bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parental unemployment and children's educational attainment: How big is the role of aspirations?
Authors: Mari Gabriele
Published: June 2023

Children exposed to parental unemployment have been found to lag behind in school, but research has struggled to pin down the underlying explanation. One hypothesis is that parental unemployment may dampen children's aspirations to do well and go far in school. Yet, few studies on parental unemployment have relied on actual measures of children's aspirations or devised a formal analysis of this mechanism. Using the UK Household Longitudinal Study (Waves 1–12, N = 1067), I investigate the role of educational aspirations in children's General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) attainment. I compare adolescents exposed to parental unemployment before or only after the typical age at which GCSE exams are taken. In adjusted models, children exposed to parental unemployment before their GCSEs are around 6 percentage points less likely to attain any GCSE qualification by age 17. On average, children have high educational aspirations, although intentions to enrol in college or university are relatively lower among children exposed to an early spell of parental unemployment. Nevertheless, a hypothetical intervention setting these aspirations to the same level for all children only accounts for a modest portion of the educational penalty tied to an early spell of parental unemployment. Several sensitivity and robustness tests support this conclusion. This note seeks to stimulate more research on the mechanisms underpinning the intergenerational effects of unemployment. Findings cast doubts on the idea that children's aspirations, the target of broader policy discourse and interventions, are a crucial part of the equation.
Manufacture of loaf‐type processed cheese products using transglutaminase crosslinked micellar casein concentrate and milk protein concentrate
Authors: Salunke Prafulla , Biswas Ananya C , Metzger Lloyd E
Published: June 2023

The aim of this research was to determine the effect of transglutaminase (TGase; 0, 0.3 and 3.0 units/g of protein) crosslinked micellar casein concentrate (MCC) and milk protein concentrate (MPC) on the functionality of process cheese product (PCP) loaf‐type formulation. The results showed that TGase significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased viscosity after manufacture. Higher TGase levels also significantly (P ≤ 0.05) affected post‐manufacture melt characteristics such as melt viscosity and melt area measured using a rapid visco analyser and Schreiber melt test respectively. The study shows that the TGase treatment alters meltability of PCP.
Endoscopic grading of gastric atrophy and histological gastritis staging on risk assessment for early gastric cancer: A case–control study
Authors: Chen Min , Liu Xiao Lei , Zhu Xiao Jing , Wu Si Ran , Wang Na , Li Song Bo , Zhang Li Feng , Liu Jun Ye , Shi Yong Quan
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To assess the predictive value of endoscopic grading of gastric atrophy using Kimura–Takemoto classification, histological grading systems of operative link on gastritis assessment (OLGA) and operative link on gastric intestinal metaplasia (OLGIM) on risk stratification for early gastric cancer (EGC) and other potential risk factors of EGC.

Methods

A single‐center, case–control study was retrospectively conducted including 68 patients with EGC treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection and 68 age‐ and sex‐matched control subjects. Kimura–Takemoto classification, OLGA and OLGIM systems, and other potential risk factors were evaluated between the two groups.

Results

Of the 68 EGC lesions, 22 (32.4%) were well differentiated, 38 (55.9%) were moderately differentiated, and 8 (11.8%) were poorly differentiated, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed O‐type Kimura–Takemoto classification (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.282, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.106–9.744, P = 0.032) and OLGIM stage III/IV (AOR 17.939, 95% CI 1.874–171.722, P = 0.012) were significantly related to a higher risk of EGC. Especially, O‐type Kimura–Takemoto classification within 6–12 months before EGC diagnosis (AOR 4.780, 95% CI 1.650–13.845, P = 0.004) was independently associated with EGC risk. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the three systems for EGC were comparable.

Conclusions

Endoscopic Kimura–Takemoto classification and histological OLGIM stage III/IV are independent risk factors for EGC, which may reduce the need for biopsies in risk stratification of EGC. Further multicenter prospective studies of large sizes are needed.
Persistent median artery on computed tomographic arteriovenous fistulograms in patients on haemodialysis
Authors: Tee Qiao Xin , Stuckey Stephen , Lau Kenneth K
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Cadaveric studies suggest an increasing prevalence of the persistent median artery (PMA) over a prolonged timeframe. The aim of this retrospective cross‐sectional study was to evaluate the PMA prevalence in haemodialysis patients who had computed tomographic fistulograms (CTFs), and if present, their calibres and origins.

Methods

All consecutive adult patients referred for an upper limb CTFs for assessment of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) dysfunction from 2006 to 2021 were included. Patients whose CTF did not include the forearm were excluded. PMA was identified as an artery running alongside the median nerve between flexor digitorum superficialis and flexor digitorum profundus. Patient demographics, presence of PMA including size and origin were recorded.

Results

A PMA was found in 91/170 (53.5%) CTFs (7:3 male‐to‐female ratio, mean age 71‐years). When stratified by age, prevalence increased with decreasing age; 51% in >70‐year‐olds, 54% in 50–70‐year‐olds and 67% in <50‐year‐olds. The average PMA diameter was 2.2 mm proximally and 1.8 mm distally. No stenosis was observed in the PMAs.

Conclusion

The PMA prevalence appears to increase with decreasing age and is a frequently encountered anatomical variant. Radiologists assessing forearm vasculature need to be aware of this anatomical variant and potentially include it in their future reports. Further research into the PMA may make its potential use as arterial conduits for AVF, potential donor grafts for coronary artery bypass surgery or additional vascular access options possible. Whether the reducing prevalence with age reflects an overall increasing prevalence is yet to be determined.
Experimental Research on Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Fracturing of Sedimentary Rock: A Critical Review
Authors: ZHENG Bowen , QI Shengwen , LU Wei , GUO Songfeng , WANG Zan , YU Xin , ZHANG Yan
Published: June 2023

Supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO2) fracturing has great advantages and prospects in both shale gas exploitation and CO2 storage. This paper reviews current laboratory experimental methods and results for sedimentary rocks fractured by ScCO2. The breakdown pressure, fracture parameters, mineral composition, bedding plane angle and permeability are discussed. We also compare the differences between sedimentary rock and granite fractured by ScCO2, ultimately noting problems and suggesting solutions and strategies for the future. The analysis found that the breakdown pressure of ScCO2 was reduced 6.52%–52.31% compared with that of using water. ScCO2 tends to produce a complex fracture morphology with significantly higher permeability. When compared with water, the fracture aperture of ScCO2 was decreased by 4.10%–72.33%, the tortuosity of ScCO2 was increased by 5.41%–70.98% and the fractal dimension of ScCO2 was increased by 4.55%–8.41%. The breakdown pressure of sandstone is more sensitive to the nature of the fracturing fluid, but fracture aperture is less sensitive to fracturing fluid than for shale and coal. Compared with granite, the tortuosity of sedimentary rock is more sensitive to the fracturing fluid and the fracture fractal dimension is less sensitive to the fracturing fluid. Existing research shows that ScCO2 has the advantages of low breakdown pressure, good fracture creation and environmental protection. It is recommended that research be conducted in terms of sample terms, experimental conditions, effectiveness evaluation and theoretical derivation in order to promote the application of ScCO2 reformed reservoirs in the future.
Vasoactive Inotropic Score compared to the sequential organ failure assessment cardiovascular score in intensive care
Authors: Pölkki Anssi , Pekkarinen Pirkka T. , Lahtinen Pasi , Koponen Timo , Reinikainen Matti
Published: June 2023

Background

The cardiovascular component of the sequential organ failure assessment (cvSOFA) score may be outdated because of changes in intensive care. Vasoactive Inotropic Score (VIS) represents the weighted sum of vasoactive and inotropic drugs. We investigated the association of VIS with mortality in the general intensive care unit (ICU) population and studied whether replacing cvSOFA with a VIS‐based score improves the accuracy of the SOFA score as a predictor of mortality.

Methods

We studied the association of VIS during the first 24 h after ICU admission with 30‐day mortality in a retrospective study on adult medical and non‐cardiac emergency surgical patients admitted to Kuopio University Hospital ICU, Finland, in 2013–2019. We determined the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for the original SOFA and for SOFAVISmax, where cvSOFA was replaced with maximum VIS (VISmax) categories.

Results

Of 8079 patients, 1107 (13%) died within 30 days. Mortality increased with increasing VISmax. AUROC was 0.813 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.800–0.825) for original SOFA and 0.822 (95% CI: 0.810–0.834) for SOFAVISmax, p < .001.

Conclusion

Mortality increased consistently with increasing VISmax. Replacing cvSOFA with VISmax improved the predictive accuracy of the SOFA score.
Epidemiology of sperm DNA fragmentation in a retrospective cohort of 1191 men
Authors: Yazdanpanah Ghadikolaei Parisa , Ghaleno Leila Rashki , Vesali Samira , Janzamin Ehsan , Gilani Mohammad Ali Sadighi , Sajadi Hesamoddin , Dizaj Ahmad Vosough Taghi , Shahverdi Abdolhossein , Drevet Joël R. , Moghadam Masouleh AliReza Alizadeh
Published: June 2023

Background

The scientific and clinical communities now recognize that sperm DNA integrity is crucial for successful fertilization, good embryo development, and offspring quality of life. Despite the apparent unanimity, this criterion is rarely evaluated in clinical practice. We evaluated the sperm DNA fragmentation index of nearly 1200 sperm samples and its connections based on the patient's age, body mass index, the season of sperm collection, geographical location, medical history, and addictive behaviors.

Methods

A cohort of 1503 patients who were referred to the Royan Institute between July 2018 and March 2020 was examined. Only 1191 patient records with demographic data, complete semen analysis, and DNA fragmentation index measurements were included in the final cohort. Documents were classified, incorporated into statistical models, and analyzed.

Results

The results confirmed previous findings that the sperm DNA fragmentation index was significantly higher in aging men. The sperm DNA fragmentation index and high DNA stainability levels were significantly higher in spring and summer samples than in those of other seasons. No correlation was found between semen DNA fragmentation index and patient body mass index, although the study cohort was significantly overweight. Contrary to what might be expected, we observed that the sperm DNA fragmentation index was higher in rural than in urban patients. Intriguingly, epileptic patients exhibited significantly higher sperm DNA fragmentation index levels.

Discussion and conclusion

Age is the factor that is most strongly associated with sperm DNA fragmentation index levels. Our analysis of 1191 samples indicates that between the ages of 19 and 59, the sperm DNA fragmentation index increases by an average of 2% each year. Intriguingly, from an epidemiological perspective, the warm season (spring/summer) is associated with a higher sperm DNA fragmentation index in the study population, possibly due to the deleterious effect of temperature on sperm quality. Some neurological diseases, such as epilepsy, are associated with decreased sperm DNA integrity. This observation could be related to the iatrogenic effects of associated therapies. In the study cohort, body mass index did not appear to be correlated with the DNA fragmentation index.
Successful treatment with laparoscopic extended posterior sectionectomy for inflammatory pseudotumor in the liver with para‐aortic lymphadenitis
Authors: Takagi Shinya , Morise Zenichi , Katsuno Hidetoshi , Kikuchi Kenji , Nakamura Kenichi , Endo Tomoyoshi , Ochi Takayuki , Matsuo Kazuhiro , Yasuoka Hironobu , Nishimura Akihiro , Nishijima Aki
Published: June 2023

Inflammatory pseudotumor (IPT) is a rare disease that requires a differential diagnosis from malignancies. We describe a case of hepatic IPT with para‐aortic lymphadenopathy, treated with a stepwise strategy of laparoscopic surgery. A 61‐year‐old woman was referred with a liver lesion. Computed tomography revealed a 13 cm well‐defined lesion in segments VII–VI. The patient also had bead‐like enlarged lymph nodes from the perihilar to the para‐aortic regions. Although percutaneous lymph node biopsy showed no evidence of malignancy, 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography revealed accumulation in the lesion and lymph nodes. Lymph nodes were harvested laparoscopically for intraoperative pathological examination. With no evidence of malignancy, laparoscopic liver resection was continuously performed as a diagnostic treatment. The patient was given a pathological diagnosis of IPT and was discharged on the 16th day and is well 2 years after surgery. The minimally invasive laparoscopic approach to diagnostic treatment could be useful with secure advantages.
Evaluation of the Prescribing Skills Assessment implementation, performance and medical student experience in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Chin Paul K. L. , Charles Kellie , Murnion Bridin , McGuire Treasure M. , Hilmer Sarah N. , Martin Jennifer , Reith David , Joyce David , Lucas Catherine , Holford Nick , Day Richard , Schneider Jennifer , Doogue Matthew , Han Catherine H. , Herd Sarah , Harrison Claire , O'Mara Deborah
Published: June 2023

Aims

The UK Prescribing Safety Assessment was modified for use in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) as the Prescribing Skills Assessment (PSA). We investigated the implementation, student performance and acceptability of the ANZ PSA for final‐year medical students.

Methods

This study used a mixed‐method approach involving student data (n = 6440) for 2017–2019 (PSA overall score and 8 domain subscores). Data were also aggregated by medical school and included student evaluation survey results. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and multivariate analyses. The pass rate was established by a modified Angoff method. Thematic analyses of open‐ended survey comments were conducted.

Results

The average pass rate was slightly higher in 2017 (89%) which used a different examination to 2018 (85%) and 2019 (86%). Little difference was identified between schools for the PSA overall performance or domain subscores. There was low intercorrelation between subscores. Most students provided positive feedback about the PSA regarding the interface and clarity of questions, but an average of 35% reported insufficient time for completion. Further, 70% on average felt unprepared by their school curricula for the PSA, which is in part explained by the low prescribing experience; 69% reported completing ≤10 prescriptions during training.

Conclusion

The ANZ PSA was associated with high pass rates and acceptability, although student preparedness was highlighted as a concern for further investigation. We demonstrate how a collaboration of medical schools can adapt a medical education assessment resource (UK PSA) as a means for fulfilling an unmet need.
A kinetic model for positive allosteric modulator (PAM)‐antagonists for the type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptor
Authors: Yang Liang , Zhu Xiao , Finlay David B. , Green Hayley , Glass Michelle , Duffull Stephen B.
Published: June 2023

Background and Purpose

The cannabinoid (CB1) receptor is among the most abundant G protein‐coupled receptors in brain. Allosteric ligands bind to a different site on receptors than the orthosteric ligand can have effects that are unique to the allosteric ligand and modulate orthosteric ligand activity. We propose a unified mathematical model describing the interaction effects of the allosteric ligand Org27569 and the orthosteric agonist CP55940 on CB1 receptor.

Experimental Approach

A ternary complex model was constructed, which incorporated kinetic properties to describe the time course of effects of Org27569 and CP55940 reported in the literature: (i) enhanced receptor binding of CP55940, (ii) reduced internalisation and (iii), time‐dependent modulation of cAMP. Underlying mechanisms of time‐dependent modulation by Org27569 were evaluated by simulation.

Key Results

A hypothetical transitional state of CP55940–CB1–Org27569, which can internalise but cannot inhibit cAMP, was shown to be necessary and was sufficient to describe the allosteric modulation by Org27569, prior to receptors adopting an inactive conformation. The model indicated that the formation of this transitional CP55940–CB1–Org27569 state and final inactive CP55940–CB1–Org27569 state contributes to the enhanced CP55940 binding. The inactive CP55940–CB1–Org27569 cannot internalise or inhibit cAMP, leading to reduced internalisation and cessation of cAMP inhibition.

Conclusions and Implications

In conclusion, a kinetic mathematical model for CB1 receptor allosteric modulation was developed. However, a standard ternary complex model was not sufficient to capture the data and a hypothetical transitional state was required to describe the allosteric modulation properties of Org27569.
Educators and synoptic prudentialism: Educator reflections on educator training, student surveillance and using technology for student outreach
Authors: Adorjan Michael , Ricciardelli Rosemary
Published: June 2023

Surveillance plays several interrelated and essential roles in contemporary education. In the current article, we explore the understandings and experiences of educators related to surveillance; especially the ‘vertical’ surveillance ‘from below’ students themselves direct towards educators both inside and outside of the classroom (referred to as ‘sousveillance’). We also explore the prudential ‘intrapersonal’ and reflexive surveillance undertaken by educators to align and adjust to the expectations of educator professionalization, including during educator training, especially in terms of their social media use and under a context of synoptic prudentialism in schools. Synoptic prudentialism refers to the reflexive actions and adjustments by individuals and organizations in response to an acute awareness of widespread social surveillance—the many watching the few. Educators noted risks posed by surveillance, including sources of potential harm, both personal and professional. Findings reveal that, reinforced by the legal scare stories encountered during educator training programs, educators feel overwhelmingly vulnerable to the potential sousveillance of students, and are receiving little advice beyond the requirement to ‘be careful’. We explore educators’ privacy management strategies in response, for example, in response to concerns over students capturing videos in the classroom where situations may be taken out of context. This prudential framework, moreover, may also be inhibiting educators’ ability to conduct outreach with students to detect and respond to online mediated conflict and harm.
Caregivers' perspectives on the impact of the Group Triple P‐Positive Parenting Program in Pakistani orphanages
Authors: Khalid Amina , Morawska Alina , Turner Karen M. T.
Published: June 2023

Children living in the orphanages of low‐ and middle‐income countries often face maltreatment and inadequate caregiving, and caregivers are unprepared and lack training for their role. This study involved a qualitative design with a thematic analysis approach, consisting of focus group discussions with 14 caregivers working in Pakistani orphanages who had participated in Group Triple P. Four main themes emerged: caregiving skills enhancement, behavioural outcomes, personal wellbeing and change in relationships. Findings suggested that the Group Triple P was beneficial in improving the perceived wellbeing of caregivers by equipping them with parenting skills which enhanced caregivers' self‐confidence in handling challenging caregiving situations. Group Triple P promoted the use of positive caregiving practices that reduced emotional and behavioural problems in children under their care, along with building a positive child–caregiver relationship. It also fostered a supportive environment in the orphanages by building respectful relationships among caregivers and the orphanage administration.
Perinatal diagnosis of congenital urogenital sinus abnormality
Authors: Fiorentino Riccardo , La Bella Saverio , Chiavaroli Valentina , Cauzzo Chiara , Di Credico Simona , Miscia Maria Enrica , Lauriti Giuseppe , Lisi Gabriele , Chiarelli Francesco , Di Valerio Susanna
Published: June 2023

Anomalies of the urogenital sinus, which is a transient feature of the early human embryological development, are rare birth defects. Urogenital sinus abnormalities commonly present as pelvic masses, hydrometrocolpos, or ambiguous genitalia and most commonly occur within the context of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Anomalies of the urogenital sinus requires surgical repair. We experienced a case of a female newborn with congenital urogenital sinus abnormality in which the early diagnosis helped us to prevent complications by decompressing the vagina soon after birth. Antibiotic prophylaxis was sufficient to avoid infections and to decompress the genitourinary system, thus allowing a deferred elective surgery to correct the sinus.
The 2022 European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) global snapshot audit of faecal incontinence: Study protocol
Authors:   European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) Collaborating Group, Dulskas Audrius
Published: June 2023

Aim

Faecal incontinence (FI) is a common problem, affecting about 9% of Western populations. However, only a few patients seek consultation and the number of such patients reaching hospital care is unknown. Current treatment pathways are poorly evidence based and are thought to vary greatly between different countries. This audit will study the incidence of patients presenting to coloproctologists with FI, current practice including diagnostics, conservative and surgical techniques across different units in Europe and worldwide. The aim is to explore the incidence of FI in patients attending colorectal surgical clinics, treatment choices and accessibility to diagnostic tools/advanced treatments across the international cohort. Outcomes to be measured include the volume of FI patients consulting clinical practice per surgeon, patient demographics, and diagnostics and intervention details.

Method

An international multicentre snapshot audit will be performed. During the study period all consecutive eligible patients will be included over an 8‐week period between 9 January and 28 February. Data will be entered and saved in a Research Electronic Data Capture secured database. Moreover, two short physician and centre‐level surveys will be filled for current practice evaluation. The results will be published in international journals and will be prepared in accordance with guidelines set by the STROBE (strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology) statement for observational studies.

Discussion

This multicentre, global prospective audit will be delivered by consultant colorectal and general surgeons as well as trainees. The data obtained will lead to a better understanding of the incidence of FI and treatment and diagnostic possibilities. This snapshot audit will be hypothesis generating and inform areas that need future prospective study.
Bond‐blockholders and corporate acquisitions
Authors: Chung Chune Young , Joo Sunghoon , Kang Sanggyu
Published: June 2023

Research Question/Issue

We examine whether bond‐blockholders provide additional, distinct monitoring roles in merger and acquisition (M&A) processes beyond those of equity‐blockholders. Using a sample of 4309 M&A deals reported between 2001 and 2010, we shed new light on the monitoring spillover effects of bondholders to shareholders in the context of M&As.

Research Findings/Insights

Our findings demonstrate a positive relationship between the presence of bond‐blockholders (or a change in their position) and acquiring firms' abnormal return announcements, which supports the monitoring spillover effects from bondholders to shareholders in M&A processes. Our subsample analyses indicate that bond‐blockholders are better monitors of (1) overconfident CEOs engaging in M&As, (2) CEOs exhibiting risk‐taking behavior in M&As, and (3) entrenched managers participating in M&As. Moreover, we discover a positive association between the previous quarter's changes in “monitoring” bond‐blockholders' positions and the acquiring firms' 3‐day cumulative abnormal returns (CARs).

Theoretical/Academic Implications

In corporate finance literature, equity‐blockholders have long been recognized as effective monitors. Despite the importance of debt as most firms' primary funding source, the benefits of debt for monitoring the efficiency of managers and their organizations have been largely overlooked in the existing literature. Thus, this study provides evidence on the additional and distinct monitoring roles of bond‐blockholders beyond those of equity‐blockholders in M&A processes and the impact of bond‐blockholders on shareholders' wealth around M&A announcements.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study offers insights to policymakers interested in enhancing the legitimacy of corporate governance on the monitoring spillover effects of bondholders to shareholders in the context of M&As. In addition, our findings suggest that bondholders can have a long‐term perspective beyond the limited time horizon of bond maturity and influence M&A processes positively. Thus, this study has significant implications for managers and practitioners interested in which investors positively affect M&As.
High SNRPA1 expression leads to poor prognosis in patients with lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Juan Juan , Yang Yu Jia , Gu Yi Lu , Tong Li , Liu Yi Fei , Zhang Jian Guo
Published: June 2023

Objective

SNRPA1, a subunit of spliceosome complex, has been implicated in diverse cancers, while its biological effect in LUAD remains elusive. Therefore, we sought to decipher the relationship between SNRPA1 expression and the prognosis of patients with LUAD and reveal the underlying molecular mechanism.

Materials and methods

Based on the clinical data from TCGA databases, the multivariate Cox model was constructed to screen the prognostic value of SNRPA1. qRT‐PCR and immunohistochemical staining were used to examine SNRPA1 mRNA and protein expression in LUAD. The effect of SNRPA1 on LUAD cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial mesenchymal transformation were examined using colony formation assays, wound healing, and western blot assays, respectively. Finally, the influence of SNRPA1 on LUAD immune microenvironment were validated from the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource database.

Results

SNRPA1 was significantly upregulated in both LUAD tissues and cell lines, and highly expressed SNRPA1 contributed to poor prognosis of LUAD patients. In vitro, SNRPA1 knockdown inhibited the proliferation and migration, as well as delayed the EMT differentiation of LUAD cells. Lastly, SNRPA1 was found to be positively associated with immune infiltration and some immune‐check‐point markers.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that SNRPA1 may be a new biomarker for prognostic prediction and a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of LUAD.
Developing a clinical research infrastructure embedded in an academic medicine center that equitably supports future clinician scientists
Authors: Holsti Maija , Keenan Heather T. , Kadish Howard A. , Sapiro Heather K. , Giardino Angelo P. , Osborn Katharine A. , Cline Kristen L. , Byington Carrie L.
Published: June 2023

Clinical research in academic medical centers can be difficult to conduct and meet enrollment goals. Students under‐represented in medicine (URiM) are also under‐represented in academic leadership positions and as physician‐scientists but are critical to help solve health disparities. Barriers in pursuing medicine as a career may be high for URiM students, therefore it is important to create pre‐medicine opportunities accessible to all students interested in healthcare careers. We describe an undergraduate clinical research platform, the Academic Associate (AcA) program, embedded in the medical system that supports clinical research for academic physician scientists and provides students equitable access to experiences and mentoring opportunities. Students have the opportunity of completing a Pediatric Clinical Research Minor (PCRM) degree. This program satisfies many pre‐medicine opportunities for undergraduate students, including those URiM, and allows access to physician mentors and unique educational experiences for graduate school or employment. Since 2009, 820 students participated in the AcA program (17.5% URiM) and 235 students (18% URiM) completed the PCRM. Of the 820 students, 126 (10% URiM) students matriculated to medical school, 128 (11%URiM) to graduate school, and 85 (16.5% URiM) gained employment in biomedical research fields. Students in our program supported 57 publications and were top‐enrollers for several multicentered studies. The AcA program is cost‐effective and achieves a high level of success enrolling patients into clinical research. Additionally, the AcA program provides equitable access for students URiM to physician mentorship, pre‐medical experiences, and an avenue to early immersion in academic medicine.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic drug–drug interactions between evogliptin and empagliflozin or dapagliflozin in healthy male volunteers
Authors: Kim Dasohm , Choi Minkyu , Jin Byung Hak , Hong Taegon , Kim Choon Ok , Yoo Byung Won , Park Min Soo
Published: June 2023

Evogliptin (EV) is a novel dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP4i) for glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study evaluated the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) interactions between EV and sodium glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in healthy volunteers since combination therapy of DPP4i and SGLT2i has been considered as an effective option for T2DM treatment. A randomized, open‐label, multiple‐dose, two‐arm, three‐period, three treatments, two‐sequence crossover study was conducted in healthy Korean volunteers. In arm 1, subjects were administered 5 mg of EV once daily for 7 days, 25 mg of empagliflozin (EP) once daily for 5 days, and the combination once daily for 5 days (EV + EP). In arm 2, subjects were administered 5 mg of EV once daily for 7 days, 10 mg of dapagliflozin (DP) once daily for 5 days, and the combination once daily for 5 days (EV + DP). Serial blood samples were collected for PK analysis, and oral glucose tolerance tests were conducted for PD analysis. In each arm, a total of 18 subjects completed the study. All adverse events (AEs) were mild with no serious AEs. The geometric mean ratio and confidence interval of the main PK parameters (maximum concentration of the drug in plasma at steady state and area under the plasma drug concentration‐time curve within a dosing interval at a steady state) between EV and either EP or DP alone were not significantly altered by co‐administration. Administration of EV + EP or EV + DP did not result in significant PD changes, as determined by the glucose‐lowering effect. Administration of EV + EP or EV + DP had no significant effects on the PK profiles of each drug. All treatments were well‐tolerated.
Just Desserts: The Morality of Food Waste in America
Authors: Reno Joshua , Alexander Kelly
Published: June 2023

Food, waste, and food waste are embroiled in a wide array of political and moral debates in the United States today. These debates are staged across a range of scales and sites—from individual decisions made in front of refrigerators and compost bins to public deliberations on the U.S. Senate and House floors. They often manifest as a moral panic inspiring a range of Americans at seemingly opposed ends of the political spectrum. This article contrasts three distinct sites where food waste is moralized, with the aim of deconstructing connections between discarded food and consumer ethics. In doing so, we argue that across the contemporary American social strata, food waste reduction efforts enfold taken‐for‐granted ideas of moral justice, or theodicy, that foreground individual responsibility and, as a result, obfuscate broader systemic issues of food inequality perpetuated by late stage capitalism.
An interview on energy, Christian theology, and ethics with Larry Rasmussen
Authors: Rowe Terra Schwerin , Rasmussen Larry L.
Published: June 2023

An interview with Larry Rasmussen on his and others' work on Christian energy ethics. The introduction to the interview gives a brief outline of Christian energy ethics. Rasmussen then reflects on this body of scholarship, where it has been, where it needs to go, and what perspectives or methods it should draw on.
Artful Inquiry for Uncertain Times
Authors: Friis Silje Alberthe Kamille , Mølhave Annegrete
Published: June 2023

If mental health enables us to reshape the world, we need design approaches that value and prioritize this within the actual process.

Imagine reconnecting with some of the things you loved as a kid—arts and nature—as a means to cope with the stresses of today's world and flourish as a designer!
Challenges for Design Approaches Applied to the Expanded Field of Design
Authors: Barros Gil
Published: June 2023

Our society currently faces several difficulties in social, environmental, and economic issues that are highly complex, interrelated, and pose risks to local and global stability and sustainability.

Design plays a different and expanded role in the world today than it traditionally has, but it faces challenges on the path to its strategies being widely adopted.
Communicating Visions for Design: the STOVE Framework
Authors: Carey Hillary , Blume Mia
Published: June 2023

What makes visions of new possibilities powerful is creating tension between the present state and a potential future.

Storytelling is an integral part of bringing ideas to life. Here, a business tool is modified to help designers communicate their visions more effectively.
We Need to Address Design's Likability Problem
Authors: Barua Priyama
Published: June 2023

I believe the likability factor is creating a barrier to entry, affecting diversity in the field—and overall design outcomes are suffering.

This provocative opinion piece explores the topic of likability, how it creates barriers for those trying to break into design, and strategies for overcoming the bias it engenders.
Are political and economic integration intertwined?
Authors: Bratsberg Bernt , Facchini Giovanni , Frattini Tommaso , Rosso Anna Cecilia
Published: June 2023

Economic incentives play a key role in the decision to run for office, but little is known on how they shape immigrants' self‐selection into candidacy. We study this question using a two‐period Roy model, and show that if returns to labour market experience differ between migrants and natives, then this will affect the relative likelihood to run for office for the two groups. We assess this prediction empirically using administrative data from Norway, a country with a very liberal regime for participation in local elections. Our results strongly support our theoretical model and indicate that immigrants' political and economic integration are closely intertwined.
Artificial fruits and nuts for studying predation of cryptic prey: a case of 3D‐printed coffee berries for studying predation of coffee berry borer by flat bark beetles
Authors: Liang Pei‐Shih , Ladizinsky Nicolas C. , Asmus Glenn , Hamilton Lindsey J. , Acebes‐Doria Angelita L. , Manoukis Nicholas C. , Follett Peter A.
Published: June 2023

Studying the effects of predation in cryptic herbivorous insects is difficult because many spend all or most of their life cycle inside their host plant. Here, we designed and 3D‐printed artificial coffee berries to study predation of coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), by the flat bark beetle, Cathartus quadricollis (Guerin‐Meneville) (Coleoptera: Silvanidae). The 3D‐printed berries were tested under laboratory and field conditions and the results confirmed the usefulness of 3D‐printed materials to create life‐like models for studying predation.
Predatory arthropods and cues associated with predator presence elicit strong non‐consumptive effects on bluegrass billbugs
Authors: Wickwar Desireè M. , Ramirez Ricardo A.
Published: June 2023

Turfgrasses hosts a diverse community of predators that contribute to herbivore suppression. However, there is little evidence that predators directly consume a common turfgrass herbivore, the billbug (Sphenophorus sp.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Given low rates of direct consumption by predators, prospects for strong non‐consumptive effects in billbugs were underappreciated. However, this assumed lack of non‐consumptive effects presupposes that herbivorous prey, like billbugs, can identify predators and the level of threat that they pose. Here, we examined this assumption and quantified the extent to which exposure to predators and predator cues altered the behavior (predator avoidance, feeding, and mating) of bluegrass billbug, Sphenophorus parvulus Gyllenhal. First, using a series of behavioral assays within microcosms, we exposed billbugs to predators – Pterostichus melanarius (Illiger) (Coleoptera: Carabidae), Harpalus sp. (Coleoptera: Carabidae), Philonthus sp. (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), and Hogna sp. (Araneae: Lycosidae) – singly and in combination to measure the effect of contact with predators and potential synergy among predator species pairs. Indirect exposure to predators, predator odor, and non‐predatory arthropods were also used to measure effects of various predator cues on billbug behavior. In subsequent Y‐tube choice assays we determined whether billbugs discriminated between filtered air and predator odor to isolate chemical signaling as a potential mechanism for billbug predator detection. Direct exposure to predators increased billbug predator avoidance (up to 201%), and decreased billbug feeding (down to −78%), though no predation was observed. Similar behavioral changes were observed when billbugs were exposed indirectly to a predator, and to predator odor. In Y‐tube assays billbugs avoided predator odor, further suggesting billbugs use chemical cues to detect predator presence and that these may be a driver in their observed behavior. Our results show that billbugs exhibit strong non‐consumptive effects, even in the absence of strong direct consumptive effects. These results provide the foundation for further research concerning the role of chemical signaling in billbug predator detection.
Fish functional biotic simplification in a Neotropical reservoir: An approach from the ichthyoplankton
Authors: Gogola Tatiane Mary , da Silva Pedro Rogério Leandro , Maciel Anderson Luiz , Baumgartner Dirceu , Piana Pitágoras Augusto , Sanches Paulo Vanderlei
Published: June 2023

Ecosystem services provided by communities are related to the diversity of functional traits, and biotic functional simplification occurs when this diversity is reduced. Thus, we used the approach of functional indices, applied to the abundance of fish larvae and traits of the spawning stock, to evaluate the spatial and temporal variations in the functional diversity of the fish community of a Neotropical reservoir. The following hypotheses were tested: (i) different environmental conditions between reproductive periods lead to temporal variations in the functional diversity of the community, and (ii) the spatial heterogeneity (longitudinal and lateral) of the environmental conditions formed in the reservoir causes functional biotic simplification to occur from lotic towards lentic areas since the original community was formed by rheophilic species. Larval collections were carried out monthly, at night, between October and March, from 2009 to 2016, with plankton nets equipped with a flowmeter in nine sample areas categorised into three longitudinal zones (fluvial‐FLU, transition‐TRA and lacustrine‐LAC) and three sides (upper‐UPP, middle‐MID and lower‐LOW). Water samples were obtained to measure the temperature and turbidity. Precipitation and reservoir quotas were obtained from official agencies. After the identification of captured larvae, we determined which species were present and used the functional traits of the adults (parental stock), obtained from specialised literature, and functional richness (FRic) and its corresponding standardised effect size (SES.FRic) were computed. The spatiotemporal variations in these indices were evaluated through the two‐way block factorial MANOVA/ANOVA. Their association with environmental variables was inferred through multiple linear regression models. Altogether, 51,995 larvae were captured with the highest abundance in the period V, longitudinally in LAC and TRA and laterally in LOW. Among these, the functional indices were higher in periods IV and V. The highest values of FRic occurred longitudinally in FLU and laterally in LOW. Among the abiotic conditions, rainfall and water temperature were the most influential variables over functional indices and total larvae abundance. The results indicate that fish reproduction is linked to spatiotemporal variations in abiotic conditions confirming our first hypothesis. The second hypothesis was partially supported because functional biotic simplification was observed in the longitudinal gradient, with reductions in FRic in LAC. However, this reduction was not observed in the lateral gradient. We showed that the temporal variability of abiotic conditions is important for the high functional diversity of reservoirs.
Possible role of IL‐23 inhibitor in autoimmune hemolytic anemia
Authors: Premnath Naveen , Pandey Urvashi , Pandey Mohak , Venuprasad K.
Published: June 2023

Rituximab and prednisone are commonly used treatments for autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), where the body's immune system attacks and destroys its red blood cells. However, some AIHA patients may become refractory to rituximab treatment, and this can result in continued hemolysis and persistent anemia, making it challenging for affected individuals to manage their symptoms. The underlying causes of rituximab refractoriness in AIHA patients can be complex and vary from patient to patient. Herein, we present a case of newly diagnosed warm and cold AIHA that remained in remission with an interleukin‐23 inhibitor.
A solanum beetle on a fabaceous weed: Possible rapid progress of adaptation to a novel host‐plant in a geographical context
Authors: Fujiyama Naoyuki , Ueno Hideki , Kahono Sih , Hartini Sri , Katakura Haruo
Published: June 2023

Our knowledge on how the local distribution pattern of ordinary and novel hosts promotes or hinders the progress of adaptation to the novel hosts by phytophagous insects is limited. The herbivorous ladybird beetle Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) depends mainly on solanaceous plants as hosts; the major wild host of this beetle species in Java, Indonesia, is Solanum torvum. However, in several regions of Southeast Asia, including Java, H. vigintioctopunctata also occurs on the introduced fabaceous weed, Centrosema molle. Circumstantial evidence indicates that the use of C. molle by beetles became frequent in the very early 2000s in East Java. In the present study, based on laboratory and field data obtained from 2003 to 2005, we evaluated the degree of adaptation to C. molle by H. vigintioctopunctata populations from East Java and documented the geographic pattern of host‐plant distribution in East Java. Laboratory experiments revealed that the beetles from East Java possessed the highest degree of adaptation to C. molle among the beetle populations thus far investigated, suggesting that the adaptation to C. molle by beetles proceeded quite rapidly in East Java in the early 2000s. Meanwhile, field surveys showed that the habitats in East Java consisted of mosaics with sites where only C. molle was distributed and sites where C. molle and solanaceous plants co‐occurred. We discussed the role of such geographical structure of habitats in promoting the rapid adaptation of H. vigintioctopunctata to C. molle in East Java.
Effects of non‐proportionality and tension–compression asymmetry on the fatigue life prediction of equivalent stress criteria
Authors: Kuhn Michael , Manousides Nikolas , Antoniou Alexandros , Balzani Claudio
Published: June 2023

Biaxial tension/compression–torsion fatigue tests with varying levels of non‐proportionality were performed employing a structural adhesive designed for wind turbine rotor blades. The cycles to failure were found to be independent of the level of non‐proportionality. It is demonstrated that numerical fatigue life predictions via rainflow‐counted equivalent stress histories are not able to replicate these experimental observations and overestimate the fatigue life up to a hundredfold. The tension–compression asymmetry of the adhesive resulted in significant damage prediction differences depending on the stress space representation of the Haigh diagram. If not properly taken care of, the asymmetry will also lead to non‐conservative results. While demonstrated with a short fiber‐reinforced adhesive, the results can be transferred to other materials.
Effect of drugs on nutritional status and drug–nutrition interactions in older patients
Authors: Kuzuya Masafumi
Published: June 2023

Older patients are prone to multimorbidity or related polypharmacy, which may cause various adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and a high incidence of drug‐related health problems. Although not often noted, ADRs include nutrition‐related adverse reactions. Aging, multiple illnesses, mental and psychological problems, declining physical function, and environmental factors can lead to decreased food intake and increased metabolic stress in older people, resulting in energy imbalances that cause malnutrition. ADRs can lead to appetite loss, followed by decreased food intake, which in turn causes malnutrition and deficiencies of various nutrients. However, these nutrition‐related ADRs have received less attention. This review article describes drug–nutrition interactions, with a particular focus on older patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 465–477.