bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIPA-CRISPR gene editing in the yellow fever mosquitoAedes aegypti(Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Shirai Yu , Takahashi Momoyo , Ote Manabu , Kanuka Hirotaka , Daimon Takaaki
Published: April 2023

Current methods for gene editing in insects rely on embryonic microinjection, which can be challenging for non-specialist laboratories. Recently, an alternative method known as “direct parental” CRISPR (DIPA-CRISPR) was developed. This method involves injecting commercial Cas9 protein and single-guide RNA into adult females, which can efficiently introduce mutations into developing oocytes. However, its versatility has not been fully explored, particularly in insects that have the most derived, polytrophic meroistic ovaries. In this study, we successfully applied DIPA-CRISPR to the yellow fever mosquitoAedes aegypti, which has polytrophic meroistic ovaries. Following adult injection of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (Cas9 RNPs) targeting the kynurenine 3-monooxygenase gene, we recovered gene-edited G0individuals. Injection at 24 h after blood-feeding resulted in the highest gene editing efficiency (3.5%), confirming that a key parameter of DIPA-CRISPR is the stage in which the adult females are injected. Together with our previous study, we demonstrated that DIPA-CRISPR is applicable to all three types of insect ovaries (i.e., panoistic, telotrophic, and polytrophic), which indicates that DIPA-CRISPR is a generalizable approach for insect gene editing.
A new satellite of manganese revealed by extended-range high-energy-resolution fluorescence detection
Authors: Tran Nicholas T. T. , Sier Daniel , Kirk Tony , Tran Chanh Q. , Mosselmans J. Frederick W. , Diaz-Moreno Sofia , Chantler Christopher T.
Published: April 2023

The discovery of a new physical process in manganese metal is reported. This process will also be present for all manganese-containing materials in condensed matter. The process was discovered by applying our new technique of XR-HERFD (extended-range high-energy-resolution fluorescence detection), which was developed from the popular high-resolution RIXS (resonant inelastic X-ray scattering) and HERFD approaches. The acquired data are accurate to many hundreds of standard deviations beyond what is regarded as the criterion for `discovery'. Identification and characterization of many-body processes can shed light on the X-ray absorption fine-structure spectra and inform the scientist on how to interpret them, hence leading to the ability to measure the dynamical nanostructures which are observable using the XR-HERFD method. Although the many-body reduction factor has been used universally in X-ray absorption spectroscopy in analysis over the past 30 years (thousands of papers per year), this experimental result proves that many-body effects are not representable by any constant reduction factor parameter. This paradigm change will provide the foundation for many future studies and X-ray spectroscopy.
New platform and new excitement? Exploring young educated sport customers' perceptions of watching live sports on OTT services
Authors: Xu Maowei , Li Bo , Scott Olan K.M. , Wang Jerred Junqi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how sports customers adopted over-the-top (OTT) services to consume sport content. Inspired by the technology acceptance model (TAM), the study aims to understand users' behavior when consuming sporting events and users' perceptions toward OTT services.

Design/methodology/approach

The participants of the study are Chinese sports consumers that use streaming services to watch live sport content. An online survey was distributed through HUPU Sports, a Chinese online communication community where sports fans can share opinions. To make sure all responses qualified to take part in the study, skip logic questions were added at the beginning of the questionnaire to ask participants to answer whether they used streaming services for watching sports. A total of 352 responses were received and there were 327 useable questionnaires.

Findings

The results revealed that viewing convenience, free of commercials and viewing quality were the main reasons impacting them to adopt OTT services. In terms of users' perceptions, paid users rated higher in perceived enjoyment, perceived value, perceived usefulness (PU) and ease of use than nonpaid users. OTT users' fandom and PU could predict the time the users spent on using these services, while the users' fandom and perceived value are positively related to the money users spent on these services. In addition, this study also found that users' fandom, perceived value, content quality, and ease of use are positively associated with users' intention to continue to use the service.

Originality/value

The study is one of the first attempts to explore how sports audiences adopted OTT services to consume sport content and explore the audiences' perceptions toward OTT usage. Previous studies have already investigated how users adopted music streaming services (Fernandes and Guerra, 2019) and other online streaming services (Shin and Park, 2021), but little attention has been given to sports streaming services specifically. Therefore, the findings of the study fill the gap in the extant knowledge of sport consumers' behavior and provide more insights to their online behaviors. Moreover, the authors also contribute to the growing digital media literature by advancing our understanding perceptional differences between paid users and unpaid users. The streaming services literature has primarily focused on general users (Fernandes and Guerra, 2019), but the services neglect to understand the differences in between paid and unpaid users.
Achieving software development agility: different roles of team, methodological and process factors
Authors: Rathor Shekhar , Xia Weidong , Batra Dinesh
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Agile principles have been widely used in software development team practice since the creation of the Agile Manifesto. Studies have examined variables related to agile principles without systematically considering the relationships among key team, agile methodology, and process variables underlying the agile principles and how these variables jointly influence the achievement of software development agility. In this study, the authors tested a team/methodology–process–agility model that links team variables (team autonomy and team competence) and methodological variable (iterative development) to process variables (communication and collaborative decision-making), which are in turn linked to software development agility (ability to sense, respond and learn).

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data from one hundred and sixty software development professionals were analyzed using structural equation modeling methods.

Findings

The results support the team/methodology–process–agility model. Process variables (communication and collaborative decision-making) mediated the effects of team (autonomy and competence) and methodological (iterative development) variables on software development agility. In addition, team, methodology and process variables had different effects on the three dimensions of software development agility.

Originality/value

The results contribute to the literature on organizational IT management by establishing a team/methodology–process–agility model that can serve as a basis for developing a core theoretical foundation underlying agile principles and practices. The results also have practical implications for organizations in understanding and managing holistically the different roles that agile methodological, team and process factors play in achieving software development agility.
Toward a comprehensive model for talent identification of faculty members: a qualitative study for regional universities
Authors: Romiani Yones , Farahbakhsh Saeed
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to develop a model for identifying talented faculties in regional universities.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the systematic grounded theory (GT) approach has been used. The research population consisted of academic and scientific experts of higher education system who had more knowledge about the subject of the research. They were identified and selected using a non-probability and purposeful sampling method.

Findings

The paper introduces a talent-based model for identifying faculties in regional universities. Findings show that in regional universities, talent management (TM) theory is rarely used to identify scientific talents. Therefore, to attract capable faculty members, using a comprehensive model based on this concept can be effective and efficient. To achieve the above goal, it is suggested that universities and higher education centers should pay special attention to the components of education, research and counseling when identifying faculty.

Originality/value

This article develops the knowledge about TM in higher education. Given the gap between theory and practice regarding the theory of TM in higher education, this study, with a look at the identity and nature of universities, offers recommendations for attracting faculty members. Implementing the desired model in regional universities gives them the assurance that by attracting capable people, it will be possible to achieve the university development plan.
The effect of IoT capability on supply chain integration and firm performance: an empirical study in the UK retail industry
Authors: Argyropoulou Maria , Garcia Elaine , Nemati Soheila , Spanaki Konstantina
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to use empirical data to examine the hierarchical impact of the Internet of things capability on supply chain integration (SCI), supply chain capability (SCC) and firm performance (FP) in the UK retail industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A deductive approach was employed to carry out this research. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was performed using the partial least square method (SmartPLS 3.3.3) to test theoretical predictions which underlie the relationships among Internet of things capability (IoTC), SCI, SCC and FP. Data are collected using an online survey completed by senior executives of 66 large, medium and small firms within the UK retail industry.

Findings

The empirical results of this research reveal that IoTC has a significant positive effect on the UK retail industry FP through the mediating role of SCI and SCC.

Practical implications

The research results from this study provide useful management insights for firms within the retail industry into the development of effective strategies for integrating their supply chain alongside the adoption of IoTC into SCI, consequently leading to improvements in FP.

Originality/value

Although previous studies have explored the impact of IoT on FP through the sequential mediating role of SCI and SCC, few have explored the impact of the IoT capability (IoTC) on FP through sequential mediators, i.e. SCI and SCC. This study examines the relationship between IoTC, SCI, SCC and FP in the UK retail industry supply chain to address this knowledge gap. Moreover, this study examines the effects of IoTC on FP by applying partial least square (PLS)-SEM techniques. Testing the sequential mediating role of SCI and SCI is undertaken, and the relationships among IoT-enabled SCI and SCC is analysed to improve FP. The robustness check's result through PLSpredict analysis also confirms the power of the model proposed in this study.
Co-creating and evaluating social marketing programs: a living lab approach
Authors: Saleme Pamela , Dietrich Timo , Pang Bo , Parkinson Joy
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper presents a methodological analysis of the co-creation and evaluation of “Biobot Academy” social marketing program to promote socio-emotional skills and prosocial behaviour in children, using a Living Lab method. This paper aims to identify how using a Living Lab method can enhance the co-creation and evaluation of a gamified social marketing program with users and stakeholders. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to apply and further develop a Living Lab framework to guide social marketing program design.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a case study method, the Living Lab process was applied during the development of the gamified social marketing program for promoting socio-emotional skills and prosocial behaviour in children. In total, 28 online and in-person sessions over a two-year period led to program co-creation. Guided by a mixed method approach, testing was conducted in a non-randomised waitlist control trial, while qualitative data from in-game data capture, classroom observations and recordings were collected.

Findings

The application of the Living Lab method warranted improvements, specifically to the front-end and back-end steps of the existing process. While the non-randomised trial indicated effectiveness of the social marketing program across all outcome measures (self-awareness, empathy and prosocial behaviour intentions) compared to control, qualitative findings showed program improvements were needed on three specific aspects, namely, interactivity, user experience and comprehension.

Originality/value

This study provides methodological guidance for the application of the Living Lab method in other social marketing settings to help co-create innovative social marketing solutions with diverse stakeholder groups.
Heterogeneity identification method for surrounding rock of large-section rock tunnel faces based on support vector machine
Authors: Yi Wenhao , Wang Mingnian , Tong Jianjun , Zhao Siguang , Li Jiawang , Gui Dengbin , Zhang Xiao
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to quickly identify significant heterogeneity of surrounding rock of tunnel face that generally occurs during the construction of large-section rock tunnels of high-speed railways.

Design/methodology/approach

Relying on the support vector machine (SVM)-based classification model, the nominal classification of blastholes and nominal zoning and classification terms were used to demonstrate the heterogeneity identification method for the surrounding rock of tunnel face, and the identification calculation was carried out for the five test tunnels. Then, the suggestions for local optimization of the support structures of large-section rock tunnels were put forward.

Findings

The results show that compared with the two classification models based on neural networks, the SVM-based classification model has a higher classification accuracy when the sample size is small, and the average accuracy can reach 87.9%. After the samples are replaced, the SVM-based classification model can still reach the same accuracy, whose generalization ability is stronger.

Originality/value

By applying the identification method described in this paper, the significant heterogeneity characteristics of the surrounding rock in the process of two times of blasting were identified, and the identification results are basically consistent with the actual situation of the tunnel face at the end of blasting, and can provide a basis for local optimization of support parameters.
A systematic evaluation on the competencies of construction supervisors in productivity and performance improvement practices – Sri Lankan perspective
Authors: Manoharan Kesavan , Dissanayake Pujitha , Pathirana Chintha , Deegahawature Dharsana , Silva Renuka
Published: April 2023

Purpose

A rise in productivity is associated with higher profits, competitiveness and the sustainability of an industry and a nation. Recent studies highlight inadequate labour supervision and training facilities as the main causes of productivity-related challenges among construction enterprises. This study aims to evaluate the construction supervisors' capabilities in applying the required elements of work practices for enhancing the performance and productivity of construction operations using a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

A new construction supervisory training programme was developed through comprehensive sequential processes, and 64 construction supervisors underwent training . Marking guides with different levels of descriptions/standards were developed through consultations with experts and literature reviews, and the supervisors' capabilities were assessed under 64 competency elements of 12 competency units.

Findings

The findings show a clear cross-section of all the required competencies of construction supervisors with various levels of standards/descriptions, leading to a new generalised guideline that helps to comprehend what degrees of skills can be taken into account in supervision attributes. Statistical tests and expert reviews were used to ensure the generalisability of the research applications and the reliability of the results.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the study findings being limited to the Sri Lankan construction industry, its applicability could create considerable impacts on the current/future practices of the construction sector in developing countries as well as other developing industries.

Practical implications

The study adds new characteristics and values to construction supervision practices that can be remarkable in encouraging construction supervision to drive the sustainability of construction practices. The study findings are significant in decision-making/planning procedures related to technical comprehension, industry training, scientific documentation, adherence to workforce employment constraints and job outputs. This paper describes the further extensive implications and future scopes of the study elaborately.

Originality/value

This study addresses the knowledge gap in the industry related to the development of protocols and application methodologies necessary to track their performance. The study opens a new window that inflows knowledge attributes to the industry sector along with the necessary comparison of the relevant competency elements to predict/comprehend what levels of capabilities can be theoretically considered and practically applied in supervision characteristics.
Contemporaneous dependence between euro, crude oil, and gold returns and their respective implied volatility changes. Evidence from the local Gaussian correlation approach
Authors: Fousekis Panos
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to assess the contemporaneous dependence between euro, crude oil and gold returns and their respective implied volatility changes.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical analysis relies on daily data for the period 2015–2022 and the local Gaussian correlation (LGC) approach that is suitable for estimating dependence between two stochastic processes at any point of their joint distribution.

Findings

(a) The global correlation coefficients are negative for the euro and crude oil and positive for gold, implying that in the first two markets’ traders are more concerned with sudden price downswings while in the third with sudden upswings. (b) The detailed local analysis, however, shows that traders 2019 attitudes may change with the underlying state of the market and that risk reversals are more likely to occur at the upper extremes of the joint distributions. (c) The pattern of dependence between price returns and implied volatility changes is asymmetric.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first work that uses the highly flexible LGC approach to analyze the link between price returns and implied volatility changes either in stock or in commodities futures markets. The empirical results provide useful insights into traders’ risk attitudes in different market states.
Tequila Arette®
Authors: López-Hernández Carlos , López Francisco , González Ana Cristina
Published: April 2023

Research methodology

The case study is based on a series of in-depth interviews carried out with the owners and directors of the company. The data are complemented by documentary analysis, including descriptions of internal processes and industry information. For the teaching note, the authors opt for an exploratory study using the open-ended approach of grounded theory.

Case overview/synopsis

Arette® is a Mexican family business dedicated to the production and sale of tequila, fusing the artisanal with the new in its production processes. Sales take place mostly in the European and American markets. The foreign market for tequila is very attractive but also very demanding both in terms of financial resources and time. Although the company has managed to enter this market through bars and restaurants, it has not yet managed to reach the final consumers (those who order margaritas in bars). Jaime, Eduardo and Lalo are wondering whether it might be time to invest more resources in ensuring that Arette® is not just a brand for fine cocktails. Until now, their main promotional tool has been word of mouth, and they are not sure what their next step should be – to focus on the international or the domestic market.

Complexity academic level

The case study can be incorporated into undergraduate classes, where it could serve as part of an international marketing course, in particular, as an international sales strategy and implementation session. It can be used to teach basic concepts and their application.

Learning objectives

This case study focuses on the decision that many small companies have to make at some point in their business strategy, which is to focus either on the international or domestic market: The objectives are as follows:

1. To identify the variables that increase or modify the demand for Tequila.

2. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of focusing on a domestic Tequila market or focusing on an international market.

3. Identify the critical variables that a small company faces if it wants to go international such as.

4. Identify if there are forms of diversification for Tequila Arette such as new markets or new products, or both.
From SWOT, a bidimensional diagnostic tool, to a new 3D strategic model
Authors: Cusi Alberto , Ferri Antonella , Micozzi Alessandra , Palazzo Maria
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Stemming from the resource-based view (RBV) approach, this article overcomes the limits of the conventional strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis, setting the basis for the model actual–potential, positive–negative, internal–external (APPNIE). This paper enacts a new framework demonstrating how strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of SWOT can be replaced by actual or potential, positive or negative elements, considered in a dynamic way.

Design/methodology/approach

The traditional SWOT analysis provides only a partial view of the environment and adopts incorrect terminology that can confuse the user, preventing a clear understanding of the factors affecting the organisation’s situation. The authors developed a new tool to help managers in their decision-making processes.

Findings

This study proposes a new tool for assessing the quality of management, resources and environment, which is useful in understanding the economic and social scenario in which a firm is embedded. From a practical point of view, the new tool is applied in the case study, and it shows how managers and students can use it while choosing between alternative options (different strategies, markets, technologies, etc.).

Originality/value

The APPNIE model introduces a new dimension that the SWOT analysis does not consider. Moreover, for each element of the new matrix, the authors propose a plan of action, which is another valuable benefit of the APPNIE model.
Agritourism experience value cocreation impact on the brand equity of rural tourism destinations in China
Authors: Zhou Gefen , Chen Wenkuan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Value cocreation has become an important way to enhance the brand equity of a tourism destination. Different from common tourism contexts, agritourism has strong participatory and productive characteristics and is regarded as a critical platform of value cocreation. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the relationship between agritourism experience value cocreation and brand equity of rural tourism destinations from the perspective of tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was conducted, and 602 valid questionnaires were collected by a random sample in 2021. Structural equation modeling was used to empirically analyze the data.

Findings

The results revealed that tourists’ participation, interaction and citizenship behaviors play a critical role in brand equity of rural tourism destinations. Meanwhile, tourists’ interaction and citizenship behaviors influenced brand equity of rural tourism destinations, via hedonic enjoyment and eudaimonia experience, and perceived experience value. Tourists’ participation behavior influenced brand equity of rural tourism destinations via hedonic enjoyment experience and perceived experience value.

Originality/value

This study focusing on agritourism as a critical platform of value cocreation explores the impact of agritourism experience value cocreation on brand equity of rural tourism destinations from the perspective of tourists. It enriches the existing literature on the relationship between value cocreation and brand equity of tourism destination, expands the research on value cocreation and happiness experience and also provides management basis for promoting brand equity of rural tourism destinations.
Generation Z’s response to the virtual reality advertising in China
Authors: Yu Bin , Fan Fei
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Virtual reality (VR), as a new type of media technology, significantly improves the audience experience with product presentation in the marketing communication field. The apartment rental market, particularly in China, has no exception in adopting VR technology in its communication strategy. VR usage has been boosted since the outbreak of COVID-19 and has become a widespread application in the global apartment rental market. Although extant studies have analyzed how real estate companies use VR technology to enhance customer experience, few studies have been made to explore the power of VR in apartment rental advertising, particularly in targeting the youth in China market. To fill this research gap, this study aims to figure out how young consumers perceive VR advertising and characteristics of VR used in apartment rental advertisements, and how VR advertising affects young consumers’ intentions to rent an apartment.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2021 with 301 Chinese university students aged 18 to 23. All respondents were invited offline and guided to watch one selected rental advertisement with VR technology featuring an apartment of about 50 square meters and then complete a questionnaire.

Findings

VR’s media richness in the apartment rental advertising increases its sense of presence perceived by the survey respondents. Both VR’s media richness and sense of presence positively influence respondents’ attitudes toward the advertised apartment. If respondents evaluate the advertised apartment positively, they are more willing to rent the advertised apartment.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size is not large enough to represent all Generation Z consumers in China. The use of the nonprobability sampling method also limits the generalizability of the study results.

Practical implications

To counter the challenges created by COVID-19, apartment rental service providers and apartment owners/landlords are suggested to enhance the application of VR technology to the apartment rental advertisements to grow young consumers’ interest in the advertised apartments and even their renting intention.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first quantitative study to assess young consumers’ responses to VR apartment rental advertising in China.
Picturing food: the visual style of teen-targeted food marketing
Authors: Ellison Kirsten , Truman Emily , Elliott Charlene
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Despite the pervasiveness of teen-targeted food advertising on social media, little is known about the persuasive elements (or power) found within those ads. This research study aims to engage with the concept of “visual style” to explore the range of visual techniques used in Instagram food marketing to teenagers.

Design/methodology/approach

A participatory study was conducted with 57 teenagers, who used a specially designed mobile app to capture images of the teen-targeted food marketing they encountered for seven days. A visual thematic analysis was used to assess and classify the advertisements that participants captured from Instagram and specifically tagged with “visual style”.

Findings

A total of 142 food advertisements from Instagram were tagged with visual style, and classified into five main styles: Bold Focus, Bespoke, Absurd, Everyday and Sensory.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to an improved understanding about how the visual is used as a marketing technique to capture teenagers’ attention, contributing to the persuasive power of marketing messages.

Originality/value

Food marketing is a significant part of the young consumer’s marketplace, and this study provides new insight into the sophisticated nature of such marketing – revealing the visual styles used to capture the attention of its brand-aware audience.
‘I’m provax’: Pro‐vaccination personal histories and socialities of older Australians in the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: McKenzie Lara , Attwell Katie
Published: April 2023

Vaccination scholarship often explores how social networks foster vaccine refusal and delay, revealing how social and institutional relations produce refusing or delaying parents and un‐ or under‐vaccinated children. It is likewise critical to understand the development of pro‐vaccination orientations by researching those who want to be vaccinated since such attitudes and associated practices underpin successful vaccination programmes. This article explores pro‐vaccination sociality, personal histories and self‐understandings during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia. We draw upon 18 in‐depth interviews with older Western Australians, documenting how they articulate ‘provax’ identities in opposition to those they depict as ‘antivax’ others. Provax identities were clearly anchored in and solidified through social relations and personal histories, as interviewees spoke of ‘likeminded’ friends and families who facilitated each other’s vaccinations and referenced childhood experiences of epidemics and vaccinations. Access barriers relating to the vaccine programme drove interviewees to reimagine their provax status in light of not yet being vaccinated. Thus, interviewees’ moral and ideological understandings of themselves and others were interrelated with supply‐side constraints. We examine the development of self‐proclaimed ‘provaxxers’ (in a context of limited access); how they imagine and enact boundaries between themselves and those they deem ‘antivax’; and possibilities for public health research.
Spoilage Pseudomonas survive common thermal processing schedules and grow in emulsified meat during extended vacuum storage
Authors: Watson Samuel C. , Furbeck Rebecca A. , Fernando Samodha C. , Chaves Byron D. , Sullivan Gary A.
Published: April 2023

Some Pseudomonas species are common meat spoilage bacteria that are often associated with the spoilage of fresh meat. The recently reported ability of these bacteria to also spoil cooked and vacuum packaged meat products has created the need to investigate all potential routes of spoilage they may be able to utilize. The objective of this experiment was to determine if spoilage Pseudomonas spp. survive thermal processing and grow during refrigerated storage under vacuum. Pseudomonas spp. isolates collected from spoiled turkey products were inoculated into a salted and seasoned meat emulsion that was vacuum sealed and thermally treated to final temperatures of 54.4 and 71.1°C to mimic thermal processes commonly used in the meat industry. Samples were stored for a total of 294 days at 4 and 10°C and plated using Pseudomonas spp. specific agar plates. Pseudomonas spp. concentrations were below the detection limit (0.18 log10 CFU/g) immediately after thermal processing and were first recovered from thermally processed samples after 14 days of storage. The final concentration was greater than 2 log10 CFU/g (p < 0.05 compared to post‐thermal processing) in thermally processed treatment groups at the end of storage, indicating that these Pseudomonas spp. isolates were able to survive thermal processing and grow during extended vacuum storage. This raises concerns about the ability of spoilage bacteria to survive the thermal processing schedules commonly used in the meat industry and confirms that some Pseudomonas spp. are capable of thriving in products other than aerobically stored fresh meat.

Practical Application: Spoilage Pseudomonas spp. can survive traditional thermal processing schedules. Heat resistance should be evaluated for commensal and spoilage bacteria to better understand possible ways spoilage of food products may occur.
Wolfberry water extract attenuates blue light‐emitting diode damage to ARPE‐19 cells and mouse retina by activating the NRF2 signaling pathway
Authors: Li Luyi , Chen Wei , Ji Xiaojing , Li Liwei , Wang Huali , Wang Jilite , Qiao Changsheng , Zhang Nan , Guo Yatu , Wang Hao
Published: April 2023

The wolfberry is believed to improve eyesight in traditional Chinese medicine. Soaking wolfberry in thermos cups has become a common health‐preserving practice. The object of this paper was to research the protective effects of wolfberry water extract (WWE) on oxidative injury induced by blue light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) in ARPE‐19 cells and C57BL/6J mice. Wolfberry water extract significantly increased cell viability, reduced ROS production, stabilized mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibited apoptosis in blue LED‐induced cells (P < 0.05). The protective effects of WWE against blue LED‐induced cytotoxicity and ROS accumulation in cells were abolished by transfection with Nrf2 siRNA. In blue LED‐exposed C57BL/6J mice, WWE treatment markedly increased the amplitudes of electroretinogram (ERG) waves a and b, increased the thickness of retinal outer nuclear layer (ONL), activated endogenous antioxidant enzymes, and decreased MDA levels in the retina and lens. WWE also promoted NRF2 translocation and the expression of the downstream genes Ho‐1, Nqo1, Gclc, and Gclm in the retina. The protection of WWE in ERG a and b wave amplitudes and ROS levels were abrogated in Nrf2 knockout mice. These results suggested that WWE has beneficial effects on retinal injury induced by blue LED, and mechanisms of action at least partly via the NRF2 signaling pathway.
Early vegetation recovery following a mid to high‐severity fire in the Andean‐Patagonian forests
Authors: Rago Maria Melisa , Urretavizcaya María Florencia , Morelli Pablo , Mohr Bell Diego , Guzmán Mario
Published: April 2023

A change in fire regimes is occurring worldwide, affecting post‐fire succession. Under this context, there is an increasing need to prioritize restoration areas and focus on their particular goals. To assess the emergent understorey represents the first approximation of post‐fire re‐vegetation, necessary to establish appropriate restoration guidelines. In this study, we aimed to assess the initial post‐fire response in a mid to high‐severity fire in the Andean‐Patagonian forests. We (1) compared plant community structure among fire severities, (2) evaluated the response of plant community structure to the interaction between fire severity and forest type, (3) compared plant composition among fire severity‐forest type categories and (4) evaluated woody species regeneration after fire. We found that the vegetation cover of the lower stratum began to recover early after the fire and to a greater extent in mid than in high severity, whereas the upper stratum was incipient in the mid and nil in high severity. Native species predominated in burned and unburned plots, although they were less in the burned plots. Among the growth form, shrubs and trees were similarly affected by fire, independently of the forest type. Plant community composition varied among most fire severity‐forest type categories. The frequency of woody species regenerated by resprouts and by seeds was lower in burned than unburned plots. These results suggest that although there is an early recovery of vegetation, the high cover of exposed soil and the loss of the upper vegetation stratum may favour erosion and difficult tree establishment. Besides, tree species that only regenerate from seeds will probably not recover naturally. In addition, the presence of exotic species with high invasive risk may need control. Thus, since fire severity and forest type may drive different post‐fire natural recovery scenarios, different restoration actions should be taken to promote resilient systems for the future.
Outcomes of immediate dental implants in vascularised bone flaps for mandibular reconstruction
Authors: Tumuluri Vinay , Leinkram David , Froggatt Catriona , Dunn Masako , Wykes James , Singh Jasvir , Low Tsu‐Hui (Hubert) , Palme Carsten E. , Howes Dale , Clark Jonathan R.
Published: April 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to assess the outcomes of immediate implant placement for dental rehabilitation following mandibular reconstruction with vascularised bone flaps in a single Australian tertiary cancer centre.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent immediate dental implant or delayed placement in vascularised bone flaps was performed. Primary outcome measures assessed included the number of implants placed, operative time, complication rates, time to radiotherapy initiation, dental rehabilitation rates and time to dental rehabilitation.

Results

In total, 187 dental implants were placed in 52 patients, of which 34 patients underwent immediate implant placement and 18 had delayed implant placement. There were no significant differences in the postoperative complication rate (32% immediate vs. 33% delayed, P = 0.89) or time to postoperative radiotherapy (median 42 days immediate vs. 47 days delayed, P = 0.24). Dental rehabilitation was achieved in 62% of the immediate cohort versus 78% of the delayed cohort. The time to be fitted with a dental prosthesis was significantly shorter in the immediate cohort (median 150 days immediate vs. 843 days delayed, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

The placement of immediate dental implants at the time of primary reconstruction of the mandible is a safe procedure and facilitates timely dental rehabilitation.
Trends in management of adult tarsometatarsal joint injuries in a contemporary Australian context: a nationwide study of claims data over 20 years
Authors: Fung Mitchell , Sivakumar Brahman , Jiang Eric , Suthersan Mayuran , Wines Andrew , Mittal Rajat , Symes Michael
Published: April 2023

Background

Traumatic tarsometatarsal joint (TMTJ) injuries are uncommon, but can cause significant morbidity due to delayed or missed diagnosis. Recent evidence highlights the importance of achieving anatomical reduction via operative management. This study aims to analyse trends in rates of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for Lisfranc injuries in Australia according to Nationwide claims data.

Methods

Claims according to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) on ORIF of traumatic TMTJ injuries were collated for the period from January 2000 to December 2020. Paediatric patients were excluded. Two negative binomial models were utilized to analyse the trends in TMTJ injuries over time after controlling for sex, age group and population changes. Results were absolute and per 100 000 population.

Results

7840 patients underwent TMTJ ORIF over the period studied. There was a mean yearly increase of 12% (P < 0.001). Age group (P < 0.001) and year (P < 0.001) were significant predictors for TMTJ fixation, whilst sex was not (P = 0.48). Patients older than 65 years were noted to have a 53% lower rate of TMTJ ORIF per person, when compared to the reference group of 25–34 year‐olds (P < 0.001). Five‐year block analysis revealed increases in rate of fixation for all age groups.

Conclusion

Rates of operative fixation for TMTJ injuries are increasing in Australia. This is likely due to improved diagnostics, understanding of optimal treatment goals, and increased orthopaedic subspecialisation. Further studies with clinical and patient reported outcomes, as well as comparing rates of operative intervention to incidence, will be useful.
Evaluation of targeted implementation interventions for reducing investigations and therapies in infants with bronchiolitis
Authors: Borland Meredith L. , O'Brien Sharon , Tavender Emma , Haskell Libby , Babl Franz E. , Schembri Rachel , Smedley Ben , Mitenko Hugh , Robertson Tim , Mukherjee Ashes , Dalziel Stuart R.
Published: April 2023

Aim

To evaluate the impact of locally adapted targeted implementation interventions on bronchiolitis management through reduction in ineffective investigation and therapies within emergency departments.

Methods

A multi‐centred, quality improvement study in four different grades of hospitals in Western Australia that provide paediatric emergency and inpatient care. All hospitals incorporated an adapted implementation intervention package for infants under 1 year with bronchiolitis. The proportion whose care complied with guideline recommendations to not receive investigations and therapies of minimal benefit were compared to pre‐intervention care in a previous bronchiolitis season.

Results

A total of 457 infants in 2019 (pre‐intervention) and 443 in 2021 (post‐intervention) were included, with mean age of 5.6 months (SD 3.2, 2019; SD 3.0, 2021). In 2019, compliance was 78.1% versus 85.6% in 2021, RD 7.4 (95% CI −0.6; 15.5). The strongest evidence was reduced salbutamol use (compliance improvement: 88.6% to 95.7%, RD 7.1 95% CI (1.7; 12.4)). Hospitals initially at <80% compliance demonstrated greatest improvements (Hospital 2: 95 (78.5%) to 108 (90.8%) RD 12.2 95% CI (3.3; 21.2); Hospital 3: 67 (62.6%) to 63 (76.8%) RD 14.2 95% CI (1.3; 27.2)).

Conclusion

Targeted site‐adapted implementation interventions resulted in improvement in compliance with guideline recommendations, particularly for those hospitals with initial low compliance. Maximising benefits through guidance on how to adapt and effectively use interventions will enhance sustainable practice change.
The role of dominant prairie species ecotypes on plant diversity patterns of restored grasslands across a rainfall gradient in the US Great Plains
Authors: Ren Zhe , Baer Sara G. , Johnson Loretta C. , Galliart Matthew B. , Wilson Laurel R. , Gibson David J.
Published: April 2023

Questions

A robust ecosystem requires a functionally heterogeneous community of organisms with ecological traits that permit broad resource partitioning. Understanding community diversity patterns can help investigate drivers of community assembly and assess restoration success. Do biodiversity patterns differ among grassland communities sown with different ecotypes of dominant species during restoration along a rainfall gradient in the tallgrass prairie of the central US Great Plains?

Location

Four field sites across a rainfall gradient within the North American Great Plains: Colby, Kansas (39°23′17.8″N, 101°04′57.4″W), Hays, Kansas (38°51′13.2″N, 99°19′08.6″W), Manhattan, Kansas (39°08′22.3″N, 96°38′23.3″W), and Carbondale, Illinois (IL, 37°41′47.0″N, 89°14′19.2″W).

Methods

We applied linear mixed models to assess the effect of dominant species ecotype, year, and location on grassland taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity.

Results

The non‐local grass ecotype (compared to the local ecotype) promoted species richness. In contrast, the effect of the dominant species ecotype on phylogenetic or functional diversity was site‐specific over the 10‐year restoration. Richness decreased across the rainfall gradient from dry to moist sites, and the wettest site had the highest phylogenetic and functional diversity.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that abiotic filtering by rainfall is a key assembly mechanism that could predict grassland changes in biodiversity in the early restoration phases. Given the community response across the tallgrass prairie, restoration practitioners should consider the impact of regional sources of dominant species used in restoration when biodiversity is a restoration goal. It is recommended for future grassland restoration to detect gaps and limitations in evolutionary and trait structure that will reveal which diversity components to evaluate.
Vegetation change in acidic dry grasslands in Moravia (Czech Republic) over three decades: Slow decrease in habitat quality after grazing cessation
Authors: Harásek Martin , Klinkovská Klára , Chytrý Milan
Published: April 2023

Aims

Shallow soils on acidic bedrock in dry areas of Central Europe support dry grasslands and heathlands that were formerly used as extensive pastures. These habitats are of high conservation value, but their abandonment in the 20th century triggered slow natural succession that poses a threat to specialized plant species. We asked how this vegetation and its plant diversity have changed over the past three decades and whether protected areas have positively affected habitat quality.

Location

Southwestern and central Moravia, Czech Republic.

Methods

In 2018–2019, we resurveyed 94 vegetation plots first sampled in 1986–1991 at 47 acidic dry grassland and heathland sites. We compared the number of all vascular plant species, Red List species and alien species per plot using parametric and non‐parametric tests, life‐form spectra using the chi‐square test, species composition using detrended correspondence analysis, and indicator values using a permutation test. We also compared these changes between sites within and outside protected areas.

Results

Vegetation changes over the past three decades have been relatively small. However, we detected a decrease in total species richness, the number of Red List species and the number of characteristic species of dry grasslands. Neophytes were infrequent, while archaeophytes increased slightly. The competitive tall grass Arrhenatherum elatius, annual species and young woody plants increased in abundance or newly established at many sites. Indicator values did not change except for a slight increase in nutrient values. These negative trends occurred both within and outside protected areas but were more pronounced outside.

Conclusions

Formerly grazed acidic dry grasslands and heathlands in Moravia are slowly losing habitat specialists, including threatened plant species, and are increasingly dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius. Conservation management, especially cutting in protected areas, slows down the negative trends of decline in plant diversity and habitat quality but is insufficient to halt these processes completely.