bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High Rate of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Arabs: Results of a Large-scale Survey
Authors: Qunaibi Eyad A. , Helmy Mohamed , Basheti Iman , Sultan Iyad
Published: March 2021

In this study, we present the results of the first large-scale multinational study (36,220 participants) that measures vaccine hesitancy among Arab-speaking subjects. Our analysis shows a significant rate of vaccine hesitancy among Arabs in and outside the Arab region (83% and 81%, respectively). The most cited reasons for hesitancy are concerns about side effects and distrust in healthcare policies, vaccine expedited production, published studies and vaccine producing companies. We also found that female participants, participants 30-59 year-old, those with no chronic diseases, those with lower-level of academic education, and those who do not know the type of vaccine authorized in their countries are more hesitant to receive COVID-19 vaccination. On the other hand, participants who regularly receive the influenza vaccine, health care workers, and those from countries with higher rates of COVID-19 infections showed more vaccination willingness. Interactive representation of our results is posted on our project website at https://mainapp.shinyapps.io/CVHAA.
c-Myc plays a key role in IFN-γ induced persistence ofChlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Vollmuth Nadine , Janaki-Raman Sudha , Schlicker Lisa , Kurmasheva Naziia , Schmitz Werner , Schulze Almut , Rudel Thomas , Rajeeve Karthika
Published: March 2021

Chlamydia trachomatis (Ctr)can persist over long periods of time within their host cell and thereby establish chronic infections. One of the major inducers of chlamydial persistence is interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) released by immune cells as a mechanism of immune defence. IFN-γ activates the catabolic depletion of L-tryptophan (Trp) via indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), resulting in persistentChlamydia. Here we show that IFN-γ depletes c-Myc, the key regulator of host cell metabolism, in a STAT1-dependent manner. Expression of c-Myc rescuedChlamydiafrom IFN-γ-induced persistence in cultured cell lines, but also in human fallopian tube organoids. L-tryptophan concentrations control c-Myc levels via the PI3K-GSK3ß axis. Unbiased metabolic analysis revealed thatChlamydiainfection reprograms the host cell tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle to support pyrimidine biosynthesis. Addition of TCA cycle intermediates or pyrimidine/purine nucleosides to infected cells rescuedChlamydiafrom IFN-γ-induced persistence. Thus, our results challenge the longstanding hypothesis of L-tryptophan depletion through IDO as the major mechanism of IFN-γ-induced metabolic immune defence and significantly extends the understanding of the role IFN-γ as a broad modulator of host cell metabolism.
Meta-analytic connectivity modelling of deception-related brain regions
Authors: Meier Sarah K. , Ray Kimberly L. , Mastan Juliana C. , Salvage Savannah R. , Robin Donald A.
Published: March 2021

Brain-based deception research began only two decades ago and has since included a wide variety of contexts and response modalities for deception paradigms. Investigations of this sort serve to better our neuroscientific and legal knowledge of the ways in which individuals deceive others. To this end, we conducted activation likelihood estimation (ALE) and meta-analytic connectivity modelling (MACM) using BrainMap software to examine 45 task-based fMRI brain activation studies on deception. An activation likelihood estimation comparing activations during deceptive versus honest behavior revealed 7 significant peak activation clusters (bilateral insula, left superior frontal gyrus, bilateral supramarginal gyrus, and bilateral medial frontal gyrus). Meta-analytic connectivity modelling revealed an interconnected network amongst the 7 regions comprising both unidirectional and bidirectional connections. Together with subsequent behavioral and paradigm decoding, these findings implicate the supramarginal gyrus as a key component for the sociocognitive process of deception.
Subject-specific whole-brain parcellations of nodes and boundaries are modulated differently under 10Hz rTMS
Authors: Belov Vladimir , Kozyrev Vladislav , Singh Aditya , Sacchet Matthew D. , Goya-Maldonado Roberto
Published: March 2021

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has gained considerable importance in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depression. However, it is not yet understood how rTMS alters brain’s functional connectivity. Here we report changes in functional connectivity captured by resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) within the first hour after 10Hz rTMS. We apply subject-specific parcellation schemes to detect changes (1) in network nodes, where the strongest functional connectivity of regions is observed, and (2) in network boundaries, where functional transitions between regions occur. We use support vector machines (SVM), a widely used machine learning algorithm that is robust and effective for the classification and characterization of time intervals of changes in node and boundary maps. Our results reveal that changes in connectivity at the boundaries are slower and more complex than in those observed in the nodes, but of similar magnitude according to accuracy confidence intervals. These results were strongest in the posterior cingulate cortex and precuneus. As network boundaries are indeed under-investigated in comparison to nodes in connectomics research, our results highlight their contribution to functional adjustments to rTMS.
Proteomics-based determination of double stranded RNA interactome reveals known and new factors involved in Sindbis virus infection
Authors: Girardi Erika , Messmer Mélanie , Lopez Paula , Fender Aurélie , Chicher Johana , Chane-Woon-Ming Béatrice , Hammann Philippe , Pfeffer Sébastien
Published: March 2021

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, which depend on the host cellular machineries to replicate their genome and complete their infectious cycle. Long double stranded (ds)RNA is a common viral by-product originating during RNA virus replication and is universally sensed as a danger signal to trigger the antiviral response. As a result, viruses hide dsRNA intermediates into viral replication factories and have evolved strategies to hijack cellular proteins for their benefit. The characterization of the host factors associated with viral dsRNA and involved in viral replication remains a major challenge to develop new antiviral drugs against RNA viruses. Here, we performed anti-dsRNA immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry analysis to fully characterize the dsRNA interactome in Sindbis virus (SINV) infected human cells. Among the identified proteins, we characterized SFPQ (Splicing factor, proline-glutamine rich) as a new dsRNA-associated proviral factor upon SINV infection. We showed that SFPQ depletion reduces SINV infection in human HCT116 and SK-N-BE(2) cells, suggesting that SFPQ enhances viral production. We demonstrated that the cytoplasmic fraction of SFPQ partially colocalizes with dsRNA upon SINV infection. In agreement, we proved by RNA-IP that SFPQ can bind dsRNA and viral RNA. Furthermore, we showed that overexpression of a wild type, but not an RNA binding mutant SFPQ, increased viral infection, suggesting that RNA binding is essential for its positive effect on the virus. Overall, this study provides the community with a compendium of dsRNA-associated factors during viral infection and identifies SFPQ as a new proviral dsRNA binding protein.
All-polymeric transient neural probe for prolonged in-vivo electrophysiological recordings
Authors: Ferlauto Laura , Vagni Paola , Zollinger Elodie Geneviève , Fanelli Adele , Monsorno Katia , Paolicelli Rosa Chiara , Ghezzi Diego
Published: March 2021

Transient bioelectronics has grown fast, opening possibilities never thought before. In medicine, transient implantable devices are interesting because they could eliminate the risks related to surgical retrieval and reduce the chronic foreign body reaction. However, despite recent progress in this area, the short functional lifetime of devices due to short-lived transient metals, which is typically a few days or weeks, still limits the potential of transient medical devices. We report that a switch from transient metals to an entirely polymer-based approach allows for a slower degradation process and a longer lifetime of the transient probe, thus opening new possibilities for transient medical devices. As a proof-of-concept, we fabricated all-polymeric transient neural probes that can monitor brain activity in mice for a few months rather than a few days or weeks. Also, we extensively evaluated the foreign body reaction around the implant during the probe’s degradation. This kind of devices might pave the way for several applications in neuroprosthetics.
Design for maintainability tool for nano-façade coating applications on high-rise facades in the tropics
Authors: Conejos Sheila , Ubando Aristotle , Chew Michael Yit Lin
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The self-cleaning properties of nanostructured titanium dioxide facade coatings are useful in Singapore's tropical climate. However, its potential maintenance issues need to be determined right at the design stage. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the development of the design for maintainability tool which is a multicriteria design decision score sheet that evaluates the maintainability potential of nano-facade coating applications on high-rise façades with concrete and stonemasonry finishes and curtain walls.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative methods (expert and practitioner surveys) are conducted in this research study. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and sensitivity analysis were used to develop a robust Design for Maintainability tool.

Findings

Safety measures indicator received the highest weighted score by experts, while the maximizing performance, minimizing risk, minimizing negative environmental impact and minimizing consumption of matter and energy were the top ranking main criteria by both experts and practitioners. The top ranked design for maintainability sub-criteria identified by practitioners and experts were risk management, maintenance considerations, climatic conditions, safety measures, lifecycle cost and maintenance access, sun's path, rainfall intensity, biological growth measures and building age profile.

Originality/value

Most researches on the maintainability of nano-façade coatings uses experimentation to test the durability of nano-façade coatings, while this study focuses on design based empirical data such as establishing and ranking the list of design for maintainability criteria or indicators to minimize future defects and maintenance issues. The design for maintainability tool contributes to the maintainability of nano-façade coatings leading to maximizing its performance while minimizing cost, risks, resource consumption and negative environmental impact.
Facilitating learning by the visually impaired: development and usability evaluation of a specially designed ubiquitous library
Authors: Tu Yun-Fang , Hwang Gwo-Jen , Lai Chiu-Lin
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to develop a ubiquitous library for the visually impaired (ULVI) application (app) and to explore its usability by collecting feedback from visually impaired participants to analyse the problems they might encounter. Their suggestions for improving the app further are also reported.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of ten participants were recruited in the study. Ten tasks were assigned for the participants to complete using the ULVI app. The system usability scale was adopted to collect feedback on the app, and interviews were conducted to understand the participants’ usage behaviours and perceptions of the app.

Findings

The findings indicated that the participants provided positive evaluation of the usability of the app and addressed the functions that might need improvement. Above all, this app was regarded as having great potential. Suggestions and improvements are proposed based on the participants’ feedback.

Originality/value

In terms of the studies relevant to libraries and the visually impaired, few have evaluated the usability of the ULVI app from the perspectives of the visually impaired users. The ULVI app provides resources for the visually impaired and serves as the foundation for developing a more effective ULVI app.
Psychological capital and entrepreneurship: gender differences
Authors: Villanueva-Flores Mercedes , Diaz-Fernandez Mirta , Hernandez-Roque Dara , van Engen Marloes
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether the psychological capital of male and female university students explains the intention to undertake entrepreneurism. Following Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour, the aim was to study whether perceived behavioural control and subjective norms influence entrepreneurial intention and if subjective norms moderate established relationships, in both genders.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modelling and analysis of variance was applied to test the hypotheses amongst students at a Spanish university.

Findings

The results showed that gender differences in psychological capital, in perceived behavioural control and in subjective norms existed between the male and female population, which explain gender differences in entrepreneurial intention. Similarly, subjective norms acted as a moderator in the relationship between psychological capital, the perceived behavioural control and entrepreneurial intention, with the moderating impact being higher on the female population.

Practical implications

The results obtained in this paper indicate that developing perceived behavioural control and the psychological capital of university students in training programmes of male and female students helps to promote their entrepreneurial intention. Similarly, the results suggest that building a support network, for instance of family and groups of friends is key to fostering entrepreneurial intention, particularly for women.

Originality/value

Entrepreneurship is key to the successful employability of current and future generations in the labour market. This study examined key antecedents of student’s entrepreneurial intention and how these are gendered. For both men and women (investing in) psychological capital is important. Informal social support was shown to play a key role in women’s entrepreneurial intention.
Grey clustering of the variations in the back-to-front airplane boarding method considering COVID-19 flying restrictions
Authors: Delcea Camelia , Cotfas Liviu-Adrian , Milne R. John , Xie Naiming , Mierzwiak Rafał
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The airline industry has been significantly hit by the occurrence of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, facing one of its worst crises in history. In this context, the present paper analyses one of the well-known boarding methods used in practice by the airlines before and during the coronavirus outbreak, namely back-to-front and suggests which variations of this method to use when three passenger boarding groups are considered and a jet bridge connects the airport terminal with the airplane.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the importance accorded by the airlines to operational performance, health risks, and passengers' comfort, the variations in three passenger groups back-to-front boarding are divided into three clusters using the grey clustering approach offered by the grey systems theory.

Findings

Having the clusters based on the selected metrics and considering the social distance among the passengers, airlines can better understand how the variations in back-to-front perform in the new conditions imposed by the novel coronavirus and choose the boarding approach that better fits its policy and goals.

Originality/value

The paper combines the advantages offered by grey clustering and agent-based modelling for offering to determine which are the best configurations that offer a reduced boarding time, while accounting for reduced passengers' health risk, measured through three indicators: aisle risk, seat risk and type-3 seat interferences and for an increased comfort for the passengers manifested through a continuous walking flow while boarding.
A measurement framework of crowd intelligence
Authors: Feng Yiqiang , Qiu Leiju , Sun Baowen
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The originality of the crowd cyber system lies in the fact that it possesses the intelligence of multiple groups including intelligence of people, intelligence of objects and intelligence of machines. However, quantitative analysis of the level of intelligence is not sufficient, due to many limitations, such as the unclear definition of intelligence and the inconformity of human intelligence quotient (IQ) test and artificial intelligence assessment methods. This paper aims to propose a new crowd intelligence measurement framework from the harmony of adaption and practice to measure intelligence in crowd network.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on the ideas of traditional Confucianism, which sees intelligence from the dimensions of IQ and effectiveness. First, they clarify the related concepts of intelligence and give a new definition of crowd intelligence in the form of a set. Second, they propose four stages of the evolution of intelligence from low to high, and sort out the dilemma of intelligence measurement at the present stage. Third, they propose a framework for measuring crowd intelligence based on two dimensions.

Findings

The generalized IQ operator model is optimized, and a new IQ algorithm is proposed. Individuals with different IQs can have different relationships, such as cooperative, competitive, antagonistic and so on. The authors point out four representative forms of intelligence as well as its evolution stages.

Research limitations/implications

The authors, will use more rigorous mathematical symbols to represent the logical relationships between different individuals, and consider applying the measurement framework to a real-life situation to enrich the research on crowd intelligence in the further study.

Originality/value

Intelligence measurement is one of foundations of crowd science. This research lays the foundation for studying the interaction among human, machine and things from the perspective of crowd intelligence, which owns significant scientific value.
Factors influencing property developers’ minimal participation in student housing provision in Gaborone
Authors: Kampamba Johnson , Kachepa Simon , Seketeme Kefilwe Omphemetse
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Student housing (SH) is very critical in the learning process of students, as it can affect their academic performance. It has been noted that tertiary institutions in Botswana are failing to provide adequate accommodation to cater the growing student population. Despite the shortage of housing, private property developers are not keen on participating in SH provision. The purpose of this study is to therefore assess the factors influencing minimum participation of property developers in SH provision in Gaborone, Botswana.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this study was collected from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected from property developers in Gaborone through the use of a questionnaire. Secondary data on the other hand was collected from books, reports and journal articles. Data was analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences and Microsoft Excel.

Findings

The findings from the study revealed that the factors that affect property developers participation in SH provision are low income derived from SH, limitations in multi sectoral approach, poor site location, lack of partnerships between developers and universities, high maintenance and renovation costs and lack of policies and legislation regarding SH. The factors that highly had an impact on property developers are financial factors, followed by institutional factors, demographic factors, physical factors and, finally, human factors. A private–public partnerships model aimed at enhancing developers’ participation in SH provision was developed in the study.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size used has had a negative impact on the results, as no factors were identified as limiting property developers’ participation in SH.

Originality/value

This paper extends the knowledge on factors influencing property developers’ minimal participation in SH provision by coming up with a model that could enhance their participation in SH provision.
Emotional exhaustion as a mediator among workplace loneliness, work alienation and turnover intention
Authors: ÖZTÜRK ÇİFTCİ Didem
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of loneliness and alienation in the workplace on the intention of leaving employment and whether emotional exhaustion has a mediating role in this effect.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses generated within the framework of the study model were evaluated by using the data set obtained from 402 survey participants working at nine shopping malls in the Central and Eastern Black Sea regions of Turkey and statistical analysis programs. In this context, the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to determine the validity of the scale and the structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The study reveals that loneliness and alienation in the workplace have an effect on the intention of leaving employment and that this effect is fully mediated by emotional exhaustion. Whether this full mediating role determined by the SEM is meaningful or not was evaluated by Bootstrap analysis and the results revealed that the effect is meaningful.

Practical implications

Developing effective communication channels that will prevent the employee from feeling isolated at work and eliminating the pressure and inadequate physical working conditions created by unrealistic sales targets are recommended. In addition, it is thought that if employees are included in decision-making processes and have sufficient autonomy related to the job, work alienation can be prevented.

Originality/value

This research is important in terms of evaluating shopping centers, which are accepted as the symbol of consumption today, not only with their economic aspects but also with their employees. In this context, the research has revealed that shopping mall employees want to leave their jobs due to emotional exhaustion caused by loneliness and alienation at work.
The impact of financial inclusion on economic development: the mediating roles of gross savings, social empowerment and economic empowerment
Authors: Chakraborty Rajib , Abraham Rebecca
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the impact of financial inclusion on economic development.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 used World Bank Data to develop financial inclusion percentages of ownership of checking accounts, savings accounts, debit cards and loans for 179 countries among the poorest 40% of the population, from 2011–2017. Regressions established the financial inclusion, gross savings and GDP per capita growth linkage. Study 2 created and validated scales to measure social empowerment, economic empowerment and economic development, among inhabitants of Bangladesh villages. Structural equation modeling measured the mediation by social empowerment and economic empowerment of the financial inclusion and economic development linkage.

Findings

Total financial inclusion was significantly explained by gross savings, which was significantly explained by GDP per capita growth. Ownership of a checking account significantly increased gross savings, while ownership of a savings account significantly increased GDP per capita growth. Ownership of a checking account differentiated countries with the highest 5% of gross savings, while ownership of a debit card significantly differentiated countries with the GDP per capita growth. Social empowerment and economic empowerment significantly mediated the financial inclusion and economic development relationship.

Originality/value

The study is unique in examining financial inclusion from a multi country, macroeconomic perspective combined with measurement of its theoretical underpinnings through a primary data-based sample extracted from respondents in Bangladesh, a lower middle-income country in Southeast Asia.
“I am going to educate the industry”: how an advocate became a key competitive resource for the adaptive apparel market
Authors: McBee-Black Kerri , Ha-Brookshire Jung E.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The goal of this study was to explore the development of the first-of-its-kind mainstream adaptive apparel line for children through the collaboration of an adaptive apparel advocate and an apparel brand.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this goal, the study used the resource advantage (RA) and first-mover advantage theory to conduct a case study investigating the lived experiences of Mindy Scheier as she created the adaptive apparel movement and collaborated with Tommy Hilfiger® to launch the first-of-its-kind mainstream adaptive apparel line for children.

Findings

The result of the case study revealed two dominant themes: (1) “I am going to educate the entire industry” and (2) “You mean no mainstream brands have done this before?” Using RA theory and first-mover advantage theory, the themes illustrated the advocate's position as a key competitive resource, how she leveraged the key competitive resources with an apparel brand, and subsequently, how the brand, using the advocate as a key competitive resource, established a first-mover advantage in the adaptive apparel market to develop the first-of-its-kind mainstream adaptive apparel line for children in the marketplace.

Originality/value

This study demonstrated how RA theory could be applied to the partnership between an advocate and an apparel firm and how the key resources acquired and utilized by the advocate support a competitive advantage within the adaptive apparel marketplace.
Community health workers in rural Punjab, India: analyzing their role, expectations and challenges
Authors: Mahajan Niharika , Kaur Baljit
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to analyze the role of community health workers (CHWs) called accredited social health activists (ASHAs) in improving maternal health outcomes in the rural community of Punjab, India. The study also examined the expectations of these workers from the community and identified the problems faced by them in carrying out their roles.

Design/methodology/approach

Using multistage sampling, a total of 28 villages were selected from seven districts of Punjab, and from these selected villages, a total of 57 ASHAs working as the interface between the rural community and the public health system and 420 women who had delivered a baby were interviewed.

Findings

Desire to earn money was the most prominent reason for joining the community work program, but ASHAs felt overburdened and underpaid compared to their work commitments. Not only was the incentive paid to these workers was insufficient and irregular but they also suffered at the hands of medical staff at public hospitals.

Originality/value

While exploring the problems experienced by the CHWs, this study recommends opting for a mix of monetary and nonmonetary incentives for acknowledging the work of CHWs. The study is the first of its kind for the state of Punjab battling with a worsening maternal mortality rate (MMR).
Post-thermal properties of Portland cement concrete made with copper slag as fine aggregates
Authors: Suresh N. , M. Manjunatha
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of elevated temperature on mechanical and physical properties of concrete specimens obtained by substituting the river sand with copper slag (CS) at proportions of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The specimens were heated in an electric furnace up to 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 600 C and kept at these temperatures for 2 h duration. After the specimens were cooled in the furnace, mass loss, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), compressive strength, split tensile strength (STS), flexural strength (FS) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) values were determined. No spalling occurred in the specimens after subjected to elevated temperature. The surface cracks were observed only in specimens exposed to 600 C. The maximum reduction in compressive strength and STS at 600C is 50.3% and 36.39% for referral mix (NC), 18% and 16% for specimens with 100% CS (MCS4). The reduction in MOE of specimens is observed to be high as copper slag content increases with increasing temperature. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies are carried out to examine the changes in micro-structures of specimens after exposed to elevated temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

After casting of concrete specimens, it is cured for 28 days. After attainment of 28 days age, the concrete specimens is taken out from the curing tank and allowed to dry for 2 days to remove any moisture content in the specimens to prevent explosive spalling during the time of heating. The prepared concrete specimen is subjected to temperatures of 100°C, 200°C, 300°C, 400°C, 500°C and 600°C up to 2 h duration. The physical test, mechanical test and SEM studies are carried out after cooling of specimens to room temperature (RT). The quality of concrete specimens is measured by conducting UPV test after cooling to RT.

Findings

The post-thermal strength properties of concrete specimens with copper slag contents are higher than referral mix concrete. The reduction of MOE of concrete specimens is more with incremental in copper slag content with increase in temperatures. Furthermore, the quality of concrete specimens is ranging from “good to medium” up to 500C temperatures based on UPV test.

Originality/value

In this research work, the natural sand is fully replaced with copper slag materials in the concrete mixes. The post-thermal strength properties like residual compressive strength, residual STS, residual FS and residual MOE is higher than referral mix after subjected to elevated temperature conditions. Higher density and toughness properties of copper slag materials will contribute to concrete strength. The effect of elevated temperature is more on MOE of concrete specimens having higher copper slag contents when comparing to specimens compressive strength.
Measuring gambling activity in options market
Authors: Chen Bei , Gan Quan
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper investigates how the gambling measure captures market bubble events, and how it predicts stock return and option return.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a gambling activity measure by jointly considering open interest and moneyness of out-of-the-money (OTM) individual equity call options.

Findings

The new measure, CallMoney, captures excessive optimism during the dot-com bubble, the oil price bubble and the pre-GFC stock market bubble. CallMoney robustly and negatively predicts both OTM and at-the-money call option returns cross-sectionally. The option return predictability of CallMoney is stronger when stock price is further from its 52-weeks high, capital gains overhang is lower, and when information uncertainty of the underlying stock is higher. CallMoney also robustly and negatively predicts cross-sectional stock returns.

Originality/value

The gambling measure has the advantages of being economically intuitive, model-free, easy to measure. The measure performs more robustly than existing lottery measures with respect to option and stock return predictability and more reliably captures the overpricing of options and stocks. The work helps understanding the gambling related anomalies in equity option returns and stock returns.
Ecological correlates of the alpha and beta diversity of zooplankton hatchling communities in seasonal subtropical ponds
Authors: Freiry Raquel F. , Pires Mateus M. , Gouvea Andressa , Hoffman Pedro H. O. , Stenert Cristina , Maltchik Leonardo
Published: March 2021

Most zooplankton species inhabiting seasonal ponds produce dormant stages to overcome the dry seasons. Zooplankton specimens emerging from the sediment contribute to the ecological dynamics of these ecosystems, because they constitute important energy sources for higher trophic levels in aquatic food webs. In contrast to snapshot studies of the active communities, studying the ecological correlates of the distribution of the egg bank can help identify the potential drivers of zooplankton composition. We tested the association of local (habitat structure and water chemistry), climatic and spatial predictors with the alpha and beta diversity of zooplankton hatchling communities in subtropical seasonal ponds. Incubation experiments were conducted with sediment samples from 11 ponds distributed along an approximately 500‐km latitudinal gradient in southern Brazil. We assessed the patterns for the total community, Cladocera only and Rotifera only. The alpha diversity of the total community and Cladocera were primarily related to substrate heterogeneity. Annual rainfall and substrate heterogeneity jointly influenced the beta diversity of the total community. Annual rainfall solely influenced the beta diversity of Cladocera, while substrate heterogeneity influenced the overall beta diversity of Rotifera. Overall, the distinct relationships of the total hatchling community and Cladocera and Rotifera with the explanatory datasets suggest differing sensitivities of the zooplankton groups to impacts in habitat structure and climatic conditions in subtropical seasonal ponds.
Inferring species relationships among Camellia chrysanthoides and its closely related species for developing conservation strategies
Authors: Chen Hailing , Liu Shangli , Ye Quanqing , Lu Yongbin , Tang Shaoqing
Published: March 2021

Accurate species classification is important for developing conservation strategies for endangered species. Camellia chrysanthoides and its closely related species are currently threatened. However, the taxonomy of these species is complex and contentious. A total of 87 individuals from nine populations of C. chrysanthoides and its close relatives were collected and analyzed using two nuclear genes (PAL and waxy) and a chloroplast DNA fragment. Molecular and morphological evidence demonstrates that C. chrysanthoides and C. micrantha share floral traits and nuclear and chloroplast haplotypes, suggesting that they should be treated as a single species. Our nuclear results indicated that C. parvipetala is genetically close to C. chrysanthoides and C. micrantha. A barrier to gene flow between C. chrysanthoides and C. micrantha populations and the high number of private nuclear haplotypes in C. parvipetala suggest that C. chrysanthoides, C. micrantha and C. parvipetala should be recognized as three independent conservation units.
Culturally diverse board and corporate innovation
Authors: Tang Xiangxi , Shi Jing , Han Jianlei , Shu Ao , Xiao Fulong
Published: March 2021

We investigate the role of culturally diverse board of directors on firm outcomes in China. We examine whether the diverseness of the educational, professional and cultural backgrounds of board members influences firm innovation. We find that firms whose directors have international experience are more innovative. In addition, the positive cultural diversity effect is more pronounced for returnee directors with postgraduate and science‐related degrees, and longer international work experience. Further, the directors who gain international experience from the countries with higher standards of management practice, corporate governance and intellectual property rights protection have a higher impact on corporate innovative activities.
Encouraging and evaluating limit‐setting among on‐line gamblers: a naturalistic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Heirene Robert M. , Gainsbury Sally M.
Published: March 2021

Aims

We tested the effectiveness of three different messages designed to increase limit‐setting on gambling sites and sent these via e‐mail or in‐account notification to compare delivery modes. As a secondary aim, we examined the effects of limit‐setting on gambling behaviour.

Design

A pre‐registered, naturalistic randomized control trial using a 3 × 2 plus control design.

Setting

Four on‐line Australian sports and racing wagering websites.

Participants

A total of 31 989 wagering customers (reduced to 26,560 after eligibility screening) who had placed bets on at least 5 days in the past 30 [mean age = 41.4, standard deviation (SD) = 14.3; 79% male].

Interventions and comparators

Messages were sent via e‐mail or in‐account notification by on‐line gambling operators and were designed to either: (1) be informative, describing the availability and purpose of the tool (informative messages), (2) highlight the benefits other people receive from using the tool (social messages) or (3) promote the benefit individuals could receive from using the tool (personal messages). A control group who did not receive messages was monitored for comparison.

Measurements

Our primary outcome was the number of customers who set a deposit limit within 5 days of receiving messages and secondary outcomes included pre‐ and post‐message betting behaviour (e.g. average daily wager).

Findings

One hundred and sixty‐one (0.71%) customers sent messages set limits compared to three (0.08%) controls [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 8.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.99, 33.76)]. Social and personal messages were no more effective than informative messages (aOR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.65, 1.48; aOR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.60, 1.44) and in‐account messages were no more effective than e‐mails (aOR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.71, 1.49). Customers who set limits significantly decreased their average daily wager, the SD of daily wager, net loss and betting intensity compared with non‐limit‐setters.

Conclusions

Messages to on‐line gambling website customers are inexpensive, and may lead to small but impactful increases in setting deposit limits. Limit‐setting may be an effective strategy for reducing gambling expenditure and intensity.
Expert stakeholder perspectives on the acceptability of treatment‐as‐prevention in prison: a qualitative substudy of the ‘Surveillance and Treatment of Prisoners with Hepatitis C’ project (SToP‐C)
Authors: Rance Jake , Lafferty Lise , Treloar Carla ,   The SToP‐C Study Group
Published: March 2021

Background and aims

Mathematical modelling has demonstrated the theoretical feasibility of HCV treatment‐as‐prevention strategies in custodial settings, yet limited empirical data exists. The Australian ‘Surveillance and Treatment of Prisoners with Hepatitis C’ study is the world's first trial of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment‐as‐prevention in prison. This study aimed to analyse how expert stakeholders involved in the Australian HCV response assessed the acceptability of HCV treatment‐as‐prevention in prison using interview data from the SToP‐C qualitative substudy.

Design and setting

Qualitative analysis using semi‐structured interviews in Australia.

Participants

Nineteen key HCV experts.

Measurements

Drawing upon Sekhon's theoretical framework of acceptability, data were organized thematically under four component constructs of acceptability: affective attitude; ethicality; opportunity costs; and perceived effectiveness.

Findings

Most differences in participant assessments of acceptability were a matter of relative emphasis and prioritization rather than absolute polarity. Nonetheless, a small minority of participants was overtly critical of the approach. Arguing against the focus on treatment, they instead advocated for prevention‐as‐prevention, including the improvement and expansion of existing harm reduction measures.

Conclusions

Qualitative analysis of expert stakeholder assessments of the acceptability of hepatitis C virus treatment‐as‐prevention in Australian prisons found no opposition to the universal rollout of direct‐acting anti‐virals, but most voiced concern regarding the lack of effective primary prevention in Australian prisons.
Agricultural R&D investment intensity: A misleading conventional measure and a new intensity index
Authors: Nin‐Pratt Alejandro
Published: March 2021

The conventional wisdom that developing countries are significantly underinvesting in agricultural research and development (R&D) has been challenged by studies that found that the high rates of return in the literature result from data limitations and inadequate modeling choices. However, evidence of low research effort in developing countries as measured by the intensity ratio (IR)—the percentage of agricultural gross domestic product invested in agricultural R&D—has not been questioned. This article argues that the IR is an inadequate indicator of research effort and proposes an alternative index to measure R&D intensity. Using the proposed index, we find that the investment effort in developing countries is much higher than the one observed when the IR is used, that the contribution of low‐ and middle‐income (LMI) countries to growth in global R&D intensity was higher to that of high‐income (HI) countries in recent years, that the investment gap in LMI countries is close to 50% of R&D investment, and that the proposed development goal of a 1.0% value of the IR is beyond the possibilities of most Asian and African countries.
Haematological and serum biochemical reference intervals of free‐ranging Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos (Dendrolagus lumholtzi)
Authors: Shima AL , Berger L , Skerratt LF
Published: March 2021

Background

Reference intervals for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were developed for free‐ranging Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) using 35 samples from 12 female and 15 male free‐ranging animals. Captive tree‐kangaroos (n = 12) were also sampled for comparison. Differences were found between free‐ranging and captive animals in white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase. These differences may be attributed to diet, activity, capture methods or age group. Reference intervals generated may be used for both free‐ranging and captive Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos. This study provides a valuable tool for the assessment of health in rescued and captive tree‐kangaroos and will aid in investigations into population health and disease in free‐ranging Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos.

Objective

To develop reference intervals (RIs) for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters in Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos.

Methods

Haematological and serum biochemical RIs were determined using 35 samples from 27 clinically healthy Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos from the Atherton Tablelands region of Queensland examined between 2014 and 2019. Haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were measured from 16 samples from 12 captive animals for comparison.

Results

Reference intervals based on 35 samples from free‐ranging animals showed higher mean and standard deviation values for white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase than results for 16 samples from captive animals. Captive individuals showed higher mean values than free‐ranging individuals for albumin, protein, creatinine as well as Hb, MCV, MCH and MCHC.

Conclusion

The haematological and serum biochemistry RIs developed for Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos in this study will provide a valuable tool during clinical examination and investigations into disease and population health by veterinarians and researchers. The differences in parameters between free‐ranging and captive animals are consistent with differences in diet, age cohort, activity or capture methods. Reference intervals generated from free‐ranging animals should also be valid for captive Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos.
Injustice for the sake of public health: Freeing prisoners in Portugal during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cordeiro‐Rodrigues Luis
Published: March 2021

This case study analysis looks at Portuguese policy during the COVID‐19 pandemic whereby convicts were freed for the sake of public health. I defend this policy negatively by refuting the argument that suggested it involved various forms of injustice.
Identification of WP1066, an inhibitor of JAK2 and STAT3, as a KV1.3 potassium channel blocker
Authors: Li Min , Yu Haibo
Published: March 2021

Background and Purpose

KV1.3 potassium channels play a predominant role in regulating calcium signalling that is essential for the activation and proliferation of effector memory T (TEM) cells. This ion channel has been recognized as a promising therapeutic target against various autoimmune diseases.

Experimental Approach

In a high‐throughput screening programme, WP1066 was identified as a KV1.3 channel inhibitor. Using molecular biology and electrophysiological methods, the mechanism(s) underlying WP1066 blockade of Kv1.3 channels was investigated. Using TEM cell proliferation assay and mouse delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) model, the effects of WP1066 were examined.

Key Results

WP1066 blocked KV1.3 channels in a dose‐dependent manner with an IC50 of 3.2 μM and induced a hyperpolarizing shift of the steady‐state inactivation curve. This blockade was use‐dependent, as WP1066 interacted preferentially with channels in their open state, rather than the closed state or inactivated state. When the residues located in the S6 domain scaffolding the inner vestibule, were sequentially mutated, the potency of WP1066 was significantly impaired, especially by mutations A413C and I420C, indicating a higher affinity of interacting sites for WP1066. Moreover, WP1066 effectively suppressed mouse TEM cell proliferation in vitro and mouse DTH reaction in vivo.

Conclusions and Implications

The results presented here have identified WP1066 as a KV1.3 channel blocker with an open‐state‐dependent property, providing fundamental evidence for the application of WP1066 in further immunomodulatory studies targeting KV1.3 channels.
The role of deterministic succession during forest development within a southern African savanna
Authors: Jamison‐Daniels Samantha‐Leigh , Kissling W. Daniel , Botha Monique , Harris Mathew A. , Gordon Christopher E. , Greve Michelle
Published: March 2021

Woody encroachment can lead to a switch from open savannas to dense woodlands or forests. This has implications for both the composition of ecological communities and the provision of ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling and grazing capacity. The patterns and underlying drivers responsible for woody encroachment are not fully understood. Here, we investigate the underlying determinants of bush clump formation (a form of encroachment) in a South African savanna and explore whether bush clump succession is driven by deterministic (i.e., predictable changes in species composition) or stochastic (i.e., random) processes. Specifically, we test (1) whether the similarity in species composition of saplings and trees differs among small and large clumps, (2) which environmental factors are driving succession, and (3) whether forest specialization of tree and sapling species within bush clumps increases with the successional gradient. Similarity in species composition between saplings in small clumps and trees in large clumps was higher than similarity between trees in small clumps and trees in large clumps. Furthermore, temperature, soil moisture, relative humidity, and light intensity were related to changes in species composition along the successional gradient. As expected, forest specialization of trees increased with increasing clump area indicating that late‐successional bush clumps have more forest‐type species. The directional changes of species found along the successional gradient suggest a deterministic process of succession driven by changes in local environmental conditions during clump formation.
Necrosectomy with an ultra‐slim endoscope for gangrenous cholecystitis refractory to endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage
Authors: Matsubara Saburo , Oka Masashi , Nagoshi Sumiko
Published: March 2021

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