bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing Human Motion Manifold With Sequential Networks
Authors: Jang Deok‐Kyeong , Lee Sung‐Hee
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a novel recurrent neural network‐based method to construct a latent motion manifold that can represent a wide range of human motions in a long sequence. We introduce several new components to increase the spatial and temporal coverage in motion space while retaining the details of motion capture data. These include new regularization terms for the motion manifold, combination of two complementary decoders for predicting joint rotations and joint velocities and the addition of the forward kinematics layer to consider both joint rotation and position errors. In addition, we propose a set of loss terms that improve the overall quality of the motion manifold from various aspects, such as the capability of reconstructing not only the motion but also the latent manifold vector, and the naturalness of the motion through adversarial loss. These components contribute to creating compact and versatile motion manifold that allows for creating new motions by performing random sampling and algebraic operations, such as interpolation and analogy, in the latent motion manifold.
Traffic wave model based on vehicle‐infrastructure cooperative and vehicle communication data
Authors: Yuan Huazhi , Zhang Hongjia , Liu Xuelian , Jiao Xinlong
Published: May 2020

Urban trunk road system undertakes the main traffic trip, and congestion occurs frequently in rush hours. In order to clearly describe the propagation process of traffic waves in signalized intersections, and then optimize phase difference. This article proposes a kinematic model for the traffic wave based on the physical mechanism of car‐following and the kinematic characteristics of the traffic wave propagation. The actual road traffic monitoring data was extracted from the vehicle‐infrastructure cooperative system and vehicle internal communication system. Then we obtained the values of the stop‐and‐start wave velocity. Compared with the measured data, the results showed that the calculation of the wave velocity of the traffic wave model had a relative error of up to 5% vs the measured data, confirming the validity of the model. Through the analysis of the model, we obtained the difference in the effects on traffic wave velocity of the vehicle speed and the space headway. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for coordinated control and management of urban trunk road traffic and phase difference optimization of signalized intersections. Meanwhile, the research results also provide a theoretical basis for alleviating traffic congestion during the rush hour.
Association of serum ferritin and lung function in tobacco‐naïve postmenopausal women: Analysis of population‐based nationally representative data
Authors: Kim Taeyun , Choi Hyunji , Kang Jihun
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Ferritin regulates iron homeostasis, and is involved in the inflammation in the lung, especially in smokers; however, its associations on pulmonary function in nonsmokers remain unclear.

Objectives

The present study aimed to evaluate the association between serum ferritin and lung function in a tobacco‐naïve postmenopausal women.

Methods

In this study, 25 534 individuals were enrolled, among who 5338 tobacco‐naïve individuals were identified; of those, 342 men and 2879 women (742 pre‐ and 2137 postmenopausal) with data of serum ferritin, lung function and covariates were included. To evaluate the association of ferritin and lung function, multivariable‐adjusted linear regression analyses was used including the factors of predicted value of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1%) and forced vital capacity (FVC%). Logistic regression analyses were used to measure the relationship between ferritin and restrictive and obstructive lung disease.

Results

In premenopausal women, FEV1%/FVC was weakly but positively associated with serum ferritin, and after adjusting for covariates, the association was without statistical significance. No significant association between ferritin and obstructive lung disease was observed. In postmenopausal women, predicted FVC% was negatively associated with serum ferritin, and ferritin was dose‐dependently related with risk for restrictive lung disease. The odds ratio for restrictive lung disease in postmenopausal women was 2.285 at T3 and 1.560 at T2 relative to that at T1.

Conclusions

High serum ferritin level was significantly associated with lower FVC% and increased risk of restrictive lung disease in tobacco‐naïve postmenopausal women. Further study is needed to determine the mechanism underlying the current findings.
What Factors Can Explain the Rising Spatial Disparity in Economic Activities in China?
Authors: Yang Lihong , Cheng Jinwen , Yu Linhui , Li Chenhua
Published: May 2020

This paper explores the impact of spatial externalities in shaping China's economic geography by establishing a theoretical framework that contains regional productivity, trade barriers and local amenities to capture spatial externalities between different regions over time. Combining provincial data on bilateral trade flows with observed information about economic geography during the period 1998–2013, we estimate the distribution and marginal contribution of each explanatory factor. Empirical results suggest that regional labor density and wage are positively related to exogenous productivity and amenities, and negatively related to trade barriers. Meanwhile, variation in the marginal contribution of exogenous productivity and amenities and trade barriers reflects the regional temporal–spatial features in China's recent marketization process. Therefore, the Chinese government should place more emphasis on absorbing advanced technologies and reducing inter‐regional market barriers to promote balanced regional development and improve the efficiency of China's spatial resource allocation.
Suspending, settling, sponsoring: the intimate chronomobilities of young Asian migrants in Australia
Authors: ROBERTSON SHANTHI
Published: May 2020

In this article, I develop the concept of ‘intimate chronomobilities’ to understand some of the intersections between the temporalities of intimate relationships and of migration in the lives of young and ‘middling’ transnational migrants from Asia to Australia. Drawing on in‐depth interview data, I reveal how romantic partnerships are highly significant to experiences of transnational mobility, and how such experiences take place in the context of a governance regime in Australia in which migration has become increasingly transient, transitionary and transitory, and in which sponsored partner and spouse visas can secure migration futures. The analysis explores how the lived and imagined timelines and timings of intimate partnerships play highly significant roles in defining and structuring migrants' mobilities, and reveals how intimate chronomobilities of ‘suspending, settling and sponsoring’ are understood by migrants through lived experiences of sequence, synchronicity and tempo.
A rare case of Actinomyces skin and soft tissue infection in an end‐stage kidney disease patient with a review of the literature
Authors: Hsueh Leon , Kacharam Sumanth , Shah Ankur D.
Published: May 2020

End‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients are a commonly overlooked immunocompromised population that places them at risk for rare infections. We describe the case of a 78‐year‐old man with a history of ESKD managed with thrice weekly in‐center hemodialysis who had a prolonged episode of left elbow pain and drainage and was eventually found to have a skin and soft tissue infection from Actinomyces radingae. We review the bacteriology of Actinomyces spp. and the experiences of other providers who have treated actinomycosis in individuals with ESKD. The anatomic sites and demographics of these individuals are heterogeneous, but they all generally require a long antibiotic course with a beta‐lactam and portend to a good prognosis. High index of suspicion is needed to identify rare and atypical infections in the ESKD population.
Use of infrared analysis to identify genetic resources from isolated producers in Brazil as a tool to improve cassava competitiveness in the starch market
Authors: Vilpoux Olivier F. , Sharbel Timothy F. , Posso‐Terranova Andrés , Hoogerheide Eulalia S. S. , Cereda Marney P.
Published: May 2020

Our objective was to verify the potential of identifying different starches in Brazilian landraces of cassava using near and medium infrared analyses. The survey was conducted on 132 landraces collected throughout the Cerrado, Pantanal and Amazon biomes, in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, including 10 commercial starches. The results are reflective of selection for different genetic variants in small isolated producers. Infrared analysis enables rapid identification of this material and is the first step in identifying starches with different properties. The results demonstrate the potential of MIR analyses for in situ evaluation, an additional option for identifying important varieties and value the development of efforts made by small producers, whose landraces have special and economically important properties.
Does a universal non‐contributory social pension make sense for rural China?
Authors: Shen Ce , Johnson Jessica , Chi Zhenhe , Williamson John B.
Published: May 2020

China’s pension reform during the past three decades has allowed a majority of China’s population to be covered by a pension scheme. Of particular note has been the New Rural Pension Scheme (NRPS), a voluntary programme introduced starting in 2009. One goal of our analysis is to assess that pension scheme, using a variety of sources of information including data drawn from recent (2013 and 2015) nationwide China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Surveys (CHARLS). Our analysis involves an exploration of differences between the generosity and structure of the NRPS and other pension schemes currently in place. We also explore the feasibility of reforming the current “quasi‐social pension” component of the NRPS by substituting a universal non‐contributory social pension pillar. In connection with our assessment of the NRPS, we note the unusually low benefit levels for rural China.
The performance of the income protection system for older adults in Ecuador and future challenges
Authors: Apella Ignacio
Published: May 2020

The objective of this article is to analyse the performance of Ecuador’s pension system and the challenges it will face in the future. Over the last 13 years, the pension system has made significant advances in terms of coverage and adequacy. However, demographic ageing is straining the financial sustainability of the contributory scheme. In this context, a number of public policy areas are identified, in terms of parameters and structures, which, together with the expansion of non‐contributory coverage, could provide a more equitable and sustainable scheme.
Agronomic performance and water‐use efficiency of F3 soybean populations grown under contrasting base saturation
Authors: Patinni Isabela Ramsdorf Gomes , de Andrade Cristiane Alves , Campos Cid Naudi Silva , Teodoro Larissa Pereira Ribeiro , Andrade Sinomar Moreira , Roque Cassiano Garcia , da Silva Junior Carlos Antônio , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo
Published: May 2020

Most of the Brazilian soils, especially in Cerrado biome, have high acidity and toxic aluminium, making the application of limestone an indispensable technique to obtain high yield in soybean crop. The hypothesis of this study was that contrasting base saturation provides changes in water‐use efficiency (WUE) and agronomic traits of soybean populations. Thus, we evaluated the WUE and agronomic performance of F3 soybean populations under different base saturation levels. Each experiment was conducted in a randomized complete blocks design with three replicates and 10 F3 populations (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7, P8, P9 and P10) for two crop seasons. Segregating populations were obtained by bulk method. In the first experiment, F3 populations were evaluated without correction of base saturation (V = 30%), while in the second experiment, limestone was applied three months before sowing to increase base saturation to 60%. The traits evaluated were as follows: calcium, magnesium and potassium contents, water‐use efficiency (WUE), plant height, first pod height, main stem diameter and grain yield. Our findings indicate that WUE and agronomic performance of F3 soybean populations depends on the saturation condition. We identified the P4 and P9 populations as the most promising for use in breeding programmes aiming at higher tolerance to abiotic stress caused by low base saturation in soil.
Presidential Address: Social Transmission Bias in Economics and Finance
Authors: HIRSHLEIFER DAVID
Published: May 2020

I discuss a new intellectual paradigm, social economics and finance—the study of the social processes that shape economic thinking and behavior. This emerging field recognizes that people observe and talk to each other. A key, underexploited building block of social economics and finance is social transmission bias: systematic directional shift in signals or ideas induced by social transactions. I use five “fables” (models) to illustrate the novelty and scope of the transmission bias approach, and offer several emergent themes. For example, social transmission bias compounds recursively, which can help explain booms, bubbles, return anomalies, and swings in economic sentiment.
Nonlinear friction dynamics in the cognitive process of food textures: Thickness of polysaccharide solution
Authors: Okawara Hina , Shinomiya Koki , Fujita Minoru , Koda Tomonori , Nishioka Akihiro , Nonomura Yoshimune
Published: May 2020

“Thickness” is one of the descriptors of texture in liquid and semisolid foods. In this study, friction in thickener aqueous solutions was evaluated, using a biomimetic friction evaluation system, to show the correlation between friction data and sensory thickness and the recognition mechanism of this sensation during the process of eating. This system can measure friction forces under sinusoidal movement on fractal agar gel, which mimics the morphology and physical properties of the tongue. We found that an increase in the viscosity of the thickener aqueous solution was responsible for both the sensory score of thickness and the asymmetric profile of the friction coefficient in a reciprocating motion. In the case of low viscosity liquids such as water, many of the subjects did not feel thickness, and the friction profile “stable pattern I,” that is, a static friction coefficient larger than kinetic friction and a similar profile in the outward and inward processes were observed. However, in the case of solutions containing 3 or 5 wt% of food thickener, the friction profile “unstable pattern I,” that is, different friction behaviors in the outward and inward processes, was observed, and many of the subjects experienced strong thickness. In addition, the static friction coefficient at the first cycle was small, and the changes of friction coefficient by the reciprocating motion being repeated was large. These friction phenomena can occur in the mouth and are expected to induce sensory thickness.
Semitractability of optimal stopping problems via a weighted stochastic mesh algorithm
Authors: Belomestny Denis , Kaledin Maxim , Schoenmakers John
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we propose a Weighted Stochastic Mesh (WSM) algorithm for approximating the value of discrete‐ and continuous‐time optimal stopping problems. In this context, we consider tractability of such problems via a useful notion of semitractability and the introduction of a tractability index for a particular numerical solution algorithm. It is shown that in the discrete‐time case the WSM algorithm leads to semitractability of the corresponding optimal stopping problem in the sense that its complexity is bounded in order by with being the dimension of the underlying Markov chain. Furthermore, we study the WSM approach in the context of continuous‐time optimal stopping problems and derive the corresponding complexity bounds. Although we cannot prove semitractability in this case, our bounds turn out to be the tightest ones among the complexity bounds known in the literature. We illustrate our theoretical findings by a numerical example.
Effects of photobiomodulation with low‐level laser therapy in burning mouth syndrome: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: de Pedro Miguel , López‐Pintor Rosa María , Casañas Elisabeth , Hernández Gonzalo
Published: May 2020

Background

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has proven to be effective in different painful conditions.

Objectives

To assess the effect of photobiomodulation for pain management in burning mouth syndrome (BMS) patients, besides analysing the impact on different aspects of quality of life.

Methods

A randomized, single‐blind, clinical trial was performed among 20 patients with BMS. Photobiomodulation was applied in the study group (n = 10) with a dose of 12 J/cm2 during 10 sessions, comparing with a placebo group (n = 10) with the laser turned off. Pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) before starting each treatment session, and at the 1‐month and 4‐month follow‐up appointments. Some validated questionnaires for general health were also complete: SF‐36, OHIP‐14, Epworth, SCL 90‐R and McGill.

Results

All patients (n = 10) in the study group improved their pain ending treatment and remaining among 90% (n = 9) in the 4‐month follow‐up. Significant improvement was found in the study group in some sections of McGill questionnaire, Epworth scale, and SCL 90‐R at the end of the treatment and in the 1‐month and 4‐month follow‐ups.

Conclusions

Photobiomodulation seems to be effective in reducing pain in patients with BMS, as well as, having a positive impact on the psychological state of these patients.
Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias during the intrauterine, neonatal, and infant period: A 10‐year population‐based study
Authors: Bjeloševič Marko , Illíková Viera , Tomko Jaroslav , Olejník Peter , Chalupka Michal , Hatala Robert
Published: May 2020

Background

We aimed to evaluate the incidence, type, and management of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (SVT) during the first year of life in a retrospective, population‐based, single‐center study during a 10‐year period.

Methods

The analyzed patient cohort is based on data from the only specialized center managing all cases of neonatal and infant SVTs between 2009 and 2018 in the Slovak Republic (5.5 million population). A total of 116 consecutive patients <366 days old were included in the study.

Results

Calculated SVT incidence ratio was 1:4500 in the first year of life. AV reentry tachycardia was the leading arrhythmia (49%). SVT in this specific population was frequently a transient problem with spontaneous resolution in 87% of patients during a median 3‐year follow up. Congenital heart disease was common (16%). Intrauterine treatment by drugs administered to mother was safe and effective in preventing unnecessary cesarean deliveries. In arrhythmia termination, amiodarone and propafenone were equally safe and effective, with possible more favorable pharmacodynamics of the former. For prophylactic treatment, sotalol and propafenone were equally safe and effective and became the preferred basis of long‐term drug therapy in our center. However, this therapy requires intensive monitoring during its initiation.

Conclusion

The prognosis of SVT in the first year of life is good: with optimized pharmacological treatment, the need for early catheter ablation and mortality rate are low (<1%) and there is a high rate of spontaneous arrhythmia resolution. Heart failure is a possible predictor of arrhythmia persistence with need for ablation in later life.
Sheathing the blade: Significant contribution of sheaths to daytime and nighttime gas exchange in a grass crop
Authors: Sadok Walid , Lopez Jose R. , Zhang Yangyang , Tamang Bishal G. , Muehlbauer Gary J.
Published: May 2020

Despite representing a sizeable fraction of the canopy, very little is known about leaf sheath gas exchange in grasses. Specifically, estimates of sheath stomatal conductance, transpiration and photosynthesis along with their responses to light, CO2 and vapour pressure deficit (VPD) are unknown. Furthermore, the anatomical basis of these responses is poorly documented. Here, using barley as a model system, and combining leaf‐level gas exchange, whole‐plant gravimetric measurements, transpiration inhibitors, anatomical observations, and biophysical modelling, we found that sheath and blade stomatal conductance and transpiration were similar, especially at low light, in addition to being genotypically variable. Thanks to high abaxial stomata densities and surface areas nearly half those of the blades, sheaths accounted for up to 17% of the daily whole‐plant water use, which ‐surprisingly‐ increased to 45% during the nighttime. Sheath photosynthesis was on average 17–25% that of the blade and was associated with lower water use efficiency. Finally, sheaths responded differently to the environment, exhibiting a lack of response to CO2 but a strong sensitivity to VPD. Overall, these results suggest a key involvement of sheaths in feedback loops between canopy architecture and gas exchange with potentially significant implications on adaptation to current and future climates in grasses.
B‐cell profile, B‐cell activating factor concentration and IgG levels in human cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis
Authors: Parodi Cecilia , Barrio Alejandra , García Bustos María F. , González Prieto Ana G. , Pimentel Julia , Badano Noel , Albareda María C. , Castro Eiro Melisa E. , Laucella Susana A. , de Elizalde de Bracco María M.
Published: May 2020

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate characteristics of B cells in human tegumentary leismaniasis (TL) analysing cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), most prevalent form and mucosal leishmaniasis (ML), aggressive form characterized by the destruction of the oral‐nasal‐pharyngeal cavities.

Methods and results

By flow cytometry analysis, we found decreased percentages of non–class‐switched memory B cells in TL with the degree of the loss related to clinical severity. Using commercial ELISA, we reported high levels of B‐cell activating factor (BAFF) and IgG preferentially in aggressive CL and markedly in ML together with decreased BAFF receptors in the latter. We also found lower levels of BAFF after clinical recovery suggesting a relation between BAFF and disease activity.

Mucosal leishmaniasis history of therapeutic failure presented high levels of BAFF accompanied by detectable concentrations of IFN‐γ and IL‐6 (assayed by commercial ELISA and cytometric bead arrays respectively), cytokines involved in exaggerated inflammatory responses and tissue damage in TL.

Conclusion

We demonstrate B‐cell disturbances in TL with the degree of the alterations related to clinical severity. We suggest a relation between excess of BAFF and disease activity and point towards a possible implication of BAFF in the inflammatory phenomenon of ML.
The problem of order: Understanding how culture predicts social action
Authors: Rogers Kimberly B.
Published: May 2020

How is social order possible? Scholars in a variety of sociological subfields have sought to address this question, known as the problem of order, building theories and evidence that have tended to center either structural forces or human agency. I explain how this dichotomy has shaped the direction and extent of our scholarly progress, focusing on debates and developments in sociological social psychology and cultural sociology, and consider how theoretical and empirical developments in these fields enable us to revisit the problem of order in pursuit of new questions and answers. The great promise of this work is in its ability to identify the micro–macro linkages that enable personal agency and social change, while also explaining why the social order is so durable and how we arrive at and enact a shared definition of the situation as often as we do given individual differences and self‐complexity.
Structuring Memory Through Inference‐Based Event Segmentation
Authors: Shin Yeon Soon , DuBrow Sarah
Published: May 2020

Although the stream of information we encounter is continuous, our experiences tend to be discretized into meaningful clusters, altering how we represent our past. Event segmentation theory proposes that clustering ongoing experience in this way is adaptive in that it promotes efficient online processing as well as later reconstruction of relevant information. A growing literature supports this theory by demonstrating its important behavioral consequences. Yet the exact mechanisms of segmentation remain elusive. Here, we provide a brief overview of how event segmentation influences ongoing processing, subsequent memory retrieval, and decision making as well as some proposed underlying mechanisms. We then explore how beliefs, or inferences, about what generates our experience may be the foundation of event cognition. In this inference‐based framework, experiences are grouped together according to what is inferred to have generated them. Segmentation then occurs when the inference changes, creating an event boundary. This offers an alternative to dominant theories of event segmentation, allowing boundaries to occur independent of perceptual change and even when transitions are predictable. We describe how this framework can reconcile seemingly contradictory empirical findings (e.g., memory can be biased toward both extreme episodes and the average of episodes). Finally, we discuss open questions regarding how time is incorporated into the inference process.
Prospective observational study of dogs with splenic mass rupture suggests potentially lower risk of malignancy and more favourable perioperative outcomes
Authors: Stewart Samuel D. , Ehrhart E. J. , Davies Rebecca , Khanna Chand
Published: May 2020

Haemoperitoneum secondary to ruptured splenic tumours can be either benign or malignant in origin. The majority of previous studies of canine haemoperitoneum have been retrospective, which are associated with well‐recognized biases, such as the potential to underappreciate the diversity of outcomes in a complex presentation such as haemoperitoneum. This study seeks to prospectively define perioperative morbidity and mortality of haemoperitoneum in dogs secondary to ruptured splenic masses. Forty dogs with haemoperitoneum secondary to a ruptured splenic mass met the inclusion criteria. As expected, the cohort predominately consisted of older large breed dogs. All dogs underwent preoperative staging and had a splenectomy performed. Histopathologic analysis was performed on the splenic mass, as well as any possible metastatic lesions that were noted intra‐operatively. Perioperative care outside of splenectomy was delivered in specialty practices using current conventional approaches to care (eg, transfusions and anti‐arrhythmic medications). Fifteen dogs (37.5%) had benign splenic tumours and were cured with surgery alone, whereas 62.5% had malignant disease (most often haemangiosarcoma [HSA]). Surgical outcomes were highly favourable in the vast majority of dogs. Indeed, 38 dogs (95%) survived and were discharged after a median hospitalization of 39.5 hours. Independent predictors of longer hospitalization times included receiving a transfusion and the development of an arrhythmia. Although small, this cohort defines distinctive and optimistic perspectives for dogs with haemoperitoneum from splenic tumour rupture. These favourable outcomes from this prospective study are sufficient to ask if larger prospective studies should be conducted to better inform owners during this challenging cancer emergency presentation.
Prevalence of red‐blood‐cell and non‐red‐blood‐cell‐targeted autoantibodies in alloimmunized postpartum women
Authors: Schonewille Henk , van de Watering Leo M. G. , Oepkes Dick , Lopriore Enrico , Cobbaert Christa M. , Brand Anneke
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives

Alloantibodies against red‐blood‐cell (RBC) antigens often coincide with alloantibodies against leucocytes and platelets and sometimes with autoantibodies towards various antigens. Chimerism may be one of the factors responsible for the combination of allo‐ and autoantibodies. Women with alloantibodies against RBC antigens causing haemolytic disease of the fetus and neonate may need to receive intrauterine transfusions. These transfusions increase not only maternal antibody formation but also fetomaternal bleeding and may enhance fetal chimerism. We determined the prevalence of and risk factors for autoantibodies against some common clinical target antigens, in alloimmunized women after IUT.

Materials and Methods

We tested for autoantibodies against RBC, anti‐thyroid peroxidase, anti‐extractable nuclear antigens, anti‐cyclic citrullinated proteins and anti‐tissue transglutaminase. Women with and without autoantibodies were compared for age; number of RBC alloantibodies, pregnancies and IUTs, and other factors that may play a role in immunization.

Results

Non‐RBC‐targeted autoantibodies were present in 40 of 258 tested women (15·5%, with 90% anti‐TPO specificity), comparable to the prevalence reported in healthy Dutch women of these ages. Surprisingly, compared with women who had a single RBC alloantibody, a significantly higher proportion of women with multiple RBC alloantibodies had autoantibodies (5·3% and 18·4%, respectively; odds ratio 4·06, 95% CI: 1·20–13·7). Other characteristics of women with and without autoantibodies were not different.

Conclusion

Multiple RBC alloantibodies after extensive allogeneic exposure during pregnancy and presumed increased fetomaternal chimerism are not associated with (selected) autoantibodies. Lack of allo‐RBC multi‐responsiveness seems associated with decreased auto(‐TPO) antibody formation.
Numerical evaluation of polyethylene glycol ligand conjugation to gold nanoparticle surface using ToF-SIMS and statistical analysis
Authors: Shon Hyun Kyong , Son Jin Gyeong , Joh Sunho , Moon Jeong Hee , Lee Tae Geol
Published: May 2020

Nanoparticles (NPs) are substances between 1 and 100 nm in size. They have been the subject of numerous studies because of their potential applications in a wide range of fields such as cosmetics, electronics, medicine, and food. For biological applications of nanoparticles, they are usually coated with a substance capable of preventing agglomeration of the nanoparticles and nonspecific binding and exhibiting water-solubility characteristics with specific immobilized (bio)molecules. In order to evaluate the chemical properties of the surface-modified nanoparticles for bioapplications, including drug delivery, a simple and reliable method for the analysis of the presence of the surface chemicals and the ligand states of the nanoparticles is necessary. In this study, the authors numerically evaluated the extent of polyethylene glycol (PEG) ligand conjugation on AuNPs by concurrently adopting a microliquid inkjet printing system for sampling of the PEGylated AuNPs solution and ToF-SIMS imaging together with statistical analysis. The statistical correlation values calculated from the signals of PEG and Au measured by ToF-SIMS imaging on the sample spots made by a microliquid inkjet printing system showed better reproducibility and improved correlation values compared to the pipet spotting. Their improved method will be useful to evaluate ligand-conjugated nanoparticles for quality control of each conjugation process.
Comprehensive characterization of copper oxide atomic layer deposition using water or ozone with enhanced bis-(dimethylamino-2-propoxide) copper delivery
Authors: Avila Jason R. , Eddy Charles R. , Wheeler Virginia D.
Published: May 2020

Cu2O and CuO are promising p-type semiconductor materials, which show potential for a variety of applications from photovoltaics to high-Tc superconductors. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) presents an advantageous technique for the growth of copper oxide due to the ability to grow on a variety of substrate materials and geometries with atomic precision in thickness and high uniformity. The work presented here is a comprehensive study on the effect of boost and precursor delivery on the growth of copper oxide films using the same precursor and under the same reactor environment. This is critical to understanding the growth mechanism and properties of ALD grown copper oxide films using the same starting precursor while varying the coreactants. In this study, the deposition of copper oxide is performed using the precursor bis-(dimethylamino-2-propoxide) Cu(II) (Cudmap) and either water or ozone as a coreactant. Keeping the copper precursor pulse constant, CuO films were produced with ozone, while Cu2O films were obtained using water. Through conventional precursor delivery, a saturated growth rate of 0.19 and 0.045 Å/cycle is established using ozone and water as coreagents, respectively. In order to enable more efficient precursor delivery, a vapor boost modification was implemented, which doubled the film growth rate to 0.38 Å/cycle when using ozone, higher than previously reported. While there was no increased growth rate using the vapor boost with water, the growth rate could be doubled to 0.09 Å/cycle by tripling the water dosage. In both cases, the as-deposited films were smoother when implementing a vapor boost and polycrystalline as deposited, which has not been previously observed for Cu2O films grown with Cudmap. From the results here, growth of CuO using ozone is most improved by using a Cudmap vapor boost delivery, indicating Cudmap limited growth, while Cu2O growth is limited by the water dosage.
The Impact of a Dairy Milk Recovery Beverage on Bacterially Stimulated Neutrophil Function and Gastrointestinal Tolerance in Response to Hypohydration Inducing Exercise Stress
Authors: Costa Ricardo J.S. , Camões-Costa Vera , Snipe Rhiannon M.J. , Dixon David , Russo Isabella , Huschtscha Zoya
Published: May 2020

The study aimed to determine the impact of a dairy milk recovery beverage immediately after endurance exercise on leukocyte trafficking, neutrophil function, and gastrointestinal tolerance markers during recovery. Male runners (N = 11) completed two feeding trials in randomized order, after 2 hr of running at 70% , fluid restricted, in temperate conditions (25 °C, 43% relative humidity). Immediately postexercise, the participants received a chocolate-flavored dairy milk beverage equating to 1.2 g/kg body mass carbohydrate and 0.4 g/kg body mass protein in one trial, and water volume equivalent in another trial. Venous blood and breath samples were collected preexercise, postexercise, and during recovery to determine the leukocyte counts, plasma intestinal fatty acid binding protein, and cortisol concentrations, as well as breath H2. In addition, 1,000 µl of whole blood was incubated with 1 μg/ml Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide for 1 hr at 37 °C to determine the stimulated plasma elastase concentration. Gastrointestinal symptoms and feeding tolerance markers were measured preexercise, every 15 min during exercise, and hourly postexercise for 3 hr. The postexercise leukocyte (mean [95% confidence interval]: 12.7 [11.6, 14.0] × 109/L [main effect of time, MEOT]; p < .001) and neutrophil (10.2 [9.1, 11.5] × 109/L; p < .001) counts, as well as the plasma intestinal fatty acid binding protein (470 pg/ml; +120%; p = .012) and cortisol (236 nMol/L; +71%; p = .006) concentrations, were similar throughout recovery for both trials. No significant difference in breath H2 and gastrointestinal symptoms was observed between trials. The total (Trial × Time, p = .025) and per cell (Trial × Time, p = .001) bacterially stimulated neutrophil elastase release was greater for the chocolate-flavored dairy milk recovery beverage (+360% and +28%, respectively) in recovery, compared with the water trial (+85% and −38%, respectively). Chocolate-flavored dairy milk recovery beverage consumption immediately after exercise prevents the decrease in neutrophil function during the recovery period, and it does not account for substantial malabsorption or gastrointestinal symptoms over a water volume equivalent.
New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract Enhances Muscle Oxygenation During Forearm Exercise in Intermediate-Level Rock Climbers
Authors: Fryer Simon , Paterson Craig , Perkins Ian C. , Gloster Chris , Willems Mark E.T. , Potter Julia A.
Published: May 2020

The delivery to and utilization of oxygenated hemoglobin to the forearm muscles are key determinants of rock-climbing performance. Anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) has been suggested to improve blood flow and may enhance forearm endurance performance. As such, a double-blind, randomized crossover design study with 12 participants performed submaximal intermittent contractions (at 40% maximal voluntary contraction) to failure after a 7-day intake of 600 mg/day NZBC extract or placebo. Minimum tissue saturation index (TSI%) was assessed during the contractions. During recovery, time to half recovery of TSI% and brachial artery blood flow were assessed. There was no difference in time to exhaustion between NZBC and placebo. Minimum TSI% was lower with NZBC extract (43 ± 8 vs. 50 ± 11 TSI%; p = .007; Cohen’s d = 1.01). During recovery, there was no effect on brachial artery blood flow. However, time to half recovery was faster with NZBC (26 ± 17 vs. 42 ± 26 s; p = .001; Cohen’s d = 1.3) following exhaustive contractions. Seven days of NZBC extract appears to improve muscle oxygenation during and following contractions with no change in either arterial blood flow or forearm endurance performance.
Case Studies From Elite Youth Soccer: Reflections on Talent Development Practices
Authors: Wixey Daniel , Ryom Knud , Kingston Kieran
Published: May 2020

With early specialisation being commonplace within elite youth soccer, knowledge of the psychosocial implications associated with talent development practices would be of considerable use for the coaching practitioner. This paper uses case studies as a platform to discuss potential psychosocial implications of early specialisation, and further, it also offers practical suggestions for the elite youth soccer coach. Three case studies were chosen; each is an account of observations that took place within a British soccer academy. Themes of the case studies included adult-led structures in early specialisation, awareness of need thwarting coach behaviours, and the retention or release of players. The case studies were deliberately chosen to prompt discussion, reflection, and action. Following the presentation of each case study, a theoretically driven discussion is formulated. Practical suggestions are then provided to assist in the management of talent development practices within elite youth soccer and to further enrich the experiences of players. Concluding thoughts and areas for future research are briefly discussed.
Performance on an Associative Memory Test Decreases 8 hr After Cardiovascular Exercise
Authors: Pahwa Arth R.R. , Miller Dylan J. , Caplan Jeremy B. , Collins David F.
Published: May 2020

This study was designed to assess the effects of acute exercise on performance of a paired associate learning (PAL) test, an operationalization of hippocampal-dependent associative memory. Participants performed a PAL test and then ran on a treadmill (exercise group, n = 52) or solved Sudoku puzzles (control group, n = 54). Participants returned 2, 5, or 8 hr later to perform a second, different, PAL test. PAL scores for the control group did not change over time. Similarly, scores on tests taken 2 and 5 hr after exercise were not different from baseline or control data. Scores on tests taken 8 hr after exercise, however, fell significantly below baseline (by 8.6%) and control (by 9.8%) scores. These data demonstrate that acute exercise can negatively affect the encoding and retrieval of new information even hours after the exercise bout, which should be a consideration when designing exercise programs to enhance, and not hinder, learning.
Associations of Maternal Prepregnancy Body Mass Index and Gestational Weight Gain With Physical Fitness in Childhood
Authors: Tambalis Konstantinos D. , Mourtakos Stamatis , Sidossis Labros S.
Published: May 2020

Purpose: To investigate the potential associations of maternal prepregnancy body mass index (mppBMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) with physical fitness in children. Methods: A random sample of 5125 children and their mothers was evaluated. The mothers provided data contained in their medical booklets and pregnancy ultrasound records. The data from 5 physical fitness tests (eg, 20-m shuttle run, 30-m sprint, vertical jump, standing long jump, and small ball throw) were used to assess children’s cardiorespiratory fitness, speed, explosive power, and lower and upper body strength, respectively. Results: MppBMI was inversely associated with cardiorespiratory fitness (b = −0.02), lower body strength (b = −1.01), upper body strength (b = −0.07), and speed (b = 0.04). Also, GWG was unfavorably associated with cardiorespiratory fitness (b = −0.02), lower body strength (b = −1.12), upper body strength (b = −0.03), and speed (b = 0.03), after adjusting for sex, birth weight, and children’s BMI (all P values < .05). Children of mothers with an mppBMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and excess GWG had almost 30% and 20% increased odds for low performances in physical fitness tests than those of mothers with an mppBMI < 25 kg/m2 and adequate GWG, respectively. Conclusions: Antenatal factors such as increased mppBMI and excess GWG could play an unfavorable role in the future health of the offspring.
Same father, same face: Deep learning reveals selection for signaling kinship in a wild primate
Authors: Charpentier M. J. E. , Harté M. , Poirotte C. , de Bellefon J. Meric , Laubi B. , Kappeler P. M. , Renoult J. P.
Published: May 2020

Using artificial intelligence, we show that facial resemblance has been kin-selected to signal paternal kinship in a primate.
Blood-borne biomarkers may help predict COVID-19 mortality
Authors: De Vlaminck Iwijn
Published: May 2020

A machine learning algorithm identifies blood-borne markers that are predictive of COVID-19 mortality.
A brake on inflammaging
Authors: Van den Bossche Jan
Published: May 2020

Metformin reverses an aging-associated inflammatory immune profile.
Evaluation of the FecalSwab for Stool Specimen Storage and Molecular Detection of Enteropathogens on the BD Max System
Authors: Richard-Greenblatt Melissa , Rutherford Candy , Luinstra Kathy , Cárdenas Ana María , Pang Xiaoli Lilly , Jayaratne Padman , Smieja Marek
Published: May 2020

The FecalSwab system (Copan Italia, Brescia, Italy) is a convenient alternative to bulk stool for the diagnosis of enteric pathogens. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for transport and culture of enteric bacterial pathogens, the FecalSwab has not been well assessed for its suitability with molecular platforms. In this study, we evaluated the FecalSwab as a specimen type for the BD Max system using the viral and bacterial enteric panels (BD Diagnostics, Baltimore, MD, USA).
Development and Evaluation of a New Triplex Immunoassay That Detects Group A
Streptococcus
Antibodies for the Diagnosis of Rheumatic Fever
Authors: Whitcombe Alana L. , Hanson-Manful Paulina , Jack Susan , Upton Arlo , Carr Polly Atatoa , Williamson Deborah A. , Baker Michael G. , Proft Thomas , Moreland Nicole J.
Published: May 2020

Streptococcal serology is a cornerstone in the diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), a postinfectious sequela associated with group A
Streptococcus
infection. Current tests that measure anti-streptolysin O (ASO) and anti-DNaseB (ADB) titers require parallel processing, with their predictive value limited by the low rate of decay in antibody response. Accordingly, our objective was to develop and assess the diagnostic potential of a triplex bead-based assay, which simultaneously quantifies ASO and ADB together with titers for a third antigen, SpnA.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Tumebacillus
sp. Strain BK434, Isolated from the Roots of Eastern Cottonwood
Authors: Carper Dana L. , Schadt Christopher W. , Burdick Leah H. , Kalluri Udaya C. , Pelletier Dale A.
Published: May 2020

A Gram-positive bacterium was isolated from the root of an eastern cottonwood tree (
Populus deltoides
) in Georgia and identified as a
Tumebacillus
species with 99% 16S rRNA nucleotide identity to
Tumebacillus avium
. The genome is 4.6 Mbp and encodes 4,072 proteins and 251 RNAs.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Ochrobactrum
sp. Strain MC-1LL, a Bacterial Strain with Antimicrobial Properties, Isolated from Marine Sediments in Nigeria
Authors: Odumosu Bamidele Tolulope , Augusta Uzoigwe Ngozika , Cano-Prieto Carolina , Buchmann Anina , Nieselt Kay , Gross Harald
Published: May 2020

Here, we report a 4.3-Mb draft genome sequence of a potential new
Ochrobactrum
species, which clarified its taxonomic position and gave insight into the complete secondary metabolite production capacity of the strain.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Plant Pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum Strain CIAT-078, Isolated in Colombia, Obtained Using Oxford Nanopore Technology
Authors: López-Alvarez Diana , Leiva Ana M. , Barrantes Israel , Pardo Juan M. , Dominguez Viviana , Cuellar Wilmer J.
Published: May 2020

Moko is one of the main diseases affecting banana and plantain in Colombia. Here, we report the genome sequence of the causal agent, the bacterium
Ralstonia solanacearum
(Smith) strain CIAT-078, collected in 2004 from affected plantains in central-west Colombia. The assembled genome was obtained using Oxford Nanopore Technology.
Pneumoperitoneum preconditioning for the prevention of renal function after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: protocol for a double-blind randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zhou Changcheng , Xu Luwei , Xu Zheng , Ge Yuzheng , Zhou Liuhua , Wang Feng , Liu Jingyu , Pan Gaojian , Yang Tianli , Jia Ruipeng
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Renal ischaemia reperfusion injury is an inevitable pathophysiology in different clinical situations including laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN), which can obviously decrease the renal function after surgery. Pneumoperitoneum preconditioning (PP) is a promising approach that can yield a protective effect on kidney, which has already been demonstrated in some animal models. The present study is designed to assess whether the PP can yield a clinical renoprotective role after LPN.

Methods and analysis

This study is a randomised, prospective, double-blind and parallel controlled clinical trial. Eligible participants will be patients with renal tumours and willing to choose elective LPN. Patients randomised to the treatment arm will receive PP consisted of three cycles of 5 min insufﬂation and 5 min desufﬂation before LPN, while the control arm will receive a sham operation. The primary endpoints are glomerular filtration rate and the level of serum cystatin C within 6 months after desufﬂation. The secondary endpoints are serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, alanine transaminase, serum amylase, intestinal fatty acid binding protein, postoperative hospital stay, the incidence of adverse events and mortality in postoperative 6 months.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the institutional ethics committee of Nanjing First Hospital. The results of this study will be reported faithfully through scientific conferences or published articles.

Trial registration number

NCT03822338.