bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular phylogenetic analysis and taxonomy of the Palearctic Pamphagidae grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acridoidea) based on DNA markers
Authors: Sukhikh Igor , Bugrov Alexander , Chobanov Dragan , Fet Victor , Biryukov Mikhail , Blinov Alexander
Published: February 2025

Achieving a commonly accepted phylogeny of the grasshopper family Pamphagidae proves to be challenging using only morphology-based analysis. So far, discussions about status and phylogenetic placement of taxa within this family did not yield a clear picture of evolutionary history of the Pamphagidae. However, a large amount of DNA sequences has been amassed in the available databases, offering a good opportunity to utilize molecular methods to clarify phylogenetic relationships among the Pamphagidae.

Analyzing sequences of two mitochondrial genes, COI and COII, we constructed a new phylogenetic tree for three (out of five) subfamilies of the Pamphagidae. Total of 83 Pamphagidae species were used in the analysis. These subfamilies form six clades; while most species fall into their recognized genera and tribes, the relationships between some tribes and subfamilies fail to concur with a currently accepted phylogeny. Our data suggest a separate position of the tribe Tropidauchenini as opposed to the rest of the subfamily Pamphaginae, while the tribe Nocarodeini appears to represent a higher taxonomic rank than a tribe, which might suggest its possible position as subfamily. The current paper is the first step on a road to a comprehensive phylogenetic study of the Pamphagidae family. The differences in commonly accepted classification compared to our data suggests that further study is necessary to uncover true evolutionary story of this complex family of Orthoptera insects.
Jesuit Connoisseurs and Collectors of Ancient Coins before Joseph Eckhel
Authors: Awianowicz Bartosz B.
Published: February 2025

As early as 1635, Jesuit Claude Clément (1596–1642) recognized coins as “minted historical sources” and an essential complement to the library. However, it was not until the latter half of the seventeenth century that Jesuits became prominent members of the “Republic of Medals,” the European network of coin and medal connoisseurs and collectors. This article aims to explore the varied contributions of Jesuits to numismatics up to the mid-eighteenth century. Among the first prominent figures were the French Jesuits Louis Jobert (1637–1719), a collector of ancient coins and author of the bestseller La science des médailles (The science of medals), and Jean Hardouin (1646–1729), a controversial scholar who employed ancient coins to to study historical chronology. In the eighteenth century, the most significant numismatic works were produced by Viennese Jesuits: Erasmus Frölich (1700–58), Joseph Khell von Khellburg (1714–72), and later, Joseph Eckhel (1737–98). Preceding them, the Jesuits of Graz published Synopsis rei nummariae veterum (Synopsis of the monetary system of the ancients; 1724), a unique numismatic textbook written in hexameter. Jesuits also maintained substantial institutional and private collections, particularly within their colleges.
Effects of Exercise Training on Body Composition and Exercise Capacity After Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Jingru , Jo Unyong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Bariatric surgery is a widely used treatment for obesity; however, it may be associated with certain complications. Effective postoperative management, including lifestyle interventions and exercise training, is essential for optimal outcomes. This study explores the effectiveness of exercise training in postoperative care.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase up to April 3, 2024. Articles were screened and data extracted based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0, and data were analyzed with Stata 15.0.

Results

Twenty-three articles involving 1940 patients were included; 16 were analyzed quantitatively. Exercise training did not significantly reduce body weight compared to routine care (WMD: −0.26; 95% CI, −2.11 to 1.58; I2 = 54%), but it significantly reduced fat mass (WMD: −2.42; 95% CI, −3.50 to −1.34; I2 = 42.9%) and maintained lean mass (WMD: 1.40; 95% CI, 0.32 to 2.48; I2 = 0.0%). Additionally, it reduced waist circumference (WMD: −2.58; 95% CI, −4.43 to −0.73; I2 = 13.4%) and improved exercise capacity (VO₂ max: WMD: 1.88; 95% CI, 0.64 to 3.13; I2 = 0.0%).

Conclusion

While exercise training did not significantly lower body weight post-surgery, it effectively reduced fat mass, maintained lean mass, and improved waist circumference and exercise capacity. Given the limited sample sizes in most studies, further large-scale controlled trials are warranted for more definitive conclusions, along with further consideration of their long-term impact on health metrics.
Fragmentation, Administration, and Isolation? Evidence on Principal Time Use from Large-Scale Observations in Four Urban Districts
Authors: Grissom Jason A. , Santelli Francisco Arturo , Loeb Susanna
Published: February 2025

Purpose: We describe urban school principals’ time use, including their time allocation across work tasks and locations, and how time use varies by school context. Research Method: Trained observers recorded leaders’ time use in five-minute increments over full school days in four urban school districts. The full sample included approximately 650 daylong observations. We employed descriptive methods and linear regression to describe patterns in time use within and across districts. Findings: Patterns in typical time use were surprisingly similar across districts. The average principal spent nearly a quarter of the workday on administrative tasks, crowding out time on instruction, relationships, and other task domains. Time allocations were fragmented, with frequent task-switching throughout the day. Principals spent more time in their offices than anywhere else and nearly half their days working alone, on average. Principals also spent an unexpectedly high proportion of their days (nearly 20%) in the presence of students. Principals at higher-achieving schools spent more time on relationships, and time spent on safety and discipline was positively associated with the share of Black students in a school. Implications: Our study echoes some themes established in studies of principal time use five decades ago. Despite calls for school leaders to reorient their work towards classroom instruction, urban principals’ time on administration and alone in their offices remains high, their time on instruction is limited, and their time continues to be fragmented. These conclusions hold across district settings. Substantial reallocation of principal time in urban schools likely takes investing in both structural changes and tools to help principals disrupt well-established time investment patterns. At the same time, context matters, and time use differences across schools with different characteristics suggest a need to prepare and support principals to meet diverse time demands at different schools even within the same district.
Domain-General and Domain-Specific Antecedents of Pre-Algebraic Knowledge: Focusing on English-Language Learners With Word-Problem Difficulty
Authors: Lin Xin , Powell Sarah R.
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the extent to which domain-general and domain-specific antecedents contributed to pre-algebra’s initial level and growth rate among students who experience word-problem difficulty (WPD). We examined if such a profile differs for English-language learners (ELLs; n = 75) and non-ELLs ( n = 55) with WPD. We assessed 130 students at the beginning of Grade 3, end of Grade 3, and middle of Grade 4. The latent growth curve analyses revealed only word-problem solving emerged as a predictor of pre-algebraic growth across ELLs and non-ELLs. English-language learners’ stronger computational skills, along with their cognitive flexibility, potentially enabled them to effectively leverage working memory and nonverbal reasoning in acquiring pre-algebraic knowledge.
Enhancing Groundstrokes Velocity and Accuracy in Post-pubertal and Adult Tennis Players: A Systematic Review of Interventions
Authors: Martín-Miguel Iván , Escudero-Tena Adrián , Bustamante-Sánchez Álvaro , Conde-Ripoll Rafael
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to gather a compilation of intervention studies that address whether there are ways to get post-pubertal and adult tennis players of intermediate or higher level to enhance the velocity and accuracy of their groundstrokes. After searching Web of Science, Scopus, and SportDiscus, 10 articles were analyzed. Findings from training protocol studies revealed that strength endurance sessions or medicine ball throws do not significantly affect the speed or accuracy of serves, forehands, and backhands. Similarly, wristbands with small weights used during on-court training also did not impact performance, without compromising technical tennis skills. However, a 6-week strength training program involving medicine ball throws or heavier rackets improved forehand stroke speed but reduced hitting accuracy. Additionally, vision training improved accuracy and speed in forehands, accuracy in backhands, and both accuracy and speed in serves. High-intensity interval training that included hitting drills did not improve stroke accuracy and temporarily reduced stroke speed and efficiency during sessions, although it increased maximal aerobic power. Notably, the use of motor imagery during recovery periods in high-intensity-interval-training helped maintain on-court performance. Proper training periodization leads to better adaptations and improvements. The studies also identified that grunting was found to improve stroke speed during forehand and backhand strokes without affecting perceived exertion, oxygen consumption, or fatigue. Regarding supplementation, a 10-week creatine regimen did not significantly affect serve speed, forehand speed, or backhand speed. These findings aim to optimize tennis players’ performance by identifying effective training strategies.
Exploring the Unknown together: Companionship Traveling Increases Preference for Mystery Offerings
Authors: Xu Zhicheng , Cheng Jin , Tong Yao , Li Jiamin , Ye Maolin
Published: February 2025

Despite the appeal of mystery offerings in tourism, knowledge about when such tactics may benefit or backfire is limited. This research examines the role of travel context (companionship vs. solo traveling) in tourists’ choice of mystery (vs. non-mystery) offerings. Across five studies (total n = 1,335), the authors find that when traveling with companions, tourists have a higher preference for mystery offerings than when traveling solo. This effect emerges across various tourism contexts (hotel accommodations, restaurant consumption, and destination choice) and in different countries (United States and China). The findings further suggest that diffusion of responsibility mediates this effect. Importantly, this effect is mitigated for those with an independent self-construal. This study enriches our understanding of mystery offerings in tourism, and offers actionable insights for practitioners to effectively utilize mystery offering strategies.
Transformative Outcomes of Workcation: Satisfaction, Place Attachment, and Behavioral Intentions
Authors: Shin Hakseung , Sharma Abhinav , Nicolau Juan Luis , Lee Jinhee
Published: February 2025

Integrating work with vacation—a workcation—may yield favorable psychological and behavioral outcomes for individuals. This research examines the key psychological dimensions of workcation experiences, namely, workcation satisfaction, place attachment, and transformation, by exploring their impact on re-workcation and revisit intentions. Two analyses offer complementary findings. Study 1 qualitatively identified the key psychological and behavioral outcomes of workcations including place attachment, transformation, re-workcation intentions, and revisit intentions. Building on these insights, Study 2 quantitatively analyzed the relationships among these outcome variables and found that individuals with strong emotional ties to a workcation destination are more likely to experience transformative outcomes. This transformation, in turn, fosters sustained interest in both future workcations and revisiting the destination for leisure purposes. These findings underscore the complex interplay between psychological factors and behavioral outcomes, revealing how emotional connections to a place can drive continued engagement with workcation experiences.
The marks of an apostle
Authors: Lewis David
Published: February 2025

Recent writings by Emanuel Prinz and Alison Goldhor have sought to develop a ‘blueprint’ for mission trainers on the basis of personality traits and spiritual competencies of movement catalysts. This article re-examines the basis on which such assertions are made, not only in terms of questionable methodology but also in the extent to which Western-based psychological models are relevant for other cultural contexts. It also discusses the dangers of toxic leadership and suggests some biblically based criteria for identifying such people.
Dynamics of Family Exchanges: How Life Course Transfers Influence Support From Adult Children
Authors: Reyes Adriana M. , Patterson Sarah E.
Published: February 2025

The relationship between a parent and child is one of the most enduring relationships over the life course. Older parents may rely on their adult children for support as they age. We leverage data from the Health and Retirement Study (1998–2018) to assess the dynamics of family exchanges by examining multiple types of parent exchanges and later child behavior in parent-child dyads at the onset of a parent’s health limitations. Using logistic regression models, we find overall support for reciprocity, as adult children are more likely to help parents who helped them. We find that co-residence and financial transfers, but not grandchild care and being in the will, are associated with reciprocity, but patterns vary by cohort. More recent cohorts did not apply reciprocity to co-residence or financial transfers. This study highlights the importance of tracking change across time in patterns of intergenerational exchange.
Behavioral Reputations of Elementary Students With or at Risk for Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Granger Kristen L. , Ross Erica , Reichel Meghan , Edelman Sophie
Published: February 2025

Elementary school students with or at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) are likely to experience social difficulties and challenges with peer relationships (e.g., victimization, rejection, isolation, and negative peer influence). A particularly salient influence on students’ classroom-based social experiences is how they are perceived by their classmates. The current study examined the extent to which the behavioral reputations of K to third-grade students identified as with or at risk for EBD (focal students; n = 26) differed from their classmates ( n = 120). Results revealed that focal students had poorer behavioral reputations among the domains of Starts Fights, Says Mean Things, Nice, Cooperates, and Gives the Teacher a Hard Time; and that these reputations were stable over time. Interestingly, there were no differences between focal students and their classmates for the reputation of being Picked On. Implications and limitations are discussed.
Extracellular vesicles: their challenges and benefits as potential biomarkers for musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Sung Soo-Eun , Seo Min-Soo , Park Wook-Tae , Lim Young-Ju , Park Sangbum , Lee Gun Woo
Published: February 2025

Early diagnosis and timely management are critical for determining disease outcomes and prognoses. To date, certain methods for developing disease-specific biomarkers have been reported; however, strategies for musculoskeletal disease-specific biomarker development have rarely been studied. Recent studies have highlighted the potential application of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as disease-specific biomarkers. EVs encapsulate proteins, lipids, messenger RNAs, and microRNAs derived from their cellular origin; these constituents remain stable within the EVs and can traverse the blood–brain barrier. Because of these distinctive characteristics, EVs have been actively investigated as diagnostic tools for various conditions, including cancer, inflammatory diseases, and musculoskeletal disorders. Although EVs have many advantages for biomarker development, they have not yet been fully researched in the context of musculoskeletal pathologies. The current review aimed to highlight the potential of EVs in the development of disease-specific biomarkers, summarize the processes of EV biomarkers, and discuss current limitations and future perspectives of EVs as biomarkers.
Regional Priorities in Palliative Care Research: Adapting the Delphi Technique for the Philippines
Authors: Toledo John Patrick C.
Published: February 2025

This correspondence emphasizes the use of the Delphi technique to set regional priorities in palliative and end-of-life care research. It offers a structured framework to develop research that aligns with the most pressing needs of patients and providers. This approach can be adapted to improve palliative care in resource-limited settings such as the Philippines.
Motor Recovery After Surgical Neurolysis in Brachial Plexus Neuropathy: A Case Study and Systematic Review
Authors: Carrillo-Ruiz José Damián , Armas-Salazar Armando , Navarro-Olvera José Luis , García-Jerónimo Ana Isabel , Cid-Rodríguez Fátima Ximena , Rodríguez José Antonio , González-Morales Hannia Fernanda , Abarca-Rojano Edgar
Published: February 2025

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the motor outcomes of patients undergoing surgical neurolysis and to conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature to ascertain the efficacy and utility of this technique. Surgical neurolysis is a procedure designed to liberate an injured nerve from scar tissue or adjacent structure, thereby facilitating nerve regeneration in cases of brachial plexus neuropathy (BPN). Methods: This study presents a case series of patients diagnosed with BPN who underwent surgical neurolysis. The primary focus was on the clinical assessment of recovery using the British Medical Research Council motor grading scale (BMRC). Additionally, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to analyze motor recovery outcomes related to surgical neurolysis for BPN. 18 patients with BPN who underwent surgical neurolysis were included. Results: It was experienced a notable increase of 58% in muscle strength as assessed by the BMRC. The average preoperative state of 2.17 ± 1.15 improved significantly to a postoperative condition of 3.44 ± 1.34 (p = 0.003, d = 0.913) The systematic review identified 2298 relevant articles, out of which 8 articles published between 1995 and 2021 were selected for qualitative analysis, demonstrated that surgical neurolysis was associated with favorable motor recovery outcomes in 75.82% of the patients. Conclusions: Both the case series and the literature review reveal significant motor recovery following surgical neurolysis. It is crucial to conduct well-designed, adequately powered, randomized, and blinded clinical trials. Such studies will provide robust evidence to support or refute the utility of this approach in motor recovery.
An autonomous driving decision-making framework for joint prediction and planning in unsignalized intersection scenarios
Authors: Zhang Shupei , Sun Pengju , Pang Ying , Zhang Wei , Wang Lingde
Published: February 2025

Unsignalized intersections present one of the most challenging environments in autonomous driving due to their complex traffic scenarios. Safely and efficiently navigating these uncertain settings remains a significant research hurdle. To tackle this issue, this paper proposes an End-to-End Autonomous Driving Decision Framework (EJPP) based on the interactive fusion of prediction and planning modules. The framework accurately predicts future trajectories of surrounding vehicles to facilitate optimal path planning. The EJPP framework consists of prediction and planning modules. The prediction module integrates vehicle acceleration as implicit behavioral intent and utilizes Pearson correlation coefficients to comprehensively consider complete information interactions among vehicles, thereby mitigating potential trajectory uncertainties. Moreover, a temporal attention mechanism is incorporated to capture critical temporal features from historical trajectories and enhance prediction accuracy. Within the planning module, trajectories of autonomous vehicles are planned separately in the lateral and longitudinal directions using the Frenet coordinate system. By integrating vehicle dynamics into cost functions encompassing safety, comfort, and efficiency, both soft and hard constraints are designed to optimize the optimal route. The proposed framework is validated through closed-loop training across various traffic flow scenarios to assess its performance. Results indicate that the framework enables autonomous vehicles to traverse unsignalized intersections safely and efficiently.
Isokinetic profile of the wrist flexors and extensors in young women and men
Authors: Shemy Eitan , Okada Takashi , Arnon Michal , Peleg Smadar
Published: February 2025

Background

Isokinetic studies of wrist flexion and extension (WFE) have been conducted mostly in the concentric mode. However, the eccentric counterpart is of specific importance in strength profiling while both modes are differently expressed in women and men.

Objective

to characterize the isokinetic concentric and eccentric isokinetic strength of the dominant side WFE, in a group of healthy young women and men and explore their respective internal and external relationships.

Methods

20 women and 20 men were tested while standing with forearm in neutral position, using a RoM of 60° and a speed of 120°/s for both contraction modes. Isometric grip strength was measured using a standard apparatus.

Results

Men were significantly stronger than women, the flexors significantly stronger than the extensors and the eccentric strength significantly higher than its concentric counterpart. A correlation matrix based on the concentric and eccentric peak moments of the WFE revealed that men had significantly higher correlation coefficients compared to women.

Conclusions

While supporting the efficiency of the test position, the significant sex-related difference in the strength correlations pattern may reflect an acquired-adaptive trait but this assumption requires further research.
The Neural Basis of Visual Search in Scene Context
Authors: Peelen Marius V.
Published: February 2025

Humans are highly efficient in finding objects in their structured, daily-life environments. Behavioral studies have demonstrated that this efficiency is supported by expectations derived from scene context. Here, I review neuroimaging studies that have started to reveal the neural basis of contextual influences on visual search for objects. These studies point to a central role for the object-selective visual cortex (OSC) in mediating multiple types of contextual influences. Supporting the attentional guidance by scene context, activity patterns in the OSC reflect global contextual expectations about target location and represent local nontarget objects that are contextually associated with the target. Preparatory activity patterns in the OSC also incorporate contextual expectations about target appearance (e.g., object size) during the preparation phase of visual search. In addition to supporting attentional guidance, object representations in the OSC are directly facilitated by scene context, and this facilitation is causally linked to object-identification performance. Finally, activity patterns in the anterior OSC integrate representations of distractor objects that are positioned according to familiar configurations, thereby reducing scene complexity. Together, these studies show how attention and expectation interactively drive preparatory activity and jointly modulate the visual processing of potential targets, providing a neural basis for the efficiency of search in scenes.
Lessons for the Next Pandemic: What Children Taught Us About Navigating New Social Norms During COVID-19
Authors: Warneken Felix , McAuliffe Katherine
Published: February 2025

Research on children’s responses to preventive health behaviors during COVID-19 provides insights of both practical and theoretical importance: Understanding how children reason about preventive behaviors is crucial for developing effective public-health campaigns. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic presented us with a unique natural experiment for examining children’s emerging sociomoral reasoning in the face of rapidly changing norms and social practices. Here we summarize empirical findings from a series of experiments testing how children reason about preventive health behaviors such as mask-wearing and physical distancing that were introduced during COVID-19. Across these studies, we found that children apply sociomoral principles to interpret these novel behaviors. By as young as the age of 5 years, children are well equipped to adapt to novel norms and social practices by thinking through the trade-offs and social consequences of these new behaviors in a surprisingly mature and practical way. At the same time, political views of families and communities are reflected in children’s endorsement of preventive behaviors. We conclude with suggestions on the way developmental research can contribute to our knowledge of how to successfully prepare for public-health responses in anticipation of potential future pandemics.
Palpation-based scapular dyskinesis test: Inter-and intra-rater reliability and clinical advantages
Authors: Kim Jian , Kim Young Kyun
Published: February 2025

Background

The Scapular Dyskinesis Test (SDT) is typically conducted using either real-time visual observation or video analysis. However, factors such as restricted shoulder mobility, higher body mass index (BMI), patient-centred care, and cultural considerations may impact the reliability of SDT results. Palpation offers an alternative approach that addresses these limitations by providing additional tactile information on joint function and dysfunction.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and potential benefits of the palpation-based SDT.

Methods

Videotaped, real-time visual observation, and palpation-based SDTs were conducted on 55 patients to assess the reliability and potential advantages of the palpation technique.

Results

The inter-rater reliability of the palpation-based SDT was almost perfect ( k = 0.82), while intra-rater reliability was similarly high ( k = 0.97). Additionally, eight patients diagnosed with scapular dyskinesis (SD) were found to have Scapular Snapping Syndrome (SSS).

Conclusion

The palpation-based SDT demonstrated superior inter-rater reliability compared to video analysis and real-time visual observation, with almost perfect reliability ( k = 0.82). This method is particularly beneficial for patients with high or low BMI, those unable to remove clothing, and may be useful for detecting SSS. The findings suggest that palpation SDT is an effective tool for assessing scapular dyskinesis in various clinical settings.
Signed, Sealed, Counted? An Experimental Study of Mail-in Ballot Signature Verification
Authors: Kennedy Ryan , Tiede Lydia Brashear , Ozer Adam L. , Marinov Nicolay
Published: February 2025

Trust in elections is paramount for a democracy and citizens are more likely to cast ballots and support election results when they perceive election processes as trustworthy. However, with the advent of greater dependence on algorithms in election processes, we ask does a reliance on algorithms or a hybrid system for verifying signatures allay or increase citizens’ confidence in using them in elections? To answer this, we use unique survey experiments to first determine respondents’ comfort level in using such systems in elections and then to assess the circumstances which bound this trust. We find that respondents similarly trust automated and non-automated systems, but do not have a clear conception of the confidence threshold, set by policymakers, necessary for rejecting ballots. Additionally, respondents blame election officials more than algorithms when mistakes are made, although this result is contingent on the type of error and respondents’ partisanship. These results have significant implications for confidence in signature verification and other election processes that rely on artificial intelligence.
Scrotal Malakoplakia in a Post-Lung Transplant Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Seth Neha , Geetha Saroja Devi , Tam Wayne , Zhao Yani
Published: February 2025

Malakoplakia is a rare granulomatous disease characterized histologically by Michaelis–Gutmann bodies and sheets of macrophages with granular eosinophilic cytoplasm. While it most commonly affects the genitourinary tract, it can manifest in various locations, including cutaneous sites. This report details a rare example of scrotal malakoplakia in an 82-year-old man with a history of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, developing 7 months post-lung transplant, during ongoing chronic immunosuppressive therapy. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. This report highlights the importance of considering malakoplakia in the differential diagnosis of scrotal lesions, particularly in immunocompromised patients where the clinical presentation may be atypical.
Conversational Polarization: Eight Key Considerations for Communication Scientists
Authors: van Burgsteden Lotte , van Eck Christel W.
Published: February 2025

Previous research has largely overlooked how polarization is constituted through conversations. We introduce the concept of “conversational polarization,” highlighting how polarization is socially constructed in conversations about contentious issues. We present eight considerations for communication scientists to study polarization. Theoretical considerations include: (a) positioning research within the interactional paradigm, (b) considering interlocutors’ responses to speakers’ conversational contributions, (c) uncovering moralities, and (d) identifying conversational turning points. Methodological considerations involve (e) focusing on everyday conversations, (f) linking micro- to macro-level analyses, and (g) noting pitch, facial expressions, and arousal. Finally, concerning societal considerations, we recommend (h) eliciting participant feedback.
BRAF inhibitors with or without MEK inhibitors in advanced BRAF-positive non-small cell lung cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Saha Animesh , Raja T , Dutt Dwary Amit , Ghosh Indranil , Narayan Mahapatra Prabrajya , Mukhopadhay Tanmoy
Published: February 2025

Objective

About 1% to 5% of cases of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have been found to have a BRAF mutation. There is no phase III data, despite the fact that numerous phase II and retrospective studies have demonstrated the efficacy of single agent BRAF inhibition and combination BRAF/MEK inhibition in patient groups that have received treatment and those who have not. Our goal in this systematic review was to provide an overview of the available evidence in this context.

Data Sources

A thorough search was conducted in the PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases for English-language papers published between January 2000 and December 2023 that had full text accessibility. Independently, one author screened the eligible studies that fit our predetermined requirements. A synthesis of the qualitative data was conducted, and the design and quality of the studies were evaluated.

Data Summary

There were 2952 articles found using the search method. Twelve publications with a total of 753 patients were included after two rounds of screening. 33–75% was the objective response rate (ORR). 64–100% was the disease control rate (DCR). The time span for the answer varied from 6.4 to 16.7 months. The range of the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 1.2 to 17.5 months. The range of the median overall survival (OS) was 1.7–25.5 months. When comparing studies with single agent BRAF inhibitors to those reporting the results of BRAF plus MEK inhibitors, the response rates, duration of response, and survival were better in the former case. When untreated patients receiving BRAF/MEK inhibitor therapy were compared to previously treated patients, the results were also improved. Hypertension, pyrexia, hyponatremia, neutropenia, dyspnoea, anaemia, abnormal liver function, asthenia, and cutaneous epidermoid carcinoma were among the frequently reported grade ≥3 toxicity.

Conclusions

Patients with advanced NSCLC that include a BRAF mutation have demonstrated encouraging clinical outcomes with a manageable safety profile when treated with BRAF inhibitors, either in combination with or without MEK inhibitor therapy. In patients who had not received treatment before, combination treatment produced greater results.
The performance of ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat in frequently asked questions about glaucoma
Authors: Doğan Levent , Yılmaz İbrahim Edhem
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the appropriateness and readability of the responses generated by ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat to frequently asked questions about glaucoma.

Method

Thirty-four questions were generated for this study. Each question was directed three times to a fresh ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat interface. The obtained responses were categorised by two glaucoma specialists in terms of their appropriateness. Accuracy of the responses was evaluated using the Structure of the Observed Learning Outcome (SOLO) taxonomy. Readability of the responses was assessed using Flesch Reading Ease (FRE), Flesch Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Coleman-Liau Index (CLI), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), and Gunning- Fog Index (GFI).

Results

The percentage of appropriate responses was 88.2% (30/34) and 79.2% (27/34) in ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat, respectively. Both the ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat interfaces provided at least one inappropriate response to 1 of the 34 questions. The SOLO test results for ChatGPT-3.5 and Bing Chat were 3.86 ± 0.41 and 3.70 ± 0.52, respectively. No statistically significant difference in performance was observed between both LLMs ( p = 0.101). The mean count of words used when generating responses was 316.5 (± 85.1) and 61.6 (± 25.8) in ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat, respectively ( p < 0.05). According to FRE scores, the generated responses were suitable for only 4.5% and 33% of U.S. adults in ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat, respectively ( p < 0.05).

Conclusions

ChatGPT-4 and Bing Chat consistently provided appropriate responses to the questions. Both LLMs had low readability scores, but ChatGPT-4 provided more difficult responses in terms of readability.
The role of metacognitive beliefs in generalised anxiety disorder in men who have sex with men living with HIV in Nigeria
Authors: Bailey Robin , Oba Ekwora Chinonso , Allen Rosie
Published: February 2025

Men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV tend to experience a range of mental health issues, in particular generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), often caused and maintained by psychosocial variables including HIV stigma, discrimination, self-esteem issues, substance abuse and loneliness. This is particularly problematic in countries like Nigeria where same sex activity is illegal and can result in up to 14 years imprisonment. An important psychological variable that may contribute to the experience of GAD are metacognitive beliefs. Participants ( N = 311) completed measures to examine the relationship between these variables. Results indicated that metacognition was associated with, and significantly predicted, GAD in this population. Moderation analysis showed that the effect of HIV stigma on GAD was explained by the proposed interaction with metacognition. Findings suggest that metacognition may be an important variable in explaining GAD symptoms in MSM living with HIV in Nigeria.
‘I think from my experience, it’s a negative thing for most people’: Exploring the perspectives of young British women opposed to the calories on menus policy in the UK
Authors: Canzini Maya , Langdon-Daly Jasmin
Published: February 2025

The compulsory inclusion of calorie information on menus has been health policy in the UK since 2022. Public opinion on the policy varies, with young women particularly likely to oppose and express concerns. This qualitative study explores the perspectives of young women with a negative opinion of the policy. Eight White British women (18–25 years) volunteered to take part in semi-structured interviews exploring their perceptions and experiences with calories on menus. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis developed three themes: (1) viewing calories fed their own unhealthy relationship with food; (2) calories don’t tell you everything that matters about food; (3) negative emotional reactions are shaped by society’s encouragement of the thin ideal. The women’s negative opinions on the policy appeared heavily grounded in, and indicative of, their own negative emotional responses to viewing calorie information. They linked these responses to sociocultural meanings and ideals related to thinness, food choice and dieting.
Predictive control-based flow battery energy storage system for microgrid peak shaving
Authors: Chang Dongxing
Published: February 2025

The incorporation of energy storage systems, particularly vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs), is critically significant for the operation of microgrids, facilitating effective peak shaving and load balancing. VRFBs exhibit essential attributes such as high flexibility, fast response times, and prolonged operational lifespans, rendering them particularly advantageous for small-scale microgrid applications. Building upon this foundation, the present study proposes a novel microgrid system that is fundamentally based on VRFB technology. This system integrates biomass gasification and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) as primary power generation sources, thereby ensuring a reliable and consistent electricity supply that is specifically tailored to the energy requirements of rural areas. To enhance the charge-discharge efficiency of VRFBs, a new predictive control methodology is introduced, aimed at maximizing the utilization of energy stored within the batteries. This predictive control approach dynamically modifies battery operations in response to real-time battery conditions and projected load demands. The study also assesses peak-shaving strategies in terms of their effectiveness in mitigating demand peaks and enhancing grid stability. In comparison to traditional fixed control methods, the proposed predictive control strategy demonstrates superior intelligence and adaptability, allowing for seamless adjustments to the fluctuating power needs of microgrid systems. By significantly improving the efficiency of VRFBs and lowering operational costs, this innovative approach has the potential to advance the sustainability and resilience of microgrid infrastructures.
Revisiting public service motivation: A context-specific exploration of its linkages to job performance pre- and post-COVID-19
Authors: Park Mingean , Kim Younhee
Published: February 2025

This study examines how public service motivation (PSM) influences job performance, with organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) as a mediating factor and the COVID-19 pandemic as a moderating factor. It intends to revisit the relevance of PSM in the Korean public sector, particularly focusing on trends observed before and after the pandemic. Using 19,700 observations from South Korea’s public employee perception surveys (2017–2021), this study employs a mediation regression model with the moderating impact of the pandemic, while controlling for variables related to administrative routines and workplace environments. The results found that PSM positively influences job performance through OCB; however, the pandemic insignificantly moderates the PSM-job performance link. With a deeper understanding of the recent dynamics of the PSM-OCB-job performance sequence in the Korean public sector, this study implies that strengthening motivational constructs can consistently drive sustained improvements in job performance, even in the face of external disruptions.
My Journey into International CPE
Authors: Johnson David C.
Published: February 2025

The reflection shares the journey from having no experience in international CPE to being critical of how ACPE manages programs outside the USA.
Three-Dimensional Lung Reconstructions for Preoperative Planning of Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Segmentectomies Using Visible Patient Software
Authors: Laven Iris E.W.G. , Verkoulen Geert H.J.M. , Verkoulen Koen C.H.A. , Franssen Aimée J.P.M. , van Roozendaal Lori M. , Gronenschild Michiel H.M. , Hulsewé Karel W.E. , Vissers Yvonne L.J. , de Loos Erik R.
Published: February 2025

In this article, we present the use of 3-dimensional (3D) lung reconstructions performed by Visible Patient software and share our experience with the first 5 patients who were scheduled for a segmentectomy. These reconstructions provided useful insights into more accurate lung nodule locations, resulting in a preoperative change in the surgical plan in 3 of the 5 patients. In addition, surgeons were better prepared for surgery with the preoperative knowledge of anatomical variations identified in 4 patients. These findings highlight the critical role of preoperative 3D lung reconstructions in determining the appropriate surgical indication and refining the surgical plan when thoracoscopic segmentectomy is initially indicated.
Categorizing Social Media-Based Collective Action
Authors: Lev-On Azi
Published: February 2025

The article develops a categorization scheme for collective activities facilitated by social media. I introduce a six-part scheme consisting of two distinct dimensions: the character of the activity (deliberative or participatory) and the platform where the activity unfolds—within social media platforms; outside social media platforms but still online; or in offline settings. While existing models provide a foundation for understanding collective actions on social media, they often overlook the nuanced interactions between online and offline activities, and the transition between different characters of collective activities. The proposed model addresses these gaps by incorporating a more granular analysis of activity types and platforms, enhancing our ability to understand and leverage these dynamics for more effective mobilization and advocacy. This categorization is justified and substantiated through a netnographic study of the social media campaign advocating for justice for Roman Zadorov, in Israel.

Key Points for Practitioners Enhanced Framework for Categorization: The article provides a refined classification scheme for understanding collective actions facilitated by social media. This can help public managers and policy analysts better monitor and evaluate the dynamics of online and offline mobilization. Integration of Online and Offline Activities: The research emphasizes the transition between online participation and offline actions, demonstrating how social media campaigns can lead to offline outcomes. Practitioners can use this insight to bridge their digital engagement strategies with physical community initiatives, fostering a comprehensive approach to public involvement. Deliberative and Participatory Dynamics: The distinction between deliberative and participatory activities offers IT architects and policy analysts a nuanced lens for designing and supporting digital platforms that encourage either deep discussion or broad public engagement, based on specific goals and community needs.
CUSUM Control Chart for Monitoring Mean of the INAR(1)PCJ Process
Authors: Irshad MR. , Aswathy S , Chesneau Christophe , Maya R
Published: February 2025

A novel lifetime distribution is presented, derived from compounding the Poisson and two-parameter Chris-Jerry distributions. Various of its statistical characteristics are determined, encompassing aspects such as the moments, probability generating function, and hazard rate function. Statistical inference regarding the model parameters is explored through maximum likelihood estimation. A simulation study is carried out to evaluate the bias and mean square error of the estimated values. The importance of the proposed distribution is illustrated within the framework of an integer-valued first-order autoregressive process, which we shall call the INAR(1) process. Additionally, a simulation study is conducted employing the conditional maximum likelihood and conditional least squares methods. The practical significance of the proposed model is validated through its application to real datasets. In the realm of statistical quality control, we devise a cumulative sum control chart for monitoring the process mean. To illustrate its applicability, we conduct both simulation and real-data analysis.
The participation of junior-age athletes in senior judo world tour competitions: Effects of timing and quality of the event
Authors: Conceição-Santos Danilo França , Lopes-Silva João Paulo , Kons Rafael Lima , Franchini Emerson
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the influence of early competition exposure on the performance of junior judo athletes in senior-level World Championships and Olympic Games. Specifically, we examine the relationship between participation in different types of senior international competitions—Continental Championships, Grand Prix (GP), and Grand Slam (GS)—during the junior years and the subsequent success at major senior events. Data from 3560 judo athletes were analyzed to assess the impact of the number of competitions participated in and the timing of these events relative to the transition to the senior level. Our results indicate that judo athletes who participated more frequently in GP and GS events during their junior years had higher odds of medal success at senior competitions compared to those who focused on Continental Championships, with odds ranging from 1.58 to 3.05. Additionally, judo athletes who increased their participation in competitions during their third junior year exhibited improved odds of success, although selection bias—where higher-performing judo athletes are more likely to be exposed to elite competitions—must be considered. These findings indicate that a higher participation in higher-level competitions, particularly in the later stages of junior development, is associated with a greater likelihood of medaling in senior-level World Championships and Olympic Games. This association suggests that junior athletes capable of competing successfully against senior opponents demonstrate a readiness and merit that supports their participation at this level. Furthermore, the strategic selection of competition types, particularly GP and GS events, should be prioritized in talent development programs to maximize athletes’ potential at the senior level.
Determinants of academic desertion: A case study in a Peruvian university
Authors: Bardales Einstein Sánchez , Carrasco Rituay Angelica María , Marín Yuri Reina , Caro Omer Cruz , Fernández Milena Torres , Santos River Chávez
Published: February 2025

University dropout has a social impact on students who do not complete their higher education studies since it limits job opportunities and personal development. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the factors influencing academic dropout in a Peruvian public university. A non-experimental, descriptive methodology was used with a sample of 50 dropout students; to whom a questionnaire was applied. The results show that socioeconomic factors have a greater impact on student dropout; furthermore, the factors that influence dropout differ according to the length of academic studies. These factors differ depending on the study area; personality and sociocultural factors have a greater incidence in engineering and social sciences. It is concluded that university dropout is not explained by a single factor but by the interaction of various elements of a socioeconomic, academic, and personal nature.