bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New records of forty-nine herbaceous plant species from lateritic plateaus for Ratnagiri District of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Borude D.B. , Bhalekar P.P. , Pansare A.S. , Gosavi K.V.C. , Chandore A.N.
Published: March 2024

Ratnagiri is a coastal district and a part of Konkan region of Maharashtra. During our floristic studies on ephemeral and herbaceous plants of lateritic plateaus of Ratnagiri district from year 2020 to 2022, we have collected 49 herbaceous and ephemeral flowering plant species new addition to the Ratnagiri district. Newly added above said plant species belonging to 19 families and among them 16 species are endemic to India. This paper provides detailed checklist with herbarium specimen numbers for all the collected species and photographs of 16 endemic species.
First report of moth species of the family Tineidae (Lepidoptera) in regurgitated pellets of harriers in India
Authors: S. Thalavaipandi  , Arjun Kannan  , M.B. Prashanth  , T. Ganesh
Published: March 2024

Caterpillars of Tineidae moths mainly feed on keratin sources and require moisture and warm temperature for emergence. The presence of Tineidae moth caterpillars, pupae, and adults in regurgitated pellets of harriers, diurnal migratory raptors wintering in India, suggests a potential dietary association and highlights the importance of considering associated organisms in raptor diet estimation studies. The caterpillars preferred rodent hairs present in the pellets over feather and arthropod remains. This is the first record of Tineidae moths on the pellets of harriers.
First report of Macrochaetus sericus Thorpe, 1893 and Lecane tenuiseta Harring, 1914 (Rotifera: Monogononta) from Jammu waters (J&K), India
Authors: Slathia Deepanjali , Supreet Kour  , Sarbjeet Kour
Published: March 2024

Water bodies, apart from having aesthetic value, harbor a great diversity of both macro and microorganisms. Rotifers or wheel animalcules are cosmopolitan aquatic invertebrates that play a key role in aquatic food chain. Presently, two species of rotifers (Macrochaetus sericus & Lecane tenuiseta) have been recorded for the first time from Jammu. M. sericus is first record from Union territory of J&K while L. tenuiseta has already been reported from Kashmir. During the one year study period, M. sericus was observed in the plankton sample during the monsoon season while L. tenuiseta was collected from the periphytic zone during the winter season. M. sericus differed from related congeneric species by absence of anal segment and anal spines. L. tenuiseta is distinguished by its long separated claws and long toes. The first report of these two species from Jammu has further expanded their distributional ranges in the Indian subcontinent.
Records of three gobioid fishes (Actinopterygii: Gobiiformes: Gobiidae) from the Gujarat coast, India
Authors: Vadher Piyush , Kardani Hitesh , Bambhaniya Prakash , Beleem Imtiyaz
Published: March 2024

We report for the first time three gobioid fishes: Amblygobius semicinctus (Bennett, 1833), Istigobius diadema (Steindachner, 1876), and Yongeichthys nebulosus (Forskål, 1775) from the Gujarat coast of India. We present short descriptions with species diagnostic characters, habitat and present distributions.
D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary, a significant flyway and a preferred stopover (refuelling) site during the return migration of the Amur Falcon Falco amurensis (Radde, 1863)
Authors: Tamir Tapak , Kimsing Abprez Thungwon , Mize Daniel
Published: March 2024

This communication reports the repeated sighting records of the Amur Falcon Falco amurensis with photographic evidence in the D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary (DEMWS) of Arunachal Pradesh during the summer. Though there are many sighting reports of the Amur Falcon from many places in India, all are onward journeys (October and November). Hence, not only the repeated sighting of the Amur Falcon but also its sighting during the month of May in DEMWS is the record of its kind. This is significant information for ornithologists, as the recent sighting in the sanctuary is the second record of this raptor during the summer in the state, which also demonstrated that DEMWS is a significant flyway and a preferred stopover or refuelling site during the return migration of this raptor towards their breeding grounds.
New plant records for the flora of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Khulaidi Abdul Wali , Alzahrani Ali M. , Al-Namazi Ali , Al-Faify Eisa Ali , Alfaifi Mohammed Musa , Al‑Sagheer Nageeb A. , Al-Gifri Abdul Nasser
Published: March 2024

Our goal was to find and record new plants that had not previously been recorded for the flora of Arabian Peninsula, particularly for Saudi Arabia. Collections were made in several ecologically important areas of Saudi Arabia, particularly in Faifa region. It was revealed that eight new vascular plant species and one liverwort (Bryophyte) belonging to eight families were recorded for the first time. The investigation was done between January 2021 and May 2022.
Capturing the enchanting glow: first-ever photographs of bioluminescent mushroom Mycena chlorophos in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: D. Jude  , Sadhasivan Vinod , M. Ilayaraja  , R. Amirtha Balan
Published: March 2024

Mushrooms, classified within the class Agaricomycetes in the fungal kingdom, are often colloquially referred to as toadstools. The bioluminescence exhibited by fungi has captivated human curiosity for an extensive period, arising from a chemical reaction involving the interaction of the enzyme luciferin. In India , research pertaining to bioluminescent fungi remains notably limited. This study reports a novel distribution record of Mycena chlorophos in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India.
Curating the Republic: The Origins of the US Embassy
Authors: Ponti Katrina
Published: March 2024

What can the historical study of early American legations in Europe tell us about how the United States approaches its embassies in the world today? Embassy buildings today represent over two hundred years of American trial and error in constantly shifting foreign political environments. They are, by their nature, intended to straddle multiple modalities: public and private; political and personal; global and local. It was because of their deliberately fluid representational states that the first American diplomatic missions to Europe could attempt to bridge the paradigm of aristocratic and democratic approaches to embassy curation abroad. As the first modern post-colonial democracy, the diplomatic agents of the US experimented with the placement, decoration and occupation of their ministerial spaces. In doing so, they innovated strategies of fluidity still seen in American embassies today.
Reassignment of a junior synonym of Lepisosteus oculatus Winchell 1864 to L. platostomus Rafinesque 1820
Authors: SINOPOLI DANIEL , NEAR THOMAS J. , DAVID SOLOMON R. , CHAKRABARTY PROSANTA
Published: March 2024

N/A
On the taxonomic status of the Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus [collybita] tristis (Phylloscopidae)
Authors: DONIOL-VALCROZE PAUL
Published: March 2024

N/A
On some new and little-known Palaearctic species of the genus Leptochilus de Saussure, 1853 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae)
Authors: FATERYGA ALEXANDER V.
Published: March 2024

Two new species are described: Leptochilus (Euleptochilus) barkalovi Fateryga, sp. nov. from Turkmenistan and L. (Lionotulus) puzanovi Fateryga, sp. nov. from Dagestan Republic, Russia. Leptochilus barkalovi is closely related to L. (E.) limbiferus (Morawitz, 1867) from which differs, in the male sex, by narrower clypeus, blunter angles of pronotum, longer pilosity on head and mesosoma, and light-colored apical lamella of tergum 2, as well as a different structure of flagellomere 11 and aedeagus. Leptochilus puzanovi is apparently related to L. (Lionotulus) tarsatus (de Saussure, 1855) from which differs, in the female sex, by broader head, deeper emarginate apical margin of clypeus, broader mesosoma, and dark brown apical lamella of tergum 2. The hitherto unknown males of L. (Lionotulus) incertus (Kostylev, 1940) and L. (L.) leleji Fateryga, 2019 are described; the females are re-described. For the first time, L. incertus is reported from Mongolia and L. leleji from Tyva Republic, Russia. Leptochilus (Lionotulus) nacrocephalus (Kostylev, 1940), stat. nov. is raised to a full species, re-described, and reported for the first time from Armenia.
Classifying Microwave Radiometer Observations over the Netherlands into Dry, Shallow, and Nonshallow Precipitation Using a Random Forest Model
Authors: Bogerd Linda , Kidd Chris , Kummerow Christian , Leijnse Hidde , Overeem Aart , Petkovic Veljko , Whan Kirien , Uijlenhoet Remko
Published: March 2024

Spaceborne microwave radiometers represent an important component of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission due to their frequent sampling of rain systems. Microwave radiometers measure microwave radiation (brightness temperatures Tb), which can be converted into precipitation estimates with appropriate assumptions. However, detecting shallow precipitation systems using spaceborne radiometers is challenging, especially over land, as their weak signals are hard to differentiate from those associated with dry conditions. This study uses a random forest (RF) model to classify microwave radiometer observations as dry, shallow, or nonshallow over the Netherlands—a region with varying surface conditions and frequent occurrence of shallow precipitation. The RF model is trained on five years of data (2016–20) and tested with two independent years (2015 and 2021). The observations are classified using ground-based weather radar echo top heights. Various RF models are assessed, such as using only GPM Microwave Imager (GMI) Tb values as input features or including spatially aligned ERA5 2-m temperature and freezing level reanalysis and/or Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) observations. Independent of the input features, the model performs best in summer and worst in winter. The model classifies observations from high-frequency channels (≥85 GHz) with lower Tb values as nonshallow, higher values as dry, and those in between as shallow. Misclassified footprints exhibit radiometric characteristics corresponding to their assigned class. Case studies reveal dry observations misclassified as shallow are associated with lower Tb values, likely resulting from the presence of ice particles in nonprecipitating clouds. Shallow footprints misclassified as dry are likely related to the absence of ice particles.

Significance Statement

Published research concerning rainfall retrieval algorithms from microwave radiometers is often focused on the accuracy of these algorithms. While shallow precipitation over land is often characterized as problematic in these studies, little progress has been made with these systems. In particular, precipitation formed by shallow clouds, where shallow refers to the clouds being close to Earth’s surface, is often missed. This study is focused on detecting shallow precipitation and its physical characteristics to further improve its detection from spaceborne sensors. As such, it contributes to understanding which shallow precipitation scenes are challenging to detect from microwave radiometers, suggesting possible ways for algorithm improvement.
Phosphorus Modulated Peroxidase-Like Activity of Carbon Dots for Colorimetric Detection of Acid Phosphatase
Authors: Zhang Yongmei , Liang Haibo , Wang Xinru , Yu Ying , Cao Yujuan , Guo Manli , Lin Bixia
Published: March 2024

The precise regulation of nanoenzyme activity is of great significance for application to biosensing analysis. Herein, the peroxidase-like activity of carbon dots was effectively modulated by doping phosphorus, which was successfully employed for sensitive, selective detection of acid phosphatase (ACP). Phosphorus-doped carbon dots (P-CDs) with excellent peroxidase-like activity were synthesized by a one-pot hydrothermal method, and the catalytic activity could be easily modulated by controlling the additional amount of precursor phytic acid. P-CDs could effectively catalyze the oxidation of colorless 3,3’,5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to blue TMB oxidation products in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. While ACP was able to catalyze the hydrolysis of L-ascorbyl-2-phosphate trisodium salt (AAP) to produce ascorbic acid (AA), which inhibited the peroxidase-like activity of P-CDs, by combining P-CDs nanoenzymes and ACP-catalyzed hydrolysis the colorimetric method was established for ACP detection. The absorbance variation showed a good linear relationship with ACP concentration in the range of 0.4–4.0 mU/mL with a limit of detection at 0.12 mU/mL. In addition, the method was successfully applied to detect ACP in human serum samples with recoveries in the range of 98.7–101.6%. The work provides an effective strategy for regulating nanoenzymes activity and a low-cost detection technique for ACP.
Taking a LEAP toward community-engaged leadership
Authors: Stanley Darrius A. , Brogan Dan , Colton Emily
Published: March 2024

Historical and contemporary factors have disenfranchised and destabilized certain school communities (specifically communities of color). Education leaders can be more inclusive and address the persistent impacts of these broader trends by embracing a community-focused approach to leadership. Darrius A. Stanley, Dan Brogan, and Emily Colton borrow from contemporary research which suggests that educational leaders can help bridge the gaps between schools and historically disenfranchised communities through community-engaged leadership. They offer a research-based, conceptual argument and practical approach to building and sustaining community inclusive schools through listening, engaging, advocating, and partnering.
Mini-observations 2.0
Authors: Marshall Kim
Published: March 2024

Traditional teacher evaluations – full-lesson observations, write-ups, and debriefs — are time-consuming and largely ineffective. As a principal, Kim Marshall found that mini-observations — short, frequent, unannounced classroom visits, each followed by a face-to-face coaching conversation and brief narrative summary — actually improved teaching and learning. With the benefit of hindsight, he shares ways mini-observations could be even more effective and shares some common observation practices he believes leaders should rethink.
Learning with Leaders: Excellence for all students, districtwide: Luvelle Brown
Authors: Lane James F.
Published: March 2024

Luvelle Brown, superintendent of the Ithaca City School District in New York, talks with James F. Lane about his work on leadership, equity, and transforming instruction. As an educator, he’s committed to promoting excellence for students who have been denied opportunities. As a district leader, he’s sought to bring greater diversity to leadership. He encourages educators to find joy in their mission and commit to doing the work.
Does Citizen Sector-based Preference Relate to Citizen Satisfaction with Public Service Organizations?
Authors: Lee Jae Bok
Published: March 2024

Scholarly attention has predominantly focused on citizens’ evaluations of public service organizations that deliver government-funded services, particularly in single-sector public service provision. As a result, we have limited understanding of how multisectoral provision operates from a citizens’ perspective. Against this backdrop, this study explores how citizens disparately evaluate their providers, which varies according to their preferred sector in multisectoral public service provision. Using a nationwide observational survey on Korean public childcare, where citizens’ sector-based preferences have long been recognized, the findings reveal that parents’ evaluations of providers were contingent on their preferred sector types. The evidence contributes to a more nuanced understanding of citizens’ evaluations of services in multisectoral public service provision.
Transitional Frictions: Intimate Ties, Grassroots Bureaucracy, and Family Reunion in Post-Mao China, 1975–1985
Authors: Huang Yanjie
Published: March 2024

During the Cultural Revolution, millions of youths, workers, intellectuals, and cadres were separated from their families and mobilized to work in distant places according to the needs of the state. For these families, the transition to the post-Mao era was experienced not as an epochal change but as a family reunion often delayed by specific institutional constraints. The constant friction between families’ strategies to reunite and the bureaucratic logic specific to local contexts led to a sense of victimhood and a turn to domestic life and hope in children as the new sacred in life. By examining the processes of family reunion told in three sets of family letters, this article explores “transitional frictions,” defined as the conflicts and tensions arising from different speeds of institutional change during a rapid transition, as a ubiquitous phenomenon in the post-Mao transition.
Difference in the Mechanism of Iron Overload–Enhanced Acute Hepatotoxicity Induced by Thioacetamide and Carbon Tetrachloride in Rats
Authors: Inai Yohei , Izawa Takeshi , Kamei Tomomi , Fujiwara Sho , Tanaka Miyuu , Yamate Jyoji , Kuwamura Mitsuru
Published: March 2024

Iron overload has been recognized as a risk factor for liver disease; however, little is known about its pathological role in the modification of liver injury. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of iron overload on liver injury induced by two hepatotoxicants with different pathogenesis in rats. Rats were fed a control (Cont), 0.8% high-iron (0.8% Fe), or 1% high-iron diet (1% Fe) for 4 weeks and were then administered with saline, thioacetamide (TAA), or carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Hepatic and systemic iron overload were seen in the 0.8% and 1% Fe groups. Twenty-four hours after administration, hepatocellular necrosis induced by TAA and hepatocellular necrosis, degeneration, and vacuolation induced by CCl4, as well as serum transaminase values, were exacerbated in the 0.8% and 1% Fe groups compared to the Cont group. On the other hand, microvesicular vacuolation induced by CCl4 was decreased in 0.8% and 1% Fe groups. Hepatocellular DNA damage was increased by iron overload in both models, whereas a synergistic effect of oxidative stress by excess iron and hepatotoxicant was only present in the CCl4 model. The data showed that dietary iron overload exacerbates TAA- and CCl4-induced acute liver injury with different mechanisms.
Please Excuse My Accent: An Examination of Impression Management Strategies Used by Nonnative Speakers
Authors: Roberson Loriann , Kim Regina , Russo Marcello , Briganti Paola
Published: March 2024

In this research, we investigate the impression management (IM) strategies used by nonnative speakers. We ask the following questions: (1) What IM strategies do nonnative speakers employ, (2) Are some IM strategies more effective than others, and (3) What determines the use of different IN strategies among nonnative speakers? Across two studies, we examine if some IM strategies are more effective than others in improving outcomes for nonnative speakers. Results from both studies revealed negative effects associated with the use of defensive strategies, and results from Study 2 demonstrated benefits associated with assertive strategies (i.e., self-promotion and flattery).
In conversation: An inside perspective of youth justice practice and experience
Authors: Brierley Andi , Myles Kierra
Published: March 2024

This reflective, dialogue between two youth justice professionals who have lived experience of being incarcerated children aims to provide an insight into their unique transition. Although living in very different parts of Britain, they discuss and reflect upon similarities in terms of strengths and challenges that come with being formerly incarcerated youth justice practitioners. Both authors share their insights of youth justice developments, their perspectives of participatory practice and how experiential knowing can impact relationship building with justice involved children.
Enhancing predictions with a stacking ensemble model for ICU mortality risk in patients with sepsis-associated encephalopathy
Authors: Liu Xuhui , Niu Hao , Peng Jiahua
Published: March 2024

Objective

We identified predictive factors and developed a novel machine learning (ML) model for predicting mortality risk in patients with sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE).

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) and eICU Collaborative Research Database were used for model development and external validation. The primary outcome was the in-hospital mortality rate among patients with SAE; the observed in-hospital mortality rate was 14.74% (MIMIC IV: 1112, eICU: 594). Using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), we built nine ML models and a stacking ensemble model and determined the optimal model based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). We used the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) algorithm to determine the optimal model.

Results

The study included 9943 patients. LASSO identified 15 variables. The stacking ensemble model achieved the highest AUC on the test set (0.807) and 0.671 on external validation. SHAP analysis highlighted Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and age as key variables. The model ( https://sic1.shinyapps.io/SSAAEE/ ) can predict in-hospital mortality risk for patients with SAE.

Conclusions

We developed a stacked ensemble model with enhanced generalization capabilities using novel data to predict mortality risk in patients with SAE.
Access to Healthcare Among Young Adult Probationers Participating in a Pilot Health-Focused Reentry Program
Authors: Ojeda Victoria D. , Parker Tamara , Lyles Maurice , Edwards Todd M. , Jimenez Cielo , Hiller-Venegas Sarah , Berliant Emily , Lister Zephon
Published: March 2024

Justice-involved adults experience disparities in healthcare access. This pilot study examines healthcare access among young adult probationers ( n = 66) receiving 6-months of Service Navigation and Health Coaching support implemented between 2017 and 2021. Data are from baseline, 6-month follow-up and satisfaction surveys. Between baseline and follow-up, the proportion of insured young adult participants (66%–88%; p < .001) and those using healthcare services (36%–71%; p < .001) increased significantly; report of unmet physical healthcare needs decreased significantly (44%–26%; p = .003). Satisfaction data revealed increased self-efficacy, motivation, focus, and improved organizational, goal setting, and communication skills. The program improved healthcare access by increasing health insurance and recent use of healthcare services. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess maintenance of these outcomes and potential impacts on disparities in health status and access to care indicators. Integrating navigation and coaching supports to advance the well-being of justice-involved young adults is a promising mechanism to facilitate healthcare access.
Muscae volitantes: A 19th-century precursor of visual snow syndrome?
Authors: Weatherall Mark W.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Visual snow syndrome comprises a whole-field static-like visual disturbance, with increased awareness of entopic phenomena, an inability to suppress the ‘just seen’ and photophobia. Visual snow syndrome is often associated with other problems such as headache, tinnitus, and anxiety. The earliest reported case of a patient experiencing symptoms consistent with visual snow syndrome dates only to 1995. This paper seeks to find patterns of experience in the medical literature of the past that are reminiscent of visual snow syndrome, to challenge the view that it is in any sense a novel disorder. Descriptions of subjective visual sensations such as experienced by patients suffering from visual snow syndrome were sought in treatises, textbooks and other literature generated by leading figures in 19th-century ophthalmology, physiology and physics.

Conclusion

While retrospective diagnosis of modern illness categories in historical medical literature is an enterprise fraught with pitfalls, it is nonetheless possible to see patterns of experience in the 19th-century medical literature that are strongly reminiscent of visual snow syndrome.
Non-circular interference fit analysis in harmonic reducer based on sequential assembling and loading simulation
Authors: Xiong Ying , Fang Bin , Zhang Jinhua , Yan Ke , Liao Delin , Hong Jun
Published: March 2024

The flexible bearing is usually connected to the cam with an interference fit in harmonic reducers. Studies show that interference fit can cause changes in the structural parameters of the bearing and lead to changes in the service performance of the bearing and its supporting system. This paper proposes a general simulation method to investigate the influence of interference fit in harmonic reducers with the concept of the equivalent interference for non-circular fit between the flexible bearing and cam. Then, the four steps based on the sequential assembling and loading process are designed to ensure assembly concentricity and simulation convergence. The analysis results indicate that appropriately increasing the equivalent interference can improve the service life of the flexspline without degrading the meshing performance and, at the same time, increase the number of loaded balls to make the operation of the harmonic reducer more stable. Moreover, an optimal equivalent interference can be designed to ensure the harmonic reducer operates at its best, where the number of loaded balls and the maximum Mises stress of the inner ring appear inflection point, and the number of meshing tooth pairs reaches the maximum.
Shape factor analysis of a magnetohydrodynamics mixed convective Nimonic 80A/water nanofluid flow over a moving wedge in the presence of thermal radiation
Authors: Chakraborty Anomitra , Janapatla Pranitha
Published: March 2024

One of the most common problems faced in the industries is the lack of proper heat energy and temperature distribution management systems. The study of the effects of thermal radiation and magnetohydrodynamics on a water-based nanofluid flow with various shapes of the nanoparticle Nimonic 80A, over a moving wedge, is yet to be studied by any researcher. Being a superalloy of nickel–iron–chromium, Nimonic 80A is often used in exhaust systems and chemical plants as an anti-corrosive agent. The mathematical model presented in this article was transformed using similarity transformations and solved using MATLAB bvp4c code. All the results and graphs were formulated after a positive outcome of our results with that available in the existing literature. Increases in velocity and temperature were observed with the increase in empirical shape factors of the nanoparticle for various parameters. Local Nusselt number and skin-friction coefficients decreased under the influence of augmenting shape factors of the nanoparticles. The velocity profile decreased at a rate of 1.5% while the temperature profile augmented by 0.24% for an augmenting magnetic parameter from M = 0.6 to 0.8 while the velocity profile increased for an increase in radiation parameter. An increment in the nanoparticle concentration resulted in incrementing streamline values and skin friction coefficient by 0.38% and 6.83%, respectively.
Unveiling thioacetamide-induced toxicity: Multi-organ damage and omitted bone toxicity
Authors: Zhang Haodong , Xu Jian
Published: March 2024

Thioacetamide (TAA), a widely employed hepatotoxic substance, has gained significant traction in the induction of liver failure disease models. Upon administration of TAA to experimental animals, the production of potent oxidative derivatives ensues, culminating in the activation of oxidative stress and subsequent infliction of severe damage upon multiple organs via dissemination through the bloodstream. This review summarized the various organ damages and corresponding mechanistic explanations observed in previous studies using TAA in toxicological animal experiments. The principal pathological consequences arising from TAA exposure encompass oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid peroxidation, fibrosis, apoptosis induction, DNA damage, and osteoclast formation. Recent in vivo and in vitro studies on TAA bone toxicity have confirmed that long-term high-dose use of TAA not only induces liver damage in experimental animals but also accompanies bone damage, which was neglected for a long time. By using TAA to model diseases in experimental animals and controlling TAA dosage, duration of use, and animal exposure environment, we can induce various organ injury models. It should be noted that TAA-induced injuries have a time-dependent effect. Finally, in our daily lives, especially for researchers, we should take precautions to minimize TAA exposure and reduce the probability of related organ injuries.
Book review: Norena Shopland, A History of Women in Mens’ Clothes: From Cross-Dressing to Empowerment
Authors: Jose Anuja
Published: March 2024

Norena Shopland, A History of Women in Mens’ Clothes: From Cross-Dressing to Empowerment. Pen and Sword Books Ltd., 2021, 344 pp., ₹1,679
Family-Oriented Therapeutic Conversations: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Azcárate-Cenoz Nerea , Canga-Armayor Ana , Alfaro-Díaz Cristina , Canga-Armayor Navidad , Pueyo-Garrigues María , Esandi Nuria
Published: March 2024

There is increasing evidence that highlights the benefits of Family-oriented Therapeutic Conversations (FAM-TC) for the patient and the family; however, studies show variability regarding the content and the way these interventions are offered. This may hamper its further development in clinical practice. This review systematically maps the available literature on nurse-led FAM-TC and offers a solid synthesis of the characteristic, effectiveness, and feasibility of these interventions. A systematic search in PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Trip (Turning Research Into Practice), BASE (Bielefeld Academic Search Engine), OATD (Open Access Theses and Dissertations), and ProQuest databases identified 37 studies. The interventions varied in interventionist nurses’ profile, the intervention content, or the duration of the sessions offered. Most of the interventions showed beneficial effects on perceived family support and family functioning. This review offers suggestions for future studies, such as the inclusion of specific theoretical frameworks for intervention design, targeting both the patient and the family and offered by nurses with family nursing competency.
Psychometric Testing of the Experience of Integrating Chronic Illness into Family Life Questionnaire
Authors: Svavarsdottir Erla Kolbrun , Lemos Sara , Andrade Luísa , Barbieri-Figueiredo Maria Do Céu , Tryggvadottir Gudny Bergthora , Lima Lígia
Published: March 2024

Family members’ experience of integrating chronic illnesses or chronic conditions into family life is valuable information for health care professionals, such as nurses, to understand, improve, and adjust the care provided to families of chronically ill patients. Furthermore, the assessment of the experience of integrating chronic illness into family life can support family nursing interventions and reduce suffering. This study aimed to adapt and psychometrically test a new Likert-type questionnaire on the experience of integrating pediatric chronic illness into family life (EICI-FLQ) in two European samples. A sample of 164 primary caregivers of children/adolescents with chronic illnesses/conditions in Iceland and another sample of 237 primary caregivers with children/adolescents with chronic illnesses/conditions in Portugal completed the online questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis of the Icelandic sample yielded support for a one-factor solution with acceptable internal reliability (Cronbach’s α = .866). Confirmatory factor analysis of the one-factor structure in the Portuguese sample indicated good model fit and similar internal reliability (Cronbach’s α = .838). This instrument has good psychometric characteristics and is a promising tool for measuring the experience of integrating pediatric chronic illness into family life in clinical and research settings.
Evaluating the Nature and Prevalence of Economic Empowerment Services Provided to Intimate Partner Abuse Survivors
Authors: Chronister Krista M. , Kumar Nimisha , Mendoza Micah Michelle , Goodman Lisa A.
Published: March 2024

Economic empowerment (EE) services promote survivors’ economic stability and well-being. A target for intervention and prevention, then, is to offer more effective EE services. The study purpose was to develop a clearer picture of what EE services agencies offer, and how prepared staff are to provide these services. We collected data from 154 providers. Survivors most requested, and agencies most frequently provided, housing services. EE services offered did not differ by agency location, staff size, or number of clients. Providers’ confidence was greater if they completed high school; their agency offered more EE services; and they completed voluntary training.
A comparison of cemented femoral fixation via anterior versus posterior approach total hip arthroplasty: an analysis of 60,739 total hip arthroplasties
Authors: Hoskins Wayne , Corfield Sophie , Peng Yi , Graves Stephen E , Bingham Roger
Published: March 2024

Background:

Anterior approach total hip arthroplasty (THA) decreases the rate of dislocation but increases femoral-sided complications in the way of periprosthetic fractures and component loosening. A cemented prosthesis may reduce femoral-sided complications and improve the risk:benefit profile of anterior approach THA.

Methods:

Data from the Australian National Joint Replacement Registry were analysed for patients undergoing primary THA via the anterior or posterior approach using a cemented polished femoral stem from January 2015 to December 2021. The primary outcome measure was the cumulative percent revision (CPR) for all causes and CPR for femoral component loosening and fracture. The CPR for the primary outcome measures were compared between the anterior and posterior approach and adjusted for age, sex, ASA score, BMI and femoral head size.

Results:

The study included 60,739 THAs with cemented stems (10,742 anterior, 49,997 posterior). The rate of revision of the anterior versus the posterior approach did not significantly differ (HR 0.87 (95% CI, 0.74–1.03), p = 0.100). Anterior approach THA had a significantly higher rate of revision for femoral component loosening (HR 5.06 [95% CI, 3.08–8.30], p < 0.001); and a decreased rate of revision for infection (HR 0.59 [95% CI, 0.43–0.81], p = 0.001) and dislocation/instability (HR 0–3 months 0.48 [95% CI, 0.27–0.83], p = 0.008; HR >3 months 0.30 [95% CI, 0.15–0.61], p < 0.001). There was no difference in the rate of revision surgery for fracture between the 2 approaches (HR 1.01 [95% CI, 0.71–1.43]), p = 0.975).

Conclusions:

There is no significant difference in overall revision rates with cemented femoral fixation performed with an anterior or posterior approach. Cemented fixation performed with the anterior approach partly mitigates femoral complications with no difference in the revision rate for fracture but an increased rate of femoral component loosening.
Metal matrix composites for sustainable products: A review on current development
Authors: Gupta P K , Trivedi Alok Kumar , Gupta M K , Dixit Manish
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, with the increase in demand for lightweight and high-strength materials for engineering applications, metal matrix composites (MMCs) are found to be a better replacement for conventional materials owing to their excellent characteristics such as high strength-to-weight ratio, high strength and stiffness, high thermal conductivity and low coefficient of thermal expansion. MMCs have been used in various applications such as automobile parts, aerospace and aircraft parts, jet engines, satellites, missiles, military, heavy constructions, NASA space shuttle, bridges, biomedical applications (i.e., medical devices, implants and surgical instruments) and so on. Extensive research has been carried out on the performance of MMCs for the development of sustainable products, which motivated us to review the current development in the processing, properties and applications of these composites. This work presents a systematic review of the mechanical properties (tensile strength and modulus, flexural strength and modulus, impact strength and hardness) of MMCs. Further, it comprises the processing techniques, strengthening mechanism and applications of MMCs along with the recommendations for future work and challenges. The mechanical performances of MMCs are found to be highly influenced by the properties of reinforcement and matrices, interfacial bonding, dispersion of particles into matrix, shape and size of particles, percentage content of particles and processing techniques. This review study suggests that MMCs have great potential to efficiently fulfill the present and future demands.
How principals’ instructional leadership impacts schools’ middle leadership
Authors: Shaked Haim
Published: March 2024

Instructional leadership is a school leadership approach that prioritizes enhancing the quality of teaching and learning. This study explores how the principal's instructional leadership influences the school's middle leadership. The study participants were 24 principals from elementary schools in Israel, and data collection involved conducting semi-structured interviews. The collected data underwent three stages of analysis: sorting, coding, and categorizing. The findings revealed three key areas in which the principal's instructional leadership influences the school's middle leadership: the expectations of middle leaders, the selection and appointment of middle leaders, and the hierarchical structure of middle leaders within the school. These findings highlight the comprehensive impact of instructional leadership on various organizational aspects of middle leadership in schools.
The content of patients’ emotional expressions during follow-up consultations for chronic diseases
Authors: Yasmina Kebir , Valérie Saint-Dizier de Almeida
Published: March 2024

Objectives

In this article, we seek to extract the themes that patients share when they express negative emotions in the context of follow-up consultation of chronic illness. We are mainly interested in patients with chronic illnesses, as these pathologies have a significant emotional overload leading to a significant deterioration of the patient's quality of life.

Methods

Our corpus included audio recordings of 12 chronic disease follow-up consultations conducted by physicians practicing in neurology, nutrition, internal medicine and infectiology. The 12 patients participating suffer from various chronic diseases: Parkinson's, HIV, diabetes, etc. We performed thematic content analyses on the emotional sequences in order to extract the themes underlying these emotional expressions.

Results

The 10 themes we have extracted are related to physical aspects, psychological aspects, the healthcare system and/or the healthcare provider, prognostic elements, social life, family life, aspects of professional life, issues of daily life, treatments and finally, aspects related to objectives and disease progress.

Discussion/conclusion

Our results show that follow-up consultations for chronic illnesses are consultations during which patients express emotions for different purposes. These emotional expressions concern particular themes that are not found in other forms of medical consultations. We will compare these results in the discussion part of this article.
Sex differences in multiple sclerosis relapse presentation and outcome: a retrospective, monocentric study of 134 relapse events
Authors: Thränhardt Pauline , Veselaj Admirim , Friedli Christoph , Wagner Franca , Marti Stefanie , Diem Lara , Hammer Helly , Radojewski Piotr , Wiest Roland , Chan Andrew , Hoepner Robert , Salmen Anke
Published: March 2024

Background:

Reporting of sex-specific analyses in multiple sclerosis (MS) is sparse. Disability accrual results from relapses (relapse-associated worsening) and independent thereof (progression independent of relapses).

Objectives:

A population of MS patients during relapse treated per standard of care was analyzed for sex differences and short-term relapse outcome (3–6 months) as measured by Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) change.

Design:

Single-center retrospective study.

Methods:

We analyzed 134 MS relapses between March 2016 and August 2020. All events required relapse treatment (steroids and/or plasma exchange). Demographic, disease, and paraclinical characteristics [cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)] were displayed separated by sex. Multivariable linear regression was run to identify factors associated with short-term EDSS change.

Results:

Mean age at relapse was 38.4 years (95% confidence interval: 36.3–40.4) with a proportion of 71.6% women in our cohort. Smoking was more than twice as prevalent in men (65.8%) than women (32.3%). In- and after-relapse EDSSs were higher in men [men: 3.3 (2.8–3.9), women: 2.7 (2.4–3.0); men: 3.0 (1.3–3.6); women: 1.8 (1.5–2.1)] despite similar relapse intervention. Paraclinical parameters revealed no sex differences. Our primary model identified female sex, younger age, and higher EDSS at relapse to be associated with EDSS improvement. A higher immunoglobulin G (IgG) quotient (CSF/serum) was associated with poorer short-term outcome [mean days between first relapse treatment and last EDSS assessment 130.2 (79.3–181.0)].

Conclusion:

Sex and gender differences are important in outcome analyses of MS relapses. Effective treatment regimens need to respect putative markers for a worse outcome to modify long-term prognosis such as clinical and demographic variables, complemented by intrathecal IgG synthesis. Prospective trials should be designed to address these differences and confirm our results.
Efficacy of a Digital Diabetes Logbook for People With Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes: Results From a Multicenter, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ehrmann Dominic , Hermanns Norbert , Finke-Gröne Katharina , Roos Timm , Kober Johanna , Schäfer Vanessa , Krichbaum Michael , Haak Thomas , Ziegler Ralph , Heinemann Lutz , Rieger Cosima , Bingol Ezgi , Kulzer Bernhard , Silbermann Stephan
Published: March 2024

Background:

In a randomized controlled trial, the efficacy of a digital diabetes diary regarding a reduction of diabetes distress was evaluated.

Methods:

A randomized controlled trial with a 12-week follow-up was conducted in 41 study sites across Germany. Key eligibility criteria were a diagnosis of type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes and regular self-monitoring of blood glucose. Participants were randomly assigned (2:1 ratio) to either use the digital diabetes logbook (mySugr PRO), or to the control group without app use. The primary outcome was the reduction in diabetes distress at the 12-week follow-up. All analyses were based on the intention-to-treat population with all randomized participants. The trial was registered at the German Register for Clinical Studies (DRKS00022923).

Results:

Between February 11, 2021, and June 24, 2022, 424 participants (50% female, 50% male) were included, with 282 being randomized to the intervention group (66.5%) and 142 to the control group (33.5%). A total of 397 participants completed the trial (drop-out rate: 6.4%). The median reduction in diabetes distress was 2.41 (interquartile range [IQR]: −2.50 to 8.11) in the intervention group and 1.25 (IQR: −5.00 to 7.50) in the control group. The model-based adjusted between-group difference was significant (−2.20, IQR: −4.02 to −0.38, P = .0182) favoring the intervention group. There were 27 adverse events, 17 (6.0%) in the intervention group, and 10 (7.0%) in the control group.

Conclusions:

The efficacy of the digital diabetes logbook was demonstrated regarding improvements in mental health in people with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Ibrutinib-associated cutaneous mucormycosis due to an Apophysomyces species: report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Nguyen Trung Minh , Amenta Eva , Chapman Lynne , Yellapragada Sarvari , Krishnan Bhuvaneswari , Lim Jonathan , Hamill Richard J.
Published: March 2024

The use of ibrutinib, a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been associated with invasive fungal infections (IFIs). We describe a case of Apophysomyces infection associated with long-term use of ibrutinib for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia as well as perform a literature review of Mucormycosis infections in patients on ibrutinib. Our review found that the onset of IFI can occur within months to years of starting tyrosine kinase inhibitors. These reports provide a more complete picture of the risk of IFI while patients are on ibrutinib. Our case also demonstrates the utility of molecular techniques in the diagnosis of IFI, as the diagnosis was made using 28S rDNA/internal transcribed spacer PCR.
Problematic coffee use and associated factors among medical and health science students in Dilla University, Ethiopia
Authors: Kassaw Chalachew , Regasa Rediet , Negash Misrak , Alemwork Amare , Abebe Lulu , Yimer Solomon , Anbesaw Tamrat , Alemayehu Selamawit
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Coffee holds a cherished place in Ethiopian culture, its consumption among students raises concerns despite its perceived benefits for alertness and productivity. Moderate caffeine intake remains unproblematic, but exceeding 400 mg daily can trigger detrimental health effects such as fatigue, memory impairment, and even attention-deficit disorder. Research on problematic coffee use among young adults, specifically Ethiopian students, remains limited, hindering our understanding of its potential scope and impact. To address this knowledge gap, researchers at Dilla University, Ethiopia, undertook a comprehensive study in 2022, focusing on the university’s student population. This investigation holds significant potential to unveil the previously obscured landscape of excessive coffee consumption in this demographic and inform future research and potential interventions.

Methodology:

An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in August–July, 2022. To measure problematic coffee use, this study used the Diagnostic Statistical Manual five criteria for substance use disorder. Those who scored >2 out of 11 criteria were considered to have problematic coffee use. To measure a significant association between the outcome and independent variable, a multivariable logistic regression analysis at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval was employed.

Result:

This study included 414 respondents. More than half of the respondents, 347 (59.7%) were male. Out of all respondents, 182 (44.0%) had a boy/girlfriend. Nearly half of the respondents, 218 (52.7%) were orthodox, Christian religion followers. According to this study’s findings, 137 (33.1%) respondents were considered to have problematic coffee use. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that 5–10 years duration of coffee use (AOR = 4.62, 95% CI: 2.96–7.85; p = 0.001), start to use coffee before joining university (AOR = 2.977, 95% CI: 1.332–6.653; p = 0.008) and 6–9 cups of daily coffee use (AOR = 3.26, 95% CI: 2.14–5.89; p = 0.00) were associated with problematic coffee use.

Conclusion:

This study showed that one-third of the respondents had problematic coffee use. The starting point, duration, and amount of use had a strong association with problematic coffee use. Hence, focusing on addressing the mental health challenges associated with problematic/excessive coffee consumption among higher education students is advisable. Additionally, promoting awareness of problematic/excessive coffee use and its potential remedies is recommended.