bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trajectoire d’un parti islamiste dans l’Algérie post-guerre civile. Le cas du Mouvement de la Société pour la Paix (MSP)
Authors: Dupuy-Lorvin Claire
Published: July 2020

Les positionnements et choix politiques du Mouvement de la société pour la paix (MSP) depuis la suspension du processus électoral en 1992 sont conditionnés à la fois par la place que l’État algérien alloue aux partis islamistes en général, mais aussi par ses relations avec les autres formations islamistes entre stratégies de distinction et alliances. Si le principe de musharaka (participation) justifie dès l’origine la participation du MSP aux institutions en place, c’est son inclusion dans le jeu politique qui le pousse à adopter une approche davantage modérée allant jusqu’à prôner dès le milieu des années 1990, le concept de wasatiya (centrisme). Après quinze années au sein d’une coalition gouvernementale auprès de partis soutenant la présidence, le MSP rejoint l’opposition parlementaire en 2011. Ce repositionnement, loin d’être un signe de radicalisation du mouvement, peut au contraire être perçu comme un renforcement d’une approche modérée du parti qui continue à suivre les règles du jeu institutionnel tout en demandant une démocratisation du système en place.
Les salafistes marocains et la reconfiguration politico-religieuse post-2011 : fluctuation entre (dé)politisation, radicalisation et intégration
Authors: Hmimnat Salim
Published: July 2020

L’article examine les rapports complexes et fluctuants du régime marocain avec le courant salafiste depuis les années 1970 et jusqu’à l’événement du « printemps arabe ». À chaque moment de cette évolution, le régime a souvent opté pour une approche pragmatique qui vise à se servir de ce courant pour répondre à des exigences et priorités d’ordre politique et sécuritaire. Dix ans après la rupture avec les salafistes, quiétistes et djihadistes, suspectés d’être impliqués dans les attentats de Casablanca en 2003, le régime tente désormais de renouer avec eux dans une perspective de les réinsérer, ou du moins les neutraliser, dans le processus de reconfiguration politico-religieux en cours. Cette réconciliation, qui a pour objectif tactique de désamorcer les tensions sociopolitiques, de dépasser l’incertitude que connait le pays et de contrebalancer la montée au pouvoir des islamistes depuis 2011, risque néanmoins de mettre à l’épreuve certains choix idéologiques et doctrinaux qui avaient jusqu’alors encadré l’islam marocain orthodoxe post-2003.
La « modération » entre injonction et réappropriation : reconfiguration du mouvement islamiste tunisien en France (1981-2011)
Authors: Zederman Mathilde
Published: July 2020

En prenant de la distance avec les définitions substantielles de la modération des islamistes, et en replaçant la catégorie de la modération au sein d’une configuration sociopolitique et nationale particulière – celle de l’exil des islamistes tunisiens d’Ennahdha en France (1981-2011) –, l’objectif de cet article est d’éclairer le fait que les désignations et identifications d’acteurs comme « modérés » sont contextuelles, évolutives et soumises à réappropriation ou à contestation. L’article démontre que si l’étiquette de modéré a permis à l’organisation islamiste de survivre en contexte migratoire, elle n’en soulève pas moins des clivages au sein de la mouvance. En effet, la revendication de modération opère alors comme tactique de distinction et produit des effets de légitimation pour un mouvement en quête de normalisation. Celle-ci se traduit par une oscillation entre stratégies d’accommodement et stratégies de rupture vis-à-vis du régime autoritaire tunisien et vis-à-vis des autres forces de l’opposition, menant à des dissensions internes décisives pour l’évolution du mouvement.
Diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in Emergency Department: Our experience
Authors: Cristiano Elisabetta , Marcelli Vincenzo , Giannone Antonio , De Luca Stefania , Oliva Flavia , Varriale Roberto , Motta Giovanni , Paladino Fiorella , Benincasa Margherita , Perrella Marco , Ricciardiello Filippo
Published: July 2020

The Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) represents the first cause of peripheral vertigo in populations and it is determined by a displacement of otoconial fragments within the semicircular canals. Following the patient’s head movements, these fragments, moving by inertia, incorrectly stimulate the canals generating vertigo. The BPPV is diagnosable by observing the nystagmus that is generated in the patient following the Dix-Hallpike maneuver used for BPPV diagnosis of vertical semi-circular canal, and, following the supine head yaw test used for lateral semi-circular canal. Correctly identifying the origin of this specific peripheral vertigo, would mean to obtain a faster diagnosis and an immediate resolution of the problem for the patient. In this context, this study aims to identify precise training activities, aimed at the application of specific diagnostic maneuverers for algorithm decisions in support of medical personnel. The evaluations reported in this study refer to the data collected in the Emergency Department of the Cardarelli Hospital of Naples. The results obtained, over a six-month observation period, highlighted the advantages of the proposed procedures in terms of costs, time and number of BPPV diagnoses.
OSSERVAZIONI COMPARATIVE SULLA SCRITTURA EPISTOLARE DI BELLINI E DI VERDI
Authors: Bonomi Ilaria
Published: July 2020

In this note the author analyses the language of Bellini’s and Verdi’s letters, with a special reference to the poets of their operas.
Causes of hospitalization and characteristics of Algerian chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in Tizi-Ouzou: a retrospective study
Authors: Ramdani Idir , Pescatore Karen A. , Bouazza Belaid
Published: July 2020

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive chronic inflammatory disease and the third cause of death worldwide in 2016. COPD epidemiology is well documented in high-income countries where the disease is well managed. However, the disease is neglected in low-income countries and there is lack of data. Our study aims to identify COPD patients’ characteristics and hospital admission causes, and to determine disease etiologies and associated factors. A retrospective study was conducted in COPD Algerian patients using medical record data collected from January 2007 to May 2017 at the pulmonology department of the Belloua Hospital of Tizi-Ouzou city. Out of 133 hospital admissions for COPD during the study period, only 120 records were found and analyzed. Most of the admitted patients were men (96%) and the mean age was 74.29±9.56 years. Among them, 78.7% were in the GOLD stage III or IV and 9 deaths (7.5%) were recorded during the study period. Interestingly, disease severity is associated with increasing age of the patients and mortality (p=0.01 and p=0.02, respectively). Risk factors include cigarette smoking (93%), history of medical conditions (36.66%) with the most prevalent conditions being emphysema (38.63%) and asthma (27.27%), the cold season (47%), and occupational exposures (58%). Most of the admissions (64.16%) were due to acute dyspnea and 21.66 % to respiratory infections, however, 34.16 % of patients were readmitted at least one time. Comorbidities were observed in 57.5% of the patients, including cardiovascular diseases (63.76%) and diabetes (18.84%). These results show that COPD severity is associated with age and mortality. Better understanding of the COPD etiologies and the causes of hospital admission will lead to more effective management of the disease.
Rezensionen
Authors: Volkert Klaus
Published: July 2020

Rezension zu:
Ernst Seidel, Frank Loose und Edgar Bierende (Hg):
Mathematik mit Modellen
, 399 Seiten mit sehr vielen Bildern, 34.90 Euro. Tübingen, Universität Tübingen (2018) ISBN 978-3-9819182-0-5.
Biopolymer Drill-in Fluid Performance for Different Rheological Models using Statistical Characterisation
Authors: Owusu M. , Osei H.
Published: July 2020

Appropriate selection of rheological models is important for hydraulic calculations of pressure loss prediction and hole cleaning efficiency of drilling fluids. Power law, Bingham-Plastic and Herschel-Bulkley models are the conventional fluid models used in the oilfield. However, there are other models that have been proposed in literature which are under/or not utilized in the petroleum industry. The primary objective of this paper is to recommend a rheological model that best-fits the rheological behaviour of xanthan gum-based biopolymer drill-in fluids for hydraulic evaluations. Ten rheological models were evaluated in this study. These rheological models have been posed deterministically and due to the unrealistic nature have been replaced by statistical models, by adding an error (disturbance) term and making suitable assumptions about them. Rheological model parameters were estimated by least-square regression method. Models like Sisko and modified Sisko which are not conventional models in oil industry gave a good fit. Modified Sisko model which is a four parameter rheological model was selected as the best-fit model since it produced the least residual mean square of 0.61 Ibf2/100ft4. There is 95% certainty that the true best-fit curve lies within the confidence band of this function of interest. Keywords: Biopolymer; Least-Square Regression; Residual Mean Squares; Rheologram
Rainstorm Intensity–Duration–Frequency Model for Tarkwa, Ghana
Authors: Asante-Annor A. , Oti D.
Published: July 2020

Rainstorm intensity–duration–frequency relationship is a tool required for appropriate planning and designing of drainage systems. In this study, 22 years of annual peak daily rainstorm data distribution was tested to verify if it followed Lognormal, Gumbel, or Log Pearson Type III distribution. The distribution to which it belonged was used to build rainstorm intensity model of 0.5, 2, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, and 24 h durations. The findings revealed that the observed peak annual rainstorm followed Gumbel and Log Pearson Type III distributions at 0.05 significant level. Sherman rainstorm intensity model was also adopted and the parameters determined. Data generated with the Gumbel distribution function best fitted the Sherman model followed by those by log Pearson Type III. The rainstorm models developed with Sherman’s equation were recommended for use in the Tarkwa area. Keywords: Flood, Gumbel Distribution, Water Resources, Rainstorm
The Information and Communication Technology Infrastructure on University of Mines and Technology Campus and Its Impact on Library e-Resource Accessibility
Authors: Anafo P. , Akpah S. , Ofori Y.
Published: July 2020

Abstract

The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, Ghana has a Local Area Network (LAN) infrastructure whose primary purpose is to facilitate research; teaching and learning; and information dissemination. The LAN infrastructure spans a maximum distance of 1.39 square-kilometers with an upload and download speed of 115 Mb/s and interconnects the administration block, faculties, library and halls of residence with high-speed ethernet links operating over a dedicated fiber optic backbone. The LAN infrastructure with connectivity to the internet impact operations in various sections of the University, notably, the University Library. The main purpose of the library is to interact with different information networks to make available e-resource materials to students, academic and non-academic staff. This can only be achieved over a dedicated LAN infrastructure. The introduction of Library Management Systems (Koha), Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and the UMaT Space has improved library services such as document delivery, circulation and borrowing, amongst others. However, there exist a major challenge associated with library e-resources accessibility. This paper sought to investigate the factors hindering library e-resource accessibility for the purposes of improving research. Questionnaire was administered to respondents to solicit primary information while secondary information was obtained from published literature. 537 out of 855 participants responded to the questionnaire administered. 351 (65.36%) represented undergraduate students, 73 (13.60%) represented postgraduate students, 87 (16.20%), 21 (3.91%), 5 (0.93%) represented teaching, non-teaching and library staff respectively. The responses were analysed using simple tables and pie charts. Results from the study showed inadequate access points to enable users access these e-resource materials and lack of knowledge about the existence of these resources. The investigation further revealed the need for the library to embark on an information literacy drive for both students and academic staff. Various ways of improving e-resource accessibility was suggested.

 

Keywords: Local Area Network, ICT Infrastructure, Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), E-Resources
Problem-based learning and action learning in Ugandan universities
Authors: Bwegyeme Jacinta , Munene John .C. , Kagaari James , Bakunda Geoffrey
Published: July 2020

The purpose of the study was to compare the action learning approach with the traditional didactic learning and establish the relationship between problem-based learning and action learning. We employed a quasi experiment where the Marquardt Action Learning model was combined with the constructivist theories of learning. The quasi experiment was composed of three groups, namely the treatment group (action learning group), the traditional group and the control group. To stimulate participant thought and reflection, a community of practice environment was created and just-in-time classes were conducted, based on the constructive theories of learning. Although the study involved various constructivist theories, the article concentrates on problem-based learning; hence, it is quiet about other constructivist theories. The results indicate significant differences between the action learning and traditional didactic learning. Furthermore, a significant relationship between problem-based learning and action learning was established. The robust strength of reflective practice and self-directed learning in the prediction of action learning is also highlighted. The findings can be utilised to design future training programmes in universities and other workplaces in order to equip workers with reflective practice and self-directed learning skills that are vital in solving workplace problems.
Postgraduate supervision and the early stages of the doctoral journey
Authors: Baligidde Samuel Herbert
Published: July 2020

This article looks at two previous study reports on postgraduate supervision, views, and experiential as well as academic advice from other scholars. It presents the various perspectives on the central phenomenon relationship between the supervisor and the doctoral student at the initial stages of the PhD programme, arguments, suggestions and insights into the nature and substance of PhD supervision, early articulation of expectations and clarifying them; commitment to establishment of clear goals; and developing a study plan and time-table that are consistent with work. It also explores knowledge and a warm, supportive relationship; planning from the beginning, including research mapping and concept charting; proper time-management; and internalising the criteria for examination of a PhD thesis, capacity to relate the research topic to the discipline; encouraging the use of writing as a voyage of discovery. It argues that all these are vital to sustaining the momentum and completion of a PhD by research. It concludes that postgraduate supervision requires that supervisors and doctoral students by research clarify and discuss their expectations at the beginning and on a continuous and regular basis; that differences in perception or procedure can present the supervisor and the student with debilitating challenges that can impede progress and eventually fail to get the coveted PhD.
Drainage Basin of Lake Kivu in the Western Rift of East Africa and Hazards Potential
Authors: Kakonkwe C. , Rwabuhungu D. E. , Biryabarema M.
Published: July 2020

A series of ArcGIS-generated maps were applied in analysing the potential for flooding and landslide hazards within the Lake Kivu drainage basin. This study was carried out using digital elevation data of the basin. The Kivu drainage basin encompasses an area of 7,382 km2. Sediment and water supply to Lake Kivu originate mostly from its eastern hinterland. The distribution of land sliding potentiality in the drainage basin shows that the northern and the southern portions of the basin are the ones with relatively low risk of land sliding, whereas the rift shoulders are most prone to land sliding. Mass wasting on slopes has the potential to grade downstream into debris and mudflows, promoting in turn further erosion and flooding.

Keywords: drainage, Kivu, Africa, flooding, landslide, hazard
Integrating Sentinel-2 Data and PAPCAR Model to Map Water Erosion: Case of Beni Boufrah Watershed
Authors: Labbaci A , Marghadi S , Laaribya S , Moukrim S
Published: July 2020

Water erosion causes significant economic losses linked mainly to the silting up of dams and losses in soil productivity, these consequences will increase if soil and water conservation actions associated with development actions are not undertaken. The present work aims to evaluate the water erosion in the basin of the Beni Boufrah located in the Northern part of Morocco. The hierarchy of this basin in plot according to the degrees and the tendencies of the erosion was made using the qualitative PAP/CAR approach (Programme d’Actions Prioritaires/Centre d’Activités Regionales) which is based on the integration of the factors influencing the water erosion, such as the slope, lithology and/or pedology, vegetation cover and land use. This work was conducted in three stages, the first one being predictive based on the analysis of the natural factors influencing water erosion and the processing of databases of developed maps. The second so-called descriptive stage is based on the mapping of different forms and processes of soil loss that occur in the study area. The last step, it allows the integration and the combination of the results of the two previous steps. Its purpose is to provide a precise cartographic product that reflects the reality of the state of soil degradation and the future evolution of erosion. The consolidated erosion map shows that more than half of the basin area (53%) is affected by medium-level erosion, 13% is affected by high erosion level, and 15 % is affected by low-level water erosion. Low-intensity erosion occurs along the river in areas where the slope and lithology favour runoff. The trend map is the final result of the integration phase, it describes erosion trends in the different parts of the basin and is, therefore, a tool to guide decisions on land use planning and tillage methods to limit the risk of water erosion in the basin.

Keywords: Oued Beni Boufrah, water erosion, PAP/CAR, erosive states, erosion trend.
Cadastral Information and Erosion Modeling for Monitoring Gullies in Mpazi Catchment Area, Kigali City
Authors: Bizimana, J.P , Ndahigwa E
Published: July 2020

Due to the lack of sediment load monitoring system, erosion model calibration is challenging in Rwanda. Based on the reports of parcels boundaries corrections from Rwanda Land Management and Use Authority, there are quite consistent losses of land due to gullies development in Mpazi River watershed. This study analysed the possibility of integrating cadastral information, erosion and hydrological modelling data for identifying potential gullies development in hilly urban area of Mpazi catchment. The orthophoto of 2008 coupled with ancillary data were used to delineate the shifts of parcel boundaries from 2012 to 2016. Hydrological modelling based on DEM was also applied to investigate geo-physical characteristics and potential gullies. The differential GPS was used to locate the potential gullies that were then uploaded into GIS. Gullies intersecting with rectified parcels boundary were measured with tape meter. The gully length was measured using hydrological modelling tools and GPS coordinates captured during the field verification. The results showed that gully system expanded from 7.5 to 20 meters while neighboring parcels shift was between 3 and 12.5 meters. The highest average rate of soil loss ranged between 100 and 150 tons/ha/year. The research findings from this study are salient for policy- and decision-makers who need to review the current land and environment policies and laws so that gully erosion can be assigned appropriate mitigation measures for ecologically sustainable management of hilly urban landscapes within Kigali City. More periodic data are required to feed the model and validating this approach brings the government institutions’ responsibility. The developed methodology has the potential to quantify the gully systems in urban context with scarce hydrological, soil and geomorphological data availability and where urban planning and environmental protection are constrained by limited financial and human resources.

Keywords: Cadastral Maintenance Data, Erosion Modelling, Gully, Urban Areas
Spatial Modelling of Common Chimpanzees’ (Pan troglodytes schweinifurthii) Ecological Niche in the Western Part of Rwanda
Authors: Tuyishimire J , Nsengiyumva P , Rwanyiziri G , Mugabowindekwe M
Published: July 2020

The Western Part of Rwanda is a mountainous region that hosts two important forest parks namely the Nyungwe National Park (NNP) and Gishwati-Mukura National Park (GMNP). The two parks which are located in the Albertine Rift region are known for their high endemism and harbour several endangered plant and animal species, including particularly the Common Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinifurthii). However, these forests are facing threats including mainly habitat loss, aggravated by climate change both of which are continuously having direct and indirect effects to the Chimpanzees. While conservation of chimpanzees appears critical, there is a need to deeply understand the dynamics of their habitat. This study aimed at modelling the ecological niche of common chimpanzee by integrating species distribution data and environmental layers. Species location data collected in both NNP and GMNP were integrated with environmental variables (temperature, precipitation, altitude, and land cover) through Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt), and Generic Algorithm for Rule-based Prediction (GARP) Models. The results of both models showed that chimpanzees prefer the Southern and the Northern parts of the study area (0.5 < p < 0.87), which is characterised by high altitude, low temperature, and intensive rainfall. It was also noted that MaxEnt predictions were more accurate compared to the GARP’s. MaxEnt predictions showed that 35% (2058.61 ha) of the Western Province are suitable for chimpanzees, while GARP predicted that only 24% (1411.62 ha) are suitable. Furthermore, the study found that the high precipitation, annual and maximum precipitations, and food availability are the most determinants of chimpanzees' habitat. The land use in the Western Province has made the central part less suitable to chimpanzees and therefore, this study recommends that special efforts for the conservation of Common chimpanzees in Rwanda should be concentrated in the Southern Part (around NNP) Nyungwe National Park (main forest and Cyamudongo fragment) and the northern Part (around GMNP)

Keywords: Spatial Modelling, Common Chimpanzee, Ecological Niche, Nyungwe National Park, Gishwati-Mukura National Park, Rwanda.
Association between levator ani muscle avulsions and technique of vacuum extraction – a prospective exploratory study
Authors: Kimmich Nina , Birri Jana , Zimmermann Roland , Kreft Martina
Published: July 2020

AIMS OF THE STUDY
Trauma of the levator ani muscle in the form of partial or complete avulsions is common after vaginal births, especially after vaginal-operative births. As there is little information available regarding associations between the technique of vaginal-operative births and levator ani muscle trauma, we aimed to evaluate the association between the process of vacuum extraction and the occurrence of levator ani muscle trauma.

METHODS
As part of a prospective cohort study at the University Hospital of Zurich between March 2017 and April 2019, we sub-analysed vacuum extractions in nulliparous women with singletons in vertex presentation ≥36+0 gestational weeks. We evaluated their pelvic floor for partial and complete levator ani muscle avulsions using translabial ultrasound 6–10 weeks postpartum and calculated the association of the vacuum procedure itself, along with other fetal, maternal and obstetrical characteristics, with levator ani muscle trauma.

RESULTS
Levator ani muscle trauma was present in 17 (34.7%) out of 49 women. There were no associations between the different factors evaluated and levator ani muscle trauma in vacuum-assisted births, except that the levator ani muscle group had insufficient uterine contractions.

CONCLUSIONS
We found no fetal, maternal or obstetrical characteristics or parameters of vacuum technique that were associated with the occurrence of levator ani muscle trauma after vacuum extraction, except for insufficient uterine contractions. Nevertheless, there might be influencing factors that have not yet been evaluated, or are not easily accessible for evaluation, like the adaptations of the fetus inside the birth canal and within the hiatus of the levator ani muscle, and the adaptations of the birth canal to the fetus passing through. This should be the subject of further research with a sample size adequately powered to answer this question properly. (Trial registration number: BASEC-Nr.2016-00908.)
Peer Feedback In Language Teacher Training: Students’ Pedagogic Approaches and Interpersonal Positioning
Authors: Ofte Ingunn , Duggan Jennifer
Published: July 2020

Although peer feedback is increasingly used in English as a foreign language (EFL) courses within European higher education (HE), little research has been carried out to explore its efficacy within specific sociocultural contexts outside of the Asia-Pacific region, and much of the research into peer feedback has been limited to English as a second language (ESL) rather than EFL contexts. Students’ positioning of themselves relative to the authors of the texts they review and relative to the texts themselves reveals significant information about how culture and context impact their approach to peer feedback. This study examined 118 written peer response texts of first- and second-year undergraduate EFL teachers in training in a Norwegian HE institution, aiming to investigate both students’ pedagogic approaches to providing feedback on peer texts and the interpersonal stances they took toward each other while providing feedback. It found that students who take a collaborative approach to giving feedback are more likely to position themselves as professionals, while those who approach their peers’ texts in a prescriptive manner are more likely to view themselves as underqualified. Overall, the responses analysed indicated a preference for collectivist rather than individualistic approaches to peer response, perhaps resulting from low power distances between the students or the Nordic educational context.
READING NOVELS IN THE RENEWED MIDDLE GRADES ENGLISH CLASSROOM:
Authors: Hanssen Jessica Allen
Published: July 2020

Young adult fiction; interpretative community; critical reading; teacher autonomy; ENG01-04
Recuperación de la noción de ley natural frente al relativismo moral de occidente
Authors: Martínez Guisasola José Manuel
Published: July 2020

En el presente artículo se pretende hacer un acercamiento a la noción de ley natural con la intención de recuperarla como instancia objetiva que permita fundamentar el comportamiento ético en sociedades plurales como la de occidente, en la que conviven diversas mentalidades, distintos credos y un variado conjunto de sistemas axiológicos. Para ello se realiza un recorrido histórico que permita conocer tanto su génesis como su desarrollo para así entender las críticas que se han levantado contra ella. Terminamos exponiendo una nueva visión de ley natural que sea acorde con el carácter histórico del hombre.
Explorando conceitos estatísticos por meio da Modelagem Matemática: uma proposta para a Educação do Campo
Authors: Vargas Andressa Franco , Bisognin Eleni
Published: July 2020

O presente artigo buscou discutir em que medida questões culturais aliadas à Modelagem Matemática podem contribuir e proporcionar aos alunos uma Aprendizagem Significativa. Participaram da pesquisa alunos do Ensino Fundamental de uma escola do campo do interior do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram realizadas intervenções no ambiente escolar e observações em sala de aula com o propósito de verificar os subsunçores dos alunos, fazer um levantamento de dados e analisar o contexto escolar. Esse levantamento possibilitou elencar três temáticas de interesse dos alunos: Pecuária, Pesca e Agricultura. Neste trabalho apresentamos uma atividade que aborda a temática Pesca como base para estudo de conceitos estatísticos e analisamos se a aprendizagem desses conceitos foi significativa. Da análise dos resultados foi possível inferir que a aprendizagem se torna significativa quando inserimos questões culturais como tema central, pois estas podem fundamentar a aprendizagem de novos conceitos; fortalecer e significar conceitos já conhecidos.
Palavras-chave: Modelagem Matemática. Educação do Campo. Educação Matemática.
An Overview About Rare Diseases in Saudi Arabia and Reimbursement of Orphan Drugs
Authors: F. Alsaqa’by Mai , Ibrahim Nagwa
Published: July 2020

Due to the high cost of specialty drugs and the increasing pressure on health care budget, the use of economic evaluation in reimbursement decisions has become a necessity. Although economic evaluation methods have been established internationally, doubts have been raised about their use in orphan drugs. In the absence of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) agencies in the Arab world, it is almost impossible to make conscious decisions in regard funding drugs used not only in rare conditions but in all disease areas. The use of economic evaluation is increasingly growing and comparable to regulatory bodies role especially in the context of the current national transformation program 2020 and the Saudi vision 2030. One of the vision objectives is to optimize the utilization of available resources and the efficiency of government spending, which is going to be impossible to achieve with the current practice. Challenges accompanied by reimbursement decisions are and always will be a limitation in the absence of a proper framework that addresses limitation with the use of traditional methods in assessing the value of orphan and non-orphan drugs. This paper mentions the prevalence of rare conditions in Saudi Arabia, discusses the current reimbursements methods and policies in other countries, explore challenges with the use of typical methods of economic evaluation used in different countries, and provide a potential solution to tackle some of the limitations in funding rare conditions.
An assessment of the impact of a nation-wide lockdown on air pollution – a remote sensing perspective over India
Authors: Pathakoti Mahesh , Muppalla Aarathi , Hazra Sayan , Dangeti Mahalakshmi , Shekhar Raja , Jella Srinivasulu , Mullapudi Sesha Sai , Andugulapati Prasad , Vijayasundaram Uma
Published: July 2020

Abstract. The nation-wide lockdown imposed over India from 25th March 2020 onwards, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, placed severe restrictions upon the industrial and transport sectors, which together form a significant chunk of anthropogenic emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere. Atmospheric concentrations of Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO) and aerosol optical depth (AOD) for lockdown and pre-lockdown periods were investigated with observations from Aura/OMI, Terra/MOPITT, Sentinel-5p/TROPOMI and Aqua-Terra/MODIS satellite sensors. Mean NO2 levels over India during the lockdown period showed a dip of 17 % as compared to pre-lockdown period and a decrease of 18 % against the 5-year average. Over New Delhi in particular, there was a sharp decrease of 62 % in NO2 levels as compared to 2019 and a decline by 54 % relative to the preceding 5-year period (2015–2019). Aerosol levels reduced over the country by ~ 24 % from the 5-year mean levels, with a marked reduction over the Indo-Gangetic plains region. An increase in CO levels was noticeable, probably due to its longer life-time as compared to NO2 and aerosols. This study also reports the rate of change of NO2, CO and AOD, indicating increase/decrease in pollutant emissions over the different states of India.
A data-model approach to interpreting speleothem oxygen isotope records from monsoon regions on orbital timescales
Authors: Parker Sarah E. , Harrison Sandy P. , Comas-Bru Laia , Kaushal Nikita , LeGrande Allegra N. , Werner Martin
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Reconstruction of past changes in monsoon climate from speleothem oxygen isotope (δ18O) records is complex because δ18O signals can be influenced by multiple factors including changes in precipitation, precipitation recycling over land, temperature at the moisture source and changes in the moisture source region and transport pathway. Here, we analyse > 150 speleothem records from version 2 of the Speleothem Isotopes Synthesis and Analysis (SISAL) database to produce composite regional trends in δ18O in monsoon regions; compositing minimises the influence of site-specific karst and cave processes that can influence individual site records. We compare speleothem δ18O observations with isotope-enabled climate model simulations to investigate the specific climatic factors causing these regional trends. We focus on differences in δ18O signals between interglacial (mid-Holocene and Last Interglacial) and glacial (Last Glacial Maximum) states, and on δ18O evolution through the Holocene. Differences in speleothem δ18O between the mid-Holocene and Last Interglacial in the East Asian and Indian monsoons are small, despite the larger summer insolation values during the Last Interglacial. Last Glacial Maximum δ18O values are significantly less negative than interglacial values. Comparison with simulated glacial-interglacial δ18O shows that changes are principally driven by global shifts in temperature and regional precipitation. Holocene speleothem δ18O records show distinct and coherent regional trends. Trends are similar to summer insolation in India, China and southwestern South America, but different in the Indonesian-Australian region. Redundancy analysis shows that 37 % of Holocene variability can be accounted for by latitude and longitude, supporting the differentiation of records into individual monsoon regions. Regression analysis of simulated precipitation δ18O and climate variables show that global Holocene monsoon δ18O trends are driven by changes in precipitation, atmospheric circulation and (to a lesser extent) source area temperature, whilst precipitation recycling is non-significant. However, there are differences in regional scale mechanisms; there are clear relationships between changes in precipitation and in δ18O for India, southwestern South America and the Indonesian-Australian regions, but not for the East Asian monsoon. Changes in atmospheric circulation contributes to δ18O trends in the East Asian, Indian and Indonesian-Australian monsoons, and a weak source area temperature effect is observed over southern and central America and Asia. Precipitation recycling is influential in southwestern South America and southern Africa. Overall, our analyses show that it is possible to differentiate the impacts of specific climatic mechanisms influencing precipitation δ18O and use this analysis to interpret changes in speleothem δ18O.
Effect of mesoscale eddy on thermocline depth over the global ocean:
deepen and uplift
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Chen Ge
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Existing studies on the vertical displacement of thermoclines driven by mesoscale eddies are insufficient and rare. Using 17-year Argo dataset in combination with satellite altimetry, the deepening and uplifting of the depth of thermocline (DTC) by anticyclonic (AE) or cyclonic eddies (CE), respectively, were estimated globally. DTC shifts exhibited multiple geographic and seasonal trends, with the largest magnitude shifts occurring in March and September in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, respectively. The more pronounced DTC shifts were concentrated in the midlatitudes, and the largest DTC displacements appeared along the western boundaries of strong current systems, with peak shifts of more than 40 m. In general, eddy-induced DTC shifts were linearly correlated with eddy radius and amplitude, suggesting that high intensity eddies induced larger DTC displacements. Finally, a normalized analysis revealed a monopole (ring) structure of DTC ringing the eddy center inside the AE (CE). The forces of AE and CE on the DTC were different, seen in the stronger deepening at the center of the AE (~ 30 m) than the uplifting at the center of the CE (~ 20 m). One possible mechanism for this asymmetry could stem from differential current shears in the thermoclines in AE and CE.
Evolução clínica dos indicadores de resultados de enfermagem em pacientes com padrão respiratório ineficaz
Authors: Barreto Luciana Nabinger Menna , Silva Marcos Barragan da , Nomura Aline Tsuma Gaedke , Lucena Amália de Fátima , Almeida Miriam de Abreu
Published: July 2020

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a evolução clínica dos indicadores de resultados de enfermagem em pacientes com Padrão Respiratório Ineficaz, através da Nursing Outcomes Classification. Trata-se de estudo longitudinal prospectivo realizado em hospital universitário, com 25 pacientes com doenças pulmonares, que foram acompanhados durante um período de três dias ou até alta hospitalar. Os indicadores dos resultados de enfermagem Estado Respiratório, Nível de Fadiga e Nível de Ansiedade foram avaliados utilizando técnicas propedêuticas de avaliação respiratória e escala Likert de cinco pontos, conforme a Nursing Outcomes Classification. Quando agrupadas as médias de todos os indicadores, observou-se evolução de melhora significativa na média (p<0,001), na comparação entre a primeira e última avaliação, destacando-se Tosse (p=0,017) e Ansiedade verbalizada (p=0,013). A Dispneia obteve melhora estatisticamente significativa (p=0,017) na avaliação diária. Observou-se que a Nursing Outcomes Classification possibilita mensurar a evolução clínica dos resultados dos pacientes, bem como o grau de comprometimento do padrão respiratório.

Descritores: Diagnóstico de Enfermagem; Sistema Respiratório; Avaliação de Resultados em Cuidados de Saúde.
The Academic Writing Challenges Faced by Saudi Students Studying at a University in New Zealand
Authors: Ankawi Ayman
Published: July 2020

This study focused on academic writing challenges and its requirements, explored student perceptions and suggested ways in which their needs could be better met. The current study examined the obstacles of academic writing facing Saudi students in a New Zealand university. The study adopted a qualitative method approach in which 10 volunteer students were interviewed to learn their views and perceptions of academic writing skills in English and the questionnaire was used to collect students' demographic information. Also, what can be done to better prepare students for academic study at English medium universities. The students' attitude was not positive, which elicited the problem. The results revealed that the attitude of Saudi students towards learning and using the English language was not positive due to problems in teaching English, which resulted in students not prepared for the requirements of studying through the English language. It is also hoped that the results and recommendations issued by this study will benefit Saudi students, government departments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as English medium universities that accept students.
Drinking Age Policy Implementation and the Practice of Federal Law in the United States
Authors: Ihemeje Godwin , Ihemeje Grace
Published: July 2020

Readjusting a standardized national drinking age, particularly in the area of implementation has been a matter of concern to scholars of political science and health sciences. It is instructive to note that the national legal drinking age of 21 years is a primary alcohol-control policy initiated and implemented since 1985 in the United States. Different groups have raised public debate on the minimum drinking age and proposed reducing it to 18 years. However, recent trends in alcohol drinking and related consequences, comparative effect of the minimum legal drinking ages of 21 years and 18 years, research on drinking among  high school and college students related to minimum legal drinking age are critically reviewed, using secondary data sources. This article therefore seeks to support the minimum drinking age of 21 years, rather than lowering it to 18 years. Concerted interventional roles are essential by the assistance of non-governmental organizations, public health experts, legal experts, and public office holders; for the purpose of influencing healthy decisions about alcohol among the early adults and thereby leading to reduction in alcohol consumption and its negative impacts.
Bringing Network Governance into the field of Violence and Integrity in Sports
Authors: Stevens Vidar , Vertommen Tine
Published: July 2020

To date, the knowledge base on the topic of violence and integrity in sports is limited, the scientific community is relatively small, and the research field is in its infancy. The few researchers have predominantly been working in silos, and, consequently, initial studies have examined this issue with a singular discipline approach. Violence in sport is a multifaceted issue that has physical, psychological, social and organizational consequences. The fragmentation of the research efforts in this area thus far has limited the possibility of formulating a clear, collaborative and international agenda for future research. In this article, we aim to build on previous research, but also borrow insights from public administration, to pave the way for new studies that look from a governance perspective at policy strategies for the prevention of interpersonal violence against young athletes in sports. Particularly, we aim, in line with the Dutch policy development, to discuss the value of local networks, and its challenges, as vehicles of collaboration and prevention.
Participación de los actores universitarios en el territorio
Authors: Villegas Crisálida , Carmona Dilcar
Published: July 2020

La Universidad, creada por y para el servicio de la sociedad, debe ser factor de desarrollo del país. En tal sentido, el artículo analiza la participación de los actores universitarios en el territorio, desde la experiencia de la Universidad Politécnica Territorial en Venezuela. Es producto de una investigación basada en fuentes mixtas: documentales y de campo referida a la aplicación de un cuestionario a una muestra intencional de 103 egresados de la carrera de Ingeniera; yrealización de entrevistas a nueve informantes: tres docentes-directivos universitarios, tres empresarios y tres vecinos. De la información cuantitativa se encontró que el 60.7% de los egresados tienen condiciones laborales adecuadas; el 49.7% realizan acciones de intervención socioeconómica en el territorioy solo el 46.4% considera que hay vinculación universidad-territorio. La información cualitativa corrobora la débil participación de los egresados de la universidad en el territorio; así como la frágil vinculación de la universidad, el sector productivo y la comunidad. Lo que amerita una universidad que emprenda acciones tendentes a la formación de profesionales integrales que contribuyan al desarrollo territorial.
Recursos y obstáculos para la autorrealización de estudiantes de colegios nocturnos costarricenses
Authors: Arguedas Negrini Irma
Published: July 2020

El estudio cualitativo tuvo como propósito analizar los factores que conducen a que personas adultas jóvenes consideren sus vidas autorrealizadas, a fin de dirigir esfuerzos en la Orientación hacia la promoción del desarrollo integral en esa etapa de la vida. Para ello se realizó la descripción de recursos y obstáculos en la construcción de dichos factores; se aplicó el método fenomenológico y se utilizó el análisis temático. La investigación se llevó a cabo con veintiún estudiantes de dos colegios nocturnos de Costa Rica, mediante entrevistas individuales y grupos focales.
The importance of disease incidence rate on performance of GBLUP, threshold BayesA and machine learning methods in original and imputed data set
Authors: Naderi Yousef , Sadeghi Saadat
Published: July 2020

Aim of study: To predict genomic accuracy of binary traits considering different rates of disease incidence.Area of study: SimulationMaterial and methods: Two machine learning algorithms including Boosting and Random Forest (RF) as well as threshold BayesA (TBA) and genomic BLUP (GBLUP) were employed. The predictive ability methods were evaluated for different genomic architectures using imputed (i.e. 2.5K, 12.5K and 25K panels) and their original 50K genotypes. We evaluated the three strategies with different rates of disease incidence (including 16%, 50% and 84% threshold points) and their effects on genomic prediction accuracy.Main results: Genotype imputation performed poorly to estimate the predictive ability of GBLUP, RF, Boosting and TBA methods when using the low-density single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) chip in low linkage disequilibrium (LD) scenarios. The highest predictive ability, when the rate of disease incidence into the training set was 16%, belonged to GBLUP, RF, Boosting and TBA methods. Across different genomic architectures, the Boosting method performed better than TBA, GBLUP and RF methods for all scenarios and proportions of the marker sets imputed. Regarding the changes, the RF resulted in a further reduction compared to Boosting, TBA and GBLUP, especially when the applied data set contained 2.5K panels of the imputed genotypes.Research highlights: Generally, considering high sensitivity of methods to imputation errors, the application of imputed genotypes using RF method should be carefully evaluated.
The effectiveness of latex wound model on wound dressing skill of the nursing students
Authors: Bannaasan Benyaporn
Published: July 2020

Wound dressing is a skill which must be able to be performed by all nurses. If the practical ability of a nurse is weak, it will affect the quality of patient care. The objective of this research is to study the effectiveness of the latex wound model for wound dressing training on wound dressing skills of the nursing student. The latex wound model is a device used in practice which is made from rubber. The samples are the 60 second-year nursing students. Simple random sampling was applied in the selection of samples to be an experimental group and a control group for 30 persons per group. The latex wound model was provided to the experimental group for wound dressing skill training at the dormitory for a seven day period. A personal data questionnaire, wet dressing skill evaluation form, and dry dressing skill evaluation form were used for data collection. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test and Mann-Whitney U Test. The results indicated that: 1) the mean score of wet dressing skill and dry dressing skill after the intervention were significantly higher than before the intervention (p < .05); 2) the mean score of wet dressing skill and dry dressing skill of the experimental group were higher than that of the control group, who was given the explanation of research procedures and the use of latex wound model, at statistical significance (p < .05). The findings imply that the use of the latex wound model for wound dressing training could enhance the wound dressing practical skill of the nursing students.