bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dry erosion wear performance of Inconel 718 microwave clad
Authors: Zafar S. , Bansal A. , Sharma A. K. , Arora N. , Ramesh C. S.
Published: September 2014

This paper reports on the dry erosive wear performance of Inconel 718 clads deposited on SS-304 substrates through microwave hybrid heating technique. Clads were deposited using a domestic microwave applicator at 2·45 GHz and 900 W. The microstructural observations of the Inconel 718 clad indicate good metallurgical bonding with the substrate and revealed no visible interfacial cracking. The microhardness of the clads was assessed using a Vicker's microhardness tester and the average microhardness in the clads was 564±22 HV. Erosive wear performance of the clads was evaluated using an air jet erosion test setup as per ASTM G76 standard. The effect of varying impact angle was studied; the results have been discussed with the help of SEM images of the worn surfaces. It was observed that the improved erosive performance of the Inconel 718 clads was due to presence of strengthening intermetallic phases (Ni3Ti, Ni3Al) in the tough Ni–Fe–Cr matrix.
High temperature oxidation behaviour of Al2O3/Al composite coating on γ-TiAl
Authors: Xu Y. , Liang W. , Miao Q. , Jiang Q. , Ren B. , Yao Z. , Zhang P. , Wei D.
Published: September 2014

An Al2O3/Al composite coating was introduced on the substrate γ-TiAl alloy by magnetron sputtering. The isothermal oxidation behaviour of the coated γ-TiAl alloy was investigated at 1000°C. The results suggested that the Al2O3/Al composite coating improved the oxidation resistance of γ-TiAl alloy at 1000°C air exposure. No spallation or crack was observed in the oxide scale of coated specimen, which was composed of α-Al2O3 and TiAl3 after the oxidation test. The outward Al diffusion from interlayer provided sufficient Al source for the formation of Al2O3 layer in the coating surface during the high temperature oxidation test. As an active intermetallic element with Ti, Al suppressed the outward of Ti effectively due to the formation of Ti–Al intermetallics. Owing to inward and outward diffusion, the Al interlayer was consumed after 100 h oxidation test and a Ti–Al interdiffusion zone was formed, which was beneficial for the adhesion between coating and substrate.
Microstructure and electrochemical properties of plasma tantalumising on low carbon steel
Authors: Wang Y. , Zhang P.-Z. , Wu H.-Y. , Wei X.-F. , Bi Q. , Song J.
Published: September 2014

Tantalum coating was successfully prepared onto Q235 low carbon steel substrate by a double glow plasma technique to improve the corrosion resistance. The microstructure and chemical composition of the coating were investigated by SEM, energy dispersive spectrometry and X-ray diffraction. The tantalum coating consisted of deposition layer, and the diffusion layer is ∼33 μm in thickness, metallurgically adhered to the substrate. Nanoindentation tests were used to measure nanomechanical properties of the coating and the substrate. A comparative study of the corrosion resistance of the bared and tantalum coated steel was conducted by electrochemical measurements in 3·5 wt-%HCl solution respectively. The results show that the coated samples exhibit much higher hardness and better anticorrosion performance than the uncoated ones. The excellent corrosion resistance of tantalum coated steel was attributed to the low porosity for the coating and a compact, and the stable tantalum oxidation film formed on the surface of the steel to prevent the substrate contact with hydrochloric acid electrolyte.
Recombinant factor VIII products and inhibitor development in previously untreated boys with severe hemophilia A
Authors: Calvez Thierry , Chambost Hervé , Claeyssens-Donadel Ségolène , d’Oiron Roseline , Goulet Véronique , Guillet Benoît , Héritier Virginie , Milien Vanessa , Rothschild Chantal , Roussel-Robert Valérie , Vinciguerra Christine , Goudemand Jenny
Published: September 2014

Key Points

A currently marketed rFVIII product is associated with a higher risk of inhibitor development in boys with severe hemophilia A. This result, validated by extensive sensitivity analyses, confirms a recently published study and cannot be explained by identified biases.
Overview of emerging nonvolatile memory technologies
Authors: Meena Jagan Singh , Sze Simon Min , Chand Umesh , Tseng Tseung-Yuen
Published: September 2014

Nonvolatile memory technologies in Si-based electronics date back to the 1990s. Ferroelectric field-effect transistor (FeFET) was one of the most promising devices replacing the conventional Flash memory facing physical scaling limitations at those times. A variant of charge storage memory referred to as Flash memory is widely used in consumer electronic products such as cell phones and music players while NAND Flash-based solid-state disks (SSDs) are increasingly displacing hard disk drives as the primary storage device in laptops, desktops, and even data centers. The integration limit of Flash memories is approaching, and many new types of memory to replace conventional Flash memories have been proposed. Emerging memory technologies promise new memories to store more data at less cost than the expensive-to-build silicon chips used by popular consumer gadgets including digital cameras, cell phones and portable music players. They are being investigated and lead to the future as potential alternatives to existing memories in future computing systems. Emerging nonvolatile memory technologies such as magnetic random-access memory (MRAM), spin-transfer torque random-access memory (STT-RAM), ferroelectric random-access memory (FeRAM), phase-change memory (PCM), and resistive random-access memory (RRAM) combine the speed of static random-access memory (SRAM), the density of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), and the nonvolatility of Flash memory and so become very attractive as another possibility for future memory hierarchies. Many other new classes of emerging memory technologies such as transparent and plastic, three-dimensional (3-D), and quantum dot memory technologies have also gained tremendous popularity in recent years. Subsequently, not an exaggeration to say that computer memory could soon earn the ultimate commercial validation for commercial scale-up and production the cheap plastic knockoff. Therefore, this review is devoted to the rapidly developing new class of memory technologies and scaling of scientific procedures based on an investigation of recent progress in advanced Flash memory devices.
Genomic data sharing for translational research and diagnostics
Authors: Robinson Peter N
Published: September 2014

Translational genomics is changing, not only in the technology used but also in the sharing of data. The enormous potential for genomics technologies to improve patient care has been recognized, but it will not be reached unless powerful but secure data-sharing technologies are developed. A recent study demonstrates the power of federated queries, in which sequence variants can be searched simultaneously in files distributed over multiple centers.
Cytokine profiles in the joint depend on pathology, but are different between synovial fluid, cartilage tissue and cultured chondrocytes
Authors: Tsuchida Anika I , Beekhuizen Michiel , `t Hart Marieke C , Radstake Timothy RDJ , Dhert Wouter JA , Saris Daniel BF , van Osch Gerjo JVM , Creemers Laura B
Published: September 2014

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate whether profiles of several soluble mediators in synovial fluid and cartilage tissue are pathology-dependent and how their production is related to in vitro tissue formation by chondrocytes from diseased and healthy tissue.

Methods

Samples were obtained from donors without joint pathology (n = 39), with focal defects (n = 65) and osteoarthritis (n = 61). A multiplex bead assay (Luminex) was performed measuring up to 21 cytokines: Interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-1RA, IL-4, IL-6, IL-6Rα, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α, Interferon (IFN)γ, oncostatin M (OSM), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), adiponectin, leptin, monocyte chemotactic factor (MCP)1, RANTES, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), vascular growth factor (VEGF).

Results

In synovial fluid of patients with cartilage pathology, IL-6, IL-13, IFNγ and OSM levels were higher than in donors without joint pathology (P ≤0.001). IL-13, IFNγ and OSM were also different between donors with cartilage defects and OA (P <0.05). In cartilage tissue from debrided defects, VEGF was higher than in non-pathological or osteoarthritic joints (P ≤0.001). IL-1α, IL-6, TNFα and OSM concentrations (in ng/ml) were markedly higher in cartilage tissue than in synovial fluid (P <0.01). Culture of chondrocytes generally led to a massive induction of most cytokines (P <0.001). Although the release of inflammatory cytokines was also here dependent on the pathological condition (P <0.001) the actual profiles were different from tissue or synovial fluid and between non-expanded and expanded chondrocytes. Cartilage formation was lower by healthy unexpanded chondrocytes than by osteoarthritic or defect chondrocytes.

Conclusions

Several pro-inflammatory, pro-angiogenic and pro-repair cytokines were elevated in joints with symptomatic cartilage defects and/or osteoarthritis, although different cytokines were elevated in synovial fluid compared to tissue or cells. Hence a clear molecular profile was evident dependent on disease status of the joint, which however changed in composition depending on the biological sample analysed. These alterations did not affect in vitro tissue formation with these chondrocytes, as this was at least as effective or even better compared to healthy chondrocytes.
Statin initiation and treatment non-adherence following a first acute myocardial infarction in patients with inflammatory rheumatic disease versus the general population
Authors: Bohensky Megan , Tacey Mark , Brand Caroline , Sundararajan Vijaya , Wicks Ian , Van Doornum Sharon
Published: September 2014

Introduction

To compare statin initiation and treatment non-adherence following a first acute myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with inflammatory rheumatic disease ( IRD) and the general population.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a population-based linked database. Cases of first MI from July 2001 to June 2009 were identified based on International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10-AM) codes. Statin initiation and adherence was identified based on pharmaceutical claims records. Logistic regression was used to assess the odds of statin initiation by IRD status. Non-adherence was assessed as the time to first treatment gap using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

There were 18,518 individuals with an index MI over the time period surviving longer than 30 days, of whom 415 (2.2%) were IRD patients. The adjusted odds of receiving a statin by IRD status was significantly lower (OR =0.69, 95% CI: 0.55 to 0.86) compared to the general population. No association between IRD status and statin non-adherence was identified (hazard ratio (HR) =1.12, 95% CI: 0.82 to 1.52).

Conclusions

Statin initiation was significantly lower for people with IRD conditions compared to the general population. Once initiated on statins, the proportion of IRD patients who adhered to treatment was similar to the general population. Given the burden of cardiovascular disease and excess mortality in IRD patients, encouraging the use of evidence-based therapies is critical for ensuring the best outcomes in this high risk group.
Preconditioning of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by prolyl hydroxylase inhibition enhances cell survival and angiogenesis in vitro and after transplantation into the ischemic heart of rats
Authors: Liu Xian-Bao , Wang Jian-An , Ji Xiao-Ya , Yu Shan Ping , Wei Ling
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Poor cell survival and limited functional benefits have restricted the efficacy of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in the treatment of myocardial infarction. We showed recently that hypoxia preconditioning of BMSCs and neural progenitor cells before transplantation can enhance the survival and therapeutic properties of these cells in the ischemic brain and heart. The present investigation explores a novel strategy of preconditioning BMSCs using the Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-α) prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) to enhance their survival and therapeutic efficacy after transplantation into infarcted myocardium.

Methods

BMSCs from green fluorescent protein transgenic rats were cultured with or without 1 mM DMOG for 24 hours in complete culture medium before transplantation. Survival and angiogenic factors were evaluated in vitro by trypan blue staining, Western blotting, and tube formation test. In an ischemic heart model of rats, BMSCs with and without DMOG preconditioning were intramyocardially transplanted into the peri-infarct region 30 minutes after permanent myocardial ischemia. Cell death was measured 24 hours after engraftment. Heart function, angiogenesis and infarct size were measured 4 weeks later.

Results

In DMOG preconditioned BMSCs (DMOG-BMSCs), the expression of survival and angiogenic factors including HIF-1α, vascular endothelial growth factor, glucose transporter 1 and phospho-Akt were significantly increased. In comparison with control cells, DMOG-BMSCs showed higher viability and enhanced angiogenesis in both in vitro and in vivo assays. Transplantation of DMOG-BMSCs reduced heart infarct size and promoted functional benefits of the cell therapy.

Conclusions

We suggest that DMOG preconditioning enhances the survival capability of BMSCs and paracrine effects with increased differentiation potential. Prolyl hydroxylase inhibition is an effective and feasible strategy to enhance therapeutic efficacy and efficiency of BMSC transplantation therapy after heart ischemia.
Single-cell analyses of regulatory network perturbations using enhancer-targeting TALEs suggest novel roles for PU.1 during haematopoietic specification
Authors: Wilkinson Adam C. , Kawata Viviane K. S. , Schütte Judith , Gao Xuefei , Antoniou Stella , Baumann Claudia , Woodhouse Steven , Hannah Rebecca , Tanaka Yosuke , Swiers Gemma , Moignard Victoria , Fisher Jasmin , Hidetoshi Shimauchi , Tijssen Marloes R. , de Bruijn Marella F. T. R. , Liu Pentao , Göttgens Berthold
Published: September 2014

Transcription factors (TFs) act within wider regulatory networks to control cell identity and fate. Numerous TFs, including Scl (Tal1) and PU.1 (Spi1), are known regulators of developmental and adult haematopoiesis, but how they act within wider TF networks is still poorly understood. Transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) are a novel class of genetic tool based on the modular DNA-binding domains of Xanthomonas TAL proteins, which enable DNA sequence-specific targeting and the manipulation of endogenous gene expression. Here, we report TALEs engineered to target the PU.1-14kb and Scl+40kb transcriptional enhancers as efficient new tools to perturb the expression of these key haematopoietic TFs. We confirmed the efficiency of these TALEs at the single-cell level using high-throughput RT-qPCR, which also allowed us to assess the consequences of both PU.1 activation and repression on wider TF networks during developmental haematopoiesis. Combined with comprehensive cellular assays, these experiments uncovered novel roles for PU.1 during early haematopoietic specification. Finally, transgenic mouse studies confirmed that the PU.1-14kb element is active at sites of definitive haematopoiesis in vivo and PU.1 is detectable in haemogenic endothelium and early committing blood cells. We therefore establish TALEs as powerful new tools to study the functionality of transcriptional networks that control developmental processes such as early haematopoiesis.
Microbial imbalance and intestinal pathologies: connections and contributions
Authors: Yang Ye , Jobin Christian
Published: September 2014

Microbiome analysis has identified a state of microbial imbalance (dysbiosis) in patients with chronic intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer. The bacterial phylum Proteobacteria is often overrepresented in these individuals, with Escherichia coli being the most prevalent species. It is clear that a complex interplay between the host, bacteria and bacterial genes is implicated in the development of these intestinal diseases. Understanding the basic elements of these interactions could have important implications for disease detection and management. Recent studies have revealed that E. coli utilizes a complex arsenal of virulence factors to colonize and persist in the intestine. Some of these virulence factors, such as the genotoxin colibactin, were found to promote colorectal cancer in experimental models. In this Review, we summarize key features of the dysbiotic states associated with chronic intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer, and discuss how the dysregulated interplay between host and bacteria could favor the emergence of E. coli with pathological traits implicated in these pathologies.
Cytotoxic Monocarbocyclic Sesterterpenoids from a Marine Sponge Luffariella sp.
Authors: Su Tzu-Rong , Liao Zuo-Jian , Lu Mei-Chin , Wu Yu-Jen , Su Jui-Hsin
Published: September 2014

Six new monocarbocyclic sesterterpenoids, luffalides A–F 1–6, together with four known sesterterpenes 7–10, were isolated from a marine sponge Luffariella sp. The structures of compounds 1–6 were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data analysis (NMR and CD) and comparison of the spectroscopic data with those of known analogues. Among these new metabolites, compounds 1–5 are rarely found in monocarbocyclic sesterterpenoids possessing a 1-isopropenyl-2-methylcyclopentane ring system. Evaluation of the cytotoxicities showed that compound 10 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against HL-60, MOLT-4 and K-562 cell lines, with IC50 values of 0.54, 0.32, and 0.96 µM, respectively. Moreover, compound 9 also showed significant HL-60 and MOLT-4 inhibitory activity, with IC50 values of 1.87 and 1.13 µM.
The Activity of Benzyl and Allyl α-H Sites in p-Cresol-grafted Fluorinated Poly(aryl ether oxadiazole) toward the Bromination Reaction
Authors: Zhao Yang , Li Xue , Wang Shubo , Li Weiwei , Zhang Xuefei , Xie Xiaofeng , Chai Chunpeng , Luo Yunjun , Ramani Vijay K
Published: September 2014

The energy barrier for the bromination reaction of the benzyl α-H and allyl α-H sites of p-cresol-grafted fluorinated poly(aryl ether oxadiazole) was obtained using density functional theory calculations. The simulation results indicated that the energy barrier for the bromination reaction at the benzyl α-H site was 80.6 kcal mol−1, while the corresponding value for the allyl α-H site was 88.4 kcal mol−1, indicating that the former site was likely to be selectively brominated. This was confirmed by the bromination of p-cresol-grafted fluorinated poly(aryl ether oxadiazole) followed by 1H NMR characterization. This result suggests that upon derivatizing benzyl α-H sites with a cation group (to yield an anion-exchange membrane), the allyl α-H sites would remain free for subsequent crosslinking. This result has positive implications for the synthesis of robust and crosslinked anion-exchange membranes based on this platform.
An Empirical Analysis of the Impact of Pre-Release Movie Piracy on Box Office Revenue
Authors: Ma Liye , Montgomery Alan L. , Singh Param Vir , Smith Michael D.
Published: September 2014

Digital distribution channels raise many new challenges for managers in the media industry. This is particularly true for movie studios where high-value content can be stolen and released through illegitimate digital channels, even prior to the release of the movie in legal channels. In response to this potential threat, movie studios have spent millions of dollars to protect their content from unauthorized distribution throughout the lifecycle of films. They have focused their efforts on the pre-release period under the assumption that pre-release piracy could be particularly harmful for a movie’s success.

However, surprisingly, there has been little rigorous research to analyze whether, and how much, pre-release movie piracy diminishes legitimate sales. In this paper, we analyze this question using data collected from a unique Internet file-sharing site. We find that, on average, pre-release piracy causes a 19.1% decrease in revenue compared to piracy that occurs post-release.

Our study contributes to the growing literature on piracy and digital media consumption by presenting evidence of the impact of Internet-based movie piracy on sales and by analyzing pre-release piracy, a setting that is distinct from much of the existing literature.
Research Note—The Allure of Homophily in Social Media: Evidence from Investor Responses on Virtual Communities
Authors: Gu Bin , Konana Prabhudev , Raghunathan Rajagopal , Chen Hsuanwei Michelle
Published: September 2014

Millions of people participate in online social media to exchange and share information. Presumably, such information exchange could improve decision making and provide instrumental benefits to the participants. However, to benefit from the information access provided by online social media, the participant will have to overcome the allure of homophily—which refers to the propensity to seek interactions with others of similar status (e.g., religion, education, income, occupation) or values (e.g., attitudes, beliefs, and aspirations). This research assesses the extent to which social media participants exhibit homophily (versus heterophily) in a unique context—virtual investment communities (VICs). We study the propensity of investors in seeking interactions with others with similar sentiments in VICs and identify theoretically important and meaningful conditions under which homophily is attenuated. To address this question, we used a discrete choice model to analyze 682,781 messages on Yahoo! Finance message boards for 29 Dow Jones stocks and assess how investors select a particular thread to respond. Our results revealed that, despite the benefits from heterophily, investors are not immune to the allure of homophily in interactions in VICs. The tendency to exhibit homophily is attenuated by an investor’s experience in VICs, the amount of information in the thread, but amplified by stock volatility. The paper discusses important implications for practice.
Editorial—Big Data, Data Science, and Analytics: The Opportunity and Challenge for IS Research
Authors: Agarwal Ritu , Dhar Vasant
Published: September 2014

We address key questions related to the explosion of interest in the emerging fields of big data, analytics, and data science. We discuss the novelty of the fields and whether the underlying questions are fundamentally different, the strengths that the information systems (IS) community brings to this discourse, interesting research questions for IS scholars, the role of predictive and explanatory modeling, and how research in this emerging area should be evaluated for contribution and significance.
Incorporating Unusual Fonts and Planned Mistakes in Study Materials to Increase Business Student Focus and Retention
Authors: Weltman David , Eakin Mark
Published: September 2014

New studies indicate that incorporating planned difficulties such as unusual font styles in study material forces students to focus and concentrate more. In our experiment 155 students under different instructors learn a core topic in operations management in an active learning environment. One group of students in each class used a standard version of the study materials while two other groups used a modified version incorporating an unusual (difficult-to-read) font or planned mistakes. Students with the unusual font materials scored highest on a post-workshop comprehension test. Students who had workshop materials with pedagogical mistakes scored second followed by students in the control group. Further, it was observed that students in the control group deceived themselves with respect to sense of material mastery.
On the Multichannel Rendezvous Problem: Fundamental Limits, Optimal Hopping Sequences, and Bounded Time-to-Rendezvous
Authors: Chang Cheng-Shang , Liao Wanjiun , Lien Ching-Min
Published: September 2014

One of the fundamental problems in a cognitive radio network, known as the multichannel rendezvous problem, is for two secondary users to find a common channel that is not blocked by primary users. The basic idea for solving such a problem in most works in the literature is for the two users to select their own channel hopping sequences and then rendezvous when they both hop to a common unblocked channel at the same time. In this paper, we focus on the fundamental limits of the multichannel rendezvous problem and formulate such a problem as a constrained optimization problem, where the selection of the random hopping sequences of the two secondary users must satisfy certain constraints. We derive various lower bounds for the expected (respectively, maximum) time-to-rendezvous under certain constraints. For some of these lower bounds, we are also able to construct optimal channel hopping sequences that achieve the lower bounds. Inspired by the constructions of quorum systems and relative difference sets, our constructions of the channel hopping sequences are based on the mathematical theories of finite projective planes, orthogonal Latin squares, and sawtooth sequences. The use of such theories in the constructions of channel hopping sequences appear to be new and better than other existing schemes in terms of minimizing the expected (respectively, maximum) time-to-rendezvous.
The Influence of Ethnic Community Knowledge on Indian Inventor Innovativeness
Authors: Almeida Paul , Phene Anupama , Li Sali
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates the knowledge influences of the ethnic community on the quality of innovations of Indian immigrant inventors in the U.S. semiconductor industry. Membership in the Indian ethnic community enables inventors to source knowledge from, and to collaborate with, others in the community. By analyzing patent data, we find that the utility of ethnic knowledge and collaborators depends on the level of inventor embeddedness in the community. Most inventors benefit by sourcing knowledge from, or collaborating with, other Indians and hence enhance innovation quality, but at a diminishing rate. For those who are very heavily embedded in the community, ethnic community knowledge decreases the quality of innovation. Our results provide some support for the idea that simultaneously sourcing ethnic knowledge and using ethnic collaborators also decreases innovativeness. Thus, for Indian inventors, the level of embeddedness in the community is a key factor in influencing the quality of innovation.
Quality Characteristics of Single Origin Bean-to-Bar Dark Chocolate Prepared with Sugar Alcohols
Authors: Kim So Young , Zu Genuine , Kim Byong Ki
Published: September 2014

Some sugar alcohol sweeteners such as maltitol, sorbitol, and xylitol were tested as a sucrose substitute in a low-calorie dark chocolate. The Arriba cacao bean, grown in Ecuador, was adapted to cope with a single origin bean-to-bar chocolate. The cocoa mass was prepared by roasting (160°C, 20 min), dehulling, and grinding of the bean. The chocolate paste containing all the ingredients was conched at 45°C for 36 h and was tempered at 27°C. The functional nutrients including total polyphenol (1,100 mg%), total flavonoid(17 mg%), and crude fiber (9.89%) were identified from the chocolates. The water activities of the chocolates ranged from 0.23 to 0.26. Xylitol and sorbitol raised the spreadability of the chocolate pastes along with a lowered consistency. The appearance of pisiform fat globules appeared on the surface of the chocolate and became less frequent with added maltitol. Particle size of the chocolate ranged from 7.86 μm (maltitol) to 12.89 μm (sorbitol), predicting smooth mouthfeel in the products. The melting points (about 30°C) and bloom resistance of the chocolates were less affected by the kind of sweeteners used. Demolding properties of the solid chocolate were improved by adding maltitol or sorbitol sweeteners. Sensorial acceptability of the chocolate sweetened with xylitol, which was comparable to that of sucrose, was the highest.
Physicochemical Properties of Extruded Chestnut Fruit at Various Conditions
Authors: An Sang-Hee , Lee Ju-Yeon , Kim Song-won , Ryu Gi-Hyung
Published: September 2014

The effects of extrusion conditions on the physicochemical properties of extruded chestnut fruit were determined by analyzing expansion index, specific length, bulk density, water solubility index (WSI), water absorption index (WAI), reducing sugar, DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical-scavenging activity, total phenolic compound, flavonoid content and tannin content. The extrusion conditions contained moisture contents of 22, 25 and 28%, screw speeds of 200 and 250 rpm, melt temperatures of 110, 120 and 130°C. The expansion index decreased as the moisture content increased from 22% to 25%. In contrast, the specific length and bulk density increased along with increasing moisture content. WSI and WAI were found to increase through the extrusion process. The reducing sugar, DPPH radical-scavenging activity, total phenolic compound and flavonoid content all decreased. The tannin content of the extruded chestnut fruit was 2.94 to 4.23 mg/g lower than the non-extruded chestnut. Based on these results, extrusion- cooking may be useful for tannin reduction and applied in value-added chestnut related products such as snacks, noodles and beverages etc.
Surgery, whistling and chekhov’s infidelity
Authors: Thomas Rhys
Published: September 2014

Anton Chekhov famously once wrote: ‘Medicine is my lawful wife, and literature is my mistress. When I get fed up with one, I spend the night with the other. Though it is irregular, it is less boring this way and, besides, neither of them loses anything through my infidelity.’
Der Treibhauseffekt im Spannungsverhältnis der Nord-Süd-Beziehungen
Authors: Bleischwitz Raimund , Etzbach Martina
Published: September 2014

Raimund Bleischwitz and Martina Etzbach respond to the question how the global warming foracested by climate research will change the relations between the North and the South. After a description of ecological and socio-economic implication of the potential catastrophy of a global climate change the authors discuss possible instrument of an international climate policy. The considerations focus on institutional problems, especially on possible actors and borlies responsible for a global environmental policy.
Von einer Neuen Weltwirtschaftsordnung zu einer neuen Weltfreihandelsordnung oder mehr Freihandel statt mehr Gerechtigkeit
Authors: Kessler Wolfgang
Published: September 2014

Wolfgang Kessler gives a report on the latest developments ofthe GATT negociations. The failure ofthe Uiruguay round in the autumn of 1990 and the irksome attempts at reanimation are depicted as a result of the strategy ofthe industrialized countries to bargain for their interests by demanding an extension oftheir free trade policy on additional parts of the world market. Kessler contrasts this strategy with a model of an ecologically and socially regulated world trade founded on world-wide agreed upon treaties that focus on a sustainable world economy.
Wie christlich wird Europa sein?
Authors: Rendtorff Trutz
Published: September 2014

The article discusses the topic- based upon the confessional situation of Common Europe- under which political conditions the historical stability ofthe profile of confessions in Europe is changing. Further on this topic is beeing discussed with regard to the cultural consequences of Christianity refering to economy, democracy and >>multiculturalism« and it is more concretely explained refering to the speciallegal order of churches. This deals with perspectives and limits of Europe in future.
Viele Kulturen – eine Gesellschaft Multikulturalität in europäischer Perspektive
Authors: Huber Wolfgang
Published: September 2014

The concept of »multiculturality« is based both on mutual recognition and realized identity. The former implies respect and tolerance for each other's different cultural patterns on the basis of an overlapping consensus of »core values« like human rights. The latter implies an affirmation and development of each particular culture. This runs counter to any cultural or religious relativism. The recognition ofthe alien is not only a basic concept in the experience of Israel but is also implied by the Pauline concept of justification by faith. On this basis the churches in Europe should neither advocate »Europrovincialism« nor »Eurointegralism« but »Eurofederalism«: a democratic process in which regions and nations grow together from the grassroots Ievel while respecting each other's cultural traditions. The international ecumenical community of the churches can become an example of such a process.
Auf dem Weg zu einer neuen europäischen Sozialordnung
Authors: Strohm Theodor
Published: September 2014

The author reflects upon the present debate about the future development of the social shape of Europe and discusses possibilities and perspectives for the realization of a solidary social order in the process of European unification. In these recollections the pluralism of the social security systems is considered. Against the background of protestant traditions the author pleads for a critical orientation at the priciple of subsidiaries. In the frame of this principle people in need of help are to be enabled to active self-help.
Wenn der Markt zum »Sündenbock« wird
Authors: Dahm Kari-Wilhelm
Published: September 2014

Karl-Wilhelm Dahm examines in his study a certain pattern of the theological criticism of marktet economy. In this pattern the market economy appears as in principal unethical. Dahm asks specifically about the theological arguments, which the criticism of market ecomomy underlie. The questions are put in a second part in an effort, to come to a constructive appreciation of the basic principles of »Soziale Marktwirtschaft«.
Rechtstheorie und christliche Rationalität
Authors: Wrege Wolf Reinhard
Published: September 2014

Modem theory of law in a certain extent needs theological foundation. The dialogue of both law and theology, however, requires specific presuppositions in theological understanding. Paul Tillich's Systematic Theology in its peculiar character of combining theological »paradoxon« and openess for cultural recognition meets these demands
Industrial Apocalyptic: Neoliberalism, Coal, and the Burlesque Frame
Authors: Peeples Jennifer , Bsumek Pete , Schwarze Steve , Schneider Jen
Published: September 2014

Rhetorical scholarship and cultural commentary have demonstrated that environmentalist voices are consistently associated with apocalyptic rhetoric. However, this association deflects attention from the apocalyptic rhetoric that comes from industry and countermovements to environmentalism. This essay seeks to remedy that oversight by proposing the concept of “industrial apocalyptic” as a significant rhetorical form in environmental controversy. Based on analysis of the rhetoric of the U.S. coal industry, we find that these industrial apocalyptic narratives rely on a burlesque frame to disrupt the categories of establishment and outsider and thus thwart environmental regulation. Ultimately, we argue that industrial apocalyptic co-opts environmentalist appeals for radical change in the service of blocking such change and naturalizes neoliberal ideology as the commonsense discourse of the center.
Analyse der Eingang-Zustand-Stabilität von Kleinwindanlagen mit LMI-Bedingungen
Authors: Schulte Horst , Gauterin Eckhard
Published: September 2014

Bei Kleinwindanlagen werden zur Leistungsbegrenzung Rotorblattverstellsysteme
eingesetzt. Dabei werden aus Kostengründen relativ einfache mechanische Regler
verwendet. Die Hauptschwierigkeit liegt in der Exemplarstreuung der mechanischen
Komponenten und der alterungsbedingten Änderung der dynamischen Eigenschaften.
In dieser Arbeit werden basierend auf der Beschreibung mechanischer
Rotorblattverstellsysteme mit Takagi-Sugeno Modellen LMI-Bedingungen und ein
Verfahren zum Nachweis der Eingang-Zustand-Stabilität unter Variation der
Federsteifigkeit und mechanischen Dämpfung vorgestellt.
Durkheim on Laws, Suicide Rates, and Symbols
Authors: Huang Chun Felix
Published: September 2014

This study explores Durkheim’s theory of the society and the symbol and its relation to structuralists such as Saussure and Levi-Strauss. Durkheim asserts that a society is a state of “solidarity”, which can only be grasped via symbolism. “Repressive laws”, such as criminal laws, symbolize the traditional society constituted by similarities among people; while “restitutory laws”, such as civil laws, symbolize the modern society constituted by differences. Durkheim traces the symbols back to religion, which divides the world into sacred and secular domains. Religion makes use of totems, as symbols, to exert force upon members of tribes. The dichotomies constructed by Saussure and Levi-Strauss respectively are influenced by Durkheim to a certain extent.
Towards a Theory of Evolution of Semiotic Systems
Authors: Kull Kalevi
Published: September 2014

In this paper I formulate briefly the main principles of evolution of semiotic systems. The neo-Darwinian theory of evolution does not take into account the semiosic nature of the systems under study, therefore its applicability to languages and cultures (and also to biological species as communicative semiosic systems) should be rigorously questioned. The semiotic theory of evolution should include the implications from the dynamic features of semiosis and sign systems. The two major tendencies in the evolution of semiosic systems are diversification - or introduction of new mutually incompatible systems and categories - and standardization - or development of mutual compatibility. The inclusion of agency as based on semiosis provides a non-Darwinian model, yet includes the Darwinian one as a restricted special case.
“Subject” and “Self” in Biosemiotics
Authors: Suryna Katsiaryna
Published: September 2014

This study explicates conditions of application of the terms ‘subject’ and ‘subjectivity’ in both contemporary biosemiotic discourse and the theory of umwelt by Uexkull. The article contrasts biosemiotics with the posthumanist attempt to bridge an ontological gap between human and animal by way of transforming the concept of subject. The limitations on the introduction of ‘subject’ and ‘subjectivity’ in biosemiotics are specified with reference to the biosemiotic project of Jesper Hoffmeyer. The imposition of metaphysical connotations of ‘subject’ are avoided here due to the self being regarded as a result of semiotic processes and the accent on the first-person perspective of experiential life in the notion of subjectivity. The theory of umwelt is examined in view of preconditions of a biosemiotic approach to self.
Nanodiagnostics: leaving the research lab to enter the clinics?
Authors: Baptista Pedro Viana
Published: September 2014

Nanotechnology has provided a plethora of valuable tools that can be applied for the detection of biomolecules and analytes relevant for diagnosis purposes – nanodiagnostics. This surging new field of molecular diagnostics has been revolutionizing laboratory procedures and providing new ways to assess disease biomarkers with increased sensitivity. While most of the reported nanodiagnostics systems are proof-of-concepts that demonstrate their efficacy in the lab, several nanodiagnostics platforms have already matured to a level that open the way for effective translation to the clinics. Nanodiagnostics platforms (e.g., gold nanoparticles containing systems) have been remarkably useful for the development of molecular diagnosis strategies for DNA/RNA detection and characterization, including systems suitable for point-of-care. How near are nanodiagnostics to go from the bench to the bedside?
Synthesis of pyrimido[4′,5′:2,3][1,4]thiazepino[7,6-b]quinolines, derivatives of a novel ring system
Authors: Karimian Azam , Eshghi Hossein , Bakavoli Mehdi , Shiri Ali
Published: September 2014

Several derivatives of the novel pyrimido[4′,5′:2,3][1,4]thiazepino[7,6-b]quinoline ring system have been synthesized through cyclocondensation of 5-amino-6-methylpyrimidine-4-thiols 5a,b and 2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehydes 6a–c in the presence of K2 CO3 in DMF.
Does Financial Liberalisation Improve Access to Investment Finance in Developing Countries?
Authors: O’Toole Conor M.
Published: September 2014

This paper considers the effect of financial liberalisation on access to investment finance using firm level data covering 48 developing and transition countries. An index is presented which measures financial market liberalisation along the following policy dimensions: directed lending, credit controls and reserve requirements, state control of banking, openness of international financial flows, banking market entry, prudential regulation and supervision and securities market development. Categorising firms as financially constrained across four measures, the results indicate that financial liberalisation is robustly associated with a reduction in the probability of being credit constrained, with the effect strongest for young, domestic private small and medium sized enterprises. For Sub-Saharan Africa, the results indicate that financial liberalisation actually increases financing constraints for firms. This may help explain the stylised fact that despite a commitment to financial reform, the predicted growth benefits have not been realised in this region.
Pituitary gland size is a useful marker in diagnosing isolated growth hormone deficiency in short children
Authors: Deeb Asma , Attia Salima , Elhag Ghada , El Fatih AbuBaker , Reddy Jaqan , Nagelkerke Nico
Published: September 2014

: Diagnosis of isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD) can be challenging. As short stature is common in children, confirmed diagnosis is necessary prior to commencing treatment. Pituitary hypoplasia can be seen in children with IGHD. However, confirmatory studies are lacking.

To test the application of pituitary size as a marker for IGHD in a population-matched control.

Subjects with IGHD were enrolled. Patients had brain magnetic resonance imaging, and the height and width of the pituitary were measured. Pituitary volume was calculated as (height×width)

Sixty patients and 130 controls were enrolled. The median and age range for the patients and controls were 11 and 3–16 years and 9 and 3–17 years, respectively. Cases had a significantly lower dimensions compared to controls (p<0.001).

Pituitary volume can be a useful marker to compliment the diagnosis of IGHD in selected patients when population-relevant normative control data are used.
Additions to the Paraguayan mammal fauna: the first records of two marsupials (Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) with comments on the alpha taxonomy of Cryptonanus and Philander
Authors: de la Sancha Noé U. , D’Elía Guillermo
Published: September 2014

Even though Paraguay has had a long history of Mammalogy, since 2007, several new rodent, bat, marsupial, and armadillo species have been added to the list of known species for the country. Herein, we add two new species of marsupials to the fauna of Paraguay,
Nano and microstructures of SEBS/PP/wax blend membranes: SAXS and WAXS analyses
Authors: Polat Kinyas , Orujalipoor Ilghar , İde Semra , Şen Murat
Published: September 2014

Elastomeric polymers are interesting materials for polymer chemists and other novel material designers in the field of industrial and technological science, because of their physical (mechanical, thermal and electrical) properties. In the context of this study, 35% and 68% styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene (SEBS) containing mixtures, namely SEBS35 and SEBS68, were focused on among of our novel synthesized SEBS blends which compose of microstructures. The structural changes, globular contents (globules) and uniformities of the samples at nanoscale and microscale were investigated by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and wide angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) methods. The obtained structural results were compared with a calculation of the scattering profiles using a convenient geometrical model defined by lamellar ordered and elliptical polydispersed cylindrical globules, which have approximately the same lengths in the range of 203.6–205.2 nm. Separation lengths and wide distributions of the cylindrical globules with elliptic cross sections and their lamellar stackings were also determined. At the end of the study, it was indicated that the microstructures of these newly designed polymers may be described by fractal structures composed of polydisperse elliptical cylinders.
Synthesis and initial biological evaluation of a novel Tc-99m radioligand as a potential agent for 5-HT1A receptor imaging
Authors: Abdelounis Najoua Mejri , Saied Nadia Malek , Essouissi Imen , Guizani Sihem , Saidi Mouldi
Published: September 2014

The synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of
N-Tolueneferrocenecarboxamide labeled with technetium-99m
(99mTc-TTCC) is reported. Biological studies in
Wistar rats showed the ability of 99mTc-TPCC to
cross the intact blood-brain barrier.
In vivo biodistribution
indicated that this complex had good brain uptake
(1.32% ID/g at 5 min and 0.64% ID/g
at 60 min) and good retention (about 50% of the
activity was retained in the brain at 60 min
post-injection). Regional brain distribution study showed that
hippocampus, where the 5-HT1A receptor density is high, had the
highest uptake (0.73% ID/g at 5 min p.i.) and
the cerebellum, where the 5-HT1A receptor density is low, had the
lowest uptake (0.12% ID/gID/g at 5 min
p.i.). After blocking with 8-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino) tetralin, the
uptake of hippocampus was decreased significantly from
0.73% ID/g to 0.20% ID/g at 5 min
p.i., while the cerebellum had no significant decrease. This result
indicates that 99mTc complex has specific binding to 5-HT1A receptor.
Retrieval and purification of an aged 231Pa source from its decay daughters
Authors: Wilson Richard E.
Published: September 2014

The retrieval and purification of a macroscopic aged sample of protactinium-231 is described. The 231Pa was separated from
its decay daughters using a precipitation based method. The method exploits the hydrolytic behavior and insolubility of protactinium
rather than attempting to avoid it by way of concentrated hydrofluoric and sulfuric acids, which have been shown to vitiate separations
using ion-exchange and solvent extraction based methods. Based on alpha spectrometry the source was previously separated in 1959–1960,
consistent with the Harwell Pa separations program. The method described here achieved 98% recovery of the 231Pa
with a final alpha-radiopurity of 93.75% in contrast to the 20.25% radiopurity of the starting material.
Microscopic Structure Analysis in Disordered Materials using Anomalous X-ray Scattering
Authors: Stellhorn Jens Rüdiger , Hosokawa Shinya , Pilgrim Wolf-Christian
Published: September 2014

Although X-ray diffraction is still mainly used to determine crystal
structures, the demand for an understanding of the atomic arrangement
in disordered matter has progressively become more important over the
past decades. However, apart from simple model systems, it is still
a challenging task to unravel the microscopic ordering of the atoms in
amorphous multi-component materials, although this knowledge becomes
increasingly important in modern materials science, in which the
physical properties are often related to the microscopic ordering of
the different chemical species of the substance. This article reports
about the combination of Anomalous X-ray Scattering (AXS) with Reverse
Monte Carlo Computer simulation (RMC) as a proper tool to precisely
determine the microscopic structural characteristics in such systems
with high reliability. The basic principles of the method will be
illustrated and some examples of modern materials will be given to
proof the applicability and the capability of this method.