21436 research outputs found
Sort by
Exploring women’s intentions to seek medicinal cannabis prescriptions in New Zealand using the theory of planned behaviour
Get PDFBackground: Women are an emerging demographic for legal medicinal cannabis (MC) in New Zealand and overseas, yet their information sources and prescription pathways remain underexplored. This study examines how women learn about MC and the factors influencing their prescription decisions, including motivations tied to prior cannabis experience.
Methods: Interviews with 23 women who sought MC prescriptions in the last 12 months. The Theory of Planned Behaviour guided the deductive thematic analysis to explore the factors influencing their intention to seek MC prescriptions.
Results: Participants were primarily motivated by positive online testimonies from other women MC consumers. Unregulated forums, social media, and cannabis clinics websites provided accessible channels for MC information, supporting self-guided treatment and perceptions of prescription pathways (private cannabis clinics vs. regular physicians). Past negative experiences with medical professionals influenced these choices. While some women feared stigma and judgement, others felt empowered to prioritise their needs and challenge gendered views of cannabis.
Conclusion: The TPB model showed that positive beliefs about MC, accessible prescriptions, and support encouraged legal MC use, while stigma and negative physician interactions discouraged it. Digital platforms enabled self-guided treatment, however, limit reliable information. Credible online resources are needed to support women’s growing interest in MC.fals
Efficacy of oral remdesivir in treating feline infectious peritonitis: a prospective observational study of 29 cats
Get PDFObjectives: The primary aim of this prospective observational study was to document clinical progression, survival, remission and relapse in New Zealand cats with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) that were treated with compounded oral remdesivir with or without initial parenteral remdesivir therapy. The secondary aims were to determine the optimal monitoring protocols and report the adverse effects of treatment and complications associated with FIP.
Methods: A total of 29 client-owned cats with a clinical diagnosis of FIP were prospectively recruited. Cats were administered oral remdesivir (30 mg/kg q24h), rounded up to the nearest capsule size as the sole treatment, or after initial parenteral remdesivir (15–30 mg/kg q24h). Rechecks were recommended at weeks 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 during treatment, and at 2 and 12 weeks after treatment. A full physical examination (including neurological and ophthalmic examination) and point-of-care ultrasound were performed at each recheck. A complete blood count and biochemistry panel were performed at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 24. Molnupiravir was offered as a rescue therapy for cats that relapsed.
Results: In total, 25 (86%) cats entered remission and survived beyond 6 months (range 6–27). A total of 22 (75%) cats achieved remission within 84 days while receiving oral remdesivir. Three cats received subsequent molnupiravir rescue therapy to achieve remission. Five cats (20%) experienced relapse: four with non-effusive disease and one with effusive disease. Notably, 4/8 (50%) non-effusive cases relapsed, compared with only 1/20 (5%) with effusive disease.
Conclusions and relevance: This study demonstrates that oral remdesivir at a dose rate of 30 mg/kg q24h is an effective treatment for effusive FIP. The survival rate in non-effusive cats was significantly lower; therefore, an increased dose rate or frequency of administration should be considered in these cats. Oral remdesivir is a viable antiviral option where GS-441524 is unavailable.fals
Secretion of inflammatory mediators by human intestinal epithelial cells incubated with gastric digesta of emulsion gels containing capsaicinoids: Implication on gastric irritation
Get PDFAn in vitro method was developed to test gastric irritation by quantifying the secretion of interleukin-8 (IL-8) by human intestinal epithelial cells Caco-2 after incubation with gastric digesta of emulsion gels containing capsaicinoids (CAP) obtained from simulated dynamic gastric digestion. The emulsion gel structure was modified using different emulsifiers: whey proteins versus Tween 80. Results indicate that both the CAP and Tween 80 molecules were proinflammatory to Caco-2 cells and stimulated cells to produce IL-8. Gastric digesta from CAP-loaded Tween 80 emulsion gel stimulated significantly more IL-8 production than CAP-loaded whey protein emulsion gel, possibly because of the presence of Tween 80 and also, because more CAP molecules were released from Tween 80 emulsion gel during gastric digestion. Tween 80 emulsion gel had a loose structure; it was easily broken down into smaller pieces and had large amounts of oil droplet liberation from the protein matrix, which would promote the release of CAP molecules, leading to higher IL-8 production. On the other hand, whey-protein-coated oil droplets had strong connections with surrounding protein matrix and were well protected during gastric digestion; the release of CAP molecules was much less. This study suggests that by modifying the structure of the foods, the gastric digestion behaviour can be modified, which would affect the release behaviour of CAP molecules and influence gastric irritation / inflammation.fals
Weaned lambs from different litter size submitted to contrasting feeding systems on tropical pastures
Get PDFThe objective of this work was to evaluate the performance and ingestive behavior of singleton and twin lambs after weaning under different feeding systems on tropical pasture. Studies were carried out over three years with castrated and weaned males of Texel x Corriedale lambs. In the first year, the treatments were: grass; grass and supplementation with concentrate (1.5% or 2.5% of live weight); grass and controlled legume grazing. In the second and third years, the treatments were: either grass or legume; mixed, this is, contiguous area of both grass and legume. On tropical pasture system, twin lambs fed with high levels of concentrate can gain more live weight than singletons, showing a compensatory growth and reaching the singletons live weight. Sheep litter size does not affect weaned lambs’ grazing behaviour under different feeding systems on tropical grassland. The use of concentrate supplementation changes lambs’ ingestive behavior by reducing grazing time and increasing idling time. Pigeon pea, as a monoculture or associated with grass, can be an important source of nutrients for lambs; however, it is not sufficient to ensure the same performance of twin and singleton lambs.fals
Understanding Consumer Acceptability and Sensory Drivers of Liking in Montepulciano Wines from Brazil and Beyond
Get PDFBrazil is an important wine producer in Latin America, with the Santa Catarina (SC) region gaining prominence for producing high-quality wines. Among new red varieties cultivated in SC, Montepulciano has recently gained attention. Despite the growing interest in Montepulciano wines in Brazil, no studies have investigated Brazilian consumer perceptions of this varietal. This gap underscores the need for research to better understand acceptance for this emerging varietal in Brazil. This study aimed (i) to advance consumer insights of Montepulciano wines by evaluating the acceptability of Montepulciano wines from Brazil and those from other countries, and (ii) to identify the key attributes influencing acceptance. Participants (n = 103) evaluated six national and international wines for overall liking and sensory characteristics using the check-all-that-apply technique. The drivers of liking for aroma were floral and red/dark berries, whereas leather and alcohol penalized liking. In-mouth, sweetness, red/dark berries, and soft tannins drove liking, whereas astringent, sour, and bitter impacted liking negatively. Among the Brazilian wines, differences were perceived to be more pronounced for aroma than flavor and mouthfeel. The findings highlight the market potential of Brazilian Montepulciano wines, with liking comparable to some Italian and Chilean counterparts. Understanding consumer sensory responses to these wines is crucial to support production strategies that align with market demands.fals
First Detection and Genetic Characterization of Felis catus Papillomavirus Type 11, the First Treisetapapillomavirus Type to Infect Domestic Cats
Get PDFDomestic cats are currently recognized to be infected by 10 different Felis catus papillomavirus (FcaPV) types that are classified into three genera. Examination of a skin sample from a cat with presumptive allergic dermatitis revealed clusters of large amphophilic intracytoplasmic bodies within epidermal cells. A 312 bp section of DNA from a novel PV type was amplified from the sample, while the entire 7569 bp genome was amplified and sequenced from a skin swab. The novel PV, which was designated FcaPV11, was predicted to contain coding regions for five early proteins and two late ones. Phylogenetic analysis of the L1 gene sequence showed FcaPV11 clusters with members of the Treisetapapillomavirus genus and shares less than 64% similarity with any of the previously fully sequenced FcaPV types. FcaPV11 DNA was not detected in a series of neoplastic and non-neoplastic skin samples from an additional 30 cats. These results show, for the first time, that cats can be infected by members of the Treisetapapillomavirus genus and suggest PVs in this genus may have co-evolved with a common Carnivora ancestor. While FcaPV11 was considered unlikely to have caused skin lesions in this cat, the prominent PV-induced cell changes indicate the PV can influence cell regulation. This suggests FcaPV11 may have the potential to cause skin disease in cats.fals
Nurtured : postpartum care : an exegesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a Master of Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand. EMBARGOED until 12th March 2028
No full textEmbargoed until 12th March 2028A range of challenges accompanies childbirth. Physical pain, discomfort, emotional uncertainty, and significant life changes are inevitable among these. A number of products exist to meet the varying needs of postpartum care. Few, however, fully address the broad spectrum of challenges faced by women during this vulnerable period. Prioritising comfort and support while addressing individual needs will ultimately enhance the postpartum experience for new mothers. This research focused on the design of innovative, empathetic, versatile, and safe underwear in the immediate postpartum period when lochia (postpartum discharge) and pain are experienced. Participants in semi-structured qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys emphasised the need for comfort, breathability, and absorbency, as well as suitability for a range of postpartum injuries and the accommodation of physiological changes in the body. This action-based research included iterative design processes alongside functional and user testing. While developing effective and satisfying products for new mothers, it is important to also explore the crossover of sustainable design strategies within women’s health. Postpartum products are not intended for long-term use, with their usage depending both on the number of pregnancies and the speed of postpartum recovery. While postpartum and pregnancy care are my target market, there are also secondary uses for this product including menstruation, incontinence, miscarriage, or surgical procedures which result in vaginal or uterine bleeding. This aspect of the research was supported through surveys and interviews of both professionals and users, whose feedback was critical to the design process. The underwear designed through this research uses a combination of novel features associated with reusable period underwear paired with postpartum underwear and includes heating and cooling for pain relief. The key pillars of research and innovation include digital knitting teamed with material exploration and engineered stretch and compression. This work has culminated in postpartum underwear that is reusable, comfortable, absorbent, and promotes healing after birth
Caffeine-milk protein interactions in coffee brews : effects on the in vitro bioaccessibility of caffeine : a thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Food Technology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
Get PDFFigure 2.2 is re-used with permission.Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages around the world and is known for a myriad of health benefits. Black coffee is a rich source of bioactive compounds and has high antioxidant activity. Coffee has been consumed in various forms with and without the addition of milk. The impact of milk addition on the phenolic properties, antioxidant activity, and functionality of bioactive components has been an interesting topic among researchers for the past few decades. But to the best of our knowledge, the effect of milk addition to coffee brew on caffeine bioaccessibility has not yet been addressed in the literature. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the interactions between caffeine and milk proteins in coffee and the effect on in vitro bioaccessibility of caffeine, as well as the antioxidant properties. A range of analytical techniques was employed to assess these interactions. Ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to quantify caffeine content in black coffee and milk-based coffee samples at various stages of digestion. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was applied to examine the molecular interactions between caffeine and milk proteins, focusing on non-covalent binding mechanisms such as hydrogen bonding and Van der Waals forces. Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity were measured using the Folin-Ciocâlteu assay and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity, respectively. Additionally, particle size distribution and ζ-potential analysis were performed to determine the stability and colloidal properties of the coffee samples. In vitro digestion was conducted to simulate gastrointestinal conditions, including the gastric and intestinal phases, to evaluate changes in caffeine bioaccessibility over digestion. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in caffeine content upon milk addition at all digestion stages, indicating strong interactions between caffeine and milk proteins. UV spectroscopy and HPLC analyses revealed that in black coffee, the initial free caffeine content before digestion was 173.1 µg/mL, which decreased to 90.7 µg/mL post-gastric digestion but increased to 147.9 µg/mL after the intestinal phase, suggesting increased free caffeine concentration at the end of digestion. The free caffeine concentration obtained for milk-based coffee was 142 µg/mL before digestion, and at the end of digestion, it was 108 µg/mL, which indicates that milk addition reduced caffeine recovery. Similarly, the addition of milk reduced the TPC and DPPH radical scavenging activity of pure caffeine and coffee brews. The TPC values for black coffee and milk-based coffee were 133.4 and 94.7 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mL, respectively, at the end of digestion. The DPPH antioxidant activity values were 27.42 and 3.54 µg/mL, respectively, for black coffee and milk-based coffee after intestinal digestion. The data from FTIR analysis suggest that non-covalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonding and Van der Waals forces, exist between milk proteins and caffeine, which may affect the functionality of caffeine. Shifts at the major caffeine peak regions (2950-2930 cm-¹) indicate the C-H stretching vibrations, suggesting a possibility for hydrogen bonding and Van der Waals interactions. The results from the particle size data are inconclusive in determining the extent of caffeine interactions or bioaccessibility, necessitating further molecular-level and bioavailability studies. Data from ζ-potential measurement reveals that milk-based coffee has a more stable system compared to black coffee after intestinal digestion. This complements other results as higher stability for a colloidal system could be an indication of less availability for further interactions or release of free caffeine. The in vitro digestion studies reveal that the overall bioaccessibility of caffeine decreases when milk is added to coffee brew. The percentage bioaccessibility of caffeine in black coffee and milk-based coffee was 85.8 and 77%, respectively. The findings of this research contribute to the understanding of coffee as a functional beverage and provide insights into how the addition of milk to the coffee brew may affect the functionality
Is a voluntary healthy food policy effective? evaluating effects on foods and drinks for sale in hospitals and resulting policy changes
Get PDFBackground: Healthy food and drink guidelines for public sector settings can improve the healthiness of food environments. This study aimed to assess the implementation and impact of the voluntary National Healthy Food and Drink Policy (the Policy) introduced in New Zealand in 2016 to encourage provision of healthier food and drink options for staff and visitors at healthcare facilities.
Methods: A customised digital audit tool was used to collate data on foods and drinks available for sale in healthcare organisations and to systematically classify items as green (‘healthy’), amber (‘less healthy’), or red (‘unhealthy’) according to Policy criteria. On-site audits were undertaken between March 2021 and June 2022 at 19 District Health Boards (organisations responsible for providing public health services) and one central government agency. Forty-three sites were audited, encompassing 229 retail settings (serviced food outlets and vending machines). In total, 8485 foods/drinks were classified according to Policy criteria. The primary outcome was alignment with Policy guidance on the availability of green, amber, and red category food/drink items (≥ 55% green and 0% red items). Secondary outcomes were proportions of green, amber, and red category items, promotional practices, and price. Chi-square tests were used to compare results between categorical variables.
Results: No organisation met the criteria for alignment with the Policy. Across all sites, 38.9% of food/drink items were rated red (not permitted), 39.0% were amber, and 22.1% were green. Organisations that adopted the voluntary Policy offered more healthy foods/drinks than those with their own organisational policy, but the proportion of red items remained high: 32.3% versus 47.5% (p < 0.0001). About one-fifth (21.3%) of all items were promoted, with red (24.6%) and amber (22.2%) items significantly more likely to be promoted than green items (14.0%) (p < 0.001). Green items were also significantly more costly on average (NZ4.00) or amber (NZ$4.70) items (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Comprehensive and systematic evaluation showed that a voluntary Policy was not effective in ensuring provision of healthier food/drink options in New Zealand hospitals. The adoption of a single, mandatory Policy, accompanied by dedicated support and regular evaluations, could better support Policy implementation.fals
Adjusted air pollution exposure and corporate innovation investment: Evidence from China
Get PDFUsing a novel measure of air pollution exposure adjusted for the heterogeneity of exposures and the extent of local air pollution, we find a significant negative relationship between adjusted air pollution exposure and corporate innovation investment. This finding still holds after controlling for endogeneity and conducting a series of robustness tests. While the relationship is mediated through net operating cash flows and debt financing costs, we also find that firms with high adjusted air pollution exposure might have deteriorated productivity of R&D personnel, which ultimately hinders innovation input and output. However, state ownership appears to mitigate this adverse effect of adjusted air pollution exposure. Furthermore, the adverse effects of air pollution exposure on innovation investment are more pronounced among firms that disclose environmental information, exhibit low managerial risk tolerance, operate in non-polluting industries, or are located in developed and less polluted regions. Additionally, the negative impact is particularly evident in the subsample of firms after the signing of the 2015 Paris Agreement. This study sheds light on the importance of adjusted air pollution exposure and its influence on corporate investment in China.fals