bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation Into the Characteristics of Chars Obtained From Fast Pyrolysis of Different Biomass Fuels
Authors: Gao Xiaoyan , Zhang Yaning , Li Bingxi , Xie Gongnan , Zhao Wenke
Published: March 2018

Biomass is a promising alternative energy source for fossil fuel with the advantages of abundance, renewability, environmental friendliness, etc. This makes the development of biomass technology be of great potential and interesting. The experiments of biomass fast pyrolysis were performed in a microquartz reactor for rice husk (RH), corn stalk (CS) and birch wood (BW), and scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer, and Raman microscope were then applied to analyze the collected chars. The average char yields of RH, CS, and BW pyrolyzed at 800 °C were 29.64%, 18.67%, and 8.64%, respectively. The morphological structures of RH and CS were mainly reserved in chars, while the raw surface textures of BW disappeared during the fast pyrolysis. The silicon concentrations in RH char and CS char were much higher than BW char, and the graphitization degree of CS char was the lowest among the three biomass chars.
Noninvasive electrical plasma monitoring method using reactor substrates as alternative current-sensing electrodes
Authors: Park Ji-Hwan , Chung Chin-Wook
Published: March 2018

The authors propose a noninvasive electrical plasma monitoring method that uses two initially present metal reactor substrates, without the probe insertion. When a small sinusoidal voltage is applied between these two substrates, harmonic currents flow in a closed-loop circuit through the plasma. Assuming that the plasma exhibits nonlocal electron kinetics, the electron temperature and plasma density are determined based on an asymmetric double probe harmonic currents analysis. Experimental demonstrations were conducted in an inductively coupled plasma reactor, in which a grounded substrate and a bias electrode were used as the current-sensing electrodes. The electron temperature and plasma density measured with the proposed method agree well with measurements from a floating-type planar probe. This method can be applied to processing reactors that have no available port for electrical probe installation.
Fresnel's original interpretation of complex numbers in 19th century optics
Authors: Karam Ricardo
Published: March 2018

In 1823, Fresnel published an original (physical) interpretation of complex numbers in his investigations of refraction and reflection of polarized light. This is arguably the first time that complex numbers were given a physical interpretation, which led to a better understanding of elliptical and circular polarizations. This rather unknown episode of the history of physics is described in this work, and some of the pedagogical lessons that can be extracted from it are discussed.
Continuously steerable second-order differential microphone arrays
Authors: Byun Joon , Park Young-cheol , Park Sung Wook
Published: March 2018

This paper proposes a second-order differential microphone array (DMA) that can continuously steer in the main lobe direction. First, a general response of the second-order DMA is derived as a linear combination of a monopole and dipoles. Nine- and seven-microphone systems are proposed to realize continuous steering of the second-order DMA. The proposed system synthesizes the steered beam pattern without requiring the phase shifter by using back-to-back cardioids. Simulation results show that the nine-microphone configuration yields a nearly constant and high white noise gain, but the seven-microphone configuration has the practical advantage that it requires fewer microphones.
Accuracy of five formulae to determine the insertion length of umbilical venous catheters
Authors: Lean Wei Ling , Dawson Jennifer A , Davis Peter G , Theda Christiane , Thio Marta
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Umbilical venous catheter (UVC) placement is a common neonatal procedure. It is important to position the UVC tip accurately at the first attempt to prevent complications and minimise handling. Catheters positioned too low need to be removed, but catheters positioned too high may be withdrawn in a sterile fashion to a safe position. We aimed to determine the precision and accuracy of five published formulae developed to guide UVC placement.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. Following UVC insertion, anteroposterior and lateral X-rays were performed to identify catheter tip position. Parameters required to apply the five formulae were recorded. Insertion lengths were then calculated and compared with the gold standard (UVC tip at the level of the diaphragm on the lateral X-ray). They were also used to classify predicted UVC tip position as either correct (UVC tip at or up to 1 cm above the diaphragm), too high or too low.

Results

Of 118 eligible infants, 70 had the UVC tip in a position where measurements could be used. Their median (IQR) gestational age and weight were 28.5 (26–36) weeks and 1035 (745–2788) g, respectively. The predicted success rate for each formula ranged from 44.9% to 55.7%. A formula based on birth weight had the highest rate of either correct or high position (95.8%).

Conclusions

Inserting a UVC into a safe position on first attempt is difficult and low tip placement is common. Around half of UVCs need to be manipulated to achieve the desired position.
Rate of hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance remains low for a large, real-life cohort of patients with hepatitis C cirrhosis
Authors: Tran Sally Ann , Le An , Zhao Changqing , Hoang Joseph , Yasukawa Lee Ann , Weber Susan , Henry Linda , Nguyen Mindie H
Published: March 2018

Background

In patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) cirrhosis, imaging for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is recommended every 6 months to maximise eligibility for curative treatment. The aim was to determine the adherence rate and outcomes among patients with CHC cirrhosis and whether the adherence rate has improved over time.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients with CHC cirrhosis (n=2366) monitored for ≥1 year at Stanford University Medical Center between January 2001 and August 2015.

Results

Overall demographics: mean age 54; 62.3% men; 48.3% Caucasian. 24.4% adherent to imaging every 6 months per European Association for the Study of the Liver 2000 and American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) 2011 criteria and 44% at least every 12 months per AASLD 2005 criteria. No significant change in adherence before and after 2011. Predictors of multivariable analysis of adherence were age >54 (OR 1.74, p<0.0001), Asian ethnicity (OR 2.23, p<0.0001), liver decompensation (OR 2.40, p<0.0001) and having ≥2 clinical visits per year (OR 1.33, p=0.01). During follow-up, 9.6% were diagnosed with HCC. Adherent patients were more likely to have smaller tumours (2.3 vs 3.3 cm, p=0.0020), be within the Milan criteria for liver transplants (73.2% vs 54.8%, p=0.006) and receive curative HCC treatment (43.6% vs 24.0%, p=0.005). On multivariable analysis, curative treatment (HR 0.32, p=0.001) and every 6-month imaging (HR 0.34, p=0.005), but not every 6–12 month imaging, were associated with reduced risk of mortality.

Conclusions

Adherence to HCC surveillance continues to be poor. Adherent patients with HCC were more likely to undergo curative treatment and have better survival. Research understanding barriers to surveillance is needed.
Impact of Ebola experiences and risk perceptions on mental health in Sierra Leone, July 2015
Authors: Jalloh Mohamed F , Li Wenshu , Bunnell Rebecca E , Ethier Kathleen A , O’Leary Ann , Hageman Kathy M , Sengeh Paul , Jalloh Mohammad B , Morgan Oliver , Hersey Sara , Marston Barbara J , Dafae Foday , Redd John T
Published: March 2018

Background

The mental health impact of the 2014–2016 Ebola epidemic has been described among survivors, family members and healthcare workers, but little is known about its impact on the general population of affected countries. We assessed symptoms of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the general population in Sierra Leone after over a year of outbreak response.

Methods

We administered a cross-sectional survey in July 2015 to a national sample of 3564 consenting participants selected through multistaged cluster sampling. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were measured by Patient Health Questionnaire-4. PTSD symptoms were measured by six items from the Impact of Events Scale-revised. Relationships among Ebola experience, perceived Ebola threat and mental health symptoms were examined through binary logistic regression.

Results

Prevalence of any anxiety-depression symptom was 48% (95% CI 46.8% to 50.0%), and of any PTSD symptom 76% (95% CI 75.0% to 77.8%). In addition, 6% (95% CI 5.4% to 7.0%) met the clinical cut-off for anxiety-depression, 27% (95% CI 25.8% to 28.8%) met levels of clinical concern for PTSD and 16% (95% CI 14.7% to 17.1%) met levels of probable PTSD diagnosis. Factors associated with higher reporting of any symptoms in bivariate analysis included region of residence, experiences with Ebola and perceived Ebola threat. Knowing someone quarantined for Ebola was independently associated with anxiety-depression (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.3, 95% CI 1.7 to 2.9) and PTSD (AOR 2.095% CI 1.5 to 2.8) symptoms. Perceiving Ebola as a threat was independently associated with anxiety-depression (AOR 1.69 95% CI 1.44 to 1.98) and PTSD (AOR 1.86 95% CI 1.56 to 2.21) symptoms.

Conclusion

Symptoms of PTSD and anxiety-depression were common after one year of Ebola response; psychosocial support may be needed for people with Ebola-related experiences. Preventing, detecting, and responding to mental health conditions should be an important component of global health security efforts.
Nineteen and Up study (19Up): understanding pathways to mental health disorders in young Australian twins
Authors: Couvy-Duchesne Baptiste , O’Callaghan Victoria , Parker Richard , Mills Natalie , Kirk Katherine M , Scott Jan , Vinkhuyzen Anna , Hermens Daniel F , Lind Penelope A , Davenport Tracey A , Burns Jane M , Connell Melissa , Zietsch Brendan P , Scott James , Wright Margaret J , Medland Sarah E , McGrath John , Martin Nicholas G , Hickie Ian B , Gillespie Nathan A
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The Nineteen and Up study (19Up) assessed a range of mental health and behavioural problems and associated risk factors in a genetically informative Australian cohort of young adult twins and their non-twin siblings. As such, 19Up enables detailed investigation of genetic and environmental pathways to mental illness and substance misuse within the Brisbane Longitudinal Twin Sample (BLTS).

Participants

Twins and their non-twin siblings from Queensland, Australia; mostly from European ancestry. Data were collected between 2009 and 2016 on 2773 participants (age range 18–38, 57.8% female, 372 complete monozygotic pairs, 493 dizygotic pairs, 640 non-twin siblings, 403 singleton twins).

Findings to date

A structured clinical assessment (Composite International Diagnostic Interview) was used to collect lifetime prevalence of diagnostic statistical manual (4th edition) (DSM-IV) diagnoses of major depressive disorder, (hypo)mania, social anxiety, cannabis use disorder, alcohol use disorder, panic disorder and psychotic symptoms. Here, we further describe the comorbidities and ages of onset for these mental disorders. Notably, two-thirds of the sample reported one or more lifetime mental disorder.

In addition, the 19Up study assessed general health, drug use, work activity, education level, personality, migraine/headaches, suicidal thoughts, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomatology, sleep–wake patterns, romantic preferences, friendships, familial environment, stress, anorexia and bulimia as well as baldness, acne, asthma, endometriosis, joint flexibility and internet use.

The overlap with previous waves of the BLTS means that 84% of the 19Up participants are genotyped, 36% imaged using multimodal MRI and most have been assessed for psychological symptoms at up to four time points. Furthermore, IQ is available for 57%, parental report of ADHD symptomatology for 100% and electroencephalography for 30%.

Future plans

The 19Up study complements a phenotypically rich, longitudinal collection of environmental and psychological risk factors. Future publications will explore hypotheses related to disease onset and development across the waves of the cohort. A follow-up study at 25+years is ongoing.
Impact of a multifactorial treatment programme on clinical outcomes and cardiovascular risk estimates: a retrospective cohort study from a specialised diabetes centre in Denmark
Authors: Safai Narges , Carstensen Bendix , Vestergaard Henrik , Ridderstråle Martin
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To investigate the impact of a multifactorial treatment programme in a real-life setting on clinical outcomes and estimated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

Design

A retrospective observational cohort study, using data from the electronic medical records and national registers.

Setting

Tertiary diabetes centre in Denmark.

Participants

Patients with type 2 diabetes (n=4299) referred to a programme with focus on treatment of hyperglycaemia, hypertension and dyslipidaemia between 1 January 2001 and 1 April 2016.

Outcomes

Primary outcomes were changes in haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), blood pressure (BP) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol as well as proportion reaching treatment targets. Our secondary outcome was to investigate changes in antidiabetic, antihypertensive and lipid-lowering treatment, together with the impact on estimated CVD risk. Linear mixed model for repeated measurements were used for continuous variables and logistic regression for dichotomous variables.

Results

The patients achieved a mean±SD decrease in HbA1c, systolic and diastolic BP and LDL cholesterol of 1.0%±0.04% (10.6±0.4 mmol/mol), 6.3±0.4 mm Hg, 2.7±0.2 mm Hg and 0.32±0.02 mmol/L, respectively (p<0.0001). The proportion of patients who met the treatment goal for HbA1c(<7% (<53 mmol/mol)) increased from 31% to 58% (p<0.0001); for BP (<130/80 mm Hg) from 24% to 34% (p<0.0001), and for LDL cholesterol (<2.5 mmol/L (patients without previous CVD) or <1.8 mmol/L (patients with previous CVD)) from 52% to 65%. Those reaching all three guideline treatment targets increased from 4% to 15% (p<0.0001), and when relaxing the BP target to <140/85 from 8% to 24%. The estimated CVD risk was relatively reduced by 15.2% using the Swedish National Diabetes Register risk engine and 30.9% using the UK Prospective Diabetes Study risk engine.

Conclusions

Our data support that short-term multifactorial treatment of patients with glycaemic dysregulation in a specialist outpatient setting is both achievable and effective, and associated with a clinically meaningful improvement in CVD risk.
Patient navigators facilitating access to primary care: a scoping review
Authors: Peart Annette , Lewis Virginia , Brown Ted , Russell Grant
Published: March 2018

Objective

Patient navigators are a promising mechanism to link patients with primary care. While navigators have been used in population health promotion and prevention programmes, their impact on access to primary care is not clear. The aim of this scoping review was to examine the use of patient navigators to facilitate access to primary care and how they were defined and described, their components and the extent to which they were patient centred.

Setting and participants

We used the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review method. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, ProQuest Medical, other key databases and grey literature for studies reported in English from January 2000 to April 2016. We defined a patient navigator as a person or process creating a connection or link between a person needing primary care and a primary care provider. Our target population was people without a regular source of, affiliation or connection with primary care. Studies were included if they reported on participants who were connected to primary care by patient navigation and attended or made an appointment with a primary care provider. Data analysis involved descriptive numerical summaries and content analysis.

Results

Twenty studies were included in the final scoping review. Most studies referred to ‘patient navigator’ or ‘navigation’ as the mechanism of connection to primary care. As such, we grouped the components according to Freeman’s nine-principle framework of patient navigation. Seventeen studies included elements of patient-centred care: informed and involved patient, receptive and responsive health professionals and a coordinated, supportive healthcare environment.

Conclusions

Patient navigators may assist to connect people requiring primary care to appropriate providers and extend the concept of patient-centred care across different healthcare settings. Navigation requires further study to determine impact and cost-effectiveness and explore the experience of patients and their families.
Assessing the impact of care farms on quality of life and offending: a pilot study among probation service users in England
Authors: Elsey Helen , Farragher Tracey , Tubeuf Sandy , Bragg Rachel , Elings Marjolein , Brennan Cathy , Gold Rochelle , Shickle Darren , Wickramasekera Nyantara , Richardson Zoe , Cade Janet , Murray Jenni
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of conducting a cost-effectiveness study of using care farms (CFs) to improve quality of life and reduce reoffending among offenders undertaking community orders (COs). To pilot questionnaires to assess quality of life, connection to nature, lifestyle behaviours, health and social-care use. To assess recruitment and retention at 6 months and feasibility of data linkage to Police National Computer (PNC) reconvictions data and data held by probation services.

Design

Pilot study using questionnaires to assess quality of life, individually linked to police and probation data.

Setting

The pilot study was conducted in three probation service regions in England. Each site included a CF and at least one comparator CO project. CFs are working farms used with a range of clients, including offenders, for therapeutic purposes. The three CFs included one aquaponics and horticulture social enterprise, a religious charity focusing on horticulture and a family-run cattle farm. Comparator projects included sorting secondhand clothes and activities to address alcohol misuse and anger management.

Participants

We recruited 134 adults (over 18) serving COs in England, 29% female.

Results

52% of participants completed follow-up questionnaires. Privatisation of UK probation trusts in 2014 negatively impacted on recruitment and retention. Linkage to PNC data was a more successful means of follow-up, with 90% consenting to access their probation and PNC data. Collection of health and social-care costs and quality-adjusted life year derivation were feasible. Propensity score adjustment provided a viable comparison method despite differences between comparators. We found worse health and higher reoffending risk among CF participants due to allocation of challenging offenders to CFs, making risk of reoffending a confounder.

Conclusions

Recruitment would be feasible in a more stable probation environment. Follow-up was challenging; however, assessing reconvictions from PNC data is feasible and a potential primary outcome for future studies.
Technology-enhanced surgical education: attitudes and perceptions of the endoscopic surgery community in Turkey
Authors: Cagiltay Nergiz Ercil , Berker Mustafa
Published: March 2018

The education programme of surgery has unique problems. In this study, first, a literature review is conducted to cover the studies found in the literature reporting on the problems of surgical education. Additionally, a survey study is conducted with 31 participants, who are either currently enrolled in endoscopic surgery education programmes in Turkey or are experts in the field. Supportively semistructured individual interviews are also conducted with five participants. These data are collected to better understand the instructional methods being used, their problems and the participants’ preferred methods to be used. Additionally, the participants’ attitudes are also investigated regarding the use of new technologies to enhance the current education programmes. The results indicate that, in Turkey, surgical education programmes are still mostly offered in traditional ways while other educational methods are used in an extremely limited manner. In general, the authors emphasise that more research needs to be conducted to better understand the characteristics of the medical students and develop standards for surgical education programmes, educational tools specific for related surgical domains and guidelines for the curriculum integration. The results of this study aimed to guide the instructional system designers for the endoscopic surgery education programmes.
Don’t neglect the clock drawing test
Authors: Vinker Shuster Michal , Hannah Maayan , Todd Zalut
Published: March 2018

Introduction

A 63-year-old, right-handed woman with a history of hypertension presented to the ED with left arm paresis of 2 days duration. Three weeks before admission, she had flu-like symptoms with intermittent left arm weakness that had recovered briefly but recurred 2 days prior to her presentation. On neurological examination, GCS was 15 and cranial nerves’ function was normal. Left upper limb strength was 4/5. There was left arm drift and pronation but the patient denied noticing any difference between the positions of her arms. Hyper-reflexion was presented in the left arm. The rest of her motor, cerebellar, sensation and gait functions were normal. She was asked to draw a clock and set it to 15:30 (figure 1).

Figure 1

Clock drawing test results.

Question:

What is the most probable aetiology?

Right cerebral bleeding involving the occipital lobe

Right middle cerebral artery occlusion

Right parietal lesion, likely neoplasm

Left cortical stroke
Treating her well
Authors: Theunissen Joris M G , lameijer Heleen
Published: March 2018

Clinical introduction

A 44-year-old woman presents pain free to our ED after experiencing 45 min of tightening of the chest with radiation to her left arm, diaphoresis and nausea. Her vital signs are normal except for her high BP, which is 180/110. She reports recurrent episodes of chest pain in the past 1.5 weeks, unrelated to exercise. She visited a general practitioner who prescribed pain medication and treated her new-onset hypertension. Besides the recently found hypertension, heavy smoking is her only other traditional risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Question

What finding on figure 1 should make you concerned?

Figure 1

Initial ECG.

The U-wave in the precordial leads

The biphasic P-wave in lead I

The negative T-waves in aVR as well as aVL

The biphasic T-waves in V2 and V3
Atrial fibrillation patterns are associated with arrhythmia progression and clinical outcomes
Authors: B Schnabel Renate , Pecen Ladislav , Engler Daniel , Lucerna Markus , Sellal Jean Marc , Ojeda Francisco M , De Caterina Raffaele , Kirchhof Paulus
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Determinants of atrial fibrillation (AF) patterns and of progression of earlier forms to permanent AF, and their relationship with outcome are still poorly understood.

Methods

We examined AF patterns (paroxysmal, persistent and permanent), rate and predictors of AF progression, and outcomes in the PREFER (PREvention oF thromboembolic events-European Registry) in AF. The primary analysis was performed in the PREFER in AF prolongation dataset (n=3223 patients with AF with a complete 1-year follow-up, mean age 72±9 years, 40% women). Sensitivity analyses were performed using the PREFER in the AF study (n=6390 patients).

Results

AF progressed to more persistent types in 506 patients (17%). Permanent AF was associated with development of heart failure at 1 year (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.06 to 3.07, p=0.03) compared with paroxysmal AF, which was confirmed in the entire cohort. In multivariable-adjusted models, sinus rhythm at baseline, AF duration, cardioversion, hyperthyroidism, valvular heart disease, diabetes mellitus and heart failure were predictors of AF progression (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.60, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.63). Results were similar when we restricted analyses to patients with AF duration <1 year. AF progression showed an association with coronary events over 1 year (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.22 to 4.19, p=0.0074).

Conclusions

Permanent AF at baseline was associated with incident heart failure. A substantial proportion of well-managed patients with AF showed AF progression over 1 year. AF progression itself was not strongly related to outcome and may indicate the need to refine the current classification of AF types to enhance clinical utility.
Delayed Flow-Mediated Vasodilation and Critical Coronary Stenosis
Authors: Irace Concetta , De Rosa Salvatore , Tripolino Cesare , Ambrosio Giuseppe , Covello Caterina , Abramo Ennio , Carallo Claudio , Mongiardo Annalisa , Spaccarotella Carmen , Torella Daniele , Gnasso Agostino , Indolfi Ciro , De Rosa Salvatore , Tripolino Cesare , Ambrosio Giuseppe , Covello Caterina , Abramo Ennio , Carallo Claudio , Mongiardo Annalisa , Spaccarotella Carmen , Torella Daniele , Gnasso Agostino , Indolfi Ciro
Published: March 2018

Endothelial dysfunction, wall thickening and plaque are progressive manifestations of atherosclerosis. Delayed or absent brachial artery dilation after ischemic stimulus has been associated with severity of extracoronary and coronary atherosclerosis. In the current study, we aimed to verify if delayed or absent dilation associates with critical coronary stenosis. We also evaluated the association between coronary stenosis, carotid artery wall thickness and peripheral artery disease. Endothelial function was investigated by flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery up to 3 min after ischemia, and patients classified as early, late or no dilators. Coronary angiography was performed through transradial or femoral artery approach. Computerized quantitative angiography was used to obtain percent stenosis of all lesions, while the Gensini score was used to evaluate the severity of coronary atherosclerosis. Seventy-four patients were enrolled. Carotid wall thickness and plaque, and peripheral artery disease were detected by ultrasound. Subjects with critical coronary stenosis showed a higher prevalence of delayed or absent dilation (coronary stenosis ≥70 per cent: late dilators 50 per cent, no dilators 35 per cent; coronary stenosis ≤70 per cent: late dilators 27 per cent, no dilators 6 per cent). The Gensini score was progressively higher in late dilators and no dilators compared with early dilators (early: 4.5±13.5; late 17.5±27.1; no 39.7±55.0; P<0.02). Carotid atherosclerosis and peripheral artery disease were more prevalent in subjects with critical coronary stenosis. Delayed or absent dilation associates with coronary stenosis and different degree of coronary atherosclerosis. The kinetic of arterial dilation seems to be relevant as the magnitude of dilation.
Quantification of energy expenditure of military loaded runs: what is the performance of laboratory-based equations when applied to the field environment?
Authors: Colosio Alessandro L , Pogliaghi S
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Performance during army loaded runs provides a synthetic indicator of a soldier’s capacity to move while carrying loads and thereby remain able to execute a mission. The aim of this study was to estimate and compare the energy expenditure (EE) of army loaded runs, conducted in a field environment using laboratory-based equations and HR index (HRindex).

Methods

45 Ranger recruits had HR monitored during three loaded runs (10, 15 and 20 km) in full military equipment in the field environment. EE was calculated using reference equations (EE-Eq) and estimates of oxygen consumption based on HRindex(EE-HRindex). Correspondence between EE-Eq and EE-HRindexestimates was evaluated using a two-way analysis of variance, correlation test and Bland-Altman analysis.

Results

EE-Eq relative to time and weight was significantly higher for the 10 km (0.175±0.016) compared with 15 and 20 km (0.163±0.016 and 0.160±0.013 kcal/kg/min, not different). The overall EE-Eq increased significantly with distance (1129±59, 1703±80 and 2250±115 kcal for 10, 15 and 20 km). EE-Eq was not different from and highly correlated with EE-HRindex, with a small and non-significant bias and good precision between methods.

Conclusions

Our study provides the first comprehensive data on HR and EE during long-distance loaded army runs, in full combat equipment, in actual field conditions. Equation-based estimates of EE during these heavy-intensity activities were not significantly different from and highly correlated with HR-based estimates. This corroborates the general applicability of the predictive equations in the field environment. Furthermore, our study suggests that time-resolved HR-based estimates of EE during army runs can be used to evaluate for the effects of context specificity, individual variability and fatigue in movement economy.
Medical and surgical management of intraspecific wounds in a European beaver kit (Castor fiber)
Authors: O’Brien Michelle F , Meldrum Julia , Foster Ian
Published: March 2018

A captive European beaver (Castor fiber) kit, of approximately eight to ten weeks of age, was found in his enclosure with multiple wounds caused by intraspecific aggression. Six wounds healed quickly, while three progressed to abscessation. Severe proprioceptive deficits developed in both hindlegs as a secondary complication. A number of different antibiotics, general anaesthesia and basic physiotherapy (including range‐of‐motion exercises and hydrotherapy) were used in conjunction to treat these wounds over the following 10 months. Anti‐inflammatories were used as needed. Bacteria cultured from the infected wounds included Enterobacter cloacae, Serratia marcescens, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia liquefaciens and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. This report presents previously unreported information regarding the use and effectiveness of various medications and physiotherapy techniques in juvenile European beavers.
Electrically evoked local muscle contractions cause an increase in hippocampal BDNF
Authors: Maekawa Takahiro , Ogasawara Riki , Tsutaki Arata , Lee Kihyuk , Nakada Satoshi , Nakazato Koichi , Ishii Naokata
Published: March 2018

High-intensity exercise has recently been shown to cause an increase in brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus. Some studies have suggested that myokines secreted from contracting skeletal muscle, such as irisin (one of the truncated form of fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5)), play important roles in this process. Thus, we hypothesized that locally evoked muscle contractions may cause an increase of BDNF in the hippocampus through some afferent mechanisms. Under anesthesia, Sprague–Dawley rats were fixed on a custom-made dynamometer and their triceps surae muscles were made to maximally contract via delivery of electric stimulations of the sciatic nerve (100 Hz with 1-ms pulse and 3-s duration). Following 50 repeated maximal isometric contractions, the protein expressions of BDNF and activation of its receptor in the hippocampus significantly increased compared with the sham-operated control rats. However, the expression of both BDNF and FNDC5 within stimulated muscles did not significantly increase, nor did their serum concentrations change. These results indicate that local muscular contractions under unconsciousness can induce BDNF expression in the hippocampus. This effect may be mediated by peripheral reception of muscle contraction, but not by systemic factors.
Anticonvulsant effect of minocycline on pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure in mice: involvement of nitric oxide andN-methyl-d-aspartate receptor
Authors: Amini-Khoei Hossein , Kordjazy Nastaran , Haj-Mirzaian Arvin , Amiri Shayan , Haj-Mirzaian Arya , Shirzadian Armin , Hasanvand Amin , Balali-Dehkordi Shima , Hassanipour Mahsa , Dehpour Ahmad Reza
Published: March 2018

Anticonvulsant effects of minocycline have been explored recently. This study was designed to examine the anticonvulsant effect of acute administration of minocycline on pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in mouse considering the possible role of the nitric oxide/N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) pathway. We induced seizure using intravenous administration of pentylenetetrazole. Our results showed that acute administration of minocycline increased the seizure threshold. Furthermore, co-administration of subeffective doses of the nonselective nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor NG-l-arginine methyl ester (10 mg/kg) and the neuronal NOS inhibitor 7-nitroindazole (40 mg/kg) enhanced the anticonvulsant effect of subeffective doses of minocycline (40 mg/kg). We found that inducible NOS inhibitor aminoguanidine (100 mg/kg) had no effect on the antiseizure effect of minocycline. Moreover, l-arginine (60 mg/kg), as a NOS substrate, reduced the anticonvulsant effect of minocycline. We also demonstrated that pretreatment with the NMDA receptor antagonists ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) and MK-801 (0.05 mg/kg) increased the anticonvulsant effect of subeffective doses of minocycline. Results showed that minocycline significantly decreased the hippocampal nitrite level. Furthermore, co-administration of a neuronal NOS inhibitor like NMDA receptor antagonists augmented the effect of minocycline on the hippocampal nitrite level. In conclusion, we revealed that anticonvulsant effect of minocycline might be, at least in part, due to a decline in constitutive hippocampal nitric oxide activity as well as inhibition of NMDA receptors.
Quirky Quantifiers: Optimal Models and Complexity of Computation Tree Logic
Authors: Lück Martin
Published: March 2018

The satisfiability problem of the branching time logic CTL is studied in terms of computational complexity. Tight upper and lower bounds are provided for each temporal operator fragment. In parallel, the minimal model size is studied with a suitable notion of minimality. Thirdly, flat CTL is investigated, i.e., formulas with very low temporal operator nesting depth. A sharp dichotomy is shown in terms of complexity and minimal models: Temporal depth one has low expressive power, while temporal depth two is equivalent to full CTL.
Statistical physics when the minimum temperature is not absolute zero
Authors: Chung Won Sang , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: March 2018

In this paper, the nonzero minimum temperature is considered based on the third law of thermodynamics and existence of the minimal momentum. From the assumption of nonzero positive minimum temperature in nature, we deform the definitions of some thermodynamical quantities and investigate nonzero minimum temperature correction to the well-known thermodynamical problems.
Research on Synchronization Technology of Geological Data Acquisition System Based on NFC and Mobile Internet
Authors: Peng Shijie , Zhang Zhiting , Wu Chonglong , Liu Gang
Published: March 2018

This system effectively realizes the end-to-end data exchange and the data gathering from each terminal to the Geological Gathering Cloud (GGC). It is accomplished through QuantyML a private synchronization protocol reference SyncML and based on Json. It also provides high precision, high reliable positioning, navigation services to achieve meter level positioning through beidou navigation system and the visual data acquisition UI in the light of the mobile GIS map service technology. System integration and automation of scattered geological entities through the field investigation of the management, to facilitate the detailed description and accurate record of the collection content, provide rich data support for subsequent geological research. This paper introduces the design and realization of Mineral Information Acquisition System (MIAS), emphatically introduces the design principle QuantyML protocol based on Json and its implementation details.
Lipschitz solutions of initial boundary value problems for balance laws
Authors: Gugat Martin , Ulbrich Stefan
Published: March 2018

The flow of gas through networks of pipes can be modeled by the isothermal Euler equations and algebraic node conditions that model the flow through the vertices of the network graph. This motivates our analysis of the well-posedness of a coupled system of [Formula: see text] conservation laws on a network. We consider initial data and control functions that are Lipschitz continuous and compatible with the node and boundary conditions. We show the existence of semi-global Lipschitz continuous solutions of the initial boundary value problem on a network. The construction of the solution is based upon a fixed point iteration along the characteristic curves. The solutions of the initial boundary value problem on arbitrary networks satisfy a maximum principle in terms of the Riemann invariants that states that the maximum of the absolute values is attained for the initial or the boundary data.
Center-of-Mass-Based Grasp Pose Adaptation Using 3D Range and Force/Torque Sensing
Authors: Kanoulas Dimitrios , Lee Jinoh , Caldwell Darwin G. , Tsagarakis Nikos G.
Published: March 2018

Lifting objects, whose mass may produce high wrist torques that exceed the hardware strength limits, could lead to unstable grasps or serious robot damage. This work introduces a new Center-of-Mass (CoM)-based grasp pose adaptation method, for picking up objects using a combination of exteroceptive 3D perception and proprioceptive force/torque sensor feedback. The method works in two iterative stages to provide reliable and wrist torque efficient grasps. Initially, a geometric object CoM is estimated from the input range data. In the first stage, a set of hand-size handle grasps are localized on the object and the closest to its CoM is selected for grasping. In the second stage, the object is lifted using a single arm, while the force and torque readings from the sensor on the wrist are monitored. Based on these readings, a displacement to the new CoM estimation is calculated. The object is released and the process is repeated until the wrist torque effort is minimized. The advantage of our method is the blending of both exteroceptive (3D range) and proprioceptive (force/torque) sensing for finding the grasp location that minimizes the wrist effort, potentially improving the reliability of the grasping and the subsequent manipulation task. We experimentally validate the proposed method by executing a number of tests on a set of objects that include handles, using the humanoid robot WALK-MAN.
Empirically Testing Factors Increasing Manufacturing Product Innovation Success
Authors: Guimaraes Tor , Paranjape Ketan , Cornick Mike , Armstrong Curtis P.
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Important determinants of new product development success fall into five main areas encompassing strategic leadership, competitive intelligence, management of technology, specific characteristics of the company's innovation process, and the company's absorptive capacity to use available knowledge to produce and commercialize new products. Unfortunately the existing knowledge on each of these five areas is not being shared by researchers in the other areas, thus the models are focused on the particular research area. This study tests these constructs as a set of determinants of product innovation success.

Design/methodology/approach: A field test using a mailed questionnaire to collect a relatively large sample of manufacturing companies has been used to test the proposed model. To eliminate possible multicollinearity among the independent variables, a multivariate regression analysis was used.

Findings: The results provide clear evidence about the importance of competitive intelligence, strategic leadership, competitive intelligence, management of technology, specific characteristics of the company's innovation process, and company absorptive capacity with company success in new product development.

Research limitation/implications: Despite the relatively broad scope of the proposed model, other factors may also be important and should be included in future studies.

Practical implications: The items used for measuring the main constructs provide further and more specific insights into how managers should go about developing these areas within their organizations.

Originality/value: While the study is grounded in the literature of what until now have been five separate areas of knowledge, it proposed a unique integrated model for these areas important to new product development.
Merger and Takeover Attempts in Taiwanese Party Politics
Authors: FELL DAFYDD
Published: March 2018

Taiwan has experienced a number of party splits and attempted mergers since democratization. These have played a critical role in the development of the country’s party system. While a number of studies have looked at the emergence of Taiwan’s splinter parties, party mergers have not received academic attention. This study aims to systematically examine the process of party mergers and takeovers. We examine four cases of attempted mergers and takeovers. In each case, we focus the analysis around three core questions: (1) How should we best classify the actual outcomes? (2) How we can best explain the variation in outcomes? (3) How can we assess the success of merger/takeover attempts? Unlike earlier studies, we examine a variety of merger outcomes rather than just successful cases. In addition to mergers, we propose the terms negotiated takeovers and hostile takeovers. Our classification scheme is based on relative party power and the inter-party relationship. To explain the variation in outcome, we applied a framework stressing the interplay of contextual, inter-party and inner-party factors. We found key contextual variables were electoral results, relative party sizes and the electoral system. The most important inter-party variables were ideological proximity and inter-party trust following successful cooperation. Lastly, the inner-party balance of power was also critical, particularly, the strength of leaders with favorable attitudes toward the merger project. We assess the success and failure of merger/takeover attempts with reference to election results, post-merger party unity and whether the post-takeover relationship was cooperative.
A Paleozoic-sourced oil play in the Jura Mountains of France and Switzerland
Authors: Pullan C. P. , Berry M.
Published: March 2018

The Jura region of France and Switzerland has significant hydrocarbon potential. This arcuate fold-and-thrust belt, located in front of the Western Alps, is composed of Mesozoic rocks, which overlie the North Swiss Basin Complex filled with Permo-Carboniferous sediments of Late Westphalian–Lower Permian (Autunian) age. The existence of three small producing gas fields, and the presence of recorded oil and gas shows in a number of petroleum wells, indicate the presence of an active petroleum system. Shows occur in stratigraphic horizons that lie beneath the regional Triassic evaporite seal. Very effective Permo-Carboniferous oil-prone source rocks include algal organically rich Autunian shale beds and Stephanian-aged bituminous shales. Carboniferous and Permian coals are also present, which would be excellent sources of gas. The primary reservoir target is the fluviatile Triassic Bunter Sandstone Formation, which is widely developed across the area and thickens to the NE. Reservoir quality is best developed in the cleaner channel sands. The La Chandelière oil field, discovered in 1989 by Exxon, is crucial evidence of the oil potential and trapping mechanism. Geochemical analysis demonstrates that the 41° API oil at La Chandelière is derived from Lower Permian Autunian shales. The trapping mechanism, interpreted from seismic and confirmed by structural modelling, is that of an unreactivated Mesozoic-aged structural high bounded by thrust faults, resulting in a large-scale rollover within the core of the structure. This combination of critical elements sets up the Paleozoic-sourced oil play within the Jura Mountains of France and Switzerland.

The Jura is not generally regarded as a major petroleum province. It is a region of complex structuring and mountainous terrain. Switzerland, a country renowned for its beautiful mountain scenery, has no major oil and gas discoveries. However, this poorly explored region has active petroleum systems with good hydrocarbon shows and a number of small gas fields demonstrating hydrocarbon generation. Good-quality source rocks and excellent reservoir development have been proven by drilling, and seismic interpretation has demonstrated the existence of large closures at reservoir level. The La Chandelière oil discovery, in the French Jura, proves the presence of a Paleozoic-sourced oil play.
Fibroblast growth factor 23 does not directly influence skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation or ex vivo muscle contractility
Authors: Avin Keith G. , Vallejo Julian A. , Chen Neal X. , Wang Kun , Touchberry Chad D. , Brotto Marco , Dallas Sarah L. , Moe Sharon M. , Wacker Michael J.
Published: March 2018

Skeletal muscle dysfunction accompanies the clinical disorders of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hereditary hypophosphatemic rickets. In both disorders, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a bone-derived hormone regulating phosphate and vitamin D metabolism, becomes chronically elevated. FGF23 has been shown to play a direct role in cardiac muscle dysfunction; however, it is unknown whether FGF23 signaling can also directly induce skeletal muscle dysfunction. We found expression of potential FGF23 receptors ( Fgfr1–4) and α-Klotho in muscles of two animal models (CD-1 and Cy/+ rat, a naturally occurring rat model of chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder) as well as C2C12 myoblasts and myotubes. C2C12 proliferation, myogenic gene expression, oxidative stress marker 8-OHdG, intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i), and ex vivo contractility of extensor digitorum longus (EDL) or soleus muscles were assessed after treatment with various amounts of FGF23. FGF23 (2–100 ng/ml) did not alter C2C12 proliferation, expression of myogenic genes, or oxidative stress after 24- to 72-h treatment. Acute or prolonged FGF23 treatment up to 6 days did not alter C2C12 [Ca2+]i handling, nor did acute treatment with FGF23 (9–100 ng/ml) affect EDL and soleus muscle contractility. In conclusion, although skeletal muscles express the receptors involved in FGF23-mediated signaling, in vitro FGF23 treatments failed to directly alter skeletal muscle development or function under the conditions tested. We hypothesize that other endogenous substances may be required to act in concert with FGF23 or apart from FGF23 to promote muscle dysfunction in hereditary hypophosphatemic rickets and CKD.