bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
InvasiveVespa velutina nigrithoraxhornets are more susceptible to entomopathogenic fungus than two other hymenopteran species, the waspVespa vulgarisand the bumblebeeBombus terrestris
Authors: Lacombrade Mathilde , Rocher Naïs , Mahot-Castaing Blandine , Vogelweith Fanny , Lihoreau Mathieu , Thiéry Denis
Published: November 2024

Entomopathogenic fungi are commonly used as biological control agents. Recently, a strain ofMetarhizium robertsii(Sorokin, 1883) (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) collected in France was identified as a good candidate for controlling invasive populations of yellow-legged hornet,Vespa velutina nigrithorax(Buysson, 1905) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) in Europe. SinceM. robertsiiis generalist, its use as bioagent could be damaging for non-targeted species. Here, we compared the lethal effects of three concentrations of thisM. robertsiistrain on the invasive hornet and two non-targeted species commonly found in Europe, the common waspVespa vulgaris(Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) and the buff-tailed bumblebeeBombus terrestris(Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera: Apidae). Exposure toM. robertsiispores altered the survival of all three species but at different degrees. Hornets had consistently lower survival, even under low concentrations of spores, when compared to wasps and bumblebees. Such lower susceptibility of beneficial Hymenoptera is encouraging in the perspectives of usingM. robertsiias biocontrol agent against invasive hornets.
The histone chaperone Spt6 controls chromatin structure through its conserved N-terminal domain
Authors: Warner James L. , Lux Vanda , Veverka Václav , Winston Fred
Published: November 2024

The disassembly and reassembly of nucleosomes by histone chaperones is an essential activity during eukaryotic transcription elongation. This highly conserved process maintains chromatin integrity by transiently removing nucleosomes as barriers and then restoring them in the wake of transcription. While transcription elongation requires multiple histone chaperones, there is little understanding of how most of them function and why so many are required. Here, we show that the histone chaperone Spt6 acts through its acidic, intrinsically disordered N-terminal domain (NTD) to bind histones and control chromatin structure. The Spt6 NTD is essential for viability and its histone binding activity is conserved between yeast and humans. The essential nature of the Spt6 NTD can be bypassed by changes in another histone chaperone, FACT, revealing a close functional connection between the two. Our results have led to a mechanistic model for dynamic cooperation between multiple histone chaperones during transcription elongation.
The glycosyltransferase POGLUT1 regulates muscle stem cell development and maintenance in mice
Authors: Cho Soomin , Servián-Morilla Emilia , Garrido Victoria Navarro , Rodriguez-Gonzalez Beatriz , Yuan Youxi , Cano Raquel , Rambhiya Arjun A. , Darabi Radbod , Haltiwanger Robert S. , Paradas Carmen , Jafar-Nejad Hamed
Published: November 2024

Mutations in proteinO-glucosyltransferase 1 (POGLUT1) cause a recessive form of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD-R21) associated with reduced satellite cell number and NOTCH1 signaling in adult patient muscles and impaired myogenic capacity of patient-derived muscle progenitors. However, thein vivoroles of POGLUT1 in the development, function, and maintenance of satellite cells are not well understood. Here, we show that conditional deletion of mousePoglut1in myogenic progenitors leads to early lethality, postnatal muscle growth defects, reducedPax7expression, abnormality in muscle extracellular matrix, and impaired muscle repair.Poglut1-deficient muscle progenitors exhibit reduced proliferation, enhanced differentiation, and accelerated fusion into myofibers. Inducible loss ofPoglut1in adult satellite cells leads to their precocious differentiation and impairs muscle repair upon serial injury. Cell-based signaling assays and mass spectrometric analysis indicate that POGLUT1 is required for the activation of NOTCH1, NOTCH2, and NOTCH3 in myoblasts and that NOTCH3 is a target of POGLUT1 like NOTCH1 and NOTCH2. These observations provide insight into the roles of POGLUT1 in muscle development and repair and the pathophysiology of LGMD-R21.
Constraining
λBs
by
Bs→γ*
and
Bs→ϕ
form factors
Authors: Ivanov Mikhail A. , Melikhov Dmitri , Simula Silvano
Published: November 2024

We calculate the form factors FV(q2,q′2) and FTV(q2,q′2) describing the Bs→γ* transition induced by the vector and tensor weak currents in a broad range of values of q2 and q′2 far below the quark thresholds in both

q

2

and q′2 channels. These form factors are calculated via the distribution amplitudes of the Bs-meson. We then interpolate the obtained results by a formula that contains pole at q′2=Mϕ2 and extract the residue which gives the Bs→ϕ transition form factors V(q2) and T1(q2). In this way we obtain theoretical predictions for these form factors without invoking quark-hadron duality and QCD sum rules. Furthermore, we calculate the relationship between V(0) and T1(0) and the parameter λBs(μ), the inverse moment of the Bs-meson distribution amplitude. Using the available predictions for V(0) and T1(0) coming from approaches not referring to the Bs-meson distribution amplitudes, we obtain the estimate λBs(μ≃mb)=(0.62±0.10)  GeV.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Gaussian level-set percolation on complex networks
Authors: Kühn Reimer
Published: November 2024

We present a solution of the problem of level-set percolation for multivariate Gaussians defined in terms of weighted graph Laplacians on complex networks. It is achieved using a cavity or message passing approach, which allows one to obtain the essential ingredient required for the solution, viz. a self-consistent determination of locally varying percolation probabilities. The cavity solution can be evaluated both for single large instances of locally treelike graphs, and in the thermodynamic limit of random graphs of finite mean degree in the configuration model class. The critical level hc of the percolation transition is obtained through the condition that the largest eigenvalue of a weighted version B of a nonbacktracking matrix satisfies λmax(B)|hc=1. We present level-dependent distributions of local percolation probabilities for Erdős-Rényi networks and and for networks with degree distributions described by power laws. We find that there is a strong correlation between marginal single-node variances of a massless multivariate Gaussian and local percolation probabilities at a given level h, which is nearly perfect at negative values h, but weakens as h↗0 for the system with power-law degree distribution, and generally also for negative values of h, if the multivariate Gaussian acquires a nonzero mass. The theoretical analysis simplifies in the case of random regular graphs with uniform edge weights of the weighted graph Laplacian of the system and uniform mass parameter of the Gaussian field. An asymptotic analysis reveals that for edge weights K=K(c)≡1 the critical percolation threshold hc decreases to 0, as the degree c of the random regular graph diverges. For K=(c)=1/c, however, the critical percolation threshold hc is shown to diverge as c→∞.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Giant superhydrophobic slip of shear-thinning liquids
Authors: Schnitzer Ory , Ray Prasun K.
Published: November 2024

We theoretically illustrate how complex fluids flowing over superhydrophobic surfaces may exhibit giant flow enhancements in the double limit of small solid fractions (ε≪1) and strong shear thinning (β≪1, β being the ratio of the viscosity at infinite shear rate to that at zero shear rate). Considering a Carreau liquid within the canonical scenario of longitudinal shear-driven flow over a grooved superhydrophobic surface, we show that, as β is decreased, the scaling of the effective slip length at small solid fractions is enhanced from the logarithmic scaling ln(1/ε) for Newtonian fluids to the algebraic scaling 1/ε1−nn, attained for β=O(ε1−nn), n∈(0,1) being the exponent in the Carreau model. We illuminate this scaling enhancement and the geometric-rheological mechanism underlying it through asymptotic arguments and numerical simulations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Variational quantum simulation using non-Gaussian continuous-variable systems
Authors: Stornati Paolo , Acin Antonio , Chabaud Ulysse , Dauphin Alexandre , Parigi Valentina , Centrone Federico
Published: November 2024

This work introduces an approach to quantum simulation by leveraging continuous-variable systems within a photonic hardware-inspired framework. The primary focus is on simulating static properties of the ground state of Hamiltonians associated with infinite-dimensional systems, such as those arising in quantum field theory. We present a continuous-variable variational quantum eigensolver compatible with state-of-the-art photonic technology. The framework we introduce allows us to compare discrete and continuous variable systems without introducing a truncation of the Hilbert space, opening the possibility to investigate the scenarios where one of the two formalisms performs better. We apply it to the study of static properties of the Bose-Hubbard model and demonstrate its effectiveness and practicality, highlighting the potential of continuous-variable quantum simulations in addressing complex problems in quantum physics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Assessing the Ubiquity of Bloch Domain Walls in Ferroelectric Lead Titanate Superlattices
Authors: Zatterin Edoardo , Ondrejkovic Petr , Bastogne Louis , Lichtensteiger Céline , Tovaglieri Ludovica , Chaney Daniel A. , Sasani Alireza , Schülli Tobias , Bosak Alexei , Leake Steven , Zubko Pavlo , Ghosez Philippe , Hlinka Jirka , Triscone Jean-Marc , Hadjimichael Marios
Published: November 2024

The observation of unexpected polarization textures such as vortices, skyrmions, and merons in various oxide heterostructures has challenged the widely accepted picture of ferroelectric domain walls as being Ising-like. Bloch components in the 180° domain walls of PbTiO3 have recently been reported in PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices and linked to domain wall chirality. While this opens exciting perspectives, the ubiquity of this Bloch component remains to be further explored. In this work, we present a comprehensive investigation of domain walls in PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices, involving a combination of first- and second-principles calculations, phase-field simulations, diffuse scattering calculations, and synchrotron-based diffuse x-ray scattering. Our theoretical calculations highlight that the previously predicted Bloch polarization in the 180° domain walls in PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices might be more sensitive to the boundary conditions than initially thought and is not always expected to appear. Employing diffuse scattering calculations for larger systems, we develop a method to probe the complex structure of domain walls in these superlattices via diffuse x-ray scattering measurements. Through this approach, we investigate depolarization-driven ferroelectric polarization rotation at the domain walls. Our experimental findings, consistent with our theoretical predictions for realistic domain periods, do not reveal any signatures of a Bloch component in the centers of the 180° domain walls of PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices, suggesting that the precise nature of domain walls in the ultrathin PbTiO3 layers is more intricate than previously thought and deserves further attention.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Estimating farmers’ willingness to pay for crop insurance with application of choice experiment: case study in South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Wassie Asmamaw Getnet , Nesibu Shegaw Getu , Mengistu Yismaw Ayelign
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to estimate farmers’ willingness to pay for crop insurance, utilizing a choice experiment case study in the South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary cross-sectional data were collected in 2023 from 240 farm households. The choice experiment method was employed to elicit farmers’ willingness to pay for crop insurance. Five attributes, including monetary cost, were identified for the choice experiment, with two improved scenarios and a status quo presented to respondents. The mixed logit model and extended mixed logit model were used for analysis.

Findings

The econometric model indicated that, with the exception of one attribute, all were positive and statistically significant. Farmers showed a preference for improved scenarios over the status quo, demonstrating a willingness to pay for crop insurance. The extended mixed logit model revealed that factors such as livestock ownership, household head’s sex, family size, income, farming experience, crop risk exposure, and additional occupations significantly influenced farmers’ preferences for crop insurance.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s sample size was limited to 240 farm households, which is relatively small. More reliable results could be obtained with a larger sample size. Another significant limitation is the study’s failure to account for institutional setups when assessing farmers’ willingness to pay for crop insurance.

Practical implications

Agricultural risk, particularly crop risk, is severe in the study area. The results suggest that farmers have a genuine need for risk mitigation mechanisms, such as crop insurance. The findings reflect farmers’ interest in crop insurance, indicating that responsible entities, whether governmental or private insurance companies, can readily implement crop insurance schemes.

Social implications

The study has significant social implications, as the society in the study area is highly vulnerable to crop risk, which adversely affects their livelihood. Introducing a crop insurance scheme could enhance the welfare and livelihood of the local population.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this study is novel in both concept and methodology. Unlike previous studies, which focused on specific crop risks, this study considers multiple crop risks. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and other stakeholders involved in crop insurance. Understanding farmers’ preferences for crop insurance is crucial for designing effective crop insurance policies.
Driving mechanism of attentional bias toward safety of construction workers: case study in China
Authors: Wu Xiang , Li Xiaochuan , Chen Jianwu , Gao Jingqi , Luo Xiaowei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Attentional bias toward safety (ABS) is a positive safety cognitive ability that could encourage individuals to engage in proactive safety behaviors; however, there is a lack of systematic sorting out of the driving mechanism of ABS. This study aims to identify the influencing factors and underlying mechanisms of ABS among construction workers (CWs) in China, thereby enhancing the practice of construction safety management.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory study using the open-ended approach of grounded theory was conducted, including 25-depth interviews with CWs. Based on the interviews’ records, a scale for measuring CWs’ ABS was developed and an empirical study on 554 workers was performed. The ABS scale was validated in conjunction with an ABS modification training experiment published by the authors’ team, and the theoretical model of the driving mechanism of CWs’ ABS was obtained.

Findings

The results showed that the six driving factors of construction workers’ ABS include organizational factors, risk perception, safety awareness, safety investment, job stress and workers’ educational level. This paper also identified the critical approach to improving workers’ ABS as an effective intervention on risk perception. In addition, the ABS scale was found to be effective in measuring the ABS level.

Originality/value

This paper is of importance in reducing the unsafe behaviors of construction workers and preventing and promoting the sustainable development of construction enterprises.
Religious diversity, formal institutional environments and regulatory capital decisions
Authors: Adjimah William Mawuli K. , Boamah Nicholas Addai , Akotey Joseph Oscar , Appiah Kingsley Opoku
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the conditioning effect of formal institutional environments on the relationship between religious diversity and bank capital decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used random effects, generalised least squares regression and the method of moments quantile regression to analyse cross-country variations in bank capital decisions using data from 151 countries between 2000 and 2021.

Findings

The findings show managers take more risks and perceive low regulatory capital as an avenue to success and innovation in more religiously diverse countries. Additionally, institutional quality reverts the negative consequence of religious differences on bank regulatory capital in developing and emerging countries but worsens in developed countries.

Research limitations/implications

The role of deregulation and economic policy uncertainty can be considered for future research on religious diversity and bank capital decision dynamics.

Practical implications

Bank managers may adapt capital ratios to informal institutional factors in individual countries without overlooking the influence of formal institutional indicators.

Originality/value

By advancing studies from an institutional perspective, the authors contribute theoretically to the literature by examining the joint effect of the informal and formal institutional environments on regulatory capital decisions. This will help regulators, supervisors and policymakers better understand the drivers of bank regulatory capital decisions to safeguard the banking systems with the right strategy and policy.
“If well framed”, non-Muslims will visit the mosque: does co-existence matter?
Authors: Mohammed Iddrisu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This two-part explanatory study aims to examine how the framing of messages influences non-Muslims who are unlikely to visit a mosque due to their self-conception, and how this might affect their behavioural change specifically, their intention to visit. This study also tested the impact of co-existence between framed actual image, ideal image and the intention to visit.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a snowball sampling approach, the study first sampled participants without message framing (358 respondents). Using the same respondents, the second phase of the study introduced message framing, resulting in 308 participants. Structural equation modelling was conducted using STATA Version 15.

Findings

The results indicate that a framed actual self-image is a stronger predictor of changes in consumer behaviour and thus leads to the intention to visit. The introduction of co-existence provided significant insights.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to objectively test the effectiveness of a framing technique in mosque tourism and to highlight message framing as a valid marketing strategy that can enhance consumer (tourist) switching behaviour towards the intention to visit. This study adds new insights into the psychological relationships between framed actual image, framed ideal image, co-existence and intention to visit, which has implications for self-congruity theory.
From past to future: exploring two decades of branded apps
Authors: Mostafavi Shiva Sadat , Mavrommatis Alexis
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to offer an integrated framework for branded apps (BAs) that highlights research gaps and points to areas for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a systematic literature review approach, the authors analyzed more than 100 articles published between 2009 and the present. This research used databases such as SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCO and Elsevier’s Science Direct, with a particular focus on articles listed in the 2021 ABS index. The reviewed papers were coded and organized into four categories in terms of themes and concepts: antecedents, mechanisms, outcomes and moderators.

Findings

The study identified four types of antecedents (app benefits, personal traits, brand benefits and others) that influence outcomes via cognitive, affective and a mix of both mechanisms, which is termed multipaths. The authors classified outcomes into five areas (financial gains; app benefits; brand benefits; customer benefits; and others). Moderators were grouped into four types (customer individuality; app features; brand characteristics; and others). The authors concluded by recommending promising directions for future research. Specifically, the authors suggested an inverted U-shaped relationship between escapism and customer responses to BAs.

Originality/value

This paper focused exclusively on BAs, differentiating them from other mobile apps. The authors integrated nearly 100+ studies conducted over two decades. This integrated model serves as a guiding tool for understanding the past, present and future of BAs.
Building career adaptability through enterprise social media use
Authors: Feng Jiaojiao , Zhan Leyan , Wang Changyu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In the digital workplace, enterprise social media (ESM) are widely used for work and social purposes, which may afford employees resources to build their career adaptability. However, limited theoretical evidence is about how to build career adaptability through different ESM uses (work-oriented ESM use and socialization-oriented ESM use). This study thus aims to enrich the theoretical understanding of the relationship between different ESM uses and career adaptability by examining the different mediating mechanisms of role clarity and psychological closeness and the moderating effect of mindfulness based on affordance theory.

Design/methodology/approach

SPSS PROCESS and AMOS were used to analyze the data collected from 209 full-time employees at three-time points.

Findings

Our results showed that work-oriented ESM use exerts a positive effect on employees’ career adaptability via role clarity, while socialization-oriented ESM use has a positive effect on employees’ career adaptability via psychological closeness. Mindfulness strengthens the positive effect of work-oriented ESM use on career adaptability via role clarity.

Practical implications

Managers need to notice that both work-oriented and socialization-oriented ESM use can benefit employees, but there are different effecting mechanisms of ESM use for work and social purposes, and organizations should keep cultivating the mindfulness of employees.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the ESM literature by investigating two different influencing mechanisms of ESM uses on employees’ career adaptability and the moderating effects of mindfulness.
Analyzing the barriers to blockchain adoption in educational sectors: a comprehensive literature review using the Technology-Organizational-Environment (TOE) framework
Authors: Isiaku Labaran , Adalier Ahmet
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the challenges associated with the integration and implementation of blockchain technology in the education sector. The primary objective is to identify and categorize these challenges using the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, shedding light on the technological, organizational and environmental factors that influence the adoption of blockchain solutions in educational settings.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review was conducted across multiple databases including Science Direct, Web of Science, Springer, IEEE Xplore and MDPI. The selected articles were analyzed based on the TOE framework to categorize challenges from the technological, organizational and environmental perspectives. The methodology involves a systematic search, analysis and synthesis of relevant articles to provide an in-depth understanding of the challenges hindering blockchain adoption in education.

Findings

This review revealed a predominant focus on technological challenges, emphasizing scalability issues, integration complexities, security and privacy concerns and data immutability. However, there is a notable research gap in the exploration of organizational and environmental challenges. The scarcity of studies addressing these perspectives may impact acceptance and resistance to blockchain adoption in educational settings.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by systematically categorizing and analyzing the challenges associated with blockchain implementation in education using the TOE framework. It identifies the need for further research on organizational and environmental aspects, addressing a significant gap in the current scholarship on blockchain adoption in educational institutions.
Digital technologies in business education: a hybrid literature review from the Web of Science database
Authors: Masa’deh Ra’ed , AlQudah Mohammad Zakaria , Shatnawi Ahmad , Samara Husni , Ghasawneh Dafar , Al_Majali Rehan Tareq , Al-Rahamneh Abdelmajid
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to consolidate existing research on digital technology in business education, focusing on adoption determinants, theoretical frameworks and implementation challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

A hybrid literature review was conducted. The first phase involved a keyword co-occurrence analysis of 254 Association of Business Schools-ranked journal articles from the Web of Science database to identify key research themes. To deepen the analysis, the second phase included a content analysis of the 24 most globally cited articles, each with a minimum of 65 total global citations.

Findings

The review reveals that studies primarily focus on factors influencing digital technology adoption, including institutional support, perceived usefulness and ease of use. Researchers frequently cite theoretical models such as the technology acceptance model and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. Identified challenges include concerns over technology effectiveness, resistance to change and the influence of cultural and generational differences on technology use.

Practical implications

The findings guide educators and policymakers in formulating strategies for effective technology adoption, emphasizing alignment with educational goals and addressing cultural barriers.

Social implications

Understanding generational and cultural impacts enables the creation of inclusive digital education strategies that cater to diverse student needs.

Originality/value

This study synthesizes fragmented literature, offering new insights into the integration of digital technologies in business education.
Gaining access: a cautionary tale from a Ph.D. student
Authors: Villanueva Cristian E. , Angeles Adrianela , Revilla Luz Cecilia , Villanueva Diana L.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This article has two main objectives: first, to analyze a novice’s researcher’s journey in overcoming the challenges of one of the most persistent obstacles in qualitative research – gaining access through gatekeepers – to obtain a nuanced understanding of this phenomenon; and second, to emphasize the practical value of autoethnography in capturing both individual and social dimensions of this process, enabling researchers to reflect on their fieldwork experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs an autoethnographic approach grounded in sensemaking and reflexivity, drawing on the personal life experiences of a researcher who collected data for his dissertation involving informal entrepreneurs (IEs).

Findings

This research reveals that gaining access is not a straightforward process but rather an ongoing effort in which rapport, trust and reciprocity – along with persistent negotiations and a bit of luck – contribute to its success. Additionally, the innovative autoethnographic approach helps to adopt new lenses and perspectives on the personal, interpersonal and contextual influences that motivate the actions of both the researcher and the gatekeeper.

Originality/value

This study is valuable for novice researchers and the research practice itself, as it uncovers hidden dynamics and risks associated with accessing hard-to-reach populations. It enriches the literature in organization and management studies by providing a unique framework for navigating this complex process. Furthermore, it highlights the applications, strengths and challenges of the autoethnographic method.
Educational video assistance in shared decision‐making for psoriasis: Effectiveness and outcomes
Authors: Liu Sheng‐Wen , Wu Shou En , Chen Yi‐Hsien , Soong Chen‐Yeu , Chiang Chien‐Ping , Wang Wei‐Ming , Hung Chih‐Tsung
Published: November 2024

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with significant comorbidities that impact quality of life. Effective patient engagement through shared decision‐making (SDM) is crucial for optimal management. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adding clinician‐created educational videos in enhancing patient knowledge and engagement during SDM for psoriasis treatment. Forty‐eight patients with moderate to severe psoriasis participated in this single‐center study. After reading an educational pamphlet, patients took a knowledge assessment test. Subsequently, they watched an educational video and completed a second test using the same questions. Feedback questionnaires on the video and the SDM process were also administered. Paired t tests revealed that postpamphlet plus video test scores (mean ± SD: 86.25 ± 17.58) were significantly higher than postpamphlet scores (72.08 ± 26.33, p < 0.0001). Older patients, in particular, showed greater improvement in comprehension after watching the video. Descriptive analysis of the feedback questionnaire on the video indicated strong agreement (average score: 4.240 ± 0.816 on a five‐point Likert scale) regarding its greater effectiveness compared with the pamphlet in aiding SDM. Patients also rated the video‐assisted SDM process positively (average score: 4.521 ± 0.5443 on a five‐point Likert scale), highlighting increased trust and improved communication with healthcare providers. These findings underscore the value of video‐assisted SDM in patient education and decision‐making processes, potentially improving treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction in dermatologic care.
Maternal effect senescence and caloric restriction interact to affect fitness through changes in life history timing
Authors: Hernández Christina M. , van Daalen Silke F. , Liguori Alyssa , Neubert Michael G. , Caswell Hal , Gribble Kristin E.
Published: November 2024

Environmental factors and individual attributes, and their interactions, impact survival, growth and reproduction of an individual throughout its life. In the clonal rotifer Brachionus, low food conditions delay reproduction and extend lifespan. This species also exhibits maternal effect senescence; the offspring of older mothers have lower survival and reproductive output. In this paper, we explored the population consequences of the individual‐level interaction of maternal age and low food availability.

We built matrix population models for both ad libitum and low food treatments, in which individuals are classified both by their age and maternal age. Low food conditions reduced population growth rate () and shifted the population structure to older maternal ages, but did not detectably impact individual lifetime reproductive output.

We analysed hypothetical scenarios in which reduced fertility or survival led to approximately stationary populations that maintained the shape of the difference in demographic rates between the ad libitum and low food treatments. When fertility was reduced, the populations were more evenly distributed across ages and maternal ages, while the lower‐survival models showed an increased concentration of individuals in the youngest ages and maternal ages.

Using life table response experiment analyses, we compared populations grown under ad libitum and low food conditions in scenarios representing laboratory conditions, reduced fertility and reduced survival. In the laboratory scenario, the reduction in population growth rate under low food conditions is primarily due to decreased fertility in early life. In the lower‐fertility scenario, contributions from differences in fertility and survival are more similar, and show trade‐offs across both ages and maternal ages. In the lower‐survival scenario, the contributions from decreased fertility in early life again dominate the difference in .

These results demonstrate that processes that potentially benefit individuals (e.g. lifespan extension) may actually reduce fitness and population growth because of links with other demographic changes (e.g. delayed reproduction). Because the interactions of maternal age and low food availability depend on the population structure, the fitness consequences of an environmental change can only be fully understood through analysis that takes into account the entire life cycle.
FROM GLOBALIZING TAIPEI TO LEARNING AMSTERDAM: Referencing as a Politicizing Strategy for Urban Development in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yi‐Ling , Rietdijk Chantalle Elisabeth
Published: November 2024

This article examines the transformation of urban referencing in Taipei City after democratization, using policy mobility theories and case study research methods to ‘follow policy changes’ over three decades. It argues that geopolitical considerations in the 1990s prompted Taipei to adopt the global city discourse as a political strategy, subsequently leading to the implementation of neoliberal urban policies. These policies encouraged property‐led development and housing speculation, exacerbating housing affordability issues. Amidst these challenges, a progressive bottom‐up social housing movement emerged in 2010, drawing inspiration from the Dutch model. However, this process of policy mobility is selective, with Amsterdam serving more as an inspirational benchmark than a direct model for replication. Neoliberalism hinders both Dutch and Taiwanese social housing policies from achieving housing justice. This case study of Taiwan's post‐democratization urban development will also contribute to the literature on urban developmentalism.
Does dairy cooperative membership improve food and nutrition security among rural farmers? A micro‐perspective from Zambia
Authors: Ng'ombe John N. , Kalinda Thomson H. , Addai Kwabena Nyarko , Chibebe Cynthia
Published: November 2024

Although research on the impacts of agricultural cooperatives is growing, studies on the effects of dairy cooperative membership on food security in developing countries remain scarce. This article follows the same line of inquiry to determine the impact of dairy cooperative membership on food and nutrition security (household dietary diversity score and food insecurity experience score) using data from 515 rural dairy farmers in Zambia. To account for selection bias issues, we use the endogenous switching Poisson regression model supplemented with the Poisson regression with endogenous treatment and machine learning techniques. Results indicate that age, education, dairy farming experience and participation in seminars on cooperatives positively influence dairy cooperative membership. Conversely, higher milk prices at collection centres are associated with a decreased likelihood of cooperative membership. We find that dairy cooperative membership increases dietary diversity and food security for a dairy farmer and dairy cooperative members as well as the non‐members if they joined dairy cooperatives. Further, dairy cooperative membership increases food and nutrition security for dairy farmers who join cooperatives because they are nearby. Collectively, our results support increased dairy cooperative development in rural areas to improve food and nutrition security of rural dwellers in developing countries.
Papillary renal cell carcinoma revisited: impact of the World Health Organization 2022 classification on prognostication
Authors: Sung Joung Won , Lee Yong Il , Kim Younjuong , Song Cheryn , Park Ja‐Min , Yoon Sun Young , Ahn Bokyung , Cho Yong Mee
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To investigate the impact of the revised papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC) classification and evaluate its validity with regard to oncological outcome stratification.

Patients and Methods

Identifying 527 patients with PRCC who underwent surgical resection from 1995 to 2022, a tissue microarray was constructed for immunohistochemical and molecular characterisation. Re‐classification according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2022 criteria and nuclear grading according to the WHO/International Society of Urological Pathologists criteria were done. In addition to the revised subtype, alleged clinicopathological prognosticators were analysed with respect to progression‐free (PFS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS).

Results

Initially, 247 (46.9%) cases were Type 1, 234 (44.4%) were Type 2, and 46 (8.7%) were papillary not‐otherwise‐specified. According to the revised criteria, 29.9% of Type 1 and 57.7% of Type 2 PRCC cases were re‐classified. Re‐classified from Type 1 included more indolent tumours while from Type 2 PRCC many molecularly defined tumours were newly identified. After re‐classification, still 373 tumours remained with distinct histomorphological features of Type 1 (254 [70%]) and Type 2 (119 [42.2%]) PRCC. Furthermore, significant differences in survival outcomes were obtained when the revised criteria was used particularly for tumours of ≤4 cm. For a median (interquartile range) follow‐up of 79 (38.2–132.8) months, the 5‐year PFS was 97% for Type 1, 80% for Type 2, 75% for transcription factor for immunoglobulin heavy‐chain enhancer 3 (TFE3)‐rearranged, and 43.5% for fumarate hydratase‐deficient RCC. No disease progression was observed in patients with papillary renal neoplasm with reverse polarity.

Conclusion

The revised WHO 2022 classification enhanced prognostic accuracy for PRCC particularly for small tumours. Retaining previous subtypes may confer further clinical as well as prognostic value.
Semantic Content in Face Representation: Essential for Proficient Recognition of Unfamiliar Faces by Good Recognizers
Authors: Jiang Tong , Zhou Guomei
Published: November 2024

Face recognition is adapted to achieve goals of social interactions, which rely on further processing of the semantic information of faces, beyond visual computations. Here, we explored the semantic content of face representation apart from visual component, and tested their relations to face recognition performance. Specifically, we propose that enhanced visual or semantic coding could underlie the advantage of familiar over unfamiliar faces recognition, as well as the superior recognition of skilled face recognizers. We asked participants to freely describe familiar/unfamiliar faces using words or phrases, and converted these descriptions into semantic vectors. Face semantics were transformed into quantifiable face vectors by aggregating these word/phrase vectors. We also extracted visual features from a deep convolutional neural network and obtained the visual representation of familiar/unfamiliar faces. Semantic and visual representations were used to predict perceptual representation generated from a behavior rating task separately in different groups (bad/good face recognizers in familiar‐face/unfamiliar‐face conditions). Comparisons revealed that although long‐term memory facilitated visual feature extraction for familiar faces compared to unfamiliar faces, good recognizers compensated for this disparity by incorporating more semantic information for unfamiliar faces, a strategy not observed in bad recognizers. This study highlights the significance of semantics in recognizing unfamiliar faces.
The Spectrum of Cutaneous Granulomatous Inflammation and Detection of Rubella Virus in Skin Biopsies of Patients With Common Variable Immune Deficiency
Authors: King Anne L. , Johnson Emma F. , Alavi Afsaneh , Agrawal Shruti , Sokumbi Olayemi , Perelygina Ludmila , Yorke Laura , Beard Suzanne , Wieland Carilyn N.
Published: November 2024

Background

There is a known association between common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and granulomas in multiple organ systems, including the skin, lung, liver, and spleen. Rubella virus has also been detected within cutaneous granulomas in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts. We present a retrospective case series of patients with CVID and granulomatous skin disease and describe the spectrum of clinical and histopathologic features, including the status of rubella virus in the cutaneous granulomas.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and histopathological characteristics of patients diagnosed with CVID at our institution, with cutaneous findings and skin biopsies available for review between 1990 and 2023, demonstrating granulomatous inflammation.

Results

Eight patients met the inclusion criteria. The most common histopathologic pattern was palisaded granulomatous inflammation, seen in five of eight cases. Three cases showed strictly sarcoidal granulomas. Background inflammation was peri‐granulomatous (8/8) and the predominant background inflammatory cell type was lymphocytic (6/8). Rubella virus testing was performed for seven of eight cases and found to be positive in one case.

Conclusion

Cutaneous granulomatous disease in CVID can present with a spectrum of clinical morphologies, granulomatous patterns, and variable rubella virus persistence. Dermatopathologists should be aware of the spectrum of findings when considering cutaneous CVID–related granulomatous disease in the differential diagnosis.
Does mobile banking matter for the adoption of modern agricultural technology? Evidence from Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kouandou Arouna , Laajimi Rawaa
Published: November 2024

Motivation

The adoption of yield‐enhancing agricultural inputs can improve rural livelihoods. Lack of savings is widely believed to be one of the main barriers to the adoption of agricultural technology in sub‐Saharan Africa. That may be changing, as the spread of mobile phones in many African countries has facilitated access to new financial technologies, such as mobile money and mobile banking.

Purpose

How does access to mobile banking affect the adoption of yield‐enhancing inputs in Côte d'Ivoire? In particular, how does mobile banking affect the uptake of inorganic fertilizers and phytosanitary products to protect crops against weeds, pests, and diseases?

Approach and methods

Drawing on data from the Harmonized Survey on Household Living Conditions (Enquête Harmonisée sur les Conditions de Vie des Ménages, EHCVM 2018–2019) for Côte d'Ivoire, we use regression analysis to estimate the factors affecting adoption.

The decision to have a mobile bank account may be endogenous, so we use instrumental variables to address potential bias.

Findings

Having a mobile bank account is associated with a 14% greater likelihood of investing in modern agricultural inputs. The impact is particularly high for investments in chemical or inorganic fertilizers, where having a mobile account makes adoption 30% more likely.

Policy implications

Many governments in sub‐Saharan Africa rely heavily on costly subsidies to encourage the adoption of improved farm technologies. Access to mobile banking offers a cheaper way to promote the adoption of technology.

The potential of mobile banking to serve as an effective savings tool and transform the lives of smallholder farmers will depend on government policy. While the government of Côte d'Ivoire has made greater efforts than its neighbours to increase the availability of mobile banking technology, much remains to be done.
White‐Light Imaging and Image‐Enhanced Endoscopy With Magnifying Endoscopy for the Optical Diagnosis of Superficial Nonampullary Duodenal Epithelial Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yoshida Masao , Toya Yosuke , Notsu Akifumi , Kakushima Naomi , Kato Motohiko , Yahagi Naohisa ,   on the behalf of Endoscopic Clinical Practice Guideline Committee of the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society for Non‐ampullary Duodenal Epithelial Tumors
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

Optical diagnosis of superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors using white‐light imaging (WLI) and/or narrow‐band imaging with magnifying endoscopy (NBI‐ME) is used to guide the treatment strategy and avoid biopsy‐induced fibrosis. However, the effectiveness of this approach has not been elucidated. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis aiming to investigate the diagnostic yield between Vienna classification category 3 (VCL C3) and categories 4 or 5 (VCL C4/C5) using biopsy, WLI, NBI‐ME, and WLI + NBI‐ME.

Methods

A literature search identified studies on the diagnosis of superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors using biopsy, WLI, or NBI‐ME. A bivariate random‐effects model was utilized to analyze the summary estimates of sensitivity and specificity, as well as the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curves for diagnosing VCL C4/C5.

Results

Ultimately, 13 studies were included in the meta‐analysis. For the diagnosis of VCL C4/C5, summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve were for biopsy 47% (95% confidence interval: 37–58), 86% (79–91), and 0.745; for WLI 80% (65–89), 80% (70–87), and 0.859; for NBI‐ME were 72% (61–81), 76% (68–85), and 0.811; and for WLI + NBI‐ME 88% (67–96), 87% (51–98), and 0.929, respectively.

Conclusions

WLI, NBI‐ME, and WLI + NBI‐ME showed high values for sensitivity and area under the curve. Biopsies can be replaced by WLI, NBI‐ME, and WLI + NBI‐ME for the preoperative diagnosis of superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors. However, further accumulation of research findings is needed.
Structural Aesthetic Treatment With the Hyaluronic Acid Filler VYC‐25L: Global Expert Considerations for Safe and Effective Long‐Term Outcomes
Authors: Bertossi Dario , Denkova Radina , Hoo Anna Jen Shi , Loh David , Murdoch Marshall , Shturman Sirota Isaac , Urdiales‐Gálvez Fernando , de Aguiar Menezes Marcel Vinícius , de la Guardia Carola
Published: November 2024

Background

VYC‐25L is a robust, structural hyaluronic acid (HA) filler designed for facial volumizing, lifting, and contouring. It was first approved in 2019.

Methods

A group of doctors with various specialties, who have used VYC‐25L extensively since it first became available in their countries (3–5 years), share clinical experience and guidance on optimal use.

Results

VYC‐25L has a unique rheological and physicochemical profile that provides elevated lift capacity and enhanced projection, significant moldability immediately after injection, high levels of tissue integration, reversibility with hyaluronidase, and a long duration of clinical effects—typically lasting at least 24 months. The properties of VYC‐25L have created new possibilities for nonsurgical facial medical aesthetics. However, as with any novel product, it is important that injectors recognize how best to use it for the benefit of patients. When first utilizing VYC‐25L, it is advisable to start with the chin and jawline to gain familiarity with the gel characteristics before moving into other facial areas, and to consider splitting treatment over two or more sessions. Attention must also be given to injection volume, with less product typically required with VYC‐25L compared to other fillers with similar indications. Key principles of good practice should be followed, including appropriate patient selection and pretreatment education, suitable choice of injection device and plane, aseptic technique, slow and careful administration method, and sufficient posttreatment follow‐up.

Conclusions

By adhering to these principles, VYC‐25L can produce natural‐looking and highly durable outcomes without substantial safety concerns.