bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Definition and documentation of traditional foods of the Black Sea Area Countries: potential nutrition claims
Authors: Dilis Vardis , Vasilopoulou Effie , Alexieva Iordanka , Boyko Nadiya , Bondrea Aurelian , Fedosov Sergey , Hayran Osman , Jorjadze Mariam , Karpenko Dmitry , Costa Helena S , Finglas Paul , Trichopoulou Antonia
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Nutrition and health claims are permitted in foods marketed in the European Union under Regulation 1924/2006. Quality products such as traditional foods might benefit from this act, as it can highlight their nutritional richness. In this study the nutritional content of 33 traditional foods from the Black Sea Area Countries was evaluated against the thresholds of the Regulation for nutrition claims.

RESULTS

Most of the foods were eligible to bear several nutrition claims, mostly related to their fat, sugar, fiber and sodium content. The average number of claims per traditional food was two, with a range between zero and nine. Overall, about 72 nutrition claims were potentially relevant for the 33 traditional foods studied. Foods linked with the most claims were nuts and seeds.

CONCLUSION

The inclusion of traditional foods under this standardized European scheme could be an efficient way to highlight their possible beneficial nutritional properties. The production and marketing of traditional foods could be of benefit to both the health of consumers and the economic viability of producers, especially small‐ and medium‐size enterprises. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Short‐term and long‐term effects of excessive consumption of saturated fats and/or sucrose on metabolic variables in Sprague Dawley rats: a pilot study
Authors: Pranprawit Araya , Wolber Frances M , Heyes Julian A , Molan Abdul L , Kruger Marlena C
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Feeding high‐fat and/or high‐sugar diets to rats leads to a change in markers of metabolic syndrome. However, types and amounts of fat and sugar as well as the length of the experiment for establishing diet‐induced metabolic syndrome in the Sprague Dawley (SD) rat model remain uncertain. This study was designed to investigate the effects in SD rats of consuming excess lard, sucrose or a combination of lard and sucrose for a short (4 week) or long (8 week) period of time.

RESULTS

Consumption of the high‐fat high‐sugar (HFHS) diet significantly increased weight gain and abdominal fat weights (P < 0.05), and the rats also began to develop signs of impaired glucose tolerance and had increased fasting blood lipids glucose and insulin concentrations. The high‐fat (HF) diet mainly affected weight gain and fat deposition, whereas the high‐sugar (HS) diet induced glucose intolerance but not the obesity‐related parameters. Control rats showed a tendency towards insulin resistance and glucose intolerance when fed for a long‐term period.

CONCLUSION

The lard plus sucrose‐based HFHS diet is the most efficient one for inducing signs of metabolic syndrome, and SD rats fed this diet for 8 weeks successfully develop obesity and insulin resistance, which can be used as a model for metabolic syndrome research. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessment of microsurgery competency‐where are we now?
Authors: Ramachandran Savitha , Ghanem Ali M. , Myers Simon R.
Published: May 2013

In the last decade surgical training is being revolutionized by two novel concepts that have been introduced to almost all branches of surgery including and most recently to microsurgery. These two concepts are: objective assessments of surgical skills and the nurturing of surgical skills in a simulation laboratory setting. Acquiring surgical skills in the laboratory setting can help move the microsurgical learning curve from the patient to the laboratory and this will in turn improve patient safety. In order to optimize microsurgical training through a competency based training programme, it is imperative for microsurgical educators to understand microsurgical skill acquisition. This requires accurate objective assessment tools that can define and quantify microsurgical competency. This article aims to review the current literature on the various objective assessment tools adapted for microsurgery and attempt to identify the gaps that need to be addressed by research in microsurgical education to establish the ideal objective assessment tool. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:406–415, 2013.
Characterization by NMR of reactants and products of hydrofluoroether isomers, CF3(CF2)3OCH3 and (CF3)2C(F)CF2OCH3, reacting with isopropyl alcohol
Authors: Knachel Howard C. , Benin Vladimir , Moddeman William E. , Birkbeck Janine C. , Kestner Thomas A. , Young Tanya L.
Published: May 2013

The 3M Company product Novec™ 71IPA DL, a mixture of methoxyperfluorobutane, methoxyperfluoroisobutane and 4.5 wt.% isopropyl alcohol, has been found to be very stable at ambient temperature, producing fluoride at the rate of ~1 ppm/year. Our earlier kinetic and theoretical studies have identified the reaction mechanism. This paper identifies the 1H and 19F NMR chemical shifts, multiplicities, and coupling constants of reactants and the major products that result from aging the mixture in sealed Pyrex NMR tubes for periods up to 1.8 years at temperatures from 26 °C to 102 °C. Chemical shifts and coupling constants of fluorine and hydrogen atoms on the hydrofluoroethers and isopropyl alcohol are traced through the reactions to their values in the products – esters, isopropylmethyl ether, and HF. These spectral positions, multiplicities, and coupling constants are presented in table format and as figures to clarify the transformations observed as the samples age. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Late diagnosis of fetal central nervous system anomalies following a normal second trimester anatomy scan
Authors: Yinon Y. , Katorza E. , Nassie D. I. , Ben‐Meir E. , Gindes L. , Hoffmann C. , Lipitz S. , Achiron R. , Weisz B.
Published: May 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the nature of central nervous system (CNS) anomalies diagnosed during the third trimester following a normal anatomy scan at 21–24 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of all pregnant women referred to the fetal medicine unit at Sheba Medical Center between 2005 and 2011 due to fetal CNS anomalies detected at the late second and third trimesters following a normal anatomy scan at 21–24 weeks of gestation.

Results

During the study period, 47 patients were diagnosed with fetal CNS anomalies at a median gestational age of 31.1 weeks (range 24–38). The four most common anomalies found included intracranial cysts (19%), mild ventriculomegaly (15%), absence or dysgenesis of the corpus callosum (10%), and intracerebral hemorrhage (10%). Other CNS anomalies detected in this group of patients included hydrocephalus, Dandy walker malformation, large cysterna magna, microcephalus with lissencephaly, craniosynestosis, periventricular pseudocysts, global brain ischemia, cerebellar hypoplasia, and sub‐ependymal nodule.

Conclusions

Fetal brain continues to evolve throughout gestation, and therefore, some of the CNS anomalies can be diagnosed only during late second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Consequently, in patients who have a third trimester scan for any reason, assessment of the fetal CNS should be considered. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photo‐control of biological systems with azobenzene polymers
Authors: Goulet‐Hanssens Alexis , Barrett Christopher J.
Published: May 2013

Azobenzene‐containing polymers offer tremendous advantages and opportunities over other stimuli‐responsive materials to interface with biology. Azobenzene's fast, reversible, and innocuous cis–trans geometrical isomerization can be leveraged into dramatic intra‐ and inter‐molecular changes when incorporated in polymeric materials. Azobenzene use has grown from a colorant, through to optical storage materials, and most recently in a variety of biologically themed applications. This review highlights the broad impact this photo‐switch has had in recent years and offers a snapshot of the research landscape at the interface between photochemistry and biology. From photo‐reversible micelles and peptides to controlled drug release and sensing, the versatility of azobenzene makes it a favored photo‐switch found in many emerging applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3058–3070
Work function and Young's modulus of platinum nanotubes: Density functional study
Authors: Das Monoj , Mukherjee Prajna , Konar Shyamal , Gupta Bikash C.
Published: May 2013

Using density functional theory we have calculated work function and Young's modulus of various platinum nanotubes. On the average, work functions of achiral platinum nanotubes increase with increasing diameter and those of chiral nanotubes are found to increase with increasing chirality. This study also finds that Young's modulus of single wall platinum nanotubes increase with increasing diameter and approaches a saturation value in the higher diameter region. Reasons behind such observations are explained.
Electrical transport in C‐doped GaAs nanowires: surface effects
Authors: Casadei Alberto , Schwender Jil , Russo‐Averchi Eleonora , Rüffer Daniel , Heiss Martin , Alarcó‐Lladó Esther , Jabeen Fauzia , Ramezani Mohammad , Nielsch Kornelius , Morral Anna Fontcuberta i
Published: May 2013

magnified image

The resistivity and mobility of carbon‐doped GaAs nanowires have been studied for different doping concentrations. Surface effects have been evaluated by comparing unpassivated with passivated nanowires. We directly see the influence of the surface: the pinning of the Fermi level and the consequent existence of a depletion region lead to an increase of the mobility up to 30 cm2/Vs for doping concentrations lower than 3 × 1018 cm–3. Electron beam induced current measurements show that the minority carrier diffusion path can be as high as 190 nm for passivated nanowires.

magnified image

(© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Repairable Mechanical System Reliability Assessment Methodology Applied in a Steelmaking Context
Authors: Owen R. J. , Grosvenor R.I. , Porretta S. , Prickett P. W.
Published: May 2013

An analysis method for reliability assessment of repairable mechanical systems is presented in the context of the hot strip mill section of large steelworks. The reliability analysis process is defined and operated using a three‐level modelling procedure, each of which functions within a different time base, thus enabling the timely identification of potential deviations in reliability performance. The main modelling approach deployed is based upon the Power Law Process, which is embedded within an automated analysis tool. The efficacy of each of the deployed modelling process is determined by the application of appropriate statistical tests. The results from this process are used to enable an in‐depth analysis of why the reliability performance of the system under review has changed. A practical application is presented with reference to two strip coilers that operate within the hot strip mill. The approach is, however, generic and would be applicable to any large‐scale mechanical repairable system. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exact Relationship of C″pk with Proportion of Nonconformance and Some Other Properties of C″p(u,v)
Authors: Chatterjee Moutushi , Chakraborty Ashis Kumar
Published: May 2013

Establishing relationship between two parallel measures of process performance, namely, process capability indices and proportion of nonconformance (PNC), is a very challenging problem and has been studied by many researchers. The situation worsens for asymmetric specifications as in that case, the PNC differs depending on which one of the specification limits is under consideration. Although some formulation of the upper bound of PNC as a function of C″pk = C″p(1,0) is available, very little has been carried out for similar formulation of an exact relationship between C″pk and expected PNC. In the present article, this problem has been addressed, and it has been shown that the proposed formulation is analogous to that of the symmetric specification. Moreover, the expected PNC values are also less than the already available upper bounds. Some other useful properties of C″p(u,v) such as the interrelationship between member indices of the superstructure, threshold value of C″p = C″p(0,0), and optimality on target of C″p(u,v) have also been studied. A numerical example has been discussed to strengthen the theoretical findings. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of natural‐abundance δ15N values and quantities of individual amino acids in proteins from milk of lactating women and from infant hair using gas chromatography/isotope ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Tea Illa , Le Guennec Adrien , Frasquet‐Darrieux Marine , Julien Maxime , Romek Katarzyna , Antheaume Ingrid , Hankard Régis , Robins Richard J.
Published: May 2013

RATIONALE

In isotope tracer experiments used in nutritional studies, it is frequently desirable both to determine the 15N/14N ratios of target compounds and to quantify these compounds. This report shows how this can be achieved in a single chromatographic run for protein amino acids using an isotope ratio mass spectrometer.

METHODS

Protein hydrolysis by acidic digestion was used to release amino acids, which were then derivatized as their N‐pivaloyl‐O‐isopropyl esters. Suitable conditions for sample preparation were established for both hair and milk proteins. The N‐pivaloyl‐O‐isopropyl esters of amino acids were separated by gas chromatography (GC) on a 60 m ZB‐WAX column linked via a combustion interface to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer. The 15N/14N ratios were obtained from the m/z 28, 29 and 30 peak intensities and the quantities from the Area All (Vs) integrated peak areas.

RESULTS

It is shown from a five‐point calibration curve that both parameters can be measured reliably within the range of 1.0 to 2.0 mg/mL for the major amino acids derived from the hydrolysis of human maternal milk or hair samples. The method was validated in terms of inter‐day and inter‐user repeatability for both parameters for 14 amino acids. The amino acid percentage composition showed a good correlation with literature values. The method was applied to determine the variability in a population of lactating mothers and their infants.

CONCLUSIONS

It has been established that δ15N values can be simultaneously determined for a complex mixture of amino acids at variable concentrations. It is shown that the percentage composition obtained correlates well with that obtained by calculation from the protein composition or from literature values. This procedure should provide a significant saving in analysis time, especially in those cases where the GC run‐time is necessarily long. It allows the satisfactory determination of the variation within a sample population. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extending the Peters–Belson approach for assessing disparities to right censored time‐to‐event outcomes
Authors: Eberly Lynn E. , Hodges James S. , Savik Kay , Gurvich Olga , Bliss Donna Z. , Mueller Christine
Published: May 2013

The Peters–Belson (PB) method was developed for quantifying and testing disparities between groups in an outcome by using linear regression to compute group‐specific observed and expected outcomes. It has since been extended to generalized linear models for binary and other outcomes and to analyses with probability‐based sample weighting. In this work, we extend the PB approach to right‐censored survival analysis, including stratification if needed. The extension uses the theory and methods of expected survival on the basis of Cox regression in a reference population. Within the PB framework, among the groups to be compared, one group is chosen as the reference group, and outcomes in that group are modeled as a function of available predictors. By using this fitted model's estimated parameters, and the predictor values for a comparator group, the comparator group's expected outcomes are then calculated and compared, formally with testing and informally with graphics, with their observed outcomes. We derive the extension, show how we applied it in a study of incontinence in nursing home elderly, and discuss issues in implementing it. We used the ‘survival’ package in the R system to do computations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining multiple imputation and meta‐analysis with individual participant data
Authors: Burgess Stephen , White Ian R. , Resche‐Rigon Matthieu , Wood Angela M.
Published: May 2013

Multiple imputation is a strategy for the analysis of incomplete data such that the impact of the missingness on the power and bias of estimates is mitigated. When data from multiple studies are collated, we can propose both within‐study and multilevel imputation models to impute missing data on covariates. It is not clear how to choose between imputation models or how to combine imputation and inverse‐variance weighted meta‐analysis methods. This is especially important as often different studies measure data on different variables, meaning that we may need to impute data on a variable which is systematically missing in a particular study. In this paper, we consider a simulation analysis of sporadically missing data in a single covariate with a linear analysis model and discuss how the results would be applicable to the case of systematically missing data. We find in this context that ensuring the congeniality of the imputation and analysis models is important to give correct standard errors and confidence intervals. For example, if the analysis model allows between‐study heterogeneity of a parameter, then we should incorporate this heterogeneity into the imputation model to maintain the congeniality of the two models. In an inverse‐variance weighted meta‐analysis, we should impute missing data and apply Rubin's rules at the study level prior to meta‐analysis, rather than meta‐analyzing each of the multiple imputations and then combining the meta‐analysis estimates using Rubin's rules. We illustrate the results using data from the Emerging Risk Factors Collaboration. © 2013 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Comparison of Risk Analysis Approaches and a Case Study of the Risk of Incorporating Solar Photovoltaic Systems into a Commercial Electric Power Grid
Authors: Chaves Andrea , Terry Bahill A.
Published: May 2013

This paper compares two common risk‐modeling approaches and then uses them to analyze the risk of incorporating solar photovoltaic (PV) systems into a commercial electric power grid. It uses procedures from both approaches such as Hierarchical Holographic Models, frequency and severity normalization, and avoiding numerical skewing by rare but serious events: It describes the benefits and limitations of these approaches. Then, this paper summarizes the main risks associated with incorporating Solar PV panel systems into a commercial electric power grid, presents a what‐if analysis for extreme scenarios, and explains mitigation strategies to ameliorate these risks. Finally, the paper points out some possible unintended consequences of incorporating Solar PV systems into a commercial electric power grid.
Coordination Abilities of Di‐2‐picolylphenylphosphane Judged on the Basis of Charge Density Investigations
Authors: Objartel Ina , Leusser Dirk , Engelhardt Felix , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar
Published: May 2013

The hindered reactivity of [PhP(CH2Py)2LiCl]2(2) compared to the coordination behavior of the lithium chloride free ligand PhP(CH2Py)2(Py = 2‐pyridyl) (1) could be elucidated by means of experimental electron density studies. According to the successful synthesis of metal complexes containing the dianionicJanus Headligand [PhP(CHPy)2]2–, the formation and the coordination pattern of the monoanionic ligand [PhP{C(H)Py}(CH2Py)]–was examined. The reaction of ligand1withn‐butyllithium/PMDETA and the superbase n‐butyllithium/NaOtBu, respectively, led to the alkali metal complexes [(PMDETA)Li{C(H)Py}P(CH2Py)Ph] (5) and [(PyCH2)PhP{C(H)Py}Na(Et2O)]2(6).
Characterisation of Ternary Complex Formation Between [RuIII(edta)]– and Various Bidentate Ligands
Authors: Jakusch Tamás , Kiss Tamás
Published: May 2013

Speciations of ruthenium(III)‐edta complexes of bidentate (O, O) (N, O) and (S, O) donor type ligands were determined by pH‐potentiometry and UV/Vis spectrophotometry in aqueous solution. Complexes of [RuIII(edtaHx)L]2– (x = 0, 1, 2 and 3) stoichiometry were only formed and the fully deprotonated species dominate at the physiological pH 7.4. Protonation occurs at the free carboxylate arms of edta; when x = 3 one of the coordination positions of the RuIII becomes free. Formation of protonated ternary complexes are more characteristic for ligands with (N, O) and (S, O) donor sets where the complex formation started (ligands with (N, O) donor set) or completed (ligands with (S, O) donor set) already at pH 2. In acidic conditions the stability order of the complexes follows the (O, O) < (N, O) < (S, O) sequence, which changes slightly for the physiological pH 7.4: (O, O) ≈ (N, O) < (S, O). The complexes formed were characterised also by LNT EPR spectroscopy. The kinetics of the ligand exchange between ternary complexes at pH 6 was found to be dissociative. The reaction rate follows basically the stability order: (O, O) < (N, O) < (S, O). No side reactions were found when the ligands replaced had (O, O) donor set; but formation of [RuIII(edta)(L1),(L2)]3– was hypothesised in the case of ligands with (N, O) or (S, O) donor sets.
Synthesis, Structural, Spectroscopic, Electrochemical, Magnetic, and Catalytic Properties of the Trinuclear MnIII Triplesalen Complex [(talen){Mn(OAc)}3] Exhibiting Three Salen‐Subunits in a β‐cis‐Conformation
Authors: Krickemeyer Erich , Kaiser Yvonne , Stammler Anja , Bögge Hartmut , Glaser Thorsten
Published: May 2013

Reaction of the triplesalen ligand H6talen with three equivalents Mn(OAc)2·4H2O in MeOH results in the formation of a brown solid which upon recrystallization from CH3CN provides the trinuclear complex [(talen){Mn(OAc)}3]·7CH3CN as evidenced by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The triple tetradentate ligand (talen)6– coordinates to three MnIII ions in the rare β‐cis‐conformation of the salen‐like ligand compartments with the central oxygen donor (Oc) being rotated out of the plane. This results in a longer Mn–Oc bond length of 2.00 Å compared to the mean Mn–Ot bond lengths of the terminal phenolates at 1.86 Å. The six‐coordination is saturated by bidentate OAc– ligands. The electronic absorption spectrum measured in MeOH appears to be almost identical to all other complexes already studied possessing a {(talen)MnIII3}3+ subunit (in the trans‐conformation). The spectra measured in CH2Cl2 and CH3CN exhibit significant variations of the absorption features in the CT region above 20000 cm–1 and a low‐energy shift of the d‐d transitions from a shoulder around 18000 cm–1 in CH3OH to maxima around 13000 cm–1 in CH2Cl2 and CH3CN. This indicates a physical dissolution of [(talen){Mn(OAc)}3] in CH2Cl2 and CH3CN solutions without major structural rearrangements, while in MeOH solution a structural rearrangement to the preferred trans‐conformation of the salen‐like coordination compartments occurs loosing the bidentate coordination mode of the OAc– ligands. Electrochemical measurements reveal unresolved irreversible processes in the range 0.9–1.4 V vs. Fc+/Fc corresponding to oxidations of the MnIII‐phenolate units, while irreversible reductive waves in the range –0.7–(–1.2) V vs. Fc+/Fc correspond to MnIII to MnII reductions. The analysis of the magnetic data reveals a weaker antiferromagnetic interaction of J = –0.067 cm–1 and a stronger zero‐field splitting of D = –5.57 cm–1 in comparison to the complexes with {(talen)MnIII3}3+ subunits in the trans‐conformation consistent with the longer Mn–Oc distances and the asymmetric coordination environment, respectively. The complex [(talen){Mn(OAc)}3] catalyzes the epoxidation of 1, 2‐dihydronaphthalene with iodosylbenzene with complete conversion at room temperature.
Tetrakis(ferrocenecarbonitrile) Copper(I) Complexes
Authors: Strehler Frank , Hildebrandt Alexander , Korb Marcus , Lang Heinrich
Published: May 2013

The homoleptic tetrakis(ferrocenecarbonitrile) copper(I) complexes [Cu(N≡CFc)4]A [A = BF4 (3a), A = SO3CF3 (3b)] were succefully prepared by treatment of copper with the copper(II) salt [CuA2]·xH2O [A = BF4, x = 5 (1a); A = SO3CF3, x = 0 (1b)] in presence of cyanoferrocene (2). For 3a the tetrahedral arrangement of the four ferrocenecarbonitrile ligands at the copper atom was proven by single X‐ray diffraction studies. The FcC≡N units are weakly bonded to copper, which is reflected by a complete ligand exchange upon addition of MeC≡N forming [Cu(N≡CMe)4]BF4 (4). Electrochemical measurements of 3a revealed that all four ferrocenyl units are oxidized in a close potential range and the individual processes are not resolved in the cylic voltammogram. Due to the decrease of electron density at the ferrocenyl termini, the redox event is merely shifted to 456 mV (for comparison, free 2 has E°′ = 436 mV). For 3a intervalence charge transfer (IVCT) absorption between FeII/FeIII and/or CuI/FeIII could not be observed in the in situ UV/Vis/NIR spectra in any oxidation state. This alluded that no electronic interaction between the Fc/Fc+ termini over the –C≡N–CuI–N≡C– connectivities takes place. Nevertheless, upon oxidation a ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer (LMCT) band of the ferrocenium groups at 643 nm is visuable accompanied with a shift in the d‐d transition absorptions of the central iron atoms.
Rhodium(Cp*) Compounds with Flavone‐derived Ligand Systems: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Schwarz Martina B. , Kurzwernhart Andrea , Roller Alexander , Kandioller Wolfgang , Keppler Bernhard K. , Hartinger Christian G.
Published: May 2013

Organometallic rhodium complexes have been reported to exhibit promising anticancer activity and some examples have been investigated more extensively over the last years. Based on recent successes of cytotoxic rhodium compounds, this work describes the synthesis and characterization of organorhodium(III) complexes with 3‐hydroxyflavones as bidentate ligands and η5‐coordinated pentamethylcyclopentadienyl (Cp*). The organorhodium compounds were synthesized and characterized by means of NMR spectroscopy and single crystals of the compounds were characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Interestingly, the rhodium complexes were isolated with methanol or triflate coordinated to the central rhodium atom, yielding positively‐charged and neutral complexes, respectively. However, none of the complexes prepared were sufficiently soluble in aqueous media to allow testing their cytotoxicity.
A Sulfide‐Bridged Diiron(II) Complex with a N2H4 Ligand
Authors: Stubbert Bryan D. , Vela Javier , Brennessel William W. , Holland Patrick L.
Published: May 2013

A sulfide‐bridged diiron(II) complex bearing a cis‐N2H4 (hydrazine) ligand has been prepared by reaction of LFeII(μ‐S)FeIIL (1; L = sterically encumbered β‐diketiminate ligand) with 2 molar equivalents of N2H4. The metastable diiron(II) hydrazine complex LFeII(μ‐S)(μ‐H2N–NH2)FeIIL (3) is formed, as shown by crystallography, NMR, vibrational, and electronic absorption spectroscopy. Compound 3 has been crystallographically characterized as its DBU (1, 8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene) adduct, which exhibits weak N–H···DBU hydrogen bonding. The synthetic process evolves roughly 2 equivalents of NH3. The cis‐N2H4 bridge in 3 may be relevant to the structure and function of intermediates on the FeMoco of nitrogenase.
Evaluation of Trauma Care in a Mature Level I Trauma Center in The Netherlands: Outcomes in a Dutch Mature Level I Trauma Center
Authors: Lansink Koen W. W. , Gunning Amy C. , Spijkers Anique T. E. , Leenen Luke P. H.
Published: May 2013

Background

Trauma centers are associated with improved survival rates and outcomes in trauma patients. In 2000 our hospital officially became a level I trauma center. The implementation of the trauma center model showed a significant reduction in mortality and hospital length of stay in our hospital and throughout the trauma region. The aim of the present prospective database study was to present the outcomes of patients treated during the course of further maturation of a level I trauma center.

Methods

We performed the prospective database study and included and analyzed outcome data for all adult trauma patients admitted to our trauma center during the years 2003 through 2006 (period 1) and 2007 through 2010 (period 2).

Results

A total of 5,299 patients were included; 2,419 in period 1 and 2,880 in period 2. Mean Injury Severity Score (ISS) increased from 12.6 to 13.8 (p < 0.001). Mean Revised Trauma Score decreased from 7.4 to 7.2 (p < 0.001). Penetrating injuries increased from 111 (4.6 %) to 192 (6.7 %) (p < 0.001). More head injuries (+7.2 %) and spine injuries (+3.1 %), and fewer injuries to extremities (−6.5 %) were seen in the second period. Mortality, adjusted for age and ISS, was lower in period 2 (odds ratio [OR]: 0.736, p = 0.010). Adjusted for age, ISS, and survival, both the hospital stay and the intensive care unit stay were shortened (OR: 1.068, p < 0.018; OR: 1.188, p = 0.007). Mean probability of survival was significantly higher in the second period. Moreover, more unexpected survivors were seen in the second period (Z‐score of 3.4 and W‐value of 1.46).

Conclusions

Maturation of the trauma center and the trauma system resulted in improved patient outcomes. A significant increase in unexpected survivors was noted, and shorter hospital stay and ICU stay were achieved. Of note, population‐based studies on trauma system and trauma center performance with statistical analysis by logistic regression are considered strong class III evidence.
Two Decades of Huntington Disease Testing: Patient's Demographics and Reproductive Choices
Authors: Krukenberg Rebekah C. , Koller Daniel L. , Weaver David D. , Dickerson Jennifer N. , Quaid Kimberly A.
Published: May 2013

Predictive testing for Huntington disease (HD) has been available in the United States (US) since 1987, and the Indiana University Predictive Testing Program has been providing this testing since 1990. To date there has been no published description of those who present for such testing in the US. Here we describe demographics of 141 individuals and reproductive decision making of a subset of 16 of those individuals who underwent predictive HD testing between 1990 and 2010 at one site in the US. This study is a retrospective chart review of the “Personal History Questionnaire” participants completed prior to testing. As seen in other studies, most participants were female (64.5 %), in their mid‐30s (mean = 34), and had at least one child prior to testing (54 %). Multiple demographic datum points are described, and the reproductive decision making of these at‐risk individuals was analyzed using Fisher's Exact Tests. Of those women who had children before learning of their risk to inherit HD, those who attended church more frequently, had three or more children total, or whose mother was affected with HD were more likely to be comfortable with their choice to have children. We conclude that these demographic factors influence the reproductive decision‐making of individuals at risk for HD. Psychologists, clinical geneticists, and genetic counselors may be able to use this information to help counsel at‐risk patients regarding current or past reproductive decision making.
Soybean Meal Retains Its Nutritional Value as an Animal Feed Following in Situ Transesterification
Authors: Haas Michael J. , Stroup Robert L. , Latshaw David
Published: May 2013

The lipid‐depleted meal transesterified soybean meal (TSM) coproduct of the in situ transesterification of soybeans to produce biodiesel, and a reference commercial hexane‐extracted soybean meal (HSM), were investigated as poultry feeds. In situ transesterification removed 95 % of the lipid from soybean flakes without destroying amino acids or affecting caloric content. Trypsin inhibitor in TSM was successfully denatured by a steam/heat treatment. Two groups of broiler chicks, each consisting of 300 birds (20/pen), were fed diets whose soy meal component was either TSM or HSM. A block design was used, a ‘block’ consisting of two adjacent pens, one receiving TSM and the other HSM. Starter formulation was fed from day 1 to 21 and grower formulation from day 22 to the end of the study on day 42. Chicks accepted both the TSM and HSM diets. No acute toxicities occurred. Over the course of the study weight gain, feed consumption and feed efficiency were comparable (p ≥ 0.05) between the two test groups. Mortalities in the group receiving TSM exceeded those in the HSM group (6.8 vs. 3.4 %), but did not reach statistical significance. Histological examination of the livers of 40 birds sacrificed at the end of the study showed no evidence of pathology in either dietary group. Soybean meal subjected to in situ transesterification is an acceptable component of poultry diets.
Discovery of a novel gene involved in autolysis ofClostridiumcells
Authors: Yang Liejian , Bao Guanhui , Zhu Yan , Dong Hongjun , Zhang Yanping , Li Yin
Published: May 2013

Cell autolysis plays important physiological roles in the life cycle of clostridial cells. Understanding the genetic basis of the autolysis phenomenon of pathogenic Clostridium or solvent producing Clostridium cells might provide new insights into this important species. Genes that might be involved in autolysis of Clostridium acetobutylicum, a model clostridial species, were investigated in this study. Twelve putative autolysin genes were predicted in C. acetobutylicum DSM 1731 genome through bioinformatics analysis. Of these 12 genes, gene SMB_G3117 was selected for testing the in tracellular autolysin activity, growth profile, viable cell numbers, and cellular morphology. We found that overexpression of SMB_G3117 gene led to earlier ceased growth, significantly increased number of dead cells, and clear electrolucent cavities, while disruption of SMB_G3117 gene exhibited remarkably reduced intracellular autolysin activity. These results indicate that SMB_G3117 is a novel gene involved in cellular autolysis of C. acetobutylicum.
Structural basis for differential recognition of brassinolide by its receptors
Authors: She Ji , Han Zhifu , Zhou Bin , Chai Jijie
Published: May 2013

Brassinosteroids, a group of plant steroid hormones, regulate many aspects of plant growth and development. We and other have previously solved the crystal structures of BRI1(LRR) in complex with brassinolide, the most active brassinosteroid identified thus far. Although these studies provide a structural basis for the recognition of brassinolide by its receptor BRI1, it still remains poorly understood how the hormone differentiates among its conserved receptors. Here we present the crystal structure of the BRI1 homolog BRL1 in complex with brassinolide. The structure shows that subtle differences around the brassinolide binding site can generate a striking effect on its recognition by the BRI1 family of receptors. Structural comparison of BRL1 and BRI1 in their brassinolide-bound forms reveals the molecular basis for differential binding of brassinolide to its different receptors, which can be used for more efficient design of plant growth regulators for agricultural practice. On the basis of our structural studies and others’ data, we also suggest possible mechanisms for the activation of BRI1 family receptors.
Marital Processes, Arranged Marriage, and Contraception to Limit Fertility
Authors: Ghimire Dirgha J. , Axinn William G.
Published: May 2013

An international transition away from familially arranged marriages toward participation in spouse choice has endured for decades and continues to spread through rural Asia today. Although we know that this transformation has important consequences for childbearing early in marriage, we know much less about longer-term consequences of this marital revolution. Drawing on theories of family and fertility change and a rural Asian panel study designed to measure changes in both marital and childbearing behaviors, this study seeks to investigate these long-term consequences. Controlling for social changes that shape both marital practices and childbearing behaviors, and explicitly considering multiple dimensions of marital processes, we find evidence consistent with an independent, long-standing association of participation in spouse choice with higher rates of contraception to terminate childbearing. These results add a new dimension to the evidence linking revolutions in marital behavior to long-term declines in fertility and suggest that new research should consider a broader range of long-term consequences of changing marital processes.
Reactive oxygen species promote chloroplast dysfunction and salicylic acid accumulation in fumonisin B1‐induced cell death
Authors: Xing Fuqiang , Li Zhe , Sun Aizhen , Xing Da
Published: May 2013

We report a novel regulatory mechanism by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate fumonisin B1 (FB1)‐induced cell death. We found that FB1 induction of light‐dependent ROS production promoted the degradation of GFP‐labeled chloroplast proteins and increased phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activity, PAL1 gene expression and SA content, while pretreatment with ROS manipulators reversed these trends. Moreover, treatment with H2O2 or 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole increased PAL activity, PAL1 gene expression and SA content. PAL inhibitor significantly blocked FB1‐induced lesion formation and SA increase. Our results demonstrate that light‐dependent ROS accumulation stimulates the degradation of chloroplastic proteins and up‐regulates PAL‐mediated SA synthesis, thus promoting FB1‐induced light‐dependent cell death.
VEGF‐A induces its negative regulator, soluble form of VEGFR‐1, by modulating its alternative splicing
Authors: Saito Tetsuya , Takeda Norihiko , Amiya Eisuke , Nakao Tomoko , Abe Hajime , Semba Hiroaki , Soma Katsura , Koyama Katsuhiro , Hosoya Yumiko , Imai Yasushi , Isagawa Takayuki , Watanabe Masafumi , Manabe Ichiro , Komuro Issei , Nagai Ryozo , Maemura Koji
Published: May 2013

Vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGF‐A) is one of the major angiogenic factors, and its actions are primarily mediated through its two membrane receptors, VEGFR‐1 and VEGFR‐2. A soluble form of VEGFR‐1 (sVEGFR‐1) sequesters the free form of VEGF‐A, and acts as a potent anti‐angiogenic factor. While sVEGFR‐1 is synthesized as a splice variant of VEGF‐R1 gene, the interactions between VEGF‐A and sVEGFR‐1 remain largely unknown. Here, we show that VEGF‐A upregulates sVEGF‐R1 expression in human vascular endothelial cells but leaves full‐length VEGF‐R1 expression unchanged, and that this induction was dependent on the VEGFR‐2‐protein kinase C‐MEK signaling pathway. The VEGF‐A‐induced sVEGFR‐1 upregulation can operate as a negative feedback system, which if modulated can become a novel therapeutic target for regulating pathological angiogenesis.
Crystal structure of the N‐terminal domain of a glycoside hydrolase family 131 protein from Coprinopsis cinerea
Authors: Miyazaki Takatsugu , Yoshida Makoto , Tamura Mizuki , Tanaka Yutaro , Umezawa Kiwamu , Nishikawa Atsushi , Tonozuka Takashi
Published: May 2013

The crystal structure of the N‐terminal putative catalytic domain of a glycoside hydrolase family 131 protein from Coprinopsis cinerea (CcGH131A) was determined. The structure of CcGH131A was found to be composed of a β‐jelly roll fold and mainly consisted of two β‐sheets, sheet‐A and sheet‐B. A concave of sheet‐B, the possible active site, was wide and shallow, and three glycerol molecules were present in the concave. Arg96, Glu98, Glu138, and His218 are likely to be catalytically critical residues, and it was suggested that the catalytic mechanism of CcGH131A is different from that of typical glycosidases.
THE EPISTEMIC ACCOUNT OF PRIVACY
Authors: Blaauw Martijn
Published: May 2013

Privacy is valued by many. But what it means to have privacy remains less than clear. In this paper, I argue that the notion of privacy should be understood in epistemic terms. What it means to have (some degree of) privacy is that other persons do not stand in significant epistemic relations to those truths one wishes to keep private.
ANONYMOUS ASSERTIONS
Authors: Goldberg Sanford C.
Published: May 2013

This paper addresses how the anonymity of an assertion affects the epistemological dimension of its production by speakers, and its reception by hearers. After arguing that anonymity does have implications in both respects, I go on to argue that at least some of these implications derive from a warranted diminishment in speakers' and hearers' expectations of one another when there are few mechanisms for enforcing the responsibilities attendant to speech. As a result, I argue, anonymous assertions do not carry the same ‘promise’ of the speaker's relevant epistemic authoritativeness that ordinary assertions do. If this is correct, the phenomenon of anonymity provides us with a lesson regarding ordinary assertions: their aptness for engendering belief in others, and so for communicating knowledge, depends in general on the very publicness of the act of assertion itself.
EPISTEMOLOGICAL DIMENSIONS OF INFORMATIONAL PRIVACY
Authors: Kappel Klemens
Published: May 2013

It seems obvious that informational privacy has an epistemological component; privacy or lack of privacy concerns certain kinds of epistemic relations between a cogniser and sensitive pieces of information. One striking feature of the fairly substantial philosophical literature on informational privacy is that the nature of this epistemological component of privacy is only sparsely discussed. The main aim of this paper is to shed some light on the epistemological component of informational privacy.
IS THERE EPISTEMIC JUSTIFICATION FOR SECRECY IN SCIENCE?
Authors: de Ridder Jeroen
Published: May 2013

Empirical evidence shows that secrecy in science has increased over the past decades, partly as a result of the commercialization of science. There is a good prima facie case against secrecy in science. It is part of the traditional ethos of science that it is a collective and open truth-seeking endeavor. In this paper, I will investigate whether secrecy in science can ever be epistemically justified. To answer this question, I first distinguish between different sorts of secrecy. Next, I propose an account of what it is for a practice to be epistemically justified, with the help of work by Alvin Goldman and Philip Kitcher. I then discuss motivations for secrecy in science that are found in the literature to see whether they amount to, or can be turned into, epistemic justifications for secrecy. The conclusion is that, although some forms of secrecy – particularly those motivated by universal moral concerns – are epistemically justified, secrecy that arises from special, often commercial, interests is not.
Embracing performance measurement in mental health services
Authors: Carrick H. , Purcell R. , Byrne M.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Performance measurement (PM) is central to the current Irish health service policy. However, PM within the Irish mental health services has not been fully implemented. These services lack a national comprehensive suite of performance indicators (PIs). Those indicators that are measured do not tend to reflect the objectives of the managers and staff measuring them. To overcome these challenges, this article suggests a suite of measures and aims to provide a practical guide to PM for managers and staff.

Method

A narrative review of a range of policy documents and articles, relevant to PM in the Irish mental health services, was undertaken.

Findings

The search produced a number of themes illustrating the limitations of the current set of PIs for Irish mental health services, in particular the need for comprehensive PIs, including structure, process and outcome PIs. This informed the development of a suite of proposed PIs for mental health services. A number of additional themes highlighted the criticisms associated with the top-down approach used to implement PM. Drawing from these themes, a bottom-up approach to PM is proposed.

Conclusion

Although this review was selective in nature, it illustrates how the concerns of clinicians and service managers can be integrated with the priorities of the Health Service Executive and the Department of Health. This presented the suite of PIs and the practical guide that provide useful PM tools. While also applicable at a national level, this paper provides guidance for service managers as to the process of establishing and implementing a suite of PIs within their own service.
Follow the Pollsters: Inaccuracies in Media Coverage of the Horse-race during the 2008 Canadian Election
Authors: Pétry François , Bastien Frédérick
Published: May 2013

Abstract.We identify frequent inaccuracies in journalistic interpretations of the horse race (“who is ahead?”) and of change over time (“who is gaining?”) in poll reports during the Canadian election of 2008. We test two explanations. The “mistaken mindset” hypothesis holds that journalists exaggerate the horse race because they systematically miscalculate the margin of error. The “follow-the-pollster” hypothesis holds that journalists follow the horse-race interpretations that they find in pollsters' reports. We find strong support for the “follow-the-pollster” hypothesis in the data and in interviews with pollsters and journalists and conclude that pollsters' reports should be a key element to consider in any attempt to improve the level of accuracy in media reports of the horse race.

Résumé.Les journalistes ont souvent commis des erreurs d'interprétation de la marge d'erreur dans les résultats de sondages pendant la campagne électorale canadienne de 2008. Cela les a conduits à surestimer l'avance du parti gagnant et le changement dans le score d'un parti entre deux sondages successifs. Comment expliquer ces erreurs fréquentes? Une première hypothèse affirme que cette surestimation provient du fait que les journalistes se trompent systématiquement dans le calcul de la marge d'erreur. Selon une deuxième hypothèse, les journalistes connaissent tellement mal la marge d'erreur qu'ils se fient à l'interprétation qu'en font les maisons de sondage. Les données empiriques et les réponses aux questions d'entretiens soutiennent la deuxième hypothèse. Nous en concluons que pour mieux porter fruits, les efforts pour améliorer l'interprétation de la marge d'erreur devraient cibler les maisons de sondage autant que les journalistes.
Property Rights and Transitional Justice: A Forward-Looking Argument
Authors: Perez Nahshon
Published: May 2013

Abstract.This article aims to describe a forward-looking approach to the problem of property rights in transitional justice contexts. Undemocratic regimes violate property rights in various ways, from simple theft to violations of opportunities to appropriate. Therefore, post-transition situations entail an obligation to correct such injustices. However, returning to the status quo ante is complex, costly and requires information that is often not available. An alternative is the suggested FCR: forward looking, commensurable and redistributive. Such an approach emphasizes the creation of a baseline of ownership and welfare rather than an attempt to return to the status quo ante.

Résumé.Cet article tente de décrire un argument tourné vers l'avenir au sujet du problème des droits de propriété en contexte de justice transitionnelle. Les régimes non démocratiques violent les droits de propriété de multiple façons, de la simple usurpation à la violation des opportunités d'appropriation. Par conséquent, les situations post transitionnelles impliquent une obligation de corriger de telles injustices. Cependant, le retour au status quo ante s'avère complexe, coûteux et requiert de l'information qui, souvent, n'est plus disponible. Une alternative est l'argument suggéré FCR : prospectif, commensurable et redistributif. Une telle approche met l'emphase sur la création des conditions de base du droit à la propriété et du bien-être, plutôt que sur la tentative de restituer le status quo antérieur.