bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Features of Impaired Glucose Tolerance in Young Underweight Japanese Women
Authors: Sato Motonori , Tamura Yoshifumi , Nakagata Takashi , Someya Yuki , Kaga Hideyoshi , Yamasaki Nozomu , Kiya Mai , Kadowaki Satoshi , Sugimoto Daisuke , Satoh Hiroaki , Kawamori Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka
Published: January 2021

Objective

In Japan, while it is known that underweight women over the age of 40 years have a high risk for type 2 diabetes, there is a lack of clarity on the association between glucose tolerance and underweight in younger women. Accordingly, we investigate the prevalence and features of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in young underweight Japanese women.

Designs and Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 56 normal weight and 98 underweight young Japanese women and evaluated their glucose tolerance levels using an oral glucose tolerance test. Then, we compared the clinical characteristics associated with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and IGT in the underweight women. Insulin secretion, whole-body insulin sensitivity, and adipose tissue insulin resistance values were measured using the insulinogenic index, whole-body insulin sensitivity index (Matsuda index), and adipose insulin resistance index (Adipo-IR), respectively. Fitness level (peak VO2) was measured using an ergometer.

Results

The prevalence of IGT was higher in the underweight women than the normal weight women (13.3% vs 1.8%). The underweight women with IGT showed a lower insulinogenic index, lower peak VO2, and Matsuda index and a higher fasting free fatty acid level and Adipo-IR than those with NGT. The whole-body composition was comparable between the NGT and IGT groups.

Conclusions

The prevalence of IGT was higher in young Japanese women with underweight than those with a normal weight. The underweight women with IGT showed impaired early-phase insulin secretion, low fitness levels, and reduced whole-body and adipose tissue insulin sensitivity levels.
Robust Neutralizing Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 Develop and Persist in Subjects with Diabetes and COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Dispinseri Stefania , Lampasona Vito , Secchi Massimiliano , Cara Andrea , Bazzigaluppi Elena , Negri Donatella , Brigatti Cristina , Pirillo Maria Franca , Marzinotto Ilaria , Borghi Martina , Rovere-Querini Patrizia , Tresoldi Cristina , Ciceri Fabio , Scavini Marina , Scarlatti Gabriella , Piemonti Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

Context

Demonstrating the ability to mount a neutralizing antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 in the presence of diabetes is crucial to understand COVID-19 pathogenesis, reinfection potential, and vaccine development.

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize the kinetics and durability of neutralizing antibody (Nab) response against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the presence of hyperglycemia.

Methods

Using a lentiviral vector–based SARS-CoV-2 neutralization assay to measure Nabs, we characterized 150 patients randomly selected from a cohort of 509 patients with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia. We analyzed Nab response according to the presence of diabetes or hyperglycemia, at the time of hospitalization and during the postdischarge follow-up: 1-, 3-, and 6-month outpatient visits.

Results

Among 150 randomly selected patients 40 (26.6%) had diabetes. Diabetes (hazard ratio [HR] 8.9, P < .001), glucose levels (HR 1.25 × 1.1 mmol/L, P < .001), and glucose variability (HR 1.17 × 0.6 mmol/L, P < .001) were independently associated with an increased risk of mortality. The neutralizing activity of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in patients with diabetes was superimposable, as for kinetics and extent, to that of patients without diabetes. It was similar across glucose levels and correlated with the humoral response against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Positivity for Nabs at the time of hospital admission conferred protection on mortality, both in the presence (HR 0.28, P = .046) or absence of diabetes (HR 0.26, P = .030). The longevity of the Nab response was not affected by diabetes.

Conclusion

Diabetes and hyperglycemia do not affect the kinetics and durability of the neutralizing antibody response to SARS-CoV-2. These findings provide the rational to include patients with diabetes in the early phase of the vaccination campaign against SARS-CoV-2.
Υγιή αδέρφια παιδιών με καρκίνο
Authors: Καραμπέλα Κ. , Χατήρα Π. Δ. , Δαμίγος Δ.
Published: January 2021

The basic purpose of this research is to understand how healthy siblings visualize and represent health and disease as conditions affecting them and others in their family. Furthermore, an attempt was made to evaluate the emotions about health and disease for healthy siblings, as well as to investigate the parameters that interfere with the physicaland emotional life of healthy siblings. Fourteen healthy children participated in the research, aged between 7 and 14, siblings to children diagnosed and receiving treatment for leukemia (acute lymphoblastic &myelogenous leukemia), nephroblastoma (Wilms’ tumor), lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, where evaluated according to the Hatira Projective Technique. Some positive but mainly negative responses were obtained.The negative reactions concerned emotional instability, rejection, separation, siblings’ rivalry, the medical treatment and the fear of death, while positive reactions concerned self-awareness, sensitization, earlier maturing and increased family coherence after the crisis. The bond between siblings can outrun time and crises, even outgrowing the relationship between parents and their children. It is simultaneously a very vulnerable relationship, since traumatic experiences such as those arising from childhood cancer interfere with the mental and emotional development of the healthy brother or sister.
Ο έλεγχος μηδενικών υποθέσεων: διαδικασία, παρανοήσεις και μερικές προτάσεις για καλύτερες πρακτικές
Authors: Ρούσσος Πέτρος
Published: January 2021

The rationale of Null Hypothesis Significance Testing (NHST) is described, and the consequences of its hybridism are discussed. The paper presents examples published in “PSYCHOLOGY: The Journal of the HPS” refer to NHST and interpret its outcomes. We examined the 445 articles published between 1992 and 2010. We noted misuses of NHST and searched for any use of confidence intervals or error bars or use of these to support interpretation. Part of the paper focuses on the statistical-reform debate and provides detailed guidance about good statistical practices in the analysis of research data and the interpretation of findings. The proposed guide does not fall into the trap of mandating the use of particular procedures; it rather aims to support readers’ understanding of research results.
Determinants of diagnostic and pseudodiagnostic information selection
Authors: Tsiourpas Markellos , Vallee - Tourangeau Frederic , Kordoutis Panagiotis
Published: January 2021

Pseudodiagnosticity refers to the tendency to select impoverished information in preference to equally available diagnostic data. Mynatt, Doherty, and Dragan (1993) reported that pseudodiagnostic reasoning was attenuated in problems in which the information selection had consequences for the reasoner’s future actions in contrast to problemsin which it did not. Girotto, Evans and Legrenzi (1996) denied that such “action” problems fostered better information selection because they argued that in Mynatt’s et al.’s study action and non-action or inferencevaried in how the decision task was framed. It was predicted that for action problems there will be a higher frequency in informative data selection vs. both inference problems. In addition to that, a primacy effect for inference problems would occur irrespective of sequence of data presentation but not for action problems. We re-examined the way people reasoned about action problems and inference problems taking into consideration Girotto et al.’s criticisms. We found that even when the presentation and salience of the information was equated in both kinds of problems, diagnostic information selection was more likely foraction that for inference problems.
Ηθική ανάπτυξη, προσανατολισμός στόχων και επιθετικότητα σε αθλητές νεαρής ηλικίας
Authors: Ζαρώτης Ιωάννης , Ψυχουντάκη Μαρία
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PDF
Καταγραφή αναγκών και ευαισθητοποίησης για το φαινόμενο του εκφοβισμού σε σχολεία της πρωτοβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης στην περιοχή της Αθήνας
Authors: Φ. Γιαννακοπούλου Δήμητρα , Π. Διαρεμέ Σταυρούλα , Σουμάκη Ευγενία , Χατζηπέμου Θεολόγος , Ασημόπουλος Χάρης , Τσιαντής Ιωάννης
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PDF
Ενδοομαδική εύνοια και εξωομαδική προκατάληψη Ελλήνων και Αλβανών μαθητών δημοτικού σχολείου: Μετρήσεις και μεθοδολογικές διαπιστώσεις
Authors: Καρακίτσου Χρυσούλα , Χουντουμάδη Αναστασία
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PDF
An exploration of postgraduate students’ conceptions of the nature of argument
Authors: Hallam Susan , Francis Hazel
Published: January 2021

Study at postgraduate level requires the development of the skills of argument in developing both theoretical and empirical work. This study aimed to explore conceptions of argument among post-graduate students using qualitative methods within a quasi-experimental design. Thirty nine students, divided into two groups, participated. Eachgroup completed two tasks in a different order. Task 1 required each student to describe in writing how an argument might be used to add to knowledge and to list any characteristic structural features of an argument. Task 2 required the reading of a short text which was then evaluated in relation to its use of argument. For each task, small group discussion of differences, similarities and changes in views was tape-recorded. The findings showed considerable agreement regarding the main characteristics of an argument but variability in how argument was perceived to add to knowledge. The findings are discussed in relation to the work of Kuhn (1991) and in terms of their educational implications.
Linking African and Western models through integration of trickster folktales in the application of Cognitive Behavior Therapy for depression
Authors: Nzewi Esther N.
Published: January 2021

The unique re-entry challenges of African psychologists trained in western universities is evolving strategies for applying general clinical theories and therapeutic techniques in ways that are clinically effective and culturally sensitive. This case study presents the cross-cultural application of Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with a 12-year-old Nigerian adolescent. Cultural relevance is enhanced by the integration of culture-based trickster folktales in the cross-cultural application of CBT.The strategies for identifying major themes, contents, contexts, the characteristics of the villains and victims, nature of interpersonal relationships, emotions, behavior and consequences in trickster folktales are described. The case study further demonstrates how these components of trickster folktales are used for the implementation of core therapeutic techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The outcomes are discussed in terms of the benefits of the therapeutic application of CBT, efficacy of modified CBT in nonwestern countries, and client’s characteristics important in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder with culturally modified CBT in adolescents.
Proceedings of an expert workshop on community agreement for gene drive research in Africa - Co-organised by KEMRI, PAMCA and Target Malaria
Authors: Thizy Delphine , Pare Toe Lea , Mbogo Charles , Matoke-Muhia Damaris , Alibu Vincent Pius , Barnhill-Dilling S. Kathleen , Chantler Tracey , Chongwe Gershom , Delborne Jason , Kapiriri Lydia , Nassonko Kavuma Esther , Koloi-Keaikitse Sethlomo , Kormos Ana , Littler Katherine , Lwetoijera Dickson , Vargas de Moraes Roberta , Mumba Noni , Mutengu Lilian , Mwichuli Sylvia , Nabukenya Silvia Elizabeth , Nakigudde Janet , Ndebele Paul , Ngara Carolyne , Ochomo Eric , Odiwuor Ondiek Simon , Rivera Stephany , Roberts Aaron J. , Sambakunsi Rodrick , Saxena Abha , Sykes Naima , Tarimo Brian B. , Tiffin Nicki , Tountas Karen H.
Published: January 2021

Gene drive research is progressing towards future field evaluation of modified mosquitoes for malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa. While many literature sources and guidance point to the inadequacy of individual informed consent for any genetically modified mosquito release, including gene drive ones, (outside of epidemiological studies that might require blood samples) and at the need for a community-level decision, researchers often find themselves with no specific guidance on how that decision should be made, expressed and by whom. Target Malaria, the Kenya Medical Research Institute and the Pan African Mosquito Control Association co-organised a workshop with researchers and practitioners on this topic to question the model proposed by Target Malaria in its research so far that involved the release of genetically modified sterile male mosquitoes and how this could be adapted to future studies involving gene drive mosquito releases for them to offer reflections about potential best practices. This paper shares the outcomes of that workshop and highlights the remaining topics for discussion before a comprehensive model can be designed.
Drug overdose deaths, addiction neuroscience and the challenges of translation
Authors: McLean Samuel , Rose Nikolas
Published: January 2021

In this article, we argue that the rapid rise in drug overdose deaths in America is a tragedy that draws attention to fundamental conceptual and experimental problems in addiction science that have significant human consequences. Despite enormous economic investment, political support and claims to have revolutionised addiction medicine, neurobiological models are yet to produce a treatment for substance addiction. This is partly, we claim, because neurobiology is unable to explain essential features of addiction and relapse that neurobehavioral models of addiction are better placed to investigate. We show how addiction neuroscience turned to long-term memory to explain the chronicity of addiction and persistent relapses long after neurochemical traces have left the body. The turn to memory may in time help to close the translational gap facing addiction medicine, but it is our view in this article that the primary value of memory theory lays in its potential to create new critical friendships between biological and social sciences that are attuned to the lived experience and suffering of stigmatised people. The value of the memory turn may rest upon the capacity of these critical friendships to wean addiction science off its long-term dependence on disease concepts of human distress.
Characteristics morphological features of basketball players from Club "Baton Basket 25 Bydgoszcz"
Authors: Putkamer Joanna , Napierała Marek , Pezala Małgorzata , Zukow Walery
Published: January 2021

The aim of the study was to present the morphology of the basketball sports club,, Baton Basket 25 Bydgoszcz ". The study joined 12 players playing at 1 league. The following indicators were defined: slim body shape, BMI, arm muscle ratio, Pigneta indicator, the indicator of the pelvis, shoulders indicator, the indicator of the trunk, the rate of lower limb.Conclusions: All are characterized by the type of basketball leptosomatic, have BMI at normal weight, stocky frame predominates (75%), construction is characterized by a very strong 50% of basketball players, 25% of the construction stands out very strong and 25% of the average construction players, all basketball players have a long torso, pelvis narrow, narrow shoulders and represent a short limbs.
State of somatic features and motor capacity 14-year players with secondary Polish Nobel Prize winners in Więcbork
Authors: Mucha Paweł , Napierała Marek , Pezala Małgorzata , Zukow Walery
Published: January 2021

The aim of the study was to compare the characteristics of somatic and motor skills among young people in sport class and the class of general-Gymnasium in Wiecbork. The results were compared to the results of the regional and national studies. The tests were subjected to 40 - students aged 14 years (20 with class sports, and 20 general-class) of Gymnasium. Polish Nobel Prize winners in Wiecbork. The study of motor skills were six trials of the International Physical Fitness Test. Sports Group proved to be better in each of the trials compared motor skills of the students.
Similarity Of Effects On EEG Parameters Of Aramaic, Greek Catholic And Krishnaic Prayers
Authors: Popovych Igor L. , Gozhenko Anatoliy I. , Babelyuk Valeriy Ye. , Zukow Walery , Muszkieta Radosław , Korolyshyn Tetyana A. , Dubkova Galyna I. , Klishch Ivan M. , Mysula Igor R. , Bilas Volodymyra R. , Flyunt Igor-Severyn S. , Fil’ Vitaliy M. , Barylyak Liliya G.
Published: January 2021

The neurotropic effects of Prayer are manifested in two inhibitory and three activating patterns. The first inhibitory pattern reflects the decrease in elevated and upper limit levels of SPD of θ-and δ-rhythm in frontal loci and the second - decrease in normal SPD levels of β-and θ-rhythm in the frontal, central, temporal and parietal loci. The first activating pattern reflects a small increase in normal levels of β-rhythm index and asymmetry and SPD entropy in locus C3, as well as a further increase in elevated δ-rhythm SPD levels in loci P3 and T3. The second pattern reflects the slight increase in normal SPD levels of θ-rhythm in loci T3, T5, T6, O2 and α-rhythm in locus T5, as well as their indices and entropy SPD in locus O2. The third pattern reflects a slight increase in amplitude and SPD of α-rhythm in central, frontal, temporal and occipital loci.
Adaptation of folk games to accelerated swimming training of junior schoolchildren in outdoor swimming pools or reservoirs
Authors: Obrazhei Olha
Published: January 2021

The goal of the research was to test the effectiveness of the introduction of adapted Ukrainian folk games into the methodology of teaching swimming to junior schoolchildren in outdoor swimming pools or reservoirs.

Methodology: theoretical analysis and summary of scientific and methodological literature, pedagogical observations, testing, pedagogical experiment, methods of mathematical analysis and statistics.

Results. To assess the children's swimming fitness during the research, we developed a set of swimming tests. The results showed that we were able to significantly reduce a fear of water in junior schoolchildren by 28% (p
Functional tests assessing manual skills in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Strączyńska Agnieszka
Published: January 2021

Background

The aim of the study is to analyze and identify available functional tests assessing manual skills in children with cerebral palsy, as well as to describe and evaluate usefulness of the available tests in terms of qualitative and quantitative assessment of hand function.

Materials and methods

A review of all available functional scales assessing manual functions in children with cerebral palsy was conducted. Searches were made in the following electronic databases: Medline, PubMed and Cochrane Library. The analysis included all the researched scales related to the upper limb function and cerebral palsy.

Results

The content, methodology and application of 11 functional tests were compared. All available published research studies presented the reliability and validity of the assessment tools.

Conclusions

Scales used to assess manual functions in children with CP are to systemize child's abilities to complement the diagnosis, detect existing dysfunctions and to determine prognostic significance.
Contribution of biomotor and psychomotor factors that determine Pencak Silat Front Kick ability
Authors: Panjiantariksa Yusuf , Doewes Muchsin , Utomo Tri Aprilijanto
Published: January 2021

This study aims to determine the contribution of biomotor and psychomotor factors that determine pencak silat front kick ability. The study uses quantitative methods and confirmatory factor analysis design. This type of research used in this research is correlational research with confirmatory factor analysis design that confirms the relationship of indicator variables with latent variables that determine the ability of the front kick pencak silat. Data collection is processed and analyzed using a computer-based application Statistics SPSS (Product Statistics and Service Solutions) Version 23 and using the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test and Bartlett Test. The sample is a part or representative being studied. As a sample it is better to have the same characteristics as a population so that you can draw a picture of the population. The population and sample in this study were all students fostering the achievement of Pencak Silat UKM PSHT Sebelas Maret University with a total of 25 students. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling.The technique in collecting data uses tests and measurements. The results of the study are as follows: analysis of biomotor and psychomotor factors that determine the ability of the pencak silat front kick above, the biomotor and psychomotor factors that determine the ability of the front kick of pencak silat (H0 accepted) or those that have a factor component value of ≥ 0.5 are: Biomotor and psychomotor factors that contribute to determining the ability of pencak silat front kicks 1. Power of leg muscles with a factor component value of 0.92 2. Flexibility with a factor component value of 0.43 3. Power the abdominal muscles with a factor component value of 0.53 4. The balance with the factor component value is 0.91 5. Agility with a factor component value of 0.24 The results of the statistical analysis of biomotor and psychomotor factors that contribute to determining the ability of the front kick of pencak silat are leg muscle power (0.92), balance (0.91), abdominal muscle power (0.53), flexibility (0.42), and agility (0.24).
Clinical laboratory diagnosis of obstructive megaureter in children
Authors: Svekatun Vyacheslav Nikolaevich , Dmitriakov Valeriy Aleksandrovich , Lytvynenko Olena Semenivna
Published: January 2021

Introduction. Currently, there are more than 200 methods of surgical treatment of a megaureter, but none of the methods has achieved universal acceptance. Until now, the issues of differential diagnosis of organic and functional causes of ureteral dilatation in children under 3 years of age have not been sufficiently illuminated, there is no generally accepted algorithm for the management of patients with this pathology.

Relevance. The relevance of obstructive uropathies is evidenced by the fact that they occupy the third position in the list of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease in children, and account for 15% of cases. The prognosis of the outcome of obstructive uropathy is determined by the nature of the lesion and the degree of involvement in the pathological process of the kidneys, one of the main homeostatic and endocrine organs in humans. The degree of involvement of various markers in the development and progression of kidney damage in children is still insufficiently understood. All this prompts the search for screening, highly sensitive and specific methods for the diagnosis and prediction of nephrosclerotic changes in children against the background of urinary tract obstruction.

Objective: The study of the clinical and laboratory diagnostic methods, allowing to differentiate functional or organic urodynamic disorders, to determine the tactics of managing patients with obstructive uropathy.

Materials and methods. Since 2016, a study has been conducted of 174 children aged 0 to 18 years. 3 groups of children were identified: 1) with endoscopic treatment (main group); 2) treated with an open surgical method (control group); and 3) a group of children without urinary tract obstruction (reference group).

Results. In the course of the study, it was found that the most optimal values of serum cystatin C, close to the reference group (0.048-0.831 mg/ml) were obtained in children treated with endoscopic correction of the intramural ureter (0.217-0.798 mg/ml).

Conclusions. The tactics of endoscopic treatment of obstructive uropathies in children has advantages in terms of open surgical methods in technical simplicity, minimally invasiveness, maximum physiology, and a decrease in the frequency of postoperative complications. These theses are confirmed by the obtained results of the study of serum cystatin C as a marker of the state of renal filtration. It should be remembered that the effectiveness of endoscopic stenting of the lower ureter depends on the age of the child.
Sexism in the advertising discourse of Ukraine: Analysis of «Jinsovik» and «El Paso» advertising
Authors: Viytalyuk Nadiya , Maslova Yuliia
Published: January 2021

The article highlights the reasons for the use of sexist advertising by Ukrainian companies and the impact of such phenomena on a woman's social image and general well-being, as well as consumer culture. Although there is a more entrenched view of equality in the Western world today, sexism still prevails in advertising. It is believed that the way women are portrayed in advertising affects how a woman's role in society is perceived and how a woman should act and behave. The specific purpose of this study was to analyze promotional videos of the company Jinsovik and the El Paso Tavern in 2020 to demonstrate the use of sexualization and objectification of women. Apart from research implications, the findings also emphasize the feasibility of making specific control decisions related to the work of the executive bodies of the Office of Advertising, information and advertising departments and utilities.
Faktor-Faktor yang Memengaruhi Tingkat Kriminalitas di Indonesia Tahun 2018
Authors: Putra Andrian Dwi , Martha Gracilia Stevi , Fikram Muhammad , Yuhan Risni Julaeni
Published: January 2021

Crime still often occurs easily in daily life in Indonesia. This study aims to determine factors that influence the level of crime in Indonesia in 2018 and the magnitude of the influence of each factor. The data used in this study are secondary data obtained from the Statistics Indonesia (BPS). The method used in this study is path analysis, and the variables used are population, education, unemployment rate, poverty rate, and crime. As a result, population and poverty influenced crime while education influenced poverty significantly.

Keywords: crime, path coefficient, path analysis
Valuasi One Period Coupon Bond dengan Aset Mengikuti Model Geometric Brownian Motion with Jump Diffusion
Authors: Aniska Meiliawati , I Maruddani Di Asih , Suparti Suparti
Published: January 2021

One period coupon bond gives coupon once a bond life together with the principal debt. If the firm’s asset value on maturity date is insufficient to meet the debtholder’s claim, then the firm is stated as default. The well-known model for predicting default probability is KMV-Merton model. Under this model, it is assumed that the return on the firm’s assets is distributed normally and their behaviour can be described with the Geometric Brownian Motion (GBM) formula. In practice, most of the financial data tend to have heavy-tailed distribution. It indicates that the data contain some extreme values. GBM with Jump is a popular model to capture the extreme values. In this paper, we evaluate a corporate bond which has some extreme condition in their asset value and predicts the default probability in the maturity date. Empirical studies were carried out on bond that is issued by CIMB Niaga Bank that has a payment due in November 2020. The result shows that modelling the asset value is more appropriate by using GBM with Jump rather than GBM modelling. Estimation to CIMB Niaga Bank equity in November 2020 is IDR 246,533,573,844,229.00. The liability of this company is IDR 4,205,751,155,771.00. The prediction of CIMB Niaga Bank default probability is 1.065812 ´ 10-8 at the bond maturity. It indicates that the company is considered capable of fulfilling the obligations at the maturity date.

Keywords: jump diffusion, extreme value, probability default, equity, liability
Model Penyebaran Penyakit SIR Tipe Rantai Binomial dengan Kontak Random dan Waktu Penyembuhan Bernilai Tak Hingga
Authors: Rosyid Ilham Asyifa Maulana , Respatiwulan Respatiwulan , Handajani Sri Sulistijowati
Published: January 2021

Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) epidemic model is an epidemic model that illustrates the pattern of disease spread with the characteristics of individuals who have recovered cannot be re-infected and have a permanent immune system. The binomial chain type epidemic model assumes that infection spreads in discrete time units and the number of the infected individuals follows a binomial distribution. This research aims to discuss  binomial chain type SIR epidemic model by simulating the model. The transition probability depends on  the number of infected individuals in the period   the number of individuals encountered, and  the transmission probability. This model also assumes an infinite recovery time ( = ∞). This situation illustrates that infected individuals remain contagious during the period of spread of the disease. This situation can arise when the causative agent of the disease has a long life. Then simulations are performed by giving different transmission probability  The results show that the greater transmission probability will cause the probability of a new individual being infected in the next period to be greater.

Keywords : SIR epidemic model, binomial chain, infinite recovery time
Hyper-Zagreb indices of graphs and its applications
Authors: RAJASEKHARAİAH Girish V. , MURTHY Usha P.
Published: January 2021

The first and second Hyper-Zagreb index of a connected graph $G$ is defined by $HM_{1}(G)=\sum_{uv \in E(G)}[d(u)+d(v)]^{2}$ and $HM_{2}(G)=\sum_{uv \in E(G)}[d(u).d(v)]^{2}$. In this paper, the first and second Hyper-Zagreb indices of certain graphs are computed. Also the bounds for the first and second Hyper-Zagreb indices are determined. Further linear regression analysis of the degree based indices with the boiling points of benzenoid hydrocarbons is carried out. The linear model, based on the Hyper-Zagreb index, is better than the models corresponding to the other distance based indices.
Zum Zusammenhang von Authentizität und Charisma im Kon-text von Selbstzuschreibung, Aushandlung und Angemessenheit – eine exemplarische diskurs- und gesprächslinguistische Analyse
Authors: Steen Pamela
Published: January 2021

How are the concepts of charisma and authenticity jointly constructed in discourse, linked to each other, weighed against each other, played out – in order to build a social or (social) media identity of politicians and other public figures? This paper discusses these questions from a discourse and conversational linguistic perspective. Therefore, particular attention is paid to the self-attribution of charisma and the discursive negotiation of authenticity in connection with the former German Minister of Defense Karl Theodor zu Guttenberg. As an example, sequences from a talk show will be analyzed, which illustrate that the constructed (or demanded) authenticity can be categorized into three interdependent types: person-related (i), situation-related (ii) and ideal (iii) authenticity. Finally, it is postulated that the negotiation of an appropriate form of authenticity is also a question of power.
Legal change and legal inertia: understanding and contextualising Scottish cases in which women kill their abusers
Authors: McPherson Rachel
Published: January 2021

Significant legal and policy change related to domestic abuse has been evident in Scotland over the last 40 years. Despite this, no change has occurred in relation to cases in which women kill their abusers. This article maps the significant changes which have occurred in Scotland in relation to domestic abuse, linking these to the development of the Scottish women’s movement and related feminist activism. This landscape is contrasted with the inertia which has become apparent in relation to cases in which women kill their abusers. A detailed examination of the Scottish landscape is presented which includes in-depth qualitative analysis of 62 cases of this type.

Although the problems inherent to effecting change for women who kill their abusers are recognised, this article proposes several practical changes which could be implemented to bridge the knowledge gap which has emerged in Scotland. This call to action comes at the time when the Scottish Law Commission are considering homicide and defences to murder, making it a crucial time to consider the Scottish landscape in relation to this aspect of domestic abuse.
Calibration of geometrical aberration in transmitted wavefront testing of refractive optics with deflectometry
Authors: Wang Daodang , Yin Yamei , Dou Jinchao , Kong Ming , Xu Xinke , Lei Lihua , Liang Rongguang
Published: January 2021

Deflectometry, with its noticeable advantages such as simple structure, large dynamic range, and high accuracy comparable to interferometry, has been one of the powerful metrological techniques for optical surfaces in recent years. In the “null” deflectometric transmitted wavefront testing of refractive optics, ray tracing of the test system model is required, in which both the miscalibration of system geometrical parameters and optical tolerances on tested optics could introduce significant geometrical aberrations in the testing results. In this paper, the geometrical aberration introduced by a system modeling error in the transmitted wavefront testing is discussed. Besides, a calibration method based on polynomial optimization of geometrical aberration is presented for the geometrical aberration calibration. Both simulation and experiment have been performed to validate the feasibility of the proposed calibration method. The proposed method can calibrate the optical tolerances on tested optics effectively, and it is feasible even with a large geometric error, providing a viable way to address the uncertainty in system modeling in transmitted wavefront testing of freeform refractive optics with large dynamic range.
High-resolution, depth-resolved vascular leakage measurements using contrast-enhanced, correlation-gated optical coherence tomography in mice
Authors: Merkle Conrad W. , Augustin Marco , Harper Danielle J. , Gesperger Johanna , Lichtenegger Antonia , Eugui Pablo , Garhöfer Gerhard , Glösmann Martin , Baumann Bernhard
Published: January 2021

Vascular leakage plays a key role in vision-threatening retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Fluorescence angiography is the current gold standard for identification of leaky vasculature in vivo, however it lacks depth resolution, providing only 2D images that complicate precise identification and localization of pathological vessels. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been widely adopted for clinical ophthalmology due to its high, micron-scale resolution and rapid volumetric scanning capabilities. Nevertheless, OCT cannot currently identify leaky blood vessels. To address this need, we have developed a new method called exogenous contrast-enhanced leakage OCT (ExCEL-OCT) which identifies the diffusion of tracer particles around leaky vasculature following injection of a contrast agent. We apply this method to a mouse model of retinal neovascularization and demonstrate high-resolution 3D vascular leakage measurements in vivo for the first time.
Pseudo color night vision correlated imaging without an infrared focal plane array
Authors: Duan Deyang , Xia Yunjie
Published: January 2021

Night vision is the ability to see in low-light conditions. However, conventional night vision imaging technology is limited by the requisite high-performance infrared focal plane array. In this article, we propose a novel scheme of color night vision imaging without the use of an infrared focal plane array. In the experimental device, the two-wavelength infrared laser beam reflected by the target is modulated by a spatial light modulator, and the output light is detected by a photomultiplier tube. Two infrared night vision images are reconstructed by measuring the second-order intensity correlation function between two light fields. Thus, the processing mode of optical electric detection in conventional night vision imaging is transformed into the processing mode of light field control. Furthermore, two gray images with different spectra are processed to form a color night vision image. We show that a high-quality color night vision image can be obtained by this method.
Channel model and the achievable information rates of the optical nonlinear frequency division-multiplexed systems employing continuous b-modulation
Authors: Derevyanko Stanislav , Balogun Muyiwa , Aluf Ofer , Shepelsky Dmitry , Prilepsky Jaroslaw E.
Published: January 2021

Following the rise in interest in transmission systems employing the nonlinear Fourier transform (NFT) for the nonlinearity mitigation, we present the theoretical analysis of the achievable information rates in these systems, addressing the case of continuous b-modulated systems. Using adiabatic perturbation theory and the asymptotic analysis by means of Riemann-Hilbert problem, we obtain a remarkably simple input-output relation for arbitrary b-modulated transmission. Based on this model, we estimated the spectral efficiency for various single polarization (scaled and unscaled) b-modulated systems and observed an excellent agreement between our theory and the numerical results in the regime when the inline amplifier noise is the dominant source of spectral distortion.
Assessing the potential impact of transmission during prolonged viral shedding on the effect of lockdown relaxation on COVID-19
Authors: Tepekule Burcu , Hauser Anthony , Kachalov Viacheslav N. , Andresen Sara , Scheier Thomas , Schreiber Peter W. , Günthard Huldrych F. , Kouyos Roger D.
Published: January 2021

A key parameter in epidemiological modeling which characterizes the spread of an infectious disease is the generation time, or more generally the distribution of infectiousness as a function of time since infection. There is increasing evidence supporting a prolonged viral shedding window for COVID-19, but the transmissibility in this phase is unclear. Based on this, we develop a generalized Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Resistant (SEIR) model including an additional compartment of chronically infected individuals who can stay infectious for a longer duration than the reported generation time, but with infectivity reduced to varying degrees. Using the incidence and fatality data from different countries, we first show that such an assumption also yields a plausible model in explaining the data observed prior to the easing of the lockdown measures (relaxation). We then test the predictive power of this model for different durations and levels of prolonged infectiousness using the incidence data after the introduction of relaxation in Switzerland, and compare it with a model without the chronically infected population to represent the models conventionally used. We show that in case of a gradual easing on the lockdown measures, the predictions of the model including the chronically infected population vary considerably from those obtained under a model in which prolonged infectiousness is not taken into account. Although the existence of a chronically infected population still remains largely hypothetical, we believe that our results provide tentative evidence to consider a chronically infected population as an alternative modeling approach to better interpret the transmission dynamics of COVID-19.
Overview of snakebite in Brazil: Possible drivers and a tool for risk mapping
Authors: Schneider Maria Cristina , Min Kyung-duk , Hamrick Patricia Nájera , Montebello Lucia R. , Ranieri Tani Maria , Mardini Lucia , Camara Volney M. , Raggio Luiz Ronir , Liese Bernhard , Vuckovic Myriam , Moraes Milton Ozorio , Lima Nísia Trindade
Published: January 2021

Snakebite envenoming affects close to 2.7 million people globally every year. In Brazil, snakebites are reported to the Ministry of Health surveillance system and cases receive antivenom free of charge. There is an urgent need to identify higher risk areas for antivenom distribution, and to develop prevention activities. The objective of this study is to provide an overview of the epidemiological situation of snakebite envenoming in Brazil and explore possible drivers; as well as to create a flowchart tool to support decision-makers identify higher risk areas. An ecological-type study was carried out using data by municipality (2013–2017). Study parts: 1) Create a geocoded database and perform a descriptive and cluster analysis; 2) Statistical analysis to measure the association of snakebite and possible environmental and socioeconomic drivers; 3) Develop a flowchart to support decision-makers and the application of this tool in one state (Rio Grande do Sul) as an example. An average of 27,120 snakebite cases per year were reported at the country level. Clusters of municipalities with high numbers of snakebites are mostly found in the Amazon Legal Region. The negative binomial regression model showed association with the snakebite case count: the type of major habitat, tropical or non-tropical; temperature; percentage of urbanization; precipitation; elevation; GDP per capita; a weaker relation with forest loss; and with venomous snake richness. The state where the instrument was applied reported 4,227 snakebites in the period. Most municipalities were considered as medium risk and 56/496 as high risk according to the tool created. Snakebite cases are distributed across the entire country with the highest concentration in the Legal Amazon Region. This creates a complex situation both for better understanding of the association of environmental and socioeconomic factors with snakebites and for the distribution and maintenance of antivenom to remote areas. Research into types of antivenom with a longer shelf life without the need for refrigeration is needed.
Pulse-Controlled Amplification–A new powerful tool for on-site diagnostics under resource limited conditions
Authors: Müller Katharina , Daßen Sarah , Holowachuk Scott , Zwirglmaier Katrin , Stehr Joachim , Buersgens Federico , Ullerich Lars , Stoecker Kilian
Published: January 2021

Background

Molecular diagnostics has become essential in the identification of many infectious and neglected diseases, and the detection of nucleic acids often serves as the gold standard technique for most infectious agents. However, established techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are time-consuming laboratory-bound techniques while rapid tests such as Lateral Flow Immunochromatographic tests often lack the required sensitivity and/or specificity.

Methods/Principle findings

Here we present an affordable, highly mobile alternative method for the rapid identification of infectious agents using pulse-controlled amplification (PCA). PCA is a next generation nucleic acid amplification technology that uses rapid energy pulses to heat microcyclers (micro-scale metal heating elements embedded directly in the amplification reaction) for a few microseconds, thus only heating a small fraction of the reaction volume. The heated microcyclers cool off nearly instantaneously, resulting in ultra-fast heating and cooling cycles during which classic amplification of a target sequence takes place. This reduces the overall amplification time by a factor of up to 10, enabling a sample-to-result workflow in just 15 minutes, while running on a small and portable prototype device. In this proof of principle study, we designed a PCA-assay for the detection of Yersinia pestis to demonstrate the efficacy of this technology. The observed detection limits were 434 copies per reaction (purified DNA) and 35 cells per reaction (crude sample) respectively of Yersinia pestis.

Conclusions/Significance

PCA offers fast and decentralized molecular diagnostics and is applicable whenever rapid, on-site detection of infectious agents is needed, even under resource limited conditions. It combines the sensitivity and specificity of PCR with the rapidness and simplicity of hitherto existing rapid tests.
“A lot of them have scary tears during childbirth…” experiences of healthcare workers who care for genitally mutilated females
Authors: Obiora Oluchukwu Loveth , Maree Johanna Elizabeth , Nkosi-Mafutha Nokuthula Gloria
Published: January 2021

Despite concerted efforts to curb Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C), it is still a contributor to the high morbidity and mortality rates among females in Africa. According to available literature, the experiences of healthcare workers who care for the genitally mutilated females in Nigeria have not been described, hindering efforts towards ending this procedure through evidence-based, community-led interventions. This qualitative study described the experiences of healthcare workers caring for the genitally mutilated females in South-Eastern Nigeria. In-depth interviews conducted with 17 participants resulted in two themes and five sub-themes. The participants faced major challenges in caring for these females as the complications of FGM/C resulted in situations requiring advanced skills for which they were ill-prepared. Irrespective of this complex situation, the participants believed FGM/C was an age-old cultural practice; some even supported its continuation. The solution to this problem is not simple. However, educational programmes involving all cadres of healthcare workers could assist with eradicating this practice. Also, enforcing the anti-FGMC law could enhance the eradication of this procedure.
Del nacionalcatolicisme al “valencianocorrectisme”. Breu anàlisi de la dimensió política de la festa de moros i cristians
Authors: Alcaraz Santonja Albert
Published: January 2021

La festa, com fet social total, presenta diverses dimensió d’anàlisi. D’entre totes, la política resulta especialment interessant per esbrinar de quin mode pobles i governants han emprat la festa com mecanisme d’adoctrinament polític i recurs per a la construcció nacional. La festa de moros i cristians, a la que les primeres referències documentals exactes situen el seu origen al segle XIV, n’és un bon exemple. Tant com forma d’expressió del poder reial a l’edat mitjana i instrument d’expansió de l’ideari nacionalcatolicista durant les edats moderna i contemporània, des del regnat de Felip II de Castella fins el franquisme, amb els episodis històrics de la batalla de Lepant i la mal anomenada reconquesta com eixos narratius centrals, com del canvi de referent històric i identitari que a partir de la dècada de 1970, la pròpia festa assolí, prenent com a eix simbòlic la figura del rei Jaume I, en tant figura simbòlica central de les institucions polítiques i culturals valencianes en el marc del procés de recuperació de l’autogovern. Missatge que des del segle XIX s’articula a partir de l’acte de l’ambaixada, instrument narratiu amb un discurs que navega entre l’exaltació patriòtica d’Espanya i l’atac al musulmà (textos del segle XIX) i l’evocació de la conquesta del Regne de València en tant expressió del pactisme i la defensa de la multiculturalitat (textos de l’últim terç del segle XX).