bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Payment Fintech application adoption in low–income groups: How financial literacy moderates influencing factors?
Authors: Singh Ram , Rafat Aina , Srivastava Smriti
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine the factors that influence payment Fintech application adoption intention among low-income groups in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an expanded technology acceptance model (TAM; covering perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social influence, perceived risk and financial literacy), which was tested using 310 low-income respondents in Northern India. The PLS-SEM approach was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The results indicate that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social influence and financial literacy all has a direct positive relationship with the intention to use Fintech. Furthermore, financial literacy was found to be the moderator in moderating the relationship between social influence and intention to use the Fintech app.

Research limitations/implications

This study ameliorates existing research and deepens the authors’ understanding of users’ intentions to use Fintech among low-income groups. The findings of the study help both policymakers and academicians in designing effective strategies for promoting Fintech usage.

Originality/value

This study examines the factors that determine Fintech application adoption, particularly among low-income individuals. The TAM framework was expanded to include perceived risk and financial literacy as two of the factors influencing Fintech adoption. Furthermore, the moderating role of financial literacy on intention to use Fintech app was considered in this study in the context of a developing country such as India.
Exploring sustainable pathways in the green housing market: an investigation of green housing purchase behavior by using PLS-SEM
Authors: Kumar Jitender , Rani Garima , Rani Manju , Rani Vinki
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Green products are gaining global popularity due to the energy crisis, global warming and other ecological issues of the 21st century. The present article aims to examine the green housing purchase behavior of individuals in developing economies. This study also investigates the mediating effect of purchase intention on the relationship between factors influencing the purchase of green housing and purchase behavior in the real estate industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional research approach was utilized to gather data from 388 individuals in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. This article utilizes the “statistical package for social science (SPSS)” followed by “partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM)” to test the formulated hypotheses.

Findings

The notable finding of this research highlights that environment awareness and environment knowledge significantly influence attitudes towards green housing, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control. In contrast, perceived risk has an insignificant impact on attitudes toward green housing, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control. Additionally, there is a substantial relationship among attitudes toward green housing, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, green purchase intention and green purchase behavior.

Practical implications

The results of this research will advance academic understanding and provide valuable insights to individuals, policymakers and real estate developers by aiding them to make ecological and informed decisions. By identifying the factors that shape individual’ intentions to buy sustainable homes, we can contribute to fostering a strong and sustainable future.

Originality/value

Based on the reviewed literature and the researcher’s previous knowledge, this is one of the pioneering research that incorporates the theory of planned behavior (TPB) with environmental knowledge, awareness and perceived risk while also assessing the proposed model’s efficacy within a developing country, specifically India. Moreover, it represents one of the limited studies investigating actual use behavior toward green housing within the context of the Indian market.
The benefits of precision teaching for educational psychologists
Authors: Kubina Richard M. , Van Jared , Halkowski Madeline
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Educational psychologists play critical roles in assessing, supporting and enhancing student outcomes. Adopting Precision Teaching (PT) methods could amplify their capacity to serve struggling students. PT is a measurement system for defining target behaviours, systematic data collection, data displays and data-based programming decisions. The purpose of this paper is to present a rationale for the benefits of Precision Teaching to educational psychologists across four key domains: assessment, intervention, consultation, and research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explains and provides examples of how PT principles would enhance practices in each domain. For assessment, PT enables clearer problem specification, direct behaviour measurement and growth metrics. For intervention, PT supplies tactics grounded in research and efficient progress monitoring. For consultation, PT aligns with data-based problem-solving models. For research, PT promotes tighter experimental control and measurement of key phenomena.

Findings

Integrating PT would sharpen assessment acuity through enhanced goal setting and progress quantification. Intervention expertise would improve via research-based techniques and response-driven decision rules. Consultation efficacy would rise from consistent data conventions and collaborative problem analysis. Finally, single-case experimental methods would raise the rigour of investigations into core learning processes.

Originality/value

The paper uniquely demonstrates how PT can enhance educational psychology practices across assessment, intervention, consultation, and research. By integrating precise behavior measurement, real-time data collection, and systematic decision-making, PT offers innovative solutions to improve student outcomes and professional efficacy. Its evidence-based approach also strengthens collaboration and research rigor in the field.
Kodamaea ohmeri infection can be the causative agent of secondary infections of intertrigo: A case study
Authors: Wang Lei , Huang Jingran , Fang Linglu , Zhou Ying
Published: December 2024

Kodamaea ohmeri infection is a relatively rare condition, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals or those with a history of invasive procedures. The diagnosis of this infection is challenging because of its diverse and complex atypical clinical presentations. In this study, we describe a case of cutaneous infection with Kodamaea ohmeri presenting as erythematous and scaly lesions on both armpits and groin with itching in an 82‐year‐old man, mimicking intertrigo, and review the relevant literature. The diagnosis was confirmed through fungal microscopy, fungal culture, and mass spectrometry. Antifungal therapy proved to be effective in managing the infection. This case suggests that K. ohmeri, similar to Candida, is a potential pathogen in secondary infection associated with intertrigo. The findings highlight that early identification and diagnosis are crucial for managing K. ohmeri infections effectively.
Phenotypic and genotypic analysis of SERPINA12‐related autosomal recessive palmoplantar keratoderma in southwestern China
Authors: Li Zhongtao , Xie Shengyu , Xu Xueqin , Chen Zhiming , Wang Long , Yang Yuan , Wang Sheng
Published: December 2024

Hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma (hPPK) comprises a clinical and heterogeneous group of skin disorders characterized by hyperkeratosis of the palms and soles. Variants of SERPINA12 have been implicated in autosomal recessive diffuse hPPK, which shares similarities with Nagashima‐type PPK due to biallelic variants in SERPINB7. To date, seven SERPINA12 variants have been found in 11 patients with biallelic SERPINA12 variants worldwide. Herein, we described six new cases of hPPK caused by biallelic SERPINA12 variants from southwestern China. Our study showed commonly extensive distribution of skin lesions and various comorbidities in patients with SERPINA12‐related hPPK. Moreover, we revealed the variant c.635‐7A>G was a founder variant in patients with SERPINA12‐related hPPK in southwestern China. Our work is helpful to improve the knowledge of clinical and genetic characteristics of SERPINA12‐related hPPK.
Impact of long‐term mass‐rearing on the genetic structure of tsetse fly Glossina palpalis gambiensis colonies
Authors: Dera Kiswend‐sida M. , Pagabeleguem Soumaïla , Melachio Tanekou Tito Tresor , Toé Ange Irénée , Ouedraogo/Sanou Gisèle Marie Sophie , Belem Adrien Marie Gaston , Ravel Sophie , Mach Robert L. , Vreysen Marc J. B. , Abd‐Alla Adly M.M.
Published: December 2024

Tsetse flies are the sole cyclic vectors of African trypanosomes, which cause human and animal African trypanosomiases in Africa. Tsetse fly control remains a promising option for disease management. The sterile insect technique (SIT) stands as an environmentally friendly tool to control tsetse populations. SIT requires the mass‐rearing of competent sterile males to mate with wild females. However, long‐term colonization might affect the genetic structure of the reared flies. This study investigated the genetic structure of four Glossina palpalis gambiensis colonies of different ages: two originating from Senegal (SEN and ICIRSEN) and two from Burkina Faso (CIR and IBD). Samples from these colonies were genotyped at ten microsatellite loci, followed by downstream population genetic analyses. The results show that the two colonies from Burkina Faso collected from close sites (∼20 km apart) over 45‐year interval retained the same genetic background (FST_CIR∼IBD ≈ 0, P‐value = 0.47). These flies were however, genetically different from those from the Senegal colonies (FST_CIR∼SEN ≈ 0.047; FST_IBD∼SEN ≈ 0.058, P‐value = 10−4). Moreover, no significant difference was detected in the gene diversity of the CIR and IBD colonies, with HS values of 0.650 and 0.665, respectively. The inbreeding coefficient showed that all four colonies where under Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, with FIS values of 0.026, 0.012, −0.064, and 0.001, for CIR, IBD, ICIRSEN, and SEN, respectively. Furthermore, no sign of a recent bottleneck was identified in tsetse samples from any of the four colonies. The results suggest that long‐term mass‐rearing of tsetse flies has no significant impact on their genetic background and diversity.
Lawyer CEOs and Strategic Disclosure of Litigation Loss Contingencies
Authors: Chen Feng , Hou Yu , Richardson Gordon , Su Barbara
Published: December 2024

Using hand‐collected data, we find that lawyer CEOs, defined as CEOs with a legal education background, tend to make first disclosures about pending litigation cases on a timelier basis for litigation cases that end up with material losses than do non‐lawyer CEOs. However, for cases that result in immaterial losses, the presence of lawyer CEOs is not associated with optimistic claims. In contrast, lawyer CEOs are less likely to issue pre‐warnings prior to material settlements than non‐lawyer CEOs. We attribute the latter finding to the high perceived levels of disclosure proprietary costs in terms of ‘tipping one's hand’ to opposing counsels. These findings suggest that lawyer CEOs do not always exhibit conservative and risk‐averse disclosure styles.
The token undermining effect: When and why adding a small reward to a dated outcome makes it less preferred
Authors: Jiang Cheng‐Ming , Chen Li‐Na , Luo Qian , Wang Wen , Zhou Jing , Ma Jia‐Tao
Published: December 2024

The mere token strategy, which adds a small reward (token) to an option to increase attractiveness, is widely used in the consumer field. However, we conducted six studies that seek to confirm the ‘token undermining effect’, where adding a small token to a sooner and smaller reward (SS) paired with a later and larger reward (LL) decreases the preference for the SS. The results showed that the effect persists across various choice sets, participant populations, reward amounts, delays, outcome properties and regardless of whether the scenarios are incentivized. However, an important boundary condition was that the token must share the same nature as the original option. Furthermore, we used mouse cursor tracking methods to examine the underlying process of attention allocation and demonstrated that adding a small token to the SS leads individuals to allocate more attention to the magnitude dimension than to the delay dimension, ultimately decreasing their preference for the SS. Therefore, managers and policymakers should use the mere token strategy with caution as it could backfire.
Positive well‐being and dampened emotional reactivity to daily family conflict and family cohesion
Authors: Rahal Danny , Fosco Gregory M.
Published: December 2024

Conflict and a lack of cohesive daily family relationships can negatively affect adolescent adjustment, although adolescents differ in how they respond (i.e., their emotional reactivity) to these daily experiences. The present study assessed whether adolescents' well‐being (i.e., life satisfaction, purpose) was associated with dampened emotional reactivity to daily variability in family conflict and cohesion. Adolescents (N = 150; MAge = 14.60, SD = 0.83; 61.3% female; 83.4% white) completed a questionnaire regarding well‐being and reported family conflict, cohesion, and negative emotion for 21 days between August 2015 and November 2016. Greater life satisfaction was related to dampened negative emotional reactivity to daily conflict, whereas greater purpose was related to dampened negative emotional reactivity to changes in daily family cohesion. Well‐being may foster resilience in adolescents' day‐to‐day emotional processes.
The Impact of Traumatic Dental Injury on the Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life of Preschool Children: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Xinmeng , Wang Yumin , Peng Jiahan , Huang Ruijie
Published: December 2024

Background/Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of traumatic dental injury (TDI) on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) of preschool children, and further inform public oral health care policies and strategies for this age group TDI patients.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective and cross‐sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China. It included 314 children aged from 2 to 5 years, with 90 children diagnosed with TDIs and 224 without TDIs. Parents or primary caregivers completed questionnaires, and the responses were gathered for statistical analysis to evaluate the impact of TDIs. The OHRQoL was assessed using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS).

Results

The total ECOHIS score and the scores for the 13 individual items were significantly higher in children with TDIs compared with those without TDI (p < 0.001). In the child impact section, eating and masticatory function were the most severely affected (40%), while most of parents experienced strong feelings of self‐blame in the family impact section (61.1%). A positive correlation was observed between the number of injured teeth and the total ECOHIS score (p = 0.001), while the time elapsed since TDI indicates a negative correlation with the total ECOHIS score (p < 0.001). Additionally, children with severe TDIs had higher ECOHIS scores than those with mild TDIs, indicating a greater impact on OHRQoL (p = 0.006). In contrast, tooth discoloration, the caregiver's relationship to the child, caregiver education level and the position of the affected teeth did not significantly influence the total ECOHIS score (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

TDIs have a significant impact on OHRQoL in preschool children, highlighting the need for greater societal attention. Strengthening preventive and proper treatment measures for TDIs, along with enhancing health education programs, is strongly recommended.
Partial arytenoidectomy in 21 standing draught horses with recurrent laryngeal neuropathy
Authors: Gray S. M. , Gutierrez‐Nibeyro S. D.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To report the use of standing partial arytenoidectomy (PA) in draught horses affected by left‐sided recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN).

Study design

Retrospective descriptive study.

Animals

Twenty‐one draught horses diagnosed with left‐sided recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN).

Methods

Medical records of 21 draught horses subjected to standing PA to treat left‐sided RLN were reviewed. Data recorded included history, signalment, presenting complaint, athletic or intended use, pre‐ and postoperative resting upper respiratory tract endoscopic findings, perioperative medication, surgical details, postoperative exercise recommendations and follow‐up.

Results

Twenty‐one horses (100%) had a history of abnormal respiratory noise and 15 horses (71%) had exercise intolerance. Of the 19 horses with follow‐up, surgery resolved or significantly reduced the abnormal respiratory noise in 17 horses (90%) and resolved exercise intolerance in all 13 horses with a history of exercise intolerance and follow‐up. None of the horses had signs or evidence of coughing at the time of follow‐up.

Conclusion

Standing left‐sided PA can resolve the clinical signs associated with left‐sided RLN in draught horses.
On the Retention of Cod Early Life Stages Spawned at Jan Mayen
Authors: Frøysa Håvard G. , Bogstad Bjarte , Williams Tom , Stiansen Jan Erik
Published: December 2024

The Jan Mayen shelf has recently been identified as a spawning area for cod (Gadus morhua). Genetic analyses and otolith types of adult cod caught in the Jan Mayen area show that they are of mixed origin, from both Iceland and the Barents Sea. However, they are genetically different from both stocks indicating the possibility of a cod stock around Jan Mayen. Motivated by this, we investigate the potential for eggs and larvae of cod to stay behind at Jan Mayen after spawning, which would be a requirement for having a self‐sustained stock. This is done using a numerical model for larval drift and growth, similarly to what has been done for other cod stocks. Using the modelled drift, we compare the proportion of larvae retained in different years to the strength of year classes as indicated by fisheries data. We find that even if most individuals are transported away from Jan Mayen, there are still some years where a significant proportion (more than 20%) of the larvae remains at the time of settlement in October–November. However, the year‐to‐year variability is large, with almost no individuals remaining in certain years. Our results suggest that aggregated over years, the amount of larvae that reach the age of bottom settlement on the Jan Mayen shelf area could be sufficient to give a potential for a self‐sustained cod population. In addition, we find that the main drift direction away from Jan Mayen is southwest towards East Greenland.
Quantitative color analysis of the diets of patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease: Comparative study with nutritionally balanced diets
Authors: Yamazaki Asumi , Takachi Yuka , Takahashi Hirokazu , Hara Nagisa , Ogawa Yuji , Hyogo Hideyuki , Koseki Masahiro , Hayakawa Mariko , Nakajima Atsushi , Iwaki Michihiro , Fujii Makoto , Ishida Takayuki , Kamada Yoshihiro ,   Japan Study Group of NAFLD (JSG‐NAFLD)
Published: December 2024

Aim

The prevalence of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), including its severe subtype, metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH), is increasing worldwide. This condition is a major health concern as MASH can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. With no specific medications available, lifestyle modifications, particularly dietary and exercise interventions, are crucial for managing MASLD. This study aimed to analyze the color characteristics of meals consumed by MASLD patients, seeking insights for dietary modifications.

Methods

We quantitatively analyzed the chromaticity, hue, and chroma of photographs of patients' meals and compared these statistical measures with those of nutritionally balanced meals recommended by dietitians. We also examined associations between the color characteristics of patients' meals, their clinical data, and dietary nutrients.

Results

Patients' meals exhibited significantly lower variances in chromaticity (a∗ and b∗) and lower average chroma compared to nutritionally balanced meals. Specifically, the overall mean of variance of a∗ for patients' meals was 151.1, compared to 340.5 for nutritionally balanced meals. The overall mean of average chroma for patients' meals was 24.54, whereas that for nutritionally balanced meals was 34.47. Additionally, patients' dietary patterns were found to be potentially linked not only to nutritional deficiencies but also to the prognosis and progression of hepatic fibrosis and MASLD severity.

Conclusions

This study reveals reduced color vibrancy and diversity in the diets of MASLD patients, suggesting potential dietary modifications to improve nutritional habits and clinical management for MASLD patients.
Empathy as a Psychometric Property in Dental Undergraduate Students
Authors: Anishchuk Sviatlana , Seery Aidan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Empathy has been an essential competency in the clinical training of dental students and plays an important role in building relationship with patients. It has been found that gender and age may influence these empathetic responses; however, the findings vary across the literature. This study aims to investigate if age, gender and type of undergraduate dental training have a dependent relationship with the level of empathy.

Methods

The participants' empathy levels were measured using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy for Health Professional Students and reported as a total score. The data were analysed using an independent t‐test to compare the means of age and gender with level of empathy. An ANOVA test was used to evaluate the mean difference between dental science, dental hygiene and dental nursing students and their level of empathy.

Results

Most of the 57 participants were females (82%). Only 10 males participated and were all members of the dental science. The male students had a higher mean empathy level (110.6) than their female peers (109) (p = 0.733); participants aged 19–23 years had a lower mean (108) empathy level than their peers aged 24 and older (114) (p = 0.113); discipline empathy levels in dental science and dental hygiene were similar (111), with a lower mean level in dental nursing (106) (p = 0.233).

Conclusion

The study did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference between age, gender or discipline of undergraduate training with level of empathy. However, the results showed that age and gender have some influential relationship and should be investigated further to guide development of the educational curriculum in dental undergraduate training.
Full‐length transcriptome‐referenced analysis reveals developmental and olfactory regulatory genes in Dermestes frischii
Authors: Hu Gengwang , Li Liangliang , Li Yifei , Shao Shipeng , Zhang Ruonan , Gao Yundi , Guo Yi , Wang Yinghui , Gu Zhiya , Wang Yu
Published: December 2024

Dermestes frischii Kugelann, 1792 is a storage pest worldwide, and is important for estimating the postmortem interval in forensic entomology. However, because of the lack of transcriptome and genome resources, population genetics and biological control studies on D. frischii have been hindered. Here, single‐molecule real‐time sequencing and next‐generation sequencing were combined to generate the full‐length transcriptome of the five developmental stages of D. frischii, namely egg, young larva, mature larva, pupa and adult. A total of 41,665 full‐length non‐chimeric sequences and 59,385 non‐redundant transcripts were generated, of which 42,756 were annotated in public databases. Using the weighted gene co‐expression network analysis, gene co‐expression modules related to the five developmental stages were constructed and screened, and the genes in these modules were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. The expression patterns of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to olfaction and insect hormone biosynthesis were also explored. Transcription of most odorant binding proteins was up‐regulated in the adult stage, suggesting they are important for foraging in adults. Many genes encoding for the ecdysone‐inducible protein were up‐regulated in the pupal stage, may be mainly responsible for the tissue remodelling of metamorphosis. The results of the quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) were consistent with the RNA‐seq results. This is the first full‐length transcriptome sequencing of dermestids, and the data obtained here are vital for understanding the stage‐specific development and olfactory system of D. frischii, providing valuable resources for storage pest and forensic research.
Pharmacological characteristics of once‐weekly insulin icodec in Japanese individuals with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Eto Takashi , Haranaka Miwa , Kristensen Niels Rode , Navarria Andrea , Nishida Tomoyuki , Ribel‐Madsen Rasmus , Søgaard Stinne Byrholdt , Halberg Inge Birk
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Insulin icodec is a basal insulin designed for once‐weekly administration. This study assessed the pharmacological properties of icodec in Japanese individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Materials and Methods

In a randomized, open‐label, crossover study, 24 Japanese individuals with T1D (20–64 years; glycated hemoglobin ≤9.0%) received once‐weekly icodec for 8 weeks and once‐daily insulin glargine U100 for 14 days at individual constant equimolar doses per week together with bolus insulin aspart. Individual doses were determined during run‐in with glargine U100 titrated to prebreakfast self‐measured plasma glucose (SMPG) of 4.4–7.2 mmol/L. Blood samples for icodec pharmacokinetics were taken from the first icodec dose until 35 days after last dose. The steady‐state glucose‐lowering effect was measured in glucose clamps (target 6.7 mmol/L) during 24–48 h and 150–168 h after last icodec dose and 0–24 h after last glargine U100 dose. One‐week glucose‐lowering effect of icodec was simulated using a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model. Hypoglycemia was identified from SMPG during the treatment periods.

Results

Icodec pharmacokinetic steady state was achieved on average after 2–3 weeks of treatment. Model‐derived daily glucose‐lowering effect during the weekly dosing interval averaged 14.6%, 18.0%, 16.6%, 14.9%, 13.3%, 11.9%, and 10.7%, respectively. Rates of level 2 hypoglycemia (PG <3.0 mmol/L) were 37.3 vs 30.6 episodes per patient‐year of exposure for icodec vs glargine U100.

Discussion

Icodec pharmacological properties in Japanese individuals with T1D in this study support the potential of icodec to provide basal insulin coverage with once‐weekly dosing in Japanese individuals with diabetes.
The Effect of Computer‐Aided Device on Adenoma Detection Rate in Different Implement Scenarios: A Real‐World Study
Authors: Zhang Chenxia , Tao Xiao , Pan Jie , Huang Li , Dong Zehua , Lin Jiejun , Su Huang , Zhu Yijie , Du Hongliu , Xiao Bing , Chen Mingkai , Wu Lianlian , Yu Honggang
Published: December 2024

Background

Several recent studies have found that the efficacy of computer‐aided polyp detection (CADe) on the adenoma detection rate (ADR) diminished in real‐world settings. The role of unmeasured factors in AI–human interaction, such as monitor approaches, remains unknown. This study aimed to validate the effectiveness of CADe in the real world and assess the impact of monitor approaches.

Methods

A retrospective propensity score–matched cohort study was conducted using routine data from a tertiary endoscopy center in China before and after the implementation of CADe. Four propensity score–matched cohorts were established: Cohort 1: pre‐CADe matched with dual‐monitor CADe‐assisted group; Cohort 2: dual‐monitor CADe‐assisted with single‐monitor CADe‐assisted group; Cohort 3: pre‐CADe with single‐monitor CADe‐assisted group; and Cohort 4: pre‐CADe with CADe period. ADR was set as the primary outcome.

Results

There were 5390, 6083, and 6131 eligible patients in the pre‐CADe group, dual‐monitor group, and single‐monitor group, respectively. In the matched analysis, results indicated that regardless of the monitor setup, CADe‐assisted groups showed a trend of increased ADR compared with the pre‐CADe period (CADe period: OR 1.141, 95% CI 1.047–1.243; p = 0.003; dual‐monitor: OR 1.178, 95% CI 1.069–1.299, p = 0.001; single‐monitor: OR 1.094, 95% CI 0.998–1.200, p = 0.056). Moreover, no significant difference between different monitor approaches was observed, although dual‐monitor setup showed an increasing tendency on ADR compared with single‐monitor setup (OR 1.069, 95% CI 0.985–1.161, p = 0.109).

Conclusion

CADe shows great potential to improve ADR during colonoscopy in the real world. Meanwhile, changes in monitor setup do not significantly impact the assistance capability of CADe. Further research dedicated to evaluating the unmeasured elements in the AI–clinician hybrid for better implementation of CADe would be beneficial.
The Baby Club: Paternity and Performance in a High‐Pressure Setting
Authors: Butler David , Butler Robert
Published: December 2024

We offer new insights into fatherhood by asking if the onset of paternity changes workplace productivity. We do this in the well‐monitored and high‐pressure setting of professional football using a novel dataset that matches 115 birth disclosures to the performance of 96 players. Our empirical approach involves specifying a performance equation for a suite of match‐level performance statistics and estimating OLS and Poisson fixed‐effect panel regressions. We find a negative correlation between fatherhood and collaborative performance as measured by expected assists—a player's ability to create goalscoring opportunities. We also report negative effects for the perinatal period for expected assists and passing measures. There is no evidence of performance changes resulting from expectancy news. As negative performance effects are observed in a context of ‘superstar wages’, this raises concerns for high‐pressure labour markets where workers are remunerated less but have low uptake of leave entitlements or where paternity leave is culturally taboo.
Context‐ and taxon‐dependent small‐scale taxonomic and phylogenetic nestedness of bryophytes on insular rocks in a karst natural reserve and its implication for their conservation
Authors: Huang Ruoling , He Lin , Li Dandan , Deng Tan , Xia Yuzhu , Guo Shuiliang , Yu Jing
Published: December 2024

The distribution patterns of five categories and 183 species of bryophytes, and six physical attributes, on 92 insular rocks in three karst districts (Pangxiegou, the weather station in Shishangsenglin and Yaolancun) with different landscape properties in the Maolan National Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China, were recorded and analysed in terms of nestedness. By using matrix temperature, NODF metrics under four null models, treeNODF and permrows null model, we evaluated the taxonomic and phylogenetic nestedness at a small scale and explored possible underlying mechanisms. We found 1) a significant taxonomic and phylogenetic nestedness among the bryophytes and their main categories on these insular rocks, not only in the whole study region but also in each of the three districts; 2) higher taxonomic nestedness for mosses than for liverworts, and higher for acrocarpous mosses than for pleurocarpous mosses, indicating that nestedness of bryophytes on insular rocks in karst regions is taxon‐dependent; 3) rock area, habitat amount and height are the three main determinants of taxonomic and phylogenetic nestedness of bryophytes, while phylogenetic nestedness overall followed the same processes as taxonomic nestedness; 4) selective extinction and habitats nestedness were the two mechanisms accounting for the small‐scale nested pattern of bryophytes on insular rocks; 5) the determinants and mechanisms of taxonomic and phylogenetic nestedness varied among bryophytes in different landscapes and ecological habitats, thus being context‐dependent. Our results indicate that 1) large rocks with rich microhabitats should be given priority for the conservation of saxicolous bryophytes; 2) the conservation of different categories of saxicolous bryophytes that have a limited congruence will require a multiple criteria approach that incorporates phylogenetic diversity differences into reserve planning; 3) the conservation strategies for bryophyte diversities in different ecosystems should be adapted to local conditions and differences among bryophyte groups.
Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus (Gesneriaceae), a new species of lipstick vine from the Banao Protected Landscape of Luzon Island in the Philippines
Authors: Malabrigo Pastor L. , Tobias Adriane B. , Thorogood Chris J. , Mansibang Jayson A.
Published: December 2024

Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the tropical lower montane rain forests of the Banao Protected Landscape in Luzon Island in the Philippines is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is most similar to A. batesii in having glabrous vegetative parts, polysepalous calyx, and distinctly mottled internal corolla throat and lobes. However, it differs from this species in its smaller lamina, longer peduncle, smaller calyx lobes, whitish pink external corolla tube, and presence of five tufts of trichomes near the basal portion of the internal surface of the corolla tube. Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus differs from A. philippinensis by its externally whitish pink, internally white corolla tube with mottled maroon markings throughout the limb and lobes, smaller calyx lobes, and internal surface of corolla tube with five tufts of trichomes basally. Aeschynanthus pentatrichomatus sp. nov. is the 33rd species of lipstick vines to be described in the Philippines. The new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) following the IUCN criteria.
Viola evoluta sp. nov. (Violaceae) from central southern China
Authors: Zhong Xin , Huang Cun-Zhong , Li Xiao‐Chen
Published: December 2024

Viola evoluta, a new species of Violaceae from central southern China, is described and illustrated based on morphological evidence and molecular phylogenetic analysis using nuclear ITS and 3 combined chloroplast genes (rpl16, rbcL, and matK). This new species is phylogenetically resolved on a solitary branch within V. sect. Viola subsect. Viola, and is morphologically most similar to V. hondoensis W. Becker and H. Boissieu sharing characteristics such as creeping stolons, globose capsules, and large seeds with conspicuous elaiosome. However, it can be distinguished from V. hondoensis by having nearly glabrous habit, cordate leaf blade with crenate‐serrated margin and cuspidate apex, and lanceolate acute sepals. Viola anhuiensis M. E. Cheng, D. Q. Wang and K. Zhang is proposed as a synonym of V. hondoensis W. Becker and H. Boissieu based on specimen examination. A key to species of V. subsect. Viola in China is also presented.
Ferula diversifolia sp. nov. (Apiaceae) from Xinjiang, China
Authors: Yang Lei , Liu Danhui , Wang Chuchu , Liu Binshuai , Li Wenjun
Published: December 2024

Ferula diversifolia W.Jun Li & Lei Yang, is described and illustrated from Xinjiang Province, China. The new species is morphologically similar to F. foetidissima Regel & Schmalh. in terms of its garlic‐like odor, robust stem, and characetristic branching pattern with a paniculate inflorescence. However, it is distinctly different from F. foetidissima in its ternate‐2‐pinnate compound leaves with much broader and shorter leaflets that are incised‐elliptical to rhombic in shape, and significantly smaller fruits. The diagnosis of the new species is supported by a comprehensive investigation including a molecular phylogeny, detailed description, conservation status, photographs, and comparison with morphologically similar species.
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca in intact Aksaray Malakli breed dogs: Evaluation of 50 cases
Authors: Avci Nihan , Gumus Fehmiye , Boztok Ozgermen Basak , Ozen Dogukan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is characterized by decreased aqueous tear film components, leading to ocular surface damage. Diagnosis involves clinical examination, Schirmer Tear Test (STT1), and Tear Film Break‐Up Time (TFBUT) measurement. This retrospective study aimed to assess dry eye syndrome in intact, purebred, Aksaray Malakli breed dogs, and investigate potential associations with hereditary ocular diseases due to inbreeding for phenotype preservation.

Animals

Fifty healthy, purebred, intact Aksaray Malakli dogs of varying ages and sexes, all exhibiting conjunctival hyperemia and mucoid ocular discharge. Dogs with chronic diseases, systemic medication, or ongoing ophthalmic treatment were excluded.

Procedures

Demographic data, ophthalmic examination results, and ocular anomalies were recorded. STT1 and TFBUT assessments were performed to measure tear production and film stability. STT1 values were scored from 1 (normal) to 4 (severe dry eye), and TFBUT ≥20 s was considered normal. Statistical analyses were used to evaluate correlations and differences.

Results

The correlation between age and STT1 values (r = −.182, p = .206) was not statistically significant. Mean STT1 was higher in females than males, though not significantly (p = .849). Dogs without third eyelid gland prolapse had significantly higher STT1 and TFBUT measurements compared to those with prolapse (p = .027). No significant sex difference was found in the frequency of third eyelid prolapse (p = .289). A significant positive correlation was observed between STT1 and TFBUT (r = .924; p < .001).

Conclusions

Aksaray Malakli dogs, particularly those with third eyelid gland prolapse, are predisposed to mild to moderate KCS. These findings suggest the need for further clinical and genetic investigations to better understand and manage dry eye syndrome in this breed.
The skeletal muscle proteomic determinants of neuromuscular function in young and older women following 8 weeks of resistance training
Authors: O'Leary Mary , Greed Elsa , Pritchard Jack , Struszczak Lauren , Bozbaş Esra , Bowtell Joanna
Published: December 2024

Resistance training (RT) is the gold standard intervention for ameliorating sarcopenia. Outstanding mechanistic questions remain regarding the malleability of the molecular determinants of skeletal muscle function in older age. Discovery of proteomics can expand such knowledge. We aimed to compare the effect of RT on the skeletal muscle proteome and neuromuscular function (NMF) in older and younger women. Seven young (22 ± 6 years) and eight older (63 ± 5 years) women completed 8 weeks’ leg RT. Pre‐ and post‐training, measures of leg and handgrip strength, NMF and vastus lateralis (VL) biopsies were obtained. Tandem‐mass‐tagged skeletal muscle proteomic analyses were performed. Data were analysed using differential expression and weighted gene co‐expression network approaches. Proteins related to skeletal muscle contraction were lower in older skeletal muscle; this was not normalised by RT. Following RT, older women had higher expression of VL mitochondrial biogenesis proteins compared to the young, a reversal of pre‐training observations. Seventy proteins were differentially expressed between age groups. VL expression of these proteins in older women was consistently and significantly associated with poorer leg strength/NMF. Conversely, VL expression of these proteins in older women was often associated with greater handgrip strength. This study has identified important differences in the molecular responses of young and old skeletal muscle to RT. We have demonstrated their close relationship with skeletal muscle function. Proteins that are refractory to RT may represent targets to ameliorate sarcopenia. We have described a ‘proteomic‐function’ relationship that appears to be muscle‐specific. Future research should further unpick these complex relationships.
Primeros resultados sobre la percepción social del patrimonio cultural de la península Valdés (Patagonia), según sus visitantes
Authors: Banegas Anahí , Curti Leticia
Published: December 2024

Este trabajo presenta los resultados de una encuesta realizada durante el año 2020 respecto de la opinión de visitantes sobre el destino de la península Valdés, en la Patagonia argentina. Su objetivo fue indagar cómo el patrimonio cultural arqueológico e histórico del lugar es percibido y conceptualizado, y en qué medida esas visiones sociales entran en conflicto o no con otros usos sociales. Se partió de la premisa de que la instauración de una visión conservacionista del ambiente natural en la península Valdés, vinculada al surgimiento de la actividad turística en el área, fue un obstáculo para el desarrollo y la valoración de otros atractivos turísticos referentes al patrimonio cultural material e inmaterial. Se concluye que el recorte del territorio para la planificación turística contribuye a la invisibilización del pasado, al mismo tiempo que desvaloriza el contenido patrimonial cultural, proporcionando al visitante una mirada sesgada y parcial.
Criterios jurisprudenciales para la protección a lideres sociales y defensores de derechos humanos en Colombia
Authors: Yáñez Meza Diego Armando , Ramírez López Daniela , Rangel Angulo Daniela Valentina
Published: December 2024

La presente investigación analiza la configuración de la prestación de medidas de protección por parte de la UNP -en adelante UNP- hacia lideres sociales o defensores de DDHH conforme con la jurisprudencia constitucional con ocasión del amparo de los derechos fundamentales a la vida, seguridad e integridad personal ante casos de extinción, modificación o negación de medidas de protección. El esquema desarrollado fue el siguiente i) contextualización del fenómeno de violencia en contra de los lideres sociales en virtud del ejercicio de defensa de los DDHH en Colombia, ii) descripción de la configuración de la prestación del servicio de protección estatal a favor de los lideres sociales y defensores de DDHH en Colombia y iii) identificación de los principales criterios jurisprudenciales de la Corte Constitucional ante la modificación o negación de medidas de protección adoptadas por la UNP.
En concreto, se identificaron los parámetros fijados por la Corte Constitucional para garantizar los derechos fundamentales a la vida, seguridad e integridad personal de los líderes sociales y defensores de DDHH en relación del estudio de la medida de protección, realizando reflexiones acerca de la forma en la que el Estado está ejerciendo la prestación del servicio y las falencias en las que incurre y la forma en las que estas deben incidir en la agudización del fenómeno de violencia en contra de los líderes sociales en el país.
In real life: a curriculum for developing students’ self-efficacy and outcome expectations through purpose-driven career exploration and planning within a core STEM course
Authors: Foster Krysta , Lambert Lauren , Solomon Rhian , Perkins Haiden , Masani Shahnaz
Published: December 2024

Career planning and exploration are often seen as “out of class” work—important but separate from disciplinary learning. This separation forces students to find time outside their already demanding schedules and to navigate unfamiliar higher education spaces, creating structural barriers and impeding access to these resources. In an effort to create more equitable access to career exploration and education, we developed the “in real life” (IRL) curriculum to provide students with opportunities to reflect on how their academic experiences align with their broader career goals within the context of their introductory biology course. Grounded in Marcia’s Theory of Identity Development and the Social Cognitive Career Theory, the curriculum includes modules on identifying and articulating professional purpose, developing primary and parallel career plans, constructing resumes, developing interview strategies, and building professional networks. Implemented over two semesters at a large R1 university, the IRL curriculum helped students shift from a destination-driven approach to a purpose-driven approach in relation to their careers, increased their career-related self-efficacy, and gave them a better understanding of career outcome expectations. IRL helps students contextualize how the knowledge and skills from class align with their career paths, emphasizing the importance of bringing career development into a disciplinary learning space.
Satellite Gravimetry in Studies of Permafrost Thawing and Vegetation Productivity in the Cryolithozone
Authors: Kharuk V. I. , Golyukov A. S. , Dvinskaya M. L. , Im S. T. , Petrov I. A. , Shvetsov E. G.
Published: December 2024

Changes in the hydrothermal regime of soils caused by the melting of the permafrost layer are the most important ecological factor in the dynamics of vegetation in the cryolithozone. The impact of soil thawing on the growth index (GI) of larch (Larix spp.) and on the gross and net primary productivity (GPP and NPP) of vegetation in the Arctic region of Central Siberia (sparse forests, tundra, and forest tundra) is investigated. The following hypotheses are tested: (1) gravimetric data allow us to assess the dynamics of water mass in soils; (2) thawing of frozen soils stimulates the growth of woody plants and the productivity of vegetation. This work uses methods of dendrochronology, field data, satellite gravimetry (GRACE survey), and remote sensing of GPP (Terra/MODIS survey). An analysis of gravimetric data has revealed a significant long-term trend of decreasing water mass in soils of the cryolithozone (R2 = 0.68). The amount of water released during melting is estimated at 6.4 ± 2.3 kg/m–2 per year. A close relationship was established between the GI of larch and GPP with moisture anomalies in soils (r = –0.7 and r = –0.9, respectively). The increasing temperature of the root zone and the deficit of water vapor moisture also have a positive effect on the GI of larch and the GPP value of vegetation as a whole (r = 0.6 and r = 0.6–0.9, respectively). It is established that pyrogenic carbon losses are significantly (two orders of magnitude) lower than the NPP value. Under conditions of waterlogged soils, which are typical for the Arctic, climate warming is accompanied by an improvement in the hydrothermal growth regime of the plant cover and contributes to an increase in the productivity of vegetation and the preservation of the cryolithozone status of a carbon sink area.
Improving the Reliability of Interconnection Networks Using Replicated 4-Disjoint GIN
Authors: Esmaeili Mahsa , Ravanmehr Reza
Published: December 2024

Today, high-performance computing is recognized as a necessity in various industries. The stable and secure connection between system components, such as CPUs and memories, requires efficient, reliable, and fault-tolerant networks. Multistage Interconnection Networks (MIN) are fundamental approaches to create such an interconnection facility among researchers and engineers. Meanwhile, the Gamma Interconnection Network (GIN) provides one of the highest levels of fault tolerance networks among MINs by establishing multiple paths. Considering the importance of disjoint paths, 4-Disjoint GIN (4DGIN) has been developed, which is an important type of GIN and provides four disjoint paths for all source–destination pairs. On the other hand, the replication approach improves network fault tolerance, which directly affects network reliability. In this paper, a replicated 4DGIN is proposed, enhancing the reliability and improving the fault-tolerance factor by creating disjoint and redundant paths. The reliability of the proposed network is evaluated using the Reliability Block Diagram (RBD) approach. The reliability evaluation results show that the proposed network outperforms several well-known MINs, such as different variations of SEN and Benes networks in terms of the terminal, broadcast, and network reliability factors. Moreover, it improves the cost per unit factor in comparison with the baselines.