bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DT‐based relaying scheme for fault classification in transmission lines using MODP
Authors: Taheri Mir Mohammad , Seyedi Heresh , Mohammadi‐ivatloo Behnam
Published: March 2017

In this study, a novel intelligent relaying scheme is proposed for fault classification and faulted phase selection using magnitude of differential power (MODP). The DP is the multiplication of difference between the magnitude of the real and estimated voltage and current phasors. The MODP for each phase is used as an input data to the data mining model known as decision tree (DT). The DT is used to generate thresholds to detect and classify the faults, since determination of robust thresholds is an important challenge in protective relay engineering. The proposed method has been tested for different operating modes of single‐circuit transmission line in Simulink/MATLAB software. Simulation results indicate that the proposed method is able to detect and classify the faults with acceptable accuracy, in less than half cycle.
Segmentation of large images based on super‐pixels and community detection in graphs
Authors: Linares Oscar A.C. , Botelho Glenda Michele , Rodrigues Francisco Aparecido , Neto João Batista
Published: March 2017

Image segmentation has many applications which range from machine learning to medical diagnosis. In this study, the authors propose a framework for the segmentation of images based on super‐pixels and algorithms for community identification in graphs. The super‐pixel pre‐segmentation step reduces the number of nodes in the graph, rendering the method the ability to process large images. Moreover, community detection algorithms provide more accurate segmentation than traditional approaches based on spectral graph partition. The authors also compared their method with two algorithms: (i) the graph‐based approach by Felzenszwalb and Huttenlocher and (ii) the contour‐based method by Arbelaez. Results have shown that their method provides more precise segmentation and is faster than both of them.
Reverse recognition of body postures using on‐body radio channel characteristics
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Fang Meiling , Ren Aifeng , Zhang Zhiya , Abbasi Qammer Hussain , Alomainy Akram , Mehran Kamyar , Hao Yang
Published: March 2017

The problem of posture detection is of considerable significance for assisted living (AL). In most cases, radio channel models for wireless body area network (WBANs) are fixed when a specific body posture is considered. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, little work has been done on the reverse body posture information extraction using WBAN radio channel characteristics. This study aims to classify human postures from on‐body narrowband wireless channel information. It is demonstrated that by applying the random forest (RF) classification technique, the action of the human body can be detected. The classification error is perfectly acceptable for RF algorithm. Two propagation environments were compared and the results indicate that the classification error is less in the anechoic chamber (21.39%). In summary, this study provides a novel approach to detect human body postures by using body‐centric wireless channel information, and will be beneficial for AL.
Practical investigation of multiband mono‐ and bistatic radar signatures of wind turbines
Authors: Fioranelli Francesco , Ritchie Matthew , Balleri Alessio , Griffiths Hugh
Published: March 2017

The negative effects wind farm clutter has on the performance of radar systems for air traffic control and air surveillance is well known in the radar research community and several mitigation techniques have been proposed to address this problem. These include bi‐ and multistatic radar systems providing multiple views of the area under surveillance, and hence potential additional information that can be used to improve the receiver performance. This study presents the analysis of a set of experimental data collected simultaneously by two radar systems, one operating at S‐band and one at X‐band, of echoes from an operational wind farm in the UK near Oxford. This analysis presents several parameters extracted from the time domain data and the Doppler spectra, such as Doppler centroid and bandwidth of the micro‐Doppler signature as well as amplitude statistics of the time domain returns. These parameters are characterised using data recorded at mono‐ and bistatic nodes, as well as at different polarisation combinations.
Conformation and electronic structure of DNA in carbon nanotubes: a molecular dynamics and first‐principles study
Authors: Goujun Zha , Fayun Zhang
Published: March 2017

The conformation and electronic structure of DNA in single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) were studied by combining molecular dynamics and first‐principles methods. It was found that the π orbital of the SWCNT inner wall induces a conformational change in single stranded DNA (ssDNA) and promotes the adsorption of general‐sequence oligonucleotides on the inner walls of the SWCNTs due to π –π stacking interactions. Moreover, they found that the adsorbed oligonucleotides form a helix because of electrostatic and torsional interactions within the sugar–phosphate backbone.
Beyond white light: optical enhancement in conjunction with magnification colonoscopy for the assessment of mucosal healing in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Iacucci Marietta , Kiesslich Ralf , Gui Xianyong , Panaccione Remo , Heatherington Joan , Akinola Oluseyi , Ghosh Subrata
Published: March 2017

Background and study aim The I-SCAN optical enhancement (OE) system with magnification is a recently introduced combination of optical and digital electronic virtual chromoendoscopy, which enhances mucosal and vascular details. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the use of I-SCAN OE in the assessment of inflammatory changes in ulcerative colitis (UC).

Patients and methods A total of 41 consecutive patients with UC and 9 control patients were examined by I-SCAN OE (Pentax Medical, Tokyo, Japan). Targeted biopsies of the imaged areas were obtained. A new optical enhancement score focusing on mucosal and vascular changes was developed. The diagnostic accuracy of I-SCAN OE was calculated against histology using two UC histological scores – Robarts Histopathology Index (RHI) and ECAP (Extent, Chronicity, Activity, Plus additional findings).

Results The overall I-SCAN OE score correlated with ECAP (r = 0.70; P < 0.001). The accuracy of the overall I-SCAN OE score to detect abnormalities by ECAP was 80 % (sensitivity 78 %, specificity 100 %). I-SCAN OE vascular and mucosal scores correlated with ECAP (r = 0.65 and 0.71, respectively; P < 0.001). The correlation between overall I-SCAN OE score and RHI was r = 0.61 (P < 0.01), and the accuracy to detect abnormalities by RHI was 68 % (sensitivity 78 %, specificity 50 %). The majority of patients with Mayo 0 had abnormalities on I-SCAN OE.

Conclusion In UC, the new I-SCAN OE technology accurately identified mucosal inflammation, and correlated well with histological scores of chronic and acute changes.
MetCirc: navigating mass spectral similarity in high-resolution MS/MS metabolomics data
Authors: Naake Thomas , Gaquerel Emmanuel
Published: March 2017

Among the main challenges in metabolomics are the rapid dereplication of previously characterized metabolites across a range of biological samples and the structural prediction of unknowns from MS/MS data. Here, we developed MetCirc to comprehensively align and calculate pairwise similarity scores among MS/MS spectral data and visualize these across a range of biological samples. MetCirc comprises functionalities to interactively organize these data according to compound familial groupings and to accelerate the discovery of shared metabolites and hypothesis formulation for unknowns. As such, MetCirc provides a significant advance to address biological questions in areas where chemodiversity plays a role.

Availability and Implementation

MetCirc, implemented in the open-source R language, together with its vignette are available in the Bioconductor project and at https://github.com/PlantDefenseMetabolism/MetCirc.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Crowdsourcing to Evaluate Fundus Photographs for the Presence of Glaucoma
Authors: Wang Xueyang , Mudie Lucy I. , Baskaran Mani , Cheng Ching-Yu , Alward Wallace L. , Friedman David S. , Brady Christopher J.
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

To assess the accuracy of crowdsourcing for grading optic nerve images for glaucoma using Amazon Mechanical Turk before and after training modules.

Materials and Methods:

Images (n=60) from 2 large population studies were graded for glaucoma status and vertical cup-to-disc ratio (VCDR). In the baseline trial, users on Amazon Mechanical Turk (Turkers) graded fundus photos for glaucoma and VCDR after reviewing annotated example images. In 2 additional trials, Turkers viewed a 26-slide PowerPoint training or a 10-minute video training and passed a quiz before being permitted to grade the same 60 images. Each image was graded by 10 unique Turkers in all trials. The mode of Turker grades for each image was compared with an adjudicated expert grade to determine accuracy as well as the sensitivity and specificity of Turker grading.

Results:

In the baseline study, 50% of the images were graded correctly for glaucoma status and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) was 0.75 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.64-0.87]. Post-PowerPoint training, 66.7% of the images were graded correctly with AUROC of 0.86 (95% CI, 0.78-0.95). Finally, Turker grading accuracy was 63.3% with AUROC of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.83-0.96) after video training. Overall, Turker VCDR grades for each image correlated with expert VCDR grades (Bland-Altman plot mean difference=−0.02).

Conclusions:

Turkers graded 60 fundus images quickly and at low cost, with grading accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, all improving with brief training. With effective education, crowdsourcing may be an efficient tool to aid in the identification of glaucomatous changes in retinal images.
Can Claims Data Algorithms Identify the Physician of Record?
Authors: DuGoff Eva H. , Walden Emily , Ronk Katie , Palta Mari , Smith Maureen
Published: March 2017

Background:

Claims-based algorithms based on administrative claims data are frequently used to identify an individual’s primary care physician (PCP). The validity of these algorithms in the US Medicare population has not been assessed.

Objective:

To determine the agreement of the PCP identified by claims algorithms with the PCP of record in electronic health record data.

Data:

Electronic health record and Medicare claims data from older adults with diabetes.

Subjects:

Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries with diabetes (N=3658) ages 65 years and older as of January 1, 2008, and medically housed at a large academic health system.

Measures:

Assignment algorithms based on the plurality and majority of visits and tie breakers determined by either last visit, cost, or time from first to last visit.

Results:

The study sample included 15,624 patient-years from 3658 older adults with diabetes. Agreement was higher for algorithms based on primary care visits (range, 78.0% for majority match without a tie breaker to 85.9% for majority match with the longest time from first to last visit) than for claims to all visits (range, 25.4% for majority match without a tie breaker to 63.3% for majority match with the amount billed tie breaker). Percent agreement was lower for nonwhite individuals, those enrolled in Medicaid, individuals experiencing a PCP change, and those with >10 physician visits.

Conclusions:

Researchers may be more likely to identify a patient’s PCP when focusing on primary care visits only; however, these algorithms perform less well among vulnerable populations and those experiencing fragmented care.
Application of telepractice for head and neck cancer management: a review of speech language pathology service models
Authors: Ward Elizabeth C. , Wall Laurelie R. , Burns Clare L. , Cartmill Bena , Hill Anne J.
Published: March 2017

Purpose of review

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a complex and heterogeneous disease, requiring specialist intervention from a multidisciplinary team including speech language pathology (SLP). Unfortunately, multiple patient and service-related challenges exist which currently limit equitable access to SLP support for all individuals. This review highlights the existing evidence for different telepractice models designed to help patients and services optimize management of swallowing and communication disorders arising from HNC.

Recent findings

Emerging evidence exists for using computerized screening to enhance the identification of treatment-related toxicities and assist referrals to services, including SLP. Asynchronous telepractice applications are being used to assist delivery of intensive home-based dysphagia therapy, whereas videoconferencing can offer a feasible and effective method to support ongoing management for patients with limited access to local specialist SLP services. Patient and clinician satisfaction with all models has been high.

SLP services can be redesigned to incorporate a range of telepractice models to optimize clinical care at different stages of the HNC survivorship pathway. Early evidence supports telepractice can improve patient access to services, enhance outcomes, and optimize health service efficiency; however, further systematic research is needed into these models, particularly relating to large-scale implementation and costs/economic analyses.
Pediatric enteric neuropathies: diagnosis and current management
Authors: Westfal Maggie L. , Goldstein Allan M.
Published: March 2017

Purpose of review

Neurointestinal diseases are increasingly recognized as causes of significant gastrointestinal morbidity in children. This review highlights the most common pediatric enteric neuropathies and their diagnosis and management, emphasizing insights and discoveries from the most recent literature available.

Recent findings

The embryologic and histopathologic causes of enteric neuropathies are varied. They range from congenital aganglionosis in Hirschsprung disease, to autoimmune-mediated loss of neuronal subtypes in esophageal achalasia and Chagas disease, to degenerative neuropathies in some cases of chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction and gastroparesis. Increased awareness of the clinical presentation and diagnostic evaluation of these conditions is essential as it allows for earlier initiation of treatment and improved outcomes. Most current therapies, which include medical management, neurostimulation, and operative intervention, aim to minimize the symptoms caused by these conditions. The evidence base for many of these treatments in children is poor, and multiinstitutional prospective studies are needed. An innovative therapy on the horizon involves using neuronal stem cell transplantation to treat the underlying disorder by replacing the missing or damaged neurons in these diseases.

Although recent advances in basic and clinical neurogastroenterology have significantly improved our awareness and understanding of enteric neuropathies, the efficacy of current treatment approaches is limited. The development of novel therapies, including pharmacologic modulators of neurointestinal function, neurostimulation to enhance gut motility, and neuronal cell-based therapies, is essential to improve the long-term outcomes in children with these disorders.
Evaluation of probiotic cream by in-vitro tests for treatment of bacterial vaginosis conditions
Authors: Mogha Kanchan V. , Prajapati Jashbhai B.
Published: March 2017

Probiotic bacteria are used to treat broad range of gastrointestinal and/or vaginal disorders. A vaginal cream containing probiotic Lactobacillus helveticus (Microbial Type Culture Collection) MTCC 5463 was developed to treat vaginal infections. The effectiveness of probiotic cream was compared with market creams (usually prescribed by doctors) by performing different in-vitro tests, that is, hydrophobicity, arginine deiminase assay, inhibition of vaginal pathogens, ability to produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2),lactic acid production, antibiotic susceptibility against various antibiotics used for treating bacterial vaginosis, and reduction in pH. The probiotic cream showed maximum reduction in pH (4.32), amount of H2O2 (87.94 μmo/l), arginine deiminase activity (1.56), d-lactic acid (3.62 mg/g), and l-lactic acid (2.27 mg/g) compared with all other market creams.
An In Vitro Assessment of the Efficacy of Various IV Cannulas for the Rapid IV Fluid Administration
Authors: Kamata Mineto , Walia Hina , Hakim Mumin , Tumin Dmitry , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

The current study prospectively evaluates the administration of fluid through commonly used vascular cannulas of various length and diameter.

Design:

Observational, in vitro experiment.

Setting:

Not applicable.

Subjects:

No human subjects.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Fluid (500 mL) was administered via gravity flow and with pressure assistance (pressure bag set at 300 mm Hg) through various vascular cannulas including peripheral IV catheters (22 gauge, 1 inch; 20 gauge, 1.16 and 1.88 inch; and 18 gauge, 1.16 and 1.88 inch), 3-Fr central line lumens (lengths 50, 80, and 120 mm), and a 4-Fr, 10 cm Micropuncture catheter (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN). During gravity flow, drain time decreased by approximately 50% when moving from a 22 to 20 to 18 gauge cannula and increased by approximately 20% as the catheter length increased from 50 to 80 to 120 cm. Flow rates were highest with the Micropuncture catheter, which achieved a drain time of 2.7 minutes for the 500 mL bag when infused with pressure assistance.

Conclusions:

In general, the delivery of crystalloid solutions through commonly used vascular cannulas was fastest with larger diameter and shorter length cannulas. Pressure-assisted flow was able to partially compensate for the increased resistance with smaller and longer catheters. The unique design of the tip of the Micropuncture catheter compensated for the increased length and allowed for rapid fluid delivery. This design may compensate for the increased length when longer catheters are needed for ultrasound-guided placement.
MELF Pattern for Predicting Lymph Node Involvement and Survival in Grade I-II Endometrioid-type Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Sanci Muzaffer , Güngördük Kemal , Gülseren Varol , Karadeniz Tuğba , Kocaer Mustafa , Gungorduk Ozgu , Özdemir İsa A.
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the associations between microcystic, elongated, and fragmented (MELF) pattern and other prognostic factors and lymph node involvement, disease-free survival, and overall survival (OS) using a case-control group consisting of grade I-II endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC) patients with/without lymph node involvement. The files of the patients were searched electronically for all hysterectomy specimens with a diagnosis of grade I-II EEC of the uterine body from January 1, 2008 to July 31, 2014. Lymph node involvement was detected in 27 patients who were histologically diagnosed with grade I-II EEC, and these patients made up the case group. Using a dependent random sampling method, 28 grade I-II EEC patients without lymph node involvement were selected. According to multivariate regression analysis, lymphovascular space invasion [odds ratio, 23.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.4–223.5] and MELF pattern (odds ratio, 13.3; 95% CI, 1.4–121.8) were significant predictors of lymph node involvement. There was recurrence in 15.8% of cases that showed a MELF pattern and in 19.4% of those that did not (P=0.738). According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, the MELF pattern revealed no significant differences in disease-free survival (hazard ratio, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.1–36.5), whereas the effect on OS was significant (hazard ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.3–4.2). The presence of MELF pattern was a substantial risk factor for detecting lymph node involvement in patients with grade I-II EEC. The MELF pattern may be important for identifying which patients need staging surgery, in addition to its effect on the OS.
Sarcomatous Component in Uterine Carcinosarcomas Correlates With Advanced Stage and Poorer Prognosis
Authors: Podoll Mirna B. , Moghadamfalahi Mana , Faber Erin , Bishop Julie Anne , Alatassi Houda
Published: March 2017

Uterine carcinosarcomas, also known as malignant-mixed mullerian tumors, are rare and highly aggressive tumors whose prognostic factors remain controversial. The stage at the time of presentation is the most important prognostic factor thus far, but little information exists on the prognostic impact of the sarcomatous component (SC) in these tumors. We reviewed 21 cases of uterine carcinosarcomas and estimated the volume of the SC in each case. This information was correlated with the stage of the tumor at presentation. The percentage of the SC was also used to stratify the patients into 2 cohorts (high percentage of SC and low percentage of SC), and the 2 patient cohorts were compared based on the available follow-up data to identify prognostic differences. Patients with a lower concentration of SC (<30%) typically presented with low stage of disease when compared with their counterparts. Although not statistically significant (P=0.1966), our data suggest a correlation between a lower concentration of SC with longer follow-up and longer survival rates when compared with those of patients presenting with higher volumes of the SC (≥30%). Greater volume of the SC is seen in advanced stage tumors, which could serve as an indicator of prognosis.
Microscopic Heterotopic Extraovarian Sex Cord–Stromal Proliferations: Expanding the Histologic Spectrum
Authors: Longworth Aisling , Ganesan Raji , Yoong Adrian K.H. , Hirschowitz Lynn
Published: March 2017

Microscopic, heterotopic extraovarian sex cord–stromal proliferations have only recently been reported in the literature. We describe the largest series to date, of 30 cases of microscopic, incidentally detected, heterotopic extraovarian sex cord–stromal proliferation, in women aged 25–79 yr who had undergone surgery for a range of benign and malignant gynecologic conditions. In 14 patients the foci of proliferation comprised ovarian cortical stroma, in some cases with an ovarian fibroma-like appearance. Ten cases of adenofibroma and cystadenofibroma were also identified, including 1 Brenner adenofibroma; 2 cases comprised both ovarian cortical stroma and serous cystadenofibroma; 4 cases showed sex cord proliferation resembling microscopic adult granulosa cell tumors. Immunohistochemistry, where possible, confirmed the sex cord nature of the heterotopic proliferations. The foci of proliferation were <1–7 mm, and most were at the fimbrial end of the fallopian tube. These proliferations are likely to be encountered with increasing frequency as we sample the adnexa more extensively. Previous reports postulated that the proliferations probably represent embryonic rests caused by anomalous migration but we suggest that incorporation of exposed ovarian parenchymal tissue into the fimbrial stroma at the time of ovulation may be another possible cause.
Advantages of Robotic Right Colectomy With Intracorporeal Anastomosis
Authors: Lujan Henry J. , Plasencia Gustavo , Rivera Brian X. , Molano Andres , Fagenson Alex , Jane Louis A. , Holguin Diego
Published: March 2017

Through retrospective review of consecutive charts, we compare the short-term and long-term clinical outcomes after robotic-assisted right colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis (RIA) (n=89) and laparoscopic right colectomy with extracorporeal anastomosis (LEA) (n=135). Cohorts were similar in demographic characteristics, comorbidities, pathology, and perioperative outcomes (conversion, days to flatus and bowel movement, and length of hospitalization). The RIA cohort experienced statistically significant: less blood loss, shorter incision lengths, and longer specimen lengths than the LEA cohort. Operative times were significantly longer for the RIA group. No incisional hernias occurred in the RIA group, whereas the LEA group had 5 incisional hernias; mean follow-up was 33 and 30 months, respectively. RIA is effective and safe and provides some clinical advantages. Future studies may show that, in obese and other technically challenging patients, RIA facilitates resection of a longer, consistent specimen with less mesentery trauma that can be extracted through smaller incisions.
TheDrosophilaEmbryo at Single Cell Transcriptome Resolution
Authors: Karaiskos Nikos , Wahle Philipp , Alles Jonathan , Boltengagen Anastasiya , Ayoub Salah , Kipar Claudia , Kocks Christine , Rajewsky Nikolaus , Zinzen Robert P.
Published: March 2017

Drosophilais a premier model system for understanding the molecular mechanisms of development. By the onset of morphogenesis, ~6000 cells express distinct gene combinations according to embryonic position. Despite extensive mRNAin situscreens, combinatorial gene expression within individual cells is largely unknown. Therefore, it is difficult to comprehensively identify the coding and non-coding transcripts that drive patterning and to decipher the molecular basis of cellular identity. Here, we single-cell sequence precisely staged embryos, measuring >3100 genes per cell. We produce a ‘transcriptomic blueprint’ of development – a virtual embryo where 3D locations of sequenced cells are confidently identified. Our “Drosophila-Virtual-Expression-eXplorer” performs virtual in situ hybridizations and computes expression gradients. Using DVEX, we predict spatial expression and discover patterned lncRNAs. DEVX is sensitive enough to detect subtle evolutionary changes in expression patterns betweenDrosophilaspecies. We believe DVEX is a prototype for powerful single cell studies in complex tissues.
Methods to Reduce Sea Turtle Interactions in the Atlantic Canadian Pelagic Long Line Fleet
Authors: Sherker Zachary T.
Published: March 2017

This project investigates the role of fisheries management in the conservation of loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea),both of which are currently listed as vulnerable by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). These species migrate from nesting grounds in South America to feed on gelatinous zooplankton (jellyfish) in the North Atlantic off the coast of the United States and Canada. The seasonal foraging grounds of sea turtles heavily overlap with areas of high fishing effort for the longline tuna and swordfish fleet, a fishery that has significantly high rates of sea turtle incidents. The dynamic nature of sea turtle foraging patterns renders static spatio-temporal fishing area closures ineffective. Rather, turtle by-catch mitigation requires small-scale, event-triggered closures and decentralized management to reduce incidents while minimizing the negative socio-economic impact of area closures on fishermen. A number of methods that increase fishing selectivity have been implemented in other commercial fisheries around the globe and are suggested for the Atlantic Canadian fleet moving forward.
Efficacy of land use designation in protecting habitat in the miombo woodlands: Insights from Tanzania
Authors: Lobora Alex L. , Nahonyo Cuthbert L. , Munishi Linus K. , Caro Tim , Foley Charles , Beale Colin M.
Published: March 2017

Loss of natural landscapes surrounding major conservation areas compromise their future and threaten long-term conservation. We evaluate the effectiveness of fully and lesser protected areas within Katavi-Rukwa and Ruaha-Rungwa ecosystems in south-western Tanzania to protecting natural landscapes within their boundaries over the past four decades. Using a time series of Landsat satellite imageries of September 1972, July 1990 and September 2015, we assess the extent to which natural habitat has been lost within and around these areas mainly through anthropogenic activities. We also test the viability of the remaining natural habitat to provide connectivity between the two ecosystems. Our analysis reveals that while fully protected areas remained intact over the past four decades, lesser protected areas lost a combined total area of about 5,984 km2during that period which is about 17.5% of habitat available in 1972. We also find that about 3,380 km2of natural habitat is still available for connectivity between the two ecosystems through Piti East and Rungwa South Open Areas. We recommend relevant authorities to establish conservation friendly village land use plans in all villages surrounding and between the two ecosystems to ensure long-term conservation of these ecosystems.
Communicability systematically explains transmission speed in a cortical macro-connectome
Authors: Shimono Masanori , Hatano Naomichi
Published: March 2017

Global dynamics in the brain can be captured using fMRI, MEG, or electrocorticography (ECoG), but models are often restricted by anatomical constraints. Complementary single-/multi-unit recordings have described local fast temporal dynamics. However, because of anatomical constraints, global fast temporal dynamics remain incompletely understood. Therefore, we compared temporal aspects of cross-area propagations of single-unit recordings and ECoG, and investigated their anatomical bases. First, we demonstrated how both evoked and spontaneous ECoGs can accurately predict latencies of single-unit recordings. Next, we estimated the propagation velocity (1.0–1.5 m/s) from brain-wide data and found that it was fairly stable among different conscious levels. We also found that the anatomical topology strongly predicted the latencies. Finally,Communicability,a novel graph-theoretic measure, could systematically capture the balance between shorter or longer pathways. These results demonstrate that macro-connectomic perspective is essential for evaluating detailed temporal dynamics in the brain.

Author Summary

This study produced four main findings: First, we demonstrated that ECoG signals could predict the timing of evoked electrical spikes of neurons elicited by visual stimuli. Second, we showed that spontaneous ECoG recorded under a blindfold condition (without any stimuli) could also predict the timing of visually evoked neuronal spikes. We also clarified that performance predictions from blindfold data are essentially supported by the constraints of structural paths. Third, we quantified the propagation velocity (conductance velocity) as 1.0–1.5 m/s, and found that the velocity was stable among different conscious levels. Fourth,Communicabilitysuccessfully characterized the relative contributions of shorter and longer paths. This study represents an important contribution to the theoretical understanding of the brain in terms of connectomics, dynamical propagations, and multi-scale architectures.
The maternal environment interacts with genetic variation in regulating seed dormancy inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kerdaffrec Envel , Nordborg Magnus
Published: March 2017

Seed dormancy is a complex adaptive trait that controls the timing of seed germination, one of the major fitness components in many plant species. Despite being highly heritable, seed dormancy is extremely plastic and influenced by a wide range of environmental cues. Here, using a set of 92Arabidopsis thalianalines from Sweden, we investigate the effect of seed maturation temperature on dormancy variation at the population level. The response to temperature differs dramatically between lines, demonstrating that genotype and the maternal environment interact in controlling the trait. By performing a genome-wide association study (GWAS), we identified several candidate genes that could account for this plasticity, two of which are involved in the photoinduction of germination. Altogether, our results provide insight into both the molecular mechanisms and the evolution of dormancy plasticity, and can serve to improve our understanding of environmentally dependent life-history transitions.

Highlight

The effect of low seed-maturation temperatures on seed dormancy is highly variable inArabidopsis thalianaaccessions from Sweden, denoting strong genotype-environment interactions, and a genome-wide association study identified compelling candidates that could account for this plasticity.
Deciphering the combinatorial influence of diet and the microbiota on experimental colitis
Authors: Llewellyn Sean R. , Britton Graham J. , Contijoch Eduardo J. , Mortha Arthur , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Grinspan Ari , Clemente Jose C. , Merad Miriam , Faith Jeremiah J.
Published: March 2017

Background & Aims

The complex interactions between diet and the microbiota that influence mucosal inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease are poorly understood. Experimental colitis models provide the opportunity to control and systematically perturb diet and the microbiota in parallel to quantify the contributions between multiple dietary ingredients and the microbiota on host physiology and colitis.

Methods

To examine the interplay of diet and the gut microbiota on host health and colitis, we fed over 40 different diets with varied macronutrient sources and concentrations to specific pathogen free or germ free mice either in the context of healthy, unchallenged animals or colitis models (dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) and T cell transfer).

Results

Diet influenced physiology in both health and colitis across all models, with the concentration of protein and psyllium fiber having the most profound effects. Increasing dietary protein elevated gut microbial density and worsened DSS colitis severity. Depleting gut microbial density by using germ-free animals or antibiotics negated the effect of a high protein diet. Psyllium fiber influenced host physiology and attenuated colitis severity through microbiota-dependent and microbiota-independent mechanisms. Combinatorial perturbations to dietary protein and psyllium fiber in parallel explain most variation in gut microbial density, intestinal permeability, and DSS colitis severity, and changes in one ingredient can be offset by changes in the other.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the importance of examining complex mixtures of nutrients to understand the role of diet in intestinal inflammation.
Natural disasters, entrepreneurship, and creation after destruction
Authors: Monllor Javier , Murphy Patrick J.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute a deeper understanding of how natural disasters influence entrepreneurial intentionality as an important antecedent of entrepreneurial intention. It reviews the conceptual and operational backgrounds of natural disaster research and entrepreneurship theories and formulates a distinctive conceptual approach to entrepreneurial intentions in natural disaster settings.

Design/methodology/approach

An exhaustive review of research articles published in peer-reviewed entrepreneurship journals is provided and focuses on entrepreneurship, natural disasters, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Findings

Six propositions about the influence of natural disasters on entrepreneurial intentions in ways that are distinct to the specific circumstances of post-disaster environments.

Research limitations/implications

The paper’s findings serve as a useful foundation for future research of post-disaster entrepreneurial behavior. The propositions highlight the relationship between opportunities, self-efficacy, feasibility, desirability, fear of failure, and resilience that complement macro-level research with micro-level antecedents. Implications entail new methodological avenues for future studies of humanitarian and post-disaster entrepreneurial activities.

Practical implications

This paper suggests ways in which public policy and educational, state and community programs can be designed and executed so that entrepreneurial intentions are developed and entrepreneurial action is not hindered. Moreover, it clarifies several ways to achieve more effective action (or inaction) to serve those affected by natural disasters and minimize disaffection.

Originality/value

The study illustrates that natural disasters can and do create opportunities for entrepreneurial behavior even as they generate powerful and sweeping negative effects on socioeconomic systems. Its unique approach explores individual-level variables concerning intent and motivation that drive entrepreneurial decisions in disaster contexts.
Critical observations on the statistical process control implementation in the UK food industry
Authors: Abdul Halim Lim Sarina , Antony Jiju , He Zhen , Arshed Norin
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Statistical process control (SPC) is widely applied for control and improve processes in manufacturing, but very few studies have reported on the successful application of SPC in the food industry, in particular. The purpose of this paper is to critically assess the status of SPC in the UK food manufacturing industry and to suggest future research avenues.

Design/methodology/approach

A research project was carried out in the UK food manufacturing sector through questionnaires. The results of the study were analysed using descriptive statistics and statistical tests to be applied in the hypothesis testing.

Findings

Findings revealed that 45 per cent of the respondents are SPC users andx¯-R andx¯-S charts are the most commonly applied SPC charts in this industry. It was determined that top management commitment is the most critical factor, while lack of SPC training is the most alarming challenge, and lack of awareness of SPC and its benefits are the main reasons for the food companies not implementing SPC.

Research limitations/implications

The study considered only the food manufacturing companies. Future research could be addressed toward the food service and food supply chain.

Practical implications

The paper provides information to food companies in the UK on most common practiced and important quality tools, SPC charts and critical success factors in the food industry. Moreover, the most challenging factors of SPC implementation in the food industry are presented.

Originality/value

This study depicted the current state of SPC practices in the food industry and the process performance in SPC and non-SPC companies is compared.
An assessment of national healthcare service delivery: a Ghanaian illustration
Authors: Boakye Kwabena G. , Blankson Charles , Prybutok Victor R. , Qin Hong
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and test a healthcare framework of service quality, perceived value, and satisfaction in Ghana. More specifically, this study investigates the role and effect of service quality on patient satisfaction and perceived value in Ghana’s healthcare delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered through surveys administered to 113 healthcare patients in Ghana. partial least square-structural equation modeling analysis was used to empirically test the research model.

Findings

Results show healthcare quality significantly influences satisfaction and perceived value of healthcare delivery. Additionally, perceived value’s impact on satisfaction and behavioral intention shows that increasing perceived benefits while reducing perceived costs leads to repeat behavior and paves the way for retention strategy for healthcare management.

Research limitations/implications

This study yields a series of limitations in its results and conclusions. These limitations and future research are discussed in Section 7 of the study.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by examining the effects of healthcare service quality on patient satisfaction and perceived value, determining the effect of healthcare service quality on patients’ behavioral intention, and testing the proposed framework in Ghana, a fast growing and economically liberalized emerging country in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Online corporate communications: website usability and content
Authors: García García María , Carrillo-Durán M. Victoria , Tato Jimenez Juan Luis
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish a categorization of corporate websites as tools of online communication, in accordance with how they apply usability to the content they present, and to determine the indicators of the content and usability variables which mark the differences between each group of websites.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study analyses how 754 firms manage the usability of the content they provide through the channels of their corporate websites. To this end, a cluster analysis was applied to distinguish the types of firms according to the usability and content of their websites, followed by a discriminant analysis to determine which variables differentiate the groups.

Findings

The work has presented a list of the indicators that the literature has considered to be determinant aspects of firms’ use of their websites for corporate strategic communications. These indicators can be applied in forming an instrument to measure the quality of company websites in this area.

Originality/value

The present paper has attempted to clarify the panorama of corporate online communication via websites, understanding the issue as being not just a mere technicality but addressing it from the perspective of the emitter of the communication as a strategic instrument.
Communicating about raising the retirement age using frames and counterframes
Authors: Vyncke Bart , Van Gorp Baldwin
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study discusses the frames that were used in the public debate about raising the retirement age in Belgium from 65 to 67 years. The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into the prevailing frames in order to develop counterframes that are less problematizing and can be used to bring more nuance to the debate.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive framing analysis was conducted, using articles from Flemish newspapers and magazines, published in a two-year period (March 2013-March 2015). This sample was complemented by a convenience sample of texts by various stakeholders. The total sample consisted of 182 texts.

Findings

The analysis yielded four problematizing frames and six deproblematizing counterframes. They cover both the meaning of work for the individual, and the effect that working longer has on society.

Practical implications

The overview of the frames can be used as a tool to analyze existing communication, and to bring more nuance to future communication by introducing deproblematizing perspectives into the debate regarding the need to work for a longer period of time.

Originality/value

In addition to giving an overview of existing frames, the study also constructed alternatives which can be used to deproblematize the issue of having to work longer.
Microfinance as a tool for developing resilience in vulnerable communities
Authors: Ullah Inayat , Khan Madiha
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review different microfinance products and services that can be offered to reduce the financial vulnerabilities of communities at risk. Following a detail literature review, the effectiveness of different forms of microfinance services in creating resilience in the affected communities was analysed and whether they can be applied to mitigate the risk of future disasters was assessed. In addition, the study was conducted to assess whether microcredit can help reduce direct risk exposure of the poor through income smoothing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a review of existing theories.

Findings

The notion that most vulnerable communities are financially weak is evident from studies. This study finds that microcredit can help reduce direct risk exposure of poor through income smoothing, while saving can help them recover from the losses of disasters. Our review also suggests that there is no specific model of microfinance services which can have a holistic impact on the financial capacity-building, particularly during the rehabilitation process.

Research limitations/implications

There are different categories of microfinance products with distinct characteristics and associated benefits to the communities. Some of the major microfinance products as identified in this study are, saving products, credit products and insurance products. These products have multidimensional benefits, as there are many approaches adopted by microfinance institutions (MFIs) and clients regarding the use of these products. However this study focuses on the use of these products towards resilience development in the community. Other applications of these products still need to be explored.

Practical implications

There is a need for a comprehensive financial tool that can be effectively applied to expedite the process of rehabilitation and reduce the financial impact of disasters on the community, particularly the poor. Major issues in the context of disasters faced by MFIs to design their products in the affected areas are also highlighted in the study.

Social implications

The study throws lights on different microfinancial tools such as microloans, microcredits and cash for work, etc. offered by banks and other organizations and highlights their role in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of those affected by disasters in different parts of the world.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the discourse of microfinance and its social applications in developing countries. It provides original role of microfinance as a tool for creating community resilience to the impacts of disasters.
Linearized differential current sensor in low-voltage CMOS
Authors: Naudé Neil , Sinha Saurabh
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This work aims to improve upon the linearity of integrated CMOS current sensors used in switch mode power supply topologies, using a low-cost and low-voltage (less than 1.2 V) CMOS technology node. Improved sensor accuracy contributes to efficiency in switched supplies by reducing measurement errors when it is integrated with closed-loop control.

Design/methodology/approach

Integrated current-sensing methods were investigated and CMOS solutions were prioritized. These solutions were implemented and characterized in the desired process and shortcomings were identified. A theoretical analysis accompanied by simulated tests was used to refine improvements which were prototyped. The current sensor prototypes were fabricated and tested.

Findings

Measured and simulated results are presented which show improved linearity in current sensor outputs. Techniques borrowed from analog amplifier design can be used to improve the dynamic range and linearity of current-steered CMOS pairs for measuring current. A current sensor with a gain of 5 V/A operating in a 10 MHz switch mode supply environment is demonstrated.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an alternative approach to creating suitable bias conditions for linearity in a SenseFET topology. The proposed method is compact and architecturally simple in comparison to other techniques.
Ultra-robust high-field magnetization plateau and supersolidity in bond-frustrated MnCr
2
S
4
Authors: Tsurkan Vladimir , Zherlitsyn Sergei , Prodan Lilian , Felea Viorel , Cong Pham Thanh , Skourski Yurii , Wang Zhe , Deisenhofer Joachim , von Nidda Hans-Albrecht Krug , Wosnitza Joahim , Loidl Alois
Published: March 2017

High magnetic field studies in MnCr
2
S
4
reveal an extended magnetization plateau and the realization of supersolid phase.
Anomalous photovoltaic effect in organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells
Authors: Yuan Yongbo , Li Tao , Wang Qi , Xing Jie , Gruverman Alexei , Huang Jinsong
Published: March 2017

An anomalous photovoltaic effect with open-circuit voltage larger than bandgap is discovered in hybrid perovskite solar cells.
Biomimetic mineral self-organization from silica-rich spring waters
Authors: García-Ruiz Juan Manuel , Nakouzi Elias , Kotopoulou Electra , Tamborrino Leonardo , Steinbock Oliver
Published: March 2017

Geochemical evidence for self-assembly of inorganic mineral structures, with relevance to life detection and prebiotic chemistry.