bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Fuzzy Neural Nonsingular Terminal Sliding Mode Control of MEMS Gyroscope
Authors: Wang Zhe , Fei Juntao
Published: December 2019

This paper attempts to improve the robustness and rapidity of a microgyroscope sensor by presenting a double‐loop recurrent fuzzy neural network based on a nonsingular terminal sliding mode controller. Compared with the traditional control method, the proposed strategy can obtain faster dynamic response speed and lower steady‐state error with high robustness in the presence of system uncertainties and external disturbances. A nonlinear terminal sliding mode controller is designed to guarantee finite‐time high‐precision convergence of the sliding surface and meanwhile to eliminate the effect of singularity. Moreover, an exponential approach law is used to accelerate the convergence rate of the system to the sliding surface. For suppressing the chattering, the symbolic function in the ideal sliding mode is replaced by the saturation function. To suppress the effect of model uncertainties and external disturbances, a double‐loop recurrent fuzzy neural network is introduced to approximate and compensate system nonlinearities for the gyroscope sensor. At the same time, the double‐loop recurrent fuzzy neural network can effectively accelerate the speed of parameter learning by introducing the adaptive mechanism. Simulation results indicate that the control system with the proposed controller is easily implemented, and it has higher tracking precision and considerable robustness to model uncertainties compared with the existing controllers.
Cost Estimation of Structural Components of a Building by considering the Seismic Load on Different Regions
Authors: Mubarak Mubarak , Abdullah Abdullah , Azmeri Azmeri , Hayati Yulia
Published: December 2019

Seismic loads should be considered in the cost estimation process as a consequence of changes in structural dimensions. Seismic loads received by buildings vary from one region to another, which are used as a basis for dimensioning structural components. This paper aims to investigate the potential cost changes of the reinforced concrete (RC) beam and column elements as an implication of variations in seismic load received by a building constructed in different seismic areas. This study was applied to a prototype of the two‐story building. The structure analysis performed with dynamic analysis by varying seismic design categories based on eight seismic zones in the observed area. The utilization of a building prototype was applied to three indices of seismic importance factor to represent the building occupancy category. The results of the study explaining the increase in the total cost of the two RC elements are 0.68%, 1.70%, and 1.54%, respectively, for the seismic importance factor indices of 1.00, 1.25, and 1.50. The variations of the costs due to the factor of seismic load and building occupancy categories indicate that both factors need to be considered in the cost estimation process of buildings.
Association between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Colorectal Adenomatous Polyps
Authors: Yang Wen , Yang Xueqing
Published: December 2019

Background. Helicobacter pylori infection is a common chronic infection worldwide. At the same time, the incidence of colorectal adenomatous polyps is also at high levels. In order to assess the relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and the occurrence of colorectal adenomatous polyps, we observed 166 patients who had undergone an electronic colonoscopy and 13C urea breath test in the outpatient clinic. Method. A total of 166 (87 males and 79 females, aged 53.85±9.18 years) patients who had colonoscopy examination and 13C urea breath test were divided into a Helicobacter pylori-positive group (n=68) and Helicobacter pylori-negative group (n=98) by the 13C urea breath test. At the same time, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting blood sugar were measured and the occurrence of hypertension was counted. Results. Patients with Helicobacter pylori infection had higher incidence of colorectal adenomatous polyps and multiple colorectal adenomatous polyps, higher levels of total cholesterol and fasting glucose, and more males (P<0.05, P<0.01). It was found that Helicobacter pylori infection (P<0.05, OR 2.383) was significantly associated with the risk of colorectal adenomatous polyps by binary logistic regression analysis. Conclusions. Patients with Helicobacter pylori infection had higher incidence of colorectal adenomatous polyps.
App-Based Tele Ophthalmology: A Novel Method of Rural Eye Care Delivery Connecting Tertiary Eye Care Center and Vision Centers in India
Authors: Das Anthony Vipin , Mididoddi Shravani , Kammari Priyanka , Deepthi Davara Navya , Loomba Abhinav , Khanna Rohit , Taneja Mukesh
Published: December 2019

Purpose. The study aims to describe a novel method of utilization of the eyeSmart EMR (electronic medical record) app. It describes the demographic distribution, clinical presentation, query requested by the vision technician, and management advised to the patients by using “eyeSmart EMR” app from the vision centers located across a three-tier eye care network in India. Methods. This is a retrospective review of all patients who required a tele-ophthalmology consultation from January 2017 to August 2018. The demographic, clinical details, and the impact of teleophthalmology using eyeSmart app, in the vision centers of a three-tier eye care network, was analyzed in detail. Results. A total of 15,001 tele-ophthalmology consults were included which is from January 2017 to August 2018. The mean age was 38 ± 19 years and male to female ratio was 1 : 2. Video calls were performed for 6191 (41.27%) consults and the impact was measured. Additional clinical information was received in 65.61% consults through video call. Medical management was advised in 47.07% of patients and 30.30% were referred to higher centers for medical intervention and 0.59% were referred for surgical intervention, 16.23% were prescribed glasses. No intervention required for 0.69% of cases. Hence nil intervention was advised. Conclusion. The combination of using tablet and video calls with the help of eyeSmart EMR app is a novel method in teleophthalmology. It helps in connecting the patients at rural areas and the ophthalmologists in higher centers. The use of technology plays a vital role in the appropriate medical management of the patient.
Arsenic Bioaccessibility of Realgar Influenced by the Other Traditional Chinese Medicines in Niuhuang Jiedu Tablet and the Roles of Gut Microbiota
Authors: Xu Wenfeng , Xu Shuo , Zhang Shanshan , Wu Xuejun , Jin Pengfei
Published: December 2019

Niuhuang Jiedu tablet (NJT), a realgar (As2S2) containing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a well-known formula. The safety of NJT is of growing concern since arsenic (As) is considered as one of the most toxic elements. NJT was demonstrated to be safer than realgar by our previous experiments and some other studies. The toxicity of realgar has been shown to be related to the amount of soluble or bioaccessible arsenic. In this study, the influences of the other TCMs in NJT on the bioaccessibility of arsenic from realgar, and the roles of gut microbiota during this process were investigated in vitro. Results showed that Dahuang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma), Huangqin (Scutellariae Radix), Jiegeng (Platycodonis Radix), and Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) could significantly reduce the bioaccessibility of arsenic from realgar in artificial gastrointestinal fluids. Gut microbiota played an important role in decreasing the bioaccessibility of realgar because it was demonstrated to be able to absorb the soluble arsenic from realgar in the incubation medium. Dahuang, Huangqin, and Jiegeng could modulate the gut microbiota to enhance its arsenic absorption activity.
Application of Minocycline-Containing Bismuth Quadruple Therapies as First-Line Regimens in the Treatment of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Zhang Lingyun , Lan Yu , Wang Qi , Zhang Yuexia , Si Xiaobei
Published: December 2019

Aim. To evaluate the eradication rate, safety, and compliance of minocycline-containing bismuth quadruple regimens in patients with an untreated Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Methods. A total of 360 patients with an untreated H. pylori infection were enrolled in this study between June 2017 and October 2018. Patients were randomly divided into a minocycline/amoxicillin (RMAB) group, a minocycline/metronidazole (RMMB) group, or an amoxicillin/clarithromycin (RACB) group, and all groups received a combined treatment approach with rabeprazole and bismuth to create a quadruple regimen for 14 days. A 3 to 5-day follow-up was adopted to evaluate the safety and compliance of medications after medicine administration. 13C-urea breath test was performed to confirm the eradication of H. pylori 4-12 weeks after therapy. Results. No significant differences were observed at baseline data among the three groups (p>0.05). Based on the intent-to-treat analysis, the eradication rates of the RMAB group, RMMB group, and RACB control group were 85.7% (102/119), 77.1% (91/118), and 71.7% (86/120), respectively, with significant difference (χ2=7.015, p=0.030). According to per protocol analysis, the eradication rates of RMAB group, RMMB group, and RACB group were 89.5% (102/114), 84.3% (91/108), and 76.8% (86/112), respectively, with statistically significant differences (χ2=6.673, p=0.036). The eradication rates of the RMAB group and RACB group were significantly different (p<0.05). The overall incidences of adverse events in the three groups were 30.0%, 37.5%, and 40.0%, respectively (p>0.05). Nausea, epigastric discomfort, and dizziness were more obvious in patients in the RMMB group compared to the other two groups (p<0.05). Moreover, two patients discontinued due to severe dizziness and nausea in the RMMB group. A taste disorder was more prominent in patients in the RACB group compared to patients in the other two groups (p<0.05), and one patient discontinued because of the bitterness in the mouth. Soon after discontinuation of the medicine, all adverse events disappeared. Conclusion. The bismuth quadruple regimen using minocycline/amoxicillin showed a better eradication effect with fewer side effects in patients with untreated H. pylori infections. The bismuth quadruple regimen with minocycline/metronidazole had a good eradication effect with more obvious side effects and might be recommended to patients with penicillin allergy.
Design of a Mechatronics Model of Urinary Bladder and Realization and Evaluation of Its Prototype
Authors: Zhuo Zhao , Dan He , Gensong Li , Ping Shi , Xining Pang
Published: December 2019

Annually, there are many bladder cancer patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) with urinary diversion worldwide. Until 2019, intestinal cystoplasty is still the gold standard for bladder replacement, but this therapy is always associated with severe complications. An ideal bladder substitute without using intestinal tissue remains a challenge today. In this work, an artificial mechatronics bladder (AMB) as a brand new bladder replacement approach is developed. We studied the main physiological function characteristics of a natural urinary bladder from teaching books and relevant papers. According to these characteristics, we completed an overall design of AMB and made a prototype in lab. The prototype successfully realized the functions of a natural bladder in vitro. It can expand to store urine in real time when urine is flowing into it. It can send a urination alarm when it is fully filled and can void urine automatically after receiving remote control signals. According to relevant papers and our test experience, if the prototype could be smaller and lighter and manufactured with good biocompatibility materials such as PTFE, we think it is possible for AMB to be implanted in an animal’s body, and we deduce AMB could realize the functions of a natural urinary bladder in vivo. After thorough validation from animal testing, we hope AMB can be a good clinical option for bladder removal patients in the future.
Total and Compartmental Chest Wall Volumes, Lung Function, and Respiratory Muscle Strength in Individuals with Abdominal Obesity: Effects of Body Positions
Authors: Sonpeayung Rattanaporn , Tantisuwat Anong , Janwantanakul Prawit , Thaveeratitham Premtip
Published: December 2019

Background. Abdominal obesity is a chronic condition that can contribute to impairments in lung function, leading to increased risks for respiratory-related diseases. Body position is an important technique that effectively restores and increases lung function and chest wall volumes. The objective of the current study was to examine the effects of the body positions on total and compartmental chest wall volumes, lung function, and respiratory muscle strength in individuals with and without abdominal obesity. Methods. Twenty obesity and twenty healthy males performed in four body position including sitting without and with back support, Fowler's, and supine positions. Each position was performed for five minutes. Chest wall volumes, lung function, and respiratory muscle strength were assessed in each position. Results. Sitting without and with back support resulted in higher total and rib cage compartmental chest wall volumes, lung function, and inspiratory muscle strength than Fowler’s and supine positions in both groups (p<0.001). Abdominal obesity subjects had significantly less total and compartmental chest wall volumes and lung function across four body positions than healthy subjects (p<0.001). Respiratory muscle strength in the obesity group was less than that in the healthy control group (p>0.05). Conclusions. This study provides new information regarding the effect of obesity and body position on chest wall volumes, lung function, and respiratory muscle strength. Among obesity individuals who are bedridden, sitting increases lung function, total and rib cage compartmental chest wall volumes, and inspiratory muscle strength—and would therefore likely to decrease the risk of respiratory-related disease—relative to Fowler’s and supine positions.
The Potential Link between Gut Microbiota and Serum TRAb in Chinese Patients with Severe and Active Graves’ Orbitopathy
Authors: Shi Ting-Ting , Hua Lin , Wang Hua , Xin Zhong
Published: December 2019

Background and Objective. A previous study reported alterations in the intestinal microbiota in patients with Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). Thyrotropin receptor autoantibody (TRAb) stimulates orbital and periorbital tissues and plays a pivotal role in the development of GO. However, the association between gut microbiota and TRAb in GO patients has still remained elusive. In this study, we explored the relationships between gut microbiota and GO-related traits, in which we applied a metabolic-network-driven analysis to identify GO trait-related modules and extracted significant operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Methods. In the present study, we profiled gut microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing in 31 GO patients. We performed metabolic-network-driven analysis to investigate the association between gut microbiota and GO-related traits (e.g., TRAb, TGAb, and TPOAb) in the combination of microbial effects. Results. Applying microbiome network analysis of cooccurrence patterns and analysis of topological properties, we found that s_Prevotella_copri and f_Prevotellaceae showed a significant correlation with TRAb. In particular, we applied the latent class model to explore the association between gut microbiota and GO-related traits in the combination of microbial effects. It was revealed that the subjects involved in the latent class model with the higher abundance of s_Prevotella_copri and g_Bacteroides had a higher TRAb level. Conclusions. Our results revealed the potential relationships between gut microbiota and GO-related traits in the combination of microbial effects. This study may provide a new insight into the interaction between the intestinal microbiota and TRAb-associated immune responses in GO patients.
Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Quality of Life among University Students
Authors: Nowak Paweł F. , Bożek Agnieszka , Blukacz Mateusz
Published: December 2019

The aim of our study was to explore the relation between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and the subjective and objective indicators of quality of life as well as life satisfaction among university students, whose education is related to different dimensions on health. Participants (N = 595) were invited to fill in a set of suitable questionnaires. The path analysis and linear regression were used to establish a relationship between the examined constructs. Only some types of physical activity have shown a positive relation with the quality of life; the study also revealed some age and gender regularities. Physical activity in the household was most positively correlated to the quality of life. The amount of leisure and transport physical activity decreased with age, and there were also gender differences regarding the intensity and type of physical activity. Sedentary behavior during the week related positively with the subjective quality of life and its intimacy dimension, but sedentary behavior at the weekends was negatively related to objective and subjective quality of life as well as dimensions including intimacy, safety, and communicative aspect of the quality of life. Neither physical activity nor sedentary behavior demonstrated a significant relation with the level of life satisfaction. The type of physical activity undertaken and its matching to the needs of the young person affected their objective and subjective quality of life. Those findings may have important implications for institutions responsible for promoting active lifestyle.
Rare Treatment for a Rare Tumor: Cryoablation of a Granular Cell Tumor
Authors: Derstine Lauren , Soule Erik , Shabandi Naudare , Arutyunova Zarina , Lall Chandana , Scuderi Christopher , Matteo Jerry
Published: December 2019

Background: Granular cell tumors (GCTs) or Abrikossoff’s tumors are rare neoplasms known to originate from Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system. These lesions are usually benign; malignancy only occurs in 1–2% of cases. Surgical resection is the traditional treatment method for GCTs, but it poses several risks and disadvantages related to the surgical incompatibility of the patient, the extended recovery time, and the chance of relapse. Cryoablation is becoming an increasingly favored method of treatment for tumors, both benign and malignant, due to its minimal invasiveness, natural analgesic properties, and ability to stimulate antitumor immunity. Cryoablation may contribute to the prevention of secondary and metastatic tumor growth in cases of malignancy by preserving tumor-associated antigen molecules for recognition by cell-mediated immunity. Methods: This article describes a novel method for GCT treatment using cryoablation. This technique exposes tumor tissue to extreme cold temperatures, effectively destroying tumor cells by irreversibly compromising their plasma membranes. To our knowledge, this is the first report in the literature of cryoablative techniques being used for GCT. Results: Cryoablation of this mass was successful with no complications. CT images during the procedure demonstrated circumferential coverage of the entire lesion with no injury to the surrounding tissues. Conclusion: Cryoablation can be used as an alternative to surgical intervention to treat malignant GCTs. This procedure is minimally invasive, less painful, and potentially effective in promoting antitumor immunity.
A Practical Approach to Nutrition, Protein-Energy Wasting, Sarcopenia, and Cachexia in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hanna Ramy M. , Ghobry Lena , Wassef Olivia , Rhee Connie M. , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar
Published: December 2019

Objectives of Review: Protein-energy wasting (PEW) is a state of disordered catabolism resulting from metabolic and nutritional derangements in chronic disease states. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in particular, have muscle wasting, sarcopenia, and cachexia that contribute to frailty and morbidity. Moreover, reverse epidemiology findings have strongly linked PEW with mortality in CKD and ESRD. Updated Findings: The malnutrition-inflammation score (KALANTAR Score) provides a useful tool to predict nutritional risk. A stronger focus on renal nutrition in renal patients is needed to attenuate cachexia and muscle loss. Malnutrition is a far greater threat in patients with renal disease than obesity, which means dietary counseling needs to be tailored to reflect this observation. The need to achieve optimal caloric intake is compounded by the need to limit excess protein intake in CKD, resulting in the need for energy supplementation to avoid PEW. Preventing PEW is the most pressing clinical concern in CKD/ESRD. Other nutritional issues to reckon in renal disease include the need to normalize serum bicarbonate to manage acidosis, uric acid control, and phosphorous control in CKD and ESRD. Exercise maybe beneficial, but further work is needed to prove a conclusive benefit via a randomized trial. Summary: PEW prevention is an integral part of renal nutrition and is of paramount importance given the obesity paradox. Integrative approaches by physicians and dieticians are needed to take a holistic view of a patient’s diet beyond just control of particular laboratory parameters.
Treatment of Male-Pattern Alopecia with Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: Okita Aline Lissa , Steiner Denise , Berbert Ferreira Sineida , Müller Ramos Paulo , Ferreira Walter , Silveira Rebecca , Mussi Maria Luiza , Vaidergorn Rafael Eliahu , Berbert Ferreira Rachel
Published: December 2019

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) affects up to 80% of men and 50% of women throughout their lifetime, causing significant discomfort. Minoxidil, finasteride, and low-level laser light therapy are the only Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for AGA, and they have shown positive results in randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses. However, their efficacy is limited, and new therapies are needed. Injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a minimally invasive technique, has been described by several authors as a promising treatment for AGA. Although many studies report beneficial effects of PRP on AGA, there is no standardized practice for PRP preparation and administration or a standard method to evaluate results. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of manually prepared PRP in the treatment of male AGA. Materials and Methods: We treated 20 male patients with AGA with 3 monthly injections of PRP and analyzed results by TrichoScan®. Results: In this study, there was no statistically significant improvement in hair count or proportion of anagen hairs. Conclusions: This lack of response could be related to any of the variables during PRP preparation described above and also to the limited number of patients in the study.
Onychalgia Causes and Mechanisms: The “GIFTED KID” and the “FOMITE”
Authors: Fonia Athina , Richert Bertrand
Published: December 2019

This article gives an account of the commonest causes of nail pain. The acronyms GIFTED KID and FOMITE will help aid doctors in a busy clinical setting to remember the main causes of onychalgia, respectively, on the fingers and toes. It includes a brief overview of the clinical characteristics and focuses on the type of pain for each condition as well as the mechanisms that cause it.
The Role of Endothelin and Endothelin Antagonists in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Raina Rupesh , Chauvin Abigail , Chakraborty Ronith , Nair Nikhil , Shah Haikoo , Krishnappa Vinod , Kusumi Kirsten
Published: December 2019

Background: Endothelins (ET) are a family of peptides that act as potent vasoconstrictors and pro-fibrotic growth factors. ET-1 is integral to renal and cardiovascular pathophysiology and exerts effects via autocrine, paracrine and endocrine signaling pathways tied to regulation of aldosterone, catecholamines, and angiotensin. In the kidney, ET-1 is critical to maintaining renal perfusion and controls glomerular arteriole tone and hemodynamics. It is hypothesized that ET-1 influences the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and the objective of this review is to discuss the pathophysiology, and role of ET and endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs) in CKD. Summary: The use of ERAs in hypertensive nephropathy has the potential to decrease proteinuria, and in diabetic nephropathy has the potential to restore glycocalyx thickness, also decreasing proteinuria. Focal segmental glomerular sclerosis has no specific Food and Drug Administration-approved therapy currently, however, ERAs show promise in decreasing proteinuria and slowing tissue damage. ET-1 is a potential biomarker for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease progression and so it is thought that ERAs may be of some therapeutic benefit. Key Messages: Multiple studies have shown the utility of ERAs in CKD. These agents have shown to reduce blood pressure, proteinuria, and arterial stiffness. However, more clinical trials are needed, and the results of active or recently concluded studies are eagerly awaited.
Testosterone Therapy in Adolescent Boys: The Need for a Structured Approach
Authors: Stancampiano Marianna Rita , Lucas-Herald Angela K. , Russo Gianni , Rogol Alan D. , Ahmed S. Faisal
Published: December 2019

Background: In adolescents, testosterone may have several effects including promotion of secondary sexual characteristics and pubertal growth, attainment of optimal muscle mass and peak bone mass, optimization of the metabolic profile, and psychosocial maturation and well-being. Summary: Testosterone therapy is a cornerstone of the management of hypogonadism in boys. Since the initial report of the chemical synthesis of testosterone, several formulations have continued to develop, and although many of these have been used in boys, none of them have been studied in detail in this age group. Given the wide ranging effects of testosterone, the level of evidence for their effects in boys and the heterogeneity of conditions that lead to early-onset hypogonadism, a standardized protocol for monitoring testosterone replacement in this age group is needed. Key Messages: In this review, we focus on the perceived benefits of androgen replacement in boys affected by pubertal delay and highlight the need to improve the health monitoring of boys who receive androgen replacement therapy, proposing different approaches based on the underlying pathophysiology.
Hair Cortisol Concentration in Healthy Children and Adolescents Is Related to Puberty, Age, Gender, and Body Mass Index
Authors: Wagner Maximiliane , Kratzsch Jürgen , Vogel Mandy , Peschel Thomas , Gaudl Alexander , Ceglarek Uta , Thiery Joachim , Hiemisch Andreas , Körner Antje , Kiess Wieland
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) have been found to be related to various common childhood diseases, like otitis media, conjunctivitis, respiratory viral infections, and asthma. However, the confounding effects of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), pubertal stage (Tanner stages), socioeconomic status (SES) as well as of some hair maintenance procedures on HCC are still not well examined. Methods: A population-based cohort of 434 children aged between 5 and 18 years was examined for HCC between January 2012 and February 2015 in the context of the Leipzig Research Centre for Civilization Diseases (LIFE) Child study. Thereby, anthropometric data, gender, BMI, SES and pubertal status were assessed. HCC was measured by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Results: In the total cohort, HCC levels ranged between 0.95 and 29.86 pg/mg. In prepuberty, boys showed significantly higher HCC than girls (6.54 vs. 3.73 pg/mg, p < 0.05). During puberty HCC values in both genders converged. Higher BMI was significantly associated with higher HCC in both genders. In girls, HCC did not differ depending on Tanner stages. In boys, HCC was significantly higher in Tanner stage 1 than in stages 2–5. Conclusion: Measuring cortisol concentration in hair gives information about long-term release of cortisol. We have found that puberty, gender, and BMI had a profound effect on HCC. As a result, further research should take into account the potentially confounding role of puberty, gender and BMI and may use the results of our study as a reference at determining values of HCC in healthy children.
КОМПЛЕКСНИЙ СТАТИСТИЧНИЙ АНАЛІЗ ДАНИХ МЕДИЧНИХ СПОСТЕРЕЖЕНЬ ЗА ДІТЬМИ З ГОСТРОЮ ХІРУРГІЧНОЮ ПАТОЛОГІЄЮ
Authors: Yegorov S. V. , Koriashkina L. S. , Symonets I. Yu.
Published: December 2019

Запропонована методика комплексного статистичного аналізу даних спостережень за станом дітей із хірургічною патологією двох вікових груп. Представлено результати програмної реалізації розробленого алгоритму. Виявлений терапевтичний ефект від застосування кожного з трьох лікарських засобів — розчину на основі глюкози з додаванням електролітів, кри-сталоїдних розчинів Рінгера лактат та малат. Наведено порівняльну характеристику дії лікарських засобів у різних вікових групах пацієнтів.
The Neural Consequences of Attentional Prioritization of Internal Representations in Visual Working Memory
Authors: Sahan Muhammet I. , Sheldon Andrew D. , Postle Bradley R.
Published: December 2019

Although humans can hold multiple items in mind simultaneously, the contents of working memory (WM) can be selectively prioritized to guide future behavior. We explored whether the “same-object” benefits in visual processing may also be observed in visual WM. fMRI data were collected while participants performed a multistep serial retrocuing task in which they first viewed two 2-D objects (coherently moving colored dots). During retention, an initial relevance cue then indicated whether only the first or only the second object (“object-relevant”), or only the color of both objects or only their direction of motion would be relevant for the remainder of the trial (“feature-relevant”). On “object-relevant” trials, the ensuing priority cues selected either one of the features (“color” or “direction”) bound to the relevance-cued object, whereas on “feature-relevant” trials, the priority cues selected one of the two relevance-cued features. Using multivariate inverted encoding models, we found a same-object benefit on object-relevant trials in occipitotemporal regions: On feature-relevant trials, the first priority cue triggered a strengthening of the neural representation of the cued feature and a concomitant weakening to baseline of the uncued feature, whereas on object-relevant trials, the cued item remained active but did not increase in strength and the uncued item weakened but remained significantly elevated throughout the delay period. Although the stimulus-specific representation in frontoparietal regions was weak and uneven, these regions closely tracked the higher order information of which stimulus category was relevant for behavior throughout the trial, suggesting an important role in controlling the prioritization of information in visual WM.
A Sectoral Application of the Polluter Pays Principle: Lessons Learned from the Aviation Sector
Authors: Leclerc Thomas
Published: December 2019

The search for a global market-based measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international civil aviation has faced legal obstacles. One of these is linked to the basis of such a measure: the polluter pays principle. The application of the principle in the aviation legal regime has resulted in a conflict of norms. As a solution, the International Civil Aviation Organization, in 2016, adopted a market-based measure in the form of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (corsia). This article will address the following two questions: By adopting corsia, and by negotiating its implementation, has icao produced a successful integration of the polluter pays principle in a sectoral legal regime of norms and institutions? If yes, could icao’s success provide arguments for a sectoral application of the polluter pays principle more broadly in public international law?
The Politics of Health Devolution in the Philippines: Experiences of Municipalities in a Devolved Set-up
Authors: Atienza Maria Ela L.
Published: December 2019

This paper analyzes the dynamics of health devolution in the Philippines within the context of the 1991 Local Government Code. The paper looks into how the present level of health devolution came about, the reform's impact on the public health system, and the factors involved in improving health service delivery in municipalities under a devolved set up. There are several variables that are tested as possible intervening variables. These are prioritization of health services in resource allocation and management, adequacy of formal health personnel and facilities, and citizens' participation in health service delivery. The sociopolitical context of the local government is also explored. Two case studies are presented to support the arguments of the paper.
Congressional Intervention in Philippine Post-Cold War Defense Policy, 1991-2003
Authors: Castro Renato Cruz De
Published: December 2019

This essay analyzes the Armed forces of the Philippines' (AFP) modernization program as a case study of how the legislature was able to influence a state's strategic doctrine and posture. The withdrawal of American forces in 1992, and the challenge poised by China in the mid-90s created the expectation that the Philippines was to embark on an arms modernization program that would develop the armed forces' autonomous and external defense capability. However, almost a decade after the program was annovnced and almost seven years after an AFP modernization /ow was passed, the Philippine military has yet to implement any meaningful change in its strategic doctrine and posture. The essay observes that a political stasis-the post-1986 Philippine Congress' reassertion of its authority-played a very important role in impeding any doctrinal change in the country's defense establishment and preventing the Philippine military from diverting scarce resources to the country's defense needs. It maintains that current developments in Philippine defense policy point to a return to a dose security relationship with the United States. This, in turn, will hinder the AFP from pursuing the initial goals of its modernization program-autonomy and capacity to address external security threats. In conclusion, the essay asserts that the current conservatism in the country's strategic affairs reflects the political stasis in Philippine society, which is a result of the restoration of elite democracy and the continuing ability of the political elite to use Congress to shape the country's defense affairs.
Failures at the National Level: The Diffusion of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Philippines
Authors: Misalucha Charmaine
Published: December 2019

This article argues that the Philippines' small arms control measures have failed. This failure is seen in two ways. First, statements issued by the Philippines in the 2007 United Nations (UN) Conference on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in AI/ Its Aspects and the follow-up 2003 Biennial Meeting of States on the Implementation of the Program of Action of the previous conference are partly inconsistent with the national laws instituted in the country. Another way of looking at the failure of the Philippines in controlling the diffusion of small arms in its territory is through the conflict in Mindanao. The national mechanisms currently in place are insufficient to address this problem because the influx of weapons continues, further intensifying the conflict.
The Information and Communication Technology and Electoral Modernization: Lessons from the Philippines
Authors: Kimura Masataka
Published: December 2019

This essay examines the history of electoral modernization in the Philippines from its beginning in the early 1990s to the present. The essay identifies the problems the country has encountered and accomplishments it has achieved and draws lessons from these experiences which may be useful for electoral modernization in other countries with similar socioeconomic conditions. It will become clear that not only the characteristics of the technologies but also political, legal, administrative, economic, and even socio-cultural factors have significant influence, both positive and negative, on the modernization process.
Implications of Economic Globalization on Labor Market Policies: A Comparative study of the Philippines and Indonesia
Authors: Viajar Verna Dinah Q.
Published: December 2019

This essay examines the implications of economic globalization on the labor markets in the Philippines and Indonesia. Today’s economic globalization characterized by liberalization of the market, privatization of state-owned enterprises, and minimal government intervention in the economy, results in job losses, retrenchments and irregular employment and rising wage differentials among workers. Both countries follow liberal economic policies that have constrained the state’s response in terms of labor market policies to mitigate the negative impact of economic globalization. Free market proponents consider as labor rigidities the state’s policy interventions in the labor market and the participation of trade unions. Labor flexibility and the free interplay of labor supply and demand are the ones valued in the liberalized labor market. Though constrained and weakened to address the economic restructuring brought about by globalization, the labor movements in the Philippines and Indonesia continue to find ways to develop new unionisms and strategies to organize themselves as social movements.
Is Social Media a Digital Pulpit? How Evangelical Leaders Use Twitter to Encourage the Faithful and Publicize Their Work
Authors: Burge Ryan P. , Williams Miles D.
Published: December 2019

Social media is altering how some religious leaders communicate with their followers and with the public. This has the potential to challenge theories of religious communication that have been developed through the study of traditional modes such as sermons. This study examines how leaders in U.S. evangelicalism take advantage of the public platform provided by Twitter. Using over 85,000 tweets from 88 prominent evangelical leaders, we find that these leaders often use their social media platforms as a natural extension of their current modes of communication. More specifically, evangelical leaders use their account to encourage and inspire their followers, while also conveying information about upcoming personal projects such as tours and book releases. In a small number of cases, evangelical leaders do make reference to political issues, but those individuals are ones who have already built a brand based on political commentary. Speaking broadly, the usage of political language by evangelical leaders is rare. The paper concludes with a discussion of how this analysis advances theories of religion and communication.KeywordsTwitter – social media – evangelicals – leaders
The Politics of the Veil in Medieval Christianity
Authors: Shuve Karl
Published: December 2019

Saba Mahmood begins Politics of Piety with a question: ‘[H]ow should issues of historical and cultural specificity inform both the analytics and the politics of any feminist project?’ She notes that while many forms of ‘difference’ have been integrated within feminist theory, ‘religious difference’ has received comparatively little emphasis. She attributes this to the ‘vexing relationship between feminism and religion,’ arising from feminism’s firm situation within ‘secular-liberal politics.’ In this essay, I explore how Mahmood’s insights might enrich the study of premodern Christianity. My particular focus will be a central, yet highly contested, aspect of medieval women’s piety: the practice of nuns taking the veil during consecration, marking them as ‘brides of Christ’. I hope, with Mahmood, to consider how an analysis of ‘the particular form that the body takes might transform our conceptual understanding of the act itself’, offering new possibilities for the practice of feminist historiography.
Unfinished Conversations with Saba Mahmood
Authors: Doughan Sultan , Landry Jean-Michel
Published: December 2019

Saba Mahmood kept open the definitions of her objects of inquiry. She focused on objects such as secularism, piety, and ethics in order to demonstrate what they usher into existence, neutralize, rearrange or disrupt. This mode of inquiry generated a host of questions and opened up new conversations with ongoing trajectories. Influenced by this mode of inquiry, we organized this special issue along the analyses, reflections, and conversations that she opened up, beyond the circle of her interlocutors.
The “Redemption” of Redemptive Societies
Authors: Ownby David
Published: December 2019

“Redemptive societies” is a term often used to refer to the organized expression of salvationist religious activity in Republican period China. These groups were a major part of Chinese social and cultural life in the decades preceding the Communist revolution, and are related, in ways that remain unclear, to the “White Lotus” sectarian traditions under the dynasties, and to the qigong boom of the 1980s and 1990s. This article assesses the state of the field of studies on redemptive societies, and offers suggestions for its future development.
Evolution of Stray Dog’s Control in Italy
Authors: Levi Diana
Published: December 2019

During the last 30 years the law regarding stray dogs in Italy evolved from employing euthanasia for these dogs after three days, to long term kenneling of all dogs not seriously or incurably ill or proven aggressive. This was a highly ethical law whose application was extremely difficult because of the lack of financial resources and adequate kenneling facilities. It is fair, necessary and urgent to adopt ethical choices in managing problems connected with stray dogs but decisions must be taken in consideration with thorough evaluation of the situation. Is long term kenneling a correct way to safeguard dogs’ welfare? Are there tools available to evaluate the welfare of these dogs? The available data about the number of stray dogs, both in kennels and roaming, are up to date? Are there financial resources available? Do the structures necessary to accommodate these animals exist and are they adequate? Countries that still have a kill policy should consider these aspects before legislating on this issue.
Simone de Beauvoir et l’ « autobiographie existentialiste »
Authors: Jeannelle Jean-Louis
Published: December 2019

Nous verrons que le désintérêt à peine voilé de Michael Sheringham, comme de Philippe Lejeune avant lui, à l’ égard des Mémoires d’ une jeune fille rangée tient à leur valorisation excessive du pacte autobiographique. Or, tout en s’ inscrivant dans la nébuleuse des autobiographies existentialistes, le récit de Simone de Beauvoir s’ en démarque, en particulier par le rôle qu’ y joue le genre des Mémoires en creux, ou plus précisément à l’ horizon du texte de 1958. Il s’ agira de montrer que le premier volume du cycle beauvoirien occupe au sein des récits de soi existentialistes une place beaucoup plus centrale que ne l’ envisageait Sheringham dans French Autobiography.
Beauvoir and The Second Sex
Authors: Simons Margaret A.
Published: December 2019

Colette Audry pointed to a mystery in observing that during the 1930s Simone de Beauvoir had not been concerned with the “woman question” and that her friend must have encountered a “serious obstacle” that “made her change her mind” and write The Second Sex. Unfortunately, Beauvoir obscured the genesis of her most important work. Using evidence uncovered by her biographers about her relationship with Sartre, and digging more deeply into their posthumously published letters and diaries, this paper uncovers a series of events that together tell a likely story of Beauvoir’s feminist turning point.
L’analisi ġazaliana del concetto di ittiḥād
Authors: Peta Ines
Published: December 2019

The aim of this contribution is to highlight al-Ġazālī’s account of ittiḥād or “union” with God; to this purpose, we have traced and examined, within his works, the various passages dedicated to the subject. This analysis shows that al-Ġazālī, although critical of the doctrine of ittiḥād understood in the literal sense, accepts it in a metaphorical way, interpreting it as the state of obliteration of the self (fanā’) in the divine uniqueness (tawḥīd). Even though he defines tawḥīd, in its highest sense, as “not seeing in existence but One”, the terminological and content analysis of the ġazalian passages clearly shows, in our opinion, that he does not adhere to the monism inherent in the so-called waḥdat al-wujūd; on the contrary he strongly supports the monotheistic paradigm. The assertion that God is the only real existent – to be understood in Avicennan terms as the only necessarily existent –, does not imply in fact that creatures are deprived of their own substantial reality and is therefore consistent with the statement that everything has God as its sole creator. In this sense, the ġazalian need to point out that the “absorption” of the Sufi into God is not ittiḥād but tawḥīd is not a mere terminological issue or an instrumental attempt to make “orthodox” an “heterodox” doctrine, but it is the proper expression of the true meaning of that “absorption”, and it’s no coincidence that it corresponds to the foundation of Islam: monotheism.
The Use of English and the National Language on the Radio in asean Countries
Authors: Prasithrathsint Amara , Thongniam Kusuma , Chumkaew Pimpat
Published: December 2019

The purpose of the present study is to examine language choice on the radio in asean countries. The focus is on English and national languages, the two most important languages in those countries. A review of related past studies did not provide an answer to the question that we were interested in; i.e., which language is chosen for radio broadcasts in asean countries between the national language, which is the language most people understand and signifies national identity, and English, which is the lingua franca of the region and an international language? Data was taken from a sample of programs broadcast by radio stations in the ten asean countries. The results show that Singapore ranks the highest in using English in broadcasting (50% of all the programs), while Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam rank the lowest in using English (0%) but highest in using their national languages (100%). Code-switching between the countries’ national languages and English is found in five countries listed from highest to lowest as: the Philippines, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia and Thailand. Code-switching is absent in Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. We conclude that despite the importance of English in the asean community, most asean countries prefer to use their national languages in radio broadcasting.