bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A global trait‐based approach to estimate leaf nitrogen functional allocation from observations
Authors: Ghimire Bardan , Riley William J. , Koven Charles D. , Kattge Jens , Rogers Alistair , Reich Peter B. , Wright Ian J. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractNitrogen is one of the most important nutrients for plant growth and a major constituent of proteins that regulate photosynthetic and respiratory processes. However, a comprehensive global analysis of nitrogen allocation in leaves for major processes with respect to different plant functional types (PFTs) is currently lacking. This study integrated observations from global databases with photosynthesis and respiration models to determine plant‐functional‐type‐specific allocation patterns of leaf nitrogen for photosynthesis (Rubisco, electron transport, light absorption) and respiration (growth and maintenance), and by difference from observed total leaf nitrogen, an unexplained “residual” nitrogen pool. Based on our analysis, crops partition the largest fraction of nitrogen to photosynthesis (57%) and respiration (5%) followed by herbaceous plants (44% and 4%). Tropical broadleaf evergreen trees partition the least to photosynthesis (25%) and respiration (2%) followed by needle‐leaved evergreen trees (28% and 3%). In trees (especially needle‐leaved evergreen and tropical broadleaf evergreen trees) a large fraction (70% and 73%, respectively) of nitrogen was not explained by photosynthetic or respiratory functions. Compared to crops and herbaceous plants, this large residual pool is hypothesized to emerge from larger investments in cell wall proteins, lipids, amino acids, nucleic acid, CO2 fixation proteins (other than Rubisco), secondary compounds, and other proteins. Our estimates are different from previous studies due to differences in methodology and assumptions used in deriving nitrogen allocation estimates. Unlike previous studies, we integrate and infer nitrogen allocation estimates across multiple PFTs, and report substantial differences in nitrogen allocation across different PFTs. The resulting pattern of nitrogen allocation provides insights on mechanisms that operate at a cellular scale within leaves, and can be integrated with ecosystem models to derive emergent properties of ecosystem productivity at local, regional, and global scales.
Effect of Operating Conditions on Cryogenic Carbon Dioxide Removal
Authors: Fazlollahi Farhad , Saeidi Samrand , Safdari Mohammad‐Saeed , Sarkari Majid , Klemeš Jiří J. , Baxter Larry L. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractIn this investigation, a natural‐gas (NG) treatment system for NG sources with high CO2 content is simulated experimentally and theoretically using Aspen Plus. The concept uses patented heat exchangers and a process design developed as part of the cryogenic carbon capture(CCC) process to remove enough CO2 to enable the treated gas to be handled without the modification of traditional NG equipment. Simultaneously, the process removes liquefied natural gas (LNG) very efficiently. This process provides a simpler alternative to the solvent‐based CO2 removal, absorbent drying, and cryogenic NG liquid extraction systems found in traditional NG processing. The data from an experimental bench‐scale apparatus verify the results of the simulations as a function of NG composition and pressure. Costing parameters, exergy loss, and heat‐exchanger efficiency are also discussed. The results confirm low exergy losses for bench‐scale apparatus. The system uses heat exchangers with efficiencies of more than 90 %. High pressure and low methane content in the NG result in high CO2 capture.
Postregistration monitoring of pesticides is urgently required to protect ecosystems
Authors: Vijver Martina G. , Hunting Ellard R. , Nederstigt Tom A.P. , Tamis Wil L.M. , van den Brink Paul J. , van Bodegom Peter M. 
Published: March 2017

Abstract

Current admission policies for pesticides follow a controlled experimental tiered risk assessment approach, giving results that are difficult to extrapolate to a real-world situation. Later analyses of compounds such as DDT and neonicotinoid pesticides clearly show that the actual chemical impacts frequently affect many more components of an ecosystem than a priori suggested by risk assessment. Therefore, to manage the actual risks for ecosystems imposed by manufactured compounds, it is proposed that current admission policies for chemicals be enriched by using postregistration monitoring. Such monitoring is essential to identify unexpected direct and indirect impacts on organisms by accounting for multiple propagation routes and exposures. Implementation of postregistration monitoring could build on existing monitoring networks. This approach would tackle the current policy impasse of compartment-based regulations versus exposure-based regulations, and, more importantly, would provide a safety lock for risk assessment across compartments and more likely ensure the protection of our natural environment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:860–865. © 2017 SETAC
Nanoparticulate TiO2‐mediated inhibition of the Wnt signaling pathway causes dendritic development disorder in cultured rat hippocampal neurons
Authors: Hong Fashui , Ze Yuguan , Zhou Yaoming , Hong Jie , Yu Xiaohon , Sheng Lei , Wang Ling 
Published: March 2017

AbstractTitanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are increasingly used in daily life, in industry, and in environmental clearing, but their potential neurodevelopmental toxicity has been highly debated. In this study, we explored whether TiO2 NPs inhibited development of dendritic morphology and identified possible molecular mechanisms associated with this inhibition in primary cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Results showed that TiO2 NPs decreased neurite length, the number of branches and the spine density, and impaired mitochondrial function in the developing neurons. Furthermore, TiO2 NPs significantly reduced the expression of several proteins involved in canonical Wnt3a/β‐catenin signaling including Wnt3a, β‐catenin, p‐GSK‐3β, and CyclinD1 and conversely, elevated GSK‐3β expression. In addition to altering expression of proteins involved in canonical Wnt3a/β‐catenin signaling, TiO2 NPs decreased expression of proteins invovled in non‐canonical Wnt signaling, including, MKLP1, CRMP3, ErbB4, and KIF17. Taken together, these results indicate that suppression of dendritic development caused by TiO2 NPs is associated with inhibition of activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway or non‐canonical Wnt pathway‐induced expression of microtubule cytoskeletal components in the developing neurons. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 2139–2149, 2017.
Germanium Fabry‐Perot interferometer heated with a ND:YAG laser
Authors: Zongxin Zhang , Yuxin Leng , Xiaoming Lu , Cheng Wang , Guande Wang 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTWe report on a germanium Fabry‐Perot interferometer heated with a Nd:YAG laser. The transmission property of the laser‐heated germanium Fabry‐Perot interferometer has been investigated experimentally and theoretically. The transmission of CO2 laser through the germanium Fabry‐Perot interferometer varied with Nd:YAG laser heating. The theoretical results are in good agreement with the experimental results. The technique of laser‐heated germanium Fabry‐Perot interferometry is promising for applications in laser modulation and detection. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1009–1012, 2017
Compact monopole MIMO antenna for 5G application
Authors: Meng Guan Tan , Rahim S.K.A. 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTIn this project, a compact monopoles Multiple‐Input‐Multiple‐Output MIMO antenna with size 40 × 42 mm2 that operates at 7 GHz is designed and proposed for 5th Generation mobile networks (5G) application. The antenna is built by using FR‐4 substrate and it consists of two planar antenna elements which arranged orthogonally to provide a good isolation between them. To further enhance the isolation and decrease the mutual coupling effect, a rod‐like parasite element is added in the design. Initial simulation result shows that the antenna can operate from 4 GHz to 9 GHz while measurement result proves that it can operate from 5.5 GHz to 9 GHz. Both results show that isolation is below −20 dB. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1074–1077, 2017
Performance analysis for W‐band antenna alignment using accurate mechanical beam steering
Authors: Morales Álvaro , Rodríguez Sebastián , Gallardo Omar , Vegas Olmos Juan José , Monroy Idelfonso Tafur 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTThis article presents a study of antenna alignment impact on bit error rate for a wireless link between two directive W‐band horn antennas where one of them is mechanically steered by a Stewart platform. Such a technique is applied to find the optimal alignment between transmitter and receiver with an accuracy of 1° both in azimuth and elevation angles. The maximum degree of misalignment which can be tolerated is also reported for different values of optical power in the generation of W‐band signals by photonic up‐conversion. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1125–1128, 2017
A novel fractal antenna based on the Sierpinski structure for super wide‐band applications
Authors: Figueroa‐Torres Cruz Ángel , Medina‐Monroy José Luis , Lobato‐Morales Humberto , Chávez‐Pérez Ricardo Arturo , Calvillo‐Téllez Andrés 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTIn this article, a novel structure of a planar monopole antenna for Super Wide‐band applications is proposed. The structure is based on the complementary Sierpinski triangle surrounded by two semi‐circular sectors. The ground plane of the antenna has been modified including some slots to improve the operating bandwidth and coupling. The simulated and experimental results show that the antenna achieves a ratio impedance bandwidth >15:1 (from 1.68 to 26 GHz) for S11 ≤ −10dB. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 59:1148–1153, 2017
Low‐Dose Naloxone for Prophylaxis of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Barrons Robert W. , Woods Joseph Andrew 
Published: March 2017

Study ObjectiveTo determine whether postoperative administration of low‐dose intravenous naloxone decreases the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and its impact on postoperative opioid requirements and pain scores.DesignMeta‐analysis of nine randomized controlled trials.PatientsA total of 946 adult and pediatric patients who received low‐dose intravenous naloxone for 24 hours after various surgeries.Measurements and Main ResultsSystemic literature searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Evidence‐Based Medicine Reviews, PubMed, and OvidMEDLINEdatabases were conducted. Among the relevant studies, data extraction and bias assessment determined the trials for inclusion in this meta‐analysis. Nine randomized controlled trials met inclusion criteria. Naloxone demonstrated a reduced risk of postoperative nausea (risk ratio [RR] 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.67–0.95, p=0.01) in a pooled analysis of eight of the nine studies. However, naloxone did not decrease the risk of postoperative vomiting in a collective assessment of all nine trials (RR0.83, 95%CI0.63–1.09, p=0.18). Subgroup analysis of continuous‐infusion naloxone found further reductions in nausea and vomiting, but these findings were limited to 186 of the 946 patients. Three studies recorded antiemetic doses and found an overall dose reduction (RR0.64, 95%CI0.42–0.96, p=0.03). Compared with controls, naloxone prophylaxis ofPONVdid not significantly change cumulative postoperative opioid needs (mean difference 0.29 mg, 95%CI−3.55 to 4.13 mg, p=0.88) among five trials, nor visual analog scale pain scores (mean difference −0.11, 95%CI−0.26 to 0.05, p=0.18) in six studies.ConclusionThis pooled analysis of data suggests that low‐dose naloxone plays no role in preventingPONV, while exhibiting no significant effects on postoperative opioid needs and pain scores. The reduction demonstrated in postoperative nausea did not translate into decreases in postoperative vomiting.
Developments in synthesis, characterization, and self‐assembly of polycarbodiimide systems
Authors: Mammoottil Nimmy R. , Reuther James F. , Siriwardane Dumindika A. , Kulikov Oleg V. , Novak Bruce M. 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTDescribed herein is a comprehensive survey on the most recent advancements in polycarbodiimide synthetic methodologies, structure determination, property design, and self‐assembly. In particular, the 15N‐isotopic enrichment of polycarbodiimides is detailed along with the use of 15N NMR to identify the regioregularity and mechanism of chiroptical switching in polycarbodiimides. Furthermore, the new Ni(II) mediated “living” polymerization is explained along with its utilization in the incorporation of polycarbodiimides into block copolymers, graft copolymers, and star polymers. Finally, we review the recent discoveries focusing on the highly tunable self‐assembly behaviors of polycarbodiimide homopolymers and copolymers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2915–2934
Hydrogen Production on Ag‐Pd/TiO2 Bimetallic Catalysts: Is there a Combined Effect of Surface Plasmon Resonance with Schottky Mechanism on the Photo‐Catalytic Activity?
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad A. , Al‐Oufi Maher , Wahab Ahmed K. , Anjum Dalaver , Idriss Hicham 
Published: March 2017

AbstractDespite many observations that plasmonics can enhance photocatalytic reactions, their relative role in the overall reaction rate is not thoroughly investigated. Here we report that silver nanoparticles contribution in the reaction rate by its plasmonic effect is negligible when compared to that of Pd (Schottky effect). To conduct the study a series of Ag−Pd/TiO2 catalysts have been prepared, characterized and tested for H2 production from water in the presence of an organic sacrificial agent. Pd was chosen as a standard high work function metal needed for the Schottky junction to pump away electrons from the conduction band of the semiconductor and Ag (whose work function is ca. 1 eV lower than that of Pd) for its high plasmonic resonance response at the edge of the bandgap of TiO2. While H2 production rates showed linear dependency on plasmonic response of Ag in the Pd−Ag series, the system performed less than that of pure Pd. In other words, the plasmonic contribution of Ag in the Ag−Pd/TiO2 catalyst for hydrogen production, while confirmed using different excitation energies, is small. Therefore, the “possible” synergistic effect of plasmonic (in the case of Ag) and Schottky‐mechanism (in the case of Pd) is minor when compared to that of Schottky‐effect alone.
Marriage by Capture in the Book of Judges
Authors: Southwood Katherine 
Published: March 2017

In this book, Katherine E. Southwood offers a new approach to interpreting Judges 21. Breaking away from traditional interpretations of kingship, feminism, or comparisons with Greek or Roman mythology, she explores the concepts of marriage, ethnicity, rape, and power as means of ethnic preservation and exclusion. She also exposes the many reasons why marriage by capture occurred during the post-exilic period. Judges 21 served as a warning against compromise - submission to superficial unity between the Israelites and the Benjaminites. Any such unity would result in drastic changes in the character, culture, and values of the ethnic group 'Israel'. The chapter encouraged post-exilic audiences to socially construct those categorised as 'Benjaminites' as foreigners who do not belong within the group, thereby silencing doubts about the merits of unity.
Rhinoceros horns in trade on the Myanmar–China border
Authors: Shepherd Chris R. , Gray Thomas N.E. , Nijman Vincent 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe illegal trade in rhinoceros horn, driven largely by the demand from East and South-east Asia, is a major impediment to the conservation of rhinoceroses globally. We surveyed the town of Mong La, in eastern Myanmar on the border with China, for the presence of rhinoceros horn. No rhinoceros horn was observed in 2006 or 2009, and other African wildlife was rare or absent. During visits in 2014 and 2015 we observed two horns, presumed to be of the white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum, and one horn tip, small discs from the horn core, horn powder and horn bangles. Shops selling rhinoceros horn all specialized in high-end and high-value wildlife, mostly for decorative purposes, including whole elephant tusks, carved elephant ivory, carved hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius canines, and tiger Panthera tigris skins. Organized criminal syndicates are involved in the wildlife trade between Myanmar and Africa, possibly via China. Mong La's geographical position on the border with China, limited control by the central Myanmar Government, and the presence of the Chinese entertainment industry provide ideal conditions for a global wildlife trade hub catering for the Chinese market. Solutions require more intense collaboration between the Myanmar and Chinese authorities to curb the trade in African rhinoceros horn in this part of Asia.
RACING THROUGH THE HALLS OF CONGRESS
Authors: Jones James R. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractAlthough there is an impressive body of research on the U.S. Congress, there has been limited discussion about the central role race plays in the organization of this political institution. While some scholars have documented Congress’ racist past, less is known about the present significance of race in the federal legislature. Throughout the day, African Americans routinelynodto one another in the halls of the Capitol, and consider the Black nod as a common cultural gesture. However, data from over sixty in-depth interviews suggest there is an additional layer of meaning to the Black nod in Congress. From the microlevel encounters, I observed and examined, I interpret the nod as more than a gesture that occurs in a matter of seconds between colleagues or even among perfect strangers in the halls of Congress. The Black nod encompasses and is shaped by labor organized along racial lines, a history of racial subordination, and powerful perceptions of race in the post-Civil-Rights era on the meso-, and macrolevels. Using this interpretive foundation, this article will show how the nod is an adaptive strategy of Black staffers that renders them visible in an environment where they feel socially invisible. The nod becomes an external expression of their racialized professional identity. I argue that the congressional workplace is a raced political institution and that the microlevel encounters I observed delineate and reproduce its racial boundaries. This article represents perhaps the first sociological study of Congress and provides an unprecedented view into its inner workings and the social dimensions that organize workplace relationships.
Vitamin D3 inhibits micro RNA-17-92 to promote specific immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Yu Zhi-Jian , Zeng Lu , Luo Xiang-Qian , Geng Xiao-Rui , Xu Rui , Chen Kun , Yang Gui , Luo Xi , Liu Zhi-Qiang , Liu Zhi-Gang , Liu Da-Bo , Yang Ping-Chang , Li Hua-Bin 
Published: March 2017

AbstractIt is recognized that T helper 2 (Th2) polarization plays a critical role in a large number of immune disorders. Yet, the remedies for reconciling the established Th2 polarization are still limited currently. Published data indicate that micro RNA-17-92 cluster is associated with the skewed immune response; 25 vitamin D3 (VD3) can regulate multiple bioactivities in the body. This study tests a hypothesis that VD3 facilitates the effect of specific immunotherapy (SIT) on Th2 response. We observed that treatment with either SIT or VD3 alleviated AR symptoms as well as reduced serum levels of specific IgE and T helper (Th) 2 cytokines, suppressed miR-19a (one of the members of the miR-17-92 cluster) and increased IL-10 in peripheral B cells, which was further improved in those AR patients treated with both SIT and VD3. The expression of miR-19a and IL-10 was significantly negatively correlated with each other in peripheral B cells of AR patients. Metabolites of VD3 formed a complex with retinoid acid receptor to repress the expression of miR-19a in B cells. We conclude that administration with VD3 promotes the effect of SIT on suppression of AR via repressing the expression of miR-19a in peripheral B cells.
Prognostic and Predictive Effects of Positive Lymph Node Number or Ratio in NSCLC
Authors: Ding Nan , Pang ZhaoFei , Zhang Xiangwei , Huang Cuicui , Yang Yufan , Liu Qi , Du Jiajun 
Published: March 2017

AbstractIn the eighth TNM staging system proposal for NSCLC recently, classification of N stage is based on anatomical position of positive lymph nodes. We aimed to expand the sample volume to identify the value of positive lymph node number or ratio in prognosis and predictive effect for postoperative radiation. Clinicopathological characters of 109026 NSCLC patients were collected from the SEER Database. Kaplan-Meier curves and cox regression methods were used for survival analysis. Compared with positive lymph node number equal to 0, 1–3 and >3 groups were independent prognostic factors (1–3: HR 2.856, p < 0.001; >3: HR 3.358, p < 0.001), so as the 0–50% and >50% positive lymph node ratio groups (0–50%: HR 2.124, p < 0.001; >50%: HR 3.358, p < 0.001). And in the groups of N2&positive lymph node number ≥4 and N2&positive lymph node ratio >50%, postoperative radiation related to positive prognosis of NSCLC patients. In conclusion, positive lymph node number or ratio was associated with survival as an independent indicator in NSCLC. They also had predictive effects for postoperative radiation, while N nodal stage not.
Cadmium exposure and its association with serum uric acid and hyperuricemia
Authors: Sun Honglin , Wang Ningjian , Chen Chi , Nie Xiaomin , Han Bing , Li Qin , Zhu Chunfang , Chen Yi , Xia Fangzhen , Chen Yingchao , Zhai Hualing , Jiang Boren , Hu Bin , Lu Yingli 
Published: March 2017

AbstractFew studies have investigated the association between serum uric acid (UA) and cadmium exposure. Our previous study revealed a significantly higher blood cadmium (CdB) level in the Chinese population compared to populations in other countries. To determine whether CdB in Chinese adults is associated with serum UA and hyperuricemia, 2996 participants from the cross-sectional SPECT-China study were recruited. CdB was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Hyperuricemia was defined as a serum UA concentration ≥416.4 μmol/L for men and ≥356.9 μmol/L for women. Regression analyses were used to analyze the association of CdB with serum UA and hyperuricemia. We found that the median CdB level was higher in men with hyperuricemia (2.40 μg/L) than in men without hyperuricemia (1.98 μg/L, P < 0.05). A positive relationship between serum UA and CdB was found in Chinese men after adjusting for the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), current smoking status, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and body mass index and in participants with eGFR > 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2. Further, the odds ratio of hyperuricemia increased with increasing CdB quartiles (P for trend < 0.05) in men. In conclusion, CdB was positively related to the serum UA level and to hyperuricemia in Chinese men but not in Chinese women.