bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pilot Study of Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Adiposity, and Cardiometabolic Health in Youth With Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Fearnbach S. Nicole , Johannsen Neil M. , Martin Corby K. , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Beyl Robbie A. , Hsia Daniel S. , Carmichael Owen T. , Staiano Amanda E.
Published: April 2020

Objective: To conduct a preliminary assessment of the relationships between cardiorespiratory fitness, adiposity, and cardiometabolic health using gold standard measures in diverse youth ranging from overweight to severe obesity. Methods: Twenty of 30 participants (mean [SD]; age 13.2 [1.8] y, 55% female, 45% African American) met the criteria for VO2peak during a graded cycle ergometer test to volitional fatigue. The body composition was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (percentage of body fat, fat mass index, and fat-free mass) and magnetic resonance imaging (abdominal visceral and subcutaneous [SAT] adipose tissue). The VO2peak was expressed relative to fat-free mass. Fasting lipid levels, glycemic biomarkers, and vital signs were examined individually and used in a composite cardiometabolic risk score. Accelerometer-measured physical activity and sedentary time were included as covariates. Results: VO2peak was negatively associated with abdominal SAT (r = −.49, P < .05), but not visceral adipose tissue or markers of cardiometabolic health. The association between SAT and VO2peak was partly explained by habitual sedentary time. Conclusions: We demonstrated a significant negative association between cardiorespiratory fitness and SAT in a diverse group of high-risk youth. The inclusion of rigorous, laboratory-based measures and youth with severe obesity extends the previous work in pediatric populations.
An ACE therapy for COVID-19
Authors: Rodell Christopher B.
Published: April 2020

Recombinant human soluble ACE2 inhibits SARS-CoV-2 viral infection in human organoids in vitro.
Macropinocytosis and Clathrin-Dependent Endocytosis Play Pivotal Roles for the Infectious Entry of Puumala Virus
Authors: Bauherr Sandy , Larsberg Filip , Petrich Annett , Sperber Hannah Sabeth , Klose-Grzelka Victoria , Luckner Madlen , Azab Walid , Schade Matthias , Höfer Chris Tina , Lehmann Maik Joerg , Witkowski Peter T. , Krüger Detlev H. , Herrmann Andreas , Schwarzer Roland
Published: April 2020

The family
Hantaviridae
comprises a diverse group of virus species and is considered an emerging global public health threat. Individual hantavirus species differ considerably in terms of their pathogenicity but also in their cell biology and host-pathogen interactions. In this study, we focused on the most prevalent pathogenic hantavirus in Europe, Puumala virus (PUUV), and investigated the entry and internalization of PUUV into mammalian cells. We show that both clathrin-mediated endocytosis and macropinocytosis are cellular pathways exploited by the virus to establish productive infections and demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of macropinocytosis or a targeted knockdown using RNA interference significantly reduced viral infections. We also found indications of an increase of macropinocytic uptake upon PUUV infection, suggesting that the virus triggers specific cellular mechanisms in order to stimulate its own internalization, thus facilitating infection.
Closed Genome Sequences of 28 Foodborne Pathogens from the CFSAN Verification Set, Determined by a Combination of Long and Short Reads
Authors: Gonzalez-Escalona Narjol , Kastanis George John , Timme Ruth , Roberson Dwayne , Balkey Maria , Tallent Sandra M.
Published: April 2020

Foodborne pathogens have been implicated in illnesses worldwide. Here, we report the complete closed genome sequences of 28 bacterial strains belonging to 18 different species. These genomes belong to known foodborne pathogens. The genomes were closed by a combination of long-read and short-read sequencing.
Genome Sequences of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e Strains Isolated in Pakistan
Authors: Hicks Hayley M. , Wadsworth Jemma , Azhar Mehreen , Afzal Muhammad , Manzoor Shumaila , Abubakar Muhammad , Khan Ehtisham-ul-Haq , King Donald P. , Knowles Nick J.
Published: April 2020

The genome sequences of two foot-and-mouth disease type O viruses isolated from outbreaks of disease in cattle in Pakistan in 2019 are described. They were identified as belonging to serotype O, Middle East-South Asia topotype, Ind-2001 lineage, and e sublineage and represent the first identification of this lineage in Pakistan.
Integrated Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Sequence in J-Lat 10.6
Authors: Chung Cheng-Han , Mele Anthony R. , Allen Alexander G. , Costello Robert , Dampier Will , Nonnemacher Michael R. , Wigdahl Brian
Published: April 2020

The full length of HIV/R7/E
−
/GFP integrated in the J-Lat 10.6 cell line was sequenced in this study. The single copy of the integrated virus, including the breakpoints from the human chromosome to the provirus, was amplified by two separate PCRs. A 10,200-bp genome sequence was acquired, analyzed, and deposited in GenBank.
Draft Genome Sequences of Six Type Strains of the Genus
Massilia
Authors: Miess Henrike , Frediansyah Andri , Göker Markus , Gross Harald
Published: April 2020

High-quality draft genome sequences were determined for 6
Massilia
sp. type strains. The genomes of these strains show considerable biosynthetic potential for producing secondary metabolites.
The spatial flux of Earth’s meteorite falls found via Antarctic data
Authors: Evatt G.W. , Smedley A.R.D. , Joy K.H. , Hunter L. , Tey W.H. , Abrahams I.D. , Gerrish L.
Published: April 2020

Contemporary calculations for the flux of extraterrestrial material falling to the Earth’s surface (each event referred to as a “fall”) rely upon either short-duration fireball monitoring networks or spatially limited ground-based meteorite searches. To date, making accurate fall flux estimates from the much-documented meteorite stranding zones of Antarctica has been prohibited due to complicating glacial ice dynamics and difficulties in pairing together distinct meteorite samples originating from the same fall. Through glaciological analysis and use of meteorite collection data, we demonstrate how to overcome these barriers to making flux estimates. Furthermore, by showing that a clear latitudinal variation in fall frequencies exists and then modeling its mathematical form, we are able to expand our Antarctic result to a global setting. In this way, we hereby provide the most accurate contemporary fall flux estimates for anywhere on Earth. Inverting the methodology provides a valuable tool for planning new meteorite collection missions to unvisited regions of Antarctica. Our modeling also enables a reassessment of the risk to Earth from larger meteoroid impacts—now 12% higher at the equator and 27% lower at the poles than if the flux were globally uniform.
Pliocene–Pleistocene megafloods as a mechanism for Greenlandic megacanyon formation
Authors: Keisling Benjamin A. , Nielsen Lisbeth T. , Hvidberg Christine S. , Nuterman Roman , DeConto Robert M.
Published: April 2020

The Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) covers a complex network of canyons thought to be preglacial and fluvial in origin, implying that these features have influenced the ice sheet since its inception. The largest of these canyons terminates in northwest Greenland at the outlet of the Petermann Glacier. Yet, the genesis of this canyon, and similar features in northern Greenland, remains unknown. Here, we present numerical model simulations of early GrIS history and show that interactions among climate, the growing ice sheet, and preexisting topography may have contributed to the excavation of the canyon via repeated catastrophic outburst floods. Our results have implications for interpreting sedimentary and geomorphic features beneath the GrIS and around its marine margins, and they document a novel mechanism for landscape erosion in Greenland.
Facial twitching: calcium or concussion conundrum? Hypocalcaemia in a young American football player masking an internal carotid artery dissection
Authors: Muthalagappan Seethalakshmi , Robbins Timothy , Mehta Hiten , Murthy Narasimha
Published: April 2020

A 30-year-old male American football player presented to the acute medical unit with left-hand and hemifacial spasms. History and examination revealed hemifacial spasms in keeping with seizure-like activity possibly due to symptomatic hypocalcaemia. Subsequent investigations revealed an adjusted calcium of 1.87 mmol/L and, hence, he was managed with intravenous calcium replacement. He presented two further times in a 1-month period, with subjective limb weakness, despite normal adjusted calcium. During his third admission, he developed slurred speech and a marked facial droop, with absence of power in the right upper limb. Imaging revealed acute and old infarctions in the left middle cerebral artery territory and appearances consistent with left internal carotid artery dissection. This presentation of arterial stroke is atypical but with potentially grave consequences if missed. There is limited literature on the presentation of hemifacial spasm, and its association with ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke represents a key learning point.
Effects of moxibustion on symptoms of mild cognitive impairment: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Lin-Peng , Wang Gui-Ling , Sun Jing-Qing , Mao Xue-Wen , Jiang Hui-Li , Li Bin , Liu Cun-Zhi
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is considered the intermediate phase between normal age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Moxibustion has gained increased popularity for the management of MCI in China.This study aimed to evaluate the effects and safety of moxibustion on symptoms of MCI.

Methods and analysis

Four English databases and six Chinese databases will be searched from their inception to October 2019: Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database, Wanfang Database, SinoMed, China Doctoral Dissertations Full-text Database and the China Master’s Theses Full-text Database. Only clinical randomised controlled trials and the first period in randomised cross-over trial related to moxibustion for MCI will be included. The primary outcomes include the improvement of cognitive function, as measured by validated assessment tools. The secondary outcomes include changes in the activity of daily living scale, effective rate and the incidences of adverse events. The selection of studies, data extraction and risk of bias assessment will be carried out by two independent reviewers. Review Manager V.5.3 software will be used for statistical analyses. Heterogeneity test, data synthesis and subgroup analysis will be performed if necessary. The risk of bias of included studies will be assessed by theCochrane Handbookrisk of bias tool. Evidence quality will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required as no private information from individuals are collected. The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal or disseminated in relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

CRD42018112657.
Estimating abortion incidence and unintended pregnancy among adolescents in Zimbabwe, 2016: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Riley Taylor , Madziyire Mugove G. , Chipato Tsungai , Sully Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To estimate age-specific abortion incidence and unintended pregnancy in Zimbabwe, and to examine differences among adolescents by marital status and residence.

Design

We used a variant of the Abortion Incidence Complications Methodology, an indirect estimation approach, to estimate age-specific abortion incidence. We used three surveys: the Health Facility Survey, a census of 227 facilities that provide postabortion care (PAC); the Health Professional Survey, a purposive sample of key informants knowledgeable about abortion (n=118) and the Prospective Morbidity Survey of PAC patients (n=1002).

Setting

PAC-providing health facilities in Zimbabwe.

Participants

Healthcare providers in PAC-providing facilities and women presenting to facilities with postabortion complications.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was abortion incidence (in rates and ratios). The secondary outcome measure was the proportion of unintended pregnancies that end in abortion.

Results

Adolescent women aged 15–19 years had the lowest abortion rate at five abortions per 1000 women aged 15–19 years compared with other age groups. Adolescents living in urban areas had a higher abortion ratio compared with adolescents in rural areas, and unmarried adolescent women had a higher abortion ratio compared with married adolescents. Unintended pregnancy levels were similar across age groups, and adolescent women had the lowest proportion of unintended pregnancies that ended in induced abortion (9%) compared with other age groups.

Conclusions

This paper provides the first estimates of age-specific abortion and unintended pregnancy in Zimbabwe. Despite similar levels of unintended pregnancy across age groups, these findings suggest that adolescent women have abortions at lower rates and carry a higher proportion of unintended pregnancies to term than older women. Adolescent women are also not a homogeneous group, and youth-focused reproductive health programmes should consider the differences in experiences and barriers to care among young people that affect their ability to decide whether and when to parent.
Requests for futile treatments: what mechanisms play a role? Results of a qualitative study among Dutch physicians
Authors: van Bruchem-Visser Rozemarijn Lidewij , van Dijk Gert , Mattace Raso Francesco , de Beaufort Inez
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Overtreatment is increasingly seen as a challenge in clinical practice and can lead to unnecessary interventions, poor healthcare outcomes and increasing costs. However, little is known as to what exactly causes overtreatment. In 2015, the Royal Dutch Medical Association (RDMA) attempted to address this problem and distinguished several mechanisms that were thought to drive overtreatment. In 14 qualitative interviews among Dutch physicians, we investigated which mechanisms played a role in decision-making and whether all mechanisms were considered equally important.

Design

We asked physicians to present a case from personal experience, in which the patient or family requested continuing treatment against the advice of the physician.

Participants

Fourteen physicians from five different medical areas agreed to participate.

Setting

Interviews were held face-to-face at the workplace of the physician.

Results

Three closely related mechanisms were mentioned most frequently as drivers of overtreatment, as perceived by the physician: ‘death is not a common topic of conversation’, ‘‘never give up’ is the default attitude in our society’ and ‘patients’ culture and outlook on life influences their perception of death’. The mechanism ‘medical view taking priority’ was mentioned to be an inhibitor of overtreatment.

Conclusions

Of the 15 mechanisms described by the report of the Steering Committee of the RDMA, not all mechanisms were mentioned as driving overtreatment. Three mechanisms were mentioned most as being a driver of overtreatment (‘death is not a common topic of conversation’; ‘‘never give up’ is the default attitude in our society’' and ‘patients’ culture and outlook on life influences their perception of death’), some played no role at all, and others were considered to be inhibitors of overtreatment, especially the mechanism ‘medical view taking priority’.
End-of-life management protocol offered within emergency room (EMPOWER): study protocol for a multicentre study
Authors: Yash Pal Rakhee , Kuan Win Sen , Tiah Ling , Kumar Ranjeev , Wong Yoko Kin Yoke , Shi Luming , Zheng Charles Qishi , Lin Jingping , Liang Sufang , Segara Uma Chandra , Yong Woon Chai , Chan Noreen Guek Cheng , Chua Mui Teng , Ibrahim Irwani
Published: April 2020

Background

Patients at their end-of-life (EOL) phase frequently visit the emergency department (ED) due to their symptoms, yet the environment and physicians in ED are not traditionally equipped or trained to provide palliative care. This multicentre study aims to measure the current quality of EOL care in ED to identify gaps, formulate improvements and implement the improved EOL care protocol. We shall also evaluate healthcare resource utilisation and its associated costs.

Methods and analysis

This study employs a quasiexperimental interrupted time series design using both qualitative and quantitative methods, involving the EDs of three tertiary hospitals in Singapore, over a period of 3 years. There are five phases in this study: (1) retrospective chart reviews of patients who died within 5 days of ED attendance; (2) pilot phase to validate the CODE questionnaire in the local context; (3) preimplementation phase; (4) focus group discussions (FGDs); and (5) postimplementation phase. In the prospective cohort, patients who are actively dying or have high likelihood of mortality this admission, and whose goal of care is palliation, will be eligible for inclusion. At least 140 patients will be recruited for each preimplementation and postimplementation phase. There will be face-to-face interviews with patients’ family members, review of medical records and self-administered staff survey to evaluate existing knowledge and confidence. The FGDs will involve hospital and community healthcare providers. Data obtained from the retrospective cohort, preimplementation phase and FGDs will be used to guide prospective improvement and protocol changes. Patient, family and staff relevant outcomes from these changes will be measured using time series regression.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been reviewed and ethics approval obtained from the National Healthcare Group Domain Specific Review Board, Singapore. The results from this study will be actively disseminated through manuscript publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT03906747.
Prevalence of speeding and associated factors in four Mexican cities
Authors: Hidalgo-Solórzano Elisa , Gómez-García Lourdes , Mojarro-Íñiguez Francisco R , Pérez-Núñez Ricardo
Published: April 2020

Background

Speeding is responsible for countless traffic collisions and road traffic injuries (RTIs) around the world. It threatens the lives of passengers in motor vehicles as well as the safety of other individuals sharing the public roads. Little evidence has been provided by low- and middle-income countries on speed transgression patterns.

Objective

To document the prevalence of speeding in motor vehicles with four or more wheels and to analyse the associated factors in four Mexican cities.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in the cities of Guadalajara-Zapopan, León, Cuernavaca and Villahermosa. Data on speed, drivers, vehicles, road infrastructure and the environment were collected from a randomly selected sample of urban road segments. We identified the factors associated with speeding through a logistic multiple regression model.

Results

With an overall prevalence of 47% (95% CI 45.83 to 48.18), speeding occurred most frequently in Villahermosa (61.07%, 95% CI 59.10 to 63.01) as compared to León (51%, 95% CI 48.07 to 53.92), Cuernavaca (47.6%, 95% CI 45.35 to 49.85) and Guadalajara-Zapopan (20.76%, 95% CI 18.75 to 22.88). Speeding increased in the afternoons, on roads with numerous lanes, on Thursdays and Sundays and in foggy weather, but decreased in cities with speed control strategies and on roads with low visibility. No differences were observed between sexes or among age groups.

Conclusions

Evidence from our study highlights the urgent need to implement speed control measures such as changes in road infrastructure and design, and to promote comprehensive speeding legislation aimed at reducing exposure to this important risk factor.
Sex differences in motor unit discharge rates at maximal and submaximal levels of force output
Authors: Inglis J. Greig , Gabriel David A.
Published: April 2020

This study evaluated potential sex differences in motor unit (MU) behaviour at maximal and submaximal force outputs. Forty-eight participants, 24 females and 24 males, performed isometric dorsiflexion contractions at 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% of a maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Tibialis anterior electromyography was recorded both by surface and intramuscular electrodes. Compared with males, females had a greater MU discharge rate (MUDR) averaged across all submaximal intensities (Δ 0.45 pps, 2.56%). Males exhibited greater increases in MUDR above 40% MVC, surpassing females at 100% MVC (p’s < 0.01). Averaged across all force outputs, females had a greater incidence of doublet and rapid discharges and a greater percentage of MU trains with doublet and rapid (5–10 ms) discharges (Δ 75.55% and 61.48%, respectively; p’s < 0.01). A subset of males (n = 8) and females (n = 8), matched for maximum force output, revealed that females had even greater MUDR (Δ 1.38 pps, 7.47%) and percentage of MU trains with doublet and rapid discharges (Δ 51.62%, 56.68%, respectively; p’s < 0.01) compared with males at each force output, including 100% MVC. Analysis of the subset of strength-matched males and females suggest that sex differences in MU behaviour may be a result of females needing to generate greater neural drive to achieve fused tetanus.

Novelty Females had higher MUDRs and greater percentage of MU trains with doublets across submaximal force outputs (20%–80% MVC). Differences were even greater for a strength matched subset. Differences in motor unit behaviour may arise from musculoskeletal differences, requiring greater neural drive in females.
Effect of strength training and antioxidant supplementation on perceived and performance fatigability in breast cancer survivors: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study
Authors: de Lima Filipe Dinato , Battaglini Cláudio L. , Chaves Sandro Nobre , Ugliara Lucas , Sarandy Jonathan , Lima Ricardo Moreno , Bottaro Martim
Published: April 2020

This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study aimed to investigate the effect of strength training (ST) combined with vitamin C and E supplementation on perceived and performance fatigability in breast cancer survivors (BCS). Twenty-five BCS were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: vitamins (VIT; n = 12; 51.0 ± 9.0 years) or placebo (PLA; n = 13; 48.2 ± 8.3 years). Both groups performed a 10-week ST protocol, twice a week. The VIT group was supplemented with vitamins C (500 mg/day) and E (180 mg/day) and the PLA group with polydextrose (1 g/day), once a day after breakfast. At the beginning and at the end of the training period, perceived fatigability was assessed using Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI)-20 (general fatigue and physical fatigue). Performance fatigability was assessed during 30 maximal isokinetic knee extensions at 120°/s. General fatigue decreased similarly in the VIT (p = 0.004) and PLA (p = 0.011) groups. Physical fatigue decreased similarly in the VIT (p = 0.011) and PLA (p = 0.001) groups. Performance fatigability also decreased similarly in the VIT (p = 0.026) and PLA (p < 0.001) groups. There was no difference between groups at any moment (p > 0.05). In summary, antioxidant supplementation does not add any positive synergistic effect to ST in terms of improving perceived or performance fatigability in BCS. This clinical trial is registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry, number RBR-843pth (UTN no.: U1111-1222-6511).

Novelty ST with maximal repetitions reduces perceived and performance fatigability of BCS. Vitamins C and E supplementation does not add any positive synergistic effect to ST in terms of reducing fatigability in BCS.
Relaxing the TCC bound on inflationary cosmology?
Authors: Kamali Vahid , Brandenberger Robert
Published: April 2020

We demonstrate that the strict upper bounds on the energy scale of inflation and on the tensor-to-scalar ratio can be somewhat relaxed if we assume that – after an initial period of slow rolling when scales probed today in CMB experiments exit the Hubble radius – the equation of state of the background changes to correspond to an almost marginally accelerating universe. Constructing an actual model in which this happens appears, however, to be unnatural.
New Kähler invariant Fayet–Iliopoulos terms in supergravity and cosmological applications
Authors: Antoniadis I. , Rondeau F.
Published: April 2020

Recently, a new type of constant Fayet–Iliopoulos (FI) terms was introduced in $${\mathcal {N}}=1$$

N
=
1

supergravity, which do not require the gauging of the R-symmetry. We revisit and generalise these constructions, building a new class of Kähler invariant FI terms parametrised by a function of the gravitino mass as functional of the chiral superfields, which is then used to describe new models of inflation. They are based on a no-scale supergravity model of the inflaton chiral multiplet, supplemented by an abelian vector multiplet with the new FI-term. We show that the inflaton potential is compatible with the CMB observational data, with a vacuum energy at the minimum that can be tuned to a tiny positive value. Finally, the axionic shift symmetry can be gauged by the U(1) which becomes massive. These models offer a mechanism for fixing the gravitino mass in no-scale supergravities, that corresponds to a flat direction of the scalar potential in the absence of the new FI-term; its origin in string theory is an interesting open problem.
News and the city: understanding online press consumption patterns through mobile data
Authors: Vilella Salvatore , Paolotti Daniela , Ruffo Giancarlo , Ferres Leo
Published: April 2020

The always increasing mobile connectivity affects every aspect of our daily lives, including how and when we keep ourselves informed and consult news media. By studying a DPI (deep packet inspection) dataset, provided by one of the major Chilean telecommunication companies, we investigate how different cohorts of the population of Santiago De Chile consume news media content through their smartphones. We find that some socio-demographic attributes are highly associated to specific news media consumption patterns. In particular, education and age play a significant role in shaping the consumers behaviour even in the digital context, in agreement with a large body of literature on off-line media distribution channels.
Smoothing Homotopy Method for Solving Second-Order Cone Complementarity Problem
Authors: Fan Xiaona , Zeng Min , Jiang Li
Published: April 2020

In this paper, based on Chen–Harker–Kanzow–Smale smooth function, we obtain a smoothing homotopy method to solve the second-order cone complementarity problem. The global convergence is ensured under certain non-monotonicity condition for the defined mapping [Formula: see text]. The numerical results illustrate that this method is feasible.
Study on micro-nano structures’ wettability transformation mechanism of femtosecond laser on aluminium alloy
Authors: Fu Wenjing , Yuan Xiaodong , Wang Zhen , Yao Caizhen , Zhang Rongzhu
Published: April 2020

In this work, superhydrophilic surfaces are obtained on LY12 aluminium alloy by irradiation of femtosecond (Fs). First, based on the theory of laser induced surface plasmon polariton, the formation mechanism of micro-nano structures is analyzed. Then the periodic change of the micro-nano structures with different wavelength and incident angle is calculated. According to the theoretical results, the structure period is 600 nm at the vertical incident and incident wavelength with 800 nm, and the experimental results agree with the theoretical results. Furthermore, two different kinds of postprocessing methods are employed to change the superhydrophilic surfaces to superhydrophobic surfaces. All the micro-nano structures are tested by scanning electron microscope (SEM), contact angle (CA) and Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR). By analyzing the function of the functional groups of C–H, C–F and C–O, the transition mechanism of the surface from superhydrophilicity to superhydrophobicity is also explored.
Comparison of Highly Purified HMG versus Recombinant FSH with Antagonist Protocol in Poor Responder Patients
Authors: Polim Arie A. , Handayani Nining , Pratiwi Adinda , Hutomo Caroline , Boediono Arief , Sini Ivan
Published: April 2020

Background:Luteinizing hormone (LH) supplementation may have beneficial effect on the maturity and fertilizability of oocytes in poor ovarian reserve (POR) and may influence the progesterone level, thus increasing the pregnancy rate. However, previous studies on the effect of LH activity supplementation on poor responders have shown conflicting results. This study aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness of two different forms of gonadotropin (highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin (HP-HMG) vs. recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (r-hFSH)-only) in Indonesian population.

Methods: Women diagnosed with poor ovarian response who received gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol with either HP-HMG or r-hFSH-only were investigated. Women who underwent freeze all cycles, mini stimulation, and natural stimulation were excluded. Multiple logistic regression was performed to assess the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) + human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)-driven LH activity combination in HP-HMG to pregnancy event adjusting for progesterone level, demographic variables, and clinical characteristic variables.

Results: A total of 101 subjects in the HP-HMG treatment group and 89 subjects in r-hFSH-only treatment group were involved in the study. There was no significant difference of clinical pregnancy rate between HP-HMG group and r-hFSH-only group (adjusted OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.39–2.25; p-value: 0.890).

Conclusion: Compared to r-hFSH-only group, combination of FSH + HCG-driven LH activity in HP-HMG group had similar effectiveness in poor responders undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the antagonist protocol.
The Dobra Gneiss and the Drosendorf Unit in the southeastern Bohemian Massif, Austria: West Amazonian crust in the heart of Europe
Authors: Lindner Martin , Dörr Wolfgang , Reither Daniel , Finger Fritz
Published: April 2020

U–Pb zircon dating and geochemical investigations were applied to rocks from the Variscan deformed and metamorphosed Drosendorf Unit of the eastern Bohemian Massif, Austria. Data show that this unit contains remnants of a Mesoproterozoic granite (Dobra Gneiss Type A), early Neoproterozoic sediments (paragneiss, marble) and late Neoproterozoic volcanic-arc granitoids from the Avalonian–Cadomian peri-Gondwana Orogen (Dobra Gneiss Type B, Spitz Gneiss). A rock association of such old age is extraordinary in the Variscan Orogen. We interpret that these rocks were originally part of the Brunovistulian foreland plate (i.e. part of Avalonian Europe and the Devonian Old Red Continent, respectively) before being tectonically incorporated into the eastern flank of the Variscan Orogen. This interpretation is considered likely because the Dobra Gneiss Type B turned out to be extremely similar, geochemically and in age, to the Bittesch Gneiss in the Moravian Zone, which is generally accepted as a Brunovistulian (i.e. Avalonian) rock. Based on the zircon ages measured in ortho- and paragneiss samples, the Drosendorf Unit can be excellently correlated with West Amazonia. This supports the long-standing idea that Avalonian Europe contains terranes of Amazonian ancestry. A model is presented to show how West Amazonian rocks could have been transferred to Europe in the Early Paleozoic.
Tonian–Ediacaran tectonomagmatic evolution of West Avalonia and its Ediacaran–early Cambrian interactions with Ganderia: an example of complex terrane transfer due to arc–arc collision?
Authors: van Staal C. R. , Barr S. M. , McCausland P. J. A. , Thompson M. D. , White C. E.
Published: April 2020

The Neoproterozoic tectonomagmatic evolution of West Avalonia comprises four major events. Tectonism started with the formation of a Tonian passive margin on a Baltica-derived ribbon dispersed into the Mirovoi Ocean. Obduction of an oceanic terrane onto the ribbon produced olistostromes, deformation and metamorphism before 750 Ma. Obduction was followed by a Tonian (750–730 Ma) arc on the created composite crust. A pause in magmatism between 730 and 700 Ma is the next event. Subsequently, a Cyrogenian (700–670 Ma) arc was formed, which may have collided with Baltica or another buoyant element nearby. Thereafter, a long-lasting (640–565 Ma) continental arc was erected which, combined with the late Ediacaran–Early Paleozoic sedimentary cover, represents the hallmark of West Avalonia. A Caribbean-style incursion of the Ediacaran arc into the widening Tornquist gap between Amazonia and Baltica led to a diachronous collision with the Ganderian arc. Strike-slip slivering produced a complex transfer of terranes to both: Carolinia and smaller terranes to Ganderia, and East Avalonia to West Avalonia. The Rheic Ocean opened diachronously at
c.
500 Ma, following a plate reorganization and re-establishment of an oblique subduction zone beneath Amazonia. As a result, Avalonia and Ganderia became progressively separated and dispersed into the Iapetus Ocean.
How goblet cells respond to dry eye: adaptive and pathological roles of voltage-gated calcium channels and P2X7 purinoceptors
Authors: Puro Donald G.
Published: April 2020

Dry eye is a common sight-impairing, painful disorder characterized by disruption of the preocular tear film, whose integrity is required for ~70% of the eye’s refractive power. A universal feature of clinical dry eye is hyperosmolarity of the tears resulting from their accelerated evaporation due to dysfunction of tear- and oil-producing ocular glands. A key adaptive response to dryness/hyperosmolarity is release of tear-stabilizing mucin by conjunctival goblet cells. Yet the mechanisms mediating this response to hyperosmolarity remain poorly understood. In this study of freshly excised rat conjunctiva, perforated-patch recordings revealed that during sustained hyperosmolarity, the development of a nonspecific cation (NSC) conductance depolarizes the goblet cells to a near-optimal voltage for the tonic activation of their voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). In turn, as demonstrated by high-resolution membrane capacitance measurements, VGCC activation boosts the exocytotic response of conjunctival goblet cells to neural input. However, over time, VGCC activation also increases the vulnerability of these cells to the lethality of hyperosmolarity. Viability assays further revealed that hyperosmotic-induced goblet cell death is critically dependent on P2X7 receptor channels. Similar to the yin-yang impact of VGCCs on goblet cell physiology and pathobiology, P2X7 activation not only compromises goblet cell viability but also enhances exocytotic activity. Thus, the NSC/VGCC and P2X7 purinoceptor pathways are components of a previously unappreciated high-gain/high-risk adaptive strategy to combat ocular dryness. These pathways boost release of tear-stabilizing mucin at the risk of jeopardizing the viability of the conjunctival goblet cells, whose loss is a histopathological hallmark of irreversible mucin-deficient dry eye.
TRIM59 inhibits PPM1A through ubiquitination and activates TGF-β/Smad signaling to promote the invasion of ectopic endometrial stromal cells in endometriosis
Authors: Wang Fengyu , Wang Haili , Sun Lei , Niu Chengling , Xu Jie
Published: April 2020

This study was conducted to define the underlying molecular mechanism of tripartite motif (TRIM) 59-induced invasion of ectopic endometrial stromal cells in endometriosis. Primary endometriosis ectopic endometrial stromal cells and normal endometrial cells were isolated and purified. Western blot was used to detect the expression of TRIM59, protein phosphatase Mg2+/Mn2+-dependent 1A (PPM1A), smad2/3, and phosphorylated (p)-smad2/3. Lentiviral vector-mediated TRIM59 interference and overexpression were established. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to detect cell proliferation, and the Transwell migration assay was used to detect cell invasion. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2), MMP9, smad2/3, and p-smad2/3 expressions were also detected using Western blot analysis; degradation of PPM1A was verified to be through ubiquitination. We found that TRIM59 expression levels in the endometriosis group was significantly higher compared with the normal group ( P < 0.05), whereas the expression levels of PPM1A in the endometriosis group were significantly lower ( P < 0.05). Endometriosis did not alter smad2/3 ( P > 0.05) expression. However, after activating smad2/3 by phosphorylation, the expression of p-smad2/3 in the endometriosis group was significantly higher compared with the normal group ( P < 0.05). The content of PPM1A in the TRIM59 overexpression group was significantly lower than that in the control group ( P < 0.001), whereas the content of PPM1A in the siTRIM59 group was significantly higher than that in the control group ( P < 0.001). In addition, there were no significant differences in the mRNA levels of PPM1A among the five groups, indicating that TRIM59 affects the expression of PPM1A at the posttranslational level ( P < 0.05). Overexpression of TRIM59 significantly promoted the ubiquitination of PPM1A. We conclude that TRIM59 inhibits PPM1A through ubiquitination and activates the transforming growth factor-β/Smad pathway to promote the invasion of ectopic endometrial stromal cells in endometriosis.
Traction and attraction: haptotaxis substrates collagen and fibronectin interact with chemotaxis by HGF to regulate myoblast migration in a microfluidic device
Authors: Roveimiab Ziba , Lin Francis , Anderson Judy E.
Published: April 2020

Cell migration is central to development, wound healing, tissue regeneration, and immunity. Despite extensive knowledge of muscle regeneration, myoblast migration during regeneration is not well understood. C2C12 mouse myoblast migration and morphology were investigated using a triple-docking polydimethylsiloxane-based microfluidic device in which cells moved under gravity-driven laminar flow on uniform (=) collagen (CN=), fibronectin (FN=), or opposing gradients (CN-FN or FN-CN). In haptotaxis experiments, migration was faster on FN= than on CN=. At 10 h, cells were more elongated on FN-CN and migration was faster than on the CN-FN substrate. Net migration distance on FN-CN at 10 h was greater than on CN-FN, as cells rapidly entered the channel as a larger population (bulk-cell movement, wave 1). Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) stimulated rapid chemotaxis on FN= but not CN=, increasing migration speed at 10 h early in the channel at low HGF in a steep HGF gradient. HGF accelerated migration on FN= and bulk-cell movement on both uniform substrates. An HGF gradient also slowed cells in wave 2 moving on FN-CN, not CN-FN. Both opposing-gradient substrates affected the shape, speed, and net distance of migrating cells. Gradient and uniform configurations of HGF and substrate differentially influenced migration behavior. Therefore, haptotaxis substrate configuration potently modifies myoblast chemotaxis by HGF. Innovative microfluidic experiments advance our understanding of intricate complexities of myoblast migration. Findings can be leveraged to engineer muscle-tissue volumes for transplantation after serious injury. New analytical approaches may generate broader insights into cell migration.
Ca2+ dependency of limb muscle fiber contractile mechanics in young and older adults
Authors: Teigen Laura E. , Sundberg Christopher W. , Kelly Lauren J. , Hunter Sandra K. , Fitts Robert H.
Published: April 2020

Age-induced declines in skeletal muscle contractile function have been attributed to multiple cellular factors, including lower peak force (Po), decreased Ca2+ sensitivity, and reduced shortening velocity (Vo). However, changes in these cellular properties with aging remain unresolved, especially in older women, and the effect of submaximal Ca2+ on contractile function is unknown. Thus, we compared contractile properties of muscle fibers from 19 young (24 ± 3 yr; 8 women) and 21 older adults (77 ± 7 yr; 7 women) under maximal and submaximal Ca2+ and assessed the abundance of three proteins thought to influence Ca2+ sensitivity. Fast fiber cross-sectional area was ~44% larger in young (6,479 ± 2,487 µm2) compared with older adults (4,503 ± 2,071 µm2, P < 0.001), which corresponded with a greater absolute Po (young = 1.12 ± 0.43 mN; old = 0.79 ± 0.33 mN, P < 0.001). There were no differences in fast fiber size-specific Po, indicating the age-related decline in force was explained by differences in fiber size. Except for fast fiber size and absolute Po, no age or sex differences were observed in Ca2+ sensitivity, rate of force development (ktr), or Vo in either slow or fast fibers. Submaximal Ca2+ depressed ktr and Vo, but the effects were not altered by age in either sex. Contrary to rodent studies, regulatory light chain (RLC) and myosin binding protein-C abundance and RLC phosphorylation were unaltered by age or sex. These data suggest the age-associated reductions in contractile function are primarily due to the atrophy of fast fibers and that caution is warranted when extending results from rodent studies to humans.
Normal murine respiratory tract has its mucus concentrated in clouds based on the Muc5b mucin
Authors: Fakih Dalia , Rodriguez-Piñeiro Ana M. , Trillo-Muyo Sergio , Evans Christopher M. , Ermund Anna , Hansson Gunnar C.
Published: April 2020

The organization of the normal airway mucus system differs in small experimental animals from that in humans and large mammals. To address normal murine airway mucociliary clearance, Alcian blue-stained mucus transport was measured ex vivo on tracheal tissues of naïve C57BL/6, Muc5b−/−, Muc5ac−/−, and EGFP-tagged Muc5b reporter mice. Close to the larynx with a few submucosal glands, the mucus appeared as thick bundles. More distally in the trachea and in large bronchi, Alcian blue-stained mucus was organized in cloud-like formations based on the Muc5b mucin. On tilted tissue, the mucus clouds moved upward toward the larynx with an average velocity of 12 µm/s compared with 20 µm/s for beads not associated with clouds. In Muc5ac−/− mice, Muc5b formed mucus strands attached to the tissue surface, while in Muc5b−/− mice, Muc5ac had a more variable appearance. The normal mouse lung mucus thus appears as discontinuous clouds, clearly different from the stagnant mucus layer in diseased lungs.
A Universal Trajectory Planning Method for Automated Lane-Changing and Overtaking Maneuvers
Authors: Wang Ying , Wei Chong
Published: April 2020

Lane-changing and overtaking are conventional maneuvers on roads, and the reference trajectory is one of the prerequisites to execute these maneuvers. This study proposes a universal trajectory planning method for automated lane-changing and overtaking maneuvers, in which the trajectory is regarded as the combination of a path and its traffic state profiles. The two-dimensional path is represented by a suitable curve to connect the initial position with final position of the ego vehicle. Based on the planned path, its traffic state profiles are generated by solving a nonlinear mathematical optimization model. Moreover, the study discretizes the time horizon into several time intervals and determines the parameters to obtain the continuous and smooth profiles, which guarantees the safety and comfort of the ego vehicle. Finally, a series of simulation experiments are performed in the MATLAB platform and the results show the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed universal trajectory planning method.
A Cross-Knotted Suture Basket Technique for Large Nonmagnetic Intraocular Foreign Body Removal
Authors: Cao Jian , Chen Baihua , Li Yun
Published: April 2020

Purpose. To report a novel technique of cross-knotted suture basket and to test its effectiveness in large nonmagnetic intraocular foreign body (IOFB) removal. Methods. A 7/0 Vicryl suture was cut in half and cross-knotted, and four ends were introduced into a 23G needle to form a basket. Pig eyes were used to set up the IOFB model, and the effectiveness of the suture basket in the removal of large nonmagnetic intraocular foreign bodies was tested. Results. Several modifications can be made to adapt to different situations. For the materials (stone, metal, glass, and wood) and shapes (irregular, spherical, and rectangle) of large IOFB tested, the cross-knotted suture basket successfully removed all kinds of IOFBs. Conclusion. The suture basket technique provides an accessible, safe, and effective alternative in large nonmagnetic IOFB removal. It can be adapted and interchangedand also worth’s further clinical investigations.
Antidiabetic Potential of Marine Brown Algae—a Mini Review
Authors: Gunathilaka Thilina L. , Samarakoon Kalpa , Ranasinghe Pathmasiri , Peiris L. Dinithi C.
Published: April 2020

Marine algae are an important source of bioactive metabolites in drug development and nutraceuticals. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder and the third leading cause of death worldwide due to lifestyle changes associated with rapid urbanization. Due to the adverse side effects of currently available antidiabetic drugs, search for an effective natural-based antidiabetic drug is important to combat diabetes and its complications. Therefore, in lieu with herbal drug development, it is important to find the potential benefits of seaweeds for the management of type 2 diabetes as they are underexplored yet in Sri Lanka. Among the marine seaweeds, natural bioactive compounds are abundant in brown algae with potentials in application as active ingredients in drug leads and nutraceuticals. Bioactive secondary metabolites are derived from numerous biosynthetic pathways of marine algae which contribute to various chemical and biological properties. Phlorotannins present in marine brown algae exhibited antidiabetic activities through different mechanisms such as the inhibitory effect of enzyme targets mainly by inhibiting the enzymes such asα-amylase,α-glucosidase, angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE), aldose reductase, dipeptidyl peptidase-4, and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP 1B) enzyme. In addition, phlorotannins derived from brown algae have the ability to reduce diabetic complications. Hence, the present review focuses on the different antidiabetic mechanisms of secondary bioactive compounds present in marine brown algae.
Evidence‐Based Optimal Cutoff Values with the Validation of Criterion‐Referenced Standards for Sarcopenic Elderly Fitness Improvement
Authors: Jee Hyunseok , Park Soo Hyun , Park Saejong
Published: April 2020

This study provides a newly updated perspective of information on severely screened 21 previous studies of the various measurement methods for improving physical fitness and providing determined cutoff values from our reserved elderly human database. We aimed to provide scientific evidence‐based information regarding physical fitness standards for developing useful prognostics, promoting and maintaining health programs for sarcopenic elderly. 21 previous studies emphasizing criterion referenced standards and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analyses for improving physical fitness were screened. For predicting the prevalence of sarcopenia, the t‐test, logistic regression, linear regression, ROC curve analyses, and voluntary categorizations such as the twentieth or sixtieth percentile classification were used. Based on these scientific evidences, we determined cutoff values from our reserved DB and realized that 75 years for men and 70 years for women are the transitional period during which there are large declines in muscle and fat mass (p < 0.01), which reflects physical function tests (p < 0.01) in both genders. Using the six factors with ideal cutoff thresholds, an individual exercise program can be designed for alleviating symptoms of frailty caused by sarcopenia for the elderly.