bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Factors affecting marketing channel choice decisions of smallholder Citrus growers
Authors: Siddique Muhammad Imran , Garnevska Elena , Marr Norman Edward 
Published: July 2018

PurposeDespite the fact that citrus industry is growing in Pakistan where production is dominated by small-scale citrus growers, no research has been done to evaluate and analyse the marketing channel choice decision-making process of these citrus growers. The purpose of this paper is to review the existing factors affecting decision making of small-size citrus growers in citrus supply chain in Pakistan and also measures and analyses the factors that affect the marketing channel decisions of these small size growers.Design/methodology/approachA multivariate decision analysis technique, conjoint analysis, was used to analyse and evaluate the major factors affecting marketing channel choice decisions of small-size citrus growers.FindingsIt was concluded that among nine very important factors, six factors played a major role in the marketing channel choice decision making. Only three factors namely, “price”, “time of complete fruit picking” and “number of fruit pickings” were considered highly important factors and reflected that citrus growers not only want to secure his payments but also to save their orchards for next season(s).Research limitations/implicationsThe research would provide valuable information about citrus grower’s marketing decision-making process and thus would contribute to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of citrus industry in Pakistan.Originality/valueThis analysis would suggest them to make rational decisions and help choosing them the most appropriate combination of different levels of different factors which would increase their profits. This study identifies the most relevant factors and their levels which citrus growers and pre-harvest contractors preferred in citrus marketing channel choice decision making, thus, server as a guideline for the buyer’s to deal with them accordingly. This would improve the efficiency and reduce the transaction cost along the citrus supply chain in Pakistan.
A parametric test evaluating smallholder farmers’ training needs in Uganda
Authors: Kataike Joanita , Modekurti Durga Prasad Venkata , Butali Eric , Magumba David , Mugenyi Andrew Ronnie , Aine-Omucunguzi Adalbert , Gellynck Xavier 
Published: July 2018

PurposeEffective rural agribusiness development requires dedicated training programmes therefore, this paper is an attempt to investigate smallholder farmers’ TNs in the dairy agribusiness sector. The purpose of this paper is to study a bigger research project of the dairy value chain in agribusiness framework in the Rwenzori region.Design/methodology/approachA sample size of 100 dairy farmers were randomly selected from two Districts in the Rwenzori region. The descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) provided a basis for discussion. Furthermore, parametric Pearson coefficient test was conducted to examine the smallholder farmers’ TNs and assess its association with selected socio-demographic characteristics of the dairy farmers.FindingsThe analysis indicated that dairy farmers expressed the need for a training program. Most frequently requested topics include: fodder cultivation, quality and safe milk handling, milk marketing, calf feeding and rearing, animal nutrition and financial literacy out of 12 topics. The least desired TNs was record keeping.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings contribute to the understanding of dairy farmers’ TNs.Practical implicationsThe identified 12 key training intervention areas for the dairy farmers inform policymakers Dairy Development Authority and other development bodies in the Rwenzori region to address the challenges and improve smallholder dairy farming practices.Originality/valueThe study applies a synthesis review to identify theoretically acceptable variables that measure smallholder farmers’ TNs in the dairy agribusiness. The paper also shares the empirical evidence of a pioneering attempt to identify smallholder dairy farmers’ TNs in Uganda.
Does contract farming improve profits and food safety? Evidence from tomato cultivation in Nepal
Authors: Kumar Anjani , Roy Devesh , Tripathi Gaurav , Joshi P.K. , Adhikari Rajendra P. 
Published: July 2018

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to quantify the benefits of contract farming (CF) on farmers’ income and adoption of food safety measures (FSMs) at the farm level. The paper also investigates the determinants of participation in CF.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a survey of 600 tomato farmers from Nepal. Descriptive statistics, regression analysis (using instrumental variable) and propensity score matching have been used to accomplish the objectives of the study.FindingsThe study found that the CF ensures higher returns to farmers as well as higher adoption of FSMs at the farm level. The contract farmers earned about 38 per cent higher net returns and had 38 per cent higher adoption of FSM as compared to independent farmers. Caste, occupation, farm size and cropping intensity significantly affected farmers’ participation in CF.Research limitations/implicationsThe analysis based on cross-section data has limitations to consider unobserved farmer-level individual heterogeneity.Originality/valueThis study will provide an empirical base to promote CF in Nepal. The study will also contribute to bridge the gap in literature on the drivers of CF and its impact on smallholders’ income and compliance with FSM in Nepal.
Polarization of universities in the Central Federal District of Russia under reform
Authors: Abankina Irina , Filatova Liudmila , Nikolayenko Elena 
Published: July 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the changes in higher education under the new configuration of resources based on the income structure of universities located in the Central Federal District (CFD). Particular focus is given to the changes in the structure of public financing of higher education, considering the explicit priorities of increasing teaching staff salaries and promoting research. The study also assesses regional differentiation in financial resources for the maintenance of university property and the accumulation of funds from extra-budgetary sources.

Design/methodology/approach
Using statistical and economic analysis methods, the research reveals the main trends of structural changes in public funding of higher education in Russia as a whole, and the regional peculiarities of financial support in the universities of the CFD.

Findings
The results of this investigation of universities in the CFD point to inertia in the development of universities in the regions, and problems transitioning to new business models. Groups of universities in the region often lobby for the “previous rules of the game.” The results evidence a change in financial support from different income sources and in cost structures at the university level. These are the result of higher education reform and university support programs aimed at enhancing the academic and research capacity of the leading Russian universities and developing a competitive national education system.

Originality/value
A costs optimization policy has led to polarization of universities and reduced development opportunities for a significant proportion of regional universities. In order to maintain their properties in good condition, they have to make active efforts to seek non-budgetary funding sources against a fall in effective demand from the population.
Stepping stones to sexual murder: the role of developmental factors in the etiology of sexual homicide
Authors: Beauregard Eric , DeLisi Matt 
Published: July 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of a variety of developmental factors on sexual homicide offenders (SHOs), while taking into account other components of sexual homicide theoretical models.

Design/methodology/approach
A series of logistic regression models are performed using a total of 616 incarcerated adult male sexual offenders from Canada to distinguish between three groups of sexual offenders, SHOs, violent non-homicidal sex offenders (NHSOs) and NHSOs.

Findings
Results indicate that contrary to theoretical models, experiences of victimization are not central to the development of SHOs. Instead, it is the adoption of various problematic behaviors in childhood that appear as most important in the etiology of this particular type of sexual crime. This suggests that the various existing theoretical models of sexual homicide need to be revised and/or tested with additional empirical data.

Originality/value
This is the first study to look at developmental factors using two control groups of NHSOs and violent NHSOs.
UK FCA adopts changes to rules governing availability of information for IPOs
Authors: Bergman Mark S. , Satory John J. , Martos Sofia D. 
Published: July 2018

Purpose
This paper aims to summarize new disclosure and procedural rules and related guidance for initial public offerings in the UK that will become effective on July 1, 2018.

Design/methodology/approach
This study summarizes new disclosure and procedural rules and related guidance published by the Financial Conduct Authority intended to improve the quality and timeliness of key information made available to investors in advance of an initial public offering (IPO) in the UK, in particular the timing of the publication of IPO research by connected and unconnected analysts.

Findings
While it remains to be determined whether the new process will provide investors with more time to digest information about the issuer and its business and increase the likelihood that investors will place greater emphasis on the prospectus and less on research reports of connected analysts, at the very least, the publication of the prospectus or a registration document, rather than the intention to float announcement as is currently the case, will provide the first public confirmation that an IPO is imminent.

Originality/value
This study provides practical guidance from experienced securities and financial services lawyers.
Chronological clinicopathological characterization of rapidly progressive alopecia areata resistant to multiple i.v. corticosteroid pulse therapies: An implication for improving the efficacy
Authors: Fukuyama Masahiro , Sato Yohei , Kinoshita‐Ise Misaki , Yamazaki Yoshimi , Ohyama Manabu 
Published: July 2018

AbstractIntravenous corticosteroid pulse therapy (pulse therapy) has been reported to be effective for rapidly progressive alopecia areata (RP‐AA). Mostly, a single 3‐day administration of corticosteroid (methylprednisolone 500 mg/day) has been performed in Japan; however, to what extent additional administrations improve the outcome has not been fully elucidated. To assess the advantage of repeating the pulse therapy to RP‐AA cases refractory to the initial intervention, retrospective clinicopathological analysis was performed. Detailed chronological analysis was conducted in eight cases (one man and seven women; average age, 38.3 ± 10.4 years) demonstrating total scalp hair loss 3 months after the first pulse therapy and treated with additional rounds of the pulse therapy. All cases manifested total hair loss, scalp edema, itch or pain on the scalp after the initial intervention. Histopathological analyses of affected lesions prior to additional pulse therapies revealed persisting dense perifollicular lymphocytic inflammation in all cases. Interestingly, such inflammatory change tended to be severer when compared with previously reported pulse therapy good responders. Extra pulse therapy resulted in partial regrowth of terminal hairs in three out of eight cases, but all of them experienced relapse in the long run. The literature review also suggested limited efficacy of repeating pulse therapy to severe AA cases. These findings suggested that the efficacy of currently conducted repetitive pulse therapy is limited in RP‐AA cases with extensive perifollicular inflammation and resistant to the initial pulse therapy. Modulation of the dose and the interval of intervention, in combination with alternative approaches, may be required to achieve a successful outcome.
Disentangling the processes driving plant assemblages in mountain grasslands across spatial scales and environmental gradients
Authors: Scherrer Daniel , Mod Heidi K. , Pottier Julien , Litsios‐Dubuis Anne , Pellissier Loïc , Vittoz Pascal , Götzenberger Lars , Zobel Martin , Guisan Antoine 
Published: July 2018

Abstract

Habitat filtering and limiting similarity are well‐documented ecological assembly processes that hierarchically filter species across spatial scales, from a regional pool to local assemblages. However, information on the effects of fine‐scale spatial partitioning of species, working as an additional mechanism of coexistence, on community patterns is much scarcer.

In this study, we quantified the importance of fine‐scale spatial partitioning, relative to habitat filtering and limiting similarity in structuring grassland communities in the western Swiss Alps. To do so, 298 vegetation plots (2 m × 2 m) each with five nested subplots (20 cm × 20 cm) were used for trait‐based assembly tests (i.e., comparisons with several alternative null expectations), examining the observed plot and subplot level α‐diversity (indicating habitat filtering and limiting similarity) and the among‐subplot β‐diversity of traits (indicating fine‐scale spatial partitioning). We further assessed variations in the detected signatures of these assembly processes along a set of environmental gradients.

We found habitat filtering was the dominating assembly process at the plot level with diminished effect at the subplot level, whereas limiting similarity prevailed at the subplot level with weaker average effect at the plot level. Plot‐level limiting similarity was positively correlated with fine‐scale partitioning, suggesting that the trait divergence resulted from a combination of competitive exclusion between functionally similar species and environmental micro‐heterogeneities. Overall, signatures of assembly processes only marginally changed along environmental gradients, but the observed trends were more prominent at the plot than at the subplot scale.

Synthesis. Our study emphasises the importance of considering multiple assembly processes and traits simultaneously across spatial scales and environmental gradients to understand the complex drivers of plant community composition.
Legacy effects of herbivory enhance performance and resistance of progeny plants
Authors: Kafle Dinesh , Wurst Susanne 
Published: July 2018

Abstract

Herbivory‐induced changes in plant resistance and tolerance traits can mediate the interaction between spatially and temporally separated above‐ and below‐ground herbivores. However, it is unknown how long the impact of transient herbivory events last or if legacy effects can be detected systemically in the plant and across plant generations.

Here, we studied the impact of transient above‐ground herbivory by the specialist caterpillar Manduca sexta on the plant traits of wild tobacco Nicotiana attenuata and the consequences for below‐ground root‐knot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita in short‐term, long‐term, and transgenerational experiments.

In the short‐ and long‐term experiments, above‐ and below‐ground herbivory had significant, albeit independent, impacts on key plant traits such as plant biomass, nutrient content, and secondary metabolites. In addition, herbivory influenced fitness parameters such as seed yield and quality. In the long‐term and transgenerational experiments, transient above‐ground herbivory had facilitating effects on nematodes, irrespective of any treatments of the parental plants. We found evidence for transgenerational legacy effects of both above‐ and below‐ground herbivory on the resistance of progeny plants against above‐ground herbivores. Additionally, below‐ground herbivory in the parental generation increased the root biomass of progeny plants.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that herbivory may have a long‐term impact on plant fitness by improving the performance of progeny plants challenged by above‐ and below‐ground herbivory.
A retrospective analysis of surgical resection of large ear keloids
Authors: Lyu Anqi , Xu Erwei , Wang Qiying 
Published: July 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate surgical methods for the removal of larger ear keloids.MethodsTwo different surgical techniques were used: Method A, tumour excision followed by in situ scar flap repair; and Method B, wedge resection of an auricular lesion followed by primary closure or local flap repair. After the treatment, patients received postoperative, local radiotherapy. Follow‐up was for 1–3 years (median 28.9 months).ResultsTwenty patients with 35 large ear keloids were reviewed. In Method A, six ears were cured, three ears improved, five ears relapsed after 1 year and one ear recurred within 1 year. In Method B, 17 ears were cured, two ears improved and one ear recurred within 1 year.ConclusionKeloid scars can be effectively treated with a combination of radiotherapy and surgical excision.
Vulvo‐vaginal lichen planus: A focussed review for the clinician
Authors: Dubey Ritika , Fischer Gayle 
Published: July 2018

AbstractVulvo‐vaginal lichen planus is a condition which imposes a significant burden of symptoms and sequale. There is a paucity of knowledge and evidenced‐based management with significant diagnostic delay prior to appropriate treatment being common. There remains great variability in clinician practice in the context of limited knowledge. This clinical review presents current evidence on the clinicopathological features, practical assessment and management options. Learning points include characterization of this chronic, burdensome clinical entity that has no standardized diagnostic or management protocols. We provide practical clinical conclusions based on current knowledge and identify areas for future research to improve patient outcomes.
Impact of blood transfusion on outcomes following resection for colorectal liver metastases in the modern era
Authors: Pathak Samir , Al‐Duwaisan Abdullah , Khoyratty Fadil , Lodge J. Peter A. , Toogood Giles J. , Salib Emad , Prasad K. Raj , Miskovic Danilo 
Published: July 2018

BackgroundEvidence suggests that perioperative blood loss and blood transfusions are associated with poorer long‐term outcomes in patients undergoing other oncological surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the long‐term outcomes of patients requiring a blood transfusion post‐hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).MethodsThis is a retrospective review from 2005 to 2012. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) were assessed using Kaplan–Meier curves. Red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) and other clinic‐pathological parameters were handled as covariates for Cox regression analysis.ResultsSix hundred and ninety patients were included. Median follow‐up was 33 months. Sixty‐four (9.3%) patients required a perioperative RBCT. RBCT was a predictor for decreased OS (median 41 versus 49 months, P = 0.04). However, on multivariate regression analyses preoperative chemotherapy, post‐operative complications and Clinical Risk Score were independently associated with reduced OS, though RBCT was not. There was no association between RBCT and RFS (median 15 versus 17 months, P = 0.28).ConclusionsRBCT is not independently associated with a poorer OS.
A STAT4 variant increases liver fibrosis risk in Caucasian patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: El Sharkawy R. , Thabet K. , Lampertico P. , Petta S. , Mangia A. , Berg T. , Metwally M. , Bayoumi A. , Boonstra A. , Brouwer W. P. , Smedile A. , Abate M. L. , Loglio A. , Douglas M. W. , Khan A. , Santoro R. , Fischer J. , Leeming D. J. , Liddle C. , George J. , Eslam M. 
Published: July 2018

SummaryBackgroundHost genetic modifiers of the natural history of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remain poorly understood. Recently, a genome‐wide association study (GWAS)‐identified polymorphism in the STAT4 gene that contributes to the risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was shown to be associated with the full spectrum of hepatitis B virus (HBV) outcomes in Asian patients. However, the functional mechanisms for this effect are unknown and the role of the variant in modulating HBV disease in Caucasians has not been investigated.AimsTo determine whether STAT4 genetic variation is associated with liver injury in Caucasian patients with CHB and to investigate potential mechanisms mediating this effect.MethodsSTAT4 rs7574865 was genotyped in 1085 subjects (830 with CHB and 255 healthy controls). STAT4 expression in liver, PBMCs and NK cells, STAT4 phosphorylation and secretion of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) according to STAT4 genetic variation was examined.ResultsSTAT4 rs7574865 genotype was independently associated with hepatic inflammation (OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.07‐2.06, P = 0.02) and advanced fibrosis (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.19‐2.83, P = 0.006). The minor allele frequency of rs7574865 was significantly lower than that in healthy controls. rs7574865 GG risk carriers expressed lower levels of STAT4 in liver, PBMCs and in NK cells, while NK cells from patients with the risk genotype had impaired STAT4 phosphorylation following stimulation with IL‐12/IL‐18 and a reduction in secretion of IFN‐γ.ConclusionGenetic susceptibility to HBV persistence, hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in Caucasians associates with STAT4 rs7574865 variant. Downstream effects on NK cell function through STAT4 phosphorylation‐dependent IFN‐γ production likely contribute to these effects.
Strike‐slip reactivation of segmented normal faults: Implications for basin structure and fluid flow
Authors: Rotevatn Atle , Peacock David C. P. 
Published: July 2018

AbstractReverse reactivation of normal faults, also termed “inversion”, has been extensively studied, whereas little is known about the strike‐slip reactivation of normal faults. At the same time, recognizing strike‐slip reactivation of normal faults in sedimentary basins is critical, as it may alter and impact basin physiography, accommodation and sediment supply and dispersal. Motivated by this, we present a study of a reactivated normal fault zone in the Liassic limestones and shales of Somerset, UK, to elucidate the effects of strike‐slip reactivation of normal faults, and the inherent deformation of relay zones that separate the original normal fault segments. The fault zone, initially extensional, exhibits a series of relay zones between right‐stepping segments, with the steps between the segments having subsequently become contractional due to sinistral strike‐slip movement. The relay zones have therefore been steepened and are cut by a series of connecting faults with reverse and strike‐slip components. The studied fault zone, and comparison with larger‐scale natural examples, leads us to conclude that the relays turned contractional steps are associated with (a) complex fault and fracture networks that accommodate shortening, (b) anomalously high numbers of fractures and faults, (c) layer‐parallel slip and (d) folding and uplift. Comparison with published statistics from global relay zones shows that whereas the reactivated relay zones feature aspect ratios similar to those of unreactivated relay zones, bed dips within reactivated relay zones are significantly steeper than unreactivated relay zones. Given the potential of reactivated relay zones to form areas of local uplift, they may affect basin structure and may also form potential traps for hydrocarbon or other fluids. The elevated faulting and fracturing, on the other hand, means reactivated relays are also likely loci for enhanced up‐fault flow.