bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring women’s and men’s belonging in STEM
Authors: Corson Cecelia , González-Morales M. Gloria
Published: December 2024

Purpose

As of 2023, the total number of Nobel Prizes granted in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields was roughly 622 and of those, only 26 have been awarded to women. STEM fields have historically excluded women at all levels with increasing impact at the higher levels of the career ladder (NSF, 2010). The study serves to shed light on women’s and men’s experiences of belonging in STEM fields – uncovering similarities and differences between the two groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is a qualitative phenomenology, investigating the phenomenon of belonging in STEM among 39 workers in STEM fields.

Findings

Through this qualitative study, we uncovered the similarities around the three primary ways that both men and women conceptualized belonging in these spaces – through feeling heard and contributing, through representation and through feeling safe to take risks. We also identified differences in the ways the men and women conceptualized belonging, such as women’s stronger leadership orientation, greater pull toward connection and more negative mindsets around their inclusion in STEM spaces, and men’s strong orientation toward merit and performance, lesser leadership orientation and more positive mindsets about women’s belonging in STEM fields.

Originality/value

The study takes a novel approach by investigating the experiences of belonging in STEM fields, bringing to light new concepts about the different ways that groups experience belonging. The study uses the Appreciative Inquiry framing of questions to highlight the peak experiences of belonging.
Unboxing the links in understanding customer revisit intention: the role of customer love and experiential quality
Authors: Hossain Md Sazzad , Abuelhassan Abuelhssan Elshazly , Patwary Ataul Karim , Mostafiz Md Imtiaz
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the factors influencing customer love (physical environment, food quality, customer-to-customer interaction and innovativeness) and revisits intention in the restaurant industry in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied a quantitative technique that exceedingly prescribed a methodological approach to positivism from a philosophical stance. Following the purposive sampling, 456 questionnaires were distributed, and 394 were received from the restaurant customer for analysis.

Findings

Using the partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the salient findings have shown that physical environment, food quality, customer-to-customer interaction and innovativeness have a positive and significant effect on customer love. Besides, customer love is fully mediated between the influencing factors of customer love and revisit intention. The findings also show that customer experience quality actively moderates the factors influencing customer love. Finally, customer love has a positive and significant effect on revisit intention.

Originality/value

Restaurant managers may benefit from the study’s findings. It can be an essential blueprint for theoretical and practical implications. The study also recommends increasing the restaurant’s performance and remaining experienced customers for future transactions.
Study on the tribological and tribo-vibration characteristics of laser textured tapered roller bearings under full oil lubrication
Authors: Wang Yueyong , Liu Tianjiao , Luo Dan , Du Zunling , Yao Liang , Zhang Yimin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the influence of various laser texture parameters (diameter of pit, depth of pit and area density) on the tribological and tribo-vibration characteristics of tapered roller bearings (TRBs) under full oil lubricate conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The laser surface texture parameters include: the diameter of pit (D: 60 µm, 100 µm, 200 µm), the depth of pit (H: 5 µm, 10 µm, 20 µm) and the area density (S: 6%, 12%, 24%). The outer raceway used laser marking device to prepare many regular pits. The tribological and tribo-vibration characteristics of pitting laser textured TRBs under full oil lubrication were studied by using the MMX-1A universal wear tester machine and vibration testing equipment. Through experiment and analysis, the effects of raceway pitting textures on tribological and tribo-vibration noise performance of TRBs were summarized.

Findings

When pit-textured TRBs operate under full oil, compared with the non-textured bearings, the average coefficient of friction and wear amount are significantly reduced. When D = 100 µm, H = 10 µm, S = 12%, average coefficient of friction = 0.00195 and wear amount = 0.12 mg, they are all at their minimum values. Compared to the same condition of non-textured groups, the coefficient of friction decreases by 66.6%, and the wear amount decreases by 79.3%. The energy from time-frequency and power spectrum analyses is mainly concentrated at high frequencies, with the signal power of pitting textured groups being lower than non-textured when the Y-direction is around 3600 Hz.

Originality/value

The experimental work can provide a reference for the investigation on the pitting textured TRBs.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-09-2024-0357/
Modeling brand experience and brand equity association in the banking industry: mediating role of brand identification, attachment and engagement
Authors: Karim Rashed Al , Hoque Iffat Fayeza , Islam Mohammad Wahidul , Shamsun Faria
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the relationship between brand experience and brand equity in the private banking industry, focusing on the potential mediating effects of brand identification, attachment and engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was conveniently gathered from 293 customers with bank accounts in different private banks using a structured questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed using PLS-SEM.

Findings

The study found that brand identification, attachment, engagement and experience significantly influence brand equity. Furthermore, all three mediators mediate the correlation between brand experience and brand equity.

Practical implications

This study’s findings provide valuable insights for management and decision-makers in the private banking industry. They can use these insights to enhance their banks’ brand equity through exceptional brand experiences. This research also significantly contributes to the current body of knowledge on the importance of brand experience in developing brand equity and achieving business success in the banking sector.

Originality/value

This study makes a unique contribution to the existing body of knowledge by introducing the mediating roles of brand identification, attachment and engagement in the association between brand experience and brand equity. This enriches the current understanding of brand management strategies in the banking sector.
Navigating accounting reforms: a qualitative comparative analysis of accrual implementation in Italian local governments
Authors: Benfante Gioacchino , Casali Alessandro , Mozzoni Isabella , Ferretti Marco
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This research aims to contribute to the ongoing debate on the prospective advantages of implementing accrual accounting in countries where such a transition is underway, with a focus on Italian municipalities. The research seeks to ascertain the requisite conditions, in public sector accounting mangers’ perception, for a useful transition from modified cash accounting to full accrual accounting within the Italian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology adopted is Qualitative Comparative Analysis, which involves conducting a survey through semi-structured interviews with accounting managers in municipal accounting departments. The sample is drawn from municipalities in the Emilia-Romagna region with populations exceeding 15,000 inhabitants.

Findings

The study shows that some stakeholders have a tangible demand for financial statement information. They believe that accrual accounting statements provide accurate insights into municipal financial health and that these statements are comparable across municipalities. All these factors together constitute sufficient conditions for considering useful the implementation of accrual accounting in local governments, in the opinion of public sector accounting managers.

Originality/value

This paper contextualises the broader international debate on transitioning to full accrual accounting in the New Institutional Sociology framework. The Qualitative Comparative Analysis is an underutilised methodology within the field of public sector accounting, and the public sector accounting managers’ point of view is scarcely investigated in literature.
Use of videoconferencing in audit committee–auditor communication during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from Korea
Authors: Cho Meeok , Jo Jaehee , Jung Taejin , Kim Natalie Kyung Won
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine whether the use of videoconferencing for communication between the audit committee (AC) and auditors affects the quality of client firms’ audits.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes the mandatory disclosure information on AC–auditors communication using 1,065 Korean listed firm-years for the fiscal years 2020 and 2021. The details of AC–auditor communication (i.e. the extent of firms’ use of videoconferencing) are manually collected from audit reports.

Findings

This study finds that videoconferencing has a negative impact on audit quality, suggesting that it is not an effective communication medium between AC and auditors. The results are robust to alternative research designs (e.g. entropy-balanced sample, propensity score matching analysis and change analysis) that address endogeneity concerns. This study also finds that while the negative effect of videoconferencing is mitigated by holding more frequent AC meetings, neither AC independence nor expertise mitigates this effect.

Research limitations/implications

This paper suggests that videoconferencing may affect audit quality by hurting the discussion between the AC and auditors.

Practical implications

The findings that videoconferencing impairs the effectiveness of ACs and thus lowers audit quality have practical implications as the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed how AC members and auditors interact. This study offers timely and valuable insights into the potential implications of these pandemic-induced changes on audit environments.

Originality/value

This study provides large-sample empirical evidence that directly examines the effect of videoconferencing on audit quality, enhancing the understanding of the communication dynamics between the AC and auditors. This study also contributes to the literature on the role of ACs in emerging markets by highlighting the information processing role of the AC.
Context‐Based Interpretation of Financial Information
Authors: KIM ALEX G. , NIKOLAEV VALERI V.
Published: December 2024

To what extent does the narrative context surrounding the numbers in financial statements alter the informativeness of these numbers, that is, contextualize them? Answering this question empirically presents a methodological challenge. Leveraging recent advances in deep learning, we propose a method to uncover the value of contextual information learned from the (deep) interactions between numeric and narrative disclosures. We show that the contextualization of accounting numbers makes them substantially more informative in shaping beliefs about a firm's future, especially when numeric data are less reliable. In fact, the informational value of interactions dominates the direct informational value of the narrative context. We corroborate this finding by showing that stock markets and financial analysts incorporate the interactions between narrative and numeric information when making forecasts. We also demonstrate the value of our approach by identifying rich firm‐year–specific heterogeneity in earnings persistence. We discuss a number of avenues for future research.
Optimising Exome Captures in Species With Large Genomes Using Species‐Specific Repetitive DNA Blocker
Authors: Kesälahti Robert , Kumpula Timo A. , Cervantes Sandra , Kujala Sonja T. , Mattila Tiina M. , Tyrmi Jaakko S. , Niskanen Alina K. , Rastas Pasi , Savolainen Outi , Pyhäjärvi Tanja
Published: December 2024

Large and highly repetitive genomes are common. However, research interests usually lie within the non‐repetitive parts of the genome, as they are more likely functional, and can be used to answer questions related to adaptation, selection and evolutionary history. Exome capture is a cost‐effective method for providing sequencing data from protein‐coding parts of the genes. C0t‐1 DNA blockers consist of repetitive DNA and are used in exome captures to prevent the hybridisation of repetitive DNA sequences to capture baits or bait‐bound genomic DNA. Universal blockers target repetitive regions shared by many species, while species‐specific c0t‐1 DNA is prepared from the DNA of the studied species, thus perfectly matching the repetitive DNA contents of the species. So far, the use of species‐specific c0t‐1 DNA has been limited to a few model species. Here, we evaluated the performance of blocker treatments in exome captures of Pinus sylvestris, a widely distributed conifer species with a large (> 20 Gbp) and highly repetitive genome. We compared treatment with a commercial universal blocker to treatments with species‐specific c0t‐1 (30,000 and 60,000 ng). Species‐specific c0t‐1 captured more unique exons than the initial set of targets leading to increased SNP discovery and reduced sequencing of tandem repeats compared to the universal blocker. Based on our results, we recommend optimising exome captures using at least 60,000 ng of species‐specific c0t‐1 DNA. It is relatively easy and fast to prepare and can also be used with existing bait set designs.
Adherence to the Swedish paediatric guidelines for urinary tract infections
Authors: Lindén Magnus , Rosenblad Therese , Hansson Sverker , Brandström Per
Published: December 2024

Aim

To audit adherence to the Swedish paediatric guidelines for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in infants. Secondary objectives were to compare findings on imaging performed according to the guidelines with imaging without guideline support and to identify predictors of non‐adherence.

Methods

A prospective multicentre study of infants <1 year treated at paediatric hospitals for their first UTI. Adherence to recommendations was assessed for diagnosis, treatment, and imaging of the urinary tract with a follow‐up period of 1 year. Vesicoureteral reflux on voiding cystourethrography and findings on renal scintigraphy according to recommendations were compared to imaging without recommendation.

Results

A total of 1357 infants were included. Adherence to recommended diagnostic procedures, antibiotic treatment, and imaging was 86.1%, 91.0% and 64.2%, respectively. Non‐adherence to imaging recommendations was associated with inpatient management and smaller hospitals but was also more often due to excessive rather than refrained imaging.

Conclusion

High adherence rates to diagnostic and treatment recommendations indicate careful attention to infant UTI among paediatricians. Lower adherence to imaging recommendations raises concerns regarding the guideline algorithm; particularly, early DMSA scans seem to be challenging for smaller hospitals.
Altered Hippocampal Subfields Functional Connectivity in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Patients With Residual Dizziness: A Resting‐State fMRI Study
Authors: Chen Zhengwei , Xiao Lijie , Liu Yueji , Wei Xiue , Wang Zhuo , Cao Xingyi , Liu Haiyan , Zhai Yujia , Rong Liangqun
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore alterations in functional connectivity (FC) focusing on hippocampal subfields in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) patients with residual dizziness (RD) after successful canalith repositioning procedure (CRP).

Methods

We conducted resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) on 95 BPPV patients, comprising 50 patients with RD and 45 without. Seed‐to‐voxel and seed‐to‐seed analyses were employed to examine changes in FC between the two groups. The hippocampal subfields, including the bilateral dentate gyrus (DG), cornu ammonis (CA), entorhinal cortex (EC), subiculum, and hippocampal amygdalar transition area (HATA) were selected as seeds. Additionally, we assessed the relationship between abnormal FC and clinical symptoms.

Results

Seed‐to‐voxel analysis indicated that, compared to non‐RD patients, those with RD exhibited decreased FC between the right DG and right parietal operculum cortex, right HATA and right precuneus, left HATA and left precuneus, left EC and cerebellar vermis 8/−crus 1, and between the left subiculum and left angular gyrus. Conversely, we observed increased FC between the left CA and left lingual gyrus, as well as between the right CA and right fusiform gyrus in RD patients. Furthermore, these variations in FC were significantly correlated with clinical features including the duration of RD and scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and Dizziness Handicap Inventory.

Conclusion

BPPV patients with RD exhibited altered FC between hippocampal subfields and brain regions associated with spatial orientation and navigation, vestibular and visual processing, and emotional regulation. These findings offer novel insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms in BPPV patients with RD following successful CRP.
Urban Violence and Maxillofacial Trauma: Sex Differences in a Cross‐Sectional Study From Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Authors: Fernandes Ighor Andrade , de Paula Liliam Pacheco Pinto , Bastos Juliana Vilela , da Silveira Pinto Rafaela , Falci Saulo Gabriel Moreira , de Paula Silva Carlos José
Published: December 2024

Background/Aim

Urban violence represents a significant public health issue globally due to its profound impact on daily life and the high prevalence of victims seeking care in health services. This study aims to evaluate sex differences in victimization patterns, using maxillofacial trauma as a marker for urban violence.

Material and Methods

This cross‐sectional study analyzed data from medical records of patients treated for traumatic injuries at a referral hospital for traumatology in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, between January 2008 and December 2022. Statistical analysis included both descriptive and multivariate methods, with logistic regression used to examine the association between epidemiological variables and sex in cases of urban violence leading to maxillofacial trauma, especially those resulting from interpersonal violence and traffic accidents.

Results

A total of 6447 records were reviewed, with 32.5% of the cases involving female patients. Among female victims, the age group of 30 to 59 years was the most frequently affected. Violence predominantly occurred at night (75.8%) and on weekdays (52.8%), with most cases classified as naked aggression (71.4%). Women were less likely to sustain multiple fractures than men (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.57–0.92) when compared to dentoalveolar trauma. Additionally, female patients with facial trauma were more likely to receive conservative treatment compared to male patients (OR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.31–1.91).

Conclusion

Sex differences are an important parameter in understanding victimization patterns associated with maxillofacial injuries resulting from urban violence. Is the findings suggest that men are more frequently victims of severe trauma and are more likely to undergo surgical treatment for maxillofacial fractures than women.
Vascular risk factors are associated with grey matter atrophy in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: John Nevin A. , Li Yingtong , De Angelis Floriana , Stutters Jonathan , Prados Ferran , Doshi Anisha , Calvi Alberto , Williams Thomas , Plantone Domenico , Phan Thanh , Gandini Wheeler‐Kingshott Claudia A. M. , Barkhof Frederik , Chataway Jeremy ,   MS‐SMART Investigators
Published: December 2024

Background

Comorbidities including vascular risk factors can be associated with whole and regional brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis (MS). This has been examined in mixed MS cohorts in prospective or observational studies; however, the association between vascular comorbidities (VCM) in secondary progressive MS (SPMS) and brain atrophy has been less well studied. The aim was to investigate the cross‐sectional and longitudinal association between VCM, comorbidity burden and brain atrophy in SPMS.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of 445 participants from the MS–Secondary Progressive multi‐arm trial (MS‐SMART)−a multi‐arm multicentre phase‐2b randomised placebo‐controlled trial of three agents in SPMS (NCT01910259). VCM (hypertension, hyperlipidaemia) but also asthma, hypothyroidism and osteoporosis were recorded. Regional and whole brain volume (WBV), and percentage brain volume change were calculated using SIENAX and SIENA, respectively. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate the cross‐sectional and longitudinal relationships between VCM, overall comorbidity count and whole brain, grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) atrophy.

Results

The cohort was predominantly female (67%), mean age 55 with median EDSS 6.0. In total, 13% and 9% had hypertension and hyperlipidaemia, respectively. In cross‐sectional regression models, VCM was associated with decreased cortical GM volume [(hypertension β = −0.30, 95%CI −0.54 to −0.06, p = 0.01) (hyperlipidaemia β = −0.37, 95%CI −0.64 to −0.09, p = 0.008)]; but not WBV. Having ≥2 comorbidities was also associated with decreased cortical GM volume (β = −0.36, 95%CI −0.61 to −0.10, p = 0.007). No relationship was observed between VCM/comorbidity count and whole brain or GM atrophy rate over 96 weeks.

Conclusions

People with SPMS with VCM or increased overall comorbidity burden showed reduced whole brain and especially cortical grey matter volumes, but no significant impact on subsequent 2‐year atrophy rate was detected.
Tech‐driven excellence: A quantitative analysis of cutting‐edge technology impact on professional sports training
Authors: Huang Meiyan , Yongquan Tang
Published: December 2024

Aim

In recent years, the integration of cutting‐edge technology into professional sports training (ST) has revolutionized the way athletes prepare for competition. The study aims to quantitatively analyse the impact of cutting‐edge technology on enhancing performance, efficiency, and outcomes in professional ST programs.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how advanced technologies influence training effectiveness in professional sports, with a focus on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and overall athlete development.

Methods

This study utilized a quantitative descriptive research design to assess technology's impact on ST. A sample of 450 sports professionals, selected through purposive sampling, completed structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using SPSS to identify correlations between technology use and training outcomes.

Findings

The research findings indicate that athletes utilizing virtual reality (VR), AR, and wearable technology (WT) in their training exhibit significant improvements in performance metrics (PM) and a reduction in injury risks compared to those relying on traditional training methods.

Result

The study results demonstrate that technology‐assisted training improves cognitive skills (CS), decision‐making, and psychological aspects like motivation and focus. Additionally, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) enable more effective, personalized coaching strategies, enhancing overall training outcomes.

Originality

This study's contribution lies in its novel approach, demonstrating virtual and augmented reality, wearable tech, and advanced analytics enhance ST by improving performance, CS, and resilience, while also reducing injuries and speeding up recovery.

Conclusion

This research significantly advances the sports science domain by offering empirical evidence supporting technology integration, filling prevalent gaps in the current literature.
A Novel Approach to Identifying Appropriate Candidates for Transvenous Lead Extraction
Authors: Beccarino Nicholas J. , Guntaka Saimanoj , Needelman Brandon , Thangavelu Rachel , Gabriels James K. , Epstein Laurence M.
Published: December 2024

Background

The need for transvenous lead extractions (TLEs) in the setting of cardiac implantable electronic device‐(CIED) related infections continues to rise. Delays in referral for TLE in this setting are common and are associated with increased mortality.

Objective

To describe the outcomes of a comprehensive approach, including an electronic medical record (EMR)‐based notification algorithm designed to identify patients with active CIED‐related infections to facilitate timely TLE.

Methods

Following an interdepartmental education initiative at a high‐volume extraction center, an EMR based notification algorithm generated alerts for all inpatients with a CIED who received intravenous antibiotics or had positive blood cultures between September 2022 and February 2024. Patients deemed to be high risk underwent an electrophysiology consultation and were managed at the discretion of the treating electrophysiologist. Demographics, procedural details, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Results

1829 notifications were screened over the study period. Thirty‐nine consults were generated (2%). Of these patients, 18 TLEs were performed (46%). Patients who underwent TLE had MSSA (56%), MRSA (22%), enterococcus (11%), Serratia (5.6%), or S. gallolyticus (5.6%) bacteremia. The median time from the review to consultation was 1 day (IQR: 0, 1 days) and review to TLE was 2 days (IQR: 1, 2.75 days). Survival in the extraction group was 67% after a median follow‐up period of 133 days (IQR: 59, 223 days).

Conclusion

A comprehensive approach, including an EMR‐based notification algorithm allowed for the early identification of patients who were appropriate candidates for TLE due to CIED‐related infections. Use of this algorithm facilitated timely TLEs.
A Novel Injectable Polypeptide Nanoparticle Encapsulated siRNA Targeting TGF‐β1 and COX‐2 for Localized Fat Reduction II: Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Nestor Mark S. , Hetzel John , Awad Nardin , Bhupalam Vishnu , Lu Patrick , Molyneaux Michael
Published: December 2024

Background

Rising demand for non‐invasive body contouring is driven by aesthetics and the obesity epidemic. Deoxycholic acid (DCA) is the only FDA‐approved injectable for fat reduction but can cause side effects and significant local skin reactions (LSR). RNA interference, using small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules, offers targeted fat reduction by silencing genes involved in fat maintenance. STP705, a siRNA injectable targeting TGF‐β1 and COX‐2, has shown promising preclinical results both in vitro and in animal models.

Aims

To evaluate the safety and tolerability of STP705 for localized fat reduction in subjects undergoing abdominoplasty.

Methods

This phase I dose‐ranging, randomized, vehicle‐controlled trial involved eight females undergoing abdominoplasty who received subcutaneous STP705 injections at varying concentrations and volumes in designated abdominal zones. Safety assessments, including physical exams, lab tests, ECGs, and local skin reactions (LSRs), were conducted at baseline and follow‐ups. Histopathologic evaluations of biopsies collected during abdominoplasty assessed adipocyte apoptosis and tissue remodeling.

Results

STP705 demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no clinically significant changes in lab values, vital signs, or ECGs. Adverse events (AEs) were rare and transient. The incidence, intensity, and duration of LSRs were low throughout the study. Histological analysis revealed adipocyte destruction, fat remodeling, and necrosis.

Conclusion

STP705 was safe and very well‐tolerated and showed preliminary efficacy in inducing adipocyte apoptosis and tissue remodeling, suggesting a safer alternative or adjunct to existing fat reduction therapies. These findings support further trials to establish the safety and efficacy of STP705 for targeted fat reduction and body contouring.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05422378
A comparative analysis of gamete production in distylous Primula: Associations with floral traits and elevation
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Zeng Gui , Barrett Spencer C. H. , Xu Yuan , Hao Kai , Luo Shixiao , Zhang Dianxiang
Published: December 2024

Despite the importance of gamete production this topic has rarely been investigated in angiosperms using comparative approaches. Here, we investigated pollen and ovule numbers per flower in 73 species and 99 populations of Primula comprising both distylous and homostylous reproductive systems. We investigated whether phylogenetic relationships influenced associations between variation in gamete production, floral traits and elevation, and whether the evolutionary breakdown of distyly to homostyly resulted in parallel changes to gamete production. We used a Bayesian approach facilitated by the MCMCglmm method to model pollen and ovule traits across species and determined whether they exhibited phylogenetic signals. We detected significant positive correlations between pollen number and elevation in both the long‐styled and short‐styled morphs (L‐morph and S‐morph, respectively), whereas ovule number was not influenced by elevation. Pollen production was significantly higher in the L‐morph than in the S‐morph, but there was no significant difference between morphs in ovule number. Pollen volume exhibited a positive correlation with the style length of compatible morphs. The transition from distyly to homostyly was associated with significant decreases in pollen production but not ovule number. Our findings demonstrate the importance of elevation on pollen production, perhaps because of selection to improve pollen‐transfer efficiency in uncertain pollinator environments. In contrast, ovule number variation appears to be more constrained by phylogenetic relationships. Our comparative analyses of a well defined angiosperm lineage highlight the complex interactions between intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing gamete production in plants and emphasize the importance of considering pollen and ovule data separately.
Maybe later: Term limits and strategy behind candidate entry
Authors: Newton Jordon
Published: December 2024

While academics have examined how term limits affect elected officials, little work has gone into understanding the way they alter challenger behavior. I argue that they reduce the number of candidates who challenge incumbents, leading to a lock‐in effect. By increasing the frequency of open races, term limits incentivize potential challengers to wait for an open race. To demonstrate this, I analyze primary data from 85 legislative chambers in 44 states over a two‐decade period to see how term limits alter challenger entry patterns. I show that term‐limited incumbents face fewer challengers in their last two terms in office and challenges are weaker, while competition for open races ramps up. In doing so, I provide a major insight into how term limits alter challenger decision‐making to run for entry‐level office while improving our understanding of candidate entry by accounting for multiple potential points of entry.
Impact of short‐ and long‐duration thermal stress on antioxidant enzyme activity in Parthenium beetles
Authors: Yadav Priyanka , Patel Arvind Kumar , Singh Parinita , Verma Sourabh , Chowdhury Ritabrata , Kumar Bhupendra
Published: December 2024

Insects encounter variable temperature conditions in their natural habitats. Under non‐optimal temperatures, they experience thermal stress and oxidative damage, which are mitigated by antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and lipid peroxidation (LPO). While short‐term effects of thermal stress on antioxidant enzyme activities in insects are well understood, the long‐term effects are less explored. We investigated both short‐term (3 and 6 h) and long‐term (24 h) effects of thermal stress on SOD, CAT and LPO activities in the Parthenium beetle, Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister at cold (15°C), control/optimal (25°C) and hot (35°C) temperatures. Although Z. bicolorata is an effective biocontrol agent for noxious Parthenium weed, no prior study assessed the impact of thermal stress on antioxidant enzyme activities in this beetle. Our results revealed that antioxidant enzymes activities increased above control levels in both larvae and adults when exposed to thermal stress for short durations. Under long‐term thermal stress, CAT and LPO activities decreased below control levels, while SOD activity increased. Regardless of temperature conditions, early larval instars exhibited higher enzyme activities compared to later instars. In adults, males showed higher SOD and CAT activities, whereas LPO activity did not differ significantly between sexes. Our findings suggest that short‐term thermal stress can stimulate protective enzyme activity in these beetles and help them adapt to suboptimal temperatures. However, prolonged exposure may lead to excessive stimulation, potentially inhibiting protective enzyme activity and causing the beetles to activate alternative pathways to manage thermal stress. Moreover, fourth instars and adult females are the most thermal stress‐tolerant stages for Parthenium biocontrol.
Within‐ and between therapist variability in movement and physiological synchrony and its effects on symptom change
Authors: Uhl Jessica , Altmann Uwe , Rafaeli Eshkol , Bungart Patrick , Lutz Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

The predictive power of movement and electrodermal activity (EDA) synchrony has been demonstrated in various studies. Although most studies have examined each synchrony modality separately, a growing interest in the simultaneous investigation of multiple modalities has emerged. Previous research has demonstrated the importance of disentangling within and between‐dyad effects, however within and between‐therapist effects have yet to be investigated. The aim of the present study was to test whether movement and EDA synchrony (measured both within and between therapists) predict across‐session symptom change in two types of interventions (emotion‐focused vs. cognitive). The results are based on 990 session segments of 90 clients with test anxiety who were treated with a six‐session treatment program by 22 therapists, treating 3–15 clients each. Movement synchrony (on the basis of motion energy analysis (MEA) values) and EDA synchrony were quantified using cross‐correlations. Symptom severity was assessed before each session using the state test anxiety measure. Movement and EDA synchrony correlated negatively (−0.19, p < .001). Moreover, higher movement synchrony as well as an interaction between movement and EDA synchrony was significantly associated with symptom improvement within, but not between therapists. In addition, an interaction between EDA synchrony and cognitive (versus emotion‐focused) interventions was significantly associated with symptom improvement. These results provide initial evidence that therapists' average levels of synchrony may matter less than how synchronous they are with a specific client.
Emotion regulation strategies explain associations of theta and Beta with positive affect
Authors: Abid Arooj , Hamrick Hannah C. , Mach Russell J. , Hager Nathan M. , Judah Matt R.
Published: December 2024

Maladaptive emotion regulation (ER) strategies are a transdiagnostic construct in psychopathology. ER depends on cognitive control, so brain activity associated with cognitive control, such as frontal theta and beta, may be a factor in ER. This study investigated the association of theta and beta power with positive affect and whether emotion regulation strategies explain this association. One hundred and twenty‐one undergraduate students (mean age = 20.74, SD = 5.29; 73% women) completed self‐report questionnaires, including the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule. Spectral analysis was performed on resting state frontal electroencephalogram activity that was collected for eight 1‐min periods of alternating open and closed eyes. Relative beta and theta band power were extracted relative to global field power at frontal channels. Regression analysis revealed that positive affect is significantly predicted by theta power (β = 0.24, p = .007) and beta power (β = −0.33, p < .0001). There was an indirect effect of beta power on positive affect via reappraisal, but not suppression. Additionally, theta power significantly predicted suppression, but no indirect effect was observed between theta power and positive affect. These findings are consistent with a prior study reporting a positive and negative relationship between theta and beta power, respectively, and positive affect induction. This study elucidates how modulation of theta and beta bands link to ER strategies.
Solo Journeys: Understanding the Influence of Transnational Sexualities on LGBTQ+ Single Living Arrangements
Authors: Ghosh Apoorva
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the role of transnational sexualities—referring to how sexual identities and relationships are influenced by cross‐border movements and contexts—in shaping LGBTQ+ single living arrangements. By analyzing interdisciplinary literature, personal narratives, and empirical research, it examines how cultural, legal, and social dynamics influence singlehood across borders. Key factors include the impact of legal and socio‐cultural disparities, migration‐related instability, discrimination, and the pursuit of privacy and autonomy. The study also highlights the roles of financial independence and digital networks in facilitating single living. By exploring the connections between transnational sexualities, identity, and singlehood, this research provides fresh insights into LGBTQ+ living arrangements within a globally mobile and culturally diverse context.
Testudo graeca tripolitania, a new taxon of spur-thighed tortoise found in Libya at risk of exploitation for the international pet trade
Authors: Poterala Stephen F. , Rattay Paul , Johnson Aaron S. , Buijlayyil Murad S. A. , Kiraz Askin , Ajaj Ahmad M. S.
Published: December 2024

The spur-thighed tortoise, Testudo graeca, is a widely distributed and deeply diversified species inhabiting areas of Africa, Asia, and Europe. For decades, populations of T. graeca from North Africa have been exploited for the international pet market. In particular, T. graeca of Libyan origin have been commercially imported into the United States several times since 2021. Using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequencing, we show that these imported tortoises include T. g. cyrenaica and a novel lineage originally reported in 2017 from a displaced specimen from a market in Libya. That novel lineage inhabits northwestern Libya, and we show that wild populations near Gharyan share the same mtDNA haplotype as those now sold as pets in the USA. Populations of T. graeca in northwestern Libya, previously identified as T. g. nabeulensis, are reassigned to a new subspecies Testudo graeca tripolitania described herein. Additional field work is needed to determine the mtDNA haplotypes of populations in central and southern Tunisia and to locate the subspecies boundary between T. g. nabeulensis and T. g. tripolitania.
Multidisciplinary unravelling Cogan’s syndrome post-C-section: insights into diagnosis, treatment and a possible identified new trigger
Authors: Mala Nataliia , Zweigart Greta , Fiedler Lukas S
Published: December 2024

We present a case series consisting of three female patients in their 30s with presumed autoimmune uveitis resembling Cogan’s syndrome following caesarean sections (C-sections) with severe intraoperative bleeding and the use of chitosan-tamponade, exhibiting a combination of varying ocular and auditory symptoms postoperatively. Our patients displayed a range of inflammatory ocular changes, including stromal keratitis, panuveitis, retinal infiltrates, haemorrhages, optic disc swelling, and intraretinal and subretinal fluid, along with otalgia and hearing loss, consistent with typical and atypical Cogan’s syndrome. Treatment involved systemic corticosteroids, resulting in variable outcomes. Given the rarity of this disease and its occurrence in similar circumstances, we investigated for a possible common trigger. Vigilance for ocular and auditory symptoms post-C-section, severe blood loss or after the use of chitosan is emphasised, and further research into potential triggers is warranted.
Long-term sequelae of stage 4A ROP after successful management with lens-sparing vitrectomy
Authors: Bariya Sonia , Narang Subina , Jindal Varsha , Negi Reetika
Published: December 2024

We present an unusual case of a macular lesion, possibly a spontaneously closed macular hole, at a 4-year follow-up visit, after lens-sparing vitrectomy (LSV) in stage 4A retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Optical coherence tomography scans of the macula were suggestive of a spontaneously closed macular hole and fibrovascular proliferation at the equator. We hypothesise that tangential traction by residual posterior hyaloid could lead to late macular hole formation after LSV in ROP. There is a need to document this finding as this could throw some light on the late sequelae of LSV.
Limb salvage in Christmas disease masquerading as fungating aneurysmal bone cyst
Authors: Sehrawat Sandeep , Kapoor Love , Seth Tulika , Sampath Kumar Venkatesan
Published: December 2024

A boy in middle childhood presented with complaints of swelling and pain in his right forearm for 4 months. He had previously undergone left above-elbow amputation due to a suspected malignant tumour in that arm. Radiological imaging revealed a locally aggressive bone tumour of the right distal radius. Two biopsies failed to provide a diagnosis, and in the meantime the lesion became fungating. Consequently, it was decided to perform wide resection together with wrist arthrodesis. Postoperatively, on day 4, the patient developed wound dehiscence and impending compartment syndrome. During revision surgery, a significant quantity of blood clots was removed, without any active bleeders. Due to the uncertain diagnosis, thromboelastography (TEG) analysis was done, which showed a fibrinolytic pattern, and the patient's factor IX level was found to be 4% of the normal value. As a result, a diagnosis of haemophilia B was established. The patient was started on tranexamic acid and factor IX replacement therapy.
Right upper quadrant pain after previous blunt abdominal trauma: undiagnosed traumatic diaphragmatic hernia with strangulated right colon
Authors: Young Robert , Mukherjee Rajarshi
Published: December 2024

A woman in her 40s self-presented to an emergency department in a major trauma centre with severe right-sided abdominal pain, a tender right upper quadrant mass and chest pain. Diagnostic imaging showed a previously undiagnosed diaphragmatic hernia containing strangulated right colon. The patient had been the victim of a high-energy road traffic accident 18 months earlier, but at that time had not presented to hospital or undergone any outpatient investigation. This emergency presentation necessitated an emergency laparotomy, right colectomy, suture repair of diaphragmatic hernia and formation of ileo-colostomy. While a small number of similar cases have been documented, right-sided traumatic diaphragmatic herniae (TDH), where abdominal viscera bypass the liver and subsequently strangulate, are exceedingly rare. The evidence on delayed diagnosis of TDH is discussed and a system of follow-up for patients who suffer blunt abdominal trauma which is managed non-operatively is suggested.
Pancreatic pseudocyst after acute pancreatitis in children
Authors: Terleckytė Simona , Malinauskaitė Dovilė , Dženkaitis Mindaugas , Rokaitė Rūta
Published: December 2024

Acute pancreatitis in children is a rare condition; however, the incidence of this acute condition has been increasing over the past few decades. In most cases, acute pancreatitis does not cause severe complications in children, but in some cases, it can be complicated by fluid accumulation, fistulas and vascular pathologies, but the most common complication remains the formation of pseudocysts. This article describes the clinical case of a 11-year-old girl from Lithuania, which effectively illustrates a rare condition in children—acute pancreatitis and its developed complication—the formation of a pancreatic pseudocyst. The article discusses the frequency of acute pancreatitis and its complication, pancreatic pseudocyst in children, and the clinical expression of the disease and methods of diagnostics and treatment.
Costs of colorectal cancer screening in Sweden: an observational, longitudinal cost description
Authors: Johansson Naimi , Nystrand Camilla , Blom Johannes
Published: December 2024

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programmes have been implemented worldwide, but the evidence of the economic consequences of screening programmes relies on data from short-term trials. The aim of this paper was to describe the costs of CRC screening in a population-based screening programme, using administrative real-world data. Specifically, we aimed to estimate the annual costs of the screening programme and the total costs of the full programme over five consecutive screening rounds.

Methods

The CRC screening programme of Stockholm-Gotland, Sweden, targeted all resident men and women aged 60–69 years for biennial screening. The screening strategy was faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) sent to individuals’ home addresses, with a positive test result leading to an invitation to diagnostic colonoscopy. The cost description was conducted with a retrospective, bottom-up costing design from a healthcare perspective using (1) a prevalence-based approach and (2) an incidence-based approach, with two different study samples.

Results

Annual healthcare costs were estimated using a sample of 124 608 individuals who were affected by the screening programme in 2017. Annual healthcare costs of the screening programme summed up to €273 758 per 10 000 people, equivalent to €27.4 per eligible individual. The sum of costs for colonoscopy procedures was more than two times as high as the costs for FOBT. The costs of the full screening programme were estimated using a cohort of 92 689 individuals who were invited to five consecutive rounds of screening between 2009 and 2021. Total healthcare costs over five screening rounds were €960 654 per 10 000 people, equivalent to €96.1 per individual.

Conclusion

The costs of diagnostic colonoscopies for a minority of participants were driving the costs of the CRC screening programme. The ongoing population-based screening programme and high-quality individual level data with long-term follow-up provide the opportunity to thoroughly describe the costs of CRC screening.