bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative plasma pharmacokinetics of ceftiofur sodium and ceftiofur crystalline‐free acid in neonatal calves
Authors: Woodrow J. S. , Caldwell M. , Cox S. , Hines M. , Credille B. C.
Published: November 2015

The objective of this study was to compare the plasma pharmacokinetic profile of ceftiofur crystalline‐free acid (CCFA) and ceftiofur sodium in neonatal calves between 4 and 6 days of age. In one group (n = 7), a single dose of CCFA was administered subcutaneously (SQ) at the base of the ear at a dose of 6.6 mg/kg of body weight. In a second group (n = 7), a single dose of ceftiofur sodium was administered SQ in the neck at a dose of 2.2 mg/kg of body weight. Concentrations of desfuroylceftiofur acetamide (DCA) in plasma were determined by HPLC. Median time to maximum DCA concentration was 12 h (range 12–48 h) for CCFA and 1 h (range 1–2 h) for ceftiofur sodium. Median maximum plasma DCA concentration was significantly higher for calves given ceftiofur sodium (5.62 μg/mL; range 4.10–6.91 μg/mL) than for calves given CCFA (3.23 μg/mL; range 2.15–4.13 μg/mL). AUC0‐∞ and Vd/F were significantly greater for calves given CCFA than for calves given ceftiofur sodium. The median terminal half‐life of DCA in plasma was significantly longer for calves given CCFA (60.6 h; range 43.5–83.4 h) than for calves given ceftiofur sodium (18.1 h; range 16.7–39.7 h). Cl/F was not significantly different between groups. The duration of time median plasma DCA concentrations remained above 2.0 μg/mL was significantly longer in calves that received CCFA (84.6 h; range 48–103 h) as compared to calves that received ceftiofur sodium (21.7 h; range 12.6–33.6 h). Based on the results of this study, CCFA administered SQ at a dose of 6.6 mg/kg in neonatal calves provided plasma concentrations above the therapeutic target of 2 μg/mL for at least 3 days following a single dose. It is important to note that the use of ceftiofur‐containing products is restricted by the FDA and the use of CCFA in veal calves is strictly prohibited.
A quantitative approach to analysing cortisol response in the horse
Authors: Ekstrand C. , Ingvast‐Larsson C. , Olsén L. , Hedeland M. , Bondesson U. , Gabrielsson J.
Published: November 2015

The cortisol response to glucocorticoid intervention has, in spite of several studies in horses, not been fully characterized with regard to the determinants of onset, intensity and duration of response. Therefore, dexamethasone and cortisol response data were collected in a study applying a constant rate infusion regimen of dexamethasone (0.17, 1.7 and 17 μg/kg) to six Standardbreds. Plasma was analysed for dexamethasone and cortisol concentrations usingUHPLC‐MS/MS. Dexamethasone displayed linear kinetics within the concentration range studied. A turnover model of oscillatory behaviour accurately mimicked cortisol data. The mean baseline concentration range was 34–57 μg/L, the fractional turnover rate 0.47–1.5 1/h, the amplitude parameter 6.8–24 μg/L, the maximum inhibitory capacity 0.77–0.97, the drug potency 6–65 ng/L and the sigmoidicity factor 0.7–30. This analysis provided a better understanding of the time course of the cortisol response in horses. This includes baseline variability within and between horses and determinants of the equilibrium concentration–response relationship. The analysis also challenged a protocol for a dexamethasone suppression test design and indicated future improvement to increase the predictability of the test.
Increased expressions of ADAMTS‐13 and apoptosis contribute to neuropathology during Toxoplasma gondii encephalitis in mice
Authors: Dincel Gungor Cagdas , Atmaca Hasan Tarik
Published: November 2015

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a protozoan parasite with the potential of causing severe encephalitis among immunocompromised humans and animals. Our previous study showed that T. gondii induces high nitric oxide (NO) production, high glial activation (GFAP) and neurofilament expressions, leading to severe neurodegeneration in toxoplasma encephalitis (TE) in the central nervous system (CNS). The aim of this experimental study was to investigate ADAMTS‐13 expression and apoptosis in CNS and to identify whether they have any correlation with toxoplasmosis neuropathology and neurodegeneration. Mice were infected with ME49 strain T. gondii and the levels of ADAMTS‐13, caspase 3, caspase 8, caspase 9, TNFR1 and Bcl‐xL expressions were examined in brain tissues by immunohistochemistry, during the development and establishment of chronic infections at 10, 30 and 60 days post‐infection. Results of the study revealed that the levels of ADAMTS‐13 (P < 0.005), caspase 3 (P < 0.05), caspase 8 (P < 0.05), caspase 9 (P < 0.005) and TNFR1 (P < 0.05) expressions in the brain markedly increased while Bcl‐xL expression decreased (P < 0.005). The most prominent finding from our study was that 10, 30 and 60 days post‐infection ADAMTS‐13 increased significantly and this may play an important role in the regulation and protection of the blood‐brain barrier integrity and CNS microenvironment in TE. These results also suggest that T. gondii‐mediated apoptosis might play a pivotal role and a different type of role in the mechanism of neurodegeneration and neuropathology in the process of TE. Furthermore, expression of ADAMTS‐13 might give an idea of the progress and is critical for diagnosis of this disease. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report on ADAMTS‐13 expression in the CNS of T. gondii‐infected mice.
Diverse functions and reactions of class III peroxidases
Authors: Shigeto Jun , Tsutsumi Yuji
Published: November 2015

Higher plants contain plant‐specific peroxidases (class III peroxidase; Prxs) that exist as large multigene families. Reverse genetic studies to characterize the function of each Prx have revealed that Prxs are involved in lignification, cell elongation, stress defense and seed germination. However, the underlying mechanisms associated with plant phenotypes following genetic engineering of Prx genes are not fully understood. This is because Prxs can function as catalytic enzymes that oxidize phenolic compounds while consuming hydrogen peroxide and/or as generators of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, biochemical efforts to characterize Prxs responsible for lignin polymerization have revealed specialized activities of Prxs. In conclusion, not only spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression and protein distribution, but also differentiated oxidation properties of each Prx define the function of this class of peroxidases.
Giant peroxisomes in a moss (Physcomitrella patens) peroxisomal biogenesis factor 11 mutant
Authors: Kamisugi Yasuko , Mitsuya Shiro , El‐Shami Mahmoud , Knight Celia D. , Cuming Andrew C. , Baker Alison
Published: November 2015

Peroxisomal biogenesis factor 11 (PEX11) proteins are found in yeasts, mammals and plants, and play a role in peroxisome morphology and regulation of peroxisome division. The moss Physcomitrella patens has six PEX11 isoforms which fall into two subfamilies, similar to those found in monocots and dicots.

We carried out targeted gene disruption of the Phypa_PEX11‐1 gene and compared the morphological and cellular phenotypes of the wild‐type and mutant strains.

The mutant grew more slowly and the development of gametophores was retarded. Mutant chloronemal filaments contained large cellular structures which excluded all other cellular organelles. Expression of fluorescent reporter proteins revealed that the mutant strain had greatly enlarged peroxisomes up to 10 μm in diameter. Expression of a vacuolar membrane marker confirmed that the enlarged structures were not vacuoles, or peroxisomes sequestered within vacuoles as a result of pexophagy. Phypa_PEX11 targeted to peroxisome membranes could rescue the knock out phenotype and interacted with Fission1 on the peroxisome membrane.

Moss PEX11 functions in peroxisome division similar to PEX11 in other organisms but the mutant phenotype is more extreme and environmentally determined, making P. patens a powerful system in which to address mechanisms of peroxisome proliferation and division.
Aberrant regulation of synchronous network activity by the attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder‐associated human dopamine D4 receptor variant D4.7 in the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Zhong Ping , Liu Wenhua , Yan Zhen
Published: November 2015

Key points

The hD4.7 variant has been linked to attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, the underlying mechanism is unknown.

We found that activation of hD4.7 induced over‐suppression of glutamatergic excitatory network bursts and under‐suppression of GABAergic inhibitory network bursts in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) circuitry.

Methylphenidate, a psychostimulant drug used to treat ADHD, normalized the effects of hD4.7 on synchronous network bursts in PFC pyramidal neurons.

The findings of the present study suggest that the aberrant regulation of PFC synchronous network activity by hD4.7 may underlie its involvement in ADHD.

A unique feature of the human D4 receptor (hD4R) gene is the existence of a large number of polymorphisms in exon 3 coding for the third intracellular loop, which consists of a variable number of tandem repeats. The hD4R variants with long repeats have been linked to attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, the underlying mechanism is unknown. Emerging evidence suggests that selective attention is controlled by the rhythmic synchronization in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and its connected networks. In the present study, we examined the role of hD4R variants in regulating PFC synchronous network activity. D4R knockout mice with viral infection of hD4.4 or hD4.7 in the medial PFC were used. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were performed to examine the effects of activating hD4.x on the spontaneous large scale correlated activity in PFC pyramidal neurons. We found that, compared to the normal four‐repeat variant hD4.4, the ADHD‐linked variant hD4.7 induces more suppression of glutamatergic excitatory network bursts and less suppression of GABAergic inhibitory network bursts in the PFC circuitry. Methylphenidate, a psychostimulant drug used to treat ADHD, normalized the effects of hD4.7 on synchronous network bursts in PFC pyramidal neurons. These results reveal the differential effects of hD4R variants on the integrated excitability of PFC circuits. It is suggested that the aberrant regulation of PFC network activity by hD4.7 may underlie its involvement in ADHD. The methylphenidate‐induced normalization of synaptic circuitry regulation may contribute to its effectiveness in ADHD treatment.
Multilayer on-chip stacked Fresnel zone plates: Hard x-ray fabrication and soft x-ray simulations
Authors: Li Kenan , Wojcik Michael J. , Ocola Leonidas E. , Divan Ralu , Jacobsen Chris
Published: November 2015

Fresnel zone plates are widely used as x-ray nanofocusing optics. To achieve high spatial resolution combined with good focusing efficiency, high aspect ratio nanolithography is required, and one way to achieve that is through multiple e-beam lithography writing steps to achieve on-chip stacking. A two-step writing process producing 50 nm finest zone width at a zone thickness of 1.14 μm for possible hard x-ray applications is shown here. The authors also consider in simulations the case of soft x-ray focusing where the zone thickness might exceed the depth of focus. In this case, the authors compare on-chip stacking with, and without, adjustment of zone positions and show that the offset zones lead to improved focusing efficiency. The simulations were carried out using a multislice propagation method employing Hankel transforms.
Effect of Active Workstation on Energy Expenditure and Job Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Cao Chunmei , Liu Yu , Zhu Weimo , Ma Jiangjun
Published: November 2015

Background:

Recently developed active workstation could become a potential means for worksite physical activity and wellness promotion. The aim of this review was to quantitatively examine the effectiveness of active workstation in energy expenditure and job performance.

Methods:

The literature search was conducted in 6 databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscuss, Web of Science, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Scopuse) for articles published up to February 2014, from which a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted.

Results:

The cumulative analysis for EE showed there was significant increase in EE using active workstation [mean effect size (MES): 1.47; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22 to 1.72, P < .0001]. Results from job performance indicated 2 findings: (1) active workstation did not affect selective attention, processing speed, speech quality, reading comprehension, interpretation and accuracy of transcription; and (2) it could decrease the efficiency of typing speed (MES: –0.55; CI: –0.88 to –0.21, P < .001) and mouse clicking (MES: –1.10; CI: –1.29 to –0.92, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Active workstation could significantly increase daily PA and be potentially useful in reducing workplace sedentariness. Although some parts of job performance were significantly lower, others were not. As a result there was little effect on real-life work productivity if we made a good arrangement of job tasks.
Change in Physical Activity and Sedentary Time Associated With 2-Year Weight Loss in Obese Adults With Osteoarthritis
Authors: Pellegrini Christine A. , Song Jing , Chang Rowland W. , Semanik Pamela A. , Lee Jungwha , Ehrlich-Jones Linda , Pinto Daniel , Dunlop Dorothy D.
Published: November 2015

Background:

We examined if changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light activity, and sedentary behavior are related to weight change over a 2-year period in obese adults with/elevated risk for knee osteoarthritis.

Methods:

Weight, physical activity, and sedentary time at baseline and 2 years were obtained from 459 obese participants from the Osteoarthritis Initiative. Weight change was categorized as ≥ 10 lbs, 5.0 to 9.9 lbs, 4.9 to –4.9 lbs, –5.0 to –9.9 lbs, and ≤ –10 lbs. We examined the association between 2-year weight change categories and changes in activity/sedentary time from accelerometer monitoring by multiple linear regression adjusted for baseline weight, demographic, and health factors.

Results:

Across the 5 weight categories (loss to gain), average 2-year change ranged from -7.4 to 28.0 sedentary minutes/day, 4.2 to –23.1 light activity minutes/day, and 3.2 to –4.9 MVPA minutes/day, respectively. Higher weight loss categories were separately associated with increased MVPA (P for trend < 0.001) and less sedentary gain (P for trend = 0.01). Weight loss categories had a strong trend with light activity gain but not statistically significant (P for trend = 0.06).

Conclusions:

Small increases in MVPA and decreases in sedentary time over 2 years were associated with weight loss among adults with obesity and with or at elevated risk for knee osteoarthritis.
Distinct routes of lineage development reshape the human blood hierarchy across ontogeny
Authors: Notta Faiyaz , Zandi Sasan , Takayama Naoya , Dobson Stephanie , Gan Olga I. , Wilson Gavin , Kaufmann Kerstin B. , McLeod Jessica , Laurenti Elisa , Dunant Cyrille F. , McPherson John D. , Stein Lincoln D. , Dror Yigal , Dick John E.
Published: November 2015

Adjusting hematopoietic hierarchy

In adults, more than 300 billion blood cells are replenished daily. This output arises from a cellular hierarchy where stem cells differentiate into a series of multilineage progenitors, culminating in unilineage progenitors that generate over 10 different mature blood cell types. Notta
et al.
mapped the lineage potential of nearly 3000 single cells from 33 different cell populations of stem and progenitor cells from fetal liver, cord blood, and adult bone marrow (see the Perspective by Cabezas-Wallscheid and Trumpp). Prenatally, stem cell and progenitor populations were multilineage with few unilineage progenitors. In adults, multilineage cell potential was only seen in stem cell populations.

Science
, this issue p.
10.1126/science.aab2116
; see also p.
126
Commensal
Bifidobacterium
promotes antitumor immunity and facilitates anti–PD-L1 efficacy
Authors: Sivan Ayelet , Corrales Leticia , Hubert Nathaniel , Williams Jason B. , Aquino-Michaels Keston , Earley Zachary M. , Benyamin Franco W. , Man Lei Yuk , Jabri Bana , Alegre Maria-Luisa , Chang Eugene B. , Gajewski Thomas F.
Published: November 2015

Gut microbes affect immunotherapy

The unleashing of antitumor T cell responses has ushered in a new era of cancer treatment. Although these therapies can cause dramatic tumor regressions in some patients, many patients inexplicably see no benefit. Mice have been used in two studies to investigate what might be happening. Specific members of the gut microbiota influence the efficacy of this type of immunotherapy (see the Perspective by Snyder
et al.
). Vétizou
et al.
found that optimal responses to anticytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen blockade required specific
Bacteroides
spp. Similarly, Sivan
et al.
discovered that
Bifidobacterium
spp. enhanced the efficacy of antiprogrammed cell death ligand 1 therapy.

Science
, this issue, p.
1079
and p.
1084
; see also p.
1031
Anticancer immunotherapy by CTLA-4 blockade relies on the gut microbiota
Authors: Vétizou Marie , Pitt Jonathan M. , Daillère Romain , Lepage Patricia , Waldschmitt Nadine , Flament Caroline , Rusakiewicz Sylvie , Routy Bertrand , Roberti Maria P. , Duong Connie P. M. , Poirier-Colame Vichnou , Roux Antoine , Becharef Sonia , Formenti Silvia , Golden Encouse , Cording Sascha , Eberl Gerard , Schlitzer Andreas , Ginhoux Florent , Mani Sridhar , Yamazaki Takahiro , Jacquelot Nicolas , Enot David P. , Bérard Marion , Nigou Jérôme , Opolon Paule , Eggermont Alexander , Woerther Paul-Louis , Chachaty Elisabeth , Chaput Nathalie , Robert Caroline , Mateus Christina , Kroemer Guido , Raoult Didier , Boneca Ivo Gomperts , Carbonnel Franck , Chamaillard Mathias , Zitvogel Laurence
Published: November 2015

Gut microbes affect immunotherapy

The unleashing of antitumor T cell responses has ushered in a new era of cancer treatment. Although these therapies can cause dramatic tumor regressions in some patients, many patients inexplicably see no benefit. Mice have been used in two studies to investigate what might be happening. Specific members of the gut microbiota influence the efficacy of this type of immunotherapy (see the Perspective by Snyder
et al.
). Vétizou
et al.
found that optimal responses to anticytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen blockade required specific
Bacteroides
spp. Similarly, Sivan
et al.
discovered that
Bifidobacterium
spp. enhanced the efficacy of antiprogrammed cell death ligand 1 therapy.

Science
, this issue, p.
1079
and p.
1084
; see also p.
1031
First Complete Genome Sequence of Felis catus Gammaherpesvirus 1
Authors: Troyer Ryan M. , Lee Justin S. , Vuyisich Momchilo , Chain Patrick , Lo Chien-Chi , Kronmiller Brent , Bracha Shay , Avery Anne C. , VandeWoude Sue
Published: November 2015

We sequenced the complete genome of
Felis catus
gammaherpesvirus 1 (FcaGHV1) from lymph node DNA of an infected cat. The genome includes a 121,556-nucleotide unique region with 87 predicted open reading frames (61 gammaherpesvirus conserved and 26 unique) flanked by multiple copies of a 966-nucleotide terminal repeat.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Propionibacterium acnes Strains Isolated from Progressive Macular Hypomelanosis Lesions of Human Skin
Authors: Petersen Rolf , Lomholt Hans B. , Scholz Christian F. P. , Brüggemann Holger
Published: November 2015

Propionibacterium acnes
is a Gram-positive bacterium that is prevalent on human skin. It has been associated with skin disorders such as acne vulgaris and progressive macular hypomelanosis (PMH). Here, we report draft genome sequences of two type III
P. acnes
strains, PMH5 and PMH7, isolated from PMH skin lesions.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium peregrinum Strain CSUR P2098
Authors: Asmar Shady , Rascovan Nicolás , Robert Catherine , Drancourt Michel
Published: November 2015

Mycobacterium peregrinum
is a nonpigmented rapid growing nontuberculosis species belonging to the
Mycobacterium fortuitum
group. The draft genome of
M. peregrinum
type I CSUR P2098 comprises 7,109,836 bp exhibiting a 66.23% G+C content, 6,894 protein-coding genes, and 100 predicted RNA genes. Its genome analysis suggests this species differs from
Mycobacterium senegalense
.
Draft Genome Sequence of Porphyromonas gingivalis Strain Ando Expressing a 53-Kilodalton-Type Fimbrilin Variant of Mfa1 Fimbriae
Authors: Goto Takatsugu , Nagano Keiji , Hirakawa Hideki , Tanaka Kaori , Yoshimura Fuminobu
Published: November 2015

Periodontopathic
Porphyromonas gingivalis
strain Ando abundantly expresses a 53-kDa-type Mfa1 fimbria. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of Ando, with a size of 2,229,994 bp, average G+C content of 48.4%, and 1,755 predicted protein-coding sequences.
Genome Sequence of a Potential Probiotic Strain, Lactobacillus fermentum HFB3, Isolated from a Human Gut
Authors: Kumari Madhu , Swarnkar Mohit Kumar , Kumar Sanjay , Singh Anil Kumar , Gupta Mahesh
Published: November 2015

A draft genome sequence of 2.04 Mb is reported for
Lactobacillus fermentum
HFB3, which is a lactic acid bacterium with probiotic properties. The gene-coding clusters also predicted the presence of genes responsible for probiotic characteristics.
Complete Genome Sequences of Campylobacter jejuni Strains RM3196 (233.94) and RM3197 (308.95) Isolated from Patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Authors: Parker Craig T. , Huynh Steven , Heikema Astrid P. , Cooper Kerry K. , Miller William G.
Published: November 2015

Infections with
Campylobacter jejuni
subsp.
jejuni
are a leading cause of foodborne gastroenteritis and the most prevalent infection preceding Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). This study describes the genomes of
C. jejuni
subsp.
jejuni
HS:41 strains RM3196 (233.94) and RM3197 (308.95) that were isolated from patients with GBS in Cape Town, South Africa.
Urgent resection of a giant left atrial appendage aneurysm and mitral valve replacement in a complex case of Hurler-Scheie syndrome
Authors: Brazier Andrew , Hasan Ragheb , Jenkins Petra , Hoschtitzky Andreas
Published: November 2015

Hurler-Scheie syndrome is a rare lysosomal storage disease affecting the cardiovascular system. Besides the cardiac manifestations, it presents with complications from abnormal proteoglycan deposition in soft tissues in many locations, resulting in joint contractures, paraplegia, impaired vision, airway narrowing and restrictive lung function, to name a few. There are very few reports of surgical management of valvular heart disease due to mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS). We describe the successful management of a patient with an extremely challenging case of mitral valve stenosis and a giant left atrial appendage aneurysm due to MPS type 1 (Hurler-Scheie syndrome). The patient underwent mitral valve replacement and excision of the giant left atrial appendage aneurysm; a similar case has not been previously reported.
Lateral coefficient of friction for characterizing winter road conditions
Authors: Salimi Sahar , Nassiri Somayeh , Bayat Alireza , Halliday Don
Published: November 2015

Real Time Traction Tool (RT3)-Curve was used in this study to evaluate the effect of ice and snow on tire–road lateral friction coefficient, herein referred to as the Halliday Friction Number (HFN). The field experiments for the study were performed in winter 2012–2013 on the University of Alberta’s test road facility in Edmonton, Alberta. Each run was repeated at three target speeds under varied road conditions, bare dry, dry with ice patches, ice, and three levels of snow accumulation. No considerable correlation was found between vehicle speed and the friction measurements for bare dry, ice- and snow-covered conditions. Expectedly, the bare dry asphalt concrete surface had the highest HFN, the presence of ice reduced the dry surface friction by 55%. The accumulation of snow on the dry surface reduced the HFN further than ice, by 69, 75, and 81% for light, moderate, and heavy snow, respectively. A falling trend was observed for friction as more snow accumulated on the ground. Analysis of the effect of number of truck passes over ice at −3.5 and −5 °C showed that ice can become more slippery after each pass of traffic. A similar analysis for snow revealed that more passes over moderate snow will compact the fresh snow into a slippery surface. For light snow, even at low temperatures (<−10 °C), passes of traffic will melt the snow through frictional heat and result in higher friction values.
Algorithms for Steiner Connected Dominating Set Problem Based on Learning Automata Theory
Authors: Torkestani Javad Akbari
Published: November 2015

The Steiner connected dominating set problem is a generalization of the well-known connected dominating set problem, in which only a specified subset of the vertices must be dominated. Finding the Steiner connected dominating set is an NP-hard problem in graph theory, and a new promising approach for multicast routing in wireless ad hoc networks. In this paper, we propose six learning automata-based approximation algorithms for finding a near optimal solution to the minimum Steiner connected dominating set problem. For the first proposed algorithm, it is shown that, by a proper choice of the learning rate of algorithm, the probability of approximating the optimal solution is as close to unity as possible. Moreover, we compute the worst case running time of this algorithm for finding a 1/(1 − ε) optimal solution, and show that, by a proper choice of the learning rate, a trade-off between the running time of algorithm and dominating set size can be made. The last proposed algorithm is compared with the previous well-known algorithms and the results show the superiority of the proposed algorithm both in terms of the dominating set size and running time.
Phenomenological and theoretical developments in jet physics at the LHC
Authors: Cacciari Matteo
Published: November 2015

We review the history of jets in high energy physics, and describe in more detail the developments of the past ten years, discussing new algorithms for jet finding and their main characteristics, and summarising the status of perturbative calculations for jet cross sections in hadroproduction. We also describe the emergence of jet grooming and tagging techniques and their application to boosted jets analyses.
Measurements of inclusive jet and dijet cross sections at the Large Hadron Collider
Authors: Francavilla Paolo
Published: November 2015

This review discusses the measurements of the inclusive jet and dijet cross section performed by the experimental collaborations at the LHC during what is now being called LHC Run 1 (2009–2013). It summarises some of the experimental challenges and the techniques used in the measurements of jets cross sections during the LHC Run 1.
STUDY ON THE ROLE OF OSSICULAR JOINT USING FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
Authors: ZHOU LEI , FENG MIAOLIN , WANG WEI , TONG HUA , LIU JIANPING , GAO LI , HUANG XINSHENG
Published: November 2015

The lever ratio, the vibration mode and the stiffness of the ossicular joints were studied using the finite element (FE) analysis of the response of human ear under the outer ear sound excitation. The three-dimensional FE model was constructed based on serial micro CT images of a temporal bone block, and validated through comparison with the experimental data from previous literatures. The displacements of the umbo and stapes footplate and the vibration mode of the ossicles under different grades of stiffness of middle ear components were derived. It is suggested that the flexible ossicular joint combined with the shift of rotation axis causes the increase of lever ratio at high frequency. In addition, the flexible incudostapedial joint (ISJ) can reduce sound transmission especially at high frequency, meanwhile it also permits more vibration energy transmitted to the piston-like directions.
Noether's Problem for p-Groups with an Abelian Subgroup of Index p
Authors: Michailov Ivo M.
Published: November 2015

Let K be a field and G be a finite group. Let G act on the rational function field K(x(g) : g ∈ G) by K-automorphisms defined by g · x(h) = x(gh) for any g, h ∈ G. Denote by K(G) the fixed field K(x(g) : g ∈ G)G. Noether's problem then asks whether K(G) is rational over K. Let p be an odd prime and let G be a p-group of exponent pe. Assume also that (i) char K = p > 0, or (ii) char K ≠ p and K contains a primitive pe-th root of unity. In this paper we prove that K(G) is rational over K for the following two types of groups: (1) G is a finite p-group with an abelian normal subgroup H of index p such that H is a direct product of normal subgroups of G of the type Cpb × (Cp)c for some b, c with 1 ≤ b and 0 ≤ c; (2) G is any group of order p5 from the isoclinic families with numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 8 and 9.
INNOVATION, FIRM PERFORMANCE, AND APPROPRIATION: A META-ANALYSIS
Authors: ROUSSEAU MARY BETH , MATHIAS BLAKE D. , MADDEN LAURA T. , CROOK T. RUSSELL
Published: November 2015

Although innovation is considered the lifeblood of many organisations, firms are often challenged to derive the anticipated performance benefits of innovation. Research on the performance outcomes of innovation is similarly beset with mixed results and ambiguity. Through a meta-analysis of 62 studies over 20 years, this paper confirms a strong linkage between innovation and performance and reveals several contingencies. First, we find that inconsistency across performance outcomes is driven in part by stakeholder appropriation. Second, we find that hypercompetition is persistent over time and across industries. Finally, our aggregation of the evidence shows the integration of product and process innovation yields stronger performance gains than product innovation alone, and large firms reap greater performance benefits from innovation than small firms do. We build on these findings to bring focus to areas in which managers may improve performance gains from innovation, and highlight additional areas that can be informed by future research.
Induced Damping on Vibrating Circular Plates Submerged in Still Fluid
Authors: Gascón-Pérez Manuel , García-Fogeda Pablo
Published: November 2015

When a structure vibrates immersed in a fluid it is known that the dynamic properties of the system are modified. The surrounding fluid will, in general, contribute to the inertia, the rigidity and the damping coefficient of the coupled fluid-structure system. For light structures, like spacecraft antennas, even when the fluid is air the contribution to the dynamic properties can be important. For not so light structures the ratio of the equivalent fluid/structure mass and rigidity can be very small and the fluid contribution could be neglected. For the ratio of equivalent fluid/structure damping both terms are of the same order and therefore the fluid contribution must be studied. The working life of the spacecraft structure would be on space and so without any surrounding fluid. The response of a spacecraft structure on its operational life would be attenuated by the structural damping alone but when the structure is dynamically tested on the earth the dynamic modal test is performed with the fluid surrounding it. The results thus are contaminated by the effects of the fluid. If the damping added by the fluid is of the same order as the structural damping the response of the structure in space can be quite different to the response predicted on earth. It is therefore desirable to have a method able to determine the amount of damping induced by the fluid and that should be subtracted of the total damping measured on the modal vibration test. In this work, a method for the determination of the effect of the surrounding fluid on the dynamic characteristics of a circular plate has been developed. The plate is assumed to vibrate harmonically with the vacuum modes and the generalized forces matrix due to the fluid is thus computed. For a compressible fluid this matrix is formed by complex numbers including terms of inertia, rigidity and damping. The matrix due to the fluid loading is determined by a boundary element method (BEM). The BEM used is of circular rings on the plate surface so the number of elements to obtain an accurate result is very low. The natural frequencies of the system are computed by an iteration procedure one by one and also the damping fluid contribution. Comparisons of the present method with various experimental data and other theories show the efficiency and accuracy of the method for any support condition of the plate.
Identification of Material Damping of a Carbon Composite Bar and Study of Its Effect on Attenuation of Its Transient Lateral Vibrations
Authors: Zapoměl Jaroslav , Dekýš Vladimír , Ferfecki Petr , Sapietová Alžbeta , Sága Milan , Žmindák Milan
Published: November 2015

Reduction of noise and vibrations is one of the major requirements put on operation of modern machines. It can be achieved by application of new materials. The ability to utilize them properly requires learning more about their mechanical properties. Vibration attenuation depends on material damping as an important factor. This paper presents the results of research in a carbon composite material focusing on its internal damping, on the measurement of the damping coefficients and on its implementation into mathematical models. The obtained results were used for investigation of suppressing lateral vibrations of a long homogeneous carbon composite bar oscillating in the resonance area. During the transient period and due to nonlinear effects, the harmonic time-varying loading excites the bar response consisting of a number of harmonic components. The specific damping capacity referred to several oscillation frequencies determined by measurement. The results were evaluated from the point of view of two simple damping theories — viscous and hysteretic. The experiments showed that internal damping of the investigated material could be considered as frequency independent. Therefore, in order to carry out simulations, the bar was represented in the computational model by an Euler beam constituted of Maxwell–Weichert theoretical material. A suitable setting of material constants enabled reaching a constant value of the damping parameters in the required frequency range. The investigated bar vibration is governed by the motion equation in which the internal damping forces depend not only on instantaneous magnitudes of the system’s kinematic parameters but also on their past history. Solution of the equations of motion was performed after its transformation into the state space in the time domain. Results of the computational simulations showed that material damping significantly reduced amplitude of the bar vibrations in the resonance area. The producers of composite materials usually provide material parameters allowing to solve various stationary problems (density, modulus of elasticity, yielding point, strength, etc.), but there is only little or almost no information concerning the data needed for carrying out dynamical or other time-dependent analyses such as internal damping coefficients, fatigue limit, etc. Therefore, determination of the hysteretic character of material damping of the investigated carbon composite material, measurement of its specific damping capacity and implementation of the frequency-independent damping into the computational model are the principal contributions of this article.
Effect of Curvature on the Behaviors of Confined Water Layers
Authors: Cui Zhongzhong , Li Dechang , Ji Baohua
Published: November 2015

The phase of confined water is ubiquitous in biology, materials science and nanotechnology. Recent studies showed that the spatial confinement influences the arrangement of water molecules and their dynamics. But the effect of confinement in a curved space has not been explored. In this study, we examine the effect of the curvature on the behaviors of confined water. We show that curved water monolayer, bilayer and triple layers can form within the inter-wall space of double-walled carbon nanotubes. We find that while the inter-wall distance affects the diffusion of water molecules along the axial direction of double-walled carbon nanotube, the curvature dominates the diffusion along the circumferential direction. We also find that the electric field helps to trap water molecules in the curved space. These results uncover the effect of curvature on the behaviors of confined water, and shed light on regulating the structure and dynamics of water at nanoscale.
The Emerging Private Sector in the Chinese Health System
Authors: QIAN Jiwei
Published: November 2015

The private sector is useful for addressing affordability and accessibility in the Chinese health system. However, the role of the private sector in health-care service delivery and health insurance is still limited in China. Strict regulations, insurance designation bias against private hospitals, insufficient risk-managing capacity and crowding-out effect of expanding social health insurance schemes have hampered private sector involvement.
Derivatives, Short Selling and US Equity and Bond Mutual Funds
Authors: Dezfouli Kaveh Moradi , Kryzanowski Lawrence
Published: November 2015

The use and effect of derivatives and short selling by US equity and bond open-end mutual funds are studied using a large and unique database. We find that the likelihood of their use is positively related to fund size, family size, and fund turnover for both fund types except for short selling by equity funds from larger families. Our findings suggest that funds that use derivatives exhibit significantly higher benchmark-adjusted performances based on both gross- and net-of-fees returns. This is done without adversely affecting market betas, net expense ratios (NERs), or brokerage fees as a proportion of total net assets (TNA). We find that for bond funds derivative use is negatively associated with non-systematic risk and short selling use is positively associated with total and systematic risk.
Promoting Peace Through Sustainable Development Goals: What Role for FOCAC?
Authors: Moller-Loswick Anna , Wheeler Thomas , Smith Richard , Mawowa Showers
Published: November 2015

After two years of discussion, UN member states have finally agreed on a new set of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which will replace the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and establish a global development framework for the next fifteen years. The SDGs which were formally adopted at the UN Substainable Development Summit on 25 September 2015. The Common African Position (CAP) calls for the SDGs to give adequate attention to peace and security, acknowledging the inextricable links between peace, security, stability, and development. While China has acknowledged the importance of peace for development, it initially voiced some skepticism over whether the issue should be addressed explicitly through the SDGs. Nonetheless, China has committed to coordinating its position with that of African countries and has now accepted the inclusion of Goal 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies. Indeed, China has already expressed its strong support for African peace and security as an enabler for development in other forums. This paper demonstrates how many of the commitments made in the last Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Action Plan (2013–2015) in fact overlap with many of the peace-related targets in the draft SDGs. This suggests that the upcoming 6th FOCAC meeting in South Africa in December 2015 could be an opportunity to discuss how the next Action Plan can serve as an implementation mechanism for the SDGs, particularly with regard to their focus on peace.
PKCα regulates TMEM16A-mediated Cl−secretion in human biliary cells
Authors: Dutta Amal K. , Khimji Al-Karim , Liu Songling , Karamysheva Zemfira , Fujita Akiko , Kresge Charles , Rockey Don C. , Feranchak Andrew P.
Published: November 2015

TMEM16A is a newly identified Ca2+-activated Cl−channel in biliary epithelial cells (BECs) that is important in biliary secretion. While extracellular ATP stimulates TMEM16A via binding P2 receptors and increasing intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i), the regulatory pathways have not been elucidated. Protein kinase C (PKC) contributes to ATP-mediated secretion in BECs, although its potential role in TMEM16A regulation is unknown. To determine whether PKCα regulates the TMEM16A-dependent membrane Cl−transport in BECs, studies were performed in human biliary Mz-cha-1 cells. Addition of extracellular ATP induced a rapid translocation of PKCα from the cytosol to the plasma membrane and activation of whole cell Ca2+-activated Cl−currents. Currents demonstrated outward rectification and reversal at 0 mV (properties consistent with TMEM16A) and were inhibited by either molecular (siRNA) or pharmacologic (PMA or Gö6976) inhibition of PKCα. Intracellular dialysis with recombinant PKCα activated Cl−currents with biophysical properties identical to TMEM16A in control cells but not in cells after transfection with TMEM16A siRNA. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that PKCα is coupled to ATP-stimulated TMEM16A activation in BECs. Targeting this ATP-Ca2+-PKCα signaling pathway may represent a therapeutic strategy to increase biliary secretion and promote bile formation.
Prognostic Impact of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with Advanced Low Rectal Cancer Treated with Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Nagasaki Toshiya , Akiyoshi Takashi , Fujimoto Yoshiya , Konishi Tsuyoshi , Nagayama Satoshi , Fukunaga Yosuke , Ueno Masashi
Published: November 2015

Background: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is considered an indicator of systemic inflammation and may predict prognosis in colorectal cancer. In this study, we examined the prognostic impact of NLR in patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) followed by surgery. Methods: From 2004 to 2012, we analyzed 201 consecutive patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer below the peritoneal reflection who underwent NACRT and curative resection. Blood samples were obtained before NACRT. NLRs were dichotomized using a cut-off value of 3.0, which was chosen based on receiver operating characteristic analysis and previous studies, and we analyzed their relationship with clinical outcomes. Results: Forty-four (21.9%) patients had a high NLR. Moreover, a high NLR was significantly associated with elevated carcinoembryonic antigen levels before NACRT (p = 0.0154). Multivariate analysis showed that a high NLR was independently associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio (HR) 3.38, p = 0.012). In contrast, a high NLR was not significantly associated with relapse-free survival (HR 1.073, p = 0.8438). The post-recurrence survival between patients with high and low NLRs was significantly different (p = 0.0370). Conclusions: A high NLR (≥3.0) prior to NACRT was independently associated with poor prognosis in patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer treated with NACRT and radical resection.
A Case of Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome Associated with a 46,XY Disorder of Sexual Development and Gonadal Dysgenesis
Authors: Calvel Pierre , Kusz-Zamelczyk Kamila , Makrythanasis Periklis , Janecki Damian , Borel Christelle , Conne Béatrice , Vannier Anne , Béna Frédérique , Gimelli Stefania , Fichna Piotr , Antonarakis Stylianos E. , Nef Serge , Jaruzelska Jadwiga
Published: November 2015

We report the case of a female patient suffering from a 46,XY disorder of sexual development (DSD) with complete gonadal dysgenesis and Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome (WDSTS). The coexistence of these 2 conditions has not yet been reported. Using whole exome sequencing and comparative genome hybridization array, we identified a de novo MLL/KMT2A gene nonsense mutation which explains the WDSTS phenotype. In addition, we discovered novel genetic variants, which could explain the testicular dysgenesis observed in the patient, a maternally inherited 167-kb duplication of DAAM2 and MOCS1 genes and a de novo LRRC33/NRROS gene mutation. These genes, some of which are expressed during mouse gonadal development, could be considered as potentially new candidate genes for DSD.
PROCESSO DE PROJETO EM EMPREENDIMENTOS IMOBILIÁRIOS: AVALIAÇÃO DE PROJETISTAS E CONSTRUTORES
Authors: Leite Kelma Pinheiro , Barros Neto José De Paula , Teixeira Marina , Claudino Camila
Published: November 2015

Este artigo apresenta os resultados da survey sobre o processo de projeto em projetos imobiliários na cidade de Fortaleza, Brasil. O objetivo principal é descrever a como projetistas e construtores avaliam o processo de projeto imobiliário, a fim de aprofundar a compreensão de suas expectativas e necessidades. A percepção dos profissionais ligados diretamente à produção de edificações é necessária para adaptação ao novo cenário de implantação de sistemas BIM. Percebe-se, também, que a migração para novos sistemas e o aumento da complexidade das relações e edificações requer novas visões quanto ao processo de projeto. Como resultado, foram identificadas oportunidades de melhoria do processo de desenvolvimento de produto imobiliário. Este estudo baseou-se no referencial teórico da literatura sobre pensamento enxuto, lean design, processo de projeto e desenvolvimento de produtos imobiliários. Os dados foram coletados através de 90 questionários preenchidos por projetistas e engenheiros de obra em incorporadoras e construtoras. As principais questões de insatisfação identificadas foram: retrabalho; planejamento deficiente do processo desenvolvimento de produto imobiliário; os prazos estipulados e compatibilização.
Biomarkers
Authors: Libby Peter , King Kevin
Published: November 2015

The use of biomarkers has proven utility in cardiovascular medicine and holds great promise for future advances, but their application requires considerable rigor in thinking and methodology. Numerous confounding factors can cloud the clinical and investigative uses of biomarkers. Yet, the thoughtful and critical use of biomarkers can doubtless aid discovery of new pathogenic pathways, identify novel therapeutic targets, and provide a bridge between the laboratory and the clinic. Biomarkers can provide diagnostic and prognostic tools to the practitioner. The careful application of biomarkers can also help design and guide clinical trials required to establish the efficacy of novel interventions to improve patient outcomes. Point of care testing, technological advances, such as microfluidic and wearable devices, and the power of omics approaches all promise to elevate the potential contributions of biomarkers to discovery science, translation, clinical trials, and the practice of cardiovascular medicine.