bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulations of Myenteric Neuron Dynamics in Response to Mechanical Stretch
Authors: Liao Donghua , Zhao Jingbo , Gregersen Hans
Published: October 2020

Background. Intestinal sensitivity to mechanical stimuli has been studied intensively in visceral pain studies. The ability to sense different stimuli in the gut and translate these to physiological outcomes relies on the mechanosensory and transductive capacity of intrinsic intestinal nerves. However, the nature of the mechanosensitive channels and principal mechanical stimulus for mechanosensitive receptors are unknown. To be able to characterize intestinal mechanoelectrical transduction, that is, the molecular basis of mechanosensation, comprehensive mathematical models to predict responses of the sensory neurons to controlled mechanical stimuli are needed. This study aims to develop a biophysically based mathematical model of the myenteric neuron with the parameters constrained by learning from existing experimental data. Findings. The conductance-based single-compartment model was selected. The parameters in the model were optimized by using a combination of hand tuning and automated estimation. Using the optimized parameters, the model successfully predicted the electrophysiological features of the myenteric neurons with and without mechanical stimulation. Conclusions. The model provides a method to predict features and levels of detail of the underlying physiological system in generating myenteric neuron responses. The model could be used as building blocks in future large-scale network simulations of intrinsic primary afferent neurons and their network.
Rapid and Nondestructive Determination of Egg Freshness Category and Marked Date of Lay using Spectral Fingerprint
Authors: Akowuah Thomas O. S. , Teye Ernest , Hagan Julius , Nyandey Kwasi
Published: October 2020

The potential of nondestructive prediction of egg freshness based on near-infrared (NIR) spectra fingerprints would be beneficial to quality control officers and consumers alike. In this study, handheld NIR spectrometer in the range of 740 nm to 1070 nm and chemometrics were used to simultaneously determine egg freshness based on marked date of lay for eggs stored under cold and ambient conditions. The spectra acquired from the eggs were preprocessed using multiplicative scatter correction and principal component analysis (MSC-PCA). Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was used to build identification model to predict the category of freshness, while partial least square regression (PLS-R) was used to determine the marked date of lay. The performance of LDA model was above 95% identification rate in both calibration and prediction set for the eggs stored under ambient and cold storage. For eggs stored in ambient storage, LDA had 95.54% identification rate at 5 principal components, while at cold storage LDA has 100% identification rate at 5 principal components for determining the marked date of lay, and partial least square regression (PLS-R) gave R = 0.87 and RMSEI = 2.57 for ambient storage and R = 0.88 and RMSEI = 2.66 for cold storage in independent set, respectively. The results show that handheld spectrometer and multivariate analysis could be used for rapid and nondestructive measurement of egg freshness. This provides a novel solution for egg integrity prediction along the value chain.
Spoligotype Diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis over Two Decades from Tiruvallur, South India
Authors: Siva Kumar S. , Ashok Kumar S. , Sekar Gomathi , Devika K. , Bhasker M. , Sriram S. , Dolla C. K. , Menon Pradeep Aravindan , Tripathy Srikanth Prasad , Narayanan P. R. , Ranganathan Uma Devi , Narayanan Sujatha , Mondal Rajesh
Published: October 2020

Geographically, most tuberculosis (TB) cases in 2018 were reported from India. This TB burden is compounded by MDR-TB and XDR-TB. The strategies for the management and control of TB in the community depend on an understanding of the mode of spread of the different strains of TB isolates in the community. To determine the distribution and trends of M. tb strains over the time period in the community due to treatment, we carried out the present study on changes over two decades. Design/Methods. A total of 1218  M. tb isolates (year: 2001–2018) from Tiruvallur, India, were genotyped by spoligotyping after DNA extraction and subjected to anti-TB drug susceptibility testing for the first-line anti-TB drugs. Results. On analysis with the SpolDB4 database, majority (2001–2003: 53.32% and 2015–2018: 46.3%) of the isolates belonged to East African Indian (EAI) lineage, and the orphans designated in comparison to SpolDB4 stood 33% among 2001–2003 strain collection and 46.3% among 2015–2018 strain collection. 10.2% (2001–2003) and 9.26% (2015 to 2018) of isolates were monoresistant to isoniazid (H). MDR strains were less common among EAI strains (3.2%) compared to non-EAI strains (10.32%). Conclusions. EAI is the most predominant lineage in Tiruvallur, despite the presence of highly transmissible lineages like Beijing for the last two decades. The prevalence of MDR-TB is below the national average of 2-3% among the new TB cases in the last two decades. The reason can be attributed to the well-established nature of the locally circulating strains in this region which are not associated with drug resistance.
Gastric Outlet Obstruction as the Initial Presentation of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Andersen Karl , Burroughs Sarah , Munis Assad , Hoff Ryan T. , Shapiro Alan
Published: October 2020

GOO is often the first sign of advanced upper gastrointestinal neoplasms. The most common neoplasms associated with GOO include gastric, pancreatic, and biliary tract cancers. Urinary tract urothelial carcinoma has been a rarely documented cause of GOO.
Acute Intermittent Porphyria in a Man with Dual Enzyme Deficiencies
Authors: Cerbino G. N. , Assali L. Abou , Varela L. S. , Tomassi L. , Batlle A. , Parera V. E. , Rossetti M. V.
Published: October 2020

Porphyrias are a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders that result from the altered activity of specific enzymes of the heme biosynthetic pathway and are characterized by accumulation of pathway intermediates. Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is the most common porphyria and is due to deficient activity of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase (UROD). Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is the most common of the acute hepatic porphyrias, caused by decreased activity of hydroxymethylbilane synthase (HMBS). An Argentinean man with a family history of PCT who carried the UROD variant c.10_11insA suffered severe abdominal pain. Biochemical testing was consistent with AIP, and molecular analysis of HMBS revealed a de novo variant: c.344 + 2_ + 5delTAAG. This is one of the few cases of porphyria identified with both UROD and HMBS mutations and the first confirmed case of porphyria with dual enzyme deficiencies in Argentina.
The Importance of Telemedicine during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Focus on Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Galiero Raffaele , Pafundi Pia Clara , Nevola Riccardo , Rinaldi Luca , Acierno Carlo , Caturano Alfredo , Salvatore Teresa , Adinolfi Luigi Elio , Costagliola Ciro , Sasso Ferdinando Carlo
Published: October 2020

Recently, telemedicine has become remarkably important, due to increased deployment and development of digital technologies. National and international guidelines should consider its inclusion in their updates. During the COVID-19 pandemic, mandatory social distancing and the lack of effective treatments has made telemedicine the safest interactive system between patients, both infected and uninfected, and clinicians. A few potential evidence-based scenarios for the application of telemedicine have been hypothesized. In particular, its use in diabetes and complication monitoring has been remarkably increasing, due to the high risk of poor prognosis. New evidence and technological improvements in telemedicine application in diabetic retinopathy (DR) have demonstrated efficacy and usefulness in screening. Moreover, despite an initial increase for devices and training costs, teleophthalmology demonstrated a good cost-to-efficacy ratio; however, no national screening program has yet focused on DR prevention and diagnosis. Lack of data during the COVID-19 pandemic strongly limits the possibility of tracing the real management of the disease, which is only conceivable from past evidence in normal conditions. The pandemic further stressed the importance of remote monitoring. However, the deployment of device and digital application used to increase screening of individuals and monitor progression of retinal disease needs to be easily accessible to general practitioners.
Hypofractionated FLASH-RT as an Effective Treatment against Glioblastoma that Reduces Neurocognitive Side Effects in Mice
Authors: Montay-Gruel Pierre , Acharya Munjal M. , Gonçalves Jorge Patrik , Petit Benoît , Petridis Ioannis G. , Fuchs Philippe , Leavitt Ron , Petersson Kristoffer , Gondré Maude , Ollivier Jonathan , Moeckli Raphael , Bochud François , Bailat Claude , Bourhis Jean , Germond Jean-François , Limoli Charles L. , Vozenin Marie-Catherine
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

Recent data have shown that single-fraction irradiation delivered to the whole brain in less than tenths of a second using FLASH radiotherapy (FLASH-RT), does not elicit neurocognitive deficits in mice. This observation has important clinical implications for the management of invasive and treatment-resistant brain tumors that involves relatively large irradiation volumes with high cytotoxic doses.

Experimental Design:

Therefore, we aimed at simultaneously investigating the antitumor efficacy and neuroprotective benefits of FLASH-RT 1-month after exposure, using a well-characterized murine orthotopic glioblastoma model. As fractionated regimens of radiotherapy are the standard of care for glioblastoma treatment, we incorporated dose fractionation to simultaneously validate the neuroprotective effects and optimized tumor treatments with FLASH-RT.

Results:

The capability of FLASH-RT to minimize the induction of radiation-induced brain toxicities has been attributed to the reduction of reactive oxygen species, casting some concern that this might translate to a possible loss of antitumor efficacy. Our study shows that FLASH and CONV-RT are isoefficient in delaying glioblastoma growth for all tested regimens. Furthermore, only FLASH-RT was found to significantly spare radiation-induced cognitive deficits in learning and memory in tumor-bearing animals after the delivery of large neurotoxic single dose or hypofractionated regimens.

Conclusions:

The present results show that FLASH-RT delivered with hypofractionated regimens is able to spare the normal brain from radiation-induced toxicities without compromising tumor cure. This exciting capability provides an initial framework for future clinical applications of FLASH-RT.

See related commentary by Huang and Mendonca, p. 662
Imagination and Self Disorders in Schizophrenia: A Review
Authors: Gozé Tudi , Fazakas Istvan
Published: October 2020

Anomalies of imagination are frequent and handicapping in schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) but neglected in psychopathology due to the lack of a conceptual framework to model disorders of imagination. Recently, the link between minimal self disorders and pathology of imagination has been emphasized. The aim of the present article is to discuss this initiative by stressing their paradigm drawing on the recent imaginary turn in phenomenological research. Although this field of research is currently very active in philosophy, there are very few translational approaches in psychopathology or cognitive sciences. In this paper, we examine how contemporary research concerning fantasy and imagination can lead to the elaboration of an epistemological and phenomenological framework for schizophrenia research. We first examine the psychopathological literature on anomalous fantasy and imagination in SSDs. Then we propose an exhaustive overview of the imaginary turn of philosophical phenomenology. Further, we examine the theoretical and practical implications of such a recasting of phenomenological research. We show how fantasy and imagination are involved in the embodiment process, and how identity and imagination are interlinked. Finally, we propose an overview of the possible implications for the understanding of psychotherapeutic processes and recovery strategies.
Navigated Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery: Evaluating the Combined Use of a Frame-Based Stereotactic System and a Navigation System
Authors: Krüger Marie T. , Várkuti Bálint , Achinger Jörg , Coenen Volker A. , Prokop Thomas , Delev Daniel , Blass Bianca-Ioana , Piroth Tobias , Reinacher Peter C.
Published: October 2020

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a complex surgical procedure that requires detailed anatomical knowledge. In many fields of neurosurgery navigation systems are used to display anatomical structures during an operation to aid performing these surgeries. In frame-based DBS, the advantage of visualization has not yet been evaluated during the procedure itself. In this study, we added live visualization to a frame-based DBS system, using a standard navigation system and investigated its accuracy and potential use in DBS surgery. As a first step, a phantom study was conducted to investigate the accuracy of the navigation system in conjunction with a frame-based approach. As a second step, 5 DBS surgeries were performed with this combined approach. Afterwards, 3 neurosurgeons and 2 neurologists with different levels of experience evaluated the potential use of the system with a questionnaire. Moreover, the additional personnel, costs and required set up time were noted and compared to 5 consecutive standard procedures. In the phantom study, the navigation system showed an inaccuracy of 2.1 mm (mean SD 0.69 mm). In the questionnaire, a mean of 9.4/10 points was awarded for the use of the combined approach as a teaching tool, a mean of 8.4/10 for its advantage in creating a 3-dimensional (3-D) map and a mean of 8/10 points for facilitating group discussions. Especially neurosurgeons and neurologists in training found it useful to better interpret clinical results and side effects (mean 9/10 points) and neurosurgeons appreciated its use to better interpret microelectrode recordings (mean 9/10 points). A mean of 6/10 points was awarded when asked if the benefits were worth the additional efforts. Initially 2 persons, then one additional person was required to set up the system with no relevant added time or costs. Using a navigation system for live visualization during frame-based DBS surgery can improve the understanding of the complex 3-D anatomy and many aspects of the procedure itself. For now, we would regard it as an excellent teaching tool rather than a necessity to perform DBS surgeries.
Implications of the Use of Algorithmic Diagnoses or Medicare Claims to Ascertain Dementia
Authors: Power Melinda C. , Gianattasio Kan Z. , Ciarleglio Adam
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Formal dementia ascertainment with research criteria is resource-intensive, prompting the growing use of alternative approaches. Our objective was to illustrate the potential bias and implications for study conclusions introduced through the use of alternate dementia ascertainment approaches. Methods: We compared dementia prevalence and risk factor associations obtained using criterion-standard dementia diagnoses to those obtained using algorithmic or Medicare-based dementia ascertainment in participants of the baseline visit of the Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study (ADAMS), a Health and Retirement Study (HRS) sub-study. Results: Estimates of dementia prevalence derived using algorithmic or Medicare-based ascertainment differ substantially from those obtained using criterion-standard ascertainment. Use of algorithmic or Medicare-based dementia ascertainment can, but does not always, lead to risk factor associations that substantially differ from those obtained using criterion-standard ascertainment. Discussion/Conclusions: Absolute estimates of dementia prevalence should rely on samples with formal dementia ascertainment. The use of multiple algorithms is recommended for risk factor studies when formal dementia ascertainment is not available.
Efficacy of GLP-1 Agonist Therapy in Autosomal Dominant WFS1-Related Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Scully Kevin J. , Wolfsdorf Joseph I.
Published: October 2020

Background: Wolfram syndrome is a rare neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by the presence of diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy, and sensorineural deafness. The majority of cases are due to autosomal recessive biallelic variants in the WFS1 gene; however, pathogenic autosomal dominant (AD) mutations have also been described. Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) agonists have been studied in both animal models and humans with classic Wolfram syndrome. Case: We present a 15-year-old female with a personal and family history of congenital strabismus, bilateral cataracts, low-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, and diabetes mellitus. Trio whole exome sequencing revealed a previously unknown maternally inherited heterozygous variant in exon 8 of the WFS1 gene c.2605_2616del12 p.Ser869_His872del, leading to the diagnosis of AD WFS1-related disorder. Treatment with a GLP-1 agonist resulted in marked improvement in glycemic control and discontinuation of insulin therapy. This patient’s response to a GLP-1 agonist provides suggestive indirect evidence for a role of WFS1 on β-cell endoplasmic reticulum stress and suggests that treatment with a GLP-1 agonist should be considered in patients with dominant forms of WS.
Butyrate Rescues Oxidative Stress-Induced Transport Deficits of Tryptophan: Potential Implication in Affective or Gut-Brain Axis Disorders
Authors: Rode Julia , Yang Lin , König Julia , Hutchinson Ashley Nicole , Wall Rebecca , Venizelos Nikolaos  , Brummer Robert-Jan , Rangel Ignacio , Vumma Ravi
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid metabolite produced by microbiota in the colon. With its antioxidant properties, butyrate has also been shown to alter the neurological functions in affective disorder models, suggesting it as a key mediator in gut-brain interactions. Objective: Here, we evaluated the negative effect of oxidative stress on the transport of the serotonin precursor tryptophan as present in affective disorders. Butyrate was hypothesized to be able to rescue these deficits due to its antioxidative capacities and its effect on transmembrane transport of tryptophan. Human skin-derived fibroblasts were used as cellular models to address these objectives. Methods: Human fibroblasts were treated with hydrogen peroxide to induce oxidative stress. Stressed as well as control cells were treated with different concentrations of butyrate. Tryptophan (3H) was used as a tracer to measure the transport of tryptophan across the cell membranes (n = 6). Furthermore, gene expression profiles of different amino acid transporters were analyzed (n = 2). Results: As hypothesized,oxidative stress significantly decreased the uptake of tryptophan in fibroblast cells, while butyrate counteracted this effect. Oxidative stress did not alter the gene expression profile of amino acid transporters. However, treatment of stressed and control cells with different concentrations of butyrate differentially regulated the gene expression of large amino acid transporters 1 and 2, which are the major transporters of tryptophan. Conclusions:Gut microbiota-derived butyrate may have therapeutic potential in affective disorders characterized by either aberrant serotonergic activity or neuroinflammation due to its role in rescuing the oxidative stress-induced perturbations of tryptophan transport.
A Novel ELP2 Compound Heterozygous Mutation in a Boy with Severe Intellectual Disability, Spastic Diplegia, Stereotypic Behavior and Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Turkyilmaz Ayberk , Sager Gunes
Published: October 2020

The elongator complex consists of 6 highly conserved subunit proteins and is indispensable for various cellular functions, such as transcription elongation, histone acetylation, and tRNA modification. The elongator complex contains 2 subunits, each of which consists of 3 different proteins (encoded by the ELP1–3 and ELP4–6 genes). According to the OMIM database, ELP2 gene variations have been reported to be associated with autosomal recessive mental retardation type 58. Here, we report a male patient with severe intellectual disability, spastic diplegia, and stereotypic behavior; in addition, we also provide a review of the current literature. Using whole-exome sequencing analysis, we detected a novel compound heterozygous variation in the ELP2 gene. We present this case report to clarify the clinical findings of a very rare neurodevelopmental phenotype and to contribute new information to the current literature on genotype-phenotype correlations.
Obesity Prevalence in the Long-Term Future in 18 European Countries and in the USA
Authors: Janssen Fanny , Bardoutsos Anastasios , Vidra Nikoletta
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Obesity constitutes a major public health problem in Europe, but how the obesity epidemic in European countries will evolve remains unknown. Most previous obesity projections considered the short-term future only, focused on single non-European countries, and projected ongoing increases foremost. We comparatively project obesity prevalence into the long-term future for 18 European countries and the USA. Data: We used national age-specific (20–84 years) and sex-specific obesity prevalence estimates (1975–2016) from the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC) 2017 study, which are based on available measured height and weight data, supplemented with estimates from a Bayesian hierarchical model. Methods: We projected age- and sex-specific obesity prevalence up to the year 2100 by integrating the notion of a wave-shaped obesity epidemic into conventional age-period projections. Results: In 1990–2016, the increasing trends in obesity prevalence were decelerating. Obesity is expected to reach maximum levels between 2030 and 2052 among men, and between 2026 and 2054 among women. The maximum levels will likely be reached first in The Netherlands, USA, and UK, and last in Switzerland; and are expected to be highest in the USA and UK, and lowest in The Netherlands for men and Denmark for women. In 2060, obesity prevalence is expected to be lowest among Dutch men and highest among Swiss men. The projected age-specific obesity prevalence levels have an inverse U-shape, peaking at around the age of 60–69 years. Discussion: Applying our novel approach to the NCD-RisC 2017 data, obesity prevalence is expected to reach maximum levels between 2026 and 2054, with the USA and UK reaching the highest maximum levels first, followed by other European countries.
The Protective and Reparative Role of Colony-Stimulating Factors in the Brain with Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Patel Aysha Mohamed Rafik , Apaijai Nattayaporn , Chattipakorn Nipon , Chattipakorn Siriporn C.
Published: October 2020

Stroke is a debilitating disease and has the ability to culminate in devastating clinical outcomes. Ischemic stroke followed by reperfusion entrains cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, which is a complex pathological process and is associated with serious clinical manifestations. Therefore, the development of a robust and effective poststroke therapy is crucial. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) and erythropoietin (EPO), originally discovered as hematopoietic growth factors, are versatile and have transcended beyond their traditional role of orchestrating the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of hematopoietic progenitors to one that fosters brain protection/neuroregeneration. The clinical indication regarding GCSF and EPO as an auspicious therapeutic strategy is conferred in a plethora of illnesses, including anemia and neutropenia. EPO and GCSF alleviate cerebral I/R injury through a multitude of mechanisms, involving antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neurogenic, and angiogenic effects. Despite bolstering evidence from preclinical studies, the multiple brain protective modalities of GCSF and EPO failed to translate in clinical trials and thereby raises several questions. The present review comprehensively compiles and discusses key findings from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical data pertaining to the administration of EPO, GCSF, and other drugs, which alter levels of colony-stimulating factor (CSF) in the brain following cerebral I/R injury, and elaborates on the contributing factors, which led to the lost in translation of CSFs from bench to bedside. Any controversial findings are discussed to enable a clear overview of the role of EPO and GCSF as robust and effective candidates for poststroke therapy.
Development and Internal Validation of a Model Predicting Premature Cardiovascular Disease Among Women With Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: A Population‐Based Study in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Ukah U. Vivian , Dayan Natalie , Auger Nathalie , He Siyi , Platt Robert W.
Published: October 2020

Background

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are associated with an increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD), but existing cardiovascular prediction models do not adequately capture risks in young women. We developed a model to predict the 10‐year risk of premature CVD and mortality among women who have HDP.

Methods and Results

Using a population‐based cohort of women with HDP who delivered between April 1989 and March 2017 in Quebec, Canada, we developed a 10‐year CVD risk model using Cox proportional hazards regression. Women aged 18 to 45 years were followed from their first HDP‐complicated delivery until March 2018. We assessed performance of the model based on discrimination, calibration, and risk stratification ability. Internal validity was assessed using the bootstrap method. The cohort included 95 537 women who contributed 1 401 084 person‐years follow‐up. In total, 4024 (4.2%) of women were hospitalized for CVD, of which 1585 events (1.6%) occurred within 10 years of follow‐up. The final model had modest discriminatory performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.65–0.67) and good calibration with slope of 0.95 and intercept of −0.19. There was moderate classification accuracy (likelihood ratio+: 5.90; 95% CI, 5.01–6.95) in the highest‐risk group upon risk stratification.

Conclusions

Overall, our model had modest performance in predicting the 10‐year risk of premature CVD for women with HDP. We recommend the addition of clinical variables, and external validation, before consideration for clinical use.
Large and Small Cerebral Vessel Involvement in Severe COVID-19
Authors: Keller Emanuela , Brandi Giovanna , Winklhofer Sebastian , Imbach Lukas L. , Kirschenbaum Daniel , Frontzek Karl , Steiger Peter , Dietler Sabeth , Haeberlin Marcellina , Willms Jan , Porta Francesca , Waeckerlin Adrian , Huber Michael , Abela Irene A. , Lutterotti Andreas , Stippich Christoph , Globas Christoph , Varga Zsuzsanna , Jelcic Ilijas
Published: October 2020

Background and Purpose:

Case series indicating cerebrovascular disorders in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been published. Comprehensive workups, including clinical characteristics, laboratory, electroencephalography, neuroimaging, and cerebrospinal fluid findings, are needed to understand the mechanisms.

Methods:

We evaluated 32 consecutive critically ill patients with COVID-19 treated at a tertiary care center from March 9 to April 3, 2020, for concomitant severe central nervous system involvement. Patients identified underwent computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and autopsy in case of death.

Results:

Of 32 critically ill patients with COVID-19, 8 (25%) had severe central nervous system involvement. Two presented with lacunar ischemic stroke in the early phase and 6 with prolonged impaired consciousness after termination of analgosedation. In all but one with delayed wake-up, neuroimaging or autopsy showed multiple cerebral microbleeds, in 3 with additional subarachnoid hemorrhage and in 2 with additional small ischemic lesions. In 3 patients, intracranial vessel wall sequence magnetic resonance imaging was performed for the first time to our knowledge. All showed contrast enhancement of vessel walls in large cerebral arteries, suggesting vascular wall pathologies with an inflammatory component. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions for SARS-CoV-2 in cerebrospinal fluid were all negative. No intrathecal SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG synthesis was detectable.

Conclusions:

Different mechanisms of cerebrovascular disorders might be involved in COVID-19. Acute ischemic stroke might occur early. In a later phase, microinfarctions and vessel wall contrast enhancement occur, indicating small and large cerebral vessels involvement. Central nervous system disorders associated with COVID-19 may lead to long-term disabilities. Mechanisms should be urgently investigated to develop neuroprotective strategies.
Self-reported Mind Wandering and Response Time Variability Differentiate Prestimulus Electroencephalogram Microstate Dynamics during a Sustained Attention Task
Authors: Zanesco Anthony P. , Denkova Ekaterina , Jha Amishi P.
Published: October 2020

Brain activity continuously and spontaneously fluctuates during tasks of sustained attention. This spontaneous activity reflects the intrinsic dynamics of neurocognitive networks, which have been suggested to differentiate moments of externally directed task focus from episodes of mind wandering. However, the contribution of specific electrophysiological brain states and their millisecond dynamics to the experience of mind wandering is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the association between electroencephalogram microstate temporal dynamics and self-reported mind wandering. Thirty-six participants completed a sustained attention to response task in which they were asked to respond to frequently occurring upright faces (nontargets) and withhold responses to rare inverted faces (targets). Intermittently, experience sampling probes assessed whether participants were focused on the task or whether they were mind wandering (i.e., off-task). Broadband electroencephalography was recorded and segmented into a time series of brain electric microstates based on data-driven clustering of topographic voltage patterns. The strength, prevalence, and rate of occurrence of specific microstates differentiated on- versus off-task moments in the prestimulus epochs of trials preceding probes. Similar associations were also evident between microstates and variability in response times. Together, these findings demonstrate that distinct microstates and their millisecond dynamics are sensitive to the experience of mind wandering.
Stimulus-induced Alpha Suppression Tracks the Difficulty of Attentional Selection, Not Visual Working Memory Storage
Authors: Wang Sisi , Megla Emma E. , Woodman Geoffrey F.
Published: October 2020

Human alpha-band activity (8–12 Hz) has been proposed to index a variety of mechanisms during visual processing. Here, we distinguished between an account in which alpha suppression indexes selective attention versus an account in which it indexes subsequent working memory storage. We manipulated two aspects of the visual stimuli that perceptual attention is believed to mitigate before working memory storage: the potential interference from distractors and the size of the focus of attention. We found that the magnitude of alpha-band suppression tracked both of these aspects of the visual arrays. Thus, alpha-band activity after stimulus onset is clearly related to how the visual system deploys perceptual attention and appears to be distinct from mechanisms that store target representations in working memory.
Hiker Narratives of Living among Bears on the Appalachian Trail
Authors: Marx Kate
Published: October 2020

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,000-mile-long wilderness trail shared by hikers and numerous nonhuman animal species, including the American Black Bear (Ursus americanus). In many areas of the trail, bears have become habituated to humans, occasionally leading to conflict between them. Some hikers choose to blog about their experiences on the trail, including their experience of living among bears. Their narratives center around space-oriented themes of proximity, dwelling, and segregation. The concept of dwelling is useful in understanding how hikers and bears come to share a lifeworld in which each species is usually given enough room to dwell in their own way. A hiker’s immersion in the spaces belonging to bears can lead them to a more nuanced appreciation of bears as autonomous beings. Dwelling also points towards a way of being with nonhuman animals that avoids doing harm to them or to their homes.
La Filologia mediolatina: una disciplina di frontiera
Authors: Chiesa Paolo
Published: October 2020

This article sketches a short history of Latin literature of the Middle Ages (as academic discipline) in Italy; defines its possible boundaries and relationships with other disciplines; lists the peculiarities of textual criticism when applied in the specific field of Latin medieval texts; highlights the methodological contribution brought by the scholars of this discipline, in order to build a ‘global philology’.
Reliability of the Crossed-Hands Deficit in Tactile Temporal Order Judgements
Authors: Unwalla Kaian , Kearney Hannah , Shore David I.
Published: October 2020

Crossing the hands over the midline impairs performance on a tactile temporal order judgement (TOJ) task, resulting in the crossed-hands deficit. This deficit results from a conflict between two reference frames — one internal (somatotopic) and the other external (spatial) — for coding stimulus location. The substantial individual differences observed in the crossed-hands deficit highlight the differential reliance on these reference frames. For example, women have been reported to place a greater emphasis on the external reference frame than men, resulting in a larger crossed-hands deficit for women. It has also been speculated that individuals with an eating disorder place a greater weight on the external reference frame. Further exploration of individual differences in reference frame weighing using a tactile TOJ task requires that the reliability of the task be established. In Experiment 1, we investigated the reliability of the tactile TOJ task across two sessions separated by one week and found high reliability in the magnitude of the crossed-hands deficit. In Experiment 2, we report the split-half reliability across multiple experiments (both published and unpublished). Overall, tactile TOJ reliability was high. Experiments with small to moderate crossed-hands deficits showed good reliability; those with larger deficits showed even higher reliability. Researchers should try to maximize the size of the effect when interested in individual differences in the use of the internal and external reference frames.
Description of Placoneis mologaensis, a new diatom from the Rybinsk reservoir on the Volga River, European Russia

Authors: VISHNYAKOV VASILY S.
Published: October 2020

A survey of surficial bottom sediments of the Rybinsk reservoir on the Volga, one of the largest and highly regulated rivers in Europe, revealed unknown species of the genus Placoneis. Detailed morphological observation using light and scanning electron microscopes allowed to describe this as P. mologaensis sp. nov. The species is characterized by linear-elliptical valves with slightly pronounced poles and conspicuous combination of other features, such as radial pattern of coarsely punctate uniseriate striae, bowtie-shaped central area without of isolated stigma, and raphe branches with heteromorphous terminal fissures. Ultrastructurally, P. mologaensis shows external areolar openings placed in depressions, which vary markedly in shape from round to slit-like. The new species is compared with similar and misidentified species and distributional data are provided based on confirmed records from the Pleistocene of the Boreal regions of Europe.
Uncertainty in Observational Estimates of the Aerosol Direct Radiative Effect and Forcing
Authors: Thorsen Tyler J. , Winker David M. , Ferrare Richard A.
Published: October 2020

A lower bound on the uncertainty in observational estimates of the aerosol direct radiative effect (DRE; the direct interaction with solar radiation by all aerosols) and the aerosol direct radiative forcing [DRF; the radiative effect of just anthropogenic aerosols (RFari)] is quantified by making the optimistic assumption that global aerosol observations can be made with the accuracy found in the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) sun photometer retrievals. The global-mean all-sky aerosol DRE uncertainty was found to be 1.1 W m−2 (one standard deviation). The global-mean all-sky aerosol DRF (RFari) uncertainty was determined to be 0.31 W m−2. The total uncertainty in both quantities is dominated by contributions from the aerosol single scattering albedo uncertainty. These uncertainty estimates were compared to a literature survey of mostly satellite-based aerosol DRE/DRF values. Comparisons to previous studies reveal that most have significantly underestimated the aerosol DRE uncertainty. Past estimates of the aerosol DRF uncertainty are smaller (on average) than our optimistic observational estimates, including the aerosol DRF uncertainty given in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). This disconnect between our observation-based uncertainty and that found in past aerosol DRF studies that rely, at least in part, on modeling is discussed. Also quantified is a potential reduction in the current observational uncertainty possible with a future generation of satellite observations that would leverage aerosol typing and more refined vertical information.
Adaptive Variational Mode Decomposition Method for Eliminating Instrument Noise in Turbulence Detection
Authors: He Yang , Sheng Zheng , Zhu Yanwei , He Mingyuan
Published: October 2020

Noise removal is a key issue in the retrieval of turbulence from meteorological radiosonde data using the method proposed by Thorpe. Only by reducing as much as possible the influence of noise in the potential temperature fluctuations can the retrieval results reflect the turbulence characteristics of the real atmosphere. In this paper, an adaptive variational mode decomposition (VMD) method is proposed that is used to remove noise fluctuations from the potential temperature profile, and particle swarm optimization and mutual information are used to optimize the preset VMD parameters. The Thorpe method is applied to the denoised potential temperature profile to identify and characterize turbulent regions. The results show that the adaptive VMD method is very effective for denoising the potential temperature profile in both simulation experiments and actual detection data. The real turbulence overturn can be selected from the inversions by optimal smoothing and statistical tests. This method is an improvement on the Wilson method and allows the Thorpe method to be applied to daytime sounding data, avoiding the confusion between noise and turbulence that results in the distortion of the turbulence scale.
Inferring the Presence of Freezing Drizzle Using Archived Data from the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS)
Authors: Landolt Scott D. , Gaydos Andrew , Porter Daniel , DiVito Stephanie , Jacobson Darcy , Schwartz Andrew J. , Thompson Gregory , Lave Joshua
Published: October 2020

In its current form, the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) provides automated precipitation type reports of rain, snow, and freezing rain. Unknown precipitation can also be reported when the system recognizes precipitation is occurring but cannot classify it. A new method has been developed that can reprocess the raw ASOS 1-min-observation (OMO) data to infer the presence of freezing drizzle. This freezing drizzle derivation algorithm (FDDA) was designed to identify past freezing drizzle events that could be used for aviation product development and evaluation (e.g., Doppler radar hydrometeor classification algorithms, and improved numerical modeling methods) and impact studies that utilize archived datasets [e.g., National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigations of transportation accidents in which freezing drizzle may have played a role]. Ten years of archived OMO data (2005–14) from all ASOS sites across the conterminous United States were reprocessed using the FDDA. Aviation routine weather reports (METARs) from human-augmented ASOS observations were used to evaluate and quantify the FDDA’s ability to infer freezing drizzle conditions. Advantages and drawbacks to the method are discussed. This method is not intended to be used as a real-time situational awareness tool for detecting freezing drizzle conditions at the ASOS but rather to determine periods for which freezing drizzle may have impacted transportation, with an emphasis on aviation, and to highlight the need for improved observations from the ASOS.
Logistics Cost Dynamics in International Business: A Causal Approach
Authors: Kar Ashutosh , Datta Pratyay Ranjan
Published: October 2020

The cost of logistics plays a vital role in the pricing of goods in international trade. Besides, the recent imposition of additional tariff by even upper-middle income countries such as the USA, China etc., has led to an increase in the total landed cost of goods. However, a seller has no option but to adapt to changing tariff requirements and can articulate only the logistics cost to a certain extent. This aspect requires an understanding of the logistics cost dynamics in international business. Since a higher volume of goods moves by marine transportation, this study focusses on the same. In this article, authors have attempted to establish a statistically significant relationship between prices and other factors like fuel, number of vessels, freight, and weight value ratio. The paper introduces a logistics-coefficient to indicate the extent of integration of logistics activities to keep the total-landed-cost (TLC) unchanged. Finally, the author proposes the system dynamics model to study the impact of changes in any one or some or all these factors on the price of the product. This model will enable the global firm to decide the entry and exit in the market.

JEL Codes: F23
An Investigation of Speech Features, Plant System Alarms, and Operator–System Interaction for the Classification of Operator Cognitive Workload During Dynamic Work
Authors: Braarud Per Ø. , Bodal Terje , Hulsund John E. , Louka Michael N. , Nihlwing Christer , Nystad Espen , Svengren Håkan , Wingstedt Emil
Published: October 2020

Objective

To investigate speech features, human–machine alarms, and operator–system interaction for the estimation of cognitive workload in full-scale realistic simulated scenarios.

Background

Theories and models of cognitive workload are critical for the design and evaluation of human–machine systems. Unfortunately, there are very few nonintrusive cognitive workload measures available for realistic dynamic human–machine interaction.

Method

The study was conducted in a full-scope control room research simulator of an advanced nuclear reactor. Six crews, each consisting of three operators, participated in 12 scenarios. The operators rated their workload every second minute. Machine learning algorithms were trained to estimate operators’ workload based on crew communication, operator–system interaction, and system alarms.

Results

Random Forest (RF) utilizing speech and system features achieved an accuracy of 67% on test data. Utilizing speech features only, the accuracy achieved was 63%. The most important speech features were pitch, amplitude, and articulation rate. A 61% accuracy was achieved when alarms and operator–system interaction features were used. The most important features were the number of alarms and amount of operator–system interaction. Accuracy for algorithms trained for each operator ranged from 39% to 98%, with an average of 72%. For a majority of analyses performed, RF and extreme gradient boosting (XGB) outperformed other algorithms.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that the features investigated and machine learning models developed provide a potential for the dynamic nonintrusive measurement of cognitive workload.

Application

The approach presented can be developed for nonintrusive workload measurement in real-world human–machine applications, simulator-based training, and research.
Detecting and Responding to Information Overload With an Adaptive User Interface
Authors: Kortschot Sean W. , Jamieson Greg A. , Prasad Amrit
Published: October 2020

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate an adaptive user interface that could detect states of operator information overload and calibrate the amount of information on the screen.

Background

Machine learning can detect changes in operating context and trigger adaptive user interfaces (AUIs) to accommodate those changes. Operator attentional state represents a promising aspect of operating context for triggering AUIs. Behavioral rather than physiological indices can be used to infer operator attentional state.

Method

In Experiment 1, a network analysis task sought to induce states of information overload relative to a baseline. Streams of interaction data were taken from these two states and used to train machine learning classifiers. We implemented these classifiers in Experiment 2 to drive an AUI that automatically calibrated the amount of information displayed to operators.

Results

Experiment 1 successfully induced information overload in participants, resulting in lower accuracy, slower completion time, and higher workload. A series of machine learning classifiers detected states of information overload significantly above chance level. Experiment 2 identified four clusters of users who responded significantly differently to the AUIs. The AUIs benefited performance, completion time, and workload in three clusters.

Conclusion

Behavioral indices can successfully detect states of information overload and be used to effectively drive an AUI for some user groups. The success of AUIs may be contingent on characteristics of the user group.

Application

This research applies to domains seeking real-time assessments of user attentional or psychological state.
Book review: S.V. Ranganath and D. Jeevan Kumar (Eds.), Excellence in Administration: Prospects and Perspectives
Authors: Datta Prabhat Kumar
Published: October 2020

S.V. Ranganath and D. Jeevan Kumar (Eds.), Excellence in Administration: Prospects and Perspectives. Bangalore: Indian Institute of Public Administration, Karnataka Regional Branch, 2019, 214 pp., ₹300.
Public Attitude Towards e-Governance Practices in Developing Societies: A Case Study of SUWIDHA Project in Punjab
Authors: Singh Harpreet , Kapila Renu
Published: October 2020

E-governance practices are going through a transitional phase in developing societies like India. However, several impediments restrict them from becoming an effective means of interaction between government and citizens. The present study is an attempt to comprehend the citizens’ attitude and their level of readiness to accept the e-governance practices in online service delivery in the state of Punjab in India. It is based on the field survey of various SUWIDHA Kendras (now called Sewa Kendras Type I) in Punjab, where a sample of 240 users was covered with the help of interview schedule and observations. One district from each of the three regions of Punjab was selected randomly: Tarn Taran of Majha, Sangrur of Malwa and Hoshiarpur of Doaba. The results of this study show that the usage of e-governance practices as a popular medium is seriously limited by the public attitude. The main reasons are deficient e-governance infrastructure and apathetic public due to lack of computer literacy/e-readiness. The study establishes that, in order to implement e-governance successfully, not only a developed infrastructure but also behavioural changes in citizenry are required in developing societies.