bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic metabolic profiles of marine macroalgaUlva proliferaduring fragmentation-induced proliferation
Authors: He Yanli , Wang Yanhui , Hu Chaoyang , Sun Xue , Li Yahe , Xu Nianjun
Published: March 2019

Ulva prolifera, a type of marine macroalgae, is the causative species behind green tides mainly in the Yellow Sea and adjacent regions, nevertheless, it can be used as food or animal feed in South China. The vegetative fragments ofU. proliferaare an important seed source for successive green tide blooms. Fragmentation shortens the transition time from the vegetative state to the reproductive state. However, the translation of the algal metabolites during gametogenesis was far from well understood. In this study, the dynamic metabolic profiles ofU. proliferathallus during fragmentation-induced proliferation were investigated using non-targeted metabolomics approach in a time series of experiments in June 2017. After a 30 min low temperature shock, fragmentation induced a reproductive response of 91.57% ofU. proliferain 48 h, whereas that was only 21.43% in the control group. A total of 156 chromatographic peaks were detected, and 63 metabolites were significantly changed inU. proliferaduring reproduction. The results of the Kinetic metabolic pattern showed that the fragments not only induced the formation of sporangium, but also complicated their metabolites accumulation. During fragmentation-induced proliferation,U. proliferaconsumed different sugars at different time points. γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamic acid, gallic acid, and malic acid may play important roles in germ cell formation and release ofU. prolifera, whereas n-hexanol, 2-methyl-3-phenylindole, and 3-indoleacetonitrile may be beneficial in biotic stress resistance. Compared with the control group, the metabolites, such as alcohol and organic acid, also showed significant difference with the photoperiod at the initial stage of proliferation (before 60 h). In conclusion, that the metabolites including sugars, organic acids, and alcohol changed with different photoperiod may be the strategy forU. proliferato cope with adverse environment and rapid proliferation.
Taxifolin tubes: crystal engineering and characteristics
Authors: Terekhov Roman P. , Selivanova Irina A. , Tyukavkina Nonna A. , Shylov Genadiy V. , Utenishev Andrey N. , Porozov Yuri B.
Published: March 2019

Taxifolin, also known as dihydroquercetin, is the major flavonoid in larch wood. It is well known as an antioxidant and a bioactive substance. Taxifolin as an active pharmaceutical ingredient is produced industrially in crystalline form during the processing of larch wood. Some information is available on nano- and microstructured particles of taxifolin. This paper reports on the generation of a new form of taxifolin as microtubes. These self-assembled tubes were obtained from raw taxifolin by crystal engineering with urea at ambient temperature and pressure. The parameters of temperature, pH value, molar ratio of taxifolin and urea, and time duration were optimized for yield enhancement of the microtubes. The water solubility and melting point of the new form of taxifolin were established. The microtubes were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray powder diffraction, microscopy, mass spectrometry, 1H NMR spectroscopy, UV spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy methods. The experimental results demonstrate that the microtubes and raw taxifolin both exist in crystalline form with the same structure of the crystal unit. However, they are characterized by different morphological and physicochemical properties. Computer simulation was performed to explain the mechanism of the self-assembly process.
China-North Korea relations: at a crossroad or same old, same old
Authors: Kim Young Joon
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the nature of the China–North Korea alliance that has been often described as “Lips and Teeth” or “Blood Tied.”

Design/methodology/approach

In order to make accurate assessment of the China–North Korea relations, this paper conducts indepth historical analysis of the relations. The relations between two countries were formed in 1940s and lasts until today.

Findings

However, by looking into the history of two countries, this paper argues that the bilateral relations are not an extraordinary but an ordinary state-to-state relations dictated by national interests. Changes in their calculus of national interests affect their relations. They cooperate with each other when they see mutual benefit in doing so and tension arises when there is a conflict of interests. What should be noted is that the changes in the nature of relations is different from the deterioration in the relations. Recent improvement of their relations supports this paper’s argument.

Originality/value

This paper suggests new look at the China–North Korea relations that has been considered as an extraordinary relations. The findings of this paper suggest that the alliance relation is not different from other state-to-state relations where conflict and cooperation occurs based on their national interests.
The effects of physical and social attributes of place on place attachment
Authors: Özkan Doruk Görkem , Yilmaz Serap
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the required physical and social attributes of open spaces and demonstrate the effects of these attributes on place dependency, which is the functional dimension of place attachment. In this context, the paper only focused on the effects of the physical and social attributes of the environment on the place attachment.

Design/methodology/approach

The general framework of the study design included the determination of the place attachment value for the space through identification of its physical and social attributes by the users. The research method included the evaluation of the physical and social attributes and the place attachment.

Findings

The study model demonstrated that the place attachment increased in successful urban spaces where user needs are met at a higher level. It was demonstrated that the social attributes, in particular the social environment, had a higher impact on the functional attachment of the users when compared to the physical attributes.

Research limitations/implications

The present study investigated the factors that affected place attachment in urban open spaces within the context of human–environment interaction and specifically in the context of Trabzon square parks.

Practical implications

The study findings are considered important for both urban planners and administrators, who are responsible for protection and development of urban spaces, and the users.

Originality/value

The present study attempted to investigate the effects of physical and social attributes of the place on place dependence.
Studio teaching experiments – spatial transitioning for autism schools
Authors: Love Joan Scott
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate a teaching model involving an experimental studio project for first-year interior architecture university students.

Design/methodology/approach

Content, process, teaching style and feedback are examined in a project, run over five years, concerning transitioning between environments for people with autism in an attempt to advance design of autism schools. Research methodology, teaching model, outcomes and group dynamics are critiqued.

Findings

Feedback from experienced autism-specific teachers across eight case study schools raise recurring issues framing a series of design problems navigated by students. The teaching model enhances student exploration of how sensory processing difficulties, through spatial transitioning strategies, might be approached, whilst furthering their specialist knowledge as future designers of inclusive spaces.

Research limitations/implications

Each transitioning platform requires deeper research to form a realistic interior typology. A further project to install and evaluate specific “transitioning insertions” into circulation spaces of an autism school is proposed for future research.

Practical implications

The identification of this teaching model illustrates how to embed design for autism in the university curriculum.

Social implications

The project brief helps address the National Autistic Society’s public autism awareness campaign “Too Much Information” highlighting anxieties that “unexpected change” causes. Effective design of transitioning spaces can help people with autism to cope with their environment, reducing behaviours and improving learning.

Originality/value

The creation of the “Co-specialist ASD-educator model” will be of value to universities. “Ten Spatial Transitioning Platforms” were uncovered relating to Transitions. This will be of importance to autism researchers and eventually design practitioners.
Informing sustainable building design
Authors: Landgren Mathilde , Jakobsen Signe Skovmand , Wohlenberg Birthe , Jensen Lotte Bjerregaard
Published: March 2019

Purpose

In recent decades there has been a focus on reducing the overall emissions from the built environment, which increases the complexity of the building design process. More specialized knowledge, a greater common understanding and more cooperation between the stakeholders are required. Interdisciplinary design teams need simple and intuitive means of communication. Architects and engineers are starting to increase their focus on improving interdisciplinary communication, but it is often unclear how to do so. The purpose of this paper is to define the impact of visually communicating engineering knowledge to architects in an interdisciplinary design team and to define how quantifying architectural design decisions have an impact during the early phases of sustainable building design.

Design/methodology/approach

This work is based on a study of extensive project materials consisting of presentations, reports, simulation results and case studies. The material is made available by one of the largest European Engineering Consultancies and by a large architectural office in the field of sustainable architecture in Denmark. The project material is used for mapping communication concepts from practice.

Findings

It is demonstrated that visual communication by engineers increases the level of technical knowledge in the design decisions made by architects. This is essential in order to reach the goal of designing buildings with low environmental impact. Conversely, quantification of architectural quality improved the engineer’s acceptance of the architects’ proposals.

Originality/value

This paper produces new knowledge through the case study processes performed. The main points are presented as clearly as possible; however, it should be stressed that it is only the top of the iceberg. In all, 17 extensive case studies design processes were performed with various design teams by the 3 authors of the paper Mathilde, Birthe and Signe. The companies that provided the framework for the cases are leading in Europe within sustainability in the built environment, and in the case of Sweco also in regards to size (number of employees). Data are thus first hand and developed by the researchers and authors of this paper, with explicit consent from the industry partners involved as well as assoc. Professor Lotte B. Jensen Technical University of Denmark (DTU). This material is in the DTU servers and is in the PhD dissertation by Mathilde Landgren (successful defence was in January 2019). The observations and reflection is presented in selected significant case examples. The methods are descriped in detail, and if further information on method is required a more in depth description is found in Mathilde Landgrens PhD Dissertation. There is a lack in existing literature of the effect of visualisation in interdisciplinary design teams and though the literature (e.g. guidelines) of integrated design is extensive, there is not much published on this essential part of an integrated design process.
Architect–client relationship and value addition in private residential projects
Authors: Angral Akash
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contextualise the architect–client relationship and evaluate the factors responsible for its deterioration, and then define the impact of these factors on the future needs of architects and clients, including how such knowledge can help emerging architects to develop an understanding of the profession at an early stage. It will attempt to reveal new insights and build consensus around issues, such as functionality and aesthetics, per cent-based fee structure, conflict of interest amongst architects, contractors and clients.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of qualitative online survey, semi-structured interviews and online focus group discussions under the comprehensive umbrella of the case study method has been used to construct a pragmatic framework. The data collection was focused on revealed preferences rather than stated preferences, in terms of likes and dislikes, in a standard survey.

Findings

Overall, this paper strengthens the idea that the predicament of the profession and the marginalisation of architects is due to their detachment from clients. The findings suggest that the fee structure might be a major source of discontent and there is an urgent need for alternative routes of procurement, particularly for private residential clients. While most clients prefer functionality over aesthetics and want architects to be affordable, they are more willing to invest their trust in architects who can deliver from concept to completion.

Research limitations/implications

The arguments contested in this paper attempt to demystify the dynamics that are at play during the construction stage. It looks at power sharing, responsibilities and silent hierarchies that transpire between architects, clients and contractors, particularly in private residential projects.

Originality/value

The main recommendation of this paper is that to secure the future of the architecture profession emerging architects need to be trained more in client-centric skills than design-centric aptitude.
Evidence-based design
Authors: Irish Julie E.N.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder affecting around 1:59 children. Among other characteristics, children with ASD can be unduly sensitive to elements in the built environment, such as noise or light. Despite this knowledge, to date there has been little evidence-based experimental research investigating how the environment affects them. The purpose of this paper is to conduct an experiment in a school environment with children with ASD and document the process as a model that other researchers could apply to similar studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focused on whether the application of wayfinding aids (colored doors, colored shapes on the floor and signage) in a school corridor could help children with ASD navigate to a given destination, but the process could be applied to other variables at other study sites. The study documents the approval and consent process, describes setting up the experiment, assigning controlled and uncontrolled variables, selecting and recruiting participants, and running the experiment.

Findings

The study concludes by reviewing the key lessons learned from the process of conducting the experiment. Study logistics were challenging to gain approval and set up and run the experiment; collaboration with school district personnel was essential to meet the aims of the study; and recruiting sufficient numbers of participants with ASD who were not familiar with the study site was challenging.

Originality/value

By describing key steps in the process of conducting a research experiment with children with ASD, the study provides a model that other researchers could follow.
Analytical investigation of urban housing typologies in twentieth century Istanbul
Authors: Gür Elmira Ayşe , Dülgeroğlu Yüksel Yurdanur
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Turkey has been rapidly urbanizing since the 1950s. In quantitative and qualitative meanings, the problem of housing is one of the most important subjects on Turkey’s agenda. Increasing population, rapid cultural and economic transition and the dynamics of in-migration, changes in social life, consumption patterns and value systems have made a significant impact on housing demand and supply. If we try to realize a general analytical outlook to define the basic formal and informal categories that reflect specific values pertaining to housing typology of the twentieth century, it would be possible to make a classification under the following sub-titles: formal housing-row houses, separate houses, apartment blocks, social housing, mass-housing, luxury housing including gated communities; informal housing – squatter settlements/gecekondus, slums; inbetween –apartkondus, unpermitted constructions/building extensions. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Istanbul has been experiencing these various dynamics of planned and unplanned housing settlements in a very radical way, since the 1950s. Changing typology is examined systematically under certain periods up to now. In confronting housing needs under rapid urbanization, “types of housing supply channels” appeared and as a result, urban texture has been changing by periods. In this paper, in order to understand each of these categories and the conditions under which they have been generated, an analysis will be realized to understand the urban housing concept of Istanbul within the twentieth century urban environment.

Findings

The factors playing a role in the evolution of twentieth century dwelling forms on Istanbul will be defined, and the physical/architectural, locational, neighborhood characteristics, as well as their user profile will be examined.

Originality/value

This study is expected to contribute to the further understanding of the urban housing stock and the future trends in housing typology.
Diversity and equality in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Ortlieb Renate , Rahimić Zijada , Hirt Christian , Bešić Almina , Bieber Florian
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to knowledge about workplace diversity and equality in an under-researched country. Focusing on the south-eastern European transition economy of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), it elaborates on the country’s legislation, public debate and previous research in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a synopsis of the legislative framework, existing literature, public media and personal communications with human resource (HR) practitioners.

Findings

There is only limited research on diversity and equality in BiH. Ethnicity and gender are the most common grounds for discrimination. Although a solid body of legislation addressing anti-discrimination and equality issues exists, implementation is insufficient. The public debate tends to reinforce inter-ethnic conflicts and a negative atmosphere regarding sexual minority rights.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the general lack of research on diversity and equality in BiH, the findings presented in this paper only can serve as a first approximation of the topic. Further academic research on concrete business practices and perspectives of HR managers is needed.

Practical implications

Firms not only need to increase compliance with anti-discrimination law, but they should also focus more on the benefits a multi-ethnic society can offer.

Originality/value

This is the first paper in the management literature that provides comprehensive insight into workplace diversity and equality in BiH.
Anti-discrimination legislation in the Caribbean: is everyone protected?
Authors: Stephenson Jacqueline , Persadie Natalie
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine employment discrimination in the English-speaking Caribbean by analysing evidence from jurisdictions where anti-discrimination legislation has been enacted (namely Guyana, St Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago (T&T)).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews existing anti-discrimination legislation in the three named countries, along with available court and tribunal decisions, with a view of determining whether the protections reasonably cover all minority groups.

Findings

It has been shown that, despite the existence of anti-discrimination law in T&T, St Lucia and Guyana, discrimination is still reported. T&T is the only jurisdiction with a functioning Equality Opportunity Commission and Tribunal, and where a wide range of cases has been adjudicated, relative to St Lucia and Guyana.

Research limitations/implications

Legislators and policy makers may wish to consider the findings of this research in making legislative amendments or enacting new laws, with a view to broadening the range of protections. Organisational practitioners may use the findings to assist them with interpreting the law (and their responsibilities to protected groups) and its intended impact on HR practice and, where necessary, make changes where current practices are incongruent with the legislation.

Practical implications

Legislators and policy makers may consider the findings of this research in making legislative amendments, with a view to broadening the range of protections. Organisational practitioners may use the findings to assist them with interpreting and implementing the law.

Originality/value

This paper reviews current Caribbean anti-discrimination legislation and cases, which to date has not been done. It highlights the omission of sexual orientation from legislation enacted across the region. There is currently a paucity of research on employment discrimination within Caribbean territories and specifically as it relates to the effect of applicable legislation. Consequently, this paper establishes a benchmark for future researchers and it informs organisational and societal stakeholders as to what may constitute prohibited practices.
A new variable stiffness actuator and its control method
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Wendong , Shi Yikai , Chu Yang , Ming Xing
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To achieve variable stiffness, this paper aims to design a flexible actuator with variable stiffness by using the magnetorheological effect of magnetorheological fluid. The variable stiffness actuator can well meet the safety requirements of human–robot interaction and be more adaptable to unknown or complex environments. The variable stiffness actuator designed in this study can realize the continuous and controllable change of stiffness compared with the existing actuator.

Design/methodology/approach

The principle of variable stiffness actuator is illustrated in detail; the three-dimensional model and mechanical model of the flexible actuator are provided. The magnetic field distribution of the actuator coil is analyzed, and the dynamic model of the actuator is provided.

Findings

Output torque test suggests that the magnetorheological fluid variable stiffness actuator (VSAMF) can output a stable torque which meets the designing requirements of the test; sinusoidal follow-up test shows that VSAMF can implement sinusoidal follow-up; variable stiffness test shows that VSAMF can achieve real-time variable stiffness adjustment; the crash test suggests that VSAMF can well protect machines when meeting obstacles.

Originality/value

In this paper, a new variable stiffness joint is proposed through changing the current to change the performance of the stiffness, and it can realize the continuous and controllable change of stiffness.
Posture measurement of soft pneumatic bending actuator using optical fibre-based sensing membrane
Authors: Sun Guangkai , Hu Yang , Dong Mingli , He Yanlin , Yu Mingxin , Zhu Lianqing
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Soft robotics is a burgeoning field owing to its high adaptability and safety in human–machine interaction and unstructured environments. However, the feedback control of soft actuators with flexible sensors is still a challenge.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this issue, this study proposes an optical fibre-based sensing membrane for the posture measurement of soft pneumatic bending actuators. The major contribution is the development of a flexible sensing membrane with a high sensitivity and repeatability for the feedback control of soft actuators. The characteristics of sensing membrane were analysed. The relationship between wavelength shift and bending curvature was derived. The curvatures of soft actuator were measured at four bending status, and the postures were reconstructed.

Findings

The results indicate that the measurement error is less than 2.1% of the actual bending curvature. The sensitivity is up to 212.8 pm/m−1, and the signal fluctuation in repeated measurements is negligible. This approach has broad application prospects in soft robotics, because it makes the optical fibre achieve more strength and compatible with soft actuators, thus improving the sensing accuracy, sensitivity and reliability of fibre sensors.

Originality/value

Different from previous approaches, an optical fibre with FBGs is embedded into a multilayered polyimide film to form a flexible sensing membrane, and the membrane is embedded into a soft pneumatic bending actuator as the smart strain limited layer which is able to measure the posture in real time. This approach makes the optical fibre stronger and compatible with the soft pneumatic bending actuator, and the sensing accuracy, sensitivity and reliability are improved. The proposed sensing configuration is effective for the feedback control of the soft pneumatic bending actuators.
The experience of learning from mental health service users and carers
Authors: Wilson Charlotte
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore student experiences of learning from mental health service users and carers.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 30 clinical psychology trainees and ex-trainees took part in an online survey (n=21) or focus group (n=9). Responses were analysed using interpretative thematic analysis.

Findings

A number of themes were identified. There were two pre-conditions of learning: valuing the teaching and emotional arousal. Participants’ learning experiences were characterised by cognitive and meta-cognitive processes: active learning, reflection, increased attention and vivid memories. Furthermore, participants might have a meta-cognitive experience of having learned something, but being unsure what that something was. Participants reported learning about the lives of service users, about themselves and about the wider societal context for people with mental health difficulties.

Practical implications

In order to facilitate learning students should value the input of service users. This allows them to contain and use the emotional arousal the teaching produces. Furthermore, leaving students with a feeling that something has been learned but not being exactly sure what that has been may facilitate students seeking out further opportunities for service user involvement.

Originality/value

Few studies have explored the process of learning from mental health service users and carers. In the current study, the emotion aroused in participants was primary. Furthermore, a new meta-cognitive experience, namely, the experience of having learned something, but not being sure what has been learned, has been identified.
Beneficial effects oflinum usitatissimum L.on dyslipidemia, oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines in hypercholesterolemic rats
Authors: Dali Sarra , Krouf Djamil , Mellouk Zoheir , Taleb-Dida Nawal
Published: March 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effects of a diet supplemented with flaxseeds on dyslipidemia, oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines, in rats consuming a high-cholesterol diet.

Design/methodology/approach

Male Wistar rats (n= 30) weighing (250 ± 5 g) of which 10 were control and 20 were rendered hypercholesterolemic (HC) by feeding a diet enriched with 1% of cholesterol, for 15 days. After this phase, rats were divided into two groups; hypercholesterolemic group (HC) (n= 10), fed 20% casein diet enriched with 1% cholesterol; and hypercholesterolemic rats fed the same diet (n= 10), but additionally supplemented with flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum) (Lu) powder, i.e. HC-Lu. Animals of the control group (n= 10) were fed the casein diet. All the animals were maintained on the respective diets for four weeks.

Findings

This study showed that in HC-Lu as compared to HC group, plasma total cholesterol, triacylglycerols and non-HDL cholesterol concentrations were respectively 2.4-, 1.5- and 3-fold lower. Also, the lipid peroxidation was reduced in red blood cells, organs (liver, heart and aorta) and lipoproteins (HDL2, HDL3 and VDL-LDL). A higher superoxide dismutase activity was observed in liver (+61%), heart (+62%) and aorta (+59%), whereas plasma proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1beta and IL-6) levels were decreased.

Originality/value

These results suggest that flaxseeds help to reduce hypercholesterolemia, oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with hypercholesterolemia.
Experiences of using the researching professional development framework
Authors: Lindsay Hilary , Floyd Alan
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a longitudinal study that explored the perceptions and experiences of part-time doctoral students using the researching professional development framework (RPDF) as they progressed through the first year of their EdD programme at a research-led English University.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an initial questionnaire completed by students and supervisors (n = 18), six students were interviewed at the beginning, middle and end of the year.

Findings

The findings suggest that students found the RPDF had been of particular value early in their studies and had helped them realise that they were developing their identity as researching professionals, ready to make a difference to professional practice through their research.

Originality/value

While Doctorate in Education (EdD) courses have been around for some time, supporting frameworks have tended to be based on traditional PhD routes of study, with the unique development needs of part-time students (who are often working full-time and undertaking research into their professional context) often being ignored. To fill this gap, the authors recently proposed a new framework – the Researching Professional Development Framework – which was specifically developed to support EdD students by offering them an opportunity to reflect on key areas of their professional development as they progress through their studies.
Does divergent selection predict the evolution of mate preference and reproductive isolation in the tropical butterfly genus Melinaea (Nymphalidae: Ithomiini)?
Authors: McClure Melanie , Mahrouche Louiza , Houssin Céline , Monllor Monica , Le Poul Yann , Frérot Brigitte , Furtos Alexandra , Elias Marianne
Published: March 2019

Many studies have shown that speciation can be facilitated when a trait under divergent selection also causes assortative mating. In Müllerian mimetic butterflies, a change in wing colour pattern can cause reproductive isolation. However, colour pattern divergence does not always lead to reproductive isolation. Understanding how divergent selection affects speciation requires identifying the mechanisms that promote mate preference and/or choosiness.

This study addresses whether shifts in wing colour pattern drives mate preference and reproductive isolation in the tropical butterfly genus Melinaea (Nymphalidae: Ithomiini), and focuses on five taxa that form a speciation continuum, from subspecies to fully recognized species.

Using genetic markers, wing colour pattern quantification, male pheromone characterization and behavioural assays of mating preference, we characterize the extent of genetic and phenotypic differentiation between taxa and compare it to the level of reproductive isolation.

We show strong premating isolation between the closely related species M. satevis and M. marsaeus, in addition to genetic and phenotypic (colour pattern and pheromones) differentiation. By contrast, M. menophilus and M. marsaeus consist of pairs of subspecies that differ for colour pattern but that cannot be differentiated genetically. Pheromonal differentiation of subspecies was significant only for M. marsaeus, although most individuals were indistinguishable. Melinaea menophilus and M. marsaeus also differ in the strength of assortative mating, suggesting that mate preference has evolved only in M. marsaeus, consistent with selection against maladaptive offspring, as subspecific ‘hybrids’ of M. marsaeus have intermediate, non‐mimetic colour patterns, unlike those of M. menophilus which display either parental phenotypes.

We conclude that a shift in colour pattern per se is not sufficient for reproductive isolation, but rather, the evolution of assortative mating may be caused by selection against maladaptive intermediate phenotypes. This study suggests that mate preference and assortative mating evolve when adaptive, and that even in the early stages of divergence, reproductive isolation can be nearly complete due to mating preferences.
‘No Longer an Image, Not Yet a Concept’: Montage and the Failure to Cohere in Aleksandr Rodchenko's Gulag Photoessay
Authors: Glebova Aglaya
Published: March 2019

In 1933, Aleksandr Rodchenko travelled to the White Sea‐Baltic Canal, one of the first Gulags. Shortly after, his photomontages were published in the propaganda journal USSR in Construction. This photoessay largely abandons Rodchenko's earlier modernist practices, and espousal of medium‐specificity, instead downplaying its photographic qualities, and gesturing to other media as visual indemnity. Nonetheless, Rodchenko's Canal images display the constructed and conflicted nature of representation. This essay probes how the radically expanded, albeit incoherent, visual language of the Soviet avant‐garde in the early 1930s could function not only to reinforce, but also potentially to question, the state's dictates.
Professional autonomy and surveillance: the case of public reporting in cardiac surgery
Authors: Exworthy Mark , Gabe Jonathan , Jones Ian R. , Smith Glenn
Published: March 2019

Professional autonomy has come under greater scrutiny due to managerialism, consumerism, information and communication technologies (ICT), and the changing composition of professions themselves. This scrutiny is often portrayed as a tension between professional and managerial logics. Recently, medical autonomy has increasingly been shaped in terms of transparency, where publication of clinical performance (via ICT) might be a more pervasive form of surveillance. Such transparency may have the potential for a more explicit managerial logic but is contested by clinicians. This paper applies notions of surveillance to public reporting of cardiac surgery, involving the online publication of mortality rates of named surgeons. It draws on qualitative data from a case‐study of cardiac surgeons in one hospital, incorporating interviews with health care managers and national policymakers in England. We examine how managerial logics are mediated by professional autonomy, generating patterns of enrolment, resistance and reactivity to public reporting. The managerial ‘gaze' of public reporting is becoming widespread but the surgical specialty is accommodating it, leading to a re‐assertion of knowledge, based on professional definitions. The paper assesses whether this form of surveillance is challenging to or being assimilated by the medical profession, thereby recasting the profession itself.
Losers lose more than winners win: Asymmetrical effects of winning and losing in elections
Authors: HANSEN SUNE WELLING , KLEMMENSEN ROBERT , SERRITZLEW SØREN
Published: March 2019

Being on the winning or the losing side in elections has important consequences for voters’ perceptions of democracy. This article contributes to the existing literature by showing that being on the losing side has persistent effects over a surprisingly long time. Based on a dataset that measures voters’ satisfaction with democracy three years after elections were held, it first shows that losers are significantly more dissatisfied with democracy than winners on both input and output side measures of perceptions of democracy. Furthermore, the article shows that turning from winning to losing has significant negative effects on voters’ satisfaction, and that this finding is robust across a number of different specifications. These results are remarkable given that the data used is from Denmark – a country that constitutes a least‐likely case for finding effects of being on the winning or the losing side.
Consumer Willingness to Pay Price Premiums for Credence Attributes of Livestock Products – A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yang Wei , Renwick Alan
Published: March 2019

Livestock products, such as dairy and beef, are increasingly regarded as resource intensive and concerns are raised about animal welfare and environmental sustainability. As a result, consumer awareness of these issues has led to an increasing demand for products with high quality credence attributes (CAs) that cannot be directly experienced or identified. A number of empirical studies have attempted to estimate consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for CAs, which represents the additional value placed on the benefits that they derive from those products. However, there are significant differences in these WTP estimates, mainly because both consumers' perceptions of CAs and the conditions of the studies vary. We conduct a meta‐analysis to examine consumers' WTP for different CAs of livestock products based on a systematic review of relevant studies. Meta‐regression models are used to control for the heterogeneity of WTP estimates and investigate factors that affect the estimation of WTP. Overall 555 estimates derived from 94 papers reporting WTP are included in this study. Meta‐regression results establish the presence of systematic WTP variation associated with types of products, CAs, and locations, though also indicate that WTP is subject to systematic variation associated with study methodology.
Driving change: A partnership study protocol using shared emergency department data to reduce alcohol‐related harm
Authors: Miller Peter , Droste Nicolas , Egerton‐Warburton Diana , Caldicott David , Fulde Gordian , Ezard Nadine , Preisz Paul , Walby Andrew , Lloyd‐Jones Martyn , Stella Julian , Sheridan Michael , Baker Tim , Hall Michael , Shakeshaft Anthony , Havard Alys , Bowe Steve , Staiger Petra K , D'Este Catherine , Doran Chris , Coomber Kerri , Hyder Shannon , Barker Daniel , Shepherd Jonathan
Published: March 2019

Background

Sharing anonymised ED data with community agencies to reduce alcohol‐related injury and assaults has been found effective in the UK. This protocol document outlines the design of an Australian multi‐site trial using shared, anonymised ED data to reduce alcohol‐related harm.

Design and Method

Nine hospitals will participate in a 36 month stepped‐wedge cluster randomised trial. After a 9 month baseline period, EDs will be randomised in five groups, clustered on geographic proximity, to commence the intervention at 3 monthly intervals. ‘Last‐drinks’ data regarding alcohol use in the preceding 12 h, typical alcohol consumption amount, and location of alcohol purchase and consumption, are to be prospectively collected by ED triage nurses and clinicians at all nine EDs as a part of standard clinical process. Brief information flyers will be delivered to all ED patients who self‐report risky alcohol consumption. Public Health Interventions to be conducted are: (i) information sharing with venues (via letter), and (ii) with police and other community agencies, and (iii) the option for public release of ‘Top 5’ venue lists.

Outcomes

Primary outcomes will be: (i) the number and proportion of ED attendances among patients reporting recent alcohol use; and (ii) the number and proportion of ED attendances during high‐alcohol hours (Friday and Saturday nights, 20.00–06.00 hours) assigned an injury diagnosis. Process measures will assess logistical and feasibility concerns, and clinical impacts of implementing this systems‐change model in an Australian context. An economic cost–benefit analysis will evaluate the economic impact, or return on investment.
Postoesophagectomy chylothorax: A single‐centre, 14‐year review
Authors: Lo Samuel Tsoon‐Wuan , Lam Kar‐Hei , Lam Hiu‐Ying , Wong Kevin Ka‐Fai , Leung Siu‐Kee
Published: March 2019

Aim

The reported incidence of postoesophagectomy chylothorax is 1.2–4 per cent. The diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion: milky chest drain fluid and/or high volume chest drain output. Confirmatory tests involve sending fluid for laboratory investigations. Chylothorax is a potentially lethal condition and carries a high morbidity rate. An early diagnosis can potentially help to identify those who might require operation, dietary restrictions or other treatments. The aim of the present study was to evaluate chylothorax in postoesophagectomy patients.

Patients and Methods

We extracted data from patients who underwent oesophagectomy at Tuen Mun Hospital from 2004 to 2018 for the present retrospective study. Chest drain fluid from every patient was sent every postoperative day for testing for chyle, regardless of quantity and whether or not it was milky. The characteristics of the patients, disease, operations, perioperative conditions, postoperative complications, hospital stay, interventions, morbidity and mortality and chest drain outputs were compared.

Results

The incidence of chylothorax in our cohort was 9 per cent (14/155). There were nine biochemical chyle leaks (64.3 per cent) and five clinical leaks (35.7 per cent). The biochemical leakage group had a significantly higher 1‐month morbidity rate compared to the nonchylothorax patients (89.9 vs 50 per cent, P = 0.03). All biochemical leaks were resolved with conservative management.

The entire chylothorax group also had a longer hospital stay (25.5 vs 17 days, P = 0.04) compared to the nonchylothorax group. Thoracotomy was done in two patients with clinical leaks, and the remaining leaks were resolved with conservative management. In subgroup analysis, the biochemical leak subgroup was found to have a higher 1‐month morbidity rate (88.9 versus 50 per cent, P = 0.03) compared to the nonchylothorax group.

Conclusion

By routinely screening for chylothorax, the incidence was found to be 9 per cent, higher than that reported in the literature. The biochemical leak subgroup was found to have a higher 1‐month morbidity rate. This could suggest that biochemical leakage of chyle might have a clinical impact on the recovery of postoesophagectomy patients.
Day surgery for total or completion thyroidectomy: The first report in Hong Kong
Authors: Chow Tam‐Lin , Kwan Wilson Wai‐Yin , Tsui Calvin Kwan‐Pok , Yip Vivian Wai‐Man , Chu Charmaine Ka‐Lai , Njo Anthony Kui‐Hung , Lim Huey‐Sing
Published: March 2019

Aim

Day surgery for thyroidectomy is uncommon in Hong Kong. Day hemithyroidectomy is rarely reported in the literature, whereas day total or completion thyroidectomy (TTCT) has not been discussed at all. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the experience of TTCT.

Patients and Methods

Using the computerized hospital system for operations performed, the details of patients who had been scheduled for TTCT between January 2015 and May 2018 were retrieved. Their hospital charts and operation records were retrospectively evaluated with respect to the indications of surgery, operation details, complications, conversion to inpatient admission and unplanned readmission.

Results

Forty‐two eligible patients (25 total and 17 completion thyroidectomies) were identified. Total thyroidectomies were all done under general anaesthesia, whereas 70.6 per cent of completion thyroidectomies were done under local anaesthesia. The overall conversion rate to inpatient admission was 19 per cent. After total thyroidectomy, one patient was unexpectedly readmitted. No patient suffered from symptomatic hypocalcaemia, neck haematoma or mortality. There was no statistical difference between the two groups (total vs completion thyroidectomy) in terms of inpatient conversion following operation, unplanned readmission or surgical complications.

Conclusions

TTCT thyroidectomy is feasible and safe in properly selected patients. However, mitigation measures against the relatively high inpatient admission rate are worthy of consideration.
Generation of virtual lung single‐photon emission computed tomography/CT fusion images for functional avoidance radiotherapy planning using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Jang Bum‐Sup , Chang Ji Hyun , Park Andrew J , Wu Hong‐Gyun
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Functional image‐guided radiotherapy (RT) planning for normal lung avoidance has recently been introduced. Single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT can help identify the functional areas of lungs, but it is associated with delayed treatment time, additional costs and unexpected radiation exposure. In this study, we propose a machine learning algorithm that can generate functional chest CT images using the conditional generative adversarial networks (cGANs).

Methods

We collected a total of 54 lung perfusion SPECT/CT image sets from lung cancer patients who had been treated at a single institution. CT‐to‐SPECT image pairs that contained no lung voxels or did not match anatomically (on account of the patient's breathing) were removed at the physician's discretion. After we excluded the inappropriate images, we selected 3054 CT‐to‐SPECT image pairs as the training set (49 patients) and the 400 testing sets (five patients). The model was trained using the cGAN algorithm.

Results

We firstly evaluated the model based on multiscale SSIM (MS‐SSIM). With the 400 image pairs of the testing set, we obtained a lung SPECT/CT fusion image for which the MS‐SSIM was 0.87 (0.60–0.99) compared with the original image. We next estimated a gamma index between the generated and the ground truth images, resulting in a mean passing rate of 97.7 ± 1.2% with a 2%/2 mm threshold. These results supported the potential to generate functional areas of the lung parenchyma directly from chest CT images using the machine learning algorithm.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the cGAN model used here can generate functional areas from RT planning chest CT images. This could be used for functional image‐guided RT planning, for example, to spare patients’ lung function without additional imaging modalities and costs. Additional studies are needed with many more training and test sets.