bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge for Software Maintenance
Authors: Taylor Mark , Moynihan Eddie , Wood-Harper Trevor
Published: December 2018

Studies have shown that maintenance is up to 80% of the life-cycle effort of developing and maintaining a business information technology (IT) system. There are several factors which significantly affect maintenance work. This paper concentrates on one of these factors which is the knowledge staff require for effective and efficient systems maintenance. The knowledge required is split into two categories. Firstly, there is the knowledge of the business environment within which an IT system operates. Secondly, there is the knowledge of the technical IT system, particularly the details of the software structure. It is argued that both categories of knowledge are equally important and difficult to acquire. Examples of techniques for improving this knowledge are discussed. The article is partly based on case-study research into the actual practice of systems development and maintenance in 31 UK IT departments.
Are General Managers Well Prepared to Manage It? the Role of it in General MBA Programmes in Australia
Authors: Sauer Chris , Sharma Rajeev , Potter Barbara
Published: December 2018

This paper reports on the results from a survey of the provision of information technology (IT) course units in general MBA programmes in Australia. The results establish a baseline for future studies. They show widespread penetration of IT courses in general MBAs, but the amount and type of content they provide is only sufficient to give students a partial preparation for the general management task with respect to IT. There is an internal expectation gap between what IT academics view as core and the time and space available in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) curriculum. There is an external expectation gap between the issues currently of concern to business and the topics taught. At present the gap is widest in respect of business managers’ concerns about information infrastructure and organizational learning. The evidence suggests that neither expectation gap will decline over the next 5 years and may increase. We conclude that there is a need for increased provision in the curriculum. Recommendations are made for two core courses, with more attention to be given to topics of current concern to business managers.
Developing and Implementing Is: A Case Study Analysis in Social Services
Authors: Riley Lesley , Smith Gill
Published: December 2018

Many organizations fail to implement or reap the benefits of information systems (IS) projects. The social care sector is not yet a great user of information technology (IT) and the thinking about IS is generally less well-developed than, for instance, in the health care sector. Research in health informatics indicates that there are special problems in creating integrated solutions and achieving the uptake of systems. This project was therefore undertaken with the benefit of experience of previous projects in health and social services and in the expectation that attention to participative design and people factors would be the key determinants of success. The paper describes the outcomes and draws conclusions about the special characteristics of IS projects in social services.
Evaluating Information Systems Projects: A Multidimensional Approach
Authors: Fitzgerald Guy
Published: December 2018

Evaluation of IS/IT investments is a notoriously difficult area. Some doubt that IT investments are ever really productive; others point to mismeasurement as a major reason for such a conclusion and for the so-called IT ‘productivity paradox’. The paper reviews traditional approaches to IS/IT evaluation, and discusses their limitations. An eight-stage, multidimensional approach is then put forward to address those limitations.
Bridging the User–is Gap: A Study of Major Information Systems Projects
Authors: Taylor-Cummings Andrea
Published: December 2018

A ‘culture gap’ between IS professionals and their business counterparts has been blamed for many of the problems and failures that have plagued systems development in the last four decades. A rich model of integration is developed based on normative, organizational and work group features. The model is utilized to analyse survey results and case studies of 12 major IS projects being implemented in the UK retail and electronics sectors. The research provides detailed profiles of goal, transitional and unhelpful practices and states, and highlights key success variables in achieving user–IS staff integration on major IS development projects.
How Chief Executive Officers in Large Organizations View the Management of their Information Systems
Authors: Pervan Graham
Published: December 2018

As part of a research programme on key information systems (IS) management issues, a survey of Australasia's largest organizations was conducted to identify which issues were perceived by their chief executive officers (CEOs) as being important, problematic and critical over the next 3–5 years. The results reported are based on a moderate response rate (though perhaps reasonable for the target group) but formal testing showed an absence of non-response bias. The most critical issues were revealed to be a mix of technology management issues (managing and measuring the effectiveness of the information technology (IT) infrastructure, and disaster recovery), strategic management issues (business process redesign, competitive advantage, and information architecture), people and support management issues (organizational learning, and executive and decision support) and systems development and data management issues (effective use of the data resource and effectiveness of software development). This reflects their interest in a wide range of issues, but all with an organization-wide focus. The non-critical issues were mostly related to the individual technologies and the place and role of IS in the organization. While the CEOs showed some agreement with their chief information officers (CIOs) on issues such as the IT infrastructure, competitive advantage and organizational learning, some distinct differences exist, particularly in relation to the quality and effectiveness of systems and processes and also how CEOs and CIOs perceive the IT knowledge of the CEOs.
Talking Heads vs. Virtual Workspaces: A Comparison of Design across Cultures
Authors: Heaton Lorna
Published: December 2018

The past decade has seen the development of a perspective holding that technology is socially constructed. This paper examines the social construction of one group of technologies, systems for computer supported cooperative work (CSCW). It compares the design of systems for computer supported cooperative work (CSCW) in Scandinavia and Japan with particular attention to the influence of culture on the resulting products. Two case studies are presented to illustrate the argument that culture is an important factor in technology design, despite commonly held assumptions about the neutrality and objectivity of science and technology. The paper further proposes an explanation for why, despite similar technical backgrounds and research interests, CSCW design is conducted differently and produces different results in Denmark and Japan. It argues that, by looking at CSCW systems as texts which reflect the context of their production and the society from which they come, we may be better able to understand the transformations that operate when these texts are ‘read’ in the contexts of their implementation.
Towards a Hermeneutic Method for Interpretive Research in Information Systems
Authors: Butler Tom
Published: December 2018

There is increasing interest in hermeneutics as a research approach in the field of information systems. However, the problem facing researchers is that there is a paucity of information on the application of hermeneutics for empirical research in the social sciences; indeed, there is very little guidance on what exactly constitutes a hermeneutic method for the investigation of social phenomena. In order to address this problem, this paper provides an overview of concepts and principles from the related philosophies of phenomenology and hermeneutics; it then illustrates their application in an interpretive case study on the information systems development process. The insights obtained from the application of the hermeneutic method outlined in this paper have helped realize the study's objective of illustrating the link between phenomenological hermeneutics and the conduct of interpretive research.
Managing the Risks of Intranet Implementation: An Empirical Study of user Satisfaction
Authors: Phelps R. , Mok M.
Published: December 2018

Much interest has been generated recently by the concept of intranets: the use of internet technology to build the communication and data storage infrastructure of the firm. While the advantages of such a concept have been widely publicized, the risks of moving to an intranet based infrastructure are less clear. ‘Fear of the unknown’ may deter some firms from taking advantage of intranets. This empirical study is based in Singapore, a country chosen for its high internet penetration and usage levels. It investigates the factors underlying successful intranet developments. Intranet success as measured by user satisfaction is related to IS management risk factors. It is found that successful intranet implementation can be largely explained by standard determinants of IS success. Some implications for management of intranet developments are discussed.
Managing Electronic Channels: The KLM Cargo Cyberpets Case
Authors: Christiaanse Ellen , Zimmerman Robert-Jan
Published: December 2018

The adoption and management of electronic channels provide critical challenges for managers and researchers in the field of information systems. With the recent advent of electronic commerce, new business models have emerged to capture the value of on-line electronic channels. In electronic channels, channel functions in particular can be combined creatively to reduce costs and improve responsiveness and can be dispersed among several different players. We argue that buying processes and channel functions in electronic channels are of a key strategic nature. This paper presents an analysis of the challenges and requirements of electronic channels and illustrates these with the KLM Cargo Cyberpets case. Cyberpets refers to Pets Travel Service, KLM Cargo's recent addition to its electronic commerce portfolio which organizes and facilitates air transportation plus ancillary services for cats and dogs. The existence of ‘Channel silos’ and channel coordination problems were found to be one of the main inhibitors for channel effectiveness and success. The paper concludes with suggestions for managers as well as for researchers.
IT-Based Product and Process Innovation: A Case from the Spanish Legal Information Sector
Authors: Simon Katrin , Sanchez Pedro J. , Olazaran Mikel
Published: December 2018

In this paper we analyse the process of technical and organizational innovation through which Editorial Aranzadi (the leading firm in the Spanish legal information sector) adapted to the changes in its environment in the late 1980s and early 1990s. After a theoretical introduction, we introduce the firm (Editorial Aranzadi) and study some of the factors that provoked the beginning of the innovation process in the late 1980s. Then we analyse the main phases of the process of introduction of IT and organizational change in Editorial Aranzadi. Attention is then focused on product and process innovation. Finally, we draw the main conclusions from this case study.
Dow Corning Corporation: Business Processes and Information Technology
Authors: Ross Jeanne
Published: December 2018

This case study, which is divided into parts A and B, describes one firm's experiences as it adopted a process perspective to managing its business, examined the implications for its information systems needs, decided to acquire SAP (an integrated, enterprise-wide software package) and embarked on the SAP implementation. ‘Dow Corning Corporation part A: Rethinking the Role of IT Within the Firm’ focuses on the business context and describes the role and structure of the information technology (IT) function at Dow Corning in late 1994. In the midst of a legal crisis that was draining financial resources, the firm had to address global competition. The case poses the question of how IT should be organized and managed to meet current business challenges. ‘Dow Corning Corporation part B: Re-engineering Global Processes’ is set in March 1997. The IT organization had been redesigned and reported to a member of the senior management team. The case focuses on Dow Corning's pilot implementation of SAP and its plans to re-engineer global processes. Special attention is given to the IT unit's role in the re-engineering and systems implementation processes.
Relationship Marketing in Electronic Commerce Environments
Authors: Davis Robert , Buchanan-Oliver Margo , Brodie Roderick
Published: December 2018

The advent of electronic commerce is changing marketing practice. In particular the transformation of traditional intermediaries such as the retailer is occurring as a result of new computer-mediated relationships. This paper uses the setting of an interactive home-shopping supermarket to examine the changing role of the retailer in electronic commerce environments (ECEs). We build on our previous conceptual enquiry which proposed a conceptual model which posits that retailers in an ECE apply a trust-based approach to consumer marketing relationships. In this paper we provide additional literature and empirical evidence to support our proposition that the relationship between the retailer and their customers can be defined by the disconfirmation of two cognitive images of the on-line shopping experience, these being the expected virtual (service brand-created, cognitive image of experience) and actual real (service-process-created, cognitive image of experience) images. This paper develops existing conceptualizations through new, confirmatory, interorganizational case data and consumer-oriented, qualitative, empirical evidence from focus groups that supports our proposition.
Can Nuclear Power Come Back?
Authors: Beaver William
Published: December 2018

The nation’s nuclear power industry is in trouble. The number of operating reactors continues to decline, while only one new plant is scheduled to open and it is well behind schedule and 50% over budget. The article will investigate the possibility of a nuclear revival in this country by first analyzing the troubled history of the light water reactor, a technology that dates back to the 1950s, and one the federal government choose to pursue to ensure America’s technological leadership, and one the nuclear manufactures heavily promoted to ensure profitability. All of this resulted in a rush to nuclear power in the 1960s, but abruptly ended a little more than a decade later, due largely to the exorbitant costs of constructing a nuclear plant. The article then discusses the chances of a nuclear comeback, focusing on new reactor designs, which are less complex and cheaper to construct but will be dependent upon how seriously global warming is viewed by the public and elected officials.
Gender differences in musical motivation at different levels of expertise
Authors: Hallam Susan , Creech Andrea , Varvarigou Maria , Papageorgi Ioulia
Published: December 2018

Recently, models have been developed that recognise the complexity of motivation. These set out the interactions that occur between environmental (cultural, institutional, familial, educational) and internal factors (cognition and affect) enhancing or reducing motivation. Despite this we know very little about gender differences in motivation in relation to playing an instrument. The current study aimed to address this issue, exploring gender differences in motivation and whether these changed as expertise developed. A total of 3325 children ranging in level of expertise from beginner through to Grade 8 level in independent instrumental music examinations completed a questionnaire that included a seven-point Likert scale with statements exploring different aspects of motivation. A principal components analysis was undertaken and six factors emerged: support and social affirmation; social life and enjoyment of musical activities; enjoyment of performing; self-beliefs; enjoyment of lessons, playing and practise; and disliking practise. The only statistically significant gender difference was in relation to self-beliefs with the boys consistently scoring higher. Further research is needed to establish why this is the case. The findings have major implications for education.
Reconstruction of vibration-deformation-induced pointing error via optimized acceleration measurement points for large reflector antennas
Authors: Liang Wei , Huang Jin , Zhang Jie , Tang Xiaodong , Zhang Youran
Published: December 2018

As large reflector antennas have a low natural frequency and primarily operate in open air without a radome, factors such as the stochastic wind disturbance and the moving platform obviously increase the vibration-deformation pointing error. Moreover, in the actual working operation of large reflector antennas, the traditional measurement method can only sense the pointing error at the hinge via encoders and cannot sense the vibration-deformation-induced pointing error of the main reflector. This paper presents a reconstruction method of the vibration-deformation-induced pointing error for the main reflector via optimized acceleration measurement points. First, an entire working condition model of the main reflector for vibration-deformation-induced pointing error observation is established to provide the general relations among the acceleration, location, number of measurement points, and vibration-deformation-induced pointing error. In this model, the vibration-deformation-induced pointing error is reconstructed based on the best-fitting paraboloid theory and the frequency-domain integration approach. Furthermore, a Tikhonov regularization scheme is adopted to mitigate the ill-posedness due to random noise in the measured accelerations. Second, to obtain a well-reconstructed vibration-deformation-induced pointing error with certain accuracy, this study proposes a novel four-symmetric-point dynamic optimization algorithm for optimization of the sensor layout is proposed. Finally, a wind disturbance simulation of a 7.3 m antenna is undertaken. The results show that under the accuracy constraint of 5%, a well-reconstructed vibration-deformation-induced pointing error is obtained from the 20 optimized measurement points. Compared with the effective independence method, four-symmetric-point dynamic optimization algorithm has higher precision in observing the vibration-deformation-induced pointing error and is more convenient for arranging the sensors.
Dynamic analysis of a planar multibody system with multiple revolute clearance joints
Authors: Wang Xupeng , Lin Wenzhou , Ji Xiaomin , Gao Zhu , Bai Xiaobo , Guo Yongxin
Published: December 2018

This paper focuses on the dynamic responses of a planar mechanism with multiple clearance joints. The effect of the impact between the journal and the bearing in the clearance joint is described using an improved impact force model, and a typical four-bar linkage mechanism with multiple clearance joints is presented as an example. Two conditions are considered in this research, one is the single clearance joint with different position, and the other is multiple clearance joints. From a large number of numerical results, some important conclusions are obtained as follows: (1) with the influence of the clearance joint, the dynamic output of system has obvious vibration in comparison to the ideal value. (2) The position of the clearance joint has a clear effect on the response of system; the larger the distance of the clearance joint from the drive motor, the smaller its influence on the output of the system. (3) With the increase in the clearance joint number, the dynamic stability of the multibody system is decreased gradually, and the dynamic characteristic of the system also appears as obvious nonlinear phenomenon. (4) The coupling phenomenon appears when multiple clearance joints in the multibody system are considered, which should be examined seriously during the process of design and numerical analysis.
Allogeneic adipose-derived stem cells suppress mTORC1 pathway in a murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Wei S , Xie S , Yang Z , Peng X , Gong L , Zhao K , Zeng K , Lai K
Published: December 2018

Objective

The aim of our study was to investigate the efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) transplantation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to determine the mechanism of ADSC transplantation.

Methods

B6.MRL/lpr mice were administered ADSC intravenously every week from age 28 to 31 weeks, while the lupus control group and the normal control received phosphate buffered solution (PBS) on the same schedule.

Results

Compared with the lupus control group, the ADSC treatment group had a significant improvement of histologic abnormalities, serologic abnormalities, and immunologic function. Anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies, spleen/weight ratio, deposits of C3/IgG in the kidney, and serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly decreased with the transplantation of ADSC. A significant decrease of the Th17/CD4+ T cell ratio in the spleen, the serum IL-17 concentration, as well as renal IL-17 expression was observed in the ADSC treatment group. Western blot results also showed that ADSC treatment had a lower expression of protein kinase B (Akt), p-Akt, mTOR, p-mTOR, p70S6K, p-p70S6K, and HIF-1α.

Conclusion

ADSC treatment can prevent the development of lupus nephritis and significantly ameliorate already-established disease. ADSC treatment reduced Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, HIF-1α, and that this inhibition can avert IL-17-induced inflammation, suggesting that ADSC may be a promising treatment for SLE.
What Is an “Ethnic Group” in Ordinary People’s Eyes? Different Ways of Understanding It Among American, British, Mexican, and Polish Respondents
Authors: Hamer Katarzyna , McFarland Sam , Czarnecka Barbara , Golińska Agnieszka , Cadena Liliana Manrique , Łużniak-Piecha Magdalena , Jułkowski Tomasz
Published: December 2018

Although the term “ethnic group” (EG) is often used in social studies, its definition differs among researchers. Moreover, little is known about ordinary people’s subjective understanding of this term, even though it is often used in social discourse. We examined this issue in a cross-sectional study of 273 American, British, Mexican, and Polish students using an open-ended questions approach. Results revealed cultural differences in patterns of “ethnic group” definitions across the four countries. U.S. respondents predominantly connected EG to “race”; British participants frequently related it to “race,” but more often to “common culture” and “customs/traditions.” Both latter categories were overwhelmingly dominant in Mexico and Poland. However, “nation,” “shared history,” “religion,” “language,” and “territory” were also very popular as EG understandings in Poland. Although most participants used the newer definition of EG (referring to all groups in a society, including minority and majority groups), a few in each country used the term only to refer to minorities and people different from themselves (an older, “minus one” definition). Unexpected definitions of EG also appeared (e.g., people having similar hobbies, having similar work goals, or living in the same city). The results also indicate that for the United States, the United Kingdom, and Mexico, “ethnic group” was more a subgroup within a nation, whereas in Poland, they represented the same level of categorization. The theoretical and practical implications of our findings are discussed.
Feline abdominal ultrasonography: what’s normal? what’s abnormal? The liver
Authors: Griffin Sally
Published: December 2018

Practical relevance:

Abdominal ultrasound plays a vital role in the diagnostic work-up of many cats presenting to general and specialist practitioners. Ultrasound examination of the liver can be key in the diagnosis of diseases such as hepatic lipidosis and hepatic neoplasia.

Clinical challenges:

Despite ultrasonography being a commonly used modality, many practitioners are not comfortable performing an ultrasound examination or interpreting the resulting images. Even differentiating between normal variation and pathological changes can be challenging for all but the most experienced. When assessing the liver via ultrasound, a diffuse alteration in liver echogenicity may be difficult to detect unless the change is marked and, although comparisons can be made with the spleen and kidneys, this relies on these organs being normal.

Equipment:

Ultrasound facilities are readily available to most practitioners, although use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool is highly dependent on operator experience.

Aim:

This review, the first in an occasional series on feline abdominal ultrasonography, discusses ultrasonographic examination of the normal and diseased liver, with focus on the liver parenchyma. It is aimed at general practitioners who wish to improve their knowledge of and confidence in feline abdominal ultrasound and is accompanied by high-resolution images. Ultrasound-guided sampling of the liver is also covered. Future articles will discuss the biliary tree and hepatic vascular anomalies.

Evidence base:

Information provided in this article is drawn from the published literature and the author’s own clinical experience.
Monstrous rebirth: Re-instating the ethos of bureaucracy in public organization
Authors: Lopdrup-Hjorth Thomas , Roelsgaard Obling Anne
Published: December 2018

This article explores the complexities encountered in attempts to strengthen the ethos of bureaucracy in public organization. It does so by stressing the ethical and organizational conflicts generated in the aspiration to revive this ethos. Empirically, this exploration is done by examining a code introduced in the Danish state-bureaucracy in the aftermath of a number of political-administrative scandals. We show how the ethos of bureaucracy on the one hand has been repressed and displaced and, on the other hand, in light of the scandals, now reappears as something indispensable. At the same time, the article exposes how the revitalization attempt encounters considerable obstacles. By situating the code in relation to changing bureaucratic structures, semantic ideals, and civil servants’ reflections, we show how the revived ethos takes on monstrous proportions. Despite this transfiguration, we argue that the failed attempt at revitalization is no cause to dispense with the ethos of bureaucracy. The article is distinctive in how it bridges hitherto uncoupled streams of literature that are mobilized in the investigation of a critical case. In so doing, it adds to these literatures and seeks to revive critical organizational theorizing in light of current neo-liberal and populist sources of power.
Thinking Relationship Anarchy from a Queer Feminist Approach
Authors: De las Heras Gómez Roma
Published: December 2018

Since the 2000s, general and academic concern in openly non-monogamous styles of relating has increased. In Spain, the rise in the general interest toward non-monogamy, meeting groups, and activism has become apparent during the current decade. One of the practical and theoretical paradigms that has been developed within non-monogamy is relationship anarchy. In this article, I will approach relationship anarchy in three different ways: as a philosophy of love, as a way of structuring affective bonds, and as a political philosophy. I shall then focus on the last one: relationship anarchy as a political philosophy, and what can be gained from thinking relationship anarchy from a queer, feminist perspective. I intend to make a theoretical contribution to the discourse of relationship anarchy as a political philosophy from feminist criticism of monogamy and of the naturalization of love; from the premises of lesbian feminism, compulsory heterosexuality, and the erotic pyramid; and from the concept of amatonormativity and sex-centrism in asexual theory. I shall then consider the usefulness of the relationship anarchy paradigm for radical queer politics in the current Spanish context. Finally, I will raise the concepts of the pyramid of relationships and the continuum (between attractions) system to pose how the different hierarchies that relationship anarchy puts in question are linked: amatonormativity, sex-centrism, and couple privilege.
Using active tuned mass dampers with constrained stroke to simultaneously control vibrations in wind turbine blades and tower
Authors: Cong Cong
Published: December 2018

Simultaneous control of wind turbine blades and tower vibrations is studied in this article. Four active tuned mass dampers have been incorporated into each blade and tower to reduce vibrations. A decentralized constrained H∞ velocity output feedback which restricts the tuned mass damper stroke as a hard constraint is proposed by solving linear matrix inequality. Each active tuned mass damper is driven individually by the output of the corresponding velocity signal. Considering the structural dynamics subjected to gravity, variable rotor speed, and aerodynamic loadings, a model describing dynamics of rotating blades coupled with tower, including the dynamics of active tuned mass dampers, was developed by Euler–Lagrangian formulation. A numerical simulation is carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed decentralized control scheme. Investigations show promising results for the active tuned mass damper in simultaneous control blade vibrations and tower vibrations by decentralized control approach. Numerical results demonstrate that the decentralized control has the similar performance compared to centralized control and effectively reduce the displacement of vibrations.
International comparative assessment of early learning in exceptional learners: Potential benefits, caveats, and challenges
Authors: Lin Pei-Ying , Lin Yu-Cheng
Published: December 2018

Over the decades, it is evident that exceptional learners have been excluded from participating in international assessments such as OECD’s PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) due to their disabilities. Drawing on the interdisciplinary theories and perspectives of educational assessment, measurement, and early childhood special education, the paper discusses the potential benefits young children with special needs may gain from the International Early Learning and Child Well-being Study (IELS), as well as considering caveats and challenges accompanying the use of IELS for these young special education populations. In particular, it raises a range of questions about what and how to collect, validly interpret, and use the IELS data to enhance early learning and development of exceptional learners in participating countries. Finally, the paper discusses accommodations that promote inclusionary assessment practices and level the playing field for young children with special needs.
Research on the precision loss of ball screw with short-time overload impact
Authors: Zhao Jiajia , Lin Mingxing , Song Xianchun , Jiang Hongkui
Published: December 2018

Ball screw is the driving functional component most frequently used for the precision equipment. To a certain extent, the transmission accuracy of precision equipment is affected by the position error of ball screw caused by the elastic–plastic deformation between ball and raceway under the overload impact. This article aims to investigate the precision loss of ball screw considering short-time overload impact. A novel precision loss model combining the Hertzian and Thornton contact theories is established to describe the variations in the axial deformation depths. Thus, the axial precision loss can be defined as the differential value between the initial no-loading travel variations and the loading stroke variations caused by the axial plastic deformation of raceway. Meanwhile, the maximum stress and the residual plastic deformation for four couples of ball-raceway materials are analyzed. Furthermore, the relationship between the precision loss and the elastic–plastic deformation is studied by the theoretical analysis and experiments. The results show that the position and precision is affected indeed by the contact deformation. The position and precision loss of the nut relative to the screw increases with the increase in the axial load. The results can help to provide the prediction for the precision life of ball screw operating in high-load condition.
Reduced muscle contractile function in elite young soccer players after a short-congested fixture period
Authors: Rojas-Valverde Daniel , Gutiérrez-Vargas Randall , Rodríguez-Montero Alejandro , Pereira Lucas A , Loturco Irineu , Martín-Rodríguez Saúl
Published: December 2018

Soccer is a very popular sport, which has been widely investigated. However, little is known about the effects of congested fixture periods on muscle mechanical responses since access to elite teams during competitive periods is highly restricted. Thus, the goal of this study was to describe the effects of a short-congested fixture period on the neuromechanical parameters related to fatigue and stiffness of elite young soccer players. Nineteen young elite male soccer players (age 17.13 ± 0.51 years, body mass 69.00 ± 1.22 kg, and height 174.09 ± 0.84 cm) participated in the study. The players took part in a preparatory tournament for the FIFA® U-17 World Cup, composed of a total of six matches in 1 week. Pre- and post-tensiomyographic changes were assessed by means of the normalized response speed (Vrn) and other tensiomyographic markers related to muscle fatigue (i.e. maximum radial muscle displacement (Dm) and velocities of contraction at 10% and 90% (V10 and V90) of both legs in two muscles (biceps femoris and rectus femoris). The players presented a possible to likely impairment in Dm, V10, and V90 of both legs and muscles, with the exception of the non-dominant biceps femoris. Vrn did not vary in any condition, although it presented a slight tendency to decrease. The data demonstrated impairments in the tensiomyographic markers in both legs and muscles, with the exception of the non-dominant biceps femoris. A short-congested fixture period in young soccer players leads to a decrease in muscle stiffness due to cumulative fatigue and lack of muscle recovery, this despite the efforts made by the medical staff to counteract the fatigue caused by the games. The use of tensiomyographic markers could be advantageous for rapidly monitoring neuromechanical muscle impairments throughout competitive soccer periods.
Riociguat improves health‐related quality of life for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: results from the phase 4 MOTION study
Authors: Sood Namita , Aranda Alvaro , Platt David , LaRose Anneliese , Kleinjung Frank , O’Brien Gerald
Published: December 2018

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by progressive dyspnea and exercise limitation and is associated with reduced health‐related quality of life. Few clinical studies have evaluated the primary effects of treatment of PAH from the patient perspective. Here, we present the impact of riociguat on patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in treatment‐naïve patients with PAH. MOTION (NCT02191137) was an open‐label, phase 4 trial of riociguat monotherapy in treatment‐naïve patients with PAH. The primary endpoint was the change in total score from baseline to Week 24 in the Living with Pulmonary Hypertension (LPH) questionnaire. The Short Form‐12 Health Survey and Work Limitations Questionnaire 8 were also utilized to assess PROs. Other secondary endpoints included change from baseline in World Health Organization functional class (WHO FC), 6‐min walk distance (6MWD), Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale, and safety. At week 24 (n = 66), the mean (standard deviation [SD]) total LPH score was 37.17 (24.61), for a mean (SD) change from baseline of −10.99 (22.51). At last visit, with week 24 imputed, the mean (SD) total score was 40.63 (28.38), for a mean (SD) change from baseline of −5.40 (27.8) (n = 75; P = 0.0484). Improvement in LPH questionnaire total score was observed by week 4 and was maintained through week 24. Improvements were observed in WHO FC, Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale, and accelerometer‐measured 6MWD at week 24. Treatment with riociguat had a positive impact on PROs in treatment‐naïve patients with PAH and was well tolerated, with a similar safety profile to that observed in placebo‐controlled phase 3 trials.
Comparison Between Modified Latarjet Performed as a Primary or Revision Procedure in Competitive Athletes: A Comparative Study of 100 Patients With a Minimum 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Rossi Luciano A. , Bertona Agustin , Tanoira Ignacio , Maignon Gastón D. , Bongiovanni Santiago L. , Ranalletta Maximiliano
Published: December 2018

Background:

The literature lacks evidence comparing outcomes between the Latarjet procedure performed as a primary procedure versus a revision procedure in competitive athletes.

Purpose:

To compare return to sport, functional outcomes, and complications of the modified Latarjet performed as a primary or revision procedure in competitive athletes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Between June 2008 and June 2015, a total of 100 competitive athletes with recurrent anterior shoulder instability underwent surgery with the congruent arc Latarjet procedure without capsulolabral repair. There were 46 patients with primary repairs and 54 with revisions. Return to sport, range of motion (ROM), the Rowe score, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain in sport activity, and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Recurrences were also evaluated. The postoperative bone block position and consolidation were assessed by computed tomography.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 58 months (range, 24-108 months). A total of 96 patients (96%) returned to competitive sports; 91% returned to their preinjury level of play. No significant difference in shoulder ROM was found between preoperative and postoperative results. The Rowe, VAS, and ASOSS scores showed statistically significant improvements after surgery ( P < .001). The Rowe score increased from a preoperative mean of 43.8 to a postoperative mean of 96.1 ( P < .01). Subjective pain during sports improved from a preoperative VAS score of 3.3 to a postoperative score of 1.2 ( P < .01). The ASOSS score improved significantly from a preoperative mean of 46.3 to a postoperative mean of 88.1 ( P < .001). No significant differences in shoulder ROM and functional scores were found between patients who underwent a primary versus a revision procedure. No recurrence of shoulder dislocation or subluxation was noted. The bone block healed in 91 patients (91%).

Conclusion:

In competitive athletes with recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability, the modified Latarjet procedure produced excellent functional outcomes, with most athletes returning to sport at the same level they had before surgery and without recurrence, regardless of whether the surgery was performed as a primary or a revision procedure.
ERS statement on exercise training and rehabilitation in patients with severe chronic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Grünig Ekkehard , Eichstaedt Christina , Barberà Joan-Albert , Benjamin Nicola , Blanco Isabel , Bossone Eduardo , Cittadini Antonio , Coghlan Gerry , Corris Paul , D'Alto Michele , D'Andrea Antonello , Delcroix Marion , de Man Frances , Gaine Sean , Ghio Stefano , Gibbs Simon , Gumbiene Lina , Howard Luke S. , Johnson Martin , Jurevičienė Elena , Kiely David G. , Kovacs Gabor , MacKenzie Alison , Marra Alberto M. , McCaffrey Noel , McCaughey Paul , Naeije Robert , Olschewski Horst , Pepke-Zaba Joanna , Reis Abílio , Santos Mário , Saxer Stéphanie , Tulloh Robert M. , Ulrich Silvia , Vonk Noordegraaf Anton , Peacock Andrew J.
Published: December 2018

Objectives of this European Respiratory Society task force were to summarise current studies, to develop strategies for future research and to increase availability and awareness of exercise training for pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients.

An evidence-based approach with clinical expertise of the task force members, based on both literature search and face-to-face meetings was conducted. The statement summarises current knowledge and open questions regarding clinical effects of exercise training in PH, training modalities, implementation strategies and pathophysiological mechanisms.

In studies (784 PH patients in total, including six randomised controlled trials, three controlled trials, 10 prospective cohort studies and four meta-analyses), exercise training has been shown to improve exercise capacity, muscular function, quality of life and possibly right ventricular function and pulmonary haemodynamics. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to confirm these data, to investigate the impact on risk profiles and to identify the most advantageous training methodology and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.

As exercise training appears to be effective, cost-efficient and safe, but is scarcely reimbursed, support from healthcare institutions, commissioners of healthcare and research funding institutions is greatly needed. There is a strong need to establish specialised rehabilitation programmes for PH patients to enhance patient access to this treatment intervention.
Fibrillin-2 is a key mediator of smooth muscle extracellular matrix homeostasis during mouse tracheal tubulogenesis
Authors: Yin Wenguang , Kim Hyun-Taek , Wang ShengPeng , Gunawan Felix , Li Rui , Buettner Carmen , Grohmann Beate , Sengle Gerhard , Sinner Debora , Offermanns Stefan , Stainier Didier Y.R.
Published: December 2018

Epithelial tubes, comprised of polarised epithelial cells around a lumen, are crucial for organ function. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying tube formation remain largely unknown. Here, we report on the function of fibrillin (FBN)2, an extracellular matrix (ECM) glycoprotein, as a critical regulator of tracheal tube formation.

We performed a large-scale forward genetic screen in mouse to identify regulators of respiratory organ development and disease. We identifiedFbn2mutants which exhibit shorter and narrowed tracheas as well as defects in tracheal smooth muscle cell alignment and polarity.

We found that FBN2 is essential for elastic fibre formation and Fibronectin accumulation around tracheal smooth muscle cells. These processes appear to be regulated at least in part through inhibition of p38-mediated upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), as pharmacological decrease of p38 phosphorylation or MMP activity partially attenuated theFbn2mutant tracheal phenotypes. Analysis of human tracheal tissues indicates that a decrease in ECM proteins, including FBN2 and Fibronectin, is associated with tracheomalacia.

Our findings provide novel insights into the role of ECM homeostasis in mesenchymal cell polarisation during tracheal tubulogenesis.
The added value of comorbidities in predicting survival in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a multicentre observational study
Authors: Torrisi Sebastiano Emanuele , Ley Brett , Kreuter Michael , Wijsenbeek Marlies , Vittinghoff Eric , Collard Harold R. , Vancheri Carlo
Published: December 2018

Background

The gender–age–physiology (GAP) model was developed to predict the risk of death. Comorbidities are common in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and may impact on survival. We evaluated the ability of comorbidities to improve prediction of survival in IPF patients beyond the variables included in the GAP model.

Methods

We developed a prediction model named TORVAN using data from two independent cohorts. Continuous and point-score prediction models were developed with estimation of full and sparse versions of both. Model discrimination was assessed using the C-index and calibrated by comparing predicted and observed cumulative mortality at 1–5 years.

Results

Discrimination was similar for the sparse continuous model in the derivation and validation cohorts (C-index 71.0versus70.0, respectively), and significantly improved the performance of the GAP model in the validation cohort (increase in C-index of 3.8, p=0.001). In contrast, the sparse point-score model did not perform as well in the validation cohort (C-index 72.5 in the derivation cohortversus68.1 in the validation cohort), but still significantly improved upon the performance of the GAP model (C-index increased by 2.5, p=0.037).

Conclusions

The inclusion of comorbidities in TORVAN models significantly improved the discriminative performance in prediction of risk of death compared to GAP.
GermlineBMP9mutation causes idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Wang Xiao-Jian , Lian Tian-Yu , Jiang Xin , Liu Shao-Fei , Li Su-Qi , Jiang Rong , Wu Wen-Hui , Ye Jue , Cheng Chun-Yan , Du Yao , Xu Xi-Qi , Wu Yan , Peng Fu-Hua , Sun Kai , Mao Yi-Min , Yu Huan , Liang Chen , Shyy John Y-J. , Zhang Shu-Yang , Zhang Xue , Jing Zhi-Cheng
Published: December 2018

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a rare disease with high heritability. Although several predisposing genes have been linked to IPAH, the genetic aetiology remains unknown for a large number of IPAH cases.

Methods

We conducted an exome-wide gene-based burden analysis on two independent case–control studies, including a total of 331 IPAH cases and 10 508 controls. Functional assessments were conducted to analyse the effects of genetic mutations on protein biosynthesis and function.

Results

The gene encoding human bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) was identified as a novel genetic locus displaying exome-wide association with IPAH in the discovery cohort (OR 18.8; p=1.9×10−11). This association was authenticated in the independent replication cohort (p=1.0×10−5). Collectively, the rare coding mutations inBMP9occurred in 6.7% of cases, ranking this gene second toBMPR2, comprising a combined significance of 2.7×10−19(OR 21.2). Intriguingly, the patients withBMP9mutations had lower plasma levels of BMP9 than those without. Functional studies showed that theBMP9mutations led to reduced BMP9 secretion and impaired anti-apoptosis ability in pulmonary arterial endothelial cells.

Conclusion

We identifyBMP9as an IPAH culprit gene.
Bacterial load and defective monocyte-derived macrophage bacterial phagocytosis in biomass smoke-related COPD
Authors: Ghosh Baishakhi , Gaike Akshay H. , Pyasi Kanchan , Brashier Bill , Das Vandana V. , Londhe Jyoti D. , Juvekar Sanjay , Shouche Yogesh S. , Donnelly Louise E. , Salvi Sundeep S. , Barnes Peter J.
Published: December 2018

Lower airway colonisation with species of potentially pathogenic bacteria (PPB) is associated with defective bacterial phagocytosis, in monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) and alveolar macrophages, from tobacco smoke-associated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (S-COPD) subjects. In the developing world, COPD among nonsmokers is largely due to biomass smoke (BMS) exposure; however, little is known about PPB colonisation and its association with impaired innate immunity in these subjects.

We investigated the PPB load (Streptococcus pneumoniae,Haemophilus influenzae,Moraxella catarrhalisandPseudomonas aeruginosa) in BMS-exposed COPD (BMS-COPD) subjects compared with S-COPD and spirometrically normal subjects. We also examined the association between PPB load and phagocytic activity of MDMs and lung function. Induced sputum and peripheral venous blood samples were collected from 18 healthy nonsmokers, 15 smokers without COPD, 16 BMS-exposed healthy subjects, 19 S-COPD subjects and 23 BMS-COPD subjects. PPB load in induced sputum and MDM phagocytic activity were determined using quantitative PCR and fluorimetry, respectively.

Higher bacterial loads ofS. pneumoniae,H. influenzaeandP. aeruginosawere observed in BMS-COPD subjects. Increased PPB load in BMS-exposed subjects was significantly negatively associated with defective phagocytosis in MDMs and spirometric lung function indices (p<0.05).

Increased PPB load in airways of BMS-COPD subjects is inversely associated with defective bacterial phagocytosis and lung function.