bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endocrine Tests and/or Testicular Volume are Not Predictive of Successful Sperm Retrieval by Conventional Multiple Testicular Sperm Extraction in Nonobstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Le Minh Tam , Nguyen Thi Thanh Tam , Nguyen Dac Nguyen , Tran Thi Nhu Quynh , Nguyen Vu Quoc Huy
Published: December 2020

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the role of presurgical markers in the prediction of sperm retrieval by conventional Multiple Testicular Sperm Extraction in infertile Vietnamese men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA).

Patients and Methods: Retrospective descriptive analysis of 136 infertile men with azoospermia, examined from August 2014 to July 2018. Patients underwent stepwise surgical sperm retrieval via percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration, testicular sperm aspiration, then conventional multiple testicular sperm extraction in up to three locations, and procedures stopped as soon as sperm were detected. Factors were analyzed to determine the prediction of the likelihood of successful sperm retrieval, in men with NOA.

Results: The overall success rate of sperm retrieval in men with azoospermia was 49.3%, but it was only 18.4% in NOA group. The difference in testicular volume between men with successful sperm retrieval and unsuccessful sperm retrieval was not statistically significant in NOA group (5.68 ± 2.37 vs. 4.46 ± 2.83, p = 0.138). The differences in the endocrine tests between the two groups were also not significant in terms of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone (p [Formula: see text] 0.05). Multivariable analysis of predictive factors of sperm retrieval in NOA groups found no significant difference, except testicular density (p = 0.015).

Conclusions: In infertile men with NOA, neither an endocrine test nor testicular volume should be used for predicting the results of surgical sperm retrieval by conventional multiple testicular sperm extraction.
The Humboldt Cup
Authors: de Oliveira Martins Luiza Prado
Published: December 2020

This forum focuses on the topic of coloniality, investigating the ways in which it shapes the contemporary world. We will look at how colonial structures of power shape the development of new technologies, as well as emergent manifestations of anti-colonial resistance.
--- Luiza Prado de Oliveira Martins, Editor
Evaluation of Antidiabetic Activity of Ajuga integrifolia (Lamiaceae) Root Extract and Solvent Fractions in Mice
Authors: Alene Molalegn , Abdelwuhab Mohammedbrhan , Belay Assefa , Yazie Taklo Simeneh
Published: December 2020

Traditional healers and the community have used the roots of Ajuga integrifolia for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. It is not scientifically validated for its antidiabetic activity previously. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the hypoglycemic and antidiabetic activity of Ajuga integrifolia. Ajuga integrifolia roots’ crude extract and solvent fractions were prepared. The doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg of crude root extract and solvent fractions were used on normoglycemic, oral glucose loaded, and streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice models to determine their hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activities. The crude extract and solvent fractions’ effect on bodyweight was also evaluated on streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice. A standard drug in all cases was glibenclamide (5 mg/kg), and the blood glucose level was measured by using a glucose meter. Data analysis was performed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. One‐way analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s post hoc multiple comparison test was used to analyze the data. p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Hydromethanolic crude extract and its aqueous fraction of Ajuga integrifolia root showed a considerable blood glucose lowering activity at all doses. Both the repeated daily doses of the crude extract and the repeated daily doses of the aqueous fraction of Ajuga integrifolia root extract revealed the similar effect in lowering the fasting blood glucose level in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice models. It was also found that groups treated with the Ajuga integrifolia at the doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg showed significant (p < 0.05) bodyweight improvement at the 14th day of treatment compared to the respective baseline bodyweight, and the diabetic control group showed significant (p < 0.01) reduction in bodyweight at the 14th day compared to the baseline. This study revealed that crude extract and solvent fractions of Ajuga integrifolia root possess significant antidiabetic activity which supports its traditional use for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Influence of Blade Profiles on Plastic Centrifugal Pump Performance
Authors: Zhang Hui , Tang Lingfeng , Zhao Yongtao
Published: December 2020

To study the influence of blade profiles of the plastic centrifugal pump on pump performance, the impeller blade profiles were designed and drawn by the single arc method, double arc method, logarithmic spiral method, and B‐spline curve method, respectively, with the known structural parameters.The shape and size of four profiles were drawn, and two‐dimensional models and three‐dimensional models of four impellers and volute were completed, respectively. The impeller models were printed by 3D printing technology, and the performance experiments of the plastic centrifugal pump were carried out. The numerical simulation of the internal flow field was performed. From the contours of the velocity and pressure, the vapor volume fraction distribution, and fluid‐structure interaction analysis of impellers, the impeller drawn by the logarithmic spiral method was better than others. The optimization of the logarithmic spiral method was completed. The impeller inlet and outlet diameters (D1 and D2) and impeller inlet and outlet installation angles (β1 and β2) were taken as control variables, and the total power loss and the minimum NPSHr of the pump were taken as the objective functions. The optimization results were that D1 = 58 mm and D2 = 162 mm and β1 = 17° and β2 = 31°. The hydraulic efficiency was increased by 1.68%.
Analysis of Hydraulic Fracture Propagation Using a Mixed Mode and a Uniaxial Strain Model considering Geomechanical Properties in a Naturally Fractured Shale Reservoir
Authors: Jang Youngho , Park Gayoung , Kwon Seoyoon , Min Baehyun
Published: December 2020

This study proposes a hydraulic fracture propagation model with a mixed mode comprising opening and sliding modes to describe a complex fracture network in a naturally fractured shale gas formation. We combine the fracture propagation model with the mixed mode and the uniaxial strain model with tectonic impacts to calculate the stress distribution using geomechanical properties. A discrete fracture network is employed to realize the fracture network composed of natural and hydraulic fractures. We compare the fracture propagation behaviours of three cases representing the Barnett, Marcellus, and Eagle Ford shale gas formations. Sensitivity analysis is performed to investigate the effects of the geomechanical properties of the reservoir on the sliding mode’s contribution to the mixed mode. The numerical results highlight the significance of the mixed mode for the accurate assessment of fracture propagation behaviours in shale gas formations with high brittleness.
The Prevalence, Predictors, and In-Hospital Mortality of Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis Admitted at St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia, Ghana
Authors: Duah Amoako , Agyei-Nkansah Adwoa , Osei-Poku Foster , Duah Francisca , Ampofo-Boobi Daniel , Peprah Bright
Published: December 2020

Background. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the most debilitating complications of cirrhosis leading to death. Decrease in HE mortality and recurrence has been linked with timely identification and early treatment. There is a need to document the burden, predictors, and treatment outcomes of HE in an adult population with liver cirrhosis in our setting as only reports from resource-endowed countries abound in the literature. This study aimed therefore to determine the prevalence, predictors, and treatment outcomes of patients with liver cirrhosis admitted at St. Dominic Hospital (SDH) in Akwatia, Ghana. Materials and Methods. A prospective study was conducted involving one hundred and sixty-seven (167) patients admitted at the medical wards in SDH with liver cirrhosis from January 1st, 2018, to March 24th, 2020. The demographic and clinical features of the patients were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Biochemical, haematological, and abdominal ultrasound scans were done for all patients. Patients were then followed up until discharge or death. Results. There were 109 (65.3%) males out of the 167 patients with a mean age of 45.8 and 47.5 years for those with and without HE, respectively. The prevalence of HE was 31.7% (53/167). Out of 53 participants with HE, 75.5% (40/53) died. There was a strong association between HE and death (

p
<
0.001

). The major precipitating factor of HE was infection (64.2%). Severe ascites (OR = 0.009) were clinical feature independently associated with HE, whereas high creatinine (OR = 0.987), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (OR = 1.199), Child–Pugh score (CPS) (OR = 5.899), and low platelets (OR = 0.992) were the laboratory parameters and scores independently predictive of HE. Conclusion. HE was common among patients with liver cirrhosis admitted at SDH with high in-patient mortality. The commonest precipitating factor for HE was infection(s). Severe ascites, low platelet count, high creatinine, BUN, and CPS were independent predictors of HE.
The Approach to Carbon Emission Quotas of Road Transportation: A Carbon Emission Intensity Perspective
Authors: Li Xiao , Gao Li , Liu Jintao
Published: December 2020

Carbon trading is an effective measure for the road transportation to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Carbon emission quotas are the primary concern to ensuring the efficiency of carbon trading. However, the existing studies have mostly focused on carbon emission quotas in different regions, i.e., countries and provinces. Few literature studies simulate carbon quota allocation in the road transportation. A novel approach from the perspective of carbon emission intensity of vehicle is proposed, on the basis of data envelopment analysis (DEA) model. Unlike other studies, the idea of allocation of baseline excitation is introduced and the intensity is included in the model as the baseline. Firstly, the Delphi method is employed to select input and output indicators. Secondly, carbon emission intensity is determined by the cumulative distribution function (CDF). Furthermore, the carbon emission quotas in road transportation in 30 provinces of China are used to validate the model. The results show that (1) the carbon emission intensity of commercial trucks and buses in China’s road transport industry is 75.04 g/t·km and 13.12 g/p·km, respectively; (2) the provinces of Shanghai, Guangdong, and Xinjiang have the greatest carbon reduction potential and Henan, Hunan, and Anhui have the largest increase in emission quotas; (3) compared with traditional “history responsibility” and “baseline” methods, the proposed approach increases allocation efficiency by 19% and 14%, respectively; and (4) the approach can make the carbon emission quotas play the role of incentive while taking fairness into account and can more effectively promote the implementation of carbon trading system in road transportation.
Human Theta Burst Stimulation Combined with Subsequent Electroacupuncture Increases Corticospinal Excitability
Authors: Li Jiali , Ren Meng , Wang Wenjing , Xu Shutian , Zhang Sicong , Li Yuanli , Shan Chunlei
Published: December 2020

Objective. Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) is a widely used noninvasive brain stimulation for the facilitation of corticospinal excitability (CSE). Previous studies have shown that acupuncture applied to acupoints associated with motor function in healthy people can reduce the amplitude of the motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs), which reflects the inhibition of CSE. In our work, we wanted to test whether the combination of iTBS and electroacupuncture (EA) would have different effects on CSE in humans. Methods. A single‐blind sham‐controlled crossover design study was conducted on 20 healthy subjects. Subjects received 20 minutes’ sham or real EA stimulation immediately after sham or real iTBS. MEPs, short‐interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), intracortical facilitation (ICF), cortical silent period (CSP), and central motor conduction time (CMCT) were recorded before each trial, and immediately, 20 minutes, and 40 minutes after the end of stimulation. Results. In the sham iTBS group, EA produced a reduction in MEPs amplitude, lasting approximately 40 minutes, while in the real iTBS group, EA significantly increased MEPs amplitude beyond 40 minutes after the end of stimulation. In sham EA group, the recorded MEPs amplitude showed no significant trend over time compared to baseline. Among all experiments, there were no significant changes in SICI, ICF, CSP, CMCT, etc. Conclusion. These data indicate that immediate application of EA after iTBS significantly increased corticospinal excitability. This trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration no. ChiCTR1900025348).
Evaluation of Road Service Performance Based on Human Perception of Vibration While Driving Vehicle
Authors: Shi Wenbo , Li Ming , Guo Jingxuan , Zhai Kaixuan
Published: December 2020

Road surface monitoring is a significant issue in providing smooth road infrastructure for vehicles, and the key to road condition monitoring is to detect road potholes that affect driving comfort and transportation safety. This paper presents a simple, efficient, and accurate way to evaluate road service performance based on the acquisition of road vibration data by vibration sensors installed in vehicles. Inspired by the discrete fast Fourier transform, the vibration acceleration is processed, and the RMS value of vibration acceleration at 1/2 octave is calculated, after which the road vibration level is calculated. The vibration level is optimized according to the human body’s sensitivity to different frequencies of vibration, resulting in road service performance indicators that can reflect the human body’s real feelings. According to the road service performance index values on the road grading, combined with GPS data on the electronic map color block labeling, the results obtained for the road condition warning, road maintenance, driver route selection have an important significance.
Effects of Water and scCO2 Injection on the Mechanical Properties of Granite at High Temperatures
Authors: Shen Nao , Zhang Qiang , Li Xiaochun , Bai Bing , Hu Haixiang
Published: December 2020

Geothermal energy is an important resource to substitute for traditional fossil fuels. The mechanical properties of reservoir rock under the conditions of water and scCO2 injection at different temperatures are crucial for the safety of Enhanced Geothermal Systems. However, the effects of working fluid on the mechanical properties of granite at in situ temperatures are still rarely reported. To reveal the impact mechanisms, conventional triaxial compression experiments were conducted on granite specimens with different confining pressures (2–20 MPa), different pore fluid (10 MPa water or CO2), and different temperatures (25–150°C) in the present study. SEM analyses were applied to the specimens to determine failure surface morphologies after the experiments. The experimental results show that the effective confining pressure, pore fluid, and temperature have significant effects on the strength of granite specimens. The strength of granite increases with the increase of effective confining pressure, with similar granite strength under the same effective confining pressure (dry, water, and CO2). Temperature strengthening of granite is limited by high confining pressure (∼15 MPa). Under the effective confining pressure of 5 MPa, temperature weakening occurs on granite specimens when temperature is higher than 90°C. There is fluid diffusion in the specimens during compression. The higher viscosity of water may cause a temporary decrease in effective confining pressure, which may increase the strength of granite. The growth or formation of cracks is mainly observed in quartz and feldspar grains without short‐term chemical effects. More visible cracks are observed on the specimens and more volume of fluid is injected under CO2 injection conditions, which may be beneficial to increase the permeability of geothermal reservoir.
New Horizon of Intervention in Congenital Heart Disease: AFR in a Complex Cyanotic Patient
Authors: Khajali Zahra , Ghaderian Homa , Firoozi Ata , Hosseini Zahra , Aliramezany Maryam
Published: December 2020

Double-inlet left ventricle (DILV) is the commonest form of the anatomic univentricular heart which has different ventriculoarterial connection; generally, the most prevalent type is DILV with the hypoplastic right ventricle on the left side. The disease is associated with several heart defects, and the treatment method is different based on the anatomy of the heart, but treatment methods are almost always palliative. In this paper, we described one adult patient with DILV and severe left AV (atrioventricular valve) stenosis who is managed with a novel palliative intervention; it means AFR (atrial flow regulator) device implantation for the first time.
A Rare Case of Osteoinvasive Amelanotic Melanoma of the Nail Unit
Authors: Black Alexandra T. , Lahouti Arash H. , Genco Iskender S. , Yagudayev Matvey , Markinson Bryan C. , Spielfogel William D.
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Amelanotic melanoma is a rare subtype, which may be clinically difficult to diagnose due to lack of pigmentation and variable histopathological features. Osteoinvasion is another rare characteristic of melanoma. There are few reports in the literature of amelanotic melanoma of the nail unit (nail bed, matrix, and nail folds) with invasion of bone. Case Presentation: We present a case of a 73-year-old Caucasian male with a 13-month history of an ungual lesion on his right hallux. The lesion was initially treated as a chronic diabetic ulceration with failure to resolve with standard of care. Discussion/Conclusion: A heightened index of suspicion for a malignant process is necessary when standard of care fails to lead to improvement or resolution. In these instances, biopsy should be seriously considered.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Distribution in the Russian Federation
Authors: Muntyanu Anastasiya , Ghazawi Feras M. , Nedjar Hacene , Rahme Elham , Alakel Akram , Zubarev Andrei , Netchiporouk Elena , Litvinov Ivan V.
Published: December 2020

Background: Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) incidence has been increasing steadily around the world. The aim of the study is to describe geographic trends in incidence and mortality of NMSC in Russia between 2007 and 2017 and compare findings to other European countries. Methods: We used geospatial analysis to map the incident cases and descriptive statistical analysis to analyze trends. Additionally, we assessed the relationship between ethnicity, geographic latitude/longitude, and NMSC incidence/mortality rates. We retrospectively analyzed the data from the Moscow Oncology Research Institute, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, for 2007–2017. Routine methods of descriptive epidemiology were used to study incidence and mortality rates by age groups, years, and jurisdictions (i.e., Federal Districts and Federal Subjects). Results: In total, 733,723 patients were diagnosed with NMSC in Russia over the period 2007–2017, of whom 63% were women. The overall age-standardized incidence and mortality rates were 29.64/100,000 and 0.70/100,000, respectively. There was a consistent increase in age-standardized incidence rates over the study period, with a decreasing mortality rate. Geographic mapping revealed north-to-south and east-to-west gradients for NMSC. Conclusions: This study demonstrated longitudinal trends for NMSC incidence in Russia documenting that skin phototype, latitude/longitude, climate zones, and cultural practices remain dominant risk factors defining the epidemiology of NMSC. Moreover, this work identified several regions in the country (i.e., Republic of Adygea, Samara, Krasnodar Krai, etc.), where patient education/sun awareness campaigns will be useful to help reduce the risk of this malignancy.
Ideologias subterrâneas, mitologias pessoais: a disputa narrativa em Lavoura arcaica
Authors: Enabe Cláudia Ayumi
Published: December 2020

Este artigo investiga as disputas ideológicas do romance Lavoura arcaica (1975), de Raduan Nassar. Analisa-se como a divergência dos discursos familiares estabelece a gênese da oposição do filho pródigo ao pai autoritário, observando as falas apagadas pela univocidade paterna. Esses ideários outros são associadas ao avô e à mãe, posicionamentos cuja sobrevivência contraria os anseios patriarcais de consolidar uma versão oficial da mitologia familiar, a qual recusa um conhecimento que não se constitua pela palavra-norma, pregada pelo patriarca. Subterraneamente, avô e mãe participam da formação gauche do narrador quando o ensinam a conhecer pela experiência, pela entrega do corpo e dos sentidos.
Entre o verso e o anverso da feminilidade: o Mal em Crônica da casa assassinada
Authors: Monteiro Romildo Biar
Published: December 2020

Este artigo procura refletir sobre os perfis femininos com os quais Lúcio Cardoso escreveu sua poética do Mal: Crônica da casa assassinada (1959), considerando a presença do discurso forjado pela tradição cristã para interditar e cercear o desejo, anulando qualquer caminho direcionado ao prazer e ao conhecimento de si. Apesar de castrador, esse discurso não extingue a flamejante chama do desejo, ao contrário, transforma-se em esteio à germinação da semente da rebeldia, geradora de personagens transgressoras de preceitos morais e religiosos. Logo, constata-se a condição humana insatisfeita – eis o sustentáculo imprescindível à difusão do Mal.
Um longo e penoso trabalho de desagregação: representação do atraso na Crônica da casa assassinada, de Lúcio Cardoso
Authors: Sousa Rafael Batista de
Published: December 2020

O artigo pretende analisar o romance Crônica da casa assassinada (1959), de Lúcio Cardoso, sob o viés da consciência do atraso que marca a experiência literária brasileira. Tendo como base as ideias de Antonio Candido sobre o atraso brasileiro, o romance é visto a partir da ótica da ruína como representação da decadência e da permanente dialética entre atraso e progresso inerentes à formação da nação.
Da paixão à insolvência ou a arquitetônica de um romance: Crônica da casa assassinada
Authors: Silva Sandro Adriano da
Published: December 2020

Crônica da casa assassinada, publicado em 1959, constitui um marco definitivo do romance brasileiro de cariz introspectivo das décadas de 1930-1940, e o corolário da obra de Lúcio Cardoso (1912-1968). A sondagem interior metaforizada em uma arquitetônica narrativa polifônica epistolar orquestra os matizes do páthos que marca o estilo de cada voz diegética. Este artigo aventa uma sondagem das modulações do páthos narrativo, a partir de expedientes estéticos, narratológicos e estilísticos, que, acredita-se, agenciam produções de sentido à obra, a partir de uma incursão pelos diários de Lúcio Cardoso.
Bibliografia ilustrada da Crônica da casa assassinada: edições e desdobramentos
Authors: Ribeiro Ésio Macedo
Published: December 2020

Neste artigo, apresento a bibliografia ilustrada do romance Crônica da Casa Assassinada, de Lúcio Cardoso, e, também, imagens e referências do filme e da peça adaptados dele.
Três poemas
Authors: Torres Valeska
Published: December 2020

Poemas de Valeska Torres: "Pincelar pretéritos", "Orvalheço" e "Sem título".
Mulheres forasteiras e continuidade artística de A mulher de longe até a Crônica da casa assassinada
Authors: Costa Érica Ignácio da
Published: December 2020

Este artigo propõe uma breve comparação entre a obra-prima de Lúcio Cardoso, a Crônica da casa assassinada (1959), e seu roteiro principal A mulher de longe (1949). As figuras principais de ambas as obras são mulheres forasteiras, que, no embate entre a tradição e uma tentativa de abertura, são as que saem mais torturadas, e muitas vezes esfaceladas pelas próprias mulheres que se apoiam demais nos preconceitos e nas convenções estabelecidas por uma sociedade tradicional e patriarcal – em ruínas –, como no caso de Nina e Ana, na primeira obra, e da mulher e da velha, na segunda. A questão que se supõe é que a Crônica da casa assassinada seria, dez anos depois, uma continuidade literária da tentativa de roteiro que foi A mulher de longe.
SELF-ESTEEM AND TYPES OF CREATIVITY IN ADOLESCENTS: RELATIONSHIP AND PREDICTORS
Authors: Kosenkova Natalya N. , Meshkova Natalya V.
Published: December 2020

We present the results of an empirical study of the relationship between self-assessment of creative abilities, originality of creativity (verbal and social) and values. The relevance of the research is related to the demand for creativity as an important competence in the labor market. The ambiguity of the relationship between different types of creativity and self-assessment of creativity, as well as the discrepancy between the results of diagnostics of creative potential using various methods, actualizes the problem of realizing creative potential. The aim of the work was to study the relationship between different types of creativity, self-assessment of creativity and values, as well as to identify the ratio of creativity indicators diagnosed using the Real Word Divergent Task (RWDT) method and tasks for verbal creativity. The study involved adolescents aged 15–16 years (N = 50; 26 — men) — students of one of Moscow school. The following methods were used: “Selfassessment of creative abilities” (E. Tunik), tasks on verbal creativity and creativity in social interaction of positive and negative connotations of RWDT, Portrait value questionnaire of Sh. Schwartz. According to the results, originality is higher in tasks for verbal creativity compared to situations in social interaction; originality in situations of lies and prosocial situations in social interaction significantly correlate; there is no correlation between self-esteem of imagination and creativity indicators measured using the RWDT method and tasks for verbal creativity; self-esteem of creative abilities has a positive relationship with the highest value of “Openness to change”; the predictor of self-esteem of imagination is the value of “Independence of thought”. The results confirmed the hypotheses about specificity of creativity, about the absence of a link between creativity measured as self-report and objective methods; about the presence of a direct link between the highest values of “Openness to change” and the components of creativity measured by selfreport, and did not confirm assumption about the absence of a direct link between originality in prosocial situations and situations with negative connotations. Conclusions are made that 1) creativity is specific in various areas, 2) creativity in situations of lies and prosocial situations in social interaction is a single construct; 3) self-esteem of imagination is not associated with divergent thinking, measured using the RWDT method and tasks for verbal creativity; 4) high selfesteem of imagination is mediated by the motivational goal of thinking creatively, having original ideas, learning new things and phenomena.
Genetic homogeneity in a Pontocaspian crested newt species (Triturus karelinii) suggests recent isolation of its three allopatric range sections
Authors: Wielstra Ben , Arntzen Jan W.
Published: December 2020

The integration of multilocus datasets and species distribution modelling in phylogeography allows for the reconstruction of more detailed historical biogeographical scenarios than based on mtDNA data alone. We here combine these approaches to investigate the range dynamics of the crested newt Triturus karelinii, an amphibian species endemic to the Pontocaspian region, whose range comprises three allopatric range sections: a Crimean, a Caucasian and a Caspian range section. In a previous mtDNA phylogeographical survey it was suggested that the Caucasian range section was colonized from the Caspian one and that the Crimean range section was subsequently colonized from the Caucasian one. Newly collected nuclear DNA data reveal little genetic differentiation between the three range sections and species distribution modelling suggests that they only recently became isolated. Taken together, our analyses agree with a recent colonization of the Crimean range section, but rather suggest long-term persistence in both the Caspian and Caucasian range sections, with extensive gene flow between the two.
Islamic Feminism and Hegemonic Discourses on Faith and Gender in Islam
Authors: Shahin Farah
Published: December 2020

Islamic feminism is characterised by a debate, a practice enunciated within the Islamic values and frame. Muslim women brought their experiences to the forefront and challenged the traditional and post-classical interpretation of the Qurʾan and Sunna. They claimed interpretations of the religious text as totally biased and based on men’s experience, questions that are male-centric, and the overall influence of the patriarchal society and culture. According to Islamic feminists, Islam has guaranteed women’s rights since its inception, confirming the notion of egalitarian ethics within Islam. However, the original message of Islam has been hindered by the hegemonic interpretation of Islamic jurisprudence; a product of existing patriarchy in the long passage of Islamic history for over several centuries. The rights of women as prescribed in Islam are not in practice anymore, even the demand for women’s rights is seen by many as going against the basic principle of Islam. Islamic feminists give their justifications from the Qurʾan and Hadith, and they called for re-opening the door of ijtihād (reasoning). This paper captures the significant works of feminist discourses and analyses different perspectives by the Islamic feminists who challenged the dominant discourses in Islam. It deals with the dominant discourse of Islamic feminists such as feminist hermeneutics of the Qurʾan, and includes a discussion on how feminist hermeneutics or new gender-sensitive interpretation of the Qurʾan tries to assert gender equality in the Qurʾan. There are two ways in which Muslims read patriarchy in the Qurʾan: first from the verses and the other from the different treatment of the Qurʾan on issues including marriages, divorce, inheritances, and witness. Islamic feminists reject anti-women elements, present in the Muslim umma and consider them as unethical and against Islam.
Religious Tolerance of Madrasa Students according to Their Religious Affiliation: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Shaukat Sadia , Pell Anthony William
Published: December 2020

An attitude scale measuring tolerance has been used with a sample of 350 students in Pakistani religious schools (madrasas). Sectarian affiliation was identified as a key variable, which was moderated by student gender. Female students in general scored negatively, especially if they identified as Deobandi. Shiʿi and Barelvi students are more likely than not to show positive tolerance of others. Cluster analysis separates the students into ‘conservatives’ and ‘liberals’. Shiʿa show a strong liberal tendency, while Deobandis show a strong conservative tendency. Results are consistent with the emergent theology of the groups and the aggressive elements in Pakistani society. Suggestions are made for the mechanism of curricular change in the liberal Shiʿi and Barelvi madrasas and for the direction of research into the Deobandi and Ahl-i Hadith schools.
Post-Ban Era of Private Tutoring Practices in Tanzania
Authors: Anangisye William A.L.
Published: December 2020

Private tutoring continues in Tanzania, twenty-one years after its being officially banned. Despite the 1999 ruling, overtly organised private tutoring continues unabated through established infrastructures. This study focuses on the private tutoring centres in the Iringa Municipality. The data was collected by engaging with their owners and with the students, teachers and parents who participate in sustaining these services. Irrespective of its modus operandi, the tenacious practice of private tutoring signals an on-going demand, reinforced by the egregious gaps in the supply of education as it is delivered by formal systems nationally. Hungry for the highest standard of education for their children, parents seek to fulfil this manifest need through these auxiliary channels.
Followership in sub-Saharan Africa’s Development: Reconstructing the Appendage Game
Authors: Nakabo Robinah S.
Published: December 2020

To address the many challenges of development faced in sub-Saharan Africa, the concentration of attention upon defects of African governments in power continues to be a main focus, as failed leadership is regarded as the primary problem responsible for underdevelopment throughout the continent. Refocusing attention upon followership instead of leadership might provide a remedial alternative. Using critical reflexivity, the role that followership plays in development should be scrutinized just as leadership has been scrupulously evaluated; and if faults be found, let measures be designed, implemented, and assessed using development parameters of choice. ‘Followership’ in this essay depicts the capacity and power with which every individual is endowed; the proposal here is that by exercising that ability to impact their representatives in elected office, citizens can keep their leadership in check through a dialectical, reiterative protocol of initiative and response between leadership and followership. Inspired by Rousseau, the ideal of ‘liberated followership’ implies responsible individuals employing their civic freedoms to develop effective leadership, with the potential of ultimately realizing the socio-economic development that Africans so much desire.
Linguistic and Social Outcomes of Interactions of Hadzabe and Sukuma in North-Western Tanzania
Authors: Lusekelo Amani , Mgeja Micky
Published: December 2020

Social and linguistic contacts of the Hadzabe speaking people with the Sukuma people in Maswa District (now Meatu District) in northern Tanzania have been under-reported in the existing literature, whereas the Hadzabe of eastern Tanzania have been researched in depth. Specialists have documented that in western Tanzania, the material culture of the Hadzabe differs significantly from what is found among their counterparts in the eastern region; so too the regional differences between their adaptations of kinship terms have been well documented. However, patterns of linguistic adaptation in the naming of plants and crops have yet to be analysed. Findings from Sungu Village in Meatu District reveal the significant influence of the Sukuma in the Hadzabe lexicon of plants and crops. It is understandable why the names of cultivated crops among the Hadzabe would demonstrate the Sukuma influence, since the Sukuma farmers introduced farming amongst the Hadzabe foragers. But it is unclear why the Hadzabe should have borrowed Sukuma names for wild plants as well, since the Hadzabe have depended upon their local biodiversity throughout their existence in the region, as has been documented for several decades now. We argue that despite their recency, communities which dominate through their sheer population density, such as the Sukuma, tend to influence the deeper lexicon of smaller communities like Hadzabe.
A new Gammarus species (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae) from Northwestern Islands, South Korea
Authors: KWON SO-YEON , KIM MIN-SEOP , HEO JUN-HAENG , KIM YOUNG-HYO
Published: December 2020

A new species, Gammarus baengnyeongensis sp. nov., belonging to the family Gammaridae Leach, 1814 was collected from the Baengnyeongdo and Daecheongdo islands in South Korea. This new species is characterized by the flagellum of antenna 2 with calceoli, and the length ratio of outer ramus to inner ramus of uropod 3. Descriptions of diagnostic characteristics of the species are provided in the text. We performed statistical analysis to confirm the significance of morphological differences of interspecies. Additionally, we compare the new species to related species by the partial sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) gene. Genetic distances between the new species and closely related species rated from 29.1–40.8%, which highly supports Gammarus baengnyeongensis sp. nov. as a valid species. In this study, we add one new Gammarus species in Korean waters.
A new species of Hemilea Loew and two new records of Trypetini (Diptera: Tephritidae: Trypetinae) from India
Authors: DAVID K.J. , HANCOCK D.L. , SACHIN K. , SANKARARAMAN H.
Published: December 2020

A new species of Hemilea Loew, H. totu David, Hancock & Sachin, sp. n., is described from India. Paratrypeta appendiculata (Hendel) and Vidalia thailandica Hancock & Drew are recorded for the first time from India and a key to species of Hemilea from India and Myanmar is provided.
The Current Status of the Polish Language in Ivano-Frankivsk (Formerly Stanislaviv)
Authors: Pelekhata Olena
Published: December 2020

The Current Status of the Polish Language in Ivano-Frankivsk (Formerly Stanislaviv)This paper analyses the present status of the Polish language in the Ukrainian city of Ivano-Frankivsk (formerly Stanislaviv) and the challenges which it faces. The Polish language is a minority language in the city. National identity statistics from the censuses of 1931 and 2001 are analysed. The paper examines the following institutions and areas of Polish language usage and vitality: the activities of the Centre for Polish Culture and European Dialogue in Ivano-Frankivsk, Polish societies, religion, family and education. Język polski w Iwano-Frankiwsku (dawny Stanisławów). Stan obecnyAnalizowane są obszary funkcjonowania i perspektywy funkcjonowania języka polskiego we współczesnym ukraińskim mieście Iwano-Frankiwsk (dawny Stanisławów). Język polski w regionie jest językiem mniejszości narodowej. Przeanalizowano dane statystyczne według narodowości ze spisu z 1931 r. i ostatniego spisu z 2001 r. Obszary funkcjonowania i żywotności języka polskiego to: działalność Centrum Kultury Polskiej i Dialogu Europejskiego w Iwano-Frankiwsku, języka polskiego w społeczeństwie polonijnym, sferze religijnej, rodzinie i edukacji.
Coastal Trapped Waves and Other Subinertial Variability along the Southeast Greenland Coast in a Realistic Numerical Simulation
Authors: Gelderloos Renske , Haine Thomas W. N. , Almansi Mattia
Published: December 2020

Ocean currents along the southeast Greenland coast play an important role in the climate system. They carry dense water over the Denmark Strait sill, freshwater from the Arctic and the Greenland Ice Sheet into the subpolar ocean, and warm Atlantic Ocean water into Greenland’s fjords, where it can interact with outlet glaciers. Observational evidence from moorings shows that the circulation in this region displays substantial subinertial variability (typically with periods of several days). For the dense water flowing over the Denmark Strait sill, this variability augments the time-mean transport. It has been suggested that the subinertial variability found in observations is associated with coastal trapped waves, whose properties depend on bathymetry, stratification, and the mean flow. Here, we use the output of a high-resolution realistic simulation to diagnose and characterize subinertial variability in sea surface height and velocity along the coast. The results show that the subinertial signals are coherent over hundreds of kilometers along the shelf. We find coastal trapped waves on the shelf and along the shelf break in two subinertial frequency bands—at periods of 1–3 and 5–18 days—that are consistent with a combination of mode-I waves and higher modes. Furthermore, we find that northeasterly barrier winds may trigger the 5–18-day shelf waves, whereas the 1–3-day variability is linked to high wind speeds over Sermilik Deep.
Precursors of Reading Performance and Double- and Triple-Deficit Risks in Spanish
Authors: De la Calle A. M. , Guzmán-Simón, PhD F. , García-Jiménez, PhD E. , Aguilar M.
Published: December 2020

Early literacy skills serve as the best precursors of reading success and risk indicators of the double deficit and triple deficit hypotheses according to the spelling consistency of languages. Our study analyzes the predictive value of phonological awareness, naming speed, and orthographic skills for early reading in Spanish. Participants included 362 Spanish children aged 4 to 5 years. We used data analysis to examine the relationships between these precursors and fluency through a structural equation model and investigated the risk indicators of poor reading performance according to the double deficit and triple deficit hypotheses using binary logistic analysis. Our research delimits a model for the Spanish language that emphasizes the predictive value of phonological awareness, letter-naming fluency, and knowledge of graphemes in early reading. Letter-naming fluency is the best precursor to early reading experiences, and poor early reading performance in children is explained by deficits in phonological awareness, naming speed, and visual orientation. Our findings confirm the risk indicators of the triple deficit hypothesis in the early learning of reading in Spanish.
The Living Donor Navigator Program Provides Support Tools for Caregivers
Authors: Reed Rhiannon D. , Killian A. Cozette , Mustian Margaux N. , Hendricks Daagye H. , Baldwin Kimberly N. , Kumar Vineeta , Dionne-Odom J. Nicholas , Saag Kenneth , Hites Lisle , Ivankova Natalia V. , Locke Jayme E.
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

The Living Donor Navigator (LDN) program is one of several initiatives designed to help transplant candidates identify living donors with the help of a friend or family member advocate to speak on their behalf. More than half of advocates in the LDN program were the spouse or parent of the candidate and served in a caregiving role. Caregivers for patients awaiting transplantation have reported poorer quality of life than the general population, suggesting more support is needed for this vulnerable group. The purpose of this study was to understand whether the LDN program met the needs of advocates who were also caregivers for the transplant candidate.

Methods:

We performed a supplementary secondary qualitative analysis of a parent study conducted December 2017-January 2018 with 9 advocates who participated in the LDN program. Transcripts were reanalyzed from focus group discussions, concentrating on comments about caregiving or made by caregivers. Using manual coding and reflexive thematic analysis, we identified broad codes and major themes.

Findings:

Our re-analysis revealed one theme overlapping with our previous analysis (Support) and 2 new themes specific to caregiver advocates: Quality of Life and Fear. Caregivers agreed that the LDN program equipped them with tools to address these areas and best serve their simultaneous caregiver/advocate roles.

Discussion:

These analyses demonstrated that those who served as advocate and caregiver derived a benefit from the LDN program but had distinct needs from other advocates. These findings can inform continued refinement of the program and expansion to support needs of caregiver
Epicatechin increases the persistence of long-term memory formed by conditioned taste aversion in Lymnaea
Authors: Itoh Ayaka , Komatsuzaki Yoshimasa , Lukowiak Ken , Saito Minoru
Published: December 2020

We examined the effects of epicatechin (Epi), a flavonoid abundant in green tea and cocoa, on long-term memory (LTM) formed following conditioned taste aversion (CTA) training in Lymnaea. In CTA training, the snails learn to avoid a food that initially they liked (i.e., sucrose). Twenty-four hours after CTA training, 67% of the trained snails showed a significant decrease in the feeding behavior elicited by sucrose. Placing snails in the Epi solution in CTA training did not alter the percentage of snails exhibiting LTM, but it significantly increased LTM persistence. We also examined changes following Epi exposure in spontaneous activity of the cerebral giant cells (CGCs) that modulate feeding behavior and are necessary for CTA-LTM. Our data suggested that Epi causes a decrease in CGC activity and increases LTM persistence possibly via GABAergic mechanism.
Usefulness of two-point Dixon T2-weighted imaging in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy: comparison with conventional fat saturation imaging in fat suppression quality and staging performance
Authors: Chen Lu , Hu Hao , Chen Huan-Huan , Chen Wen , Wu Qian , Wu Fei-Yun , Xu Xiao-Quan
Published: December 2020

Objective:

To compare the two-point Dixon T  2 weighted imaging (T  2WI) with conventional fat-sat T  2WI in fat suppression (FS) quality and staging performance for patients with TAO.

Methods:

We enrolled 37 thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) patients and 15 healthy controls who underwent both coronal two-point Dixon and fat-sat T  2WI. Qualitative (overall imaging quality, FS uniformity) and quantitative [signal intensity ratio of extraocular muscle (EOM-SIR)] parameters were assessed between the two-point Dixon T  2WI and fat-sat T  2WI. Additionally, water fraction of intraorbital fat (IF-WF) was measured on Dixon image. Dixon-EOM-SIR, Fat-sat-EOM-SIR and Dixon-IF-WF values were compared between active and inactive TAO groups, and the diagnostic efficiency for the active phase were evaluated.

Results:

Two-point Dixon T  2WI showed significantly higher overall image quality score, FS uniformity score as well as EOM-SIR value than fat-sat T  2WI in both TAO and control groups (all p < 0.05). Active TAOs had significantly higher Dixon-EOM-SIR (p < 0.001), Fat-sat-EOM-SIR (p < 0.001) and Dixon-IF-WF (p = 0.001) than inactive TAOs. ROC curves analyses indicated that Dixon-EOM-SIR ≥3.32 alone demonstrated the highest staging sensitivity (75.0%). When integrating Dixon-EOM-SIR ≥3.32 and Dixon-IF-WF ≥0.09, improved staging efficiency and specificity could be achieved (area under the curve, 0.872; specificity, 97.1%).

Conclusion:

Compared with conventional fat-sat technique, two-point Dixon T  2WI offers better image quality, as well as improved staging sensitivity and specificity for TAO. Dixon T  2WI is suggested to be used to evaluate the patients with TAO in clinical practice.

Advances in knowledge:

Two-point Dixon T  2WI offers better image quality than fat-sat T  2WI. Dixon-EOM-SIR alone demonstrated the highest staging sensitivity. Combining with Dixon-IF-WF showed improved staging efficiency and specificity. Dixon T  2WI is suggested to be used to evaluate TAO patients in clinical practice.