bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel 3D measurement technique for rigid moving objects with a determined movement trajectory and constant movement speed
Authors: Wang Jianhua
Published: May 2019

When phase-shifting (PS) and temporal-phase-unwrapping algorithms are employed for three-dimensional (3D) shape measurement, the measured object must be kept static during the projection and acquisition. If the measured object is moving, deviation among multiple fringe images will inevitably occur, which results in the 3D measurement error. In this paper, a novel 3D measurement technique for rigid moving objects obtained by using the PS algorithm and the three-pitch heterodyne-unwrapping (TPHU) algorithm is proposed, which consists of six steps. First, the pixel offset is estimated based on a centroid deviation calculation. Second, the phase offsets among multiple fringes are calculated. Third, a novel set of fringes for the projection is generated. Fourth, we offset the captured fringe images according to the pixel offsets to generate a new set of captured fringe images for the phase calculation. Fifth, the wrapped phase is calculated by the PS algorithm. Finally, the unwrapped phase is calculated by the TPHU algorithm. The proposed method can be applied to the 3D shape reconstruction of a rigid movement object with a determined movement trajectory and constant movement speed. This approach not only greatly improves the measurement efficiency but also inherits the high accuracy and robustness of the PS and TPHU algorithms.
Hydrodynamic interaction for rigid dumbbell suspensions in steady shear flow
Authors: Piette Jourdain H. , Saengow Chaimongkol , Giacomin A. Jeffrey
Published: May 2019

From kinetic molecular theory, we can attribute the rheological behaviors of polymeric liquids to macromolecular orientation. The simplest model to capture the orientation of macromolecules is the rigid dumbbell. For a suspension of rigid dumbbells, subject to any shear flow, for instance, we must first solve the diffusion equation for the orientation distribution function. From this distribution, we then calculate the first and second normal stress differences. To get reasonable results for the normal stress differences in steady shear flow, one must account for hydrodynamic interaction between the dumbbell beads. However, for the power series expansions for these normal stress differences, three series arise. The coefficients for two of these series, (ck, dk), are not known, not even approximately, beyond the second power of the shear rate. Analytical work on many viscoelastic material functions in shear flow must be checked for consistency, in their steady shear flow limits, against these normal stress difference power series expansions. For instance, for large-amplitude oscillatory shear flow, we must recover the power series expansions in the limits of low frequency. In this work, for (ck, dk), we arrive at the exact expressions for the first 18 of these coefficients.
Phosphorus speciation and dynamics in river sediments, floodplain soils and leaf litter from the Lower Murray River region
Authors: Watson F. T. , Smernik R. J. , Doolette A. L. , Mosley L. M.
Published: May 2019

Phosphorus (P) availability, which depends on both P concentration and speciation, often controls primary productivity and algal-bloom formation in river systems. The river P pool is also connected to P pools of adjacent sediments, soils and vegetation. Thus, informed management of P in floodplain–river systems requires detailed understanding of P concentration and speciation in all of these interconnected components. We studied P speciation in river sediments and water, floodplain soils and river red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) leaf litter from the Lower Murray region using conventional spectroscopic measurements, solution 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR) spectroscopy, and leaching experiments to simulate floodplain re-wetting of leaf litter. Almost all (>85%) of the P in river sediments was in the orthophosphate form, whereas floodplain soils had higher proportions of organic P (PO) species. Both fresh and senescent river red gum leaf litter also had a much higher concentration of PO, primarily in the form of phytate. On submersion, there was a rapid (0–96h) loss of dissolved P from senescent leaves; release of dissolved organic carbon showed similar kinetics. Loss of P from the leaves included both organic and inorganic forms. The results have important implications for aquatic primary productivity and environmental management strategies.
Role of thyroid dysimmunity and thyroid hormones in endometriosis
Authors: Peyneau Marine , Kavian Niloufar , Chouzenoux Sandrine , Nicco Carole , Jeljeli Mohamed , Toullec Laurie , Reboul-Marty Jeanne , Chenevier-Gobeaux Camille , Reis Fernando M. , Santulli Pietro , Doridot Ludivine , Chapron Charles , Batteux Frédéric
Published: May 2019

Significance

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder whose physiopathology is still unclear. Thyroid autoimmunity has long been associated with endometriosis, without a mechanistic explanation to link the two pathologies. First, we showed that thyroid hormone metabolism is altered in endometriotic cells. Our in vitro study further revealed the proliferative and prooxidative roles of thyroid hormones in endometriotic cells. Finally, we confirmed the aggravating role of thyroid hormones in endometriosis evolution in three different mouse models. In humans, thyroid disorders are associated with more severe forms of endometriosis. Thus, thyroid function and thyroid hormone medication should be taken into account for the care of women with endometriosis.
Optimal power generation using dark states in dimers strongly coupled to their environment
Authors: Rouse D M , Gauger E M , Lovett B W
Published: May 2019

Dark state protection has been proposed as a mechanism to increase the power output of light harvesting devices by reducing the rate of radiative recombination. Indeed many theoretical studies have reported increased power outputs in dimer systems which use quantum interference to generate dark states. These models have typically been restricted to particular geometries and to weakly coupled vibrational baths. Here we consider the experimentally-relevant strong vibrational coupling regime with no geometric restrictions on the dimer. We analyze how dark states can be formed in the dimer by numerically minimizing the emission rate of the lowest energy excited eigenstate, and then calculate the power output of the molecules with these dark states. We find that there are two distinct types of dark states depending on whether the monomers form homodimers, where energy splittings and dipole strengths are identical, or heterodimers, where there is some difference. Homodimers, which exploit destructive quantum interference, produce high power outputs but strong phonon couplings and perturbations from ideal geometries are extremely detrimental. Heterodimers, which are closer to the classical picture of a distinct donor and acceptor molecule, produce an intermediate power output that is relatively stable to these changes. The strong vibrational couplings typically found in organic molecules will suppress destructive interference and thus favor the dark-state enhancement offered by heterodimers.
Research on predictive current control method of PMSM for continuous switched boost inverter
Authors: Yang Liyong , Han Shuo , Liu Shuo , He Xiaojuan
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the continuous switched boost inverter (CSBI) is used to improve permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) control performance through predictive control, aiming at the drawback of the traditional PMSM drive system. Between the inverted circuit and the input DC power, a switched boost circuit is added to form a switched boost inverter circuit to achieve higher voltage gain and eliminate the dead band. Meanwhile, the drive system has higher reliability. Moreover, the paper adopts predictive current control (PCC) to control PMSM, comparing with the traditional field oriented control (FOC), PCC has faster dynamic performance and reduces current ripple. Finally, the simulation and experimental results verify the feasibility of the based on the continuous switched boost inverter of predictive current control for PMSM.
Influence of transmission distance on magnetically coupled resonant radio energy transmission system
Authors: JUN TONG , Xingchen Yang , Facheng LI , Xiang Li
Published: May 2019

Transmission distance is a key factor in designing a wireless energy transmission system. The change in coil spacing will have a huge impact on the output characteristics of the system.Therefore, this paper theoretically analyzes the mutual inductance model of two coils from the perspective of circuit theory.Studies have shown that coil spacing, impedance, self-inductance, operating frequency, load resistance and many other factors can affect the output characteristics of the system.So, this thesis uses the control variable method to study the relationship between transmission distance and output characteristics, and proposes the optimal output power point.Finally, an experimental prototype was made to verify the feasibility of the method.
Simulation of Relay Coordination by Labview and the Effect of Relay Coordination on Cost
Authors: Çimen Hasan , Akkan Recep , Yabanova İsmail
Published: May 2019

In this study, it is emphasized that simulation of the avoidance of unnecessary energy cuts in a sample electricity distribution network. The electricity cut-off costs can be decreased by ensuring that relay coordination end only at the source of the fault from the point of failure. Over currents are calculated and the sample network is simulated in the LabVIEW environment. The parameters of delayed overcurrent trip setting (I>), instantaneous overcurrent trip setting (I>> ), delayed ground overcurrent trip setting (Io>), instantaneous ground current trip setting (Io>>) are set according to a specific logic in relay coordination. As a result, you can get an idea about how much profit can be made by doing the relay coordination correctly and the amount of unnecessarily avoided energy. It is aimed with the application of this simulation in the real field that electrically operated materials of the people, who are unnecessarily energy-consuming, have less damage and that the energy-selling company loses less money.
Loss Analysis and Optimization Design of Half-Bridge LLC Resonant Converter
Authors: Jun TONG , Facheng LI , Xiang LI , Xingchen YANG
Published: May 2019

The efficiency improvement of switching converters has always been a research hotspot. This paper analyzes the loss of LLC resonant converter including magnetic components loss and Switching loss. For easier analysis, a mathematical model of the switching tube is established, and then derive the formula of the loss. The synchronous rectification technology is used to improve the efficiency of the LLC, and finally established a simulation model to verify the correctness of the technology to improve the efficiency of the converter.
Innovative Design of the Cooling Topologies for Electric Vehicle Motors
Authors: ZI-CHAO ZHANG , QIANG SONG , AHMED BILAL
Published: May 2019

According to the different cooling medium, the electric motor cooling styles can be divided into liquid cooling and air cooling; the former involves water cooling and oil cooling while the latter comprises natural air cooling and forced air cooling. Whereas, the air cooling system is difficult to meet various performance requirements for the modern Electric Vehicle (EV). Therefore, approximately all EV motors are liquid cooled at present. Moreover with the trend of EV motors to Permanent Magnet (PM) and to high speed, for instance, the maximum working rotated speed from 10,000rpm to 20,000 rpm, the packaging of the motor is minimized at same power while efficiency drops, lifetime shorten and even cause demagnetization due to thermal effects without optimum design. Consequently, the improvement of the liquid cooling system is essential to enhance the efficiency of the EV motor in the future for higher power density. In this perspective, the innovative cooling topologies of electric machines based on the development results of the parts such as lubricating oil and motive seal of electric vehicles are presented in this paper. It solves some problems brought about by predecessors in view of the high efficiency and reliability of the motor with higher energy density.
Parameter Tuning of PID Controller of Servo System Based on Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Lianbo Chen , Xinhong Xiong , Yousheng Zheng , Yanhui Zhang , Guoqing Zhang , Xinyu Wu , Wei Feng
Published: May 2019

In order to improve the control precision of permanent magnet synchronous motor servo drive, a Proportional-Integral-Differential (PID) control method based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is proposed. Firstly, the mathematical model of the permanent magnet synchronous motor was established. Then the PSO algorithm was used to adjust the parameters of the PID controller. Finally, the simulation experiment was carried out under the MATLAB/Simulink environment to test its performance. Compared with the traditional manual parameters tuning, the PID controller based on PSO algorithm had better performance and better stability.
A Novel Prediction Algorithm for the Cross Temperature Estimation of Blast Furnace
Authors: Jin Yan , Zhang Sen , Yin YiXin
Published: May 2019

In order to predict the distribution of gas flow, we need to get the temperature of each point in blast furnace throat in advance. In this paper, firstly, two intelligent modeling methods are used to establish a multiple-input multiple-output prediction model, one is extreme learning machine (ELM) algorithm and the other is online sequential extreme learning machine (OS-ELM) algorithm. And the model is a single-step prediction model of temperature in blast furnace, single-step prediction means the prediction of temperature in the next moment. We use autocorrelation analysis to determine input vector and output vector of the model. The result of autocorrelation analysis indicates that the method of temperature sequence prediction has a higher prediction accuracy and better prediction stability than the method of single point prediction. Next, based on real industrial data, we make a comparison between the multiple - input multiple-output model and least squares support vector machines (LS-SVM) model used in common. The experiment results show that OS-ELM model has a better forecast effect than the ELM model and LS-SVM model.
Analysis of Misalignment Effect on Wireless Charging System for Inspection Robots
Authors: Liu Han , Tan Linlin , Huang Xueliang , Czarkowski Dariusz
Published: May 2019

To solve the issues including the inflexibility, connector wear, and electric shock risk in contact charging system for inspection robots, the wireless charging system for inspection robots is introduced in this paper. The circuit model of this paper is developed based on the mutual inductance theory. The expressions of the receiving power and the efficiency are derived. The coordinate calculation method for mutual inductance between non-coaxial rectangular spiral coils according to the movement characteristics of inspection robot is presented. According to the calculation method, the characteristics of the receiving power and the efficiency varying with the position change of the receiving coil are investigated. The location of the positioning device for starting the wireless charging system can be selected based on the system characteristics. The theoretical analysis is verified by experiments.
Short Text Classification Improved by Feature Space Extension
Authors: Li Yanxuan
Published: May 2019

With the explosive development of mobile Internet, short text has been applied extensively. The difference between classifying short text and long documents is that short text is of shortness and sparsity. Thus, it is challenging to deal with short text classification owing to its less semantic information. In this paper, we propose a novel topic-based convolutional neural network (TB-CNN) based on Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model and convolutional neural network. Comparing to traditional CNN methods, TB-CNN generates topic words with LDA model to reduce the sparseness and combines the embedding vectors of topic words and input words to extend feature space of short text. The validation results on IMDB movie review dataset show the improvement and effectiveness of TB-CNN.
Detection of Android Applications Homology Based on the Authors’ Programming Style
Authors: Xu Jiayu
Published: May 2019

As the mobile internet playing an increasingly important role in people’s daily life, the copyright issue of Android applications attaches more and more attentions. Because Android applications are vulnerable to reverse engineering, there are many criminals illegally modify and re-sign the official android for their own interests, which has seriously damaged the user’s rights and disturbed the order of the mobile internet. In this paper, a novel detects method of Android applications similarity based on the authors’ programming style is described. In the proposed method, we firstly extract a series of basic features that can represent the programming style of author. Considering that the features selected manually are highly subjective, we tried ICA, PCA and LDA to optimize the features. Ultimately, an Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) model is trained with sequences of feature vectors. The results of experiments demonstrate that our proposed method has better performance than string comparison and grammar tree analysis when fighting against variable substitution, insert independent statement and data stream confusion.
Real-time Measurement, Computing and Visualization of Plant Structure
Authors: Li Guo , Qian Tingting , Lu Shenglian
Published: May 2019

A method and software tool for measuring and reconstructing small plant in real time was presented. The key of this method lies in the feature points measuring with 3D digitizer and organ templates-based details 3D reconstructing. Firstly, several feature points were selected and measured by using a digitizer from the targeted plant. Then the morphological parameters of this plant could be calculated from these feature points, with its skeleton model was reconstructed in the process of measuring. For a details 3D reconstruction of the plant structure, organ’s 3D template was used, which was created by using 3D point cloud data measured from real plant organs, or created with interactive designing. This method has been tested in many plants, including crops and small fruit trees. The experiment results indicated that the proposed method is suitable for real-time measurement and multi-scale structural modeling of small plants.
Efficient Small Object Detection with an Improved Region Proposal Networks
Authors: Ma Dong Wen , Wu Xiao Jun , Yang Honghong
Published: May 2019

Although the state-of-the-art object detection methods, which depend on region proposal algorithms to hypothesize object locations, have achieved high detection accuracy, it still struggles in small-size object detection. In this paper, we present a novel method with a multi-scale and multi-tasking region proposal method to effectively detect small object. In the proposed method, multi-scale features and high-level features are employed to locate object position and identify object category, respectively. The main contributions of the proposed approach are two-fold: (1) A simpler way is used to improve the accuracy performance of small object detection, instead of the complex image pyramids and the complex combination framework, and make the object detection task more flexible. (2) Based on multi-scale and multi-tasking approaches, object location information in low layers and object semantic information in deep layers are made fully advantage respectively. The experimental results on the PASCAL VOC dataset show that the proposed method achieves the state-of-the art object detection accuracy.
Recent global and regional trends in burned area and their compensating environmental controls
Authors: Forkel Matthias , Dorigo Wouter , Lasslop Gitta , Chuvieco Emilio , Hantson Stijn , Heil Angelika , Teubner Irene , Thonicke Kirsten , Harrison Sandy P
Published: May 2019

The apparent decline in the global incidence of fire between 1996 and 2015, as measured by satellite-observations of burned area, has been related to socioeconomic and land use changes. However, recent decades have also seen changes in climate and vegetation that influence fire and fire-enabled vegetation models do not reproduce the apparent decline. Given that the satellite-derived burned area datasets are still relatively short (<20 years), this raises questions both about the robustness of the apparent decline and what causes it. We use two global satellite-derived burned area datasets and a data-driven fire model to (1) assess the spatio-temporal robustness of the burned area trends and (2) to relate the trends to underlying changes in temperature, precipitation, human population density and vegetation conditions. Although the satellite datasets and simulation all show a decline in global burned area over ~20 years, the trend is not significant and is strongly affected by the start and end year chosen for trend analysis and the year-to-year variability in burned area. The global and regional trends shown by the two satellite datasets are poorly correlated for the common overlapping period (2001–2015) and the fire model simulates changes in global and regional burned area that lie within the uncertainties of the satellite datasets. The model simulations show that recent increases in temperature would lead to increased burned area but this effect is compensated by increasing wetness or increases in population, both of which lead to declining burned area. Increases in vegetation cover and density associated with recent greening trends lead to increased burned area in fuel-limited regions. Our analyses show that global and regional burned area trends result from the interaction of compensating trends in controls of wildfire at regional scales.
Doping and alloying of kesterites
Authors: Romanyuk Yaroslav E , Haass Stefan G , Giraldo Sergio , Placidi Marcel , Tiwari Devendra , Fermin David J , Hao Xiaojing , Xin Hao , Schnabel Thomas , Kauk-Kuusik Marit , Pistor Paul , Lie Stener , Wong Lydia H
Published: May 2019

Attempts to improve the efficiency of kesterite solar cells by changing the intrinsic stoichiometry have not helped to boost the device efficiency beyond the current record of 12.6%. In this light, the addition of extrinsic elements to the Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 matrix in various quantities has emerged as a popular topic aiming to ameliorate electronic properties of the solar cell absorbers. This article reviews extrinsic doping and alloying concepts for kesterite absorbers with the focus on those that do not alter the parent zinc-blende derived kesterite structure. The latest state-of-the-art of possible extrinsic elements is presented in the order of groups of the periodic table. The highest reported solar cell efficiencies for each extrinsic dopant are tabulated at the end. Several dopants like alkali elements and substitutional alloying with Ag, Cd or Ge have been shown to improve the device performance of kesterite solar cells as compared to the nominally undoped references, although it is often difficult to differentiate between pure electronic effects and other possible influences such as changes in the crystallization path, deviations in matrix composition and presence of alkali dopants coming from the substrates. The review is concluded with a suggestion to intensify efforts for identifying intrinsic defects that negatively affect electronic properties of the kesterite absorbers, and, if identified, to test extrinsic strategies that may compensate these defects. Characterization techniques must be developed and widely used to reliably access semiconductor absorber metrics such as the quasi-Fermi level splitting, defect concentration and their energetic position, and carrier lifetime in order to assist in search for effective doping/alloying strategies.
Joanne S. Tornow: Advancing Opportunities for Convergence
Authors: Verdier James M
Published: May 2019

Joanne S. Tornow was selected as assistant director for the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO) in February 2019, following almost two decades with the foundation. Her duties ranged from program management to high-level leadership and strategic development, and she previously served as the head of BIO in an interim capacity. Prior to her time at the NSF, Tornow served on the faculty at Portland State University and the University of Southern Mississippi. James M. Verdier interviewed her about the directorate's current operations and future plans in March 2019. An audio version of this conversation can be found as a part of the American Institute of Biological Science's podcast series, BioScience Talks, available at http://bioscienceaibs.libsyn.com. Both versions have been edited for clarity.
Arthroscopic primary repair of the anterior cruciate ligament in adults: a systematic review
Authors: Papalia Rocco , Torre Guglielmo , Papalia Giuseppe , Campi Stefano , Maffulli Nicola , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: May 2019

Background

The most common procedure to manage a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is surgical reconstruction. Primary repair of the ACL is returning on the forefront in the management of acute ACL, aiming to be less invasive and preserve the original ligament. Several techniques have been reported; the present systematic review investigates the clinical outcomes of ACL primary repair in adults.

Sources of data

Following an electronic search through Medline, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases, articles of interest were retrieved and evaluated, including case series, retrospective studies, case-control studies and randomized controlled trials. The main outcome data were extracted and summarized in tables and text. The methodology of the studies was assessed using the Coleman methodology score (CMS).

Areas of agreement

Of the articles included, one was of level I, two of level III and the remaining of level IV. The direct intraligamentary stabilization technique was the most widely and accurately reported technique, with acceptable success and improvement of functional outcomes. The CMS averaged 58.75 (range 48 to 69), with no significant association with year of publication (Pearson’s regression r = −0.397, P = 0.207).

Areas of controversy

Concerning stump sutures and suture anchors repair, although leading to good results, also in comparison with ACL reconstruction, no sufficient evidence was available to support these techniques.

Growing points

The overall good results were reported also for other techniques are not supported by adequate evidence. More and better trials are required to improve our knowledge and understanding in this controversial area.
Neuronal Activity Drives Astroglial Connexin 30 in Perisynaptic Processes and Shapes Its Functions
Authors: Ghézali Grégory , Vasile Flora , Curry Nathan , Fantham Marcus , Cheung Giselle , Ezan Pascal , Cohen-Salmon Martine , Kaminski Clemens , Rouach Nathalie
Published: May 2019

Astrocytes play key roles in brain functions through dynamic interactions with neurons. One of their typical features is to express high levels of connexins (Cxs), Cx43 and Cx30, the gap junction (GJ)-forming proteins. Cx30 is involved in basic cognitive processes and shapes synaptic and network activities, as shown by recent studies in transgenic animals. Yet it remains unknown whether astroglial Cx30 expression, localization, and functions are endogenously and dynamically regulated by neuronal activity and could therefore play physiological roles in neurotransmission. We here show that neuronal activity increased hippocampal Cx30 protein levels via a posttranslational mechanism regulating lysosomal degradation. Neuronal activity also increased Cx30 protein levels at membranes and perisynaptic processes, as revealed by superresolution imaging. This translated at the functional level in the activation of Cx30 hemichannels and in Cx30-mediated remodeling of astrocyte morphology independently of GJ biochemical coupling. Altogether, these data show activity-dependent dynamics of Cx30 expression, perisynaptic localization, and functions.
The entwined futures of financialisation and cities
Authors: Gupta Priya S
Published: May 2019

This article considers the future of financialisation as it is entwined with that of cities. It poses the question of how cities can regulate financialisation. ‘Financialization’ is understood here to encompass the myriad of social, economic, legal and political dimensions of the transition from industrial capitalism to finance capitalism. This transition implicates the financial sector and their motives as well as the new roles that financial ideas play in everyday lives. That new role for finance has been understood to be a ‘normative order of reason’ that informs public decision-making and governance. While the efforts of national and transnational law to regulate the financial sector have been studied, there has been far less focus on local governments. Local governments, however, play a crucial role in how financial capitalism takes hold through their regulation of real estate and urban space (real estate being a key current engine of financial markets). Local governments mediate the ways that finance takes hold in cities and the built environment and the way that those transformations exclude certain populations. In short, they mediate the ‘spatialization’ of finance. This triangular constitution of local governance, financialisation and urban space can be observed in the shrinking of public space. The article first examines the relationship between public space and democracy, and the role of law as the underlying structure that allocates urban space towards the use of the public or the use of private real estate actors. This engagement demonstrates how urban space is a key site of financialisation’s dual dimensionality: as a sector with material accumulation of resources and as a constellation of rationalities and cultures. The article then turns to a discussion of city efforts to regulate the financial sector, and popular resistance to the ideologies of finance. Through that examination, this article hopes to demonstrate that efforts to regulate the financial sector are only one level on which to regulate financialisation. ‘Regulation’ here becomes a complex endeavour, requiring an engagement with the modes of reasoning and culture promulgated by financialisation as well as the financial sector and its activities.
Biochemical and biological validations of a faecal glucocorticoid metabolite assay in mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx)
Authors: Lavin Shana R , Woodruff Miles C , Atencia Rebeca , Cox Debby , Woodruff Glenn T , Setchell Joanna M , Wheaton Catharine J
Published: May 2019

Stress is a major factor in determining success when releasing endangered species into the wild but is often overlooked. Mandrills (Mandrills sphinx) are vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and demand for bush meat and the pet trade. To help bolster in situ populations, rehabilitated rescued mandrills recently were released into a protected area in the Republic of Congo. The goal of this study was to validate the use of faecal glucocorticoid metabolite enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) in mandrills and test field-friendly faecal hormone extraction techniques that can subsequently be used to monitor the stress physiology and welfare of mandrills throughout the release process. Using faecal samples collected from ex situ mandrills, we tested cortisol, corticosterone, 11β-hydroxyetiocholanolone (69a), and 11-oxoetiocholanolone EIAs. Absolute concentrations, hormone profiles following medical procedures or translocation, and high-performance liquid chromatography fraction immunoreactivity showed that the 69a assay was the best choice to monitor the stress response in this species. Samples with delayed extraction or drying times had 40–80% lower 69a concentrations than samples extracted immediately post-collection and frozen. The 69a EIA is an appropriate assay for monitoring welfare in this species in situ or ex situ, and results indicated that consistent extraction methods are important for accurate comparisons.
H.M. Hyndman and the Intellectual Origins of the Remaking of Socialism in Britain, 1878–1881
Authors: Flaherty Seamus
Published: May 2019

In recent years, the historiography of late nineteenth-century British Socialism has reached a new level of sophistication. The determinism and essentialism that typified much of the work on the subject prior to the so-called linguistic turn in social history has been decisively dropped. This article, however, argues that the influence of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels still persists in two crucial respects. Firstly, it suggests that historians continue to take their lead from Marx in pinpointing the start of the Socialist movement; and second, it posits that historians also continue to follow Engels by describing the political beliefs of H.M. Hyndman as belonging to an intellectual tradition of Tory Radicalism. This article argues that, partly as a consequence of that first error, historians have overlooked the small but crucial burst of articles on the topic of Socialism published in the periodical press between 1878 and 1880. It also claims that, contrary to the historiographical consensus, Hyndman was not an ‘ex-Conservative’ or Radical of Tory inclination. It demonstrates, rather, that Hyndman’s ideological heritage was overwhelmingly Liberal. It situates Hyndman’s first article on Socialism against the anterior discussion in the periodical press. The article reveals how Hyndman’s intervention was indebted to the arguments previously advanced by J.S. Mill, Henry Fawcett, and William Cunningham. It posits, furthermore, that once it is recognised that the writings of Mill, Fawcett and other Liberals occupied a central place in Hyndman’s political imagination a number of other features of Hyndman’s political thought also fall into place.
Complex segmentectomy in the treatment of stage IA non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Handa Yoshinori , Tsutani Yasuhiro , Mimae Takahiro , Miyata Yoshihiro , Okada Morihito
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES

Although segmentectomy for lung cancer has been widely accepted, complex segmentectomy, which creates several, intricate intersegmental planes, remains controversial. Potential arguments include risk of incurability and ‘failure of cancer control’. We compared the outcomes of complex segmentectomy versus lobectomy and evaluated its use in lung cancer treatment.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed clinical stage IA lung cancer patients who underwent complex segmentectomy (n = 99) or location-adjusted lobectomy (n = 94) between April 2009 and December 2017. Clinicopathological and postoperative results were compared. Factors affecting survival were assessed by the Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

No significant differences were detected in 30-day mortality (0% vs 0%), overall complications (26.3% vs 21.3%) and prolonged air leakage (11.1% vs 9.6%) rates between the 2 groups, respectively. Comparable results were obtained for 5-year overall (93.5% vs 96.4%, respectively; P = 0.21) or recurrence-free (92.3% vs 88.5%, respectively; P = 0.82) survivals after complex segmentectomy or lobectomy. There were 2 (2.0%) recurrences after complex segmentectomy and 7 (7.5%) after lobectomy (P = 0.094), with 0 (0%) margin relapses in each group. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that complex segmentectomy and lobectomy had a numerically similar impact on recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio 0.93, 95% confidence interval 0.32–2.69; P = 0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Complex segmentectomy can provide acceptable short- and long-term outcomes in lung cancer treatment.
Trends and results of oesophageal cancer surgery in Finland between 2004 and 2014
Authors: Helminen Olli , Sihvo Eero , Gunn Jarmo , Sipilä Jussi O T , Rautava Päivi , Kytö Ville
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES

Few population-based studies reporting trends in oesophageal cancer surgery exist. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of oesophageal cancer, changes in resection rates, patient demographics and short- and long-term outcomes of oesophagectomy at the population level in Finland.

METHODS

All Finnish patients diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus or gastrooesophageal junction between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2014 identified from the nationwide registries were included. The follow-up ended on 31 December 2016. For evaluation of changes in demographics and treatment, data were divided into 2 periods: 2004–2009 and 2010–2014. For comparison of short-and long-term outcomes, adjustments for age, sex, comorbidity, tumour stage and histology were used.

RESULTS

The number of diagnosed oesophageal cancers was 4266. Of these, 740 underwent oesophagectomy. Resection rate increased from 15.2% in 2004–2009 to 19.6% in 2010–2014. The median number of oesophagectomies in Finnish hospitals increased from 1.9 to 3.7 per hospital per year. At the same time, minimally invasive surgery became more common (6.3% vs 35.1%, P < 0.0001) and a trend for increase in neoadjuvant treatment was observed (46.8% vs 53.8%, P = 0.0582). The rate of type III anastomosis leaks and conduit necroses was 5.1% without differences in time periods. Three-year [52.4% vs 61.6%, adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.59–0.95] and 5-year survival (42.1% vs 56.5%, adjusted HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.57–0.87) improved.

CONCLUSIONS

This nationwide population-based study demonstrates an increase in resection rate, use of neoadjuvant treatment and minimally invasive surgery together with an improvement in long-term outcome after oesophageal cancer surgery.
Save the Injured – Don’t Kill IHL: Rejecting Absolute Immunity for ‘Shielding Hospitals’
Authors: Beer Yishai
Published: May 2019

This article is a response to Neve Gordon and Nicola Perugini’s thought-provoking article, ‘“Hospital Shields” and the Limits of International Law’, published in this issue. The authors advocate reforming the law to allow hospitals absolute protection, even in cases where they are also used by combatants for military purposes that are harmful to their adversary (‘shielding hospitals’). Defining the contour of the desired protection for hospitals should start with both the institutional and personal attributes justifying their special protection as well as with the empirical data relating to the prevalence of attacks on hospitals – who and what triggers them. Against this background, this reply presents the prevailing law that grants strong protection to hospitals, albeit a contingent one that may be removed in exceptional cases of their abuse. It advocates retaining the contingent protection, though with some adjustments, and argues that the suggested absolute protection – in fact, immunity – for shielding hospitals is neither feasible nor normatively desirable. It would damage the current balance and rationale of the entire body of international humanitarian law in general and have a counter-effect upon the treatment of the sick and wounded in particular. Contrary to its apparent humanitarian rationale, absolute immunity for shielding hospitals would damage their ability to function as medical institutions and allow an adversary who controls a hospital full discretion in selecting its priorities regarding the use of its space and resources and might turn the sick and wounded into a means of warfare.
Anaerobic methanotrophic archaea of the ANME-2d clade feature lipid composition that differs from other ANME archaea
Authors: Kurth Julia M , Smit Nadine T , Berger Stefanie , Schouten Stefan , Jetten Mike S M , Welte Cornelia U
Published: May 2019

The anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) is a microbial process present in marine and freshwater environments. AOM is important for reducing the emission of the second most important greenhouse gas methane. In marine environments anaerobic methanotrophic archaea (ANME) are involved in sulfate-reducing AOM. In contrast, Ca. Methanoperedens of the ANME-2d cluster carries out nitrate AOM in freshwater ecosystems. Despite the importance of those organisms for AOM in non-marine environments little is known about their lipid composition or carbon sources. To close this gap, we analysed the lipid composition of ANME-2d archaea and found that they mainly synthesise archaeol and hydroxyarchaeol as well as different (hydroxy-) glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers, albeit in much lower amounts. Abundant lipid headgroups were dihexose, monomethyl-phosphatidyl ethanolamine and phosphatidyl hexose. Moreover, a monopentose was detected as a lipid headgroup that is rare among microorganisms. Batch incubations with 13C labelled bicarbonate and methane showed that methane is the main carbon source of ANME-2d archaea varying from ANME-1 archaea that primarily assimilate dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). ANME-2d archaea also assimilate DIC, but to a lower extent than methane. The lipid characterisation and analysis of the carbon source of Ca. Methanoperedens facilitates distinction between ANME-2d and other ANMEs.
Change in Retirement Plans Among Midlife Couples During an Economic Recession
Authors: Yorgason Jeremy B , Segel-Karpas Dikla , Wheeler Brandan E , Malig Canlas Jerevie , Smith Jamie
Published: May 2019

Objective

Although research has investigated financial planning for retirement, less is known about how adults plan their retirement activities. Even less is known about couples’ congruence and incongruence in retirement activities planning. The authors examined husband and wife reports of retirement plans across a 5-year period that involved a U.S. economic recession.

Method

Using data from 335 midlife couples who participated in the Flourishing Families project, retirement plans were grouped into five categories—family, leisure, volunteer, work, and uncertain. We estimated probit dyadic structural equation models to explore longitudinal predictors of retirement plans.

Results

Results indicated mean differences in retirement plans between husbands and wives, and also across time that might have been influenced by surrounding economics. Wife poor health, number of children, both spouses working, and financial assets were linked with the likelihood of reporting certainty in retirement plans. Greater retirement uncertainty was predicted by lower marital quality, higher financial adjustments, lower education, and ethnic diversity.

Conclusion

Husband and wife reports of retirement plans are not always congruent, and plans in retirement can be affected by large scale changes in the U.S. economy.
Over-optimization of academic publishing metrics: observing Goodhart's Law in action
Authors: Fire Michael , Guestrin Carlos
Published: May 2019

Background

The academic publishing world is changing significantly, with ever-growing numbers of publications each year and shifting publishing patterns. However, the metrics used to measure academic success, such as the number of publications, citation number, and impact factor, have not changed for decades. Moreover, recent studies indicate that these metrics have become targets and follow Goodhart's Law, according to which, “when a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure.”

Results

In this study, we analyzed >120 million papers to examine how the academic publishing world has evolved over the last century, with a deeper look into the specific field of biology. Our study shows that the validity of citation-based measures is being compromised and their usefulness is lessening. In particular, the number of publications has ceased to be a good metric as a result of longer author lists, shorter papers, and surging publication numbers. Citation-based metrics, such citation number and h-index, are likewise affected by the flood of papers, self-citations, and lengthy reference lists. Measures such as a journal's impact factor have also ceased to be good metrics due to the soaring numbers of papers that are published in top journals, particularly from the same pool of authors. Moreover, by analyzing properties of >2,600 research fields, we observed that citation-based metrics are not beneficial for comparing researchers in different fields, or even in the same department.

Conclusions

Academic publishing has changed considerably; now we need to reconsider how we measure success.
Investigating the nature of competition facing private healthcare facilities: the case of maternity care in Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Gautham Meenakshi , Bruxvoort Katia , Iles Richard , Subharwal Manish , Gupta Sanjay , Jain Manish , Goodman Catherine
Published: May 2019

The private healthcare sector in low- and middle-income countries is increasingly seen as of public health importance, with widespread interest in improving private provider engagement. However, there is relatively little literature providing an in-depth understanding of the operation of private providers. We conducted a mixed methods analysis of the nature of competition faced by private delivery providers in Uttar Pradesh, India, where maternal mortality remains very high. We mapped health facilities in five contrasting districts, surveyed private facilities providing deliveries and conducted in-depth interviews with facility staff, allied providers (e.g. ambulance drivers, pathology laboratories) and other key informants. Over 3800 private facilities were mapped, of which 8% reported providing deliveries, mostly clustered in cities and larger towns. 89% of delivery facilities provided C-sections, but over half were not registered. Facilities were generally small, and the majority were independently owned, mostly by medical doctors and, to a lesser extent, AYUSH (non-biomedical) providers and others without formal qualifications. Recent growth in facility numbers had led to intense competition, particularly among mid-level facilities where customers were more price sensitive. In all facilities, nearly all payment was out-of-pocket, with very low-insurance coverage. Non-price competition was a key feature of the market and included location (preferably on highways or close to government facilities), medical infrastructure, hotel features, staff qualifications and reputation, and marketing. There was heavy reliance on visiting consultants such as obstetricians, surgeons and anaesthetists, and payment of hefty commission payments to agents who brought clients to the facility, for both new patients and those transferring from public facilities. Building on these insights, strategies for private sector engagement could include a foundation of universal facility registration, adaptation of accreditation schemes to lower-level facilities, improved third-party payment mechanisms and strategic purchasing, and enhanced patient information on facility availability, costs and quality.
Gimme shelter or fade away: the impact of regional entrepreneurial ecosystem quality on venture survival
Authors: Vedula Siddharth , Kim Phillip H
Published: May 2019

Our study addresses a popular question in entrepreneurship research—to what extent does the quality of a region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem matter for venture survival? To tackle this question, we created a regional entrepreneurial ecosystem quality index based on five key characteristics: supportive entrepreneurial culture, access to finance, availability of human capital, innovation capacity, and formal support organizations. We analyze 301 United States Metropolitan Statistical Areas for these characteristics and measure the aggregated contextual influence on venture survival within these regions over time. In addition to analyzing the relationship between this index and venture survival, we also consider the moderating role of founders’ experience on survival outcomes. Our findings confirm that, in general, higher quality ecosystems shelter ventures, while ventures in weaker ecosystems are more likely to fade away and fail. However, for serial entrepreneurs, we find that ecosystem quality has a much smaller impact on venture survival.