bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyses of factors influencing Chinese repeated blood donation behavior
Authors: Chen Xu , Wu Shuyao , Guo Xinyu
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to link subjective data obtained from a questionnaire survey with blood donation behavioral data, constructs a conceptual model of the factors that influence repeated blood donation behavior, and explores the mechanisms and degrees of influence of the value and cost elements of blood donors on repeated blood donation behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

First, this study constructs a conceptual model of the factors that affect repeated blood donation based on delivered value theory. Second, this paper is driven by subjective data obtained from a questionnaire and big data on blood donation behavior; the use of multisource data can help us understand repeated blood donation behavior from a broader perspective. Through data association and systematic research, it is possible to accurately explore the mechanisms through which various factors affect repeated blood donation behavior.

Findings

The results show that among the value elements, personnel value (PV), image value and blood donation value affect blood donation behavior in decreasing order. The change in PV per unit directly caused a 0.471-unit change in satisfaction, which indirectly caused a 0.098-unit change in donation behavior. Among the cost elements of blood donors, only the impact of time cost (TC) on repeated blood donation behavior was significant, and a change of one unit in TC caused a change in repeated blood donation behavior of −0.035 units. In addition, this paper groups subjects according to gender, education and age and explores the differences in the value and cost factors of different groups. Finally, based on the research results, the authors propose corresponding policy recommendations.

Originality/value

First, the authors expand the application field of the delivered value theory, and provide a new perspective for studying repeated blood donation. Second, through questionnaire data and blood donation behavior data, the authors comprehensively explore the factors that influence repeated blood donation behavior.
Organisational fraud: a discussion on the theoretical perspectives and dimensions
Authors: Zahari Afzal Izzaz , Said Jamaliah , Arshad Roshayani
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper discusses literature on organisational fraud in terms of organisational behaviours that lead to fraudulent actions. The discussion includes organisational perspectives and weaknesses that can be obtained from the organisation fraud dimensions of leadership structure, control system and organisational culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores theoretical explanations in terms of the causality of organisational fraud by comparing its different levels. The core organisational fraud triangle (Free, Macintosh and Stein, 2007) approach was initially conceptualised on different factors that caused organisational levels of fraud.

Findings

Different factors, such as the collusion and normalisation of fraud, enabled organisational levels of fraud.

Originality/value

The paper presents an extension of the original framework.
Impact of Eurozone crisis on domestic bank lending in India
Authors: Swamy Vighneswara
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The significant economic weight of the Eurozone in the globe caused the contagion of the Eurozone debt crisis on the emerging markets. The Eurozone debt crisis caused the sudden plummeting of the cross-border bank credit (BC) to India causing a significant impact on bank lending in India. Essentially, the purpose of this study is to find an answer to the question: Did the decline in cross-border cross-credit from Eurozone had an impact on domestic BC in India?

Design/methodology/approach

Using the data for the period from 2000 to 2013 sourced from Bank for International Settlements international banking statistics consolidated data sets, the novel specification of the study captures the impact of Eurozone cross-border credit on India by developing two regression frameworks that capture the pre-Euro debt crisis period scenario and post-Euro debt crisis period scenario.

Findings

The results offer a very interesting analogy of the behavior of BC and cross-border credit during the pre and post-Eurozone crisis scenarios of analysis. During the pre-Eurozone crisis period, cross-border credit displayed a significant negative relationship with BC indicating that cross-border credit to the Indian firms indirectly benefitted the banks by creating increased demand for domestic BC. The post-Eurozone crisis period witnessed a nexus between cross-border credit and BC during the pre-Eurozone crisis period, which gradually disappeared largely because of the onset of the Eurozone crisis.

Originality/value

This study is a first of its kind in investigating the impact of the Eurozone crisis on an emerging economy like India. This study supports the hypothesis of the existence of the transmission of financial shocks through the balance sheets of international banks. The findings conform to the policy concerns of most of the emerging economies that international banks transmit financial shocks from their home countries. The implication for India and other emerging economies is that international credit growth deserves careful monitoring.
Cyber security risks in globalized supply chains: conceptual framework
Authors: Pandey Shipra , Singh Rajesh Kumar , Gunasekaran Angappa , Kaushik Anjali
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine cyber security risks in globalized supply chains (SCs). It has been seen to have a greater impact on the performance of SCs. The information and communication technology of a firm, which enhances the efficiency and effectiveness in the SC, could simultaneously be the cause of vulnerabilities and exposure to security threats. Researchers have primarily focussed on the cyber-physical system (CPS) vulnerabilities impacting SC. This paper tries to categorize the cyber security risks occurring because of the SCs operating in CPS.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the flow of information along the upstream and downstream SC, this paper tries to identify cyber security risks in the global SCs. It has further tried to categorize these cyber security risks from a strategic point of view.

Findings

This paper tries to identify the various cyber security risk and cyber-attacks in globalized SC for improving the performance. The 16 cyber security risks have been categorized into three categories, namely, supply risk, operational risk and demand risk. The paper proposes a framework consisting of different cyber-attacks across the information that flows in global SCs along-with suitable mitigation strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents the conceptual model of cyber security risks and cyber-attacks in globalized SCs based on literature review and industry experts. Further validation and scale development of these risks can be done through empirical study.

Practical implications

This paper provides significant managerial insights by developing a framework for understanding the cyber security risks in terms of the drivers of these risks and how to deal with them. From a managerial perspective, this framework can be used as a decision-making process while considering different cyber security risks across the stages of globalized SCs.

Originality/value

The major contribution of this study is the identification and categorization of cyber security risks across the global SCs in the digital age. Thus, this paper introduces a new phenomenon to the field of management that has the potential to investigate new areas of future research. Based on the categorization, the paper provides insights on how cyber security risks impact the continuity of SC operations.
Banks’ vulnerabilities to money laundering activities
Authors: Yeoh Peter
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to provide insights as to why money laundering persists in banks and their weaknesses as gatekeepers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper contextualizes the design and proliferation of anti-money laundering (AML) measures; investigates the different manners of conceptualizing them; and provides insights pertaining to probable limitations of these measures. The paper relies on primary data from statutes and secondary data from published sources.

Findings

The paper’s findings suggest that competitive pressures, shareholders return imperative, and lucrative misaligned incentives for management contributed to weaknesses in effective compliance in banks.

Practical implications

Insights drawn from this paper reinforces the notion that banks need to seriously review their business approaches, as well as their roles as gatekeepers.

Social implications

Given the slew of corporate scandals and other materially harmful misjudgments in money-laundering compliance, banks might need to seriously review their role and obligations in the economy.

Originality/value

Much has been said about money-laundering activities enabled by the banking sector. This paper contributed to insights as to why they persist despite AML rules, and what measures could be further taken to enhance compliance effectiveness.
Independence and temporality: examining the PMLA in India
Authors: Sharma Sameer
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (the PMLA/the Act) was enacted in India in 2002. Since then, Indian courts have had to deal with two interconnected issues owing to the nature of the offence of money laundering (ML) as conceived in the Act itself. The first issue relates to the independence of the offence of ML from the conviction of the underlying offence; and the second is the manner in which the PMLA operates – whether it does so retrospectively or prospectively. The purpose of this paper is to delve into these questions as there is no definitive and binding answer provided for by the courts. It aims to provide normative answers to the above-mentioned questions to enable better functioning of the Act.

Design/methodology/approach

This research paper examines international conventions relating to ML, reports by inter-governmental bodies, the statutory language of the Act and judgements rendered by courts.

Findings

The paper goes on to conclude that for fulfilling the purpose of the Act, the offence of ML must be considered separate from the conviction of the predicate offence. As a result, it also concludes that the Act must apply in instances where the predicate offence was committed prior to its inclusion in the Act’s Schedule if the act of ML occurs after such inclusion.

Originality/value

There does not exist any scholarly literature addressing the judiciary’s interpretation of the Act regarding the said two issues in a systematic fashion. Added to this is the fact that there exist uncertainty and ambiguity because of conflicting judgements. By analyzing international instruments, the phraseology of the Act and contradictory case-law, this paper attempts to find definitive solutions to the said two questions in a purposive manner.
An integrated-dynamic mode of entry model: global MNEs entering into emerging markets
Authors: Enkhtaivan Bolortuya , Davaadorj Zagdbazar
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual model for the mode of entry in a particular case of global MNEs entering into emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model builds on institutional theory and follows an integrated approach of entry mode theories using bargaining theory, the liability of foreignness and local legitimacy.

Findings

The conceptual model introduces five propositions.

Research limitations/implications

The study has policy implications for emerging market institutions. Also, the model highlights the significance of long-term vision in global MNEs’ sustainability. However, the model excludes the MNEs’ internal institutions, home country institutions, as well as institutional and cognitive distances.

Originality/value

The conceptual model addresses the dynamics of MNEs’ entry decisions with long-term strategic vision. It helps to recognize the global MNEs’ internalization of the host country’s formal and informal institutions when the bargaining power is in imbalance.
A role of mulberry leaves in improving resistance to virus‐mediated disease in Allomyrina dichotoma
Authors: Kwak Kyu‐Won , Han Myung‐Sae , Kim Sun Young , Kim Eunsun , Kim Nang‐Hee , Park Kwanho , Kim Yong‐Soon , Lee Heui‐Sam
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to develop a safe and effective method for preventing Allomyrina dichotoma nudivirus (AdNV) infection in the Korean horned beetle, Allomyrina dichotoma, found on the farms in the Republic of Korea. Mulberry leaf powder was added to fermented oak sawdust to minimize mortality in AdNV‐infected A. dichotoma. Mulberry leaves were found to contain 1‐deoxynojirimycin, which has anti‐inflammatory, antiviral, and anti‐tumor effects. Based on the proposed antiviral effects of mulberry leaves, a feed of fermented sawdust combined with 1% or 5% mulberry leaf powder was fed to AdNV‐infected second or third stage A. dichotoma larvae. The larval mortality rate was recorded over 10 weeks. The second and third instar larvae that were fed with the sawdust mixture with 5% mulberry leaf powder had mortality rates of 60% and 30%, respectively. In contrast, the control group that was fed with the sawdust without mulberry leaf powder had a mortality rate of 100%. Also, we confirmed that AdNV was not detected in the experimental group that was subjected to an outdoor application test for 8 months with mulberry leaf powder treatment. A reduced mortality rate after treatment with 1% mulberry leaf powder was observed in the field application. In addition, a comparison of the control colony and mulberry leaf treated group showed a statistical difference in growth of larvae at various states, and demonstrated the efficiency of mulberry leaf powder combined with fermented sawdust for treatment of AdNV‐ infected A. dichotoma.
Identification and expression analysis of cytochrome P450 genes in Plecoptera oculata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Lyu Zihao , Kong Delong , Cheng Jie , Lin Tong
Published: January 2020

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) play an important role in the decomposition of insecticides. Plecoptera oculata Moore is a lepidopteran forestry pest that severely affects Dalbergia odorifera T. Chen. In this study, 27 putative CYP genes were identified in the transcriptome of larval P. oculata. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these genes are grouped into four clans, 15 families, and 22 subfamilies. The tissue‐specific expression profile for each gene was determined using real‐time reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR), and the 27 genes were found to be ubiquitously expressed, mainly in the midgut, Malpighian tubules, and fat body. The expression profiles of all 27 PoCYP genes exposed to half the lethal concentration (LC50) of sendebao and lambda‐cyhalothrin were determined using RT‐qPCR. The results showed that six and twelve PoCYP genes were significantly down‐ and up‐regulated, respectively, by exposure to sendebao, and three and twelve PoCYP genes were significantly down‐ and up‐regulated, respectively, by exposure to lambda‐cyhalothrin. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to show the expression of CYP genes in P. oculata. Our results provide a basis for further investigation of the roles of PoCYP genes in insecticide detoxification and as potential targets for novel pesticides.
The potential for organ donation in Iceland: A nationwide study of deaths in intensive care units
Authors: Palsson Thordur P. , Sigvaldason Kristinn , Kristjansdottir Thora E. , Thorkelsson Thordur , Blondal Asbjorn T. , Karason Sigurbergur , Palsson Runolfur
Published: January 2020

Background

The deceased organ donation rate in Iceland has been low compared with other Western countries. The aim of this study was to explore the potential for organ donation after brain death in Iceland.

Methods

Observational cohort study of patients with catastrophic brain injury who died in intensive care units (ICUs) at hospitals in Iceland in 2003‐2016. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to identify potential donors (PDs), using the WHO Critical Pathway for Deceased Donation. Trends in annual incidence of PDs, conversion to actual donors, and family refusals were assessed.

Results

Among 1537 patients who died in the ICU, 125 (8.1%) were identified as PDs. Of 103 PDs who were declared brain dead, consent for organ donation was pursued in 84 cases and granted in 63. Fifty‐six became actual donors. The annual donation rate averaged 13 per million population (pmp), but rose abruptly in the final 2 years to 36 and 27 pmp, respectively. This was paralleled by an increase in annual incidence of PDs from an average of 28 pmp to 54 and 42 pmp, respectively. The donor conversion rate increased during the study period (P = .026). Twenty‐three PDs (18%) were not pursued without an apparent reason.

Conclusions

The donation rate increased markedly in the last 2 years of the study period after remaining low for more than a decade. This change can largely be explained by a high incidence of PDs and a low family refusal rate. Missed donation opportunities suggest a potential to maintain a high donation rate in the future.
Modelling the effects of alcohol pricing policies on alcohol consumption in subpopulations in Australia
Authors: Jiang Heng , Livingston Michael , Room Robin , Callinan Sarah , Marzan Melvin , Brennan Alan , Doran Christopher
Published: January 2020

Aims

To model the effects of a range of alcohol pricing policies on alcohol consumption in subpopulation groups (e.g. alcohol consumption pattern, and age and income groups) in Australia.

Design

We used estimated price elasticities to model the effects of proposed pricing policies on consumption for 11 beverage categories among subpopulation groups.

Setting

Australia.

Participants

A total of 1789 adults (16+ years) who reported they purchased and consumed alcohol in the 2013 Australian International Alcohol Control Study, an adult population survey.

Measurements

Mean and percentage changes in alcohol consumption were estimated for each scenario across subgroups. The policy scenarios evaluated included: (1) increasing the excise rate 10% for all off‐premise beverages; (2) replacing the wine equalization tax with a volumetric excise rate equal to the current spirits tax rate; (3) applying a uniform excise tax rate to all beverages equal to the current sprits tax rate and a 10 or 20% increase in it; and(4) introducing a minimum unit price (MUP) on all beverages categories at $1.00, 1.30 or 1.50.

Findings

The effects of different tax and MUP policies varied greatly across different subgroups. The effects of the MUP policy on alcohol consumption increased rapidly in the range from $1.00 to $1.50. Applying a uniform tax rate across all beverages equal to current spirits tax rate, or a 10 or 20% increase beyond that, could generate large reductions in overall alcohol consumption in Australia. Compared with the uniform tax rate with or without further tax increase, introducing a MUP at $1.30 or $1.50 could reduce consumption particularly among harmful drinkers and lower‐income drinkers, with comparatively smaller impacts on moderate and higher‐income drinkers.

Conclusions

Both uniform excise tax and minimum unit price policies are predicted to reduce alcohol consumption in Australia. Minimum unit price policies are predicted to have a greater impact on drinking among harmful drinkers than moderate drinkers.
Rutin protects boar sperm from cryodamage via enhancing the antioxidative defense
Authors: Xu Dejun , Wu Lin , Yang Li , Liu Dingbang , Chen Huali , Geng Guoxia , Li Qingwang
Published: January 2020

This study was aimed to investigate whether and how Rutin protects boar sperm against cryoinjury during cryopreservation. Five concentrations of Rutin with 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 1.0, and 2.0 mM were added to the freezing extender of boar sperm, respectively, and the effects on quality and function of boar sperm after freezing‐thawing were assessed. The results showed that the sperm motility, mitochondrial activity, plasma membrane integrity, and acrosomal integrity were significantly improved in 0.4 mM and 0.6 mM Rutin groups (p < .05). Compared with ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) or Tanshinone IIA, Rutin exhibited higher rates of mitochondrial activity and acrosome integrity (p < .05). Mechanistically, the addition of Rutin at the concentration of 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 mM significantly attenuated ROS accumulation and MDA production by improving antioxidant enzymatic activity, including SOD, CAT, and GSH‐Px (p < .05). Functionally, a higher penetration rate and the increased total efficiency of fertilization were observed in the 0.4, 0.6, and 1.0 mM Rutin groups than in the control group (p < .05). Moreover, the addition of Rutin (0.6 mM) significantly induced an increase in both the cleavage and blastocyst rates (p < .05). In summary, supplementation with Rutin in cryopreservation medium protects boar sperm against ROS attack by enhancing the antioxidative defense.
Procreation machines: Ectogenesis as reproductive enhancement, proper medicine or a step towards posthumanism?
Authors: Eichinger Johanna , Eichinger Tobias
Published: January 2020

Full ectogenesis as the complete externalization of human reproduction by bypassing the bodily processes of gestation and childbirth can be considered the culmination of genetic and reproductive technologies. Despite its still being a hypothetical scenario, it has been discussed for decades as the ultimate means to liberate women from their reproductive tasks in society and hence finally end fundamental gender injustices generally. In the debate about the application of artificial wombs to achieve gender equality, one aspect is barely mentioned but is of crucial relevance from a medical‐ethical perspective: whether and how could full ectogenesis be justified as a proper use of medicine? After characterizing the technology as a special form of human enhancement and as an extension of medical practice that goes beyond the traditional field of medicine, this paper critically assesses the theoretical possibilities of legitimizing this extension. We identify two ways of justification: either one argues that ectogenesis fulfils a proper goal of medicine (a justification we call pathologization), or one argues that the application of ectogenesis achieves a non‐medical goal (which we call medicalization). Because it is important from a medical‐ethical point of view to avoid an inappropriate instrumentalization or misuse of medicine and thus an undue medicalization of non‐medical problems, a set of necessary conditions has to be met. It is doubtful whether full ectogenesis for non‐medical purposes could fulfil these conditions. Rather, its comprehensive usage could be seen as a revolutionary modification of what it means to be human.
Prepared for transition? A cross‐sectional descriptive study of the gains attained in early psychosis programs
Authors: McCay Elizabeth , Tibbo Philip , Conrad Gretchen , Crocker Candice , Langley John , Kirwan Nicole , Aiello Andria , Danaher Audrey , Sheasgreen Clare
Published: January 2020

Aim

To examine the degree to which youth identified as ready for discharge from three Canadian early psychosis intervention (EPI) programs had achieved optimal outcomes (ie, symptom remission, quality of life, self‐esteem and functioning).

Methods

This cross‐sectional descriptive study is part of a larger study assessing the effectiveness of an evidence‐based intervention to sustain the gains acquired in EPI programs in two Canadian provinces (Ontario and Nova Scotia), as youth transition from EPI services to community‐based care. Baseline data collected from 39 participants receiving usual treatment in these three EPI programs comprised the comparison group. Participants completed measures to assess symptoms, quality of life, self‐esteem and functional level just prior to discharge.

Results

Participants demonstrated lower levels of symptoms, greater quality of life, greater self‐esteem and greater levels of functioning, following EPI treatment when compared to similar youth described in the literature. These findings suggest that study participants had achieved optimal outcomes following EPI treatment.

Conclusion

The study findings have laid the ground work for the current Canadian Institutes of Health Research partnership study in which our research group is assessing the effectiveness of an evidence‐based transitional intervention in order to address critical psychosocial issues of identity, stigma, effective relationships and meaningful life goals, along with the development of an individualized ‘passport for transition’. It is anticipated that implementing an evidence‐based transitional intervention will support participants to maintain the gains made in EPI programs once they transition to community‐based care and will inform future research addressing this challenging issue.
Proximate causes and consequences of intergenerational influences of salient sensory experience
Authors: Aoued Hadj S. , Sannigrahi Soma , Hunter Sarah C. , Doshi Nandini , Sathi Zakia S. , Chan Anthony W. S. , Walum Hasse , Dias Brian G.
Published: January 2020

Salient sensory environments experienced by a parental generation can exert intergenerational influences on offspring. While these data provide an exciting new perspective on biological inheritance, questions remain about causes and consequences of intergenerational influences of salient sensory experience. We previously showed that exposing male mice to a salient olfactory experience, like olfactory fear conditioning, resulted in offspring demonstrating a sensitivity to the odor used to condition the paternal generation and possessing enhanced neuroanatomical representation for that odor. In this study, we first injected RNA extracted from sperm of male mice that underwent olfactory fear conditioning into naïve single‐cell zygotes and found that adults that developed from these embryos had increased sensitivity and enhanced neuroanatomical representation for the odor (Odor A) with which the paternal male had been conditioned. Next, we found that female, but not male offspring sired by males conditioned with Odor A show enhanced consolidation of a weak single‐trial Odor A + shock fear conditioning protocol. Our data provide evidence that RNA found in the paternal germline after exposure to salient sensory experiences can contribute to intergenerational influences of such experiences, and that such intergenerational influences confer an element of adaptation to the offspring. In so doing, our study of intergenerational influences of parental sensory experience adds to existing literature on intergenerational influences of parental exposures to stress and dietary manipulations and suggests that some causes (sperm RNA) and consequences (behavioral flexibility) of intergenerational influences of parental experiences may be conserved across a variety of parental experiences.
Investigating the relationship between climate, stand age, and temporal trends in masting behavior of European forest trees
Authors: Pesendorfer Mario B. , Bogdziewicz Michał , Szymkowiak Jakub , Borowski Zbigniew , Kantorowicz Władysław , Espelta Josep M. , Fernández‐Martínez Marcos
Published: January 2020

Masting—temporally variable seed production with high spatial synchrony—is a pervasive strategy in wind‐pollinated trees that is hypothesized to be vulnerable to climate change due to its correlation with variability in abiotic conditions. Recent work suggests that aging may also have strong effects on seed production patterns of trees, but this potential confounding factor has not been considered in previous times series analysis of climate change effects. Using a 54 year dataset for seven dominant species in 17 forests across Poland, we used the proportion of seed‐producing trees (PST) to contrast the predictions of the climate change and aging hypotheses in Abies alba, Fagus sylvatica, Larix decidua, Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris, Quercus petraea, and Quercus robur. Our results show that in all species, PST increased over time and that this change correlated most strongly with stand age, while the standardized precipitation–evapotranspiration index, a measure of drought, contributed to temporal trends in PST of F. sylvatica and Q. robur. Temporal variability of PST also increased over time in all species except P. sylvestris, while trends in temporal autocorrelation and among‐stand synchrony reflect species‐specific masting strategies. Our results suggest a pivotal role of plant ontogeny in driving not only the extent but also variability and synchrony of reproduction in temperate forest trees. In a time of increasing forest regrowth in Europe, we therefore call for increased attention to demographic effects such as aging on plant reproductive behavior, particularly in studies examining global change effects using long‐term time series data.
The effect of mating on female reproduction across hermaphroditic freshwater snails
Authors: Swart Elferra M. , Starkloff Naima C. , Ypenburg Sanne , Ellers Jacintha , van Straalen Nico M. , Koene Joris M.
Published: January 2020

Sexual conflicts often arise between mating partners because each sex tries to maximize its own reproductive success. One major male strategy to influence a partner's resource allocation is the transfer of accessory gland proteins. This has been shown to occur in simultaneous hermaphrodites as well as in organisms with separate sexes. Although accessory gland proteins affect the investment of resources in both male and female function, we here specifically focus on female investment. In the great pond snail, Lymnaea stagnalis, previous studies found that the accessory gland protein ovipostatin reduced female fecundity by suppressing egg laying in the partner in the short term (days). To investigate whether this reduction in egg laying is a commonly found effect of mating in freshwater snails, we compared egg output for evidence of suppression in isolated and paired snails of eight pulmonate species. Furthermore, we determined whether the suppression of egg laying caused a shift in resource allocation to the eggs. We found that in five of the eight species egg laying was suppressed, with fewer and lighter egg masses being laid when they had access to a mating partner. In mated pairs of L. stagnalis and Biomphalaria alexandrina, allocation of resources to the eggs was altered in opposite ways: individuals of L. stagnalis laid fewer but larger and heavier eggs; individuals of B. alexandrina laid smaller and lighter eggs, with no change in egg numbers. Such changes in the female function are most likely the result of combined effects of receiving accessory gland proteins, and the cost of mating in both male and female roles. Thus, effects of the maternal environment, including the receipt of accessory gland proteins, on offspring investment are not restricted to species with separate sexes.
Controllable synthesis of glass ceramics containing YF3:Eu3+ nanocrystals: Well‐preserved Eu and prolonged lifetime
Authors: Luo Peili , Huang Ping , Wang Jiancheng , Yao Chengfang , Zhao Yuye , Zhou Beiying , Zheng Qi , Zhang Xin , Jiang Wan , Wang Lianjun
Published: January 2020

Monolithic luminescent glass‐ceramic (GC) embedded with fluoride‐based nanocrystals (NCs) has drawn much attention as it is stable and possesses long fluorescent lifetime, while only small partial of optically active ions could enter the fluoride NCs prepared by conventional crystallization process. In this work, YF3:Eu3+ embedded GCs have been controllably synthesized by Spark Plasma Sintering at a relatively low sintering temperature (960°C) within 10 minutes. The GC samples show typical sharp reddish‐orange emissions peaking at λ = 590 nm and 620 nm, which can be ascribed to the 5D0 → 7Fj transitions of Eu3+ located in the tetrahedral coordination sites of the YF3 NCs. Significantly, a small R/O ratio (photoluminescence intensity ratio of 5D0 → 7F2/5D0 → 7F1) suggests that majority of Eu3+ ions are well preserved in YF3 NCs, which is confirmed by the EDS and TEM results that highly crystallized YF3:Eu3+ NCs are homogeneously dispersed into the silica glass matrix without interfacial reaction. Hence, the lifetime of GC sample is prolonged to 6.8 ms These results demonstrate that Eu3+ could be well protected and resided in YF3 low phonon crystal by this method to fabricate GC composites with high optical performance.
Predation risk and competition affect habitat use of adult perch, Perca fluviatilis
Authors: Henseler Christina , Nordström Marie C. , Törnroos Anna , Snickars Martin , Bonsdorff Erik
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study was to examine how the presence of a predator and an interspecific competitor influence the habitat use of adult perch (Perca fluviatilis; size: 15.1 ± 0.5 cm) when given the choice between two adjacent habitats. By conducting aquarium experiments, the habitat occupancy of P. fluviatilis was documented in the presence and absence of a predator (pike Esox lucius; size: 25.4 ± 2.1 cm) and a potential competitor (ruffe Gymnocephalus cernuus; size: 14.1 ± 0.3 cm) fish species. Two P. fluviatilis individuals generally shared the same habitat. In the presence of a conspecific, P. fluviatilis favoured the structurally more‐complex, artificial macrophyte habitat over the less‐structured rock and sand habitat, which in turn were used equally. In the predator‐ and competitor treatments, P. fluviatilis seemed to adapt their habitat use to the habitat occupancy of E. lucius and G. cernuus in the Macrophyte vs. Rock and, in the predator treatment, also in the Macrophyte vs. Sand habitat combination, by increasingly occupying a habitat that was used less by the predator or competitor species, respectively. This behaviour suggests that P. fluviatilis tried to avoid the other fish species by choosing a, in some cases less preferred, predator‐ or competitor‐free habitat. This study emphasizes the importance of biological interactions illustrated by the potential of predation risk and competition to structure fish communities by influencing habitat use at small spatial scales.
Infrared radiation drying of parboiled rice: Influence of temperature and grain bed depth in quality aspects
Authors: Timm Newiton da Silva , Lang Gustavo H. , Ferreira Cristiano D. , Pohndorf Ricardo S. , de Oliveira Maurício
Published: January 2020

The main objective of this study was to optimize the infrared radiation (IR) drying of parboiled rice on the temperatures of 70, 100, and 130°C and grain bed depth of 5, 10, and 15 mm. The effects of the temperature and grain bed depth on drying kinetics, head rice yield (HRY), milling and color parameters, and cooking properties were evaluated using response surface methodology. The drying temperature and bed depth presented a significant effect on HRY, whiteness, transparency, milling degree, L*, C*, relative crystallinity, cooking time, leached amylose, solubilized protein, and hardness. The longer exposure times to IR resulted in grains with an increase in the intensity of endosperm fissures and lower HRY. There is a tendency that the best condition to dry parboiled rice with IR is at higher temperatures and lower grain bed depth.

Practical applications

The present study optimized infrared radiation drying of parboiled rice as a function of the drying temperature and grain bed depth. The results provide scientific support on making decision during industrial rice processes. Severe infrared radiation drying conditions can reduce the HRY, increase cooking time, and intensify undesired sensory attributes.
Agencia indígena y recuperación de territorio: Caso del líder yukpa Sabino Romero en la Sierra de Perijá
Authors: Briceño Luis Alfredo
Published: January 2020

En este artículo, analizo la forma en que los yukpas de la Sierra de Perijá, Venezuela, construyen su agencia a partir de sus propias lógicas culturales, que sancionan la formación de líderes fuertes y comprometidos con la recuperación de territorios perdidos a manos de ganaderos criollos. Estos líderes, intentan obtener tierras para distribuirlas entre sus parientes y así mantener las disposiciones de la estructura de parentesco en torno a la reproducción social de la autoridad y la cultura. Para entender la acción política de los yukpas, describo la figura esencial del cacique Sabino Romero, asesinado en 2013.
Assessing the potential of environmental DNA metabarcoding for monitoring Neotropical mammals: a case study in the Amazon and Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Sales Naiara Guimarães , Kaizer Mariane da Cruz , Coscia Ilaria , Perkins Joseph C. , Highlands Andrew , Boubli Jean P. , Magnusson William E. , Da Silva Maria Nazareth Ferreira , Benvenuto Chiara , Mcdevitt Allan D.
Published: January 2020

The application of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a biomonitoring tool has greatly increased, but studies have focused on temperate aquatic macro‐organisms. We apply eDNA metabarcoding to detecting the mammalian community in two high‐biodiversity regions of Brazil: the Amazon and Atlantic Forests. We identified Critically Endangered and Endangered mammalian species and found overlap with species identified via camera trapping. We highlight the potential for using eDNA monitoring for mammals in biodiverse regions and identify challenges: we need a better understanding of the ecology of eDNA within variable environments and more appropriate reference sequences for species identification in these anthropogenically impacted biomes.
Coesite in a Muong Nong‐type tektite from Muong Phin, Laos: Description, formation, and survival
Authors: Glass Billy P. , Folco Luigi , Masotta Matteo , Campanale Fabrizio
Published: January 2020

We examined 16 white opaque inclusions exposed on two polished slices of a Muong Nong‐type Australasian tektite from Muong Phin, Laos. The inclusions usually consist of a core, surrounded by a froth layer, and a quartz neoblast layer. The cores are composed primarily of a mixture of silica glass, coesite, and quartz in varying proportions. A thin (up to ~4 μm) layer of SiO2‐poor glass enriched in FeO, MgO, CaO, Al2O3, and TiO2 is observed as a bright halo in backscattered electron images around the quartz neoblasts and in places contains μm‐sized crystals, which may be Fe,Mg‐rich spinel. The distribution and textural relationships between the coesite‐bearing inclusions and the tektite matrix point to an in situ formation of the coesite due to an impact, rather than to infall, from a nearby impact, into tektite melt produced by the aerial burst of a bolide. The quartz neoblasts probably formed by crystallization of silica melt squeezed out of the inclusion core during the development of the froth layer. The bright halo may be the result of silica diffusing from the adjacent tektite melt into the growing quartz neoblasts. We propose that the survival of coesite was possible due to the froth layer that acted as a heat sink during bubble expansion and then as a thermal insulator.
Can advanced glycation end‐products and their receptors be affected by weight loss? A systematic review
Authors: Tavares Juliana F. , Ribeiro Priscila V. M. , Coelho Olívia G. L. , Silva Laís E. da , Alfenas Rita C. G.
Published: January 2020

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of most chronic diseases. Therefore, identification of treatments that can attenuate the effects of these compounds and prevent cardiometabolic complications is of extreme public health interest. Recently, body weight management interventions showed positive results on reducing serum AGE concentrations. Moreover, the soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) is considered to be a novel biomarker to identify patients with obesity most likely to benefit from weight management interventions. This systematic review aimed to critically analyze papers evaluating the effects of weight loss on serum AGEs and its receptors in adults with excess body weight. MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, and Lilacs databases were searched. Three studies evaluating the response of AGEs to energy‐restricted diets and six assessing sRAGE as the primary outcome were included. Energy‐restricted diets and bariatric surgery reduced serum AGE concentrations, but effects on endogenous secretory RAGE (esRAGE) and sRAGE concentrations are conflicting. These results may be associated with mechanisms related to changes in dietary intake and limiting endogenous AGE formation. Therefore, the role of energy‐restricted diets and bariatric surgery on lowering serum AGE concentrations, as well as its effects on AGEs receptors, deserves further investigation.
Pleurodesis and systemic inflammatory markers: Lessons and insights
Authors: Chan John Y. H. , Lee Y.C. Gary
Published: January 2020

See related Article
Comparing negative emotion differentiation in young and older individuals: A picture‐based study
Authors: Mikkelsen Mai Bjørnskov , O’Toole Mia Skytte , Mehlsen Mimi
Published: January 2020

Life span theories suggest that emotional experiences become more complex (i.e., nuanced and differentiated) with age. Theoretically, the cause of this increased complexity has been proposed to be age‐related changes in life contexts such as goals and daily stressors. Consequently, age may not affect emotional complexity in settings where the influence of age‐specific life contexts is reduced. However, this hypothesis has yet to be explored. In the present study, we investigated one aspect of emotional complexity, namely emotion differentiation. Extending previous research, we assessed age‐group differences in negative emotion differentiation between young and older adults in a controlled experimental setting. A sample of 114 young and 132 older adults rated their emotional response to 34 negative pictures according to intensity of four negative emotions. Based on these ratings, two indicators of emotion differentiation were calculated. The results revealed no significant age‐group differences in negative emotion differentiation. The findings indicate stability in negative emotion differentiation with increasing age when the influence of life context is reduced. The findings are consistent with life span theories suggesting that developmental changes in emotional complexity occur largely as a result of age‐related changes in life contexts rather than more stable age‐related changes in individual characteristics.
Corneoconjunctival transposition for the treatment of deep stromal to full‐thickness corneal defects in dogs: A multicentric retrospective study of 100 cases (2012‐2018)
Authors: Gogova Savina , Leiva Marta , Ortillés Ángel , Lacerda Rodrigo P. , Seruca Cristina , Laguna Fernando , Crasta Manuela , Ríos Jose , Peña Maria Teresa
Published: January 2020

Objective

To describe and evaluate the use of corneoconjunctival transposition (CTT) as a surgical treatment for canine deep stromal ulcers, descemetoceles, and full‐thickness corneal defects and to determine its efficacy in preserving corneal graft transparency and vision.

Animals studied

One hundred client‐owned dogs with deep stromal ulcers, descemetoceles, or full‐thickness corneal defects.

Methods

Medical records of canine patients that underwent CCT, from 2012 to 2018, were reviewed. Only, patients with preoperative positive consensual pupillary light and dazzle reflexes were included.

Results

There were 59 males and 41 females, from 0.3 to 17 years. Brachycephalic breeds were overrepresented (65%). All patients were unilaterally affected, with 16 deep stromal ulcers, 33 descemetoceles, and 51 corneal perforations, of a median (range) size of 4 (2‐8) mm. The central cornea was affected in the majority of cases (57%), and euryblepharon and keratoconjunctivitis sicca were the most common concurrent ocular diseases (42% and 40%, respectively). The graft was most frequently harvested from dorsal (67%), and 9/0 absorbable suture material was used. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were seen in 7 and 21 cases, respectively. Mean follow‐up time was 107.8 days. Vision was preserved in 96% patients, with 62% showing faint to mild opacification. Among the statistically analyzed variables, euryblepharon and pigmentary keratitis were found to be significantly associated with greater corneal graft opacification (P = .040 andP = .028, respectively).

Conclusions

Corneoconjunctival transposition is an effective surgical treatment for deep stromal, descemetocele, and full‐thickness corneal defects in dogs, achieving a highly satisfactory degree of corneal graft transparency and preserving vision.
In effort to save hemlocks, a rare glimpse of hope
Authors: Popkin Gabriel
Published: January 2020

Introduced predatory beetle eats deadly aphidlike pest, long-term study finds, but trees are still at risk.
High-resolution dating of Paleozoic fossils
Authors: Wagner Peter
Published: January 2020

Refined ages of marine fossils clarify the timing of diversification and extinction events
Do bans help modern public health?
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O.
Published: January 2020

A century ago, the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution went into effect, banning the “manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors.” Fourteen years after its ratification, the 18th Amendment was repealed by the 21st Amendment. What did Prohibition teach us about banning hazardous products like alcohol, tobacco, or e-cigarettes?
The Late Domain of Prototype Foamy Virus Gag Facilitates Autophagic Clearance of Stress Granules by Promoting Amphisome Formation
Authors: Zheng Yingcheng , Zhu Guoguo , Yan Jun , Tang Yinglian , Han Song , Yin Jun , Peng Biwen , He Xiaohua , Liu Wanhong
Published: January 2020

Maintenance of lifelong latent infection for viruses relies on repression of the type I IFN response. Autophagy plays a double-edged sword in antiviral immunity. However, the role of autophagy in the regulation of the type I IFN response and the mechanism involving virus-promoted autophagy have not been fully elucidated. SGs are an immune complex associated with the antiviral immune response and are critical for type I IFN production. Autophagic clearance of SGs is one means of degradation of SGs and is associated with regulation of immunity, but the detailed mechanism remains unclear. In this article, we demonstrate that PFV Gag recruits ESCRT-I to facilitate amphisome formation. Our data also suggest that amphisome formation is a critical event for autophagic clearance of SGs and repression of the type I IFN response. More importantly, we found a novel mechanism by which a retrovirus inhibits the SG response to repress the type I IFN response.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Non-Microcystin-Producing Microcystis aeruginosa Strain KLA2, Isolated from a Freshwater Reservoir in Northern California, USA
Authors: Moisander Pia H. , Ochiai Mari
Published: January 2020

We report a draft genome sequence for
Microcystis aeruginosa
KLA2. The total draft genome size is 5,213,465 bp with a GC content of 42.5%. The genome does not have genes indicative of microcystin production but does contain genes indicative of production of several other secondary metabolites.
Genome Sequence Analysis of
Enterobacter
sp. C6, Found in the Pitcher Fluids of
Sarracenia rosea
Authors: Zhang Shumeng , Chaluvadi Srinivasa R. , Bennetzen Jeffrey L.
Published: January 2020

An unclassified
Enterobacter
strain was isolated from the pitcher fluids of a
Sarracenia rosea
pitcher plant growing at Splinter Hill Bog in Alabama. Its genome was sequenced using the Illumina platform. A genome assembly of 4,673,815 bp was obtained. In total, 4,646 protein-encoding sequences and 72 RNA genes are predicted from this assembly.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycobacteriophage Faze9
Authors: Grossi John , Shebby John , Brey Christopher W.
Published: January 2020

Mycobacteriophage Faze9 is a novel lytic phage that was isolated from soil collected in Scranton, PA, using the host
Mycobacterium smegmatis
mc
2
155. Faze9 has a double-stranded DNA genome composed of 67,503 kbp, has a G+C content of 68.9%, encodes 91 predicted proteins, and is closely related to mycobacteriophages in the B2 subcluster.