bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CUAD biotechnology offers 0.5 USD per hectare for aphid control: innovative platform for low-cost plant protection
Authors: Oberemok Volodymyr V. , Puzanova Yelizaveta V. , Gal’chinsky Nikita V.
Published: May 2024

20 years ago it was difficult to imagine the use of nucleic acids in plant protection as insecticides, but today it is a reality. At the very beginning, new technologies often work inefficiently and are expensive; in the process of their development, qualitative changes occur that make new technologies accessible and work flawlessly. Invented in 2008, oligonucleotide insecticides based on CUAD (contact unmodified antisense DNA) platform have been improved and today possess characteristics that amaze the imagination: low carbon footprint, high safety for non-target organisms, rapid biodegradability in ecosystems, avoidance of target-site resistance. This next generation class of insecticides creates opportunities to develop insecticides which are well-tailored for a particular population of insect pest. CUAD biotechnology combines the achievements of molecular genetics, bioinformatics, andin vitronucleic acid synthesis providing a simple and flexible platform for plant protection. Aphids, as one of the key pests of important agricultural crops that shape food security, can be controlled by oligonucleotide insecticides at affordable price already today, ensuring effective control with minimal risks for the environment. In this article, low-dose concentration (0.1 ng/µL; 20 mg per hectare in 200 L of water solution) of 11-nt long oligonucleotide insecticide Schip-11 shows effectiveness on aphidSchizolachnus pineticausing 76.06 ± 7.68 mortality rate on the 12th day (p<0.05). At a consumption rate of 200 L per hectare, the price of the required amount of oligonucleotide insecticide will be about 0.5 USD/ha using liquid-phase DNA synthesis and makes oligonucleotide insecticides very competitive on the market. Also we show that non-canonical base pairing G:T (T:G) between target pre-rRNA and olinscide is well tolerated in aphids. Thus, non-canonical base-pairing should be taken into consideration during design of olinscides not to harm non-target organisms.
Isolation, cloning and expression analysis of two pyruvate orthophosphate dikinase genes ofChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Demirel Fadime , Cebrailoglu Nicat , Mammadova Faxriyya , Tangut Taha , Aksoy Munevver , Mammadova Gulshan , Hasanova Gulnara , Mamedov Tarlan
Published: May 2024

The green algaeC. reinhardtiiserves as a useful model for studying photosynthetic cells and has been extensively utilized for investigating various physiological processes. Currently, limited information is available regarding the molecular mechanisms controlling oil accumulation in microalgae. C4 photosynthesis metabolic pathways are essential for high rates of CO2fixation in plants. High rates of photosynthesis are crucial for the biomass accumulation of algae. Surprisingly, C4 pathway enzymes and their regulatory factors have not been studied at the molecular level in any green algae, except for our efforts, which focused on the molecular characterization of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) genes (Ppc) inC. reinhardtii(Mamedov et al., 2005; Moellering et al., 2007) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (Cebarailoglu, 2017). In this study, we isolated and cloned two pyruvate orthophosphate dikinase (PPDK) genes from the green microalgaC. reinhardtiifor the first time and performed expression analysis under different conditions. We demonstrate that bothppdkgenes encode functional PPDK enzymes inC. reinhardtiiand that both genes are responsive to changes in carbon dioxide or ammonium concentration during growth. Phylogenetic analysis suggests thatC. reinhardtiiPPDK2 is evolutionarily closer to PPDKs from plants rather than to protozoan and bacterial enzymes. Furthermore, alignment data indicate that the global structure and key amino acid residues involved in catalysis and substrate binding are well conserved in both PPDK enzymes in plants,C. reinhardtii, bacteria, and protozoa.
Systematic analysis of the target recognition and repression by the Pumilio proteins
Authors: Farberov Svetlana , Ulitsky Igor
Published: May 2024

RNA binding proteins orchestrate the post-transcriptional fate of RNA molecules, but the principles of their action remain poorly understood. Pumilio (PUM) proteins bind 3’UTRs of mRNAs and lead to mRNA decay. To comprehensively map the determinants of recognition of sequences by PUM proteins in cells and to study the binding outcomes, we developed a massively parallel RNA assay that profiled thousands of PUM binding sites in cells undergoing various perturbations or RNA immunoprecipitation. By studying fragments from theNORADlong noncoding RNA, we find two features that antagonize repression by PUM proteins – G/C rich sequences, particularly those upstream of the PUM recognition element, and binding of FAM120A, which limits the repression elicited by PUM binding sites. We also find that arrays of PUM sites separated by 8–12 bases offer particularly strong repression and use them to develop a particularly sensitive reporter for PUM repression. In contrast, PUM sites separated by shorter linkers, such as some of those found inNORAD, exhibit strong activity interdependence, likely mediated by competition between PUM binding and formation of strong secondary structures. Overall, our findings expand our understanding of the determinants of PUM protein activity in human cells.

Highlights

A massively parallel assay reports on the binding and activity of Pumilio proteins in human cells

G/C rich sequence context inhibits repression by Pumilio proteins

FAM120a binds sequences with Pumilio sites and antagonizes repression by Pumilio proteins

Arrays of Pumilio binding sites are most effective at distances of 8–12 nt.

Strong inter-dependency in the tandem Pumilio binding sites in NORAD.
Glutamate (E299) is a key residue in the evolutionarily divergence of the SAM-dependent methyltransferases DnrK and RdmB in anthracycline biosynthesis
Authors: Sang Moli , Yang Qingyu , Guo Jiawei , Feng Peiyuan , Ma Wencheng , Li Shengying , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

A novel sub-class ofS-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM)-dependent methyltransferases catalyze atypical chemical transformations in the biosynthesis of anthracyclines, which include antineoplastic compounds. Intriguingly, the closely related methyltransferases DnrK and RdmB have markedly divergent functions. We investigated their catalytic activities and discovered a previously unknown 10-hydroxylation activity for DnrK and 4-O-methylation activity for RdmB. Isotope-labeling demonstrated that the 10-hydroxy group introduced by DnrK is derived from water molecules while RdmB utilizes O2. A single residue, E299, was the key modulator in the differing catalytic functions of DnrK and RdmB, especially the decarboxylative oxidation activity. Furthermore, the multifunctionality of DnrK was demonstrated to be SAM-tunable and concerted, whereas RdmB activity was cofactor-dependent and stepwise. Our findings expand the versatility and importance of methyltransferases and should aid studies to enrich the structural diversity and bioactivities of anthracyclines.
How does COVID-19 affect employee innovation performance and environmental responsibility engagement in the banking sector? A moderated-mediated perspective
Authors: Hamdallah Madher E. , Al-Okaily Manaf , Srouji Anan F. , Al-Okaily Aws
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the article is to shed light on how COVID-19 affects employee involvement in environmental responsibility and innovative performance in the banking industry, and whether employee engagement mediates the relationship between the variables. Thus, this study tries to understand bank employees’ perspectives in relation to the variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was collected during Time lag (1) and Time lag (2) from 156 to 216 bank employees, respectively. The study applied two types of analysis, to comprehend the impact of COVID-19 on employees, descriptive analysis and the partial least squares (PLS) are used.

Findings

The study's findings focused mainly on the influence of COVID-19 in Jordanian banks on employee innovative performance (EIP) due to pandemic, in addition to its effect on environmental responsibility engagement (ERE). The findings indicated a positive significant relationship between the variables. Meanwhile, employee engagement (EE) mediated the effect between the exogenous and endogenous variables.

Originality/value

The current research provide light on the value of employees' innovative performance and banks' commitment to environmental responsibility for those working in the banking industry, particularly during a pandemic. The findings have significant ramifications for the banking industry and in raising employee engagement.
From pixels to production: the impact of digital finance on the industrial fabric of rural China
Authors: Zhang Yifeng , Ji Min-Xuan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to discern the role of digital finance in driving rural industrial integration and revitalization. Specifically, it intends to shed light on how the deep development of digital finance can contribute to the optimization and transformation of the rural industrial structure. The research further explores the particular effects of this financial transformation in the central and western regions of China.

Design/methodology/approach

This research studies the influence of digital finance on rural industrial integration across 30 Chinese provinces from 2011 to 2020. Utilizing the entropy weight method, a comprehensive evaluation index system is established to gauge the level of rural industrial integration. A two-way fixed effects model, intermediary effect model, and threshold effect model are employed to decipher the relationship between digital finance and rural industrial integration.

Findings

Findings reveal a positive relationship between digital finance and rural industrial integration. A single threshold feature was identified: beyond a traditional finance development level, the marginal effect of digital finance on rural industrial integration increases. These effects are more noticeable in central and western regions.

Originality/value

Empirical outcomes contribute to policy discourse on rural digital finance, assisting policymakers in crafting effective strategies. Understanding the threshold of traditional finance development provides a new perspective on the potential of digital finance to drive rural industrial integration.
Linguistic profiling and career development through the lived experience of service sector employees in Pakistan
Authors: Soomro Shuaib Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Understanding linguistic profiling and its substantial consequences on employee career development is essential in diverse workplaces. This study utilizes Levinson’s eras and career development theories to analyze the complicated relationship between linguistic profiling and biases, which hamper employee career development.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an interpretive methodology and conducted thematic data analysis. It documented lessons learned from diverse viewpoints through semi-structured interviews with 19 participants conducted in November and December 2022.

Findings

The study demonstrates that linguistic discrimination occurs in diverse workplaces. After data exploration, four intriguing themes appeared. The first theme was related to employees who were discriminated against because of various languages. This shows how often language choice affects employees. The second theme examined how linguistic profiling intersected with marginalized groups, increasing discrimination. The third theme, linguistic profiling and career development showed that bias had a huge influence on career progression. The fourth theme emphasizes organizational policies for preventing language discrimination, promoting career growth and inclusive organizations.

Originality/value

This study advances the understanding of linguistic profiling and career development in a multilingual society. In addition, it furthers discourse and provides ways to minimize biases, creating a more inclusive workplace environment.
Implementation of IDEAL algorithm based on Delaunay triangular mesh for 2D-compressible flows
Authors: Wu Tian-Yu , Zhang Jianfei , Dai Yanjun , Cao Tao-Feng , Ling Kong , Tao Wen-Quan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To present the detailed implementation processes of the IDEAL algorithm for two-dimensional compressible flows based on Delaunay triangular mesh, and compare the performance of the SIMPLE and IDEAL algorithms for solving compressible problems. What’s more, the implementation processes of Delaunay mesh generation and derivation of the pressure correction equation are also introduced.

Design/methodology/approach

Programming completely in C++.

Findings

Five compressible examples are used to test the SIMPLE and IDEAL algorithms, and the comparison with measurement data shows good agreement. The IDEAL algorithm has much better performance in both convergence rate and stability over the SIMPLE algorithm.

Originality/value

The detail solution procedure of implementing the IDEAL algorithm for compressible flows based on Delaunay triangular mesh is presented in this work, seemingly first in the literature.
A new fast four-point rainflow cycle counting algorithm by employing a new loop iteration mode for fatigue life estimation
Authors: Huang Gangting , Wu Qichen , Su Youbiao , Li Yunfei , Xie Shilin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In order to improve the computation efficiency of the four-point rainflow algorithm, a new fast four-point rainflow cycle counting algorithm (FFRA) using a novel loop iteration mode is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

In this new algorithm, the loop iteration mode is simplified by reducing the number of iterations, tests and deletions. The high efficiency of the new algorithm makes it a preferable candidate in fatigue life online estimation of structural health monitoring systems.

Findings

The extensive simulation results show that the extracted cycles by the new FFRA are the same as those by the four-point rainflow cycle counting algorithm (FRA) and the three-point rainflow cycle counting algorithm (TRA). Especially, the simulation results indicate that the computation efficiency of the FFRA has improved an average of 12.4 times compared to the FRA and an average of 8.9 times compared to the TRA. Moreover, the equivalence of cycle extraction results between the FFRA and the FRA is proved mathematically by utilizing some fundamental properties of the rainflow algorithm. Theoretical proof of the efficiency improvement of the FFRA in comparison to the FRA is also given.

Originality/value

This merit makes the FFRA preferable in online monitoring systems of structures where fatigue life estimation needs to be accomplished online based on massive measured data. It is noticeable that the high efficiency of the FFRA attributed to the simple loop iteration, which provides beneficial guidance to improve the efficiency of existing algorithms.
Hybrid lighting approach to improve interior workspace environments: a case study in the UAE
Authors: Al Kailani Mohammed , Al Dhaheri Aysha , Sheta Wael
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Interior workspace environments use exclusively artificial light, resulting in a loss of biological connection and natural light quality, as well as greater energy consumption. The purpose of the study is to identify a suitable system that can provide natural light to such interior spaces throughout the day while supplementing it with artificial light when necessary. The fundamental aim is to provide insights into the most effective solutions for energy-efficient lighting design in the UAE's environment, with the potential to lower energy consumption related to interior lighting.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted an empirical approach to gather and analyze primary data based on field measurements to understand and assess existing lighting conditions, as well as DIALux lighting simulation software to test the efficacy of the proposed HLS in terms of natural light delivery, illumination quality and energy consumption. A branch of a local bank in the United Arab Emirates, situated inside one of the shopping malls where there is no natural light penetration, has been chosen as a case study.

Findings

The findings of comparing the base case to four probable scenarios that used HLS revealed that the third scenario, which uses 100% pure sunshine and 35% artificial LED light during daylight operations and 100% LED light during night duty, is considered to be optimal in terms of illumination quality and energy efficiency.

Originality/value

The study demonstrated the potential of innovative lighting to improve the visual working environment in interior spaces with limited access to direct natural lighting, especially in arid regions, where sunlight is plentiful throughout the year. The study contributes new insights into the establishment of lighting-related recommendations and standards for the UAE context. This may include advice for sustainable construction practices, lighting guidelines or incentives to encourage the use of hybrid lighting technology in commercial and institutional buildings.
Renegotiable debt, liquidity injections and financial instability
Authors: Doh Hyun Soo , Feng Guanhao
Published: May 2024

This paper develops a debt-run model to study the effects of liquidity injections on debt markets in the presence of a renegotiation option. In the model, creditors decide when to withdraw their funding and equityholders can renegotiate the contract terms of debt. We show that when equityholders have a large bargaining power, liquidity injections into distressed firms can rather cause more aggressive runs from their creditors, hurting the debt value. This outcome occurs because equityholders can strategically utilize the renegotiation option as a bankruptcy threat, pushing down the debt value below the potential liquidation value of the firm. In such a scenario, a deterred default resulting from emergency capital injections could be detrimental to creditors.
FIU operational effectiveness – findings and observations from the Asian Development Bank perspective
Authors: Png Cheong-Ann
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the specific findings on the level of technical compliance and operational effectiveness of the national financial intelligence units (FIUs) in 55 members of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the mutual evaluations carried out by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and its regional bodies (also referred to as FATF-style regional bodies) in connection with the current international standard for combating money laundering and terrorism financing (i.e. the FATF recommendations). It also provides three observations for enhancing the use of financial information and intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach

Review of published reports on country mutual evaluations from the FATF and its regional bodies.

Findings

A majority of the FIUs from these 55 members of the ADB were rated around the “mid-range” under the FATF methodology used for the mutual evaluations (i.e. “compliant and substantially effective”, “largely compliant and substantially effective”, “compliant and moderately effective” and “largely compliant and moderately effective”). Observations were also provided on cross-cutting areas for enhancing the use of financial information and intelligence.

Originality/value

FIU operations are key to combating money laundering and terrorism financing, and this examination of the level of technical compliance with the international standard and related operational effectiveness provides an useful account of current developments in this space and suggestions for further actions by relevant national authorities and provision of country technical assistance and support by donor partners.
Analysis of asset management difficulties observed in Brazilian firms: a study based on expert survey and fuzzy TOPSIS
Authors: da Cruz Marcelo Miguel , Caiado Rodrigo Goyannes Gusmão , Sigahi Tiago F.A.C. , Anholon Rosley , Quelhas Osvaldo L.G. , Rampasso Izabela Simon
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to understand the difficulties related to asset management observed by experts in Brazilian organizations in light of the requirements outlined in the ISO 55001:2014 standard.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was performed with asset management experts. The collected data were analyzed using frequency analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis and fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to deal solution (TOPSIS).

Findings

Based on data analysis, the most critical difficulties observed were related to managing and controlling the impact of changes in the company that affect asset management objectives; to the committing to and supporting the asset management system by the top management of the organization; to manage the processes for dealing with risks and opportunities for the asset management system and plans, and correcting failures in asset performance; and to plan and conduct actions in an integrated manner to identify and minimize adverse impacts associated with the asset management system, and afterwards verifying their effectiveness.

Originality/value

The findings of this study have important theoretical and practical contributions, since they indicate the most critical points observed in asset management in Brazil, which can be used as a source for future research and by professionals to prioritize difficulties in future planning and develop action plans to overcome them. The step-by-step methodological approach presented in this study provides professionals and researchers with a replicable method of identifying potential asset management difficulties in a given specific reality.
The influence of corporate social responsibility on impulse buying
Authors: Ullah Shafqat , Jianjun Zhu , Saif Saad , Hayat Khizar , Ali Sharafat
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) ISO standards have been noted as an essential marketing strategy by which firms can achieve consumer trust while improving environmental, social, and quality factors. This study discloses the contextual relationship between CSR ISO standards and sustainable impulse buying behavior. This study also looks to uncover the CSR ISO driving and linkage factors that motivate consumers to make sustainable impulsive purchases.

Design/methodology/approach

Three distinct research methods were employed in this research. First, a consumer expert opinion-based Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach was adopted to reveal the contextual relationship between CSR ISO factors and sustainable impulse buying behavior. Secondly, Matrice Impacts Croises Multiplication Appliques Classement (MICMAC) was used to examine these factors' driving and dependent power. In addition, Minitab package software was also used to check the statistical validation of ISM-MICMAC results.

Findings

The results indicate that although environmentally responsible CSR ISO 14001, socially responsible CSR ISO 26000, and consumer perception of product quality CSR ISO 9001 standards contain strong driving power, their dependent power was weak. All these CSR ISO factors (14,001, 26,000, and 9001) strongly impact each other and sustainable impulse buying. Therefore, these three CSR ISO factors have been placed at the bottom of the ISM model. The CSR ISO 14020 standard (labeling of the product), knowledge of CSR ISO standards, consumer trust, and advertising about CSR ISO standards have been placed in the middle. The mentioned factors have intense driving and dependent power and are classified as linkage factors for sustainable impulse buying. Impulse buying behavior has weak driving and strong dependent power, yet this factor strongly depends on other CSR ISO factors. Hence, this factor is placed at the top of the ISM model. In addition, the Minitab package software results indicate that ISM-MICMAC results are statistically valid.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this research is unique and examines the influence of CSR ISO factors on sustainable impulse buying in the context of Pakistani consumers. Secondly, our study has thoroughly investigated several CSR ISO factors and allied these factors in the context of consumer buying behavior. Third, several CSR ISO factors and impulse buying behavior were examined using a mix of ISM-MICAC and Minitab methods. Thus, including these steps in our study has led to the development of a novel technique.
Dynamic seismic signatures in a fluid‐saturated porous periodically layered medium considering effects of intrinsic anisotropy
Authors: He Dan , Guo Junxin
Published: May 2024

The interlayer wave‐induced fluid flow is an important mechanism for seismic attenuation and dispersion, as well as frequency‐dependent anisotropy, in the fluid‐saturated porous layered medium. This mechanism is closely related to the medium physical properties, and thus quantifying this mechanism is of significance for the seismic inversion of medium physical properties. Although numerous models have been proposed to quantify this mechanism, most models do not consider the effects of layer intrinsic anisotropy. To solve this problem, the effective complex‐valued and frequency‐dependent stiffness coefficients are derived for the fluid‐saturated porous medium composed of periodic transversely isotropic layers. Using the derived solutions, we study the effects of layer intrinsic anisotropy on seismic dispersion and attenuation, as well as frequency‐dependent anisotropy. It has been found that different matrix or fluid property contrasts between adjacent layers lead to different effects of intrinsic anisotropy. In addition, the effects of intrinsic anisotropy are also influenced by the fluid distribution when both matrix and fluid properties contrast among adjacent layers exist. In the low‐ and high‐frequency limits of wave‐induced fluid flow, our model reduces to the previous known results, which validates the correctness of our model. Our model can be applied in the seismic inversion of physical properties of reservoirs with intrinsic anisotropy, such as shale and tight sandstone reservoirs. In addition, our model can also be extended to cases with more complex intrinsic anisotropy and, thus, can be applied to complex anisotropic fractured reservoirs in the future.
Herbivores can benefit both plants and their pathogens through selective herbivory on diseased tissue
Authors: Murray Naomi A. , DuBois Katherine , Stachowicz John J.
Published: May 2024

Infectious disease can shape community structure, particularly when pathogens affect foundation species. Seagrasses are foundation species that form meadows along coasts worldwide, controlling sediment deposition and biogeochemical cycling while supporting a diverse community of fish and invertebrates. These plants are hosts to wasting diseases that cause necrotic tissue lesions, which could alter seagrass value as food, habitat and mediators of ecosystem processes. However, such biotic interactions and influences on disease dynamics are still not well understood. We investigated whether a common herbivore affected the development of wasting disease on eelgrass.

We measured the severity and prevalence of eelgrass wasting disease in a meadow across two summers through repeated field surveys. We assessed the role of the eelgrass herbivore on disease spread and growth using microcosm and mesocosm experiments. We further explored herbivore feeding preferences in a choice trial, which was paired with chemical analysis of plant tissue and analysed using a structural equation model.

While the herbivore facilitates the growth of new disease lesions among isolated leaves, on balance they reduce lesion severity by more than 50% in comparison with no‐herbivore controls in field‐realistic settings. This was likely because the herbivore strongly prefers to eat diseased rather than healthy tissue, consuming nearly twice as much lesion area in choice trials. This preference arises from pathogen‐driven changes in the host plant; lesioned tissue requires less force to penetrate than non‐lesioned tissue. Additionally, as lesions increase in size, their polyphenolic concentrations drop, which further increases the magnitude of preference for lesioned tissue.

Synthesis: These results suggest that these herbivores could help maintain disease in this system at a high prevalence (by facilitating disease development) but low severity (through preferential consumption), which is consistent with our field observations of nearly 100% prevalence and low severity in a natural bed where herbivore density is high. Describing such multi‐species interactions in marine systems will advance our predictions of future disease states, as current understandings focus primarily on how environmental change contributes to pathogen outbreaks.
The importance of male underwear in cases of alleged sexual assault
Authors: Flanagan Lorna , Murphy Charlotte , Savage Paula , Breathnach Michelle , Ryan Jennifer
Published: May 2024

The potential evidential value of male underwear in cases of alleged sexual assault is often overlooked. Male underwear can be a critical item in the investigation of alleged sexual assaults. Body fluids/DNA, which may transfer to the penis during sexual contact, may in turn transfer to the inside front of the underwear, and persist for months or years, provided the underwear are not washed. Here, we demonstrate how the case circumstances drive the sampling strategy of male underwear, in order to maximize the effectiveness of the forensic analysis. Sampling considerations including recovery methods and sampling sequence are discussed, and a methodical examination strategy of male underwear is proposed. To highlight the pertinence of male underwear to the investigation of alleged sexual assaults, three real‐life cases are discussed, in which male underwear were examined for multiple body fluids/DNA, and the findings obtained proved evidentially significant. The different cases demonstrate the versatility of male underwear examination in situations, where different body fluids and DNA may transfer based on the specific allegation, and emphasize how targeted sampling can allow the scientist to assess the probability of the findings based on two competing propositions. Accurate sampling strategies are imperative for robust probability assignment in evaluative reporting of scientific findings.
Re‐examining the effect of heat and water stress on agricultural output growth: How is Sub‐Saharan Africa different?
Authors: Jarrett Uchechukwu , Tackie Yvonne
Published: May 2024

We examine the impact of climate driven heat and water stress on aggregate crop production growth, paying particular attention to the Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) region as opposed to studies with a global or Non SSA focus. Using gridded data on temperature and precipitation, which is crop weighted and averaged to the national level, we generate measures of stressors that capture average temperature and precipitation shocks, and extreme punctuated events like dry spells and heat waves for 38 countries in Sub Saharan Africa between 1979 and 2016. We find in general that compared to estimates with a global or non SSA focus, the detrimental effect of increased annual temperature has been overstated, while the damage caused by shorter‐term extremes like dry spells and heat waves has been understated. This implies that region specific analysis is key in developing a more comprehensive understanding of climate change. Such analyses are pivotal for climate policy development allowing for more spatially efficient allocation of limited financial resources, and greater accuracy in estimating adaptation effects.
Factors influencing United States cattle producers use of livestock risk protection
Authors: Boyer Christopher N. , DeLong Karen L. , Griffith Andrew P. , Martinez Charles C.
Published: May 2024

United States cattle producers have various government‐sponsored programs to protect against weather and disease related risks, but livestock risk protection (LRP) insurance is the only program that protects against price risk. However, adoption of LRP insurance is low even though cattle price declines are the primary cause of economic loss, and LRP premium subsidies have recently been increased. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore how informational nudges about receiving an indemnity payment, LRP contract characteristics, and individual risk preferences affect the use of LRP. Producer survey results were estimated using a Cragg model to determine the factors affecting producers’ likelihood of purchasing LRP and the number of head they would insure. Producers were more likely to purchase 100% LRP coverage and would also insure more head at 100% coverage when compared to lower coverage levels. We found providing information on the probability of receiving an indemnity did not impact LRP purchasing decisions. However, counter to expectations, producers were more likely to buy LRP when the randomly provided cattle prices in the survey were successively increasing each month, and if participants considered themselves more willing to take risks in their cattle operation. Results provide insights into behavioral factors affecting LRP participation which could help inform future insurance policies.
A backlash against the high‐speed modernity of gastronomy tourism: An analysis of the evolution of Macanese cuisine
Authors: Song Ke , Wan Hokkun , Jia Qiaoran
Published: May 2024

In structuration theory, Giddens emphasises the importance of social practices in shaping and reproducing social structures, believing that the constitution of agents and structures represents a duality and advocating that structure is both a medium and outcome of the reproduction of practices. The traditional culture and customs embodied in Macanese cuisine can be considered as a structured process. Macanese cuisine reflects the unique food culture and customs of Macao society, presenting an irreplaceable way of life and cultural value. Macanese cuisine has developed based on the traditional customs and practices of the Macanese. It is recognised as an important intangible cultural heritage, receiving protection and promotion from the government. However, high‐speed modernity challenges the guarantee for continuity of Macanese traditional customs. Debates continue regarding how to promote the sustainability of Macanese cuisine. This study adopts Giddens' structuration theory to understand the evolutionary process of Macanese cuisine. It reveals the significance of individual agents' initiatives in promoting the rebirth of Macanese cuisine, and preserving the distinctiveness and self‐assertion of the Macanese community. Furthermore, the fusion culture that underlies Macanese cuisine can moderate the high‐speed modernity of gastronomy tourism and promote this cuisine's sustainability.
Bat pollination at the southwestern margin of the Neotropics revealed by direct evidence
Authors: Boero Lourdes , Barquez Rubén M. , Barrientos Ignacio R. , Lépez Martín , Cocucci Andrea A.
Published: May 2024

Bat pollination at the range margin in the southwestern Neotropics has been largely unexplored. We provide for the first time direct evidence on bat pollination, visitation rate, and efficiency for three species of the Southern Andean Yungas. These interactions are valuable targets for future conservation efforts in this endangered ecosystem.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
LAG‐3 : recent developments in combinational therapies in cancer
Authors: Chavanton Aude , Mialhe Flavie , Abrey Jimena , Baeza Garcia Alvaro , Garrido Carmen
Published: May 2024

The study of anticancer immune responses and in particular the action of immune checkpoint inhibitors that overcome T cell inhibition has revolutionized metastatic patients' care. Unfortunately, many patients are resistant to these innovative immunotherapies. Over the last decade, several immune checkpoint inhibitors, currently available in the clinic, have been developed, such as anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 or anti‐CTLA‐4. More recently, other immune checkpoints have been characterized, among them lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG‐3). LAG‐3 has been the subject of numerous therapeutic studies and may be involved in cancer‐associated immune resistance phenomena. This review summarizes the latest knowledge on LAG‐3 as an immunotherapeutic target, particularly in combination with standard or innovative therapies. Indeed, many studies are looking at combining LAG‐3 inhibitors with chemotherapeutic, immunotherapeutic, radiotherapeutic treatments, or adoptive cell therapies to potentiate their antitumor effects and/or to overcome patients' resistance. We will particularly focus on the association therapies that are currently in phase III clinical trials and innovative combinations in preclinical phase. These new discoveries highlight the possibility of developing other types of therapeutic combinations currently unavailable in the clinic, which could broaden the therapeutic spectrum of personalized medicine.
Historical biogeography of the Neotropical noctilionoid bats (Chiroptera: Noctilionoidea), revisited through a geographically explicit analysis
Authors: Amador Lucila I. , Arias J. Salvador , Giannini Norberto P.
Published: May 2024

Biogeographic studies have generally relied on methods that use a few, large predefined areas, which may overlook fine‐scale patterns. Here we test previous hypotheses about the biogeographic history of a diverse bat clade regarding its association with major Neotropical geological formations, particularly the Antilles, the South American Dry Diagonal, the Andes and the Panamanian land bridge, by applying a recently available method that uses actual distributions instead of predefined areas. We compiled and curated spatially explicit, georeferenced data of 173 bat species (Mammalia: Chiroptera: Noctilionoidea) from the online database Global Biodiversity Information Facility. By taking a previous comprehensive phylogeny as an evolutionary framework, we performed computationally intensive analyses using the Geographically‐explicit Event Model. This method uses the observed species distributions to reconstruct the ancestral areas and biogeographic events at each phylogeny node. We found that sympatric speciation was the most frequently reconstructed event, and involved mainly the Panamanian Isthmus and northern South America (SA), but all sympatry reconstructions were different and specific to each node. Allopatric events were important in the Andes; vicariance caused both west/east and north/south disjunctions that went unnoticed previously. Founder events indicated bidirectional dispersal between the mainland and the Antilles since the Miocene, and across the incomplete Panamanian bridge and the SA Dry Diagonal since the early Pliocene. Overall, we found support for previous hypotheses on the influence of major Neotropical paleogeographic events in the diversification of the group, but additionally revealed multi‐scale patterns that are embedded within the mainland and were previously overlooked. Our results highlight a trans‐isthmian centre of diversification in the biogeographic history of Noctilionoidea including the Panamanian Isthmus and Northern SA.
Correlation between desynchrony of hippocampal neural activity and hyperlocomotion in the model mice of schizophrenia and therapeutic effects of aripiprazole
Authors: Wang Xueru , Li Zijie , Kuai Shihui , Wang Xuejiao , Chen Jingyu , Yang Yanping , Qin Ling
Published: May 2024

Aims

The hippocampus has been reported to be morphologically and neurochemically altered in schizophrenia (SZ). Hyperlocomotion is a characteristic SZ‐associated behavioral phenotype, which is associated with dysregulated dopamine system function induced by hippocampal hyperactivity. However, the neural mechanism of hippocampus underlying hyperlocomotion remains largely unclear.

Methods

Mouse pups were injected with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antagonist (MK‐801) or vehicle twice daily on postnatal days (PND) 7–11. In the adulthood phase, one cohort of mice underwent electrode implantation in field CA1 of the hippocampus for the recording local field potentials and spike activity. A separate cohort of mice underwent surgery to allow for calcium imaging of the hippocampus while monitoring the locomotion. Lastly, the effects of atypical antipsychotic (aripiprazole, ARI) were evaluated on hippocampal neural activity.

Results

We found that the hippocampal theta oscillations were enhanced in MK‐801‐treated mice, but the correlation coefficient between the hippocampal spiking activity and theta oscillation was reduced. Consistently, although the rate and amplitude of calcium transients of hippocampal neurons were increased, their synchrony and correlation to locomotion speed were disrupted. ARI ameliorated perturbations produced by the postnatal MK‐801 treatment.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the disruption of neural coordination may underly the neuropathological mechanism for hyperlocomotion of SZ.
The prevalence of hand dermatitis among intensive care unit nurses
Authors: Mossel Rosalin M. , Naber René J. , van Manen Babs C. T. , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background

Healthcare workers are at high risk of developing occupational hand dermatitis (HD) due to their frequent exposure to wet‐work and use of gloves. Complaints of HD may interfere with work and cause loss of work productivity, or sick leave, and may have impact on job pleasure and performing daily activities. The prevalence of HD among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses is unknown.

Objectives

To investigate the point prevalence and the 1‐year prevalence of HD among ICU nurses, and to determine the impact of HD on work and daily activities.

Method

A questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study was performed among ICU nurses. Participants were recruited in the Amsterdam University Medical Centre. A symptom‐based questionnaire was used to determine HD and atopic predisposition, and an additional questionnaire was used concerning the influence of HD. ICU nurses with an atopic predisposition or symptoms suiting HD were invited for the hand dermatitis consultation hour (HDCH). Data were analysed with logistic regression.

Results

A total of 184 ICU nurses were included. The point prevalence of HD was 9.8% (95% CI: 5.9–15.0) and the 1‐year prevalence was 26.6% (95% CI: 20.4–33.6). Sick leave was reported by 0.5%. HD seemed to have more impact on job pleasure than on work productivity.

Conclusion

The high prevalence rate of HD resulting from our study highlights the need for the prevention of occupational HD among healthcare workers.
Vibrational communication in Scolypopa australis: characterising spontaneous and intrasexual calls in an invasive orchard pest
Authors: MacDougall Mark S. , Stringer Lloyd D. , Borthwick‐Taylor Greer , Nelson Ximena J.
Published: May 2024

Vibrational communication in the Auchenorrhyncha is an avenue of growing interest, with many pesticide‐free vibrational pest control programmes against auchenorrhynchan agricultural pests continuing to be developed around the world. Passion vine hoppers (PVH), Scolypopa australis (Walker) (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae), are an economically damaging pest species in New Zealand, where they facilitate the growth of sooty mould in kiwifruit orchards. Scolypopa australis is already known to use vibrational signals, therefore a further understanding of the spectral and temporal characteristics of its calls will be an essential next step to developing vibration‐based pest management strategies. Here, we aimed to characterise the properties of spontaneous S. australis calls in solitary and intrasexual communication contexts. We used laser Doppler vibrometry to record vibrational signals produced by male and female S. australis (separately), when in groups of three or individually. We sorted calls and call sub‐units (syllables) into groups based on cluster analyses of various spatio‐temporal parameters. We define four male calls and three female calls, and newly describe a ‘two‐syllable’ calling structure that may be involved in male intrasexual competition. Certain syllables were more prevalent at the beginning or end of calls for males, and were more homogenously distributed throughout calls for females. The types of calls used differed between single males and groups, with more energetically intense call types observed in the group settings. Additional studies on the behavioural context of S. australis vibrational calls and their responses to playback of such calls will be necessary to assess the viability of vibration‐based pest management for this species.
Delivering a sleep intervention across a youth mental health service using non‐expert practitioners: A service evaluation
Authors: Rollinson Rebecca , Cole Amber , Gee Brioney , Tofan Ioana , Graham Adam , Hatton Jude , Lyons Jonathan , Reeve Sarah , Wilson Jonathan , Beardsworth Kevin , Clarke Tim
Published: May 2024

Aims

Poor sleep is highly prevalent in young people and increases risk of mental health difficulties, yet access to sleep interventions remains limited. This paper evaluates the use of a sleep intervention delivered by non‐expert practitioners in a secondary care youth mental health service.

Method

Assistant psychologists were trained to deliver a six‐session 1:1 cognitive‐behavioural sleep intervention adapted for use with young people with mental health difficulties. A within‐subject design assessed clinical outcomes relating to sleep (Insomnia Severity Index), psychological distress and personal goals (Goal Based Outcome Measures) at four time points.

Results

High referral, intervention take‐up (82.82%) and completion (70%) rates were reported, together with high baseline levels of insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index mean 20.47, SD 3.68) and poor sleep efficiency (56.36%, SD 17.23). Fifty‐six young people (average age 19.2 years, SD 3.25) were included in the outcome analysis. Statistically and clinically significant improvements were seen across all outcome measures, with 68% no longer meeting clinical threshold (ISI ≥15) for insomnia at endpoint.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates exceptionally high levels of clinical need and engagement with a sleep intervention adapted specifically for young people with mental health difficulties. Whilst limited by the uncontrolled design, large improvements in insomnia and psychological distress support its effectiveness and utility in clinical settings. More robust implementation and evaluation is warranted in broader youth mental health services to promote earlier access.
Perceived expressed emotion in individuals with a first episode of psychosis from a south Asian background
Authors: Ramanathan Amrita , Miah Syed K. , Nagularaj Lidushi , Sharif Hira Salman , Shaikh Madiha
Published: May 2024

Aim

To explore perceived expressed emotion in the south Asian context for individuals with a first episode of psychosis (FEP).

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 16 service users experiencing a FEP to understand their experience of expressed emotion (EE) from their caregivers. Interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Four main categories were identified: connection and support, understanding and awareness, boundaries and independence and context and influence. Factors influencing perceived expressed emotion such as acceptance, acculturation, warmth and expressions of love, communication and family values were identified. Findings highlight south Asian's experiences of being cared for, and their perception of EE, including warmth and connection as a strength and resource.

Conclusion

The findings shed light on culturally specific EE within the context of FEP that can be considered when working with south Asian communities within early intervention services. Findings highlight the impact of navigating and negotiating bicultural identities and generational differences in EE in the British south Asian context.