bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes on the nesting and foraging behaviours of the Common Coot Fulica atra in the wetlands of Viluppuram District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: M. Pandian
Published: November 2022

The nesting and foraging behaviours of the Common Coot Fulica atra were studied in the wetlands of Viluppuram District, Tamil Nadu during the breeding season.  A total of 4,054 individuals of Common Coot including 467 juveniles and 1,327 nests were enumerated.  Of the 1,327 nests, 1,191 were built on Ipomoea carnea vegetation and 136 on open water.  The birds used twigs of Ipomoea carnea and various parts of eight other plant species as nest material.  The nests were elliptical in shape, with flattened upper surfaces containing nest cup and a ramp-like structure each.  49.96 % of nests were found within 50 m distance from the edge of wetlands.  A total of 16 plant species were identified as food sources including five algal species, such as Aphanothece stagnina, Spirogyra irregularis, Chara flaccida, C. vulgaris, and C. zeylanica.  The Common Coots maintained strict territory during the breeding season and no other water birds were observed in the vicinity of their nesting and foraging sites.  Even after completion of the breeding season, sporadic nesting was observed by a few pairs till June 2022.
First sighting record of the Orange-breasted Green-Pigeon Treron bicinctus (Aves: Columbiformes: Columbidae) from Chittaranjan, West Bengal, India
Authors: Khan Shahbaz Ahmed , Nazneen Zehra  , Jamal Ahmad Khan
Published: November 2022

The Orange-breasted Green-pigeon is a non-migratory frugivorous bird species from the family Columbidae. It is distributed in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and south-east Asian countries. In this paper, we report the first sighting record of the Orange-breasted Green-pigeon Treron bicinctus from Chittaranjan, West Bengal, India with photographic evidence.
Some threatened woody plant species recorded from forests over limestone of the Philippines
Authors: Inocencio E. Buot, Jr.  , Marne G. Origenes  , Ren Divien R. Obeña  , Elaine Loreen C. Villanueva  , Marjorie D. delos Angeles
Published: November 2022

This study was conducted to determine threatened woody plants in forests over limestone in Samar Natural Park (SINP), Guiuan Marine Resource Protected Landscapes and Seascapes (GMRPLS), and other areas in the Philippines, in order to design a strategic framework for sustainable conservation of threatened species. Combined fieldwork using standard vegetation techniques and comparative literature review were done. Results revealed a total of 196 woody plant species belonging to 48 families, with 60 (DAO 2017-11) and 182 (IUCN) threatened woody plant species in the forests over limestone. The top 10 important species noted include three Critically Endangered: Diospyros longiciliata Merr., Cynometra cebuensis Seidenschwarz, F., and Shorea astylosa Foxw; three Endangered: Cinnamomum cebuense Kosterm., Tectona philippinensis Benth. & Hook.f. and Vitex parviflora Juss.; and four Vulnerable species: Agathis philippinensis Warb., Aquilaria cumingiana (Decne) Ridley, Dipterocarpus gracilis Blume, and Shorea polysperma (Blanco) Merr. A framework for sustainable conservation has been designed to prevent the loss of these threatened botanical treasures.
Camera trapping records confirm the presence of the elusive Spotted Linsang Prionodon pardicolor (Mammalia: Carnivora: Prionodontidae) in Murlen National Park (Mizoram, India)
Authors: Amit Kumar Bal  , Anthony J. Giordano
Published: November 2022

The Spotted Linsang is an elusive and infrequently recorded small carnivore believed to be distributed widely throughout southern-southeastern Asia. Here, we present the first confirmation of this species from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, a protected area with tracts of subtropical evergreen forest less than 30 km from the western Myanmar border. These records are also the first to confirm the occurrence of the species in the southern portion of northeastern India. Although we could distinguish several individuals despite low camera-trap sampling effort, this population may be threatened by opportunistic and intentional hunting using projectiles and snares meant to kill small game for wildmeat.
Decoding a group of winged migrants!
Authors: Priyanka Iyer
Published: November 2022

Book review by Priyanka Iyer: Waders of the Indian Subcontinent
Published 2021
Format: Hardback. Edition: 1st
536 pages
ISBN: 9789354266966
Publisher: Self-published (partly supported by WWF-India)
First steps of citizen science programs in India
Authors: Kumar Aishwarya S. , Nair Lakshmi
Published: November 2022

NA
The effectiveness of artificial canopy bridges for the diurnal primates within a hydroelectric project in North Sumatra-Indonesia
Authors: Prasetyo Didik , Lestari Dini Ayu , Wahyuni Tri , Ismanto Agus Djoko
Published: November 2022

Primates that live within fragmented and disturbed habitat are facing population declines and a higher probability of extinction due to gene flow inhibition. To address this problem, land managers, practitioners, and primatologists have applied several approaches to enhance primates’ habitat quality and connectivity through habitat restoration and canopy bridge installation. In some cases, artificial canopy bridges have shown to be effective to facilitate movement between fragmented habitats for several primates’ taxa. However, while several types of canopy bridge designs are available, there is no clear evidence on which is the best for primates. Here we evaluated the effectiveness of three artificial canopy bridge designs within a hydroelectric project in Sumatra, Indonesia from 2019 to 2021. The hydroelectric project was located at the edge of a forest block within the Batang Toru Ecosystem which could disconnect the primate’s population from this protected forest to the other forest blocks. During 595 days of camera trapping, we captured 988 independent crossing events from six diurnal primate species (Pongo tapanuliensis, Hylobates agilis, Symphalangus syndactylus, Presbytis sumatrana, Macaca nemestrina, and Macaca fascicularis). Our initial observation finds the ladder canopy bridge design was commonly used by primates and Presbytis sumatrana was the species that often crossed the canopy bridge. These findings are important to improve species management plans and primate conservation in Indonesia.
On Chickens, Eggs, and the Birthplace of Jesus
Authors: Rowlands Jonathan
Published: November 2022

In this article, the author challenges the consensus surrounding Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. This consensus claims the Bethlehem birth was a fabrication posited as messianic fulfilment of Micah 5.2. First, the author summarises the majority position on the issue. Second, the author problematises the notion that there was an expectation regarding Bethlehem as messianic birthplace. Third, the author claims the available evidence might equally suggest Jesus was born in Bethlehem, with Micah 5.2 reinterpreted in light of this. As such, the author calls for renewed discussion about Jesus’ birthplace, and the nature of scholarly argumentation surrounding the issue.
Assessment of the phylogenetic relationships within the spondylidine branch of Spondylidinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
Authors: Soydabaş-Ayoub Havva Kübra , Uçkan Fevzi , Atak Şener , Şimşek Burcu Şabanoğlu , İbiş Osman
Published: November 2022

Spondylidinae is a minor subfamily of Cerambycidae with around 100 species in 20 genera. The tribes Asemini and Spondylidini, both salient owing to vectors and invaders into the limelight of phytosanitary authorities, constitute the “spondylidine branch”. Although a few species of the branch were being included in some higher taxonomic level studies, the phylogenetic relationships within the taxa have never been evaluated from a molecular viewpoint. The present study identifies the phylogenetic relationships within the branch inferring from a single locus (COI) global dataset and two multi-locus local datasets, binary combinations of mitochondrial COI, 16S rRNA and nuclear 28S rRNA D1-D2, that sequences were obtained from the samples of the East of Marmara Region, Turkey. [(Spondylis+Neospondylis) + Megasemum] and [Tetropium+Asemum] groups were separated from the same node in the phylogenetic trees. The genus Cephalallus was stated on the basalmost of these two groups. Arhopalus split from all other genera and divided into two subgroups. There were discrepancies between morphology and COI barcode sequences, which might be a sign of hybridisation between A. rusticus and A. syriacus. Intraspecific distances of COI gene regions of S. buprestoides, As. striatum and T. cinnamopterum were up to 4.26%, 8.51%, and 6%, respectively, which might point out to cryptic speciation.
Re-colonisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the Right to Self-determination
Authors: Shah Niaz A
Published: November 2022

On 5 August 2019, India unilaterally ended the autonomous status under Article 370 of the Indian constitution 1949. The state of Jammu and Kashmir (j&k) was established under the terms of the Instrument of Accession by the Ruler of j&k. To change the demographic composition of j&k, Article 35A of Indian constitution 1949 was also abolished and new domicile rules were introduced paving the way for non-Kashmiri Indians to settle permanently in j&k. Under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act 2019, Kargil and Leh districts were cut from Jammu and recategorized as Union Territory of Ladakh and the state of j&k was relegated to a Union Territory directly governed by the central government. On 5 May 2022, a delimitation report was published giving more seats to Hindus compared to Muslims against the population criterion. This article argues that India had started re-colonisation of j&k since October 1947. Eliminating its autonomous status in August 2019 was not the starting but a tipping point of the re-colonisation. After decolonisation of British India in August 1947, major Indian states such as Hyderabad; Junagadh and j&k were given the option to join India or Pakistan. India saw this as a ‘grave threat’ to her organic unity and invaded Hyderabad on 13 September 1947; j&k on 27 October 1947 and Junagadh on 9 November 1947. It is argued that India secured accession from the Ruler of j&k under compelling circumstances and on the condition that a free and impartial plebiscite would be held to ascertain the wishes of Kashmiri people. Since 1947, the pledge of plebiscite did not materialise. As freedom from colonialism has become a jus cogens, it is argued that the United Nations (UN) and its members have erga omnes obligations to respect and support the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people.
Bedrock may dictate the distribution of the fire salamander in the southern border of its global range
Authors: Shemesh Hagai , Dener Efrat , Sadeh Asaf
Published: November 2022

Understanding the factors that determine the spatial distribution of species is crucial for conservation planning. In this short communication, we review previous distribution models of the fire salamander (Salamandra infraimmaculata) in northern Israel, produced by the group of the late Prof. Leon Blaustein, while suggesting a biologically-informed reinterpretation of their main predictions. We argue for the prime importance of bedrock, specifically hard limestone, because it is tightly associated with the availability of karstic formations that are key to adult survival throughout the summer. Furthermore, we suggest that the spatial distribution of limestone bedrock also determines large-scale inter-population connectivity, and may explain the observed genetic differentiation among populations, as well as the southernmost limit of the species’ global distribution.
Una favola in forma di diario: l’originalità di Muḏakkirāt daǧāǧa (1943) dello scrittore palestinese Isḥāq Mūsā al-Ḥusaynī
Authors: Zanelli Patrizia
Published: November 2022

In literary history, Isḥāq Mūsā al-Ḥusaynī’s Muḏakkirāt daǧāǧa, where a wise hen tells her own story, might be the first beast fable written in the form of a diary, while it certainly is the first Palestinian novel to have gained widespread fame throughout the Arab world. This article focuses on the anthropomorphizing strategy devised by the author to write this allegorical tale, drawing inspiration from the apologues included in Ibn al-Muqaffaʿ’s Kalīla wa-Dimna, but also from other texts of various origins.

After explaining the themes al-Ḥusaynī treats in his novel, the essay offers a comparison between classical and modern fable models, mainly as far as narrative point of view is concerned. The study aims at displaying the stylistic uniqueness of Muḏakkirāt. It therefore compares this present-day fable with the Kalīla wa-Dimna as well as with Orwell’s Animal Farm (1945). The lexical analysis of Muḏakkirāt furtherly shows why al-Ḥusaynī’s allegorical novel is so unique and, in fact, the most prised work of pre-1948 Palestinian fiction.
Emerging Neo-Calvinistic Barth Interpretation in Sinophone Scholarship: Its Significance for Sino-Christian Theology
Authors: Tseng Shao Kai
Published: November 2022

Theology and philosophy are strange bedfellows: although they share many similar interests and constantly influence each other, their relationship is fraught with suspicion or even enmity. This problem is especially acute for those who want to harmonize their commitment to sola Scriptura with the use of philosophy in their theology. Drawing insights from Herman Bavinck’s Neo-Calvinist worldview, I argue that this apparent competition is mainly caused by the failure to recognize the organic unity between both disciplines. Without theology, all disciplines would be meaningless, but without philosophy, all disciplines would be unintelligible. Portraying the harmony between theology and philosophy depends on the success of locating the difference and relationship between the universality of theology and that of philosophy. Further, the organicity that suffuses all things and affirms the primacy of special revelation reflects the Neo-Calvinist belief in both sola scriptura and the sacredness of all vocations.
Uncovering Core Dimensions of K-12 Integrated STEM
Authors: Roehrig Gillian H. , Rouleau Mark D. , Dare Emily A. , Ring-Whalen Elizabeth
Published: November 2022

To address the lack of a classroom observation protocol aligned with integrated STEM, the author team developed one to measure the degree of integrated STEM instruction implemented in K-12 science and engineering classrooms. This study demonstrates how our instrument can be used to uncover the dimensions of integrated STEM instruction practiced in K-12 classrooms and to determine which protocol items are associated with each of these dimensions. This article reports on the results of a principal component analysis (PCA) using 2030 K-12 classroom observation videos. PCA revealed two core dimensions of integrated STEM education. Real-world problem-solving includes 21st century skills and STEM practices necessary for developing solutions to real-world problems. Nature of Integrated STEM includes items that promote integration between the real-world context, students’ personal experiences, STEM careers, and STEM content. The authors’ analysis also suggests the possibility of an additional dimension of integrated STEM involving technology practices in STEM.
Are People Hesitating—Or Just Postponing—to Get the Covid-19 Vaccine? Vaccine Outreach in Marginalized Urban Communities
Authors: Kogen Lauren , Cai Deborah A. , Pitts Cornelius , Imms Patricia , Perkins Mitch , Reeves Kathleen
Published: November 2022

Across Philadelphia, approximately 80% of adults are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. However, many zip codes in the city remain far below the city-wide vaccination rate. These zip codes correspond to marginalized sections of the city and to neighborhoods with a high proportion of residents of color and high levels of poverty. In-depth interviews were conducted with representatives from 15 community-based organizations (CBOs) that serve such communities in the city to (1) learn why people are not yet vaccinated and (2) evaluate methods for encouraging vaccination. A qualitative thematic analysis of interview transcripts was conducted to evaluate why people are not getting vaccinated. Together, the findings suggest that distrust toward the vaccine, the government, and the healthcare system, combined with a host of matters considered by residents to be more urgent—such as missing work, cost concerns, and concerns around presenting identification—result in what might be better described as vaccine postponement rather than vaccine refusal. For many, vaccination is simply not a priority. The findings from this analysis illuminate some of the lesser discussed reasons for vaccination delay and provide insights into how to promote vaccinations both for the current Covid pandemic and for future vaccination efforts.
Party, Race, and Neutrality: Investigating the Interdependence of Attitudes toward Social Groups
Authors: Brensinger Jordan , Sotoudeh Ramina
Published: November 2022

Recent public and scholarly discourse suggests that partisanship informs how people feel about social groups in the United States by organizing those groups into camps of political friends and enemies. More generally, this implies that Americans’ attitudes toward social groups exhibit interdependence, a heretofore underexplored proposition. We develop a conceptual and methodological approach to investigating such interdependence and apply it to attitudes toward 17 social groups, the broadest set of measures available to date. We identify three subpopulations with distinct attitude logics: partisans, who feel warm toward groups commonly associated with their political party and cool toward those linked to the out-party; racials, distinguished by their consistently warmer or cooler feelings toward all racial groups relative to other forms of social group membership; and neutrals, who generally evaluate social groups neither warmly nor coolly. Individuals’ social positions and experiences, particularly the strength of their partisanship, their race, and their experience of racial discrimination, inform how they construe the social space. These findings shed light on contemporary political and social divisions while expanding the toolkit available for the study of attitudes toward social groups.
Otolaryngology Patient Satisfaction with In-Office Appointments and Virtual Visits Due to COVID-19
Authors: Arrighi-Allisan Annie E. , Wong Anni , Gidumal Sunder , Shah Janki , Filip Peter , Omorogbe Aisosa , Rosenberg Joshua , Govindaraj Satish , Iloreta Alfred-Marc
Published: November 2022

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic forced otolaryngologists to seek new methods of providing patient care in a remote setting. The effect of this paradigm shift on patient satisfaction, however, remains unelucidated. This study compares patient satisfaction with telehealth visits during the COVID-19 pandemic to that with in-office visits during the same period in 2019.

Methods:

Press Ganey survey responses of patients seen by otolaryngologists within a large, academic, multicenter hospital system were gathered. Responses were included in analyses if they corresponded with a visit that occurred either in clinic March to December 2019 or via telehealth March to December 2020. Chi-Square Test of Independence and Fisher’s Exact Test were employed to detect differences between years. Binary logistic regressions were performed to detect the factors most predictive of positive telehealth experiences.

Results:

Patient overall satisfaction with in-office and telehealth visits did not differ significantly (76.4% in 2019 vs 78.0% in 2020 rated visit overall as “very good,” P = .09). Patients seen by a Head and Neck (odds ratio 4.13, 95% confidence interval 1.52-11.26, P = .005), Laryngology (OR 5.96, 95% CI 1.51-23.50, P = .01), or Rhinology (OR 4.02, 95% CI 1.55-10.43, P = .004) provider were significantly more likely to report a positive telehealth experience.

Conclusions:

Patients seen via telehealth during COVID-19 reported levels of satisfaction similar to those seen in-office the year prior. These telehealth satisfaction levels, however, are contextualized within the expected confines of a pandemic. Further research is required to determine whether satisfaction remains consistent as telemedicine becomes a ubiquitous component of medical practice.
Radiation-Induced Laryngeal Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid
Authors: Syal Amit , Lott David G. , Karle William E.
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

Bullous pemphigoid has previously been linked to radiotherapy, but here we report the first case of MMP suspected to be a consequence of RT.

Methods:

The patient described is an 85-year-old male who underwent RT to treat squamous cell carcinoma of the palatine tonsil. Shortly after therapy, the patient developed blisters with worsening dyspnea and dysphonia.

Results:

This patient was successfully treated with a combination of oral immunosuppressants and surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

This incident underscores that not all episodes of mucosal ulceration following radiation are a result of mucositis and MMP should be considered in the differential.

Level of evidence:

Level 4.
Clinical Presentation and Outcome of Sinonasal Extraosseous Plasmacytoma in Denmark: A Nationwide Cohort From 1980 to 2017
Authors: Eriksen Patrick René Gerhard , Khakbaz Elham , Clasen-Linde Erik , Brown Peter de Nully , Haunstrup Laura , Christoffersen Mette , Asdahl Peter , Thomsen Troels Møller , Gerner-Rasmussen Jonas , Heegaard Steffen , von Buchwald Christian
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

Extraosseous plasmacytoma (EOP) is a rare plasma cell neoplasm that tends to convert to plasma cell myeloma (PCM) in about 11% to 35% of cases. It has a predilection for the upper respiratory tract, prototypically affecting the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Contemporary first-line treatment is radiotherapy, with more recent studies showing an added benefit of combining radiation with surgery. In this cohort study, we aimed to examine clinical presentation, treatment, and prognosis for all patients nationwide from 1980 through 2017. Furthermore, we determined the size and extension of tumors, investigating the rate at which minimally invasive surgery would have been possible.

Methods:

Patients were found in the national pathology registry, and all biopsies were collected for pathology review by a hematopathologist. We performed survival statistics for overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and the cumulative incidence of conversion to PCM.

Results:

Twenty-three patients were included. The median age was 65, and patients were primarily men (78%). Tumors were located in either the nasal cavity (57%), maxillary sinus (39%), or sphenoid sinus (4%). In most cases, the tumor was <5 cm (65%) without extension to adjacent structures (60%). The national incidence was 0.02/100,000 person-years, the median symptom duration until diagnosis was 5 months, and none of the patients presented with contiguous spread to regional lymph nodes. Stand-alone radiotherapy was the predominant treatment (61%). In the entire cohort, one patient died from the initial disease, and six patients died from either relapse of EOP or PCM. The 5-year OS, PFS, and conversion rate to PCM were 78%, 56%, and 23%, respectively.

Conclusion:

SN-EOP responds well to radiotherapy, but relapse and conversion to PCM were not uncommon and entailed a poor prognosis. Most tumors were endoscopically resectable and non-invasive, making the majority of tumors suitable for surgery as an addition to radiation.
Parents’ Adherence to Follow-up Testing Instructions Following Hospital Discharge
Authors: Gross Itai , Berkun Lina , Egbaria Dema , Hashavya Saar , Rief Shimon
Published: November 2022

The adherence to follow-up testing instructions post-hospitalization is influenced by a variety of factors. Our aim was to assess the parental adherence to follow-up instructions and identify the factors that influence it. Parents of 200 children were asked about their adherence with these instructions; responses were obtained from 184 of 200. Parents did not adhere in 20 of 194 (10.9%) of cases. Families of infants under 12 months and children older than 10 years had lower adherence rates. Test completion was more frequent for children discharged with a test appointment compared with those discharged without an appointment (96% vs 86.6%; P = .07). The main reasons for non-adherence were disagreement as to the value of the testing (45%) or parental misunderstanding (30%). In conclusion, in order to increase adherence with post-hospitalization follow-up testing, physicians should focus on explaining the need and importance of the test and schedule an appointment prior to discharge.
The Comparison of the Sleep Structure and Sleep Spindle Activity in Children With Primary Snoring and Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Authors: Benbir Senel G. , Aktan Suzgun M. , Bibinoglu Amirov C. , Karadeniz D.
Published: November 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children is associated with changes in the structure of sleep. The possible effects of snoring on spindle activity have not been established. We analyzed the polysomnography recordings and sleep spindle activity in children with primary snoring and/or OSAS compared with healthy children. Fifty-one children were included; 8 had primary snoring, 16 had OSAS and snoring, 11 had OSAS without snoring, and 16 were healthy controls. The density ( P = .034) and duration ( P = .019) of sleep spindles were decreased in children with OSAS compared with controls. The sleep spindle activity did not show significant changes between children with primary snoring and healthy controls, or between OSAS with/without snoring. We conclude that it is not snoring per se but OSAS that affects sleep spindle activity. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome with/without snoring deserves greater attention because it has different phenotypes of the disease with different pathophysiologies.
“I Do Not Think She Will Understand, This is Not a Situation for a Girl Like Her:” Disenfranchised Grief Among Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the Ultra-orthodox Jewish Society
Authors: Zamir Alon , Band-Winterstein Tova
Published: November 2022

This article examines the experience of aging ultra-Orthodox families alongside a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in relation to parents' illness and death, followed by grief. In-depth interviews were conducted with 14 family units. Each family unit included the person with IDD, a parent, and a sibling―a total of 43 participants. Three main themes emerged: A. The difficulty in confronting illness and dying of parents alongside a family member with IDD in an Ultra-Orthodox Context. B. Exclusion of the person with IDD from parents' memorial events. C. Religious ceremonies as a strategy for coping with mourning among persons with IDD. The discussion focuses on the concept of disenfranchised grief in a religious context and its impact on the family support system. Culturally sensitive therapeutic recommendations are made for professionals working with older ultra-Orthodox Jewish families alongside a person with IDD in the context of the subject.
Spousal Mourning for Partners Living with Cognitive Impairment: The Interplay of Attachment and the Two-Track Model of Dementia Grief
Authors: Manevich Alexander , Rubin Simon Shimshon , Katz Michael , Ben-Hayun Rachel , Aharon-Peretz Judith
Published: November 2022

The aim of the present research was to study the interplay of Attachment Theory and the Two-Track Model of Dementia Grief. To examine the research hypotheses, a cross-sectional study was designed and included 122 participants (Mean age = 72.77) drawn from four groups: spouses of people living with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, spouses of people living with advanced cognitive impairment, widowed spouses of deceased dementia patients, and a control group. Participants completed a battery of self-report questionnaires. Results showed that secure attachment constitutes a significant protective factor with regard to bio-psycho-social symptomatology (Track I) as well as difficulties in the relational bond with the spouse and grief over their deterioration (Track II). The results of the research support integrating attachment-based insights into clinical work with spouses coping with the losses accompanying cognitive decline and the grief processes that are operant in these losses.
A novel technique to simulate and characterize yarn mechanical behavior based on a geometrical fiber model extracted from microcomputed tomography imaging
Authors: Bral Axel , Daelemans Lode , Degroote Joris
Published: November 2022

Textiles and their production machines are increasingly designed using simulations of the textile production process. These simulations require reliable structural yarn models. In practice, these models are often based on simplifying assumptions concerning the underlying geometry. However, in recent years more realistic geometrical fiber models have been developed, but have not been used to estimate the structural properties of yarns. The current contribution presents a new methodology to obtain a structural yarn model through numerical simulations based on a high-fidelity geometrical yarn model. Starting from microcomputed tomography data of a real-life natural fiber yarn used in air-jet weaving, a geometrical yarn model is constructed by tracing the individual fibers. This geometry is then incorporated in a computational finite-element analysis framework to obtain the yarn tensile and bending behavior through a simulated tensile test and Peirce cantilever test. Finally, the results are validated by comparison with experimental data. It is shown that this new technique succeeds to estimate the tensile and bending behavior. The presented methodology allows one to gain fundamental insight into the internal deformations and stresses in the yarn. Moreover, it is an important first step toward statistical studies on the structural yarn behavior on the microscale level and toward homogenized macro-models originating from a fully digital workflow.
Comfort properties of special clothes worn by sufferers from atopic dermatitis
Authors: Komarkova Petra , Glombikova Viera , Vesela Daniela
Published: November 2022

This article investigates the performance of special knitwear made and recommended for sufferers of atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is a condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Generally, fabrics with hygienic, antimicrobial, and mechanical non-irritating properties are recommended for sufferers from atopic dermatitis. The idea is to find the optimal textile structure that eliminates pain and wearing discomfort (both sensorial and thermo-physiological components). Based on a questionnaire survey of the needs of people with dermatitis, a group of properties was determined that crucially influence total wearing comfort. The measurement of these properties was conducted on eight commercially used knitwear types. Sensorial comfort was represented by parameters of total hand value, subjective wearing value, and warm/cold feeling value; physiological comfort by thermal conductivity, moisture management, water vapor and air permeability, and drying efficiency. The decision-making method Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution was used to determine the best solution considering the combination of the properties mentioned above. In summary, high air and water vapor permeability, hand feeling, and especially surface roughness fundamentally affect atopic customer decisions. Further, fabrics made from natural fibers (silk and linen) have a high potential to meet the needs of people with atopic dermatitis conditions. Both materials (M1, M7) show a combination of the high level of air permeability (more than 530 (mm . s−1)), a low level of water vapor resistance (in the range of 1.4–3.5 (m2 . Pa . W−1)) and provide very good subjective wearing comfort. Therefore, they can be substituted for traditional expert-recommended cotton.
Development and analysis of a three-dimensional braided honeycomb structure
Authors: Li Qianqian , Zhang Honghua , Mosleh Yasmine , Alderliesten René , Li Wei
Published: November 2022

This paper presents the design and development of three-dimensional braided honeycomb structures. The basic principles and braiding process are described. The relationship between braiding parameters and honeycomb geometric parameters is established and several three-dimensional (3D) braided honeycomb fabrics are introduced. Based on the principle of the 3D braiding ‘four-step’ method, the interlaced state of yarns can be changed by controlling the movement of yarn carriers, so the separation and combination of the braid can be controlled, then 3D braided honeycomb fabric can be formed. As the number of braiding cycles of wall length increases, the relative density will gradually decrease, but the number of braiding cycles of free wall length has a greater effect on the relative density. When the number of columns of yarns participating in wall thickness increases, the relative density will gradually increase. The relative density also showed a positive correlation with the braiding angle. With the increase of the opening angle, the relative density gradually decreases, although there is a minimum point after which a little increase is observed. This paper provides significant guidance for designing various 3D braided honeycomb structures and evaluating their relative density, and can be a reference for the design and development of new honeycombs structures.
Reported Self-Efficacy of Health Educators During COVID-19
Authors: Nobiling Brandye D. , Long-White Deneen , Petrolino Ashley
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many public health professionals to take on new roles such as online teaching, communicating, and managing; serving on the frontlines of patient care; and serving as health education resource personnel. Researchers of this study posed the question: How has the pandemic impacted those who serve to help others? Seven aspects of self-efficacy in professional practice were examined via an online survey sent to health educators. Respondents were extremely confident communicating with their colleagues and supervisors (60%) and with students (51%), but only 19% were extremely confident in maintaining a work-life balance and 22% in managing personal and professional stress. Respondents reported being confident in all areas of responsibilities, overall, but they were most confident in Area 8 (ethics and professionalism) and least confident in Area 1 (assessing the needs and capacity of a community) since COVID-19. Findings imply a need for more professional development opportunities to foster professional and personal self-efficacy and to improve self-efficacy in needs assessment, leadership, and advocacy. Findings also show a need for workplace or state-based interventions to support resiliency and self-care among professionals who work to serve others.
State of nature versus states as firms: reassessing the Waltzian analogy of structural realism
Authors: Tong Zhichao
Published: November 2022

This paper examines one often overlooked aspect of Kenneth Waltz’s Theory of International Politics: the analogy he makes between firms and states. Specifically, I contrast this ‘states as firms’ analogy adopted by Waltz with the state of nature analogy that has often been attributed to him. I make three separate but interrelated claims: (1) the state of nature analogy is not only different from the states as firms analogy, but may also be an inappropriate one for structural realism in the sense that it fails to account for some of the theory’s key theses; (2) the states as firms analogy helps us to better understand, if not to fully embrace, how Waltz arrives at certain central premises of his theory; and (3) the states as firms analogy provides a more comprehensive account of dynamic effects of the international system, including the transformation of state attributes that would have been neglected by those who subscribe to the state of nature analogy.
Multiple Pyogenic Granulomas in the External Auditory Canal
Authors: Lee Hyun Jin , Kim Ji-Ye , Lee Jeon Mi
Published: November 2022

Pyogenic granuloma is a benign vascular tumor of the skin or mucous membrane. One-third of pyogenic granulomas have been reported in the head and neck, but it is rarely present in the external auditory canal. Pyogenic granuloma mostly presents as a solitary granuloma, and only a few cases of multiple forms have been reported. This report describes a rare case of multiple pyogenic granulomas in the external auditory canal of a 36-year-old man along with a review of the literatures. Although it is very rare for PGs to occur in the EAC, it can be suspected in conditions such as after acute and/or chronic trauma, hormonal changes or systemic drug administration, rapid growth, and easy bleeding tendency with a friable surface. Some PGs may spontaneously resolve, but when they cause symptoms, excision is recommended for treatment and diagnosis. In the case of excision, the tumor should be excised down to the perichondrium level to prevent recurrence. Although PG mainly occurs in a solitary form, the present case shows a new clinical variation where multiple PGs were present in the EAC.
Predicting social media rumours in the context of public health emergencies
Authors: Sun Ran , An Lu , Li Gang , Yu Chuanming
Published: November 2022

The spread of rumours on social media in the context of public health emergencies often distorts perceptions of public events and obstructs crisis management. Microblog entries about 28 rumour cases are collected on Sina Weibo during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Modality–Agency–Interactivity–Navigability model is used to identify the key factors of rumour prediction. To investigate the relationship among information modality, information content, information source and rumour identification, the binary logistic regression model is established based on the features of users and microblog entries. In addition, we propose a multi-feature rumour prediction model based on the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) models. The proposed rumour prediction model has the best performance compared with other models. The feature importance is then calculated by the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), which can also explain the XGBoost results. It is shown that the likelihood that microblog entries are rumours decreases as the values of variables such as user influence and the positive sentiment of comments rise. Microblog entries posted on Thursdays or at noon are more probably to be rumours than those posted at other time. The proposed model can assist emergency management departments in establishing a feasible rumour prediction mechanism to guide public opinion against rumours.
De Novo Seizures, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms and Neutropenias in Patients on Clozapine: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chichra Abhinav , Varughese Niji Rachel , Innamuri Raviteja
Published: November 2022

Background:

Clozapine has well-documented inter-ethnic variations in pharmacokinetics. There is a paucity of data about clozapine use and associated adverse events such as seizures, obsessive compulsive symptoms, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis, from India.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study followed up 228 patients initiated on clozapine in a tertiary care referral center in India for an average of 10 years. We calculated incidence rates of new-onset seizures, new-onset obsessive compulsive symptoms, agranulocytosis, and neutropenia. We collected data on doses of clozapine used and serum assays and calculated concentration-to-dose (C/D) ratios. We also collected relevant clinical details about clozapine-induced seizures.

Results:

In the sample, 16.8% had new-onset seizures, 12.3% had new-onset OC symptoms, 2.7% had neutropenia, and 0.9% had agranulocytosis. The mean C/D ratio was 2.09 (SD = 1.8). Almost half (46.3%) of available serum assays were in the supra-therapeutic range. Seizures were associated with a higher clozapine dose at one year (OR = 1.003; 95%CI = 1.000–1.006; P value = 0.045) and the presence of positive psychotic symptoms at one year (OR = 4.214; 95%CI = 1.894–9.373; P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Compared to existing literature, Indians have a higher rate of clozapine- related seizures and need lower doses to reach therapeutic serum levels.
Analyzing the interaction of the challenges of big data usage in a cloud computing environment
Authors: Valmohammadi Changiz , Varaee Fatemeh
Published: November 2022

The main purpose of this study is to identify and prioritize the challenges of big data in the cloud computing environment in the Iranian banking sector. Based on an in-depth analysis of the relevant literature the main challenges regarding the utilization of big data in cloud computing environment were determined. Using the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) the important factors from the perspective of the managers and experts of the surveyed banks were screened and finalized. To address the vagueness of human judgments using fuzzy logic and a hybrid approach consisting of decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and analytic network process (ANP), known as FDANP the identified challenges were prioritized. The obtained results revealed that the most important challenge (influential) factor is “Availability”, whilst “Transformation” is the most permeable factor. The findings of the study contribute to the knowledge of the managers and policymakers of the Iranian banking sector.
Views of inpatients on the prevention of venous thrombosis with ankle pump exercise: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Liu Yujie , Wang Fang , Ma Danfeng , Wu Xuejun , Hui Zhen , Zhang Haiyan , Zhang Li
Published: November 2022

Introduction

This study investigated the current status of patients' knowledge and clinical compliance with ankle pump exercises in order to better enhance patient education and improve patient compliance with ankle pump exercises.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of the current status of ankle pump exercise awareness and compliance was conducted using a self-designed questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of a general demographic information questionnaire, a questionnaire on patients’ perceptions of ankle pump exercise and a compliance questionnaire.

Results

A total of 2,203 patients from 53 clinical departments participated in this survey. 87.8% of patients considered ankle pump exercise important, 92.1% could grasp the knowledge of ankle pump exercise, 48.5% could self-monitor and exercise daily as instructed, 81.5% of health care workers would often supervise patients to complete ankle pump exercise, poor self-control (34.6%), lack of physical strength (21.1%) and perceived hassle (18.9%) were the top 3 factors contributing to patients' inability to complete the ankle pump exercise. Regression analysis showed that the factors influencing patients' compliance with the ankle pump exercise were literacy, economic level, number of comorbidities and caprini risk class ( p < .05).

Conclusion

The patient’s cognition of ankle pump exercise is good, but the compliance needs to be improved. It is suggested that the compliance of ankle pump exercise in hospitalized patients should be improved in the future to reduce the incidence of Venous thromboembolism.
Clinical results of polidocanol sclerotherapy in venous malformation treatment: Patient-perceived improvement and satisfaction
Authors: Çay Ferdi , Altunbulak Ahmet Y , Özbay Yakup , Eldem Gonca , Çil Barbaros E , Vargel İbrahim , Kutluk Mustafa T , Yalçın Bilgehan , Peynircioğlu Bora
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study evaluated the results of polidocanol sclerotherapy in the treatment of venous malformations (VM) including patient satisfaction, perceived improvement, and predictors of satisfaction.

Material and Method

Patients with VM that underwent polidocanol foam sclerotherapy between June 2013 and July 2021 in a single center were retrospectively evaluated. Patient demographics, VM, and treatment characteristics were analyzed. Patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction were analyzed with a questionnaire.

Results

This study included 232 (136, 58.6%, female) patients. The mean age was 24.49 ± 12.45 years (range 3–72). The clinical response rate was 82.3%. The rate of satisfaction was 82.3%, and 116 (50%) patients were significantly satisfied. There were no major complications. Clinical response and VM margin were related to satisfaction ( p < 0.01, p = 0.012, respectively). Clinical response to pretreatment swelling was related to significant satisfaction ( p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Polidocanol sclerotherapy was safe and effective in VM treatment with high satisfaction and low complication rates.
Understanding the role and deployment of volunteers within specialist palliative care services and organisations as they have adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic: A multi-national EAPC volunteer taskforce survey
Authors: Walshe Catherine , Pawłowski Leszek , Shedel Sophie , Vanderstichelen Steven , Bloomer Melissa J , Goossensen Anne , Limonero Joaquín T , Stoelen Karen Sangild , Caraffa Chiara , Pelttari Leena , Scott Ros
Published: November 2022

Background:

Early indications were of a major decline in specialist palliative care volunteer numbers during COVID-19. It is important that ongoing deployment and role of volunteers is understood, given the dependence of many palliative care services on volunteers for quality care provision.

Aim:

To understand the roles and deployment of volunteers in specialist palliative care services as they have adjusted to the impact of COVID-19.

Design:

Observational multi-national study, using a cross-sectional online survey with closed and free-text option questions. Disseminated via social media, palliative care networks and key collaborators from May to July 2021.

Setting/participants:

Any specialist palliative care setting in any country, including hospices, day hospices, hospital based or community teams. The person responsible for managing the deployment of volunteers was invited to complete the survey.

Results:

Valid responses were received from 304 organisations (35 countries, 80.3% Europe). Most cared for adults only (60.9%), provided in-patient care (62.2%) and were non-profit (62.5%). 47.0% had cared for people with COVID-19. 47.7% changed the way they deployed volunteers; the mean number of active volunteers dropped from 203 per organisation to 33, and 70.7% reported a decrease in volunteers in direct patient/family facing roles. There was a shift to younger volunteers. 50.6% said this drop impacted care provision, increasing staff workload and pressure, decreasing patient support, and increasing patient isolation and loneliness.

Conclusion:

The sustained reduction in volunteer deployment has impacted the provision of specialist palliative care. Urgent consideration must be given to the future of volunteering including virtual modes of delivery, micro-volunteering, and appealing to a younger demographic.