bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viroscope: plant viral diagnosis from NGS data using biologically-informed genome assembly coverage
Authors: Valenzuela Sandro L. , Norambuena Tomás , Morgante Verónica , García Francisca , Jiménez Juan C. , Núñez Carlos , Fuentes Ignacia , Pollak Bernardo
Published: September 2022

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods are transforming our capacity to detect pathogens and perform disease diagnosis. Although sequencing advances have enabled accessible and point-of-care NGS, data analysis pipelines have yet to provide robust tools for precise and certain diagnosis, particularly in cases of low sequencing coverage. Lack of standardized metrics and harmonized detection thresholds confound the problem further, impeding the adoption and implementation of these solutions in real-world applications. In this work, we tackle these issues and propose biologically-informed viral genome assembly coverage as a method to improve diagnostic certainty. We use the identification of viral replicases, an essential function of viral life cycles, to define genome coverage thresholds in which biological functions can be described. We validate the analysis pipeline, Viroscope, using field samples, synthetic and published datasets and demonstrate that it provides sensitive and specific viral detection. Furthermore, we developed Viroscope.io a web-service to provide on-demand NGS data viral diagnosis to facilitate adoption and implementation by phytosanitary agencies to enable precise viral diagnosis.
Molecular engineering of a cryptic epitope in Spike RBD improves manufacturability and neutralizing breadth against SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Rodriguez-Aponte Sergio A. , Dalvie Neil C. , Wong Ting Y. , Johnston Ryan S. , Naranjo Christopher A. , Bajoria Sakshi , Kumru Ozan S. , Kaur Kawaljit , Russ Brynnan P. , Lee Katherine S. , Cyphert Holly A. , Barbier Mariette , Rao Harish D. , Rajurkar Meghraj P. , Lothe Rakesh R. , Shaligram Umesh S. , Batwal Saurabh , Chandrasekaran Rahul , Nagar Gaurav , Kleanthous Harry , Biswas Sumi , Bevere Justin R. , Joshi Sangeeta B. , Volkin David B. , Damron F. Heath , Love J. Christopher
Published: September 2022

There is a continued need for sarbecovirus vaccines that can be manufactured and distributed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Subunit protein vaccines are manufactured at large scales at low costs, have less stringent temperature requirements for distribution in LMICs, and several candidates have shown protection against SARS-CoV-2. We previously reported an engineered variant of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein receptor binding domain antigen (RBD-L452K-F490W; RBD-J) with enhanced manufacturability and immunogenicity compared to the ancestral RBD. Here, we report a second-generation engineered RBD antigen (RBD-J6) with two additional mutations to a hydrophobic cryptic epitope in the RBD core, S383D and L518D, that further improved expression titers and biophysical stability. RBD-J6 retained binding affinity to human convalescent sera and to all tested neutralizing antibodies except antibodies that target the class IV epitope on the RBD core. K18-hACE2 transgenic mice immunized with three doses of a Beta variant of RBD-J6 displayed on a virus-like particle (VLP) generated neutralizing antibodies (nAb) to nine SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern at similar levels as two doses of Comirnaty. The vaccinated mice were also protected from challenge with Alpha or Beta SARS-CoV-2. This engineered antigen could be useful for modular RBD-based subunit vaccines to enhance manufacturability and global access, or for further development of variant-specific or broadly acting booster vaccines.
Leishmania amazonensiscontrols macrophage-regulated cell death to establish chronic infectionin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Lecoeur Hervé , Zhang Sheng , Varet Hugo , Legendre Rachel , Proux Caroline , Granjean Capucine , Bousso Philippe , Prina Eric , Späth Gerald F.
Published: September 2022

Pathogenic protists of the genusLeishmaniahave evolved various strategies to exploit macrophages as host cells and subvert their immuno-metabolic functions to favour intracellular parasite survival. Surprisingly little is known on howLeishmaniaaffects regulated cell death (RCD) pathways of its host cell, even though increased survival ofin vitroinfected macrophages has been reported, and chronic macrophage infectionin vivocauses the devastating immunopathologies of leishmaniasis. To overcome this limitation and gain first systems-level insight into the interaction between intracellularLeishmaniaand the host cell RCD pathways, including apoptosis, pyroptosis and necroptosis, we applied transcriptomic analyses onL. amazonensis-infected, primary macrophages (termed LIMs) and used YO-PRO-1 to monitor cell death by fluorescent microscopy. RNAseq analyses at day 3 post-infection (PI) revealed dichotomic dysregulation of more than 60% of RCD-related genes in LIMs, characterized by up-regulation of anti-RCD and down-regulation of pro-RCD markers, including key regulators common to the three forms of cell death such ascasp8, fadd, tradd, tnfaip3, tax1bp1, birc3, anditch. This profile correlated with expression changes of transcription factors known to regulate RCD, including AP1 and NF-κB family members,pparγandcebpβ. Consequently, LIMs showed remarkable longevity in culture for at least 50 days, despite a constant increase of parasite burden to about 100 parasites per cell, while non-infected cells were cleared from the culture in just a few days. Longitudinal expression analysis of LIMs at days 0, 3, 15, and 30 PI by RT-qPCR confirmed stable maintenance of this high longevity profile with the dichotomic decrease and increase of RCD-activators and -inhibitors, respectively. LIMs further showed significant resistance to RCD-inducing signals compared to non-infected cells, including CSF-1 deprivation (intrinsic apoptosis), actinomycin D treatment (extrinsic apoptosis), LPS/ATP stimulation (pyroptosis). Significantly, we extended the anti-RCD expression pattern and RCD resistance phenotype toL. amazonensis-infected macrophages recovered from lesions, thus validating our long-termin vitroinfection system as an easily accessible model to study chronic macrophage infection. In conclusion, our analyses firmly document the pan-anti RCD effect ofL. amazonensison its macrophage host cellin vitroandin vivoand shed important new light on mechanisms underlyingLeishmaniachronic infection.
The Diversity and Ubiquity of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Finfish Culture Ponds in Bangladesh
Authors: Bell Ashley G. , Thornber Kelly , Chaput Dominique L. , Hasan Neaz A. , Alam Md. Mehedi , Haque Mohammad Mahfujul , Cable Jo , Temperton Ben , Tyler Charles R.
Published: September 2022

In Bangladesh, fish provide over 60% of animal-source food with 56.2% of this coming from aquaculture produced predominantly in rural freshwater ponds. Increasing demand for fish products is driving intensification and resulting in higher disease prevalence, posing a risk to food security. Biosecurity is often absent in rural aquaculture practices in Bangladesh and antibiotics are commonly used to treat and prevent disease outbreaks. Antibiotics are often administered incorrectly - a key factor associated with the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR can be disseminated rapidly within microbial ecosystems via mobile genetic elements, posing a risk for humans and animals infected with AMR pathogens as treatments with antibiotics become ineffective. Early AMR detection and understanding of the spread of antimicrobial resistant genes (ARGs) in rural aquaculture practices is critical for both food security and human health protection. Here, we apply a metagenomic approach to assess the ARG composition in pond water from six finfish (tilapia and pangasius) farms in the Mymensingh division of North-central Bangladesh. We found microbial communities within the ponds had similar alpha and beta diversities, with multiple ARGs predicted to confer resistance to eighteen different classes of antimicrobials. The most common ARGs conferred resistance to aminoglycosides and sulphonamides and were present in taxa associated with both fish and human pathogens. This ARG diversity potentially confers resistance to a wide variety of antibiotic classes and questions the effectiveness of current and future treatment of diseases with antibiotics in earthen aquaculture ponds. The microbial and ARG compositions between fish ponds within each farm were similar, which may relate to parallels in farming practices creating similar microbial selection pressures and thus comparable microbial populations. Without a more controlled approach towards antibiotic usage, will inevitably further exacerbate the challenges in treating and preventing disease outbreaks as aquaculture production intensifies in Bangladesh.

Highlights

ARGs in Bangladesh rural fishponds indicate resistance to 18 different antibiotics

The most common AMR were to aminoglycosides and sulphonamides

ARGs were present in plasmids and taxa-associated pathogens

Farming practices strongly influence microbial and ARG compositions

Identified ARGs question antibiotic treatment of disease in rural aquaculture
The coarse mental map of the breast is anchored on the nipple
Authors: Long Katie H. , Fitzgerald Emily E. , Berger-Wolf Ev I. , Fawaz Amani , Lindau Stacy Tessler , Bensmaia Sliman J. , Greenspon Charles M.
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Touch plays a key role in our perception of our body and shapes our interactions with the world, from the objects we manipulate to the people we touch. While the tactile sensibility of the hand has been extensively characterized, much less is known about touch on other parts of the body. Despite the important role of the breast in lactation as well as in affective and sexual touch, relatively little is known about its sensory properties. To fill this gap, we investigated the spatial acuity of the breast and compared it to that of the hand and back, body regions that span the range of tactile spatial acuity. First, we found that the tactile acuity of the breast was even lower than that of the back, heretofore the paragon of poor acuity. Second, acuity was lower for larger breasts, consistent with the hypothesis that innervation capacity does not scale with body size. Third, touches to different regions of the nipple were largely indistinguishable, suggesting that the nipple is a sensory unit. Fourth, localization errors were systematically biased toward the nipple and more so at greater distances from the breast.

Significance

Our basic understanding of the tactile capabilities of the breast remains poorly understood in comparison to the hand or face despite the fact that the breast plays a major role in the lives of those with breasts. This paper establishes common methods for studying breast tactile sensation and presents the breast and nipple as two fundamentally discrete tactile units from the torso.
Effect of Methamphetamine on Ultraweak Photon Emission and Level of Reactive Oxygen Species in Male Rat Brain
Authors: Esmaeilpour Tahereh , Lotfealian Azam , Anvari Morteza , Namavar Mohammadreza , Karbalaei Narges , Shahedi Abbas , Bokkon Istvan , Zadeh-Haghighi Hadi , Simon Christoph , Salari Vahid , Oblak Daniel
Published: September 2022

All living cells, including neurons, generate ultra-weak photon emission (UPE) during biological activity, and in particular, in the brain, it has been shown that UPE is correlated with neuronal activity and associated metabolic processes. Various intracellular factors, as well as external factors, can reduce or increase the intensity of UPE. In this study, we have used Methamphetamine (METH) as one potentially effective external factor, which is a substance that has the property of stimulating the central nervous system. METH can impair mitochondrial function by causing toxicity via various pathways, including an increase in the number of mitochondria, hyperthermia, the increased metabolic activity of the brain, and the production of glutamate and excess calcium. In addition to mitochondrial dysfunction, METH alters cellular homeostasis, leading to cell damage and the production of excess ROS. The aim of this study is to measure and compare the UPE intensity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels of the prefrontal, motor, and visual cortex before and after METH administration. Twenty male rats were randomly assigned to two groups, the control, and METH groups. In the control group, 2 hours after injection of normal saline and without any intervention, and in the experimental group 2 hours after IP injection of 20 mg/kg METH, sections were prepared from three areas: prefrontal, motor, and V1-V2 cortex, which were used to evaluate the emission of UPE using a photomultiplier tube (PMT) device and to evaluate the amount of ROS. The results showed that the amount of ROS and UPE in the experimental group in all three areas significantly increased compared to the control group. So, METH increases UPE and ROS in the prefrontal, motor, and visual regions, and there is a direct relationship between UPE intensity and ROS production. Therefore, UPE can be used as a dynamic reading tool to monitor oxidative metabolism in physiological processes related to ROS. Also, the results of this experiment can support the hypothesis that the production of excess UPE may lead to the phenomenon of phosphene and visual hallucinations.
Phage-Assisted, Active Site-Directed Ligand Evolution of a Potent and Selective Histone Deacetylase 8 Inhibitor
Authors: Morse Jared S. , Sheng Yan J. , Hampton J. Trae , Sylvain Lauralee D. , Das Sukant , Alugubelli Yugendar R. , Chen Peng-Hsun Chase , Yang Kai S. , Xu Shiqing , Fierke Carol A. , Liu Wenshe Ray
Published: September 2022

The phage-assisted, active site-directed ligand evolution (PADLE) is a recently developed technique that uses an amber codon-encoded noncanonical amino acid (ncAA) as an anchor to direct phage-displayed peptides to a target for an enhanced ligand identification process. 2-Amino-8-oxodecanoic acid (Aoda) is a ketone-containing ncAA residue in the macrocyclic peptide natural product apicidin that is a pan-inhibitor of Zn2+-dependent histone deacetylases (HDACs). Its ketone serves as an anchoring point to chelate the catalytic zinc ion in HDACs. Using a previously evolved Nε-acetyl-lysyl-tRNA synthetase in combination with tRNAPyl, we showed that Aoda was efficiently incorporated into proteins in Escherichia coli by amber suppression. By propagating an amber codon-obligate phagemid library in E. coli encoding Aoda, we generated an Aoda-containing phage-displayed peptide library. Using this library to conduct PADLE against HDAC8 revealed a 7-mer peptide GH8P01F1 with Aoda-flanking amino acid residues that match existing peptide sequences in identified HDAC8 substrates. Switching Aoda in GH8P01F1 to a more Zn2+-chelating ncAA S-2-amino-8-hydroxyamino-8-oxooctanoic acid (Asuha) led to an extremely potent GH8HA01 that has an HDAC8-inhibition Ki value as 0.67 nM. GH8HA01 and its 5-mer truncation analogue Ac-GH8HA01Δ1Δ7 that has an HDAC8-inhibition Ki value as 0.31 nM represent two most potent HDAC8 inhibitors that have been developed so far and both are highly selective against HDAC8 over the other three tested HDACs, demonstrating the great potential of using PADLE to identify highly potent and selective ligands for targets.
Benchmarking thiolate driven photoswitching of cyanine dyes
Authors: Herdly Lucas , Tinning Peter W. , Geiser Angéline , Taylor Holly , Gould Gwyn W. , van de Linde Sebastian
Published: September 2022

Carbocyanines are among the best performing dyes in singlemolecule localization microscopy (SMLM), but their performance critically relies on optimized photoswitching buffers. As the chemical buffer composition controls the transitions between non-fluorescent off- and fluorescent on-states, it is ultimately linked to the maximum achievable resolution. Here, we describe a workflow for screening optimal buffer conditions for single-molecule photoswitching. This is achieved by creating an intensity gradient within the field of view using a single micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) mirror in the excitation path of the wide-field setup. Photon budget, on-state and off-state lifetimes are studied for different concentrations of mercatoethylamine (MEA) and buffer pH values. Both of MEA concentration and buffer pH determine the amount of thiolate, which is the main requirement for carbocyanine dye photoswitching. We show that thiolate acts as a concentration bandpass filter for the maximum achievable resolution and determine a minimum thiolate concentration of ∼1 mM is necessary to facilitate SMLM measurements. We also identify a concentration bandwidth of 1-16 mM in which the photoswitching performance can be balanced between high molecular brightness and high off-time to on-time ratios. Furthermore, we monitor the performance of the popular oxygen scavenger system based on glucose and glucose oxidase over time and show simple measures to avoid acidification during prolonged measurements. Finally, the impact of buffer settings is quantitatively tested on the distribution of the glucose transporter protein 4 within the plasma membrane of adipocytes. Our work provides a general strategy for achieving optimal resolution in SMLM with relevance for the development of novel buffers and dyes.
Widespread association of the Argonaute protein AGO2 with meiotic chromatin suggests a distinct nuclear function in mammalian male reproduction
Authors: Griffin Kimberly N. , Walters Benjamin William , Li Haixin , Wang Huafeng , Biancon Giulia , Tebaldi Toma , Kaya Carolyn B. , Kanyo Jean , Lam TuKiet T. , Cox Andy L. , Halene Stephanie , Chung Jean-Ju , Lesch Bluma J.
Published: September 2022

Argonaute 2 (AGO2) is a ubiquitously expressed protein critical for regulation of mRNA translation and vital to animal development. AGO2 protein is found in both cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments, and although its cytoplasmic role is well studied, the biological relevance of nuclear AGO2 is unclear. Here, we address this problem in vivo using spermatogenic cells as a model. We find that AGO2 transiently binds both chromatin and nucleus-specific mRNA transcripts of hundreds of genes required for sperm production during male meiosis in mice, and that germline conditional knockout (cKO) of Ago2 causes depletion of the encoded proteins. Correspondingly, Ago2 cKO males show abnormal sperm head morphology and reduced sperm count, along with reduced postnatal viability of offspring. Together, our data reveal an unexpected nuclear role for AGO2 in enhancing expression of developmentally important genes during mammalian male reproduction.
Isopropyl 4-aminobenzoate
Authors: Priyanka Prabhakar , Jayanna Bidarur K. , Kiran Kumar Haruvegowda , Yathirajan Hemmige S. , Divakara Thayamma R. , Foro Sabine , Butcher Ray J.
Published: September 2022

The title compound, C10H13NO2, crystallizes with two molecules (A and B) in the asymmetric unit. For A, the dihedral angle between the plane of the phenyl ring and the i-propyl substituent is 65.4 (3)° while for
B
this angle is 67.8 (3)°. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds to generate double chains propagating in the [100] direction.
The challenge for the digital age: making learning a part of life
Authors: Fischer Gerhard , Lundin Johan , Lindberg Ola J.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The main argument behind this paper is learning in the digital age should not be restricted to creating digital infrastructures for supporting current forms of learning nor taking schools in their current form as God-given, natural entities, but changing current forms of education by developing new frameworks and socio-technical environments for making learning an integral part of life. The authors provide a framework for this argumentation as well as a call-to-action for research on the co-evolution of learning, media, and learning organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper theoretically and argumentatively explores the core assumption that the digitalization of society results in challenges and opportunities for learning and education based on fundamental transformations (Collins and Halverson, 2009; Fischer et al., 2020).

Findings

The digital age greatly enhances the opportunities and supports the necessity for “making learning a part of life”. But while the growth of technology is certain, the inevitability of any particular future is not. The impact of schooling goes beyond that new information about computers, the Internet, and social media are integrated into the schools of today. The transformation of schools needs to be informed by an understanding of the impact of mindset formation that will determine people's approach to learning for the rest of their lives. The authors’ framework is focused on moving “beyond gift-wrapping” by not only fixing and existing systems but to change them and not only reforming but transforming them.

Originality/value

It is the authors’ hope that this article will be of interest to many stakeholders (including learners, teachers, curriculum designers, technology experts, parents, and politicians) and provide a foundation for an ongoing debate and informed actions for “Making Learning a Part of Life” in the digital age.
Burnout: personal and work factors in volunteer and career firefighters
Authors: Dias Paulo C. , Oliveira Íris M. , Rodrigues Anabela , Peixoto Ricardo
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Firefighters are daily confronted with adverse, unpredictable and demanding situations. It is a dangerous profession that puts firefighters at risk of developing burnout. Although the literature has already identified personal and work-related factors of burnout, the examination of specific factors explaining burnout among volunteer and career firefighters is still needed. The purpose of this study is to investigate the explaining role of personal and work-related factors on volunteer and career firefighters’ burnout.

Design/methodology/approach

A nonrandom convenience sample of 250 firefighters (67% volunteer; Mage = 31.88) completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, the Proactive Coping Scale and a standard of living subscale item. Hierarchical multiple linear regression models were tested. Fisher’s criterion was considered, with p-values lower than 0.05 interpreted as statistically significant.

Findings

Personal and work-related factors accounted for 18% of volunteer and 31% of career firefighters’ variations in burnout. Personal factors offered a greater contribution explaining volunteer and career firefighters’ burnout. Still, variations in the role played by age, family responsibilities, proactive coping and satisfaction with standard of living on burnout were found among volunteer and career firefighters. Taking the work-related factors into account, working in rotative shifts constituted a risk factor for career firefighters’ burnout.

Research limitations/implications

This study advances the understanding about the role of personal and work-related factors in volunteer and career firefighters’ burnout.

Originality/value

This study adds information about specific factors explaining burnout among voluntary and career firefighters. It deepens existing knowledge on variations in the role played by age, family responsibilities, work conditions, proactive coping and satisfaction with standard of living on the burnout of volunteer and career firefighters.
Antecedents of freight transportation for sustainable supply chain in the post-COVID era: an emerging market study
Authors: Dwivedi Ashish , Pratap Saurabh , Zhou Fuli
Published: September 2022

Purpose

In past years, the global supply chain has witnessed devastating effects of coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has renewed the interest of the Sustainable Supply Chain (SSC) stakeholders on sustainability. The stakeholders are now rethinking their business processes and strategy to make them sustainable. In this context, the relevant literature is required to support emerging markets to formulate sustainability-focussed strategies. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive analysis of potential antecedents that leads towards sustainable development of freight transportation in emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, the antecedents of the Sustainable Freight Transport (SFT) system are derived from the literature survey followed by verification from the experts. Then, the potential antecedents are categorized under four (social, organizational, operational and environmental) broad categories. Afterwards, a Neutrosophic Analytic Network Process (N-ANP) method is employed to obtain the priority weights of the identified potential antecedents.

Findings

The paper identified and ranked 17 antecedents of the SFT system. According to the study’s findings, the top three antecedents of SFT are “the presence of a multimodal transportation system,” “circularity in SFT” and “traffic congestion management”. The results from the study advocate the promotion of existing multi-modal transport facilities which is promising to achieve sustainability. The results suggested the adoption of the digital twin to manage the transport operations.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on how to achieve sustainability in the freight transportation system post-COVID era highlighting the potential antecedents. The study’s findings will assist practitioners in developing SFT strategies in the face of such pandemics in future.
Virtual money laundering: policy implications of the proliferation in the illicit use of cryptocurrency
Authors: Leuprecht Christian , Jenkins Caitlyn , Hamilton Rhianna
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explain how cryptocurrency is leveraged for illicit purposes across the global financial system. Specifically, it establishes how cryptocurrency has been changing the nature of transnational and domestic money laundering (ML). It then assesses the effectiveness of conventional anti-money laundering (AML) policy and legislation against the proliferation of crypto laundering, using Canada as a critical case study.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from court cases and secondary sources to build cross-case trends of cryptocurrency use in ML. Illicit International Political Economy forms the theoretical foundation for this study, whose contribution is situated in the current literature on crypto-ML.

Findings

This study finds that Bitcoin is common among crypto-money launderers, though most also use some form of alt-coin, and that the use of third-party currency exchanges is a prevalent method to create illicit funds and conceal proceeds of crime. The findings validate two hypotheses that illicit use of crypto is prevalent in the first two stages of ML, and that crypto is most often used in conjunction with other fiat currencies. Although law enforcement is improving on monitoring and understanding popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, alt-coins pose a significant challenge for criminal intelligence. New regulations for third-party currency exchanges are having a positive impact on curtailing crypto-laundering but are shown to be insufficient per se to contain the use of crypto in criminal activity.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a more robust understanding of the use of virtual currency in transnational and domestic ML. It contributes to an emerging body of literature on the role of technological change in enabling the global flow of illicit funds. It also informs public policy on virtual currency in general, and on AML regulation in Canada in particular.
Women on board and the cost of equity: the mediating role of information asymmetry
Authors: Sarang Aitzaz Ahsan Alias , Rind Asad Ali , Al-Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh , Saeed Asif
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether information asymmetry (IA) mediates the relationship between women directors and the cost of equity (COE). Specifically, this study posits that women directors tend to lower the COE through the channel of IA.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the US-listed firms’ data from 2002 to 2014, comprising 11,189 firm-year observations. This study measures the COE by aggregating the four unique market-based COE models and apply pooled ordinary least square to estimate our results.

Findings

This study documents that women directors are linked to IA, and that IA is linked to the COE. Furthermore, in the mediation test, IA fully mediates the relationship between women directors and the COE. This study's results also validate the critical mass hypothesis, as the IA shows full mediation between the critical mass of women directors and COE. This study also discusses the limitations and major implications of the results along with possible future directions.

Social implications

This study also supports the positive role of females in improvising the economic performance of the firms and supporting the sustainable development goals-5 (gender equality).

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its theoretical as well as empirical contributions. First, this study follows the line of inquiry of the mediation analysis, thereby contributing by examining whether the relationship between women directors and financial value, i.e. COE, is indirect. Second, in addition to ex post measures of the COE, this study used four ex ante unique market-based models to measure the COE. Most of the prior studies just rely on book-based measures or use a single market-based mode. Third, the findings contribute insights into how women directors add value and benefits firms.
Risk management practices and credit risk of the significantly supervised European banks
Authors: Qureshi Anum , Lamarque Eric
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the influence of risk management (RM) practices on the credit risk of significantly supervised European banks.

Design/methodology/approach

To avoid regulatory and reporting discrepancies, this paper samples banks that come under the direct supervision of the European Central Bank. Significantly supervised European Banks are selected for the five years from 2013 to 2017. The RM and governance data is manually drawn (from annual reports, registration documents, governance and RM reports), and financial data sets are also used (from Moody’s BankFocus and ORBIS).

Findings

The results indicate that strong risk control and supervision by a powerful chief risk officer (CRO) reduces banks’ credit risk. Banks with sufficiently powerful and independent CROs tend to manage their risks effectively, therefore reporting lower credit risk.

Research limitations/implications

European Union introduced Capital Requirement Directive IV in 2013 and new guidelines on the banks' internal governance in 2017, which were to be implemented in 2018. Thus, this paper limited the sample to five years (from 2013 to 2017) to avoid inconsistencies in the results. Future studies can extend the research and compare banks' credit risk before and after the implementation of regulatory guidelines.

Practical implications

Since the global financial crisis, the regulatory environment has sufficiently changed. Hence, this study reveals that not all RM practices but a few important ones reduce credit risk.

Social implications

Effective risk control and supervision at the bank level can lower credit risk, ultimately enhancing overall financial stability.

Originality/value

Most existing studies focus on classic governance indicators to analyze banks’ credit risk; however, this paper considers risk governance indicators which include RM practices used by European banks. Moreover, existing studies in this line focus on the crisis period of 2007–2008. This paper considered the postfinancial crisis period, specifically after the implementation of the Capital Requirements Directive IV at the European level.
Modeling and analysing the barriers to the acceptance of energy-efficient appliances using an ISM-DEMATEL approach
Authors: Aggarwal Gaurav , Jain Vineet , Ajmera Puneeta , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Electricity savings from energy-efficient appliances (EEAs) may have a significant impact on reducing global warming. There are several barriers confronted by EEAs, which have lowered their acceptance rate. The current study aims to identify and highlight key barriers to strengthening domestic sector adoption of EEAs in developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

In the current study, 13 barriers were discovered by an in-depth literature review and the judgement of experts as well. Further, integrated “interpretive structural modeling” (ISM) and “decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory” (DEMATEL) approaches are used to evaluate barriers. The ISM technique is implemented to categorize barriers into distinct hierarchy levels and “cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification” (MICMAC) analysis to divide barriers among four clusters “independent, linkage, dependent and autonomous.” Moreover, the DEMATEL methodology is applied to classify the barriers among cause and effect clusters.

Findings

The integrated ISM and DEMATEL approach suggests that the topmost influencing barriers to the acceptance of EEAs are the lack of Government policies and initiatives, lack of attractive loan financing and subsidized energy prices.

Practical implications

This study would help researchers, regulators, producers, policymakers and consumers to comprehend the need for additional developments and understand that the adoption of EEAs is a current need. Overall, the results of this study expedite stakeholders with the key barriers that may assist to enhance the acceptance of EEAs within the domestic sector.

Originality/value

An extensive literature survey showed a dearth of studies for the identification, modeling and analysis of barriers collectively. Therefore, the current work used the ISM and DEMATEL approaches to fill the gap and to provide more comprehensive knowledge on barriers related to the acceptance of EEA.
The nexus between investor sophistication and annuity insurance ownership: evidence from FINRA's National Financial Capability Study
Authors: Korankye Thomas , Pearson Blain , Salehi Hossein
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Although annuitization provides insurance against longevity risk that can benefit households, researchers have uncovered an annuitization puzzle, which suggests households are reluctant to annuitize their wealth. This study contributes to the discussions on the annuitization puzzle by examining investor sophistication and owning annuities in non-retirement accounts.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes data from the 2018 U S National Financial Capability Study (NFCS). The empirical analyses are based on logistic regression estimates of annuity ownership on investor sophistication. Interpretations are based on odds ratios.

Findings

The findings indicate that investor sophistication contributes to the annuity puzzle. Investors with low objective and high subjective investment knowledge (overconfident investors) are more likely to own annuities compared to those with low objective and low subjective investment knowledge. However, investors with high objective and low subjective investment knowledge (under-confident investors) are less likely to choose annuity ownership compared to those with low objective and low subjective investment knowledge. The findings and ensuing discussion highlight the importance of annuitization when planning for retirement, with implications for financial service professionals.

Research limitations/implications

The measure of investor sophistication does not assess the difficulty level of each financial knowledge question. The questions used to construct the investor sophistication variable are based on general investment knowledge. In addition, the annuity ownership variable used in this study pertains to investments outside retirement accounts. Despite these limitations, the findings highlight the importance of annuitization when planning for retirement.

Originality/value

Unlike prior studies, the authors consider four mutually exclusive measures of investor sophistication constructed from measures of objective and subjective investment knowledge to understand the effect of investor sophistication on annuity ownership in the United States.
Commentary on “A STOMP-focused evaluation of prescribing practices in one assessment and treatment unit for people with intellectual disabilities”
Authors: Gerrard Dave , Rhodes Jen
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This commentary aims to define STOMP and STAMP, describes its history and evolution and the authors’ thoughts about future directions given the lack of clear evidence base for prescribing and deprescribing psychotropic medication given for behaviour thought to be challenging.

Design/methodology/approach

This commentary defines the authors’ clinical experience and personal thoughts about STOMP achievements and challenges for the future delivery.

Findings

This commentary details STOMP development to date and highlights the potential areas for further study and research to grow understanding, professional confidence and delivery.

Research limitations/implications

This commentary highlights much of the currently accepted research and areas that have poor quality evidence or are of interest for future study. STOMP definition, especially of inappropriate prescribing, is key to redefining the work.

Practical implications

This commentary highlights the potential impact of STOMP and STAMP on prescribing rates and the need for better definition, processes and education for workforce development. There is a major need to understand the benefit of behavioural intervention to support the optimisation of medication.

Originality/value

This commentary builds on personal experience and current understanding to postulate considerations to further the delivery of STOMP and STAMP.
Does IPPM bear fruit? Evaluating reduced‐risk insecticide programmes on pests, pollinators and marketable yield
Authors: Leach Ashley , Pecenka Jacob , Kaplan Ian
Published: September 2022

Integrated pest and pollinator management (IPPM) has been touted as a novel approach to control pests while mitigating negative effects of insecticides on pollinators. In addition to non‐chemical approaches, IPPM programmes focus on insecticide treatments with low bee toxicity, threshold‐based applications and restricted timings to avoid sprays during pollinator foraging. However, the singular and combined effect of this approach on pollination services and pest management is understudied and generally lacks field validation.

In two field studies, we evaluated the effect of IPPM insecticide programmes on striped cucumber beetle (Acalymma vittatum) management, pollination and watermelon yield. The first trial (2020) featured insecticide treatments representing a factorial combination of (1) products varying in bee toxicity (bifenthrin, cyclaniliprole and acetamiprid), (2) application frequencies (weekly vs. threshold‐based) and (3) application timings (AM vs. PM), as well as an untreated control. These data were then used to inform a second trial (2021) that applied two insecticide treatments (IPPM based or grower standard) to commercial‐scale (20–30 acres) fields in collaboration with regional watermelon farms. Weekly beetle densities, pollinator visitation and yield data were collected to determine programme efficacy.

Overall, beetle infestations were successfully managed with all insecticide treatments, none of which compromised marketable yield. In 2020, threshold‐based insecticide programmes offered statistically similar levels of pest control but required 20%–80% fewer applications compared to a weekly programme. Furthermore, pollinator visitation was increased in threshold‐based programmes by ~42% across all products. The on‐farm validation trial in 2021 upheld these findings; IPPM fields had effective beetle control but with 1–7 fewer insecticide applications compared to grower standard fields. IPPM fields also had 62% greater pollinator visitation and 49% more melons during harvest compared to grower standard fields.

Synthesis and applications. Our study demonstrates the capacity of IPPM programmes to manage pests while mitigating negative effects on pollinators. In particular, administering insecticide applications by pest thresholds led to the greatest enhancement in pollinator function. These findings also suggest that growers can benefit from this approach with reduced insecticide costs while encouraging pollination in pollinator‐dependent crops.
Investigating the effects of globalization on economic sophistication in selected African countries
Authors: Nguea Stéphane Mbiankeu , Fotio Hervé Kaffo , Baida Louise Angèle
Published: September 2022

This research investigates the effects of globalization on economic sophistication for 27 African countries over the 1996–2017 period by employing Driscoll and Kraay standard errors and system generalized method of moments. We find that globalization enhances economic sophistication. Accounting for the dimensions of globalization, the results show that economic, social, and political globalization matter for enhancing economic sophistication. Furthermore, the decomposition of economic and social globalization indicates that financial globalization, trade openness, and FDI enhance economic sophistication, whereas Internet usage negatively affects economic sophistication. Policies to sustain the global integration pathway can enhance the diversity and sophistication of products in African countries.
Institutional Change and International Entrepreneurship after the War in Ukraine
Authors: Zahra Shaker A.
Published: September 2022

Recently, the US and its allies have mobilized long‐standing international institutions to sanction Russia and repel its war in Ukraine. This mobilization is likely to change the world order, with long‐term effects on the birth, survival and growth of international new ventures. However, these effects will vary across different regions of the world.
Effects of Medicare eligibility and enrollment at age 65 years on the use of high‐value and low‐value care
Authors: Park Sungchul , Wadhera Rishi K. , Jung Jeah
Published: September 2022

Objective

To examine the effects of Medicare eligibility and enrollment on the use of high‐value and low‐value care services.

Data Sources/Study Setting

The 2002–2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey.

Study Design

We employed a regression discontinuity design, which exploits the discontinuity in eligibility for Medicare at age 65 and compares individuals just before and after age 65. Our primary outcomes included the use of high‐value care services (eight services) and low‐value care services (seven services). To examine the effects of Medicare eligibility, we conducted a regression discontinuity analysis. To examine the effects of Medicare enrollment, we used the discontinuity in the probability of having Medicare coverage around the age eligibility cutoff and conducted an instrumental variable analysis.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

N/A.

Principal Findings

Medicare eligibility and enrollment led to statistically significant increases in the use of only two high‐value services: cholesterol measurement [2.1 percentage points (95%: 0.4–3.7) (2.2% relative change) and 2.4 percentage points (95%: 0.4–4.4)] and receipt of the influenza vaccine [3.0 percentage points (95%: 0.3–5.6) (6.0% relative change) and 3.6 percentage points (95%: 0.4–6.8)]. Medicare eligibility and enrollment led to statistically significant increases in the use of two low‐value services: antibiotics for acute upper respiratory infections [6.9 percentage points (95% CI: 0.8–13.0) (24.0% relative change) and 8.2 percentage points (95% CI: 0.8–15.5)] and radiographs for back pain [4.6 percentage points (95% CI: 0.1–9.2) (36.8% relative change) and 6.2 percentage points (95% CI: 0.1–12.3)]. However, there was no significant change in the use of other high‐value and low‐value care services.

Conclusion

Medicare eligibility and enrollment at age 65 years led to increases in the use of some high‐value and low‐value care services, but there were no changes in the use of the majority of other services. Policymakers should consider refining the Medicare program to enhance the value of care delivered.
Hyposphagma, positional asphyxia, and acute intoxication with psychoactive substances
Authors: Živković Vladimir , Leković Aleksa , Nikolić Slobodan
Published: September 2022

Hyposphagma or subconjunctival hemorrhage is extensive confluent bleeding located between the conjunctiva and episclera. It can develop after trauma or the Valsalva maneuver and hemorrhagic diathesis and vascular diseases, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and diabetes are the predisposing causes. It may also appear as part of the so‐called congestion syndrome of the face and neck in crush or mechanical asphyxia and ligature strangulation, as well as in head‐down positional asphyxia. We present two cases of heavily intoxicated individuals who were both, at the time of death, in the position with their trunks bent at the waist over their thighs and their heads down between the legs. They both had severe facial congestion with pronounced hyposphagma. The formation of extensive subconjunctival bleeding or hyposphagma resulted in hemodynamic dysregulation, a consequence of the head‐down position, with a decreased venous return of blood to the heart. Since it requires preserved circulation, this finding cannot be considered solely as a mere postmortem phenomenon. Thus, in the presented cases, and especially in other cases where the blood level of psychoactive substances alone may be insufficient to explain the death, positional asphyxia, including the head‐down position, could be considered a contributing cause. In such cases, hyposphagma could prove to be a valuable marker of positional asphyxia.
Iran, China and the Persian Gulf: An unfolding engagement
Authors: Shariatinia Mohsen , Kermani Hamed A.
Published: September 2022

Since the ancient Persian empires, Iran has been the key local actor in the Persian Gulf. In the modern era in particular, it has been engaged in periodic struggles for power with the great powers in this region. Therefore, it would be crucial to ask how Iran would evaluate China's increasing engagement in the Persian Gulf, especially its close ties with Iran's archrivals. As history suggests, Iran's relations with great powers in the Persian Gulf, coupled with the dynamics of transition in the international system, may be the most critical factors shaping the Sino–Iranian relations in the Persian Gulf. These two factors shape the emerging Iranian perception of China's presence in the region in three areas. Geostrategically, Iran views China's increasing presence in the Persian Gulf as a new window of opportunity to alleviate its security dilemma. Although Iranian leaders have concerns about military cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia, they trust that China could be a new balancing force against the United States. In the geoeconomic sphere, Iran seeks cooperation with China in two areas to overcome its regional rivals, that is, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates: it wants to become China's number one trading partner in the region and participate as much as possible in China's energy security. Finally, in terms of connectivity and transit, Iranian leaders hope to define their zones of influence in Iraq and Syria as the main route for the Belt and Road Initiative.