bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Butterfly diversity of Putalibazar Municipality, Syangja District, Gandaki Province, Nepal
Authors: Neupane Kismat , Miya Mahamad Sayab
Published: June 2021

A study was carried out to find the butterfly species diversity and abundance in Putalibazar Municipality, Syangja, Gandaki, Nepal, from June 2019 to July 2020. Pollard walk method was used for data collection in three different habitat types: forest, agricultural land, and settlement area. The study was performed in all seasons: pre-monsoon, monsoon, post monsoon and winter. A total of 180 butterfly species from 108 genera and six families were recorded. The overall Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H) was 4.48. The highest diversity was represented by the Nymphalidae with 67 species (H= 3.79). Butterfly diversity and species abundance was highest in the forest area (147 species, 1199 individuals; H= 4.47). The highest species richness (109 species) was observed in the monsoon season.
A study on the community structure of damselflies (Insecta: Odonata: Zygoptera) in Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India
Authors: Jana Pathik Kumar , Mallick Priyanka Halder , Bhattacharya Tanmay
Published: June 2021

For gauging suitability of zygopteran odonates as bioindicators of ecosystems, an attempt was made to record the seasonal diversity of damselflies from seven different types of habitats in Paschim Medinipur District, West Bengal covering 14 land use sites. The study revealed existence of 19 species of damselflies belonging to 10 genera under two families. While the riparian zone had maximum number of species (15), paddy field had the lowest number (six). Ceriagrion coromandelianum and Agriocnemis pygmaea were the most common species. C. coromandelianum was eudominant in grassland and wetland-forest interface, whereas A. pygmaea was eudominant in fish pond and paddy field. Six species, viz., Paracercion calamorum, P. malayanum, Pseudagrion australasiae, P. decorum, P. spencei, and P. microcephalum were confined only to the riparian zone. Maximum abundance of damselflies was found in the riparian zone and minimum in the paddy field. Damselflies exhibited a distinct peak in March–April and a lesser peak in September–October. Most of the land use patterns exhibited similar zygopteran faunal composition. Species diversity index was moderate (1.4–2.5) and evenness index was on the higher side (0.76–0.94). Dominance Index ranged from 26.2 to 64.6. Riparian zone appeared to be the least stressed and most equitable habitat with highest diversity and evenness index and lowest dominance index. Paddy field seemed to be the harshest habitat for damselflies with least diversity and highest dominance index. The present study suggests that community analysis of damselflies can be quite useful in the assessment of the quality of any ecosystem.
Habitat selection of Himalayan Musk Deer Moschus leucogaster (Mammalia: Artiodactyla: Moschidae) with respect to biophysical attributes in Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal
Authors: Neupane Bijaya , Chhetri Nar Bahadur , Dhami Bijaya
Published: June 2021

Himalayan or White-bellied Musk Deer Moschus leucogaster, an IUCN indexed endangered species, is distributed in isolated pockets in the Himalaya. The deer population is decreasing owing to several pressures that include habitat loss and fragmentation, and poaching. It is essential to identify preferred habitat characteristics to support appropriate management strategies for conserving this endangered species. This study was carried out in the Nysheang basin of Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal to identify habitats preferred by the musk deer. Habitat field parameters were collected using transect surveys. To analyze vegetation use and availability, nested quadrate plots size 20 m2 were established. Ivlev’s electivity index (IV) (-1 to +1) was employed to determine habitat preference, and one-way ANOVA (F) and chi-square tests (χ2) were used to examine different habitat parameters. Similarly, the importance value index (IVI) of the vegetation was calculated. Our results showed that the Himalayan Musk Deer strongly preferred habitats at 3601–3800 m altitude (IV= 0.3, F= 4.58, P <0.05), with 21–30º slope (IV= 0.2, F= 4.14, P <0.05), 26–50 % crown cover (IV= 0.25, F= 4.45, P <0.05), 26–50 % ground cover (IV= 0.15, F= 4.13, P <0.05), and mixed forest (IV= 0.29, χ2= 28.82, df= 3, p <0.001). Among the trees, Abies spectabilis (IVI= 74.87, IV= 0.035) and Rhododendron arboretum (IVI= 55.41, IV= 0.02) were the most preferred, while Rhododendron lepidotum, Cassiope fastigiata (IV= 0.35) and Berberis aristata (IV= 0.25) were the most preferred shrubs, and Primula denticulata (IV= 0.87) and Primula rotundifolia (IV= 0.31) were the most preferred herbs. These preferred habitat conditions should be maintained and conserved to sustain a viable population of deer in the study area. Further studies will be required to assess the effects of climate change on habitat suitability.
New records of Agriocnemis keralensis Peters, 1981 and Gynacantha khasiaca MacLachlan, 1896 (Insecta: Odonata) from Maharashtra, India
Authors: Koli Yogesh , Dalvi Akshay , Sawant Dattaprasad
Published: June 2021

Agriocnemis keralensis Peters, 1981 is reported for the first time from Maharashtra, India.  Previously it was known from Kerala and Goa states.  In this paper we report A. keralensis from Thakurwadi and Bambuli wetlands and Chipi Plateau, Sindhudurg District. Also, the new record of Gynacantha khasiaca MacLachlan, 1896 is confirmed on the basis of specimens collected from Sindhudurg District.  Hence, we report the range extension of both A. keralensis and G. khasiaca in northern Western Ghats.  Apart from this, a combined checklist of Odonata fauna of Thakurwadi (51 species), Bambuli wetlands (44 species), and Chipi Plateau (51 species) is provided.
Long‐Term Blood Pressure Variability and Risk of Cognitive Decline and Dementia Among Older Adults
Authors: Ernst Michael E. , Ryan Joanne , Chowdhury Enayet K. , Margolis Karen L. , Beilin Lawrence J. , Reid Christopher M. , Nelson Mark R. , Woods Robyn L. , Shah Raj C. , Orchard Suzanne G. , Wolfe Rory , Storey Elsdon , Tonkin Andrew M. , Brodtmann Amy , McNeil John J. , Murray Anne M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Blood pressure variability (BPV) in midlife increases risk of late‐life dementia, but the impact of BPV on the cognition of adults who have already reached older ages free of major cognitive deficits is unknown. We examined the risk of incident dementia and cognitive decline associated with long‐term, visit‐to‐visit BPV in a post hoc analysis of the ASPREE (Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly) trial.

Methods and Results

ASPREE participants (N=19 114) were free of dementia and significant cognitive impairment at enrollment. Measurement of BP and administration of a standardized cognitive battery evaluating global cognition, delayed episodic memory, verbal fluency, and processing speed and attention occurred at baseline and follow‐up visits. Time‐to‐event analysis using Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and corresponding 95% CI for incident dementia and cognitive decline, according to tertile of SD of systolic BPV. Individuals in the highest BPV tertile compared with the lowest had an increased risk of incident dementia and cognitive decline, independent of average BP and use of antihypertensive drugs. There was evidence that sex modified the association with incident dementia (interaction
P
=0.02), with increased risk in men (HR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.19–2.39) but not women (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.72–1.42). For cognitive decline, similar increased risks were observed for men and women (interaction
P
=0.15; men: HR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.16–1.59; women: HR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.98–1.32).

Conclusions

High BPV in older adults without major cognitive impairment, particularly men, is associated with increased risks of dementia and cognitive decline.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01038583;
isrctn.com
. Identifier: ISRCTN83772183.
Discordance Between Severity of Heart Failure as Determined by Patient Report Versus Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
Authors: Michelis Katherine C. , Grodin Justin L. , Zhong Lin , Pandey Ambarish , Toto Kathleen , Ayers Colby R. , Thibodeau Jennifer T. , Drazner Mark H.
Published: June 2021

Background

Patient‐reported outcomes may be discordant to severity of illness as assessed by objective parameters. The frequency of this discordance and its influence on clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure is unknown.

Methods and Results

In HF‐ACTION (Heart Failure: A Controlled Trial Investigating Outcomes of Exercise Training), participants (N=2062) had baseline assessment of health‐related quality of life via the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Clinical Summary score (KCCQ‐CS) and objective severity by cardiopulmonary stress testing (minute ventilation [V
E
]/carbon dioxide production [VCO
2
] slope). We defined 4 groups by median values: 2 concordant (lower severity: high KCCQ‐CS and low V
E
/VCO
2
slope; higher severity: low KCCQ‐CS and high V
E
/VCO
2
slope) and 2 discordant (symptom minimizer: high KCCQ‐CS and high V
E
/VCO
2
slope; symptom magnifier: low KCCQ‐CS and low V
E
/VCO
2
slope). The association of group assignment with mortality was assessed in adjusted Cox models. Symptom magnification (23%) and symptom minimization (23%) were common. Despite comparable KCCQ‐CS scores, the risk of all‐cause mortality in symptom minimizers versus concordant–lower severity participants was increased significantly (hazard ratio [HR], 1.79; 95% CI, 1.27–2.50;
P
<0.001). Furthermore, despite symptom magnifiers having a KCCQ‐CS score 28 points lower (poorer QOL) than symptom minimizers, their risk of mortality was not increased (HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.57–1.1;
P
=0.18, respectively).

Conclusions

Severity of illness by patient report versus cardiopulmonary exercise testing was frequently discordant. Mortality tracked more closely with the objective data, highlighting the importance of relying not only on patient report, but also objective data when risk stratifying patients with heart failure.
Lower In‐Hospital Mortality With Beta‐Blocker Use at Admission in Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Tamaki Yodo , Yaku Hidenori , Morimoto Takeshi , Inuzuka Yasutaka , Ozasa Neiko , Yamamoto Erika , Yoshikawa Yusuke , Miyake Makoto , Kondo Hirokazu , Tamura Toshihiro , Kitai Takeshi , Iguchi Moritake , Nagao Kazuya , Nishikawa Ryusuke , Kawase Yuichi , Morinaga Takashi , Kawato Mitsunori , Toyofuku Mamoru , Sato Yukihito , Kuwahara Koichiro , Nakagawa Yoshihisa , Kato Takao , Kimura Takeshi ,   the KCHF Study Investigators
Published: June 2021

Background

It remains unclear whether beta‐blocker use at hospital admission is associated with better in‐hospital outcomes in patients with acute decompensated heart failure.

Methods and Results

We evaluated the factors independently associated with beta‐blocker use at admission, and the effect of beta‐blocker use at admission on in‐hospital mortality in 3817 patients with acute decompensated heart failure enrolled in the Kyoto Congestive Heart Failure registry. There were 1512 patients (39.7%) receiving, and 2305 patients (60.3%) not receiving beta‐blockers at admission for the index acute decompensated heart failure hospitalization. Factors independently associated with beta‐blocker use at admission were previous heart failure hospitalization, history of myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy, and estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. Factors independently associated with no beta‐blocker use were asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lower body mass index, dementia, older age, and left ventricular ejection fraction <40%. Patients on beta‐blockers had significantly lower in‐hospital mortality rates (4.4% versus 7.6%,
P
<0.001). Even after adjusting for confounders, beta‐blocker use at admission remained significantly associated with lower in‐hospital mortality risk (odds ratio, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.27–0.60,
P
<0.001). Furthermore, beta‐blocker use at admission was significantly associated with both lower cardiovascular mortality risk and lower noncardiovascular mortality risk. The association of beta‐blocker use with lower in‐hospital mortality risk was relatively more prominent in patients receiving high dose beta‐blockers. The magnitude of the effect of beta‐blocker use was greater in patients with previous heart failure hospitalization than in patients without (
P
for interaction 0.04).

Conclusions

Beta‐blocker use at admission was associated with lower in‐hospital mortality in patients with acute decompensated heart failure.

Registration

URL:
https://www.upload.umin.ac.jp/
; Unique identifier: UMIN000015238.
Wealth Accumulation and Opportunity Hoarding: Class-Origin Wealth Gaps over a Quarter of a Century in a Scandinavian Country
Authors: Hansen Marianne Nordli , Toft Maren
Published: June 2021

Although the Scandinavian countries are often considered to epitomize social democratic governance, Scandinavia’s profound wealth inequalities, seen in relation to the more modest income differences, constitutes a fascinating paradox. Drawing on class theoretical concerns with strategies for reproduction and a Bourdieusian emphasis on class fractions, we explore how class-origin wealth gaps evolved over the past 25 years in Norway, and how they compare to class-origin income gaps. First, we find that class-origin wealth gaps have increased in recent years, whereas income inequalities are fairly persistent among men, and increasing among women. We find that educational attainment is important for channeling income inequality, but that education is less important for understanding wealth gaps. Second, we document differences between people whose family contexts were most highly endowed with economic capital and those who grew up in families that were engaged in cultural fields or the professions. Finally, we highlight how analyses based solely on net worth neglect important ways class origin perpetuates and accelerates wealth inequalities via the acquisition of debt. We argue that recent decades have fostered new instruments for opportunity hoarding that are most successfully used by the sons and daughters of the economic upper class.
When Marriage Gets Hard: Intra-Coalition Conflict and Electoral Accountability
Authors: Plescia Carolina , Kritzinger Sylvia
Published: June 2021

Combining individual-level with event-level data across 25 European countries and three sets of European Election Studies, this study examines the effect of conflict between parties in coalition government on electoral accountability and responsibility attribution. We find that conflict increases punishment for poor economic performance precisely because it helps clarify to voters parties’ actions and responsibilities while in office. The results indicate that under conditions of conflict, the punishment is equal for all coalition partners when they share responsibility for poor economic performance. When there is no conflict within a government, the effect of poor economic evaluations on vote choice is rather low, with slightly more punishment targeted to the prime minister’s party. These findings have important implications for our understanding of electoral accountability and political representation in coalition governments.
Brightness Motivates Healthy Behaviors: The Role of Self-Accountability
Authors: Chan Eugene Y.
Published: June 2021

A growing literature suggests the possibility that brightness (vs. darkness) affects myriad human behaviors and how people think. One stream suggests that brightness increases self-awareness. We extend these findings and formally hypothesize that brightness (vs. darkness) increases self-accountability, thereby motivating people to take actions to meet their self-standards for health, of which most people generally fall short. Three experimental studies were conducted. The results indicate that brightness increases healthier food choices (Study 1) and physical activity intentions (Study 2). Self-accountability mediates the effect (Study 2), while manipulating self-accountability moderates it (Study 3), thereby providing evidence for its likely causal role in explaining the impact of brightness on facilitating healthy behaviors. The findings offer insights into the positive benefits of brightness beyond past findings that it improves mood and psychological well-being. Limitations of the current research as well as future research directions are discussed.
A Qualitative Study on Traumatic Experiences of Suicide Survivors
Authors: Contessa Júlia Camargo , Padoan Carolina Stopinski , Silva Jéssica Leandra Gonçalves da , Magalhães Pedro V. S.
Published: June 2021

The suicide of a loved one can be a traumatic experience. The objective of this study was to investigate trauma-related experiences of suicide survivors. This is a qualitative study with people who had recently lost a family member or a close one to suicide, conducted at least two months after the event. Forty-one participants agreed to take part in the study and were interviewed. The interviewees' perception was that suicide brought harm, symptoms, and suffering. Traumatic experiences can begin immediately after the event, with many reporting symptoms lasting many months and persistent impact, both personal and to the family. Postvention models after suicide should incorporate such findings, and investigate trauma consistently.
Do Polish Nurses Have a Problem with Sleepiness during the Epidemiological Threat of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus?
Authors: Martyn Julia , Grabias Kamil , Chmiel Zdzisława
Published: June 2021

Nurses may experience cumulative sleep deprivation in the current epidemiological situation, which is the COVID-19 disease. Lack of rest leads to decreased concentration. The research topic is important for improving patient safety in hospitals. Assessment and analysis of the level of sleepiness of nurses after 3 consecutive night shifts and its impact on functioning in social life. The study adopted the diagnostic survey method, which was conducted using a survey technique. The questionnaire consisted of 3 parts: personal particulars, the survey and the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) version A. After the research, 164 correctly completed questionnaires were obtained. The level of somnolence in individual measurements after a night shift significantly increased among the nurses examined ( P < .0001). Respondents who felt a higher level of drowsiness after a night shift thought that their work definitely influenced contact with their friends or family and had difficulty in performing household duties. There is no statistically significant relationship between the level of sleepiness and sociodemographic factors. After each night shift, the level of drowsiness in nurses increases. This may result in reduced alertness and attention levels on subsequent working days. Shift work has negative consequences in the form of depleted personal life. Further research into the effects of insufficient sleep among nurses should be conducted. This may be necessary for patient safety in healthcare centers. The awareness on the subject of healthy sleep among shift nurses should be raised. It is advisable to conduct research in order to assess the effectiveness of various therapies in dealing with sleep disorders among shift nurses. The interventions taken should be adapted to the current epidemiological situation, which is the COVID-19 disease.
Examining Public Organization Communication Misalignments During COVID-19 Through the Lens of Higher Education
Authors: Lovell Darrell , Dolamore Stephanie , Collins Haley
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 is forcing alterations to administrative communication. Higher education institutions transitioning online during the pandemic offers a fertile ground to analyze what happens to organizational communication within administration when the mode is primarily remote. Using a content analysis of emails and participant interviews, this work finds that while administrators intend to communicate empathy, messages fall short of fostering connection with faculty due to failing to cultivate buyin through quality feedback channels. The takeaways of this study of remote communication is that despite its mode, communication must be two way, and the authenticity of organizational communication becomes more important under pressure-filled circumstances.
Assessing the impact of the European resilience curriculum in preschool, early and late primary school children
Authors: Simões Celeste , Santos Anabela C. , Lebre Paula , Daniel João R. , Branquinho Cátia , Gaspar Tânia , Matos Margarida G. de
Published: June 2021

Resilience is an individual’s ability to adapt successfully to and persevere during and after significant challenges. Resilience programmes based on a socioemotional learning approach have been associated with an increase in protextive factors (e.g., prosocial competencies), improvements in physical and mental health, and a decrease in internalised and externalised symptoms. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of the RESCUR curriculum implemented in Portuguese schools on students’ academic, behavioural, and socioemotional outcomes, based on child and teacher reports. Participants included 1,084 children (53.2% male) aged 3-15 ( M = 7.24, SD = 2.31). A quasi-experimental study compared outcomes for an experimental intervention group (AIG) with a waiting list control group (WG). The results showed the RESCUR programme decreased mental health difficulties while increasing both prosocial behaviours and well-being. In addition, academic performance increased for those in preschool after implementation. Both teachers and children consistently reported positive behavioural changes in resilience-related competencies after implementing RESCUR. Our findings contribute to the recent research on the potential of RESCUR to address key socioemotional competencies and improve relevant protextive factors. Study limitations and future recommendations are addressed.
“Mistakes are just information”: A case study of a highly successful violin pedagogue
Authors: Blackwell Jennifer
Published: June 2021

This study examined the instructional context, pedagogical techniques, interpersonal dynamics, and personal characteristics of a teacher and her collegiate students in a renowned private violin studio. Through lesson observations, interviews, and analysis of artifacts, the following themes emerged: (1) a nurturing, non-judgmental environment, characterized by “neutral” teacher feedback; (2) clearly defined learning expectations, lesson structure, and work habits that are mutually understood by student and teacher; (3) a clear emphasis on learning to practice effectively in the student’s own time, including “practicing practicing” within the lesson; and (4) explicit instruction on how to teach others. Analysis of the data suggests that this studio might be best understood through Bruner’s conception of a spiral curriculum, as the structure and content of all student lessons were virtually the same regardless of student level, but the complexity of the tasks increases greatly as students progress.
Through the looking glass: A researcher’s perspectives on a collaborative music composition project
Authors: Wendzich Tessandra , Andrews Bernard W.
Published: June 2021

Making Music: Composing with Young Musicians was a multi-year, multi-site research project partnered with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Canadian Music Centre to commission composers to collaborate with teachers and students to write educational music. On-site observations undertaken by the co-author and examined through a pragmatic lens employing Brief Focused Inquiry focused on the contributions of students, teachers and composers to the collaborative music compositions. Students contributed their creativity and knowledge of musical elements and concepts, and they provided feedback to the teachers and composers. Teachers contributed technical, instrumental feedback to the composers and their understanding of musical elements and concepts. Furthermore, they led band rehearsals and played musical instruments with the students. Composers contributed their musical creativity and feedback while undertaking a teacher-like role. The composers, teachers and students also used technology during this creative endeavor. The findings will be of potential interest to post-secondary music educators, composers, music teachers, and music publishers.
The potential role of an activity-based guitar program on the anxiety and fulfillment levels of younger relatives of cancer patients: A pilot study
Authors: Sülün Erkan , Olgaçer Hüseyin , Eren Hakkı Cengiz
Published: June 2021

In this study, the authors evaluated the potential role of an activity-based guitar training program on reducing anxiety and providing fulfillment for younger relatives of cancer patients. Ten active members of KHYD (The Society for Relatives of Cancer Patients), between ages 11 and 17 participated in an 8-week guitar education program. The participants filled out two questionnaires before and after their engagement in the 8-week program, one to measure changes in their anxiety levels (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) and the other to measure changes in their general fulfillment levels (Multidimensional Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale). Wilcoxon signed rank test, as well as descriptive statistics were used in the analysis of data. Mean rank differences were observed to be statistically significant with respect to total state and trait anxiety scores; in both cases, the participants’ scores decreased after their engagement in the program. Statistically significant mean rank differences were also observed in the overall MSLSS scores and its “friends” and “environment” sub-dimensions; with respect to these, participants’ scores increased after their engagement in the program. Recommendations for more comprehensive, larger-scale studies are given at the end.
The sustainability of multicultural music education in Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Du Junge , Leung Bo-Wah
Published: June 2021

Sustainability has been incorporating multiculturalism in music education (MME) for decades, but the dialogs of MME in China has always focused on school education, neglecting community-based music education. The cultural-political context of this study is in Xijiang, southwest China, where is a Miao-dominated community integrating Miao, Han and other ethnic cultures. This study employed a mixed-method approach with a convergent parallel design that combined a survey with qualitative methods including casual conversation, semi-structured interview, and documentary analysis. Findings revealed that despite the promotion and inheritance of Miao’s music are highly valued, and the interest of minority ethnic communities in engaging in music learning and performance remains considerable, the sustainability of multicultural music education in Xijiang is in question. Problems are attributed to inadequate and unequal educational resources, devaluation of state institutes, shortage of teachers, and high illiterate rate. This article contributes to theorizing on sustainability in multicultural music education within a multicultural background in southwest China, by identifying the stakeholders in the education system and drawing on the empirical evidence on the truly needs of communities. The implications of the study include improvements in the development of multicultural music education.
Role of Communication, Influence, and Satisfaction in Patient Recommendations of a Physician
Authors: Mehra Payal , Mishra Anubhav
Published: June 2021

As per the India Brand Equity Foundation, by 2022, India’s healthcare market is expected to reach US$372 billion. While exponential growth in the availability of private hospitals has been recorded in the past few years, many hospitals are not able to attract enough patients due to poor quality of services, unavailability of skilled healthcare workers, and unethical medical practices. These issues were painfully exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients rely on recommendations from friends and relatives to select a physician or hospital. This study undertakes a customer-oriented view of patients to explore patients’ perceptions of physicians’ communication and how it influences the recommendation of a physician. For the study, data are collected from 626 patients spread across three cities of North India. We find that physician communication leads to favourable recommendations, and the patient’s perceived influence and satisfaction play an important role in this process. The physician should display empathy and compassion while communicating to patients, which helps build a favourable perception of the physician. This leads to a higher level of satisfaction with the healthcare provider. Furthermore, the study also examines the effects of socio-demographic variables, such as patient’s income, patient’s gender, and physician’s gender. People with high (vs low) income are more satisfied with physician communication, whereas people with low (vs high) income are more likely to recommend a physician. Interestingly, female patients are more satisfied with a physician’s communication skills than males. Aligned with the patriarchal society, patients show more acceptance of male (vs female) doctors, but in contrast, patients are more likely to recommend a female (vs male) doctor. So, we recommend that healthcare providers ensure that patients get sufficient time to spend with their physicians to discuss problems and not ‘rush’ the patients to improve revenues.
Relationship Between Achievement Motivation, Mental Health and Academic Success in University Students
Authors: Mahdavi Parinaz , Valibeygi Adib , Moradi Masoud , Sadeghi Shahram
Published: June 2021

Students of medical sciences are under intense mental stress induced by medical training system and are more likely to develop psychological and mental disorders. These psychological disorders may influence their performance in different aspects of life including their study. The aim of the present study is to assess the possible relationships between mental health, achievement motivation, and academic achievement and to study the effect of background factors on mentioned variables. The sample group consists of students of Kurdistan University of medical sciences. 430 students at Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences were selected randomly to participate in the present cross-sectional study in 2016. We used General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and Achievement motivation test (AMT) as the measures of our study. Our findings indicated that mental health is significantly correlated with achievement motivation ( p < .001), but has no correlation with educational success ( p = .37). Also, a significant relationship was observed between achievement motivation and academic achievement ( p = .025). GHQ was not correlated with demographic factors, while academic achievement and achievement motivation are associated with the field of study and marital status respectively. Conclusively, students who are more motivated to achieve their educational and academic goals, will be more likely to be successful in their education and have stronger academic performance. Also, students with more appropriate mental health status will have higher level of motivation in their education and studies. These findings reflect the importance of maintaining the medical field students’ motivation and its role in their academic success.
Imaging features of lipoma arborescens
Authors: Huang Yonghua , Liu Hao , Wang Yong , Chu Xiangle , Liu Haiyan , Wang Hexiang
Published: June 2021

Background

Lipoma arborescens is characterized by the villous proliferation of the synovium and diffuse hyperplasia of fatty tissue in the subsynovial layer, almost always with a periarticular lesion. According to past articles, fewer cases have depicted the imaging features of lipoma arborescens.

Purpose

To evaluate the computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of lipoma arborescens.

Material and Methods

The imaging features of 15 patients with pathologically proven lipoma arborescens were retrospectively analyzed including lesion number, shape, location, size, margins, attenuation on CT, and signal intensity and enhancement patterns on MR images.

Results

All cases (n=15) showed joint or bursa effusion. The primary lesion attached to the bursa wall adjacent to the bone in 13 cases and to the lateral wall in two cases. CT shows a mass with fatty tissue attenuation values in the suprapatellar pouch (n=3) or subdeltoid bursa with an erosion of the humeral head (n=2), among them two cases showed branched slightly high density in the center of the fat density tissue. Fifteen cases on routine MRI display mass-like subsynovial mass with fatty tissue signal on all of the sequences and suppression of the signal on fat-suppression sequences. Among them, five lesions showed branched slightly low T1-weighted imaging, high proton density-weighted imaging, and T2-weighted imaging signals in the center. It showed the enhancement of the linear surface and the bursa wall in contrast-enhanced MRI (n=3).

Conclusion

Lipoma arborescens have specific CT and MRI features that enable them to make a conclusive diagnosis of this rare condition, which helps the diagnosis before treatment.
Multimodal functional imaging for early response assessment in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Revheim Mona-Elisabeth , Hole Knut Håkon , Mo Torgeir , Bruland Øyvind S , Reitan Edmund , Julsrud Lars , Seierstad Therese
Published: June 2021

Background

Several imaging modalities are used in the early work-up of patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment and there is a need to establish whether they provide similar or complimentary information.

Purpose

To compare 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as early predictors of three-month outcomes for patients with GIST receiving TKI treatment.

Material and Methods

Thirty-five patients with advanced GIST were prospectively included between February 2011 and June 2017. FDG PET, contrast-enhanced CT (CECT), and MRI were performed before and early after onset of TKI treatment (range 8–18 days). Early response was categorized according to mRECIST (CT), the Choi criteria (CECT), and PERCIST (FDG PET/CT). For MRI, volumetry from T2-weighted images and change in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) from diffusion-weighted imaging was used. The reference standard for early assessment was the three-month mRECIST evaluation based on CT. At three months, both stable disease (SD) and partial response (PR) were categorized as response. Clinical usefulness was defined as agreement between early and three-month assessment.

Results

At the three-month assessment, 91% (32/35) were responders, 37% (13/35) PR, 54% (19/35) SD, and 9% (3/35) had progressive disease (PD). Early assessment correctly predicted three-month response in 93% (27/29) for MRI, 80% (28/35) for PERCIST, 74% (26/35) for Choi, and 23% (8/35) for mRECIST. Six patients had non-FDG-avid tumors. For the FDG-avid tumors, PET/CT correctly predicted three-month response in 97% (28/29).

Conclusion

MRI was superior to CECT for early assessment of TKI-treatment response in GIST. If the tumor was FDG-avid, PET and MRI were equally good. Changes in functional parameters were superior to changes in longest tumor diameter (mRECIST).
Upper and lower adjacent segment range of motion after fixation of different lumbar spine segments in the goat: an in vitro experiment
Authors: Ou Yufu , Xiao Zengming , Wei Jianxun , Jiang Hua , Li Zhuhai
Published: June 2021

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine the biomechanical effects of fixation on range of motion (ROM) in the upper and lower adjacent segments of different lumbar spine segments in a goat spine model.

Methods

Fifteen goat spine specimens (vertebrae T12–S1) were randomly divided into three groups: A (single-segment fixation), B (double-segment fixation), and C (triple-segment fixation). Motion in different directions was tested using a spinal motion simulation test system with five external loading forces. Transverse, forward–backward, and vertical displacement of the upper and lower adjacent segments were measured.

Results

As the external load increased, the upper and lower adjacent segment ROM increased. A significantly greater ROM in group C compared with group A was found when the applied external force was greater than 75 N. The upper adjacent segment showed a significantly greater ROM than the lower adjacent segment ROM within each group.

Conclusions

Adjacent segment ROM increased with an increasing number of fixed lumbar segments. The upper adjacent segment ROM was greater than that of the lower adjacent segments. Adjacent segment stability after lumbar internal fixation worsened with an increasing number of fixed segments.
Exploring the ideal practice for occupational therapists on assertive community treatment teams
Authors: Lama Tenzin C , Fu Yumeng , Davis Jane A
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Canadian occupational therapists are employed as case managers on assertive community treatment (ACT) teams to support community living for individuals with severe and persistent mental illnesses. In this position, occupational therapists act primarily as generalists, typically attending appointments with clients, supervising medication adherence, supporting basic living needs, and managing client crises. Occupational therapists may also provide psychotherapy and coping skill groups, as well as profession-specific practices, such as skills training. Exploring how ACT occupational therapists describe their perceived ideal practice may support transformation in long-standing, occupational therapy practices on ACT teams.

Method

This qualitative, interpretive description study involved 11 Canadian ACT team occupational therapists in one individual, semi-structured in-depth interview using an interview guide containing open-ended questions. Interview transcripts were analyzed to identify themes pertaining to therapists’ descriptions of their perceived ideal occupational therapy practice on ACT teams.

Results

Three themes emerged: (a) Engaging in practice “with intention”; (b) Finding the space for occupational therapy practice; and (c) Supporting clients in their recovery to find their best occupational self.

Conclusions

The findings highlight practice possibilities for occupational therapist working on ACT teams and provide a foundation for advocating for better use of specific occupational therapy practices within community mental health settings.
Investigating the influence of the core material on the mechanical performance of a nitinol wire wrapped helical auxetic yarn
Authors: Faisal Nadimul Haque , Fowlie Andrew , Connell Joe , Mackenzie Sean , Noble Ryan , Prathuru Anil Kumar
Published: June 2021

Helical Auxetic Yarns (HAYs) can be used in a variety of applications from healthcare to blast and impact resistance. This work focuses on the effect of the use of different core materials (e.g. rubber, polyurethane, polytetrafluoroethylene/teflon, polypropylene, polyetheretherketone, polycarbonate, acetal) with a nitinol wire wrap component on the maximum Negative Poisson Ratio (NPR) produced and thus the auxetic performance of Helical Auxetic Yarns (HAYs). From the analytical model, it was found that an acetal core produced the largest NPR when compared to the other six materials. The trend obtained from the experimental tensile tests (validation) correlated closely with the theoretical predictions of the NPR as axial strain was increased. The experimental method presented a maximum NPR at an average axial strain of 0.148 which was close to the strain of 0.155 predicted by theory. However, the maximum experimental NPR was significantly lower than that predicted by the analytical model.
Evaluating a Computerized Adaptive Testing Version of a Cognitive Ability Test Using a Simulation Study
Authors: Tsaousis Ioannis , Sideridis Georgios D. , AlGhamdi Hannan M.
Published: June 2021

This study evaluated the psychometric quality of a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) version of the general cognitive ability test (GCAT), using a simulation study protocol put forth by Han, K. T. (2018a). For the needs of the analysis, three different sets of items were generated, providing an item pool of 165 items. Before evaluating the efficiency of the GCAT, all items in the final item pool were linked (equated), following a sequential approach. Data were generated using a standard normal for 10,000 virtual individuals ( M = 0 and SD = 1). Using the measure’s 165-item bank, the ability value (θ) for each participant was estimated. maximum Fisher information (MFI) and maximum likelihood estimation with fences (MLEF) were used as item selection and score estimation methods, respectively. For item exposure control, the fade away method (FAM) was preferred. The termination criterion involved a minimum SE ≤ 0.33. The study revealed that the average number of items administered for 10,000 participants was 15. Moreover, the precision level in estimating the participant’s ability score was very high, as demonstrated by the CBIAS, CMAE, and CRMSE). It is concluded that the CAT version of the test is a promising alternative to administering the corresponding full-length measure since it reduces the number of administered items, prevents high rates of item exposure, and provides accurate scores with minimum measurement error.
Perceived Barriers to HIV Care and Viral Suppression Comparing Newly Diagnosed Women Living with HIV in Rural Uganda with and without a History of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Ogbonnaya Ijeoma Nwabuzor , Reed Elizabeth , Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Wagman Jennifer A. , Silverman Jay G. , Kiene Susan M.
Published: June 2021

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with poor HIV care linkage and retention, medication adherence, and viral suppression. However, limited knowledge exists regarding potential mechanisms linking IPV to these outcomes. We aimed to (a) identify the top barriers to accessing HIV care experienced by women living with HIV (WLHIV) who report a history of IPV and have suppressed viral load (VL) versus unsuppressed VL and (b) understand how these barriers influence VL, comparing WLHIV with a history of IPV to WLHIV without a history of IPV. Study data come from newly diagnosed WLHIV in rural Uganda participating in the standard-of-care control arm of a randomized trial ( n = 152). Descriptive results ranking mean scores from highest to lowest showed that, among women with a history of IPV, irrespective of viral suppression status, paying for transportation to come to clinic, having to wait at the clinic for long periods of time, and finding a clinic within reasonable travel distance were the top three barriers to accessing HIV care. WLHIV with a history of IPV were significantly more likely to have unsuppressed VL versus suppressed VL if they reported higher levels of difficulty finding a clinic within reasonable travel distance (RRR = 1.7, 95% CI [1.1–2.7]), getting permission to take time off from work (RRR = 1.5, 95% CI [1.0–2.9]), and finding time to come to the clinic for an appointment (RRR = 1.6, 95% CI [1.0–2.6]). The same relationships were not present among WLHIV without a history of IPV, suggesting these barriers and their effect on VL may be uniquely related to IPV. Interventions should address IPV and HIV care continuum outcomes in tandem, targeting barriers to accessing HIV care likely associated with IPV. Additional research is necessary to better understand how IPV relates to HIV care barriers and VL.
Paleoenvironmental analysis of wet meadow in the Deseado Massif: Implications for the Holocene occupation of Argentinian Patagonia
Authors: Mosquera Bruno , Mancini María V
Published: June 2021

Paleoenvironmental data from wet-meadow environments in the arid-semiarid region of Patagonia are still incipient and the paleoenvironmental records came from pollen sequences of caves and rockshelters. The main reasons to study wetland records are their undisturbed (by humans) sedimentologic continuity, in contrast to deposits in rock shelters and caves; and their regional presentation of environmental changes that can be compared to archeological data. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the past hydrological dynamic of a wet-meadow from Deseado Massif and its relationship with the human occupation. For this purpose, we present the results of the sediment and pollen analysis of Mallín La Primavera wet-meadow that provide a sequence starting in the mid-Holocene. The results indicate a lower water table in the mallín prior to 6900 cal yr BP. Sediment analysis indicates low energy sedimentation environment with flood events and very low energy streams. Human occupational data show chronological discontinuities in mid-Holocene in several regions of Patagonia and the southern cone. In the studied region, two chronological hiatuses (7828–6434 cal yr BP and 3005–2710 cal yr BP) where recognized that appear to correlate with shrub steppes, indicating dry conditions. These conditions may explain the lack of archeological radiocarbon dates in the area during this period. The integration of sediment and pollen results from the Deseado Massif indicates dry and windy conditions for the middle Holocene. The lack of archeological radiocarbon dates would have been influenced by the loss of moisture in water sources such as springs and their associated wet meadows ( mallines).
Organic geochemical and palaeobotanical reconstruction of a late-Holocene archaeological settlement in coastal eastern India
Authors: Kumar Das Supriyo , Gangopadhyay Kaushik , Ghosh Ahana , Biswas Oindrila , Bera Subir , Ghosh Puja , Paruya Dipak Kumar , Naskar Nabanita , Mani Devleena , MS Kalpana , Yoshida Kohki
Published: June 2021

Integration of palaeobotanical (spores, pollen, phytoliths and non-pollen palynomorphs) and organic geochemical proxies, such as stable isotopes of organic carbon (δ13C) and n-alkanes, for studying the evolution and palaeoenvironmental conditions of an archaeological site are rare in India. The evolution of a protohistoric-historic site at Erenda, situated in the eastern coastal region of India, has been studied by using multiple palaeobotanical and organic geochemical proxies assisted with AMS radiocarbon dates. The excavated site lies above Late Pleistocene–Early Holocene Sijua Formation. The absence of anthropogenic evidence in the Sijua Formation likely indicates inhabitable conditions in nearshore/estuarine marshy conditions. The earliest human settlements at the excavation site begin during the first millennium BCE after the initiation of habitable conditions along the coast. The presence of fungal spores and the dominance of C4 phytolith morphotypes indicate prevailing warm and humid climatic conditions and proximity to a freshwater body. The δ13C signature and n-alkane composition indicate the use of C4 grass for the construction of the mud and clay-built huts. The settlers most likely used to consume wild or domestic variety of rice, as evidenced by the presence of bilobate scooped morphotypes. The site was partly abandoned, covered with C3 and C4 vegetation and used as a dumping ground after 663 ± 92 BCE. This implies that people continued to live in the area but possibly moved to a nearby site while using the excavated site as refuse.