bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast cancer: presentation, investigation and management
Authors: Katsura Chie , Ogunmwonyi Innocent , Kankam Hadyn KN , Saha Sunita
Published: February 2022

Breast cancer is the most common global malignancy and the leading cause of cancer deaths. Despite this, undergraduate and postgraduate exposure to breast cancer is limited, impacting on the ability of clinicians to accurately recognise, assess and refer appropriate patients. This article provides a comprehensive review of the pathology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, referral pathways and management of breast cancer in the UK. It also describes how to conduct a thorough clinical breast examination.
Lecturers’ Views on the Functionality of e-Portfolio as Alternative Assessment in an Open Distance e-Learning
Authors: Mudau Patience Kelebogile
Published: February 2022

Technological advances and the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic have forced higher education institutions to be innovative in delivering education in their countries. E- assessment using e-portfolio illustrates the importance of assessment practices that promote constructivist perception, allowing students to create their own learning as active participants through innovative learning and assessment activities. The purpose of this paper was to explore lecturer’s understandings on the functionality of e-portfolio as an alternative assessment in an Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL). For this qualitative study, within an interpretative paradigm, interviews were conducted with four lecturers using thematic approach. The findings revealed that e-portfolio is beneficial for assessment in the ODeL as it allows students the opportunity to self-embrace their learning, e-portfolio enhances student-centeredness through authentic assessment practices. However, e-portfolio is not implemented to its potential due to challenges and constraints experienced by lecturers. Based on the findings, it is recommended that training workshops beneficial for lecturers should be conducted at the beginning of the course/module on how to create their e-portfolios. Furthermore, an e-portfolio assessment framework to be facilitated for the successful implementation of e-portfolio assessment strategy.  
Curcuma siamensis (Zingiberaceae, Zingibereae), a new species of Curcuma subgen. Ecomatae from Southeastern Thailand
Authors: Saensouk Piyaporn , BOONMA THAWATPHONG , SAENSOUK SURAPON
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Saensouk P, Boonma T, Saensouk S. 2021. Curcuma siamensis (Zingiberaceae, Zingibereae), a new species of Curcuma subgen. Ecomatae from Southeastern Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 5239-5246. Curcuma siamensis Saensouk & Boonma sp. nov. (Zingiberaceae: Zingibereae) belonging to the genus Curcuma subgenus Ecomatae, as herein described and illustrated discovered in Chachoengsao Province, Southeastern Thailand during our exploration of Zingiberaceae family in Thailand and in preparation for the revision of the genus Curcuma for the Flora of Thailand project. It is similar to Curcuma rangsimae Boonma & Saensouk in having terminal inflorescences between the leaf-sheaths, emerging at the basal of the pseudo-stem, lacking coma bract, yellow flowers, presence of epigynous glands, and anther spurs make this plant most similar to, which are also distributed in this nearby area too. But differ in having leaves narrowly elliptic, narrower and shorter in size 18–36 × 6–8.5 cm, upper midrib reddish; thyrse shorter and smaller (5–6.5 cm long, 4–5 cm in diam.); peduncle glabrous; bracts per inflorescence 10–15 in number, fused almost only at base; corolla lobes white, longer and narrower 17–18.3 × 6–7.8 mm; staminodes uniquely obovate-rhombic; labellum ovate-trullate; filament 4.4–4.5 mm long; anther longer c. 8 mm long, spurs pointing outward in front view, with anther crest apex retuse (vs. C. rangsimae having leaves narrowly elliptic to oblanceolate, 40–70 × 12–20 cm, upper midrib green; thyrse 12–20 cm long, 7.8–9.5 cm in diam.; peduncle pilose; 25–48 in number, connate 1/4 to 1/3 at base; corolla lobes light pale yellow, 15–17 × 9–12 mm; staminodes asymmetrical trullate–ovate; labellum ovate; filament 6–7 mm long; anther 6.3–6.9 mm long, spurs pointing downward in from view, with anther crest apex rounded). Based on the results of the morphological comparison and examination of all allied species in the same genus were found to be inconsistent with any species, especially in the subgenus Ecomatae. A comprehensive description, illustration, photographs, ecology, etymology, distribution and a revised key to 21species of Curcuma subgenus Ecomatae in Thailand are provided.
Growth prediction of sago palm (Metroxylon sagu) in Thailand using the Linear Mixed-effect model
Authors: Jariyapong Malimas , Roongtawanreongsri Saowalak , Romyen Arisara , Somboonsuke Buncha
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Jariyapong M, Roongtawanreongsri S, Romyen A. Somboonsuke B, 2021. Growth prediction of sago palm (Metroxilon sagu) in Thailand using the Linear Mixed-effect model. Biodiversitas 22: 5293-5301. A living sago palm is a potential resource for carbon sequestration in peat swamp. It can provide benefits for agriculturists and environmental sustainability. This study’s aim is to create a growth prediction of sago palm size at individual ages using a linear mixed-effect model. The sample palms were selected from 43 sago palm parents which have been re-measured and recorded at intervals of 2-20 years. The experimental plot was on deep peat soil (with peat depth at over 2.5 m) at Phru Todaeng Swamp Forest, Southern Thailand. To find the best model for growth prediction, we used a traditional linear model (Model 1 and 4) and linear mixed-effect models (Model 2, 3, 5 and 6) to generate the relationship between age, diameter, and height. The best model was selected based on considering the smallest Akaike’s Information Criteria (AIC), the Bayes Information Criteria (BIC), and the absolute mean error (AME). The results showed the smallest values of AIC, BIC, and AME in Model 3 which produced the best model for predicting the total overall growth in sago palm. The age and diameter under the independent variable were statistically significant (? = 0.01); these two factors influenced the sago palm height rate. Hence, this model can be used to predict the overall growth of sago palms, which is useful for biomass estimation and calculating the carbon sequestration of planted sago palms. The carbon sequestration in living sago palm can be compared with other commercial crops for future benefit. This approach can lead to a future solution for wetland management and land-use changes.
Short communication: Vocalization of the Long-eared owl Asio otus (Strigiformes, Strigidae) in the Middle Volga, Russia
Authors: Andreychev Alexey Alexey , LAPSHIN ALEXANDER , KUZNETSOV VYACHESLAV
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Andreychev A, Lapshin A, Kuznetsov V. 2021. Short Communication: Vocalization of the Long-eared owl Asio otus (Strigiformes, Strigidae) in the Middle Volga, Russia. Biodiversitas 22: 5325-5330. Both daily and seasonal year-round vocalizations of the Long-eared owl (Asio otus) (Linnaeus, 1758) were recorded in the Middle Volga River region, Russia with the use of digital dictophones. Voice recorders were installed in the daytime for up to 5 days. The maximum duration of continuous operation of voice recorders was about 140 hours. By the time the previous recording was finished, we would arrive and move the recorder to a different location. The Long-eared owl can be classified as a moderately vocalizing bird, with calls recorded during 3 spring months. Peak activity is associated with pre-incubation and incubation periods. In the spring months, calls of the Long-eared owl were recorded from 16.37 h to 03.43 h. In the spring, the Long-eared owl began to cry before sunset (from 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes) and after sunset (from 56 minutes to 3 hours 39 minutes). Vocalization started after sunset for an average of 50 minutes. Vocalization always ended before dawn (to 1 h 21 min). Statistically significant differences in the duration of vespers and morning vocalizations were obtained with the use Mann-Whitney U test (Z = -3.08; p < 0.05).
Population and distribution of some herons in Babakan Rancabayawak, Bandung City, Indonesia
Authors: Megantara Erri Noviar , Husodo Teguh , Iskandar Johan , Nurjaman Deden , SUROSO Suroso , AMINUDDIN SYAHRAS FATHIN , Atsaury Zamzam I'lanul Anwar , Wulandari Indri , Shanida Sya Sya
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Megantara EN, Husodo T, Iskandar J, Nurjaman D, Suroso, Aminuddin SF, Atsaury ZIA, Wulandari I, Shanida SS. 2021. Population and distribution of some herons in Babakan Rancabayawak, Bandung City, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 5389-5396. The Cinambo River flood control channel in the Rancabayawak impacts the decline in the habitat quality of some herons, such as cattle egret [Bubulcus ibis (Linnaeus, 1758)], little egret [Egretta garzetta (Linnaeus, 1766)], and Javan pond-heron [Ardeola speciosa (Horsfield, 1821)]. Besides, many built-up areas due to the urbanization in peri-urban areas also impact habitat quality, such as the loss of plants commonly used as perching and nesting sites. Along with the development of Rancabayawak as a built-up area, it is essential to study the management of those birds. This study aims to reveal: 1) plants used as perching and nesting sites, 2) population size and distribution, and management efforts on B. ibis, E. garzetta, and A. speciosa in Babakan Rancabayawak Hamlet, Gedebage Subdistrict, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. A mixed-methods approach was applied in this study by calculating the estimated population and bird nests, plant inventory survey, and the installation of the A8 mini GPS. Bambusa vulgaris, Leucaena leucocephala, and Mimosa pigra are plants that are used as perching and nesting sites by B. ibis, E. garzetta, and A. speciosa. The estimated population mean of those birds was 630 individuals, 92 individuals, and 43 individuals, respectively, with the population average of those birds, is 1680 individuals. Three hundred twenty-nine nests (329) were found during the study. Based on distribution mapping, birds moved east and south, covering paddy fields in Rancaekek, Solokanjeruk, and Majalaya within a radius of 12 km. Management efforts can be conducted by not cutting down the plants that become nesting and perching sites and maintaining the wetlands in their habitats.
Flowering ability and expression of the shLFY (shallot-LFY) gene in several Indonesian shallot (Allium cepa, aggregatum group) varieties
Authors: IRAWAN JEKKI , DINARTI DINY , SUDARSONO SUDARSONO , MAHARIJAYA AWANG
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Irawan J, Dinarti D, Sudarsono, Maharijaya A. 2021. Flowering ability and expression of the shLFY (shallot-LFY) gene in several Indonesian shallot (Allium cepa, aggregatum group) varieties. Biodiversitas 22: 5468-5474. Indonesian shallots (Allium cepa, Aggregatum group) have different flowering abilities. The direction of seed development in the form of true seed shallot (TSS) makes the study of shallot flowering important to support its breeding program. Flowering genes’ presence and their expression demonstrate their significance in inducing flowering. This study aimed to determine the ability of the shLFY gene expression in four shallots varieties (Bima Brebes, Batu Ijo, Biru Lancor, and Sumenep) and the level of expression in each variety during the formation of flower primordia. The research was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with varieties as a single factor, for qRT-PCR relative expression data analysis using ??CT comparative method. The results showed that there were differences in flowering ability and the expression value of the shLFY gene between the tested shallot varieties. These differences also were shown within each variety when the umbels of varying ages were tested. There was a positive correlation between the ability to flower and the shLFY gene expression value. The greater shLFY gene expression will be followed by greater flowering ability. Bima Brebes was the variety with the highest flowering ability (91.66%) and highest shLFY gene expression value between other varieties.
Diversity, coverage, distribution and ecosystem services of seagrass in three small islands of northern Papua, Indonesia: Liki Island, Meossu Island and Befondi Island
Authors: Nugraha Aditya Hikmat , Tasabaramo Ilham Antariksa , Hernawan Udhi Eko , Rahmawati Susi , Putra Risandi Dwirama , Darus Robba Fahrisy
Published: February 2022

Nugraha AH, Tasabaramo IA, Hernawan UE, Rahmawati S, Putra RD, Darus RF. 2021. Diversity, coverage, distribution and ecosystem services of seagrass in three small islands of northern Papua, Indonesia: Liki Island, Meossu Island and Befondi Island. Biodiversitas 22: 5544-5549. Papua waters are one of the hot spot areas with high marine biodiversity in the world. Yet, the less accessible location and varying geographical conditions become the significant constraints of biodiversity study in this region, resulting in limited information about the diversity of marine resources, including the seagrass ecosystem. This research aims to investigate the diversity, coverage and distribution of seagrass in three small islands in the northern waters of Papua, namely Liki Island, Befondi Island, and Meossu Island, as well as to study the ecosystem services provided by the seagrass. This research is part of the Nusa Manggala Expedition, which was carried out in November 2018, consisted of seven observation stations. Data collection was conducted using the transect line method combined with plot quadrat. Information regarding seagrass ecosystem services was gathered through observation and direct interviews to the community. The results showed that there were seven species of seagrass in the studied sites, namely Cymodocea rotundata, Enhalus acoroides, Halodule uninervis, Halodule pinifolia, Halophila ovalis, Thalassia hemprichii, and Syringodium isoetifolium. Liki Island had the highest seagrass cover value of 82.24%, followed by Meossu Island and Befondi Island with seagrass cover of 63.23% and 31.25%, respectively. There were 13 seagrass ecosystem services identified in this research. The people of Liki Island and Meossu Island get the benefits of the existence of the seagrass ecosystem. The direct benefits are the presence of seagrass is associated with biota commonly used as food sources such as Siganus sp and sea cucumbers. There are efforts made by the community to maintain the sustainability of the seagrass ecosystem, which is known as sasi.
Short Communication: The potency of lytic bacteriophage isolated from various environments to control the growth of Citrobacter braakii causing urinary tract infection
Authors: SHEILAHRUSI SHEILAHRUSI , PRIYANTO JEPRI AGUNG , RISMIYATI HENI , RUSMANA IMAN , BUDIARTI SRI
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Sheilahrusi, Priyanto JA, Rismiyati H, Rusmana I, Budiarti S. 2021. Short Communication: The potency of lytic bacteriophage isolated from various environments to control the growth of Citrobacter braakii causing urinary tract infection. Biodiversitas 22: 5550-5554. Citrobacter braakii is one of the pathogenic bacteria causing urinary tract infection (UTI) in humans. Bacteriophages that are specifically infecting C. braakii could be the alternatives to combat antibiotics resistance cases of this bacterium. This study aimed to isolate lytic phages from various environmental samples (tofu factory wastewater, sewage water, rice field water, fishpond water, cattle farm wastewater, and goat farm wastewater), and to analyze their effectivity to reduce UTI-causing C. braakii population in vitro. Results exhibited that phages targeting this bacterium were found in goat and cattle farm wastewater and not present in other samples. Two phages, namely FC1 and FC2, had different plaque morphology characteristics. The number of phages in cattle farm wastewater was 2.8 × 105 PFU/mL and 1.32 × 104 PFU/mL in goat farm wastewater. It was observed that the phages found in these environments also indicate the presence of their host. After 8 h incubation, FC1 and FC2 phage reduced UTI-causing C. braaakii population in vitro from 0.23×108 CFU/mL to 0.03×108 CFU/mL and 0.02×108 CFU/mL, respectively. The phages isolated from these two samples can be further developed for the treatment of UTI caused by C. braakii and goat and cattle farm wastewater treatment to prevent contaminating other areas.
Vegetation and macrozoobenthos diversity in the Percut Sei Tuan mangrove forest, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Hasibuan Imam Mahdi , Amelia Rizka , Bimantara Yuntha , Susetya Ipanna Enggar , Susilowati Arida , Basyuni Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Hasibuan IM, Amelia R, Bimantara Y, Susetya IE, Susilowati A, Basyuni M. 2021. Vegetation and macrozoobenthos diversity in the Percut Sei Tuan mangrove forest, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 5600-5608. The mangrove forest offers a habitat for a variety of marine species, including macrozoobenthos. Macrozoobenthos live at the bottom of the waters on hard to muddy substrates, where they break down mangrove debris, ensuring microorganisms' ease in decomposing organic matter into inorganic materials that provide nutrients to producers in the water. The study aimed to determine the vegetation and macrozoobenthos diversity in the Percut Sei Tuan mangrove forest, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This research was executed with vegetation analysis, employing a sampling method in the form of plots, as many as three transects and 66 plots. The sampling of macrozoobenthos was conducted on the substrate surface, roots, and mangrove trunk for three stations and nine plots with a size of 1 m x 1 m. We found 10 true mangrove species where Avicennia marina was the most abundant, found at each seedling, sapling, and tree-stage with an important value index (IVI) of 64.62%, 75.73%, and 92.12%, respectively. Overall, the number of individuals in the species found was 1666.67/Ha at the seedling stage, 1090.91/Ha at the sapling stage, and 842.42/Ha at the tree stage. Seven macrozoobenthos species were found and classified into four classes of Gastropoda, Polychaeta, Mollusca, and Arthropoda, with population abundance values being 9.33 ind/m2 at a station I, 7.44 ind/m2 at station II, and 8.78 ind/m2 at station III. The diversity index (H') of the observed location was determined to be 1.63-2.06, which was classified into the medium category, while H' macrozoobenthos ranging from 1.54-1.81 were classified into the low to moderate category. The observed parameters' physical and chemical factors presented that the condition of the waters in the research area is still considered suitable for supporting macrozoobenthos life, with dissolved oxygen being strongly correlated to macrozoobenthos diversity.
The effects of introduction of the Sulawesi Endemic Stingless Bee Tetragonula cf. biroi from Sulawesi to Java on foraging behavior, natural enemies, and their productivity
Authors: Suhri Andi Gita Maulidyah Indraswari , Soesilohadi RC Hidayat , Agus Ali , Kahono Sih
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Suhri AGMI, Soesilohadi RCH, Agus A, Kahono S. 2021. The effects of introduction of the Sulawesi Endemic Stingless Bee Tetragonula cf. biroi from Sulawesi to Java on foraging behavior, natural enemies, and their productivity. Biodiversitas 22: 5624-5632. The existence of species in an environment has gone through a long adaptation process to the natural environment. This study aims to determine the behavior of bees, pollen types, natural enemies, and products of the Sulawesi endemic bee Tetragonula cf. biroi in its natural habitat and after being introduced to Java. This research was conducted in North Luwu and Bone District, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, as the native habitat. Purworejo, Magelang, and Bantul District in Java as an introduction site. The observation of foraging behavior was recorded by scan sampling method; pollen identification using the acetolysis method. Natural enemies were observed directly and through interviews with beekeepers. The results showed significant differences in the number of T. cf. biroi that returned to the nest between native and introduced habitats (p value < 0.05). Pollen collected by T. cf. biroi in Sulawesi were more varied in type. The woody plants and tall trees dominate the types of pollen they collect in Sulawesi. The pollen collected in Java was dominated by ornamental plants, intentionally grown as feed. The attack of Small hive beetle and black soldier flies larvae caused the colony of T. cf. biroi to die and not produce honey optimally. Another problem is the T. cf. biroi nest is taken over by the local bee Tetragonula laeviceps.
Morphological diversity of culturable cyanobacteria from habitats in Segara Anakan, Java, Indonesia
Authors: FITRI SITI GIA SYAUQIYAH , SUTARNO SUTARNO , SASONGKO HERU , RATNASARI MEI , SAFIRA SAFIRA
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Fitri SGS, Sutarno, Sasongko H, Hasbiyan, Ratnasari M, Safira. 2021. Morphological diversity of culturable cyanobacteria from habitats in Segara Anakan, Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 5617-5626. Cyanobacteria are Gram-negative bacteria that can undertake oxygenic photosynthesis. This ancient group of microorganisms is ubiquitous, occurs in freshwater, marine, cold, hot, and terrestrial habitats. Can survive on a minimum requirement of light, carbon dioxide (CO2), and water, and able to fix the atmospheric N2 are among of their unique characteristics. These have collectively offered these bio-agents as the precious bio-resource for sustainable development. A variety of cyanobacterial strains promise further advances in biotechnology, including as an alternative source of energy. Before its final use, cyanobacteria undergo several necessary bioprocesses, including strain isolation and selection. This study aims to isolate and identify culturable-cyanobacteria from several habitats in Segara Anakan, Cilacap, Indonesia. The current study is an outset step to obtain potential and suitable agents for biofuel production. Morphological identification using light microscopy showed that cyanobacteria found in samples from different habitats varied. There are 39 cyanobacterial isolates obtained from freshwater, brackish water, and rhizosphere-mangrove soil habitats. Some cyanobacteria are unicellular (Order Chroococcales, Synechococcales, Pleurocapcales), the others are filamentous cyanobacteria (Order Oscillatoriales). These cyanobacteria grow well on BG-11 media. Numerous re-streakings on fresh medium and treatments of ampicillin and nystatin as antibiotic and antifungal, respectively, were carried out to obtain pure cultures. The classification of cultured cyanobacteria has been problematic and complicated. The polyphasic approach was applied to justify the taxonomic classification of the isolates. It is a combination of different methods based on modern molecular, cytomorphological, and ecological methods.
Conservation implication and traditional ecological knowledge on trading bird: A case study in Depok bird market in Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: PUTRI FEBRIANA KINANTHI , ALICIA FITRI , NOVEN HELENA JOAN , SHOLIQIN MUCHAMMAD , HIMAWAN WIDHI , JAVARENDRA REVIDO AJI , LIZA NOR , PARTASASMITA RUHYAT , ISKANDAR JOHAN , NAIM DARLINA MD. , SETYAWAN AHMAD DWI
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Putri FK, Alicia F, Noven HJ, Sholiqin M, Himawan W, Javarendra RA, Liza N, Partasasmita R, Iskandar J, Naim DM, Setyawan AD. 2021. Conservation implication and traditional ecological knowledge on trading bird: A case study in Depok bird market in Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 5636-5647. Bird species have been the most popular animals in Indonesia for such a long time. Therefore, the demand for birds has been rising in urban areas. The bird species are usually traded, including selling and buying activities in urban bird markets. The increase of bird trading in Indonesia also increased Indonesian people's economic and social benefits. Consequently, there is a chance that many bird trading in bird markets are not managed carefully without preventing bird species extinction in rural ecosystems. This paper aimed to assess the conservation status of birds sold and the Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) of bird traders in Depok bird market in Surakarta (Solo), Central Java, Indonesia. The study used a qualitative method with the ethno-ornithological approach. The results showed that the diversity of birds encountered in the bird market of Depok was considered high, 55 species were recorded, representing 29 families. The Indonesian law protects seven bird species while 12 species are considered endemic. Moreover, 8 birds are included in IUCN Red List. The bird naming is based on particular categories agreed on in the local community. Furthermore, social involvement through education and local wisdom might profoundly impact conservation efforts to preserve the bird population.
Host range studies of Fusarium oxysporum, causal agent of seedling wilt disease of Acacia mangium
Authors: SOLEHA SOLEHA , MUSLIM AHMAD , SUWANDI SUWANDI , KADIR SABARUDDIN , PRATAMA RAHMAT
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Soleha S, Muslim A, Suwandi S, Kadir S, Pratama R. 2021. Host range studies of Fusarium oxysporum, causal agent of seedling wilt disease of Acacia mangium. Biodiversitas 23: 25-32. Fusarium oxysporum is a serious pathogen that causes severe wilt disease in commercial nurseries of Acacia mangium in South Sumatra, Indonesia. This study aimed to investigate the host range of F. oxysporum as a nursery wilt pathogen in A. mangium and several forest and industrial plants. Three isolates of F. oxysporum with different translation elongation factor (tef 1-a) sequences were tested for pathogenicity on different fabaceae family plants and the growth of population was also observed. The results showed that  all the three isolates were able to infect all the tested plants with different reactions of wilt disease. The Acacia crassicarpa and Falcataria moluccana were highly susceptible; Archidendron pauciflorum, Leucaena leucocephala, and Parkia speciosa were moderately vulnerable and Acacia auriculiformis was moderately resistant. The pathogen population in A. crassicarpa and F. moluccana grew rapidly along with the increase in disease scores, while  in L. leucocephala it was moderate, and slow in A. pauciflorum, P. speciosa and A. auriculiformis plants. In conclusion, F. oxysporum pathogen, which was isolated from A. mangium, has a wide range of hosts in the fabaceae family.
Learning objectives for medical student teaching in the operating theatre: surgeons’ experiences and factors influencing operative participation
Authors: Ravindra P , Fitzgerald JEF , Maxwell-Armstrong CA
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The operating theatre offers a unique and rich learning environment for medical students. Recent evidence indicates that medical student attendance at theatre teaching is low. There is limited evidence of the perceptions of the teacher in this environment. The aim of this study was to characterise the experiences of consultant surgeons when teaching medical students in theatre.

Methods

A 22-item self-administered survey was distributed to all surgical consultants in 5 specialties involved in the delivery of medical education at 5 hospitals associated with a single UK medical school. Responses were anonymous.

Results

Questionnaires were returned by 99 (64%) of the 154 surgical consultants. The majority (n=80, 80%) enjoyed teaching medical students in the operating theatre. Two-thirds (64%) set learning objectives for their students but a quarter (25%) did not feel that they knew what the curriculum expected students to learn. Two-thirds (65%) of the consultants stated that they would not let students perform procedures in theatre. Respondents suggested a total of 266 generic objectives that they would want medical students to learn. These were grouped by theme, with the most commonly cited learning objectives being clinical knowledge (44%), skills and procedures (29%), awareness of the room environment (18%) and appreciation of the patient journey (9%).

Conclusions

Surgeons are largely positive about delivering medical student teaching in the theatre environment. Teacher training with clearer communication between medical school faculty and surgical teachers may help facilitate objective setting to ensure students derive maximum benefit from this unique teaching environment.
Ms, Mr or Mx?
Authors: Chui K
Published: February 2022

The importance of titles and evolving language.
Face transplants 2003-2021: where are we now and what have we learnt?
Authors: Bound F , Ridley M
Published: February 2022

The complicated history of face transplantation.
Mental practice in surgical training
Authors: Rajaratnam V , Rahman NA , Omar UF , Ng HJH
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The traditional methods of surgical training through apprenticeship are evolving owing to time constraints and new models of surgical training. Surgical programmes have begun to encompass technological advances such as simulation technology and online courses to improve surgical skills in a safe environment. Simulation training is not universally available because of financial constraints. Mental practice (MP) and motor imagery (MI) is a form of mental rehearsal and simulation without the need for external inputs. It has been successful in sports and music, and is a time and cost effective strategy to improve skills. MP can be translated into surgical skill acquisition and the aim of this review was to provide a systematic narrative synthesis of the current literature to support the use of MP in surgical training.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar™ to identify studies published up to March 2020 on MP in surgical skill acquisition.

Results

Nineteen studies were included in the review. Thirteen demonstrated a significant improvement in the knowledge and performance of the participants in learning surgical skills after MP. There was improved confidence in surgical trainees after MP in three studies.

Conclusions

MP appears to be effective in aiding surgical skill acquisition and retention. There is lack of methodological rigour in the design and development of the mental script, which is an important component in MP. MP augments physical practice and is a viable strategy to enhance surgical training. However, further studies are required to demonstrate that these skills are transferable to clinical practice.
Use of a human factors analysis tool in the analysis of surgical ‘never events’
Authors: Howie E , Chisholm E , Coulston JE
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Human factors methodologies in investigating incidents have been employed in aviation and other industries for some time. The National Health Service is moving towards a thematic approach to incidents to reduce blame associated with investigations and to produce better focus for improvements so as to minimise the risk of repetition of serious events and patient harm.

Methods

All surgical ‘never events’ reported via the trust's incident reporting system between 2016 and 2020 were included for analysis. Serious incident investigation reports were analysed using the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFCAS) tool to identify corresponding nanocodes and associated levels of error.

Results

A total of 624 nanocodes were identified from 9 never events. There was a mean of 23 nanocodes (range: 14–27). Level 2 failures (preconditions for unsafe acts) followed by level 1 failures (unsafe acts) were the levels of HFACS associated with the highest number of nanocodes identified. The greatest number of individual nanocodes identified related to lack of teamwork (n=23) and failures of communication (n=21).

Conclusions

This study provides a thematic analysis of surgical never events using a validated human factors tool. It illustrates the complexity of error around such incidents and the common areas (levels) of failure. Utilisation of a human factors tool in assessing never events can give a more focused approach to improvement following these events with the aim of reducing the risk of further surgical never events and improving safety for surgical patients.
The smartest time of the year
Authors: Kerstein Ryan , Fries Anton , Kalu Peter
Published: February 2022

Our Techonologist compares the best of smartwatch technology and speaks to the companies behind the products.
Nature, costs and benefits of clinical travelling fellowships
Authors: Glazer Retired G , Cumberbatch L
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCTION

Many trainee doctors and consultants visit clinical units abroad for a period of specialised training. There are a number of grants available from professional and other bodies that provide a variable degree of financial assistance for these doctors but there is little information about the nature, costs and benefits of these training opportunities.

METHODS

This 11-year analysis of 385 applications to the Hospital Corporation of America International Foundation for financial support to train abroad was coupled with a detailed questionnaire to 127 UK doctors who received an award following an interview process.

RESULTS

There were an average of 11 annual awards, with a mean value of £5,600 (range: £1,000-£15,000). Trainees (predominantly ST7 and ST8 level) were the main applicants (60%) and award winners (71%). The applications were for variable time periods (from 1 month to over 24 months) and to clinical units throughout the world, the favoured locations being America, Canada and Australia. The surgical specialties were the most sought after for training (77%). There were 4.7 times more male than female applicants.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper discusses the benefits of travelling fellowships as recorded by grant recipients, three-quarters of whom were applying their overseas clinical experience back in the National Health Service. However, the overall costs of travel frequently exceed doctors' expectations and the need for extra financial support for overseas fellowships is clear.
Aiding right-hand dominant surgeons in left-handed use of scissors
Authors: Al Hussainy HA , See A
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCTION

Skilled right-hand dominant (RHD) surgeons will have no problem cutting sutures with the right hand but most would struggle to cut with the left hand. We introduce and validate a new technique along with one published previously to improve left-hand dexterity in RHD operating theatre staff.

METHODS

Forty-seven RHD theatre staff from our trust's trauma and orthopaedic department were recruited for this study. Participants were first asked to cut sutures with the left hand using no particular technique (control group), followed by a new technique (new group) and then a previously published technique (Fang group).

RESULTS

The use of both techniques improved the participants' ability to cut with their left hand. Only 7 participants (15%) were able to cut the sutures under control conditions while 37 (79%) and 42 (89%) were successful using the new technique and the Fang technique respectively (new group: p=0.007, Fang group: p=0.0001). No significant difference was detected between the two techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the new technique and the previously published technique to improve the dexterity of cutting sutures with the left hand in RHD surgeons are valid, effective and easy to master.
‘No one can whistle a symphony; it takes a whole orchestra to play it’
Authors: Crean St John
Published: February 2022

The return to normality is in sight, but we still need to keep cautious and be considerate of those around us, especially in the winter months.
A review of allergic contact dermatitis for dental professionals
Authors: Sahni Renee , Tattar Rajpal , Al-Habba Samer , Ariyaratnam Senathirajah , Barry Siobhan , Coulthard Paul , Patel Neil , Seoudi Noha , Walton Graham , Lear John T , Young Helen , Dave Manas
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCTION

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disorder that can present as an acute, subacute or chronic condition. This review highlights the burden of allergic contact dermatitis for dental professionals as well as discussing its cellular mechanism, clinical features, common causative agents in dentistry and treatment options.

FINDINGS

There are two main types of contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis accounts for 20% of reported contact dermatitis cases while the remainder are due to irritant contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is a type IV hypersensitivity reaction that affects 22-43% of dental professionals globally. There is limited literature on the impact of this condition on dental healthcare professionals. Moreover, with the increased and prolonged use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent occupational transmission of SARS-CoV-2, more healthcare professionals are presenting with allergic contact dermatitis against their PPE.

CONCLUSIONS

Allergic contact dermatitis is a prevalent occupational skin condition that can affect all members of the dental team, especially with the increased use of PPE due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dental professionals with signs and symptoms should seek relevant advice and reduce exposure to known allergens.
Oral cancer in Australia: regional and remote perspectives
Authors: Ramamurthy Poornima , Sharma Dileep , Thomson Peter
Published: February 2022

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a lethal and deforming disease of rising global significance. Detailed information on contemporary incidence, patient awareness and preventative strategies in Australia remains somewhat lacking, however. Geographic profiling has shown a high burden of disease in regional and remote areas compared with metropolitan districts, with Indigenous Australians in particular exhibiting a high incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma, reduced access to specialist treatment and ultimately, poor clinical outcomes. Strategies to deliver enhanced preventative techniques, improve diagnostic accuracy and encourage targetted interventional management for high risk populations in regional and remote communities are recommended
Autofocus of imaging ellipsometry
Authors: Guo Haiyan , Ibrahim Khaleel Mai , Chang Yia-Chung
Published: February 2022

Through polarized light interacting with samples, imaging ellipsometry
is capable of aiding in the study of semitransparent biological cells
microscopically; it is also possible to find applications in
marker-free nondestructive disease diagnosis. Often a living
biological cell is sensitive to environmental conditions, and fast
measurement is preferred. Fast and accurate locating of the focal
plane is important for biosensing. By analyzing our previous published
through-focus ellipsometry images for S.
mutans cells on Au film, we have found an efficient method of
locating the focal plane position, i.e., through edge detection of
cells in ellipsometry images. The method is not sample-dependent. As
the edges are decided only by a sample’s own features, the method is
robust against noise or small shifts of images. It is also easy to use
without the need to choose a threshold value as in the Laplace
filtering method. The method can be further useful for biosensing
applications.
Corneal transparency and scleral opacity arises from the nanoarchitecture of the constituent collagen fibrils
Authors: Tseng Snow H. , Yang Chih-Yao , Li Jia-Hao , Jeng Yung-Ming , Ranasinghesagara Janaka C. , Venugopalan Vasan
Published: February 2022

While human scleral and corneal tissues possess similar structural morphology of long parallel cylindrical collagen fibrils, their optical characteristics are markedly different. Using pseudospectral time-domain (PSTD) simulations of Maxwell’s equations, we model light propagation through realistic representations of scleral and corneal nanoarchitecture and analyze the transmittance and spatial correlation in the near field. Our simulation results provide differing predictions for scleral opacity and corneal transparency across the vacuum ultraviolet to the mid-infrared spectral region in agreement with experimental data. The simulations reveal that the differences in optical transparency between these tissues arise through differences in light scattering emanating from the specific nanoscale arrangement and polydispersity of the constituent collagen fibrils.
Fabrication tolerant coupling between silicon strip and subdiffraction V-groove waveguides
Authors: Tarik Farhan Bin , Ryckman Judson D.
Published: February 2022

We consider the problem of efficiently coupling light into a recently proposed all-dielectric subdiffraction waveguide exhibiting an ultra-small mode area (An ∼ 10−3

λ
0
2

), more than one order of magnitude lower than a diffraction limited strip waveguide (An ∼ 10−2

λ
0
2

). Two prospective coupling solutions are compared with respect to coupling efficiency, fabrication tolerance, and optical bandwidth. The strategy based on adiabatic mode evolution is shown to be superior with respect to fabrication tolerance as it preserves ≥99% efficiency under +/- 10 nm critical dimension (CD) variations, whereas the directional coupling approach achieves only ≥60% efficiency for the same CD errors. Similar results are obtained with respect to optical bandwidth, with the nominal adiabatic mode evolution and directional coupling based designs achieving >95% efficiency over wavelength ranges of >200 nm and ∼50 nm respectively. The superior performance of the adiabatic design requires a coupler length in the range L ≈ 100–250 µm. The results yield a high performance, compact, and straightforward design solution for efficiently interfacing between conventional diffraction limited waveguides and all-dielectric subdiffraction waveguides with an ultra-small mode area.
Confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modeling of the factor structure of the Questionnaire of Cognitive and Affective Empathy (QCAE)
Authors: Gomez Rapson , Brown Taylor , Watson Shaun , Stavropoulos Vasileios
Published: February 2022

The Questionnaire of Cognitive and Affective Empathy (QCAE) is a multiple dimensional measure of cognitive empathy [comprising primary factors for perspective taking (PT), online simulation (OS)], and affective empathy [comprising primary factors for emotion contagion (EC), proximal responsivity (PRO), and peripheral responsivity (PER)]. This study used independent clusters confirmatory factor analysis (ICM-CFA) and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) to examine the scale’s factor structure. A general community sample of 203 (men = 43, women = 160) between 17 and 63 years completed the QCAE. Although both the five-factor oblique and second order factor models showed good model fit, and clarity in the pattern of factor loadings, in the second-order factor model, none of the primary factors loaded significantly on their respective secondary factors, thereby favoring the five-factor oblique model. The factors in this model were supported in terms of external validity. Despite this, the factor for PRO in this model showed low reliability for meaning interpretation. A revised four-factor oblique model without the PRO factor showed good fit, clarity in the pattern of factor loadings, and reliability and validity for the factors in this model, thereby suggesting this to be the best model to represent ratings on the QCAE.
Evaluation of tourism competitiveness and mechanisms of spatial differentiation in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Liu Haijun , Hasan Mihray , Cui Dong , Yan Junjie , Sun Guojun
Published: February 2022

Evaluation of tourism competitiveness is useful for measuring the level of regional tourism development. It is of great importance to understand the advantages and disadvantages of tourism development correctly and formulate corresponding development strategies. To investigate tourism competitiveness, this paper established an evaluation index system, including tourism development competitiveness, tourism resource competitiveness, and tourism-support competitiveness, for 14 prefectures and cities in Xinjiang in China. The characteristics and laws of spatial differentiation were analyzed. Factor analysis was applied to examine the spatial differentiation of regional tourism competitiveness. The results showed an obvious spatial differentiation in tourism competitiveness among the 14 prefectures and cities. In terms of development competitiveness, Yili and Urumqi constituted the spatial center, followed by Changji, Altay, and Ba Prefecture. As the provincial capital, Urumqi has political, economic, cultural, transportation, and geographic advantages, but its competitiveness is not prominent in terms of monopoly and efficiency. In terms of resource competitiveness, Yili is the core attraction, while Urumqi, Kashgar, Altay, and Ba Prefecture are dominant attractions. With respect to supporting competitiveness, Bo Prefecture has high value, followed by Urumqi City and Aksu. Hetian and Ke Prefecture have the lowest values. The comprehensive competitiveness of tourism is centered on Yili. Urumqi and Bo Prefecture are subcenters, and Changji, Altay, Ba Prefecture, Aksu, and Kashgar are characterized as multi-polar competition areas. Using the KMO and Bartlett’s sphericity tests, the cumulative contribution variance of the eigenvalues of the eight factors extracted by the maximum variance rotation method was found to be 92.714%. Socio-economic conditions, tourism resources, infrastructure construction, regional cultural influence, ecological environment carrying capacity, tertiary industry development, tourism service level, and living security system are the main driving factors affecting the spatial differentiation of tourism competitiveness in Xinjiang. Analyzing the spatial evolution characteristics and the driving factors of the regional tourism competitiveness in Xinjiang, this paper seeks to promote the optimal allocation of tourism production factors in the macro regional system, and provide theoretical guidance and an empirical basis for the comprehensive and harmonic development of regional tourism.
Re-evaluation of NCGR Davis Ficus carica and palmata SSR profiles
Authors: Frost Richard
Published: February 2022

To date all public records of F. carica SSR profiles are from NCGR Davis. Prior studies of this data have not been received well because several of the stated relationships do not match what is observed in the field. Upon examination of the prior authors methods it is found that the 1979 Nei similarity measures are not valid distance metrics for the profiles thus invalidating their analysis of genetic distance. Further, the data are tensor in nature and it is shown here that "flattening the data" for use in a vector method will change the problem under study. Consequently the present analysis focuses on geometric, statistical, and biostatistical tensor-based methods–finding that only the latter produces results matching what is manually observed among the profiles. Combining this with historical breeding records and morphologic observations reveals that a modest portion of the profiled accessions are mislabeled–and also reveals the existence of previously undocumented close relations. Another area of concern in the prior studies is the statistical partitioning of the complete graph of distances to define clades. In the present analysis it is shown that genetic clades cannot be defined in this profile collection due to lack of cohesion in nearest neighbor components. It is also shown that it is presently intractable to significantly rectify gaps in the sample population by profile enrichment because the number of individuals in an entire population within the estimated profile distribution exceeds 1014. The profiles themselves are found to have very few occurrences of common values between the 15 loci and thus according to Fisher’s theory of epistatic variance no correlation to phenotype attributes is expected–a result verified by the original investigators. Therefore further discovery of appropriate markers is needed to fully capture geno- and pheno-type characteristics in F. carica and F. palmata SSR profiles.