bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of CNTFET-Based CCII Using gm/ID Technique for Low-Voltage and Low-Power Applications
Authors: Yasir Mohd , Alam Naushad
Published: September 2019

This paper introduces for the first time all the steps required in the optimal design of carbon nanotube field-effect transistor (CNTFET)-based second generation current conveyor (CCII) using transconductance-to-drain current ratio ([Formula: see text]) technique for low-voltage (LV) and low-power (LP) applications. The [Formula: see text] technique is a well-established methodology for CMOS analog IC design. However, the difference between CMOS and CNTFET is that CMOS has continuous width while the width of CNTFET is discrete and depends on different parameters like the number of tubes, pitch and diameter ([Formula: see text]) of the carbon nanotube (CNT). Therefore, there is a need for a design technique by which one can easily design analog circuits using CNTFETs. The CCII is based on two-stage op-amp and two inverters used as class AB amplifiers. The performance of CCII has been extensively examined in terms of DC, AC and transient responses of node voltages, branch currents and node impedances using HSPICE simulations. The CCII operates at [Formula: see text]0.5[Formula: see text]V and has 172[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]W of power consumption. The designed CCII provides very high 3-dB bandwidth (BW) for current gain ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GHz as well as voltage gain ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GHz.
Recursive constructions of k-normal polynomials using some rational transformations over finite fields
Authors: Kim Ryul , Son Hyang-Sim
Published: September 2019

Some results on the [Formula: see text]-normal elements and [Formula: see text]-normal polynomials over finite fields are given in the recent literature. In this paper, we show that a transformation [Formula: see text] can be used to produce an infinite sequence of irreducible polynomials over a finite field [Formula: see text] of characteristic [Formula: see text]. By iteration of this transformation, we construct the [Formula: see text]-normal polynomials of degree [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] starting from a suitable initial [Formula: see text]-normal polynomial of degree [Formula: see text]. We also construct an infinite sequence of [Formula: see text]-normal polynomials using a certain quadratic transformation over [Formula: see text].
Finite Element-Based Stochastic Nonlinear Progressive Failure Response of Piezo-Laminated Composite Plate with Elliptical Cutouts
Authors: Lal Achchhe , Kumar Rahul
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the second-order statistics of hygro-thermo-electrically-induced progressive failure in terms of first-ply failure load (FPFL) and last-ply failure load (LPFL) analysis for laminated composite material plate (LCMP) under out of plane mechanical loading with random system properties. Basic governing equation of nonlinear progressive failure analysis is based on shear deformation theory (higher order) with von-Karman nonlinear kinematics using Newton’s Raphson approach through Tsai–Wu failure criteria. The random input variables are assumed as uncorrelated type and are evaluated using second-order perturbation method (SOPT). Laminated composite plate with elliptical cutouts are subjected to uniformly distributed, point and hydrostatic load. The effect of boundary conditions, temperature variation, moisture content and voltage variations by utilizing piezoelectric layer position and various cutout shapes on the mean and corresponding covariance (COV) of FPFL and LPFL load are evaluated. Convergence of numerical analysis is performed, and results are validated with those available in literatures to check the efficiency of present methodology. It is observed that the presence of elliptical hole always causes an increase in the failure load of plates subjected to bending, even further increase for LPFL due to the reduction of stresses.
Recent Advances in Active Acoustic Metamaterials
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Pueh Lee Heow
Published: September 2019

Since its first demonstration of an acoustic metamaterial in the early 21st century, it is widely used for sound wave manipulation purposes in many applications such as aerospace, automotive, defense, marine, etc. However, the traditional acoustic metamaterials display acoustic characteristics for restricted use because of their fixed structures. For real-world applications, the active sound wave manipulation is desirable. In recent years, active acoustic metamaterials (AAMs) have garnered attention owing to their unique design and material characteristics, which result in various dynamic responses against the incoming sound wave. This paper aims to provide an overview of the fundamental concept of active metamaterials, describing the multiple tuning mechanisms and design strategies, and highlighting their potential applications. The current fabrication challenges and future outlook in this promising field are also discussed.
Modeling and simulation of railway vehicle vertical dynamic behavior by considering the effect of passenger-carbody coupling vibration
Authors: Yu Yuewei , Zhao Leilei , Zhou Changcheng
Published: September 2019

In order to reflect the vertical random vibration characteristics of railway vehicles more truly and effectively, this paper regards the human body as a single-degree-of-freedom system attached to the bottom of the carriage, and establishes a vertical dynamic model of railway vehicles by considering the influence of the coupling vibration effect between the passenger and the car body. The correctness of the model is verified by the real vehicle test. Then, the influence of the passengers on the vertical vibration characteristics of railway vehicles is analyzed, and the influence of the railway vehicle vibration on the vertical vibration characteristics of passengers is discussed in this paper. The research made in this paper can provide an effective model reference for the analysis of the vertical random vibration characteristics of railway vehicles and passengers, and for the optimization design of the suspension system parameters.
Multi-block electret-based mechanical antenna model for low frequency communication
Authors: Liang Bowen , Cui Yong , Song Xiao , Li Liangya , Wang Chen
Published: September 2019

In an LF/VLF transmission system, the performance of the antenna is of great importance to the entire system. Currently, the electret-based mechanical LF/VLF antenna uses mechanical movement to accelerate electret charges to produce LF/VLF electromagnetic waves, and the frequency of these electromagnetic waves is limited by the rotation speed of the actuating motor. Based on research that addressed the relationship between antenna structure and electromagnetic wave frequency, this paper — in order to increase the frequency of electromagnetic waves — alters the charge distribution mode of the mechanical antenna while keeping the motor’s rotational speed constant to realize an increase of transmission signal frequency. The effectiveness of this method was verified by model simulation.
Sector-Level Competition and Export: Evidence from Exporter Dynamics Database
Authors: Babuşçu Senol , Hazar Adalet , Solakoglu M. Nihat , Tunc Cengiz
Published: September 2019

We study the effect of sector-level competition on export by utilizing the Exporter Dynamics Database of the World Bank that provides sector-level competition measure along with destination-specific detailed export data. The results of the analysis show a nonlinear effect of sector-level competition on export. While at less competitive sectors, an increase in competition depresses export, at highly competitive sectors, an increase in competition generates a trade-promoting effect on export. The observed nonlinear effect is robust across sectors and countries. Therefore, productivity of peer firms could generate negative effect on a firm’s export performance contrary to the usual positive effect of a firm’s own productivity.
A Model and Multi-Mode Control of a Centrifugal Chiller System: A Computer Simulation Study
Authors: Li Songchun , Zaheeruddin M.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, a model of a water-cooled centrifugal chiller system is developed and its control performance is studied. The overall system consists of three control loops: (i) a compressor speed control; (ii) an inlet guide vane control and (iii) a condenser liquid-level control. The model is validated by comparing the simulation results with the experimental data under steady state conditions. The results match to within 10% accuracy. A multi-mode control strategy was designed to simulate the operation of the centrifugal chiller as it transitions between start-up, speed control mode, IGV control mode and shutdown mode during a typical day operation. COP of the chiller was studied by conducting simulation runs under a wide range of operating conditions. The results showing the coefficient of performance of the system at different cooling loads as a function of cooling water temperature under IGV control mode and compressor speed control mode are presented.
Application of Acrylate Latex Emulsion as the Binder for Coating Aluminum Substrate by Silica-Gel Powder
Authors: Dehnavi Yaser Gholami , Gholami Mohsen
Published: September 2019

The adsorbent coated exchangers are the main part of adsorption refrigeration systems. Although coated exchangers are commercially available, the coating technique and the binder used are seldom revealed and left as a challenge for researchers. Dip-coating is the most commonly used coating technique. However, the variety of binders used indicates that choosing the appropriate binder is still a matter of trial-and-error. A series of experiments were performed to introduce acrylic latex emulsion (ALE) and bitumen emulsion as the new binder for coating silica-gel powder on aluminum. The results indicate coats created by both emulsion binders are stable but the bitumen emulsion keeps its stability for about 10[Formula: see text]min after mixing with water and silica-gel powder. The effect of ALE binder and water concentrations on water vapor equilibrium and desorption kinetics was investigated. The outcomes indicated that the sample containing 0.8[Formula: see text]g water/g silica-gel, 0.08[Formula: see text]g ALE binder/g silica-gel shows the fastest desorption kinetic and the minimum capacity loss. The mechanical stability of this sample was evaluated by the shear test and the pull-off test. The measured values show that the prepared laminate withstands up to 27[Formula: see text]N/cm2 shear stress and 18[Formula: see text]N/cm2 tensile stress.
Can Post-Merger Integration Costs and Synergy Delays Explain Leverage Dynamics of Mergers?
Authors: Tsyplakov Sergey
Published: September 2019

The integration of two merging firms takes time to complete, and synergy gains from a merger can be captured only after the firms go through a costly and often lengthy post-merger integration period. This paper presents a dynamic model of capital structure for the target firm and the acquirer to examine the effects of the integration period on acquiring firms’ financing behavior around mergers. The model generates predictions that provide rational (non-behavioral) explanations for documented empirical evidence regarding leverage dynamics around mergers. When anticipating a longer and costlier integration period, acquiring firms strategically plan ahead by choosing a lower leverage prior to and at the time of the merger, and gradually lever up as the post-merger integration process nears completion. Deals with longer integration periods are financed with a larger fraction of equity. The model also implies that acquiring firms optimally time takeovers of underleveraged firms that experience negative shocks to their earnings.
Computational Models of Memory Search
Authors: Kahana Michael J.
Published: September 2019

The capacity to search memory for events learned in a particular context stands as one of the most remarkable feats of the human brain. How is memory search accomplished? First, I review the central ideas investigated by theorists developing models of memory. Then, I review select benchmark findings concerning memory search and analyze two influential computational approaches to modeling memory search: dual-store theory and retrieved context theory. Finally, I discuss the key theoretical ideas that have emerged from these modeling studies and the open questions that need to be answered by future research.
Depression's Unholy Trinity: Dysregulated Stress, Immunity, and the Microbiome
Authors: Cruz-Pereira Joana S. , Rea Kieran , Nolan Yvonne M. , O'Leary Olivia F. , Dinan Timothy G. , Cryan John F.
Published: September 2019

Depression remains one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders, with many patients not responding adequately to available treatments. Chronic or early-life stress is one of the key risk factors for depression. In addition, a growing body of data implicates chronic inflammation as a major player in depression pathogenesis. More recently, the gut microbiota has emerged as an important regulator of brain and behavior and also has been linked to depression. However, how this holy trinity of risk factors interact to maintain physiological homeostasis in the brain and body is not fully understood. In this review, we integrate the available data from animal and human studies on these three factors in the etiology and progression of depression. We also focus on the processes by which this microbiota-immune-stress matrix may influence centrally mediated events and on possible therapeutic interventions to correct imbalances in this triune.
Mapping Viral Susceptibility Loci in Mice
Authors: Kane Melissa , Golovkina Tatyana V.
Published: September 2019

Genetic alleles that contribute to enhanced susceptibility or resistance to viral infections and virally induced diseases have often been first identified in mice before humans due to the significant advantages of the murine system for genetic studies. Herein we review multiple discoveries that have revealed significant insights into virus-host interactions, all made using genetic mapping tools in mice. Factors that have been identified include innate and adaptive immunity genes that contribute to host defense against pathogenic viruses such as herpes viruses, flaviviruses, retroviruses, and coronaviruses. Understanding the genetic mechanisms that affect infectious disease outcomes will aid the development of personalized treatment and preventive strategies for pathogenic infections.
Ebola Virus: Pathogenesis and Countermeasure Development
Authors: Furuyama Wakako , Marzi Andrea
Published: September 2019

Since its discovery in 1976, Ebola virus (EBOV) has caused numerous outbreaks of fatal hemorrhagic disease in Africa. The biggest outbreak on record is the 2013–2016 epidemic in west Africa with almost 30,000 cases and over 11,000 fatalities, devastatingly affecting Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The epidemic highlighted the need for licensed drugs or vaccines to quickly combat the disease. While at the beginning of the epidemic no licensed countermeasures were available, several experimental drugs with preclinical efficacy were accelerated into human clinical trials and used to treat patients with Ebola virus disease (EVD) toward the end of the epidemic. In the same manner, vaccines with preclinical efficacy were administered primarily to known contacts of EVD patients on clinical trial protocols using a ring-vaccination strategy. In this review, we describe the pathogenesis of EBOV and summarize the current status of EBOV vaccine development and treatment of EVD.
Cancers in Humans: A Lifelong Search for Contributions of Infectious Agents, Autobiographic Notes
Authors: zur Hausen Harald
Published: September 2019

This review briefly covers periods of my early life; experiences during World War II; my school education; and my period as a medical student in Bonn, Hamburg, and Düsseldorf. Mainly emphasized is my scientific career after finishing my medical internship and periods as a postdoc at the Institute for Microbiology in Düsseldorf and the Virus Laboratories of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and as Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Virology in Würzburg, Germany. Subsequent appointment as chairman of the newly established Institute of Virology, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, in a similar position at the University of Freiburg, and then for 20 years as scientific director of the Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Heidelberg, are discussed, covering the scientific developments during these periods. The emeritus period since 2003 was particularly exciting, leading to the discovery of autonomously replicating plasmids, derived from specific bacteria, and their link to common human cancers (colon, breast, and prostate).
Forward genetic screen in human podocytes identifies diphthamide biosynthesis genes as regulators of adhesion
Authors: Cinà Davide P. , Ketela Troy , Brown Kevin R. , Chandrashekhar Megha , Mero Patricia , Li Chengjin , Onay Tuncer , Fu Yulong , Han Zhe , Saleem Moin , Moffat Jason , Quaggin Susan E.
Published: September 2019

Podocyte function is tightly linked to the complex organization of its cytoskeleton and adhesion to the underlying glomerular basement membrane. Adhesion of cultured podocytes to a variety of substrates is reported to correlate with podocyte health. To identify novel genes that are important for podocyte function, we designed an in vitro genetic screen based on podocyte adhesion to plates coated with either fibronectin or soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1)/Fc. A genome-scale pooled RNA interference screen on immortalized human podocytes identified 77 genes that increased adhesion to fibronectin, 101 genes that increased adhesion to sFLT1/Fc, and 44 genes that increased adhesion to both substrates when knocked down. Multiple shRNAs against diphthamide biosynthesis protein 1−4 (DPH1−DPH4) were top hits for increased adhesion. Immortalized human podocyte cells stably expressing these hairpins displayed increased adhesion to both substrates. We then used CRISPR-Cas9 to generate podocyte knockout cells for DPH1, DPH2, or DPH3, which also displayed increased adhesion to both fibronectin and sFLT1/Fc, as well as a spreading defect. Finally, we showed that Drosophila nephrocyte-specific knockdown of Dph1, Dph2, and Dph4 resulted in altered nephrocyte function. In summary, we report here a novel high-throughput method to identify genes important for podocyte function. Given the central role of podocyte adhesion as a marker of podocyte health, these data are a rich source of candidate regulators of glomerular disease.
High glucose reduces expression of podocin in cultured human podocytes by stimulating TRPC6
Authors: Lu Xiao-Yu , Liu Bing-Chen , Cao Yu-Ze , Song Chang , Su Hua , Chen Guangping , Klein Janet D. , Zhang Hui-Xue , Wang Li-Hua , Ma He-Ping
Published: September 2019

The transient receptor potential canonical 6 (TRPC6) channel and podocin are colocalized in the glomerular slit diaphragm as an important complex to maintain podocyte function. Gain of TRPC6 function and loss of podocin function induce podocyte injury. We have previously shown that high glucose induces apoptosis of podocytes by activating TRPC6; however, whether the activated TRPC6 can alter podocin expression remains unknown. Western blot analysis and confocal microscopy were used to examine both expression levels of TRPC6, podocin, and nephrin and morphological changes of podocytes in response to high glucose. High glucose increased the expression of TRPC6 but reduced the expression of podocin and nephrin, in both cultured human podocytes and type 1 diabetic rat kidneys. The decreased podocin was diminished in TRPC6 knockdown podocytes. High glucose elevated intracellular Ca2+in control podocytes but not in TRPC6 knockdown podocytes. High glucose also elevated the expression of a tight junction protein, zonula occludens-1, and induced the redistribution of zonula occludens-1 and loss of podocyte processes. These data together suggest that high glucose reduces protein levels of podocin by activating TRPC6 and induces morphological changes of cultured podocytes.
Therapeutic effects of inhibition of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on voiding dysfunction in mice with spinal cord injury
Authors: Wada Naoki , Shimizu Takahiro , Shimizu Nobutaka , Kurobe Masahiro , de Groat William C. , Tyagi Pradeep , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: September 2019

We investigated the involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in bladder and urethral dysfunction using spinal cord-injured mice. We evaluated bladder and urethral function of female mice with 4-wk spinal cord injury (SCI) by filling cystometry and electromyography (EMG) of the external urethral sphincter (EUS) under a conscious condition. Anti-BDNF antibodies (10 μg·kg−1·h−1) were administered in some mice for 1 wk before the evaluation. Bladder and spinal (L6−S1) BDNF protein levels were examined by ELISA. Transcript levels of transient receptor potential channels or acid-sensing ion channels (Asic) in L6−S1 dorsal root ganglia were evaluated by RT-PCR. Voided volume and voiding efficiency were significantly increased without any changes in nonvoiding contractions, and the duration of reduced EMG activity during the voiding phase was significantly prolonged in anti-BDNF antibody-treated SCI mice. Compared with spinal cord-intact mice, SCI mice showed increased concentrations of bladder and spinal BDNF. Anti-BDNF antibody treatment decreased bladder and spinal BDNF protein concentrations of SCI mice. Asic2 and Asic3 transcripts were significantly increased after SCI but decreased after anti-BDNF antibody administration. These results indicate that upregulated expression of bladder and spinal BDNF is involved in the emergence of inefficient voiding in SCI mice. Thus, BDNF-targeting treatment could be an effective modality for the treatment of voiding problems, including inefficient voiding and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia after SCI.
Progression of diabetic kidney disease in T2DN rats
Authors: Palygin Oleg , Spires Denisha , Levchenko Vladislav , Bohovyk Ruslan , Fedoriuk Mykhailo , Klemens Christine A. , Sykes Olga , Bukowy John D. , Cowley Allen W. , Lazar Jozef , Ilatovskaya Daria V. , Staruschenko Alexander
Published: September 2019

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the leading pathological causes of decreased renal function and progression to end-stage kidney failure. To explore and characterize age-related changes in DKD and associated glomerular damage, we used a rat model of type 2 diabetic nephropathy (T2DN) at 12 wk and older than 48 wk. We compared their disease progression with control nondiabetic Wistar and diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats. During the early stages of DKD, T2DN and GK animals revealed significant increases in blood glucose and kidney-to-body weight ratio. Both diabetic groups had significantly altered renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system function. Thereafter, during the later stages of disease progression, T2DN rats demonstrated a remarkable increase in renal damage compared with GK and Wistar rats, as indicated by renal hypertrophy, polyuria accompanied by a decrease in urine osmolarity, high cholesterol, a significant prevalence of medullary protein casts, and severe forms of glomerular injury. Urinary nephrin shedding indicated loss of the glomerular slit diaphragm, which also correlates with the dramatic elevation in albuminuria and loss of podocin staining in aged T2DN rats. Furthermore, we used scanning ion microscopy topographical analyses to detect and quantify the pathological remodeling in podocyte foot projections of isolated glomeruli from T2DN animals. In summary, T2DN rats developed renal and physiological abnormalities similar to clinical observations in human patients with DKD, including progressive glomerular damage and a significant decrease in renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system plasma levels, indicating these rats are an excellent model for studying the progression of renal damage in type 2 DKD.
Dietary Na+intake in healthy humans changes the urine extracellular vesicle prostasin abundance while the vesicle excretion rate, NCC, and ENaC are not altered
Authors: Zachar Rikke , Jensen Boye L. , Svenningsen Per
Published: September 2019

Low Na+intake activates aldosterone signaling, which increases renal Na+reabsorption through increased apical activity of the NaCl cotransporter (NCC) and the epithelial Na+channel (ENaC). Na+transporter proteins are excreted in urine as an integral part of cell-derived extracellular vesicles (uEVs). It was hypothesized that Na+transport protein levels in uEVs from healthy humans reflect their physiological regulation by aldosterone. Urine and plasma samples from 10 healthy men (median age: 22.8 yr) were collected after 5 days on a low-Na+(70 mmol/day) diet and 5 days on a high-Na+(250 mmol/day) diet. uEVs were isolated by ultracentrifugation and analyzed by Western blot analysis for EV markers (CD9, CD63, and ALIX), transport proteins (Na+-K+-ATPase α1-subunit, NCC, ENaC α- and γ-subunits, and aquaporin 2), and the ENaC-cleaving protease prostasin. Plasma renin and aldosterone concentrations increased during the low-Na+diet. uEV size and concentration were not different between diets by tunable resistive pulse sensing. EV markers ALIX and CD9 increased with the low-Na+diet, whereas CD63 and aquaporin 2 excretion were unchanged. Full-length ENaC γ-subunits were generally not detectable in uEVs, whereas ENaC α-subunits, NCC, and phosphorylated NCC were consistently detected but not changed by Na+intake. Prostasin increased with low Na+in uEVs. uEV excretion of transporters was not correlated with blood pressure, urinary Na+and K+excretion, plasma renin, or aldosterone. In conclusion, apical Na+transporter proteins and proteases were excreted in uEVs, and while the excretion rate and size of uEVs were not affected, EV markers and prostasin increased in response to the low-Na+diet.
A simple and highly purified method for isolation of glomeruli from the mouse kidney
Authors: Wang Honglian , Sheng Jingyi , He Huijun , Chen Xiaocui , Li Jinhong , Tan Ruizhi , Wang Li , Lan Hui-Yao
Published: September 2019

Highly purified mouse glomeruli are of great value for studying glomerulus-associated kidney diseases. Here, we developed a simple and rapid procedure for mouse glomerular isolation with large quantity and high purity based on the combination of size-selective sieving and differential adhesion techniques, which we termed the “differential adhesion method.” In this method, mouse renal cortices were minced and digested with collagenase. Glomeruli were disassociated from tubules by successive sieving through 105-, 75-, and 40-μm cell strainers. The retained glomeruli-rich preparation on the 40-μm strainer was rinsed into a cell culture dish to allow tubules to adhere quickly to the dish while leaving most glomeruli floating (termed “differential adhesion”). The floating glomerular fraction was then subjected to another wash through the 40-μm strainer followed by an additional differential adhesion step to obtain highly purified glomeruli with yields of 8,357 ± 575 and purity of 96.1 ± 1.8% from one adult C57BL/6 mouse. The purity of the isolated glomeruli was further confirmed by high expression of the podocyte marker nephrin without detectable tubular marker cadherin-16. Importantly, we also found that although both the quantity and purity of the isolated glomeruli by this and the established Dynabeads method were comparable, glomeruli isolated by the current method showed much less inflammatory stress in terms of proinflammatory cytokine expression than the Dynabeads method. In conclusion, we established a newly mouse glomerular isolation method that is simple, rapid, cost effective, and productive. It provides an advanced methodology for research into glomerulus-related kidney diseases in the mouse.
Functional implications of the sex differences in transporter abundance along the rat nephron: modeling and analysis
Authors: Hu Rui , McDonough Alicia A. , Layton Anita T.
Published: September 2019

The goal of the present study was to investigate the functional implications of sexual dimorphism in the pattern of transporters along the rodent nephron as reported by Veiras et al. ( J Am Soc Nephrol 28: 3504–3517, 2017). To do so, we developed sex-specific computational models of water and solute transport along the superficial nephrons from male and female rat kidneys. The models account for the sex differences in the abundance of apical and basolateral transporters, single nephron glomerular filtration rate, and tubular dimensions. Model simulations predict that ~70% and 60% of filtered Na+ is reabsorbed by the proximal tubule of male and female rat kidneys, respectively. The lower fractional Na+ reabsorption in female kidneys is due primarily to their smaller transport area, lower Na+/H+ exchanger activity, and lower claudin-2 abundance, culminating in significantly larger fractional delivery of water and Na+ to the downstream nephron segments in female kidneys. Conversely, the female distal nephron exhibits a higher abundance of key Na+ transporters, including Na+-K+-Cl− cotransporters, Na+-Cl− cotransporters, and epithelial Na+ channels. The higher abundance of transporters accounts for the enhanced water and Na+ transport along the female, relative to male, distal nephron, resulting in similar urine excretion between the sexes. Consequently, in response to a saline load, the Na+ load delivered distally is greater in female rats than male rats, overwhelming transport capacity and resulting in higher natriuresis in female rats.
Novel Excavation and Construction Method for a Deep Shaft Excavation in Ultrathick Aquifers
Authors: Cao Chengyong , Shi Chenghua , Liu Linghui , Liu Jianwen , Lei Mingfeng , Lin Yuexiang , Ye Yichao
Published: September 2019

Dewatering using the dewatering systems composed of diaphragm walls and pumping wells is commonly adopted for deep excavations that are undertaken in deep aquifers. However, dewatering can sometimes induce environmental problems, especially when diaphragm walls cannot effectively cut off the aquifers. This paper mainly presents an innovative excavation technique combining dewatering excavation and underwater excavation without drainage, which is employed for a deep shaft excavation in ultrathick aquifers (up to 60–70 m thick aquifer) in Fuzhou, China. The shaft excavation with the depth of 41.6 m below the ground surface (BGS) is divided into two major phases, that is, (1) the first part of the excavation (the depth of 23.6 m BGS) is conducted by the way of conventional dewatering and braced excavation (Phase I) and (2) the second excavation with the depth of 23.6 m to 41.6 m BGS is carried out by the novel underwater excavation without drainage technique (Phase II). Field monitoring results show that the ratios of maximum ground surface settlement δvm to the excavation depth He in this case ranged from 0.03% to 0.1%. Most of the ratios of maximum lateral wall deflection δhm to excavation depth He are less than 0.1%. All these results are lesser than that predicted by empirical methods, which also confirmed the applicability of this innovative excavation. Thus, this innovative solution can be applicable to other deep excavations that are undertaken in ultrathick aquifers, especially for the excavation of coarse sediments with high permeability.
Real‐Time Road Crack Mapping Using an Optimized Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Naddaf-Sh M-Mahdi , Hosseini SeyedSaeid , Zhang Jing , Brake Nicholas A. , Zargarzadeh Hassan
Published: September 2019

Pavement surveying and distress mapping is completed by roadway authorities to quantify the topical and structural damage levels for strategic preventative or rehabilitative action. The failure to time the preventative or rehabilitative action and control distress propagation can lead to severe structural and financial loss of the asset requiring complete reconstruction. Continuous and computer‐aided surveying measures not only can eliminate human error when analyzing, identifying, defining, and mapping pavement surface distresses, but also can provide a database of road damage patterns and their locations. The database can be used for timely road repairs to gain the maximum durability of the asphalt and the minimum cost of maintenance. This paper introduces an autonomous surveying scheme to collect, analyze, and map the image‐based distress data in real time. A descriptive approach is considered for identifying cracks from collected images using a convolutional neural network (CNN) that classifies several types of cracks. Typically, CNN‐based schemes require a relatively large processing power to detect desired objects in images in real time. However, the portability objective of this work requires to utilize low‐weight processing units. To that end, the CNN training was optimized by the Bayesian optimization algorithm (BOA) to achieve the maximum accuracy and minimum processing time with minimum neural network layers. First, a database consisting of a diverse population of crack distress types such as longitudinal, transverse, and alligator cracks, photographed at multiple angles, was prepared. Then, the database was used to train a CNN whose hyperparameters were optimized using BOA. Finally, a heuristic algorithm is introduced to process the CNN’s output and produce the crack map. The performance of the classifier and mapping algorithm is examined against still images and videos captured by a drone from cracked pavement. In both instances, the proposed CNN was able to classify the cracks with 97% accuracy. The mapping algorithm is able to map a diverse population of surface cracks patterns in real time at the speed of 11.1 km per hour.
Experimental Investigation on the Axially Loaded Performance of Notched Hexagonal Concrete‐Filled Steel Tube (CFST) Column
Authors: Liu Jing , Li Zhe , Ding Fa-Xing
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to investigate the static performance of notched hexagonal concrete‐filled steel tube (CFST) stub columns through axial loading. Notch length, notch location, and notch direction in 14 CFST stub columns were experimentally studied. Stress process, failure mechanism, and ultimate strength in the notched CFST columns were analyzed. Results show that notches in steel tubes can weaken the restraining effect of steel pipes on core concrete and induce a decrease in the ultimate strength of specimens. The failure mode of components is greatly affected by notch orientation. The notch is closed under axial compression in the horizontally notched specimen, and the slotting indicates outward buckling in the vertically notched specimen. Based on the test results, a method for calculating the ultimate strength of notched hexagonal CFST columns was established. This research encourages the extensive application of these structures in civil engineering.
Dietary Quantity and Diversity among Anemic Pregnant Women in Madura Island, Indonesia
Authors: Diana Rian , Khomsan Ali , Anwar Faisal , Christianti Dyan Fajar , Kusuma Rendra , Rachmayanti Riris Diana
Published: September 2019

Dietary diversity and quantity are important for pregnant women, particularly anemic pregnant women. This study aimed to analyze the association between dietary quantity and diversity among anemic pregnant women. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2017 at Madura Island, Indonesia, and involved 152 anemic pregnant women. Hemoglobin concentration was analyzed by the cyanmethemoglobin method. Dietary quantity was measured by the 2 × 24 h recall. Dietary diversity was determined by Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women of Reproductive Age (MDD-W). Spearman’s rank association was performed to analyze the association between dietary diversity and quantity. The median of hemoglobin concentration was 10.1 g/dL, and 57.2% pregnant women had mild anemia. Most of the pregnant women had low adequacy levels of energy and macro- and micronutrients (except for iron). More than half (57.9%) of anemic pregnant women had reached minimum dietary diversity. Family size (p=0.048) and gestational age (p=0.004) had negative associations with dietary diversity. Dietary diversity had positive associations with energy (p=0.029), protein (p=0.003), vitamin A (p=0.001), vitamin C (p=0.004), and zinc (p=0.015) adequacy levels. Dietary diversity had no significant association with calcium (p=0.078) and iron adequacy level (p=0.206). High prevalence of mild and moderate anemia was found among pregnant women in their third trimester. Anemic pregnant women already consumed food with minimum dietary diversity but did not meet dietary quantity. Increasing dietary quantity is a priority for anemic pregnant women.
Structural, Electronic, Lattice Dynamic, and Elastic Properties of SnTiO3 and PbTiO3 Using Density Functional Theory
Authors: Kuma Shiferaw , Woldemariam Menberu Mengesha
Published: September 2019

The structural, electronic, and elastic properties of tetragonal phase of SnTiO3 and PbTiO3 are investigated using first principle calculations. The unknown exchange-correlation functional is approximated with generalized gradient approximation (GGA) as implemented in pseudopotential plane wave approach. The convergence test of total energy with respect to energy cutoff and k-point sampling is preformed to ensure the accuracy of the calculations. The structural properties such as equilibrium lattice constant, equilibrium unit cell volume, bulk modulus, and its derivative are in reasonable agreement with the previous experimental and theoretical works. From elastic constants, mechanical parameters such as anisotropy factor A, shear modulus G, bulk modulus B, Young’s modulus E, and Poison’s ratio n are determined by using Voigt–Reuss–Hill average approximation. In addition, Debye temperature and longitudinal and transversal sound velocities are predicted from elastic constants. The electronic band structure and density of states of both compounds are obtained and compared with the available experimental as well as theoretical data. Born effective charge (BEC), phonon dispersion curve, and density of states are computed from functional perturbation theory (DFPT). Lastly, the spontaneous polarization is determined from the modern theory of polarization, and they are in agreement with the previous findings.
Development of a Prestressing CFRP Laminate Anchorage System and Bridge Strengthening Application
Authors: Li Fangyuan , Li Wenhao , Lu Shaohui , Shen Yin
Published: September 2019

For prestressed carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) tendon anchorage systems to become well established and used on a large scale, practical requirements for structure strengthening may be met by performing a relatively easy anchorage technique using prestressing CFRP laminates. From testing performed on a clip-type CFRP laminate anchorage system developed in our research group, it was revealed that this system could achieve the anchorage efficiency and the relaxation met the requirement of specification. Furthermore, the relevant indices of the anchorage system met the prestressed system standards. A test on the load-carrying capacity of a full-scale model beam demonstrated that the load-carrying capacity of the beam increased by more than 60% after it was strengthened with the anchorage system. The prestressing CFRP laminates and the bridge structure deformed and bore stress as a composite and exhibited excellent operating performance when working together.
Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: Modified Two-Lobe Technique versus Traditional Three-Lobe Technique—A Randomized Study
Authors: Xu Congcong , Xu Zhen , Lin Caixiu , Feng Sheng , Sun Mingwei , Chen Jijun , Zheng Yichun
Published: September 2019

Background. Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is considered the standard endoscopic treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but traditional HoLEP surgery will cause some postoperative complications. This study was attempted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of modified two-lobe technique versus traditional three-lobe technique of HoLEP focusing mainly on incidences of retrograde ejaculation (RE) and urinary incontinence (UI). Methods. From March 2014 to February 2017, 191 men with BPH were randomly assigned to two groups: 97 underwent modified two-lobe technique; 94 underwent traditional three-lobe technique. All patients were followed up for 12 months. Primary outcomes were incidences of RE and UI, and secondary outcomes were international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QOL), maximal urine flowing rate (MFR), and residual urine among the studied patients. Results. Compared with the traditional technique, patients in the modified group had a statistically significant decrease in frequency of UI (1.03% vs 8.51%, p=0.036) and RE in the 6th month (33.33% vs 63.64%, p=0.030) and 12th month (13.33% vs 50%, p=0.034) and a significant increase in ejaculatory volume in the 6th month (p=0.050) and 12th month (p=0.003). Besides, the modified HoLEP was more beneficial to patients according to the change of QoL score at 1 month (p=0.002), 3 months (p=0.004), 6 months (p=0.026), and 12 months (p=0.015). Conclusions. The modified two-lobe technology of HoLEP reduced the incidence of RE and UI, which improved the quality of life of the patients after surgery compared to the traditional three-lobe technology. This trial is registered with ChiCTR1800018553.
Control Scheme for a Fractional‐Order Chaotic Genesio‐Tesi Model
Authors: Xu Changjin , Li Peiluan , Liao Maoxin , Liu Zixin , Xiao Qimei , Yuan Shuai
Published: September 2019

In this paper, based on the earlier research, a new fractional‐order chaotic Genesio‐Tesi model is established. The chaotic phenomenon of the fractional‐order chaotic Genesio‐Tesi model is controlled by designing two suitable time‐delayed feedback controllers. With the aid of Laplace transform, we obtain the characteristic equation of the controlled chaotic Genesio‐Tesi model. Then by regarding the time delay as the bifurcation parameter and analyzing the characteristic equation, some new sufficient criteria to guarantee the stability and the existence of Hopf bifurcation for the controlled fractional‐order chaotic Genesio‐Tesi model are derived. The research shows that when time delay remains in some interval, the equilibrium point of the controlled chaotic Genesio‐Tesi model is stable and a Hopf bifurcation will happen when the time delay crosses a critical value. The effect of the time delay on the stability and the existence of Hopf bifurcation for the controlled fractional‐order chaotic Genesio‐Tesi model is shown. At last, computer simulations check the rationalization of the obtained theoretical prediction. The derived key results in this paper play an important role in controlling the chaotic behavior of many other differential chaotic systems.
Calcium Fluxes in Work-Related Muscle Disorder: Implications from a Rat Model
Authors: Hadrevi J. , Barbe M. F. , Ørtenblad N. , Frandsen U. , Boyle E. , Lazar S. , Sjøgaard G. , Søgaard K.
Published: September 2019

Introduction. Ca2+ regulatory excitation-contraction coupling properties are key topics of interest in the development of work-related muscle myalgia and may constitute an underlying cause of muscle pain and loss of force generating capacity. Method. A well-established rat model of high repetition high force (HRHF) work was used to investigate if such exposure leads to an increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and changes in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicle Ca2+ uptake and release rates. Result. Six weeks exposure of rats to HRHF increased indicators of fatigue, pain behaviors, and [Ca2+]i, the latter implied by around 50–100% increases in pCam, as well as in the Ca2+ handling proteins RyR1 and Casq1 accompanied by an ∼10% increased SR Ca2+ uptake rate in extensor and flexor muscles compared to those of control rats. This demonstrated a work-related altered myocellular Ca2+ regulation, SR Ca2+ handling, and SR protein expression. Discussion. These disturbances may mirror intracellular changes in early stages of human work-related myalgic muscle. Increased uptake of Ca2+ into the SR may reflect an early adaptation to avoid a sustained detrimental increase in [Ca2+]i similar to the previous findings of deteriorated Ca2+ regulation and impaired function in fatigued human muscle.
Effect of Thermal Cycling on Operational Characteristics and Lifetime Prediction of Space Pulse Tube Refrigerator
Authors: Wan Fubin , Chen Xun , Jiang Zhenhua , Wu Yinong
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the operation status and results of ground thermal cycling test of pulse tube refrigerators (PTRs) for space application. Firstly, a thermal cycling degradation model was proposed by considering two physical mechanisms: contamination and fatigue damage. Then, a thermal cycling test scheme of two types of PTRs was designed and performed to demonstrate their long lifetime and high thermal stability. Two type A PTRs with cooling capacity of 1W@60 K and two type B PTRs with cooling capacity of 5W@80 K were continuously operated for about two years in a simulated vacuum thermal cycling environment. Effects of heat rejection temperature variation on thermal stability and dynamic performance of the PTRs were investigated. Furthermore, the thermal cycling degradation model was validated with the actual thermal cycling test data. Finally, the predicted pseudo‐failure lifetime was acquired via experimental data and degradation model. Moreover, the estimated reliability of PTRs was obtained through using the Weibull distribution. The proposed thermal cycling test scheme and innovative lifetime prediction and reliability estimation method provide a quick and accurate approach for the cooler manufacturer to assess the lifetime and reliability of the space PTRs.
Tailoring the Localization of Carbon Nanotubes and Ammonium Polyphosphate in Linear Low-Density Polyethylene/Nylon-6 Blends for Optimizing Their Flame Retardancy
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Lu Chang , Gao Xi-ping , Yao Da-hu , He Yu-xin
Published: September 2019

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was used to improve the flame retardancy of linear low-density polyethylene/nylon-6 (LLDPE/PA6) blends. It was observed that APP or CNTs tended to be dispersed in the PA6 phase of the blends when all components were melt-blended together. CNTs dispersed in the PA6 phase caused the decrease of flame retardancy. Different processing methods were used to tailor the localization of APP and CNTs in the blends. The results showed that the localization of CNTs or APP strongly influenced the flame retardancy of blends. APP-incorporated CNTs had antagonism in blends with APP localized in the LLDPE phase and CNTs in the PA6 or LLDPE phases. A synergism between APP and CNTs was exhibited only in blend with the localization of APP in the PA6 phase and CNTs in the LLDPE phase. SEM observation showed that the residual char layer in blends with poor flame retardancy was either discontinuous or continuous but porous. A continuous and compact-residue char layer was observed in blends with excellent flame retardancy. Different morphologies of the residual char layer could be attributed to the difference of residual char mass and network structure.