bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial clearance and maturation of autophagosomes are compromised in LRRK2 G2019S familial Parkinson’s disease patient fibroblasts
Authors: Korecka Joanna A , Thomas Ria , Christensen Dan P , Hinrich Anthony J , Ferrari Eliza J , Levy Simon A , Hastings Michelle L , Hallett Penelope J , Isacson Ole
Published: June 2019

This study utilized human fibroblasts as a preclinical discovery and diagnostic platform for identification of cell biological signatures specific for the LRRK2 G2019S mutation producing Parkinson’s disease (PD). Using live cell imaging with a pH-sensitive Rosella biosensor probe reflecting lysosomal breakdown of mitochondria, mitophagy rates were found to be decreased in fibroblasts carrying the LRRK2 G2019S mutation compared to cells isolated from healthy subject (HS) controls. The mutant LRRK2 increased kinase activity was reduced by pharmacological inhibition and targeted antisense oligonucleotide treatment, which normalized mitophagy rates in the G2019S cells and also increased mitophagy levels in HS cells. Detailed mechanistic analysis showed a reduction of mature autophagosomes in LRRK2 G2019S fibroblasts, which was rescued by LRRK2 specific kinase inhibition. These findings demonstrate an important role for LRRK2 protein in regulation of mitochondrial clearance by the lysosomes, which is hampered in PD with the G2019S mutation. The current results are relevant for cell phenotypic diagnostic approaches and potentially for stratification of PD patients for targeted therapy.
Very Unusual Sellar/Suprasellar Region Masses: A Review
Authors: Abushamat Layla A , Kerr Janice M , Lopes M Beatriz S , Kleinschmidt-DeMasters Bette K
Published: June 2019

The cause of sellar region masses in large retrospective series is overwhelmingly pituitary adenomas (84.6%), followed by craniopharyngiomas (3.2%), cystic nonneoplastic lesions (2.8%), inflammatory lesions (1.1%), meningiomas (0.94%), metastases (0.6%), and chordomas (0.5%) (1). While other rare lesions were also identified (collectively 6.0%), single unusual entities in the above-cited series numbered <1–2 examples each out of the 4122 cases, underscoring their rarity. We searched our joint files for rare, often singular, sellar/suprasellar masses that we had encountered over the past several decades in our own specialty, tertiary care specialty pituitary center practices. Cases for this review were subjectively selected for their challenging clinical and/or histological features as well as teaching value based on the senior authors' (MBSL, BKD) collective experience with over 7000 examples. We excluded entities deemed to be already well-appreciated by neuropathologists such as mixed adenoma-gangliocytoma, posterior pituitary tumors, metastases, and hypophysitis. We identified examples that, in our judgment, were sufficiently unusual enough to warrant further reporting. Herein, we present 3 diffuse large cell B cell pituitary lymphomas confined to the sellar region with first presentation at that site, 2 sarcomas primary to sella in nonirradiated patients, and 1 case each of granulomatosis with polyangiitis and neurosarcoidosis with first presentations as a sellar/suprasellar mass. Other cases included 1 of chronic lymphocytic leukemia within a gonadotroph adenoma and 1 of ectopic nerve fascicles embedded within a somatotroph adenoma, neither of which impacted patient care. Our objective was to share these examples and review the relevant literature.
Total arch replacement with bilateral extra-anatomical axillary artery bypass and frozen elephant trunk technique for Kommerell’s diverticulum
Authors: Takeyoshi Daisuke , Kitahara Hiroto , Tatsukawa Takamitsu , Kobayashi Daita , Ise Hayato , Nakanishi Sentaro , Kanamori Taro , Ishikawa Natsuya , Kamiya Hiroyuki
Published: June 2019

A Kommerell’s diverticulum is a rare congenital aortic arch anomaly associated with a high rate of aortic rupture or dissection. Therefore, surgical or endovascular repair should be considered early. A 64-year-old man was incidentally found to have an aortic arch anomaly, Kommerell’s diverticulum, with a right aberrant subclavian artery and distal arch aneurysm. Hybrid total arch replacement with bilateral extra-anatomical axillary artery bypass and frozen elephant trunk technique was performed. This particular surgical approach would be a treatment option for any type of Kommerell’s diverticulum.
Biplane Fluoroscopic-Guided Balloon Rhizotomy for Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Technical Note
Authors: Vance Awais Z , El Ahmadieh Tarek Y , Christian Zachary , Aoun Salah G , Barnett Samuel L , White Jonathan A
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The classic percutaneous technique used to cannulate the foramen ovale for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia can place important anatomic structures, such as the distal cervical internal carotid artery, at risk.

OBJECTIVE

To use fixed anatomic landmarks to safely and reliably locate the foramen ovale on anteroposterior (AP) fluoroscopy.

METHODS

Locating the foramen ovale was initially tested using AP fluoroscopy on cadaveric skulls in the neurosurgical simulation lab. Fluoroscopic landmarks were identified and utilized to assist in successfully locating the foramen ovale during percutaneous balloon rhizotomy procedures in patients with trigeminal neuralgia. This technique has been successfully used in multiple patients. In this report, we describe our technique in detail.

RESULTS

The AP fluoroscopy is directed laterally in the coronal plane until a line drawn inferiorly from the lateral orbital rim bisects the inner concavity of the mandibular angle. Fluoroscopy is then directed inferiorly until the top of the petrous ridge bisects the mandibular ramus. The foramen ovale will come into view within the window between the mandibular ramus and hard palate. Two case illustrations are provided.

CONCLUSION

Balloon rhizotomy is a commonly used treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia. Direct visualization of the foramen ovale can reliably be achieved on AP fluoroscopy using specific anatomic landmarks. This technique can be utilized to increase the accuracy and safety of the procedure.
A 3D-Printed Simulator and Teaching Module for Placing S2-Alar-Iliac Screws
Authors: Bow Hansen , Zuckerman Scott L , Griffith Brenton , Lewis Steven , McGruder Chandler , Pruthi Sumit , Parker Scott L
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The concept of the S2-alar-iliac (S2AI) screw was developed approximately one decade ago and has rapidly become an important component of spinal arthrodesis. Two challenges to placing S2AI screws are gaining an intuition for free-hand screw placement trajectory and acquisition of the appropriate radiograph to both guide screw placement and diagnose misplacement.

OBJECTIVE

To present the design and manufacture of an S2AI screw placement simulator and teaching module that addresses both challenges.

METHODS

This simulator involves using a 3D printer to create a life-sized pelvis. Participants first used this print to practice placing free-hand S2AI screws. Then participants used another print to practice taking radiographs showing the posterior superior iliac spine-anterior superior iliac spine corridor (teardrop) view.

RESULTS

The accuracy of screw placement increased from 17 to 80% on the left side and 7 to 100% on the right side. The number of radiographs taken by each participant to obtain the teardrop view decreased after practice with the simulator compared to baseline.

CONCLUSION

Practice with the S2AI simulator led to an improved intuition of an appropriate free-hand S2AI screw trajectory and a decrease in the number of radiographs needed for obtaining the correct diagnostic view.
Augmented Reality in Superficial Temporal Artery to Middle Cerebral Artery Bypass Surgery: Technical Note
Authors: Rychen Jonathan , Goldberg Johannes , Raabe Andreas , Bervini David
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Augmented reality (AR) applied to surgery refers to the virtual superimposition of computer-generated anatomical information on the surgical field. AR assistance in extracranial-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass revascularization surgery has been reported to be a helpful technical adjunct.

OBJECTIVE

To describe our experience of using AR in superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass surgery with the additional implementation of new technical processes to improve the safety and efficacy of the procedure.

METHODS

Data sets from preoperative imaging were loaded and fused in a single 3-dimensional matrix using the neuronavigation system. Anatomical structures of interest (the STA, a selected M4 branch of the MCA, the middle meningeal artery [MMA], and the primary motor cortex [PMC]) were segmented. After the registration of the patient and the operating microscope, the structures of interest were projected into the eyepiece of the microscope and superimposed onto the patient's head, creating the AR surgical field.

RESULTS

AR was shown to be useful in patients undergoing EC-IC bypass revascularization, mostly during the following 4 surgical steps: (1) microsurgical dissection of the donor vessel (STA); (2) tailoring the craniotomy above the recipient vessel (M4 branch of the MCA); (3) tailoring the craniotomy to spare the MMA; and (4) tailoring the craniotomy and the anastomosis to spare the PMC.

CONCLUSION

AR assistance in EC-IC bypass revascularization is a versatile technical adjunct for helping surgeons to ensure the safety and efficacy of the procedure.
Protection of bona fide T follicular memory cells during tissue isolation reveals their persistence, plasticity and functional impact
Authors: Künzli Marco , Schreiner David , Pereboom Tamara , Swarnalekha Nivedya , Lötscher Jonas , Ertuna Yusuf I. , Roux Julien , Geier Florian , Hess Christoph , Taylor Justin T. , King Carolyn G.
Published: June 2019

CD4 memory T cells play an important role in protective immunity and are a key target in vaccine development. Many studies have focused on T central memory (TCM) cells, while the existence and functional significance of T follicular helper (TFH) memory cells is controversial. Here we show that TFH memory cells are highly susceptible to NAD induced cell death (NICD) during isolation from tissues, leading to their under-representation in prior studies. NICD blockade reveals the persistence of abundant TFH memory cells, with high expression of hallmark TFH markers, that persist to at least 400 days after infection, by which time TCM cells are no longer found. Using single cell RNA-seq we demonstrate that TFH memory cells are transcriptionally distinct from TCM cells, maintain stemness and self-renewal gene expression, and, in contrast to TCM cells, are multipotent following recall. Surprisingly, TFH memory cells concurrently express a distinct glycolytic signature similar to trained immune cells, including elevated expression of mTOR, HIF-1 and cAMP regulated genes. Late disruption of glycolysis/ICOS signaling leads to TFH memory cell depletion concomitant with decreased splenic plasma cells and circulating antibody titers, demonstrating both unique homeostatic regulation of memory TFH and their sustained function during the memory phase of the immune response. These results highlight the metabolic heterogeneity underlying distinct memory T cell subsets and establish TFH memory cells as an attractive target for the induction of long-lived adaptive immunity.

HIGHLIGHTS

Cell death during isolation from the tissue prevents the full recovery of TFH memory cells

TFH memory cells are transcriptionally distinct from TCM cells and maintain a broader recall capacity

TFH memory cells are maintained in the absence of antigen but require ICOS signaling and glycolysis

TFH memory cells support late phase antibody production by splenic plasma cells
Accurate assembly of the olive baboon (Papio anubis) genome using long-­read and Hi-C data
Authors: Batra Sanjit Singh , Levy-Sakin Michal , Robinson Jacqueline , Guillory Joseph , Durinck Steffen , Kwok Pui-Yan , Cox Laura A. , Seshagiri Somasekar , Song Yun S. , Wall Jeffrey D.
Published: June 2019

Besides macaques, baboons are the most commonly used nonhuman primate in biomedical research. Despite this importance, the genomic resources for baboons are quite limited. In particular, the current baboon reference genome Panu_3.0 is a highly fragmented, reference-guided (i.e., not fully de novo) assembly, and its poor quality inhibits our ability to conduct downstream genomic analyses. Here we present a truly de novo genome assembly of the olive baboon (Papio anubis) that uses data from several recently developed single-molecule technologies. Our assembly, Panubis1.0, has an N50 contig size of ~1.46 Mb (as opposed to 139 Kb for Panu_3.0), and has single scaffolds that span each of the 20 autosomes and the X chromosome. We highlight multiple lines of evidence (including Bionano Genomics data, pedigree linkage information, and linkage disequilibrium data) suggesting that there are several large assembly errors in Panu_3.0, which have been corrected in Panubis1.0.
A multimodal framework for detecting direct and indirect gene-gene interactions from large expression compendium
Authors: Zhang Lu , Chen Jia Xing , Li Shuai Cheng
Published: June 2019

The fast accumulation of high-throughput gene expression data provides us an unprecedented opportunity to understand the gene interactions and prioritize disease candidate genes. However, these data are typically noisy and highly heterogeneous, complicating their use in constructing large expression compendium. Recent studies suggest that the collective expression pattern can be better modeled by Gaussian mixtures. This motivates our present work, which applies a Multimodal framework (MMF) to depict the gene expression profiles. MMF introduces two new statistics: Multimodal Mutual Information and Multimodal Direct Information. Through extensive simulations, MMF outperforms other approaches for detecting gene co-expressions or gene regulatory interactions, regardless of the level of noise or strength of interactions. In the principal component analysis for very large collections of expression data, the use of MMI enables more biologically meaningful spaces to be extracted than the use of Pearson correlation. The practical use of MMF is further demonstrated with three biological applications: 1. Prioritizing KIF1A as the candidate causal gene of hereditary spastic paraparesis from familial exome sequencing data; 2. Detecting ANK2 as the ‘hot genes’ for autism spectrum disorders, derived from exome sequencing family based study; 3. Predicting the microRNA target genes based on both sequence and expression information.
Human reproductive system microbiomes exhibited significantly different heterogeneity scaling with gut microbiome, but the intra-system scaling is invariant
Authors: Ma Sam
Published: June 2019

Maintaining sexual reproduction in a highly competitive world is still one of the major mysteries of biology given the apparently high efficiency of asexual reproduction. Co-evolutionary theories such as the Red Queen hypothesis would suggest that the microbiomes in human reproductive systems, specifically the microbiomes contained in semen and vaginal fluids, should reach some level of homogeneity thanks to arguably the most conspicuous microbiome transmission between two sexes. The long-term sexual coevolution should favor the dynamic homogeneity or stability, which should also be beneficial for sexual reproduction such as sperm survival or fertilization on physiological/ecological time scale. We present a piece of quantitative evidence in the form of microbial community spatial heterogeneity to support the stability notion by analyzing three big datasets of the human vaginal, semen and gut microbiome. Methodologically, we applied a recent community-level extension to the classic Taylor’s power law (Taylor 1961, 1988:Nature), which reached the rare status of ecological law and has found applications beyond biology. The power law analysis revealed that human vaginal and semen microbiomes exhibited the same scaling parameter size in their community spatial (inter-individual) heterogeneities, while both exhibited significantly different heterogeneity scaling parameter with the human gut microbiome. Both ecological and evolutionary theories, such as hologenome/holobiont and Red Queen, even first principle, would predict that microbiome transmissions between two sexes should have homogenizing effects on the composition and stability of the microbiomes in human reproductive systems.

Importance

Maintaining sexual reproduction in a highly competitive world is still one of the major mysteries of biology given the apparently high efficiency of asexual reproduction. Co-evolutionary theories such as the Red-Queen hypothesis would suggest that the microbiomes in human reproductive systems, specifically the microbiomes contained in semen and vaginal fluids, should reach some level of homogeneity thanks to arguably the most conspicuous microbiome transmission between two sexes. The long-term sexual co-evolution should favor the dynamic homogeneity or stability, which should also be beneficial for sexual reproduction such as sperm survival or fertilization on physiological/ecological time scale. We present a piece of quantitative evidence in the form of microbial community spatial heterogeneity to support the stability notion by analyzing three big datasets of the human vaginal, semen and gut microbiome. Both ecological and evolutionary theories would predict that microbiome transmissions between two sexes should have homogenizing effects in human reproductive systems.
Maternal glucocorticoids promote offspring growth without inducing oxidative stress or shortening telomeres in wild red squirrels
Authors: Dantzer Ben , van Kesteren Freya , Westrick Sarah E. , Boutin Stan , McAdam Andrew G. , Lane Jeffrey E. , Gillespie Robert , Majer Ariana , Haussmann Mark , Monaghan Pat
Published: June 2019

Elevations in glucocorticoid levels (GCs) in breeding females may induce adaptive shifts in offspring life histories. Offspring produced by mothers with elevated GCs may be better prepared to face harsh environments where a faster pace of life is beneficial. We examined how experimentally elevated GCs in pregnant or lactating North American red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) affected offspring postnatal growth, structural size, oxidative stress levels (two antioxidants and oxidative protein damage) in three different tissues (blood, heart, liver), and liver telomere lengths. We predicted that offspring from mothers treated with GCs would grow faster but would also have higher levels of oxidative stress and shorter telomeres, which may predict reduced longevity. Offspring from mothers treated with GCs during pregnancy were 8.3% lighter around birth but grew (in body mass) 17.0% faster than those from controls, whereas offspring from mothers treated with GCs during lactation grew 34.8% slower than those from controls and did not differ in body mass around birth. Treating mothers with GCs during pregnancy or lactation did not alter the oxidative stress levels or telomere lengths of their offspring. Fast-growing offspring from any of the treatment groups did not have higher oxidative stress levels or shorter telomere lengths, indicating that offspring that grew faster early in life did not exhibit oxidative costs after this period of growth. Our results indicate that elevations in maternal GCs may induce plasticity in offspring growth without long-term oxidative costs to the offspring that might result in a shortened lifespan.

Summary Statement

We show that experimental increases in glucocorticoids in breeding female North American red squirrels affects offspring postnatal growth but not levels of oxidative damage and antioxidants or telomere lengths.
Tonotopic and multisensory organization of the mouse dorsal inferior colliculus revealed by two-photon imaging
Authors: Wong Aaron B. , Borst J. Gerard G.
Published: June 2019

The dorsal (DCIC) and lateral cortices (LCIC) of the inferior colliculus are major targets of the auditory and non-auditory cortical areas, suggesting a role in complex multimodal information processing. However, relatively little is known about their functional organization. We utilized in vivo two-photon Ca2+ imaging in awake mice expressing GCaMP6s in GABAergic or non-GABAergic neurons in the IC to investigate their spatial organization. We found different classes of temporal response, which we confirmed with simultaneous juxtacellular electrophysiology. Both GABAergic and non-GABAergic neurons showed spatial microheterogeneity in their temporal responses. In contrast, a robust reversed rostromedial-caudolateral gradient of frequency tuning was conserved between the two groups, and even among the subclasses. This, together with the existence of a subset of neurons sensitive to spontaneous movements, provides functional evidence for redefining the border between DCIC and LCIC.
Structural knowledge or X-ray damage? A case study on xylose isomerase illustrating both
Authors: Taberman Helena , Bury Charles S. , van der Woerd Mark J. , Snell Edward H. , Garman Elspeth F.
Published: June 2019

Xylose isomerase (XI) is an industrially important metalloprotein studied for decades. Its reaction mechanism has been postulated to involve movement of the catalytic metal cofactor to several different conformations. Here, a dose-dependent approach was used to investigate the radiation damage effects on XI and their potential influence on the reaction mechanism interpreted from the X-ray derived structures. Radiation damage is still one of the major challenges for X-ray diffraction experiments and causes both global and site-specific damage. In this study, consecutive high-resolution data sets from a single XI crystal from the same wedge were collected at 100 K and the progression of radiation damage was tracked over increasing dose (0.13–3.88 MGy). The catalytic metal and its surrounding amino acid environment experience a build-up of free radicals, and the results show radiation-damage-induced structural perturbations ranging from an absolute metal positional shift to specific residue motions in the active site. The apparent metal movement is an artefact of global damage and the resulting unit-cell expansion, but residue motion appears to be driven by the dose. Understanding and identifying radiation-induced damage is an important factor in accurately interpreting the biological conclusions being drawn.
A threefold interpenetrating two-dimensional zinc(II) coordination polymer: synthesis, crystal structure and selective luminescence sensing properties
Authors: Pan Chen-Dong , Wang Jun , Xu Ju-Qin , Zhang Kang-Feng , Wang Xiao-Wan
Published: June 2019

The Fe3+ ion is the most important element in environmental systems and plays a fundamental role in biological processes. Iron deficiency can result in diseases and highly selective and sensitive detection of trace Fe3+ has become a hot topic. A novel two-dimensional ZnII coordination framework, poly[[μ-4,4′-bis(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)diphenyl ether-κ2
N
3:N
3′](μ-4,4′-sulfonyldibenzoato-κ2
O:O′)zinc(II)], [Zn(C14H8O6S)(C20H18N4O)]
n
or [Zn(SDBA)(BMIOPE)]
n
, (I), where H2SDBA is 4,4′-sulfonyldibenzoic acid and BMIOPE is 4,4′-bis(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)diphenyl ether, has been prepared and characterized by IR, elemental analysis, thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis, the latter showing that the coordination polymer exhibits a threefold interpenetrating two-dimensional 44-sql network. In addition, it displays a highly selective and sensitive sensing for Fe3+ ions in aqueous solution.
Understanding how managers institutionalise sustainability reporting
Authors: Farooq Muhammad Bilal , de Villiers Charl
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how sustainability reporting managers (SRMs) institutionalise sustainability reporting within organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 35 semi-structured interviews with SRMs in Australia and New Zealand were analysed using an institutional work perspective.

Findings

SRMs’ institutional work can be categorised into four phases with each phase representing a different approach to sustainability reporting. Organisations transition from phase one to four as they achieve a higher level of maturity and a deeper embedding and routinisation of sustainability reporting. These include educating and advocacy work undertaken by engaging with managers (phase one), transitioning to a decentralised sustainability reporting process (phase two), transitioning to leaner, focussed, materiality driven sustainability reporting (phase three), and using sustainability key performance indicators and materiality assessment reports for planning, decision-making, goal setting, performance appraisal, and incentives (phase four). However, SRMs face challenges including their inexperience, limited time and resources, lack of management commitment to sustainability reporting and low external interest in sustainability reporting. The study identifies ten reasons why material issues are not always (adequately) disclosed.

Practical implications

This study recommends more training and development for SRMs, and that regulation be considered to mandate the disclosure of the materiality assessments in sustainability reports.

Originality/value

This research extends the existing literature examining how sustainability reports are prepared and sheds further light on how a materiality assessment is undertaken. The study identifies ten reasons for the non-disclosure of material matters, including but not limited to, legitimacy motives. Researchers can use these reasons to refine their methods for evaluating published sustainability reports. At a theoretical level, the study provides four observations that institutional researchers should consider when examining forms of institutional work.
Getting more than money through online crowdfunding
Authors: Macht Stephanie , Chapman Geoffrey
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Many businesses invest significant resources to develop human, social and psychological capital, yet Crowdfunding (CF) activities have the potential to build all of these non-financial forms of capital at the same time as raising finance. The purpose of this paper is to explore the non-financial forms of capital that entrepreneurs and businesses using online CF activities can gain from their backers without having to ask for it.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used thematic, qualitative analysis to explore the comments and queries that crowdfunders posted on the publicly visible message board of individual CF projects on Kickstarter, one of the world’s leading crowdfunding platforms (CFPs).

Findings

Fund-seekers can gain more than money from crowdfunders: they can enhance their own human capital (e.g. knowledge of the viability of the project), social capital (e.g. the development of a bonding relationship) and psychological capital (e.g. self-efficacy and resilience) by effectively interpreting unsolicited comments and questions.

Research limitations/implications

This study is based on typed comments on CFP message boards, which limits insights into underlying reasons and motivations. However, the qualitative analysis of message board comments demonstrates how this type of data can be utilised to explore crucial aspects of CF that have to date been neglected.

Practical implications

Comments from many crowdfunders can provide useful information to fund-seeking entrepreneurs and businesses, although some of it may require interpretation.

Originality/value

The opportunity for fund-seekers to gain non-financial capital from crowdfunders, without having to ask for it, has not previously been explicitly considered in the field.
SDRE-based high performance feedback control for nonlinear mechatronic systems
Authors: Stepien Slawomir Jan , Superczynska Paulina , Dobrowolski Damian , Dobrowolski Jerzy
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present modeling and control of a nonlinear mechatronic system. To solve the control problem, the modified state-dependent Riccati equation (SDRE) method is applied. The control problem is designed and analyzed using the nonlinear feedback gain strategy for the infinite time horizon problem.

Design/methodology/approach

As a new contribution, this paper deals with state-dependent parametrization as an effective modeling of the mechatronic system and shows how to modify the classical form of the SDRE method to reduce computational effort during feedback gain computation. The numerical example compares described methods and confirms usefulness of the proposed technique.

Findings

The proposed control technique can ensure optimal dynamic response, reducing computational effort during control law computation. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified via numerical simulation.

Originality/value

The authors introduced an innovative approach to the well-known SDRE control methodology and settled their research in the newest literature coverage for this issue.
Analysis of axial flux motor performance for traction motor applications
Authors: Młot Adrian , Łukaniszyn Marian
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Analysis of test data monitored for a number of electric machines from the low volume production line can lead to useful conclusions. The purpose of this paper is to trace the machine performance to find quality-related issues and/or identify assembly process ones. In this paper, the monitoring of experimental data is related to the axial flux motor (AFM) used in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and in electric vehicle (EV) traction motors in the global automobile market.

Design/methodology/approach

Extensive data analyses raised questions like what could be the causes of possible performance deterioration of the AFM and how many electric motors may not pass requirements during operation tests. In small and medium research units of AFM for HEV or EV, engineers came across a number of serious issues that must be resolved. A number of issues can be eliminated by implementing methods for reducing the number of failing AFMs. For example, improving the motor assembly precision leads to reduction of the machine parameters deterioration.

Findings

Assembly tolerances on electric motor characteristics should be investigated during motor design. The presented measurements can be usable and can point out the weakest parts of the motor that can be a reason for the reduced efficiency and/or lifetime of the AFM. Additionally, the paper is addressed to electric motor engineers designing and/or investigating electric AFMs.

Originality/value

Performance of AFM was monitored for a number of identical motors from low volume production line. All tested motors were operated continuously for a long period of time and the tests were repeated every few weeks for half a year to check the reliability of motor design and indicate how much the motor parameters may change. The final results point how many motors fail the requirements of motor performance. A few batches of AFM were selected for testing. Each batch represents a different size (nominal power) of the same type of AFM.
Analysis of axial flux permanent magnet generator
Authors: Gołębiowski Lesław , Gołębiowski Marek , Mazur Damian , Smoleń Andrzej
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare the methods of calculating the parameters of air-cored stator flux permanent magnet generator and to compare these results with the measurements of the designed and manufactured generator. The generator is to be designed for operation in a wind power plant.

Design/methodology/approach

An analytical method and 2D and 3D finite element methods (FEMs) were used to calculate the parameters of the coreless permanent magnet axial generator. The analytical method and 2D FEM were applied to individual cross-sections through the air gap of the machine. After the design and construction of the generator and measuring station, the results of calculations and measurements were compared.

Findings

The results of investigated calculation methods and measurements were found to be mutually compatible. Analytical methods and 2D FEM required proper interpretation of the results when comparing them with the 3D FEM. The results of the measurements and calculations showed the usefulness of the generator for operation in a wind power plant.

Originality/value

Full comparison of results of 2D and 3D calculations with the results of the measurements on the machine model confirmed the usefulness of fast 2D methods for the analysis of coreless generators. The results differed by the effects of leakage inductance of windings’ front connections. The application of an axial generator designed with the described methods in a wind turbine showed its proper operation.
Nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit of the hybrid magnetic bearing
Authors: Wajnert Dawid , Tomczuk Bronislaw
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create a reliable nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit (NMEC) of the hybrid magnetic bearing (HMB). Commonly used magnetic equivalent circuits of HMB omit a saturation effect of the magnetic material as well as the leakage and fringing flux. It results in imprecise modelling of the magnetic field distribution. On the other hand, only 3D finite element analysis (FEA) can be used to precisely simulate the magnetic field in this type of the magnetic bearing. The proposed NMEC incorporates the saturation effect of the magnetic material, as well as the leakage and fringing flux.

Design/methodology/approach

The magnetic equivalent circuit of presented HMB is proposed to obtain a reliable model that ensures short calculation time. Developed NMEC incorporates the phenomena as the saturation effect, as well as the leakage and fringing flux. The reluctance of the air gap that includes the fringing flux was calculated using 3D FEA. Kirchhoffs’ laws were used to create a set of nonlinear equations that were iteratively solved by Broyden’s method.

Findings

Incorporating into NMEC of the HMB a saturation effect of the magnetic material, as well as the leakage and fringing flux, resulted in the accurate model that was in good agreement with 3 D finite element model and the real object. The developed NMEC offers the calculation time in the range of miliseconds, therefore can be successfully used in the engineering design instead of the FEM.

Originality/value

Presented NMEC can be considered as a fundamental model that can be successfully used for accurate and fast simulation of the HMB. Proposed NMEC includes considerable factors that decide about the model accuracy such as the saturation effect of the ferromagnetic material and the leakage and fringing flux. The developed NMEC can be used in the optimization procedures and for simulations of dynamic responses.
Evaluation of vernacular and new housing indoor comfort conditions in cold climate – a field survey in eastern Turkey
Authors: Kürüm Varolgüneş Fatma
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare vernacular and new houses in terms of indoor occupant satisfaction and thermal and visual comfort in a region with cold climatic conditions. In line with the data obtained, the contribution of passive design techniques to comfort in housing indoor will be revealed.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the comfort conditions to be provided in a residence were determined and evaluated in Bingol with the help of questionnaires applied on vernacular and new houses. The information gathered from the occupants and the survey study was mainly designed for three purposes: (i) acquiring general information about houses; (ii) acquiring general information about occupants; and (iii) inquiring about the physical comfort satisfaction of the occupants (thermal comfort and visual comfort).

Findings

Although the average occupant satisfaction in terms of thermal performance in vernacular houses in summer and winter is 3.91, this average is 2.01 for new houses. The average of the general visual comfort of occupants in vernacular houses is 3.59, whereas this rate is 2.63 in new houses. According to the data obtained, occupant satisfaction was higher in vernacular houses than in new houses. In general, the new settlement area is designed and positioned independently of climate and environmental conditions. This situation increases the need to use mechanical systems to provide indoor thermal comfort conditions. The increase in the need for mechanical systems leads to a significant increase in energy expenditures, as well as deterioration of health conditions in places.

Research limitations/implications

To ensure occupant satisfaction, indoor thermal comfort conditions and healthy environments, vernacular houses should be an example for the design and building of new houses in terms of orientation, environment relations, space dimensions and space usage in accordance with the character of the region and material selection.

Originality/value

There has not been a serious research on bioclimatic, socioeconomic and cultural sustainability of the vernacular architecture of Bingol. Therefore, this region has been preferred as the study area.
Complexity-based task allocation in human-robot collaborative assembly
Authors: Malik Ali Ahmad , Bilberg Arne
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Over the past years, collaborative robots have been introduced as a new generation of industrial robotics working alongside humans to share the workload. These robots have the potential to enable human–robot collaboration (HRC) for flexible automation. However, the deployment of these robots in industrial environments, particularly in assembly, still comprises several challenges, of which one is skills-based tasks distribution between humans and robots. With ever-decreasing product life cycles and high-mix low volume production, the skills-based task distribution is to become a frequent activity. This paper aims to present a methodology for tasks distribution between human and robot in assembly work by complexity-based tasks classification.

Design/methodology/approach

The assessment method of assembly tasks is based on the physical features of the components and associated task description. The attributes that can influence assembly complexity for automation are presented. Physical experimentation with a collaborative robot and work with several industrial cases helped to formulate the presented method.

Findings

The method will differentiate the tasks with higher complexity of handling, mounting, human safety and part feeding from low-complexity tasks, thereby simplifying collaborative automation in HRC scenario. Such structured method for tasks distribution in HRC can significantly reduce deployment and changeover times.

Originality/value

Assembly attributes affecting HRC automation are identified. The methodology is presented for evaluating tasks for assigning to the robot and creating a work–load balance forming a human–robot work team. Finally, an assessment tool for simplified industrial deployment.
Quadrant and gap analysis of required and exhibited quantity surveyors’ competencies
Authors: Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Ogunsemi Deji Rufus , Adeyelu Morenike
Published: June 2019

Purpose

In their delivery of service, quantity surveyors are not in any way protected against threats and changes in their operating environment as a result of globalisation and continuous change in demand of clients. This research therefore examined the current and important areas of competencies of Nigerian quantity surveyors in their quest to continue to provide value for money for their clients.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected through administration of questionnaires on quantity surveyors that are members of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS). Mean item score (MIS) was used to rank required and exhibited competencies while gap and quadrant analyses were employed to evaluate their importance and proficiency level.

Findings

Core competencies required of quantity surveyors are costing of construction works; valuation; estimating and tendering; and procurement management while valuation; estimating and tendering; and costing of construction works are top three competencies currently exhibited. There is significant difference in the level of importance of the competencies areas compared to their exhibition by quantity surveyors.

Originality/value

It was noted that some important areas of competencies are not currently exhibited by quantity surveyors in the study area, there is therefore the need for personal and collective continuous development through workshops, conferences and seminars that will enhance the identified competencies areas. Training of undergraduates and retraining of practicing quantity surveyors is also essential to inculcate competencies that are not currently exhibited. This will benefit quantity surveyors and bodies concerned with the regulation of the profession in their quest for better service delivery.
Corporate social responsibility and person-centered care: a scoping review
Authors: Buttigieg Sandra C. , Tomaselli Gianpaolo , Byers Vivienne , Cassar Maria , Tjerbo Trond , Rosano Aldo
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The aim of this paper was to explore the linkage between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and person-centered care (PCC). The scope of the review was, therefore, to identify whether – as a result of such linkage – CSR may be a potential vehicle for delivering PCC within health-care organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were retrieved by searching multiple keywords on PubMed, Medline and Scopus databases with inclusion/exclusion criteria based on years of publication from 2001 to 2018, language, no geographic restrictions, paper focus, research and document types. A total of 56 articles (N = 56) were selected and reviewed. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify and compare the main features of PCC and CSR.

Findings

The findings revealed that while CSR and PCC are interrelated, CSR features are not being exploited in their entirety in formalizing PCC as part of the CSR strategy. In particular, the two salient CSR features explicitly referred to in conjunction with explicit PCC characteristics are quality of care and health communication. Furthermore, patients’ rights and dignity were the leading implicit CSR features mentioned in conjunction with both explicit and implicit PCC characteristics.

Research limitations/implications

Subjectivity of researchers, limited number of databases and publication types included are the main limitations of this research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper analyzing CSR and PCC in an interrelated way.
Perceptions of organizational readiness for training and implementation of clinic-based community health workers
Authors: Lee Lily , Montgomery Susanne , Gamboa-Maldonado Thelma , Nelson Anna , Belliard Juan Carlos
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess perceptions of organizational readiness to integrate clinic-based community health workers (cCHWs) between traditional CHWs and potential cCHW employers and their staff in order to inform training and implementation models.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional mixed-methods approach evaluated readiness to change perceptions of traditional CHWs and potential employers and their staff. Quantitative methods included a printed survey for CHWs and online surveys in Qualtrics for employers/staff. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Qualitative data were collected via focus groups and key informant interviews. Data were analyzed with NVIVO 11 Plus software.

Findings

CHWs and employers and staff were statistically different in their perceptions on appropriateness, management support and change efficacy (p<0.0001, 0.0134 and 0.0020, respectively). Yet, their differences lay within the general range of agreement for cCHW integration (4=somewhat agree to 6=strongly agree). Three themes emerged from the interviews which provided greater insight into their differences and commonalities: perspectives on patient-centered care, organizational systems and scope of practice, and training, experiences and expectations.

Originality/value

Community health workers serve to fill the gaps in the social and health care systems. They are an innovation as an emerging workforce in health care settings. Health care organizations need to learn how to integrate paraprofessionals such as cCHWs. Understanding readiness to adopt the integration of cCHWs into clinical settings will help prepare systems through trainings and adapting organizational processes that help build capacity for successful and sustainable integration.
The influence of team psychological safety on team knowledge creation: a study with French and American engineering teams
Authors: Cauwelier Peter , Ribiere Vincent Michel , Bennet Alex
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of team psychological safety and team learning on the creation of team knowledge. When teams engage in learning, their interactions contribute to improved performance. Very little research evaluates whether the learning also creates new knowledge related to the task or the team itself.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model is evaluated through a mixed method research design around a team problem-solving experiment. Task- and team-related team mental models are elicited using concept mapping and questionnaires and are measured before and after the experiment. The model is evaluated in engineering teams from the USA and France.

Findings

The findings confirm the proposed model; team psychological safety and team learning positively impact team knowledge creation for both task- and team-related knowledge.

Originality/value

This research has theoretical, methodological and practical implications. The team psychological safety model is expanded, team learning is evaluated from the team interactions instead of members’ self-assessments and team knowledge is measured dynamically. Developing team psychological safety and creating team learning opportunities positively impacts the team’s knowledge.
The effect of family teaching on depression, anxiety and stress in caregivers of patients received electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Shamsaei Farshid , Kazemian Hassan , Cheraghi Fatemeh , Farhadian Maryam
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effect of the planned pre-electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) family teaching on depression, anxiety and stress of caregivers of patients with mental disorders receiving ECT.

Design/methodology/approach

In this quasi-experimental study, 130 participants were randomized allocated into intervention or control groups. The planned family teaching program consisted of four 90 min sessions held during four weeks. Assessments occurred at pre-intervention (one week before the first session), and post-intervention (one months after the four session). Data were collected using demographic questionnaire and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Mean comparisons were performed using Student’s t-test while effect sizes were estimated by Cohen’s d coefficient. The significance level was considered less than 0.05.

Findings

The mean scores of the depression, anxiety and stress levels in the intervention group were significantly reduced compared to the control group (p=0.001).

Originality/value

The family pre-ECT teaching intervention and counseling decreased the depression, anxiety and stress level of family caregivers of patients with mental disorders receiving ECT and the maintenance of other favorable conditions at baseline. These results suggest that even a short-term educational intervention for family members of patients received ECT can improve emotional outcomes of treatment in the family.