bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the 1L curriculum make a difference?
Authors: Hyman David A. , Liu Jing , Teitelbaum Joshua C.
Published: April 2024

Georgetown Law's Curriculum B (also known as Section 3) offers a unique opportunity to study an alternative 1L curriculum. The standard 1L curriculum has been around for decades and is still offered at the vast majority of US law schools. Leaders in the legal academy often talk about experimenting with the 1L curriculum, but hardly anyone does it. Georgetown Law has. We study whether Georgetown's Curriculum B yields measurable differences in student outcomes. Our empirical design leverages the fact that enrollment in Curriculum B is done by lottery when it is oversubscribed—meaning our study is effectively a randomized controlled trial. We measure treatment effects of Curriculum B by comparing outcomes of students who received the treatment (Curriculum B) with outcomes of students who received the placebo (Curriculum A) but wanted the treatment. Because students in both the treatment and control groups elected to enroll in Curriculum B, our empirical design overcomes the issue of selection bias. We find that taking Curriculum B decreases students' performance in two business law electives (Corporations and Securities Regulation) and reduces the rate at which they graduate with Latin honors. In addition, we find that it increases students' propensity to take certain public law electives and decreases their propensity to take certain business law electives. We further find that taking Curriculum B decreases students' likelihood of working in the private sector (law firm or business/industry), increases their likelihood of working in the public sector (government or public interest) or doing a judicial clerkship, and reduces their average annual salary. At the same, however, we find no statistically significant effects on other outcomes, including students' cumulative grade point average, their chances of passing the bar exam or being employed 10 months after graduation, or their rate or amount of alumni giving.
Characteristics of teak trees and stands driving infestations by Xyleutes ceramica (Walker, 1865) (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) in plantations in Thailand
Authors: Choochuen Thanapol , Foit Jiří , Meunpong Ponthep , Suksavate Warong
Published: April 2024

The teak bee‐hole borer (Xyleutes ceramica (Walker, 1865)) is widespread in northern Thailand and is considered the most serious pest of teak (Tectona grandis) in the country. The present study investigated the factors affecting the infestation of teak trees by this species in three plantations in northern Thailand at different spatial scales, including the tree, plot and stand levels. At each plantation, 48 plots evenly distributed in three different young stands (1–10 years), three medium‐aged stands (11–20 years) and six old stands (exceeding 20 years) were sampled. At the plots, the number of current entrance holes of X. ceramica per teak tree was counted, and the characteristics of the trees and stands were assessed. A total of 1952 teak trees were sampled, 22.7% of which were infested by X. ceramica. According to our results, infestation was much more strongly affected by stand characteristics than by the characteristics of individual trees. Above all, understorey cover exhibited substantial effect with the infestation level being strongly limited in stands with dense understories. Additionally, young and medium‐aged stands on better quality sites were found to be the most susceptible to infestation, and well‐growing and/or damaged trees were preferred by the pest species. In conclusion, major recommendations for suppressing damage caused by X. ceramica include (a) promoting and maintaining the understorey above 30% cover, (b) planting mixed stands of commercial forest trees and (c) intensively monitoring the pest in young and medium‐aged stands, especially those growing at good‐ and medium‐quality sites.
Clinical outcomes and learning curve of Tip‐in endoscopic mucosal resection for 15–25 mm colorectal neoplasms among non‐experts
Authors: Shigeta Kohei , Kishida Yoshihiro , Hotta Kinichi , Imai Kenichiro , Ito Sayo , Takada Kazunori , Sato Junya , Minamide Tatsunori , Yamamoto Yoichi , Yoshida Masao , Maeda Yuki , Kawata Noboru , Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Matsubayashi Hiroyuki , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Tip‐in endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) has a high en bloc resection rate for large colorectal neoplasms. However, non‐experts' performance in Tip‐in EMR has not been investigated. We investigated whether Tip‐in EMR can be achieved effectively and safely even by non‐experts.

Methods

This retrospective study included consecutive patients who underwent Tip‐in EMR for 15–25 mm colorectal nonpedunculated neoplasms at a Japanese tertiary cancer center between January 2014 and December 2020. Baseline characteristics, treatment outcomes, learning curve of non‐experts, and risk factors of failing self‐achieved en bloc resection were analyzed.

Results

A total of 597 lesions were analyzed (438 by experts and 159 by non‐experts). The self‐achieved en bloc resection (69.8% vs 88.6%, P < 0.001) and self‐achieved R0 resection (58.3% vs 76.5%, P < 0.001) rates were significantly lower in non‐experts with <10 cases of experience than in experts, but not in non‐experts with >10 cases. Adverse event (P = 0.165) and local recurrence (P = 0.892) rates were not significantly different between experts and non‐experts. Risk factors of failing self‐achieved en bloc resection were non‐polypoid morphology (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.6–7.3, P = 0.001), lesions with an underlying semilunar fold (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6–7.3, P < 0.001), positive non‐lifting sign (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.2–8.0, P = 0.023), and non‐experts with an experience of ≤10 cases (OR 3.6, 95% CI 2.1–6.3, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The clinical outcomes of Tip‐in EMR for 15–25 mm lesions performed by non‐experts were favorable.
A new method for measuring industrial chain risk exposure: A regional perspective in China
Authors: Hongfu Ni , Daocheng Zhong , Siyi Peng
Published: April 2024

We extend the existing framework for decomposition of production length structure in global value chains and propose a novel concept and measure of industrial chain risk exposure on both the demand‐side and supply‐side at the region‐sector level in China. Using data from WIOD, ADB‐MRIOT, and China's multi‐regional input‐output tables, we measure and analyze the industrial chain risk exposures, and risk‐return ratios on the demand‐side and supply‐side of each region‐sector in China from 2002 to 2017. Our results reveal the following key insights: First, inland regions exhibit high domestic industrial chain risk exposures, while coastal regions have high global industrial chain risk exposures, a pattern consistent at the region‐industry level. Furthermore, demand‐side industrial chain risk exposures surpass supply‐side exposures within region‐sectors. Second, High‐tech manufacturing industries display greater risk exposure compared to other sectors. Third, Guangdong and Shanghai, as the main regions of China's international trade, share similar global industrial chain risk exposures to those of Germany and South Korea. Fourth, the bilateral demand‐side exposures of the industrial chains in each region are asymmetric.
A web‐based dynamic predictive model for postoperative nausea and vomiting in patient receiving gynecological laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Liu Jiang , Fang Shirong , Cheng Lin , Wang Liwei , Wang Yuwen , Gao Lunan , Liu Yuxiu
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a web‐based dynamic prediction model for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing gynecologic laparoscopic surgery.

Methods

The patients (N = 647) undergoing gynecologic laparoscopic surgery were included in this observational study. The candidate risk‐factors related to PONV were included through literature search. Lasso regression was utilized to screen candidate risk‐factors, and the variables with statistical significance were selected in multivariable logistic model building. The web‐based dynamic Nomogram was used for model exhibition. Accuracy and validity of the experimental model (EM) were evaluated by generating receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves. Hosmer–Lemeshow test was used to evaluate the goodness of fit of the model. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate the clinical practicability of the risk prediction model.

Results

Ultimately, a total of five predictors including patient‐controlled analgesia (odds ratio [OR], 4.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.98–12.44), motion sickness (OR, 4.80; 95% CI, 2.71–8.65), variation of blood pressure (OR, 4.30; 95% CI, 2.41–7.91), pregnancy vomiting history (OR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.44–3.43), and pain response (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.48–1.83) were selected in model building. Assessment of the model indicates the discriminating power of EM was adequate (ROC‐areas under the curve, 93.0%; 95% CI, 90.7%–95.3%). EM showed better accuracy and goodness of fit based on the results of the calibration curve. The DCA curve of EM showed favorable clinical benefits.

Conclusions

This dynamic prediction model can determine the PONV risk in patients undergoing gynecologic laparoscopic surgery.
Personal values and career‐related preferences among young adults
Authors: Lipshits‐Braziler Yuliya , Arieli Sharon , Daniel Ella
Published: April 2024

Objective

The present study investigated personal values underlying career‐related preferences among young adults deliberating on their career choice. As a fundamental component of one's identity, personal values can offer valuable insights into how individuals prioritize their career‐related preferences.

Method

We employed two complementary approaches: variable‐centered and person‐centered, using a sample of 636 young adults (69.5% women; Mage = 21.9, SD = 2.12).

Results

Using a variable‐centered approach, we identified 14 value‐expressive career‐related preferences, demonstrating that individuals are less willing to compromise on these preferences than on non value‐expressive preferences. Using a person‐centered approach, we applied latent profile analysis to identify four groups of young adults with distinct value profiles: (1) growth‐focus (n = 212; 33.3%), (2) protection‐focus (n = 206; 32.4%), (3) self‐focus (n = 122; 19.2%), and (4) social‐focus (n = 96; 15.1%). Importantly, the four profiles varied in 18 of 31 career‐related preferences, revealing the composition of values underlying these career preferences. Fourteen of these preferences were identified as value‐expressive in a variable‐centered approach.

Conclusion

The two complementary approaches employed in the present study introduce a fine‐grained understanding of the value‐expressiveness of career‐related preferences.
The impact of the spatial population distribution on economic growth: Evidence from the United States
Authors: Burgi Constantin , Gorgulu Nisan
Published: April 2024

We introduce a new class of measures called spatial population concentration (SPC) designed to quantify how many people live on average within a given radius of every person within a geographic area. The distinguishing feature relative to existing measures is that ours are the first to satisfy scale invariance, replication invariance, sensitivity to transfers, aggregativity, sensitivity to neighborhoods, invariance to uninhabited regions, concurrently. We calculate the SPC measure at the US county level for various radii and identify that the strongest relationship with subsequent economic growth can be found for a 25‐km radius. Interacting SPC with diverse infrastructure metrics does not alter the optimal radius. This indicates that regional policies such as infrastructure projects which influence density should strategically target the 25‐km distance range to maximize the growth impact. We also show that the importance of SPC has declined over time.
Enhancing pig growth and gut health with fermented Jatropha curcas cake: Impacts on microbiota, metabolites, and neurotransmitters
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Zhao Hua , Chen Xiaoling , Tian Gang , Liu Guangmang , Cai Jingyi , Jia Gang
Published: April 2024

Given the escalating global crisis in feed protein availability, Jatropha curcas L. cake has attracted significant interest as a viable alternative protein source in animal feed. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of fermented Jatropha curcas L. cake (FJCC) as a protein feed in the diet of pigs. A total of 96 growing pigs with an average weight of 27.60 ± 1.59 kg were divided into three dietary groups with varying FJCC inclusion levels (0, 2.5, and 5%) for a 28 d trial. Results showed that the diet with 5% FJCC (FJCC5) demonstrated significant improvements in average daily gain (p = 0.009), feed‐to‐gain ratio (p = 0.036), nutrient digestibility, and intestinal morphology. Furthermore, the FJCC5 diet resulted in a decrease in pH values in different gut sections (jejunum p = 0.045, cecum p = 0.001, colon p = 0.012), and favorably altered the profile of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) with increased butyric acid content (p = 0.005) and total SCFAs (p = 0.019). Additionally, this diet notably decreased IL‐6 levels in the jejunum (p = 0.008) and colon (=0.047), significantly reduced IL‐1 levels in the hypothalamus (p < 0.001), and lowered IL‐1, IL‐6, and IL‐10 levels in plasma (p < 0.05). Microbiota and metabolite profile analysis revealed an elevated abundance of beneficial microbes (p < 0.05) and key metabolites such as 4‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) (p = 0.003) and serotonin (5‐HT) (p = 0.022), linked to neuroactive ligand‐receptor interaction. Moreover, FJCC5 significantly boosted circulating neurotransmitter levels of 5‐HT (p = 0.006) and GABA (p = 0.002) in plasma and hypothalamus, with corresponding increases in precursor amino acids (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that FJCC, particularly at a 5% inclusion rate, can be an effective substitute for traditional protein sources like soybean meal, offering benefits beyond growth enhancement to gut health and potentially impacting the gut‐brain axis. This research underscores FJCC's potential as a valuable component in sustainable animal nutrition strategies.
Following urban predators – long‐term snow‐tracking data reveal changes in their abundance and habitat use
Authors: Krauze‐Gryz D. , Jackowiak M. , Klich D. , Gryz J. , Jasińska K. D.
Published: April 2024

Urban habitats differ from natural environments, however some predatory species have become established in cities across the globe. The aim of our study was to compare the occurrence of the red fox and the stone marten in Warsaw during three time periods (1976–1978, 2005–2008, 2015–2021) and in different habitats. Generalized linear models were used to show factors affecting the density indices of these two species (i.e., frequency of occurrence of tracks of each species recorded during snow tracking on linear transects). The frequency of occurrence of tracks of these two species on transects increased over time and was explained by habitat type and distance from the city centre. The frequency of fox tracks was higher in more‐natural habitats located far from the city centre. In the first period (1976–1978), this species was recorded only in forests and riparian areas. In the last period (2015–2021), its tracks were recorded frequently in built‐up areas and cemeteries. From the beginning of the first period, the stone marten was recorded in a wider range of habitats than the fox and it colonized all habitat types in the subsequent periods, but a statistically significant increase was observed only for cemeteries. The frequency of occurrence of stone marten tracks was lower than that of red fox tracks in most natural and seminatural habitats (forests, parks, riparian areas). No relationship between the occurrence of the red fox and the stone marten was found. We speculate that the growth of the urban red fox numbers was driven by an increase in the national population as a result of anti‐rabies vaccinations. In turn, the stone marten, being a synanthropic species, was present in the city centre from the beginning of the study, but it now occurs in a wider range of habitats.
Regulatory interactions between daptomycin‐ and bacitracin‐responsive pathways coordinate the cell envelope antibiotic resistance response of Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Morris Sali M. , Wiens Laura , Rose Olivia , Fritz Georg , Rogers Tim , Gebhard Susanne
Published: April 2024

Enterococcal infections frequently show high levels of antibiotic resistance, including to cell envelope‐acting antibiotics like daptomycin (DAP). While we have a good understanding of the resistance mechanisms, less is known about the control of such resistance genes in enterococci. Previous work unveiled a bacitracin resistance network, comprised of the sensory ABC transporter SapAB, the two‐component system (TCS) SapRS and the resistance ABC transporter RapAB. Interestingly, components of this system have recently been implicated in DAP resistance, a role usually regulated by the TCS LiaFSR. To better understand the regulation of DAP resistance and how this relates to mutations observed in DAP‐resistant clinical isolates of enterococci, we here explored the interplay between these two regulatory pathways. Our results show that SapR regulates an additional resistance operon, dltXABCD, a known DAP resistance determinant, and show that LiaFSR regulates the expression of sapRS. This regulatory structure places SapRS‐target genes under dual control, where expression is directly controlled by SapRS, which itself is up‐regulated through LiaFSR. The network structure described here shows how Enterococcus faecalis coordinates its response to cell envelope attack and can explain why clinical DAP resistance often emerges via mutations in regulatory components.
Effectiveness of interventions to reduce social inequalities of weight status in adolescents: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dakin Mohamed , Omorou Abdou Yacoubou , Guillemin Francis
Published: April 2024

Many interventions are implemented in the public health context to overcome social inequalities of weight status in adolescents, but their effectiveness is challenged. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of these interventions with a systematic review and meta‐analysis. We systematically searched for reports of randomized control trials and quasi‐experimental studies aiming to reduce social inequalities of weight status in adolescents in five electronic databases. The primary outcomes were social inequalities in weight‐related outcomes (body mass index [BMI], BMI z score, waist circumference, percent body fat, prevalence of overweight/obesity). Interventions were effective when they reduced social inequalities in at least one weight‐related outcome. Meta‐analyses involved using random‐effects models. The review included 38 publications (33 studies) with interventions mostly targeting disadvantaged adolescents (n = 29 studies), showing effectiveness in half of the studies (n = 19/33, 57.6%). The meta‐analysis (27 studies) revealed that targeted interventions significantly reduced BMI z score (β = −0.04 [95% CI −0.08, −0.01]), BMI (β = −0.32 [−0.47, −0.18]), and waist circumference (β = −0.84 [−1.48, −0.21]) but not percent body fat (β = −0.27 [−0.71, 0.17]) or prevalence of overweight/obesity (odds ratio = 1.06 [0.85, 1.31]). This review shows moderate effectiveness of interventions targeting disadvantaged adolescents to reduce social inequalities of weight status. High‐quality research with better implementation to reach their full potential is required to strengthen their effectiveness.
The Long‐term Efficacy of Total Knee Arthroplasty on End‐stage Kashin–Beck Disease of the Knee in Highland Tibetan Areas Patients: A Retrospective Study with 10‐Year Follow‐up
Authors: Sun Haocheng , Lai Yahao , Ding Zichuan , Cai Yongrui , Luo Zeyu , Zhou Zongke
Published: April 2024

Objective

Despite the established success of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with end‐stage osteoarthritis, there is a notable scarcity of research on its long‐term outcomes in individuals suffering from end‐stage Kashin–Beck disease (KBD). This retrospective study aimed to assess the long‐term outcomes and effectiveness of clinical function, quality of life, and complications of TKA and end‐stage KBD patients in Tibetan highland areas.

Methods

The retrospective cohort included 43 KBD patients, comprising a total of 59 knees, who had undergone TKA at West China Hospital, Sichuan University between 2008 and 2021. Patients were subsequently followed up for a minimum of 3 years, and received rigorous radiological and clinical assessments at 3, 6, and 12 months post surgery, followed by annual examinations thereafter. The evaluation included various efficacy indices, including visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, hospital for special surgery (HSS) scores, functional score for adult Tibetans with Kashin–Beck disease (FSAT‐KBD), and radiographic findings. Comparison of indicators within the same group was conducted using one‐way repeated‐measures analysis of variance or paired sample t‐tests, whereas between‐group differences were compared using an independent t‐test.

Results

Throughout the average follow‐up duration of 10.8 years, patients experienced a substantial reduction in knee pain and noteworthy functional improvement. The VAS scores decreased significantly from 77.47 ± 4.12 mm before surgery to 10.91 ± 1.97 mm after surgery, indicating considerable alleviation of knee pain. The HSS scores improved markedly, increasing from 44.26 ± 4.95 preoperatively to 91.26 ± 4.37, indicating enhanced joint function. Similarly, the FSAT‐KBD exhibited positive progression, increasing from 25.90 ± 3.12 to 36.95 ± 3.54. Importantly, at the last follow‐up, none of the patients presented with periprosthetic infection, prosthesis loosening, or periprosthetic fracture.

Conclusion

At long‐term follow‐up, compared with patients in the preoperative period, patients in Tibetan highland areas with KBD of the knee who underwent TKA benefited from a significant reduction in pain, improvement in joint function, and satisfactory improvement in quality of life.
Life Expectancy Reversals in Low‐Mortality Populations
Authors: Goldstein Joshua R. , Lee Ronald D.
Published: April 2024

Behind the steady march of progress toward longer life expectancy in many low‐mortality countries, there have been setbacks even before the Covid‐19 pandemic. In this paper, we use an exploratory approach to describe the temporal structure, age patterns, and geographic aspects of life expectancy reversals. We find that drops in life expectancy are often followed by larger than average improvements, which tells us that most reversals are transitory with little long‐term influence. The age structure of mortality decline when life expectancy falls is tilted toward older ages, a pattern that is quite different from the general pattern of mortality improvement. Geographic analysis shows that mortality reversals are correlated across neighboring countries like Italy and France, or Canada and the United States. These findings are consistent with contagious disease and weather being important causes of life expectancy reversals. We conclude with a discussion of implications for formal modeling and forecasting of mortality to accommodate these patterns that violate some standard assumptions.
Editorial comment on “Benralizumab in children with severe eosinophilic asthma: Pharmacokinetics and long‐term safety (TATE study)”
Authors: Cabrera‐Perez Javier S. , Eigenmann Philippe , Akenroye Ayobami
Published: April 2024

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Gradients in embolism resistance within stems driven by secondary growth in herbs
Authors: Haverroth Eduardo J. , Rimer Ian M. , Oliveira Leonardo A. , de Lima Leydson G. A. , Cesarino Igor , Martins Samuel C. V. , McAdam Scott A. M. , Cardoso Amanda A.
Published: April 2024

The stems of some herbaceous species can undergo basal secondary growth, leading to a continuum in the degree of woodiness along the stem. Whether the formation of secondary growth in the stem base results in differences in embolism resistance between the base and the upper portions of stems is unknown. We assessed the embolism resistance of leaves and the basal and upper portions of stems simultaneously within the same individuals of two divergent herbaceous species that undergo secondary growth in the mature stem bases. The species were Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Senecio minimus (fireweed). Basal stem in mature plants of both species displayed advanced secondary growth and greater resistance to embolism than the upper stem. This also resulted in significant vulnerability segmentation between the basal stem and the leaves in both species. Greater embolism resistance in the woodier stem base was found alongside decreases in the pith‐to‐xylem ratio, increases in the proportion of secondary xylem, and increases in lignin content. We show that there can be considerable variation in embolism resistance across the stem in herbs and that this variation is linked to the degree of secondary growth present. A gradient in embolism resistance across the stem in herbaceous plants could be an adaptation to ensure reproduction or basal resprouting during episodes of drought late in the lifecycle.
Comparative analysis of antioxidant enzyme activity and defence responses in root‐knot nematode resistant and susceptible carrot cultivars
Authors: Jahanbazian Leila , Mahdikhani‐Moghadam Esmat , Charehgani Habiballah , Afsharifar Alireza
Published: April 2024

Root‐knot nematodes (RKNs) are one of the most serious pests of carrot plants. Resistance cultivars are a cost‐effective and ecofriendly management strategy for nematodes. To develop these, it is essential to understand the genetic, molecular and biochemical aspects underpinning RKN infection. Here, Meloidogyne javanica penetration and development, defence reactions and antioxidant enzyme activity were investigated in a resistant carrot cultivar (TN‐99‐129) compared to the susceptible cultivar TN‐99‐62. No significant difference was found in the number of J2s penetrating the roots of both cultivars. At 2 days post‐inoculation (DPI), necrosis symptoms were observed around the head of penetrated nematodes. Cell death also increased in the roots of the nematode‐infected TN‐99‐129 cultivar. Callose deposition happened at 6 DPI, and lignin content increased with delay (21 DPI) in the inoculated resistant cultivar. In addition, the reactive oxygen species metabolism process in resistant and susceptible cultivars was significantly different. In TN‐99‐129, catalase activity inhibition was observed at the early (2 DPI) phases of infection, and increasing superoxide dismutase activity and a relative decrease in catalase activity during nematode development. The activity of guaiacol peroxidase also increased significantly in the resistant cultivar, but no significant difference was observed in the activity of ascorbate peroxidase. This study explains the process of defence reactions in the TN‐99‐129 carrot cultivar during RKN penetration and development. The exhaustive characterization of the defence mechanism of a novel source of resistance to RKN in carrots constitutes a significant step toward their use in crop breeding.
Sexual health variation among gang‐involved youth in Washington state: Social ecological implications for research and practice
Authors: Bishop Asia S. , Nurius Paula S. , Walker Sarah C. , Oxford Monica L.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Gang‐involved youth experience greater disparities in sexual health compared to non‐gang‐involved youth. Yet, little is known about how and why sexual behaviors vary within the youth gang population. Developing relevant and effective service approaches requires an understanding of this variation and the environmental factors that influence patterns of sexual health risk.

Methodology and Results

Using latent class analysis, we identified four sexual behavior classes within a school‐based sample of gang‐involved youth in Washington State (N = 2060): Non‐Sexually Active (54%), Limited Partners with Condom Use (14%), Multiple Partner with Sexting (19%), and High Sexual Vulnerability (13%). These classes were distinguished by age at sexual debut, number of sexual partners, condom use, and sexting. Interpersonal and macrosocial factors differentiated the classes, including multiform violence exposures, limited social support, and socioeconomic instability. We also found differences according to sexual identity and substance use.

Discussion

Findings highlight the need for service approaches that are responsive to both the individual needs of gang‐involved youth and the factors that shape their living environments. We discuss the implications for research and practice, including the potential utility of a harm reduction framework to promote sexual health and reduce disparities in the youth gang population.
Abortion needs expressed on Reddit after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in the United States
Authors: John Jennifer Neda , Martin Zelly C.
Published: April 2024

Context

Women, transgender men, and gender non‐binary individuals facing unwanted pregnancy use online resources for abortion information. We sought to determine the informational and emotional needs that those seeking abortion information on Reddit expressed immediately following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization (Dobbs) decision in the United States. Furthermore, we aimed to understand how the Reddit community addressed these needs.

Methods

We collected posts on Reddit in the subreddit r/abortion that expressed informational or emotional needs related to the Dobbs decision created between June 24, 2022 and July 24, 2022. We identified posts using keywords including “roe,” “rvw,” and “trigger law” and then manually reviewed them to ensure relevance. We analyzed posts and their comments using qualitative descriptive analysis.

Results

One hundred and ten posts met inclusion criteria. Original posters expressed needs for legal and medical information. Posters also expressed need for logistical support, including help accessing medication abortion, traveling out of state, and financing abortion care, and emotional support in general and resulting from fear of parental disapproval and shame relating to abortion stigma. Although responders to these comments addressed these needs by offering general support, accurate information, and reliable resources, intersecting and emotional needs sometimes went unaddressed.

Conclusion

The Dobbs decision caused confusion and panic among abortion seekers requesting guidance on r/abortion, resulting in informational and emotional needs. While the r/abortion community actively addressed needs, inherent limitations of an online forum prevented some original posters from receiving the multifaceted support they needed.
No additive effect of creatine, caffeine, and sodium bicarbonate on intense exercise performance in endurance‐trained individuals
Authors: Moesgaard Lukas , Jessen Søren , Christensen Peter Møller , Bangsbo Jens , Hostrup Morten
Published: April 2024

Background

Athletes commonly use creatine, caffeine, and sodium bicarbonate for performance enhancement. While their isolated effects are well‐described, less is known about their potential additive effects.

Methods

Following a baseline trial, we randomized 12 endurance‐trained males (age: 25 ± 5 years, VO2max: 56.7 ± 4.6 mL kg−1 min−1; mean ± SD) and 11 females (age: 25 ± 3 years, VO2max: 50.2 ± 3.4 mL kg−1 min−1) to 5 days of creatine monohydrate (0.3 g kg−1 per day) or placebo loading, followed by a daily maintenance dose (0.04 g kg−1) throughout the study. After the loading period, subjects completed four trials in randomized order where they ingested caffeine (3 mg kg−1), sodium bicarbonate (0.3 g kg−1), placebo, or both caffeine and sodium bicarbonate before a maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), 15‐s sprint, and 6‐min time trial.

Results

Compared to placebo, mean power output during 15‐s sprint was higher following loading with creatine than placebo (+34 W, 95% CI: 10 to 58, p = 0.008), but with no additional effect of caffeine (+10 W, 95% CI: −7 to 24, p = 0.156) or sodium bicarbonate (+5 W, 95% CI: −4 to 13, p = 0.397). Mean power output during 6‐min time trial was higher with caffeine (+12 W, 95% CI: 5 to 18, p = 0.001) and caffeine + sodium bicarbonate (+8 W, 95% CI: 0 to 15, p = 0.038), whereas sodium bicarbonate (–1 W, 95% CI: −7 to 6, p = 0.851) and creatine (–6 W, 95% CI: −15 to 4, p = 0.250) had no effects.

Conclusion

While creatine and caffeine can enhance sprint‐ and time trial performance, respectively, these effects do not seem additive. Therefore, supplementing with either creatine or caffeine appears sufficient to enhance sprint or short intense exercise performance.
The novel HLA‐DQA1*05:05:17:03 allele, identified in a potential organ donor
Authors: Al Agbar Sabina , Sharma Arpit , Cohoe Elsa , Beaune David , Sidahmed Abubaker M. E.
Published: April 2024

HLA‐DQA1*05:05:17:03 differs from HLA‐DQA1*05:05:01:02 by a single base substitution in exon 1 and HLA‐DQA1*05:05:17:01 within introns 1 and 2.
Surgical patients' perception about risks related to blood transfusion: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Dev Kapeel , Ahmed Aliya
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the perception of surgical patients at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) about the risks related to blood transfusion. The ultimate aim was to influence patients' acceptability of blood transfusion by reducing their fears through effective counselling.

Background

AKUH has a hospital‐based blood bank with more than 90% family replacement donation. Many patients perceive blood transfusion as a risky procedure. This survey will help healthcare practitioners in addressing patients' concerns more effectively while counselling them about blood transfusion.

Methods/materials

It was a cross‐sectional survey of patients attending anaesthesia clinic at AKUH during the study period. It assessed patients' perception about adverse effects associated with blood transfusion.

Results

A total of 363 patients were included. Among the participants, 18% considered blood transfusion to be very often or always risky. Blood transfusion related infections were considered most frequently occurring adverse events. Female patients were more concerned about the risks (p = 0.046).

Conclusion

Many patients consider blood transfusion as a high‐risk procedure. Healthcare professionals need to understand patient's perceptions and conduct patient counselling accordingly. This will help physicians in addressing patient‐specific concerns related to blood transfusion. Improved knowledge is hoped to translate into improvement in transfusion practices at the national level.
A robust high‐throughput functional screening assay for plant pathogen effectors using the TMV‐GFP vector
Authors: Cao Peng , Shi Haotian , Zhang Shuangxi , Chen Jialan , Wang Rongbo , Liu Peiqing , Zhu Yingfang , An Yuyan , Zhang Meixiang
Published: April 2024

Uncovering the function of phytopathogen effectors is crucial for understanding mechanisms of pathogen pathogenicity and for improving our ability to protect plants from diseases. An increasing number of effectors have been predicted in various plant pathogens. Functional characterization of these effectors has become a major focus in the study of plant–pathogen interactions. In this study, we designed a novel screening system that combines the TMV (tobacco mosaic virus)‐GFP vector and Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression in the model plant Nicotiana benthamiana. This system enables the rapid identification of effectors that interfere with plant immunity. The biological function of these effectors can be easily evaluated by observing the GFP fluorescence signal using a UV lamp within just a few days. To evaluate the TMV‐GFP system, we initially tested it with well‐described virulence and avirulence type III effectors from the bacterial pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum. After proving the accuracy and efficiency of the TMV‐GFP system, we successfully screened a novel virulence effector, RipS1, using this approach. Furthermore, using the TMV‐GFP system, we reproduced consistent results with previously known cytoplasmic effectors from a diverse array of pathogens. Additionally, we demonstrated the effectiveness of the TMV‐GFP system in identifying apoplastic effectors. The easy operation, time‐saving nature, broad effectiveness, and low technical requirements of the TMV‐GFP system make it a promising approach for high‐throughput screening of effectors with immune interference activity from various pathogens.
Characterization of a novel mouse platelet transfusion model
Authors: Gordy Dominique , Swayne Theresa , Berry Gregory J. , Thomas Tiffany A. , Hudson Krystalyn E. , Stone Elizabeth F.
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives

Platelet transfusions are increasing with medical advances. Based on FDA criteria, platelet units are assessed by in vitro measures; however, it is not known how platelet processing and storage duration affect function in vivo. Our study's aim was to develop a novel platelet transfusion model stored in mouse plasma that meets FDA criteria adapted to mice, and transfused fresh and stored platelets are detectable in clots in vivo.

Study Design and Methods

Platelet units stored in mouse plasma were prepared using a modified platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) collection protocol. Characteristics of fresh and stored units, including pH, cell count, in vitro measures of activity, including activation and aggregation, and post‐transfusion recovery (PTR), were determined. Lastly, a tail transection assay was conducted using mice transfused with fresh or stored units, and transfused platelets were identified by confocal imaging.

Results

Platelet units had acceptable platelet and white cell counts and were negative for bacterial contamination. Fresh and 1‐day stored units had acceptable pH; the platelets were activatable by thrombin and adenosine diphosphate, agreeable with thrombin, had acceptable PTR, and were present in vivo in clots of recipients after tail transection. In contrast, 2‐day stored units had clinically unacceptable quality.

Conclusion

We developed mouse platelets for transfusion analogous to human platelet units using a modified PRP collection protocol with maximum storage of 1 day for an ‘old’ unit. This provides a powerful tool to test how process modifications and storage conditions affect transfused platelet function in vivo.
Novel factors potentially initiating acute antibody‐mediated rejection in pig kidney xenografts despite an efficient immunosuppressive regimen
Authors: Kinoshita Kohei , Maenaka Akihiro , Rosales Ivy A. , Karadagi Ahmad , Tomosugi Toshihide , Ayares David , Lederman Seth , Colvin Robert B. , Kawai Tatsuo , Pierson Richard N. , Kobayashi Takaaki , Cooper David K. C.
Published: April 2024

Antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) is a common cause of graft failure after pig‐to‐nonhuman primate organ transplantation, even when the graft is from a pig with multiple genetic modifications. The specific factors that initiate AMR are often uncertain. We report two cases of pig kidney transplantation into immunosuppressed baboons in which we identify novel factors associated with the initiation of AMR. In the first, membranous nephropathy was the initiating factor that was then associated with the apparent loss of the therapeutic anti‐CD154 monoclonal antibody in the urine when severe proteinuria was present. This observation suggests that proteinuria may be associated with the loss of any therapeutic monoclonal antibody, for example, anti‐CD154 or eculizumab, in the urine, resulting in xenograft rejection. In the second case, the sequence of events and histopathology tentatively suggested that pyelonephritis may have initiated acute‐onset AMR. The association of a urinary infection with graft rejection has been well‐documented in ABO‐incompatible kidney allotransplantation based on the expression of an antigen on the invading microorganism shared with the kidney graft, generating an immune response to the graft. To our knowledge, these potential initiating factors of AMR in pig xenografts have not been highlighted previously.
Support varieties without the tensor product property
Authors: Bergh Petter Andreas , Plavnik Julia Yael , Witherspoon Sarah
Published: April 2024

We show that over a perfect field, every non‐semisimple finite tensor category with finitely generated cohomology embeds into a larger such category where the tensor product property does not hold for support varieties.
Static dielectric response and screening in solid state physics: Why dimensionality matters in dielectrics
Authors: Villegas Cesar E. P. , Vasquez-Marcani Aider , Rocha Alexandre R.
Published: April 2024

Textbooks often present the phenomenon of screening within the Thomas–Fermi model for three-dimensional free electron gases, but obtaining the dielectric response function and screening potential for dielectric systems of reduced dimensionality is also of pedagogical interest. In this work, we introduce a simple approach to investigate static screening in dielectric systems in the presence of an impurity charge for different dimensionalities. This approach is applicable to semiconductors and insulators alike. We demonstrate that, in 3D systems, the macroscopic dielectric function in reciprocal space is a constant, while in 2D and 1D systems, it strongly depends on the momentum transferred to the electrons in the dielectric. Through the proposed dielectric screening model, one can also determine binding energies in a hydrogenic model that can be used to describe excitations in real semiconductor systems.
Whose work matters? A tool for identifying and developing more inclusive physics textbooks
Authors: Xiang Tai , Gray William , Hudgings Janice
Published: April 2024

The lack of representational diversity and role models in physics, including in our textbooks and curricular materials, is an oft-cited contributing factor to the continuing dramatic under-representation of women and people of color in physics. In this work, we develop an automated, Python-based tool for identifying the names and demographics of scientists who are mentioned in indices and chapters of physics textbooks, enabling authors, publishers, and users of physics textbooks to rapidly analyze the demographics of these texts. We quantitatively validate the automated tool using standard machine learning metrics, attaining high accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 scores. The tool is then used to demonstrate two of the many potential applications: examining whose work is mentioned in the entire collection of textbooks used in a representative four-year undergraduate physics major curriculum as well as an analysis of the demographics of scientists mentioned in a selection of ten introductory physics textbooks. Both of the sample analyses result in a similar portrait, showing that the undergraduate physics textbooks examined in this work focus overwhelmingly on work attributed to White men of European, British, and North American descent. This work points to an urgent need for the physics education community, including textbook publishers, authors, and adopters, to work together to broaden our portrayals of physics to reflect the vast diversity of scientists, both historically and contemporaneously, who are working in this field.
A modern interpretation of Newton's theorem of revolving orbits
Authors: Samboy Nolan , Gallant Joseph
Published: April 2024

Newton's Theorem of Revolving Orbits derives the force that is necessary to explain a particular precession that leaves the shape of an orbit unchanged. Newton showed that for an orbiting body that is already subject to any central force, the inclusion of an additional inverse-cube central force will change that body's angular speed without affecting its radial motion; this leads to the orbit's precession. After reviewing the relevant concepts of Kepler orbits, we present a full description and explanation of Newton's theorem using modern physical and mathematical approaches aimed at a general audience. We specifically highlight the use of the transformation between a rotating reference frame and an inertial reference frame, making this a suitable topic for an upper-level undergraduate mechanics course.
Magnetic hyperfine interaction made easier
Authors: Saslow Wayne M.
Published: April 2024

We present two derivations of the hyperfine interaction in the ground state of hydrogen using classical electrodynamics. We calculate, at the site of the proton moment m→p, the magnetic field B→e due to the magnetization source M→e(r→) of the relatively extended 1 s electron state. This gives the magnetic interaction via −m→p·B→e. One derivation applies the Biot–Savart law to the bound 1 s electric current J→b=∇→×M→ to directly find B→e; the other derivation applies the magnetic version of the Coulomb Law to the bound 1 s magnetic charge density ρb=−∇→·M→ to first obtain μ0H→e and then adds μ0M→ to find B→e. We show, for any source M→, that these two approaches give the same B→(r→), as is expected within classical electrodynamics.
An in-fiber Mach–Zehnder strain sensor for studying multimode interference of light
Authors: Zhang Gang , Xu Linguang , Ge Qiang
Published: April 2024

Multimode interference of light is an optical interference phenomenon based on waveguides, which has broad applications in optical communication, lasers, and optical fiber sensing. Since optical fiber has become the most widely used optical waveguide in modern society, multimode interference in optical fibers is an ideal candidate for projects in university teaching laboratories. Here, we implement an in-fiber Mach–Zehnder strain sensor-based experiment to study multimode interference in optical fibers. The sensor is fabricated by fusion splicing a piece of thin core fiber between two single mode fibers. One end of the thin core fiber is spliced without a core offset, while the other end is spliced with a core offset. Due to the mode field diameter mismatch and core offset, cladding modes are excited and interfere with the core mode in thin core fiber. Students can observe the sensor fabrication demonstration and perform a strain test with an optical spectrum analyzer. The wavelength spectra captured by the optical spectrum analyzer under different strains are analyzed with the signal processing tools of fast Fourier transform and fast Fourier transform filter. Students then find characteristics of the multimode interference in the sensor from the analysis. The experiment extends undergraduates' knowledge of light interference and is an instructive exercise for them in modern coherence theory.
Which is greater: eπ or πe? An unorthodox physical solution to a classic puzzle
Authors: Vallejo Andrés , Bove Italo
Published: April 2024

The question of the title is a famous mathematical puzzle and can be addressed by several approaches. In this contribution, we present an alternative solution based on the second law of thermodynamics. The method can be extended to derive a more general result involving the exponential function.