bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Core Outcome Domains for Clinical Trials on Somatic Symptom Disorder, Bodily Distress Disorder, and Functional Somatic Syndromes: European Network on Somatic Symptom Disorders Recommendations
Authors: Rief Winfried , Burton Chris , Frostholm Lisbeth , Henningsen Peter , Kleinstäuber Maria , Kop Willem J. , Löwe Bernd , Martin Alexandra , Malt Ulrik , Rosmalen Judith , Schröder Andreas , Shedden-Mora Meike , Toussaint Anne , van der Feltz-Cornelis Christina 
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Objective
The harmonization of core outcome domains in clinical trials facilitates comparison and pooling of data, and simplifies the preparation and review of research projects and comparison of risks and benefits of treatments. Therefore, we provide recommendations for the core outcome domains that should be considered in clinical trials on the efficacy and effectiveness of interventions for somatic symptom disorder, bodily distress disorder, and functional somatic syndromes.

Methods
The European Network on Somatic Symptom Disorders group of more than 20 experts in the field met twice in Hamburg to discuss issues of assessment and intervention research in somatic symptom disorder, bodily distress disorder, and functional somatic syndromes. The consensus meetings identified core outcome domains that should be considered in clinical trials evaluating treatments for somatic symptom disorder and associated functional somatic syndromes.

Results
The following core domains should be considered when defining ascertainment methods in clinical trials: a) classification of somatic symptom disorder/bodily distress disorder, associated functional somatic syndromes, and comorbid mental disorders (using structured clinical interviews), duration of symptoms, medical morbidity, and prior treatments; b) location, intensity, and interference of somatic symptoms; c) associated psychobehavioral features and biological markers; d) illness consequences (quality of life, disability, health care utilization, health care costs; e) global improvement and treatment satisfaction; and f) unwanted negative effects.

Conclusions
The proposed criteria are intended to improve synergies of clinical trials and to facilitate decision making when comparing different treatment approaches. These recommendations should not result in inflexible guidelines, but increase consistency across investigations in this field.
Uncovering genomic trajectories with heterogeneous genetic and environmental backgrounds across single-cells and populations
Authors: Campbell Kieran , Yau Christopher 
Published: July 2017

AbstractPseudotime algorithms can be employed to extract latent temporal information from crosssectional data sets allowing dynamic biological processes to be studied in situations where the collection of genuine time series data is challenging or prohibitive. Computational techniques have arisen from areas such as single-cell ‘omics and in cancer modelling where pseudotime can be used to learn about cellular differentiation or tumour progression. However, methods to date typically assume homogenous genetic and environmental backgrounds, which becomes particularly limiting as datasets grow in size and complexity. As a solution to this we describe a novel statistical framework that learns pseudotime trajectories in the presence of non-homogeneous genetic, phenotypic, or environmental backgrounds. We demonstrate that this enables us to identify interactions between such factors and the underlying genomic trajectory. By applying this model to both single-cell gene expression data and population level cancer studies we show that it uncovers known and novel interaction effects between genetic and enironmental factors and the expression of genes in pathways. We provide an R implementation of our methodPhenoPathathttps://github.com/kieranrcampbell/phenopath
Mechanics ofHydraDetachment from Substrates: The Role of Substrate Rigidity and Starvation
Authors: Khetan Neha , Maheshwari Shagun , Athale Chaitanya A. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractHydrais a fresh water hydrozoan living as a solitary polyp with a sedentary feeder lifestyle attached to a substrate. In times of food shortage they are reported to detach from their substrate and move either by drifting or ‘somer-saulting’. The attachment to the substrate is usually by the basal-body which secretes a mucosal adhesive. The mechanical strength of the adhesion of Hydra has not been quantified so far. Here, we measure the force required to detachHydra vulgarisandHydra magnipapillatafrom a surface and the role of physical and physiological factors. In order to do this, we have developed a flow chamber with a calibrated jet of water. We findH. vulgarisadhering to a hard substrate - a glass cover slip- requires more force to detach it as compared to a soft substrate- polyacrylamide gel. WhileH. vulgarisafter one week of starvation detaches with very similar values of stress,H. magnipapillatadetaches more readily when starved. These results suggest that the strength of adhesion is strongly affected by the stiffness of the substrate, while nutritional status dependence of detachment force appears to be species dependent. Given thatHydradetachment is required during locomotion, our measurements on the one hand suggest the magnitude of forces the animal must exert to detach itself. Additionally, our results suggest active detachment of the base might be required forHydrato achieve movement, and only a small contribution coming from weakening adhesion.
Recurrent excitation between motoneurones propagates across segments and is purely glutamatergic
Authors: Bhumbra G.S. , Beato M. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractSpinal motoneurones constitute the final output for the execution of motor tasks. In addition to innervating muscles, motoneurones project excitatory collateral connections to Renshaw cells and other motoneurones, but the latter have received little attention. We show that motoneurones receive strong synaptic input from other motoneurones throughout development and into maturity with fast type motoneurones systematically receiving greater recurrent excitation than slow type motoneurones. Optical recordings show that activation of motoneurones in one spinal segment can propagate to adjacent segments even in the presence of intact recurrent inhibition. Quite remarkably, while it is known that transmission at the neuromuscular junction is purely cholinergic and Renshaw cells are excited through both acetylcholine and glutamate receptors, here we show that neurotransmission between motoneurones is purely glutamatergic indicating that synaptic transmission systems are differentiated at different post-synaptic targets of motoneurones.
JASPAR RESTful API: accessing JASPAR data from any programming language
Authors: Khan Aziz , Mathelier Anthony 
Published: July 2017

AbstractJASPAR is a widely used open-access database of curated, non-redundant transcription factor binding profiles. Currently, data from JASPAR can be retrieved as flat files or by using programming language-specific interfaces. Here, we present a programming language-independent application programming interface (API) to access JASPAR data using the Representational State Transfer (REST) architecture. The REST API enables programmatic access to JASPAR by most programming languages and returns data in seven widely used formats. Further, it provides an endpoint to infer the TF binding profile(s) likely bound by a given DNA binding domain protein sequence. Additionaly, it provides an interactive browsable interface for bioinformatics tool developers. The REST API is implemented in Python using the Django REST Framework. It is accessible athttp://jaspar.genereg.net/api/and the source code is freeiy available athttps://bitbucket.org/CBGR/jasparunder GPL v3 iicense.
High Resolution Mitochondrial DNA Analysis Sheds Light on Human Diversity, Cultural Interactions and Population Mobility in Northwestern Amazonia
Authors: Arias Leonardo , Barbieri Chiara , Barreto Guillermo , Stoneking Mark , Pakendorf Brigitte 
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACTObjectivesNorthwestern Amazonia (NWA) is a center of high linguistic and cultural diversity. Several language families and linguistic isolates occur in this region, as well as different subsistence patterns: some groups are foragers while others are agriculturalists. In addition, speakers of Eastern Tukanoan languages are known for practicing linguistic exogamy, a marriage system in which partners must come from different language groups. In this study, we use high resolution mitochondrial DNA sequencing to investigate the impact of this linguistic and cultural diversity on the genetic relationships and structure of NWA groups.MethodsWe collected saliva samples from individuals representing 40 different NWA ethnolinguistic groups and sequenced 439 complete mitochondrial genomes to an average coverage of 1030x.ResultsThe mtDNA data revealed that NWA populations have high genetic diversity with extensive sharing of haplotypes among groups. Moreover, groups who practice linguistic exogamy have higher mtDNA diversity, while the foraging Nukak have lower diversity. We also find that rivers play a more important role than either geography or language affiliation in structuring the genetic relationships of populations.DiscussionContrary to the view of NWA as a pristine area inhabited by small human populations living in isolation, our data support a view of high diversity and contact among different ethnolinguistic groups; movement along rivers has probably facilitated this contact. Additionally, we provide evidence for the impact of cultural practices, such as linguistic exogamy, on patterns of genetic variation. Overall, this study provides new data and insights into a remote and little-studied region of the world.
Feature fusion using Extended Jaccard Graph and word embedding for robot
Authors: Liu Shenglan , Sun Muxin , Huang Xiaodong , Wang Wei , Wang Feilong 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
Robot vision is a fundamental device for human–robot interaction and robot complex tasks. In this paper, the authors aim to use Kinect and propose a feature graph fusion (FGF) for robot recognition.

Design/methodology/approach
The feature fusion utilizes red green blue (RGB) and depth information to construct fused feature from Kinect. FGF involves multi-Jaccard similarity to compute a robust graph and word embedding method to enhance the recognition results.

Findings
The authors also collect DUT RGB-Depth (RGB-D) face data set and a benchmark data set to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of this method. The experimental results illustrate that FGF is robust and effective to face and object data sets in robot applications.

Originality/value
The authors first utilize Jaccard similarity to construct a graph of RGB and depth images, which indicates the similarity of pair-wise images. Then, fusion feature of RGB and depth images can be computed by the Extended Jaccard Graph using word embedding method. The FGF can get better performance and efficiency in RGB-D sensor for robots.
Active compliance control of the hydraulic actuated leg prototype
Authors: Zhang Guoteng , Jiang Zhenyu , Li Yueyang , Chai Hui , Chen Teng , Li Yibin 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
Legged robots are inevitably to interact with the environment while they are moving. This paper aims to properly handle these interactions. It works to actively control the joint torques of a hydraulic-actuated leg prototype and achieve compliant motion of the leg.

Design/methodology/approach
This work focuses on the modelling and controlling of a hydraulic-actuated robot leg prototype. First, the design and kinematics of the leg prototype is introduced. Then the linearlized model for the hydraulic actuator is built, and a model-based leg joint torque controller is presented. Furthermore, the virtual model controller is implemented on the prototype leg to achieve active compliance of the leg. Effectiveness of the controllers are validated through the experiments on the physical platform as well as the results from simulations.

Findings
The hydraulic joint torque controller presented in this paper shows good torque tracking performance. And the actively compliant leg successfully emulates the performance of virtual passive components under dynamic situations.

Originality/value
The main contribution of this paper is that it proposed a model-based active compliance controller for the hydraulic-actuated robot leg. It will be helpful for those robots that aim to achieve versatile and safe motions.
Viscoelastic model based bilateral teleoperation for robotic-assisted tele-palpation
Authors: Guo Jing , Li Ping , Yan Huaicheng , Ren Hongliang 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to design a model-based bilateral teleoperation method to improve the feedback force and velocity/position tracking for robotic-assisted tasks (such as palpation, etc.) under constant and/or varying time delay with environment dynamic property. Time delay existing in bilateral teleoperation easily destabilizes the system. Proper control strategies are able to make the system stable, but at the cost of compromised performance. Model-based bilateral teleoperation is designed to achieve enhanced performance of this time-delayed system, but an accurate model is required.

Design/methodology/approach
Viscoelastic model has been used to describe the robot tool-soft tissue interaction behavior. Kevin-Boltzmann (K-B) model is selected to model the soft tissue behavior due to its good accuracy, transient and linearity properties among several viscoelastic models. In this work, the K-B model is designed at the master side to generate a virtual environment of remote robotic tool-soft tissue interaction. In order to obtain improved performance, a self perturbing recursive least square (SPRLS) algorithm is developed to on-line update the necessary parameters of the environment with varying dynamics.

Findings
With fast and optimal on-line estimation of primary parameters of the K-B model, the reflected force of the model-based bilateral teleoperation at the master side is improved as well as the position/velocity tracking performance. This model-based design in the bilateral teleoperation avoids the stability issue caused by time delay in the communication channel since the exchanged information become position/velocity and estimated parameters of the used model. Even facing with big and varying time delay, the system keeps stably and enhanced tracking performance. Besides, the fast convergence of the SPRLS algorithm helps to track the time-varying dynamic of the environment, which satisfies the surgical applications as the soft tissue properties usually are not static.

Originality/value
The originality of this work lies in that an enhanced perception of bilateral teleoperation structure under constant/varying time delay that benefits robotic assisted tele-palpation (time varying environment dynamic) tasks is developed. With SPRLS algorithm to on-line estimate the main parameters of environment, the feedback perception of system can be enhanced with stable velocity/position tracking. The superior velocity/position and force tracking performance of the developed method makes it possible for future robotic-assisted tasks with long-distance communication.
International advocacy NGOs, counter accounting, accountability and engagement
Authors: Denedo Mercy , Thomson Ian , Yonekura Akira 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore how and why international advocacy NGOs (iaNGOs) use counter accounting as part of their campaigns against oil companies operating in the Niger Delta to reform problematic regulatory systems and make visible corporate practices that exploit governance and accountability gaps in relation to human rights violations and environmental damage.

Design/methodology/approach
This arena study draws on different sources of evidence, including interviews with nine iaNGOs representatives involved in campaigns in the Niger Delta. The authors mapped out the history of the conflict in order to locate and make sense of the interviewees’ views on counter accounting, campaigning strategies, accountability and governance gaps as well as their motivations and aspirations for change.

Findings
The evidence revealed an inability of vulnerable communities to engage in relevant governance systems, due to unequal power relationships, corporate actions and ineffective governance practices. NGOs used counter accounts as part of their campaigns to change corporate practices, reform governance systems and address power imbalances. Counter accounts made visible problematic actions to those with power over those causing harm, gave voice to indigenous communities and pressured the Nigerian Government to reform their governance processes.

Practical implications
Understanding the intentions, desired outcomes and limitations of NGO’s use of counter accounting could influence human rights accountability and governance reforms in political institutions, public sector organisations, NGOs and corporations, especially in developing countries.

Social implications
This paper seeks to contribute to accounting research that seeks to protect the wealth and natural endowments of indigenous communities to enhance their life experience.

Originality/value
By interviewing the preparers of counter accounts the authors uncover their reasons as to why they find accounting useful in their campaigns.
Western accounting reforms and accountability in wealth redistribution in patronage-based Nigerian society
Authors: Bakre Owolabi , Lauwo Sarah George , McCartney Sean 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the claim that Western accounting reforms, in particular the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSASs) would enhance transparency and accountability and reduce corruption in patronage-based developing countries such as Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper utilises the patron/clientelism framework to examine the dynamics of Western accounting reforms in the Nigerian patronage-based society, in which the institutions of governance and regulatory structures are arguably weak. The paper utilises archival data and interviews conducted with representatives of state bodies (elected politicians and officials) and professional accounting associations.

Findings
Results from two major reforms (the sale of government-owned residential properties in Lagos and the monetisation of fringe benefits for public officials) are presented. Despite the claim of the adoption of Western accounting standards, and in particular IPSAS 17, which requires full accrual accounting and the utilisation of fair value in property valuation, historical cost accounting appeared to have been mobilised to massively corrupt the process for the benefit of politicians, other serving and retired public officials and family members.

Originality/value
This study contributes to the current literature by providing evidence of the relationship between patronage, corruption and accounting in wealth redistribution in the patronage-based Nigerian socio-political and economic context.
Determinants of corporate financial performance relating to board characteristics of corporate governance in Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Palaniappan G. 
Published: July 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine if certain board characteristics have an impact on the financial performance of manufacturing firms in India.Design/methodology/approachThe study draws on data from 275 firms listed in NSE during from 2011 to 2015, using a multiple regression model. The present study examines the effect of board characteristics such as board size, CEO duality, independence and board activity devoted to the effectiveness of firms performance regarding market and accounting based financial performance measures.FindingsThe finding supports an inverse association between the extent of board characteristics and the firms’ performance indicators. The study also finds a statistically significant negative relationship between board size and TobinsQ, ROA and ROE. The evidence also shows that the board independence and meeting frequency moderate the relationship between return on equity and return on assets by enhancing these measures among corporate governance mechanisms.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study does not include all possible board characteristics, i.e., large shareholders dominance on the board and promoter’s and institutional shareholding, to support firm’s performance. Further research might include the ownership structure of the board to improve firm’s performance.Originality/valueThe study focuses on the corporate governance issues such as size, duality, independence and activity of the boards and their influence on firm performance. The subject analyzes the possible impact of board characteristics and firm-related features that have received much attention from academic research, which has largely focused on studying the publications of corporate governance in India and Asian context.
Cooperation in R&D, firm size and type of partnership
Authors: Badillo Erika Raquel , Galera Francisco Llorente , Moreno Serrano Rosina 
Published: July 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse cooperation in R&D in the automobile industry in Spain. It first examines to what extent firms cooperate with external actors in the field of technological innovation, and if so, with what type of cooperation partner, paying special attention to the differentiation according to the size of the firms. Second, it aims to study how the firm’s size may affect not only the decision of cooperating but also with which type of partner.Design/methodology/approachThe data in this study came from the surveys done in 2010 and 2013 by the Technological Innovation Panel (PITEC) for firms in the automotive industry. The paper estimates a bivariate probit model that takes into account the two types of cooperation mostly present in such an industry, vertical and institutional, explicitly considering the interdependencies that may arise in their simultaneous choice.FindingsThe empirical study confirms that small firms cooperate less frequently than big firms and that giving more importance to information publicly available and having public financial support from local and national governments are important determinants of collaboration agreements, mainly in the case of customers and suppliers.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the understanding of the motivations of the automotive industry for engaging in R&D cooperation agreements. The authors study how the firm’s size may affect not only the decision of cooperating but also with which type of partner.