bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection drives the evolution of convergent gene expression changes during transitions to co-sexuality in haploid sexual systems
Authors: Cossard Guillaume G. , Godfroy Olivier , Nehr Zofia , Cruaud Corinne , Cock J. Mark , Lipinska Agnieszka , Coelho Susana M.
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Co-sexuality has evolved repeatedly from ancestors with separate sexes across a wide range of taxa. The switch to co-sexuality is expected to involve major molecular readjustments at the level of gene expression patterns, as modified males or females will express the opposite sexual function for which their phenotypes have been optimized. However, the molecular changes underpinning this important transition remain unknown, particularly in organisms with haploid sexual systems such as bryophytes, red and brown algae. Here, we explore four independent events of emergence of co-sexuality from uni-sexual (dioicous) ancestors in brown algal clades in order to examine the nature, evolution and degree of convergence of gene expression changes that accompany the breakdown of dioicy. The amount of male versus female phenotypic differences in dioicous species were not correlated with the extent of sex-biased gene expression, in strike contrast to what is observed in animals. Although sex-biased genes exhibited a high turnover rate during brown alga diversification, their predicted functions were remarkably conserved. Transition to co-sexuality consistently involved adaptive gene expression shifts and rapid sequence evolution, particularly of male-biased genes. The gene expression profiles of co-sexual species were more similar to those of females than to males of related dioicous species, suggesting that the former may have arisen from ancestral females. Finally, we identified extensive convergent gene expression changes associated with the transition to co-sexuality, and these changes appear to be driven by selection. Together, our observations provide novel insights on how co-sexual systems arise from ancestral, haploid UV sexual systems.
Topography-induced large-scale anti-parallel collective migration in vascular endothelium
Authors: Leclech Claire , Gonzalez-Rodriguez David , Villedieu Aurélien , Lok Thévy , Déplanche Anne-Marie , Barakat Abdul I
Published: July 2021

Collective migration of vascular endothelial cells is central for embryonic development, angiogenesis, and wound closure. Although physical confinement of cell assemblies has been shown to elicit specific patterns of collective movement in various cell types, endothelial migration in vivo often occurs without confinement. Here we show that unconfined endothelial cell monolayers on microgrooved substrates that mimic the anisotropic organization of the extracellular matrix exhibit a new type of collective movement that takes the form of a periodic pattern of anti-parallel cell streams. We further establish that the development of these streams requires intact cell-cell junctions and that stream sizes are particularly sensitive to groove depth. Finally, we show that modeling the endothelial cell sheet as an active fluid with the microgrooves acting as constraints on cell orientation predicts the occurrence of the periodic anti-parallel cell streams as well as their lengths and widths. We posit that in unconfined cell assemblies, physical factors that constrain or bias cellular orientation such as anisotropic extracellular matrix cues or directed flow-derived shear forces dictate the pattern of collective cell movement.
Generation, quality control, and analysis of the first genomically humanised knock-in mice for the ALS/FTD genes SOD1, TARDBP (TDP-43), and FUS
Authors: Devoy Anny , Price Georgia , Giorgio Francesca De , Bunton-Stasyshyn Rosie , Thompson David , Gasco Samanta , Allan Alasdair , Codner Gemma F. , Nair Remya R. , Tibbit Charlotte , McLeod Ross , Ali Zeinab , Noda Judith , Marrero-Gagliardi Alessandro , Brito-Armas José M , Simon Michelle , O’Neill Edward , Harrison Jackie , Atkins Gemma , Corrochano Silvia , Stewart Michelle , Teboul Lydia , Acevedo-Arozena Abraham , Fisher Elizabeth M.C , Cunningham Thomas J.
Published: July 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - frontotemporal dementia spectrum disorder (ALS/FTD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease; up to 10% of cases are familial, usually arising from single dominant mutations in >30 causative genes. Transgenic mouse models that overexpress human ALS/FTD causative genes have been the preferred organism for in vivo modelling. However, while conferring human protein biochemistry, these overexpression models are not ideal for dosage-sensitive proteins such as TDP-43 or FUS.

We have created three next-generation genomically humanised knock-in mouse models for ALS/FTD research, by replacing the entire mouse coding region of Sod1, Tardbp (TDP-43) and Fus, with their human orthologues to preserve human protein biochemistry, with exons and introns intact to enable future modelling of coding or non-coding mutations and variants and to preserve human splice variants. In generating these mice, we have established a new-standard of quality control: we demonstrate the utility of indirect capture for enrichment of a region of interest followed by Oxford Nanopore sequencing for robustly characterising large knock-in alleles. This approach confirmed that targeting occurred at the correct locus and to map homologous recombination events. Furthermore, extensive expression data from the three lines shows that homozygous humanised animals only express human protein, at endogenous levels. Characterisation of humanised FUS animals showed that they are phenotypically normal compared to wildtype littermates throughout their lifespan.

These humanised mouse strains are critically needed for preclinical assessment of interventions, such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), to modulate expression levels in patients, and will serve as templates for the addition of human ALS/FTD mutations to dissect disease pathomechanisms.
The Dilemma Of Disobedience: An ERP study
Authors: Fabre Eve F. , Causse Mickaël , Othon Maryel , Van Der Henst Jean-Baptiste
Published: July 2021

The present experiment aimed at investigating the decision-making and the associated event-related potentials (ERPs) of subordinates under hierarchical pressure. Participants (N = 33) acted as UAV operators and had to decide to crash their defective drone either on a civilian site killing all civilians present on the site or on a military site destroying military material but preventing any human losses. While in the no-command condition, participants decided according to their own preferences, in the command condition they were ordered to protect the military material at the expense of civilians for undisclosed strategic reasons. The results revealed that in the no-command condition participants almost always crashed the drone on the military site (96%), whereas in the command condition they chose to obey orders and sacrifice civilians to protect the military material 33% of the time. In the command condition, participants were longer to make their decisions, mobilizing greater attentional and cognitive resources (i.e., greater P300 responses) to resolve the conflict between their internal moral values and the orders they were given (i.e., greater N200 responses) than in the no-command condition, where they automatically applied the “you shall not kill” rule. Participants also showed a greater negative affective response (i.e., greater P260 amplitudes) after choosing to disobey than to obey orders. This result suggests that disobeying authority could be perceived as a greater moral violation than obeying and sacrificing civilians, suggesting that individuals may sometimes choose to obey malevolent authority to avoid the negative affective reaction triggered by disobedience.
Positron lifetime spectroscopy of defect structures in Cd1–x
Zn
x
Te mixed crystals grown by vertical Bridgman–Stockbarger method
Authors: Gorgol Marek , Zaleski Radosław , Kierys Agnieszka , Kamiński Daniel , Strzałkowski Karol , Fedus Kamil
Published: July 2021

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was used to examine grown-in defects in Cd1–x
Zn
x
Te mixed crystals as a function of Zn content (x = 0, 0.07, 0.11, 0.49, 0.9, 0.95, 1) and measuring temperature. All samples were prepared using the high-pressure modified vertical Bridgman–Stockbarger method. The crystal structure and material phase were characterized by X-ray diffraction. The positron lifetime spectra reveal the presence of both open volumes and shallow traps regardless of the sample composition. In particular, both average and bulk lifetimes are found to be much higher in ternary alloys (CdZnTe) than those in binary systems (CdTe and ZnTe). This originates from distinct differences in average electron densities and the nature of open-volume defects between binary and ternary samples. Competition in positron trapping with increasing Zn content is observed between defects characteristic for both structural systems. Moreover, a clear correlation is shown between defects and the lattice thermal conductivity of studied samples. The applicability of the positron trapping model to CdTe-based materials is discussed.
Perceptions and beliefs influencing intention to use solar energy solutions in Zambian households
Authors: Zulu Sambo Lyson , Chabala Mwansa , Zulu Ephraim
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The study examined perceptions and beliefs that influence the intention to adopt solar energy solutions in the Zambian Housing Sector. This is important because empirical evidence for measures aimed at improving the adoption of solar energy solutions with SSA in general or a Zambian context, in particular, are largely missing from the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical multiple linear regression was used to analyse quantitative data collected through an online questionnaire survey. A total of 947 valid responses were obtained from a convenient sample of household heads.

Findings

The results show that attitude towards solar energy solutions, subjective norms, perceived benefits, perceived trust, knowledge about solar energy solutions, load-shedding and social norms, in that order of magnitude, influence the intention to adopt solar energy solutions. Perceived behavioural control, perceived risk and perceived cost did not influence the intention to adopt solar energy solutions.

Originality/value

The results provide empirical evidence of important factors to drive the adoption of solar energy solutions in Zambia. The results further show that knowledge about available solar energy solutions, rather than general knowledge about renewable energy, influence the adoption intention of solar energy solutions.
Does wage bonus positively impact the economy?
Authors: Le-Van Cuong , To-The Nguyen
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Total factor productivity (TFP), for a country and for a firm as well, is a crucial element for economic growth by inducing high output. Actually, workers' effort is among the important factors that positively influence the TFP.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors assume that the wage bonus enhances the worker's effort. Wage bonus is an incentive mechanism and plays a role in the TFP as is shown in a recent paper by Le Van and Pham (2021). The firm will maximize its profits. The supplies of capital and workers are exogenous. At equilibrium, the authors obtain that wage bonus has positive effects on output, labor productivity and price of the output.

Findings

The wage bonus system can make the optimal sequence of outputs grow without bounds. And if the optimal sequence converges to a steady state, this one can be characterized by higher output per capita than that in the steady state without the bonus.

Originality/value

In particular, the result show if, thanks to the wage bonus externality effect, the production may become of increasing returns and if the incentive mechanism is very strong, any optimal path of physical capitals will converge to infinity.
Impact of re-election on development in India: a comparative analysis of leading and lagging states
Authors: Misra Biswa Swarup
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine political accountability to the voter in India by studying re-election patterns in 14 major states categorized as leading and lagging during the period 1952–2015.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has computed a state-wise re-election index by taking the ratio of the number of constituencies exhibiting re-election in four consecutive terms during 1952–1999 to the total number of constituencies in the state. The time-invariant re-election index as of the year 1999 is used to estimate the impact of the re-election on per capita state income during 2001–2015. This paper has used the correlated random effects estimation procedure that considers the state-specific unobserved factors while using a time-invariant regressor to ascertain the impact of re-election.

Findings

This study finds that persistent re-election does not seem to lead to better development outcomes. When this study computes the re-election index by excluding constituencies that are underdeveloped both in the economic and social spheres, this paper finds the asymmetric impact of re-election for the leading and the lagging states. The findings suggest that historical institutions in the laggings states could be driving the empirical results. The empirical findings are corroborated by the relatively poor availability of basic amenities in constituencies exhibiting persistent re-election when compared to the state average.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that the provision of re-election without term limits may need to be revisited in the lagging states for better political accountability.

Originality/value

First, the authors study the pattern of constituency-wise re-election to compute state-wise re-election index to capture persistent re-election. Second, the authors assess the development status of a constituency by mapping it to the development indicators of the district in which the constituency is located. This paper considers both economic as well social indicators of development. Third, the time-invariant nature of the re-election index helps to address reverse causality while studying the impact of re-election on development. Fourth, the authors use a novel econometric methodology to study the impact of the re-election on development given the time-invariant characteristic of the re-election index.
Prediction of unregulated energy usage in office buildings
Authors: Frimpong Emmanuel , Twumasi Elvis
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The paper presents a technique for predicting the energy consumption of unregulated energy loads (UELs) in office buildings. It also presents an approach for determining a set of optimum values required by the technique.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed technique uses the optimum power drawn and optimum usage period in three modes of device operation, for the prediction. The usage modes are active mode, idle (low active) mode and off mode. The optimum powers and usage times are inserted into a linear mathematical equation to predict the energy consumption. Regarding the approach for determining the optimum values, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) is applied to a range of values obtained from field measurements. The proposed prediction method and approach for determining optimum values were tested using data of energy consumption of UELs in a case study facility.

Findings

Test results show that the method for predicting the energy consumption of UELs in offices is highly accurate and suitable for adoption by energy modelers, building designers and building regulatory agencies. The approach for determining the optimum values is also effective and can aid the establishment of workable benchmark values.

Originality/value

A new and simple model has been developed for the prediction of unregulated energy. A method for determining a set of optimum values of power and usage periods required by the model has also been developed. Furthermore, optimum values have been suggested that can be fine-tuned for use as benchmark values. The proposed approaches are the first of their kind.
Impact of economic growth on carbon emissions in selected West African countries, 1980–2019
Authors: Osadume Richard , University Edih O.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study investigated the impact of economic growth on carbon emissions on selected West African countries between 1980 and 2019. Simon-Steinmann's economic growth model provides the relevant theoretical foundation. The main objective of this study was to ascertain whether economic growth will impact carbon emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study selected six-sample countries in West Africa and used secondary data obtained through the World Bank Group online database covering the period 1980–2019, employing panel econometric methods of statistical analysis.

Findings

The outcome indicates that the independent variable showed a positively significant impact on the dependent variable for the pooled samples in the short-run, with significant cointegration.

Research limitations/implications

The study concluded that economic growth significantly impacts the emissions of carbon, and a 1% rise in economic growth will result to 3.11121% unit rise in carbon emissions.

Practical implications

Policy implementation should encourage the use of energy efficient facilities by firms and government and the establishment of carbon trading hubs.

Social implications

Failure by governments to heed the recommendations of this research will result to serious climate change issues on economic activities with attendant consequences on human health within the region and globally.

Originality/value

This is one of the comprehensive works on subject covering the West African region within the continent.
Mental health innovative solutions in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rocha André , Almeida Fernando
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore worldwide innovative solutions that have been proposed to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on people’s mental health.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology is adopted, which performs an exploratory study considering the innovative projects identified by the Observatory for Public Sector Innovation framework. Additionally, the analysis of the relevance and characteristics of these projects are explored considering a multidimensional framework composed of five dimensions: novelty level; social need; improvement of society; sector neutrality; and level of emergence.

Findings

The findings reveal that the number of projects in the field of mental health is low, despite their strong relevance to their communities. These projects arise from a strong social need to protect especially the most vulnerable groups in this pandemic and involve a large number of partners in the public sector, business and civil society. The role of volunteering in the revitalization and growth of these initiatives is also recognized.

Originality/value

This study is relevant in both the theoretical and practical dimensions. It allows the exploration of these projects considering the dimensions of social innovation and offers practical implications that allow these projects to be replicated in other countries and regions.
Design-driven innovation: exploring new product development in the home appliances and furniture industry
Authors: Conti Emanuela , Chiarini Andrea
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the phases of new product development within the design-driven innovation (DDI) process, the role of designers and collaborators in the process and how this process relates to some quality principles.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative approach using Gioia methodology. In particular, four Italian manufacturing companies in the home appliances and furniture industry were selected, and data mainly collected through direct interviews were analysed through content analysis.

Findings

The new product development related to DDI includes the following phases: the company brief, the designer research, the concept of the designer, the design, legal protection, prototyping, production and the market launch. Designers play a strategic role in the above phases of DDI, but other actors also cooperate and some quality principles affect positively on the process. This study proposes a model for a DDI process in the home appliances and furniture sector.

Research limitations/implications

Although this exploratory study was conducted on only four companies, it advances the DDI research in relation to new product development.

Practical implications

This study makes recommendations to entrepreneurs and managers on how to innovate successfully and to effectively manage designers and collaborators to ensure competition.

Social implications

This analysis highlights that design-based innovation contributes to improving the quality of life of consumers.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first qualitative study to examine the phases of new product development in DDI process, the actors involved and relationship to quality principles for the Italian home appliances and furniture sector.
The role of social media in strengthening civic engagement in the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Ahmed Allam , Gibreel Omer
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This article explores the current trends in civic engagement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region after a decade of social media growth in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on a case studies approach. In these case studies, the authors use an exploratory approach to case study research. The authors employ a mixed-method approach to exploring the development of civic engagement in the MENA region.

Findings

The study’s finding shows that the MENA region's social media growth has enabled digital natives to play a vital role in enriching and empowering their communities and their lives.

Research limitations/implications

The paper could have explored more examples from around the MENA region.

Practical implications

The paper's practical significance is the understanding that the ground is shifting around Internet access and how digital natives in the MENA region are employing it for their civic engagement initiative. It is an important indication that the MENA region's next innovation could be in the civic engagement arena. Unlike their parents, who are digital immigrants, these young and energetic digital natives are out to shape all aspects of their lives. Paving the way for more innovative and creative ways of civic engagement in the MENA region.

Originality/value

The paper explores civic engagement development in the MENA region, shedding light on the issues concerning MENA region youth such as cleaning the environment, waste and food recycling, combating extremism, developing education curricula and even promoting peace. The paper's value is that it gives an update on civic engagement in the MENA region.
Interrelationship of soil moisture and temperature to sylvatic plague cycle among prairie dogs in the Western United States
Authors: PAULING Cassandra D. , FINKE Deborah L. , ANDERSON Deborah M.
Published: July 2021

Plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, is a flea‐borne disease that is endemic in areas throughout the world due to its successful maintenance in a sylvatic cycle, mainly in areas with temperate climates. Burrowing rodents are thought to play a key role in the enzootic maintenance as well as epizootic outbreaks of plague. In the United States, prairie dogs (Cynomys), rodents (Muridae), and ground squirrels (Spermophilus) are susceptible to infection and are parasitized by fleas that transmit plague. In particular, prairie dogs can experience outbreaks that rapidly spread, which can lead to extirpation of colonies. A number of ecological parameters, including climate, are associated with these epizootics. In this study, we asked whether soil parameters, primarily moisture and temperature, are associated with outbreaks of plague in black‐tailed prairie dogs and Gunnison's prairie dogs in the Western United States, and at what depth these associations were apparent. We collected publicly available county‐level information on the occurrence of population declines or colony extirpation, while historical soil data was collected from SCAN and USCRN stations in counties and states where prairie dogs have been located. The analysis suggests that soil moisture at lower depths correlates with colony die‐offs, in addition to temperature near the surface, with key differences within the landscape ecology that impact the occurrence of plague. Overall, the model suggests that the burrow environment may play a significant role in the epizootic spread of disease amongst black‐tailed and Gunnison's prairie dogs.
Luku Alkali Syenite in the Hongge Ore District, SW China: Geochemistry, Geochronology and Metallogenic Significance
Authors: ZHOU Jiayun , LIU Yingdong , XU Li , ZHU Zhimin , GONG Daxing , JIANG Xiaoli
Published: July 2021

Luku alkali syenite is distributed throughout the southern end of the Hongge basic‐ultrabasic intrusion in Panzhihua, Sichuan, SW China. Using LA‐ICP‐MS, the alkali syenite intrusion yielded a zircon U‐Pb age of 264.5 ± 1.6 Ma, concordant with the ages of the E'meishan large igneous province (260 Ma). The intrusion displayed silica‐saturated, Al‐adequate and alkali‐rich signatures, with SiO2 62.07%–64.04%, Al2O3 16.26%–16.79% and Na2O + K2O 9.17%–9.91% (averaging 9.31%). The rock falls into the alkaline zone on the SiO2‐A.R. diagram, as well as in the potassium zone on the K2O‐Na2O diagram, indicating a potassium alkaline rock. The rock has a low total REE concentration and showed enrichment in LREE (LREE/HREE = 7.06–7.95), typical negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.73–0.80), trace element deficiencies in LILEs (Ba, K, Sr, Zr) and enrichment in HFSEs (Th, U, Nd, Sm, Ta and Nb), displaying crust and mantle element information. Zircons show a strong positive Ce anomaly and negative Eu anomaly, similar to the characteristics of crustal source magmatic zircon, however the (Lu/Gd)N ratio ranges from 1.48 to 3.17, and the (Yb/Sm)N ratio ranges from 38.49 to 77.15, which are similar to the characteristics of mantle‐derived magmatic zircon. In the La/Yb‐δEu correlation diagram, the data plots near the boundary between crust type and crust‐mantle type. From the combined ‘trinity’ spatiotemporal relationship of Indosinian intermediate‐acid alkali intrusive rocks in the Panxi area with E'meishan basalt and basic‐ultrabasic intrusive rocks, the regional tectonic evolution and the partial melting model of the most intraplate magma sources, we believe that the Luku alkali syenite in Sichuan was formed from the partial melting of a crust‐mantle source material, due to underplating of the mantle plume basic magma.
Geochronology and Geochemistry of Late Triassic Intrusive Rocks in the Xiuyan Area, Liaodong Peninsula, Eastern North China Craton: Petrogenesis and Implications for Lithospheric Thinning
Authors: ZHANG Yanfei , DONG Yang , XIAO Rongge , LIU Jingdang , ZHAO Baoju
Published: July 2021

The timing and mechanisms of lithospheric thinning and destruction of the North China Craton (NCC) remain controversial, and the overall geodynamics of the process are poorly understood. This paper documents Late Triassic igneous rocks including monzogranite, gabbro, and diorite from the Xiuyan District on the Liaodong Peninsula in the eastern NCC, which have LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U‐Pb ages of 229.0 ± 0.4 Ma, 216.2 ± 0.9 Ma, and 210.6 ± 2.0 Ma, respectively. Monzogranite shows high‐SiO2adakite affinity, negative∊Hf(t) values (–20.6 to –17.9), and oldTDM2ages (3.53–3.29 Ga), suggesting that their parental magma was derived from thickened Paleoarchean mafic lower crust and minor mantle materials that were also involved their generation. Gabbro is ultrapotassic, strongly enriched in LREEs and LILEs, depleted in HFSEs, and has evolved zircon Hf isotopes with negative∊Hfof –10.04 to –5.85 and oldTDM2ages (2.59 –2.22 Ga). These are diagnostic signatures of a crustal component, but their high contents of MgO, Cr, Co, Ni indicate that the primary magma originated from enriched mantle. Diorite is enriched in LILEs and LREEs, depleted in HFSEs (with negative Nb, Ta, and Ti anomalies), and contains negative∊Hf(t) values (–13.64 to –11.01). Compared with the gabbro, the diorite is relatively enriched in Nb, Ta and HREEs, and also contains youngerTDM2ages (2.11–1.94 Ga), suggesting that the diorite was formed by mixing between ancient lower crust‐derived felsic magmas and asthenospheric mantle‐derived magmas. Field observations, geochronology, geochemistry, and zircon Lu‐Hf isotopes indicate that Late Triassic magmatism and tectonic activity resulted from deep subduction of the Yangtze Craton beneath the NCC in the Xiuyan area. This phase of tectonic activity was completed in the eastern NCC by the Late Triassic (216 Ma), and was subsequently followed by lithospheric thinning that began in the Late Triassic.
Strengthening protection of endemic wildlife threatened by the international pet trade: The case of the Australian shingleback lizard
Authors: Heinrich S. , Toomes A. , Shepherd C. R. , Stringham O. C. , Swan M. , Cassey P.
Published: July 2021

Unsustainable wildlife trade threatens an increasing number of species globally. Australia has a particularly rich and endemic herpetofauna, which is coveted on the international pet market. While Australia implements domestic protection of most of its native species, there is little to no regulation of international trade once live animals have been smuggled out of the country. This is a threat for a variety of rare, unique and/or range‐restricted species, subspecies and locality morphs. One of these species is the shingleback lizard (Tiliqua rugosa).

We compiled Australian seizure data and international online trade data pertaining to shinglebacks. We found all four subspecies in trade across Asia, Europe and North America. Here we provide evidence that all four shingleback subspecies are illegally extracted from the wild in Australia and smuggled to international destinations, where they are sold and distributed globally.

While shinglebacks are a protected species in Australia and can only be exported legally under a federal permit, their import into, and trade between, other countries is often not illegal, even in the absence of such a permit. These contradictory legal frameworks apply to the majority of nationally protected native fauna and must be addressed by each importing country on an individual basis; that is, by changing their legislation to cover and protect species that are nationally protected in their native range. Meanwhile, however, we argue that listingT. rugosain Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora is a meaningful way to provide other countries with the legal means to confiscate illegally exported shinglebacks from Australia. Our findings and recommendations are directly relevant for potential future Appendix III consideration of other nationally protected species that are found in international trade.
De‐Naturalizing the Novice: A Critique of the Theory of Language Socialization
Authors: Berman Elise , Smith Benjamin
Published: July 2021

This article critiques the concept “novice” in the language socialization paradigm. Although rarely theorized, the concept “novice” has framed what is seen as an event of language socialization: it must include at least one person who has not yet acquired some socially valuable characteristic or skill. Conversely, we propose that novicehood is not a natural category: agents who appear as “novices” only do so relative to ideological worlds in which they are made to appear relatively incapable. We then go on to consider three consequences of this reformulation: agents and objects of socialization do not have to be human, socialization does not necessarily lead “upward” towards expertise, and the linguistic mediation of these processes does not always summon agents towards maturity. This critique leads us to propose a theory that both includes a broader range of socializable agents and connects socialization to questions of power and exclusion. [language socialization, novice, ideology, life course, race]
Liminality (Re‐)Realized in the Psychedelic Rave
Authors: Kyriakopoulos Leandros
Published: July 2021

The literature concerning rave parties uses Victor Turner’s concept of liminality to consider the hours‐long dancing to electronic dance music as a state of ambiguity that potentializes sociopolitical change. Liminality seemingly corresponds to the performances in question since they entail a serious play with stimulants and hallucinogens. Yet, what if the experiences unfolding within the rave space circuses are not exclusive to the event but rather circulate as images and fantasy echoing the fables of modernity? The article traces manifestations of the journey—a crucial narrative in the psychedelic rave—to situate the event in our techno‐mediated worlds. In light of how designer drug experiences multiply in different social settings, the mobility to dreamworlds in exotic destinations prompts me to question whether liminality creates the space for “transformational experiences.” Instead, I examine how it reifies the modern ideals of adventurous traveling, aesthetic intimacy, and individualized self‐discovery, resonating an oncoming modernity.
Outpatient Foley catheter induction protocol provides clinical and cost benefits
Authors: Washburn Mary C. , Washburn Mark , Hong Christina , Roth Patrick , Richter Paula
Published: July 2021

Background

Obstetric induction procedures are expensive, and little is known of the specific difference in cost between inpatient and outpatient protocols for these procedures.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the difference in health care costs, maternal and neonatal morbidity, and cesarean birth rates for inpatient versus outpatient Foley induction protocols.

Material and methods

We conducted a retrospective study using deliveries from 2013 to 2015 that received an outpatient or inpatient Foley catheter induction. Inductions were matched by race, parity, and maternal age. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression to test the association between type of induction, length of stay, and cost. Maternal and neonatal factors and cesarean rates were also considered.

Results

A total of 163 outpatient Foley inductions were matched 1:1 to inpatient inductions. Outpatient inductions were more likely to have a shorter length of hospitalization from admission to discharge (a 7.17‐hour difference, 95% CI, 71.00, 77.59) and lower costs of hospitalization ($408 per patient, 95% CI, 4305, 4714). In the univariate analysis, there was no difference in rate of cesarean birth (OR 0.95, 95% CI, 0.61, 1.48). However, in the multivariate analysis, there was a decreased rate of cesarean for outpatient inductions (OR 0.5, 95% CI, 0.26, 0.97).

Conclusions

Outpatient Foley catheter induction appears to be a safe, cost‐effective method for induction of labor. Generating protocols allowing patients to receive quality care in an outpatient setting is increasingly important in current health care environments.
Early initiation of hydroxyurea (hydroxycarbamide) using individualised, pharmacokinetics‐guided dosing can produce sustained and nearly pancellular expression of fetal haemoglobin in children with sickle cell anaemia
Authors: Quinn Charles T. , Niss Omar , Dong Min , Pfeiffer Amanda , Korpik Jennifer , Reynaud Mary , Bonar Holly , Kalfa Theodosia A. , Smart Luke R. , Malik Punam , Ware Russell E. , Vinks Alexander A. , McGann Patrick T.
Published: July 2021

Hydroxyurea (hydroxycarbamide) is an effective treatment for sickle cell anaemia (SCA), but clinical responses depend primarily upon the degree of fetal haemoglobin (HbF) induction and the heterogeneity of HbF expression across erythrocytes. The number and characteristics of HbF‐containing cells (F‐cells) are not assessed by traditional HbF measurements. Conventional hydroxyurea dosing (e.g. fixed doses or low starting doses with stepwise escalation) produces a moderate heterocellular HbF induction, but haemolysis and clinical complications continue. Robust, pancellular HbF induction is needed to minimise or fully inhibit polymerisation of sickle haemoglobin. We treated children with hydroxyurea using an individualised, pharmacokinetics‐guided regimen starting at predicted maximum tolerated dose (MTD). We observed sustained HbF induction (mean >30%) for up to 6 years, which was not dependent on genetic determinants of HbF expression. Nearly 70% of patients had ≥80% F‐cells (near‐pancellular), and almost half had ≥90% F‐cells (pancellular). The mean HbF/F‐cell content was ~12 pg. Earlier age of initiation and better medication adherence were associated with high F‐cell responses. In summary, early initiation of hydroxyurea using pharmacokinetics‐guided starting doses at predicted MTD can achieve sustained near‐pancellular or pancellular HbF expression and should be considered an achievable goal for children with SCA treated with hydroxyurea at optimal doses.

Clinical trial registration number: NCT02286154 (clinicaltrials.gov).
Long‐term home non‐invasive ventilation in chronic hypercapnic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: Real‐world impact on lung function, acute exacerbations and survival
Authors: Freitas Cláudia , Serino Mariana , Araújo David , Pinto Tiago , Van Zeller Mafalda , Gonçalves Miguel , Drummond Marta
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Although long‐term home non‐invasive ventilation (H‐NIV) has been used among chronic hypercapnic COPD patients, its clinical benefit is still on debate. We aim to assess the impact of H‐NIV in chronic hypercapnic COPD patients.

Methods

COPD patients who initiated H‐NIV between January 2010 and December 2017 were included. Patients with concomitant respiratory disorders were excluded. Acute exacerbation (AE) before and 2 years after H‐NIV initiation was assessed as main outcome. Secondary outcomes included lung function and gas exchange parameters. Survival since H‐NIV initiation was determined, and factors related with survival were explored.

Results

Seventy‐two patients were enrolled. A decrease in partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in arterial blood (p < 0.001) and an improvement of partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) (p < 0.001) were achieved using a high‐intensity H‐NIV. Regarding lung function, residual volume (RV) reduced (p = 0.010) and forced‐expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) improved (p = 0.043) after H‐NIV initiation. No significant differences in 6‐min walking test (6MWT) were found. Compared with the year before H‐NIV initiation, the number of AE diminished in the first and in the second years of follow‐up (p < 0.001). The median survival was 79.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 52.9–105.1), and the covered distance in 6MWT predicted survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.026, p = 0.003) in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

High‐intensity H‐NIV significantly improved FEV1 and hyperinflation, decreased frequency of AEs and led to a remarkable median survival, which was independently predicted by the walking distance in 6MWT.
Singapore Family Justice Courts Workplan 2020: Today is a New Day
Authors: Ong Debbie
Published: July 2021

The article is adapted from a “workplan” speech delivered by the Presiding Judge of the Family Justice Courts of Singapore. It suggests why family disputes must be resolved in way that is distinctly different from other civil disputes and sets out how Therapeutic Justice will be adopted in the Family Justice Courts. Therapeutic Justice in a multi‐disciplinary justice system is not a new concept, but its successful adoption lies in the force of the justice system's formal commitment to it. The workplan speech sets out Singapore's practical plans on what it would take to implement a non‐adversarial, problem‐solving system in the Family Justice Courts.
A public and patient consultation process as an aid to design a person‐centred randomized clinical trial
Authors: Rix Jacqueline , Docherty Sharon , Breen Alexander C. , Sewell Philip , Branney Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Background

Involving patients and members of the public, together with researchers, in decisions about how studies are designed and conducted can create a study that is more person‐centred. The aim of this consultation process was to explore ways of designing a study which takes the person into consideration for the randomized clinical study entitled ‘Biomechanical Effects of Manual Therapy—A Feasibility Study’ using the novel approach of usability testing.

Design

Patient and public volunteers were sought with experience of low back pain. Volunteers were invited to participate in usability testing (a physical walkthrough) of the proposed study method. This was followed by a discussion of areas where usability testing could not be used, such as recruitment strategies, continuity of participant care and dissemination of results. Resulting feedback was considered by the research team and alterations to the original study method were incorporated, provided the research questions could be answered and were practical within the resources available.

Results

Additional recruitment strategies were proposed. Alterations to the study included reduction in study time burden; completion of study paperwork in a quieter location; continuity of participant care after the study; and methods of dissemination of overall study results to participants.

Conclusion

The consultation process used the unique method of usability testing, together with a post‐usability discussion, and resulted in alterations to the future study which may facilitate making it more person‐centred.

Patient and Public Contribution

Patients and public developed the future study design but did not participate in manuscript preparation.
Understanding consumer’ switching intention toward traceable agricultural products: Push‐pull‐mooring perspective
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hong Nhung , Yeh Quey‐Jen , Huang Ching‐Ying
Published: July 2021

Food traceability systems (FTSs) have been increasingly implemented in the food supply chain as a feasible solution to categorize the safety and quality of food. Governments across the world are striving to build public trust and to shift demand to traceable agricultural products (TAPs). This article stresses an important subject by focusing on consumer’ switching intention toward TAPs as product switching has a great impact on food producers and sellers. A total of 478 valid samples were collected from Taiwanese consumers via an online survey. By applying the Push‐Pull‐Mooring (PPM) model, the empirical results of PLS‐SEM analyses identified critical factors and their impacts on consumer switching intention: perceived risk uncertainty associated with non‐traceable food; perceived quality of TAP‐labeled food, willingness to pay a premium price, and health consciousness. Theoretically, this study sheds new light on the literature of migration studies, by examining consumer behavior toward FTSs, it is posited that the PPM theoretical model can predict switching decisions in the food sector. Practically, the findings suggested that FTS is a viable risk‐relieving strategy that should be utilized more heavily to boost consumer retention related to credible food options.
An Efficient Test for Homogeneity of Mean Directions on the Hyper‐sphere
Authors: Kulkarni Hemangi V. , SenGupta Ashis
Published: July 2021

The paper aims to develop a universally implementable efficient test for testing homogeneity of mean directions of several independent hyper‐spherical populations. Conventional tests are valid only under highly concentrated and/or large‐size groups. Focusing on the popular Langevin distribution on ad‐hyper‐sphere, the present work extends the very recent results for the circular case. The hurdle of the nuisance non‐location‐scale concentration parameterκis overcome through a variant of the integrated likelihood ratio test (ILRT), yielding a simple and elegant test statistic. Analytically, second‐order accurate asymptotic chi‐squared distribution of ILRT is established. Extensive simulation study demonstrates that ILRT uniformly outperforms its peers, notably under highly dispersed groups, which is precisely the target parametric region, and is robust under a large class of alternate distributions. Five real‐life data analyses from diverse disciplines, including the emerging field of vectorcardiography and a novel application to compositional data analysis in the context of drug development, illustrate applications of the findings.
Overreaction‐based momentum in the real estate investment trust market
Authors: Chen Tsung‐Yu , Huang Guan‐Ying , Wu Zhen‐Xing
Published: July 2021

This paper examines cross‐sectional return predictability in a real estate investment trust (REIT) market by using a continuing overreaction measure constructed based on the weighted average of signed volumes. We show that (a) trading strategies that involve buying REITs with an upward continuing overreaction and selling REITs with a downward continuing overreaction generate intermediate‐term momentum and long‐term return reversals; (b) the continuing overreaction measure provides superior predictive power in future REIT returns compared with the traditional predictor measured by past returns; and (c) overreaction‐based momentum is more pronounced when the market state continues in the same direction. Evidence from the REIT market provides direct support for the return prediction of the model based on investor overconfidence and biased self‐attribution rather than the model based on dividend growth theory.
Poverty on the rise: The impact of the COVID‐19 lockdown on the informal sector of Gweru, Zimbabwe
Authors: Dzawanda Beauty , Matsa Mark , Nicolau Melanie
Published: July 2021

The informal sector in Zimbabwe employs more than 80 per cent of the population, whose livelihood strategies are under severe threat because of the COVID‐19 lockdown. This paper examines the effects of the lockdown on the informal sector in Gweru. Anchored within the legalist theory of informality, the paper analyses the response of government to the plight of the informal sector in Zimbabwe. A qualitative research design was applied and convenience sampling implemented to select 30 individuals whose livelihood depended on informal cross‐border trade, informal transport, forex trading, hairdressing, and street vending. Results reveal that despite many involved in the informal sector having lost their means of survival during the COVID‐19 lockdown, the government introduced additional restrictions on this sector, thus almost destroying it. In the absence of government assistance, many have adapted their operations, albeit through illegal activities. The study offers recommendations that may ensure the survival of the informal sector beyond the COVID‐19 pandemic. This is important, given that the informal sector is the largest contributor to household income and food security in Zimbabwe.