bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D printing community and emerging practices of peer production
Authors: Moilanen Jarkko , Vadén Tere
Published: November 2013

Based on the results of a 2012 survey on people doing 3D printing, we present results on the demographics and self-identification of the community, as well as describing participants' printing activity. Combining results from the survey with insights from research literature, we analyse emerging patterns and practices of 3D printing as a subdivision of a more general trend of physical peer production, and, even, of a revolution in manufacturing, as predicted by several theorists.
Top ranking fashion blogs and their role in the current fashion industry
Authors: Sedeke Kristina , Arora Payal
Published: November 2013

Within the last decade, fashion has become more of a global industry catering to complex and transnational customers of diverse lifestyles, religions, and cultures which makes the recognition and identification with particular customers more complex. Simultaneously the radical change in communication allows users to participate, follow and discuss any trends and fashion news easily for any collection and purchase them online. In particular, the blogosphere has become a prime arena within which fashion consumers reside online, bringing to question who and what are the influencers within these new digital and cultural spaces in the fashion industry. Blogging in general is considered as a new form of online journalism, enjoying great attention of users, based on a personal and interactive approach, versus the standardized treatment through mainstream media. Fashion blogs are perceived as a street of fashion, as a source of authenticity and a display of the actual use of fashion by the general public. However, fashion bloggers are looked upon skeptically by the fashion industry as they may not have the proper expertise guaranteeing quality and credible reporting. This new cultural sphere continues to be resisted by established and well-known fashion brands and designers who do not incorporate them into their corporate communication. This is not to say that fashion bloggers are not influential; in fact, these amateur-experts have proven an impressive capacity to build up a wide audience following, and have even influenced mainstream media and the fashion industry. While we are aware of these trends, few studies have shed light on the nature and characteristic of this new cultural and online domain of the fashion industry. Thereby, this paper focuses on some of the most effective blogs and bloggers, delving into who they are, what kinds of strategies do they employ to attract a wide audience and what are the range of characteristics that make an effective blog. The aim of this paper is to enhance the understanding of this new cultural realm, especially in three avenues: identity of bloggers, the culture of space of their blogs, and their actual or possible use as a tool of fashion marketing and brand management.
Empirically Valid Principles for Training in the Real World
Authors: Healy Alice F. , Bourne Lyle E.
Published: November 2013

Four sets of cognitive psychology experiments are aimed to identify and empirically support principles of training intended to increase training effectiveness. Each set supports a different training principle: strategic use of knowledge (learning and memory are facilitated whenever preexisting knowledge can be used as a mediator in the process of acquisition), training difficulty (conditions that cause desirable difficulties during learning might facilitate later retention and transfer), mental practice (mental practice can retard forgetting and promote transfer of training, sometimes to a larger extent than can physical practice), and cognitive antidote (adverse effects of prolonged work on routine tasks can be mitigated by adding cognitive complications). The first 2 principles are focused on knowledge acquisition and the last 2 on skill acquisition. Nevertheless, the principles converge on similar prescriptions: Contrary to intuition and common practice, the trainer is recommended to increase the complexity of the training situation rather than use the simplest methods available.
Relevance of Piagetian Cross-Cultural Psychology to the Humanities and Social Sciences
Authors: Oesterdiekhoff Georg W.
Published: November 2013

Jean Piaget held views according to which there are parallels between ontogeny and the historical development of culture, sciences, and reason. His books are full of remarks and considerations about these parallels, with reference to many logical, physical, social, and moral phenomena. This article explains that Piagetian cross-cultural psychology has delivered the decisive data needed to extend the research interests of Piaget. These data provide a basis for reconstructing not only the history of sciences but also the history of religion, politics, morals, culture, philosophy, and social change and the emergence of industrial society. Thus, it is possible to develop Piagetian theory as a historical anthropology in order to provide a basis for the humanities and social sciences.
Ergonomics and psycho-sociological quality indexes in greenhouses, Almería (Spain)
Authors: Callejón-Ferre A.J. , Pérez-Alonso J. , Sánchez-Hermosilla J. , Carreño-Ortega A.
Published: November 2013

This study investigates the use of the Labour Economics and Sociology Laboratory of France (LEST) method to analyse work posts among greenhouse workers in the Almería region of South-Eastern Spain. The aim is to improve the health of the labourers. Data were gathered from 110 greenhouses, 73 of the Almería parral plano type and 37 raspa and amagado. Crops studied were 63 greenhouses of tomatoes, 31 of watermelons, and 16 of courgette, examining the physical environment, physical load, psycho-social aspects, and time worked by the labourers. The main conclusion was that this type of crop protective structure, typical in South-Eastern Spain, does not guarantee a comfortable working environment, as defined by the norm UNE-EN 13031-1 reference. The results also associate the different types of greenhouses and their crops with the ergonomic and psycho-sociological conditions of the workers. Improvements are proposed.
Improvement of N fertilization by using the nitrification inhibitor DMPP [3,4-dimethylpirazole phosphate] in drip-irrigated citrus trees
Authors: Quiñones A. , Martínez-Alcántara B. , Chi-Bacab U. , Legaz F.
Published: November 2013

Nitrogen management in orchards should tend to improve the fertilizer N use efficiency for a sustainable agriculture where productivity, fruit quality and environment are reconciled. The use of specific nitrification inhibitors could increase the N fertilizer uptake and decrease the potential groundwater pollution by nitrate leaching. The aim of this experiment was to assess the effect of application frequency of the ammonium sulphate (AS) and the nitrification inhibitor (NI), 3,4-dimethylpirazole phosphate (DMPP) supply on: nitrate-N and ammonium-N seasonal changes in soil; N and Fe concentrations in the spring-flush leaves; and yield and fruit quality. The experiment was carried out with clementine cv. Nules (Citrus clementine Hort. Tanaka x Citrus reticulate Blanco) mandarins grafted on Troyer citrange (Citrus sinensis x Poncirus trifoliata) rootstock under field conditions during three consecutive years. The trees were fertilized with 324 Kg N/ha from which 192 Kg N/ha were applied as AS (21% NH4+ -N) either with or without NI, and the remainder N came from irrigation water. The AS and AS+NI were split into 1, 2 or 4 applications per month by drip irrigation. The NH4+ -N concentration in the 0-20 and 20-40 cm soil layers was significantly higher in the AS+NI treatment. By contrast, the NO3- -N concentration was significantly higher in the soil treated only with AS. Moreover, the addition of NI to AS originated a significantly higher N and Fe concentrations in the spring-flush leaves. The yield was higher and some fruit quality parameters improved in trees fertilized with AS+NI compared to those fertilized only with AS.
Evaluation of rapid analysis systems for on-farm nitrate analysis in vegetable cropping
Authors: Thompson R.B. , Gallardo M. , Joya M. , Segovia C. , Martínez-Gaitán C. , Granados M.R.
Published: November 2013

Small analytical systems enabling rapid on-farm analysis may be useful for monitoring crop and soil nutrient status. Two commercially available, rapid analysis systems were evaluated for analysis of (NO3-) in aqueous standard solutions (AS), and in soil solution (SS), plant sap (PS) and fertigation nutrient solutions (NS) obtained from tomato crops. The systems were the Merck RQFlex reflectometer and the Hanna Instruments C115 Grow Master colorimeter. (NO3-) in AS covered the analytical range of each instrument, being 0.3-3.2 and 0.3-16.1 mmol/L, respectively, for the reflectometer and colorimeter. (NO3-) were 5-14 mmol/L for SS, 2.3-33 mmol/L for NS, and 63-158 mmol/L for PS. Accuracy was evaluated using linear regression against (1) known concentration for AS, and (2) laboratory analysis for SS, PS and NS. For the reflectometer with AS, SS and PS, the linear regression had slopes of 1 +/ - 0.08 and intercepts of /= 0.94. The reflectometer was generally accurate for all media examined; it was rapid (1 min per analysis) and simple to use. The colorimeter was generally similarly accurate; however, it was slower, required reagent preparation and was subject to colour interferences. This work demonstrated that the reflectometer can provide rapid and accurate on-farm measurement of (NO3-) in SS, PS and NS.
Response of table grape cultivar ‘Autumn Royal’ to regulated deficit irrigation applied in post-veraison period
Authors: Blanco O. , Faci J. M. , Negueroles J.
Published: November 2013

A field experiment was performed from 2006 through 2008, to evaluate the effect of a postveraison regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) on the yield and quality of the seedless table grape ‘Autumn Royal’, especially on berry cracking. Three irrigation treatments were applied: a control (T1), irrigated at 100% of the net irrigation requirements (NIR), and two RDI treatments (T2 and T3) irrigated as T1 except from postveraison till harvest, when different percentages of NIR were applied, 80 and 60% NIR in T2 and T3, respectively. Irrigation timing was split from one daily application during 2006 and 2007 to two daily applications during 2008 Average yield in T1 was 46.3 and 46.1 t ha–1 in 2006 and 2007, respectively. RDI treatments presented similar yield values to T1, with a water saving in T3 of 94 and 144 mm in 2006 and 2007. However, in 2008 T3 treatment showed a yield reduction with respect to T2 of 13 t ha–1. The maximum yield was achieved in treatment T2 (52.6 t ha–1) and the minimum in treatment T3 (39.3 t ha–1) with a water difference of 54 mm. Berry cracking was greater than 10% in 2006 and 2007 without differences between treatments, while it was negligible in 2008. This result suggests that the change in irrigation timing performed in 2008 could have a beneficial effect in berry cracking since two irrigation applications were performed in that year, one at night and the other one at noon. However the results are not conclusive.
Twenty-five years using reclaimed water to irrigate a golf course in Gran Canaria
Authors: Estevez E. , Cabrera M. C. , Fernandez-Vera J. R. , Hernandez-Moreno J. M. , Mendoza-Grimon V. , Palacios-Diaz M. P.
Published: November 2013

Low focus in water management and short time data availability are the main limiting factors for reclaimed water project analysis. One of the oldest Spanish golf courses with a medium period of available data was selected to study and describe the medium time effects (25 years) on soil and aquifer as a consequence of reclaimed water reuse, and to compare the experimental results with reclaimed water quality criteria under a sustainability point of view. An excess of reclaimed water (83%) is used for this golf course irrigation in spite of the high water price (€ 0.4 m–3). The excess water reduced the risk of substances accumulation in soils, but for several of them the foresaid excess increased the possibility of polluting the aquifer (nitrates). Experimental data confirmed sustainability water quality criteria which predicted phosphorus and boron accumulation in soil. Soil characteristics and water management have to be also considered as critical factors to explain water quality effects in land and environmental conditions.
Mechanism Design and System Control for Humanoid Space Robot Movement Using a Simple Gravity-Compensation System
Authors: Jiang Zhihong , Liu Shilong , Li Hui , Dong Que , Chen Xiaopeng , Huang Qiang
Published: November 2013

Space robots are an effective resource for astronauts working in a dangerous space environment. This paper proposes and implements a system to validate the performance of robot movement in space. A humanoid robot was designed with a vision-based self-calibration and navigation system. In addition, a path planning method was proposed to minimize joint torque. Simple gravity-compensation equipment with active and passive mechanisms was proposed. However, the flexible connection required for free movement between the robot and the gravity-compensation equipment meant that the space robot was likely to vibrate when moving. In order to address this challenge, a new hybrid force-position controller with joint torque feedforward was proposed. This controller was based on the system dynamics model with a particular focus on joint dynamics. Experimental test results validated the system design and methodology, showing that the humanoid space robot could move sufficiently using simple gravity-compensation equipment.
Progranulin, a Major Secreted Protein of Mouse Adipose-Derived Stem Cells, Inhibits Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration
Authors: Tsuruma Kazuhiro , Yamauchi Mika , Sugitani Sou , Otsuka Tomohiro , Ohno Yuta , Nagahara Yuki , Ikegame Yuka , Shimazawa Masamitsu , Yoshimura Shinichi , Iwama Toru , Hara Hideaki
Published: November 2013

Adipose tissue stromal vascular fraction contains mesenchymal stem cells, which show protective effects when administered to damaged tissues, mainly through secreted trophic factors. We examined the protective effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and ASC-conditioned medium (ASC-CM) against retinal damage and identified the neuroprotective factors in ASC-CM. ASCs and mature adipocytes were isolated from mouse subcutaneous tissue. ASCs were injected intravitreally in a mouse model of light-induced retinal damage, and ASC injection recovered retinal function as measured by electroretinogram and inhibited outer nuclear layer, thinning, without engraftment of ASCs. ASC-CM and mature adipocyte-conditioned medium were collected after 72 hours of culture. In vitro, H2O2- and light-induced cell death was reduced in a photoreceptor cell line with ASC-CM but not with mature adipocyte-conditioned medium. In vivo, light-induced photoreceptor damage was evaluated by measurement of outer nuclear layer thickness at 5 days after light exposure and by electroretinogram recording. ASC-CM significantly inhibited photoreceptor degeneration and retinal dysfunction after light exposure. Progranulin was identified as a major secreted protein of ASCs that showed protective effects against retinal damage in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, progranulin phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase, cAMP response element binding protein, and hepatocyte growth factor receptor, and protein kinase C signaling pathways were involved in the protective effects of progranulin. These findings suggest that ASC-CM and progranulin have neuroprotective effects in the light-induced retinal-damage model. Progranulin may be a potential target for the treatment of the degenerative diseases of the retina.
Estimating the propagation characteristics of large‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances using ground‐based and satellite data
Authors: Habarulema John Bosco , Katamzi Zama Thobeka , McKinnell Lee‐Anne
Published: November 2013

In this article, the propagation characteristics of large‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (LS TIDs) are estimated during the geomagnetic storm periods of 14–16 May 2005 and 25–27 September 2011 over South Africa. One and two GPS arrays have been independently considered for the storms of 15 May 2005 and 26 September 2011, respectively. The average periods of dominant modes (≈ 2.5–3.5h) in the time series data were determined by applying wavelet analysis on both ionosonde and GPS data. The consideration of diurnal GPS total electron content (TEC) variability from receivers along three different longitude sectors showed a time shift in TEC enhancement with increasing latitude, the first indication of equatorward motion of the traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs). The statistical method (based on GPS radio interferometry) employed shows that these TIDs were mostly propagating nearly equatorward (for both storm periods), which is consistent with the existing literature about storm‐induced TIDs. On storm days, TID horizontal velocities have been determined in the range of ≈200–500m/s. The analysis of diurnal TEC response from different stations confirmed that the positive storm effect observed on 15 May 2005 was a result of the large‐scale TIDs of wavelength ≈4000 km. On the other hand, the estimated wavelengths of LS TIDs on 26 September 2011 were ≈2400–3400km between 10 and 17 UT. A time lag is observed between the times at which enhancements in TEC, ionosonde foF2, and hmF2 data are revealed, and this has been attributed to the passage of the TID.
Enhanced radial transport and energization of radiation belt electrons due to drift orbit bifurcations
Authors: Ukhorskiy A. Y. , Sitnov M. I. , Millan R. M. , Kress B. T. , Smith D. C.
Published: November 2013

Relativistic electron intensities in Earth's outer radiation belt can vary by multiple orders of magnitude on the time scales ranging from minutes to days. One fundamental process contributing to dynamic variability of radiation belt intensities is the radial transport of relativistic electrons across their drift shells. In this paper we analyze the properties of three‐dimensional radial transport in a global magnetic field model driven by variations in the solar wind dynamic pressure. We use a test particle approach which captures anomalous effects such as drift orbit bifurcations. We show that the bifurcations lead to an order of magnitude increase in radial transport rates and enhance the energization at large equatorial pitch angles. Even at quiet time fluctuations in dynamic pressure, radial transport at large pitch angles exhibits strong deviations from the diffusion approximation. The radial transport rates are much lower at small pitch angle values which results in a better agreement with the diffusion approximation.
On the relation between asymmetries in the ring current and magnetopause current
Authors: Haaland S. , Gjerloev J.
Published: November 2013

Motion of charged particles in the Earth's magnetosphere sets up a system of currents. Current continuity requires that these currents are closed, either locally or via other current systems. In this paper, we have investigated whether magnetopause surface currents can contribute to ring current closure. Using measurements from the Cluster constellation of spacecraft, we calculated thickness and current density of the magnetopause current layer for a large number of flank magnetopause traversals. For each event, we consulted sectorial ring current indices, derived from SuperMAG—a large constellation of ground‐based magnetometer stations. SuperMAG results show a significant and persistent dawn‐dusk asymmetry in ground magnetic perturbations which indicates a more intense ring current on the duskside. The asymmetries become more pronounced during disturbed magnetospheric conditions, indicating an increased divergence of the current and closure through other current systems. A similar response to geomagnetic activity is also observed at the magnetopause. Duskside magnetopause current densities are generally higher than their dawnside counterparts, and also, the magnetopause asymmetry becomes more pronounced during disturbed conditions. Although the two current systems are related to different processes—gradient drift of energetic plasma sheet particles for the ring current and a surface current due to differential motion of ions and electrons inside the magnetopause interface for the magnetopause current—the results demonstrate a mutual relation between the two current systems.
The seismic cycle at subduction thrusts: Insights from seismo‐thermo‐mechanical models
Authors: van Dinther Y. , Gerya T. V. , Dalguer L. A. , Mai P. M. , Morra G. , Giardini D.
Published: November 2013

The underestimation of the size of recent megathrust earthquakes illustrates our limited understanding of their spatiotemporal occurrence and governing physics. To unravel their relation to associated subduction dynamics and long‐term deformation, we developed a 2‐D continuum viscoelastoplastic model that uses an Eulerian‐Lagrangian finite difference framework with similar on‐ and off‐fault physics. We extend the validation of this numerical tool to a realistic subduction zone setting that resembles Southern Chile. The resulting quasi‐periodic pattern of quasi‐characteristic M8–M9 megathrust events compares quantitatively with observed recurrence and earthquake source parameters, albeit at very slow coseismic speeds. Without any data fitting, surface displacements agree with GPS data recorded before and during the 2010 M8.8 Maule earthquake, including the presence of a second‐order flexural bulge. These surface displacements show cycle‐to‐cycle variations of slip deficits, which overall accommodate ∼5% of permanent internal shortening. We find that thermally (and stress) driven creep governs a spontaneous conditionally stable downdip transition zone between temperatures of ∼350°C and ∼450°C. Ruptures initiate above it (and below the forearc Moho), propagate within it, interspersed by small intermittent events, and arrest below it as ductile shearing relaxes stresses. Ruptures typically propagate upward along lithological boundaries and widen as pressures drop. The main thrust is constrained to be weak due to fluid‐induced weakening required to sustain regular subduction and to generate events with natural characteristics (fluid pressures of ∼75–99% of solid pressures). The agreement with a range of seismological, geodetic, and geological observations demonstrates the validity and strength of this physically consistent seismo‐thermo‐mechanical approach.
A mesoscale eddy pair southwest of Taiwan and its influence on deep circulation
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Zhao Wei , Tian Jiwei , Liang Xinfeng
Published: November 2013

A pair of mesoscale eddies, namely, an anticyclonic eddy (AE) and a cyclonic eddy (CE), generated southwest of Taiwan was investigated using long‐term moored observations augmented with satellite and reanalysis data. AE (CE) increased the upper‐ocean current to 100 cm/s (50 cm/s) and generated temperature anomaly (T′) up to 7.5°C (−3.0°C). The vertical structure of AE presented a phase difference between T′ and velocity, with the core of T′ located south of the zero‐velocity line. This phase difference induced a −28.5 ± 12.0 TW (1 TW = 1012 W) westward eddy heat transport southwest of Taiwan. AE also presented strong nonlinearity in the upper ocean and yielded an annual mean volume transport of 0.86 ± 0.15 Sv. Energy analysis showed that both baroclinic and barotropic instabilities were important for the generation and growth of the eddy pair, and contribution from wind work was relative small. In the deep sea, AE (CE) intensified the deep currents and generated large positive (negative) T′. The deep and surface currents flowed in opposite directions during the eddy events, which is consistent with the interpretation that the eddy pair is dominated by the first baroclinic mode. The observed deep‐penetrating eddy pair could greatly influence the deep circulation of the northeastern South China Sea.
Long‐term memory in climate variability: A new look based on fractional integral techniques
Authors: Yuan Naiming , Fu Zuntao , Liu Shida
Published: November 2013

Long‐term memory (LTM) in climate variability is studied by means of fractional integral techniques. We establish a new model, Fractional Integral Statistical Model (FISM), with which one can reproduce LTM of any given time series of climatic variability successfully. By using FISM, we further propose a new variable, Memory Kernel, based on which a clear picture of how the historical states maintain their impacts on the states in far future is drawn quantitatively. We find any climatic variability time series with LTM can be decomposed into two components: the weather‐scale (or more accurately, smaller‐scale) excitation and the cumulative memory component. By analyzing these two components, we reach an interpretation of climate memory in the end of the paper, that is, smaller time scale excitation pushes the present climate regime to begin to change, while slower response subsystems, such as the ocean, usually “remember” the forcing first, and then exhibit the influence slowly on a larger time scale. Since LTM is ubiquitous in climate, our findings in this paper may suggest a new perspective on the research of climate predictability.
Hybride Tensidsysteme mit anorganischen Bestandteilen
Authors: Polarz Sebastian , Landsmann Steve , Klaiber Alexander
Published: November 2013

Tenside sind Moleküle mit großer wissenschaftlicher und technologischer Bedeutung, da sie häufig in Reinigungsmitteln, als Emulgatoren und zur Herstellung diverser Nanostrukturen verwendet werden. Ihre faszinierenden Eigenschaften in Bezug auf selbstorganisierte Strukturen wie Mizellen oder Flüssigkristalle entstammen ihrem amphiphilen Grundgerüst – eine polare Kopfgruppe verknüpft mit einer hydrophoben Kette. Während die meisten der bekannten Tenside rein organisch sind, entwickelt sich gerade eine neue Tensidfamilie, welche den amphiphilen Charakter mit der erweiterten Funktionalität von Übergangsmetallen kombiniert, z. B. Redox‐ oder katalytische Eigenschaften sowie Magnetismus. Diese hybriden Tenside weisen aufgrund der einzigartigen Größe und der elektronischen Eigenschaften der metallhaltigen Teile auch neuartige Merkmale in der Selbstorganisation auf.
Soluble‐eggshell‐membrane‐protein‐modified porous silk fibroin scaffolds with enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation properties
Authors: Sah Mahesh Kumar , Pramanik Krishna
Published: November 2013

In this study, a porous silk fibroin (SF) scaffold was modified with soluble eggshell membrane protein (SEP) with the aim of improving the cell affinity properties of the scaffold for tissue regeneration. The pore size and porosity of the prepared scaffold were in the ranges 200–300 μm and 85–90%, respectively. The existence of SEP on the scaffold surface and the structural and thermal stability were confirmed by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The cell culture study indicated a significant improvement in the cell adhesion and proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the SF scaffold modified with SEP. The cytocompatibility of the SEP‐conjugated SF scaffold was confirmed by a 3‐(4,5‐dimethyltriazol‐2‐y1)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium assay. Thus, this study demonstrated that the biomimic properties of the scaffold could be enhanced by surface modification with SEP. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2014,131, 40138.
The Genus Pluchea: Phytochemistry, Traditional Uses, and Biological Activities
Authors: Hussain Hidayat , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed , Abbas Ghulam , Rehman Najeeb Ur , Mabood Fazal , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Saleem Muhammad , van Ree Teunis , Green Ivan R. , Anwar Saeed , Badshah Amin , Shah Afzal , Ali Iftikhar
Published: November 2013

In this review, literature data on phytochemical and biological investigations on the genus Pluchea are compiled. Pluchea is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family and comprises ca. 80 species distributed mainly in Northern and Southern America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Sesquiterpenoids and flavonoids are the main constituents of this genus. Compounds isolated from plants of the Pluchea genus display a variety of biological properties, viz., anticancer, antileishmanial, immunosuppressive, antioxidant, anti‐acetylcholinesterase, antimicrobial, trypanocidal, hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, larvicidal, anti‐ulcer, anti‐inflammatory, and antinociceptive activities.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil from the Edible Aromatic Plant Aristolochia delavayi
Authors: Li Zhi‐Jian , Njateng Guy S. S. , He Wen‐Jia , Zhang Hong‐Xia , Gu Jian‐Long , Chen Shan‐Na , Du Zhi‐Zhi
Published: November 2013

The essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation from the aerial parts of Aristolochia delavayi Franch. (Aristolochiaceae), a unique edible aromatic plant consumed by the Nakhi (Naxi) people in Yunnan, China, was investigated using GC/MS analysis. In total, 95 components, representing more than 95% of the oil composition, were identified, and the main constituents found were (E)‐dec‐2‐enal (52.0%), (E)‐dodec‐2‐enal (6.8%), dodecanal (3.35%), heptanal (2.88%), and decanal (2.63%). The essential oil showed strong inhibitory activity (96% reduction) of the production of bacterial volatile sulfide compounds (VSC) by Klebsiella pneumoniae, an effect that was comparable with that of the reference compound citral (91% reduction). Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil and the isolated major compound against eight bacterial and six fungal strains were evaluated. The essential oil showed significant antibacterial activity against Providencia stuartii and Escherichia coli, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 3.9 to 62.5 μg/ml. The oil also showed strong inhibitory activity against the fungal strains Trichophyton ajelloi, Trichophyton terrestre, Candida glabrata, Candida guilliermondii, and Cryptococcus neoformans, with MIC values ranging from 3.9 to 31.25 μg/ml, while (E)‐dec‐2‐enal presented a lower antifungal activity than the essential oil.
Chemical Variability of Cleistopholis patens (Benth.) Engl. et Diels Leaf Oil from Ivory Coast
Authors: Ouattara Zana Adama , Boti Jean Brice , Attioua Koffi Barthelemy , Ahibo Antoine Coffy , Casanova Joseph , Tomi Félix , Bighelli Ange
Published: November 2013

The chemical composition of 48 leaf oil samples isolated from individual plants of Cleistopholis patens (Benth.) Engl. et Diels harvested in four Ivoirian forests was investigated by GC‐FID (determination of retention indices), GC/MS, and 13C‐NMR analyses. The main components identified were β‐pinene (traces–59.1%), sabinene (traces–54.2%), (E)‐β‐caryophyllene (0.3–39.3%), linalool (0.1–38.5%), (E)‐β‐ocimene (0.1–33.2%), germacrene D (0.0–33.1%), α‐pinene (0.1–32.3%), and germacrene B (0–21.2%). The 48 oil compositions were submitted to hierarchical clustering and principal components analyses, which allowed the distinction of three groups within the oil samples. The oil composition of the major group (Group I, 33 samples) was dominated by (E)‐β‐caryophyllene and linalool. The oils of Group II (eight samples) contained mainly β‐pinene and α‐pinene, while those of Group III (seven samples) were dominated by sabinene, limonene, and β‐phellandrene. Moreover, the compositions of the Ivoirian C. patens leaf oils differed from those of Nigerian and Cameroonian origins.
Synthesis, Structure, and Reactivity of Lewis Base Stabilized Plumbacyclopentadienylidenes
Authors: Saito Masaichi , Akiba Tomoki , Kaneko Misumi , Kawamura Toshiaki , Abe Minori , Hada Masahiko , Minoura Mao
Published: November 2013

Plumbacyclopentadienylidenes, in which the lead atoms have divalent states and are coordinated by THF, pyridine and N‐heterocyclic carbene, were synthesized and characterized. The THF‐ and pyridine‐stabilized compounds can be regarded as rare examples of hypervalent 10‐X‐4 species. The equilibrium between the THF adduct and the free plumbacyclopentadienylidene was evidenced by spectroscopic analysis and theoretical calculations. The THF adduct in benzene converted into a plumbylene dimer, where one of the lead centers is coordinated by THF and the other lead atom is coordinated by a divalent lead atom, the dimer gradually decomposing into spiroplumbole. The THF adduct unexpectedly reacted with trifluoroborane and trichlorogallane to afford fluoroborole and chlorogallole, which are the first examples of non‐annulated fluoroborole and gallole, respectively.
Development of Rhodesain Inhibitors with a 3‐Bromoisoxazoline Warhead
Authors: Ettari Roberta , Tamborini Lucia , Angelo Ilenia C. , Grasso Silvana , Schirmeister Tanja , Lo Presti Leonardo , De Micheli Carlo , Pinto Andrea , Conti Paola
Published: November 2013

Novel rhodesain inhibitors were obtained by combining an enantiomerically pure 3‐bromoisoxazoline warhead with a specific peptidomimetic recognition moiety. All derivatives behaved as inhibitors of rhodesain, with low micromolar Ki values. Their activity against the enzyme was found to be paralleled by an in vitro antitrypanosomal activity, with IC50 values in the mid‐micromolar range. Notably, a preference for parasitic over human proteases, specifically cathepsins B and L, was observed.
Photosynthetic Antenna–Reaction Center Mimicry by Using Boron Dipyrromethene Sensitizers
Authors: El‐Khouly Mohamed E. , Fukuzumi Shunichi , D'Souza Francis
Published: November 2013

Various molecular and supramolecular systems have been synthesized and characterized recently to mimic the functions of photosynthesis, in which solar energy conversion is achieved. Artificial photosynthesis consists of light‐harvesting and charge‐separation processes together with catalytic units of water oxidation and reduction. Among the organic molecules, derivatives of BF2‐chelated dipyrromethene (BODIPY), “porphyrin’s little sister”, have been widely used in constructing these artificial photosynthetic models due to their unique properties. In these photosynthetic models, BODIPYs act as not only excellent antenna molecules, but also as electron‐donor and ‐acceptor molecules in both the covalently linked molecular and supramolecular systems formed by axial coordination, hydrogen bonding, or crown ether complexation. The relationships between the structures and photochemical reactivities of these novel molecular and supramolecular systems are discussed in relation to the efficiency of charge separation and charge recombination. Femto‐ and nanosecond transient absorption and photoelectrochemical techniques have been employed in these studies to give clear evidence for the occurrence of energy‐ and electron‐transfer reactions and to determine their rates and efficiencies.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Curcumin Derivatives as Potential Chemotherapeutic and Antioxidant Agents
Authors: Ciochina Roxana , Savella Chasity , Cote Brianna , Chang Davis , Rao Deepa
Published: November 2013

Preclinical Research

The purpose of this work was to synthesize a series of symmetrical analogs (CA2–CA7) of curcumin and determine their efficacy as antioxidant and anticancer agents in vitro. The six analogs were successfully synthesized and characterized, one of which, CA6, had not been previously reported in the literature. With the exception of CA2, the analogs had lower predicted aqueous solubilities and higher partition coefficients than curcumin. Two analogs, CA2 and CA3, had lower potencies as anticancer agents compared with curcumin, while CA6 had a slightly higher IC50 value. Two different trends in the antioxidant capabilities of curcumin and its analogs were determined when assessed in vitro or in cell culture. The in vitro DPPH assay clearly showed curcumin as the strongest antioxidant as compared with the analogs when tested at the same concentration or at their IC50 value. The cell culture‐based reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species assay indicated that CA3 and CA6 were equal to curcumin in their free radical scavenging ability at the same concentration, but when curcumin and its analogs were tested at their respective IC50 values, CA4 and CA5 showed excellent antioxidant capacities. These results indicate that in cell culture, the ability of these analogs to produce antioxidant effects may be tied to their downstream effects.
Insights About the Mechanism of the Formation of Supramolecular π‐Stacked Rectangles Based on CuI Bimetallic Complexes Bearing a Bridging Phosphane Ligand
Authors: Nohra Brigitte , Reau Regis , Lescop Christophe
Published: November 2013

The variation in the ratio of the reactants in the supramolecular self‐assembly reaction of the bimetallic CuI “U‐shaped” molecular clip 1 with the 1,4‐dicyanobenzene 3 and the 1,8‐anthracene‐9,10‐carbonitrile 4 “short” ditopic ligand have allowed the observation of new “open” supramolecular assemblies 7 and 8, respectively, in addition to the previously characterized π‐stacked supramolecular rectangles 5 and 6, respectively. These new derivatives have been characterized by their solid‐state structure obtained by X‐ray diffraction on single crystals and by NMR spectroscopy in the case of derivative 7. Depending on the extent of the π system included in the core of the homoditopic linker, different behaviors are observed. In the case of derivative 7 based on the “phenyl” linker 3, a 1:1 1/3 ratio affords the open derivative in a good yield, whereas a 1:0.5 1/4 ratio allows the isolation of derivative 8 in very low yield. These results allow for a tentative analysis of the mechanism that occurs along with the supramolecular self‐assembly processes to afford π‐stacked supramolecular rectangles.
Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Amines on a Mediator‐Modified Electrode by Electrochemical Copolymerization of Nitroxyl Radical Precursor Containing Pyrrole Side Chain and Bithiophene
Authors: Kashiwagi Yoshitomo , Takamori Yumiko , Yoshida Kentaro , Ono Tetsuya
Published: November 2013

This paper describes the electrocatalytic oxidation of amines on TEMPO (2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl)‐modified electrodes prepared by electrochemical copolymerization of TEMPO precursor containing pyrrole side chain and 2,2′‐bithiophene. The modified electrode exhibits electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of primary and secondary amines. Cyclic voltammetric studies showed that the peak current of the cyclic voltammogram increased linearly with increasing concentration of amine in the sample solution.
Effect of heat processing on selected grain amaranth physicochemical properties
Authors: Muyonga John H. , Andabati Brian , Ssepuuya Geoffrey
Published: November 2013

Grain amaranth is a pseudocereal with unique agricultural, nutritional, and functional properties. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of different heat‐processing methods on physicochemical and nutraceutical properties in two main grain amaranth species, of Amaranthus hypochondriacus L. and Amaranthus cruentus L. Grains were prepared by roasting and popping, milled and analyzed for changes in in vitro protein digestibility, gruel viscosity, pasting characteristics, antioxidant activity, flavonoids, and total phenolics. In vitro protein digestibility was determined using the pepsin‐pancreatin enzyme system. Viscosity and pasting characteristics of samples were determined using a Brookfield Viscometer and a Rapid Visco Analyzer, respectively. The grain methanol extracts were analysed for phenolics using spectrophotometry while antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) method. Heat treatment led to a reduction in protein digestibility, the effect being higher in popped than in roasted samples. Viscosities for roasted grain amaranth gruels were significantly higher than those obtained from raw and popped grain amaranth gruels. The results for pasting properties were consistent with the results for viscosity. In both A. hypochondriacus L. and A. cruentus L., the order of the viscosity values was roasted>raw>popped. The viscosities were also generally lower for A. cruentus L. compared to A. hypochondriacus L. Raw samples for both A. hypochondriacus L. and A. cruentus L. did not significantly differ in total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total antioxidant activity values. Thermal processing led to an increase in TFC and antioxidant activity. However, TPC of heat‐processed samples remained unchanged. From the results, it can be concluded that heat treatment enhances antioxidant activity of grain amaranth and causes rheological changes dependent on the nature of heat treatment.
The 104-week efficacy and safety of telbivudine-based optimization strategy in chronic hepatitis B patients: A randomized, controlled study
Authors: Sun Jian , Xie Qing , Tan Deming , Ning Qin , Niu Junqi , Bai Xuefan , Fan Rong , Chen Shijun , Cheng Jun , Yu Yanyan , Wang Hao , Xu Min , Shi Guangfeng , Wan Mobin , Chen Xinyue , Tang Hong , Sheng Jifang , Dou Xiaoguang , Shi Junping , Ren Hong , Wang Maorong , Zhang Hongfei , Gao Zhiliang , Chen Chengwei , Ma Hong , Jia Jidong , Hou Jinlin
Published: November 2013

An optimization strategy based on the Roadmap concept is supposed to improve the clinical outcomes of patients with suboptimal antiviral response. The aim of this study was to prove the concept with a multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled study. In all, 606 hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive, nucleos(t)ide-naive chronic hepatitis B patients were randomized to the Optimize or Mono group. Patients in the Optimize group were treated with telbivudine for 24 weeks, after which those suboptimal responders with HBV DNA ≥300 copies/mL at week 24 received telbivudine plus adefovir until week 104, while the early virological responders continued telbivudine monotherapy. Patients in the Mono group received telbivudine monotherapy. All patients with telbivudine monotherapy had adefovir added if viral breakthrough developed. Sixty-eight percent (204/300) of patients in the Optimize group had adefovir added due to suboptimal response. At week 104, compared to the Mono group, more patients in the Optimize group achieved HBV DNA <300 copies/ml (76.7% versus 61.2%, P < 0.001) with less genotypic resistance (2.7% versus 25.8%, P < 0.001). The rates of HBeAg seroconversion and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalization were comparable between the two groups (23.7% versus 22.1%; 80.7% versus 79.2%). For week 24 suboptimal responders, telbivudine plus adefovir showed an additive antiviral potency, with 71.1% achieving virological response at week 104 and only 0.5% developing genotypic resistance, compared with 46.6% who achieved virological response and 37.8% who developed genotypic resistance with telbivudine monotherapy. Both treatment regimens were well tolerated, with an observed persistent increase of the glomerular filtration rate. Conclusion: For suboptimal virological responders to telbivudine at week 24, adjusting the treatment strategy is recommended. Adding adefovir can benefit these patients with additive antiviral potency and low resistance without increased side effects. (HEPATOLOGY 2014;59:1283-1292)
One‐Pot Synthesis of Sulfonamides and Sulfonyl Azides from Thiols using Chloramine‐T
Authors: Maleki Behrooz , Hemmati Saba , Tayebee Reza , Salemi Sirous , Farokhzad Yasaman , Baghayeri Mehdi , Zonoz Farrokhzad Mohammadi , Akbarzadeh Elahe , Moradi Rohollah , Entezari Azam , Abdi Mohammad Reza , Ashrafi Samaneh Sedigh , Taimazi Fereshteh , Hashemi Majid
Published: November 2013

A convenient synthesis of sulfonamides and sulfonyl azides from thiols is described. In situ preparation of sulfonyl chlorides from thiols was accomplished by oxidation with chloramine‐T (=N‐chlorotosylamide=N‐chloro‐4‐methylbenzenesulfonamide), tetrabutylammonium chloride (Bu4NCl), and H2O. The sulfonyl chlorides were then further allowed to react with excess amine or NaN3 in the same pot.
Lanostane Triterpenes from Ceriporia lacerate HS‐ZJUT‐C13A, a Fungal Endophyte of Huperzia serrata
Authors: Ying You‐Min , Shan Wei‐Guang , Zhang Li‐Wen , Chen Yan , Zhan Zha‐Jun
Published: November 2013

Two new lanostane triterpenes, 3β‐acetoxy‐15α‐hydroxylanosta‐8,24‐dien‐21‐oic acid (1) and 3β‐acetoxylanosta‐7,9(11),24‐trien‐21‐oic acid (2), along with the four known analogs, 3–6, were isolated from the culture broth of Ceriporia lacerate HS‐ZJUT‐C13A, a fungal endophyte residing in the stems of the traditional Chinese herb Huperzia serrata. The structures of the new compounds 1 and 2 were established by spectroscopic methods, including UV, IR, HR‐ESI‐MS, and extensive 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR techniques. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on triterpene metabolites from the genus Ceriporia.
First Synthesis of Ferrocenyl‐Substituted 1,2‐Dihydro‐2‐oxopyridine‐3‐carbonitriles
Authors: Zhang Hong , Li Yang , Gao Wentao
Published: November 2013

In the present investigation, the first incorporation of both ferrocene scaffold and 1,2‐dihydro‐2‐oxopyridine‐3‐carbonitrile pharmacophore leading to a series of structurally novel ferrocene‐based hybrids has been achieved, involving the condensation reaction of ferrocenyl substituted chalcones with 2‐cyanoacetamide in a freshly prepared EtONa solution at 70°. The molecular structures of these newly synthesized products were confirmed by IR, and 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR analyses.
A Novel Organocatalytic Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes
Authors: Zhang Bao‐Hua , Shi Lan‐Xiang , Guo Rui‐Xia
Published: November 2013

α,β‐Unsaturated aldehydes reacted with diimide (diazene) in the presence of optically active ammonium salt 1 as a catalyst to give the corresponding saturated aldehydes in excellent yields and up to 98 : 2 er. Attractive features of the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation are its high yields, and chemo‐, and enantioselectivities.
Studies towards the Synthesis of Alkyl N‐(4‐Nitrophenyl)‐3/2‐oxomorpholine‐2/3‐carboxylates
Authors: Trstenjak Uroš , Ilaš Janez , Kikelj Danijel
Published: November 2013

The syntheses of methyl 4‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐3‐oxomorpholine‐2‐carboxylate (3a) and ethyl 4‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐2‐oxomorpholine‐3‐carboxylate (5b), important building blocks for the synthesis of factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban analogs with potential dual antithrombotic activity, via Rh2(OAc)4‐catalyzed OH and NH carbene insertion reactions are described.
Synthesis of Highly Substituted Hexahelicenes
Authors: Schwertel Manfred , Hillmann Sabine , Meier Herbert
Published: November 2013

C2‐Symmetric hexahelicenes 3a–3g, which bear four or six alkoxy chains, were prepared in eight‐to‐nine reaction steps in high overall yields. The final step consisted of a twofold oxidative photocyclization of the corresponding 2,7‐bis(2‐phenylethenyl)naphthalenes. Long (and branched) chains provide a good solubility and processability, which is a prerequisite for applications in organic synthesis and materials science.
Synthesis of N,N‐Dialkyl‐9‐oxoacridine‐10(9H)‐carbothioamides via the Reaction of (2‐Halophenyl)(2‐isothiocyanatophenyl)methanones with Secondary Amines, Followed by Cyclization with NaH
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Nakagawa Kazuhiro , Yuba Shohei
Published: November 2013

The first preparation of acridin‐9(10H)‐ones carrying a tertiary thiocarbamoyl group at C(10), i.e., N,N‐dialkyl‐9‐oxoacridine‐10(9H)‐carbothioamides 9, is described. The method is based on the reaction of (2‐halophenyl)(2‐isothiocyanatophenyl)methanones 7, prepared from (2‐aminophenyl)(2‐halophenyl)methanones 5 by a convenient three‐step sequence, with secondary amines in DMF at room temperature to generate the corresponding thiourea derivatives 8 in situ, which are treated with NaH at 100–120° to provide the desired products in one‐pot reactions in generally good yields.