bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PROD2UCT: an outcome-oriented dissertation study model for construction engineering students
Authors: Holt Gary D. , Goulding Jack S. 
Published: February 2017

Purpose
This paper presents and describes an outcome-oriented dissertation study model called “PROD2UCT”, designed explicitly for students engaged in construction engineering and related subjects research.

Design/methodology/approach
The model is grounded in theory, underpinned by extant literature and reinforced with professional domain expertise.

Findings
PROD2UCT identifies seven key stages in outcome-oriented dissertation study: pick, recognise, organise, document and draft, undertake, consolidate and tell. These are described along with practical considerations for their effective implementation.

Research limitations/implications
The model’s primary influences stem from “best practice”, experiential knowledge, pedagogical ideals and academic views/values. Given this, it is acknowledged that “representation” and “inference” are typically governed by “subjectivity” (which naturally differs from person-to-person).

Originality/value
Originality is threefold: PROD2UCT encourages students to consider the “end” before the “beginning”; it serves as a road-map offering guidance at seven key chronological stages; finally, it is specifically designed to be outcome-oriented. The latter requires intended dissertation outcomes to align with evidence, research design decisions and implementation methods.
Computer aided weld seam tracking approach
Authors: Deepak B.B.V.L. , Bahubalendruni Raju M.V.A. , Rao Ch A. , Nalini Jalumuru 
Published: February 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to automate the welding operation that motion control, sensor integration and coordination with the welding power source. Therefore, there is a need for sophisticated technologies to control precisely the process in terms of positioning the welding torch, and controlling the welding parameters through the use of correct devices which are aided by appropriate control tools and techniques.

Design/methodology/approach
A new seam tracking methodology, named sewing technique, has been introduced for the welded joints available in computer-aided design (CAD) environment. This methodology gives the seam path by drawing a line through the adjacent centroids of curve fitted in the weld joint volume. Obtained geometric path and kinematic constraints are given as input to the modeled robot for performing welding operation followed by desired trajectory.

Findings
In this investigation, a novel and efficient weld seam technique has been developed to produce uniform welded joints. The key feature of this approach is that the initial and end positions of the weld seams can be obtained easily. Because of this, the robot can be controlled flexibly during welding operation.

Originality/value
This investigation deals with the development of an automated seam tracking methodology for the welded joints available in CAD environment. Validation of the developed methodology has been done through simulation results while performing welding operations for different weld profiles.
Depth from extreme points method for gravity gradient tensor data
Authors: Zhou Wenna , Liu Chengying 
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACTThe ‘depth from extreme points’ method is an important tool to estimate the depth of sources of gravity and magnetic data. In order to interpret gravity gradient tensor data conveniently, formulas for the tensor data form regarding depth from the extreme points method were calculated in this paper. Then, all of the gradient tensor components were directly used to interpret the causative source. Beyond the gzz component, also the gxx and gyy components can be used to obtain depth information. In addition, the total horizontal derivative of the depth from extreme points of the gradient tensor can be used to describe the edge information of geologic sources. In this paper, we investigated the consistency of the homogeneity degree calculated by using the different components, which leads to the calculated depth being confirmed. Therefore, a more integrated interpretation can be obtained by using the gradient tensor components. Different synthetic models were used with and without noise to test the new approach, showing stability, accuracy and speed. The proposed method proved to be a useful tool for gradient tensor data interpretation. Finally, the proposed method was applied to full tensor gradient data acquired over the Vinton Salt Dome, Louisiana, USA, and the results are in agreement with those obtained in previous research studies.
A population‐based study on epidemiology of intensive care unit treated traumatic brain injury in Iceland
Authors: Jonsdottir G. M. , Lund S. H. , Snorradottir B. , Karason S. , Olafsson I. H. , Reynisson K. , Mogensen B. , Sigvaldason K. 
Published: February 2017

BackgroundTraumatic brain injury is a worldwide health issue and a significant cause of preventable deaths and disabilities. We aimed to describe population‐based data on intensive care treated traumatic brain injury in Iceland over 15 years period.MethodsRetrospective review of all intensive care unit admissions due to traumatic brain injury at The National University Hospital of Iceland 1999–2013. Data were collected on demographics, mechanism of injury, alcohol consumption, glasgow come scale upon admission, Injury Severity Scoring, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score, length of stay, interventions and mortality (defined as glasgow outcome score one). All computerized tomography scans were reviewed for Marshall score classification.ResultsIntensive care unit admissions due to traumatic brain injury were 583. The incidence decreased significantly from 14/100.000/year to 12/100.000/year. Males were 72% and the mean age was 41 year. Majority of patients (42%) had severe traumatic brain injury. The most common mechanism of injury was a fall from low heights (36.3%). The mortality was 18.2%. Increasing age, injury severity score, Marshall score and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score are all independent risk factors for death. Glasgow coma scale was not an independent prognostic factor for outcome.ConclusionsIncidence decreased with a shift in injury mechanism from road traffic accidents to falls and an increased rate of traumatic brain injury in older patients following a fall from standing or low heights. Mortality was higher in older patients falling from low heights than in younger patients suffering multiple injuries in road traffic accidents. Age, injury severity score, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score and Marshall score are good prognostic factors for outcome. Traumatic brain injury continues to be a considerable problem and the increase in severe traumatic brain injury in the middle age and older age groups after a seemingly innocent accident needs a special attention.
Cannabidiol reduces ethanol consumption, motivation and relapse in mice
Authors: Viudez‐Martínez Adrián , García‐Gutiérrez María S. , Navarrón Carmen María , Morales‐Calero María Isabel , Navarrete Francisco , Torres‐Suárez Ana Isabel , Manzanares Jorge 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis study evaluated the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on ethanol reinforcement, motivation and relapse in C57BL/6 J mice. The effects of CBD (60 mg/kg, i.p.) on blood ethanol concentration, hypothermia and handling‐induced convulsions associated to acute ethanol administration were evaluated. The two‐bottle choice paradigm was performed to assess the effects of CBD (30, 60 and 120 mg/kg/day, i.p.) on ethanol intake and preference. In addition, an oral ethanol self‐administration experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of CBD [a single s.c. administration of a microparticle formulation providing CBD continuous controlled release (30 mg/kg/day)] on the reinforcement and motivation for ethanol. The effects of CBD (60 and 120 mg/kg/day, i.p.) on ethanol‐induced relapse were also evaluated. Gene expression analyses of tyrosine hydroxylase in ventral tegmental area and μ‐opioid (Oprm1), cannabinoid (CB1r and CB2r) and GPR55 receptors in nucleus accumbens (NAcc) were carried out by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.Cannabidiol reduced the ethanol‐induced hypothermia and handling‐induced convulsion but failed to modify blood ethanol concentration. CBD reduced ethanol consumption and preference in the two‐bottle choice, significantly decreased ethanol intake and the number of effective responses in the oral ethanol self‐administration, and reduced ethanol‐induced relapse. Furthermore, the administration of CBD significantly reduced relative gene expression of tyrosine hydroxylase in the ventral tegmental area, Oprm1, CB1r and GPR55 in the NAcc and significantly increased CB2r in the NAcc.Taken together, these results reveal that the administration of CBD reduced the reinforcing properties, motivation and relapse for ethanol. These findings strongly suggest that CBD may result useful for the treatment of alcohol use disorders.
Dimensions of personalisation in technology‐enhanced learning: A framework and implications for design
Authors: FitzGerald Elizabeth , Kucirkova Natalia , Jones Ann , Cross Simon , Ferguson Rebecca , Herodotou Christothea , Hillaire Garron , Scanlon Eileen 
Published: February 2017

AbstractPersonalisation of learning is a recurring trend in our society, referred to in government speeches, popular media, conference and research papers and technological innovations. This latter aspect—of using personalisation in technology‐enhanced learning (TEL)—has promised much but has not always lived up to the claims made. Personalisation is often perceived to be a positive phenomenon, but it is often difficult to know how to implement it effectively within educational technology.In order to address this problem, we propose a framework for the analysis and creation of personalised TEL. This article outlines and explains this framework with examples from a series of case studies. The framework serves as a valuable resource in order to change or consolidate existing practice and suggests design guidelines for effective implementations of future personalised TEL.
Long noncoding RNA SchLAH suppresses metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma through interacting with fused in sarcoma
Authors: Ge Zhouhong , Cheng Zhuoan , Yang Xinrong , Huo Xisong , Wang Ning , Wang Hui , Wang Cun , Gu Dishui , Zhao Fangyu , Yao Ming , Fan Jia , Qin Wenxin 
Published: February 2017

Emerging evidence has indicated that deregulation of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can contribute to the progression and metastasis of human cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the roles of most lncRNAs in HCC remain largely unknown. Here we found a long noncoding RNA termed SchLAH (seven chromosome locus associated with HCC; also called BC035072) was generally downregulated in HCC. Low expression of SchLAH was significantly correlated with shorter overall survival of HCC patients. In vitro and in vivo assays indicated that overexpression of SchLAH inhibited the migration and lung metastasis of HCC cells. Knockdown of SchLAH by siRNA pool promoted the migration of HCC cells. RNA pull‐down and RNA immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated SchLAH physically interacted with fused in sarcoma (FUS). PCR array analysis showed that RhoA and Rac1 were the downstream effector molecules of SchLAH during HCC metastasis. Knockdown of FUS rescued the mRNA levels of RhoA and Rac1 that were repressed by SchLAH. These results suggest that SchLAH may suppress the metastasis of HCC cells by interacting with FUS, which indicates potential of SchLAH for the prognosis and treatment of HCC.
The current spectrum of contact sensitization in patients with chronic leg ulcers or stasis dermatitis – new data from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK)
Authors: Erfurt‐Berge Cornelia , Geier Johannes , Mahler Vera 
Published: February 2017

SummaryBackgroundPatients with lower leg dermatitis, chronic venous insufficiency or chronic leg ulcers have a high prevalence of contact sensitization.ObjectivesTo identify the current spectrum of contact allergens in these patients.Patients and methodsData of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology on 5264 patients with the above diagnoses from the years 2003 to 2014 (study group) were compared with data on 4881 corresponding patients from 1994 to 2003 (historical control group) and with a current control group without these diagnoses (n = 55 510).ResultsAllergic contact dermatitis was diagnosed less frequently in the study group than in the historical control group (25.9% versus 16.9%; p < 0.001), and contact sensitization to most allergens had declined. The allergen spectrum, however, was largely unchanged. Important allergens are Myroxylon pereirae (balsam of Peru) (14.8% positive reactions), fragrance mix I (11.4%), lanolin alcohol (7.8%), colophonium (6.6%), neomycin sulfate (5.0%), cetearyl alcohol (4.4%), oil of turpentine (3.1%), and paraben mix (2.6%). Patch testing with additional series showed sensitization to Amerchol L‐101 (9.7%), tert‐butyl hydroquinone (8.7%), framycetin sulfate (5.0%), and gentamicin sulfate (3.1%).ConclusionsTopical preparations for treating the above‐mentioned conditions should not contain fragrances, Myroxylon pereirae, and colophonium. The special allergen spectrum has to be considered in patch testing.
Multilateral Trade Liberalisation and Foreign Direct Investment Inflows
Authors: Gnangnon Sèna Kimm 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis paper investigates two questions: how does multilateral trade liberalisation affect inward foreign direct investment, and does this impact (if any) depend on the domestic trade policy? The analysis uses a panel data set comprising 171 countries spanning the period 1995–2012. Results indicate that multilateral trade policy liberalisation is conducive to higher FDI inflows in host countries. Furthermore, our evidence suggests that domestic trade policy almost always positively drives inward FDI in a context of multilateral trade policy liberalisation. Countries which initially have the most restrictive trade policy regimes appear to be the greatest beneficiaries of FDI inflows when they liberalise their trade policy in the context of multilateral trade liberalisation.
The twilight of the setter? Public school budgets in a time of institutional change
Authors: Corcoran Sean , Romer Thomas , Rosenthal Howard 
Published: February 2017

AbstractWe use a policy change that occurred in Oregon in the late 1980s to re‐visit the budget‐maximizing agenda setter theory of local public expenditure. Prior to 1987, Oregon school districts held operating levy elections with an exogenous, often zero or very low, spending reversion. From 1987 through 1990, districts experienced a “safety net” regime where the reversion was at least the previous year's nominal spending. We find that the “safety net” sharply limited the agenda setter's ability to use the reversion as a threat to obtain voter approval of relatively large expenditures.
Spring predictability explains different leaf‐out strategies in the woody floras of North America, Europe and East Asia
Authors: Zohner Constantin M. , Benito Blas M. , Fridley Jason D. , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Renner Susanne S. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIntuitively, interannual spring temperature variability (STV) should influence the leaf‐out strategies of temperate zone woody species, with high winter chilling requirements in species from regions where spring warming varies greatly among years. We tested this hypothesis using experiments in 215 species and leaf‐out monitoring in 1585 species from East Asia (EA), Europe (EU) and North America (NA). The results reveal that species from regions with high STV indeed have higher winter chilling requirements, and, when grown under the same conditions, leaf out later than related species from regions with lower STV. Since 1900, STV has been consistently higher in NA than in EU and EA, and under experimentally short winter conditions NA species required 84% more spring warming for bud break, EU ones 49% and EA ones only 1%. These previously unknown continental‐scale differences in phenological strategies underscore the need for considering regional climate histories in global change models.
Atgl deficiency induces podocyte apoptosis and leads to glomerular filtration barrier damage
Authors: Chen Wen , Jiang Youzhao , Han Jian , Hu Jiongyu , He Ting , Yan Tiantian , Huang Na , Zhang Qiong , Mei Hao , Liao Yong , Huang Yuesheng , Chen Bing 
Published: February 2017

Abnormal lipid metabolism, renal lipid accumulation and lipotoxicity are associated with the pathological features of glomerulopathy. However, the mechanisms by which lipid accumulation leads to the development or progression of this disease have not been fully elucidated. In this work, we have identified a role for the rate‐limiting enzyme in lipolysis, adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL; also called patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 2), in renal lipid metabolism and kidney disease. ATGL‐deficient (Atgl(−/−)) mice displayed albuminuria, accompanied by ectopic deposition of fat in the kidney. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated that the contrast agent gadopentetic acid was retained in kidney tissue, suggesting defects in the glomerular filtration barrier. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy revealed lipid deposits in the podocyte, along with foot process fusion and morphological changes suggestive of apoptosis. Indeed, shRNA‐mediated depletion of ATGL promoted podocyte apoptosis, accompanied by increased levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and F‐actin fibre redistribution. These effects could be partially reversed by treatment with the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine. These data suggest that ATGL deficiency induces renal lipid accumulation, proteinuria and glomerular filtration barrier dysfunction and implicate increased intracellular ROS levels in inducing podocyte F‐actin rearrangement, foot process fusion and apoptosis that underlie these pathological features.EnzymesAdipose triglyceride lipase, EC3.1.1.3.
“It goes against the grain”: A qualitative study of the experiences of parents’ administering distressing health‐care procedures for their child at home
Authors: Spiers Gemma , Beresford Bryony 
Published: February 2017

AbstractBackgroundParents caring for children with complex and long‐term conditions at home take on responsibility for technical health‐care procedures that may cause their child distress. Little evidence exists about parents’ experience of this specific aspect of their caring role.AimsTo explore and understand parents’ experiences of administering distressing health‐care procedures as part of caring for their child at home.DesignAn explorative qualitative study.MethodsA purposive sample of parents who were currently carrying out, or had previously carried out, health‐care procedures they thought their child found distressing was recruited. Data were collected using in‐depth interviews and analysed thematically.FindingsAdministering these procedures was not just a clinical task. That the procedures caused distress for the child meant there were additional issues to consider and address. A major issue for parents was being able to prevent or minimize their child's distress, which in turn was closely linked to parents’ own emotional discomfort in the situation. Parents also had to manage their child's physical and verbal resistance, their own emotional discomfort during the procedure, and the presence and reaction of siblings in the home. The types of support that were valued by parents included advice about managing their child's distress and resistance, occasional assistance with procedures, addressing the emotional aspects of the role, and adequate training and on‐going supervision.ConclusionThe “added” challenges of assuming this responsibility have implications for the support of parents caring for ill children at home.
Genetically modified foods: Consumer awareness, opinions and attitudes in selected EU countries
Authors: Popek Stanisław , Halagarda Michał 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe dynamic development of biotechnology in recent years has raised serious public concerns about the possible risks arising from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The aim of this study was to investigate consumer opinions regarding genetically modified (GM) foods. The research also aimed at verifying the differences in the attitudes of respondents from two, relatively culturally diverse research sites. To obtain empirical data a face‐to‐face survey was conducted in 2015. It covered a total of 976 randomly selected individuals. The study was performed in the capital of the United Kingdom—London and the Polish capital—Warsaw. The results of the study show that almost half of the respondents were familiar with the GMO concept. According to the respondents, the greatest benefits arising from the genetic modification are: enhanced shelf‐life of food and crops' resistance to extreme climatic conditions. The main disadvantages were: unpredictable consequences of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) modification, production of species‐specific toxins and food allergenicity. Over two thirds of people surveyed support the idea of the obligatory labeling of GM foods. The information presented on food packaging should primarily include potential contraindications to the consumption, indication that food was produced using transgenic sources and a warning about potential allergenicity. An almost equal number of respondents showed intention for purchasing GM food products, an intention to act otherwise, or was not decided. As many as 27.7% of survey participants showed negative attitudes toward GM foods, whereas only 19.8% predominantly positive. It is worth noticing that, with only one exception, no statistically significant differences were observed between the opinions of Polish and British respondents.
Depression and medication adherence among older Korean patients with hypertension: Mediating role of self‐efficacy
Authors: Son Youn‐Jung , Won Mi Hwa 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMany studies have reported the negative effects of depression on adherence to antihypertensive medication. However, little is known about the mechanism underlying this relationship in elderly patients with hypertension. The aim of this cross‐sectional study is to examine the mediating role of self‐efficacy in the relationship between depression and medication adherence among older patients with hypertension. The data were collected from October to December 2014. A total of 255 older patients with hypertension were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale, the Self‐efficacy for Appropriate Medication Use Scale, and the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale. Hierarchical linear regression analysis and the Sobel test were used to examine the mediating role of self‐efficacy in the relationship between depression and medication adherence. Depression and self‐efficacy were statistically significant predictors of medication adherence in older patients with hypertension. Self‐efficacy partially mediated the relationship between depression and medication adherence. Interventions targeting self‐efficacy could increase the confidence of patients in their ability to actively take their medicines. Moreover, health care providers should be aware of the importance of early detection of depression in older patients with hypertension. Future studies with longitudinal data are warranted to clarify the multidirectional relationships between depression, self‐efficacy, and medication adherence.