bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of mogamulizumab on the aberrant T cell population in the peripheral blood – A monocentric retrospective analysis
Authors: Gosmann Janika , Bielefeld Annette , Schmitz Franz‐Josef , Schaper‐Gerhardt Katrin , Gutzmer Ralf , Stadler Rudolf
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives

The effect of mogamulizumab in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) on T cells (TC) in the peripheral blood and its potential role to navigate treatment intervals are explored.

Methods

We investigated within a retrospective monocentric analysis the effect of mogamulizumab on the CD3+ TC and the aberrant T cell population (TCP), i.e., the CD4+/CD7– and the CD4+/CD26– TC, analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

Thirteen patients with CTCL were included. After four cycles there was a mean reduction of 57% in CD3+ TC, 72% in the CD4+/CD7– and 75% in the CD4+/CD26– TCP compared to the individual baseline of each patient. The reduction in CD4+/CD7+ and CD4+/CD26+ TC was lower, averaging 54% and 41%. A significant decrease in aberrant TCP was already evident after the first administration. A median plateau of TCP already occurred during the IP. Progressive disease occurred in 5/13 patients without a clear correlation to aberrant TCP.

Conclusions

Already after one dose of mogamulizumab, aberrant TCP and, to a lesser extent, normal TC decrease. We did not observe a clear correlation between TCP and the efficacy of mogamulizumab, but further studies with larger numbers of patients are needed.
“You need to be super smart to do well in math!” Young children's field‐specific ability beliefs
Authors: Jenifer Jalisha B. , Jaxon Jilana , Levine Susan C. , Cimpian Andrei
Published: July 2023

Success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields is often believed to require intellectual talent (“brilliance”). Given that many cultures associate men more than women with brilliance, this belief poses an obstacle to women's STEM pursuits. Here, we investigated the developmental roots of this phenomenon, focusing specifically on young children's beliefs about math (N = 174 U.S. students in Grades 1–4; 93 girls, 81 boys; 52% White, 17% Asian, 13% Hispanic/Latinx). We found that field‐specific ability beliefs (FABs) that associate success in math (vs. reading/writing) with brilliance are already present in early elementary school. We also found that brilliance‐oriented FABs about math are negatively associated with elementary school students’ (and particularly girls’) math motivation—specifically, their math self‐efficacy and interest. The early emergence of brilliance‐oriented FABs about math and the negative relation between FABs and math motivation underscore the need to understand the sources and long‐term effects of these beliefs.

Research Highlights

Field‐specific ability beliefs (FABs) are beliefs about the extent to which intellectual talent (or “brilliance”) is required for success in a particular field or context.

Among adults, brilliance‐oriented FABs are an obstacle to diversity in science and technology, but the childhood antecedents of these beliefs are not well understood.

The present study (N = 174) found that FABs that associate success in math (vs. reading/writing) with brilliance were already present in Grades 1−4.

Brilliance‐oriented FABs about math were negatively associated with elementary school students’ (and particularly girls’) math motivation—specifically, their math self‐efficacy and interest.
Wrongful convictions with Chinese characteristics
Authors: Li Peiyuan , Li Wei
Published: July 2023

This study examines the impact of an imbalanced judiciary on the generation and rectification of wrongful convictions in China. Specifically, we investigate the influence of the Political and Legal Affairs Commissions (PLACs), which are tasked by the Communist Party with controlling judicial authorities. By analyzing 335 cases of wrongful convictions between 1990 and 2010, we have identified a significant relationship between the appointment of PLAC secretaries as chiefs of police and an increase in wrongful convictions. This arrangement disrupts the checks within the judicial system, leading to the prosecution of an additional 251 individuals each year in a given province. Our research reveals that in 81% of the cases examined, the correction of a wrongful conviction occurred after the secretary of the provincial PLAC, who held oversight over the court responsible for the conviction, had left office. Furthermore, even after the responsible PLAC secretaries had been replaced, if the successors were previously their subordinates, the likelihood of reversing wrongful convictions remained low. Our findings provide persuasive evidence in favour of judicial independence.
The theory of critical distances for random vibration fatigue life analysis of notched specimens
Authors: Sun Jiachen , Li Piao , Susmel Luca
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the Theory of Critical Distances (TCD) is reformulated to be employed to estimate random vibration fatigue lifetime of notched components. Using the Point Method argument, the response stress at the critical distance from the notch root is taken as the damage parameter and then used to perform the vibration fatigue life analysis in the presence of geometrical features. First, the finite element simulation is conducted to obtain the response Mises stress power spectrum at the critical distance under the load excitation being investigated. Subsequently, the probability density distribution of the stress amplitude at this position is calculated. Finally, fatigue lifetime is predicted via the parent material S–N curve. In order to check the accuracy of the proposed reformulation of the TCD, a series of random vibration fatigue results were generated by testing notched aluminum alloy specimens under load spectra covering the first‐, second‐, and third‐order natural frequencies. The results from the vibration fatigue tests being performed are seen to be in sound agreement with the predicted lifetimes. This strongly support the idea that the TCD is successful also in predicting random vibration fatigue lifetime of notched components.
Elucidating climatic drivers of photosynthesis by tropical forests
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Junjie , Wennberg Paul O. , He Liyin , Bonal Damien , Köhler Philipp , Frankenberg Christian , Sitch Stephen , Friedlingstein Pierre
Published: July 2023

Tropical forests play a pivotal role in regulating the global carbon cycle. However, the response of these forests to changes in absorbed solar energy and water supply under the changing climate is highly uncertain. Three‐year (2018–2021) spaceborne high‐resolution measurements of solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) from the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) provide a new opportunity to study the response of gross primary production (GPP) and more broadly tropical forest carbon dynamics to differences in climate. SIF has been shown to be a good proxy for GPP on monthly and regional scales. Combining tropical climate reanalysis records and other contemporary satellite products, we find that on the seasonal timescale, the dependence of GPP on climate variables is highly heterogeneous. Following the principal component analyses and correlation comparisons, two regimes are identified: water limited and energy limited. GPP variations over tropical Africa are more correlated with water‐related factors such as vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and soil moisture, while in tropical Southeast Asia, GPP is more correlated with energy‐related factors such as photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and surface temperature. Amazonia is itself heterogeneous: with an energy‐limited regime in the north and water‐limited regime in the south. The correlations of GPP with climate variables are supported by other observation‐based products, such as Orbiting Carbon Observatory‐2 (OCO2) SIF and FluxSat GPP. In each tropical continent, the coupling between SIF and VPD increases with the mean VPD. Even on the interannual timescale, the correlation of GPP with VPD is still discernable, but the sensitivity is smaller than the intra‐annual correlation. By and large, the dynamic global vegetation models in the TRENDY v8 project do not capture the high GPP seasonal sensitivity to VPD in dry tropics. The complex interactions between carbon and water cycles in the tropics illustrated in this study and the poor representation of this coupling in the current suite of vegetation models suggest that projections of future changes in carbon dynamics based on these models may not be robust.
Meta‐analysis reveals impacts of disturbance on reptile and amphibian body condition
Authors: Macdonald Kristina J. , Driscoll Don A. , Macdonald Kimberley J. , Hradsky Bronwyn , Doherty Tim S.
Published: July 2023

Ecosystem disturbance is increasing in extent, severity and frequency across the globe. To date, research has largely focussed on the impacts of disturbance on animal population size, extinction risk and species richness. However, individual responses, such as changes in body condition, can act as more sensitive metrics and may provide early warning signs of reduced fitness and population declines. We conducted the first global systematic review and meta‐analysis investigating the impacts of ecosystem disturbance on reptile and amphibian body condition. We collated 384 effect sizes representing 137 species from 133 studies. We tested how disturbance type, species traits, biome and taxon moderate the impacts of disturbance on body condition. We found an overall negative effect of disturbance on herpetofauna body condition (Hedges' g = −0.37, 95% CI: −0.57, −0.18). Disturbance type was an influential predictor of body condition response and all disturbance types had a negative mean effect. Drought, invasive species and agriculture had the largest effects. The impact of disturbance varied in strength and direction across biomes, with the largest negative effects found within Mediterranean and temperate biomes. In contrast, taxon, body size, habitat specialisation and conservation status were not influential predictors of disturbance effects. Our findings reveal the widespread effects of disturbance on herpetofauna body condition and highlight the potential role of individual‐level response metrics in enhancing wildlife monitoring. The use of individual response metrics alongside population and community metrics would deepen our understanding of disturbance impacts by revealing both early impacts and chronic effects within affected populations. This could enable early and more informed conservation management.
Conversion of carbon dioxide into valencene and other sesquiterpenes with metabolic engineered Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 cell factories
Authors: Sun Jiahui , Xu Xuejing , Wu Yannan , Sun Huili , Luan Guodong , Lu Xuefeng
Published: July 2023

Valencene is a natural sesquiterpene with desirable bioactivity and aroma, making it a valuable ingredient in the food and cosmetics industries. Traditionally, valencene was extracted from the citrus fruits, and its applications were restricted by the low concentrations in natural sources and high costs for extraction. Photosynthetic biomanufacturing represents a promising route for efficient and stable production of valencene, while cyanobacteria have been considered one of the most promising platforms regarding biotechnological routes for the direct conversion of CO2. In this work, we engineered Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 to synthesize valencene. By introducing a heterologous valencene synthase and modifying the native MEP pathway, we obtained an efficient cyanobacterial cell factory that produced 154 mg/L valencene during a semi‐continual cultivation, with an average productivity of 4.3 mg/L/day, and the cell factory exhibited robust growth and production in non‐sterilized conditions. We also achieved the production of other sesquiterpenes including bisabolene, amorpha‐4,11‐diene, farnesene, and nerolidol by engineered cyanobacteria with enhanced MEP pathway flux, showing promising potentials as a universal chassis.
Generational Distribution of Fiscal Burdens: A Positive Analysis
Authors: Uchida Yuki , Ono Tetsuo
Published: July 2023

This study presents an overlapping generations model to analyze the impact of population aging on fiscal policy and intergenerational fiscal burden. Aging populations incentivize governments to increase capital and labor income tax rates and the public debt‐to‐GDP ratio, consistent with OECD evidence. Our model‐based simulation for Japan and the United States (2000–2070) reveals that Japan will experience higher labor income tax rates, a greater public debt‐to‐GDP ratio, and a lower government expenditure‐to‐GDP ratio compared to the United States. From 2040 onward, Japan is predicted to surpass the United States in terms of the capital tax rate.
Digital health at Central Lisbon University Hospital Center: strategic reflections and value proposition
Authors: Varela Maria R. V. , Ferreira Fernando A. F. , Ferreira Neuza C. M. Q. F. , Correia Ricardo J. C.
Published: July 2023

Digital health emerges in the context of technological advancement, responding to the challenges of healthcare systems based on safe, quality healthcare services, offered in a timely manner, and in an efficient and effective way. However, digital health also brings challenges that are essentially related to change management within organizations. Based on problem structuring methods, this study sought to investigate the digital health topic in the specific case of Central Lisbon University Hospital Center (CHULC in Portuguese), aiming to reflect on initiatives that enhance digital health benefits within this organization and that contribute to its digital transformation. For this purpose, interpretive structural modeling was used to identify and understand the cause–effect relationships between determinants of digital health in this context, involving CHULC in the strategic reflection on the subject through a collaborative and constructivist approach. The main results include a set of actions formalized to enhance the center's digital health value proposition.
Cost reduction collaboration between firm and social planner: An economic analysis
Authors: Arora Stuti , Jain Tarun , Kiran K
Published: July 2023

Recently, firms like Toyota and social planners like the Government of India have invested in various initiatives leading to the firm's cost reduction. Further, such cost reduction collaborations also benefit the social planner because of higher industry output, and therefore, higher employment opportunities. In this paper, we investigate different scenarios in which the firm, or the social planner, or both exert efforts to reduce the firm's manufacturing cost. Interestingly, we find that under certain conditions, the firm may exert lower effort than the social planner. Our analysis reveals that when both players' cost reduction effectiveness is low, then collaboration results in higher payoffs for both the players. However, when the effectiveness of any player is high, then both players are better off if only one of them exerts effort. Our study further reveals that collaboration between the social planner and the firm always leads to a win–win situation.
The role of advertising in the choice between reselling and agency selling
Authors: Sigue Simon , Gromova Ekaterina
Published: July 2023

This article investigates the condition under which a manufacturer and a retailer in a two‐member channel should adopt reselling or agency selling. Three game‐theoretic models in which price and advertising decisions affect consumer demand are analyzed. Contrary to common belief about agency selling, we demonstrate that when manufacturer advertising greatly influences demand, reselling is the only feasible business model. Agency selling should be considered only when manufacturer advertising slightly impacts demand. Consequently, the manufacturer and retailer may prefer any of the three models and their preferences may differ. Agency selling can drive up retail prices and hurt channel members' profits.
Apparent effect of range size and fruit colour on palm diversification may be spurious
Authors: Hill Adrian , Jiménez Maria Fernanda Torres , Chazot Nicolas , Cássia‐Silva Cibele , Faurby Søren , Herrera‐Alsina Leonel , Bacon Christine D.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Fruit selection by animal dispersers with different mobility directly impacts plant geographical range size, which, in turn, may impact plant diversification. Here, we examine the interaction between fruit colour, range size and diversification rate in palms by testing two hypotheses: (1) species with fruit colours attractive to birds have larger range sizes due to high dispersal ability and (2) disperser mobility affects whether small or large range size has higher diversification, and intermediate range size is expected to lead to the highest diversification rate regardless of disperser.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Arecaceae (palms).

Methods

Palm species were grouped based on likely animal disperser group for given fruit colours. Range sizes were estimated by constructing alpha convex hull polygons from distribution data. We examined disperser group, range size or an interaction of both as possible drivers of change in diversification rate over time in a likelihood dynamic model (Several Examined State‐dependent Speciation and Extinction [SecSSE]). Models were fitted, rate estimates were retrieved and likelihoods were compared to those of appropriate null models.

Results

Species with fruit colours associated with mammal dispersal had larger ranges than those with colours associated with bird dispersal. The best fitting SecSSE models indicated that the examined traits were not the primary driver of the heterogeneity in diversification rates in the model. Extinction rate complexity had a marked impact on model performance and on diversification rates.

Main Conclusions

Two traits related to dispersal mobility, range size and fruit colour, were not identified as the main drivers of diversification in palms. Increased model extinction rate complexity led to better performing models, which indicates that net diversification should be estimated rather than speciation alone. However, increased complexity may lead to incorrect SecSSE model conclusions without careful consideration. Finally, we find palms with more mobile dispersers do not have larger range sizes, meaning other factors are more important determinants of range size.
A negative feedback loop between KLF9 and the EMT program dictates metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Tao , Feng Limin , Shi Zhong , Yang Lixian , Yu Xiaofu , Wu Jinsong , Sun Jirui , Zhang Jinku , Feng Yuxiong , Wang Weilin
Published: July 2023

Metastasis is the primary cause of death of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while the mechanism underlying this severe disease remains largely unclear. The Kruppel‐like factor (KLF) family is one of the largest transcription factor families that control multiple physiologic and pathologic processes by governing the cellular transcriptome. To identify metastatic regulators of HCC, we conducted gene expression profiling on the MHCC97 cell series, a set of subclones of the original MHCC97 that was established by in vivo metastasis selection therefore harbouring differential metastatic capacities. We found that the expression of KLF9, a member of the KLF family, was dramatically repressed in the metastatic progeny clone of the MHCC97 cells. Functional studies revealed overexpression of KLF9 suppressed HCC migration in vitro and metastasis in vivo, while knockdown of KLF9 was sufficient to promote cell migration and metastasis accordingly. Mechanistically, we found the expression of KLF9 can reverse the pro‐metastatic epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) program via direct binding to the promoter regions of essential mesenchymal genes, thus repressing their expression. Interestingly, we further revealed that KLF9 was, in turn, directly suppressed by a mesenchymal transcription factor Slug, suggesting an intriguing negative feedback loop between KLF9 and the EMT program. Using clinical samples, we found that KLF9 was not only downregulated in HCC tissue compared to its normal counterparts but also further reduced in the HCC samples of whom had developed metastatic lesions. Together, we established a critical transcription factor that represses HCC metastasis, which is clinically and mechanically significant in HCC therapies.
Mixed Oligopoly and Market Power Mitigation: Evidence from the Colombian Wholesale Electricity Market*
Authors: Suarez Carlos
Published: July 2023

Using information on price bids in wholesale electricity pools and empirical techniques described in the literature on electricity markets, this study identifies the market power mitigation effect of public firms in the Colombian market. The results suggest that while private firms exercise less market power than is predicted by a profit‐maximization model, there are marked differences between private and public firms in their exercise of unilateral market power. These findings support the hypothesis of the market power mitigation effect of public firms.
Rearing performance of juvenile yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus, in a sea water recirculation system at two different stocking densities
Authors: Beltrán Alberto , Vela Magaña Miguel A. , Dumas Silvie , Peñalosa Martinell Daniel
Published: July 2023

Evaluation of viability of new marine species in aquaculture systems is important to reduce negative social and environmental externalities, offering sustainable options for supply to fish markets. The objective was to describe the performance indicators of late juvenile yellowtail snapper (243.2 ± 57.1 mean weight of total fish) in an experimental recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) system supplied by seawater to determine its pre‐feasibility. Two densities were stocked, D1: 10 fish/tank (2.6 kg/m3, mean weight 258.3 ± 57 g) and D2: 20 fish/tank (4.7 kg/m3, mean weight 235.6 ± 55.9 g). Fish were fed to satiety with an extruded diet containing 46% crude protein and 12% crude lipid. After 238 days, survival rate was 93% for both densities, and mean weight and biomass were 534.5 ± 19.4 g and 5.7 kg/m3 for D1, and 606.9 ± 34.5 g and 10 kg/m3 for D2. Final feed conversion rate (3.13 for D1 and 3.03 for D2) did not differ significantly between densities. The exponents (b) of the length–weight relationship calculated for D1 (3.15) versus D2 (3.10) and condition factor (2.12 ± 0.07 for D1, and 2.03 ± 0.04 for D2) demonstrated a higher condition factor than those of their wild counterparts. This study is one of the few reports on this species’ performance in late juvenile stage in RAS.
Xylem structure and hydraulic function in roots and stems of chaparral shrub species from high and low elevation in the Sierra Nevada, California
Authors: Fickle Jaycie C. , Pratt R. Brandon , Jacobsen Anna L.
Published: July 2023

Xylem structure and hydraulics were compared between individuals at lower and upper elevation distribution limits for five chaparral shrub species along a steep transect in the southern Sierra Nevada, California, USA. Higher‐elevation plants experienced frequent winter freeze–thaw events and increased precipitation. We hypothesized that environmental differences would lead to xylem trait differences between high and low elevations, but predictions were complicated because both water stress (low elevation) and freeze–thaw events (high elevation) may select for similar traits, such as narrow vessel diameter. We found significant changes in the ratio of stem xylem area to leaf area (Huber value) between elevations, with more xylem area required to support leaves at low elevations. Co‐occurring species significantly differed in their xylem traits, suggesting diverse strategies to cope with the highly seasonal environment of this Mediterranean‐type climate region. Roots were more hydraulically efficient and more vulnerable to embolism relative to stems, potentially due to roots being buffered from freeze–thaw stress, which allows them to maintain wider diameter vessels. Knowledge of the structure and function of both roots and stems is likely important in understanding whole‐plant response to environmental gradients.
Recent advances in studying brain‐behavior interactions using functional imaging: The primary startle response pathway and its affective modulation in humans
Authors: Wendt Julia , Kuhn Manuel , Hamm Alfons O. , Lonsdorf Tina B.
Published: July 2023

The startle response is a cross‐species defensive reflex that is considered a key tool for cross‐species translational emotion research. While the neural pathway mediating (affective) startle modulation has been extensively studied in rodents, human work on brain‐behavior interactions has lagged in the past due to technical challenges, which have only recently been overcome through non‐invasive simultaneous EMG‐fMRI assessments. We illustrate key paradigms and methodological tools for startle response assessment in rodents and humans and review evidence for primary and modulatory neural circuits underlying startle responses and their affective modulation in humans. Based on this, we suggest a refined and integrative model for primary and modulatory startle response pathways in humans concluding that there is strong evidence from human work on the neurobiological pathway underlying the primary startle response while evidence for the modulatory pathway is still sparse. In addition, we provide methodological considerations to guide future work and provide an outlook on new and exciting perspectives enabled through technical and theoretical advances outlined in this work.
Elevated blood lactate in COPD exacerbations associates with adverse clinical outcomes and signals excessive treatment with β2‐agonists
Authors: MacDonald Martin I. , Polkinghorne Kevan R , MacDonald Chris J. , Leong Paul , Hamza Kais , Kathriachchige Gayan , Osadnik Christian Robert , King Paul T. , Bardin Philip G.
Published: July 2023

Background and Objective

Raised blood lactate secondary to high dose β2‐agonist treatment has been reported in asthma exacerbations but has not been investigated during acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD). We explored associations of blood lactate measurements with disease outcomes and β2‐agonist treatments during AECOPD.

Methods

Retrospective (n = 199) and prospective studies (n = 142) of patients hospitalized with AECOPD were conducted. The retrospective cohort was identified via medical records and the prospective cohort was recruited during hospitalization for AECOPD. Baseline demographics, comorbidities, β2‐agonist treatment, biochemical measurements and clinical outcomes were compared between patients with normal (≤2.0 mmol/L) versus elevated lactate (>2.0 mmol/L). Regression analyses examined associations of lactate measurements with β2‐agonist dosages.

Results

Demographic data and comorbidities were similar between high versus normal lactate groups in both cohorts. The populations were elderly (mean >70 years), predominantly male (>60%) with reduced FEV1 (%) 48.2 ± 19 (prospective cohort). Lactate was elevated in approximately 50% of patients during AECOPD and not related to evidence of sepsis. In the prospective cohort, patients with high lactate had more tachypnoea, tachycardia, acidosis and hyperglycaemia (p < 0.05) and received more non‐invasive ventilation (37% vs. 9.7%, p < 0.001, prospective cohort). There was a trend to longer hospitalization (6 vs. 5 days, p = 0.06, prospective cohort). Higher cumulative β2‐agonist dosages were linked to elevated lactate levels (OR 1.04, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Elevated lactate during AECOPD was common, unrelated to sepsis and correlated with high cumulative doses of β2‐agonists. Raised lactate may indicate excessive β2‐agonist treatment and should now be investigated as a possible biomarker.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*02:09:01:04 allele in a Greek individual
Authors: Kouniaki Diamanto , Athanassiades Theofilos , Tarassi Katerina , Fotopoulos Konstantinos , Tsirogianni Alexandra
Published: July 2023

Characterization of the novel HLA‐A*02:09:01:04 allele in a 36‐year‐old Greek female.
The patient voice: More than a tick box exercise?
Authors: Jenkins Hannah Elizabeth , Boddy Kate , Bull Stephanie Anne
Published: July 2023

Background

Patient and public involvement (PPI) in healthcare professional education is important, yet publications often provide insufficient detail about the types of involvement patients undertake and the level of autonomy that they have. This study details the factors that promote or hinder PPI within a university healthcare professional education setting and the types of activities members conducted.

Methods

PPI activities were described and mapped against a framework for PPI in healthcare professional education. Semi‐structured interviews with PPI group members explored the motivators, enablers and barriers that influence involvement.

Findings

The framework highlighted that the PPI group were involved in a range of activities, yet they received limited training for their role and were infrequently involved in planning the activities. When interviewed, PPI members did not consider that these factors were the important promoters or barriers to involvement, instead emphasising five themes: (1) their individual characteristics, (2) factors relating to the university organisation, (3) relationships between themselves, faculty and students, (4) time in their role and (5) evidence of their impact.

Discussion and conclusion

Supporting PPI members whilst working, rather than provision of formal training was considered most empowering for group members. This was mediated through having enough time in their role to develop supportive relationships with faculty, which in turn promoted self‐confidence and increased autonomy. This should be considered when making PPI appointments. Small changes in processes during education planning can make it easier for PPI members to bring their own agenda forward and promote equity during education decision making.
Canvas LMS Course Design: Create and Deliver Interactive Online Course on the Canvas Learning Management System : A Book Review
Authors: Md Zin Zamrin
Published: July 2023

As online education continues to grow in popularity, instructors are increasingly seeking ways to design effective and engaging online courses. "Canvas LMS Course Design: Create and deliver interactive online courses on the Canvas learning management system, 2nd Edition" by Ryan John is a comprehensive guide to designing online courses using the Canvas learning management system (LMS). The book is an excellent resource for instructors at all levels of experience, providing practical advice and examples to help them design engaging and effective courses that meet the needs of their students. The book focuses on the practical aspects of course design. John provides clear and concise guidance on topics such as multimedia integration, assessment strategies, and student engagement, and provides numerous examples and case studies to illustrate these concepts in action.
Knowledge Requirement of Incorporating Artificial Intelligence in Engineering Education through TPACK
Authors: Ghazali Nurzal Effiyana , Abdul Rahman Nor Farahwahidah
Published: July 2023

It is believed that Malaysians have no interest in the field of engineering education. Engineering curriculum development and educator development are neglected. As a result, most of engineering educators deliver the contents lack or without pedagogical knowledge. It becomes worst when they incorporate artificial intelligent applications in their classrooms without pedagogical knowledge. Therefore, this work is to create awareness among engineering educators about the knowledge that they need before using artificial intelligence in their classroom. The first author describes her experienced incorporating technology/artificial intelligence in engineering education. She discussed initial knowledge that engineering educators need before they are capable to teach a subject using artificial intelligence based on Technological, Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework. However, this knowledge alone may not be translated into quality teaching. Therefore, the first author discussed Community of Inquiry (CoI) and she believes that CoI is a venue for engineering educators to simulate the knowledge. As a conclusion, TPACK can be modelled as engineering educators’ professional knowledge and CoI as assessment method.
The Making of Green Engineers: Sustainable Development and the Hybrid Imagination (Synthesis Lectures on Engineering): A Book Review
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamad Syahrul Nizam
Published: July 2023

“Green engineer” is a connotation that needs to be worked so that the public is more aware that engineers nowadays are humanistic in implementing any related projects and it in line with the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. The Making of Green Engineers: Sustainable Development and the Hybrid Imagination (Synthesis Lectures on Engineering) emphasizes the intersection of sustainable development and engineering education, focusing on the formation of "green engineers." It delves into the role of imagination, creativity, and interdisciplinary thinking in preparing engineers to address environmental and sustainability challenges. The book also examines how engineering education can foster a hybrid imagination, combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of social, environmental, and ethical dimensions. It explores pedagogical approaches, curriculum design, and educational practices that nurture sustainability-oriented mindsets among engineering students. The book emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, systems thinking, and a holistic approach to engineering education. It offers insights into the integration of sustainability principles into engineering curricula and the development of green engineering professionals who can contribute to a more sustainable future. The book is highly recommended as a resource for engineers, students, researchers, or professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of sustainable development and the role of green engineering within it.
Aspects of the screw function corresponding to the Riemann zeta‐function
Authors: Suzuki Masatoshi
Published: July 2023

We introduce a screw function corresponding to the Riemann zeta‐function and study its properties from various aspects. Typical results are several equivalent conditions for the Riemann hypothesis in terms of the screw function. One of them can be considered an analog of so‐called Weil's positivity or Li's criterion. In addition, we prove a few partial but unconditional results for such equivalents.
Patient, hospital and environmental costs of unnecessary bloodwork: capturing the triple bottom line of inappropriate care in general surgery patients
Authors: Spoyalo Karina , Lalande Annie , Rizan Chantelle , Park Sophia , Simons Janet , Dawe Philip , Brown Carl J , Lillywhite Robert , MacNeill Andrea J
Published: July 2023

Objective

To characterise the extent of unnecessary care in general surgery inpatients using a triple bottom line approach.

Design

Patients with uncomplicated acute surgical conditions were retrospectively evaluated for unnecessary bloodwork according to the triple bottom line, quantifying the impacts on patients, healthcare costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon footprint of common laboratory investigations was estimated using PAS2050 methodology, including emissions generated from the production, transport, processing and disposal of consumable goods and reagents.

Setting

Single-centre tertiary care hospital.

Participants

Patients admitted with acute uncomplicated appendicitis, cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, gallstone pancreatitis and adhesive small bowel obstruction were included in the study. 304 patients met inclusion criteria and 83 were randomly selected for in-depth chart review.

Main outcome measures

In each patient population, the extent of over-investigation was determined by comparing ordered laboratory investigations against previously developed consensus recommendations. The quantity of unnecessary bloodwork was measured by number of phlebotomies, tests and blood volume in addition to healthcare costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Results

76% (63/83) of evaluated patients underwent unnecessary bloodwork resulting in a mean of 1.84 phlebotomies, 4.4 blood vials, 16.5 tests and 18 mL of blood loss per patient. The hospital and environmental cost of these unnecessary activities was $C5235 and 61 kg CO2e (974 g CO2e per person), respectively. The carbon footprint of a common set of investigations (complete blood count, differential, creatinine, urea, sodium, potassium) was 332 g CO2e. Adding a liver panel (liver enzymes, bilirubin, albumin, international normalised ratio/partial thromboplastin time) resulted in an additional 462 g CO2e.

Conclusions

We found considerable overuse of laboratory investigations among general surgery patients admitted with uncomplicated acute surgical conditions resulting in unnecessary burden to patients, hospitals and the environment. This study identifies an opportunity for resource stewardship and exemplifies a comprehensive approach to quality improvement.
Global clinicoepidemiological pattern of childhood vitiligo: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Farajzadeh Saeedeh , Khalili Maryam , Mirmohammadkhani Majid , Paknazar Fatemeh , Rastegarnasab Fereshte , Abtahi-Naeini Bahareh
Published: July 2023

Background

Childhood vitiligo differs from adult vitiligo in many aspects. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is no systematic review of different clinicoepidemiological patterns of vitiligo in children. This study aimed to review the characteristics of vitiligo among the paediatric population.

Methods

In June 2022, a comprehensive search was conducted using MeSh-based keywords on online databases including PubMed, Scopus and Web of Sciences. The papers were assessed, and the eligible articles were selected. The selection of articles followed three distinct steps. The extracted clinicoepidemiological data were then imported into the STATA software for meta-analysis.

Results

The meta-analysis of 17 studies with 4365 subjects yielded 2475 women (estimated=56.8%, 95% CI 54.45 to 59.22). The female-to-male ratio was determined to be 1.3:1. Meta-regression demonstrated a significant relationship between continents and gender (p=0.03). The most prevalent types of non-segmental vitiligo were vulgaris (42.49%), focal (27.21%) and acrofacial (17.8%). The pooled ratio of non-segmental to segmental was 4.6:1. The highest and lowest ratios were found in Africa with one study (estimated=11.56%, 95% CI −0.98 to 24.10) and America with two studies (estimated=3.02%, 95% CI 1.54 to 4.50), respectively. Using meta-regression, the relationship between continents and vitiligo type was found to be insignificant (p=0.47). Positive family history was recorded in 657 patients (estimated = 16.88%, 95% CI 13.37 to 20.39). Positive family history varied by country of study from 13.91% (Asia with 11 studies) to 27.01% (Europe with two studies) (p=0.11). Kobner phenomena and leukotrichia were noted in 687 (25.47%) and 461 (18.52%) patients, respectively.

Conclusion

The review indicated that childhood vitiligo is more prevalent in women. Non-segmental forms of childhood vitiligo were the most common, including vulgaris, focal and acrofacial. The clinicoepidemiological pattern of childhood vitiligo is variable in diﬀerent geographic areas.
The future of fish age estimation: deep machine learning coupled with Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy of otoliths
Authors: Benson Irina M. , Helser Thomas E. , Marchetti Giovanni , Barnett Beverly K.
Published: July 2023

Our novel approach for fish age prediction uses quantitative analysis of Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectra of otoliths by means of multimodal convolutional neural networks (MMCNN). We integrate two key data modalities that are related to fish ages: the entire range of wavenumbers of FT-NIR spectra and corresponding biological and geospatial data for nearly 9000 walleye pollock ( Gadus chalcogrammus) specimens. The proposed model extracts informative spectral features automatically and elucidates hidden structural relationships associated with fish growth to improve age predictions. Absorbance associated with 7000 to 4000 cm−1 wavenumbers had the highest influence on model predictions followed by fish length, latitude, depth, and temperature. The optimal model resulted in good overall performance with an R2 of 0.93 and RMSE of 0.83 for training data set and R2 of 0.92 and RMSE of 0.91 for test data set. MMCNN's age predictions were comparable to microscope-based ages yielding as good or slightly better precision. Moreover, the model outperformed classical partial least squares analysis of otolith spectra and remedied prediction bias at older ages of fish.
Thermal stability of black hole in bumblebee gravity with cosmological constant
Authors: Ditta Allah , Xia Tiecheng , Ali Riasat , Mahmood Asif
Published: July 2023

This paper delves into the intriguing topic of the thermal stability of black holes (BHs) in the unique framework of bumblebee gravity. Our analysis primarily focuses on thermodynamic stability by examining the event horizon, black hole mass, thermal temperature and heat capacity. Additionally, we explore the intricacies of thermodynamic geometries such as Ruppeiner and Weinhold formulations and calculate their respective scalar curvatures in the context of bumblebee gravity. In our investigation, we also delve into the concept of phase transition through Gibbs free energy and the fascinating phenomenon of BH evaporation by energy emission. This research provides valuable insights into the complex thermodynamic properties of BHs and enhances our understanding of bumblebee gravity. We study the bosonic tunneling with spin-1 tunneling radiation in BHs. Initially, the generalized uncertainty principle (GUP) was used to correct the field equation (FE) for vector particles with spin-1 and demonstrate that the Hawking temperature rises with an improvement in the GUP and the radial component of the vector field but is unaffected by the radial components.
Performance Optimization of Feature Extraction for Palm and Wrist in Multimodal Biometrics: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Deepika Kumari , Punj Deepika , Verma Jyoti , Pillai Anuradha
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a systematic literature review on optimizing feature extraction for palm and wrist multimodal biometrics. Identifying informative features across different modalities can be computationally expensive and time-consuming in such complex systems. Optimization techniques can streamline this process, making it more efficient thereby improving accuracy and reliability. The paper frames four research questions on input traits, approaches for feature extraction, classification approaches, and performance metrics of image data. The search query is generated based on the research questions that help retrieve the information on the above parameters. The focus of this paper is to provide the comprehensive and exhaustive gestalt of the appropriate input traits for image data from the information retrieved as well as optimal feature extraction and selection. However, the paper also intends to highlight the various classification approaches taken as well as the performance indicators against those classifiers. Further, the paper aims to analyze the effectiveness of various filtering techniques in eliminating image noise and improving overall system performance using MATLAB 2018. The paper concludes that a combination of palm and wrist biometrics could be a good input-trait combination. This work is novel as it covers multi-faceted processing, addressing various aspects of optimizing feature extraction and selection for palm and wrist multimodal biometrics.
Ant Colony Optimization with Levy-Based Unequal Clustering and Routing (ACO-UCR) Technique for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Anil Kumar N. , Sukhi Y. , Preetha M. , Sivakumar K.
Published: July 2023

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) became a novel technology for ubiquitous livelihood and still remains a hot research topic because of its applicability in diverse domains. Energy efficiency treated as a crucial factor lies in the designing of WSN. Clustering is commonly applied to increase the energy efficiency and reduce the energy utilization. The proper choice of cluster heads (CHs) and cluster sizes is important in a cluster-based WSN. The CHs which are placed closer to base station (BS) are affected by the hot spot issue and it exhausts its energy faster than the usual way. For addressing this issue, a new unequal clustering and routing technique using ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm is presented. Initially, CHs are chosen and clusters are constructed based on several variables. Next, the ACO algorithm with levy distribution is applied for the selection of optimal paths between two nodes in the network. A comprehensive validation set takes place under diverse situations under the position of BS. The experimental outcome verified the superiority of the presented model under several validation parameters.
A STUDY ON THE MICROSTRUCTURE, WEAR, AND INDENTATION TOUGHNESS OF ANODIZED ALUMINUM OXIDE LAYER MODIFIED WITH A NEW ADDITIVE
Authors: HASANPOUR JALAL , AZADI MAHBOOBEH , MOHRI MARYAM
Published: July 2023

In this study, lemon juice at different concentrations as a new additive was poured into the bath of the anodizing process to enhance the mechanical properties of the manufactured aluminum oxide layers. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field-emission scanning electron microscopy were utilized to detect formed phases and microstructure, respectively. To investigate mechanical properties, microhardness, indentation toughness, and wear tests of various aluminum oxide layers were performed. The XRD patterns showed a crystalline phase of [Formula: see text]-Al2O3for all oxide layers. The microhardness of modified layers increased up to 62.2% compared to the unmodified layer. However, by increasing the additive concentration to 2.5 vol%, the hardness decreased. This was based on increasing the pore size of layers. The lowest friction coefficient with a value of 0.53, the lowest wear rate, and the highest indentation toughness was also related to the modified aluminum oxide layer when the concentration of the additive in the bath was 0.3 vol%. For this modified layer, the value of COF/[Formula: see text] was the lowest, and the pore size of 50 nm was the lowest among the layers.
Impact of the Porosity and Elastic Foundation on Frequency and Buckling Response of Bidirectional Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Porous Plate
Authors: Harsha Aditya , Kumar Pawan
Published: July 2023

This work presents a thermoelectric vibration and buckling behavior of a bidirectional functionally graded piezoelectric porous (BD-FGPP) plate resting on the elastic foundation with arbitrary boundary conditions. The variation of the material properties in the FGPP plate is bidirectional, i.e. along longitudinal and thickness directions, using the modified power law distributions. Also, the BD-FGPP plate carries various porosity distributions, i.e. even, uneven and symmetric center types. The governing equation of the FGPP plate has been obtained through Hamilton’s principle and solved through a higher-order finite element approach. The correctness and usefulness of the current technique are confirmed and compared with existing model outcomes available in the literature. A comprehensive parametric study has investigated the effect of the elastic foundations, porous exponent with various porosity distributions, bidirectional material exponent, temperature change, electrical loading and boundary conditions. The attained results are more valuable for designing functionally graded piezoelectric-based smart structures by considering the porosity distribution in a thermoelectric environment.