bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Hypervalent Iodine Reagents Enable Chemoselective Deboronative/Decarboxylative Alkenylation by Photoredox Catalysis.
Authors: Huang Hanchu , Jia Kunfang , Chen Yiyun
Published: June 2015

A photoinduced chemoselective C(sp3)—C(sp2) coupling reaction through a deboronation of trifluoroborates and decarboxylation of α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acids is developed using a hypervalent benziodoxolone as reagent.
ChemInform Abstract: Direct Preparation of New Organozinc Reagents, Aminophenylzinc Iodides, and Their Applications.
Authors: Jung Hye‐Soo , Kim Seung‐Hoi
Published: June 2015

Aminophenylzinc iodides are generated easily by direct zinc insertion of active zinc into iodoarenes.
ChemInform Abstract: A Rh‐Catalyzed 1,2‐Sulfur Migration/Aza‐Diels—Alder Cascade Initiated by Aza‐Vinyl Carbenoids from Sulfur‐Tethered N‐Sulfonyl‐1,2,3‐triazoles.
Authors: Jiang Yu , Tang Xiang‐Ying , Shi Min
Published: June 2015

The title reaction of derivatives (I) affords sulfur‐containing tetrahydropyridines (II) in good to high yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Ligand‐Promoted Reactivity of Alkenes in Dehydrogenative Heck Reactions of Furans and Thiophenes.
Authors: Vasseur Alexandre , Laugel Caroline , Harakat Dominique , Muzart Jacques , Le Bras Jean
Published: June 2015

4,5‐Diazafluorenone is found to be an effective ligand for the dehydrogenative Heck reaction of cinnamic acid derivatives or stilbenes with thiophenes and furanes.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Conjugate Additions of α‐Amino Radicals via Cooperative Photoredox and Lewis Acid Catalysis.
Authors: Ruiz Espelt Laura , McPherson Iain S. , Wiensch Eric M. , Yoon Tehshik P.
Published: June 2015

The first highly enantioselective intermolecular addition of photogenerated α‐amino radicals to Michael acceptors is reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective Aerobic Benzylic Alcohol Oxidation of Lignin Model Compounds: Route to Aryl Ketones.
Authors: Dawange Monali , Galkin Maxim V. , Samec Joseph S. M.
Published: June 2015

A key factor for a successful aerobic oxidation process is the addition of catalytic amounts of glucose to inhibit deactivation of the Pd‐C catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: Metal‐Free, Room‐Temperature, Radical Alkoxycarbonylation of Aryldiazonium Salts Through Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis.
Authors: Guo Wei , Lu Liang‐Qiu , Wang Yue , Wang Ya‐Ni , Chen Jia‐Rong , Xiao Wen‐Jing
Published: June 2015

This is the first visible‐light‐induced (blue LED) radical alkoxycarboxylation of aryldiazonium salts using carbon monoxide gas.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient and Practical Synthesis of Enantioenriched 2,3‐Dihydropyrroles Through Gold‐Catalyzed anti‐Markovnikov Hydroamination of Chiral Homopropargyl Sulfonamides.
Authors: Yu Yong‐Fei , Shu Chao , Zhou Bo , Li Jian‐Qiao , Zhou Jin‐Mei , Ye Long‐Wu
Published: June 2015

The presented cycloisomerization proceeds through an anti‐Markovnikov addition by using a base in catalytic amount.
ChemInform Abstract: Microwave‐Promoted Tin‐Free Iminyl Radical Cyclization with TEMPO Trapping: A Practical Synthesis of 2‐Acylpyrroles.
Authors: Cai Yu , Jalan Ankur , Kubosumi Aaron R. , Castle Steven L.
Published: June 2015

The mild protocol does not require toxic or hazardous reagents and tolerates a variety of functional groups including acid and base labile ones.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Formation of All‐Carbon Quaternary Stereocenters from Indoles and Tertiary Alcohols Bearing a Directing Group.
Authors: Zhao Wanxiang , Wang Zhaobin , Chu Boyang , Sun Jianwei
Published: June 2015

The reactions overcome the unfavorable steric hindrance around reactive centers, and the competitive elimination, to form a range of useful indole products with excellent efficiency and enantioselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Benzothieno[2,3‐b]indole Formation via Dehydrative—Dehydrogenative Double C—H Sulfuration Using Sulfur Powder, Indoles and Cyclohexanones.
Authors: Liao Yunfeng , Peng Yi , Qi Hongrui , Deng Guo‐Jun , Gong Hang , Li Chao‐Jun
Published: June 2015

The reaction can be readily scaled up.
ChemInform Abstract: Multigram Synthesis of Fluoroalkyl‐Substituted Pyrazole‐4‐carboxylic Acids.
Authors: Tverdokhlebov Anton V. , et al.
Published: June 2015

An optimal approach is elaborated for the syntheses of starting enones (III) (no yields given).
ChemInform Abstract: Access to Newly Functionalized Imidazole Derivatives: Efficient Synthesis of Novel 5‐Amino‐2‐thioimidazoles Using Propylphosphonic Anhydride (®T3P).
Authors: Lasalle Manuel , Picon Sylvain , Boulahjar Rajaa , Hoguet Vanessa , Van Obbergen Jolien , Roussel Pascal , Deprez Benoit , Charton Julie
Published: June 2015

Various N‐acetamidoisothioureas undergo microwave assisted T3P‐mediated cyclodehydration to give imidazole derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Imidazoles via Cascade Reaction of Nitroallylic Acetates with Amidines and Studies on Their Trypanocidal Activity.
Authors: Kumar Tarun , Verma Deepti , Menna‐Barreto Rubem F. S. , Valenca Wagner O. , da Silva Eufranio N. Jr. , Namboothiri Irishi N. N.
Published: June 2015

Compound (IIId) shows better and compounds (IIIe) and (IIIf) show similar activity against Trypanosoma cruzi compared with the reference benznidazole.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of [(1,2,3‐Triazol‐1‐yl)methyl]boronic Acids Through Click Chemistry: Easy Access to a Potential Scaffold for Protease Inhibitors.
Authors: Romagnoli Chiara , Caselli Emilia , Prati Fabio
Published: June 2015

Stereoselective synthesis of previously unreported (triazolyl)methylboronic acids is achieved from azidomethylboronates by copper‐catalyzed azide—alkyne cycloaddition reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Generation of α‐CF3 Enolate: Direct Catalytic Asymmetric Mannich‐Type Reaction of α‐CF3 Amide.
Authors: Yin Liang , Brewitz Lennart , Kumagai Naoya , Shibasaki Masakatsu
Published: June 2015

The scalable Mannich‐type reaction transforms both aromatic and aliphatic N‐Boc imines into β‐amino acids possessing α‐CF3 stereogenicity.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Synthesis of 1,3‐Disubstituted 1,3‐Dihydro‐2H‐imidazo[5,1‐b]quinazolin‐9‐ones by and Intramolecular Mannich‐Type Reaction.
Authors: Leclercq Julien , Driowya Moshine , Flouquet Nathalie , Berthelot Pascal , Lebeque Nicolas
Published: June 2015

The intramolecular Mannich‐type reaction of quinazoline derivatives with aldehydes provides diastereomeric mixtures of imidazoquinazoline‐9‐ones.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Isoxazolidine‐Fused Eight‐Membered Heterocycles via an Intramolecular Nitrone—Alkene Cycloaddition.
Authors: Zhu Tong , Xiang Jinbao , Liu Zhenyu , Dang Qun , Bai Xu
Published: June 2015

Novel tricyclic eight‐membered‐ring scaffolds fused by both isoxazolidine and pyrimidine rings are synthesized by an intramolecular nitrone‐alkene cycloaddition.
ChemInform Abstract: Silicon‐Tethered Strategy for Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Stereo‐ and Regioselective Alkylboration of Alkynes.
Authors: Kubota Koji , Iwamoto Hiroaki , Yamamoto Eiji , Ito Hajime
Published: June 2015

The title reaction gives cyclic alkenylboronates in excellent yields with high regioselectivities and complete syn selectivities.
ChemInform Abstract: Flavokawains B and C, Melanogenesis Inhibitors, Isolated from the Root of Piper methysticum and Synthesis of Analogues.
Authors: Jeong Hye‐Jin , Lee Chang Seok , Choi Janggyoo , Hong Yong Deog , Shin Song Seok , Park Jun Seong , Lee John Hwan , Lee Seokyong , Yoon Kee Dong , Ko Jaeyoung
Published: June 2015

Flavokawains B and C (Ia,b) are isolated from the ethanolic extract of the root of Piper methysticum, which is found to inhibit melanogenesis in MSH‐activated B16 melanoma cells.
ChemInform Abstract: Amphidinin G, a Putative Biosynthetic Precursor of Amphidinin A from Marine Dinoflagellate Amphidinium sp.
Authors: Kubota Takaaki , Iwai Takahiro , Ishiyama Haruaki , Sakai Kanae , Gonoi Tohru , Kobayashi Jun'ichi
Published: June 2015

The title compound (I) shows antifungal activity against trichophyton mentagrophytes.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereocontrolled 1,2‐cis Glycosylation as the Driving Force of Progress in Synthetic Carbohydrate Chemistry
Authors: Nigudkar Swati S. , Demchenko Alexei V.
Published: June 2015

Review: [137 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Partially Hydrogenated 1,3,5‐Thiadiazines by Mannich Reaction
Authors: Dotsenko Victor V. , Frolov Konstantin A. , Krivokolysko Sergey G.
Published: June 2015

Review: [151 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Propargyl Radical Chemistry: Renaissance Instigated by Metal Coordination
Authors: Melikyan Gagik G.
Published: June 2015

Review: 31 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Aqueous‐Phase Catalytic Oxidation, Transfer Hydrogenation, Reductive Amination and Hydration Reactions
Authors: Nait Ajjou Abdelaziz
Published: June 2015

Review: 72 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Iminosugars as Immunomodulating Agents: Synthesis and Biological Activities of 1‐Deoxynojirimycin and Related Compounds
Authors: Li Qin , Ye Xin‐Shan
Published: June 2015

Review: 45 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Transfer Hydrogenation in Aqueous Media
Authors: Wei Yawen , Wu Xiaofeng , Wang Chao , Xiao Jianliang
Published: June 2015

Review: 57 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Reactions of Fused Pyrrole‐2,3‐diones with Dinucleophiles
Authors: Konovalova Valeriya V. , Shklyaev Yurii V. , Maslivets Andrey N.
Published: June 2015

Review: 74 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Technical Implications of Organic Syntheses in Ball Mills
Authors: Stolle Achim
Published: June 2015

Review: 114 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Biophysical and Electrochemical Studies of Protein—Nucleic Acid Interactions
Authors: Bowater Richard P. Bowater Richard P. , Cobb Andrew M. , Pivonkova Hana , Havran Ludek , Fojta Miroslav
Published: June 2015

Review: 135 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Design of Electrocatalysts for Oxygen‐ and Hydrogen‐Involving Energy Conversion Reactions
Authors: Jiao Yan , Zheng Yao , Jaroniec Mietek , Qiao Shi Zhang
Published: June 2015

Review: 311 refs.
Synthesis of Tribolure, the Common Aggregation Pheromone of Four Tribolium Flour Beetles
Authors: Wang Chao , He Chengyu , Shi Yong , Xiang Hua , Tian Weisheng
Published: June 2015

Herein we report a synthesis of the natural tribolure, an aggregation pheromone which consists of (4R,8S)‐, (4R,8R)‐, (4S,8S)‐, and (4S,8R)‐4,8‐dimethyldecanals in a ratio of 4/4/1/1, from (R)‐4‐methyl‐δ‐valerolactone, a byproduct of the degradation of steroidal sapogenins. Merging the stereoisomers of the same ratios into one synthetic target and using the same chiron for the construction of the C4 stereocenters are notable features of this synthesis.
Environmental impacts of mechanization in Brazil's sugar and ethanol industry: The cutting, loading, and transportation process case
Authors: Scheidl Herbert A. , Simon Alexandre Tadeu , Pacagnella Junior Antônio Carlos , Salgado Júnior Alexandre Pereira
Published: June 2015

This work aims to analyze environmental impacts caused by mechanization in the sugar and ethanol sector in Brazil. To achieve this goal, a case study was performed in a production unit of the country's largest producer. It was found that mechanization of cutting, loading, and transportation processes for sugarcane brings immediate benefits in terms of productivity and the elimination of activities, which are potentially dangerous to workers (manual cutting). More importantly, although the mechanization elevates diesel consumption, it eliminates burning crops of sugarcane, which overall significantly reduces the emission of greenhouse gases. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1748–1755, 2015
Comparative study on the free radical scavenging mechanism exerted by geraniol and geranylacetone using the combined experimental and theoretical approach
Authors: Stobiecka Agnieszka
Published: June 2015

In the current study the free radical scavenging mechanism of geraniol and geranylacetone has been investigated experimentally and theoretically. Two fragrant acyclic terpenoids were subjected to the ABTS and DPPH assay. Furthermore, the detailed quantum chemical calculations have been undertaken in order to evaluate the possible pathways underlying the radical scavenging activity of selected compounds in the non‐polar and polar media. The density functional theory (DFT) using the hybrid Becke three‐parameter exchange‐correlation functional (B3LYP) was applied. In general both investigated compounds possessed very weak anti‐radical activity at the applied experimental conditions but geranylacetone was significantly more effective as a ABTS•+ and DPPH• scavenger than geraniol. The comparison of DFT‐predicted reaction enthalpies associated with the hydrogen atom transfer mechanism (HAT), the single electron and proton transfer process (SET‐PT) and the sequential proton loss electron‐transfer (SPLET), revealed that the former mechanism should be favoured in geraniol solvated in both the non‐polar and polar media. On the contrary, an anti‐radical activity of geranylacetone in the non‐polar solvent was ascribed to the hydrogen donation mechanism while in the polar solvent it was assigned to the SPLET. According to the computational results the presence of allylic H‐atom (at the position 1C) close to the –OH group seemed to be essential for the observed anti‐radical activity of geraniol. The scavenging ability of geranylacetone was associated with the presence of both allylic and alkylic hydrogens in the close vicinity of the carbonyl functionality. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Benefits of Equicorrelation for Portfolio Allocation
Authors: Clements Adam , Scott Ayesha , Silvennoinen Annastiina
Published: June 2015

The importance of modelling correlation has long been recognised in the field of portfolio management, with large‐dimensional multivariate problems increasingly becoming the focus of research. This paper provides a straightforward and commonsense approach toward investigating a number of models used to generate forecasts of the correlation matrix for large‐dimensional problems. We find evidence in favour of assuming equicorrelation across various portfolio sizes, particularly during times of crisis. During periods of market calm, however, the suitability of the constant conditional correlation model cannot be discounted, especially for large portfolios. A portfolio allocation problem is used to compare forecasting methods. The global minimum variance portfolio and Model Confidence Set are used to compare methods, while portfolio weight stability and relative economic value are also considered. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interprofessional sepsis education module: a pilot study
Authors: Chung Han-Oh , Medina Damien , Fox-Robichaud Alison
Published: June 2015

Although there is an increasing emphasis on interprofessional collaboration for safer health care systems, there remains a paucity of opportunities for postgraduate trainees to engage in formal interprofessional education (IPE). Current opportunities for interprofessional learning, such as simulation sessions, typically do not provide true IPE because they often utilize actors or confederates as support staff, making residents the only stakeholders in the education experience.

Here, we describe a flexible educational module designed to provide genuine IPE for physicians, nurses, and respiratory therapists. We outline how simulation, feedback, and group discussions can be used to teach interprofessional team communication, collaboration, and crew resource management skills—while, at the same time, also teaching a highly relevant medical topic (sepsis management) and thus resulting in learner engagement and motivation.
Theorizing Hybridity and Identity: The “Edge-Effect” and “Dynamic Nucleus” inBharatanatyam-Inspired Contemporary Dances of Two Choreographers
Authors: LaFrance Cheryl
Published: June 2015

Dancer-choreographer Nova Bhattacharya uses the ecological term “edge-effect” to describe her experience within the choreographic process where herbharatanatyamtraining and her contemporary dance creativity overlap to create alingua franca. Hari Krishnan, dancer-choreographer and scholar, describes his work as “constantly ruptured” within his “post-post-modern experience.” This paper argues that the creative processes underlying the respective contemporary dance-making practices of Nova Bhattacharya and Hari Krishnan are cultural ecosystems demonstrating the rich dynamic of the edge-effect at the intersection ofbharatanatyamand contemporary dance aesthetics and themes. Within the edge-effect, both reception and rupture occur as artistic identities evolve. Furthermore, reception and rupture occur within the performance venue as the performers' and audiences' worlds overlap—another negotiated edge-effect. While the ecological metaphor of the edge-effect helps to conceptualize these interactive spaces, the sociological metaphor of a “dynamic nucleus” (Lloyd Wong) helps us to theorize the nature and energy of the critically reflective exchanges occurring, between contemporary andbharatanatyamsensibilities, in both the studio and concert theater. The edge-effect and dynamic nucleus metaphors build on Homi Bhaha's concept of the “cultural interstices” within which individual and communal identities are initiated and culture is located. Additionally, these metaphors expand on Guillermo Gômez-Peña's theory of “multihybrid identities, in a constant process of metamorphosis” as today's “border-culture” becomes tomorrow's institutional art. This paper provides dance scholars with a way of conceptualizing the energy of dance as a cultural force influencing experiences of hybridity and identity for performers and audiences within intercultural contexts.
Artistic Dialogue and Artistic Exchange through Movement
Authors: Jeffery Brian
Published: June 2015

This article will narrate the process of working in artistic collaboration utilizing traditional Ghanaian dance forms and Western dance-making methods while incorporating a common artistic thread between the two cultures. Invited to create a new work of choreography for the Ghana Dance Ensemble (GDE), the author as guest artist choreographer explored ways of creating a hybrid dance work that honored the artistic footprint of GDE. The choreographer engaged company members, consisting of both dancers and musicians, in daily rehearsals and dialogue about the artistic process and the aesthetic roots from which each artist was grounded. Compositional structures were explored cross-culturally. Traveling out to several field sites, the choreographer was able to view and participate in sacred ceremony for more grounding and artistic information. From this process, a dialogic space was created in which new meanings were shared between cultures and traditional artistic values re-imagined. Dialogue through conversation was not the only exchange of importance. An additional dialogue was that of dancing bodies viewing each other, adapting and integrating change firmly grounded in each other's originating aesthetic footprint. Equally important was the exchange in a culture where it is inherent that the music sounds the dance and the dance moves the music. Thus the dialogue extended itself where the choreographer tried on new ways of thinking about the sounding body just as GDE integrated the choreographer's approaches and made it their own through their own processes of creative invention.
The Political and Religious Tensions of Fijian Dance in Canada: Renegotiating Identity Through Affect
Authors: Kelly Evadne
Published: June 2015

Recent performances ofmeke, a “traditional” Fijian song-dance genre, in Canada indicate a renegotiation of identity among Fijians in diasporic communities. However, due to religious and political anxieties involving Fiji's colonial history, not all Fijians in Canada will participate inmeke. To explore this, I draw from archival research and fieldwork conducted in Western Canada and Viti Levu, Fiji (2011–2012). Additionally, I take inspiration from the anthropological theory of affect, whereby the body has the ability to be affected (to feel/sense) and to affect others (causing others to feel/sense). I argue that experiences and expressions of powerful feeling states in and surroundingmekeperformance are important in terms of renegotiating Fiji's past colonial and present post-independence realities while negotiating new connections and relations in multicultural Canada.
In Need of Meta-Governance: Business Networks of Transnational Governance
Authors: Thauer Christian R
Published: June 2015

This article discusses empirical research in political science on the topics of business and human rights, and transnational governance networks. It argues that transnational governance networks confront norm clashes and power conflicts, which undermine their effectiveness and legitimacy. Transnational governance as a concept and approach to ordering is therefore in need of meta-governance, by which the article understands secondary rules and procedures – that is, institutional mechanisms that allow for the mitigation and resolution of these conflicts. However, the extent to which such meta-governance currently exists, its effectiveness, and the rules and procedures that may legitimately define meta-governance and its actors are still unknown. This article calls for a research agenda to investigate these unknowns, which combines normative-legal and empirical-political science perspectives on the nature, form, legitimacy and effects of meta-governance.
Humanitarian Intervention and the Clean Hands Doctrine in International Law
Authors: Pomson Ori , Horowitz Yonatan
Published: June 2015

A serious issue that has confronted the international community is the legality of humanitarian intervention. Although the majority of scholars reject the existence of a doctrine of humanitarian intervention, could the attacked state invoke the responsibility of an intervening state before an international tribunal? This article attempts to answer this question in light of the often misunderstood clean hands doctrine in international law. It first concludes that under thelex lata, humanitarian intervention is prohibited under international law. This raises the question whether the clean hands doctrine may nevertheless preclude a court or tribunal from adjudicating in favour of a state that has been subject to humanitarian intervention. Although the clean hands doctrine exists under international law in various manifestations, its applicability in cases concerning humanitarian intervention is lacking. The article finally considers whether thejus cogensstatus of the prohibition of the use of force would prevent the applicability of the clean hands doctrine to humanitarian intervention cases were the clean hands doctrine to evolve into a customary international legal norm.
Association between the emotional status of family caregivers and length of stay in a palliative care unit: A retrospective study
Authors: Kim Seon Hee , Hwang In Cheol , Ko Ki Dong , Kwon Young Eun , Ahn Hong Yup , Cho Nan Young , Kim Seung Jin
Published: June 2015

Objective:

Several factors associated with referral time to hospice and/or palliative care services have been identified, but there is no literature on the association between these services and the emotional status of the family caregivers (FCs). This article is intended to address that issue.

Method:

A semistructured interview was employed to collect data for a retrospective cohort study. The primary FCs of terminally ill cancer patients were interviewed at the time of the patient's referral to the palliative care unit. Interview data were combined with patients' medical record data for our analysis. The emotional status of the FCs was categorized into one of three groups according to their responses to the anticipated death of their family member: acceptance, anxious/depressed, and denial/angry. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to examine and identify the factors related to the length of stay (LOS) in the palliative care unit.

Results:

A total of 198 patient–FC pairs were identified. The median LOS was 18 days. A multivariate analysis with adjustment for potential variables revealed significant differences in LOS according to cancer type and time since cancer diagnosis. The denial/angry FC category was independently associated with a shorter LOS (vs. acceptance, adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.11; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.11–4.03).

Significance of Results:

We found that terminally ill cancer patients who were referred late had FCs who were in denial or were angry about the anticipated death of their loved one. The emotional status of FCs should be considered when patients with terminal cancer are referred to palliative care.
Cross-species amplification and characterization of new microsatellite markers for the macaw palm,Acrocomia aculeata(Arecaceae)
Authors: Gebretensay Mengistu Fekadu , Yoshimitsu Motoike Sérgio , Teixeira Caixeta Eveline , Damião Cruz Cosme , Naomi Kuki Kacilda
Published: June 2015

Microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs) are useful molecular markers allowing for efficient conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources of plant species. Development of SSR marker system for new species is a very expensive task and time consuming. Cross-species amplification of microsatellite loci is considered as a cost-effective approach for developing microsatellite markers for new species. The aim of this work was to examine the transferability of some SSR markers of twoArecaceaespecies (Astrocaryum aculeatumandElaeis oleifera), inAcrocomia aculeata. Out of the total markers analysed 44% of the markers successfully amplified the genomic DNA inA. aculeata, of which 26% were polymorphic detecting a range of three to eight alleles with an average of 4.5 per locus. High average percentage of polymorphic loci (P= 71.2%) per provenance was obtained within a range of 57–100% detecting genetic variation inA. aculeatagermplasm collections. The polymorphic markers detected a positive inbreeding coefficient (F>0) per locus revealing heterozygote deficiency in the accessions that were analysed. As the cross-amplification was at family level, in which the taxonomic distance is relatively wider between the sources (A. aculeatumandE. oleifera) and the target (A. aculeata) species, the amplification success was relatively low. However, the results are promising and implicated that high cross-amplification success could be achieved at species or genus level inA. aculeata. The markers will contribute towards the domestication of the potential macaw palm through realizing various studies such as population genetics, germplasm characterization, genetic improvement and conservation.
Convergence behaviour and Control in Non-Linear Biological Networks
Authors: Karl Stefan , Dandekar Thomas
Published: June 2015

Control of genetic regulatory networks is challenging to define and quantify. Previous control centrality metrics, which aim to capture the ability of individual nodes to control the system, have been found to suffer from plausibility and applicability problems. Here we present a new approach to control centrality based on network convergence behaviour, implemented as an extension of our genetic regulatory network simulation framework Jimena ( http://stefan-karl.de/jimena). We distinguish three types of network control and show how these mathematical concepts correspond to experimentally verified node functions and signalling pathways in immunity and cell differentiation: Total control centrality quantifies the impact of node mutations and identifies potential pharmacological targets such as genes involved in oncogenesis (e.g. zinc finger protein GLI2 or bone morphogenetic proteins in chondrocytes). Dynamic control centrality describes relaying functions as observed in signalling cascades (e.g. src kinase or Jak/Stat pathways). Value control centrality measures the direct influence of the value of the node on the network (e.g. Indian hedgehog as an essential regulator of proliferation in chondrocytes). Surveying random scale-free networks and biological networks, we find that control of the network resides in few high degree driver nodes and networks can be controlled best if they are sparsely connected.
The HRDC domain of E. coli RecQ helicase controls single-stranded DNA translocation and double-stranded DNA unwinding rates without affecting mechanoenzymatic coupling
Authors: Harami Gábor M. , Nagy Nikolett T. , Martina Máté , Neuman Keir C. , Kovács Mihály
Published: June 2015

DNA-restructuring activities of RecQ-family helicases play key roles in genome maintenance. These activities, driven by two tandem RecA-like core domains, are thought to be controlled by accessory DNA-binding elements including the helicase-and-RnaseD-C-terminal (HRDC) domain. The HRDC domain of human Bloom’s syndrome (BLM) helicase was shown to interact with the RecA core, raising the possibility that it may affect the coupling between ATP hydrolysis, translocation along single-stranded (ss)DNA and/or unwinding of double-stranded (ds)DNA. Here, we determined how these activities are affected by the abolition of the ssDNA interaction of the HRDC domain or the deletion of the entire domain in E. coli RecQ helicase. Our data show that the HRDC domain suppresses the rate of DNA-activated ATPase activity in parallel with those of ssDNA translocation and dsDNA unwinding, regardless of the ssDNA binding capability of this domain. The HRDC domain does not affect either the processivity of ssDNA translocation or the tight coupling between the ATPase, translocation and unwinding activities. Thus, the mechanochemical coupling of E. coli RecQ appears to be independent of HRDC-ssDNA and HRDC-RecA core interactions, which may play roles in more specialized functions of the enzyme.
Effect of adenosine and adenosine receptor antagonist on Müller cell potassium channel in Rat chronic ocular hypertension models
Authors: Yang Zijian , Huang Ping , Liu Xiaohong , Huang Shouyue , Deng Lianfu , Jin Zhe , Xu Shuo , Shen Xi , Luo Xunda , Zhong Yisheng
Published: June 2015

Müller cells are principal glial cells in rat retina and have attracted much attention in glaucoma studies. However, it is not clear whether adenosine and adenosine receptor (AR) antagonists play any roles in the regulation of potassium channels in Müller cells and subsequently in the promotion of glutamine synthetase (GS) and L-Glutamate/L-Aspartate Transporter (GLAST) functions. We found that chronic ocular hypertension (COH) in rat down-regulated Müller cells Kir2.1, Kir4.1, TASK-1, GS and GLAST expressions and attenuated the peak of inward potassium current. Retinal ganglion cells (RGC) count was lower in the COH rats than that in the sham operation animals. Intravitreal injection of selective A2A AR antagonist SCH442416 up-regulated Müller cell Kir4.1, TASK-1, GS and GLAST expressions and enhanced inward potassium currents compared with those in the COH rats with vehicle control. Meanwhile, the RGC count was higher following intravitreal injection of SCH442416 in the COH rats than that after vehicle injection. The fact that PKA inhibitor H-89 blocked these SCH442416 effects suggested that the PKA signaling pathway was involved in the observed ocular responses following the intravitreal SCH442416 injection.
Comparing usage between dynamic and static e-reference collections
Authors: Lamothe Alain R
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this article was to present the results of a quantitative analysis that compared usage levels between an e-reference collection that has experienced continual updated content and growth and an e-reference collection that has not experienced any recent changes. The aim of the study was to determine quantitatively if e-reference collections with dynamic content experience greater levels of usage compared to e-reference collections that are static in both size and content.

Design/methodology/approach

– E-reference data were separated into a dynamic collection and a static collection. Usage for e-reference belonging to the dynamic collection was compared to usage of e-reference belonging to the static collection. The number of e-reference was obtained by simple count. Additional statistics tracked include the number of viewings. A linear regression analysis was used to determine the strength of the linear relationship between collection size and usage.

Findings

– Results indicate that e-reference collections that continue to grow in both size and content also continue to experience year-to-year increases in usage. E-reference collections that remain static in size and content experienced a decline in usage. A linear regression analysis indicates the existence of an extremely strong linear relationship between dynamic content and usage. A weaker linear relationship was calculated for static content.

Originality/value

– To this author’s knowledge, this research is the first to systematically and quantitatively compare usage levels between e-reference titles from growing collections to collections that have not had any new titles added recently.
“Masked crusader”: a case study of “crime-fighting” activities by a “real-life superhero”
Authors: Iouchkov Vladislav , Birch Philip
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine informal social control, vigilantism, and bystander intervention with reference to the Real-Life Superhero (RLSH) movement/community.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a qualitative case study in which an in-depth semi-structured interview was conducted with a member of the RLSH community.

Findings

– This paper conceptualises RLSH activity as a novel approach to informal social control and bystander intervention, whilst revealing the inaccuracy of the media-imposed “vigilante” stigma attributed to RLSHs.

Research limitations/implications

– Clarifying the goals and methods of RLSHs as striving to be pro-social and law-abiding in nature creates an avenue for dialogue between RLSHs and local justice agencies to establish a working partnership for community safety, thereby mediating interactions between informal and formal agents of social control.

Practical implications

– Justice agencies to engage with all individuals and groups who are performing community safety/crime prevention functions in a more effective and inclusive way. To ensure formal and informal mechanisms of social control, and the wider community, recognise, and legitimise the RLSH movement in community safety policy and practice. Reconsider the use of the term “vigilantism” and how it is it applied to individuals and community groups involved in community safety policy and practice. This case study presents a unique approach to community safety and crime prevention that can be extended within this public safety philosophy and practice.

Originality/value

– This study is a contribution to a small but growing body of research concerning the RLSH movement/community.
Detection of retinal changes in idiopathic Parkinson's disease using high‐resolution optical coherence tomography and heidelberg retina tomography
Authors: Bittersohl Diana , Stemplewitz Birthe , Keserü Matthias , Buhmann Carsten , Richard Gisbert , Hassenstein Andrea
Published: June 2015

Purpose

The study was performed to analyse the retina of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) for morphological changes compared to healthy controls (HC) using spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT) and confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy.

Methods

We enrolled 108 patients with idiopathic PD and 165 HC. All study participants underwent an ophthalmological examination to exclude ophthalmological disorder potentially interfering with the retinal analyses. Peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and macular thickness and volume were measured by a SD‐OCT device (Heidelberg Spectralis®). Stereometric parameters of the optic disc were acquired by Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT III).

Results

The RNFL thickness did not significantly differ between patients with PD and HC. The thickness of the central minimum and the centre of the macular area were significantly reduced in patients with PD, while the total macular volume did not significantly differ between the groups. Furthermore, we noted an inverse correlation between the central minimum thickness and the disease severity (assessed by the Hoehn and Yahr scale). HRT data showed no significant differences.

Conclusion

The HRT device and the RNFL measurements of the SD‐OCT did not prove to be a clinically valid diagnostic tool to distinguish eyes of patients with PD and HC. However, the macular region and especially the foveola (central minimum) with the highest density of photoreceptor cells seem to be more sensitive and might be potential biomarkers.
Scanning laser polarimetry and spectral domain optical coherence tomography for the detection of retinal changes in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Stemplewitz Birthe , Keserü Matthias , Bittersohl Diana , Buhmann Carsten , Skevas Christos , Richard Gisbert , Hassenstein Andrea
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Whether retinal degeneration is part of the degenerative processes in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is still unclear. This cross‐sectional study was undertaken to compare the retinal morphology of patients with PD and healthy controls using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT) and scanning laser polarimetry (SLP).

Methods

Both eyes of patients with PD (n = 108) and healthy controls (n = 165) were examined using SD‐OCT and SLP on the same day. Data on the thickness of the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) of all quadrants and the macular area were acquired by OCT (Cirrus, Zeiss). The SLP device (Glaucoma diagnostics (GDx), Zeiss) measured the RNFL and calculated the nerve fibre index (NFI). All patients and probands were checked for concomitant ocular disorders by an ophthalmologist. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), objective refraction and the anterior and posterior segment were assessed.

Results

Patients with PD showed a reduced macular volume and a reduced central subfield thickness in OCT examinations. The RNFL in the different quadrants did not differ significantly from that of controls. SLP data showed a reduced average RNFL thickness, a decreased thickness of the inferior quadrant and an increase of the NFI in patients with PD.

Conclusion

PD may be associated with reduced thickness and volume of the macula and a reduced thickness of the RNFL in the inferior quadrant of the retina. Investigations using SD‐OCT and SLP revealed distinct but significant differences between patients with PD and healthy controls.
Molecular architecture of the stria vascularis membrane transport system, which is essential for physiological functions of the mammalian cochlea
Authors: Uetsuka Satoru , Ogata Genki , Nagamori Shushi , Isozumi Noriyoshi , Nin Fumiaki , Yoshida Takamasa , Komune Shizuo , Kitahara Tadashi , Kikkawa Yoshiaki , Inohara Hidenori , Kanai Yoshikatsu , Hibino Hiroshi
Published: June 2015

Stria vascularis of the mammalian cochlea transports K+ to establish the electrochemical property in the endolymph crucial for hearing. This epithelial tissue also transports various small molecules. To clarify the profile of proteins participating in the transport system in the stria vascularis, membrane components purified from the stria of adult rats were analysed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Of the 3236 proteins detected in the analysis, 1807 were membrane proteins. Ingenuity Knowledge Base and literature data identified 513 proteins as being expressed on the ‘plasma membrane’, these included 25 ion channels and 79 transporters. Sixteen of the former and 62 of the latter had not yet been identified in the stria. Unexpectedly, many Cl− and Ca2+ transport systems were found, suggesting that the dynamics of these ions play multiple roles. Several transporters for organic substances were also detected. Network analysis demonstrated that a few kinases, including protein kinase A, and Ca2+ were key regulators for the strial transports. In the library of channels and transporters, 19 new candidates for uncloned deafness‐related genes were identified. These resources provide a platform for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the epithelial transport essential for cochlear function and the pathophysiological processes involved in hearing disorders.
Sociomaterial Texts, Spaces and Devices: Questioning ‘Digital Dualism’ in Library and Study Practices
Authors: Gourlay Lesley , Lanclos Donna M. , Oliver Martin
Published: June 2015

Work on students' study practices posits the digital and material as separate domains, with the ‘digital’ assumed to be disembodied, decontextualised and free‐floating, and spaces in the material campus positioned as prototypically ‘traditional’ and analogue. Libraries in particular are often characterised as symbolic of predigital literacy practices and forms of meaning making. This binary oversimplifies student engagement, particularly in relation to their creation of and interactions with texts. Two studies illustrate this: an investigation of student and staff textual practices that explored the complex and emergent networks they created, adapted and maintained; and one that explored perceptions and use of library spaces (digital and physical). A sociomaterial analysis shows the ongoing importance of institutional, personal and public spaces. This demonstrates that in order to enhance the student experience, a more nuanced understanding of the complex, emergent relationships between digital and print, device and user, and author and text is required.
Cell‐mediated anti‐Gag immunity in pharmacologically induced functional cure of simian AIDS: a ‘bottleneck effect’?
Authors: Shytaj Iart Luca , Savarino Andrea
Published: June 2015

Background

Administration of antiretroviral therapy and two experimental drugs, auranofin and buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), was previously shown to be followed by drug‐free control of chronic SIVmac251 infection, decreased immune activation and increased cell‐mediated anti‐Gag responses.

Methods

Phylogeny was analysed with Phylogeny.fr. Entropy was calculated with the specific tool of the HIV Sequence Database. The capsid Gag structure was computed using SPDBV. The bottleneck effect was simulated through an appropriate online tool.

Results

The region of Gag predominantly targeted during control of SIVmac251 infection is highly conserved in primate lentiviruses and plays an important role in capsid architecture. Computer‐aided simulations support the view that the preferential development of immune responses against this region is derived from a ‘bottleneck effect’ after restriction, by auranofin and BSO, of the activated lymphocyte pool.

Conclusions

Restriction of immune activation through auranofin/BSO may result in stochastic selection of cell clones targeting conserved epitopes leading to a functional cure‐like condition.
Unilateral renal phaeohyphomycosis due to Bipolaris spicifera in an immunocompetent child – rare case presentation and review of literature
Authors: Kaur Ravinder , Bala Kiran
Published: June 2015

Phaeohyphomycosis refers to infections caused by phaeoid fungi that can have an aggressive course in normal hosts. We report a case of left‐sided renal phaeohyphomycosis due to Bipolaris spicifera in a 7‐year‐old immunocompetent male child. He presented with fever, dysuria, nausea, vomiting and flank pain. Examination revealed tenderness at the left costovertebral angle. Histological examination and culture of biopsy from left kidney and blood yielded the fungal pathogen Bipolaris spicifera. His past history revealed that he was diagnosed perinatally with bilateral hydronephrosis due to bilateral pelvic ureteric junction obstruction. He underwent an open dismembered pyeloplasty on the left side followed by the right side pyeloplasty at the age of 6 months and 1.5 years respectively. He was on a regular follow‐up for 5 years and had been doing well. Now he was diagnosed as a case of unilateral renal phaeohyphomycosis. The patient was managed successfully with antifungal drugs amphotericin B and itraconazole. A review of previously reported bipolaris cases with their clinical manifestations, treatment and outcome is presented. Renal phaeohyphomycosis remains an unusual disease. Aggressive diagnostic approaches and careful management helped in survival of the patient.
Confidence Matters for Current Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence for the Euro Area and the United States*
Authors: de Bondt Gabe J. , Schiaffi Stefano
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The literature typically undervalues the economy‐wide importance of confidence, despite a renewed interest since the recent financial crisis in considering also psychological factors such as confidence. This study empirically assesses whether confidence matters for current real GDP growth in the euro area and the United States in addition to a widely applied and reliable predictor, the Purchasing Managers’ Index.

Methods

We add confidence indicators to a regression of real GDP growth on the composite PMI output index and check for a different impact of confidence during recessions as opposed to expansions by applying smooth transition regressions.

Results

Confidence matters for economic growth, both in good and bad times. This result is robust across sample periods, models, and proxies for confidence.

Conclusions

Confidence is essential for assessing the current stage of the business cycle. Analysts should therefore closely monitor sentiment swings, whereas private and public decisionmakers can boost growth by improving confidence in the economy.
Steady Viscous Flow Between Two Porous Disks With Stretching Motion
Authors: Fang Tiegang , He Xin
Published: June 2015

In this work, an exact solution to the steady-state Navier–Stokes (NS) equations is presented for viscous flows between two stretchable disks with mass transpiration effects. The governing momentum equations were converted into an ordinary differential equation by a similarity transformation technique. The similarity equation was solved numerically and the effects of Reynolds number and the mass transpiration parameter were investigated. At very low Reynolds numbers (i.e., R → 0), a creeping flow was observed with a parabolic radial velocity profile and a cubic function profile for the vertical velocity. With the increase of the Reynolds number, the flow shows a boundary layer behavior near the wall with a constant velocity core flow in the centerline region between the two disks for mass suction or lower mass injection. The effects of the mass transpiration on the flow are quite different and interesting. With strong suction, the radial profiles also show boundary layer type characteristics with a core flow. But for large mass injection, the radial velocity approaches to a linear profile under higher Reynolds number. These results are a rare case of an exact solution to the NS equations and are useful as a benchmark problem for the validation of three-dimensional (3D) numerical computation code.