bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroprevalence and risk factors for bovine brucellosis in the Chittagong Metropolitan Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Shariful , Barua Shama Ranjan , Moni Shahnaj Parvin , Islam Ariful , Rahman A. K. M. Anisur , Chowdhury Sharmin
Published: September 2020

Brucellosis is a neglected endemic zoonosis in Bangladesh and has a significant impact on public health and animal welfare of dairy farming as well as dairy farm economics. A cross‐sectional study was conducted to evaluate the seroprevalence of and risk factors for brucellosis in dairy cattle in the Chittagong metropolitan area (CMA) of Chittagong, Bangladesh. We collected serum samples (n = 158) from six randomly selected dairy farms in the CMA between February and November, 2015. The Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and a competitive ELISA (cELISA) were used as the screening and confirmatory tests respectively. Farm level and animal level demographic and risk factor data were collected using a questionnaire. The risk factors were analysed using a multivariable logistic regression with random effects. The overall seroprevalences of antibodies against brucellosis in cattle were 21.5% (34/158) and 7.6% (12/158) based on parallel and serial interpretation of the two tests respectively. Our results revealed that 20.3% (32/158) samples were positive using the RBPT and 8.9% (14/158) were positive using the cELISA. The within‐herd seroprevalence ranged from 10% to 26.3% and 5 to 20.7% using the RBPT and cELISA tests respectively. The odds of seropositivity were significantly higher in lactating cows (OR: 2.59; 95% CI: 1.02–6.55), cows producing less than 2 litres of milk (OR: 29.6; 95% CI: 4.3–353.8), cow producing 2–12 litres of milk (OR: 4.8; 95% CI: 1.1–33.4) and cows with reproductive disorders (OR: 3.2; 95% CI: 1.2–10.1). About 7.6% (12/158) and 1.3% (2/158) of cattle were found to be infected with acute and chronic brucellosis respectively. Based on these results, we suggest that cows that have reproductive disorders and are producing little milk should be prioritized for brucellosis screening in CMA. The screening tests should be used to control brucellosis in cattle in order to protect animal welfare, human health and to minimize the economic losses.
Effects of two‐dose intravenous administration of furosemide on clinical variables, electrocardiographic indices and serum electrolytes in dromedary calves
Authors: Samimi Amir Saeed , Sanjarinejad Ali
Published: September 2020

The intravenous (IV) usage of diuretic agents such as furosemide may cause changes in clinical signs, electrocardiographic (ECG) indices and serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium) concentrations in dromedary calves. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical, ECG and biochemical effects of two‐dose IV administration of furosemide in dromedary calves. A total of 21 clinically healthy male dromedary calves with the age of 5 (± 1) months and weight of 95 (± 5) kg were studied. The animals were randomly divided into three groups of control (normal saline), low‐dose furosemide (2.5 mg/kg) and high‐dose furosemide (5 mg/kg). Two IV injections with 12‐hr intervals were administered in all animals. The clinical and ECG parameters were measured at 0 (baseline), 2 (T2), 24 (T24) and 48 (T48) hours after drug administration. Serum concentrations of electrolytes were measured at T0, T24 and T48 hr. The results of this study showed no changes in clinical parameters (heart rate, rectal temperature, respiratory rate and Unruminal motility), ECG indices and also no significant changes in serum electrolytes levels. Under conditions with free access to fresh water, two‐dose IV injection of furosemide (2.5 and 5 mg/kg) could be administered in healthy dromedary calves.
Data Collection Using Wireless Sensor Networks and Online Visualization for Kitui Kenya
Authors: Mbandi Josephine , Kisangari Michael
Published: September 2020

Kenya is a developing country with a population of 47,213,282 people this comprises of 56% low-income earners. Small businesses and crop production represent 23% of the income within the country, which is at risk as soils become less productive. Various factors have led to this, climate change and land overuse being leading causes. Without adaptation, the rural to urban migration will continue to increase.

Through Internet of Things (IoT) and specifically wireless sensor networks, we can change how we obtain and consume information. Small-scale farmers can collect data and in exchange receive useful information about their soils, temperature, humidity, and moisture content hence make better choices during crop production. Connected end devices bring in data, which is currently sparse in relation to small-scale farming. IoT will enable analysis and informed decision-making including crop selection, support equipment, fertilizers, irrigation, and harvesting. The cloud-based analysis will provide information useful for policy making and improvement.

This paper presents a wireless sensor network (WSN) in mesh topography using XBee communication module, communication, and raspberry pi, combined with a cloud-based data storage and analysis. We successfully set up a proof of concept to test a sensor node that sends information to a RPi and onto an online visualization platform.
Agile Transformation: How Employees Experience and Cope with Transformative Change
Authors: Koutsikouri Dina , Madsen Sabine , Lindström Nataliya Berbyuk
Published: September 2020

Modern manufacturing is highly competitive, requiring that organizations reduce lead times and achieve greater organizational flexibility, for example by implementing agile ways of working. However, studies show that incumbent firms have persistent problems with adopting and scaling such practices. In this paper, we present an empirical account of agile transformation in a large manufacturing company that has adopted the SAFe framework. Based on interviews, focus groups, and observation data, we identify three themes for understanding how employees experience and cope with transformative change by: 1) making sense of the new, 2) practicing with peers and 3) letting go of legacy. Key findings are that initially employees are more concerned with making sense of the new rather than with the implementation of agile itself and that implementation of agile happens very gradually over time rather than through major breakthroughs. Thus, it takes time for employees to weather change, become acquainted with the new way of working and stabilize how they work together in the agile teams and across the ARTs (Agile Release Trains). We contribute to extant literature with insight into the human implications of agile transformation.
Strategy-Focused Agile Transformation: A Case Study
Authors: Sharp Helen , Taylor Katie
Published: September 2020

Strategic agility enables an organisation to sense and seize opportunities, manage uncertainty and adapt to changes. This paper presents one case study of a traditional charitable organisation taking a strategy-focused approach to agile transformation. Interview data was collected over a 13-month period through interviews at different stages and with different members of the transformation team and Heads of Department. This case study illustrates the challenges faced in such a transformation, and shows that strategic agility requires different time horizons to co-exist: a future vision, a medium term set of objectives and a short term performance monitoring perspective.
Understanding Work Practices of Autonomous Agile Teams: A Social-psychological Review
Authors: Gren Lucas
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this paper is to suggest additional aspects of social psychology that could help when making sense of autonomous agile teams. To make use of well-tested theories in social psychology and instead see how they replicated and differ in the autonomous agile team context would avoid reinventing the wheel. This was done, as an initial step, through looking at some very common agile practices and relate them to existing findings in social-psychological research. The two theories found that I argue could be more applied to the software engineering context are social identity theory and group socialization theory. The results show that literature provides social-psychological reasons for the popularity of some agile practices, but that scientific studies are needed to gather empirical evidence on these under-researched topics. Understanding deeper psychological theories could provide a better understanding of the psychological processes when building autonomous agile team, which could then lead to better predictability and intervention in relation to human factors.
API Utilization and Monetization in Finnish Industries
Authors: Heshmatisafa Saeid , Seppänen Marko
Published: September 2020

Many companies have followed the trend toward exposing their business assets through open (i.e., Web) application programming interfaces (APIs). However, these firms appear to have adopted API technology largely to meet their customers’ needs and demands. The pressures on industries to develop, implement, and maintain API products and services can prevent companies from gaining a greater awareness of API development’s benefits. Firms may thus miss out on related monetary or non-monetary exploitation of their business assets.

This study explored the status of the API economy and development among Finnish industries. The dataset comprised publicly available information from 226 private and public organizations representing a variety of industries, such as industrial, consumer goods, and services sectors. The current status of API readiness, types, protocols, and monetization models is presented to provide a more comprehensive overview.
Forming and Assessing Student Teams in Software Engineering Courses
Authors: Løvold Henrik Hillestad , Lindsjørn Yngve , Stray Viktoria
Published: September 2020

In software development projects, working in teams is essential. Therefore, software engineering courses often require the students to be working in teams to learn about team work behaviors and practices. The instructors of software engineering courses are presented with several challenges when teaching courses that require teamwork. For example, how to form high-performing student teams, and how to assess their work. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether there are differences in performance whether the students form the teams themselves, or if the teams are formed by the instructor. We evaluated a course involving agile software development by 200 students working in 39 teams. A total of 76% of the students chose to form their own teams, the remaining 24% were placed in teams by the instructors. Our findings indicate that teams formed by the students perform slightly better than the teams formed by the instructors.
Transarterial embolisation is associated with improved survival in patients with pelvic fracture: propensity score matching analyses
Authors: Kim Hohyun , Jeon Chang Ho , Kim Jae Hun , Sun Hyun-Woo , Ryu Dongyeon , Lee Kang Ho , Park Chan Ik , Jang Jae Hoon , Park Sung Jin , Yeom Seok Ran
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Transarterial embolisation (TAE) is an effective intervention for management of arterial haemorrhage associated with pelvic fracture. However, its effects on survival and clinical outcomes are unclear.

Methods

Trauma patients with survival data between November 2015 and December 2019 were identified using a trauma database. Patients were divided between TAE and non-TAE groups, and a propensity score was developed using multivariate logistic regression. Survival at 28 days was compared between the groups after propensity score matching.

Results

Among 881 patients included in this study, 308 (35.0%) were treated with TAE. After propensity score matching, 130 pairs were selected. Survival at 28 days was significantly higher among patients treated with TAE than among those treated without TAE [122 (93.9%) vs. 112 (86.2%); odds ratio = 2.45; 95% CI 1.02–5.86; p = 0.039].

Conclusions

TAE use was associated with improved survival at 28 days in patients with pelvic fracture and should therefore be considered in the management of severely injured patients with pelvic fracture.
Impact of phosphodiesterases PDE3 and PDE4 on 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor4-mediated increase of cAMP in human atrial fibrillation
Authors: Dolce Bernardo , Christ Torsten , Grammatika Pavlidou Nefeli , Yildirim Yalin , Reichenspurner Hermann , Eschenhagen Thomas , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Kaumann Alberto J , Molina Cristina E
Published: September 2020

Atrial fibrillation (AF)–associated remodeling includes contractile dysfunction whose reasons are only partially resolved. Serotonin (5-HT) increases contractile force and causes arrhythmias in atrial trabeculae from patients in sinus rhythm (SR). In persistent atrial fibrillation (peAF), the force responses to 5-HT are blunted and arrhythmic effects are abolished. Since force but not arrhythmic responses to 5-HT in peAF could be restored by PDE3 + PDE4 inhibition, we sought to perform real-time measurements of cAMP to understand whether peAF alters PDE3 + PDE4-mediated compartmentation of 5-HT4 receptor-cAMP responses. Isolated human atrial myocytes from patients in SR, with paroxysmal AF (paAF) or peAF, were adenovirally transduced to express the FRET-based cAMP sensor Epac1-camps. Forty-eight hours later, cAMP responses to 5-HT (100 μM) were measured in the absence or concomitant presence of the PDE3 inhibitor cilostamide (0.3 μM) and the PDE4 inhibitor rolipram (1 μM). We successfully established real-time cAMP imaging in AF myocytes. 5-HT increased cAMP in SR, paAF, and peAF, but in line with previous findings on contractility, this increase was considerably smaller in peAF than in SR or paAF. The maximal cAMP response to forskolin (10 μM) was preserved in all groups. The diminished cAMP response to 5-HT in peAF was recovered by preincubation with cilostamide + rolipram. We uncovered a significantly diminished cAMP response to 5-HT4 receptor stimulation which may explain the blunted 5-HT inotropic responses observed in peAF. Since both cAMP and force responses but not arrhythmic responses were recovered after concomitant inhibition of PDE3 + PDE4, they might be regulated in different subcellular microdomains.
A phase I, randomized, single-dose pharmacokinetic study comparing sb8 (bevacizumab biosimilar) with reference bevacizumab in healthy volunteers
Authors: Shin Donghoon , Lee Yoon Jung , Choi Jihye , Lee Dahyoung , Park Minjeong , Petkova Magdalena
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To compare pharmacokinetics, safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity between SB8, a bevacizumab biosimilar, and the European Union (EU) and United States (US) reference products (bevacizumab-EU, bevacizumab-US).

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, and single-dose study, healthy volunteers were randomized to receive a 3 mg/kg dose of SB8, bevacizumab-EU, or bevacizumab-US via intravenous infusion. Primary endpoints were area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to infinity (AUCinf) and to the last quantifiable concentration (AUClast), and maximum observed serum concentration (Cmax). Bioequivalence was achieved if 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for the ratios of the geometric least squares means (LSMeans) of primary endpoints were within the predefined bioequivalence margins of 80.00–125.00%. Safety and immunogenicity were also investigated.

Results

The 90% CIs for the geometric LSMean ratios of AUCinf, AUClast and Cmax were all within the prespecified bioequivalence margins. Geometric LSMean ratios for SB8/bevacizumab-EU, SB8/bevacizumab-US and bevacizumab-EU/bevacizumab-US were 88.01%, 88.48% and 100.54% for AUCinf, 88.65%, 89.08% and 100.49% for AUClast and 99.59%, 101.15% and 101.56% for Cmax, respectively. Incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) across treatment groups was comparable (SB8: 50.0%, bevacizumab-EU: 37.5%, bevacizumab-US: 53.8%). Most TEAEs were mild and considered as not related to the study drug. No deaths or treatment discontinuations due to adverse events occurred. Incidence of anti-drug antibodies was also comparable between all groups and no neutralizing antibodies were detected.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated pharmacokinetic bioequivalence and similar safety and immunogenicity profiles of SB8 to both reference products, bevacizumab-EU and bevacizumab-US, and of bevacizumab-EU to bevacizumab-US.

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier

NCT02453672 (submitted date); EudraCT number: 2015-001,026-41.
The BUSCOPAN study: a randomized-controlled non-inferiority trial of a continuous butylscopolamine infusion versus placebo in patients with a renal colic not responding to oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Authors: Weltings S. , Buddingh K. T. , van Diepen D. C. , Pelger R. C. M. , Putter H. , Rad M. , Schout B. M. A. , Roshani H.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To investigate whether placebo is non-inferior to continuous infusion of butylscopolamine in patients with renal colic.

Methods

We conducted a placebo-controlled, multicenter, double-blind randomized clinical trial (RCT) including 128 patients with renal colic (confirmed by ultrasound or CT-scan). Patients were randomized to receive either continuous IV butylscopolamine 100 mg/24 h or placebo (saline). Primary outcome is the amount of opioid escape medication used, measured in doses administered. Secondary outcomes are pain measured on a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), side effects, and time of drug administration. Non-inferiority was assessed using linear regression with robust standard errors, with non-inferiority limit set at 0.5 units of escape medication.

Results

Median number of doses of escape medication was one in both groups. The number of extra doses in the placebo group compared with the butylscopolamine group was 0.05, with a 95% robust confidence interval (CI) of 0.38–0.47. Upper limit of the CI remained below the non-inferiority limit of 0.5 (p = 0.04). No differences in secondary endpoints were seen between the groups.

Conclusion

Placebo is non-inferior to continuous IV butylscopolamine for pain relief in patients with renal colic. Based on this study and previous evidence, there is no role for continuous butylscopolamine IV in the treatment of renal colic.

Trial NL7819
How do dementia researchers view support tools for informed consent procedures of persons with dementia?
Authors: Wied Theresa S. , Poth Aoife , Pantel Johannes , Oswald Frank , Haberstroh Julia ,   ENSURE Consortium
Published: September 2020

The study aimed to assess how dementia researchers view eight support tools that have been defined to enhance informed consent (IC) procedures for people with dementia (PwD). In an online survey, 19 dementia researchers from Germany and Portugal evaluated the tools in terms of 4 implementation criteria. Overall, they all had a very positive attitude towards the support tools, whereby the tools person-centered attitude of the researcher and elaborated plain language were the most highly rated of the eight tools. Our findings also indicated that familiar support tools were assessed more favorably than those that were previously unknown. Overall, the results of this study showed that the participating dementia researchers were open to the use of decision support measures in PwD and were willing to apply the support tools in practice.
Tendon elongation with bovine pericardium in strabismus surgery—indications beyond Graves’ orbitopathy
Authors: Hedergott Andrea , Pink-Theofylaktopoulos Ursula , Neugebauer Antje , Fricke Julia
Published: September 2020

Background

For some patients with complex ocular motility disorders, conventional strabismus surgery is insufficient. Surgery with tendon elongation allows correction of larger angles and maintains a sufficient arc of contact for rectus muscles. This study reports results for tendon elongation with bovine pericardium (Tutopatch®) in indications other than Graves’ orbitopathy in which it is already widely used.

Methods

We reviewed the records of all patients who underwent surgery with Tutopatch® in our institution. Angles of squint and head postures were analyzed preoperatively, on the first postoperative day, and in the long term (median 9 weeks after the operation). Patients with Graves’ orbitopathy were excluded.

Results

From 2011 to 2018, the procedures on 58 eyes of 54 patients (35 females, median age 35 years (3–75)) met the inclusion criteria. Horizontal rectus muscle surgery (53 eyes) was conducted on patients with residual strabismus (13), Duane’s retraction syndrome with eso- (type I: 16)/exodeviation (type II: 2, type III: 1), 6th (7)/3rd nerve palsy (7), Möbius syndrome (2), congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles type 3A (CFEOM3A, TUBB3 mutation) (4), and orbital apex syndrome (1). Vertical rectus muscle surgery (5 eyes) was conducted on patients with myasthenia (1), vertical tropia after orbital floor fracture (1), CFEOM1 (2), and Parry-Romberg syndrome (1). 42 eyes had prior eye muscle surgery (1–5 procedures, median 1). Out of 45 patients with postoperative long-term data, 43 showed an angle reduction. Fifty-one percent had an angle of 10Δ (prism diopter) or less, one had a significant over-effect, and 10 had revision surgery. For the heterogeneous group of residual eso- and exotropias, the median absolute horizontal angle was reduced from 35Δ (16 to 45Δ) to 9Δ (0 to 40Δ), for Duane’s retraction syndrome from 27.5Δ (9 to 40Δ) to 7Δ (0 to 40Δ), and for sixth and third nerve palsies from 43Δ (20 to 75Δ) to 18Δ (4 to 40Δ). For 3 patients with vertical rectus muscle surgery, the median absolute vertical angle was reduced from 30Δ (20 to 45Δ) to 4Δ (1 to 22Δ). The motility range was shifted in the direction contrary to the elongated muscle in all subgroups. A considerable reduction of the excursion into the field of action of the elongated muscle had to be registered.

Conclusions

Strabismus surgery with bovine pericardium introduces new surgical options for complicated revisions and for rare and complex oculomotor dysfunctions. Yet, it has to be recognized that this type of surgery aiming at maximum effects, despite preservation or restitution of the arc of contact, leads to reduction of the excursion into the field of action of the elongated muscle. Furthermore, dose finding can be difficult depending on the underlying pathology and more than one intervention might be necessary for optimal results.
Ultrastructural characterization of microlipophagy induced by the interaction of vacuoles and lipid bodies around generative and sperm cells in Arabidopsis pollen
Authors: Akita Kae , Takagi Tomoko , Kobayashi Keiko , Kuchitsu Kazuyuki , Kuroiwa Tsuneyoshi , Nagata Noriko
Published: September 2020

During pollen maturation, various organelles change their distribution and function during development as male gametophytes. We analyzed the behavior of lipid bodies and vacuoles involved in lipophagy in Arabidopsis pollen using serial section SEM and conventional TEM. At the bicellular pollen stage, lipid bodies in the vegetative cells lined up at the surface of the generative cell. Vacuoles then tightly attached, drew in, and degraded the lipid bodies and eventually occupied the space of the lipid bodies. Degradation of lipid began before transfer of the entire contents of the lipid body. At the tricellular stage, vacuoles instead of lipid bodies surrounded the sperm cells. The degradation of lipid bodies is morphologically considered microautophagy. The atg2-1 Arabidopsis mutant is deficient in one autophagy-related gene (ATG). In this mutant, the assembly of vacuoles around sperm cells was sparser than that in wild-type pollen. The deficiency of ATG2 likely prevents or slows lipid degradation, although it does not prevent contact between organelles. These results demonstrate the involvement of microlipophagy in the pollen development of Arabidopsis.
Prenatal maternal infections and children’s socioemotional development: findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study
Authors: Hall Hildigunnur Anna , Speyer Lydia Gabriela , Murray Aja Louise , Auyeung Bonnie
Published: September 2020

Previous research suggests that prenatal maternal infections may be associated with increased odds of children having a neurodevelopmental disorder. However, little evidence exists on associations with broader child outcomes, especially subclinical symptoms. Participants were the N = 14,021 members of the population-representative UK Millennium Cohort Study. We examined associations between prenatal maternal infections, both maternal-reported and hospital-recorded, and children’s socioemotional development, using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at age three. Maternal-reported prenatal infections were associated with increased emotional symptoms, after adjusting for several potential confounds and covariates. Hospital-recorded prenatal infections were not associated with children’s socioemotional outcomes, after adjusting for potential confounding and covarying factors. Findings suggest that prenatal maternal infections, particularly those which the mothers remember months later, may be associated with increased emotional problems in early childhood. This emphasises the need for screening for and preventing infections during pregnancy. Further, the occurrence of prenatal infection indicates the potential need for early intervention for children’s emotional difficulties.
Mongolian Short-toed Lark Calandrella dukhunensis, an overlooked East Asian species
Authors: Alström Per , Sundev Gombobaatar
Published: September 2020

The eastern subspecies of Greater Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla dukhunensis has recently been considered a separate species, Calandrella dukhunensis, by several authors based on molecular data. We present supporting evidence for this treatment based on studies of morphology, vocalisations and song-flight, and also present new data on other aspects of its biology based on field studies. We show that its breeding distribution is considerably smaller than previously thought, and is restricted to the eastern half of Mongolia and, marginally, neighbouring parts of China and perhaps Russia.
Social Influence of Competing Groups and Leaders in Opinion Dynamics
Authors: Glass Catherine A. , Glass David H.
Published: September 2020

This paper explores the influence of two competing stubborn agent groups on the opinion dynamics of normal agents. Computer simulations are used to investigate the parameter space systematically in order to determine the impact of group size and extremeness on the dynamics and identify optimal strategies for maximizing numbers of followers and social influence. Results show that (a) there are many cases where a group that is neither too large nor too small and neither too extreme nor too central achieves the best outcome, (b) stubborn groups can have a moderating, rather than polarizing, effect on the society in a range of circumstances, and (c) small changes in parameters can lead to transitions from a state where one stubborn group attracts all the normal agents to a state where the other group does so. We also explore how these findings can be interpreted in terms of opinion leaders, truth, and campaigns.
A Mire of Discount Rates: Delaying Conservation Payment Schedules in a Choice Experiment
Authors: Grammatikopoulou Ioanna , Artell Janne , Hjerppe Turo , Pouta Eija
Published: September 2020

Studies on the public’s implicit discount rate in the willingness to pay for environmental amenities have mostly employed contingent valuation surveys. We investigate respondents’ time preferences using choice experiments with four payment schedules in a split-sample design in the context of mire conservation. We first examine preference and taste heterogeneity among respondents, finding them to a large extent independent of payment schedules. Next we use an endogenous approach to jointly estimate the implicit discount rates and preferences using choice experiments data. We explore exponential and hyperbolic discounting model specifications. We find insensitivity to the length of the payment period and support for hyperbolic discounting. Furthermore, we provide policy relevant valuation results concerning mire conservation.
Lake restoration influences nutritional quality of algae and consequently Daphnia biomass
Authors: Taipale S. J. , Kuoppamäki K. , Strandberg U. , Peltomaa E. , Vuorio K.
Published: September 2020

Food quality is one of the key factors influencing zooplankton population dynamics. Eutrophication drives phytoplankton communities toward the dominance of cyanobacteria, which means a decrease in the availability of sterols and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA and DHA). The effects of different restoration measures on the nutritional quality of the phytoplankton community and subsequent impacts on zooplankton biomass have rarely been considered. We analyzed the nutritional quality of phytoplankton in the eutrophic Lake Vesijärvi in southern Finland over a 37-year period, and studied the impacts of two restoration measures, biomanipulation and hypolimnetic aeration, on the abundance of high-quality phytoplankton. We found that biomanipulation had a positive impact on the abundance of taxa synthesizing sterols, EPA, and DHA and, concurrently, on the biomass of the keystone species Daphnia. In contrast, hypolimnetic aeration did not result in such a beneficial outcome, manifested as a decrease in the abundance of Daphnia and frequent phytoplankton blooms dominated by cyanobacteria suggesting reduction in the nutritional quality of food for Daphnia. Our analysis shows that the determination of the nutritional value of algae and the contribution of essential fatty acids and sterols is an effective method to evaluate the success of various restoration measures.
A multilayer shallow learning approach to variation prediction and variation source identification in multistage machining processes
Authors: Yacob Filmon , Semere Daniel
Published: September 2020

Variation propagation modelling in multistage machining processes through use of analytical approaches has been widely investigated for the purposes of dimension prediction and variation source identification. Yet the variation prediction of complex features is non-trivial task to model mathematically. Moreover, the application of the variation propagation approaches and associated variation source identification techniques using Skin Model Shapes is unclear. This paper proposes a multilayer shallow neural network regression approach to predict geometrical deviations of parts given manufacturing errors. The neural network is trained on a simulated data, generated from machining simulation of a point cloud of a part. Further, given a point cloud data of a machined feature, the source of variation can be identified by optimally matching the deviation patterns of the actual surface with that of shallow neural network generated surface. To demonstrate the method, a two-stage machining process and a virtual part that has planar, cylindrical and torus features was considered. The geometric characteristics of machined features and the sources variation could be predicted at an error of 1% and 4.25%, respectively. This work extends the application of Skin Model Shapes in variation propagation analysis in multistage manufacturing.
Upcycling of Vine Shoots: Production of Fillers for PHBV-Based Biocomposite Applications
Authors: David Grégoire , Heux Laurent , Pradeau Stéphanie , Gontard Nathalie , Angellier-Coussy Hélène
Published: September 2020

This paper aims at investigating the potential of vine shoots (ViSh) upcycling as fillers in novel poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) based biocomposites. ViSh particles of around 50 µm (apparent median diameter) were obtained combining dry grinding processes, and mixed with PHBV using melt extrusion. Thermal stability and elongation at break of biocomposites were reduced with increasing contents of ViSh particles (10, 20 and 30 wt%), while Young’s modulus and water vapor permeability were increased. It was shown that a surface gas-phase esterification allowed to significantly increase the hydrophobicity of ViSh particles (increase of water contact angles from 59° to 114°), leading to a reduction of 27% in the water vapor permeability of the biocomposite filled with 30 wt% of ViSh. The overall mechanical performance was not impacted by gas-phase esterification, demonstrating that the interfacial adhesion between the virgin ViSh particles and the PHBV matrix was already good and that such filler surface treatment was not required in that case. It was concluded that ViSh particles can be interestingly used as low cost fillers in PHBV-based biocomposites to decrease the overall cost of materials.
Optimization and validation of pumping system design and operation for water supply in high-rise buildings
Authors: Müller Tim M. , Leise Philipp , Lorenz Imke-Sophie , Altherr Lena C. , Pelz Peter F.
Published: September 2020

The application of mathematical optimization methods for water supply system design and operation provides the capacity to increase the energy efficiency and to lower the investment costs considerably. We present a system approach for the optimal design and operation of pumping systems in real-world high-rise buildings that is based on the usage of mixed-integer nonlinear and mixed-integer linear modeling approaches. In addition, we consider different booster station topologies, i.e. parallel and series-parallel central booster stations as well as decentral booster stations. To confirm the validity of the underlying optimization models with real-world system behavior, we additionally present validation results based on experiments conducted on a modularly constructed pumping test rig. Within the models we consider layout and control decisions for different load scenarios, leading to a Deterministic Equivalent of a two-stage stochastic optimization program. We use a piecewise linearization as well as a piecewise relaxation of the pumps’ characteristics to derive mixed-integer linear models. Besides the solution with off-the-shelf solvers, we present a problem specific exact solving algorithm to improve the computation time. Focusing on the efficient exploration of the solution space, we divide the problem into smaller subproblems, which partly can be cut off in the solution process. Furthermore, we discuss the performance and applicability of the solution approaches for real buildings and analyze the technical aspects of the solutions from an engineer’s point of view, keeping in mind the economically important trade-off between investment and operation costs.
Power in the ‘Organisation’: A Soft Systems Perspective
Authors: Stowell Frank
Published: September 2020

All systems must adapt in order to survive, this is as true for a business organisation as any other system. A business exists in a turbulent environment and in order to maintain its relationship with its environment its managers have to adapt it to the circumstances. The effect of the present pandemic is an example with some staff working from home, active blended learning in the education sector and social distancing have all created an urgency to accommodate the unprecedented consequence of the situation. To effect the necessary changes that these circumstances have generated means exercising some form of power to change operating procedures. Change creates uncertainty, the threat of the reallocation of resources, delegated power, redundancies and a change in group relationships. This produces a feeling of insecurity in those within the organisation often resulting in resistance to the proposals in an attempt to maintain the status quo. They are faced with adapting or resisting to these changes. Whilst systems models of organisational behavior provide ideas about organizing and managing an enterprise these are of limited value because of the unpredictability of change. The ubiquity of communication technologies and the rise of virtual methods of working add to the pressure for change creating a climate of anxiety. Organisational power can no longer be framed by the measures once taken for granted. To this end I adopt a soft systems perspective to explore the impact of change upon an organisation and how those within react as they attempt to cope with its impact.
From Obesity to Energy Metabolism: Ontological Perspectives on the Metrics of Human Bodies
Authors: Serpico Davide , Borghini Andrea
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we aim at rethinking the concept of obesity in a way that better captures the connection between underlying medical aspects, on the one hand, and an individual’s developmental history, on the other. Our proposal rests on the idea that obesity is not to be understood as a phenotypic trait or character; rather, obesity represents one of the many possible states of a more complex phenotypic trait that we call ‘energy metabolism.’ We argue that this apparently simple conceptual shift can help solve important theoretical misconceptions regarding the genetics, epigenetics, and development of obesity. In addition, we show that our proposal can be fruitfully paired with the concept of developmental channeling of a trait, which connects to the study of the plasticity and canalization of complex traits. Finally, we discuss the potential impact of our approach on the assessment, treatment, and social narratives of obesity.
Ways to get work done: a review and systematisation of simplification practices in the LCA literature
Authors: Beemsterboer Sjouke , Baumann Henrikke , Wallbaum Holger
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Within the field of life cycle assessment (LCA), simplifications are a response to the practical restrictions in the context of a study. In the 1990s, simplifications were part of a debate on streamlining within LCA. Since then, many studies have been published on simplifying LCA but with little attention to systematise the approaches available. Also, despite being pervasive during the making of LCA studies, simplifications remain often invisible in the final results. This paper therefore reviews the literature on simplification in LCA in order to systematise the approaches found today.

Methods

A review of the LCA simplification literature was conducted. The systematic search and selection process led to a sample of 166 publications. During the review phase, the conceptual contributions to the simplification discourse were evaluated. A dataset of 163 entries was created, listing the conceptual contributions to the simplification debate. An empirically grounded analysis led to the generative development of a systematisation of simplifications according to their underlying simplifying logic.

Results and discussion

Five simplifying logics were identified: exclusion, inventory data substitution, qualitative expert judgment, standardisation and automation. Together, these simplifying logics inform 13 simplification strategies. The identified logics represent approaches to handle the complexities of product systems and expectations of the users of LCA results with the resources available to the analyst. Each simplification strategy is discussed with regard to its main applications and challenges.

Conclusions

This paper provides a first systematisation of the different simplification logics frequently applied in LCA since the original streamlining discussion. The presented terminology can help making communication about simplification more explicit and transparent, thus important for the credibility of LCA. Despite the pervasiveness of simplification in LCA, there is a relative lack of research on simplification per se, making further research describing simplification as a practice and analysing simplifications methodologically desirable.
When should a rare inherited connective tissue disorder be suspected in bicuspid aortic valve by primary-care internists and cardiologists? Proposal of a score
Authors: Pepe Guglielmina , Giusti Betti , Colonna Stefania , Fugazzaro Maria Pia , Sticchi Elena , De Cario Rosina , Kura Ada , Pratelli Elisa , Melchiorre Daniela , Nistri Stefano
Published: September 2020

Size threshold for aortic surgery in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is debated. Connective tissue disorders (CTDs) are claimed as a clinical turning point, suggesting early surgery in BAV patients with CTD. Thus, we aimed at developing a score to detect high risk of carrying CTDs in consecutive BAVs from primary care. Ninety-eight BAVs without ectopia lentis or personal/family history of aortic dissection were studied at the Marfan syndrome Tuscany Referral Center. Findings were compared with those detected in 84 Marfan patients matched for sex and age. We selected traits with high statistical difference between MFS and BAV easily obtainable by cardiologists and primary-care internists: mitral valve prolapse, myopia ≥ 3DO, pectus carenatum, pes planus, wrist and thumb signs, and difference between aortic size at root and ascending aorta ≥ 4 mm. Clustering of ≥ 3 of these manifestations were more frequent in Marfan patients than in BAVs (71.4% vs 6.1%, p < 0.0001) resulting into an Odds Ratio to be affected by MFS of 38.3 (95% confidence intervals 14.8–99.3, p < 0.0001). We propose a score assembling simple clinical and echocardiographic variables resulting in an appropriate referral pattern of BAVs from a primary-care setting to a tertiary center to evaluate the presence of a potential, major CTD.
Hypeprolactinemia: still an insidious diagnosis
Authors: Aliberti Ludovica , Gagliardi Irene , Dorizzi Romolo M. , Pizzicotti Stefano , Bondanelli Marta , Zatelli Maria Chiara , Ambrosio Maria Rosaria
Published: September 2020

Hyperprolactinemia can have different causes: physiological, pharmacological, and pathological. When investigating the etiology of hyperprolactinemia, clinicians need to be aware of several conditions leading to misdiagnosis. The most popular pitfalls are: acute physical and psychological stress, macroprolactin, hook effect, even though antibodies interferences and biotine use have to be considered. A 52-year-old woman was referred to Endocrinology clinic for oligomenorrhoea and headache. She worked as a butcher. Hormonal evaluation showed very high PRL (305 ng/ml, reference interval: <24 ng/ml) measured with the ECLIA immunoassay analyzer Elecsys 170. The patient’s pituitary MRI was normal and macroprolactin was normal. Hormonal workup showed LH: 71.5 mU/ml (2–10.9 mU/ml), FSH: 111.4 mU/ml (3.9–8.8 mU/ml), Estradiol: 110.7 pg/mL (27–122 pg/ml). Since an interference was suspected, the sample was sent to another laboratory using a different assay. After antibody blocking tubes treatment (Heterophilic Blocking Tube, Scantibodies) PRL was 28.8 ng/ml (reference interval < 29.2 ng/ml). Analytical interference should be suspected when assay results are not consistent with the clinical picture. Endogenous antibodies (EA) include heterophile, human anti-animal, autoimmune and other nonspecific antibodies, and rheumatoid factors, that have structural similarities and can cross-react with the antibodies employed by the immunoassay, causing hyperprolactinemia misdiagnosis. The patient’s job (butcher), led us to suspect the presence of anti-animal antibodies. Clinicians should also carefully investigate the use of supplements. Biotin can falsely increase hormone concentration in competitive assays. Many clinicians are still not informed about these pitfalls that are not mentioned in some recent reviews on PRL measurement.
Domino-liver transplantation: toward a safer and simpler technique in both donor and recipient
Authors: Lerut Jan , Foguenne Maxime , Lai Quirino , de Ville de Goyet Jean
Published: September 2020

Domino-liver transplantation represents a rare chance to expand the donor liver pool. Fear of putting both donor and recipient at disadvantage has meant that the procedure has not been applied universally. A modification of the original technique which allows both safe procurement of the graft as well as safe implantation of the reconstructed graft in the domino-graft recipient using a 180° rotated, adequately trimmed, free iliaco-caval venous graft is described in detail.
A Wake-Up Call: Equity, Inequality and Covid-19 Emergency Remote Teaching and Learning
Authors: Czerniewicz Laura , Agherdien Najma , Badenhorst Johan , Belluigi Dina , Chambers Tracey , Chili Muntuwenkosi , de Villiers Magriet , Felix Alan , Gachago Daniela , Gokhale Craig , Ivala Eunice , Kramm Neil , Madiba Matete , Mistri Gitanjali , Mgqwashu Emmanuel , Pallitt Nicola , Prinsloo Paul , Solomon Kelly , Strydom Sonja , Swanepoel Mike , Waghid Faiq , Wissing Gerrit
Published: September 2020

Produced from experiences at the outset of the intense times when Covid-19 lockdown restrictions began in March 2020, this collaborative paper offers the collective reflections and analysis of a group of teaching and learning and Higher Education (HE) scholars from a diverse 15 of the 26 South African public universities. In the form of a theorised narrative insistent on foregrounding personal voices, it presents a snapshot of the pandemic addressing the following question: what does the ‘pivot online’ to Emergency Remote Teaching and Learning (ERTL), forced into urgent existence by the Covid-19 pandemic, mean for equity considerations in teaching and learning in HE? Drawing on the work of Therborn (2009: 20–32; 2012: 579–589; 2013; 2020) the reflections consider the forms of inequality - vital, resource and existential - exposed in higher education. Drawing on the work of Tronto (1993; 2015; White and Tronto 2004) the paper shows the networks of care which were formed as a counter to the systemic failures of the sector at the onset of the pandemic.
Evaluation of pure rapeseed oil as a renewable fuel for agricultural machinery based on emission characteristics and long-term operation behaviour of a fleet of 18 tractors
Authors: Ettl Johannes , Bernhardt Heinz , Huber Georg , Thuneke Klaus , Remmele Edgar , Emberger Peter
Published: September 2020

The usage of locally produced pure rapeseed oil fuel (R100) according to fuel standard DIN 51605 in agricultural machinery can contribute to protecting the climate, water, and soil. Besides economic aspects, uncertainties concerning the long-term operation reliability and limited exhaust emissions of R100-operated agricultural machinery are hindering market entry. Thus, the aim of this research is to evaluate field experiences, such as downtimes and repairs, engine oil quality, and cold start behaviour, over a total period of more than 50,000 operation hours with 18 tractors. The tested tractors range from European Union exhaust gas stages I to IV and were configured for the use of R100. Additionally, performance, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter were measured on a tractor test stand. The tractors demonstrated their full functionality under usual Bavarian farm conditions in daily use. Within the tractor fleet, no serious engine damage was observed, while minor malfunctions and necessary repairs occurred just occasionally. The operational reliability of the tested rapeseed-oil-fuelled tractors seemed to be comparable to that of diesel-fuelled tractors. The results of recurrent power and fuel consumption measurements gave no indication of engine deterioration. Furthermore, measurements proved that differences in exhaust gas emissions between R100 and diesel operation were marginal. Tractor models with exhaust gas after treatment systems were characterized by low emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in particular. With the 18 tractors running on R100, about 220 tonnes of CO2eq per year were saved on average from 2015 to 2017. It can be concluded that the usage of pure rapeseed oil fuel (R100) in compatible agricultural machinery is an implementable alternative to diesel fuel and can make an important contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture. Nevertheless, there are some challenges to solve, particularly for modern agricultural machines with engines with exhaust gas aftertreatment systems.