Management Program Research Articles

Understanding Insect Behavior and Physiology for Effective Pest Management

Effective pest management is crucial for sustainable agriculture and public health, necessitating a deep understanding of insect behavior and physiology. This paper explores the intricate mechanisms that govern insect activities and their interactions with the environment, which are pivotal in developing targeted and efficient pest control strategies. By delving into the sensory and neural processes that drive insect behavior, we uncover how insects locate food, mates, and habitats, providing insights into disrupting these processes to control pest populations. Additionally, the study examines the physiological adaptations that enable insects to thrive under various environmental conditions, such as resistance to pesticides and adaptation to climate changes. Understanding these adaptations is essential for designing novel, more sustainable pest management techniques. The paper also discusses the role of chemical ecology in pest management, focusing on pheromones and other semiochemicals used in integrated pest management (IPM) programs. By combining behavioral studies with physiological research, this paper aims to highlight the synergy between these fields, offering a comprehensive approach to developing innovative and effective pest control methods. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the advancement of pest management practices that are not only effective but also environmentally sustainable and economically viable.

Realized heritability and fitness costs of flupyradifurone resistance in the cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch

The cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch (Homoptera: Aphididae) is a serious insect pest that infests legume crops. Flupyradifurone (FPF) is a butenolide insecticide that selectively targets sucking insects including aphids and whiteflies. However, the realized heritability (h2) and fitness costs associated with resistance to FPF have not yet been assessed with A. craccivora. In this study, A. craccivora showed the potential to develop resistance to FPF under continuous selection, with an overall mean estimated h2 of resistance of 0.21. Results of fitness costs showed no differences in the developmental time (except for N2 and N3), longevity, fecundity, adult pre-reproductive period (APRP), total pre-reproductive period (TPRP), and oviposition of the FPF-R strain compared to the S-strain. In contrast, all population growth parameters, including the growth reproductive rate (GRR), net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), mean generation time (T), and doubling time (DT), were significantly lower in the FPF-R strain than in the S-strain. Fitness cost studies revealed that resistance to FPF decreased the relative fitness of the FPF-R strain to 0.76 compared with that of the S-strain. The estimation of realized heritable h2 and identification of resistance fitness costs provide a basis for designing insecticide resistance management (IRM) programs to sustain susceptibility in insect populations.

Severe outcomes among adults with TB during COVID-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted strict public health measures to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission, potentially interrupting TB programmes in the Western Cape, South Africa. We conducted a retrospective cohort study, estimating changes in new TB case rates and risk of death during TB-specific admissions within 6 months of TB first evidence, during the pre-pandemic (1 January 2019-26 March 2020) and after the implementation of public health and social measures (PHSM) periods (26 March 2020-30 September 2021), based on PHSM strictness. We used interrupted time series and logistic regression models to adjust for key characteristics. We found an average 22% reduction (95% CI 19-25) in monthly TB cases during the entire PHSM implementation period. Additionally, the risk of death during TB-specific admissions increased, with the adjusted odds ratio ranging across PHSM levels from 1.36 (95% CI 1.17-1.57) on Level 1 to 1.44 (95% CI 1.16-1.79) on Level 2 compared with the pre-pandemic period. There was a decline in the number of diagnosed TB cases and an increased risk of severe outcomes from 26 March 2020 to 30 September 2021 in the Western Cape. TB programme recovery strategies must be prioritised, and TB management programmes must be integrated into future pandemic responses.

The moderating role of sex in the relationship between cannabis use treatment admission profile and treatment processes and outcomes: A gender perspective

BackgroundGender-specific interventions are crucial in addressing substance use disorders —particularly cannabis use disorder — as they allow for tailored therapeutic approaches and increase the likelihood of successful outcomes. However, differences in therapeutic processes and outcomes between males and females are often not observed, making the prognosis and development of such interventions more difficult. ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine the moderating role of sex in the relationship between treatment admission profile characterized by indicators of cannabis use and sociodemographic sources of gender inequality (e.g., employment status) and adherence and outcome at discharge. MethodA multicentric retrospective observational study was conducted with a sample of 3,814 outpatients diagnosed with cannabis use disorder. Electronic health records were used for data analysis. ResultsThe interaction between sex and the number of children, as well as pre-treatment cannabis use, predicted lower treatment adherence, particularly among females. Additionally, the interaction between sex and the number of children predicted outcomes at discharge, with females showing a higher likelihood of dropout compared to males. Discussion and conclusionEnhanced comprehensive treatment with intensified contingency management programs should be prioritized for females (especially those with children) who have consumed cannabis in the month before treatment. Adopting a treatment policy framework incorporating sex/gender-sensitive therapist training and evaluative measures is essential for optimizing treatment outcomes for all patients.

A pilot trial of CRESCENT in a large academic healthcare system: A CaReEcoSystem primary Care Embedded demeNtia Treatment

ObjectiveThe prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and related dementias is escalating, with substantial societal and economic impact. Existing dementia care is often inadequate due to underdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, and insufficient resources, especially for caregivers. Behavioral symptoms of dementia further complicate care, contributing to negative outcomes. Collaborative care programs show promise, yet resource-intensive models can be challenging to scale. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of CRESCENT (CaReEcoSystem primary Care Embedded dementia Treatment), an adaptation of the CareEcosystem intervention, providing dementia care training to nurse care managers in a primary care setting. DesignEmbedded pilot cluster randomized controlled study. ParticipantsThe thirty nurse care managers enrolled in the trial had 393 patients with an ICD-10 diagnosis code consistent with dementia on their panels, 206 patients corresponding to the 15 intervention nurses and 187 patients corresponding to the 15 control nurses. MeasurementsPrimary outcome: Feasibility of capturing ED utilization using Medicare claims data and of implementing the intervention in a care management program. Secondary outcomes: ED use and change in caregiver distress (via survey) between baseline and 6-month follow-up using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) Distress scale. ResultsWe demonstrated the feasibility of collecting ED visit data through Medicare claims and of implementing the intervention in a busy care management program. In the 6-month follow-up, there were no changes in ED visits post-intervention. A non-significant 2.7-point greater reduction in caregiver distress among caregivers of PWD in the intervention cohort was observed. ConclusionA dementia care coordination program can be integrated into a care management program. Future trials will explore the effectiveness of CRESCENT in a fully powered clinical trial, aiming to address the rising dementia epidemic and improve dementia-informed care in healthcare systems.

Heavy rainfall and moisture susceptibility of pavement foundation: A case study coupling finite element method and MnROAD moisture monitoring data

The Midwest region, including Minnesota, has been experiencing increased heavy precipitation events due to climate change, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is currently investigating the effect of climate change on pavement foundation and other transportation assets. As part of this effort, a study was conducted to investigate the impact of heavy rainfall on pavement foundation performance by focusing on moisture dynamics and resilient modulus changes in the pavement base layer. This study is aimed at understanding the adverse effects of heavy rainfall on moisture fluxes within pavement foundation and corresponding stiffness of the base aggregate layer. A two-step approach was adopted for predicting changes in saturation when estimating corresponding resilient modulus values using the resilient modulus prediction equation employed in AASHTOWare Pavement Mechanistic-Empirical (ME) Design. PLAXIS 3D, a finite-element analysis tool, was utilized to simulate the movement of moisture within the pavement layers under varying heavy rainfall scenarios. By incorporating predicted saturation from PLAXIS 3D simulations into the Pavement ME equation, corresponding resilient modulus values were estimated for the base layer. To ensure its accuracy and reliability, the model was validated using field sensor data from the MnROAD facility. Multiple linear regression models were developed to provide a means for estimating resilient modulus changes due to heavy rainfall. This study highlights the importance of considering moisture effects in pavement design and maintenance in regions prone to heavy rainfall events, and findings can be used by transportation agencies as part of their transportation/geotechnical asset management programs.

The Aspire Social Impact Bond: How social impact bond financing can promote positive social and economic outcomes

AbstractFinancing human service delivery through social impact bonds (SIBs) is the subject of some critical commentary in the academic literature, but this tends to be largely theoretical rather than empirically based. This paper presents empirical evidence of how SIB financing can promote positive social and economic outcomes for governments, not‐for‐profit providers, individual service beneficiaries and society more broadly. The paper presents some of the results of an evaluation of the Aspire SIB, which financed an innovative intensive case management program providing housing and wraparound supports over a 3‐year period for people experiencing chronic homelessness. Aspire participants experienced significantly improved outcomes and decreased service needs, delivering downstream cost savings across several areas of government service delivery. This paper describes how the SIB financing mechanism underpinned the success of Aspire by promoting flexible, collaborative, outcome‐focussed and data‐informed responses to a challenging, multi‐faceted social problem.

Bridging the Gap: The Impact of Bowel Management Programs on Daily Life in Pediatric Colorectal Disease

Bridging the Gap: The Impact of Bowel Management Programs on Daily Life in Pediatric Colorectal Disease

Real-World Outcomes of Graft-versus-Host Disease after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Japan: Retrospective Analysis of the Transplant Registry Unified Management Program Registry

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is an important therapeutic option for patients with hematological malignancies. However, the development of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after allo-HSCT remains a challenge. Although systemic steroid therapy is the established first-line therapy for acute GVHD (aGVHD) and chronic GVHD (cGVHD), many patients are unresponsive or resistant to corticosteroid therapy, and the response is insufficient. To evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients who developed aGVHD and cGVHD after allo-HSCT. This noninterventional, retrospective study used large national registry data from the Transplant Registry Unified Management Program. The study included 29,690 patients with hematological diseases who underwent their first allo-HSCT between January 2010 and December 2019. The primary endpoints of this study were the cumulative incidence of aGVHD and cGVHD. The secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and non-relapse mortality (NRM) of patients with aGVHD and cGVHD and OS and NRM of patients who received second-line therapy for aGVHD. Of 29,690 patients who underwent allo-HSCT, 2,807, 6,167, 10,556, 774, and 9,339 patients received related bone marrow (RBM), related peripheral blood (RPB), unrelated bone marrow, unrelated peripheral blood (UPB), and unrelated cord blood, respectively. The cumulative incidence of aGVHD (grades II-IV) at 100 days was high after the related and unrelated mismatched transplantation. Furthermore, response rate for the first- and second-line therapy for aGVHD was low in the RBM/RPB-mismatched (59.6%/61.6%) and UPB-mismatched subgroup (45.5%), respectively. The 3-year NRM in patients with aGVHD was high in the RPB and UPB mismatched subgroups (37.9% and 31.2%, respectively). Developing a novel treatment for steroid-refractory aGVHD is necessary to improve transplant outcomes, particularly for patients undergoing HLA-mismatched transplantation.

Effects of Melia azedarach extract on demographic and biochemical characteristics of the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae

The cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Aphididae: Hemiptera) a destructive aphid, is native to Europe and is now found in many other parts of the world. Currently, one of the main problems of Iranian cabbage growers is the significant damage caused by this pest. Also, due to the fresh eating of cabbage, it is necessary to use non-chemical methods to control the pests. Our bioassay tests showed that Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) fruit extract showed high toxicity to cabbage aphid. In this study, sublethal effects of M. azedarach extract was investigated on some demographic and biochemical properties of B. brassicae. The results showed that the sublethal concentrations (LC10 and LC20) and LC50 values were 0.68, 1.16, and 3.42 μg/ml, respectively. Compared to the control, sublethal concentrations of insecticide significantly decreased the gross reproductive rate (GRR), net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), finite rate of increase (λ), intrinsic rate of birth (b), intrinsic rate of death (d), weekly growth rate (rw), reproductive rate and adult longevity of the pest. Meanwhile, the mean generation time (T) and population doubling time (DT) of this aphid increased significantly. Additionally, sublethal doses of insecticide reduced the energy reserves of the pest such as carbohydrate, protein and lipid content compared to the controls. In addition to modify the pH, this extract also changed the distribution and concentration of sodium and potassium ions in haemolymph. Therefore, sublethal concentrations of M. Azedarach fruit extract can be used in the management program of B. brassicae.

Promiscuous potato: elucidating genetic identity and the complex genetic relationships of a cultivated potato germplasm collection.

A total of 3,860 accessions from the global in trust clonal potato germplasm collection w3ere genotyped with the Illumina Infinium SolCAP V2 12K potato SNP array to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure within the potato germplasm collection. Diploid, triploid, tetraploid, and pentaploid accessions were included representing the cultivated potato taxa. Heterozygosity ranged from 9.7% to 66.6% increasing with ploidy level with an average heterozygosity of 33.5%. Identity, relatedness, and ancestry were evaluated using hierarchal clustering and model-based Bayesian admixture analyses. Errors in genetic identity were revealed in a side-by-side comparison of in vitro clonal material with the original mother plants revealing mistakes putatively occurring during decades of processing and handling. A phylogeny was constructed to evaluate inter- and intraspecific relationships which together with a STRUCTURE analysis supported both commonly used treatments of potato taxonomy. Accessions generally clustered based on taxonomic and ploidy classifications with some exceptions but did not consistently cluster by geographic origin. STRUCTURE analysis identified putative hybrids and suggested six genetic clusters in the cultivated potato collection with extensive gene flow occurring among the potato populations, implying most populations readily shared alleles and that introgression is common in potato. Solanum tuberosum subsp. andigena (ADG) and S. curtilobum (CUR) displayed significant admixture. ADG likely has extensive admixture due to its broad geographic distribution. Solanum phureja (PHU), Solanum chaucha (CHA)/Solanum stenotomum subsp. stenotomum (STN), and Solanum tuberosum subsp. tuberosum (TBR) populations had less admixture from an accession/population perspective relative to the species evaluated. A core and mini core subset from the genebank material was also constructed. SNP genotyping was also carried out on 745 accessions from the Seed Savers potato collection which confirmed no genetic duplication between the two potato collections, suggesting that the collections hold very different genetic resources of potato. The Infinium SNP Potato Array is a powerful tool that can provide diversity assessments, fingerprint genebank accessions for quality management programs, use in research and breeding, and provide insights into the complex genetic structure and hybrid origin of the diversity present in potato genetic resource collections.

More than sport: A social-identity intervention to support transitions out of elite sport

Elite athletes often make large personal sacrifices to pursue excellence, but there is insufficient support for them when they leave elite sport. Identity loss is central to athletes’ transition trajectories and hence the management of identity change is a crucial area for support. The More Than Sport (MTS) program is a novel digital intervention that aims to provide this support—helping athletes manage identity change in the process of leaving elite sport. The present research aims to study elite athletes’ experiences with the MTS program and their perceptions of its usefulness in managing the transition away from elite sport. We undertook a qualitative study with athletes (N = 25) from three countries (the United Kingdom, Australia and Belgium) using reflexive thematic analysis to explore their experiences of the program and their feedback on program content. We identified three key themes and eight subthemes. The first key theme was Value of the Program, and this was underpinned by four sub-themes that centred on Program importance and novelty, how Positive and confronting experiences afford insight, the Value of developing shared understanding, and Realising the value of social groups. The second key theme was Engagement with Program Elements and here participants commented on Program content and Delivery format. The final key theme was Time and Place for Identity Management Programs which included the sub-themes of Optimal timing and Additional program beneficiaries. Overall, the results highlight the value of MTS specifically, and identity management efforts more broadly, to help elite athletes adjust successfully to life beyond sport.

Regional Disparities in Atrial Fibrillation Management: an IMPACT AF Substudy

BackgroundIn rural regions, atrial fibrillation (AF) management is predominately performed by local primary care professionals (PCP). Prior work has suggested a disparity in outcomes in AF for those patients living in a rural location. MethodsThis was a post-hoc analysis of the cluster randomized trial Integrated Management Program Advancing Community Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation (IMPACT-AF) which compared a clinical decision support system (CDSS) to standard of care. Patients were classified as living in a rural (population <10,000) or urban location. The outcomes were: AF-related emergency department (ED) visits, unplanned cardiovascular (CV) hospitalizations, AF-related referrals and guideline adherence for AF treatment. Results1133 patients were enrolled from 2016-2018; 54.1% (n=613) were classified as rural. There were no differences in age (mean 72±9.63 vs 72.5±10.42 years) or CHADS2 score (mean 2.1±1.36 vs 2.16±1.34). Referral rates to general internists were higher in the rural population (13.4% vs 3.9%, p<0.001), whereas cardiology referrals were higher in the urban population (10% vs 15%, p=0.0098). At 12 months, no difference in the composite outcome of AF-related ED visits and CV hospitalizations was seen. There were fewer recurrent AF-related ED visits and CV hospitalizations in the urban group (incidence rate ratio 0.65 (95%CI (0.44,0.95), p=0.0262). Guideline adherence was similar between rural (3.7± 1.2) and urban (3.6±1.2) (p=0.11) groups. ConclusionAF patients in rural locations had higher rates of recurrent AF-related ED visits and unplanned CV hospitalizations. Further research to optimize AF-related outcomes is needed to ensure equitable delivery of care to all Canadians irrespective of geography.

Development, Validation, and feasibility of Integrated Yoga module on Anidra (Insomnia)

Background: Insomnia is described as "a complaint of trouble beginning or maintaining sleep associated with daily effects that are not attributed to environmental factors or insufficient chances to sleep." According to the study, Yoga was shown to be safe and effective in improving sleep for individuals experiencing insomnia (Anidra). In this study, an Integrated Yoga Module (IYM) was specifically designed to manage Anidra (Insomnia). Method: The IYM was designed following a thorough review of classical yoga texts and prior research. Twenty-five yoga experts meeting the inclusion criteria were selected to validate the content of the IYM. The IYM comprised a total of 42 yoga practices, with each practice undergoing discussion and evaluation, categorized as (1) effective, (2) useful but less effective, or (3) not effective. The Content Validity Ratio (CVR) was calculated using Lawshe's formula. The feasibility of the IYM was assessed by experts using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). To evaluate the feasibility of the intervention, we applied the developed program to 40 participants (20 in each group) in control and experimental groups for 45 days, with sessions conducted five days a week. Result: Data analysis revealed that, among the 22 IYM practices, 17 demonstrated significant content validity with a CVR exceeding the 0.44 cut-off, as determined by Lawshe's formula. Conversely, five yoga practices fell below the 0.44 CVR and were therefore rejected. Moreover, a significant improvement in sleep quality was observed in the experimental group. Conclusion: The yoga module designed and validated for the management of insomnia or A nidra is acknowledged as well accepted with good content validity and an efficacious program for insomnia management.

Study on Overseas Expansion Strategies for Small and Medium-Sized Korean Construction Companies Using PEST Analysis

The purpose of this study is to research overseas expansion strategies for small and medium-sized construction companies(SMCCs) in South Korea. The research methodology employs PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis within the construction industry. Findings suggest increased investment in research and development, adoption of eco-friendly technologies, and localization strategies. By enhancing competitiveness through advanced technology adoption and strengthening sustainable practices aligned with global standards, firms can mitigate political and economic risks. Policy implications include collaboration with government and relevant agencies to support Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects, provide financial assistance, manage risks, and establish integrated information platforms. Moreover, enhancing capabilities through education and consulting programs in technology, law, finance, and risk management prepares firms for international expansion. This study offers specific solutions to Korean small and medium-sized construction companies, emphasizing enhanced policy support to successfully pursue expansion and growth opportunities in the global market.

A Study on the Development of Anger Management Program for working women in their 60s and Exploration of Participation Experience: Focusing on 「Bohyeonhaengwonpum」 of Avatamsaka Sūtra

The purpose of this study is to develop a program based on 「Bohyeonhaengwonpum」 of Avatamsaka Sūtra to reduce the anger of working women in their 60s and explore their participation experiences. For this purpose, a program for anger reduction based on 「Bohyeonhaengwonpum」 was developed, and participants who participated in the program were questioned and analyzed about their participation experience. The results of this study are as follows. First, a program for anger management based on 「Bohyeonhaengwonpum」 was planned for women in their 60s who experience psychological difficulties such as anger, depression, worry, and irritation. The program consists of a total of seven sessions conducted once a week, each lasting about 90 minutes. The themes for each session are as follows: 1st session - Experiencing the power of prayer, 2nd session - Gratitude and repentance, 3rd session - Cultivating virtues and principles, 4th session - Cleansing the mind and body, 5th session - Seeking inner peace, 6th session - Integrating prayer and meditation, and 7th session - Conclusion of the program. Second, the analysis of the participants' participation experience revealed that they expressed their wishes for managing anger at work, happiness for their families, and comfort and well-being for the people they meet at work. This study is significant in providing foundational data for the development of a customized anger management program for working women in their 60s.

Brain gain and country's resilience: A dependency analysis exemplified by OECD countries

Research background: In the light of growing demand for highly skilled workers, driven by rapid changes in the labour market and business environment, the ability to attract the talented determines not only business performance, but also macroeconomic development prospects. This stimulates national governments to create positive conditions for the development and use of the human capital of migrants. One of the most important factors of brain gain can be country stability as a sign of a comfortable environment for the realisation of intellectual potential. Purpose of the article: The study aims to investigate the links between the factors of country’s resilience and brain gain, including its partial indicators. Methods: For a comprehensive assessment, migration indicators were used by categories of talented migrants: highly educated workers, foreign entrepreneurs, university students and start-up founders that we integrated into an integral index of intellectual migration. The data was collected for OECD countries for 2023. The authors used the methods of statistical and correlation-regression analysis, economic-mathematical modelling in the GRETL software environment. Findings &amp; value added: Research has shown that the components of country’s resilience (especially Economic resilience and Supply chain) have a positive effect on brain gain. Considering the partial indicators of brain gain, it is found that resilience in the country of destination has the greatest influence on the migration decisions of highly educated workers and foreign entrepreneurs, i.e. migrants with a positive experience of economic activity and entrepreneurial capital, which, in turn, strengthens the resilience and competitiveness of countries. Such conclusions are important for the improvement of brain gain management programs in terms of the development of the environment for the attraction and retention of talents.

An analysis of the impact on total cost of care within a pharmacist‐led comprehensive medication management program

AbstractIntroductionThe rise in health care expenditures continues to pose a significant concern regarding the longevity of the current health care system design. The literature has demonstrated a positive return on investment (ROI) when pharmacists perform medication management services. Building upon positive ROI literature, a clinically integrated network (CIN) in Michigan developed an approach to patient targeting for comprehensive medication management (CMM) services in existing alternative payment model (APM) Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and Commercial contracts.ObjectivesThe primary objective of this study was to examine the real‐world impact of an advanced ambulatory care pharmacy model, inclusive of embedded clinic‐based ambulatory pharmacists, centralized ambulatory pharmacists, centralized population health pharmacists, and specially trained pharmacy technicians, on the total cost of care (TCOC) within a large integrated health system.MethodsFor CMM dates of service occurring in calendar year 2022, pharmacy and medical claims were evaluated during the 6‐month period prior to and following the initial CMM patient encounter. Upon completion of the study period, data were evaluated to assess TCOC and utilization trends for the study population.ResultsStatistically significant differences in median TCOC ($1427.84, p &lt; 0.001), prescription drug costs ($222.82, p &lt; 0.001), and medical costs ($462.26, p &lt; 0.001) were observed between the pre‐CMM and post‐CMM timeframes for the study population. A 16% reduction in hospital admissions was observed between the pre‐CMM and post‐CMM timeframes.DiscussionThis study further supports that pharmacist intervention as part of a CMM program can favorably affect health care costs. Criteria such as a population's benchmark costs and utilization, insurance product types, and core conditions present can help determine whether expanding or initiating CMM services could be beneficial in improving care and health care costs.

La emergencia de la formación en gestión cultural en Chile

This article originates from a review of the state of the art of cultural management training in Chile carried out by the author as part of his doctoral research. Its main objective is to analyze, understand and explain the factors that have influenced the evolution of a training and academic field dedicated to cultural management in Chile, recognizing that this process is still in development. To achieve this purpose, a bibliographic review has been carried out that addresses various aspects, such as the emergence of cultural management, the process of professionalization in this field, as well as the emergence of training programs in cultural management at the global level and, particularly, in the Chilean context, where the relevant cultural agents that allowed its emergence are analyzed. The results of this study provide an explanatory framework for the emergence of university education in cultural management in Chile, configured from the interaction of sociocultural, political, economic and cognitive factors that have taken place in the historical context characterized by the advance of capitalism worldwide and the globalization process, especially during the last decades of the twentieth century, and that continue to influence today.

Optimizing Corn Crop Protection: The First Sampling Plan for Controlling Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae).

Corn (Zea mays) is the most widely planted crop in the world. Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) is currently a primary corn pest. The starting point for the development of pest control decision-making systems is the determination of a conventional sampling plan. Therefore, this study aimed to determine a practical conventional sampling plan for D. maidis in corn crops. Insect density was evaluated in 28 commercial fields. Subsequently, D. maidis densities were sampled from fields ranging from 1 to 100 ha. Insect density conformed to a negative binomial distribution in 89.29% of the fields. The insect densities determined using the sampling plan had a low error rate (up to 15%). Sampling time and costs ranged from 2.06 to 39.45 min/ha and 0.09 to 1.81 USD/ha for fields of 1-100 ha, respectively. These results provide the first precise and representative conventional sampling plan for scouting D. maidis adults grown in corn fields. Therefore, the conventional sampling plan for D. maidis determined in this study is practical and can be incorporated into integrated pest management programs for corn crops owing to its representativeness, precision, speed, and low cost.