bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cannabis use during a life course – integrating cannabis use into everyday life
Authors: Asmussen Frank Vibeke , Christensen Anne‐Sofie , Vibeke Dahl Helle
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Overall within cannabis research, only a few studies have specifically targeted the use of cannabis among the adult population, and consequently very little is known about the consumption practices of this user group. The purpose of this paper is to explore how adult cannabis users integrate cannabis use into their daily life; a use that can be characterized as recreational use, i.e. a non‐problematic use of cannabis for pleasure and to get intoxicated. Despite the fact that cannabis use is illegal and larger societal views on consuming cannabis still is subject to stigmatization and “unruly conduct”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on qualitative interviews with 39 persons who were cannabis users as well as growers. The interviewees could not be described as “deviants” and the vast majority of them were socially well integrated. For how long the interviewees had been using cannabis depended on age as well as different life circumstances.

Findings

The paper shows how cannabis users commonly employ two strategies when integrating cannabis use into their everyday life and keeping up a meaningful life: refraining from using cannabis in particular situations and smoking alone. The interviewees in particular find it unacceptable to smoke cannabis when around children, engaging with family members, and when at work. The interview narratives reveal how cannabis consumption as narrated by the interviewees is embedded not only in balancing a controlled use applicable to the everyday situations and practices that the interviewees are engaged in, but also to more wider, societal norms and values around acceptable and unacceptable use of cannabis. The main analytical concept applied is moral reasoning.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to research on adult cannabis users.
Mean‐extended Gini portfolios personalized to the investor's profile
Authors: Cardin Marta , Eisenberg Bennett , Tibiletti Luisa
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Shalit and Yitzhaki presented the mean‐extended Gini (MEG) as a workable alternative to the Markowitz mean‐variance approach in 1984. Since then, the challenge has been to extend the MEG approach. The purpose of this paper is to propose a generalization of the MEG approach for making customized optimal asset allocation to control both down‐performance and/or up‐performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The MEG approach is used to make strategical allocation tailored to the investor risk aversion and gain propensity measured by characteristic parameters of the extended Gini measures.

Findings

The authors set up two optimization problems: the former focused on controlling the risk, the latter on emphasizing the potential gains. Sufficient conditions such that the efficient MEG‐risk frontier coincides with the inefficient MEG‐gain frontier are stated. In the realistic scenarios that portfolios have asymmetrical distributions and/or the investor profile is very conservative or very aggressive, the desirable occurrence that a portfolio is optimal under both optimizations may occur.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this research is to have pointed out that optimal allocation must be tailored to both the investor's risk and gain profile; and, that the optimality may be not preserved if the investor's risk‐gain profile changes. So, the statement “optimal allocation” should be reworded as “optimal allocation personalized to the investor's risk‐aversion and gain‐propensity”.
How do children learn eating practices? Beyond the nutritional information, the importance of social eating
Authors: Hemar‐Nicolas Valérie , Ezan Pascale , Gollety Mathilde , Guichard Nathalie , Leroy Julie
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Drawing on Bronfenbrenner's ecological model, this research aims to investigate the interweaving of the socialization systems within which children learn eating practices, in order to open up new paths to build prevention and care programs against childhood obesity.

Design/methodology/approach

Children were interviewed using semi‐structured interviews, including projective methods. The data were analyzed by both a manual content analysis and the use of qualitative analysis software Nvivo. Nvivo enables to cross verbatim and contributes to highlight the joint effects of socialization agents in terms of children's eating learning.

Findings

The study clarifies the interrelationships between social contexts in which children learn food practices. It points out that the different social spheres may sometimes exert contradictory influences and that food learning cannot be limited to the transmission of nutritional information, but also involves emotional and social experiences.

Social implications

By showing that eating habits stem from complex processes, the research suggests measures against children's obesity that take into account the interrelationships between social contexts. It invites the policymakers and the food companies to implement actions based on social relationships involved in food learning.

Originality/value

Whereas the traditional consumer socialization models focus on interactions between child and one socialization agent, this research's findings shed light on the entanglement of social spheres concerning eating socialization. They show that using a social‐ecological approach is useful to policymakers, researchers, marketers, and other constituencies involved in developing solutions to the obesity problem.
Uncertainty and risk: purchase intentions of new and expectant adopting parents
Authors: Way Danielle , Jeanine Meyers Yuvay
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The consumer culture for expectant parents has changed considerably over the past few decades. Culturally, society places a great deal of emphasis and attention on traditional families and often neglects to recognize non‐traditional families. Although previous consumer literature examines purchase intentions in preparation for parenthood through the traditional biological lens, there have yet to be studies that observe this phenomenon in the context of adoption. This study aims to provide an understanding of the consumer uncertainty and risk that affect purchase intention in this family dynamic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on the psychological dimensions of risk to examine consumer uncertainty as it relates to purchase decisions during the expectant stage of adoption. A literature review was conducted in order to provide a foundation for the study. After finding gaps in the current literature, a mixed approach qualitative study was conducted. Through extensive interviews and focus groups, data were gathered directly from families that meet the scenario requirement and then the findings were analyzed in the phenomenological custom of theme clustering.

Findings

The research showed that adoptive parents as consumers largely associate the uncertainty and risk involved with making purchases for a new child with their lack of reference groups. There is a clear pattern of discontent, on the part of adoptive parents, with the lack of interest in their life changing situation (adoption) paid by family, friends, and marketers. Themes that emerged through the research showed that adoptive families desire to be reflected more in the media and further, to be acknowledged as expectant parents in order to bolster confidence in their purchase decisions.

Originality/value

This research provides marketers with a unique perspective as it relates to adoptive parents as consumers. Through the findings of this study, companies can learn some of the key themes to address if they would like to target this segment of affluent parents. By understanding the uncertainty and risk these consumers feel regarding purchase intentions, these fears can be alleviated by companies hoping to engage this audience.
A domain model for online community building and collaboration in eGovernment and policy modelling
Authors: Kaliva Eleni , Panopoulou Eleni , Tambouris Efthimios , Tarabanis Konstantinos
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a domain model for online community building and collaboration in e‐government and policy modelling.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors followed a structured approach including five distinct steps: define the domain to be investigated; collect domain knowledge from both existing online community building and collaboration platforms and domain experts; analyse the gathered knowledge; develop and evaluate the domain model.

Findings

A domain model was developed for community building and collaboration in eGovernment and policy modelling, including the domain definition, the domain lexicon and the conceptual models modelling its basic entities and functions of the domain. In particular, the UML class diagram was used for modelling the domain entities and the UML use cases diagram for modelling the domain functions.

Originality/value

A literature search revealed a lack of domain models for online community building and collaboration, not only in e‐government and policy modelling but also in general. The proposed model provides a better understanding of the domain. It can also be used in the development of relevant platforms, leading to the reduction of software development costs and delivery time, as well as the improvement of software quality and reliability, by minimising domain analysis errors.
Reinventing marcom for the new marketplace
Authors: Schultz Don E.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this viewpoint is to raise the issue of the development of marketing communication in and for emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual piece which is not supported by formal research. It is based on existing literature and the experience of the author. Previous experience, writings, consulting and teaching are the primary base for the discussion. Suggestions and recommendations for further research and development are made.

Findings

This work suggests that present western models are inappropriate, therefore, it provides an alternative view and a new conceptual model. The model developed has been based on the needs and requirements of emerging markets and is presented and discussed.

Practical implications

This viewpoint provides practitioners with a new, practical way to consider and develop marketing communication programs in emerging markets. It also provides the academic community with a conceptual model which can be tested and refined over time. Thus, it serves a dual purpose: it provides a new, unique and relevant view of marketing communications in emerging markets and it also provides a platform for cooperative research among the academic and professional communities.

Social implications

The concept suggests that consumers now and will in the future control the impact and effect of all forms of marketing communication. There are substantial implications of this shift of marketplace power if the suppositions of the author are accurate.

Originality/value

This viewpoint builds on other research, writing and developmental work by the author. It is the synthesis of several years of research, teaching, consulting and discussion by the author in a number of emerging markets and economies.
Developments in the real‐time evaluation of audience behaviour at planned events
Authors: Brown Steve , Hutton Alison
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore recent technological and methodological developments in the evaluation of audience behaviour at planned events and discuss the implications for researchers in this field, particularly the advantages of evaluating in real‐time. The creation and staging of the event experience – the realm of event design – is predicated on an understanding of the psychosocial domain of the audience. By understanding the motivations, the behaviours and the predispositions that the audience brings to the event, and how event design principles and techniques can be applied to influence audience behaviour in real time, the event designer is able to more successfully create and stage the event experience to meet the aims and objectives of the event.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses international developments in the evaluation of the psychosocial domain of audiences at planned events and the range of research methodologies being used from a practitioner academic perspective. The paper will look at current research being undertaken in Sweden, Austria and Australia and identify trends internationally in this nascent field of research.

Findings

The paper argues that real time data collection of audiences provides insights into the effective design and management of planned events, particularly from the event risk management perspective.

Practical implications

Drawing on work being undertaken in the mass gatherings, tourism and service fields, the paper examines and synthesises these into a proposed model for the effective evaluation of the event audience.

Originality/value

This paper argues for an increase in – and a model for – research on audience behaviour, specifically in the real time capture and analysis of data of audiences at events as a means of developing and understanding of the effects of event design techniques applied at planned events.
Patterns and trends in event tourism study topics over 30 years
Authors: Kim Jungwoon , Boo Soyoung , Kim Yonghwi
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate shifts and patterns evident in event studies over the past 30 years. It aims to review events‐related academic articles published between 1980 and 2010 in the top three tourism journals.

Design/methodology/approach

By reviewing 178 event‐related articles collected from the Annals of Tourism Research, the Journal of Travel Research and Tourism Management, published between 1980 and 2010, a content analysis was carried out in regard to trends in academic writings related to events.

Findings

The study found that, even though the number of event studies has dramatically increased since 2000, and subject areas have become more diversified, the focus has still remained on a very limited number of topics.

Originality/value

The present study will increase awareness among academia and researchers about the characteristics and development of research in event studies; will increase the understating of the meaning of “event” in the tourism industry by reviewing event studies published in tourism journals; will be a useful reference guide for academic researchers who contribute to event studies, which is a relatively new area of research; and will extend practical knowledge of the event field.
The role of criminal cognitions and personality traits in non‐violent recidivism: an empirical investigation within a prison sample
Authors: Bourke Ashling , Boduszek Daniel , Hyland Philip
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The aim of the current study is to investigate criminal psycho‐social cognition, criminal associates and personality traits as predictors of non‐violent recidivism.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of 179 male non‐violent offenders. Each offender completed self‐report measures assessing criminal attitudes, criminal associates, criminal social identity and Eysenck's personality traits. Recidivism was assessed through self‐reported frequency of imprisonment. A sequential moderated multiple regression analysis investigated the relationship between criminal thinking, criminal social identity and level of recidivism with the moderating role of personality.

Findings

Results indicate that criminal thinking is moderated by personality in the prediction of recidivism such that respondents who score high on psychoticism and low on neuroticism and extraversion show a positive association between criminal think styles and recidivism.

Research limitations/implications

It is suggested that future research and risk assessment instruments consider the interaction between risk factors in the prediction of recidivism, rather than investigating the factors independently.

Originality/value

This study is a valuable contribution as it investigates non‐violent recidivism specifically, and informs on the moderating influence of personality in the prediction of this behaviour.
Reconceptualizing the notion of victim selection, risk, and offender behavior in healthcare serial murders
Authors: Lubaszka Christine K. , Shon Phillip C.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Beginning with the understanding that healthcare serial killers differ from traditional serial killers in terms of victim selection, risk and offender behavior, this paper attempts to reconceptualize how the motivations of healthcare serial killers are understood within the scope of care‐giving environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the current literature surrounding serial homicide and serial killers, the paper argues that healthcare serial killers, by virtue of their profession, have an advantage in committing homicides that are less likely to be detected.

Findings

It is found that healthcare professionals work in an environment that is conducive to anti‐social behaviour like homicide. More specifically, recurring conditions within the work place (e.g. lack of a reporting system for problem employees, code of silence amongst employees) adds to the ease with which healthcare serial killers can evade capture.

Originality/value

Research examining healthcare professionals who kill their patients is limited. The current paper provisionally adds to the current understanding of serial homicide. While offering various explanations as to why healthcare serial killers are difficult to detect, this paper also explores some potential solutions for the monitoring of healthcare professionals and protecting the vulnerable patients in their care.
An Integrated Permanent-Magnet Microturbogenerator Supported on Microball Bearings
Authors: Beyaz Mustafa , Hanrahan Brendan , Feldman Jeremy , Ghodssi Reza
Published: March 2013

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and testing of an integrated microturbogenerator utilizing permanent magnets and microball bearings. The key components of this generator are the following: 1) a silicon microturbine rotor housing thick magnetic components; 2) encapsulated microball bearings providing a simple actuation scheme and a robust support structure; and 3) wafer-thick stator coils. The microturbogenerator was designed and fabricated to have a ten-pole rotor and a ten-pole three-turns-per-pole stator. The impedance of the stator coils was shown to be a purely resistive 220 Ω up to 10 kHz. The spin-down characterization of the rotor revealed a dynamic friction torque of 33 μN·m at a rotational speed of 16 kilo rotations per minute (krpm), corresponding to 6% turbine efficiency. The maximum per-phase ac open-circuit voltage and power were measured to be 0.1 V and 5.6 μW on a matched load at 23 krpm, respectively, in full agreement with theoretical analysis and performance estimations. The microturbogenerator presented in this paper provides a flexible design platform for further improvement and will lead to the development of next-generation integrated microturbogenerators offering high power, simple operation, and robust mechanics.
Unravelling the mysteries of a mesopelagic diet: a large apex predator specializes on small prey
Authors: Naito Yasuhiko , Costa Daniel P. , Adachi Taiki , Robinson Patrick W. , Fowler Melinda , Takahashi Akinori
Published: March 2013

To gain insight into the foraging behaviour of deep diving seals, we developed a long‐term jaw‐motion recorder, which successfully measured the feeding attempts of four post‐breeding female northern elephant seals for 55–68 days during migration in the north‐east Pacific Ocean.

Using the jaw‐motion recorders in conjunction with satellite tracking data, we first reveal the three‐dimensional fine‐scale distribution of deep foraging activity in the north‐east Pacific Ocean.

A large number of jaw‐motion events (23 817–58 766 during 2925–4178 dives, per seal) were observed with diel patterns suggesting their dependency on small mesopelagic prey. Calculations using at‐sea field metabolic‐rate and the photographs concurrently obtained by the head‐mounted camera indicated feeding on small mesopelagic prey (10–20 g) including lantern fish (F. Myctophidae).

The foraging behaviour of the northern elephant seal contrasts with echolocating toothed whales, which make fewer feeding attempts, suggesting the whales forage more selectively. We hypothesize that the continuous diving mode exhibited by this seal could be attributed to their reliance on small prey and their less efficient ‘passive sensors’ for prey search, that is, their vision or whiskers to detect prey.
Traumatic abdominal wall herniation: case series review and discussion
Authors: Gutteridge Ian , Towsey Keith , Pollard Cliff
Published: March 2013

Background

Traumatic abdominal wall hernia (TAWH) is a rare type of hernia occurring secondary to blunt trauma to the abdomen. Its management remains controversial within the surgical community, mainly due to complexities in diagnosis, appropriate surgical approach and timing of closure.

Method

Cases were identified retrospectively, via interviews with trauma surgeons at a Tertiary Trauma Centre, the Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, in Brisbane, Australia. In addition, data were collected via in‐house trauma and operative databases.

Results

Five cases of TAWH were identified over a 3‐year period. All cases involved injuries sustained from motor vehicle or motor bike accidents. Diagnosis was purely clinical in one case and clinically suspected, then confirmed by computed tomography in the remainder. Herniation was managed by immediate closure in one instance, delayed/staged closure in three cases and conservative management in the remainder. In addition, three of the five patients were obese. At minimal 3‐month follow‐up, no evidence of recurrence of herniation was present in four of the five cases. One case was lost to follow‐up.

Conclusions

TAWH is a complex injury to manage and no one approach is all encompassing. Correct diagnosis is essential as this allows proper planning for the method and timing of repair. This series highlighted that incorrect seatbelt placement, especially in the obese population, may be a risk factor for increased incidence of TAWH.
The role of 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging in staging prostate cancer
Authors: Johnston Richard , Wong Lih‐Ming , Warren Anne , Shah Nimish , Neal David
Published: March 2013

Background

To review the role of 1.5T (standard) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting pathological T stage of prostate cancer in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy.

Methods

All patients undergoing radical prostatectomy between 2005 and 2010, who had a preoperative MRI, were included in the study. All MRI examinations were performed with a 1.5‐T magnet without an endorectal coil. All the MRIs and prostate specimen histology slides were reviewed by genitourinary radiologists and pathologists at a centralized multidisciplinary team meeting. We calculated the sensitivity and specificity according to D'Amico risk classification. Likelihood ratios were used to test the discriminative ability of MRI.

Results

A total of 568 patients were identified as eligible. Median age was 62 years (35–74). Average prostate‐specific antigen was 8.70 ng/mL (0.5–63). Risk categories included low, intermediate and high risk and contained 198 (34.9%), 303 (53.3%) and 67 (11.8%) patients, respectively. Comparisons between MRI findings and final histology gave a sensitivity of 20.0% and specificity of 80.2%. The positive likelihood ratio was 1.25. Although there was a trend (sr rho = 0.79) towards improved sensitivity as the clinical stage increased, this did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.68).

Conclusion

Standard MRI does not improve preoperative local staging. Therefore, we recommend that standard MRI has no role in the local staging of prostate cancer. The use of higher field strength magnets (e.g. 3.0 T) and/or endorectal coil or the addition of other techniques such as dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI, diffusion‐weighted MRI and MR spectroscopy imaging should therefore be preferentially used in routine clinical practice.
Combined surgical procedures using laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery approach
Authors: Palanivelu C , Ahluwalia Jasmeet Singh , Palanivelu Praveenraj , Palanisamy Senthilnathan , Vij Anirudh
Published: March 2013

Introduction

As our experience with laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) surgeries increased, we considered how it might be employed if two or more surgeries were to be combined. LESS surgeries' cosmetic advantages, decreased parietal trauma and better patient satisfaction relative to standard multiport laparoscopy have been previously reported, but its special role in combined surgeries has never been stressed. In this series, we present the advantages of LESS procedure over multiport laparoscopy in combined surgical procedures. To the best of our knowledge, this has never been reported before.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 27 patients was performed. The patients underwent combined LESS procedures between February 2010 and January 2012 at GEM Hospital, Coimbatore, India. All patients were of ASA grade 1 or 2. Patients with previous surgery in the umbilical region were not offered single‐incision surgery.

Results

We successfully performed 27 combined LESS procedures over a span of 2 years. Twenty patients were women and seven were men. Mean age was 35.94 years (range, 10–66 years). Mean BMI was 27.2. There were no major intraoperative complications. Mean blood loss was 45.7 mL (range, 0.0–120.0 mL). Mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.08 days (range, 1–5 days).

Conclusion

When a suitable case of multiple pathologies is encountered and LESS surgery is feasible for all of them, performing LESS surgery not only has cosmetic advantages over standard laparoscopy, but it also avoids the need for additional ports to achieve adequate visualization and access. All quadrants of the abdomen remain under reach through umbilicus.
Evolving ideas about the male refractory period
Authors: Turley Kenneth R. , Rowland David L.
Published: March 2013

The male refractory period (MRP) continues to be a topic of discussion and debate within the field of sexual medicine. To date explanations rely on central descending (efferent) influences involving specific neurotransmitter systems. Herein we explore the issue of the male refractory period, identifying problems with current explanations, specifying the parameters of an adequate model, and suggesting possible mechanisms mediating this phenomenon.

We review the literature regarding existing explanations for the MRP and look to other systems of physiological regulation that might provide a model for the conceptualization of the MRP.

Our approach differs from traditional explanations in that it emphasizes the possible roles of various peripheral, rather than central, feedback (afferent) systems that affect peripheral autonomic functioning and response.

Yet our approach is consistent with other peripheral regulatory feedback systems controlling autonomic response related to such processes as heart rate, respiration, and gut motility.

Although direct empirical research supporting our approach is lacking, sufficient evidence exists to support the idea that such processes are not only possible but likely with respect to the male refractory period. We suggest several lines of research that might provide empirical support for this approach.
Incidence and risk factors for new‐onset diabetes in living‐donor liver transplant recipients
Authors: Honda Masaki , Asonuma Katsuhiro , Hayashida Shintaro , Suda Hiroko , Ohya Yuki , Lee Kwang‐Jong , Yamamoto Hidekazu , Takeichi Takayuki , Inomata Yukihiro
Published: March 2013

With the increased number of long‐term survivors after liver transplantation, new‐onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is becoming more significant in patient follow‐up. However, the incidence of new‐onset diabetes after living‐donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has not been well elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for NODAT in adult LDLT recipients at a single center in Japan. A retrospective study was performed on 161 adult patients without diabetes who had been followed up for ≥three months after LDLT. NODAT was defined according to the 2003 American Diabetes Association/World Health Organization guidelines. The recipient‐, donor‐, operation‐, and immunosuppression‐associated risk factors for NODAT were assessed. Overall, the incidence of NODAT was 13.7% (22/161) with a mean follow‐up of 49.8 months. In a multivariate analysis, the identified risk factors for NODAT were donor liver‐to‐spleen (L‐S) ratio (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.022, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.001–0.500, p = 0.017), and steroid pulse therapy for acute rejection (HR = 3.320, 95% CI = 1.365–8.075, p = 0.008). In conclusion, donor L‐S ratio and steroid pulse therapy for acute rejection were independent predictors for NODAT in LDLT recipients. These findings can help in screening for NODAT and applying early interventions.
Iron‐deficiency anemia in infancy and poorer cognitive inhibitory control at age 10 years
Authors: Algarín Cecilia , Nelson Charles A , Peirano Patricio , Westerlund Alissa , Reyes Sussanne , Lozoff Betsy
Published: March 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of iron‐deficiency anemia (IDA) in infancy on executive functioning at age 10 years, specifically inhibitory control on the Go/No‐Go task. We predicted that children who had IDA in infancy would show poorer inhibitory control.

Method

We assessed cognitive inhibitory control in 132 Chilean children (mean [SD] age 10y [1mo]): 69 children had IDA in infancy (45 males, 24 females) and 63 comparison children who did not have IDA (26 males, 37 females). Participants performed the Go/No‐Go task with event‐related potentials. Group differences in behavioral (accuracy, reaction time) and electrophysiological outcomes (N2 and P300 components) were analyzed using repeated‐measures analyses of variance. N2 and P300 are interpreted to reflect attention and resource allocation respectively.

Results

Relative to comparison participants, children who had IDA in infancy showed slower reaction time (mean [SE], 528.7ms [14.2] vs 485.0ms [15.0], 95% confidence interval [CI] for difference between groups 0.9–86.5); lower accuracy (95.4% [0.5] vs 96.9% [0.6], 95% CI −3.0 to −0.1); longer latency to N2 peak (378.9ms [4.9] vs 356.9ms [5.0], 95% CI 7.5–36.6); and smaller P300 amplitude (4.5μV [0.8] vs 7.6μV [0.9], 95% CI−5.5 to −0.5).

Interpretation

IDA in infancy was associated with slower reaction times and poorer inhibitory control 8 to 9 years after iron therapy. These findings are consistent with the long‐lasting effects of early IDA on myelination and/or prefrontal–striatal circuits where dopamine is the major neurotransmitter.
Non‐Visual Mate Choice Ability in a Cavefish (Poecilia mexicana) is not Mechanosensory
Authors: Rüschenbaum Sabrina , Schlupp Ingo
Published: March 2013

One of the most important decisions any female has to make is selecting a mate. In many animals, this involves a strong visual component, but in cave‐dwelling fishes, mate preferences have to be exercised in darkness. In a cave‐dwelling Poeciliid fish, the cave molly (Poecilia mexicana), visual mate choice is still possible because they have functional, albeit reduced eyes. In a previous laboratory study, it was documented that females prefer larger males in light and in darkness. In the present study, we investigated the role of the mechanosensory lateral line in this mate preference. We temporarily knocked out the lateral line using antibiotics. We found that even in the functional absence of the lateral line, females showed a clear preference for larger males, indicating that the lateral line is not crucial for mate choice. This points toward a strong role of chemical communication in cave molly mate choice.
Plant diversity, productivity and nutritive value change following abandonment of public pastures in Japan
Authors: Furusawa Saya , Yoshihara Yu , Sato Shusuke
Published: March 2013

We describe changes in plant diversity and productivity after the abandonment of public pastures in Japan. We surveyed the plant community and collected plant and soil samples from 22 pastures, including five pastures that had been abandoned up to 13 years earlier. Chemical analysis revealed forage nutritive values and soil nutrient levels. Overall, plant diversity did not change over time, but productivity and forage nutritive values both decreased significantly after pasture abandonment. These changes can be explained by (i) lower soil nitrate–nitrogen contents due to leaching and (ii) the replacement of sown grasses by native species. Our results suggest that it will become more difficult to restore pasture for grazing as the duration of abandonment increases and that reintroduction of livestock grazing in the abandoned pastures without re‐sowing exotic grasses could contribute to biodiversity conservation and maintaining productivity and nutritive values.
A placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, crossover trial on analgesic effect of nitrous oxide–oxygen inhalation
Authors: Grønbæk Anni Birgitte , Svensson Peter , Væth Michael , Hansen Ingelise , Poulsen Sven
Published: March 2013

Background

The sedative effect of nitrous oxide–oxygen (N2O/O2) inhalation is relatively well established. Less in known about its analgesic effect.

Aim

To determine the analgesic effect of N2O/O2 inhalation on pulp sensitivity and jaw muscle pressure pain threshold in children.

Design

A placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, crossover trial with random allocation to two sequences: atmospheric air at the first session and N2O/O2 at the second; or N2O/O2 at the first session and atmospheric air at the second. Measurements included reaction time, pulp pain sensitivity, jaw muscle pressure pain thresholds and a VAS score of overall discomfort from the pain tests.

Results

Fifty‐six children (12–15 years) completed the study. N2O/O2 inhalation increased reaction time (P < 0.001). Pulp pain sensitivity was reduced during N2O/O2 inhalation (P < 0.001), but no effect was found after adjustment for the increased reaction time. Pressure pain threshold on the jaw muscle was also reduced during N2O/O2 inhalation (P < 0.001), also after adjustment for reaction time (P < 0.005). An effect was still found 10 min after the mask had been removed (P = 0.03). No effect on VAS scores of discomfort from the tests could be found.

Conclusions

No analgesic effect of N2O/O2 inhalation on pulp pain sensitivity was found, whereas an increased pressure pain threshold of jaw muscles was found.
Psychological needs when diagnosed with testicular cancer: findings from a population‐based study with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Skoogh Johanna , Steineck Gunnar , Johansson Boo , Wilderäng Ulrica , Stierner Ulrika ,   SWENOTECA
Published: March 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

There are few large‐scale follow‐up studies regarding psychological reactions among men diagnosed with testicular cancer; therefore, our knowledge is sparse about the psychological consequences of being diagnosed with and treated for testicular cancer. Moreover, we know little about what kind of psychological support the men would prefer and benefit from.

Our study shows that most patients with testicular cancer, regardless of the seriousness of the disease, experience a psychological crisis at diagnosis. Furthermore, we found that most men wish that psychological support, including information about stress and crises reactions and psychological counselling, was offered at diagnosis. Our study highlights the need not only to provide patients with testicular cancer with the best physical treatment but also to take into account the psychological consequences of being diagnosed and offer the men psychological support.

Objective

To investigate the psychological needs of patients diagnosed with testicular cancer.

Patients and Methods

We identified 1192 eligible men diagnosed with non‐seminomatous testicular cancer, treated according to the bi‐national cancer‐care programmes SWENOTECA I–IV between 1981 and 2004.

Using a study‐specific questionnaire we asked the survivors if they had experienced some kind of crisis attributable to their cancer diagnosis. We also asked if they were and, if not, if they wish they had been offered information about crisis and stress reactions and professional counselling.

Results

We obtained information from 974/1192 (82%) testicular cancer survivors diagnosed at a mean of 11 years before follow‐up.

Sixty‐three percent reported that they had experienced a crisis owing to their diagnosis. For most men (76%) the crisis was at its worst at the time of diagnosis and treatment.

Between 1981 and 2004, 145 men (15%) reported that they received information about common stress and crisis reactions and 348 (36%) reported that they were offered counselling.

Of the men not informed about stress and crisis reactions and not offered counselling, 353/514 (69%) and 251/403 (62%), respectively, wish they had been. The percentage who reported that they wish that they had been informed or offered counselling did not differ significantly depending on civil status, age at diagnosis or stage of disease.

Conclusions

The vast majority of Swedish testicular cancer survivors reported that they experienced a crisis because of their cancer diagnosis.

Moreover, regardless of stage of disease, most men reported a need for psychological support at the time of diagnosis and treatment that was not satisfactorily met by the healthcare provision.
Quantitative measurement of the androgen receptor in prepuces of boys with and without hypospadias
Authors: Pichler Renate , Djedovic Gabriel , Klocker Helmut , Heidegger Isabel , Strasak Alexander , Loidl Wolfgang , Bektic Jasmin , Skradski Viktor , Horninger Wolfgang , Oswald Josef
Published: March 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Despite diverse anatomical and histological trials in humans and animal models, the aetiology of hypospadias remains unknown and currently there is no clear molecular explanation about the emergence of this disease; however, genetic, endocrine and environmental mechanisms have been suggested.

The aim of the present study was to quantify and compare the androgen receptor (AR; mRNA and protein) levels in 40 prepuces of boys with and without hypospadias using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western Blot and standardised, automated immunohistochemistry. AR mRNA (P = 0.013) and AR protein (P = 0.014) was significantly elevated in the prepuces of boys with hypospadias compared with boys without hypospadias. Altogether our data indicate that elevated AR mRNA and protein levels can be considered as a biochemical response of an AR signalling defect as an identified cause in boys with hypospadias. Additionally, nuclear staining intensity for AR‐protein in specimens of boys with hypospadias was higher than in boys with phimosis.

Objective

To address the role of the androgen receptor (AR) on mRNA and protein levels in prepuces of boys with and without hypospadias.

Patients and Methods

Data from 40 foreskin specimens of consecutive circumcised boys (20 with vs 20 without hypospadias) were enrolled in this prospective study. After surgery, samples were fixed in formaldehyde and frozen in liquid nitrogen. Total RNA was isolated from frozen tissue and transcribed to complementary DNA.

The amount of AR mRNA was measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western Blot and standardised, automated immunohistochemistry were used to assess AR protein levels.

Results

The mean age at time of surgery was 61.8 and 30.9 months in boys without and with hypospadias, respectively.

There was penile, coronal and sine hypospadias in seven (35%), nine (45%), and four (20%) boys, respectively.

AR mRNA was significantly elevated in the prepuces of boys with hypospadias compared with boys without hypospadias, at a mean (sd) of 28.33 (5.39) vs 15.31 (1.85) (P = 0.013).

Furthermore, the amount of AR protein was higher in boys with, compared with boys without hypospadias, at a mean (sd) of 133.25 (6.17) vs 100 (4.45) (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Different AR mRNA expression and protein levels seem to be an indication of an AR signalling defect as a cause in boys with hypospadias.

Decreased AR DNA binding and functional capability may result in a compensatory up‐regulation of both AR mRNA and protein.

Further studies are necessary to perform structural analysis of the AR and to corroborate these preliminary findings.
Laparoendoscopic single‐site nephroureterectomy for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma: outcomes of an international multi‐institutional study of 101 patients
Authors: Park Sung Yul , Rha Koon Ho , Autorino Riccardo , Derweesh Ithaar , Liastikos Evangelos , Tsai Yao Chou , Seo Ill Young , Nagele Ugo , Abdel‐Karim Aly M. , Herrmann Thomas , Han Deok Hyun , Rais‐Bahrami Soroush , Lee Seung Wook , Kim Kyu Shik , Fornara Paolo , Kallidonis Panagiotis , Springer Christopher , Élsalmy Salah , Chueh Shih‐Chieh Jeff , Ho Chen‐Hsun , Panumatrassamee Kamol , Kopp Ryan , Stolzenburg Jens‐Uwe , Richstone Lee , Chung Jae Hoon , Shin Tae Young , Greco Francesco , Kaouk Jihad H.
Published: March 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

LESS‐NU may be an alternative minimally‐invasive treatment option for patients eligible to undergo laparoscopic surgery for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma.

The true benefits of LESS‐NU remain to be determined and require randomized control trials in the future. Despite encouraging early findings, clinical trials still are warranted before this procedure is adopted widely, and longer follow‐up is needed to determine its oncological durability.

Objective

To report a large multi‐institutional series of laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) nephroureterectomy (NU).

Materials and Methods

Data on all cases of LESS‐NU performed between 2008 and 2012 at 15 institutions were retrospectively gathered.

The main demographic data and perioperative outcomes were analysed.

Results

The study included 101 patients whose mean (sd) age was 66.4 (9.9) years and mean (sd) body mass index was 24.8 (4) kg/m2, and of whom 29.7% had undergone previous abdominal/pelvic surgery.

The mean (sd) operating time was 221.4 (73.7) min, estimated blood loss 231.7 (348.0) mL.

A robot‐assisted LESS technique was applied in 25.7% of cases. An extra trocar was inserted in 28.7% of cases to complete the procedure. Conversion to open surgery was necessary in three cases (3.0%). There was no bladder cuff excision in 20.8% of cases, and excision was carried out using a variety of techniques in the remaining cases.

Six intra‐operative complications occurred (5.9%). The mean (sd) length of hospital stay was 6.3 (3.5) days. The overall postoperative complication rate was 10.0%, and most of the complications were low grade (Clavien grades 1 and 2).

The mean tumour size was 3.1 (1.9) cm. Pathological staging was pTis in two patients, pTa in 12 patients, pT1 in 42 patients, pT2 in 20 patients, pT3 in 23 patients and pT4 in two patients. Pathological grade was high in 71 and low in 30 patients.

At a mean follow‐up of 14 months, six patients (5.9%) had died. Disease recurrence (including distant and bladder recurrence) was detected in 22.8% of patients, with a mean time to recurrence of 11.5 months.

Conclusions

This study reports the largest multi‐institutional experience of LESS‐NU to date.

Peri‐operative outcomes mirror those of published standard laparoscopy series.

Despite encouraging early findings, longer follow‐up is needed to determine the oncological efficacy of the procedure.
Extensive and Intensive Margins of Labour Supply: Work and Working Hours in the US, the UK and France*
Authors: Blundell Richard , Bozio Antoine , Laroque Guy
Published: March 2013

This paper provides a new analysis of the main stylised facts underlying the evolution of labour supply at the extensive and intensive margins in three countries: the United States, the United Kingdom and France. We propose a definition of the extensive and intensive margins corresponding respectively to the employment rate and to hours when employed. This definition is robust to the choice of the reference period and we develop a new statistical decomposition that provides bounds on changes at these margins. We focus on longer‐run labour supply changes over the period 1977 to 2007 and abstract from the shorter‐run impact of recessions. Examining secular changes over this period, we show that both margins matter in explaining changes in total hours. We then provide a detailed analysis across countries and across time by demographic type. Given the large systematic differences we uncover in the importance of these margins by age and gender, it is unlikely that a single explanation will suffice to account for the macroeconomic evolutions in the three countries.
Shifting out of neutral on parental leave: Making fathers' involvement explicit
Authors: Miller Tina
Published: March 2013

Professor Tina Miller argues that if policymakers in the UK want to encourage fathers to take a greater role in childcare in the home, they must designate some parental leave as ‘father's only’.
Anaemia on Admission is Associated with More Severe Intracerebral Haemorrhage and Worse Outcomes
Authors: Bussière Miguel , Gupta Meera , Sharma Mukul , Dowlatshahi Dar , Fang Jiming , Dhar Rajat
Published: March 2013

Background

Lower haemoglobin levels may impair cerebral oxygen delivery and threaten tissue viability in the setting of acute brain injury. Few studies have examined the association between haemoglobin levels and outcomes after spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage.

Aims

We evaluated whether anaemia on admission was associated with greater intracerebral haemorrhage severity and worse outcome.

Methods

Consecutive patients with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage were analyzed from the Registry of the Canadian Stroke Network. Admission haemoglobin was related to stroke severity (using the Canadian Neurological Scale), modified Rankin score at discharge, and one-year mortality. Adjustment was made for potential confounders including age, gender, medical history, warfarin use, glucose, creatinine, blood pressure, and intraventricular haemorrhage.

Results

Two thousand four hundred six patients with intracerebral haemorrhage were studied of whom 23% had anaemia (haemoglobin <120 g/l) on admission, including 4% with haemoglobin <100 g/l. Patients with anaemia were more likely to have severe neurological deficits at presentation [haemoglobin ≤100 g/l, adjusted odds ratio 4·04 (95% confidence interval 2·39, 6·84); haemoglobin 101–120 g/l, adjusted odds ratio 1·93 (95% confidence interval 1·43, 2·59), both P < 0·0001]. In nonanticoagulated patients, severe anaemia was also associated with poor outcome (modified Rankin score 4–6) at discharge [haemoglobin ≤100 g/l, adjusted odds ratio 2·42 (95% confidence interval 1·07–5·47), P= 0·034] and increased mortality at one-year [haemoglobin ≤100 g/l, adjusted hazard ratio 1·73 (95% confidence interval 1·22–2·45), P = 0·002].

Conclusions

Anaemia on admission is associated with greater intracerebral haemorrhage severity and worse outcomes. The utility of transfusion remains unclear in this setting.