bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconsidering the digital divide: an analytical framework from access to appropriation
Authors: Loh Yvonne Ai-Chi , Chib Arul
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper presents a framework to measure the digital divide by considering a more comprehensive index of information and communication technology (ICT) predictors. The authors also address the conceptual and methodological problems in the digital divide field, given that its focus has been shifted from technological access to higher-order divides over the years. The proposed framework is hypothesized and tested in the context of unemployed and underemployed residents in Singapore.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a quantitative survey, 302 unemployed and underemployed workers were asked what ICT “access”, “usage” and “appropriation” meant to them. Factor analyses were deployed to identify the underlying, granular dimensions of ICT access, usage and appropriation.

Findings

The factor analyses revealed an interesting breakdown of the main factors of ICT access, usage and appropriation. The authors found that one's purpose for which technology is accessed, used and appropriated determines how each of the levels of ICT assets is defined. Thus, the authors propose new operational definitions for ICT access, usage and appropriation based on the analyses.

Originality/value

This study aims to provide a more robust measure of the digital divide from access, capabilities to outcomes. The authors hope that this framework, besides complementing current digital divide models, can be applied to different types of participants.
Internal control implementation in higher education institutions: determinants, obstacles and contributions toward governance practices and fraud mitigation
Authors: Sofyani Hafiez , Abu Hasan Haslida , Saleh Zakiah
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate internal control (IC) implementation in higher education institutions (HEIs). This study also explores determinants, obstacles and contributions of IC implementation within HEIs.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a qualitative research method by conducting semi-structured interviews with internal auditors of HEIs.

Findings

This study found a difference of IC among all HEIs in terms of design. IC implementation is perceived to have a positive contribution to accountability enhancement and fraud mitigation. Several determinants and obstacles faced by HEIs in implementing IC are presented in the paper.

Practical implications

The IC has to be operated effectively to achieve its benefit. However, not all HEIs implement IC properly.

Originality/value

This paper is a pioneer study that raises IC implementation in HEIs and its role in governance practices and corruption mitigation.
New experiences in nature areas: architecture as a tool to stimulate transformative experiences among visitors in nature areas?
Authors: Wielenga Ben
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share architecture as a tool that is increasingly implemented in nature areas and its potential for stimulating transformative experiences among visitors in nature-based tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on three examples of architecture in nature, the value of architecture to nature-based tourism is presented.

Findings

It was found that architecture in nature has a wide range of benefits for nature-based tourism and may form a catalyst for gaining transformative experiences in the examples presented.

Originality/value

The findings presented in this paper touch upon a new way of stimulating transformative experiences among visitors in nature-based tourism by implementing architecture.
The role of human resource professionals (HRPs) in managing workplace bullying: perspectives from HRPs and employee representatives in Australia
Authors: Djurkovic Nikola , McCormack Darcy , Hoel Helge , Salin Denise
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the perspectives of human resource professionals (HRPs) and employee representatives (ERs) on the role of HRPs in managing workplace bullying.

Design/methodology/approach

Individual interviews were conducted with 12 HRPs and five ERs from a wide range of industries. Interview questions were open-ended and sought to gain insight on the views of the individual interviewees.

Findings

The findings address the role of HRPs in bullying scenarios and in the prevention of bullying. Regarding the role of HRPs in bullying, the responses of the participants suggest confusion and ambiguity, with a variety of roles being described ranging from a support-based role through to a protector of management. The participants also noted the importance of the HRP task of policy development, while a distrust of HRPs in bullying scenarios was mentioned. Regarding the effective management and prevention of bullying, the findings demonstrate that HRPs are viewed as having a central role through their particular responsibilities of creating and nurturing a positive organisational culture, as well as through engaging employees in the development of anti-bullying policies.

Practical implications

HRPs believe that they can contribute significantly to reducing workplace bullying through organisational culture (including educating staff and as role models of behaviour) and by engaging staff in the design of anti-bullying policies.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature on workplace bullying by examining within the Australian context the perspectives of HRPs and ERs on how HRPs can prevent and manage workplace bullying.
Enabling design characteristics and budget usefulness
Authors: Mucci Daniel Magalhães , Frezatti Fábio , Bido Diógenes de Souza
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of budgeting design characteristics on perceived budgeting usefulness, based on the enabling-coercive framework.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a survey in one large publicly-listed Brazilian company that operates in the electric utility industry. The sample comprises 75 middle managers from different areas of this organization. This study uses structural equation modeling as the data analysis method.

Findings

The results indicate that internal and global transparencies determine middle managers’ perceptions of budgeting usefulness, while no relationship was found for repair capacity and flexibility characteristics. This paper shows that managers, when provided with global and internal transparencies and independently of their level discretion regarding target revisions or the reallocation of resources, perceive budgeting systems as being useful for decision-facilitating and decision-influencing roles.

Practical implications

The findings might be relevant for budgeting professionals to review or design the budgeting system in terms of dribbling potential flaws and increasing its use in the organization.

Originality/value

The study explores the multidimensionality of the enabling-coercive budgeting design construct. This study provides a theoretical contribution to the literature by showing that budget alignment, integration, learning and information sharing are relevant such that an organization could improve the assertiveness using budgeting systems. Besides, this paper provides an opposing view about the supposed relation between flexible budgeting design and budgeting usefulness. Frequently, some management directions are offered by the literature and no guarantee is provided in terms of the connection between the adoption and the usefulness of those mechanisms. Therefore, the findings shed more light on the practical developments in budgeting.
Choice of marketing outlets among smallholder cowpea farmers in Ghana
Authors: Kotey Millicent Adei , Adams Faizal , Nimoh Fred , Osei Mensah James , Etuah Seth , Edwin Coleman
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To help address the problem of imperfections in the performance of cowpea markets in Ghana, the study sought to understand the costs and benefits associated with different market outlets and factors influencing farmers' choice of these outlets.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-stage sampling technique was adopted to collect data from 300 cowpea farmers through purposive sampling of communities and simple random selection at the farmer level in Ejura Sekyedumasi municipality of Ghana. Analytical methods including profitability measures such as gross margin, net margin, return on investment and multinomial logistic (MNL) regression model were used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results showed that production and marketing of cowpea is profitable with farmers who trade in wholesale markets recording the highest gross margin (Gh₵1245.85 (US$227.76)), net margin (Gh₵1029.37 (US$188.18)) and return on investment (ROI) of 63%. Important nonfarm-related factors including household size, farming experience, membership of farmer-based organization and extension contact were found to significantly influence the choice of marketing outlets in the study area. In addition, market attributes such as produce selling price, volume of cowpea sold and post-harvest value addition were also key determinants of cowpea market outlet choices.

Practical implications

The results of the study are vital to agricultural administrators in devising efficient cowpea market systems for smallholder farmers in Ghana. Likewise, the study provides important information to smallholder farmers in the choice of market outlets that maximizes their returns.

Originality/value

Previous studies on marketing of cowpea in Ghana emphasized on direct retail or consumer marketing to maximize farmers' returns. Meanwhile, there are claims to suggest that the sale of cowpea grains in the country are carried out through varied market outlets which come with differing costs and benefits implications for smallholder farmers. Therefore, the present study comprehensively compared associated costs and benefits in all available cowpea market outlets so as to settle the confusion surrounding most profitable and efficient marketing channel for smallholder farmers toward poverty reduction.
Learning factories and living labs projects for sustainable educational development
Authors: Turi Jamshid Ali , Imtiaz Ali , Sorooshain Shahryar
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This technical note aimed to assess critically the need of the learning factories and living labs for sustainable educational and social development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study implied systematic research review and opinions of the expert to critically analyze the meaning and application of learning factory and living labs for social and educational development.

Findings

The study concluded that there is an urgent need for the collaboration among the entire stakeholder for establishing learning factory and living labs for social and educational development.

Originality/value

The technical study provides a unique perspective to educational and social development. It added to the traditional learning system by enlarging the venue of learning through stabling learning factories and living labs and insisted the higher educational institutions (HEIs) to open their door for general public for the inclusive development at national and international horizons.
Improving assessments of data‐limited populations using life‐history theory
Authors: Horswill Cat , Manica Andrea , Daunt Francis , Newell Mark , Wanless Sarah , Wood Matthew , Matthiopoulos Jason
Published: March 2021

Predicting how populations may respond to climate change and anthropogenic pressures requires detailed knowledge of demographic traits, such as survival and reproduction. However, the availability of these data varies greatly across space and taxa. Therefore, it is common practice to conduct population assessments by filling in missing values from surrogate species or other populations of the same species. Using these independent surrogate values concurrently with observed data neglects the life‐history trade‐offs that connect the different aspects of a population's demography. Consequently, this approach introduces biases that could ultimately lead to erroneous management decisions.

We use a Bayesian hierarchical framework to combine fragmented multi‐population data with established life‐history theory and reconstruct population‐specific demographic data across a substantial part of a species breeding range. We apply our analysis to a long‐lived colonial species, the black‐legged kittiwakeRissa tridactyla, that is classified as globally Vulnerable and is highly threatened by increasing anthropogenic pressures, including offshore renewable energy development. We then use a projection analysis to examine how the reconstructed demographic parameters may improve population assessments, compared to models that combine observed data with independent surrogate values.

Demographic parameters reconstructed using a hierarchical framework can be utilised in a range of population modelling approaches. They can also be used as reference estimates to assess whether independent surrogate values are likely to over or underestimate missing demographic parameters. We show that surrogate values from independent sources are often used to fill in missing parameters that have large potential demographic impact, and that resulting biases are driven in unpredictable directions thus precluding assessments from being consistently precautionary.

Synthesis and applications. Our study dramatically increases the spatial coverage of population‐specific demographic data for black‐legged kittiwakes. The reconstructed demographic parameters presented can also be used immediately to reduce uncertainty in the consenting process for offshore wind development in the United Kingdom and Ireland. More broadly, we show that the reconstruction approach used here provides a new avenue for improving evidence‐based management and policy action for animal and plant populations with fragmented and error prone demographic data.
Dynamics of Mental Health and Healthcare Use among Children and Young Adults
Authors: Butterworth Peter , de  New Sonja C. , Schilling Chris , Saxby Karinna , Petrie Dennis , Wong Clement
Published: March 2021

Despite the high rates of mental disorder in adolescents and young adults, treatment utilisation is low. Using Australian longitudinal administrative and survey data, we show an increasing proportion of young people are accessing nervous system scripts as they age. Younger cohorts have increasingly accessed these scripts earlier; usage is generally higher among disadvantaged groups and in regions with better mental health service access. Less than half of all young adults facing very high psychological distress in 2018 had recently accessed mental health care. Instead of professional help, young people turn to friends and family for help with personal and emotional problems.
Women's International Thought in the Twentieth‐Century Anglo‐American Academy: Autobiographical Reflection, Oral History and Scholarly Habitus
Authors: C. Dunstan Sarah
Published: March 2021

Methodologies of textual and linguistic analysis have long held sway in Anglo‐American practices of intellectual history. Such approaches tend to decouple the ideas being traced from the human subject, or scholar, producing the thought. Taking the lead from the rich theorising work done in feminist, gender, race and cultural histories, this article asks what changes in our understanding of intellectual histories of international thought when we connect the lived and bodily realities of the human subjects producing the ideas to the ideas themselves. In so doing, the article makes a case for the importance of fleshing out what the author calls ‘scholarly habitus’ and suggests the potential utility of oral history as a methodology for reconstructing ‘scholarly habitus’. The article will draw upon an oral history archive comprised of twenty interviews conducted with senior women International Relations scholars from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom to flesh out this argument. The article argues that oral history, as a medium for autobiographical practice, can reveal aspects of how gender, race and class shaped the scholarly practice and career trajectories of these women, as well as shed light on the historical dynamics of the discipline of International Relations as a whole.
Reduction of T‐2 and HT‐2 mycotoxins by atmospheric cold plasma and its impact on quality changes and germination of wheat grains
Authors: Iqdiam Basheer M. , Feizollahi Ehsan , Arif Muhammad Faisal , Jeganathan Brasathe , Vasanthan Thava , Thilakarathna Malinda S. , Roopesh M. S.
Published: March 2021

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is susceptible to mycotoxin contamination, which can result in significant health risks and economic losses. This research examined the ability of air atmospheric cold plasma (air‐ACP) treatment to reduce pure and spiked T‐2 and HT‐2 mycotoxins’ concentration on wheat grains. This study also evaluated the effect of ACP treatment using different gases on wheat grain germination parameters. The T‐2 and HT‐2 mycotoxin solutions applied on round cover‐glass were placed on microscopy slides and wheat grains (0.5 g) were individually spiked with T‐2 and HT‐2 on their surfaces. Samples were then dried at room temperature (∼24 °C) and treated by air‐ACP for 1 to 10 min. Ten minutes of air‐ACP treatment significantly reduced pure T‐2 and HT‐2 concentrations by 63.63% and 51.5%, respectively. For mycotoxin spiked on wheat grains, 10 min air‐ACP treatment significantly decreased T‐2 and HT‐2 concentrations up to 79.8% and 70.4%, respectively. No significant change in the measured quality and color parameters was observed in the ACP‐treated samples. Wheat grain germination parameters were not significantly different, when treated with ACP using different gases. Air‐ACP treatment and ACP treatment using 80% nitrogen + 20% oxygen improved the germination of wheat grains by 10% and 6%, respectively. This study demonstrated that ACP is an innovative technology with the potential to improve the safety of wheat grains by reducing T‐2/HT‐2 mycotoxins with an additional advantage of improving their germination.

Practical Application

Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) technology has a huge potential to degrade mycotoxins in food grains. This study evaluated the efficacy of ACP to reduce two major mycotoxins (T‐2 and HT‐2 toxins) in wheat grains. The results of this study will help to develop and scale‐up the ACP technology for mycotoxin degradation in grains.
Integrating eDNA metabarcoding and simultaneous underwater visual surveys to describe complex fish communities in a marine biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Valdivia‐Carrillo Tania , Rocha‐Olivares Axayácatl , Reyes‐Bonilla Héctor , Domínguez‐Contreras José Francisco , Munguia‐Vega Adrian
Published: March 2021

Marine biodiversity can be surveyed using underwater visual censuses and recently with eDNA metabarcoding. Although a promising tool, eDNA studies have shown contrasting results related to its detection scale and the number of species identified compared to other survey methods. Also, its accuracy relies on complete reference databases used for taxonomic assignment and, as other survey methods, species detection may show false‐negative and false‐positive errors. Here, we compared results from underwater visual censuses and simultaneous eDNA metabarcoding fish surveys in terms of observed species and community composition. We also assess the effect of a custom reference database in the taxonomic assignment, and evaluate occupancy, capture and detection probabilities, as well as error rates of eDNA survey data. We amplified a 12S rRNA fish barcode from 24 sampling sites in the gulf of California. More species were detected with eDNA metabarcoding than with UVC. Because each survey method largely detected different sets of species, the combined approach doubled the number of species registered. Both survey methods recovered a known biodiversity gradient and a biogeographic break, but eDNA captured diversity over a broader geographic and bathymetric scale. Furthermore, the use of a modest‐sized custom reference database significantly increased taxonomic assignment. In a subset of species, occupancy models revealed eDNA surveys provided similar or higher detection probabilities compared to UVC. The occupancy value of each species had a large influence on eDNA detectability, and in the false positive and negative error. Overall, these results highlight the potential of eDNA metabarcoding in complementing other established ecological methods for studies of marine fishes.
Momentum, Reversals, and Business Cycle Turning Points
Authors: Min Byoung‐Kyu , Xiao Yuchao
Published: March 2021

We study time variation in the profitabilities of medium‐term momentum and long‐term reversals trading strategies over the business cycle. We find reliable evidence that turning points in the business cycle are critically important in determining momentum and reversals profits. Specifically, momentum profits at business cycle peaks are higher than at business cycle troughs. The opposite pattern is found for reversals profits. Business cycle peaks show lower reversals profits than at troughs. The results indicate that momentum profits are not simply procyclical, but instead exhibit an intriguing and complex non‐linear relation with macroeconomic conditions. We also find that the loser stocks are the primary determinant of time variation in momentum and reversals profitabilities across business cycles. Finally, our results remain robust after controlling for market state, cross‐sectional return dispersion, and investor sentiment. Taken together, our findings pose challenges to existing theories of the momentum and reversals effects.
Comparison of irrigant activation devices and conventional needle irrigation on smear layer and debris removal in curved canals. (Smear layer removal from irrigant activation using SEM)
Authors: Andreani Yasmina , Gad Benjamin Thomas , Cocks Thomas Charles , Harrison Jonathan , Keresztes Mark Edward , Pomfret James Kennan , Rees Evan Benjamin , Ma Duoduo , Baloun Brett Lindsay , Rahimi Mehdi
Published: March 2021

Aim

To compare the effectiveness of smear layer and debris removal in the final rinse of curved canals of permanent molars using different commercially available irrigant activation devices.

Methods

The mesial roots of 74 extracted maxillary and mandibular molars were instrumented using the Mtwo nickel–titanium rotary system (VDW GmbH, Munich, Germany). They were then randomly assigned to one of three groups, varying in their final rinse protocol. Group 1 (n = 15) – conventional needle irrigation with 4% NaOCl; Group 2 (n = 19) – EndoActivator® (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK, USA) with 4% NaOCl; Group 3 (n = 17) – XP‐endo® Finisher (FKG Dentaire SA, La Chaux‐de‐Fonds, Switzerland) with 4% NaOCl. After the final rinse, all canals were flushed with 1 mL 15% EDTA for 60 s and then flushed with saline. The roots were split longitudinally and prepared for scanning electron microscope imaging. ImageJ for Windows was utilised to assess the images for smear layer removal, while two blinded investigators assessed debris presence in the middle and apical thirds using a 5‐point scale.

Results

There was no significant difference in smear layer and debris removal between treatment and control groups in the same canal zones. A significant difference was noted across different canal zones both within and across the groups.

Conclusion

There is no statistically significant difference in effectiveness between activated irrigation techniques and manual activation. Further investigations are required to evaluate all methods available and determine the most efficient technique to irrigate successfully.
Current status and solutions for gender equity in anaesthesia research
Authors: Flexman A. M. , Shillcutt S. K. , Davies S. , Lorello G. R.
Published: March 2021

Despite increasing numbers of women entering anaesthesia, they remain persistently under‐represented within academic anaesthesia and research. Gender discordance is seen across multiple aspects of research, including authorship, editorship, peer review, grant receipt, speaking and leading. Women are also under‐represented at higher faculty ranks and in department chair positions. These inequities are further magnified for women with intersectional identities, such as those who identify as Black, indigenous and women of colour. Several barriers to participation in research have been identified to date, including a disproportionate amount of family responsibilities, a disproportionate burden of clinical service, gender bias, sexual harassment and the gender pay gap. Several strategies to improve gender equity have been proposed. Increasing access to formal mentorship of women in academic medicine is frequently cited and has been used by healthcare institutions and medical societies. Senior faculty and leaders must also be conscious of including women in sponsorship and networking opportunities. Institutions should provide support for parents of all genders, including supportive parental leave policies and flexible work models. Women should also be materially supported to attend formal educational conferences targeted for women, aimed at improving networking, peer support and professional development. Finally, leaders must display a clear intolerance for sexual harassment and discrimination to drive culture change. Peers and leaders alike, of all genders, can act as upstanders and speak up on behalf of targets of discrimination, both in the moment or after the fact. Gender inequities have persisted for far too long and can no longer be ignored. Diversifying the anaesthesia research community is essential to the future of the field.
Sperm quality in transgender women before or after gender affirming hormone therapy—A prospective cohort study
Authors: Rodriguez‐Wallberg Kenny A. , Häljestig Jakob , Arver Stefan , Johansson Anna L. V. , Lundberg Frida E.
Published: March 2021

Background

Due to recent changes in the legal framework, access to fertility preservation (FP) for transgender individuals has opened up in several countries. In Sweden and the Nordic countries, fertility preservation for medical reasons is fully reimbursed as part of the established tax‐funded healthcare services. As this issue is relatively new, procedures for FP have seldom been reported in the transgender patient population. The very limited literature has indicated that transgender women may have poorer sperm quality than cisgender men when assessing samples aimed at semen banking.

Objectives

To assess sperm quality parameters of semen samples provided for FP by transgender women before or after gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), and to compare sperm quality with a reference population of unscreened men defined by the World Health Organization (WHO). Additionally, we aimed to describe referral patterns over calendar time and estimate time from referral to semen cryopreservation.

Material and Methods

Prospective cohort study of 212 transgender women referred for FP to the Reproductive Medicine Clinic of Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden, between 2013 and 2018. Among 177 individuals that provided semen samples for cryopreservation, 16 had previously received GAHT.

Results

Individuals with previous GAHT presented with significantly lower total sperm count than individuals without GAHT (p = 0.002). However, higher proportions of sperm abnormalities were also noted among individuals who had not undergone previous GAHT, compared to the WHO reference population (p < 0.001). Referrals of transgender women for FP increased over time. The median time from referral to semen cryopreservation was 27 days.

Conclusions

A high occurrence of sperm abnormalities was found in transgender women, especially among individuals who had previously received GAHT. The results underline the importance of thoroughly discussing parenthood options and FP with patients early after diagnosis and referring the patients for semen banking preferably before starting GAHT.
Body mass index and surgical outcomes in laparoscopic liver resections: a systematic review
Authors: Kwan Bianca , Waters Peadar S. , Keogh Cian , Cavallucci David J. , O'Rourke Nicholas , Bryant Richard D.
Published: March 2021

Background

Laparoscopic liver resection is gaining momentum; however, there is limited evidence on its efficacy and safety in obese patients. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between BMI and outcomes after laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) using a systematic review of the existing literature.

Methods

A systematic search of Medline (Ovid 1946–present), PubMed (NCBI), Embase (Ovid 1966–present) and Cochrane Library was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement for parameters of LLR and BMI. Operative, post‐operative and oncological outcomes were recorded.

Results

Of 1460 abstracts, seven retrospective studies were analysed, published between 2015 and 2017 (study periods 1998–2017). Total patient cohort were classified as 481 obese and 1180 non‐obese with a median age range of 42.5–69.4 years. Variations existed in definitions of obesity (Asia BMI >25 kg/m2, Western BMI >30 kg/m2). Rates of conversion were examined in four studies (0–31%) with one reporting BMI >28 kg/m2 as an independent risk factor. Estimated blood loss and transfusion rates were similar. Operative time was increased in obese patients in one study (P = 0.02). Mortality rates ranged from 0% to 4.3% with no difference between BMI classes. No difference in major morbidity was demonstrated. Bile leak rates were increased in obese groups in one study (0–3.44%, P < 0.05). Wound infections were reported in five studies, with higher rates in obese patients (0–5.8% versus 0–1.9%). Tumour size was comparable in both groups. Completeness of resection was analysed in four studies with one study reporting increased R0 rates in obese patients (P = 0.012).

Conclusion

This systematic review highlights that current evidence shows LLR in obese patients is safe, however, further studies are required.
Regulation of the expression of human endogenous retroviruses: elements in fetal development and a possible role in the development of cancer and neurological diseases
Authors: Kristensen Maiken Kruse , Christensen Tove
Published: March 2021

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are remnants of ancient retroviral germline infections. Most HERV sequences are silenced in somatic cells, but interest is emerging on the involvement of HERV derived transcripts and proteins in human physiology and disease. A HERV‐W encoded protein, syncytin‐1, has been co‐opted into fetal physiology, where it plays a role in trophoblast formation. Altered HERV transcription and expression of HERV derived proteins are associated with various cancer types and neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). The implication of HERVs as potential mediators of both health and disease suggests important roles of regulatory mechanisms and alterations of these in physiological and pathological processes. The regulation of HERV sequences is mediated by a wide variety of mechanisms, and the focus of this review is on selected aspects of these, including epigenetic mechanisms such as CpG methylation and histone modifications of the HP1‐H3K9me axis, viral transactivation events, and regulatory perspectives of transient stimuli in the microenvironment. Increasing knowledge of the regulation of HERV sequences will not only contribute to the understanding of complex pathogeneses, but also may pinpoint potential targets for better diagnosis and treatment in complex diseases as MS.
Characterization of different types of broiler bedding including dehydrated grass and their influence on production
Authors: Przybulinski Bruna B. , Garcia Rodrigo G. , Burbarelli Maria Fernanda de C. , Komiyama Claudia M. , Barbosa Deivid Kelly , Caldara Fabiana R. , Serpa Felipe C. , de Castilho Vivian A. R. , Gandra Érika Rosendo de Sena
Published: March 2021

The objective is to evaluate different bedding materials, including dehydrated grass, on performance and carcass yield and verify the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of materials. The completely randomized experiment comprised 1,080 chicks in a 3 × 2 factorial design with three levels of dehydrated grass (0%, 25%, and 50%) and two bedding materials (rice husks and shavings). Total microorganism count and physicochemical characteristics, surface temperature of birds, and performance of birds were analyzed up to 42 days of age, when birds were slaughtered, and carcass yield was evaluated. The inclusion of grass showed a higher microbiological count after 1 day, stabilizing with materials after 28 days. The inclusion of 50% of dehydrated grass resulted in a higher surface bed temperature at 42 days. Inclusions above 25% of grass have a lower density and a greater water retention capacity, pH, moisture, and total nitrogen, in addition to a lower FDA in its structure. The highest ammonia emissions occurred with the inclusion of 25% of grass. The inclusion of dehydrated grass did not affect performance and carcass yield, favoring feed conversion at the initial stages. The inclusion of grass can replace up to 25% of shavings without harming physicochemical parameters of materials and birds' performance.
Recent changes in mountain hay meadows of high conservation value in eastern France
Authors: Nicod Corentin , Gillet François
Published: March 2021

Aim

To assess vegetation changes in mountain hay meadows of high conservation value over 15 years.

Location

Jura Mountains and Vosges Mountains (France).

Methods

In 2019, we resampled old phytosociological relevés (made from 2005 to 2009) in extensive mountain hay meadows. To detect shifts in composition from old to recent relevés, we performed a permutational multivariate analysis of variance, and visualized observed patterns using non‐metric multidimensional scaling on the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity matrix of the vegetation data. We tested for differences in taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity metrics, CSR strategies and ecological indicator values using paired Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney tests.

Results

Non‐metric multidimensional scaling paired with a permutational multivariate analysis of variance showed that, overall, old and recent plant communities were not different in the Vosges Mountains, contrary to the situation in the Jura Mountains. Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney paired tests revealed that, in the Jura Mountains, plant communities underwent a significant decrease in taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity, associated with an increase of ruderal and competitive strategies. Ecological indicator values for nutrient availability and defoliation tolerance both increased, suggesting an intensification of agricultural practices. In the Vosges Mountains, only species richness increased while the inverse Simpson index and Pielou evenness decreased.

Conclusions

Our results show that plant diversity is not currently threatened in the studied grasslands in the Vosges Mountains. By contrast, in the studied grasslands in the Jura Mountains, plant diversity is declining. The situation in the Vosges shows that agricultural activities and biodiversity conservation can be reconciled. This situation should be further investigated to help resolve conflicts between agriculture and biodiversity conservation in semi‐natural grasslands.
Assessing the importance of reproductive modes for the evaluation of altitudinal distribution patterns in tropical frogs
Authors: Siqueira Carla C. , Vrcibradic Davor , Almeida‐Gomes Mauricio , Rocha Carlos Frederico D.
Published: March 2021

Altitudinal patterns in species richness vary among taxa and are shaped by the intrinsic traits of different organisms and their response to environmental variables. We evaluated the relationship between anuran richness and elevation along local and regional altitudinal gradients within the Brazilian Atlantic Forest based on data from fieldwork (local dataset; 100–1900 m a.s.l.) and on compiled secondary information (regional dataset; 0–2300 m a.s.l.). We also tested whether frog distribution patterns were consistent with the predictions of the mid‐domain (MDE) and Rapoport effects. In each analysis, we also considered the impact of reproductive mode, classified here as either water‐dependent or water‐independent, on species richness patterns. Considering the local dataset, species richness decreased with increasing altitude for all species pooled and (more strongly) for the species with water‐dependent reproductive mode, whereas the water‐independent species presented increased richness at intermediate altitudes. For the regional dataset, richness peaked at intermediate altitudes in all three cases. At the local scale, the observed patterns (except for the water‐dependent species) fit the MDE model, whereas at the regional scale, there was no fit in any case. Neither local nor regional data were consistent with the predictions of the Rapoport rule. Our findings indicate a strong influence of reproductive mode on the altitudinal distribution of tropical frogs, and that distribution patterns may vary according to the spatial scale considered. This highlights the importance of taking life‐history traits into consideration when assessing the distribution patterns of tropical frog species along environmental gradients.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Assessing Environmental Acidity in Storerooms of Natural History Collections
Authors: Pérez‐Azcárate Marta , Caballero‐López Berta , Uribe Francesc , Ibáñez Neus , Masó Glòria , Garcia‐Franquesa Eulàlia , Carrillo‐Ortiz José , Agua Fernando , García‐Heras Manuel , Villegas María‐Ángeles
Published: March 2021

Outdoor and indoor pollutants can affect the conservation of natural history collections. As a first approach to this question, environmental acidity around specimens in the collections of the Natural Science Museum of Barcelona and Botanic Institute of Barcelona (MCNB‐IBB) was measured. Measurements were taken using optical sensors in a number of different places: inside and outside buildings, in storerooms, on store cases and cabinets and in containers in three collections. All acidity measurements fell within a pH range of 6.5–7.7, which suggests that the collections tested were not exposed to a dangerous acidic environment during the measurement period. Despite its outdated facilities, the Museum’s buildings and storerooms act as effective barriers against acid pollutants entering from the outside. The type of storage facilities and containers employed seems to have little impact but is still nevertheless of some relevance. Optical sensors are excellent tools for disentangling the complex spatio‐temporal environments in which the MCNB‐IBB collections are housed. Larger samples will be necessary if a more complete analysis is to be undertaken.
Seller reputation and price gouging: Evidence from the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cabral Luís , Xu Lei
Published: March 2021

From mid‐January to March 2020, 3M masks sold on Amazon by third party sellers were priced 2.4 times higher than Amazon's 2019 price. However, this price increase was not uniform across sellers. We estimate that when Amazon is stocked out (one of our measures of scarcity) new (entrant) sellers increase price by 178%, whereas the continuing sellers' increase is limited to 56.7%. This is consistent with the idea that seller reputation limits the extent of profitable price gouging. Similar results are obtained for Purell hand sanitizer and for other measures of scarcity. We also explore policy implications of our results.
Neurological outcome and quality of life 3 months after COVID‐19: A prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Rass Verena , Beer Ronny , Schiefecker Alois Josef , Kofler Mario , Lindner Anna , Mahlknecht Philipp , Heim Beatrice , Limmert Victoria , Sahanic Sabina , Pizzini Alex , Sonnweber Thomas , Tancevski Ivan , Scherfler Christoph , Zamarian Laura , Bellmann‐Weiler Rosa , Weiss Günter , Djamshidian Atbin , Kiechl Stefan , Seppi Klaus , Loeffler‐Ragg Judith , Pfausler Bettina , Helbok Raimund
Published: March 2021

Background and purpose

To assess neurological manifestations and health‐related quality of life (QoL) 3 months after COVID‐19.

Methods

In this prospective, multicenter, observational cohort study we systematically evaluated neurological signs and diseases by detailed neurological examination and a predefined test battery assessing smelling disorders (16‐item Sniffin Sticks test), cognitive deficits (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), QoL (36‐item Short Form), and mental health (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist–5) 3 months after disease onset.

Results

Of 135 consecutive COVID‐19 patients, 31 (23%) required intensive care unit (ICU) care (severe), 72 (53%) were admitted to the regular ward (moderate), and 32 (24%) underwent outpatient care (mild) during acute disease. At the 3‐month follow‐up, 20 patients (15%) presented with one or more neurological syndromes that were not evident before COVID‐19. These included polyneuro/myopathy (n = 17, 13%) with one patient presenting with Guillain‐Barré syndrome, mild encephalopathy (n = 2, 2%), parkinsonism (n = 1, 1%), orthostatic hypotension (n = 1, 1%), and ischemic stroke (n = 1, 1%). Objective testing revealed hyposmia/anosmia in 57/127 (45%) patients at the 3‐month follow‐up. Self‐reported hyposmia/anosmia was lower (17%) at 3 months, however, improved when compared to the acute disease phase (44%; p < 0.001). At follow‐up, cognitive deficits were apparent in 23%, and QoL was impaired in 31%. Assessment of mental health revealed symptoms of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorders in 11%, 25%, and 11%, respectively.

Conclusions

Despite recovery from the acute infection, neurological symptoms were prevalent at the 3‐month follow‐up. Above all, smelling disorders were persistent in a large proportion of patients.
Metabolic roles of G protein‐coupled receptor signaling in obesity and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Barella Luiz F. , Jain Shanu , Kimura Takefumi , Pydi Sai P.
Published: March 2021

The incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) has been increasing steadily worldwide. It is estimated that by 2045 more than 800 million people will be suffering from diabetes. Despite the advancements in modern medicine, more effective therapies for treating obesity and T2D are needed. G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) have emerged as important drug targets for various chronic diseases, including obesity, T2D, and liver diseases. During the past two decades, many laboratories worldwide focused on understanding the role of GPCR signaling in regulating glucose metabolism and energy homeostasis. The information gained from these studies can guide the development of novel therapeutic agents. In this review, we summarize recent studies providing insights into the role of GPCR signaling in peripheral, metabolically important tissues such as pancreas, liver, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue, focusing primarily on the use of mutant animal models and human data.
Growth parameters, longevity, and mortality of the seabob shrimp Xiphopenaeus spp. (Decapoda: Penaeidae) in four important fishing regions of southeastern Brazil
Authors: Miazaki Lizandra Fernandes , Heckler Gisele Salgado , Santos Ana Paula Freitas , Castilho Antonio Leão , Pescinelli Régis Augusto , Costa Rogerio Caetano
Published: March 2021

We investigated and compared growth parameters, longevity, mortality (total, natural, and fishing), and exploitation rates of the seabob shrimp Xiphopenaeus spp. in four important fishing regions of southeastern Brazil. The hypothesis that the growth and mortality characteristics of distinct populations differ along a latitudinal gradient was tested. Sampling was performed monthly in Macaé, Ubatuba, Santos/São Vicente, and Cananéia over a 1‐ to 2‐year period. Growth and longevity parameters were estimated by the von Bertalanffy growth equation models. Total mortality (Z) was estimated by length‐converted catch curves. Growth parameters differed between sexes: males reached smaller sizes, showed larger growth coefficients (k) and higher mortality, and lived less than females in the four studied regions. Rather than finding a latitudinal gradient, our results support the hypothesis that distinct local environmental characteristics and fishing pressures alter the growth and population dynamics of Xiphopenaeus spp. in different areas. Our study indicates that the stocks of Xiphopenaeus spp. are overexploited, highlighting the importance of management plans to prevent the collapse of stocks and maintain them at sustainable levels for long‐term exploitation.
2. DESPITE SINGULARITY: THE EVENT AND ITS MANIFOLD STRUCTURES OF REPETITION
Authors: ESPOSITO FERNANDO
Published: March 2021

This article's principle interest is in the “structures of repetition” that characterize supposedly singular events. The starting point for the analysis is Reinhart Koselleck's discussion of the event in “Structures of Repetition in Language and History.” Koselleck perceived events as arising from metahistorical structures that characterize all human histories regardless of the eras in which they took place and are narrated. This article scrutinizes Koselleck's understanding of the event as well as the underlying “structures of repetition” shaping it. In considering the question of the temporality of the event, this article distinguishes three strata of repetitive structures. First, it examines a seemingly trivial historiographical structure of repetition of the event, which is the iterative proclamation of the return of the event. It then analyzes Koselleck's foundational, yet rarely truly appreciated, “Structures of Repetition in Language and History” and maps out the fundamental structures of repetition, which are the conditions of possibility of events. Finally, it hints at a further linguistic stratum of repetitive structures. In light of growing interest in Koselleck's work in both German and Anglophone historiography, this article systematizes the manifold structures of repetition against the backdrop of current explorations of the event's temporality, thus surveying a facet of Koselleck's pioneering work that is too often forgotten.