bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Island Biogeography Theory and the Island Rule in Orchid Bees in Panama
Authors: Vega‐Rovira Yosiat A. , Bennett‐Vaz Richard , Araúz Gabriel , Añino Yostin , Gálvez Dumas
Published: November 2024

Aim

The study of the theory of island biogeographic (TIB) has focused mainly on plants and vertebrates, with support for the predictions that species richness decreases with distance from the mainland and increases with island size. However, less work has been done on invertebrates. Similarly, the study of the island rule has been studied mainly in vertebrates. A group of invertebrates that can facilitate the study of TIB and the island rule are orchid bees (Apidae: Euglossini), because they are easily collected and show powerful flight performances that allows them to travel long distances. We wondered if these bees would follow the predictions of island biogeography, given that their populations may not be isolated across islands. To test if there is an homogenitazion of orchid bee communities across islands, we evaluated orchid bees abundance and species composition across islands. Besides, we tested the island rule by examining body size variations in individuals collected across islands.

Location

Coiba National Park (Panama).

Time Period

May and June 2023.

Taxa

Orchid bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Euglossini).

Methods

By using traps with chemical attractants, we sampled male bees from five islands and the mainland in Coiba National Park in the Pacific side of Panama. We tested the TIB by evaluating whether richness decreased with distance from the mainland or whether increased with island area. To investigate the island rule, and whether there is variation in body size across islands, we used Euglossa imperialis and Euglossa mixta as models, the two most abundant species in the study area.

Results

For the overall orchid bee community, we found that our results fit one of the predictions of IBT, increases in orchid bee abundance with island area; however, species richness did not decrease with isolation and did not increase with island area as predicted by TIB. An interesting result was that as distance from the mainland increased few species became more dominant. Regarding the island rule, we found in the two Euglossa species a marked pattern of reduction in body size as distance from the mainland increased, which seems to outweigh the effect of island size, since the largest island and one of the farthest showed some of the smallest body sizes.

Main Conclusions

Whether euglossine bees travel long distances across islands in marine environments remain unclear. As distance from the mainland increases, few species become dominant, which may be caused by a decrease of resources that favours generalist species. This increase in abundance may explain the decrease in body size with isolation, as perhaps competition for resources increases. Our study provides novel insights to better appraise the dynamics of orchid bees' communities in insular habitats.
Association of Questionnaire‐Assessed Fall Risk With Uncontrolled Blood Pressure and Therapeutic Inertia Among Older Adults
Authors: Hiura Grant T. , Markossian Talar W. , Probst Beatrice D. , Habicht Katherine , Kramer Holly J.
Published: November 2024

Therapeutic inertia (TI), or failure to escalate or initiate BP lowering medications when BP is uncontrolled, increases with advancing age and may in part be due to perceived fall risk. This study examined the association of a fall risk assessment, based on patient response to three questions administered by trained staff, with uncontrolled BP (≥140/90 mmHg) during a clinic visit and with TI during clinic visits with uncontrolled BP among 13 893 patients age ≥ 65 years corresponding to 41 122 primary care visits. Separate generalized linear mixed effects models were used to examine the association of fall risk (low, moderate, and high) with uncontrolled BP and with TI at a clinic visit after adjustment for demographics, comorbidities, and total number of visits. Baseline mean age was 73.0 years (standard deviation [SD] 5.6), 43.3% were men and questionnaire‐assessed fall risk severity was low in 73.6%, moderate in 14.3%, and high in 12.2%. Compared to low fall risk, the adjusted odds of uncontrolled BP during a clinic visit were 0.97 (95% CI: 0.89, 1.06) and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.82, 0.98) with moderate and high fall risk, respectively. In contrast, adjusted odds of TI during a clinic visit with BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg was 1.16 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.34) and 1.30 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.52) with moderate and high fall risk, respectively, compared to low fall risk. These findings suggest that perceived fall risk severity may be one of several factors that influence hypertension management in older adults.
Europe's Super‐Rich: Towards Oligarchic Constitutional Order
Authors: Regilme Salvador Santino
Published: November 2024

This article addresses an important but understudied puzzle in European Union Studies: the super‐rich's influence on domestic and transnational discourses, policies and institutions for wealth defence, security and legitimacy. It examines the super‐rich's impact on democratic governance and human rights claims of marginalized groups, and how states, civil society and non‐oligarchic entities contest oligarchic rule. The article proposes a research agenda to determine if Europe can be seen as an oligarchic constitutional order, characterized by governance practices and authority structures deeply intertwined with the super‐rich's interests in transnational and domestic politics. The framework in this research agenda underscores how institutional arrangements, legitimating principles, regulatory practices and procedural systems increasingly favour the super‐rich, reflecting a dominant mode of transnational governance rooted in extreme socio‐economic stratification. The research agenda aims to elucidate the tension between wealth and democratic governance, particularly how policies and normative discourses often align with the super‐rich's interests despite resistance from marginalized groups.
Callous‐unemotional traits, cognitive functioning, and externalizing problems in a propensity‐matched sample from the ABCD study
Authors: Murtha Kristin , Perlstein Samantha , Paz Yael , Seidlitz Jakob , Raine Adrian , Hawes Samuel , Byrd Amy , Waller Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Background

Many studies show that both callous‐unemotional (CU) traits (e.g., low empathy, lack of guilt) and cognitive difficulties increase risk for externalizing psychopathology across development. However, other work suggests that some aggression (e.g., relational, proactive) may rely on intact cognitive function, which could vary based on the presence of CU traits. Moreover, no prior research has adequately accounted for common risk factors shared by CU traits, cognitive difficulties, and externalizing problems, which confounds conclusions that can be drawn about their purported relationships. The current study addressed these knowledge gaps by leveraging rigorous propensity matching methods to isolate associations between CU traits and different dimensions of cognitive function and externalizing problems.

Methods

Associations between CU traits, cognitive functioning, and externalizing outcomes were tested within dimensional (n = 11,868) and propensity‐matched group‐based (n = 1,224) models using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study®, with rigorous statistical control for shared sociodemographic risk factors. Cross‐sectional outcomes were parent‐reported symptoms of conduct disorder (CD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Longitudinal outcomes were child‐reported overt and relational aggression.

Results

CU traits were uniquely related to more parent‐reported CD, ODD, ADHD symptoms, as well as more child‐reported aggressive behaviors. Effects of cognitive difficulties were domain specific and were not consistent across dimensional and propensity matched models. There was minimal evidence for divergent associations between CU traits and externalizing outcomes as a function of cognition (i.e., no moderation).

Conclusions

Rigorous control for sociodemographic factors within propensity‐matched models establish CU traits as a robust and unique risk factor for externalizing psychopathology, over and above difficulties with cognitive functioning.
Childhood predictors of avoidant personality disorder traits in adolescence: a seven‐wave birth cohort study
Authors: Wichstrøm Lars , Wilberg Theresa , Hartveit Kvarstein Elfrida , Steinsbekk Silje
Published: November 2024

Background

Although it is widely assumed that avoidant personality disorder (AvPD) originates in childhood, there is little prospective research to substantiate this claim. We therefore aimed to determine whether presumed childhood risk factors predict AvPD traits at 16 years.

Methods

A population‐based sample (n = 1,077; 50.9% female) from the 2003 and 2004 birth cohorts in Trondheim, Norway was examined biennially from 4 to 16 years. The number of AvPD traits at the age of 16 was assessed with the structured clinical interview for DSM‐5 personality disorders and regressed on the intercept and growth in child risk and protective factors until the age of 14.

Results

The prevalence of AvPD at the age of 16 was 3.2% (95% CI: 2.2–4.1). Higher levels and an increased number of social anxiety symptoms over time, as well as increased negative affectivity/neuroticism, predicted a higher number of AvPD traits. When the levels and changes in these factors were adjusted for, less and decreasing extraversion forecasted more AvPD traits, as did declining self‐worth, higher levels of parental AvPD traits, and increased onlooking behavior.

Conclusions

Neuroticism, low extraversion, social anxiety symptoms, passive onlooking behavior, and low self‐worth predicted a higher number of AvPD traits in adolescence, as did more AvPD traits in parents. Efforts to enhance self‐worth, reduce social anxiety, and promote peer interaction among onlooking children may reduce the development of AvPD traits in adolescence.
Optimizing the Precipitation of Bioactive Compounds From Extracted Curcuma longa Linn. Using Gas Anti‐Solvent Process
Authors: Charoenchaitrakool Manop , Lengmangmee Chatchai , Youngkum Patcharaporn
Published: November 2024

Turmeric is a medicinal herb that can be used in a wide range of applications, such as food ingredients, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. The active ingredients found in turmeric are curcumin (CUR), desmethoxycurcumin (DMC), and bisdesmethoxycurcumin (BMDC). The aim of this research was to precipitate the active ingredients from a turmeric extract using the gas anti‐solvent process with carbon dioxide as the anti‐solvent. The effects of solvent type (ethanol, methanol, and acetonitrile), precipitation temperature (25°C–45°C), and CO2 flow rate (4–12 mL/min) on the amount of precipitates were investigated using the Box–Behnken design of experiments. The precipitates were analyzed for curcuminoids and CUR content using HPLC and were tested for antioxidant activity. It was found that solvent type and temperature were significant variables at a 5% significance level on the amount of precipitates. Using a mixture of ethanol and methanol (77.5% v/v ethanol) with a polarity index of 4.48 as the solvent, a precipitation temperature of 25.40°C, and a CO2 flow rate of 7.56 mL/min was found to be the optimal conditions for achieving the highest amount of precipitates. At the optimal conditions, the amounts of curcuminoids and CUR precipitates were found to be 27.33 ± 0.23 and 13.30 ± 0.12 mg/5 mL of extracted solution, respectively. In the antioxidant studies, the Trolox equivalents found in the products at the optimal conditions using DPPH and ABTS assays were 38.19 ± 0.17 and 65.96 ± 2.36 mg/5 mL of extracted solution, respectively. The total phenolic content was found to be 30.84 ± 1.80 mg/5 mL of extracted solution.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor of the cervix in an adolescent with neurofibromatosis type 1: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Furuzono Nozomi , Togami Shinichi , Kitazono Ikumi , Nishikawa Takuro , Tanimoto Akihide , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: November 2024

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) of the cervix are rare, particularly in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). This report describes a cervical MPNST in an 18‐year‐old patient with no history of sexual activity, abnormal vaginal discharge, and prolonged menstruation. She had more than six café‐au‐lait spots on her body since birth and was diagnosed with NF1 at 2 years of age. Positron emission tomography‐computed tomography revealed a large pelvic mass and lung and bone metastases. Biopsy confirmed MPNST. Immunohistochemical staining showed diffuse positivity for CD10, approximately 30% positivity for cyclin D1, partial positivity for α‐SMA, desmin, and MyoD1, and negativity for myogenin, S‐100, and SOX‐10. A cancer gene panel identified several genetic abnormalities, but none were actionable mutations. Despite systemic chemotherapy, the tumor progressed rapidly, and the patient died 8 weeks post‐admission. Early diagnosis of MPNST is crucial. In patients with NF1, even mild symptoms can indicate MPNST.
The risk screening effect of digital insurance distribution
Authors: Murphy Finbarr , Xu Wei , Xu Xian
Published: November 2024

Extant research holds that digital sales channels advance competition and service or goods availability but rarely details the attendant information asymmetry. Leveraging a large unique dataset, this study examines a specific case in which consumers have a choice between offline and digital channels for insurance purchases. We find that digital channels screen in consumers with lower unobserved risk. For term life, endowment and disease insurance products, the average risks of the policies purchased through digital channels were significantly lower than those purchased offline after controlling for all observed risk characteristics. This risk screening effect mainly comes from the inclusion of new low‐risk enrollees. As a consequence, digital channels exhibit lower information asymmetry and greater profitability compared to offline channels.
Children's Preference Patterns and Opportunities for Sensory‐Led Reformulation of Chocolate Chip Cookies
Authors: Liechti Carole , Saint‐Eve Anne , Souchon Isabelle , Espinosa Lucia , Bosc Véronique , Delarue Julien
Published: November 2024

In the context of the rising prevalence childhood obesity, this study investigated children's preferences for chocolate chip cookies, a high impact food category. The objective was to explore drivers of preferences and to identify potential pathways for reformulation. A home use test was conducted in four cities in France with 151 school‐aged children on eight commercial chocolate chips cookies. An external preference mapping analysis was performed using descriptive analysis data from a trained sensory panel and analyses of cookies' composition and physicochemical properties. Texture emerged as a critical driver of preference, with a majority of children favoring softer textures. Preferences were not particularly driven by sweetness, challenging the assumption that children always prefer the sweetest products. Cluster analysis revealed distinct preference patterns that were linked to children's BMI and demographic factors. Notably, children with higher BMIs showed preferences for sweeter cookies and higher sugar content.
Experiences of Informal Caregivers Caring for Individuals With Chronic Schizophrenia in Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Synthesis
Authors: Tay Jia Yee , Li Ziqiang , Goh Yong Shian
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In Asia, many caregivers are culturally obliged to assume the role of taking care of individuals experiencing chronic schizophrenia, even as they grapple with stigma and compassion fatigue. Despite the significance of this phenomenon, the collective experiences of Asian caregivers remain poorly understood.

Aim

To synthesise qualitative evidence on the experiences of informal caregivers when caring for individuals with chronic schizophrenia in Asia.

Methods

A search was conducted on seven databases for studies published between 2013 and 2023. The included studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool. Data extraction was based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Qualitative Extraction Form. The data synthesis was based on the framework by Sandelowski and Barroso.

Results

Our review included the experiences of 1345 informal caregivers from 57 included studies. The analysis yielded the overarching theme of ‘Navigating Challenges, Forging Resilience’. Three themes were identified: (i) challenges in caregiving, (ii) lack of support and (iii) coping and resilience.

Discussion

Our findings highlighted the Asian caregivers' stressors, particularly cultural and traditional factors, a facet often overlooked in the literature.

Implications for Practice

Mental healthcare practitioners must provide caregivers with comprehensive information. Anticipatory guidance is essential during the initial stages of the diagnosis. To negate geographical limitations, caregiver‐training sessions can be pre‐recorded and posted to online platforms. Finally, cultural and spiritual beliefs can be integrated into the treatment plans for individuals with schizophrenia in the community.

Relevance Statement

Within the institutional setting, mental healthcare practitioners are encouraged to provide caregivers with comprehensible information or training in person and through written or online platforms, which can transcend geographical limitations. Anticipatory guidance is essential, especially during the initial stages of the diagnosis, when confusion and uncertainties are prevalent. Periodic home visits by mental healthcare practitioners can help ease caregivers' concerns and enhance their caregiving confidence. Finally, cultural and spiritual beliefs should be integrated into the treatment plans for individuals with schizophrenia in the community as it promotes cultural acceptability, encourages referrals to appropriate institutions and reduces the stigma of mental healthcare.
Growth Performance and Microbial Activity Positively Responded to Interactive Effect of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Young Holstein Dairy Calves
Authors: Mahmoudi Vahid , Kazemi‐Bonchenari Mehdi , Yazdi Mehdi Hossein , Mirzaei Mehdi
Published: November 2024

We hypothesized that nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), as two pivotal nutrients that contributed to the growth of growing animals, may have interactive effect on growth performance and microbial development in young calves. For this purpose, feeding two starter protein contents (20% [20CP] vs. 24% [24CP], DM basis) and two phosphorus supplementation levels (0.35% [0.35P] and 0.70% [0.7P], DM basis) was evaluated on growth performance, health indicators, digestibility of nutrients and microbial protein synthesis (MPS), the latter estimated from urinary purine derivatives (PDs). Forty‐eight female Holstein calves (3 days of age) were assigned randomly to the following treatments: 20CP‐0.35P, 20CP‐0.7P, 24CP‐0.35P and 24CP‐0.7P (n = 12, each). Milk feeding schedule was identical among treatments until weaning (d 59), but study lasted until d 73. Feeding 24CP compared to 20CP diet tended to improve starter intake, increased average daily gain (ADG) during pre‐weaning period (p < 0.05), and final body weight (p = 0.01). Higher P supplementation has marginal effect on starter intake but improved ADG (pre‐weaning; p = 0.02) and microbial activity by greater MPS (p = 0.02) compared to 0.35P. The greatest starter intake, the most favourable general appearance score, the highest withers height, the highest hip height, the greatest organic matter and neutral detergent digestibility, and the greatest MPS were found when calves fed diets contained 24CP along with 0.7P in starter. Based on the current study results, N and P have separate effects on the growth performance of young calves; however, their positive interaction can be attributable to growth performance and microbial development, especially during the pre‐weaning period.
A Cryogenian impact structure lurking in the shadows of northern Sweden
Authors: Alwmark C. , Kenny G. G. , Alwmark S. , Minde P. , Plado J. , Hietala S. , Whitehouse M. J.
Published: November 2024

Here we report on findings for four rock samples with melt texture found in a gravel pit within a glaciofluvial deposit near the small town of Kitkiöjärvi in northernmost Sweden. The samples are comprised of granitic clasts embedded in a brown fine‐grained melt matrix. The samples all contain quartz grains and/or clasts exhibiting multiple sets of planar deformation features oriented parallel to crystallographic planes characteristic of shock metamorphism. The samples also contain Former Reidite In Granular Neoblastic (FRIGN) zircon. We therefore conclude that the investigated samples represent impact melt rock. We interpret a U‐Pb concordia age of 658.9 ± 6.9 Ma (Cryogenian) derived using secondary‐ion mass spectrometry analysis of shocked zircon, as the best estimate for the age of the impact event that formed the melt rocks. Zircon grains from two of the samples yield younger lower intercept ages, raising the possibility that the samples came from multiple impact events of different ages. Although we cannot exclude this possibility, we interpret the younger ages from the clast‐rich melt rocks to reflect non‐impact‐related Pb loss events and suggest that all samples likely came from the same structure. Analysis of the glaciofluvial history of the region, along with the relatively high frequency of finds (five in total, as one similar melt rock was found in the pit in 2018), points to a short‐distance glacial transportation of the samples from the southwest. Since there are no known impact structures in Sweden within that area and/or of similar age, we conclude that an old (the oldest known yet) impact structure in Sweden potentially is yet to be discovered somewhere in the vicinity of the gravel pit.
Environmental determinants of West Nile virus vector abundance at the wildlife–livestock interface
Authors: Casades‐Martí Laia , Peralbo‐Moreno Alfonso , Delacour‐Estrella Sarah , Ruiz‐Fons Francisco
Published: November 2024

The diversity and abundance of vectors are essential parameters in the transmission dynamics of West Nile virus (WNV) between its avian reservoirs and clinically susceptible mammalian species. Knowing the determinants of vector abundance could be thus useful in preventing West Nile fever (WNF) cases and associated socio‐economic impact. We designed a survey at the wildlife–livestock interface to test the hypothesis that variations in environmental favourability between anthropized and wild scenarios modulate WNV vector abundance and transmission risk. In a continental Mediterranean region where WNF has recently emerged, we selected nine sampling sites and allocated three areas to every site with a decreasing gradient of wildlife–livestock interaction: A1—a horse farm where interaction is maximal; A2—a zone of intermediate interaction 500–1000 m from the farm; and A3—an entirely wild zone of low interaction 1–5 km from the farm. At a fortnightly frequency, we estimated mosquito abundance at each of the 27 study sites in May–December 2018 and April–July 2019. We estimated bird and mammal abundance, collected meteorological information and characterised mosquito habitat at the site scale. Thereafter, we studied the determinants of Culex spp., Culex pipiens sensu lato (s.l.) Linnaeus, 1758 (Diptera: Culicidae) and Culex theileri  Theobald, 1903 abundance by constructing negative binomial generalised linear mixed models. We identified 20 mosquito species, with a notable predominance of Culex spp. and, particularly, of Cx. pipiens s.l. We found differences in the spatiotemporal distribution of Culex spp. abundance and confirmed our hypothesis by finding important effects of local environmental variations in abundance. The accumulated rainfall in fortnights 4–14 and the mean temperature of the two fortnights before sampling were positively and statistically significantly associated with the abundance of Cx. pipiens s.l. (Z = 13.09, p < 0.001, and Z = 9.91, p < 0. 001, respectively) and Culex spp. (Z = 13.35, p < 0.001, and Z = 6.99, p < 0.001, respectively), while the mean temperature of the two previous fortnights was a positive statistically significant predictor (Z = 14.69, p < 0.001) of the abundance of Cx. theileri. The farm environment was the most conducive predictor to hosting Culex spp. compared with wild settings. Our results indicate that continental Mediterranean environments are favourable for WNV circulation and maintenance, especially the environment of anthropized rural settings such as farms. These results will have an impact on the spatiotemporal risk prediction of WNF emergence in continental Mediterranean environments.
Identifying behavior change techniques (BCTs) in responsive feeding interventions to prevent childhood obesity—A systematic review
Authors: Eidhin Gráinne Máire Áine Ní , Matvienko‐Sikar Karen , Redsell Sarah Anne
Published: November 2024

Background

Complex interventions that include responsive infant feeding components can potentially prevent childhood obesity. To develop a replicable responsive feeding intervention, an understanding of the most effective behavior change techniques (BCTs) and theory is needed.

Objective

To identify the BCTs and theories used in interventions with responsive feeding components for caregivers of children ≤2 years.

Methods

PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and MIDIRS were searched from inception to May 2023. Studies of obesity prevention interventions with a responsive feeding component were included. BCT Taxonomy Version 1 and Michie and Prestwich theory coding method were applied.

Findings

Eighteen interventions were identified; the number of BCTs ranged from 3 to 11 (mean = 5.5). The most used BCTs were “Instruction on how to perform a behaviour” (17/18) and “Adding objects to the environment” (13/18), which were commonly used in the nine trials demonstrating higher responsive feeding behaviours and the four trials reporting reduced likelihood of overweight or obesity, or rapid weight gain. Fifteen trials reported use of theory.

Conclusion

BCT use was low in interventions with responsive feeding components. BCTs are replicable; their use in interventions, alongside theory, will ensure that key determinants of responsive feeding behavior are included in future obesity prevention interventions.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis or Acute Cellular Rejection?
Authors: Entenmann Andreas , Kogler Hubert , Huber Wolf‐Dietrich , Kölz Marita , Knisely A. S. , Skok Kristijan
Published: November 2024

Background

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare malignant disorder of epidermal antigen presenting cells. It is characterized by infiltration of various tissues with dendritic cells (Langerhans cells, LC) that express CD1a or CD207 (langerin), often leading to organ dysfunction. A patient with LCH required liver transplantation (LT) for LCH‐associated biliary‐tract disease. Cholangiopathy developed after LT. The question arose: In this patient, did LC in damaged liver‐allograft biliary epithelium signify acute cellular rejection (ACR) or recurrent LCH?

Methods

We evaluated immunohistochemical identification of LC (CD1a, CD207) in the proposita and in 14 ACR patient samples as distinguishing between ACR and recurrent LCH.

Results

Among 15 patient samples, 3 (20%) marked with neither antibody. Among the remaining 12 samples (80%), 4 (26.7%)—including that from the proposita—had cells marking for both antigens within bile‐duct epithelium as well as in surrounding portal‐tract connective tissue, 2 (13.3%) had cells marking for both antigens in one region or the other, but not in both, and 6 (40%) had cells marking for only one antigen in one region or the other.

Conclusions

Immunostaining for CD1a and CD207/langerin in the setting of ACR without suspicion of LCH identifies LC in damaged bile ducts. This biomarker pairing proved not to be LCH‐specific. Our findings indicate that the presence of these cells alone is insufficient to identify recurrent LCH in the allograft liver.
STEM exam performance: Open‐ versus closed‐book methods in the large language model era
Authors: Mizori Rasi , Sadiq Muhayman , Ahmad Malik Takreem , Siu Anthony , Ahmad Reubeen Rashid , Yang Zijing , Oram Helen , Galloway James
Published: November 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote learning, heightening scrutiny of open‐book examinations (OBEs) versus closed‐book examinations (CBEs) within science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEM) education. This study evaluates the efficacy of OBEs compared to CBEs on student performance and perceptions within STEM subjects, considering the emerging influence of sophisticated large language models (LLMs) such as GPT‐3.

Methods

Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review analysed peer‐reviewed articles published from 2013, focusing on the impact of OBEs and CBEs on university STEM students. Standardised mean differences were assessed using a random effects model, with heterogeneity evaluated by I2 statistics, Cochrane's Q test and Tau statistics.

Results

Analysis of eight studies revealed mixed outcomes. Meta‐analysis showed that OBEs generally resulted in better scores than CBEs, despite significant heterogeneity (I2 = 97%). Observational studies displayed more pronounced effects, with noted concerns over technical difficulties and instances of cheating.

Discussion

Results suggest that OBEs assess competencies more aligned with current educational paradigms than CBEs. However, the emergence of LLMs poses new challenges to OBE validity by simplifying the generation of comprehensive answers, impacting academic integrity and examination fairness.

Conclusions

While OBEs are better suited to contemporary educational needs, the influence of LLMs on their effectiveness necessitates further study. Institutions should prudently consider the competencies assessed by OBEs, particularly in light of evolving technological landscapes. Future research should explore the integrity of OBEs in the presence of LLMs to ensure fair and effective student evaluations.
Intraoperative sentinel lymph node mapping with indocyanine green via video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery for primary pulmonary neoplasia in a dog
Authors: Griffin Maureen A. , Todd‐Donato Amy B. , Peterson Nathan , Buote Nicole J.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To report the use of intraoperative sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping with indocyanine green (ICG) and near‐infrared (NIR) imaging in a dog with a primary pulmonary carcinoma that underwent lung lobectomy via a video‐assisted thoracoscopic approach.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

A 9‐year‐old female spayed Labrador retriever.

Methods

A solitary, 6.5 cm diameter, right caudal pulmonary mass was identified on contrast‐enhanced thoracic and abdominal computed tomography, with no overt metastatic disease or other primary neoplastic diseases. The dog underwent video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery. A right‐sided thoracoscopic approach was initially performed for right caudal pulmonary ligament transection and image‐guided peritumoral (intrapulmonary) ICG injection. Due to the large size of the mass, a wound retractor was then placed in the right 6th intercostal space for right caudal lung lobectomy. Sentinel lymph node mapping was performed via NIR imaging, and the SLN was extirpated for histologic assessment.

Results

The right tracheobronchial lymph node was identified as sentinel via NIR fluorescence following peritumoral ICG injection. Right caudal lung lobectomy and right tracheobronchial lymph node extirpation were performed without complication, and histologic evaluation revealed a grade 1 pulmonary adenocarcinoma with pneumonia and a reactive lymph node.

Conclusion

Peritumoral ICG administration with NIR imaging appears to be an effective method for intraoperative SLN mapping in dogs with primary pulmonary tumors. The technique utilized in this report can be applied to open or minimally invasive procedures. Large‐scale studies with SLN mapping are needed to determine an accurate incidence of nodal metastatic disease and any effect of extirpation of early metastatic disease via SLN mapping techniques on oncologic outcomes in dogs with primary pulmonary carcinoma.
Democracy, Dictatorship and People’s Beliefs: Evidence from the World Value Longitudinal Survey
Authors: Jadhav Vivek
Published: November 2024

The relationship between economic outcomes and political institutions is a topic of extensive debate. Political institutions influence not only economic results but also societal norms and beliefs. This study utilizes two global datasets, the World Values Longitudinal Survey and the Global State of Democracy Index from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, alongside economic data to examine how beliefs and values vary across different political regimes. This study has three main findings. First, political regimes significantly alter individuals' perspectives on the trade-off between equality and freedom. Specifically, under authoritarian regimes, individuals with higher incomes tend to prioritize freedom over equality more than those with lower incomes do. Second, across various regime types, individuals in higher-income categories consistently exhibit less concern for income equality than those in lower-income categories do. Third, within democratic regimes, individuals with lower incomes consistently prioritize income equality over their higher-income counterparts, regardless of regime type. These findings underscore the dynamic interplay between political institutions and societal values, highlighting how political regimes shape individual beliefs about equality, freedom, and economic fairness.
System Tautochronic Path for Pendulum Vibration Absorber Based on Simple Harmonic Oscillator Transformation
Authors: Valadbeigi Nima , Monroe Ryan , Geist Bruce
Published: November 2024

Centrifugal pendulum vibration absorbers (CPVAs) are essentially collections of pendulums attached to a rotor or rotating component or components within a mechanical system for the purpose of mitigating the typical torsional surging that is inherent to internal combustion engines and electric motors. The dynamic stability and performance of CPVAs are highly dependent on the motion path defined for their pendulous masses. Assemblies of absorbers are tuned by adjusting these paths such that the pendulums respond to problematic orders (multiples of average rotation speed) in a way that smooths the rotational accelerations arising from combustion or other nonuniform rotational acceleration events. For most motion paths, pendulum tuning indeed shifts as a function of the pendulum response amplitude. For a given motion path, the tuning shift that occurs as pendulum amplitude varies produces potentially undesirable dynamic instabilities. Large amplitude pendulum motion that mitigates a high percentage of torsional oscillation while avoiding instabilities brought on by tuning shift introduces complexity and hazards into CPVA design processes. Therefore, identifying pendulum paths whose tuning order does not shift as the pendulum amplitude varies, so-called tautochronic paths, may greatly simplify engineering design processes for generating high-performing CPVAs. To illustrate this new approach and results, a tautochronic cut-out shape producing constant period system motion is obtained for a simplified problem involving a mass sliding in the cut-out of a larger mass that is free to translate horizontally without friction in a constant gravitational field, where the translating base mass replaces the rotating rotor in the centrifugal field.
Utilization of Stochastic P-Bifurcation for Simultaneous Energy Harvesting and Vibration Suppression: An Experimental Investigation
Authors: Cosner Joel , Tai Wei-Che
Published: November 2024

This research focuses on the prediction and experimental verification of P-bifurcation as well as the effectiveness in reducing vibrations and harvesting energy with the use of an inertially nonlinear energy harvesting device attached to a single-degree-of-freedom structure subjected to Gaussian broadband base excitation, modeled as white noise. Four experimental scenarios were tested, including three with different resistive loads and one with an open circuit. Frequency domain optimization involved an optimization routine that was designed to minimize the mean squared error in the pendulum velocity’s frequency content below two cycles per second while constraining the root mean square velocity discrepancy between the simulations and actual experiments to be below 3%. This facilitated accurate predictions of power, vibration suppression, and P-bifurcation. Using the fitted model, an analytically derived P-bifurcation boundary in the noise intensity versus electrical damping plane was presented and experimentally verified. Additionally, power spectral densities for electric power and relative suspended mass velocity were determined for the inerter pendulum vibration absorber system and compared with a top-performing linear system. Results indicated that the monomodal system was the least effective in energy harvesting, while the bimodal and rotational systems significantly enhanced mean and resonant peak power by up to a factor of four and two, respectively. Near the resonant frequency, the peak relative velocity power spectral density decreased by around a factor of four, and the mean square relative velocity improved by as much as a factor of two.
Electron temperature and ion density distribution on a vertical section in a weakly magnetized inductively coupled plasma
Authors: He You , Jiang Yi-Lang , Lee Myoung-Jae , Seo Beom-Jun , Kim Ju-Ho , Chung Chin-Wook
Published: November 2024

In this study, the distributions of electron temperature and ion density on a vertical section in a weakly magnetized inductively coupled plasma were measured using radially movable floating probes placed at different axial positions. The chamber used in this experiment included two cylindrical parts: a smaller radius top part with a planar antenna on the top quartz window and a larger radius downstream part. A magnet coil around the chamber top part maintained a divergent magnetic field in the discharge region. As the current in the magnet coil increased, the magnetic field also increased. Due to the variations of the radio frequency electric field in the plasma, the increase in electron temperature can be divided into different stages. At the higher magnetic field, the electric field of the electrostatic wave can increase electron temperature at the chamber center axial. Also, since the electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) heating in the chamber downstream part changed with the magnetic field, the maximum ion density was observed when the magnetic field around the bias electrode was slightly larger than the ECR magnetic condition. The reasons for these variations were verified in the plasma numerical simulations. The ion flux distribution measured on the bias electrode can change from a center-high distribution to an M-shape distribution with the increased magnetic field.
Enhancing Executive Function in Children and Adolescents Through Motor Learning: A Systematic Review
Authors: Richter Madison J. , Ali Hassan , Immink Maarten A.
Published: November 2024

Enhancing executive function in children and adolescents can have significant positive impact on their current and future daily lives. Upregulation of executive function associated with motor skill acquisition suggests that motor learning scenarios provide valuable developmental opportunities to optimize executive function. The present systematic review aimed to identify key motor learning features that contribute to executive function enhancement in children and adolescents. A January 2024 database search identified 62 eligible studies, involving a total of 4,163 children and adolescents, aged 3–17 years, from developmentally typical (35 studies) and atypical or clinical (27 studies) populations. Schools (51%), sports (22%), laboratory (11%), or home (5%) settings with 8- to 12-week programs for primarily fundamental or perceptual-motor skills but also sport, dance, and musical instrument skills were implemented to evaluate executive function outcomes in domains including working memory (55%), inhibitory control (55%), attention (48%), and cognitive flexibility (41%). Enhanced executive function was most frequently associated with gross and discrete or serial motor skill characteristics, closed or stationary regulatory environments, and variable practice conditions. Studies frequently omitted the assessment of motor learning outcomes or lacked sufficient methodological detail needed to classify motor skill and practice design features that might contribute to executive function enhancement.
Government Support, Community Recreation Facilities, and Physical Activity in China: A Cross-Sectional Socioecological Analysis
Authors: Guan Jing , Downward Paul
Published: November 2024

Background: In the context of rising noncommunicable diseases, Chinese authorities emphasize the need for local governments to provide public sports services to support physical activity (PA). Methods: Employing a socioecological theoretical framework, and drawing on a hierarchical data set synthesized from the China Health and Nutrition Survey, China Stock Market & Accounting Research Database, and Wind Financial Terminal from 2015, a multilevel analysis of the association between provincial government expenditure on culture, sports, and media from 12 provinces, the recreation facilities provided by 287 communities, and PA of n = 10,305 individuals is performed. The number of, and time allocated to, PAs undertaken as well as their METs equivalent in relation to World Health Organization guidelines are investigated. Results: Controlling for a large set of individual confounders, the results show that community recreation facilities and provincial government expenditure have a significant positive association with PA participation that exceeds health guidelines. Conclusions: The results confirm the importance of government support for sport and the provision of community sport and PA facilities in China. This has implications for public health policy generally including the Western context. It remains, however, that the cultural context of engagement also needs further consideration.
Markerless Kinematic Data in the Frontal Plane Contributions to Movement Quality in the Single-Leg Squat Test: A Comparison and Decision Tree Approach
Authors: Park Juhyun , Kim Yongwook , Kim Sujin , Park Kyuenam
Published: November 2024

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare kinematic data of the frontal trunk, pelvis, knee, and summated angles (trunk plus knee) among categorized grades using the single-leg squat (SLS) test, to classify the SLS grade, and to investigate the association between the SLS grade and the frontal angles using smartphone-based markerless motion capture. Methods: Ninety-one participants were categorized into 3 grades (good, reduced, and poor) based on the quality of the SLS test. An automated pose estimation algorithm was employed to assess the frontal joint angles during SLS, which were captured by a single smartphone camera. Analysis of variance and a decision tree model using classification and regression tree analysis were utilized to investigate intergroup differences, classify the SLS grades, and identify associations between the SLS grade and frontal angles, respectively. Results: In the poor group, each frontal trunk, knee, and summated angle was significantly larger than in the good group. Classification and regression tree analysis showed that frontal knee and summated angles could classify the SLS grades with a 76.9% accuracy. Additionally, the classification and regression tree analysis established cutoff points for each frontal knee (11.34°) and summated angles (28.4°), which could be used in clinical practice to identify individuals who have a reduced or poor grade in the SLS test. Conclusions: The quality of SLS was found to be associated with interactions among frontal knee and summated angles. With an automated pose estimation algorithm, a single smartphone computer vision method can be utilized to compare and distinguish the quality of SLS movement for remote clinical and sports assessments.
MoaB2, a newly identified transcription factor, binds to σ
A
in
Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Brezovská Barbora , Narasimhan Subhash , Šiková Michaela , Šanderová Hana , Kovaľ Tomáš , Borah Nabajyoti , Shoman Mahmoud , Pospíšilová Debora , Vaňková Hausnerová Viola , Tužinčin Dávid , Černý Martin , Komárek Jan , Janoušková Martina , Kambová Milada , Halada Petr , Křenková Alena , Hubálek Martin , Trundová Mária , Dohnálek Jan , Hnilicová Jarmila , Žídek Lukáš , Krásný Libor
Published: November 2024

In mycobacteria, σ
A
is the primary sigma factor. This essential protein binds to RNA polymerase (RNAP) and mediates transcription initiation of housekeeping genes. Our knowledge about this factor in mycobacteria is limited. Here, we performed an unbiased search for interacting partners of
Mycobacterium smegmatis
σ
A
. The search revealed a number of proteins; prominent among them was MoaB2. The σ
A
-MoaB2 interaction was validated and characterized by several approaches, revealing that it likely does not require RNAP and is specific, as alternative σ factors (
e.g.
, closely related σ
B
) do not interact with MoaB2. The structure of MoaB2 was solved by X-ray crystallography. By immunoprecipitation and nuclear magnetic resonance, the unique, unstructured N-terminal domain of σ
A
was identified to play a role in the σ
A
-MoaB2 interaction. Functional experiments then showed that MoaB2 inhibits σ
A
-dependent (but not σ
B
-dependent) transcription and may increase the stability of σ
A
in the cell. We propose that MoaB2, by sequestering σ
A
, has a potential to modulate gene expression. In summary, this study has uncovered a new binding partner of mycobacterial σ
A
, paving the way for future investigation of this phenomenon.

IMPORTANCE

Mycobacteria cause serious human diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy. The mycobacterial transcription machinery is unique, containing transcription factors such as RbpA, CarD, and the RNA polymerase (RNAP) core-interacting small RNA Ms1. Here, we extend our knowledge of the mycobacterial transcription apparatus by identifying MoaB2 as an interacting partner of σ
A
, the primary sigma factor, and characterize its effects on transcription and σ
A
stability. This information expands our knowledge of interacting partners of subunits of mycobacterial RNAP, providing opportunities for future development of antimycobacterial compounds.