bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite element modelling of the elastic and dynamic behaviour of nonwoven flax/polypropylene composite
Authors: Hadiji Hajer , Zouari Wajdi , Assarar Mustapha , Zouari Bassem , Ayad Rezak , Behlouli Karim
Published: March 2023

2D and 3D finite element models of nonwoven flax/polypropylene composite are developed in this work to estimate its elastic and dynamic properties. These models are based on an in-plane random generation of the nonwoven flax fibres embedded in 2D and 3D networks of polypropylene (PP) matrix with porosities. First, the elastic properties of the flax/PP nonwoven composite are numerically predicted and a comparison with the experimental results from tensile tests is conducted. Second, the dynamic properties resulted from free vibration tests, at different fibre weight ratios and porosity contents, are numerically determined. Finally, the flax fibre damping is predicted using the strain energy method and the finite element results. This allows proposing a first estimation of the damping coefficient of this natural fibre.
Evaluating the Consequential Validity of the Research-Based Early Mathematics Assessment
Authors: Dong Yixiao , Dumas Denis , Clements Douglas H. , Day-Hess Crystal A. , Sarama Julie
Published: March 2023

Consequential validity (often referred to as “test fairness” in practice) is an essential aspect of educational measurement. This study evaluated the consequential validity of the Research-Based Early Mathematics Assessment (REMA). A sample of 627 children from PreK to second grade was collected using the short form of the REMA. We conducted two sets of analyses with different foci (item- or scale-level) for validation: differential item functioning (DIF) and consequential validity ratio (CVR) analyses. The analyses focused on the demographic subgroups of gender, English Language Learner status, and race/ethnicity. We found a low percentage of DIF items (less than 3%) and high CVRs (ranging from 96 to 98%). Both findings support the consequential validity and thus “fairness” of the REMA.
A novel and practical care process framework to inform model of care development
Authors: Meadows Donna , Maclaren Joanne , Morton Alec , Ross Darcy
Published: March 2023

Breaking free of pre-existing assumptions to achieve transformative change in care delivery remains challenging. This article presents a care process framework using a rapid task analysis tested with healthcare teams across five communities in British Columbia, Canada, to provide leaders a novel and practical approach to care model development. The study’s goals were to determine if the framework was replicable even though the population care needs differed for each community. The results showed the framework was replicable, informed the care model development, and identified ideal scopes of practice and team composition given the context of care. The framework also captured expert tacit knowledge and decision-making to build capacity given our current workforce challenges. For operational leaders and government agencies, the use of the framework may influence a shift in historical approaches that better aligns health and human resources capacity to population health and service needs.
“SHE CAN GET A VISA”: How Nationality and Class Shape Decision Making at a Kenyan NGO
Authors: Harrigan Shaquilla
Published: March 2023

Prior studies show how race, class, and gender matter for worker identities within organizations, but there is an opportunity to focus on worker nationality and class background within nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Using evidence from ethnographic fieldwork, in-depth interviews, and organizational documents at a small NGO in Kenya, I show how nationality and class mediate how NGO workers assign and accomplish organizational tasks. My results suggest that a process of elastic transnational stratification determines how nationality and class distribute tasks and decision-making power in relation to the location and organizational domain in which they must act. While both nationality and class are used as proxies for one’s proximity to power and influence, there are instances where less privileged identities are more strategic to deploy. Nationality and class shape access to various development spaces, the amount and type of resources one can attain on behalf of the organization, and legitimacy locally and at the global level.
Synthesis and characterization of gamma irradiated polyvinyl chloride/graphite carbon nitride nanocomposite films for electronic applications
Authors: Sharaf A , Elhady MA , Abdel-Galil A , Eladl Sh M , Nasr A
Published: March 2023

This study introduces the synthesis of graphite-carbon nitrite (g-C3N4) using thermal treatment of urea. The prepared powder is treated to generate nanoparticles. The structure and grain size of the g-C3N4 have been obtained via X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique and transmission electron microscope. The graphite-carbon nitride on Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC/g-C3N4) nanocomposite films were produced by mixing different concentrations (0, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 20 wt%) of nanoparticles with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) solutions. The structure and elemental composition of the prepared nanocomposites films PVC/g-C3N4 were studied by using XRD, scanning electron microscope (SEM), (EDX), infrared spectroscopy (IR) and electron spin resonance (ESR). Also, spectral distribution of the optical absorbance for the PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposites films was studied in the wavelength range from 190 to 1100 nm. Thermal stability of the investigated nanocomposites films was investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis technique (TGA). The effect of various concentrations of the g-C3N4 and different doses of gamma-rays on the polymeric matrix and electrical properties of PVC film also has been investigated. The g-C3N4 additives on PVC influenced the crystal structure and optical properties of the nanocomposites films. The nanocomposite film with 10% g-C3N4 achieved higher values of the refractive index and optical conductivity compared with the other films. With different doses of gamma-ray irradiation, the crystal structure and optical properties of PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite films were changed in accordance to the cross-linking process within the PVC polymeric chains where a structural rearrangement can be occurred as a result of gamma irradiation. The elemental composition and morphological study of PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite films have been checked by the scanning electron microscopy which indicated the homogeneous dispersion of g-C3N4 nanoparticles within PVC network. Finally, electrical properties of PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite films with different ratios and distinct gamma doses also have been studied.
For the Sake of Ourself: Eudaimonism, Friendship, and the Problem of Proprietary Beatitude
Authors: Verner Dominic
Published: March 2023

In this article, I defend Thomistic eudaimonism against John Hare's Kantian charge of unacceptable self-regard, and argue that Hare's own Scotistic-Kantian double-source theory of motivation introduces a problematic conception of beatitude. Hare argues that the beatitude which motivates the will in Thomistic eudaimonism is a self-indexed good, which cannot motivate truly altruistic action. Hare fails to recognize that the beatitude that ultimately motivates the human will according to Thomas can be an ‘ourself-indexed’ rather than merely a ‘myself-indexed’ good, as the love of friendship brings other selves into the will's self-intention, facilitating a truly intersubjective and communal beatitude. Rejecting beatitude as the sole motivation of the will, Hare proposes a Scotistic double-source theory of motivation where the beatitude of another and the agent's own beatitude can never be loved with one and the same affection of the will, rendering beatitude unacceptably exclusive and proprietary. By making this argument, I hope to show that contemporary debates concerning moral motivation should carefully consider whether they can account for the intersubjective beatitude that bolsters human solidarity and forms the object of hope given by Christ who wills that his joy may be in us.
Fault-related feature discrimination network for cell partitioning and defect classification in real-time solar panel manufacturing
Authors: Rajeshkanna R. , Meikandan M. , Daxayani C. , Ganesh Kumar P.
Published: March 2023

During the production of energy using photovoltaic (PV) panels, solar cells may be affected by different environmental aspects, which cause many defects in the solar cells. Such defects should be identified and categorized to improve energy productivity. Most recent studies developed many deep learning models to categorize solar cell defects, whereas tiny defects were not categorized due to the blurry and overlapping edges. Hence, this paper develops an effective deep-learning model of cell partitioning and defect classification to satisfy the criteria for solar panel manufacturing monitoring. At first, the low-resolution solar cell images are enriched into super-resolved images using the improved super-resolved adversarial network. Then, those images are passed to the novel deep feature discrimination network, which extracts fault-related characteristics from the solar cell images. Those characteristics are further fed to the softmax classifier to categorize the defected or non-defected solar cell images. Moreover, a new mixture of error functions is used for fine-tuning and rapid convergence. Further, a detection bias and compensation in missed faults that limit the model accuracy are found to be unaffected by the categorization of defected/non-defected panels in a real-time manufacturing unit. Finally, assigning certain forecasting standards for various faults categories, the overall test analysis using solar cell images on 5 days exhibits that the presented model attains a maximum accuracy of 99.91% compared to the classical deep learning models. So, this model has a high probability to be used in a real manufacturing unit.
The relationship between cooking fuel and health status from the perspective of income heterogeneity: Evidence from China
Authors: Yang Zhiming , Zhuang Xijie , Li Jiuling , Zhang Guanghui , Zhang Yunquan , Fu Lifu , Li Chengyou
Published: March 2023

The health risks of cooking with solid fuels are widespread, especially among low-income people. Therefore, we decide to explore the impact of cooking fuel on the physical and mental health of Chinese residents and the heterogeneity of effects across income groups. This study estimates the potential relationship between household air pollution and health status by using data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS). Household air pollution is measured by different types of cooking fuels, and health status is evaluated from the perspective of respondents’ self-ratings of health, mental health, and interviewer-assessed health. The data comprises more than 100,000 samples between 2012 and 2019. We employ a Hierarchical Linear Model to infer the potential impact of household air pollution caused by cooking fuel on residents’ health. After adjusting control variables, we find cleaner cooking fuels such as solar energy and biogas are more conducive to residents’ health status. Our findings manifest that cleaner fuels and lower exposure to household air pollution are better for residents’ health. Low-income households are more likely to be affected by household air pollution. This study emphasizes the consequence of the potential health effects on residents due to household air pollution from cooking fuels and the uneven distribution of those effects. It is recommended that such factors as household air pollution risks, health, and environmental fairness and justice should be considered in the policy formulation process.
Believing Asylum-Seeking Women: Doing Gender in Legal Narratives of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
Authors: Stepnitz Abigail
Published: March 2023

In this article I seek to expand the understanding of what it means to credibly “do gender” for women seeking asylum in the United States. I present an empirical analysis of documents related to 30 women's affirmative asylum claims in the US from 2001–2018, which centre experiences of sexual and gender-based violence. My analysis reveals how women's credibility is achieved interactionally and institutionally when their written narratives and interview interactions reflect culturally salient and organizationally-embedded ideas about trauma and memory, culture and violence and, thresholds of harm. I demonstrate how credibility is refracted through these deeply gendered legal and cultural lenses, and how law and gender, in interaction, reframe and reconstitute the meaning of individual actions and narratives, producing and reinforcing a limited range of credible stories about gender-based violence that these women can tell.
Autism and the draft mental health bill in England and Wales: Unintended consequences?
Authors: Beazley Peter I , Dewson Helen , Butler Michael , Le Marquand Simon
Published: March 2023

The Draft Mental Health Bill for England and Wales proposes a range of changes to the Mental Health Act 1983. Among these is a proposal to amend the definition of ‘Mental Disorder’, which would mean that people with a primary diagnosis of autism or learning disability would be excluded from most of the civil sections of the Act. If enacted, this will be the first occasion in English and Welsh law where a legal definition of autism is created. While we argue that there are inherent difficulties in creating legal definitions of clinical problems, this ‘legal Autism’ appears to be substantially disconnected from a clinical understanding of autism, and its breadth could potentially encompass conditions beyond those currently identified as autism. Moreover, numerous potential unwanted practical consequences may arise from these changes, partly because of uncertainty about the legal position of presentations that share features with autism, uncertainty about the process of assessment of ‘legal Autism’, and potential perverse incentives placed on local authorities. We argue that particular groups of people likely to be impacted by these changes are those who not only present with profound clinical impairments, but also who pose significant risks to others. We urge serious consideration is given to these issues in the legal debate of the Bill.
Pathways, Contexts, and Voices of Shame and Compassion: A Grounded Theory of the Evolution of Perinatal Suicidality
Authors: Biggs Laura J. , Jephcott Bonnie , Vanderwiel Kim , Melgaard Imogen , Bott Shannon , Paderes Mitzi , Borninkhof Julie , Birks Melanie
Published: March 2023

There is an urgent need to generate deeper understandings of how suicidality manifests and evolves during pregnancy and the following year. Several perinatal studies have examined the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviours and associated social and obstetric risk factors; however, there is very limited research offering insights into women’s experiences of suicidality at this time in their lives. This study aimed to generate a theory to explain how suicidality evolves in the perinatal period. A grounded theory design was used with data generated using anonymous online surveys (119 participants) and in-depth interviews (20 participants) with women who received pregnancy care in the past 5 years in Australia. The developed theory holds shame as a core concept. Origins and contexts of shame reflect current epidemiological understandings of risk for perinatal suicide, including experiences of gender-based violence, adverse childhood experiences, and a history of mental health difficulties. When women feel that they are defective, are unworthy of love and belonging, and do not possess what it takes to be a good mother, they can conclude that their family is better off without them. Pathways beyond shame were facilitated by compassionate and rehumanising care from family, friends, and care providers. Findings demonstrate that perinatal suicidality is a complex multidimensional phenomenon, influenced by socio-cultural expectations of motherhood and interpersonal, systemic, and intergenerational experiences of trauma. Increasing the prominence of perinatal suicide prevention within health professional education and practice, and addressing systemic barriers to compassionate health care are critical first steps to addressing perinatal suicide.
Effects of Digital Pedagogical Skills of Mathematics Teachers on Academic Performance
Authors: Joshi Dirgha Raj , Khanal Bishnu , Adhikari Krishna Prasad
Published: March 2023

The study aimed to measure the effect of digital pedagogical skills of mathematics teachers and their awareness on student learning performance. The cross-sectional survey design was used among 462 mathematics teachers in Nepal. Structural equation modeling and machine learning were the main statistical techniques used in the study. The findings indicate that teachers’ digital pedagogical skills were significantly low in internet surfing, using communication tools, subject-related applications, and the development of audiovisual instructional materials. Internet surfing skills and collaboration tools are significant predictors of policy and ethical digital awareness.
Research on dynamic characteristics of a novel triple-magnet magnetic suspension dynamic vibration absorber
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu , Leng Yonggang , Fan Shengbo , Su Xukun , Sun Shuailing , Xu Junjie , Sun Fei
Published: March 2023

A novel Triple-magnet Magnetic Suspension Dynamic Vibration Absorber is designed and modeled in this paper. The equivalent dynamic model of the Triple-magnet Magnetic Suspension Dynamic Vibration Absorber vibration reduction system is established. Meanwhile, the calculation model of the nonlinear magnetic suspension force is derived. Based on the force model, it is found that the nonlinear stiffness feature can be adjusted by changing the magnet distance of the Triple-magnet Magnetic Suspension Dynamic Vibration Absorber. Then the dynamic equations of the vibration reduction system are solved by using the Complex Variable Average method. And the correctness of the derivation procedure is verified through the Runge–Kutta method. From the numerical solutions, bifurcation phenomena occur in the system responses when the excitation amplitude is larger than a certain value. Adjusting the magnet distance and the damping coefficient of the Triple-magnet Magnetic Suspension Dynamic Vibration Absorber can delay or avoid bifurcation behaviors. When the excitation amplitude varies over a wide range, the Triple-magnet Magnetic Suspension Dynamic Vibration Absorber with a larger magnet distance and damping coefficient shows better vibration reduction performance. This study provides a theoretical basis for the practical application of the Triple-magnet Magnetic Suspension Dynamic Vibration Absorber and new ideas for controlling the bifurcation of traditional nonlinear dynamic vibration absorbers.
Secondary, security threat, and sage: eulogy effect and the framing of female politicians as political martyrs in the elite press of South Asia
Authors: Rasul Azmat , McDowell Stephen D , Rasul Muhammad E
Published: March 2023

How do newspapers frame female politicians, and does this framing change after a female politician's death during an election campaign? Benazir Bhutto, who served two terms as prime minister of Pakistan, was assassinated in 2007 by a terrorist group. South Asian newspapers framed her as corrupt, inefficient, and a threat to national security before her death; however, the elite press characterized her as a martyr and sage posthumously. Using qualitative content analysis, this study examines the editorial coverage of two newspapers ( The Hindu and The Times of India) in India and two newspapers ( The News and The Dawn) in Pakistan to examine how these elite newspapers framed Benazir Bhutto before and after her tragic death. We found that the framing of the slain leader changed from negative to positive after her assassination. The study concludes that her assassination influenced the media coverage and produced a eulogy effect that helped her party stay in power after her assassination.
The experience I will remember: The role of tourist personality, motivation, and destination personality
Authors: Tešin Aleksandra , Kovačić Sanja , Obradović Sanja
Published: March 2023

Providing memorable experiences is considered very effective strategy for gaining a sustainable competitive advantage. Memorable tourism experience (MTE) is still a relatively novel concept, hence its antecedents and outcomes are not completely identified. The primary goal of this research was to explore tourist personality and travel motivation as antecedents and the perceived destination personality, satisfaction, and revisit intention as outcomes of an MTE. The study was conducted on a sample of 614 foreign visitors to three biggest urban destinations in Serbia (Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Nis). For testing hypothesis, SEM (structural equation modelling) was applied. The results show that personality trait openness to experience and motivational factor knowledge and experience showed the strongest influence on MTEs. Also, all seven dimensions of memorable experience affected perceived destination personality. Practical implications and potential future research approaches are also highlighted in the conclusion.
Effects of using WeChat/WhatsApp on physical and psychosocial health outcomes among oncology patients: A systematic review
Authors: Zou Ping , Huang Amy , Luo Yan , Tchakerian Natalie , Zhang Hui , Zhang Chunmei
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize the potential effects of the WeChat and WhatsApp mobile applications in cancer management. This systematic review was written in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. CINAHL, PubMed, ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Database, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, and ERIC were utilized for the literature search. Articles were included if they evaluated the outcomes of using WeChat/WhatsApp for cancer management, and excluded if they were qualitative studies, not published in peer-reviewed journals, protocols for a future study, or conference abstracts. 20 studies were included in this systematic review, with a total sample of 3110 participants. Interventions were utilized to share educational information with participants, follow-up after surgical operations, and in clinical communication. Outcomes, including pain, medication adherence, self-efficacy, quality of life, and depression, were statistically significantly improved in the WeChat/WhatsApp intervention groups in comparison to the control groups or to baseline measurements of the study participants. Outcomes of sleep and rehospitalization rate were improved without reaching statistical significance. Outcomes of anxiety, fatigue, and adverse drug reactions were found to be conflictive among included studies. This systematic review suggested that use of WeChat/WhatsApp on cancer management might improve various physical and psychosocial health outcomes among oncological patients. Limitations of the study include solely reviewing English language articles published in academic journals and most of the studies being from one country. Future research should be conducted in various countries among diverse communities, including rural areas, to ascertain the effects of WeChat/WhatsApp in different populations.
Simplifying placement of bonded retainers
Authors: Makwana Meeral , Murray Alison
Published: March 2023

The placement of bonded retainers can be daunting to the inexperienced clinician. The aim of the present article was to share a simple means of using everyday intermaxillay elastics to effortlessly secure the wire, allowing the clinician to easily complete placement of the bonded retainer. The challenge of manipulating the wire, etch, bond and composite simultaneously is thus alleviated! A step-by-step explanation is provided.
More than participatory? From ‘compensatory’ towards ‘expressive’ remote practices using digital technologies
Authors: Börner Susanne , Kraftl Peter , Giatti Leandro L
Published: March 2023

Based on the shift from face-to-face participatory action research (PAR) with groups in situations of vulnerability to digital methods during COVID-19, we reflect on how we can go beyond compensating for the physical absence of the researcher from the field. We argue that instead of simply aiming to replace face-to-face research with a digital equivalent for maintaining ‘participatory’ and ‘inclusive’ research practices, remote practices have the potential of being more-than compensatory. We suggest that when producing multi-method digital approaches, we need to go beyond a concern with participant access to remote practices. By rethinking remote PAR in the light of expressive rather than participatory research practices, we critically reflect on the (sometimes experimental) process of trying out different digital research method(s) with Brazilian youth in situations of digital marginalisation, including the initial ‘failures’ and lessons learned in encouraging diverse forms of participant expression, and ownership using WhatsApp.
May we take the test as a group? Examining group processes and member learning in a collaborative testing environment
Authors: Bozeman Rayne , Mallett Robyn K , Mitchell Linas , Tindale R Scott
Published: March 2023

Two-phase testing assesses individual performance (phase 1) and then allows collaborative learning within small groups (phase 2). While groups typically outperform individuals, less is known about the social decision schemes that influence member collaboration. In a classroom setting, we compared individual and group performance on a standard test versus a two-phase test (Study 1 n = 180, Study 2 n = 60) to determine the impact of collaborative testing on recalling factual and application based test items. We also assessed various aspects of group dynamics (e.g. liking). Both studies showed several benefits to collaborative testing with few costs: students enjoyed collaborative testing and the performance benefits were stronger for lower scoring students and integrative versus factual test items.
Braun Anastomosis: A Technique for Bile Reflux Improvement After Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) Bypass; a Pilot Study
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Vahid , Haghighat Neda , Kamran Hooman , Arianpour Hooman , Vahidi Abtin , Hesameddini Iman , Zaid Akool Mohammed Abd , Moeinvaziri Nader
Published: March 2023

Background. Single anastomotic surgeries can increase the risk of reflux, marginal ulceration, and gastrointestinal complications. Braun anastomosis prevents bile reflux after gastric resection and gastrojejunal anastomosis surgeries. The present pilot study evaluated Braun’s efficacy in a single anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass surgery.

Methods. 28 patients with a history of SASI bypass surgery from October 2017 to September 2021 were included in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on having Braun anastomosis to this surgical procedure; group A: underwent SASI bypass without Braun anastomosis; group B: underwent SASI bypass with Braun anastomosis. The surgical complications in terms of bile reflux, marginal ulcer, reflux esophagitis, and gastritis were evaluated and compared between the groups. Results. Bile reflux and reflux esophagitis were seen more in group A than in group B (37.5% vs 8.3% and 18.8% vs 8.3%, respectively). In contrast, 2 patients (16.7%) in group B had marginal ulcers compared to 1 (6.3%) in group A. Also, gastritis was seen in 1 patient in each group (6.3% in group A vs 8.3% in group B). However, the differences were not statistically different. Conclusions. Braun anastomosis is probably an effective procedure to reduce bile reflux, a concern of SASI bypass. Besides, further studies with a larger study population are needed.
Health discussion network characteristics among a sample of people with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Rohde Jacob A. , Saffer Adam J. , Zhao Xinyan
Published: March 2023

Objectives

This study examined the health discussion networks (HDNs) of people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We sought to test if HDN characteristics were associated with IBD management self-efficacy outcomes.

Methods

We recruited a sample of adults with IBD ( N = 112) in December 2020 to take an online survey. Participants listed up to five people (alters) who they discussed their health with, and we used those data to construct individual HDNs. Participants provided demographic information about alters, and characterized alter by relationship, closeness, and support provided. We used multivariable regression to examine associations of HDN characteristics with IBD symptoms, remission, and emotions management self-efficacy outcomes.

Results

Participants reported data for 412 alters (mean HDN size: 3.68). Alters were mostly friends (40%) or family members (36%); few were healthcare workers (6%). In multivariable analyses, HDN size was associated with remission and emotions management self-efficacy ( ps < .05), and the amount of support offered by alters was associated with emotions management self-efficacy ( p < .05).

Discussion

HDN size and alter support variables were associated with some IBD management self-efficacy outcomes among our study sample. These findings provide empirical evidence about HDNs among people with IBD and support the notion that disease management is a collective effort.
Extending infection prevention and control nursing (IPCN) provision to weekends at one National Health Service hospital in the United Kingdom: A feasibility and acceptability study
Authors: Brueton Valerie , Mooney Lorraine , Wigglesworth Neil
Published: March 2023

Background

Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Teams (IPCTs) provide clinical cover during weekdays with on call support at weekends. We report the results of a 6-month pilot of extending infection prevention and control nursing (IPCN) clinical cover to weekends at one National Health Service trust in the United Kingdom.

Methods

We examined daily episodes of infection prevention and control (IPC) clinical advice given before and during the pilot of extended IPCN to weekends. Stakeholders rated the value, impact, and their awareness of the new extended IPCN cover.

Results

Episodes of clinical advice given were more evenly distributed across the weeks during the pilot. Advantages for infection management, patient flow, and clinical workload were seen.

Conclusions

IPCN clinical cover at weekends is feasible and valued by stakeholders.
The Effects of Prescribed Dry Season Burning on Woody Species Composition, Mole National Park, Ghana
Authors: Amoako Esther Ekua , Issifu Hamza , Husseini Rikiatu
Published: March 2023

Fire use in protected savannas of Africa is a common practice. Fires in these savannas create many environmental benefits, such as reducing grass, brush and trees that can fuel large and severe wildfires and improving wildlife habitat. However, wrong timing of fire can threaten plants, animals and habitats. This study investigated the effects of time of burning on woody plant composition, diversity and density in the Mole National Park, Ghana. A total of twelve 300 m2 plots were systematically sampled in a 200 m × 200 m treatment plot established by Park Management each for early burn, late burn and no-burn plots. Twenty-seven different woody species belonging to fourteen families were recorded in all the treatments. Most of the species identified belonged to the families Fabaceae and Combretaceae. Vitellaria paradoxa (Shea), Terminalia avicennioides, Combretum adenogonium and Combretum molle were the most common and abundant in all treatments. A TWINSPAN on sites and species revealed four species groups based on affinity to burning time. A follow-up DCA showed a strong association between burning time and species composition, with the first two axes explaining 65% of variation. The late burn and no-burn treatments recorded the lowest diversity amongst the three treatments. Stem density was highest in no-burn treatment which had lowest species richness and diversity compared to early and late burn treatments. Early burn treatment had the highest diversity and the lowest density of woody species. The study revealed that the different times of prescribed burning influenced vegetation differently. Prescribed early dry season burning could contribute to the management of indigenous woody species in protected fire-prone savannas, because it can promote the diversity of species, as found in the Mole National Park in the Guinea savanna of Ghana.
Brachial Artery Vasospasm From Sequential Use of Intravenous Promethazine and Dihydroergotamine for Treatment of Status Migrainosus: A Case Report
Authors: Johns Christopher , Ardakani Rumyar , Das Rohit R. , Friedman Deborah I. , Frolov Alexander
Published: March 2023

Promethazine, a common antiemetic, can cause severe tissue injury with intravenous (IV) injection. Dihydroergotamine (DHE), commonly used for the acute treatment of migraine, can cause arterial vasoconstriction. We report a rare complication of brachial artery vasospasm in a patient receiving IV promethazine and DHE sequentially through the same midline IV catheter. A 40-year-old woman with history of migraine headaches and Raynaud phenomenon was admitted for treatment of status migrainosus with scheduled IV DHE infusions. While receiving the DHE infusions, IV promethazine was added to the patient’s regimen to treat nausea. During an infusion of DHE, the patient developed acute pain near the catheter insertion site due to active extravasation of IV DHE. An arterial Doppler ultrasound demonstrated stenosis in the right brachial artery near the region of infusion. The patient ultimately required balloon angioplasty and intra-arterial injection of nitroglycerin to restore adequate blood flow. We hypothesize that caustic injury to the right brachial vein from IV promethazine predisposed the patient to the extravasation of DHE, which, in turn, caused adjacent brachial artery vasospasm. This case suggests the need for careful consideration, if not strict avoidance, of the use of concurrent IV promethazine and DHE.
Improving the Accuracy of Maxillary Sinus Balloon Dilation Using Virtual Reality Navigation: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Tang Dennis M , Grafmiller Kevin , Sreenath Satyan B , Wu Arthur , Yao William C , Sindwani Raj
Published: March 2023

Background

The ability to reliably and accurately cannulate the natural ostium of the maxillary sinus during balloon sinus dilation (BSD) has been criticized. Conventional computed tomography (CT)-guided navigation systems are helpful when dilating other sinuses, but they fail to provide meaningful feedback to guide accurate dilation of the maxillary sinus.

Objective

This study explores the potential impact of a new navigation system with virtual reality (VR) functionality on successful BSD of the maxillary sinus.

Methods

Using the established methodology, a cadaveric evaluation of the accuracy of maxillary BSD with a VR-equipped navigation system and balloon was undertaken. The natural ostium was landmarked on CT images with a beacon, and a VR intrasinus camera view was used to guide balloon dilation by a team of 2 rhinologists. Following the procedure, uncinectomies were performed to directly assess the accuracy of dilation. Standardized video clips with a 30° endoscopic view of the area were reviewed by 3 blinded rhinologists from different institutions who were not part of the procedures. Dilation of the natural ostium was scored as “successful,” “unsuccessful,” or “unsure.”

Results

Sixteen maxillary BSDs were completed in 8 cadavers using VR navigation. The medial wall of the maxillary sinus showing the natural ostium as well as any accessory ostia were readily visualized and labeled with a beacon in all cases using the 3D virtual rendering feature. Dilations were scored using a standardized rubric. Any “unsure” responses from the reviewers were categorized as “unsuccessful” for analysis purposes. The accuracy rate for dilation of the maxillary sinus natural ostium was 77%. Despite the use of cadaveric tissues, a fair interrater agreement (kappa 0.21) was achieved.

Conclusion

Using VR navigation appears to improve the accuracy of cannulating the natural ostium during maxillary BSD, which could lead to better outcomes. Further study in live subjects is warranted.
Countering extremist ideologies: What are the synergies between the EU’s internal and external action?
Authors: Burchett Julia
Published: March 2023

Countering the propaganda of terrorist groups has gradually become a central focus of efforts to prevent terrorism. The aim is ultimately to prevent the dissemination of violent ideas that are likely to encourage a process of radicalisation, which, in turn, is conducive to terrorist action. This objective has attracted more attention given changes in terrorist modus operandi, marked in particular by the use of modern online communication tools to incite/glorify terrorist acts, to provide training for terrorist purposes or to recruit candidates around the world. The EU and its Member States are working on several fronts to tackle the different facets of the ideological allure of extremist groups. This article discusses the fight against extremist ideologies as a new major focus of the EU’s terrorism prevention policy. The aim will be to shed the light on this evolving priority while identifying possible synergies between internal and external efforts to counter extremist propaganda.
Translation, adaptation, and validation of the MeNTS score in colombian population: The MeNTS Col score
Authors: Torregrosa Lilian , Guevara Oscar , Perez-Rivera Carlos , Lozada-Martinez Ivan David , Saavedra Carlos , Pedraza Mauricio , Aparicio Steven , Narvaez-Rojas Alexis Rafael , Cabrera-Vargas Luis Felipe
Published: March 2023

Objective:

To evaluate and validate the medically necessary and time sensitive score by testing the variables, in order to create a surgical preoperative score for procedure prioritization in COVID-19 pandemic in Colombia.

Methods:

A multicenter retrospective cross-sectional study of instrument validation with a cultural adaptation and translation into the Spanish language was carried out in Bogota, Colombia. Patients over 18 years of age who had undergone elective procedures of general surgery and subspecialties were included. The translation of the medically necessary and time sensitive score into Spanish was performed independently by two bilingual surgeons fluent in both English and Spanish. A final version of the Spanish questionnaire (MeNTS Col) for testing was then produced by an expert committee. After translation and cultural adaptation, it was submitted to evaluate the psychometric properties of the medically necessary and time sensitive score. Cronbach’s α was used to represent and evaluate the internal consistency and assess reliability.

Results:

A total of 172 patients were included, with a median age of 54 years; of which 96 (55.8%) patients were females. The vast majority of patients were treated for general surgery ( n = 60) and colon and rectal surgery ( n = 31). The evaluation of the internal consistency of the scale items in Spanish version was measured, and values of 0.5 for 0.8 were obtained. In the reliability and validation process, Cronbach’s α values in all items remained higher than 0.7. The new MeNTS Col model was analyzed, and a result of 0.91 was obtained.

Conclusions:

The Spanish version of the medically necessary and time sensitive, the MeNTS Col score, and its respective Spanish translation perform similarly to the original version. Therefore, they can be useful and reproducible in Latin American countries.
When respondents become photographers. Participatory photography: Characteristics, implementation, and interest for research in marketing
Authors: Boch Emmanuelle
Published: March 2023

This work explores an underemployed visual method in marketing research called participatory photography, in which participants take their own photos for the needs of the research project. This hugely appropriate method of interpretive research stands apart from classic photo-elicitation by accentuating respondent participation and using photography as a mode of knowledge to enable a better consideration of the embodied dimension of consumption experiences and an in-depth analysis of how individuals interact with their social and material environment. Here, we connect participatory photography to other visual techniques and provide guidance on putting it into practice, with an emphasis on data production and analysis. The article identifies the domains of marketing in which this method can prove most insightful.
Severe Subconjunctival Hemorrhage After Intravitreal Injection in a Patient With Hemophilia A
Authors: Kesav Natasha , Mehra Ankur Anil , Schmaier Alvin H. , Sobol Warren
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To report a patient with severe hemophilia A who received intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) for exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: A case and its findings were analyzed. A systematic literature was performed. Results: A patient with severe hemophilia A received intravitreal anti-VEGF for exudative AMD, after which he developed a severe subconjunctival hemorrhage requiring hemostatic intervention. The effects of anti-VEGF in patients with preexisting blood-clotting disorders, such as classic hemophilia, have not been widely reported in the current literature. Conclusions: This case illustrates that precautions must be taken when performing ocular procedures on patients with serious hemostasis disorders.
Extracellular vesicles derived from CD4+ T cells carry DGKK to promote sepsis-induced lung injury by regulating oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Tu Guo-wei , Zhang Yi , Ma Jie-fei , Hou Jun-yi , Hao Guang-wei , Su Ying , Luo Jing-chao , Sheng Lulu , Luo Zhe
Published: March 2023

Background

Sepsis is an abnormal immune response after infection, wherein the lung is the most susceptible organ to fail, leading to acute lung injury. To overcome the limitations of current therapeutic strategies and develop more specific treatment, the inflammatory process, in which T cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a central role, should be explored deeply.

Methods

Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was performed for serum EV protein profiling. The serum diacylglycerol kinase kappa (DGKK) and endotoxin contents of patients with sepsis-induced lung injury were measured. Apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in A549 cells, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and lung tissues of mice were measured by flow cytometry, biochemical analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blot.

Results

DGKK, the key regulator of the diacylglycerol (DAG)/protein kinase C (PKC) pathway, exhibited elevated expression in serum EVs of patients with sepsis-induced lung injury and showed strong correlation with sepsis severity and disease progression. DGKK was expressed in CD4+ T cells under regulation of the NF-κB pathway and delivered by EVs to target cells, including alveolar epithelial cells. EVs produced by CD4+ T lymphocytes exerted toxic effects on A549 cells to induce apoptotic cell death, oxidative cell damage, and inflammation. In mice with sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture, EVs derived from CD4+ T cells also promoted tissue damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the lungs. These toxic effects of T cell-derived EVs were attenuated by the inhibition of PKC and NOX4, the downstream effectors of DGKK and DAG.

Conclusions

This approach established the mechanism that T-cell-derived EVs carrying DGKK triggered alveolar epithelial cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage in sepsis-induced lung injury through the DAG/PKC/NOX4 pathway. Thus, T-cell-derived EVs and the elevated distribution of DGKK should be further investigated to develop therapeutic strategies for sepsis-induced lung injury.
High-quality single amplicon sequencing method for illumina MiSeq platform using pool of ‘N’ (0–10) spacer-linked target specific primers without PhiX spike-in
Authors: Naik Tejali , Sharda Mohak , C P Lakshminarayanan , Virbhadra Kumar , Pandit Awadhesh
Published: March 2023

Background

Illumina sequencing platform requires base diversity in the initial 11 cycles for efficient cluster identification and colour matrix estimation. This limitation yields low-quality data for amplicon libraries having homogeneous base composition. Spike-in of PhiX library ensures base diversity but reduces the overall number of sequencing reads for data analysis. To overcome such low diversity issues during amplicon sequencing on illumina platforms, we developed a high throughput single amplicon sequencing method by introducing ‘N’ (0–10) spacers in target gene amplification primers that are pooled for simple handling.

Result

We evaluated the efficiency of ‘N’ (0–10) spacer-linked primers by targeting bacterial 16S V3-V4 region, demonstrating heterogeneous base library construction. The addition of ‘N’ (0–10) spacers causes sequencing frameshift at every base that leads to base diversity and produces heterogeneous high quality reads within a single amplicon library. We have written a python based command-line software,“MetReTrim”, to trim the ‘N’ (0–10) spacers from the raw reads (https://github.com/Mohak91/MetReTrim). We further demonstrated the accuracy of this method by comparative mock community analysis with standard illumina V3-V4 primer method. The ZymoBIOMICS™ microbial community DNA standard was used as a control for this study. We performed data analysisusing the DADA2 pipeline where taxonomy was assigned using SILVA database as reference. We observed no difference between the communities represented by our method and standard illumina V3-V4 primer method.

Conclusion

This method eliminates the need for PhiX spike-in for single amplicon sequencing on illumina MiSeq platform. This allows for sequencing of more number of samples in a run and a reduction in the overall cost. Given that Illumina sequencing works on SBS chemistry irrespective of the platform (such as HiSeq, MiSeq, NextSeq, NovaSeq, etc.) we propose that this strategy of using ‘N’ (0–10) spacer-linked primer design can be adopted for generating high-quality single locus amplicon sequencing in a high throughput manner across the illumina platform subject to further validation.