bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decision-making and small business growth in Burundi
Authors: Eijdenberg Emiel L. , Paas Leonard J. , Masurel Enno
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of decision-making, in terms of the effectuation and causation orientation of small business owners, on the growth of their small businesses in an uncertain environment: Burundi.

Design/methodology/approach

On the basis of primary data from a pre-study of 29 expert interviews, a questionnaire was developed and was filled in by 154 small business owners in Burundi’s capital, Bujumbura. Subsequently, correlation analyses, a factor analysis and regression analyses were performed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

While, on the one hand, the findings show that small business owners who perceive the environment as uncertain are more effectuation-oriented than causation-oriented; on the other hand, the findings show that effectuation and causation orientations do not influence later small business growth. Therefore, other determinants for small business growth in an uncertain environment should be further explored.

Originality/value

This paper fills the research gap of decision-making in relation to small business growth from the entrepreneurs who are among the billion people who live in absolute poverty. On the basis of Western studies, effectuation might be more present in contexts of dealing with many uncertainties of future phenomena, and that it is often positively correlated with firm growth. In contrast, this paper shows that neither an effectuation orientation nor a causation orientation significantly affects small business growth in a context that can be assumed as highly uncertain.
Intergenerational conflict at US airlines: an unresolved Oedipal Complex?
Authors: Fraher Amy L.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how, if at all, organizational dynamics changed at US airlines after an industry wide modification to mandatory retirement age regulations in 2007. Findings challenge assumptions that society, organizations, and employees will all unequivocally benefit from abolishing mandatory retirement by investigating the impact of age-related policy changes on US airline pilots.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 43 semi-structured interviews were conducted with captains and copilots from US airlines between September 2010 and July 2011. From this data set, two informant subgroups emerged: first, senior captains averaging 59 years of age; and second, junior pilots averaging 43.5 years of age.

Findings

Findings revealed that both senior and junior pilots reported retirement age policy changes created an antagonistic environment, pitting employees against each other in competition over scarce resources.

Research limitations/implications

Paper findings are based on empirical materials collected during an 11 month snapshot-in-time between September 2010 and July 2011 and interview data are based on a small subgroup of US airline pilots who self-selected to participate in the study. Therefore, findings are not unbiased and may not be generalizable across all airlines’ pilot workgroups.

Practical implications

Considerable research has been conducted identifying the policy and practice changes that employers need to adopt to retain older workers. However, few studies consider the psychological impact of these age-related workplace changes on employees or the organizational psychodynamics they might trigger.

Originality/value

This paper makes two main contributions. First, through use of the psychoanalytic construct of the Oedipus complex, the paper sheds light on some of the psychodynamic consequences of age-related policy changes. Second, it challenges assumptions about workforce aging and the underlying causes of intergenerational conflict, highlighting ways that policy changes intended to eradicate discrimination against older workers can result in age discrimination against younger employees.
Patient participatory behaviours in healthcare service delivery
Authors: Osei-Frimpong Kofi
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deepen the understanding on patient participatory behaviours in co-creation of value drawing from the perspective of self-determination theory (SDT) focussing on motivation in particular.

Design/methodology/approach

A model is proposed to suggest the influence of the various motivation types on a patient’s participatory behaviours drawing from SDT. Following survey design approach, data collected from 345 outpatients from a quasi-government health facility in Accra, Ghana are examined through structural equation modelling using SmartPLS (v. 3.2.3).

Findings

The findings reveal that patient participatory behaviours are influenced by both controlled and autonomous regulations leading to value attainment. External regulation (a more controlled form of extrinsic motivation) and patient participation in clinical encounters have no significant relationship with a patient’s commitment to compliance with medical instructions. The results reveal patient compliance is largely driven by autonomous regulation as proposed by SDT. However, active patient participation in clinical encounters and commitment to compliance with medical instructions positively and significantly influences perceived value outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides empirical evidence in support of understanding patient participatory behaviours in healthcare service delivery by testing theoretically grounded hypotheses developed from SDT perspective. The study focussed on outpatients from one quasi-government health facility, which could limit the generalisation of the findings reported.

Practical implications

This study illustrates the need for service providers to understand participant’s needs and motivation during the service encounter. This is essential as the various types of motivation influence the nature of the participation throughout the process, which could help improve on the value outcomes from the service.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant contribution to service literature through the application of SDT to explain patient participatory behaviours in healthcare service delivery, production and value outcomes. From a theoretical perspective, the developed model integrates multiple research disciplines (e.g. SDT, participatory behaviours, and value co-creation) and extends research on patient integration, participation, and compliance.
A qualitative investigation of patrons’ experiences with academic library research consultations
Authors: Rogers Emily , Carrier Howard S.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to report the findings of a qualitative investigation of student patrons’ experiences with research consultations provided by reference librarians at a comprehensive university located in the southern USA during 2014.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through recorded interviews with patrons who had recently experienced a reference consultation with one of eight professional reference librarians during a semester. The recorded data were transcribed verbatim and the transcripts subjected to content analysis. The qualitative data analysis model selected was that of a conventional, inductive content analysis.

Findings

One principal finding demonstrates the need for marketing of the reference consultation service; participants were surprised at the service’s availability. Other findings illustrate the value participants placed on individual attention from a librarian, perceived librarian expertise, the consultation environment and student/librarian engagement.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations to this study include a small participant pool of undergraduate student patrons, mainly majoring in humanities disciplines. The findings therefore are limited in the confidence with which they can be generalized to larger populations.

Practical implications

The reference consultation remains an integral part of the services offered by an academic library’s reference department; libraries should market consultations accordingly. Academic libraries that do not operate on a subject specialist model should consider strategies for maximizing benefit when matching available staff to consultation requests.

Social implications

This study provides evidence for the value of one-to-one reference service through research consultations provided to library patrons in academic libraries serving institutions of the type described in the research.

Originality/value

A qualitative methodology, using content analysis of lengthy interviews with participants, provides considerable insight into academic library patrons’ attitudes toward the reference consultation service.
Teaching with the Framework: a Cephalonian approach
Authors: Hurley David A. , Potter Robin
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to provide academic instruction librarians with a model for integrating concepts from the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Framework into “one-shot” library instruction sessions without losing the practical experience of searching the library resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adapted the Cephalonian method as the structure of first-year library instruction sessions for an English composition class. The sessions were re-designed to emphasize the core concepts of information literacy while incorporating active learning activities and discussion.

Findings

The authors found the Cephalonian method to be a useful structure for incorporating aspects of the ACRL Framework into the first-year library instruction program. The call-and-response format fosters conversations and leads seamlessly into hands-on activities. When used as part of “flipped” instruction, the Cephalonian method allows instructors to engage students who have completed the online portion and those who have not.

Practical implications

This paper offers librarians practical ideas for incorporating the information literacy concepts outlined in the ACRL Framework into one-shot instruction sessions.

Originality/value

With the recent adoption of the Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education by ACRL, there is a need for practical examples of how to incorporate the frames into existing library instruction programs.
Green supply chain management: an empirical investigation on the construction sector
Authors: Balasubramanian Sreejith , Shukla Vinaya
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Curtailing the adverse environmental impacts of the construction sector is one the major challenges of the twenty-first century. However, despite the significance of this problem, the limited efforts so far to tackle the negative impacts associated with this particular sector have been largely fragmented and disjointed. Given that the net green outcome of a construction project is the sum total of the efforts undertaken at the various supply chain stages (from the initial design to the end-of-life demolition) by different stakeholders, the green supply chain management (GSCM) approach is seen as a way forward toward streamlining the fragmented efforts at greening the sector. This forms the motivation of the present work, and this paper aims to develop, validate and apply a multi-dimensional GSCM framework for the construction sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive GSCM assessment framework consisting of nine constructs (external and internal drivers; external and internal barriers; core and facilitating GSCM practices; economic, environmental and organizational performance implications) and their underlying factors was developed through an extensive literature review. Using data collected through a structured questionnaire, the framework was validated, and the relevance/appropriateness of each construct and its underlying factors, along with the hypothesized relationships between the constructs, were assessed separately for each supply chain stakeholder.

Findings

The findings confirm the validity and reliability of the constructs and their underlying factors as well as the assessment framework. In general, the implementation of green practices has had a positive impact on the environmental, economic and organizational performance for all stakeholders, while the extent of the green practices implemented depends on the relative strength of the drivers and barriers.

Research limitations/implications

This study fills a gap in the literature about applying/implementing GSCM in the construction sector.

Practical implications

The findings provide practitioners, policy makers and organizations associated with the UAE construction sector, as well as the construction sector in general, insight into all key aspects of GSCM.

Originality/value

A comprehensive survey-based assessment of GSCM for the construction sector has not been previously attempted and constitutes the novelty of this work.
Meta‐analysis of associations between XRCC1 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zhang Ming‐Yue , Yang Xiao‐Ke , Lv Tian‐Tian , Wu Jun , Xu Shu‐Zhen , Wang Jie‐Bing , Pan Hai‐Feng , Ye Dong‐Qing
Published: February 2017

Objective

To determine whether X‐ray repair cross‐complementing group 1 (XRCC1) gene polymorphisms confer susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A meta‐analysis was conducted to determine the associations between XRCC1 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to SLE and RA.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify all relevant studies. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of the association.

Results

A total of nine case‐control articles, consisting of five SLE and four RA articles, involving 1138 patients and 1399 healthy controls, were included in the meta‐analysis. This meta‐analysis showed no significant association of the Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp polymorphisms with SLE were found in all models when all study subjects were considered together. Stratification by ethnicity indicated the variant Arg399 (A) allele carriers increased the risk of SLE in Asians (A vs. G: OR = 1.402, 95% CI = 1.139–1.726, P = 0.001) and decreased the risk of SLE in Caucasians (A vs. G: OR = 0.769, 95% CI = 0.630–0.937, P = 0.009; AA vs. AG+GG: OR = 0.727, 95% CI = 0.554–0.953, P = 0.021). However, we failed to reveal any association between XRCC1 gene polymorphisms (Arg399Gln, Arg280His and Arg194Trp) and RA risk under all analysis models. Similar results were obtained in the subgroup analysis based on ethnicity.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that the XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism might be associated with genetic susceptibility to SLE in Asians and Caucasians, and there is no significant association between XRCC1 gene polymorphisms (Arg399Gln, Arg280His and Arg194Trp) and RA risk.
Longitudinal changes in marital satisfaction during middle age in Taiwan
Authors: Hsiao Ying‐Ling
Published: February 2017

The current 8‐year panel study explored changes in marital satisfaction among 614 married middle‐aged persons with seventh‐grade children. It also examined how individual health (physical health and depressive moods) and role changes (parenting transitions and life stress) were related to trajectories of marital satisfaction and investigated the buffering effect of family cohesion on these associations. Growth curve analyses show an inverted‐U shape in marital satisfaction during middle age. This indicates that regardless of the gender or age of the respondents, marital satisfaction among middle‐aged adults increased when their children were in the 9th and 12th grade, and then declined when their children were in their sophomore year of college. Declining physical health and an increase in depressive moods were related to a drop in marital satisfaction. Stressful events in midlife had negative effects on marital satisfaction, and family cohesion served as a buffer to mitigate the adverse impact of life stress on marital satisfaction. Overall, these results highlight the role of adolescent children in understanding why marital satisfaction changes among middle‐aged parents and emphasize the importance of health and life stress in relation to midlife marital satisfaction. These findings are discussed with life course perspectives and Taiwanese cultural values in relation to familism and academic achievement among children.
Is STEM running out of steam for Asian Americans? College admissions officers' perceptions of applicants
Authors: Chai Daniel , Weseley Allyson J.
Published: February 2017

While many people view Asian Americans as ‘model minorities’ who excel in math, science and music, they are also negatively stereotyped as nerdy and unsociable. Research has shown that Asian Americans have to outperform other races academically to receive equal consideration by colleges. This study is the first to test whether this bias is directed towards all Asian Americans or only those who fit the model minority stereotype. The present experiment investigates the effect of race and stereotypes on perceptions of students in the college admission process. College admission officers (N = 79) were randomly assigned to view a shortened version of a college application. The participants rated the student whose application they saw according to likelihood of being accepted into college, social competence, academic competence and contribution to a college's diversity. The stereotypical Asian American student was perceived to be significantly less likely to be accepted into college and had a lower perceived social competence than the other three students. Additionally, students who participated in counter‐stereotypical Asian activities were perceived as being more likely to be accepted, more socially competent and to contribute more diversity than students who participated in stereotypical Asian activities. A multiple regression revealed that social competence was the only significant predictor of likely acceptance. This study suggests that rather than all Asian American students being disadvantaged in the college admissions process, it is only those who fit common stereotypes who are affected.
Nocturnal enuresis impaired children's quality of life and friendships
Authors: Jönson Ring Ingrid , Nevéus Tryggve , Markström Agneta , Arnrup Kristina , Bazargani Farhan
Published: February 2017

Aim

There have not been any continence‐specific measurement tools in Swedish that have allowed clinicians to investigate the quality of life (QoL) in children with bladder dysfunction. This study evaluated the QoL in Swedish children with nocturnal enuresis and tested the reliability of a Swedish translation of the Paediatric Incontinence Questionnaire (PinQ).

Methods

This prospective study comprised 46 children aged six to 18 years with nocturnal enuresis, who completed the PinQ after it was translated into Swedish. It was completed twice by 33 patients, and these responses were included in the test–retest evaluation.

Results

The self‐reported mean sum score for the whole group was 26.3 ± 13.37 (range: 5‐58), and the most affected domains were social relations with peers and self‐esteem. The highest individual scores were four, three or two for 71.7%, 17.4% and 10.9% of the study population, respectively. Cronbach's alpha was 0.87 for the whole questionnaire, indicating good internal consistency. The test–retest stability was excellent, with an intra‐class correlation coefficient of 0.76.

Conclusion

Children with nocturnal enuresis had impaired self‐esteem, and their impaired QoL affected their relationships with friends. The Swedish version of the PinQ proved to be a reliable tool that will be used in further studies.
Likelihood of cesarean delivery after applying leading active labor diagnostic guidelines
Authors: Neal Jeremy L. , Lowe Nancy K. , Phillippi Julia C. , Ryan Sharon L. , Knupp Amy M. , Dietrich Mary S. , Thung Stephen F.
Published: February 2017

Background

Friedman, the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists/Society for Maternal‐Fetal Medicine (ACOG/SMFM) support different active labor diagnostic guidelines. Our aims were to compare likelihoods for cesarean delivery among women admitted before vs in active labor by diagnostic guideline (within‐guideline comparisons) and between women admitted in active labor per one or more of the guidelines (between‐guideline comparisons).

Design

Active labor diagnostic guidelines were retrospectively applied to cervical examination data from nulliparous women with spontaneous labor onset (n = 2573). Generalized linear models were used to determine outcome likelihoods within‐ and between‐guideline groups.

Results

At admission, 15.7%, 48.3%, and 10.1% of nulliparous women were in active labor per Friedman, NICE, and ACOG/SMFM diagnostic guidelines, respectively. Cesarean delivery was more likely among women admitted before vs in active labor per the Friedman (AOR 1.75 [95% CI 1.08‐2.82] or NICE guideline (AOR 2.55 [95% CI 1.84‐3.53]). Between guidelines, cesarean delivery was less likely among women admitted in active labor per the NICE guideline, as compared with the ACOG/SMFM guideline (AOR 0.55 [95% CI 0.35‐0.88]).

Conclusion

Many nulliparous women are admitted to the hospital before active labor onset. These women are significantly more likely to have a cesarean delivery. Diagnosing active labor before admission or before intervention to speed labor may be one component of a multi‐faceted approach to decreasing the primary cesarean rate in the United States. The NICE diagnostic guideline is more inclusive than Friedman or ACOG/SMFM guidelines and its use may be the most clinically useful for safely lowering cesarean rates.
Translation strategies, contradiction, and the theory of social representations: Why discussing needles may improve blood donor retention
Authors: Moloney Gail , Hayman Jane , Gamble Marguerite , Smith Geoff , Hall Rob
Published: February 2017

Retaining blood donors is a cost‐effective way of ensuring a safe blood supply, yet despite the plethora of research, only 5.1% of the eligible population in Australia donate blood and 40% of these do not make a second donation. We offer an alternative to traditional approaches by conceptualizing blood donation within social representations theory as socially derived symbolic knowledge with a specific focus on cognitive polyphasia and Guimelli's (1998) normative and functional dimensions. An online survey, completed by 703 residents from NSW Australia, comprised a blood donation word association task, Likert‐style questions constructed from previous word association data and contextualized blood donation statements. Individual difference scaling analysis revealed all donor groups (including non‐donors) associated blood donation with a few central, albeit contradictory ideas/beliefs. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis performed on a split data set of the Likert‐style items reiterated this finding. Interpreted through Guimelli's dichotomy, all donor groups were aware of these contradictory normative and functional ideas/beliefs but when explicitly asked, it was the functional aspect that differentiated the groups. We argue the key to retaining donors is understanding the interdependence between how blood donation is socially understood at the societal level of discourse and donor behaviour. Translational strategies for recruitment and retention are discussed.
Phenolic 1,3‐diketones attenuate lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory response by an alternative magnesium‐mediated mechanism
Authors: Zusso Morena , Mercanti Giulia , Belluti Federica , Di Martino Rita Maria Concetta , Pagetta Andrea , Marinelli Carla , Brun Paola , Ragazzi Eugenio , Lo Rita , Stifani Stefano , Giusti Pietro , Moro Stefano
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose

Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays a key role in the induction of inflammatory responses both in peripheral organs and the CNS. Curcumin exerts anti‐inflammatory functions by interfering with LPS‐induced dimerization of TLR4–myeloid differentiation protein‐2 (MD‐2) complex and suppressing pro‐inflammatory mediator release. However, the inhibitory mechanism of curcumin remains to be defined.

Experimental Approach

Binding of bis‐demethoxycurcumin (GG6) and its cyclized pyrazole analogue (GG9), lacking the 1,3‐dicarbonyl function, to TLR4–MD‐2 was determined using molecular docking simulations. The effects of these compounds on cytokine release and NF‐κB activation were examined by ELISA and fluorescence staining in LPS‐stimulated primary microglia. Interference with TLR4 dimerization was assessed by immunoprecipitation in Ba/F3 cells.

Key Results

Both curcumin analogues bound to the hydrophobic region of the MD‐2 pocket. However, only curcumin andGG6, both possessing the 1,3‐diketone moiety, inhibited LPS‐induced TLR4 dimerization, activation of NF‐κB and secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in primary microglia. Consistent with the ability of 1,3‐diketones to coordinate divalent metal ions, LPS stimulation in a low magnesium environment decreased pro‐inflammatory cytokine release and NF‐κB p65 nuclear translocation in microglia and decreased TLR4–MD‐2 dimerization in Ba/F3 cells. Curcumin andGG6also significantly reduced cytokine output in contrast to the pyrazole analogueGG9.

Conclusions and Implications

These results indicate that phenolic 1,3‐diketones, with a structural motif able to coordinate magnesium ions, can modulate LPS‐mediated TLR4–MD‐2 signalling. Taken together, these studies identify a previously uncharacterized mechanism involving magnesium, underlying the inflammatory responses to LPS.
The effect of tonsillectomy on the morbidity from recurrent tonsillitis
Authors: Douglas C.M. , Lang K. , Whitmer W.M. , Wilson J.A. , Mackenzie K.
Published: February 2017

Background

Tonsillitis is a common condition with an incidence in UK general practice of 37 per 1000 population a year.1 Recurrent tonsillitis results in significant morbidity and impacts on individuals’ quality of life. This study assesses the morbidity and quality of life of adults with recurrent tonsillitis, and the impact of surgical intervention on their health state.

Objectives

To describe disease‐specific and global quality of life for adults with recurrent tonsillitis 6 months after tonsillectomy, using two instruments: the health impact of throat problems (HITP) and EuroQol‐visual analogue scale questionnaire. To assess the overall health benefit from tonsillectomy as an intervention using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI). To assess potential predictors of tonsillectomy benefit.

Design

A prospective, observational cohort audit of patients who have fulfilled Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network (SIGN) criteria for tonsillectomy.2

Setting

Secondary care, teaching hospital.

Participants

Seventy patients (57 female), median age 20 years (range 13‐41).

Results

Median preoperative HITP was 47 (range 15‐67), compared to 4 (0‐72), (P<.001) 6 months following surgery. Median HITP difference was 39.5 (range −20 to 75). There was no significant change in global Quality of Life. Median overall 6 months GBI was 39 (−3 to 100). Patients had an average of 27 episodes of tonsillitis over a period of seven years before “achieving” tonsillectomy, significantly higher than the SIGN guidelines of three or more episodes over three years.

Conclusions

Recurrent tonsillitis causes a poor disease‐specific quality of life. Patients experienced a median of three episodes per year for seven years before tonsillectomy. Following tonsillectomy, patients had a significant improvement in their disease‐specific quality of life. Baseline HITP significantly improved after tonsillectomy. The results imply patients with recurrent acute tonsillitis may be experiencing undue delay
EXTERNAL MACROECONOMIC IMBALANCES AND FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT INFLOWS TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: Ojede Andrew , Kishan Ruby
Published: February 2017

We employ relative size of International Monetary Fund (IMF) credit as a proxy for interdependent macro variables that are associated with external macroeconomic imbalances or balance of payment (BOP) crisis to investigate how they impact foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. Relative size of IMF credit as a share of gross domestic product sends two mixed signals to multinational enterprises (MNEs). First, it is a signal that a country is facing an actual or potential BOP crisis. Second, countries that seek IMF credit typically agree to implement a set of “IMF conditionality” before financial credit is disbursed. This may signal to MNEs that policy reforms that must accompany IMF financial credit may result in ex ante positive economic outlook and stability. We find that relative size of IMF credit is negatively (positively) correlated with FDI inflows to developing countries below (above) a threshold value of economic freedom. The main implication of these findings is that MNEs may view developing countries with below average index of economic freedom as lacking institutional capabilities to implement recommended IMF policy reforms when faced with an actual or potential BOP crisis. Our results are robust across alternative model specifications and consistent with the theory of catalytic finance. (JEL F21, F23, F33)
Effect of Therapeutic and Supratherapeutic Doses of Vonoprazan on the QT/QTc Interval in a Phase I Randomized Study in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Astruc B , Jenkins H , Jenkins R
Published: February 2017

This phase I, randomized, 4‐period, 4‐sequence, double‐blind, active‐ and placebo‐controlled, crossover study assessed the effects of vonoprazan on the QT/QTc interval in healthy subjects. Subjects received single oral doses of vonoprazan 40 mg, vonoprazan 120 mg, moxifloxacin 400 mg (positive control/open label), and placebo. The primary end point was time‐matched, placebo‐corrected, baseline‐adjusted mean Fridericia‐corrected QT interval (ddQTcF). Of 64 subjects (mean age, 37.8 years; 50% male), 63 received all four regimens. One subject discontinued due to nondrug‐related adverse event of tonsillitis. Assay sensitivity was established; lower bound of the one‐sided 95% confidence interval (CI) for ddQTcF was >5 ms between 1.5 and 12 h following moxifloxacin administration. For both doses of vonoprazan, the one‐sided upper 95% CI ddQTcF did not exceed 10 ms. There was no correlation between plasma vonoprazan concentrations and increases in ddQTcF. Vonoprazan was well tolerated. No severe adverse events/deaths were reported. (European Clinical Trials Database Registry: 2011‐004003‐20.)
Fine needle aspiration cytology from a postauricular swelling
Authors: Ramteke P. , Mallick S. , Mathur S. , Jain D. , Iyer V. K.
Published: February 2017

Aspiration from recurrent post auricular swelling is always diagnostic challenge. Presence of polykaryocyte and eosinophil along with serological finding helps in appropriate diagnosis.
Healthcare costs of Type 2 diabetes in Germany
Authors: Jacobs E. , Hoyer A. , Brinks R. , Icks A. , Kuß O. , Rathmann W.
Published: February 2017

Aim

To describe for the first time the direct costs of Type 2 diabetes treatment by analysing nationwide routine data from statutory health insurance in Germany.

Methods

This cost‐of‐illness‐study was based on a 6.8% random sample of all German people with statutory health insurance (4.3 out of 70 million people). The healthcare expenses show direct per capita costs from the payer perspective. Healthcare expenses for physicians, dentists, pharmacies, hospitals, sick benefits and other healthcare costs were considered. Per capita costs, cost ratios for people with Type 2 diabetes and without diabetes as well as diabetes‐attributable costs were calculated.

Results

Per capita costs for people with Type 2 diabetes amounted to €4,957 in 2009 and €5,146 in 2010. People with Type 2 diabetes had 1.7‐fold higher health expenses than people without diabetes. The largest differences in health expenses were found for prescribed medication from pharmacies (cost ratio diabetes/no diabetes: 2.2) and inpatient treatment (1.8). Ten percent of the total statutory health insurance expense, in total €16.1 billion, was attributable to the medical care of people with Type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

This nationwide study indicates that one in 10 Euros of healthcare expenses is spent on people with Type 2 diabetes in Germany. In the future, national statutory health insurance data can be used to quantify time trends of costs in the healthcare system.
MONEY AND PRODUCT QUALITY UNDER ASYMMETRIC INFORMATION
Authors: Peng Tao
Published: February 2017

This article examines the effects of money on product quality, as well as the price pattern of heterogeneous quality goods, in a search‐theoretical monetary model with divisible money and divisible commodities. We establish the existence and uniqueness/multiplicity of monetary equilibrium in several different cases. The steady‐state equilibrium of our model displays several properties that are absent or distinct from those of previous studies. In particular, we find that under egalitarian bargaining, the Friedman rule cannot achieve socially efficient allocation due to asymmetric information. We find that the price of informed high‐quality goods is higher than the price of uninformed quality goods. We also find that an increase in inflation can improve product quality. (JEL E40)
Dual Function of Chip Calls Depending on Changing Call Rate Related to Risk Level in Territorial Pairs of White‐Eared Ground‐Sparrows
Authors: Méndez Carolina , Sandoval Luis
Published: February 2017

Different mechanisms have been proposed for encoding information into vocalizations: variation of frequency or temporal characteristics, variation in the rate of vocalization production, and use of different vocalization types. We analyze the effect of rate variation on the dual function of chip calls (contact and alarm) produced by White‐eared Ground‐sparrows (Melozone leucotis). We conducted an acoustic playback experiment where we played back 1 min of four chip call rates (12, 36, 60, 84 calls/min). We measured the response of territorial pairs using behavioral responses, and fine structural features of calls produced in response to those playbacks. White‐eared Ground‐sparrows showed more intense behavioral responses to higher than lower call rate playbacks. Both individuals of the pair approached the source of the playback stimulus faster, produced the first vocalization faster, produced more vocalizations, and spent more time close to the stimulus in higher call rate than in lower call rate playbacks. Frequency and duration characteristics of calls (chip and tseet) were similar in response to all call rate playbacks. Our playback experiment elicited different intensity of behavioral responses, suggesting that risk‐based information is encoded in call rate. Our results suggest that variation in the rate of chip call production serves a dual function in this species; calls are used at lower rates for pair contact and at higher rates for alarm/mobbing signals.
Male and Female Soldier Beetles Relax Choice for Mate Quality Across Daily Courtship Periods
Authors: Pratt Ann E. , Shure Donald J. , McLain Denson K. , Banderet Katrina
Published: February 2017

Mutual mate choice occurs when members of each sex will reject some potential mates in efforts to encounter better prospects later. The decision to reject may represent the interaction between mate preferences, mate availability, and temporal constraints. Theory predicts that mutual mate choice will favor relaxed choosiness as mate availability and time for courtship decline. We explored mutual mate choice in the soldier beetle, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus (Cantharidae), where courtship consisted of males attempting to secure evasive females. We employed field observations, laboratory experiments, and stochastic simulations to investigate the decline in choosiness over the daily courtship period, during which individuals can mate at most once. We found that reproductive success of males and females increases with mate size and mating frequency. Females biased copulations toward larger mates by attempting to evade suitors, while males biased copulations by releasing the smaller females they capture. However, late in the day males and females may increase reproductive success by accepting rather than rejecting lower quality mates to maintain high mating rates. Stochastic simulations indicated that reproductive success, the product of mating frequency and mean mate size, was maximized in males and females by incrementally reducing mate standards across daily courtship periods. In the field, large males who rejected small females early in the daily courtship period rarely did so later. Large females used less effective evasive maneuvers later in the courtship period, resulting in copulations with progressively smaller males. These results support models of mutual mate choice that predict that individuals of high quality will maximize reproductive success by relaxing choosiness as the courtship period wanes.
Visual Discrimination of Kin in Mandrills
Authors: Charpentier Marie J. E. , Harté Mélanie , Ngoubangoye Barthélémy , Herbert Anais , Kappeler Peter M.
Published: February 2017

Phenotype matching, a learning mechanism that evolved based on phenotypic cues shared among relatives, may provide animals with the ability to recognize unfamiliar kin. The generalization of this mechanism across animal species is debated, however, because appropriate tests are difficult to design due to possible confounding effects of familiarity. Hence, only a few studies have examined evidence for the existence of such a mechanism in natural populations. Here, we tested the phenotype matching hypothesis based on visual cues in a semi‐free‐ranging population of mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) that contains individuals related to different degrees and where familiarity is controlled for. Using an experimental design based on the presentation of photographs, we show that mandrills discriminate unfamiliar relatives using facial cues alone. Our results build on earlier studies, showing that primates use phenotype matching to recognize and subsequently discriminate unfamiliar kin. We suggest that facial features along with other visual and non‐visual cues provide a proximate mechanism for kin selection to operate.
Sarcopenia predicts minimal hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Hanai Tatsunori , Shiraki Makoto , Watanabe Satoshi , Kochi Takahiro , Imai Kenji , Suetsugu Atsushi , Takai Koji , Moriwaki Hisataka , Shimizu Masahito
Published: February 2017

Aim

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and sarcopenia impair the health‐related quality of life and prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis; however, the relationship between MHE and sarcopenia remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate their relationship and to identify the predictors of MHE in cirrhotic patients.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated 120 cirrhotic patients who were tested for MHE and sarcopenia. Minimal hepatic encephalopathy was diagnosed by using the computer‐aided neuropsychiatric test. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the assessment criteria recommended by the Japan Society of Hepatology. Muscle mass and muscle strength were measured by using bio‐impedance analysis and digital grip strength dynamometer. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify the predictors of MHE.

Results

Of the 120 cirrhotic patients, 28 (23%) and 32 (27%) were diagnosed with MHE and sarcopenia, respectively. The prevalence of MHE was higher in patients with sarcopenia than in those without sarcopenia (P = 0.01). By the univariate analysis, MHE was significantly complicated with sarcopenia (P < 0.01). In the multivariate analysis, sarcopenia (odds ratio = 3.31, 95% confidence interval = 1.19–9.42; P = 0.02) and serum branched‐chain amino acids levels <327 nmol/mL (odds ratio = 2.98, 95% confidence interval = 1.08–8.34; P = 0.03) were found to be associated with MHE.

Conclusions

Sarcopenia and serum branched‐chain amino acids levels were predictors of MHE. The amelioration of sarcopenia and/or amino acids imbalance may improve MHE in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of the efficacy of epidermal grafting for wound healing
Authors: Kanapathy Muholan , Smith Oliver J , Hachach‐Haram Nadine , Bystrzonowski Nicola , Mosahebi Afshin , Richards Toby
Published: February 2017

Autologous skin grafting is an important method for wound coverage; however, it is an invasive procedure and can cause donor site morbidity. Epidermal grafting (EG) enables epidermal transfer to wounds with minimal donor site morbidity. However, data to date have been heterogeneous. This study aims to synthesise the current evidence on EG for wound healing to establish the efficacy of this surgical technique. A comprehensive search in the MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases was conducted. The endpoints assessed were proportion of wounds healed and mean wound‐healing time. This systematic review was conducted and reported according to the Meta‐Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. We identified 1568 articles, of which seven articles were included in this review – a total of 209 wounds in 190 patients. The mean wound duration was 17·06 weeks (95% CI 8·57–25·55). Of these, 71·5% (95% CI 56·7–84·2) of the wounds achieved complete healing. Mean time for complete wound healing was 5·53 weeks (95% CI 3·18–7·88). The mean donor site healing time was 7·48 days (95% CI 4·83–10·13), with no reported donor site morbidity. The current data are small and lack level 1 evidence.
Survey for Zoonotic Microsporidian Pathogens in Wild Living Urban Rooks (Corvus frugilegus)
Authors: Perec‐Matysiak Agnieszka , Wesołowska Maria , Leśniańska Kinga , Buńkowska‐Gawlik Katarzyna , Hildebrand Joanna , Kicia Marta
Published: February 2017

Microsporidia are opportunistic pathogens in nature infecting all animal phyla. There is a potential risk of microsporidian spores transmission from urban rooks inhabiting some metropolitan cities to people through casual interactions. The aim of this study was to identify microsporidia species in the droppings of rooks in Wroclaw, Poland. A total of 15 collective sets of droppings were examined using nested‐PCR method. Amplification of ITS rRNA gene revealed the presence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi D, Peru 6, and Encephalitozoon hellem 1A genotypes. This study indicates that excreta of urban rooks can be an important source of human infection with these pathogens.
Moisture‐dependent physical properties of Tacca involucrata tubers
Authors: Ahemen S. A. , Raji A. O.
Published: February 2017

Tacca involucrata Schum. and Thonn., a wild and rare plant, popular for its rich natural starch, is increasingly being used for food and medicine and hence needs to be commercialized in production and processing. Processing of its tubers into starch by wet extraction is not yet mechanized due to inadequate data on the physical properties of the crop. This study focused on determining the physical properties in order to obtain data needed for design of processing and storage systems. Physical properties were determined at five levels of moisture content for three‐dimensional classes (big, medium, and small). Geometric mean diameter decreased linearly from 81.53 to 68.69 mm, 68.23 to 56.93 mm, and 51.26 to 41.10 mm for the big, medium, and small tubers, respectively, with decreasing moisture content from 57.9 to 41.8% wb while sphericity of the big, medium, and small tubers, respectively, decreased polynomially from 0.794 to 0.761, 0.814 to 0.789, and 0.831 to 0.801. True density and bulk density however increased polynomially ranging from 1129.79 to 1202.32 kg/m3 and 510.92 to 641.30 kg/m3, respectively. The angle of repose decreased polynomially with same decrease in moisture content from 41.63 ° to 35.98 °, 39.18 ° to 36.86 °, and 38.85 ° to 35.09 ° for big, medium, and small tubers, respectively. The study established that all the properties are dependent on moisture content and followed trends reported for similar agricultural products. The data are useful in machine design for processing and handling and have implications on storage.

Practical applications

Tacca involucrata is a wild plant that is used mostly for tubers and its seasonal nature due to noncommercialization is affecting its use for other purposes. This study investigated its properties with varying moisture contents with a view to understand its stability during storage. This will ensure its commercial production, availability for a longer period after harvest and eventual use for wide varieties of other applications.
Mainstream health professionals' stigmatising attitudes towards people with intellectual disabilities: a systematic review
Authors: Pelleboer‐Gunnink H. A. , Van Oorsouw W. M. W. J. , Van Weeghel J. , Embregts P. J. C. M.
Published: February 2017

Background

Equal access to mainstream healthcare services for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) still requires attention. Although recent studies suggest that health professionals hold positive attitudes towards people with ID, stigmatising attitudes may influence their efforts to serve people with ID in community healthcare practice. To stimulate inclusion in mainstream healthcare services, this systematic review focussed on barriers in attitudes of mainstream health professionals towards people with ID.

Method

Five electronic databases were systematically searched and references in full text articles were checked for studies published in the English language between January 1994 and January 2016. A social–psychological triad of cognitive, affective and behavioural dimensions of stigmatising attitudes is used to structure and discuss the results.

Results

The literature search generated 2190 records with 30 studies that passed our exclusion criteria. Studies were mostly cross‐sectional and of moderate quality. With respect to stigma, a lack of familiarity with and knowledge about people with ID was found. ID was considered as a stable condition not under personal control. Moreover, mainstream health professionals had either low or high expectations of the capabilities of people with ID. Professionals reported stress, lack of confidence, fear and anxiety, a tendency to treat people with ID differently and a lack of supporting autonomy.

Conclusions

Stigmatising attitudes towards people with ID appeared to be present among mainstream health professionals. This might affect the ongoing challenges regarding inclusion in mainstream healthcare services. To facilitate inclusion in mainstream healthcare services, it is recommended to include contact and collaboration with experts‐by‐experience in education programs of health professionals. Future research should progress beyond descriptive accounts of stigma towards exploring relationships between cognitive, affective and behavioural dimensions as pointers for intervention. Finally, inclusion would benefit from an understanding of ‘equal’ treatment that means reasonable adjustments instead of undifferentiated treatment.