bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CDR2 is a dynein adaptor recruited by kinectin to regulate ER sheet organization
Authors: Teixeira Vanessa , Singh Kashish , Gama José B. , Celestino Ricardo , Carvalho Ana Xavier , Pereira Paulo , Abreu Carla M.C. , Dantas Tiago J. , Carter Andrew P. , Gassmann Reto
Published: November 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) relies on the microtubule cytoskeleton for distribution and re-modelling of its extended membrane network, but how microtubule-based motors contribute to ER organization remains unclear. Using biochemical and cell-based assays, we identify cerebellar degeneration-related protein 2 (CDR2) and its paralog CDR2-like (CDR2L), onconeural antigens with poorly understood functions, as ER adaptors for cytoplasmic dynein-1 (dynein). We demonstrate that CDR2 is recruited by the integral ER membrane protein kinectin (KTN1) and that double knockout of CDR2 and CDR2L enhances KTN1-dependent ER sheet stacking, reversal of which by exogenous CDR2 requires its dynein-binding CC1 box motif. Exogenous CDR2 expression additionally promotes CC1 box-dependent clustering of ER sheets near centrosomes. CDR2 competes with the eEF1Bβ subunit of translation elongation factor 1 for binding to KTN1, and eEF1Bβ knockdown increases endogenous CDR2 levels on ER sheets, inducing their centrosome-proximal clustering. Our study describes a novel molecular pathway that implicates dynein in ER sheet organization and may be involved in the pathogenesis of paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration.
Female Moths Incorporate Plant Acoustic Emissions into Their Oviposition Decision-Making Process
Authors: Seltzer Rya , Zer Eshel Guy , Yinon Omer , Afani Ahmed , Eitan Ofri , Matveev Sabina , Levedev Galina , Davidovitz Michael , Ben Tov Tal , Sharabi Gayl , Shapira Yuval , Shvil Neta , Atallah Ireen , Hadad Sahar , Ment Dana , Hadany Lilach , Yovel Yossi
Published: November 2024

Insects rely on plants’ visual, chemical, tactile, and electrical cues when making various decisions. Recently it has been found that plants emit ultrasonic sounds, which are in the hearing range of many moths, especially under dehydration stress. In this study, we sought to determine whether insects also rely on plant acoustic signals when making decisions. We investigated whether female moths rely on ultrasonic clicks which are typically produced by dehydrated plants when deciding where to oviposit. In the absence of an actual plant, the moths indeed preferred to lay their eggs in proximity to acoustic signals which represent dehydrating plants. Tracking the moths’ behavior prior to the decision showed that they examined both sides of the arena and gradually spent more time on the acoustic-playback side. Interestingly, when actual plants were added to the arena, the oviposition preference was reversed and the moths preferred silent plants, which is in accordance with their a-priori preference for hydrated plants. Deafening the moths eliminated their preference, confirming that the choice was based on hearing. Moreover, male moth signals did not affect female oviposition decision, suggesting that the response was specific to plant sound emissions. We reveal evidence for a first acoustic interaction between moths and plants, but as plants emit various sounds, our findings hint to the existence of more currently unknown insect-plant acoustic interactions.
Bidirectional control of neurovascular coupling by cortical somatostatin interneurons
Authors: Mohamed Boubacar , O’Reilly Julie , Picaud Sandrine , Le Gac Benjamin , Belzic Esther , Castro Liliana R V , Soula Hédi , Dusart Isabelle , Li Dongdong , Cauli Bruno
Published: November 2024

Neurovascular coupling, linking neuronal activity to cerebral blood flow, is altered early in neurological disorders and underlies functional brain imaging. This process involves numerous cellular players. Among them inhibitory interneurons receive increasing attention, but how they control blood flow remains elusive. This study elucidates the mechanisms by which somatostatin interneurons bidirectionally control neurovascular coupling. Patch clamp recordings in, ex vivo, cortical slices from mice expressing channelrhodopsin-2 in somatostatin interneurons, revealed that these neurons are supralinearly activated at low-frequencies (< 5 Hz) and efficiently photostimulated at frequencies up to 20 Hz. Ex vivo vascular imaging showed that low-frequency (2 Hz) photostimulation triggered vasodilation whereas high-frequency (20 Hz) photostimulation induced vasoconstriction. Histochemistry revealed that subpopulations of cortical somatostatin interneurons expressed the neuronal nitric oxide synthase, and/or neuropeptide Y to a greater extent. Consistently, pharmacological investigations showed that vasodilation induced by low-frequency photostimulation involves nitric oxide release and activation of soluble guanylate cyclase. In contrast, the vasoconstriction induced at high-frequency photostimulation involves neuropeptide Y release and activation of the Y1 vascular receptor. These findings provide valuable insights into neurovascular coupling and help to understand the cellular mechanism underlying the functional brain imaging signals.
AI-powered precision: breast carcinoma diagnosis through digital proliferation index (Ki-67) assessment in pathological anatomy
Authors: Aniq Elmehdi , Chakraoui Mohamed , Mouhni Naoual
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The primary objective of the study is to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of assessing the proliferation index in cancer cells, specifically focusing on the role of Ki-67. The purpose is to address the limitations of traditional visual assessments conducted by pathologists by integrating AI technologies, particularly deep learning. By accurately computing the percentage of Ki-67-labeled cells, the research aims to streamline the diagnostic process, reduce subjectivity and contribute to the advancement of diagnostic precision in pathological anatomy.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs a methodological approach that integrates Ki-67, a non-histone nuclear protein, as a vital biomarker for assessing the proliferative status of cancer cells. Given the challenges associated with traditional visual assessments by pathologists, including inter- and intra-observer variability and time-consuming efforts, the study adopts a novel methodology leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. Deep learning is applied to precisely calculate the percentage of Ki-67-labeled cells. The process involves pathologists delineating the tumor area at x40 magnification, enabling the segmentation of various cell types (positive, negative and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes). The subsequent percentage calculation enhances efficiency and minimizes subjectivity in the diagnostic process.

Findings

Despite inherent errors, the research findings indicate that the model surpasses existing benchmarks, showcasing superior accuracy in terms of average error measurement. The comparison with diverse datasets and benchmarking against pathologists’ diagnoses contributes empirical evidence to support the effectiveness of the AI-based model in accurately computing the percentage of Ki-67-labeled cells. These findings signify a noteworthy advancement in diagnostic methodologies and reinforce the potential of AI technologies in improving the precision of cancer diagnostics within the realm of pathological anatomy.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the field by introducing an innovative approach that combines Ki-67 as a biomarker and AI technologies for improved diagnostic precision. The originality lies in the utilization of deep learning to calculate the percentage of labeled cells, mitigating the challenges associated with manual assessments. The validation of the model against diverse datasets and benchmarking against pathologists’ diagnoses demonstrates its superior accuracy, highlighting the value of integrating AI in pathological anatomy for enhanced diagnostic outcomes. The study represents a significant stride in original research, offering novel insights and methodologies in the pursuit of more precise cancer diagnostics.
Creative industries’ business strategies during crises: insights from incubated small business startups
Authors: Games Donard , Albatati Bader , Sari Dessy
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the strategies adopted by incubated small business startups in creative industries during the COVID-19 pandemic. To conduct the analysis, the conceptualization of Miles and Snow’s strategic typology was used. The findings of this study could help small business startups deal strategically with future crises.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative approach, and data were obtained through interviews with 15 fashion-related incubated startup founders in Indonesia.

Findings

The results of this study showed that business strategies implemented by most owners were centered on calculated risk-taking. The main choices comprised the “wait and see” and “seeking new opportunities” approaches. Regarding foresight capabilities of participants of this study, there are some interesting findings that may capture the essence of their capabilities in dealing with future crises.

Research limitations/implications

The findings cannot be generalized across all creative industries but offer additional perspectives possibly unnoticed by stakeholders. In this regard, the findings could help startups in creative industries take different strategies in specific contexts.

Originality/value

Small business startups in creative industries are expected to provide different responses to ensure survival because of their chosen business strategies. However, limited information is available regarding how these business entities adapt to a new normal during pandemic crises.
Beyond the hashtags: social media usage and cryptocurrency investment
Authors: Kim Kyoung Tae , Fan Lu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Cryptocurrencies have gained popularity among investors despite their high risk and volatility. Social media wields substantial influence over investors' attitudes, judgments and decisions related to investment. This study aims to investigate the associations between social media usage and cryptocurrency investment behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing the main dataset of the 2021 National Financial Capability Study and its supplementary Investor Survey, this study analyzed social media usage in general. Additionally, it separately examined 11 different social media platforms as potential sources of information for investments. Logistic regressions were performed to explore the relationship between social media, previous experiences and future considerations in investing in cryptocurrencies. Robustness checks were conducted with additional analyses.

Findings

Investors who used social media for investment information were more likely to invest in cryptocurrencies and consider investing in cryptocurrencies in the future. The likelihood increased with the number of social media platforms used. Different social media platforms exhibited distinct associations with cryptocurrency investment experiences and future considerations.

Originality/value

This study is one of the initial attempts to examine the role of social media platforms in cryptocurrency investment. The findings offer unique and important theoretical and practical insights for policymakers, researchers and practitioners, which can benefit consumer well-being.
Gender and social entrepreneurship in turbulent waters: developing a gender-aware conceptual framework
Authors: de Magdalene Persephone , Green Kai Roland
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper identifies and maps themes and critiques emerging from feminist-informed and gender-focused mainstream entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship (SE) literature. We aim to develop a robust, theoretically informed gender-aware framework for future SE research.

Design/methodology/approach

A five-stage literature review process was undertaken to identify the common themes, key knowledge gaps and areas of contention highlighted by feminist critiques of mainstream entrepreneurship and what we refer to here as the “critical SE literature”. We draw on a widely used framework of epistemological approaches to discuss the emergent themes, specifically utilising three dominant epistemologies previously found to map onto entrepreneurship policy, those being: “gender as variable”, feminist standpoint and feminist poststructuralist positions.

Findings

We find feminist perspectives on SE particularly distinctive for their high reliance on relational and embedded accounts of the economy, more attentive to collectivist themes like “belongingness” in the performance of gender and identity, and maintaining a challenge to neoliberal and postfeminist norms. Anchoring each perspective in their respective epistemologies, we demonstrate their lineage in critiques of mainstream entrepreneurship and critical (non-feminist) SE. However, divergences from these lineages lead us to identify diversely contextualised and value-adding feminist accounts of SE that add richness and nuance to mainstream entrepreneurship theorising.

Research limitations/implications

The relative “youth” of the gender-focused and feminist-informed SE literature, alongside the theoretical relevance of the feminist critique of mainstream entrepreneurship and critical social entrepreneurship literature, lead us to draw on the strengths of a more interpretivist paradigm in our research. This amplifies our ability to support the revelation of conceptual connections and relationships between emergent themes, theories, epistemologies and approaches drawn from multidisciplinary sources and to thereby enhance the reach, and associated value, of our research findings.

Originality/value

This review responds to calls for a gender-aware framework for social entrepreneurship research by (1) developing a set of original emergent themes, (2) tracing their intellectual lineage in associated research fields and (3) using them to deepen the connection between feminist epistemologies and entrepreneurship concepts.
Environmental concerns and their impact on inbound tourism revenue: does the growth rate of the nation’s matter?
Authors: Rastogi Shailesh , Kanoujiya Jagjeevan , Singh Kuldeep
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Environmental concerns are gaining traction with every passing day. Moreover, post Covid 19, similar to many sectors, the tourism sector is also trying to revive itself. Theoretically, the environment and tourism complement each other. However, empirical vetting is not adequate. This study is motivated to determine how the environment impacts tourism. In addition, the moderating influence of the growth rate of the nations on the impact of the nations on tourism is also investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

We have gathered clear and balanced panel data on tourism and the environment for 106 nations for 10 years. The difficulty in measuring environment status is managed by estimating environment efficiency using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA).

Findings

Surprisingly, we find a significant impact of environmental efficiency on inbound tourism across the nations used in the study. Such findings are rarely observed in the earlier studies as very less studies look for the association of environmental efficiency with tourism. However, the findings are supportive of the principles of the Faro convention and ICOMOS (“International Council on Monuments and Sites”) charter to promote environmental quality for tourism attraction. The current research findings can change the future course of action regarding the environment for tourism. The findings of the study establish financial materiality for the tourism sector. These findings give a boost to the theory of sustainable tourism.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s inconsistent outcome (as the literature finds significant association) regarding the insignificant influence of GDP growth rate is a limitation of the study. The insignificant association needs to be further investigated. This limitation can be a future scope on the topic.

Originality/value

The authors do not find many studies on the environment’s impact on inbound tourism. In addition, a few studies on the topic, which exist provide contradictory outcomes. Above all, the literature does not observe the moderation of the GDP growth rate on the environment’s impact on inbound tourism. This lack of studies in literature, to the best of our knowledge, is the unique contribution of the current study.
The meaning and use of weapons in an English remand prison
Authors: Pieri Beki , Brennan Iain
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Weapon use is as risky in prison as it is in the community, but the type, use and meaning of weapons differ between these settings. Consequently, knowledge about community-based weapon violence may not generalise to prison contexts. The purpose of this study is to understand the meaning and use of weapons in a prison setting.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a framework for understanding weapon selection derived from a community setting, six prisoners in a remand setting in England who had a history of weapon possession and use in prison discussed their selection and use of weapons in prison.

Findings

Respondents described a hyperviolent milieu for some in which access to weapons was essential and wherein the official consequences of weapon carrying were outweighed by the potential costs of victimisation. Weapons served a variety of purposes for prisoners. At the individual level, they reduced the uncertainty of a hyperviolent environment, and they were used to construct and manage a violent identity as an aggressive precaution against victimisation.

Originality/value

This study develops the literature on weapon decision-making, extending it into a novel setting and addresses a significant gap in the prison research literature about the meaning and utility of weapons in a custodial setting. The use of a community-derived framework for understanding weapon carrying translated well into a prison environment and offers support for the synthesis of community and prison models of violence but distinctive features of the prison environment, such as how weapons are acquired, limits the fit of the model to a prison setting.
Exploring the relationship between criminal narrative experience (CNE) and criminal thinking, among sexual offenders
Authors: DeBlasio Shannon , Mojtahedi Dara
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The criminal narrative experience (CNE) framework posits that criminals’ personal experiences of offending can be differentiated into distinct narrative themes. This study aims to examine whether CNE themes of sexual offenders (SO) was related to particular cognitive distortions (criminal thinking). Additionally, given previously identified psychological differences between child SO and SO that target adults, the study also compared CNE and criminal thinking styles between these SO groups.

Design/methodology/approach

Twenty-six adult male offenders convicted for sexual crimes completed a survey composed of the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (Version 4) and a Criminal Narrative Experience Questionnaire which identified two narrative themes of sexual offending (The Intrepid Professional-Adventurer, IPA; and The Dejected Revenger Victim, DRV).

Findings

Analyses failed to identify significant relationships between CNE themes and most of the criminal thinking styles. However, offenders reporting the DRV narrative displayed greater fears about the prospect of changing. Additionally, child SO displayed the IPA narrative more than SO that targeted adults.

Practical implications

The CNE framework can assist practitioners who are working towards a goal of desistance, as the experience of crime from the perspective of the offender is understood through their narrative roles and emotional experience. Identifying an individual’s strongest CNE theme could aid practitioners in identifying and planning interventions which challenge the distorted thinking.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine the relationship between CNE and cognitive distortions that enable (re)offending.
From challenges to competencies: informal female entrepreneurship in emerging economies
Authors: Shet Sateesh V. , Raut Gaurav , Shet Pratima , Argade Padmaja , Piekara Agnieszka
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Informal female entrepreneurs in emerging economies operate in challenging business environments. This research examines the competencies of informal female entrepreneurs (IFEs) to explore how they persist because and despite the unique set of challenges they face.

Design/methodology/approach

We undertake a qualitative study focusing on IFE in the Indian context. Using the abilities–motivation–opportunity (AMO) framework as a theoretical lens, we interviewed 14 IFEs to gain insights into their entrepreneurial challenges and understand how they address the challenges.

Findings

The results demonstrate that IFEs are prone to various challenges around the individual level, business challenges on an operating and functional level and other challenges rooted in their business environment. Further, the study sheds light on the competencies of IFEs on three fronts, namely, ability-enhancing competencies, including – technical skills, problem solving, communication and adaptability; motivation-enhancing competencies, including – self-motivation, resilience and optimism and lastly, opportunity-enhancing competencies, including – local-centric approach, networking and resourcefulness.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the nuanced settings of informal female entrepreneurship in an emerging economy context. By highlighting the challenges and competency interplay, our study opens novel avenues for the interrelationships to be studied in further detail.

Originality/value

Our study provides close insight into the everyday challenges of IFEs operating in informal economies. Their competencies and perseverance-related attributes contribute to the mainstream entrepreneurship literature, as these entrepreneurs exhibit unique competencies that allow them to thrive in challenging contextual settings. Their willingness to learn new skills, opportunity recognition, motivation and adaptability skills contribute to a better understanding of the phenomenon of informal female entrepreneurship.
Connecting individual-level creativity to strategic management processes
Authors: Kim Cheong , Costello Francis Joseph , Lee Jungwoo , Lee Kun Chang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study examines how structured procedures and psychological safety can enhance six sigma processes’ effectiveness and foster individual creativity within an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a novel methodological approach, combining structural equation modeling (SEM) and multi-value qualitative comparative analysis (mvQCA).This combination gave us a unique lens through which to view the complex connections between the constructs that were the subject of the investigation.

Findings

The results substantiate that a well-structured six sigma approach, paired with a psychologically safe environment, fosters knowledge exploration and exploitation as well as triggering conducive learning behaviors. These elements, in turn, augment individual creativity, which is found to be instrumental in boosting six sigma performance.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to combine mvQCA and SEM to investigate the complex interplay between structured methods, psychological safety and individual creativity in enhancing six sigma performance. This research highlights the importance of fostering creativity in strategic management processes and the unrealized potential of combining these methods.
Sustainable practices: organisational citizenship behaviour and psychological contract fulfilment
Authors: Chadha Aman , Gupta Akriti , Tewari Vijayshri , Dwivedi Yogesh K.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Sustainable practices are the modern-day necessities for organisations as the world is becoming highly dynamic. The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of sustainable training and creativity practices (STP and SCP) on organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB-individual and OCB-organisation) via the mediating role of psychological contract fulfilment (PCF).

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 326 white-collar Indian service industry employees was collected. The data are analysed using structural equation modelling and random forest regression supervised learning (RFRSL).

Findings

The findings indicate that sustainable training practices (STP) had an indirect impact on organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB-I, OCB-O) via the mediating effect of transactional (T-PCF) and relational psychological contract fulfilment (R-PCF). In terms of sustainable creative practices (SCP), the impact on OCB-I was indirect due to T-PCF. In addition, R-PCF acts as a mediator between SCP and OCB-O. In the latter portion of the analysis, the RFRSL approach created a prediction model for T-PCF, R-PCF, OCB-I and OCB-O, with demographic characteristics such as industry experience, gender, age, etc. playing a constructive role.

Originality/value

The study conducts a combination of both traditional and newer technology (machine learning), resulting in highlighting the uniqueness of the relationship between variables and the role of demographic variables.
Customizing a mass appraisal model for residential property tax assessment: a hedonic regression approach in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebru Melkam Ayalew , Amsalu Tadesse , Nega Worku
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to estimate the house rental values for the purpose of customizing mass appraisals in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia. It seeks to identify the critical factors affecting the rental values of residential properties and customize a mass appraisal model for such properties. The study focuses on identifying attributes that significantly affect house rental values.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopted a survey research design, utilizing a survey questionnaire, expert group discussion and document analysis. The data were analyzed using thematic, descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, including correlation and hedonic regression analysis.

Findings

Among the variables included in the model, the number of rooms, availability of schools, land value grading, type of nearest road, housing typology, built-up area, plot area, walling material, traveling cost and fencing materials were the most significant factors for predicting the annual rental value of residential properties in the city.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study will provide valuable insights to tax assessors, property owners and local government authorities, including municipalities, concerning the key determinants of the rental values of residential properties. Besides, these findings will serve as a useful tool for valuers and researchers in the field of property value modeling.

Originality/value

This study represents the first attempt to develop a framework for mass appraisal of residential properties using annual rental values in the Ethiopian context.
Reply to: Mechanisms by which growth and succession limit the impact of fire in a south‐western Australian forested ecosystem—A comment on Zylstra et al.'s model
Authors: Zylstra Philip , Wardell‐Johnson Grant
Published: November 2024

Empirical evidence in scientific literature shows that forest flammability in south‐western Australia declines as forests recover from disturbance, indicating that current policies mandating disturbance may be counterproductive. Zylstra et al. (2023) used mechanistic modelling to explain this trend in Red Tingle (Eucalyptus jacksonii) forest in south‐western Australia. McCaw. (2024) have questioned the validity of the modelling, advancing hypothetical arguments as to why one of the inputs (‘suspended litter’) is incorrect and re‐asserting the need for the current policy.

The primary argument by McCaw. (2024) depends upon the redefinition of a component of surface litter into suspended litter. The published definition of near‐surface fuel defines necromass as ‘suspended’ fuel only if it is suspended in living plants or collapsed shrubs. McCaw. (2024) removed this requirement, so that a component of surface fuel was incorrectly measured as ‘suspended’ fuel long after the plants that might suspend it had self‐thinned from the landscape.

This physically impossible assertion was supported by an empirical study led by an architect of the policy and utilising the same redefinition of suspended litter, also reporting physically impossible findings as a result.

Given the well‐documented decline in wildfire likelihood in long‐unburnt forest, the claim by McCaw. (2024) that suspended litter does not decline suggests at best that such litter plays a lesser role than previously believed. The approaches used by McCaw. (2024) to defend Government policy should be understood in context of growing international concerns around scientific suppression used in defence of Government policy.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Mowing and traditional grazing as a conservation strategy: Fine‐spatial scale impacts on the invasion of false indigo bush (Amorpha fruticosa L.) in marsh meadows
Authors: Nagy Krisztina Napsugár , Bakacsy László
Published: November 2024

This study examined the effects of conservation management strategies, including traditional grazing, on marsh vegetation invaded by false indigo bush (Amorpha fruticosa L.) Fine‐scale methods were employed to analyze vegetation in stands subjected to combined treatments (mowing and grazing) as well as in untreated invaded stands. Vegetation composition and diversity were evaluated using four key metrics: compositional diversity (CD), local distinctiveness (LD), association (AS), and realized species combinations (NRC). Results revealed that the combined treatment led to significantly increased CD (5.366 ± 0.394) and LD (6.41 ± 0.668), despite the presence of the invasive species. Conversely, untreated invaded vegetation exhibited lower CD (3.756 ± 0.755) and LD (4.079 ± 0.93). Additionally, AS and NRC values were higher in treated stands, although the differences were not statistically significant. Notably, the characteristic areas of all functions did not differ significantly between treated and untreated stands. These findings suggest that combining management strategies, such as mowing and traditional grazing, effectively limits A. fruticosa invasion and supports marsh ecosystem diversity by promoting the coexistence of native species. Continuous management, particularly grazing, is crucial, as cessation of these practices may lead to rapid reinvasion by the invasive species and a subsequent loss of native biodiversity. Overall, this study highlights the importance of proactive management strategies in combating invasive species and conserving marshland biodiversity.
Nostalgic deprivation and populism: Evidence from 19 European countries
Authors: FERWERDA JEREMY , GEST JUSTIN , RENY TYLER
Published: November 2024

Populist parties have been increasingly successful in European politics over the last decade. Although research suggests that nostalgic deprivation – a perceived loss of economic, political or social status — is linked to support for populist parties, the generalizability of this argument across voters and national contexts remains unclear. In this research note, we leverage original representative surveys across 19 European countries to demonstrate that perceptions of declining status are a consistent predictor of populist support. Decomposing nostalgic deprivation into different dimensions, we find that while social, economic and power deprivation have different antecedents, each predicts populist attitudes and voting behaviour. Moreover, we find that nostalgic deprivation predicts support for populist platforms among both left‐wing and right‐wing respondents, as well as across Eastern and Western Europe.  While the antecedents differ across contexts, these findings confirm that perceptions of downward mobility are associated with the rise of populism in Europe.
Chasing the authoritarian spectre: Detecting authoritarian discourse with large language models
Authors: MOCHTAK MICHAL
Published: November 2024

The paper introduces a deep‐learning model fine‐tuned for detecting authoritarian discourse in political speeches. Set up as a regression problem with weak supervision logic, the model is trained for the task of classification of segments of text for being/not being associated with authoritarian discourse. Rather than trying to define what an authoritarian discourse is, the model builds on the assumption that authoritarian leaders inherently define it. In other words, authoritarian leaders talk like authoritarians. When combined with the discourse defined by democratic leaders, the model learns the instances that are more often associated with authoritarians on the one hand and democrats on the other. The paper discusses several evaluation tests using the model and advocates for its usefulness in a broad range of research problems. It presents a new methodology for studying latent political concepts and positions as an alternative to more traditional research strategies.
Do Commercial Ties Influence ESG Ratings? Evidence from Moody's and S&P
Authors: LI XUANBO , LOU YUN , ZHANG LIANDONG
Published: November 2024

We provide the first evidence that conflicts of interest arising from commercial ties lead to bias in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings. Using the acquisitions of Vigeo Eiris and RobecoSAM by Moody's and S&P as shocks to the commercial ties between ESG rating agencies and their rated firms, we show that, after their acquisitions by the credit rating agencies (CRAs), ESG rating agencies issue higher ratings to existing paying clients of the CRAs. This effect is greater for firms that have more intensive business relationships with the CRAs, but weaker for firms with more transparent ESG disclosures or higher long‐term institutional ownership. The upwardly biased ESG ratings help client firms issue more green bonds and enable the CRAs to maintain credit rating business. Finally, the upwardly biased ESG ratings are less informative of future ESG news. Overall, the business incentives of rating providers appear to engender ESG rating bias.
Association of hypoalbuminemia with hospitalization and mortality in hemodialysis patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Zheng Peilan , Jiang Hanwen , Lu Hailing , Zhuang Yongze
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Hypoalbuminemia is associated with poor nutritional status and inflammatory response in infectious diseases. It is commonly observed in COVID‐19 patients. The aim of this study is to assess the association of serum albumin with hospitalization and mortality in dialysis patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

We retrospectively collected 250 dialysis patients, with and without COVID‐19. Demographic characteristics, clinical symptoms, and laboratory tests on admission or the confirmation of COVID‐19 were collected. Univariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate the association of various factors with hospitalization and death in these patients.

Results

A total of 250 patients were included between December 1, 2022, and February 1, 2023, in our dialysis center. Among them, 218 were dialysis patients with COVID‐19, and 32 were without COVID‐19. Ten patients died due to COVID‐19, and 8 patients had clinical data. In dialysis patients with COVID‐19, a significant difference in serum albumin levels was observed between outpatients (37.28 ± 4.01 g/L) and hospitalized patients (33.42 ± 3.82 g/L), as well as between survivors (37.12 ± 4.07 g/L) and non‐survivors (31.92 ± 2.52 g/L). Univariate logistic regression showed that the reduced albumin levels were associated with an increased risk of hospitalization and mortality in dialysis patients with COVID‐19.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that reduced serum albumin is associated with an increased risk of hospitalization and mortality in dialysis patients with COVID‐19. Low serum albumin levels suggest a poor prognosis and nutritional support may improve clinical outcomes.
Of deviance and patriarchy: Mechanisms of gender discrimination in public‐sector corruption
Authors: Zaloznaya Marina , Glanville Jennifer L. , Haylett Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Although men are overrepresented among the perpetrators of high‐profile, white‐collar crime, examinations of public‐sector corruption typically reveal little‐to‐no gender differences in participation. Drawing from Steffensmeier's theory of gender inequality in the criminal underworld and Tomaskovic‐Devey and Avent‐Holt's relational theory of inequality, we argue that this apparent equality conceals systematically different patterns of engagement. We hypothesize that bureaucrats and other facilitators are more willing to collaborate with men than with women. Because public‐sector corruption markets are not male dominated, we argue that “gatekeepers” of both genders systematically exclude women from lucrative illegal collaborations. We further hypothesize that patterns of gender inequality are more pronounced in riskier and more profitable public‐sector corruption. We test these hypotheses with data from an original nationally representative survey conducted in Russia in 2018 using models that incorporate controls for explanations that locate gender differences in crime engagement in offender attributes. Our results demonstrate that gender differences in public‐sector corruption are a function of coordination among multiple actors. These relational dynamics advantage Russian men over women in that they are more likely to use less costly types of remuneration and to engage in high‐stakes exchanges with bigger material yields.
Petrogenesis of the Hercynian Granite in the Shuangjianzishan Super‐large Ag Polymetallic Deposit, Inner Mongolia and its Metallogenic Significance: Evidence from Geochronology and Petrogeochemistry
Authors: LIU Yu , JIANG Biao , WU Liwen , ZUO Yushan , LIU Zhao , LIU Haitao
Published: November 2024

The Shuangjianzishan deposit is a typical magmatic‐hydrothermal deposit located in the southern Great Xing'an Range. Recent investigations have identified significant copper and tin mineralization at depth within the Shuangjianzishan deposit; however, the coupling relationship between magmatic emplacement and mineralization processes remains debated. This study presents whole‐rock geochemistry, zircon LA‐ICP‐MS U‐Pb dating, and zircon Hf isotope analyses of granite from the northern Shuangjianzishan deposit. The analysis results indicate the granite crystallized between 252.3 and 257.9 Ma, corresponding to Late Permian magmatic activity. The granite displays ɛHf(t) = 5.95‐14.87, and tDM2 = 333–900 Ma. Geochemically, the granite is rich in Si and Al, with high K, classified as a calc‐alkaline, weakly peraluminous rock. LREEs are enriched, while HREEs are depleted, and a slight negative Eu anomaly, all of which are consistent with A‐type granite characteristics. The Hercynian granite in the Shuangjianzishan deposit formed during the latter or post‐collisional stages of the collision orogeny following the closure of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean in the late Paleozoic era. The material source indicates a mixed origin, involving both crust and mantle contributions. The granite is also enriched in Cu, Pb, and Zn, suggesting its potential role as an ore‐forming material source for the Shuangjianzishan deposit. This study proposes a potential link between Hercynian magmatism and mineralization at the Shuangjianzishan deposit for the first time, suggesting that multistage metallogenesis may be a response to successive magmatic events from Hercynian to Yanshanian periods in the mining area.
Facilitators to implementing preventive health interventions for adolescents in the emergency department: A multicenter qualitative analysis
Authors: Rutland Emily , Bugaighis Mona , Cruz Andrea T. , Goyal Monika K. , Mistry Rakesh D. , Reed Jennifer L. , Santelli John S. , Dayan Peter S. , Chernick Lauren S.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Adolescents frequently use the emergency department (ED) to meet their health care needs, and many use the ED as their primary source of care. The ED is therefore well situated to provide preventive health care to large numbers of adolescents. The objective of this multicenter qualitative analysis was to identify factors that influence the implementation of preventive health care interventions for adolescent patients in the ED.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews with ED health care providers (HCPs) from five academic pediatric EDs in distinct geographic regions. We developed an interview guide to explore HCP attitudes and beliefs related to implementing preventive health interventions in the ED. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by three investigators. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used as a guide to code and analyze interview data. We collaboratively generated themes that represent factors that are perceived to facilitate the implementation of preventive health interventions for adolescent patients in the ED setting.

Results

We conducted 38 interviews (18 pediatric emergency medicine attendings/fellows, 11 registered nurses, five nurse practitioners, or and four physician assistants). We generated 10 themes across the five CFIR domains: innovation characteristics (designing interventions to promote adolescent engagement), inner setting (integrating interventions into ED workflow and scope, minimizing provider burden), outer setting (involving the community, aligning with departmental and institutional missions), individuals (identifying champions), and implementation process (involving key stakeholders early, having patience, and targeting all patients to reduce stigma).

Conclusions

Factors facilitating implementation of preventive health interventions for adolescent patients in the ED encompassed multiple CFIR domains, elucidating how the delivery of preventive health interventions for this patient population in the ED requires considering numerous factors comprehensively. These data suggest methods to enhance and facilitate implementation of preventive health interventions for adolescents in the ED.
Enlarged choroid plexus related to atrophy of hippocampal subfield volumes and glymphatic dysfunction in benzodiazepine use disorder
Authors: Zhou Yang , Yi Meizhi , Li Xun , Wang Tianyao , Jiang Yihong , Zhang Luokai , Hu Jun , Wu Huiting , Zou Wei , Liu Jun , Zhou Hong
Published: November 2024

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship of choroid plexus (CP) volume with hippocampal subregion volume and glymphatic system in patients with benzodiazepine use disorders (BUD).

Methods

Eighty‐four participants were recruited including 23 patients with BUD, 29 patients with chronic insomnia (CI) and 32 healthy controls (HC). The morphological alterations in CP, hippocampal subfield volumes and diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (DTI‐ALPS) index were compared between the three groups and the relationships between CP volume and hippocampal subfield volumes and the glymphatic system were further investigated.

Results

Compared with the HC individuals, the CP volumes augmented and hippocampal subfield volumes reduced in patients with BUD (P < .05) but not in patients with CI (P > .05). In patients with BUD, there were extensive relationships between augmented CP volume and decreased hippocampal subfield volumes (P < .05, r = −0.421–−0.513). CP volume was negatively related with the DTI‐ALPS index (r = −0.582, P = .004) within the BUD group. In patients with BUD, the volume of bilateral cornu ammonis (CA)1 body, molecular layer (ML) body, hippocampal tail, left CA1 head volumes, right dentate gyrus body volumes, and right CA4 body volumes were positively related with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores (P < .05, r = 0.422–0.683). Right CA1 and ML body volumes positively related with the Mini‐Mental State Examination scores (P < .05, r = 0.503–0.575).

Conclusions

The enlarged CP related to atrophy of hippocampal subfield volumes and the glymphatic system dysfunction were shown in BUD patients.
Insect immunity in the Anthropocene
Authors: Khan Md Kawsar , Rolff Jens
Published: November 2024

Anthropogenic activities result in global change, including climate change, landscape degradation and pollution, that can alter insect physiology and immune defences. These changes may have contributed to global insect decline and the dynamics of insect‐transmitted diseases. The ability of insects to mount immune responses upon infection is crucial for defence against pathogens and parasites. Suppressed immune defences reduce fitness by causing disease‐driven mortality and elevated immune responses reduce energy available to invest in other fitness traits such as reproduction. Understanding the impact of anthropogenic factors on insect–pathogen interactions is therefore key to determining the contribution of anthropogenic global change to pathogen‐driven global insect decline and the emergence and transmission of insect‐borne diseases. Here, we synthesise evidence of the impact of anthropogenic factors on insect immunity. We found evidence that anthropogenic factors, such as insecticides and heavy metals, directly impacting insect immune responses by inhibiting immune activation pathways. Alternatively, factors such as global warming, heatwaves, elevated CO2 and landscape degradation can indirectly reduce insect immune responses via reducing the energy available for immune function. We further review how anthropogenic factors impact pathogen clearance and contribute to an increase in vector‐borne diseases. We discuss the fitness cost of anthropogenic factors via pathogen‐driven mortality and reduced reproductive output and how this can contribute to species extinction. We found that most research has determined the impact of a single anthropogenic factor on insect immune responses or pathogen resistance. We recommend studying the combined impact of multiple stressors on immune response and pathogen resistance to understand better how anthropogenic factors affect insect immunity. We conclude by highlighting the importance of initiatives to mitigate the impact of anthropogenic factors on insect immunity, to reduce the spread of vector‐borne diseases, and to protect vulnerable ecosystems from emerging diseases.