bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of auditory attention on rhythmic speech entrainment
Authors: Sokoliuk Rodika , Degano Giulio , Melloni Lucia , Noppeney Uta , Cruse Damian
Published: May 2020

Language comprehension relies on integrating words into progressively more complex structures, like phrases and sentences. This hierarchical structure building is reflected in rhythmic neural activity across multiple timescales in E/MEG (Ding et al., 2016, 2017).

How does selective attention across levels of the hierarchy influence the expression of these rhythms?

We investigated these questions in an EEG study of 72 healthy human volunteers listening to streams of monosyllabic isochronous English words that were either unrelated (scrambled condition) or composed of four-word-sequences building meaningful sentences (sentential condition). Importantly, there were no physical cues between four-word-sentences but boundaries were marked by syntactic structure and thematic role assignment. Participants were divided into three attention groups: from passive listening(passive group)to attending to individual words(word group)or sentences(sentence group).Thepassiveandword groupwere naïve to the sentential structure of the stimulus material, while thesentence groupwere not.

We found significant entrainment at word- and sentence rate across all three groups, with sentence entrainment linked to left middle temporal gyrus and right superior temporal gyrus. Goal-directed attention to words did not enhance word-rate-entrainment suggesting that word entrainment relies on largely automatic mechanisms. Importantly, goal-directed attention to sentences relative to words significantly increased sentence-rate-entrainment over left inferior frontal gyrus. This attentional modulation of rhythmic EEG activity at the sentential level highlights the role of attention in integrating individual words into complex linguistic structures.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Neural activity is known to entrain to physical characteristics of auditory stimuli. However, entrainment also occurs with structures lacking physical cues but rather require comprehension of the stimulus’ meaning – for example, entrainment to sentences in speech even without acoustic gaps separating these higher linguistic structures.

We investigated how goal-directed attention to low-level (words) and high-level (sentences) linguistic structures influences entrainment strength. Whilst sentence entrainment occurred independently of selective attention, it increased with goal-directed attention towards sentences. Conversely, no such attentional effect was found for word entrainment.

While goal-directed attention towards sentences strengthens entrainment, it is no prerequisite for it to occur, suggesting that low attentional effort is required for sentence comprehension, potentially reflecting the importance of speech in humans.
An Arf/Rab cascade controls the growth and invasiveness of glioblastoma
Authors: Kulasekaran Gopinath , Chaineau Mathilde , Piscopo Valerio E. , Verginelli Federica , Fotouhi Maryam , Girard Martine , Tang Yeman , Dali Rola , Lo Rita , Stifani Stefano , McPherson Peter S.
Published: May 2020

Glioblastoma is the most common and deadly malignant brain cancer. We now demonstrate that loss of function of the endosomal GTPase Rab35 in human brain tumor initiating cells (BTICs) increases glioblastoma growth and decreases animal survival following BTIC implantation in mouse brain. Mechanistically, we identify that the GTPase Arf5 interacts with the guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rab35, DENND1/connecdenn and allosterically enhances its GEF activity towards Rab35. Knockdown of either Rab35 or Arf5 increases cell migration, invasiveness and self-renewal in culture and enhances the growth and invasiveness of BTIC-initiated brain tumors in mice. RNAseq of the tumors reveals upregulation of the tumor-promoting transcription factor SPOCD1, and disruption of the Arf5/Rab35 axis in glioblastoma cells leads to strong activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor with resulting enhancement of SPOCD1 levels. These discoveries reveal an unexpected cascade between an Arf and a Rab and indicate a role for the cascade, and thus endosomal trafficking, in brain tumors.
Body size variability across habitats in theBrachionus plicatiliscryptic species complex
Authors: Walczyńska Aleksandra , Serra Manuel
Published: May 2020

The body size response to temperature is one of the most recognizable but still poorly understood ecological phenomena. Other covarying environmental factors are frequently invoked as either affecting the strength of that response or even driving this pattern. We tested the body size response in five species representing theBrachionus plicatiliscryptic species complex, inhabiting 10 brackish ponds with different environmental characteristics. Principal Component Analysis selected salinity and the oxygen concentration as the most important factors, while temperature and pH were less influential. Path analysis showed a positive interclonal effect of pH on body size. At the interspecific level, the size response was species and factor dependent. Under the lack of a thermos-oxygenic relationship, the expected negative response of size to temperature disappeared, but a positive response of size to oxygen remained. Our results confirm the driving role of oxygen in determining the size-to-temperature patterns observed in the field.
Shared Characteristics of Intrinsic Connectivity Networks Underlying Interoceptive Awareness and Empathy
Authors: Stoica T. , Depue B.E.
Published: May 2020

Awareness of internal bodily sensations (interoception, IA) and its connection to complex socioemotional phenomena like empathy have been postulated, yet its neural basis remains poorly understood. The present fMRI study employs independent component analysis (ICA) to investigate whether the Cognitive or Affective facets of empathy and IA share resting state network connectivity and/or variability (SDBOLD). Healthy participants viewed an abstract movie demonstrated to evoke strong connectivity in resting state brain networks (InScapes), and resultant connectivity and variability data was correlated with self-reported empathy and IA questionnaires. We demonstrate a bidirectional behavioral and neurobiological relationship between empathy and IA, depending on the type of empathy interrogated: Affective empathy and IA share both connectivity and variability, while Cognitive empathy and IA only share variability. Specifically, increased connectivity in the right inferior frontal operculum (rIFO) of a larger attention network was associated with increased vicarious experience but decreased awareness of inner body sensations. Furthermore, increased variability between brain regions of an interoceptive network was related to increased sensitivity to internal sensations along with discomfort alleviation arising from witnessing another’s distress. Finally, increased variability between brain regions subserving a mentalizing network related to not only an improved ability to take someone’s perspective, but also a better sense of mind-body interconnectedness. Overall, these findings suggest that the awareness of one’s own internal body changes (IA) is related to the ability to feel and understand another’s emotional state (empathy) and critically, that this relationship is not task-dependent, but is reflected in the brain’s resting state neuroarchitecture. Methodologically, this work highlights the importance of utilizing network variability as a complementary window alongside functional connectivity to better understand neurological phenomena. Our results may be beneficial in aiding diagnosis in clinical populations such as autism spectrum disorder, where participants may be unable to complete tasks or questionnaires due to the severity of their socioemotional symptoms.
Population genomic analyses of schistosome parasites highlight critical challenges facing end-game elimination efforts
Authors: Shortt Jonathan A. , Timm Laura E. , Hales Nicole R. , Nikolakis Zachary L. , Schield Drew R. , Perry Blair W. , Liu Yang , Zhong Bo , Castoe Todd A. , Carlton Elizabeth J. , Pollock David D.
Published: May 2020

Schistosomiasis persists in some Asian regions despite targeted end-game elimination measures. To determine the causes of this persistence, we performed reduced representation genome sequencing onSchistosoma japonicummiracidia collected across multiple years from transmission hotspots in Sichuan, China. We discovered strong geographic structure, suggesting that local rather than imported reservoirs are key sources of infection persistence. At the village level, parasites collected after praziquantel treatment are closely related to local pre-treatment populations. Schistosomes within villages are also highly related, suggesting that only a few parasites from a limited number of hosts drive re-infection. The close familial relationships among miracidia from different human hosts also implicates short transmission routes among humans. At the individual host level, genetic evidence indicates that multiple humans retain infections following referral for treatment. Our findings suggest that end-game schistosomiasis control measures should focus on completely extirpating local parasite reservoirs and confirming successful treatment of infected human hosts.

One Sentence Summary

Local reservoirs are the source for persistent schistosomiasis infections despite continuous efforts aimed at complete elimination.
Leveraging Tools from Autonomous Navigation for Rapid, Robust Neuron Connectivity
Authors: Drenkow Nathan , Joyce Justin , Matelsky Jordan , Larabi Reem , Heiko Jennifer , Kleissas Dean , Wester Brock , Johnson Erik C. , Gray-Roncal William
Published: May 2020

As biological imaging datasets continue to grow in size, extracting information from large image volumes presents a computationally intensive challenge. State-of-the-art algorithms are almost entirely dominated by the use of convolutional neural network approaches that may be diffcult to run at scale given schedule, cost, and resource limitations. We demonstrate a novel solution for high-resolution electron microscopy brain image volumes that permits the identification of individual neurons and synapses. Instead of conventional approaches whereby voxels are labelled according to the neuron or neuron segment to which they belong, we instead focus on extracting the underlying brain graph represented by synaptic connections between individual neurons while also identifying key features like skeleton similarity and path length. This graph represents a critical step and scaffold for understanding the structure of neuronal circuitry. Our approach recasts the segmentation problem to one of path-finding between keypoints (i.e., connectivity) in an information sharing framework using virtual agents. We create a family of sensors which follow local decision-making rules that perform computationally cheap operations on potential fields to perform tasks such as avoiding cell membranes and finding synapses. These enable a swarm of virtual agents to effciently and robustly traverse three-dimensional datasets, create a sparse segmentation of pathways, and capture connectivity information. We achieve results that meet or exceed state-of-the-art performance at a substantially lower computational cost. This tool offers a categorically different approach to connectome estimation that can augment how we extract connectivity information at scale. Our method is generalizable and may be extended to biomedical imaging problems such as tracing the bronchial trees in lungs or road networks in natural images.
Genetic, morphological, and niche variation in the widely hybridizingRhus integrifolia-Rhus ovataspecies complex
Authors: Barrett Craig F. , Lambert Joshua , Santee Mathilda V. , Sinn Brandon T. , Skibicki Samuel V. , Stephens Heather M. , Thixton Hana
Published: May 2020

Hybridization and introgression are common processes among numerous plant species that present both challenges and opportunities for studies of species delimitation, phylogenetics, taxonomy, and adaptation.Rhus integrifoliaandR. ovataare two ecologically important shrubs native to the southwestern USA and Mexico, and are known to hybridize frequently, but the morphological, genetic, and ecological implications of hybridization in these species are poorly studied on a broad geographic scale. Analyses were conducted using leaf morphology, genetic variation of plastid and nuclear loci, and species distribution models for both species and their putative hybrid introgressants across 19 localities in California and Arizona, USA. These analyses revealed evidence for morphological and genetic distinction among localities comprising putative parental species, but a high degree of morpho-genetic intermediacy among localities with putative hybrids. Comparison of morphological and genetic population structure among localities revealed evidence for putative local adaptation or widespread phenotypic plasticity. Multiple regression models identified a weak but statistically significant negative association between leaf area and precipitation. Finally, species distribution modeling inferred northward range shifts over time, with both species predicted to occupy more coastal regions in the future, possibly increasing the frequency of hybridization among them. These findings underscore the importance of integrative assessment of multiple data sources in the study of hybridizing species and highlight theRhus integrifolia-ovatacomplex as a powerful model for investigating the adaptive implications of hybridization.
isoTarget: a genetic method for analyzing the functional diversity of splicing isoformsin vivo
Authors: Liu Hao , Pizzano Sarah , Li Ruonan , Zhao Wenquan , Veling Macy W. , Hu Yujia , Yang Limin , Ye Bing
Published: May 2020

Protein isoforms generated by alternative splicing contribute to proteome diversity. Due to the lack of effective techniques, isoform-specific functions, expression, localization, and signaling mechanisms of endogenous proteinsin vivoare unknown for most genes. Here we report a genetic method, termedisoTarget, for blocking the expression of a targeted isoform without affecting the other isoforms and for conditional tagging the targeted isoform for multi-level analyses in select cells. ApplyingisoTargetto two mutually exclusive isoforms ofDrosophilaDscam, Dscam[TM1] and [TM2], we found that endogenous Dscam[TM1] is localized in dendrites while Dscam[TM2] is in both dendrites and axons. We demonstrate that the difference in subcellular localization between Dscam[TM1] and [TM2], rather than any difference in biochemical properties, leads to the two isoforms’ differential contributions to dendrite and axon development. Moreover, withisoTarget, we discovered that the subcellular enrichment of functional partners results in a DLK/Wallenda-Dscam[TM2]-Dock signaling cascade specifically in axons.isoTargetis an effective technique for studying how alternative splicing enhances proteome complexity.
Novel Loss-of-Function Mutations inCOCHCause Autosomal Recessive Nonsyndromic Deafness
Authors: Booth Kevin T , Ghaffar Amama , Rashid Muhammad , Hovey Luke T , Hussain Mureed , Frees Kathy , Renkes Erika M , Nishimura Carla J , Shahzad Mohsin , Smith Richard J , Ahmed Zubair , Azaiez Hela , Riazuddin Saima
Published: May 2020

COCHis the most abundantly expressed gene in the cochlea. Unsurprisingly, mutations inCOCHunderly deafness in mice and humans. Two forms of deafness are linked to mutations inCOCH, the well-established autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss, with or without vestibular dysfunction (DFNA9) via a gain-of-function/dominant-negative mechanism, and more recently autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (DFNB110) via nonsense variants. Using a combination of targeted gene panels, exome sequencing and functional studies, we identified four novel pathogenic variants (two nonsense variants, one missense and one inframe deletion) inCOCHas the cause of autosomal recessive hearing loss in a multi-ethnic cohort. To investigate whether the non-truncating variants exert their effect via a loss-of-function mechanism, we used mini-gene splicing assays. Our data showed both the missense and inframe deletion variants altered RNA-splicing by creating an exon splicing silencer and abolishing an exon splicing enhancer, respectively. Both variants create frameshifts and are predicted to result in a null allele. This study confirms the involvement of loss-of-function mutations inCOCHin autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss, expands the mutational landscape of DFNB110 to include coding variants that alter RNA-splicing, and highlights the need to investigate the effect of coding variants on RNA-splicing.
New genotypic adaptability and stability analyses using Legendre polynomials and genotype-ideotype distances
Authors: de Souza Michel Henriques , Júnior José Domingos Pereira , De Marco Steckling Skarlet , Mencalha Jussara , dos Santos Dias Fabíola , de Carvalho Rocha João Romero do Amaral Santos , Carneiro Pedro Crescêncio Souza , de Souza Carneiro José Eustáquio
Published: May 2020

Developing cultivars with superior performance in different cultivation environments is one of the main challenges of breeding programs. The current adaptability and stability analyses have limitations, especially when used with trials with genetic or statistical imbalances, heterogeneity of residual variances, and genetic covariance. Thus, adaptability and stability analyses based on mixed model approaches are an effective alternative in such cases. We propose a new methodology for genotypic adaptability and stability analyses, based on Legendre polynomials and genotype-ideotype distances aiming at greater precision when recommending cultivars. We applied the methodology to a set of common bean cultivars throughout a multi-environment trial. We used a set of 13 trials, where they were classified in unfavorable or favorable environments, depending on the average of the cultivars in these trials. The results showed that the methodology allows to predict the genotypic values of cultivars in environments where they were not evaluated with high accuracy values, therefore circumventing the imbalance of the experiments. From these values, it was possible to measure the genotypic adaptability according to ideotypes. The stability of the cultivars was quantified as the invariance of their behavior throughout the trials. The use of ideotypes based on real data allowed a better comparison of the performance of cultivars across environments.
SARS-CoV2 quantification using RT-dPCR: a faster and safer alternative to assist viral genomic copies assessment using RT-qPCR
Authors: de Almeida Paula Rodrigues , Demoliner Meriane , Antunes Eisen Ana Karolina , Heldt Fágner Henrique , Hansen Alana Witt , Schallenberger Karoline , Fleck Juliane Deise , Spilki Fernando Rosado
Published: May 2020

In this study, serial dilutions of SARS-CoV 2 RNA extract were tested using RT-dPCR using three different primer-probe assays aiming SARS-CoV 2 nucleocapsid coding region. Narrower confidence intervals, indicating high quantification precision were obtained in 100 and 1000-fold serial dilution and RT-dPCR results were equivalent between different assays in the same dilution. High accuracy of this test allowed conclusions regarding the ability of this technique to evaluate precisely the amount of genomic copies present in a sample. We believe that this fast and safe method can assist other researchers in titration of SARS-CoV2 controls used in RT-qPCR without the need of virus isolation.
Developing process and product innovation through internal and external knowledge sources in manufacturing Malaysian firms: the role of absorptive capacity
Authors: Ramayah T. , Soto-Acosta Pedro , Kheng Khoo Kah , Mahmud Imran
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Firms' knowledge-processing capabilities have a central role in achieving innovation performance and competitive advantage. Absorptive capacity capabilities and innovation are viewed as essential for enterprise success. Absorptive capacity is deemed as a highly important organizational capability to recognize value and assimilate both external and internal knowledge in order to enhance firm innovation. The aim of this study is to determine if innovation performance can be improved through absorptive capacity (knowledge acquisition, dissemination and utilization), when it is supported by internal (firm experience) and external knowledge sources (R&D cooperation and contracted R&D).

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative methodology based on employing a structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The proposed research model and its associated hypotheses are tested by using Partial Least Squares (PLS) structural equation modelling (SEM) on a data set of 248 manufacturing companies located in the Northern Region of Malaysia.

Findings

Results showed that firms' experience is significantly related to absorptive capacity, while for R&D cooperation and contracted R&D findings were mixed. In addition, absorptive capacity was found as a strong predictor of innovation performance.

Originality/value

One of the defining features of competition in many industries has been the extremely rapid pace of technological change, marked by a continuous stream of innovations. Manufacturing firms, therefore, face the challenge of nurturing existing knowledge and developing novel knowledge in order to create new business opportunities. This study makes valuable contributions with regard to understanding the behavioural of manufacturing firms towards process and product innovation.
Developing a new BWM-based GMAFMA approach for evaluation of potential risks and failure modes in production processes
Authors: Kolagar Milad , Hosseini Seyed Mohammad Hassan , Felegari Ramin
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Nowadays, the risk assessment and reliability engineering of various production processes have become an inevitable necessity. Because if these risks are not going to be evaluated and no solution is going to be taken for their prevention, managing them would be really hard and costly in case of their occurrence. The importance of this issue is much higher in producing healthcare products due to their quality's direct impact on the health of individuals and society.

Design/methodology/approach

One of the most common approaches of risk assessment is the failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), which is facing some limitations in practice. In this research, a new generalized multi-attribute failure mode analysis approach has been proposed by utilizing the best–worst method and linguistic 2-tuple representation in order to evaluate the production process of hemodialysis solution in a case of Tehran, Iran.

Findings

According to the results, entry of waste to the mixing tanker, impurity of raw materials and ingredients and fracture of the mixer screw have been identified as the most important potential failures. At last, the results of this research have been compared with the previous studies.

Originality/value

Some reinforcement attributes have been added to the traditional FMEA attributes in order to improve the results. Also, the problems of identical weights for attributes, inaccuracy in experts' opinions and the uncertainties in prioritizing the potential failures were improved. Furthermore, in addition to the need for less comparative data, the proposed approach is more accurate and comprehensive in its results.
Pest control potential of adjacent agri‐environment schemes varies with crop type and is shaped by landscape context and within‐field position
Authors: Boetzl Fabian A. , Schuele Maren , Krauss Jochen , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf
Published: May 2020

Increasing natural pest control in agricultural fields is an important aim of ecological intensification. Combined effects of landscape context and local placement of agri‐environmental schemes (AES) on natural pest control and within‐field distance functions of natural pest control agents have rarely been addressed but might affect the distribution of biocontrol providers. Importantly, it is currently unknown whether ecosystem services provided by adjacent AES are consistent for different crop types during crop rotation.

In this study, we assessed whether crop rotation from oilseed rape to cereals altered within‐field distance functions of ground‐dwelling predators from adjacent agri‐environmental fields along a gradient in landscape context. Additionally, we recorded crop pests, predation rates, parasitoids as well as crop yields on a total of 30 study sites.

Distance functions varied between trophic levels: Carabid richness decreased while densities of carabid beetles, staphylinid beetles as well as crop yields increased towards the field centres. Distance functions of parasitoids and pests were modulated by the amount of semi‐natural habitat in the surrounding landscape, while the effects of adjacent AES were limited.

Distance decay functions found for ground‐dwelling predators in oilseed rape in the previous year were not always present in cereals. Increasing distance to the field edge also increased effects of crop rotation on carabid beetle assemblages, indicating a source habitat function of field edges.

Synthesis and applications. Distance functions of natural pest control are not universal and the effects of agri‐environmental schemes (AES) in different adjacent crops during crop rotation vary and depend on ecological contrasts. A network of semi‐natural habitats and spatially optimized AES habitats can benefit pest control in agricultural landscapes, but constraints as a result of crop type need to be addressed by annually targeted, spatially shifting agri‐environment schemes for different crops.
Domestic and family violence, non‐lethal strangulation and social work intervention in the emergency department
Authors: Marks Jacqueline , Markwell Alexandra , Randell Thomas , Hughes James
Published: May 2020

Objective

To review domestic and family violence (DFV) and non‐lethal strangulation (NLS) presentations to an ED with 24‐h social work.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 12 months of DFV presentations comparing demographics, perpetrator relationship, social work review, injuries and NLS incidence and assessment.

Results

Women represent 90% of DFV presentations. In 26% of DFV presentations NLS was identified, with 47.5% clinically assessed appropriately. Social work did not review 34% of DFV presentations, 64% due to no referral.

Conclusions

Social work referral for DFV is regularly missed despite 24‐h access. Assessment of NLS in ED requires improvement and standardised national guidelines.
Immunity and Hypertension
Authors: Zhang Rong M. , McNerney Kyle P. , Riek Amy E. , Bernal‐Mizrachi Carlos
Published: May 2020

Hypertension is the primary cause of cardiovascular mortality. Despite multiple existing treatments, only half of those with the disease achieve adequate control. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms causing hypertension is essential for the development of novel therapies. Many studies demonstrate that immune cell infiltration of the vessel wall, kidney and central nervous system, as well as their counterparts of oxidative stress, the renal renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) and sympathetic tone play a critical role in the development of hypertension. Genetically modified mice lacking components of innate and/or adaptive immunity confirm the importance of chronic inflammation in hypertension and its complications. Depletion of immune cells improves endothelial function, decreases oxidative stress, reduces vascular tone and prevents renal interstitial infiltrates, sodium retention and kidney damage. Moreover, the ablation of microglia or central nervous system perivascular macrophages reduces RAS‐induced inflammation and prevents sympathetic nervous system activation and hypertension. Therefore, understanding immune cell functioning and their interactions with tissues that regulate hypertensive responses may be the future of novel antihypertensive therapies.
New clinical needs and strategies for care in children with neurodisability during COVID‐19
Authors: Fazzi Elisa , Galli Jessica
Published: May 2020

Video Podcast: https://youtu.be/pmY-5yy7a1c
Violence Against Women: A Cross‐cultural Analysis for Africa
Authors: Alesina Alberto , Brioschi Benedetta , La Ferrara Eliana
Published: May 2020

Using a new dataset, we investigate violence against women in Africa. We focus on cultural factors arising from pre‐colonial customs, and show that these factors determined social norms about gender roles, family structures and intra‐family violence, which persisted even when the initial conditions change. A first set of ancestral characteristics relates to women's economic role: ethnic groups where women participated less in production (e.g. due to plough agriculture, husbandry or fishing) have higher levels of violence against women today, and more acceptance of it. A second set of ancestral characteristics pertains to marriage patterns and living arrangements. Endogamy and co‐residence with the husband's family are strongly positively associated with both the level and the acceptance of domestic violence. We also uncover a sizeable gender gap in attitudes towards violence, with women being more likely to justify violence compared to men. This gap is predicted by differences in demographic characteristics and by ancestral characteristics, such as co‐residence with the husband's family and the use of the plough. Our analysis sheds light on the origin, and long‐term persistence, of gender norms conducive to gender‐based violence.
Tablet‐based electroencephalography diagnostics for patients with epilepsy in the West African Republic of Guinea
Authors: Sokolov E. , Abdoul Bachir D. H. , Sakadi F. , Williams J. , Vogel A. C. , Schaekermann M. , Tassiou N. , Bah A. K. , Khatri V. , Hotan G. C. , Ayub N. , Leung E. , Fantaneanu T. A. , Patel A. , Vyas M. , Milligan T. , Villamar M. F. , Hoch D. , Purves S. , Esmaeili B. , Stanley M. , Lehn‐Schioler T. , Tellez‐Zenteno J. , Gonzalez‐Giraldo E. , Tolokh I. , Heidarian L. , Worden L. , Jadeja N. , Fridinger S. , Lee L. , Law E. , Fodé Abass C. , Mateen F. J.
Published: May 2020

Background and purpose

Epilepsy is most common in lower‐income settings where access to electroencephalography (EEG) is generally poor. A low‐cost tablet‐based EEG device may be valuable, but the quality and reproducibility of the EEG output are not established.

Methods

Tablet‐based EEG was deployed in a heterogeneous epilepsy cohort in the Republic of Guinea (2018–2019), consisting of a tablet wirelessly connected to a 14‐electrode cap. Participants underwent EEG twice (EEG1 and EEG2), separated by a variable time interval. Recordings were scored remotely by experts in clinical neurophysiology as to data quality and clinical utility.

Results

There were 149 participants (41% female; median age 17.9 years; 66.6% ≤21 years of age; mean seizures per month 5.7 ± SD 15.5). The mean duration of EEG1 was 53 ± 12.3 min and that of EEG2 was 29.6 ± 12.8 min. The mean quality scores of EEG1 and EEG2 were 6.4 [range, 1 (low) to 10 (high); both medians 7.0]. A total of 44 (29.5%) participants had epileptiform discharges (EDs) at EEG1 and 25 (16.8%) had EDs at EEG2. EDs were focal/multifocal (rather than generalized) in 70.1% of EEG1 and 72.5% of EEG2 interpretations. A total of 39 (26.2%) were recommended for neuroimaging after EEG1 and 22 (14.8%) after EEG2. Of participants without EDs at EEG1 (n = 53, 55.8%), seven (13.2%) had EDs at EEG2. Of participants with detectable EDs on EEG1 (n = 23, 24.2%), 12 (52.1%) did not have EDs at EEG2.

Conclusions

Tablet‐based EEG had a reproducible quality level on repeat testing and was useful for the detection of EDs. The incremental yield of a second EEG in this setting was ~13%. The need for neuroimaging access was evident.
Formation of micro‐spherulitic barite in association with organic matter within sulfidized stromatolites of the 3.48 billion‐year‐old Dresser Formation, Pilbara Craton
Authors: Baumgartner Raphael J. , Van Kranendonk Martin J. , Fiorentini Marco L. , Pagès Anais , Wacey David , Kong Charlie , Saunders Martin , Ryan Chris
Published: May 2020

The shallow marine and subaerial sedimentary and hydrothermal rocks of the ~3.48 billion‐year‐old Dresser Formation are host to some of Earth's oldest stromatolites and microbial remains. This study reports on texturally distinctive, spherulitic barite micro‐mineralization that occur in association with primary, autochthonous organic matter within exceptionally preserved, strongly sulfidized stromatolite samples obtained from drill cores. Spherulitic barite micro‐mineralization within the sulfidized stromatolites generally forms submicron‐scale aggregates that show gradations from hollow to densely crystallized, irregular to partially radiating crystalline interiors. Several barite micro‐spherulites show thin outer shells. Within stromatolites, barite micro‐spherulites are intimately associated with petrographically earliest dolomite and nano‐porous pyrite enriched in organic matter, the latter of which is a possible biosignature assemblage that hosts microbial remains. Barite spherulites are also observed within layered barite in proximity to stromatolite layers, where they are overgrown by compositionally distinct (Sr‐rich), coarsely crystalline barite that may have been sourced from hydrothermal veins at depth. Micro‐spherulitic barite, such as reported here, is not known from hydrothermal systems that exceed the upper temperature limit for life. Rather, barite with near‐identical morphology and micro‐texture is known from zones of high bio‐productivity under low‐temperature conditions in the modern oceans, where microbial activity and/or organic matter of degrading biomass controls the formation of spherulitic aggregates. Hence, the presence of micro‐spherulitic barite in the organic matter‐bearing Dresser Formation sulfidized stromatolites lend further support for a biogenic origin of these unusual, exceptionally well‐preserved, and very ancient microbialites.
Glass resistance to radiation–part I: Preliminary investigation of three commercial glass fibers
Authors: Zu Qun , Song Wei , Zeng Huidan , Yu Xiaowu , Huang Songlin , Huang Sanxi , Li Hong
Published: May 2020

The effects of γ‐radiation on properties of three types of commercial alkaline earth aluminosilicate glasses (NJE, NJ1, NJ2) were investigated at 5M Gy dosage, using samples of bulk glass, glass fiber, and fiber reinforced laminate epoxy composite. The radiation‐induced defect generation and structural modifications in the bulk glasses were characterized by UV‐VIS‐NIR, FTIR absorption spectroscopy, respectively. Strong radiation resistance was found in NJ2 composed of high content of glass former such as Si and Al, together with variable Fe and Ce oxide. Mechanical properties of the fiber woven fabric taps and reinforced laminate composites were investigated before and after the irradiation. While the tap samples showed minor property degradations after the irradiation, all composite samples degraded by greater than 19% in tensile strength and greater than 55% in interlaminate shear strength (ILSS) at 5M Gy dose level. Deterioration of the composite mechanical properties is primarily attributed to the radiation damage to the epoxy resin and in turn, the failure mode of the irradiated composite samples is dominated by delamination at the interfaces between the fiber glass tapes and the resin under the applied tensile load or shear as compared with the failure mode of fiber breakages for their counterparts without γ‐irradiation.
Contact with Mental Health Services After Acute Care for Self‐Harm Among Adults Released from Prison: A Prospective Data Linkage Study
Authors: Young Jesse T. , Borschmann Rohan , Heffernan Ed , Spittal Matthew J. , Brophy Lisa , Ogloff James R. P. , Moran Paul , Armstrong Gregory , Preen David B. , Kinner Stuart A.
Published: May 2020

Objective

To determine the care pathway and rate and predictors of mental health care contact within seven days of discharge from acute care following self‐harm.

Method

In a representative cohort of adults released from prisons in Queensland, Australia, we probabilistically linked person‐level, statewide ambulance, emergency department, and hospital records, both prospectively and retrospectively, and community mental health service and Medicare records prospectively, to baseline survey data. We fit multivariate modified log‐linked Poisson regression models to examine the association between sociodemographic, health, and criminal justice factors and mental health care contact after self‐harm.

Results

Of 217 discharges from acute care following self‐harm, 55% (n = 119) received mental health care within seven days of discharge. Mental health care contact was associated with substance use disorder (adjusted relative risk (ARR) = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.27–0.85), dual diagnosis (ARR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.41–0.82), physical health‐related functioning (ARR = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97–0.99), being female (ARR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.02–1.90), being identified as at risk of self‐harm by correctional authorities (ARR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.07–2.09), and prior engagement with state‐funded mental health care (ARR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.08–2.22).

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the need to improve the integration of community mental health care for people who present to acute care following self‐harm with a recent history of incarceration, particularly for men and those with substance use disorder or dual diagnosis.
A case study of 10 patients administered HBOC‐201 in high doses over a prolonged period: outcomes during severe anemia when transfusion is not an option
Authors: Zumberg Marc , Gorlin Jed , Griffiths Elizabeth A. , Schwartz Garry , Fletcher Bradley S. , Walsh Katherine , Dao Kim‐Hien , Vansandt Amanda , Lynn Mauricio , Shander Aryeh
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Hemoglobin‐Based Oxygen Carriers (HBOCs) can act as an “oxygen bridge” in acute severe anemia when transfusion is indicated, but not possible. We present data on 10 Expanded Access (EA) patients treated with high cumulative doses of Hemopure (HBOC‐201), to assess the ability of HBOC‐201 to safely treat life threatening anemia in situations where high volumes of product were administered over an extended period of time.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Inclusion in this study required that the patient receive at least 10 units of HBOC‐201 between 2014 and 2017 under the FDA‐sanctioned EA program. Depending on a patient's geographical location, treatment with HBOC‐201 was obtained through either a single patient emergency Investigational New Drug (IND) application, or an intermediate size population IND. Of the 41 patients who were treated during this period, 10 patients received 10 or more units of the product. Data were obtained from medical records.

RESULTS

Treatments with HBOC‐201 started within 24 hours of signing consent and were administered at an average rate of 1.99 (SD 0.17) units per day over a mean of 8.2 days (SD 2.9), during which patients received on average 16.2 units (SD 5.7 units) of HBOC‐201. The median pre‐treatment nadir corpuscular hemoglobin (Hb) concentration was 3.3 (SD 0.9) g/dL and post‐treatment Hemoglobin was 7.3 (SD 1.7) g/dL. Common side effects included methemoglobinemia, gastrointestinal symptoms, and hypertension. However, no product‐related serious adverse events (SAEs) were noted. All patients survived.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of HBOC‐201 over an extended period is a feasible and safe oxygen bridge for severely anemic patients who cannot be transfused with RBC.
A new antigen SUMI carried on glycophorin A encoded by the GYPA*M with c.91A>C (p.Thr31Pro) belongs to the MNS blood group system
Authors: Ito Shoichi , Kaito Sayaka , Miyazaki Toru , Kikuchi Go , Isa Kazumi , Tsuneyama Hatsue , Kurita Ryo , Ogasawara Kenichi , Uchikawa Makoto , Satake Masahiro
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

MNS is one of the highly polymorphic blood groups comprising many antigens generated by genomic recombination among the GYPA, GYPB, and GYPE genes as well as by single‐nucleotide changes. We report a patient with red blood cell (RBC) antibody against an unknown low‐frequency antigen, tentatively named SUMI, and investigated its carrier molecule and causal gene.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Standard serologic tests, including enzyme tests, were performed. Monoclonal anti‐SUMI–producing cells (HIRO‐305) were established by transformation and hybridization methods using lymphocytes from a donor having anti‐SUMI. SUMI+ RBCs were examined by immunocomplex capture fluorescence analysis (ICFA) using HIRO‐305 and murine monoclonal antibodies against RBC membrane proteins carrying blood group antigens. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood, and the GYPA gene was analyzed by polymerase chain reactions and Sanger sequencing.

RESULTS

Serologic screening revealed that 23 of the 541,522 individuals (0.0042%) were SUMI+, whereas 1351 of the 10,392 individuals (13.0%) had alloanti‐SUMI. SUMI antigen was sensitive to ficin, trypsin, pronase, and neuraminidase, but resistant to α‐chymotrypsin and sulfydryl‐reducing agents. ICFA revealed that the SUMI antigen was carried on glycophorin A (GPA). According to Sanger sequencing and cloning, the SUMI+ individuals had a GYPA*M allele with c.91A>C (p.Thr31Pro), which may abolish the O‐glycan attachment site.

CONCLUSIONS

The new low‐frequency antigen SUMI is carried on GPA encoded by the GYPA*M allele with c.91A>C (p.Thr31Pro). Neuraminidase sensitivity suggests that glycophorin around Pro31 are involved in the SUMI determinant.
Mitochondrial lactate metabolism: history and implications for exercise and disease
Authors: Glancy Brian , Kane Daniel A. , Kavazis Andreas N. , Goodwin Matthew L. , Willis Wayne T. , Gladden L. Bruce
Published: May 2020

Mitochondrial structures were probably observed microscopically in the 1840s, but the idea of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) within mitochondria did not appear until the 1930s. The foundation for research into energetics arose from Meyerhof's experiments on oxidation of lactate in isolated muscles recovering from electrical contractions in an O2 atmosphere. Today, we know that mitochondria are actually reticula and that the energy released from electron pairs being passed along the electron transport chain from NADH to O2 generates a membrane potential and pH gradient of protons that can enter the molecular machine of ATP synthase to resynthesize ATP. Lactate stands at the crossroads of glycolytic and oxidative energy metabolism. Based on reported research and our own modelling in silico, we contend that lactate is not directly oxidized in the mitochondrial matrix. Instead, the interim glycolytic products (pyruvate and NADH) are held in cytosolic equilibrium with the products of the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) reaction and the intermediates of the malate‐aspartate and glycerol 3‐phosphate shuttles. This equilibrium supplies the glycolytic products to the mitochondrial matrix for OXPHOS. LDH in the mitochondrial matrix is not compatible with the cytoplasmic/matrix redox gradient; its presence would drain matrix reducing power and substantially dissipate the proton motive force. OXPHOS requires O2 as the final electron acceptor, but O2 supply is sufficient in most situations, including exercise and often acute illness. Recent studies suggest that atmospheric normoxia may constitute a cellular hyperoxia in mitochondrial disease. As research proceeds appropriate oxygenation levels should be carefully considered.

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Trajectory-Tracking-Based Adaptive Neural Network Sliding Mode Controller for Robot Manipulators
Authors: Ren Bin , Wang Yao , Chen Jiayu
Published: May 2020

Unpredictable disturbances and chattering are the major challenges of the robot manipulator control. In recent years, trajectory-tracking-based controllers have been recognized by many researchers as the most promising method to understand robot dynamics with uncertainties and improve robot control. However, reliable trajectory-tracking-based controllers require high model precision and complexity. To develop an agile and straightforward method to mitigate the impact caused by uncertain disturbance and chattering, this study proposed an adaptive neural network sliding mode controller based on the super-twisting algorithm. The proposed model not only can minimize the tracking error but also improve the system robustness with a simpler structure. Moreover, the proposed controller has the following two distinctive features: (1) the weights of the radial basis function (RBF network) are designed to be adjusted in real-time and (2) the prior knowledge of the actual robot system is not required. The analytical model of the proposed controller was proved to be stable and ensured by the Lyapunov theory. To validate the proposed model, this study also conducted a comparative simulation on a two-link robot manipulator system with the conventional sliding mode controller and the model-based controller. The results suggest the proposed model improved the control accuracy and had fewer chattering.
Modeling commercial vehicle trip generation at the business-establishment level
Authors: Madar Georgiana , Maoh Hanna , Gingerich Kevin
Published: May 2020

The planning and design of efficient transportation systems require an in-depth understanding of the micro-behaviour governing vehicle movements. Recent efforts to analyze commercial vehicle movements have begun focusing on the collection and usage of detailed microdata sets. This paper contributes to these efforts by devising statistical models for predicting the number of outbound commercial vehicle trips at the firm level given a sample of establishments in the Windsor, Ontario region. A comparison was made between a model that can be created using microdata obtained through an establishment survey, a model that utilized commercial firm lists with basic firm attributes that include employment size and industry classification, and a modified model with the basic variables and limited detailed microdata. The results suggest that commercial firm datasets can be used to generate reasonable predictions. However, additional information about employment, industry, vehicle ownership and other firm characteristics certainly enhance the models’ predictive ability.