bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case
Authors: Dragomirescu Adina , Nicolae Alexandru
Published: August 2016

This chapter surveys some of the most striking and interesting problems and questions related to case in Romance. It covers survival of binary Romance case distinctions in early Gallo- and Rato-Romance, and in modern Daco-Romance; residual case distinctions in tonic and clitic pronominal systems; nominative residues with animates and refunctionalization of nominative/accusative alternants. Specific topics dealt with include: nominal and pronominal inflection; inflection of nouns (and adjectives); Latin case forms inherited in Romance; extended accusative; case systems in Romance; case-forms without case-marking; case inflection of pronouns (and determiners); substitutes for case inflection; determiners and case; use of prepositions and other dedicated case-markers; analytic genitives and datives; prepositional accusatives; cliticization and clitic doubling.
Differential plant invasiveness is not always driven by host promiscuity with bacterial symbionts
Authors: Klock Metha M. , Barrett Luke G. , Thrall Peter H. , Harms Kyle E.
Published: August 2016

Identification of mechanisms that allow some species to outcompete others is a fundamental goal in ecology and invasive species management. One useful approach is to examine congeners varying in invasiveness in a comparative framework across native and invaded ranges. Acacia species have been widely introduced outside their native range of Australia, and a subset of these species have become invasive in multiple parts of the world. Within specific regions, the invasive status of these species varies. Our study examined whether a key mechanism in the life history of Acacia species, the legume-rhizobia symbiosis, influences acacia invasiveness on a regional scale. To assess the extent to which species varying in invasiveness correspondingly differ with regard to the diversity of rhizobia they associate with, we grew seven Acacia species ranging in invasiveness in California in multiple soils from both their native (Australia) and introduced (California) ranges. In particular, the aim was to determine whether more invasive species formed symbioses with a wider diversity of rhizobial strains (i.e. are more promiscuous hosts). We measured and compared plant performance, including aboveground biomass, survival, and nodulation response, as well as rhizobial community composition and richness. Host promiscuity did not differ among invasiveness categories. Acacia species that varied in invasiveness differed in aboveground biomass for only one soil and did not differ in survival or nodulation within individual soils. In addition, acacias did not differ in rhizobial richness among invasiveness categories. However, nodulation differed between regions and was generally higher in the native than introduced range. Our results suggest that all Acacia species introduced to California are promiscuous hosts and that host promiscuity per se does not explain the observed differences in invasiveness within this region. Our study also highlights the utility of assessing potential mechanisms of invasion in species’ native and introduced ranges.
Perceived Age Discrimination: A Precipitator or a Consequence of Depressive Symptoms?
Authors: Ayalon Liat
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The main purpose of the study was to examine a bidirectional temporal relationship between perceived age discrimination and depressive symptoms. A secondary goal was to examine whether the negative effects of perceived age discrimination on one’s depressive symptoms are stronger among respondents older than 70 years old, compared with respondents between the ages of 51 and 70.

Methods

The Health and Retirement Study is a U.S. nationally representative sample of individuals over the age of 50 and their spouse of any age. A cross-lagged model was estimated to examine the reciprocal associations of depressive symptoms and perceived age discrimination, controlling for age, gender, education, ethnicity, marital status, employment status, satisfaction with financial status, number of medical conditions, mobility, strength and fine motor skills, and memory functioning.

Results

The baseline model for the overall sample resulted in adequate fit indices: CFI = .945, TLI = .940, RMSEA = .024 (90% CI = .023, .025). The cross-lagged effect of perceived age discrimination on depressive symptoms was nonsignificant (B [SE] = −.01 [.04], p = .82), whereas the cross-lagged effect of depressive symptoms on perceived age discrimination was small, but significant (B [SE] = .04 [.02], p = .03). This implies that higher levels of depressive symptoms precede a greater likelihood of perceived age discrimination, net of sociodemographic and clinical variables. The cross-lagged effects did not vary according to age group (51–70 vs >70 years old).

Discussion

The subjective nature of perceived age discrimination is discussed.
Self-Reported Listening-Related Effort and Fatigue in Hearing-Impaired Adults
Authors: Alhanbali Sara , Dawes Piers , Lloyd Simon , Munro Kevin J.
Published: August 2016

Objective:

Hearing loss may increase listening-related effort and fatigue due to the increased mental exertion required to attend to, and understand, an auditory message. Because there have been few attempts to quantify self-reported effort and fatigue in listeners with hearing loss, that was the aim of the present study.

Design:

Participants included three groups of hearing-impaired adults: (1) hearing aid users (HA, n = 50; 31 male, 19 female; age range = 55 to 85 years); (2) cochlear implant users (CI, n = 50; 26 male, 24 female; age range = 55 to 80 years); and (3) single sided deafness (SSD, n = 50; 30 male, 20 female; age range = 58 to 80 years). There was also a control group of adults who passed a hearing screen at 30 dB HL at the frequencies: 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz in both ears (n = 50; 22 male, 28 female; age range = 55 to 78 years). The fatigue assessment scale (FAS) was used to quantify fatigue. The FAS is a generic standardized self-report scale consisting of 10 items that are scored using a five-point Likert scale. An effort assessment scale (EAS), developed for the present study, consisted of six questions with responses provided on a visual analog scale that ranges from 0 to 10.

Results:

All hearing-impaired groups reported significantly increased effort and fatigue compared to the control group. The median fatigue score for the control group was 14 and around 22 for the three hearing-impaired groups. The median effort score for the control group was 20 and around 70 for the three hearing-impaired groups. There was no significant difference in mean effort or fatigue between the three groups of hearing-impaired adults. There was a weak positive correlation between fatigue and effort scores (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). The proportion of participants with extreme fatigue (scores above the 95th percentile of the control group) was 22, 10, and 22%, for the HA, CI, and SSD groups, respectively. The proportion of those with extreme effort was 46, 54, and 52%, for the HA, CI, and SSD groups, respectively. Results of factor analysis using the individual questions from both questionnaires indicated that the questions loaded into two factors: a “fatigue” factor for all of the FAS questions and an “effort” factor for all of the EAS questions.

Conclusion:

Hearing-impaired individuals report high levels of listening effort and fatigue in everyday life. The similarity in listening-related effort and fatigue between the different hearing-impaired groups suggests that these aspects of listening experience are not predicted by the severity of hearing impairment. Factor analysis suggests that the FAS and the EAS assess two distinct dimensions. The low correlation between FAS and EAS means that fatigue cannot be reliably predicted from self-reported effort in individual listeners.
Recent advances in the pathogenesis and management of Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulcers
Authors: Herrick Ariane L.
Published: August 2016

Purpose of review

Systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related digital vasculopathy can progress from severe Raynaud's phenomenon to digital ulceration, is a major cause of pain and disability, and impacts negatively on quality of life. Current treatments are often ineffective and poorly tolerated. This review summarises some of the progress which has been made in the last 12 to 18 months in terms of our understanding of disease process, measurement and treatment.

Recent findings

The most important findings include that we can now better predict which patients with SSc are most likely to develop digital ulcers. In terms of treatment, a multicentre trial showed that the phosphodiesterase inhibitor sildenafil confers some benefit in SSc-related digital ulceration. Topical therapies are being explored: iontophoresis of vasodilators increases local blood flow, and in an avian model, VEGF121 fibrin applied in a gel matrix improved wound healing.

Progress is being made. Advances in our understanding of SSc-related vasculopathy continue to lead to exploration of new treatment approaches. Clinical trials and observational studies are challenging, but are being facilitated by developments in outcome measures and improved infrastructures and networking, allowing trials in much larger numbers of patients than have previously been possible.
A phase I study of TPI 287 in combination with temozolomide for patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: McQuade Jennifer L. , Posada Liberty P. , Lecagoonporn Srisuda , Cain Suzanne , Bassett Roland L. , Patel Sapna P. , Hwu Wen-Jen , Hwu Patrick , Davies Michael A. , Bedikian Agop Y. , Amaria Rodabe N.
Published: August 2016

TPI 287 is a synthetic taxane derivative with structural modifications allowing for central nervous system penetration and potential circumvention of multidrug resistance efflux pump mechanisms. The aim of this phase I study was to determine the maximum tolerated dose of the combination of TPI 287 and temozolomide in metastatic melanoma. Patients with stage IV unresectable or recurrent stage III melanoma were eligible. Stable untreated or treated brain metastases were allowed. Patients with previous taxane exposure were excluded. TPI 287 was administered intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15 and temozolomide was taken orally daily on days 1–5 of a 28-day cycle. Responses were assessed every two cycles according to WHO criteria. A total of 21 patients were enrolled. The maximum tolerated dose of the combination at this schedule was determined to be 125 mg/m2 intravenous of TPI 287 and 110 mg/m2 of oral temozolomide. The dose-limiting toxicity was neuropathy and six patients experienced grade III neuropathy. All patients were evaluable for tumor response. There were no complete responses; there were two partial responses and seven patients had stable disease (overall response rate 9.5% and disease control rate 42.9%). Three patients had stable disease in the brain despite progressive extracranial disease. The combination of TPI 287 and temozolomide is well tolerated in patients with metastatic melanoma, with the exception of neuropathy. The central nervous system penetration of both agents makes this a rational combination for further testing in primary and metastatic brain lesions.
Barriers to Participation in Physical Activity Among South Sudanese Children in South Australia
Authors: Mude William , Mwanri Lillian
Published: August 2016

Physical inactivity is one of the determinants of childhood obesity. Although its facilitators are well documented for the general community, limited evidence exists informing newly arrived and emerging migrant communities in Australia. To explore parents' perspectives of barriers to participation in physical activity among South Sudanese children in South Australia. Qualitative, face-to-face interviews were conducted with parents. Data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically using NVivo software. Multiple and complex barriers to physical activity participation were described. Enabling and supportive programs are needed to improve physical activity participation and health outcomes of new migrants.
Additive manufacturing technology in reconstructive surgery
Authors: Fuller Scott C. , Moore Michael G.
Published: August 2016

Purpose of review

Technological advances have been part and parcel of modern reconstructive surgery, in that practitioners of this discipline are continually looking for innovative ways to perfect their craft and improve patient outcomes. We are currently in a technological climate wherein advances in computers, imaging, and science have coalesced with resulting innovative breakthroughs that are not merely limited to improved outcomes and enhanced patient care, but may provide novel approaches to training the next generation of reconstructive surgeons.

Recent findings

New developments in software and modeling platforms, imaging modalities, tissue engineering, additive manufacturing, and customization of implants are poised to revolutionize the field of reconstructive surgery.

The interface between technological advances and reconstructive surgery continues to expand. Additive manufacturing techniques continue to evolve in an effort to improve patient outcomes, decrease operative time, and serve as instructional tools for the training of reconstructive surgeons.
Hepatic Inflammation May Influence Liver Stiffness Measurements by Transient Elastography in Children and Young Adults
Authors: Raizner Aileen , Shillingford Nick , Mitchell Paul D. , Harney Sarah , Raza Roshan , Serino Jessica , Jonas Maureen M. , Lee Christine K.
Published: August 2016

Objectives:

Transient elastography (TE) measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis. Studies in adults have shown that inflammation increases stiffness, leading to an overestimation of fibrosis. We investigated the contribution of inflammation to liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) in children/young adults.

Methods:

This was a cohort analysis of children/young adults who underwent TE within 1 year of liver biopsy. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was obtained within 30 days of the biopsy and LSM. Fibrosis was assessed by METAVIR stage and inflammation by ALT and Ishak score. Data were stratified into METAVIR F0–F2 versus F3–F4. Change between ALT and LSM over time was also assessed.

Results:

A total of 154 patients (50% male patients) ages 3 weeks to 24 years (18% <3 years) were studied. Diagnoses included autoimmune (N = 38, 25%), viral (N = 25, 16%), cholestasis (N = 17, 11%), fatty liver (N = 9, 6%), biliary atresia (N = 8, 5%), metabolic (N = 5, 3%), allograft rejection (N = 4, 3%), and other (N = 48, 31%). Thirty‐four percent of patients had F3–F4. In patients with F0–F2, the proportion of those with LSM >8.6 kPa increased with increasing ALT (P = 0.002). In patients with F3–F4, there was no association between ALT and LSM (P = 0.17). A correlation between change in ALT and LSM was observed in patients with no/minimal fibrosis and inflammatory liver diseases (r = 0.33).

Conclusions:

In children with no/minimal hepatic fibrosis and inflammatory liver disease, high ALT values are associated with LSM in the range typical of advanced fibrosis. However, with more advanced fibrosis, inflammation does not appear to contribute to LSM. Caution must be taken when interpreting LSM for assessing fibrosis severity in the setting of inflammation.
Easi-CRISPR: Efficient germline modification with long ssDNA donors
Authors: Quadros Rolen M. , Ohtsuka Masato , Harms Donald W , Aida Tomomi , Redder Ronald , Miura Hiromi , Richardson Guy P. , Behlke Mark A. , Zeiner Sarah A. , Jacobi Ashley M. , Urness Lisa D. , Mansour Suzanne L. , Gurumurthy Channabasavaiah B.
Published: August 2016

CRISPR/Cas9 technology efficiently produces short insertions or deletions (indels) and can insert short exogenous sequences at Cas9 cut sites. However, targeting long inserts is still a major technical challenge. To overcome this challenge, we developedEasi-CRISPR (Efficientadditions withssDNAinserts-CRISPR), a method that uses long,in vitro-synthesized, single-stranded DNAs with 50-100 base homology arms as repair templates. We demonstrate thatEasi-CRISPR can generate knock-in and floxed alleles in mice with an efficiency at many loci as high as 100%. The simple design requirements for donor DNAs and the reproducibly high-efficiency ofEasi-CRISPR enables rapid development of many types of commonly used animal and cell models.
A non-zero variance of Tajima’s estimator for two sequences even for infinitely many unlinked loci
Authors: King Léandra , Wakeley John , Carmi Shai
Published: August 2016

The population-scaled mutation rate,θ, is informative on the effective population size and is thus widely used in population genetics. We show that for two sequences andnunlinked loci, Tajima’s estimator (), which is the average number of pairwise differences, is not consistent and therefore its variance does not vanish even asn→ ∞. The non-zero variance ofresults from a (weak) correlation between coalescence times even at unlinked loci, which, in turn, is due to the underlying fixed pedigree shared by all genealogies. We derive the correlation coefficient under a diploid, discrete-time, Wright-Fisher model, and we also derive a simple, closed-form lower bound. We also obtain empirical estimates of the correlation of coalescence times under demographic models inspired by large-scale human genealogies. While the effect we de scribe is small, it is important to recognize this feature of statistical population genetics, which runs counter to commonly held notions about unlinked loci.
Orientation tuning depends on spatial frequency in mouse visual cortex
Authors: Ayzenshtat Inbal , Jackson Jesse , Yuste Rafael
Published: August 2016

The response properties of neurons to sensory stimuli have been used to identify their receptive fields and functionally map sensory systems. In primary visual cortex, most neurons are selective to a particular orientation and spatial frequency of the visual stimulus. Using two-photon calcium imaging of neuronal populations from the primary visual cortex of mice, we have characterized the response properties of neurons to various orientations and spatial frequencies. Surprisingly, we found that the orientation selectivity of neurons actually depends on the spatial frequency of the stimulus. This dependence can be easily explained if one assumed spatially asymmetric Gabor-type receptive fields. We propose that receptive fields of neurons in layer 2/3 of visual cortex are indeed spatially asymmetric, and that this asymmetry could be used effectively by the visual system to encode natural scenes.

Significance Statement

In this manuscript we demonstrate that the orientation selectivity of neurons in primary visual cortex of mouse is highly dependent on the stimulus SF. This dependence is realized quantitatively in a decrease in the selectivity strength of cells in non-optimum SF, and more importantly, it is also evident qualitatively in a shift in the preferred orientation of cells in non-optimum SF. We show that a receptive-field model of a 2D asymmetric Gabor, rather than a symmetric one, can explain this surprising observation. Therefore, we propose that the receptive fields of neurons in layer 2/3 of mouse visual cortex are spatially asymmetric and this asymmetry could be used effectively by the visual system to encode natural scenes.

Highlights

–

Orientation selectivity is dependent on spatial frequency.

–

Asymmetric Gabor model can explain this dependence.
The supramolecular structure of bone: X-ray scattering analysis and lateral structure modeling
Authors: Zhou Hong-Wen , Burger Christian , Wang Hao , Hsiao Benjamin S. , Chu Benjamin , Graham Lila
Published: August 2016

The evolution of vertebrates required a key development in supramolecular evolution: internally mineralized collagen fibrils. In bone, collagen molecules and mineral crystals form a nanocomposite material comparable to cast iron in tensile strength, but several times lighter and more flexible. Current understanding of the internal nanoscale structure of collagen fibrils, derived from studies of rat tail tendon (RTT), does not explain how nucleation and growth of mineral crystals can occur inside a collagen fibril. Experimental obstacles encountered in studying bone have prevented a solution to this problem for several decades. This report presents a lateral packing model for collagen molecules in bone fibrils, based on the unprecedented observation of multiple resolved equatorial reflections for bone tissue using synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS; ∼1 nm resolution). The deduced structure for pre-mineralized bone fibrils includes features that are not present in RTT: spatially discrete microfibrils. The data are consistent with bone microfibrils similar to pentagonal Smith microfibrils, but are not consistent with the (nondiscrete) quasi-hexagonal microfibrils reported for RTT. These results indicate that collagen fibrils in bone and tendon differ in their internal structure in a manner that allows bone fibrils, but not tendon fibrils, to internally mineralize. In addition, the unique pattern of collagen cross-link types and quantities in mineralized tissues can be can be accounted for, in structural/functional terms, based on a discrete microfibril model.
Merging of synchrotron serial crystallographic data by a genetic algorithm
Authors: Zander Ulrich , Cianci Michele , Foos Nicolas , Silva Catarina S. , Mazzei Luca , Zubieta Chloe , de Maria Alejandro , Nanao Max H.
Published: August 2016

Recent advances in macromolecular crystallography have made it practical to rapidly collect hundreds of sub-data sets consisting of small oscillations of incomplete data. This approach, generally referred to as serial crystallography, has many uses, including an increased effective dose per data set, the collection of data from crystals without harvesting (in situdata collection) and studies of dynamic events such as catalytic reactions. However, selecting which data sets from this type of experiment should be merged can be challenging and new methods are required. Here, it is shown that a genetic algorithm can be used for this purpose, and five case studies are presented in which the merging statistics are significantly improved compared with conventional merging of all data.
Crystal structure of human interferon-γ receptor 2 reveals the structural basis for receptor specificity
Authors: Mikulecký Pavel , Zahradník Jirí , Kolenko Petr , Černý Jiří , Charnavets Tatsiana , Kolářová Lucie , Nečasová Iva , Pham Phuong Ngoc , Schneider Bohdan
Published: August 2016

Interferon-γ receptor 2 is a cell-surface receptor that is required for interferon-γ signalling and therefore plays a critical immunoregulatory role in innate and adaptive immunity against viral and also bacterial and protozoal infections. A crystal structure of the extracellular part of human interferon-γ receptor 2 (IFNγR2) was solved by molecular replacement at 1.8 Å resolution. Similar to other class 2 receptors, IFNγR2 has two fibronectin type III domains. The characteristic structural features of IFNγR2 are concentrated in its N-terminal domain: an extensive π–cation motif of stacked residues KWRWRH, a NAG–W–NAG sandwich (where NAG stands forN-acetyl-D-glucosamine) and finally a helix formed by residues 78–85, which is unique among class 2 receptors. Mass spectrometry and mutational analyses showed the importance of N-linked glycosylation to the stability of the protein and confirmed the presence of two disulfide bonds. Structure-based bioinformatic analysis revealed independent evolutionary behaviour of both receptor domains and, together with multiple sequence alignment, identified putative binding sites for interferon-γ and receptor 1, the ligands of IFNγR2.
Budget processes in the Anglican Church of Melanesia: an emergent ethnic identity
Authors: Hauriasi Abraham , Van-Peursem Karen , Davey Howard
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate ethnic identities emerging from the budgetary processes of the Anglican Church of Melanesia (COM) – the Solomon Islands.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretive and case-based methodology is employed. Fieldwork consists of 27 interviews, document analysis and lived-observations. Ethnic identity and concepts of the indigenous culture inform the analysis.

Findings

Findings demonstrate how Church-led practices merge with indigenous processes and how, together, members negotiate their way through this complex budgeting process. A broadened network and community (wantok) is revealed, and through a sympathetic melding of Melanesian and Church tradition, a new ethnic-identity emerges. Issues of parishioners’ isolation, women’s roles and central accountability are not, as yet, fully integrated into this emerging identity.

Research limitations/implications

There may be value in prioritising “people” over “timelines”, “discussion” over “deadlines” and in respecting local traditions in order to nurture the foundation for new identities. Also, and as evidenced, “nationhood” should not be assumed to be a powerful force in defining ethnic identity.

Practical implications

The value of respecting the complex interaction between tribal tradition and Church values by those in power is revealed.

Social implications

“Ethnic identity” is revealed as a complex notion in the Solomon Islands Anglican COM.

Originality/value

A long-isolated culture’s construction of self-identity in the context of the COM is revealed.
Development of sustainability indicator scoring (SIS) for the food supply chain
Authors: Manning Louise , Soon Jan Mei
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify mechanisms for using a quantitative benchmarking approach to drive sustainability improvements in the food supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was undertaken and then a strategic and operational framework developed for improving food supply chain sustainability in terms of triple bottom line criteria.

Findings

Using a sustainability indicator scoring approach, the paper considers the architecture for analysis so that strategic goals can be clearly formulated and cascade into specific, relevant and timebound strategic and operational measures that underpin brand value and product integrity.

Originality/value

This paper is of value to academics and also practitioners in the food industry.
Product versus region of origin: which wins in consumer persuasion?
Authors: Luceri Beatrice , Latusi Sabrina , Zerbini Cristina
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of highlighting the geographical area in question – through either pictorial or pictorial-textual formats – in print-advertising messages for European Union geographical indication (GI) quality-labelled products.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2×3 between subjects factorial design was used to manipulate the type of GI, namely, protected designation of origin vs protected geographical indication, and the region of origin presentation in the advertisement (absent vs pictorial vs pictorial-textual), while measuring participant brand attitude and intention to buy (dependent variables).

Findings

Results show a significant main effect of the region of origin presentation on brand attitude and purchase intention. Communicating the region of origin through pictorial cues leads to more favourable responses than when there is no reference to it in the advertisement. The presentation of the region of origin through pictorial-textual cues leads to more positive responses than communication based just on pictorial cues. No interaction effect between the type of GI and the region of origin presentation is found.

Originality/value

The study makes a new contribution in the field of communication about typical food products, since the ability of the geographical area to increase consumers’ purchase intention has not been systematically tested in an advertising context. To date, there is no strong evidence on how effective it is to convey the values of the geographical area through its picture and/or name. On a practical level, the study supports new communication strategies for typical food products in a context where messages tend to use intrinsic advertising cues that emphasize physical product attributes, rather than extrinsic advertising cues that leverage intangible product values.
An analysis of factors affecting growth of organic food
Authors: Misra Richa , Singh Deepak
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Food gives us essential nutrients to lead a healthy lifestyle but lately it has been found that many food products have become hazardous due to contamination and lead to many diseases. The rampant use of pesticides and chemical-based fertilizers in agriculture has, increased the productivity but at the same time they have created an alarming situation for the environment. The demand of the hour is to therefore to encourage organic farming and offer a better choice to consumers as well as save the environment. The purpose of this paper is to explore and understand the factors affecting perception of consumers on organic food products in Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a structured survey of 150 respondents covering Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) of Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad (India). Exploratory research was used to know the variables from the literature that affect the perception of consumers regarding organic food. Descriptive research was used to understand the demographic profile of the organic food consumer’s. Conclusive research design was used to test the hypotheses based upon the motivating and inhibiting factor in the growth of organic food.

Findings

The data collected from the survey were analyzed using t-test, χ
2 test, factor analysis and multiple linear regression tests. Results indicated that the intention to purchase organic products was impacted by the consumer’s belief on the safety and health aspect of the product, trust and certification, information and availability and lifestyle and are hence drivers of growth. And certain impeding factors were identified like doubt in the professed quality of organic food, lack of awareness and price parity.

Social implications

There are enough evidences of fertile land being converted into wasteland because of use of agro- chemical-based fertilizers in farming. There are also enough incidents of polluted water (ground and surface) due to agrochemical-based farming. Heavy use of pesticides leads to adverse effect on the health of farmers also. There were many reports of farmers committing suicide because of debt due to heavy investment on pesticides and fertilizers. Organic farming is a win-win proposition for environment, farmers and consumer’s.

Originality/value

The study was an effort to understand awareness and perception of organic food consumers in urban India post-agriculture revolution. The result would help the organic food producing and marketing companies to understand the factors that influence the belief of consumers when they purchase organic food and henceforth they can formulate communication strategies and marketing policy based on consumer’s expectations.
Geographical indications, implementation and traceability: Gemlik table olives
Authors: Dokuzlu Sertac
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Geographical indications (GIs) have been implemented across the EU for agricultural and food products for many years and consumers know them well. However, developing countries and/or transitioning economies do not have sufficient experience to apply GIs. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate ways to implement GI in domestic markets in countries in which there are no common logo and control/tracking systems to help GI holders manage the process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative case study to describe a process to implement GI registered food products in domestic markets. The system was developed by the author and applied by the Gemlik Commodity Exchange (GTB).

Findings

A registration system that allows inspection of producers in GI limits should be established. For good practice and to ensure correct registration, an efficient, established control system, promotion, and conservancy of GI-holding organizations are essential.

Practical implications

GTB implemented two projects, for which a GI logo and labels with quick-response (QR) codes were created. A regional, GI promotion project was conducted, and after one year, there was no increase in consumer demand, but entering markets became easier, and traders of PDO products began to experience increases in orders and/or shortening of intervals. Long-term implications of the system could not be measured since one year had passed.

Originality/value

This study develops and demonstrates a QR tracking system for implementation of GIs.
Do psychological factors affect green food and beverage behaviour? An application of the theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Wang Yao-Fen , Wang Chung-Jen
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to first integrate incorporated commitment, self-identity, and moral responsibility with the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to predict the green food and beverage (GFB) behaviours in protecting food environment. Moreover, this study also identified the key influential factors of green behaviours and analysed the mediation effects of commitment in this extended TPB model.

Design/methodology/approach

The structural equation modelling based on 793 college students was used to verified the goodness-of-fit and direct effects of the extended TPB model of GFBs, and bootstrap method was also used to examine the indirect effects.

Findings

The results of this study revealed commitment, perceived behavioural control (PBC), and perceived knowledge of GFBs were the most influential factors of GFBs. Furthermore, this study also verify that PBC influences civic behaviour pertaining to GFBs, and commitment mediated the effects of subjective social norms between PBC and GFBs.

Originality/value

This study provided value for GFBs that prompting people to exhibit civic behaviour pertaining and commitment to GFBs as well as ensuring environmentally sustainable development of GFBs.
Revenue in reverse? An examination of reverse supply chain enabled revenue streams
Authors: Larsen Samuel Brüning , Jacobsen Peter
Published: August 2016

Purpose

When original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) examine whether to implement a reverse supply chain (RSC) for their products, oftentimes the motive is cost savings or regulatory compliance. However, a frequently overlooked but equally important benefit is the possibility for creating new revenue. The purpose of this paper is to examine which revenue streams the RSC enables for OEMs to utilize and how these streams are utilized in industrial practice.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the paper identifies the RSC-enabled revenue streams that are available to OEMs using a literature-based conceptual modeling approach. Second, using a set of eight cases the paper explores these streams’ utilization pattern and develops a set of propositions that explain the pattern.

Findings

Results show a set of 12 distinct RSC-enabled revenue streams within three categories: new revenue through sales of used items, new revenue through sales of recovered items, and new revenue through added sales of virgin products. Six of these 12 streams are utilized in industrial practice. Among the propositions that explain the utilization pattern are the degree of component customization, product life-cycle longevity, and the value gap between used and recovered products.

Originality/value

While extant literature concerning the relation between the RSC and the firm’s revenue is scarce, this paper contributes to the understanding of RSCs’ revenue generation potential and thus to the stream of literature that views the RSC as a value creator rather than a costly nuisance. Furthermore, the paper provides managers with a broad view of how their firm’s RSC can increase revenue from existing markets as well as create revenue from new markets.
Where do customer loyalties really lie, and why? Gender differences in store loyalty
Authors: Audrain-Pontevia Anne-Françoise , Vanhuele Marc
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine gender differences in store loyalty and how those differences evolve with age.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study were collected in a survey of 32,054 shoppers in more than 50 grocery stores belonging to the same chain. In total, 20 satisfaction items were factor-analysed, resulting in four satisfaction factors. A logistic regression with store exclusivity as the dependent variable was then run to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

This study finds that men are more loyal than women to the store chain, while women are more loyal than men to individual stores. Women’s loyalty is more influenced by their satisfaction with interaction with store employees, while for men loyalty is more influenced by satisfaction with impersonal dimensions. Store loyalty increases with age, an effect that cannot be explained solely by declining mobility and cognitive impairment.

Research limitations/implications

This research examines declared behavioural practices rather than actual behaviour. However, in view of the high frequency of purchases in the retail category examined, and also because of the large sample of over 50 different stores, declared practices should be highly correlated with actual behaviour.

Practical implications

Results from satisfaction surveys should be interpreted differently for men and women. Loyalty programmes may want to adapt their approach, to incorporate gender differences into their loyalty reinforcing measures.

Social implications

This paper should also help to a better understanding of loyalty programs for both men and women, younger and older people.

Originality/value

This is the first demonstration from an in store customer survey that the shopping experience drives store loyalty differently for men and women.
On pessimism in Australian ecology
Authors: Morton S. R.
Published: August 2016

In the face of massive human impacts upon the environment, a prevailing attitude among Australian ecologists seems to have become one of pessimism. The essay explores the consequences of this stance. Pessimism arises understandably from personal values favouring care for the natural world under conditions of rapid global change. Expression of such values is in no way illegitimate; pessimism is as justifiable a perspective as is optimism when interpreting ecology. Examples are mentioned of areas of Australian ecology where pessimism does not predominate, and where the ecological changes being wrought by the Anthropocene are accepted. But, the predominance of gloom can cause ecologists to flirt with exaggeration and with misanthropy, and perversely it can cause them to strive to prevent ecological change even though the discipline is rooted in the reality of flux. Most profoundly, it causes many citizens to switch off: gloom has limited capacity to motivate, whereas hope is the elixir of action. Because of predominant negativity, we risk losing the confidence of society. The solution is for the discipline to develop more diverse strands of interpretation, characterized by more equal doses of acceptance and hope. By balancing dejection, ecology may achieve the efficacy in debate and decision‐making that it warrants in these challenging times.
Skin provocation tests may help to diagnose atopic dermatitis
Authors: Hawro T. , Lehmann S. , Altrichter S. , Fluhr J. W. , Zuberbier T. , Church M. K. , Maurer M. , Metz M.
Published: August 2016

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disorder. Its diagnosis relies on clinical judgment. Mild and untypical manifestations may cause diagnostic difficulties. Biomarkers for the differential diagnostic workup of AD are needed.

Objective

To test whether the results of skin provocation with cowhage, an established model of histamine‐independent pruritus, and histamine are different in AD patients and healthy subjects and whether these tests may be used as diagnostic markers of AD.

Methods

Twenty‐two AD patients and 18 healthy controls were subjected to topical cowhage provocation and skin prick testing with histamine and assessed for differences in the quality, intensity, and persistence of itch, for wheal diameter, volume, and flare size and intensity.

Results

Patients with AD, compared with healthy controls, exhibited significantly smaller histamine‐induced flares (P < 0.01) and markedly longer itch persistence after provocation with cowhage (P < 0.01). Both parameters showed good diagnostic properties for AD (area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve 0.78 and 0.80, respectively). The persistence of cowhage‐induced itch for at least 30 min and a histamine‐induced flare of less than 2 cm in diameter were reliable thresholds for the diagnosis of AD. If combinations of the results of both tests were used, their sensitivity and specificity of diagnosing AD were up to 91% and 94%, respectively.

Conclusion

The clinical benefit of cowhage and histamine skin provocation tests should be investigated in further studies. Long persistence of cowhage‐induced itch and diminished histamine‐induced flare in nonlesional skin may support diagnosis of AD.
Mycophenolate mofetil combined with systemic corticosteroids prevents progression to chronic recurrent inflammation and development of ‘sunset glow fundus’ in initial‐onset acute uveitis associated with Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada disease
Authors: Abu El‐Asrar Ahmed M. , Dosari Mona , Hemachandran Suhail , Gikandi Priscilla W. , Al‐Muammar Abdulrahman
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) as first‐line therapy combined with systemic corticosteroids in initial‐onset acute uveitis associated with Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease.

Methods

This prospective study included 38 patients (76 eyes). The main outcome measures were final visual acuity, corticosteroid‐sparing effect, progression to chronic recurrent granulomatous uveitis and development of complications, particularly ‘sunset glow fundus’.

Results

The mean follow‐up period was 37.0 ± 29.3 (range 9–120 months). Visual acuity of 20/20 was achieved by 93.4% of the eyes. Corticosteroid‐sparing effect was achieved in all patients. The mean interval between starting treatment and tapering to 10 mg or less daily was 3.8 ± 1.3 months (range 3–7 months). Twenty‐two patients (57.9%) discontinued treatment without relapse of inflammation. The mean time observed off of treatment was 28.1 ± 19.6 months (range 1–60 months). None of the eyes progressed to chronic recurrent granulomatous uveitis. The ocular complications encountered were glaucoma in two eyes (2.6%) and cataract in five eyes (6.6%). None of the eyes developed ‘sunset glow fundus’, and none of the patients developed any systemic adverse events associated with the treatment.

Conclusions

Use of MMF as first‐line therapy combined with systemic corticosteroids in patients with initial‐onset acute VKH disease prevents progression to chronic recurrent granulomatous inflammation and development of ‘sunset glow fundus’.
Early light deprivation effects on human cone‐driven retinal function
Authors: Esposito Veneruso Paolo , Ziccardi Lucia , Magli Giulia , Parisi Vincenzo , Falsini Benedetto , Magli Adriano
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To assess whether the early light deprivation induced by congenital cataract may influence the cone‐driven retinal function in humans.

Methods

Forty‐one patients affected by congenital cataract (CC) who had undergone uncomplicated cataract extraction surgery and intraocular lens implant, and 14 healthy subjects (HS) were enrolled. All patients underwent complete ophthalmological and orthoptic evaluations and best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurement; light‐adapted full‐field electroretinograms (ERG) and photopic negative responses (PhNR) were recorded to obtain a reliable measurement of the outer/inner retinal function and of the retinal ganglion cells' function respectively.

Results

Mean values of light‐adapted ERG a‐ and b‐wave and PhNR amplitude of CC eyes were significantly reduced and photopic ERG b‐wave implicit time mean values were significantly delayed when compared to HS ones. When studying photopic ERG mean amplitudes at 5 ms, significant differences were found when comparing CC and control eyes. In CC eyes, statistically significant correlations were found between a‐ and b‐ wave amplitudes and PhNR amplitudes. No significant correlations were found between ERG parameters and BCVA, as well as between the age of CC patients at surgery and the time elapsed from lens extraction. No significant differences were found when functional parameters of bilateral and unilateral congenital cataract (uCC) eyes were compared, however uCC eyes showed significant differences when compared with contralateral healthy eyes.

Conclusion

We found a significant impairment of cone‐driven retinal responses in patients with a history of congenital cataract. These changes might result from the long‐lasting effects of early light deprivation on the cone retinal pathways. Our findings support the relevance of retinal involvement in deficits induced by early light deprivation.
Mango leaf extract improves central pathology and cognitive impairment in a type 2 diabetes mouse model
Authors: Infante‐Garcia Carmen , Jose Ramos‐Rodriguez Juan , Marin‐Zambrana Yolanda , Teresa Fernandez‐Ponce Maria , Casas Lourdes , Mantell Casimiro , Garcia‐Alloza Monica
Published: August 2016

Epidemiological studies reveal that metabolic disorders, and specifically type 2 diabetes (T2D), are relevant risk factors to develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), the most common causes of dementia. AD patients are in a tremendous need of new therapeutic options because of the limited success of available treatments. Natural polyphenols, and concretely Mangifera indica Linn extract (MGF), have been reported to have antiinflammatory, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. The role of MGF in central complications associated with T2D, after long‐term treatment of db/db mice with MGF was analyzed. Metabolic parameters (body weight, glucose and insulin levels) as well as central complications including brain atrophy, inflammatory processes, spontaneous bleeding, tau phosphorylation and cognitive function in db/db mice treated with MGF for 22 weeks were assessed. MGF limits body weight gain in obese db/db mice. Insulin and C‐peptide levels, indicative of pancreatic function, were longer maintained in MGF‐treated animals. MGF reduced central inflammation by lowering microglia burden, both in the cortex and the hippocampus. Likewise, central spontaneous bleeding was significantly reduced in db/db mice. Cortical and hippocampal atrophy was reduced in db/db mice and tau hyperphosphorylation was lower after MGF treatment, resulting in partial recovery of learning and memory disabilities. Altogether, the data suggested that MGF treatment may provide a useful tool to target different aspects of AD and VaD pathology, and could lead to more effective clinical therapies for the prevention of metabolic related central complications associated with AD and VaD.
Editorial: Mapping the influence of schools and parents and translating innovation into routine clinical practice
Authors: Sayal Kapil
Published: August 2016

The articles featured in this issue of CAMH reflect the crucial role of some of the wider systems that influence the lives and well‐being of children and young people. The first two papers focus on the very important role of schools in relation to child and adolescent mental health. These report on the views of school staff from an international perspective. The next two papers, reporting on studies conducted in China and Palestine, highlight the impact of parental factors, including psychopathology and detention, on children's mental health. The final two papers focus on the potential to change and innovate core aspects of clinical practice in terms of enhancing the sharing of clinical information with families and using objective assessment measures within routine paediatric and child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS).