bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural convection of non-Newtonian nanofluid flow between two vertical parallel plates
Authors: Biswal Uddhaba , Chakraverty Snehashish , Ojha Bata Krushna
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to carry out a detailed investigation to study the natural convection of a non-Newtonian nanofluid flow between two vertical parallel plates. In this study, sodium alginate has been taken as a base fluid and nanoparticles that added to it are copper and silver. Maxwell–Garnetts and Brinkman models are used to calculate the effective thermal conductivity and viscosity of nanofluid, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used two methods in this study, namely, Galerkin’s method and homotopy perturbation method.

Findings

This paper investigates the velocity and temperature profile of nanofluid and the real fluid flow between two vertical parallel plates. The impacts of physical parameters such as nanofluid volume fraction and dimensionless non-Newtonian viscosity are discussed.

Originality/value

Coupled non-linear differential equations are solved for velocity and temperature. A model is proposed in such a way that the authors may get the solution of real fluid from the nanofluid by neglecting the nano term. The authors do not require a further calculation for real fluid problem.
Natural convection of a hybrid nanofluid subjected to non-uniform magnetic field within porous medium including circular heater
Authors: Izadi Mohsen , Maleki Nemat M. , Pop Ioan , Mehryan S.A.M.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to numerically investigate the natural convection heat transfer of a hybrid nanofluid into a porous cavity exposed to a variable magnetic field.

Design/methodology/approach

The non-linear elliptical governing equations have been solved numerically using control volume based finite element method. The effects of different governing parameters including Rayleigh number (Ra = 103 − 106), Hartman number (Ha = 0 − 50), volume fraction of nanoparticles (φ = 0 − 0.02), curvature of horizontal isolated wall (a = 0.85 − 1.15), porosity coefficient (ε = 0.1 − 0.9) and Darcy number (Da = 10−5 − 10−1) have been studied.

Findings

The results indicate that at low Darcy numbers close to 0, the average Nusselt number Nua enhances as porosity coefficient increases. For a = 1 and a = 1.15 in comparison with a = 0.85, the stretching of the isothermal lines is maintained from the left side to the right side and vice versa, which indicates increased natural convection heat transfer for this configuration of the top and bottom walls. In addition, at higher Rayleigh numbers, by increasing the Hartmann number, a significant decrease is observed in the Nusselt number, which can be attributed to the decreased power of the flow.

Originality/value

The authors believe that all the results, both numerical and asymptotic, are original and have not been published elsewhere.
Simulations of flame propagation during the ignition process in an annular multiple-injector combustor
Authors: Zhao Dongmei , Xia Yifan , Ge Haiwen , Lin Qizhao , Zou Jianfeng , Wang Gaofeng
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Ignition process is a critical issue in combustion systems. It is particularly important for reliability and safety prospects of aero-engine. This paper aims to numerically investigate the burner-to-burner propagation during ignition process in a full annular multiple-injector combustor and then validate it by comparing with experimental results.

Design/methodology/approach

The annular multiple-injector experimental setup features 16 swirling injectors and two quartz tubes providing optical accesses to high-speed imaging of flames. A Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes model, adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) and complete San Diego chemistry are used to predict the ignition process.

Findings

The ignition process shows an overall agreement with experiment. The integrated heat release rate of simulation and the integrated light intensity of experiment is also within reasonable agreement. The flow structure and flame propagation dynamics are carefully analyzed. It is found that the flame fronts propagate symmetrically at an early stage and asymmetrically near merging stage. The flame speed slows down before flame merging. Overall, the numerical results show that the present numerical model can reliably predict the flame propagation during the ignition process.

Originality/value

The dedicated AMR method together with detailed chemistry is used for predicting the unsteady ignition procedure in a laboratory-scale annular combustor for the first time. The validation shows satisfying agreements with the experimental investigations. Some details of flow structures are revealed to explain the characteristics of unsteady flame propagations.
Effects of internal marketing on job satisfaction in the banking sector
Authors: Mainardes Emerson Wagner , Rodrigues Lázaro Silva , Teixeira Aridelmo
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to verify the relationship of job satisfaction in the banking sector with its antecedent constructs (financial rewards and psychological rewards) and the mediating role of internal marketing in this relationship and to verify the relationship between job satisfaction in the banking sector and its consequent constructs (work engagement and the intention to leave) and the moderating effect of internal marketing on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional research methodology. Data are collected through an online questionnaire, which involves 355 bank employees. Partial least squares–structural equation modeling is used to verify the predicted relationships.

Findings

The results show that internal marketing tends to mediate the relationship between financial rewards and job satisfaction and the relationship between psychological rewards and job satisfaction. Internal marketing presents a moderating effect on the relationship between job satisfaction and work engagement, but internal marketing does not moderate the relationship between job satisfaction and the intention to leave the bank.

Originality/value

This study expands the understanding of the scope of internal marketing by exploring its mediating and moderating effects on the interactions among the behaviors of banking sector employees.
Gender gap in entrepreneurial growth ambition
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Yaokuang , Long Dan
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Since the limited growth of enterprises has been identified as a deliberate choice of women entrepreneurs, the purpose of this paper is to illustrate how the institutional environment of an entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) fosters the gender gap in entrepreneurial growth intention. The mediating role of the perceived institutional environment in the gender effect on entrepreneurial growth intention is tested in the Chinese context. As individuals’ cognitions are usually influenced by their cultural orientations, the gender difference in perceptions of the institutional environment is considered to be contingent on entrepreneurs’ self-construal.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a multiregional sample of 206 Chinese entrepreneurs who completed the questionnaire, the study obtained results by adopting a structural equation modelling analysis with a partial least squares approach.

Findings

There are significant gender gaps in perceptions of the institutional environment and growth intention among Chinese entrepreneurs. Due to their limited political ties and lower legitimacy in economic activities in the country, Chinese women entrepreneurs have more negative perceptions of the regulative and cognitive institutional environment than their male counterparts, which accounts for the lack of growth ambition among Chinese women entrepreneurs. Independent self-construal enlarges the difference in environmental perceptions between male and female entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This research enriches the discussion in the emerging area of EEs by adequately responding to the highlighted target to advance ambitious entrepreneurship and offering an interpretation of its evolutionary thinking. Given the increasing calls for a focus on high-growth women’s entrepreneurship, this study provides an explanation for how the institutional environment engenders the absence of women in growth-oriented entrepreneurial activities. It also uncovers the overlooked deficiency in institutional practice by highlighting the gender inequality in the implementation process of entrepreneurial support policies and the distribution of entrepreneurial capabilities in society.
Senior public leaders’ perceptions of business intelligence
Authors: Hellström Mikael , Ramberg Ulf
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the perceptions senior public leaders in local government have regarding the need for business intelligence and their perceptions of the extent to which their organizations are capable of effectively assimilating business intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach

The data are from a survey on local governments’ need for and capability to use business intelligence, with a response rate of 50.5 percent, and semi-structured interviews. The survey method originates from private sector research but is adapted to local government conditions in Sweden.

Findings

The leaders’ perceptions about the need for business intelligence were fragmented. Their perceptions regarding its use were even more fragmented, both between different municipalities and within municipalities.

Research limitations/implications

The survey is adapted to local government conditions in Sweden and may need further changes to fit other settings. The adaptation and renewal of questions can lead to summation errors in relation to the original survey.

Practical implications

The paper highlights some of the strategic areas where senior public leaders need to advance their business intelligence and prioritize specific organizational capabilities. The dominant logic, enhancing an inward-looking approach, seems to prevent a more thoroughgoing business analysis.

Originality/value

The adaptation of a method that is mainly used in the private sector can give new perspectives to senior public leaders regarding the need for and use of business intelligence and can help them identify the factors that can affect the complexity and volatility in local government settings.
Influence of positive texturing on friction and wear properties of piston ring-cylinder liner tribo pair under lubricated conditions
Authors: P. Venkateswara Babu , Syed Ismail , Beera Satish Ben
Published: April 2019

Purpose

In an internal combustion engine, piston ring-cylinder liner tribo pair is one among the most critical rubbing pairs. Most of the energy produced by an internal combustion engine is dissipated as frictional losses of which major portion is contributed by the piston ring-cylinder liner tribo pair. Hence, proper design of tribological parameters of piston ring-cylinder liner pair is essential and can effectively reduce the friction and wear, thereby improving the tribological performance of the engine. This paper aims to use surface texturing, an effective and feasible method, to improve the tribological performance of piston ring-cylinder liner tribo pair.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, influence of positive texturing (protruding) on friction reduction and wear resistance of piston ring surfaces was studied. The square-shaped positive textures were fabricated on piston ring surface by chemical etching method, and the experiments were conducted with textured piston ring surfaces against un-textured cylinder liner surface on pin-on-disc apparatus by continuous supply of lubricant at the inlet of contact zone. The parameters varied in this study are area density and normal load at a constant sliding speed. A comparison was made between the tribological properties of textured and un-textured piston ring surfaces.

Findings

From the experimental results, the tribological performance of the textured piston ring-cylinder liner tribo pair was significantly improved over a un-textured tribo pair. A maximum friction reduction of 67.6 per cent and wear resistance of 81.6 per cent were observed with textured ring surfaces as compared to un-textured ring surfaces.

Originality/value

This experimental study is helpful for better understanding of the potency of positive texturing on friction reduction and wear resistance of piston ring-cylinder liner tribo pair under lubricated sliding conditions.
The trials and tribulations of JTH Inc.
Authors: Jaiswal Mayank , Maxwell Robert
Published: April 2019

Theoretical basis

The theoretical linkages are with dynamic nature of PESTEL analysis, Porter’s five forces, resource-based view of the firm and characteristics of an entrepreneur.

Research methodology

The names of the institutions and individuals involved have been disguised. However, the material facts of the case are authentic.

Case overview/synopsis

This case discusses strategy in the context of a crisis situation in a small business. JTH Inc. was a computer subcontract manufacturing (SCM) firm serving the New England region of the USA. The influx of international competition (mainly from China) due to recession led to significant challenges for JTH and the SCM industry. JTH was struggling and the situation was further complicated by the founder’s (Robert Maxwell) personal and emotional situation. Robert had to decide whether to keep the business running, close it down, merge with/be acquired by a competitor, innovate the business model or do something else.

Complexity academic level

This case is designed to target undergraduate students of Strategic Management; it may also include Entrepreneurship students. It should most probably be taught in the first half of the course after concepts such as PESTEL, Porter and resource-based view of the firm have been taught.
Plant species richness elicits changes in the metabolome of grassland species via soil biotic legacy
Authors: Ristok Christian , Poeschl Yvonne , Dudenhöffer Jan‐Hendrik , Ebeling Anne , Eisenhauer Nico , Vergara Fredd , Wagg Cameron , van Dam Nicole M. , Weinhold Alexander
Published: April 2019

Species‐rich plant communities can induce unique soil biotic legacy effects through changing the abundance and composition of soil biota. These soil legacy effects can cause feedbacks to influence plant performance. In addition, soil biota can induce (defensive) secondary metabolites in shoots and roots and thus affect plant–herbivore interactions. We hypothesize that plant diversity‐driven soil biotic legacy effects elicit changes in the shoot and root metabolome.

We tested this hypothesis by establishing an experiment with four plant species. We grew plants in a sterile substrate inoculated with soil conditioned by different plant species communities: (a) monocultures of either of the four species, (b) the four species in a mixture, (c) an eight species mixture including all four species or (d) a sterile inoculum. After at least 8 weeks in the field, we estimated shoot herbivory. At the same time, we took root and shoot samples for metabolomics analyses by liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry.

We found that shoot and root metabolomes of all plants grown in sterile soil differed significantly from those grown in living soil. The plant metabolomes in living soils differed by species and tissue. Across all species, shoots displayed a greater richness of secondary metabolites than roots. The richness of secondary metabolites differed by species and among living soils. The conditioning species richness significantly affected the Shannon diversity of secondary metabolites in Centaurea jacea. Shoot herbivory positively correlated with the richness and Shannon diversity of secondary metabolites in Leucanthemum vulgare. We detected multiple metabolites that together explained up to 88% of the variation in herbivory in the shoots of C. jacea and Plantago lanceolata.

Synthesis. Our findings suggest that plant diversity‐driven shifts in soil biota elicit changes in the composition and diversity of shoot and root secondary metabolites. However, these plant responses and their effect on shoot herbivores are species‐specific. Tracking changes in plant secondary chemistry in response to soil biotic legacy effects will help to understand the mechanisms that govern species‐specific plant–plant and plant–herbivore interactions.
Benign disease prone to be misdiagnosed as malignant pulmonary nodules: Minute meningothelioid nodules
Authors: Peng Xiao‐Xiao , Yan Li‐Xu , Liu Chao , Wang Si‐Yun , Li Wen‐Feng , Gao Xing , Wei Xue‐Wu , Zhou Qing
Published: April 2019

Background

The lung is one of the most common target organs for malignant tumor metastasis. The existence of lung metastasis may have a decisive effect on the choice of treatment regimen. Minute pulmonary meningothelial‐like nodules (MPMNs) usually present as ground‐glass opacity or solid nodules, mimicking the imaging findings of malignant pulmonary nodules. This study summarizes the clinical, radiological, and pathological features of MPMNs to distinguish them from malignant pulmonary nodules.

Methods

The Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute Pathology Information System was searched using the key words “minute meningothelioid nodules” and “lung.” Patients who underwent pulmonary resection from 23 February 2009 to 31 May 2017 were included in the study. The 11th edition of Rosai and Ackerman's Surgical Pathology was used to confirm the diagnosis. The clinical, imaging, and pathological characteristics of MPMNs were recorded.

Results

Twelve patients had MPMNs. MPMNs were associated with cancerous or precancerous lesions (10/12), female gender (11/12), and non‐smokers (11/12). Four patients were misdiagnosed with malignant pulmonary nodules before surgery. Positron emission tomography‐computed tomography revealed an increased maximum standardized uptake value in one patient. Immunohistochemistry identified eight specimens positive for vimentin, EMA, and PR and negative for TTF‐1 and CK.

Conclusions

MPMNs tend to coexist with malignant tumors, mimicking the imaging findings of malignant pulmonary nodules, thus resulting in misdiagnosis. Dynamic monitoring or an invasive examination may help to distinguish MPMNs from malignant lesions.
Decreased Macrophage Autophagy Promotes Liver Injury and Inflammation from Alcohol
Authors: Ilyas Ghulam , Cingolani Francesca , Zhao Enpeng , Tanaka Kathryn , Czaja Mark J.
Published: April 2019

Background

One mechanism underlying the development of alcoholic liver disease is overactivation of the innate immune response. Recent investigations indicate that the lysosomal pathway of autophagy down‐regulates the inflammatory state of hepatic macrophages, suggesting that macrophage autophagy may regulate innate immunity in alcoholic liver disease. The function of macrophage autophagy in the development of alcoholic liver disease was examined in studies employing mice with a myeloid‐specific decrease in autophagy.

Methods

Littermate control and Atg5Δmye mice lacking Atg5‐dependent myeloid autophagy were administered a Lieber–DeCarli control (CD) or ethanol diet (ED) alone or together with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and examined for the degree of liver injury and inflammation.

Results

Knockout mice with decreased macrophage autophagy had equivalent steatosis but increased mortality and liver injury from ED alone. Increased liver injury and hepatocyte death also occurred in Atg5Δmye mice administered ED and LPS in association with systemic inflammation as indicated by elevated serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Hepatic macrophage and neutrophil infiltration were unaffected by decreased autophagy, but levels of proinflammatory cytokine gene induction were significantly increased in the livers but not adipose tissue of knockout mice treated with ED and LPS. Inflammasome activation was increased in ED/LPS‐treated knockout mice resulting in elevated interleukin (IL)‐1β production. Increased IL‐1β promoted alcoholic liver disease as liver injury was decreased by the administration of an IL‐1 receptor antagonist.

Conclusions

Macrophage autophagy functions to prevent liver injury from alcohol. This protection is mediated in part by down‐regulation of inflammasome‐dependent and inflammasome‐independent hepatic inflammation. Therapies to increase autophagy may be effective in this disease through anti‐inflammatory effects on macrophages.
Thinking bigger: How early‐life environmental exposures shape the gut microbiome and influence the development of asthma and allergic disease
Authors: Sbihi Hind , Boutin Rozlyn CT. , Cutler Chelsea , Suen Mandy , Finlay B. Brett , Turvey Stuart E.
Published: April 2019

Imbalance, or dysbiosis, of the gut microbiome of infants has been linked to an increased risk of asthma and allergic diseases. Most studies to date have provided a wealth of data showing correlations between early‐life risk factors for disease and changes in the structure of the gut microbiome that disrupt normal immunoregulation. These studies have typically focused on one specific risk factor, such as mode of delivery or early‐life antibiotic use. Such “micro‐level” exposures have a considerable impact on affected individuals but not necessarily the whole population. In this review, we place these mechanisms under a larger lens that takes into account the influence of upstream “macro‐level” environmental factors such as air pollution and the built environment. While these exposures likely have a smaller impact on the microbiome at an individual level, their ubiquitous nature confers them with a large influence at the population level. We focus on features of the indoor and outdoor human‐made environment, their microbiomes and the research challenges inherent in integrating the built environment microbiomes with the early‐life gut microbiome. We argue that an exposome perspective integrating internal and external microbiomes with macro‐level environmental factors can provide a more comprehensive framework to define how environmental exposures can shape the gut microbiome and influence the development of allergic disease.
Periostin: An emerging biomarker for allergic diseases
Authors: Izuhara Kenji , Nunomura Satoshi , Nanri Yasuhiro , Ono Junya , Takai Masayuki , Kawaguchi Atsushi
Published: April 2019

Periostin is a matricellular protein as well as an extracellular matrix (ECM) protein belonging to the fasciclin family. Periostin plays important roles as a matricellular protein in the setting of allergic diseases by binding to several integrins on various cells. Since periostin is induced mainly by IL‐4 and IL‐13, signature type 2 cytokines, and it is highly expressed in the subepithelial regions of many chronic allergic diseases, periostin has emerged as a novel biomarker reflecting type 2 inflammation in allergic diseases. It has, moreover, been revealed that periostin has characteristics different from other type 2 biomarkers such as eosinophil count and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), reflecting fibrosis or tissue remodeling. From this, we may say that serum periostin is a “chronic” type 2 biomarker, whereas FeNO and possibly the eosinophil count are “acute” type 2 biomarkers. In contrast, it is still uncertain how we can apply periostin measurement to the use of biologics for allergic diseases. By examining the roles of periostin in allergy and the utility and potential of periostin in developing diagnostics against allergic diseases, it is hoped that in the near future, we can develop a new strategy to treat allergic patients.
Interference in the anti‐Xa heparin activity assay due to hemolysis and icterus during pediatric extracorporeal life support
Authors: Khan Jenna , Chandler Wayne L.
Published: April 2019

Chromogenic anti‐Xa assays for unfractionated heparin monitoring (heparin activity) are susceptible to interference from hemolysis and icterus. The purpose of this study was to better understand the effect of hemolysis and icterus on anti‐Xa heparin activity and to predict the magnitude of the error. Increasing levels of hemoglobin and unconjugated bilirubin were added to pooled normal plasma or buffer containing known levels of heparin. Increased plasma hemoglobin or bilirubin produced falsely increased residual factor Xa activity as measured by the absorbance change (OD/min) in the Stago heparin activity assay. This increased absorbance change slope resulted in falsely lower estimates of heparin activity. The falsely lower heparin activity measurement occurred even when heparin was not present, indicating it was not due to heparin neutralization. In a sample containing 0.62 ± 0.06 U/mL heparin and 228 mg/dL hemoglobin, the measured heparin activity was 0.41 ± 0.03 U/mL, underestimating heparin activity by 0.21 ± 0.07 U/mL. Interference occurred if plasma hemoglobin was above 70 mg/dL or bilirubin was above 16 mg/dL, which happened in 16%–26% of samples from pediatric patients on extracorporeal life support (ECLS). In conclusion, hemolysis and icterus were common in ECLS patients, leading to underestimates of unfractionated heparin activity and potentially higher doses of heparin than intended. The magnitude of the heparin activity measurement error could be predicted based on plasma hemoglobin and bilirubin levels until these levels exceeded the technical limits of the assay, ~230 mg/dL hemoglobin and 55 mg/dL bilirubin.
Quantitative evaluation of primary retinitis pigmentosa patients using colour Doppler flow imaging and optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Na , Zhao Qi , Li Dong‐Jun , Wang Zi‐Yang , Chen Wei , Li Yi‐Feng , Cui Rui , Shen Lin , Wang Ruikang K. , Peng Xiao‐Yan , Yang Wen‐Li
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To find the potential relation between changes in retinal large vessels and terminal vessels using colour Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and to compare the respective advantages of CDFI and OCTA in evaluating vascular changes in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients.

Methods

A prospective series of case study was conducted to enrol RP patients and age‐matched controls, who were, respectively, imaged by CDFI and OCTA. Repeatability and reproducibility of both CDFI and OCTA were performed among healthy volunteers. The central retinal artery (CRA) was detected by CDFI analysis to provide parameters of peak systolic velocity (PSV), end‐diastolic velocity (EDV) and time‐averaged maximum velocity (TAMV). Retinal parameters were evaluated from OCTA images, including vascular area density (VAD) of the superficial vascular layer, the fovea avascular zone (FAZ) area and retinal thickness. RP patients were separated into a high‐vision group and a low‐vision group, according to median vision (0.3, LogMAR 0.5). Multiple comparisons were used to analyse the data between groups. A correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between CDFI and OCTA parameters.

Results

Twenty RP patients (40 eyes) and thirteen normal volunteers (26 eyes) were enrolled in this study. Repeatability and reproducibility of the measurements by CDFI had higher CVs, from 4.5% to 15.4%, than those measurements by OCTA (<5%). All the CDFI and OCTA parameters examined had significant reductions in RP patients compared to those in the controls (p < 0.01). Compared to the high‐vision group, the low‐vision group exhibited a statistically significant decrease in vascular parameters of the FAZ area, fovea VAD and parafovea nasal side VAD (p < 0.05); as well as in the parameters of the fovea thickness, and the parafovea nasal, superior and inferior side thickness (p < 0.05). From the correlation analysis, a significant association was found between the vision and CDFI parameters (PSV and time‐averaged maximum velocity (TAMX), p < 0.05), and the vision and OCTA parameters (FAZ area, fovea and nasal side VAD, retinal thickness in all sides, p < 0.05). PSV and TAMX of the CRA were closely related to the OCTA superficial VAD in all sides, whereas the CDFI parameters showed poor correlation with retinal thickness.

Conclusions

Colour Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) and OCTA parameters revealed a significant reduction in RP patients when compared to the controls. OCTA can detect vision‐related microvascular and thickness changes around the macula between high‐ and low‐vision groups, which happen earlier than the changes in large vessels. In addition to good repeatability and reproducibility, OCTA may have significant utility in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression in RP patients.
Dealing with Too Little: The Direct Experience of Scarcity does not Affect Snack Intake
Authors: van Rongen Sofie , Verkooijen Kirsten , de Vet Emely
Published: April 2019

Background

The experience of scarcity provides an explanation for the relatively unhealthy diets of people with low income. Causal evidence for an effect of direct experiences of scarcity on eating behaviour is lacking.

Methods

Two studies (N = 81, N = 115) tested and refined a self‐developed trade‐off task, in which participants' resources were restricted (scarcity condition) or unrestricted (no‐scarcity condition), for manipulating experiences of scarcity. Two further studies (N = 95, N = 122) were performed to test whether scarcity results in greater calorie consumption from snacks and lower self‐reported self‐regulation of eating.

Results

The scarcity manipulation appeared successful. A significant main effect of scarcity on eating was not found; however, an interaction effect between hunger and scarcity bordered on significance, such that those in the scarcity condition consumed more calories under low hunger. In the second experiment, participants were instructed to eat prior to participation to lower their hunger level. No difference between conditions was found in calorie consumption and self‐regulation of eating.

Conclusion

Although the trade‐off task appeared to evoke scarcity experiences, the present research could not support the notion that these result in unhealthier eating. A more nuanced view of the influence of scarcity on eating is needed.
Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors lower the risk of autoimmune disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Seong Jong‐Mi , Yee Jeong , Gwak Hye Sun
Published: April 2019

Aims

To evaluate the real‐world effect of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP4i) on the incidence of autoimmune diseases (AD), including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel diseases, multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Methods

We identified new users of DPP4i (n = 497 619) or non‐DPP4i (n = 643 165) oral combination therapy between 1 January 2011 and 30 June 2015 among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Korean national health insurance claims database. Patients were followed from the date of initiation of combination therapy until AD outcome, censoring for treatment discontinuation or switching, death or end of study (31 August 2016). Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for RA, inflammatory bowel diseases, other AD (multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus), and the composite of all outcomes were estimated using propensity score (PS)‐adjusted Cox model.

Results

In the PS‐weighted and PS‐matched analysis, the risk of incident RA was decreased for DPP4i initiators compared with non‐DPP4i initiators (aHR 0.67 [95% CI 0.49–0.92] and aHR 0.72 [95% CI 0.51–1.01], respectively). In both analyses, the risk of incident composite AD was also decreased for DPP4i initiators compared with non‐DPP4i initiators (aHR 0.82 [95% CI 0.68–0.99] and aHR 0.76 [95% CI 0.62–0.93], respectively).

Conclusions

In this large population‐based cohort study, upfront DPP4i combination therapy was associated with a lower risk of composite AD compared with initial non‐DPP4i combination therapy.
The Simplified PADUA REnal (SPARE) nephrometry system: a novel classification of parenchymal renal tumours suitable for partial nephrectomy
Authors: Ficarra Vincenzo , Porpiglia Francesco , Crestani Alessandro , Minervini Andrea , Antonelli Alessandro , Longo Nicola , Novara Giacomo , Giannarini Gianluca , Fiori Cristian , Simeone Claudio , Carini Marco , Mirone Vincenzo
Published: April 2019

Objective

To simplify the original Preoperative Aspects and Dimensions Used for an Anatomical (PADUA) classification of renal tumours, generating a new system able to predict equally or better the risk of overall complications in patients undergoing partial nephrectomy (PN); and to test if the addition of the contact surface area (CSA) parameter improves the accuracy of the original PADUA and new Simplified PADUA REnal (SPARE) nephrometry classification systems.

Patients and Methods

We analysed the clinical records of 531 patients who underwent PN (open, laparoscopic and robot‐assisted) for renal tumours at five tertiary academic referral centres from January 2014 to December 2016. The ability of each variable included in the PADUA classification to predict overall complications was tested using binary logistic regression analysis. The variables that were not statistically significant were excluded from the SPARE classification. In addition to the original PADUA and SPARE systems, another two models were generated adding tumour CSA. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to compare the ability of the four different models to predict overall complications. Binary logistic regression was used to perform both univariable and multivariable analyses looking for predictors of postoperative complications. Linear regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of absolute change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; ACE).

Results

The SPARE nephrometry score system including: (i) rim location, (ii) renal sinus involvement, (iii) exophytic rate, and (iv) tumour dimension; showed equal performance in comparison with the original PADUA score (area under the curve [AUC] 0.657 vs 0.664). Adding tumour CSA to the original PADUA (AUC 0.661) or to the SPARE (AUC 0.658) scores did not increase the accuracy of either system to predict overall complications. The SPARE system (odds ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval 1.1–1.3) was an independent predictor of postoperative overall complications. Age (P < 0.001), body mass index (P < 0.001), Charlson Comorbidity Index (P = 0.02), preoperative eGFR (P < 0.001), and tumour CSA (P = 0.005) were independent predictors of ACE. Limitations include the retrospective design and the lack of central imaging review.

Conclusions

The new SPARE score is comprised of only four variables instead of the original six and its accuracy to predict overall complications is similar to that of the original PADUA score. Addition of tumour CSA was not associated with an increase in prognostic accuracy. The SPARE system could replace the original PADUA score to evaluate the complexity of tumours suitable for PN.
Phenology and floral synchrony of Rhizophora mangle along a natural salinity gradient
Authors: Peel Joanne R. , Golubov Jordan , Mandujano María C. , López‐Portillo Jorge
Published: April 2019

Rhizophora mangle is the most common species of mangrove within its range and a major component of coastal ecosystems in the tropics and subtropics. Its phenology is affected by seasonal variations in temperature, salinity, and precipitation, all of which may be altered by impending climate change. In this work, the monthly leaf, flower, and fruit phenology of R. mangle was assessed at three sites, along a natural salinity gradient for 12 months. We assessed phenological states using litter traps installed in mangrove stands, and by direct observation of leaf production at two sites, and flower, and fruit production at a single site. Phenological events were compared with seasonal climatic variations (in wind, rain, and temperature) to explore potential abiotic controls on the phenology of this species. Leaf shedding was lowest at the low salinity site. Leaf and stipule production showed a seasonal trend, decreasing during the cool and dry winter months. Flowering was highly seasonal and synchronous and peaked during the rainy season. Flowering was correlated with average temperature (r = 0.82; p < 0.05) at all three study sites, but was not correlated with precipitation. At the high‐salinity site, flowering was restricted to the rainy season. Fruit abortion was associated with wind speed (r = 0.79; p < 0.05). Flowering of R. mangle is induced by increasing temperatures and the onset of rains. Rising temperatures, drier summers, and more frequent and intense storms, due to climate change, may influence mangrove productivity, population dynamics, and floral synchrony.
The gender gap in university enrolment: Do parents play a role beyond investing in skills?
Authors: Foley Kelly
Published: April 2019

Young men are far less likely than women to attend university across most OECD countries. I use data from the Youth in Transition Survey (YITS) to investigate this issue in the Canadian context, focusing on how parents might influence this gender gap. In particular, my goal is to isolate the incremental effect of parents’ valuations of education during the teenage years, holding constant the stock of skills acquired up to that point. To estimate this effect, I use a factor model based on a framework developed by Foley et al. (2014). My results confirm the importance of skills in determining the gender gap in university attendance. I also find that differences in the distribution of parental valuations of education account for 22% of the gender gap in the YITS data, pointing toward an important role that parents play, not accounted for in prior work.
Novel approaches for the design, delivery and administration of vaccine technologies
Authors: Wallis J , Shenton D P , Carlisle R C
Published: April 2019

It is easy to argue that vaccine development represents humankind’s most important and successful endeavour, such is the impact that vaccination has had on human morbidity and mortality over the last 200 years. During this time the original method of Jenner and Pasteur, i.e. that of injecting live-attenuated or inactivated pathogens, has been developed and supplemented with a wide range of alternative approaches which are now in clinical use or under development. These next-generation technologies have been designed to produce a vaccine that has the effectiveness of the original live-attenuated and inactivated vaccines, but without the associated risks and limitations. Indeed, the method of development has undoubtedly moved away from Pasteur’s three Is paradigm (isolate, inactivate, inject) towards an approach of rational design, made possible by improved knowledge of the pathogen–host interaction and the mechanisms of the immune system. These novel vaccines have explored methods for targeted delivery of antigenic material, as well as for the control of release profiles, so that dosing regimens can be matched to the time-lines of immune system stimulation and the realities of health-care delivery in dispersed populations. The methods by which vaccines are administered are also the subject of intense research in the hope that needle and syringe dosing, with all its associated issues regarding risk of injury, cross-infection and patient compliance, can be replaced. This review provides a detailed overview of new vaccine vectors as well as information pertaining to the novel delivery platforms under development.
Re‐osseointegration following reconstructive surgical therapy of experimental peri‐implantitis. A pre‐clinical in vivo study
Authors: Almohandes Ahmed , Carcuac Olivier , Abrahamsson Ingemar , Lund Henrik , Berglundh Tord
Published: April 2019

Objective

To evaluate the effect of bone substitute materials on hard and soft tissue healing in reconstructive surgical therapy of experimental peri‐implantitis at implants with different surface characteristics.

Material and methods

Six female, Labrador dogs were used. 3 months after tooth extraction, four implants with two different surface characteristics (A and B) were installed on each side of the mandible. Experimental peri‐implantitis was induced 3 months later. During surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis, the implants were cleaned with curettes and cotton pellets soaked in saline. The implant sites were allocated to one of four treatment categories; (a) Group C; no augmentation, (b) Group T1; bone defect filled with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (c) Group T2; bone defect filled with a biphasic bone graft material, (d) Group T3; bone defect filled as T1 and covered with a collagen membrane. Clinical and radiological examinations were performed, and biopsies were obtained and prepared for histological analysis 6 months after peri‐implantitis surgery.

Results

Implant B (smooth surface) sites showed significantly (a) larger radiographic bone level gain, (b) enhanced resolution of peri‐implantitis lesions, and (c) larger frequency of re‐osseointegration than implant A (moderately rough surface) sites. Implant B sites also showed superior preservation of the mucosal margin. Differences between bone substitute materials and control procedures were overall small with limited advantages for T1 and T2 sites.

Conclusion

Healing following reconstructive surgical treatment of experimental peri‐implantitis was superior around implants with a smooth surface than implants with a moderately rough surface. Benefits of using bone substitute materials during surgical therapy were overall small.
Using individual‐based movement information to identify spatial conservation priorities for mobile species
Authors: Dwyer Ross G. , Campbell Hamish A. , Pillans Richard D. , Watts Matthew E. , Lyon Barry J. , Guru Siddeswara M. , Dinh Minh N. , Possingham Hugh P. , Franklin Craig E.
Published: April 2019

The optimal design of reserve networks and fisheries closures depends on species occurrence information and knowledge of how anthropogenic impacts interact with the species concerned. However, challenges in surveying mobile and cryptic species over adequate spatial and temporal scales can mask the importance of particular habitats, leading to uncertainty about which areas to protect to optimize conservation efforts. We investigated how telemetry‐derived locations can help guide the scale and timing of fisheries closures with the aim of reducing threatened species bycatch. Forty juvenile speartooth sharks (Glyphis glyphis) were monitored over 22 months with implanted acoustic transmitters and an array of hydrophone receivers. Using the decision‐support tool Marxan, we formulated a permanent fisheries closure that prioritized areas used more frequently by tagged sharks and considered areas perceived as having high value to fisheries. To explore how the size of the permanent closure compared with an alternative set of time‐area closures (i.e., where different areas were closed to fishing at different times of year), we used a cluster analysis to group months that had similar arrangements of selected planning units (informed by shark movements during that month) into 2 time‐area closures. Sharks were consistent in their timing and direction of migratory movements, but the number of tagged sharks made a big difference in the placement of the permanent closure; 30 individuals were needed to capture behavioral heterogeneity. The dry‐season (May–January) and wet‐season (February–April) time‐area closures opened 20% and 25% more planning units to fishing, respectively, compared with the permanent closure with boundaries fixed in space and time. Our results show that telemetry has the potential to inform and improve spatial management of mobile species and that the temporal component of tracking data can be incorporated into prioritizations to reduce possible impacts of spatial closures on established fisheries.
Expert consensus on a train‐the‐trainer curriculum for robotic colorectal surgery
Authors: Gómez Ruiz M. , Alfieri S. , Becker T. , Bergmann M. , Boggi U. , Collins J. , Figueiredo N. , Gögenur I. , Matzel K. , Miskovic D. , Parvaiz A. , Pratschke J. , Rivera Castellano J. , Qureshi T. , Svendsen L. B. , Tekkis P. , Vaz C.
Published: April 2019

Aim

Robotic techniques are being increasingly used in colorectal surgery. There is, however, a lack of training opportunities and structured training programmes. Robotic surgery has specific problems and challenges for trainers and trainees. Ergonomics, specific skills and user–machine interfaces are different from those in traditional laparoscopic surgery. The aim of this study was to establish expert consensus on the requirements for a robotic train‐the‐trainer curriculum amongst robotic surgeons and trainers.

Method

This is a modified Delphi‐type study involving 14 experts in robotic surgery teaching. A reiterating 19‐item questionnaire was sent out to the same group and agreement levels analysed. A consensus of 0.8 or higher was considered to be high‐level agreement.

Results

Response rates were 93–100% and most items reached high levels of agreement within three rounds. Specific requirements for a robotic faculty development curriculum included maximizing dual‐console teaching, theatre team training, nontechnical skills training, patient safety, user–machine interface training and telementoring.

Conclusion

A clear need for the development of a train‐the‐trainer curriculum has been identified. Further research is needed to assess feasibility, effectiveness and clinical impact of a robotic train‐the‐trainer curriculum.
904. RHODODENDRON LEPTOCLADON
Authors: Rushforth Keith , Huong Nguyen Thi Thanh
Published: April 2019

Rhododendron leptocladon Dop is illustrated. Further information on this little‐known species is given, and its status within section Rhododendron Subsection Maddenia is discussed.
When information becomes action: drivers of individuals' trust in broadcast versus peer‐to‐peer information in disaster response
Authors: Martin‐Shields Charles Patrick
Published: April 2019

Information and communications technology (ICT), primarily mobile telephones and social media, is increasingly important in crisis and disaster response in developing countries. This fact raises an important question: in an information environment that includes traditional media such as radio and television, who are the people that trust information from ICT enough to act on it during a disaster? Drawing on a case study of and original survey data from the island nation of the Independent State of Samoa, this paper yields insights into who uses new technologies, particularly mobile telephones, to make decisions at the local level during crises such as natural disasters, as well as the socio‐political factors that motivate their behaviour. The results add to the growing pool of knowledge on utilisation of ICT and new technologies in developing countries for disaster response, and provide practical information on the social and political factors that lead people to trust different information sources and media.