bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PAT: From Western solid dosage forms to Chinese materia medica preparations using NIR‐CI
Authors: Zhou Luwei , Xu Manfei , Wu Zhisheng , Shi Xinyuan , Qiao Yanjiang
Published: April 2015

Near‐infrared chemical imaging (NIR‐CI) is an emerging technology that combines traditional near‐infrared spectroscopy with chemical imaging. Therefore, NIR‐CI can extract spectral information from pharmaceutical products and simultaneously visualize the spatial distribution of chemical components. The rapid and non‐destructive features of NIR‐CI make it an attractive process analytical technology (PAT) for identifying and monitoring critical control parameters during the pharmaceutical manufacturing process. This review mainly focuses on the pharmaceutical applications of NIR‐CI in each unit operation during the manufacturing processes, from the Western solid dosage forms to the Chinese materia medica preparations. Finally, future applications of chemical imaging in the pharmaceutical industry are discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collective Synthesis of Natural Products Sharing the Dihydro‐γ‐Ionone Core
Authors: Castillo Alexis , Silva Lucia , Briones David , Quílez del Moral José F. , Barrero Alejandro F.
Published: April 2015

We decided to follow the so‐called “collective total synthesis” approach to synthesize several structurally different molecules from a common intermediate possessing appropriate stereochemistry and functionalities. As the common precursor for the efficient preparation of these bioactive molecules, we chose (+)‐3,4‐dihydro‐γ‐ionone (1), a natural compound present in minor quantities in ambergris and in the plant Bellardia trixago. Thus, we report herein the enantioselective synthesis of siccanochromene F (2), metachromins U (3) and V (4), and bicyclic squalene derivative 5 as well as the formal syntheses of ambrein (6), phenazinomycin (7), and (–)‐siccanin (8).
Precursor Modified Electrodes: Electrochemical Detection of Captopril
Authors: Lee Patricia T. , Compton Richard G.
Published: April 2015

A fast and facile method for captopril determination is reported using an electrode modified to contain the precursor of a species which can selectively and suitably detect the target. Cyclotriveratrylene (CTV) is first incorporated into a carbon paste electrode then the precursor is converted into cyclotricatechylene (CTC) using voltammetric methods at the point in time when the captopril detection is sought. The resulting cyclotricatechylene (CTC) was used to mediate the electrochemical detection of the thiol containing drug, captopril, via electrocatalytic oxidation. Optimization towards the detection method was investigated by changing experimental conditions including pH and mediator loading. Optimal analytical parameters were determined in acidic conditions which gave a real measurable limit of detection of 1 µM for captopril detection.
Interleukin‐1β protects astrocytes against oxidant‐induced injury via an NF‐κB‐Dependent upregulation of glutathione synthesis
Authors: He Yan , Jackman Nicole A. , Thorn Trista L. , Vought Valarie E. , Hewett Sandra J.
Published: April 2015

Astrocytes produce and export the antioxidant glutathione (GSH). Previously, we found that interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) enhanced the expression of astrocyte system xc−, the transporter that delivers the rate‐limiting substrate for GSH synthesis—cyst(e)ine. Herein, we demonstrate directly that IL‐1β mediates a time‐dependent increase in extracellular GSH levels in cortical astrocyte cultures, suggesting both enhanced synthesis and export. This increased GSH production was blocked by inhibition of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activity but not by inhibition of p38 MAPK. To determine whether this increase could provide protection against oxidative stress, the oxidants tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (tBOOH) and ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) were employed. IL‐1β treatment prevented the increase in reactive oxygen species produced in astrocytes following tBOOH exposure. Additionally, the toxicity induced by tBOOH or FeSO4 exposure was significantly attenuated following treatment with IL‐1β, an effect reversed by concomitant exposure to l‐buthionine‐S,R‐sulfoximine (BSO), which prevented the IL‐1β‐mediated rise in GSH production. IL‐1β failed to increase GSH or to provide protection against t‐BOOH toxicity in astrocyte cultures derived from IL‐1R1 null mutant mice. Overall, our data indicate that under certain conditions IL‐1β may be an important stimulus for increasing astrocyte GSH production, and potentially, total antioxidant capacity in brain, via an NF‐κB‐dependent process. GLIA 2015;63:1568–1580
Cell extrinsic alterations in splenic B cell maturation in Flt3‐ligand knockout mice
Authors: Dolence Joseph J. , Gwin Kimberly A. , Shapiro Mariya B. , Hsu Fan‐Chi , Shapiro Virginia S. , Medina Kay L.
Published: April 2015

B lymphopoiesis in bone marrow (BM) is critical for maintaining a diverse peripheral B cell pool to fight infection and establish lifelong immunity. The generation of immature B cells is reduced in Flt3‐ligand (FL‐/‐) mice leading to deficiencies in splenic B cells. Here, we sought to understand the cellular basis of the spleen B cell deficiency in FL‐/‐ mice. Significant reductions in transitional (TS) and follicular (FO) B cells were found in FL‐/‐ mice, and increased frequencies, but not absolute numbers, of marginal zone (MZ) B cells. BAFF‐R expression on splenic B cells and serum levels of B cell activating factor (BAFF) was comparable to wildtype (WT) mice. Mixed BM chimeras revealed that the reductions in TS and FO B cells were cell extrinsic. FL administration into FL‐/‐ mice restored the deficiency in TS B cells and normalized the MZ compartment. Ki67 analysis revealed a significant decrease in the proliferative capacity of TS B cells in FL‐/‐ mice. A Bcl2 transgene did not rescue TS cells in FL‐/‐ mice, uncoupling FL‐deficiency to Bcl2‐dependent survival pathways. Upregulation of CD1d expression and adoptive transfer experiments suggested MZ skewing in FL‐/‐ mice. These findings support an integral role for Flt3 signaling in peripheral B cell maturation.
Technology Gaps and Capacity Issues in African Insurance Companies: Selected Country Evidence
Authors: Barros Carlos Pestana , Wanke Peter
Published: April 2015

This paper describes a variety of approaches used to assess the efficiency of a sample of major insurance companies in Angola and Mozambique between 2003 and 2012. Several data envelopment analysis estimates were generated using bootstrap technique, as this allowed the use of confidence intervals and the correction of a biased perception noted in the core estimates, in order to test the significant differences identified in efficiency levels and the input‐decreasing/output‐increasing potentials in the meta‐frontier analysis in both countries. Findings indicate that there seems to be a scarcity of opportunities to accommodate future demands, pinpointing that the technological gap ratio of the meta‐frontier is negligible. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rotavirus strain surveillance for three years following the introduction of rotavirus vaccine into Belém, Brazil
Authors: Guerra Sylvia F.S. , Linhares Alexandre C. , Mascarenhas Joana D'Arc P. , Oliveira Alessilva , Justino Maria Cleonice A. , Soares Luana S. , Müller Elza Caroline , Brasil Patrícia , Tuboi Suely , Ortega‐Barria Eduardo , Colindres Rómulo
Published: April 2015

The monovalent human rotavirus (RV) vaccine, RIX4414 (Rotarix™, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals) was introduced into Brazil's Expanded Program on Immunization in March 2006. One year after vaccine introduction, the G2P[4] strain was found to be predominant, with an apparent extinction of many non‐G2 strains. This study investigated the diversity of circulating strains in the three years following RIX4414 introduction. Between May 2008 and May 2011, stool samples were collected from children aged ≥12 weeks who were hospitalized for severe lab confirmed RV‐gastroenteritis (≥3 liquid or semi‐liquid motions over a 24‐h period for <14 days, requiring ≥1 overnight hospital stay and intravenous rehydration therapy) in Belém, Brazil. RV‐gastroenteritis was detected by ELISA and the G‐ and P‐types were determined by RT‐PCR assays. During the first year of surveillance nucleotide sequencing was used for typing those samples not previously typed by RT‐PCR. A total of 1,726 of 10,030 severe gastroentertis hospitalizations (17.2%) were due to severe RVGE. G2P[4] was detected in 57.2% of circulating strains over the whole study period, however it predominated during the first 20 months from May 2008 to January 2009. G1P[8] increased in the last part of the study period from May 2010 to May 2011 and represented 36.6% (112/306) of the circulating strains. G2P[4] was the predominant RV strain circulating during the first 20 months of the study, followed by G1P[8]. These findings probably reflect a natural fluctuation in RV strains over time, rather than a vaccine‐induced selective pressure. J. Med. Virol. 87:1303–1310, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The correlation between serum HBsAg levels and viral loads depends upon wild‐type and mutated HBV sequences rather than the HBeAg/anti‐HBe status
Authors: Liu Mo‐Han , Chen Qin‐Yan , Harrison Tim J. , Li Guo‐Jian , Li Hai , Wang Xue‐Yan , Ju Yu , Yang Jin‐Ye , Fang Zhong‐Liao
Published: April 2015

Despite several studies regarding the correlation between serum HBsAg titers and viral loads, the association remains uncertain. Eighty‐nine individuals were selected randomly from a Chinese cohort of 2,258 subjects infected persistently with hepatitis B virus (HBV) for cross‐sectional and longitudinal analysis. Viral loads of mutant HBV are lower than those of wild type HBV. The serum HBsAg titers correlate positively with viral loads in both HBeAg positive and negative subjects (r = 0.449, P = 0.013; r = 0.300, P = 0.018, respectively). No correlation between serum HBsAg titer and viral loads was found in any of the four phases of chronic HBV infection. The serum HBsAg titers correlate positively with viral loads in the group with wild type sequences of the PreS/S, basal core promoter (BCP), and preC regions of HBV(r = 0.502, P = 0.040). However, the correlation was not seen in the group with mutations in these regions (r = 0.165, P = 0.257). The correlation between HBsAg titers and viral loads was seen in individuals with wild type PreS/S sequences but not in the subgroup with BCP double mutations or PreC stop mutation, although their sequences in the preS/S regions were wild type. All these findings were confirmed by the longitudinal analysis. In conclusion, the correlation between serum HBsAg levels and viral loads may not differ between HBeAg positive and negative individuals but may depend on wild‐type or mutated genomic sequences. Therefore, HBsAg quantitation may be used as a surrogate for viral loads in only wild‐type HBV infections. J. Med. Virol. 87:1351–1360, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Medical Virology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Raman and infrared spectroscopic characterization of the arsenate‐bearing mineral tangdanite– and in comparison with the discredited mineral clinotyrolite
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Scholz Ricardo , López Andrés
Published: April 2015

The minerals clinotyrolite and fuxiaotuite are discredited in terms of the mineral tangdanite. The mixed anion mineral tangdanite Ca2Cu9(AsO4)4(SO4)0.5(OH)9 9H2O has been studied using a combination of Raman and infrared spectroscopy. Characteristic bands associated with arsenate, sulphate and hydroxyl units are identified. Broad bands in the OH stretching region are observed and are resolved into component bands. These bands are assigned to water and hydroxyl stretching vibrations. Two intense Raman bands at 837 and approximately 734 cm−1 are assigned to the ν1 (AsO4)3− symmetric stretching and ν3 (AsO4)3− antisymmetric stretching modes. Infrared bands at 1023 cm−1 are assigned to the (SO4)2− ν1 symmetric stretching mode, and infrared bands at 1052, 1110 and 1132 cm−1 assigned to (SO4)2− ν3 antisymmetric stretching modes, confirming the presence of the sulphate anion in the tangdanite structure. Raman bands at 593 and 628 cm−1 are attributed to the (SO4)2− ν4 bending modes. Low‐intensity Raman bands found at 457 and 472 cm−1 are assigned to the (AsO4)3− ν2 bending modes. A comparison is made with the previously obtained spectral data on the discredited mineral clinotyrolite. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oscillatory head movements in cervical dystonia: Dystonia, tremor, or both?
Authors: Shaikh Aasef G. , Zee David S. , Jinnah H. A.
Published: April 2015

Cervical dystonia is characterized by abnormal posturing of the head, often combined with tremor‐like oscillatory head movements. The nature and source of these oscillatory head movements is controversial, so they were quantified to delineate their characteristics and develop a hypothetical model for their genesis. A magnetic search coil system was used to measure head movements in 14 subjects with cervical dystonia. Two distinct types of oscillatory head movements were detected for most subjects, even when they were not clinically evident. One type had a relatively large amplitude and jerky irregular pattern, and the other had smaller amplitude with a more regular and sinusoidal pattern. The kinematic properties of these two types of oscillatory head movements were distinct, although both were often combined in the same subject. Both had features suggestive of a defect in a central neural integrator. The combination of different types of oscillatory head movements in cervical dystonia helps to clarify some of the current debates regarding whether they should be considered as manifestations of dystonia or tremor and provides novel insights into their potential pathogenesis. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
On the application of the method of difference potentials to linear elastic fracture mechanics
Authors: Woodward W. H. , Utyuzhnikov S. , Massin P.
Published: April 2015

The Difference Potential Method (DPM) proved to be a very efficient tool for solving boundary value problems (BVPs) in the case of complex geometries. It allows BVPs to be reduced to a boundary equation without the knowledge of Green's functions. The method has been successfully used for solving very different problems related to the solution of partial differential equations. However, it has mostly been considered in regular (Lipschitz) domains. In the current paper, for the first time, the method has been applied to a problem of linear elastic fracture mechanics. This problem requires solving BVPs in domains containing cracks. For the first time, DPM technology has been combined with the finite element method. Singular enrichment functions, such as those used within the extended finite element formulations, are introduced into the system in order to improve the approximation of the crack tip singularity. Near‐optimal convergence rates are achieved with the application of these enrichment functions. For the DPM, the reduction of the BVP to a boundary equation is based on generalised surface projections. The projection is fully determined by the clear trace. In the current paper, for the first time, the minimal clear trace for such problems has been numerically realised for a domain with a cut. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Engaging consumers in esthetic offerings: conceptualizing and developing a measure for arts engagement
Authors: Kemp Elyria
Published: April 2015

As the arts face a number of challenges, including changing audience tastes and inconsistent ticket purchasing behavior, there have been calls for innovative approaches to marketing. Experts in the field have suggested that “engaging experiences” in the arts be cultivated to aid in audience development efforts. However, in the literature, little attention has been devoted to defining what encompasses an “engaging experience” in the arts. This research addresses this gap by exploring the concept of “engagement in the arts” and developing a measurement tool, which accesses overall “arts engagement.” It applies emerging theories from the customer engagement and brand experience literatures to conceptualize “arts engagement.” In four studies, an arts engagement scale is tested for its validity, reliability, and its relationship with important outcomes in the consumption experience. Implications are discussed for marketing the arts as well as other consumption contexts that incorporate performance and artistic‐based elements, including service delivery and experiential marketing.

Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Soluble factors regulated by epithelial–mesenchymal transition mediate tumour angiogenesis and myeloid cell recruitment
Authors: Suarez‐Carmona Meggy , Bourcy Morgane , Lesage Julien , Leroi Natacha , Syne Laïdya , Blacher Silvia , Hubert Pascale , Erpicum Charlotte , Foidart Jean‐Michel , Delvenne Philippe , Birembaut Philippe , Noël Agnès , Polette Myriam , Gilles Christine
Published: April 2015

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) programmes provide cancer cells with invasive and survival capacities that might favour metastatic dissemination. Whilst signalling cascades triggering EMT have been extensively studied, the impact of EMT on the crosstalk between tumour cells and the tumour microenvironment remains elusive. We aimed to identify EMT‐regulated soluble factors that facilitate the recruitment of host cells in the tumour. Our findings indicate that EMT phenotypes relate to the induction of a panel of secreted mediators, namely IL‐8, IL‐6, sICAM‐1, PAI‐1 and GM‐CSF, and implicate the EMT‐transcription factor Snail as a regulator of this process. We further show that EMT‐derived soluble factors are pro‐angiogenic in vivo (in the mouse ear sponge assay), ex vivo (in the rat aortic ring assay) and in vitro (in a chemotaxis assay). Additionally, conditioned medium from EMT‐positive cells stimulates the recruitment of myeloid cells. In a bank of 40 triple‐negative breast cancers, tumours presenting features of EMT were significantly more angiogenic and infiltrated by a higher quantity of myeloid cells compared to tumours with little or no EMT. Taken together, our results show that EMT programmes trigger the expression of soluble mediators in cancer cells that stimulate angiogenesis and recruit myeloid cells in vivo, which might in turn favour cancer spread. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activation of Caspase‐9/3 and Inhibition of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition are Critically Involved in Antitumor Effect of Phytol in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Kim Chul‐Woo , Lee Hyun Joo , Jung Ji Hoon , Kim Yoon Hyeon , Jung Deok‐Beom , Sohn Eun Jung , Lee Jang Hoon , Woo Hong Jung , Baek Nam‐In , Kim Young Chul , Kim Sung‐Hoon
Published: April 2015

This study was designed to investigate the antitumor mechanism of Phytol in hepatocellular carcinomas including Huh7 and HepG2 cells in association with caspase dependent apoptosis and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) signaling. Phytol significantly suppressed the viability of Huh7 and HepG2 cells. Also, Phytol significantly increased the sub G1 population and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells in a concentration dependent manner in Huh7 and HepG2 cells. Consistently, Phytol cleaved poly (adenosine diphosphate‐ribose) polymerase (PARP), activated caspase‐9/3, and Bax attenuated the expression of survival genes such as Bcl‐2, Mcl‐1, and c‐Myc in Huh7 and HepG2 cells. Of note, Phytol also suppressed typical morphology change of EMT such as loss of cell adhesion and formation of fibroblast like mesenchymal cells in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, Phytol also reversed the loss of E‐cadherin and overexpression of p‐smad2/3, alpha‐smooth muscle actin, and Snail induced by EMT promoter transforming growth factor beta1 in HepG2 cells. Overall, our findings suggest that Phytol exerts antitumor activity via apoptosis induction through activation of caspas‐9/3 and inhibition of EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma cells as a potent anticancer candidate for liver cancer treatment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Whom are you promoting? Positive voluntary public disclosures and executive turnover
Authors: Stern Ithai , James Sharon D.
Published: April 2015

Research summary: This paper uses signaling theory to bring together two complementary research streams that have largely ignored each other: strategic human resource management and media relations management. We argue that when publicly traded firms voluntarily and publicly disclose positive information about their value creation and appropriation activities, they also send positive signals to managerial labor markets regarding executives' capabilities. Accordingly, we hypothesize a positive association between public disclosures and voluntary executive turnover. An analysis of pharmaceutical and communications equipment firms from 1990 to 2004 supports this prediction, underscoring the need to understand better the effects of voluntary public disclosures on a firm's ability to protect its human capital. More generally, our results highlight the importance of considering the impact of a single signal on multiple receivers.

Managerial summary: Given the organizational benefits of positive media coverage, the considerable effort that firms put into managing their image in the media is not surprising. We argue and show, however, that when a firm enhances its public image it also improves its executives' positions in the managerial labor market and, by so doing, increases their likelihood of voluntarily leaving the firm. In particular, we find that corporate press releases, an important mechanism for managing information released in the public domain to signal a firm's competitive advantages, may result in unintentional loss of senior management talent. This trade‐off suggests that firms should increase coordination between their strategy, human resources, and corporate communications/investor relations departments to ensure that they collectively weigh the benefits and costs of publicly disclosing value‐relevant information. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Market frictions and the competitive advantage of internal labor markets
Authors: Belenzon Sharon , Tsolmon Ulya
Published: April 2015

Research summary: We show that frictions in labor and capital markets can be a source of competitive advantage for affiliates of corporate groups over stand‐alone firms in environments where benefits from internal markets' flexibility are high. We argue that the advantage of flexibility in changing labor inputs is related to how difficult it is to change capital inputs. We predict that if substituting labor with capital is difficult, the group advantage of flexibly changing labor would be stronger in countries with high levels of financial development. Consistent with this prediction, we find a stronger competitive advantage for group affiliates in countries with rigid labor markets but flexible capital markets. In these environments, group affiliates are more prevalent and outperform stand‐alone firms in terms of growth and profitability.

Managerial summary: This research shows that the capacity to redeploy workers across internal units of the firm can be a source of competitive advantage in countries that impose strict employment protection laws. We show that the strategic advantage of labor flexibility is affected by how difficult it is to change capital inputs and that labor flexibility is a stronger source of competitive advantage in countries where developed financial markets allow for more flexible capital adjustment. In these settings, strategies designed to lower costs of internal mobility (e.g., locations of greater geographic concentration between units and in regions with less competitive external markets), development of corporate culture supportive of frequent change, and personnel development through internal rotation can result in substantial financial payoffs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Be ready to lead campus discussions about the credit hour, alternatives
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2015

The traditional model of higher education calls for students to enroll after high school and graduate in four years. But that's no longer the norm at most colleges and universities. If a large percentage of your students are working adults or attend part‐time, you know they are seeking options for the times and formats for their courses.
Green Luminescence of Divalent Europium in the Hydride Chloride EuHCl
Authors: Kunkel Nathalie , Rudolph Daniel , Meijerink Andries , Rommel Stefan , Weihrich Richard , Kohlmann Holger , Schleid Thomas
Published: April 2015

Luminescence properties of divalent europium in the mixed‐anion hydride chloride EuHCl were studied for the first time. Olive‐green single crystals of EuHCl (PbFCl‐type structure: tetragonal, P4/nmm, a = 406.58(3) pm, c = 693.12(5) pm, c/a = 1.705, Z = 2) resulted from the reaction of elemental europium (Eu), sodium hydride (NaH) and sodium chloride (NaCl), while powder samples were prepared from the binary components europium dihydride (EuH2) and dichloride (EuCl2). Low temperature X‐ray powder diffraction proved the absence of phase transitions for 12(2) K ≤ T ≤ 295(2) K. Bright green emission was observed under UV‐excitation and assigned to the 4f65d1–4f7 transition of divalent europium. Temperature‐dependent luminescence absorption and emission, as well as lifetime measurements were carried out on single crystal and powder samples. Surprisingly, only limited concentration quenching was found. Additionally, two emission bands (485 and 510 nm) are observed, whose intensity ratio depends strongly on temperature. In order to explain this behavior for a single Eu2+ site, we suggest either a dynamical Jahn–Teller effect in the excited 5d1 state or emission from both a 4f65d1 state and a trapped exciton state.
Tolerance Factor and Cation–Anion Orbital Interactions Differentiating the Polar and Antiferrodistortive Structures of Perovskite Oxides ABO3
Authors: Whangbo Myung‐Hwan , Gordon Elijah E. , Bettis Jerry L. , Bussmann‐Holder Annette , Köhler Jürgen
Published: April 2015

We explored under what conditions perovskite oxides ABO3 adopt a polar or an antiferrodistortive structure from the viewpoint of the tolerance factor τ and the orbital interactions of the empty orbitals of the A and B cations with the filled orbitals of their surrounding O2– ions. Polar structures require the presence of a substantial size‐mismatch as well as strong cation‐anion orbital interactions at A or B cation sites. A tetragonal polar structure is preferred when the A cation empty orbitals are extended or when the B‐cation empty orbitals are contracted. A trigonal polar structure is favored in opposite cases. An antiferrodistortive structure is found for perovskites with weak size‐mismatch or those with substantial size‐mismatch if both A and B cations do not generate strong cation‐anion orbital interactions. Antiferrodistortive structures result from interactions involving the A cations with the O4 squares of the face‐sharing AO8 square‐prisms in a two‐in‐two‐out manner, and are found only when the A/O cation‐anion interactions are substantial.
Changes in soil and vegetation with stabilization of dunes in a desert–oasis ecotone
Authors: Wang Guohua , Zhao Wenzhi , Liu Hu , Zhang Gefei , Li Fang
Published: April 2015

Revegetation of indigenous plants in a desert–oasis ecotone is an effective way of maintaining the stability of oases. Understanding the changes in vegetation and soil is crucial for restoration management. The properties of soil and vegetation at stabilized sites of different ages were investigated in a typical desert–oasis ecotone, located in the Hexi Corridor region in arid northwestern China, over a period of 40 years. The results indicated that after 40 years the organic matter, total‐N and available‐P at 0–2 cm soil depth increased from 0.1, 0.1 g kg−1, 7 mg kg−1 to 2.0, 0.9 g kg−1, and 75 mg kg−1, respectively. At 2–5 cm the organic matter, total‐N and available‐P increased from 0.4, 0.1 g kg−1, and 7 mg kg−1 to 2.3, 0.4 g kg−1, and 38 mg kg−1, respectively. The number of herbaceous species increased from 4 to 9 and the herbaceous cover increased from 6 to 28 % after 40 years. The height and cover of the sand‐binding vegetation Haloxylon ammodendron (H. ammodendron) reached the highest levels of 446 cm and 68 % after 25 years. After 35 years H. ammodendron dwindled and its belowground and aboveground biomass both decreased significantly. With effective natural regeneration, after 40 years the population of H. ammodendron remained stable and its cover and density remained at 38 % and 1870 ha−1 respectively. The positive mutual feedback between vegetation and soil permitted the sand‐binding vegetation community to become stable over time.
Buffered l‐ascorbic acid, alone or bound to KMUP‐1 or sildenafil, reduces vascular endothelium growth factor and restores endothelium nitric oxide synthase in hypoxic pulmonary artery
Authors: Wu Jiunn‐Ren , Kao Li‐Pin , Wu Bin‐Nan , Dai Zen‐Kong , Wang Yi‐Ya , Chai Chee‐Yin , Chen Ing‐Jun
Published: April 2015

Ascorbic acid bound to KMUP‐1 and sildenafil were examined for their antioxidant effects on vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) and endothelium nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in hypoxic pulmonary artery (PA). Inhaled KMUP‐1 and oral sildenafil released NO from eNOS. The effect of buffered l‐ascorbic acid, alone and bound to KMUP‐1 or sildenafil, for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is unclear. In this study, the antioxidant capacity of ascorbic acid increased the beneficial effects of KMUP‐1 on PAH. KMUP‐1A and sildenafil‐A (5 mg/kg/d) were administered to hypoxic PAH rats. Pulmonary artery blood pressure, and VEGF, Rho kinase II (ROCK II), eNOS, soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC‐α), and protein kinase G expression in lung tissues were measured to link PAH and right ventricular hypertrophy. Hypoxic rats had higher pulmonary artery blood pressure, greater PA medial wall thickness and cardiac weight, and a higher right ventricle/left ventricle + septum [RV/(LV+S)] ratio than normoxic rats. Oral KMUP‐1A or sildenafil‐A for 21 days in hypoxia prevented the rarefaction of eNOS in immunohistochemistry (IHC), reduced the IHC of VEGF in PAs, restored eNOS/protein kinase G/phosphodiesterase 5A; unaffected sGC‐α and inactivated ROCK II expression were also found in lung tissues. In normoxic PA, KMUP‐1A/Y27632 (10μM) increased eNOS and reduced ROCK II. ROCK II/reactive oxidative species was increased and eNOS was reduced after long‐term hypoxia for 21 days. KMUP‐1A or Y27632 blunted ROCK II in short‐term hypoxic PA at 24 hours. l‐Ascorbic acid + l‐sodium ascorbate (40, 80μM) buffer alone directly inhibited the IHC of VEGF in hypoxic PA. Finally, KMUP‐1A or sildenafil‐A reduced PAH and associated right ventricular hypertrophy.
Doing things with numbers: The Danish National Audit Office and the governing of university teaching
Authors: Triantafillou Peter
Published: April 2015

Like the Supreme Audit Institutions of many other OECD countries, the Danish National Audit Office has stepped up its performance auditing of public administrations and agencies in order to ensure that they provide value for money. But how do performance audits contribute to making state institutions change their conduct? Based on the case of the Danish National Audit Office's auditing of the quality of teaching at Danish universities, this paper seeks to show, first, that the quantification and, by the same token, simplification of the practices subjected to performance auditing are key to understand how SAIs render complex activities amenable to assessment. Secondly, the paper seeks to show how the quantification of the quality of university teaching contributed to make academic staff and universities, groups that have a large room of professional autonomy, viewing, assessing and, ultimately, govern their teaching activities differently.
A lake-level chronology based on feldspar luminescence dating of beach ridges at Tangra Yum Co (Southern Tibet)
Authors: Rades Eike F. , Tsukamoto Sumiko , Frechen Manfred , Xu Qiang , Ding Lin
Published: April 2015

Many lakes on the Tibetan Plateau exhibit strandplains with a series of beach ridges extending high above the current lake levels. These beach ridges mark former lake highstands and therefore dating their formation allows the reconstruction of lake-level histories and environmental changes. In this study, we establish a lake-level chronology of Tangra Yum Co (fifth largest lake on the Tibetan Plateau) based on luminescence dating of feldspar from 17 beach-ridge samples. The samples were collected from two strandplains southeast and north of the lake and range in elevation from the current shore to 140 m above the present lake. Using a modified post-infrared IRSL protocol at 170°C we successfully minimised the anomalous fading in the feldspar IRSL signal, and obtained reliable dating results. The luminescence ages indicate three different stages of lake-level decline during the Holocene: (1) a phase of rapid decline (~ 50 m) from ~ 6.4 to ~ 4.5 ka, (2) a period of slow decline between ~ 4.5 and ~ 2.0 ka (~ 20 m), and (3) a fast decline by 70 m between ~ 2 ka and today. Our findings suggest a link between a decrease in monsoonal activity and lake-level decline since the early Holocene.
When Economics Met Antitrust: The Second Chicago School and the Economization of Antitrust Law
Authors: BOUGETTE PATRICE , DESCHAMPS MARC , MARTY FRÉDÉRIC
Published: April 2015

In this article, the authors interrogate legal and economic history to analyze the process by which the Chicago School of Antitrust emerged in the 1950s and became dominant in the United States. They show that the extent to which economic objectives and theoretical views shaped the inception of antitrust law. After establishing the minor influence of economics in the promulgation of U.S. competition law, they highlight U.S. economists’ caution toward antitrust until the Second New Deal and analyze the process by which the Chicago School developed a general and coherent framework for competition policy. They rely mainly on the seminal and programmatic work of Director and Levi (1956) and trace how this theoretical paradigm became collective—that is, the “economization” process in U.S. antitrust. Finally, the authors discuss the implications and possible pitfalls of such a conversion to economics-led antitrust enforcement.
An Analysis of Wine Critic Consensus: A Study of Washington and California Wines
Authors: Stuen Eric T. , Miller Jon R. , Stone Robert W.
Published: April 2015

We examine the degree of consensus in quality ratings of prominent U.S. wine publications. For the purposes of wine consumption and research, are ratings on the ubiquitous 100-point scale reliable measures of quality? The value of expert judgment has been called into question by a number of studies, especially in the context of wine competitions and tasting events. Using data on 853 wines, we find a moderately high level of consensus, measured by the correlation coefficient, between most pairs of publications, similar to the level found by Ashton (2013). Rank and intraclass correlations are similar. Consensus is not found to be related to the blinding policies (or lack thereof) of the critical publications. (JEL Classifications: C93, D46)
Concentrate reduction and sequential roughage offer to dairy cows: effects on milk protein yield, protein efficiency and milk quality
Authors: Leiber Florian , Dorn Katharina , Probst Johanna K. , Isensee Anne , Ackermann Nick , Kuhn Anton , Spengler Neff Anet
Published: April 2015

An experiment was conducted during 6 weeks to evaluate effects of a reduced dietary level of protein-rich concentrates in a moderate dairy production system on cows’ performance, protein efficiency and milk quality including fatty acid profiles. Twenty-three lactating cows (Swiss Fleckvieh) were assigned either to a group receiving on average 2·4 kg/d individually fed concentrates (Prot+, n = 12) or to a group receiving no individually fed concentrates (Prot−, n = 11). All cows had ad-libitum access to a total mixed ration (TMR) mainly based on grass and maize silage, hay and little potatoes and soybean cake. In weeks 4–6 of the experiment, part of the hay was excluded from the TMR, and fed separately in the morning. Individual feed intake and milk yield were recorded during weeks 3 and 6 of the experiment; at the same time feed, faeces and milk samples were collected twice per week for analyses. Data were processed in linear mixed models. Omission of individual concentrates in Prot− was fully compensated by higher roughage intake in terms of dry matter. Crude protein (CP) and net energy intake was almost maintained. Despite a lower apparent CP digestibility in Prot−, the ratio of milk protein to ingested CP was the same in both groups, indicating a higher ruminal utilisation of degraded CP in Prot−. This corresponded with lower milk urea concentrations in Prot−. Milk quality was affected in terms of lower concentrations of linoleic and conjugated linoleic acid in milk fat of Prot−. Concentrations of odd- and branched-chain fatty acids in milk were increased in Prot−. Sequential offer of hay and TMR did not lead to considerable effects in intake, efficiency and milk quality. In conclusion, the results indicate that the efficiency of feed protein utilisation for milk protein is not impaired if concentrates are reduced in a moderate- to low-input dairy production system.
Design and management of a powder diffraction beamline for Line Profile Analysis: a realistic ray-tracing approach
Authors: Rebuffi Luca , Scardi Paolo , del Rio Manuel Sanchez
Published: April 2015

Most synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (XRD) beamlines have been primarily designed for studying conventional materials, whereas a modern approach to nanomaterials requires a complete control of the diffracted signal, and therefore of the optics and general setup of the beamline. This requirement is especially relevant when Line Profile Analysis is pushed to the limits of large domain sizes, small deformations, or low defects concentration, which is a driving force to use synchrotron radiation XRD. We combine the SHADOW ray-tracing optical simulation with the calculation of powder diffraction profile from standard materials, into a high-level workflow environment based on the ORANGE software. Algorithms are developed to reproduce optical elements in a realistic form, so to evaluate the effects of aberrations, with the final purpose of reconstructing the Instrumental Profile Function of the beamline, with the possibility of investigating the role of each separate element. The results of this work can be of interest to most beamlines as a powerful tool for the design of setups of existing as well as new beamlines.
GigaRad – a multi-purpose high-resolution ground-based radar – system concept, error correction strategies and performance verification
Authors: Jirousek Matthias , Iff Sebastian , Anger Simon , Peichl Markus
Published: April 2015

Recently DLR has developed and constructed a new experimental radar instrument [5] for various applications such as radar signature collection, synthetic aperture radar/inverse synthetic aperture radarimaging, motion detection, tracking, etc., where high performance and high flexibility have been the key drivers for system design. Consequently the multi-purpose and multi-channel radar called GigaRad is operated in X and Ku band and allows an overall bandwidth of up to 6 GHz, resulting in a theoretical range resolution of up to 2.5 cm. Hence, primary obligation is a detailed analysis of various possible error sources, being of no or less relevance for low-resolution systems. A high degree of digital technology enables advanced signal processing and error correction to be applied. The paper outlines main technical features of the radar system, the basic error correction and absolute calibration strategy, frequency limitations, and illustrates some imaging results.
Target modeling and deduction of automotive radar resolution requirements for pedestrian classification
Authors: Schubert Eugen , Kunert Martin , Meinl Frank , Menzel Wolfgang
Published: April 2015

Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Systems (PCMS) are already in the market for some years. Due to continuously evolving EuroNCAP regulations their presence will increase. Visual sensors, already capable of pedestrian classification, provide functional benefits, because the reaction behavior can be optimized when the imminent collision object is recognized as pedestrian or cyclist. Nevertheless their performance will suffer under adverse environmental conditions like darkness, fog, rain or backlight. Even in such unfavorable situations the performance of radar sensors is not significantly deteriorated. Enabling classification capability to automotive radar will further improve road safety and will lower PCMS's overall costs. In this paper, a multi-reflection-point pedestrian target model based on motion analysis is presented. Together with an appropriate sensor model, pedestrian radar signal responses can be provided for a wide range of accident scenarios. Additionally velocity separation requirements that are needed for classification of pedestrians are derived from the simulations. Besides determination of classification features, the model discloses the limits of classical radar signal processing and further offers the opportunity to evaluate parametric spectral analysis. Based on simulated and measured baseband radar signals of pedestrians one of these techniques is deeper analyzed and its enhancement especially on the velocity separation capability is evaluated.
When Predicting Drought Risk, Do Not Overlook Temperature
Authors: Kollipara Puneet
Published: April 2015

Through analysis of 2014's record dryness in California, a study suggests that a risk of similar droughts depends not just on precipitation but also on temperature.
Bosco Receives 2014 Basu Early Career Award in Sun-Earth Systems Science
Authors:   AGU
Published: April 2015

John Bosco has been awarded the Sunanda and Santimay Basu Early Career Award in Sun-Earth Systems Science. He presented a talk and was formally presented with the award at the 2014 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, held 15–19 December in San Francisco, Calif.
GSK-3β-dependent downregulation of γ-taxilin and αNAC merge to regulate ER stress responses
Authors: Hotokezaka Y , Katayama I , van Leyen K , Nakamura T
Published: April 2015

The signaling pathway leading to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress responses has not been fully elucidated. Here we showed that glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β)-dependent downregulation of γ-taxilin and nascent polypeptide-associated complex α-subunit (αNAC) mediates hypoxia-induced unfolded protein responses (UPRs) and the subsequent apoptotic and autophagic pathways. The degradation of γ-taxilin or αNAC was sufficient to initiate UPRs in normoxic cells. However, the ER stress signaling pathways initiated by γ-taxilin or αNAC were distinct, triggering different ER stress sensors and activating different downstream pathways. Hypoxia caused GSK-3β-dependent tau hyperphosphorylation and cleavage in neuronal cells, but γ-taxilin ablation induced tau hyperphosphorylation alone and αNAC ablation induced neither changes. Notably, downregulation of γ-taxilin and αNAC occurs in the brain of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. These results suggest that GSK-3β-dependent downregulation of γ-taxilin and αNAC, which differently activate the UPRs, merge to regulate hypoxia-induced ER stress responses and provide a new insight into the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.
Enhanced functional connectivity and increased gray matter volume of insula related to action video game playing
Authors: Gong Diankun , He Hui , Liu Dongbo , Ma Weiyi , Dong Li , Luo Cheng , Yao Dezhong
Published: April 2015

Research has shown that distinct insular subregions are associated with particular neural networks (e.g., attentional and sensorimotor networks). Based on the evidence that playing action video games (AVGs) facilitates attentional and sensorimotor functions, this study examined the relation between AVG experience and the plasticity of insular subregions and the functional networks therein that are related to attentional and sensorimotor functions. By comparing AVG experts and amateurs, we found that AVG experts had enhanced functional connectivity and grey matter volume in insular subregions. Furthermore, AVG experts exhibited increased functional connectivity between the attentional and sensorimotor networks and the experience-related enhancement was predominantly evident in the left insula, an understudied brain area. Thus, AVG playing may enhance functional integration of insular subregions and the pertinent networks therein.
Fast and safe microwave-assisted glass channel-shaped microstructure fabrication
Authors: Zacheo A. , Zizzari A. , Perrone E. , Carbone L. , Giancane G. , Valli L. , Rinaldi R. , Arima V.
Published: April 2015

Microwave-assisted wet etching intensifies the glass etching action under safe working and finely monitored operative conditions and it produces smooth deep channels in short processing times with reduced underetching effects.
A new potential biomarker for 1-testosterone misuse in human urine by liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Yang , Lu Jianghai , Yang Sheng , Xu Youxuan , Wang Xiaobing
Published: April 2015

In this study, 1-testosterone urinary metabolic profiles were investigated by liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) using full scan and targeted MS/MS techniques with accurate mass measurement.
A flow cytometer-based whole cell screening toolbox for directed hydrolase evolution through fluorescent hydrogels
Authors: Lülsdorf Nina , Pitzler Christian , Biggel Michael , Martinez Ronny , Vojcic Ljubica , Schwaneberg Ulrich
Published: April 2015

A high-throughput whole cell flow cytometer screening toolbox for hydrolases was validated by identification of improved esterase, lipase and cellulase variants.
A short pyrene-fused pyrazaacene with red to near-infrared photoluminescence
Authors: García Raúl , Melle-Franco Manuel , Mateo-Alonso Aurelio
Published: April 2015

A pyrene-fused pyrazaacene with only four linearly-fused aromatic rings is reported, which remarkably shows emission at red to NIR wavelengths (λem = 687 nm).
A novel approach to the synthesis of bulk and supported β-Mo2C using dimethyl ether as a carbon source
Authors: Zhao Yu , Yao Zhiwei , Shi Yan , Qiao Xue , Wang Guanzhang , Wang Haiyan , Yin Jingzhou , Peng Feng
Published: April 2015

A pre-heating (PH) reduction route is more effective than a rapid heating (RH) reduction route for carbide synthesis.
Gold-catalyzed cascade C–H/C–H cross-coupling/cyclization/alkynylation: an efficient access to 3-alkynylpyrroles
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Ma Yuanhong , Lan Jingbo , Song Feijie , You Jingsong
Published: April 2015

An efficient approach to 3-alkynylpyrroles has been developed through the gold-catalyzed cascade oxidative C–H/C–H cross-coupling, cyclization and in situ oxidative alkynylation.
Controlled surface mineralization of metal oxides on nanofibers
Authors: Horzum Nesrin , Mari Margherita , Wagner Manfred , Fortunato Giuseppino , Popa Ana-Maria , Demir Mustafa M. , Landfester Katharina , Crespy Daniel , Muñoz-Espí Rafael
Published: April 2015

Metal oxide/polymer hybrid nanofibers are prepared by in situ formation of metal oxide nanoparticles on surface-functionalized polymer fibers.
In situ polydopamine-assisted deposition of silver nanoparticles on a two dimensional support as an inexpensive and highly efficient SERS substrate
Authors: Wang Peilan , Zhou Yanling , Wen Ying , Wang Feng , Yang Haifeng
Published: April 2015

Versatile substrates were modified with polydopamine followed by in situ AgNP deposition to fabricate a cheap, flexible and disposable SERS substrate.