bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Η δημόσια χρηματοδότηση της εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα (1998-2018)
Authors: Ευθαλιτσίδου Κυριακή
Published: June 2022

Στο πλαίσιο της παρούσας διατριβής, μελετάται το ζήτημα της της δημόσιας χρηματοδότησης της ελληνικής εκπαίδευσης, για το χρονικό διάστημα 1998 – 2018. Εξετάζεται σε θεωρητικό πλαίσιο το Κράτος Πρόνοιας, στις διαδοχικές φάσεις του, και η σύνδεσή του με την εκπαίδευση και τη χρηματοδότησή της. Σε μια πρώτη προσέγγιση των δεδομένων της δημόσιας χρηματοδότησης, άμεσης και έμμεσης, επιχειρείται μη παραμετρική στατιστική ανάλυση των δαπανών της εκπαίδευσης και του επιμερισμού τους στις διάφορες εκπαιδευτικές βαθμίδες, όπως και της διαμόρφωσης της δημόσιας χρηματοδότησης της εκπαίδευσης σε σχέση με τις μορφές πολιτικής συμμετοχής και κομματικού ανταγωνισμού στην ελληνική κοινωνία για το ίδιο διάστημα. Ακολούθως, αναλύεται η δημόσια χρηματοδότηση της εκπαίδευσης βάσει ενός οικονομετρικού υποδείγματος, που κατασκευάστηκε ώστε αναδειχθεί και να επεξηγηθεί η σχέση της χρηματοδότησης της εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα με τις δαπάνες του Κράτους Πρόνοιας και το ΑΕΠ.. Τα ευρήματα της έρευνας αναδεικνύουν ότι η δημόσια χρηματοδότηση της εκπαίδευσης δεν παρουσιάζεται στατιστικά σημαντική για τη διαμόρφωση του ελληνικού ΑΕΠ και, επομένως, οι τρόποι, το ύψος και η διάρθρωση της χρηματοδότησης της ελληνικής εκπαίδευσης συντελούν ώστε αυτή να μην αποτελεί μακροπρόθεσμα πηγή οικονομικής ανάπτυξης.Λέξεις-Κλειδιά: Άμεση Χρηματοδότηση, Έμμεση Χρηματοδότηση, Εκπαίδευση, Κράτος Πρόνοιας.
First record of the genus Scelio (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae, Scelionidae, Scelioninae) egg parasitoids in tomato greenhouses of southeastern Algeria
Authors: Wahiba Afissa , Fatma Demnati , Faiza Marniche , Nacima Deghiche-Diab
Published: June 2022

This is the first record of genus Scelio (Latreille, 1805) in Algeria. Two species of Scelio poecilopterus (Priesner, 1951) and Scelio vulgaris (Kieffer, 1908), were collected in tomato greenhouses from El Alia and El Hadjeb regions in the province of Biskra, southeastern Algeria in 2019-2020, using yellow pan traps, yellow bottles and Barber traps for sampling specimens, followed by laboratory methods to preserve and identify the samples.  Photographic material and information on these species are presented and described, on female specimens, in order to expand the knowledge about the distribution and biodiversity of egg parasitoids in our country.
Methodology of Natsal-COVID Wave 2: A large, quasi-representative, longitudinal survey measuring the impact of COVID-19 on sexual and reproductive health in Britain
Authors: Dema Emily , Conolly Anne , Willis Malachi , Copas Andrew J. , Clifton Soazig , Blake Margaret , Riddell Julie , Bosó Pérez Raquel , Tanton Clare , Bonell Chris , Sonnenberg Pam , Mercer Catherine H. , Mitchell Kirstin R. , Field Nigel
Published: June 2022

Background: The National Surveys of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles COVID study (Natsal-COVID) was designed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on Britain’s sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Natsal-COVID Wave 1 survey and qualitative follow-up interviews were conducted in 2020. The Wave 2 survey was designed to capture one-year prevalence estimates for key SRH outcomes and measure changes over the first year of the pandemic. We describe the Wave 2 survey methodology and assess the sample representativeness.

Methods: Natsal-COVID Wave 2 was conducted March-April 2021; approximately one year after the start of Britain’s first national lockdown. Data were collected using an online web-panel survey administered by Ipsos. The sample comprised a longitudinal sample of Wave 1 participants who had agreed to re-contact plus a sample of participants residing in Britain, aged 18-59, including a boost sample comprising people aged 18-29. Questions covered reproductive health, relationships, sexual behaviour and SRH service use. Quotas and weighting were used to achieve a quasi-representative sample of the British population. Comparisons were made with recent national probability surveys, Natsal-3 (2010-12) and Natsal-COVID Wave 1 to understand bias.

Results: A total of 6,658 individuals completed the survey. In terms of gender, age, ethnicity, and rurality, the weighted Natsal-COVID Wave 2 sample was like the general population. Participants were less likely to be married or to report being in good health than the general population. The longitudinal sample (n=2,098) were broadly like participants who only took part in Wave 1 but were older. Among the sexually active, longitudinal participants were less likely to report multiple sexual partners or a new sexual partner in the past year compared to those who only took part in Wave 1.

Conclusions: Natsal-COVID collected longitudinal, quasi-representative population data to enable evaluation of the population-level impact of COVID-19 on SRH and to inform policy.
Tuberous sclerosis complex-associated neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Marcinkowska Anna B. , Tarasewicz Agnieszka , Jóźwiak Sergiusz , Dębska-Ślizień Alicja , Szurowska Edyta
Published: June 2022

Celem pracy było podsumowanie aktualnej wiedzy na temat zaburzeń neuropsychiatrycznych związanych ze stwardnieniem guzowatym (ang. Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, TSC). TSC jest rzadką chorobą genetyczną, zaliczaną do fakomatoz. Ze względu na szerokie spektrum objawów klinicznych wiele przypadków pozostaje niezdiagnozowanych. U zdecydowanej większości osób z mutacją w genach TSC1 lub TSC2 w ciągu życia dochodzi do rozwoju niektórych z objawów neuropsychiatrycznych. W pracy przedstawiono aktualne kryteria diagnostyczne TSC. Opisana została również patologia neuroanatomiczna i patofizjologia leżąca u podłoża objawów psychiatrycznych, neuropsychologicznych, rozwojowych i psychospołecznych występujących w TSC. Przedstawiono specyfikę padaczki w TSC i jej rolę w rozwoju neuropsychiatrycznym i neuropsychologicznym. Szczegółowo omówione zostały wszystkie poziomy (intelektualny, rozwojowy, behawioralny, psychiatryczny, szkolny, neuropsychologiczny i psychospołeczny) zaburzeń neuropsychiatrycznych związanych ze stwardnieniem guzowatym (ang. Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Associated Neuropsychiatric Disorders, TAND). W pracy opisane zostało narzędzie do oceny wszystkich potencjalnie zaburzonych aspektów funkcjonowania osób z TSC - Lista kontrolna TAND. Podkreślono wagę właściwej diagnozy zaburzeń neuropsychiatrycznych i multidyscyplinarnej opieki nad pacjentem.
Normal bilirubinemia downregulates the power spectral density of the θ and Δ rhythm, instead upregulates the β rhythm and sympatho-vagal balance in adults humans
Authors: Korda Mykhaylo , Gozhenko Anatoliy , Kuchma Igor , Korda Inna , Popadynets’ Oleksandr , Badiuk Nataliya , Korolyshyn Tetyana , Zukow Walery , Popovych Igor
Published: June 2022

Background. Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia has been known to damage neural function. Our goal is to determine whether the neurotropic activity of normal bilirubinemia in adults is evident. Methods. The object of observation were 77 volunteers: 30 women and 47 men aged 49±13 (26 ÷ 76) years without clinical diagnosis. Testing was performed twice with an interval of 4 ÷ 10 days. We determined the plasma levels of the direct and free bilirubin, recorded EEG and HRV followed by analysis of correlations between parameters. Results. Significant downregulating effect of bilirubinemia was found on power spectrum density (PSD) theta and delta rhythm. In contrast, bilirubinemia has an upregulating effect on PSD beta rhythm and sympatho-vagal balance. The canonical correlation between direct & free bilirubin levels, on the one hand, and EEG & HRV parameters, on the other hand, is very strong: R=0,808; R2=0,654; χ2(80)=191; p<10-6 (n=154). A similar canonical correlation was found between individual changes in parameters: R=0,753; R2=0,568; χ2(48)=83; p=0,001 (n=74). Conclusion. Even normal bilirubinemia has an downregulating effect on mainly theta and delta rhythm-generating nuclei and vagal tone, while upregulating effects on sympathetic tone and beta rhythm-generating nuclei.
Sarcoidosis como causa de fiebre de origen desconocido: reporte de caso.
Authors: Arango Rivas Ana María , Castilla Agudelo Gustavo Adolfo , Chavarriaga Restrepo Andres , Velásquez Franco Carlos Jaime , Varela Aguirre Gabriel Jaime
Published: June 2022

Introducción: en el enfoque de los pacientes con fiebre de origen desconocido es importante tener en cuenta las etiologías inflamatorias no infecciosas, entre ellas enfermedades del tejido conectivo, vasculitis y granulomatosas. La sarcoidosis es inflamatoria, idiopática, crónica, multisistémica, granulomatosa y es una causa de fiebre de origen desconocido. Presentación del caso: se presenta el caso de un paciente con fiebre y manifestaciones cutáneas sugestivas de endocarditis y lesiones nodulares dolorosas en la región pretibial. Se descartó esta etiología por ecocardiografía transesofágica, con hemocultivos negativos y sin claro foco infeccioso ni respuesta a antibióticos de amplio espectro. Se le realizó una tomografía por emisión de positrones con evidencia de adenopatías en ambos hilios pulmonares y una biopsia de piel que evidenció granulomas sin necrosis, sin vasculitis, paniculitis con infiltrado septal. Conclusiones: por un cuadro clínico sugestivo y hallazgos radiológicos, se sospechó de sarcoidosis y se inició su manejo con posterior resolución del cuadro.
Lifestyle Habits during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Quarantine in a Colombian Population Sample
Authors: Zea-Robles Aura Catalina , León-Ariza Henry Humberto
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The worldwide quarantine led to several changes in the habits of the population. This research aimed to identify the effect of quarantine on the habits of a sample Colombian population. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on 1928 participants through a Google survey form between weeks 9 and 10 of the quarantine in Colombia. Questions related to the following topics were included: physical exercise, nutritional status, stress, anxiety, fear, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and sleeping habits. Results: Data were collected from men and women from 128 Colombian cities belonging to all socio-economic strata. Most of the participants took virtual classes (53.8%) or teleworking (39.7%), 51.6% reported did not do or did <150 min of weekly activity; 27.0% were overweight or obese, 37.5% ate healthier, 56.1% used more social networks, and 72.6% reported depression, anxiety, and stress. The predominant familial pathological condition reported was arterial hypertension (53.2%). Conclusion: Although several participants sought to remain physically active through exercise at home, it is important to continuously generate recommendations to improve their adherence; further, more aggressive campaigns need to be performed using social media to share information about the importance of nutrition, rest, and mental health. It is crucial to reduce the effects of quarantine that may lead to chronic non-communicable diseases in future.
Millennials and the Takeoff of Craft Brands: Preference Formation in the U.S. Beer Industry
Authors: Bronnenberg Bart , Dubé Jean-Pierre , Joo Joonhwi
Published: June 2022

Differences in consumption capital across generations account for most of the craft beer share gap between millennials and baby boomers, not differences in intrinsic preferences.
Diverticular disease: a clinical review
Authors: Redfern Vicky , Mortimore Gerri
Published: June 2022

Diverticular disease is an umbrella term encompassing symptomatic diverticulosis, uncomplicated and complicated diverticulitis. The presence of diverticula increases with age, affecting up to 70% of the population by 80 years of age. It is associated with a significant economic burden in terms of healthcare costs, hospitalisation, and resource use. Although mortality from non-complicated diverticulosis is extremely rare, morbidity and mortality risk increase ten-fold with complications such as perforation or fistula. This article will examine diverticular disease, its pathogenesis, symptoms and complications. Additionally, the surgical and non-surgical treatment options will be discussed, including the role of antibiotics.
Clinical digest
Authors: Batas Renata
Published: June 2022

A brief overview of recently published articles on wound, continence and stoma care
The role of geriatricians in hospital palliative care units for elderly patients affected by end stage diseases
Authors: Sganga Federica , Salerno Andrea , Frizza Alessandro , Turriziani Adriana , Barillaroa Christian , Bernabei Roberto
Published: June 2022

Objective:

To show the importance of geriatricians in the assessment and treatment of patients with terminal illnesses requiring palliative care.

Methods:

This was a retrospective epidemiological study, in which the authors used data relating to 229 patients with terminal stage cancer/advanced chronic diseases, which were evaluated by a palliative care team and collected from January to December 2018.

Results:

The average age of the sample was 72 years. The sample was divided into two groups, called ‘advanced cancer’ (N=161, 70.3%) and ‘advanced chronic diseases’ (N=68, 29.6%). The authors found that patients with advanced chronic diseases had the highest age, highest number of comorbidities and higher indicators of complex care. The authors also showed that, in advanced chronic diseases, the factors that are associated with increased hospital death are: bedridden (OR=3,778; 95% CI=1,371-10,409), dysphagia (OR=2,038; 95% CI=1,005-4,133) and a higher number of diseases (OR=1,446; 95% CI=1,179–1,774).

Discussion:

Given these findings, there is a high prevalence of elderly hospitalised patients with advanced chronic end-stage disease, a classic geriatric condition, who need access to palliative care services.

Conclusion:

The authors believe that an increase in geriatricians dedicated to palliative care services is needed to ensure that these patients have equal access to continuity of care services and optimal treatment.
Rehabilitation processes, stress and depression in patients with spinal cord injury during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey: a telephone survey
Authors: Atici Arzu , Kaysin Meryem Yılmaz , Akpinar Pinar , Ozkan Feyza Unlu , Aktas Ilknur
Published: June 2022

Background/Aims

Spinal cord injury is a chronic disease that can develop various complications and multisystem dysfunctions. Patients with spinal cord injury need long-term follow up and rehabilitation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people had to observe social distancing and stay at home. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the rehabilitation and health status of patients with spinal cord injury and assesses their stress levels and depression status.

Methods

A telephone-based survey was conducted with patients followed up by a spinal cord injury outpatient clinic about rehabilitation processes and any health problems experienced. Stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale, while depression was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory. Demographic characteristics, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale levels, Functional Ambulation Categories and Spinal Cord Independence Measure scores were retrieved from the patients' files.

Results

The study included 115 patients, none of whom had contracted COVID-19. Of these patients, 44.3% joined the rehabilitation programme before the pandemic, and 3.5% had been able to participate in the rehabilitation programme during the pandemic. An increase in spasticity was recorded in 43.5% of the respondents, an increase of neuropathic pain was recorded in 37.4% of patients and complaints of neurogenic bladder and neurogenic bowel increased by 26.1% and 16.5% respectively. In addition, 4.3% reported novel decubitus ulcers, while 5.2% reported having experienced autonomic dysreflexia episodes. The Perceived Stress Scale scores were 18.32 ± 5.91. No significant difference was detected between the Beck Depression Inventory scores taken at the time of the study and those recorded before the pandemic.

Conclusions

An insufficiency in the rehabilitation process was noted among patients with spinal cord injuries, accompanied by increased complications. New approaches need to be developed to ensure that the rehabilitation processes of patients with spinal cord injury are not interrupted during a pandemic, and that patients' mental health is not ignored.
MANUTENÇÃO E VALIDAÇÃO DA COLEÇÃO DE CULTURA DE MICROFUNGOS DO PROGRAMA DE PESQUISA DE BIODIVERSIDADE DO SEMIÁRIDO BRASILEIRO – PPBIO
Authors: Simões Macedo Adrielle
Published: June 2022

As coleções de culturas são repositórios de organismos relevantes para o desenvolvimento científico e biotecnológico. Coleções de culturas de microrganismos são centros de conservação de recursos genéticos ex-situ, que tem como função principal a aquisição, caracterização, manutenção e distribuição de microorganismos e células autenticadas e reagentes biológicos certificados (Vazolle et al., 2005).
FORMAÇÃO INICIAL DE PEDAGOGOS PARA LIDAR COM A DIVERSIDADE CULTURAL NO ENSINO DE CIÊNCIAS: O CASO UEFS
Authors: Machado Araujo Geane
Published: June 2022

A cultura significa o modo de viver de um povo enquanto herança social (KADLUBITSKI; JUNQUEIRA, 2009), que orienta a dinâmica social humana influenciando suas atitudes e percepções do mundo (LARAIA, 2001), inclusive no espaço escolar, caracterizado pela diversidade cultural.
EDIÇÃO DIGITAL DAS FICHAS DOS REDATORES DO ACERVO “CARTAS EM SISAL”
Authors: Nascimento Pedreira de Souza Larissa
Published: June 2022

Este trabalho teve por objetivo geral editar as fichas dos redatores, em linguagem XML, correspondentes ao acervo “Cartas em sisal”.
Factors associated with antiretroviral therapy adherence among adolescents living with HIV in the era of isoniazid preventive therapy as part of HIV care
Authors: Villiera Jimmy Ba , Katsabola Hilary , Bvumbwe Menard , Mhango Joseph , Khosa Justice , Silverstein Allison , Nyondo-Mipando Alinane Linda
Published: June 2022

High levels of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) are essential to promoting viral suppression and consequential good treatment outcomes. Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa are less adherent to ART compared to adults, leading to lower rates of viral suppression and immunological recovery. We conducted a mixed-method study utilizing a convergent parallel approach to explore factors associated with ART adherence among ALHIV in the era of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) as part of HIV care. The quantitative data were collected from patient records from the period between 1 February 2017 and 31 January 2018 (6 months before and after IPT introduction), while qualitative data was collected from purposively selected patients and healthcare workers by in-depth interviews through a pretested interview guide. A total of 385 patient records (age 10–19 years) were analyzed in the two time periods, while 16 ALHIV (age 10–19 years) and three healthcare workers directly involved in adolescent care were interviewed. Quantitative data utilized logistic regression to measure the strength of association between IPT addition and ART adherence, whereas, qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The mean age of participants in the quantitative section was 14.3 years (SD 2.7) and 178 were females, while the median age for adolescents interviewed was 14 (IQR 12–17) and 8 were females. Overall, we found an interaction of factors that influenced ART adherence. Added pill burden, on its own, did not affect ART adherence. Commonly reported factors that led to poor adherence were lack of status disclosure within the family, school pressure, and inadequate support from guardians and parents. According to retrospective patient records, complex ART regimens also worsened adherence (p = 0.0462). ART regimen was independently associated with adherence (OR 2.11 95% CI 0.97–4.53). Being on ART for a longer duration, enrolment into teen clubs, clinical psychosocial support, and self-reinforcement techniques were suggested to improve ART adherence. The interplay of multiple factors leads to poor rates of adherence. The introduction of IPT to ART packages may not independently affect ART adherence. Readily available psychosocial services and the presence of peer and guardian support is critical to optimal ART adherence. There is a need for ART centers that provide HIV care to adolescents to consider integrating psychosocial and other youth-friendly services into day-to-day clinic operations.
Determinants of contraceptive use among women 0–23 months postpartum in Kitui County, Kenya: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mutea Lilian , Kathure Immaculate , Kadengye Damazo T. , Kimanzi Sila , Wacira Daniel , Onyango Nelson , Wao Hesborn
Published: June 2022

The risk of unintended pregnancy is high in the postpartum period, especially during the first year of delivery. Yet, short birth intervals are associated with increased risk of adverse maternal and infant outcomes. In Kenya, despite women having multiple contacts with healthcare providers during their pregnancy and postpartum journeys, uptake of contraceptives during the postpartum period remains low. We examine factors that determine contraceptive use among postpartum women in Kitui County, Kenya.A cross-sectional study was conducted in six sub-counties of Kitui County covering a random sample of 768 postpartum women in April 2019. Logistic regression was used to study the association between uptake of contraceptives among women 0–23 months postpartum and several explanatory variables that included socio-demographic characteristics and facility-level factors. Overall, 68% of women in Kitui County reported using contraceptives. The likelihood of contraceptive use increased with the increase in the number of known family planning methods. Women who discussed family planning with a health worker within the last 12 months were 2.58 (95%CI: 1.73, 3.89) times more likely to use contraceptives during the postpartum period compared to those who did not. There was an increased odds of contraceptive uptake among women who received family planning information or service during postnatal care than those who did not (aOR = 2.04, 95%CI: 1.30, 3.24). A positive association was also found between contraceptive use and receipt of family planning information or service during immunization visits or during child well visits. It is evident that facility-level factors such as discussing family planning with women; educating women about different family planning methods; providing family planning information or services during postnatal care, immunization, or well child visits are associated with increased likelihood of contraceptive uptake by women during postpartum period. Programs targeting enhancing women’s attendance of postnatal care clinics should be encouraged.
Diagnostic accuracy of non-invasive detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection by canine olfaction
Authors: GRANDJEAN Dominique , ELIE Caroline , GALLET Capucine , JULIEN Clotilde , ROGER Vinciane , DESQUILBET Loïc , ALVERGNAT Guillaume , DELARUE Séverine , GABASSI Audrey , MINIER Marine , CHOUPEAUX Laure , KERNEIS Solen , DELAUGERRE Constance , LE GOFF Jérôme , TRELUYER Jean-Marc
Published: June 2022

Background

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, testing individuals remains a key action. One approach to rapid testing is to consider the olfactory capacities of trained detection dogs.

Methods

Prospective cohort study in two community COVID-19 screening centers. Two nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS), one saliva and one sweat samples were simultaneously collected. The dog handlers (and the dogs…) were blinded with regards to the Covid status. The diagnostic accuracy of non-invasive detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection by canine olfaction was assessed as compared to nasopharyngeal RT-PCR as the reference standard, saliva RT-PCR and nasopharyngeal antigen testing.

Results

335 ambulatory adults (143 symptomatic and 192 asymptomatic) were included. Overall, 109/335 participants tested positive on nasopharyngeal RT-PCR either in symptomatic (78/143) or in asymptomatic participants (31/192). The overall sensitivity of canine detection was 97% (95% CI, 92 to 99) and even reached 100% (95% CI, 89 to 100) in asymptomatic individuals compared to NPS RT-PCR. The specificity was 91% (95% CI, 72 to 91), reaching 94% (95% CI, 90 to 97) for asymptomatic individuals. The sensitivity of canine detection was higher than that of nasopharyngeal antigen testing (97% CI: 91 to 99 versus 84% CI: 74 to 90, p = 0.006), but the specificity was lower (90% CI: 84 to 95 versus 97% CI: 93 to 99, p = 0.016).

Conclusions

Non-invasive detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection by canine olfaction could be one alternative to NPS RT-PCR when it is necessary to obtain a result very quickly according to the same indications as antigenic tests in the context of mass screening.
Perceived barriers and facilitators of physical activity in adults living in activity-friendly urban environments: A qualitative study in Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera Madhawa , Arambepola Carukshi , Gillison Fiona , Peacock Oliver , Thompson Dylan
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite reforming health policies to create more enabling environments, insufficient physical activity in Sri Lanka remains a major public health issue. Socio-culture specific determinants underlying the physical activity of adults living in such environments need to be identified. The aim of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators for physical activity, as perceived by adult urban dwellers in activity-friendly environments in Colombo District, Sri Lanka.

Methods

A qualitative study using in-depth interviews was conducted among adults aged 20–60 years living in an urban area which has been recently re-designed for recreational and rejuvenating purposes in Sri Lanka. Recruitment targeted varying socio-economic status and risk of non-communicable diseases; and was continued until the data saturation point was reached. Interviews were conducted in homes, primary healthcare units and fitness centres, and were transcribed verbatim and analysed using framework analysis.

Results

A total of 31 eligible and consenting adults were interviewed. Of the reported barriers to physical activity, lack of time was very common. Other frequently reported barriers included unpleasant experiences following exercise and misconceptions about exercise, whereas physical environmental factors, weather and road safety were reported less frequently. All participants reported at least one facilitator for engaging in exercise. Expectations of preventing diseases, improving health, physical fitness, psycho-social wellbeing, optimising body functions and increasing lifespan were frequently cited as reasons to be active, while social factors such as positive attitudes of family members and the influence of peers were found to be motivating.

Conclusions

The study showed that while participants valued the health benefits of physical activity and refurbished activity-friendly urban environments, these were not sufficient to support them to overcome key perceived barriers to being physically active.
Molecular mechanism of the anti-gastric cancer activity of 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose isolated from Trapa bispinosa Roxb. shell in vitro
Authors: Wang Limei , Yin Dongjie , Fan Yanhui , Min Ting , Yi Yang , Wang Hongxun
Published: June 2022

Trapa bispinosaRoxb. is a traditional Chinese food which is well known for its medicinal properties. The shell ofTrapa bispinosahas anticancer activity, maybe due to its high content of polyphenols. There are few studies on the chemical composition ofTrapa bispinosashells, then we isolated the active components fromTrapa bispinosashell and clarified the mechanism of its anticancer activity. One monomer compound was separated from the ethanol extract of theTrapa bispinosashell by fractional extraction, silica gel, Sephadex LH-20 gel column chromatography and liquid phase separation. The structure, identified by NMR was 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose. The results of the CCK-8 assay showed that 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose could significantly inhibit the proliferation of gastric cancer SGC7901 cells, and the effect was close to that of 5-fluorouracil. Here, 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose could affect the cell cycle of SGC7901 cells. At the dose of 200 μg/mL and an incubation time of 48 h, SGC7901 cells remained in the G1 phase, apoptosis occurred, the intracellular calcium ion concentration increased and the mitochondrial membrane potential decreased. Transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the P53 signalling pathway associated with apoptosis. The results of qPCR and Western blot showed that 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose could induce apoptosis of SGC7901 cells by up-regulating the expression levels ofP21,PUMA,PERPandIGF-BP3genes, down-regulating theCyclinDgene, increasing the expression levels of cytochrome C, caspase-3, caspase-9 protein and decreasing that of the protein BCL-2.
Nasogastric tube in mechanical ventilated patients: ETCO2 and pH measuring to confirm correct placement. A pilot study
Authors: Ceruti Samuele , Dell’Era Simone , Ruggiero Francesco , Bona Giovanni , Glotta Andrea , Biggiogero Maira , Tasciotti Edoardo , Kronenberg Christoph , Lollo Gianluca , Saporito Andrea
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Nasogastric tube (NGT) placement is a procedure commonly performed in mechanically ventilated (MV) patients. Chest X-Ray is the diagnostic gold-standard to confirm its correct placement, with the downsides of requiring MV patients’ mobilization and of intrinsic actinic risk. Other potential methods to confirm NGT placement have shown lower accuracy compared to chest X-ray; end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) and pH analysis have already been singularly investigated as an alternative to the gold standard. Aim of this study was to determine threshold values in ETCO2 and pH measurement at which correct NGT positioning can be confirmed with the highest accuracy.

Materials & methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, observational trial; a continuous cohort of eligible patients was allocated with site into two arms. Patients underwent general anesthesia, orotracheal intubation and MV; in the first and second group we respectively assessed the difference between tracheal and esophageal ETCO2 and between esophageal and gastric pH values.

Results

From November 2020 to March 2021, 85 consecutive patients were enrolled: 40 in the ETCO2 group and 45 in the pH group. The ETCO2 ROC analysis for predicting NGT tracheal misplacement demonstrated an optimal ETCO2 cutoff value of 25.5 mmHg, with both sensitivity and specificity reaching 1.0 (AUC 1.0, p < 0.001). The pH ROC analysis for predicting NGT correct gastric placement resulted in an optimal pH cutoff value of 4.25, with mild diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.79, p < 0.001).

Discussion

In patients receiving MV, ETCO2 and pH measurements respectively identified incorrect and correct NGT placement, allowing the identification of threshold values potentially able to improve correct NGT positioning.

Trial registration

NCT03934515 (www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Synthesis of flower-like MnO2 nanostructure with freshly prepared Cu particles and electrochemical performance in supercapacitors
Authors: Shen Lingling , Peng Linghui , Fu Runfang , Liu Zichuan , Jiang Xuchuan , Wang Dexi , Kamali Ali Reza , Shi Zhongning
Published: June 2022

Four types of flowerlike manganese dioxide in nano scale was synthesized via a liquid phase method in KMnO4-H2SO4 solution and Cu particles, wherein the effect of Cu particles was investigated in detail. The obtained manganese dioxide powder was characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM, and the supercapacity properties of MnO2 electrode materials were measured. The results showed that doping carbon black can benefit to better dispersion of copper particles, resulting in generated smaller size of Cu particles, and the morphology of MnO2 nanoparticles was dominated by that of Cu particles. The study of MnO2 synthesis by different sources of Cu particles showed that the size of MnO2 particles decreased significantly with freshly prepared fine copper powder compared with using commercial Cu powder, and the size of MnO2 particles can be further reduced to 120 nm by prepared Cu particles with smaller size. Therefore, it was suggested that the copper particles served as not only the reductant and but also the nuclei centre for the growth of MnO2 particles in synthesis process MnO2, and that is the reason how copper particles worked on the growth of flower-like MnO2 and electrochemical property. In the part of investigation for electrochemical property, the calculated results of b values indicated that the electrode materials have pseudo capacitance property, and the highest specific capacitance of 197.2 F g-1 at 2 mV s-1 and 148 F/g at 1 A/g were obtained for MCE electrode materials (MnO2 was synthesized with freshly prepared copper particles, where carbon black was used and dispersed in ethanol before preparation of Cu particles). The values of charge transfer resistance in all types of MnO2 materials electrodes were smaller than 0.08 Ω. The cycling retention of MCE material electrode is still kept as 93.8% after 1000 cycles.
Ultrasonographic findings in patients with abdominal symptoms or trauma presenting to an emergency room in rural Tanzania
Authors: Bauer Max , Kitila Faraja , Mwasongwe Ipyana , Abdallah Issa S. , Siongo Evelyne , Kasunga Sylvester , Gingo Winfrid , Ndege Robert , Hasler Karin , Paris Daniel H. , Weisser Maja , Rohacek Martin
Published: June 2022

Background

Frequencies of ultrasonographic findings and diagnoses in emergency departments in sub-Saharan Africa are unknown. This study aimed to describe the frequencies of different sonographic findings and diagnoses found in patients with abdominal symptoms or trauma presenting to a rural referral hospital in Tanzania.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, we consecutively enrolled patients with abdominal symptoms or trauma triaged to the emergency room of the Saint Francis Referral Hospital, Ifakara. Patients with abdominal symptoms received an abdominal ultrasound. Patients with an abdominal or thoracic trauma received an Extended Focused Assessment with Ultrasound in Trauma (eFAST).

Results

From July 1st 2020 to June 30th 2021, a total of 88838 patients attended the emergency department, of which 7590 patients were triaged as ‘very urgent’ and were seen at the emergency room. A total of 1130 patients with abdominal symptoms received an ultrasound. The most frequent findings were abnormalities of the uterus or adnexa in 409/754 females (54.2%) and abdominal free fluid in 368 (32.6%) patients; no abnormality was found in 150 (13.5%) patients. A tumour in the abdomen or pelvis was found in 183 (16.2%) patients, an intrauterine pregnancy in 129/754 (17.1%) females, complete or incomplete abortion in 96 (12.7%), and a ruptured ectopic pregnancy in 32 (4.2%) females. In males, most common diagnosis was intestinal obstruction in 54/376 (14.4%), and splenomegaly in 42 (11.2%). Of 1556 trauma patients, 283 (18.1%) received an eFAST, and 53 (18.7%) had positive findings. A total of 27 (9.4%) trauma patients and 51 (4.5%) non-trauma patients were sent directly to the operating theatre.

Conclusion

In this study, ultrasound examination revealed abnormal findings for the majority of patients with non-traumatic abdominal symptoms. Building up capacity to provide diagnostic ultrasound is a promising strategy to improve emergency services, especially in a setting where diagnostic modalities are limited.
Editorial
Authors: Chambers-Coe Juliet
Published: June 2022

This editorial marks the transition of the role of principal editor of the journal from Amanda Williamson to me. It marks the points of contact between us as I reflect on how Amanda’s work and more broadly how practices of somatic spiritualities have impacted my life personally and professionally. As I navigate my new role as an editor, I embrace and celebrate the diversity of practices and voices this journal seeks to recognize. It feels like no accident that the contributions to this issue all, at some level, are speaking about the interpersonal body. Through somatic movement practices, the more embodied we become, the more aware we are of other people, and we begin to acknowledge others as simultaneously distinct from us whilst also being a part of us – others are included in our experience of ourselves. And so here, in this issue, we are invited deeply into the practices of others, knowing that we are already included in them. And as we read and move alongside each other through these words, we extend ourselves into their consciousness too, broadening the networks of embodied knowledge which hold open the space for us to be body–spirit–somas, ineluctably entwined with one another, energetically, intellectually, spiritually. The very real physical, material, fleshly aspects of the contributions to this issue speak to the urgent demands of a society which longs for contact and connection which these practices offer. Whether through shared rhythms of breathing and dancing, visual perception or practical care and somatic authority offered to those suffering illness which threatens to take away their agency, spiritually oriented somatic practices give life back to us when we feel undermined by a world in chaos and reminds us of the connections available to us when we listen, feel, think and move together.
Moving Meditations: Embodying Bartenieff Fundamentals through sensorial awareness of breath, bones and gravity
Authors: Kindred Helen
Published: June 2022

This article shares a somatic approach to the practice of meditation reflecting on experiences of facilitating meditation classes for others as well as my own personal practice. I share my application of Bartenieff Fundamentals as a framework for meditation, outlining the language of the body it offers for imagery-based guided meditation – a process of embodied fundamentals. Through exploring the relationship between my practice of Bartenieff Fundamentals and a somatic approach to being in the world, I question how Bartenieff’s Principle of Breath Support may guide a practice of meditation and how in this process of embodiment we might shade, tone and strengthen meditation as a process of somatic engagement, revealing a dialogic relationship between form and fluidity, somatic moving and spiritual connectivity. The use of the voice, heightened sensorial awareness through imagery of breath, bones and gravity are considered through this practice of guided meditations: an embodying of body–space–environment as a transactional space of self-care. Presented through different modalities of formal text, notes from practice, movement scores and images, I invite readers to engage with this work through reading, moving and meditating.
Awake, aware muscles and the light mind
Authors: Saumaa Hiie
Published: June 2022

Strength training has not been the domain of somatics. This article argues for the possibility and the benefits of bringing a somatic approach to working with free weights, dynabands and gym equipment. The article describes how to connect holistically and somatically with physical sensations, emotions, the imagination and the mental realm while doing strength training exercises. Somatic strength training allows us to develop outer and inner strength, bodily awareness, intuition and a compassionate, soulful relationship with the body.
Languages of Resistance, Transformation and Futurity in Mediterranean Crisis-Scapes: From Crisis to Critique, Maria Boletsi, Janna Houwen and Liesbeth Minnaard (eds) (2021)
Authors: Zaccone Francesca
Published: June 2022

Review of: Languages of Resistance, Transformation and Futurity in Mediterranean Crisis-Scapes: From Crisis to Critique, Maria Boletsi, Janna Houwen and Liesbeth Minnaard (eds) (2021)

Cham: Palgrave Macmillan, 312 pp.,

ISBN 978-3-03036-414-4, h/bk, €114.39,

ISBN 978-3-03036-417-5, p/bk, €83.19,

ISBN 978-3-03036-415-1, e-book, €93.08
Los hallazgos de carácter ritual en el yacimiento de Can Tacó/Turó d’en Roina (Montmeló-Montornès del Vallès, Barcelona)
Authors: Rodrigo Requena Esther
Published: June 2022

En el presente trabajo analizamos una serie de elementos aparecidos a lo largo de las campañas realizadas en el yacimiento de Can Tacó/Turó d’en Roina entre los años 2004 y 2017 susceptibles de ser interpretados como los vestigios materiales de prácticas de carácter ritual o votivo. El asentamiento de Can Tacó/Turó d’en Roina, situado en el área interior de la Layetania ibérica, es un enclave del primer momento de la ocupación romana en el nordeste peninsular que interpretamos como un complejo residencial y administrativo cuyo periodo de actividad se puede datar aproximadamente entre el 160 a. C. y los primeros decenios del siglo I a. C.; su temprana cronología y sus características arquitectónicas y decorativas de factura claramente itálicas, nos llevan a proponer que su ocupante principal desempeñaría funciones de representación, y probablemente estaría en estrecha relación con el máximo agente del poder romano en este momento en la península ibérica, el ejército. Este complejo no solo estaría ocupado por este personaje relevante de filiación itálica, sino que contaría con un personal a su servicio, presumiblemente de origen local en su mayoría, que ocuparía las estancias interpretadas como espacios de trabajo y almacenaje. Estos restos a los que suponemos un valor ritual han aparecido en su totalidad en las estancias secundarias, destinadas al personal de servicio, a almacenaje y a la realización de actividades domésticas y de mantenimiento del edificio. Por tanto, nos proporcionan datos muy valiosos sobre aspectos como la filiación étnica del personal destinado al servicio de la residencia, sobre la perduración de prácticas y rituales indígenas y el proceso de hibridación cultural que se irá produciendo paulatinamente entre la población indígena y los recién llegados.
Paisajes dinámicos y agencia local en el sur de la Meseta del Duero medieval: el caso de Monleras (Salamanca, España)
Authors: Martín Viso Iñaki , López Sáez José Antonio , Luelmo Lautenschlaeger Reyes , San Vicente Vicente Francisco Javier
Published: June 2022

Este trabajo pretende analizar la construcción de los paisajes medievales en el Sur del Duero. La imagen que se ha elaborado desde los estudios centrados en el registro escrito enfatizan un incremento de la actividad agraria a partir del siglo XII, como consecuencia de la repoblación. Sin embargo, el análisis del caso de Monleras, una población situada en la comarca de la Ramajería (Salamanca) revela una situación más compleja. Mediante el estudio combinado del registro escrito, de los datos arqueológicos y de dos análisis paleopalinológicos sobre sendos bonales, se ha podido reconstruir una evolución distinta. Estos espacios evidencian una ocupación antrópica desde finales del siglo IX y en el siglo X, cuando se había producido aparentemente un cambio en los patrones de asentamiento que habían definido a los siglos posromanos. Por otro lado, se produjo una transformación con una intensificación de la cerealicultura desde comienzos del siglo XII, aprovechando las favorables condiciones medioambientales que habían generado los humedales. En la Baja Edad Media y a comienzos del periodo moderno, los humedales se fueron progresivamente secando, dando lugar a un paisaje de dehesa, que ha caracterizado tradicionalmente a esta comarca. Estos cambios fueron efectuados por la población local, sin que hubiera una injerencia externa (señorial o del poder urbano) y posiblemente como parte de una acción colectiva. Se puede concluir el importante papel de la resiliencia de los habitantes ante los cambios sociales y medioambientales. Aunque estos datos se refieren a un caso de estudio específico, implican la necesidad de profundizar en la agencia local y en el dinamismo en los procesos de construcción de los paisajes medievales.
Valor formativo del cine y la literatura en los estudiantes de ciencias de la salud. Aspectos generales
Authors: Bordallo Landa Javier , González Rodríguez Sara , Hidalgo Balsera Agustín
Published: June 2022

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar los fundamentos conceptuales de la asignatura optativa Cine, Literatura y Medicina que se imparte en segundo año del grado en Medicina de la Universidad de Oviedo desde el curso académico 2011-2012. Los contenidos que se comentan suponen una introducción general a las formas en las que el cine y la literatura pueden contribuir a la enseñanza de la medicina y de cómo pueden contribuir a la exposición de los estudiantes a aspectos transversales de la medicina dispersos a lo largo de los cursos del Grado. El lenguaje cinematográfico facilita el abordaje de temas complejos en los que las cuestiones éticas y sociales de las enfermedades pueden tratarse mediante la interpretación por actores de forma clara, concisa y dirigida a los elementos nucleares de problemas densos que de otra forma sería dificultoso y lento comprender. La literatura, tanto mediante la escritura como de la lectura, permite aliviar la tensión emocional que produce la enfermedad, interiorizar de forma paciente y reflexiva la experiencia de enfermar, y reorientar la actividad vital en consonancia con la imposición de limitaciones que son propias y características de cada proceso nosológico.
MARKETING: A MANAGEMENT FUNCTION OR A BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY?
Authors: Belyaev V. I.
Published: June 2022

The article considers issues related to both definitions of marketing (marketing as a management function and / or a business philosophy, or both) and the content of marketing tasks in the context of philosophical categories if we consider marketing as business philosophy. The article presents the results of analysis of marketing definitions, describing it as a philosophy of business and/or as a management function. From the analysis of definitions and explanations of the content of marketing, it has been established that marketing is mainly presented as a function of management; in the context of philosophical categories, when it is declared as a philosophy, it is, nevertheless, practically not considered. At the same time, the philosophical aspect of marketing, if properly worked out, can significantly enrich the theory, methodology and practice of marketing. The conclusions allowed the author to formulate directions for further research, focused on the use of philosophical concepts and categories in explaining the essence of marketing, the content of its functional tasks, which allows enterprises not only to receive commercial and financial benefits by meeting the needs and requirements of people, but also to solve social needs in the form of ensuring proportionality between production and consumption in the development of society. It is proposed to define marketing both as a function of enterprise management, which provides the latter with a profit, and as a business philosophy, which allows solving social and economic problems of society.