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De Mesmaeker M, Tran D, Verbeecke V, Ameye F, Dubaere P, Strobbe S, Van Der Straeten D, De Steur H. Belgian dietitians' knowledge, perceptions and willingness-to-recommend of genetically modified food and organisms. J Hum Nutr Diet 2024; 37:142-154. [PMID: 37751474 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietitians play a critical role in the public's relationship with food and are often overlooked as an important stakeholder group in the general debate about sustainable food. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are one type of modern food source that could contribute to a more sustainable food system. This case study is the first to examine the knowledge, perception and willingness-to-recommend (WTR) genetically modified (GM) foods by dietitians in Europe. METHODS An online survey was addressed to all members of the Flemish Association of Dietitians (Belgium) in 2021, resulting in a sample of 98 valid responses. Multivariate linear regression included sociodemographic, knowledge, and attitudinal factors as the independent variables to explain dietitians' WTR. RESULTS Flemish dietitians had limited knowledge of GMOs; only about half of the GM questions were answered correctly. Most dietitians (53%-76%) would recommend GMOs with positive effects on human nutrition or sustainability, whereas few dietitians (19%-27%) would recommend other GMO applications. Trust in GMO information sources and perceived GM benefits significantly influenced a positive WTR of GM foods. Predominant negative information about GM foods was significantly associated with dietitians' low trust and WTR such foods. CONCLUSIONS Countering the predominantly negative portrayal with more neutral and factual information could improve trust, which in turn could positively influence dietitians' perceptions towards GMOs. By further examining the knowledge and perception of dietitians worldwide GMOs and gene-edited products, new insights could be could gathered into the positioning of this underexposed stakeholder group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Duc Tran
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Division of Agri-Food Marketing and Chain Management, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vincent Verbeecke
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Florien Ameye
- Department of Health Sciences, Odisee University College, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pauline Dubaere
- Department of Health Sciences, Odisee University College, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Simon Strobbe
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | | | - Hans De Steur
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Division of Agri-Food Marketing and Chain Management, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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2
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Kolodinsky J, Rose N, Danielsen J. U.S. consumer support for genetically modified foods: Time trends and assessments of four GM attributes. GM CROPS & FOOD 2023; 14:1-13. [PMID: 37979149 PMCID: PMC10761062 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2023.2278683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
There is a large literature about consumer acceptance of GM foods dating back almost three decades, but there are fewer studies that investigate how support for specific GM attributes contribute to general support for novel plant technologies. In addition, there is little information on how support has changed over time. Using survey data from 2018 to 2023 in a U.S. State (Vermont) (n = 3101), we analyze changes in support for a variety of GM attributes over time. There are three major findings. First, there is movement toward neutrality in support for various GM attributes, but opposition continues. Second, there is variability in support for different GM attributes. People are most supportive (least opposed) to GM attributes that improve flora (plant health or drought tolerance), and most opposed (least supportive) of attributes that impact fauna (specifically fish). Third, multivariate regression reveals that assessments of individual GM attributes contribute to levels of overall support of the use of GM technologies in agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Kolodinsky
- Department of Community Development and Applied Economics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Nick Rose
- School of Natural Health Arts and Sciences, Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA, USA
| | - Julia Danielsen
- Community Development and Applied Economics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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3
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Brinkmann L, Baumann F, Bonnefon JF, Derex M, Müller TF, Nussberger AM, Czaplicka A, Acerbi A, Griffiths TL, Henrich J, Leibo JZ, McElreath R, Oudeyer PY, Stray J, Rahwan I. Machine culture. Nat Hum Behav 2023; 7:1855-1868. [PMID: 37985914 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01742-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The ability of humans to create and disseminate culture is often credited as the single most important factor of our success as a species. In this Perspective, we explore the notion of 'machine culture', culture mediated or generated by machines. We argue that intelligent machines simultaneously transform the cultural evolutionary processes of variation, transmission and selection. Recommender algorithms are altering social learning dynamics. Chatbots are forming a new mode of cultural transmission, serving as cultural models. Furthermore, intelligent machines are evolving as contributors in generating cultural traits-from game strategies and visual art to scientific results. We provide a conceptual framework for studying the present and anticipated future impact of machines on cultural evolution, and present a research agenda for the study of machine culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levin Brinkmann
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Fabian Baumann
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Maxime Derex
- Toulouse School of Economics, Toulouse, France
- Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Thomas F Müller
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne-Marie Nussberger
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Czaplicka
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alberto Acerbi
- Department of Sociology and Social Research, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Thomas L Griffiths
- Department of Psychology and Department of Computer Science, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Joseph Henrich
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Richard McElreath
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Jonathan Stray
- Center for Human-Compatible Artificial Intelligence, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Iyad Rahwan
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.
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4
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Nagaya K, Shimizu H. Effects of graphical presentation of benefits on cognitive judgments induced by affect heuristic: Focusing on the acceptance of genetically modified foods. Appetite 2023; 182:106450. [PMID: 36632936 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Genetically modified (GM) foods have been assumed to be seen through intuitive and affective routes (i.e., affect heuristics) rather than analytical and deliberative routes. We examined the impact of the graphical presentation of benefits derived from GM or conventionally bred foods on the acceptance of these varieties. In the two experiments (n = 266 for study 1 and n = 402 for study 2), no differences emerged in the estimation of farmers' benefits resulting from the introduction of improved varieties by the type of improvement. However, there were statistically significant differences in the magnitude of risk and the degree of acceptance of the improved varieties. Therefore, despite presenting identical benefits as a graphical figure, GM foods were consistently evaluated as providing higher risk and were less frequently accepted than conventionally bred foods. These results suggest that while the graphical presentation of benefits may promote comprehension of some advantages of the introduction of GM varieties, this may not lead to acceptance from the consumer's point of view. Based on the current findings, as well as previous studies on trust in risk managers, we discuss the specific factors that might promote acceptance of GM products.
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5
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Paudel B, Kolady D, Just D, Ishaq M. Effect of information and innovator reputation on consumers’ willingness to pay for genome-edited foods. Food Qual Prefer 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2023.104825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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6
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Blancke S. Nothing about collective irrationalities makes sense except in the light of cooperation. PHILOSOPHICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/09515089.2023.2169602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefaan Blancke
- Tilburg Center for Moral Philosophy, Epistemology and Philosophy of Science, Department of Philosophy, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
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7
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Trump B, Cummings C, Klasa K, Galaitsi S, Linkov I. Governing biotechnology to provide safety and security and address ethical, legal, and social implications. Front Genet 2023; 13:1052371. [PMID: 36712887 PMCID: PMC9873990 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1052371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of biotechnology has produced a wide variety of materials and products which are rapidly entering the commercial marketplace. While many developments promise revolutionary benefits, some of them pose uncertain or largely untested risks and may spur debate, consternation, and outrage from individuals and groups who may be affected by their development and use. In this paper we show that the success of any advanced genetic development and usage requires that the creators establish technical soundness, ensure safety and security, and transparently represent the product's ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI). We further identify how failures to address ELSI can manifest as significant roadblocks to product acceptance and adoption and advocate for use of the "safety-by-design" governance philosophy. This approach requires addressing risk and ELSI needs early and often in the technology development process to support innovation while providing security and safety for workers, the public, and the broader environment. This paper identifies and evaluates major ELSI challenges and perspectives to suggest a methodology for implementing safety-by-design in a manner consistent with local institutions and politics. We anticipate the need for safety-by-design approach to grow and permeate biotechnology governance structures as the field expands in scientific and technological complexity, increases in public attention and prominence, and further impacts human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Trump
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States
| | - Christopher Cummings
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States,Genetic Engineering and Society, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States,Gene Edited Foods Project, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States,*Correspondence: Christopher Cummings,
| | - Kasia Klasa
- Department of Healthcare Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stephanie Galaitsi
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States
| | - Igor Linkov
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States,Department of Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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8
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Ewa WG, Agata T, Milica P, Anna B, Dennis E, Nick V, Godelieve G, Selim C, Naghmeh A, Tomasz T. Public perception of plant gene technologies worldwide in the light of food security. GM CROPS & FOOD 2022; 13:218-241. [PMID: 35996854 PMCID: PMC9415543 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2022.2111946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Achieving global food security is becoming increasingly challenging and many stakeholders around the world are searching for new ways to reach this demanding goal. Here we demonstrate examples of genetically modified and genome edited plants introduced to the market in different world regions. Transgenic crops are regulated based on the characteristics of the product in many countries including the United States and Canada, while the European Union, India, China and others regulate process-based i.e. on how the product was made. We also present the public perception of state-of-the-art plant gene technologies in different regions of the world in the past 20 years. The results of literature analysis show that the public in Europe and North America is more familiar with the notion of genome editing and genetically modified organisms than the public in other world regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tyczewska Agata
- Laboratory of Animal Model Organisms, Institute of Biorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Beniermann Anna
- Biology Education, Institute of Biology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eriksson Dennis
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
- Department of Biotechnology, INN University, 2318 Hamar, Norway
| | - Vangheluwe Nick
- Euroseeds, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, (Technologiepark 71), Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Cetiner Selim
- The Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Turkey
| | - Abiri Naghmeh
- The Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Turkey
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9
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Blancke S, Boudry M. "Trust Me, I'm a Scientist": How Philosophy of Science Can Help Explain Why Science Deserves Primacy in Dealing with Societal Problems. SCIENCE & EDUCATION 2022; 31:1141-1154. [PMID: 35990225 PMCID: PMC9382006 DOI: 10.1007/s11191-022-00373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Modern democratic societies tend to appeal to the authority of science when dealing with important challenges and solving their problems. Nevertheless, distrust in science remains widespread among the public, and, as a result, scientific voices are often ignored or discarded in favour of other perspectives. Though superficially "democratic", such a demotion of science in fact hinders democratic societies in effectively tackling their problems. Worryingly, some philosophers have provided ammunition to this distrust and scepticism of science. They either portray science as an institution that has unrightfully seized political power, or they claim that science constitutes only one voice among many and that scientists should know their proper place in our societies. As philosophers of science, we believe that it is potentially dangerous to undermine trust in science in this way. Instead, we believe that philosophers should help people to understand why science, even though it is far from perfect, deserves our trust and its special standing in modern societies. In this paper, we outline what such an explanation may look like from a naturalistic and pragmatic perspective, and we discuss the implications for the role of philosophy of science in science education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefaan Blancke
- Tilburg Center for Moral Philosophy, Epistemology and Philosophy of Science (TiLPS), Department of Philosophy, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Maarten Boudry
- Department of Philosophy and Moral Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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10
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Choi SY, Lee YJ, Seo HU, Kim JH, Jang CS. Physio-biochemical and molecular characterization of a rice drought-insensitive TILLING line 1 (ditl1) mutant. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2022; 174:e13718. [PMID: 35587520 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Drought stress is a major abiotic stress that limits rice yield. Therefore, the development of new varieties tolerant to drought stress is a high priority in breeding programs. In this study, 150 rice M10 mutant lines, previously developed using gamma-ray irradiation, were used, and a drought-insensitive rice mutant (ditl1) was selected by drought stress screening. The ditl1 mutant exhibited significantly decreased water loss, leaf curling, and H2 O2 accumulation under drought stress. Chlorophyll leaching assay and toluidine blue staining suggested lower cuticle permeability in ditl1 mutants than in wild-type (WT) plants. In addition, transmission electron microscopy revealed that ditl1 plants accumulated more cuticular wax on the epidermal surface. Whole-genome resequencing analysis suggested that the deletion of a single nucleotide on the LOC_Os05g48260 gene, a putative ortholog of WSD1 (wax ester synthase/diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase in Arabidopsis), maybe be the gene responsible for the drought insensitive phenotype of ditl1. The ditl1 mutant will be a valuable breeding resource for developing drought stress tolerant rice cultivar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Young Choi
- Plant Genomics Laboratory, Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Jin Lee
- Agriculture and Life Sciences Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Ung Seo
- Plant Genomics Laboratory, Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Ho Kim
- Plant Genomics Laboratory, Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol Seong Jang
- Plant Genomics Laboratory, Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
- Agriculture and Life Sciences Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
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11
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Scaling up interactive argumentation by providing counterarguments with a chatbot. Nat Hum Behav 2022; 6:579-592. [DOI: 10.1038/s41562-021-01271-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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12
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Derex M. Human cumulative culture and the exploitation of natural phenomena. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20200311. [PMID: 34894732 PMCID: PMC8666902 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cumulative cultural evolution (CCE)-defined as the process by which beneficial modifications are culturally transmitted and progressively accumulated over time-has long been argued to underlie the unparalleled diversity and complexity of human culture. In this paper, I argue that not just any kind of cultural accumulation will give rise to human-like culture. Rather, I suggest that human CCE depends on the gradual exploitation of natural phenomena, which are features of our environment that, through the laws of physics, chemistry or biology, generate reliable effects which can be exploited for a purpose. I argue that CCE comprises two distinct processes: optimizing cultural traits that exploit a given set of natural phenomena (Type I CCE) and expanding the set of natural phenomena we exploit (Type II CCE). I argue that the most critical features of human CCE, including its open-ended dynamic, stems from Type II CCE. Throughout the paper, I contrast the two processes and discuss their respective socio-cognitive requirements. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'The emergence of collective knowledge and cumulative culture in animals, humans and machines'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Derex
- CNRS, Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse, University of Toulouse 1 Capitole, France
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13
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García‐Arch J, Ballestero‐Arnau M, Pérez Hoyas L, Giaiotti F. Disproven but still believed: the role of information and
IIDD
in the prediction of topic‐related pseudoscience acceptance. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. García‐Arch
- Department of Cognition, Development and Educational Psychology. Faculty of Psychology University of Barcelona; Pg. Vall d'Hebrón Barcelona Spain
- Cognition and Brain Plasticity Group Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, Hospitalet de Llobregat Spain
- Institute of Neurosciences University of Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - M. Ballestero‐Arnau
- Department of Cognition, Development and Educational Psychology. Faculty of Psychology University of Barcelona; Pg. Vall d'Hebrón Barcelona Spain
- Cognition and Brain Plasticity Group Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research, Hospitalet de Llobregat Spain
- Institute of Neurosciences University of Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - L. Pérez Hoyas
- Barcelona Graduate School of Economics Pompeu Fabra University Barcelona Spain
| | - F. Giaiotti
- Department of Cognition, Development and Educational Psychology. Faculty of Psychology University of Barcelona; Pg. Vall d'Hebrón Barcelona Spain
- Department of Life Sciences University of Trieste Trieste Italy
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14
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Levi S. Living standards shape individual attitudes on genetically modified food around the world. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2021.104371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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15
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St. Leger RJ. From the Lab to the Last Mile: Deploying Transgenic Approaches Against Mosquitoes. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2021.804066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ingenious exploitation of transgenic approaches to produce malaria resistant or sterile mosquitoes, or hypervirulent mosquito pathogens, has produced many potential solutions to vector borne diseases. However, in spite of technological feasibility, it has not been determined how well these new methods will work, and how they should be tested and regulated. Some self-limiting transgenic fungal pathogens and mosquitoes are almost field ready, and may be easier to regulate than self-sustaining strategies. However, they require repeat sales and so must show business viability; low-cost mass production is just one of a number of technical constraints that are sometimes treated as an afterthought in technology deployment. No transgenic self-sustaining approach to anopheline control has ever been deployed because of unresolved ethical, social and regulatory issues. These overlapping issues include: 1) the transparency challenge, which requires public discourse, particularly in Africa where releases are proposed, to determine what society is willing to risk given the potential benefits; 2) the transboundary challenge, self-sustaining mosquitoes or pathogens are potentially capable of crossing national boundaries and irreversibly altering ecosystems, and 3) the risk assessment challenge. The polarized debate as to whether these technologies will ever be used to save lives is ongoing; they will founder without a political answer as to how do we interpret the precautionary principle, as exemplified in the Cartagena protocol, in the global context of technological changes.
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Peach DA, Almond M, Ko E, Meraj S, Gries R, Gries G. Cheese and cheese infusions: ecological traps for mosquitoes and spotted wing Drosophila. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2021; 77:5599-5607. [PMID: 34402165 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Harnessing insect ecology for insect control is an innovative concept that seeks to exploit, among others, insect-microbe ecological interactions for improved control of pest insects. Microbe-produced cheese odour attracts several dipterans, including host-seeking mosquitoes, but this phenomenon has not been thoroughly explored for mosquito control. Here we tested the hypothesis that attraction of mosquitoes to cheese odour can be exploited as an ecological trap for mosquito control. RESULTS In laboratory and/or field experiments, we show that (i) each of five cheese varieties tested (Raclette, Pecorino, Brie, Gruyere, Limburger) strongly attracts female Aedes aegypti and Culex pipiens; (ii) cheese infusions, or headspace odourant extracts (HOEs) of cheese infusions, significantly affect oviposition choices by mosquitoes, (iii) HOEs contain at least 13 odourants; (iv) in field settings, cheese infusions more effectively stimulate mosquito oviposition than positive bluegrass infusion controls, and also capture (by drowning) the spotted wing Drosophila, Drosophila suzukii; and (v) home-made cheese infusions modulate oviposition choices by mosquito females and affect the survivorship of their offspring larvae. CONCLUSION Our data show that microbial metabolites associated with cheese are attractive to mosquito females seeking hosts and oviposition sites and are likely toxic to mosquito larvae. These microbes and their metabolites could thus be co-opted for both the attract, and the kill, function of 'attract & kill' mosquito control tactics. Implementation of customizable and non-conventional nutritional media as microbe-based ecological traps presents a promising concept which exploits insect ecology for insect control. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ah Peach
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Max Almond
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Elton Ko
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Sanam Meraj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Regine Gries
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Gerhard Gries
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Demetrio GR, Jacobina UP, Barão KR. The Impact of Life Philosophy and Major Field of Study on Brazilian Students' Knowledge of Biological Evolution. SCIENCE & EDUCATION 2021; 32:19-36. [PMID: 34690434 PMCID: PMC8520115 DOI: 10.1007/s11191-021-00286-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Evolutionary theory (ET) is the unifying theory of Life Sciences, but it is largely misunderstood and the target of dispute in many countries, mainly because of conflicts with religious beliefs. Brazil is a country with a culture that is deeply rooted belief in God. In this paper, we report a study in Brazil where we applied a 12-question questionnaire to understand the relationship among the major field of study and the self-declared religious and philosophical context on the knowledge of evolutionary theory by Brazilian freshmen. We answer the following questions: (1) Is there a difference in ET comprehension according to the major field of study? (2) Are religious and philosophical contexts related to the comprehension of ET? (3) Are major field of study and religious/philosophical contexts together related to the comprehension of ET by Brazilian freshmen? A total of 153 freshmen students answered our questionnaire. Students from the Biological Sciences fared better than students from most other major field of study but were equal to students of Humanities. The philosophical perception of life had a major correlation with their knowledge about evolution, with self-declared atheists and agnostics showing better performance than religious students. There were no clear trends in the interaction of major field of study and philosophy of life. We discuss these results in the light of the rising ideological activism in Brazilian society since philosophy of life was the main driver of evolutionary theory perception. We highlight the importance of scientists and teachers in reassuring the role of science and scientific knowledge in modern societies. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11191-021-00286-z.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kim Ribeiro Barão
- Unidade Educacional Penedo, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Penedo, AL Brazil
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18
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Mermelstein S, German TC. Counterintuitive Pseudoscience Propagates by Exploiting the Mind's Communication Evaluation Mechanisms. Front Psychol 2021; 12:739070. [PMID: 34675845 PMCID: PMC8523830 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.739070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological models of culture posit that the prevalence of a belief depends in part on the fit between that belief and intuitions generated by the mind's reliably developing architecture. Application of such models to pseudoscience suggests that one route via which these beliefs gain widespread appeal stems from their compatibility with these intuitions. For example, anti-vaccination beliefs are readily adopted because they cohere with intuitions about the threat of contagion. However, other varieties of popular pseudoscience such as astrology and parapsychology contain content that violates intuitions held about objects and people. Here, we propose a pathway by which "counterintuitive pseudoscience" may spread and receive endorsement. Drawing on recent empirical evidence, we suggest that counterintuitive pseudoscience triggers the mind's communication evaluation mechanisms. These mechanisms are hypothesized to quarantine epistemically-suspect information including counterintuitive pseudoscientific concepts. As a consequence, these beliefs may not immediately update conflicting intuitions and may be largely restricted from influencing behavior. Nonetheless, counterintuitive pseudoscientific concepts, when in combination with intuitively appealing content, may differentially draw attention and memory. People may also be motivated to seek further information about these concepts, including by asking others, in an attempt to reconcile them with prior beliefs. This in turn promotes the re-transmission of these ideas. We discuss how, during this information-search, support for counterintuitive pseudoscience may come from deference to apparently authoritative sources, reasoned arguments, and the functional outcomes of these beliefs. Ultimately, these factors promote the cultural success of counterintuitive pseudoscience but explicit endorsement of these concepts may not entail tacit commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer Mermelstein
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
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Reasoning on Controversial Science Issues in Science Education and Science Communication. EDUCATION SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/educsci11090522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The ability to make evidence-based decisions, and hence to reason on questions concerning scientific and societal aspects, is a crucial goal in science education and science communication. However, science denial poses a constant challenge for society and education. Controversial science issues (CSI) encompass scientific knowledge rejected by the public as well as socioscientific issues, i.e., societal issues grounded in science that are frequently applied to science education. Generating evidence-based justifications for claims is central in scientific and informal reasoning. This study aims to describe attitudes and their justifications within the argumentations of a random online sample (N = 398) when reasoning informally on selected CSI. Following a deductive-inductive approach and qualitative content analysis of written open-ended answers, we identified five types of justifications based on a fine-grained category system. The results suggest a topic-specificity of justifications referring to specific scientific data, while justifications appealing to authorities tend to be common across topics. Subjective, and therefore normative, justifications were slightly related to conspiracy ideation and a general rejection of the scientific consensus. The category system could be applied to other CSI topics to help clarify the relation between scientific and informal reasoning in science education and communication.
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Batalha L, Foroni F, Jones BJ. All Plant Breeding Technologies Are Equal, but Some Are More Equal Than Others: The Case of GM and Mutagenesis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:657133. [PMID: 34276720 PMCID: PMC8283524 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.657133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
A pervasive opposition to genetically modified (GM) foods has developed from the notion that they pose a risk to human and environmental health. Other techniques for the genetic modification of plants, such as sexual crossing and mutagenesis breeding, have mostly remained unchallenged. This research aims to investigate public perception of plant breeding technologies. Specifically, sexual crossing, mutagenesis, transgenics (GM) and gene editing. It was expected that attitudes and intentions would be most positive and the perception of risk lowest for plant genetic modification through sexual crosses. Scores on these variables were expected to be similar between mutagenesis, GM and gene editing. It was also expected that attitudes, intentions and risk perception would change (becoming more positive) once participants learned about foods developed through these technologies. Participants reported their attitudes, intentions and risk perception at two points in time. At Time 2, they were presented with pictures of food items developed through sexual crossing, GM and mutagenesis. The results showed that mutagenesis stood out as the most negatively perceived technology, whereas genetic development via sexual crosses was generally perceived as positive. The results highlight the importance of messaging, framing in consumer attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Batalha
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Francesco Foroni
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brian Joseph Jones
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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21
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Benítez Candia N, Ulke Mayans G, Gómez Paniagua P, Rezende Ribeiro C, Velázquez Franco J, Kamada D, Mendoza de Arbo L, Fernández Ríos D. Perception of genetically engineered crops in Paraguay. GM CROPS & FOOD 2021; 12:409-418. [PMID: 34556014 PMCID: PMC8475557 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2021.1969835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Paraguay is integrated into the world mainly through its agricultural activity. The population’s perception of genetically engineered crops is relevant to design communication strategies that convey the advantages and limitations of the various technologies used in the country. We aimed to know the perception of the population of four Departments of the country where such crops are grown through a survey, which revealed a low level of knowledge about genetically engineered crops in general, and specifically about the effects of genetically engineered crops on production, nutrition, and the environment. Respondents expressed a willingness to receive information on genetically engineered crops, in particular from the National Government and the Health Sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidia Benítez Candia
- Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
| | - Gabriela Ulke Mayans
- Ministerio de Salud Pública y Bienestar Social, Instituto Nacional de Alimentación y Nutrición, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Pilar Gómez Paniagua
- Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
| | - Claudia Rezende Ribeiro
- Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
| | - José Velázquez Franco
- Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
| | | | | | - Danilo Fernández Ríos
- Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
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22
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Roth S, Valentinov V. East of nature. Accounting for the environments of social sciences. ECOLOGICAL ECONOMICS : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR ECOLOGICAL ECONOMICS 2020; 176:106734. [PMID: 32536748 PMCID: PMC7276141 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2020.106734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
At the core of ecological economics is the image of the economy as an open system embedded in the natural environment whose carrying capacity is limited. The present paper revisits this image by drawing upon the constructivist implications of Luhmann's social systems theory. To Luhmann, the modern society consists of a multitude of social systems each bringing forth and observing their own environments. If the Luhmannian vision is accepted, then ecological economics can be said to privilege the observational perspective of natural sciences. The unfortunate consequence of this privileging is the underestimation of a broad range of multidimensional sustainability risks which are foregrounded by the numerous alternative observational perspectives which are just as legitimate. It is argued that, rather than relativizing the sustainability concerns of the modern ecological economics, the Luhmannian perspective generalizes and radicalizes them. In doing so, the latter perspective opens new possibilities not only for navigating these risks but also for envisioning new resources and solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Roth
- Department of Strategy, La Rochelle Business School, France
- Department of Social Research, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Vladislav Valentinov
- Leibniz Institute of Agricultural Development in Central and Eastern Europe, Theodor-Lieser-Straße 2, 06120 Halle, Germany, and University of Halle-Wittenberg, Universitätsplatz 10, 06108 Halle, Germany
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23
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Abstract
A thorough analysis of the underlying worldviews and anthropologies of science and the language it uses could help to maintain the rigour of science and public trust in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Couée
- Univ Rennes, University of Rennes 1, CNRS, ECOBIO (Ecosystems-Biodiversity-Evolution) - UMR 6553, Rennes, France
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24
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25
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Swiney L. Intuitive biology, moral reasoning, and engineering life: Essentialist thinking and moral purity concerns shape risk assessments of synthetic biology technologies. Cognition 2020; 201:104264. [PMID: 32442798 DOI: 10.1016/j.cognition.2020.104264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The field of synthetic biology heralds a new era in our relationship with nature, as organisms are engineered to meet human goals. But little attention has been paid to potential cognitive constraints on reasoning about such technologies. Across four studies with American adults (N = 649), the present research investigates the proposal that essentialist reasoning and moral purity concerns conspire to shape risk assessments of engineered organisms. Moral purity concerns but not moral harm concerns predict moral wrongness judgments of adding a foreign gene to a plant (Studies 1, 2 & 4), as well as assessments of risk (Studies 1 and 2), and risk of harm from eating (Study 4). Adding a gene from a taxonomically distant organism is considered more morally wrong (Studies 2, 3 and 4), more risky (Studies 2 & 3), and more risky to eat (Study 4), than adding either a gene from a similar organism or a new-to-nature gene. Assessments of the risk of gene spread follow a different pattern, with the new-to-nature gene considered safest (Study 4). The findings support the proposal that gene change is reasoned about as essence change that threatens notions of moral purity, with direct implications for certain types of risk perceptions (eating), but not others (gene spread). The findings elucidate cognitive constraints on risk perceptions of synthetic biology, shed fresh light on essentialist and moral reasoning in a novel biological context, and demonstrate the need to differentiate between both risk context and risk type in cognitive accounts of risk perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Swiney
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Centre, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK.
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26
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Marie A, Altay S, Strickland B. The cognitive foundations of misinformation on science: What we know and what scientists can do about it. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e50205. [PMID: 32249542 PMCID: PMC7132178 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202050205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Mis information and misunderstanding of science can partially explained by cognitive processes rooted in our evolutionary past. Science communication can use this knowledge to overcome these cognitive limits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Marie
- Département d'Etudes CognitivesInstitut Jean NicodENS, EHESS, CNRSPSL Research UniversityParisFrance
- UM6P School of Collective IntelligenceBen GuérirMorocco
| | - Sacha Altay
- Département d'Etudes CognitivesInstitut Jean NicodENS, EHESS, CNRSPSL Research UniversityParisFrance
| | - Brent Strickland
- Département d'Etudes CognitivesInstitut Jean NicodENS, EHESS, CNRSPSL Research UniversityParisFrance
- UM6P School of Collective IntelligenceBen GuérirMorocco
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27
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Sikder O, Smith RE, Vivo P, Livan G. A minimalistic model of bias, polarization and misinformation in social networks. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5493. [PMID: 32218492 PMCID: PMC7099021 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62085-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Online social networks provide users with unprecedented opportunities to engage with diverse opinions. At the same time, they enable confirmation bias on large scales by empowering individuals to self-select narratives they want to be exposed to. A precise understanding of such tradeoffs is still largely missing. We introduce a social learning model where most participants in a network update their beliefs unbiasedly based on new information, while a minority of participants reject information that is incongruent with their preexisting beliefs. This simple mechanism generates permanent opinion polarization and cascade dynamics, and accounts for the aforementioned tradeoff between confirmation bias and social connectivity through analytic results. We investigate the model’s predictions empirically using US county-level data on the impact of Internet access on the formation of beliefs about global warming. We conclude by discussing policy implications of our model, highlighting the downsides of debunking and suggesting alternative strategies to contrast misinformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orowa Sikder
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6EA, UK
| | - Robert E Smith
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6EA, UK
| | - Pierpaolo Vivo
- Department of Mathematics, King's College London, Strand, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Giacomo Livan
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6EA, UK. .,Systemic Risk Centre, London School of Economics and Political Sciences, Houghton Street, London, WC2A 2AE, UK.
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28
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González FG, Rigalli N, Miranda PV, Romagnoli M, Ribichich KF, Trucco F, Portapila M, Otegui ME, Chan RL. An Interdisciplinary Approach to Study the Performance of Second-generation Genetically Modified Crops in Field Trials: A Case Study With Soybean and Wheat Carrying the Sunflower HaHB4 Transcription Factor. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:178. [PMID: 32210989 PMCID: PMC7069416 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Research, production, and use of genetically modified (GM) crops have split the world between supporters and opponents. Up to now, this technology has been limited to the control of weeds and pests, whereas the second generation of GM crops is expected to assist farmers in abiotic stress tolerance or improved nutritional features. Aiming to analyze this subject holistically, in this presentation we address an advanced technology for drought-tolerant GM crops, upscaling from molecular details obtained in the laboratory to an extensive network of field trials as well as the impact of the introduction of this innovation into the market. Sunflower has divergent transcription factors, which could be key actors in the drought response orchestrating several signal transduction pathways, generating an improved performance to deal with water deficit. One of such factors, HaHB4, belongs to the homeodomain-leucine zipper family and was first introduced in Arabidopsis. Transformed plants had improved tolerance to water deficits, through the inhibition of ethylene sensitivity and not by stomata closure. Wheat and soybean plants expressing the HaHB4 gene were obtained and cropped across a wide range of growing conditions exhibiting enhanced adaptation to drought-prone environments, the most important constraint affecting crop yield worldwide. The performance of wheat and soybean, however, differed slightly across mentioned environments; whereas the improved behavior of GM wheat respect to controls was less dependent on the temperature regime (cool or warm), differences between GM and wild-type soybeans were remarkably larger in warmer compared to cooler conditions. In both species, these GM crops are good candidates to become market products in the near future. In anticipation of consumers' and other stakeholders' interest, spectral analyses of field crops have been conducted to differentiate these GM crops from wild type and commercial cultivars. In this paper, the potential impact of the release of such market products is discussed, considering the perspectives of different stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolás Rigalli
- CIFASIS, Universidad Nacional de Rosario—CONICET, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Patricia Vivian Miranda
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología Rosario (INDEAR)/BIOCERES, Rosario, Argentina
- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martín Romagnoli
- CIFASIS, Universidad Nacional de Rosario—CONICET, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Karina Fabiana Ribichich
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral, Universidad Nacional del Litoral—CONICET, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Federico Trucco
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología Rosario (INDEAR)/BIOCERES, Rosario, Argentina
| | | | - María Elena Otegui
- CONICET-INTA-FAUBA, Estación Experimental Pergamino, Facultad de Agronomía Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Raquel Lía Chan
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral, Universidad Nacional del Litoral—CONICET, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
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29
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Montagu MV. The future of plant biotechnology in a globalized and environmentally endangered world. Genet Mol Biol 2020; 43:e20190040. [PMID: 31930275 PMCID: PMC7216575 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2019-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper draws on the importance of science-based agriculture in order to throw light on the way scientific achievements are at the basis of modern civilization. An overview of literature on plant biotechnology innovations and the need to steer agriculture towards sustainability introduces a series of perspectives on how plant biotech can contribute to the major challenge of feeding our super population with enough nutritious food without further compromise of the environment. The paper argues that science alone will not solve problems. Three major forces - science, the economy and society - shape our modern world. There is a need for a new social contract to harmonize these forces. The deployment of the technologies must be done on the basis of ethical and moral values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Van Montagu
- VIB-International Plant Biotechnology Outreach, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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30
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Royzman EB, Cusimano C, Metas S, Leeman RF. Is Opposition to Genetically Modified Food "Morally Absolutist"? A Consequence-Based Perspective. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2019; 15:250-272. [PMID: 31877108 DOI: 10.1177/1745691619873550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Genetically modified foods (GMFs) have met with strong opposition for most of their existence. According to one account-the consequence-based perspective (CP)-lay people oppose GMFs because they deem them unsafe as well as of dubious value. The CP is backed by the data and offers a clear solution for easing GMF opposition. However, several scholars have claimed that the CP is faulty, that lay opposition derives from largely nonrational factors and is consequence blind. One recent statement of this, the moral-absolutism perspective (MAP), contends that GMFs' opponents are principled "moral absolutists" who think that GMFs should be banned no matter their value or risk. Herein we critically weigh key arguments for this proposal. We also present five new studies that probed the clearest data that seem to favor the MAP-opponents affirming the statement that GMFs should be "prohibited," no matter their value or risk. These studies jointly show that (a) most presumed absolutists do not understand the key question and/or (b) cannot validly answer it. We show that taking due steps in clarifying the question and screening for those participants who cannot validly answer it cuts down absolutism to near zero. Finally, we demonstrate that helping GMFs' opponents imagine a world wherein GMFs are safe and constructive makes the majority willing to welcome GMFs in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward B Royzman
- Master of Behavioral and Decision Sciences Program and Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania
| | | | | | - Robert F Leeman
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
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31
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Mercier H, Majima Y, Claidière N, Léone J. Obstacles to the spread of unintuitive beliefs. EVOLUTIONARY HUMAN SCIENCES 2019; 1:e10. [PMID: 37588403 PMCID: PMC10427286 DOI: 10.1017/ehs.2019.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Many socially significant beliefs are unintuitive, from the harmlessness of GMOs to the efficacy of vaccination, and they are acquired via deference toward individuals who are more confident, more competent or a majority. In the two-step flow model of communication, a first group of individuals acquires some beliefs through deference and then spreads these beliefs more broadly. Ideally, these individuals should be able to explain why they deferred to a given source - to provide arguments from expertise - and others should find these arguments convincing. We test these requirements using a perceptual task with participants from the US and Japan. In Experiment 1, participants were provided with first-hand evidence that they should defer to an expert, leading a majority of participants to adopt the expert's answer. However, when attempting to pass on this answer, only a minority of those participants used arguments from expertise. In Experiment 2, participants receive an argument from expertise describing the expert's competence, instead of witnessing it first-hand. This leads to a significant drop in deference compared with Experiment 1. These experiments highlight significant obstacles to the transmission of unintuitive beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Mercier
- Institut Jean Nicod, Département d’études cognitives, ENS, EHESS, PSL University, CNRS, ParisFrance
- Institut des Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, UMR 5304, CNRS and Université de Lyon, Bron, France
| | | | - Nicolas Claidière
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, LPC UMR 7290, 13331, Marseille, France
| | - Jessica Léone
- Institut des Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod, UMR 5304, CNRS and Université de Lyon, Bron, France
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32
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Mankad A, Kennedy U, Carter L. Biological control of pests and a social model of animal welfare. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 247:313-322. [PMID: 31252230 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.06.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This paper considers the sociocultural implications of biological pest control that sit at the cusp of managing an invasive species for conservation or productivity (i.e. a 'natural enemy') and socially driven 'manipulating life' arguments. We consider the role of perceived humaneness or, more accurately, animal welfare as it relates to managing invasive species from a scientific and social perspective. In order to highlight and articulate particular nuances and standards across different pest control contexts, we use three case examples (feral cats, wild rabbits, and invasive cane toads) and explore where biological pest control and animal welfare interests intersect. The paper summarises key scientific welfare concerns and then extends the literature to also examine key social characteristics of each pest management scenario, including lay perceptions of animal welfare, the sociocultural context that pests exist within, and overarching psychological factors contributing to public sentiment, including perceived risks. The subsequent descriptive model presented is useful in articulating core sociocultural beliefs relative to each case and how these antecedent associations and attitudes about an animal influence subsequent beliefs about a pest management strategy and ultimately acceptance of the management approach. The model can inform invasive species management policies and highlight key sociocultural factors likely to influence public responses. The model also informs interdisciplinary science designed to develop acceptable and socially responsible biocontrol strategies that consider public perceptions of animal welfare and cultural appropriateness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Mankad
- CSIRO Land & Water, GPO Box 2583, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia; Synthetic Biology Future Science Platform, CSIRO Land & Water, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia.
| | - Uttara Kennedy
- RSPCA Queensland, Locked Bag 3000, Archerfield BH QLD 4108, Australia
| | - Lucy Carter
- CSIRO Land & Water, GPO Box 2583, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia; Synthetic Biology Future Science Platform, CSIRO Land & Water, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
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33
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Lovett B, Bilgo E, Diabate A, St Leger R. A review of progress toward field application of transgenic mosquitocidal entomopathogenic fungi. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2019; 75:2316-2324. [PMID: 30801913 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In Africa, adult mosquito populations are primarily controlled with insecticide-impregnated bed nets and residual insecticide sprays. This coupled with widespread applications of pesticides in agriculture has led to increasing insecticide resistance in mosquito populations. We have developed multiple alternative strategies for exploiting transgenic Metarhizium spp. directed at: (i) shortening the lifespan of adult mosquitoes; (ii) reducing transmission potential of Plasmodium spp.; (iii) reducing vector competence via pre-lethal effects. The present challenge is to convert this promising strategy into a validated public health intervention by resolving outstanding issues related to the release of genetically modified organisms. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Lovett
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Etienne Bilgo
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Abdoulaye Diabate
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé/Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Raymond St Leger
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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34
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Egolf A, Hartmann C, Siegrist M. When Evolution Works Against the Future: Disgust's Contributions to the Acceptance of New Food Technologies. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2019; 39:1546-1559. [PMID: 30759314 PMCID: PMC6850642 DOI: 10.1111/risa.13279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
New food technologies have a high potential to transform the current resource-consuming food system to a more efficient and sustainable one, but public acceptance of new food technologies is rather low. Such an avoidance might be maintained by a deeply preserved risk avoidance system called disgust. In an online survey, participants (N = 313) received information about a variety of new food technology applications (i.e., genetically modified meat/fish, edible nanotechnology coating film, nanotechnology food box, artificial meat/milk, and a synthetic food additive). Every new food technology application was rated according to the respondent's willingness to eat (WTE) it (i.e., acceptance), risk, benefit, and disgust perceptions. Furthermore, food disgust sensitivity was measured using the Food Disgust Scale. Overall, the WTE both gene-technology applications and meat coated with an edible nanotechnology film were low and disgust responses toward all three applications were high. In full mediation models, food disgust sensitivity predicted the disgust response toward each new food technology application, which in turn influenced WTE them. Effects of disgust responses on the WTE a synthetic food additive were highest for and lowest for the edible nanotechnology coating film compared to the other technologies. Results indicate that direct disgust responses influence acceptance and risk and benefit perceptions of new food technologies. Beyond the discussion of this study, implications for future research and strategies to increase acceptance of new food technologies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Egolf
- Institute for Environmental DecisionsConsumer BehaviourETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Christina Hartmann
- Institute for Environmental DecisionsConsumer BehaviourETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Michael Siegrist
- Institute for Environmental DecisionsConsumer BehaviourETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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Parker C, Bernaola L, Lee BW, Elmquist D, Cohen A, Marshall A, Hepler J, Pekarcik A, Justus E, King K, Lee TY, Esquivel C, Hauri K, McCullough C, Hadden W, Ragozzino M, Roth M, Villegas J, Kraus E, Becker M, Mulcahy M, Chen R, Mittapelly P, Clem CS, Skinner R, Josek T, Pearlstein D, Tetlie J, Tran A, Auletta A, Benkert E, Tussey D. Entomology in the 21st Century: Tackling Insect Invasions, Promoting Advancements in Technology, and Using Effective Science Communication-2018 Student Debates. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2019; 19:4. [PMID: 31268545 PMCID: PMC6608551 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iez069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The 2018 student debates of the Entomological Society of America were held at the Joint Annual Meeting for the Entomological Societies of America, Canada, and British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. Three unbiased introductory speakers and six debate teams discussed and debated topics under the theme 'Entomology in the 21st Century: Tackling Insect Invasions, Promoting Advancements in Technology, and Using Effective Science Communication'. This year's debate topics included: 1) What is the most harmful invasive insect species in the world? 2) How can scientists diffuse the stigma or scare factor surrounding issues that become controversial such as genetically modified organisms, agricultural biotechnological developments, or pesticide chemicals? 3) What new/emerging technologies have the potential to revolutionize entomology (other than Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats)? Introductory speakers and debate teams spent approximately 9 mo preparing their statements and arguments and had the opportunity to share this at the Joint Annual Meeting with an engaged audience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey Parker
- University of Florida, Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, Vero Beach, FL
| | - Lina Bernaola
- Louisiana State University, Department of Entomology, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Benjamin W Lee
- Washington State University, Department of Entomology, Pullman, WA
| | - Dane Elmquist
- Washington State University, Department of Entomology, Pullman, WA
| | - Abigail Cohen
- Washington State University, Department of Entomology, Pullman, WA
| | - Adrian Marshall
- Washington State University, Department of Entomology, Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center, Wenatchee, WA
| | - James Hepler
- Washington State University, Department of Entomology, Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center, Wenatchee, WA
| | - Adrian Pekarcik
- The Ohio State University, Department of Entomology, Wooster, OH
| | - Emily Justus
- The Ohio State University, Department of Entomology, Wooster, OH
| | - Kendall King
- The Ohio State University, Department of Entomology, Columbus, OH
| | - Tae-Young Lee
- The Ohio State University, Department of Entomology, Columbus, OH
| | - Carlos Esquivel
- The Ohio State University, Department of Entomology, Wooster, OH
| | - Kayleigh Hauri
- Michigan State University, Department of Entomology, East Lansing, MI
| | - Christopher McCullough
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Plant and Environmental Science, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Whitney Hadden
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Entomology, Also H Smith Jr AREC, Winchester, VA
| | - Max Ragozzino
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Entomology, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Morgan Roth
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Department of Entomology, Blacksburg, VA
| | - James Villegas
- Louisiana State University, Department of Entomology, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Emily Kraus
- Louisiana State University, Department of Entomology, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Michael Becker
- Louisiana State University, Department of Entomology, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Megan Mulcahy
- Louisiana State University, Department of Entomology, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Rui Chen
- Louisiana State University, Department of Entomology, Baton Rouge, LA
| | | | - C Scott Clem
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Entomology, Urbana, IL
| | - Rachel Skinner
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Entomology, Urbana, IL
| | - Tanya Josek
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Entomology, Urbana, IL
| | - Daniel Pearlstein
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Entomology, Urbana, IL
| | - Jonathan Tetlie
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Entomology, Urbana, IL
| | - Anh Tran
- University of Minnesota, Department of Entomology, St Paul, MN
| | - Anthony Auletta
- University of Minnesota, Department of Entomology, St Paul, MN
| | - Edwin Benkert
- University of Minnesota, Department of Entomology, St Paul, MN
| | - Dylan Tussey
- University of Florida, Entomology and Nematology Department, Gainesville, FL
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36
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Khumsupan P, Donovan S, McCormick AJ. CRISPR/Cas in Arabidopsis: overcoming challenges to accelerate improvements in crop photosynthetic efficiencies. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2019; 166:428-437. [PMID: 30706492 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.12937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The rapid and widespread adoption of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas technologies has allowed genetic editing in plants to enter a revolutionary new era. In this mini review, we highlight the current CRISPR/Cas tools available in plants and the use of Arabidopsis thaliana as a model to guide future improvements in crop yields, such as enhancing photosynthetic potential. We also outline the current socio-political landscape for CRISPR/Cas research and highlight the growing need for governments to better facilitate research into plant genetic-editing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panupon Khumsupan
- SynthSys and Institute of Molecular Plant Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Sophie Donovan
- SynthSys and Institute of Molecular Plant Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Alistair J McCormick
- SynthSys and Institute of Molecular Plant Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
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Abstract
The European Court of Justice's recent ruling that the new techniques for crop development are to be considered as genetically modified organisms under the European Union's regulations exacerbates the need for a critical evaluation of those regulations. The paper analyzes the regulation from the perspective of moral and political philosophy. It considers whether influential arguments for restrictions of genetically modified organisms provide cogent justifications for the policies that are in place, in particular a pre-release authorization requirement, mandatory labelling, and de facto bans (in the form of withholding or opting out of authorizations). It is argued that arguments pertaining to risk can justify some form of pre-release authorization scheme, although not necessarily the current one, but that neither de facto bans nor mandatory labelling can be justified by reference to common arguments concerning naturalness, agricultural policy (in particular the promotion of organic farming), socio-economic effects, or consumers' right to choose.
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38
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Fasce A, Picó A. Conceptual foundations and validation of the Pseudoscientific Belief Scale. APPLIED COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/acp.3501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Fasce
- Department of Philosophy; University of Valencia; Valencia Spain
| | - Alfonso Picó
- Department of Psychobiology; University of Valencia; Valencia Spain
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39
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Ogwu MC. Lifelong Consumption of Plant-Based GM Foods. ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES AND HUMAN HEALTH CHALLENGES 2019. [DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-7635-8.ch008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetically modified (GM) crops are cultivated in over 30 countries with their products and by-products imported by over 60 countries. This chapter seeks to highlight general concerns and potential lifelong effects of consuming GM plant-based food. The consumption of GM plant-based food is as risky as consuming conventional plant-based food. However, the alien genes in these products may be unstable leading to antinutritional and unintended short-term consequences. Due to the paucity of research, no long-term effects have been attributed to the lifelong consumption of these products. Nonetheless, possible lifelong health and socioeconomic effects may result from outcrossing of genes, increasing antibiotic resistance, development of new diseases, as well as potential effects on the environment and biodiversity. Biotechnology companies need to invest more in interdisciplinary research addressing the potential lifelong effects of these products. Although GM foods are safe for consumption, clarification of current risks and lifelong effects are required.
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Borges BJP, Arantes OMN, Fernandes AAR, Broach JR, Fernandes PMB. Genetically Modified Labeling Policies: Moving Forward or Backward? Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2018; 6:181. [PMID: 30538985 PMCID: PMC6277523 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2018.00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the priorities to address food security is to increase the access of farmers to biotechnology, through the application of scientific advances, such as genetically modified organisms and food (GMF). However, the spread of (mis)information about their safety strengthens the clamor for mandatory GMF labeling. This paper provides an overview of food labeling policies, considering the principles suggested by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, and analyzes the consequences for the world food security of the Brazilian labeling policies compared to developed countries. We discuss the discriminatory application of GMF mandatory labeling in the absence of any scientific evidence as it has the potential of causing social harm and jeopardizes research, production, and distribution of food and consumers' right to information.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - James R Broach
- Penn State Institute for Personalized Medicine, 500 University Dr., Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Patricia Machado Bueno Fernandes
- Biotechnology Group, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil.,Institute for Personalized Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, United States
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Swiney L, Bates DG, Coley JD. Cognitive Constraints Shape Public Debate on the Risks of Synthetic Biology. Trends Biotechnol 2018; 36:1199-1201. [PMID: 30309676 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We consider efforts to understand public perceptions of synthetic biology, describing a novel cognitive science approach indicating that cognitive biases constrain risk perceptions of synthetic biology. We discuss the implications of these findings and outline how they may be harnessed to improve the quality of public debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Swiney
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Center, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
| | - Declan G Bates
- Warwick Integrative Synthetic Biology Center, School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - John D Coley
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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Scott-Phillips T, Blancke S, Heintz C. Four misunderstandings about cultural attraction. Evol Anthropol 2018; 27:162-173. [PMID: 30099809 DOI: 10.1002/evan.21716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cultural attraction theory (CAT) is a research agenda the purpose of which is to develop causal explanations of cultural phenomena. CAT is also an evolutionary approach to culture, in the sense that it treats culture as a population of items of different types, with the frequency of tokens of those types changing over time. Now more than 20 years old, CAT has made many positive contributions, theoretical and empirical, to the naturalization of the social sciences. In consequence of this growing impact, CAT has, in recent years, been the subject of critical discussion. Here, we review and respond to these critiques. In so doing, we also provide a clear and concise introduction to CAT. We give clear characterizations of CAT's key theoretical notions, and we outline how these notions are derived from consideration of the natural character of cultural phenomena (Box ). This naturalistic quality distinguishes CAT from other evolutionary approaches to culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thom Scott-Phillips
- Department of Cognitive Science, Central European University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Stefaan Blancke
- Department of Cognitive Science, Central European University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Philosophy and Moral Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christophe Heintz
- Department of Cognitive Science, Central European University, Budapest, Hungary
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Cook J, Zhang J, Norrie J, Blal B, Cheng Z. Seaweed Extract (Stella Maris ®) Activates Innate Immune Responses in Arabidopsis thaliana and Protects Host against Bacterial Pathogens. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:E221. [PMID: 29958402 PMCID: PMC6071235 DOI: 10.3390/md16070221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Insects and pathogenic infections (bacteria, viruses and fungi) cause huge losses in agriculturally important crops yearly. Due to the rise in pesticide and antibiotic resistance, our crops and livestock are increasingly at risk. There is a rising demand for environmentally friendly solutions to prevent crop decreases. Components of Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extracts were recently found to boost plant immunity. The stimulatory activities of the A.nodosum marine alga-derived extract (Stella Maris®) were investigated in a broad range of immune assays. Elevated hydrogen peroxide production measured in a chemiluminescence assay suggested that the extract elicited a strong burst of reactive oxygen species. Arabidopsis seedlings treated with Stella Maris® activated the expression of WRKY30, CYP71A12 and PR-1 genes, the induction of which represent early, mid and late plant immune response, respectively. Finally, this study found that Stella Maris® inhibited the growth of multiple bacterial pathogens, including an opportunistic human pathogen that has demonstrated pathogenicity in plants. In summary, the pre-treatment with the seaweed extract protected Arabidopsis against subsequent infection by these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Cook
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Janie Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Jeff Norrie
- Acadian Seaplants Limited, 30 Brown Avenue, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1X8, Canada.
| | - Bachar Blal
- Acadian Seaplants Limited, 30 Brown Avenue, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1X8, Canada.
| | - Zhenyu Cheng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
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The ethical concerns about transgenic crops. Biochem J 2018; 475:803-811. [PMID: 29490910 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20170794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
It is generally accepted that transgenesis can improve our knowledge of natural processes, but also leads to agricultural, industrial or socio-economical changes which could affect human society at large and which may, consequently, require regulation. It is often stated that developing countries are most likely to benefit from plant biotechnology and are at the same time most likely to be affected by the deployment of such new technologies. Therefore, ethical questions related to such biotechnology probably also need to be addressed. We first illustrate how consequentialist and nonconsequentialist theories of ethics can be applied to the genetically modified organism debate, namely consequentialism, autonomy/consent ethics (i.e. self-determination of people regarding matters that may have an effect on these people) and virtue ethics (i.e. whether an action is in adequacy with ideal traits). We show that these approaches lead to highly conflicting views. We have then refocused on moral 'imperatives', such as freedom, justice and truth. Doing so does not resolve all conflicting views, but allows a gain in clarity in the sense that the ethical concerns are shifted from a technology (and its use) to the morality or amorality of various stakeholders of this debate.
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Jacob P, Avni A, Bendahmane A. Translational Research: Exploring and Creating Genetic Diversity. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 23:42-52. [PMID: 29126790 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The crop selection process has created a genetic bottleneck ultimately restricting breeding output. Wild relatives of major crops as well as the so-called 'neglected plant' species represent a reservoir of genetic diversity that remains underutilized. These species could be used as a tool to discover new alleles of agronomic interest or could be the target of breeding programs. Targeted induced local lesions in the genome (TILLING) can be used to translate in neglected crops what has been discovered in major crops and reciprocally. However, random mutagenesis, used in TILLING approaches, provides only a limited density of mutational events at a defined target locus. Alternatively, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) associated 9 (Cas9) fused to a cytidine deaminase could serve as a localized mutagenic agent to produce high-density mutant populations. Artificial evolution is at hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Jacob
- Institute of Plant Science - Paris-Saclay, INRA, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Adi Avni
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Rutjens BT, Sutton RM, van der Lee R. Not All Skepticism Is Equal: Exploring the Ideological Antecedents of Science Acceptance and Rejection. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2017; 44:384-405. [PMID: 29191107 PMCID: PMC5810918 DOI: 10.1177/0146167217741314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Many topics that scientists investigate speak to people’s ideological worldviews. We report three studies—including an analysis of large-scale survey data—in which we systematically investigate the ideological antecedents of general faith in science and willingness to support science, as well as of science skepticism of climate change, vaccination, and genetic modification (GM). The main predictors are religiosity and political orientation, morality, and science understanding. Overall, science understanding is associated with vaccine and GM food acceptance, but not climate change acceptance. Importantly, different ideological predictors are related to the acceptance of different scientific findings. Political conservatism best predicts climate change skepticism. Religiosity, alongside moral purity concerns, best predicts vaccination skepticism. GM food skepticism is not fueled by religious or political ideology. Finally, religious conservatives consistently display a low faith in science and an unwillingness to support science. Thus, science acceptance and rejection have different ideological roots, depending on the topic of investigation.
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What lies beneath? Fear vs. disgust as affective predictors of absolutist opposition to genetically modified food and other new technologies. JUDGMENT AND DECISION MAKING 2017. [DOI: 10.1017/s1930297500006495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractIn line with earlier research, a multi-phase study found a significant positive association between a widely used measure of trait disgust and people’s tendency to favor absolutist (non-consequentialist) restrictions on genetically modified food (GMF). However, a more nuanced high-granularity approach showed that it was individual sensitivity to fear (specifically, a tendency to feel creeped out by strange and subtly deviant events) rather than a tendency to be disgusted (orally inhibited) by these events that was a unique predictor of absolutist opposition to GMF and other types of new technology. This finding is consistent with prior theorizing and research demonstrating fear to be “the major determiner of public perception and acceptance of risk for a wide range of hazards” related to new technology (e.g., nuclear power) (Slovic & Peters, 2006, p. 322). The present study calls attention to the importance of conducting future assessments of disgust (and other affective constructs) in a manner that, among other things, recognizes the substantial disconnect between theoretical and lay meanings of the term and illustrates how a policy-guiding result may arise from a sheer miscommunication between a researcher and a subject.
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