bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing the adsorption capacity and selectivity of poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels by an alternative imprinting technique
Authors: Patachia Silvia , Croitoru Catalin
Published: February 2015

In this work, we report an innovative alternative imprinting method for obtaining chemically crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels with β‐cyclodextrin as template. The materials present high affinity toward the template that imprinted them, revealed by the higher sorption yield of β‐cyclodextrin and higher selectivity factors of the imprinted material, by comparing with the nonimprinted reference. The imprinting kinetic and mechanism has been demonstrated by adsorption studies, binding isotherms and Scatchard analysis and is in good correlation with the information regarding the morphology of the materials, determined by fluorescence microscopy and atomic force microscopy. By using a novel fluorescence spectroscopy method of the starting polymer solution, the optimum amount of imprinting template could be determined. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42024.
Weld line improvement of short fiber reinforced thermoplastics with a movable flow obstacle
Authors: Janko Marian , Spiegl Bernhard , Kaufmann Andreas , Lucyshyn Thomas , Holzer Clemens
Published: February 2015

Short fiber reinforced (SFR) thermoplastics are ideal materials from which to manufacture complex technical parts in high volumes with low energy expenditure. The orientation of the fibers, and hence their reinforcing effect, depends strongly on the nature of the cavity and on the injection molding process. One disadvantage of SFR thermoplastics is a significant decrease in mechanical properties in the areas of the weld lines, due to suboptimal fiber orientation as the melt streams reunite at these points. Common mold‐based and process‐based optimization techniques alter the fiber orientation after the formation of the weld line. The mold‐based approach presented here, on the other hand, operates at the time the weld line is formed: by redirecting the melt streams, it moves the weld line and improves the fiber orientation. A prototype mold is described, and samples produced from it with both standard and modified weld lines are compared with flawless specimens. The new technique yields a large rise in flexural strength and a smaller but significant improvement in tensile properties. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42025.
Effect of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium iodide containing electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) membrane electrolyte on the photovoltaic performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: E. Vijayakumar , A. Subramania , Fei Zhaofu , Dyson Paul J.
Published: February 2015

Electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF‐HFP) membrane was prepared from a solution of 16 wt % of PVdF‐HFP containing acetone/N,N‐dimethyl acetamide (7:3 wt %). The prepared electrospun PVdF‐HFP membrane (esPM) was then soaked in ionic liquid electrolyte containing 0.5M LiI, 0.05M I2, and 0.5M 4‐tert butylpyridine, 0.5M 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium iodide (BMImI) in acetonitrile to get electrospun PVdF‐HFP membrane electrolyte (esPME). The effect of various concentrations of BMImI containing esPME on ionic conductivity was studied by AC‐impedance measurements and the
diffusion co‐efficients was determined by linear sweep voltammetry. The photovoltaic performance of a DSSC fabricated using 0.5M BMImI containing electrospun PVdF‐HFP membrane electrolyte (0.5M BMImI‐esPME) has power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.42%. But the stability of the DSSC fabricated using 0.5M BMImI‐esPME was considerably superior to that fabricated using 0.5M BMImI containing liquid electrolyte (0.5M BMImI‐LE). © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42032.
Fetal Development of the Human Obturator Internus Muscle With Special Reference to the Tendon and Pulley
Authors: Naito Michiko , Suzuki Ryoji , Abe Hiroshi , Rodriguez‐Vazquez Jose Francisco , Murakami Gen , Aizawa Shin
Published: February 2015

To examine the development of the tendon pulley of the obturator internus muscle (OI), we observed paraffin sections of 26 human embryos and fetuses (∼6–15 weeks of gestation). The OI was characterized by early maturation of the proximal tendon in contrast to the delayed development of the distal tendon. At 6 weeks, the ischium corresponded to a simple round mass similar to the tuberosity in adults. At 8 weeks, before development of the definite lesser notch of the ischium, initial muscle fibers of the OI, running along the antero‐posterior axis, converged onto a thick and tight but short tendon running along the left‐right axis. Thus, at the beginning of development, the OI muscle belly and tendon met almost at a right angle. At 10 weeks, the OI tendon extended inferiorly along the sciatic nerve, but the distal part remained thin and loose and it was embedded in the gluteus medius tendon. At 15 weeks, in association with the gemellus muscles, the distal OI tendon was established. The mechanically strong sciatic nerve was first likely to catch the OI muscle fibers to provide a temporary insertion. Next, the ischium developing upward seemed to push the tendon to make the turn more acute along the cartilaginous ridge. Finally, the gemellus muscle appeared to provide inferior traction to the OI tendon for separation from the gluteus medius to create the final, independent insertion. Without such guidance, the piriformis tendon first attached to the OI tendon and then merged with the gluteus medius tendon. Anat Rec, 298:1282–1293, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human rights as a topic and guide forLISresearch and practice
Authors: Mathiesen Kay
Published: February 2015

In this global information age, accessing, disseminating, and controlling information is an increasingly important aspect of human life. Often, these interests are expressed in the language of human rights—for example, rights to expression, privacy, and intellectual property. As the discipline concerned with “facilitating the effective communication of desired information between human generator and human user” (Belkin, 1975, p. 22), library and information science (LIS) has a central role in facilitating communication about human rights and ensuring the respect for human rights in information services and systems. This paper surveys the literature at the intersection ofLISand human rights. To begin, an overview of human rights conventions and an introduction to human rights theory is provided. Then the intersections between LIS and human rights are considered. Three central areas of informational human rights—communication, privacy, and intellectual property—are discussed in detail. It is argued that communication rights in particular serve as a central linchpin in the system of human rights.
A study of social interaction during mobile information seeking
Authors: Tan Esther Meng‐Yoke , Goh Dion Hoe‐Lian
Published: February 2015

With the increasing importance of social media in people's lives, more mobile applications have incorporated features to support social networking activities. These applications enable communication between people, using features such as chatting and blogging. There is, however, little consideration of the collaboration between people during information seeking. Mobile applications should support the seeking, sharing, confirming, and validating of information systematically to help users complete their tasks and fulfill their information needs. To support information seeking, especially collaboratively as a group, there is a need to understand people's social interaction behavior. Using tourism as a domain, we conducted a diary study to look into tourists' social interaction during information seeking. Further, based on the diary study findings and current research, we describe a set of triggers that lead to collaboration for each step in the information‐seeking process. Here we present the social collaboration patterns between tourists and the people around them. Further, based on a diary study and current research, we describe a set of triggers that lead to collaboration for each step in the BIG6 information‐seeking process.
The VQR, Italy's second national research assessment: Methodological failures and ranking distortions
Authors: Abramo Giovanni , D'Angelo Ciriaco Andrea
Published: February 2015

The 2004–2010 VQR (Research Quality Evaluation), completed in July 2013, was Italy's second national research assessment exercise. The VQR performance evaluation followed a pattern also seen in other nations, as it was based on a selected subset of products. In this work, we identify the exercise's methodological weaknesses and measure the distortions that result from them in the university performance rankings. First, we create a scenario in which we assume the efficient selection of the products to be submitted by the universities and, from this, simulate a set of rankings applying the precise VQR rating criteria. Next, we compare these “VQR rankings” with those that would derive from the application of more‐appropriate bibliometrics. Finally, we extend the comparison to university rankings based on the entire scientific production for the period, as indexed in the Web of Science.
Comparison of drug information on consumer drug review sites versus authoritative health information websites
Authors: Chew Shu Wen , Khoo Christopher S.G.
Published: February 2015

Large amounts of health‐related information of different types are available on the web. In addition to authoritative health information sites maintained by government health departments and healthcare institutions, there are many social media sites carrying user‐contributed information. This study sought to identify the types of drug information available on consumer‐contributed drug review sites when compared with authoritative drug information websites. Content analysis was performed on the information available for nine drugs on three authoritative sites (RxList, eMC, and PDRhealth) as well as three drug review sites (WebMD, RateADrug, and PatientsLikeMe). The types of information found on authoritative sites but rarely on drug review sites include pharmacology, special population considerations, contraindications, and drug interactions. Types of information found only on drug review sites include drug efficacy, drug resistance experienced by long‐term users, cost of drug in relation to insurance coverage, availability of generic forms, comparison with other similar drugs and with other versions of the drug, difficulty in using the drug, and advice on coping with side effects. Drug efficacy ratings by users were found to be different across the three sites. Side effects were vividly described in context, with user assessment of severity based on discomfort and effect on their lives.
The “total cost of publication” in a hybrid open‐access environment: Institutional approaches to funding journal article‐processing charges in combination with subscriptions
Authors: Pinfield Stephen , Salter Jennifer , Bath Peter A.
Published: February 2015

As open‐access (OA) publishing funded by article‐processing charges (APCs) becomes more widely accepted, academic institutions need to be aware of the “total cost of publication” (TCP), comprising subscription costs plus APCs and additional administration costs. This study analyzes data from 23 UK institutions covering the period 2007–2014 modeling the TCP. It shows a clear rise in centrally managed APC payments from 2012 onward, with payments projected to increase further. As well as evidencing the growing availability and acceptance of OA publishing, these trends reflect particular UK policy developments and funding arrangements intended to accelerate the move toward OA publishing (“Gold” OA). Although the mean value of APCs has been relatively stable, there was considerable variation in APC prices paid by institutions since 2007. In particular, “hybrid” subscription/OA journals were consistently more expensive than fully OA journals. Most APCs were paid to large “traditional” commercial publishers who also received considerable subscription income. New administrative costs reported by institutions varied considerably. The total cost of publication modeling shows that APCs are now a significant part of the TCP for academic institutions, in 2013 already constituting an average of 10% of the TCP (excluding administrative costs).
Synthesis of Disaccharide Nucleosides by the O‐Glycosylation of Natural Nucleosides with Thioglycoside Donors
Authors: Aoki Shin , Fukumoto Taketo , Itoh Taiki , Kurihara Masayuki , Saito Shigeto , Komabiki Shin‐ya
Published: February 2015

Disaccharide nucleosides constitute an important group of naturally‐occurring sugar derivatives. In this study, we report on the synthesis of disaccharide nucleosides by the direct O‐glycosylation of nucleoside acceptors, such as adenosine, guanosine, thymidine, and cytidine, with glycosyl donors. Among the glycosyl donors tested, thioglycosides were found to give the corresponding disaccharide nucleosides in moderate to high chemical yields with the above nucleoside acceptors using p‐toluenesulfenyl chloride (TolSCl) and silver triflate (AgOTf) as promoters. The interaction of these promoters with nucleoside acceptors was examined by 1H NMR spectroscopic experiments.
A support vector machine‐based VVP wind retrieval method
Authors: Li Nan , Wei Ming , Mu Xiyu , Zhao Chang
Published: February 2015

Velocity volume processing (VVP) is a common wind retrieval method for single‐Doppler radar. However, hindered by the problem of the ill‐conditioned coefficient matrix, VVP method has not been applied effectively. In this paper, a support vector machine‐based VVP (SVM VVP) method is proposed to improve the VVP method. SVM VVP retrieves wind field through constructing a support vector regression machine for the radial velocity. The new method is applied to a real case, and the retrieval shows that SVM VVP can give accurate and high‐resolution results. It is helpful for studying wind fields of small‐scale precipitation systems.
A direct imaging search for close stellar and sub‐stellar companions to young nearby stars
Authors: Vogt N. , Mugrauer M. , Neuhäuser R. , Schmidt T. O. B. , Contreras‐Quijada A. , Schmidt J. G.
Published: February 2015

A total of 28 young nearby stars (ages ≤60 Myr) have been observed in the Ks‐band with the adaptive optics imager Naos‐Conica of the Very Large Telescope at the Paranal Observatory in Chile. Among the targets are ten visual binaries and one triple system at distances between 10 and 130 pc, all previously known. During a first observing epoch a total of 20 faint stellar or sub‐stellar companion‐candidates were detected around seven of the targets. These fields, as well as most of the stellar binaries, were re‐observed with the same instrument during a second epoch, about one year later. We present the astrometric observations of all binaries. Their analysis revealed that all stellar binaries are co‐moving. In two cases (HD 119022 AB and FG Aqr B/C) indications for significant orbital motions were found. However, all sub‐stellar companion candidates turned out to be non‐moving background objects except PZ Tel which is part of this project but whose results were published elsewhere. Detection limits were determined for all targets, and limiting masses were derived adopting three different age values; they turn out to be less than 10 Jupiter masses in most cases, well below the brown dwarf mass range. The fraction of stellar multiplicity and of the sub‐stellar companion occurrence in the star forming regions in Chamaeleon are compared to the statistics of our search, and possible reasons for the observed differences are discussed. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Classical Cepheids in the Galactic outer ring R1R ′2
Authors: Mel'nik A.M. , Rautiainen P. , Berdnikov L.N. , Dambis A.K. , Rastorguev A.S.
Published: February 2015

The kinematics and distribution of classical Cepheids within ∼3 kpc from the Sun suggest the existence of the outer ring R1R ′2 in the Galaxy. The optimum value of the solar position angle with respect to the major axis of the bar, θb, providing the best agreement between the distribution of Cepheids and model particles, is θb = 37° ±13°. The kinematical features obtained for Cepheids with negative galactocentric radial velocity VR are consistent with the solar location near the descending segment of the outer ring R2. The sharp rise of extinction toward of the Galactic center can be explained by the presence of the outer ring R1 near the Sun. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Axisymmetry vs. nonaxisymmetry of a Taylor‐Couette flow with azimuthal magnetic fields
Authors: Gellert M. , Rüdiger G.
Published: February 2015

The instability of a supercritical Taylor‐Couette flow of a conducting fluid with resting outer cylinder under the influence of a uniform axial electric current is investigated for magnetic Prandtl number Pm = 1. In the linear theory the critical Reynolds number for axisymmetric perturbations is not influenced by the current‐induced axisymmetric magnetic field but all axisymmetric magnetic perturbations decay. The nonaxisymmetric perturbations with m = 1 are excited even without rotation for large enough Hartmann numbers (“Tayler instability”). For slow rotation their growth rates scale with the Alfvén frequency of the magnetic field but for fast rotation they scale with the rotation rate of the inner cylinder. In the nonlinear regime the ratio of the energy of the magnetic m = 1 modes and the toroidal background field is very low for the non‐rotating Tayler instability but it strongly grows if differential rotation is present. For super‐Alfv´enic rotation the energies in the m = 1 modes of flow and field do not depend on the molecular viscosity, they are almost in equipartition and contain only 1.5 % of the centrifugal energy of the inner cylinder. The geometry of the excited magnetic field pattern is strictly nonaxisymmetric for slow rotation but it is of the mixed‐mode type for fast rotation – contrary to the situation which has been observed at the surface of Ap stars. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Social‐Emotional Correlates of Early Stage Social Information Processing Skills in Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Russo‐Ponsaran Nicole M. , McKown Clark , Johnson Jason K. , Allen Adelaide W. , Evans‐Smith Bernadette , Fogg Louis
Published: February 2015

Difficulty processing social information is a defining feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Yet the failure of children with ASD to process social information effectively is poorly understood. Using Crick and Dodge's model of social information processing (SIP), this study examined the relationship between social‐emotional (SE) skills of pragmatic language, theory of mind, and emotion recognition on the one hand, and early stage SIP skills of problem identification and goal generation on the other. The study included a sample of school‐aged children with and without ASD. SIP was assessed using hypothetical social situations in the context of a semistructured scenario‐based interview. Pragmatic language, theory of mind, and emotion recognition were measured using direct assessments. Social thinking differences between children with and without ASD are largely differences of quantity (overall lower performance in ASD), not discrepancies in cognitive processing patterns. These data support theoretical models of the relationship between SE skills and SIP. Findings have implications for understanding the mechanisms giving rise to SIP deficits in ASD and may ultimately inform treatment development for children with ASD. Autism Res 2015, 8: 486–496. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation of multi‐enzyme co‐immobilized nanoparticles by bis‐aryl hydrazone bond conjugation
Authors: Zhou Xiao , Liu Yan , Yuan Qipeng , Liang Hao
Published: February 2015

A novel multi‐enzyme co‐immobilized nanoparticle was prepared by the bis‐aryl hydrazone conjugation strategy for enhancing the overall reaction efficiency and specificity. It can be seen that the molar substitution ratios of succinimidyl 6‐hydrazinonicotinamid acetone hydrazone or succinimidyl 4‐formylbenzoate to glucose oxidase (GOX) or horseradish peroxidase (HRP) increased with the concentration of the linking reagents. The amount of the immobilized conjugates on the support was measured to be 22.8 ± 1.6 mg/g‐particle, and it meant that more than 90% of the GOX–HRP conjugates were successfully attached onto the polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles. Moreover, the immobilized bi‐enzymes conjugate on the PS nanoparticles increased about 1.6‐fold compared with that of free enzymes.
Evidence for Implicit Risk: Delay Facilitates the Processing of Uncertainty
Authors: Bixter Michael T. , Luhmann Christian C.
Published: February 2015

Humans and other animals discount the value of rewards over time. One explanation for this is that delayed rewards may be less certain than immediate rewards, what has been referred to as the implicit risk hypothesis. Although this explanation is widely accepted, little research has directly assessed the validity of the implicit risk hypothesis. In the current study, we present two experiments in which participants made decisions about rewards involving both delay and uncertainty. By manipulating the order in which information was presented, we were able to investigate whether delay information facilitates beliefs about uncertainty and vice versa. It was found that participants were more likely to prefer larger, delayed rewards when information about delay was presented before information about uncertainty than when the information was presented in the opposite order. Additionally, we describe a process model that implements the implicit risk hypothesis and show that it is consistent with the observed patterns of data. These results support the implicit risk hypothesis and suggest that information about delay facilitates the processing of information about uncertainty. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal risk factors for gastroschisis in Canada
Authors: Skarsgard Erik D. , Meaney Christopher , Bassil Kate , Brindle Mary , Arbour Laura , Moineddin Rahim ,   the Canadian Pediatric Surgery Network (CAPSNet)
Published: February 2015

Background

Gastroschisis is a congenital abdominal wall defect that occurs in one per 2200 pregnancies. Birth defect surveillance in Canada has shown that the prevalence of gastroschisis has increased threefold over the past 10 years. The purpose of this study was to compare maternal exposures data from a national gastroschisis registry with pregnancy exposures from vital statistics to understand maternal risk factor associations with the occurrence of gastroschisis.

Methods

Using common definitions, pregnancy cohorts were developed from two databases. The Canadian Pediatric Surgery Network database, a population‐based dataset was used to record maternal exposures for women who experienced a gastroschisis pregnancy, while a contemporaneous, geographically cross‐sectional “control” cohort of pregnant women and their exposures was developed from Canadian Community Health Survey data. Groups comparison of maternal risk factors was performed using univariate and multivariate logistic generalized estimating equation techniques.

Results

A total of 692 gastroschisis pregnancies (from Canadian Pediatric Surgery Network) and 4708 pregnancies from Canadian Community Health Survey were compared. Younger maternal age (odds ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.83–0.87; p < 0.0001), smoking (odds ratio, 2.86; 95% confidence interval, 2.22–3.66; p < 0.0001), a history of pregestational or gestational diabetes (odds ratio, 2.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.42–5.5; p = 0.0031), and use of medication to treat depression (odds ratio, 4.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.38–11.8; p = 0.011) emerged as significant associations with gastroschisis pregnancies.

Conclusion

Gastroschisis in Canada is associated with maternal risk factors, some of which are modifiable. Further studies into sociodemographic birth defect risk are necessary to allow targeted improvements in perinatal health service delivery and health policy. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 103:111–118, 2015 © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theoretical constructs of well‐being and their implications for education
Authors: Thorburn Malcolm
Published: February 2015

In the broad area of moral philosophy, critiques of well‐being values have notably increased since the 1980's. Often underpinning analysis are contrasting theories of well‐being, e.g. subjective constructs that value highly reflections on personal experiences and individual fulfillment, and objective theories that emphasise more through specific criteria the societal benefits of well‐being. Without detailed recourse to such theorising, education policy making has since the early 2000's onwards tried to tease out the relationship between thriving personally and showing moral integrity towards others via a number of rather superficial and dissimilar curriculum statements. The paper, in trying to improve coherence in this area, reviews contemporary critiques of well‐being and argues that a hybridised mix of subjective and objective influences would, if referenced by pupils' own reflective informed thoughts and emotional needs, represent the most productive prospect for education‐related developments. The priorities for achieving this form of progress begins by reviewing the main curriculum planning issues that merit analysis if well‐being theorising is to more closely connect with educational gains. Thereafter, the main challenge discussed is how teachers can maximise the benefits of pedagogical practices in holistic learning environments where there are clear connections between well‐being values, subject knowledge and pupils' previous learning experiences.
RNA aptamers as genetic control devices: The potential of riboswitches as synthetic elements for regulating gene expression
Authors: Berens Christian , Groher Florian , Suess Beatrix
Published: February 2015

RNA utilizes many different mechanisms to control gene expression. Among the regulatory elements that respond to external stimuli, riboswitches are a prominent and elegant example. They consist solely of RNA and couple binding of a small molecule ligand to the so‐called “aptamer domain” with a conformational change in the downstream “expression platform” which then determines system output. The modular organization of riboswitches and the relative ease with which ligand‐binding RNA aptamers can be selected in vitro against almost any molecule have led to the rapid and widespread adoption of engineered riboswitches as artificial genetic control devices in biotechnology and synthetic biology over the past decade. This review highlights proof‐of‐principle applications to demonstrate the versatility and robustness of engineered riboswitches in regulating gene expression in pro‐ and eukaryotes. It then focuses on strategies and parameters to identify aptamers that can be integrated into synthetic riboswitches that are functional in vivo, before finishing with a reflection on how to improve the regulatory properties of engineered riboswitches, so that we can not only further expand riboswitch applicability, but also finally fully exploit their potential as control elements in regulating gene expression.
Single‐walled carbon nanotubes as near‐infrared optical biosensors for life sciences and biomedicine
Authors: Jain Astha , Homayoun Aida , Bannister Christopher W. , Yum Kyungsuk
Published: February 2015

Single‐walled carbon nanotubes that emit photostable near‐infrared fluorescence have emerged as near‐infrared optical biosensors for life sciences and biomedicine. Since the discovery of their near‐infrared fluorescence, researchers have engineered single‐walled carbon nanotubes to function as an optical biosensor that selectively modulates its fluorescence upon binding of target molecules. Here we review the recent advances in the single‐walled carbon nanotube‐based optical sensing technology for life sciences and biomedicine. We discuss the structure and optical properties of single‐walled carbon nanotubes, the mechanisms for molecular recognition and signal transduction in single‐walled carbon nanotube complexes, and the recent development of various single‐walled carbon nanotube‐based optical biosensors. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges to translate this emerging technology into biomedical research and clinical use, including the biological safety of single‐walled carbon nanotubes. The advances in single‐walled carbon nanotube‐based near‐infrared optical sensing technology open up a new avenue for in vitro and in vivo biosensing with high sensitivity and high spatial resolution, beneficial for many areas of life sciences and biomedicine.
Directed evolution of phenylacetone monooxygenase as an active catalyst for the baeyer–villiger conversion of cyclohexanone to caprolactone
Authors: Parra Loreto P. , Acevedo Juan P. , Reetz Manfred T.
Published: February 2015

Phenylacetone monooxygenase (PAMO) is an exceptionally robust Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase, which makes it ideal for potential industrial applications. However, its substrate scope is limited, unreactive cyclohexanone being a prominent example. Such a limitation is unfortunate, because this particular transformation in an ecologically viable manner would be highly desirable, the lactone and the respective lactam being of considerable interest as monomers in polymer science. We have applied directed evolution in search of an active mutant for this valuable C‐C activating reaction. Using iterative saturation mutagenesis (ISM), several active mutants were evolved, with only a minimal trade‐off in terms of stability. The best mutants allow for quantitative conversion of 2 mM cyclohexanone within 1 h reaction time. In order to circumvent the NADP+ regeneration problem, whole E. coli resting cells were successfully applied. Molecular dynamics simulations and induced fit docking throw light on the origin of enhanced PAMO activity. The PAMO mutants constitute ideal starting points for future directed evolution optimization necessary for an industrial process. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 1354–1364. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Entwicklung von RNA‐basierten Impfstoffen
Authors: Roos Tilmann
Published: February 2015

Trotz substanzieller Verbesserungen in der Entwicklung von Influenzavakzinen bleiben die Herstellung und Verfügbarkeit der Impfstoffe suboptimal. mRNA‐basierte Impfstoffe bieten eine Alternative, da sie schnell, flexibel und skalierbar produziert werden können. Sogar nach thermischem Stress bleibt die Wirksamkeit des Impfstoffes voll erhalten und demonstriert so Stabilität der neuen Wirkstoffklasse. Die Fähigkeit der mRNA‐basierten Impfstoffe, eine langlebige sowohl humorale als auch zelluläre Immunität zu generieren, macht sie zu einer neuen Vakzin‐Plattform, die nicht nur in der Infektionsprophylaxe, sondern auch in der Tumortherapie zum Einsatz kommen kann.
Selbstreparatur in Natur und Technik
Authors: Speck Olga , Speck Thomas
Published: February 2015

Pflanzen haben im Laufe der Evolution mehrfach unabhängig voneinander Selbstreparaturmechanismen entwickelt. Seit Jahren wird in interdisziplinären Forschungsprojekten an der Entwicklung von bioinspirierten Materialien und Strukturen mit Selbstreparatureffekt gearbeitet. Vorbild für eine bionische selbstreparierende Schaumbeschichtung bei pneumatischen Systemen waren die parenchymatischen Reparaturzellen der Pfeifenwinde (Aristolochia macrophylla), die im Laufe des Wachstums entstehende Risse im Stängelinneren rasch versiegeln. Einen bisher nicht bekannten Selbstreparaturmechanismus zeigen die sukkulenten Blätter des Mittagblumengewächses Delosperma cooperi. Nach einer äußeren Verletzung bewegen sich die Blätter so lange, bis die Wunde ganz versiegelt ist. Mit der Beschreibung eines mathematischen Fünf‐Schalen‐Modells sind die Voraussetzungen für die Entwicklung eines selbstreparierenden technischen Schichtmaterials erfüllt.
Bakterienresistente Bananen für Ostafrika
Authors: Brennicke Axel
Published: February 2015

In Ostafrika sind Bananen ein Hauptnahrungsmittel, das meist von den vielen Kleinbauern produziert wird. Seit einigen Jahren breitet sich von Äthiopien her eine für Bananenstauden tödliche Infektion mit einem Bakterium aus. Die Züchtung resistenter Bananen ist äußerst schwierig, da Bananen über Stecklinge vermehrt werden. Jetzt zeigen Feldversuche mit genetisch veränderten Bananenpflanzen Erfolg. Die transgenen Pflanzen sollen den Kleinbauern kostenlos zur Verfügung gestellt werden.
Erlebniswelt Gartenteich: von Ringelnattern, Gelbrandkäfern und Libellen
Authors: Petrischak Hannes
Published: February 2015

Ein Gartenteich bietet über und unter Wasser eine Fülle von Möglichkeiten, Tiere zu beobachten. Wird er neu angelegt, finden sich meist schon nach wenigen Tagen die ersten Wasserwanzen, Käfer, Libellen und Amphibien ein. Eine ausgeprägte Zonierung mit Röhricht, Schwimm‐ und Tauchblattpflanzen sowie ein reich strukturiertes Umfeld mit Büschen und Steinen, die Versteck‐ und Sonnenplätze bieten, fördern die Artenvielfalt.
Consider rights of all involved in reports of sexual harassment, assault
Authors: Porter Michael
Published: February 2015

Colleges and universities want to make their campuses safe learning environments for all students, but instances of sexual harassment and assault undermine that goal. In addition, recent enforcement efforts made by the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights under Title IX reinforce the already existing incentive to address sexual assault and harassment, and Title IX compliance reduces legal exposure to complainants' claims.
Good crisis communications require preparation, strategy
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: February 2015

The public's perception of how well or badly your campus safety department handled any particular crisis has as much to do with how you communicated with stakeholders during and after the incident as it does with how the unit actually performed. That's according to David Demarest, who became the vice president of public affairs at Stanford University after a long public affairs career that included serving for two presidential administrations and major financial corporations.
Learn the ABCs of effective leadership
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: February 2015

As leader of your campus safety department, it's imperative that your officers and other staff members see you as such. But being seen as a true leader is about more than simply a title. It's about how you behave.
Microsphaerol and Seimatorone: Two New Compounds Isolated from the Endophytic Fungi, Microsphaeropsis sp. and Seimatosporium sp.
Authors: Hussain Hidayat , Root Natalia , Jabeen Farah , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed , Ahmad Manzoor , Mabood Fazal , Hassan Zahid , Shah Afzal , Green Ivan R. , Schulz Barbara , Krohn Karsten
Published: February 2015

A new polychlorinated triphenyl diether named microsphaerol (1), has been isolated from the endophtic fungus Microsphaeropsis sp. An intensive phytochemical investigation of the endophytic fungus Seimatosporium sp., led to the isolation of a new naphthalene derivative named seimatorone (2) and eight known compounds, i.e., 1‐(2,6‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐3‐hydroxybutan‐1‐one (3), 1‐(2,6‐dihydroxyphenyl)butan‐1‐one (4), 1‐(2‐hydroxy‐6‐methoxyphenyl)butan‐1‐one (5), 5‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one (6), 2,3‐dihydro‐5‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one (7), 8‐methoxynaphthalen‐1‐ol (8), nodulisporins A and B (9 and 10, resp.), and daldinol (11). The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic analysis including 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, COSY, HMQC, HMBC, and HR‐EI‐MS, while the structures of the known compounds were deduced from comparison of their spectral data with those in the literature. Preliminary studies revealed that microsphaerol (1) showed good antibacterial activities against B. Megaterium and E. coli, and good antilagal and antifungal activities against C. fusca, M. violaceum, respectively. On the other hand, seimatorone (2) exhibited moderate antibacterial, antialgal, and antifungal activities.
Butane‐2,3‐dione: the Key Contributor to Axillary and Foot Odor Associated with an Acidic Note
Authors: Hara Takeshi , Kyuka Ayumi , Shimizu Hironori
Published: February 2015

Human body odor, which contains several volatile organic compounds, possesses various odor qualities. To identify key volatile compounds responsible for the common unpleasant odors derived from human axillae and feet, the odor quality and intensity of 118 human axillae and feet were directly evaluated by sniffing, and odor compounds obtained from the subjects were identified. Furthermore, the sensory differences in odor intensity and quality with and without addition of butane‐2,3‐dione were evaluated by using the visual analog scale (VAS). An acidic odor was a common unpleasant note in human axillae and feet. Butane‐2,3‐dione was identified as a key compound associated with this odor. Strong positive correlations between the amount of butane‐2,3‐dione, and the odor intensities of axillae and feet were observed, and the addition of butane‐2,3‐dione solution to blended short‐chain fatty‐acid solutions caused significantly increased VAS values of axillary‐like odor, unpleasantness, and odor intensity compared to those of each solution without added butane‐2,3‐dione.
Glucose Conjugation of Anti‐HIV‐1 Oligonucleotides Containing Unmethylated CpG Motifs Reduces Their Immunostimulatory Activity
Authors: Reyes‐Darias José A. , Sánchez‐Luque Francisco J. , Morales Juan Carlos , Pérez‐Rentero Sonia , Eritja Ramón , Berzal‐Herranz Alfredo
Published: February 2015

Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) are short synthetic DNA polymers complementary to a target RNA sequence. They are commonly designed to halt a biological event, such as translation or splicing. ODNs are potentially useful therapeutic agents for the treatment of different human diseases. Carbohydrate–ODN conjugates have been reported to improve the cell‐specific delivery of ODNs through receptor mediated endocytosis. We tested the anti‐HIV activity and biochemical properties of the 5′‐end glucose‐conjugated GEM 91 ODN targeting the initiation codon of the gag gene of HIV‐1 RNA in cell‐based assays. The conjugation of a glucose residue significantly reduces the immunostimulatory effect without diminishing its potent anti‐HIV‐1 activity. No significant effects were observed in either ODN stability in serum, in vitro degradation of antisense DNA–RNA hybrids by RNase H, cell toxicity, cellular uptake and ability to interfere with genomic HIV‐1 dimerisation.
Construction of a Artificial Glutathione Peroxidase with Temperature‐Dependent Activity Based on a Supramolecular Graft Copolymer
Authors: Yin Yanzhen , Jiao Shufei , Wang Yun , Zhang Ruirui , Shi Zhongfeng , Hu Xiaoxi
Published: February 2015

A supramolecular artificial glutathione peroxidase (PNIPAM‐CD‐g‐Te) was prepared based on a supramolecular graft copolymer. PNIPAM‐CD‐g‐Te was constructed by supramolecular host–guest self‐assembly. Significantly, PNIPAM‐CD‐g‐Te displayed noticeable temperature‐dependent catalytic activity and typical saturation kinetics behavior. It was also proved that the change in the self‐assembled structure of PNIPAM‐CD‐g‐Te during the temperature‐dependent process played a significant role in the temperature‐dependent catalytic behavior. The construction of PNIPAM‐CD‐g‐Te based on supramolecular graft copolymer endows artificial GPx with temperature‐dependent catalytic ability, enriched catalytic centers, and homogeneously distributed catalytic centers. This work bodes well for the development of other biologically related host–guest supramolecular biomaterials.
Structure‐Based Design of Potent Small‐Molecule Binders to the S‐Component of the ECF Transporter for Thiamine
Authors: Swier Lotteke J. Y. M. , Monjas Leticia , Guskov Albert , de Voogd Alrik R. , Erkens Guus B. , Slotboom Dirk J. , Hirsch Anna K. H.
Published: February 2015

Energy‐coupling factor (ECF) transporters are membrane‐protein complexes that mediate vitamin uptake in prokaryotes. They bind the substrate through the action of a specific integral membrane subunit (S‐component) and power transport by hydrolysis of ATP in the three‐subunit ECF module. Here, we have studied the binding of thiamine derivatives to ThiT, a thiamine‐specific S‐component. We designed and synthesized derivatives of thiamine that bind to ThiT with high affinity; this allowed us to evaluate the contribution of the functional groups to the binding affinity. We determined six crystal structures of ThiT in complex with our derivatives. The structure of the substrate‐binding site in ThiT remains almost unchanged despite substantial differences in affinity. This work indicates that the structural organization of the binding site is robust and suggests that substrate release, which is required for transport, requires additional changes in conformation in ThiT that might be imposed by the ECF module.
Higher‐Order Human Telomeric G‐Quadruplex DNA Metalloenzymes Enhance Enantioselectivity in the Diels–Alder Reaction
Authors: Li Yinghao , Jia Guoqing , Wang Changhao , Cheng Mingpan , Li Can
Published: February 2015

Short human telomeric (HT) DNA sequences form single G‐quadruplex (G4) units and exhibit structure‐based stereocontrol for a series of reactions. However, for more biologically relevant higher‐order HT G4‐DNAs (beyond a single G4 unit), the catalytic performances are unknown. Here, we found that higher‐order HT G4‐DNA copper metalloenzymes (two or three G4 units) afford remarkably higher enantioselectivity (>90 % ee) and a five‐ to sixfold rate increase, compared to a single G4 unit, for the Diels–Alder reaction. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and enzymatic kinetic studies revealed that the distinct catalytic function between single and higher‐order G4‐DNA copper metalloenzymes can be attributed to different CuII coordination environments and substrate specificity. Our finding suggests that, like protein enzymes and ribozymes, higher‐order structural organization is crucial for G4‐DNA‐based catalysis.
Formation and Abundance of 5‐Hydroxymethylcytosine in RNA
Authors: Huber Sabrina M. , van Delft Pieter , Mendil Lee , Bachman Martin , Smollett Katherine , Werner Finn , Miska Eric A. , Balasubramanian Shankar
Published: February 2015

RNA methylation is emerging as a regulatory RNA modification that could have important roles in the control and coordination of gene transcription and protein translation. Herein, we describe an in vivo isotope‐tracing methodology to demonstrate that the ribonucleoside 5‐methylcytidine (m5C) is subject to oxidative processing in mammals, forming 5‐hydroxymethylcytidine (hm5C) and 5‐formylcytidine (f5C). Furthermore, we have identified hm5C in total RNA from all three domains of life and in polyA‐enriched RNA fractions from mammalian cells. This suggests m5C oxidation is a conserved process that could have critical regulatory functions inside cells.
Managing childhood problems
Authors: Laptook Rebecca
Published: February 2015

Ally follows her mother wherever she goes. Lately, Ally's been more tearful about leaving for school in the morning and keeps complaining that her stomach hurts. Ally always thinks she's getting sick and worries every time she is around anyone who coughs or sneezes.
Brief observation not adequate to detect autism risk in young children
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2015

Autism spectrum disorder doesn't manifest itself suddenly; symptoms appear over time, with gaps between typical and atypical development widening as the child gets older. Children have both typical and atypical behaviors, but little is known about what the ratio of these behaviors is during the 10‐minute timespan of an average primary care visit.
“Callous‐unemotional” conduct disorder subgroup: Difficult to treat
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2015

Conduct disorder in youth is associated with an increased risk for substance abuse, criminal behavior, and school problems; it also creates suffering and financial costs. A review from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) summarizes current data and looks at promising areas for research. Because treatment is usually focused on symptoms and not underlying problems, the researchers also highlighted treatments. The focus is on two subgroups of conduct disorder — youths who are “callous‐unemotional” and youths who are not.
Finally, effective, long‐term prevention of adult antisocial behavior
Authors: Fritz Gregory K.
Published: February 2015

Slowly but inexorably, the concept of prevention of psychiatric illness is gaining traction in the United States. In the past, although no one seriously argued against the desirability of preventing mental health problems before they become disabling disorders, the appeal has been more theoretical than practical. Overall, 75% of our massive health care expenditures are attributable to chronic conditions, but only 3% of the U.S. health care dollar is estimated to be spent on any sort of prevention. A recent study reported by Kenneth Dodge and colleagues in the January issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry provides impetus to accelerate the application of interventions in childhood and adolescence to reduce crime and psychopathology in adulthood.
Elevated biomarkers and contrast‐induced acute kidney failure: What comes first the chicken or the egg?
Authors: Belardi Jorge A. , Albertal Mariano
Published: February 2015

Key Points

Contrast‐induced acute kidney failure after primary angioplasty bears a poor short‐ and long‐term prognosis.

High baseline B‐type natriuretic peptide levels are associated with contrast‐induced acute kidney failure.

The risk of contrast‐induced acute kidney failure parallels mortality risk in patient presenting with acute myocardial infarction.
Can femoral access bleeding outcomes be improved?
Authors: Hillegass William B. , Brott Brigitta C.
Published: February 2015

Key Points

In the absence of randomized trials, the role of vascular closure devices as a bleeding avoidance strategy compared to manual compression in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention remains poorly defined.

Vascular closure devices in a propensity adjusted observational analysis were associated with one less major bleed for every 32 STEMI patients closed [95% CI: 20, 77].

Adjuncts to technique coupled with vascular closure devices may have the potential to improve femoral access safety to the level of radial access.
TAVI mixed with acute kidney injury: A recipe for increased mortality
Authors: Davidson Laura , Davidson Charles J.
Published: February 2015

Key Points

Acute kidney injury (AKI) following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a significant predictor and additive to the EuroSCORE as a determinant of TAVI mortality.

Baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), BMI, and major vascular bleeding are independent predictors of decline in eGFR following TAVI.

Preimplant identification of patients at high risk for AKI is mandatory. Utilization of preventive measures should include contrast minimization, staging the preprocedure evaluation, avoidance of hypotension, and minimizing vascular complications.
How to improve your “STAR quality”
Authors: Uretsky Barry F. , Carlino Mauro
Published: February 2015

Key Points

The authors suggest that “bail‐out” STAR subintimal dissection/re‐entry technique may be improved by delaying of stenting after the initial procedure.

Deferring stenting for 2–3 months after the STAR procedure decreases the stent length and may decrease major adverse clinical outcomes.

Deferred stenting has similar incidence of target vessel revascularization as immediate stenting with the bailout STAR technique.