bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A bilevel optimal motion planning (BOMP) model with application to autonomous parking
Authors: Shi Shenglei , Xiong Youlun , Chen Jiankui , Xiong Caihua
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we present a bilevel optimal motion planning (BOMP) model for autonomous parking. The BOMP model treats motion planning as an optimal control problem, in which the upper level is designed for vehicle nonlinear dynamics, and the lower level is for geometry collision-free constraints. The significant feature of the BOMP model is that the lower level is a linear programming problem that serves as a constraint for the upper-level problem. That is, an optimal control problem contains an embedded optimization problem as constraints. Traditional optimal control methods cannot solve the BOMP problem directly. Therefore, the modified approximate Karush–Kuhn–Tucker theory is applied to generate a general nonlinear optimal control problem. Then the pseudospectral optimal control method solves the converted problem. Particularly, the lower level is the $$J_2$$J2-function that acts as a distance function between convex polyhedron objects. Polyhedrons can approximate objects in higher precision than spheres or ellipsoids. As a result, a fast high-precision BOMP algorithm for autonomous parking concerning dynamical feasibility and collision-free property is proposed. Simulation results and experiment on Turtlebot3 validate the BOMP model, and demonstrate that the computation speed increases almost two orders of magnitude compared with the area criterion based collision avoidance method.
Social media photos of substance use and their relationship to attitudes and behaviors among ethnic and racial minority emerging adult men living in low‐income areas
Authors: Lauckner Carolyn , Desrosiers Alethea , Muilenburg Jessica , Killanin Abraham , Genter Elizabeth , Kershaw Trace
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Emerging adult minority males have inequitable negative consequences from substance abuse. They are also frequent users of social media, logging into popular sites up to 25 times per week on average, so there may be opportunities to use these technologies for better understanding and preventing substance use behaviors. Through mobile phone monitoring, this study examined how social media sites are used to post substance use‐related images and how posting such images is related to behaviors and attitudes. It also explored how self‐presentation of masculinity norms, such as coolness and toughness, was related to posting of substance use‐related photos.

Methods

Instagram and/or Twitter posts of 65 minority males aged 18–25 living in low‐income areas were monitored for three months using phone tracking software. Over 2200 posted images were content analyzed to determine if they were related to alcohol or marijuana and if they displayed masculinity norms. Behavioral interviewing was also used to examine alcohol and marijuana attitudes, use, and problematic use. Analyses utilized t‐tests and multiple and logistic regression.

Results

Many participants posted at least one substance use‐related photo and a strong majority were exposed to such images through their network. Individuals who posted substance use‐related images had more “followers.” Posting substance‐use related photos was related to marijuana use attitudes, behaviors, and problem behaviors, as well as depictions of toughness in photos.

Conclusions

Social media monitoring has potential for use in identifying individuals at‐risk for substance abuse and those who may be perpetuating unhealthy substance use norms.
Australian Constitutional Law
Authors: Beck Luke
Published: November 2019

Australian Constitutional Law: Concepts and Cases is a highly accessible, clear and methodical overview of Australian constitutional law, integrating theory and doctrine. It is both comprehensive and concise. This book takes a conceptual rather than chronological approach to topics. With focussed rather than lengthy case extracts, the book explains what the law is and why various interpretations have been adopted. Clear explanations enable students to understand and engage with constitutional law, including its complexity and nuance. The book's explicit linkages between topics and clear delineation between case extracts and commentary help students make sense of Australian constitutional law as a whole. Conceptual and discussion questions at the end of each chapter facilitate student thinking and discussion about how the law has evolved and how the law is applied. Written by leading constitutional law scholar Luke Beck, Australian Constitutional Law: Concepts and Cases is invaluable for students engaging with Australian constitutional law.
Interventions to reduce emergency department consultation time: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Beckerleg Weiwei , Wooller Krista , Hasimjia Delvina
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Overcrowding in the emergency department (ED) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Studies have shown that consultation to decision time, defined as the time when a consultation has been accepted by a specialty service to the time when disposition decision is made, is one important contributor to the overall length of stay in the ED.

The primary objective of this review is to evaluate the impact of workflow interventions on consultation to decision time and ED length of stay in patients referred to consultant services in teaching centres, and to identify barriers to reducing consultation to decision time.

Methods

This systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. An electronic search was conducted to identify relevant studies from MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central, and CINAHL databases. Study screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were carried out by two independent reviewers.

Results

A total of nine full text articles were included in the review. All studies reported a decrease in consultation to decision time post intervention, and two studies reported cost savings. Interventions studied included short messaging service (SMS) messaging, education with audit and feedback, standardization of the admission process, implementation of institutional guideline, modification of the consultation process, and staffing schedules. Overall study quality was fair to poor.

Conclusions

The limited evidence suggests that audit and feedback in the form of SMS messaging, direct consultation to senior physicians, and standardization of the admission process may be the most effective and feasible interventions. Additional high-quality studies are required to explore sustainable interventions aimed at reducing consultation to decision time.
On the Need for Prospective Disaster Survey Panels
Authors: Parker Andrew M. , Edelman Amanda F. , Carman Katherine G. , Finucane Melissa L.
Published: November 2019

Disasters are typically unforeseen, causing most social and behavioral studies about disasters to be reactive. Occasionally, predisaster data are available, for example, when disasters happen while a study is already in progress or where data collected for other purposes already exist, but planned pre-post designs are all but nonexistent. This gap fundamentally limits the quantification of disasters’ human toll. Anticipating, responding to, and managing public reactions require a means of tracking and understanding those reactions, collected using rigorous scientific methods. Oftentimes, self-reports from the public are the best or only source of information, such as perceived risk, behavioral intentions, and social learning. Significant advancement in disaster research, to best inform practice and policy, requires well-designed surveys with large probability-based samples and longitudinal assessment of individuals across the life-cycle of a disaster and across multiple disasters.
Using screeners to measure respondent attention on self-administered surveys: Which items and how many?
Authors: Berinsky Adam J. , Margolis Michele F. , Sances Michael W. , Warshaw Christopher
Published: November 2019

Inattentive respondents introduce noise into data sets, weakening correlations between items and increasing the likelihood of null findings. “Screeners” have been proposed as a way to identify inattentive respondents, but questions remain regarding their implementation. First, what is the optimal number of Screeners for identifying inattentive respondents? Second, what types of Screener questions best capture inattention? In this paper, we address both of these questions. Using item-response theory to aggregate individual Screeners we find that four Screeners are sufficient to identify inattentive respondents. Moreover, two grid and two multiple choice questions work well. Our findings have relevance for applied survey research in political science and other disciplines. Most importantly, our recommendations enable the standardization of Screeners on future surveys.
Effects of maternal diets on preterm birth and low birth weight: a systematic review
Authors: Gete Dereje G. , Waller Michael , Mishra Gita D.
Published: November 2019

Current evidence indicates that maternal diets before and during pregnancy could influence rates of preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW) and small for gestational age (SGA) births. However, findings have been inconsistent. This review summarised evidence concerning the effects of maternal diets before and during pregnancy on preterm birth, LBW and SGA. Systematic electronic database searches were carried out using PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane library using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. The review included forty eligible articles, comprising mostly of prospective cohort studies, with five randomised controlled trials. The dietary patterns during pregnancy associated with a lower risk of preterm birth were commonly characterised by high consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and dairy products. Those associated with a lower risk of SGA also had similar characteristics, including high consumption of vegetables, fruits, legumes, seafood/fish and milk products. Results from a limited number of studies suggested there was a beneficial effect on the risk of preterm birth of pre-pregnancy diet quality characterised by a high intake of fruits and proteins and less intake of added sugars, saturated fats and fast foods. The evidence was mixed for the relationship between maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and LBW. These findings indicate that better maternal diet quality during pregnancy, characterised by a high intake of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy products and protein diets, may have a synergistic effect on reducing the risk of preterm birth and SGA.
(ADHVC) VIRGINEVSQVE HELICON: A SUBTEXTUAL RAPE IN OVID'S CATALOGUE OF MOUNTAINS (MET. 2.219)
Authors: McPhee Brian D.
Published: November 2019

In his lengthy survey of the cosmic devastation wrought by Phaethon's disastrous chariot ride, Ovid includes two catalogues detailing the scorching of the world's mountains (Met. 2.217–26) and rivers (2.241–59). Ovid enlivens these lists through his usual play with sound patterns and revels in the opportunity to adapt so many Greek names to Latin prosody; for instance the opening line of the catalogue of mountains (ardet Athos Taurusque Cilix et Tmolus et Oete, 2.217) masterfully illustrates both of these features. The lists are also brimming with playful erudition. To take but a few examples: a dried-up Ida belies its standard epithet πολυπῖδαξ, ‘many-fountained’ (2.218); the sun's heat doubles the flames of volcanic Etna (2.220); burning Xanthus is destined to burn again (2.245; cf. Hom. Il. 21.330–82); and the famous gold-bearing sands of the Tagus are melting (2.251). These features not only ‘relieve monotony’; they warrant the catalogues’ inclusion in the category of Ovid's most entertaining.
There are no proper topological hyperbolic homoclinic classes for area-preserving maps
Authors: Bessa Mário , Torres Maria Joana
Published: November 2019

We begin by defining a homoclinic class for homeomorphisms. Then we prove that if a topological homoclinic class Λ associated with an area-preserving homeomorphism f on a surface M is topologically hyperbolic (i.e. has the shadowing and expansiveness properties), then Λ = M and f is an Anosov homeomorphism.
Being a gerontologist: intersections between the professional and the personal in the Ageing of British Gerontology project
Authors: Reynolds Jackie , Bernard Miriam , Ray Mo
Published: November 2019

Despite the growth of cultural gerontology this century, relatively few gerontologists have interrogated their own experiences of ageing through a critical reflexive lens. This paper seeks to address this lack of attention by discussing some findings of the Ageing of British Gerontology project: a two-year (2015–2017) Leverhulme-funded study focused on identifying key developments and changes in gerontological research, theory, policy and practice in Britain since the founding of the British Society of Social and Behavioural Gerontology (now the British Society of Gerontology) in 1971. As part of our mixed-method study, we undertook 50 in-depth biographical interviews with ‘senior’ or retired individuals who have played a key role in the creation and development of gerontology in Britain. As well as focusing more widely on gerontological developments, we asked participants about the relationship between their professional insights into ageing and their personal experiences of ageing – both their own and that of loved ones. In this paper, we discuss the findings in relation to five key themes: health, illness and mortality; close personal relationships; work relationships; challenging ageism; and ageing selves. We found evidence that participants often drew upon their personal experiences of ageing in a range of contexts, including teaching and research. There were also numerous examples of professional insights informing personal decision-making, especially in relation to care of loved ones, though the emotionally challenging aspects of this emphasised the limitations of professional insights. Ultimately, we argue that the distinction between the personal and the professional is something of a false dichotomy, and there is often a complex interplay between the two aspects.
Behind the success of dominated personal pension plans: sales force and financial literacy factors
Authors: Marotta Giuseppe
Published: November 2019

The revealed preference for dominated insurance-based personal pension plans (PPPs) in Italy is a decade-long puzzle. I surmise that a motivation from the supply side is a sales force factor deriving from the geographical distribution of financial providers, including the countrywide network of the state controlled Post Office. I provide supporting evidence using three biennial waves of the Bank of Italy's survey on household finances from 2010 to 2014. The time interval includes a public pension system reform sharply raising the statutory age retirement, legislated in December 2011 to defuse a sovereign debt crisis. I show that the salience effect on the awareness of the benefits of supplementing lower perspective public pensions with PPPs increased the explanatory power of financial strength indicators. Exploiting a module in the 2010 wave I estimate a surprising decrease in the probability of subscription to PPPs in 2014 associated with the indicator for the highest financial literacy level.
Collective Obligation and Individual Ambition in the Paris Agreement
Authors: Zahar Alexander
Published: November 2019

Several scholars have claimed or implied that the Paris Agreement imposes a collective obligation on states to keep global warming below 2°C, but what is a collective obligation from a legal point of view? The literature that asserts the existence of a collective obligation fails to address this question. In this article I argue two points. Firstly, while a legally binding collective obligation for states is not a theoretical impossibility, the Paris Agreement has not demonstrably created such an obligation; therefore, the collective obligation that appears in the treaty constitutes at most an objective of the Agreement, albeit a crucial one. Secondly, while state observance of the Agreement's apparent collective obligation (but, in fact, paramount objective) is necessary for the success of the treaty, the Agreement does not provide for a process to resolve the global mitigation burden into state-level ambition commitments to ensure that the paramount objective is met. While this is a significant failing of the Agreement, the provisions in the 2018 Paris Rulebook on the global stocktake are sufficiently loose to allow for this mechanism to play a role in the ‘individuation’ of the mitigation burden.
Multiscale Data Fusion for Surface Soil Moisture Estimation: A Spatial Hierarchical Approach
Authors: Kathuria Dhruva , Mohanty Binayak P. , Katzfuss Matthias
Published: November 2019

Surface soil moisture (SSM) has been identified as a key climate variable governing hydrologic and atmospheric processes across multiple spatial scales at local, regional, and global levels. The global burgeoning of SSM datasets in the past decade holds a significant potential in improving our understanding of multiscale SSM dynamics. The primary issues that hinder the fusion of SSM data from disparate instruments are (1) different spatial resolutions of the data instruments, (2) inherent spatial variability in SSM caused due to atmospheric and land surface controls, and (3) measurement errors caused due to imperfect retrievals of instruments. We present a data fusion scheme which takes all the above three factors into account using a Bayesian spatial hierarchical model (SHM), combining a geostatistical approach with a hierarchical model. The applicability of the fusion scheme is demonstrated by fusing point, airborne, and satellite data for a watershed exhibiting high spatial variability in Manitoba, Canada. We demonstrate that the proposed data fusion scheme is adept at assimilating and predicting SSM distribution across all three scales while accounting for potential measurement errors caused due to imperfect retrievals. Further validation of the algorithm is required in different hydroclimates and surface heterogeneity as well as for other data platforms for wider applicability.
Sources and Distribution of Fresh Water Around Cape Farewell in 2014
Authors: Benetti M. , Reverdin G. , Clarke J. S. , Tynan E. , Holliday N. P. , Torres‐Valdes S. , Lherminier P. , Yashayaev I.
Published: November 2019

We investigate the origin of fresh water on the shelves near Cape Farewell (south Greenland) using sections of three hydrographic cruises in May (HUD2014007) and June 2014 (JR302 and Geovide). We partition the fresh water between meteoric water sources and sea ice melt or brine formation using the δ18O of sea water. The sections illustrate the presence of the East Greenland Coastal Current (EGCC) close to shore east of Cape Farewell. West of Cape Farewell, it partially joins the shelf break, with a weaker near‐surface remnant of the EGCC observed on the shelf southwest and west of Cape Farewell. The EGCC traps the freshest waters close to Greenland and carries a brine signature below 50‐m depth. The cruises illustrate a strong increase in meteoric water of the shelf upper layer (by more than a factor 2) between early May and late June, likely to result from East and South Greenland spring melt. There was also a contribution of sea ice melt near the surface but with large variability both spatially and also between the two June cruises. Furthermore, gradients in the freshwater distribution and its contributions are larger east of Cape Farewell than west of Cape Farewell, which is related to the EGCC being more intense and closer to the coast east of Cape Farewell than west of it. Large temporal variability in the currents is found between different sections to the east and southeast of Cape Farewell, likely related to changes in wind conditions.
Seasonal Variations in Atmospheric Composition as Measured in Gale Crater, Mars
Authors: Trainer Melissa G. , Wong Michael H. , McConnochie Timothy H. , Franz Heather B. , Atreya Sushil K. , Conrad Pamela G. , Lefèvre Franck , Mahaffy Paul R. , Malespin Charles A. , Manning Heidi L.K. , Martín‐Torres Javier , Martínez Germán M. , McKay Christopher P. , Navarro‐González Rafael , Vicente‐Retortillo Álvaro , Webster Christopher R. , Zorzano María‐Paz
Published: November 2019

The Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) instrument onboard the Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover measures the chemical composition of major atmospheric species (CO2, N2, 40Ar, O2, and CO) through a dedicated atmospheric inlet. We report here measurements of volume mixing ratios in Gale Crater using the SAM quadrupole mass spectrometer, obtained over a period of nearly 5 years (3 Mars years) from landing. The observation period spans the northern summer of MY 31 and solar longitude (LS) of 175° through spring of MY 34, LS = 12°. This work expands upon prior reports of the mixing ratios measured by SAM QMS in the first 105 sols of the mission. The SAM QMS atmospheric measurements were taken periodically, with a cumulative coverage of four or five experiments per season on Mars. Major observations include the seasonal cycle of CO2, N2, and Ar, which lags approximately 20–40° of LS behind the pressure cycle driven by CO2 condensation and sublimation from the winter poles. This seasonal cycle indicates that transport occurs on faster timescales than mixing. The mixing ratio of O2 shows significant seasonal and interannual variability, suggesting an unknown atmospheric or surface process at work. The O2 measurements are compared to several parameters, including dust optical depth and trace CH4 measurements by Curiosity. We derive annual mean volume mixing ratios for the atmosphere in Gale Crater: CO2 = 0.951 (±0.003), N2 = 0.0259 (±0.0006), 40Ar = 0.0194 (±0.0004), O2 = 1.61 (±0.09) x 10‐3, and CO = 5.8 (±0.8) x 10‐4.
Genome-wide association study of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis reveals genomic loci stratified by ANCA status
Authors: Lyons Paul A , Peters James E , Alberici Federico , Liley James , Coulson Richard M. R. , Astle William , Baldini Chiara , Bonatti Francesco , Cid Maria C , Elding Heather , Emmi Giacomo , Epplen Jörg , Guillevin Loïc , Jayne David R. W. , Jiang Tao , Gunnarsson Iva , Lamprecht Peter , Leslie Stephen , Little Mark A. , Martorana Davide , Moosig Frank , Neumann Thomas , Ohlsson Sophie , Quickert Stefanie , Ramirez Giuseppe A. , Rewerska Barbara , Schett Georg , Sinico Renato A. , Szczeklik Wojciech , Tesar Vladimir , Vukcevic Damjan ,   The European Vasculitis Genetics Consortium, Akil Mohammed , Barratt Jonathan , Basu Neil , Butterworth Adam S. , Bruce Ian , Clarkson Michael , Conlon Niall , DasGupta Bhaskar , Doulton Timothy W. R. , Espígol-Frigolé Georgina , Flossmann Oliver , Gabrielli Armando , Gasior Jolanta , Gregorini Gina , Guida Giuseppe , Hernández-Rodríguez José , Hruskova Zdenka , Hudson Amy , Knight Ann , Lanyon Peter , Luqmani Raashid , Magliano Malgorzata , Manfredi Angelo A. , Marguerie Christopher , Maritati Federica , Marvisi Chiara , McHugh Neil J. , Molloy Eamonn , Motyer Allan , Mukhtyar Chetan , Padyukov Leonid , Pesci Alberto , Prieto-Gonzalez Sergio , Ramentol-Sintas Marc , Reis Petra , Roccatello Dario , Rovere-Querini Patrizia , Salvarani Carlo , Santarsia Francesca , Solans-Laque Roser , Soranzo Nicole , Taylor Jo , Wessels Julie , Zwerina Jochen , Terrier Benjamin , Watts Richard A , Vaglio Augusto , Holle Julia U , Wallace Chris , Smith Kenneth G. C.
Published: November 2019

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare inflammatory disease of unknown cause. 30% of patients have anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) specific for myeloperoxidase (MPO). Here, we describe a genome-wide association study in 676 EGPA cases and 6809 controls, that identifies 4 EGPA-associated loci through conventional case-control analysis, and 4 additional associations through a conditional false discovery rate approach. Many variants are also associated with asthma and six are associated with eosinophil count in the general population. Through Mendelian randomisation, we show that a primary tendency to eosinophilia contributes to EGPA susceptibility. Stratification by ANCA reveals that EGPA comprises two genetically and clinically distinct syndromes. MPO+ ANCA EGPA is an eosinophilic autoimmune disease sharing certain clinical features and an HLA-DQ association with MPO+ ANCA-associated vasculitis, while ANCA-negative EGPA may instead have a mucosal/barrier dysfunction origin. Four candidate genes are targets of therapies in development, supporting their exploration in EGPA.
Transcription and translation contribute to gene locus relocation to the nucleoid periphery in E. coli
Authors: Yang Sora , Kim Seunghyeon , Kim Dong-Kyun , Jeon An Hyeong , Bae Son Jung , Hedén Gynnå Arvid , Ki Lee Nam
Published: November 2019

Transcription by RNA polymerase (RNAP) is coupled with translation in bacteria. Here, we observe the dynamics of transcription and subcellular localization of a specific gene locus (encoding a non-membrane protein) in living E. coli cells at subdiffraction-limit resolution. The movement of the gene locus to the nucleoid periphery correlates with transcription, driven by either E. coli RNAP or T7 RNAP, and the effect is potentiated by translation.
Optical spin locking of a solid-state qubit
Authors: Bodey J. H. , Stockill R. , Denning E. V. , Gangloff D. A. , Éthier-Majcher G. , Jackson D. M. , Clarke E. , Hugues M. , Gall C. Le , Atatüre M.
Published: November 2019

Quantum control of solid-state spin qubits typically involves pulses in the microwave domain, drawing from the well-developed toolbox of magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Driving a solid-state spin by optical means offers a high-speed alternative, which in the presence of limited spin coherence makes it the preferred approach for high-fidelity quantum control. Bringing the full versatility of magnetic spin resonance to the optical domain requires full phase and amplitude control of the optical fields. Here, we imprint a programmable microwave sequence onto a laser field and perform electron spin resonance in a semiconductor quantum dot via a two-photon Raman process. We show that this approach yields full SU(2) spin control with over $$98 \%$$

98
%

$$\pi$$
π
-rotation fidelity. We then demonstrate its versatility by implementing a particular multi-axis control sequence, known as spin locking. Combined with electron-nuclear Hartmann–Hahn resonances which we also report in this work, this sequence will enable efficient coherent transfer of a quantum state from the electron spin to the mesoscopic nuclear ensemble.
Computational geometric tools for quantitative comparison of locomotory behavior
Authors: Stamps Matthew T. , Go Soo , Mathuru Ajay S.
Published: November 2019

A fundamental challenge for behavioral neuroscientists is to accurately quantify (dis)similarities in animal behavior without excluding inherent variability present between individuals. We explored two new applications of curve and shape alignment techniques to address this issue. As a proof-of-concept we applied these methods to compare normal or alarmed behavior in pairs of medaka (Oryzias latipes). The curve alignment method we call Behavioral Distortion Distance (BDD) revealed that alarmed fish display less predictable swimming over time, even if individuals incorporate the same action patterns like immobility, sudden changes in swimming trajectory, or changing their position in the water column. The Conformal Spatiotemporal Distance (CSD) technique on the other hand revealed that, in spite of the unpredictability, alarmed individuals exhibit lower variability in overall swim patterns, possibly accounting for the widely held notion of “stereotypy” in alarm responses. More generally, we propose that these new applications of established computational geometric techniques are useful in combination to represent, compare, and quantify complex behaviors consisting of common action patterns that differ in duration, sequence, or frequency.
Electrocortical Evidence for Impaired Affective Picture Processing after Long-Term Immobilization
Authors: Brauns Katharina , Werner Anika , Gunga Hanns-Christian , Maggioni Martina A. , Dinges David F. , Stahn Alexander
Published: November 2019

The neurobehavioral risks associated with spaceflight are not well understood. In particular, little attention has been paid on the role of resilience, social processes and emotion regulation during long-duration spaceflight. Bed rest is a well-established spaceflight analogue that combines the adaptations associated with physical inactivity and semi-isolation and confinement. We here investigated the effects of 30 days of 6 degrees head-down tilt bed rest on affective picture processing using event-related potentials (ERP) in healthy men. Compared to a control group, bed rest participants showed significantly decreased P300 and LPP amplitudes to pleasant and unpleasant stimuli, especially in centroparietal regions, after 30 days of bed rest. Source localization revealed a bilateral lower activity in the posterior cingulate gyrus, insula and precuneus in the bed rest group in both ERP time frames for emotional, but not neutral stimuli.
Angiotensin II type 1 receptor-associated protein deficiency attenuates sirtuin1 expression in an immortalised human renal proximal tubule cell line
Authors: Yamaji Takahiro , Yamashita Akio , Wakui Hiromichi , Azushima Kengo , Uneda Kazushi , Fujikawa Yumiko , Haku Sona , Kobayashi Ryu , Ohki Kohji , Haruhara Kotaro , Kinguchi Sho , Ishii Takeo , Yamada Takayuki , Urate Shingo , Suzuki Toru , Abe Eriko , Tanaka Shohei , Kamimura Daisuke , Ishigami Tomoaki , Toya Yoshiyuki , Takahashi Hidehisa , Tamura Kouichi
Published: November 2019

The proximal tubule is a particularly important site for ageing-related kidney damage. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), an NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)-dependent deacetylase in the proximal tubule, may be involved in renal injury associated with ageing. However, the mechanisms of SIRT1 regulation remain to be elucidated. We recently reported that angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R)-associated protein (ATRAP)-deficient mice displayed age-associated renal function decline and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Our data showed that SIRT1 protein expression was reduced in ATRAP-deficient mice, although the relationship between ATRAP deficiency and age-associated renal fibrosis is still not fully understood. It is, therefore, necessary to investigate how ATRAP affects SIRT1 protein expression to resolve ageing-associated kidney dysfunction. Here, since ageing studies are inherently lengthy, we used an ex vivo model of the proximal tubule to determine the role of ATRAP in SIRT1 protein expression. We first generated a clonal immortalised human renal proximal tubule epithelial cell line (ciRPTEC) expressing AT1R and ATRAP. Using this cell line, we demonstrated that ATRAP knockdown reduced SIRT1 protein expression in the ciRPTEC but did not alter SIRT1 mRNA expression. Thus, ATRAP likely mediates SIRT1 protein abundance in ciRPTEC.
High-frequency oscillations in scalp EEG mirror seizure frequency in pediatric focal epilepsy
Authors: Boran Ece , Sarnthein Johannes , Krayenbühl Niklaus , Ramantani Georgia , Fedele Tommaso
Published: November 2019

High-frequency oscillations (HFO) are promising EEG biomarkers of epileptogenicity. While the evidence supporting their significance derives mainly from invasive recordings, recent studies have extended these observations to HFO recorded in the widely accessible scalp EEG. Here, we investigated whether scalp HFO in drug-resistant focal epilepsy correspond to epilepsy severity and how they are affected by surgical therapy. In eleven children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy that underwent epilepsy surgery, we prospectively recorded pre- and postsurgical scalp EEG with a custom-made low-noise amplifier (LNA). In four of these children, we also recorded intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG). To detect clinically relevant HFO, we applied a previously validated automated detector. Scalp HFO rates showed a significant positive correlation with seizure frequency (R2 = 0.80, p < 0.001). Overall, scalp HFO rates were higher in patients with active epilepsy (19 recordings, p = 0.0066, PPV = 86%, NPV = 80%, accuracy = 84% CI [62% 94%]) and decreased following successful epilepsy surgery. The location of the highest HFO rates in scalp EEG matched the location of the highest HFO rates in ECoG. This study is the first step towards using non-invasively recorded scalp HFO to monitor disease severity in patients affected by epilepsy.
Denatured lysozyme-coated carbon nanotubes: a versatile biohybrid material
Authors: Siepi Marialuisa , Donadio Giuliana , Dardano Principia , De Stefano Luca , Monti Daria Maria , Notomista Eugenio
Published: November 2019

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are among the most versatile nanomaterials, but their exploitation is hindered by limited dispersibility, especially in aqueous solvents. Here, we show that AP-LYS, a highly cationic soluble derivative of denatured hen egg lysozyme, is a very effective tool for the unbundling and solubilisation of CNTs. AP-LYS proved to mediate the complete and stable dispersion of CNTs at protein: CNT ratios ≥1: 3 (w:w) in very mild conditions (10–20 minutes sonication in ammonium acetate buffer, pH 5.0). Electrophoretic mobility and ζ-potential measurements confirmed that dispersed CNTs were coated by the protein, whereas molecular docking was used to study the interactions between AP-LYS and CNTs. AP-LYS-coated CNTs proved to be a very effective microbial cell-flocculating agent with an efficiency similar to that of chitosan, one of the best available flocculating agents, thus suggesting that this hybrid could find industrial applications in the treatment of wastewaters contaminated by microbial cells, or to remove microbial cells after fermentation processes. Moreover, we exploited the low stability of AP-LYS-coated CNT dispersions in eukaryotic cell culture media to prepare scaffolds with an extracellular matrix-like rough surface for the cultivation of eukaryotic cells.
Ventilator settings and outcome of respiratory failure in paraquat-induced pulmonary injury
Authors: Khazraei Seyedehparvin , Marashi Sayed Mahdi , Sanaei-Zadeh Hossein
Published: November 2019

Paraquat is a nonselective contact herbicide that has significant importance in clinical toxicology due to its high mortality rate. The cause of mortality in the acute phase of poisoning is a multi-organ failure while in the sub-acute phase is alveolar injury and lung fibrosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the advantages and drawbacks of mechanical ventilation (MV) in paraquat-induced pulmonary injury and its consequential respiratory failure (PIPI-CRF). This retrospective descriptive analytical study was done to investigate the outcome of patients who had developed PIPI-CRF and underwent conventional treatments with invasive MV in three teaching hospitals in Shiraz, Iran, from March 2010 to February 2015. In total, 44 patients (mean age of 27.9 ± 9.98 years) had undergone MV due to PIPI-CRF. None of the patients had a successful wean off from the ventilator. Although all the patients’ were on aggressive life support and full efforts to resuscitate were carried out in case of cardiac arrest, all of them expired. We suggest that in the case of conventional treatment of paraquat poisoning, only noninvasive ventilation should be applied. However, considering the chance of patient’s survival performing novel treatments, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), lung protective ventilation with optimal positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) could be applied only in such circumstances.
Analysis of Patients with Urolithiasis Visiting the Emergency Department between 2014 and 2016 in Korea: Data from the National Emergency Department Information System
Authors: Kim Jong Wook , Kim Jung-Youn , Ahn Sun Tae , Oh Mi Mi , Moon Du Geon , Park Hong Seok
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the characteristics of patients with urolithiasis visiting an emergency department based on a national database system in Korea. This study spanned a period of three years from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016. A retrospective census was conducted using the National Emergency Department Information System for urolithiasis patients. Patient data, including age, sex, insurance type, emergency department visit date and time, discharge date and time, emergency department treatment result, visit flow, and hospitalization route, were extracted and analyzed. Overall, 103,981, 112,083, and 120,647 patients/year during the 2014–2016 study period visited an emergency department with a diagnosis related to urolithiasis. Total monthly emergency department visits ranged from 35,927 in August (highest) to 24,008 in February. Overall, 13.2% of patients were hospitalized and the hospitalization rate was stable (estimated annual percent change) over the study period. Patients aged <9 years or ≥70 years and those with medical aid had higher hospitalization rates. A higher number of visits occurred in the hot season, on weekends, and in the 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. time slots. This nationwide study revealed that the percentage of patients visiting an emergency department with urolithiasis was higher in August, in the early morning, and at weekends.
Partial rpoB Gene Sequencing Identification and Probiotic Potential of Floricoccus penangensis ML061-4 Isolated from Assam Tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica)
Authors: Rungsirivanich Patthanasak , Inta Angkhana , Tragoolpua Yingmanee , Thongwai Narumol
Published: November 2019

Assam tea or Miang is a local name of Camellia sinensis var. assamica in northern Thailand. By the local wisdom, Assam tea leaves are used as the raw material in tea fermentation to produce “Fermented Miang” consumed by people in northern Thailand and the countries nearby. In this study, twenty-eight bacterial isolates were obtained from Assam tea leaf samples collected from Nan province, Thailand. Bacterial isolates were identified within 6 genera including Bacillus, Floricoccus, Kocuria, Lysinibacillus, Micrococcus and Staphylococcus. Among these, the strain ML061-4 shared 100.0 and 99.4% similarity of 16S rRNA and rpoB gene sequence with F. penangensis JCM 31735T, respectively. This is the first discovery of F. penangensis in Thailand. F. penangensis ML061-4 exhibited probiotic characteristics including lactic acid production (9.19 ± 0.10 mg/ml), antibacterial activities (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and E. coli O157:H7 DMST 12743), acid and bile salt tolerance (71.1 and 54.9%, respectively), autoaggregation (97.0%), coaggregation (66.0% with E. coli O157:H7), cell surface hydrophobicity (90.0%), bacterial adhesion (82.9% with Lactobacillus plantarum FM03-1), competitive inhibition (17.8% with E. coli O157:H7) and competitive exclusion (34.9% with E. coli O157:H7). Overall, the data suggested that F. penangensis ML061-4 had a great potential to be a probiotic.
Precision and Normative Values of a New Computerized Chart for Contrast Sensitivity Testing
Authors: Savini Giacomo , Calossi Antonio , Schiano-Lomoriello Domenico , Barboni Piero
Published: November 2019

The purpose was to define a normative database for a grating test for contrast sensitivity, based on a chart monitor with high-definition liquid crystal display, and validate its measurements by assessing their repeatability and determining responsiveness to cataract surgery. Three samples were analyzed: (1) healthy volunteers to assess the repeatability of measurements, (2) healthy subjects to develop the normative database, (3) patients undergoing cataract surgery. All subjects were tested with the grating contrast sensitivity test (Vision Chart, CSO) at 1.5, 3, 6, 12 and 18 cycles per degree. The instrument software progressively reduces the contrast of the gratings according to the Quick Estimate by Sequential Testing (QUEST) procedure. In the subjects of the first sample, three consecutive measurements were taken and repeatability was assessed on the basis of the intra-session test-retest variability and the coefficient of variation. The test offered high repeatability, with test-retest variability ranging between 0.05 and 0.23 Log CS and the coefficient of variation between 0.61 and 4.21%. Normative data did not show a normal distribution. The highest median values were observed at 1.5, 3 and 6 cycles per degree frequencies. At these frequencies a ceiling effect was evident. In cataract patients, postoperative values showed an improvement at all spatial frequencies. In conclusion, the new contrast sensitivity test provides repeatable measurements that can be used for clinical purposes. In patients with healthy eyes and good vision, attention has to be paid to the ceiling effect.
Preparation, characterisation and microbiological examination of Pickering nano-emulsions containing essential oils, and their effect on Streptococcus mutans biofilm treatment
Authors: Horváth Barbara , Balázs Viktória L. , Varga Adorján , Böszörményi Andrea , Kocsis Béla , Horváth Györgyi , Széchenyi Aleksandar
Published: November 2019

Essential oils (EOs) are commonly applied in mouth care products like mouthwashes, mostly as an ethanolic solution or by usage of surfactants as solubilising agents. In this study, we present a formulation for preparation of Pickering nano-emulsions (PnE) of EOs as a novel form for application of EOs in mouth care. For the preparation of PnE, we have synthesised surface-modified silica nanoparticles with a mean diameter of 20 nm, as well as we have examined the effect of EOs concentration on PnE droplet size and stability. In vitro study of their effect on the Streptococcus mutans biofilm as the main pathogen of dental health problems has been performed. We have found that EOs in the PnE form has the highest effectiveness against biofilm formation. Diffusion through the biofilm model membrane was studied to explain this observation. We have found that PnEs have a better performance in the transportation of EOs trough model membrane than the ethanolic solutions and conventional emulsions (CEs).
CO2 separation using composites consisting of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate/CdO/1-aminopyridinium iodide
Authors: Kim Hyun Young , Kang Sang Wook
Published: November 2019

1-Aminopyridinium iodide (iodine salt) was used in CO2 separation composites consisting of CdO and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIM+BF4−). Using iodine salt, the separation performance was largely improved. The CO2/N2 selectivity was 64.6 and the permeance of CO2 gas was 22.6 GPU, which was about twice that of BMIM+BF4−/CdO composites without addition of iodine salt. These results were due to the both effect of iodine salt on the transport of the N2 molecules by the cyclic ring compound and the promoting transport of CO2 molecules by the amine groups. Moreover, the oxide layer on the surface of the CdO could enhance the CO2 solubility, resulting in the enhancement of separation performance. The mechanical and chemical properties were measured using SEM, Raman, TGA and FT-IR. The cross-section of coated membranes was confirmed by SEM. The coordinative interactions of iodine salts with BMIM+BF4−/CdO composite were observed by Raman.
Evolutionary conserved compositional structures hidden in genomes of the foot-and-mouth disease virus and of the human rhinovirus
Authors: Fuertes Miguel Angel , López-Arguello Silvia , Alonso Carlos
Published: November 2019

Picornaviridae family includes several viruses of great economic and medical importance. Among all members of the family we focused our attention on the human rhinovirus, the most important etiologic agent of the common cold and on the foot-and-mouth disease virus that cause of an economically important disease in cattle. Despite the low sequence similarity of the polyprotein coding open reading frames of these highly divergent picornaviruses, they have in common structural and functional similarities including a similar genomic organization, a capsid structure composed of 60 copies of four different proteins, or 3D-structures showing similar general topology, among others. We hypothesized that such similarities could be reflected in emergent common compositional structures interspersed in their genomes which were not observed heretofore. Using a methodology categorizing nucleotide triplets by their gross-composition we have found two human rhinoviruses sharing compositional structures interspersed along their genomic RNA with three foot-and-mouth disease viruses. The shared compositional structures are in one case composed by nucleotide triplets containing all nearest-neighbours of A and G and in other case containing all nearest-neighbours of A, and C. The structures are under strong evolutionary constraints for variability, allowing the access to novel viral genomic motifs with likely biological relevance. The conserved fragments would be useful to predict critical mutation points sites important from the evolutionary point of view.
Effects of ventilatory strategy on arterial oxygenation and respiratory mechanics in overweight and obese patients undergoing posterior spine surgery
Authors: Kim Kyung Mi , Choi Jung Ju , Lee Dongchul , Jung Wol Seon , Kim Su Bin , Kwak Hyun Jeong
Published: November 2019

Prolonged inspiratory to expiratory (I:E) ratio ventilation may improve arterial oxygenation or gas exchange and respiratory mechanics in patients with obesity. We performed a randomised study to compare the effects of the conventional ratio ventilation (CRV) of 1:2 and the equal ratio ventilation (ERV) of 1:1 on arterial oxygenation and respiratory mechanics during spine surgery in overweight and obese patients. Fifty adult patients with a body mass index of ≥25 kg/m2 were randomly allocated to receive an I:E ratio either l:2 (CRV; n = 25) or 1:1 (ERV; n = 25). Arterial oxygenation and respiratory mechanics were recorded in the supine position, and at 30 minutes and 90 minutes after placement in the prone position. The changes in partial arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2) over time did not differ between the groups. The changes in partial arterial carbon dioxide pressure over time were significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.040). The changes in mean airway pressure (Pmean) over time were significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.044). Although ERV provided a significantly higher Pmean than CRV during surgery, the changes in PaO2 did not differ between the two groups.
Higher Risk of Suicide on Milestone Birthdays: Evidence from Japan
Authors: Matsubayashi Tetsuya , Lee Myoung-jae , Ueda Michiko
Published: November 2019

Recent studies suggest that the risk of suicide is higher during and around birthdays. The so-called “birthday blues” might be stronger on birthdays at milestone ages (e.g., 20, 30, 40), as these symbolic ages might represent occasions for existential stock-taking that may highlight failures and underachievement in life. Moreover, in some countries (including Japan), certain symbolic birthdays come with the expectation of celebration with family and friends, and thus such special birthdays may elevate the birthday blues if there is nobody to celebrate the occasion with. This study examines the possibility that there are more suicides on milestone birthdays than on other birthdays or days other than birthdays, using approximately one million individual death records between 1974 and 2014 in Japan. Graphical analysis and Poisson regression analysis showed that suicides occurred more frequently on milestone birthdays when people turn 20, 30, 40, and 60. This pattern was predominately observed in men. Our findings suggest that it is crucial for health professionals and family members to pay close attention to vulnerable individuals as their birthdays approach. In particular, individuals are at a higher risk when birthdays coincide with occasions of social significance, including the ages of adulthood (age 20) and retirement (age 60).