bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consequences of negative energy balance on follicular development and oocyte quality in primiparous sows†
Authors: Costermans N G J , Teerds K J , Middelkoop A , Roelen B A J , Schoevers E J , van Tol H T A , Laurenssen B , Koopmanschap R E , Zhao Y , Blokland M , van Tricht F , Zak L , Keijer J , Kemp B , Soede N M
Published: September 2019

Metabolic demands of modern hybrid sows have increased over the years, which increases the chance that sows enter a substantial negative energy balance (NEB) during lactation. This NEB can influence the development of follicles and oocytes that will give rise to the next litter. To study effects of a lactational NEB on follicular development, we used 36 primiparous sows of which 18 were subjected to feed restriction (3.25 kg/day) and 18 were full-fed (6.5 kg/day) during the last 2 weeks of a 24.1 ± 0.3 day lactation. Feed restriction resulted in a 70% larger lactational body weight loss and 76% higher longissimus dorsi depth loss, but similar amounts of backfat loss compared to the full fed sows. These changes were accompanied by lower plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and higher plasma creatinine levels in the restricted sows from the last week of lactation onward. Ovaries were collected 48 h after weaning. Restricted sows had a lower average size of the 15 largest follicles (−26%) and cumulus–oocyte complexes showed less expansion after 22 h in vitro maturation (−26%). Less zygotes of restricted sows reached the metaphase stage 24 h after in vitro fertilization and showed a higher incidence of polyspermy (+89%). This shows that feed restriction had severe consequences on oocyte developmental competence. Follicular fluid of restricted sows had lower IGF1 (−56%) and steroid levels (e.g., β-estradiol, progestins, and androgens), which indicated that follicles of restricted sows were less competent to produce steroids and growth factors needed for oocytes to obtain full developmental competence.
Estrous cycle impacts microRNA content in extracellular vesicles that modulate bovine cumulus cell transcripts during in vitro maturation†
Authors: de Ávila Ana Clara Faquineli Cavalcante Mendes , Bridi Alessandra , Andrade Gabriella Mamede , del Collado Maite , Sangalli Juliano Rodrigues , Nociti Ricardo Perecin , da Silva Junior Wilson Araújo , Bastien Alexandre , Robert Claude , Meirelles Flávio Vieira , Perecin Felipe , da Silveira Juliano Coelho
Published: September 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoparticles secreted by ovarian follicle cells. Extracellular vesicles are an important form of intercellular communication, since they carry bioactive contents, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNAs, and proteins. MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNA capable of modulating mRNA translation. Thus, EVs can play a role in follicle and oocyte development. However, it is not clear if EV contents vary with the estrous cycle stage. The aim of this study was to investigate the bovine miRNA content in EVs obtained from follicles at different estrous cycle stages, which are associated with different progesterone (P4) levels in the follicular fluid (FF). We collected FF from 3 to 6 mm follicles and evaluated the miRNA profile of the EVs and their effects on cumulus-oocyte complexes during in vitro maturation. We observed that EVs from low P4 group have a higher abundance of miRNAs predicted to modulate pathways, such as MAPK, RNA transport, Hippo, Cell cycle, FoxO, oocyte meiosis, and TGF-beta. Additionally, EVs were taken up by cumulus cells and, thus, affected the RNA global profile 9 h after EV supplementation. Cumulus cells supplemented with EVs from low P4 presented upregulated genes that could modulate biological processes, such as oocyte development, immune responses, and Notch signaling compared with genes of cumulus cells in the EV free media or with EVs from high P4 follicles. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that EV miRNA contents are distinct in follicles exposed to different estrous cycle stage. Supplementation with EVs impacts gene expression and biological processes in cumulus cells.
Inference on finite-population treatment effects under limited
overlap
Authors: Hong Han , Leung Michael P , Li Jessie
Published: September 2019

This paper studies inference on finite-population average and local average treatment effects under limited overlap, meaning that some strata have a small proportion of treated or untreated units. We model limited overlap in an asymptotic framework, sending the propensity score to zero (or one) with the sample size. We derive the asymptotic distribution of analogue estimators of the treatment effects under two common randomization schemes: conditionally independent and stratified block randomization. Under either scheme, the limit distribution is the same and conventional standard error formulas remain asymptotically valid, but the rate of convergence is slower the faster the propensity score degenerates. The practical import of these results is two-fold. When overlap is limited, standard methods can perform poorly in smaller samples, as asymptotic approximations are inadequate owing to the slower rate of convergence. However, in larger samples, standard methods can work quite well even when the propensity score is small.
PD-1 Expression and Function of T-Cell Subsets in TILs From Human Lung Cancer
Authors: Gu Yong , Sheng Si Yuan , Tang Ying Ying , Lu Chuan Gang , Zou Jian Yong , Wang Yan Feng , Hong Hai
Published: September 2019

On the basis of the autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) or genetically modified TILs for adoptive cell therapy have received more attention. Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) expression on the T cells exert complex response during the tumor immune response. But the composition and function of PD-1+T-cell subsets in TILs from human lung cancer still limited. In blood and TILs from human lung cancer patients, we confirmed that PD-1 is expressed in higher levels in CD4+T-cell subsets than in CD8+T-cell subsets. To further analyze the function of PD-1+T cells in TILs, we observed the cytokine production in different T-cell subsets. We found that higher interferon-γ and granzyme B production in CD4+/CD8+PD-1+T-cell subsets in TILs than in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs); except for PD-1+Tscm, higher tumor necrosis factor-α production was observed in PD-1+T-cell subsets in TILs than in PBMCs; the expression level of interleukin-17 were lower in PD-1++T cells in TILs than in PBMCs; and perforin expression was significantly reduced in CD4+PD-1+T cells subsets in TILs compared with peripheral blood. Clarify elucidating the composition and function of PD-1+T-cell subsets in TILs will have great value in clinical application for evaluating the sensitivity to PD-1 blockade and selecting the promising candidate T-cell subsets in TILs for combination immunotherapy in human lung cancer.
Estimation of Natural Indirect Effects Robust to Unmeasured Confounding and Mediator Measurement Error
Authors: Fulcher Isabel R. , Shi Xu , Tchetgen Tchetgen Eric J.
Published: September 2019

The use of causal mediation analysis to evaluate the pathways by which an exposure affects an outcome is widespread in the social and biomedical sciences. Recent advances in this area have established formal conditions for identification and estimation of natural direct and indirect effects. However, these conditions typically involve stringent assumptions of no unmeasured confounding and that the mediator has been measured without error. These assumptions may fail to hold in many practical settings where mediation methods are applied. The goal of this article is two-fold. First, we formally establish that the natural indirect effect can in fact be identified in the presence of unmeasured exposure–outcome confounding provided there is no additive interaction between the mediator and unmeasured confounder(s). Second, we introduce a new estimator of the natural indirect effect that is robust to both classical measurement error of the mediator and unmeasured confounding of both exposure–outcome and mediator–outcome relations under certain no interaction assumptions. We provide formal proofs and a simulation study to illustrate our results. In addition, we apply the proposed methodology to data from the Harvard President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program in Nigeria.
Early-life exposure to traffic-related air pollution and child anthropometry
Authors: Sears Clara G. , Mueller-Leonhard Catrina , Wellenius Gregory A. , Chen Aimin , Ryan Patrick , Lanphear Bruce P. , Braun Joseph M.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Early-life exposure to traffic-related air pollution may decrease fetal growth and increase childhood obesity risk. Our objective was to evaluate the relationship of early-life exposure to traffic-related air pollution with birthweight in term newborns and obesity at age 7–8 years in two prospective birth cohorts in Cincinnati, OH (the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment [HOME] Study and Cincinnati Childhood Allergy and Air Pollution Study [CCAAPS]).

Methods:

We estimated elemental carbon attributable to traffic (ECAT) exposure at residential addresses during pregnancy with a validated land use regression model. We assessed birthweight among term infants using birth records or parent report (HOME Study n = 333 and CCAAPS n = 590). We measured children’s weight and height at 7–8 years and calculated age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI) z-scores (HOME Study n = 198 and CCAAPS n = 459). Using multivariable linear regression, we estimated the difference in term birthweight and BMI z-score per interquartile range (IQR) increase in ECAT concentrations in each cohort separately and in the pooled sample.

Results:

In adjusted models, ECAT exposure was not associated with lower birthweight (pooled sample β: 30 g; 95% CI = −6, 66) or with higher BMI z-score (pooled sample β: −0.04; 95% CI = −0.15, 0.08). Infant sex modified the association between ECAT and birthweight (P= 0.05). Among male newborns, higher ECAT concentrations were associated with higher birthweight (β: 61 g; 95% CI = 9, 113), but we observed no association among female newborns (β: −9 g; 95% CI = −58, 41).

Conclusions:

In contrast to some prior studies, early-life traffic-related air pollution exposure was not associated with lower birthweight or increased childhood adiposity in these two cohorts.
Tacrolimus Area Under the Concentration Versus Time Curve Monitoring, Using Home-Based Volumetric Absorptive Capillary Microsampling
Authors: Gustavsen Marte T. , Midtvedt Karsten , Vethe Nils T. , Robertsen Ida , Bergan Stein , Åsberg Anders
Published: September 2019

Background:

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of tacrolimus (Tac) is mandatory in renal transplant recipients (RTxR). Area under the concentration versus time curve (AUC) is the preferred measure for Tac exposure; however, for practical purposes, most centers use trough concentrations as a clinical surrogate. Limited sampling strategies in combination with population pharmacokinetic model–derived Bayesian estimators (popPK-BE) may accurately predict individual AUC. The use of self-collected capillary microsamples could simplify this strategy. This study aimed to investigate the potential of AUC-targeted Tac TDM using capillary microsamples in combination with popPK-BE.

Methods:

A single-center prospective pharmacokinetic study was conducted in standard-risk RTxR (n = 27) receiving Tac twice daily. Both venous and capillary microsamples (Mitra; Neoteryx, Torrance, CA) were obtained across 2 separate 12-hour Tac dosing intervals (n = 13 samples/AUC). Using popPK-BE, reference AUC (AUCref) was determined for each patient using all venous samples. Different limited sampling strategies were tested for AUC predictions: (1) the empiric sampling scheme; 0, 1, and 3 hours after dose and (2) 3 sampling times determined by the multiple model optimal sampling time function in Pmetrics. Agreement between the predicted AUCs and AUCrefwere evaluated using C-statistics. Accepted agreement was defined as a total deviation index ≤±15%.

Results:

The AUC from capillary microsamples revealed high accuracy and precision compared with venous AUCref, and 85% of the AUCs had an error within ±11.9%. Applying microsamples at 0, 1, and 3 hours after dose predicted venous AUCrefwith acceptable agreement. Patients performed self-sampling with acceptable accuracy.

Conclusions:

Capillary microsampling is patient-centered, making AUC-targeted TDM of Tac feasible without extended hospital stays. Samples obtained 0, 1, and 3 hours after dose, combined with popPK-BE, accurately predict venous Tac AUC.
Comparative effects of high-intensity interval training with combined training on physical function markers in obese postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nunes Paulo R. P. , Martins Fernanda M. , Souza Aletéia P. , Carneiro Marcelo A. S. , Nomelini Rosekeila S. , Michelin Márcia A. , Murta Eddie F. C. , de Oliveira Erick P. , Orsatti Fábio L.
Published: September 2019

Objectives:

This study compared the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with effects of combined training (CT) on physical function, body composition, and muscle strength in obese postmenopausal women (PW) (trial registration: NCT03200639).

Methods:

PW were randomized to CT (n = 12) and HIIT (n = 12). The CT group performed 30 minutes of moderate walking at 70% of maximum heart rate (MHR) and five resistance exercises at 70% of one repetition maximum (1RM) for 12 weeks. The HIIT group performed 10 sets of vigorous exercises (30 seconds (s) of stair climbing and 30 s of body weight squats) at >80% MHR interspersed by a light walk (recovery period at 60% MHR).

Results:

Both groups reduced body fat percentage (0.5%), chair stand (3 s) and increased leg lean mass (0.3 kg). Only the CT, however, increased muscle strength (29%) and fast walking speed (5%) compared with HIIT. The fast walking speed changes were partially explained by the muscle strength changes (36%, r = 0.60, P = 0.027) in the CT group.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that HIIT is an alternative time-efficient protocol for improving chair stand and body composition when compared with CT, whereas only CT is an efficient protocol for improving muscular strength and fast walking speed in obese PW. Thus, CT must be prioritized when the increase of muscular strength and fast walking speed are the goals of training.

Video Summary:
Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/MENO/A443.
Effect of Preexisting and Co-Occurring Comorbid Conditions on Recovery in the 5 Years After Rehabilitation for Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Corrigan John D. , Zheng Tianyu , Pinto Shanti M. , Bogner Jennifer , Kean Jacob , Niemeier Janet P. , Guerrier Tami P. , Haaland Benjamin , Horn Susan D.
Published: September 2019

Objective:

To determine the relationship between comorbid health conditions and the trajectory of functional recovery 5 years following traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation.

Setting:

Two acute rehabilitation facilities.

Participants:

A total of 407 patients with primary diagnosis of TBI.

Design:

Prospective, observational.

Main Measures:

Functional Independence Measure Cognitive and Motor scores.

Results:

Female gender was negatively associated with the trajectory of motor recovery (P < .001). TBI severity was negatively associated with both motor and cognitive recovery and interacted with time after injury (both Ps < .0001). Hypertension was negatively associated with both motor (P < .0001) and cognitive (P = .0121) recovery, although this relationship diminished over time for motor function (P = .0447). Cardiac conditions were negatively associated with motor recovery (P = .0204), and rate of cognitive recovery was more rapid for patients with cardiac conditions (P = .0088). Depressed patients recovered cognitive function more quickly than those who were not depressed (P = .0196). Diabetes was negatively associated with motor function (P = .0088). Drug/alcohol use was positively associated with motor function (P = .0036).

Conclusions:

Injury severity remains an important predictor of long-term recovery; however, certain comorbid medical conditions are negatively associated with functional abilities over the first 5 years after injury. Patients being discharged from TBI rehabilitation with comorbid cardiac, hypertensive, diabetic, and/or depressive conditions may benefit from early and ongoing clinical surveillance.
Physician Medical Assessment in a Multidisciplinary Concussion Clinic
Authors: Zasler Nathan , Haider Mohammad N. , Grzibowski Nicholas R. , Leddy John J.
Published: September 2019

Concussive brain injury (CBI) is encountered by clinicians in sports medicine, pediatrics, neurosurgery, neurology, physiatry, and primary care. There is no gold standard diagnostic test for CBI, nor is there consensus on what neuromusculoskeletal physical examination tests should be performed on patients who have sustained CBI. This article presents an approach to the history and physical examination of the patient who has sustained a CBI that is based on a review of the literature evidence and the authors' extensive experience with this patient population. Suggested components include an elemental neurological examination that emphasizes the oculomotor/ophthalmologic and vestibular systems, as well as appropriate musculoskeletal assessment of the craniocervical and upper shoulder girdle complex. The use of supplementary tests for CBI, including assessment of exercise tolerance using the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test and tests of neurocognitive function, can aid in the differential diagnosis of CBI. The proposed protocol is envisioned for initial and follow-up assessments in the clinic after CBI, as well as for those with more protracted signs or symptoms. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks in adults or 4 weeks in adolescents, then referral to a multidisciplinary center that focuses on CBI is recommended.
Self-Reported Lifetime Concussion Among Adults: Comparison of 3 Different Survey Questions
Authors: Daugherty Jill , DePadilla Lara , Sarmiento Kelly , Breiding Matthew J.
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Because of limitations in current national data sets, respondent self-report may be critical to obtaining concussion prevalence estimates. We examined whether self-report of lifetime concussion among adults varies with the provision of a concussion definition and by the content of that definition.

Setting and Participants:

A convenience sample of 6427 American adults who participated in the 2018 Porter Novelli SpringStyles survey.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Main Measures:

Frequency of self-reported concussion by variation in concussion definition.

Results:

A quarter of respondents (28.9%) reported experiencing a concussion in their lifetime. While concussion prevalence varied by demographic characteristics, it did not vary significantly by concussion definition. Variation in concussion definition did not result in differences related to recency of last concussion, mechanism of injury, or respondent activity engaged in during which they sustained their most recent concussion.

Conclusion:

The current study suggested that in this sample of adults, the percentage reporting a concussion did not significantly vary by whether a concussion definition was provided or by the content of the definition. However, research suggests that prompting about mechanism of injury, listing symptoms individually, and considering only athletic populations may affect estimates and these factors should be included in future question comparisons.
Innate immune response to bacterial urinary tract infection sensitises high-threshold bladder afferents and recruits silent nociceptors
Authors: Brierley Stuart M. , Goh Kelvin G.K. , Sullivan Matthew J. , Moore Kate H. , Ulett Glen C. , Grundy Luke
Published: September 2019

The bladder is innervated by primary afferent nerve fibres that detect bladder distension and, through projections into the spinal cord, provide sensory input to the central nervous system circuits regulating bladder sensation and function. Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) bacteria are the primary cause of urinary tract infection (UTI) in adults, inducing clinical symptoms characterised by exaggerated bladder sensation, including urgency, frequency, and pelvic pain. However, the mechanisms underlying UTI-induced modulation of bladder afferent function are yet to be explored. Here, we isolated supernatants from the bladders of female mice acutely infected with UPEC (strain CFT073), or those sham-treated with phosphate buffered saline. Supernatants were then applied into the bladder lumen of healthy donor mice, and multiunit bladder afferent nerve responses to distension measured ex-vivo. Supernatant constituents from UPEC or sham-treated mice were analysed using a mouse cytokine multiplex assay. Supernatants from UPEC-infected mice significantly enhanced bladder afferent firing to distension in the absence of changes in muscle compliance. Further evaluation revealed that UPEC supernatants exclusively sensitised high-threshold bladder mechanoreceptors to graded bladder distension and also recruited a population of “silent nociceptors” to become mechanosensitive, thereby amplifying bladder afferent responses to physiological stimuli. UPEC supernatants contained significantly elevated concentrations of a range of cytokines released from innate immune cells, including but not limited to TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IFN-gamma, and MCP-1. These data provide novel mechanistic insight into how UPEC-mediated UTI induces bladder hypersensitivity and the symptoms of frequency, urgency, and pelvic pain.
Rigid Mini-Thoracoscopy Versus Semirigid Thoracoscopy in Undiagnosed Exudative Pleural Effusion
Authors: Bansal Shweta , Mittal Saurabh , Tiwari Pavan , Jain Deepali , Arava Sudheer , Hadda Vijay , Mohan Anant , Malik Prabhat , Pandey Ravindra Mohan , Khilnani Gopi C. , Guleria Randeep , Madan Karan
Published: September 2019

Background:

There is debate regarding the ideal instrument for medical thoracoscopy. The authors compared rigid mini-thoracoscopy with semirigid thoracoscopy for thoracoscopic pleural biopsy.

Methods:

Consecutive subjects with undiagnosed exudative pleural effusion were randomized (1:1 ratio) to mini-thoracoscopy or semirigid thoracoscopy groups. The primary objective was a comparison of the diagnostic yield of pleural biopsy. Key secondary outcomes were the comparison of sedative/analgesic dose, operator-rated and patient-rated pain on visual analog scale (VAS), operator-rated overall procedural satisfaction (VAS), pleural biopsy size, and complications between the groups.

Results:

Of the 88 screened subjects, 73 were randomized: 36 to mini-thoracoscopy and 37 to semirigid thoracoscopy. Diagnostic yield of pleural biopsy in the mini-thoracoscopy (69.4%) and semirigid thoracoscopy groups (81.1%) was similar on intention-to-treat analysis (P=0.25). Although the operator-rated overall procedure satisfaction scores were similar between groups (P=0.87), operator-rated pain [VAS (mean±SD), 43.5±16.7 vs. 31.7±15.8; P<0.001] and patient-rated pain (VAS, 41.9±17.3 vs. 32.1±16.5; P=0.02) scores were greater in the mini-thoracoscopy group. Mean dose of fentanyl and midazolam received was similar between the 2 groups (P=0.28 and 0.68, respectively). Biopsy size was larger in the mini-thoracoscopy group (16.1±4.5 vs. 8.3±2.9 mm; P<0.001). Three minor complications occurred in the mini-thoracoscopy group and 6 in the semirigid thoracoscopy group (P=0.11). There were no serious adverse events or procedure-related mortality.

Conclusion:

Diagnostic yield of rigid mini-thoracoscopy is not superior to semirigid thoracoscopy. Use of semirigid thoracoscope may provide greater patient comfort.
International Nursing: Use of a Commercially Available Smartphone Application to Solve Information Needs of Orthopedic Scrub Nurses
Authors: Park Hyunhee , Lee Seonah
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this article is to describe the use of a commercially available smartphone application to solve information needs of scrub nurses in orthopedic surgery. A semistructured, focus group interview was conducted with orthopedic scrub nurses. These nurses had solved their information needs about orthopedic surgery by using a commercially available smartphone application. Because of smartphone technology's convenience, accessibility, mobility, ease of use, and use at no charge, it is worth considering in nursing practice, education, and research.
Creativity and Innovation
Authors: Snow Francine
Published: September 2019

Innovation keeps an organization competitive and adaptive to change. Nurse leaders are looking for new ways to innovate and transform, being challenged to influence quality, design new care delivery models, and create workplaces that empower nurses to advance new ideas that lead to innovation. Innovation involves risk as well as new ways of thinking. The workforce must feel confident that a creative approach to problem-solving is valued and supported. The nurse leader must role model use of creative approaches to problem-solving and promote a spirit of innovation among today's workforce. The nurse leader can learn to be more creative and can use education to empower staff to use creative thinking techniques to solve problems in practice. The transformational nurse leader can use any one or more of the tools and techniques offered in this article to inspire and educate the workforce on creative approaches to problem-solving and ultimately to generate innovative solutions to real practice problems.
Dupuytren, Ledderhose, and Peyronie Diseases After Primidone Use For Essential Tremor
Authors: Vasconcellos Luiz Felipe R. , Nassif Daniel , Spitz Mariana
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

Dupuytren, Ledderhose, and Peyronie diseases are chronic fibrotic conditions related to progressive fibrosis of the palmar fascia, plantar fascia, and tunica albuginea, respectively. These conditions have been associated with antiepileptic drug use, mainly phenobarbital and primidone.

Case Report:

A 71-year-old man developed simultaneous Dupuytren, Ledderhose, and Peyronie diseases after primidone use for essential tremor.

Conclusions:

There are a few reports associating barbiturate use to connective tissue disorders, and some suggest that drug withdrawal may result in a better prognosis. Therefore, physicians must be aware of such adverse events when caring for patients on long-term barbiturate use.
Calreticulin Mutation by Immunohistochemistry: Can It Replace PCR?
Authors: Gupta Aastha , Sazawal Sudha , Mahapatra Manoranjan , Pati Hara P. , Saxena Renu
Published: September 2019

Before 2013, the diagnosis of about 30% to 45% cases of primary myelofibrosis (PMF) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) posed a diagnostic difficulty because of the missing reliable clonal marker. Calreticulin (CALR) mutation was identified as a recurrent mutation in about 60% to 88% of JAK2/MPL-negative PMF and ET. Molecular methods like Sanger sequencing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are considered gold standard, but they have limited availability, complex techniques, and labor intensive. In contrast to molecular methods, immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a widely available, rapid, simple, and cost-effective option. There are only few studies evaluating the utility of IHC for CALR mutation detection. Hence, we studied the role of IHC in CALR mutation detection and compared it with PCR. Thirty-one JAK2V617F-negative PMF and ET were evaluated for CALR mutation status. PCR was done and interpreted by comparing bands with the expected product size. The bone marrow biopsy was simultaneously put up for IHC using antimutated CALR monoclonal antibody (CAL2). CALR mutation was detected in 64.5% (20/31) cases. Prevalence of CALR mutation in JAK2-negative PMF and ET was 60.9% (14/23) and 75% (6/8), respectively. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of IHC analyzed were 89.4%, 100%, 100%, and 84.6%, respectively. A very good level of agreement (κ=0.86) was observed between PCR and IHC. We suggest that IHC is the best screening test to detect CALR mutation in resource limited countries with limited availability and affordability of molecular methods.
Outcomes and Predictors of Revision Labiaplasty and Clitoroplasty after Gender-Affirming Genital Surgery
Authors: Boas Samuel R. , Ascha Mona , Morrison Shane D. , Massie Jonathan P. , Nolan Ian T. , Shen Jacson K. , Vyas Krishna S. , Satterwhite Thomas
Published: September 2019

Background:

Penile inversion vaginoplasty is the most common gender-affirming procedure for transfeminine patients. Patients undergoing this procedure may require revision labiaplasty and clitoroplasty. This study describes complications and outcomes from the largest reported cohort in the United States to undergo penile inversion vaginoplasty with subsequent revision labiaplasty and/or clitoroplasty.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed of a single surgeon’s experience with penile inversion vaginoplasty with or without revision labiaplasty and/or clitoroplasty between July of 2014 and June of 2016 in a cohort of gender-diverse patients assigned male at birth. Patient demographic data, complications, and quality of life data were collected. Univariate and multivariate comparisons were completed.

Results:

A total of 117 patients underwent penile inversion vaginoplasty. Of these, 28 patients (23.9 percent) underwent revision labiaplasty and/or clitoroplasty, with nine patients (7.7 percent) undergoing both procedures. Patients who underwent penile inversion vaginoplasty necessitating revision were significantly more likely to have granulation tissue (p = 0.006), intravaginal scarring (p < 0.001), and complete vaginal stenosis (p = 0.008). The majority of patients who underwent revision labiaplasty and/or clitoroplasty reported satisfaction with their final surgical outcome (82.4 percent) and resolution of their genital-related dysphoria (76.5 percent).

Conclusions:

Patients who developed minor postoperative complications following penile inversion vaginoplasty were more likely to require revision surgery to address functional and aesthetic concerns. Patients responded with high levels of satisfaction following revision procedures, with the majority of patients reporting resolution of genital-related dysphoria. Transfeminine patients who undergo penile inversion vaginoplasty should be counseled on the possibility of revisions during their postoperative course.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, III.
Alterations in NKG2A and NKG2C Subsets of Natural Killer Cells Following Epstein–Barr Virus Reactivation in CTLA4Ig-based Haploidentical Transplantation Is Associated With Increased Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease
Authors: Jaiswal Sarita Rani , Bhakuni Prakash , Bhagwati Gitali , Aiyar Hema Malini , Chakrabarti Aditi , Chakrabarti Suparno
Published: September 2019

Background.

The impact of newer approaches to haploidentical transplantation on Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is largely unknown.

Methods.

We prospectively evaluated the incidence of EBV reactivation and its impact on transplantation outcomes in 71 patients undergoing haploidentical transplantation with posttransplantation cyclophosphamide in combination with CTLA4Ig-based T-costimulation blockade.

Results.

Eight patients developed EBV reactivation at a median of 96 days with no incidence of lymphoproliferative disorder. There was no impact of EBV reactivation on acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), nonrelapse mortality, progression-free, or overall survival. Despite an overall incidence of 19%, there was a significant increase in chronic GVHD following EBV reactivation (62.5% versus 8%; P = 0.01). NKG2Apos subset of CD56dim natural killer cells increased substantially and persisted following EBV reactivation and chronic GVHD, with a reciprocal decrease in NKG2Cpos subset, whereas the reverse was witnessed in those without chronic GVHD (P < 0.01). Increase in NKG2Cpos subset and a decrease in the NKG2Apos subset were witnessed within 3 months of subsidence of chronic GVHD.

Conclusions.

Thus, CTLA4Ig-based haploidentical transplantation was associated with a low incidence of EBV reactivation without EBV-lymphoproliferative disorder. However, EBV reactivation was associated with a sustained alteration in NKG2A and NKG2C subsets of CD56dim natural killer cells which might have a pathogenic role in chronic GVHD.
Constrictive Pericarditis After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Armstrong Jenna L. , Wojnarski Charles M. , Choi Ashley Y. , Hartwig Matthew G. , Klapper Jacob A. , Haney John C. , Milano Carmelo A. , Daneshmand Mani A.
Published: September 2019

Background.

Constrictive pericarditis is a rare, but increasingly recognized long-term postoperative complication of lung transplantation. Heightened clinical suspicion, improved diagnostic imaging, and effective surgical treatment of the disease have led to progressive awareness of the pathology. We present our institutional experience with constrictive pericarditis after lung transplant in an effort to investigate the cause and natural history of the disease.

Methods.

From October 2005 to October 2018, 1234 patients underwent orthotopic lung transplantation at Duke University Hospital. An institutional database was queried to identify incident patients and determine baseline clinical data. At a median of 11.2 months (interquartile range = 4.6–28.6 mo), 10 patients (0.8%) developed constrictive pericarditis. Simple descriptive statistics were used to describe cohort characteristics and identify variables associated with constrictive pericarditis after lung transplantation.

Results.

The indication for transplantation at index operation was idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in 8 of 10 patients (1.2% of the 760 restrictive lung disease patients transplanted in the same time period). All 10 patients presented with worsening dyspnea and pleural effusions. Right heart catheterization confirmed constrictive physiology in all cases. Eight patients underwent pericardiectomy with improvement in cardiovascular hemodynamics and resolution of symptoms with no 30-day mortality.

Conclusions.

Diagnosis of constrictive pericarditis should be considered in patients with new-onset heart failure symptoms or recurrent pleural effusions within 2 years of lung transplantation. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may be associated with increased risk for constrictive pericarditis. Pericardiectomy is a safe and effective treatment for posttransplant constrictive pericarditis.
Slepyan's dynamic contribution to studies of fracture
Authors: Marder M.
Published: September 2019

After a brief review of atomistic theories of defect dynamics in solids, a summary of Slepyan's first computation of dynamic fracture in a lattice is presented. Some of the main extensions and clarifi- cations of the original physical picture are then summarized. Many molecular dynamics simulations of fracture would benefit if Slepyan's work were better known.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Modelling of dynamic phenomena and localization in structured media (part 1)’.
Determinants of agri-lending in Kenya
Authors: Maloba Michelle , Alhassan Abdul Latif
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that influence financial institutions’ lending to the agricultural sector in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a panel data of 15 licensed financial institutions (commercial banks and deposit-taking microfinance institutions) from 2011 to 2016. The random effects and ordinary least squares panel corrected standard errors estimation techniques are employed to estimate the effect of liquidity, size, equity, lending rate (LR), type of financial institution and non-performing loans on agri-lending.

Findings

The results indicate that only 3.9 per cent of loan portfolio of the sampled financial institutions were advanced to the agricultural sector over the study period. From the panel regression analysis, the paper finds agricultural credit risk to reduce lending to the agricultural sector while size, LR and type of financial institution were observed to significantly increase agricultural lending. Compared to 2011, agri-lending was also observed to have declined between 2012 and 2015.

Practical implications

The findings highlight important indicators for enhancing lending to the agricultural sector in Kenya and other emerging economies.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are concerned, this presents the first empirical evidence on the determinants of agri-lending by financial institutions in Kenya.
Bank diversification strategy and intellectual capital in Ghana: an empirical analysis
Authors: Duho King Carl Tornam , Onumah Joseph Mensah
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of intellectual capital and its components on bank diversification choice.

Design/methodology/approach

Both asset and income diversification are computed and an unbalanced panel data set of 32 banks covering the period 2000–2015 have been used. The panel corrected standard error regression has been used to account for serial correlation and heteroscedasticity.

Findings

The study found that intellectual capital determines the choice of diversifying. Precisely, intellectual capital motivates asset diversity but it dissuades income diversification. Human capital and structural capital are major components that determine asset diversity decisions. Income diversification decision, in this case to choose a focus strategy, is determined by human capital. This gives credence for the human capital theory in Ghana. Competition encourages a focus strategy. Bank size and leverage enhances income diversification while stock exchange listing and government ownership fosters the focus strategy.

Practical implications

Diversification strategy, knowledge base of staff, corporate governance and internal control have been considered as factors leading to the collapse of some Ghanaian banks in 2017–2018. The study provides relevant insights for regulators, decision support units and corporate boards. Intellectual capital and value added metrics should be used for modelling and decision making as they have value relevance.

Originality/value

This is a premier study that has examined the nexus between diversification strategy and intellectual capital in banks.
The usage of green building concept to reduce operating costs (study case of PT. Prodia Widyahusada)
Authors: Tjenggoro Felix Novendra , Prasetyo Khusnul
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasize green building concept usage and its effect on operating costs and uses Grha Prodia, a building with a green concept owned by PT. Prodia Widyahusada.

Design/methodology/approach

This research will test whether Grha Prodia could earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification based on the aspects that it has and it will also compare the operating costs of Grha Prodia with Prodia Tower. The two main theories used in this research are cost and green building.

Findings

The result of this research is Grha Prodia is considered as a green building and it could earn LEED certification if the current aspects are continuously implemented and maintained.

Originality/value

Moreover, it can fulfill all prerequisite credits in each criterion and further enhance it by fulfilling optional credits in all criteria available. Grha Prodia is also able to demonstrate lower operating costs than a regular building, with 63 percent less water usage and 53 percent less electricity usage.
The effect of enterprise risk management (ERM) on firm value in manufacturing companies listed on Indonesian Stock Exchange year 2010-2013
Authors: Iswajuni Iswajuni , Manasikana Arina , Soetedjo Soegeng
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the effect of enterprise risk management (ERM) with firm size, ROA and managerial ownership as control variables on firm value that is proxied by Tobin’s Q.

Design/methodology/approach

Population of this research was manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange (IDX) in 2010–2013. The used method in this research is multiple linear regression-ordinary least square and hypotheses testing using t-test to test the regression coefficients with level of significance of 5 percent.

Findings

The results showed that ERM, ROA and size of the company have a significant positive effect on the firm value. While the managerial ownership has a significant negative effect on the firm value.

Originality/value

The results showed that firm value increases as ERM, ROA and size of the company improves. While the managerial ownership has a significant negative effect on the firm value.
Evaluating factors of profitability for Indian banking sector: a panel regression
Authors: Bansal Rohit , Singh Arun , Kumar Sushil , Gupta Rajni
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to quantify several measures to examine the determinants of profitability for the listed Indian banks. The authors include both public sector (PSUs) and private sector’s banks in the study. The authors have taken all the banks that are registered on the Bombay stock exchange (BSE) in the sample. This paper also intends to identify the association between the net profit margin (PM) and return on assets (ROA) with the several other independent variables of the Indian banking sector including private banks and public banks over the past six years starting from April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2017. Therefore, a sample of 39 listed banking companies and total 195 balanced observations are selected for the analysis purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used profitability as a dependent variable represented by net PM, ROA and several financial ratios as independent variables. Financial statement and income statement of all listed banks were obtained from BSE and particular company’s website. Panel data regression has been analyzed with both the descriptive research techniques, i.e., fixed effects and random effects. The authors also verified both panel techniques with Hausman’s specification test, which is a widely used procedure for selecting a panel effect. The authors applied PP – Fisher χ2, PP – Choi Z-statistics and Hadri to testing whether the data set is free from unit root problem and data set is a stationary series.

Findings

Results imply that interest expended interest earned (IEIE) and credit deposit ratio (CRDR) reduced the profitability of private banks in India. IEIE, CRDR and quick ratio (QR) reduced the profitability of public banks in India, while cash deposit ratio (CDR) and Advances to Loan Funds (ALF) increased the effectiveness of public banks. Under the total banks IEIE, CRDR reduced the profitability, on the other side, CDR, ALF and Total Debt to Owners Fund (TDOF) increased the profitability of total banks in India. Under the dependency of ROA, CRDR and TDOF reduced the return of private banks in India, while CDR, ALF and QR enhanced the profitability of private banks.

Originality/value

No variables found significant under public banks while taking ROA as a dependent variable. Under the overall banking data, CRDR reduced the profitability. On the other side, capital adequacy ratio and ALF increased the profitability of total banks in India. The findings of this study will support policy creators, financial executives and investors in constructing investment decisions.
Developing an Accounting Textbook Using Collaborative Learning and IFRS for Senior High School Students in Indonesia
Authors: Irafahmi Diana Tien , Sulastri Sulastri
Published: September 2019

The 2013 curriculum mandates the importance of collaborative learning designed to educate students to be more productive, creative, and innovative with a high level of affective skills. Collaborative learning can be manifested in the form of a textbook. This research is aimed at developing an accounting textbook in accordance with the mandate of the 2013 curriculum. The selected model is IDI which consists of three main phases: defining, developing and evaluating. The methods chosen are interview, observation, and document review which are analyzed qualitatively. The research was conducted in 4 senior high schools in Malang. The finding shows that at defining phase, there is a need to develop an accounting textbooks using collaborative learning and corresponding to the new accounting standards, namely IFRS. Therefore, at the developmental phase, we construct a prototype book ready to be evaluated. The result of evaluation phase shows that the textbook is valid on the overall aspects including the content, the presentation, the graphic, and the language, with an average percentage of 93.7%.
Request for information frequency and their turnaround time in construction projects
Authors: Aibinu Ajibade A. , Carter Simon , Francis Valerie , Vaz-Serra Paulo
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the nature of request for information (RFIs) on construction projects by using data analytics to understand the frequency of RFIs, when they occur on projects, and the relationship between project characteristics and frequency of RFIs and between project characteristics and RFI turnaround time.

Design/methodology/approach

A data-analytic approach using RStudio and Minitab software on 168 construction project cases in Australia and New Zealand involving 1,032,949 correspondences and 53,042 RFI event records made available by Aconex, one of the world largest cloud-based project management platform.

Findings

Large and complex projects tend to have significantly larger number of RFI events per day and longer RFI turnaround when compared with smaller and less complex projects. Projects with fewer users per organisation recorded a higher RFI turnaround time when compared with projects with more users per organisation – users mean persons involved in managing the project using the online platform (an index of project complexity). RFIs occur early on less complex projects and occur later on more complex projects.

Research limitations/implications

Benchmarks of RFI incidences and turnaround time have been developed for various project characteristics and, practitioners can use them to monitor the RFI performance of projects. Organisations need to pay greater attention to staffing levels needed to handle RFIs to reduce RFI turnaround time.

Originality/value

A data-analytic study of RFI yielded insights for managing RFIs. The findings of previous studies on RFIs are difficult to generalise because they are based on single project case study. The influence of project characteristics on RFI frequency and RFI turnaround time is not yet known.