bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Use High Percentages of Trunk Muscle Capacity to Perform Seated Tasks
Authors: Peeters Laura H. C. , Janssen Mariska M. H. P. , Kingma Idsart , van Dieën Jaap H. , de Groot Imelda J. M.
Published: July 2019

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate trunk function during seated upper limb tasks in patients with spinal muscular atrophy types 2 and 3.

Design

Seventeen persons with spinal muscular atrophy and 15 healthy controls performed several tasks when sitting unsupported, such as reaching (and placing) forward and sideward. Joint torque and muscle activity were measured during maximum voluntary isometric contractions. Three-dimensional kinematics and normalized muscle activity were analyzed when performing tasks.

Results

Trunk joint torques were significantly decreased, approximately 45%, in patients with spinal muscular atrophy compared with healthy controls. Active range of trunk motion was also significantly decreased in all directions. When performing tasks, the average back muscle activity was 27% and 56% of maximum voluntary isometric contractions for healthy controls and spinal muscular atrophy and for abdominal muscles 10% and 44% of maximum voluntary isometric contractions, respectively. Trunk range of motion did not differ when performing daily tasks.

Conclusions

The trunk of patients with spinal muscular atrophy is weaker compared with healthy controls, reflected by reduced trunk torques and decreased active range of motion. In addition, patients with spinal muscular atrophy use high percentages of their trunk muscle capacity to perform tasks. Clinicians should take this into account for intervention development, because using high percentages of the maximum muscle capacity results in fatigue and muscle overloading.
Integra in Scalp Reconstruction After Tumor Excision: Recommendations From a Multidisciplinary Advisory Board
Authors: Magnoni Cristina , De Santis Giorgio , Fraccalvieri Marco , Bellini Pietrantonio , Portincasa Aurelio , Giacomelli Luca , Papa Giovanni
Published: July 2019

Integra is a dermal regeneration template used in the reconstruction of burns, traumatic injuries, or excision lesions in patients who present particular risk factors for traditional surgical procedures. A multidisciplinary advisory board of expert dermatologists and plastic surgeons have discussed the use of Integra in the reconstruction of scalp defects after tumor excision, focusing on the evidence derived from literature and on their experience in the treatment of approximately 400 patients. In this position paper, the authors summarize the main evidence discussed during the board, and the common practice guidelines proposed by the experts. The use of Integra is recommended in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities who have a higher risk for potential complications in traditional surgery; these patients may in fact benefit from a lower anesthetic risk, a less complicated postsurgical care and limited morbidity at the donor site obtained with the dermal template. Integra should also be used in the reconstruction of large and complex wounds and in case of bone exposure, as it helps to overcome the challenges related to wound healing in difficult areas. Notably, Integra has proven to be effective in patients who have undergone previous surgical procedures or adjuvant radiation therapy, in which previous incisions, scarring and radiation damages may hamper the effectiveness of traditional procedures. Finally, Integra is recommended in patients with recurrent and aggressive tumors who need closer tumor surveillance, as it gives easy access to the tumor site for oncologic follow-up examination.
Quantification of Student Radiographic Patient Positioning Using an Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation
Authors: Sapkaroski Daniel , Baird Marilyn , Mundy Matthew , Dimmock Matthew Richard
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Immersive virtual reality (VR) simulation environments facilitate novel ways for users to visualize anatomy and quantify performance relative to expert users. The ability of software to provide positional feedback before a practitioner progresses with subsequent stages of examinations has broad implications for primary and allied healthcare professionals, particularly with respect to health and safety (eg, exposing to x-rays). The effect of training student-radiographers (radiology technicians), with a VR simulation environment was quantitatively assessed.

Methods

Year 1 radiography students (N = 76) were randomly split into 2 cohorts, each of which were trained at performing the same tasks relating to optimal hand positioning for projection x-ray imaging; group 1 was trained using the CETSOL VR Clinic software, whereas group 2 was trained using conventional simulated role-play in a real clinical environment. All participants completed an examination 3 weeks after training. The examination required both posterior-anterior and oblique hand x-ray positioning tasks to be performed on a real patient model. The analysis of images from the examination enabled quantification of the students' performance. The results were contextualized through a comparison with 4 expert radiographers.

Results

Students in group 1 performed on average 36% (P < 0.001) better in relation to digit separation, 11% (P ≤ 0.001) better in terms of palm flatness and 23% (P < 0.05) better in terms of central ray positioning onto the third metacarpal.

Conclusion

A significant difference in patient positioning was evident between the groups; the VR clinic cohort demonstrated improved patient positioning outcomes. The observed improvement is attributed to the inherent task deconstruction and variety of visualization mechanisms available in immersive VR environments.
Textbook Outcome
Authors: van Roessel Stijn , Mackay Tara M. , van Dieren Susan , van der Schelling George P. , Nieuwenhuijs Vincent B. , Bosscha Koop , van der Harst Edwin , van Dam Ronald M. , Liem Mike S. L. , Festen Sebastiaan , Stommel Martijn W. J. , Roos Daphne , Wit Fennie , Molenaar I. Quintus , de Meijer Vincent E. , Kazemier Geert , de Hingh Ignace H. J. T. , van Santvoort Hjalmar C. , Bonsing Bert A. , Busch Olivier R. , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Besselink Marc G.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Textbook outcome (TO) is a multidimensional measure for quality assurance, reflecting the “ideal” surgical outcome.

Methods:

Post-hoc analysis of patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) or distal pancreatectomy (DP) for all indications between 2014 and 2017, queried from the nationwide prospective Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit. An international survey was conducted among 24 experts from 10 countries to reach consensus on the requirements for TO in pancreatic surgery. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify TO predictors. Between-hospital variation in TO rates was compared using observed-versus-expected rates.

Results:

Based on the survey (92% response rate), TO was defined by the absence of postoperative pancreatic fistula, bile leak, postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (all ISGPS grade B/C), severe complications (Clavien–Dindo ≥III), readmission, and in-hospital mortality. Overall, 3341 patients were included (2633 (79%) PD and 708 (21%) DP) of whom 60.3% achieved TO; 58.3% for PD and 67.4% for DP. On multivariable analysis, ASA class 3 predicted a worse TO rate after PD (ASA 3 OR 0.59 [0.44–0.80]), whereas a dilated pancreatic duct (>3 mm) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) were associated with a better TO rate (OR 2.22 [2.05–3.57] and OR 1.36 [1.14–1.63], respectively). For DP, female sex and the absence of neoadjuvant therapy predicted better TO rates (OR 1.38 [1.01–1.90] and OR 2.53 [1.20–5.31], respectively). When comparing institutions, the observed-versus-expected rate for achieving TO varied from 0.71 to 1.46 per hospital after casemix-adjustment.

Conclusions:

TO is a novel quality measure in pancreatic surgery. TO varies considerably between pancreatic centers, demonstrating the potential benefit of quality assurance programs.
HLA Alloimmunization Following Ventricular Assist Device Support Across the Age Spectrum
Authors: Halpin Anne M. , Nahirniak Susan , Campbell Patricia M. , Urschel Simon , Kim Daniel H. , West Lori J. , Pidorochynski Tara , Buchholz Holger , Conway Jennifer
Published: July 2019

Background.

Ventricular assist device (VAD) therapy has become an important tool for end-stage heart failure. VAD therapy has increased survival but is associated with complications including the development of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies. We sought to determine the incidence of HLA antibody development post-VAD insertion, across the age spectrum, in patients receiving leukocyte-reduced blood products, with standardized HLA antibody detection methods and to investigate factors associated with antibody development.

Methods.

This was a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent durable VAD placement between 2005 and 2014. Inclusion criteria included availability of pre- and post-VAD HLA antibody results. Associations between HLA antibody development in the first-year postimplant and patient factors were explored.

Results.

Thirty-nine adult and 25 pediatric patients made up the study cohort. Following implant, 31% and 8% of patients developed new class I and class II antibodies. The proportion of newly sensitized patients was similar in adult and pediatric patients. The class I HLA panel reactive antibody only significantly increased in adults. Pre-VAD sensitization, age, sex (pediatrics), and transfusion were not associated with the development of HLA antibodies.

Conclusions.

In a cohort of VAD patients receiving leukocyte-reduced blood products and standardized HLA antibody testing, roughly one-third developed new class I antibodies in the first-year postimplant. Adults showed significantly increased class I panel reactive antibody following VAD support. No patient-related factors were associated with HLA antibody development. Larger prospective studies are required to validate these findings and determine the clinical impact of these antibodies following VAD insertion.
Organ Procurement Organization Run Department of Motor Vehicle Registration and Drivers Licensing Offices Leads to Increased Organ Donor First Person Authorization Registrations
Authors: Dageforde Leigh Anne , Muren William , Chang Su-Hsin , Vachharajani Neeta , Brockmeier Diane , Yu Jennifer , Anderson Blaire , Shenoy Surendra , Lin Yiing , Khan Adeel , Wellen Jason , Chapman William , Doyle Majella
Published: July 2019

Background.

More people who have personally consented to organ donation via first person authorization (FPA) registration before death become organ donors than those not personally consenting. The majority of registrations occur at state-specific department of motor vehicle (DMV) and licensing offices, where people register their vehicles and obtain driver's licenses.

Methods.

One organ procurement organization (OPO) ran 3 DMV offices and implemented an intervention: a donor-centric approach, including employee education, office decoration with donation materials, and customer experience improvements. Data about registry enrollment was collected before and during the 4-year OPO licensing office contract. A linear mixed model and interrupted time series analyses were performed to evaluate whether the intervention improved rates of registration.

Results.

Preintervention registry enrollment rates per month were 10%–50%. Having the offices run by an OPO was associated with more enrollments independent of the increasing trend of enrollment (P < 0.001). Also, the DMV office with the lowest preimplementation registration rates had an immediate increase in enrollments after the intervention leading to higher registration rates (P < 0.001).

Conclusions.

A donor-centric OPO-managed DMV experience increases FPA registration, especially at offices with low initial registration rates. However, even at the office with the highest percentage of FPA registrations, rates were only 65% at intervention conclusion. The transplant community should consider other opportunities for FPA registration.
Hierarchical Compression Reveals Sub-Second to Day-Long Structure in Larval Zebrafish Behaviour
Authors: Ghosh Marcus , Rihel Jason
Published: July 2019

Animal behaviour is dynamic, evolving over multiple timescales from milliseconds to days and even across a lifetime. To understand the mechanisms governing these dynamics, it is necessary to capture multi-timescale structure from behavioural data. Here, we develop computational tools and study the behaviour of hundreds of larval zebrafish tracked continuously across multiple 24-hour day/night cycles. We extracted millions of movements and pauses, termed bouts, and used unsupervised learning to reduce each larva’s behaviour to an alternating sequence of active and inactive bout types, termed modules. Through hierarchical compression, we identified recurrent behavioural patterns, termed motifs. Module and motif usage varied across the day/night cycle, revealing structure at sub-second to day-long timescales. We further demonstrate that module and motif analysis can uncover novel pharmacological and genetic mutant phenotypes. Overall, our work reveals the organisation of larval zebrafish behaviour at multiple timescales and provides tools to identify structure from large-scale behavioural datasets.
Systems-level immunomonitoring using self-sampled capillary blood
Authors: Josyula Vijay Sai , Lakshmikanth Tadepally , Mikes Jaromir , Chen Yang , Brodin Petter
Published: July 2019

Comprehensive profiling of the human immune system in patients with cancer, autoimmune disease and during infections are providing valuable information that help us understand disease states and discriminate productive from inefficient immune responses and identify possible targets for immune modulation. Recent technical advances now allow for all immune cell populations and hundreds of plasma proteins to be detected using small volume blood samples. To democratize such systems-immunological analyses, further simplified blood sampling and preservation will be important. Here we describe that blood obtained via a nearly painless self-sampling device of 100 microliter of capillary blood that is preserved and frozen, can simplify systems-level immunomonitoring studies.
Evaluation of Bilateral Asymmetry in the Humerus of Human Skeletal Specimen
Authors: Dare Samuel S. , Masilili Godfery , Mugagga Kintu , Ekanem Peter E.
Published: July 2019

Several studies have established a relationship between morphological and behavioural asymmetry making investigations of bilateral bone asymmetry an attractive and important research area. The purpose of this study was to investigate bilateral asymmetry patterns of skeletal specimen from five geographical locations (Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, Kenya and Uganda) at Galloway Osteological Collection, Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences at Makerere University.

The angle of torsion and retroversion, mid shaft circumference, length and weight of 232 pairs of humeri were determined. A Torsiometer was used to measure the angle of torsion in degrees according to Krahl and Evans 1945, a tape was used to measure the mid shaft circumference at the level of the apex of the deltoid V and the length in cm was determined. An osteomeric board was used to measure the length of the humerus in centimeters. A weighing balance was used to measure the weight of the humerus in grams.

The analysis of humeral asymmetry with respect to parameters of the human skeletal specimen at the Galloway Osteological collection Mulago revealed bilateral asymmetrical status observed in the angle of torsion, length, weight and mid-shaft circumference. Our result mostly showed lateralization to the right in all the parameters investigated except the torsion angle which is to the left.

Our investigation revealed that humeral torsion is inversely proportional to weight, length and mid-shaft circumference of the humerus. This study established the existence of bilateral asymmetries in the humeri of all the geographical regions investigated with more asymmetry observed in the male compared with the female.
Novel insights into the taxonomic diversity and molecular mechanisms of bacterial Mn(III) reduction
Authors: Szeinbaum Nadia , Nunn Brook L. , Cavazos Amanda R. , Crowe Sean A. , Stewart Frank J. , DiChristina Thomas J. , Reinhard Christopher T. , Glass Jennifer B.
Published: July 2019

Soluble ligand-bound Mn(III) can support anaerobic microbial respiration in diverse aquatic environments. Thus far, Mn(III) reduction has only been associated with certain Gammaproteobacteria. Here, we characterized microbial communities enriched from Mn-replete sediments of Lake Matano, Indonesia. Our results provide the first evidence for biological reduction of soluble Mn(III) outside the Gammaproteobacteria. Metagenome assembly and binning revealed a novel betaproteobacterium, which we designate “Candidatus Dechloromonas occultata.” This organism dominated the enrichment and expressed a porin-cytochrome c complex typically associated with iron-oxidizing Betaproteobacteria and a novel cytochrome c-rich protein cluster (Occ), including an undecaheme putatively involved in extracellular electron transfer. This occ gene cluster was also detected in diverse aquatic bacteria, including uncultivated Betaproteobacteria from the deep subsurface. These observations provide new insight into the taxonomic and functional diversity of microbially-driven Mn(III) reduction in natural environments.

Originality-Significance Statement

Recent observations suggest that Mn(III)-ligand complexes are geochemically important in diverse aquatic environments. Thus far, microbially-driven Mn(III) reduction has only been associated with Gammaproteobacteria encoding three-component outer-membrane porin-cytochrome c conduits. Here, we demonstrate that Betaproteobacteria dominate in abundance and with respect to protein expression during biologically-mediated Mn(III) reduction in an enrichment culture from an anoxic lacustrine system. Using metaproteomics, we detect for the first time that Betaproteobacteria express a two-component porin-cytochrome c conduit, and an uncharacterized extracellular undecaheme (11-heme) c-type cytochrome. Although this is the first definitive report of an undecaheme within the Betaproteobacteria, we find evidence that they are widespread in uncultivated strains. These results widen the phylogenetic diversity of Mn(III)-reducing bacteria, and provide new insights into potential molecular mechanisms for soluble Mn(III) reduction
Bacterial fucosidase enables the production of Bombay red blood cells
Authors: Li Tiansheng , Ye Juan , Wang Lei , Zou Lin , Guo Yameng , Hou Linlin , Shen Danfeng , Cai Xiaohong , Huang Haobo , Sun Guiqin , Chen Li
Published: July 2019

We present a method to produce H antigen-deficient red blood cells (RBCs) for transfusion to individuals with anti-H antibodies. A fucosidase from bacteria was heterologously expressed efficiently in E. coli and has been demonstrated to completely remove H antigens on the surface of human RBCs in a facile conversion process. The approach we describe here holds promise for making H-deficient RBCs available for a rare population beyond ABO types.
Ultra High-Throughput Multiparametric Imaging Flow Cytometry: Towards Diffraction-Limited Sub-Cellular Detection
Authors: Holzner Gregor , Mateescu Bogdan , van Leeuwen Daniel , Cereghetti Gea , Dechant Reinhard , deMello Andrew , Stavrakis Stavros
Published: July 2019

Flow cytometry is widely recognized as the gold-standard technique for the analysis and enumeration of heterogeneous cellular populations and has become an indispensable tool in diagnostics,1rare-cell detection2and single-cell proteomics.3Although contemporary flow cytometers are able to analyse many thousands of cells per second, with classification based on scattering or fluorescence criteria, the vast majority require unacceptably large sample volumes, and do not allow the acquisition of spatial information. Herein, we report a sheathless, microfluidic imaging flow cytometer that incorporates stroboscopic illumination for blur-free fluorescence and brightfield detection at analytical throughputs in excess of 60,000 cells/s and 400,000 cells per second respectively. Our imaging platform is capable of multi-parametric fluorescence quantification and subcellular (co-)localization analysis of cellular structures down to 500 nm with microscopy image quality. We demonstrate the efficacy of our approach by performing challenging high-throughput localization analysis of cytoplasmic RNA granules in yeast and human cells. Results suggest significant utility of the imaging flow cytometer in the screening of rare events at the subcellular level for diagnostic applications.
Neck Musculoskeletal Model Generation through Anthropometric Scaling
Authors: Roos Paulien E. , Vasavada Anita , Zheng Liying , Zhou Xianlian
Published: July 2019

A new methodology was developed to quickly generate whole body models with detailed neck musculoskeletal architecture that are properly scaled in terms of anthropometry and muscle strength. This method was implemented in an anthropometry model generation software that allows users to interactively generate any new male or female musculoskeletal models with adjustment of anthropometric parameters (such as height, weight, neck circumference, and neck length) without the need of subject-specific motion capture or medical images. 50thpercentile male and female models were developed based on the 2012 US Army Anthropometric Survey (ANSUR II) database and optimized with a novel bilevel optimization method to have strengths comparable to experimentally measured values in the literature. Other percentile models (ranging from the 1stto 99thpercentile) were generated based on anthropometric scaling of the 50thpercentile models and compared. The resultant models are reasonably accurate in terms of both musculoskeletal geometry and neck strength, demonstrating the effectiveness of the developed methodology for interactive neck model generation with anthropometric scaling.
Exploring the Dynamics of Nonlinear Biochemical Systems using Control-Based Continuation
Authors: Gomes Brandon , de Cesare Irene , Guarino Agostino , di Bernardo Mario , Renson Ludovic , Marucci Lucia
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Mathematical modelling is routinely used in Systems Biology to understand the mechanisms causing nonlinear phenomena in gene expression, such as switch-like behaviours and temporal oscillations. The reliability of model predictions and bifurcation analysis depend on modelling assumptions and specific choices of model parameters; however, the identification of models is highly challenging due to the complexity of biochemical interactions and noise in experimental data.

This paper numerically investigates the use of control-based continuation (CBC) for tracking dynamical features of biochemical systems and, in particular, the bistable dynamics of a gene regulating pluripotency in embryonic stem cells.

CBC is a method that exploits feedback control and path following algorithms to explore the dynamic features of a nonlinear physical system directly during experimental tests. CBC applications have so far been limited to non-living (i.e. electro-mechanical) systems. Our numerical simulations show that, in principle, CBC could also be applied to biological experiments to characterise the switch-like dynamics of genes that are important for cell decision making.
Intraspecific interactions in the annual legume Medicago minima are shaped by both genetic variation for competitive ability and reduced competition among kin
Authors: Tomiolo Sara , Thomas Claire , Jespersen Michael K. , Damgaard Christian F. , Ehlers Bodil K.
Published: July 2019

Knowing which mechanisms drive the outcome of intraspecific interactions is highly relevant for understanding diversity maintenance. Plant species that exhibit strong genetic substructure over small spatial scales may be exposed to frequent interactions with closely related individuals. Predictions of how genetic similarity may drive the outcome of intraspecific interactions are based on two contrasting theories: the resource partitioning hypothesis and kin selection theory. The first predicts that competition will be stronger among closely related conspecific (i.e. kin) because similar genotypes have similar resource requirements. The second predicts instead that competition will be reduced among kin, in order to maximize the inclusive fitness. Although efforts have been made to reconcile these two theories as non-mutually exclusive, the outcomes of intraspecific interaction studies are frequently interpreted as the results of either one or the other. We experimentally tested the hypothesis that intraspecific interactions may be driven by both genetic variation for competitive ability and reduced competition among kin. We used an annual legume, Medicago minima, to conduct two greenhouse experiments testing changes in root behaviour, above-ground growth and biomass in response to neighbour identity. We found evidence of both genetic variation for competitive ability and reduced competition among kin in some genotypes. Reduced competitive growth towards kin was found in the most competitive genotypes, suggesting that kin avoidance and competitive ability were simultaneously affecting plant behaviour and growth. With presence of both kin competition avoidance and variation for competitive ability, the outcome of intraspecific interactions will strongly depend on the local spatial genetic substructure. This is highly relevant to predict how intraspecific competition affect diversity maintenance.
Unravelling native plant resistomes – The Sphagnum microbiome harbours versatile and novel antimicrobial resistance genes
Authors: Obermeier Melanie-Maria , Taffner Julian , Bergna Alessandro , Poehlein Anja , Cernava Tomislav , Müller Christina Andrea , Berg Gabriele
Published: July 2019

The expanding antibiotic resistance crisis calls for a more in depth understanding of the importance of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in pristine environments. We, therefore, studied the microbiota associated with Sphagnum forming the main vegetation in undomesticated, evolutionary old bog ecosystems. In our complementary analysis of a culture collection, metagenomic data and a fosmid library, we identified a low abundant but highly diverse pool of resistance determinants, which targets an unexpected broad range of antibiotics including natural and synthetic compounds. This derives both, from the extraordinarily high abundance of efflux pumps (80%), and the unexpectedly versatile set of ARGs underlying all major resistance mechanisms. The overall target spectrum of detected resistance determinants spans 21 antibiotic classes, whereby β-lactamases and vancomycin resistance appeared as the predominant resistances in all screenings. Multi-resistance was frequently observed among bacterial isolates, e.g. in Serratia, Pandorea, Paraburkhotderia and Rouxiella. In a search for novel ARGs we identified the new class A β-lactamase Mm3. The native Sphagnum resistome comprising a highly diversified and partially novel set of ARGs contributes to the bog ecosystem’s plasticity. Our results shed light onto the antibiotic resistance background of non-agricultural plants and highlight the ecological link between natural and clinically relevant resistomes.
Usefulness of oils for cleaning the host matrix and for cryoprotection of lipidic cubic phase crystals
Authors: Niwa Satomi , Takeda Kazuki
Published: July 2019

The lipidic cubic phase method is an effective approach for membrane protein crystallography. The in meso grown crystals are usually cryocooled directly without removing the host matrix from the harvested crystal surface. However, the host matrix often causes the appearance of scattering rings and an increase in background scattering during the data collection. Moreover, the frozen host matrix sometimes becomes opaque and it can hinder conventional crystal centering. In this study, several oils were examined for their ability to clean the host matrix and to provide cryoprotection for crystals grown in the lipidic cubic phase. Several of the tested oils appeared to be useful in terms of their effect on crystal stability and background scattering. This method should be of value for the collection of highly accurate data sets.
Dynamic mass transfer of textiles in rotational motions
Authors: Li Wenbin , Jiang Yunjing , Jiang Peiqing , Wang Xin
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The mass transfer of textiles during movement is complicated as the energy consumption (EC) from skin, surface temperature of fabrics together with environment will work synergistically to determine the sensation and comfort of wearer. The purpose of this paper is to reveal the mass transfer in the human-textile-environment dynamic system.

Design/methodology/approach

With a simulated hotplate mounted on a rotational testing platform, this paper focuses on the dynamic mass transfer of a fabric so as to simulate the real-time mass transfer of clothing in movements.

Findings

It has been found that the EC and surface temperature (T) change against testing time, indicating the convex and concave shapes of the EC–t and T–t curves. The initial moisture regain of the fabric, rotational speed of the platform and the fiber materials of the fabric have shown a great effect on the dynamic mass transfer process.

Practical implications

Understanding the dynamic mass transfer of textiles will benefit the design of clothing with better comfort and will contribute to the well-being of wearers.

Originality/value

This work reveals the dynamic mass transfer of textiles in rotational movements. It contributes a new approach to studying the mass transfer of clothing in real service.
Understanding Facebook to Instagram migration: a push-pull migration model perspective
Authors: Hou Avus C.Y. , Shiau Wen-Lung
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Emerging social networking sites (SNSs) are less advantageous than leading SNSs in attracting users. They might stand a better chance if they know what users want. The purpose of this paper is to study factors that urge Facebook users to switch to Instagram to reveal how latecomers in the SNSs circuit can win the hearts of users.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes an SNS switching framework that is adapted from the demographic Push-Pull (PP) migration model to investigate users’ switching intention. Structural equation modeling was applied to analyze the data collected from 260 Instagrammers who all had experience using Facebook before moving on Instagram.

Findings

Results show that socializing and system quality of the SNS negatively affect users’ switching intention, while attractiveness of the alternative, peer influence and critical mass do the opposite. Surprisingly, enjoyment is not associated with switching intention.

Research limitations/implications

SNSs switching may not mean a complete abandonment of previous SNSs. In many occasions, users simply become less active in one SNS and more active in other SNSs. The PP migration model provides a useful tool to understand the patterns as well as competing forces that influence the migration of SNS users, pushing them away or pulling them to new alternative sites. Specifically, pulling demonstrates to be a stronger influence than pushing.

Practical implications

This study suggests that SNS operators should satisfy users’ needs for socializing, maintain high system quality, provide peer influence tools and create their own attractive features, in order to retain existing customers or induce new users to switch.

Originality/value

This is one of the earlier empirical studies to investigate users’ switching intention from Facebook to Instagram with a valid sample. In addition, the present study approaches pull and push effects by multiple constructs, providing a clearer picture of what constitutes the pull and push forces.
Ignoring personal moral compass: factors shaping bankers’ decisions
Authors: Thiam Mouhamed El Bachire , Liu Jonathan , Aston John
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to increase our understanding of the challenges the banking industry continues to face from an ethics standpoint more than a decade after the credit crisis. Since 2007, there has been renewed interest in the way professional ethics is integrated within the banking culture. With a public that has become more sensitive towards ethical and corporate governance failures, the banking industry has been at the receiving end of strong ethical criticism. Yet, in spite of the regulatory response to the crisis, ethics is still a major issue in an industry where the corporate governance systems implemented by companies have failed to control employee behaviours, even in institutions branding themselves as ethical banks.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper studies factors inside and around institutions in the banking industry that impact the moral anomie in bankers’ professional environment. This paper applies an ordinary least square regression analysis, preceded by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, to test the hypothesised relations between anomie and the factors proposed.

Findings

The results show that long-term orientation, strategic aggressiveness and competitive intensity do have an influence on anomie. These results are compared to previous research applied in non-financial industries and prompt the strengthening of corporate governance systems in financial companies with aggressive corporate cultures.

Originality/value

The paper therefore introduces the factors that lead bankers to ignore the morals they gained from society and provide a better understanding of the reasons behind the deviant behaviours that caused the crisis a decade ago. It represents a crucial first step for future policymaking that fills an important gap in the financial regulation literature. Indeed, the lack of understanding of the factors dictating behaviours in the industry meant that regulatory changes in the past decade have mostly focussed on technical aspects of the problem (e.g. new capital structure requirements) and produced few answers to address the ethical challenges.
Whole systems approach
Authors: Thompson Juliana , McNall Anne , Tiplady Sue , Hodgson Phil , Proud Carole
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to ascertain primary care advanced clinical practitioners’ (ACP) perceptions and experiences of what factors influence the development and identity of ACP roles, and how development of ACP roles that align with Health Education England’s capability framework for advanced clinical practice can be facilitated in primary care.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was located in the North of England. A qualitative approach was used in which 22 staff working in primary care who perceived themselves to be working as ACPs were interviewed. Data analysis was guided by Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six phase method.

Findings

Five themes emerged from the data – the need for: a standardised role definition and inclusive localised registration; access to/availability of quality accredited educational programmes relevant to primary care and professional development opportunities at the appropriate level; access to/availability of support and supervision for ACPs and trainee ACPs; a supportive organisational infrastructure and culture; and a clear career pathway.

Originality/value

Findings have led to the generation of the Whole System Workforce Framework of INfluencing FACTors (IN FACT), which lays out the issues that need to be addressed if ACP capability is to be maximised in primary care. This paper offers suggestions about how IN FACT can be addressed.
Lower vs higher transfusion threshold in septic shock patients of different ages: A study protocol
Authors: Jonsson Andreas Bender , Granholm Anders , Rygård Sofie Louise , Holst Lars Broksø , Møller Morten Hylander , Perner Anders
Published: July 2019

Background

Current evidence indicates that it is safe to use a lower haemoglobin (Hb) threshold for red blood cell (RBC) transfusion as compared to a higher Hb‐threshold. However, the recent Transfusion Requirements in Cardiac Surgery (TRICS‐3) trial reported a significant interaction between patient age and the effect of lower vs higher Hb‐thresholds for RBC transfusion. The interaction between patient age and transfusion strategy appears to differ between trials.

Methods

This is the protocol and statistical analysis plan for a post hoc analysis of the Transfusion Requirements in Septic Shock (TRISS) trial. We will assess the effect of a lower vs a higher Hb‐threshold for RBC transfusion in patients of different ages with septic shock. The primary and secondary outcomes are 1‐year mortality and 90‐day mortality respectively. We will assess age divided into six age groups and as a continuous variable and present baseline characteristics and odds ratios derived from both simple and adjusted (for the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, haematological malignancy, age and trial site) logistic regression models and P‐values for the test‐of‐interaction. Furthermore, we will compare outcomes according to Hb‐threshold in each age group using Kaplan‐Meier curves and log‐rank tests.

Discussion

The outlined study will make a detailed assessment of potential interaction of patient age with transfusion strategy in patients with septic shock. This may inform future trials on the benefits and harms of RBC transfusion.
(Pro)renin receptor accelerates development of sarcopenia via activation of Wnt/YAP signaling axis
Authors: Yoshida Naohiro , Endo Jin , Kinouchi Kenichiro , Kitakata Hiroki , Moriyama Hidenori , Kataoka Masaharu , Yamamoto Tsunehisa , Shirakawa Kohsuke , Morimoto Satoshi , Nishiyama Akira , Hashiguchi Akihiro , Higuchi Itsuro , Fukuda Keiichi , Ichihara Atsuhiro , Sano Motoaki
Published: July 2019

To extend life expectancy and ensure healthy aging, it is crucial to prevent and minimize age‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy, also known as sarcopenia. However, the disease's molecular mechanism remains unclear. The age‐related Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway has been recently shown to be activated by the (pro)renin receptor ((P)RR). We report here that (P)RR expression was increased in the atrophied skeletal muscles of aged mice and humans. Therefore, we developed a gain‐of‐function model of age‐related sarcopenia via transgenic expression of (P)RR under control of the CAG promoter. Consistent with our hypothesis, (P)RR‐Tg mice died early and exhibited muscle atrophy with histological features of sarcopenia. Moreover, Wnt/β‐catenin signaling was activated and the regenerative capacity of muscle progenitor cells after cardiotoxin injury was impaired due to cell fusion failure in (P)RR‐Tg mice. In vitro forced expression of (P)RR protein in C2C12 myoblast cells suppressed myotube formation by activating Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. Administration of Dickkopf‐related protein 1, an inhibitor of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, and anti‐(P)RR neutralizing antibody, which inhibits binding of (P)RR to the Wnt receptor, significantly improved sarcopenia in (P)RR‐Tg mice. Furthermore, the use of anti‐(P)RR neutralizing antibodies significantly improved the regenerative ability of skeletal muscle in aged mice. Finally, we show that Yes‐associated protein (YAP) signaling, which is coordinately regulated by Wnt/β‐catenin, contributed to the development of (P)RR‐induced sarcopenia. The present study demonstrates the use of (P)RR‐Tg mice as a novel sarcopenia model, and shows that (P)RR‐Wnt‐YAP signaling plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of this disease.
Significant differences between specular microscopy and corneal bank endothelial cell counts – a pilot study
Authors: Rickmann Annekatrin , Boden Katrin E. , Wahl Silke , Jung Sascha , Boden Karl T. , Szurman Peter , Januschowski Kai
Published: July 2019

Background

It was shown recently that endothelial cell count performed by cornea banks overestimates the real number of endothelial cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the internal quality of preclinical ECD in human donor corneas using two widely used methods for endothelial cell counting, transmitted light microscopy used in organ culture tissue bank and clinically used specular microscopy.

Methods

Twenty human donor corneas that could not be transplanted were included in this analysis. Differences in evaluating endothelial cell density (ECD) and hexagonal endothelial cell ratio (HEX) between clinical specular microscopy (CSM) and corneal bank transmitted light microscope (CBLM) were evaluated as well as differences between automated and manual cell counts.

Results

Automated CBLM showed a higher ECD of 31.85% compared to automated CSM, while manual CBLM counting is 10.51% higher compared to manual CSM (p < 0.01). Further, higher average ECD values result in a higher difference between CSM and CBLM measurements. The manual CBLM ECDs were significantly higher compared to automated derived ECD from CSM (p < 0.01). However, no systematic bias can be detected when comparing the differences of the measurements with the average ECD measurements of both methods.

Conclusion

This preclinical pilot study confirmed a significant higher ECD using transmitted light microscopy in organ culture compared to clinical specular microscopy. This indicates that the early rapid decrease of EC universally observed after surgery might be partly artefactual.
Effectiveness of laparoscopic ultrasonography in laparoscopic myomectomy
Authors: Shigeta Mamoru , Kotani Yasushi , Fujishima Risa , Yo Yoshie , Murakami Kosuke , Takaya Hisamitsu , Nakai Hidekatsu , Suzuki Ayako , Tsuji Isao , Matsumura Noriomi
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) has become increasingly common in recent years because it minimizes invasiveness. However, myoma can recur after myomectomy. Therefore, we began using laparoscopic ultrasonography, which involves inserting a probe into the peritoneal cavity via a trocar and placing it in direct contact with the uterus. During surgery, this enables the detection of myomas as a small as 1 mm in diameter, which are often undetectable on MRI. Here, we report the effectiveness of laparoscopic ultrasonography.

Methods

The subjects were 26 women who underwent LM at our institution from February 2015 to December 2016. Preoperative MRI was performed, and all myomas detected on MRI were removed during LM. Laparoscopic ultrasonography was then performed to assess for residual myomas, which were removed.

Results

In six patients (23%), residual myomas were identified on laparoscopic ultrasonography after the first enucleation of the myomas detected on preoperative MRI. All detected residual myomas, the largest of which was less than 10 mm in diameter, were removed.

Conclusion

Small myomas undetectable on preoperative MRI were detected on laparoscopic ultrasonography and removed.
Constructing 3D CSG Models from 3D Raw Point Clouds
Authors: Wu Q. , Xu K. , Wang J.
Published: July 2019

The Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG) tree, encoding the generative process of an object by a recursive compositional structure of bounded primitives, constitutes an important structural representation of 3D objects. Therefore, automatically recovering such a compositional structure from the raw point cloud of an object represents a high‐level reverse engineering problem, finding applications from structure and functionality analysis to creative redesign. We propose an effective method to construct CSG models and trees directly over raw point clouds. Specifically, a large number of hypothetical bounded primitive candidates are first extracted from raw scans, followed by a carefully designed pruning strategy. We then choose to approximate the target CSG model by the combination of a subset of these candidates with corresponding Boolean operations using a binary optimization technique, from which the corresponding CSG tree can be derived. Our method attempts to consider the minimal description length concept in the point cloud analysis setting, where the objective function is designed to minimize the construction error and complexity simultaneously. We demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of our method with extensive experiments on real scan data with various complexities and styles.
Exposure to recurrent hypoglycemia alters hippocampal metabolism in treated streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Dewan Neelesh , Shukla Vibha , Rehni Ashish K. , Koronowski Kevin B. , Klingbeil Kyle D. , Stradecki‐Cohan Holly , Garrett Timothy J. , Rundek Tatjana , Perez‐Pinzon Miguel A. , Dave Kunjan R.
Published: July 2019

Aims

Exposure to recurrent hypoglycemia (RH) is common in diabetic patients receiving glucose‐lowering therapies and is implicated in causing cognitive impairments. Despite the significant effect of RH on hippocampal function, the underlying mechanisms are currently unknown. Our goal was to determine the effect of RH exposure on hippocampal metabolism in treated streptozotocin‐diabetic rats.

Methods

Hyperglycemia was corrected by insulin pellet implantation. Insulin‐treated diabetic (ITD) rats were exposed to mild/moderate RH once a day for 5 consecutive days.

Results

The effect of RH on hippocampal metabolism revealed 65 significantly altered metabolites in the RH group compared with controls. Several significant differences in metabolite levels belonging to major pathways (eg, Krebs cycle, gluconeogenesis, and amino acid metabolism) were discovered in RH‐exposed ITD rats when compared to a control group. Key glycolytic enzymes including hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, and pyruvate kinase were affected by RH exposure.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that the exposure to RH leads to metabolomics alterations in the hippocampus of insulin‐treated streptozotocin‐diabetic rats. Understanding how RH affects hippocampal metabolism may help attenuate the adverse effects of RH on hippocampal functions.
Therapeutic Utility of Discussing Therapist/Client Intersectionality in Treatment: When and How?
Authors: PettyJohn Morgan E. , Tseng Chi‐Fang , Blow Adrian J.
Published: July 2019

The impact of the therapeutic alliance on positive clinical outcomes has been established in the literature; however, literature is lacking on how the intersection of therapist and client identities influences this process. We propose that the relational intersectionality resulting from similarities or differences in therapist and client identities has the potential to impact the bonds, tasks, and goals of treatment (key components of the therapeutic alliance; Bordin, 1979) depending on how it is addressed or avoided in therapy. In this paper, we present a model containing pragmatic steps therapists can follow to navigate these conversations with clients in a way that is therapeutically beneficial and culturally sensitive and attuned. Additionally, we provide suggestions for using the proposed model to train new student therapists (or expose experienced therapists) to ideas of intersectionality and social justice by reflecting on the intersection of their own identities, acknowledging dynamics of power and oppression, and understanding how this could shape their relationship with clients.