bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prezado afilhado José, recebi sua carta, que li com a maior atenção: escritos da Goméia a José Daniel das Neves (1948-1972)
Authors: Mendes Andrea
Published: April 2021

O presente artigo se propõe a apresentar uma seleção de correspondências pertencentes à coleção particular de José Daniel das Neves (1937-2009), conhecido no culto como Tata Lemba Nanguê, Ogan José Daniel ou simplesmente Zé Daniel da Goméia. Sendo até hoje uma das grandes referências da Goméia, apadrinhado e confirmado no candomblé por Joãozinho, em Salvador, José Daniel agrupou uma pequena série de cartas endereçadas a ele ou à sua mãe, enviadas por Joãozinho e outras pessoas vinculadas à Goméia, formando um acervo composto, além das cartas, por recortes de jornais e revistas, fotografias e outros elementos ligados à memória de seu padrinho e tata de inquice.          A carta, comumente utilizada como meio de comunicação, é um gênero de escrita cuja importância ultrapassa a função meramente comunicativa, e que oscila no fio tênue que divide os limites fronteiriços entre o público e o privado. Para além do fato de conter elementos ligados à vida privada dos personagens envolvidos, a escrita epistolar pode servir como fonte para a pesquisa histórica, revelando particularidades do cotidiano dos correspondentes em questão, bem como de seu entorno e contexto histórico, a partir de fragmentos que podem ser extraídos e confrontados com outras fontes documentais. Esses fragmentos, como pequenos indícios apontados por Carlo Ginzburg no exercício da pesquisa histórica, podem servir como recurso valioso na busca da compreensão sobre o percurso de Joãozinho e sua comunidade religiosa.
O transplante acrítico de sentenças estrangeiras: cavalo de Tróia para as demandas estruturais no Brasil
Authors: Serafim Matheus Casimiro Gomes , Lima Francisco Gérson Marques de
Published: April 2021

Estuda-se o processo de importação de sentenças estruturais para o Brasil, analisando os riscos que um transplante jurídico acrítico apresenta para a eficiência das demandas estruturais no país. Atualmente, há uma tentativa de importar precedentes estrangeiros para solucionar os litígios estruturais. Esse transplante, todavia, tem sido feito de forma acrítica, sem a devida análise do contexto legal e cultural para o qual essas sentenças foram desenvolvidas, bem como sem as devidas adaptações à nova realidade. Analisado casos paradigmáticos para o desenvolvimento do Estado de Coisas Inconstitucional e do Compromisso Significativo, intenta-se demonstrar como uma importação descuidada desses institutos pode comprometer a eficiência das demandas estruturais nas quais forem utilizados. Dessa forma, constata-se que a importação acrítica transforma essas sentenças em verdadeiros cavalos de troia: em um primeiro momento, aparentam ser a solução de muitos problemas, mas na verdade são aplicadas no país de forma indevida, trazendo consigo falhas ocorridas no país de origem, e que poderiam ser evitadas em um processo de tradução jurídica mais atenta à realidade original desses institutos. Além disso, conclui-se que a ideia de tradução jurídico-cultural pode tornar mais eficiente a importação de sentenças estruturais.
Os direitos dos índios e da guerra segundo Francisco de Vitória: leitura das primeira e segunda relectii sobre os direitos dos índios e da guerra
Authors: Guimarães Hiago Mendes
Published: April 2021

Trata de uma revisão das primeira e segunda relectii de Francisco de Vitória sobre os direitos dos índios e da guerra, respectivamente. O objetivo é proporcionar uma leitura organizada dos argumentos e pontos essenciais levantados por Vitória no que diz respeito aos título alegados e alegáveis pela coroa espanhola para a conquista do Novo Mundo; bem como sistematizar os elementos de guerra justa explorados pelo autor, de acordo com a divisão contemporânea jus ad bellum, jus in bello e jus post bellum. Neste sentido, obtemos como resultado uma visão em perspectiva da visão política e jurídica apresentada por um dos principais autores no contexto da colonização das américas. É possível observar, ainda, os esforços presentes na escolástica tardia para adequação às mudanças correntes no século XVI, como maior atenção às letras clássicas, interesse voltado para questões atuais e práticas de interesse de estatal. Além, por certo, da forma como a humanidade ameríndia era percebida pelo autor, em uma contribuição para compreender os termos empregados pelos colonizadores dada sua chegada em um novo mundo.
A critical evaluation of the National Innovation Accelerator programme: comparing eHealth and medical device-based innovations
Authors: Mansel Clayton , Sarnataro Raffaele , Liu Peter Jianrui
Published: April 2021

Background/Aims

The National Innovation Accelerator was developed in 2014 to increase the uptake of innovation across the NHS by providing strategic funding to candidates. This study aimed to critically evaluate the success of the National Innovation Accelerator in supporting innovation in the NHS.

Methods

Innovations that were supported by the National Innovation Accelerator were categorised into ‘eHealth’, ‘healthcare centre medical devices’, ‘mobile medical devices’ and ‘other’. Peer-reviewed literature was used to assess all innovation types. For eHealth innovations, organic website traffic and app store reviews were also used to assess patient engagement and popularity.

Results

The majority of innovations supported by the programme were categorised as eHealth; however, these were also more likely to be unsuccessful in terms of patient engagement. Meanwhile, healthcare centre and mobile medical devices were likely to be supported by peer-reviewed studies and clinical trials.

Conclusions

The success of the National Innovation Accelerator in supporting healthcare innovation varies depending on the type of innovation, with innovations in medical devices achieving greater success than eHealth innovations.
The professionalisation of domiciliary care workers in England following COVID-19
Authors: Itua Imose , Sheppy Bruce , McIntosh Bryan
Published: April 2021

The growing pressure of an ageing population has resulted in an increased focus and interest in home or domiciliary care. This, plus changing lifestyle trends and the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitates a review of care in the UK. The number of domiciliary carers has increased; of the 1.62 million social workers active in 2018, 685 000 were categorised as domiciliary carers. However, this group of carers are not recognised as healthcare professionals. Indeed, there is no formal recognition or definition of the role of the carer in the UK, and there seems to be an overlap between support workers and carers, without adequate explanation of what either of these roles mean in practice. This article highlights the need to pay particular attention to this care sector, particularly in light of both the COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit.
Urinary incontinence in older adults: what you need to know
Authors: Kataria Krishma , Ilsley Amy
Published: April 2021

Incontinence is a problem that can affect individuals of all ages. However, it is more frequently seen in older adults. It is a common geriatric syndrome, and its investigation should form part of a comprehensive geriatric assessment. Continence problems are usually ignored by patients and not reported to a medical professional, but with simple assessment and even simpler interventions, a significant improvement can be made for those living with incontinence. Most cases need a simple clinical assessment consisting of a good history and basic examination covering the abdomen, external genitalia and rectum. If no reversible causes are found, further investigations can be considered. The treatment for incontinence can be split into non-surgical and surgical management. Simple conservative measures, such as education around fluid intake, weight loss, managing constipation and pelvic floor exercises, can make a huge and positive impact on managing incontinence. If these are not effective, pharmaceutical therapies and surgical management can be considered, but there needs to be a careful consideration of the risk vs benefit in frail older adults.
A Generalized Two Phase Sampling Estimator of Ratio of Population Means Using Auxiliary Information
Authors: Ahuja Tarunpreet Kaur , Misra Peeyush , Belwal O. K.
Published: April 2021

This paper addresses the problem of estimating ratio of two population means by using quantitative auxiliary knowledge in the form of first and second moments. Through this paper, an improved generalized two phase sampling estimator has been proposed. The relative bias and mean squared error of the suggested estimator has been derived and studied. Also, a comparative study with the conventional estimators has been included to establish its superiority. Besides theoretical comparisons, a subset of optimum estimators having the same minimum mean squared error (MSE) is also explored. An empirical study is also carried out to support theoretical results.
Analysis of performance and robustness against jitter of various search methods for acquiring optical links in space
Authors: Hechenblaikner Gerald
Published: April 2021

We discuss various methods for acquiring optical links in space using a dedicated acquisition sensor. Statistical models are developed and simple analytical equations derived that compare the performance between a single- and dual-spiral scan approach as well as between sequential and parallel acquisition of link chains. Simple derived analytical equations allow relating essential search parameters such as track width, variance of the uncertainty distribution, capture radius, and scan speed to the probabilities of acquiring the links within a specific time. We also assess the probability of failing to acquire a link due to beam jitter and derive a simple analytical model that allows determining the maximum tolerable jitter for a given beam overlap and required probability of success. All results are validated by Monte Carlo simulations and applied to the concrete example of the GRACE FO mission.
Ambient temperature effect on the imaging quality of an aspherical airborne camera: theoretical and experimental analysis
Authors: Tian Jiahang , Lin Jieqiong , Lu Mingming , Ran Tonghuan , Zhou Jiakang
Published: April 2021

The ambient temperature is one of the important factors that affects the imaging quality of aspherical airborne camera. In order to evaluate the imaging quality of an airborne camera under the effect of ambient temperature and predict the influence of the ambient temperature on the modulation transfer function (MTF) of the airborne camera, on the basis of the imaging principle and the material properties of lenses of the airborne camera, this study integrates theoretical analysis, simulation analysis, and experimental tests to study the influence of ambient temperature on the imaging performance of airborne cameras. The imaging performance of an airborne camera is characterized by using the MTF. First, a mathematical model is presented to analyze the effect of ambient temperature on the MTF of the airborne camera. Then the simulation analysis and experiment tests are, respectively, proposed. The results of the mathematical model are compared, respectively, with the results of the simulation analysis and experimental test, and the comparison shows that the variation trends of the mathematical model results are in line with the simulation results and the experimental results, respectively. Therefore, the mathematical model presented in this study is effective for analyzing the influence of ambient temperature variation on the MTF of airborne cameras.
Possible use of fluorescence from iodine blocking filter in high-spectral-resolution lidar to detect Mie scattering signals
Authors: Sugimoto Nobuo , Jin Yoshitaka , Nishizawa Tomoaki
Published: April 2021

The detection of atmospheric backscattering signals using fluorescence from an iodine blocking filter in high-spectral-resolution lidar was studied experimentally. The efficiency of detection is determined by the fluorescence quantum efficiency and the optical efficiency of collecting fluorescence. The quantum efficiency was estimated to be

∼

0.08

from the measured fluorescence lifetime of 0.18 µs and the radiative lifetime of 2.3 µs estimated from the literature. The efficiency of collecting fluorescence was low (

∼

0.008

) in the current system. Measurements of atmospheric backscattering were performed, and it was confirmed that the method actually detected the Mie scattering component of the signal.
Automatic traffic monitoring by ϕ-OTDR data and Hough transform in a real-field environment
Authors: Catalano Ester , Coscetta Agnese , Cerri Enis , Cennamo Nunzio , Zeni Luigi , Minardo A.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we demonstrate automatic vehicle detection and counting by processing data acquired using a phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometer (

ϕ

-OTDR) distributed optical fiber sensor. The acquired data are processed using the Hough transform, which detects the lines in the images formed by representing the acquired data in the space–time domain. A rough classification of the vehicles (heavy versus light vehicles) is also proposed, based on the amplitude of the vibration data along the detected lines. The method has been experimentally tested by performing

ϕ

-OTDR measurements along a telecommunication fiber cable running in a buried conduit along the state road SS18 (province of Salerno, Italy), opened to normal traffic. Comparison with ground-truth data, manually generated by inspecting video recordings, allowed us to estimate a vehicle detection success rate up to 73%, while heavy vehicles were fully detected.
Ultrawide FSR microring racetrack resonator with an integrated Fabry–Perot cavity for refractive index sensing
Authors: Kumar Bag Saawan , Varshney Shailendra K.
Published: April 2021

We propose a simple route to obtain an ultrawide free spectral range (FSR) using a composite racetrack microring resonator (RMRR) with Fabry–Perot cavities. The presence of two Fabry–Perot cavities in the straight arm of the RMRR suppresses other peaks while yielding a single resonance dip with a high extinction ratio. A comprehensive, detailed mathematical description and finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations investigate the proposed device performances. The modified RMRR yields an FSR value greater than 150 nm while retaining the unmodified ring resonator’s

Q

-factor. Other than its application in communications, the device also will be highly useful for sensing. FDTD simulations show a sensitivity of 185 nm/RIU, which is 2.6 times larger than the unmodified RMRR. The proposed device also enjoys compactness and a wide tunability range and has less fabrication complexity. The proposed sensor could be a strong candidate in optical communications, optical switching, and many other applications.
Predictors of preterm birth in Western Ethiopia: A case control study
Authors: Regasa Misganu Teshoma , Hinkosa Leta , Besho Merga , Bekele Tilahun , Bekuma Tariku Tesfaye , Tsegaye Reta , Hirko Getahun Fetensa , Markos Jote , Wakgari Aga
Published: April 2021

Background

Early neonatal death caused by preterm birth contributes the most for perinatal death. The prevalence of preterm birth continues to rise and is a significant public health problem. The exact cause of preterm birth is yet unanswered, as mostly preterm birth happens spontaneously. Predictors of preterm birth in developing countries like Ethiopia were not well investigated, and no study was conducted before this in the study area.

Objectives

To identify predictors of preterm birth in Western Ethiopia, 2017/2018.

Methods

Health facility-based unmatched case-control study was conducted from October 20/2017-march 20/2018 in 4 Hospitals. A total sample size of 358 women was recruited. From this 72 were cases and 286 were controls. Cases were mothers who gave Preterm birth, and controls were mothers who gave birth at term. Ethical clearance was obtained from Wollega University ethical review committee. A pre tested, structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data entry and analysis was done using Epi Data 3.1 and SPSS version 21, respectively. Logistic regression was done to identify predictors of preterm birth.

Result

Three hundred fifty-eight women participated in this study of which 72 were cases and 286 were controls; making the overall response rate of 100%. Lack of antenatal care visit [AOR = 3.18, 95% CI 1.37–7.38]),(Having 1–2 antenatal care visit [AOR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.18–4.35]),history of previous preterm)[AOR = 5.19, 95% CI1.29–20.88],Short Interpregnancy Interval [AOR = 4.41.95% CI 2.05–9.47],Having Reproductive tract infections [AOR = 2.54, 95% CI 1.02–6.32] and having Obstetric complications [AOR = 2.48,95% CI 1.31–4.71] were found to be predictors of preterm birth.

Conclusion and recommendation

Risk factors of preterm delivery are multifactorial and depend on geographical and demographic features of the population studied. Hence results of studies from one area might not be applicable to another area. Antenatal care visits are unique opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment of problems. Therefore, antenatal care should be strengthened, and appropriate counseling should be given at each antenatal care follow up. Maintainning optimum birth interval through family planning, and early identification and treatment of reproductive tract infections are mandatory.
An investigation of health insurance policy and behavior in a virtual environment
Authors: Tracy J. Dustin , James Kevin A. , Kaplan Hillard , Rassenti Stephen
Published: April 2021

We introduce a new experimental approach to measuring the effects of health insurance policy alternatives on behavior and health outcomes over the life course. In a virtual environment with multi-period lives, subjects earn virtual income and allocate spending, to maximize utility, which is converted into cash payment. We compare behavior across age, income and insurance plans—one priced according to an individual’s expected cost and the other uniformly priced through employer-implemented cost sharing. We find that 1) subjects in the employer-implemented plan purchased insurance at higher rates; 2) the employer-based plan reduced differences due to income and age; 3) subjects in the actuarial plan engaged in more health-promoting behaviors, but still below optimal levels, and did save at the level required, so did realize the full benefits of the plan. Subjects had more difficulty optimizing choices in the Actuarial treatment, because it required more long term planning and evaluating benefits that compounded over time. Contrary, to model predictions, the actuarial priced insurance plan did not increase utility relative to the employer-based plan.
Trajectories of healthy ageing among older adults with multimorbidity: A growth mixture model using harmonised data from eight ATHLOS cohorts
Authors: Nguyen Hai , Moreno-Agostino Dario , Chua Kia-Chong , Vitoratou Silia , Prina A. Matthew
Published: April 2021

Objectives

In this study we aimed to 1) describe healthy ageing trajectory patterns, 2) examine the association between multimorbidity and patterns of healthy ageing trajectories, and 3) evaluate how different groups of diseases might affect the projection of healthy ageing trajectories over time.

Setting and participants

Our study was based on 130880 individuals from the Ageing Trajectories of Health: Longitudinal Opportunities and Synergies (ATHLOS) harmonised dataset, as well as 9171 individuals from Waves 2–7 of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA).

Methods

Using a healthy ageing index score, which comprised 41 items, covering various domains of health and ageing, as outcome, we employed the growth mixture model approach to identify the latent classes of individuals with different healthy ageing trajectories. A multinomial logistic regression was conducted to assess if and how multimorbidity status and multimorbidity patterns were associated with changes in healthy ageing, controlled for sociodemographic and lifestyle risk factors.

Results

Three similar patterns of healthy ageing trajectories were identified in the ATHLOS and ELSA datasets: 1) a ‘high stable’ group (76% in ATHLOS, 61% in ELSA), 2) a ‘low stable’ group (22% in ATHLOS, 36% in ELSA) and 3) a ‘rapid decline’ group (2% in ATHLOS, 3% in ELSA). Those with multimorbidity were 1.7 times (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.4–2.1) more likely to be in the ‘rapid decline’ group and 11.7 times (OR = 11.7 95% CI: 10.9–12.6) more likely to be in the ‘low stable’ group, compared with people without multimorbidity. The cardiorespiratory/arthritis/cataracts group was associated with both the ‘rapid decline’ and the ‘low stable’ groups (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.2–3.8 and OR = 9.8, 95% CI: 7.5–12.7 respectively).

Conclusion

Healthy ageing is heterogeneous. While multimorbidity was associated with higher odds of having poorer healthy ageing trajectories, the extent to which healthy ageing trajectories were projected to decline depended on the specific patterns of multimorbidity.
Naïve plant communities and individuals may initially suffer in the face of reintroduced megafauna: An experimental exploration of rewilding from an African savanna rangeland
Authors: Young Truman P. , Kimuyu Duncan M. , Odadi Wilfred O. , Wells Harry B. M. , Wolf Amelia A.
Published: April 2021

Excluding large native mammals is an inverse test of rewilding. A 25-year exclosure experiment in an African savanna rangeland offers insight into the potentials and pitfalls of the rewilding endeavor as they relate to the native plant community. A broad theme that has emerged from this research is that entire plant communities, as well as individual plants, adjust to the absence of herbivores in ways that can ill-prepare them for the return of these herbivores. Three lines of evidence suggest that these “naïve” individuals, populations, and communities are likely to initially suffer from herbivore rewilding. First, plots protected from wild herbivores for the past 25 years have developed rich diversity of woody plants that are absent from unfenced plots, and presumably would disappear upon rewilding. Second, individuals of the dominant tree in this system, Acacia drepanolobium, greatly reduce their defences in the absence of browsers, and the sudden arrival of these herbivores (in this case, through a temporary fence break), resulted in far greater elephant damage than for their conspecifics in adjacent plots that had been continually exposed to herbivory. Third, the removal of herbivores favoured the most palatable grass species, and a large number of rarer species, which presumably would be at risk from herbivore re-introduction. In summary, the native communities that we observe in defaunated landscapes may be very different from their pre-defaunation states, and we are likely to see some large changes to these plant communities upon rewilding with large herbivores, including potential reductions in plant diversity. Lastly, our experimental manipulation of cattle represents an additional test of the role of livestock in rewilding. Cattle are in many ways ecologically dissimilar to wildlife (in particular their greater densities), but in other ways they may serve as ecological surrogates for wildlife, which could buffer ecosystems from some of the ecological costs of rewilding. More fundamentally, African savannah ecosystems represent a challenge to traditional Western definitions of “wilderness” as ecosystems free of human impacts. We support the suggestion that as we “rewild” our biodiversity landscapes, we redefine “wildness” in the 21st Century to be inclusive of (low impact, and sometimes traditional) human practices that are compatible with the sustainability of native (and re-introduced) biodiversity.
A modified truncated distribution for modeling the heavy tail, engineering and environmental sciences data
Authors: Gul Ahtasham , Mohsin Muhammad , Adil Muhammad , Ali Mansoor
Published: April 2021

Truncated models are imperative to efficiently analyze the finite data that we observe in almost all the real life situations. In this paper, a new truncated distribution having four parameters named Weibull-Truncated Exponential Distribution (W-TEXPD) is developed. The proposed model can be used as an alternative to the Exponential, standard Weibull and shifted Gamma-Weibull and three parameter Weibull distributions. The statistical characteristics including cumulative distribution function, hazard function, cumulative hazard function, central moments, skewness, kurtosis, percentile and entropy of the proposed model are derived. The maximum likelihood estimation method is employed to evaluate the unknown parameters of the W-TEXPD. A simulation study is also carried out to assess the performance of the model parameters. The proposed probability distribution is fitted on five data sets from different fields to demonstrate its vast application. A comparison of the proposed model with some extant models is given to justify the performance of the W-TEXPD.
Genomic diversity and molecular epidemiology of Pasteurella multocida
Authors: Smith Emily , Miller Elizabeth , Aguayo Jeannette Munoz , Figueroa Cristian Flores , Nezworski Jill , Studniski Marissa , Wileman Ben , Johnson Timothy
Published: April 2021

Pasteurella multocidais a bacterial pathogen with the ability to infect a multitude of hosts including humans, companion animals, livestock, and wildlife. This study used bioinformatic approaches to explore the genomic diversity of 656P.multocidaisolates and epidemiological associations between host factors and specific genotypes. Isolates included in this study originated from a variety of hosts, including poultry, cattle, swine, rabbits, rodents, and humans, from five different continents. Multi-locus sequence typing identified 69 different sequence types.In-silicomethodology for determining capsular serogroup was developed, validated, and applied to all genome sequences, whereby capsular serogroups A, B, D, and F were found. Whole genome phylogeny was constructed from 237,670 core single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and demonstrated an overall lack of host or capsular serogroup specificity, with the exception of isolates from bovine sources. Specific SNVs within thesrlBgene were identified inP.multocidasubsp.septicagenomes, representing specific mutations that may be useful for differentiating one of the three known subspecies. Significant associations were identified between capsular serogroup and virulence factors, including capsular serogroup A and OmpH1, OmpH3, PlpE, and PfhB1; capsular serogroup B and HgbA and PtfA; and capsular serogroup F and PtfA and PlpP. Various mobile genetic elements were identified including those similar to ICEPmu1, ICEhin1056, and IncQ1 plasmids, all of which harbored multiple antimicrobial resistance-encoding genes. Additional analyses were performed on a subset of 99 isolates obtained from turkeys during fowl cholera outbreaks from a single company which revealed that multiple strains ofP.multocidawere circulating during the outbreak, instead of a single, highly virulent clone. This study further demonstrates the extensive genomic diversity ofP.multocida, provides epidemiological context to the various genotyping schemes that have traditionally been used for differentiating isolates, and introduces additional tools forP.multocidamolecular typing.
Utility of Fatty Liver Index to predict reversion to normoglycemia in people with prediabetes
Authors: Busquets-Cortés Carla , Bennasar-Veny Miquel , López-González Ángel Arturo , Fresneda Sergio , Abbate Manuela , Yáñez Aina M.
Published: April 2021

Background

Fatty Liver Index (FLI) is strongly associated with changes in glycemic status and incident Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). The probability of reverting to normoglycemia from a state prediabetes could be determined by FLI, however such relationship remains poorly understood.

Aim

To determine the clinical interest of using FLI to estimate prediabetes reversion at 5 years in patients with impaired fasting plasma glucose at baseline, and identify those factors associated with changes in FLI, that could contribute to the reversion of prediabetes.

Methods

This 5-year cohort study included 16,648 Spanish working adults with prediabetes. Prediabetes was defined as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) between 100 and 125 mg/dl according to the ADA criteria, while prediabetes reversion was defined as a FPG <100 mg/dL. The population was classified as: FLI <30 (no hepatic steatosis), FLI 30–59 (intermediate status), and FLI ≥60 (hepatic steatosis).

Results

At 5 years follow-up, 33.7% of subjects reverted to normoglycemia (annual rate of 6.7%). The adjusted binomial logistic regression model showed that scoring FLI <30 (OR 1.544; 95% CI 1.355–1.759), performing at least 150 min/week of physical activity (OR 4.600; 95% CI 4.088–5.177) and consuming fruits and vegetables daily (OR 1.682; 95% CI 1.526–1.855) were associated with the probability of reverting form prediabetes to normoglycemia. The ROC curve for prediction of reversion showed that FLI (AUC 0.774;95% CI 0.767–0.781) was a better predictor than FPG (AUC 0.656; 95% CI 0.648–0.664).

Conclusions

Regular physical activity, healthy dietary habits and absence of hepatic steatosis are independently associated with the probability of reversion to normoglycemia in adult workers with prediabetes at baseline. Low FLI values (especially FLI< 30) may be useful to predict the probability of prediabetes reversion, especially in active subjects with healthy eating habits, and thus identify those who might benefit from early lifestyle intervention.
Magnitude and associated factors of poor medication adherence among diabetic and hypertensive patients visiting public health facilities in Ethiopia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Shimels Tariku , Asrat Kassu Rodas , Bogale Gelila , Bekele Mahteme , Getnet Melsew , Getachew Abrham , Shewamene Zewdneh , Abraha Mebratu
Published: April 2021

Objective

This study aims to assess the magnitude and associated factors of poor medication adherence among diabetic and hypertensive patients visiting public health facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A multi-site cross-sectional design was conducted from 1st through 30th of August 2020 at public health facilities of the study area. Adult outpatients with T2DM and hypertension visiting hospitals and health centers were included in the study. A proportion to size allocation method was used to determine the required sample size per facility. Data was collected using the 8-item Morisky medication adherence scale. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used to analyze data. A 95% confidence interval and p≤0.05 statistical significance was considered to determine factors associated with poor medication adherence.

Results

A total of 409 patients were included in the present study. About 57% of the patients reported that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed negative impacts on either of their follow-up visits, availability of medications, or affordability of prices. And, 21% have reported that they have been affected in all aspects. The overall magnitude of poor medication adherence was 72%. Patients with extreme poverty were more likely to have good medication adherence (AOR: 0.59; 95%C.I: 0.36–0.97), whereas attendance to a health center (AOR: 1.71; 95%C.I: 1.02–2.85), presence of comorbidity (AOR: 2.05; 95%C.I: 1.13–3.71), and current substance use history (AOR: 11.57; 95%C.I: 1.52–88.05) predicted high odds of poor adherence.

Conclusion

Over a three-fourth of the patients, in the study setting, have poor adherence to their anti-diabetic and antihypertensive medications. Health facility type, income level, comorbidity, and current substance use history showed a statistically significant association with poor adherence to medication. Stakeholders should set alternative strategies as perceived impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on medication adherence are high in the study area.
Novel gene rearrangement in the mitochondrial genome of Siliqua minima (Bivalvia, Adapedonta) and phylogenetic implications for Imparidentia
Authors: Feng Jiantong , Guo Yahong , Yan Chengrui , Ye Yingying , Yan Xiaojun , Li Jiji , Xu Kaida , Guo Baoying , Lü Zhenming
Published: April 2021

Siliqua minima(Gmelin, 1791) is an important economic shellfish species belonging to the family Pharidae. To date, the complete mitochondrial genome of only one species in this family (Sinonovacula constricta) has been sequenced. Research on the Pharidae family is very limited; to improve the evolution of this bivalve family, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome ofS.minimaby next-generation sequencing. The genome is 17,064 bp in length, consisting of 12 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNA), and two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNA). From the rearrangement analysis of bivalves, we found that the gene sequences of bivalves greatly variable among species, and with closer genetic relationship, the more consistent of the gene arrangement is higher among the species. Moreover, according to the gene arrangement of seven species from Adapedonta, we found that gene rearrangement among families is particularly obvious, while the gene order within families is relatively conservative. The phylogenetic analysis between species of the superorder Imparidentia using 12 conserved PCGs. TheS.minimamitogenome was provided and will improve the phylogenetic resolution of Pharidae species.
Effects of dietary chromium picolinate supplementation on broiler growth performance: A meta-analysis
Authors: Feng Chao , Wuren Qiqige , Zhang Xinyu , Sun Xiaoying , Na Qin
Published: April 2021

Objective

A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effects of dietary chromium picolinate (CrPic) supplementation on broiler growth performance and to determine whether such effects are regulated by broiler strains, sex, environmental stress, or contextual factors including study area and years.

Methods

Eligible studies were identified by searching the Web of Science, Springer, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, Taylor & Francis Online databases. Weighted average differences with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were computed with a random-effects model. We performed subgroup analysis stratified by study area, published years, broiler strains and sex, and environmental stress. Publication bias was assessed with Egger’s test method. A total of 15 studies eligible for inclusion.

Results

The results indicated that CrPic supplementation significantly improved broiler growth performance and subgroup analysis confirmed this conclusion. We also found that Ross 308 or male broilers might be more sensitive to CrPic supplementation and showed better growth performance. A model was used to obtain the amount of chromium addition under the optimal growth performance, which suggested that the maximum value of average daily gain (ADG) was reached when chromium addition was 1810 μg/kg. The results of the sensitivity analysis showed low sensitivity and high stability of the meta-analysis.

Conclusions

CrPic supplementation had a positive effect on the growth performance of broilers, and this meta-analysis provides a more accurate value of chromium addition, which may be beneficial for the practice of the broiler industry.
Sexual inhibition and sexual excitation in a sample of Polish women
Authors: Nowosielski Krzysztof , Kurpisz Jacek , Kowalczyk Robert
Published: April 2021

The contemporary concept of sexual counseling for women with sexual problems, distress, and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) includes tailored medical and/or psychological intervention. The dual control model and the Sexual Excitation/Sexual Inhibition Inventory for Women (SESII-W) are helpful for identifying risk factors and tailoring therapy for FSD. The current study aimed to (1) validate the Polish translation of the SESII-W in a sample of Polish women, and (2) verify the usefulness of the SESII-W in clinical practice. Five hundred nine white women age 18 to 55 years old (M ± SD age = 39.7 ± 11.3 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. Linguistic validation of the Polish translation of the SESII-W was first performed. A battery of tests was then used to evaluate reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, measurement invariances, and correlations between the SESII-W and other measures. Given that the original version of the SESII-W had unsatisfactory model fit, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were subsequently performed. Results showed a new final model that included 26 items with seven lower- and two higher-order factors and explained 58.9% of the variance in the data, with CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.05 and χ2 = 693.39, p < 0.001. Cronbach’s α was 0.77 for Sexual Excitation (SE) and 0.88 for Sexual Inhibition (SI) scales. A moderate negative association between SI and the presence of FSD according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria was noted. SE was positively associated with engaging in risky sexual behaviors, Extraversion and Openness to Experiences traits, and was negatively correlated with relationship quality. Finally, age was negatively correlated with all domains of the SESII-W except Arousal Contingency. SE and SI were both lower in older women as compared to younger once. These results demonstrate that the Polish version of SESII-W shows good psychometric properties. A higher propensity for SI was associated with the presence of sexual problems, distress, and FSD, whereas a higher propensity for SE was associated with greater engagement in risky sexual behaviors and personality type. However, future studies on larger and more diverse populations are required to confirm the replicability of the factor structure of the scale.
Development and validation of a new Multidisciplinary Approach Competency Scale for Prevention of Child Abuse from Pregnancy (MUSCAT)
Authors: Sakakida Chika , Tadaka Etsuko , Arimoto Azusa
Published: April 2021

Child abuse remains a major global problem. A high-quality multidisciplinary approach involving different professionals for the early prevention of child abuse beginning from pregnancy is paramount because child abuse is associated with multiple potential risk factors at individual and societal levels. A multidisciplinary approach to preventing child abuse involves interprofessional coordination, and requires clear definitions of professional competency. However, no scale to measure professional competency for such multidisciplinary approaches is available. This study aimed to develop and validate the Multidisciplinary Approach Competency Scale for Prevention of Child Abuse from Pregnancy (MUSCAT). First, a draft scale comprising 30 items was developed based on a literature review, and then refined to 21 items through expert interviews. Next, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among experts from 1,146 child and maternal health institutions (health centers, perinatal medical centers/hospitals, child consultation centers, midwife clinics, and kindergartens) in 10 major prefectures and cities throughout Japan. The questionnaire collected respondents’ demographic data and information about one child abuse case, and asked respondents to apply the provisional MUSCAT to the reported case. Finally, three of the 21 items were excluded by item analysis, leaving 18 items for exploratory factor analysis. Confirmatory factor analyses identified 10 items on two factors: “Collaborative Networking” and “Professional Commitment.” The goodness of fit index was 0.963, adjusted goodness of fit index was 0.939, comparative fit index was 0.988, and root mean square error of approximation was 0.043. The Cronbach’s alpha for the entire scale was 0.903, and values for the subscales were 0.840–0.875. The overall scale score was positively correlated with the Interprofessional Collaboration Competency Scale. The MUSCAT demonstrated acceptable internal consistency and validity, and has potential for use in advancing individual practice and team performance in multidisciplinary approaches for early prevention of child abuse.
Age-related changes in NG2-expressing telocytes of rat stomach
Authors: Tamura Yasuhisa , Takata Kumi , Eguchi Asami , Maeda Mitsuyo , Kataoka Yosky
Published: April 2021

NG2 immunoreactive cells (NG2 cells) are found in the brain and peripheral tissues including the skin, intestinal tracts, and bladder. In a previous study, we observed the presence of NG2 cells in the stomach using bioluminescence imaging techniques in NG2-firefly luciferase (fLuc) transgenic (Tg) rats. Here, we aimed to identify and characterize NG2 cells in the adult rat stomach. Immunohistochemical studies showed that NG2 cells were mainly present in the lamina propria and most of the cells were gastric telocytes, co-expressing CD34, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα), with a small oval-shaped cell body and extremely long and thin cellular prolongations. In the rat stomach, NG2-expressing telocytes comprised two subpopulations: NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα+ and NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα-. Furthermore, we showed that the expression of NG2 gene in the aged rat stomach decreased relative to that of the young rat stomach and the decline of NG2 expression in aged rats was mainly observed in NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα+ telocytes. These findings suggested age-related alterations in NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα+ telocytes of rat stomach.
Third track: A hidden utopia in the middle of the city
Authors: Dobovšek Zala
Published: April 2021

Abstract

The author reads the new sound ‘walking performance’ The Sandbox by Brane Zorman and Irena Pivka in the light of the emancipatory act of walking at a time when the freedom of movement itself is restricted. The participant is also the (only) one
enacting the performative situation in a constant cycle between his or her inner thoughts that create the ‘space’ and the outer ‘place’ delineated by the exterior, which is made up of impressions from the natural and artificial landscape and sound impulses.
Boomer socialisms, the millennial left and the alternative in between
Authors: Gonza Tej
Published: April 2021

Abstract

The cliff beneath the feet of western society forces us to flirt with alternative economic systems. These are mostly rhetorical suggestions lacking the necessary gravitas to get us out of the shitty mess that is late capitalism. Instead of dealing with the hound
that is slowly nibbling on the hare, we could, for a change, ask the latter why it got itself caught in the first place. The twenty-first century left offers no alternative to late capitalism. The Millennial part is caught up in identity politics that have lost their middle-class common denominator.
And the Boomer part is caught up in the dogmatisms of statist socialisms that seem lost in the Instagram space. The new left consideration of the economy should look for inspiration in the radical interpretation of liberalism, democratic theory, inalienable human rights, feminism and abolitionism.
As it is difficult to give a column-like presentation of ideas that require the space of book volumes, this essayistic article mainly provides an overview of the main institutions. It will discuss the following questions: why is Marx actually a liberal? Why is capitalism dismantling the ethical
basis of private property? What is Boomer socialism and what is the Millennial left? In which points is David Harvey’s understanding of neo-liberalism wrong and why is the state, on the other hand, the epitome of neoliberalism? What is the definition of precarity, how are people working
in the culture sector doing and why is precarity not a capitalist category? What is radical economic liberalism and why is it more subversive than étatist socialisms? And, last but not least, what is the realpolitik of an alternative economic system and why does the survival
of political democracy depend on it?
What was happening here was never normal anyway: A series of vignettes
Authors: Petrešin-Bachelez Nataša
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Profound social, cultural and ecological re-thinking that has been taking place should have a strong dialogue and impact with and on the cultural and artistic field. As a curator and cultural worker who acts in awareness of and by using their white privilege, I feel
the necessity to propose a transformed way of understanding the methods of working within the field of artistic practices as an important part of the social sector of care work. What would it mean if societies in the Global North valued the artists and cultural workers of all disciplines who
are working on caring practices as if they belonged to the above-mentioned category of essential workers?
Daftar Merah Tumbuhan Indonesia 1: 50 Jenis Pohon Kayu Komersial
Authors:   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Kusumadewi Yulita , Wardani Wita ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Sudarmonowati Enny ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Partomihardjo Tukirin ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Shomat Fazlurrohman ,   Fauna & Flora International - Indonesia Programe, Primajati Mahendra ,   Fauna & Flora International– Indonesia Programme, Randi Agusti ,   Fauna & Flora International– Indonesia Programme, Hamidi Arief ,   Fauna & Flora International– Indonesia Programme, Pratama Bayu Arief ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Robiansyah Iyan ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Purwaningsih Purwaningsih ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Kalima Titi ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences
Published: April 2021

Jenis kayu komersial pernah menjadi sumber penghasil devisa penting bagi Indonesia. Kayu-kayu komersial, terutama yang mendominasi hutan dataran rendah, telah mengalami perubahan alih fungsi lahan yang begitu cepat sejak tiga dekade lalu sehingga mengakibatkan menurunnya habitat dan populasi alam. Apabila tidak segera dilakukan aksi konservasi yang nyata, jenis-jenis tersebut bisa punah dalam waktu singkat. Buku ini berisi informasi mengenai status taksonomi, informasi penilaian status konservasi, ciri-ciri utama, regenerasi, kegunaan, distribusi di Indonesia, habitat dan ekologi, status populasi serta ancaman utama dan aksi konservasinya. Untuk itu, buku ini diharapkan dapat menjadi pedoman bagi pengambil atau pemegang kebijakan dan praktisi konservasi serta masyarakat umum pemerhati jenis-jenis pohon.