bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the effect of adhering to Canada's Food Guide 2019 recommendations on health outcomes in older adults: a target trial emulation protocol
Authors: Brassard Didier , Presse Nancy , Chevalier Stéphanie
Published: May 2024

Background: The Canada's Food Guide 2019 (CFG) provides universal recommendations to individuals aged 2 years or older. The extent to which these recommendations are appropriate for older adults is unknown. Although ideal, conducting a large randomized controlled trial is unrealistic in the short term. An alternative is the target trial emulation framework for causal inference, a novel approach to improve the analysis of observational data. Objective: Our aim is to describe the protocol of a target trial emulation in older adults with emphasis on key aspects of a hypothetical sustained diet and physical activity intervention. Methods: To emulate the target trial, non-experimental data from the NuAge prospective study (n=1753, adults aged 67 years or older) will be used. NuAge includes 4 yearly measurements of dietary intakes, covariates and outcomes. The per protocol causal contrast will be the primary causal contrast of interest to account for non-adherence. The sustained intervention strategy will be modelled using the parametric g-formula. In the hypothetical trial, participants would be instructed to meet sex-specific minimal intakes for vegetables and fruits, whole grains, animal- and plant-based protein foods, milk & plant-based beverages and unsaturated fats. Eligibility criteria, follow-up, intervention, outcomes, and causal contrast will be similar in the emulation to the target trial except for minor modifications. We will attempt to emulate randomization of treatment by adjusting for baseline covariates and pre-baseline dietary habits. Conclusion: Emulating a target trial will provide the first evidence of the adequacy of CFG 2019 recommendations for older adults in relation to health outcomes.
Potential impact of switching from a two- to one-dose gender-neutral routine HPV vaccination program in Canada: A mathematical modeling analysis
Authors: Drolet Mélanie , Laprise Jean-François , Chamberland Éléonore , Sauvageau Chantal , Wilson Sarah , Lim Gillian H. , Ogilvie Gina , Tuite Ashleigh , Brisson Marc
Published: May 2024

Background

Worldwide, countries are examining whether to implement one-dose HPV vaccination. To inform policy recommendations in Canada, we used mathematical modeling to project the population-level impact and efficiency of switching from two-to one-dose gender-neutral routine HPV vaccination.

Methods

We used HPV-ADVISE, an individual-based transmission-dynamic model of HPV infections/diseases, to model 2 provinces (Quebec, Ontario), which represent higher (≈85%) and lower (≈65%) HPV vaccination coverage in Canada. We examined non-inferior and pessimistic scenarios of one-dose efficacy (VE=98%, 90%) and average duration (VD=lifelong, 30 years, 25 years) versus two doses (VE=98%, VD=lifelong). Our main outcomes were the relative reduction in HPV-16 (among females/males) and cervical cancers, and the number of doses needed to prevent one cervical cancer (NNV).

Results

Our model projects that one-dose HPV vaccination would avert a similar number of cervical cancers as two doses in Canada, under various non-inferior and pessimistic scenarios. Under the most pessimistic scenario (VD=25 years), one-dose vaccination would avert ∼3 percentage-points fewer cervical cancers than two doses over 100 years. All one-dose scenarios were projected to lead to cervical cancer elimination and were projected to be a substantially more efficient use of vaccine doses compared to two doses (NNVs one-dose vs no vaccination=800-1000; incremental NNVs two-dose vs one-dose vaccination >10,000).

Interpretation

If the average duration of one-dose protection is longer than 25 years, individuals would be protected during their peak ages of sexual activity and one-dose vaccination would prevent a similar number of HPV-related cancers, while being a more efficient use of vaccine doses.
Dividend policy and residual dividend theory: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Wirama Dewa Gede , Krisnadewi Komang Ayu , Artini Luh Gede Sri , Ardiana Putu Agus
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Using the residual dividend theory, this study examines the impact of capital expenditures and working capital on the dividend policies of publicly listed companies in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data on public companies (other than those in the financial sector) listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2011 to 2020, this study collected 870 observations (firm-years). This study employs a regression analysis technique using the STATA application program. The main variables in this study are capital expenditure and working capital, and the control variables are sales growth, firm size, leverage, profitability, liquidity and dummy variables for state-owned enterprises. The dependent variable of dividend policy is proxied by the dividend payout ratio.

Findings

This study’s results support the residual dividend theory’s hypothesis, in which capital expenditure negatively affects a company’s dividend policy. This study also analyzes this effect on companies that pay cash dividends at quantile positions of 25, 30, 50 and 60. The results show that the effect of capital expenditure on cash dividend payments is more pronounced in the case of companies whose cash dividends are in the 50th quantile. This result holds across different specification and endogeneity tests.

Originality/value

This study analyzes the residual dividend theory in Indonesian companies, focusing on localized factors and investment priorities. It challenges traditional Western dividend policies and provides empirical data that enhances the theory’s robustness. The findings have practical implications for investors, policymakers and corporate decision-makers in the Indonesian market.
Thinking fast, not slow: intuitive nutrition labels increase healthier food preferences under time pressure
Authors: Motoki Kosuke , Saito Toshiki
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labeling has attracted considerable attention in a wide range of communities. However, the limited effects of FOP nutrition labels on healthier food preferences have been reported. Drawing on the dual system theory, this study aimed to investigate which FOP nutrition labels increase healthier food preferences and when. Drawing on the dual-process theory, this study aimed to investigate the effects of Nutri-Scores on healthy food preferences under time pressure.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants saw two food packages (healthier and less healthy) with either intuitive (nutrient score) or numeric FOP labels. They then had to choose one of their preferred products with or without time pressure.

Findings

Across two studies (including one pre-registered replication), the results consistently demonstrated that the Nutri-Score (vs numeric labels) increases healthier food preferences under time pressure. No significant difference in the likelihood of choosing healthier food was found between the labels under non-time pressure.

Originality/value

Together, our results suggest that intuitive FOP labeling (i.e. Nutri-Score) enhances healthier food preferences during Type 1 processing and provides practical implications for promoting healthy eating.
Navigating the challenges of extending working life: a study of employment support services for older workers in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Ka Ki , Au-Yeung Tat Chor
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research highlights age-specific barriers to employment for older workers and the gap between activation policy design and implementation, focusing on difficulties in extending working life under employment support services.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employed a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews to gather perspectives on extending the working lives of older adults. Eighteen experienced social workers who worked in employment support services for older workers who aged fifty-five and above participated in the study.

Findings

This study underscores the importance of comprehensively understanding the heterogeneity of individuals' circumstances and emphasizes the impact of intersectionality on the development of extending working life. It incorporates individual and familial difficulties, including considering caregiving responsibilities, health issues and housing challenges before exploring employment-related concerns. The study also highlights external factors influencing older workers' employment prospects, including employer perspectives, government support levels and public recognition of the necessity to extend working life.

Research limitations/implications

This research sheds light on the impact of welfare-related stigma, which imposes obstacles and inflexibility on older workers seeking employment. It ultimately contributes to the sustainability and dynamism of the Asia–Pacific workforce while also informing regional discussions on social security and welfare services.

Originality/value

It uniquely employs the perspectives of social workers providing employment support services to highlight challenges and policy gaps in extending the working lives of older workers in Hong Kong. It also provides practical insights into strategies and mechanisms for extending working life across diverse social contexts.
Performance coaching and training transfer in micro, small and medium enterprises of India: examining the mediating role of employee agility
Authors: Srigouri V.V. , Muduli Ashutosh
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The study investigates the role of performance coaching (PC) and employee agility (EA) in training transfer (TT). Research reveals that initially 40% of trainees struggle to apply what they've learned, increasing to 70% after a year, resulting in just a 50% overall training success rate. Following Holton et al.'s learning transfer system (LTS) framework, much research explores the factors affecting TT in various contexts, emphasizing organizational contexts, individual factors and training design, mainly in large corporations. This research, however, delves into the influence of PC (as an organizational context) and EA (as an individual characteristic) on TT in medium- and small-scale Indian enterprises. Building on the resource-based view (RBV) theory, the study also examines how EA mediates the relationship between PC and TT.

Design/methodology/approach

Following LTS framework and building on the RBV theory, the survey research has been designed. Using a validated instrument, data from 411 respondents of Indian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) by SPSS-AMOS.

Findings

The result proved that PC and EA exert a significant and positive influence on TT. Further, the result proved that EA mediates the relationship between PC and TT.

Originality/value

The research is unique and original, as little research are available on the exploration of the interplay between PC and EA within the framework of MSMEs.
When and why does customization reduce booking cancellations? Field evidence from two hotels
Authors: Mathmann Frank , Wang Di , Christian Jesse Elias
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study employs S-D Logic to examine the hotel booking behaviors of individuals, with a focus on the impact of service customization on service cancellation. Additionally, the moderating role of social co-creation is explored to provide further insight.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on booking data from two hotels: a resort hotel with 40,060 recorded bookings, including 11,122 cancellations, and bookings from a city hotel with 79,330 bookings, including 33,102 cancellations.

Findings

The result reveals that bookings with higher levels of initial customization, such as special requests, are more likely to be modified later and less likely to be canceled. Interestingly, while multi-adult bookings were found to have a higher cancellation rate than individual bookings, the effects of customization commitment were more pronounced for multi-adult bookings.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to establish a connection between service customization, the number of adults on a booking and the likelihood of cancellation, thus providing new empirical evidence for the emergence of customization effects in services. Additionally, the study identifies important contingencies based on the number of consumers in a booking.
The value of store brand customization: consider demand learning and preference matching
Authors: Shen Qichao
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study examined the reciprocal influence of demand learning and preference matching in the context of store brand customization. The demand-learning effect refers to the collection of market demand information through production, based on pre-order demands, enabling retailers to accurately predict and allocate product quantities, thus improving inventory management. The preference-matching effect involves engaging consumers in the production and design processes of store brands to align fully with their preferences, thereby increasing the purchase impact of store brand products and promoting consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ game-theoretic models to analyze a two-echelon supply chain consisting of a manufacturer and a retailer. The retailer offers both national brands, manufactured by the supplier and in-house store brands. To enhance their competitive edge, the retailer can adopt a customized strategy targeting the store brand to attract a wider consumer base.

Findings

The analysis reveals that, under low commission fees, the manufacturer consistently opts for high production quantities, irrespective of the level of demand uncertainty. However, when the perceived value of a store brand is low and demand uncertainty is either low or high, the retailer should choose a minimal or zero production quantity. The decision-making process is influenced by the customization process, wherein the effects of demand learning and preference matching occasionally mutually reinforce each other. Specifically, when the perceived value of a store brand is low, or the product cost is high, along with high customization costs, the interplay between demand learning and preference matching becomes mutually inhibiting. Consequently, the significance of store brand customization diminishes.

Originality/value

This study enhances the current body of knowledge by providing a deeper understanding of the theoretical value of store brand customization. In addition, it offers valuable decision-making support to enterprises by assisting them in selecting appropriate inventory and customization strategies.
Enabling creativity: the interplay of participative leadership, coworkers’ knowledge sharing behavior and employee’s creative idea validation
Authors: Kumar Nilesh , Wang Changfeng , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Based on theory Z of leadership, this research aims to investigate the direct relationship between participative leadership (PL) and creative idea validation (CIV) fostering both radical (RC) and incremental creativity (IC). Additionally, by utilizing attribution theory, it explores the moderating effect of coworkers’ knowledge-sharing behavior (KSB) on both the direct and indirect relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a descriptive approach and convenient sampling from three sources – leaders, subordinates and coworkers – in R&D departments at multi-levels within 97 high-tech firms in China. Data comprised 446 employees (subordinates and coworkers) and 94 leaders, and multilevel path analysis was conducted using Mplus software.

Findings

The results indicate that PL exhibits both a direct and indirect positive association with RC and IC through the CIV. Moreover, the relationship is enhanced by coworkers’ high-KSB.

Practical implications

Our study offers implications that managers can leverage to foster employee creativity. Leaders are encouraged to embrace a PL style for collective idea validation. However, to overcome coworkers’ reciprocal behavior, they may facilitate trust and team-building exercises, enabling employees to strengthen relationships and share critical information and knowledge resources for the development and validation.

Originality/value

This study is the first to empirically extend the relationship between PL and CIV, utilizing a multilevel approach to assess its impact on distinctive types of creativity – namely, radical and incremental. Further, it testifies the significance of coworkers’ knowledge as an attribution effect influencing the relationships.
Green HRM practices and corporate sustainability performance
Authors: Ali Murad , Shujahat Muhammad , Fatima Noureen , Lopes de Sousa Jabbour Ana Beatriz , Vo-Thanh Tan , Salam Mohammad Asif , Latan Hengky
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The existing literature indicates that the ultimate purpose of green human resource management (GHRM) practices is to enhance sustainable corporate performance by shaping employees’ green behaviors. In this vein, we argue that green organizational culture and employee existing pro-environmental behaviors are the important factors or channels through which GHRM practices shape green employee behaviors for sustainable corporate performance. Consequently, we draw on the ability, motivation, and opportunity (AMO) framework to examine how firms’ GHRM practices indirectly shape employee green behavior for sustainable corporate performance by cultivating and reinforcing green organizational culture under the boundary condition of high employee pro-environmental behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses multi-source, dyadic, and time-lagged data collected from green HR managers and employees in 242 ISO-14001-certified green firms in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study applies structural equation modeling through LISREL 12 software for testing of hypotheses.

Findings

The findings support the postulation that GHRM practices, directly and indirectly, shape employee green behaviors for sustainable performance. GHRM practices indirectly enhance employee green behaviors for sustainable performance by cultivating and fostering the green organizational culture in the presence of high pro-environmental behavior.

Practical implications

This study outlines theoretical and practical implications on how HRM managers require an established green organizational culture and employee pro-environmental behaviors to effectively direct GHRM for enhanced sustainable corporate performance. HRM managers should make use of appropriate interventions, including but not limited to GHRM practices, to foster a green organizational culture and employee pro-environmental behaviors.

Originality/value

This is an original study that outlines the importance of alignment between Green HRM practices and employee pro-environmental behaviors towards shaping green organizational culture and employee behaviors for corporate sustainability. The study demonstrates how GHRM practices enhance sustainable corporate performance through sequential mediations of green organizational culture and employee green behaviors, and under the boundary condition of pro-environmental behavior.
3-pass and 5-pass laser grooving & die strength characterization for reinforced internal low-k 55nm node wafer structure via heat-treatment process
Authors: Mohammad Nazri Muhammad Hakeem , Yong Tan Chou , Yusof Farazila B. , Soon How Thien Gregory , Yoong Chan Kah , Kar Yap Boon
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Die edge quality with its corresponding die strength are two important factors for excellent dicing quality especially for low-k wafers due to their weak mechanical properties and fragile structures. It is shown in past literatures that laser dicing or grooving does yield good dicing quality with the elimination of die mechanical properties. This is due to the excess heat energy that the die absorbs throughout the procedure. Within the internal structure, the mechanical properties of low-k wafers can be further enhanced by modification of the material. The purpose of this paper is to strengthen the mechanical properties of wafers through the heat-treatment process.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of this approach is by heat treating several low-k wafers that are scribed with different laser energy densities with different laser micromachining parameters, i.e. laser power, frequency, feed speed, defocus reading and single/multibeam setup. An Nd:YAG ultraviolet laser diode that is operating at 355 nm wavelength was used in this study. The die responses from each wafer are thoroughly visually inspected to identify any topside chipping and peeling. The laser grooving profile shape and deepest depth are analysed using a laser profiler, while the sidewalls are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to detect cracks and voids. The mechanical strength of each wafer types then undergoes three-point bending test, and the performance data is analyzed using Weibull plot.

Findings

The result from the experiment shows that the standard wafers are most susceptible to physical defects as compared to the heat-treated wafers. There is improvement for heat-treated wafers in terms of die structural integrity and die strength performance, which revealed a 6% increase in single beam data group for wafers that is processed using high energy density laser output but remains the same for other laser grooving settings. Whereas for multibeam data group, all heat-treated wafer with different laser settings receives a slight increase at 4% in die strength.

Originality/value

Heat-treatment process can yield improved mechanical properties for laser grooved low-k wafers and thus provide better product reliability.
Does board cultural diversity mediate the relationship between integrated reporting and corporate social responsibility? Insights from South Africa
Authors: Lajnef Karima , Dhifi Kawther
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between integrated reporting (IR) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the context of South Africa, specifically exploring the mediating impact of board cultural diversity on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzed data from 107 companies operating in South Africa between 2010 and 2022 using the quantitative research method described by Preacher and Hayes (2008).

Findings

The research findings illuminate the complex dynamics of cultural diversity on boards as mediators in integrating reporting practices and CSR initiatives. A more diverse board has been shown to mediate and strengthen the relationship between IR and CSR, leading to improved sustainability performance.

Originality/value

These findings have practical implications for various stakeholders in the South African corporate environment, including boards of directors, policymakers and investors and emphasize the importance of promoting cultural diversity to promote corporate sustainability and social responsibility. Furthermore, these findings provide insights for creating inclusive and effective boards of directors capable of leading organizations toward more responsible and sustainable practices.
Differential renal length index: useful measure in management of isolated unilateral hydronephrosis?
Authors: Gharpure Ketaki , Lobo Sara , Bandaru Meghana , Johal Navroop , Verveckken Katrien , de Baets Karen , van Hoeck Koen , DeWin Gunter , Cherian Abraham
Published: May 2024

Objective

To explore the usefulness of the ‘differential renal length index’ (iDRL) before and after pyeloplasty, as the anteroposterior diameter is commonly used to quantify hydronephrosis but inaccuracies arise due to interobserver variability, hydration status and pure intra‐renal dilatation.

Patients and Methods

Prospectively collected data, from two centres, of all children undergoing pyeloplasty for isolated unilateral pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) (2015–2021) were analysed. Subgroup analysis was undertaken: Group A – differential renal function (DRF) ≥40%, Group B – subnormal DRF (20–39%), and Group C – symptomatic. Children with structural anomalies of upper and lower urinary tract, bilateral involvement, and subnormal DRF (<20%) were excluded. All the children had a pre‐ and postoperative ultrasound scan and Tc99m mercapto‐acetyltriglycine (MAG3) renograms. The iDRL was calculated as follows: iDRL = ([a – b]/b) × 100, where ‘a’ is the length of hydronephrotic kidney (cm) and ‘b’ is the length of contralateral normal kidney (cm). The mean difference and standard error of mean (SEM) between the pre‐ and postoperative iDRL was evaluated using the paired Student's t‐test, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 119 children with 1‐year follow‐up were included. For the entire cohort, the mean (SEM) preoperative iDRL was 27.7 (1.4) and postoperatively was 12.5 (1.1), with a mean (range) DRF improvement of 54% (44–66%) (P < 0.001). In Group A (n = 97), the mean (SEM) preoperative iDRL was 26.6 (1.5) and postoperatively was 13.1 (1.2), with a mean (range) DRF improvement of 50% (38–63%) (P < 0.001). In Group B (n = 22), the mean (SEM) preoperative iDRL was 32.6 (3.5) and postoperatively was 10.0 (2.8), with a mean (range) DRF improvement of 69% (49–89%) (P < 0.001). In Group C (n = 28), the mean (SEM) preoperative iDRL was 19.9 (2.3) and postoperatively was 7.7 (1.9), with a mean (range) DRF improvement of 61% (38–85%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study identifies the iDRL as a useful measure of improvement following successful pyeloplasty. In the subgroup with DRF of >39% minimum improvement was >37%. Similar minimum DRF improvement was also noted (>37%) in hypo‐functioning kidneys and symptomatic PUJO.
Peimenine unleashes therapeutic promise in urothelial bladder cancer: inhibition of proliferation, induction of cell death and modulation of key pathways
Authors: Yang Zhao , Guo Rui , Bi Ying , Xu Wenkai , Hao Mingxuan , Liang Youfeng , Li Yongchao , Wang Haifeng , Zhang Jun , Xie Jianxin , Wan Chuanxing , Sun Jirui
Published: May 2024

Peimenine (PEI) is a steroid alkaloid substance isolated from Fritillaria thunbergii bulbs. It has various pharmacological activities, such as relief from coughs and asthma, expectorant properties, antibacterial effects, sedative qualities, and anti‐inflammatory properties. Notably, PEI can effectively inhibit the proliferation and tumor formation of liver cancer and osteosarcoma cells by inducing autophagic cell death. However, the precise effect and mechanisms of PEI on urothelial bladder cancer (UBC) cells remain uncertain. Thus, this study aims to investigate the impact of PEI on UBC cells both in vivo and in vitro. The IC50 values of BIU‐87 and EJ‐1 cells after 48 h were 710.3 and 651.1 μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, PEI blocked the cell cycle in BIU‐87 and EJ‐1 cells during the G1 phase. Furthermore, it hindered the migration of BIU‐87 and EJ‐1 cells substantially. PEI significantly inhibited the tumor development of EJ‐1 cells within the xenograft tumor model in vivo. Mechanically, PEI augmented the protein and mRNA expression of BIM, BAK1, and Cytochrome C (CYCS) in UBC cells. Taken together, PEI suppressed the proliferation of UBC cells both in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell death and cell cycle arrest, suggesting that PEI could be applied in the treatment of UBC.
Severely compromised supply of patch test allergens in Europe hampers adequate diagnosis of occupational and non‐occupational contact allergy. A European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD), European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) task forces ‘Contact Dermatitis’ and ‘Occupational Skin Disease’ position paper
Authors: John Swen Malte , Bonertz Andreas , Zimmer Julia , Aerts Olivier , Bauer Andrea , Bova Maria , Brans Richard , Del Giacco Stefano , Dickel Heinrich , Corazza Monica , Crépy Marie‐Noëlle , Gallo Rosella , Garcia‐Abujeta Jose Luis , Giménez‐Arnau Ana Maria , Klimek Ludger , Lepoittevin Jean‐Pierre , Ljubojević Hadžavdić Suzana , Matura Mihaly , Mortz Charlotte Gotthard , Özkaya Esen , Pesonen Maria , Raison‐Peyron Nadia , Rustemeyer Thomas , Skudlik Christoph , Spiewak Radoslaw , Stingeni Luca , Suomela Sari , Symanzik Cara , Taylor James , Torres Maria , Uter Wolfgang , White Ian , Wilkinson Mark , Mahler Vera , Johansen Jeanne Duus
Published: May 2024

Patch testing is the only clinically applicable diagnostic method for Type IV allergy. The availability of Type IV patch test (PT) allergens in Europe, however, is currently scarce. This severely compromises adequate diagnostics of contact allergy, leading to serious consequences for the affected patients. Against this background, the European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD) has created a task force (TF) (i) to explore the current availability of PT substances in different member states, (ii) to highlight some of the unique characteristics of Type IV vs. other allergens and (iii) to suggest ways forward to promote and ensure availability of high‐quality patch testing substances for the diagnosis of Type IV allergies throughout Europe. The suggestions of the TF on how to improve the availability of PT allergens are supported by the ESCD, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, and the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology and intend to provide potential means to resolve the present medical crisis.
Habitat suitability models reveal the spatial signal of environmental DNA in riverine networks
Authors: Brantschen Jeanine , Fopp Fabian , Adde Antoine , Keck François , Guisan Antoine , Pellissier Loïc , Altermatt Florian
Published: May 2024

The rapid loss of biodiversity in freshwater systems asks for a robust and spatially explicit understanding of species' occurrences. As two complementing approaches, habitat suitability models provide information about species' potential occurrence, while environmental DNA (eDNA) based assessments provide indication of species' actual occurrence. Individually, both approaches are used in ecological studies to characterize biodiversity, yet they are rarely combined. Here, we integrated high‐resolution habitat suitability models with eDNA‐based assessments of aquatic invertebrates in riverine networks to understand their individual and combined capacity to inform on species' occurrence. We used eDNA sampling data from 172 river sites and combined the detection of taxa from three insect orders (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera; hereafter EPT) with suitable habitat predictions at a subcatchment level (2 km2). Overall, we find congruence of habitat suitability and eDNA‐based detections. Yet, the models predicted suitable habitats beyond the number of detections by eDNA sampling, congruent with the suitable niche being larger than the realized niche. For local mismatches, where eDNA detected a species but the habitat was not predicted suitable, we calculated the minimal distance to upstream suitable habitat patches, indicating possible sources of eDNA signals from upstream sites subsequently being transported along the water flow. We estimated a median distance of 1.06 km (range 0.2–42 km) of DNA transport based on upstream habitat suitability, and this distance was significantly smaller than expected by null model predictions. This estimated transport distance is in the range of previously reported values and allows extrapolations of transport distances across many taxa and riverine systems. Together, the combination of eDNA and habitat suitability models allows larger scale and spatially integrative inferences about biodiversity, ultimately needed for the management and protection of biodiversity.
A large‐scale neuronal network modelling study: Stimulus size modulates gamma oscillations in the primary visual cortex by long‐range connections
Authors: Yang Hao , Han Fang , Wang Qingyun
Published: May 2024

Stimulus size modulation of neuronal firing activity is a fundamental property of the primary visual cortex. Numerous biological experiments have shown that stimulus size modulation is affected by multiple factors at different spatiotemporal scales, but the exact pathways and mechanisms remain incompletely understood. In this paper, we establish a large‐scale neuronal network model of primary visual cortex with layer 2/3 to study how gamma oscillation properties are modulated by stimulus size and especially how long‐range connections affect the modulation as realistic neuronal properties and spatial distributions of synaptic connections are considered. It is shown that long‐range horizontal synaptic connections are sufficient to produce dimensional modulation of firing rates and gamma oscillations. In particular, with increasing grating stimulus size, the firing rate increases and then decreases, the peak frequency of gamma oscillations decreases and the spectral power increases. These are consistent with biological experimental observations. Furthermore, we explain in detail how the number and spatial distribution of long‐range connections affect the size modulation of gamma oscillations by using the analysis of neuronal firing activity and synaptic current fluctuations. Our results provide a mechanism explanation for size modulation of gamma oscillations in the primary visual cortex and reveal the important and unique role played by long‐range connections, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the cognitive function of gamma oscillations in visual cortex.
Caloric restriction extends lifespan in a clonal plant
Authors: Chmilar Suzanne L. , Luzardo Amanda C. , Dutt Priyanka , Pawluk Abbe , Thwaites Victoria C. , Laird Robert A.
Published: May 2024

When subjected to dietary caloric restriction (CR), individual animals often outlive well‐fed conspecifics. Here, we address whether CR also extends lifespan in plants. Whereas caloric intake in animals comes from ingestion, in plants it derives from photosynthesis. Thus, factors that reduce photosynthesis, such as reduced light intensity, can induce CR. In two lab experiments investigating the aquatic macrophyte Lemna minor, we tracked hundreds of individuals longitudinally, with light intensity—and hence, CR—manipulated using neutral‐density filters. In both experiments, CR dramatically increased lifespan through a process of temporal scaling. Moreover, the magnitude of lifespan extension accorded with the assumptions that (a) light intensity positively relates to photosynthesis following Michaelis–Menten kinetics, and (b) photosynthesis negatively relates to lifespan via a power law. Our results emphasize that CR‐mediated lifespan extension applies to autotrophs as well as heterotrophs, and suggest that variation in light intensity has quantitatively predictable effects on plant aging trajectories.
Road network, landing location, and routing optimization for forest smallholders landscapes
Authors: Constantino Miguel F. , Mesquita Marta , Marques Susete , Tóth Sándor F. , Borges José G.
Published: May 2024

We present two mixed integer linear programming (MILP) formulations for a well‐known integrated network, timber landing location, and routing problem that arises in forest management. The models seek to jointly optimize the construction and maintenance schedule of forest road networks with landing site selection and transportation routing for timber production. This problem is, in general, difficult to solve as it contains the so‐called fixed charge network flow problem, which is known to be NP‐hard. One of the proposed MILP formulations considers 3‐index continuous variables to represent timber flows on road segments in each period. The presence of Big‐M constraints leads to weak linear relaxation bounds. Disaggregating flow variables, according to timber origin, results in a novel 4‐index formulation with very tight linear relaxation bounds. Nevertheless, the number of variables increases prohibitively. This research makes use of spatial constraints common to Smallholding Forested Landscapes to develop a solution approach that reduces the number of flow variables in the new 4‐index model. Results from a real‐world case study located in Northwest Portugal show that, with the 4‐index formulation, the proposed solution approach makes it possible to obtain optimal solutions in a short computational time.
With the best intentions: Implications on self‐determination during Covid‐19 restrictions
Authors: Melbøe Line , Kane Aina Aune
Published: May 2024

Background

In times of crisis, the interests of the individual might be sacrificed for the health and safety of others. The aim of this study was to explore the situation under Covid‐19 for persons with intellectual disabilities, focusing on implications on the right to self‐determination within health protection.

Method

To understand how the relevant legal framework was governed by authorities and service providers during the Covid‐19 pandemic, we have performed semi‐structured interviews with 19 service providers in municipal home care services.

Results

Many residents were provided adequate and adapted information about Covid‐19, but very few were involved in the introduction and implementation of infection control measures.

Conclusions

Our study has revealed how a crisis such as the pandemic not only puts the health of people with intellectual disabilities at risk, but also challenges their right to self‐determination.
Further spread of the invasive apricot aphid Myzus mumecola (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in Central Europe and first insights into its phylogeny
Authors: Oberhofer Sabine , Riedle‐Bauer Monika , Weissmann Mirjam , Andrae Agnes , Holz Ulrike , Oettl Sabine , Spitaler Urban
Published: May 2024

A new aphid species infesting apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.) was identified for the first time in 2016 in Europe. The invasive aphid was assigned to the species Myzus mumecola (Matsumura, 1917). The species is native to India and East Asia, and it was found to be highly invasive and is currently spreading throughout Europe. Records were confirmed for Italy, Hungary, Serbia, and Germany. For a phylogenetic analysis, wingless (apterae) adults were sampled in spring 2022 in Italy, as well as in Austria and Germany in spring 2023. Our study reports the first record of M. mumecola for Austria. In all three countries, the new pest caused heavy infestations overall in organically managed apricot orchards. Aphids were identified morphologically based on external characteristics, and damages were compared to those reported in the literature. COI and 12S barcoding analyses for aphid samples from Italy, Germany, and Austria were performed to attain a molecular characterization of sampled specimens and to confirm the morphological identification. Only a few COI sequences of M. mumecola were present in NCBI GenBank or BOLD Systems, and no sequences were available for 12S. Therefore, the results provide a deeper insight into the phylogeny of this spreading pest insect. The results of the COI barcoding showed no differences between the sampled populations and other M. mumecola populations from Europe and Japan, while reports from China showed significant differences. All 12S sequences showed no variability between populations from Austria, Germany, and Italy. A phylogenetic analysis of COI and 12S sequences with sequences from other aphid species from NCBI GenBank or sampled in Italy revealed a close relationship of this species with the damson‐hope aphid, Phorodon humuli.
Evaluating community‐embedded elder care: A case study of supply and demand in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Chen Tianhao , Wei Yujun , Wang Wenyan , Yu Yayang , Shen Xinyi
Published: May 2024

Introduction

With China's urbanization and demographic shifts significantly affecting elder care, this study examines the alignment of community‐based elder care services in Hangzhou's Hemu Community. It addresses the gap in understanding how these services meet the needs of an aging population in a rapidly changing social context.

Methods

A comprehensive mixed‐methods approach was utilized, involving interviews with community residents, observations of elder care service operations and thorough document analysis. The objective was to evaluate the adequacy, utilization and satisfaction levels concerning these elder care services.

Results

The research identified that, although the services generally meet the community's needs, there are notable challenges in content specificity, quality assurance and promotional efforts. These challenges lead to resistance among older adults. Additionally, issues with service visibility and the lack of robust feedback mechanisms were noted.

Conclusion

This study highlights the critical need for a cooperative strategy involving government, community organizations, social entities and businesses in enhancing elder care services. It suggests that improvements in service visibility, content quality and targeted promotion are crucial to address the evolving needs of the aging population and to reduce reluctance in service utilization.
Mango crop maturity estimation using meta‐learning approach
Authors: Upadhyay Nidhi , Gupta Neeraj
Published: May 2024

Mangos are a significant fruit crop that is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. However, manual detection of mango crop maturity is time‐consuming and labor‐intensive. It is a vital agricultural commodity, and accurate assessment of the mango maturity stage is critical for harvesting and post‐harvest handling. Accurately detecting mango crop maturity is essential for ensuring optimal harvesting and quality. This study introduced a specialized Meta‐learning method for classifying mango crop images with limited data. The conventional approach to maturity classification, often hindered by limited labeled data, is significantly enhanced by meta‐learning's ability to adapt quickly to new tasks with minimal examples. The proposed approach works as initial image segmentation to isolate mango crop regions, comprehensive feature extraction to capture meaningful data representations, and a critical meta‐training. This phase involves refining a classifier within a metric space by utilizing cosine distance and an adaptable scale parameter, this is followed by a meta‐testing stage. where the adapted classifier is utilized for maturity prediction with minimal support samples. This research holds substantial promise for the agricultural sector, offering practical solutions to optimize harvest management practices and improve mango crop yield predictions.

Practical applications

Optimized Harvest Scheduling: Scenario: Farmers can use crop maturity estimation to schedule harvest times more precisely. Application: Knowing crop maturity optimizes harvest, minimizing losses. Resource Management: Scenario: Efficient use of resources such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides is essential for sustainable agriculture. Application: Crop maturity guides resource use, for example, reducing late‐stage water/nutrients prevents overuse, saves resources. Quality Assurance: Scenario: Crop quality is often linked to its maturity level. Application: Maturity estimation assesses crop quality, guiding post‐harvest planning and determining market value. Data‐Driven Decision Making: Scenario: Modern agriculture relies on data for decision‐making. Application: Maturity estimation promotes data‐driven farming, aiding trend analysis, optimizing planting, and enhancing farm management.
Procuring Survival*
Authors: Cappelletti Matilde , Giuffrida Leonardo M. , Rovigatti Gabriele
Published: May 2024

We investigate the impact of public procurement on business survival. Using Italy as a laboratory, we construct a large‐scale dataset of firms—covering balance‐sheet, income‐statement, and administrative records—and match it with public contract data. Employing a regression discontinuity design for close‐call auctions, we find that winners are more likely to stay in the market than marginal losers after the award and that the boost in survival chances lasts longer than the contract duration. We document that this effect is associated with earnings substitution rather than increased business scale and that survivors experience no productivity premium. Securing contracts relaxes credit constraints and acts as a mechanism for survival.
Influence of soil type and ripening degree on the intensity and sensory dominance of Mexican habanero chili (Capsicum chinense Jacq.)
Authors: Ramírez‐Rivera Emmanuel de Jesús , Ramírez‐Sucre Manuel Octavio , Rodriguez‐Buenfil Ingrid Mayanin , Cabal‐Prieto Adán , Sánchez‐Orea José Manuel , Herrera‐Corredor José Andrés
Published: May 2024

The objective of this research was to determine the intensity and sensory dominance of habanero peppers grown in different types of soils and with different degrees of maturation. Chili samples grown in red soil (Mayan name: K'ankab lu'um) and black soil (Mayan name: Box lu'um) were evaluated in an immature state (green coloration) and intermediate ripening (green‐orange coloration) using descriptive analysis (DA) and temporal dominance of sensations (TDS). Sensory representation and classification percentage of chili peppers were evaluated using principal component analysis and discriminant factor analysis. The sensory results demonstrated that intermediate ripening chili peppers presented higher color intensities associated with pungency. Immature chili peppers were characterized by having high odor intensities. The TDS results showed that the dominant attributes were burn feeling, chili flavor, heat, and numbness. Immature chili peppers grown in black soil tend to be burn feeling dominant and chili peppers grown in red soil were characterized as chili flavor. The ripe habanero peppers were chili flavor burn feeling and heat. The correct classification percentage was 89.81%.

Practical Applications

This research exposes the sensory differences of habanero peppers with different degrees of maturation and grown in different types of soils. The findings can serve as a reference for future research on the sensory characterization of pungent and for the industry dedicated to the production of habanero chili and for the gastronomy area in charge of the preparation of different dishes that use habanero chili as an ingredient.
Welfare reducing vertical integration in a bilateral monopoly under Nash bargaining
Authors: Mukherjee Arijit , Sinha Uday Bhanu
Published: May 2024

We consider a bilateral monopoly where a linear input price is determined by Nash bargaining. We show, with an increasing marginal cost of input production, that vertical integration reduces consumer surplus and welfare compared with bilateral monopoly if the bargaining power of the input supplier is low. This result is important for competition policies as it questions the common wisdom suggesting vertical integration increases welfare by eliminating the problem of double marginalization. Overproduction under bilateral monopoly compared with vertical integration is the reason for our result. Interestingly, consumer surplus and welfare can be higher under a linear input price compared with a two‐part tariff input price.