bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Developing shared qualitative models for complex systems
Authors: Moon Katie , Browne Nicola K 
Published: September 2020

AbstractUnderstanding complex systems is essential to ensure their conservation and effective management. Models commonly support understanding of complex ecological systems and, by extension, their conservation. Modeling, however, is largely a social process constrained by individuals’ mental models (i.e., a small‐scale internal model of how a part of the world works based on knowledge, experience, values, beliefs, and assumptions) and system complexity. To account for both system complexity and the diversity of knowledge of complex systems, we devised a novel way to develop a shared qualitative complex system model. We disaggregated a system (carbonate coral reefs) into smaller subsystem modules that each represented a functioning unit, about which an individual is likely to have more comprehensive knowledge. This modular approach allowed us to elicit an individual mental model of a defined subsystem for which the individuals had a higher level of confidence in their knowledge of the relationships between variables. The challenge then was to bring these subsystem models together to form a complete, shared model of the entire system, which we attempted through 4 phases: develop the system framework and subsystem modules; develop the individual mental model elicitation methods; elicit the mental models; and identify and isolate differences for exploration and identify similarities to cocreate a shared qualitative model. The shared qualitative model provides opportunities to develop a quantitative model to understand and predict complex system change.
Relative effects of recreational activities on a temperate terrestrial wildlife assemblage
Authors: Naidoo Robin , Burton A. Cole 
Published: September 2020

AbstractOutdoor recreation is one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world and provides many benefits to people. Assessing possible negative impacts of recreation is nevertheless important for sustainable management. Here, we used camera traps to assess relative effects of various recreational activities—as compared to each other and to environmental conditions—on a terrestrial wildlife assemblage in British Columbia, Canada. Across 13 species, only two negative associations between recreational activities and wildlife detections were observed at weekly scales: mountain biking on moose and grizzly bears. However, finer‐scale analysis showed that all species avoided humans on trails, with avoidance strongest for mountain biking and motorized vehicles. Our results imply that environmental factors generally shaped broad‐scale patterns of wildlife use, but highlight that recreational activities also have detectable impacts. These impacts can be monitored using the same camera‐trapping techniques that are commonly used to monitor wildlife assemblages.
Comparison of the quality of the microwave cell‐block method with the conventional cell‐block method in processing body fluid samples
Authors: Jayakumar Chippy , Sreerekha Jinkala , Gochhait Debasis , Perumal Prasanna Venkadesa , Kanungo Srikanta , Siddaraju Neelaiah , Gochhait Samanyoya , Ramatchandrin Lakshmi 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIntroductionConventional cell blocks (CCB) prepared from cytological specimens are very useful but the method is relatively time‐consuming. Suitable modifications in cell‐block techniques are beneficial for improving the turnaround time. We share our experience of a rapid microwave cell‐block (MCB) technique.Aim and objectivesTo study the quality of routine and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of cell‐block sections from serous body fluids prepared by the MCB technique compared with the CCB technique.MethodA total of 177 serous body fluid samples were processed by routine centrifugation technique, and the sediments were used for cell‐block preparations by both conventional and rapid microwave methods. Cell‐block sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain. Haematoxylin and eosin staining quality was analysed using three parameters (cellularity, morphology and staining intensity). IHC for epithelial membrane antigen and calretinin were also performed, and the quality of staining was evaluated on 62/177 samples. Results were analysed using appropriate statistical tests.ResultsThe time taken for processing cell blocks by the MCB method was 1 hour and 18 minutes compared to 13 hours and 45 minutes by CCB. The quality of sections by both methods showed good agreement for cellularity and intensity of staining, and moderate agreement for morphology. A 100% concordance was noted for distinguishing benign and malignant samples on morphology as well as with IHC stain results.ConclusionAlthough the techniques are comparable in terms of quality of routine and IHC staining, we recommend using the MCB technique due to its short turnaround time.
Association between asthma and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Wee Jee Hye , Park Min Woo , Min Chanyang , Byun Soo Hwan , Park Bumjung , Choi Hyo Geun 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundEpidemiological studies on the association between asthma and cardiovascular disease have reported conflicting results. This cross‐sectional study evaluated the association between asthma and ischaemic heart disease (IHD)/stroke in Korean adults.Materials and methodsData from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study‐Health Examinees were used. Among 173 209 participants, 3162 asthmatic and 159 408 control participants were selected. Histories of asthma, IHD and stroke were obtained. Participants were categorized according to their current status of asthma management: 'well‐controlled', 'being treated', and 'not being treated'. Crude and adjusted (age, gender, body mass index, income, smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia and nutritional intake) odds ratios (ORs) for IHD and stroke in asthmatic patients were analysed using a multiple logistic regression model.ResultsParticipants with asthma reported a significantly higher prevalence of IHD (6.0% vs 3.0%) and stroke (2.3% vs 1.4%) than those without asthma (P < .001). Asthmatic participants had a higher OR (1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.251‐1.71, P < .001) for IHD than those without asthma. The association between asthma and IHD was significant only in patients aged ≥53 years (men: adjusted OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.01‐1.70, P = .046; women: adjusted OR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.32‐2.03, P < .001) according to age and sex and in the 'not being treated' asthma group (adjusted OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.14‐1.91, P = .003) according to the asthma management status. Stroke was not significantly associated with asthma (adjusted OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.92‐1.48, P = .203) in the adjusted model and all subgroup analyses.ConclusionAsthma was associated with IHD, mainly in older patients and untreated asthma patients, but not with stroke.
Roles of peer specialists and use of mental health services among youth with serious mental illness
Authors: Ojeda Victoria D. , Jones Nev , Munson Michelle R. , Berliant Emily , Gilmer Todd P. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractAimTo examine whether roles of peer specialists affect service use among Black, Latinx and White youth ages 16‐24 with serious mental illness (SMI) in Los Angeles and San Diego Counties.MethodsAdministrative data from 2015 to 2018 was used to summarize service use among 6329 transition age youth age 16‐24 with SMI who received services from 76 outpatient public mental health programs with peer specialists on staff. Roles of peer specialists were assessed via a program survey. Generalized linear models were used to assess the relationship between peer specialist characteristics and service use outcomes (ie, outpatient and inpatient).ResultsHaving a transition age youth peer specialist on staff (vs older peer specialists) and having peer specialists that provide four or more services (vs fewer services) was associated with an increase in annual outpatient visits in both counties (P = <.001 each). In Los Angeles County, having three or more peer specialist trainings (vs fewer trainings) was associated with lower use of inpatient services (P < .001). In San Diego County, having a transition age youth peer specialist and peer specialists that provide four or more services was associated with lower use of inpatient services (P < .001 each).ConclusionsTypes of peer support and number of types of peer services were associated with mental health service utilization. Detailed examination of the roles of peer specialists is merited to identify the specific pathways that improve outcomes.
POEMS syndrome: A multisystem clonal disorder
Authors: Ali Tayyaba , Qazilbash Muzaffar H. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractPolyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal protein, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome is a rare condition defined by monoclonal plasma cell disorder, peripheral neuropathy, and other systemic symptoms. The pathophysiology of POEMS syndrome is unknown, but the overproduction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) appears to be an important contributory element. The diagnosis of POEMS syndrome requires the presence of both mandatory criteria (ie, polyneuropathy and a monoclonal plasma cell disorder), at least one major criterion (ie, osteosclerotic bone lesions, Castleman disease, or elevated serum or plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor), and at least one of the six minor criteria. POEMS syndrome lacks a standard treatment, but patients with limited sclerotic bone lesions are typically treated with radiation therapy. In contrast, those with widespread lesions receive chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Arc/Arg3.1 function in long‐term synaptic plasticity: Emerging mechanisms and unresolved issues
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Bramham Clive R. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractArc (activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein) is posited as a critical regulator of long‐term synaptic plasticity at excitatory synapses, including long‐term potentiation, long‐term depression, inverse synaptic tagging and homoeostatic scaling, with pivotal roles in memory and postnatal cortical development. However, the mechanisms underlying the bidirectional regulation of synaptic strength are poorly understood. Here we review evidence from different plasticity paradigms, highlight outstanding issues and discuss stimulus‐specific mechanisms that dictate Arc function. We propose a model in which Arc bidirectionally controls synaptic strength by coordinate regulation of AMPA‐type glutamate receptor (AMPAR) trafficking and actin cytoskeletal dynamics in dendritic spines. Key to this model, Arc is proposed to function as an activity‐dependent regulator of AMPAR lateral membrane diffusion and trapping at synapses.
Cognitive‐motor interference in the wild: Assessing the effects of movement complexity on task switching using mobile EEG
Authors: Reiser Julian E. , Wascher Edmund , Rinkenauer Gerhard , Arnau Stefan 
Published: September 2020

AbstractAdaptively changing between different tasks while in locomotion is a fundamental prerequisite of modern daily life. The cognitive processes underlying dual tasking have been investigated extensively using EEG. Due to technological restrictions, however, this was not possible for dual‐task scenarios including locomotion. With new technological opportunities, this became possible and cognitive‐motor interference can be studied, even in outside‐the‐lab environments. In the present study, participants carried out a cognitive‐motor interference task as they responded to cued, auditory task‐switch stimuli while performing locomotive tasks with increasing complexity (standing, walking, traversing an obstacle course). We observed increased subjective workload ratings as well as decreased behavioural performance for increased movement complexity and cognitive task difficulty. A higher movement load went along with a decrease of parietal P2, N2 and P3 amplitudes and frontal Theta power. A higher cognitive load, on the other hand, was reflected by decreased frontal CNV amplitudes. Additionally, a connectivity analysis using inter‐site phase coherence revealed that higher movement as well as cognitive task difficulty had an impairing effect on fronto‐parietal connectivity. In conclusion, subjective ratings, behavioural performance and electrophysiological results indicate that less cognitive resources were available to be deployed towards the execution of the cognitive task when in locomotion compared to standing still. Connectivity results also show a scarcity of attentional resources when switching a task during the highest movement complexity condition. Summarized, all findings indicate a central role of attentional control regarding cognitive‐motor dual tasking and an inherent limitation of cognitive resources.
Recurrence quantification analysis of dynamic brain networks
Authors: Lopes Marinho A. , Zhang Jiaxiang , Krzemiński Dominik , Hamandi Khalid , Chen Qi , Livi Lorenzo , Masuda Naoki 
Published: September 2020

AbstractEvidence suggests that brain network dynamics are a key determinant of brain function and dysfunction. Here we propose a new framework to assess the dynamics of brain networks based on recurrence analysis. Our framework uses recurrence plots and recurrence quantification analysis to characterize dynamic networks. For resting‐state magnetoencephalographic dynamic functional networks (dFNs), we have found that functional networks recur more quickly in people with epilepsy than in healthy controls. This suggests that recurrence of dFNs may be used as a biomarker of epilepsy. For stereo electroencephalography data, we have found that dFNs involved in epileptic seizures emerge before seizure onset, and recurrence analysis allows us to detect seizures. We further observe distinct dFNs before and after seizures, which may inform neurostimulation strategies to prevent seizures. Our framework can also be used for understanding dFNs in healthy brain function and in other neurological disorders besides epilepsy.
Incidence of motor neuron disease/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in South Africa: a 4‐year prospective study
Authors: Henning F. , Heckmann J. M. , Naidu K. , Vlok L. , Cross H. M. , Marin B. 
Published: September 2020

Background and purposeLittle is known about the epidemiological features of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in sub‐Saharan Africa, and data from the region are limited to clinical series or case reports. The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence rate and presentation of ALS in an ethnically diverse region of South Africa.MethodsWe performed a 4‐year prospective incidence study in the Western Cape Province of South Africa between 1 July 2014 and 30 June 2018, and used a two‐source capture‐recapture method for case ascertainment. Age‐ and sex‐adjusted incidence rates (ASAIRs) were calculated using the 2010 US population as the reference.ResultsA total of 203 incident cases were identified over the study period, resulting in a crude incidence rate (IR) of 1.09 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.94–1.24] per 100 000 person‐years in the at‐risk population (aged >15 years). Capture‐recapture analysis resulted in an estimated IR of 1.11 (95% CI 1.01–1.22) per 100 000 person‐years. The ASAIR was 1.67 (95% CI 1.09–2.26) overall; 1.99 (95% CI 1.60–2.39) for men and 1.37 (95% CI 1.06–1.68) for women. When analysed separately, there was a substantial difference in ASAIRs between the different population groups, with the highest in the European ancestry group (2.62; 95% CI 2.49–2.75), the lowest in the African ancestry group (0.56, 95% CI 0.0–1.23), and an ASAIR in between these two in the mixed ancestry group (1.09, 95% CI 0.80–1.37).ConclusionThe overall incidence of ALS in the Western Cape Province of South Africa appears to be lower than in North African and Western countries, but higher than in Asian countries. As suggested by previous epidemiological studies, ALS may be less frequent in people of African ancestry.
Changes in serum complements and their regulators in generalized myasthenia gravis
Authors: Ozawa Y. , Uzawa A. , Yasuda M. , Kojima Y. , Oda F. , Himuro K. , Kawaguchi N. , Kuwabara S. 
Published: September 2020

ObjectiveTo investigate changes in serum complements and their regulators in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis (MG).MethodsForty‐four patients with acetylcholine receptor antibody‐positive MG, as well as 20 patients with non‐inflammatory neurological disorders were enrolled. Serum complements (C3, C4 and soluble C5b‐9) and complement regulators (vitronectin, clusterin and properdin) were extensively analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and their associations with clinical profiles of MG were examined.ResultsSerum C3, C4 and clusterin levels were not significantly different between patients with MG and controls. The patients with MG had higher soluble C5b‐9 (P = 0.09) and vitronectin (P = 0.001) levels than the controls; moreover, vitronectin levels decreased after treatment (P = 0.09). Serum properdin (P = 0.03) levels were lower in the patients with MG than in the controls, and negatively correlated with the MG Activities of Daily Living score (rs = −0.26, P = 0.09) and with the presence of bulbar palsy (P = 0.04).ConclusionOur results show that activation of complements and an altered complement network could contribute to the inflammatory pathogenesis of MG.
Suppressing evolution in genetically engineered systems through repeated supplementation
Authors: Layman Nathan C. , Tuschhoff Beth M. , Basinski Andrew J. , Remien Christopher H. , Bull James J. , Nuismer Scott L. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Genetically engineered organisms are prone to evolve in response to the engineering. This evolution is often undesirable and can negatively affect the purpose of the engineering. Methods that maintain the stability of engineered genomes are therefore critical to the successful design and use of genetically engineered organisms. One potential method to limit unwanted evolution is by taking advantage of the ability of gene flow to counter local adaption, a process of supplementation. Here, we investigate the feasibility of supplementation as a mechanism to offset the evolutionary degradation of a transgene in three model systems: a bioreactor, a gene drive, and a transmissible vaccine. In each model, continual introduction from a stock is used to balance mutation and selection against the transgene. Each system has its unique features. The bioreactor system is especially tractable and has a simple answer: The level of supplementation required to maintain the transgene at a frequency is approximately , where s is the selective disadvantage of the transgene. Supplementation is also feasible in the transmissible vaccine case but is probably not practical to prevent the evolution of resistance against a gene drive. We note, however, that the continual replacement of even a small fraction of a large population can be challenging, limiting the usefulness of supplementation as a means of controlling unwanted evolution.
Adaptation strategies of horses with induced forelimb lameness walking on a treadmill
Authors: Serra Bragança Filipe M. , Hernlund Elin , Thomsen Maj H. , Waldern Nina M. , Rhodin Marie , Byström Anna , van Weeren P. René , Weishaupt Michael A. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundThere is a paucity of research describing the gait pattern of lame horses at the walk.ObjectivesTo describe the changes in motion pattern and vertical ground reaction forces (GRFz) in horses with induced forelimb lameness at the walk and compare those changes with the changes observed at the trot.Study designExperimental study.MethodsIn 10 clinically sound Warmblood horses, moderate forelimb lameness was induced using a sole pressure model followed by trot and walk on a treadmill. Kinematic data were collected using 3D optical motion capture (OMC), and GRFz by an instrumented treadmill. Mixed models were used to compare sound baseline versus forelimb lameness (significance was set at P < .05).ResultsLameness induction significantly reduced peak GRFz on the second force peak, and vertical impulse in the lame limb. Stride and stance duration in all limbs were reduced. Lameness significantly affected the vertical movement symmetry of the head and withers. Maximum limb retraction angle, fetlock extension and protraction speed were reduced in the lame limb. Body centre of mass (COM) translation was reduced in the side‐to‐side direction and increased in the vertical and fore‐aft directions. Several compensatory kinetic and kinematic changes were observed in the nonlame limbs. The observed changes in both kinetics and kinematics were generally smaller at walk with fewer variables being affected, compared to the trot.Main limitationsOnly one degree and type of orthopaedic pain (sole pressure) was studied.ConclusionsCompensatory strategies of forelimb lameness at the walk include alteration of several kinetic and kinematic parameters and have some specific patterns and inter‐individual differences that are not seen at the trot. However, much like at the trot, head movement and forelimb vertical force symmetry seem to be the most useful parameters to detect forelimb lameness at walk.
Multifaceted roles of duckweed in aquatic phytoremediation and bioproducts synthesis
Authors: Liu Yu , Xu Hua , Yu Changjiang , Zhou Gongke 
Published: September 2020

AbstractDuckweed (Lemnaceae) is a fast‐growing aquatic vascular plant. It has drawn an increasing attention worldwide due to its application in value‐added nutritional products and in sewage disposal. In particular, duckweed is a promising feedstock for bioenergy production. In this review, we summarized applications of duckweed from the following four aspects. Firstly, duckweed could utilize nitrogen, phosphorus, and inorganic nutrition in wastewater and reduces water eutrophication efficiently. During these processes, microorganisms play an important role in promoting duckweed growth and improving its tolerance to stresses. We also introduced our pilot‐scale test using duckweed for wastewater treatment and biomass production simultaneously. Secondly, its capability of fast accumulation of large amounts of starch makes duckweed a promising bioenergy feedstock, catering the currently increasing demand for bioethanol production. Pretreatment conditions prior to fermentation can be optimized to improve the conversion efficiency from starch to bioethanol. Furthermore, duckweed serves as an ideal source for food supply or animal feed because the composition of amino acids in duckweed is similar to that of whey protein, which is easily digested and assimilated by human and other animals. Finally, severing as a natural plant factory, duckweed has shown great potential in the production of pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. With the surge of omics data and the development of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats technology, remodeling of the metabolic pathway in duckweed for synthetic biology study will be attainable in the future.