Favorable Conditions Research Articles

The longevity-associated BPIFB4 gene guarantees vascular homeostasis and immune protection through platelets.

Beyond their activity in hemostasis and thrombosis, recent advances attribute platelets a pro-youthful role capable to attenuate immune senescence and age-related neuroinflammation. Previous studies from our group associated a polymorphic haplotype variant in the BPIFB4 gene (LAV-BPIFB4) with exceptional longevity. Transfer of the LAV-BPIFB4 in preclinical models has proved strategic to cope with frailty conditions, aging-related events, e.g., cardiovascular ones, and immune dysfunction mainly through a favorable conditioning of the immune system. However, whether platelets participate in LAV-BPIFB4 therapeutic action is currently unknown.Herein, we discovered that platelets were instrumental in boosting the favorable health outcomes of the systemic AAV-LAV-BPIFB4 gene transfer in vivo, as the α-CD42b platelet depletion completely abolished the vascular protective action of LAV-BPIFB4 and suppressed its pro-resolutive CD206 + anti-/CD86 + pro-inflammatory Ly6C + monocyte skewing to LPS stimulation. Of note, this is associated with a huge drop in the protective levels of BPIFB4 in the plasma of AAV-LAV-BPIFB4-injected C57BL/6 mice, indicating that plasma circulating platelets may be a reservoir of the BPIFB4 protein. Indeed, we noticed that BPIFB4 was released by human platelets, a process that is amplified in LAV-allele carrier donors. Accordingly, lentivirus-mediated overexpression of human LAV-BPIFB4 isoform, but not WT-BPIFB4 isoform was able in leading differentiated megakaryocytes to release more platelet-like-particles enriched for BPIFB4. In addition, in vitro, the M2 macrophage polarization increased when releasate from platelets, and even more from LAV pre-stimulated once, was added in monocyte cell culture. Our data suggest that platelet release of BPIFB4 and of yet-to-be-determined unidentified factors mediates the therapeutic efficacy of LAV-BPIFB4 treatment.

Recent Advances on PKM2 Inhibitors and Activators in Cancer Applications.

Metabolic reprogramming of cells, from the normal mode of glucose metabolism named glycolysis, is a pivotal characteristic of impending cancerous cells. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), an important enzyme that catalyzes the final rate-limiting stage during glycolysis, is highly expressed in numerous types of tumors and aids in development of favorable conditions for the survival of tumor cells. Increasing evidence has suggested that PKM2 is one of promising targets for innovative drug discovery, especially for the developments of antitumor therapeutics. Herein, we systematically summarize the recent advancement on PKM2 modulators including inhibitors and activators in cancer applications. We also discussed the classifications of pyruvate kinases in mammals and the biological functions of PKM2 in this review. We do hope that this review would provide a comprehensive understanding of the current research on PKM2 modulators, which may benefit the development of more potent PKM2-related drug candidates to treat PKM2-associated diseases including cancers in future.

Green hydrogen prospects in Peninsular Malaysia: a techno-economic analysis via Monte Carlo simulations

According to Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap, hydrogen is a critical component of the country's energy transition. However, there is a scarcity of hydrogen studies for Peninsular Malaysian states, which limits discussions on green hydrogen production. This study employs a Monte Carlo model to assess the economic and technical factors influencing the success of green hydrogen in Peninsular Malaysia. The study focuses on three target years: 2023, 2030, and 2050, representing various stages of technological development and market adoption. The levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of a 1-MW Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzer system ranges from $5.39 to $10.97 per kg in 2023, highlighting early-stage challenges and uncertainties. A 6-MW PEM electrolyzer system could achieve an LCOH of $3.50 to $4.72 per kg by 2030, indicating better prospects. Because of technological advancements and cost reductions, a 20-MW PEM electrolyzer system could achieve an LCOH of $3.12 to $3.64 per kg in 2050. The findings indicate that the northern regions of Peninsular Malaysia have consistently low LCOH values due to favorable geographical conditions. Due to minor variations in solar capacity factors, uncertainty distributions in LCOH remain stable across different regions. Some states may face increased uncertainty, emphasizing the need for additional policy support mechanisms to mitigate risks associated with green hydrogen investments. The sensitivity analysis shows that key cost drivers are shifting, with early-stage electrolyzer investments dominating in 2023 and electricity prices becoming more important in 2030 and 2050. Future research could focus on optimizing green hydrogen systems for areas with underdeveloped green hydrogen industries. This study contributes to informed discussions about green hydrogen production by emphasizing the importance of tailored strategies that consider local conditions and highlighting the role of Peninsular Malaysia in the energy transition.

Dynamics and potential origins of decimeter-sized particles around comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko

Context. One of the primary goals of the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission to comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko was to investigate the mechanisms responsible for cometary activity. Aims. Our aim is to learn more about the ejection process of large refractory material by studying the dynamics of decimeter-sized dust particles in the coma of 67P and estimating their potential source regions. Methods. We algorithmically tracked thousands of individual particles through four OSIRIS/NAC image sequences of 67P’s near-nucleus coma. We then traced concentrated particle groups back to the nucleus surface, and estimated their potential source regions, size distributions, and projected dynamical parameters. Finally, we compared the observed activity to dust coma simulations. Results. We traced back 409 decimeter-sized particles to four suspected source regions. The regions strongly overlap and are mostly confined to the Khonsu-Atum-Anubis area. The activity may be linked to rugged terrain, and the erosion of fine dust and the ejection of large boulders may be mutually exclusive. Power-law indices fitted to the particle size–frequency distributions range from 3.4 ± 0.3 to 3.8 ± 0.4. Gas drag fits to the radial particle accelerations provide an estimate for the local gas production rates (Qg = 3.6 × 10−5 kg s−1 m−2), which is several times higher than our model predictions based on purely insolation-driven water ice sublimation. Our observational results and our modeling results both reveal that our particles were likely ejected with substantial nonzero initial velocities of around 0.5–0.6 m s−1. Conclusions. Our findings strongly suggest that the observed ejection of decimeter-sized particles cannot be explained by water ice sublimation and favorable illumination conditions alone. Instead, the local structures and compositions of the source regions likely play a major role. In line with current ejection models of decimeter-sized particles, we deem an overabundance of CO2 ice and its sublimation to be the most probable driver. In addition, because of the significant initial velocities, we suspect the ejection events to be considerably more energetic than gradual liftoffs.

PB adoption across ideological divides: Lessons from Brazil

ABSTRACT Participatory budgeting (PB), a democratic innovation incorporating citizens in the local budgetary decision-making process, has grown from a handful of left-wing municipalities in Brazil to around the globe. While the role of the Workers’ Party in driving PB diffusion in Brazil is well-recognized, less attention is given to how PB traverses across ideological divide and finds audience in some of Brazil’s center-right and conservative parties. This paper proposes a meso-level theory by incorporating party organization in the study of PB diffusion. I argue that parties with a weak brand, low level of internal cohesion, and a decentralized and disconnected structure provide a favorable scope condition for learning about dissimilar policies – an essential step for policy adoption. Combining quantitative analyses of PB in Brazil from 1997 to 2016 and a qualitative study of three major center-right and conservative parties, this paper illustrates the dynamic that explains PB adoption under seemingly unpromising environments.

Assimilation of Water Vapor Retrievals from ZDR Columns Using the 3DVar Method for Improving the Short-Term Prediction of Convective Storms

Abstract The differential reflectivity (ZDR) column is a notable polarimetric signature related to updrafts in deep moist convection. In this study, pseudo–water vapor (qυ) observations are retrieved from observed ZDR columns under the assumption that humidity is saturated within the convection where ZDR columns are detected, and are then assimilated within the 3DVar framework. The impacts of assimilating pseudo-qυ observations from ZDR columns on short-term severe weather prediction are first evaluated for a squall-line case. Radar data analysis indicates that the ZDR columns are mainly located on the inflow side of the high-reflectivity region. Assimilation of the pseudo-qυ observations leads to an enhancement of qυ within the convection, while concurrently reducing humidity in no-rain areas. Sensitivity experiments indicate that a tuned smaller observation error and a shorter horizontal decorrelation scale are optimal for a better assimilation of pseudo-qυ from ZDR columns, resulting in more stable rain rates during short-term forecasts. Additionally, a 15-min cycling assimilation frequency yields the best performance, providing the most accurate reflectivity forecast in terms of both location and intensity. Analysis of thermodynamic fields reveal that assimilating ZDR columns provides more favorable initial conditions for sustaining convection, including sustainable moisture condition, a strong cold pool, and divergent winds near the surface, consequently enhancing reflectivity and precipitation. With the optimal configuration determined from the sensitivity tests, a quantitative evaluation further demonstrates that assimilating the pseudo-qυ observations from ZDR columns using the 3DVar method can improve the 0–3-h reflectivity and accumulated precipitation predictions of convective storms.

Optimization and analysis of distributed generation units in distributed system for minimizing losses

The proposed study presents a novel methodology aimed at mitigating losses in distributed generation (DG) systems within distributed networks. This methodology involves the integration and implementation of DG units that utilize non-conventional, sustainable resources, potentially enhancing traditional DG systems. When DG units are located near the point of consumption, they create favorable conditions for voltage support, reduction in energy losses, and lower emissions. The strategic placement of DG units, in terms of both size and location within an existing generation network, is critical for the construction, execution, and operational planning of real-time distribution networks. This optimal positioning is key to maximizing voltage stability and minimizing power loss. The study proposes an innovative strategy to decrease real power losses and improve voltage profiles, which includes optimizing substation capacity by introducing DG units.

Canopy cover and microtopography control precipitation-enhanced thaw of ecosystem-protected permafrost

Northern high-latitudes are projected to get warmer and wetter, which will affect rates of permafrost thaw and mechanisms by which thaw occurs. To better understand the impact of rain, as well as other factors such as snow depth, canopy cover, and microtopography, we instrumented a degrading permafrost plateau in south-central Alaska with high-resolution soil temperature sensors. The site contains ecosystem-protected permafrost, which persists in unfavorable climates due to favorable ecologic conditions. Our study (2020–2022) captured three of the snowiest years and three of the four wettest years since the site was first studied in 2015. Average thaw rates along an across-site transect increased nine-fold from 6 ± 5 cm yr−1 (2015–2020) to 56 ± 12 cm yr−1 (2020–2022). This thaw was not uniform. Hummock locations, residing on topographic high points with relatively dense canopy, experienced only 8 ± 9 cm yr−1 of thaw, on average. Hollows, topographic low points with low canopy cover, and transition locations, which had canopy cover and elevation between hummocks and hollows, thawed 44 ± 6 cm yr−1 and 39 ± 13 cm yr−1, respectively. Mechanisms of thaw differed between these locations. Hollows had high warm-season soil moisture, which increased thermal conductivity, and deep cold-season snow coverage, which insulated soil. Transition locations thawed primarily due to thermal energy transported through subsurface taliks during individual rain events. Most increases in depth to permafrost occurred below the ∼45 cm thickness seasonally frozen layer, and therefore, expanded existing site taliks. Results highlight the importance of canopy cover and microtopography in controlling soil thermal inputs, the ability of subsurface runoff from individual rain events to trigger warming and thaw, and the acceleration of thaw caused by consecutive wet and snowy years. As northern high-latitudes become warmer and wetter, and weather events become more extreme, the importance of these controls on soil warming and thaw is likely to increase.

Examining the Relationship Between Financial Knowledge, Risk Tolerance, and Past Behavioural Bias on Investors Actual Investment Behavior

Purpose: The present study aims to determine the factors influencing investment intention and actual investment behaviour in mutual funds. The study uses financial knowledge and risk tolerance as moderators and past behavioral bias as a mediator. Theoretical framework: The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) appears to have become a very useful model for predicting various investing behaviours. Therefore, the present utilises the TPB model to analyse mutual fund investment behaviour. Design/methodology/approach: The convenience sampling method was used to collect respondents from a population of 582 retail investors through questionnaire survey This research used partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) as the main method of data analysis using SmartPLS 4. Findings: Attitude, financial knowledge, and risk tolerance emerged as the most important determinants of mutual fund investment intention. This highlights the significance of creating favorable conditions in terms of accessibility, which may encourage and ease the decision of investors to purchase mutual funds. Research, Practical & Social implications: Marketers can explain how their mutual fund offerings would help both the market and investors. Marketers should prioritize proper communication about the benefits of mutual funds to investors, as communication is regarded as a critical tool for the success of mutual fund products. Originality/value: To understand individual investors' intentions to engage in mutual funds, the impact of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control on investor intentions and, actual investment behaviour were hypothesised and analysed, financial knowledge and risk tolerance functioning as moderators. Additionally, past behavioural bias is a mediator.

Regional features of modern Russian science (on the example of the republic of Bashkortostan of the Russian Federation)

The article analyzes the regional peculiarities of modern Russian science. In the course of the research the works devoted to the training and reproduction of scientific personnel, as well as to improving the quality and efficiency of scientific activity have been studied. The general trends in the scientific personnel formation system have been revealed, and the factors and indicators that influence science development in the regions identified. A comparative analysis of scientific personnel training in Russia and abroad has been carried out, the distinctive and similar characteristics identified. The data on domestic universities publication activity have been presented. In the Russian universities subject rating the Republic of Bashkortostan universities are mainly in the third ten, which indicates the need to strengthen scientific programs financing, increase salaries and improve working conditions for researchers. An important factor in science successful development in the region is creating attractive conditions for young scientists, who play a key role in science and innovations development, as their participation is considered a scientific progress driver. The author emphasizes the importance of strengthening the science development in Russian regions, which requires not only financial investments, but also systemic changes aimed at supporting researchers and creating favorable working conditions.

The heterogeneous impact of social distancing on household-level economic performances: evidence from a large survey in Vietnam

ABSTRACT This study utilizes a large dataset surveyed by Facebook and several academic institutions to examine the heterogeneous impact of social distancing on household-level economic performances, employing the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator and controlling multi-channel fixed effects. In particular, in this case study, the Vietnamese government’s sudden social distancing policy, which is seen as a quasi-experiment, has created favourable conditions to evaluate the causality of this nexus. The results confirm that increased social distancing leads to a higher likelihood of unemployment, especially for women and lower education levels groups. Notably, the study also finds that people with less desirable economic status (i.e. higher rate of unemployment and food insecurity) are more heavily hurt by social distancing practices. Therefore, the findings suggest the need for welfare programmes for these disadvantaged groups post-pandemic.

When 2D g-C3N4 meets 0D CNQDs and 1D CNTs: A strategy for photocatalytic hydrogen production over a ternary non-metallic catalyst

Utilizing solar energy to facilitate photocatalytic hydrogen production holds great promise in addressing the energy crisis. One material that shows tremendous potential in this field is two-dimensional graphitic carbon nitride (2D g-C3N4). However, the fast recombination rate of photogenerated carriers and the limited specific surface area impede its photocatalytic activity. This research endeavors to address these limitations by developing a ternary composite photocatalyst, CNQDs/g-C3N4/CNTs, by employing the microwave hydrothermal method. g-C3N4 was co-modified with zero-dimensional g-C3N4 quantum dots (0D CNQDs) and one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (1D CNTs). Incorporating CNQDs and the g-C3N4 interface facilitates the separation of photogenerated carriers, while the tubular channel of CNTs provides favorable conditions for transferring photogenerated electrons. Additionally, the introduction of CNQDs and CNTs significantly increases the specific surface area of the sample, thereby enhancing the number of reaction active sites available for the photocatalytic production of hydrogen. The hydrogen generation rate of the CNQDs/g-C3N4/CNTs is 1109.388 μmol⋅g−1⋅h−1, surpassing that of the single g-C3N4 specimen by 3.62 times. The application of density functional theory (DFT) calculations reinforces the enhanced performance of the composite through the synergistic effect of CNQDs and CNTs. This effect optimizes the adsorption behavior of the active intermediate (H*) and reduces the Gibbs free energy ΔG(H*) associated with the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction.

Ensuring sustainability in Libya with renewable energy and pumped hydro storage

A radical transformation is occurring in the global energy system, with solar PV and wind energy contributing to three-quarters of new electricity generation capacity due to their affordability. This shift towards renewable electrification of energy services, such as transportation, heating, and industry, will gradually replace fossil fuels in the coming decades. This paper highlights Libya's potential to achieve energy self-sufficiency in the twenty-first century. In addition to its fossil energy resources, Libya possesses favourable conditions for solar, wind, and moderate hydroelectric energy. The solar energy potential alone is approximately 100 times greater than what is needed to support a fully solar-powered system that provides energy consumption similar to developed countries for all Libyan citizens, without relying on fossil fuels. Moreover, Libya's Green Mountain range offers substantial opportunities for low-cost pumped off-river hydropower storage. Therefore, the integration of solar and wind energy, complemented by hydropower and battery storage, is likely to be the primary pathway for the rapid growth of Libya's renewable electricity sector.

Comparative and functional analysis unveils the contribution of photoperiod to DNA methylation, sRNA accumulation, and gene expression variations in short-day and long-day grasses.

Photoperiod employs complicated networks to regulate various developmental processes in plants, including flowering transition. However, the specific mechanisms by which photoperiod affects epigenetic modifications and gene expression variations in plants remain elusive. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation, small RNA (sRNA) accumulation, and gene expressions under different daylengths in facultative long-day (LD) grass Brachypodium distachyon and short-day (SD) grass rice. Our results showed that while overall DNA methylation levels were minimally affected by different photoperiods, CHH methylation levels were repressed under their favorable light conditions, particularly in rice. We identified numerous differentially methylated regions (DMRs) that were influenced by photoperiod in both plant species. Apart from differential sRNA clusters, we observed alterations in the expression of key components of the RNA-directed DNA methylation pathway, DNA methyltransferases, and demethylases, which may contribute to the identified photoperiod-influenced CHH DMRs. Furthermore, we identified many differentially expressed genes in response to different daylengths, some of which were associated with the DMRs. Notably, we discovered a photoperiod-responsive gene MYB11 in the transcriptome of B.distachyon, and further demonstrated its role as a flowering inhibitor by repressing FT1 transcription. Together, our comparative and functional analysis sheds light on the effects of daylength on DNA methylation, sRNA accumulation, and gene expression variations in LD and SD plants, thereby facilitating better designing breeding programs aimed at developing high-yield crops that can adapt to local growing seasons.

A new approach in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum, 1792) industry: "Turkish Salmon" production and marketing trends

With favorable environmental conditions and the adoption of new technologies, Türkiye has 1703 enterprises producing trout as of 2022. These enterprises collectively produce 167,286 tons of trout per year, including portioned fish (200-250 g), fillet candidates (400-600 g), and fillets (known as Turkish Salmon) (>3000 g). The production chain for Turkish Salmon involves hatcheries, dam lake net cage systems, and offshore net cage systems. There are 680 hatcheries producing trout eggs and fry, with a total annual production of 1,360,029,485 eggs. Additionally, 622 pond/dam lake net cage systems are used for producing Turkish Salmon candidates weighing 400-600 g, with a total production capacity of 163,525,079 kg per year. Offshore net cage systems in the Black Sea region, spread across six provinces, are utilized for Turkish Salmon production. Production planning is underway for two provinces, with a total planned production area of 15,650,000 m2 and a projected capacity of 221,188,000 kg per year. Türkiye is actively involved in the global aquaculture sector, paying close attention to its advancements. Türkiye has a strong egg/juvenile production capacity compared to other countries involved in trout production globally. However, the importation of biotechnology-applied and observed eggs continues, posing biological and genetic risks to Türkiye's natural aquatic areas. Over the past 20 years, Türkiye's trout production has grown significantly, reaching 167,286 tons per year, marking it as a significant food production industry. This success can be attributed to favorable environmental conditions, increasing consumer demand, the adoption of new technologies, and consistent investments. However, the rapid growth in the trout farming sector over the past five years has led to an uncontrollable decline in survival rates. This decline can be attributed to the spread of diseases, incorrect treatment methods, improper breeding management practices, flawed business management, unregulated fish transport, and compromised sanitary and environmental conditions.

Analysis of Competitiveness of Azerbaijan Persimmon Export in the International Market

The research examined the changing pattern of export in persimmon in Azerbaijan at a macro level within 10 years from 2012 to 2021. Persimmon is the leading export of the Azerbaijan agricultural sector. Due to favorable growing conditions in Azerbaijan, persimmon cultivation has a massive range. The export of Azerbaijan persimmon is playing an important role in at the many households and increasing year after year. RCA model has been applied to evaluate the competitiveness of Azerbaijan persimmon export.

Wage Dispersion and Team Performance: A Review of 25 Years of Research on Professional Sports

Since initial studies in the late 1990s, researchers have examined the relationship between wage dispersion and team performance in professional sports. While no definitive consensus has emerged across the sports studied, it is still useful to consider where this literature stands after 25 years of research given its clear importance not just for professional sports, but also for economic decision-making in general. This review of the relevant literature organizes discussion of: (1) the theoretical foundations underlying the wage dispersion–team performance empirical studies, (2) the favorable conditions found in professional sports that provide a unique “laboratory” for researching this topic, (3) conclusions from the empirical literature about the relationship in focus and the different factors in those studies which likely contribute to the varied conclusions, and (4) promising avenues for furthering this line of research in the near future.

Influence study of the seed germination multigerm pollinators of the sugar beet on their productivity

Goal. Studies conducted on Verhnyachskoy experienced-selection stations. Purpose of the studies was define the influence hereditary conditioned sign seeds germination new candidate in multigerm pollinators (МP) of the sugar beet on productive quality of the material. Conduct the selection perspective number posterity F1 and define efficiency of the selection on their improvement.
 Methods. Initial materials (IM) have served recombination (rk) МP foreign gene plasma productive rk БЗ4, БЗ5 БЗ6 БЗ7 and individual elections of their hybrids — synthetic, are received in result pollinate cross and have checked up crossbreeding, with high growing seed 80—95%. Standard — native pollinators Verhnyachkoy of an origin.
 Results. Phenologicheskie of supervision, laboratory germination seeds and test of a grade carried out in the standard methods [1, 2]. It is installed that high seeds germination have inherited the posterity under number 547, 556, 563, 564 (93—96%). We tie this as with weather condition under grow seeds so and ingenious selection component crossbreeding. Beside them is fixed satisfactory factors on productivities (45.3—50.3 t/h) in comparison to IM (42 t/h) and standard (38 t/h). Contents sugar from 19.51—20.21%, standard has got 19.44. Collection sugar was within 9—10 t/h (standard — 7, IM — 8 t/h). Satisfactory posterity productivity, probably, have got not only as a result favorable climatic condition at years of the test, but also in greater degree they are inherited from high productivity of the source parental forms.
 Conclusions. Have got the row new candidate in MP with improvement selection- and economic-valuable sign. Is established, that at creation new seeds of parental components of hybrids of sugar beet, it is necessary to take into account parameters of the genetic control of attributes of productivity, contents of sugar in IM and high quality of efficiency seeds. This spurs the posterity on temple ease of manufacturing, competitive ability and profit.

Annual and Seasonal Characteristics of Rainfall Erosivity in the Eastern Rhodopes (Bulgaria)

Rainfall, with its intensity, duration, and seasonal distribution, is among the main factors causing soil erosion, which is a widespread environmental problem in Bulgaria. Rainfall erosivity shows the potential of precipitation to generate erosion processes and is an essential indicator of the climate vulnerability of a region. This paper aims to evaluate rainfall erosivity in a part of the Eastern Rhodopes Mountains, an area that is characterised by high-intensity erosion processes and high erosion risk. Local peculiarities of rainfall erosivity were revealed by the calculation of some precipitation indices based on the monthly precipitation for the period 2000–2021, such as the precipitation concentration index (PCI), Angot precipitation index, Fournier index (FI), and modified Fournier index (MFI). The analysis of the extremely wet and extremely dry months at the annual and seasonal (October–March and April–September) levels was performed to evaluate the susceptibility to erosion. The results from the study show that rainfall erosivity in the studied area varies from low to moderate in the northern part of the study area and from high to very high in the south. According to the MFI, high and very high erosivities have been observed mainly since 2012. The erosivity increases from north to south, to the area with a complex relief, where the combination of orography and atmospheric circulation make favourable conditions for the occurrence of extreme precipitation. The analyses of the calculated indices show that the precipitations in most of the studied area generally have from a low to a moderate erosivity, but this does not exclude the occurrence of cases with high and very high erosivities, which are characteristic of recent years and are related to the increase in annual precipitations and extreme precipitation months. The results of this study can contribute to the development and implementation of measures and preventive activities for the reduction and possible elimination of the negative impacts of extreme precipitation.

Large-scale agricultural investments and local food security – Evidence from a mixed-method case study in Benin

AbstractLarge-scale agricultural investments (LSAIs) and their impacts on local communities in host countries have been controversially discussed in recent years. As scholars increasingly call for more structured and comprehensive analyses, we develop a mixed-method approach using an expanded version of the “Right to Food” (RtF) framework to systematically investigate the local food security impacts of a recently established tomato-producing LSAI in Central Benin, West Africa. We find that the LSAI keeps natural resources as accessible as possible for the local community and provides employment opportunities, leading to higher dietary diversity of employees and multiplier effects in the local economy. At the same time, we find inequalities regarding the compensation of former land users as well as high job insecurity for temporary laborers who face high transportation costs to reach the LSAI. We argue that fair and inclusive compensation, improved access to markets and machinery, access to natural resources for often overlooked groups (pastoralists, hunters, fishermen) and social infrastructure are crucial factors in promoting positive outcomes of LSAIs on communities and that strong local institutions play a key role for achieving this. We conclude that the specific characteristics of our case (relatively small size, labor-intensive crop, focus on regional markets) provide favorable conditions for positive impacts on local food security. We encourage further, structured mixed-method studies, ideally including longitudinal and comparative research designs, to investigate the multidimensional effects related to the establishment of LSAIs. The extended RtF framework can thereby serve as a structural lens to systematically analyze the findings.