bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and analysis of three-axis cantilever type force sensor
Authors: Jawale Hemant P. , Jaiswal Ankur , Bhasme Kapil N.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The force sensing is used in robotic assembly tasks. The sensors developed are much advanced and costly. The force transducers are generally configured and deployed at the wrist of the robotic arm. The purpose of this paper is to describe the concept of an elastic transducer to make available cost-effective force sensor with simple construction and analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytical formulation is developed herewith for one-, two- and three-axis elastic cantilever configuration. The force to be measured can be calculated analytically using derived strain expressions. The strains are estimated using proposed formulation, further crosschecked through FEA approach. The analytical method for strain estimation using moment equations is presented along with validation using finite element method (FEM) tool (ANSYS 15.0) with the case study.

Findings

The derivation of expressions for force components from strains is developed. The resulting formulation found to confirm the estimated strains from analytical methods closely to the FEM results. Theoretically, it is possible to find contact forces and angle of force on stationary force platform. It is found that the magnitude of estimated contact forces is within 1 per cent deviations.

Research limitations/implications

The mathematical modeling and FEA simulation of the three-axis force sensor under elastic (no deformation) conditions.

Originality/value

These sensors are ranging from simple crossbar structure to Stewart platform type. The subsequent development in this field pertains to performance enhancement such as accuracy and cross-sensitivity. The basic structure of the sensor has not changed drastically. The major problem, as discussed by many authors, is a complex interdependence of six components and intricate geometrical structure. Derivation of expressions for force components from strains is a breakthrough contribution by the authors. The analytical treatment for finding the strains is aimed in this paper.
Free‐surface implementation in a mesh‐free finite‐difference method for elastic wave propagation in the frequency domain
Authors: Takekawa Junichi , Mikada Hitoshi
Published: June 2019

We present an original implementation of the free‐surface boundary condition in a mesh‐free finite‐difference method for simulating elastic wave propagation in the frequency domain. For elastic wave modelling in the frequency domain, the treatment of free surfaces is a key issue which requires special consideration. In the present study, the free‐surface boundary condition is directly implemented at node positions located on the free‐surface. Flexible nature of the mesh‐free method for nodal distribution enables us to introduce topography into numerical models in an efficient manner. We investigate the accuracy of the proposed implementation by comparing numerical results with an analytical solution. The results show that the proposed method can calculate surface wave propagation even for an inclined free surface with substantial accuracy. Next, we calculate surface wave propagation in a model with a topographic surface using our method, and compare the numerical result with that using the finite‐element method. The comparison shows the excellent agreement with each other. Finally, we apply our method to the SEG foothill model to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Since the mesh‐free method has high flexibility of nodal distribution, the proposed implementation would deal with models of topographic surface with sufficient accuracy and efficiency.
The compensation hypothesis goes east: FDI and welfare state demand in postcommunist countries
Authors: BEESLEY CELESTE
Published: June 2019

While existing research provides evidence that globalisation sparks citizen demand for the welfare state in wealthy Western democracies, less is known about how globalisation affects public demand for welfare elsewhere. This study explores the link between globalisation and welfare preferences in postcommunist countries by examining workers at multinational corporations (MNCs). These workers have previously been found to have lower levels of job security, even in Western Europe. Additionally, in the postcommunist context, MNC employment also frequently offers better opportunities than other available jobs. This combination of risk and benefit creates higher demand for social insurance (such as unemployment insurance) because MNC workers have both higher job insecurity and higher costs of job loss (if the benefits of MNC employment make it difficult to find an equally good job). Original survey data from Ukraine shows that MNC workers experience greater insecurity and are paid more than other workers. They also express preferences for more expansive welfare programmes, prioritising those related to labour market insurance. This pattern of MNC workers’ experience and preferences is confirmed in cross‐national survey data from 30 peripheral economies, demonstrating that the compensation hypothesis has wider application than previously shown.
After‐hours emergency radiology CT reporting by radiology registrars at an Australian level 1 trauma centre: A review of discrepancies between preliminary and final reports
Authors: Goh Gerard S , Aberdein Georgina , Chokka Ramesh , Yu Xavier , Varma Dinesh
Published: June 2019

Introduction

There is reliance on radiology registrar reporting of after‐hours CT scans in many public hospitals across Australia and New Zealand. This study evaluates the extent and nature of CT reporting discrepancies after‐hours by comparing trainee preliminary reports with consultant finalised reports.

Methods

A retrospective review of all after‐hours CT scans between January and December 2014 by radiology trainees at a level 1 trauma centre was performed. Discrepancies were classified as major or minor, by year level of trainee, time of report and scan type (Trauma vs. Non‐Trauma). Major discrepancies were investigated to assess if they led to increased morbidity, mortality or a change in treatment.

Results

17,948 after‐hours CT scans were performed. A total of 1235 preliminary reports required addendums (discrepancy rate of 6.9%). There were 630 Trauma and 605 Non‐Trauma studies. There were 56 major (0.3%) and 1179 minor (6.6%) discrepancies. Of the 56 major discrepancies there were 12 (0.3%) in the Trauma and 44 (6.6%) in the Non‐Trauma groups. There were no adverse patient outcomes due to any major discrepancy. There were more minor discrepancies in reports of Trauma CTs compared to Non‐Trauma (P ≤ 0.0001). No relationship between the time of report issued and discrepancy rate (P = 0.811) was observed. There was a lower discrepancy rate the more experienced the registrar from year 2 to advanced fellowship (P = 0.003).

Conclusion

The discrepancy rates of after‐hours CT trainee reports were lower at this institution compared to international literature (6.9% vs. 7.7%). The majority of preliminary trainee reports were accurate with no increased morbidity or mortality resulting from major discrepancies.
Drones and convolutional neural networks facilitate automated and accurate cetacean species identification and photogrammetry
Authors: Gray Patrick C. , Bierlich Kevin C. , Mantell Sydney A. , Friedlaender Ari S. , Goldbogen Jeremy A. , Johnston David W.
Published: June 2019

The flourishing application of drones within marine science provides more opportunity to conduct photogrammetric studies on large and varied populations of many different species. While these new platforms are increasing the size and availability of imagery datasets, established photogrammetry methods require considerable manual input, allowing individual bias in techniques to influence measurements, increasing error and magnifying the time required to apply these techniques.

Here, we introduce the next generation of photogrammetry methods utilizing a convolutional neural network to demonstrate the potential of a deep learning‐based photogrammetry system for automatic species identification and measurement. We then present the same data analysed using conventional techniques to validate our automatic methods.

Our results compare favorably across both techniques, correctly predicting whale species with 98% accuracy (57/58) for humpback whales, minke whales, and blue whales. Ninety percent of automated length measurements were within 5% of manual measurements, providing sufficient resolution to inform morphometric studies and establish size classes of whales automatically.

The results of this study indicate that deep learning techniques applied to survey programs that collect large archives of imagery may help researchers and managers move quickly past analytical bottlenecks and provide more time for abundance estimation, distributional research, and ecological assessments.
Quinolones for sepsis. A protocol for a systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Korang Steven Kwasi , Maagaard Mathias , Feinberg Joshua , Perner Anders , Gluud Christian , Jakobsen Janus C.
Published: June 2019

Background

Sepsis is a relatively common and deadly condition that constitutes a major challenge to the modern health care system. Quinolones are sometimes used in combination with beta‐lactam antibiotics for sepsis, but no former systematic review has assessed the benefits and harms of quinolones in patients with sepsis.

Methods

We will perform a systematic review with meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis including randomised clinical trials assessing the effects of quinolones as add on therapy to usual care in children and adults with sepsis. For the assessment of harms, we will also include quasi‐randomised studies and observational studies identified during our searches for randomised clinical trials.

Discussion

This systematic review will clarify if there is evidence to support quinolones being part of the standard treatment for sepsis.
Hormonal contraceptive use in Australian women: Who is using what?
Authors: Skiba Marina A. , Islam Rakibul M. , Bell Robin J. , Davis Susan R.
Published: June 2019

Background

In Australia many hormonal contraceptives are not Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) supported, hence the use of different formulations have not been quantified.

Objectives

To document the use of hormonal contraceptives and factors associated with their use.

Materials and methods

Cross‐sectional, online questionnaire‐based study of 6986 Australian women, aged 18–39 years, recruited by email invitation from two large, representative databases. Main outcome measures were the prevalence of use of hormonal contraceptives and associated socio‐demographic characteristics.

Results

Of the 6600 potential hormone contraceptive users, 43.2% were current users. Most (63.6%) reported using a combined oral contraceptive (COC) of which 30.9% were non‐PBS‐supported anti‐androgenic progestin‐containing COCs. Use of long‐acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) or an injectable contraceptive was reported by 26.8%. Education beyond secondary school, being Australian born, rural residency, normal body mass index, age <25 years and nulliparity were significantly associated with hormonal contraceptive use. Women who reported polycystic ovary syndrome or acne were more likely to be taking a third or fourth generation COC (P < 0.0001) and endometriosis was significantly associated with intrauterine system (IUS) use. Third or fourth generation COC use was reported by 12.1% of obese, current smokers.

Conclusion

An estimated one‐third of Australian women aged 18–39 are taking a non‐PBS‐supported anti‐androgenic progestin COC, highlighting inequity in access to COC options. That hormonal contraceptive use is higher in rural areas is a novel finding and the proportion of LARC or injectable use suggests that uptake in Australia is higher than previously reported.
Will recalling a purchase increase your well‐being? The sequential mediating roles of postpurchase sharing and relatedness need satisfaction
Authors: Sun Ying , Wang Rong , Xu Yayi , Jiang Jiang
Published: June 2019

To shed light on the underlying mechanisms of the relationship between purchase type and well‐being (including hedonic and eudaimonic well‐being), this study explored the mediating roles of both postpurchase sharing and relatedness need satisfaction in a Chinese sample. In the current study, participants were required to recall an impressive past purchase and report the level of postpurchase sharing, relatedness need satisfaction, and well‐being experienced after the purchase. The results indicated that (a) participants in the experiential purchase group reported higher levels of both hedonic and eudaimonic well‐being than did those in the material purchase group, and (b) postpurchase sharing and relatedness need satisfaction sequentially mediated the relationship between purchase type and well‐being. Specifically, individuals were more willing to share with others after experiential purchases than after material ones. Therefore, in turn, they experienced higher levels of relatedness need satisfaction, which was conducive to higher levels of both hedonic and eudaimonic well‐being.
Prenatal exposure to betamethasone causes intergenerational impairment of epididymal development in the rat
Authors: Kempinas W. G. , Borges C. S. , Leite G. A. A. , Figueiredo T. M. , Gregory M. , Cyr D. G.
Published: June 2019

Background

Studies on epididymal toxicology are scarce. Betamethasone (BM) is a glucocorticoid used in clinical practice for antenatal therapy. We previously reported changes to testicular morphology, altered sperm quality, and fertility in adult rats following intrauterine administration of BM.

Objectives

Given that high levels of corticosteroids during gestation lead to fetal androgen depletion, and the essential role of testosterone during epididymal development, here we investigated epididymal morphology and physiology in the F1 and F2 male offspring of female rats treated with BM during gestation.

Materials and methods

Pregnant rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups: control (saline vehicle, n = 11) and BM‐treated group (0.1 mg/kg betamethasone 21‐phosphate disodium, n = 13). Rats received an intramuscular injection of vehicle or BM on gestational days 12, 13, 18, and 19. This encompasses the beginning of the critical window of male rat reproductive tract development. A subset of three males from each litter (n = 5 litters/group) was used: One rat per litter was euthanized at puberty, one was euthanized at adulthood, while the others were mated with a non‐treated female to obtain the F2 generation. The same protocol described for the F1 was applied for F2, except for the mating protocol.

Results

In both F1 and F2 generations, prenatal BM exposure resulted in delayed differentiation of the cauda epididymal epithelium, characterized by increased cribriform appearance on PND 45, and displayed weaker or non‐detectable Cx43 immunostaining. Furthermore, in the F1 generation only, immunostaining of TP63, a transcription factor expressed in basal cells, appeared more intense with a greater number of TP63‐positive cells observed in the cauda epididymis. In adults, the epithelial area was reduced in the F1 BM rats. The contractile activity of isolated epididymal ducts was comparable between groups.

Discussion and Conclusion

Prenatal BM exposure leads to intergenerational impairment in the development and structure of the rat epididymis.
Relationship between leukocytospermia, reproductive potential after assisted reproductive technology, and sperm parameters: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of case–control studies
Authors: Castellini C. , D'Andrea S. , Martorella A. , Minaldi E. , Necozione S. , Francavilla F. , Francavilla S. , Barbonetti A.
Published: June 2019

Background

The association of leukocytospermia with male fertility is still under debate.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of leukocytospermia (≥1 × 106 white blood cells/mL of semen, according to the World Health Organization) in men attending a fertility clinic for couple subfertility, on fertility outcomes after assisted reproductive technology (ART) and on semen quality.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review with meta‐analysis of case–control studies reporting mean ± standard deviation for values of different seminal parameters (sperm concentration, progressive motility, sperm morphology, sperm DNA fragmentation, semen volume, and Ph) and fertilization rate (FR), or the odds ratio (OR) for clinical pregnancy rate (PR) per cycle after ART in leukocytospermic and non‐leukocytospermic patients was performed. A literature search was carried out in MEDLINE and SCOPUS for English‐language studies published till June 2018.

Results

Twenty‐eight case‐controlled retrospective studies met the inclusion criteria, comparing fertility outcomes after ART or semen parameters in men with or without leukocytospermia. FR and PR after ART were not significantly different in the two groups. Leukocytospermic samples showed a lower sperm concentration (pooled SMD = −0.14; 95% CI: −0.28, −0.01, I2 = 71%, pfor heterogeneity < 0.00001) and a lower progressive motility (pooled SMD = −0.18; 95% CI: −0.29, −0.06; I2 = 59%, pfor heterogeneity < 0.0001). However, the significant differences disappeared, along with the large inter‐study heterogeneity, when analyses were restricted to studies clearly reporting the inclusion of men without clinical evidence of seminal tract infection.

Discussion and Conclusion

Leukocytospermia in men seeking consultation for couple subfertility is not associated with a reduced fertility after ART and with altered semen quality in populations asymptomatic for genital tract infection. Therefore, the current clinical criteria for definition of leukocytospermia should be re‐assessed in subfertile couples attending a fertility clinic.
Impact of preoperative atrial fibrillation in patients with left ventricular assist device: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tantrachoti Pakpoom , Klomjit Saranapoom , Vutthikraivit Wasawat , Prieto Sofia , Gongora Enrique , Nair Nandini
Published: June 2019

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common finding in patients evaluated for left ventricular assist device (LVAD). There is conflicting data regarding the mortality risk as well as the thromboembolic risk in patients with preoperative AF who undergo LVAD implantation. We examined these risks by performing a meta‐analysis. We performed a literature search of Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane from inception to February 2018. The eligible studies were used to compare mortality rate and thromboembolic risk between AF and Non‐AF (NAF) groups after LVAD implantation. We obtained 391 articles from our search strategy. Seven retrospective studies were included and accounted for 5823 LVAD patients (AF 1589; NAF 4234). The median follow‐up duration ranged from 7–24 months. The pooled analysis revealed a significantly increased risk of mortality in preoperative AF patients who underwent LVAD operation compared to those with NAF (Risk Ratio [RR] 1.16, 95% CI 1.05‐1.28, I2 = 0%). Five studies reported thromboembolism events involving 1359 preoperative AF and 3893 NAF patients. The pooled analysis did not show a statistically significant association between risk of thromboembolic event and preoperative AF (Risk Ratio [RR] 1.08, 95% CI 0.86‐1.36, I2 = 76.2%). Our study shows that preoperative AF may be associated with a higher mortality rate. This study is limited by the fact that the data are pooled from retrospective studies. Further prospective studies are warranted in order to validate these results.
Single‐port laparoscopic colectomy in elderly patients with colon cancer: A propensity score‐matched comparison with younger patients
Authors: Hirano Yasumitsu , Hiranuma Chikashi , Hattori Masakazu , Douden Kenji , Yamaguchi Shigeki
Published: June 2019

Introduction

This study aims to evaluate the safety and feasibility of single‐port laparoscopic colectomy (SPLC) in elderly patients with colon cancer.

Methods

During the study period, 344 patients underwent SPLC in our hospital. Among them, 87 patients were aged 80 years and older, and 257 patients were younger than 80 years. After 1:1 propensity‐score matching, 87 elderly patients were compared with 87 young patients.

Results

Short‐term clinical outcomes after SPLC were equivalent between the two groups, although the elderly group had a higher ASA score and more postoperative complications. The 5‐year overall survival rates were 64.6% in the elderly group and 66.8% in control group. The 5‐year cancer‐specific survival rates were 78.0% in the elderly group and 70.9% in control group. There were no significant differences between the groups.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that SPLC is technically feasible for operative teams that have adequately standardized the procedure, and it is oncologically safe in elderly patients with colon cancer.
Effects of dietary leucine on antioxidant activity and expression of antioxidant and mitochondrial‐related genes in longissimus dorsi muscle and liver of piglets
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Xiang Lu , Jia Gang , Liu Guangmang , Zhao Hua , Huang Zhiqing
Published: June 2019

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary leucine on antioxidant activity and expression of antioxidant‐ and mitochondrial‐related genes in longissimus dorsi muscle and liver of piglets. Three diets were formulated with different levels of supplemented leucine (0%, 0.25%, 0.5%). Results showed that supplementation of 0.25% leucine significantly increased antisuperoxide anion (ASA) and antihydroxyl radical (AHR) levels and activities of total superoxide dismutade (T‐SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S‐transferase (GST), and total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC) in serum, longissimus dorsi muscle and liver of piglets as compared with the control group. The SOD2, catalase (CAT), GPx, GST, glutathione reductase (GR), and nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA levels in longissimus dorsi muscle and liver were significantly increased by 0.25% leucine supplementation. However, the malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the mRNA level of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) exhibited an opposite tendency. Additionally, supplementation of 0.25% leucine significantly increased the mRNA levels of mitochondrial‐related genes in longissimus dorsi muscle and liver of piglets. Results suggested that supplementation of 0.25% leucine improved antioxidant activity and mitochondrial biogenesis and function of piglets, which was related to the increase in antioxidant enzymes activities and upregulation of expression of antioxidant‐ and mitochondrial‐related genes.
Ethnic differences in diurnal cortisol profiles in healthy adults: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Boileau Kayla , Barbeau Kheana , Sharma Rupali , Bielajew Catherine
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Cortisol is a well‐known biomarker of the physiological stress system; atypical cortisol patterns have been linked to many psychological and physiological illnesses. Previous studies have found vast health disparities among ethnic groups; however, studies examining the relationship between cortisol and ethnicity have found mixed results. This meta‐analysis investigated whether there are differences in diurnal cortisol outcomes among ethnic groups, while considering the moderating roles of various individual factors and methodological approaches.

Methods

Search phrases were entered into MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science. Effect sizes were extracted for ten diurnal cortisol outcomes, including waking, 30 min after waking, cortisol awakening response, slope, area under the curve, urinary twenty‐four‐hour secretion, total cortisol output, and midday, evening, and bedtime concentrations, for eight ethnic group comparisons, including Asians, Blacks, Hispanics, Indigenous people, Whites, Minority and Majority groups, and Multiethnic groups. Moderator analyses, including variables such as gender, age, and number of cortisol collection time points, were conducted.

Results

There were significant ethnic differences in diurnal cortisol profiles, including cortisol awakening responses, with more robust differences in ethnic comparisons that included White participants. Differences in diurnal cortisol profiles were also moderated by gender, mean age, and sample size.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis supports the notion that ethnic groups exhibit distinct diurnal cortisol profiles, which, according to the biopsychosocial model of health, may be a result of unique sociocultural experiences. The limitations of this meta‐analysis and future directions for stress research with various ethnic groups are discussed.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Studies have found vast health disparities among ethnic groups.

Psychological and physiological illnesses and atypical diurnal cortisol profiles are strongly correlated.

Studies have examined the relationship between diurnal cortisol rhythms and ethnicity, but findings are mixed.

What does this study add?

This study is a systematic examination of the relationship between diurnal cortisol rhythm and ethnicity.

Psychosocial and methodological factors moderate the relationship between diurnal cortisol output and ethnicity.

This study provides insight on factors that contribute to health disparities among ethnic groups.
The internal brain drain: foreign aid, hiring practices, and international migration
Authors: Lemay‐Hébert Nicolas , Marcelin Louis Herns , Pallage Stéphane , Cela Toni
Published: June 2019

Building on empirical material gathered in Haiti, this paper advances a new and innovative understanding of the internal brain drain phenomenon—the poaching of local skilled workers by international organisations (IOs) or international non‐governmental organisations (INGOs)— by conceptualising it as an equilibrium. This equilibrium is composed of two sets of tensions: (i) those between the salary conditions in the public sector and those on offer to local personnel working for IOs and INGOs; and (ii) those inherent in the dual salary scale used by IOs and INGOs for local and international staff. These two sets of tensions contribute in their specific ways to international migration, and, as such, the internal brain drain has a bearing on external brain drain dynamics. In addition, the paper addresses the difficult policy choices facing development and humanitarian organisations, since every set of policies that impacts on one side of the equilibrium is bound to affect its other side.
Assessing community vulnerability to floods and hurricanes along the Gulf Coast of the United States
Authors: Shao Wanyun , Jackson Nida Pino , Ha Hoehun , Winemiller Terence
Published: June 2019

Hurricanes and flooding have affected millions of people and generated massive economic losses over the past several decades. Geographic information system (GIS) methods are employed in this paper to analyse coastal communities' vulnerability to these two hazards along the Gulf Coast of the United States. Specifically, two types of quantitative indicators are developed: (i) exposure to hurricanes and flooding, based on information from multiple sources; and a social vulnerability index, constructed using census data. These indices are combined to depict the spatial patterns of overall community vulnerability to hurricanes and flooding along the US Gulf Coast. The results of this study can potentially inform disaster management agencies, county governments, and municipalities in areas at heightened risk. Furthermore, the demonstration of the geographic distribution of community vulnerability can assist decision‐makers in prioritising to‐do items and designing policies and plans for the more effective allocation of resources. The paper ends by discussing the study's limitations and its practical implications.
Greater growth stability of trees in marginal habitats suggests a patchy pattern of population loss and retention in response to increased drought at the rear edge
Authors: Vilà‐Cabrera Albert , Jump Alistair S.
Published: June 2019

Species rear range edges are predicted to retract as climate warms, yet evidence of population persistence is accumulating. Accounting for this disparity is essential to enable prediction and planning for species’ range retractions. At the Mediterranean edge of European beech‐dominated temperate forest, we tested the hypothesis that individual performance should decline at the limit of the species’ ecological tolerance in response to increased drought. We sampled 40 populations in a crossed factor design of geographical and ecological marginality and assessed tree growth resilience and decline in response to recent drought. Drought impacts occurred across the rear edge, but tree growth stability was unexpectedly high in geographically isolated marginal habitat and lower than anticipated in the species’ continuous range and better‐quality habitat. Our findings demonstrate that, at the rear edge, range shifts will be highly uneven and characterised by reduction in population density with local population retention rather than abrupt range retractions.
Malignant glucagonoma associated with hyperglycaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, Candidiasis and bacterial pneumonia in a 12‐year‐old Arabian gelding
Authors: Ruby R. E. , Fales‐Williams A. , Wong D. M. , Sponseller B. A.
Published: June 2019

A 12‐year‐old Arabian gelding was presented for severe, rapid weight loss and polyuria. Physical examination revealed a body condition score of 1/9 with severe muscle wasting, moderate tachycardia, profound hyperglycaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia. The horse's clinical condition deteriorated rapidly resulting in euthanasia 16 h following admission. Post‐mortem examination revealed multifocal nests of neoplastic endocrine cells within the liver which had immuno‐positive glucagon reactivity. Based on the combination of cachexia, marked hyperglycaemia and glucagon‐positive neoplastic cells, a diagnosis of malignant glucagonoma, which was presumed to be functional, was made. This is the first case of malignant glucagonoma to be reported in horses.
Passive acoustic monitoring as a potential tool to survey animal and ecosystem processes in freshwater environments
Authors: Desjonquères Camille , Gifford Toby , Linke Simon
Published: June 2019

Biodiversity in freshwater habitats is decreasing faster than in any other type of environment, mostly as a result of human activities. Monitoring these losses can help guide mitigation efforts. In most studies, sampling strategies predominantly rely on collecting animal and vegetal specimens. Although these techniques produce valuable data, they are invasive, time‐consuming and typically permit only limited spatial and temporal replication. There is need for the development of complementary methods.

As observed in other ecosystems, freshwater environments host animals that emit sounds, either to communicate or as a by‐product of their activity. The main freshwater soniferous groups are amphibians, fish, and macroinvertebrates (mainly Coleoptera and Hemiptera, but also some Decapoda, Odonata, and Trichoptera). Biophysical processes such as flow or sediment transport also produce sounds, as well as human activities within aquatic ecosystems.

Such animals and processes can be recorded, remotely and autonomously, and provide information on local diversity and ecosystem health. Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is an emerging method already deployed in terrestrial environments that uses sounds to survey environments. Key advantages of PAM are its non‐invasive nature, as well as its ability to record autonomously and over long timescales. All these research topics are the main aims of ecoacoustics, a new scientific discipline investigating the ecological role of sounds.

In this paper, we review the sources of sounds present in freshwater environments. We then underline areas of research in which PAM may be helpful emphasising the role of PAM for the development of ecoacoustics. Finally, we present methods used to record and analyse sounds in those environments.

Passive acoustics represents a potentially revolutionary development in freshwater ecology, enabling continuous monitoring of dynamic bio‐physical processes to inform conservation practitioners and managers.
How can miscanthus fields be reintegrated into a crop rotation?
Authors: Mangold Anja , Lewandowski Iris , Kiesel Andreas
Published: June 2019

The bioeconomy, with its aim of replacing fossil by biobased resources, is increasingly focusing on biomass production from perennial crops, such as miscanthus. To date, research on miscanthus has explored a number of cultivation aspects; however, one major issue has not yet been addressed: How can former miscanthus fields be reintegrated into a crop rotation? This encompasses the questions of which following crop most efficiently suppresses resprouting miscanthus and what happens to the soil nitrogen content after a miscanthus removal. This study aimed to answer both questions. For this purpose, four spring crops (ryegrass, rapeseed, barley, maize) and fallow as control were cultivated after a Miscanthus sinensis removal. To test the effect of the removal on soil nitrogen content, each spring crop (excluding fallow) was divided into fertilized and unfertilized plots. After the spring crop harvest, winter wheat was cultivated to clarify which spring crop had most efficiently suppressed the resprouting miscanthus. The results indicate that fertilized crops had 35% less miscanthus biomass per hectare than unfertilized crops, probably due to the higher plant density and/or better development of the fertilized crops during the growing season. The soil mineral nitrogen (Nmin) content was found to increase during the vegetation period following the miscanthus removal (average +14.85 kg/ha), but was generally on a low level. We conclude that nitrogen from miscanthus residues is partly fixed in organic matter and is thus not plant‐available in the first cropping season. As some nitrogen is supplied by the decomposition of miscanthus residues, our results suggest that the crop cultivated after a miscanthus removal requires less fertilization. Of all the follow‐on spring crops tested, maize coped with the prevailing soil conditions and resprouting miscanthus most efficiently, resulting in satisfactory yields, and thus seems to be a suitable crop for cultivation after miscanthus.
Unfavorable prognosis of patients with acute liver injury due to drug‐induced liver injury and acute exacerbation of hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Kakisaka Keisuke , Suzuki Yuji , Jinnouchi Yukina , Kanazawa Jo , Sasaki Tokio , Yonezawa Takehiro , Yoshida Yuichi , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Takikawa Yasuhiro
Published: June 2019

Aim

Acute liver injury (ALI) has a favorable prognosis, whereas acute liver failure (ALF) leads to organ failure and thus has an unfavorable prognosis. The effect of each etiology on the clinical course of ALI remains unclear. This study aimed to determine how each etiology and glucocorticoid on the unfavorable etiology affects the clinical course of ALI.

Methods

This prospective observational study enrolled 522 patients with ALI/ALF from 2004 and 2017. To evaluate the influence of etiology on prognosis, decision tree analysis was carried out using age, disease type, etiology, and the presence of hepatic encephalopathy.

Results

Of 522 patients, 398 patients satisfied the ALI criteria at registration in this study. The ALI etiologies were as follows: viral hepatitis through oral infection (n = 54), acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (n = 24), acute exacerbation of HBV infection (n = 30), de novo hepatitis due to HBV (n = 5), autoimmune hepatitis (n = 59), drug‐induced liver injury (DILI; n = 85), other viruses (n = 12), and undetermined (n = 129). ALI in 46 patients progressed to ALF after registration. Of 11 patients (age >52 years) with ALF due to acute exacerbation of HBV infection or DILI, seven patients (63.6%) died. Whether glucocorticoid affected the clinical course of ALI due to acute exacerbation of HBV infection or DILI was evaluated using propensity score matching (age, sex, alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and prothrombin time‐international normalized ratio). Glucocorticoid did not improve the prognosis of ALI patients due to the two etiologies.

Conclusions

Progression of ALI due to DILI or acute exacerbation of HBV infection to ALF showed a poor prognosis.
Changes in the texture, microstructures, colour and volatile compounds of pork meat loins during superheated steam cooking
Authors: Wang Ruirui , Huang Feng , Zhang Liang , Liu Qiannan , Zhang Chunjiang , Zhang Hong
Published: June 2019

We evaluated changes in the texture, colour, microstructure and volatile compounds of pork loins after superheated steam (SHS) cooking at 120, 140, 160 or 180 °C for 5, 10, 15 and 20 min. Results showed that the texture changed significantly with heating temperature and time. Hardness increased significantly with increasing temperature above 140 °C. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs showed that cooked pork with SHS had more complete muscle fibre bundle structure than that of pork in HA. The L* value indicating colour was significantly increased during the early period and then decreased, whereas the a* and b* values showed a continuous increase. Ninety‐five volatile compounds were identified in cooked pork from SHS by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry with solid‐phase microextraction. The amount of volatile compounds increased during cooking and decreased as cooking time increased and was well retained at 140 °C. Considering those variations, samples cooked at 140 °C showed better quality attributes.
Ghrelin receptor in agouti‐related peptide neurones regulates metabolic adaptation to calorie restriction
Authors: Wu Chia‐Shan , Bongmba Odelia Y. N. , Lee Jong Han , Tuchaai Ellie , Zhou Yu , Li De‐Pei , Xue Bingzhong , Chen Zheng , Sun Yuxiang
Published: June 2019

Ghrelin is a gut hormone that signals to the hypothalamus to stimulate growth hormone release, increase food intake and promote fat deposition. The ghrelin receptor, also known as growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS‐R), is highly expressed in the brain, with the highest expression in agouti‐related peptide (AgRP) neurones in the hypothalamus. Compelling evidence indicates that ghrelin serves as a survival hormone with respect to maintaining blood glucose and body weight during nutritional deficiencies. Recent studies have demonstrated that AgRP neurones are involved in metabolic and behavioural adaptation to an energy deficit to improve survival. In the present study, we used a neuronal subtype‐specific GHS‐R knockout mouse (AgRP‐Cre;Ghsrf/f) to investigate the role of GHS‐R in hypothalamic AgRP neurones in metabolic and behavioural adaptation to hypocaloric restricted feeding. We subjected the mice to a restricted feeding regimen of 40% mild calorie restriction (CR), with one‐quarter of food allotment given in the beginning of the light cycle and three‐quarters given at the beginning of the dark cycle, to mimic normal mouse intake pattern. The CR‐fed AgRP‐Cre;Ghsrf/f mice exhibited reductions in body weight, fat mass and blood glucose. Metabolic profiling of these CR‐fed AgRP‐Cre;Ghsrf/f mice showed a trend toward reduced basal metabolic rate, significantly reduced core body temperature and a decreased expression of thermogenic genes in brown adipose tissue. This suggests a metabolic reset to a lower threshold. Significantly increased physical activity, a trend toward increased food anticipatory behaviour and altered fuel preferences were also observed in these mice. In addition, these CR‐fed AgRP‐Cre;Ghsrf/f mice exhibited a decreased counter‐regulatory response, showing impaired hepatic glucose production. Lastly, hypothalamic gene expression in AgRP‐Cre;Ghsrf/f mice revealed increased AgRP expression and a decreased expression of genes in β‐oxidation pathways. In summary, our data suggest that GHS‐R in AgRP neurones is a key component of the neurocircuitry involved in metabolic adaptation to calorie restriction.
Inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor stimulates prolactin expression in primary culture of the mouse pituitary gland
Authors: Nogami Haruo , Koshida Ryusuke , Omori Hiroyuki , Shibata Masahiro , Harigaya Toshio , Takei Yosuke
Published: June 2019

The roles of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the regulation of prolactin (PRL) gene expression in the normal pituitary gland remain poorly understood. In the present study, the effects of EGF and an inhibitor of the EGF receptor, erlotinib, on PRL gene expression were examined both in the pituitary tumour cell line GH3 and in a primary culture of the mouse pituitary gland under similar experimental conditions. The results showed that EGF stimulated PRL expression in GH3 cells, but not in normal cells. Erlotinib was found to counteract EGF in GH3 cells inhibiting the PRL expression enhanced by EGF. By contrast, erlotinib induced an elevation in the PRL mRNA levels in the primary culture of the adult pituitary gland and the initiation of PRL production in the culture of the foetal pituitary gland in which PRL production had not yet occurred. Western blot analyses showed that EGF induced and erlotinib inhibited the activation of extracellular regulated protein kinase equally in GH3 and normal cells. These results suggest that the consequences of EGF receptor activation in normal PRL cells contradict those in adenomatous PRL cells.
A Proposed Framework for Using the Life‐Coaching Process to Enhance the Quality of Life of Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Case Study
Authors: Shpigelman Carmit‐Noa
Published: June 2019

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often find themselves excluded from community participation due to environmental barriers, especially stigma. These barriers can negatively affect their psychological well‐being and quality of life. Life‐coaching as a short‐term and action‐prone process can increase goal attainment in various life‐domains and lead to enhanced quality of life. Nevertheless, to date, few life‐coaching interventions have targeted individuals with IDD. This case study article aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of a conceptual framework for practicing life‐coaching with individuals with IDD, by describing two cases of individuals with IDD who participated in a life‐coaching intervention. Life‐coaching, based on the proposed framework, can be a potential intervention to enhance the capability set, self‐determination skills, and overall quality of life of people with IDD. It appears that in order for the life‐coaching process to successfully address psychosocial aspects of the quality of life concept among people with IDD, it must be tailored to their needs and competences.
The effect of NLRP inflammasome on the regulation of AGEs‐induced inflammatory response in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Yi Xiaowei , Zhang Lan , Lu Wanlu , Tan Xuelian , Yue Junli , Wang Puyu , Xu Weizhe , Ye Ling , Huang Dingming
Published: June 2019

Background and Objective

Diabetes influences the frequency and development of periodontitis. Inflammation of human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs) participates in this pathologic process. Hence, this study aims to explore whether advanced glycation end products (AGEs), by‐products of diabetes, could exaggerate inflammation induced by muramyl dipeptide (MDP) in HPDLCs, and whether nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptors (NLRs) signaling pathway was involved.

Material and Methods

Human periodontal ligament cells were pre‐treated with 100 μg/mL AGEs for 24 hours and stimulated with 10 μg/mL MDP for 24 hours. IL‐6, IL‐1β, and RAGE were detected, and the activation of NF‐κB signaling pathway was observed. The expression of NLRs was evaluated with or without silencing RAGE or blocking NF‐κB pathway under AGEs stimulation. Statistical analyses were performed by using independent sample t test.

Results

Advanced glycation end products induced significant increase of inflammatory cytokines in HPDLCs (P < 0.05). Results of western blot (WB) showed that after 45 minutes stimulation of AGEs, p‐p65/p65 ratio peaked; AGEs promoted the expression of NLRP1, NLRP3, and apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a CARD (ASC). After silencing RAGE or blocking NF‐κB pathway, the up‐regulation of NLRs protein caused by AGEs was attenuated. Additionally, AGEs pre‐treatment could enhance the inflammatory response of MDP and the expression of NLRs, which were demonstrated by more expression of IL‐6, IL‐1β, NOD2, NLRP1, NLRP3, and ASC.

Conclusion

Advanced glycation end products induced inflammatory response in HPDLCs via NLRP1‐inflammasome and NLRP3‐inflammasome activation in which NF‐κB signal pathway was involved. Besides, AGEs promoted the inflammatory response of MDP via NOD2, NLRP1‐inflammasome, and NLRP3‐inflammasome.
Acting as Expected: Global Leadership Preferences and the Pursuit of an Integrated Supply Chain
Authors: Kull Thomas , Wiengarten Frank , Power Damien , Shah Piyush
Published: June 2019

While research has extensively explored the potential benefits companies gain with integrated supply chains, the topic of why some companies are better at pursuing supply chain integration (SCI) is relatively under‐examined. We take the perspective that SCI is associated with preferred forms of leadership using leadership preference derived from path–goal logic. By combining global data sources, we examine the relationships among leadership style preferences, internal integration (i.e., between sales and purchasing) programs, and external integration (i.e., supplier side) programs. Our country‐level results challenge the assumption that the choice to pursue internal and external integration has similar origins. Specifically, while collaborative‐style leadership preferences relate to internal integration programs, societies preferring individualistic‐style leaders will be predisposed toward external integration programs. Our study’s contribution is in the novel use of theories on leadership to explain variations in approaches toward supply chain integration.
Characterizing Monetary and Fiscal Policy Rules and Interactions when Commodity Prices Matter
Authors: Chuku Chuku , Middleditch Paul
Published: June 2019

We examine the extent to which commodity price fluctuations matter for monetary and fiscal policy formulation in high primary commodity export economies. Markov mixture specifications of monetary and fiscal policy rules, stylized to account for commodity price slacks are estimated using specifically designed Bayesian techniques. We find that policymakers do indeed respond to commodity price slacks, and with varying degrees, depending on the policy regime in place and the country under investigation. Policy is characterized by distinctive episodes of active and passive policy regimes, driven by the response of monetary policy to inflation and the response of fiscal policy to past government debt. Moreover, monetary authorities fail to act aggressively enough to achieve announced inflation targets or to synchronize with fiscal authorities. The results hold implications for the correct specification of policy rules and interactions in DSGE models for these economies.