bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The model of distribution of human and machine labor at intellectual production in industry 4.0
Authors: Inshakova Agnessa O. , Frolova Evgenia E. , Rusakova Ekaterina P. , Kovalev Sergey I.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to develop a model of distribution of human and machine labor at intellectual production in Industry 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

The basis of the methodology of the research is regression analysis. The analyzed variables are independent variables that characterize the level of development of human and machine labor in the economy of a country; dependent variables that reflect the effectiveness of the production, marketing and innovative business processes in the economy of country according to “The Global Competitiveness Report” (World Economic Forum); and dependent variables, which show the share of the sphere (agriculture, mining industry, processing industry and service sphere) in the structure of GDP of a country according to the statistics of the World Bank. For determining the change of regression dependencies in dynamics in the interests of reduction of the probability of statistical error, the research is conducted for 2010 and 2018 with application of trend analysis.

Findings

Based on the full selection of modern countries that conduct digital modernization, the authors determine statistical dependencies of effectiveness of business processes and development of the spheres of economy on the intensity of application of machine and human labor. This allowed determining significant differences in automatization of business processes: perspectives of application of machine labor are the widest in production and the narrowest in marketing, differentiated logic of organization of intellectual production in different spheres of economy and the specifics of automatization of business processes and spheres of economy in countries of different categories, one of which has to be taken into account during organization of intellectual production in Industry 4.0.

Originality/value

The developed model of optimal distribution of human and machine labor at intellectual production in Industry 4.0 will allow reducing disproportions in effectiveness of different business processes, development of different spheres of economy and growth rate of developed and developing countries. This explains its contribution into provision of well-balanced development of the modern global economic system.
Internet of Things – the future of managing supply chain risks
Authors: Birkel Hendrik Sebastian , Hartmann Evi
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the implications for supply chain risk management (SCRM) by applying internet of things (IoT). Therefore, the impact and effects on the SCRM process, as well as the internal and external pathway and the outcome of SCRM are examined.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a multiple case study methodology with twelve companies from the manufacturing industry. This study is guided by the information processing theory (IPT) and a theory-grounded research framework to provide insights into information requirements and information processing capabilities for IoT-supported SCRM.

Findings

The studied cases demonstrate an increase in data availability in the companies that contribute to improved process transparency and process management. Furthermore, the process steps, risk transparency, risk knowledge and risk strategies have been enhanced, which enabled improved SCRM performance by fitting information requirements and information processing capabilities, thus allowing for competitive advantage.

Practical implications

This study offers in-depth insights for SCRM managers into the structure of IoT systems, primary use cases and changes for the process itself. Furthermore, implications for employees, incentives and barriers are identified, which could be used to redesign SCRM.

Originality/value

This study addresses the requirement for additional empirical research on technology-enhanced SCRM, supported by IPT as a theoretical foundation. The radical change of SCRM by IoT is demonstrated while discussing the human role, implications for SCRM strategies and identifying relevant topics for future development.
In-game advertising: the role of newness congruence and interactivity
Authors: Vashisht Devika , Mohan HFO Surindar , Chauhan Abhishek
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of game newness and game interactivity on players’ brand recall and brand attitude using contrast effect, mind-engagement and transfer effect theories.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (newness: congruent or incongruent) × 2 (game interactivity: high or low) between-subjects measures design was conducted. A total of 224 undergraduate management students participated in the study. A 2 × 2 between-subjects measures multivariate analysis of variance was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Findings show that incongruent-newness results in higher brand recall but less favorable brand attitude. Under incongruent-newness condition, high interactivity results in higher brand recall. However, under congruent-newness condition, both high- and low-interactivity conditions result in similar brand recall. Under congruent-newness condition, high interactivity results in more favorable brand attitude, whereas under incongruent-newness condition, both high- and low-interactivity conditions result in similar brand attitude.

Practical implications

Developing high brand recall rates and attitudes are the prime goals of advertisers for selecting a medium to promote their brands. This experimental study adds to the knowledge of online media advertising, especially in-game advertising (IGA) as a media-strategy to advertise brands taking newness and game-interactivity factors into consideration.

Originality/value

From the perspectives of attention, cognitive elaboration, engagement and transportation of experience, this study adds to the literature of IGA by examining the impact of newness and game interactivity.
Municipal solid waste generation, composition, and management: the global scenario
Authors: Sharma Kapil Dev , Jain Siddharth
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Due to the increasing population and prosperity, the generation rate of municipal solid waste (MSW) has increased significantly, resulting in serious problems on public health and the environment. Every single person in the world is affected by the municipal solid waste management (MSWM) issue. MSWM is reaching a critical level in almost all areas of the world and seeking the development of MSW strategies for a sustainable environment. This paper aims to present the existing global status of MSW generation, composition, management and related problems.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 59 developed and developing countries have been grouped based on their gross national income to compare the status of various MSWM technologies among them. A total of 19 selection criteria have been discussed to select appropriate MSWM technology(s) for a city/town, which affects their applicability, operational suitability and performance. All risks and challenges arising during the life cycle of the waste to energy (WtE) project have also been discussed. This paper also gives a comparative overview of different globally accepted MSWM technologies and the present market growth of all WtE technologies.

Findings

It was found that most developed countries have effectively implemented the solid waste management (SWM) hierarchy and are now focusing heavily on reducing, reusing and recycling of MSW. On the other hand, SWM has become very serious in low-income and low-middle-income countries because most of the MSW openly dumps and most countries are dependent on inadequate waste infrastructure and the informal sector. There are also some other major challenges related to effective waste policies, availability of funds, appropriate technology selection and adequacy of trained people. This study clears the picture of MSW generation, composition, management strategies and policies at the worldwide context. This manuscript could be valuable for all nations around the world where effective MSWM has not yet been implemented.

Originality/value

This study clears the picture of solid waste generation, composition, management strategies and policies at the worldwide context. This manuscript could be valuable for all nations around the world where effective MSWM has not yet been implemented. In this study, no data was generated. All supporting data were obtained from previously published papers in journals, the outcomes of the international conferences and published reports by government organizations.
Mechanical reliability of self-aligned chip assembly after reflow soldering process
Authors: Ali Mokhtar Mohd Najib , Abdullah M.Z. , Saad Abdullah Aziz , Cheani Fakhrozi
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper focuses on the reliability of the solder joint after the self-alignment phenomenon during reflow soldering. The aim of this study is to analyse the joint quality of the self-alignment assemblies of SnAg alloy solder joints with varying silver content.

Design/methodology/approach

The shear strength assessment was conducted in accordance with the JIS Z3 198-7 standard. The standard visual inspection of IPC-A-610G was also performed to inspect the self-alignment features of the solder joint samples. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine the probabilistic relationship of shear strength of the misalignment components.

Findings

The results from the mechanical reliability study indicate that there were decreasing trends in the shear strength value as misalignment offset increased. For shift mode configuration in the range of 0-300 µm, the resulting chip assembly inspection after the reflow process was in line with the IPC-A-610G standard. The statistical analysis shows that the solder type variation was insignificant to the shear strength of the chip resistor. The study concluded that the fracture occurred partially in the termination metallization at the lower part of the chip resistor. The copper content of the joint on that area shows that the crack occurred in the solder joint, and high silver content on the selected zone indicated that the fracture happened partially in the termination structure, as the termination structure of the lead-free chip resistor consists of an inner layer of silver and an outer layer of tin.

Practical implications

This study’s findings provide valuable guidelines and references to engineers and integrated circuit designers during the reflow soldering process in the microelectronics industry.

Originality/value

Studies on the effect of component misalignment on joint mechanical reliability are still limited, and studies on solder joint reliability involving the effect of differing contents of silver on varying chip component offset are rarely reported. Thus, this study is important to effectively bridge the research gap and yield appropriate guidelines in the potential industry.
Wound, pressure ulcer and burn guidelines – 6: Guidelines for the management of burns, second edition
Authors: Yoshino Yuichiro , Hashimoto Akira , Ikegami Ryuta , Irisawa Ryokichi , Kanoh Hiroyuki , Sakurai Eiichi , Nakanishi Takeshi , Maekawa Takeo , Tachibana Takao , Amano Masahiro , Hayashi Masahiro , Ishii Takayuki , Iwata Yohei , Kawakami Tamihiro , Sarayama Yasuko , Hasegawa Minoru , Matsuo Koma , Ihn Hironobu , Omoto Yoichi , Madokoro Naoki , Isei Taiki , Otsuka Masaki , Kukino Ryuichi , Shintani Yoichi , Hirosaki Kuninori , Motegi Seiichiro , Kawaguchi Masakazu , Asai Jun , Isogai Zenzo , Kato Hiroshi , Kono Takeshi , Tanioka Miki , Fujita Hideki , Yatsushiro Hiroshi , Sakai Keisuke , Asano Yoshihide , Ito Takaaki , Kadono Takafumi , Koga Monji , Tanizaki Hideaki , Fujimoto Manabu , Yamasaki Osamu , Doi Naotaka , Abe Masatoshi , Inoue Yuji , Kaneko Sakae , Kodera Masanari , Tsujita Jun , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Le Pavoux Andres
Published: April 2020

“Wound, pressure ulcer and burn guidelines – 6: Guidelines for the management of burns, second edition” is revised from the first edition which was published in the Japanese Journal of Dermatology in 2016. The guidelines were drafted by the Wound, Pressure Ulcer and Burn Guidelines Drafting Committee delegated by the Japanese Dermatological Association, and intend to facilitate physicians’ clinical decisions in preventing, diagnosing and treating burn injury. All sections are updated by collecting documents published since the publication of the first edition. Especially, the recommendation levels of dressing materials newly covered by the Japanese national health insurance are mentioned. In addition, the clinical questions (CQ) regarding the initial treatment of electrical (CQ15) and chemical burns (CQ16), and also the use of escharotomy (CQ22), are newly created.
Changes of frequency and expression level of CD161 in CD8+ T cells and natural killer T cells in peripheral blood of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Park Yumi , Lim Jinsook , Kim Seon Young , Kwon Gye Cheol , Koo Sun Hoe , Kim Jimyung
Published: April 2020

Immunologic abnormalities of natural killer (NK) cells and T cells play a role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). CD161 is expressed on most of the NK cells and on some T cells. The quantities of CD161‐expressing cells and expression levels of CD161 were analyzed in T cells and NK cells from patients with SLE compared with normal controls. The expression of CD161 on NK cells, NKT cells, CD4+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells in peripheral blood from patients with inactive SLE and active SLE, and from the normal controls group were determined using flow cytometry. The frequency and expression level of CD161 in the lymphocyte subsets and its relationship with the quantity of regulatory T cells, anti‐double stranded DNA antibody, and the titer of antinuclear antibody were evaluated. Both the percentages of the CD161+ subpopulation and the mean fluorescence intensities (MFIs) of CD161 in CD8+ T cells and NKT cells decreased significantly in SLE patients compared with normal controls (P < .001). The CD161 expression in CD8+ T cells and NKT cells also decreased in the anti‐dsDNA (+) group (P < .05). The counts of Treg cells were lower in SLE patients and were weakly correlated with the percentage of the CD161 subpopulation (r = 0.229, P = .016) and the MFIs of CD161 expression in CD8+ T cells (r = .232, P = .014). The frequencies and levels of CD161 expression on CD8+ T cells and NKT cells were reduced in SLE patients, suggesting that an abnormality of these cells was related to the pathogenesis of SLE.
Forest damage by deer depends on cross‐scale interactions between climate, deer density and landscape structure
Authors: Spake Rebecca , Bellamy Chloe , Gill Robin , Watts Kevin , Wilson Tom , Ditchburn Ben , Eigenbrod Felix
Published: April 2020

Deer (Cervidae) populations are increasing across the temperate zone, threatening forest biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, the fundamental question of what factors make a forest susceptible to deer damage remains unanswered, hampering efforts to mitigate against damage. Previous research has assumed that deer density consistently increases forest damage. However, the effect of deer density is likely to be contingent on a range of other drivers, such as climate and landscape structure. Mitigation measures are expensive, so a sound understanding of these contingencies is required to inform the targeting of appropriate management to forests most at risk of damage.

Using records of forest damage from Britain's National Forest Inventory, which comprises over 15,000 plots spanning environmental gradients, we applied a multiscale approach to identify the drivers of forest susceptibility to damage by deer.

Damage likelihood was dependent on drivers operating at multiple spatial scales and their interactions. Broadleaved stands with low tree densities and old trees were consistently found to be at high risk across Britain. The statistical influence of surrounding forest cover within 500 m of a site was modified by regional deer density and climate, in addition to landscape‐level perennial cover. The effect of deer density on damage was therefore not straightforward, but context dependent.

Synthesis and applications. We predict the likely outcome of afforestation initiatives on the likelihood that a forest site will be damaged by deer, with important implications for management and landscape planning in Britain. The complex interactive effects uncovered are difficult to interpret. We therefore provide an interactive Deer Damage Tool (R Shiny application; https://spake.shinyapps.io/DEERDAMAGETOOL/) for practitioners to visualize how afforestation is likely to influence the probability of deer damage in different forests and regions across Britain.
The importance of naturally attenuated SARS‐CoV‐2in the fight against COVID‐19
Authors: Armengaud Jean , Delaunay‐Moisan Agnès , Thuret Jean‐Yves , van Anken Eelco , Acosta‐Alvear Diego , Aragón Tomás , Arias Carolina , Blondel Marc , Braakman Ineke , Collet Jean‐François , Courcol René , Danchin Antoine , Deleuze Jean‐François , Lavigne Jean‐Philippe , Lucas Sophie , Michiels Thomas , Moore Edward R. B. , Nixon‐Abell Jonathon , Rossello‐Mora Ramon , Shi Zheng‐Li , Siccardi Antonio G. , Sitia Roberto , Tillett Daniel , Timmis Kenneth N. , Toledano Michel B. , van der Sluijs Peter , Vicenzi Elisa
Published: April 2020

The current SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic is wreaking havoc throughout the world and has rapidly become a global health emergency. A central question concerning COVID‐19 is why some individuals become sick and others not. Many have pointed already at variation in risk factors between individuals. However, the variable outcome of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections may, at least in part, be due also to differences between the viral subspecies with which individuals are infected. A more pertinent question is how we are to overcome the current pandemic. A vaccine against SARS‐CoV‐2 would offer significant relief, although vaccine developers have warned that design, testing and production of vaccines may take a year if not longer. Vaccines are based on a handful of different designs (i), but the earliest vaccines were based on the live, attenuated virus. As has been the case for other viruses during earlier pandemics, SARS‐CoV‐2 will mutate and may naturally attenuate over time (ii). What makes the current pandemic unique is that, thanks to state‐of‐the‐art nucleic acid sequencing technologies, we can follow in detail how SARS‐CoV‐2 evolves while it spreads. We argue that knowledge of naturally emerging attenuated SARS‐CoV‐2 variants across the globe should be of key interest in our fight against the pandemic.
Balancing Rigour and Relevance: The Case for Methodological Pragmatism in Conducting Large‐Scale, Multi‐country and Comparative Management Studies
Authors: Parry Emma , Farndale Elaine , Brewster Chris , Morley Michael J.
Published: April 2020

Collecting large‐scale comparative management data from multiple countries poses challenges in demonstrating methodological rigour, including the need for representativeness. We examine the rigour of sample representativeness, the counterbalancing effect of sample relevance, and explore sampling options, equivalence across countries, data collection procedures and response rates. We identify the challenges posed by cross‐national survey data collection, and suggest that the ideal research designs presented in much of the literature might not be practical or desirable in large‐scale, multi‐time‐point, cross‐national comparative management studies because of the need to ensure relevance across such contexts. Using the example of Cranet – a large‐scale, multi‐time‐point, cross‐national survey of human resource management – we offer suggested solutions for balancing both rigour and relevance in research of this nature.
High‐protein rice flour in the development of gluten‐free muffins
Authors: Paz Gabriella M. , King Joan M. , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon , Tyus Chelsea M. O. , Aleman Ricardo J. S.
Published: April 2020

Gluten‐free (GF) products are on the rise due to their perceived healthiness. Hypoallergenic rice flour is typically used in GF products. New rice varieties with greater protein were recently developed. Physicochemical and sensory properties of white and brown high‐protein rice flours (HPRFs) and muffins were compared to commercial rice flours. Sensory color of white high‐protein rice muffin was favored. Other attributes were not statistically different between samples. HPRF muffins had greater frequencies of “just about right” levels for muffin crumbliness, moistness, and softness than the commercial control. Purchase intent was greater for both HPRF muffins than commercial brown rice muffins. Purchase intent increased further by 9% to 12%, after information that the products were gluten free and made with naturally higher protein rice flour was displayed. This information could be used to market GF food products if increased protein ingredient claims are included.

Practical Application

This study shows that greater protein content rice flour can be used to make gluten‐free (GF) muffins that are acceptable to consumers. Analysis and application of higher protein rice flours could contribute to a large‐scale use in GF baked goods that may aim to naturally increase nutritional value. This research also shows that purchase intent increases when the greater protein content and gluten free is stated. This information can be used for GF product development and marketing of these products.
Thermophilic whole‐cell degradation of polyethylene terephthalate using engineered Clostridium thermocellum
Authors: Yan Fei , Wei Ren , Cui Qiu , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Liu Ya‐Jun
Published: April 2020

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a mass‐produced synthetic polyester contributing remarkably to the accumulation of solid plastics waste and plastics pollution in the natural environments. Recently, bioremediation of plastics waste using engineered enzymes has emerged as an eco‐friendly alternative approach for the future plastic circular economy. Here we genetically engineered a thermophilic anaerobic bacterium, Clostridium thermocellum, to enable the secretory expression of a thermophilic cutinase (LCC), which was originally isolated from a plant compost metagenome and can degrade PET at up to 70°C. This engineered whole‐cell biocatalyst allowed a simultaneous high‐level expression of LCC and conspicuous degradation of commercial PET films at 60°C. After 14 days incubation of a batch culture, more than 60% of the initial mass of a PET film (approximately 50 mg) was converted into soluble monomer feedstocks, indicating a markedly higher degradation performance than previously reported whole‐cell‐based PET biodegradation systems using mesophilic bacteria or microalgae. Our findings provide clear evidence that, compared to mesophilic species, thermophilic microbes are a more promising synthetic microbial chassis for developing future biodegradation processes of PET waste.
Reasonable Use?: The Challenges of Transboundary Groundwater Regulation in the Eastern United States
Authors: Caccese Robert T. , Fowler Lara B.
Published: April 2020

Regulating groundwater in the Eastern United States (U.S.), particularly transboundary aquifers between states, is a challenge given the patchwork quilt of common law, statutory frameworks, and agency rules. Such regulation is made more challenging by the need for better quantification of pumping and use. These dynamics are exemplified through several case studies, including the first ever U.S. Supreme Court case related to groundwater withdrawals (set in the Eastern U.S.). As dynamics such as expanded irrigation, population increases, and ecological considerations influence groundwater use across the Eastern U.S., water use will continue to be an important driver for economic activity and interaction within and between states. To effectively regulate transboundary aquifers, governance solutions must incorporate current science into decision making and be implemented at local, state, regional, and federal scales.
Brucine N‐Oxide Reduces Ethanol Intake and Preference in Alcohol‐Preferring Male Fawn‐Hooded Rats
Authors: Wei Shoupeng , Li Yu‐ling , Gong Qi , Liang Hui , Liu Qing , Bernardi Rick E. , Zhang Han‐Ting , Chen Feng , Lawrence Andrew J. , Liang Jian‐hui
Published: April 2020

Background

Alcohol use disorder places a heavy burden on global public health systems and thus is in urgent need of improved pharmacotherapies. Previously, our group has demonstrated that 30 mg/kg of the indole alkaloid brucine significantly attenuates alcohol‐drinking behavior; however, the high toxicity, poor water solubility, short half‐life, and limited therapeutic window of brucine restrain its clinical application as an antialcoholism medication. We subsequently hypothesized that the oxide of brucine (brucine N‐oxide) would produce a similar behavioral effect without the risk profile associated with brucine.

Methods

Male Fawn‐Hooded rats with high innate alcohol preference underwent 2‐bottle choice procedures (Experiments 1 to 3). Experiment 1 examined the effects of 7 daily BNO injections of 0, 30, 50, or 70 mg/kg (s.c.) on voluntary alcohol consumption (n = 9/group). Experiment 2 evaluated the impact of a single dose of 0 or 70 mg/kg BNO on the increased alcohol intake induced by a 4‐day alcohol deprivation (n = 8/group). Experiment 3 tested the effect of 7 daily BNO injections of 0 or 70 mg/kg (s.c.) on sucrose preference (n = 6/group). Experiment 4 measured the median lethal dose (LD50) values of BNO and brucine to compare their acute toxicity in rats. Experiment 5 tested whether BNO (0, 30, 50, and 70 mg/kg, s.c.) affected locomotor activity using an open‐field paradigm (n = 8/group). Finally, Experiment 6 evaluated the possible conditioned rewarding effects of 0, 30, 50, and 70 mg/kg BNO using the conditioned place preference paradigm (n = 6/group).

Results

BNO administration dose‐dependently attenuated alcohol consumption without affecting food intake, total fluid consumption, or the natural preference for a sucrose solution, with 70 mg/kg BNO reducing consumption by 22.8%. A single dose of 70 mg/kg BNO significantly inhibited the alcohol deprivation effect. The LD50 values of BNO and brucine in rats were determined to be 1,103.5 ± 177.0 mg/kg and 264.6 ± 17.7 mg/kg, respectively. Finally, BNO administration did not affect spontaneous locomotor activity or induce a place preference.

Conclusions

BNO may help to control excessive alcohol use and should be considered a treatment strategy for future study and development.
The Millennium Droughts and Australian Agricultural Productivity Performance: A Nonparametric Analysis
Authors: Chambers Robert G. , Pieralli Simone , Sheng Yu
Published: April 2020

With the turn of the century, Australian agricultural productivity growth slowed dramatically. We investigate the connection between this slowdown and climatic factors by comparing regional‐level growth patterns before and after the advent of the Australian Millennium Droughts. The analysis incorporates climatic variates directly into the productivity accounting framework to reflect the stochastic nature of agricultural production, and measured productivity growth is decomposed into four components: technological change, weather‐related change, input‐scale adjustment, and diffusion (adaptation). Nonparametric productivity measurement and statistical techniques are used to quantify and examine the patterns of the observed productivity slowdown. The analysis suggests that the primary determinant of the slowdown is not a slowdown in technological innovation but climatic‐related changes in the pattern and rate of diffusion of technological advances.
Neuraxial anaesthesia and peripheral nerve blocks during the COVID‐19 pandemic: a literature review and practice recommendations
Authors: Uppal V. , Sondekoppam R. V. , Landau R. , El‐Boghdadly K. , Narouze S. , Kalagara H. K. P.
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has had a significant impact on global healthcare services. In an attempt to limit the spread of infection and to preserve healthcare resources, one commonly used strategy has been to postpone elective surgery, whilst maintaining the provision of anaesthetic care for urgent and emergency surgery. General anaesthesia with airway intervention leads to aerosol generation, which increases the risk of COVID‐19 contamination in operating rooms and significantly exposes the healthcare teams to COVID‐19 infection during both tracheal intubation and extubation. Therefore, the provision of regional anaesthesia may be key during this pandemic, as it may reduce the need for general anaesthesia and the associated risk from aerosol‐generating procedures. However, guidelines on the safe performance of regional anaesthesia in light of the COVID‐19 pandemic are limited. The goal of this review is to provide up‐to‐date, evidence‐based recommendations or expert opinion when evidence is limited, for performing regional anaesthesia procedures in patients with suspected or confirmed COVID‐19 infection. These recommendations focus on seven specific domains including: planning of resources and staffing; modifying the clinical environment; preparing equipment, supplies and drugs; selecting appropriate personal protective equipment; providing adequate oxygen therapy; assessing for and safely performing regional anaesthesia procedures; and monitoring during the conduct of anaesthesia and post‐anaesthetic care. Implicit in these recommendations is preserving patient safety whilst protecting healthcare providers from possible exposure.
Randomised clinical trial: faecal microbiota transplantation versus autologous placebo administered via colonoscopy in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Lahtinen Perttu , Jalanka Jonna , Hartikainen Anna , Mattila Eero , Hillilä Markku , Punkkinen Jari , Koskenpato Jari , Anttila Veli‐Jukka , Tillonen Jyrki , Satokari Reetta , Arkkila Perttu
Published: April 2020

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has been associated with microbial dysbiosis.

Aim

To investigate the efficacy of faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in the treatment of IBS.

Methods

Forty‐nine IBS patients were randomised to receive autologous or allogenic FMT via colonoscopy. The primary endpoint was a sustained, minimum of 50‐point, reduction in the IBS Symptom Severity Score. The secondary outcomes were levels of anxiety and depression, changes in quality of life, gut microbiota and faecal water content as assessed with validated questionnaires, intestinal microbiota composition and stool dry weight.

Results

The primary endpoint was not achieved in either group. However, there was a transient reduction in the mean IBS Symptom Severity Score in the FMT group at 12 weeks after treatment as compared to baseline (P = 0.01). The groups did not differ in the number of patients achieving clinical response at 12 weeks. In the FMT‐treated patients, microbial composition had changed to resemble that of the donor and the stool water content decreased significantly compared to baseline. The depression score decreased in patients with a reduction in IBS symptoms after FMT, but not in those placebo‐treated patients who experienced a reduction in IBS symptoms.

Conclusions

FMT provided only a transient relief of symptoms, although it induced a sustained alteration in the microbiota of IBS patients. Therefore, FMT delivered by a single infusion via colonoscopy cannot be recommended as a treatment for IBS in clinical practice.

ClinicalTrials.Org, Trial registration number: NCT03561519.
Randomised clinical trial: the effectiveness of Gaviscon Advance vs non‐alginate antacid in suppression of acid pocket and post‐prandial reflux in obese individuals after late‐night supper
Authors: Deraman Mohd Adli , Abdul Hafidz Muhammad Ilham , Lawenko Rona Marie , Ma Zheng Feei , Wong Mung Seong , Coyle Cathal , Lee Yeong Yeh
Published: April 2020

Background

Late‐night supper increases the risk of postprandial reflux from the acid pocket especially in obesity. An alginate‐based, raft‐forming medication may be useful for obese patients with GERD.

Aims

To compare the efficacy of Gaviscon Advance (Reckitt Benckiser, UK) and a non‐alginate antacid in post‐supper suppression of the acid pocket and post‐prandial reflux among obese participants.

Methods

Participants underwent 48 h wireless and probe‐based pH‐metry recording of the acid pocket and lower oesophagus, respectively, and were randomised to single post‐supper (10 pm) dose of either Gaviscon Advance or a non‐alginate antacid on the second night. Primary outcomes were suppression of median pH of acid pocket and lower oesophagus, measured every 10‐minutes post‐supper for 1 h. Secondary outcomes were suppression of % time pH < 4 at lower oesophagus and improvement in frequency and visual analogue score (VAS) of regurgitation.

Results

Of the 81 screened participants, 55 were excluded and 26 (mean age 33.5 years, males 77.8% and BMI 32.8 kg/m2) were randomised to Gaviscon Advance (n = 13) or antacid (n = 13). Median pH of the acid pocket but not the lower oesophagus was suppressed with Gaviscon Advance vs antacid (all P < 0.04) Gaviscon Advance but not antacid significantly reduced in % time pH < 4, symptom frequency and VAS on day 2 vs day 1 (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Among obese individuals, Gaviscon Advance was superior to a non‐alginate antacid in post‐supper suppression of the acid pocket. (Clinical trial registration unique identifier: NCT03516188).
Immersive virtual field trips and elementary students’ perceptions
Authors: Han Insook
Published: April 2020

In response to the increased attention and interest related to the application of virtual reality with head‐mounted displays in education, this study examined the elementary students’ perceptions of using immersive virtual field trips (VFTs) in the classroom. Reflection papers from 25 students were analyzed and triangulated with field notes from class observations and teacher interviews. The content analysis revealed that VFTs were perceived to be efficient with regard to time and cost, to expand learning opportunities, but lacked physical interaction. Elementary students also suggested immersive VFTs are engaging, real, and provide an increased perception of virtual presence. However, they also expressed concerns about health and safety, psychological side effects, technical malfunctions, and low social interaction.
Splenectomy in childhood for non‐malignant haematologic disorders – long‐term follow‐up shows minimal adverse effects
Authors: Yacobovich Joanne , Barzilai‐Birenboim Shlomit , Steinberg‐Shemer Orna , Stark Pinhas , Pazgal Idit , Tamary Hannah
Published: April 2020

Splenectomy is considered therapeutic in various non‐malignant haematologic diseases. Adverse events ‒ specifically infections and thromboembolism ‒ are not extensively documented in the paediatric population, maintaining the concern over risks‐versus‐benefits of the procedure. We studied a cohort of paediatric haematology patients undergoing splenectomy between 1977 and 2015 to determine short‐ and long‐term complications. We summarised all the patients of the haematology clinic in our major Israeli tertiary centre undergoing splenectomy for therapeutic reasons, capturing infectious and thromboembolic events. The data of 103 patients, comprising 1657 follow‐up years, were analysed. The cohort included 33 patients with transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia, seven with non‐transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia, four with sickle‐thalassaemia, 41 with hereditary spherocytosis, and 18 with immune thrombocytopenia. Standard presplenectomy vaccinations were noted in most. No typical cases of overwhelming postsplenectomy infection (OPSI) were identified, nor were typical OPSI bacteria isolated. Thalassaemics with central lines were most prone to infection and thrombosis. Beyond this subgroup, thrombotic events were anecdotal. This is the largest study to date to comprehensively analyse infectious and thrombotic complications of childhood splenectomy for the treatment of haematologic diseases. The use of splenectomy appears to be a relatively safe therapeutic option in paediatric patients with proper preoperative vaccination and follow‐up care; use of central venous lines or catheters increase the risk in thalassaemic patients and should be avoided if possible.
Can we publish inclusive research inclusively? Researchers with intellectual disabilities interview authors of inclusive studies
Authors: Riches Tanya N. , O'Brien Patricia M. ,   The CDS Inclusive Research Network
Published: April 2020

Accessible summary

We are a group of 17 inclusive researchers. Some have a disability, some work in the university, and some are support workers.

In this paper, we interviewed 11 people who wrote inclusive research to find out what they thought.

We asked how do you write inclusive research?

Then, we asked two more questions: how were people with intellectual disabilities included in writing inclusive research? And, what got in the way of people with intellectual disabilities being included in writing inclusive research?

We found that inclusive research is a process of learning together: listening and including people's experience of disability.

The main finding was that writing and publishing inclusively in peer‐reviewed literature was hard.

Few researchers knew how to write or publish with people with intellectual disabilities.

It will need more research to figure out how best to include people with intellectual disabilities in writing up studies.

Background

This study aimed to explore how researchers with intellectual disabilities were involved in writing up and publishing inclusive research, particularly in peer‐reviewed journals. It was conducted over a year by members of the Centre for Disability Studies Inclusive Research Network representing 17 co‐researchers (with intellectual disabilities, university and support agency staff) doing research together.

Materials and Methods

The research focused on facilitators/barriers to inclusive research. The main research question was as follows: “how do you write inclusive research?” As in, what did authors who had written inclusive research articles find helped people with intellectual disabilities get involved in the publication process? Also, what, if anything, got in the way of people with intellectual disabilities being involved? The group interviewed 11 university scholars with varied experience publishing collaboratively with people with intellectual disabilities (one self‐identifying as disabled). Content analysis identified common themes.

Results

For the participants, inclusive research meant listening to and supporting people with the lived experience of disability. Researchers encountered numerous challenges in publishing, linked to what they perceived as “complex” and “unfair” universities, systems which governed funding. Instead of peer‐reviewed articles, inclusive teams created many other outputs and focused on outcomes.

Conclusions

The main finding was that writing and publishing inclusive peer‐reviewed literature was prohibitive. It would appear that those working in inclusive research are only at the start of devising ways to include their co‐researchers with intellectual disabilities; it will need more research to articulate common strategies to include teams of people with intellectual disabilities in joint publications.
Cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside improves non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease by promoting PINK1‐mediated mitophagy in mice
Authors: Li Xinwei , Shi Zhen , Zhu Yiwei , Shen Taiyu , Wang Heyuan , Shui Guanghou , Loor Juan J. , Fang Zhiyuan , Chen Meng , Wang Xinghui , Peng Zhicheng , Song Yuxiang , Wang Zhe , Du Xiliang , Liu Guowen
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose

Identifying safe and effective compounds that target to mitophagy to eliminate impaired mitochondria may be an attractive therapeutic strategy for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. Here, we investigated the effects of cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G) on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the underlying mechanism.

Experimental Approach

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease was induced by a high‐fat diet for 16 weeks. C3G was administered during the last 4 weeks. In vivo, recombinant adenoviruses and AAV8 were used for overexpression and knockdown of PTEN‐induced kinase 1 (PINK1), respectively. AML‐12 and HepG2 cells were used for the mechanism study.

Key Results

C3G administration suppressed hepatic oxidative stress, NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation and steatosis and improved systemic glucose metabolism in mice with NAFLD. These effects of C3G were also observed in palmitic acid‐treated AML‐12 cells and hepatocytes from NAFLD patients. Mechanistic investigations revealed that C3G increased PINK1/Parkin expression and mitochondrial localization and promoted PINK1‐mediated mitophagy to clear damaged mitochondria. Knockdown of hepatic PINK1 abolished the mitophagy‐inducing effect of C3G, which blunted the beneficial effects of C3G on oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, hepatic steatosis and glucose metabolism.

Conclusion and Implications

These results demonstrate that PINK1‐mediated mitophagy plays an essential role in the ability of C3G to alleviate NAFLD and suggest that C3G may be a potential drug candidate for NAFLD treatment.
Efficacy and safety of nabiximols cannabinoid medicine for paediatric spasticity in cerebral palsy or traumatic brain injury: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fairhurst Charlie , Kumar Ram , Checketts Daniel , Tayo Bola , Turner Susie
Published: April 2020

Aim

To assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of oromucosal nabiximols cannabinoid medicine as adjunct therapy for children with spasticity due to cerebral palsy/traumatic central nervous system injury with inadequate response to existing treatment.

Method

Overall, 72 patients (mean [SD] age 12y 4mo [3y 1mo], range 8‒18y) were randomized at a ratio of 2:1 to receive nabiximols (n=47; 29 males, 18 females) or placebo (n=25; 15 males, 10 females) for 12 weeks (12 sprays/day max. based on clinical response/tolerability). The primary outcome was change from baseline in level of spasticity on a 0 to 10 Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), assessed by the primary caregiver at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included additional measures for spasticity, sleep quality, pain, health‐related quality of life, comfort, depression, and safety.

Results

There was no significant difference in the spasticity 0 to 10 NRS between nabiximols versus placebo groups after 12 weeks. No statistically significant differences were observed for any secondary endpoint. Adverse events were predominantly mild or moderate in severity; however, three cases of hallucinations were reported.

Interpretation

Nabiximols was generally well tolerated; however, neuropsychiatric adverse events were observed. No significant reduction in spasticity with nabiximols treatment versus placebo was observed.

What this paper adds

Oromucosal nabiximols is generally well tolerated by paediatric patients.

However, three cases of hallucinations were observed, one of which involved auditory hallucinations and a suicide attempt.

Oromucosal nabiximols versus placebo did not reduce cerebral palsy/central nervous system injury‐related spasticity.
Cytoplasmic localization of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐related TDP‐43 proteins modulates stress granule formation
Authors: Besnard‐Guérin Corinne
Published: April 2020

TDP‐43 is an RNA/DNA‐binding protein associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Under pathological conditions, TDP‐43 exported from the nucleus accumulates in the cytoplasm, forming inclusion bodies. However, the molecular mechanisms that contribute to such aggregation are unclear. The pathogenic processes that lead to aggregation in ALS were investigated by analysing the effects of wildtype human TDP‐43 or with mutations in the nuclear localization sequence (NLS) or those associated with ALS in stress granule formation. TDP‐43 (WT, ∆NLS or G348C), with or without a GFP‐tag, was expressed in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma or HeLa cells and stress granules induced by oxidative stress or heat shock. Stress granule formation was altered in cells strongly expressing GFP‐TDP‐∆NLS, or untagged TDP‐43‐∆NLS in the cytoplasm but not the negative controls, GFP or GFP‐UtrCH. In contrast, there was no reduction in stress granule formation by cells that expressed untagged TDP‐43 (WT or G348C) in the nucleus upon stress induction. GFP labelling of TDP‐43 (WT or G348C) promotes high cytoplasmic expression and nuclear aggregation. Stress granule formation was impaired in cells expressing GFP‐TDP‐43 (WT or G348C) in the cytoplasm. Overall, these results suggest that stress granule formation may be inhibited by high levels of TDP‐43 protein in the cytoplasm. As stress granules serve a protective function, their deregulation may promote neurodegeneration due to an aberrant stress response.
Solving predictive control problem of fast‐varying multivariable systems by incorporating unknown active dynamics generated by real‐time adaptive learning machine
Authors: Yaqubi Sadeq , Homaeinezhad Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2020

Not only adaptive predictive control of switched systems is a computationally intensive procedure, it also involves various challenges in addressing the problems of robust stabilization and precise tracking. This study proposes new strategies to deal with the aforementioned issues (namely safe and precise control alongside with reduction of computational burden). The first contribution of this work is reduction of conservatism for described class of systems. Control of switched systems with undetectable switching signals is often conducted in worst case switching configuration to ensure robustness, which potentially results in conservative design. The issue of conservativeness is intensified in multi input‐multi output (MIMO) dynamical systems due to increased dimensions. However, attaining a robust control scheme for all switching configurations while ensuring precise response is inherently paradoxical. To overcome this issue, this study proposes a new dual‐mode algorithm where control modes corresponding to safety and precision are activated at appropriate stages of system response. This is conducted based on incorporation of an adaptive fuzzy‐wavelet neural network identification scheme in predictive control of MIMO switched systems. However, as convergence of the adaptive algorithm to actual system is attained after a finite period of time, a safe‐mode control algorithm is proposed to maintain quality of transient response in convergence period. In other words, the proposed algorithm operates in safe and precise control modes to ensure robust stability in the convergence period and non‐conservative design in steady‐state. Second major contribution of the work is reduction of calculation burden based on incorporation of a suboptimal control algorithm. To this end, we propose a predictive control scheme based on a suboptimal gradient‐descent based controller, calculating feasible stabilizing inputs instead of optimal inputs. Effects of dynamical variations are incorporated in the model predictive control framework for increased compatibility with high‐speed switching dynamics. Then, based on incorporation of dual‐mode algorithm, precise steady‐state performance is attained while preventing notable perturbations in dynamical discontinuities at switching.