bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the Mangrove Forest Restoration Potential and Conservation Gaps in China Based on Random Forest Model
Authors: Yu Zhonghua , Li Wei , Zhang Shaowei , Zhong Buqing , Wang Jun , Lee Shi-young , Choi Jaehyuck , Deng Shulin
Published: September 2022

Background and objective: The area of mangroves is gradually decreasing globally, and mangroves are already one of the most threatened ecosystems. Despite net growth in the mangrove areas in China, the restoration potential of mangroves is still insufficient. This study proposed the Random forest model as an excellent data mining method to map the restoration potential based on the predicted probability of mangrove habitat suitability.Methods: We demonstrated the vital environmental variables influencing habitat suitability. The de-cisive advantages of RFM were parsimonious (variables selection), cost-effective (us-ing existing open-source data), accurate (training AUC was 0.89, testing AUC was 0.91), highly efficient (fast-training speed); and its results had high explanatory power. Here, we first mapped the conservation gaps using the RFM.Results: The results showed that temperature was the most important environmental factor influencing the habitat suit-ability of mangroves. The northern limit of suitable areas was around 24°44' N. The theoretical suitable habitat area for mangrove was 196,566.6 ha (the highly suitable area was 32,551.4 ha, the medium suitable area was 164,015.2 ha). The potential area for mangrove restoration was 176,264 ha (Guangdong with 104215.4 ha, Guangxi with 65957.5 ha).Conclusion: We proposed 24 sites with conservation gaps for mangrove forests restoration and nine potential sites as examples for the further restoration plan. We took one example site with high restoration potential for further explanation: how the key environmental factors influence the habitat suitability and how to use the infor-mation to guide the restoration strategies. RFM can be used as a data mining algo-rithm for the utmost use of the presence-only ecological data, objectively evaluating the suitability of species distribution, and providing scientifically technical data for species restoration planning.
Animal Abuse and Bullying/Victimization in a Community Sample of School-Age Children
Authors: Andreou Eleni , Vasiou Aikaterini , Xafakos Efstathios , Korona Aikaterini
Published: September 2022

In recent years school bullying and other forms of aggressive behaviors in children and adolescents have become an issue of great concern among parents, psychologists, and educators. This study examined the relationship between school bullying and animal abuse in a community sample of school-age children. One hundred and seventy-four elementary school students from central Greece participated in the study and filled in self-report questionnaires which examined animal abuse, bullying – victimization, empathy, self-control, and peer interactions. Results showed that bullying behavior and peer victimization are associated with both direct abuse of animals and witnessing violence against animals. Multiple regression analysis indicated that witnessing animal abuse and being victimized by peers are positive predictors of bullying. Empathy, self-control, and peer interactions failed to predict school bullying. We discuss theoretical mechanisms linking bullying/victimization and animal abuse as well as directions for future research.
Insect-parasitic phases in the development of the mycetophagous wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus trypophloei, in its vector, an aspen bark beetle Trypophloeus asperatus
Authors: Tomalak Marek
Published: September 2022

Bursaphelenchus trypophloei is a common wood nematode associated with the poplar bark beetle, Trypophloeus asperatus, in European aspen, Populus tremula. The nematode develops and reproduces in larval galleries of T. asperatus and is transmitted to new breeding trees by adult beetles during their flight and oviposition. Its dispersal third-stage juveniles (DJIII) are unique because of their exceptionally early penetration into the haemocoel of the second- or third-larval stage of the future vector/host and long-term (up to 10 months) occupation of this environment. Detailed morphological/anatomical, and bionomic study revealed that while living in the vector’s haemocoel the nematode dispersal/dauer juveniles pass through a series of intermittent changes with three distinct developmental phases. The sequence of these phases corresponded to the process of diapause observed in many plant and animal parasites. Throughout the period of living in the haemocoel, the nematodes remained at their dispersal juvenile stage (DJIII) but clearly increased in size and changed their morphometrics and shape of such anatomical/morphological characters as the metacorpus and tail terminus. Moreover, the juveniles apparently ingested the food from the vector’s haemolymph. Specifically, in the insect haemocoel, the body of dispersal/parasitic juveniles became less transparent with most organs being obscured by an increasing amount of refractive nutrient storage granules. After penetration into the insect the process of diapause was irreversible, irrespective of the availability of food (i.e., Leptographium spp. fungus). The nematodes could resume their further development only after the natural emergence from the vector beetle to its new galleries or a few days earlier, when mature third phase DJ (DJIII-3) juveniles were dissected from the beetle and transferred to a fresh fungal culture. The data indicate that B. trypophloei is exclusively mycetophagous when free-living in the larval galleries of its insect vector, T. asperatus, and parasitic in the haemocoel of this insect.
Pittard on Religious Disagreement
Authors: Kvanvig Jonathan L.
Published: September 2022

This paper focuses on Pittard’s path to rationalism. It begins from the master argument Pittard identifies against rational disagreement among epistemic peers. It raises an issue for Pittard’s endorsement of the first premise of that argument, but focuses primarily on the third premise. It suggests a way of denying the third premise beyond the possibilities Pittard identifies, and then questions the strategy Pittard uses for ruling out competitors to his rationalism for defending the possibility of partisan justification in cases of peer disagreement.
The Roman Catholic Church and Youth Unemployment in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Amaefule Adolphus Ekedimma
Published: September 2022

Like many places in Africa, youth unemployment in Nigeria is massive. Granted, some scholars have deliberated on the role of the Church in Nigeria in tackling it; their preoccupation, however, has been majorly with the Church in Nigeria as a whole, rather than with individual churches. Employing historical and descriptive phenomenological methodology, this article, on the contrary, considers the role of the Roman Catholic Church in South-East Nigeria, in the fight against the same issue, of youth unemployment. The article, among others, makes a case for a much more participation of faith-based organizations in confronting the many social problems facing the youths in contemporary Africa.
Conversion, Persecution, and the Reforming Voices of Muslims in Post–Revolution Iran
Authors: Nazir-Ali Michael , Bazmjou Amir S.
Published: September 2022

Christian faith has a long and continuous history in Iran. The period since the Islamic Revolution of 1979 has been particularly stressful, with outbreaks of severe persecution, imprisonment and both judicial and extrajudicial killings. Despite this, record numbers of people have been coming to faith in Christ and meeting mostly in homes. Although the Iranian people remain largely tolerant of difference, the regime has cracked down hard on these new Christians, closing churches, arresting leaders, imprisoning believers and confiscating assets. Some reforming voices have, however, been raised against the suffocating Theocracy of contemporary Iran and the suffering it causes in all sections of the population. It remains to be seen whether these voices will influence the future course of Iranian society and whether they will have any effect on the suffering of Christians and other minorities in Iran.
Muslim Minorities in Europe
Authors: Ghatas Ishak Makram
Published: September 2022

Living in Europe substantially alters the context of Muslim immigrants. They live as minorities amid non-Muslims and are governed by the secular state (with Christian antecedents) and its laws. This paper focuses on one aspect of larger research conducted in Belgium.1 It examines evidence from the ground related to issues involving dietary rules. It shows how Muslims in Belgium look for creative adaptations to challenges of everyday life, involving food. At a deeper level, the findings highlight examples of ordinary Muslims proactively seeking guidance for particular issues and finding their own creative solutions in many instances. Therefore, they are not passive followers but free agents making choices in adapting to the position they consider most suitable.
Additions to chrysophycean stomatocyst flora from South Urals shallow lake including descriptions of three new morphotypes
Authors: IGNATENKO MARINA , YATSENKO-STEPANOVA TATYANA , KAPUSTIN DMITRY
Published: September 2022

In this study we observed 17 additional morphotypes of chrysophycean stomatocysts from the shallow lake Zhurmankol which is located in a protected zone of South Urals steppes (Russia). Including our new records, the number of known chrysophycean stomatocysts from the Lake Zhurmankol increased to 32 morphotypes. Three morphotypes are described as new to science. Their similarity and difference from previously described morphotypes are discussed. While the biological affinity of two new morphotypes remains unknown, the third stomatocyst was produced by a heterotrophic chrysophyte species, Paraphysomonas bandaiensis. Critical analysis of the published micrographs of P. bandaiensis siliceous scales from Russia revealed that they belong to another, yet undescribed, taxon (or taxa). So, our report on P. bandaiensis is the first confirmed record of this species in Russia.
Two new species of Phaeoclavulina (Gomphaceae, Gomphales) from Hunan Province, China
Authors: LIU WEN-HAO , YAN JUN , DENG PENG-TAO , QIN WEI-QIANG , ZHANG PING
Published: September 2022

Two new species of Phaeoclavulina (Gomphaceae, Gompales, Basidiomycota) from Hunan Province, China are distinguished on the basis of the morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Phaeoclavulina aeruginea is characterized by basidiomata ramarioid, repeatedly branched, stipe yellowish brown, copper-green and blunt branch tips, and the context, turning wine red when bruised or exposed. Phaeoclavulina cinnamomea produces the cinnamon basidiomata, crowded branches, and large basidiospores with truncate (volcanic) spines, which is particularly rare in Phaeoclavulina. The two species are illustrated by drawings and photographs, including scanning electron micrographs. Their taxonomic distinctness was supported by the phylogenetic analyses of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and nuclear ribosomal large subunit (nrLSU) sequence data. The ITS and nrLSU sequences newly generated in this study were deposited in GenBank. A key to Phaeoclavulina species in China is provided.
Diplocarpa constans sp. nov., a new species of Cordieritidaceae from Yunnan, China
Authors: SU HONGLI , THILINI CHETHANA K.W. , LI LU , LI WENCHUN , ZHAO QI
Published: September 2022

This study describes a new species, Diplocarpa constans, collected from southwestern China, characterized by its excipulum with a negative ionomidotic reaction. Phylogenetic analyses based on the combined LSU, ITS and SSU dataset supported the establishment of the new species within Diplocarpa. The study discusses the differences between the new species and closely related species and provides detailed descriptions and illustrations of the new taxa.
Manabe’s Radiative–Convective Equilibrium
Authors: Jeevanjee Nadir , Held Isaac , Ramaswamy V.
Published: September 2022

Syukoro (Suki) Manabe’s Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded largely for his early work on one-dimensional models of “radiative–convective equilibrium” (RCE), which produced the first credible estimates of Earth’s climate sensitivity. This article reviews that work and tries to identify those aspects that make it so distinctive. We argue that Manabe’s model of RCE contained three crucial ingredients. These are (i) a tight convective coupling of the surface to the troposphere, (ii) an assumption of fixed relative humidity rather than fixed absolute humidity, and (iii) a sufficiently realistic representation of greenhouse gas radiative transfer. Previous studies had separately identified these key ingredients, but none had properly combined them. We then discuss each of these ingredients in turn, highlighting how subsequent research in the intervening decades has only cemented their importance for understanding global climate change. We close by reflecting on the elegance of Manabe’s approach and its lasting value.
A Modern Approach to a Stability-Based Definition of the Tropopause
Authors: Tinney Emily N. , Homeyer Cameron R. , Elizalde Lexy , Hurst Dale F. , Thompson Anne M. , Stauffer Ryan M. , Vömel Holger , Selkirk Henry B.
Published: September 2022

Definition of the tropopause has remained a focus of atmospheric science since its discovery near the beginning of the twentieth century. Few universal definitions (those that can be reliably applied globally and to both common observations and numerical model output) exist and many definitions with unique limitations have been developed over the years. The most commonly used universal definition of the tropopause is the temperature lapse-rate definition established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1957 (the LRT). Despite its widespread use, there are recurrent situations where the LRT definition fails to reliably identify the tropopause. Motivated by increased availability of coincident observations of stability and composition, this study seeks to reexamine the relationship between stability and composition change in the tropopause transition layer and identify areas for improvement in a stability-based definition of the tropopause. In particular, long-term (40+ years) balloon observations of temperature, ozone, and water vapor from six locations across the globe are used to identify covariability between several metrics of atmospheric stability and composition. We found that the vertical gradient of potential temperature is a superior stability metric to identify the greatest composition change in the tropopause transition layer, which we use to propose a new universally applicable potential temperature gradient tropopause (PTGT) definition. Application of the new definition to both observations and reanalysis output reveals that the PTGT largely agrees with the LRT, but more reliably identifies tropopause-level composition change when the two definitions differ greatly.

Significance Statement

In this study we provide a review of existing tropopause definitions (and their limitations) and investigate potential improvement in the definition of the tropopause using balloon-based observations of stability and atmospheric composition. This work is motivated by the need for correct identification of the tropopause to accurately assess upper-troposphere–lower-stratosphere processes, which in turn has far-reaching implications for our understanding of Earth’s radiation budget and climate. The result of this research is the creation of a new, universally applicable stability-based definition of the tropopause: the potential temperature gradient tropopause (PTGT).
Randomized Subensembles: An Approach to Reduce the Risk of Divergence in an Ensemble Kalman Filter Using Cross Validation
Authors: Caron Jean-François , McTaggart-Cowan Ron , Buehner Mark , Houtekamer Pieter L. , Lapalme Ervig
Published: September 2022

In an ensemble Kalman filter, when the analysis update of an ensemble member is computed using error statistics estimated from an ensemble that includes the background of the member being updated, the spread of the resulting ensemble systematically underestimates the uncertainty of the ensemble mean analysis. This problem can largely be avoided by applying cross validation: using an independent subset of ensemble members for updating each member. However, in some circumstances cross validation can lead to the divergence of one or more ensemble members from observations. This can culminate in catastrophic filter divergence in which the analyzed or forecast states become unrealistic in the diverging members. So far, such instabilities have been reported only in the context of highly nonlinear low-dimensional models. The first known manifestation of catastrophic filter divergence caused by the use of cross validation in an NWP context is reported here. To reduce the risk of such filter divergence, a modification to the traditional cross-validation approach is proposed. Instead of always assigning the ensemble members to the same subensembles, the members forming each subensemble are randomly chosen at every analysis step. It is shown that this new approach can prevent filter divergence and also brings a cycling ensemble data assimilation system containing divergent members back to a state consistent with Gaussianity. The randomized subensemble approach was implemented in the operational global ensemble prediction system at Environment and Climate Change Canada on 1 December 2021.
Statins and Mortality of Patients After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Yarahmadi Pourya , Kabiri Ali , Forouzannia Seyed Mohammad , Yousefifard Mahmoud
Published: September 2022

While TAVI is widely used, optimal medical therapy to reduce the mortality rate after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is still unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of statins on mortality following TAVI. Present systematic review of the literature was performed using Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science; all studies reported all-cause mortality in patients who underwent TAVI and received or did not receive statin therapy. Data were analyzed using random-effects models. Seventeen articles (21 380 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Statin therapy was associated with a reduction of all-cause mortality (Hazard ratio [HR] = .78, 95% Confidence interval [CI] .68–.89, P < .001). Moderate between-study heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 45.2). High-intensity statin therapy was more effective than low or moderate intensity statin therapy in reduction of all-cause mortality (Risk ratio [RR] = .62, 95% CI 0.45–.85, P = .003, I2 = .0). Statin therapy could reduce the mid-term all-cause mortality rate following TAVI. However, all included studies were observational and, therefore, randomized controlled trials are still needed to assess the effect of statin therapy on mortality after TAVI.
A Practical Procedure for Analysis of Lead Isotopes in Bivalve Shells Using Laser Ablation Multicollector Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS)
Authors: Pessoa Igor , Cunha Bruno , Coelho Marco , Romero Luiz Felipe , Tavares Armando Dias , Antonioli Luzia , Moterani Ana Carolina
Published: September 2022

Lead, like other trace elements, is incorporated in the growing bands of bivalve shells. The chemicals stored into the shells can provide valuable information about seawater conditions during the period of shell formation. In this study, we present a practical approach to determine Pb isotopic signatures in bivalve shells as a tool for evaluating lead pollution in coastal waters. To demonstrate the applicability of the method, Pb isotopic fingerprinting in bivalve shell layers were investigated using laser ablation multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS). Lead isotope ratios (208Pb/206Pb and 206Pb/207Pb) were measured along distinct sections of the maximum growth axis of the shells. Calibration and quantification of Pb isotopes were performed using NIST 612 as reference material. Our results demonstrated that Pb isotope ratios in the shells ranged from 1.143 to 1.201 for 206Pb/207Pb and from 2.061 to 2.161 for 208Pb/206Pb. The isotopic signatures recorded in the sample shells correspond to similar ranges of Pb signatures reported for marine sediments from the same study area. In general, this work shows that LA-MC-ICP-MS is a suitable technique for determining spatially resolved lead isotopic signatures in bivalve shells and that it can be used to estimate the origin of Pb pollution in aquatic environments.
Reaction Analysis and Process Optimization with Online Infrared Data Based on Kinetic Modeling and Partial Least Squares Quantitation
Authors: Ni Liwei , Qiu Wenze , Jin Jialei , Xu Qiyue , Ye Shuliang
Published: September 2022

In-situ Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy has been recognized as an important technology for online monitoring of chemical reactions. However, analysis of the real-time IR data for identification and quantification of uncertain reactants or intermediates is often ambiguous and difficult. Here, we propose an analysis algorithm based on reaction kinetic modeling and the chemometric method of partial least squares (PLS) to comprehensively and quantitatively study reaction processes. Concentration profiles and apparent kinetic parameters can be simultaneously calculated from the spectral data, without the demand of complicated analysis on characteristic absorbance peaks or tedious sampling efforts for multivariate modeling. Paal–Knorr reactions and glyoxylic acid synthesis reactions were selected as typical reactions to validate the algorithm. A lack of fit of the Paal–Knorr reaction spectra was less than 2.5% at various conditions, and the absolute errors between the predicted values and HPLC measurement of glyoxylic acid synthesis were less than 6% during the reaction process. Moreover, the reaction kinetic models extracted from FT-IR data were used to simulate reaction processes and optimize the conditions in order to maximize product yields, which proved that this analysis method could be used for process optimization.
Chlorophyll Fluorometer for Intelligent Water Sampling by a Small Uncrewed Aircraft System (sUAS)
Authors: English Caitlyn M. , Kitzhaber Zechariah B. , Sanim Kazi Ragib I. , Kalaitzakis Michail , Kosaraju Bhanuprakash , Pinckney James L. , Hodgson Michael E. , Vitzilaios Nikolaos I. , Richardson Tammi L. , Myrick Michael L.
Published: September 2022

We describe a waterproof, lightweight (1.3 kg), low-power (∼1.1 W average power) fluorometer operating on 5 V direct current deployed on a small uncrewed aircraft system (sUAS) to measure chlorophyll and used for triggering environmental water sampling by the sUAS. The fluorometer uses a 450 nm laser modulated at 10 Hz for excitation and a standard photodiode and transimpedance amplifier for the detection of fluorescence. Additional detectors are available for measuring laser intensity and light scattering. Control of the fluorometer and communication between the fluorometer and the Raspberry Pi 4B computer controlling the sampler were provided by an Arduino microcontroller using the robot operating system (ROS). Calibrations were based on standards of dissolved chlorophyll extracted from Chlorella powder (a widely available dietary supplement). The detection limit for chlorophyll from these calibrations was found to be 0.2 μg per liter of water for a single 0.1 s differential measurement. The detection limit decreases with the square root of the integration time as expected. Detection limits increase by a factor of two to three when mounted in the sUAS due to electrical noise; sUAS acoustic noise and vibration do not appear to contribute significantly.
Improved constrained min-max optimization for MPC tracking control in industrial networked process systems
Authors: Tao Jili , Bai Yang , Chen Zhuoyi , Li Haisheng , Wu Feng
Published: September 2022

Based on a modified min-max optimization strategy, an improved design of model predictive tracking control (MPC) is proposed to guarantee the performance of industrial process control systems when the networked system suffers from communication faults. Packet losses and uncertainties exist in the networked control system, which may deteriorate the performance of the systems and even cause a safety accident. To handle with this problem, an extended state space model is utilized in the proposed MPC design for enhancing control performance firstly. Then an improved min-max optimization approach is adopted for obtaining the optimal solution of the corresponding MPC method, where two separate optimization steps are proposed to enhance the control system operation. Different from MPC strategies that employ traditional state space models, the state variables can be tuned additionally for the modified MPC design because the tracking error information and the state variables are united in the improved model. As a consequence, extra degree of freedom is acquired for the relevant MPC scheme, and then better control performance is expected. Simulations on the temperature regulation process under model/plant mismatches and packet losses are simulated to evaluate the validity of the proposed MPC method finally.
Assessing Suicidal Ideation in Young People With Depression: Factor Structure of the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire
Authors: Moller Carl I. , Badcock Paul B. , Hetrick Sarah E. , Rice Simon , Berk Michael , Dean Olivia M. , Chanen Andrew M. , Gao Caroline , Davey Christopher G. , Cotton Sue M.
Published: September 2022

Evaluating suicidal ideation in young people seeking mental health treatment is an important component of clinical assessment and treatment planning. To reduce the burden of youth suicide, we need to improve our understanding of suicidal ideation, its underlying constructs, and how ideation translates into suicidal behaviour. Using exploratory factor analysis, we investigated the dimensionality of the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire (SIQ) among 273 participants aged 15–25 with Major Depressive Disorder. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) analysis was used to explore associations between latent factors and actual suicidal behaviour. Findings suggested that the SIQ assesses multiple factors underlying suicidal ideation. AUROC analyses demonstrated that latent factors relating to both active and passive suicidal ideation predicted past-month suicidal behaviour and suicide attempt. These findings contribute to an improved understanding of the complexities of suicidal ideation and relationships with suicidal behaviour in young people with depression.
Iatrogenic Pneumothorax During Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator Implantation: A Large Database Analysis
Authors: Lorenz F. Jeffrey , Goyal Neerav
Published: September 2022

Objective

There have been case reports of adverse events of hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HNS) implantation not seen in previous clinical trials, including pneumothorax and pleural effusion. The purpose of this study was to determine the rates of these complications and potential risk factors.

Study Design

Retrospective case‐control study during 2014 to 2021.

Setting

Twenty‐five health care organizations across the United States.

Methods

The TriNetX Research Network was queried by using disease codes to retrospectively identify patients with obstructive sleep apnea who underwent HNS implantation. Rates of pneumothorax, pleural effusion, other complications, and need for revision/replacement or explant were determined.

Results

We identified 1813 patients from 25 health care organizations who underwent HNS implantation. The average age was 60 years, and there were 68% males and 32% females. Of the cohort, 2.4% (n = 44 from 7 implant centers) experienced a pneumothorax, and 0.6% (n = 11) were diagnosed with a pleural effusion on the day of surgery. Patients who experienced pneumothorax were more likely to have a history of chronic lower respiratory diseases when compared with those who did not (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1‐4.1; P = .02).

Conclusion

The incidence of intraoperative pneumothorax and pleural effusion during HNS implantation may be greater than initially thought. Patients with chronic lower respiratory diseases may be at increased risk. This should be communicated with patients during the informed consent process.
Book review: Madhushree Ghosh, Khabaar: An Immigrant Journey of Food, Memory, and Family
Authors: Chowdhury Namrata
Published: September 2022

Madhushree Ghosh, Khabaar: An Immigrant Journey of Food, Memory, and Family (Iowa City: University of Iowa Press, 2022), xiv + 194 pp.
Book review: Indudharan Menon, Hereditary Physicians of Kerala: Traditional Medicine and Ayurveda in Modern India
Authors: Rai Saurav Kumar
Published: September 2022

Indudharan Menon, Hereditary Physicians of Kerala: Traditional Medicine and Ayurveda in Modern India (London and New York, Routledge: 2019), xiii + 237 pp.
Book review: Usha Sanyal, Scholars of Faith: South Asian Muslim Women and the Embodiment of Religious Knowledge
Authors: Sumbal Saadia
Published: September 2022

Usha Sanyal, Scholars of Faith: South Asian Muslim Women and the Embodiment of Religious Knowledge (New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2020), xiv + 410 pp.
Book review: Velayutham Saravanan, Water and the Environment History of Modern India
Authors: Kumar Vikas
Published: September 2022

Velayutham Saravanan, Water and the Environment History of Modern India (London: Bloomsbury Academic, 2020), xviii + 243 pp.
Digital Transformations and the Ideological Formation of the Public Sphere: Hegemonic, Populist, or Popular Communication?
Authors: Sevignani Sebastian
Published: September 2022

This paper elaborates on a theory of the ideological public sphere in the age of digital media. It describes the public sphere as an initially ascending and then descending communication process that includes both polarising and integrating publics, which are organised by antagonistic media and compromise-building mass media. This framework allows us to distinguish between hegemonic, populist, and popular-oriented flows of communication, as well as register changes in the interplay of different publics driven by digital media platforms. Digital transformations of the public sphere give rise to antagonistic and networked-individualistic flows of populist communication that put public hegemony under constant pressure. The challenge is to find ways to strengthen popular communications that enable democratic learning processes and the flourishing of communicative competences of all citizens.
What factors explain the broadcasting of televised election debates? Empirical evidence from Germany
Authors: Maier Jürgen
Published: September 2022

Televised election debates are considered as the most important single campaign event. While a large body of research has analyzed their content, processing, impact, and media coverage, it has not yet been examined under which conditions candidates agree to debate. This is remarkable, as debates are a matter of course in only a few countries, and candidates are always renegotiating their participation with the television networks. Using a dataset covering all German federal and state elections between 1994 and 2022 ( N = 108), we demonstrate that the broadcasting of televised debates is more likely if (1) there was a debate in the last election, (2) the fragmentation of the party system is low, and (3) the race is close. Furthermore, the likelihood for debates increases over time; also, the introduction of debates on the national level has stimulated the broadcast of debates in state elections.
Construct and Structural Equivalence of the English and Spanish versions of the Authoritative School Climate Survey
Authors: Afolabi Kelvin T. , Konold Timothy R. , Maeng Jennifer
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the construct and structural equivalence of the English and Spanish versions of the authoritative school climate survey (ASCS). Measurement invariance was evaluated through increasingly restrictive tests on a sample of N = 6976 high school students, with focus on the three core ASCS scales: Students' Willingness to Seek Help, Teacher Respect for Students, and Disciplinary Structure. Results provided support for the configural, metric, and scalar invariance of these scales across versions. Because school climate is often measured through reports of student perceptions that are aggregated to the school level, these results provide an additional resource for schools looking to increase the diversity of their students’ voice through more equitable tools.
The Gendered Pathways Through Which Intimate Partner Violence Affects Health: Exploring the Role of Unmet Healthcare Needs
Authors: Moon Daseul , Sohn Minsung , Kim Jinho
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between intimate partner violence (IPV), gender, unmet healthcare needs, and health. Specifically, this study identified how unmet healthcare needs mediate the relationship between IPV and health, and how this mediation is moderated by gender. Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) ( N = 15,425), we first estimated ordinary least squares regression models to investigate the association between IPV and self-rated health. Then, we used structural equation models to examine how unmet healthcare needs mediate this relationship. Lastly, we conducted a moderated mediation model to investigate whether gender moderates these mediation patterns. The results of this study showed that experiencing IPV was associated with a decrease in self-rated health and an increase in the unmet need for medical care (but not in unmet need for routine health check-ups). Unmet need for medical care explained about one-quarter of the negative association between IPV and self-rated health. A moderated mediation model revealed that indirect effects of IPV on health via unmet medical care needs were more pronounced among victimized women than victimized men. This study filled knowledge gaps about the mechanisms underlying the association between IPV and poor health status. Unmet healthcare needs partially mediated the relationship between IPV victimization and health. This mechanism was more salient for the health of victimized women than victimized men. Interventions designed to improve the health of IPV victims may focus on addressing unmet healthcare needs and could be tailored according to the gender of patients.
Development and Interrater Reliability of the Lactation Assessment Care Tool
Authors: Wessells Allyson , Chertok Ilana R. A. , Haile Zelalem T. , Johnston Jarold
Published: September 2022

Background:

There have been no comprehensive predictive measurement instruments published that account for the dynamic interaction between maternal, infant, and functional factors related to breastfeeding difficulty. The Lactation Care Assessment Tool (LACT) was developed by the authors as a predictive measure of lactation acuity to identify families at risk for breastfeeding difficulty and facilitate access to the most effective level of care.

Research Aim:

To describe the development, content validation, and interrater reliability of the LACT.

Methods:

This study was a cross-sectional, online survey. Upon reading a standardized case scenario reflective of common experiences among families with goals to breastfeed, participants ( N = 82) anonymously completed the LACT, which consisted of 16 measures based upon research relevant to maternal, infant, and functional factors affecting breastfeeding success. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize and describe the characteristics of the study sample. Interrater reliability was evaluated using Krippendorff’s alpha.

Results:

An acceptable degree of interrater reliability ( α = 0.70) among participants was detected for the 16 measures included in the instrument.

Conclusion:

This instrument supports Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative Step 10 to facilitate more precise and timely continuity of care after discharge from the hospital by identifying families in need of referral to a level of care consistent with their lactation acuity. Future research is necessary to determine appropriate levels of care and support based on the instrument scores in diverse breastfeeding dyads during early lactation and through the duration of breastfeeding.
Incidence and risk factors for syphilis infection among men who have sex with men: A cohort study from an urban sexual health clinic in Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Kawi Nurhayati H , Sihotang Erik P , Nisa Tiara , Hui Ben , Causer Louise M , Januraga Pande Putu , Ronoatmodjo Sudarto
Published: September 2022

Objective: Syphilis infection remains a significant health issue among marginalised populations in Indonesia, in particular among men who have sex with men (MSM), in whom there are limited studies from Indonesia exploring risk factors associated with STI acquisition.Our study aimed to identify risk factors of syphilis infection among MSM attending large sexual health clinic in Jakarta. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using patient records (MSM aged 18 years or older) period Jan 2018-Dec 2019. We used Cox regression to identify risk factors associated with syphilis incidence. Results: Study population were 2912 MSM tested for syphilis, 473 (16.2%) were diagnosed with syphilis on their first visit; early syphilis (415; 14%) and latent syphilis (58, 2%). Among the cohort of 2439 MSM who tested negative at baseline, 40 MSM were identified with a new positive syphilis result during 2 years follow up. Risk factors remaining significantly associated with syphilis incidence included having STI symptom at 1st visit (aHR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.38–5.65), and HIV-infection (aHR 4.53; 95% CI 2.24 – 9.17).Syphilis incidence rate was 8.19 (95% CI 6.01-11.16) per 100 PYFU. Conclusions: Syphilis infection at baseline and incidence was high among MSM attending this large clinic in Jakarta. Integrated and accessible syphilis prevention and detection coupled with HIV services are needed, with a special focus on high-risk individuals.
COVID-19 Vaccination in Cancer Patients: A Review Article
Authors: Mekkawi Rana , Elkattan Bassant A. , Shablak Alaaeldin , Bakr Mohammad , Yassin Mohamed A. , Omar Nabil E.
Published: September 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Adults with cancer are immunocompromised due to several causes including cancer itself and immunosuppressive therapy. Thus, cancer patients are more susceptible to develop COVID-19 infection. As COVID-19 vaccines became available, patients with cancer would benefit from receiving the vaccine. This article aims to review the recent evidences and recommendations about COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients.

Current guidelines recommend that patients with cancer should have the priority to receive the vaccine given their immunocompromised state. The timing of administration varies depending on cancer type and treatment. Generally, the vaccine should be given before starting the chemotherapy if possible or in between chemotherapy cycles and away from nadir phase. For other cancer treatments, it is recommended to give the vaccine when there is evidence of blood count recovery. In general, induction therapy and treatment for newly diagnosed patients should not be delayed for the vaccination purpose. It is noteworthy to mention that cancer patients especially those with hematologic malignancies might have absented or attenuated response to the vaccine due to their pathophysiological status.

On the other hand, the current vaccine guidelines have been criticized for lacking evidence on some important topics that need to be addressed. Firstly, some vaccines have been granted an emergency use authorization, prior to the usual comprehensive safety and efficacy evaluation process. Secondly, specific populations including cancer patients were excluded from the approval trials for safety reasons. Finally, some recommendations regarding the COVID-19 vaccines are extrapolated from other vaccines studies. Further studies are required to fill these gaps and observational studies that include cancer patients are warranted to have a better understanding of the safety and efficacy of the vaccines in cancer patients.
Attitudes to and Experiences of Physical Activity After Colon Cancer Diagnosis Amongst Physically Active Individuals – A Qualitative Study
Authors: Renman David , Strigård Karin , Palmqvist Richard , Näsvall Pia , Gunnarsson Ulf , Edin-Liljegren Anette
Published: September 2022

Background

Physical activity improves survival, reduces postoperative complications, and reduces the risk of developing colon cancer. It is important to maintain physical activity after receiving a diagnosis of colon cancer to improve postoperative recovery. Individuals who are physically active and diagnosed with colon cancer presumably have different motivations to maintain physical activity compared to their sedentary counterparts.

Objective

Enlighten how the diagnosis of colon cancer might affect physically active individuals in their attitude and experiences towards physical activity.

Methods

A qualitative study using content analysis was conducted in northern Sweden based on semi-structured telephone interviews of twenty patients diagnosed with colon cancer. All participants met the recommendations for physical activity issued by the World Health Organization.

Results

Participants were between 50 and 88 years and 50% were male. Three main categories were identified: I’ll fight the cancer and come out stronger; The diagnosis makes no difference; and The diagnosis is an obstacle for physical activity. These main categories represent the ways the individuals reacted to the diagnosis of colon cancer regarding their physical activity.

Conclusion

Attitudes to and experience of physical activity after colon cancer diagnosis varied from a will to increase physical activity and fight the cancer, to the diagnosis putting a stop to physical activity. It is important that healthcare professionals recommend physical activity even in already physically active individuals, to encourage continued physical activity after diagnosis of colon cancer.
Switching to daratumumab SC from IV is safe and preferred by patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Mateos Maria-Victoria , Rigaudeau Sophie , Basu Supratik , Spicka Ivan , Schots Rik , Wrobel Tomasz , Cook Gordon , Beksac Meral , Gries Katharine S , Kudva Anupa , Tromp Brenda , Van Rampelbergh Rian , Pei Huiling , Wroblewski Susan , Carson Robin , Delioukina Maria , White Darrell
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Two phase 3 studies demonstrated superior efficacy of intravenous daratumumab (DARA IV) plus bortezomib/melphalan/prednisone (ALCYONE) or lenalidomide/dexamethasone (Rd; MAIA) versus standard-of-care regimens for transplant-ineligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. In these studies, patients could switch from DARA IV to subcutaneous daratumumab (DARA SC) while receiving daratumumab monotherapy in ALCYONE (as of Cycle 11) or daratumumab plus Rd in MAIA. The phase 3 COLUMBA study demonstrated noninferiority of DARA SC to DARA IV. DARA SC reduced administration time, allowing patients to spend less time in healthcare settings, a relevant practical consideration for patient care in the COVID-19 pandemic/settings of limited healthcare resources.

Methods

DARA SC 1800 mg was administered every 4 weeks, per approved dosing schedules. We evaluated safety and patient-reported experience (ALCYONE only) among patients who switched from DARA IV to DARA SC.

Results

Fifty-seven patients in ALCYONE and 135 in MAIA switched to DARA SC. Three (2.2%; MAIA) patients reported injection-site reactions, all of which were mild. No infusion-related reactions occurred with DARA SC. In ALCYONE, >80% of patients preferred DARA SC over DARA IV. Grade 3/4 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 5.3% of patients in ALCYONE and 25.9% in MAIA; one (0.7%; MAIA) patient experienced a TEAE with an outcome of death.

Conclusion

For transplant-ineligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, DARA SC (monotherapy/with Rd) was safe and preferred over DARA IV. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02195479/NCT02252172.
Infusible thermoplastic resin based sandwich structures for wind blade applications and the influence of scrim on facesheet to core interface debonding
Authors: Arwood Zachariah , Young Stephen , Penumadu Dayakar
Published: September 2022

Infusible thermoplastic Elium® family of resins from Arkema have garnered much attention in recent years as a possible replacement for thermoset resins in laminate and sandwich composite manufacturing for wind blade applications due to its ease of recyclability and the ability to utilize existing manufacturing processes without imposing complicated variations. However, physical and mechanical properties of the proposed Elium® based thermoplastic composites must be comparable to existing epoxy (thermoset) based composites using manufacturing processes relevant for large wind turbine blades. A 13-meter-long demonstration blade was manufactured for that purpose and sandwich samples were obtained from that project for a detailed study. This paper details three-point flexural properties of unidirectional E-glass fiber reinforced acrylic and epoxy based sandwich panels with identical balsa wood core materials. In addition, to evaluate the relative merit considering debond failure mode, the interfacial critical strain energy release rate, predominantly in mode-1, was compared via single cantilever beam testing. In sandwich composites constructed with balsa wood core material, resin uptake by the balsa core is traditionally impeded via the insertion of a scrim material at the facesheet to core interface. Results revealed that inclusion of scrim mesh layer at the facesheet to core interface reduced flexural properties and strain energy release rates in panels infused with acrylic resin but did not significantly reduce these properties in epoxy infused facesheets.
Leptomeningeal Metastasis Mimicking a Subacute Epidural Hematoma: Case Report
Authors: Amal Lahfidi , Wend-Yam Mohamed Traore , Kaoutar Imrani , Hounayda Jerguigue , Rachida Latib , Youssef Omor
Published: September 2022

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is extremely rare in colorectal adenocarcinoma, its incidence is far less than 1%. The neurological symptoms are pleomorphic. The most common symptoms included Headache, ataxia, cranial nerve palsies, meningismus, focal weakness or numbness. MRI is the most sensitive and specific imaging method for screening, positive diagnosis and pre-treatment of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis. The presence of appropriate neuroimaging abnormalities in a patient with typical clinical features and history of colorectal adenocarcinoma enables to make the diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastases. As well as a biological confirmation is necessary. Treatment usually comprises site-specific radiation therapy in addition to intrathecal and systemic chemotherapy.

The case aims to describe the MRI characteristics of leptomeningeal metastases so as to formulate the diagnosis and the subsequent treatment.
Twin Brothers and a Sister With CD: A Case Report
Authors: Telaku Skender , Veliu Arber , Sina Marsela , Telaku Mimoza , Fejza Hajrullah , Alidema Fitim
Published: September 2022

Crohn’s disease (CD) has an unknown etiology, but it has a genetic component. Many cases of familial CD have been reported. We describe a Kosovar Albanian family with 6 children, of whom 3 have CD: monozygotic twins and their sister. As far as we know, this is the first such report of CD within a Kosovar family.