bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Menu labelling and healthy food choices: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Oliveira Renata Carvalho , Fernandes Ana Carolina , da Costa Proença Rossana Pacheco , Hartwell Heather , Rodrigues Vanessa Mello , Colussi Claudia Flemming , Fiates Giovanna M.R.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of different menu labelling formats on healthy food choices in a real restaurant setting.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional, randomised and controlled parallel-group trial was conducted in Brazil in 2013. In total, 313 university students were randomly assigned to one of three parallel groups with different menu labelling formats. Of these, data from 233 students were analysed. The others did not attend and were excluded. Intervention Group 1 (n=88) received information in the form of a traffic light plus guideline daily amounts, while Intervention Group 2 (n=74) was presented with ingredients list plus highlighted symbols (IL+S). The control group (n=71) received a menu with no menu labelling. Data were collected on one weekday in a restaurant setting. Trial outcomes were assessed by healthy food choices.

Findings

Healthy food choices of students who received the menu showing IL+S were significantly higher when compared to the other groups. This same menu labelling format positively affected healthy food choices in women, not overweight participants and in participants who often ate out more than twice a week.

Originality/value

Menu labelling format presenting ingredients list and highlighted symbols was positively associated with healthy food choices among the university students in Brazil. This type of labelling could be adopted in future legislation on menu labelling in Brazil and around the world.
Perceptions and experiences of early-adopting registered dietitians in integrating nutrigenomics into practice
Authors: Abrahams Mariette , Frewer Lynn J. , Bryant Eleanor , Stewart-Knox Barbara
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions and experiences of early adopters of the technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Registered dietitians (RDs) (n=14) were recruited from the UK, Canada, South Africa, Australia, Mexico and Israel. Six qualitative interviews and two focus groups were conducted online using a conference calling platform. Data were recorded, transcribed and thematically analyzed.

Findings

Early adopters of nutrigenomics (NGx) were experienced, self-efficacious RDs who actively sought knowledge of NGx through communication with one another and the broader scientific community. They considered NGx an extension of current practice and believed RDs had the skills to deliver it. Perceived barriers to widening the application of NGx were linked to skepticism among the wider dietetics community. Proliferation of unregulated websites offering tests and diets was considered “pseudoscience” and detrimental to dietetics fully embracing NGx. Lack of a sustainable public health model for the delivery of NGx was also perceived to hinder progress. Results are discussed with reference to “diffusion of innovation theory.”

Originality/value

The views of RDs who practice NGx have not been previously studied. These data highlight requirements for future dietetic training provision and more inclusive service delivery models. Regulation of NGx services and formal recognition by professional bodies is needed to address the research/practice translation gap. Further research is required to inquire as to the views of the wider dietetics profession.
The traditional Chinese philosophies in inter-cultural leadership
Authors: Lin Li , Li Peter Ping , Roelfsema Hein
Published: February 2018

Purpose

As the global presence of Chinese firms grows, increasing numbers of Chinese managers are working abroad as expatriates. However, little attention has been paid to such Chinese expatriate managers and their leadership challenges in an inter-cultural context, especially across a large cultural distance. To fill the gap in the literature concerning the leadership challenges for expatriate managers in an inter-cultural context, the purpose of this paper is to elucidate the leadership styles of Chinese expatriate managers from the perspectives of three traditional Chinese philosophies (i.e. Confucianism, Taoism, and Legalism) in the inter-cultural context of the Netherlands.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this qualitative study were collected via semi-structured, open-ended, narrative interviews with 30 Chinese expatriate managers in the Netherlands.

Findings

The results clearly show that the leadership style of Chinese expatriate managers is deeply rooted in the three traditional Chinese philosophies of Confucianism, Taoism, and Legalism, even in an inter-cultural context. Specifically, the study reveals two salient aspects of how Chinese expatriate managers frame and interact with a foreign cultural context from the perspectives of traditional Chinese philosophies. First, the Chinese expatriate managers reported an initial cultural shock related to frictions between the foreign cultural context and Confucianism or Taoism, but less so in the case of Legalism. Second, the Chinese expatriate managers also reported that their interactions with the Dutch culture are best described as a balance between partial conflict and partial complementarity (thus, a duality). In this sense, the leadership style of Chinese expatriate managers is influenced jointly by the three traditional Chinese philosophies and certain elements of the foreign cultural context. This is consistent with the Chinese perspective of yin-yang balancing.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to offer a more nuanced and highly contextualized understanding of leadership in the unique case of expatriate managers from an emerging market (e.g. China) in an advanced economy (e.g. the Netherlands). The authors call for more research to apply the unique perspective of yin-yang balancing in an inter-cultural context. The authors posit that this approach represents the most salient implication of this study. For practical implications, the authors argue that expatriate leaders should carefully manage the interplay between their deep-rooted home-country philosophies and their salient host-country culture. Reflecting on traditional philosophies in another culture can facilitate inter-cultural leadership training for Chinese expatriates.
Store layout effects on consumer behavior in 3D online stores
Authors: Krasonikolakis Ioannis , Vrechopoulos Adam , Pouloudi Athanasia , Dimitriadis Sergios
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Positioned in the e-retailing field, this study aims to investigate the effect of the retail store’s atmosphere on consumer behavior in 3D online shopping environments, focusing on store layout as a critical influential factor.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a mixed research method approach that includes two complementary studies. First, a three-round Delphi study with domain experts is used to develop a store layout classification scheme (Study 1), resulting in five distinct types of store layout. Subsequently, 3D online retail stores that use the five layouts are designed and developed. These serve as treatments of a laboratory experimental design, which is used to assess layout impact on a number of attitudinal and behavioral variables (Study 2).

Findings

Five distinct types of store layout have been identified in Study 1, and their distinctive features are presented. The findings of Study 2 indicate that online shopping enjoyment, entertainment and ease of navigation are influenced by the store layout types of 3D online environments. Specifically, the “avant-garde” layout type facilitates the ease of navigation of customers in the store and provides a superior online customer experience. The “warehouse”’ adopts long aisles for the display of products, which simplifies the comparison of products, whereas the “boutique” layout was found to be the best in terms of shopping enjoyment and entertainment. The “department” layout shares many common characteristics with traditional department stores, providing an entertaining and enjoyable store, whereas the “pragmatic” layout emphasizes low system requirements.

Practical implications

The paper presents characteristics that make store layouts effective for different aspects of online customers’ experience and identifies opportunities that 3D online store designers and retailers can explore for the provision of enhanced, customized services to online customers.

Originality/value

This paper examines recent technological developments in store design and visual merchandising. It identifies five layout types of 3D online stores, which are different from those of brick–and–mortar and 2D online stores, and investigates their impact on consumer behavior. Further, the paper examines how each layout type influences online shopping enjoyment, entertainment, ease of navigation, online customer experience and, in turn, purchase and word-of-mouth intentions. Finally, the paper examines the moderating role of telepresence. Individuals with high sense of telepresence conceive 3D environments as “real” and are more concerned about the attributes that trigger the sense of enjoyment they experience while browsing.
The context of choice as boundary condition for gender differences in brand choice considerations
Authors: Friedmann Enav , Lowengart Oded
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Marketers often assume that functional, hedonic and socially conspicuous utilities in choosing a brand differ for men and women, thus different marketing strategies are required for each gender. To date, most of the research studies have used self-reported measures when shopping in general or in regard to a single product. The purpose of this research is to examine this question using two different contexts of brand choice: single choice evaluation (SCE) and brand selection context (BSC). This assessment will clarify whether male and female utilities when choosing a brand are indeed inherent and consistent.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using surveys in three studies (N = 923). Conjoint analysis and ICLV (integrated choice and latent variables) models were examined.

Findings

BSC analysis that more closely mimics real-life contexts revealed that the consideration of these utilities is generally similar for men and women, while the SCE analysis showed significant gender differences.

Practical implications

In the context of choosing between brands, stereotypical gender targeting may be ineffective and might not be the best allocation of resources for marketers.

Social implications

Gender stereotypes in advertising seem to reconstruct differences that are not significant in a realistic brand selection context.

Originality/value

The context of choice was found to be a condition boundary for gender differences in brand choice considerations. Gender differences are not evolutionary or inherent.
Stresses over surface water sources in a human dominated environment
Authors: Chandrasekara Chandrasekara Mudiyanselage Kanchana Nishanthi Kumari , Weerasinghe K.D.N. , Pathirana Sumith , Piyadasa Ranjana U.K.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The Hamilton canal in the western province of Sri Lanka is a man-made canal situated in an area with immense anthropogenic pressures. The purpose of this study is to identify the quality variations of the water in Hamilton canal and human perception about the present status of the water of the canal.

Design/methodology/approach

Sampling has been carried out in seven locations in the canal during dry and wet periods for water quality analysis. In situ field-testing and laboratory analysis have been conducted for physicochemical, heavy metal, oil and grease analysis of water. Only Pb, Cd, oil and grease were tested in the canal sediments. The samples were analyzed as per the standard methods of the American Public Health Association (APHA) Manual: 20th edition. A semi-structured questionnaire survey has been carried out to assess the human perception on the water of the canal.

Findings

The results revealed that average EC, Turbidity, Total Hardness, TDS, F−, Fe2+, Cl−, SO42− and PO43− of the canal water remained above the threshold limits of inland water standards. Concentrations of Pb and Cd were also above the standards in some locations. Oil and grease were in a very high level in water and sediments.

Originality/value

The water of the canal has been affected by nutrient, heavy metal and oil and grease pollution at present. Discharge of domestic, industrial, municipal wastes and sewage are the prominent reasons which have encouraged the deterioration of the quality of water in the canal.
Deciphering drivers of efficiency of bank branches
Authors: Saha Asish , Hock-Eam Lim , Yeok Siew Goh
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically assess the efficiency (transaction efficiency, intermediation efficiency and profit efficiency) of the retail branches of a large bank and identify the driver parameters of the same.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the non-parametric data envelopment analysis approach to analyze the financial performance of 247 branches in 2014, spread over 14 states of a country. After checking for possible misspecification bias, the authors use the fractional regression approach in the second stage of the analysis to assess possible drivers of the efficiency of bank branches in terms of the size of business, funding mix, per employee contribution to business and profit and business per transaction. In addition, the authors included spatial parameters like economic condition and competitive position of branches in their analysis.

Findings

The authors find that on an overall basis, there might be a deliberate initiative of the top management of the bank to over-branch in order to improve the output at the aggregate level which is above the level of cost minimization. The study clearly indicates to the top management that low-cost deposit is a significant driver of branch efficiency apart from business per transaction, income per employee. Moreover, it is found that branches located in areas of high branch concentration are more efficient, and local economic condition does drive efficiency of branches.

Practical implications

The authors address the dilemma faced by the top management of banks in arriving at an appropriate scientific benchmark to assess the performance of branches based on the drivers of efficiency and initiate suitable strategic interventions to improve their efficiency.

Originality/value

The integrated assessment of the efficiency of bank branches and arriving at the drivers of efficiency using the fractional regression model framework are likely to prove beneficial in the benchmarking exercise of the performance of bank branches.
Agricultural innovation and inclusive value-chain development: a review
Authors: Devaux Andre , Torero Maximo , Donovan Jason , Horton Douglas
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to take stock of the current state of knowledge about inclusive value-chain development (VCD) in the context of international agricultural research; and second, to draw out the implications for future research and action.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a review of recent research papers authored by professionals affiliated with international agricultural research centers and their partners in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Findings

The studies reviewed in the paper identify the opportunities emerging from new and expanding markets for agricultural products and challenges to smallholder participation in these markets. It identifies key attributes of successful value-chain interventions, emphasizing the importance of combining value-chain approaches with other approaches, including those emerging from innovation systems and rural livelihoods frameworks. Methods are offered for evaluating complex value-chain interventions.

Research limitations/implications

The paper summarizes the state of knowledge as of early 2016 in a dynamic field. Important contributions to knowledge may have been made since then.

Originality/value

The paper summarizes the state of knowledge in the field, and identifies emerging issues and policy implications, knowledge gaps, and priorities for future applied research.
From unburnt to salvage logged: Quantifying bird responses to different levels of disturbance severity
Authors: Lindenmayer David B. , McBurney Lachlan , Blair David , Wood Jeff , Banks Sam C.
Published: February 2018

Forests world‐wide are increasingly subject to natural and human disturbances, including wildfires and logging of varying intensity and frequency. Understanding how biodiversity responds to different kinds and combinations of natural and human disturbance is critical to enhanced forest management.

We completed an 8‐year study of bird responses across a spectrum of disturbance types in Australian mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans) forests following wildfires in 2009.

We found evidence of a gradient in bird species richness over the study duration. It was highest in unlogged and unburned (least disturbed) sites, decreasing through burnt unlogged forest (subject to high or low intensity fire), lower still in logged forest, and lowest in the most disturbed sites (subject to salvage logging without island retention). Retention of uncut islands within logged areas increased bird species richness above that found in areas that had been clearcut.

The greatest rate of increase per year after disturbance in bird species richness was on sites burnt by high‐severity fire but which were not subject to any form of logging. The level of disturbance affected the composition of the bird assemblage. Sites that were unlogged and unburned were more likely to support species that were larger, more mobile, and nested at greater heights above the ground.

Synthesis and applications. All forms of logging on burned sites impaired recovery in bird species richness relative to sites subject to high‐severity fire. Alterations in stand structure and plant species composition (and hence modification in bird habitat suitability) due to logging are the most likely reasons for reduced bird species richness and delayed patterns of recovery. This study highlights the importance for native bird species of retaining patches of unlogged forest not only within otherwise clearcut forest, but also in areas that are burned and subject to salvage logging. We therefore suggest that the adoption of retention harvesting be expanded to include stands disturbed by wildfires.
Using satellite AIS to improve our understanding of shipping and fill gaps in ocean observation data to support marine spatial planning
Authors: Metcalfe Kristian , Bréheret Nathalie , Chauvet Eva , Collins Tim , Curran Bryan K. , Parnell Richard J. , Turner Rachel A. , Witt Matthew J. , Godley Brendan J.
Published: February 2018

A key stage underpinning marine spatial planning (MSP) involves mapping the spatial distribution of ecological processes and biological features as well the social and economic interests of different user groups. One sector, merchant shipping (vessels that transport cargo or passengers), however, is often poorly represented in MSP due to a perceived lack of fine‐scale spatially explicit data to support decision‐making processes.

Here, using the Republic of Congo as an example, we show how publicly accessible satellite‐derived automatic identification system (S‐AIS) data can address gaps in ocean observation data for shipping at a national scale. We also demonstrate how fine‐scale (0.05 km2 resolution) spatial data layers derived from S‐AIS (intensity, occupancy) can be used to generate maps of vessel pressure to provide an indication of patterns of impact on the marine environment and potential for conflict with other ocean user‐groups.

We reveal that passenger vessels, offshore service vessels, bulk carrier and cargo vessels and tankers account for 93.7% of all vessels and vessel traffic annually, and that these sectors operate in a combined area equivalent to 92% of Congo's exclusive economic zone—far exceeding the areas allocated for other user groups (conservation, fisheries and petrochemicals). We also show that the shallow coastal waters and habitats of the continental shelf are subject to more persistent pressure associated with shipping, and that the potential for conflict among user groups is likely to be greater with fisheries, whose zones are subject to the highest vessel pressure scores than with conservation or petrochemical sectors.

Synthesis and applications. Shipping dominates ocean use, and so excluding this sector from decision‐making could lead to increased conflict among user groups, poor compliance and negative environmental impacts. This study demonstrates how satellite‐derived Automatic Identification System data can provide a comprehensive mechanism to fill gaps in ocean observation data and visualise patterns of vessel behaviour and potential threats to better support marine spatial planning at national scales.
Assessment of voice, speech and communication changes associated with cervical spinal cord injury
Authors: Johansson Kerstin , Seiger Åke , Forsén Malin , Holmgren Nilsson Jeanette , Hartelius Lena , Schalling Ellika
Published: February 2018

Background

Respiratory muscle impairment following cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) may lead to reduced voice function, although the individual variation is large. Voice problems in this population may not always receive attention since individuals with CSCI face other, more acute and life‐threatening issues that need/receive attention. Currently there is no consensus on the tasks suitable to identify the specific voice impairments and functional voice changes experienced by individuals with CSCI.

Aims

To examine which voice/speech tasks identify the specific voice and communication changes associated with CSCI, habitual and maximum speech performance of a group with CSCI was compared with that of a healthy control group (CG), and the findings were related to respiratory function and to self‐reported voice problems.

Methods & Procedures

Respiratory, aerodynamic, acoustic and self‐reported voice data from 19 individuals (nine women and 10 men, aged 23–59 years, heights = 153–192 cm) with CSCI (levels C3–C7) were compared with data from a CG consisting of 19 carefully matched non‐injured people (nine women and 10 men, aged 19–59 years, heights = 152–187 cm).

Outcomes & Results

Despite considerable variability of performance, highly significant differences between the group with CSCI and the CG were found in maximum phonation time, maximum duration of breath phrases, maximum sound pressure level and maximum voice area in voice‐range profiles (all p = .000). Subglottal pressure was lower and phonatory stability was reduced in some of the individuals with CSCI, but differences between the groups were not statistically significant. Six of 19 had voice handicap index (VHI) scores above 20 (the cut‐off for voice disorder). Individuals with a vital capacity below 50% of the expected for an equivalent reference individual performed significantly worse than participants with more normal vital capacity. Completeness and level of injury seemed to impact vocal function in some individuals.

Conclusions & Implications

A combination of maximum performance speech tasks, respiratory tasks and self‐reported information on voice problems help to identify individuals with reduced voice function following CSCI. Early identification of individuals with voice changes post‐CSCI, and introducing appropriate rehabilitation strategies, may help to minimize development of maladaptive voice behaviours such as vocal strain, which can lead to further impairments and limitations to communication participation.
Exploring Value‐Based Management Sophistication: The Role of Potential Economic Benefits and Institutional Influence
Authors: Firk Sebastian , Schmidt Torben , Wolff Michael
Published: February 2018

The complexity of value‐based management (VBM) is often not captured in empirical research. In particular, potential differences in the extent of VBM implementation are not considered. Firms are predominantly classified dichotomously into either VBM “adopters” or “non‐adopters.” In this study, we aim to fill this gap by introducing a framework to assess differences in the extent of VBM implementation (VBM‐sophistication) based on publicly available data. This approach enables us to study determinants of VBM‐sophistication based on a hand‐collected data set comprising 2,683 firm‐year observations from 16 European countries between 2005 and 2014. Specifically, we investigate (i) whether potential economic benefits associated with VBM implementation lead to a higher level of VBM‐sophistication, and (ii) if this relation is influenced by extra‐organizational institutions (e.g., industry norms). Our results indicate that companies exhibit higher VBM‐sophistication if certain firm characteristics that increase the potential economic benefits of VBM are present. Moreover, our study provides evidence that this effect is enhanced by extra‐organizational institutions that pressure and support firms in realizing the potential benefits of higher VBM‐sophistication.
Scandinavian SSAI clinical practice guideline on choice of inotropic agent for patients with acute circulatory failure
Authors: Møller M. H. , Granholm A. , Junttila E. , Haney M. , Oscarsson‐Tibblin A. , Haavind A. , Laake J. H. , Wilkman E. , Sverrisson K. Ö. , Perner A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Adult critically ill patients often suffer from acute circulatory failure and those with low cardiac output may be treated with inotropic agents. The aim of this Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine guideline was to present patient‐important treatment recommendations on this topic.

Methods

This guideline was developed according to GRADE. We assessed the following subpopulations of patients with shock: (1) shock in general, (2) septic shock, (3) cardiogenic shock, (4) hypovolemic shock, (5) shock after cardiac surgery, and (6) other types of shock, including vasodilatory shock. We assessed patient‐important outcome measures, including mortality and serious adverse reactions.

Results

For all patients, we suggest against the routine use of any inotropic agent, including dobutamine, as compared to placebo/no treatment (very low quality of evidence). For patients with shock in general, and in those with septic and other types of shock, we suggest using dobutamine rather than levosimendan or epinephrine (very low quality of evidence). For patients with cardiogenic shock and in those with shock after cardiac surgery, we suggest using dobutamine rather than milrinone (very low quality of evidence). For the other clinical questions, we refrained from giving any recommendations or suggestions.

Conclusions

We suggest against the routine use of any inotropic agent in adult patients with shock. If used, we suggest using dobutamine rather than other inotropic agents for the majority of patients, however, the quality of evidence was very low, implying high uncertainty on the balance between the benefits and harms of inotropic agents.
Mental Health–related Emergency Department Visits Associated With Cannabis in Colorado
Authors: Hall Katelyn E. , Monte Andrew A. , Chang Tae , Fox Jacob , Brevik Cody , Vigil Daniel I. , Van Dyke Mike , James Katherine A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Cannabis legalization in Colorado resulted in increased cannabis‐associated health care utilization. Our objective was to examine cooccurrence of cannabis and mental health diagnostic coding in Colorado emergency department (ED) discharges and replicate the study in a subpopulation of ED visits where cannabis involvement and psychiatric diagnosis were confirmed through medical review.

Methods

We collected statewide ED International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification diagnoses from the Colorado Hospital Association and a subpopulation of ED visits from a large, academic hospital from 2012 to 2014. Diagnosis codes identified visits associated with mental health and cannabis. Codes for mental health conditions and cannabis were confirmed by manual records review in the academic hospital subpopulation. Prevalence ratios (PRs) of mental health ED discharges were calculated to compare cannabis‐associated visits to those without cannabis. Rates of mental health and cannabis‐associated ED discharges were examined over time.

Results

Statewide data demonstrated a fivefold higher prevalence of mental health diagnoses in cannabis‐associated ED visits (PR = 5.35, 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.27–5.43) compared to visits without cannabis. The hospital subpopulation supported this finding with a fourfold higher prevalence of psychiatric complaints in cannabis attributable ED visits (PR = 4.87, 95% CI = 4.36–5.44) compared to visits not attributable to cannabis. Statewide rates of ED visits associated with both cannabis and mental health significantly increased from 2012 to 2014 from 224.5 to 268.4 per 100,000 (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In Colorado, the prevalence of mental health conditions in ED visits with cannabis‐associated diagnostic codes is higher than in those without cannabis. There is a need for further research determining if these findings are truly attributed to cannabis or merely coincident with concurrent increased use and availability.
Stress augments the rewarding memory of cocaine via the activation of brainstem‐reward circuitry
Authors: Shinohara Fumiya , Asaoka Yuta , Kamii Hironori , Minami Masabumi , Kaneda Katsuyuki
Published: February 2018

Effects of stress on the reward system are well established in the literature. Although previous studies have revealed that stress can reinstate extinguished addictive behaviors related to cocaine, the effects of stress on the rewarding memory of cocaine are not fully understood. Here, we provide evidence that stress potentiates the expression of rewarding memory of cocaine via the activation of brainstem‐reward circuitry using a cocaine‐induced conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm combined with restraint stress in rats. The rats exposed to 30‐minute restraint stress immediately before posttest exhibited significantly larger CPP scores compared with non‐stressed rats. Intra‐laterodorsal tegmental nucleus (LDT) microinjection of a β or α2 adrenoceptor antagonist attenuated the stress‐induced enhancement of cocaine CPP. Consistent with this observation, intra‐LDT microinjection of a β or α2 adrenoceptor agonist before posttest increased cocaine CPP. Additionally, intra‐ventral tegmental area (VTA) microinjection of antagonists for the muscarinic acetylcholine, nicotinic acetylcholine or glutamate receptors attenuated the stress‐induced enhancement of cocaine CPP. Finally, intra‐medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) microinjection of a D1 receptor antagonist also reduced the stress‐induced enhancement of cocaine CPP. These findings suggest a mechanism wherein the LDT is activated by noradrenergic input from the locus coeruleus, leading to the activation of VTA dopamine neurons via both cholinergic and glutamatergic transmission and the subsequent excitation of the mPFC to enhance the memory of cocaine‐induced reward value.
Ticks on snakes: The ecological correlates of ectoparasite infection in free‐ranging snakes in tropical Australia
Authors: Natusch Daniel J. D. , Lyons Jessica A. , Dubey Sylvain , Shine Richard
Published: February 2018

Parasites profoundly influence the lives of their hosts, yet the dynamics of host–parasite interactions are poorly understood – especially in reptiles. We examined the ecological correlates of parasitism by ixodid ticks in an assemblage of 10 snake species in tropical Australia. In total, we recorded 3803 ticks on 1841 individual snakes of six species (no ticks were found on the other species). Molecular analyses confirmed the tropical reptile tick (Amblyomma fimbriatum: Ixodidae) to be the most common snake tick at our study site, with inter‐ and intraspecific variation in tick prevalence and intensity. Tick attachment sites were random on most snake species, but both male and female ticks congregated on the heads of the colubrid snake Boiga irregularis and the python Simalia amethistina. In these same species, tick loads were higher on snakes captured in woodland than in rainforest. Females of two python species (Aspidites melanocephalus and S. amethistina) had higher tick loads than did males. In B. irregularis, individuals captured in the dry season had higher tick loads than those captured in the wet season. In most parasitized snake species, larger individuals had greater tick loads. Data from snake recaptures confirmed individual tick burdens frequently varied, with little correlation between tick loads on the same snake at successive captures (except for B. irregularis). Finally, tick intensity was not correlated with (and thus, presumably did not influence) the body condition of any snake species in our study. Use of specific types of refuge sites may strongly influence tick loads on snakes in this system.
Factors influencing decision‐making processes for unwell residents in residential aged care: Hospital transfer or Residential InReach referral?
Authors: Amadoru Sanka , Rayner Jo‐Anne , Joseph Rajni , Yates Paul
Published: February 2018

Objective

To investigate decision‐making around hospital transfer and/or referral of residents to a Residential InReach (RiR) service in north‐eastern metropolitan Melbourne, Australia, from the perspectives of residential aged care facility (RACF) staff, general practitioners (GPs) and RiR registered nurses (RNs).

Methods

Thirty‐one staff from eight RACFs, five GPs and four RiR RNs participated in individual or group interviews.

Results

Residential aged care facility staff and GPs valued and relied upon RiR to manage unwell residents. Thematic analysis identified RiR utilisation was driven by the following: (i) complexity of decision‐making processes in RACFs; (ii) variability in facility‐based medical and nursing care; and (iii) impact of RiR service outcomes on patients and referrers.

Conclusion

Availability of timely and appropriate medical and nursing care in RACFs was reported to influence transfers to the hospital and/or referrals to RiR. RiR was used to complement or substitute usual care available to residents. Further research and improvements in RACF and RiR resources are required.
Semen quality associated with subsequent hospitalizations – Can the effect be explained by socio‐economic status and lifestyle factors?
Authors: Latif T. , Lindahl‐Jacobsen R. , Mehlsen J. , Eisenberg M. L. , Holmboe S. A. , Pors K. , Brinth L. , Skouby S. O. , Jørgensen N. , Jensen T. K.
Published: February 2018

Semen quality is suggested to be a universal biomarker for future health. Previous studies have mostly been registry based excluding the possibility to address the importance of lifestyle, fertility status, health and socio‐economic status. We aimed to investigate whether the association between semen quality and subsequent risk of hospitalization could be explained by differences in occupation, education, fertility, cryptorchidism, BMI or smoking; 1423 men with first semen sample at Fertility Clinic, Frederiksberg Hospital, Denmark, from 1977 to 2010 responded to a questionnaire in 2012 about current health, lifestyle, educational level and occupation. They were followed in the Danish National Patient Registry to first‐time hospitalizations using ICD‐8 and ICD‐10 classification. Data were analysed by Cox proportional hazard regression models to adjust for the possible confounding factors. We found a significant higher risk of being hospitalized with decreasing sperm concentrations (0–15 mill/mL: HR1.78, 95% CI:1.51–2.09; 16–50 mill/mL: HR 1.37 95% CI: 1.17–1.60; 51–100 mill/mL: HR1.25 95% CI: 1.07–1.45). Same significant association of being hospitalized with decreasing total sperm counts was seen. The dose–response increase in risk in hospitalization with decreasing sperm concentration and total sperm count remained constant after further individual adjustment for occupation, marital status, fertility, cryptorchidism, BMI or smoking. The association between semen quality and subsequent morbidity was not explained by differences in lifestyle, behavioural or fertility status. We were unable to adjust for all possible confounders simultaneously due to limited sample size, and reverse causation is a possible explanation as information about education and lifestyle was obtained after semen analysis and hospitalizations occurred and may have changed as consequence of both. Semen quality may be a universal biomarker for future health not explained by lifestyle and socio‐economic status, but this needs to be addressed further in future studies.
Neoliberalisation from the Ground Up: Insurgent Capital, Regional Struggle, and the Assetisation of Land
Authors: Ward Callum , Swyngedouw Erik
Published: February 2018

In this paper we argue that “assetisation” has been a central axis through which both neoliberalisation and financialisation have encroached in the post‐Fordist era. We focus on the mobilisation of land as a financial asset in northwest England's former industrial heartlands, offering an account of how property developer the Peel Group came to dominate the land and port infrastructure of the region through aggressive debt‐led expansion and, in particular, a hostile takeover of the Manchester Ship Canal for its land‐bank. In doing so, we illustrate how the capture of resources, especially land, by private corporations has shaped both substance and process of neoliberalisation from the ground up. By focusing on transformative struggles over land we contribute to research agendas attempting to understand the systemically dispossessive nature of assetisation, its relationship to fictitious capital formation, and the way such neoliberalising transformations are produced through grounded and situated socio‐spatial struggles.
Risk factors for cesarean delivery and adverse neonatal outcome in twin pregnancies attempting vaginal delivery
Authors: Schachter‐Safrai Natali , Karavani Gilad , Haj‐Yahya Rani , Ofek Shlomai Noa , Porat Shay
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Twin vaginal delivery presents a unique clinical challenge for obstetricians. The Twin Birth Study demonstrated the safety of planned vaginal delivery regarding neonatal outcomes. However, that study lacked a description of the risk factors associated with and the outcome of unplanned cesarean section. The aim of this study is to identify potential risk factors for cesarean section and delivery related neonatal morbidity and mortality in women with twin pregnancy attempting vaginal delivery.

Material and methods

A retrospective cohort study including 1070 women with twin pregnancy that underwent a trial of labor between 2003 and 2015. The study population was divided according to the mode of delivery: vaginal delivery, combined vaginal‐cesarean and intrapartum cesarean delivery of both twins. Several risk factors and neonatal outcomes were examined by both univariate analysis and multinomial logistic regression analysis.

Results

The rate of vaginal delivery of both twins was 88.3%, whereas the rates of combined vaginal cesarean and unplanned cesarean delivery were 4.6% and 7.1%, respectively. Nulliparity and nonvertex presentation of twin B were found to be independently associated with cesarean delivery for both twins. Additionally, nonvertex presentation of twin B was independently associated with combined vaginal‐cesarean delivery. The proportion of neonates with Apgar score <7 at 5 min was increased for both twins in the combined vaginal‐cesarean group compared with those delivered by the vaginal route alone.

Conclusion

Nulliparity and nonvertex presentation of twin B were found to be associated with intrapartum cesarean delivery in twin pregnancies.
Antileishmanial Activity, Cytotoxicity and Mechanism of Action of Clioquinol Against Leishmania infantum and Leishmania amazonensis Species
Authors: Tavares Grasiele de Sousa Vieira , Mendonça Débora Vasconcelos Costa , Lage Daniela Pagliara , Granato Juliana da Trindade , Ottoni Flaviano Melo , Ludolf Fernanda , Chávez‐Fumagalli Miguel Angel , Duarte Mariana Costa , Tavares Carlos Alberto Pereira , Alves Ricardo José , Coimbra Elaine Soares , Coelho Eduardo Antonio Ferraz
Published: February 2018

In this study, a quinoline derivate, clioquinol (5‐chloro‐7‐iodoquinolin‐8‐ol), was evaluated against Leishmania amazonensis and Leishmania infantum promastigotes and amastigotes. The cytotoxicity in murine macrophages and human red blood cells, as well as the efficacy in treating infected macrophages and the inhibition of infection using pre‐treated parasites were also evaluated. Results showed that clioquinol inhibited L. amazonensis and L. infantum promastigotes with effective concentration 50% (EC50) values of 2.55 ± 0.25 and 1.44 ± 0.35 μg/mL, respectively, and of 1.88 ± 0.13 and 0.98 ± 0.17 μg/mL against axenic amastigotes, respectively. The cytotoxic EC50 concentrations of clioquinol in murine macrophages and human red blood cells were, respectively, 255 ± 23 and 489 ± 20 μg/mL. With these results, the selectivity index was calculated, showing values of 99.9 and 177.1 against promastigotes, respectively, and of 135.6 and 260.1 against axenic amastigotes, respectively. Significant reductions in the percentage of infected macrophages after treatment using clioquinol were also observed, as well as when parasites were pre‐treated with clioquinol and used to infect murine macrophages. The mechanism of action of clioquinol was investigated in L. amazonensis, and results revealed morphological and biochemical alterations in the clioquinol‐treated parasites, including reduction in cell volume, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, increase in the ROS production and rupture of the plasma membrane. The externalization of phosphatidylserine (PS) at the cell surface was evaluated in treated parasites that had been doubly labelled with annexin and propidium iodide (PI). The results showed no significant difference for PS exposure when compared to the untreated control, although a significant increase in the PI/annexin V‐labelled cell population was found in the treated parasites. Results suggest that clioquinol induces a discontinuity of the parasite membrane, possibly related to a characteristic event of cell death caused by necrosis. This study demonstrates, for the first time, the antileishmanial activity of clioquinol against two relevant Leishmania species and suggests that the mitochondria of the parasites may be a possible biological target leading to parasite necrosis. Our findings suggest that clioquinol may have a potential application in treatment of leishmaniasis and further studies should be performed in infected mammalian hosts.
Secondary transfer effect among children: The role of social dominance orientation and outgroup attitudes
Authors: Vezzali Loris , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Stathi Sofia , Cadamuro Alessia , Lášticová Barbara , Andraščiková Simona
Published: February 2018

Research has provided evidence that the effects of intergroup contact on prejudice reduction are not limited to the outgroup one has contact with (primary outgroup). Rather, they extend to secondary outgroups uninvolved in the contact situation (secondary transfer effect; Pettigrew, 2009, Social Psychology, 40, 55). We aimed to provide the first empirical evidence for the emergence of the secondary transfer effect among children. Majority (Italian) and minority (with an immigrant background) elementary schoolchildren were administered a questionnaire including measures of contact with the primary outgroup (minority children for the majority, majority children for the minority), prejudice towards the primary outgroup and towards a dissimilar secondary outgroup (disabled children), and social dominance orientation. Results revealed that among the majority group, contact with the primary outgroup had indirect associations with reduced prejudice towards the secondary outgroup. Specifically, we found evidence for sequential mediation by social dominance orientation and prejudice towards the primary outgroup. No secondary transfer effects emerged among minority group members. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of the findings, arguing for the importance of identifying the core processes driving the secondary transfer effect.
The prevalence of overweight and obesity levels among forensic inpatients with learning disability
Authors: Russell Rachel , Chester Verity , Watson James , Nyakunuwa Canisius , Child Lucy , McDermott Mary , Drake Sharon , Alexander Regi T.
Published: February 2018

Accessible Summary

This study looked at how many people with learning disabilities in a forensic unit were overweight or obese, and whether people put on weight in the service.

The study showed that lots of people put on weight while they were in the service. It might be due to people struggling to exercise and the food provided in hospitals.

This research matters to people with learning disabilities because being overweight and obese can lead to other physical issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. Being overweight also affects how confident a person is and can lead to feeling depressed.

We now need to look at ways we can support people with learning disabilities in all settings to stay healthy, enjoy exercise, and lose weight if they want to.

Background

Inpatient mental health settings have been described as “obesogenic,” due to factors including psychotropic medication, high‐calorie food provision, restricted physical activity and sedentary lifestyles. No research has investigated the prevalence of obesity among forensic inpatients with learning disability, despite this population's increased risk.

Materials and Methods

The weight and body mass index (BMI) data of 46 inpatients (15 women and 31 men) within a specialist learning disability forensic service was examined on, and during admission.

Results

Only 13% of inpatients were a normal weight at admission, whereas 87% were overweight or obese. During admission, 61% gained weight, and 2% maintained. However, 37% lost weight, although many of this group remained overweight/obese. Women gained more weight during their admission, but were also more successful in losing weight. There was no correlation between length of stay and weight.

Conclusions

The results highlight the need for effective, gender‐sensitive weight management interventions within similar services nationally.
A long‐term follow‐up study of the Hand Eczema Trial (HET): a randomized clinical trial of a secondary preventive programme introduced to Danish healthcare workers
Authors: Graversgaard Christine , Agner Tove , Jemec Gregor B. E. , Thomsen Simon F. , Ibler Kristina S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Preventive skin care programmes have shown beneficial effects on the prevalence and severity of hand eczema, but most trials only report short‐term outcomes. One such trial was the randomized Hand Eczema Trial (HET, 2009) investigating the effects of a secondary prevention programme in healthcare workers. Positive results have been reported at 5‐month follow‐up.

Objectives

To examine the long‐term (42–47 months) effects of the HET.

Methods

The present study was a follow‐up questionnaire study on the effect of the intervention. Outcomes were the presence and severity of hand eczema, health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL), skin protective behaviour, and knowledge of skin protection. A supplementary outcome was general improvement/worsening of hand eczema.

Results

Comparison of the outcomes at follow‐up showed no marked differences between the two groups. General improvement was reported by 70% in the intervention group and by 54% in the control group (p = 0.25). A small, statistically significant improvement was found regarding HR‐QoL in the intervention group only (p = 0.015).

Conclusions

The impact of an intervention that is effective after 5 months is attenuated over time, with no long‐term effect on the outcomes examined. We suggest that skin care education should be repeated at regular intervals.