bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supported Housing in a Small Community: Effects on Consumers, Suggestions for Change
Authors: Leviten-Reid Catherine , Johnson Pamela , Miller Michael
Published: December 2014

We explore the effects of supported housing on the quality of life and recovery of consumers in a rural community, and also explore how this housing approach could be improved. Data were collected from 16 tenants involved in Supported Housing for Individuals with Mental Illness (SHIMI), located in Nova Scotia. The following themes were identified in the analysis: support, security, normalcy and integration, stability and control, and recovery. Suggestions for improvement include fostering a stronger system of supports, coordinating initiatives to reduce the living costs and build the assets of tenants, and having greater consumer involvement in the initiative.
The At Home / Chez Soi Project: Community Partners’ Perspectives on the Implementation of Housing First in Moncton
Authors: Volk Jennifer S. , Yamin Stephanie , Jetté Jonathan , Aubry Tim , Bourque Jimmy
Published: December 2014

The At Home / Chez Soi project, funded by Health Canada through the Mental Health Commission of Canada, involves evaluating the implementation and effectiveness of the Housing First (HF) approach, a complex community-based intervention that addresses homelessness in people with severe and persistent mental illness. This paper examines the perspectives of community partners on the implementation of HF in Moncton, New Brunswick. Engagement varied, but overall, HF was seen as fitting well within the network of existing community resources and filling a long-standing gap in services. Community will for sustaining HF was present, though concerns were expressed about sources for ongoing funding.
Die Haftung bei Handeln des Durchgangsarztes – von „doppelter Zielrichtung“, „Janusköpfigkeit“ und ärztlicher Verantwortung
Authors: Ziegler Ole
Published: December 2014

Der Durchgangsarzt, dem sich ein Unfallverletzter vorstellt, hat bei seinem Handeln gewissermaßen „zwei Hüte“ auf. Zum einen ist er vom zuständigen Unfallversicherungsträger kraft öffentlich-rechtlichen Bescheides bestellt, zum anderen ist er wie jeder andere ärztliche Berufsträger zur standardgerechten Ausübung der Heilkunde verpflichtet. Daher stellt sich bei seinem Handeln die Frage, ob dieses öffentlich-rechtlich oder zivilrechtlich zu beurteilen ist. Von deren Beantwortung hängt ab, ob der Unfallversicherungsträger gem. Art. 34 i.V.m. § 839 BGB oder der Durchgangsarzt persönlich gem. §§ 630a, 280 Abs. 1 BGB bzw. § 823 Abs. 1 BGB für etwaige Fehler haftet. Der BGH meint, die Entscheidung darüber, wer passivlegitimiert sei, sei inhaltlich zu treffen. Die Übernahme der Heilbehandlung durch den Durchgangsarzt stelle eine „Zäsur“ dar. Diese Judikatur vermittelt indes bei näherer Betrachtung lediglich eine Scheinsicherheit. Die nachfolgenden Ausführungen wollen dazu beitragen, anhand von Fallgruppen, orientiert am chronologischen Ablauf einer Behandlung durch den Durchgangsarzt, Licht ins Dickicht zu bringen. Dabei wird sich erweisen, dass sich eine Passivlegitimation des Unfallversicherungsträgers nur in wenigen Fällen begründen lässt.
A phreatic explosion model inferred from a very long period seismic event at Mayon Volcano, Philippines
Authors: Maeda Yuta , Kumagai Hiroyuki , Lacson Rudy , Figueroa Melquiades S. , Yamashina Tadashi , Ohkura Takahiro , Baloloy Alejo V.
Published: December 2014

During a phreatic explosion at Mayon Volcano, Philippines, on 7 May 2013, a very long period seismic event with a peak frequency of 0.4 Hz was observed. Our frequency‐domain waveform inversion solution of the event in the frequency range 0.1–0.6 Hz is consistent with a subhorizontal tensile crack and a vertical single force at a shallow location beneath the summit crater. The source time functions obtained by the waveform inversion are band‐passed forms. We estimated the deconvolved forms of the source time functions (DSTFs), which are source time functions corrected for the effects of the band‐pass filter. The DSTF of the crack can be approximated by an impulse‐type function composed of inflation followed by deflation, whereas the DSTF of the single force can be approximated by a downward impulse. The inflation of the crack may be attributed to boiling of underground water and its deflation can be attributed to discharge of water vapor, whereas the downward force may be understood as the counterforce of the explosion. Our results suggest that only a portion of the crack wall was destroyed by the explosion. We could not find clear precursors in seismic, thermography, geothermal, geodetic, and meteorological data. We present a model of repeated explosions in which an explosion can occur once the fragmented portion of the crack is sealed by precipitation of clay minerals or hydrothermal secondary deposits. This model may explain the absence of clear precursory signals before the 2013 explosion.
Intermediate Filaments
Authors: Cheng Fang , Eriksson John E
Published: December 2014

Intermediate filaments (IFs) represent a diverse group of evolutionary conserved cytoskeletal structures, with context‐, tissue‐ and cell type‐dependent expression patterns and properties. Initially, IFs were assumed to provide only structural reinforcement in cells and tissues. However, recent research has rapidly expanded the knowledge of the functions of IF proteins, and the view of this complex gene family is progressively changing, as a multitude of diseases have been revealed to be associated with IF mutations. The molecular mechanisms underlying these disease conditions reflect disturbances in molecular processes reaching far beyond structural support. IFs are now known to be multifunctional organisers of cellular processes during all stages of life, from development to ageing, with critical functions in both homoeostasis and stress.

Key Concepts:

Intermediate filaments are flexible cytoskeletal and nucleoskeletal structures that assemble hierarchically.

Intermediate filaments comprise a diverse protein family expressed in a differentiation stage‐, cell‐ and tissue‐specific manner.

Intermediate filaments are functionally regulated by posttranslational modifications (PTMs).

Intermediate filaments integrate cell fate control with mechanosensing and three‐dimensional arrangement of cells and tissues.

Intermediate filaments are modulators of cell signalling and transcription.

Intermediate filaments are important cellular stress proteins that help in maintaining the cellular organisation and homoeostasis on injury.

Intermediate filaments act at the border between health and disease as critical guardian biopolymers, the failing of which contributes to a diverse range of pathologies.
Nucleotide Synthesis via Salvage Pathway
Authors: Nyhan William L
Published: December 2014

The biosynthesis of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides takes place overde novosynthetic pathways from small molecules and by salvage pathways from preformed purine or pyrimidine bases or nucleosides. The pathways ofde novosynthesis are the same in animals and microorganisms. Salvage pathways are considerably more energy‐efficient thande novopathways, which require 5 (pyrimidine) or 6 (purine) moles of ATP for each mole of nucleotide produced. Salvage pathways are integral to the cause or treatment of a number of human diseases of purine or pyrimidine metabolism. Among disorders of purine metabolism, the Lesch–Nyhan disease is characterised by overproduction of uric acid, clinical gout, nephropathy, neurologic disease, and unusual self‐injurious behaviours.

Key Concepts:

Salvage of purines is catalysed by adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APRT) and hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT).

Pyrimidine salvage is catalysed by thymidine kinase.

Pyrimidine salvage is effective in the treatment of orotic aciduria, a disorder of pyrimidine nucleotide synthesis.

Deficiency of APRT leads to renal calculi.

Deficiency of HGPRT is the cause of Lesch–Nyhan disease.
Varicella Zoster: Virus and Disease
Authors: Dotzler Steven M , Grose Charles
Published: December 2014

Varicella‐zoster virus
(VZV) is a human‐specific virus that causes varicella (chickenpox) upon primary infection of children. During the convalescent stage of infection, VZV establishes latency in dorsal root ganglia of the nervous system and reactivates decades later in adults, causing herpes zoster (shingles). In the early 1970s, a live attenuated varicella vaccine was developed; subsequent varicella vaccination has greatly reduced VZV‐related hospitalisations and fatalities, although VZV remains commonplace in areas of the world that have not achieved high degrees of vaccination. VZV research continues to study viral mechanisms and pathogenesis. Recent experiments have discovered that VZV induces the cellular process called autophagy, which can aid in prolonging cell lifespan. Phylogenetic analyses of sequenced genomes indicate that the VZV genome originated in Africa and has coevolved with its human hosts during their migration out‐of‐Africa throughout the world.

Key Concepts:

Varicella‐zoster virus
causes chickenpox initially, but remains latent in the body and can be reactivated, usually in the elderly, to cause the infection known as shingles.

VZV is one of nine human herpesviruses; in 2012,
human herpesvirus type 6
was separated into two species called A and B. VZV is evolutionarily closely most related to the
herpes simplex virus
(HSV); however, it causes chickenpox and shingles and cannot cause herpes.

The double‐stranded DNA genome of VZV has been fully sequenced and has more than 70 open reading frames that encode nearly 70 unique proteins.

A highly geometrical and complex layer of proteins known as the capsid serves as a protective housing for the viral DNA; the capsid is then covered by a tegument and a lipid bilayer called the envelope.

Glycoproteins – proteins with bound sugars – are embedded within the envelope and serve functions from attachment to the host cell and cell‐to‐cell spread of the infection.

VZV is thought to have originated in Africa and has spread throughout the world by coevolving with its human host.

VZV is spread only during active infection; among the human herpesviruses, VZV is the only one that is spread by aerosolizing into airborne particles.

Autophagy, the recycling of damaged organelles, is induced by VZV as a method of prolonging cell lifespan, which gives the virus more time to replicate.

A live attenuated varicella vaccine was developed in the early 1970s and has dramatically reduced the number of VZV‐related hospitalisations and fatalities.

Antiviral drugs such as aciclovir are very effective in the treatment of VZV infections.
Molecular Genetics of Gitelman Syndrome
Authors: Colussi Giacomo , Tedeschi Silvana , Bettinelli Alberto , Syrén Marie Louise
Published: December 2014

Gitelman syndrome (OMIM263800) is an autosomal recessive renal tubular disorder due to loss‐of‐function mutations ofSLC12A3gene, encoding the thiazide‐inhibitable, electroneutral Na+‐Cl−cotransporter (NCC) of the distal convoluted tubule. Clinical consequences include chronic normotensive hypokalemic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia, hypocalciuria, polyuria/nocturia, chronic asthenia, muscular cramps, chondrocalcinosis and rarely cardiac arrhythmias.

Impaired reabsorption of glomerular filtrate through NCC drives preferential reabsorption of Na+in more distal tubular segments via the ‘electrogenic’ channel ENaC, enhancing tubular secretion of potassium and protons, explaining the hypokalemic alkalosis.

There exists wide variability and severity of symptoms between subjects, ranging from an almost asymptomatic disease to a severely disabling one. More than 400SLC12A3mutations have been so far described, evenly distributed along the protein sequence and without any hot spot. Mutation detection rate actually is approximately 80–90%. There are no genotype–phenotype correlations.

Commonly considered a benign condition, Gitelman syndrome may be associated with reduced quality of life, increased medicalisation and high hospitalisation rate.

Key Concepts:

Gitelman syndrome is the clinical and biochemical manifestation of impaired function of the electroneutral Na‐Cl cotransporter of the renal distal convoluted tubule, the target of the thiazide class of diuretics.

Homozygous and compound heterozygous loss‐of‐function mutations of theSLC12A3gene cause the disease; more than 400 inactivating mutations (mostly missense mutations) have been identified, without any preferential target.

Main biochemical abnormalities include hypokalemia, mild metabolic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia, hyperreninemia and hypocalciuria.

Clinical manifestations include muscular cramps/tetanic crisis, asthenia, polyuria/nocturia and chondrocalcinosis; normal/low blood pressure is an important feature in the differential diagnosis with hypertensive hypokalemic disorders.

Gitelman syndrome cannot be presently cured, and therapy aims at correcting plasma potassium and possibly magnesium levels with supplemental oral potassium and magnesium, aldosterone receptor antagonists and the sodium channel blocker amiloride. Intravenous infusions of potassium and magnesium are needed in acute crisis and stressful contexts.

Long‐term prognosis appears good and long‐term renal function preserved, but quality of life may be somehow impaired and medicalisation/hospitalisation rate increased compared to the general population.
Exploring the Relationship Between Mathematics Anxiety and Performance: An Eye‐Tracking Approach
Authors: Hunt Thomas E. , Clark‐Carter David , Sheffield David
Published: December 2014

The mechanisms underpinning the relationship between math anxiety and arithmetic performance are not fully understood. This study used an eye‐tracking approach to measure a range of eye movements of 78 undergraduate students in response to performance on an arithmetic verification task. Results demonstrated a significant positive relationship between self‐reported math anxiety and response time, indicating reduced processing efficiency. Analysis of eye‐movement data reinforced the utility of an eye‐tracking approach in studying arithmetic performance; specific digit fixations, dwell time, saccades, and regressions all significantly predicted response time. Furthermore, findings highlighted significant positive correlations between math anxiety and fixations, dwell time, and saccades. Despite there being little evidence that eye movements mediate the math anxiety‐to‐performance relationship, relationships observed between math anxiety and eye movements provide a useful starting point for research using an eye‐tracking methodology in studying math anxiety and performance; the present findings suggest future work should focus on calculation strategy. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contribution of the Subjective Components of the Disease Activity Score to the Response to Biologic Treatment in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Jurgens Maud S. , Overman Cécile L. , Jacobs Johannes W. G. , Geenen Rinie , Cuppen Bart V. J. , Marijnissen Anne C. A. , Bijlsma Johannes W. J. , Welsing Paco M. J. , Lafeber Floris P. J. G. , van Laar Jacob M. ,   on behalf of the Utrecht Arthritis Cohort Study Group
Published: December 2014

Objective

A significant proportion of patients with rheumatoid arthritis do not respond adequately to biologic treatment. We hypothesized that lack of response to (biologic) disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is high in patients in whom the subjective, patient‐reported component of the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) is high at baseline. The primary aim of our present study was to investigate the contribution of the more subjective versus the objective components of the DAS28 to response to biologic agents in RA patients, as well as the changes in this contribution over time. The secondary aim was to examine whether the value of this subjective contribution at baseline affects the response to treatment.

Methods

The DAS28‐P (the subjective components of the DAS28 relative to the total DAS28) was calculated. Patients were derived from the computer‐assisted Management in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Trial‐II and the Biologicals and Outcome Compared and Predicted in Utrecht Region in Rheumatoid Arthritis Study. Ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

The DAS28‐P score at baseline was not associated with the level of response according to European League Against Rheumatism criteria at 3 months. Overall, a significant reduction in the DAS28‐P score was observed 3 months after start of treatment, showing a greater reduction of the combined subjective components in good responders.

Conclusion

The results reject the hypothesis that the lack of response to biologic DMARDs is especially high in patients in whom the patient‐reported component of the DAS28 is high at baseline; these subjective components are not linked to treatment response.
Endoscopic direct vessel closure in carotid artery injury
Authors: Padhye Vikram , Murphy Jae , Bassiouni Ahmed , Valentine Rowan , Wormald Peter‐John
Published: December 2014

Background

Internal carotid artery (ICA) injury represents one of the most challenging management scenarios for the endoscopic skull base surgeon. Techniques developed through use of an animal model of carotid injury have shown direct vessel closure techniques to be effective in gaining hemostasis and preventing subsequent complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the novel AnastoClip vessel closure system in ICA injury.

Methods

Nine sheep underwent ICA dissection/isolation followed by the artery placement within a modified “sinus model otorhino neuro trainer” (SIMONT) model. Standardized linear injuries were made and treated endoscopically with the AnastoClip device. Specific outcome measures included attainment of primary hemostasis, procedure time, blood loss, pseudoaneurysm formation and carotid patency on follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

Primary hemostasis was achieved in all cases. No instances of secondary bleeding. Procedure times averaged 5 minutes and 25 seconds. Average blood loss was 146 mL. All 9 sheep reached the 3‐month end point. Eight showed normal carotid flow on MRI, with 1 case of pseudoaneurysm.

Conclusion

Direct vessel closure is an effective endoscopic technique in ICA injury. It allows for visual confirmation of hemostasis and carotid flow and permits the surgeon to continue with surgery despite the complication. The novel design of the AnastoClip can maintain normal vessel patency as well as accommodate pulsatile flow.
Ionic Liquids as Precursors for Efficient Mesoporous Iron‐Nitrogen‐Doped Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Li Zelong , Li Guanglan , Jiang Luhua , Li Jinlei , Sun Gongquan , Xia Chungu , Li Fuwei
Published: December 2014

A ferrocene‐based ionic liquid (Fe‐IL) is used as a metal‐containing feedstock with a nitrogen‐enriched ionic liquid (N‐IL) as a compatible nitrogen content modulator to prepare a novel type of non‐precious‐metal–nitrogen–carbon (M‐N‐C) catalysts, which feature ordered mesoporous structure consisting of uniform iron oxide nanoparticles embedded into N‐enriched carbons. The catalyst Fe10@NOMC exhibits comparable catalytic activity but superior long‐term stability to 20 wt % Pt/C for ORR with four‐electron transfer pathway under alkaline conditions. Such outstanding catalytic performance is ascribed to the populated Fe (Fe3O4) and N (N2) active sites with synergetic chemical coupling as well as the ordered mesoporous structure and high surface area endowed by both the versatile precursors and the synthetic strategy, which also open new avenues for the development of M‐N‐C catalytic materials.
Decarbonylative Radical Coupling of α‐Aminoacyl Tellurides: Single‐Step Preparation of γ‐Amino and α,β‐Diamino Acids and Rapid Synthesis of Gabapentin and Manzacidin A
Authors: Nagatomo Masanori , Nishiyama Hayato , Fujino Haruka , Inoue Masayuki
Published: December 2014

A new radical‐based coupling method has been developed for the single‐step generation of various γ‐amino acids and α,β‐diamino acids from α‐aminoacyl tellurides. Upon activation by Et3B and O2 at ambient temperature, α‐aminoacyl tellurides were readily converted into α‐amino carbon radicals through facile decarbonylation, which then reacted intermolecularly with acrylates or glyoxylic oxime ethers. This mild and powerful method was effectively incorporated into expeditious synthetic routes to the pharmaceutical agent gabapentin and the natural product (−)‐manzacidin A.
A Method for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization Enhancement of Membrane Proteins
Authors: Smith Adam N. , Caporini Marc A. , Fanucci Gail E. , Long Joanna R.
Published: December 2014

Dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) magic‐angle spinning (MAS) solid‐state NMR (ssNMR) spectroscopy has the potential to enhance NMR signals by orders of magnitude and to enable NMR characterization of proteins which are inherently dilute, such as membrane proteins. In this work spin‐labeled lipid molecules (SL‐lipids), when used as polarizing agents, lead to large and relatively homogeneous DNP enhancements throughout the lipid bilayer and to an embedded lung surfactant mimetic peptide, KL4. Specifically, DNP MAS ssNMR experiments at 600 MHz/395 GHz on KL4 reconstituted in liposomes containing SL‐lipids reveal DNP enhancement values over two times larger for KL4 compared to liposome suspensions containing the biradical TOTAPOL. These findings suggest an alternative sample preparation strategy for DNP MAS ssNMR studies of lipid membranes and integral membrane proteins.
Synergetic Spin Crossover and Fluorescence in One‐Dimensional Hybrid Complexes
Authors: Wang Chun‐Feng , Li Ren‐Fu , Chen Xue‐Yuan , Wei Rong‐Jia , Zheng Lan‐Sun , Tao Jun
Published: December 2014

Hybrid materials integrated with a variety of physical properties, such as spin crossover (SCO) and fluorescence, may show synergetic effects that find applications in many fields. Herein we demonstrate a promising post‐synthetic approach to achieve such materials by grafting fluorophores (1‐pyrenecarboxaldehyde and Rhodamine B) on one‐dimensional SCO FeII structures. The resulting hybrid materials display expected one‐step SCO behavior and fluorescent properties, in particular showing a coupling between the transition temperature of SCO and the temperature where the fluorescent intensity reverses. Consequently, synergetic effect between SCO and fluorescence is incorporated into materials despite different fluorophores. This study provides an effective strategy for the design and development of novel magnetic and optical materials.
Heterogeneous catalytic synthesis of poly(butylene succinate) by attapulgite‐supported Sn catalyst
Authors: Lai Shiquan , Gao Yan , Yue Li
Published: December 2014

An attapulgite‐supported Sn catalyst (Sn‐palgorskite) was successfully prepared by ion‐exchange co‐impregnation method. The catalytic effect of Sn‐attapulgite on the melt polycondensation reaction of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) was examined by comparing with that of anhydrous SnCl2 and a blank experiment. The structures and properties of the PBS products synthesized with the three catalytic systems were characterized by means of Fourier transform‐infrared spectra (FT‐IR), viscosity measurements, wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WARD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Meanwhile, the acidolysis degradation behaviors of the PBS samples were also studied. It was found that the intrinsic viscosities and the number‐average molecular weights of the PBS were remarkably increased under the catalysis of Sn‐attapulgite, further leading to an increase in the decomposition temperature, the crystallization temperature, and the viscous flow activation energy, while a decrease in the melting temperature, the relative degree of crystallinity, and the rate of degradation. Additionally, no significant differences were observed in the crystal structures of all the samples, regardless of the reaction system with or without catalyst. The experiment results confirmed that Sn‐attapulgite was an effective heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of PBS, and the recycled Sn‐attapulgite still exhibited higher activity than anhydrous SnCl2 under identical reaction conditions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41729.
Sialic Acid–Binding Immunoglobulin‐Type Lectin H–Positive Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Drive Spontaneous Lupus‐like Disease Development in B6.Nba2 Mice
Authors: Davison Laura M. , Jørgensen Trine N.
Published: December 2014

Objective

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) often present with elevated levels of interferon‐α (IFNα) in serum. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have been suggested to be the primary source of IFNα in SLE due to their capacity to produce high levels of IFNα. During viral infection, a subset of pDCs expressing sialic acid–binding immunoglobulin‐type lectin H (Siglec H) produces the majority of pDC‐derived IFNα. The aim of this study was to provide evidence that Siglec H–positive pDCs are pathogenic in the IFNα‐dependent B6.Nba2 mouse model of lupus.

Methods

B6.Nba2 blood dendritic cell antigen 2 (BDCA‐2)–diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR)–transgenic (Tg) mice were treated intraperitoneally with DT 3 times weekly starting at 4 weeks or 12 weeks of age and analyzed at 12 weeks and 18 weeks of age, respectively. Lupus‐like disease development was measured by the presence of elevated levels of autoantibodies in serum (as determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay), increased expression of IFN‐inducible genes (as determined by real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction), increased IgG immune complex deposition in kidney glomeruli (as determined by immunofluorescence staining), spontaneous lymphocyte activation, and differentiation of B cells into antibody‐producing plasma cells (as determined by flow cytometry).

Results

B6.Nba2 mice in which Siglec H–positive pDCs were depleted for 6–8 weeks displayed reduced levels of IFNα‐induced gene transcripts and decreased anti‐chromatin autoantibody levels in serum, and significantly fewer activated splenic T cells and B cells, germinal center B cells, follicular helper T cells, and splenic plasma cells. In 18‐week‐old mice, IgG immune complex deposition in kidney glomeruli was similarly reduced.

Conclusion

The development of lupus‐like disease in congenic B6.Nba2 mice depends on Siglec H–positive pDCs. We suggest that depletion of Siglec H–positive pDCs represents a novel cellular target in SLE.
Entwicklung eines neuartigen dynamischen Windsogprüfstandes für Bauteilprüfungen
Authors: Fouad Nabil A. , Richter Torsten , Vogel Tobias
Published: December 2014

Bauwerke können infolge Wind‐ und Böenbeanspruchungen enormen Belastungen ausgesetzt werden. Schadensfälle aus der Vergangenheit zeigten, dass selbst schwere Fassadenaufbauten beschädigt oder zum Herabstürzen gebracht werden können. Um von planerischer Seite die nötige Sicherheit zu schaffen, ist es daher sinnvoll, Fassaden‐ und Außenwandaufbauten vor ihrem Praxiseinsatz umfangreich auf ihre Windsogwiderstandsfähigkeit zu prüfen. Bisher dominieren hierzu Prüfverfahren, die Windlasten eher statisch simulieren können. Zur Prüfung von Konstruktionen auf realistische Böenbelastungen wurde am Institut für Bauphysik der Leibniz Universität Hannover ein dynamischer Windsogversuchsstand entwickelt und im Praxisverhalten getestet. Mit den zu erreichenden Unterdrücken von maximal 20 kPa ist der Versuchstand in der Lage, Windlasten an Prüfkörpern auch mit dynamischem Verhalten zu simulieren. Der Versuchsstand zeichnet sich hierbei durch eine hohe Wiederholgenauigkeit aus, die Messwerte werden lückenlos und mit einer hohen Abtastrate dokumentiert.

Dynamic wind uplift test station at the “Institut für Bauphysik”, Leibniz University Hanover. From everyday experience it is known that structures induced by suction and gust loads may be exposed to enormous stress. Damages occurred in the past prove that heavy facade systems can be partly destroyed or even be forced to crashing down.

To create the necessary safety it is appropriate to test the wind suction resistance of façade systems and external wall constructions before using them in practice. However, current test methods dominate which simulate wind loads rather static than dynamic. Therefore, the “Institut für Bauphysik” of the Leibniz University Hanover has developed a dynamical wind suction test station which is able to examine constructions regarding their dynamical wind suction resistance. Thereby testing the dynamic wind suction resistance means the abrupt and rapid applying of vacuum pressure on the tested construction, holding the vacuum pressure for a specific time and relieving the pressure on the specimen.
Cleft palate: A clinical review
Authors: Shkoukani Mahdi A. , Lawrence Lauren A. , Liebertz Daniel J. , Svider Peter F.
Published: December 2014

Orofacial clefts, including cleft palates (CP), are one of the most common birth defects. CP have a multiplicity of effects on the individual and society in terms of economic costs, loss of productivity, psychosocial effects, and increased morbidity and mortality at all stages of life. Embryological development of the palate is well delineated, with developments in the last decade regarding the biomolecular processes involved. Etiology is complex, involving a number of genetic and environmental factors. Various techniques can be employed for the repair of CP, depending on whether the cleft is of the primary or secondary palate, the width of the cleft, whether lengthening of the palate is necessary, and with regard to concerns of disruption of midfacial growth. All surgical techniques have the goals of restoring functional speech, swallowing, and aesthetics. A multidisciplinary team is necessary for the long‐term pre‐ and postoperative care of CP patients to handle complications, associated anomalies, and to optimize function and quality of life. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 102:333–342, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Knockdown of platinum‐induced growth differentiation factor 15 abrogates p27‐mediated tumor growth delay in the chemoresistant ovarian cancer model A2780cis
Authors: Meier Julia C. , Haendler Bernard , Seidel Henrik , Groth Philip , Adams Robert , Ziegelbauer Karl , Kreft Bertolt , Beckmann Georg , Sommer Anette , Kopitz Charlotte
Published: December 2014

Molecular mechanisms underlying the development of resistance to platinum‐based treatment in patients with ovarian cancer remain poorly understood. This is mainly due to the lack of appropriate in vivo models allowing the identification of resistance‐related factors. In this study, we used human whole‐genome microarrays and linear model analysis to identify potential resistance‐related genes by comparing the expression profiles of the parental human ovarian cancer model A2780 and its platinum‐resistant variant A2780cis before and after carboplatin treatment in vivo. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) was identified as one of five potential resistance‐related genes in the A2780cis tumor model. Although A2780‐bearing mice showed a strong carboplatin‐induced increase of GDF15 plasma levels, the basal higher GDF15 plasma levels of A2780cis‐bearing mice showed no further increase after short‐term or long‐term carboplatin treatment. This correlated with a decreased DNA damage response, enhanced AKT survival signaling and abrogated cell cycle arrest in the carboplatin‐treated A2780cis tumors. Furthermore, knockdown of GDF15 in A2780cis cells did not alter cell proliferation but enhanced cell migration and colony size in vitro. Interestingly, in vivo knockdown of GDF15 in the A2780cis model led to a basal‐enhanced tumor growth, but increased sensitivity to carboplatin treatment as compared to the control‐transduced A2780cis tumors. This was associated with larger necrotic areas, a lobular tumor structure and increased p53 and p16 expression of the carboplatin‐treated shGDF15‐A2780cis tumors. Furthermore, shRNA‐mediated GDF15 knockdown abrogated p27 expression as compared to control‐transduced A2780cis tumors. In conclusion, these data show that GDF15 may contribute to carboplatin resistance by suppressing tumor growth through p27. These data show that GDF15 might serve as a novel treatment target in women with platinum‐resistant ovarian cancer.
Biogeographic Variation of Foliar n‐Alkanes of Juniperus communis var. saxatilisPallas from the Balkans
Authors: Rajčević Nemanja , Janaćković Pedja , Dodoš Tanja , Tešević Vele , Marin Petar D.
Published: December 2014

The composition of the epicuticular n‐alkanes isolated from the leaves of ten populations of Juniperus communis L. var. saxatilis Pallas from central (continental) and western (coastal) areas of the Balkan Peninsula was characterized by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses. In the leaf waxes, 14 n‐alkane homologues with chain‐lengths ranging from C22 to C35 were identified. All samples were dominated by n‐tritriacontane (C33), but differences in two other dominant n‐alkanes allowed separating the coastal from the continental populations. Several statistical methods (ANOVA, principal component, discriminant, and cluster analyses as well as the Mantel test) were deployed to analyze the diversity and variability of the epicuticular‐leaf‐n‐alkane patterns of the ten natural populations of J. communis var. saxatilis and their relation to different geographic and bioclimatic parameters. Cluster analysis showed a high correlation of the leaf‐n‐alkane patterns with the geographical distribution of the investigated samples, differentiating the coastal from the continental populations of this taxon. Several bioclimatic parameters related to aridity were highly correlated with this differentiation.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Dioxygen Pathways through Mini Singlet Oxygen Generator (miniSOG), a Genetically Encoded Marker and Killer Protein
Authors: Pietra Francesco
Published: December 2014

In this work, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the permeation of proteins by small gases of biological significance have been extended from gas carrier, sensor, and enzymatic proteins to genetically encoded tags and killer proteins. To this end, miniSOG was taken as an example of current high interest, using a biased form of MD, called random‐acceleration MD. Various egress gates and binding pockets for dioxygen, as an indistinguishable mimic of singlet dioxygen, were found on both above and below the isoalloxazine plane of the flavin mononucleotide cofactor in miniSOG. Of such gates and binding pockets, those lying within two opposite cones, coaxial with a line normal to the isoalloxazine plane, and with the vertex at the center of such a plane are those most visited by the escaping gas molecule. Out of residues most capable of quenching 1O2, Y30, lying near the base of one such a cone, and H85, near the base of the opposite cone, are held to be most responsible for the reduced quantum yield of 1O2 with folded miniSOG with respect to free flavin mononucleotide in solution.
The Origin of Life: A Problem of History, Chemistry, and Evolution
Authors: Ma Wentao
Published: December 2014

The origin of life is a field full of controversies, not only because of our vague understanding concerning the relevant issues, but also, perhaps more often, owing to our dim conceptual framework throughout the whole field. To improve this situation, an in‐depth conceptual dissection is presented here. It is elucidated that, at its core, the origin of life has three aspects. The facts involved in the process are taken as the historical aspect, which is destined to be uncertain and often irrelevant to debate regarding details. The rules involved include two distinct aspects: chemical mechanisms operated in the whole process, while evolutionary mechanisms joined in only after the emergence of the first Darwinian entities – and then accounted for the subsequent buildup of complexity (this cannot be explained solely by natural selection). Basically, we can ask about the possibility of any assumed event in the origin of life: ‘Is it evolutionarily plausible, chemically feasible, and historically likely?’ Clues from any of the three aspects may be quite valuable in directing our explorations on the other two. This conceptual dissection provides a clearer context for the field, which may even be more useful than any sort of specific research.
Crystal Structure of HydG from Carboxydothermus hydrogenoformans: A Trifunctional [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Maturase
Authors: Nicolet Yvain , Pagnier Adrien , Zeppieri Laura , Martin Lydie , Amara Patricia , Fontecilla‐Camps Juan C.
Published: December 2014

The structure of the radical S‐adenosyl‐L‐methionine (SAM) [FeFe]‐hydrogenase maturase HydG involved in CN−/CO synthesis is characterized by two internal tunnels connecting its tyrosine‐binding pocket with the external medium and the C‐terminal Fe4S4 cluster‐containing region. A comparison with a tryptophan‐bound NosL structure suggests that substrate binding causes the closing of the first tunnel and, along with mutagenesis studies, that tyrosine binds to HydG with its amino group well positioned for H‐abstraction by SAM. In this orientation the dehydroglycine (DHG) fragment caused by tyrosine CαCβ bond scission can readily migrate through the second tunnel towards the C‐terminal domain where both CN− and CO are synthesized. Our HydG structure appears to be in a relaxed state with its C‐terminal cluster CysX2CysX22Cys motif exposed to solvent. A rotation of this domain coupled to Fe4S4 cluster assembly would bury its putatively reactive unique Fe ion thereby allowing it to interact with DHG.
Total Syntheses and In Vivo Quantitation of Novel Neurofuran and Dihomo‐isofuran Derived from Docosahexaenoic Acid and Adrenic Acid
Authors: de la Torre Aurélien , Lee Yiu Yiu , Mazzoni Attilio , Guy Alexandre , Bultel‐Poncé Valérie , Durand Thierry , Oger Camille , Lee Jetty Chung‐Yung , Galano Jean‐Marie
Published: December 2014

Neurofurans (NeuroFs) and dihomo‐isofurans (dihomo‐IsoFs) are produced in vivo by non‐enzymatic free‐radical pathways from docosahexaenoic and adrenic acids, respectively. As these metabolites are produced in minute amounts, their analyses in biological samples remain challenging. Syntheses of neurofuran and dihomo‐isofurans described are based on a pivotal strategy, thanks to an enantiomerically enriched intermediate, which allowed, for the first time, access to both families: the alkenyl and enediol. Owing to this formation, quantitation of specific NeuroF and dihomo‐IsoFs in biological samples was attainable.
Magnetically Recoverable Efficient Demulsifier for Water‐in‐Oil Emulsions
Authors: Chen Yuning , Lin Xin , Liu Na , Cao Yingze , Lu Fei , Xu Liangxin , Feng Lin
Published: December 2014

A magnetically recoverable and efficient demulsifier is shown to demulsify surfactant‐stable water‐in‐oil emulsions rapidly. Ferroferric oxide (Fe3O4) particles are firstly coated by amorphous silicon dioxide (SiO2), and further functionalized with a commercial dodecyltrimethoxysilane solution (KH‐1231). Owing to their paramagnetic properties, the demulsifier particles can be easily recovered with a magnet. Upon addition of demulsifier to emulsions and subsequent sonification, the supernatant becomes completely transparent and no droplets are observed in the micrographs. It was also demonstrated that this demulsifier is effective for emulsions prepared with a variety of oils. Moreover, magnetically recovered demulsifier can be recycled after simple treatment without any decline of efficiency. This work presents a feasible approach for demulsifying water‐in‐oil emulsions, and has potential value in industry.
Electrifying White Biotechnology: Engineering and Economic Potential of Electricity‐Driven Bio‐Production
Authors: Harnisch Falk , Rosa Luis F. M. , Kracke Frauke , Virdis Bernardino , Krömer Jens O.
Published: December 2014

The production of fuels and chemicals by electricity‐driven bio‐production (i.e., using electric energy to drive biosynthesis) holds great promises. However, this electrification of white biotechnology is particularly challenging to achieve because of the different optimal operating conditions of electrochemical and biochemical reactions. In this article, we address the technical parameters and obstacles to be taken into account when engineering microbial bioelectrochemical systems (BES) for bio‐production. In addition, BES‐based bio‐production processes reported in the literature are compared against industrial needs showing that a still large gap has to be closed. Finally, the feasibility of BES bio‐production is analysed based on bulk electricity prices. Using the example of lysine production from sucrose, we demonstrate that there is a realistic market potential as cost savings of 8.4 % (in EU) and 18.0 % (in US) could be anticipated, if the necessary yields can be obtained.
Electrolytes Based on TEMPO–Co Tandem Redox Systems Outperform Single Redox Systems in Dye‐sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Cong Jiayan , Hao Yan , Boschloo Gerrit , Kloo Lars
Published: December 2014

A new TEMPO–Co tandem redox system with TEMPO and Co(bpy)32+/3+ has been investigated for the use in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A large open‐circuit voltage (VOC) increase, from 862 mV to 965 mV, was observed in the tandem redox system, while the short‐circuit current density (JSC) was maintained. The conversion efficiency was observed to increase from 7.1 % for cells containing the single Co(bpy)32+/3+ redox couple, to 8.4 % for cells containing the TEMPO–Co tandem redox system. The reason for the increase in VOC and overall efficiency is ascribed to the involvement of partial regeneration of the sensitizing dye molecules by TEMPO. This assumption can be verified through the observed much faster regeneration dynamics exhibited in the presence of the tandem system. Using the tandem redox system, the faster recombination problem of the single TEMPO redox couple is resolved and the mass‐transport of the metal‐complex‐based electrolyte is also improved. This TEMPO–Co tandem system is so far the most effienct tandem redox electrolyte reported not involving iodine. The current results show a promising future for tandem system as replacements for single redox systems in electrolytes for DSSCs.
Decoupling HZSM‐5 Catalyst Activity from Deactivation during Upgrading of Pyrolysis Oil Vapors
Authors: Wan Shaolong , Waters Christopher , Stevens Adam , Gumidyala Abhishek , Jentoft Rolf , Lobban Lance , Resasco Daniel , Mallinson Richard , Crossley Steven
Published: December 2014

The independent evaluation of catalyst activity and stability during the catalytic pyrolysis of biomass is challenging because of the nature of the reaction system and rapid catalyst deactivation that force the use of excess catalyst. In this contribution we use a modified pyroprobe system in which pulses of pyrolysis vapors are converted over a series of HZSM‐5 catalysts in a separate fixed‐bed reactor controlled independently. Both the reactor‐bed temperature and the Si/Al ratio of the zeolite are varied to evaluate catalyst activity and deactivation rates independently both on a constant surface area and constant acid site basis. Results show that there is an optimum catalyst‐bed temperature for the production of aromatics, above which the production of light gases increases and that of aromatics decrease. Zeolites with lower Si/Al ratios give comparable initial rates for aromatics production, but far more rapid catalyst deactivation rates than those with higher Si/Al ratios.
Emergence timing and fitness consequences of variation in seed oil composition in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Pelc Sandra E. , Linder C. Randal
Published: December 2014

Early seedling emergence can increase plant fitness under competition. Seed oil composition (the types and relative amounts of fatty acids in the oils) may play an important role in determining emergence timing and early growth rate in oilseeds. Saturated fatty acids provide more energy per carbon atom than unsaturated fatty acids but have substantially higher melting points (when chain length is held constant). This characteristic forms the basis of an adaptive hypothesis that lower melting point seeds (lower proportion of saturated fatty acids) should be favored under colder germination temperatures due to earlier germination and faster growth before photosynthesis, while at warmer germination temperatures, seeds with a higher amount of energy (higher proportion of saturated fatty acids) should be favored. To assess the effects of seed oil melting point on timing of seedling emergence and fitness, high‐ and low‐melting point lines from a recombinant inbred cross of Arabidopsis thaliana were competed in a fully factorial experiment at warm and cold temperatures with two different density treatments. Emergence timing between these lines was not significantly different at either temperature, which aligned with warm temperature predictions, but not cold temperature predictions. Under all conditions, plants competing against high‐melting point lines had lower fitness relative to those against low‐melting point lines, which matched expectations for undifferentiated emergence times.
Native lipase dissolved in hydrophilic green solvents: A versatile 2‐phase reaction system for high yield ester synthesis
Authors: Kleiner Beatrice , Schörken Ulrich
Published: December 2014

Native lipase B from Candida antarctica was evaluated for ester production in the presence of hydrophilic green solvents including DES. Ester yields of up to 98% were achieved without removing water from the system in single step transformations. Analysis of the lipid phase exhibited a low water content of 0.29 mg/mL in the presence of DES in contrast to 2.5 mg/mL without solvent. Thus, water adsorbing properties of the hydrophilic solvents are responsible for the equilibrium shift towards ester synthesis, which was even observed in the presence of more than 20% water in total. Non‐immobilized CalB was surprisingly active in hydrophilic solvents with logP‐values below −1, when 5–10% water was added to the solvent phase and initial reaction velocities were significantly higher than with other organic solvents. Optimum reaction conditions were in the range of 40–50 °C with a minimum content of 50 mg/kg pure CalB needed for full conversion. The solvent phase was easily separated by decantation and final product purification with established refinement procedures yielded esters of high quality. Stability testing of soluble lipase B revealed that enzyme stability in glycerol and ChCl:Gly is exceptionally high and stabilization of lipase in denaturing ChCl:U was possible in the presence of a lipid interface. The hydrophilic solvents were superior to less polar organic solvents in regards to ester yield and initial reaction velocity. A drawback of some hydrophilic solvents in lipase‐catalyzed reactions is byproduct formation due to their chemical structure containing hydroxyl groups.

Practical applications: The proposed biocatalytic process is suited for the preparation of green esters for cosmetic and technical applications in “low‐cost” production equipment. As no water removal is needed to obtain high yields and no complex downstream processing is applied, the process may be conducted in simple stirred tank reactors. The recycling of the non‐volatile hydrophilic solvent by example decantation can easily be done in most production units. The utilization of soluble lipases in small quantities even allows for single‐use enzyme application, though the active enzyme may be recovered with the solvent and used again to minimize catalyst costs.

Lipase CalB is dissolved in the hydrophilic phase consisting of a hydrogen bonding network of solvent and water molecules. Lipase catalysis takes place at the solvent/lipid interface and water is adsorbed into the solvent phase, thus shifting the equilibrium towards ester formation in the water‐depleted lipid phase.