bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modelling on crack propagation behaviours at concrete matrix‐aggregate interface
Authors: Wu Baijian , Tang Keke 
Published: May 2019

AbstractA numerical model is proposed to simulate crack propagation at concrete matrix‐aggregate interface. One single aggregate surrounded by concrete matrix is taken to demonstrate the behaviours of crack penetration into concrete matrix and crack growth along the interface. Influences of side‐edge constraint, aggregate direction, and interface fracture energy on the crack propagation behaviours are respectively investigated. The results show that, tensile constraint on the side edge, a smaller angle between tensile axis and aggregate, and higher fracture energy lead to a higher rupture strength of the interface. Once the interface crack starts to grow, it propagates to the two ends of aggregate major axis drastically and further penetrates into the matrix. Nevertheless, these factors have no appreciable influence on crack propagation path. By mapping interface crack into major axis, ordinary crack is generated. Using the above simplification, modelling of multiple crack propagation in concrete is efficiently achieved.
Return predictability: The dual signaling hypothesis of stock splits
Authors: Elnahas Ahmed , Gao Lei , Ismail Ghada 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThis paper aims to differentiate between optimistic splits and overoptimistic/opportunistic splits. Although markets do not distinguish between these two groups at the split announcement time, optimistic (overoptimistic/opportunistic) splits precede positive (negative) long‐term buy‐and‐hold abnormal returns. Using the calendar month portfolio approach, we show that the zero‐investment, ex ante identifiable, and fully implementable trading strategy proposed in this paper can generate economically and statistically significant positive abnormal returns. Our findings indicate that pre‐split earnings management and how it relates to managers’ incentives, is an omitted variable in the studies of post‐split long‐term abnormal returns.
Translation, validation and reliability of the functional capacity questionnaire Haemophilia Activities List for haemophilia patients in Brazil
Authors: Ramos Ana A. T. , Wolff Álvaro L. P. , Lorenzato Claudia S. , Pacheco Luciano R. L. , Zonta Marise B. , Valderramas Silvia 
Published: May 2019

AbstractIntroductionTo date, none of the available assessment instruments to evaluate functional abilities for individuals with haemophilia has been translated and validated in Brazil.AimTo translate, and test the construct validity, internal consistency and the reliability of the Haemophilia Activities List (HAL) for the Brazilian population with severe and moderate haemophilia (type A or B) and to investigate differences in the self‐perception of functional abilities in patients adults with haemophilia classified according to the presence of joint bleeding and the performance of orthopaedic surgeries.MethodsThe translation and transcultural adaptation following the steps: (a) translation; (b) synthesis (consensual version); (c) back‐translation; (d) review by the committee of experts; (e) pretest in the target population; and (f) final version of the instrument. Correlations between HAL scores and the scores of the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were determined for construct validation. Reliability was tested using the test and retest method, and internal consistency was calculated by Cronbach's α.ResultsThe HAL‐BR was applied to 52 individuals with haemophilia (34.51 ± 12.87 years). The process of translation and cross‐cultural adaptation produced similar versions between the translations A moderate correlation was observed between HAL and the HAQ (r = −0.55) and WOMAC scores (r = −0.58). The reliability was ICC = 0.972, CI (0.917‐0.997) ICC = 0.876, CI (0.631‐0.978) for inter‐ and intra‐examiners. No difference was found in the total HAL score between the groups with and without bleeding. The group subjected to surgery compared to the group of not subjected to surgery presented in the HAL domains worse function in ‘lying down/sitting/kneeling/standing’, ‘self‐care’ and ‘complex lower extremities activities’ as well as in total HAL score.ConclusionThe Brazilian version of the HAL was proven to be a valid and reliable evaluation tool for adults with haemophilia in Brazil.
How might patient involvement in healthcare quality improvement efforts work—A realist literature review
Authors: Bergerum Carolina , Thor Johan , Josefsson Karin , Wolmesjö Maria 
Published: May 2019

AbstractIntroductionThis realist literature review, regarding active patient involvement in healthcare quality improvement (QI), seeks to identify possible mechanisms that contribute to success or failure. Furthermore, the paper outlines key considerations for organizing and supporting patient involvement in healthcare QI efforts.MethodsTwo literature searches were performed. Altogether, 1204 articles from a healthcare context were screened, focusing on improvement efforts that involve patients, healthcare professionals and/or managers and leaders. Among these, 107 articles fulfilled the chosen study selection criteria and were further analysed. Eighteen articles underwent a full realist review. In the realist synthesis, context‐mechanism‐outcome configurations were articulated as middle‐range theories and organized thematically to generate a program theory on how active patient involvement in QI efforts might work.ResultsThe articles exhibited a diversity of patient involvement approaches at different levels of healthcare organizations. To be successful, organizations’ support of QI efforts that actively involved patients tailored the QI efforts to their context to achieve the desired outcomes, and involved the relevant microsystem members. Furthermore, it promoted interaction and partnership within the microsystem, and supported the behavioural change that follows.ConclusionThis realist synthesis generates a program theory for active patient involvement in QI efforts; active patient involvement can be a tool (resource), if tailored for interaction and partnership (reasoning), that leads to behaviour change (outcome) within healthcare QI efforts. The theory explains essential resource and reasoning mechanisms, and outcomes that together form guidance for healthcare organizations when managing active patient involvement in QI efforts.
Taxonomy of cryptic species in the Cyornis rubeculoides complex in the Indian subcontinent
Authors: Singh Ashutosh , Gupta Sandeep K. , Alström Per , Mohan Dhananjai , Hooper Daniel M. , Kumar Ramani S. , Bhatt Dinesh , Singh Pratap , Price Trevor D. 
Published: May 2019

Taxa classified as subspecies may in fact be cryptic species. We assessed the taxonomic status of the Blue‐throated Flycatcher Cyornis rubeculoides complex in India, which consists of several forms with similar plumages and song. We used mitochondrial and nuclear DNA, plumage traits, and detailed song analysis to ascertain the taxonomic status of the different forms. The molecular data identified three primary clades: (1) in the west Himalayan foothills, (2) at higher elevations in the northeast hill states of Meghalaya, Nagaland and Mizoram, and (3) at lower elevations in the northeastern hills of Meghalaya and the east Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh. The western clade represents nominate C. rubeculoides rubeculoides. The high‐elevation eastern clade was considered to be C. rubeculoides rogersi, because it included a sample from this subspecies from near the type locality in southwest Myanmar. These two sister clades had an estimated divergence time of 1.5 million years (my). The low‐elevation east clade has previously been assigned to C. rubeculoides, but we showed it is closely related to the Hainan Blue Flycatcher Cyornis hainanus, formerly thought to breed only further east, with an estimated divergence time of only ~0.8 my. This clade may represent a subspecies of C. hainanus or, given reports of widespread sympatry with C. hainanus in Thailand, a distinct species, Cyornis dialilaemus. However, more research is advocated, including molecular data, from the area of overlap. Songs were remarkably similar across all taxa. In playback experiments, C. r. rubeculoides in the west responded to all taxa. This is in agreement with recent work demonstrating that song differences and responses to songs are not always a good indicator of the progress of reproductive isolation.
Effect of annealing on UV‐visible absorption and photoluminescence behavior of liquid phase deposited TiO2 nanorods
Authors: Sadeghzadeh‐Attar Abbas , Bafandeh Mohammad Reza 
Published: May 2019

AbstractIn this work, anatase and rutile TiO2 nanorods were fabricated using one‐step liquid phase deposition process, followed by heat treatment in the range 300‐800°C. The direct and indirect band gap of the TiO2 nanorods was estimated form optical absorption data which illustrated a red shift at higher temperatures owing to the different nature of excitons in anatase and rutile phases. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed the presence of two main emission bands consisting of four peaks. It was found that two high‐energy peaks located at 2.95‐3.30 eV could be generated from exciton transitions from the conduction band to the valence band of TiO2 nanorods, while two low‐energy peaks located at 2.43‐2.64 eV may arise from surface state transitions. The PL intensity firstly increased with temperature and at 500°C reached a maximum value, then decreased through increasing temperature up to 800°C. These variations in the intensity of PL emission could be explained in terms of changes in phase structure, crystallinity, and amount of the oxygen vacancies, which are all dependent to the annealing temperature based on X‐ray diffractometer and X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer studies. These results indicated that annealing temperature allows to manipulate the properties of TiO2 nanorods for opto‐electronic applications.
Consumption of low‐calorie sweetened beverages is associated with higher total energy and sugar intake among children, NHANES 2011–2016
Authors: Sylvetsky Allison C. , Figueroa Janet , Zimmerman Talia , Swithers Susan E. , Welsh Jean A. 
Published: May 2019

SummaryObjectiveTo examine associations between consumption of low‐calorie sweetened beverages (LCSBs), sugar, and total energy intake in children in the United States.MethodsWe used 24‐hour dietary recalls from 7026 children enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011 to 2016 to assess energy and macronutrient intake among LCSB (≥4 oz LCSB, <4 oz SB), SB (≥4 oz SB, <4 oz LCSB), and LCSB + SB consumers (≥4 oz each) compared with water consumers (≥4 oz water, <4 oz LCSB and SBs). Sample weights and complex survey procedures were used for all analyses.ResultsAdjusting for body mass index (BMI) percentile, LCSB, SB, and LCSB + SB consumption was associated with 196, 312, and 450 more total calories and 15, 39, and 46 more grams of added sugar, which amounts to 60, 156, 184 more calories from added sugar, compared with water consumers (P < .05 for all pairwise comparisons). No differences in energy intake were observed between LCSB and SB consumers. [Correction added on 28 May 2019, after first online publication: In the preceding sentence, quantities of added sugar reported are in grams. The corresponding calories have also been specified in this version.]ConclusionsThese findings challenge the utility of LCSB for weight management in children and adolescents.
A hybrid data mining heuristic to solve the point‐feature cartographic label placement problem
Authors: Guerine Marcos , Rosseti Isabel , Plastino Alexandre 
Published: May 2019

AbstractA clean map visualization requires the fewest possible overlaps and depends on how labels are attached to point features. In this paper, we address the cartographic label placement variant problem whose objective is to label a set of points maximizing the number of conflict‐free points. Thus, we propose a hybrid data mining heuristic to solve the point‐feature cartographic label placement problem based on a clustering search (CS) heuristic, a state‐of‐the‐art method for this problem. Although several works have investigated the combination of data mining and multistart metaheuristics, this is the first time data mining has been used to improve CS and simulated annealing based heuristics. Computational experiments showed that the proposed hybrid heuristic was able to reach better cost solutions than the original strategy, with the same time effort. The proposed heuristic also could find almost all known optimal solutions and improved most of the best results for the set of large instances reported so far in the literature.
Use of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccines for behavioural and reproductive control in managed Asian elephantElephas maximusand African elephantLoxodonta africanapopulations
Authors: Lueders I. , Oerke A.‐K. , Knauf‐Witzens T. , Young D. , Bertschinger H. J. 
Published: May 2019

Because of their size and reproductive anatomy, surgical castration is not a practical option in adult elephants. However, similar to other species in human care, the effects of gonadectomy are desired in specific situations. This may be for contraceptive purposes, or for behavioural or veterinary management of elephants in human care or wild elephants managed in small reserves. Research into non‐surgical contraceptive measures for wild and domestic animals has resulted in an array of hormonal and immunological options to downregulate gonadal function. Driven by the production‐animal industry, commercial gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccines are readily and cheaply available. This immunocontraceptive is effective in both males and females as it inhibits gonadotrophic hormone release and, thus, downstream stimulation of testicles and ovaries. Here, available studies from the past 10 years on the GnRHvaccine application in male and female elephants are reviewed. Furthermore, we add our own experience gathered from the treatment of male African elephantsLoxodonta africanaand female Asian elephantsElephas maximusin human care. The GnRHvaccine offers a viable approach for various management purposes. It should be noted that the GnRHvaccine was not primarily designed as a reversible contraceptive. Therefore, its use must be well justified on an individual basis and the effects closely monitored.
Photochromism‐induced light scattering and photoswithing in Er doped (K,Na)NbO3 transparent ceramics
Authors: Sun Haiqin , Lv Yang , Zhu Yan , Lin Jinfeng , Wu Xiao , Zhang Qiwei , Hao Xihong 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThe (K0.5Na0.5)0.95Li0.05Nb0.95Bi0.05O3‐1mol% Er2O3 transparent ceramics were prepared by a pressureless sintering method. The fabricated transparent ceramics not only exhibit high optical transmittance (85.3%) due to dense microstructure (nanoscale size grains), but also show the photochromism‐induced light scattering and reversible upconversion (UC)‐switching properties by visible light irradiation. Upon 407 nm light irradiation, the optical transmittance intensity is significantly decreased, showing a strong light scattering (ΔAbs = 28.3%). The light scatting degree can be quantitatively reflected by Er3+ ion UC emission, and could be recovered to its initial optical transmittance based on photochromic reactions. Meanwhile, the transparent ceramic is found to maintain good energy storage properties with higher W (5.87 J/cm3) and Wrec (1.96 J/cm3) under a higher electric field of 260 kV/cm. These results suggest that Er3+ doped (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 transparent ceramics are promising for the modulation of light scattering and the design of photoelectric multifunction devices.
Can you be yourself in business? How reminders of business affect the perceived value of authenticity
Authors: Kokkoris Michail D. , Sedikides Constantine 
Published: May 2019

AbstractAuthenticity is generally beneficial to employees and organizations, but do business students believe that the business world affords it? On the one hand, business may be regarded as incompatible with authenticity, as it is arguably ruled largely by etiquette, norms, and conventions that leave little room to be one's true self (hindering role). On the other hand, business may be seen as promoting authenticity, as it is arguably based largely on creativity, initiative, and independence that provide opportunities to thrive by being one's true self (facilitating role). We proposed that business students would be more likely to endorse the facilitating role of authenticity. We hypothesized, in particular, that mere reminders of business (i.e., primes) would raise the general value of authenticity, but only among those who dispositionally value authenticity less (than more). Results of two experiments were consistent with the hypothesis. We discuss theoretical, managerial, and educational implications.
Genome‐wide association studies revealed candidate genes for tail fat deposition and body size in the Hulun Buir sheep
Authors: Zhang Tongyu , Gao Hongding , Sahana Goutam , Zan Yanjun , Fan Hongying , Liu Jiaxin , Shi Liangyu , Wang Hongwei , Du Lixin , Wang Lixian , Zhao Fuping 
Published: May 2019

AbstractFat‐tailed sheep have a unique characteristic of depositing fat in their tails. In the present study, we conducted genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) on traits related to tail fat deposition and body size in the Hulun Buir sheep. A total number of 300 individuals belonging to two fat‐tailed lines of the Hulun Buir sheep breed genotyped with the Ovine Infinium HD SNP BeadChip were included in the current study. Two mixed models, one for continuous and one for binary phenotypic traits, were employed to analyse ten traits, that is, body length (BL), body height (BH), chest girth (CG), tail length (TL), tail width (TW), tail circumference (TC), carcass weight (CW), tail fat weight (TF), ratio of CW to TF (RCT) and tail type (TT). We identified 7, 6, 7, 2, 10 and 1 SNPs significantly associated with traits TF, CW, RCT, TW, TT and CG, respectively. Their associated genomic regions harboured 42 positional candidate genes. Out of them, 13 candidate genes including SMURF2, FBF1, DTNBP1, SETD7 and RBM11 have been associated with fat metabolism in sheep. The RBM11 gene has already been identified in a previous study on signatures of selection in this specific sheep population. Two more genes, that is, SMARCA5 and GAB1 were associated with body size in sheep. The present study has identified candidate genes that might be implicated in tail fat deposition and body size in sheep.
The clip and the tip: Lessons learned from ablation of atrial fibrillation in patients postpercutaneous mitral valve repair
Authors: Rottner Laura , Lemes Christine , Dotz Inge , Wohlmuth Peter , Schmidt Tobias , Mathew Shibu , Heeger Christian‐H. , Reissmann Bruno , Fink Thomas , Rillig Andreas , Frerker Christian , Ouyang Feifan , Kuck Karl‐Heinz , Metzner Andreas , Maurer Tilman 
Published: May 2019

AbstractBackgroundAtrial fibrillation (AF) and higher grade mitral valve regurgitation are often associated. For both, there are interventional therapeutic options such as pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) using MitraClip.ObjectiveThis study investigated the feasibility, safety and clinical outcome of AF ablation in patients with prior PMVR.MethodsThis study included patients with symptomatic AF who underwent PVI after prior PMVR at a tertiary care center (14 consecutive patients, group I). A propensity‐score matched group of 42 patients (1:3 matching, group II) without prior valve repair acted as controls.ResultsAcute PVI was achieved in all patients. No difference was found regarding median procedure time (group I: 125.0 [Q1: 120.0; Q3: 176.3] vs group II: 135.0 [120.0; 177.5] minutes; P = 0.87) and median fluoroscopy duration (group I: 17.2 [12.9; 25.9] vs group II: 18.6 [12.3; 25.9] minutes; P = 0.95). In group I, one patient suffered a postprocedural transient ischemic attack. No further major complications occurred (P = 0.25). No periprocedural interference with the MitraClip was noted. The Kaplan‐Meier estimate 18‐month overall arrhythmia‐free survival after the index procedure including a 3‐month blanking period was 64.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 42.1‐99.8%) for the study group and 68.3% (95% CI, 54.6‐85.6%) for the control group P = 0.35). A higher percentage of left atrial tachycardias was observed in the study group (67% vs 12% of patients with any arrhythmia recurrence; P = 0.01).ConclusionCatheter ablation of AF in patients with prior PMVR is feasible and safe and results in satisfying clinical outcome.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals cell apoptotic signature modified by heparanase in melanoma cells
Authors: Song Tianyi , Spillmann Dorothe 
Published: May 2019

AbstractHeparanase has been implicated in many pathological conditions, especially inflammation and cancer, attributed to its degradation of heparan sulfate, a crucial component maintaining the integrity of the extracellular matrix. By silencing the heparanase gene (HPSE) in MDA‐MB‐435s melanoma cells, we investigated the impact of this protein on gene transcription. Transcriptome sequencing yielded a list of 279 differentially expressed genes, of which 140 were up‐regulated and 239 down‐regulated. The 140 up‐regulated genes were classified into a substantial set of gene ontology defined functions, for example, positive regulation of cell death, apoptotic process, response to cytokine, while 239 down‐regulated genes classify only into the two categories: nucleosome and nucleosome assembly. Our focus was drawn to an array of 28 pro‐apoptotic genes regulated by heparanase: real‐time PCR experiments further validated up‐regulation of EGR1, TXNIP, AXL, CYR61, LIMS2 and TNFRSF12A by at least 1.5‐fold, among which EGR1, CYR61, and TNFRSF12A were confirmed on protein level. We demonstrated significantly increased apoptotic cells by TUNEL staining upon HPSE silencing, mediated by activation of caspase 3/PARP1 pathway. The pro‐apoptotic gene expression and observation of apoptosis were extended to another melanoma cell line, MV3 cells, thus consolidating the anti‐apoptosis effect of heparanase in melanoma cells.
EU Rules Beyond its Borders: The Policy‐specific Effects of Transgovernmental Networks and EU Agencies in the European Neighbourhood
Authors: Shyrokykh Karina , Rimkutė Dovilė 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThe European Union (EU) is increasingly involved in its rule advancement outside its borders through a dense net of transgovernmental networks. However, we know little about the effects of these networks. This article assesses the impact of transgovernmental networks across various policy domains in the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) region. Building on a novel longitudinal dataset, we demonstrate that the effects of transgovernmental networks vary across policy sectors. Policies marked by a higher degree of mutual interdependence exhibit greater positive change as a result of denser networks. Meanwhile, the involvement of EU agencies stimulates more intense technical co‐operation and broadens the range of policy areas covered. In doing so, EU agencies serve as bridges for the establishment of strong links between the EU and its neighbours.