bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing a heterotrinuclear CuII—NiII—CuIIcomplex from a mononuclear CuIISchiff base precursor with dicyanamide as a coligand: synthesis, crystal structure, thermal and photoluminescence properties
Authors: Hopa Cigdem , Cokay Ismail
Published: July 2016

Schiff bases are considered `versatile ligands' in coordination chemistry. The design of polynuclear complexes has become of interest due to their facile preparations and varied synthetic, structural and magnetic properties. The reaction of the `ligand complex' [CuL] {H2Lis 2,2′-[propane-1,3-diylbis(nitrilomethanylylidene)]diphenol} with Ni(OAc)2·4H2O (OAc is acetate) in the presence of dicyanamide (dca) leads to the formation of bis(dicyanamido-1κN1)bis(dimethyl sulfoxide)-2κO,3κO-bis{μ-2,2′-[propane-1,3-diylbis(nitrilomethanylylidene)]diphenolato}-1:2κ6O,O′:O,N,N′,O′;1:3κ6O,O′:O,N,N′,O′-dicopper(II)nickel(II), [Cu2Ni(C17H16N2O2)2(C2N3)2(C2H6OS)2]. The complex shows strong absorption bands in the frequency region 2155–2269 cm−1, which clearly proves the presence of terminal bonding dca groups. A single-crystal X-ray study revealed that two [CuL] units coordinate to an NiIIatom through the phenolate O atoms, with double phenolate bridges between CuIIand NiIIatoms. Two terminal dca groups complete the distorted octahedral geometry around the central NiIIatom. According to differential thermal analysis–thermogravimetric analysis (DTA–TGA), the title complex is stable up to 423 K and thermal decomposition starts with the release of two coordinated dimethyl sulfoxide molecules. Free H2Lexhibits photoluminescence properties originating from intraligand (π–π*) transitions and fluorescence quenching is observed on complexation of H2Lwith CuII.
Ethyl 2-[(5Z)-5-(4-methoxybenzylidene)-2,4-dioxo-1,3-thiazolidin-3-yl]acetate
Authors: Tachallait Hamza , Karrouchi Khalid , Bougrin Khalid , Mague Joel T. , Ramli Youssef
Published: July 2016

In the title compound, C15H15NO5S, the benzene and heterocyclic rings are close to being coplanar [dihedral angle = 1.49 (6)°]. In the crystal, pairwise C—H...O hydrogen bonds form dimers, which are arranged into `stair-step' rows by way of C=O–π interactions between a carbonyl group and the benzene ring [O...π = 3.3837 (12) Å].
2-[4-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-1,3-thiazol-2-yl]-2,3-dihydro-1H-isoindole-1,3-dione
Authors: Saravanan K. , Archana K. , Lakshmithendral K. , Kabilan S. , Selvanayagam S.
Published: July 2016

In the title isoindole, C18H12N2O3S, the methoxyphenyl ring is oriented at an angle of 9.5 (1)° with respect to the thiazole ring. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaC—H...O interactions, which formC(7) chains propagating along [010]. In addition to this, weak π–π interactions are also observed.
Exploring the interrelationship between public service motivation and corruption theories
Authors: Kim Young Jong , Kim Eun Sil
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the interrelationship between public service motivation (PSM) and corruption theory. This paper further explores the possibility of integrating two theories in order to prevent corruption.

Design/methodology/approach

– Existing theories on PSM and corruption were briefly reviewed in finding the connection between the two theories. The discussions primarily focus on finding the theoretical and empirical interrelationship between PSM theories and corruption theories.

Findings

– This paper suggests applying PSM theories in preventing corruption by adding ethical dimension of PSM to corruption theories. In other words, the PSM constructs can be incorporated in developing an anti-corruption strategy. In the context of public administration, the authors find the importance of PSM theory in developing an effective anti-corruption strategy.

Practical implications

– Public officials should be encouraged to possess strong ethical standards in public service; highly motivated candidates for public service positions should be sought in order to create a clean and reliable government; and PSM educational programs in the early stages of schooling should be adopted to stimulate ethics for young children.

Originality/value

– This study adds contributions to the understanding of theoretical relationship between PSM and corruption theory. The authors suggest that integrating PSM and corruption theory can be beneficial in building new paradigms to prevent corruption in a country such as Korea.
Community relations dealing with a not in my back yard (NIMBY) context
Authors: Chung Wonjun , Choi Jinbong , Woo Chang Wan , Lee Soobum , Saindon Christina E.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper investigates whether building a nuclear power plant in a community would inherently bring local conflict phenomena such as “not in my back yard (NIMBY)”, focusing especially on the interactive effect between different types of local publics and their exposure to either a supportive or opposing message about a hypothetical local governmental plan to build a nuclear power plant on community participation intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying the two theoretical frameworks (situational theory of publics and social exchange theory) to NIMBY, this study used a quantitative approach by using 471 participants in a 4 (publics: active, aware, aroused or inactive) × 2 (advocacy message type: supportive or opposing message) experimental design.

Findings

The results showed that regardless of message types, active publics were more likely to participate in community activities than any other public, but this group strongly opposed the harmful facility, while inactive publics continued to be inactive. However, aware and aroused publics were significantly influenced by messages.

Originality/value

The rationale and findings of this research are original, as they have not been published previously, and are not being simultaneously submitted elsewhere. This research should contribute to the broad body of knowledge and practices in community-based conflict issues in terms of risk management. It is believed that the discussion and implications of the findings should raise interesting areas for further research.
Globalization and women’s and girls’ health in 192 UN-member countries
Authors: Gevrek Deniz , Middleton Karen
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the ratification of the United Nations’ (UN’s) Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and women’s and girls’ health outcomes using a unique longitudinal data set of 192 UN-member countries that encompasses the years from 1980 to 2011.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors focus on the impact of CEDAW ratification, number of reports submitted after ratification, years passed since ratification, and the dynamic impact of CEDAW ratification by utilizing ordinary least squares (OLS) and panel fixed effects methods. The study investigates the following women’s and girls’ health outcomes: total fertility rate, adolescent fertility rate, infant mortality rate, maternal mortality ratio, neonatal mortality rate, female life expectancy at birth (FLEB), and female to male life expectancy at birth.

Findings

– The OLS and panel country and year fixed effects models provide evidence that the impact of CEDAW ratification on women’s and girls’ health outcomes varies by global regions. While the authors find no significant gains in health outcomes in European and North-American countries, the countries in the Northern Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, Southern Africa, Caribbean and Central America, South America, Middle-East, Eastern Asia, and Oceania regions experienced the biggest gains from CEDAW ratification, exhibiting reductions in total fertility, adolescent fertility, infant mortality, maternal mortality, and neonatal mortality while also showing improvements in FLEB. The results provide evidence that both early commitment to CEDAW as measured by the total number of years of engagement after the UN’s 1980 ratification and the timely submission of mandatory CEDAW reports have positive impacts on women’ and girls’ health outcomes. Several sensitivity tests confirm the robustness of main findings.

Originality/value

– This study is the first comprehensive attempt to explore the multifaceted relationships between CEDAW ratification and female health outcomes. The study significantly expands on the methods of earlier research and presents novel methods and findings on the relationship between CEDAW ratification and women’s health outcomes. The findings suggest that the impact of CEDAW ratification significantly depends on the country’s region. Furthermore, stronger engagement with CEDAW (as indicated by the total number of years following country ratification) and the submission of the required CEDAW reports (as outlined in the Convention’s guidelines) have positive impacts on women’s and girls’ health outcomes.
An investigation of key predictors of performance of agricultural projects in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Nkuruziza Gideon , Kasekende Francis , Otengei Samson Omuudu , Mujabi Shafic , Ntayi Joseph Mpeera
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the ways of improving performance of agricultural projects through stakeholder engagement and knowledge management in a Sub-Saharan context.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire from 342 agricultural projects in Mukono and Wakiso districts in Uganda. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used in the analysis.

Findings

– The results reveal that stakeholder engagement and knowledge management are valuable intangible resources that significantly influence performance of agricultural projects. The findings, managerial and policy implications are fully discussed in this paper.

Originality/value

– The authors empirically show that a model that synchronizes stakeholder engagement, knowledge management and performance of agricultural projects is a requirement for promoting sustainable agricultural performance outcomes. This study makes a contribution by providing information that is relevant for filling the practical gap that exists in agricultural projects of Sub-Saharan Africa as well as contributing to the theoretical development of project management discipline.
Organizational structure and enterprise systems implementation
Authors: Bellini Carlo Gabriel Porto , Pereira Rita de Cássia de Faria , Becker João Luiz
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discuss the structural design of customer teams (CuTes) working with external teams to implement customized information systems (IS). Design consists of theoretically based measures and a first set of real-world, empirical values.

Design/methodology/approach

– A search in the organizational literature suggested that the adhocracy is the preferred structure for CuTes. Adhocracy-like measures were then developed and applied to a high-performance CuTe to reveal a first benchmark for a team’s adhocratic design.

Findings

– High-performance CuTes do not necessarily implement the adhocratic principles to the highest degree.

Research limitations/implications

– It is still open whether all the structural measures described here are necessary and sufficient to describe the adhocracy-like structural design of CuTes.

Practical implications

– The CuTe is highlighted as the key incumbent of cooperation with the technology supplier and consultants in terms of project authority and responsibility. A psychometric instrument and real-world values are proposed as a reference for the structural design of high-performance CuTes.

Social implications

– The performance of IS projects is a social concern, since IS products should be aimed at serving people better both inside and outside the organization. Professionals who work in CuTes to develop better IS should receive institutional recognition and management attention.

Originality/value

– This study seems to be the first to discuss the structure of CuTes in customized IS projects from a theoretical and applied perspective.
Transportation costs do matter: simulation study from hospital investment decision
Authors: Hilmola Olli-Pekka , Henttu Ville
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Most OECD countries will have a considerable challenge ahead with an ageing population and necessary health care produced for retired people. Healthcare costs have increased continuously from the mid-1990’s in Finland, and growth is likely to continue in the future, as the amount of older inhabitants is increasing. Furthermore, transportation of patients and their visitors between homes and hospitals is a large component of the total health carehealth care related costs. This paper aims to estimate transport-related costs and develop ways to decrease these costs.

Design/methodology/approach

A system dynamics simulation model was developed to examine different scenarios for patients and their visitor transportation to hospitals until the year 2040. Model is driven by age distribution of the region and likely by development of the total population. All parameter values were defined based on real-life observations.

Findings

Patients’ need to travel to hospitals is likely to continue to grow. In addition, quality of travel will change as older retired people are not willing or able to use their own transportation equipment or public transportation modes – this is the main reason for higher transportation costs of patients. Transportation is typically conducted via taxis, private cars and ambulances. Therefore, it is critical that people from the region are able to access hospital services with short proximity.

Research limitations/implications

Simulation study is limited to one hospital investment decision in Finland. Distances and population densities as well as transportation mode alternatives differ from more populous regions in the world.

Practical implications

Research findings stressed the importance of keeping their own hospital operations within the region and placing them in a better location. In an alternative case, where a hospital decision would have been abandoned, total transportation costs during 2012-2040 would have increased by at least the same amount that a new hospital is assumed to cost.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first from the health care sector, where patient transportation modes and ageing is being dealt with in the context of new investments. Patient transportation is often an overlooked issue, which bears significant costs, especially as people age.
The mediating role of job satisfaction in the relationship of vertical trust and distributed leadership in health care context
Authors: Jain Ajay K.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This study aims at investigating the effect of vertical trust on distributed leadership (DL) and performance as mediated by job satisfaction, and further to observe the role of DL in carrying out the effect of satisfaction on employees’ performance.

Design/methodology/approach

As grounded in the organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) literature, the author proposes that employees’ participation in DL should be viewed as an extra role behavior, as leadership functions are not directly related to their job description. The study uses large-scale survey data from a study in one of Denmark’s largest public hospitals (N= 1,439).

Findings

The results of structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis showed that job satisfaction mediates the relationship between vertical trust and DL, and DL had a positive impact on job performance. Furthermore, the results showed that job satisfaction had a positive impact on DL and employees’ performance. Moreover, DL has positively affected employees’ performance, and it carries the impact of job satisfaction on performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study showed that trust and job satisfaction are important triggers of DL. Furthermore, results are interesting because literature so far has shown an insignificant relationship between satisfaction and performance. Here, the author establishes that the satisfaction–performance relationship is mediated by DL. The findings should motivate health care organizations to introduce structures and educate formal leaders so that DL can be enabled.

Originality/value

This should be the first study that relates trust and DL in an empirical manner. As grounded in the OCB literature, results also showed the significance of job satisfaction as a mediator variable.
Social media as public sphere: a stakeholder perspective
Authors: Johannessen Marius Rohde , Sæbø Øystein , Flak Leif Skiftenes
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine major stakeholders’ communication preferences in eParticipation initiatives and discuss how this affects the public sphere. Despite the potential of social media, it has proven difficult to get people actively involved in the decision-making processes. There is a need for more research on how stakeholders manage and use social media to communicate.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted as a qualitative case study. Data sources include interviews, social media content, document analysis and field notes.

Findings

Communication preferences of stakeholders vary according to their salience level. Stakeholders with higher salience are less likely to participate in social media, whereas those who are less salient will use every available medium to gain influence. This challenges the opportunity to create a traditional public sphere in social media.

Research limitations/implications

The authors contribute to a better understanding of who participates in social media and why. Stakeholder salience analysis shows that in the case of citizen-initiated eParticipation, social media cannot be seen as a Habermasian public sphere.

Practical implications

The authors suggest two approaches for government officials’ handling of social media: to treat social media as a channel for input and knowledge about the concerns of citizen groups and to integrate social media in the formal processes of decision making to develop consultative statements on specific policy issues.

Social implications

The study shows that power and urgency are the most important salience attributes. These findings indicate that social media may not be as inclusive as early research indicates, and less active social media users may have power and influence through other channels.

Originality/value

The findings extend current knowledge of the public sphere by adding the stakeholder perspective in addition to existing evaluative models of the public sphere.
Social development of rules: can social networking sites benefit e-rulemaking?
Authors: Abdelghaffar Hany , Samer Lobna
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The use of information and communication technologies to provide citizens with the opportunity to give the government their feedback on the rules currently under development is termed as e-rulemaking. Forums – as the main technological tool used for this – has shown many shortcomings and cannot satisfy all the demands of e-rulemaking. Because social networking sites have shown a political impact on ground, they also might have the ability to remedy these shortcomings. This study aims to investigate the possibility of the use of social networking sites in e-rulemaking.

Design/methodology/approach

This research reviews democratic deliberation theory and e-rulemaking in relation with social networks that are used to develop a proposed conceptual model. A combination of qualitative and quantitative research approaches were used to test the proposed model. Semi-structured interviews for mangers and surveys for citizens were used for data collection and then analyzed to draw empirical conclusions.

Findings

Certain variable were found to have a statistically significant impact on the dependent variable of this study. The variables include information collection, user interface, privacy, security and use of emoticons in communications. Through this, the research provides an understanding of the variables that significantly and insignificantly affect the use of social networking sites in e-rulemaking.

Originality/value

This research contributes with a conceptual model that outlines the influence of different variables on e-rulemaking as well as an understanding of how social networking sites could be used to improve e-rulemaking practices and citizen inclusion.
The impact of market orientation levels on business performance results
Authors: Kazakov Sergei
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the impact of market orientation on a companyµs business performance in a service industry using one of the emerging markets as a research setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The examination of two recognized MKTOR and MARCOR market orientation concepts in this paper led to the development of a market orientation model in a service industry that considers the local specifics of doing business. The model was tested in a study of 133 businesses that operate in a Russian service industry. The data analysis was completed to investigate and measure the impact of the market orientation level on a company’s business performance.

Findings

The data analysis following the field study determines that market orientation delivers a positive impact on the company’s overall business performance.

Practical implications

Inter-functional coordination should receive broad attention from company management, as this market orientation element is the most vital for business performance – especially in service industries. Accompanying model elements also provide leverage to business performance that should not be overlooked. Synchronized utilization of the market orientation model elements has a very positive impact on the company’s business.

Originality/value

This research paper contributes to an array of publications dedicated to market orientation in one of the most multifaceted emerging markets, the Russian Federation. It is also the first time that the market orientation concept has been applied by service industry organizations in Russia.
A cluster model of ethno-tourism organization in Russian regions
Authors: Polukhina Anna
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the prospects for cluster modeling of ethno-tourism development in Russian regions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the methods of system and comparative analysis, mathematical statistics, managerial diagnostics, expert estimates, in-depth interview, cluster method and social and psychological testing.

Findings

A significant number of Russian and international researchers study the problem of cluster and network interaction in economics using different perspectives. Special attention should be paid to the theory of cluster and network interaction in the field of tourism. This theory establishes the framework for the formulation of the concept of regional tourism development. The author believes that the concept should be developed using network forms of interaction in the field.

Practical implications

The government should support cluster initiatives to improve the competitiveness of the country in the field of tourism. Further, this cluster policy should include tourist centers with the best prospects, as they are capable of stimulating the country’s economy, and develop a legal framework to provide cluster initiatives support. Otherwise, cluster and network modeling is likely to fail. Another limitation is the negative attitude of local and conventional religious communities toward the ideas of ethno-tourism issues; the best example is the included case study from Mari El Republic, Russia.

Originality/value

Given the wide ethic, cultural and geographical differences within the Russian Federation, it is helpful to develop a spatial model of cluster and network organization for tourism based on selection of the areas that feature unique natural and recreational potential in addition to historical and cultural attractiveness. These areas can be viewed as places where various cluster tourist initiatives and local tourist clusters can be implemented. The use of ethno-tourism as a base concept for local tourism development in the region is bound to make the region more attractive for investors and, thus, support and promote interest in the unique culture of the indigenous peoples.
The main trends, challenges and success factors in the Russian hospitality and tourism market
Authors: Sheresheva Marina , Kopiski John
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the main trends, opportunities, challenges and success factors in the Russian hospitality and tourism market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sets the tone for the theme by evaluating the overall economic situation in Russia and the prospects of the tourism and hospitality market by taking into account the existing institutional environment, as well as the natural resources and cultural heritage of Russia. The articles in this theme issue are drawn both from academia and industry.

Findings

This paper sheds light on the key trends and challenges with respect to leveraging the cultural and economic potential of the Russian hospitality and tourism market. The opportunities for Russia’s hospitality and tourism market are reviewed, and the success factors relating to the Russian hospitality and tourism market are explained.

Practical implications

This study identifies a number of implications for practitioners and policymakers that will allow Russia to leverage its huge but greatly under-rated and untapped potential as an attractive tourist destination. This requires a clear understanding that networking is crucial in the experience economy era to ensure that the aspirations and concerns of all key stakeholders are taken into account given that a lot of different resources and competencies are needed to provide tourists with a combination of experiences, and thus to make a destination attractive for target audiences. It will help Russian practitioners to understand better which factors are crucial for gaining competitiveness in the experience economy era and to find new ways of business improvement. It will also assist practitioners from other countries to understand local environment and find new perspectives of doing business in Russia. Whilst not all key stakeholder voices are represented in this theme issue, the discussions and implications that are drawn out are of importance to all stakeholder groups.

Originality/value

This is the first time a journal issue has focused on the challenges and prospects of the Russian tourism and hospitality market. The research through this theme issue contributes to the literature on BRICS markets by highlighting the specifics of the Russian market. It also provides an understanding of the ways in which Russian cultural heritage and natural resources can be deployed effectively for a positive impact on inbound and domestic tourism and hospitality and on the prosperity of Russian regions and local communities.
The influence of customer engagement in value co-creation on customer satisfaction
Authors: Oyner Olga , Korelina Antonina
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to define relevant forms of co-creation activities and customer engagement in value co-creation geared toward increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty in the Russian hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data analysis of hotels’ websites, annual reports and published interviews was conducted to investigate how hotels co-create the experience environment. Also, content analysis of tourist comments in social media was conducted to assess the relationship between customer engagement in value co-creation and customer satisfaction. The sample for this study includes hotels located in Moscow using customer experience as a source of value creation.

Findings

Based on the analysis of best practice of customer engagement in value co-creation in the hotel industry, a classification of co-creation activity forms was developed. Five forms of co-creation activities have been identified: feedback, co-production, firm-driven service innovation, customer-driven customization and co-creation. Applied data also provide insights on the development of the hotel industry in Moscow. The majority of hotels engaging customers in value co-creation in Moscow are international. Hotels more often use customization, service innovation and especially co-production than co-creation, as co-creation is a new market strategy for the Russian market. The high-price-segment hotels more often use customization, whereas hostels usually implement value co-creation with clients. It can be explained by the difference between the target audience and the resources available. This study helps to understand whether forms of customer engagement in value co-creation in the Russian hotel industry match international experience and findings of theoretical studies.

Research limitations/implications

The sample group represents only hotels in Moscow, and the study utilizes only qualitative techniques. An increase in both the sample size and geographical diversity and a study using both qualitative and quantitative techniques may generate more insights relating to customer engagement in value co-creation in Russian hotels.

Originality/value

This is an insightful comparative study of customer engagement in value co-creation practices of hotels with different attributes, and the study identifies new opportunities to engage customers in value co-creation in the hotel industry.
Reflections on the theme issue outcomes
Authors: Sheresheva Marina , Kopiski John , Teare Richard
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This study aims to profile the Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes (WHATT) issue “What are the main trends, challenges and success factors in the Russian hospitality and tourism market in the experience economy era?” with reference to the experiences of the theme editors, contributors from industry and academia and the theme issue outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses structured questions to enable the theme editors to reflect on the rationale for their theme issue question, the starting point, the selection of the writing team and material and the editorial process.

Findings

This study provides a framework to facilitate discussion between all stakeholders in Russia’s tourism and hospitality industry; it identifies ways of improving competitiveness as a tourist destination and contributes to thinking about sustainable development.

Practical implications

Reports on dialogue between Russian academics and industry practitioners related to the challenges, opportunities and success factors that are important for the development of the tourism and hospitality industry in Russia.

Originality/value

This is the first detailed assessment of the opportunities and mechanisms for creating memorable tourist experiences in Russia. The theme issue also identifies the main problems relating to the development of tourism and hospitality, the implications for industry and the solutions needed to address them.
Short‐term climate change manipulation effects do not scale up to long‐term legacies: effects of an absent snow cover on boreal forest plants
Authors: Blume‐Werry Gesche , Kreyling Juergen , Laudon Hjalmar , Milbau Ann
Published: July 2016

Despite time‐lags and nonlinearity in ecological processes, the majority of our knowledge about ecosystem responses to long‐term changes in climate originates from relatively short‐term experiments.

We utilized the longest ongoing snow removal experiment in the world and an additional set of new plots at the same location in northern Sweden to simultaneously measure the effects of long‐term (11 winters) and short‐term (1 winter) absence of snow cover on boreal forest understorey plants, including the effects on root growth and phenology.

Short‐term absence of snow reduced vascular plant cover in the understorey by 42%, reduced fine root biomass by 16%, reduced shoot growth by up to 53% and induced tissue damage on two common dwarf shrubs. In the long‐term manipulation, more substantial effects on understorey plant cover (92% reduced) and standing fine root biomass (39% reduced) were observed, whereas other response parameters, such as tissue damage, were observed less. Fine root growth was generally reduced, and its initiation delayed by c. 3 (short‐term) to 6 weeks (long‐term manipulation).

Synthesis. We show that one extreme winter with a reduced snow cover can already induce ecologically significant alterations. We also show that long‐term changes were smaller than suggested by an extrapolation of short‐term manipulation results (using a constant proportional decline). In addition, some of those negative responses, such as frost damage and shoot growth, were even absolutely stronger in the short‐term compared to the long‐term manipulation. This suggests adaptation or survival of only those individuals that are able to cope with these extreme winter conditions, and that the short‐term manipulation alone would overpredict long‐term impacts. These results highlight both the ecological importance of snow cover in this boreal forest, and the value of combining short‐ and long‐term experiments side by side in climate change research.
Context Effects in Forensic Entomology and Use of Sequential Unmasking in Casework
Authors: Archer Melanie S. , Wallman James F.
Published: July 2016

Context effects are pervasive in forensic science, and are being recognized by a growing number of disciplines as a threat to objectivity. Cognitive processes can be affected by extraneous context information, and many proactive scientists are therefore introducing context‐minimizing systems into their laboratories. Forensic entomologists are also subject to context effects, both in the processes they undertake (e.g., evidence collection) and decisions they make (e.g., whether an invertebrate taxon is found in a certain geographic area). We stratify the risk of bias into low, medium, and high for the decisions and processes undertaken by forensic entomologists, and propose that knowledge of the time the deceased was last seen alive is the most potentially biasing piece of information for forensic entomologists. Sequential unmasking is identified as the best system for minimizing context information, illustrated with the results of a casework trial (n = 19) using this approach in Victoria, Australia.
Choroidal melanoma treated with stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy and prophylactic intravitreal bevacizumab: The Dunedin Hospital experience
Authors: Haji Mohd Yasin Nur Azri Bin , Gray Andrew R , Bevin Tui H , Kelly Lyndell E , Molteno Anthony C
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Choroidal melanoma (CM) is the most common primary ocular malignancy in adults. This study reviewed the Dunedin Hospital (DH) experience in the treatment of CM with stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy (SRT) and the outcome of prophylactic use of intravitreal injection bevacizumab (PIB) in preventing radiation retinopathy (RR).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of patients at DH who underwent SRT for CM with and without PIB from 1 January 2001 to 31 January 2012. In DH, some patients who had SRT following the introduction of intravitreal bevacizumab in December 2006 were also treated with PIB with the expectation that this might reduce the risk of developing RR, although the evidence of its effectiveness in this respect is not clear. The primary outcome measure was local progression as monitored with regular ultrasound. Secondary outcome measures were metastatic progression incidence, enucleation incidence, no functional vision incidence, overall survival, disease‐specific mortality, incidence of RR, and radiotherapy to clinical diagnosis of RR time.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients who were followed up at DH were reviewed after a mean follow‐up of 5.1 years (range 0.4–12.6). Fourteen patients received PIB. The local progression, metastatic progression and enucleation rate were 4%, 8% and 11%, respectively. The no functional vision (hand movements or less) rate was 62%. Overall survival was 63%, but only three (11%) deaths were due to metastatic choroidal melanoma. Incidence of RR was 57% and 54% for those that received PIB and those who did not, respectively. PIB did not reduce the rate of RR (P = 1.00).

Conclusion

This study reaffirmed that SRT achieves very good local control and eye retention rates. PIB did not appear to reduce the radiation retinopathy rate in this study, and more studies are required especially Phase II and III trials to determine PIB efficacy in preventing RR.
Audit of CT reporting standards in cases of intracerebral haemorrhage at a comprehensive stroke centre in Australia
Authors: Barras Christen D , Asadi Hamed , Phal Pramit M , Tress Brian M , Davis Stephen M , Desmond Patricia M
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Multiple CT‐derived biomarkers that are predictive of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) growth and outcome have been described in the literature, but the extent to which these appear in imaging reports of ICH is unknown. The aim of this retrospective process audit was to determine which of the known predictors of ICH outcome was recorded in reports of the disease, with a view to providing reporting recommendations, as appropriate.

Method

We examined the initial CT report of patients diagnosed with ICH presenting to a metropolitan comprehensive stroke centre and meeting inclusion criteria during the audit period between 1 March 2013 and 28 February 2014. Each report was assessed for the inclusion of the following ICH characteristics: the number of measurement dimensions; volume; location; hydrocephalus; shape; density; ‘CTA spot sign’ (where CTA was performed).

Results

A total of 100 patients met audit inclusion criteria. At least one ICH dimension was recorded in 90% of reports; however, 39% did not include the measurements in three dimensions and volume was reported in just 6%. No ICH dimension was recorded in 10% of reports. With the exception of density and shape, reporting of other CT features exceeded 95%. Where CTA was performed (58%), 14 (24%) of 58 reported the ‘CTA spot sign’ status.

Conclusion

In this audit, volume was the most under‐reported of the established ICH characteristics predictive of ICH outcome. Readily calculated from multiplanar reformats using the ABC/2 technique, the routine reporting of ICH volume is recommended. More reporting attention to ICH density heterogeneity and shape irregularity is encouraged, given their emerging importance. Where acute CTA is performed, the presence of any dynamic haemorrhage (CTA spot sign) should be reported.
Revisiting Brownian motion as a description of animal movement: a comparison to experimental movement data
Authors: Bearup Daniel , Benefer Carly M. , Petrovskii Sergei V. , Blackshaw Rod P.
Published: July 2016

Characterization of patterns of animal movement is a major challenge in ecology with applications to conservation, biological invasions and pest monitoring. Brownian random walks, and diffusive flux as their mean field counterpart, provide one framework in which to consider this problem. However, it remains subject to debate and controversy. This study presents a test of the diffusion framework using movement data obtained from controlled experiments.

Walking beetles (Tenebrio molitor) were released in an open circular arena with a central hole and the number of individuals falling from the arena edges was monitored over time. These boundary counts were compared, using curve fitting, to the predictions of a diffusion model. The diffusion model is solved precisely, without using numerical simulations.

We find that the shape of the curves derived from the diffusion model is a close match to those found experimentally. Furthermore, in general, estimates of the total population obtained from the relevant solution of the diffusion equation are in excellent agreement with the experimental population. Estimates of the dispersal rate of individuals depend on how accurately the initial release distribution is incorporated into the model.

We therefore show that diffusive flux is a very good approximation to the movement of a population ofTenebrio molitorbeetles. As such, we suggest that it is an adequate theoretical/modelling framework for ecological studies that account for insect movement, although it can be context specific. An immediate practical application of this can be found in the interpretation of trap counts, in particular for the purpose of pest monitoring.
Renal recovery and long‐term survival following acute kidney injury after coronary artery surgery: a nationwide study
Authors: Helgadottir S. , Sigurdsson M. I. , Palsson R. , Helgason D. , Sigurdsson G. H. , Gudbjartsson T.
Published: July 2016

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a relatively common complication following CABG and is associated with adverse outcomes. Nonetheless, we hypothesized that the majority of patients make a good long‐term recovery of their renal function. We studied the incidence and risk factors of AKI together with renal recovery and long‐term survival in patients who developed AKI following CABG.

Methods

This nationwide study examined AKI among 1754 consecutive patients undergoing CABG in 2001–2013. AKI was defined according to the KDIGO criteria.

Results

Postoperatively 184 (11%) patients developed AKI; 121 (7%), 27 (2%), and 36 (2%) at stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively. AKI was an independent risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and AKI patients had worse post‐operative outcomes. Lower pre‐operative glomerular filtration rate, higher EuroSCORE and BMI, diabetes, reoperation, and units of red blood cells transfused were independent risk factors of AKI. At post‐operative day 10, renal recovery rates, defined as serum creatinine ratio <1.25 of baseline, were 96 (95% CI 91–99%), 78 (95% CI 53–90%), and 94% (95% CI 77–98%) for AKI stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Long‐term survival was predicted by AKI with 10‐year survival of patients without AKI being 76% and those with AKI stages 1, 2, and 3 being 63%, 56%, and 49%, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Depending on the severity of the initial AKI, 78–97% of patients made good recovery of their kidney function. However, AKI was significantly linked to progression to CKD and long‐term survival remained markedly affected by the severity of the initial kidney injury.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander oral health and its impact among adults: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Schluter PJ , Askew DA , Spurling GK , Lee M , Hayman N
Published: July 2016

Background

Robust oral health epidemiological information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults is scant. Set within a large urban population, this study describes self‐reported oral health behaviours, status and impact assessed through computerized health checks (HC), stratified by age groups and sex, and identifies associations with dental appearance satisfaction.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (aged ≥20 years) attending the Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2015 who had HC and provided research consent.

Results

There were 945 patients, 466 (49.3%) female, with an average age of 41.3 years (range, 20–82). Overall, 97.3% owned a toothbrush and 56.2% brushed two or more times/day. Despite self‐reporting a significant oral health burden, only 28.8% visited a dentist within 12 months, mostly due to problems (84.3%). Surprisingly, only 28.4% reported dental appearance dissatisfaction, likely a result of community normalization whereby people are resigned to poor oral health.

Conclusions

Under‐utilization of dental services remains problematic for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults. To close the oral heath gap, culturally appropriate, acceptable and safe integrated primary health systems, with co‐located dental services, demand consideration.
Information processing strategies and framing effects in developing country choice experiments: results from rice farmers in India
Authors: Ortega David L. , Ward Patrick S.
Published: July 2016

This study explores the effect of various information processing strategies specifically related to attribute nonattendance in stated choice experiments. Our approach includes two forms of stated choice task nonattendance, each derived from separately framed questions asked immediately following the completion of each choice task. We also evaluate a measure of inferred serial nonattendance based on the posterior distributions of random coefficient estimates. We find that choice task nonattendance question framing statistically impacts marginal utility coefficients and, to a lesser degree, willingness‐to‐pay estimates. While direct questions addressing attribute attendance or nonattendance affect these estimates, inferred indicators of serial nonattendance suggest that many attributes are not likely ignored as often as respondents may indicate. Further research is needed to assess inferred versus stated approaches to modeling respondent information processing strategies.
Zinc acetate lozenges for treating the common cold: an individual patient data meta‐analysis
Authors: Hemilä Harri , Petrus Edward J. , Fitzgerald James T. , Prasad Ananda
Published: July 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine whether the allergy status and other characteristics of common cold patients modify the effects of zinc acetate lozenges.

Methods

We had available individual patient data for three randomized placebo‐controlled trials in which zinc acetate lozenges were administered to common cold patients. We used both one stage and two stage meta‐analysis to estimate the effects of zinc lozenges.

Results

The total number of common cold patients was 199, the majority being females. Eighty percent of them fell into the age range 20–50 years. One third of the patients had allergies. The one stage meta‐analysis gave an overall estimate of 2.73 days (95% CI 1.8, 3.3 days) shorter colds by zinc acetate lozenge usage. The two stage meta‐analysis gave an estimate of 2.94 days (95% CI 2.1, 3.8 days) reduction in common cold duration. These estimates are to be compared with the 7 day average duration of colds in the three trials. The effect of zinc lozenges was not modified by allergy status, smoking, baseline severity of the common cold, age, gender or ethnic group.

Conclusion

Since the effects of zinc acetate lozenges were consistent between the compared subgroups, the overall estimates for effect seemed applicable over a wide range of common cold patients. While the optimal composition of zinc lozenges and the best frequency of their administration should be further investigated, given the current evidence of efficacy, common cold patients may be encouraged to try zinc lozenges for treating their colds.
The pan‐Kv7 (KCNQ) Channel Opener Retigabine Inhibits Striatal Excitability by Direct Action on Striatal Neurons In Vivo
Authors: Hansen Henrik H. , Weikop Pia , Mikkelsen Maria D. , Rode Frederik , Mikkelsen Jens D.
Published: July 2016

Central Kv7 (KCNQ) channels are voltage‐dependent potassium channels composed of different combinations of four Kv7 subunits, being differently expressed in the brain. Notably, striatal dopaminergic neurotransmission is strongly suppressed by systemic administration of the pan‐Kv7 channel opener retigabine. The effect of retigabine likely involves the inhibition of the activity in mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons projecting to the striatum, but whether Kv7 channels expressed in the striatum may also play a role is not resolved. We therefore assessed the effect of intrastriatal retigabine administration on striatal neuronal excitability in the rat determined by c‐Fos immunoreactivity, a marker of neuronal activation. When retigabine was applied locally in the striatum, this resulted in a marked reduction in the number of c‐Fos‐positive neurons after a strong excitatory striatal stimulus induced by acute systemic haloperidol administration in the rat. The relative mRNA levels of Kv7 subunits in the rat striatum were found to be Kv7.2 = Kv7.3 = Kv7.5 > >Kv7.4. These data suggest that intrastriatal Kv7 channels play a direct role in regulating striatal excitability in vivo.