bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating technology to service innovation
Authors: Lee Minwoo , Ahn Jiseon , Shin Minjung , Kwon Wooseok , Back Ki-Joon
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This study aims to provide an understanding of the concept of service innovation resulting from emerging technologies and suggest areas for future hospitality and tourism research. By thoroughly reviewing previous literature, this study provides the basis for improving customer service with service innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the existing body of knowledge from leading hospitality, tourism and business journals by performing content analysis.

Findings

This study reveals the multifaceted aspects of service innovation practices using emerging technologies. Findings provide an evidence base to future studies by highlighting the role of technology in hospitality and tourism service innovation.

Originality/value

The major contribution of this study is the demonstration of an approach for both academic researchers and service providers how they can use the technology to improve customers’ perceived value, experience and engagement.
Resource co-specialization in outsourcing of enterprise systems software
Authors: Kim Sung Min , Anand Gopesh , Larson Eric C. , Mahoney Joseph
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Enterprise systems are commonly implemented by firms through outsourcing arrangements with software vendors. However, deriving benefits from these implementations has proved to be a challenge, and a great deal of variation has been observed in the extent of value generated for client and vendor firms. This research examines the role of co-specialization as a strategy to make the most out of outsourced enterprise systems. The authors develop hypotheses relating resource co-specialization with two indicators of success for implementation of enterprise software: (1) exchange success and (2) firm growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are tested using a unique panel data set of 175 firms adopting Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software, a type of enterprise system used for managing manufacturing and logistics. The authors identify organizational factors that support co-specialization and then examine how co-specialization is associated with enterprise software implementation success, controlling for the endogenous choice to co-specialize.

Findings

The empirical results suggest that resource co-specialization is positively associated with implementation success and that the two resource co-specialization pathways that are examined complement each other in providing performance benefits.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the research literature on outsourcing. The study also provides a new empirical test using a unique data set of 175 firms adopting APS Software.
Understanding the tangible gifts language of appreciation
Authors: White Paul , Hamrick Natalie
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Businesses are spending billions of dollars on recognition rewards with the intent of boosting employee engagement, job satisfaction, and ultimately, their bottom line. However, employee engagement is at an all-time low. The purpose of this study was designed to take a step back to understand if there are demographic differences that influence personal preferences for tangible gifts as their preferred language of appreciation and of those who prefer to receive gifts, what types of gifts are most valued.

Design/methodology/approach

This study compared the demographics of those who selected tangible gifts as their primary (N  =  8,811), secondary (N = 14,827) or least valued (N  = 108,586) language of appreciation (motivating by appreciation inventory, White, 2011). From those with tangible gifts as their primary language of appreciation, 500 were randomly selected to code their open-ended suggestions for a preferred gift.

Findings

There are no important factors across the demographics of gender, age or work setting that influence whether individuals are more or less likely to choose tangible gifts as their primary, secondary or least valued language of appreciation. Respondents identified gift cards, additional paid time off and gifts related to desired personal experiences as their top gift choices.

Originality/value

When giving gifts to colleagues, discovering individuals’ personal preferences (favorite store, restaurant, ticketed event, food, drink and lunch option) is more likely to result in a gift that “hits the mark” in showing appreciation to the recipient.
Iodine‐containing food practices of Western Australian pregnant women and ethnicity: An observational study
Authors: Sherriff Jill , Hine Tammy , Begley Andrea , Zhao Yun , Black Lucinda , Dunlop Eleanor , Skeaff Sheila
Published: October 2019

Aims

The Australian Health Survey 2011 to 2013 indicated that Western Australian women had good iodine status, suggesting adequate consumption of iodine from food, however, little is known about pregnant women in this state. The aim was to investigate the iodine‐containing food practices of Western Australian pregnant women.

Methods

Pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at a public tertiary hospital in Perth, Western Australia, were invited to complete a questionnaire investigating consumption of key iodine food sources and knowledge of iodine‐containing foods. Food frequency data were entered into FoodWorks based on the Australian Food and Nutrition Database 2007.

Results

A total of 425 women took part in the study with a mean (SD) age of 29.4 (5.5) years. Sixty percent of women reported consuming bread at least daily. Only 37.6% of women used iodised salt, but the median (25, 75 percentile) iodine intake of these women was 183 (142, 267) μg/day compared to 148 (100, 228) μg/day of iodine from food only. Ethnicity was associated with iodised salt use: 76% of Asian women compared with 33% of Caucasian women. Three quarters of the women did not know if any foods are required to be fortified with iodine.

Conclusion

The iodine‐containing food practices of pregnant women in this state suggest a risk of insufficiency. The present study is limited by the use of a semi‐quantitative and non‐validated food frequency questionnaire, thus assessment of the iodine intake and status of pregnant women representative of the ethnic mix of Western Australia is recommended.
Subsidies and agricultural productivity in the EU
Authors: Garrone Maria , Emmers Dorien , Lee Hyejin , Olper Alessandro , Swinnen Johan
Published: October 2019

This paper investigates the relationship between EU agricultural subsidies and agricultural labor productivity growth by estimating a conditional convergence growth model. We use more representative subsidy indicators and a wider coverage (panel data from 213 EU regions over the period 2004–2014) than have been used before. We find that, on average, EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) subsidies increase agricultural labor productivity growth, but this aggregate effect hides important heterogeneity of effects of different types of subsidies. The positive effect on productivity comes from decoupled subsidies, that is, Pillar I decoupled payments and some Pillar II payments. Coupled Pillar I subsidies have the opposite effect: they slow down productivity growth.
Trends in the overall survival rates in women with advanced ovarian cancer in a single tertiary centre in New Zealand
Authors: Yeoh Sara , Simcock Bryony , Innes Carrie , Mclachlan Jennifer , Harker Dianne , Sykes Peter
Published: October 2019

Background

Survival rates for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are much poorer than other gynaecological cancers and greatly depend on stage at diagnosis. A recent publication showed that unlike some other developed countries, there has been no improvement in the five‐year survival rate for those diagnosed with ovarian cancer in New Zealand.

Aim

To compare the five‐year survival rate of women diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in a single tertiary hospital during two 36‐month time periods 10 years apart.

Materials and Methods

An observational retrospective review of patient clinical notes, including all women diagnosed with stage three or four ovarian cancer between 2000 and 2002 (Cohort 1) and 2010–2012 (Cohort 2). Eligible patients were identified through the Regional Gynaecology Oncology database. Clinical notes were reviewed to compare the five‐year survival rate between these two time periods and look at changes in patterns of care over time.

Results

Eighty‐three women were diagnosed in 2000–2002 and 125 women in 2010–2012. There was no difference in five‐year survival between cohorts (21.7% vs 23.2%, P = 0.80). Mean age at diagnosis did not differ between cohorts (62.1 years vs 63.5 years, P = 0.43); however, there were more women with stage four cancer in Cohort 2 (14% vs 30%, P = 0.01). In Cohort 2, more women were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (20% vs 34%, P = 0.04) or chemotherapy only (6% vs 18%, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Five‐year overall survival in women diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in our centre has not changed over the last 10 years.
Virtual implantations to transition from porcine to bovine animal models for a total artificial heart
Authors: Sonntag Simon J. , Meyns Bart , Ahn Henrik C. , Pahlm Fredrik , Hellers Göran , Najar Azad , Pieper Ina Laura
Published: October 2019

Realheart total artificial heart (TAH) is a novel, pulsatile, four‐chamber total artificial heart which had been successfully tested acutely in a porcine animal model. However, the bovine model is better suited for long‐term testing and thus an evaluation of how the design would fit the bovine anatomy was required. Virtual implantation is a method that enables a computer simulated implantation based on anatomical 3D‐models created from computer tomography images. This method is used clinically, but not yet adopted for animal studies. Herein, we evaluated its suitability in the redesign of the outer dimensions and vessel connections of Realheart TAH to transition from the porcine to the bovine animal model. Virtual implantations in combination with bovine cadaver studies enabled a series of successful acute bovine implantations. Virtual implantations are a useful tool to replace the use of animals in early device development and refine subsequent necessary in vivo experiments. The next steps are to carry out human virtual implantations and cadaver studies to ensure the design is optimized for all stages of testing as well as the final recipient.
Genotypes and allele frequencies of buried SNPs in a bovine single‐nucleotide polymorphism array in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Sasaki Shinji , Muraki Eiji , Inoue Yoshinobu , Suezawa Ryouhei , Nikadori Hideki , Yoshida Yuuichi , Nariai Shouta , Hideshima Ryoya , Moriwaki Shiyunsuke , Nakashima Ryotaro , Uchiyama Katsuo , Yoshinari Kanako , Takeda Masayuki , Kojima Takatoshi
Published: October 2019

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays are widely used for genetic and genomic analyses in cattle breeding; thus, data derived from SNP arrays have accumulated on a large scale nationwide. Commercial SNP arrays contain a considerable number of unassigned SNPs on the chromosome/position on the genome; these SNPs are excluded in subsequent analyses. Notably, the position‐unassigned SNPs, or “buried SNPs” include some of the markers associated with genetic disease. In this study, we identified the position of buried SNPs using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool against the surrounding sequences and characterized the relationship between SNPs and genetic diseases in Online Mendelian Inheritance in Animals based on the genomic position. We determined the position of 285 buried SNPs on the genome and surveyed the genotype and allele frequencies of these SNPs in 5,955 individual Japanese Black cattle. Eleven SNPs associated with genetic disease, which contained five buried SNPs, were found in the population with the risk allele frequency ranging from 0.00008396 to 0.46. These results indicate that buried SNPs in the bovine SNP array can be utilized to identify associations with genetic disorders from large scale accumulated SNP genotype data in Japanese Black cattle.
The continual impact of the Paris System on urine cytology, a 3‐year experience
Authors: Stanzione Nicholas , Ahmed Tagreed , Fung Po Chu , Cai Diancai , Lu David Y. , Sumida Lauren C. , Moatamed Neda A.
Published: October 2019

Objective

The development of the Paris System (TPS) has provided a standard and reproducible system for reporting urine cytopathology. Our goal was to study the impact of TPS on the diagnostic accuracy of urine cytology since we began using it in 2016.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of all urine cytology specimens received at our institution from January 2015 through July 2017. Cases were included in the study if they had corresponding surgical pathology follow up. In total, 3829 cases were identified over this time period, with 381 cases meeting inclusion criteria, comprising 87 cases from 2015, 166 from 2016 and 128 from 2017. Using the histopathology diagnosis as the gold standard, sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV) and diagnostic accuracy (DA) for the detection of carcinoma were calculated.

Results

Before TPS, urine cytology had a sensitivity of 100.0%, specificity of 12.5%, PPV of 83.5%, NPV of 100.0% and DA of 83.9%. After TPS, for 2016, urine cytology had sensitivity of 87.1%, specificity of 95.9%, PPV of 96.4%, NPV of 85.4% and DA of 91.0%. For 2017 after TPS, the sensitivity was 81.7%, specificity was 100.0%, PPV was 100.0%, NPV was 81.4% and DA was 89.8%.

Conclusion

For the detection of urinary tract malignancy, after switching to TPS, we observed a marked increase in urine cytology specificity and PPV, both of which continued to gradually increase from 2016 to 2017. The DA also improved with TPS.
What Do We Mean When We Say “Pass Rate”?
Authors: Wyse Adam E. , Anderson Dan
Published: October 2019

Pass rates are key assessment statistics which are calculated for nearly all high‐stakes examinations. In this article, we define the terminal, first attempt, total attempts, and repeat attempts pass rates, and discuss the uses of each statistic. We also explain why in many situations one should expect the terminal pass rate to be the highest, first attempt pass rate to be the second highest, total attempts pass rate to be the third highest, and repeat attempts pass rate to be the lowest when repeat attempts are allowed. Analyses of data from 14 credentialing programs showed that the expected relationship held for 13 out of 14 of the programs. Additional analyses of pass rates for educational programs in radiography in one state showed that the general relationship held at the state level, but only held for 6 out of 34 educational programs. It is suggested that credentialing programs need to clearly state their pass rate definitions and carefully consider how repeat examinees may influence pass rate statistics. It is also suggested that credentialing programs need to think carefully about the meaning and uses of different pass rate statistics when choosing which pass rates to report to stakeholders.
Water‐use efficiency in a semi‐arid woodland with high rainfall variability
Authors: Tarin Tonantzin , Nolan Rachael H. , Medlyn Belinda E. , Cleverly James , Eamus Derek
Published: October 2019

As the ratio of carbon uptake to water use by vegetation, water‐use efficiency (WUE) is a key ecosystem property linking global carbon and water cycles. It can be estimated in several ways, but it is currently unclear how different measures of WUE relate, and how well they each capture variation in WUE with soil moisture availability. We evaluated WUE in an Acacia‐dominated woodland ecosystem of central Australia at various spatial and temporal scales using stable carbon isotope analysis, leaf gas exchange and eddy covariance (EC) fluxes. Semi‐arid Australia has a highly variable rainfall pattern, making it an ideal system to study how WUE varies with water availability. We normalized our measures of WUE across a range of vapour pressure deficits using g1, which is a parameter derived from an optimal stomatal conductance model and which is inversely related to WUE. Continuous measures of whole‐ecosystem g1 obtained from EC data were elevated in the 3 days following rain, indicating a strong effect of soil evaporation. Once these values were removed, a close relationship of g1 with soil moisture content was observed. Leaf‐scale values of g1 derived from gas exchange were in close agreement with ecosystem‐scale values. In contrast, values of g1 obtained from stable isotopes did not vary with soil moisture availability, potentially indicating remobilization of stored carbon during dry periods. Our comprehensive comparison of alternative measures of WUE shows the importance of stomatal control of fluxes in this highly variable rainfall climate and demonstrates the ability of these different measures to quantify this effect. Our study provides the empirical evidence required to better predict the dynamic carbon–water relations in semi‐arid Australian ecosystems.
Far from a Burden: EU Migrants as Pioneers of a European Social Protection System from Below
Authors: Godin Marie
Published: October 2019

At a time when the belief in a welfare crisis is being connected to a so‐called “migration crisis”, in particular in the United Kingdom, it is important to look at the lived experiences of mobile EU citizens and the influence of transnational social protection practices. The article introduces the concept of a “migration‐welfare corridor” – as opposed to the widespread welfare magnet hypothesis – taking into consideration the role of welfare systems in origin and destination countries at different stages of a migrant's life cycle, the changing nature of the welfare habitus as well as migrants’ attitudes towards what can be defined as welfare chauvinism. Looking specifically at the case of Spanish and Polish migrants in the UK who have reacted to this protracted environment of deterrence, particularly in respect to their welfare rights, this paper discusses several dimensions that should be taken into consideration when analyzing transnational social protection practices from below.
Promoting nursing research globally: the writing to improve nursing science (WINS) program
Authors: Sun Carolyn , Kulage Kristine M. , Al‐Touby Salem , Nyamakura Rudo , Larson Elaine
Published: October 2019

Aim

To test the feasibility of a remote writing programme, Writing to Improve Nursing Science (WINS), for nursing scholars in low‐ and middle‐income countries and assess its impact on scholarly writing and dissemination.

Background

The ability to write and publish scholarly manuscripts is critical for successful nursing research careers. Yet, there is a lack of resources to appropriately mentor nurse scholars in this area. This is especially true for low‐ and middle‐income countries with fewer resources and a dearth of doctorally prepared nursing faculty.

Introduction

We adapted an existing university‐based writing class to mentor 10 nurse scientists through the writing and publication process utilizing three components: online didactic training, remote one‐to‐one mentorship and an in‐person peer‐reviewed writing workshop.

Methods

Ten nurse faculty from 10 countries selected via competitive application developed manuscripts with remote mentorship and online training for 6 months. Then, an in‐person workshop was held to conduct peer reviews of manuscripts. Mentorship continued for an additional year until the manuscript was either published or the participant no longer wished to pursue publication.

Results

All participants prepared a manuscript and were trained in manuscript writing, editing, and the peer review and submission process. To date, four manuscripts have been published.

Discussion

The Writing to Improve Nursing Science Program is a feasible model to increase publications among nursing faculty or students globally and allow the sharing of resources across countries.

Conclusion and implications for nursing policy

Innovative solutions for sharing of intellectual resources, such as this program may contribute to improving the evidence base globally. Nursing research policies should include a mentorship component to increase publications to improve nursing practice and related patient outcomes.
Peripheral arterial disease: Scoping review of patient‐centred outcomes
Authors: Bolton Laura
Published: October 2019

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) impairs patients’ quality of life (QOL), walking and ulcer healing, increasing patient pain, costs, and risks of amputation or mortality. A literature appraisal described PAD treatment capacity to improve validated patient‐centred outcomes in controlled clinical studies. The PUBMED database was searched from 1 January 1970 to 21 June 2018, for original and derivative controlled clinical trial references addressing MeSH terms for ‘ischemia’ AND ‘leg ulcer’. Non‐ischemic ulcer treatment references were excluded. Frequencies of improved (P < .05) outcomes were reported. Eighty‐eight studies on 4153 patients were summarized. Walking, pain or QOL improved mainly for interventions administered before PAD became severe. Amputation incidence, pain and ulcer healing were more frequently reported in those with severe PAD. Independent of PAD severity, patients experienced more likely improved walking, QOL, or pain reduction in response to structured walking interventions or those increasing calf muscle activity. Those with more severe PAD were more likely to report amputation reduction, mainly in response to invasive interventions. Those with PAD experienced more consistently improved patient‐centred outcomes if they received multidisciplinary PAD management with supervised walking or calf muscle activity, with more likely amputation risk reduced for those with more severe PAD.
Strain fields around strain‐concentrating features in fiber‐reinforced oxide composites
Authors: Samuel Avery F. , Christodoulou Paul G. , Zok Frank W.
Published: October 2019

Inelastic straining in the vicinity of strain‐concentrating features in fiber‐reinforced ceramic composites mitigates the high stresses that would otherwise be present and therefore alters the local conditions required to initiate fracture. The present study examines such effects through experimental measurements of strain fields around holes and notches in two oxide composites coupled with finite element simulations based on an inelastic constitutive model for the composite response. Computed strains fall within the bounds of experimental measurements for open‐hole tension over most of the loading history. The results motivate a fracture criterion based on attainment of a critical normal strain over a characteristic area. The response of single edge‐notched tensile specimens proves to be more challenging; because of the finite bending stiffness of the loading train, the boundary conditions on the test specimens evolve during loading, with bending playing an increasingly important role as the applied load is increased.
Distances between transseptal puncture site and anatomical landmarks
Authors: Derejko Paweł , Hasiec Andrzej , Bardyszewski Aleksander , Kuśnierz Jacek , Dzwonkowska Dobromiła , Szumowski Łukasz , Orczykowski Michał , Bodalski Robert , Baran Jakub , Gorlo Adam
Published: October 2019

The aim of the study was to provide quantitative data and to look for new landmarks useful during transseptal puncture (TSP) using a fluoroscopy‐guided approach.

Methods and results

A total of 104 patients at mean age 57 ± 12 years, of whom 92% underwent pulmonary vein isolation, were analysed. Before TSP catheters were placed in the coronary sinus (CS) and His bundle region. A guidewire running from femoral vein through great veins was left loose in superior vena cava.

Before TSP X‐ray images were taken in right anterior oblique (RAO) 45° and RAO 53° projections. Locations posterior to TSP site in RAO were described with negative values and those anterior with positive values.

The measured distances in millimeters were as follows: (a) between TSP site and posterior atrial wall (RAO 45 = –21 ± 7 mm; RAO 53 = –19 ± 6 mm (b) between TSP site and free guidewire (RAO 45 = –5 ± 4 mm, RAO 53 = –3 ± 4 mm (c) between TSP site and CS ostium (RAO 45 = 9 ± 6 mm; RAO 53 = 8 ± 5 mm (d) between TSP site and His region (RAO 45 = 29 ± 8 mm; RAO 53 = 30 ± 8 mm). We observed correlations between measured distances and age, body mass index and sizes of cardiac chambers. The distance between TSP site and the line projected by the guidewire running between great veins, measured in mid‐RAO projections, was very small.

Conclusion

The distances between TSP site and standard anatomical landmarks used during TSP vary with regard to age, physique and cardiac chamber dimensions. TSP site, as assessed in mid RAO, is in direct vicinity to the line projected by a guidewire running between the great veins.
Update on long QT syndrome
Authors: Neira Víctor , Enriquez Andrés , Simpson Chris , Baranchuk Adrian
Published: October 2019

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is an inherited disorder characterized by a prolonged QT interval in the 12‐lead electrocardiogram and increased risk of malignant arrhythmias in patients with a structurally normal heart. Since its first description in the 1950s, advances in molecular genetics have greatly improved our understanding of the cause and mechanisms of this disease. Sixteen genes linked to LQTS have been described and genetic testing had become an integral part of the diagnosis and risk stratification. This article provides an updated review of the genetic basis, diagnosis, and clinical management of LQTS.
Gingival histoplasmosis: An atypical presentation of African histoplasmosis in three baboons (Papio spp)
Authors: Johannigman Taylor A. , Gonzalez Olga , Dutton John W. , Kumar Shyamesh , Dick Edward J.
Published: October 2019

Gingival lesions as the sole manifestation of African histoplasmosis (Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii) have never been reported in baboons. Grossly, lesions can be indistinguishable from bacterial ulcerative gingivitis or gingival hyperplasia. Clinical outcomes of primary gingival histoplasmosis in baboons are unknown and may complicate colony management decisions.
Access to Collateral and the Democratization of Credit: France's Reform of the Napoleonic Security Code
Authors: ARETZ KEVIN , CAMPELLO MURILLO , MARCHICA MARIA‐TERESA
Published: October 2019

France's Ordonnance 2006‐346 repudiated the notion of possessory ownership in the Napoleonic Code, easing the pledge of physical assets in a country where credit was highly concentrated. A differences‐test strategy shows that firms operating newly pledgeable assets significantly increased their borrowing following the reform. Small, young, and financially constrained businesses benefitted the most, observing improved credit access and real‐side outcomes. Start‐ups emerged with higher “at‐inception” leverage, located farther from large cities, with more assets‐in‐place than before. Their exit and bankruptcy rates declined. Spatial analyses show that the reform reached firms in rural areas, reducing credit access inequality across France's countryside.
A prospective study using image analysis to assess the efficacy of a topical treatment kit for mild onychomycosis
Authors: Khammo Nancy , Chesters Dave , Goldstone Lauren , Kennedy Gayle , Buckley Carolyn
Published: October 2019

Background

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails and is one of the most common dermatological infections worldwide. Infection occurs predominantly in the nails of the feet and if left untreated patients, particularly in at‐risk populations, can develop more serious complications, including pain, fissuring and secondary infections. Fungal infections are also contagious and may spread to other nails or to family members. Topical treatments can be effective for mild cases of the disease and typically have fewer contraindications. However, generation of robust efficacy data for topical therapies is often hindered by the difficulties associated with monitoring progression of mild onychomycosis using the conventional methods of mycological culture to obtain confirmation of podiatrist assessments.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to demonstrate image analysis as an effective method to monitor progression of fungal nail infections.

Methods

A novel digital image analysis technique was used to evaluate improvement in the visual signs of onychomycosis, when using a topical treatment kit for mild fungal nail infections in 60 participants over a 280‐day period.

Results

Image analysis demonstrated a significant (P < .0001) reduction from baseline of the affected nail area throughout the study period, results which were also perceived by the subjects themselves. Use of the treatment kit also limited the deterioration of the infection and prevented transmission to other nails.

Conclusions

Image analysis was established as a viable method to monitor the progression of fungal nail infections over long periods and demonstrate a clinical benefit following treatment.
Peripheral tryptophan, serotonin, kynurenine, and their metabolites in major depression: A case–control study
Authors: Colle Romain , Masson Perrine , Verstuyft Céline , Fève Bruno , Werner Erwan , Boursier‐Neyret Claire , Walther Bernard , David Denis J. , Boniface Bruno , Falissard Bruno , Chanson Philippe , Corruble Emmanuelle , Becquemont Laurent
Published: October 2019

Aim

Tryptophan is the sole precursor of both peripherally and centrally produced serotonin and kynurenine. In depressed patients, tryptophan, serotonin, kynurenine, and their metabolite levels remain unclear. Therefore, peripheral tryptophan and metabolites of serotonin and kynurenine were investigated extensively in 173 patients suffering from a current major depressive episode (MDE) and compared to 214 healthy controls (HC).

Methods

Fasting plasma levels of 11 peripheral metabolites were quantified: tryptophan, serotonin pathway (serotonin, its precursor 5‐hydroxytryptophan and its metabolite 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid), and kynurenine pathway (kynurenine and six of its metabolites: anthranilic acid, kynurenic acid, nicotinamide, picolinic acid, xanthurenic acid, and 3‐hydroxyanthranilic acid).

Results

Sixty (34.7%) patients were antidepressant‐drug free. Tryptophan levels did not differ between MDE patients and HC. Serotonin and its precursor (5‐hydroxytryptophan) levels were lower in MDE patients than in HC, whereas, its metabolite (5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid) levels were within the standard range. Kynurenine and four of its metabolites (kynurenic acid, nicotinamide, picolinic acid, and xanthurenic acid) were lower in MDE patients.

Conclusion

Whilst the results of this study demonstrate an association between the metabolites studied and depression, conclusions about causality cannot be made. This study uses the largest ever sample of MDE patients, with an extensive assessment of peripheral tryptophan metabolism in plasma. These findings provide new insights into the peripheral signature of MDE. The reasons for these changes should be further investigated. These results might suggest new antidepressant therapeutic strategies.
Facial photoprotection in xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) patients: Validation of a new self‐reported questionnaire of adherence
Authors: Canfield Martha , Norton Sam , Walburn Jessica , Morrison‐Bowen Natalie , Sainsbury Kirby , Araujo‐Soares Vera , Sarkany Robert , Weinman John
Published: October 2019

Background/Purpose

Adherence to photoprotection is the only way to prevent skin cancers and eye disease in xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). No validated self‐report questionnaire exists for assessing adherence to photoprotection practices in individuals with XP. We sought to validate a self‐reported measure of adherence to face photoprotection in this population.

Methods

Sixty six XP patients recruited from the patient list of the XP specialist service in London, UK, completed a questionnaire of adherence to specific photoprotection behaviours. We measured objective ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure to the face continuously for 21 days with a wristworn UVR electronic dosimeter combined with a daily photoprotection diary. Reliability and convergent validity of the questionnaire were tested in relation to overall UVR exposure, UVR dose to the face, daily photoprotection activities, other self‐reported photoprotection practices and clinical ratings of patient's protection.

Results

Internal consistency of the questionnaire was satisfactory. Questionnaire total scores were concordant with objective UVR exposure and UVR dose to the face. However, not all participants who reported good/excellent face photoprotection on the questionnaire recorded high levels of photoprotection in the daily diary. Correlations between the questionnaire and other practices and the clinical rating ranged from small to large in size. There was no correlation between the level of face photoprotection and self‐reported avoidance of going outside.

Conclusions

Our questionnaire was reliable and had good convergent validity with other indicators of photoprotection. This questionnaire could assist clinicians to detect low levels of adherence, and the methodology used to develop validated questionnaires for other photosensitive conditions.
N400/frontal negativity reveals the controlled processes of taxonomic and thematic relationships in semantic priming for artifacts
Authors: Liang Xiuling , Xiao Feng , Lei Yi , Li Hong , Chen Qingfei
Published: October 2019

Recent studies show that taxonomic and thematic relationships are functionally and neurologically dissociated; however, there remain some discrepancies due to inconsistencies in definitions, task properties, and concept domains. This issue was further explored via the semantic priming paradigm with a long SOA of 600 ms while controlling for perceptual or functional features of artifacts involved across taxonomic and thematic relationships. Six conditions were compared: perceptual relationship (axe–helve), functional relationship (axe–wood), perceptual classification (axe–hammer), functional classification (axe–saw), unrelated condition (axe–skates), and nonword (axe–derf) conditions. Behavioral priming effects are found for all related conditions relative to unrelated conditions except for perceptual relationships, whereas semantic priming effects (smaller N400 amplitude) are found for functional relationships and perceptual classification relative to unrelated conditions but not for perceptual relationships and functional classification, indicating perceptual features are less important than functional features for artifacts. Furthermore, the frontal negativity elicited by functional relationships is smaller than all other related conditions at 400–550 ms, while it is only smaller than functional classification at 550–650 ms. These results indicate that, besides different features, taxonomic and thematic relationships are dissociated to organize object knowledge, which is primarily fuelled by feature processing, with taxonomic, or thematic, relationships further embedded with such sensory, or functional, features.
Obesity hypoventilation syndrome treated with non‐invasive ventilation: Is a switch to CPAP therapy feasible?
Authors: Arellano‐Maric Maria P. , Hamm Christine , Duiverman Marieke L. , Schwarz Sarah , Callegari Jens , Storre Jan H. , Schmoor Claudia , Spielmanns Marc , Galetke Wolfgang , Windisch Wolfram
Published: October 2019

Background and objective

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) can be treated with either continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) therapy; the device choice has important economic and operational implications.

Methods

This multicentre interventional trial investigated the safety and short‐term efficacy of switching stable OHS patients who were on successful NIV therapy for ≥3 months to CPAP therapy. Patients underwent an autotitrating CPAP night under polysomnography (PSG); if the ensuing parameters were acceptable, they were sent home on a fixed CPAP for a 4–6‐week period. It was hypothesized that blood gas analysis, PSG parameters and lung function tests would remain unchanged.

Results

A total of 42 OHS patients were recruited, of whom 37 patients were switched to CPAP therapy. All patients had a history of severe obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) I/II) was present in 52%. Regarding the primary outcome, 30 of 42 patients (71%, 95% CI: 55–84%) maintained daytime partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) levels ≤45 mm Hg after the home CPAP period. There was no further impairment in quality of life, sleep parameters or lung function. Interestingly, 24 patients (65%) preferred CPAP as their long‐term therapy, despite the high pressure levels used (mean: 13.8 ± 1.8 mbar). After the CPAP period, 7 of 37 patients were categorized as CPAP failure, albeit only due to mild hypercapnia (mean: 47.9 ± 2.7 mm Hg).

Conclusion

It is feasible to switch most stable OHS patients from NIV to CPAP therapy, a step that could significantly reduce health‐related costs. The auto‐adjusted CPAP device, used in combination with the analysis of the PSG and capnometry, is a valid titration method in OHS patients.
Introducing the concept of neurobiological foundation of Rorschach responses using the example of Oral Dependent Language
Authors: Giromini Luciano , Viglione Donald J. , Vitolo Enrico , Cauda Franco , Zennaro Alessandro
Published: October 2019

We introduce the concept of “neurobiological foundation” of Rorschach interpretations as an extension of the concept of behavioral representation as a foundation for interpretation of R‐PAS variables. Here, we propose that if there is a parallelism between the mental, verbal and perceptual behaviors occurring within the microcosm of the Rorschach task and those occurring in the external environment [behavioral foundation], then the same brain regions engaged by the test‐taker when producing of a given code, should be engaged also when reproducing, in the external environment, the same psychological processes underlying that specific Rorschach code [neurobiological foundation]. To investigate this concept, we used archival, fMRI data and tested whether producing Oral Dependency Language (ODL) responses would associate with increased activation in brain regions associated with dependency‐related, psychological processes. Results from a sample of 21 non‐clinical volunteers partially confirmed our hypothesis, providing some support to the neurobiological foundation of the ODL code.
Characterization of the first HLA‐DPA1*04:02 variant, DPA1*04:02:01:02, found in a Brazilian individual
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle , Santos Angela , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: October 2019

Characterization and confirmation of the first HLA‐DPA1*04:02 variant, called HLA‐DPA1*04:02:01:02.
Development of a Compact Vacuum Freeze Drying for Jelly Fish (Schypomedusae)
Authors: Alhamid M. Idrus , Yulianto M. , M. Nasruddin , A. Kosasih Engkos
Published: October 2019

A new design of a vacuum freeze drying with internal cooling and heater from condenser’s heat loss was built and tested. The dryer was used to dry jelly fish (scyphomedusae) to study the effect of drying parameter such as temperature within the drying chamber on mass losses (evaporation) during freezing stage and moisture ratio at the end of drying process and also the drying rate of vacuum drying process. The cold trap temperature rise in when activated the heating from condenser’s heat loss. The midili thin layer mathematical drying model was used to estimate and predict the moisture ratio curve base on different drying chamber temperature. The result of this experiment show that mass loss during freezing stage decreased with a decrease in drying chamber temperature with constant pressure. Drying time reduced with an increase in drying temperature. Drying chamber temperature decreasing has a result pressure saturation of material lower than drying chamber pressure have an effect mass transfer should not occurs.
Indoor Air Conditioning Unit Air Flow Performance Study – Characterization of Cross Flow Fan Designs
Authors: Yet New Mei , Raghavan Vijay R. , Chin W.M.
Published: October 2019

A detailed characterization is carried out on a typical cross flow fan used in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry, in order to understand the fan design in detail. The study is carried out numerically by use of the software FLUENT and followed by experimental validation. Appropriate grid size selection has done, the RMS error is less than 7%. From the study, it is concluded that the thickness of the blade determines the total flow area and flow rate delivered. When the internal blade angle is at 90°, shock free entry is incurred and maximum flow rate can be achieved. The external blade angle should be within 20 to 45 degrees, to avoid rapid drop of pressure coefficient and efficiency. Lastly, the formation of the eccentric vortex zone inside the cross flow fan and flow field pattern are observed. The forming location and size of the zone determines the total air flow rate delivered and the amount of flow leakage through the tongue. Thus, the efficiency of the fan is highly sensitive to the flow structure in this zone.
Characteristics of Drag Reduction by Guar Gum in Spiral Pipes
Authors: N. Yanuar , I. Gunawan , Baqi M.
Published: October 2019

On the transport of fluid using pipe, pressure drop is very important aspect because related with energy consumption. Special pipe as spiral pipe is used as a fuel mixing system of fuel oil on ships. It is intended to prevent precipitation and to reduce the pressure drop. The purpose of this research is to investigate the reduction of pressure drop in a spiral pipe with the addition biopolymer (guar gum). Spiral pipe with aspect ratio, P / Di = 4.3, 6.7 and 7.0 are used in this study. Working fluid used guar gum solution of 150 ppm and 300 ppm. Circular pipe with same diameter is used for comparison. Analysis of flow characteristics based on the power law model for non-Newtonian fluid. Experimental was conducted from low to high Reynolds number up to 50,000. The results showed that the effect of biopolymer guar gum solution can reduce drag either on a circular pipe or spiral pipe.
Examining Life Satisfaction Levels of Teachers Working in Special Education Institutions in Terms of Some Variables
Authors: Yavuz Mehmet , Yikmiş Ahmet
Published: October 2019

This study aims to examine life satisfaction levels of teachers working in special education institutions in terms of some variables. The study was carried out with 378 teachers working in 18 special education schools of Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education in 2017-2018 Academic Year. Survey model was used in the study. In order to collect the data, Satisfaction with Life Scale, which was developed by Diener, Emmons, Larsen and Griffin (1985), and which was adapted into Turkish by Dağlı and Baysal (2016), were used. Data were analyzed with SPSS program and T-Test and One-Way Anova were applied. According to the results of the study, a significant difference was revealed in favor of female teachers in terms of gender; and in terms of branch variable in favor of the teachers who were graduated from special education field. No significant differences were observed in terms of the support received from colleagues, the support received from managers, salary and age variables.
Naturaleza del derecho de subrogación en el contrato de seguro y su relación con la cotitularidad del asegurado y asegurador frente al tercero responsable
Authors: Sánchez-García Mateo
Published: October 2019

El presente artículo pretende exponer de manera analítica y reflexiva la naturaleza del derecho de  subrogación o llamado recupero del asegurador frente al tercero responsable del siniestro, así como sus implicaciones y naturaleza en la  cotitularidad de derechos entre el  asegurado y el asegurador frente al tercero responsable, y en especial frente al fenómeno de la  insuficiencia del crédito o insolvencia parcial del tercero responsable,   teniendo como marco normativo la ley y jurisprudencia española.
Laminar Forced Convection of Nanofluids in a Circular Tube: A New Nonhomogeneous Flow Model
Authors: Mandal Saptarshi , Ghoshdastidar P. S.
Published: October 2019

In this paper, the local and average heat transfer coefficient enhancement or deterioration, and rise in pumping power in steady, laminar alumina–water, titania–water, and carbon nanotube (CNT)–water nanofluids flow in a horizontal circular tube subjected to constant heat flux at the outer wall have been investigated numerically based on a new variable property nonhomogeneous flow model which takes into account agglomeration of nanoparticles. The results have been compared with the published experimental results of Utomo et al. (Utomo, A. T. et al., 2014, “The Effect of Nanoparticles on Laminar Heat Transfer in a Horizontal Tube,” Int. J. Heat Mass Transfer, 69, pp. 77–91.) using various property models of thermal conductivity and viscosity, and for equal Reynolds number, equal inlet velocity, equal mass flowrate, and equal pumping power of nanofluid and base fluid. Stream function–vorticity–temperature formulation and finite difference method have been used. Using the same Reynolds number of nanofluid and base fluid gives much higher enhancement in average heat transfer coefficient as compared to other modes of comparison. Interestingly, the criterion of equal pumping power gives negative percent enhancement in the case of CNT–water nanofluid. The pumping power is found to rise for all three nanofluids. It is found that consideration of agglomeration of nanoparticles has produced improved accuracy in the numerical solution.
Multi-Layer Graphene/SnO2 Nanocomposites as Negative Electrode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hou Chau-Chung , Brahma Sanjaya , Weng Shao-Chieh , Chang Chia-Chin , Huang Jow-Lay
Published: October 2019

We report the synthesis of SnO2/multi-layer graphene nanocomposites by an easy low temperature (60 °C) electroless plating route. An aqueous suspension containing Sn(BF4)2 with multi-layer graphene is reacted at 60 °C in an acidic environment for 1 h, and Na2S2O4 is used to reduce tin ion from Sn(BF4)2. After electroless plating, the presence of SnO2 particle (15–35 nm) attached to the multi-layer graphene is confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Tin oxide (SnO2) can be used to modify multi-layer graphene via electroless plating process decorating with oxygen-containing functional groups. It is found that the electroless plating has enhanced the electrochemical performance of SnO2 and multi-layer graphene that shows reasonably good capacity (∼243 mAh g−1 after 50 charge/discharge cycles) and high Coulombic efficiency (∼78%).
Anisotropy Characterization Using Abbott–Firestone Curves
Authors: Roy Ashutosh , Vemaganti Kumar
Published: October 2019

In this work, we use the Abbott–Firestone curve as the basis to develop a simple quantitative approach to measure the anisotropy of a surface. The main idea is to measure the difference between the curves for two mutually perpendicular directions over the surface as a function of the orientation of the lines. The approach is tested on a number of isotropic and anisotropic surfaces, both real and numerically generated.