bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Variable and inaccurate serum IgG4 levels resulting from lack of standardization in IgG subclass assay calibration
Authors: Bernasconi Luca , Mundwiler Esther , Regenass Stephan , Aubert Vincent , Hammerer-Lercher Angelika , Heijnen Ingmar 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Background
The quantification of serum IgG4 is commonly performed during the diagnostic workup of IgG4-related diseases (IgG4-RD). According to recent literature, IgG4 values above 1.35 g/L are characteristic of IgG4-RD and support its diagnosis at initial presentation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate comparability and accuracy of the two main commercially available IgG4 assays (Siemens Healthineers and The Binding Site).

Methods
Method comparison was performed for IgG and IgG subclasses using a collective of selected samples with elevated serum IgG4. In addition, we assessed the accuracy of both assays using purified polyclonal and monoclonal IgG4 preparations.

Results
Our data show significant discrepancies between the two IgG subclass assays for the measurement of IgG4 and, to a lesser extent, IgG3.

Conclusions
The lack of standardization between the two main providers of commercially available IgG4 assays leads to significant inter-assay result discrepancies, which might potentially cause unnecessary clinical workup. We conclude that serum IgG4 assay-specific decision limits, and not an assay-independent single cut-off level for IgG4 (e.g. 1.35 g/L), should be used when assessing patients for IgG4-RD. An internationally recognized, certified reference material for IgG subclasses is urgently needed, and assay manufactures are encouraged to undertake steps toward standardization of measurements of IgG4 and other IgG subclasses.
Effects of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction (SC-CO2) on the content of tiliroside in the extracts from Tilia L. flowers
Authors: Pieczykolan Aleksandra , Pietrzak Wioleta , Rój Edward , Nowak Renata 
Published: June 2019

AbstractTiliroside is one of the main flavonoid compounds responsible for a wide spectrum of biological activity of Tilia L. Up to now, several extraction techniques have been reported for extracting this compound from Tilia L. In this work for the first time supercritical carbon dioxide extraction was used for this purpose. Experiments were performed using supercritical carbon dioxide with 5% and 10% of ethanol as solvent, aiming a recovery content of tiliroside, temperature from 45 to 80°C, pressure from 100 to 220 bar and time from 20 to 60 minutes. The statistically generated optimum extraction conditions to obtain the highest content of tiliroside were established as: pressure of 200 bar, temperature 65°C and 45-50 minutes for 5% ethanol concentration and pressure of 220 bar, temperature 65°C and 15 minutes for 10% ethanol concentration.A liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry method (LC-ESI-MS/MS) was used to determine the content of tiliroside in the obtained extracts. In addition, the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) content and antioxidant activity (DPPH• method) were determined.
N-octyl chitosan derivatives as amphiphilic carrier agents for herbicide formulations
Authors: Kamari Azlan , Yusoff Siti Najiah Mohd 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThis study investigates the potential of N-octyl chitosan derivatives, namely N-octyl-O-sulfate chitosan (NOOSC), N-octyl-N-succinyl chitosan (NONSC) and N-octyl-O-glycol chitosan (NOOGC) as amphiphilic carrier agents for atrazine in water-insoluble herbicide formulations. The N-octyl chitosan derivatives were characterised using several analytical instruments such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer, CHNS-O Elemental Analyser (CHNS-O), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Thermogravimetric Analyser (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) and Fluorescence Spectrometer. The encapsulation of atrazine by N-octyl chitosan derivatives was studied using a High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The FTIR spectra of N-octyl chitosan derivatives confirmed the presence of hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups on chitosan backbone. TEM images revealed that N-octyl chitosan derivatives have formed self-aggregates with a spherical shape. The CMC values for N-octyl chitosan derivatives were between 0.06 and 0.09 mg/mL. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) values for amphiphilic chitosan were greater than 90%. The release profiles showed different release behaviour of pure herbicide in solution as compared to atrazine-loaded N-octyl chitosan derivatives. Results suggest that the chitosan derivatives offer promising characteristics that enable them to act as effective carrier agents for atrazine. In conclusion, the application of N-octyl chitosan derivatives could reduce the use of organic solvents in herbicide formulations by 37.5%.
Steam Reforming of Acetic Acid: Response Surface Modelling and Study of Factor Interactions
Authors: Adeniyi Adewale George , Ighalo Joshua O. , Otoikhian Kevin Shegun 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Steam reforming of biomass bio-oil is a technique of producing bio-hydrogen which is an important biofuel. Acetic acid is a major constituent of biomass bio-oil especially its aqueous phase. In this study, the thermodynamic analysis of the steam reforming of acetic acid was considered in conjunction with the utilising of a novel statistical approach. Response surface methodology was used to elucidate possible interactions of the process factors and be used to develop regression models for the prediction of percentage molar yield of each species given a known set of inputs. The correlations were validated for the prediction of % molar composition of the product chemical species in the product stream. These correlations are of great relevance as it affords quick predictions given a known set of factors.
Grundzüge einer Ästhetik des Designs
Authors: Feige Daniel Martin 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
The paper aims at a reconstruction of the specificity of an aesthetic of design and aims at a new understanding of aesthetics taking into account that there are diverse kinds of aesthetic objects, i. e. art, nature and design. I argue that traditional concepts such as beauty and sensuality are not apt if we want to understand what is specific for an aesthetic of design. Instead of proposing another basic concept such as “function”, in the first part of the paper I present a broader systematical outline to incorporate various kinds of aesthetic objects. I draw on Kant, Hegel and Aristotle to understand different kinds of aesthetic objects as aesthetic in a formally different way: In the aesthetic of art, what it means to be aesthetic is formally different from what it means to be aesthetic in the aesthetic of design – I propose to differentiate varying forms of aesthetic practices. In the second part of the paper I look at this idea with regard to design: Whereas works of art develop self-sufficient forms that allow for a reflective self-understanding of those experiencing them, design is bound up in our practical ends. I propose to understand it as an internally aesthetic endeavour insofar as the ends are renegotiated in the design via the forms they are embodied in. Thus the singular embodiment of the practical ends is a major part of what it means to understand a design object.
Inwiefern ist die Phänomenologie eine ‚realistische‘ Philosophie?
Authors: Streubel Thorsten 
Published: June 2019

AbstractIn what way is Phenomenology a realistic philosophy? To give an answer to this difficult question I propose to understand Phenomenology as the project of a universal epistemology and operative realism. This means especially to conceive Phenomenology not as a dogmatic doctrine but as an open (free from any bias) method and methodology. I propose the following solution: in one and the same procedure Phenomenology explores the possibilities and limits of human cognition and thus, at the same time, gives an answer to the question in what way Phenomenology is a realistic philosophy. Therefore the answer to this question can’t be given by a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’; it can only be given in form of an extensive research process and its results. Moreover, one can say that every serious realism must proceed in the same manner: every realistic position has to justify itself by an extensive epistemology
Kurt Gödels philosophische Notizbücher als Denkraum und Exerzitium
Authors: Engelen Eva-Maria 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
The article presents the various functions that notebook-writing had for Kurt Gödel as a philosopher. It is shown in how far he is in the tradition of the ancient hypomnemata and in how far this activity is associated with his individual ethics. Self-admonition and self-perfection as an ethical project do belong for Gödel to the development of a thinker and his philosophy. Some comparisons with personal testimonies of other members of the Vienna Circle are drawn.
Brief aus der Schweiz
Authors: Wild Markus 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
This letter focuses on both the recent history of academic philosophy in Switzerland and its present status. Historically, institutional self-consciousness of philosophy came to life during World War II as a reaction to the isolation of international academic life in Switzerland; moreover, the divide between philosophy in the French part and the German part of the country had to be bridged. One important instrument to achieve this end was the creation of the “Schweizerische Philosophische Gesellschaft” and its “Jahrbuch” (today: “Studia philosophica”) in 1940. At the same time the creation of the journal “Dialectica” (1947), the influence of Joseph Maria Bochensky at the University of Fribourg and Henri Lauener at the University of Berne prepared the ground for the flourishing of analytic philosophy in Switzerland. Today analytic philosophy has established a very successful academic enterprise in Switzerland without suppressing other philosophical traditions. Despite the fact that academic philosophy is somewhat present in the public, there is much more potential for actual philosophical research to enter into public consciousness. The outline sketched in this letter is, of course, a limited account of the recent history and present state of philosophy in Switzerland. There is only very little research on this topic.
Rehabilitation of buildings as an alternative to sustainability in Brazilian constructions
Authors: Qualharini Eduardo Linhares , Oscar Luiz Henrique Costa , Silva Maiane Ramos da 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Rehabilitation and Sustainability complement each other insofar as new uses are defined for the existing constructions, avoiding the disposal and consequent environmental impact of this action. In Brazil, the culture of new construction still prevails, even with the relevant inventory of existing buildings, as indicated in studies conducted in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Dissemination of knowledge of rehabilitation techniques can encourage the development of strategies for the implementation of these practices in brazilian market. Therefore, this paper will try to indicate techniques that may be improved and incorporated into the rehabilitation of Brazilian constructions, aiming aspects of sustainability and reinsertion of contemporary construction in urban heritage.
Waterborne poly(urethane-urea)s films as a sustained release system for ketoconazole
Authors: Vieira Italo Rennan Sousa , Miranda Gisele dos Santos , Ricci-Júnior Eduardo , Delpech Marcia Cerqueira 
Published: June 2019

AbstractKetoconazole (KTZ) was incorporated in waterborne poly(urethane-urea)s dispersions (WPUU), aiming at the production of films for drug sustained release. Dispersions based on poly(ethylene glycol-block-propylene glycol) (PEG-b-PPG) (four monomers with different contents of PEG hydrophilic segments), poly(propylene glycol), isophorone diisocyanate, dime-thylolpropionic acid and hydrazine were produced and characterized by apparent viscosity and average particle size (APS). Cast films-drug interaction was investigated by Fourier-Transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). In vitro dissolution assays were performed in simulated gastrointestinal juices, followed by application of kinetic models. Stable pseudoplastic dispersions, with APS between 27 to 320 nm were obtained. FTIR from KTZ-loaded films indicated interactions between polymer and drug. In vitro release of KTZ was achieved above 80%, notably influenced by PEG-based segments content up to 2 h, followed by sustained release for 8 h. Higuchi’s and first-order equations described the drug kinetic profile, as diffusion of the drug and erosion of the swollen polymer, respectively.
Stimuli-responsive DOX release behavior of cross-linked poly(acrylic acid) nanoparticles
Authors: Nikravan Goolia , Haddadi-Asl Vahid , Salami-Kalajahi Mehdi 
Published: June 2019

AbstractCross-linked poly(acrylic acid) nanoparticles were synthesizedviadistillation precipitation polymerization of acrylic acid and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate withdifferent molar ratios. Spherical nanoparticles with diameters between 75 and 122 nm were synthesized and exhibited temperature and pH-responsive behaviors. However, this behavior was less pronounced for samples with higher cross-linking degrees. The potential of all nanoparticles as carriers for controlled release of doxorubicin (DOX) anti-cancer drug was examined at pH values of 1.2, 5.3 and 7.4. An obvious alleviation in burst release behavior and the amount of cumulative drug release was seen for all nanoparticles as the pH of the medium and the cross-linking degree of nanoparticle increased. Also kinetics of drug release was studied using mathematical models of zero-order, first-order, Higuchi, Korsmeyer-Peppas and Hixson-Crowell, where Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas models best defined the kinetics of drug release.
Synthesis of a DOPO-triazine additive and its flame-retardant effect in rigid polyurethane foam
Authors: Liu Lin , Lv Rui 
Published: June 2019

AbstractA DOPO (9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphen-anthrene-10-oxide)-based halogen-free flame retardant (ODOPM-CYC) was synthesized and incorporated in rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF). The structure of ODOPM-CYC was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR),1H NMR and31P NMR. The effects of ODOPM-CYC on the flame resistance, mechanical performances, thermal properties and cell structure of RPUF were also investigated. The results showed that the incorporation of ODOPM-CYC strikingly enhanced flame retardant properties of RPUF. The flame retarded RPUF acquired a limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of 26% and achieved UL-94 V-0 rating with the phosphorus content of 3 wt%. The smoke production rate (SPR) also showed an obvious decrease and total smoke release (TSR) was 39.8% lower than that of neat RPUF. Besides, the results demonstrated that the incorporation of ODOPM-CYC provided RPUF better thermal stability but did not show any obvious influence on its thermal conductivity.
Enhanced thermal oxidative stability of silicone rubber by using cerium-ferric complex oxide as thermal oxidative stabilizer
Authors: Wu Lei , Zhang Yong 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Cerium (Ce)-ferric (Fe) complex oxides were prepared via a citric acid sol-gel process, and used as thermal oxidative stabilizers for silicone rubber (SR). The oxides were characterized by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The Ce/Fe molar ratio in Ce-Fe complex oxides significantly influenced the thermal oxidative stability of SR. After aging at 300°C for 24 h, SR filled with 4 phr Ce-Fe complex oxide with a Ce/(Ce+Fe) molar ratio of 0.8 (CeFeO-0.8) exhibited excellent thermal oxidative stability, retaining 56.8% and 54.3% of its original tensile strength and elongation at break, respectively. Some Ce3+ and Fe2+ ions were detected in aged SR composites. Ce3+/Ce4+ and Fe2+/Fe3+ molar ratios in SR/CeFeO-0.8 were less than that in SR/CeO2 and SR/Fe2O3 composites, respectively, as detected by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It implies rapid re-oxidations of Fe2+ and Ce3+ occurred in SR/CeFeO-0.8, enhancing the capacity of CeFeO-0.8 to capture radicals during thermal aging.
Preparation of rosin-based polymer microspheres as a stationary phase in high-performance liquid chromatography to separate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and alkaloids
Authors: Wang Zhen , Lei Fu-Hou , Li Wen , Li Peng-Fei , Wang Ting , Qin Li-Ting , Cheng Ge-Ge , Sun Yao , E Yu-Yu , Xie Wen-Bo , Deng Jie 
Published: June 2019

AbstractAcrylpimaric acid ethylene glycol acrylate was used as the cross-linking agent to prepare rosin-based polymer microspheres through membrane emulsification–microsuspension polymerization. The prepared microspheres were used as the stationary phase in high-performance liquid chromatography for the separation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and two analogues of alkaloids. Five PAHs (benzene, naphthalene, fluorene, pyrene, and benzo(e)pyrene) were well separated in the rosin-based polymer column with the resolution (Rs) of 6.088 ± 0.006, 5.759 ± 0.017, 7.019 ± 0.020, and 8.584 ± 0.063. A linear relationship was observed for the carbon numbers of PAHs and lnK as obtained with the equation of ln k = 0.22nc – 2.45, R2 = 0.996 . The rosin-based polymer columns were also employed to separate theophylline–caffeine and camptothecin–10-hydroxy-camptothecin, and the good results were obtained with the Rs of 4.617 ± 0.005 and 2.245 ± 0.049, respectively.
Manipulating the thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of polydicyclopentadiene via tuning the stiffness of the incorporated monomers
Authors: Kuang Jia , Zheng Nan , Liu Chenglin , Zheng Yubin 
Published: June 2019

AbstractThe application of polydicyclopentadiene (polyDCPD) as a high-performance thermosetting resin is often hindered by the simplicity and limitation of the polymer structure, making it unlikely to improve their thermal and dynamic mechanical properties by further optimizing the polymerization conditions. In this study, we developed a copolymer system which consisted of dicyclo-pentadienes and various designed monomers as excellent curing agents. The incorporated monomers bearing different stiffness and rigidity contain two active functional groups at the end of the structures and are capable of reinforcing original polyDCPD. The incorporated monomers notably enhanced the thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of polyDCPD. Besides that, the relationship between the stiffness of the monomer and the thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of polyDCPD was evaluated in detailed. Because of the simplicity and adjustability of copolymerization approach, optimal conditions of the copolymers with best property-reinforcing capability were systemically identified. The optimal materials displayed desired thermal and dynamic mechanical property and markedly outperformed the original polyDCPD.
Trigonella foenum-graceum seed (Fenugreek) hydroalcoholic extract improved the oxidative stress status in a rat model of diabetes-induced memory impairment
Authors: Bafadam Solaiman , Beheshti Farimah , Khodabakhshi Tayebeh , Asghari Amir , Ebrahimi Babak , Sadeghnia Hamid Reza , Mahmoudabady Maryam , Niazmand Saeed , Hosseini Mahmoud 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Background
The antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of Trigonella foenum-graceum have been suggested. The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of the plant seeds and metformin against the diabetes-induced memory impairment were investigated.

Materials and methods
The rats were treated: (1) control, (2) diabetic (3–6) and diabetic rats treated by 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of the plant extract or metformin. The rats were diabetic by streptozotocin (STZ, 55 mg/kg). After the passive avoidance test, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, total thiol (SH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined in the brain.

Results
In the diabetic group, at 3, 24 and 48 h after receiving a shock, the latency to enter the dark room was lower than for the controls (p < 0.001). All doses of the extract and metformin increased the latencies to enter the dark at 3 and 24 h after the shock treatment (p < 0.05–p < 0.001). Additionally, the two higher doses of the extract and metformin increased the latency at 48 h after the shock (p < 0.05–p < 0.001). Diabetes also elevated MDA and NO metabolites, while it reduced thiol, SOD and CAT in the hippocampal and cortical tissues (p < 0.001). Treatment of the diabetic animals by the highest dose of the extract and also metformin reduced the MDA and NO metabolites, while it improved thiols, SOD and CAT (p < 0.01–p < 0.001).

Conclusions
Based on our findings, metformin and the hydro-alcoholic extract from the T. foenum-graceum seed prevented memory deficits resulting from diabetes. Preventing oxidative damage in the brain may at least, in part, be responsible for the positive effects of the extract and metformin.
TMEM100 expression suppresses metastasis and enhances sensitivity to chemotherapy in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhuang Jinfu , Huang Yongjian , Zheng Wei , Yang Shugang , Zhu Guangwei , Wang Jinzhou , Lin Xiaohan , Ye Jianxin 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
The gene encoding transmembrane protein 100 (TMEM100) was first discovered to be transcribed by the murine genome. It has been recently proven that TMEM100 contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma and non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). This study investigates the impact of TMEM100 expression on gastric cancer (GC). TMEM100 expression was remarkably downregulated in GC samples compared to the surrounding non-malignant tissues (p < 0.01). Excessive TMEM100 expression prohibited the migration and invasion of GC cells without influencing their growth. However, TMEM100 knockdown restored their migration and invasion potential. Additionally, TMEM100 expression restored the sensitivity of GC cells to chemotherapeutic drugs such as 5-fluouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin. In terms of TMEM100 modulation, it was revealed that BMP9 rather than BMP10, is the upstream modulator of TM3M100. HIF1α downregulation modulated the impact of TMEM100 on cell migration, chemotherapy sensitivity and invasion in GC cells. Eventually, the in vivo examination of TMEM100 activity revealed that its upregulation prohibits the pulmonary metastasis of GC cells and increases the sensitivity of xenograft tumors to 5-FU treatment. In conclusion, TMEM100 serves as a tumor suppressor in GC and could be used as a promising target for the treatment of GC and as a predictor of GC clinical outcome.
Kotzebues journalliterarisches Nachleben
Authors: Ramtke Nora 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Introduced in response to the assassination of August von Kotzebue, the Carlsbad Decrees of 1819 marked a new era in German press and censorship history. Whereas the historical developments surrounding the Decrees have been well researched, this article traces Kotzebue’s literary afterlife by focusing on a series of fictional letters ostensibly written by the dead author. Drawing on the genre tradition of the dialogues of the dead, this fictional correspondence was published (and occasionally censored) in various periodicals of the early 1820 s and thus explored the manifold ramifications of the new restrictive press law.
Ähnlichkeit und Vergleich
Authors: Sneis Jørgen 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Taking recent discussions on similarity as a paradigm for cultural theory as a starting point this paper proposes to distinguish between overt and covert similarities and surveys the methodological issues involved in determining the manner and degree of similarity. With reference to philosophical action theory it is argued that similarities can be more accurately analyzed when considered the result of a comparison, i. e. when seen in light of the act of comparing.