bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lean production of ship-pipe parts based on lot-sizing optimization and PFB control strategy
Authors: Zhou Fuli , Ma Panpan , He Yandong , Pratap Saurabh , Yu Peng , Yang Biyu
Published: July 2020

Purpose

With an increasingly fierce competition of the shipbuilding industry, advanced technologies and excellent management philosophies in the manufacturing industry are gradually introduced to domestic shipyards. The purpose of this study is to promote the lean management of Chinese ship outfitting plants by lean production strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

To promote the lean implementation of Chinese shipyards, the lean practice of ship-pipe part production is highlighted by lot-sizing optimization and strategic CONWIP (constant work-in-process) control. A nonlinear programming model is formulated to minimize the total cost of ship-pipe part manufacturing and the particle swarm optimization (PSO)-based algorithm is designed to resolve the established model. Besides, the pull-from-the-bottleneck (PFB) strategy is used to control ship-pipe part production, verified by Simulink simulation.

Findings

Results show that the proposed lean strategy of the programming model and strategic PFB control could assist Chinese ship outfitting plants to leverage competitive advantage by waste reduction and lean achievement. Specifically, the PFB double-loop control strategy shows better performance when there is high productivity and the PFB single-loop control outperforms at lower productivity scenarios.

Practical implications

To verify the effectiveness of the proposed lean strategy, a case study is performed to validate the formulated model. Also, simulation experiments realized by FlexSim software are conducted to testify results obtained by the constructed programming model.

Originality/value

Lean production management practice of the shipyard building industry is performed by the proposed lean production strategy through lot-sizing optimization and strategic PFB control in terms of ship-pipe part manufacturing.
The impact of knowledge on e-health: a systematic literature review of the advanced systems
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Mehdi , Ahmed Omed Hassan , Ehsani Ali , Ahmed Aram Mahmood , Hama Hawkar Kamaran , Vo Bay
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Economists have recognized knowledge management as a promising tool regarding all aspects of the economy, including health care. The volume of biomedical literature is currently growing at an exponential rate, and the vast number of studies makes it extremely difficult for researchers to keep up with new developments in their research areas. Therefore, the efficient management of huge amounts of data and the accuracy of the knowledge thus obtained are vital concerns. Electronic health (e-health) has emerged as a useful concept to provide data for solo self-care management. Although health care is a common topic on the internet, patients rarely share their health care-related knowledge on social media. This study aims to examine the impact of knowledge on e-health.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper complies with the methodological requirements of systematic literature reviews. The present paper has investigated the newest systems and studied their practical techniques in detail. The effects of knowledge on e-health have been categorized into major groups.

Findings

The outcomes indicate that the capabilities of information and communication technology certainly promote the exchange of knowledge within clinics. The results also show that institutional architectures have significant impacts on knowledge-sharing exercises, significantly improving patient safety.

Practical implications

These findings will be essential in the understanding of the interplay among various signals in theory and in the understanding of patients’ choice in the e-health community in practice. The results have implications for existing health management and e-health literature. The present paper will help policymakers, health-care executives and project managers to effectively set their operations and make them maintainable, prevent unpredicted obstacles and better allocate their resources. Overall, the results of this paper will guide researchers who are working in the field of e-health.

Originality/value

E-health attempts have mostly focused on answering questions using context-specific technical answers, regardless of the key role of knowledge resources. The present paper has provided an innovative viewpoint on how knowledge resources and knowledge-sharing initiatives may have a role in the innovative work behaviors shown by health-care employees. As noted before, there have been only a few studies regarding the effects of knowledge on health care, so the present paper contributes to the previous literature, particularly about e-health.
An actor–network theory perspective for “Lean” interventions in manufacturing firms
Authors: Abdallah Salam , Malik Mohsin , Chaudhry Uzma
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper tracks the network of actors participating in the initial implementation of a “Lean management” system, in order to identify associations between human and non-human participants conducive to successful adoption of the system.

Design/methodology/approach

The perspective of actor–network theory (ANT) helps reveal the complex dynamics at play in a “Lean” intervention at a manufacturing firm. It allows to identify key actors (human and non-human), as well as the possible associations between them, and helps produce network diagrams to track the changes in actors' roles and in network coherence over time.

Findings

Through a network analysis, the study charts the complexity of the process of Lean intervention, by accounting for the distinct possibility that actors' roles may shift over time, as they engage and disengage with the proposed intervention, until they fully cohere into a new system. Based on this, it derives a conceptual model to describe relevant factors for successful implementation of Lean improvement projects.

Originality/value

The ANT perspective affords new insights into Lean Management systems implementation, by highlighting associations between human and non–human actors. This novel focus suggests corresponding management guidelines and reflective practices for successful intervention.
Hollywood experts: A field analysis of knowledge production in American entertainment television
Authors: Khitrov Arsenii
Published: July 2020

How can we make sense of numerous instances of experts in politics, law enforcement, national security, military defense, fire arms, public health, culture, and history working closely with creators of scripted television series in the USA today? Why do TV makers need them? Why and how do these experts come to Hollywood? In order to answer these questions, I carried out a Bourdieusian field analysis of contemporary American TV series production, with a focus on how knowledge about political and social issues is produced and used in the TV industry. I identify four major expertise providers—the state, social movements, research organizations, and independent experts—and build a macro model of expertise exchange in the field of Hollywood TV. I argue that expertise in Hollywood is a form of capital which Hollywood professionals exchange for symbolic capital within the industry and in the field of power; it is also a form of capital that agents of the state, social movements, and research organizations exchange for symbolic capital in the field of power; and finally, independent experts trade their knowledge to accumulate economic and symbolic capital within the industry. This model is based on the analysis of data I collected during fieldwork in Los Angeles over 10 months in 2017–2019, which includes 159 interviews, 7 observation sessions, and archival materials.
A Note: Reducing Cropland Abandonment in China – Do Agricultural Cooperatives Play a Role?
Authors: Ma Wanglin , Zhu Zhongkun
Published: July 2020

Cropland abandonment occurring both nationally and globally threatens food security and environmental sustainability. We explore whether agricultural cooperatives help reduce cropland abandonment, using data collected from 5,593 households in 229 villages in China. By estimating a two‐stage residual inclusion approach, we provide evidence that the existence of agricultural cooperatives in rural villages reduces the probability of cropland abandonment and the abandonment ratio. Further analysis shows that cooperative effects on cropland abandonment and the abandonment ratio are heterogeneous across geographic locations.
Randomized controlled trial of social interaction police training
Authors: McLean Kyle , Wolfe Scott E. , Rojek Jeff , Alpert Geoffrey P. , Smith Michael R.
Published: July 2020

Research Summary

We conducted a randomized‐controlled trial (RCT) of a social interaction training program to determine its effectiveness in improving attitudes and behaviors among police officers. Survey data and a series of difference‐in‐difference tests found that participating in the training program improved attitudes with treatment group officers placing higher priorities on procedurally fair communication during a hypothetical officer–citizen encounter. An interrupted time‐series analysis of official use‐of‐force reports provided no evidence that the training program altered officer behavior.

Policy Implications

Policing scholars and reformers have increasingly called for improvements to police training that emphasize communication and de‐escalation skills. Although many programs addressing these issues exist, evidence of their effectiveness has been scarce. Our findings provide evidence that such training may improve police officer attitudes but perhaps not behaviors.
Enzymatic production of trans‐4‐hydroxy‐l‐proline by proline 4‐hydroxylase
Authors: Chen Xiulai , Yi Juyang , Liu Jia , Luo Qiuling , Liu Liming
Published: July 2020

Trans‐4‐hydroxy‐l‐proline (Hyp) is a useful chiral building block for production of many nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals. However, it is still challenging for industrial production of Hyp due to heavy environmental pollution and low production efficiency. To establish a green and efficient process for Hyp production, the proline 4‐hydroxylase (DsP4H) from Dactylosporangium sp. RH1 was overexpressed and functionally characterized in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). The recombinant DsP4H with l‐proline as a substrate exhibited Km, kcat and kcat/Km values up to 0.80 mM, 0.52 s−1 and 0.65 s−1·mM−1 respectively. Furthermore, DsP4H showed the highest activity at 35°C and pH 6.5 towards l‐proline. The highest enzyme activity of 175.6 U mg−1 was achieved by optimizing culture parameters. Under the optimal transformation conditions in a 5‐l fermenter, Hyp titre, conversion rate and productivity were up to 99.9 g l−1, 99.9% and 2.77 g l−1 h−1 respectively. This strategy described here provides an efficient method for production of Hyp and thus has a great potential in industrial application.
Genetic structure and insecticide resistance characteristics of fall armyworm populations invading China
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Bo , Zheng Weigang , Liu Conghui , Zhang Dandan , Zhao Shengyuan , Li Zaiyuan , Xu Pengjun , Wilson Kenneth , Withers Amy , Jones Christopher M. , Smith Judith A. , Chipabika Gilson , Kachigamba Donald L. , Nam Kiwoong , d’Alençon Emmanuelle , Liu Bei , Liang Xinyue , Jin Minghui , Wu Chao , Chakrabarty Swapan , Yang Xianming , Jiang Yuying , Liu Jie , Liu Xiaolin , Quan Weipeng , Wang Guirong , Fan Wei , Qian Wanqiang , Wu Kongming , Xiao Yutao
Published: July 2020

The rapid wide‐scale spread of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) has caused serious crop losses globally. However, differences in the genetic background of subpopulations and the mechanisms of rapid adaptation behind the invasion are still not well understood. Here we report the assembly of a 390.38‐Mb chromosome‐level genome of fall armyworm derived from south‐central Africa using Pacific Bioscience (PacBio) and Hi‐C sequencing technologies, with scaffold N50 of 12.9 Mb and containing 22,260 annotated protein‐coding genes. Genome‐wide resequencing of 103 samples and strain identification were conducted to reveal the genetic background of fall armyworm populations in China. Analysis of genes related to pesticide‐ and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) resistance showed that the risk of fall armyworm developing resistance to conventional pesticides is very high. Laboratory bioassay results showed that insects invading China carry resistance to organophosphate and pyrethroid pesticides, but are sensitive to genetically modified maize expressing the Bt toxin Cry1Ab in field experiments. Additionally, two mitochondrial fragments were found to be inserted into the nuclear genome, with the insertion event occurring after the differentiation of the two strains. This study represents a valuable advance toward improving management strategies for fall armyworm.
Testicular microlithiasis on scrotal ultrasound in 4850 young men from the general population: associations with semen quality
Authors: Anvari Aria Sheida , Nordström Joensen Ulla , Bang Anne Kirstine , Priskorn Lærke , Nordkap Loa , Andersson Anna‐Maria , Jørgensen Niels
Published: July 2020

Background

Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is sometimes found on scrotal ultrasound. The prevalence seems higher in populations of men with testicular dysfunction, and TM may be a risk factor for testicular germ cell neoplasia in situ in men with additional risk factors. The association between TM and testicular function is controversial, especially in incidentally found TM.

Objectives

To determine the frequency of TM in young men from the general population, and associations between TM, semen quality, and reproductive hormones.

Materials and methods

A cross‐sectional study of 4850 Danish men, median age 19 years. Testicular pattern, including the presence of TM, was assessed by ultrasound examination. Participants provided a questionnaire, one semen sample, and one blood sample. Semen variables and serum reproductive hormones were analyzed as outcomes using multivariable regression analysis to determine associations with TM.

Results

TM was detected in 53 men (1%), of which 19 (36%) were unilateral and 34 (64%) were bilateral cases. A history of cryptorchidism was associated with presence of TM. Bilateral TM was associated with slightly lower testicular volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count. TM was not significantly associated with serum testosterone or other reproductive hormones.

Discussion and Conclusion

TM is rare in men from the general population and is associated with lower sperm count if bilateral, although effect sizes were small. Current European guidelines do not recommend any follow‐up in cases of TM with no other risk factors for testicular cancer. We suggest that men with incidentally found bilateral TM may be offered a semen analysis, but analysis of reproductive hormones seems unnecessary.
Perioperative risk factors in surgical lung biopsy for the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease: a single‐centre experience
Authors: Yi Eunjue , Lee Jeong Hyeon , Lee Jun Hee , Chung Jae Ho , Lee Youngseok , Lee Sungho
Published: July 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate mortality and morbidity after surgical lung biopsy in patients with interstitial lung diseases and to investigate perioperative risk factors for complications.

Methods

A total of 132 enrolled patients were divided into three groups: group 1 (70), patients with operation scheduled before admission; group 2 (48), patients with operation determined after medical therapy; and group 3 (14), patients with emergent operation followed by steroid therapy. Complications were classified according to the Clavien–Dindo system. The 30‐ and 90‐day mortality and complication rates were evaluated, and perioperative risk factors were investigated.

Results

Overall complication rate was 19.7%. The 30‐ and 90‐day in‐hospital mortality rates were 1.5% and 3.0%, respectively. Complication rates more than grade II were significantly different between the three groups (P = 0.045). Patients in group 1 revealed only class I or II complications and no mortalities. Elevated oxygen demand after operation was an independent risk factor for any complications, complications more than class II and any events (P < 0.001, P = 0.042 and P < 0.001, respectively). The New York Heart Association Functional Classification (NYHA) class IV was a statistically significant risk factor for any complications (P = 0.036, odds ratio 7.93). Higher NYHA class (III and IV) showed significantly higher risk in occurrence of any events after lung biopsy.

Conclusion

Prepared surgical lung biopsy for interstitial lung disease is feasible with reasonable morbidity. Higher NYHA class and elevated oxygen demand after the surgery could imply post‐operative outcomes. Alternative diagnostic methods such as transbronchial biopsy or bronchoalveolar lavage should be considered prior to surgical lung biopsy especially in high‐risk patients.
Growing into “Us”: Trajectories of Social Identification with College Sport Teams Predict Subjective Well‐Being
Authors: Graupensperger Scott , Panza Michael J. , Budziszewski Ross , Evans M. Blair
Published: July 2020

Background

Groups are often a source of social identification that may elicit subjective well‐being. When joining and maintaining membership of groups such as sport clubs, it is anticipated that members will experience varying trajectories of identification strength, but it is unclear how these trajectories may relate to well‐being.

Method

Participants were 697 college students (64% female), nested within 35 club‐level sport teams. The current study longitudinally assessed students’ social identification with sport teams at three timepoints (3‐month lags) across a school year to examine the extent that growth trajectories in identification strength predicted indices of well‐being (i.e. life satisfaction, happiness, and subjective health) at the end of the school year.

Results

Multilevel latent growth modeling revealed that end‐of‐year well‐being was positively predicted by social identification intercepts (b = .24, p = .010) and growth trajectories (b = .75, p < .001). Accounting for baseline identification, steeper increases in social identification (upward trajectories) predicted greater well‐being.

Conclusions

Findings support established theory that social identification relates to well‐being, while adding novel insights that students may experience unique benefits when their social identity strengthens over the course of a school year. Considering recent declines in college student well‐being, groups like sport teams represent a source for social identification that should be fostered throughout the course of one’s group membership.
Forecasting the milk yield of cows on farms equipped with automatic milking system with the use of decision trees
Authors: Piwczyński Dariusz , Sitkowska Beata , Kolenda Magdalena , Brzozowski Marcin , Aerts Joanna , Schork Pamela M.
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this paper was to utilize the decision trees technique to determine the factors responsible for high monthly milk yield in Polish Holstein‐Friesian cows from 27 herds equipped with milking robots. The applied statistical method—the decision tree technique—showed that the most important factors responsible for monthly milk yield of dairy cows using robots were, in descending order of importance: milking frequency, lactation number, month of milking, and type of lying stall. At the same time, it has been ascertained that the highest monthly milk yield (47.24 kg) can be expected from multiparous cows kept in barns with a deep bedding that were milked more frequently than three times per day. On the other hand, the lowest milk production (13.56 kg) was observed among dairy cows milked less frequently than two times a day, with an average number of milked quarters lower than 3.97. The application of the decision trees technique allows a breeder to select appropriate levels of environmental factors and parameters that will help to ensure maximized milk production.
Controlled evaluation of a multimodal system to improve oral presentation skills in a real learning setting
Authors: Ochoa Xavier , Dominguez Federico
Published: July 2020

Developing oral presentation skills requires both practice and expert feedback. Several systems have been developed during the last 20 years to provide ample practice opportunities and automated feedback for novice presenters. However, a comprehensive literature review discovered that none of those systems have been adequately evaluated in real learning settings. This work is the first randomised controlled evaluation of the impact that one of these systems has in developing oral presentation skills during a real semester‐long learning activity with 180 students. The main findings are that (1) the development of different dimensions of the oral presentations are not affected equally by the automated feedback and (2) there is a small but statistically significant effect of the use of the tool when a subsequent presentation is evaluated by a human expert.
Multimodal learning analytics for game‐based learning
Authors: Emerson Andrew , Cloude Elizabeth B. , Azevedo Roger , Lester James
Published: July 2020

A distinctive feature of game‐based learning environments is their capacity to create learning experiences that are both effective and engaging. Recent advances in sensor‐based technologies such as facial expression analysis and gaze tracking have introduced the opportunity to leverage multimodal data streams for learning analytics. Learning analytics informed by multimodal data captured during students’ interactions with game‐based learning environments hold significant promise for developing a deeper understanding of game‐based learning, designing game‐based learning environments to detect maladaptive behaviors and informing adaptive scaffolding to support individualized learning. This paper introduces a multimodal learning analytics approach that incorporates student gameplay, eye tracking and facial expression data to predict student posttest performance and interest after interacting with a game‐based learning environment, Crystal Island. We investigated the degree to which separate and combined modalities (ie, gameplay, facial expressions of emotions and eye gaze) captured from students (n = 65) were predictive of student posttest performance and interest after interacting with Crystal Island. Results indicate that when predicting student posttest performance and interest, models utilizing multimodal data either perform equally well or outperform models utilizing unimodal data. We discuss the synergistic effects of combining modalities for predicting both student interest and posttest performance. The findings suggest that multimodal learning analytics can accurately predict students’ posttest performance and interest during game‐based learning and hold significant potential for guiding real‐time adaptive scaffolding.
Molecular testing of chronic myeloid leukaemia in low resource areas
Authors: Radich Jerald
Published: July 2020

Most cancer cases occur in areas of low resources. The diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of cancers is especially challenging in these locations. Unique partnerships exist between non‐profit organisations and pharmaceutical companies to provide free drugs to CML patients throughout the world if the diagnosis can be rigorously and unambiguously established. But there lies the rub: How do you perform molecular diagnostics in areas where even electricity is unreliable? Here we describe the evolution of testing patients from low resource areas, which, when merged with a remarkable effort to bring tyrosine kinase inhibitors to patients across the globe, have led to survival outcomes similar to cases in industrialised countries.
A nuclear lncRNA Linc00839 as a Myc target to promote breast cancer chemoresistance via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Qi , Shen Huiling , Zhu Xiaolan , Liu Yueqin , Yang Hui , Chen Hui , Xiong Shangwan , Chi Huamao , Xu Wenlin
Published: July 2020

Chemoresistance has become a leading cause of mortality in breast cancer patients and is one of the major obstacles for improving the clinical outcome. Long noncoding RNAs play important roles in breast cancer tumorigenesis and chemoresistance. However, the involvement and regulation of lncRNAs in breast cancer chemoresistance are not completely understood. Here, we reported that Linc00839 was localized in the nucleus and upregulated in chemoresistant breast cancer cells and tissues, and high level of Linc00839 was associated with a poor prognosis. Knockdown of Linc00839 significantly suppressed proliferation, invasion, and migration, sensitized cells to paclitaxel in vitro and inhibited transplant tumor development in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that Myc could directly bind to the promoter region of Linc00839 and activate its transcription. Furthermore, Linc00839 overexpression increased the expression of Myc and the RNA‐binding protein Lin28B and activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. We also discovered that Lin28B positively interacted with Linc00839 and was upregulated in breast cancer tissues. Taken together, for the first time, we showed that Linc00839 was activated by Myc and promoted proliferation and chemoresistance in breast cancer through binding with Lin28B. These findings provide new insight into the regulatory mechanism of Linc00839 and propose a Myc/Linc00839/Lin28B feedback loop that could be used as a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer.
Biological mesh reconstruction versus primary closure for preventing perineal morbidity after extralevator abdominoperineal excision: a multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Sancho‐Muriel J. , Ocaña J. , Cholewa H. , Nuñez J. , Muñoz P. , Flor B. , García J. C. , García‐Granero E. , Die J. , Frasson M.
Published: July 2020

Aim

The aim of the study was to compare the incidence of perineal hernia and the perineal wound morbidity following extralevator abdominoperineal excision (ELAPE) between two groups – primary perineal closure and reconstruction with a biological mesh.

Method

One hundred and forty‐seven consecutive patients who underwent ELAPE for primary rectal cancer between January 2007 and December 2018 in two tertiary referral centres were retrospectively identified from prospective databases. Perineal closure was carried out via primary closure or with a biological mesh (porcine dermal collagen mesh). Outcome measures were perineal hernia and perineal wound morbidity (infection, dehiscence, persistent sinus and chronic pain).

Results

A total of 139 patients were included in the study. A prophylactic mesh was used in 80 (57.5%) and primary closure was practised in 59 (42.4%) patients. The median follow‐up was 30 (interquartile range 46.88) months. Thirty patients (21.6%) developed perineal hernia. No significant differences were found between prophylactic mesh and primary closure (16.3% vs 23.3%, P = 0.07). The median period between surgery and hernia diagnosis was 8 months in the primary closure group and 24 months in the mesh group (P < 0.01). Perineal wound morbidity was significantly higher in the prophylactic mesh group (55% vs 33.9%, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In our study, the use of a biological mesh did not reduce the rate of perineal hernia, although it did delay its appearance. Perineal closure using a biological mesh may increase perineal morbidity, both acute and chronic.
Increasing experience of modified two‐stage transanal ileal pouch–anal anastomosis for therapy refractory ulcerative colitis. What have we learned? A retrospective analysis on 75 consecutive cases at a tertiary referral hospital
Authors: Bislenghi G. , Martin‐Perez B. , Fieuws S. , Wolthuis A. , D'Hoore A.
Published: July 2020

Aim

Ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) should be delayed to a second stage in patients with ulcerative colitis and prolonged exposure to medical therapy. However, there is still discussion about whether a modified two‐stage approach is preferable to a three‐stage approach. Recently, a transanal approach has been introduced to overcome the well‐known difficulties of laparoscopic pelvic surgery. This paper presents short‐term outcomes of transanal IPAA (Ta‐IPAA) according to a modified two‐stage approach.

Methods

Data from all patients who underwent a modified two‐stage Ta‐IPAA for ulcerative colitis refractory to medical therapy were retrieved retrospectively from a prospective database. A comprehensive complication index was used for 90‐day postoperative complications. Conversion, duration of surgery, hospital stay and reoperation were considered. A logistic regression model was used to assess risk factors for peri‐pouch sepsis.

Results

Seventy‐five (68.8%) patients were identified from 109 consecutive IPAAs. Median operation time was 159 min. Conversion rate was 4%. Mean comprehensive complication index was 7. All anastomotic leaks (10.6%) were treated with diverting ileostomy. Additionally, active rescue with transanal drainage and early resuturing of the anastomotic gap was performed in six patients. Ileostomy closure occurred after a median period of 5.4 months. At univariable analysis, factors associated with peri‐pouch sepsis were male gender and age at IPAA construction.

Conclusions

A modified two‐stage Ta‐IPAA is safe and feasible. Standardization and reproducibility of the technique are reflected in few conversions and intra‐operative complications. Finally, morbidity and anastomotic leak do not differ from those reported in previous Ta‐IPAA series with a variable proportion of multistage procedures.
Analysis of real‐time heartbeat monitoring using wearable device Internet of Things system in sports environment
Authors: Wang Zhonghua , Gao Zhonghe
Published: July 2020

Technology in the field of Internet of Things (IoT) with smartphones is enormously growing at a rapid pace for assisting people with their health conditions. Wearable sensors can provide real time data in the field of sports for monitoring the heartbeat of the athletes which can assist in physical activities. Heartbeat rate of the players change during different positions while playing sports and heartbeat monitoring will help the players to know the health condition thus improving the health of an individual. In this research, we propose a new method of wearable sensor device for collecting real time data of athletes using IoT‐based system for monitoring electrocardiogram (ECG) patterns along with acceleration of body using smart phone and classify the obtained data using Radial‐basis Function Network and Levenberg‐Marquardt with Probabilistic Neural Network. The experimental setup of the proposed model performed using 100 persons and effectively classifies the data and predicts the heart rate with the precision of validation and training sample being 73.58% and 73.45 respectively. Thus the proposed IoT‐based prediction system can be used to monitor health data of the athletes in real time as an alternate solution for monitoring physical health of the athletes.
The psychosocial experience and needs of children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes from their own perspective: a systematic and narrative review
Authors: DeCosta P. , Grabowski D. , Skinner T. C.
Published: July 2020

Aim

To understand the psychosocial experience of children and identify their primary support needs following a type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

Methods

A systematic review and narrative synthesis of the literature in this area was conducted.

Results

A total of 32 studies were included in the review. At diagnosis, the majority of children experienced high distress, including grief, anxiety, anger, irritation and injection anxiety. The intensity of this reaction decreased rapidly over the following weeks. At diagnosis, rates of depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress disorders and suicidal ideation were elevated. The initial reaction tended to peak shortly after diagnosis and declined over the following year. Thereafter, symptoms of depression and anxiety appeared to increase once again, corresponding with the children’s experience of diabetes management and implications as being more difficult and upsetting. Injection anxiety, distress and depressive symptoms persisted for a smaller group of children.

Conclusion

The initial high prevalence of depressive symptoms following diagnosis is transitional and should be regarded as a normal adaptive response. To facilitate this adaptive process, specific child‐centred support should be prioritized as an integrated part of early diabetes care. Our findings point to five inter‐related support needs following a type 1 diabetes diagnosis: (1) children need time to adjust to the diagnosis; (2) children need supportive relationships; (3) children need an opportunity for meaningful participation and appropriate protection; (4) children need to engage and explore; and (5) children need to feel supported, but not different.
Evidence for the evolution of thermal tolerance, but not desiccation tolerance, in response to hotter, drier city conditions in a cosmopolitan, terrestrial isopod
Authors: Yilmaz Aaron R. , Diamond Sarah E. , Martin Ryan A.
Published: July 2020

Cities are often hotter and drier compared with nearby undeveloped areas, but how organisms respond to these multifarious stressors associated with urban heat islands is largely unknown. Terrestrial isopods are especially susceptible to temperature and aridity stress as they have retained highly permeable gills from their aquatic ancestors. We performed a two temperature common garden experiment with urban and rural populations of the terrestrial isopod, Oniscus asellus, to uncover evidence for plastic and evolutionary responses to urban heat islands. We focused on physiological tolerance traits including tolerance of heat, cold, and desiccation. We also examined body size responses to urban heat islands, as size can modulate physiological tolerances. We found that different mechanisms underlie responses to urban heat islands. While evidence suggests urban isopods may have evolved higher heat tolerance, urban and rural isopods had statistically indistinguishable cold and desiccation tolerances. In both populations, plasticity to warmer rearing temperature diminished cold tolerance. Although field‐collected urban and rural isopods were the same size, rearing temperature positively affected body size. Finally, larger size improved desiccation tolerance, which itself was influenced by rearing temperature. Our study demonstrates how multifarious changes associated with urban heat islands will not necessarily contribute to contemporary evolution in each of the corresponding physiological traits.
Midlife Children's and Older Mothers' Depressive Symptoms: Empathic Mother–Child Relationships as a Key Moderator
Authors: Polenick Courtney A. , Kim Yijung , DePasquale Nicole , Birditt Kira S. , Zarit Steven H. , Fingerman Karen L.
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the link between midlife children's and older mothers' depressive symptoms, whether this link is exacerbated in highly empathic mother–child relationships (i.e., shared strong feelings of being loved, cared for, and understood in the mother–child tie), and whether these associations vary by children's gender.

Background

Empathic mother–child relationships in later life may intensify the link between midlife children's and older mothers' depressive symptoms. Yet little is known about the emotional implications of the mother–child tie for midlife daughters and sons.

Method

The sample included 234 midlife children (M = 49.75 years) and their mothers (M = 75.27 years) from Wave 1 of the Family Exchanges Study. Linear regressions were estimated to determine the link between midlife children's and older mothers' depressive symptoms and the potential moderating role of highly empathic mother–child relationships.

Results

Midlife children had greater depressive symptoms when their mothers had greater depressive symptoms in the context of highly empathic mother–child relationships. This association was not moderated by children's gender.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the enduring emotional salience of the mother–child tie and emphasize the importance of relationship characteristics that may heighten the link between midlife children's and their mothers' depressive symptoms.

Implications

Interventions to prevent or treat depressive symptoms among midlife adults may benefit from accounting for the role that their mothers' depressive symptoms might play in maintaining these symptoms, particularly when mother–child ties are highly empathic.
Comparison of different anti‐Ki67 antibody clones and hot‐spot sizes for assessing proliferative index and grading in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours using manual and image analysis
Authors: Owens Roisin , Gilmore Elaine , Bingham Victoria , Cardwell Christopher , McBride Hilary , McQuaid Stephen , Humphries Matthew , Kelly Paul
Published: July 2020

Aims

Ki67 proliferative index (PI) is essential for grading gastroenteric and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP NETs). Analytical and preanalytical variables can affect Ki67 PI. In contrast to counting methodology, until now little attention has focused on the question of clone equivalence and the effect of hot‐spot size on Ki67 PI in GEP NETs. Using manual counting and image analysis, this study compared the Ki67 PI achieved using MM1, K2 and 30‐9 to MIB1, a clone which has been validated for, and is referenced in, guidelines relating to assessment of Ki67 PI in GEP NETs.

Methods and results

Forty‐two pancreatic NETs were each immunohistochemically stained for the anti‐Ki67 clones MIB1, MM1, K2 and 30‐9. Ki67 PI was calculated manually and by image analysis, the latter using three different hot‐spot sizes. In manual comparisons using single hot‐spot high‐power fields, non‐MIB1 clones overestimated Ki67 PI compared to MIB1, resulting in grading discordances. Image analysis shows good agreement with manual Ki67 PI but a tendency to overestimate absolute Ki67 PI. Increasing the size of tumour hot‐spot from 500 to 2000 cells resulted in a decrease in Ki67 PI.

Conclusion

Different anti‐Ki67 clones do not produce equivalent PIs in GEP NETs, and clone selection may therefore affect patient care. Increasing the hot‐spot size decreases the Ki67 PI. Greater standardisation in terms of antibody clone selection and hot‐spot size is required for grading GEP NETs. Image analysis is an effective tool for assisting Ki67 assessment and allows easier standardisation of the size of the tumour hot‐spot.
Surface and structural changes in root dentine by various chelating solutions used in regenerative endodontics
Authors: Bosaid F. , Aksel H. , Makowka S. , Azim A. A.
Published: July 2020

Aim

To evaluate the effects of the prolonged use of various irrigant solutions used during regenerative endodontic procedures on the physical and chemical structure of root canal dentine in extracted human teeth.

Methodology

Sixtyroot dentine samples from extracted, single‐rooted, human teeth were assigned to 10 groups. Eight groups were irrigated with 1.5% NaOCl for 5 min, followed by 3%, 10%, 17% EDTA or 10% citric acid (CA) for 5 or 10 min. One group received only NaOCl irrigation, and samples with only distilled water irrigation were used as a control group. The changes in microhardness and flexural strength were determined using Vickers and 3‐point flexural tester, respectively. Molecular and elemental compositions were recorded using FTIR and EDS spectroscopy. Data were analysed using one‐way anova, Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results

The application of 1.5% NaOCl for 5 min did not affect the mineral content or microhardness of dentine (P > 0.05). However, it significantly decreased the dentine collagen peak values (P < 0.05), which was similar to the control group after the use of chelating agents (EDTA and 10% of CA) (P > 0.05). The effect of EDTA on the inorganic content was not concentration and time dependent (P > 0.05). CA resulted in a significantly greater reduction in the inorganic contents compared with the control and EDTA groups (P < 0.05). Regardless of the time, EDTA and CA significantly decreased dentine microhardness compared to the control (P < 0.05) with the greatest reduction in the CA groups (P < 0.05). NaOCl alone was associated with the lowest flexural strength, while none of the other irrigation regimens significantly decreased the flexural strength compared to the control group (P> 0.05).

Conclusions

Use of 1.5% NaOCl for 5 min decreased the collagen content of samples of human dentine from extracted teeth while EDTA and 10% citric acid mostly affected the inorganic content and microhardness of dentine surfaces. None of the irrigant solutions significantly decreased the mechanical properties of the entire dentine specimen.
The impact of two root canal treatment protocols on the oral health‐related quality of life: a randomized controlled pragmatic clinical trial
Authors: Diniz‐de‐Figueiredo F. E. , Lima L. F. , Oliveira L. S. , Bernardino I. M. , Paiva S. M. , Faria‐e‐Silva A. L.
Published: July 2020

Aim

To assess the impact of two root canal treatment protocols on the oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients in need of root canal treatment on their anterior teeth.

Methodology

The sample consisted of 120 participants (mean age: 34 years) enrolled in a pragmatic randomized clinical trial evaluating two root canal treatment protocols. Anterior teeth with nonvital pulps were allocated for root canal preparation with either hand files and filled with lateral compaction of gutta‐percha (manual protocol) or canal preparation with a single file in a reciprocating movement and filled with a single cone technique (Reciproc protocol). OHRQoL data were assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile instrument (OHIP‐14), which was administered before the root canal intervention (baseline), and 6 and 12 months after treatment. Demographic and clinical characteristics of participants were collected at baseline. Data were analysed using bivariate analyses, Poisson univariate and multiple regression (α = 0.05).

Results

The drop‐out rate from baseline was 27% and 28% at 6 and 12 months after treatment, respectively. Both root canal protocols significantly enhanced patients' OHRQoL, regardless of the follow‐up time (P < 0.001). After 6 months, patients treated with the Reciproc protocol had significantly lower OHIP‐14 overall scores (P = 0.030), as well as significantly lower scores for psychological discomfort (P = 0.031) and social disability (P = 0.013). After 12 months, no significant difference was observed between the two root canal protocols for OHIP‐14 overall scores (P = 0.174). Either large or moderate effect sizes were observed for all domains and overall scores at both evaluation times, irrespective of the protocol. Low‐income persons (RR = 2.03) and the Reciproc protocol (RR = 1.52) had a higher likelihood of a positive impact on OHRQoL 12 months after root canal treatment.

Conclusions

The two root canal protocols improved the OHRQoL and differences in scores were observed only after 6 months with poorer OHRQoL for the manual protocol. After 12 months, patients with low‐income status and treated with Reciproc were associated with a greater improvement in OHRQoL scores.
Comparison between lipid and protein oxidation progress in the tail and claw muscles of signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus)
Authors: Hematyar Nima , Policar Tomas , Mohagheghi Samarin Azadeh , Sampels Sabine , Gazo Ievgeniia , Mraz Jan
Published: July 2020

Microbial activity and then oxidation progress are the most important freshness indicators during post‐mortem. In this study, we monitored proteomic and microbial changes, as well as biochemical degradation, in the tail and claw muscles of crayfish stored for 12 days at +4 °C. One specified protein band at 107 kDa in the claw muscle and two specified protein bands in the tail muscle at 140 and 36–40 kDa were identified. Western blotting indicated a higher amount of oxidised proteins in the tail compared to the claw muscle. Tail muscle showed higher oxidation progress and calpain activity than claw one. Both muscles were spoiled after 12 days with respect to total viable counts. In the first days, calpain activity is the main reason for protein degradation, while protein oxidation dominates for the rest of the time. Lipid–protein oxidation progress showed probably, protein oxidation started earlier than lipid oxidation in both muscles.
An integrated sustainable approach for the development of Kyoho skin functional tea
Authors: Sridhar Kandi , Chao‐Sheng Fan , Charles Albert Linton
Published: July 2020

Kyoho (Vitis labruscana) skin is one of the valuable and eco‐friendly agricultural waste and a potential source of phenolic compounds. Therefore, we attempted to develop Kyoho skin functional tea and evaluated its nutritional‐functional properties as affected by drying temperatures (30, 40, 50 and 60 °C). Kyoho skin functional tea reported negligible protein (0.02 mg g−1), fat (0.04–0.19%) and calories (0.36–0.70 cal g−1). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents ranged from 0.25 to 0.56 mg GAE mL−1 and 0.03 to 0.19 mg QE mL−1, respectively. Kyoho skin functional tea showed functional properties including antioxidant activity (63.33–79.78%) and anthocyanins (0.25–0.34 mg per 100 mL). The sensory evaluation of Kyoho skin functional tea (dried at 40 °C) rated as acceptable (>6) with attractive colour (>6). Overall, these findings recommended the possibility of using Kyoho skin to develop functional teas, which may strengthen the global beverage industries.
Dioscin elicits anti‐tumour immunity by inhibiting macrophage M2 polarization via JNK and STAT3 pathways in lung cancer
Authors: Cui Luyun , Yang Guangdie , Ye Jiani , Yao Yinan , Lu Guohua , Chen Junjun , Fang Liangjie , Lu Shan , Zhou Jianying
Published: July 2020

Tumour‐associated macrophage (TAM) is an important component in tumour microenvironment. Generally, TAM exhibits the function of M2‐like macrophage, which was closely related to angiogenesis and tumour progression. Dioscin, a natural steroidal saponin, has shown its powerful anti‐tumour activity recently. However, the mechanism of dioscin involved in immune regulation is still obscure. Here, we observed dioscin induced macrophage M2‐to‐M1 phenotype transition in vitro and inhibited IL‐10 secretion. Meanwhile, the phagocytosis of macrophages was enhanced. In subcutaneous lung tumour models, dioscin inhibited the augmentation of M2 macrophage populations. Furthermore, dioscin down‐regulated STAT3 and JNK signalling pathways in macrophages in vitro. In BMDMs, activating JNK and inhibiting STAT3 induce macrophages to M1 polarization while inhibiting JNK and activating STAT3 to M2 polarization. Additionally, condition mediums from dioscin‐pre‐treated macrophages inhibited the migration of 3LL cells and the tube‐formation capacity of HUVECs. What's more, dioscin‐mediated macrophage polarization inhibited the in vivo metastasis of 3LL cells. In conclusion, dioscin may act as a new anti‐tumour agent by inhibiting TAMs via JNK and STAT3 pathways in lung cancer.