bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Level and determinants of willingness to pay for rapid COVID-19 testing delivered through private retail pharmacies in Kenya
Authors: Kazungu Jacob , Mumbi Audrey , Kilimo Precious , Vernon Jessica , Barasa Edwine , Mugo Peter 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIntroductionTo support the government response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, accessible and sustainable testing approaches are needed. Private retail pharmacies are a key channel through which communities can access COVID-19 testing. We examined the level and determinants of the willingness to pay (WTP) for rapid COVID-19 testing delivered through private retail pharmacies in Kenya.MethodsData was collected following a cross-sectional double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation survey across 341 clients visiting five private retail pharmacies in Nairobi, Kisumu and Siaya counties.ResultsOur findings indicate mean and median WTP levels of KES 611 (US$ 5.59) and KES 506 (US$ 4.63), respectively. Estimated WTP varied across counties and increased with household income and self-reported interest in pharmacy-based COVID-19 rapid testing.ConclusionThese findings can inform price setting, price differentiation, price subsidization and other program design features geared towards enhancing affordability, equity, and uptake.Key QuestionsWhat is already known?The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic continues to cause great morbidity, mortality, social and economic burden.Pharmacies in Kenya have been involved in the delivery of several health interventions, such as malaria rapid testing, HIV self-testing, and other disease screening services.While COVID-19 testing remains an important response strategy to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is not clear how much pharmacy clients in Kenya and similar settings would be willing to pay (WTP) to obtain rapid COVID-19 testing at pharmaciesWhat are the new findings?The mean and median willingness to pay (WTP) for a rapid test delivered at a private retail pharmacy was KES 611 (US$ 5.59) and KES 506 (US$ 4.63), respectively.WTP varied by county, hence, the need for county-specific price-setting for pharmacy-based COVID-19 testing.WTP increased with household income and interest in getting the COVID-19 test at a private retail pharmacy.What do the new findings imply?A better understanding of the user’s willingness to pay price that can guide price setting, price differentiation, price subsidization and other program design features geared towards enhancing affordability, equity, and uptake.
The sperm-associated microbiota of crickets and their local variation and rapid turnover
Authors: Eckel Barbara A. , Illner Anastasia V. , Otti Oliver , Reinhardt Klaus 
Published: October 2021

AbstractWhile studying aspects of the sperm biology and immunity of two species of crickets, we encountered bacteria that were released from the male sperm container, the spermatophore, alongside sperm. We describe a presumably rich microbe flora in the sperm population (‘sperm-associated microbiota’). These sperm-associated microbiota differed between the two species of cricket and between different populations and showed functional diversity. Further, sperm-associated microbiota killed sperm, highlighting their potential role in fitness, especially since they are most likely transferred to females during mating.
Defunctionalizing Intracellular Organelles with Genetically-Encoded Molecular Tools Based on Engineered Phospholipase A/Acyltransferases (PLAATs)
Authors: Watanabe Satoshi , Nihongaki Yuta , Itoh Kie , Watanabe Shigeki , Inoue Takanari 
Published: October 2021

AbstractOrganelles vitally achieve multifaceted functions to maintain cellular homeostasis. Genetic and pharmacological approaches to manipulate individual organelles are powerful in probing their physiological roles. However, many of them are either slow in action, limited to certain organelles, or rely on toxic agents. Here, we designed a generalizable molecular tool utilizing phospholipase A/acyltransferases (PLAATs) for rapid induction of organelle defunctionalization via remodeling of the membrane phospholipid composition. In particular, we identified a minimal, fully catalytic PLAAT with no unfavorable side effects. Chemically-induced translocation of the engineered PLAAT to the mitochondria surface resulted in their rapid deformation in a phospholipase activity dependent manner, followed by loss of luminal proteins as well as dissipated membrane potential, thus invalidating the functionality. To demonstrate wide applicability, we then adapted the molecular tool in peroxisomes, and observed leakage of matrix-resident functional proteins. The technique was compatible with optogenetic control, viral delivery and operation in primary neuronal cultures. Due to such versatility, the PLAAT strategy should present a novel utility in organelle biology of diverse contexts.
The Activity of the Stress Modulated Arabidopsis Ubiquitin Ligases PUB46 and PUB48 is Partially Redundant
Authors: Zizelski-Valenci Gal , Raveh Dina , Bar-Zvi Dudy 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe Arabidopsis ubiquitin ligases PUB46, PUB47 and PUB48 are encoded by paralogus genes; pub46 and pub48 mutants display increased drought sensitivity compared to wild type (WT). Although the phenotype displayed in the single gene mutants, suggest that each has specific biological activity, PUB46 and PUB48 activity may be also redundant. To test functional redundancy between two gene products requires a double mutant. Unfortunately, the close proximity of the PUB46 and PUB48 gene loci precludes obtaining a double mutant by crossing the available single mutants. We thus applied microRNA technology to reduce the activity of all three gene products of the PUB46-48 subfamily by constructing an artificial microRNA (aMIR) targeted to this subfamily. Expressing aMIR46-48 in WT plants resulted in increased drought-sensitivity, a phenotype resembling that of the single pub46 and pub48 mutants, and enhanced sensitivity to methyl viologen, similar to that observed for the pub46 mutant. Furthermore, the WT plants expressing aMIR46-48 also revealed reduced inhibition by ABA at seed germination, a phenotype not evident in the single mutants. Expressing aMIR46-48 in pub46 and pub48 mutants further enhanced the drought sensitivity of each parental single mutant and of WT expressing aMIR46-48. Thus, whereas the gene-specific activity of the PUB46 and PUB48 E3s is partially redundant in that absence of either E3 leads to drought sensitivity, our ability to eliminate the activity of both PUB46 and PUB48 in the same plant reveals additional gene specific facets of their activity in the reaction to abiotic stress.
Dispersal and polyandry evolve as competing inbreeding avoidance strategies
Authors: Bocedi Greta 
Published: October 2021

AbstractUnderstanding evolution of complex life-histories requires explicitly considering their multiple interactions, feedbacks, and shared drivers. Inbreeding depression is hypothesized to drive evolution of two life-histories which have far-reaching ecological and evolutionary consequence: dispersal and polyandry. Yet, the role of inbreeding depression in the separate evolution of these key life-histories is still debated, while the possibility for their joint evolution and consequent covariation has not been considered. I propose that dispersal and polyandry might be competing means of inbreeding avoidance which negatively feedback on each other’s evolution. Using a genetically explicit individual-based model, I first demonstrate that inbreeding depression can drive the separate evolution of dispersal and polyandry. Although this is largely known for dispersal, it is not as well established for polyandry evolution, which generally remains an evolutionary puzzle. Here, I show that polyandry can indeed evolve as means of indirect inbreeding avoidance in spatially structured populations. Second, when dispersal and polyandry can evolve jointly, a negative feedback emerges, such that they evolve as alternative inbreeding avoidance strategies across replicate systems, especially if there are fitness costs associated. Finally, although both dispersal and polyandry might be expected to shape the level of inbreeding depression, this is mainly affected by dispersal, while polyandry has a much more limited effect. These results emphasize the need to consider the potential joint evolution of dispersal and mating system in general, together with their genetic effects, to further our understanding of life-history evolution in spatially structured systems, and provide theoretical expectations for new empirical testing.
An ancestral interaction module promotes oligomerization in divergent mitochondrial ATP synthases
Authors: Gahura Ondřej , Mühleip Alexander , Hierro-Yap Carolina , Panicucci Brian , Jain Minal , Hollaus David , Slapničková Martina , Zíková Alena , Amunts Alexey 
Published: October 2021

AbstractMitochondrial ATP synthase forms stable dimers arranged into oligomeric assemblies that generate the inner-membrane curvature essential for efficient energy conversion. Here, we report cryo-EM structures of the intact ATP synthase dimer from Trypanosoma brucei in ten different rotational states. The model consists of 25 subunits, including nine lineage-specific, as well as 36 lipids. The rotary mechanism is influenced by the divergent peripheral stalk, conferring a greater conformational flexibility. Proton transfer in the lumenal half-channel occurs via a chain of five ordered water molecules. The dimerization interface is formed by subunit-g that is critical for interactions but not for the catalytic activity. Although overall dimer architecture varies among eukaryotes, we find that subunit-g together with subunit-e form an ancestral oligomerization motif, which is shared between the trypanosomal and mammalian lineages. Therefore, our data defines the subunit-g/e module as a structural component determining ATP synthase oligomeric assemblies.
Live Analysis of Position Effect Variegation (PEV) in Drosophila Reveals Different Modes of Action for HP1a and Su(var)3-9
Authors: Bughio Farah J. , Maggert Keith A. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractPosition Effect Variegation (PEV) results from the juxtaposition of euchromatic and heterochromatic components of eukaryotic genomes, silencing genes near the new euchromatin/heterochromatin junctions. Silencing is itself heritable through S phase, giving rise to distinctive random patterns of cell clones expressing the genes intermixed with clones in which the genes are silenced. Much of what we know about epigenetic inheritance in the soma stems from work on PEV aimed at identifying the components of the silencing machinery and its mechanism of inheritance. The roles of two central gene activities – the Su(var)3-9-encoded histone H3-Lysine-9 methyltransferase and the Su(var)205-encoded methyl-H3-Lysine-9 binding protein HP1a – have been inferred from terminal phenotypes, leaving considerable gaps in understanding how PEV behaves through development. Here, we investigate the PEV phenotypes of Su(var)3-9 and Su(var)205 mutations in live developing tissues. We discovered that mutation in Su(var)205 compromises the initial establishment of PEV in early embryogenesis. Later gains of heterochromatin-induced gene silencing are possible, but are unstable and lost rapidly. In contrast, a strain with mutation in Su(var)3-9 exhibits robust silencing early in development, but fails to maintain it through subsequent cell divisions. Our analyses show that while the terminal phenotypes of these mutations may appear identical, they have arrived at them through different developmental trajectories. We discuss how our findings expand and clarify existing models for epigenetic inheritance of heterochromatin-induced gene silencing.SignificanceCurrent concepts of epigenetic inheritance are exemplified by Position Effect Variegation, a phenomenon whereby heterochromatin can repress genes in clonal cell lineages. Heterochromatin is required for genome protection as it silences toxic transposable elements and prevents instability of repeat sequences. Histone H3 modified by methylation of Lysine-9 and HP1a are critical components of heterochromatin. Using live cell analysis of PEV in mutants in strains with mutations in Su(var)3-9, which encodes the histone methyltransferase, and Su(var)205, which encodes HP1a, we describe an unexpected dynamism in PEV, challenging current models of epigenetics, and revealing unexpectedly different modes of action of these two fundamental components of heterochromatin.
Has the innovative city pilot policy improved the level of urban innovation?
Authors: Li Zheng , Yang Siying 
Published: October 2021

PurposeA city is a spatial carrier of innovation activities. Improving the level of urban innovation can play a significant supporting role in building an innovative country. China began to implement the innovative city pilot policy in 2008 and continued to expand the policy into more areas for exploring the path of innovative urban development with Chinese characteristics and improving urban innovation.Design/methodology/approachBased on mechanism analysis, this paper used the panel data of 269 cities from 2003 to 2016 to empirically test the effect of the pilot policy on the level of urban innovation by using different methods, such as the difference-in-differences model.FindingsThe results show that the innovative city pilot policy significantly improves the level of urban innovation. However, according to the findings of the heterogeneity analysis, the effect of the pilot policy on improving the innovation level in direct-controlled municipalities, provincial capitals and sub-provincial cities is weaker than that in ordinary cities, and the effect of the pilot policy on improving the innovation level in cities with a higher quality of science and education resources is weaker than that in cities with lower quality of science and education resources.Originality/valueMoreover, as the level of urban innovation increases, the effect of the pilot policy on improving the level of urban innovation is an asymmetric inverted V shape, which means the effect is first strengthened and then weakened. The research also finds that the locational heterogeneity of the pilot policy for improving the level of urban innovation is not notable. In addition, the innovative city pilot policy can strengthen the government's strategic guidance, promote the concentration of talent, incentivize corporate investment and optimize the innovation environment, having a positive impact on urban innovation. Moreover, the effect of concentration of talent and the effect of corporate investment incentive are the important reasons for the pilot policy to promote the improvement of the level of urban innovation.
Banks' support for the development of internationalization in Brazil: a perspective from Brazilian export companies
Authors: Mataveli Mara , Ayala Juan Carlos , Gil Alfonso J. 
Published: October 2021

PurposeBanks play a crucial role in the sustainable development of exports as they finance much of the trade. Additionally, in Brazil's case, banks provide exporting companies with advisory and training services, which facilitate the internationalization process. This work aims to analyze the role of public and private banks in the export process of companies in Brazil.Design/methodology/approachInterviews are conducted with a sample of 318 Brazilian exporting companies. Two research questions are posed: What type of export services do companies use from public and private banks in Brazil? Is exporting companies' access to credit, as a type of banking service, related to their size or export experience? A descriptive study of the functions of public and private banks in helping Brazilian exports is presented. Hypotheses are proposed regarding companies' access to credit and its relationship with their size and export experience.FindingsIt is found that public and private banks in Brazil provide exporting companies with banking services, other services related to technical aspects, and export consulting. There are significant differences in access to credit in both public and private banks, depending on the exporting company's size.Originality/valueThis work contributes to the internationalization literature on the role of banks in supporting exports in an emerging country like Brazil.
Does gender matter? A university ecosystem, self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention analysis in Brazilian universities
Authors: Pelegrini Gisela Consolmagno , Moraes Gustavo Hermínio Salati Marcondes de 
Published: October 2021

Purpose
This paper aims to enlighten existing gender differences in the linkages between university ecosystem, self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention in a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach
The empirical exercise relies on Partial Least Squares Structural Equations Modeling based on data from a probabilistic sample of 467 Brazilian students of 70 universities across the country.

Findings
The university ecosystem positively influences self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention. Entrepreneurial intention is also influenced by self-efficacy. Gender difference lies in females’ self-efficacy, which presents a higher impact on entrepreneurial intentions.

Research limitations/implications
The research used a secondary database, which offered a limited view of the constructs analyzed. Moreover, by evaluating perception conditions, students’ self-evaluation may not offer conditions to better comprehend higher education organizations conditions.

Practical implications
This paper provided an evaluation of entrepreneurship in universities and gender differences, also presenting an analysis tool for university ecosystems. The assessment of the university ecosystem in two dimensions helps to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of university ecosystems and also the impact they can have on the entrepreneurial ecosystems in which they are inserted.

Originality/value
This study added in-depth information on the dynamics of entrepreneurial universities and gender differences in the context of a developing country, with a probabilistic sample. Both the comprehensive analysis of the model and the assessment at the variable level bring new evidence that can guide entrepreneurship-oriented initiatives in universities.
The legal guarantees to protect foreign investment in Jordan
Authors: Helalat Mohamad Ali 
Published: October 2021

PurposeThis paper aims to indicate that the foreign investment system in Jordan includes many provisions that create an appropriate environment for encouraging foreign investments and grant a distinctive treatment for the foreign investor that allows them the status equal to the national investor.Design/methodology/approachThis study deals with the protection provided by the Jordan Government for foreign investments to attract foreign investment by studying the guarantees given by Jordan including many legal principles that encourage investment. The legal guarantees for the foreign investor enhance the confidence of the foreign investor in the host country.FindingsThe system provides a lot of guarantees with respect to non-commercial risks to which the foreign investor may be exposed.Originality/valueThe paper also clarifies that the role played by bilateral agreements in the field of investments, as these agreements give foreign investments a measure of protection through the guarantees and they are considered as incentives for the investor.
Evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to reducing screen time in children: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Akçay Duygu , Barış Nuray 
Published: October 2021

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of interventions focused on reducing screen time in children.

Design/methodology/approach
Studies that aim to investigate the effects of interventions aimed at reducing the time spent in front of the screen (i.e. screen time). A Random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled standard mean differences. The outcome was to evaluate the screen time in children in the 0–18 age range. A subgroup analysis was performed to reveal the extent to which the overall effect size varied by subgroups (participant age, duration of intervention and follow).

Findings
For the outcome, the meta-analysis included 21 studies, and the standard difference in mean change in screen time in the intervention group compared with the control group was −0.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], −0.21 to −0.12) (p < 0.001). The effect size was found to be higher in long-term (=7 months) interventions and follow-ups (p < 0.05).

Originality/value
Subgroup analysis showed that a significant effect of screen time reduction was observed in studies in which the duration of intervention and follow-up was =7 months. As the evidence base grows, future researchers can contribute to these findings by conducting a more comprehensive analysis of effect modifiers and optimizing interventions to reduce screen time.
Impact of soft TQM practices on employee work role performance: role of innovative work behaviour and initiative climate
Authors: Vihari Nitin Simha , Yadav Mohit , Panda Tapan Kumar 
Published: October 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of soft total quality management (TQM) practices on employee work role performance in the manufacturing sector of United Arab Emirates. It also examined the indirect effect of innovative work behaviour and initiative climate.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a conclusive research design and survey data was collected from 290 employees working in non-managerial positions across various manufacturing companies in UAE. The hypotheses of the empirical study are tested using structural equation modelling. The indirect effects created through moderated mediation are analysed using Hayes Process Macro.FindingsThe results show that soft TQM practices have a positive influence on work role performance. Employee innovative work behaviour acts as a partial mediator and initiative climate moderates the relationship.Research limitations/implicationsThe study adopted a cross-sectional analysis and single informants are used, so it is advised that the interpretation of the results is made with enough caution.Practical implicationsPractitioners must bear in mind that when the employees are adequately trained, empowered, involved and organized as team, it would result in employee innovative behaviour and improved work role performance. The top management should be persuaded to be more committed to the above-mentioned activities for more positive employee-level outcomes.Originality/valueVery few studies have conducted an empirical validation at the intersection of human resource management (HRM) and TQM. This is one of the first studies to examine the relationship between soft TQM and employee work role performance.
Selecting velocity models using Bayesian Information Criterion
Authors: Danek Tomasz , Gierlach Bartosz , Kaderali Ayiaz , Slawinski Michael A. , Stanoev Theodore 
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTWe present a strategy for selecting the values of model parameters by comparing walkaway vertical seismic profiling data with a multilayered model in the context of Bayesian information criterion. We consider P‐wave traveltimes and assume elliptical polar velocity dependence. A model with different propagation speeds, depending on the angle of propagation, can be a good approximation for a medium composed of thin layers. While elliptical anisotropy in a one‐layer model yields good results, an efficient tool for multilayer modelling would provide improved inversion results. To obtain the proper set of velocity values for specific parameterizations, we require two steps of optimization. In the first step, we find the signal trajectory; in the second step, we obtain parameter values by minimizing the misfit between the model and the data. By comparing models and data, we choose the best model in the sense of the Bayesian information criterion.