Search

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate which of two short questionnaires, the Asthma Control Test (ACT) or the COPD Assessment Test (CAT), correlates better with severity variables and whether they share similar determinants in patients with asthma–COPD overlap. Method: This observational, cross-sectional, multicentric study included smokers and former smokers of more than 10 pack-years, with non-fully reversible airflow obstruction and either a concomitant diagnosis of asthma or signs of type 2 inflammation, from 15 centres in Spain. Results: A total of 157 patients were included, 109 (69.4%) were men, the mean age was 63.3 (SD: 9) years and the mean FEV1 (%) was 59.7% (SD: 20.5%). The mean CAT score was 14.5 (SD: 8.7), and the mean ACT score was 17.9 (SD: 5.2). Both scores showed good correlations (r = 0.717; p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and mMRC dyspnoea scores were independently and significantly associated with both the CAT and ACT scores; however, age was only significantly associated with the CAT, and the EQ-5D scores and the number of exacerbations in the previous year were only significantly associated with the ACT scores. The ACT had a slightly better predictive value for exacerbations than the CAT (AUC = 0.70 (95% CI: 0.62 to 0.79 vs. 0.65 (95% CI: 0.56 to 0.74))). Conclusions: There is a good correlation between ACT and CAT scores in patients with ACO. However, severe patients scored worse on the CAT than the ACT. Anxiety, depression and dyspnoea were significantly associated with both the CAT and ACT scores. The ACT was a slightly better predictor of exacerbations than the CAT in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For many, anti-capitalism signifies too much and thus lacks the political conviction needed to inform left-wing strategy and tactics. What remains neglected, though, is how anti-capitalism can function as an organisational form, one that is constituted by the democratic requirements of struggle. At different moments and for different purposes, anti-capitalist organising may rely on vertical, horizontal, centralised, or decentralised formations. We cannot predetermine the organisational particularities of anti-capitalism because it is always a form of forms determined by the demands of struggle. However, we can explore the psycho-political valances of anti-capitalist organisation. The appeal of anti-capitalism, so conceived, lies in its ability to facilitate subjects' enjoyment and political commitment through formal and psychic lack, rather than through neoliberal excess or ideological surety. Psychoanalytic theory is useful for considering how the anti-capitalist form's significatory field can foster emancipatory knowledges, acts, and ways of being in politically fraught contexts of struggle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to study the impact of biological therapies in Saudi Arabia on patients with severe asthma (SA) combined with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in terms of clinical outcomes. Methods: This is a retrospective observational cohort research that was undertaken at the severe asthma clinics of the Armed Forces Hospital of the Southern Region (AFHSR) and King Khalid University Hospital, Abha, from March to September 2022 to delineate the effects of 3 biological therapies (dupilumab, benralizumab, and omalizumab) in adults with SA and concomitant CRS. Clinical outcomes assessed included asthma exacerbation frequency, hospitalization rates, use of oral corticosteroids (OCs), and the asthma control test (ACT) scores before and 1 year after biological therapies. Results: Eighty patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 46.68. There were 45 (56%) females and 35 (44%) males. There was a notifiable decrease in the frequency of exacerbations and hospitalization and in the number of patients who received OCs after 6 and 12 months of biological therapies compared to pre-biological therapies, respectively (p < 0.001 each), while there was a significant increase in the ACT scores at 6 and 12 months post-biological therapies, compared to pre-biological therapies, respectively (p < 0.001). These significant differences were maintained with all the 3 biologics used. Conclusions: Results from the first study from two large Saudi Arabian tertiary centers for patients with SA and CRS agree with and support those of worldwide real-life ones. One-year follow-up showed the effectiveness of the 3 drugs in terms of reduced frequency of asthma hospitalizations and exacerbations, the use of OCs, and improved ACT scores. Further prospective multicenter studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For Edith Stein, individualized education cannot be separated from personalized education, without these notions being synonymous. For our study we take the concepts of potency (Potenz) and act (Akt), developed in her work Finite and Eternal Being, and we link them to the words commonly used by the philosopher: unfolding (Entfaltung) and development (Entwicklung). The objective is to argue, from the point of view of Edith Stein's pedagogical thought, the individualized nature of all educational interventions, anthropologically justify it is need, and present the relationship that the author establishes with the concept of personalized education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) is heterogeneous in both phenotypes and endotypes. Due to insufficient head-to-head comparison studies, it is hard to decide which biological to initiate. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of omalizumab and mepolizumab which can be used in the treatment of patients with severe eosinophilic asthma diagnosed with N-ERD. Methods: The population of this observational, cross-sectional study comprised of N-ERD patients who received omalizumab or mepolizumab for at least 6 months for severe asthma. Outcomes included the asthma control test (ACT), and sino-nasal outcome test scores (SNOT-22), blood eosinophil counts at initiation of biological treatment (T0, baseline) and at the end of 6th months (T6). Adverse effects related to biological treatment and changes of oral corticosteroids dose was recorded. Results: The study included a total of 22 patients, of whom 11 received mepolizumab and 11 received omalizumab. The change in ACT, SNOT-22, eosinophil counts, and adverse effects related to biologicals were similar at T6 (p = 0.606, p = 0.168, p = 0.05, p = 0.053, respectively). However, when examining the SNOT-22 and ACT based on the cumulative distribution curve (SUCRA), mepolizumab (SUCRA value: 0.61, 0.72, respectively) demonstrated greater efficacy compared to omalizumab (SUCRA value: 0.19, 0.35, respectively). The oral corticosteroids discontinuation rate was similar between the two groups (p = 0.05). Conclusion: We found both omalizumab and mepolizumab to be effective in treatment; however, we determined that mepolizumab may have a potential superiority in efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by impaired glucose regulation. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Acceptance-Based Emotion Regulation Therapy (ABERT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on HbA1c levels and self-care behaviors in patients living with T2D. Participants were randomly assigned to ABERT (n = 16), ACT (n = 17), and control (n = 17) groups. The treatment groups received therapy based on treatment manuals, while the control group received treatment as usual (i.e., standard medical treatment). Assessments were conducted pre- and post-treatment, with a six-month follow-up, measuring HbA1c levels and self-care behaviors. Results from repeated-measures ANOVAs and post-hoc analysis demonstrated that both ABERT and ACT led to significant improvements compared to the control group. However, ABERT was more effective than ACT in reducing HbA1c levels and enhancing self-care behaviors, with sustained benefits observed in the long term. At the individual level, a higher percentage of participants in the ACT and ABERT groups experienced a global improvement in HbA1c compared to the control group during the post-test assessment. Furthermore, a higher percentage of participants in the ABERT group showed global improvement compared to both the ACT and control groups in the post-test to follow-up period. No statistically significant differences in self-care behaviors were observed between the groups at the individual level. These findings suggest that the ABERT may be a valuable intervention for individuals living with T2D, though more studies are needed to examine this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) enriched with compassion in altering dysfunctional communication beliefs among women seeking divorce. Methods: Statistical population of this study consisted of all women seeking divorce in District 4 of Tehran city in the year 2021, who were selected from counseling centers supervised by the Organization of Psychology and Welfare through convenience sampling. Next, Eidelson and Epstein's (1982) Communication Beliefs Questionnaires were distributed for completion, and 45 individuals who scored high on these scales were selected as the sample and randomly placed into two experimental groups and one control group (each group consisting of 15 individuals). For data analysis, descriptive statistical methods (frequency indices, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (multivariate repeated measures analysis of variance) using SPSS-24 were employed. Findings: Results indicated no significant difference between the ISTDP and ACT enriched with compassion in altering dysfunctional communication beliefs. Both groups showed improvement compared to the control group, but no significant difference was noted between the two in terms of effectiveness. Conclusion: Both ISTDP and ACT enriched with compassion are effective in reducing dysfunctional communication beliefs among women seeking divorce, with no significant difference in effectiveness between the two. This suggests that both therapeutic approaches can be beneficial in this context. Future research should consider broader and more diverse samples, longer follow-up periods, and comparisons to active control groups to further understand the sustained impact and efficacy of these therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacanian Beauty in his ethics is encapsulated as making decisions and "act[ing] in conformity with one's desires". This idea is thought while reading Munro's short stories to argue humans reconfigure their life through decision, transgression, act and love. Munro's characters are confined in the condition that contextualizes them through one limited interpretation, detaching them from their individuality. To get out of this condition they detach from the Other via acting on their Real desire. So the Real opens the space for the decision that postulates the possibility for transgression. Thus, it is claimed making decisions leads to transgression that necessitates act whereby love is experienced. This study through analyzing decision, transgression, act, love and their relation introduces neutrality as a novel idea about a stance in which Beauty in Lacanian ethics is founded. It demonstrates neutrality is a pure communication area not polluted by Symbolic Order, a singularity, a power stance, a varietal stance in which love is the law. In this neutral singularity, humans succeed in living a life in its full. Lacanian ethics and sociology are interconnected to demonstrate the new context of life human can live so as to bring forth new outlooks on ethics including Beauty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This commentary offers a critical reflection on the current status of evidence‐based psychological treatments for psychological distress in dementia, with a particular emphasis on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Purpose: The paper hypothesises several explanations, such as ethical dilemmas with recruitment and consent, and possible preconceptions surrounding the nature, scope and likelihood of therapeutic change in this population, for a lack of interventional research on people with dementia. Implications: We highlight some recent developments in psychological therapy with people with dementia that are raising more questions and generating new outcome research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2020, changes to the school curriculum in England and Wales have made elements of Personal, Social, and Health Education (PSHE) statutory. As schools grapple with these changes, alongside the psychosocial impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, it is important to consider effective ways of helping children make safe decisions and improve their overall mental health/wellbeing. Previous research has demonstrated the benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a treatment for range of psychological and behavioral disorders. As an extension of this, the DNA-V model provides a way of teaching children and adolescents the same psychological skills targeted within the ACT model in a more developmentally informed manner. Using scripted lesson plans, the Connect PSHE curriculum offers a research-informed curriculum for 4- to 11-year-olds so teachers can introduce the DNA-V model alongside the six ways to wellbeing. In this paper, we aimed to explore teachers' (N = 6) experiences of implementing Connect PSHE within a primary school context. Through semi-structured interviews and thematic content analysis, we identified six themes around the implementation process: (1) buy-in and engagement, (2) training and support for teachers, (3) program design, (4) creating a psychologically safe environment, (5) online delivery, (6) benefits. We outline how these findings support the existing literature around school-based ACT and reflect upon some of the feedback for future development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacanian Beauty in his ethics is encapsulated as making decisions and “act[ing] in conformity with one’s desires”. This idea is thought while reading Munro’s short stories to argue humans reconfigure their life through decision, transgression, act and love. Munro’s characters are confined in the condition that contextualizes them through one limited interpretation, detaching them from their individuality. To get out of this condition they detach from the Other via acting on their Real desire. So the Real opens the space for the decision that postulates the possibility for transgression. Thus, it is claimed making decisions leads to transgression that necessitates act whereby love is experienced. This study through analyzing decision, transgression, act, love and their relation introduces neutrality as a novel idea about a stance in which Beauty in Lacanian ethics is founded. It demonstrates neutrality is a pure communication area not polluted by Symbolic Order, a singularity, a power stance, a varietal stance in which love is the law. In this neutral singularity, humans succeed in living a life in its full. Lacanian ethics and sociology are interconnected to demonstrate the new context of life human can live so as to bring forth new outlooks on ethics including Beauty.

Abstract Background We aimed to study the impact of biological therapies in Saudi Arabia on patients with severe asthma (SA) combined with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in terms of clinical outcomes. Methods This is a retrospective observational cohort research that was undertaken at the severe asthma clinics of the Armed Forces Hospital of the Southern Region (AFHSR) and King Khalid University Hospital, Abha, from March to September 2022 to delineate the effects of 3 biological therapies (dupilumab, benralizumab, and omalizumab) in adults with SA and concomitant CRS. Clinical outcomes assessed included asthma exacerbation frequency, hospitalization rates, use of oral corticosteroids (OCs), and the asthma control test (ACT) scores before and 1 year after biological therapies. Results Eighty patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 46.68. There were 45 (56%) females and 35 (44%) males. There was a notifiable decrease in the frequency of exacerbations and hospitalization and in the number of patients who received OCs after 6 and 12 months of biological therapies compared to pre-biological therapies, respectively (p

Abstract Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) constitutes approximately 10% to 15% of all lung cancer diagnoses and represents a pressing global public health challenge due to its high mortality rates. The efficacy of conventional treatments for SCLC is suboptimal, characterized by limited anti-tumoral effects and frequent relapses. In this context, emerging research has pivoted towards immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy, a rapidly advancing field that has shown promise in ameliorating the clinical outcomes of SCLC patients. Through originally developed for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), these therapies have extended new treatment avenues for SCLC. Currently, a nexus of emerging hot-spot treatments has demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy. Based on the amalgamation of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and the development of new immunotherapy agents, the treatment of SCLC has seen the hoping future. Progress has been achieved in enhancing the tumor immune microenvironment through the concomitant use of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), as evinced by emerging clinical trial data. Moreover, a tripartite approach involving immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy appears auspicious for future clinical applications. Overcoming resistance to post-immunotherapy regimens remains an urgent area of exploration. Finally, bispecific antibodies, adoptive cell transfer (ACT), oncolytic virus, monotherapy, including Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3) and T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT), as well as precision medicine, may present a prospective route towards achieving curative outcomes in SCLC. This review aims to synthesize extant literature and highlight future directions in SCLC treatment, acknowledging the persistent challenges in the field. Furthermore, the continual development of novel therapeutic agents and technologies renders the future of SCLC treatment increasingly optimistic.

The study is devoted to the explication of the frame LOVE AFFAIR in the lexico-semantic system of the Russian language and speech itself. The research is based on the data from Russian etymological, explanatory dictionaries, dictionaries of synonyms, and modern podcasts. The urgency of the research is determined by the undying interest of scientists to the words that reflect stereotypes of people’s social interaction, which is explained by the importance of looking into ethical categories such as human acts. The lexemes that are examined in the study are selected from dictionaries with the help of the definitional analysis. The method of frame modelling is also used in the study to organize the data into a structure. In order to create a frame model of the act the following procedures are involved: the analysis of the semantics of the words that represent the situation of a love affair, the analysis of the synonyms and the combinability of the words. These procedures help to reconstruct the frame of the object in study. The next step is to verify the frame in modern speech. This paper is the first study of the concept LOVE AFFAIR in modern public communication such as podcasts. The choice of the material is explained by the fact that podcasts look at the most important questions from all angles. The research identifies the most important characteristics of all the elements of the situation «love affair», shows the interrelation of these elements, determines the peculiarities of the explication of the model in the language system and modern speech, marks the prototypical meanings of the structural elements. As a result, the conclusion about semantic broadening of the word affair is made, as well as reinterpretation of traditional negative evaluation of the act «love affair».

Abstract Background The wild boar (Sus scrofa) was extinct in Sweden when a few animals established in the 1970s. Over the past 35 years, the species has made a substantial comeback. In this paper, we analyse wild boar population growth using three indices of population size. We also map the legislative decisions and research prompted by the expanding population. We discuss to what extent, in the eyes of the state, the view of wild boar and the management focus has shifted over time, from a perceived pest (eradication) to scarce (conservation), overabundant (reduction/control) or somewhere in between (sustainable management). Results Wild boar harvest started in the early 1990s with a few hundred animals annually and peaked at 161,000 in 2020/2021. The distribution now comprises most of southern Sweden. Analyses of harvest and traffic accidents involving wild boar showed that the population grew exponentially until 2010/2011, after which the increase levelled off. Thus, logistic growth models showed the best fit for the full study period. We recorded 38 legislative decisions or commissions to government agencies regarding wild boar. The first decision in 1981 was to eradicate the free-ranging population. In 1987 however, the parliament decided that wild boar is native to Sweden and should be allowed in restricted extent. Later decisions mainly concerned hunting regulations and hunting methods as direct means to increase harvest and regulate the population. Another topic, increasing in importance over time, was to facilitate the use of wild boar meat to indirectly stimulate harvest. A local outbreak of African swine fever in 2023 necessitated a stamping out strategy in the affected area. We found 44 scientific papers regarding the present free-ranging population. Topics include movements and feeding patterns, hunting, reproduction, and population development. Conclusions The state historically regarded wild boar as a pest to be eradicated. This changed with the decision that wild boar should be allowed in restricted extent, suggesting a conservation approach. In response to population growth, the focus shifted to means facilitating sustainable management and, lately, reducing growth. The story of wild boar in Sweden illustrates attempts to mitigate conflicts and balance interests in wildlife management.

Background: Nigeria has the highest malaria burden globally, and anti-malarials have been commonly used to treat malaria without parasitological confirmation. In 2012, Nigeria implemented rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) to reduce the use of anti-malarials for those without malaria and to increase the use of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) for malaria treatment. This study examined changes in anti-malarial receipt among children aged 6–59 months during a 12-year period of increasing RDT availability. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) data from 2010 (before RDT implementation in 2012), 2015, and 2021. The analysis assessed trends in prevalence of malaria by survey RDT result, and fever and anti-malarial/ACT receipt in the 2 weeks prior to the survey. A multivariable logistic regression was used to account for the complex survey design and to examine factors associated with anti-malarial receipt, stratified by survey RDT result, a proxy for recent/current malaria infection. Results: In a nationally-representative, weighted sample of 22,802 children aged 6–59 months, fever prevalence remained stable over time, while confirmed malaria prevalence decreased from 51.2% in 2010 to 44.3% in 2015 and 38.5% in 2021 (trend test p < 0.0001). Anti-malarial use among these children decreased from 19% in 2010 to 10% in 2021 (trend test p < 0.0001), accompanied by an increase in ACT use (2% in 2010 to 8% in 2021; trend test p < 0.0001). Overall, among children who had experienced fever, 30.6% of survey RDT-positive and 36.1% of survey RDT-negative children had received anti-malarials. The proportion of anti-malarials obtained from the private sector increased from 61.8% in 2010 to 80.1% in 2021 for RDT-positive children; most of the anti-malarials received in 2021 were artemisinin-based combinations. Factors associated with anti-malarial receipt for both RDT-positive and RDT-negative children included geographic region, greater household wealth, higher maternal education, and older children. Conclusion: From 2010 to 2021 in Nigeria, both malaria prevalence and anti-malarial treatments among children aged 6–59 months decreased, as RDT availability increased. Among children who had fever in the prior 2 weeks, anti-malarial receipt was similar between children with either positive or negative survey RDT results, indicative of persistent challenges in reducing inappropriate anti-malarials uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scrutiny about and controversy regarding the use of college admissions tests have increased since COVID‐19 eliminated mass face‐to‐face testing. At that time, many selective colleges chose to make their admissions decisions without using such tests. More recently, the controversy has been sustained as some selective colleges and universities have reinstated requiring test scores. These tests, primarily the ACT and SAT, have received empirical support but also have faced substantial criticism from test critics and researchers. This paper examines contributions of admissions tests for predicting college outcomes in the presence of additional information available for making college decisions. We investigate relations of ACT tests with academic outcomes for four successive (2011–2014) first‐year cohorts at a large, moderately selective Midwestern Research 1 university. Analyses examine how strongly ACT college admissions tests are related to short‐ and long‐term college success for students controlling for their backgrounds (citizenship, race/ethnicity, first‐generation, sex, socio‐economic status). ACT tests contributed modestly to the prediction of first‐year performance. However, with first year college GPA included, ACT tests failed to add to the prediction of GPA in years 2, 3, and 4, and to prediction of dropout and graduation. These findings inform conversations about the use of college admissions tests post‐COVID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an empirically supported psychotherapy that offers promise for the mental health of minoritised ethnic populations. Given the diversity of those presenting to inner-city services and barriers to accessing appropriate mental healthcare, we sought to develop a culturally syntonic ACT intervention for UK Vietnamese refugee communities in a practice-based partnership project between a National Health Service and local third-sector service in East London. The aim was to explore the feasibility, acceptability and impact of the adapted intervention to inform culturally inclusive clinical practice and future research. We outline key aspects of Vietnamese belief systems and culture, and consider how these might influence the optimisation of group-based ACT. We then present a mixed-method evaluation of the seven-session adapted ACT group for 11 participants (9 male and 5 female, aged between 44 and 73 years). Individual-level change analyses indicated clinically significant improvements in psychological flexibility for the minority of participants and a mixed pattern for impact on well-being. A thematic analysis and descriptive approach examined acceptability, feasibility and narratives of impact. Participants reported positive feedback on group experience, relevance and usefulness, and emergent themes indicate that the group facilitated key acceptance, commitment and behaviour-change processes, promoted social connections and increased engagement in meaningful life activities in relation to new perspectives and values-based action. Limitations are outlined, but overall, findings suggest preliminary support for the potential beneficial effect of the adapted ACT group as a feasible, culturally acceptable therapeutic approach for UK Vietnamese communities that is worthy of further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most prevalent types of child abuse is child neglect. India is a home to the largest child population in the world, with almost 41 per cent of the total population under eighteen years of age. But in this scenario, According to the Times of India 2023, 90% of children are abused in one way or the other before they attain the age of 18. The health and security of the country's children is an integral part of nation's progress and development. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) define that child maltreatment as harm experienced by a children under the age of 18 years by an adult or child that is in the form of physical, sexual or emotional but can also involve a lack of love, care and attention. Child neglect is very common serious public health problem and it has adverse effects on childhood experiences. It affects the health, opportunity, and wellbeing of children in their later life. Any form of neglect of a child under the age of eighteen by a parent, caregiver, or any person acting in a custodial capacity is considered child neglect. The important contributing factors of child neglect are socio-economic conditions of the family, living arrangements and living with domestic violence, parental mental health and drug and alcohol use. The prevalence of child neglect can be reduced through creating awareness of their rights among the children, especially the right to protection, among parents and other stakeholders, must strictly follow the laws (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act) to punish those who abuse/exploit the children and take action to strengthen accountability on the part of government, NGOs and the civil society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) has been found efficacious in randomized clinical trials (RCTs), but the two widely known RCTs were conducted within the United States with predominantly White samples. Research that evaluates treatments like ACT for OCD outside the typical Western cultures is needed. The current scoping review summarizes the key characteristics and findings from 18 RCTs that evaluated ACT for OCD in Iran. These RCTs are largely unknown in the broader scientific literature despite representing the vast majority of ACT for OCD trials, in part because the majority are published in Persian. The preponderance of RCTs treated participants in groups, and most protocols did not include exposure exercises. Of 18 trials, 5 were single sex. Use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) was common with all participants on stable doses at pretreatment in many of the trials. Methodological quality was low to medium. ACT was inconsistent against nontraditional comparison conditions, slightly favorable to empirically validated treatments, and favorable compared with the waitlist and SSRIs. The process of change data indicated that ACT increased the psychological flexibility more than cognitive behavior therapy or SSRIs. These results highlight that findings on ACT for OCD from Western populations replicate and generalize to individuals in Iran. These findings also offer insights gained from studying ACT in Iran and significantly expand the literature based on ACT for OCD that can be integrated into scholarship by all researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study is designed to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression among asthmatic patients living in Amman, Jordan. Additionally, it evaluates the effect of asthma control levels using the correct inhaler technique on anxiety and depression. Method: This single-blinded, randomized, interventional, active-control study was conducted at the University of Jordan Hospital in the period between March and August of 2019. Asthmatic patients in the active group were counseled on the correct inhaler technique using placebo inhalers and using sticky labels on their prescribed inhalers. At the baseline and after three months, both groups were assessed on their asthma level of control, anxiety and depression using the asthma control test (ACT), general anxiety disorder (GAD-7) and patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), respectively. A total of 159 asthmatic adult patients were recruited and randomized into active groups (n = 79) and control groups (n = 78) using controller inhalers, either Turbohaler or Accuhaler or both. Results: ACT, GAD7, and PHQ9 were assessed at the baseline and no statistically significant difference between both groups was found (P-value < 0.001). At follow-up, ACT, GAD7, and PHQ9 showed significant differences in the active group with mean ± SD of 21.21±5.26, (P-value < 0.001), 3.84 ±4.782, (P-value < 0.001), 6.4±6.4115, (P-value < 0.001), respectively. At the same time, the difference in the mean score for control group patients did not reach a significant level. Conclusion: The prevalence of psychological disorders among asthmatic patients is common and directly related to the asthma level of control. Improvements in the ACT can lead to significant improvements in patient anxiety and depression related to asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The wild boar (Sus scrofa) was extinct in Sweden when a few animals established in the 1970s. Over the past 35 years, the species has made a substantial comeback. In this paper, we analyse wild boar population growth using three indices of population size. We also map the legislative decisions and research prompted by the expanding population. We discuss to what extent, in the eyes of the state, the view of wild boar and the management focus has shifted over time, from a perceived pest (eradication) to scarce (conservation), overabundant (reduction/control) or somewhere in between (sustainable management). Results: Wild boar harvest started in the early 1990s with a few hundred animals annually and peaked at 161,000 in 2020/2021. The distribution now comprises most of southern Sweden. Analyses of harvest and traffic accidents involving wild boar showed that the population grew exponentially until 2010/2011, after which the increase levelled off. Thus, logistic growth models showed the best fit for the full study period. We recorded 38 legislative decisions or commissions to government agencies regarding wild boar. The first decision in 1981 was to eradicate the free-ranging population. In 1987 however, the parliament decided that wild boar is native to Sweden and should be allowed in restricted extent. Later decisions mainly concerned hunting regulations and hunting methods as direct means to increase harvest and regulate the population. Another topic, increasing in importance over time, was to facilitate the use of wild boar meat to indirectly stimulate harvest. A local outbreak of African swine fever in 2023 necessitated a stamping out strategy in the affected area. We found 44 scientific papers regarding the present free-ranging population. Topics include movements and feeding patterns, hunting, reproduction, and population development. Conclusions: The state historically regarded wild boar as a pest to be eradicated. This changed with the decision that wild boar should be allowed in restricted extent, suggesting a conservation approach. In response to population growth, the focus shifted to means facilitating sustainable management and, lately, reducing growth. The story of wild boar in Sweden illustrates attempts to mitigate conflicts and balance interests in wildlife management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2022, Malaysia was ranked 28th worldwide in terms of its energy oil consumption. Energy consumption in Malaysia has been predominantly reliant on natural gas and coal in both the past and present. Oil and gas in Malaysia are predicted to be depleted in 14 years due to the high energy consumption, especially from petroleum sources. Thus, the Malaysian government aims to expand renewable energy (RE) in the country's energy mix as an alternative source of energy. As of 2022, Malaysia has generated roughly 2% of its electricity from various renewable sources, which is still far from the initial target of reaching 20% RE penetration by 2030. However, since 2017, RE has started to contribute to energy mix generation. Several policies, including an act, have been implemented in Malaysia to achieve the target in RE, but many challenges and difficulties have hindered the progress. Thus, the present study explored the current status and challenges for RE in Malaysia and discussed the effectiveness of the available energy policies and programs. The outcomes are potentially valuable to Malaysian policymakers, industries and researchers to improve their current practices for achieving the initial national RE target by 2030 as well as to move forward towards net zero emissions by 2050. This study provides a crucial roadmap for Malaysia to achieve its RE objectives and contribute significantly to the international transition towards a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of CIRCULO de Linguistica Aplicada a la Comunicacion is the property of Universidad Complutense de Madrid and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Highlights An AI-enabled web application was developed to classify insects on sticky traps. The AI models were trained on images exposed to real environmental conditions. Automated insect identification can enhance integrated pest management. This technology could be used in other environmental applications. The Huanglongbing (HLB) disease has had a devastating impact on several citrus production areas across the world. The disease is associated with three phloem-limited bacteria of the Candidatus Liberibacter group, which can be vectored by citrus-infesting psyllids. In Florida, it is vectored by Diaphorina citri, also known as Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), and in South Africa, by a native species, Trioza erytreae, or African citrus triozid (ACT). For better disease management, continued monitoring of these vectors is highly recommended. Furthermore, it is important to keep track of other related psyllids that reside in citrus environments (e.g., the South African native Diaphorina specimens DN, such as D. virgata, D. punctulata, and D. zebrana), as well as natural predators of psyllids (e.g., lady beetles, LB). Among the tools used to monitor pests in the field, sticky traps are one of the most common and widely used. Analyzing the traps and identifying the specimens of interest usually require specialized personnel, which can be costly and time-consuming. In an effort to automate this process, a web application called “Psyllid Detector” was developed. Three YOLOv7-based object detection algorithms (YOLOv7, YOLOv7-ResNet50, and YOLOv7-ResNeXt50) were selected to train six models using two datasets (South Africa and Florida datasets) composed of yellow sticky trap pictures taken from several citrus orchards. Three models were trained to detect ACP and LB using the Florida dataset, and three were trained to detect DN and ACT in the South Africa dataset. The models trained with the original YOLOv7 for both datasets showed the best overall results. For example, for the ACT detection in the South Africa dataset, precision, recall, and F1 scores of 90%, 70%, and 79% were achieved, respectively. By automating the process of insect detection, farmers can save time and resources and make informed decisions about pest control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSubstance misuse is a pressing public health concern, especially among emerging adults, with implications for psychological health and overall well-being. This cross-sectional study investigates the mediating roles of self-compassion and subjective well-being in the relationship between psychological flexibility and substance misuse among Turkish college students. The study included 445 emerging adults enrolled at a state university in Türkiye. University participants were recruited via convenience sampling using snowball methods. Data were collected using self-report scales. The sample was 69% female (n = 307) and 31% male (n = 138) and ranged in age from 18 to 26 years (M = 20.85, SD = 1.35). In the study, Pearson product-moment correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between the variables and then the serial mediation model was tested. The findings have revealed that psychological flexibility significantly predicts substance misuse, subjective well-being, and self-compassion. Additionally, the study identifies self-compassion as a mediator in the relationship between psychological flexibility and subjective well-being. While self-compassion contributes significantly to well-being, it does not explain the impact of psychological flexibility on substance misuse. Furthermore, subjective well-being also appears to be a mediator in the relationship between psychological flexibility and substance misuse, emphasizing its potential significance in reducing the likelihood of resorting substance misuse. Overall, the study contributes to understanding the pivotal role of self-compassion and psychological flexibility in fostering well-being and preventing substance misuse in the college setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria poses a global threat to human health, with millions of cases and thousands of deaths each year, mainly affecting developing countries in tropical and subtropical regions. Malaria's causative agent is Plasmodium species, generally transmitted in the hematophagous act of female Anopheles sp. mosquitoes. The main approaches to fighting malaria are eliminating the parasite through drug treatments and preventing transmission with vector control. However, vector and parasite resistance to current strategies set a challenge. In response to the loss of drug efficacy and the environmental impact of pesticides, the focus shifted to the search for biocompatible products that could be antimalarial. Plant derivatives have a millennial application in traditional medicine, including the treatment of malaria, and show toxic effects towards the parasite and the mosquito, aside from being accessible and affordable. Its disadvantage lies in the type of administration because green chemical compounds rapidly degrade. The nanoformulation of these compounds can improve bioavailability, solubility, and efficacy. Thus, the nanotechnology-based development of plant products represents a relevant tool in the fight against malaria. We aim to review the effects of nanoparticles synthesized with plant extracts on Anopheles and Plasmodium while outlining the nanotechnology green synthesis and current malaria prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This systematic review investigates the influence of adenotonsillectomy (AT) on asthma control in pediatric patients. Material and methods: A literature review from 2000 to 2023 based on the databases PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. The analysis is distilled down to four studies that revealed positive outcomes in asthma control as gauged by the Asthma Control Test (ACT), the Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT), clinical outcomes, and asthma-related chitinase levels. Results: The four studies consistently demonstrated improved asthma control postoperatively in terms of improved ACT scores, reductions in acute asthma exacerbations, emergency room visits, hospitalisations, and medication usage. Notably, the correlation between improved asthma control and decreased chitinase activity suggests that AT has an impact on molecular markers associated with asthma. Conclusions: The findings underline the potential benefits of AT in pediatric asthma management. However, the limitations of this study include a small number of studies and potential biases related to asthma's natural course and seasonal variations. While the review provides evidence for the positive impact of AT on asthma control, further research with longer follow-up periods, case-matched controls, and consideration of seasonal factors is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expert consensus statement on catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation recommends administering heparin prior to or immediately following transseptal puncture during catheter ablation procedures to achieve and maintain an activated clotting time (ACT) of at least 300 seconds, aiming to prevent thromboembolic complications. This study aimed to evaluate a novel approach for determining the initial dose of heparin likely to achieve an ACT ≥ 300 seconds. The initial dose of heparin was calculated based on estimated blood volume and the appropriate average heparin:ACT dose-response curve (HDR). An individual HDR was derived for each patient and utilized for subsequent calculations. The average HDR was recalculated for each of six pre-procedural oral anticoagulant groups (no oral anticoagulant, aspirin, apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or warfarin) to estimate the likely heparin dose required to achieve the target ACT for subsequent patients. The ACT results from the first heparin dose using the novel method were compared with a traditional weight-based dosing approach. Overall, 87.4% of patients achieved an ACT of >300 seconds following the first dose of heparin, compared with 46.2% if the weight-based approach had been used. The type of oral anticoagulant and the choice of ACT machine affect the mean slope of the HDR. The novel approach described was superior to a weight-based approach. This new method improves the estimation of therapeutic doses, adjusting for the specific oral anticoagulant the patient is taking and the type of ACT machine used. Once the heparin:ACT dose-response curve is determined for an individual patient, subsequent doses of heparin can be estimated to achieve a desired ACT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of the current investigation was to compare the efficacy of resilience training and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in enhancing the emotion self-regulation and self-efficacy among employees of Shiraz oil companies. Methods: This study employed a semi-experimental design consisting of pre-test and post-test assessments with a control group. The statistical population for this study encompassed all employees of oil companies in Shiraz in 2022. A total of 75 individuals were selected through a convenience sampling method and assigned to three groups (first experimental group: 25 individuals; second experimental group: 25 individuals; control group: 25 individuals). The first experimental group underwent resilience treatment program, while the second experimental group received ACT. The control group did not receive any specific intervention. Data collection involved the utilization of emotional regulation questionnaire (Gratz & Roemer, 2004) and Sherer's General Self-Efficacy Scale (SGSES; 1982). Results: The findings revealed a significant difference in emotional self-regulation between the control group and the training groups that were based on ACT and resilience. However, there was no significant difference in the impact of the ACT compared to resilience on the emotional self-regulation of the participants. Furthermore, a significant difference was observed in self-efficacy between the control group and the training groups based on ACT and resilience. Conclusions: Consequently, it can be concluded that both interventions exerted a significant influence on the self-efficacy of participants. Moreover, a noteworthy distinction was found between the ACT and resilience training. In essence, it can be stated that the teaching method based on acceptance and commitment had a greater effect on the self-efficacy of the participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The actin (ACT) family genes are essential for plant growth and development. However, the evolution and function of the ACT family within the Rosaceae species, particularly in pear, remain poorly understood. Here, we identified 41 ACT genes across five Rosaceae species based on phylogenetic and structural features that can be categorized into two primary groups: subfamily I (reproductive) and II (vegetative). Evolutionary analysis suggests that purifying selection played a crucial role in the evolution of the ACT family in Rosaceae, and whole genome duplication (WGD) and dispersed duplication led to the expansion of ACT genes. The pear genome contains twelve ACT genes, which can be classified into two groups based on their phylogeny and expression patterns: reproductive (PbrACT1-5) and vegetative (PbrACT6-12), further validating the reliability of the ACT family classification in Rosaceae. Expression analysis of twelve PbrACT genes across various pear tissues indicated that five genes from subfamily I (PbrACT1-5) were predominantly expressed in pollen tubes, with PbrACT1 exhibiting the highest level of expression. Knockdown of PbrACT1 expression in pear pollen tubes significantly diminished F-actin levels, triggered F-actin depolymerization, and resulted in pollen tube growth inhibition, indicating that PbrACT1 is essential for the formation of the microfilament skeleton during pear pollen tube growth. Overall, this study offers significant insights into the evolution and function of ACT genes in Rosaceae and enhances our understanding of PbrACT in microfilament formation in pear pollen tubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Opole Studies in Administration & Law (OSAO) / Opolskie Studia Administracyjno-Prawne (OSAP) is the property of University of Opole / Uniwersytet Opolski and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Unfractionated heparin is a widely used anticoagulant in critically ill patients. It has a well-established safety profile and remains an attractive option for clinicians due to its short half-life and reversibility. Heparin has a unique pharmacokinetic profile, which contributes to significant inter-patient and intra-patient variability in effect. The variability in anticoagulant effect combined with heparin's short half-life mean close monitoring is required for clinical efficacy and preventing adverse effects. To optimize heparin use in critically ill patients, effective monitoring assays and dose adjustment strategies are needed. This paper explores the use of heparin as an anticoagulant and optimal approaches to monitoring in critically ill patients. Conventional monitoring assays for heparin dosing have significant limitations. Emerging data appear to favor using anti-Xa assay monitoring for heparin anticoagulation, which many centers have successfully adopted as the standard. The anti-Xa assay appears have important benefits relative to the aPTT for heparin monitoring in critically ill patients, and should be considered for broader use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to qualitatively examine the impact of an online self-regulation intervention (SI) and mindfulness intervention (MI) in improving exercise-induced-pain (EIP) management, mental performance (i.e., SI and MI), and mental health. A sample of 16 middle-distance runners who participated in an 8-week SI or MI was purposefully selected based on the participants' high, moderate, and low pre–post intervention evolution scores. Findings, which were generated by performing a codebook thematic analysis, suggest that both the SI and MI positively impacted EIP management, mental performance, and mental health. EIP literacy enabled the participants from both interventions to more effectively manage EIP. Furthermore, screening for mental illness symptoms and referring athletes in a timely manner to appropriate mental health practitioners was perceived as essential for them to receive the care and support they needed. Finally, a hybrid delivery format may be the most effective when providing online sport psychology interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. To assess clinical and demographic characteristics of severe asthma (SA) patients and their management in Russian Federation. Materials and methods. This publication provides data for Russian part of population of the international observational study. In Phase I, retrospective analysis of medical records of patients with SA was performed with assessment of clinical and demographic data, medical history, comorbidities, treatment approaches and healthcare utilization. Phase II was a cross-sectional collection of patient-reported outcomes: level of asthma control assessed by ACT (Asthma Control Test) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measured using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. Phase I patients were enrolled into Phase II if they signed a written consent form. Results. A total of 315 patients were included in Phase I of the study, 106 (33.6%) of them entered Phase II. Majority of study participants were either obese (n=103; 39.8%) or overweight (n=94; 36.3%). The most common comorbidities were cardiovascular diseases (n=217; 71.4%), followed by chronic respiratory diseases (n=198; 68.8%). There were 268 (85.1%) patients who had at least one exacerbation during last 12 months. Data for blood eosinophil count were available in 176 patients; 81.3% of them (n=143) had only one test in the last 12 months. The mean (SD) last available blood eosinophil count was 161.2 (181.2) cells/mm3. Serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) value was known for 88 patients, and the mean (SD) last measured IgE value was 254.3 (249.7) ng/mL. Only 4.7% of Phase II participants had ACT scores indicative of controlled asthma (20). As much as 74.5% had scores ≤15 suggesting uncontrolled disease. Most patients also had impaired HRQoL. Conclusion. Most SA patients had poor disease control with frequent exacerbations and high number of comorbidities. Blood eosinophils and IgE level measurements were not evaluated routinely which might be a barrier for appropriate phenotyping and treatment selection.

In this article we highlight some of the anthropological themes that Stein explored in his phenomenological analysis of youth and, particularly, in the essay Psychic Causality: motivation, as the emergence of one act from another; basic acts and free acts, with special reference to acts of faith and love; feelings in their relationship with values; the core of personality. The biographical context is taken into account, which partly justifies the interest in the research, and it is shown how this constitutes a foundation from which Stein's exploration in theological anthropology springs after his conversion. The conclusions highlight an anthropological vision focused on the revaluation of the sphere of affections and the tension between freedom and grace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first part of this paper explains the praxeological interpretation of the noological concept of act. The second part describes Antonio González Fernández's criticisms of that notion. His objection consists in pointing out that acts cannot be considered real things, but only the arising of these. From this observation on noology, González Fernández not only gives rise to his praxeology (also known as hiparqueology), but also his philosophical system begins to be questioned for not explaining what acts are, in the world of facts, beyond the assumption that they are there, despite being invisible. In the third and last section, some hypotheses are presented to address objections to the praxeological concept of act, such as the one mentioned above and the apparent circularities and possible contradictions within the praxeological system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence suggests that individuals with infertility are confronted with psychosocial challenges. This has led to a significant number of studies highlighting the subsequent negative effects on mental health. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has already been established as having a beneficial effect on psychological issues related to other health conditions. Since infertility is a relevant stressor, ACT was also expected to have a protective effect on the mental health of individuals with this disease. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies assessing Infertility and ACT. Empirical and quantitative studies were considered when they assessed mental health variables and ACT hexagon model components in patients with infertility. Out of the 137 studies initially identified, six met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The samples were composed of women (three) and couples (three). Since ACT variables appear to be associated with better mental health outcomes, couples with infertility were expected to benefit from intervention addressing ACT components. Implications for future research include the need for a distinction between ACT variables, the use of validated assessment methods and the empirical examination of predictors of changes in ACT variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]