bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual similarity solutions because of mixed convective flow of a double-nanoparticles hybrid nanofluid: critical points and stability analysis
Authors: Pop Ioan , Nademi Rostami Mohammadreza , Dinarvand Saeed
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to study the steady laminar magnetohydrodynamics mixed convection stagnation-point flow of an alumina-graphene/water hybrid nanofluid with spherical nanoparticles over a vertical permeable plate with focus on dual similarity solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The single-phase hybrid nanofluid modeling is based on nanoparticles and base fluid masses instead of volume fraction of first and second nanoparticles as inputs. After substituting pertinent similarity variables into the basic partial differential equations governing on the problem, the authors obtain a complicated system of nondimensional ordinary differential equations, which has non-unique solution in a certain range of the buoyancy parameter. It is worth mentioning that, the stability analysis of the solutions is also presented and it is shown that always the first solutions are stable and physically realizable.

Findings

It is proved that the magnetic parameter and the wall permeability parameter widen the range of the buoyancy parameter for which the solution exists; however, the opposite trend is valid for second nanoparticle mass. Besides, mass suction at the surface of the plate as well as magnetic parameter leads to reduce both hydrodynamic and thermal boundary layer thicknesses. Moreover, the assisting flow regime always has higher values of similarity skin friction and Nusselt number relative to opposing flow regime.

Originality/value

A novel mass-based model of the hybridity in nanofluids has been used to study the foregoing problem with focus on dual similarity solutions. The results of this paper are completely original and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the numerical results of the present paper were never published by any researcher.
Dynamic response and parameter analysis on the vehicle–bridge coupling of cable-stayed bridge under over-limit transportation
Authors: Lu Yao , Li Dejian , Wang Kai , Li Zhen
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Over-limit transportation has the characteristics of large axle load, large number of axles and lateral distribution width. Under the action of over-limit load, the coupling vibration effect of vehicle–bridge is more obvious, and the deformation of bridge components is large. Thus, research and analysis of the vehicle–bridge coupling dynamic response of long-span bridges under over-limit transportation has practical engineering significance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the principle of invariable elastic potential energy, this paper derives dynamic model of over-limit transportation n-axis flat vehicle. The numerical simulation method is used to model and calculate a cable-stayed bridge, and the static effect of the cable-stayed bridge and the dynamic response of vehicle–bridge coupling under different parameters are compared and analyzed.

Findings

The focus is on the influence of vehicle load and vehicle velocity parameters on the stress and amplitude of different cables under over-limit transportation, and the corresponding variation law is obtained.

Originality/value

The research on the coupled dynamic response of cable-stayed bridges has attracted the attention of many scholars, but there are relatively few studies on the coupled vibration of out-limit vehicles and bridges. In this paper, based on finite element software, a vehicle–bridge coupling model under bulk transportation is established.
Does bank governance affect risk and efficiency? Evidence from Islamic banks in GCC countries
Authors: Srairi Samir , Bourkhis Khawla , Houcine Asma
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The motivation of the study is to shed further light on the question of whether the governance structure of Islamic banks (IBs) has an impact on the efficiency and risk of Islamic banks operating in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) after the global financial crisis and during the period 2010–2018. This study aims to examine the extent of governance structure on the efficiency and risk of IBs as the effect of the financial crisis has been less on IBs. In addition, the authors are interested in the GCC region as it represents the hub of Islamic finance.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors examine how the banking governance structure affects the risk-taking and performance of IBs in the GCC countries between 2010 and 2018. The authors construct a banking governance index (CGI) composed of sub-indices for the board structure, risk management, transparency and disclosure, audit committee, Sharia supervisory board and investment account holders. Unlike the majority of previous studies, bank performance is measured with technical efficiency scores using a data envelopment analysis and the authors use a comprehensive CGI.

Findings

The results show that IBs in GCC countries adhere to 54% of the attributes covered in the CGI. The authors also note a lack of disclosure regarding the investment account holders and the audit committee. As well, the results indicate that bank governance is positively associated with risk-taking and bank efficiency. Banking risk is influenced by the Sharia board and risk management while bank efficiency is affected by the characteristics of the board structure and investment account holders.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that has developed a comprehensive governance index for IBs in GCC countries that includes a wide range of governance dimensions. The study contributes to the literature on governance in the banking sector by simultaneously examining its impact on the risk-taking and efficiency of IBs and recognizes the dynamic relation between these three variables for IB.
Informal sellers and formal markets: a habitus gap
Authors: Pels Jaqueline , Araujo Luis , Kidd Tomas Andres
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In developing economies, 30% of the gross domestic product on average is undertaken by unregistered businesses. The informal economy leads to high opportunity costs by preventing gains from trade with strangers. To overcome this obstacle, sellers who usually operate in the informal economy should strive to move to formal markets. Current theories are drawn from a view of markets as institutions governed by formal and informal rules. In a nutshell, informal-formal market transitions must be met with a regulative solution. However, the overall results have been disappointing. This failure invites a re-diagnosis of the problem that informal sellers face to act in formal markets and suggesting novel solutions. This paper aims to address this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper. The authors adopt MacInnis’s (2011) framework to characterize the approach to theory development.

Findings

The authors argue that extant views of formal/informal markets differences address only one of Scott’s (2014) three pillars (regulative, normative and cultural-cognitive). By drawing on Bourdieu’s legacy, the authors propose a cultural-cognitive reading of institutions and suggest it offers a lens to understand the problem as an access challenge, and thus a marketing problem. This perspective allows us to conceptualize informal/formal markets as two distinct institutional fields and argues that all individuals inhabit a particular habitus and contend that moving between markets requires a habitus shift. Thus, acting in formal markets involves bridging a habitus gap. Finally, the authors argue the need for a market-facing intermediary that takes on a market habitus bridging role.

Research limitations/implications

The authors suggest future research efforts could benefit from this new conceptual lens as a means of re-diagnosing other forms of market access that have produced disappointing results.

Practical implications

By looking at differences between formal and informal markets as a habitus gap, the allocation of public funds to support transitions can be better targeted and spent.

Social implications

The concept of market-facing intermediaries suggests that the beneficiary (e.g. informal seller) and target populations can be different. This insight could catalyze social innovation and trigger novel perspectives to design systemic solutions.

Originality/value

Conceptualizing the formal-informal market transition as a habitus gap suggests new directions to resolve access challenges and a new mediator solution.
Empowering value co-creation in the digital age
Authors: Barile Sergio , Bassano Clara , Piciocchi Paolo , Saviano Marialuisa , Spohrer James Clinton
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Technology is revolutionizing the management logic of service systems. The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI), in particular, is challenging interaction between humans and machines changing the service systems’ value co-creation configurations and logic. To envision possible future scenarios, this paper aims to reflect upon how the humans’ use of AI technology can impact value co-creation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is developed, at a conceptual level, using selected elements from managerial and marketing theoretical frameworks interested in value co-creation – Service-Dominant Logic, Service Science and Viable Systems Approach (VSA) – used as interpretative tools to reframe value co-creation in the digital age.

Findings

The interpretative approach adopted and, in particular, the new VSA notion of Intelligence Augmentation (IA), in the perspective of the information variety model, shed new light on value co-creation in the digital age framing a possible “IA effect” that can empower value co-creation in complex decision-making contexts.

Practical implications

The study provides insights useful in the design and management of service systems suggesting a rethinking of the view of AI as a means for mainly increasing the smartness of service systems and a new focus on the enhancement of the human resources contribution to make the service systems wiser.

Originality/value

The paper provides a refocused interpretative view of the interaction between humans and AI that looks at a possible positive impact of the use of AI on humans in terms of augmented decision-making capabilities in conditions of complexity.
A review on the performance characteristics, applications, challenges and possible solutions in electron beam melted Ti-based orthopaedic and orthodontic implants
Authors: Ishfaq Kashif , Rehman Mudassar , Khan Ahmed Raza , Wang Yanen
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Human aging is becoming a common issue these days as it results in orthopaedic-related issues such as joints disorderness, bone-fracture. People with age = 60 years suffer more from these aforesaid issues. It is expected that these issues in human beings will ultimately reach 2.1 billion by 2050 worldwide. Furthermore, the increase in traffic accidents in young people throughout the world has significantly emerged the need for artificial implants. Their implantation can act as a substitute for fractured bones or disordered joints. Therefore, this study aims to focus on electron beam melted titanium (Ti)-based orthopaedic implants along with their recent trends in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

The main contents of this work include the basic theme and background of the metal-based additive manufacturing, different implant materials specifically Ti alloys and their classification based on crystallographic transus temperature (includingα, metastableβ,βandα+βphases), details of electron beam melting (EBM) concerning its process physics, various control variables and performance characteristics of EBMed Ti alloys in orthopaedic and orthodontic implants, applications of EBMed Ti alloys in various load-bearing implants, different challenges associated with the EBMed Ti-based implants along with their possible solutions. Recent trends and shortfalls have also been described at the end.

Findings

EBM is getting significant attention in medical implants because of its minor issues as compared to conventional fabrication practices such as Ti casting and possesses a significant research potential to fabricate various medical implants. The elastic modulus and strength of EBMed ß Ti-alloys such as 24Nb-4Zr-8Sn and Ti-33Nb-4Sn are superior compared to conventional Ti for orthopaedic implants. Beta Ti alloys processed by EBM have near bone elastic modulus (approximately 35–50 GPa) along with improved tribo-mechanical performance involving mechanical strength, wear and corrosion resistance, along with biocompatibility for implants.

Originality/value

Advances in EBM have opened the gateway Ti alloys in the biomedical field explicitlyß-alloys because of their unique biocompatibility, bioactivity along with improved tribo-mechanical performance. Less significant work is available on the EBM of Ti alloys in orthopaedic and orthodontic implants. This study is directed solely on the EBM of medical Ti alloys in medical sectors to explore their different aspects for future research opportunities.
QMS external quality auditors’ education framework: findings from an iterative Delphi study
Authors: Ab Wahid Roslina , Grigg Nigel Peter
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the development of an open curriculum framework of external quality auditors (EQAs) education. The study was commissioned by accreditation body JAS-ANZ, with the objective of improving EQA audit performance, resulting in more effective audits that can add value to client organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The key sets of knowledge, skills and attributes that auditors should possess were identified from the literature and an initial survey, and validated through several rounds of experts' opinion using the Delphi technique. The Delphi panel consisted of: top managers; quality practitioners; academicians; quality auditors, consultants and managers; a financial auditor and other managers. Kendall's coefficient of concordance (Kendall's W) was used to measure the level of agreement of the experts' ranking scores.

Findings

Panelists believed there is a need for EQAs to be more broadly grounded in certain knowledge, skills, and attributes. The knowledge requirements for EQAs were: audit principles, process and methods; quality management principles, system, and standards; risk management; business process and operations management; applicable legal, regulatory and contractual requirements; strategic planning; and performance measurement. EQAs need strong skills in communication, auditing, people relations, critical thinking, report writing, leadership, coaching and coordination. The attributes considered essential are objectivity, integrity, ethics and professionalism; being observant, perceptive, articulate and confident; having good judgement; being flexible, adaptive, diplomatic, fair and open-minded. Based on these outcomes, the curriculum framework of EQAs was developed.

Originality/value

This study highlights the core elements required in a syllabus to prepare EQAs for value-added auditing in the present and future. The educational framework can be adopted by accreditation and certification bodies to evaluate and improve their auditors' audit performance.
Assessment of quality performance in the Egyptian manufacturing industry
Authors: ElMelegy Ahmed Rashad , Alnajem Mohamad , Albuloushi Nour
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the quality performance of the Egyptian manufacturing industry based on Flynn's quality management practices framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature-based questionnaire was developed to collect the research data. The sample studied included 193 professionals from different manufacturing firms in Egypt. The research model utilized seven first-order constructs to measure infrastructure and core quality practices and the model was analyzed by structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results of the study showed that infrastructure practices had a positive effect on core quality practices, which in turn, significantly influenced quality performance. The findings confirmed that Egyptian manufacturing firms have a good foundation of quality management practices enabling them to improve quality performance.

Practical implications

This study provides a foundation for Egyptian manufacturing firms to develop a practical plan for implementing total quality management (TQM). In addition, the results of this study will help managers and policy makers develop a thorough understanding of the current status of TQM initiatives, enablers and barriers in Egypt.

Originality/value

The study represents one of the few attempts to examine quality practices and quality performance in the manufacturing sector in Egypt. To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first study to examine these parameters in this context in Egypt.
The Supposed Burning of the Racovian Catechism in 1614: A Historiographical Myth Exposed
Authors: Hessayon Ariel , Lucci Diego
Published: September 2021

The Racovian catechism is a famous summary treatise of Socinian thought. It was written in the early seventeenth century by several members of the Minor Reformed Church of Poland. It is a common misconception that, upon reading the Latin edition of the Racovian catechism, which was dedicated to him, King James VI & I consigned it to the flames in 1614. Indeed, a comprehensive list of scholars who have repeated this mistake would take up too much space. Accordingly, the purpose of this article is first and foremost to demonstrate that the Racovian catechism was not burnt in England in 1614. This historiographical myth originated and was transmitted because of a series of misunderstandings occurring since the 1670s, whereas not one primary source testifies to the burning of the catechism in England during James's reign. In the process, we will provide essential context, examining relevant developments not only in the British Isles, but also in the Dutch Republic and the Polish‐Lithuanian Commonwealth. Moreover, we will argue that there is no evidence to support the claim that an edition of the Racovian catechism was secretly printed in England shortly after the supposed burning of 1614, although some subsequent editions of the catechism bore a false imprint and had a connected publishing history. Finally, we will explain how these erroneous assumptions entered the historical record together with their subsequent transmission. Our conclusion is that the early history of anti‐Trinitarianism and Socinianism in England must be rewritten.
A unified model of species abundance, genetic diversity, and functional diversity reveals the mechanisms structuring ecological communities
Authors: Overcast Isaac , Ruffley Megan , Rosindell James , Harmon Luke , Borges Paulo A. V. , Emerson Brent C. , Etienne Rampal S. , Gillespie Rosemary , Krehenwinkel Henrik , Mahler D. Luke , Massol Francois , Parent Christine E. , Patiño Jairo , Peter Ben , Week Bob , Wagner Catherine , Hickerson Michael J. , Rominger Andrew
Published: September 2021

Biodiversity accumulates hierarchically by means of ecological and evolutionary processes and feedbacks. Within ecological communities drift, dispersal, speciation, and selection operate simultaneously to shape patterns of biodiversity. Reconciling the relative importance of these is hindered by current models and inference methods, which tend to focus on a subset of processes and their resulting predictions. Here we introduce massive ecoevolutionary synthesis simulations (MESS), a unified mechanistic model of community assembly, rooted in classic island biogeography theory, which makes temporally explicit joint predictions across three biodiversity data axes: (i) species richness and abundances, (ii) population genetic diversities, and (iii) trait variation in a phylogenetic context. Using simulations we demonstrate that each data axis captures information at different timescales, and that integrating these axes enables discriminating among previously unidentifiable community assembly models. MESS is unique in generating predictions of community‐scale genetic diversity, and in characterizing joint patterns of genetic diversity, abundance, and trait values. MESS unlocks the full potential for investigation of biodiversity processes using multidimensional community data including a genetic component, such as might be produced by contemporary eDNA or metabarcoding studies. We combine MESS with supervised machine learning to fit the parameters of the model to real data and infer processes underlying how biodiversity accumulates, using communities of tropical trees, arthropods, and gastropods as case studies that span a range of data availability scenarios, and spatial and taxonomic scales.
A Review of Corporate Social Responsibility and Reputational Costs in the Tax Avoidance Literature*
Authors: Krieg Kimberly S. , Li John
Published: September 2021

In recent years, academic researchers, policymakers, and the public have increasingly focused on the tax avoidance behavior of corporations. At the same time, firms are increasingly pressured to incorporate corporate social responsibility (CSR) into their decision making, leading to heightened academic interest in CSR. Given that opponents of corporate tax avoidance often argue that avoiding tax is socially irresponsible, we review the growing literature surrounding this issue. We begin with a theoretical review of how corporate tax avoidance fits into the CSR framework. We then review the empirical evidence on the interrelationship between CSR and firm reputation in the tax avoidance literature. We frame our review around three questions: (i) Do firms view tax avoidance as a CSR issue? (ii) Do stakeholders view tax avoidance as socially irresponsible, leading to reputational costs of tax avoidance? And (iii) Do firms change their tax avoidance behavior due to fear of these reputational consequences? Throughout our review, we provide discussions on the state of the current literature and offer suggestions for future research opportunities.
Synthesis and activities of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
Authors: Zhou Shiyang , Huang Gangliang
Published: September 2021

Cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitors can be divided into two categories: acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors and butylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibitors. Therefore, the development of selective inhibition of AChE and BuChE activities is the central content of ChE pharmacochemistry research. In order to clarify the progress of AChE inhibitor‐based design, synthesis, and activity studies, we reviewed the pharmacochemical and pharmacological properties of selective AChE inhibitors over the past decade. We hope that this review will make it easier for readers to understand the development of new drug chemistry methods for AChE inhibitors in order to develop more effective and selective AChE inhibitors.
Hypersensitivity may be involved in severe COVID‐19
Authors: Tan Cuiyan , Zheng Xiaobin , Sun Fengfei , He Jianzhong , Shi Honglei , Chen Meizhu , Tu Changli , Huang Yiying , Wang Zhenguo , Liang Yingjian , Wu Jian , liu Ye , Liu Jing , Huang Jin
Published: September 2021

Background

Deaths attributed to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) are mainly due to severe hypoxemic respiratory failure. Although the inflammatory storm has been considered the main pathogenesis of severe COVID‐19, hypersensitivity may be another important mechanism involved in severe cases, which have a perfect response to corticosteroids (CS).

Method

We detected the serum level of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2–spike S1 protein‐specific IgE (SP‐IgE) and anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein‐specific IgE (NP‐IgE) in COVID‐19. Correlation of levels of specific IgE and clinical severity were analysed. Pulmonary function test and bronchial provocation test were conducted in early convalescence of COVID‐19. We also obtained histological samples via endoscopy to detect the evidence of mast cell activation.

Result

The levels of serum SP‐IgE and NP‐IgE were significantly higher in severe cases, and were correlated with the total lung severity scores (TLSS) and the PaO2/FiO2 ratio. Nucleocapsid protein could be detected in both airway and intestinal tissues, which was stained positive together with activated mast cells, binded with IgE. Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) exists in the early convalescence of COVID‐19. After the application of CS in severe COVID‐19, SP‐IgE and NP‐IgE decreased, but maintained at a high level.

Conclusion

Hypersensitivity may be involved in severe COVID‐19.
Pathogenic variants in the survival of motor neurons complex gene GEMIN5 cause cerebellar atrophy
Authors: Saida Ken , Tamaoki Junya , Sasaki Masayuki , Haniffa Muzhirah , Koshimizu Eriko , Sengoku Toru , Maeda Hiroki , Kikuchi Masahiro , Yokoyama Haruna , Sakamoto Masamune , Iwama Kazuhiro , Sekiguchi Futoshi , Hamanaka Kohei , Fujita Atsushi , Mizuguchi Takeshi , Ogata Kazuhiro , Miyake Noriko , Miyatake Satoko , Kobayashi Makoto , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: September 2021

Cerebellar ataxia is a genetically heterogeneous disorder. GEMIN5 encoding an RNA‐binding protein of the survival of motor neuron complex, is essential for small nuclear ribonucleoprotein biogenesis, and it was recently reported that biallelic loss‐of‐function variants cause neurodevelopmental delay, hypotonia, and cerebellar ataxia. Here, whole‐exome analysis revealed compound heterozygous GEMIN5 variants in two individuals from our cohort of 162 patients with cerebellar atrophy/hypoplasia. Three novel truncating variants and one previously reported missense variant were identified: c.2196dupA, p.(Arg733Thrfs*6) and c.1831G > A, p.(Val611Met) in individual 1, and c.3913delG, p.(Ala1305Leufs*14) and c.4496dupA, p.(Tyr1499*) in individual 2. Western blotting analysis using lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from both affected individuals showed significantly reduced levels of GEMIN5 protein. Zebrafish model for null variants p.(Arg733Thrfs*6) and p.(Ala1305Leufs*14) exhibited complete lethality at 2 weeks and recapitulated a distinct dysplastic phenotype. The phenotypes of affected individuals and the zebrafish mutant models strongly suggest that biallelic loss‐of‐function variants in GEMIN5 cause cerebellar atrophy/hypoplasia.
Clinical cost evaluation and health benefits of post‐bariatric intervention for patients with type 2 diabetes living in the UK
Authors: Alkharaiji Mohammed , Anyanwagu Uchenna , Crabtree Thomas , Gordon Jason , Idris Iskandar
Published: September 2021

To assess associated healthcare costs and risk of developing obesity‐related comorbidities among patients with type 2 diabetes with severe obesity and receiving insulin treatment, following bariatric surgery (BS). A retrospective cohort study was conducted from a UK electronic primary care database. Propensity score matching (1:1) was performed for BS with non‐BS cohort. Follow‐up was over 5 years (694 person‐years), comparing drug utilization with clinical cost differences, such as visits to General practitioners (GPs), hospitalization, and laboratory use. Cox proportional regression was used to compute differences in the risk of obesity‐related comorbidities and chi‐square analysis to explore differences in insulin independency and diabetes remission proportions during follow‐up. Eighty patients who received BS were matched to 80 non‐BS (N = 160). The baseline mean age was 48.3 years (SD: 12.9) (61% female), and body mass index was 39.3 kg/m2 (SD: 9.3). During follow‐up, antidiabetic drug cost was significantly lower in the BS group than in the non‐BS (median cost/person [£]: 527.77 [interquartile range (IQR): 1196.11] vs. 1564.13 [IQR: 1576.01]; p < 0.001). Overall, aggregate cost analysis showed a significant total healthcare cost reduction in the BS group (median cost/person [£]: 1597.96 [IQR: 2631.84] vs. 2440.12 [IQR: 2242.95]; p = 0.050). BS significantly protected against obesity‐related comorbidities compared with the non‐BS (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.56; 95% confidence interval: 0.32–0.96; p = 0.036) and increased insulin independency throughout all follow‐up points: at year 5: 48.1% versus 28.9%; p = 0.044, respectively. While BS shows evidence of cost efficiency, cost saving was not identified. The efficiency is evident by the protective effect against crude obesity‐related comorbidities associated with increased insulin independency.
Do Apis and non‐Apis bees provide a similar contribution to crop production with different levels of pollination dependency? A review using meta‐analysis
Authors: Junqueira Camila Nonato , Pereira Rodrigo Augusto Santinelo , da Silva Rafael Carvalho , Alves Cardoso Kobal Renan Oliveira , Araújo Thayane Nogueira , Prato Amanda , Pedrosa Jéferson , Martínez‐Martínez Carlos A. , Castrillon Kevin Palmera , Felício Daniel Tirapeli , Ferronato Petra , Augusto Solange Cristina
Published: September 2021

1. Recent studies have demonstrated that the richness of pollinators in crop systems can improve productivity due to the effect of functional trait differences between species. These findings reinforce the potential effectiveness of integrated management of both Apis and non‐Apis bees to ensure global crop yields.

2. Thus, we used meta‐analysis techniques to synthesise published literature on crop pollination and verify whether Apis and non‐Apis bees perform equivalent contributions to worldwide crop production considering the differences in both functional traits of these bees and pollination requirements of the crops. We expected that pollination by both Apis and non‐Apis bees would contribute to enhancing all crop production measures (fruit/seed weight, fruit/seed yield, no. fruit/seed, and pollination/fertilisation) independently of levels of pollination dependency.

3. The final database used in the meta‐analysis included 33 published studies, reporting 72 independent pollination experiments of A. mellifera and non‐Apis bees on crop production, including fruits, vegetables, spices, and oil crops. As expected, our results demonstrated that crop production was greater with bee pollination regardless of being provided by Apis or non‐Apis species. We also observed a stronger positive effect on flower pollination/fertilisation and production of crops with essential/great dependency on pollination.

4. The overall analysis of the contribution of Apis and non‐Apis bees to crop production indicated that both groups are essential for the maintenance of agricultural production.
First molecular detection of Babesia gibsoni in a horse
Authors: Karnik M. , Kumar A. , Shabir Khaki A. , Mirza H.
Published: September 2021

Equine babesiosis in India has always been a severe and life‐threatening disease attributed to infection with Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. These organisms are not host‐specific, as both T. equi and B. caballi are reported in dogs. Likewise, Babesia canis canis and Babesia canis rossi, the common causative agents in canines, have also been identified in horses. However, no molecular evidence of Babesia gibsoni has been reported in horses in India. A 5‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding residing in Bengaluru showed signs of recurrent intermittent fever, inappetence, poor performance, anaemia and depression. A regular complete blood count and biochemical profile were done, however, the results were unresponsive to treatment interventions. The blood sample was submitted for screening equine haemoprotozoans using polymerase chain reaction. The current blood sample was screened for haemoprotozoans. The sample was positive for B. gibsoni and was confirmed by sequencing. Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) search against GenBank revealed the highest similarity (95.17%, Accession No. MN385430.1) with B. gibsoni 18s rRNA partial sequence.
Vascular air embolisation and expansile sphenopalatine sinus haematoma secondary to a fracture of the rostral skull in a horse
Authors: Easton‐Jones C. A. , Marr C. M. , Peter V. G. , Foote A. K.
Published: September 2021

A 13‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding presented with acute onset respiratory distress, muscle fasciculations and ataxia during ridden exercise. On physical examination, the horse was extremely distressed and had a markedly increased respiratory rate of 92 breaths/min and heart rate of 82 beats/min. Auscultation of the thorax revealed adventitious sounds throughout the lung fields. A continuous, loud, splashing (‘water‐wheel’) murmur was evident on cardiac auscultation. A diffuse, marked interstitial and patchy alveolar pattern was present on thoracic radiographs and comet tail artefacts were found on thoracic ultrasonography. Echocardiography showed air embolisation, with the right ventricle and atrium markedly opacified with air bubbles. The horse deteriorated despite treatment with intranasal oxygen therapy, anti‐inflammatories, antimicrobials, diuretics and glycopyrrolate. Post‐mortem examination identified an expansile haematoma of the sphenopalatine sinus secondary to a rostral fracture of the skull, a previously unreported differential for vascular air embolism in the horse.
The induction of inflammation by the cGAS–STING pathway in human dental pulp cells: A laboratory investigation
Authors: Tian Xinxin , Liu Chao , Wang Zhongquan
Published: September 2021

Aim

To explore the presence of the cGAS–STING inflammatory pathway in human pulp tissue and human dental pulp cells (HDPCs).

Methodology

Pulp tissue was collected from freshly extracted human healthy third molars or third molars with irreversible pulpitis. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) were performed to assess IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6. Human dental pulp cells prepared from healthy human pulp tissues were transfected with interferon stimulatory DNA (ISD), bacterial genomic DNA, bacterial cyclic dinucleotides c‐di‐AMP, c‐di‐GMP or host cyclic dinucleotide cGAMP. SiRNA was used to knock down the endogenous cGAS or STING. G140 and H‐151 were used to inhibit cGAS and STING respectively. Amlexanox and BAY 11‐7082 were used to inhibit TBK1 and NF‐κB respectively. qRT‐PCR and ELISA were performed to detect the level of IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6. Western blot was performed to evaluate the TBK1, IRF3 and p65 phosphorylation. The Student's t‐test and one‐way anova were used for statistical analysis.

Results

IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6 were up‐regulated in the inflamed human dental pulp tissue. CGAS and STING mRNA were increased in the inflamed human dental pulp tissue and detected in HDPCs prepared from healthy human pulp tissues. ISD transfection induced TBK1, IRF3 and p65 phosphorylation as well as IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6 production. IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6 production were also induced by transfection of bacterial and host cyclic dinucleotides or bacteria DNA. ISD or bacteria DNA transfection elevated the intracellular levels of cGAMP. Knock‐down of cGAS or STING, as well as using cGAS inhibitor G140 or STING inhibitor H‐151 abolished the IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6 production induced by ISD transfection. Knock‐down of STING or using STING inhibitor H‐151 abolished the IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6 induction by transfection of bacterial and host cyclic dinucleotides. Both Amlexanox and BAY 11‐7082 inhibited IFN‐β, TNF and IL‐6 production triggered by ISD and cyclic dinucleotides transfection.

Conclusions

Human dental pulp cells expressed an intact cGAS–STING signalling axis. The cGAS–STING signalling axis may play an important role in pulp inflammation and immune defence.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Al2O3 ceramic joints achieved by Ag‐SiO2 braze in air
Authors: Wang Zhiquan , Li Chun , Si Xiaoqing , Zheng Mushi , Chen Lei , Huang Yongxian , Qi Junlei , Cao Jian
Published: September 2021

Al2O3 ceramics have a wide range of applications because of the superior mechanical properties and chemical stability of the material. In this study, Al2O3 was successfully brazed using an Ag‐SiO2 filler in air. The microstructure of Al2O3 joints was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and transmission electron microscopy. The composition of the joint was determined to be Al2O3/SiO2/Ag/SiO2/Al2O3. Mechanical properties and fracture characteristics of joints were investigated. The achieved shear strength was highest at 32 MPa when joints were obtained at 1050°C for 30 min using Ag‐1SiO2 braze.
Effects of origin and harvest period on characterisation, structure and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides derived from Porphyra haitanensis
Authors: Ji Chenyang , Pan Chuang , Huang Haichao , Tao Fengting , Lin Shanting , Chen Shengjun , Qi Bo , Hu Xiao , Yang Xianqing
Published: September 2021

In the present study, the influences of different origins and harvest periods on the characterisation, structure and antioxidant activity of Porphyra haitanensis polysaccharides (PHPs) were investigated. PHPR03 obtained from the third harvest period (late December) in Raoping possessed the highest content of sulphate group (14.70%), the lowest viscosity (434.34 mL·g−1) and exhibited better antioxidant activity. FTIR spectrum confirmed that PHPs obtained in different origins and harvest periods had similar functional groups (O—H, C—H and C—O group). Thermal gravimetric analysis suggested that PHPR03 has good thermal stability until 182 °C. PHPR03 microstructure was detected using scanning electron microscopy, and it was mainly irregular flocs. Atomic force microscope data showed that its diameter and height ranged from 1.32 to 1.99 μm and 14.16 to 34.92 nm, respectively. X‐ray diffraction and Congo red experiments indicated that PHPR03 belongs to amorphous material with weak rigidity and exists in the form of random coils in an aqueous solution. PHPR03 resulted in a decrease of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances value of ground pork. This study provides the theoretical basis for rational utilisation and further applications in the food industry of PHPs.
Relative and absolute self‐ratings of work performance: Does social comparison lead to an enhanced thought process in self‐evaluations?
Authors: Carver Sarah , Goffin Richard , Factor Rebecca
Published: September 2021

Employee self‐ratings are often a required and important part of performance‐management programs. We asked self‐raters to provide in‐depth descriptions of their thought processes when rating their own work performance using either a relative (i.e., comparative, percentile‐based) or a conventional absolute rating process. Thematic analysis indicated that relative self‐ratings typically engendered a two‐step evaluation process: initial consideration of one's performance, then comparison to a reference group. Conventional absolute self‐ratings tended to rely on a single‐step, less comprehensive process. Relative self‐rating mean scores were significantly lower than were absolute self‐ratings. Our results provide further insights into the mechanism that may underlie relative ratings' psychometric advantages as previously found in a variety of domains.
Screening of gamma-aminobutyric acid-producing lactic acid bacteria and the characteristic of glutamate decarboxylase from Levilactobacillus brevis F109-MD3 isolated from kimchi
Authors: Liu Wenli , Li Huamin , Liu Long , Ko Kanghee , Kim Incheol
Published: September 2021

Aims

This study aimed to screen the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-producing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from kimchi, and investigate the glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) activity of the highest GABA-producing strain.

Methods and Results

Seven strains of LAB were screened from kimchi with GABA-producing activity. Strain Levilactobacillus brevis F109-MD3 showed the highest GABA-producing ability. It produced GABA at a concentration of 520 mmol l−1 with a 97.4% GABA conversion rate in MRS broth containing 10% monosodium glutamate for 72 h. The addition of pyridoxal 5’-phosphate had no significant effect on the GAD activity of L. brevis F109-MD3. The optimal pH range of GAD was 3.0–5.0 and the optimal temperature was 65°C. The D value of GAD at 50, 60 and 70°C was 7143, 971 and 124 min respectively and Z value was 11.36°C.

Conclusions

Seven strains isolated from kimchi, especially F109-MD3, showed high GABA-production ability even in the high concentrations of MSG at 7.5% and 10%. The GAD activity showed an effective broad pH range and higher optimal temperature.

Significance and Impact of the Study

These seven strains could be potentially useful for food-grade GABA production and the development of healthy foods.
Lotteries and Immigration
Authors: Al Hashmi Rufaida
Published: September 2021

States sometimes select immigrants by lottery. In this article, I argue that lottery‐based programs that select immigrants are not ideal for neither an unbiased decision‐making process, fairness, nor diversity. I consider each argument in turn. First, I examine the argument that lotteries should be implemented because they ‘sanitise’ the immigration selection procedure of bad reasons and biases. Second, I consider the fairness‐based justification of lotteries, which claims that lotteries are a fair way of selecting would‐be immigrants because it gives them all an equal chance to enter. Third, I consider the argument that an immigration lottery should be adopted as a way of increasing diversity in the immigrant population. I show that none of these arguments succeeds in its own terms. However, I argue that lotteries that are part of a wider immigration regime can sometimes be justified as a second‐best policy device. I illustrate my argument by focusing on the case of the Green Card Lottery.
The metabolite GLP‐1 (9‐36) is neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory in cellular models of neurodegeneration
Authors: Li Yazhou , Glotfelty Elliot J. , Karlsson Tobias , Fortuno Lowella V. , Harvey Brandon K. , Greig Nigel H.
Published: September 2021

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is best known for its insulinotropic action following food intake. Its metabolite, GLP‐1 (9‐36), was assumed biologically inactive because of low GLP‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) affinity and non‐insulinotropic properties; however, recent studies contradict this assumption. Increased use of FDA approved GLP‐1 analogues for treating metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases raises interest in GLP‐1 (9‐36)’s biological role. We use human SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and a GLP‐1R over‐expressing variety (#9), in both undifferentiated and differentiated states, to evaluate the neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects of GLP‐1 (9‐36) against toxic glutamate exposure and other oxidative stress models (via the MTS, LDH or ROS assays). In addition, we examine GLP‐1 (9‐36)’s signaling pathways, including cyclic‐adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), protein kinase‐A (PKA), and 5’ adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) via the use of ELISA, pharmacological inhibitors, or GLP‐1R antagonist. Human HMC3 and mouse IMG microglial cell lines were used to study the anti‐inflammatory effects of GLP‐1 (9‐36) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (via ELISA). Finally, we applied GLP‐1 (9‐36) to primary dissociation cultures challenged with α‐synuclein or amyloid‐β and assessed survival and morphology via immunochemistry. We demonstrate evidence of GLP‐1R, cAMP, PKA, and AMPK‐mediated neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of GLP‐1 (9‐36). The metabolite significantly reduced IL‐6 and TNF‐α levels in HMC3 and IMG microglial cells, respectively. Lastly, we show mild but significant effects of GLP‐1 (9‐36) in primary neuron cultures challenged with α‐synuclein or amyloid‐β. These studies enhance understanding of GLP‐1 (9‐36)’s effects on the nervous system and its potential as a primary or complementary treatment in pathological contexts.

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Examining gender differences in predictors of financial satisfaction: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Tharp Derek T. , Parks‐Stamm Elizabeth J.
Published: September 2021

Guided by an integrative model of top–down and bottom–up influences on financial satisfaction, this study examines gender differences in the predictors of financial satisfaction in Taiwan. Using the 2016 wave of the panel study of family dynamics (PSFD), gender differences in the extent to which top–down (trait positive and negative affect) and bottom–up (demographic, financial, and social support) factors predicted financial satisfaction were explored within three Taiwanese social contexts: all adults (n = 3593), working adults (n = 2713), and married working adults (n = 1306). Gender differences were observed in all three social contexts. In particular, income (more strongly associated among men than women), education (more strongly associated among women than men), and trait negative affect (more strongly associated among women than men) tended to predict financial satisfaction differently by gender. Trait positive affect predicted financial satisfaction regardless of gender. The present analysis suggests traditional gender roles continue to influence financial satisfaction assessment in Taiwan.
Phytoplankton ecology in different coastal habitats along the northern Bay of Bengal
Authors: Sarker Subrata , Sultana Tania , Islam Nazrul , Hossain Md Sanwar , Huda ANM Samiul , Zulkarnain KM , Sharifuzzaman SM
Published: September 2021

Knowledge on phytoplankton dynamics is important to understand the trophodynamics of aquatic ecosystems. But, the topic remains poorly studied in the context of tropical coastal habitats. The present study describes the community structure and drivers of phytoplankton in different coastal habitats along the northern Bay of Bengal. Data were collected on phytoplankton, zooplankton and a range of environmental variables from the estuarine, mangroves and coral habitats of Bangladesh during dry season from October 2020 to March 2021. Our study found that eco‐hydrological characteristics of the estuarine, mangroves and coral habitats differ from each other, although phytoplankton assemblages in these habitats commonly dominated by diatoms. In the estuary, the main diatom taxa included Coscinodiscus, whereas Ceratium and Chaetoceros were dominant in the coral habitat, and Coscinodiscus and Chaetoceros in the mangroves habitat. The concentration of micronutrients (silicate, nitrate and phosphate) was the most important driver of phytoplankton among all habitats. Zooplankton had a vital role in regulating the phytoplankton community composition in the coral habitat. These results suggest that the phytoplankton dynamics across tropical coastal habitats is largely driven by nutrients, which, when compared, have less influence on the growth of phytoplankton in temperate region.
Is autonomous demand really autonomous in the United States? An asymmetric frequency‐domain Granger causality approach
Authors: Pérez‐Montiel José A. , Manera Carles
Published: September 2021

We test whether the growth rate of autonomous demand determines the growth rate of output in the United States. We apply asymmetric frequency‐domain Granger causality tests. We find that negative and positive shocks in the growth rate of autonomous demand unidirectionally Granger‐cause negative and positive shocks in the growth rate of output, respectively. These results apply in the short and in the long run. Our results are important because, unlike the existing empirical literature on autonomous demand‐led growth, they validate the autonomy of autonomous demand in the short and in the long run; which is key for the consistency of the supermultiplier model.