bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam after intramuscular and oral administration of a single dose to American flamingos (Phoenicopertus ruber)
Authors: Boonstra Jennifer L. , Cox Sherry K. , Martin-Jimenez Tomas
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE To determine pharmacokinetics after IM and oral administration of a single dose of meloxicam to American flamingos (Phoenicopertus ruber).

ANIMALS 14 adult flamingos.

PROCEDURES Flamingos were allocated to 2 groups. Each group received a dose of meloxicam (1 mg/kg) by the IM or oral route. After a 4-week washout period, groups received meloxicam via the other route of administration. Plasma meloxicam concentrations were measured with high-performance liquid chromatography. Data for each bird were analyzed. Estimated values of selected pharmacokinetic parameters were compared by use of a linear mixed-effects ANOVA. Pooled concentration-time profiles for each route of administration were analyzed to examine the influence of body weight on pharmacokinetics.

RESULTS Mean ± SD maximum plasma concentration was 1.00 ± 0.88 μg/mL after oral administration. This was approximately 15% of the mean maximum plasma concentration of 5.50 ± 2.86 μg/mL after IM administration. Mean time to maximum plasma concentration was 1.33 ± 1.32 hours after oral administration and 0.28 ± 0.17 hours after IM administration. Mean half-life of the terminal phase after oral administration (3.83 ± 2.64 hours) was approximately twice that after IM administration (1.83 ± 1.22 hours).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that the extent and rate of meloxicam absorption were less after oral administration than after IM administration. Intramuscular administration resulted in a short period during which mean plasma concentrations met or exceeded reported efficacious analgesic concentrations in other species, whereas oral administration did not. These results suggested that higher doses may be required for oral administration.
Effect of cold storage on immediate graft function in an experimental model of renal transplantation in cats
Authors: Csomos Rebecca A. , Hardie Robert J. , Schmiedt Chad W. , Delaney Fern A. , McAnulty Jonathan F.
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of cold storage (CS) on immediate posttransplantation function of renal autografts in cats.

ANIMALS 15 healthy 1-year-old cats.

PROCEDURES Cats were assigned to 2 groups and underwent autotransplantation of the left kidney followed by nephrectomy of the right kidney. The left kidney was autotransplanted either immediately (IT group; n = 6) or after being flushed with a cold sucrose phosphate solution and stored on ice while the implant site was prepared (CS group; 9). Serum creatinine and BUN concentrations were monitored daily and autografts were ultrasonographically examined intermittently for 14 days after surgery.

RESULTS Mean duration of CS was 24 minutes for the CS group. Posttransplantation serum creatinine and BUN concentrations for the CS group had lower peak values, returned to the respective reference ranges quicker, and were generally significantly lower than those for the IT group. Mean posttransplantation autograft size for the CS group was smaller than that for the IT group.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that immediate posttransplantation function of renal autografts following a short period of CS was better than that of renal autografts that did not undergo CS, which suggested CS protected grafts from ischemic injury and may decrease perioperative complications, speed recovery, and improve the long-term outcome for cats with renal transplants.

IMPACT FOR HUMAN MEDICINE Cats metabolize immunosuppressive drugs in a manner similar to humans; therefore, renal transplantation in cats may serve as a desirable model for investigating the effects of renal transplantation in human patients.
Cardiorespiratory function in Thoroughbreds during locomotion on a treadmill at an incline or decline
Authors: Ohmura Hajime , Mukai Kazutaka , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Aida Hiroko , Jones James H.
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE To determine cardiorespiratory responses of Thoroughbreds to uphill and downhill locomotion on a treadmill at identical gradients.

ANIMALS 5 highly trained Thoroughbred geldings.

PROCEDURES Thoroughbreds were exercised for 2-minute intervals on a treadmill at 1.7, 3.5, 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0 m/s at a 4% incline, 0% incline (horizontal plane), and 4% decline in random order on different days. Stride frequency, stride length, and cardiopulmonary and O2-transport variables were measured and analyzed by means of repeated-measures ANOVA and Holm-Šidák pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS Horses completed all treadmill exercises with identical stride frequency and stride length. At identical uphill speeds, they had higher (vs horizontal) mass-specific O2 consumption (mean increase, 49%) and CO2 production (mean increase, 47%), cardiac output (mean increase, 21%), heart rate (mean increase, 11%), and Paco2 (mean increase, 1.7 mm Hg), and lower Pao2 (mean decrease, 5.8 mm Hg) and arterial O2 saturation (mean decrease, 1.0%); tidal volume was not higher. Downhill locomotion (vs horizontal) reduced mass-specific O2 consumption (mean decrease, 24%), CO2 production (mean decrease, 23%), and cardiac output (mean decrease, 9%). Absolute energy cost during uphill locomotion increased linearly with speed at approximately twice the rate at which it decreased during downhill locomotion.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings suggested that for Thoroughbreds, downhill locomotion resulted in a lower energy cost than did horizontal or uphill locomotion and that this cost changed with speed. Whether eccentric training induces skeletal muscle changes in horses similar to those in humans remains to be determined.
Prevalence of carbapenem resistant bacterial strains isolated from different clinical samples: study from a tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Karn Sitesh , Pant Narayan Dutt , Neupane Sanjeev , Khatiwada Saroj , Basnyat Shaila , Shrestha Basudha
Published: February 2017

Background Carbapenems are considered as drugs of choice for the treatment of the infections caused by drug resistant bacteria. However, in the recent years the prevalence of carbapenem resistant gram negative bacteria has increased significantly. The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of carbapenemase producing gram negative bacteria among all the clinical isolates.Material and methods A total of 3246 non-repeated, different clinical specimens from patients attending Kathmandu Model Hospital, from July 2013 to January 2014 were cultured and the gram negative bacterial isolates obtained were subjected to identification with the help of colony morphology, Gram’s stain and conventional biochemical tests. Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique was used to perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Phenotypic confirmation of carbapenemase and AmpC beta-lactamase production was done by combined disc method.Results 890 samples showed the growth of bacterial pathogens. Out of total 769 gram negative bacteria, 57 were found to be carbapenem resistant. Of which, highest number (47) of the isolates were found to be metallo-β lactamase (MBL) producers. Six bacterial isolates produced both (Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase) KPC and MBL, whereas only one isolate was found to be positive for both MBL and AmpC. Three bacterial strains showed carbapenem resistance due to over production of AmpC β-lactamase.Conclusion Among carbapenem resistant gram negative bacteria, MBL was present as the major enzyme responsible for resisting carbapenem antibiotics.
Anselm Kiefer and the Sign of the Sublime
Authors: Stables Wayne
Published: February 2017

This article aims to show what happens when certain of Anselm Kiefer’s images are brought under the sign of the sublime – when those works are read as instances that confront us with the discursive limits of language and the transience of the present. Beginning with a consideration of the nature of negativity, the article then relates this thinking to questions surrounding historical experience, repetition, and memorialization. Taking thinkers such as Hegel, Benjamin, Adorno, Freud, and Lyotard as guides, it suggests that Kiefer’s work drives towards a specifically ruinous kind of negativity that, always at odds with its symbolic representation, forms at once an expression of and a counterforce to myth.
Effect of source-sink manipulation on yield and related yield components in cassava, Manihot esculenta Crantz
Authors: Amarullah - , Indradewa D , Yudono P , Sunarminto BH Dan
Published: February 2017

The distribution of nutrients and assimilates in different organs and tissues is in a constant state of flux throughout the growth and development of a plant. At key stages during the life cycle, profound changes occur, and perhaps one of the most critical of these is during tubers filling. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of sources- sink manipulation to related yield and yield components of cassava cultivars Singgah. Experiment manipulation source using number of branches cropping (S) which consists of three levels i.e. S1: 1 branch planting; S2: 2 branches planting; S3: 3 branches planting and manipulation at the bottom of that manipulation of the bottom with the model sliced the bottom of the cuttings (L) which consists of three levels i.e. L1: Sliced flat cuttings; L2: Sliced oblique cuttings; L3: Sliced cuttings of two sloping sides. In the cassava plant there is a relationship between the source and the bottom. Manipulation treatment plant cassava with two branches crop resources, if interaction the bottom with the model manipulation cuttings incision flat base capable of increasing biomass as well as the amount of cassava tuber crop plant varieties Singgah. The diameter of the tubers if interaction with wedge base model of cuttings oblique slices one general interaction and manipulation of two branches crop with all models of the base of the cuttings slice significantly improves weight of tuber crop.Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 6 (2): 69-76, December, 2016
Antioxidant Activity of SOD and Catalase Conjugated with Nanocrystalline Ceria
Authors: Gil Dmitry , Rodriguez Jeannette , Ward Brendan , Vertegel Alexey , Ivanov Vladimir , Reukov Vladimir
Published: February 2017

Interactions of nanoparticles with biological matter—both somatically and in nature—draw scientists’ attention. Nanoparticulate systems are believed to be our saviors, acting as versatile drug delivery vehicles. However, they can also cause life-threatening bodily damage. One of the most important properties of nanocrystalline cerium dioxide is its antioxidant activity, which decreases the abundance of reactive oxygen species during inflammation. In this paper, we report on synergistic effects of inorganic cerium oxide (IV) nanoparticles conjugated with the antioxidative enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase on scavenging oxygen and nitrogen radicals.
The Suzuki–Miyaura Cross-Coupling as a Versatile Tool for Peptide Diversification and Cyclization
Authors: Willemse Tom , Schepens Wim , Vlijmen Herman , Maes Bert , Ballet Steven
Published: February 2017

The (site-selective) derivatization of amino acids and peptides represents an attractive field with potential applications in the establishment of structure–activity relationships and labeling of bioactive compounds. In this respect, bioorthogonal cross-coupling reactions provide valuable means for ready access to peptide analogues with diversified structure and function. Due to the complex and chiral nature of peptides, mild reaction conditions are preferred; hence, a suitable cross-coupling reaction is required for the chemical modification of these challenging substrates. The Suzuki reaction, involving organoboron species, is appropriate given the stability and environmentally benign nature of these reactants and their amenability to be applied in (partial) aqueous reaction conditions, an expected requirement upon the derivatization of peptides. Concerning the halogenated reaction partner, residues bearing halogen moieties can either be introduced directly as halogenated amino acids during solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) or genetically encoded into larger proteins. A reversed approach building in boron in the peptidic backbone is also possible. Furthermore, based on this complementarity, cyclic peptides can be prepared by halogenation, and borylation of two amino acid side chains present within the same peptidic substrate. Here, the Suzuki–Miyaura reaction is a tool to induce the desired cyclization. In this review, we discuss diverse amino acid and peptide-based applications explored by means of this extremely versatile cross-coupling reaction. With the advent of peptide-based drugs, versatile bioorthogonal conversions on these substrates have become highly valuable.
Electrochemical Study of Trametes Versicolor Laccase Compatibility to Different Polyphenolic Substrates
Authors: Sýs Milan , Metelka Radovan , Frangu Arbër , Vytřas Karel , Arbneshi Tahir
Published: February 2017

The aim of this electrochemical study was to ascertain which position of hydroxy groups on a benzene ring provides electroactive products after enzymatic oxidation by laccase originating from the Trametes versicolor mushroom, exhibiting intense redox signals that are exploitable for their amperometric determination. The electrochemical properties of phenol together with all isomers of benzenediol and cresol at the bare carbon paste electrode (CPE) and CPE modified with enzyme laccase (CPE/Laccase) were investigated using cyclic voltammetry at various scan rates. Comparison of resulting redox signals and their differences confirmed the suitability of classes of polyphenolic compounds as substrates for Trametes versicolor laccase and their potential use as suitable biological components in the development of amperometric enzyme biosensors for the determination of such species. The feasibility of the proposed approach was verified by electrochemical assays of the enzymatic oxidation of polyphenolic analogues of simple phenols, e.g., gentisic acid, caffeic acid, resveratrol, and others.
Long-Term Climate Trends and Extreme Events in Northern Fennoscandia (1914–2013)
Authors: Kivinen Sonja , Rasmus Sirpa , Jylhä Kirsti , Laapas Mikko
Published: February 2017

We studied climate trends and the occurrence of rare and extreme temperature and precipitation events in northern Fennoscandia in 1914–2013. Weather data were derived from nine observation stations located in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Russia. The results showed that spring and autumn temperatures and to a lesser extent summer temperatures increased significantly in the study region, the observed changes being the greatest for daily minimum temperatures. The number of frost days declined both in spring and autumn. Rarely cold winter, spring, summer and autumn seasons had a low occurrence and rarely warm spring and autumn seasons a high occurrence during the last 20-year interval (1994–2013), compared to the other 20-year intervals. That period was also characterized by a low number of days with extremely low temperature in all seasons (4–9% of all extremely cold days) and a high number of April and October days with extremely high temperature (36–42% of all extremely warm days). A tendency of exceptionally high daily precipitation sums to grow even higher towards the end of the study period was also observed. To summarize, the results indicate a shortening of the cold season in northern Fennoscandia. Furthermore, the results suggest significant declines in extremely cold climate events in all seasons and increases in extremely warm climate events particularly in spring and autumn seasons.
Single Crystal Growth of Multiferroic Double Perovskites: Yb2CoMnO6 and Lu2CoMnO6
Authors: Choi Hwan , Moon Jae , Kim Jong , Choi Young , Lee Nara
Published: February 2017

We report on the growth of multiferroic Yb2CoMnO6 and Lu2CoMnO6 single crystals which were synthesized by the flux method with Bi2O3. Yb2CoMnO6 and Lu2CoMnO6 crystallize in a double-perovskite structure with a monoclinic P21/n space group. Bulk magnetization measurements of both specimens revealed strong magnetic anisotropy and metamagnetic transitions. We observed a dielectric anomaly perpendicular to the c axis. The strongly coupled magnetic and dielectric states resulted in the variation of both the dielectric constant and the magnetization by applying magnetic fields, offering an efficient approach to accomplish intrinsically coupled functionality in multiferroics.
Lysosomal Storage Disorders and Malignancy
Authors: Pastores Gregory , Hughes Derralynn
Published: February 2017

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are infrequent to rare conditions caused by mutations that lead to a disruption in the usual sequential degradation of macromolecules or their transit within the cell. Gaucher disease (GD), a lipidosis, is among the most common LSD, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 40,000 among the Caucasian, non-Jewish population. Studies have indicated an increased frequency of polyclonal and monoclonal gammopathy among patients with GD. It has been shown that two major sphingolipids that accumulate in GD, namely, β-glucosylceramide 22:0 (βGL1-22) and glucosylsphingosine (LGL1), can be recognized by a distinct subset of CD1d-restricted human and murine type II natural killer T (NKT) cells. Investigations undertaken in an affected mouse model revealed βGL1-22- and LGL1-specific NKT cells were present and constitutively promoted the expression of a T-follicular helper (TFH) phenotype; injection of these lipids led to downstream induction of germinal center B cells, hypergammaglobulinemia, and the production of antilipid antibodies. Subsequent studies have found clonal immunoglobulin in 33% of sporadic human monoclonal gammopathies is also specific for the lysolipids LGL1 and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). Furthermore, substrate reduction ameliorated GD-associated gammopathy in mice. It had been hypothesized that chronic antigenic stimulation by the abnormal lipid storage and associated immune dysregulation may be the underlying mechanism for the increased incidence of monoclonal and polyclonal gammopathies, as well as an increased incidence of multiple myeloma in patients with GD. Current observations support this proposition and illustrate the value of investigations into rare diseases, which as ‘experiments of nature’ may provide insights into conditions found in the general population that continue to remain incompletely understood.
Numerical Analysis of Shell-and-Tube Type Latent Thermal Energy Storage Performance with Different Arrangements of Circular Fins
Authors: Kuboth Sebastian , König-Haagen Andreas , Brüggemann Dieter
Published: February 2017

Latent thermal energy storage (LTS) systems are versatile due to their high-energy storage density within a small temperature range. In shell-and-tube type storage systems fins can be used in order to achieve enhanced charging and discharging power. Typically, circular fins are evenly distributed over the length of the heat exchanger pipe. However, it is yet to be proven that this allocation is the most suitable for every kind of system and application. Consequently, within this paper, a simulation model was developed in order to examine the effect of different fin distributions on the performance of shell-and-tube type latent thermal storage units at discharge. The model was set up in MATLAB Simulink R2015b (The MathWorks, Inc., Natick, MA, USA) based on the enthalpy method and validated by a reference model designed in ANSYS Fluent 15.0 (ANSYS, Inc., Canonsburg, PA, USA). The fin density of the heat exchanger pipe was increased towards the pipe outlet. This concentration of fins was implemented linearly, exponentially or suddenly with the total number of fins remaining constant during the variation of fin allocations. Results show that there is an influence of fin allocation on storage performance. However, the average storage performance at total discharge only increased by three percent with the best allocation compared to an equidistant arrangement.
A Refined Self-Tuning Filter-Based Instantaneous Power Theory Algorithm for Indirect Current Controlled Three-Level Inverter-Based Shunt Active Power Filters under Non-sinusoidal Source Voltage Conditions
Authors: Hoon Yap , Mohd Radzi Mohd , Hassan Mohd , Mailah Nashiren
Published: February 2017

In this paper, a refined reference current generation algorithm based on instantaneous power (pq) theory is proposed, for operation of an indirect current controlled (ICC) three-level neutral-point diode clamped (NPC) inverter-based shunt active power filter (SAPF) under non-sinusoidal source voltage conditions. SAPF is recognized as one of the most effective solutions to current harmonics due to its flexibility in dealing with various power system conditions. As for its controller, pq theory has widely been applied to generate the desired reference current due to its simple implementation features. However, the conventional dependency on self-tuning filter (STF) in generating reference current has significantly limited mitigation performance of SAPF. Besides, the conventional STF-based pq theory algorithm is still considered to possess needless features which increase computational complexity. Furthermore, the conventional algorithm is mostly designed to suit operation of direct current controlled (DCC) SAPF which is incapable of handling switching ripples problems, thereby leading to inefficient mitigation performance. Therefore, three main improvements are performed which include replacement of STF with mathematical-based fundamental real power identifier, removal of redundant features, and generation of sinusoidal reference current. To validate effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed algorithm, simulation work in MATLAB-Simulink and laboratory test utilizing a TMS320F28335 digital signal processor (DSP) are performed. Both simulation and experimental findings demonstrate superiority of the proposed algorithm over the conventional algorithm.
Forest Carbon Sequestration Subsidy and Carbon Tax as Part of China’s Forestry Policies
Authors: Liu Jinhua , Wu Fengping
Published: February 2017

Forestry is an effective strategy for climate change mitigation. However, forestry activities not only sequester carbon but also release CO2. It is therefore important to formulate carbon subsidy and carbon taxation policies on the basis of the price of carbon. In this study, a forestry-based Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model was built by using input-output data of China in 2014 to construct a Social Accounting Matrix (SAM). The model simulates different carbon price scenarios and was used to explore the effects of carbon subsidy and carbon taxation policies on the forestry economy. The main results can be summarized as follows: When the carbon price is low, the implementation of the policy increases forestry output and causes forest product prices to rise. When the carbon price is high, the carbon tax will produce an inhibitory effect, and output and prices will decline. With the constant rise of the carbon price, value addition will decrease, with flow to other industries. For the carbon sequestration policy, there is a reasonable carbon price range bound. In light of these results, relevant policies are proposed.
Mechanical, Swelling, and Structural Properties of Mechanically Tough Clay-Sodium Polyacrylate Blend Hydrogels
Authors: Takeno Hiroyuki , Kimura Yuri , Nakamura Wataru
Published: February 2017

We investigated the mechanical, swelling, and structural properties of mechanically tough clay/sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) hydrogels prepared by simple mixing. The gels had large swelling ratios, reflecting the characteristics of the constituent polymer. The swelling ratios initially increased with the increase of the swelling time, and then attained maximum values. Afterwards, they decreased with an increase of the swelling time and finally became constant. An increase in the clay concentration lead to a decrease in the swelling ratios, whereas an increase in the PAAS concentration lead to an increase in the swelling ratios. Tensile measurements indicated that the toughness for clay/PAAS (Mw = 3.50 × 106) gels was several hundred times larger than that of clay/PAAS (Mw = 5.07 × 105) gels, i.e., the use of ultra-high molecular weight PAAS is essential for fabricating mechanically tough clay/PAAS blend hydrogels. Synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) results showed that the SAXS intensity measured at small scattering angles decreased with an increase in the clay concentration, indicating that the interparticle interactions were more repulsive at higher concentrations. The decrease of the scattering intensity at high clay concentrations was larger for the clay/PAAS (Mw = 5.07 × 105) gel system than for the clay/PAAS (Mw = 3.50 × 106) gel system.
Increased Risk of Stroke in Patients of Concussion: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Shih-Wei , Huang Liang-Chung , Chung Wu-Fu , Chang Hsuan-Kan , Wu Jau-Ching , Chen Li-Fu , Chen Yu-Chun , Huang Wen-Cheng , Cheng Henrich , Lo Su-Shun
Published: February 2017

Long-term morbidities can develop after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some studies have suggested that the risk of stroke is higher after TBI, but the association between concussion and stroke remains unclear. Using a national cohort, the authors analyzed the incidence of both hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes in patients with previous concussion. A representative cohort of approximately one million people was followed up for four years. Patients with new-onset concussion were identified (n = 13,652) as the concussion group. Subsequently, the incidence rates of later stroke events in the concussion group were compared to a sex-, age- and propensity score–matched comparison group (n = 13,652). The overall incidence rate of stroke in the concussion group was higher than that of the comparison group (9.63 versus 6.52 per 1000 person-years, p < 0.001). Significantly higher stroke risk was observed in the concussion group than in the comparison group (crude hazard ratio 1.48, p < 0.001; adjusted HR 1.65, p < 0.001). In the concussion group, the cumulative incidence rates of both ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke were higher than those of the comparison group (8.9% vs. 5.8% and 2.7% vs. 1.6%, respectively, both p < 0.001). Concussion is an independent risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Prevention and monitoring strategies of stroke are therefore suggested for patients who have experienced concussion.
Financial Stress and Smoking within a Large Sample of Socially Disadvantaged Australians
Authors: Guillaumier Ashleigh , Twyman Laura , Paul Christine , Siahpush Mohammad , Palazzi Kerrin , Bonevski Billie
Published: February 2017

Financial stress is associated with fewer quit attempts and higher relapse rates. This study aimed to compare financial stress among smokers, ex-smokers and never smokers in a highly socioeconomically disadvantaged sample. The study also aimed to determine whether specific indicators of financial stress differ according to smoking status. Adult clients seeking welfare assistance from two Social and Community Service Organisation sites in New South Wales, Australia, were invited to complete a cross-sectional survey between March 2012 and December 2013. Responses to a financial stress scale, smoking status and demographics were collected. Linear and logistic regression modelling was used to examine associations between smoking status and financial stress. A total of 1463 participants completed the survey. Current smokers had significantly higher total financial stress scores than ex-smokers and non-smokers respectively. Current smokers also had higher odds of severe financial stress indicators, such as going without meals (Odds Ratio = 2.2 and 2.0), than both non-smokers and ex-smokers. Even among a highly socioeconomically disadvantaged sample with high levels of financial stress, smoking status further exacerbates experiences of deprivation. Given the relationship between financial stress, socioeconomic disadvantage and difficulty quitting, it is important to provide enhanced cessation support to smokers experiencing financial stress.
Toxicity Research of PM2.5 Compositions In Vitro
Authors: Jia Yi-Yang , Wang Qi , Liu Te
Published: February 2017

According to the published literature, we surmise that particulate matter (PM) concentration, individually, may be less important than components in explaining health effects. PM2.5 (aerodynamic diameter <2.5 μm) had similar cytotoxicity (e.g., cell viability reduction, oxidative damage, inflammatory effects and genetic toxicity) on different types of cells. The studies of cells are readily available for detailed mechanistic investigations, which is more appropriate for learning and comparing the mechanism caused by single or mixed ingredients coating a carbon core. No review exists that holistically examines the evidence from all components-based in vitro studies. We reviewed published studies that focus on the cytotoxicity of normal PM2.5. Those studies suggested that the toxicity of mixed compositions differs greatly from the single ingredients in mixed components and the target cells. The cytotoxic responses caused by PM2.5 components have not shown a consistent association with clear, specific health effects. The results may be beneficial for providing new targets for drugs for the treatment of PM2.5-related diseases.
Companion Animals and Child/Adolescent Development: A Systematic Review of the Evidence
Authors: Purewal Rebecca , Christley Robert , Kordas Katarzyna , Joinson Carol , Meints Kerstin , Gee Nancy , Westgarth Carri
Published: February 2017

Childhood and adolescence are important developmental phases which influence health and well-being across the life span. Social relationships are fundamental to child and adolescent development; yet studies have been limited to children’s relationships with other humans. This paper provides an evidence review for the potential associations between pet ownership and emotional; behavioural; cognitive; educational and social developmental outcomes. As the field is in the early stages; a broad set of inclusion criteria was applied. A systematic search of databases and grey literature sources found twenty-two studies meeting selection criteria. The review found evidence for an association between pet ownership and a wide range of emotional health benefits from childhood pet ownership; particularly for self-esteem and loneliness. The findings regarding childhood anxiety and depression were inconclusive. Studies also showed evidence of an association between pet ownership and educational and cognitive benefits; for example, in perspective-taking abilities and intellectual development. Evidence on behavioural development was unclear due to a lack of high quality research. Studies on pet ownership and social development provided evidence for an association with increased social competence; social networks; social interaction and social play behaviour. Overall, pet ownership and the significance of children’s bonds with companion animals have been underexplored; there is a shortage of high quality and longitudinal studies in all outcomes. Prospective studies that control for a wide range of confounders are required.
An Improved DBSCAN Algorithm to Detect Stops in Individual Trajectories
Authors: Luo Ting , Zheng Xinwei , Xu Guangluan , Fu Kun , Ren Wenjuan
Published: February 2017

With the increasing use of mobile GPS (global positioning system) devices, a large volume of trajectory data on users can be produced. In most existing work, trajectories are usually divided into a set of stops and moves. In trajectories, stops represent the most important and meaningful part of the trajectory; there are many data mining methods to extract these locations. DBSCAN (density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise) is a classical density-based algorithm used to find the high-density areas in space, and different derivative methods of this algorithm have been proposed to find the stops in trajectories. However, most of these methods required a manually-set threshold, such as the speed threshold, for each feature variable. In our research, we first defined our new concept of move ability. Second, by introducing the theory of data fields and by taking our new concept of move ability into consideration, we constructed a new, comprehensive, hybrid feature–based, density measurement method which considers temporal and spatial properties. Finally, an improved DBSCAN algorithm was proposed using our new density measurement method. In the Experimental Section, the effectiveness and efficiency of our method is validated against real datasets. When comparing our algorithm with the classical density-based clustering algorithms, our experimental results show the efficiency of the proposed method.
Linking Neighborhood Characteristics and Drug-Related Police Interventions: A Bayesian Spatial Analysis
Authors: Marco Miriam , Gracia Enrique , López-Quílez Antonio
Published: February 2017

This paper aimed to analyze the spatial distribution of drug-related police interventions and the neighborhood characteristics influencing these spatial patterns. To this end, police officers ranked each census block group in Valencia, Spain (N = 552), providing an index of drug-related police interventions. Data from the City Statistics Office and observational variables were used to analyze neighborhood characteristics. Distance to the police station was used as the control variable. A Bayesian ecological analysis was performed with a spatial beta regression model. Results indicated that high physical decay, low socioeconomic status, and high immigrant concentration were associated with high levels of drug-related police interventions after adjustment for distance to the police station. Results illustrate the importance of a spatial approach to understanding crime.
The Acute Inflammatory Response to Absorbed Collagen Sponge Is Not Enhanced by BMP-2
Authors: Huang Hairong , Wismeijer Daniel , Hunziker Ernst , Wu Gang
Published: February 2017

Absorbed collagen sponge (ACS)/bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) are widely used in clinical practise for bone regeneration. However, the application of this product was found to be associated with a significant pro-inflammatory response, particularly in the early phase after implantation. This study aimed to clarify if the pro-inflammatory activities, associated with BMP-2 added to ACS, were related to the physical state of the carrier itself, i.e., a wet or a highly dehydrated state of the ACS, to the local degree of vascularisation and/or to local biomechanical factors. ACS (0.8 cm diameter)/BMP-2 were implanted subcutaneously in the back of 12 eight-week-old Sprague Dawley rats. Two days after surgery, the implanted materials were retrieved and analysed histologically and histomorphometrically. The acute inflammatory response following implantation of ACS was dependent of neither the presence or absence of BMP-2 nor the degree of vascularization in the surrounding tissue nor the hydration state (wet versus dry) of the ACS material at the time of implantation. Differential micro biomechanical factors operating at the implantation site appeared to have an influence on the thickness of inflammation. We conclude that the degree of the early inflammatory response of the ACS/BMP-2 may be associated with the physical and chemical properties of the carrier material itself.
From Lysosomal Storage Diseases to NKT Cell Activation and Back
Authors: Pereira Cátia , Ribeiro Helena , Macedo M.
Published: February 2017

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are inherited metabolic disorders characterized by the accumulation of different types of substrates in the lysosome. With a multisystemic involvement, LSDs often present a very broad clinical spectrum. In many LSDs, alterations of the immune system were described. Special emphasis was given to Natural Killer T (NKT) cells, a population of lipid-specific T cells that is activated by lipid antigens bound to CD1d (cluster of differentiation 1 d) molecules at the surface of antigen-presenting cells. These cells have important functions in cancer, infection, and autoimmunity and were altered in a variety of LSDs’ mouse models. In some cases, the observed decrease was attributed to defects in either lipid antigen availability, trafficking, processing, or loading in CD1d. Here, we review the current knowledge about NKT cells in the context of LSDs, including the alterations detected, the proposed mechanisms to explain these defects, and the relevance of these findings for disease pathology. Furthermore, the effect of enzyme replacement therapy on NKT cells is also discussed.
High Levels of Serum Ubiquitin and Proteasome in a Case of HLA-B27 Uveitis
Authors: Rossi Settimio , Gesualdo Carlo , Maisto Rosa , Trotta Maria , Di Carluccio Nadia , Brigida Annalisa , Di Iorio Valentina , Testa Francesco , Simonelli Francesca , D’Amico Michele , Di Filippo Clara
Published: February 2017

In this paper, the authors describe a case of high serum levels of ubiquitin and proteasome in a woman under an acute attack of autoimmune uveitis. The woman was 52 years old, diagnosed as positive for the Human leukocyte antigen-B27 gene, and came to our observation in January 2013 claiming a severe uveitis attack that involved the right eye. During the acute attack of uveitis, this woman had normal serum biochemical parameters but higher levels of serum ubiquitin and proteasome 20S subunit, with respect to a healthy volunteer matched for age and sex. These levels correlated well with the clinical score attributed to uveitis. After the patient was admitted to therapy, she received oral prednisone in a de-escalation protocol (doses from 50 to 5 mg/day) for four weeks. Following this therapy, she had an expected reduction of clinical signs and score for uveitis, but concomitantly she had a reduction of the serum levels of ubiquitin, poliubiquitinated proteins (MAb-FK1) and proteasome 20S activity. Therefore, a role for ubiquitin and proteasome in the development of human autoimmune uveitis has been hypothesized.
Structural Basis of Native CXCL7 Monomer Binding to CXCR2 Receptor N-Domain and Glycosaminoglycan Heparin
Authors: Brown Aaron , Sepuru Krishna , Rajarathnam Krishna
Published: February 2017

CXCL7, a chemokine highly expressed in platelets, orchestrates neutrophil recruitment during thrombosis and related pathophysiological processes by interacting with CXCR2 receptor and sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG). CXCL7 exists as monomers and dimers, and dimerization (~50 μM) and CXCR2 binding (~10 nM) constants indicate that CXCL7 is a potent agonist as a monomer. Currently, nothing is known regarding the structural basis by which receptor and GAG interactions mediate CXCL7 function. Using solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, we characterized the binding of CXCL7 monomer to the CXCR2 N-terminal domain (CXCR2Nd) that constitutes a critical docking site and to GAG heparin. We found that CXCR2Nd binds a hydrophobic groove and that ionic interactions also play a role in mediating binding. Heparin binds a set of contiguous basic residues indicating a prominent role for ionic interactions. Modeling studies reveal that the binding interface is dynamic and that GAG adopts different binding geometries. Most importantly, several residues involved in GAG binding are also involved in receptor interactions, suggesting that GAG-bound monomer cannot activate the receptor. Further, this is the first study that describes the structural basis of receptor and GAG interactions of a native monomer of the neutrophil-activating chemokine family.
What Can We Learn from “Not Much More than g”?
Authors: Murphy Kevin
Published: February 2017

A series of papers showing that measures of general cognitive ability predicted performance on the job and in training and that measures of specific cognitive abilities rarely made an incremental contribution to prediction led to a premature decline in research on the roles of specific abilities in the workplace. Lessons learned from this research include the importance of choosing the right general cognitive measures and variables, the relative roles of prediction vs. understanding and the need for a wide range of criteria when evaluating the contribution of specific skills such as complex problem solving. In particular, research published since the “not much more than g” era suggests that distinguishing between fluid and crystallized intelligence is important for understanding the development and the contribution of complex problem solving.
Antimicrobial Bamboo Materials Functionalized with ZnO and Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhang Junyi , Zhang Bo , Chen Xiufang , Mi Bingbing , Wei Penglian , Fei Benhua , Mu Xindong
Published: February 2017

Bamboo materials with improved antibacterial performance based on ZnO and graphene oxide (GO) were fabricated by vacuum impregnation and hydrothermal strategies. The Zn2+ ions and GO nanosheets were firstly infiltrated into the bamboo structure, followed by dehydration and crystallization upon hydrothermal treatment, leading to the formation of ZnO/GO nanocomposites anchored in the bulk bamboo. The bamboo composites were characterized by several techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which confirmed the existence of GO and ZnO in the composites. Antibacterial performances of bamboo samples were evaluated by the bacteriostatic circle method. The introduction of ZnO/GO nanocomposites into bamboo yielded ZnO/GO/bamboo materials which exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli, Gram-negative) and Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis, Gram-positive) bacteria and high thermal stability. The antimicrobial bamboo would be expected to be a promising material for the application in the furniture, decoration, and construction industry.
Molecular Spins in the Context of Quantum Technologies
Authors: Ghirri Alberto , Candini Andrea , Affronte Marco
Published: February 2017

Molecular spins have shown interesting quantum features, which make them potential candidates for the implementation of quantum information processing. New challenges related to possible applications in the broader class of quantum technologies are currently under discussion. Here, we revisit some key features trying to learn something from experiences in related fields.
Peierls and Spin-Peierls Instabilities in the Per2[M(mnt)2] Series of One-Dimensional Organic Conductors; Experimental Realization of a 1D Kondo Lattice for M = Pd, Ni and Pt
Authors: Pouget Jean-Paul , Foury-Leylekian Pascale , Almeida Manuel
Published: February 2017

We consider structural instabilities exhibited by the one-dimensional (1D) (arene)2X family of organic conductors in relation with their electronic and magnetic properties. With a charge transfer of one electron to each anion X, these salts exhibit a quarter-filled (hole) conduction band located on donor stacks. Compounds built with donors such as fluorenthene, perylene derivatives and anions X such as PF6 or AsF6 exhibit a high temperature (TP ~ 170 K) conventional Peierls transition that is preceded by a sizeable regime of 1D 2kF charge density wave fluctuations (kF is the Fermi wave vector of the 1D electron gas located on Per stack). Surprisingly, and probably because of the presence of a multi-sheet warped Fermi surface, the critical temperature of the Peierls transition is considerably reduced in the perylene series α-(Per)2[M(mnt)2] where X is the dithiolate molecule with M = Au, Cu, Co and Fe. Special attention will be devoted to physical properties of α-(Per)2[M(mnt)2] salts with M = Pt, Pd and Ni which incorporate segregated S = 1/2 1D antiferromagnetic (AF) dithiolate stacks coexisting with 1D metallic Per stacks. We analyze conjointly the structural and magnetic properties of these salts in relation with the 1D spin-Peierls (SP) instability located on the dithiolate stacks. We show that the SP instability of Pd and Ni derivatives occurs in the classical (adiabatic) limit while the SP instability of the Pt derivative occurs in the quantum (anti-adiabatic) limit. Furthermore, we show that in Pd and Ni derivatives 1st neighbor direct and frustrated 2nd neighbor indirect (through a fine tuning with the mediated 2kF RKKY coupling interaction on Per stacks) AF interactions add their contribution to the SP instability to stabilize a singlet-triplet gap. Our analysis of the data show unambiguously that magnetic α-(Per)2[M(mnt)2] salts exhibit the physics expected for a two chain Kondo lattice.
Laplace Transform Homotopy Perturbation Method for the Two Dimensional Black Scholes Model with European Call Option
Authors: Trachoo Kamonchat , Sawangtong Wannika , Sawangtong Panumart
Published: February 2017

The Black Scholes model is a well-known and useful mathematical model in ﬁnancial markets. In this paper, the two-dimensional Black Scholes equation with European call option is studied. The explicit solution of this problem is carried out in the form of a Mellin–Ross function by using Laplace transform homotopy perturbation method. The solution example demonstrates that the proposed scheme is effective.
Mechanism of Enhancing Extraction of Vanadium from Stone Coal by Roasting with MgO
Authors: Chen Fang , Zhang Yimin , Huang Jing , Liu Tao , Xue Nannan
Published: February 2017

In this paper, the extraction of vanadium from stone coal by roasting with MgO and leaching with sulfuric acid has been investigated, and the mechanism analysis of stone coal roasting with MgO was studied. The results indicated that under the conditions that the mass fraction of the particles with grain size of 0–0.074 mm in raw ore was 75%, the roasting temperature was 500 °C, the roasting time was 1 h, MgO addition was 3 wt %, the sulfuric acid concentration was 20 vol %, the liquid-to-solid ratio was 1.5 mL/g, the leaching temperature was 95 °C, and leaching time was 2 h, resulting in a vanadium leaching efficiency of 86.63%, which increased by 7.73% compared with that of blank roasting. The mechanism analysis showed that the degree of calcite decomposition was low and, thus, magnesium vanadate was more easily formed than calcium vanadate below 500 °C. Moreover, magnesium vanadate was easier to dissolve than calcium vanadate during the sulfuric acid leaching process. Thus, the vanadium leaching efficiency was enhanced by using MgO as a roasting additive below 500 °C. Additionally, at high temperature the formation of tremolite would consume calcium oxide produced from the decomposition of calcite, thus, the formation of calcium vanadate was hindered, and V2O5 would react with MgO to form magnesium vanadate. Therefore, the vanadium leaching efficiency of roasting with MgO was higher than that of blank roasting at high temperature.