bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community health worker empowerment through collaborative models with community midwifery
Authors: Dewi Arlina , Supriyatiningsih Supriyatiningsih , Sundari Sri , Sugiyo Dianita , Dewi Dyah Tri Kusuma
Published: March 2023

From 2007 to 2015, Indonesia’s maternal mortality rate (MMR) increased from 228/100,000 to 305/100,000 live births. The government has established a policy to reduce the MMR in rural and remote areas, which includes the maternal waiting home (MWH) program and the placement of community midwifery. However, the use of MWH in Indonesia, such as in South Sulawesi Province, remains low. This study aimed todetermine the impact of the community health worker (CHW) Empowerment Collaboration Model on the use of maternal waiting home (MWH). This was a quasi-experimental study with a control group and pre-post test design. This investigation was conducted at four community health centers in Bulukumba, South Sulawesi. A total of 125 pregnant women were selected for the study and divided into two groups: 66 in the experimental group and 59 in the control group. The collaborative empowerment model for CHWs was implemented in five stages. CHW provided the experimental group with education. In the experimental group, there were statistically significant increases in knowledge, attitude, and MWH use, whereas there were no statistically significant increases in the control group. Community health worker empowerment with a collaboration model significantly improves pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes, and MWH utilization outcomes (210%).
Recurrence stroke of ischemic stroke patients in Thailand: a nationwide study
Authors: Aunthakot Krissana , Loahasiriwong Wongsa , Tiamkao Somsak
Published: March 2023

Stroke is a global health problem and a leading cause of mortality and disability. Patients who survived an initial stroke are at risk for a recurrence stroke of the same type or another. However, few studies have documented at a national level. This research aimed to investigate the magnitude of recurrence stroke among ischemic stroke patients. This descriptive study used the data from neurology database collected between 2006 to 2020 in hospitals under the National Health Security System (NHSO) of Thailand. Among 511,322 ischemic stroke patients, recurrence of all types of strokes occurred in 85,968 patients or 16.81% (95% CI: 16.71-16.92). The prevalence was highest among patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus at 18.89% (95% CI: 18.54-19.26), atrial fibrillation at 18.79% (95% CI: 18.42-19.15), and ischemic heart disease at 18.59% (95% CI: 18.05- 19.15). Furthermore, patients who received recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) treatment (12.15% %, 95%CI: 11.75-12.55) and rehabilitation (14.39%, 95% CI: 14.25-14.54) had a lower prevalence. Co- morbidities were an important factor had a high recurrence and treatment factors that patients receive had a low recurrence. Therefore, policymakers and health institutions could use these findings to implement treatment and monitoring policies for recurrence stroke.
Epidemiology and risk factors of atopic dermatitis among children in Basrah, Iraq
Authors: Al-Rubaye Aya A. , Al-Yassen Asaad Q.
Published: March 2023

Atopic dermatitis is a major public health problem, especially among children and has an economic burden at family and community levels. The present research aimed to study the frequency, distribution and determinants of atopic dermatitis in Basrah city, Iraq. A cross-sectional study was carried out between December 2020 and March 2021 at the dermatology outpatient clinic of Alfayhaa Hospital in Basrah, Iraq. The overall prevalence of the disease among children was 21.3 %. The age-specific prevalence rate among infantile, childhood and adolescent groups were 40.7%, 21.7%, and 12.1%, respectively. One hundred Four children who attended the dermatology outpatient clinic were diagnosed with Atopic dermatitis. The mean age of the patients was 6.6±2.8 years. In 87.5% of the cases, the onset of disease was before two years of age. Using objective scoring atopic dermatitis (SCORAD), the disease was classified into mild, moderate and severe with a percentage of 10.6, 83.6, and 5.8, respectively. There was no significant association between the severity of atopic dermatitis with early-onset, positive family history of atopy, nor a high body mass index (BMI). We recommend further large-scale and community-based studies to estimate the real burden of the disease with emphasis on preventive measures.
Herbal supplementation improves clinical outcomes among diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Akrom Akrom , Hidayati Titiek , Setianto Arif Budi
Published: March 2023

Hyperglycemic conditions are still common in diabetes melllitus (DM) patients with routine therapy. Rural communities in the Special Region of Yogyakarta habitually consume herbal medicines. Herbal nutritional supplements (MHM) were developed as additional therapy to increase the success of achieving therapeutic targets for DM patients. This study aimed to identify the clinical picture of DM patients who were given MHM at public health center (PHC) in the rural areas of Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region. This retrospective study was conducted on 94 DM patients with routine therapy. Patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and had agreed to the informed consent were divided into two groups. Patients in the treatment group were asked to consume herbal supplement preparations (MHM) for 20 days. On day 21, each group measured clinical outcome parameters (blood pressure, blood glucose levels, triglycerides, cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), liver enzymes, urea, and creatinine). The mean difference test between the two groups (t-test) was carried out using a 95% confidence level. The results showed that the consumption of MHM herbal nutritional supplements for 20 days reduced blood sugar levels, Hb A1C levels, and urea levels (p<0.05). There were no differences in blood pressure, pulse, cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), and creatinine levels between the two groups (p>0.05). Administration of MHM for 20 days increased clinical outcomes in blood sugar, HbA1c, and urea levels in DM patients at PHC.
An exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis among Malaysian elderly
Authors: Abdul Razak Zulaikha , Binti Sahak Noorzilawati
Published: March 2023

Low awareness and underdeveloped instruments evaluating elderly Malaysians’ well-being, social support, and independence necessitate lubben social network scale (LSNS), social provisions scale (SPS), Katz activities of daily living (ADL), and life satisfaction index (LSI) development and evaluation involving 201 60-year-old males and females (purposive samples) in Kuching and Bintulu participated (June to August 2022). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) examined the construct validity of LSNS, SPS, Katz ADL, and LSI, whereas principal axis factoring (paf) and orthogonal (varimax) rotation with Kaiser Normalisation validated their psychometric properties and internal consistency reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. Social integration (0.94), reassurance of worth (0.91), attachment (0.90), sense of reliable alliance (0.78), and guidance (0.74) have eigenvalues >1 in the SPS-10 EFA; good Cronbach’s alpha reliability values. Family (0.77) and friends (0.73) of LSNS-6 factors have eigenvalues >1, good Cronbach’s alpha reliability values. Acceptance-contentment (0.87) and Achievement-fulfilment (0.72) had eigenvalues >1 in the Life Satisfaction Index-Z EFA, good Cronbach’s alpha reliability values. In the EFA of Katz ADL, single items with factor loadings ≥0.5: bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, and feeding; loadings <0.3: Continence; Cronbach’s alpha reliability value was 0.95. LSNS, SPS, Katz ADL, and LSI were valid and reliable instruments measuring elderly well-being, social support, and independence. Confirmatory factor analyses will revalidate it in different populations.
Feeling psychologically unsafe at school and university: bullying and youth living with depression in Indonesia
Authors: Munira Lafi , Liamputtong Pranee , Viwattanakulvanid Pramon
Published: March 2023

The prevalence of bullying in Indonesia was 41% among students aged fifteen. This study explored the experiences of being bullied at school/university and the psychological trauma of being bullied among youth with mental disorders in Indonesia. The study adopted a qualitative approach by conducting in‐depth one‐on‐one interviews through WhatsApp chat among twenty participants with mental disorders aged 18-25 from five municipalities in Indonesia (Padang, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Banjarmasin, and Makassar). Data collection process was conducted from January to June 2022. The thematic analysis method was used for data analysis. Findings can be constructed into five themes: i) looking different: physical appearance, ii) sexual bullying, iii) toxic seniority at school/university, iv) unhealthy competition among students at school/university, and v) Being bullied and having mental health problems. Bullying prevention programs at schools and universities in Indonesia are needed to enhance bullying awareness among students and teachers at schools/universities and to achieve safety in schools/universities for students.
Lived experiences of adolescents living with human immuno- deficiency virus in Namibia
Authors: Mukerenge Ndinohokwe Foibe , Schomollgruber Shelley
Published: March 2023

Adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) experience stigma, ill-treatment, and many other challenges due to their health condition. Their experience with HIV is highly overlooked, yet, it shapes their decisions and influences their health outcomes. The objective of this study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of adolescents living with HIV in the Namibian context. We conducted a qualitative study of adolescents (aged 10-19 years) at five different anti-retroviral treatment (ART) clinics in Rundu district, Kavango region Namibia. We used purposive sampling and collected data through in-depth interviews with 21 adolescents from October 2020 to December 2020. We analyzed the data with content analysis. The mean age of participants was 16 years, and the age ranged between 12-19 years. Most participants (62%) have never been in a relationship or engaged in sexual activities. All the participants were in school at the time of the study. The content analysis yielded five broad categories: i) experience with HIV care and treatment, ii) finding out about HIV Status, iii) the interplay between HIV and social relationships, iv) the need for information on HIV and the treatment, v) multiple fears, worries, and means to cope. Adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) experience many challenges due to their health condition. Learning about their HIV status is one of the most challenging experiences. There is a need for continued HIV care and support for adolescents living with HIV, which is adolescent- friendly and focused.
Factors related to family’s ability to care for schizophrenic patients
Authors: Iswanti Dwi Indah , Nursalam Nursalam , Fitryasari Rizky , Motuho Mendrofa Fery Agusman , Kandar Kandar
Published: March 2023

Schizophrenic patients in family members makes the family helpless and unable to care for them. Patient, family, social environment, and health service factors can affect the family's ability to care for schizophrenic patients. The aims of this study are to analyze factor predictors of the family's ability to care for schizophrenic patients. This study used a correlational study design. The sample of this study is 135 schizophrenic families in the outpatient clinic of Dr. Amino Gondohutomo Regional Psychiatric Hospital with purposive sampling. The instruments in this study are the questionnaire which developed and modified from the experience caregiving instrument (ECI), inner resource scale (SAS-I), mental health inventory (MHI), Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire, Barthel Index, caregiving tasks in caring for an adult with mental illness scale (CTiCAMIS). Data were analyzed using a multiple regression test. The result shows the family's ability to care for schizophrenic patients predicted by the variables of family resources (p-value=0.019) and social support (p-value=0.0.32). Family resources as the strongest predictor of the family's ability to care for schizophrenic patients (B=0.242). It is necessary to develop integrated family empowerment interventions that increase and activate the family's inner resources.
Definition and conceptual model of genetics literacy: a systematic literature review
Authors: Maghfiroh Hidayati , Zubaidah Siti , Mahanal Susriyati , Susanto Hendra
Published: March 2023

Genetic literacy is essential for promoting health and well-being in modern society. Although its importance is increasingly recognised, the definition and crucial dimension to construct a conceptual model are unclear, limiting the possibilities for measurement and comparison intervention. The study aims to review definitions and the conceptual models of genetics literacy and develop a new comprehensive definition and conceptual model based on the discovered dimensions that are relevant in the post-genomic era. We performed a systematic literature review using the Crossref, PubMed, and Scopus databases with Publish or Perish software. An automated content analysis was conducted to identify and develop conceptual model genetics literacy using NVivo 12 software. The review resulted in 10 definitions and 12 conceptual models. Automated content analysis showed that genetic literacy is defined as the ability of an individual to comprehend, use, correlate, assess, and propose genetic information to make arguments, reason, and decide on genetic issues in maintaining or improving the quality of personal and social well-being. Genetic literacy was conceptualised as a set of knowledge, a set of skills or interconnected. The conceptual model of genetics literacy covers two dimensions. i) Knowledge dimension: conceptual (nature of genetic material, transmission, genetic expression, genetic regulation, genetic determinism, genetic technology); sociocultural; epistemic. ii) Skills dimension: argumentation, informal reasoning, and decision-making skills. This definition and conceptual model can serve as a basis for developing interventions and measurements to support regulating, preventing, as well as promoting health and well-being.
The water supply service during the COVID-19 pandemic among people of concern in Nigeria
Authors: Suryani Dyah , Yetiani Novin , Mamahit Adi Yeremia , Akbar Hairil , Rahmawati Ade , Amartani Rizki , Sunarti Sunarti , Abbani Abu Bakar Yakubbu , Maretalinia Maretalinia
Published: March 2023

Refugees in the destination countries might have some risks including lack of water supply. Nigeria as one of the destination countries for people of concern (PoCs) including refugees also faced the lack of access to water supply, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to examine the factors related to reduced access to water supply in refugee camps in Nigeria during COVID-19 pandemic. This study used the secondary data available from UNHCR in Nigeria 2020. The survey used disproportionate stratified random sampling. After data cleaning, the data from 4,016 households were examined in this study. The interview has been done using the computer-assisted telephone interview. The factors related to the reduced access to water supply were living in Adamawa, Benue, Ogun, Taraba, Yobe, and Borne states, coming from Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, and Syria, having household member 6-15 persons, having household income 41,000- 60,000 Naira per month, and had low awareness about COVID-19. The demographic and economic factors were the most significantly related to reduced access to the water supply.
Bioaccumulation of heavy metals using aquatic plants in wastewater
Authors: Muliyadi Muliyadi , Purwanto Purwanto , Sumiyati Sri , Mussadun Mussadun
Published: March 2023

Heavy metals are very harmful to the environment if present in excessive concentrations and will have an effect on humans if they interact directly. Knowing the findings of heavy metal bioaccumulation in aquatic plants when reducing pollutants in liquid waste is the main goal of this study. Various types of data were developed and analyzed to answer the specific goals set through the EBSCO, ProQuest, and Science Direct Search Engine, by looking at several parameters. Bioaccumulation data for aquatic plants in liquid waste were obtained from five articles that met the criteria. The findings showed that there are six types of plants that can be used as heavy metal bioaccumulators in wastewater, including Limnobium laevigatum, Salvinia auriculata, Lemna minor, Colocasia esculenta, T. latifolia, and T. palustris. Data was also obtained that most research was carried out using liquid waste originating from within the city with a research time ranging from 1-45 days. The heavy metals that were most commonly accumulated in these plants were Zn, Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Cd. It can be concluded that bioaccumulation using aquatic plants is very reliable for various types of heavy metals that can be removed.
The effect of family appraisal on caregiver burden in family caregiver of female cancer patients
Authors: Purnama Sari Ni Putu Wulan , Manungkalit Maria
Published: March 2023

The growing prevalent of female cancer malignancies and the cancer care transition from clinical-based into home-based care have resulted in the growing involvement of family caregiver (FCG) in cancer management. The caregiving activity may be appraised as positive or negative life aspect. Negative family appraisal may result in FCG burden. This study expected to examine the effect of FCG appraisal of cancer caregiving on their burden in community context. This cross-sectional study involved 60 FCG of female cancer patients in five communities of Surabaya. Population was all primary FCG of female cancer patients in Surabaya’s communities. Family appraisal and caregiver burden were measured by questionnaires of family appraisal of caregiving questionnaire for palliative care (FACQ-PC) and caregiver burden inventory (CBI) respectively. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistic and simple linear regression tests. Most respondents were spouses with very mature age (41-50 years old), high school graduated, and working with sufficient income. The majority appraised cancer caregiving activities positively (80.67±16.31) and reported low burden (32.02±12.23). FCG appraisal has a huge impact on their burden (p=0.000). It influences 20.7% variance of burden in this population (R2=0.207).
Eating behaviors related to nutritional status among adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Oktavianto Eka , Saifudin I Made Moh. Yanuar , Suryati Suryati , Supriyadi Supriyadi , Setyaningrum Niken
Published: March 2023

Adolescents are still prone to the issues of under and overeating. Eating behaviors are one factor that affects adolescents' nutritional status. This study aimed to look at the relationship between adolescents' eating behaviors and nutritional status. The cross-sectional study was conducted between September and November 2022. The self-evaluation instruments were completed by one hundred seventy-two individuals. Spearman-rank correlation analyses were performed. The findings showed that 84 (48.8%) adolescents had normal nutritional status, compared to 73 (42.4%) adolescents who engaged in low-risk eating. Nutritional status and eating behaviors were substantially associated (r=0.41, p=0.03). This research shows that individuals with bad eating behaviors have a greater risk of experiencing nutritional disorders. This study has certain limitations, such as the sample's composition of adolescents from a particular Yogyakarta area, which restricts the applicability of our findings to other communities. A longitudinal study is required to ascertain the cause-effect relationship between eating behavior and nutritional status. Accordingly, the cooperation of various parties is needed to increase adolescent knowledge about the importance of optimal nutrition during the growth period and understanding related to a healthy diet. It is hoped that there will be further research on other factors that influence the nutritional status of adolescents.
Occurrence of opportunistic invasive macroalgal genus Caulerpa and Halimeda opuntia in coral reefs of Gulf of Mannar
Authors: Chatragadda Ramesh  , Sadhukhan Koushik , T. Shunmugaraj  , M.V. Ramana Murthy
Published: March 2023

nvestigations on indigenous and non-indigenous invasive flora and fauna of a certain geographical area are always important to assess their impact on native biodiversity and control their spread by making conservation strategies to protect biodiversity. In this study, we have encountered overwhelming growth of six seaweed species, Caulerpa racemosa, C. serrulata, C. sertularioides, C. taxifolia, C. peltata, and Halimeda opuntia on the reef flat. These algal covers on reef area appear to compete with coral polyps and restrict their settlement and resilience. Our concern on invasive species distribution in Gulf of Mannar revealed these overgrowing invasive species, which can become potential threats to coral reefs, benthic diversity, and reef assemblage. These observations will help us to develop multidisciplinary management approaches related to the expansion, mitigation, and control of these opportunistic invasive species. Further seasonal monitoring on these algal species is under process to investigate their spatial shift patterns on various coral forms.
First record of Brilliant Flash Rapala melida nicevillei (Swinhoe, 1911) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) to Meghalaya, India
Authors: Bhowmik Suman , Bose Atanu , Bhoir Jayant Ghanshyam , Bora Atanu , Das Suraj , Laha Shyamal Kumar , Aomoa Ngangom
Published: March 2023

Brilliant Flash Rapala melida nicevillei belonging to the family Lycaenidae is reported for the first time from Meghalaya, northeastern India. Its description, illustration, distribution, and habitat notes are provided. The taxonomic identity of the species is discussed and compared with the most similar species, Rapala varuna. This observation presents the first photograph of the live specimen from India.
Genetic evidence on the occurrence of Channa harcourtbutleri (Annandale, 1918) in Eastern Ghats, India: first report from mainland India
Authors: Laskar Boni Amin , Adimalla Harikumar , Kundu Shantanu , Jaiswal Deepa , Chandra Kailash
Published: March 2023

Channa harcourtbutleri (Annandale) was described from Inle Lake (Southern Shan State) in Myanmar, and is currently considered as a valid species in the Channa gachua species-group. Notwithstanding several detailed studies on Channa from India in the recent, none has mentioned the occurrence of C. harcourtbutleri in the Indian mainland. In continuation to the faunal diversity exploration in Eastern Ghats, India, a few specimens in the C. gachua species-group were collected from the river Sabri sub-basin of the river Godavari basin in the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh which was identified as C. harcourtbutleri through DNA barcoding. This is a first report on occurrence of the species in the wild in the Eastern Ghats, India.
First report of the beetle Henosepilachna nana (Kapur, 1950) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from Maharashtra with special reference to molecular phylogeny and host plants
Authors: Patil Priyanka B. , Gaikwad Sunil M.
Published: March 2023

A ladybird beetle, collected from different localities of Kolhapur and Satara districts (Maharashtra) was identified as Henosepilachna nana (Kapur, 1950). The presence of this species in Maharashtra considerably extends its range to the north-west by about 700 km. Since this species is found on vegetables, Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.), Cucumber (Cucumis spp.), and Karit fruit plant (Cucumis spp.). It is being recorded for the first time that this species is a pest of these vegetables. Also, molecular phylogeny has been studied for the first time in this species in which, this species is the sister taxon of Henosepilachna boisduvali. This species has been described briefly with colour photographs of male genitalia, female coxites and the 6th sternal plate of female, tarsi, & pronotum. Henosepilachna nana is being reported for the first time from Maharashtra and now the molecular data of this species is available.
A new termite species of the genus Bulbitermes (Blattodea: Isoptera: Termitidae) from Meghalaya, India
Authors: Das Khirod Sankar , Choudhury Sudipta
Published: March 2023

A new termite species, Bulbitermes debadiliporum sp. nov., of the nasutiform genus Bulbitermes is described here from the Mawlynnong area of the East Khasi Hills district and Nongkhrah Village of the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya, India. The species is described based on the soldier & worker castes, and a detailed illustration of the diagnostic characteristics of both the castes is provided here. Soldiers of the species are monomorphic whereas the workers are dimorphic with worker major and worker minor. Worker dimorphism is reported hitherto for the first time among Bulbitermes species of the Indian region. Furthermore, an updated identification key of Bulbitermes species from the Indian region is also provided here.
Cyrtosia falconeri (Hook.f.) Aver. (Orchidaceae): an addition to the flora of Jammu & Kashmir, India
Authors: Mushtaq Ahmed  , Manjul Dhiman
Published: March 2023

In the present study Cyrtosia falconeri (Hook.f.) Aver. is presented as a new record for the flora of state Jammu & Kashmir, India. It is a terrestrial mycoheterotrophic orchid found in evergreen oak forests. During the field survey, authors found this interesting specimen in humus-rich soil in the forests of Koteranka, Rajouri at an elevation of 1,765 m. Detailed citation, information on type, description, information on habitat, phenology, and distribution is provided.
An update on the conservation status of Tibetan Argali Ovis ammon hodgsoni (Mammalia: Bovidae) in India
Authors: Khanyari Munib , Dorjay Rigzin , Lobzang Sherab , Sonam Karma , Suryawanshi Kulbhushansingh Ramesh
Published: March 2023

Mountain ungulates are important for alpine ecosystem ecology, yet are understudied, particularly in Asia. Tibetan Argali Ovis ammon hodgsoni occurs across Tibet, with Trans-Himalayan India forming the edge of its distribution. We studied their conservation status in India. We compiled published data and secondary information about the occurrence of argali. We then focused on Ladakh, the remaining stronghold of argali in India. Based on literature from Ladakh and after consulting key-informants, we delimited two major populations of argali and estimate population density and demography using the double-observer method. We found 27 studies on argali in India. Studies covered four major themes: records (n = 12), conservation (n = 7), ecology (n = 7), and evolution (n = 1), with studies increasing after 2000. Estimated argali density in Tsaba was 0.34 argali km-2 (0.32–0.40)  and in Chushul-Mirpal Tso was 0.15 argali km-2 (0.12–0.30). Both populations had comparable demography including age-sex ratios. We need to urgently consider argali as a priority species for conservation in India particularly as threats—including transboundary concerns, lack of coordinated conservation across the international border, anthropogenic disturbances, competition & disturbance from livestock grazing, and habitat loss—are a reality. Towards that, we delimited knowledge gaps and set robust population baselines for the two important argali populations in India. As the Tibetan Argali here co-occur with people, it will be crucial to ensure conservation is done in partnership with local communities.
Jasminum angustifolium (L.) Willd. var. angustifolium (Oleaceae): a new distribution record for West Bengal, India
Authors: Modak Keya , Chowdhury Monoranjan
Published: March 2023

Jasminum angustifolium (L.) Wild. var. angustifolium (Oleaceae), is reported here as an addition to the flora of West Bengal from natural habitats. Detailed morphology with field photographs are provided here to facilitate the correct taxon identification.
New distribution record of Roridomyces cf. phyllostachydis (Agaricales: Mycenaceae), a bioluminescent fungus from Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Arijit Dutta  , Sourav Gupta  , Jayanta K. Roy  , M. Firoz Ahmed
Published: March 2023

Nocturnal surveys conducted in Namdapha National Park of Arunachal Pradesh (India) in April 2022 led to an opportunistic encounter with bioluminescent fungi. Based on morphological characteristics and photographic comparisons from published literature, we have identified the species to be Roridomyces cf. phyllostachydis, a glowing mushroom that has previously been described from two different districts of Meghalaya (East Khasi Hills and West Jayantia Hills). The glowing stipe surface without the glowing pileus distinguishes this species from other bioluminescent fungal species found in India. Our observation of Roridomyces cf. phyllostachydis marks a new distribution record from the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
Determinants of diet selection by Blackbuck Antilope cervicapra at Point Calimere, southern India: quality also matters
Authors: Sathishkumar Selvarasu , Arandhara Subhasish , Baskaran Nagarajan
Published: March 2023

Unlike the wide-ranging habitat generalists that move seasonally across heterogenous habitats to optimize the energy intake, short-ranging habitat specialists fulfil the same by restricting to single habitat. Understanding how habitat-specialists do this is an interesting question and essential for their conservation. We studied the diet composition and evaluated the covariates belonging to climate, habitat and grass dynamics to assess the determinants of seasonal diet selection by Blackbuck Antilope cervicapra, an antelope endemic to the Indian subcontinent, at Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, southern India. Diet composition studied following feeding trail observation (n = 102322) and the influence of covariates on the top five major diet species selected seasonally was tested using Regression with Empirical Variable Selection. The results showed that overall Blackbucks consumed 30 plant species—six browse and 27 grass species. While wet season diet was less diverse (22 species) with higher dependency on principal diet Cyperus compressus (>40%) and Aeluropus lagopoides (24%), the dry season diet was more diverse (30) species, with decreased dependency on principal diet. Among 13 covariates belonging to climate, habitat, and grass dynamics tested against selection of top five major diet plants by Blackbucks, grass dynamics covariates alone entered as the predictors both in wet and dry seasons. While cover and green leaves of the grass were the most common predictors in the top-five diets selection during wet season, in dry season besides cover and green leaves, grass texture (hard and soft), also entered as the most common predictors. The entry of grass cover, a quantitative related measure, and texture and green condition of the grass, quality related measures, as the drivers indicate that diet selection by Blackbuck is not just a matter of grass quantity, but also its quality.
Diversity of bees in two crops in an agroforestry ecosystem in Kangsabati South Forest Division, Purulia, West Bengal, India
Authors: Pallabi Das  , Uniyal V.P.
Published: March 2023

The investigation study assesses the diversity of bees in Brinjal Solanum melongena L. and Ridge Gourd Luffa acutangula L. crop field from agroforestry ecosystem in South Kangsabati Forest Division, India. The study was carried out in  May 2021 to May 2022 that based on transect, focal observation and pan trap samplings. A total of 1,085 individuals were identified during the field work, belonging to three family seven genera (Apis, Tetragonula, Xylocopa, Ceratina, Amegelia, Nomia, and Megachile) and seventeen species, the non Apis bees (63.78%) were most abundant than Apis bees (36.22%). In brinjal, Shannon diversity index of bees is 2.12 and Shannon evenness index is 0.35, whereas, Shannon diversity index in ridge gourd was 1.94 and Shannon evenness index is 0.3. The observations signify greater diversity and population of wild bees. The natural habitat close to agricultural land helps to sustain the diversity and population of wild bees, which enhance the crop quality and yield.
An annotated checklist of the avifauna of Karangadu mangrove forest, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, with notes on the site’s importance for waterbird conservation
Authors: Byju H. , Raveendran N. , Ravichandran S. , Kishore R.
Published: March 2023

Avifaunal inventories are crucial to the formulation of conservation and management strategies for habitats and species. An annotated checklist of the birds of the Karangadu eco-tourism area located in the Palk Bay in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, was prepared. We listed a total of 107 species belonging to 18 orders and 40 families. Orders Charadriiformes, Suliformes, and Pelecaniformes dominated the habitat. Among the families, Scolopacidae (10 species) was dominant, followed by Ardeidae (9), and Laridae (8). In addition, the study also documented three globally ‘Near Threatened’ species: Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, and Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus. The observed frequency of the species was: 57% (61 spp.) common, 32.7% (35 spp.) uncommon, and 10.3% (11 spp.) rare. Categorization based on the residential status of birds revealed that 31% (33 spp.) were winter visitors, and one was a passage migrant (Rosy Starling Pastor roseus). These baseline data highlight the importance of Karangadu as an important site on the southeastern coast of India for migratory shorebird conservation priorities.
THE EFFECTS OF ORGANIZATION BASED SELF-ESTEEM AND PROACTIVE PERSONALITY ON RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TIGHT AND LOOSE ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURES AND JOB CRAFTING
Authors: GÜNER KİBAROĞLU Gamze , BASIM H. Nejat
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of organizational culture on job crafting within the scope of its structural dimensions, while investigating the role of predictive approach and organization-based self-esteem in this effect. Since each variable of the study is explained within the scope of self-regulation theory, it contributes to the literature. 655 data were collected by questionnaire method in this study. According to the findings of the study, organizational culture affects job crafting. In this effect, organization-based self-esteem plays a partial mediator role, while proactive personality takes a partial moderator role. These results of the study showed that managers and human resources managers should pay attention to the structure of the organization in order to craft the jobs of the employees. In addition, this study emphasizes that the human resources unit should not ignore the self-esteem and proactive personality structure of the working individuals on the basis of the organization.
Six new species of Elpidium Müller, 1880 (Podocopida: Limnocytheridae) from Eastern Brazil
Authors: PEREIRA JULIA S. , Da ROCHA CARLOS E. F. , MARTENS KOEN , PINTO RICARDO L. , DaSILVA MARCIO B.
Published: March 2023

Elpidium is the most common ostracod genus occurring in phytotelmata in the Neotropical region, with distributions ranging from Florida, USA in the north to Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil in the south. However, the genus remains poorly known both in terms of diversity and of the distributional pattern of its species. Here, we describe six new species of Elpidium, E. oxumae n. sp., E. cordiforme n. sp., E. picinguabaense n. sp., E. eriocaularum n. sp., E. higutiae n. sp., E. purium n. sp., all from phytotelm environments in the Brazilian Atlantic rain forest. In addition, we discuss the distributional pattern and endemicity levels of Elpidium species in the light of these new taxonomic results and argue about possible misunderstandings on the distribution of the type species E. bromeliarum.
Contribution to the knowledge of the family Caenidae (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) from Madurai District, Tamil Nadu
Authors: SRINIVASAN PANDIARAJAN , SIVARUBAN T. , BARATHY S. , ISACK RAJASEKARAN
Published: March 2023

Three new species of Caenis Stephens viz., Caenis kaegies sp. n., C. venkataramani sp. n., and C. arunachalami sp. n., are described based on larvae and reared subimagines and/or imagines from Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Two more species of Caenis are recognized and described (from eggs and imagoes) but are not formally named. Additional characters are mentioned for C. americani Srinivasan, Sivaruban, Barathy, Malzacher & Isack, 2021 and C. maduraiensis Balasubramanian & Muthukatturaja, 2021. The egg morphology of all the known species of Caenis from Tamil Nadu is described. The total number of Caenis species is thereby increased to seven in the Madurai District and nine in South India. The genus Clypeocaenis Soldan is recorded for the first time in the Madurai District, with the species Clypeocaenis kaveri Balasubramanian and Muthukatturaja, 2021, whose description is amended. Identification keys to the adults, larvae, and eggs of the known Caenis species from South India are also provided.
Description of two new species of apple snail (Ampullariidae: Pomacea) from Peruvian Amazonia
Authors: AMPUERO ANDRÉ , RAMÍREZ RINA
Published: March 2023

Two new species of apple snails are described, Pomacea penai sp. nov. and Pomacea reevei sp. nov. that are used as food resources in Peruvian Amazonia. We used anatomical and conchological features to diagnose these two species. Pomacea penai sp. nov. is characterized by a highly variable shell morphology, spire that is prominent to immersed, apical penis sheath gland covering 1/3 penis sheath and elongated basal gland, prostate broad proximally, reduced stomach septum, green eggs, and commonly inhabits temporary flooded areas, creeks, and oxbow lakes. Pomacea reevei sp. nov. possesses a large shell, ranging from 81–137 mm, grey broad penis sheath, small apical penis sheath gland and the basal gland covering 1/3 penis sheath, tall stomach septum, white eggs, and found in deep lentic water bodies.
Species distribution modelling of Hylarana Species (Anura, Ranidae) and the problem of accurate species identification
Authors: LAURENCE FLORIAN , NICOLAS VIOLAINE , AYORO HALAMOUSSA JOËLLE , OHLER ANNEMARIE
Published: March 2023

Species of Hylarana Tschudi, 1838 are among the most common amphibian species in the Oriental region. Their poorly known geographical distribution impacts species delimitation and conservation actions. We compiled geographical data from literature, online databases and museum collections for the four currently recognized species, Hylarana erythraea, H. taipehensis, H. tytleri and H. macrodactyla. We obtained 1014 occurrence records and allocated a quality rate to each of these points: A—species identification confirmed by ancillary data; B—species identification unconfirmed; and C—conflict between species name, geographic origin and morphological characters; resulted in exclusion of the latter in final analyses. Based on these different datasets we built species occurrence maps for each of the four species. These maps were compared to already available distribution maps, introducing a more precise distribution for the four species but with persistence of data gaps within less prospected areas. We then built Species Distribution Models (SDMs) based on climatic data. Discrepancies between observed distribution ranges and areas with suitable climatic niches are discussed in a taxonomical context. Hylarana species, although taxonomically still not fully resolved and occupying similar habitats, exhibit differences in distribution pattern. Models also fill data gaps, introducing relevant suitable climatic niches within close range of species’ distribution areas. Differences were observed between A and B-quality data models, with high suitable habitats being less present in most cases for B-quality. Our study shows the importance of merging A and B-quality data, represented by A+B dataset, thus creating more accurate models, but also underlines the necessity to have access to correct data to limit bias.
How many valid Pleurosicya (Teleostei: Gobiidae) species are known from the Red Sea?
Authors: GOREN MENACHEM , BOGORODSKY SERGEY V. , ROTHMAN SHEVY B-S.
Published: March 2023

Four species of the gobiid genus Pleurosicya are reported from the Red Sea: P. bilobata, P. mossambica, P. plicata, and P. prognatha. Pleurosicya bilobata is reported as a new record for the Red Sea based on underwater photographs taken from a seagrass area at Dahab, Egypt, Gulf of Aqaba. A previous Red Sea record of P. micheli, a species occurring from Indonesia to French Polynesia, is based on a misidentification of P. mossambica and can be excluded as the Red Sea species. Phylogenetic COI barcode analysis showed that the genetic distance between Red Sea population and Western Indian Ocean specimens of P. mossambica is low, confirming the synonymy of P. sinaia, described from the Red Sea, with P. mossambica. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that specimens from the western Pacific under the name P. mossambica are genetically distinct and may represent an undescribed species. Brief descriptions accompanied with underwater photographs are provided for four species of Pleurosicya from the Red Sea.
Taxonomic status of Pseudophilautus conniffae (Anura: Rhacophoridae) an endemic shrub frog restricted to South–Western wet zone of Sri Lanka
Authors: ABEYSEKARA SHASHIKA , SAMARASINGHE HELANI , MANAMENDRA-ARACHCHI KELUM , ADHIKARI HIMASH , PREMARATHNE SONALI , BANDARA CHAMPIKA , PERERA USHANI , WIJAYATHILAKA NAYANA
Published: March 2023

Pseudophilautus conniffae from Lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka, was described as a new species in 2019. The validity of the new species was questionable and was often challenged as it shares strong morphological resemblance with P. limbus. Moreover, the phylogenetic placement of P. conniffae was unknown as no molecular data was available until now. Here, we generated 16S DNA sequences and re-examined the external morphological characters to assess its taxonomic distinctiveness. Pseudophilautus conniffae was recovered as being close to P. limbus with strong posterior probability and bootstrap support. The uncorrected pairwise genetic distance between P. conniffae and P. limbus was negligible, being less than 0.3% for the 16S gene fragment. Further two molecular species delimitation methods, ABGD and mPTP suggested that P. conniffae and P. limbus are a single operational taxonomic unit. The Principal Component Analysis of the morphometric characters also resulted in overlapping clusters. These results suggest that the newly described P. conniffae is not a valid species and we conclude that P. conniffae as a junior synonym of P. limbus.
Detection of Ilicis rotundae Cortex Decoction Pieces Using Raman Spectroscopy Fingerprints
Authors: Li Lijing , He Yiming , Zhou Kaixuan , Nan Minlun , Xia Fang , He Yufang
Published: March 2023

Ilicis rotundae Cortex (IRC, also called Jiubiying) is a traditional Chinese medicine, factors such as the origin and growing environments will affect its quality and content of active ingredients. Therefore, it is necessary to realize rapid detection to better implement quality
control. Raman spectroscopy has been commonly used to identify molecules and analyse biological compounds in Fingerprints. In this study, four commercial samples from different origins were collected, Raman spectra of four samples were established by confocal Raman microscopy at 785 nm, and
the positions and attribution of spectral peaks were determined. The similarity of spectra were analyzed by MATLAB software, and the first and second derivative were transformed to establish the characteristic fingerprints. In the results, all the samples showed common characteristic peaks
near 448, 481, 565, 868, 944 and 1088 cm−1, showing the spectral characteristics of carbohydrates and glycosidic bonds. The correlation coefficient of the characteristic peaks of the samples were between 0.9745 and 0.9951, and the consistency coefficient were between 0.9782
and 0.9944. The peak shapes of the first derivative of spectrum were significantly different among the range of 180–340, 460–540, 700–860 and 1010–1100 cm−1, and the peak shapes of the second derivative of spectrum were significantly different among
the range of 180–340, 500–540 and 760–860 cm−1. In conclusion, the first and second derivative of Raman spectra for samples from four different sources were significantly different, indicating the Raman fingerprint was successfully established, which can
be used as a basis for rapid identification of IRC decoction pieces which lays a foundation for the further identification of decoction pieces from different origins.
Comparative Analysis of Pitch Ratings in All Formats of Cricket
Authors: Kumar Chitresh , Balasubramanian Girish
Published: March 2023

The article identifies measurable attributes to find the consistency in pitch ratings which are otherwise subjective decisions made by referees for international test match cricket. To do so, the article uses statistics related to test matches, one-days and T20s played among all test playing nations between March 2017 and March 2019 (53 tests, 142 T20s and 172 one-day matches: the next two seasons ending May 2020/2021 were hit by COVID-19 and hence excluded). To measure the consistency of pitch ratings (very good, good, above average, average, below average and poor), measurable attributes like runs/day, wickets/day, runs/over, runs/wicket and overs/wicket were identified. To rank pitch ratings using these attributes, the multi-criteria decision-making technique—PROMETHEE II was used. We found that the referee pitch ratings are largely consistent and the attributes developed can be utilized to further analyse future judgements regarding pitch ratings. Further, six-pitch ratings can be clustered into two distinct groups that are significantly different from each other. The article is among the first to analyse sports pitch ratings by using team performance-based statistics. This study paves the way for similar studies and development of newer statistical flow-based attributes.
The ‘Housewife’ on an Education Mission: An Ethnographic Portrait
Authors: Borker Hem
Published: March 2023

The article employs the ethnographic portrait of the founder and co-owner of a chain of girls’ madrasas in a Muslim-dominated mofussil town in Uttar Pradesh to illuminate the current moment at which girls’ madrasas stand in a rapidly changing India. These madrasas use a range of imaginaries from the global ummah to the pious educated Indian Muslim woman to recast madrasa education, offering a mix of formalised religious education and modern schooling in safe ‘purdah’ institutions. The article illustrates how girls’ madrasas are both a source and result of the changing imagery of the kamil momina 1 or ideal Islamic woman in India. It teases out the connections between these various strands to illustrate larger social implications and argues that contemporary girls’ madrasas do not conform to the binaries of social reproduction and empowerment that have been conventionally applied to studies on madrasas.