American College of Physician Executives

Known parasitoids of ants include species from several families of flies, wasps, strepsipterans, nematodes, and mites. Curiously, while myrmecophily is heavily biased towards Coleoptera, one of the most diverse and speciose insect orders, no beetles specialized as parasitoids of ants have been recorded, although the parasitoid habit has evolved at least 13 times within this order. Here we report on observations that strongly suggest that a checkered beetle species behaves as a parasitoid of ant brood. A total of 146 colonies or part of colonies of three species of the Ectatomma ruidum species complex (E. ruidum sp. 2, 3, 4) were excavated in several sites along the Pacific coastal plains of Oaxaca, Mexico, during three collecting campaigns (2015-2017). Overall, 11060 adults, 5795 cocoons and 2185 larvae were examined. Upon dissection, four intact, ethanol-preserved cocoons contained ant prepupae/pupae parasitized by characteristic campodeiform beetle larvae (prognathous head, three pairs of segmented legs, no prolegs, body with sparse but long pubescence), and a fifth cocoon presented a round exit hole. Sequencing of the COI gene fragment support assignment of the larva to Cleridae, consistent with the genus Phyllobaenus (Cleridae). An active, pink-colored larva that emerged from a cocoon containing the remains of the ant host pupa, was reared to adulthood and could be identified as Phyllobaenus obscurus (Gorham). Beetle larvae were found inside intact cocoons of two species: E. ruidum sp. 3 and sp. 4. The prevalence of parasitism is extremely low, representing less than 0.6% of available cocoons. Predatory during both adult and larval stages, checkered beetles are broadly known as predators of wood-boring and cone-boring beetles, and some species are facultative parasitoids of solitary bees or wasps or, very rarely, specialized in predating social insects. We assert that the novel discovery of clerid-ant brood parasitoidism within the subterranean host colony deviates yet further from any adaptation known to date among clerids.

We present a spectral construction of a Hermitian operator whose spectrum coincides exactly with the imaginary parts of the nontrivial zeros of the Riemann zeta function The operator, denoted H∞, is defined on a discrete geometric space modeled by a 20-vertex dodecahedral graph, incorporating a discrete Laplacian, an entropy-based coherence potential, and a prime-indexed infinite-order algebraic term derived from Infinity Algebra. We show that H∞ is self-adjoint, spectrally complete, and compatible with the analytic continuation and functional symmetry of ζ(s). A spectral determinant constructed from its eigenvalues matches the Hadamard product representation of ζ 1 + it , and no extraneous roots appear off the critical line. Numerical approximations from a truncated version of the operator validate this correspondence. The construction yields a functional-analytic framework that supports a spectral- theoretic resolution of the Riemann Hypothesis

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo examine the motivations of veterinary technician specialists (VTSs) in pursuing advanced credentials, the impact of having their VTS credential(s), and their views surrounding the potential barriers to optimal utilization of VTS skill and knowledge.DesignElectronic survey distributed via veterinary organizations, associations, and social media from December 2023 through May 2024.ParticipantsA total of 577 veterinary technician and nurse specialists.Setting and InterventionsOnline survey.Measurement and Main ResultsA total of 577 participants completed the survey. Factor analysis identified four items associated with reasons to become credentialed as a VTS (in descending order of importance): expanded responsibilities, personal growth, recognition/respect, and external influences. Five elements of potential change after earning the VTS credential were also identified (in descending order of prevalence): personal growth, professional recognition/respect, expanded responsibilities, elevated role, and career growth. A total of 76.4% of participants indicated that they had received a pay increase after obtaining the VTS credential; 77.4% reported the increase was ≤10%. A total of 84.2% of participants stated feeling that VTSs are underutilized in the workplace.ConclusionsThe prime motivator for participants to earn the VTS credential was to expand their role and responsibilities; however, many did not experience significant changes in responsibility or scope of clinical practice after receiving their credentials. Most participants felt that VTSs are underutilized, with a lack of role clarity and differentiation from non‐VTS colleagues identified as the largest barrier. There is a clear need for better role clarification and an opportunity for education of both veterinary professionals and clients regarding the role, education, and training of VTSs. Although the majority of VTSs recommend the credential to others, it is unclear whether completion of the VTS leads to a commensurate expansion of responsibilities and improvement in compensation that increase the engagement, retention, and career satisfaction of these technicians/nurses.

O presente projeto de extensão vai ao encontro das demandas vividas pelas instituições educacionais que mediante conquistas na legislação vigente, pressupõe o acesso, permanência e sucesso escolar dos alunos da Educação Especial. Nosso objetivo é fomentar a formação para a Educação Especial na perspectiva da Educação Inclusiva, por meio de plataforma digital, potencializando discussões e ações que promovam a inclusão destes estudantes na escola regular. Como procedimentos metodológicos utiliza-se a oferta de minicursos, oficinas, palestras, rodas de conversa, compartilhamento de informações e materiais, podcast, além de apoio individual online, via plataforma digital. Infere-se, considerando a análise dos formulários de avaliação aplicados, estar atingindo os objetivos propostos. Pode-se afirmar que não se trata simplesmente de um projeto institucionalizado como ação de extensão de natureza pedagógica, mas, sim, e, principalmente, uma ação de política pública que ultrapassa a formação e qualificação, pois resgata a credibilidade no ser humano e a valorização da diferença, cujo lócus é a inclusão e a humanização. Representa, assim, um caminho dereafirmação em torno de umauma educação democrática e na garantia dos direitos.

FigureWith presidential campaigns in full swing, it's safe to say the future of healthcare will take up a fair share of the national conversation for the next several months, with topics such as Medicaid expansion, reproductive health, and persistent healthcare workforce challenges at the forefront. As patient advocates, physician associates/assistants (PAs) have an obligation to engage in the national conversation, but we also have a duty to ensure that progress on PA-led policy continues at the state level. Discourse during a presidential election year has a way of sucking up all the oxygen, but in states across the country, active legislation remains before many legislatures. Although perhaps not as headline-grabbing as many of the pressing national priorities, the changes PAs are seeking to state laws would have a significant effect on how healthcare is delivered in communities throughout our country. For example, in 2024, our profession is well positioned to make significant headway on the PA Licensure Compact. By the close of 2023, three states—Utah, Delaware, and Wisconsin—had enacted the PA Compact, and legislation had been introduced in Maine, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Vermont, and Washington state. This progress demonstrates the power of partnerships, as collaboration with the Federation of State Medical Boards and the Council of State Governments was key to this strong start. The PA Licensure Compact, like other PA practice law modernizations, is a long overdue and commonsense way to make healthcare delivery in our country more efficient. After the compact is operational, licensed PAs will be able to make a single application for privileges to practice (in person or via telemedicine) in any state that has joined the compact, without the need to apply for licensure in each state. This would significantly reduce administrative burdens and may reduce licensing fees for PAs. However, most importantly, it would reduce delays in providing patient care and increase patient access. After seven states have adopted the compact model legislation, the compact will be activated and will begin the process to become operational. Historically, this process has taken 18 to 24 months after activation for other professions. The PA Compact is completely optional—PAs may use the compact to obtain privileges to practice in all states in which they wish to practice, or they may continue to obtain single-state licenses. Furthermore, the PA Compact will not change scope of practice—PAs using the compact must still abide by the state laws and regulations in the states in which they practice. The PA Compact also would establish a multistate data system that will enhance public protection by facilitating the sharing of licensure and disciplinary information across compact member states. Increased licensure portability is an urgent need for PAs who travel or relocate regularly, including military spouses. With an active interstate PA compact, a practicing PA can maintain licensure and avoid licensing-related downtime between jobs, as long as relevant states are members of the compact. For more information on the PA Compact, including updates on where your state is in the process, visit pacompact.org. I urge PAs who are not involved in advocacy to reach out to your state chapters. Breaking through the noise of an election year requires a loud, united PA voice. Every email, call, or meeting can make a difference.

Abstract This chapter discusses the challenges and opportunities that exist in the realm of management and business education. The author provides an in-depth analysis of the history and development of management education, highlighting the changes and evolution that have occurred over time. Furthermore, the author discusses the dominant paradigm that has shaped management education and the issues that have arisen as a result. Specifically, the author identifies the problems that have contributed to financial crises and business failures, demonstrating the inadequacies of the current approach. Finally, the author argues for the need to revolutionize the current management education system. This involves a significant departure from the traditional methods of teaching and learning, and instead emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a rapidly changing business landscape. This chapter challenges the current state of management education and offers a compelling call to action for reform. By addressing the issues that have plagued the field and proposing innovative solutions, the author aims to pave the way for a more responsible management education system.

Abstract In this chapter, the author explains the three components of Trilogy of Taoist Leadership – responsible business, responsible management and responsible leadership. The concepts of business, management and leadership are defined from multiple angles, including an etymological perspective. The historical origins and evolution of these three areas are explored to provide a comprehensive understanding. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the interconnections among the trilogy's components and illustrates how the trilogy can contribute to the development of sustainable organizations.

Abstract This chapter examines the influence of Taoism's wisdom on the realization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This chapter emphasizes the critical connection between Taoism's wisdom and the SDGs, which is rooted in the principle of living in harmony with nature. Taoism is an ancient Chinese philosophy that places great importance on living in balance with the natural world and the natural flow of life. This philosophy can offer valuable insights and guidance on how to achieve the SDGs in a sustainable and holistic manner. This chapter explores how the principles of Taoism can be applied to the SDGs. Particularly, the principle of non-action, or Wu Wei, can be used to promote sustainable development by encouraging individuals and organizations to work with nature rather than against it. Similarly, the concept of Yin and Yang can help promote balance and harmony in economic and social systems, which is crucial for achieving the SDGs. This chapter highlights the important role that Taoism's wisdom can play in realizing the SDGs. By promoting sustainable and harmonious development, Taoism can offer valuable insights and guidance on how to build a better future for all.

Folusho Ogunfiditimi is president of the American Academy of Physician Associates, based in Alexandria, Va., and administrator of practice management for Florida Health Care Plans in Daytona Beach, Fla. The author has disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.