bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levels of sparganum infections and phylogenetic analysis of the tapewormSpirometra erinaceieuropaeisparganum in wild frogs from Henan Province in central China
Authors: Wei T. , Zhang X. , Cui J. , Liu L.N. , Jiang P. , Wang Z.Q.
Published: May 2014

Sparganosis is a serious food-borne parasitic zoonosis caused by infection withSpirometraspargana. The prevalence of sparganum infection in wild frogs (Rana nigromaculata,R. limmochari,R. temporariaandBufo gargarizans) was investigated in Henan Province of central China during 2008–2012. Of 3482 caught wild frogs, 565 (16.23%) were found to be infected with plerocercoids (spargana) of the genusSpirometra. Spargana were found in 14.85% (320/2155) ofR. nigromaculata, 20.82% (233/1119) ofR. limmochariand 10.91% (12/110) ofR. temporariafrogs. However, no sparganum was found inB. gargarizans. To investigate the phylogenetic position of collected spargana, three mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) regions, namely cytochromecoxidase subunits 1 and 3 (cox1 andcox3), and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (nad4), were amplified, sequenced and analysed. Sequences ofcox1,cox3 and pnad4 were 417, 390 and 578 bp in length, respectively. The base composition ofcox1,cox3 and pnad4 were generally AT rich with a mean of 63.5%, 68.3% and 67% AT, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all the sparganum isolates in Henan Province representedSpirometra erinaceieuropaeiand were a well-supported clade. These findings demonstrated clearly the usefulness of the three mtDNA sequences for molecular identification and population genetics studies ofS. erinaceieuropaeispargana of human and animal health significance.
Life on deadwood: cut stumps as a model system for the succession and management of lichen diversity
Authors: BLASY Vérèna , ELLIS Christopher J.
Published: May 2014

Coarse deadwood provides an important habitat for a suite of niche-specialist lichens in old-growth forests, for example, snags (standing dead trees) and fallen logs. Conversely, the scarcity of deadwood in managed forests is a limiting factor to lichen diversity, though cut stumps may provide an alternative habitat for deadwood species. The surface of cut stumps is an ecologically useful study system, facilitating standardized sampling with which to determine the pattern and process of deadwood succession. This study examined vegetation patterns for the surface of cut stumps at Abernethy RSPB Reserve in northern Scotland. We demonstrate the interrelationship between key topographic, management and edaphic factors during a successional process of terrestrialization. Consequently, we recommend that deadwood diversity might be maximized by 1) creating managed plots with varying degrees of canopy openness for sites with different levels of topographic exposure, and 2) providing cut stumps at different heights within plots, to ensure that during a rotational period the process of terrestrialization operates at different speeds among individual microhabitats. The study examined successional processes on cut stumps using two recently accessible and powerful statistical methods: 1) nonparametric multiplicative regression (NPMR), and 2) multivariate regression trees (MRT). The principles on which these techniques are based are becoming the preferred statistical framework with which to provide robust interpretation of field-sampled data; they are unconstrained by prior assumptions as to the form of a species' niche response, and are data-led models evaluated based on cross-validated performance, thereby avoiding the complication of multiple hypothesis tests.
Unveiling a surprising diversity in the lichen genus Micarea (Pilocarpaceae) in Réunion (Mascarenes archipelago, Indian Ocean)
Authors: BRAND A. Maarten , VAN DEN BOOM Pieter P. G. , SÉRUSIAUX Emmanuël
Published: May 2014

Detailed anatomical and chemical studies conducted on recent collections made in almost all suitable habitats on Réunion, a small remote tropical island in the Indian Ocean, yielded a surprising diversity in the widespread lichen genus Micarea (Pilocarpaceae, Lecanorales). Twenty-one species are recognized, including 13 described here as new to science. They are: Micarea alectorialica, M. bebourensis, M. borbonica, M. boryana, M. cilaoensis, M. hyalinoxanthonica, M. isidiosa, M. melanoprasina, M. pseudocoppinsii, M. pseudolignaria, M. sublithinella, M. takamakae and M. tenuispora. Notes on local ecology and important biogeographical features are also given and a key to the species is provided. Isidiiform areolae are reported for the first time in the genus (M. isidiosa and M. tenuispora), as well as the production of protolichesterinic and confluentic acids (M. sublithinella and M. takamakae, respectively). Two groups within the genus are species-rich on the island: the M. peliocarpa group with possibly 5 species, including 3 new to science, and the M. prasina group with 4 species, including 2 new to science. Micarea levicula is reported here for the first time since its description, and the status of the material that can be referred to M. micrococca s. lat. needs further study.
Nutrition transition and food sustainability
Authors: Belahsen Rekia
Published: May 2014

The aim of the present paper is to review nutrition transition (NT) ongoing in low and middle income countries and the associated dietary changes. NT is accompanied by demographic and epidemiological transition associated with economic development and urbanisation. In these countries, while the problems of hunger and undernourishment persist, there is an escalation of diet-related non-communicable diseases; making them face both problems of malnutrition, under and overnutrition. Indeed, in addition to protein energy malnutrition underweight and micronutrient deficiencies affect a high proportion of children and women. Conversely, changes in dietary habits and physical activity patterns have led to emergence of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, hyperlipidaemia, CHD and cancer. One possible explanation of weight gain and its associated health consequences is the trend of the consumption of already prepared meals and the restaurants that are in continuous development leading to high consumption of foods rich in sugar and fat. The health problems associated with NT have not spared populations in the Mediterranean area where the type of diet is reported to be healthy and to protect against cardiovascular risks. This is seen in North Africa that belongs also to the Mediterranean basin, where the nutritional situation raises the problem of traditional foods sustainability. Accurate nutritional policy and education are needed to redress the effects of malnutrition related to NT on health.
Factors affecting the distribution and abundance of the Endangered volcano rabbit Romerolagus diazi on the Iztaccihuatl volcano, Mexico
Authors: Hunter Michael , Cresswell Will
Published: May 2014

The volcano rabbit Romerolagus diazi is an Endangered species endemic to Mexico, with a range of < 400 km2. We investigated threats from destruction, fragmentation and degradation of habitat, hunting, and cattle grazing intensity in relation to the distribution and abundance of the volcano rabbit on the Iztaccihuatl volcano. Faecal pellet counts were taken as a proxy for rabbit abundance in 1,718 random 0.2 m2 quadrats at 859 sampling points along 25 transects, covering an area of c. 100 km2 at altitudes of 3,400–4,000 m. Presence of the species was significantly associated with absence of closed forest, absence of long grass types (not bunchgrass), shallow inclines, absence of cattle grazing, lower altitude, low hunting pressure (measured by proximity to ranger station), absence of bare ground and, contrary to previous findings, increased frequency of fire. The species was significantly more abundant in habitats with a greater percentage cover of zacaton (bunchgrass) and short grass types. It was significantly less abundant in areas with more hunting (measured by proximity to ranger station) and cattle grazing. Key conservation priorities are therefore the protection of the subalpine zacaton bunchgrass-dominated habitat type, strict enforcement of hunting laws and the removal of livestock from relevant national park boundary areas. However, the results suggest that frequent fires have a significant positive effect on the occurrence of the volcano rabbit as a result of habitat improvement and this is often a consequence of anthropogenic management of land for cattle grazing.
Relationship between the abundance of the Endangered volcano rabbit Romerolagus diazi and vegetation structure in the Sierra Chichinautzin mountain range, Mexico
Authors: Rizo-Aguilar Areli , Guerrero José Antonio , Hidalgo-Mihart Mircea G. , González-Romero Alberto
Published: May 2014

The volcano rabbit Romerolagus diazi is endemic to the mountains of central Mexico, where its habitat has been gradually destroyed to make way for agriculture, ranching and logging, and by forest fires. The volcano rabbit is categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. We evaluated the relationship between the abundance of the volcano rabbit and vegetation structure at a small scale (0.25 ha). Using a general linear model we generated a set of 21 predictive models and proposed the best model as a habitat quality index. Our results suggest that greater height and cover of bunchgrasses and the presence of a shrub layer offer the volcano rabbit the best refuge from predators. The habitat quality index and the limited available habitat documented in our survey indicate that the populations of volcano rabbits in the study area are more threatened than previously thought. As R. diazi is a habitat specialist it does not have the option of moving to another habitat type.
Natural course of cannabis use disorders
Authors: Farmer R. F. , Kosty D. B. , Seeley J. R. , Duncan S. C. , Lynskey M. T. , Rohde P. , Klein D. N. , Lewinsohn P. M.
Published: May 2014

Background

Despite its importance as a public health concern, relatively little is known about the natural course of cannabis use disorders (CUDs). The primary objective of this research was to provide descriptive data on the onset, recovery and recurrence functions of CUDs during the high-risk periods of adolescence, emerging adulthood and young adulthood based on data from a large prospective community sample.

Method

Probands (n = 816) from the Oregon Adolescent Depression Project (OADP) participated in four diagnostic assessments (T1–T4) between the ages of 16 and 30 years, during which current and past CUDs were assessed.

Results

The weighted lifetime prevalence of CUDs was 19.1% with an average onset age of 18.6 years. Although gender was not significantly related to the age of initial CUD onset, men were more likely to be diagnosed with a lifetime CUD. Of those diagnosed with a CUD episode, 81.8% eventually achieved recovery during the study period. Women achieved recovery significantly more quickly than men. The recurrence rate (27.7%) was relatively modest, and most likely to occur within the first 36 months following the offset of the first CUD episode. CUD recurrence was uncommon after 72 months of remission and recovery.

Conclusions

CUDs are relatively common, affecting about one out of five persons in the OADP sample prior to the age of 30 years. Eventual recovery from index CUD episodes is the norm, although about 30% of those with a CUD exhibit a generally persistent pattern of problematic use extending 7 years or longer.
THE INTERPRETATION OF SPANISH SUBJUNCTIVE AND INDICATIVE FORMS IN ADVERBIAL CLAUSES
Authors: Kanwit Matthew , Geeslin Kimberly L.
Published: May 2014

The present study fills a need for investigations of learner and native speaker (NS) interpretation of the Spanish subjunctive in contexts that allow variation. The analysis compares responses by NSs and three levels of learners on a written interpretation task in which each item contained a temporal indicator (cuando“when”,después de que“after”, orhasta que“until”) and in which verbal mood, verbal morphological regularity, the order of clauses, and the temporal indicator were manipulated. Participants indicated their interpretation of each item by selecting that the event happened habitually or had not yet occurred, or that both were possible. Results show that NSs’ and highly advanced learners’ interpretations corresponded with verbal mood, whereas intermediate learners patterned separately. Using models generated with binomial regressions, the current study proposes stages of development for the interpretation of adverbial clauses that are essential for the growing number of theoretical approaches to language variation.
Triviality of the ℓ-class groups in -extensions of for split primes p ≡ 1 modulo 4
Authors: LAMPLUGH JACK
Published: May 2014

In this paper we study the class numbers in the finite layers of certain non-cyclotomic $\mathbb{Z}$p-extensions of the imaginary quadratic field $\mathbb{Q}(\sqrt{-1})$, for all primes p ≡ 1 modulo 4. By studying the Mahler measure of elliptic units, we are able to show that there are only finitely many primes ℓ congruent to a primitive root modulo p2 that divide any of the class numbers in the $\mathbb{Z}$p-extension.
Labour NGOs in China: A Real Force for Political Change?
Authors: Franceschini Ivan
Published: May 2014

The narrative about Chinese NGOs active in defending migrant workers' rights describes these organizations as increasingly powerful instruments through which Chinese people take part in public affairs, develop and articulate personal interests, and collectively form a more active and participatory citizenry. This article challenges not only the idea of labour NGOs as a progressive force for political change, but also the belief – widely shared among the international labour movement – that these organizations are sprouts of independent unionism in China. After a short overview of the historical process which led to the birth of labour NGOs in China, this article analyses the relations between these NGOs and four fundamental actors – the state, the workers, international donors and other NGOs – and argues that many of these organizations are struggling as a consequence of a substantial lack of “social capital.”
On Method: An Apologia and A Plea
Authors: Henige David
Published: May 2014

Why yet another Africanist journal? the reader may ask. And, given the astonishin, increase in the number (now over 200) of journals devoted to Africa, the question is a fair one. Every new journal should seek to justify itself to the audience it addresses.

Despite the large number of African journals now available, not all aspects of the study of the African past are covered adequately. Because this study is so recent the emphasis, both in research itself and in the format of the journals, has been on the collection, use, and presentation of data. It cannot be denied that these procedures have been and will remain the chief concerns of historical enquiry, but they are not the only ones. The value of data obviously depends, first, on its validity, and, second, on its use. The assessment of these aspects in turn depends on the close and continued scrutiny of sources as well as on the quality of historical thought. We cannot agree with Livy, who wrote of his sources for early Roman history that “it is not worth the trouble either to affirm or to dispose of these matters [improbabilities] … we must abide by the tradition.”
Research Projects and Conferences
Authors: Hair P.E.H.
Published: May 2014

Scholars working on the pre-1700 history of the Guinea coast find invaluable the series of bilingual editions of early Portuguese texts (Gomes, Pacheeo Pereira, Fernandes) issued at Dakar and Bissau in the 1950s by a group of French and Portuguese scholars. A fourth early text, that of Zurara, was very competently edited in French by L. Bourdon and published in Dakar in 1960. These texts can be reinforced and supplemented by the collection of documents published in many volumes by Fr. António Brásio since 1952. Earlier editions of Guinea texts of this vintage were much less satisfactory, largely because the editors lacked knowledge of the African background. This criticism applied to texts presented in Portuguese (Cadamosto, Almada, Lemos Coelho), in Dutch (De Marees and Ruiters), and in English (Cadamosto and Pacheeo Pereira). In more recent years, while there has been a flood of reprints, mostly unedited, there has been a lull in the publication of volumes of edited texts. However, shorter texts have recently been examined–in Thilmans' 1971 analysis of a section of Dapper's work, and in a number of papers by Avelino Teixeira da Mota, which have included materials from the project about to be described.
Recently Published Articles: A Historical Bibliography of Interest to Africanists
Authors: Gardinier David
Published: May 2014

In February of 1976 the American Historical Association published the first issue of Recently Published Articles. RPA is a current, comprehensive bibliography of scholarly historical articles in all fields, and replaces the bibliographical sections previously published in the American Historical Review under the same title. RPA is issued three times a year and, at present, lists nearly 15,000 citations annually, of which about one-eighth relate to Africa -- a number second only to that for the United States.

The creation of RPA resulted from the re-organization of the American Historical Association and its various services. A survey of American Historical Review subscribers revealed a desire by the majority for a more extensive and balanced book review section and most of the space left in the Review by the departure of the bibliography has in fact been filled by additional book reviews, including more in African history. Surprisingly -- and perhaps distressingly -- only a minority of those surveyed indicated that they consulted the bibliographical sections with any regularity. Because of this, and because the growth of the bibliographies during the 1970s (reflecting both increased output and better coverage) was adding steadily to the cost of producing the Review, it was decided to transfer these costs directly to the users -- a practice the reader will recognize as becoming more common. At the same time it was decided to intensify efforts at better and more extensive coverage, in particular to include more articles outside history proper which nevertheless have interest to historians.
Using Microsimulation to Reassess Aging Trends in Canada
Authors: Légaré Jacques , Décarie Yann , Bélanger Alain
Published: May 2014

Le vieillissement de la population est l’enjeux démographique du XXI ième siècle et plusieurs indicateurs sont utilisés pour en mesurer le niveau et les tendances. DansScience(2010), Sanderson et Scherbov ont suggéré des améliorations à la mesure du rapport de dépendance des personnes âgées. Ils ont identifié plusieurs limites à l’utilisation de l’âge chronologique comme la principale variable et ont proposé un nouvel indice, le rapport de dépendance des adultes avec incapacités, défini comme le nombre d’adultes ayant une incapacité qui ont au moins 20 ans, divisé par le nombre d’adultes du même âge sans incapacité. Ils ont utilisé la méthode de Sullivan, basée sur la prévalence, en multipliant des taux d’incapacité dérivés à des projections démographiques de niveau macro. Ils ont montré leurs résultats pour plusieurs pays de la CEE et de l’OCDE. Les résultats pour le Canada (voir l’annexe en ligne) ont été calculés en utilisant les coefficients de l’Italie. Cependant, l’incapacité est un processus complexe et multidimensionnel (voir Carrière et al, 2007; Légaré et Décarie, 2011), et la microsimulation peut tenir compte de cette complexité implicite. Nos résultats pour le Canada, présentés ici, sont supérieurs à ceux deScience, et indique comment des projections plus élaborées des personnes âgées avec incapacités peuvent améliorer l’analyse. Nous avons utilisé LifePaths, un modèle de microsimulation de Statistique Canada, pour fournir une perspective du phénomène du vieillissement impossible à obtenir en utilisant des méthodes basées sur la prévalence.
Heterogeneity in hotspots: spatio-temporal patterns in neglected parasitic diseases
Authors: LAL A. , HALES S.
Published: May 2014

Cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis have been recognized by the WHO as ‘Neglected Diseases’. Minimal attention has been paid to the spatial and temporal distribution of disease incidence patterns. Using disease notification data, we detected spatio-temporal clusters of cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis across three time periods: (i) 1997–2000, (ii) 2001–2004, (iii) 2005–2008. There was substantial variation in the geographical location and timing of recurrent cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis clusters. Statistically significant (P < 0·05) giardiasis clusters tended to occur in predominantly urban areas with little apparent seasonal influence, while statistically significant cryptosporidiosis clusters were detected in spring, in areas with high livestock land use. The location and timing of cryptosporidiosis clusters suggest an influence of livestock production practices, while urban exposures and host behaviour are likely to influence giardiasis clusters. This approach provides a resource-efficient method for public health authorities to prioritize future research needs and areas for intervention.
Saffron and retina: Neuroprotection and pharmacokinetics
Authors: BISTI SILVIA , MACCARONE RITA , FALSINI BENEDETTO
Published: May 2014

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a retinal neurodegenerative disease whose development and progression are the results of a complex interaction between genetic and environmental risk factors. Both oxidative stress and chronic inflammation play a significant role in the pathogenesis of AMD. Experimental studies in rats with light-induced photoreceptors degeneration demonstrated that saffron may protect photoreceptor from retinal stress, preserving both morphology and function and probably acting as a regulator of programmed cell death, in addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, a randomized clinical trial showed that in patients with early AMD, dietary supplementation with saffron was able to improve significantly the retinal flicker sensitivity suggesting neuroprotective effect of the compound. Here, we examine the progress of saffron dietary supplementation both in animal model and AMD patients, and discuss the potential and safety for using dietary saffron to treat retinal degeneration.
Molecular analyses of gut contents: elucidating the feeding of co-occurring salps in the Lazarev Sea from a different perspective
Authors: Metfies Katja , Nicolaus Anja , Von Harbou Lena , Bathmann Ulrich , Peeken Ilka
Published: May 2014

The diet of Antarctic salps was elucidated by investigating their gut content using automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) and 454-pyrosequencing. Salp samples were collected during the Lazarev Sea Krill Study in the western Weddell Sea (summer 2005–06 and 2007–08, autumn 2004 and winter 2006). Two salp species,Salpa thompsoniandIhlea racovitzai, both occur in the Southern Ocean and can overlap geographically and seasonally. We provide evidence that, despite the non-selective feeding mechanism, the two co-occurring salp species might have different niches within a habitat. ARISA-patterns of 93 gut content samples revealed strong differences between the two salp species, even at the same sampling site. These differences were confirmed by 454-pyrosequencing of the V4-18S rDNA of ten salps. The pyrosequencing data indicate that flagellates, in particular dinophyceae, constitute a high proportion of the sequence reads identified in the gut content of both salp species. However, within the dinophyceae, differences in the read composition were detected between the two salp species. This supports the findings of a previous study where fatty acid signatures indicate a flagellate-based diet, even though microscopic analyses identified diatoms as the dominant component of salp gut contents.
Topological pattern recognition for point cloud data
Authors: Carlsson Gunnar
Published: May 2014

In this paper we discuss the adaptation of the methods of homology from algebraic topology to the problem of pattern recognition in point cloud data sets. The method is referred to aspersistent homology, and has numerous applications to scientific problems. We discuss the definition and computation of homology in the standard setting of simplicial complexes and topological spaces, then show how one can obtain useful signatures, called barcodes, from finite metric spaces, thought of as sampled from a continuous object. We present several different cases where persistent homology is used, to illustrate the different ways in which the method can be applied.
Numerical methods for kinetic equations
Authors: Dimarco G. , Pareschi L.
Published: May 2014

In this survey we consider the development and mathematical analysis of numerical methods for kinetic partial differential equations. Kinetic equations represent a way of describing the time evolution of a system consisting of a large number of particles. Due to the high number of dimensions and their intrinsic physical properties, the construction of numerical methods represents a challenge and requires a careful balance between accuracy and computational complexity. Here we review the basic numerical techniques for dealing with such equations, including the case of semi-Lagrangian methods, discrete-velocity models and spectral methods. In addition we give an overview of the current state of the art of numerical methods for kinetic equations. This covers the derivation of fast algorithms, the notion of asymptotic-preserving methods and the construction of hybrid schemes.
Stochastic finite element methods for partial differential equations with random input data
Authors: Gunzburger Max D. , Webster Clayton G. , Zhang Guannan
Published: May 2014

The quantification of probabilistic uncertainties in the outputs of physical, biological, and social systems governed by partial differential equations with random inputs require, in practice, the discretization of those equations. Stochastic finite element methods refer to an extensive class of algorithms for the approximate solution of partial differential equations having random input data, for which spatial discretization is effected by a finite element method. Fully discrete approximations require further discretization with respect to solution dependences on the random variables. For this purpose several approaches have been developed, including intrusive approaches such as stochastic Galerkin methods, for which the physical and probabilistic degrees of freedom are coupled, and non-intrusive approaches such as stochastic sampling and interpolatory-type stochastic collocation methods, for which the physical and probabilistic degrees of freedom are uncoupled. All these method classes are surveyed in this article, including some novel recent developments. Details about the construction of the various algorithms and about theoretical error estimates and complexity analyses of the algorithms are provided. Throughout, numerical examples are used to illustrate the theoretical results and to provide further insights into the methodologies.
Acute Incident Rapid Response at a Mass-Gathering Event Through Comprehensive Planning Systems: A Case Report from the 2013 Shamrock Shuffle
Authors: Başdere Mehmet , Ross Colleen , Chan Jennifer L. , Mehrotra Sanjay , Smilowitz Karen , Chiampas George
Published: May 2014

Planning and execution of mass-gathering events involves various challenges. In this case report, the Chicago Model (CM), which was designed to organize and operate such events and to maintain the health and wellbeing of both runners and the public in a more effective way, is described. The Chicago Model also was designed to prepare for unexpected incidents, including disasters, during the marathon event. The model has been used successfully in the planning and execution stages of the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon since 2008. The key components of the CM are organizational structure, information systems, and communication. This case report describes how the organizers at the 2013 Shamrock Shuffle used the key components of the CM approach in order to respond to an acute incident caused by a man who was threatening to jump off the State Street Bridge. The course route was changed to accommodate this unexpected event, while maintaining access to key health care facilities. The lessons learned from the incident are presented and further improvements to the existing model are proposed.

BaşdereM,RossC,ChanJL,MehrotraS,SmilowitzK,ChiampasG.Acute incident rapid response at a mass-gathering event through comprehensive planning systems: a case report from the 2013 Shamrock Shuffle.Prehosp Disaster Med.2014;29(3):1-6.
The Idea of Economic Laws. Some Considerations on Rationality, Historicity, and Objectivity in Economics
Authors: Horvath Michael , von Weizsäcker Robert K.
Published: May 2014

The debate on the existence of laws in individual and social behaviour dates back to the very beginnings of economics as a modern science. In adopting the concept of natural laws from classical mechanics, economics originally evolved as ‘social physics.’ But is it really appropriate to transfer the idea of precise and accurate laws to social life and social science? We attempt to answer this question by scrutinizing the methodological foundations of the discipline. In particular, this paper addresses the concepts of rationality, historicity, and objectivity – all located at the very heart of economics and all essential in developing a viable, empirically corroborated theory to face and embrace economic complexity.
The Concept of Law from a Legal Point of View
Authors: Starck Christian
Published: May 2014

Beginning with a quotation of Karl Popper about the difference between natural (physical) and normative law, the normative notion of law is explained as a product of cultural development. In the field of normative law there exists a distinction between laws made by human authorities in a formal procedure and natural law perceived by human reason, often entering into common law and statutory law (e.g. human rights). Law corresponds with reality in the sense that relevant aspects of reality are transcribed by abstract notions and combined with legal consequences. There exists a hierarchy of laws, a pre-eminent position of the legislative over other state functions and the supremacy of the constitution
THE PRICE PUZZLE AND VAR IDENTIFICATION
Authors: Estrella Arturo
Published: May 2014

In structural VARs, unexpected monetary tightening often leads to the price puzzle, a counterintuitive increase in inflation in the impulse response function. The identification of impulse responses requires at least a minimal set of structural assumptions, and models exhibiting the price puzzle typically use standard assumptions focusing mainly on relationships among contemporaneous disturbances. This note uses a well-established stylized fact, the long lags of monetary policy, to motivate a simple additional identifying assumption. The assumption eliminates a single term in one equation of the reduced form, and with it the price puzzle.
Analysis of Catalytic Gas Products Using Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy and Residual Gas Analysis for Operando Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Miller Benjamin K. , Crozier Peter A.
Published: May 2014

Operando transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of catalytic reactions requires that the gas composition inside the TEM be known during the in situ reaction. Two techniques for measuring gas composition inside the environmental TEM are described and compared here. First, electron energy-loss spectroscopy, both in the low-loss and core-loss regions of the spectrum was utilized. The data were quantified using a linear combination of reference spectra from individual gasses to fit a mixture spectrum. Mass spectrometry using a residual gas analyzer was also used to quantify the gas inside the environmental cell. Both electron energy-loss spectroscopy and residual gas analysis were applied simultaneously to a known 50/50 mixture of CO and CO2, so the results from the two techniques could be compared and evaluated. An operando TEM experiment was performed using a Ru catalyst supported on silica spheres and loaded into the TEM on a specially developed porous pellet TEM sample. Both techniques were used to monitor the conversion of CO to CO2 over the catalyst, while simultaneous atomic resolution imaging of the catalyst was performed.
Electron Holographic Visualization of Collective Motion of Electrons Through Electric Field Variation
Authors: Shindo Daisuke , Aizawa Shinji , Akase Zentaro , Tanigaki Toshiaki , Murakami Yasukazu , Park Hyun Soon
Published: May 2014

This study demonstrates the accumulation of electron-induced secondary electrons by utilizing a simple geometrical configuration of two branches of a charged insulating biomaterial. The collective motion of these secondary electrons between the branches has been visualized by analyzing the reconstructed amplitude images obtained using in situ electron holography. In order to understand the collective motion of secondary electrons, the trajectories of these electrons around the branches have also been simulated by taking into account the electric field around the charged branches on the basis of Maxwell’s equations.
Quantitative Position-AveragedK-,L-, andM-Shell Core-Loss Scattering in STEM
Authors: Zhu Ye , Dwyer Christian
Published: May 2014

We present a quantitative comparison between experimental position-averaged core-loss scattering fromK-,L-, andM-shells of various elements and simulations based on a single-particle description of the core-loss process. To facilitate a direct comparison free of adjustable or compensating parameters, we compare absolute scattering cross-sections for zone-axis-aligned crystals whose thicknesses have been measured independently. The results show that the single-particle model accurately predicts the absolute scattering intensity fromK-shells, andL-shells in some cases, but achieves only semi-quantitative agreement forM-shells.
IMRT with concomitant boost versus conventional radiation in the setting of sequential chemoradiotherapy for oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Franchin Giovanni , Furlan Carlo , Vaccher Emanuela , Talamini Renato , Gobitti Carlo , Grando Giuseppe , Minatel Emilio , Dassie Andrea , Trovò Mauro Gaetano , Barzan Luigi
Published: May 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of IMRT with concomitant boost simultaneous integrated boost-intensity modulated radiotherapy (SIB-IMRT) compared with conventional radiation in the setting of sequential chemoradiotherapy (induction chemoradiotherapy(ICRT)) for patients with advanced oropharynx cancer (OPC).

Materials and methods

A single-institutional retrospective review was conducted on 84 patients (conventional radiation,n= 36; SIB-IMRT,n= 48) with stage III and IV OPC, who underwent definitive ICRT from 2002 to 2012. The study endpoints included overall survival (OS) and locoregional control (LRC).

Results

The median follow-up of the matched cohorts resulted similar (30 months for 3D-radiation technique versus 37 months for IMRT), and baseline characteristics were generally balanced between the two groups. However, patients managed with conventional radiation were less likely to have positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) for staging and to receive induction chemotherapy with TPF. A multivariate Cox proportional hazard model showed that OS and LRC were associated with several known prognostic factors, along with radiation modality (SIB-IMRT versus conventional radiation, hazard ratio 0·27,p= 0·004; hazard ratio 0·31,p= 0·006; for OS and LRC, respectively).

Conclusions

The adoption of SIB-IMRTversusconventional radiation may produce a clinical benefit in OS and LRC among patients receiving ICRT for advanced OPC.
Tertiary bark lice (Insecta: Psocodea) from the Insect Limestone (Bembridge Marls, Late Eocene) of the Isle of Wight, UK
Authors: Azar Dany
Published: May 2014

Late Eocene fossil Psocodea from the Isle of Wight are studied and classified within three new genera and seven species (Wightipsocus acourti (Cockerell 1921) gen. nov. et n. comb., Wightipsocus intasi gen. et sp. nov., Wightipsocus rossi gen et sp. nov., Awightipsocus jarzembowskii gen. et sp. nov., Awightipsocus megaloi gen. et sp. nov. Awightipsocus minimus gen. et sp. nov. and Wightimicropsocus inexpectatus gen. et sp. nov.) without however attributing them to any family. A key for fossil Psocodea from the Isle of Wight is given.
SU8 ridge-gap waveguide resonator
Authors: Rahiminejad Sofia , Pucci Elena , Haasl Sjoerd , Enoksson Peter
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we present the first ridge-gap waveguide resonator made with a polymer base. It is designed for the frequency range 220–325 GHz, and is fabricated solely using a Au coated two-layer SU8-based process. The design is based on previous work done with Si. The new process has advantages such as fewer and cheaper process steps. The SU8 ridge-gap waveguide resonator is made in order to obtain attenuation characteristics via the measured Q-factor of the resonator. The ridge-gap waveguide resonator has the same dimensions as the previous one fabricated in Si, and the same thickness of the Au coating. The SU8-based resonator shows an attenuation loss of 0.41 dB/mm at 282.2 GHz compared to the Si-based resonator with an attenuation loss of 0.043 dB/mm at 283.5 GHz. This makes the SU8 process a more cost-effective alternative to the Si process
VariableZ0antenna technology: a new approach for IoT wireless
Authors: Formato Richard A.
Published: May 2014

Variable Z0(VZ0) antenna technology is a new design or optimization methodology applicable to any antenna on any platform designed or optimized with any procedure. It should be particularly useful for wireless devices populating the Internet of Things. VZ0expands the design or decision space by adding another degree of freedom invariably leading to better antennas. A simple design example illustrates its effectiveness.
Growth restriction in the rat alters expression of cardiac JAK/STAT genes in a sex-specific manner
Authors: van der Linde S. , Romano T. , Wadley G. , Jeffries A. J. , Wlodek M. E. , Hryciw D. H.
Published: May 2014

Uteroplacental insufficiency resulting in intrauterine growth restriction has been associated with the development of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease and increased blood pressure, particularly in males. The molecular mechanisms that result in the programming of these phenotypes are not clear. This study investigated the expression of cardiac JAK/STAT signalling genes in growth restricted offspring born small due to uteroplacental insufficiency. Bilateral uterine vessel ligation was performed on day 18 of pregnancy to induce growth restriction (Restricted) or sham surgery (Control). Cardiac tissue at embryonic day (E) 20, postnatal day (PN) 1, PN7 and PN35 in male and female Wistar (WKY) rats (n=7–10 per group per age) was isolated and mRNA extracted. In the heart, there was an effect of age for males for all genes examined there was a decrease in expression after PN1. With females, JAK2 expression was significantly reduced after E20, while PI3K in females was increased at E30 and PN35. Further, mRNA expression was significantly altered in JAK/STAT signalling targets in Restricteds in a sex-specific manner. Compared with Controls, in males, JAK2 and STAT3 were significantly reduced in the Restricted, while in females SOCS3 was significantly increased and PI3K significantly decreased in the Restricted offspring. Finally, there were specific differences in the levels of gene expression within the JAK/STAT pathway when comparing males to females. Thus, growth restriction alters specific targets in the JAK/STAT signalling pathway, with altered JAK2 and STAT3 potentially contributing to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in the growth restricted males.
High-throughput profiling of influenza A virus hemagglutinin gene at single-nucleotide resolution
Authors: Wu Nicholas C. , Young Arthur P. , Al-Mawsawi Laith Q. , Olson C. Anders , Feng Jun , Qi Hangfei , Chen Shu-Hwa , Lu I.-Hsuan , Lin Chung-Yen , Chin Robert G. , Luan Harding H. , Nguyen Nguyen , Nelson Stanley F. , Li Xinmin , Wu Ting-Ting , Sun Ren
Published: May 2014

Genetic research on influenza virus biology has been informed in large part by nucleotide variants present in seasonal or pandemic samples, or individual mutants generated in the laboratory, leaving a substantial part of the genome uncharacterized. Here, we have developed a single-nucleotide resolution genetic approach to interrogate the fitness effect of point mutations in 98% of the amino acid positions in the influenza A virus hemagglutinin (HA) gene. Our HA fitness map provides a reference to identify indispensable regions to aid in drug and vaccine design as targeting these regions will increase the genetic barrier for the emergence of escape mutations. This study offers a new platform for studying genome dynamics, structure-function relationships, virus-host interactions and can further rational drug and vaccine design. Our approach can also be applied to any virus that can be genetically manipulated.
Backbone-modified amphiphilic cyclic di- and tetrasaccharides
Authors: Daskhan Gour Chand , Jayaraman Narayanaswamy
Published: May 2014

Synthesis of backbone-modified cyclic di- and tetrasaccharides, their guest solubilizations in aqueous and organic solutions, and glycosidic bond stabilities are reported.
A single chain magnet involving hexacyanoosmate
Authors: Peresypkina Eugenia V. , Majcher Anna M. , Rams Michał , Vostrikova Kira E.
Published: May 2014

The first single chain magnet (SCM) based on the orbitally degenerate [Os(CN)6]3− anion was prepared. The high energy barriers are a result of interplay of Mn3+ single-ion magnetic anisotropy and highly anisotropic three axes exchange interactions between the paramagnetic centres.
Adherent state apoptosis assay (ASA): a fast and reliable method to detect apoptosis in adherent cells
Authors: Emamzadeh Rahman , Nazari Mahboobeh , Najafzadeh Somayeh
Published: May 2014

The luminometric assay based on RLuc/Annexin V, which is called “adherent state apoptosis assay (ASA)”, is a new, rapid and reliable method for the functional assay of apoptosis in adherent cells.
Design of a highly sensitive fluorescent sensor and its application based on inhibiting NaIO4 oxidizing rhodamine 6G
Authors: Liu Jia-Ming , Huang Qitong , Cai Pei-Yuan , Lin Chang-Qing , Zhang Li-Hong , Zheng Zhi-Yong
Published: May 2014

A novel fluorescent sensor has been designed for the determination of terbutaline sulfate (TBS).
Biocompatible, chimeric peptide-condensed supramolecular nanoparticles for tumor cell-specific siRNA delivery and gene silencing
Authors: Wang Hangxiang , Chen Wei , Xie Haiyang , Wei Xuyong , Yin Shengyong , Zhou Lin , Xu Xiao , Zheng Shusen
Published: May 2014

A practical and tumor cell-specific siRNA delivery system was developedviasingle-step self-assembly of an arginine-rich chimeric peptide with siRNA.
MCF-supported boronic acids as efficient catalysts for direct amide condensation of carboxylic acids and amines
Authors: Gu Liuqun , Lim Jaehong , Cheong Jian Liang , Lee Su Seong
Published: May 2014

Optimizing the microenvironments can significantly enhance the catalytic activity.
B(C6F5)3 promoted cyclisation of internal propargyl esters: structural characterisation of 1,3-dioxolium compounds
Authors: Hansmann Max M. , Melen Rebecca L. , Rominger Frank , Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: May 2014

Internal propargyl esters react with B(C6F5)3 to give zwitterionic dioxolium heterocycles; the structures and mechanism of formation are considered in the light of DFT calculations.
Connection of zinc paddle-wheels in a pto-type metal–organic framework with 2-methylimidazolate and subsequent incorporation of charged organic guests
Authors: Ko Nakeun , Noh Kyungkyou , Sung Siyoung , Park Hye Jeong , Park Sang Youn , Kim Jaheon
Published: May 2014

2-Methylimidazolate (mIm) connects the Zn2 paddle-wheels in a pto type framework, leading to an anionic metal–organic framework.
Direct arylation of pyridines without the use of a transition metal catalyst
Authors: Li Yahui , Liu Wei , Kuang Chunxiang
Published: May 2014

This new reaction proceeds readily at room temperature without the use of any transition metal catalyst.
Guest induced head-to-tail columnar assembly of 5,17-difunctionalized calix[4]arene
Authors: Sekiya Ryo , Yamasaki Yutaro , Tada Wataru , Shio Hidemi , Haino Takeharu
Published: May 2014

Calix[4]arenes often form dimeric capsules or up-down bilayer arrangements in the solid state. The head-to-tail polymeric columnar structure found in the cocrystals composed of 5,17-difunctionalized calix[4]arene 1 and organic guests represents another structural motif for calix[4]arenes.
P-type Cu7Te5 single-crystalline nanocuboids: size-controlled synthesis and large-scale self-assembly
Authors: Dai Baosong , Zhao Qian , Gui Jing , Zhang Jiatao , Zhu Hesun
Published: May 2014

The synthesis, shape evolution and large-scale self-assembly of p-type Cu7Te5 single-crystalline nanocuboids have been studied in this communication.
A DFT study of the structures, stabilities and redox behaviour of the major surfaces of magnetite Fe3O4
Authors: Santos-Carballal David , Roldan Alberto , Grau-Crespo Ricardo , de Leeuw Nora H.
Published: May 2014

Redox behaviour of magnetite Fe3O4nanoparticles in thermodynamic equilibrium conditions enclosed by non-dipolar reconstructed surfaces.
Halogen bonding of electrophilic bromocarbons with pseudohalide anions
Authors: Rosokha Sergiy V. , Stern Charlotte L. , Swartz Alan , Stewart Rory
Published: May 2014

Spectral, thermodynamic and structural features of the complexes of bromocarbons with polydentate azide, cyanate or thiocyanate anions are presented. They suggest a significant role of the molecular-orbital interactions in formation of these halogen-bonded associates.
Recombination kinetics in a silicon solar cell at low concentration: electro-analytical characterization of space-charge and quasi-neutral regions
Authors: Yadav Pankaj , Tripathi Brijesh , Pandey Kavita , Kumar Manoj
Published: May 2014

We carried out electro-analytical measurements to demonstrate the characteristic features of charge recombination in the space-charge region and the quasi-neutral region.
Complexes formed between DNA and poly(amido amine) dendrimers of different generations – modelling DNA wrapping and penetration
Authors: Qamhieh Khawla , Nylander Tommy , Black Camilla F. , Attard George S. , Dias Rita S. , Ainalem Marie-Louise
Published: May 2014

A schematic figure that depicts the relationship between the wrapping of the DNA around cationic dendrimers and morphology of the complexes formed.
The specificity of interaction of Zn2+, Ni2+ and Cu2+ ions with the histidine-rich domain of the TjZNT1 ZIP family transporter
Authors: Potocki Slawomir , Valensin Daniela , Kozlowski Henryk
Published: May 2014

The histidine-rich sequence from the loop between tansmembrane domains (TMDs) III and IV of ZIP transporters binds all studied metal ions with different geometries and with stability increasing in the series Ni2+ < Zn2+ ≪ Cu2+; a high specificity for Zn2+ is observed.
Electrodeposited CZTS solar cells from Reline electrolyte
Authors: Chen Hao , Ye Qinyan , He Xulin , Ding Jingjing , Zhang Yongzheng , Han Junfeng , Liu Jiang , Liao Cheng , Mei Jun , Lau Woonming
Published: May 2014

A conversion efficiency of 3.87% was achieved by using Reline as an electrolyte to co-electroplate Cu–Zn–Sn precursor thin films.
Engineering interconnected 3D vascular networks in hydrogels using molded sodium alginate lattice as the sacrificial template
Authors: Wang Xue-Ying , Jin Zi-He , Gan Bo-Wen , Lv Song-Wei , Xie Min , Huang Wei-Hua
Published: May 2014

We engineer interconnected 3D vascular networks in hydrogels using molded sodium alginate lattice as sacrificial templates. The size and morphology of simulated vascular networks were well controlled and a fully-developed endothelial layer was formed.