bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estado de la cuestión sobre el aprendizaje y la enseñanza de la radiactividad en la educación secundaria
Authors: Corbelle Cao Javier , Domínguez Castiñeiras José Manuel
Published: November 2015

En el presente trabajo se realiza una revisión bibliográfica sobre las dificultades de enseñanza y aprendizaje en el campo conceptual de la radiactividad. Se lleva a cabo el análisis desde diferentes perspectivas: ideas previas de los alumnos, ideas de profesores en formación, actividades de aula y propuestas didácticas. Se exploran las causas de dichas dificultades y se obtienen grandes coincidencias entre las ideas de alumnos y profesores en formación.
Editorial
Authors: Enseñanza de las Ciencias Revista
Published: November 2015

Editorial
Análise dos registros das prescrições medicamentosas em um hospital universitário
Authors: Silva Flávia Janólio Costacurta Pinto da , Almeida Elizabeth Santana Alves de , Rocha Flávia Calixto , Santana Maria Aparecida Vieira , Silva Elis Carla Costa Matos , Lemos Lígia Mara Dolce de , LLapa-Rodríguez Eliana Ofelia
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE: to analyze drug prescriptions in three inpatient units of a university hospital in the State of Sergipe. METHOD: this was a descriptive, transversal, and documental study. Data were collected in inpatient units during ten days in March of 2012. The sample consisted of 286 prescriptions with 2,605 items related to drugs. The study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee of the Federal University of Sergipe, under number CAAE 0263.0.107.000-11. RESULTS: out of the total prescriptions analyzed, 48% were typed, 98% did not show the patients record number, and 100.0% contained abbreviations and acronyms. Out of the 4,522 prescribed drugs, a prevalence in the absence of dosage form, drug name, and other data on the medication was observed. CONCLUSION: the existence of inadequacies in the records of drug prescriptions has shown that the administration of drugs in the studied institution can pose risks to patient safety, indicating the need for the implementation of corrective actions.
Connected (s,t)-Vertex Separator Parameterized by Chordality
Authors: Narayanaswamy N. , Sadagopan N.
Published: November 2015

We investigate the complexity of finding a minimum connected (s,t)-vertex separator ((s,t)-CVS) and present an interesting chordality dichotomy: we show that (s,t)-CVS is NP-complete on graphs of chordality at least 5 and present a polynomial-time algorithm for (s,t)-CVS on chordality 4 graphs. Further, we show that (s,t)-CVS is unlikely to have δlog2−ϵn-approximation algorithm, for any ϵ > 0 and for some δ > 0, unless NP has quasi-polynomial Las Vegas algorithms. On the positive-side of approximation, we present a ⎡c/2⎤-approximation algorithm for (s,t)-CVS on graphs with chordality c ≥ 3. Finally, in the parameterized setting, we show that (s,t)-CVS parameterized above the (s,t)-vertex connectivity is W[2]-hard.
An analytical approach to automotive industry
Authors: Ülkü İlayda , Bulkan Serol , Üneyyüksektepe Fadime
Published: November 2015

Inventory control helps to manage or locate materials and any information through the processes in the company. The aim of the inventory management in the companies is to optimize inventory control. Especially, for the manufacturing companies, inventory control has an important goal which satisfies the product to the customer on time. Therefore, the system in the production processes should not have any trouble during the production. This study aims to optimize the production system of a two stage production processes where the bumpers are produced for different type of cars and different colors due to the model of the car. In the first stage there are three injection machines which are parallel, and in the second stage, there is a dying station. A mixedinteger linear programming model is proposed to optimize the production process. With the proposed model, the production of the injection processes is optimized and the lot sizes for each stage are determined. Also, front and back bumpers for each same model is dyed concurrently which prevents the color difference for the same model of each type of car.
Successful survival, growth, and reproductive potential of quagga mussels in low calcium lake water: is there uncertainty of establishment risk?
Authors: Davis Clinton J. , Ruhmann Emma K. , Acharya Kumud , Chandra Sudeep , Jerde Christopher L.
Published: November 2015

The risk of quagga mussel (Dreissena rostriformis bugensisAndrusov 1897) establishment into water-bodies of the western US has expanded the geographic concern regarding the ecological and economic impacts this species will have in aquatic ecosystems. Thresholds based on calcium concentrations, an element critical for mussel growth and physiology, have been used as a primary predictor of quagga mussel establishment success to aid management decisions. We evaluated the invasion potential of quagga mussels in low calcium waters using laboratory experiments to compare the survival, growth and reproductive potential of adult mussels held for 90 days at low (9 and 12 ppm), moderate (15 to 32 ppm) and high (72 ppm) calcium water concentrations. In conjunction with adult experiments, veliger stage survival, growth and settlement were evaluated under similar low, moderate, and high calcium water treatments. Adult mussels survived, grew and showed reproductive potential in low calcium water (12 ppm). Veligers were also able to survive, grow and settle in low calcium water. Higher levels of natural seston biomass appeared to improve adult mussel life history performance in low calcium water. Survival curve analysis predicted that 99% adult mortality could occur in <170 days at 9 ppm and 12 ppm, however water with >15 ppm could have adults surviving more than a year. The results from these bioassays provide further evidence that quagga mussels have higher risk of establishment in low calcium lakes if habitats exist that have slightly elevated calcium. These results should help emphasize the vulnerability of water-body in the 12 to 15 ppm calcium range that could potentially be at risk of establishing sustainable quagga mussel populations. Furthermore, these results provide insights into the uncertainty of using a single parameter in assigning establishment risk given the complexity of variables in specific water-bodies that influence life history performance of introduced species.
Overcoming pain thresholds with multilevel models—an example using quantitative sensory testing (QST) data
Authors: Hirschfeld Gerrit , Blankenburg Markus R. , Süß Moritz , Zernikow Boris
Published: November 2015

The assessment of somatosensory function is a cornerstone of research and clinical practice in neurology. Recent initiatives have developed novel protocols for quantitative sensory testing (QST). Application of these methods led to intriguing findings, such as the presence lower pain-thresholds in healthy children compared to healthy adolescents. In this article, we (re-) introduce the basic concepts of signal detection theory (SDT) as a method to investigate such differences in somatosensory function in detail. SDT describes participants’ responses according to two parameters, sensitivity and response-bias. Sensitivity refers to individuals’ ability to discriminate between painful and non-painful stimulations. Response-bias refers to individuals’ criterion for giving a “painful” response. We describe how multilevel models can be used to estimate these parameters and to overcome central critiques of these methods. To provide an example we apply these methods to data from the mechanical pain sensitivity test of the QST protocol. The results show that adolescents are more sensitive to mechanical pain and contradict the idea that younger children simply use more lenient criteria to report pain. Overall, we hope that the wider use of multilevel modeling to describe somatosensory functioning may advance neurology research and practice.
Development and application of molecular biomarkers for characterizing Caribbean Yellow Band Disease inOrbicella faveolata
Authors: Morgan Michael , Goodner Kylia , Ross James , Poole Angela Z. , Stepp Elizabeth , Stuart Christopher H. , Wilbanks Cydney , Weil Ernesto
Published: November 2015

Molecular stress responses associated with coral diseases represent an under-studied area of cnidarian transcriptome investigations. Caribbean Yellow Band Disease (CYBD) is considered a disease ofSymbiodiniumwithin the tissues of the coral hostOrbicella faveolata. There is a paucity of diagnostic tools to assist in the early detection and characterization of coral diseases. The validity of a diagnostic test is determined by its ability to distinguish host organisms that have the disease from those that do not. The ability to detect and identify disease-affected tissue before visible signs of the disease are evident would then be a useful diagnostic tool for monitoring and managing disease outbreaks. Representational Difference Analysis (RDA) was utilized to isolate differentially expressed genes inO. faveolataexhibiting CYBD. Preliminary screening of RDA products identified a small number of genes of interest (GOI) which included an early growth response factor and ubiquitin ligase from the coral host as well as cytochrome oxidase from the algal symbiont. To further characterize the specificity of response, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was utilized to compare the expression profiles of these GOIs within diseased tissues (visible lesions), tissues that precede visible lesions by 2–4 cm (transition area), and tissues from healthy-looking colonies with no signs of disease. Results show there are distinctive differences in the expression profiles of these three GOIs within each tissue examined. Collectively, this small suite of GOIs can provide a molecular “finger print” which is capable of differentiating between infected and uninfected colonies on reefs where CYBD is known to occur.
Neotectonics of the Western Nepal Fault System: Implications for Himalayan strain partitioning
Authors: Silver Calvin R. P. , Murphy Michael A. , Taylor Michael H. , Gosse John , Baltz Thomas
Published: November 2015

Oblique convergence at the Himalayan margin is hypothesized to be partitioned by orogen‐normal thrusting and orogen‐parallel strike‐slip faulting. We conducted field mapping and remote sensing in the Dhaulagiri Range of Nepal, and the results reveal an active regional fault system termed the Western Nepal Fault System (WNFS). Right and normally offset Quaternary deposits and brittly deformed bedrock demarcate dextral slip along two strike‐slip faults striking N40–50°W linked via an extensional right step over striking N10–20°E. The strike‐slip attitudes subparallel bedrock foliation, while the step over cuts at a high angle (~70°). Fault slip data along the strike‐slip segments trend N70°W with minor dip component, top to north. Fault slip data and observed kinematics along the WNFS support our interpretation that the WNFS formed via arc‐parallel stress. On the basis of geometry, kinematics, and structural position we correlate the WNFS to active faults between the Karakoram and Bari Gad faults. This suggests an ~350 km long dextral fault system extending obliquely across the Western Nepal Himalaya which appears to intersect the Main Frontal Thrust (MFT) near 83°30′E, coinciding with a large gradient in the arc‐parallel component of GPS velocities. We interpret the WNFS to represent a class of orogen‐parallel strike‐slip faults working with subduction to accommodate obliquely convergent plate motion. Our observations support the hypothesis that the region lying between the MFT and the WNFS is a continental version of a fore‐arc sliver bounded at its base by the Main Himalayan Thrust.
In‐flight calibration of NOAA POES proton detectors—Derivation of the MEPED correction factors
Authors: Sandanger Marit Irene , Ødegaard Linn‐Kristine Glesnes , Nesse Tyssøy Hilde , Stadsnes Johan , Søraas Finn , Oksavik Kjellmar , Aarsnes Kjell
Published: November 2015

The MEPED instruments on board the NOAA POES and MetOp satellites have been continuously measuring energetic particles in the magnetosphere since 1978. However, degradation of the proton detectors over time leads to an increase in the energy thresholds of the instrument and imposes great challenges to studies of long‐term variability in the near‐Earth space environment as well as a general quantification of the proton fluxes. By comparing monthly mean accumulated integral flux from a new and an old satellite at the same magnetic local time (MLT) and time period, we estimate the change in energy thresholds. The first 12 monthly energy spectra of the new satellite are used as a reference, and the derived monthly correction factors over a year for an old satellite show a small spread, indicating a robust calibration procedure. The method enables us to determine for the first time the correction factors also for the highest‐energy channels of the proton detector. In addition, we make use of the newest satellite in orbit (MetOp‐01) to find correction factors for 2013 for the NOAA 17 and MetOp‐02 satellites. Without taking into account the level of degradation, the proton data from one satellite cannot be used quantitatively for more than 2 to 3 years after launch. As the electron detectors are vulnerable to contamination from energetic protons, the corrected proton measurements will be of value for electron flux measurements too. Thus, the correction factors ensure the correctness of both the proton and electron measurements.
Oxygen dynamics in a boreal lake responds to long‐term changes in climate, ice phenology, and DOC inputs
Authors: Couture Raoul‐Marie , de Wit Heleen A. , Tominaga Koji , Kiuru Petri , Markelov Igor
Published: November 2015

Boreal lakes are impacted by climate change, reduced acid deposition, and changing loads of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from catchments. We explored, using the process‐based lake model MyLake, how changes in these pressures modulate ice phenology and the dissolved oxygen concentrations (DO) of a small boreal humic lake. The model was parametrized against year‐round time series of water temperature and DO from a lake buoy. Observed trends in air temperature (+0.045°C yr−1) and DOC concentration (0.11 mg C L−1 yr−1, +1% annually) over the past 40 years were used as model forcings. A backcast of ice freezing and breakup dates revealed that ice breakup occurred on average 8 days earlier in 2014 than in 1974. The earlier ice breakup enhanced water column ventilation resulting in higher DO in the spring. Warmer water in late summer led to longer anoxic periods, as microbial DOC turnover increased. A long‐term increase in DOC concentrations caused a decline in lake DO, leading to 15% more hypoxic days (<3 mg L−1) and 10% more anoxic days (<15 µg L−1) in 2014 than in 1974. We conclude that climate warming and increasing DOC loads are antagonistic with respect to their effect on DO availability. The model suggests that DOC is a stronger driver of DO consumption than temperature. The browning of lakes may thus cause reductions in the oxythermal habitat of fish and aquatic biota in boreal lakes.
Biosafety Oversight and Compliance: What do you Mean, I have to Fill Out Another Form?!
Authors: Petrella Brenda L.
Published: November 2015

This unit is an overview of biosafety compliance and oversight in the United States. Specific attention is given to the oversight of the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and how the purview of the IBC may overlap with other local committees, such as the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) for animal research and the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for research on human subjects. Requirements for the Federal Select Agent Program and Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) are also briefly reviewed for those working with materials and experiments covered under these regulations. This unit serves as a guide for new and established investigators who are navigating the regulatory world and how regulatory oversight applies to their research. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Preparation of Cell Cultures and Vaccinia Virus Stocks
Authors: Cotter Catherine A. , Earl Patricia L. , Wyatt Linda S. , Moss Bernard
Published: November 2015

The culturing of cell lines used with vaccinia virus, both as monolayer and in suspension, is described. The preparation of chick embryo fibroblasts (CEF) is presented for use in the production of the highly attenuated and host range‐restricted modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) strain of vaccinia virus. Protocols for the preparation, titration, and trypsinization of vaccinia virus stocks, as well as viral DNA preparation and virus purification methods are also included. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Neurofilament levels as biomarkers in asymptomatic and symptomatic familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Weydt Patrick , Oeckl Patrick , Huss André , Müller Kathrin , Volk Alexander E. , Kuhle Jens , Knehr Antje , Andersen Peter M. , Prudlo Johannes , Steinacker Petra , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Ludolph Albert C. , Otto Markus
Published: November 2015

Neurofilaments are elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. However, timing of this increase is unknown. To characterize the premanifest disease phase, we performed a cross‐sectional study on asymptomatic (n = 12) and symptomatic (n = 64) ALS mutation carriers and family controls (n = 19). Neurofilaments NF‐L (neurofilament–light chain) and pNF‐H (phosphorylated neurofilament–heavy chain) are normal before symptom onset and increased by at least an order of magnitude at early symptom onset in CSF (pNF‐H) or serum and CSF (NF‐L). Thus, blood and CSF neurofilament levels are linked to the symptomatic phase of ALS and might serve as objective markers of structural damage to the nervous system. ANN NEUROL 2016;79:152–158
Enzymatische Synthese von Nukleinsäuren mit definierten regioisomeren 2′‐5′‐Verknüpfungen
Authors: Cozens Christopher , Mutschler Hannes , Nelson Geoffrey M. , Houlihan Gillian , Taylor Alexander I. , Holliger Philipp
Published: November 2015

Informationentragende Nukleinsäuren sind universell über 3′‐5′‐Bindungen verknüpft. Regioisomere 2′‐5′‐Verknüpfungen bilden sich dagegen unregelmäßig während der nichtenzymatischen RNA‐Synthese und waren womöglich hilfreich für die präbiotische RNA‐Replikation. Hier berichten wir über die enzymatische Synthese von DNA und RNA mit ortsspezifischen 2′‐5′‐Verknüpfungen durch ein gezielt verändertes Polymerase‐Enzym, das 3′‐Desoxy‐ oder 3′‐O‐Methyl‐NTPs als Substrat verwendet. Zusätzlich vermelden wir die reverse Transkription der so hergestellten, modifizierten Nukleinsäuren zurück in 3′‐5′‐verknüpfte DNA mit guter Fidelität. Somit ergibt sich eine schnelle und einfache Methode zur “strukturellen Mutagenese” durch positionsselektives Einfügen von 2′‐5′‐Verknüpfungen, durch die, ohne Änderung der Basensequenz, die Struktur und Funktion von Nukleinsäuren anhand lokaler Deformationen durch regioisomere Bindungen untersucht werden kann. Beispielhaft wenden wir diese Methode auf das 10‐23‐RNA‐Endonuklease‐DNAzym an.
Oxygen‐Controlled Catalysis by Vitamin B12‐TiO2: Formation of Esters and Amides from Trichlorinated Organic Compounds by Photoirradiation
Authors: Shimakoshi Hisashi , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: November 2015

An oxygen switch in catalysis of the cobalamin derivative (B12)‐TiO2 hybrid catalyst for the dechlorination of trichlorinated organic compounds has been developed. The covalently bound B12 on the TiO2 surface transformed trichlorinated organic compounds into an ester and amide by UV light irradiation under mild conditions (in air at room temperature), while dichlorostilbenes (E and Z forms) were formed in nitrogen from benzotrichloride. A benzoyl chloride was formed as an intermediate of the ester and amide, which was detected by GC‐MS. The substrate scope of the synthetic strategy is demonstrated with a range of various trichlorinated organic compounds. A photo‐duet reaction utilizing the hole and conduction band electron of TiO2 in B12‐TiO2 for the amide formation was also developed.
A Shape‐Memory Supercapacitor Fiber
Authors: Deng Jue , Zhang Ye , Zhao Yang , Chen Peining , Cheng Xunliang , Peng Huisheng
Published: November 2015

A shape‐memory, fiber‐shaped supercapacitor is developed by winding aligned carbon nanotube sheets on a shape‐memory polyurethane substrate. Despite its flexibility and stretchability, the deformed shapes under bending and stretching can be “frozen” as expected and recovered to the original state when required. Its electrochemical performances are well‐maintained during deformation, at the deformed state and after the recovery.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Nucleic Acids with Defined Regioisomeric 2′‐5′ Linkages
Authors: Cozens Christopher , Mutschler Hannes , Nelson Geoffrey M. , Houlihan Gillian , Taylor Alexander I. , Holliger Philipp
Published: November 2015

Information‐bearing nucleic acids display universal 3′‐5′ linkages, but regioisomeric 2′‐5′ linkages occur sporadically in non‐enzymatic RNA synthesis and may have aided prebiotic RNA replication. Herein we report on the enzymatic synthesis of both DNA and RNA with site‐specific 2′‐5′ linkages by an engineered polymerase using 3′‐deoxy‐ or 3′‐O‐methyl‐NTPs as substrates. We also report the reverse transcription of the resulting modified nucleic acids back to 3′‐5′ linked DNA with good fidelity. This enables a fast and simple method for “structural mutagenesis” by the position‐selective incorporation of 2′‐5′ linkages, whereby nucleic acid structure and function may be probed through local distortion by regioisomeric linkages while maintaining the wild‐type base sequence as we demonstrate for the 10–23 RNA endonuclease DNAzyme.
Synergistic compatibilization and reinforcement of HDPE/wood flour composites
Authors: Dai Baojie , Wang Quan , Yan Wei , Li Zhuang , Guo Weihong
Published: November 2015

Multi‐monomer grafted copolymers, high‐density polyethylene‐grafted‐maleic anhydride‐styrene (HDPE‐g‐(MAH‐St)) and polyethylene wax‐grafted‐ maleic anhydride ((PE wax)‐g‐MAH), were synthesized and applied to prepare high‐performance high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)/wood flour (WF) composites. Interfacial synergistic compatibilization was studied via the coordinated blending of high‐density polyethylene‐grafted‐maleic anhydride (MPE‐St) and polyethylene wax‐grafted‐ maleic anhydride (MPW) in the high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)/wood flour (WF) composites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphology and three‐dimensional WF sketch presented that strong interactive interface between HDPE and WF, formed by MPE‐St with high graft degree of maleic anhydride (MAH) together with the permeating effect of MPW with a low molecular weight. Experimental results demonstrated that HDPE/WF composites compatibilized by MPE‐St/MPW compounds showed significant improvement in mechanical properties, rheological properties, and water resistance than those compatibilized by MPE, MPE‐St or MPW separately and the uncompatibilized composites. The mass ratio of MPE‐St/MPW for optimizing the HDPE/WF composites was 5:1. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 42958.
Preparation of polyethersulfone/sulfonated polyethersulfonephenylethane microspheres and its application for the adsorption of bisphenol A
Authors: Qiu Fang , Peng Minle , Wei Zhimei , Wang Xiaojun , Yang Jie
Published: November 2015

A novel kind of sulfonated polyethersulfonephenylethane (SPESPE) was successfully synthesized firstly in this work. Then the SPESPE was introduced in polyethersulfone (PES) microspheres prepared by the electrospraying technique. The microspheres were applied to adsorbing bisphenol A (BPA) from its aqueous solution. Compared with the PES microspheres, the adsorption capacity of PES/SPESPE microspheres for BPA was increased significantly. Furthermore, the adsorption capacity of PES/SPESPE microspheres was enhanced by increasing the amounts of SPESPE in the microspheres. The pH of solution had influence on the adsorption capacity of PES/SPESPE microspheres. The kinetic data of adsorption were found to follow pseudo‐second‐order model. The Freundlich isotherm model was suitable to describe the equilibrium adsorption data. The microspheres also showed excellent regeneration and reuse ability. These results indicated that the PES/SPESPE microspheres have the potential to be used in environmental application. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43066.
What Protects Certain Nerves from Stretch Injury?
Authors: Schraut Nicholas B. , Walton Sharon , Monsef Jad Bou , Shott Susan , Serici Anthony , Soulii Lioubov , Amirouche Farid , Gonzalez Mark H. , Kerns James M.
Published: November 2015

The human tibial nerves is less prone to injury following joint arthroplasty compared with the peroneal nerves. Besides the anatomical distribution, other features may confer protection from stretch injury. We therefore examined the size, shape and connective tissue distribution for the two nerves. The tibial and peroneal nerves from each side of nine fresh human cadavers we reharvested mid‐thigh. Proximal segments manually stretched 20%–25% were fixed in aldehyde, while the adjacent distal segments were fixed in their natural length. Paraffin sections stained by Masson's trichrome method for connective tissue were examined by light microscopy. Tibial nerves had 2X more fascicles compared with the peroneal, but the axonal content appeared similar. Analysis showed that neither nerve had a significant reduction in cross sectional area of the fascicles following stretch. However, fascicles from stretched tibial nerves become significantly more oval compared with those from unstretched controls and peroneal nerves. Tibial nerves had a greater proportion that was extrafascicular tissue (50‐55%) compared with peroneal nerves (38%–42%). This epineurium was typically adipose tissue. Perineurial thickness in both nerves was directly related to fascicular size. Tibial nerves have several unique histological features associated with size, shape and tissue composition compared with the peroneal nerve. We suggest that more fascicles with their tightly bound perineurium and more robust epineurium afford protection against stretch injury. Mechanical studies should clarify how size and shape contribute to nerve protection and/or neurapraxia. Anat Rec, 299:111–117, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Minimum‐Time State Feedback Stabilization of Constrained Boolean Control Networks
Authors: Li Haitao , Wang Yuzhen
Published: November 2015

Ministry in 2005, and the National Prize of Natural Science of China in 2008. Currently, he is Associate Editor IMA Journal of Math Control and Inform., and a Technical Committee member of IFAC (TC2.3).

This paper investigates the state feedback stabilization of Boolean control networks (BCNs) with state and input constraints by using the semi‐tensor product of matrices. Firstly, a kind of constrained input‐state incidence matrix is proposed for constrained BCNs, which contains all the reachability information of the constrained systems. Secondly, based on the constrained input‐state incidence matrix, a necessary and sufficient condition is presented for the stabilization of constrained BCNs via state feedback. Thirdly, a general procedure is proposed to design all possible minimum‐time state feedback stabilizers. The study of an illustrative example shows that the new results obtained are effective in analyzing the stabilization of constrained BCNs.
Redesign of the Active Site of Sucrose Phosphorylase through a Clash‐Induced Cascade of Loop Shifts
Authors: Kraus Michael , Grimm Clemens , Seibel Jürgen
Published: November 2015

Sucrose phosphorylases have been applied in the enzymatic production of glycosylated compounds for decades. However, several desirable acceptors, such as flavonoids or stilbenoids, that exhibit diverse antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic or antioxidant properties, remain poor substrates. The Q345F exchange in sucrose phosphorylase from Bifidobacterium adolescentis allows efficient glucosylation of resveratrol, (+)‐catechin and (−)‐epicatechin in yields of up to 97 % whereas the wild‐type enzyme favours sucrose hydrolysis. Three previously undescribed products are made available. The crystal structure of the variant reveals a widened access channel with a hydrophobic aromatic surface that is likely to contribute to the improved activity towards aromatic acceptors. The generation of this channel can be explained in terms of a cascade of structural changes arising from the Q345F exchange. The observed mechanisms are likely to be relevant for the design of other tailor‐made enzymes.
Increased bleeding risk during percutaneous coronary interventions by arterial hypertension
Authors: Ndrepepa Gjin , Groha Philipp , Lahmann Anna L. , Lohaus Raphaela , Cassese Salvatore , Schulz‐Schüpke Stefanie , Kufner Sebastian , Mayer Katharina , Bernlochner Isabell , Byrne Robert A. , Fusaro Massimiliano , Laugwitz Karl‐Ludwig , Schunkert Heribert , Kastrati Adnan
Published: November 2015

Objectives

We aimed to assess the association between arterial hypertension and bleeding in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

The impact of arterial hypertension on bleeding risk of patients with coronary artery disease undergoing PCI is unknown.

Methods

This study included 14,180 patients who underwent PCI. Bleeding was defined using the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) criteria. Arterial hypertension was defined as treatment with antihypertensive drugs or a systolic blood pressure >140 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure value >90 mm Hg documented on at least 2 occasions. The primary outcome was bleeding rate within 30 days of PCI.

Results

Overall, 11,066 patients (78.0%) had arterial hypertension. Bleeding events occurred in 1,232 patients with arterial hypertension and 278 patients without arterial hypertension (11.1% vs 8.9%; odds ratio [OR] = 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11–1.46, P < 0.001). Access‐site bleeding occurred in 730 patients with arterial hypertension and 175 patients without arterial hypertension (6.6% vs 5.6%: OR = 1.19 [1.01–1.41], P = 0.049). Non‐access‐site bleeding occurred in 502 patients with and 103 patients without arterial hypertension (4.5% vs 3.3%; OR = 1.39 [1.12–1.72], P = 0.003). After adjustment, arterial hypertension was significantly associated with any bleeding (adjusted OR = 1.41 [1.19–1.67], P < 0.001), access‐site bleeding (adjusted OR = 1.36 [1.10–1.68], P = 0.005) and non‐access‐site bleeding (adjusted OR = 1.42 [1.09–1.83], P = 0.008). A history of arterial hypertension increased the risk of non‐access‐site bleeding (P = 0.002), whereas systolic blood pressure at the time of PCI increased the risk of access site bleeding (P = 0.018).

Conclusions

Arterial hypertension is associated with increased risk of bleeding during PCI procedures. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Left dominant circulation increases mortality in acute coronary syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies involving 255,718 patients
Authors: Khan Abdur R. , Khan Luni Faraz , Bavishi Chirag , Khan Sobia , Eltahawy Ehab A.
Published: November 2015

Background

The effect of coronary dominance on mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains unclear. We performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the effect of coronary dominance in patients with ACS.

Methods

Several data sources were searched for studies which compared studies that compared outcomes between right and left dominant coronary circulation in patients with ACS. The measured outcomes were in‐hospital, 30‐day or long‐term mortality as reported in individual studies. The Generic inverse variance method was used in a random‐effects model to pool mortality as an outcome. Odds ratio (OR) was calculated for mortality in the left dominant circulation relative to a right dominant one. Sub‐group analysis was performed after stratification of mortality by duration.

Results

A total of 5 studies with 8 comparisons and 255,718 participants revealed an increased risk mortality (OR = 1.27 (95% CI: 1.13 − 1.42; P < 0.0001; I2 = 34%). Sub‐group analysis revealed that the increased risk was evident at all time periods after the ACS; in‐hospital (OR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.07 − 1.76; P = 0.01; I2 = 50%), at 30 days (OR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.14 − 2.52; P = 0.009; I2 = 18%) and long‐term (OR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.03 − 1.28; P = 0.01; I2 = 0%).

Conclusions

In this meta‐analysis we found that there is an increased risk of mortality with LD coronary circulation in patients with ACS. The knowledge of coronary dominance may not only be helpful as an incremental prognostic factor beyond pre‐procedural risk scores in all patients with ACS, but may also aid in clinical decision making in a subset of these patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of local anesthetic (0.25% bupivacaine) for pain control after pediatric cardiac catheterization: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Palma Amy , Viegas Jacqueline , Manlhiot Cedric , McCrindle Brian , Benson Lee
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To investigate the effects of local infiltration of 0.25% bupivacaine on post‐operative pain and analgesic use in children undergoing cardiac catheterization procedures.

Background

In pediatric catheterization procedures performed under general anesthesia, a local anesthetic is often used prior to femoral sheath removal. There are no published reports of the impact of local anesthetic infiltration on pain after pediatric procedures, and mixed reports on its effectiveness in adults.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was undertaken of 140 children, aged 7–18 years undergoing cardiac catheterization under general anesthesia via the femoral vein or artery. Participants received a subcutaneous infiltration of 0.25% bupivacaine at the access site prior to sheath removal, or usual care without bupivacaine. Outcomes included patient reported pain scores and analgesic use up to 6 hr after the procedure.

Results

Pain scores were similar between groups through the 6‐hr post‐procedure period. The proportion of children reporting a maximal pain score of ≤2/10 was higher in the bupivacaine group (64% vs. 44%, P = 0.03). A significantly higher proportion of children in the control group required IV morphine (18.8% vs. 4.5%, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Morphine use can be reduced with the use of 0.25% bupivacaine given prior to femoral sheath removal and should be considered for post‐procedural pain control for pediatric patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. This study is the first to contribute evidence to the effectiveness of 0.25% bupivacaine after pediatric cardiac catheterization. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cardiac computed tomography assessment of the near term impact of percutaneous ventricular restoration therapy (parachute®) on mitral valve geometry
Authors: Tam Chor Cheung , Fares Anas , Alaiti Amer , Shaikh Kashif , Ince Hüseyin , Erglis Andrejs , Bezerra Hiram G. , Abraham William T. , Costa Marco A. , Attizzani Guilherme F.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

The aim of current study is to assess the near term impact of percutaneous ventricular restoration therapy (PVR), Parachute® on mitral valve (MV) geometry by cardiac computed tomography (CCT).

Background

Recent data demonstrates the feasibility of PVR for treatment of post anterior myocardial infarction (MI) heart failure. Little is known, however, about the interaction of the device and left ventricular structures, particularly the MV apparatus.

Methods

This is a retrospective Core Laboratory analysis of Parachute Trials’ CCT data. Patients with paired (before and after Parachute implant) CCT acquisitions were included into analysis. MV geometric parameters were measured.

Results

Thirty‐three patients were included in the analysis. The mean time of follow‐up CCT post procedure was 188 ± 52 days. There were significant reduction in tenting height (A1P1: −1.70 ± 1.89 mm, −17.40 ± 20.20%; A2P2: −1.43 ± 1.89 mm, −12.10 ± 15.00%; A3P3: −1.54 ± 1.58 mm, −15.50 ± 15.20%, P < 0.001), tenting volume (−0.93 ± 0.60 mm3, −22.00 ± 11.40%, P < 0.001), systolic interpapillary muscle distance (−2.22 ± 2.11 mm, −7.51 ± 7.23%, P < 0.001) and diastolic interpapillary muscle distance (−3.14 ± 2.20 mm, −8.46 ± 5.73%, P < 0.001) post PVR.

Conclusions

In post anterior MI heart failure patients, PVR has favorable near term impact on MV geometry as assessed by CCT. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A meta analysis of current status of alcohol septal ablation and surgical myectomy for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Singh Kuljit , Qutub Mohammad , Carson Kristin , Hibbert Benjamin , Glover Christopher
Published: November 2015

Objective

Our objective was to perform an updated systematic review to compare the efficacy and short‐ and long‐term mortality of surgical myectomy (SM) and alcohol septal ablation (ASA) by including most recent and largest cohort studies published in last few years. Background: SM and ASA are the two invasive strategies used to relieve left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) in patients with drug refractory symptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). In the absence of a randomized trial, we tried to compare the pros and cons of the two procedures using a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Method: A comprehensive search of three major databases was performed. We included original research studies comparing data on ASA and SM. Of 1,143 citations, 10 studies were included in the analysis. Results: A total of 805 patients underwent ASA and 1,019 underwent SM. Patients undergoing SM were younger (MD 6.3, P = 0.0001) and had higher reduction in the LVOT gradient (MD −9.56, P = 0.05). However, there was similar resolution of class III and IV symptoms between the two groups (P = 0.56). There was no difference in sudden cardiac death (SCD) (P = 0.93), short‐term (P = 0.36), long‐term all cause (P = 0.27), and long‐term cardiac mortality (P = 0.58). Patients undergoing ASA had higher incidence of post procedure device implantation (OR 3.09, P < 0.00001). Conclusion: No significant difference in symptom relief was noted between the two approaches. ASA was as safe a myectomy with regards to SCD, short‐term, and long‐term mortality. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reduction of atherothrombotic burden before stent deployment in non‐ST elevation acute coronary syndromes: Reduction of myocardial necrosis achieved with nose‐dive manual thrombus aspiration (REMNANT) trial. A volumetric intravascular ultrasound study
Authors: Zimarino Marco , Angeramo Francesca , Prasad Abhiram , Ruggieri Benedetta , Malatesta Sara , Prati Francesco , Buttitta Fiamma , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To test whether thrombus aspiration (TA) reduces the atherosclerotic burden in culprit lesions and “facilitate” percutaneous coronary intervention with stent (S‐PCI) among patients with non‐ST elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE‐ACS).

Background

Evidence on the effects of TA adjunctive to S‐PCI in NSTE‐ACS is limited and controversial.

Methods

TA was defined “aggressive” when using 7F devices or a catheter/artery ratio >0.6, “conservative” with 6F, and a catheter/artery ratio ≤0.6. Angiography and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) were performed at baseline, after TA and after stent deployment.

Results

TA was accomplished in 61/76 patients (80%) with NSTE‐ACS. The aspirated material was red thrombus in 23% and plaque fragments in 49% of cases. Compared with baseline, TA was associated with an 82% increase in minimal lumen diameter and a 15% reduction in diameter stenosis (P < 0.001 for both). After TA, IVUS documented a 24 and 16% increase in minimal lumen area and lumen volume, respectively (P < 0.001 for both), a 7% decrease in area stenosis through an 11% reduction of plaque + media volume (P < 0.001). When compared with “conservative”, an “aggressive” TA was associated with a more pronounced reduction in percent area stenosis (P < 0.05) and an increase in percent stent expansion (P < 0.001). The plaque + media volume reduction after TA was correlated with stent expansion (r = 0.261, P = 0.046).

Conclusions

Manual TA reduces atherothrombotic burden in culprit lesions of NSTE‐ACS patients before S‐PCI and, when deep plaque removal is obtained, TA optimizes subsequent stent expansion. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Atomically Controllable Pd@Pt Core–Shell Nanoparticles towards Preferential Oxidation of CO in Hydrogen Reactions Modulated by Platinum Shell Thickness
Authors: Cao Kun , Liu Xiao , Zhu Qianqian , Shan Bin , Chen Rong
Published: November 2015

The shell‐thickness effect of Pd@Pt core–shell nanoparticles (NPs) towards the preferential oxidation of CO in the presence of excess H2 (PROX) was investigated. Atomically controllable Pd@Pt core–shell nanoparticles were fabricated by using an area‐selective atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. A linear growth rate of Pt on a Pd surface monitored with in situ quartz crystal microbalance indicated that the shell thickness could be controlled by varying the number of ALD cycles. The core–shell Pd@Pt NPs showed better activity and selectivity than monometallic NPs. The catalyst with a monolayer Pt shell showed optimal performance and minimal Pt loading. The mechanism of the Pt shell on Pd core catalyzed PROX reactions was studied by DFT simulations. The energy barriers to CO oxidation significantly decreased upon coating the catalyst with Pt, which led to enhanced activity and selectivity, and Pd/Pt1 monolayer showed the lowest barrier.
Mechanistic Study of Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation with Simple Iron Carbonyls as Water Reduction Catalysts
Authors: Fischer Steffen , Bokareva Olga S. , Barsch Enrico , Bokarev Sergey I. , Kühn Oliver , Ludwig Ralf
Published: November 2015

This study provides new insights into light‐driven hydrogen generation using an iridium photosensitizer (IrPS) and simple iron carbonyls as water reduction catalysts (WRCs). Stopped‐flow rapid‐scan FTIR and operando continuous‐flow FTIR spectroscopy as well as time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) has been applied to study the reaction. The conversion of the WRC precursor [Fe3(CO)12] into the radicals [Fe3(CO)11].− and [Fe2(CO)8].− as well as [Fe(CO)5] in the absence of light in a solvent mixture of tetrahydrofuran, triethylamine, and water has been studied quantitatively. During light‐induced hydrogen production in the presence of the IrPS, the trimeric [HFe3(CO)11]− and the monomeric [HFe(CO)4]− anion could be identified as major WRC species. The equilibrium between both species can be shifted completely towards [HFe(CO)4]− by increasing the water content of the solvent mixture. Application of other iron(0) carbonyl compounds as WRC precursors also results in the exclusive formation of [HFe(CO)4]−. Kinetic experiments show that the stability of the system is primarily influenced by the applied amount of WRC precursor, whereas the reaction rate is mainly determined by the concentration of the IrPS. At least two loss channels could be identified: light‐induced CO dissociation from the WRC and decomposition of the IrPS at high IrPS/WRC ratios, accompanied by a ligand transfer from the iridium towards the iron center of the WRC. To reveal the nature of the catalytically active complex, binding energies and charge‐transfer probabilities of all coordination geometries of various IrPS⋅⋅⋅WRC complexes have been calculated. These computations indicate an increased probability of charge transfer for dimeric and trimeric iron carbonyl species.
The Synthesis and Characterization of Aromatic Hybrid Anderson–Evans POMs and their Serum Albumin Interactions: The Shift from Polar to Hydrophobic Interactions
Authors: Al‐Sayed Emir , Blazevic Amir , Roller Alexander , Rompel Annette
Published: November 2015

Four aromatic hybrid Anderson polyoxomolybdates with Fe3+ or Mn3+ as the central heteroatom have been synthesized by using a pre‐functionalization protocol and characterized by using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, FTIR, ESI‐MS, 1H NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Structural analysis revealed the formation of (TBA)3[FeMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC6H5}2]⋅3.5 ACN (TBA‐FeMo6‐bzn; TBA=tetrabutylammonium, ACN=acetonitrile, bzn=TRIS‐benzoic acid alkanolamide, TRISR=(HOCH2)3CR)), (TBA)3[FeMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC8H7}2]⋅2.5 ACN (TBA‐FeMo6‐cin; cin=TRIS‐cinnamic acid alkanolamide), (TBA)3[MnMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC6H5}2]⋅3.5 ACN (TBA‐MnMo6‐bzn), and (TBA)3[MnMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC8H7}2]⋅2.5 ACN (TBA‐MnMo6‐cin). To make these four compounds applicable in biological systems, an ion exchange was performed that gave the water‐soluble (up to 80 mM) sodium salts Na3[FeMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC6H5}2] (Na‐FeMo6‐bzn), Na3[FeMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC8H7}2] (Na‐FeMo6‐cin), Na3[MnMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC6H5}2] (Na‐MnMo6‐bzn), and Na3[MnMo6O18{(OCH2)3CNHCOC8H7}2] (Na‐MnMo6‐cin). The hydrolytic stability of the sodium salts was examined by applying ESI‐MS in the pH range of 4 to 9. Sodium dodecylsulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) showed that human and bovine serum albumin (HSA and BSA) remain intact in solutions that contain up to 100 equivalents of the sodium salts over more than 4 d at 20 °C. Tryptophan (Trp) fluorescence quenching was applied to study the interactions between the sodium salts and HSA and BSA at pH 5.5 and 7.4. The quenching constants were extracted by using Stern–Volmer analysis, which suggested the formation of a 1:1 POM–protein complex in all samples. It is suggested that the aromatic hybrid POM approaches subdomain IIA of HSA and exhibits hydrophobic interactions with its hydrophobic tails, whereas the Anderson core is stabilized through electrostatic interactions with polar amino acid side chains from, for example, subdomain IB.
Highly Fluorescent Green Fluorescent Protein Chromophore Analogues Made by Decorating the Imidazolone Ring
Authors: Gutiérrez Sara , Martínez‐López David , Morón María , Sucunza David , Sampedro Diego , Domingo Alberto , Salgado Antonio , Vaquero Juan J.
Published: November 2015

The synthesis and photophysical behavior of an unexplored family of green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐like chromophore analogues is reported. The compound (Z)‐4‐(4‐hydroxybenzylidene)‐1‐propyl‐2‐(propylamino)‐1H‐imidazol‐5(4 H)‐one (p‐HBDNI, 2 a) exhibits significantly enhanced fluorescence properties relative to the parent compound (Z)‐5‐(4‐hydroxybenzylidene)‐2,3‐dimethyl‐3,5‐dihydro‐4H‐imidazol‐4‐one (p‐HBDI, 1). p‐HBDNI was considered as a model system and the photophysical properties of other novel 2‐amino‐3,5‐dihydro‐4H‐imidazol‐4‐one derivatives were evaluated. Time‐dependent DFT calculations were carried out to rationalize the results. The analogue AIDNI (2 c), in which the 4‐hydroxybenzyl group of p‐HBDNI was replaced by an azaindole group, showed improved photophysical properties and potential for cell staining. The uptake and intracellular distribution of 2 c in living cells was investigated by confocal microscopy imaging.
Diversity Oriented Synthesis of Indoloazepinobenzimidazole and Benzimidazotriazolobenzodiazepine from N1‐Alkyne‐1,2‐diamines
Authors: Kumar Ravi , Arigela Rajesh K. , Samala Srinivas , Kundu Bijoy
Published: November 2015

A one‐pot protocol for the diversity oriented synthesis of two N‐polyheterocycles indoloazepinobenzimidazole and benzimidazotriazolobenzodiazepine from a common N1‐alkyne‐1,2‐diamine building block is described. The approach involves sequential formation of benzimidazole through cyclocondensation and oxidation, which is followed by the formation of either an azepine ring (through alkyne activation and 6‐endo‐dig cyclization, 1,2‐migration with ring expansion, and re‐aromatization), or diazepine and triazole rings through 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition.