bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refurbishment of an Au-coated toroidal mirror by capacitively coupled RF plasma discharge
Authors: Yadav Praveen Kumar , Kumar Mukund , Gupta Raj Kumar , Sinha Mangalika , Chakera J. A , Modi M. H
Published: May 2019

Deposition of synchrotron-radiation-induced carbon contamination on beamline optics causes their performance to deteriorate, especially near the carbon K edge. The photon flux losses due to carbon contamination have spurred researchers to search for a suitable decontamination technique to restore the optical surface and retain its performance. Several in situ and ex situ refurbishing strategies for beamline optics are still under development to solve this serious issue. In this work, the carbon contamination is removed from a large (340 mm × 60 mm) Au-coated toroidal mirror surface using a capacitively coupled low-pressure RF plasma. Before and after RF plasma cleaning, the mirror was characterized by Raman spectroscopy, soft X-ray reflectivity (SXR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques. The Raman spectra of the contaminated mirror clearly show the G (1575–1590 cm−1) and D (1362–1380 cm−1) bands of graphitic carbon. The SXR curve of the contaminated mirror shows a clear dip near the critical momentum transfer of carbon, indicating the presence of carbon contamination on the mirror surface. This dip disappears after removal of the contamination layer by RF plasma exposure. A decrease in the intensities of the CO bands is also observed by optical emission spectrometry during plasma exposure. The AFM and SXR results suggest that the root-mean-square (r.m.s.) roughness of the mirror surface does not increase after plasma exposure.
Structure and piezochromism of pyrene-1-carbaldehyde at high pressure
Authors: Tchoń Daniel , Makal Anna
Published: May 2019

The crystal structure of pyrene-1-carbaldehyde (PA), a model polyaromatic hydrocarbon, highly luminescent in the solid state and crystallizing in the triclinic system, has been re-determined at several pressures ranging from atmospheric up to 3 GPa using a diamond anvil cell. A `multi-crystal' approach was used in crystal structure determination, significantly improving completeness of X-ray diffraction data attainable for such a low-symmetry system. The crystal structure consists of infinite π-stacks of PA molecules with discernible dimers, which resemble aggregates formed by pyrene derivatives in solution as well as in the solid state. A series of measurements showed that the average inter-planar distance between individual molecules within π-stacks decreases with pressure in the investigated range. This results in piezochromic properties of PA: a significant sample color change as well as a red-shift of fluorescence with pressure, as studied with UV–vis spectroscopy. Periodic DFT calculations allowed us to relate the variations in the crystal structure with pressure to the changes in the electronic structure of this material.
Perovskite R{\bar 3}c phase AgCuF3: multiple Dirac cones, 100% spin polarization and its thermodynamic properties
Authors: Kuang Minquan , Li Tingzhou , Cheng Zhenxiang , Khachai Houari , Khenata R. , Yang Tie , Lin Tingting , Wang Xiaotian
Published: May 2019

Very recently, experimentally synthesized R{\bar 3}c phase LaCuO3 was studied by Zhang, Jiao, Kou, Liao & Du [J. Mater. Chem. C (2018), 6, 6132–6137], and they found that this material exhibits multiple Dirac cones in its non-spin-polarized electronic structure. Motivated by this study, the focus here is on a new R{\bar 3}c phase material, AgCuF3, which has a combination of multiple Dirac cones and 100% spin polarization properties. Compared to the non-spin-polarized system LaCuO3, the spin-polarized Dirac behavior in AgCuF3 is intrinsic. The effects of on-site Coulomb interaction, uniform strain and spin–orbit coupling were added to examine the stability of its multiple Dirac cones and half-metallic behavior. Moreover, the thermodynamic properties under different temperatures and pressures were investigated, including the normalized volume, thermal volume expansion coefficient, heat capacity at constant volume and Debye temperature. The thermal stability and the phase stability of this material were also studied via ab initio molecular dynamic simulations and the formation energy of the material, respectively.
ss-NMR and single-crystal X-ray diffraction in the elucidation of a new polymorph of bischalcone (1E,4E)-1,5-bis(4-fluorophenyl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one
Authors: Ferreira Lívia O. A. , Valdo Ana Karoline S. M. , Nascimento Neto José Antônio , Ribeiro Leandro , Silva Jefferson R. D. da , Queiroz Luiz H. K. , Perez Caridad N. , Martins Felipe T.
Published: May 2019

We report a new polymorph of (1E,4E)-1,5-bis(4-fluorophenyl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one, C17H12F2O. Contrary to the precedent literature polymorph with Z′ = 3, our polymorph has one half molecule in the asymmetric unit disordered over two 50% occupancy sites. Each site corresponds to one conformation around the single bond vicinal to the carbonyl group (so-called anti or syn). The other half of the bischalcone is generated by twofold rotation symmetry, giving rise to two half-occupied and overlapping molecules presenting both anti and syn conformations in their open chain. Such a disorder allows for distinct patterns of intermolecular C—H...O contacts involving the carbonyl and anti-oriented β-C—H groups, which is reflected in three 13C NMR chemical shifts for the carbonyl C atom. Here, we have also assessed the cytotoxicity of three symmetric bischalcones through their in vitro antitumour potential against three cancer cell lines. Cytotoxicity assays revealed that this biological property increases as halogen electronegativity increases.
2-[(4-Bromophenyl)sulfanyl]-2-methoxy-1-phenylethan-1-one: crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and computational chemistry
Authors: Caracelli Ignez , Zukerman-Schpector Julio , Traesel Henrique J. , Olivato Paulo R. , Jotani Mukesh M. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: May 2019

The title compound, C15H13BrO2S, comprises three different substituents bound to a central (and chiral) methine-C atom, i.e. (4-bromophenyl)sulfanyl, benzaldehyde and methoxy residues: crystal symmetry generates a racemic mixture. A twist in the molecule is evident about the methine-C—C(carbonyl) bond as evidenced by the O—C—C—O torsion angle of −20.8 (7)°. The dihedral angle between the bromobenzene and phenyl rings is 43.2 (2)°, with the former disposed to lie over the oxygen atoms. The most prominent feature of the packing is the formation of helical supramolecular chains as a result of methyl- and methine-C—H...O(carbonyl) interactions. The chains assemble into a three-dimensional architecture without directional interactions between them. The nature of the weak points of contacts has been probed by a combination of Hirshfeld surface analysis, non-covalent interaction plots and interaction energy calculations. These point to the importance of weaker H...H and C—H...C interactions in the consolidation of the structure.
Crystal structure of di-μ-chlorido-bis[dichlorido(L-histidinium-κO)cadmium(II)]
Authors: Mohamedi Nacira , Elleuch Slim , Boufas Sihem , Legouira Messaoud , Djazi Faiçal
Published: May 2019

In the title compound, [Cd2(C6H9N3O2)2Cl6], the coordination polyhedra around the CdII cations are distorted trigonal bipyramids. Two of the chloride ions (one axial and one equatorial) are bridging to the other metal atom, leading to a Cd...Cd separation of 3.9162 (4) Å. The O atom of the L-histidinium cation lies in an axial site. In the crystal, numerous N—H...Cl, N—H...O, C—H...O and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds link the molecules into a three-dimensional network. Theoretical calculations and spectroscopic data are available as supporting information.
Food insecurity among college students in West Texas
Authors: Abu Brenda , Oldewage-Theron Wilna
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Food insecurity is an evolving nutrition issue affecting both developed and underdeveloped college campuses. The purpose of this paper is to assess food insecurity and related coping strategies among Texas Tech University students.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a cross-sectional online survey in Lubbock, Texas, among college students (n=173). The outcome measures, socio-demographic factors, household food insecurity access) and dietary diversity were assessed using validated tools. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. Socio-demographic differences in food security status were examined using χ2, and means testing. Risks of student food insecurity were assessed using odds ratios (ORs).

Findings

Respondents were mostly female (70 percent), non-Hispanic white (58 percent) and young adults’ (median age: 22.0 (20.0, 27.0)), with a median monthly income of $1,000 (0.0, 1,500) and spent about a fifth of their income on food. More students were food insecure (59.5 percent) compared to those who experienced food security (40.5 percent) (p<0.001). Some of the severe food insecure students (16.7 percent) reported going to bed without food (6.9 percent) in the prior 30 days. Students with monthly food budgets of ⩽ $200 were 3.2 times more likely to be food insecure (OR=3.231: CI: 1.353–7.714; p=0.010) compared to those with higher food budgets. A students’ choice of priority monthly expenses was significantly associated with food security status; however, further risk assessment of dichotomous “prioritized food” and “prioritized other expenses” was not statistically significant.

Originality/value

Student’s food budget of $200 was the strongest determinant of food insecurity. Individual training on money management and meal planning are recommended. University policies should recognize and develop academic support policies addressing competing expenses with food.
Sustainable marketing strategy in food and drink industry: a comparative analysis of B2B and B2C SMEs operating in Europe
Authors: Rudawska Edyta
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The paper aims to make a contribution by providing a comprehensive understanding of the scope of the implementation of sustainable marketing tools in SMEs operating in the food and drink industry in Europe. The focus will be put on the identification of differences between companies operating in business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-customer (B2C) context.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical basis is a survey of 770 European SMEs, of which 369 operate in Western European countries (including UK, Germany and Spain) and 401 in Central and Eastern Europe (including Poland, Croatia and Russia). The respondents in the particular countries were stratified according to company size, measured by the number of employees. The research covered 316 micro companies, 5 small companies and 209 medium ones. The questionnaire was completed by the managing directors of the enterprises (CEOs) or heads of the marketing departments (CMOs). The research was conducted between April 2016 and January 2017. An in-depth analysis of the findings helped to identify differences between the two groups of SMEs, i.e. operating in the B2B and B2C context, in terms of the extent of sustainable marketing implementation. The non-parametric U Mann–Whitney test was used to examine the significance of the differences between the two groups of companies.

Findings

The research results suggest that both groups of B2B and B2C companies implement sustainable marketing tools to some extent. However, in most cases, B2B organizations do it to a significantly greater extent. Nevertheless, these activities relate mainly to those tools, which are directly visible to customers, both institutional and individual, such as packaging, product ingredients or certificates. To a lesser extent, they involve marketing activities of an internal nature, such as production process and the level of energy, water or resources used.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the author, this is the first empirical research study on the implementation of the sustainable marketing concept in SMEs operating in European countries. The study is a comparative analysis of the phenomenon between B2B and B2C companies, which has not been previously researched.
Power advantage: antecedents and consequences in supplier–retailer relationships
Authors: Low Wen Shinn , Li Cheng Ta
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The research indicates that relatively powerful firms exploit their advantages to damage their weaker partners. However, how power can be abused by advantaged firms remains unclear. This study aims to examine the relationship between power advantage and abuse of power and whether the power advantage mediates the relationship between dependence and personal interests and between trust and company performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 130 retailers in Taiwan were investigated. Partial least squares regression was performed to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results of this study show that power-advantaged firms are more likely to abuse their power; however, the purposes are more for their company performance than for personal interests. Power advantage has different mediating effects on the dependence–personal interests and trust–company performance relationships.

Research limitations/implications

Considering both time and cost limitations, this study investigated one aspect of the retailer–supplier dyad in northern Taiwan. The samples collected may be influenced by the nature of the industry and sampling method, possibly limiting the generalizability of the research results.

Practical implications

This study can help channel managers with a power advantage to have an improved understanding of their salespersons’ behavioral patterns, particularly gaining personal interests from customers.

Originality/value

This study expands the understanding of the antecedents and consequences of power advantages in supplier–retailer relationships. It also highlights in specific institutional arrangements, the weaker parties’ efforts to endure their counterparts’ use of their power advantage to serve their personal interests. Future research may analyze abuse of power by expanding research to other industries and different cultural contexts.
Green consumption behaviours of consumers within the scope of TPB
Authors: Emekci Simge
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explain the factors that affect the green buying behaviours and the relations between these factors. For this purpose, three main factors were added to the Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to develop a more comprehensive model, namely, environmental concern, environmental knowledge and perceived consumer effectiveness (PCE). It is believed that these variables could help understanding the green buying behaviour and extending the TPB model.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, quantitative research has been made to test the relations in the proposed model. The target population in this research is individuals living in Turkey, both sexes of age over 18 years. The data were collected through an online survey between May and August of 2017. The data were statistically analysed with structural equation modelling and interpreted using the statistical software AMOS version 20.0.

Findings

The findings show that PCE is the variable that has the highest influence on the attitudes towards behaviour, intentions and green buying behaviour in the proposed model. It is possible to say that the PCE variable added to the model is an important variable that improved and strengthened the measurement model. Variables added to the model are compatible with Ajzen’s original model.

Research limitations/implications

The obtained data may not be generalised throughout Turkey. However, it is believed that the data obtained can give a general idea for green buying behaviour of individuals in Turkey.

Practical implications

The obtained data provide a contribution to the marketing communication experts and the literature. Research findings contribute to explaining green consumption behaviours in developing countries.

Originality/value

In this research, the gap between consumers’ attitudes and their behaviours has been researched. Understanding the reason for this gap is essential to increase green consumption in developing countries. The number of studies in this field in Turkey is not very much. For this reason, this study is thought to contribute to the field.
The effect of SOX on audit quality
Authors: Kim Moo Sung , Dandu Jagadish , Iren Perihan
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate two issues. First, the authors test the effect of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX) on audit quality after 10 years. Second, the authors test whether it was necessary to close all of the Arthur Andersen offices due to the misbehavior of a few (e.g. the Houston and Atlanta offices).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used conservatism (Basu) as a proxy for audit quality.

Findings

The authors find that, over the long run (10 years) after SOX adoption, there is a significant positive change in conservatism as compared to during the previous similar period. In addition, the authors find that only 6 of the 20 city-level offices of Arthur Andersen were less conservative than were their other Big 6 competitors in the same city. Furthermore, the results also suggest that some city-level offices of Arthur Andersen were engaged in more conservative accounting practices than were their competitors and the Houston Andersen offices.

Originality/value

This study documents, using empirical evidence, that the implementation of SOX is successful, and that one factor that helped lead to this success might be the harsh punishment on Arthur Andersen.
The relationship between foreign aid and corruption: a case of selected Asian countries
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Khan Lubna , Sohail Amna , Puah Chin Hong
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of foreign aid (FA) on corruption in selected Asian countries (Pakistan, India, Srilanka and Bangladesh) using the panel data from 2000 to 2014.

Design/methodology/approach

The author used Levin-Lin-Chu and Im-Pesaran-Shin panel unit root tests to check the stationary properties of the variables. The Pedroni’s and Kao panel cointegration approach was applied to analyze the variable’s long-run relationship. The author used panel dynamic ordinary least squares (PDOLS) and fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) framework to estimate the coefficients of cointegrating vectors. Additionally, the panel granger causality test was performed to check the causal relationship between the variables.

Findings

The results from PDOLS and FMOLS indicate that FA has a significant negative impact on the level of corruption. This infers that the foreign assistance decrease the level of corruption perception index, hence, more corruption in the country.

Originality/value

Overall, the study fulfills the need to understand the aid-corruption nexus, particularly in the case of the Asian region.
Conceptualizing corruption prevention: a systematic literature review
Authors: Bautista-Beauchesne Nicholas , Garzon César
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Existing reviews about corruption and anti-corruption have yet to treat the subject of prevention as the main focus of inquiry. The purpose of this paper is to address this need by analyzing definitions, theoretical underpinnings, methods and sectors of interest within published academic articles. By doing so, the main objective is to clarify the theoretical and conceptual foundations of the prevention of corruption.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design consists of a systematic literature review, which uses a keyword-string search method across relevant databases. A qualitative and quantitative coding scheme was implemented to provide descriptive statistics.

Findings

Results show a need for methodological diversity, theoretical debate and a clarification of the definitional foundations of corruption prevention. Specifically, the results underline a need for more interdisciplinary collaboration between the various fields that study the issue. To this end, a conceptualization of corruption prevention is proposed, built around a two by two matrix, to synthesize existing definitions and spark scholarly debate.

Practical implications

This paper contributes to the field of anti-corruption on a theoretical level by highlighting the current strengths and weaknesses of the inroads made by the existing literature. Moreover, on a practical research level, this paper suggests fruitful lines of inquiry to channel a rapidly expanding field of study.

Social implications

This paper underlines the need for corruption prevention policymaking to take note of the broad literature emanating from multiple social science disciplines. This paper also underlines the need for policy implementation to consider the socio-historical context and definitional idiosyncrasies of corruption for policy effectiveness.

Originality/value

A core original contribution of this paper is to advance a definition and conceptualization of corruption prevention. Using two conceptual axes – focus and scope – prevention tools are categorized and analyzed to spark further scholarly debate.
Impact of economic and financial crimes on economic growth in emerging and developing countries
Authors: Saddiq Sani Abubakar , Abu Bakar Abu Sufian
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of economic and financial crimes on the economies of emerging and developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and meta-analysis of economics research reporting guidelines were used to conduct a quantitative synthesis of empirical evidence on the impact of economic and financial crimes in developing and emerging countries.

Findings

A total of 103 studies were searched, out of which 6 met the selection/eligibility criteria of this systematic review. The six selected studies indicated that economic and financial crimes have a negative impact in emerging and developing countries.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the authors, no published systematic review of the impact of economic and financial crimes in developing countries has been conducted to date.
A comparative study of retail banking practices in compliance with regulatory standard
Authors: Mittal Suman , Garg Krishan K. , Aggarwal Renu
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The Indian banking industry has undergone many changes with the advent of changing economic environment in the country. Many changes have taken place in terms of customer services, work culture, infrastructure, approach to sales and customer relationship management amongst others. This paper aims to attempt to evaluate the adherence of BCSBI code by the banks. Customer perception has been evaluated to analyse the adherence of the code. Also, the authors have tried to evaluate the impact of customer type (mass and class customers) and bank type (based on bank ownership- private and public banks) on the compliance of the code by the bankers or minimum regulatory requirements with respect to customer services. Questionnaire has been developed as per the Banking Code and Standard Board of India (a customer services cell of Reserve Bank of India), and BCSBI has been used as a regulatory standard to compare the level of compliance by the banks.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data have been collected from private and public sector banks. In the first step, instrument validity and reliability has been checked by using structural equation modelling; in the second step, descriptive statistics has been used to know the extent of fulfillment of standard by banks; and in the third step, a two-way multivariate analysis of variances has been used to do the comparative analyses of the respondents data.

Findings

The overall finding of the research shows that overall adherence of the dimension of code are not in sync with the objective of the code. Study also has shown the mindset of the Indian bankers that how they predominantly serve the class customers and push those products to the customers which are target based or earn profitability for the banks and incentives for the banker. Private banks are ahead in compliance with respect to the customer services, but they are also ahead in sales malpractices.

Practical implications

This study is an eye opener for the regulators, as per BCSBI regulations, surprise supervision take place every year, but this study shows the ineffectiveness of that supervision. Following the BCSBI norms by the banks is just eyewash of regulators, but all the norms are fulfilled only in papers but not in actual practice.

Originality/value

The research paper is original piece of work; the researcher did not find any study related to BCSBI code in Indian as well as in international literature.
A Gadamerian perspective on financial crimes
Authors: Dion Michel
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to see to what extent Hans-Georg Gadamer’s hermeneutic philosophy could be used to unveil how corporate discourse about financial crimes (in codes of ethics) is closely linked to the process of understanding.

Design/methodology/approach

Corporate ethical discourse of 20 business corporations will be analyzed, as it is conveyed within their codes of ethics. The companies came from five countries (USA, Canada, France, Switzerland and Brazil). In the explanatory study, the following industries were represented (two companies by industry): aircrafts/trains, military, airlines, recreational vehicles, soft drinks, cigarettes, pharmaceuticals, beauty products, telecommunications and banks.

Findings

Historically-based prejudices in three basic narrative strategies (silence, chosen items and detailed discussion) about financial crimes are related to the mindset, to the basic outlook on corporate self-interest or to an absolutizing attitude.

Research limitations/implications

The historically-based prejudices that have been identified in this explanatory study should be analyzed in longitudinal studies.

Practical implications

The historically-based prejudices that have been identified in this explanatory study should be analyzed in longitudinal studies. Historically-based prejudices could be strengthened by the way corporate codes of ethics deal with financial crimes. They could, thus, have a deep impact on the organizational culture in the long-run.

Originality/value

The paper analyzes the way corporate codes of ethics use given narrative strategies to address financial crimes issues. It also unveils historically-based prejudices that follow from the choice of one or the other narrative strategy.
Demography, demand and devotion: driving the Islamic economy
Authors: Randeree Kasim
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse three drivers of the Islamic economy: global Muslim demography; operational sectors and demand; and faith-based consumerism.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper follows a constructivist approach to the Islamic economy, undertaken through an exploratory study of global Muslim population, the growth in opportunities in the Islamic economy and plurality of religious thought across the diaspora.

Findings

The research finds four trends (t) positively impacting the growth of the Islamic economy: (t1) above-nominal increase in global Muslim population, with greater intra-religious interactions of varying Muslim cultures; (t2) an increasing demand for a diversity ofShari’ah-compliant andhalalproducts and services; (t3) improving socio-economic status of Muslims in developed and emerging countries; and (t4) a widening perspective of faith understanding and rising interest in religious literacy.

Research limitations/implications

This research serves to inform global businesses of opportunities in Islamic economy sectors, highlighting global demographic change and informing how business is impacted through the plurality of Muslim faith interpretation.

Practical implications

Based on this research, businesses can better align their services with the socio-economic environment and faith sensibilities of Muslim consumers.

Originality/value

The paper provides a first look at the activity across Islamic economic sectors and disaggregates their activity and potential for growth across Muslim-majority and Muslim-minority markets. In particular, three areas were examined – demography, emergent Muslim lifestyles and religiosity.
Socialization and the buying behaviour of the Arab child consumers: insights from Oman
Authors: Ghouse Suhail M. , Chaudhary Monica , Durrah Omar
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to explore and analyze the various consumer socialization agents for the young Omani Arab children, who play a key role in the family purchase process.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed method research approach was adopted in the form of a survey and short interviews for the study. The study was performed on the children in the age group of 7-14 years, enrolled in Omani schools. The socialization factors were grouped through the exploratory factor analysis and multiple regression analysis was conducted to assess the impact of the factors on the purchase of various product categories. Finally, short personal interviews with the children were made to validate the results.

Findings

A model was proposed incorporating the four different socialization patterns of Omani children involving parents, friends, television and internet. The model was tested with the purchase of different product categories through multiple regression analysis. The results supported the parents, television and friends while rejected the internet as a means of socialization of Omani children. The qualitative analysis also revealed the same results, further incorporating the role of other family members in the socialization of the children.

Research limitations/implications

A research gap exists in the consumer literature related to the Arab child socialization as the previous scholars had contributed mainly in the developed Western context, hence, demanding further research studies in the young Arab consumers’ perspective.

Practical implications

Being the first of its type in the regional context, the research is important for the researchers who wish to understand the socialization process and its agents for the Omani Arab children. The research provides insights about the psychology of Omani children towards the products, which can aid the marketers to design appropriate marketing programmes targeting the growing child segment in the Arab world.

Originality/value

A significant research gap exists and suggests a research study on the patterns of socialization of the Arab children as no similar research had been previously conducted related to this context on child socialization. This research will serve as a base for future research studies in the socialization and purchase behavior of the Arab children.
Social care for adults with learning disabilities in England: trends over time
Authors: Hatton Chris
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine trends over time in social care usage and expenditure for adults with learning disabilities in England.

Design/methodology/approach

Returns from councils with social services responsibilities in England concerning social care usage and expenditure were analysed to examine the national picture and trends over time for adults with learning disabilities.

Findings

In 2017/2018, 147,915 adults with learning disabilities were receiving long-term social care, an increase of 5.7 per cent from 2014/2015. Social care expenditure increased by 10.2 per cent from 2014/2015 to £5.54bn in 2017/2018; adjusted for inflation this was a 2.7 per cent increase. For adults with learning disabilities who receive social care, increasing numbers of people are living with families or in supported accommodation/living, with gradual declines in the number of people living in residential or nursing care. The number of adults with learning disabilities in temporary accommodation is small but increasing.

Social implications

While councils appear to be attempting to protect social care for adults with learning disabilities in the face of cuts to council expenditure, social care expenditure and coverage are not keeping pace with likely increases in the number of adults with learning disabilities requiring social care.

Originality/value

This paper presents in one place statistics concerning long-term social care for adults with learning disabilities in England.
Commentary on “Thinking differently? Autism and quality of life”
Authors: Waldock Krysia Emily
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the possible impact of normalisation on the perceptions of quality of life (QoL) and the impact of this association on the research to date. This commentary reflects on the implications of limiting QoL research to autistic people who are perceived to be “more able”.

Design/methodology/approach

This commentary discusses the implications of undertaking QoL research in the field of autism.

Findings

This commentary argues for further consideration of the autistic voice in QoL research. Researcher epistemology and life experience, including experience of autistic people, is examined in terms of how QoL might be perceived and attributed. Further participatory research in the field of quality of life of autistic people, including those with a learning disability and engagement with a variety of autistic people, is called for.

Originality/value

This commentary suggests that the existing definitions of QoL, founded on principles of normalisation, may not be completely applicable to autistic people, and that new ways of both defining and measuring QoL might be needed.
The Ealing Intensive Therapeutic and Short Breaks Service: an update five years on
Authors: Dilks-Hopper Heather , Jacobs Chloe , Sholl Catherine , Falconer Caroline , Gore Nick
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an update on the Ealing Intensive Therapeutic and Short Breaks Service (ITSBS).

Design/methodology/approach

The challenges the service has faced are reviewed, including the service’s response to those challenges. Also provided is a more detailed analysis of the outcomes of the service.

Findings

The ITSBS continues to succeed in supporting young people with intellectual disabilities and challenging behaviour to stay at home with their families.

Originality/value

Despite considerable challenges and adaptations to the model, the ITSBS is still achieving successful outcomes for vulnerable young people and is considered nationally to be a best-practice model. Few prior articles have provided an account of how innovative service models are maintained and evolve over time.
Spider webs, stable isotopes and molecular gut content analysis: Multiple lines of evidence support trophic niche differentiation in a community of Hawaiian spiders
Authors: Kennedy Susan , Lim Jun Ying , Clavel Joanne , Krehenwinkel Henrik , Gillespie Rosemary G.
Published: May 2019

Adaptive radiations are typically characterized by niche partitioning among their constituent species. Trophic niche partitioning is particularly important in predatory animals, which rely on limited food resources for survival.

We test for trophic niche partitioning in an adaptive radiation of Hawaiian Tetragnatha spiders, which have diversified in situ on the Hawaiian Islands. We focus on a community of nine species belonging to two different clades, one web‐building and the other actively hunting, which co‐occur in wet forest on East Maui. We hypothesize that trophic niches differ significantly both: (a) among species within a clade, indicating food resource partitioning, and (b) between the two clades, corresponding to their differences in foraging strategy.

To assess niches of the spider species, we measure: (a) web architecture, the structure of the hunting tool, and (b) site choice, the physical placement of the web in the habitat. We then test whether differences in these parameters translate into meaningful differences in trophic niche by measuring (c) stable isotope signatures of carbon and nitrogen in the spiders’ tissues, and (d) gut content of spiders based on metabarcoding data.

We find significant interspecific differences in web architecture and site choice. Importantly, these differences are reflected in stable isotope signatures among the five web‐building species, as well as significant isotopic differences between web‐builders and active hunters. Gut content data also show interspecific and inter‐clade differences. Pairwise overlaps of web architecture between species are positively correlated with overlaps of isotopic signature.

Our results reveal trophic niche partitioning among species within each clade, as well as between the web‐building and actively hunting clades. Based on the correlation between web architecture and stable isotopes, it appears that the isotopic signatures of spiders’ tissues are influenced by architectural differences among their webs. Our findings indicate an important link between web structure, microhabitat preference and diet in the Hawaiian Tetragnatha.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Optimisation of foam‐mat drying of yoghurt and properties of powdered yoghurt
Authors: Malik Manisha , Sharma Alka
Published: May 2019

Foam‐mat drying was optimised by studying the effects of different concentrations of soy lecithin on foam density and foam expansion of yoghurt. Sample thickness was studied by drawing drying and moisture ratio curves during drying in electric tray dehydrator at 58–63 °C. Prepared powder was analysed to study the impact of foaming agent on yoghurt powder. Evaluation of bulk properties was done to reduce storage and transportation volume. Wettability, water absorption capacity and insolubility index were determined to study effects on functional properties. Scanning electron microscope was performed for studying surface properties. No significant changes were observed in bulk properties, but treatment significantly affected functional and surface properties.
Snail assemblages: interrogating an environmental controversy involvingPowelliphanta augustaand the mining industry inAotearoaNewZealand
Authors: Le Heron Erena
Published: May 2019

In 2004, a controversy arose in Aotearoa New Zealand's coal mining sector that involvedPowelliphanta augusta, a species of land snail. This paper considers that controversy in terms of emergent assemblages involving the snail, the mining industry, the Department of Conservation, political action by environmental non‐government organisations, and public expressions of environmental and other values. Three sets of relations embedded in those assemblages are examined—those related to positioning and organising nature; values, politics, and power relations; and human and non‐human materialities. Those relations illuminate how a protracted controversy and its objects form a “social test bed” for contested views in legislation and guidelines dealing with economy, conservation, and restoration. To assess the dynamics, complexities, and contingencies of such relations, attention is paid to the controversy's detailed time line and legal framing, as well as to ontological shifts of snail and habitat and snail metrics. This analytical focus highlights the shifting quality of ideas about how the snail and its habitat are understood as entangled in fraught and mutating strategies of translocation that are played out in a particular regulatory setting. It also provides insights into international geographical efforts to re‐shape environmental governance and management.
Remembering and forgetting 1974: the 2011 Brisbane floods and memories of an earlier disaster
Authors: McKinnon Scott
Published: May 2019

The city of Brisbane, capital of the Australian state of Queensland, sits on a floodplain and has been struck by two devastating flood disasters in the last 50 years. This article contributes to the growing literature on disaster memory by tracing memories of a flood in 1974 as they were constructed and re‐enacted in a more recent disaster in 2011. The article examines how disaster memories shape local identities and considers how such memories influence policy and local knowledge, doing so by reference to an analysis of three forms of memory media—personal narratives, news media reporting, and built memorials. At times, memories of 1974 enabled Brisbane residents to prepare for an oncoming flood and to understand the scope of the 2011 event. Yet other memories produced a form of forgetting by positioning the earlier flood as a successfully navigated event now safely contained in the past. Findings from the analysis thus point to the importance of understanding memories of past disasters as a critical element of disaster planning and management.
The role of double‐balloon enteroscopy in reducing the maximum size of polyps in patients with Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome: 12‐year experience
Authors: Wang Yu Xin , Bian De Jian , Zhu Hui Yun , Dong Yuan Hang , Fang Ai Qiao , Li Zhao Shen , Du Yi Qi
Published: May 2019

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the role of double‐balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in treating intestinal polyps in patients with Peutz‐Jeghers syndrome (PJS).

Methods

All patients diagnosed with PJS who underwent a polypectomy under DBE from October 2006 to December 2018 were enrolled. Their clinical records, including surgical history, the method of DBE insertion, the number of DBE procedures, and the maximum size and number of the resected polyps, were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Altogether 97 patients were enrolled. For both antegrade and retrograde DBE the maximum size of the resected polyps during the second hospitalization was significantly smaller than that during the first hospitalization (antegrade DBE: [2.13 ± 1.51] cm vs [3.63 ± 0.92] cm, P = 0.012; retrograde DBE: [1.20 ± 1.10] cm vs [2.95 ± 1.95] cm, P = 0.03), but was significantly larger than that during the third hospitalization (antegrade DBE: [2.13 ± 1.51] cm vs [0.88 ± 0.70] cm, P = 0.012; retrograde DBE: [1.20 ± 1.10] cm vs [0.46 ± 0.40] cm, P = 0.048). The interval between the second and third hospitalizations was significantly longer than that between the first and second hospitalizations ([899.00 ± 382.12] days vs [537.27 ± 326.28] days, P = 0.027). The success rate of total enteroscopy was 58.3% (28/48), which was not affected by a history of laparotomy (61.5% vs 52.4%, P = 0.528). The complication rate was 4.4%.

Conclusion

DBE is clinically safe and effective for the diagnosis and treatment of intestinal polyps in patients with PJS.
Models for predicting protein requirements for meat quail
Authors: Nogueira Mariana Fátima Z. F. , Marcato Simara M. , Furlan Antônio C. , Zancanela Vittor , Finco Eline Maria , de O. Grieser Daiane , Stanquevis Caroline E. , de Oliveira‐Bruxel Taciana M.
Published: May 2019

Three experiments were carried out to determine the crude protein requirements for maintenance (CPm) and weight gain (CPg) of meat quail and to develop protein‐requirement prediction models. Experiment 1 was conducted to determine CPm by the nitrogen‐balance technique. The regression of nitrogen balance on nitrogen intake revealed a CPm requirement of 2.94 g/kg0.75/day. Experiment 2 was aimed at determining CPm by the comparative‐slaughter technique. Retained nitrogen (RN) and nitrogen intake (NI) were quantified considering the metabolic weight of the birds. The linear regression of RN on NI provided a CPm estimate of 6.63 g/kg0.75/day. Experiment 3 was conducted to determine CPg. The regression of body nitrogen from the carcasses on fasted body weight revealed CPg estimates of 407.68 (0–7 days), 501.76 (8–14 days), 470.40 (0–14 days), 517.44 (15–21 days), 627.20 (22–28 days), 423.36 (29–35 days), and 517.44 mg/g (15–35 days). The protein‐requirement prediction models developed for meat quail aged 0–7, 8–14, 0–14, 15–21, 22–28, 29–35, and 15–35 days were CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0.408.G; CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0.502.G; CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0.470.G; CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0,517.G; CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0.627.G; CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0.423.G; CP = 2.94.W0.75 + 0.517.G, respectively, where: W0.75 =  metabolic weight (kg), and G =  daily weight gain (g).
Engagement as co‐constructing knowledge: A moral necessity in public health research
Authors: Pratt Bridget
Published: May 2019

Undertaking engagement in public health research is ethically essential. There is a growing emphasis on practicing engagement as the co‐construction of knowledge, which goes beyond other common forms of engagement in health research practice: consulting and informing. Taking such an approach means researchers jointly construct knowledge with research users and beneficiaries; all parties design and conduct research together and share decision‐making power. This article makes the normative argument that such engagement is necessary to achieve the foundational moral aims of public health research—building relations of equality and addressing the health needs of those considered disadvantaged—which reflect the field's underlying commitment to social justice. It next identifies and discusses three ways in which co‐constructing knowledge advances those moral aims: by facilitating self‐determination, supporting individuals’ right to research, and maximizing social knowledge to address cognitive and epistemic injustice. Objections to the arguments presented in the article are then articulated and defended against.
Possibility of a risk‐adapted treatment strategy for untreated aggressive adult T‐cell leukaemia‐lymphoma (ATL) based on the ATL prognostic index: a supplementary analysis of the JCOG9801
Authors: Toyoda Kosuke , Tsukasaki Kunihiro , Machida Ryunosuke , Kadota Tomohiro , Fukushima Takuya , Ishitsuka Kenji , Maruyama Dai , Nagai Hirokazu
Published: May 2019

JCOG9801, a randomized phase III trial, reported that vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone (VCAP); doxorubicin, ranimustine and prednisone (AMP); and vindesine, etoposide, carboplatin and prednisone (VECP) (VCAP‐AMP‐VECP; mLSG15) showed superior clinical outcomes when compared to cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone every 2 weeks (CHOP‐14; mLSG19) in patients with untreated aggressive adult T‐cell leukaemia‐lymphoma (ATL). To identify patients who require VCAP‐AMP‐VECP, we conducted a supplementary analysis of JCOG9801. Overall, 105 patients were included and categorized into low‐ (n = 44), intermediate‐ (n = 54) and high‐risk (n = 7) groups according to the age‐adjusted ATL prognostic index (ATL‐PI). We excluded the high‐risk group due to small numbers of patients. VCAP‐AMP‐VECP did not show any superior trend for overall survival (OS) in the low‐risk group (hazard ratio: 1·04; 95% confidence interval: 0·54–2·04). Better OS was observed in the intermediate‐risk group treated with VCAP‐AMP‐VECP (hazard ratio: 0·65; 95% confidence interval: 0·36–1·19). In the intermediate‐risk group, the VCAP‐AMP‐VECP arm showed higher complete response rates than the CHOP‐14 arm (44·0% vs. 13·8%). The VCAP‐AMP‐VECP arm in both risk groups exhibited grade 4 thrombocytopenia, while grade 4 neutropenia was only observed in the intermediate‐risk group. VCAP‐AMP‐VECP remains suitable for the intermediate‐risk group, whereas its benefits appear modest in the low‐risk group.