bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political Left and Right: Our Hands-On Logic
Authors: Bienfait Frits , van Beek Walter E. A.
Published: December 2014

The origins and immediate vitality of the left/right divide which emerged in French revolutionary politics from 1789 can only be understood against the background of a much older classification dynamic based on the primacy of the right hand, first described by Robert Hertz in 1909. This dynamic infused political thinking first in Versailles and since 1815 in democracies throughout the world. In the process, the classical left/right polarity acquired a new dimension: the complementary notions of ‘accepting’ and ‘questioning’ the existing social order. An essential feature of both the age-old classical polarity and the ensuing political polarity is that they are intimately bound up with local and evolving social contexts: there is no single content-based definition of left and right. As long as the majority of us are predisposed to use our right hand when acting in the world, ‘left versus right’ will remain the most important political antithesis in western-type democracies.
Glacial isostatic adjustment in the static gravity field of Fennoscandia
Authors: Root B. C. , van der Wal W. , Novák P. , Ebbing J. , Vermeersen L. L. A.
Published: December 2014

In the central part of Fennoscandia, the crust is currently rising, because of the delayed response of the viscous mantle to melting of the Late Pleistocene ice sheet. This process, called Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA), causes a negative anomaly in the present‐day static gravity field as isostatic equilibrium has not been reached yet. Several studies have tried to use this anomaly as a constraint on models of GIA, but the uncertainty in crustal and upper mantle structures has not been fully taken into account. Therefore, our aim is to revisit this using improved crustal models and compensation techniques. We find that in contrast with other studies, the effect of crustal anomalies on the gravity field cannot be effectively removed, because of uncertainties in the crustal and upper mantle density models. Our second aim is to estimate the effects on geophysical models, which assume isostatic equilibrium, after correcting the observed gravity field with numerical models for GIA. We show that correcting for GIA in geophysical modelling can give changes of several kilometer in the thickness of structural layers of modeled lithosphere, which is a small but significant correction. Correcting the gravity field for GIA prior to assuming isostatic equilibrium and inferring density anomalies might be relevant in other areas with ongoing postglacial rebound such as North America and the polar regions.
On the Number of Ancestral Human Species
Authors: Curnoe Darren
Published: December 2014

For the clade containing humans and other bipedal apes (or ‘hominins’), species diversity and the tempo and mode of macroevolution remain major controversies. The present contribution considers these issues within a broad framework provided by living Catarrhines and employing molecular clocks for species branching times. The fossil record is shown to likely dramatically under sample species diversity for the hominin clade while at the same time substantially underestimating species longevity. Finally, the tempo of speciation is found to be much shorter in hominins than typically seen in Catarrhines suggesting the human clade may be characterised by a large number of rapidly evolving and relatively short‐lived species.

Key Concepts:

The clade containing humans (Tribe Hominini: vernacular ‘hominins’) possesses a large and diverse fossil record.

All hominins except one (
Homo sapiens
) are now extinct, a paradox when compared to most primate groups.

A proper understanding of hominin macroevolution requires a stable taxonomic framework founded in a reliable estimate of taxonomically relevant diversity.

Hominin systematics is polarised into phenetic and cladistic schools of thought, each recognising starkly different levels of taxic diversity.

Central to the historical practice of systematics has been the comparative method wherein evolutionary insights are provided by phylogenetic context.

Hominins belong to the Parvorder Catarrhini, making Old World monkeys and apes phylogenetically appropriate analogues for testing scenarios about diversity and macroevolution.

Molecular data for living and increasingly extinct primate species may be employed to test the question of diversity and to examine broad macroevolutionary trends.

Molecular datasets avoid many of the biases and major gaps in the fossil record as well as providing an independent dataset to test existing scenarios.

Primates are a charismatic mammal with an abundance of genetic data available for testing hominin macroevolution.

Comparative investigations employing Catarrhine molecular data offer the potential to resolve conflicting hominin systematic and macroevolutionary hypotheses.
Patients' Considerations in the Decision‐Making Process of Initiating Disease‐Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs
Authors: Nota Ingrid , Drossaert Constance H. C. , Taal Erik , van de Laar Mart A. F. J.
Published: December 2014

Objective

To explore what considerations patients have when deciding about disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and what information patients need to participate in the decision‐making process.

Methods

In‐depth face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 32 patients with inflammatory arthritis who recently consulted their rheumatologist and discussed initiating DMARDs.

Results

Beliefs in the necessity of DMARDs, either for relief of symptoms or prevention of future joint damage, were reasons to initiate DMARDs. Furthermore, trust in the rheumatologist and the health care system was important in this respect. Patients expressed many concerns about initiating DMARDS. These related to the perceived aggressive and harmful nature of DMARDs, potential (or unknown) side effects, influence on fertility and pregnancy, combination with other medicines, time to benefit, and manner of administration. Participants also worried about the future regarding long‐term medication use and drug dependency, and if a medicine proved to be ineffective, about the risks of future treatments and running out of options. To decrease uncertainty, participants wanted to be informed about multiple treatment options, both current and future. They not only wanted clinical information but also information on how the medications could affect their daily lives.

Conclusion

Health education should inform patients about multiple treatment options, for the present as well as for the future. It should enable patients to compare treatments with regard to both clinical aspects as well as possible consequences for their daily lives.
Development of a prompt model for predicting neurological outcomes in patients with return of spontaneous circulation from out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Kumagai Kazumi , Oda Yasutaka , Oshima Chiyomi , Kaneko Tadashi , Kaneda Kotaro , Kawamura Yoshikatsu , Ogino Yasuaki , Yamashita Susumu , Ichihara Kiyoshi , Maekawa Tsuyoshi , Tsuruta Ryosuke
Published: December 2014

Aim

Early prediction of the neurological outcomes of patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest is important to select the optimal clinical management. We hypothesized that clinical data recorded at the site of cardiopulmonary resuscitation would be clinically useful.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients with return of spontaneous circulation after cardiopulmonary resuscitation who were admitted to our university hospital between January 2000 and November 2013 or two affiliated hospitals between January 2006 and November 2013. Clinical parameters recorded on arrival included age (A), arterial blood pH (B), time from cardiopulmonary resuscitation to return of spontaneous circulation (C), pupil diameter (D), and initial rhythm (E). Glasgow Outcome Scale was recorded at 6 months and a favorable neurological outcome was defined as a score of 4–5 on the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Multiple logistic regression analysis was carried out to derive a formula to predict neurological outcomes based on basic clinical parameters.

Results

The regression equation was derived using a teaching dataset (total, n = 477; favourable outcome, n = 55): EP = 1/(1 + e−x), where EP is the estimated probability of having a favorable outcome, and x = (−0.023 × A) + (3.296 × B) − (0.070 × C) − (1.006 × D) + (2.426 × E) − 19.489. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 80%, 92%, and 90%, respectively, for the validation dataset (total, n = 201; favourable outcome, n = 25).

Conclusion

The 6‐month neurological outcomes can be predicted in patients resuscitated from out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest using clinical parameters that can be easily recorded at the site of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Targeted Antithrombotic Protein Micelles
Authors: Kim Wookhyun , Haller Carolyn , Dai Erbin , Wang Xiowei , Hagemeyer Christoph E. , Liu David R. , Peter Karlheinz , Chaikof Elliot L.
Published: December 2014

Activated platelets provide a promising target for imaging inflammatory and thrombotic events along with site‐specific delivery of a variety of therapeutic agents. Multifunctional protein micelles bearing targeting and therapeutic proteins were now obtained by one‐pot transpeptidation using an evolved sortase A. Conjugation to the corona of a single‐chain antibody (scFv), which binds to the ligand‐induced binding site (LIBS) of activated GPIIb/IIIa receptors, enabled the efficient detection of thrombi. The inhibition of thrombus formation was subsequently accomplished by incorporating the catalytically active domain of thrombomodulin (TM) onto the micelle corona for the local generation of activated protein C, which inhibits the formation of thrombin. An effective strategy has been developed for the preparation of protein micelles that can be targeted to sites of activated platelets with broad potential for treatment of acute thrombotic events.
Elementary Steps of Iron Catalysis: Exploring the Links between Iron Alkyl and Iron Olefin Complexes for their Relevance in CH Activation and CC Bond Formation
Authors: Casitas Alicia , Krause Helga , Goddard Richard , Fürstner Alois
Published: December 2014

The alkylation of complexes 2 and 7 with Grignard reagents containing β‐hydrogen atoms is a process of considerable relevance for the understanding of C–H activation as well as C–C bond formation mediated by low‐valent iron species. Specifically, reaction of 2 with EtMgBr under an ethylene atmosphere affords the bis‐ethylene complex 1 which is an active precatalyst for prototype [2+2+2] cycloaddition reactions and a valuable probe for mechanistic studies. This aspect is illustrated by its conversion into the bis‐alkyne complex 6 as an unprecedented representation of a cycloaddition catalyst loaded with two substrates molecules. On the other hand, alkylation of 2 with 1 equivalent of cyclohexylmagnesium bromide furnished the unique iron alkyl species 11 with a 14‐electron count, which has no less than four β‐H atoms but is nevertheless stable at low temperature against β‐hydride elimination. In contrast, the exhaustive alkylation of 1 with cyclohexylmagnesium bromide triggers two consecutive C–H activation reactions mediated by a single iron center. The resulting complex has a diene dihydride character in solution (15), whereas its structure in the solid state is more consistent with an η3‐allyl iron hydride rendition featuring an additional agostic interaction (14). Finally, the preparation of the cyclopentadienyl iron complex 25 illustrates how an iron‐mediated C–H activation cascade can be coaxed to induce a stereoselective CC bond formation. The structures of all relevant new iron complexes in the solid state are presented.
Highly Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Palladium‐Catalyzed [3+2] Cycloaddition of Vinyl Aziridines and α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Xu Chao‐Fan , Zheng Bao‐Hui , Suo Jia‐Jia , Ding Chang‐Hua , Hou Xue‐Long
Published: December 2014

A palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition reaction of vinylaziridines with α,β‐unsaturated ketones, wherein the alkenes have a single activator, is realized in high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity, thus affording 3,4‐disubstituted pyrrolidines in high yields with excellent ee values. The introduction of a methyl group at C1 of the vinyl group the vinylaziridines greatly improves the stereochemistry of the reaction. A plausible transition state is proposed.
Redox‐Neutral α‐Allylation of Amines by Combining Palladium Catalysis and Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Xuan Jun , Zeng Ting‐Ting , Feng Zhu‐Jia , Deng Qiao‐Hui , Chen Jia‐Rong , Lu Liang‐Qiu , Xiao Wen‐Jing , Alper Howard
Published: December 2014

An unprecedented α‐allylation of amines was achieved by combining palladium catalysis and visible‐light photoredox catalysis. In this dual catalysis process, the catalytic generation of allyl radical from the corresponding π‐allylpalladium intermediate was achieved without additional metal reducing reagents (redox‐neutral). Various allylation products of amines were obtained in high yields through radical cross‐coupling under mild reaction conditions. Moreover, the transformation was applied to the formal synthesis of 8‐oxoprotoberberine derivatives which show potential anticancer properties.
Novel temperature‐sensitive and pH‐sensitive polyurethane membranes: preparation and characterization
Authors: Zhou Hu , Yu Bin , Xun Ruiping , Li Ning , Wu Kejian , Sun Hanzhou , Zhou Zhihua
Published: December 2014

The polyurethane (PU) membranes with temperature and pH double sensitivities for water permeation were designed and prepared from a two‐step solution polymerization from the crystalline polycaprolactone diols (PCL), 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) and pH‐sensitive 2,2‐dimethylol propionic acid (DMPA), etc. The structure and properties of PU membranes were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry meter, contact angle tester, mechanical tester, porosity tests, water flux tests, water absorption tests, etc. Results showed that all PU membranes had a similar crystalline melting transition in their soft segments. With increasing DMPA content, or −COOH group content, the mechanical property of PU membranes was decreased, but the surface wettability and porosity of PU membranes were increased, which were expected to improve the water flux and water absorption of PU membranes. When the environment temperature was raised above the temperature of crystal‐melting transition (Tm) of the soft segments, the water fluxes across these PU membranes changed markedly, showing the temperature sensitivity. When pH varied around the dissociation constant (pKa) of DMPA contained in PU(2), PU(3) and PU(4) macromolecules, their water fluxes and water absorption were also obviously changed, showing the pH sensitivity. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Main events occurring in styrene microemulsion polymerization
Authors: López‐Aguilar J. Esteban , Vargas René O. , Escobar‐Toledo Carlos E. , Mendizábal Eduardo , Puig Jorge. E. , López‐Serrano Francisco
Published: December 2014

A previously presented model with four states (conversion, active and inactive particles and micelles) is further tested with conversion versus time experimental data at 50, 60, and 70°C, to recognize the main events occurring in styrene microemulsion polymerization. The S‐shaped conversion–with no overprediction‐ and the bell‐shaped active particles number concentration–evidencing diffusive effects at late stages–versus time data, are well described by the proposed model. It was found that: (i) transfer of monomer and surfactant from micelles to particles occurs, (ii) the capture of radicals by micelles is the only cause of particle nucleation, (iii) the rate coefficient of radical‐entry‐to‐micelles is much smaller than that of exit‐from‐particles, and (iv) no coagulation between particles was detected. The Arrhenius dependency on temperature of the kinetic rate parameters is also reported. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41720.
Deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite on negatively charged polyphosphazene surfaces
Authors: Modzelewski Tomasz , Hotham Ian , Allcock Harry R.
Published: December 2014

A number of polyphosphazenes with negatively charged β‐alanine (β‐Ala) and γ‐amino butyric acid (GABA) side groups were synthesized and studied for their ability to initiate the growth of hydroxyapatite (HAp) during exposure to simulated body fluid (SBF). All the polymers were hydrolytically sensitive, with the final hydrolysis rate dependent on the specific active side groups (GABA > β‐Ala). These systems also underwent extensive mineralization, with calcium phosphate deposited across their entire surface during exposure to SBF (up to 115 wt % gain after 4 weeks). This degree of deposition is a major advance over previously reported polyphosphazene systems, which underwent a maximum of 27 wt % gain after immersion in SBF for 4 weeks. The extent of mineralization over the surface was monitored using environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). In addition, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was used to determine the identity of the mineralized material. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41741.
Myofibroblasts in Murine Cutaneous Fibrosis Originate From Adiponectin‐Positive Intradermal Progenitors
Authors: Marangoni Roberta Goncalves , Korman Benjamin D. , Wei Jun , Wood Tammara A. , Graham Lauren V. , Whitfield Michael L. , Scherer Philipp E. , Tourtellotte Warren G. , Varga John
Published: December 2014

Objective

Accumulation of myofibroblasts in fibrotic skin is a hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma), but the origins of these cells remain unknown. Because loss of intradermal adipose tissue is a consistent feature of cutaneous fibrosis, we sought to examine the hypothesis that myofibroblasts populating fibrotic dermis derive from adipocytic progenitors.

Methods

We performed genetic fate mapping studies to investigate the loss of intradermal adipose tissue and its potential role in fibrosis in mice with bleomycin‐induced scleroderma. Modulation of adipocytic phenotypes ex vivo was investigated in adipose tissue–derived cells in culture.

Results

A striking loss of intradermal adipose tissue and its replacement with fibrous tissue were consistently observed in mice with bleomycin‐induced fibrosis. Loss of adipose tissue and a decline in the expression of canonical adipogenic markers in lesional skin preceded the onset of dermal fibrosis and expression of fibrogenic markers. Ex vivo, subcutaneous adipocytes were driven by transforming growth factor β to preferentially undergo fibrogenic differentiation. Cell fate mapping studies in mice with the adiponectin promoter–driven Cre recombinase transgenic construct indicated that adiponectin‐positive progenitors that are normally confined to the intradermal adipose tissue compartment were distributed throughout the lesional dermis over time, lost their adipocytic markers, and expressed myofibroblast markers in bleomycin‐treated mice.

Conclusion

These observations establish a novel link between intradermal adipose tissue loss and dermal fibrosis and demonstrate that adiponectin‐positive intradermal progenitors give rise to dermal myofibroblasts. Adipose tissue loss and adipocyte–myofibroblast transition might be primary events in the pathogenesis of cutaneous fibrosis that represent novel potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
ENSO influence upon global temperature in nature and in CMIP5 simulations
Authors: Privalsky Victor , Yushkov Vladislav
Published: December 2014

Statistical properties of observed and CMIP5‐simulated bivariate time series ‘annual global surface temperature (AGST) – sea surface temperature in the Niño area 3.4 (SST3.4)’ are analyzed in the time and frequency domains. Both observed and most simulated data show that AGST is explicitly affected by SST3.4 but not vice versa. Though the AGST spectral density is low at intermediate frequencies, most CMIP5 models reproduce its behavior and show the high coherence observed in nature inside that frequency band. However, CMIP5 models show a dependence between AGST and SST3.4 at frequencies below 0.1 year−1, which is not found in nature.
Untersuchungen zum Einfluss der Feuchtigkeit auf die Haftfestigkeit von Oberflächenbeschichtungen auf Holz
Authors: Volkmer Thomas , Glaunsinger Martin , Mannes David , Niemz Peter
Published: December 2014

Es wurden vier verschiedene kommerziell verfügbare Beschichtungssysteme auf Fichtenholz appliziert und anschließend nach drei unterschiedlichen Prozeduren konditioniert: Lagerung im Normalklima bei 20 °C/65 % relativer Luftfeuchte, Behandlung mit flüssigem Wasser im Bereich des Übergangs zwischen Beschichtung und Holz und Konditionierung im Dampfdruckgefälle bis zur Einstellung eines konstanten Dampfstroms. Es konnte ein deutliche Abhängigkeit der Haftfestigkeit von der Konditionierungsart festgestellt werden. Allgemein ist bei einer Auffeuchtung mit einer Reduzierung der Haftung zu rechnen. Diese feuchteabhängige Abnahme ist auf die verringerte Materialfestigkeit der Beschichtung selbst als auch auf die reduzierte Adhäsion zurückzuführen. Weiter können lokale Quellungsunterschiede bei Fichte zwischen Früh‐ und Spätholz zur Einleitung von zusätzlichen Kräften in das System führen und somit eine Scherbelastung zwischen Beschichtung und Holz verursachen. Die Zusammensetzung der Systeme sowie Schichtdicke und Schichtenanzahl haben einen Einfluss auf die Haftfestigkeit, wobei Systeme mit Schichtdicken im Bereich von 130 µm relativ niedrige Haftfestigkeitswerte zeigen. Aufgrund von Praxistests muss dieser Sachverhalt aber nicht mit der Dauerhaftigkeit eines Systems korrelieren.

Investigations on the influence of moisture on the adhesion strength of surface coating of wood. Four different commercially available coating systems have been applied on spruce boards. After application the prepared samples have been conditioned in 3 different environments: standard climate corresponding to 20 °C/ 65 % relative humidity, application of fluid water at the transition zone between wood and coating and in a constant water vapour flow caused by a vapour gradient in the system. Regarding the conditioning procedure a clear dependency with the adhesion strength could be analysed. General increasing humidity causes a reduction of adhesion. The humidity based reduction is related to the loss of material strength of the coating and the reduced adhesion between wood and coating. Further local swelling differences between late and early wood in spruce can induce new forces in the system which creates a shear load in the transition zone wood and coating. The composition of the systems as well as thickness and the number of layers influence the adhesion strength too. Systems with thicknesses of about 130 µm seem to be less strength than thinner ones. But based on practical tests the adhesion strength does not always correspond to the performance and durability of the system.
Vermeidung von Schadstofffreisetzungen im Zuge und nach der technischen Trocknung von Wasserschäden sowie deren technische und wirtschaftliche Optimierung
Authors: Hengsberger Herwig , Kautsch Peter , Schreiber Helmut
Published: December 2014

Im Hinblick auf das steigende Allergiepotential und Umweltbewusstsein der Bevölkerung sowie nicht zuletzt auf die Häufung von (Leitungs‐)Wasserschäden in den letzten Jahren erscheint es dringend geboten, den Standard bei der technischen Trocknung von Fussbodenkonstruktionen zu erhöhen. Da Schimmelpilzwachstum unter optimalen Bedingungen bereits innerhalb eines Tages auftreten kann, kommt dem wirkungsvollen Verschluss der Estrichrandfugen bereits vor Beginn der Trocknungsmaßnahmen und der Beherrschung des Trocknungsluftstroms besondere Bedeutung zu. In Labor‐ und Vor‐Ort‐Versuchen konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Fugenabdichtung mittels in kunststoffvergüteter Dichtschlämme eingebetteter Silikonschläuche im Gegensatz zu Folien oder “dauerelastischen“ Fugenmassen einen wartungsfreien und schallweichen Abschluss der Randfugen ermöglicht, der Schadstofffreisetzungen aus Fußbodenkonstruktionen sowohl während der Trocknung als auch danach zuverlässig verhindert. Gleichzeitig ermöglicht der Verschluss der Estrichrandfugen die Installation eines neuartigen Verfahrens zur gezielten Trocknung auch abgelegener Bereiche und zur Vermeidung von Straßenbildungen des Trocknungsluftstromes in unterschiedlichsten Fußbodenaufbauten.

Avoiding pollutant release during and after technical drying of water damage and its technical and economic optimization. In view of the growing allergy potential and ecological awareness of the population and, not least, the increasing frequency of water (pipe) damage in recent years, it seems imperative to increase the standard of technical drying of floor constructions. Because mould growth can occur within a single day in optimal conditions, it is particularly important to effectively seal screed edge joints before beginning any drying measures and to control the drying air current. Laboratory and in situ experiments have shown that, unlike foils and joint sealers, sealing joints with silicone tubes embedded in plastic‐modified sealing slurries, enables zero‐maintenance, low‐impedance sealing of edge joints that reliably prevents release of pollutants from floor constructions both during and after drying. At the same time, sealing screed edge joints enables installation of an innovative method of selective drying of isolated areas and avoidance of the drying air current forming channels in a wide range of floor structures.
Suppression of IL‐2 Production and Proliferation of CD4+ T Cells by Tuberostemonine O
Authors: Jung Jang Eun , Kil Yun‐Seo , Ryeon Park Hye , Oh Sera , Kyeong Kim Hyo , Gyeong Jeong Mi , Kyoung Seo Eun , Sook Hwang Eun
Published: December 2014

Tuberostemonine stereoisomers are natural alkaloids found in Stemona tuberosa, that are known to have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐infective properties. Tuberostemonine alkaloids inhibit inflammation by suppressing the expression of inflammatory mediators such as cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide synthase. However, the direct immunomodulatory properties of tuberostemonine alkaloids in T cells have not been elucidated so far. In this study, the activities in T cells of tuberostemonine N (TbN) and a novel alkaloid, tuberostemonine O (TbO), isolated from S. tuberosa, were investigated. Although TbN did not have a significant effect on cytokine production in splenic T cells, TbO selectively suppressed interleukin (IL)‐2 production. Moreover, TbO, but not TbN, significantly inhibited IL‐2 production by primary CD4+ T cells and delayed the T‐cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. Addition of excess recombinant IL‐2 restored the decreased cell‐division rates in TbO‐treated CD4+ T cells to control levels. Collectively, these findings suggest that the immunomodulatory effects of TbO occurred by the suppression of IL‐2 expression and IL‐2‐induced T‐cell proliferation, suggesting a potential beneficial role of tuberostemonine alkaloids for the control of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases caused by hyperactivated T cells.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil of Ruta chalepensis L. Growing Wild in Lebanon
Authors: Khoury Madona , Stien Didier , Ouaini Naïm , Eparvier Véronique , Arnold Apostolides Nelly , El Beyrouthy Marc
Published: December 2014

The essential oils (EOs) isolated from the fresh aerial parts of Ruta chalepensis L. collected in North Lebanon were obtained by solvent‐free microwave extraction (Milestone®), yielding 0.12% EO from both the leaves and a mixture of stems and leaves. The EOs were characterized by GC/MS analysis, and 27 components were identified, which were primarily ketones (88.0–93.2%). The main components were nonan‐2‐one and undecan‐2‐one. The antimicrobial activity of the EOs against a Gram‐positive and a Gram‐negative bacterium, a yeast, and a dermatophyte was evaluated using the broth‐microdilution technique and expressed as minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). The EOs revealed moderate in vitro antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans.
Topographic wiring of the retinotectal connection in zebrafish
Authors: Kita Elizabeth M. , Scott Ethan K. , Goodhill Geoffrey J.
Published: December 2014

The zebrafish retinotectal projection provides an attractive model system for studying many aspects of topographic map formation and maintenance. Visual connections initially start to form between 3 and 5 days postfertilization, and remain plastic throughout the life of the fish. Zebrafish are easily manipulated surgically, genetically, and chemically, and a variety of molecular tools exist to enable visualization and control of various aspects of map development. Here, we review zebrafish retinotectal map formation, focusing particularly on the detailed structure and dynamics of the connections, the molecules that are important in map creation, and how activity regulates the maintenance of the map. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 542–556, 2015
Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) oil produced by microwave drying and expeller pressing exhibits low acidity and high oxidative stability
Authors: Santana Isabelle , dos Reis Luciana M.F. , Torres Alexandre G. , Cabral Lourdes M.C. , Freitas Suely P.
Published: December 2014

The influence of drying and extraction on the quality of Hass avocado oil was investigated in this study. Pulp from ripe avocados was ground and dried under microwaves or oven drying with forced air circulation. Pre‐treatment with pectinolytic enzymes in the oven‐drying stage was also assessed. Avocado oil was extracted using expeller pressing or solvent extraction, with petroleum ether or ethanol. Oil from pressed and microwave‐dried avocado pulp presented the lowest acid (0.2 ± 0.02% oleic acid) and peroxide values (4.79 ± 0.004 mEq O2/kg) and the highest oxidative stability (20.8 ± 1.63 h) in contrast with the oil from ethanol extraction (0.42 ± 0.02% oleic acid, 12.2 ± 0.20 mEq O2/kg, and 3.22 ± 0.14 h, respectively). Fatty acid composition did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) between the processes. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that pressed oils were typically moisture free and presented mass losses characteristic of fatty acid and triacylglycerol degradation. Pressing avocado pulp dried under microwaves stands out as a promising alternative for avocado oil processing, as it produces oil with low acidity and high oxidative stability that is appropriate for consumption as an edible oil.

Practical applications: Combining microwave drying and pressing of avocado pulp led to a superior quality avocado oil, in terms of acid value, peroxide value, and oxidative stability. This procedure is a promising technology to obtain solvent‐free avocado oil with potential uses in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and gourmet food products.

Hass avocado oil extracted by a combination of microwave drying and pressing presented the best quality.
Association between the catechol‐O‐methyltransferase polymorphism Val158Met and Alzheimer's disease in a Japanese population
Authors: Shibata Nobuto , Nagata Tomoyuki , Tagai Kenji , Shinagawa Shunichiro , Ohnuma Tohru , Kawai Eri , Kasanuki Koji , Shimazaki Hiromi , Toda Aiko , Tagata Yuko , Nakada Tomoko , Nakayama Kazuhiko , Yamada Hisashi , Arai Heii
Published: December 2014

Objective

Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) plays an important role in dopamine degradation, which is associated with the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and alcoholism. A functional COMT polymorphism, Val158Met (rs4680 G > A), affects the onset of AD and is associated with alcohol dependence through dopamine receptor sensitivity in the prefrontal cortex.

Methods

The aim of this case–control study (398 cases and 149 controls) was to investigate whether Val158Met polymorphism influences the onset of AD stratified according to alcohol consumption and apolipoprotein E (APOE) status. We also used single photon‐emission computed tomography (SPECT) to analyse 26 patients with AD with the polymorphism.

Results

As a function of APOE status, the genotypic frequencies of rs4680 in patients with AD did not differ from those in controls. We detected a significant association between high alcohol consumption in patients with AD (HAC‐AD group) and the polymorphism in genotypic and allelic frequencies. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that the presence of the APOE genotype with rs4680 increased the risk for HAC‐AD synergistically. Hyperperfusion in the right sub‐lobar insula of patients with the G/G genotype was found compared with that of patients with the G/A genotype. SPECT studies showed a relationship between the polymorphism and compensatory reactions for dysfunctions of dopaminergic neurotransmission in AD pathophysiology.

Conclusion

Although genetic association between the polymorphism and the onset of AD in a Japanese population were not observed, the polymorphism affected the risk for HAC‐AD. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemistry of Hermidin: Insights from Extraction Experiments with the Main Alkaloid of Mercurialis perennis L. Tracked by GC/MS and LC/MSn
Authors: Lorenz Peter , Conrad Jürgen , Duckstein Sarina , Kammerer Dietmar R. , Stintzing Florian C.
Published: December 2014

Hermidin (1), a piperidine‐2,3‐dione alkaloid, has been previously detected as a lipophilic constituent in Mercurialis perennis L. and other Mercurialis species. Because of strong electron‐withdrawing effects of its carbonyl groups, an acidic H‐atom is easily subtracted from 1, whereas the latter shows high reactivity towards oxidation reactions or the attack of C‐nucleophilic agents. To obtain a better understanding of possible chemical pathways upon extraction of root parts of M. perennis, the products obtained with different solvents from 1 were investigated. Extraction of M. perennis with aqueous MeOH or EtOH yielded a mixture of hermidin quinone (3), 5‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxy‐5‐(alkoxycarbonyl)‐1‐methyl‐3‐pyrrolin‐2‐ones, 7 and 8, and d,l‐ and meso‐isochrysohermidins, 5 and 6, all of them being investigated by GC/MS and LC/MSn. The latter compounds were supposedly formed by free‐radical reactions, followed by spontaneous benzilic acid rearrangement and esterification. Furthermore, extraction of M. perennis with aqueous Me2CO produced an aldol condensation product, the known alkaloid speranskatine A (9a), which was identified by NMR after chromatographic purification. In a similar manner, a CH2 homolog of speranskatine A (10a) was obtained as a novel compound when ethyl methyl ketone (=butan‐2‐one; EtCOMe) instead of Me2CO was used for extraction. Consequently, 1 easily undergoes artefact formation upon extraction of plant material with polar or slightly polar solvents.
Novel Template Sorbents for Separation of Americium(III) from Nitric Acid Solutions: Search of Optimal Ion‐Imitator of AmIII
Authors: Morgalyuk Vasilii P. , Kalmykov Stepan N. , Strelkova Tat'yana V. , Nifant'ev Eduard E.
Published: December 2014

A series of new template sorbents that enable selective and effective sorption of AmIII from 0.5 to 4M HNO3 solutions containing high concentrations of FeIII and ZrIV was synthesized from (ethenyl)(diphenyl)phosphine oxide. LaIII, CeIII, and PrIII were used as template elements imitating the properties of AmIII. The highest efficiency of separation of AmIII from high amounts of FeIII and ZrIV was displayed by the CeIII‐based sorbent.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐Catalyzed α‐Alkylation of Ketones with Primary Alcohols
Authors: Zhu Yanfang , Cai Chun , Lu Guoping
Published: December 2014

Several N‐heterocyclic carbene precursors are synthesized and used in the α‐alkylations of ketones with primary alcohols. With the assistance of a base, these N‐heterocyclic carbenes can catalyze the reaction smoothly to furnish dialkylated ketones in good‐to‐excellent yields.
Multi‐decadal water table manipulation alters peatland hydraulic structure and moisture retention
Authors: Moore P.A. , Morris P.J. , Waddington J.M.
Published: December 2014

A peatland complex disturbed by berm construction in the 1950s was used to examine the long‐term impact of water table (WT) manipulation on peatland hydraulic properties and moisture retention at three adjacent sites with increasing depth to WT (WET, INTermediate reference and DRY). Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) was found to decrease with depth by several orders of magnitude over a depth of 1–1.5 m at all sites. The depth dependence of WT response to rainfall was similar across sites: WT response increased from 1 : 1 at the surface, to 5 : 1 at 50 cm depth. While surface specific yield (Sy) values were similar across all sites, it decreased with depth at a rate of 0.014 cm−1 in hollows and 0.007 cm−1 in hummocks. Bulk density (ρb) exhibited similar depth‐dependent trends as Sy and explains a high amount of variance (r2 > 0.69) in moisture retention across a range of pore water pressures (−15 to −500 cm H2O). Because of higher ρb, hollow peat had greater moisture retention, where site effects were minimal. However, the estimated residual water content for surface Sphagnum samples, while on average lower in hummocks (0.082 m3 m−3) versus hollows (0.087 m3 m−3), increased from WET (0.058 m3 m−3) to INT (0.088 m3 m−3) to DRY (0.108 m3 m−3) which has important implications for moisture stress under conditions of persistent WT drawdown. Given the potential importance of microtopographic succession for altering peatland hydraulic structure, our findings point to the need for a better understanding of what controls the relative height and proportional coverage of hummocks in relation to long‐term disturbance‐response dynamics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On 2‐Colorings of Hypergraphs
Authors: Henning Michael A. , Yeo Anders
Published: December 2014

In this article, we continue the study of 2‐colorings in hypergraphs. A hypergraph is 2‐colorable if there is a 2‐coloring of the vertices with no monochromatic hyperedge. Let denote the class of all k‐uniform k‐regular hypergraphs. It is known (see Alon and Bregman [Graphs Combin. 4 (1988) 303–306] and Thomassen [J. Amer. Math. Soc. 5 (1992), 217–229] that every hypergraph is 2‐colorable, provided . As remarked by Alon and Bregman the result is not true when , as may be seen by considering the Fano plane. Indeed there are several constructions for building infinite families of hypergraphs in that are not 2‐colorable. Our main result in this paper is a strengthening of the above results. For this purpose, we define a set X of vertices in a hypergraph H to be a free set in H if we can 2‐color such that every edge in H receives at least one vertex of each color. We conjecture that for , every hypergraph has a free set of size in H. We show that the bound cannot be improved for any and we prove our conjecture when . Our proofs use results from areas such as transversal in hypergraphs, cycles in digraphs, and probabilistic arguments.
Simultaneous separation and determination of phenolic acids, pentapeptides, and triterpenoid saponins in the root of Aster tataricus by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Dong‐Xia , Hu Bing‐Qiang , Zhang Mian , Zhang Chao‐Feng , Xu Xiang‐Hong
Published: December 2014

We established a qualitative method to analyze the main chemical compositions of the root of Aster tataricus. Most of the peaks were separated on a C18 column packed with 5.0 μm particles, and 28 compounds were identified, including 11 chlorogenic acids, ten astins/asterinins, and seven astersaponins, four of which were reported for the first time from A. tataricus. Furthermore, we developed a reliable method for the simultaneous quantification of 3‐caffeoylquinic acid, 3,4‐dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid, astin A, astin B, astin C, astersaponin A, and astersaponin C, and the qualified separations were achieved only on a C18 column packed with 2.7 μm particles. The method was used to measure the concentrations of eight components in samples from two major producing areas in China, and the average contents in samples from Bozhou (Anhui) were higher than those in samples from Anguo (Hebei).
New peak broadening parameter for the characterization of separation capability in capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Sursyakova Viktoria V. , Rubaylo Anatoly I.
Published: December 2014

The influence of separation conditions on peak broadening is usually estimated by the number of theoretical plates. Using the data available in literature and experimental data, it is shown that in pressure‐assisted capillary electrophoresis the plate number is not directly related to the separation capability of conditions used. The experiments at different electrolyte flow velocities demonstrate that a higher plate number (the best separation efficiency) can be obtained with a lower peak resolution. Since ions are separated by electrophoresis due to the difference in electrophoretic mobilities, the peak width in terms of electrophoretic mobility is suggested as a new peak broadening parameter describing the separation capability of the conditions used. The parameter can be calculated using the tailing factor and the temporal peak width at 5% of the peak height. A simple equation for the resolution calculation is derived using the parameter. The advantage of the peak width in terms of mobility over other parameters is shown. The new parameter is recommended to be used not only in pressure‐assisted capillary electrophoresis but also in general capillary electrophoresis when in a number of runs the virtual separative migration distance and separation capability of the conditions used change widely.
Coase and the Contribution of ‘The Nature of the Firm’
Authors: Kay Neil M.
Published: December 2014

Coase's ‘The Nature of the Firm’ can be read as contributing to either or both a marginalist or a comparative institutional perspective, although Coase made clear in the paper that he saw its primary contribution as belonging to the former camp. However, it has since tended to be interpreted in comparative institutional terms largely because of O. E Williamson's later work. We argue that it is fortunate for economics and Coase's legacy that Williamson chose to steer recognition of Coase's contribution in that latter direction given structural problems associated with attempting to apply Coase's marginal analysis in this context. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability of the Timed Up and Go test and Ten‐Metre Timed Walk Test in Pregnant Women with Pelvic Girdle Pain
Authors: Evensen Natalie M. , Kvåle Alice , Brækken Ingeborg H.
Published: December 2014

Background and purpose

There is a lack of functional objective tests available to measure functional status in women with pelvic girdle pain (PGP). The purpose of this study was to establish test‐retest and intertester reliability of the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and Ten‐metre Timed Walk Test (10mTWT) in pregnant women with PGP.

Methods

A convenience sample of women was recruited over a 4‐month period and tested on two occasions, 1 week apart to determine test‐retest reliability. Intertester reliability was established between two assessors at the first testing session. Subjects were instructed to undertake the TUG and 10mTWT at maximum speed. One practise trial and two timed trials for each walking test was undertaken on Day 1 and one practise trial and one timed trial on Day 2.

Results

Seventeen women with PGP aged 31.1 years (SD [standard deviation] = 2.3) and 28.7 weeks pregnant (SD = 7.4) completed gait testing. Test‐retest reliability using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was excellent for the TUG (0.88) and good for the 10mTWT (0.74). Intertester reliability was determined in the first 13 participants with excellent ICC values being found for both walking tests (TUG: 0.95; 10mTWT: 0.94).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the TUG and 10mTWT undertaken at fast pace are reliable, objective functional tests in pregnant women with PGP. While both tests are suitable for use in the clinical and research settings, we would recommend the TUG given the findings of higher test‐retest reliability and as this test requires less space and time to set up and score. Future studies in a larger sample size are warranted to confirm the results of this study. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Überarbeitete Anlagen der Typenprüfungen für Trapezprofile – Erläuterungen und Hintergründe
Authors: Huck Gerhard , Misiek Thomas
Published: December 2014

Als Reaktion auf die bauaufsichtliche Einführung der Eurocodes wurden die Anlageblätter der Typenprüfungen für Trapezprofile in Abstimmung zwischen den Aufstellern und Prüfämtern für Baustatik überarbeitet. Das Nachweiskonzept und die wesentlichen Nachweise blieben dabei trotz der sich daraus ergebenden geringfügigen Abweichungen von DIN EN 1993‐1‐3 gleich. Lediglich bei den Schubfeldnachweisen ergaben sich inhaltliche Änderungen, die auf neuere Entwicklungen im Nachweiskonzept und die unterschiedlichen Wünsche der jeweiligen Antragsteller zurückzuführen sind. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt die überarbeiteten Anlagen vor, begründet die Beibehaltung einzelner Regelungen trotz offenkundiger Abweichungen von DIN EN 1993‐1‐3 und erläutert die neuen und überarbeiteten Regelungen und Nachweise.

Revised Annexes of Typenprüfungen for trapezoidal sheeting – commentary and background information. As a reaction to the implementation of Eurocodes by the building authority, the annexes of the Typenprüfungen (type approval) for trapezoidal sheeting were revised. The concept of verification and the basic proofs stayed the same, resulting in some small deviations from DIN EN 1993‐1‐3.

Proofs for diaphragms and stressed skin design changed, merely resulting from new developments in the concept of verification and different requests of the different applicants. The paper at hand presents the revised annexes, justifies perpetuations for some rules and explains new and revised rules and proofs.
Dünnwandige Freiformstrukturen – The Return of the Rivet
Authors: Laufs Wilfried , Linares Noelia
Published: December 2014

Der Aufsatz beschreibt neuartige dünnwandige Freiform‐Metallkonstruktionen, welche parametrisch entworfen, nach digitaler Fertigung mittels Nieten verbunden und vorgefertigt geliefert montiert sind. Während in den letzten Jahrzehnten die Niete als Metall‐Verbundmittel gegenüber dem Schweißen und Schrauben in den Hintergrund gerückt sind, hat das Nieten bei dünnen Stahl‐ oder Aluminiumplatten den Vorteil, schnelle und kleine Verbindungen kraftschlüssig herzustellen, welche gegenüber Schweißnähten kein Vorwärmen/Schweißverzug hervorrufen. Gegenüber einer Verschraubung sind Niete optisch unauffälliger und können zügig geschossen werden, ohne dass weitere Muttern oder Unterlegscheiben benötigt werden.

Thin‐walled freeform structures – The return of the rivet: Parametrically formulated metal surfaces. The following article describes innovative thin‐walled freeform metal structures, who are parametrically designed, digitally pre‐fabricated pieces and connected using rivets. While in the past decade the rivet has been largely replaced by welding and bolting as a connecting element in metal construction, it proves to be beneficial in the context of thin steel and aluminum plates, where quick, small, and strong connections are made possible, which do not require pre‐heating or cause distortions as often encountered in welding. They are also generally less visible than bolts and can be shot quickly without requiring any further nuts or washers.