bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The reliability of achromatic displays is island‐dependent in nocturnal Storm Petrels
Authors: Soravia Camilla , Aguado‐Giménez Felipe , Avilés Jesús M.
Published: August 2019

Nocturnal birds rely on achromatic visual signals to assess rivals and potential mates, but variation in the expression of these displays has been understudied. Here we use UV‐visible reflectance spectrometry to study colour variation and the potential signalling function of the dark brown chest and white rump plumage – a colour pattern conspicuously exhibited during twilight courtship displays – in nocturnal Mediterranean Storm Petrels Hydrobates pelagicus melitensis from three islands with different exposures to predation and human disturbance. Human activity may increase perceived predation risk and thus affect activity budgets and the physiological stress response, with possible consequences on the relationship between individual body condition and plumage coloration. We found that chest and especially rump feathers reflected in the ultraviolet (UV) but there was no evidence of sexual dichromatism. However, we found support for a male‐specific signalling role of plumage coloration. Indeed, chest yellow–red chroma and rump UV chroma were positively related to body condition in males, but only in the two islands representing the poorer environmental conditions. Therefore, environmental variability can potentially modify the reliability of achromatic displays, with possible consequences on sexual selection patterns in a nocturnal bird.
Synthesis of meso‐macro alumina using yeast cells as a bio‐template and optimization using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Al‐dujaili Mohammed Assi Ahmed , Saud Amir Najah , Aswad Mohsin Abbas
Published: August 2019

Meso‐Macro porous alumina was fabricated using yeast cells as a pore‐forming agent. Alumina powder synthesis was achieved by a low cost process (recrystallisation of alum).The effect of the pore forming agent on the true porosity, bulk density and thermal conductivity of porous alumina was characterized. The results show that the true porosity increased with the increasing addition of yeast cells. The bulk density and thermal conductivity at room temperature decreased with the increasing yeast addition. A genetic algorithm method was used to minimize the thermal conductivity of the macro‐porous alumina based on the amount of yeast cells used, the sintering temperature, and the hold time. The genetic algorithm found that the best thermal conductivity achievable was equal to 0.152 Watt/m. °C at 20wt% concentration of yeast, a sintering temperature of 1230°C and 1.5 hours of soaking time. The experimental value was 0.14 Watt/m. °C and the slight variance between these values were postulated to be due to experimental error in the measurements.
Instantaneous depolarization of T cells via dopamine receptors, and inhibition of activated T cells of Psoriasis patients and inflamed human skin, by D1‐like receptor agonist: Fenoldopam
Authors: Keren Aviad , Gilhar Amos , Ullmann Yehuda , Zlotkin‐Frušić Marina , Soroka Yoram , Domb Abraham J. , Levite Mia
Published: August 2019

Activated T cells are pathological in various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases including Psoriasis, and also in graft rejection and graft‐versus‐host‐disease. In these pathological conditions, selective silencing of activated T cells through physiological receptors they express remains a clinical challenge. In our previous studies we found that activation of dopamine receptors (DRs) in resting human T cells activates these cells, and induces by itself many beneficial T cell functions. In this study, we found that normal human T cells express all types of DRs, and that expression of D1R, D4R and D5R increases profoundly after T cell receptor (TCR) activation. Interestingly, DR agonists shift the membrane potential (Vm) of both resting and activated human T cells, and induces instantaneous T cell depolarization within 15 seconds only. Thus, activation of DRs in T cells depolarize these immune cells, alike activation of DRs in neural cells. The skin of Psoriasis patients contains 20‐fold more D1R+ T cells than healthy human skin. In line with that, 25‐fold more D1R+ T cells are present in Psoriasis humanized mouse model. Highly selective D1‐like receptor agonists, primarily Fenoldopam (Corlopam) – a D1‐like receptor agonist and a drug used in hypertension, induced the following suppressive effects on activated T cells of Psoriasis patients: reduced chemotactic migration towards the chemokine SDF‐1/CXCL12; reduced dramatically the secretion of eight cytokines: tumor necrosis factor‐α, interferon‐γ, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐10; and reduced three T cell activation proteins/markers: CD69, CD28 and IL‐2. Next, we invented a novel topical/dermal Fenoldopam formulation, allowing it to be spread on, and providing prolonged and regulated release in, diseased skin. Our novel topical/dermal Fenoldopam: reduced secretion of the eight cytokines by activated human T cells; reduced IL‐1β and IL‐6 secretion by human lipopolysaccharide‐inflamed skin; eliminated preferentially >90% of live and large/proliferating human T cells. Together, our findings show for the first time that both resting and activated T cells are depolarized instantaneously via DRs, and that targeting D1‐like receptors in activated T cells and inflamed human skin by Fenoldopam, in Psoriasis, and potentially in other T cell‐mediated diseases, could be therapeutic. Validation in vivo is required.
New insight into design of highly ordered calcium silicate hydrate with graphene oxide
Authors: Yao Shun , Zou Fubing , Hu Chuanlin , Wang Fazhou , Hu Shuguang
Published: August 2019

Calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) is the main hydration product of cement and the most important binder that plays a pivotal role in the mechanical properties of concrete. However, one of the major drawbacks of C–S–H is its high brittleness and low flexural strength due to its disordered structure at the nano‐ and micro‐scales. Therefore, this study adopts graphene oxide (GO) to modify the structure of C–S–H, and investigates the effects of synthetic methods on the structure of C–S–H–GO composites. In this study, the highly ordered C–S–H–GO composite is successfully synthesized and exhibits itself the high toughness. Moreover, the formation mechanism of the highly ordered C–S–H–GO composite is explored and discussed, which provides a new insight into the design of high‐toughness cement‐based materials.
Low pressure dependent elasticity of porous ceramics
Authors: Karunarathne Ashoka , Jodha Kartikeya S. , Priyadarshan Gautam , Griggs Jason A. , Gladden Joseph R.
Published: August 2019

The primary goal of this study was to characterize the influence of the pore‐saturated gas media and their physical properties on the elasticity of porous ceramic materials. Resonant ultrasound spectroscopic measurements were performed on test specimens of alumina with ~40% porosity, zirconia with ~48% porosity, and sintered fully dense zirconia to determine the hydrostatic pressure‐dependent macroscopic elasticity. Here, we report the variation of elasticity of porous and full dense samples over approximately five orders of magnitude (800‐0.02 psi) in absolute pressure. The time evolution of mechanical equilibrium of the porous materials at low pressure and high‐temperature conditions will also be discussed.
Effect of H2 treatment in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis‐associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: Terasaki Yasuhiro , Terasaki Mika , Kanazawa Satoshi , Kokuho Nariaki , Urushiyama Hirokazu , Kajimoto Yusuke , Kunugi Shinobu , Maruyama Motoyo , Akimoto Toshio , Miura Yoko , Igarashi Tsutomu , Ohsawa Ikuroh , Shimizu Akira
Published: August 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)‐associated interstitial lung disease (ILD), a primary cause of mortality in patients with RA, has limited treatment options. A previously established RA model in D1CC transgenic mice aberrantly expressed major histocompatibility complex class II genes in joints, developing collagen II‐induced polyarthritis and anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies and interstitial pneumonitis, similar to those in humans. Molecular hydrogen (H2) is an efficient antioxidant that permeates cell membranes and alleviates the reactive oxygen species‐induced injury implicated in RA pathogenesis. We used D1CC mice to analyse chronic lung fibrosis development and evaluate H2 treatment effects. We injected D1CC mice with type II collagen and supplied them with H2‐rich or control water until analysis. Increased serum surfactant protein D values and lung densities images were observed 10 months after injection. Inflammation was patchy within the perilymphatic stromal area, with increased 8‐hydroxy‐2ʹ‐deoxyguanosine‐positive cell numbers and tumour necrosis factor‐α, BAX, transforming growth factor‐β, interleukin‐6 and soluble collagen levels in the lungs. Inflammatory and fibrotic changes developed diffusely within the perilymphatic stromal area, as observed in humans. H2 treatment decreased these effects in the lungs. Thus, this model is valuable for studying the effects of H2 treatment and chronic interstitial pneumonia pathophysiology in humans. H2 appears to protect against RA‐ILD by alleviating oxidative stress.
Breeding for improved resistance to Edwardsiella ictaluri in striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus): Quantitative genetic parameters
Authors: Vu Nguyen Thanh , Sang Nguyen Van , Trong Trinh Quoc , Duy Nguyen Huynh , Dang Nguyen Thi , Nguyen Nguyen Hong
Published: August 2019

Bacillary necrosis of Pangasius (BNP), caused by Edwardsiella ictaluri, is one of the most devastating diseases in striped catfish farming. To date, quantitative genetic inheritance of BNP resistance is not known in striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus. The main aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for BNP resistance in a breeding population of striped catfish undergoing four generations of selection for high growth. Specifically, the study examined whether BNP resistance is heritable to enable family selection and whether genetic improvement for enhanced BNP resistance may have detrimental effects on growth and survival rate. To test these hypotheses, 720 full‐ and half‐sib families were challenged with E. ictaluri pathogen using injection and cohabitation methods over four years, from 2010 to 2012 and 2015. In total, the data included 398,234 animals in the pedigree, from which 18,849 animals had disease challenge test records and 39,103 siblings had growth performance. Both univariate and bivariate sire–dam linear and threshold mixed models were used to estimate (co)variance components for BNP resistance, survivals and growth traits. The estimates of heritability for the BNP resistance recorded as death or survival were low regardless of models used (0.10–0.16), whereas survival time (days post‐challenge test) showed moderate heritability (0.35). The survival rate during hapa rearing had medium heritability (0.33–0.52). The genetic correlations of BNP resistance with body weight and survival were all positive (0.03–0.53), suggesting that selection of increased BNP resistance may have positive impacts on growth and survival traits, and these traits could be easily improved simultaneously in the selective breeding programme for striped catfish.
Culturally Competent Parenting: A Test of Web‐Based Training for Transracial Foster and Adoptive Parents
Authors: Montgomery Jordan E.
Published: August 2019

This study tested a web‐based parenting course called FosterParentCollege.com (FPC) Culturally Competent Parenting (CCP) for transracial foster and adoptive parents. Research indicates that transracial children, whose parents practice culturally competent parenting, have positive outcomes. A mixed methods pretest posttest treatment and control group design were implemented to determine if there was a difference in parent scores on openness to cultural receptivity after completing the course in comparison to parents assigned the control group. Cultural receptivity is defined as the effort that parents are willing to put forth to learn about CCP. Additionally, parents who participated in the treatment course completed 2‐month follow‐up interviews on self‐reported application of techniques. Results of the study showed that parents enrolled in the treatment course had significantly higher scores for openness to cultural receptivity after completing the course than before. Themes identified in follow‐up interviews indicated parents' efforts to learn more about CCP.
Cerebral cysts of ependymal or ventricular origin in a juvenile rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) with neurologic signs
Authors: Pecoraro Heidi L. , Haertel Andrew J. , Cullin Cassandra , Prongay Kamm , Lewis Anne D. , Ducore Rebecca
Published: August 2019

Naturally occurring neurologic disease in non‐human primates may be attributable to a wide‐range of causes, including infectious agents, congenital or acquired malformations, degenerative diseases, and, rarely, neoplasia. We report a case of ataxia and paresis in a juvenile rhesus macaque with ependymal‐lined cerebral cysts.
On Being Able to Walk Twenty Metres: The Introduction of Personal Independence Payments
Authors: Alldridge Peter
Published: August 2019

The Welfare Reform Act 2012 introduced Personal Independence Payments (PIPs), and in particular the enhanced‐rate mobility component (ERMC), with its twenty‐metre test to replace the more flexible fifty‐metre test for the higher‐rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA). The government objective was to reduce the number of recipients of the benefits, which carry eligibility to the Motability scheme. Rather than modify DLA so as to cure its perceived faults, the government decided to ignore the past and start afresh. The article examines the implementation of PIP, including the treatment of the application of the author, and shows that the norms according to which DWP operates the benefit, are radically at variance with those in the Social Security (Personal Independence Payment) Regulations 2013. These developments have been central to the creation of a ‘hostile environment’ for people with disabilities.
The Rise of Maternal Grandmother Child Care in Urban Chinese Families
Authors: Zhang Cong , Fong Vanessa L. , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Way Niobe , Chen Xinyin , Lu Zuhong
Published: August 2019

Objective: This study explores the transformation of patrilineality in grandparents' child care in China, which was traditionally oriented almost exclusively toward caring for sons' children.

Background: Since China's 1949 revolution, grandparent child care has undergone rapid transformation, shifting from strongly patrilateral to bilateral or even matrilateral, as maternal grandmothers have become far more involved in child care than in previous generations.

Method: This study investigates the choices of maternal versus paternal grandmother child care in 77 urban families that are drawn from a larger random sample of a mixed‐method longitudinal study in Nanjing, China. Content analysis is used to analyze semistructured interviews with the parents from these families.

Results: The interviews reveal that parents are turning away from the traditional Chinese tendency to favor paternal grandparent child care, instead basing child‐care decisions on availability, caregiving qualifications, and the nature of grandmothers' relationship with adult children and their spouses, all of which encourage a greater child‐care role for maternal grandmothers than in previous generations. Further examination of these considerations suggests that the following three sociocultural changes associated with China's modernization processes may have led to the new norms in grandparent child care: reinterpreted intergenerational relationships, women's empowerment in natal families, and a child‐centered care ideology.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the rise of maternal grandmother child care reflects a weakening of patrilineality in intergenerational resource exchange in favor for a utilitarian strategy of maximizing resources available to urban Chinese families as they adapt to China's rapid socioeconomic transformations.
Parent–Adolescent Dyads as Temporal Interpersonal Emotion Systems
Authors: Lougheed Jessica P.
Published: August 2019

Research on the role of parent–adolescent relationships in psychosocial adjustment needs a conceptual approach that specifies the processes by which development is nested in the relationship. I forward a new approach and emphasize the need to consider the unique elements that individuals bring to the dyadic system. I also emphasize the need to examine processes at multiple time scales. I highlight the complexity of dyadic system dynamics: Biological predispositions set the foundation for the parent–adolescent relationship and the emotion dynamics that emerge during interactions. As the system gets entrained through repeated interactions over longer time scales, real‐time dynamics coalesce into psychosocial adjustment, which in turn constrains real‐time dynamics. I review the evidence for each of these processes and discuss the implications.
Deoxynivalenol induces oxidative stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis in bovine mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Junmei , Jin Yongcheng , Wu Shunlu , Yu Hao , Zhao Yun , Fang Hengtong , Shen Jinglin , Zhou Changhai , Fu Yurong , Li Ruihua , Wang Rui , Wang Junxiong , Zheng Kexin , Fan Qingsong , Chen Bojiong , Zhang Jing
Published: August 2019

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a toxic secondary metabolite produced byFusarium graminearum. It is one of the most common feed contaminants that poses a serious threat to the health and performance of dairy cows. This study investigated the in vitro cytotoxicity of DON on bovine mammary epithelial cells (MAC‐T). DON at different concentrations (0.25, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1 or 2 μg/ml) inhibited the growth of MAC‐T cells after 24 hr of exposure (p < .001). DON at 0.25 μg/ml increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage (p < .05); decreased glutathione (GSH) levels (p < .001), total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD) activity and total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC;p < .01); and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (p < .01) in MAC‐T cells after 24 hr of exposure. We also observed that DON increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in cells incubated for 9, 15 and 24 hr (p < .001). DON at 0.25 μg/ml triggered oxidative damage in MAC‐T cells. Furthermore, it induced an inflammatory response in the cells incubated for 9, 15 and 24 hr (p < .05) by increasing the mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor kappa B, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, cyclooxygenase‐2 and IL‐8. We further examined the effect of DON on apoptosis. DON prevented normal proliferation of MAC‐T cells by blocked cell cycle progression in 24 hr (p < .001). In addition, the apoptosis rate measured using annexin V‐FITC significantly increased (p < .05) with increase in the mRNA expression level of Bax (p < .01) and increase in the Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio (p < .01) in cells incubated for 24 hr. In summary, DON exerts toxic effects in MAC‐T cells by causing oxidative stress, inducing an inflammatory response, affecting cell cycle and leading to apoptosis.
Spatial distribution and interspecific associations in a deciduous broad‐leaved forest in north‐central China
Authors: Zhou Quan , Shi Hang , Shu Xiao , Xie Fenglin , Zhang Kerong , Zhang Quanfa , Dang Haishan
Published: August 2019

Questions

What are the primary types of intraspecific distribution patterns and interspecific associations of tree species in the temperate–subtropical transition region? Can potential ecological mechanisms such as habitat heterogeneity, dispersal limitation, density dependence, spatial segregation, and competition between species regulate these patterns?

Location

The Qinling Mountains, north‐central China.

Methods

Ripley's K‐function, D‐function and pair correlation function were applied to assess the spatial distribution of 15 dominant tree species in a fully mapped 25‐ha plot. Complete spatial randomness (CSR), heterogeneous Poisson (HP) and random‐labelling (RL) null models were used to reveal the potential process of community construction.

Results

(a) Thirteen of 15 adult tree species displayed an aggregation distribution at various scales. (b) Eleven adult species (73.3%) showed significant aggregation, especially at small distances, after removing the effect of habitat. (c) The percentage of species showing additional aggregation relative to adults decreased from saplings to juveniles. The maximum strength of density dependence was negative with species abundance. (d) Only 29 (13.8%) of the species pairs showed significant small‐scale interactions. Most of the significant small‐scale associations did not occur in abundant species pairs. (e) Negative interactions of interspecific associations were more prevalent than positive ones, yet there was no consistency of the characteristics among species pairs.

Conclusions

Habitat heterogeneity and dispersal limitation likely contribute to the spatial pattern of tree species at different life stages. Density dependence remains the important factor in maintaining species diversity in this forest stand. Moreover, spatial segregation generates the interspecific spatial patterns of segregation and partial overlap. Unexpectedly, the species herd protection hypothesis and the low‐frequency hypothesis cannot well explain the mechanism of interspecific interaction at small distances. Resource competition might be responsible for negative associations being more frequent among species pairs.
The co‐occurrence of loose skin and underwater calling in frogs—further evidence from Amolops ricketti and its implications
Authors: Zheng Y.
Published: August 2019

Underwater vocalizations of frogs are usually inaudible to the human ear and have been poorly documented. Some authors believe that they are more common than currently recognized, yet there have been no new records at the genus level for nearly 30 years. I report on the recordings of underwater calling by the ranid species Amolops ricketti (Boulenger, 1899) from a mountain stream in southern China. Males emitted 2.2–3.5 calls per minute under submerged rocks, which were inaudible to the human ear. Most of the recorded calls lasted 0.73–2.09 s and contained a weak initial note with fewer pulses (1–5) and one to three subsequent notes (3–13 pulses each) repeated at a rate of 0.82–1.99 notes·s−1, with an internote interval lasting 0.36–1.19 s. The dominant frequency of calls ranged from 2.1 to 3.0 kHz, and the notes exhibited increasing intensity and slight upward frequency modulation. Comparisons between individuals of different sexes and breeding stages reveal that the loose skin of the flanks and thighs is a male nuptial trait in A. ricketti. The finding extends the phylogenetic distribution of underwater vocalization to a distinct lineage and constitutes another instance of loose‐skin frogs calling underwater, which can also been identified in Pelobates (Pelobatidae), Leptobrachium (Megophryidae), Telmatobius (Telmatobiidae), Rana italica and Rana sakuraii (Ranidae). These independent cases may allow the proposal of an evolutionary correlation of the two traits in anurans, as a large surface/volume ratio facilitates high levels of cutaneous respiration required for the effective performance of underwater calling. An awareness of this possibility may aid in increasing our understanding of the natural history of anurans.
Effect of smoke exposure on young adults' sleep quality
Authors: Veronda Allison C. , Irish Leah A. , Delahanty Douglas L.
Published: August 2019

In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between active smoking and environmental tobacco smoke exposure on sleep‐quality complaints. In total, 1023 young adult participants completed online surveys. Based on these surveys, participants were classified into three groups according to their level of smoke exposure (low, moderate, high). An analysis of covariance revealed that, after controlling for sex, participants with high and moderate smoke exposure reported more sleep complaints than those with low exposure. Among non‐smokers, hierarchical linear regression indicated that environmental tobacco smoke exposure was positively associated with sleep complaints. Improved understanding of modifiable risk factors for young adults' poor sleep quality, such as smoke exposure, could enable lifestyle changes that might lay the foundation for improved health at later life stages.
Element content and expression of genes of interest in guard cells are connected to spatiotemporal variations in stomatal conductance
Authors: Durand Maxime , Cohen David , Aubry Nathalie , Buré Cyril , Tomášková Ivana , Hummel Irène , Brendel Oliver , Le Thiec Didier
Published: August 2019

Element content and expression of genes of interest on single cell types, such as stomata, provide valuable insights into their specific physiology, improving our understanding of leaf gas exchange regulation. We investigated how far differences in stomatal conductance (gs) can be ascribed to changes in guard cells functioning in amphistomateous leaves. gs was measured during the day on both leaf sides, on well‐watered and drought‐stressed trees (two Populus euramericana Moench and two Populus nigra L. genotypes). In parallel, guard cells were dissected for element content and gene expressions analyses. Both were strongly arranged according to genotype, and drought had the lowest impact overall. Normalizing the data by genotype highlighted a structure on the basis of leaf sides and time of day both for element content and gene expression. Guard cells magnesium, phosphorus, and chlorine were the most abundant on the abaxial side in the morning, where gs was at the highest. In contrast, genes encoding H+‐ATPase and aquaporins were usually more abundant in the afternoon, whereas genes encoding Ca2+‐vacuolar antiporters, K+ channels, and ABA‐related genes were in general more abundant on the adaxial side. Our work highlights the unique physiology of each leaf side and their analogous rhythmicity through the day.
Tufted angioma with associated Kasabach‐Merritt phenomenon caused by somatic mutation in GNA14
Authors: Lim Young H. , Fraile Carmen , Antaya Richard J. , Choate Keith A.
Published: August 2019

Tufted angioma (TA) is a rare vascular tumor characterized by histologic tufts of proliferating capillaries that occurs in infancy or early childhood, with a poorly understood pathogenesis. Though benign, TA can be associated with the Kasabach‐Merritt phenomenon (KMP), a life‐threatening consumptive coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia. Here, we explored the genetic mechanism underlying a case of TA associated with KMP via targeted sequencing of laser capture micro‐dissected lesion and blood DNA, and identified a somatic, activating GNA14 mutation specific to the tumor. Our findings support aberrant GNA14 activation underlies the pathogenesis of TA associated with KMP.
Cancer Cell‐targeted and Activatable Photoimmunotherapy Spares T Cells in a 3D Coculture Model
Authors: Kercher Eric M. , Nath Shubhankar , Rizvi Imran , Spring Bryan Q.
Published: August 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an established therapeutic modality that uses nonionizing near‐infrared light to activate photocytotoxicity of endogenous or exogenous photosensitizers (PSs). An ongoing avenue of cancer research involves leveraging PDT to stimulate antitumor immune responses; however, these effects appear to be best elicited in low‐dose regimens that do not provide significant tumor reduction using conventional, nonspecific PSs. The loss of immune enhancement at higher PDT doses may arise in part from indiscriminate damage to local immune cell populations, including tumor‐infiltrating T cells. We previously introduced “tumor‐targeted, activatable photoimmunotherapy” (taPIT) using molecular‐targeted and cell‐activatable antibody–PS conjugates to realize precision tumor photodamage with microscale fidelity. Here, we investigate the immune cell sparing effect provided by taPIT in a 3D model of the tumor immune microenvironment. We report that high‐dose taPIT spares 25% of the local immune cell population, five times more than the conventional PDT regimen, in a 3D coculture model incorporating epithelial ovarian cancer cells and T cells. These findings suggest that the enhanced selectivity of taPIT may be utilized to achieve local tumor reduction with sparing of intratumor effector immune cells that would otherwise be lost if treated with conventional PDT.
Special delivery: Engineered endothelial cells for pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Chambers Daniel C.
Published: August 2019

See related Article
Do international flights promote FDI? The role of face‐to‐face communication
Authors: Tanaka Kiyoyasu
Published: August 2019

International passenger flights facilitate business travel for in‐person meetings abroad. However, the significance of face‐to‐face communication (FFC) is not clear. To identify the FFC channel, this paper examines whether flights promote FDI more strongly for multinational firms that face relatively intensive FFC in foreign production. Expatriate employees are used as a proxy for the FFC intensity. Using firm‐level data on Japanese multinational firms for the period 1989 to 2006, I show that more frequent flights increase new FDI entry, with the larger positive effects for multinationals in high FFC sectors. The results support the FFC channel to connect flights and FDI.
The effects of local irradiation on circulating lymphocytes in dogs receiving fractionated radiotherapy
Authors: Kent Michael S. , Emami Shaheen , Rebhun Rob , Theon Alain , Hansen Katherine , Sparger Ellen
Published: August 2019

Localized radiation therapy can be an effective treatment for cancer but is associated with localized and systemic side effects. Several studies have noted changes in complete blood count (CBC) parameters including decreases in the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and increases in the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (NLR). These changes could reflect immunosuppression and may contribute to decreased efficacy of immunotherapies used to treat cancer. We hypothesized that dogs would demonstrate decreased ALCs during a course of radiotherapy. A retrospective study was conducted on 203 dogs receiving definitive‐intent radiotherapy. Demographic information, CBC values and details of the radiotherapy protocol were collected. The mean lymphocyte count pre‐treatment was 1630.68 cells/μL (SD ± 667.56) with a mean NLR of 3.66 (SD ± 4.53). The mean lymphocyte count mid‐treatment was 1251.07 cells/μL (SD ± 585.96) and the mean NLR was 6.23 (SD ± 4.99). There was a significant decrease in the mean lymphocyte count by 351.41 lymphocytes/μL (SD ± 592.32) between pre‐treatment and mid‐treatment (P < .0001), and a corresponding significant increase in the mean NLR of 0.93 (P= .02). Lymphopenia grade increased in 33.5% of dogs and was significant (P= .03). The ALC decrease was not correlated with the volume irradiated (P= .27), but correlated with the irradiated volume:body weight ratio (P= .03). A subset of patients (n = 35) with additional CBCs available beyond the mid‐treatment time point demonstrated significant and sustained downward trends in the ALC compared with baseline. Although severe lymphopenia was rare, these decreases, especially if sustained, could impact adjuvant therapy for their cancer.
Temporary abdominal packing for management of persistent hemorrhage after liver lobectomy in three dogs with hepatic neoplasia
Authors: Evans Natashia A. , Hardie Robert J. , Walker Julie , Bach Jonathan
Published: August 2019

Objective

To describe the technique and outcome of temporary abdominal packing for control of persistent hemorrhage from liver lobectomy sites in 3 dogs with hepatic neoplasia.

Series Summary

Three dogs were treated with massive transfusion for hemoperitoneum secondary to bleeding hepatic tumors. Surgical resection of the affected liver lobe(s) was performed but hemostasis could not be achieved through conventional methods. All 3 dogs demonstrated acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy. Temporary abdominal packing of liver lobectomy sites was performed and hemostasis was achieved in all dogs. One dog died prior to removal of the packing. The other 2 dogs had the packing removed with no evidence of rebleeding. One dog was euthanized after removal of the packing due to acute kidney injury and the remaining dog survived to discharge.

New or Unique Information Provided

Temporary abdominal packing combined with medical management was successful in achieving hemostasis in all 3 dogs, however, 2 dogs died of complications related to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Temporary abdominal packing may be considered when definitive surgical hemostasis cannot be achieved or in unstable patients not able to tolerate prolonged surgical times. Further research is needed to better define efficacy, optimal patient selection, packing technique, timing of removal, and complications associated with temporary abdominal packing.
Successful management of acute bilirubin encephalopathy in a dog with immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia using therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Heffner Geoff G. , Cavanagh Amanda , Nolan Benjamin
Published: August 2019

Objective

To describe the successful management of acute bilirubin encephalopathy in a dog with immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) treated with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in conjunction with conventional medical management.

Case Summary

A 6‐year‐old neutered male Australian Cattle Dog diagnosed with IMHA developed severe hyperbilirubinemia and stupor within the first 48 hours of implementing immunosuppressive therapy consisting of corticosteroids and mycophenolate. The patient received 4 blood transfusions during this period, but remained severely anemic PCV (18%) and experienced a subsequent increase in total bilirubin from 78 µmol/L (4.6 mg/dL) to a peak value of 1,563 µmol/L (91.4 mg/dL). The patient's neurological status rapidly deteriorated, resulting in lateral recumbency, vertical nystagmus, extensor rigidity, and stuporous mentation. Over the next 3 days, TPE was provided once every 24 hours, decreasing serum bilirubin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), and immunoglobulin M (IgM). The patient's red blood cell (RBC) transfusion requirements decreased immediately, requiring only 1 transfusion over the next 7 days that was required due to procedure‐associated blood loss. Gradual neurological improvement was noted as serum bilirubin decreased. A brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) did not reveal any structural abnormalities and the patient was discharged after 11 days of hospitalization. Following discharge, the patient had complete remission of IMHA without any residual neurological deficits. Therapeutic plasma exchange played an integral role in case management and was successful in reducing bilirubin, IgG, and IgM.

New or Unique Information Provided

Bilirubin encephalopathy has been rarely reported in small animal medicine and cases have been limited to postmortem documentation. This is the first suspected case of acute bilirubin encephalopathy in a dog that survived and describes the clinical course of disease. The kinetics of serum bilirubin, IgG, and IgM concentrations before and after TPE and throughout the hospitalization period are also described.
Inhibition of CaCO3 growth in hard water by quercetin as green inhibitor
Authors: Ghizellaoui Samira , Boumagoura Manel , Rhouati Salah , Cheap‐Charpentier Hélène , Horner Olivier
Published: August 2019

In this study, the properties of quercetin (3,3′,4′,5,7‐pentahydroxyflavone) solution towards CaCO3 formation were evaluated by using chronoamperometry (CA) and impedance measurements. Quercetin a flavonoid present in plants as a secondary metabolite. Using CA, precipitation of CaCO3 was totally inhibited by adding 2 mg/L of quercetin (T = 30°C). The same result was obtained by impedance measurements. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the calcium carbonate scale without or with quercetin treatment. The predominant crystalline structure corresponds to a mixture of calcite and aragonite.
On Some Graphs of Finite Metabelian Groups of Order Less Than 24
Authors: Gambo Ibrahim , Sarmin Nor Haniza , Saleh Omer Sanaa Mohamed
Published: August 2019

In this work, a non-abelian metabelian group is represented by G while represents conjugacy class graph. Conjugacy class graph of a group is that graph associated with the conjugacy classes of the group. Its vertices are the non-central conjugacy classes of the group, and two distinct vertices are joined by an edge if their cardinalities are not coprime. A group is referred to as metabelian if there exits an abelian normal subgroup in which the factor group is also abelian. It has been proven earlier that 25 non-abelian metabelian groups which have order less than 24, which are considered in this work, exist. In this article, the conjugacy class graphs of non-abelian metabelian groups of order less than 24 are determined as well as examples of some finite groups associated to other graphs are given.
Unsteady Free Convection Flow between Two Vertical Parallel Plates with Newtonian Heating
Authors: Zulkiflee Fasihah , Mohamad Ahmad Qushairi , Shafie Sharidan , Khan Arshad
Published: August 2019

Free convection flow in a boundary layer region is a motion that results from the interaction of gravity with density differences within a fluid. These differences occur due to temperature or concentration gradients or due to their composition. Studies pertaining free convection flows of incompressible viscous fluids have received much attention in recent years both theoretically (exact or approximate solutions) and experimentally. The situation where the heat be transported to the convective fluid via a bounding surface having finite heat capacity is known as Newtonian heating (or conjugate convective flows). In this paper, the unsteady free convection flow of an incompressible viscous fluid between two parallel plates with Newtonian heating is studied. Appropriate non-dimensional variables are used to reduce the dimensional governing equations along with imposed initial and boundary conditions into dimensionless forms. The exact solutionsfor velocity and temperature are obtained using the Laplace transform technique. The corresponding expressions for skin friction and Nusselt number are also calculated. The graphical results are displayed to illustrate the influence of various embedded parameters such as Newtonian heating parameter and Grashof number. The results show that the effect of Newtonian heating parameter increases the Nusselt number but reduces the skin friction.
Non-transformed Principal Component Technique on Weekly Construction Stock Market Price
Authors: Andu Yusrina , Lee Muhammad Hisyam , Algamal Zakariya Yahya
Published: August 2019

The fast-growing urbanization has contributed to the construction sector becoming one of the major sectors traded in the world stock market. In general, non-stationarity is highly related to most of the stock market price pattern. Even though stationarity transformation is a common approach, yet this may prompt to originality loss of the data. Hence, the non-transformation technique using a generalized dynamic principal component (GDPC) were considered for this study. Comparison of GDPC was performed with two transformed principal component techniques. This is pertinent as to observe a larger perspective of both techniques. Thus, the latest weekly two-years observations of nine constructions stock market price from seven different countries were applied. The data was tested for stationarity before performing the analysis. As a result, the mean squared error in the non-transformed technique shows eight lowest values. Similarly, eight construction stock market prices had the highest percentage of explained variance. In conclusion, a non-transformed technique can also present a better resultoutcome without the stationarity transformation.
Process Improvement on Domestic Wastewater Treatment Stabilization Ponds by Using Mathematical Optimization Approach
Authors: Sunarsih Sunarsih , Sasongko Dwi Purwantoro , Sutrisno Sutrisno
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a mathematical optimization approach is used to improve the pollutant degradation process on domestic wastewater treatment stabilization ponds. The optimized process in this research is the pumping process that was modelled as a mathematical optimization problem. By using data that was collected in Sewon wastewater treatment in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, the pumping process can be optimized and the optimal decision was determined that can be applied to operate this wastewater treatment pond.
Electron backscatter diffraction of Nb3Sn coated niobium: Revealing structure as a function of depth
Authors: Tuggle Jay , Pudasaini Uttar , Angle Jonathan , Eremeev Grigory , Reece Charlie E. , Stevie Fred A. , Kelley Michael J.
Published: August 2019

Over the last two decades, advances in Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) have moved the technique from a research tool to an essential characterization technique in many fields of material research. EBSD is the best suited technique for determining structure as a function of depth. This characterization is critically important but has been previously absent from Nb3Sn efforts. While EBSD is the technique of choice, obtaining quality data can be difficult. Sample preparation in particular is nontrivial. Here, we summarize the general principles of EBSD, discuss specific sample preparation techniques for Nb3Sn coated SRF cavity materials, and give examples of how EBSD is being used to understand fundamental growth mechanisms for Nb3Sn coatings.
A computer model of classical rolling friction
Authors: Knop Robert
Published: August 2019

A numerical model of a wheel consists of a series of particles evenly spaced around the rim of the wheel, each connected with both neighboring particles by a damped spring. In the simulation, the wheel rolls along the ground, allowing determination of position, velocity, deformation, and angular velocity of the wheel as the system evolves. The results of the simulation are consistent with what is observed experimentally with rolling friction: the rolling resistance goes up as pressure goes down, and it goes up as speed goes up. The simulation indicates that the majority of the kinetic energy lost from the wheel is dissipated in deformations of the wheel, i.e., in the dampers between the particles. Kinetic friction is negligible. Both static friction and the contact normal force vary over the region of contact between wheel and ground, with the effective position of the normal force acting forward of the center of the wheel. Static friction is the force responsible for the change in linear momentum of the wheel.
Sample size implications for calculations of community tolerance level values from social surveys of noise-induced annoyance
Authors: Gjestland Truls , Gelderblom Femke B. , Fidell Sanford
Published: August 2019

The relationship between noise exposure and the prevalence of annoyance of transportation noise in a community is commonly characterized by a so-called dose-response curve, also referred to as exposure-response curves. Such curves are generally estimated by meta-analyses of social survey findings. Large numbers of survey respondents are generally assumed to be associated with exposure-response relationships of high accuracy and precision. The community tolerance level (CTL) approach [Fidell, Mestre, Schomer, Berry, Gjestland, Vallet, and Reid (2011). J. Acoust. Soc. Am 130, 791–806] to analysis of noise-induced annoyance in communities assumes (1) that the prevalence of a consequential degree of annoyance in communities grows as does the duration-adjusted loudness of noise exposure, and (2) that this rate-of-growth function is constant for all transportation noise sources. Because CTL analysis assumes a growth function with a single parameter the entire relationship between noise exposure and prevalence of high annoyance can be described by a single quantity—a CTL value. A re-analysis of the results of about 100 social surveys shows that a sample of about 300 respondents yields results with useful precision limits for regulatory purposes.
Clinical and Microbiologic Outcomes in Patients with Monomicrobial Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Infections
Authors: Nys Cara , Cherabuddi Kartik , Venugopalan Veena , Klinker Kenneth P.
Published: August 2019

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
is an opportunistic pathogen observed in nosocomial infections. Due to biofilm production and resistance to numerous antimicrobials, eradication is difficult. This study evaluated outcomes for monomicrobial
S. maltophilia
infections. Seventy-six patients were included, with 45 patients on trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and 31 patients on levofloxacin. Overall clinical cure, microbiological eradication, and 28-day mortality were observed in 79%, 82%, and 14% of patients, respectively.
Feedback Regulation between Aquatic Microorganisms and the Bloom-Forming Cyanobacterium
Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Zhang Meng , Lu Tao , Paerl Hans W. , Chen Yiling , Zhang Zhenyan , Zhou Zhigao , Qian Haifeng
Published: August 2019

We measured the microbial community composition and metabolic responses of
Microcystis aeruginosa
in a microcosm coculture system receiving dissolved inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus (DIP) close to the average concentrations in Lake Taihu. In the coculture system, DIP is depleted and the growth and production of aquatic microorganisms can be stressed by a lack of DIP availability.
M. aeruginosa
could accelerate its growth via interactions with specific cooccurring microorganisms and the accumulation of several intermediates in energy metabolism-related pathways. Furthermore,
M. aeruginosa
can decrease the carbohydrate metabolism of cooccurring aquatic microorganisms and thus disrupt microbial activities in the coculture. This also had a negative effect on bacterial and eukaryotic microbial richness and diversity. Microcystin was capable of decreasing the biomass of total phytoplankton in aquatic microcosms. Overall, compared to the monoculture, the growth of total aquatic microorganisms is inhibited, with the diversity and richness of eukaryotic microorganisms being more negatively impacted than those of prokaryotic microorganisms. The only exception is
M. aeruginosa
in the coculture system, whose growth was accelerated.
The Inhalable Mycobiome of Sawmill Workers: Exposure Characterization and Diversity
Authors: Straumfors Anne , Foss Oda A. H. , Fuss Janina , Mollerup Steen K. , Kauserud Håvard , Mundra Sunil
Published: August 2019

To gain more knowledge about exposure-response relationships, it is important to improve exposure characterization by comprehensively identifying the temporal and spatial fungal composition and diversity of inhalable dust at workplaces. The variation in the diverse fungal communities to which individuals are exposed in different seasons and sawmills suggests that variations in exposure-related health effects between seasons and companies can be expected. More importantly, the distinct fungal profiles between departments across companies indicate that workers in different job groups are differently exposed and that health risks can be department specific. DNA metabarcoding provides insight into a broad spectrum of airborne fungi that may serve as a basis for obtaining important knowledge about the fungi to which workers are exposed.
Discovery and Contribution of Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae NTHI1441 to Human Respiratory Epithelial Cell Invasion
Authors: Ahearn C. P. , Kirkham C. , Chaves L. D. , Kong Y. , Pettigrew M. M. , Murphy T. F.
Published: August 2019

Nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
(NTHi) is the primary cause of bacterially induced acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). NTHi adheres to and invades host respiratory epithelial cells as a means to persist in the lower airways of adults with COPD. Therefore, we mined the genomes of NTHi strains isolated from the airways of adults with COPD to identify novel proteins to investigate their role in adherence and invasion of human respiratory epithelial cells.