bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of Leachate Infiltration from Dumpsites into the Groundwater System of Agu-Awka and Environs, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: B. I. Odoh, , J. I. Korie, , C. P. Arukwe-Moses, , C. V. Ahaneku, , M. C. Azike, , C. D. Muogbo, , S. N. Chibuzor,
Published: August 2024

This study was carried out in Agu-Akwa, Southeastern Nigeria, to investigate the impacts of leachate infiltration from dumpsites on the groundwater system using an integrated approach that combines geotechnical, geochemical, and geophysical methods. The research methodology involves a preliminary study through literature reviews, followed by integrated geotechnical, geophysical, and geochemical approaches to achieve its aim. The geotechnical analysis identifies two major soil types, sand and shale, with an average hydraulic conductivity of 0.011cm/s, ranging from 0.007 to 0.022cm/s. The soils are generally poorly graded. The interpretation of geo-electric layers reveals water-saturated sandstones and weathered shales, the primary aquifers, with average depth, thickness, resistivity, and transmissivity values of 55.01m, 26.45m, 327.09 Ωm, and 143.44m2/day, respectively. The area's aquifer protective capacity and aquifer vulnerability index were found to be poor to good and low to moderate, respectively. Hydrogeochemical analysis revealed elevated levels of pH (5.10 – 6.80), Biological Oxygen Demand (104 – 488), Chemical Oxygen Demand (23.68 – 102.08), Mercury (0.040 – 0.253mg/L), Chromium (0 – 0.321mg/L), and Arsenic (0.004 – 0.218mg/L) above permissible limits of the World Health Organization for drinking water. The result of the study reveals that areas with low hydraulic conductivity, poor aquifer protective capacity, and moderate vulnerability exhibit elevated concentrations of heavy metals, turbidity, and contaminants. This result concludes that leachate infiltration significantly affects groundwater quality in these areas, underscoring the importance of our research. Hence, sanitary landfills should be located in areas with lower aquifer vulnerability, and strict waste management and monitoring practices should be implemented to prevent groundwater contamination.
The Role of Agriculture in Poverty Alleviation and Rural Development
Authors: Singh Awadhesh Kumar , Pathak Mahesh , Joshi Milind D. , Kumar Sunil , Kashyap Shakuli , Hasan Wajid
Published: August 2024

Agriculture plays a crucial role in poverty alleviation and rural development worldwide, particularly in developing regions like Asia and India. This article examines the multifaceted ways in which agriculture contributes to these goals, including income generation, food security, employment creation, and social rural empowerment. It highlights the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, such as limited access to resources, technology, and markets, and discusses strategies to overcome these barriers. The article also explores the potential of sustainable agricultural practices, value chain development, and policy interventions in fostering inclusive growth and reducing rural poverty. Case studies from various countries illustrate successful approaches and lessons learned. The analysis emphasizes the need for holistic, context-specific solutions that leverage the synergies between agriculture, poverty reduction, and rural development. By investing in agriculture and empowering rural and urban communities, nations can make significant strides towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
Anmerkung zu EuGH, Urt. v. 22.2.2024 – C-661/22
Authors: Omlor Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Art. 4 Nr. 3 der Richtlinie (EU) 2015/2366 ... und Art. 2 Nr. 2 der RL 2009/110/EG ... sind dahin auszulegen, dass die Tätigkeit eines Zahlungsinstituts, die darin besteht, von einem Zahlungsdienstnutzer Geldbeträge entgegenzunehmen, ohne dass diesen Geldbeträgen sofort ein Zahlungsauftrag beigefügt ist, so dass sie auf einem von diesem Institut geführten Zahlungskonto i.S.v. Art. 4 Nr. 12 der RL 2015/2366 verfügbar bleiben, einen von dem Zahlungsinstitut erbrachten Zahlungsdienst i.S.v. Art. 4 Nr. 3 der RL 2015/2366 und keinen Vorgang der Ausgabe von E-Geld i.S.v. Art. 2 Nr. 2 der RL 2009/110 darstellt.
Kassenstaatsklausel: Neufassung des § 50d Abs. 7 EStG durch das Jahressteuergesetz 2024
Authors: Kappelmann Christian
Published: August 2024

Der Referenten- und der Regierungsentwurf des Jahressteuergesetzes 2024 enthalten eine überarbeitete Fassung der Treaty- Override-Regelung in § 50d Abs. 7 EStG. Mit der Neufassung des § 50d Abs. 7 EStG will der Gesetzgeber auf die Kritik und die Unklarheiten in der aktuellen Fassung des § 50d Abs. 7 EStG reagieren, weitet dessen Anwendungsbereich durch die Neuregelung jedoch auch erheblich gegenüber der aktuellen Fassung aus.
Zollrecht: Abbildung zollrechtliche Risiken im Ertragsteuerrecht
Authors: Wolfgang Brill Mirko , Scheller Peter
Published: August 2024

Zollrechtliche Verstöße können erheblich wirtschaftliche Risiken für beteiligte Unternehmen haben. Damit stellt sich auch die Frage, wie sich diese Risiken im ertragsteuerlichen Bereich auswirken. Im vorliegenden Beitrag soll die Frage untersucht werden, wann und zu welchem Zeitpunkt entsprechende Risiken im Jahresabschluss eines Unternehmens zu erfassen sind. Das Urteil des EuGH v. 7.4.2022 - C-489/20 in der Rechtssache Kauno teritorine muitineaus dem Grenzbereich zwischen Zoll‑, Umsatzsatz- und Verbrauchsteuerrecht bietet den Anlass, sich vertiefte Gedanken zur vorgenannten Frage zu machen.
Die Sicherheitsleistung nach § 6 Reisesicherungsfondsgesetz
Authors: Nossek Timo
Published: August 2024

Aktuell rückt der Insolvenzantrag verschiedener Gesellschaften der FTI Group, einer der größten deutschen Reiseanbieter, das System des Reisesicherungsfonds in die Erinnerung einer breiten Fachöffentlichkeit. Dieser Beitrag beleuchtet die Sicherheitsleistungen der Reiseanbieter gegenüber dem Reisesicherungsfond und stellt deren systematische Funktion im System des Reisesicherungsfonds sowie den Prozess der Inanspruchnahme und Abwicklung der Sicherheitsleistung dar.
2013 World Ocean Atlas Aids High‐Resolution Climate Studies
Authors: Boyer Tim P. , Garcia Hernan E. , Locarnini Ricardo A. , Zweng Melissa M. , Mishonov Alexey V. , Reagan James R. , Antonov John I. , Baranova Olga K. , Biddle Mathew M. , Johnson Daphne R. , Paver Christopher R.
Published: October 2014

Since 1982, the Levitus Climatological Atlas of the World's Ocean and each succeeding World Ocean Atlas have been used to provide initial and boundary conditions for modeling studies, as well as baselines for climate studies. However, there has been a broadening demand for ocean modeling on spatial scales finer than 1‐degree resolution [e.g., Penduff et al., 2010]. Likewise, vertical resolution for isobaric coordinate models is important for realistic representation of ocean processes [Wang et al., 2008].
Segmentation of plate coupling, fate of subduction fluids, and modes of arc magmatism in Cascadia, inferred from magnetotelluric resistivity
Authors: Wannamaker Philip E. , Evans Rob L. , Bedrosian Paul A. , Unsworth Martyn J. , Maris Virginie , McGary R. Shane
Published: October 2014

Five magnetotelluric (MT) profiles have been acquired across the Cascadia subduction system and transformed using 2‐D and 3‐D nonlinear inversion to yield electrical resistivity cross sections to depths of ∼200 km. Distinct changes in plate coupling, subduction fluid evolution, and modes of arc magmatism along the length of Cascadia are clearly expressed in the resistivity structure. Relatively high resistivities under the coasts of northern and southern Cascadia correlate with elevated degrees of inferred plate locking, and suggest fluid‐ and sediment‐deficient conditions. In contrast, the north‐central Oregon coastal structure is quite conductive from the plate interface to shallow depths offshore, correlating with poor plate locking and the possible presence of subducted sediments. Low‐resistivity fluidized zones develop at slab depths of 35–40 km starting ∼100 km west of the arc on all profiles, and are interpreted to represent prograde metamorphic fluid release from the subducting slab. The fluids rise to forearc Moho levels, and sometimes shallower, as the arc is approached. The zones begin close to clusters of low‐frequency earthquakes, suggesting fluid controls on the transition to steady sliding. Under the northern and southern Cascadia arc segments, low upper mantle resistivities are consistent with flux melting above the slab plus possible deep convective backarc upwelling toward the arc. In central Cascadia, extensional deformation is interpreted to segregate upper mantle melts leading to underplating and low resistivities at Moho to lower crustal levels below the arc and nearby backarc. The low‐ to high‐temperature mantle wedge transition lies slightly trenchward of the arc.
Plagioclase preferred orientation and induced seismic anisotropy in mafic igneous rocks
Authors: Ji Shaocheng , Shao Tongbin , Salisbury Matthew H. , Sun Shengsi , Michibayashi Katsuyoshi , Zhao Weihua , Long Changxing , Liang Fenghua , Satsukawa Takako
Published: October 2014

Fractional crystallization and crystal segregation controlled by settling or floating of minerals during the cooling of magma can lead to layered structures in mafic and ultramafic intrusions in continental and oceanic settings in the lower crust. Thus, the seismic properties and fabrics of layered intrusions must be calibrated to gain insight into the origin of seismic reflections and anisotropy in the deep crust. To this end, we have measured P and S wave velocities and anisotropy in 17 plagioclase‐rich mafic igneous rocks such as anorthosite and gabbro at hydrostatic pressures up to 650 MPa. Anorthosites and gabbroic anorthosites containing >80 vol% plagioclase and gabbros consisting of nearly equal modal contents of plagioclase and pyroxene display distinctive seismic anisotropy patterns: Vp(Z)/Vp(Y) ≥ 1 and Vp(Z)/Vp(X) ≥ 1 for anorthosites while 0.8 < Vp(Z)/Vp(Y) ≤ 1 and 0.8 < Vp(Z)/Vp(X) ≤ 1 for gabbros. Amphibolites lie in the same domain as gabbros, but show a significantly stronger tendency of Vp(X) > Vp(Y) than the gabbros. Laminated anorthosites with Vp(X) ≈ Vp(Y) ≪ Vp(Z) display a strong crystal preferred orientation (CPO) of plagioclase whose (010) planes and [100] and [001] directions parallel to the foliation. For the gabbros and amphibolites characterized by Vp(X) ≈ Vp(Y) > Vp(Z) and Vp(X) > Vp(Y) > Vp(Z), respectively, pyroxene and amphibole play a dominant role over plagioclase in the formation of seismic anisotropy. The Poisson's ratio calculated using the average P and S wave velocities from the three principal propagation‐polarization directions (X, Y, and Z) of a highly anisotropic anorthosite cannot represent the value of a true isotropic equivalent. The CPO‐induced anisotropy enhances and decreases the foliation‐normal incidence reflectivity at gabbro‐peridotite and anorthosite‐peridotite interfaces, respectively.
Vertical distribution of gravity wave potential energy from long‐term Rayleigh lidar data at a northern middle‐latitude site
Authors: Mzé N. , Hauchecorne A. , Keckhut P. , Thétis M.
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we use the Rayleigh lidar in order to give an overview of the gravity wave activity at a northern middle‐latitude station at Haute‐Provence Observatory (43.93°N, 5.71°E). In order to have access to perturbations with short time and vertical scales, at least in a statistical sense, we analyze raw lidar signals with a variance method. Sixteen years of lidar data sets are analyzed in this study. The results of the variability, climatology, and seasonal changes are reported. We observe night‐to‐night variability in gravity wave potential energy, which follows a lognormal distribution with a standard deviation ranging between 0.50 and 0.58 (base 10 logarithm). A monthly distribution of gravity waves is also obtained in the upper stratosphere and mesosphere. In the 30–50 km altitude range (the upper stratosphere), an annual cycle is clearly found with a maximum in winter and a minimum in summer. An annual cycle in the lower mesosphere is also observed with maximum in winter. In the upper mesosphere, a semiannual cycle is found at ~75 km. At this altitude, the maximum gravity wave activity occurs in winter and in summer. A more pronounced summer maximum is observed (+25%). The summer maximum at Haute‐Provence Observatory in the upper mesosphere is probably due to oblique propagation. Looking at the seasonally averaged profiles, it is possible to observe the preferential altitudes of energy dissipation. Gravity waves are dissipating above ~70 km during all seasons, but there is relatively little dissipation at lower altitudes.
Using Film to Critically Engage Student Development Theory
Authors: Turner Kelly Bridget , Porter Kamaria B.
Published: October 2014

Bridget Turner Kelly and Kamaria B. Porter describe how film can be a powerful pedagogical tool to help students recognize, understand, and critique abstract, theoretical concepts in higher education graduate classes at Loyola University Chicago.
Baclofen facilitates sleep, neuroplasticity, and recovery after stroke in rats
Authors: Hodor Aleksandra , Palchykova Svitlana , Baracchi Francesca , Noain Daniela , Bassetti Claudio L.
Published: October 2014

Objective

Sleep disruption in the acute phase after stroke has detrimental effects on recovery in both humans and animals. Conversely, the effect of sleep promotion remains unclear. Baclofen (Bac) is a known non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep‐promoting drug in both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Bac on stroke recovery in a rat model of focal cerebral ischemia (isch).

Methods

Rats, assigned to three experimental groups (Bac/isch, saline/isch, or Bac/sham), were injected twice daily for 10 consecutive days with Bac or saline, starting 24 h after induction of stroke. The sleep–wake cycle was assessed by EEG recordings and functional motor recovery by single pellet reaching test (SPR). In order to identify potential neuroplasticity mechanisms, axonal sprouting and neurogenesis were evaluated. Brain damage was assessed by Nissl staining.

Results

Repeated Bac treatment after ischemia affected sleep, motor function, and neuroplasticity, but not the size of brain damage. NREM sleep amount was increased significantly during the dark phase in Bac/isch compared to the saline/isch group. SPR performance dropped to 0 immediately after stroke and was recovered slowly thereafter in both ischemic groups. However, Bac‐treated ischemic rats performed significantly better than saline‐treated animals. Axonal sprouting in the ipsilesional motor cortex and striatum, and neurogenesis in the peri‐infarct region were significantly increased in Bac/isch group.

Conclusion

Delayed repeated Bac treatment after stroke increased NREM sleep and promoted both neuroplasticity and functional outcome. These data support the hypothesis of the role of sleep as a modulator of poststroke recovery.
Plasmonic Janus‐Composite Photocatalyst Comprising Au and C–TiO2 for Enhanced Aerobic Oxidation over a Broad Visible‐Light Range
Authors: Liu Lequan , Dao Thang Duy , Kodiyath Rajesh , Kang Qing , Abe Hideki , Nagao Tadaaki , Ye Jinhua
Published: October 2014

Asymmetric Janus nanostructures containing a gold nanocage (NC) and a carbon–titania hybrid nanocrystal (AuNC/(C–TiO2)) are prepared using a novel and facile microemulsion‐based approach that involves the assistance of ethanol. The localized surface plasmon resonance of the Au NC with a hollow interior and porous walls induce broadband visible‐light harvesting in the Janus AuNC/(C–TiO2). An acetone evolution rate of 6.3 μmol h−1 g−1 is obtained when the Janus nanostructure is used for the photocatalytic aerobic oxidation of iso‐propanol under visible light (λ = 480–910 nm); the rate is 3.2 times the value of that obtained with C–TiO2, and in photo‐electrochemical investigations an approximately fivefold enhancement is obtained. Moreover, when compared with the core–shell structure (AuNC@(C–TiO2) and a gold–carbon–titania system where Au sphere nanoparticles act as light‐harvesting antenna, Janus AuNC/(C–TiO2) exhibit superior plasmonic enhancement. Electromagnetic field simulation and electron paramagnetic resonance results suggest that the plasmon–photon coupling effect is dramatically amplified at the interface between the Au NC and C–TiO2, leading to enhanced generation of energetic hot electrons for photocatalysis.
Effects of Delocalized Charge Carriers in Organic Solar Cells: Predicting Nanoscale Device Performance from Morphology
Authors: Gagorik Adam G. , Mohin Jacob W. , Kowalewski Tomasz , Hutchison Geoffrey R.
Published: October 2014

Monte Carlo simulations of charge transport in organic solar cells are performed for ideal and isotropic bulk heterojunction morphologies while altering the delocalization length of charge carriers. Previous device simulations have either treated carriers as point charges or with a highly delocalized mean‐field treatment. This new model of charge delocalization leads to weakening of Coulomb interactions and more realistic predicted current and fill factors at moderate delocalization, relative to point charges. It is found that charge delocalization leads to significantly increased likelihood of escaping interface traps. In isotopic two‐phase morphologies, increasing the domain sizes leads to slight decreases in predicted device efficiencies. It was previously shown that tortuous pathways in systems with small domain sizes can decrease device performance in thin film systems. However, the diminishing effects of Coulomb interactions with delocalization and efficient separations of excitons by small domains make morphological effects less pronounced. The importance of delocalization, which has largely been ignored in past simulations, as a parameter to consider and optimize when choosing materials for organic solar cells is emphasized.
Controlling Major Cellular Processes of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells using Microwell Structures
Authors: Xu Xun , Wang Weiwei , Kratz Karl , Fang Liang , Li Zhengdong , Kurtz Andreas , Ma Nan , Lendlein Andreas
Published: October 2014

Directing stem cells towards a desired location and function by utilizing the structural cues of biomaterials is a promising approach for inducing effective tissue regeneration. Here, the cellular response of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) to structural signals from microstructured substrates comprising arrays of square‐shaped or round‐shaped microwells is explored as a transitional model between 2D and 3D systems. Microwells with a side length/diameter of 50 μm show advantages over 10 μm and 25 μm microwells for accommodating hADSCs within single microwells rather than in the inter‐microwell area. The cell morphologies are three‐dimensionally modulated by the microwell structure due to differences in focal adhesion and consequent alterations of the cytoskeleton. In contrast to the substrate with 50 μm round‐shaped microwells, the substrate with 50 μm square‐shaped microwells promotes the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation potential of hADSCs but reduces the cell migration velocity and distance. Such microwell shape‐dependent modulatory effects are highly associated with Rho/ROCK signaling. Following ROCK inhibition, the differences in migration, proliferation, and osteogenesis between cells on different substrates are diminished. These results highlight the possibility to control stem cell functions through the use of structured microwells combined with the manipulation of Rho/ROCK signaling.
A Rotaxane‐Like Supramolecular Assembly Featuring Orthogonal Recognition Modes
Authors: Menozzi Daniela , Leigh David A. , Dalcanale Enrico
Published: October 2014

A phosphonate cavitand‐terminated rotaxane‐like complex is assembled by exploiting orthogonal recognition modes for the threading and the end‐capping processes.
Chimpanzees prey on army ants at Seringbara, Nimba Mountains, Guinea: Predation patterns and tool use characteristics
Authors: Koops Kathelijne , Schöning Caspar , McGrew William C. , Matsuzawa Tetsuro
Published: October 2014

Chimpanzees are renowned for their use of foraging tools in harvesting social insects and some populations use tools to prey on aggressive army ants (Dorylusspp.). Tool use in army ant predation varies across chimpanzee study sites with differences in tool length, harvesting technique, and army ant species targeted. However, surprisingly little is known about the detailed ecology of army ant predation. We studied army ant predation by chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) at the Seringbara study site in the Nimba Mountains, Guinea (West Africa), over 10 years (2003–2013). We investigated chimpanzee selectivity with regards to army ant prey species. We assessed the temporal variation in army ant‐feeding and examined whether army ant predation was related to rainfall or ripe fruit availability. Moreover, we examined whether chimpanzees showed selectivity regarding plant species used for tool manufacture, as well as the relationship between tool species preference and tool collection distance. Lastly, we measured tool properties and investigated the use of tool sets and composite tools in army ant predation. Seringbara chimpanzees preyed on one army ant species (D. nigricans) more often than expected based on encounter rates, which may be explained by the overlap in altitudinal distribution between chimpanzees andD. nigricans. Army ant predation was not related to rainfall or fruit availability. Chimpanzees were selective in their choice of tool materials and collected their preferred tool species (Alchornea hirtella) from greater distances than they did other species. Lastly, Seringbara chimpanzees used both tool sets and composite tools (tree perch) in army ant predation. Tool types (dig vs. dip) differed in width and strength, but not length. Tool composites were found at 40% of ant‐feeding sites. Our study sheds new light on the ecology of army ant predation and provides novel insights into chimpanzee selection of army ant prey and tool species. Am. J. Primatol. 77:319–329, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Magnetisation oscillations, boundary conditions and the Hofstadter butterfly in graphene flakes
Authors: Liu Yang , Brada Matej , Mele Eugene J. , Kusmartsev Feodor V.
Published: October 2014

New quantum oscillations in the magnetization of graphene flakes induced by magnetic fields, which depend on the shape of the flake, are described. At small values of the field they are due to the Aharonov‐Bohm effect and with increasing field they are transformed into dHvA oscillations. The specific form of the dHvA oscillations is analyzed in terms of their energy spectrum, which has a form of Hofstadter's butterfly. Numerical results using a lattice tight‐binding model and a continuum Dirac equation are presented and compared. Possible experiments to investigate the quantum oscillations in Moiré and graphene anti‐dot superlattices are discussed.
Dilithiumhexaorganozinn(IV)‐Verbindungen
Authors: Schrader Ireen , Zeckert Kornelia , Zahn Stefan
Published: October 2014

Die Hyperkoordination von Hauptgruppenelementen, wie der schweren Gruppe‐14‐Elemente Silicium, Germanium, Zinn und Blei, erfordert im Allgemeinen stark elektronegative Liganden oder die Anwesenheit von Donoratomen. Wir berichten über zwei Hexaarylzinn(IV)‐Dianionen, die in Form ihrer Dilithiumsalze [Li2(thf)2{Sn(2‐pyMe)6}] (pyMe=C5H3N‐5‐Me) (2) und [Li2{Sn(2‐pyOtBu)6}] (pyOtBu=C5H3N‐6‐OtBu) (3) synthetisiert und charakterisiert wurden. Unter inerten Bedingungen weisen beide Verbindungen sowohl in Lösung als auch in kristalliner Form eine hohe Stabilität auf. Theoretische Rechnungen an Verbindung 2 zeigen die Bildung sechs stark polarisierter, kovalenter Zinn‐Kohlenstoff‐Bindungen, die auf einen maßgeblichen Beitrag des 5s‐Valenzorbitals am Zinnatom zurückzuführen sind.
Tour of a Labyrinth: Exploring the Vertebrate Nose
Authors: Van Valkenburgh Blaire , Smith Timothy D. , Craven Brent A.
Published: October 2014

This special issue of The Anatomical Record is the outcome of a symposium entitled “Inside the Vertebrate Nose: Evolution, Structure and Function.” The skeletal framework of the nasal cavity is a complicated structure that often houses sinuses and comprises an internal skeleton of bone or cartilage that can vary greatly in architecture among species. The nose serves multiple functions, including olfaction and respiratory air‐conditioning, and its morphology is constrained by evolution, development, and conflicting demands on cranial space, such as enlarged orbits. The nasal cavity of vertebrates has received much more attention in the last decade due to the emergence of nondestructive methods that allow improved visualization of the internal anatomy of the skull, such as high‐resolution x‐ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The 17 articles included here represent a broad range of investigators, from paleontologists to engineers, who approach the nose from different perspectives. Key topics include the evolution and development of the nose, its comparative anatomy and function, and airflow through the nasal cavity of individual species. In addition, this special issue includes review articles on anatomical reduction of the olfactory apparatus in both cetaceans and primates (the vomeronasal system), as well as the molecular biology of olfaction in vertebrates. Together these articles provide an expansive summary of our current understanding of vertebrate nasal anatomy and function. In this introduction, we provide background information and an overview of each of the three primary topics, and place each article within the context of previous research and the major challenges that lie ahead. Anat Rec, 297:1975–1984, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond the Sniffer: Frontal Sinuses in Carnivora
Authors: Curtis Abigail A. , Van Valkenburgh Blaire
Published: October 2014

Paranasal sinuses are some of the most poorly understood features of mammalian cranial anatomy. They are highly variable in presence and form among species, but their function is not well understood. The best‐supported explanations for the function of sinuses is that they opportunistically fill mechanically unnecessary space, but that in some cases, sinuses in combination with the configuration of the frontal bone may improve skull performance by increasing skull strength and dissipating stresses more evenly. We used CT technology to investigate patterns in frontal sinus size and shape disparity among three families of carnivores: Canidae, Felidae, and Hyaenidae. We provide some of the first quantitative data on sinus morphology for these three families, and employ a novel method to quantify the relationship between three‐dimensional sinus shape and skull shape. As expected, frontal sinus size and shape were more strongly correlated with frontal bone size and shape than with the morphology of the skull as a whole. However, sinus morphology was also related to allometric differences among families that are linked to biomechanical function. Our results support the hypothesis that frontal sinuses most often opportunistically fill space that is mechanically unnecessary, and they can facilitate cranial shape changes that reduce stress during feeding. Moreover, we suggest that the ability to form frontal sinuses allows species to modify skull function without compromising the performance of more functionally constrained regions such as the nasal chamber (heat/water conservation, olfaction), and braincase (housing the brain and sensory structures). Anat Rec, 297:2047–2064, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative Anatomy and Systematic Implications of the Turbinal Skeleton in Lagomorpha (Mammalia)
Authors: Ruf Irina
Published: October 2014

In order to elucidate the systematic relevance of the turbinal skeleton in Lagomorpha the ethmoidal regions of 6 ochotonid, 21 leporid, and 2 outgroup species (Sciurus vulgaris, Tupaia sp.) species were investigated by high‐resolution computed tomography (μCT). Number and shape of turbinals correspond to major clades and to several genera. All Lagomorpha under study have a deeply excavated nasoturbinal that is continuous with the lamina semicircularis; a feature likely to be an autapomorphy of lagomorphs. In particular, the olfactory turbinals (frontoturbinals, ethmoturbinals, and interturbinals) provide new systematic information. The plesiomorphic lagomorph pattern comprises two frontoturbinals, three ethmoturbinals, and one interturbinal between ethmoturbinal I and II. Ochotonidae are derived from the lagomorph goundplan by loss of ethmoturbinal III; an interturbinal between the two frontoturbinals is an autapomorphy of Leporidae. Pronolagus is apomorphic in having a very slender first ethmoturbinal, but shows a puzzling pattern in decreasing the number of turbinals. Pronolagus rupestris and Romerolagus diazi have independently reduced their turbinals to just two fronto‐ and two ethmoturbinals, which is the lowest number among the sampled lagomorphs. In contrast, the more derived leporid genera under study (Oryctolagus, Caprolagus, Sylvilagus, and Lepus) show a tendency to increase the number of turbinals, either by developing an ethmoturbinal IV (Caprolagus hispidus, Lepus arcticus) or by additional interturbinals. Intraspecific variation was investigated in Ochotona alpina, Oryctolagus cuniculus, and Lepus europaeus and is restricted to additional interturbinals in the frontoturbinal recess of the two leporids. Anat Rec, 297:2031–2046, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Molecular Biology of Vertebrate Olfaction
Authors: Hayden Sara , Teeling Emma C.
Published: October 2014

The importance of chemosensation for vertebrates is reflected in the vast and variable nature of their chemosensory tissues, neurons, and genes, which we explore in this review. Immense progress has been made in elucidating the molecular biology of olfaction since the discovery of the olfactory receptor genes by Buck and Axel, which eventually won the authors the Nobel Prize. In particular, research linking odor ligands to olfactory receptors (ORs) is truly revolutionizing our understanding of how a large but limited number of chemosensory receptors can allow us to perceive the massive diversity of odors in our habitat. This research is providing insight into the evolution of genomes and providing the raw data needed to explore links between genotype and phenotype, still a grand challenge in biology. Research into olfaction is still developing and will no doubt continue until we have a clear understanding of how all odors are detected and the evolutionary forces that have molded the chemosensory subgenome in vertebrates. This knowledge will not only be a huge step in elucidating olfactory function, advancing scientific knowledge and techniques, but there are also commercial applications for this research. This review focuses on the molecular basis of chemosensation, particularly olfaction, its evolution across vertebrates and the recent molecular advances linking odors to their cognate receptors. Anat Rec, 297:2216–2226, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigations on the interactions of DiAmsar with serum albumins: Insights from spectroscopic and molecular docking techniques
Authors: Hooshyar Zari , Rezanejade Bardajee Ghasem , Kakavand Nahaleh , Khanjari Mohaddeseh , Dianatnejad Nastaran
Published: October 2014

Diamine‐sarcophagine (DiAmsar) binding to human serum albumin (HSA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated under simulative physiological conditions. Fluorescence spectra in combination with Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), UV‐visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and molecular docking method were used in the present work. Experimental results revealed that DiAmsar had an ability to quench the HSA and BSA intrinsic fluorescence through a static quenching mechanism. The Stern–Volmer quenching rate constant (Ksv) was calculated as 0.372 × 103 M‐1 and 0.640 × 103 M‐1 for HSA and BSA, respectively. Moreover, binding constants (Ka), number of binding sites (n) at different temperatures, binding distance (r), and thermodynamic parameters (∆H°, ∆S°, and ∆G°) between DiAmsar and HSA (or BSA) were calculated. DiAmsar exhibited good binding propensity to HSA and BSA with relatively high binding constant values. The positive ∆H° and ∆S° values indicated that the hydrophobic interaction is main force in the binding of the DiAmsar to HSA (or BSA). Furthermore, molecular docking results revealed the possible binding site and the microenvironment around the bond. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
‘In Our Country it's Just Poor People who Ride a Bike’: Place, Displacement and Cycling in Australia
Authors: Law Siew Fang , Karnilowicz Wally
Published: October 2014

This study investigates relationships and characteristics of participation in cycling in Melbourne, Australia, as an expression of place and displacement among persons from culturally and linguistically diverse origins including Asia (i.e. Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Japan) and Arab Africa (i.e. Saudi Arabia, Eritrea and Sudan). Using a mixed‐method approach, results indicated that despite a significant number of migrants to Australia with origins in places where cycling is a common mode of transport and activity, a large number of newly arrived and marginalised migrants and refugees are less likely to engage in cycling. Cyclists' identity, citizenship, social‐economic marginalisation and residential geographic isolation significantly impacted on their cycling in Melbourne. Although cycling is considered accessible, environmentally friendly, healthy and functional, the results indicated that this view may only represent and be shared by selected citizens. In short, culturally and linguistically diverse participants identified cycling behaviour differently in Australia in comparison with cycling in their countries of origin. The results contribute to knowledge in highlighting the extent of displacement facing marginalised communities that evolves in everyday practices of local mobility. The study identified a number of paradoxes facing mainstream policy makers, researchers and cycling advocates who tend to take cycling participation for granted as non‐political and universal. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of Web 2.0 technologies in marketing classes: Key drivers of student acceptance
Authors: Lowe Ben , D'Alessandro Steven , Winzar Hume , Laffey Des , Collier William
Published: October 2014

With the proliferation in Web 2.0 technologies, many marketing educators are experimenting with new teaching and learning tools (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Second Life). The benefits of such technologies are often touted by scholars, and indeed, there is a good deal of evidence to support such a view. However, increasingly, educators are highlighting some of the limitations of technology in the learning environment. To draw parallels with other new product research in marketing, the adoption of new learning technologies is often not so widespread. The literature exhibits inconsistency about the willingness of students to adopt new technology in a learning environment, but no systematic research into the factors that affect technology acceptance yet exists. This research fills a gap in the literature by applying an augmented Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to understand students' future intentions to adopt Twitter, a Web 2.0 technology shown to offer students a variety of benefits. By using partial least squares, the research shows that the main proximal driver of student adoption of Twitter is a utilitarian attitude. Students need to be convinced about ‘what's in it for me’, rather than persuaded about the technology's hedonic benefits. Other affective variables such as an individual's affinity with computers and risk tolerance were also found to be important drivers of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, the TAM's key antecedents. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐Invasive Probing of Nanoparticle Electrostatics
Authors: Tschulik Kristina , Cheng Wei , Batchelor‐McAuley Christopher , Murphy Stuart , Omanović Dario , Compton Richard G.
Published: October 2014

Electrostatic interactions between surface‐charged nanoparticles (NPs) and electrodes studied using existing techniques unavoidably and significantly alter the system being analyzed. Here we present a methodology that allows the probing of unperturbed electrostatic interactions between individual NPs and charged surfaces. The uniqueness of this approach is that stochastic NP impact events are used as the probe. During a single impact, only an attomole of the redox species reacts and is released at the interface during each sensing event. As an example, the effect of electrostatic screening on the reduction of negatively charged indigo NPs at a mercury microelectrode is explored at potentials positive and negative of the potential of zero charge. At suitable overpotentials fully driven electron transfer is seen for all but very low (<0.005 M) ionic strengths. The loss of charge transfer in such dilute electrolytes is unambiguously shown to arise from a reduced driving force for the reaction rather than a reduced population of NPs near the electrode, contradicting popular perceptions. Electrostatics were found not to significantly affect the reactivity of the studied NPs. Importantly, the presented technique is general and can be applied to a wide variety of NPs, including metals, metal oxides and organic compounds.
A Systematic Study on the Stability of Porous Coordination Polymers against Ammonia
Authors: Kajiwara Takashi , Higuchi Masakazu , Watanabe Daisuke , Higashimura Hideyuki , Yamada Teppei , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: October 2014

To establish a strategy for designing porous coordination polymers (PCPs) for ammonia capture, the first systematic study on the stability of PCPs against ammonia was conducted. Various types of PCPs were investigated by comparing their powder XRD patterns before and after treatment with ammonia. Among the PCPs tested, ZIF‐8, MIL‐53(Al), Al‐BTB, MOF‐76(M) (M=Y or Yb), MIL‐101(Cr), and MOF‐74(Mg) were stable up to 350 °C under an ammonia atmosphere at ambient pressure. The origin of the stability of PCPs is discussed from the viewpoint of their components, metal cations, and organic linkers. Furthermore, adsorption isotherm measurements show that the adsorptive behavior of PCPs is independent of their stability.
The First Five‐Membered‐Heterocycle‐Fused Subphthalocyanine Analogues: Chiral Tri(benzo[b]thiopheno)subporphyrazines
Authors: Shang Hong , Zhao Luyang , Qi Dongdong , Chen Chao , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: October 2014

Two tri(benzo[b]thiopheno)subporphyrazine regioisomers with C3 and C1 molecular symmetry have been isolated from the cyclotrimerization of benzo[b]thiophene‐2,3‐dicarbonitrile as the first five‐membered‐heterocycle‐fused subphthalocyanine analogues. Optical resolution of both regioisomers was achieved by using a chiral HPLC technique, affording the first chiral subphthalocyanine analogues.
Modelling in mixed matrix membranes for gas separation
Authors: Rafiq Sikander , Maulud Abdulhalim , Man Zakaria , Mutalib Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul , Ahmad Faizan , Khan Asad Ullah , Khan Asim Laeeq , Ghauri Moinuddin , Muhammad Nawshad
Published: October 2014

Various gas permeation models including Maxwell model, Bruggeman model, Lewis‐Nielson model and Pal model were compared via a modelling approach with the relative permeance of CO2 against published experimental data on silica filled polysulfone/polyimide (PSF/PI) mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). However, none of the tested models were able to predict the data with good accurately. A closer look at the cross‐sectional image by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated that the fillers were actually prolate ellipsoids dispersed within the matrix. Maxwell‐Wagner‐Sillar model was then employed to investigate the prolate effect and it was observed that the optimization curves of maximum packing (φm) and shape factor (n) showed least deviations. The percentage average absolute relative error (AARE %) value for fitted shape factor (nf) was found to be in the range of 1.12–2.17 at 2–10 bar pressure which showed its robustness. A further evaluation from SEM image showed that the shape factor along z‐direction (nz) displayed a minimum deviation of 17.52 % for prolates at 0.102 ± 0.01. By using nz as upper limit and estimated shape factor ne through generalization, the error was reduced to 6.01 %. The AAR % deviation was found in the order of nf <ne < nz,which indicated the importance of shape factor parameter for estimating true CO2 permeance.
A versatile and facile surface modification route based on polydopamine for the growth of MOF films on different substrates
Authors: Zhu He , Zhu Shiping
Published: October 2014

Thin MOF‐5 films were grown from various substrates, which were modified by polydopamine – a bio‐inspired multi‐functional coating. A MOF‐5 mother solution was used. These supports included polypropylene (PP) fibrous membranes, PP porous membranes, and aluminum foils. SEM and XRD were used to characterize the prepared MOF films. The unmodified substrates did not support the growth of MOF films with MOF particles sparsely scattered on the surfaces. In contrast, the polydopamine‐modified substrates were fully covered with a dense layer of MOF crystals. Polydopamine was proven to be very useful in the surface modification that facilitated the growth of MOF films on the substrate materials.
Clinical and pathologic features of familial pancreatic cancer
Authors: Humphris Jeremy L. , Johns Amber L. , Simpson Skye H. , Cowley Mark J. , Pajic Marina , Chang David K. , Nagrial Adnan M. , Chin Venessa T. , Chantrill Lorraine A. , Pinese Mark , Mead R. Scott , Gill Anthony J. , Samra Jaswinder S. , Kench James G. , Musgrove Elizabeth A. , Tucker Katherine M. , Spigelman Allan D. , Waddell Nic , Grimmond Sean M. , Biankin Andrew V. ,   the Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome Initiative
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

Inherited predisposition to pancreatic cancer contributes significantly to its incidence and presents an opportunity for the development of early detection strategies. The genetic basis of predisposition remains unexplained in a high proportion of patients with familial PC (FPC).

METHODS

Clinicopathologic features were assessed in a cohort of 766 patients who had been diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PC). Patients were classified with FPC if they had ≥1 affected first‐degree relatives; otherwise, they were classified with sporadic PC (SPC).

RESULTS

The prevalence of FPC in this cohort was 8.9%. In FPC families with an affected parent‐child pair, 71% in the subsequent generation were 12.3 years younger at diagnosis. Patients with FPC had more first‐degree relatives who had an extrapancreatic malignancy (EPM) (42.6% vs 21.2; P<.0001), particularly melanoma and endometrial cancer, but not a personal history of EPM. Patients with SPC were more likely to be active smokers, have higher cumulative tobacco exposure, and have fewer multifocal precursor lesions, but these were not associated with differences in survival. Long‐standing diabetes mellitus (>2 years) was associated with poor survival in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

FPC represents 9% of PC, and the risk of malignancy in kindred does not appear to be confined to the pancreas. Patients with FPC have more precursor lesions and include fewer active smokers, but other clinicopathologic factors and outcome are similar to those in patients with SPC. Furthermore, some FPC kindreds may exhibit anticipation. A better understanding of the clinical features of PC will facilitate efforts to uncover novel susceptibility genes and the development of early detection strategies. Cancer 2014;120:3669–3675. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Intracallosal neuronal nitric oxide synthase neurons colocalize with neurokinin 1 substance P receptor in the rat
Authors: Barbaresi Paolo , Mensà Emanuela , Lariccia Vincenzo , Desiato Genni , Fabri Mara , Gratteri Santo
Published: October 2014

The corpus callosum (cc) contains nitric oxide (NO)‐producing neurons. Because NO is a potent vasodilator, these neurons could translate neuronal signals into vascular responses that can be detected by functional brain imaging. Substance P (SP), one of the most widely expressed peptides in the CNS, also produces vasomotor responses by inducing calcium release from intracellular stores through its preferred neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor, thus inducing NO production via activation of neuronal NO synthase (nNOS). Single‐ and double‐labeling experiments were performed to establish whether NK1‐immunopositive neurons (NK1IP‐n) are found in the rat cc and the extent of NK1 colocalization with nNOS. NK1IP‐n were seen to constitute a large neuronal population in the cc and had a distribution similar to that of nNOSIP neurons (nNOSIP‐n). NK1IP‐n were numerous in the lateral cc and gradually decreased in the more medial portions, where they were few or absent. Intracallosal NK1IP‐n and their dendritic trees were intensely labeled, allowing classification into four morphological types: bipolar, round, polygonal, and pyramidal. Confocal microscopic examination demonstrated that nearly all NK1IP‐n contained nNOS (96.43%) and that 84.59% of nNOSIP‐n co‐expressed NK1. These data suggest that the majority of intracallosal neurons can release NO as a result of the action of SP. A small proportion of nNOSIP‐n does not contain NK1 and is not activated by SP; these neurons may release NO via alternative mechanisms. The possible mechanisms by which intracallosal neurons release NO are also reviewed. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:589–607, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermoresponsive Polymer Nanoparticles Based on Viologen Cavitands
Authors: Sultanova Elza D. , Krasnova Ekaterina G. , Kharlamov Sergey V. , Nasybullina Gulnaz R. , Yanilkin Vitaly V. , Nizameev Irek R. , Kadirov Marsil K. , Mukhitova Rezeda K. , Zakharova Lucia Y. , Ziganshina Albina Y. , Konovalov Alexander I.
Published: October 2014

In this study, the synthesis of new thermoactive polymer nanoparticles with a hollow and porous structure is reported. The nanoparticles consist of viologen cavitands linked with styrene bridges. The sizes of the nanoparticles and their pores are sensitive to temperature change. The temperature increase results in the swelling of the nanoparticles and in an increase in the permeability of the nanoparticle shell. The nanoparticles are characterized by the data of NMR, IR, and UV spectroscopies, and dynamic and static light scattering (DLS, SLS). The electrochemical behavior of the nanoparticles was investigated with cyclic voltammetry. The nanoparticles can be applied to the temperature‐controlled binding and release of substrates as shown by the fluorescent dye rhodamine B. The nanoparticles encapsulate and release rhodamine B in response to the change in temperature from 25 to 40 °C.