bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Adaptive Bungee Trampolining for Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Single-Subject Study
Authors: Germain Ashleigh M. , Blackmore A. Marie , Gibson Noula , Newell Becky , Williams Sîan A. 
Published: March 2019

Purpose:
To assess effects of adaptive bungee trampoline training for children with cerebral palsy.

Methods:
This was a single-subject intervention study, A-B-A, with 4 children aged 6 to 11 years. Measurements included muscle strength, balance, functional muscle strength, functional mobility, selected Gross Motor Function Measure items, heart rate, enjoyment, and for adverse effects—range of motion and spasticity. Goals were measured using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure.

Results:
Lower limb muscle strength improved in 3 children, and balance and functional strength in 2 children. The child who was not walking increased sitting and supported standing times. All participants had clinically significant increases on the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Adherence and enjoyment were high, with no adverse effects.

Conclusion:
Adaptive bungee trampoline training can improve strength, balance, and functional mobility in children with cerebral palsy.
Does Weight Status Impact Metabolic Health in Adolescents When Controlling for Physical Fitness?
Authors: Stolzman Stacy C. , Skelton Joseph , Harkins April , Hoeger Bement Marie 
Published: March 2019

Purpose:
To determines whether adolescents who are fit with overweight/obesity are similar in their metabolic profile to adolescents who are fit and normal weight.

Methods:
Adolescents participated in 3 sessions: (1) resting vitals and anthropometrics; (2) maximal aerobic treadmill test (

JOURNAL/ppyty/04.03/00001577-201904000-00003/3MMU1/v/2023-08-23T235932Z/r/image-gif

) to determine physical fitness; and (3) dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and fasting laboratory draw for analysis of insulin, glucose, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein.

Results:
Of the 30 fit adolescents who are normal weight and 16 adolescents who are fit and overweight/obese (OW/OB), metabolic syndrome was apparent in 1 adolescent who are normal weight and 4 adolescents who are OW/OB. Metabolic syndrome severity was positively associated with body mass index, waist circumference, total body fat, insulin resistance, and C-reactive protein but inversely associated with peak relative, but not lean

JOURNAL/ppyty/04.03/00001577-201904000-00003/3MMU1/v/2023-08-23T235932Z/r/image-gif

.

Conclusions:
Despite good physical fitness, adolescents who are OW/OB demonstrated greater metabolic syndrome than adolescents who are normal weight. Future intervention research is necessary to explore the relation between physical fitness and metabolic syndrome.
Stochastic models of polymerization based axonal actin transport
Authors: Chakrabarty Nilaj , Jung Peter 
Published: March 2019

AbstractPulse-chase and radio-labeling studies have shown that actin is transported in bulk along the axon at rates consistent with slow axonal transport. In a recent paper, using a combination of live cell imaging, super resolution microscopy and computational modeling, we proposed that biased polymerization of metastable actin fibers (actin trails) along the axon shaft forms the molecular basis of bulk actin transport. The proposed mechanism is unusual, and can be best described as molecular hitch hiking, where G-actin molecules are intermittently incorporated into actin fibers which grow preferably in anterograde direction giving rise to directed transport, released after the fibers collapse only to be incorporated into another fiber. In this paper, we use our computational model to make additional predictions that can be tested experimentally to further scrutinize our proposed mechanism for bulk actin transport. In the previous paper the caliber of our model axon, the density of the actin nucleation sites to form the metastable actin fibers, the length distribution of the actin trails and their growth rate were adapted to the biologic axons used for measurements. Here we predict how the transport rate will change with axon caliber, density of nucleation sites, nucleation rates and trail lengths. We also discuss why a simple diffusion-based transport mechanism can not explain bulk actin transport.
Voice Patterns in Schizophrenia: A systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alberto Parola , Arndis Simonsen , Vibeke Bliksted , Riccardo Fusaroli 
Published: March 2019

AbstractVoice atypicalities have been a characteristic feature of schizophrenia since its first definitions. They are often associated with core negative symptoms such as flat affect and alogia, and with the social impairments seen in the disorder. This suggests that voice atypicalities may represent a marker of clinical features and social functioning in schizophrenia. We systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed the evidence for distinctive acoustic patterns in schizophrenia, as well as their relation to clinical features. We identified 46 articles, including 55 studies with a total of 1254 patients with schizophrenia and 699 healthy controls. Summary effect sizes (Hedges’g and Pearson’s r) estimates were calculated using multilevel Bayesian modeling. We identified weak atypicalities in pitch variability (g= - 0.55) related to flat affect, and stronger atypicalities in proportion of spoken time, speech rate, and pauses (g’s between -0.75 and -1.89) related to alogia and flat affect. However, the effects were mostly modest (with the important exception of pause duration) compared to perceptual and clinical judgments, and characterized by large heterogeneity between studies. Moderator analyses revealed that tasks with a more demanding cognitive and social component showed larger effects both in contrasting patients and controls and in assessing symptomatology. In conclusion, studies of acoustic patterns are a promising but, yet unsystematic avenue for establishing markers of schizophrenia. We outline recommendations towards more cumulative, open, and theory-driven research.
Srrm234, but not canonical SR and hnRNP proteins drive inclusion of Dscam exon 9 variable exons
Authors: Ustaoglu Pinar , Haussmann Irmgard U. , Liao Hongzhi , Torres-Mendez Antonio , Arnold Roland , Irimia Manuel , Soller Matthias 
Published: March 2019

AbstractAlternative splicing of pre-mRNA is a major mechanism to diversify protein functionality in metazoans from a limited number of genes. In the Drosophila melanogaster Down Syndrome Cell Adhesion Molecule (Dscam) important for neuronal wiring up to 38,016 isoforms can be generated by mutually exclusive alternative splicing in four clusters of variable exons. However, it is not understood how a specific exon is chosen from the many variables and how variable exons are prevented from being spliced together. A main role in the regulation of Dscam alternative splicing has been attributed to RNA binding proteins, but how they impact on exon selection is not well understood. Serine-arginine-rich (SR) proteins and hnRNP proteins are the two main types of RNA binding proteins with major roles in exon definition and splice site selection. Here, we analyzed the role of SR and hnRNP proteins in Dscam exon 9 alternative splicing in mutant Drosophila melanogaster embryos because of their essential function for development. Strikingly, loss or overexpression of canonical SR and hnRNP proteins even when multiple proteins are depleted together, does not affect Dscam alternative exon selection very dramatically. Conversely, non-canonical SR protein Serine-arginine repetitive matrix 2/3/4 (Srrm234) is a main determinant of exon inclusion in Dscam exon 9 cluster. Since long-range base-pairings are absent in the exon 9 cluster, our data argue for a small complement of regulatory factors as main determinants of exon inclusion in the Dscam exon 9 cluster.
Leveraging non-human primate multisensory neurons and circuits in assessing consciousness theory
Authors: Noel Jean-Paul , Ishizawa Yumiko , Patel Shaun R. , Eskandar Emad N. , Wallace Mark T. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractBoth the Global Neuronal Workspace (GNW) and Integrated Information Theory (IIT) posit that highly complex and interconnected networks engender perceptual awareness. GNW specifies that activity recruiting fronto-parietal networks will elicit a subjective experience, while IIT is more concerned with the functional architecture of networks than with activity within it. Here, we argue that according to IIT mathematics, circuits converging on integrative vs. convergent yet non-integrative neurons should support a greater degree of consciousness. We test this hypothesis by analyzing a dataset of neuronal responses collected simultaneously from primary somatosensory cortex (S1) and ventral premotor cortex (vPM) in non-human primates presented with auditory, tactile, and audio-tactile stimuli as they are progressively anesthetized with Propofol. We first describe the multisensory (audio-tactile) characteristics of S1 and vPM neurons (mean and dispersion tendencies, as well as noise-correlations), and functionally label these neurons as convergent or integrative according to their spiking responses. Then, we characterize how these different pools of neurons behave as a function of consciousness. At odds with the IIT mathematics, results suggest that convergent neurons more readily exhibit properties of consciousness (neural complexity and noise correlation) and are more impacted during the loss of consciousness than integrative neurons. Lastly, we provide support for the GNW by showing that neural ignition (i.e., same trial co-activation of S1 and vPM) was more frequent in conscious than unconscious states. Overall, we contrast GNW and IIT within the same single-unit activity dataset, and support the GNW.
Epha1 is a cell surface marker for neuromesodermal progenitors and their early mesoderm derivatives
Authors: de Lemos Luisa , Dias André , Nóvoa Ana , Mallo Moisés 
Published: March 2019

ABSTRACTThe vertebrate body is built during embryonic development by the sequential addition of new tissue as the embryo grows at its caudal end. During this process, the neuro-mesodermal progenitors (NMPs) generate the postcranial neural tube and paraxial mesoderm. Recently, several approaches have been designed to determine their molecular fingerprint but a simple method to isolate NMPs from embryos without the need for transgenic markers is still missing. We isolated NMPs using a genetic strategy that exploits their self-renew properties, and searched their transcriptome for cell surface markers. We found a distinct Epha1 expression profile in progenitor-containing areas of the mouse embryo, consisting of two cell subpopulations with different Epha1 expression levels. We show that Sox2+/T+cells are preferentially associated with the Epha1 compartment, indicating that NMPs might be contained within this cell pool. Transcriptional profiling showed enrichment of high Epha1-expressing cells in known NMP and early mesoderm markers. Also, tail bud cells with lower Epha1 levels contained a molecular signature suggesting the presence of notochord progenitors. Our results thus indicate that Epha1 could represent a valuable cell surface marker for different subsets of axial progenitors, most particularly for NMPs taking mesodermal fates.
Developing a routine lab test for absolute quantification of Her2 in Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) breast cancer tissues using Quantitative Dot Blot (QDB) method
Authors: Yu Guohua , Zhang Wenfeng , Zhang Yunyun , Lv Jiahong , Zhang Jiandi , Tang Fangrong 
Published: March 2019

AbstractWhile the transition from current prevailing method of relative and semi-quantitative assessment of solid tumor biomarkers to their absolute quantitation promises improved objectivity, consistency and accuracy in daily clinical practice, this transition is hindered by lacking of suitable technique, especially for Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) tissue samples. In this retrospective study, Quantitative Dot Blot (QDB) method was adopted to measure Her2 levels absolutely and quantitatively at protein level using 2X15 μm FFPE breast cancer tissue slices collected sequentially and non-selectively from local hospital. Her2 levels measured from 332 samples using two diagnostic antibodies respectively were strongly correlated (r=0.963, p=0.0000). When the result was evaluated with results from IHC or FISH analysis using Receiving Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis, we were able to achieve 100% sensitivity (95% CI: 95.6% to 100%) and 99.3% specificity (95% CI: 96.14% to 99.98%) with results from IHC analysis using 0.267 nmole/g as cutoff, and 93.02% sensitivity (95%CI: 80.94% to 98.54%) and 93.68% specificity (95% CI: 86.76% to 97.65%) with results from FISH analysis using 0.261 nmole/g as cutoff. Thus, QDB method is demonstrated to provide objective and consistent assessment of Her2 levels in FFPE samples with comparable results from both IHC and FISH analyses. It is also the first method to achieve absolute quantitation of tissue biomarkers in FFPE samples to meet daily clinical need.
Laser Recording of Subcellular Neuron Activities
Authors: Chen Yu-Cheng , Li Xuzhou , Zhu Hongbo , Weng Wei-Hung , Tan Xiaotian , Chen Qiushu , Wang Xueding , Fan Xudong 
Published: March 2019

AbstractAdvances in imaging and recording of neural activities with a single neuron resolution have played a significant role in understanding neurological diseases in the past decade. Conventional methods relying on patch-clamp and electrodes are regarded as invasive, whereas fluorescence-based imaging tools are useful but still suffer from a low signal-to-noise ratio and low sensitivity. Here we developed a novel optical imaging and recording system by employing laser emissions to record the action potentials in single neurons and neuronal networks caused by subtle transients (Ca2+concentration) in primary neuronsin vitrowith a subcellular and single-spike resolution. By recording the laser emissions from neurons, we discovered that lasing emissions could be biologically modulated by intracellular activities and extracellular stimulation with >100-fold improvement in detection sensitivity over traditional fluorescence-based measurement. Finally, we showed that ultrasound can wirelessly activate neurons adsorbed with piezoelectric BaTiO3nanoparticles, in which the neuron laser emissions were modulated by ultrasound. Our findings show that ultrasound stimulation can significantly increase the lasing intensity and neuron network response. This work not only opens the door to laser emission recording of intracellular dynamics in neuronal networks but may provide an ultra-sensitive detection method for brain-on-chip applications, optogenetics, and neuro-analysis.
Examining consumers’ luxury hotel stay repurchase intentions-incorporating a luxury hotel brand attachment variable into a luxury consumption value model
Authors: Peng Norman , Chen Annie 
Published: March 2019

Purpose
Luxury consumption research has focused more on the consumers of goods than services, despite the trend that consumers are more interested in luxury services, such as luxury hospitality services, than ever before. Additionally, the results regarding the factors that can influence consumers’ luxury service product purchase intentions can be further tested. The purpose of this research is to examine the factors that contribute to consumers’ luxury hotel stay repurchase intentions, to further develop the luxury hospitality service consumption literature and to identify implications for practitioners to consider.

Design/methodology/approach
To contribute to the luxury consumption literature, this research incorporates a “luxury hotel brand attachment” variable into a luxury consumption value model to examine consumers’ intentions to repurchase luxury hotel stays when traveling for tourism purposes. The authors draw on a survey of over 450 luxury hotel consumers.

Findings
The findings confirm that luxury hotels’ perceived functional value, hedonic value and symbolic/expressive value affect consumers’ emotions, which in turn affects their luxury hotel attachment and repurchase intentions. In addition, luxury hotel attachment moderates the influence of emotion on repurchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach
Luxury hotels need to review their customers’ emotions during their stay and their attachment with the hotel. These factors can influence customers’ repurchase intentions. To stimulate customers’ emotions, luxury hotels need to offer functional value (e.g. attentive service staff), hedonic/expressive value (e.g. position as a form of self-indulgence) and symbolic value (e.g. conspicuous lobby). However, managers should know that having superior perceived functional value does not influence customers’ repurchase intentions directly. These characteristics may be commonly shared by most luxury hotels. Furthermore, they do not need to be too worried about providing financial value (e.g. value-for-money).

Originality/value
This study conceptualizes tourists’ luxury hotel stay intentions by examining the influence of perceived luxury value (i.e. functional value, financial value, hedonic value and symbolic/expressive value), tourists’ emotions and luxury hotel brand attachment. In addition, this research explores how luxury hotel brand attachment can moderate the relationship between consumers’ emotions and their repurchase intentions. Several implications of the study are identified, and avenues for future research are suggested.
Drop down or flee out?
Authors: Rapaport Carmit , Ashkenazi Isaac 
Published: March 2019

PurposeThe official earthquake protection instructions for schools and kindergartens in Israel have recently been updated from the traditional “drop, cover and hold on” approach to the “flee outside to an open space” approach. This paper aims to describe the decision-making process, discuss the dilemmas behind it and suggest new insights for challenging current instructions in other countries.Design/methodology/approachThe authors analyze human behavior patterns during earthquakes in general, and at schools in particular, while taking into consideration the environment (in terms of applying building codes and the level of earthquake risk in various zones), personal characteristics (age, gender and past experience) and earthquake characteristics (intensity and duration).FindingsFive aspects should be taken into consideration when changing current earthquake instructions: the general official earthquake protection instructions, the structure and construction of schools and kindergartens, common behavior during emergencies, warning systems and the need to establish standardized protection instructions and guidelines for every school and kindergarten in the country.Practical implicationsPolicymakers in other countries should critique current instructions to maximize citizens’ chances of survival and mitigate possible earthquake hazards, including by improving risk communication with the public.Originality/valueThe paper describes a national decision-making process which questions current official earthquake instructions at schools and kindergartens, based on evidence gained from current construction conditions, human behavior analysis and other countries’ experiences.
Legal family, cultural dimensions, and FDI
Authors: Steigner Tanja , Riedy Marian K. , Bauman Antonina 
Published: March 2019

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the interaction between legal origin and cultural distance and its impact on foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into the OECD.Design/methodology/approachOrdinary least squares regression analysis is used to evaluate FDI flows into OECD countries between 2003 and 2012. Estimations use fixed effects and clustered standard errors.FindingsFDI flows from civil to common law countries are greater than vice versa. Further, cultural distance impacts FDI flows depending on the legal origin of the source country. Specifically, more FDI flows from civil and common law countries, when the host country has a higher (lower) power distance (individualism) score. Civil law countries send more FDI into countries with higher masculinity, uncertainty avoidance and indulgence scores and with lower long-term orientation scores. The opposite is the case with common law source countries. The findings remain robust for various changes to the sample selection.Research limitations/implicationsThe concepts of cultural distance and legal origin have been criticized. However, neither concept has been rejected; rather, both concepts persist as robust empirical research tools.Practical implicationsScholars, managers and investors can gauge the impact of cultural distance on FDI flows based on the legal family of the source country. Further, policy makers might want to consider rebranding their countries in terms of cultural perceptions to show the attractiveness of specific cultural dimensions to foreign companies and investors.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that jointly investigates FDI, legal origin and national culture.
A systemic inquiry into the delay factors in South African electrical distribution projects
Authors: Ntshangase Bonga , Tuan Nien-Tsu 
Published: March 2019

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the delay factors in South African electrical distribution projects and demonstrate the interlaced relationship between the identified project delay factors.Design/methodology/approachThis research employs interactive management (IM) methodology to construct a model achieving the research purpose. The IM methodology is anchored in the soft systems thinking. Its inquiry process mainly comprises four phases: idea generation, idea clarification, idea structuring and interpretation of the structured ideas. The IM methodology allows the relevant stakeholders to collaboratively develop a digraph displaying the interrelationship among the system elements.FindingsThe participants of the IM session structured a systemic model showing that a loop comprising three factors is the driver leading to the delays in the electrical distribution projects. The three delay factors in the loop are “poor communication”, “poor planning” and “project scheduling not properly done”.Originality/valueThe findings show that a loop comprising three delay factors is the driver leading to the project delays. This result is different from the outputs of the commonly used approaches. The three identified root causes serve as the starting point for eradicating delays in the electrical distribution projects.