bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding subjects contained in Dunhuang mural images for deep semantic annotation
Authors: Wang Xiaoguang , Song Ningyuan , Zhang Lu , Jiang Yanyu 
Published: December 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to understand the subjects contained in the Dunhuang mural images as well as their relation structures.Design/methodology/approachThis paper performed content analysis based on Panofsky’s theory and 237 research papers related to the Dunhuang mural images. UNICET software was also used to study the correlation structures of subject network.FindingsThe results show that the three levels of subject have all captured the attention of Dunhuang mural researchers, the iconology occupy the critical position in the whole image study, and the correlation between iconography and iconology was strong. Further analysis reveals that cultural development, production, and power and domination have high centralities in the subject network.Research limitations/implicationsThe research samples come from three major Chinese journal databases. However, there are still many authoritative monographs and foreign publications about the Dunhuang murals which are not included in this study.Originality/valueThe results uncover the subject hierarchies and structures contained in the Dunhuang murals from the angle of image scholarship which express scholars’ intention and contribute to the deep semantic annotation on digital Dunhuang mural images.
Examining consumer-brand relationships on social media platforms
Authors: Jain Nikunj Kumar , Kamboj Shampy , Kumar Vinod , Rahman Zillur 
Published: December 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how consumer-brand relationships affect brand loyalty and word of mouth when mediated by brand trust considering online brand communities on social media platforms.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual model is developed, depicting the impact of customer-brand relationships on brand loyalty and word of mouth via brand trust. The conceptual model is validated using partial least squares structural equation modeling and data for which are collected online through a structured questionnaire from a sample of 131 brand community members in North Capital Region of India.FindingsFindings of the present study revealed that brand trust partially mediated between the involvement and commitment variables of customer-brand relationships, and brand loyalty and word of mouth. However, the link between satisfaction variable of customer-brand relationships, and brand loyalty and word of mouth via brand trust was found insignificant.Originality/valueThe present study provides novel insight to understand consumer-brand relationships on social media platforms.
Challenges to the learning organization in the context of generational diversity and social networks
Authors: Kaminska Renata , Borzillo Stefano 
Published: December 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to gain a better understanding of the challenges to the emergence of a learning organization (LO) posed by a context of generational diversity and an enterprise social networking system (ESNS).Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a qualitative methodology based on an analysis of 20 semi-structured interviews in a high-tech organization and internal company documents relating to the introduction of a new, centralized ESNS.FindingsThis study uncovers fundamental differences between Generation X and Y employees regarding their ESNS adoption and use. While Xers take more time to adopt the new centralized ESNS introduced into the company, their use seems in line with the company culture and corporate norms of behavior. At the same time, even if Yers are faster ESNS adopters, they use it as they use Facebook disregarding the hierarchy and organizational boundaries. This creates tensions between Generation X and Y and undermines the formation of the LO.Research limitations/implicationsAs conclusions are specific to a context of a single organization, the authors recommend other case studies, to enrich the findings.Originality/valueBy highlighting how the use of social networks modifies who has the power and the control over knowledge in an organization, this paper enriches the theory on the LO. It has implications for managers wishing to design LOs in the context of intergenerational diversity.
Clinical characteristics of Japanese patients with psoriatic arthritis: Comparison with East Asian countries
Authors: Yamamoto Toshiyuki , Kawada Akira 
Published: December 2017

AbstractTo determine the characteristics and current status of Japanese patients with psoriatic arthritis, the Japanese Society for Psoriasis Research have started to conduct retrospective questionnaire surveys. The results collected from over a thousand patients with psoriatic arthritis have revealed several characteristics. The newly visited psoriatic arthritis patients accounted for approximately 10% of all new psoriatic patients who visited the dermatology department in many referral centers. The prevalence was nearly 15% of psoriatic patients, which was similar to a recent rheumatology and dermatology study in Japan with a large cohort. There was a male predominance. The mean age of onset for cutaneous psoriasis was in the late 30s, while that of arthritis was in the late 40s. If we compare the precedence of cutaneous psoriasis versus arthritis, the psoriasis precedent group accounted for nearly 75%, while arthritis accounted for 5% of cases. The mean duration in patients who developed psoriasis prior to arthritis was over 10 years, while that in patients preceded by arthritis was less than 5 years. According to the Moll and Wright criteria, polyarthritis type was most common, followed by distal interphalangeal type and oligoarthritis type. Biologics were used in over 50% of psoriatic arthritis patients, and TNF inhibitors were currently used in approximately 70% among biologics. Switching to other biologics or discontinuance was seen in 15%. This review shows the current status of psoriatic arthritis in Japan, as well as a comparison of the prevalence among East Asian countries.
Applicability and limitations of sensitivity analyses for wildlife management
Authors: Manlik Oliver , Lacy Robert C. , Sherwin William B. 
Published: December 2017

Abstract

Sensitivity analyses that assess the impact of changing vital rates on population growth have been widely used to guide conservation. If implemented with caution, they can provide guidance as to which management actions will optimize conservation outcomes.

In this review, we first focus on the commonly used proportional sensitivity and elasticity analyses that change each vital rate by equal proportions, to assess their importance for wildlife management. These types of analyses also feature potential pitfalls and limitations, including (1) Each vital rate is usually on a different scale. Without appropriate scaling this can result in a flawed evaluation of the importance of vital rates. (2) Vital rates rarely change at equal proportions in nature. This can bring about misguided management recommendations on the basis of vital rate changes that are unrealistic. (3) Proportional sensitivity analyses often do not reflect the feasibility and effectiveness of altering particular demographic parameters. Consequently, relying solely on proportional sensitivities or elasticities can lead to flawed evaluation of the importance of vital rates and thus prioritization of management options that are unrealistic or ineffective.

We outline alternative approaches, which involve assessing the impact of threats, the relative demography of stable and declining populations, the effect of observable variation of vital rates on population viability, and the potential effects of feasible management scenarios.

Synthesis and applications. Sensitivity analyses are useful tools to guide wildlife management. If implemented and interpreted with care, sensitivity analyses can identify key demographic parameters and threats to population viability. However, their usefulness is limited, when applied without careful evaluation as to whether the perturbations evaluated are realistic, feasible and meet the need of wildlife managers. We caution against the over‐reliance on proportional sensitivity and elasticity analyses and point to alternative approaches, including life‐stage simulation analysis, vital rate sensitivity analysis or manual perturbations.
Lessons From Analyzing the Medical Costs of Civilian Terror Victims: Planning Resources Allocation for a New Era of Confrontations
Authors: ELLENBERG EYTAN , TARAGIN MARK I. , HOFFMAN JAY R. , COHEN OSNAT , LUFT‐AFIK DANIELLA , BAR‐ON ZVIA , OSTFELD ISHAY 
Published: December 2017

Policy Points:
Across the globe, the threat from terrorist attacks is rising, which requires a careful assessment of long‐term medical support.
We found 3 major sources of costs: hospital expenditures, mental health services dedicated to acute stress reactions, and ambulatory follow‐up. During the first year, most of the costs were related to hospitalization and support for stress relief. During the second year, ambulatory and rehabilitation costs continued to grow.
Public health specialists should consider these major components of costs and their evolution over time to properly advise the medical and social authorities on allocating resources for the medical and nonmedical support of civilian casualties resulting from war or terror.
ContextAcross the globe, the threat from terrorist attacks is rising, which requires a careful assessment of long‐term medical support. Based on an 18‐month follow‐up of the Israeli civilian population following the 2014 war in Gaza, we describe and analyze the medical costs associated with rocket attacks and review the demography of the victims who filed claims for disability compensation. We then propose practical lessons to help health care authorities prepare for future confrontations.MethodUsing the National Insurance Institute of Israel's (NII) database, we conducted descriptive and comparative analyses using statistical tests (Fisher's Exact Test, chi‐square test, and students’ t‐tests). The costs were updated until March 30, 2016, and are presented in US dollars. We included only civilian expenses in our analysis.FindingsWe identified 5,189 victims, 3,236 of whom presented with acute stress reactions during the conflict. Eighteen months after the conflict, the victims’ total medical costs reached $4.4 million. The NII reimbursed $2,541,053 for associated medical costs and $1,921,792 for associated mental health costs. A total of 709 victims filed claims with the NII for further support, including rehabilitation, medical devices, and disability pensions.ConclusionWe found 3 major sources of costs: hospital expenditures, mental health services dedicated to acute stress reactions, and ambulatory follow‐up. During the first year, most of the costs were related to hospitalization and support for stress relief. During the second year, ambulatory and rehabilitation costs continued to grow. Public health specialists should consider these major components of costs and their evolution over time to properly advise the medical and social authorities on allocating resources for the medical and nonmedical support of civilian casualties resulting from war or terror.
Functional Magnetic Nanoparticles for Highly Efficient Cholesterol Removal
Authors: Sun Jun , Xu Bin , Mu Yaoyao , Ma Haile , Qu Wenjuan 
Published: December 2017

AbstractIn this study, magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with carboxylated β‐cyclodextrin (CM‐β‐CD; referred to Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD) were synthesized and used for the efficient removal of cholesterol from milk and egg yolk via host–guest interactions. The results of Fourier‐transform infrared, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the CM‐β‐CD was successfully conjugated to the surface of Fe3O4, and the amount of CM‐β‐CD attached on Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD was determined to be 9.164%. The X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy data revealed that the process of CM‐β‐CD coating did not result in a phase change of the Fe3O4, and the Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD nanoparticles were determined to have an average size of about 15 nm. The results of isotherm adsorption and kinetic properties indicated that CM‐β‐CD functionalization increased the cholesterol removal efficiency, and the characteristics of cholesterol adsorption on Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD were fitted well with the Langmuir adsorption model and Lagergren pseudo‐1st‐order kinetic models. Furthermore, compared with the Fe3O4 nanoparticles, the functionalized Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD nanoparticles exhibited greater cholesterol removal efficiency, and saponification of the milk and egg yolk was found to be beneficial for the cholesterol removal; using the Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD nanoparticles, 98.8% and 94.6% of the cholesterol was extracted in 1 h from saponified milk and egg yolk, respectively, and the Fe3O4@CM‐β‐CD nanoparticles still displayed efficient cholesterol removal after 6 reuses.
The Impact of Long‐Term Intake of Phenolic Compounds‐Rich Grape Pomace on Rat Gut Microbiota
Authors: Chacar Stéphanie , Itani Tarek , Hajal Joelle , Saliba Youakim , Louka Nicolas , Faivre Jean‐François , Maroun Richard , Fares Nassim 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe aim of this work is to evaluate the impact on the rat microbiota of long‐term feeding with phenolic compounds (PC) rich grape pomace extracts. Thirty, 2‐mo‐old rats, were divided into 5 groups. Four groups were treated with different concentrations of PC (2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/d diluted in 0.1% DMSO), and 1 group received 0.1% Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) alone (control group). The daily treatment lasted 14 mo. Major phenolic compounds constituents were characterized by the high‐performance liquid chromatography and free radical scavenging capacity was measured by means of the DPPH assay. Fecal samples from young rats (2‐mo old), and rats daily fed with PC or DMSO were collected at 6 and 14 mo posttreatment. The gut microbiota composition was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Bifidobacterium was significantly higher in the groups PC 2.5 and PC 5 than in control and young rats. Lactobacillus decreased with time in all treated and untreated groups. Bacteroides, Clostridium leptum subgroup (Clostridium cluster IV), and Enterococcus were not significantly changed by PC at any concentration when compared to control; nevertheless, after 14 mo of treatment all concentrations of PC abolished the increase of Clostridium sensu stricto (cluster I) (Clostridium Cluster I) observed in the control group when compared to young rats. PC do modulate selectively rat gut microbiome to a healthier phenotype in long‐term feeding rats, and could counteract the adverse outcomes of aging on gut bacterial population.Practical ApplicationThis research shows that phenolic‐rich grape pomace extracts exhibiting a high antioxidant activity, selectively modulate rat gut microbiota to a healthier phenotype within age in a long‐term feeding rats.
Integrating continuous stocks and flows into state‐and‐transition simulation models of landscape change
Authors: Daniel Colin J. , Sleeter Benjamin M. , Frid Leonardo , Fortin Marie‐Josée 
Published: December 2017

Abstract

State‐and‐transition simulation models (STSMs) provide a general framework for forecasting landscape dynamics, including projections of both vegetation and land‐use/land‐cover (LULC) change. The STSM method divides a landscape into spatially referenced cells and then simulates the state of each cell forward in time, as a discrete‐time stochastic process using a Monte Carlo approach, in response to any number of possible transitions. A current limitation of the STSM method, however, is that all of the state variables must be discrete.

Here we present a new approach for extending a STSM, in order to account for continuous state variables, called a STSM with stocks and flows (STSM‐SF). The STSM–SF method allows for any number of continuous stocks to be defined for every spatial cell in the STSM, along with a suite of continuous flows specifying the rates at which stock levels change over time. The change in the level of each stock is then simulated forward in time, for each spatial cell, as a discrete‐time stochastic process. The method differs from the traditional systems dynamics approach to stock‐flow modelling in that the stocks and flows can be spatially explicit, and the flows can be expressed as a function of the STSM states and transitions.

We demonstrate the STSM‐SF method by integrating a spatially explicit carbon (C) budget model with a STSM of LULC change for the state of Hawai'i, USA. In this example, continuous stocks are pools of terrestrial C, whereas the flows are the possible fluxes of C between these pools. Importantly, several of these C fluxes are triggered by corresponding LULC transitions in the STSM. Model outputs include changes in the spatial and temporal distribution of C pools and fluxes across the landscape in response to projected future changes in LULC over the next 50 years.

The new STSM‐SF method allows both discrete and continuous state variables to be integrated into a STSM, including interactions between them. With the addition of stocks and flows, STSMs provide a conceptually simple yet powerful approach for characterizing uncertainties in projections of a wide range of questions regarding landscape change.
Diagnosis of vertical root fractures in endodontically treated teeth utilising Digital Subtraction Radiography: A case series report
Authors: Mikrogeorgis Georgios , Eirinaki Eleni , Kapralos Vasileios , Koutroulis Andreas , Lyroudia Kleoniki , Pitas Ioannis 
Published: December 2017

AbstractVertical root fractures are commonly associated with root‐filled teeth. Diagnosis is challenging because the clinical signs are not completely pathognomonic, and conventional periapical radiography is often unreliable. Digital subtraction radiography (DSR) is able to detect small radiographic changes between two successive radiographs by subtracting out consistent radiographic elements. Its use could possibly assist in the diagnostic procedure. Four cases are presented to demonstrate the potential use of DSR in the detection of vertical root fractures in endodontically treated teeth. After the digital subtractions had been carried out, a dark line in the body of the roots was distinguishable, raising the possibility of the presence of a vertical root fracture. The use of contrast enhancement and pseudocolouring techniques assisted with the diagnosis of vertical root fractures. DSR proved to be a useful diagnostic tool for the detection of vertical root fractures in these four clinical cases.
Computational flow cytometry analysis reveals a unique immune signature of the human maternal‐fetal interface
Authors: Vazquez Jessica , Chavarria Melina , Li Yan , Lopez Gladys E. , Stanic Aleksandar K. 
Published: December 2017

ProblemDecidual immune dysregulation is thought to underlie major pregnancy disorders; however, incomplete understanding of the decidual immune interface has hampered the mechanistic investigation.Method of studyHuman term decidua was collected, and single‐cell phenotypic information was acquired by highly polychromatic flow cytometry. Cellular identity analysis was performed with t‐distributed stochastic neighbor embedding, DensVM clustering, and matched to CellOntology database.ResultsTraditional analytical methods validated known cellular T and dendritic cell subsets in human term decidua. Computational analysis revealed a complex and tissue‐specific decidual immune signature in both the innate and adaptive immune compartments.ConclusionPolychromatic flow cytometry with a streamlined computational analysis pipeline is a feasible approach to comprehensive immunome mapping of human term decidua. As an unbiased, standardized method of investigation, computational flow cytometry promises to unravel the immune pathology of pregnancy disorders.
Pilot multi‐centre randomised trial of the impact of pre‐operative focused cardiac ultrasound on mortality and morbidity in patients having surgery for femoral neck fractures (ECHONOF‐2 pilot)
Authors: Canty D. J. , Heiberg J. , Yang Y. , Royse A. G. , Margale S. , Nanjappa N. , Scott D. , Maier A. , Sessler D. I. , Chuan A. , Palmer A. , Bucknill A. , French C. , Royse C. F. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryHip fracture surgery is common, usually occurs in elderly patients who have multiple comorbidities, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Pre‐operative focused cardiac ultrasound can alter diagnosis and management, but its impact on outcome remains uncertain. This pilot study assessed feasibility and group separation for a proposed large randomised clinical trial of the impact of pre‐operative focused cardiac ultrasound on patient outcome after hip fracture surgery. Adult patients requiring hip fracture surgery in four teaching hospitals in Australia were randomly allocated to receive focused cardiac ultrasound before surgery or not. The primary composite outcome was any death, acute kidney injury, non‐fatal myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, pulmonary embolism or cardiopulmonary arrest within 30 days of surgery. Of the 175 patients screened, 100 were included as trial participants (screening:recruitment ratio 1.7:1), 49 in the ultrasound group and 51 as controls. There was one protocol failure among those recruited. The primary composite outcome occurred in seven of the ultrasound group patients and 12 of the control group patients (relative group separation 39%). Death, acute kidney injury and cerebrovascular accident were recorded, but no cases of myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism or cardiopulmonary arrest ocurred. Focused cardiac ultrasound altered the management of 17 participants, suggesting an effect mechanism. This pilot study demonstrated that enrolment and the protocol are feasible, that the primary composite outcome is appropriate, and that there is a treatment effect favouring focused cardiac ultrasound – and therefore supports a large randomised clinical trial.
Gait speed predicts post‐operative medical complications in elderly gastric cancer patients undergoing gastrectomy
Authors: Chandoo Arvine , Chi Chu‐Huai , Ji Weiping , Huang Yingpeng , Chen Xiao‐Dong , Zhang Wei‐Teng , Wu Rui‐Sen , Shen Xian 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundGait speed is a clinical outcome that can measure the physical performance of elderly gastric patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the importance of gait speed in predicting post‐operative morbidities in elderly patients undergoing curative gastrectomy.MethodsWe conducted a prospective study of 357 elderly patients (≥65 years old) undergoing curative gastrectomy. Preoperative gait speed was measured in a 6‐m well‐lit and unobstructed hallway. Patients were followed up for the post‐operative clinical outcomes. Factors contributing to the post‐operative morbidities were analysed using univariate and multivariate analyses.ResultsSlow gait speed was present in 95 out of 357 patients (26.61%) which was significantly associated with age (P < 0.001), gender (P = 0.016), plasma albumin (P < 0.001), American Society of Anesthesiologists grade (P = 0.012), tumour‐node‐metastasis grade (P = 0.007), sarcopenia (P < 0.001), handgrip (P < 0.001) and post‐operative medical complications (P = 0.022). In univariate analysis, age (P = 0.015) and slow gait speed (P = 0.029) were risk factors of post‐operative complications. In multivariate analysis, we found that age (P < 0.001) and slow gait speed (P = 0.029) were independent predictors of post‐operative medical complications.ConclusionSlow gait speed is an independent predictor of post‐operative medical complications in elderly patients undergoing curative gastrectomy. Those patients should be managed with appropriate perioperative nutritional support and physical exercise which can improve gait speed and reduce the risk of post‐operative medical complications.