bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute vertigo and sensorineural hearing loss from infarction of the vestibulocochlear nerve
Authors: Byun Seonghwan , Lee Ji Ye , Kim Bo Gyung , Hong Hyun Sook
Published: October 2018

Rationale:

Acute unilateral audiovestibulopathy is a common neurotological syndrome. Differential diagnoses of acute unilateral audiovestibulopathy include viral infection, vascular insults, and tumors. Regarding vascular causes, ischemic stroke in the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) territory is known to be the leading cause of acute audiovestibular loss. Previous reports of AICA infarction with audiovestibulopathy failed to demonstrate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-positive vestibulocochlear infarctions. Only 1 report demonstrated acute infarction involving the vestibulocochlear nerve on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI)-MRI.

Patient concerns:

A 67 year old man complained of sudden left hearing loss and vertigo. The patient showed left horizontal gaze-evoked nystagmus (GEN) and the head impulse test (HIT) was positive on the left side. Videonystagmography revealed spontaneous rebound nystagmus toward the right side; head-shaking nystagmus toward the right side. The patient presented with left caloric paresis (20.1%). Pure tone audiometry (PTA) revealed severe sensorineural hearing loss on the left side.

Diagnosis:

MRI of temporal bone showed multifocal acute infarctions in the left inferior cerebellum. Moreover, images revealed tiny infarctions along the left vestibulocochlear nerve and the cochlea, implying acute vestibulocochlear nerve and labyrinthine infarction. There was no evidence of steno-occlusion of major cerebral vessels on MR angiography.

Interventions:

Immediate stroke management was done.

Outcomes:

Neurological symptoms gradually improved after 3 to 5 days.

Lessons:

We present a case illustrating a rare but significant finding of vestibulocochlear nerve infarction revealed by DWI-MRI. Prompt imaging protocol enabled the detection of significant findings in this patient with acute unilateral audiovestibulopathy. Clinicians should be aware of the vestibulocochlear nerve and labyrinth on MRI in patients with cerebellar stroke.
A pilot study to standardize and peer-review shift handoffs in an academic internal medicine residency program
Authors: Krowl Lauren , Gudlavalleti Aashrai , Patel Arpan , Panebianco Lauren , Kosters Michael , Dhamoon Amit S.
Published: October 2018

With increased oversight of residency work hours, there has been an increase in shift handoffs, which are prone to medical errors. To date, there are no evidence-based recommendations on essential elements of shift handoffs. We implemented a standardized shift-handoff rubric at an academic medicine residency program. Compliance, resident/faculty perceptions, and surrogate markers of patient safety were measured.

Shift-handoff documents were collected January-February 2016 (control) April-June 2016 (intervention). Signouts were scored based on inclusion of seven elements: Daily events, Overnight events, Code status, Follow up tasks, If/then statements, ‘sick or stable’ and History present illness. The mnemonic ‘DOCFISH’ was taught in a grand-rounds forum then embedded into a shift-handoff tool within our electronic health record (EHR). Senior residents were assigned to supervise/provide feedback on shift handoffs from April-June 2016. Faculty and resident perceptions regarding quality of shift handoffs was measured by the annual ACGME (Accreditation Council Graduate Medical Education) program survey.

Patient safety was measured by number of rapid-response teams (RRT) initiated for unstable vital signs. Handoffs were 74% complete in intervention group and 60% in control group (p < .0001). Median DOCFISH features present in patients that required RRT was 3 of 7 whereas, total post-intervention group had 5 of 7 (p < .001). ‘Daily events’ and ‘follow -up tasks’ were less frequent in patients that required RRT (20%, 67% respectively, p < .001).

Academic medical centers can implement standardized shift handoffs by embedding high-yield information in an EHR with peer-review. Information during shift changes that may have significant improvement on patient safety includes: ‘daily events’ and ‘follow -up tasks.’
Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukemia With Diffuse Periosteal Reaction of Bilateral Lower Extremities
Authors: Doherty Erin E. , Schallert Erica K. , Stevens Alexandra M. , Punia Jyotinder N. , Foster Jennifer H.
Published: October 2018

We report the case of a 3-year-old girl diagnosed with acute megakaryoblastic leukemia, who presented after >1 year of bilateral leg pain. At times the pain was severe enough to prevent ambulation, prompting visits to her primary care provider. However, it was not until acute respiratory failure occurred with subsequent hospitalization in the pediatric intensive care unit that severe anemia and thrombocytopenia were discovered and the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia was made. Bilateral lower extremity swelling was noted on admission and radiographs showed diffusely abnormal appearance of the long bones of her lower extremities with periosteal reaction and echogenic debris in the subperiosteal space, thought to represent leukemic cells. This case highlights the importance of recognizing atypical signs and symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome progressing to acute leukemia in the context of abnormal bone pain and radiographic changes.
Osteosarcoma in a Child Below 2 Years of Age: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Pascoe Edward M. , Free Matthew , Mackie Peter S. , Donnan Leo , O’Sullivan Mark , Sullivan Michael J. , Heath John A.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Osteosarcoma in children below the age of 5 is extremely rare.

Observation:

We report on a previously well 14-month-old male infant, who presented with a reluctance to weight-bear on his right leg and had an associated limp. Plain imaging and a magnetic resonance imaging scan demonstrated a lytic lesion in the right distal femur. An open surgical biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of osteosarcoma. There was no significant family history of cancer and genetic screening for Li-Fraumeni syndrome was negative.

Conclusions:

This case highlights the importance of timely consideration of osteosarcoma in an infant, when the clinical presentation and medical imaging are consistent with that diagnosis.
Pregnancy, Penile-anal Sex, and Other Sexual Behaviors in the United States, 2011–2015
Authors: Leichliter Jami S. , Aral Sevgi O.
Published: October 2018

We used the US national survey data to examine sexual behavior by pregnancy status and found that, overall, pregnant women did not differ from nonpregnant women in penile-anal sex and associated condom use. Compared with nonpregnant women, pregnant women had lower or similar reports of other sexual behaviors.
Tissue Expander Complications Do Not Preclude a Second Successful Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Poppler Louis H. , Mundschenk Minh-Bao , Linkugel Andrew , Zubovic Ema , Dolen Utku C. , Myckatyn Terence M.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most common method of breast reconstruction in the United States, but the outcomes of subsequent implant-based reconstruction after a tissue expander complication are rarely studied. The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term incidence of implant loss in patents with a previous tissue expander complication.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of the long-term outcomes of all patients with tissue expander complications at a large academic medical center from 2003 to 2013. Patients with subsequent tissue expander or implant complications were compared to those with no further complications to assess risk factors for additional complications or reconstructive failure.

Results:

One hundred sixty-two women were included in this study. The mean follow-up period was 8.3 ± 3.1 years. Forty-eight women (30 percent) went on to undergo a second tissue expander or implant placement. They did not differ from women who went on to autologous reconstruction or no further reconstruction. Of these, 34 women (71 percent) had no further complications and 38 women (79 percent) had a successful implant-based reconstruction at final follow-up. There were no patient or surgical factors significantly associated with a second complication or implant loss.

Conclusions:

Following tissue expander complications, it is reasonable to offer women a second attempt at tissue expansion and implant placement. This study demonstrates that long-term success rates are high, and there are no definitive patient or surgical factors that preclude a second attempt at implant-based breast reconstruction.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, III.
Effect of Endogenous Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Flap Surgical Delay in a Rat Flap Model
Authors: Jiang Zhenmin , Li Xiucun , Chen Miao , Lu Laijin , Gong Xu
Published: October 2018

Background:

Experimental evidence suggests that endogenous vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may play a major role in the surgical delay phenomenon. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of endogenous VEGF on flap surgical delay.

Methods:

A total of 82 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats with an average weight of 330 g were used for these experiments. These experiments were then conducted in two parts. In part 1, 32 rats were used to assess the effectiveness of VEGF inhibitor through Western blot assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In part 2, 50 rats were used to investigate the effect of VEGF on flap surgical delay by means of arteriography, histologic analysis, and flap viability.

Results:

The VEGF protein inhibition ratio reached the maximum (approximately 91.6 percent) in 5 to 7 days. The number of transverse arteries and the number of vessels greater than 0.1 mm in diameter on the 3-day delay duration and the 6-day delay duration were significantly greater than those of the normal group. The number of transverse arteries and the number of vessels greater than 0.1 mm in diameter on the 6-day inhibition duration were not significantly changed compared with the normal group. Microvascular density on the 6-day delay duration obviously increased, whereas the 6-day inhibition duration was not significantly changed in comparison to the normal group.

Conclusion:

Endogenous VEGF is an initiating factor of the surgical delay effect by controlling choke vessel dilation and neovascularization within the choke zones.
Tacrolimus and Single Intraoperative High-dose of Anti-T-lymphocyte Globulins Versus Tacrolimus Monotherapy in Adult Liver Transplantation
Authors: Iesari Samuele , Ackenine Kevin , Foguenne Maxime , De Reyck Chantal , Komuta Mina , Bonaccorsi Riani Eliano , Ciccarelli Olga , Coubeau Laurent , Lai Quirino , Gianello Pierre , Lerut Jan
Published: October 2018

Objective:

The aim of the study is to evaluate whether intra-operative induction with anti-lymphocytic serum (ALS) is superior to no induction in adult liver transplantation (LT).

Background:

The efficacy of ALS induction remains inconclusive in LT, because of poorly designed trials.

Methods:

A randomized controlled trial was conducted, including 206 adults (>15 years) and comparing tacrolimus monotherapy (TAC, n = 109) and tacrolimus plus a single, intraoperative, high-dose (9 mg/kg), rabbit anti-T-lymphocyte globulins (ATLG; n = 97). All patients had similar follow-up, including Banff-scored biopsies. Rejection was considered clinically relevant and treated if pathologic and biochemical changes were concordant. The primary endpoint was immunosuppression minimization to monotherapy; secondary endpoints were biopsy-proven rejection, clinical rejection, patient (PS) and graft (GS) survival.

Results:

At 1 year, 79/81 (96.3%) ATLG and 101/102 (99.0%) TAC patients were steroid-free (P = 0.585); 28 (34.6%) ATLG, and 31 (30.4%) TAC patients were on double-drug immunosuppression (P = 0.633). One-year PS and GS of ATLG and TAC patients were 84% and 92% (P = 0.260) and 76% and 90% (P = 0.054).

Despite significantly a fewer day-7 moderate-to-severe acute cellular rejections (ACR) in ATLG group (10.0% vs 24.0% in TAC group, P = 0.019), cumulative proportion of patients experiencing steroid-sensitive (11.3% ATLG vs 14.7% TAC, P = 0.539), steroid-resistant (2.1% ATLG vs 3.7% TAC, P = 0.686) and chronic rejection (1.0% ATLG vs 0.9% TAC, P = 1.000) were similar. ATLG administration brought about greater hemodynamic instability and blood products use (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

At 1 year from LT, ATLG induction did not significantly affect immunosuppressive load, treated rejection, patient, and graft survival. The observed adverse events justify a modification of dosing and timing of ATLG infusion. Long-term results are required to judge the ATLG possible benefits on immunosuppressive load and tolerance induction.
Explaining the ocean's richest biodiversity hotspot and global patterns of fish diversity
Authors: Miller Elizabeth Christina , Hayashi Kenji T. , Song Dongyuan , Wiens John J.
Published: October 2018

For most marine organisms, species richness peaks in the Central Indo-Pacific region and declines longitudinally, a striking pattern that remains poorly understood. Here, we used phylogenetic approaches to address the causes of richness patterns among global marine regions, comparing the relative importance of colonization time, number of colonization events, and diversification rates (speciation minus extinction). We estimated regional richness using distributional data for almost all percomorph fishes (17 435 species total, including approximately 72% of all marine fishes and approximately 33% of all freshwater fishes). The high diversity of the Central Indo-Pacific was explained by its colonization by many lineages 5.3–34 million years ago. These relatively old colonizations allowed more time for richness to build up through
in situ
diversification compared to other warm-marine regions. Surprisingly, diversification rates were decoupled from marine richness patterns, with clades in low-richness cold-marine habitats having the highest rates. Unlike marine richness, freshwater diversity was largely derived from a few ancient colonizations, coupled with high diversification rates. Our results are congruent with the geological history of the marine tropics, and thus may apply to many other organisms. Beyond marine biogeography, we add to the growing number of cases where colonization and time-for-speciation explain large-scale richness patterns instead of diversification rates.
Staggered Hox expression is more widespread among molluscs than previously appreciated
Authors: Wollesen Tim , Rodríguez Monje Sonia Victoria , Luiz de Oliveira André , Wanninger Andreas
Published: October 2018

Hox genes are expressed along the anterior–posterior body axis in a colinear fashion in the majority of bilaterians. Contrary to polyplacophorans, a group of aculiferan molluscs with conserved ancestral molluscan features, gastropods and cephalopods deviate from this pattern by expressing Hox genes in distinct morphological structures and not in a staggered fashion. Among conchiferans, scaphopods exhibit many similarities with gastropods, cephalopods and bivalves, however, the molecular developmental underpinnings of these similar traits remain unknown. We investigated Hox gene expression in developmental stages of the scaphopod
Antalis entalis
to elucidate whether these genes are involved in patterning morphological traits shared by their kin conchiferans. Scaphopod Hox genes are predominantly expressed in the foot and mantle but also in the central nervous system. Surprisingly, the scaphopod mid-stage trochophore exhibits a near-to staggered expression of all nine Hox genes identified. Temporal colinearity was not found and early-stage and late-stage trochophores, as well as postmetamorphic individuals, do not show any apparent traces of staggered expression. In these stages, Hox genes are expressed in distinct morphological structures such as the cerebral and pedal ganglia and in the shell field of early-stage trochophores. Interestingly, a re-evaluation of previously published data on early-stage cephalopod embryos and of the gastropod pre-torsional veliger shows that these developmental stages exhibit traces of staggered Hox expression. Considering our results and all gene expression and genomic data available for molluscs as well as other bilaterians, we suggest a last common molluscan ancestor with colinear Hox expression in predominantly ectodermal tissues along the anterior–posterior axis. Subsequently, certain Hox genes have been co-opted into the patterning process of distinct structures (apical organ or prototroch) in conchiferans.
Ancient plants with ancient fungi: liverworts associate with early-diverging arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Rimington William R. , Pressel Silvia , Duckett Jeffrey G. , Field Katie J. , Read David J. , Bidartondo Martin I.
Published: October 2018

Arbuscular mycorrhizas are widespread in land plants including liverworts, some of the closest living relatives of the first plants to colonize land 500 million years ago (MYA). Previous investigations reported near-exclusive colonization of liverworts by the most recently evolved arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, the Glomeraceae, indicating a recent acquisition from flowering plants at odds with the widely held notion that arbuscular mycorrhizal-like associations in liverworts represent the ancestral symbiotic condition in land plants. We performed an analysis of symbiotic fungi in 674 globally collected liverworts using molecular phylogenetics and electron microscopy. Here, we show every order of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonizes early-diverging liverworts, with non-Glomeraceae being at least 10 times more common than in flowering plants. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in liverworts and other ancient plant lineages (hornworts, lycopods, and ferns) were delimited into 58 taxa and 36 singletons, of which at least 43 are novel and specific to liverworts. The discovery that early plant lineages are colonized by early-diverging fungi supports the hypothesis that arbuscular mycorrhizas are an ancestral symbiosis for all land plants.
Reciprocal facilitation between large herbivores and ants in a semi-arid grassland
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Zhong Zhiwei , Sanders Dirk , Smit Christian , Wang Deli , Nummi Petri , Zhu Yu , Wang Ling , Zhu Hui , Hassan Nazim
Published: October 2018

While positive interactions have been well documented in plant and sessile benthic marine communities, their role in structuring mobile animal communities and underlying mechanisms has been less explored. Using field removal experiments, we demonstrated that a large vertebrate herbivore (cattle;Bos tarurs) and a much smaller invertebrate (ants;Lasiusspp.), the two dominant animal taxa in a semi-arid grassland in Northeast China, facilitate each other. Cattle grazing led to higher ant mound abundance compared with ungrazed sites, while the presence of ant mounds increased the foraging of cattle during the peak of the growing season. Mechanistically, these reciprocal positive effects were driven by habitat amelioration and resource (food) enhancement by cattle and ants (respectively). Cattle facilitated ants, probably by decreasing plant litter accumulation by herbivory and trampling, allowing more light to reach the soil surface leading to microclimatic conditions that favour ants. Ants facilitated cattle probably by increasing soil nutrients via bioturbation, increasing food (plant) biomass and quality (nitrogen content) for cattle. Our study demonstrates reciprocal facilitative interactions between two animal species from phylogenetically very distant taxa. Such reciprocal positive interactions may be more common in animal communities than so far assumed, and they should receive more attention to improve our understanding of species coexistence and animal community assembly.
Australian porcine clonal complex 10 (CC10) Escherichia coli belong to multiple sublineages of a highly diverse global CC10 phylogeny
Authors: Reid Cameron J. , DeMaere Matthew Z. , Djordjevic Steven P.
Published: October 2018

We recently identified clonal complex 10 (CC10)

Escherichia coli

as the predominant clonal group in two populations of healthy Australian food-production pigs. CC10 are highly successful, colonizing humans, food-production animals, fresh produce and environmental niches. Furthermore,

E. coli

within CC10 are frequently drug resistant and increasingly reported as human and animal extra-intestinal pathogens. In order to develop a high-resolution global phylogeny and determine the repertoire of antimicrobial-resistance genes, virulence-associated genes and plasmid types within this clonal group, we downloaded 228 publicly available CC10 short-read genome sequences for comparison with 20 porcine CC10 we have previously described. Core genome single nucleotide polymorphism phylogeny revealed a highly diverse global phylogeny consisting of multiple lineages that did not cluster by geography or source of the isolates. Australian porcine strains belonged to several of these divergent lineages, indicative that CC10 is present in these animals due to multiple colonization events. Differences in resistance gene and plasmid carriage between porcine strains and the global collection highlighted the role of lateral gene transfer in the evolution of CC10 strains. Virulence profiles typical of extra-intestinal pathogenic

E. coli

were present in both Australian porcine strains and the broader collection. As both the core phylogeny and accessory gene characteristics appeared unrelated to the geography or source of the isolates, it is likely that the global expansion of CC10 is not a recent event and may be associated with faecal carriage in humans.
A family of transcription factors that limit lifespan: ETS factors have conserved roles in longevity
Authors: Dobson Adam J. , Boulton-McDonald Richard , Houchou Lara , Ren Ziyu , Hoti Mimoza , Rodriguez-Lopez Maria , Gkantiragas Alexis , Gregoriou Afroditi , Bähler Jürg , Ezcurra Marina , Alic Nazif
Published: October 2018

Increasing average population age, and the accompanying burden of ill health, is one of the public health crises of our time. Understanding the basic biology of the ageing process may help ameliorate the pathologies that characterise old age. Ageing can be modulated, often through changes in gene expression where regulation of transcription plays a pivotal role. Activities of Forkhead transcription factors (TFs) are known to extend lifespan, but detailed knowledge of the broader transcriptional networks that promote longevity is lacking. This study focuses on the E twenty-six (ETS) family of TFs. This family of TFs is large, conserved across metazoa, and known to play roles in development and cancer, but the role of its members in ageing has not been studied extensively. InDrosophila, an ETS transcriptional repressor,Aop, and an ETS transcriptional activator,Pnt, are known to genetically interact withFoxoand activatingAopis sufficient to extend lifespan. Here, it is shown thatAopandFoxoeffect a related gene-expression programme. Additionally,Aopcan modulateFoxo’s transcriptional output to moderate or synergise withFoxoactivity depending on promoter context, bothin vitroandin vivo.In vivogenome-wide mRNA expression analysis in response toAop,PntorFoxoindicated, and further experiments confirmed, that combinatorial activities of the three TFs dictate metabolic status, and that direct reduction ofPntactivity is sufficient to promote longevity. The role of ETS factors in longevity was not limited toPntandAop. Knockdown ofEts21corEip74EFin distinct cell types also extended lifespan, revealing that lifespan is limited by transcription from the ETS binding site in multiple cellular contexts. Reducing the activity of theC. elegansETS TFLin-1also extended lifespan, a finding that corroborates established evidence of roles of this TF family in ageing. Altogether, these results reveal the ETS family of TFs as pervasive and evolutionarily conserved brokers of longevity.
Genomic knockout ofalms1in zebrafish recapitulates Alström syndrome and provides insight into metabolic phenotypes
Authors: Nesmith Jessica E. , Hostelley Timothy L. , Leitch Carmen C. , Matern Maggie S. , Sethna Saumil , McFarland Rebecca , Lodh Sukanya , Westlake Christopher J. , Hertzano Ronna , Ahmed Zubair M. , Zaghloul Norann A.
Published: October 2018

SCIENTIFIC ABSTRACT

Alström syndrome is an autosomal recessive obesity ciliopathy caused by loss-of-function mutations in theALMS1gene. In addition to multi-organ dysfunction, such as cardiomyopathy, retinal degeneration, and renal dysfunction, the disorder is characterized by high rates of obesity, insulin resistance and early onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). To investigate mechanisms linking disease phenotypes we generated a loss-of-function deletion of alms1in the zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9. We demonstrate conserved phenotypic effects including cardiac defects, retinal degeneration, and metabolic deficits that included propensity for obesity and fatty livers in addition to hyperinsulinemia and glucose response defects. Gene expression changes in β-cells isolated fromalms1−/−mutants revealed changes consistent with insulin hyper-secretion and glucose sensing failure, which were also identified in cultured murine β-cells lackingAlms1. These data present a zebrafish model to assess etiology and new secretory pathway defects underlying Alström syndrome-associated metabolic phenotypes. Given the hyperinsulinemia and reduced glucose sensitivity in these animals we also propose thealms1loss-of-function mutant as a monogenic model for studying T2DM phenotypes.

AUTHOR SUMMARY

These data comprise a thorough characterization of a zebrafish model of Alström syndrome, a human obesity syndrome caused by loss-of-function deletions in a single gene,ALMS1. The high rates of obesity and insulin resistance found in these patients suggest this disorder as a single-gene model for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), a disorder caused by a variety of environmental and genetic factors in the general population. We identify a propensity for obesity, excess lipid storage, loss of β-cells in islets, and hyperinsulinemia in larval and adult stages of zebrafishalms1mutants. We isolated β-cells from thealms1mutants and compared the gene expression profiles from RNASeq datasets to identify molecular pathways that may contribute to the loss of β-cells and hyperinsulinemia. The increase in genes implicated in generalized pancreatic secretion, insulin secretion, and glucose transport suggest potential β-cell exhaustion as a source of β-cell loss and excess larval insulin. We propose this mutant as a new genetic tool for understanding the metabolic failures found in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Remapping in cerebral and cerebellar cortices is not restricted by somatotopy
Authors: Hahamy Avital , Makin Tamar R.
Published: October 2018

A fundamental organizing principle in the somatosensory and motor systems is somatotopy, where specific body parts are represented separately and adjacently to other body parts, resulting in a body map. Different terminals of the sensorimotor network show varied somatotopic layouts, in which the relative position, distance and overlap between body-part representations differ. Since somatotopy is best characterized in the primary somatosensory (S1) and motor (M1) cortices, these terminals have been the main focus of research on somatotopic remapping following loss of sensory input (e.g. arm amputation). Cortical remapping is generally considered to be driven by the layout of the underlying somatotopy, such that neighboring body-part representations tend to activate the deprived brain region. Here, we challenge the assumption that somatotopic layout restricts remapping, by comparing patterns of remapping in humans born without one hand (hereafter, one-handers, n=26) across multiple terminals of the sensorimotor pathway. We first report that in the cerebellum of one-handers, the deprived hand region represents multiple body parts. Importantly, the representations of some of these body parts do not neighbor the deprived hand region. We further replicate our previous finding, showing a similar pattern of remapping in the deprived hand region of the cerebral cortex in one-handers. Finally, we report preliminary results of a similar remapping pattern in the putamen of one-handers. Since these three sensorimotor terminals (cerebellum, cerebrum, putamen) contain different somatotopic layouts, the parallel remapping they undergo demonstrates that the mere spatial layout of body-part representations may not exclusively dictate remapping in the sensorimotor systems.

Significance Statement

When a hand is missing, the brain region that typically processes information from that hand may instead process information from other body-parts, a phenomenon termed remapping. It is commonly thought that only body-parts whose information is processed in regions neighboring the hand region could “take up” the resources of this now deprived region. Here we demonstrate that information from multiple body-parts is processed in the hand regions of both the cerebral cortex and cerebellum. The native brain regions of these body-parts have varying levels of overlap with the hand region across multiple terminals in the sensorimotor hierarchy, and do not necessarily neighbor the hand region. We therefore propose that proximity between brain regions does not limit brain remapping.
A self-organized reciprocal control method for multi-robot simultaneous coverage and tracking
Authors: Chen Runfeng , Li Jie , Shen Lincheng
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Multi-robots simultaneously coverage and tracking (SCAT) is the problem of simultaneously covering area and tracking targets, which is essential for many applications, such as delivery service, environment monitor, traffic surveillance, crime monitor, anti-terrorist mission and so on. The purpose of this paper is to improve the performance of detected target quantity, coverage rate and less deadweight loss by designing a self-organized method for multi-robots SCAT.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-organized reciprocal control method is proposed, coupling task assignment, tracking and covering, equipped with collision-avoiding ability naturally. First, SCAT problem is directly modeled as optimal reciprocal coverage velocity (ORCV) in velocity space. Second, the preferred velocity is generated by calculating the best velocity to the center of some robot detected targets. ORCV is given by adjusting the velocity relative to neighbor robots’ toward in optimal coverage velocity (OCV); it is proven that OCV is collision-free assembly. Third, some corresponding algorithms are designed for finding optimal velocity under two situations, such as no detected targets and empty ORCV.

Findings

The simulation results of two cases for security robots show that the proposed method has detected more targets with less deadweight loss and decision time and no collisions anytime.

Originality/value

In this paper, a self-organized reciprocal control method is proposed for multi-robots SCAT problem, which is modeled in velocity space directly, different to the traditional method modeling in configuration space. What is more, this method considers the reciprocal of robots that contributes to the better accomplishment of SCAT cooperatively.
Electromagnetic fields and thrust-ripples calculation for segmented-secondary linear flux-switching motors
Authors: Hosseini Monir Sadat , Javadi Hamid , Vaez-Zadeh Sadegh
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate analytical electromagnetic fields and thrust ripples representation of linear flux-switching motors with simple modulated secondary referred as segmented secondary linear flux-switching motor (SSLFSM).

Design/methodology/approach

SSLFSMs are applicable to transportation systems like Maglev due to their simple and consequently low-cost secondary structures and high force density. However, they have high thrust ripples that deteriorate a smooth motion in rail transportation systems. Therefore, derivation of accurate analytical models for thrust ripples minimization of the motor is essential, which is absent in the literature. In this paper, a two-dimensional analytical model is developed for this motor. The model is based on transfer relations and Fourier theory used for solving a two-dimensional boundary value problem. Certain model regions are determined by considering actual machine structure and observing specific rules. Analytical solution of Maxwell and Poison equations are then obtained in the regions.

Finding

Using the presented modeling method, the airgap electromagnetic field distribution and developed thrust of the motor are calculated for different positions of the motor as well as its thrust ripples. They are verified by the results obtained from finite element method. Also, the analytical results are compared with the presented experimental results.

Originality/value

This paper has analytically presented the airgap electromagnetic field distribution, thrust and thrust ripples of the SSLFSMs. This modeling is essential in thrust ripples minimization of the motor.
Making organizational change happen – Does what we now know from neuroscience have any impact?
Authors: Luffman Gary
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight how developments in neuroscience can positively impact the likelihood of successfully implementing change in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the author’s experience of working with organizations over the past 10 years.

Findings

Change must be regarded as a cognitive process rather than a program, project, or training event.

Originality/value

Based on developments in the field of neuroscience, the author provides a recipe for those involved in bringing about organizational change.
The benefits of coaching the coach
Authors: Smith David
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

A study of the training programs offered to managers who coach employees has revealed how organizations could offer them far more support to develop their skills. The findings of the research indicated that although 58.7 per cent of the managers interviewed had received some support from their organizations, it was often short-lived, and less than a quarter (22.9 per cent) felt they did not need any further support. There was strong demand for longer, more in-depth training that took place on an ongoing basis. Some managers (about 5 per cent) even suggested they wanted formal qualifications in how to coach the staff.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.
Hoping for the best, preparing for the worst
Authors: Coleman Peter T. , Kugler Katharina G. , Vallacher Robin , Kim Regina
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose that a moreoptimal regulatory focusin conflict reflects amix of promotion and preventionconsiderations because conflict often elicits needs for promoting well-being as well as needs for preventing threats to security and interests. Two studies using distinct methodologies tested the hypothesis that social conflict is associated with better outcomes when the parties construe the conflict with a regulatory focus that reflects a combination of both promotion and prevention orientations.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 was an experiment that framed the same low-intensity conflict scenario as either prevention- or promotion-focused, or as both. In Study 2, we mouse-coded stream-of-thought accounts of participants’ actual ongoing high-intensity conflicts for time spent in both promotion and prevention focus.

Findings

In Study 1, the combined framing resulted in greater satisfaction with expected conflict outcomes and goal attainment than did either prevention or promotion framing alone. However, a promotion frame alone was associated with greater process and relationship satisfaction. These results were replicated in Study 2.

Originality/value

Prior research on regulatory focus has emphasized the benefits of a promotion focus over prevention when managing conflict. The present research offers new insight into how these seemingly opposing motives can operate in tandem to increase conflict satisfaction. Thus, this research illustrates the value of moving beyond dichotomized motivational distinctions in conflict research, to understand the dynamic interplay of how these distinctions may be navigated in concert for more effective conflict engagement. It also illustrates the value of mouse-coding methods for capturing the dynamic interplay of motives as they rise and fall in salience over time.
The efficacy of contractual governance on task and relationship conflict in inter-organisational transactions
Authors: You Jingya , Chen Yongqiang , Hua Yuanyuan , Wang Wenqian
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explain how contractual complexity, including contractual control, coordination and adaptation, makes a difference to the task and relationship conflict, and then, to investigate the moderating roles played by both, total interdependence and interdependence asymmetry, in altering the association between the two types of conflicts.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained data through a questionnaire survey in the Chinese construction industry and the final sample consisted of 232 responses. The data were analysed using hierarchy analysis using SPSS.

Findings

The results are as follows: first, higher contractual control and coordination reduce the level of relationship conflicts, and higher contractual coordination also reduces the level of task conflicts; second, task conflict positively affects relationship conflict; third, task conflict mediates the relationship between contractual coordination and relationship conflict; and finally, when total interdependence is higher, task conflict induces more relationship conflict. On the contrary, high interdependence asymmetry weakens the positive relationship between task and relationship conflicts.

Practical implications

This study highlights the importance of contracts in conflict management. The findings can guide practitioners in drafting suitable contracts to deal with task and relationship conflicts more effectively.

Originality/value

This study differentiates the effects of distinct components of contracts on task and relationship conflicts, and then reveals the contingent effects of interdependence on the relationship between task and relationship conflicts in inter-organisational transactions.
Measurements of workplace productivity in the office context
Authors: Bortoluzzi Brandon , Carey Daniel , McArthur J.J. , Menassa Carol
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive survey of workplace productivity key performance indicators (KPIs) used in the office context. Academic literature from the past 10 years has been systematically reviewed and contextualized through a series of expert interviews.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present a systematic review of the literature to identify KPIs and methods of workplace productivity measurement, complemented by insights semi-structured interviews to inform a framework for a benchmarking tool. In total, 513 papers published since 2007 were considered, of which 98 full-length papers were reviewed, and 20 were found to provide significant insight and are summarized herein.

Findings

Currently, no consensus exists on a single KPI suitable for measuring workplace productivity in an office environment, although qualitative questionnaires are more widely adopted than quantitative tools. The diversity of KPIs used in published studies indicates that a multidimensional approach would be the most appropriate for knowledge-worker productivity measurement. Expert interviews further highlighted a shift from infrequent, detailed evaluation to frequent, simplified reporting across human resource functions and this context is important for future tool development.

Originality/value

This paper provides a summary of significant work on workplace productivity measurement and KPI development over the past 10 years. This follows up on the comprehensive review by B. Haynes (2007a), providing an updated perspective on research in this field with additional insights from expert interviews.
The dual influences of proximity on knowledge sharing
Authors: Holdt Christensen Peter , Pedersen Torben
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The authors focus on how intra-organizational proximity influences the frequency of knowledge transfer in dyads, and the authors seek to balance the over-socialized and under-socialized perspectives of knowledge sharing by focusing on how proximity both indirectly (mediated by social relationships) and directly influences the frequency of knowledge sharing. Empirically, the authors analyze how proximity in a five-story building directly and indirectly influences the frequency of knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

As the authors were interested in exploring the frequency of knowledge sharing among individuals in knowledge sharing dyads, they used a survey to approach individuals directly and obtain information on the frequency of their knowledge sharing. The authors have complete data on 796 dyads on which they tested their hypotheses. Further, the physical distance in a dyad was measured as the walking distance (measured in meters) between individuals.

Findings

The authors first find that proximity positively affects the frequency of knowledge sharing indirectly through its promotion of social relationships. Second, it is noticeable that the direct relationship between proximity and knowledge sharing is stronger than the indirect via the promotion of social relationships. In sum, the authors’ results contribute to the knowledge sharing literature by emphasizing and clarifying how proximity both directly and indirectly influences knowledge sharing.

Research limitations/implications

This study has some limitations. First, this study only measured the frequency of knowledge sharing among individuals. Neither individual nor organizational outcomes of knowledge sharing were considered. Second, the authors did not distinguish between different channels for knowledge sharing, such as face-to-face or face-to-interface.

Practical implications

One practical implication is that knowledge sharing spanning, for instance, 50 m compared to knowledge sharing spanning 30 m may not necessarily require more resources, as the negative effect of 30 and 50 m distances is almost similar, as the negative effect of distance starts to fade out at 30 m. Another practical implication for the direct effect of proximity on knowledge sharing is that to foster knowledge sharing organizational practices need to create opportunities for employees to span both horizontal and vertical distances.

Originality/value

The authors’ results contribute to the knowledge sharing literature by empirically emphasizing and clarifying how intra-organizational proximity both directly and indirectly influences knowledge sharing.
Evidence of the effects of psychological capital on the transfer of knowledge from accounting students to business organizations
Authors: Pletsch Caroline Sulzbach , Zonatto Vinicius Costa da Silva
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the effects of psychological capital on the transfer of knowledge from accounting students to business organizations. A descriptive study was carried out, with 210 students from the Accounting Sciences course of two universities of the Itajaí Valley, Santa Catarina, and a quantitative data approach.

Design/methodology/approach

To compose the sample, the academics who were attending from the third semester of the course and working in business organizations were exclusively selected. Data collection was carried out by means of a questionnaire. and the analysis was conducted with the aid of modeling of structural equations. Ten hypotheses were established to investigate the theoretical relations object of analysis and to reach the objective of the study, of which only three were refuted.

Findings

The results showed an indirect relation between psychological capital and knowledge transfer, mediated by the acquired knowledge and the absorptive capacity of the students. It has been found that accounting academics transfer knowledge to the business organizations in which they work, which indicates that their experiences, skills and knowledge gained from the studies, are put into practice in their workplace. This transfer of knowledge depends on the knowledge acquired, the students’ absorptive capacity and, indirectly, on their psychological capital. In general, it was verified that motivational factors can contribute to the transfer of knowledge.

Originality/value

In general, it was verified that motivational factors can contribute to the transfer of knowledge, however, unlike that found in other studies developed on the subject, these are not direct determinants to the transfer of knowledge, being elements predictors for it to occur learning through its acquisition, which will influence this transfer. Thus, in the sample investigated, the evidences found revealed that the motivation for learning indirectly influences the transfer of knowledge, through the acquired knowledge.
Assessing the relationship between market orientation and business performance in the hotel industry – the mediating role of service quality
Authors: Sampaio Carlos A.F. , Hernández-Mogollón José M. , Rodrigues Ricardo G.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This study aims to explore the nature of the relationship between market orientation and business performance in the Portuguese hotel industry and to evaluate the mediating role of service quality in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature analysis on market orientation, service quality and hotel business performance was conducted. The structural model was developed, and the measurement scales’ items were generated. Working data were obtained by sending a survey to Portuguese hotel managers. A purification process was conducted, and the convergent and discriminant validity, as well the reliability, of the measurement models were assessed. The structural model was tested by conducting a path analysis, as well by evaluating the coefficient of determination (R2) and the predictive relevance indicator (Q2).

Findings

Research results show that market orientation has a positive direct effect on business performance. Moreover, results indicate that market orientation effects on business performance are mediated throughout the hotels’ ability to provide service quality.

Originality/value

Despite the large amount of research on market orientation, research on the hospitality sector has been conducted mainly using tools developed for the manufacturing and consumer goods sectors. On the other hand, little has been done to explore the nature of the mediating effect of service quality on the relationship between market orientation and business performance in the hotel industry. Moreover, despite the contribution of the tourism industry to the Portuguese gross domestic product, research on the hotel industry is scarce.