bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil flow mechanisms of full-flow penetrometers in layered clays through particle image velocimetry analysis in centrifuge test
Authors: Wang Yue , Hu Yuxia , Hossain Muhammad Shazzad
Published: January 2020

This paper reports the soil flow mechanisms observed in centrifuge tests around full-flow (T-bar and ball) penetrometers in layered clays. The layered clay samples consisted of soft–stiff, stiff–soft, soft–stiff–soft, and stiff–soft–stiff soil profiles. Particle image velocimetry (PIV), also known as digital image correlation (DIC), allowed accurate resolution of the flow mechanism around the faces of the T-bar and half-ball penetrated adjacent to a transparent window. For the T-bar, overall, a full symmetrical rotational flow around the T-bar dominated the behavior. A novel “trapped cavity mechanism” was revealed in stiff clay layers, with the evolution of the trapped cavity being tracked. No soil plug was trapped at the base of the advancing T-bar regardless of penetration from stiff to soft layer or the reverse. For the ball, two key features of the soil flow mechanism were identified, including (i) a combination of vertical flow, cavity expansion type flow, and rotational flow for a fully embedded ball and (ii) a stiff soil plug trapped at the base of the ball advancing in a stiff–soft clay deposit. For both penetrometers, a squeezing mechanism mobilized as they approached a soft–stiff layer interface.
Standardized ileal digestibility of amino acids and apparent metabolizable energy in corn and soybean meal for organic broiler chicken production in Ontario
Authors: Leung Haley , Kiarie Elijah G.
Published: January 2020

Standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acids (AA) and apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen (AMEn) in samples of organic corn and soybean meal (SBM) were determined. Conventional corn (CC) and SBM (CSBM) samples were tested for comparison. A total of 560, fourteen-day-old male broiler chickens (Cobb 500) were weighed, placed in cages (10 birds per cage), and allocated to seven (n = 8) semi-purified wheat-starch-based diets. Diets were (1) CC, (2) imported organic corn, (3) local organic corn, (4) CSBM, (5) imported organic SBM (OSBMI), (6) local organic SBM (OSBML), and (7) nitrogen-free wheat starch. Only few differences were observed on SID of AA; SID of lysine was lower (P = 0.002) in organic corn samples relative to CC, and SID of methionine was lower (P = 0.002) in OSBML sample relative to CSBM and OSBMI samples. The AMEn of CC was higher (P < 0.01) than that of organic corn samples. The AMEn of OSBML was higher (P < 0.001) than for CSBM and OSBMI; however, the value for OSBMI was higher (P < 0.001) than for CSBM. In conclusion, utilization of AA in conventional and organic feedstuffs was comparable; however, differences in energy utilization warrant considerations in organic broiler feed formulation.
Chlorine isotopes unravel conditions of formation of the Neoproterozoic rock salts from the Salt Range Formation, Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Syed Asim , Han Feng-Qing , Han Jibin , Khan Hawas , Widory David
Published: January 2020

During the late Neoproterozoic, the Salt Range in Pakistan was one of the regions where the Tethys truncated and marine strata developed. The numerous transgressions and regressions that occurred during that period provided enough initial material for the development of marine evaporites. The geology of the Salt Range is characterized by the presence of dense salt layers and the existence of four regional and local scale unconformities. These thick salt deposits geologically favor potash formation. Here we coupled chloride isotope geochemistry and classical chemistry of local halite samples to assess the extent of brine evaporation that ultimately formed the salt deposits. Our results indicate that evaporites in the Salt Range area are Br-rich and precipitated from seawater under arid climate conditions. The corresponding δ37Cl values vary from –1.04‰ to 1.07‰, with an average of –0.25‰ ± 0.52‰, consistent with the isotope range values reported for other evaporites worldwide. The positive δ37Cl values we obtained indicate the addition of nonmarine Cl, possibly from reworking of older evaporites, the influx of dilute seawater, the mixing of meteoric and seawater, and the influence of gypsum-dehydration water. The negative Cl isotope compositions (δ37Cl < –1‰) indicate that brines reached the last stages of salt deposition during the late Neoproterozoic. We conclude that the Salt Range Formation could be promising for K-Mg salts.
Isoorientin Decreases Cell Migration via Decreasing Functional Activity and Molecular Expression of Proton-Linked Monocarboxylate Transporters in Human Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Huang Hsu-Kai , Lee Shin-Yi , Huang Shu-Fen , Lin Yu-San , Chao Shih-Chi , Huang Shu-Fu , Lee Shih-Chun , Cheng Tzu-Hurng , Loh Shih-Hurng , Tsai Yi-Ting
Published: January 2020

Aggressive tumor cells mainly rely on glycolysis, and further release vast amounts of lactate and protons by monocarboxylate transporter (MCT), which causes a higher intracellular pH (pHi) and acidic extracellular pH. Isoorientin, a principle flavonoid compound extracted from several plant species, shows various pharmacological activities. However, effects of isoorientin on anticancer and MCT await to explore in human lung cancer cells. Human lung cancer tissues were obtained from cancer patients undergoing surgery, while the human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) were bought commercially. Change of pHi was detected by microspectrofluorometry method with a pH-sensitive fluorescent dye, BCECF. MTT and wound-healing assay were used to detect the cell viability and migration, respectively. Western blot techniques and immunocytochemistry staining were used to detect the protein expression. Our results indicated that the expression of MCTs1/4 and CD147 were upregulated significantly in human lung tissues. In experiments of A549 cells, under HEPES-buffer, the resting pHi was 7.47, and isoorientin (1–300[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M) inhibited functional activity of MCT concentration-dependently (up to [Formula: see text]%). Pretreatment with isoorientin (3–100[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M) for 24[Formula: see text]h, MCT activity and cell migration were significantly inhibited ([Formula: see text]% and [Formula: see text]%, respectively), while the cell viability was not affected. Moreover, the expression of MCTs1/4, CD147, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2/9 were significantly down regulated. In summary, MCTs1/4 and CD147 are significantly upregulated in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues, and isoorientin inhibits cells-migration by inhibiting activity/expression of MCTs1/4 and MMPs2/9 in human lung cancer cells. These novel findings suggest that isoorientin could be a promising pharmacological agent for lung cancer.
TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF THE CARBON AND NITROGEN-BASED HARD FILMS SLIDING AGAINST THE NICKEL-BASED SUPERALLOY
Authors: LEI X. L. , YANG B. X. , HE Y. , SUN F. H.
Published: January 2020

This study is focused on the tribological properties of micro- and nano-crystalline diamond (MCD and NCD), non-hydrogenated and hydrogenated diamond-like carbon (DLC and DLC-H) and nitrogen-based (CrN, TiN and TiAlN) coatings sliding against the super alloy Inconel 718, in terms of the maximal and average coefficients of frictions (COFs), the worn morphologies and the specific wear rates, by the rotating ball-on-plate configuration under dry condition. The results show that the nitrogen-based films show comparable COFs and wear rates with the WC–Co substrates. The DLC and DLC-H show lower COFs compared with the nitrogen-based films. Furthermore, their wear resistance is limited due to their low thickness compared with MCD and NCD, which have the same elemental composition. The DLC-H coating exhibits much lower wear rate compared with the DLC coating, which may be derived from the passivation of dangling bonds by the linking of H to C atoms. The MCD and NCD films show the lowest average COFs and mild wear after tribotests, due to their high hardness and low adhesive strength between pure diamond and the super alloy.

Among all the tested films, the NCD film-based tribopair presents the lowest maximal and average COFs, tiny wear debris particles, mild wear of ball and plate without scratching grooves, indicating that the NCD film may be suitable to be deposited on cutting tools for super alloy machining.
EFFECTS OF SPRAY PYROLYSIS DEPOSITION PARAMETERS ON MORPHOLOGICAL, OPTICAL AND STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES OF WO3 NANOSTRUCTURED THIN FILMS
Authors: MAVARDIANI ALI AKHAVAN , RAHMANI MOHAMMAD BAGHER
Published: January 2020

In this experimental research, tungsten trioxide (WO3) thin films were deposited using ammonium tungstate ((NH4)2WO4) by a simple and cost-effective technique of spray pyrolysis on top of glass substrates. The surface morphology, structural and optical properties of prepared samples were studied using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern analysis and UV–Vis spectroscopy techniques, respectively. Studied deposition parameters were: substrate temperature (300, 350, 400, 450 and 500∘C), concentration of the precursor solution (0.01, 0.02, 0.04, 0.08, 0.1 and 0.2[Formula: see text]M), volume of the precursor solution (50, 100, 150 and 200[Formula: see text]mL) and the effect of pulsed spraying at different concentrations (0.01, 0.1 and 0.2[Formula: see text]M). FESEM images showed that the surface morphology has formed like nested micro-fibrous rings with a uniform distribution all over the surface. The XRD patterns revealed that increasing the solution concentration to 0.2[Formula: see text]M shows some peaks which can be attributed to WO3 with the hexagonal crystal structure. Transmission spectra of the samples indicate that all of the prepared samples are transparent in the visible range, with the calculated direct bandgap ranging from about 2.93[Formula: see text]eV to 3.96[Formula: see text]eV, depending on the deposition conditions.
Random uniform exponential attractors for non-autonomous stochastic lattice systems and FitzHugh–Nagumo lattice systems with quasi-periodic forces and multiplicative noise
Authors: Han Zongfei , Zhou Shengfan
Published: January 2020

We first give an existence criterion for a random uniform exponential attractor for a jointly continuous non-autonomous random dynamical system defined on the product space of [Formula: see text]-weighted spaces of infinite sequences. Then, based on this criterion, we prove the existence of random uniform exponential attractors for stochastic lattice systems and stochastic FitzHugh–Nagumo lattice systems that are both with quasi-periodic forces.
A Correlation-Based TOPSIS Method for Multiple Attribute Decision Making with Single-Valued Neutrosophic Information
Authors: Zeng Shouzhen , Luo Dandan , Zhang Chonghui , Li Xingsen
Published: January 2020

The single-valued neutrosophic set (SVNS) is considered as an attractive tool for handling highly uncertain and vague information. With this regard, different from the most current distance-based technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) methods, this study proposes a correlation-based TOPSIS model for addressing the single-valued neutrosophic (SVN) multiple attribute decision making (MADM) problems. To achieve this aim, we first develop a novel conception of SVN correlation coefficient, whose significant feature is that it lies in the interval [[Formula: see text],1], which is in accordance with the classical correlation coefficient in statistics, whereas all the existing SVN correlation coefficients in the literature are within unit interval [0,1]. Afterwards, a weighted SVN correlation coefficient is also introduced to infuse the importance of attributes. Moreover, a correlation-based comprehensive index is further proposed to establish the central structure of TOPSIS model, called the SVN correlation-based TOPSIS approach. Finally, a numerical example and relevant comparative analysis are implemented to explain the applicability and effectiveness of the mentioned methodology.
Capture Steps: Robust Walking for Humanoid Robots
Authors: Missura Marcell , Bennewitz Maren , Behnke Sven
Published: January 2020

Stable bipedal walking is a key prerequisite for humanoid robots to reach their potential of being versatile helpers in our everyday environments. Bipedal walking is, however, a complex motion that requires the coordination of many degrees of freedom while it is also inherently unstable and sensitive to disturbances. The balance of a walking biped has to be constantly maintained. The most effective ways of controlling balance are well timed and placed recovery steps — capture steps — that absorb the expense momentum gained from a push or a stumble. We present a bipedal gait generation framework that utilizes step timing and foot placement techniques in order to recover the balance of a biped even after strong disturbances. Our framework modifies the next footstep location instantly when responding to a disturbance and generates controllable omnidirectional walking using only very little sensing and computational power. We exploit the open-loop stability of a central pattern generated gait to fit a linear inverted pendulum model (LIPM) to the observed center of mass (CoM) trajectory. Then, we use the fitted model to predict suitable footstep locations and timings in order to maintain balance while following a target walking velocity. Our experiments show qualitative and statistical evidence of one of the strongest push-recovery capabilities among humanoid robots to date.
Smartphone-Based SpO
2
Measurement by Exploiting Wavelengths Separation and Chromophore Compensation
Authors: Bui Nam , Nguyen Anh , Nguyen Phuc , Truong Hoang , Ashok Ashwin , Dinh Thang , Deterding Robin , Vu Tam
Published: January 2020

Patients with respiratory diseases require frequent and accurate blood oxygen level monitoring. Existing techniques, however, either need a dedicated hardware or fail to predict low saturation levels. To fill in this gap, we propose a phone-based oxygen level estimation system, called PhO
2
, using camera and flashlight functions that are readily available on today’s off-the-shelf smartphones. Since the phone’s camera and flashlight were not made for this purpose, utilizing them for oxygen level estimation poses many difficulties. We introduce a cost-effective add-on together with a set of algorithms for spatial and spectral optical signal modulation to amplify the optical signal of interest while minimizing noise. A near-field-based pressure detection and feedback mechanism are also proposed to mitigate the negative impacts of user’s behavior during the measurement. We also derive a non-linear referencing model with an outlier removal technique that allows PhO
2
to accurately estimate the oxygen level from color intensity ratios produced by the smartphone’s camera.

An evaluation on COTS smartphone with six subjects shows that PhO
2
can estimate the oxygen saturation within 3.5% error rate comparing to FDA-approved gold standard pulse oximetry. In addition, our evaluation in hospitals presents high correlation with ground-truth qualified by the 0.83/1.0 Kendall τ coefficient.
Language Proficiency and Media Richness in Global Virtual Teams
Authors: Fleischmann A. Carolin , Aritz Jolanta , Cardon Peter
Published: January 2020

Virtual teams that use integrated communication platforms are ubiquitous in cross-border collaboration. This study explores the use of communication media and team outcomes—both social outcomes and task accomplishment—in multilingual virtual teams. Based on surveys from 96 virtual teams (with 578 team members), the research shows that the more time spent in rich communication channels, such as online conferences, increased inclusion and satisfaction, whereas the more time spent with written communication that is lower in richness increased the level of task accomplishment. Team members with lower language proficiency felt less included in all collaboration channels, whereas team members with higher language proficiency felt less satisfied with lean collaboration. In addition, limited language proficiency speakers were significantly less likely to view rich tools as helpful for their teams to reach a mutual decision. Our data support media richness theory in its original context for native and highly proficient English speakers. Our study extends the scope of the theory by applying it to the new context of team members with limited language proficiency. Management should implement a collaboration infrastructure consisting of communication platforms that integrate a variety of media to account for different tasks and different communication needs.
Gendered by Design
Authors: Cifor Marika , Garcia Patricia
Published: January 2020

Using fitness trackers to generate and collect quantifiable data is a widespread practice aimed at better understanding one’s health and body. The intentional design of fitness trackers as genderless or universal is predicated on masculinist design values and assumptions that do not result in “neutral” devices and systems. Instead, ignoring gender in the design of fitness tracking devices marks a dangerous ongoing inattention to the needs, desires, and experiences of women, as well as transgender and gender non-conforming persons. We utilize duoethnography, a methodology emphasizing personal narrative and dialogue, as a tool that promotes feminist reflexivity in the design and study of fitness tracking technologies. Using the Jawbone UP3 as our object of study, we present findings that illustrate the gendered physical and interface design features and discuss how these features reproduce narrow understandings of gender, health, and lived experiences.
Engineered Protein Scaffolds as Next-Generation Therapeutics
Authors: Gebauer Michaela , Skerra Arne
Published: January 2020

The concept of engineering robust protein scaffolds for novel binding functions emerged 20 years ago, one decade after the advent of recombinant antibody technology. Early examples were the Affibody, Monobody (Adnectin), and Anticalin proteins, which were derived from fragments of streptococcal protein A, from the tenth type III domain of human fibronectin, and from natural lipocalin proteins, respectively. Since then, this concept has expanded considerably, including many other protein templates. In fact, engineered protein scaffolds with useful binding specificities, mostly directed against targets of biomedical relevance, constitute an area of active research today, which has yielded versatile reagents as laboratory tools. However, despite strong interest from basic science, only a handful of those protein scaffolds have undergone biopharmaceutical development up to the clinical stage. This includes the abovementioned pioneering examples as well as designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins). Here we review the current state and clinical validation of these next-generation therapeutics.
Neonicotinoid Insecticides: Molecular Targets, Resistance, and Toxicity
Authors: Matsuda Kazuhiko , Ihara Makoto , Sattelle David B.
Published: January 2020

Neonicotinoids have been used to protect crops and animals from insect pests since the 1990s, but there are concerns regarding their adverse effects on nontarget organisms, notably on bees. Enhanced resistance to neonicotinoids in pests is becoming well documented. We address the current understanding of neonicotinoid target site interactions, selectivity, and metabolism not only in pests but also in beneficial insects such as bees. The findings are relevant to the management of both neonicotinoids and the new generation of pesticides targeting insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
Combinatorial Studies into the Effect of Thermally Inter-Diffused Magnesium on the Kinetics of Organic Coating Cathodic Delamination from Zinc Galvanized Steel
Authors: Wint N. , Barrett Z. S. , McMurray H. N. , Williams G.
Published: January 2020

This paper describes a high-throughput study into the role of Mg in preventing corrosion driven coating disbondment of organic coatings from Zn-Mg alloy galvanized steel. A graded Mg wedge is applied to a hot-dip zinc galvanised steel substrate using physical vapour deposition, and subsequently annealed to produce metallic inter-diffusion and formation of Mg2Zn11 intermetallic. An overcoat of electrically insulating polyvinyl butyral (PVB) is applied and corrosion is initiated from a penetrative coating defect using an aqueous electrolyte. The variation in Mg coating weight across the wedge facilitates a systematic investigation of the effect of Mg on Volta potential and the rate of corrosion driven cathodic coating disbondment using scanning Kelvin probe (SKP) potentiometry. The rate of cathodic disbondment is shown to decrease rapidly even at very low Mg coating weight (corresponding to 25 nm thickness before annealing). The results are explained in terms of the galvanic polarity of the corrosion cell formed between Zn exposed at the defect site, and the intact Zn-Mg layer at the metal-organic coating interface.
Contrasting effects of stored allogeneic red blood cells and their supernatants on permeability and inflammatory responses in human pulmonary endothelial cells
Authors: Kim Junghyun , Nguyen Trang T. T. , Li Yue , Zhang Chen-Ou , Cha Boyoung , Ke Yunbo , Mazzeffi Michael A. , Tanaka Kenichi A. , Birukova Anna A. , Birukov Konstantin G.
Published: January 2020

Transfusion of red blood cells (RBCs) is a common life-saving clinical practice in severely anemic or hemorrhagic patients; however, it may result in serious pathological complications such as transfusion-related acute lung injury. The factors mediating the deleterious effects of RBC transfusion remain unclear. In this study, we tested the effects of washed long-term (RBC-O; >28 days) versus short-term (RBC-F; <14 days) stored RBCs and their supernatants on lung endothelial (EC) permeability under control and inflammatory conditions. RBCs enhanced basal EC barrier function as evidenced by an increase in transendothelial electrical resistance and decrease in permeability for macromolecules. RBCs also attenuated EC hyperpermeability and suppressed secretion of EC adhesion molecule ICAM-1 and proinflammatory cytokine IL-8 in response to LPS or TNF-α. In both settings, RBC-F had slightly higher barrier protective effects as compared with RBC-O. In contrast, supernatants from both RBC-F and RBC-O disrupted the EC barrier. The early phase of EC permeability response caused by RBC supernatants was partially suppressed by antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine and inhibitor of Src kinase family PP2, while addition of heme blocker and inhibition of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3), stress MAP kinases, receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE), or Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) signaling were without effect. Morphological analysis revealed that RBC supernatants increased LPS- and TNF-α-induced breakdown of intercellular junctions and formation of paracellular gaps. RBC supernatants augmented LPS- and TNF-α-induced EC inflammation reflected by increased production of IL-6, IL-8, and soluble ICAM-1. These findings demonstrate the deleterious effects of RBC supernatants on EC function, which may have a major impact in pathological consequences associated with RBC transfusion.
Respiratory mechanics during initial lung aeration at birth in the preterm lamb
Authors: Veneroni Chiara , Tingay David G. , McCall Karen E. , Pereira-Fantini Prue M. , Perkins Elizabeth J. , Dargaville Peter A. , Dellacà Raffaele L.
Published: January 2020

Despite recent insights into the dynamic processes during lung aeration at birth, several aspects remain poorly understood. We aimed to characterize changes in lung mechanics during the first inflation at birth and their relationship to changes in lung volume. Intubated preterm lambs (gestational age, 124–127 days; n = 17) were studied at birth. Lung volume changes were measured by electrical impedance tomography (VL EIT). Respiratory system resistance (R5) and oscillatory compliance (Cx5) were monitored with the forced oscillation technique at 5 Hz. Lambs received 3–7 s of 8 cmH2O of continuous distending pressure (CDP) before delivery of a sustained inflation (SI) of 40 cmH2O. The SI was then applied until either Cx5 or the VL EIT or the airway opening volume was stable. CDP was resumed for 3–7 s before commencement of mechanical ventilation. The exponential increases with time of Cx5 and VL EIT from commencement of the SI were characterized by estimating their time constants (τCx5 and τVL EIT, respectively). During SI, a fast decrease in R5 and an exponential increase in Cx5 and VL EIT were observed. Cx5 and VL EIT provided comparable information on the dynamics of lung aeration in all lambs, with τCx5 and τVL EIT being highly linearly correlated ( r2 = 0.87, P < 0.001). Cx5 and VL EIT decreased immediately after SI. Despite the standardization of the animal model, changes in Cx5 and R5 both during and after SI were highly variable. Lung aeration at birth is characterized by a fast reduction in resistance and a slower increase in oscillatory compliance, the latter being a direct reflection of the amount of lung aeration.
Greater natriuretic response to ENaC inhibition in male versus female Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Soliman Reham H. , Johnston Jermaine G. , Gohar Eman Y. , Taylor Crystal M. , Pollock David M.
Published: January 2020

Genes for the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunits are expressed in a circadian manner, but whether this results in time-of-day differences in activity is not known. Recent data show that protein expression of ENaC subunits is higher in kidneys from female rats, yet females are more efficient in excreting an acute salt load. Thus, our in vivo study determined whether there is a time-of-day difference as well as a sex difference in the response to ENaC inhibition by benzamil. Our results showed that the natriuretic and diuretic responses to a single dose of benzamil were significantly greater in male compared with female rats whether given at the beginning of the inactive period [Zeitgeber time 0 (ZT0), 7 AM] or active period (ZT12, 7 PM). However, the response to benzamil was not significantly different between ZT0 and ZT12 dosing in either male or female rats. There was no difference in renal cortical α-ENaC protein abundance between ZT0 and ZT12 or males and females. Given previous reports of flow-induced stimulation of endothelin-1 (ET-1) production and sex differences in the renal endothelin system, we measured urinary ET-1 excretion to assess the effects of increased urine flow on intrarenal ET-1. ET-1 excretion was significantly increased following benzamil administration in both sexes, but this increase was significantly greater in females. These results support the hypothesis that ENaC activity is less prominent in maintaining Na+ balance in females independent of renal ET-1. Because ENaC subunit genes and protein expression vary by time of day and are greater in female rat kidneys, this suggests a clear disconnect between ENaC expression and channel activity.
Cell-free mitochondrial DNA increases in maternal circulation during healthy pregnancy: a prospective, longitudinal study
Authors: Cushen Spencer C. , Sprouse Marc L. , Blessing Alexandra , Sun Jie , Jarvis Sara S. , Okada Yoshiyuki , Fu Qi , Romero Steven A. , Phillips Nicole R. , Goulopoulou Styliani
Published: January 2020

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) exposed to the extracellular space due to cell death has immunostimulatory properties. Case-control studies reported a positive association between odds of developing preeclampsia and circulating mtDNA. These findings are based on relative quantification protocols that do not allow determination of absolute concentrations of mtDNA and are highly sensitive to nuclear DNA contamination. Furthermore, circulating mtDNA concentrations in response to normal pregnancy, which is an inflammatory state characterized by continuous placental cell apoptosis, have not been established. The main objective of this study was to determine longitudinal changes in circulating mtDNA from preconception to first trimester, third trimester, and postpartum in healthy pregnant women. Absolute real-time PCR quantification of mtDNA and nuclear DNA (nDNA) was performed on whole genomic extracts from serum using TaqMan probes and chemistry. Serum cell-free mtDNA and nDNA concentrations were greater in late pregnancy as compared with early pregnancy and postpartum. Pregnant women carrying neonates at the upper quartile of birth length distribution had higher concentrations of mtDNA in late pregnancy compared with pregnancies carrying neonates at the lower quartile. The correlation between circulating mtDNA and nDNA concentrations varied by sex (i.e., pregnancies carrying female vs. male fetuses). This study is the first to establish temporal patterns of circulating cell-free mtDNA concentrations in normal human pregnancy using absolute DNA quantification techniques. Concentrations of circulating mtDNA in normal pregnancy may be used as reference values for the development of clinical prognostic or diagnostic tests in pregnant women with, or at risk of developing, gestational complications.
Sex differences in mitochondrial Ca2+ handling in mouse fast-twitch skeletal muscle in vivo
Authors: Watanabe Daiki , Hatakeyama Koji , Ikegami Ryo , Eshima Hiroaki , Yagishita Kazuyoshi , Poole David C. , Kano Yutaka
Published: January 2020

We investigated sex differences in mitochondrial Ca2+ handling properties in mouse fast-twitch skeletal muscle. Changes in cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyto) were measured in vivo using tibialis anterior muscles from male and female mice. The muscles were exposed to increasing concentrations of cyclopiazonic acid [CPA; sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor] (from 10 to 30 to 50 μM at 10 min intervals). Thirty minutes after treatment, [Ca2+]cyto was increased by 31.6 ± 2.0% and 13.5 ± 4.5% of initial [Ca2+]cyto in male and female muscles, respectively, and there was a significant difference between sexes. However, muscle preincubation for 5 min with 10 μM carbonyl cyanide-4-(trifluoromethoxy) phenylhydrazone (an inhibitor of mitochondria Ca2+ uptake) eradicated this difference between sexes with respect to the CPA-induced [Ca2+]cyto increase. Both intermyofibrillar mitochondrial number and volume, assessed in longitudinal fiber sections, were higher in females compared with males (mitochondria number: 13.1 ± 1.0 in males vs. 19.9 ± 2.3 in females; mitochondrial volume: 0.034 ± 0.004 μm3/μm3 fiber volume in males vs. 0.066 ± 0.008 μm3/μm3 fiber volume in females, both P < 0.05). There were no sex differences in the content of SR Ca2+-ATPase, mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter, mitofusin (Mfn) 1, or Mfn2. These results suggest that 1) mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake ability is greater in female than male myocytes, and 2) this superior Ca2+ uptake ability of female myocytes is due, partly, to the higher intermyofibrillar mitochondrial content but not to the expression of mitochondrial proteins related to mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This investigation presents evidence that female versus male fast-twitch muscle exhibits a greater mitochondrial calcium ion uptake capability that is partly conferred by the higher intermyofibrillar mitochondrial volume density.
Quantification of dynamic cerebral autoregulation and CO2 dynamic vasomotor reactivity impairment in essential hypertension
Authors: Marmarelis Vasilis Z. , Shin Dae C. , Oesterreich Mareike , Mueller Martin
Published: January 2020

The study of dynamic cerebral autoregulation (DCA) in essential hypertension has received considerable attention because of its clinical importance. Several studies have examined the dynamic relationship between spontaneous beat-to-beat arterial blood pressure data and contemporaneous cerebral blood flow velocity measurements (obtained via transcranial Doppler at the middle cerebral arteries) in the form of a linear input-output model using transfer function analysis. This analysis is more reliable when the contemporaneous effects of changes in blood CO2 tension are also taken into account, because of the significant effects of CO2 dynamic vasomotor reactivity (DVR) upon cerebral flow. In this article, we extract such input-output predictive models from spontaneous time series hemodynamic data of 24 patients with essential hypertension and 20 normotensive control subjects under resting conditions, using the novel methodology of principal dynamic modes (PDMs) that achieves improved estimation accuracy over previous methods for relatively short and noisy data. The obtained data-based models are subsequently used to compute indexes and markers that quantify DCA and DVR in each subject or patient and therefore can be used to assess the effects of essential hypertension. These model-based DCA and DVR indexes were properly defined to capture the observed effects of DCA and VR and found to be significantly different ( P < 0.05) in the hypertensive patients. We also found significant differences between patients and control subjects in the relative contribution of three PDMs to the model output prediction, a finding that offers the prospect of identifying the physiological mechanisms affected by essential hypertension when the PDMs are interpreted in terms of specific physiological mechanisms.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This article presents novel model-based methodology for obtaining diagnostic indexes of dynamic cerebral autoregulation and dynamic vasomotor reactivity in hypertension.
Exercise-induced vasodilation is not impaired following radial artery catheterization in coronary artery disease patients
Authors: Tryfonos Andrea , Cocks Matthew , Mills Joseph , Green Daniel J. , Dawson Ellen A.
Published: January 2020

Diagnosis and treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD) often involves angiography and/or percutaneous coronary intervention. However, the radial artery catheterization required during both procedures may result in acute artery dysfunction/damage. While exercise-based rehabilitation is recommended for CAD patients following catheterization, it is not known if there is a period when exercise may be detrimental due to catheter-induced damage. Animal studies have demonstrated exercise-induced paradoxical vasoconstriction postcatheterization. This study aimed to examine arterial responses to acute exercise following catheterization. Thirty-three CAD patients (65.8 ± 7.3 yr, 31.5 ± 6.3 kg/m2, 82% men) undergoing transradial catheterization were assessed before and 1 wk postcatheterization. Radial artery (RA) diameter and shear rate were assessed during handgrip exercise (HE), in both the catheterized (CATH) and control (CON) arms. Endothelial function was also assessed via simultaneous bilateral radial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) at both time points. We found that the increase in RA diameter and shear stress in response to HE ( P < 0.0001) was maintained postcatheterization in both the CATH and CON arms, whereas FMD following catheterization was impaired in the CATH [6.5 ± 3.3 to 4.7 ± 3.5% ( P = 0.005)] but not in the CON [6.2 ± 2.6 to 6.4 ± 3.5% ( P = 0.797)] limb. While endothelial dysfunction, assessed by FMD, was apparent 1 wk postcatheterization, the ability of the RA to dilate in response to exercise was not impaired. The impact of catheterization and consequent endothelial denudation on vascular dys/function in humans may therefore be stimulus specific, and a highly level of redundancy appears to exist that preserves exercise-mediated vasodilator responses.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Despite depressed flow-mediated endothelium-dependent dilation following catheterization-induced damage, radial artery responses to handgrip exercise were preserved. This suggests that arterial responses to catheterization may be stimulus specific and that redundant mechanisms may compensate for vasodilator impairment during exercise. This has implications for exercise-based rehabilitation after catheterization.
Impact of exercise training status on the fiber type-specific abundance of proteins regulating intramuscular lipid metabolism
Authors: Shaw C. S. , Swinton C. , Morales-Scholz M. G. , McRae N. , Erftemeyer T. , Aldous A. , Murphy R. M. , Howlett K. F.
Published: January 2020

Endurance training enhances the capacity for fat oxidation during exercise due to increased utilization of intramuscular lipid (IMCL). This study quantitatively investigated the impact of exercise training status on muscle fiber type-specific abundance of regulatory proteins involved in IMCL utilization. Endurance-trained [ n = 7 subjects, peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2peak) 62.6 ± 4.1 (SD) mL·min−1·kg−1] and non-endurance-trained ( n = 8 subjects, V̇o2peak 44.9 ± 5.3 mL·min−1·kg−1) young men completed an incremental exercise test to determine maximal fat oxidation (MFO) and maximal oxygen uptake. Fiber type-specific IMCL content and protein abundance were assessed with immunofluorescence microscopy and immunoblot analysis of pooled single muscle fibers and whole muscle. Endurance-trained individuals displayed a higher MFO rate (0.45 ± 0.15 vs. 0.19 ± 0.07 g/min, P < 0.05), a greater proportion of type I muscle fibers, and higher IMCL content compared with untrained individuals ( P < 0.05). Adipose triglyceride lipase, hormone-sensitive lipase, perilipin 2, perilipin 5, and hydroxyacyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase abundances were ~2–3-fold higher in type I muscle fibers compared with type IIa fibers ( P < 0.05). Correspondingly, these lipid proteins and oxidative enzymes were higher in endurance-trained individuals when assessed in whole muscle. MFO rate was strongly related to the proportion of type I fibers ( R = 0.81, P < 0.01). The abundance of proteins involved in the regulation of IMCL storage and oxidation is highly muscle fiber type specific. The increased capacity for fat oxidation in endurance-trained individuals corresponded with increased IMCL content and elevated abundance of lipolytic and oxidative enzymes in combination with a greater proportion of type I muscle fibers.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We have utilized contemporary techniques to compare the fiber type-specific characteristics of skeletal muscle from endurance-trained athletes and untrained individuals. We show that type I muscle fibers have a coordinated upregulation of proteins controlling intramuscular lipid storage, mobilization, and oxidation. Furthermore, the enhanced capacity for intramuscular lipid storage and utilization in endurance-trained individuals is related to the increased expression of lipid regulatory proteins combined with a greater proportion of type I muscle fibers.
Research on Decision-Making Behavior of Discretionary Lane-Changing Based on Cumulative Prospect Theory
Authors: Long Xueqin , Zhang Liancai , Liu Shanshan , Wang Jianjun
Published: January 2020

In this paper, the decision-making model of discretionary lane-changing is established using cumulative prospect theory (CPT). Through analyzing the vehicles’ dynamic running states, safety spacing calculating approaches for discretionary lane-changing and lane-keeping have been put forward firstly. Then, based on CPT, a lane-changing decision model with accelerating space as its utility is proposed by estimating the difference between actual spacings and the safety spacings for discretionary lane-changing as well as lane-keeping. In order to calculate the utility of discretionary lane-changing, dynamic reference points and a parameter representing driver’s risk preference are introduced into the model. With the real data collected from an urban expressway, the distribution of discretionary lane-changing duration is analyzed, and the model parameters are also calibrated. Furthermore, the applicability of the model is evaluated by comparing with the actual observation and random unity model. Finally, the sensitivity analysis of the model is carried out, that is, assessing the influence degree of each variable on the decision result. The study reveals that the CPT-based model can describe discretionary lane-changing behavior more accurately, which consider drivers’ risk-aversion during decision-making.
New Antibacterial Paper Made of Silver Phosphate Cellulose Fibers: A Preliminary Study on the Elimination of Staphylococcus aureus Involved in Diabetic Foot Ulceration
Authors: Blanchette Virginie , Belosinschi Dan , Lai Thanh Tung , Cloutier Lyne , Barnabé Simon
Published: January 2020

Aim. To evaluate in vitro the antibacterial effect of a paper made of silver phosphate cellulose fibers (SPCF) on Staphylococcus aureus, the most common diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) pathogen when compared with other common commercial products. Methods. The antibacterial activity of SPCF samples was evaluated through time with cell counting on agar plates. SPCF samples were then compared with commercial wound care products currently in use in DFU treatments (Silvercel™, Acticoat 7, and Aquacel Ag ExtraTM) through time on agar plates (growth inhibition zones). Results. After 6 hours, there was no viable bacterial cell detected on either plate (p < 0.05). There was a net growth inhibition zone for SPCF samples but no significant difference between the two silver concentrations. Compared with common commercial products, SPCF paper provides results equal to Acticoat 7 (p < 0.05) and superior to Aquacel AG ExtraTM and Silvercel™ at lower silver concentrations (p < 0.001). Conclusions. These results have shown the efficiency of SPCF paper to eliminate Staphylococcus aureus in these conditions. SPCF papers are effective when compared with other common commercial products and could have an industrial potential in wound care. Infected DFU could benefit from the antibacterial effectiveness of SPCF, but more relevant experimentations related to foot ulcers are needed.
The General Dual Orlicz Geominimal Surface Area
Authors: Li Ni , Mou Shuang
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study the general dual Orlicz geominimal surface area by the general dual Orlicz mixed volume which was introduced by Gardner et al. (2019). We find the conditions to the existence of the general dual Orlicz-Petty body and hence prove the continuity of the general geominimal surface area in the Orlicz setting (2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 52A20, 53A15).
Comparison of Bacterial Community Structure and Diversity in Traditional Gold Mining Waste Disposal Site and Rice Field by Using a Metabarcoding Approach
Authors: Fatimawali  , Kepel Billy Johnson , Gani Maria Apriliani , Tallei Trina Ekawati
Published: January 2020

Traditional small-scale gold mining mostly use mercury to extract the gold from ores. However, mercury contamination in the environment can affect the composition and structure of the bacterial community. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of mercury contamination on the bacterial community in the traditional gold mining waste disposal site and in the rice field. Mercury analysis was carried out using the CVAFS method. Analysis of bacterial communities and structure was carried out based on the results of metabarcoding of the V3-V4 16S rRNA regions obtained from paired-end Illumina MiSeq reads. The results showed that the sample from the mining waste disposal site had a mercury level of 230 mg/kg, while the sample from the rice field had 3.98 mg/kg. The results showed that there were differences in microbial composition and community structure in both locations. With the total reads of 57,031, the most dominant phylum was Firmicutes in the mining disposal site sample. Meanwhile, with the total reads of 33,080, the sample from rice field was dominated by Planctomycetes. The abundant classes of bacteria in the mining waste disposal site, from the highest were Bacilli, Gammaproteobacteria and Planctomycetia, while the sample from the rice field was dominated by the Planctomycetia and Acidobacteria subdivision 6. The families that dominated the sample in disposal site were Bacillaceae and Aeromonadaceae, while the sample from the rice field was dominated by Gemmataceae. The abundant genera in both locations were Bacillus and Gemmata. This study concluded that the high level of mercury in the soil reduced the richness and diversity of bacterial phyla and lower taxa. There was also a shift in the dominance of phyla and lower taxa in both locations. This study provides an understanding of the microbial community structure in the area that is highly contaminated with mercury to open insight into the potential of these bacteria for mercury bioremediation.
Effects of Soil and Water Conservation Measures on Soil Quality Indicators: The Case of Geshy Subcatchment, Gojeb River Catchment, Ethiopia
Authors: Dagnachew Melku , Moges Awdenegest , Kebede Asfaw , Abebe Adane
Published: January 2020

Land degradation is a global negative environmental process that causes the decline in the productivity of land resources’ capacity to perform their functions. Though soil and water conservation (SWC) technologies have been adopted in Geshy subcatchment, their effects on soil quality were limitedly studied. The study was conducted to evaluate the effects SWC measures on soil quality indicators in Geshy subcatchment, Gojeb River Catchment, Ethiopia. A total of 54 soil samples (two treatments–farmlands with and without SWC measures ∗ three slope classes ∗ three terrace positions ∗ three replications) were collected at a depth of 20 cm. Statistical differences in soil quality indicators were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) following the general linear model procedure of SPSS Version 20.0 for Windows. Means that exhibited significant differences were compared using Tukey’s honest significance difference at 5% probability level. The studied soils are characterized by low bulk density, slightly acidic with clay and clay loam texture. The results revealed that farmlands with SWC measures had significantly improved soil physical (silt and clay fractions, and volumetric soil water content (VSWC)) and chemical (pH, SOC, TN, C : N ratio, and Av. phosphorus) quality indicators as compared with farmlands without SWC measures. The significantly higher VSWC, clay, SOC, TN, C : N ratio, and Av. P at the bottom slope classes and terrace positions could be attributed to the erosion reduction and deposition effects of SWC measures. Generally, the status of the studied soils is low in SOC contents, TN, C : N ratio, and Av. P (deficient). Thus, integral use of both physical and biological SWC options and agronomic interventions would have paramount importance in improving soil quality for better agricultural production and productivity.