bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The threat of moral transgression: The impact of group membership and moral opportunity
Authors: van der Toorn Jojanneke , Ellemers Naomi , Doosje Bertjan
Published: May 2015

When other ingroup members behave immorally, people's motivation to maintain a moral group image may cause them to experience increased threat and act defensively in response. In the current research, we investigated people's reactions to others' misconduct and examined the effect of group membership and the possible threat‐reducing function of moral opportunity—the prospect of being able to re‐establish the group's moral image. In Study 1, students who were confronted with fellow students' plagiarism and who received an opportunity to improve their group's morality reported feeling less threatened than students who did not receive such opportunity. In Study 2, students reacted to a recent academic fraud case, which either implicated an ingroup (scholar in their own discipline) or an outgroup member (scholar in another discipline). Results indicated that participants experienced more threat when an ingroup (versus an outgroup) member had committed the moral transgression. However, as hypothesized, this was not the case when moral opportunity was provided. Hence, the threat‐reducing effect of moral opportunity was replicated. Additionally, participants generally were more defensive in response to ingroup (versus outgroup) moral failure and less defensive when moral opportunity was present (versus absent). Together, these findings suggest that the reduction of threat due to moral opportunity may generally help individuals take constructive action when the behavior of fellow group members discredits the group's moral image.
Autonomic and brain responses associated with empathy deficits in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Gu Xiaosi , Eilam‐Stock Tehila , Zhou Thomas , Anagnostou Evdokia , Kolevzon Alexander , Soorya Latha , Hof Patrick R. , Friston Karl J. , Fan Jin
Published: May 2015

Accumulating evidence suggests that autonomic signals and their cortical representations are closely linked to emotional processes, and that related abnormalities could lead to social deficits. Although socio‐emotional impairments are a defining feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), empirical evidence directly supporting the link between autonomic, cortical, and socio‐emotional abnormalities in ASD is still lacking. In this study, we examined autonomic arousal indexed by skin conductance responses (SCR), concurrent cortical responses measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging, and effective brain connectivity estimated by dynamic causal modeling in seventeen unmedicated high‐functioning adults with ASD and seventeen matched controls while they performed an empathy‐for‐pain task. Compared to controls, adults with ASD showed enhanced SCR related to empathetic pain, along with increased neural activity in the anterior insular cortex, although their behavioral empathetic pain discriminability was reduced and overall SCR was decreased. ASD individuals also showed enhanced correlation between SCR and neural activities in the anterior insular cortex. Importantly, significant group differences in effective brain connectivity were limited to greater reduction in the negative intrinsic connectivity of the anterior insular cortex in the ASD group, indicating a failure in attenuating anterior insular responses to empathetic pain. These results suggest that aberrant interoceptive precision, as indexed by abnormalities in autonomic activity and its central representations, may underlie empathy deficits in ASD. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3323–3338, 2015. © 2015 The Authors Human Brain Mapping Published byWiley Periodicals, Inc.
Creating Comic Books in Nigeria
Authors: Bitz Michael , Emejulu Obiajulu
Published: May 2015

This article is an international reflection on literacy, creativity, and student engagement. The authors collaborated to help Nigerian youths and their teachers develop, design, and share original comic books. By leveraging student engagement for literacy learning, the authors highlighted the crucial role of creativity in the classroom. The Nigerian educators—some of whom had never before heard of comic books—became advocates of a new pathway to literacy. Their success is especially remarkable in the face of many adversities, including an unstable power supply, lack of resources, security concerns, and low wages for teachers. The perseverance of these educators is a testament to their passion for teaching and learning, and a lesson for everyone in the worldwide effort to promote literacy.
A method for estimating the glomerular filtration rate in conscious monkeys
Authors: Satoh Hiroshi , Nomiya Nana , Imai Daiki , Sato Shigeru , Sakurai Ken , Takasuna Kiyoshi , Furuhama Kazuhisa
Published: May 2015

To establish a method for estimating the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in conscious monkeys, the radiographic contrast medium iodixanol and the standard agent inulin were coadministered as tracers to male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) as a bolus injection; blood was collected after 60, 90 and 120 min. An equation based on a single‐blood‐sample method derived from Jacobsson's formula was prepared using the data from healthy and saline‐ and gentamicin‐treated monkeys by a multisample strategy with iodixanol. The GFR using the equation with iodixanol was in agreement with that from the multisample method with inulin or iodixanol. When the GFR decreased to more than 60% of the basal reference level, serum creatinine concentrations tended to increase, whereas serum blood urea nitrogen concentrations fluctuated. The results suggest that the single‐sample‐blood method with iodixanol is a practical tool for estimating the monkey GFR in a toxicological research setting therefore minimizing animal sufferings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vapour phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol to propanediols over Cu/SBA‐15 catalysts
Authors: Harisekhar Mitta , Pavan Kumar Vanama , Shanthi Priya Samudrala , Chary Komandur VR
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Biomass‐derived glycerol is emerging as a renewable, cheap and versatile feedstock for the production of a variety of chemicals and fuels.

RESULTS

Cu catalysts with varying copper loadings ranging from 2.5 to 20 wt% supported on SBA‐15 were investigated for the vapour phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol to propanediols. The dispersion of Cu and copper metal area on mesoporous SBA‐15 was determined by pulse N2O decomposition measurements. The X‐ray diffraction patterns suggest that the presence of highly dispersed copper oxide species at lower Cu loadings (≤5Cu) and as crystalline CuO phase at higher Cu loadings (≥10 wt% Cu). The acidity of the catalysts measured by NH3 ‐TPD method reveals that the acidity of the samples increases with increase of copper loading up to 5 wt% and decreases at higher copper loadings. The catalytic functionalities during the vapour phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol to propanediols are correlated with the copper oxide dispersion and also with the acidic properties

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, 5Cu/SBA‐15 catalyst was found to consist of highly dispersed copper oxide on the support, evidenced by XRD, TPR and N2O decomposition studies. This catalyst exhibits high glycerol conversion (90%) and 84% selectivity of 1,2‐propanediol. The activity results are well correlated with Cu dispersion and acidity of the catalysts. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Generation and characterization of osteochondral grafts with human nasal chondrocytes
Authors: Barandun Marina , Iselin Lukas Daniel , Santini Francesco , Pansini Michele , Scotti Celeste , Baumhoer Daniel , Bieri Oliver , Studler Ueli , Wirz Dieter , Haug Martin , Jakob Marcel , Schaefer Dirk Johannes , Martin Ivan , Barbero Andrea
Published: May 2015

We investigated whether nasal chondrocytes (NC) can be used to generate composite constructs with properties necessary for the repair of osteochondral (OC) lesions, namely maturation, integration and capacity to recover from inflammatory burst. OC grafts were fabricated by combining engineered cartilage tissues (generated by culturing NC or articular chondrocytes – AC – onto Chondro‐Gide® matrices) with devitalized spongiosa cylinders (Tutobone®). OC tissues were then exposed to IL‐1β for three days and cultured for additional 2 weeks in the absence of IL‐1β. Cartilage maturation extent was assessed (immune) histologically, biochemically and by delayed gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) while cartilage/bone integration was assessed using a peel‐off mechanical test. The use of NC as compared to AC allowed for more efficient cartilage matrix accumulation and superior integration of the cartilage/bone layers. dGEMRIC and biochemical analyzes of the OC constructs showed a reduced glycosaminoglycan (GAG) contents upon IL‐1β administration. Cartilaginous matrix contents and integration forces returned to baseline up on withdrawal of IL‐1β. By having a cartilage layer well developed and strongly integrated to the subchondral layer, OC tissues generated with NC may successfully engraft in an inflammatory post‐surgery joint environment. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1111–1119, 2015.
Microfinance Products and Service Quality in Financial and Quasi‐Financial Institutions in China
Authors: Chan Sow Hup , Lin Jason Jianxiong
Published: May 2015

‘Mystery shopping’ can be a useful diagnostic tool for banking regulators to monitor whether financial and quasi‐financial institutions are operating within the legal regulatory framework, while microfinance service providers can use it to develop innovative yet attractively priced financial products and services.
Effects of applying molasses, lactic acid bacteria and propionic acid on fermentation quality, aerobic stability and in vitro gas production of total mixed ration silage prepared with oat–common vetch intercrop on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen Lei , Guo Gang , Yuan Xianjun , Zhang Jie , Li Junfeng , Shao Tao
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of molasses, lactic acid bacteria and propionic acid on the fermentation quality, aerobic stability and in vitro gas production of total mixed ration (TMR) silage prepared with oat–common vetch intercrop on the Tibetan plateau. TMR (436 g kg−1 dry matter (DM)) was ensiled with six experimental treatments: (1) no additives (control); (2) molasses (M); (3) an inoculant (Lactobacillus plantarum) (L); (4) propionic acid (P); (5) molasses + propionic acid (MP); (6) inoculant + propionic acid (LP).

RESULT

All silages were well preserved with low pH (< 4.19) and NH3‐N contents, and high lactic acid contents after ensiling for 45 days. L and PL silages underwent a more efficient fermentation than silages without L. P and MP silages inhibited lactic acid production. Under aerobic conditions, M and L silage reduced aerobic stability for 15 and 74 h, respectively. All silages that had propionic acid in their treatments markedly (P < 0.05) improved the aerobic stability. After 72 h incubation, all additives treatments increased (P < 0.05) the 72 h cumulative gas production and in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD) as compared with the control. L treatment decreased (P < 0.05) in vitro neutral detergent fibre degradability.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that TMR prepared with oat–common vetch intercrop can be well preserved. Although propionic acid is compatible with lactic acid bacteria, and when used together, they had minor effects on fermentation, aerobic stability and in vitro digestibility of TMR silage prepared with oat–common vetch intercrop. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Robot‐assisted laparoscopic hiatal hernia and antireflux surgery
Authors: Tolboom R.C. , Broeders I.A.M.J. , Draaisma W.A.
Published: May 2015

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common disorder of the GE‐junction that allows gastric acid to enter the esophagus. Surgery is indicated when the presence of the disease is objectively documented. The laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication is the preferred treatment of GERD. There is no clear advantage in robotic assistance for primary antireflux surgery. In our center we find the robot to be of added value for redo surgery or large and giant hiatal repair. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:266–270. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functionalization of Reactive End Groups in Surface‐Initiated Kumada Catalyst‐Transfer Polycondensation
Authors: Huddleston N. Eric , Roy Anandi , Bilbrey Jenna A. , Zhao Yiping , Locklin Jason
Published: May 2015

Surface‐initiated Kumada‐catalyst transfer polycondensation (SI‐KCTP) has become the preferred method for fabricating surface‐bound conjugated polymer thin films. Here, the chain‐growth character of SI‐KCTP is exploited to allow for re‐initiation of surface‐bound films. Additionally, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is shown to be a powerful tool in the analysis of surface‐bound intermediates.
POLY(N‐VINYLPYRROLIDONE) PROTECTED GOLD AND SILVER NANOPARTICLES: SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND CATALYTIC PROPERTIES
Authors: Ibrayeva Zhanar , Baigaziyeva Elmira , Yesmurzayeva Nurlykyz , Tatykhanova Gulnur , Yashkarova Marziya , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt
Published: May 2015

Gold (AuNPs) and silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles protected by poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) and β‐Cyclodextrine (β‐CD) were prepared by Turkevich method and “one‐pot” synthetic protocol. Absorption spectra, size, morphology, structure and thermal properties of AuNPs and AgNPs were studied by UV‐Vis spectroscopy, DLS, SEM, TEM and DSC. According to DLS measurement the average size of AuNPs stabilized by PVP in aqueous solution is varied from 10 to 25 nm while the same parameter of AgNPs stabilized by PVP and β‐CD was in the range of 7‐25 nm. PVP and β‐CD protected AuNPs and AgNPs were deposited on aluminum and zinc oxides by impregnation method. It was found that the amount of AuNPs‐PVP deposited onto Al2O3 and ZnO does not exceed 0.07‐0.1%. SEM and TEM images reveal that the average size of AuNPs‐PVP deposited on the surface of Al2O3 is arranged between 8 and 30 nm and coincides well with DLS measurement. The catalytic activity of polymer‐protected AuNPs and AgNPs supported on the surface of Al2O3 and ZnO was evaluated with respect to decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. The optimal conditions for H2O2 decomposition in relation to catalysts amount, concentration of substrate and temperature was found. The rate of H2O2 decomposition in the presence of Al2O3/AuNPs‐PVP exhibits an induction period, is dependentupon the molecular weight of PVP and increases in the following order: PVP‐350 kD > PVP‐40 kD > PVP‐10 kD. The H2O2 decomposition rate in the presence of Al2O3/AuNPs‐PVP is much higher than that of Al2O3/AgNPs‐PVP.
Synthesis of Poly(TEMPO‐Substituted Glycidyl Ether) by Utilizing t‐BuOK/18‐Crown‐6 for an Organic Cathode‐Active Material
Authors: Sato Kan , Sukegawa Takashi , Oyaizu Kenichi , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: May 2015

A nitroxide radical‐substituted polyether, poly(TEMPO‐substituted glycidyl ether) (PTGE), was synthesized using a potassium tert‐butoxide/18‐crown‐6 initiator. The presence of 18‐crown‐6 effected significant improvement in the reactivity of the chain end, thus allowing the polymerization to proceed at moderate temperatures to suppress the deactivation of the pendant nitroxide group. A high molecular‐weight polyether with a theoretical radical concentration was first obtained in high yield. Charging and discharging cyclability was much improved by cross‐linking, which helped the electrode‐active material stay on a current collector during the electrolysis. The polymer/vapor‐grown carbon nanofiber composite electrode exhibited a redox capacity comparable to the formula weight‐based theoretical density over 103 cycles and fast charging/discharging capability up to a rate of 60 C which corresponded to full charging and discharging in 60 s. The redox capacity was almost maintained for a composite layer with a remarkably high polymer ratio of 90 %, which demonstrated the presence of effective percolation network of the carbon nanofiber due likely to the affinity of the polyether to the carbon material.
ACONITIC ACID: OLD COMPOUND, NEW USES
Authors: Dorman Derek , Madsen Lee , Day Donal
Published: May 2015

Biodegradable polyester was synthesized from aconitic acid, glycerol and cinnamic acid. The resulting polymer could be cured to various degrees of crosslinking affording the ability to adjust the rate of degradation. The monomer stoichiometry can be adjusted to change the swelling characteristics of the polymer.
Macromolecular Acrylamide Complexes of Rhodium: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Kalinina Kseniia S. , Golubeva Nina D. , Dzhardimalieva Gulzhian I. , Pomogailo Anatoly D.
Published: May 2015

Summary Novel acrylamide complexes of Rh(III) nitrate were synthesized and characterized. They possess the ability to polymerize in the frontal regime in a condensed state as a result of thermal initiation. Polymerization was shown to occur directly in the melting region of a complex at 130−140°C. The synthesis of the acrylamide complex of Rh(III) nitrate on the surface of inorganic supports followed by polymerization and reduction results in the formation of a polymer inorganic composite with inclusions of Rh nanoparticles stabilized by the polymer matrix on the support surface.
What does the beck depression inventory measure in myocardial infarction patients? a psychometric approach using item response theory and person‐fit
Authors: Wardenaar Klaas J. , Wanders Rob B.K. , Roest Annelieke M. , Meijer Rob R. , De Jonge Peter
Published: May 2015

Observed associations between depression following myocardial infarction (MI) and adverse cardiac outcomes could be overestimated due to patients’ tendency to over report somatic depressive symptoms. This study was aimed to investigate this issue with modern psychometrics, using item response theory (IRT) and person‐fit statistics to investigate if the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) measures depression or something else among MI‐patients.

An IRT‐model was fit to BDI‐data of 1135 MI patients. Patients’ adherence to this IRT‐model was investigated with person‐fit statistics. Subgroups of “atypical” (low person‐fit) and “prototypical” (high person‐fit) responders were identified and compared in terms of item‐response patterns, psychiatric diagnoses, socio‐demographics and somatic factors. In the IRT model, somatic items had lower thresholds compared to depressive mood/cognition items. Empirically identified “atypical” responders (n = 113) had more depressive mood/cognitions, scored lower on somatic items and more often had a Comprehensive International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) depressive diagnosis than “prototypical” responders (n = 147). Additionally, “atypical” responders were younger and more likely to smoke. In conclusion, the BDI measures somatic symptoms in most MI patients, but measures depression in a subgroup of patients with atypical response patterns. The presented approach to account for interpersonal differences in item responding could help improve the validity of depression assessments in somatic patients. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐institutional validation of a novel textural analysis tool for preoperative stratification of suspected thyroid tumors on diffusion‐weighted MRI
Authors: Brown Anna M. , Nagala Sidhartha , McLean Mary A. , Lu Yonggang , Scoffings Daniel , Apte Aditya , Gonen Mithat , Stambuk Hilda E. , Shaha Ashok R. , Tuttle R. Michael , Deasy Joseph O. , Priest Andrew N. , Jani Piyush , Shukla‐Dave Amita , Griffiths John
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspirate cytology fails to diagnose many malignant thyroid nodules; consequently, patients may undergo diagnostic lobectomy. This study assessed whether textural analysis (TA) could noninvasively stratify thyroid nodules accurately using diffusion‐weighted MRI (DW‐MRI).

Methods

This multi‐institutional study examined 3T DW‐MRI images obtained with spin echo echo planar imaging sequences. The training data set included 26 patients from Cambridge, United Kingdom, and the test data set included 18 thyroid cancer patients from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, New York, USA). Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were compared over regions of interest (ROIs) defined on thyroid nodules. TA, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and feature reduction were performed using the 21 MaZda‐generated texture parameters that best distinguished benign and malignant ROIs.

Results

Training data set mean ADC values were significantly different for benign and malignant nodules (P = 0.02) with a sensitivity and specificity of 70% and 63%, respectively, and a receiver operator characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) of 0.73. The LDA model of the top 21 textural features correctly classified 89/94 DW‐MRI ROIs with 92% sensitivity, 96% specificity, and an AUC of 0.97. This algorithm correctly classified 16/18 (89%) patients in the independently obtained test set of thyroid DW‐MRI scans.

Conclusion

TA classifies thyroid nodules with high sensitivity and specificity on multi‐institutional DW‐MRI data sets. This method requires further validation in a larger prospective study. Magn Reson Med, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Magn Reson Med 75:1708–1716, 2016. © 2015 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance.
Health professionals’ and patients’ perspectives on pelvic floor muscle training adherence—2011 ICS State‐of‐the‐Science Seminar research paper IV of IV
Authors: Frawley Helena C. , McClurg Doreen , Mahfooza Aishath , Hay‐Smith Jean , Dumoulin Chantale
Published: May 2015

Aims

There is scant information on pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) adherence barriers and facilitators. A web‐based survey was conducted (1) to investigate whether responses from health professionals and the public broadly reflected findings in the literature, (2) if responses differed between the two groups, and (3) to identify new research directions.

Methods

Health professional and public surveys were posted on the ICS website. PFMT adherence barriers and facilitators were divided into four categories: physical/condition, patient, therapy, and social‐economic. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics from quantitative data and thematic data analysis for qualitative data.

Results

Five hundred and fifteen health professionals and 51 public respondents participated. Both cohorts felt “patient‐related factors” constituted the most important adherence barrier, but differed in their rankings of short‐ and long‐term barriers. Health professionals rated “patient‐related” and the public “therapy‐related” factors as the most important adherence facilitator. Both ranked “perception of PFMT benefit” as the most important long‐term facilitator. Contrary to published findings, symptom severity was not ranked highly. Neither cohort felt the barriers nor facilitators differed according to PFM condition (urinary/faecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain); however, a large number of health professionals felt differences existed across age, gender, and ethnicity. Half of respondents in both cohorts felt research barriers and facilitators differed from those in clinical practice.

Conclusions

An emphasis on “patient‐related” factors, ahead of “condition‐specific” and “therapy‐related,” affecting PFMT adherence barriers was evident. Health professionals need to be aware of the importance of long‐term patient perception of PFMT benefits and consider enabling strategies. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:???–???, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
2014 consensus statement on improving pelvic floor muscle training adherence: International Continence Society 2011 State‐of‐the‐Science Seminar
Authors: Dumoulin Chantale , Hay‐Smith Jean , Frawley Helena , McClurg Doreen , Alewijnse Dianne , Bo Kari , Burgio Kathryn , Chen Shu‐Yueh , Chiarelli Pauline , Dean Sarah , Hagen Suzanne , Herbert Julia , Mahfooza Aishath , Mair Frances , Stark Diane , Van Kampen Marijke
Published: May 2015

Aims

To summarize the findings and “expert‐panel” consensus of the State‐of‐the‐Science Seminar on pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) adherence held prior to the 41st International Continence Society scientific meeting, Glasgow, 2011.

Methods

Summaries of research and theory about PFMT adherence (based on a comprehensive literature search) were presented by subject experts at the 2011 Seminar to generate discussion and guidance for clinical practice and future research. Supplemental research, post‐seminar, resulted in, three review papers summarizing: (1) relevant behavioral theories, (2) adherence measurement, determinants and effectiveness of PFMT adherence interventions, and (3) patients' PFMT experiences. A fourth, reported findings from an online survey of health professionals and the public.

Results

Few high‐quality studies were found. Paper I summarizes 12 behavioral frameworks relevant to theoretical development of PFMT adherence interventions and strategies. Findings in Paper II suggest both PFMT self‐efficacy and intention‐to‐adhere predict PFMT adherence. Paper III identified six potential adherence modifiers worthy of further investigation. Paper IV found patient‐related factors were the biggest adherence barrier to PFMT adherence.

Conclusion

Given the lack of high‐quality studies, the conclusions were informed by expert opinion. Adherence is central to short‐ and longer‐term PFMT effect. More attention and explicit reporting is needed regarding: (1) applying health behavior theory in PFMT program planning; (2) identifying adherence determinants; (3) developing and implementing interventions targeting known adherence determinants; (4) using patient‐centred approaches to evaluating adherence barriers and facilitators; (5) measuring adherence, including refining and testing instruments; and (6) testing the association between adherence and PFMT outcome. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:???–???, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conjugated fluorescent polymer sensor for proteolytic activity detection with designed specificity
Authors: Komarova Elena , Bogomolova Anastasia , Aldissi Matt
Published: May 2015

A portable fluorescence assay for direct endopeptidase activity detection has been developed with the use of a cyclophane‐based conductive conjugated fluorescent polymer and peptide substrates. The substrates, carrying internal quenching amino acid, were designed to be cleaved in a sequence‐specific manner by a protease of interest. Intact substrates were incapable of quenching the fluorescence of the polymer due to steric constraints. Upon specific cleavage, the quencher became exposed and could interact with the ring structure of the fluorescent polymer, disrupting the conjugation and quenching the fluorescence along the polymer chain. The approach was developed using a model Glu‐C endopeptidase from Staphylococcus aureus strain V8, detected in the picomolar to micromolar concentration range. The developed assay was tested for the detection of endopeptidase activity of botulinum toxin. The feasibility study showed that botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT)‐A could be detected down to picomolar concentration, with limit of detection of 5 pg, or 33 amol in 5 µL of sample, and a total assay time under 2 h. The assay exhibited high specificity and no cross‐reactivity with BoNT‐B was detected. Following this proof‐of‐concept work, the assay can be further optimized and expanded to differentiate between various botulinum toxin serotypes in their active proteolytic form, or modified for detection of proteases with other specificities. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Scent properties by natural fragrance microencapsulation for footwear applications
Authors: Sánchez‐Navarro M Magdalena , Pérez‐Limiñana M Ángeles , Arán‐Ais Francisca , Orgilés‐Barceló César
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to develop footwear materials and footwear packaging with scent properties using microencapsulated fragrances from essential oils. For that purpose, gelatine–carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and melamine–formaldehyde (MF) resin‐based microcapsules containing limonene were synthesised using complex coacervation and in situ polymerisation processes, respectively. The microcapsules were characterised using various experimental techniques and applied to footwear materials (leather and textile) as well as to paperboard as packaging material to evaluate their performance. The microcapsule durability under various conditions, such as rubbing and ironing, was analysed in order to simulate shoe manufacturing and shoe wearing conditions. The characterisation of the synthesised microcapsules showed two different delivery behaviours. On the one hand, MF microcapsules are more resistant so they may be incorporated into footwear materials that have to be exposed to high mechanical and thermal stresses, such as linings. On the other hand, gelatine–CMC microcapsules should be incorporated into footwear components, such as insoles, which are exposed to lower stresses because they are less resistant and might not resist the process conditions. The combination of both kinds of microcapsules could ensure a rapid as well as a long‐lasting fragrance release. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Cover Picture: Composition dependent self‐regenerative property of perovskite‐type oxides (Phys. Status Solidi RRL 5/2015)
Authors: Kuc Jagoda , Zhang Yucheng , Erni Rolf , Yoon Songhak , Karvonen Lassi , Weidenkaff Anke , Matam Santhosh Kumar
Published: May 2015

No abstract is available for this article.
The role of evaporating showers in the transfer of sting‐jet momentum to the surface
Authors: Browning K. A. , Smart D. J. , Clark M. R. , Illingworth A. J.
Published: May 2015

The most damaging winds in a severe extratropical cyclone often occur just ahead of the evaporating ends of cloud filaments emanating from the so‐called cloud head. These winds are associated with low‐level jets (LLJs), sometimes occurring just above the boundary layer. The question then arises as to how the high momentum is transferred to the surface. An opportunity to address this question arose when the severe ‘St Jude's Day’ windstorm travelled across southern England on 28 October 2013. We have carried out a mesoanalysis of a network of 1 min resolution automatic weather stations and high‐resolution Doppler radar scans from the sensitive S‐band Chilbolton Advanced Meteorological Radar (CAMRa), along with satellite and radar network imagery and numerical weather prediction products. We show that, although the damaging winds occurred in a relatively dry region of the cyclone, there was evidence within the LLJ of abundant precipitation residues from shallow convective clouds that were evaporating in a localized region of descent. We find that pockets of high momentum were transported towards the surface by the few remaining actively precipitating convective clouds within the LLJ and also by precipitation‐free convection in the boundary layer that was able to entrain evaporatively cooled air from the LLJ. The boundary‐layer convection was organized in along‐wind rolls separated by 500 to about 3000 m, the spacing varying according to the vertical extent of the convection. The spacing was greatest where the strongest winds penetrated to the surface. A run with a medium‐resolution version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model was able to reproduce the properties of the observed LLJ. It confirmed the LLJ to be a sting jet, which descended over the leading edge of a weaker cold‐conveyor‐belt jet.
The benefits of correlated observation errors for small scales
Authors: Rainwater Sabrina , Bishop Craig H. , Campbell William F.
Published: May 2015

In operational data assimilation, observation errors are generally assumed to be uncorrelated, though some observations, such as satellite data, have correlated errors. We show that, if observation‐error correlations are correctly accounted for, an observing instrument with spatially correlated errors is better able to resolve small scales than an instrument with the same error variance and uncorrelated errors. We explore the disadvantages of falsely assuming uncorrelated observation errors, investigating two methods of compensating for such mis‐specification by either observation‐error inflation or data thinning. We identify scenarios in which correctly specifying the covariance reduces small‐scale error by over 99%.
Quantifying and improving sub‐grid diffusion in the boundary‐layer grey zone
Authors: Efstathiou G. A. , Beare R. J.
Published: May 2015

Operational high‐resolution numerical weather prediction models are now able to partially resolve turbulent motions due to increased computing power. The partitioning of resolved and parametrized fluxes becomes important in the representation of turbulent transfer that determines the state of the atmospheric boundary layer. In this study, successive simulations of a convective boundary layer using the Met Office Large Eddy Model from the large‐eddy simulation to the mesoscale limit are compared with the corresponding coarse‐grained fields to examine model behaviour over the grey zone. The differences in the turbulent kinetic energy partitioning between coarse‐grained (reference) and actual fields are identified and used to quantify sub‐grid diffusion in the grey zone under different atmospheric forcings and surface heat flux. It is shown that the excessive mixing due to the large values of mixing length at coarse resolutions results in the cut‐off of resolved turbulence in the grey zone. The damping of resolved motions comes earlier for wind shear runs. In contrast, coarse‐grained fields exhibit a smooth transition of the resolved turbulent kinetic energy across the scales. Decreasing numerical dissipation through the sub‐grid scheme leads to the increase of resolved turbulence, but fails to reproduce the reference transition pattern that imposes some physical limitations to the partially resolved turbulence simulations. Pragmatic blending of mixing length values maintains a more realistic turbulent kinetic energy transition from fine to coarse resolutions and potential temperature profiles in the grey zone. Bounding vertical diffusion to its effective values, an approach based on maintaining inherent properties of the flow across the scales, is able to match the coarse‐grained fields from the highly resolved to the almost unresolved state, regardless of the forcing. Finally, the complexity of modelling in the grey zone is exhibited in the dependence of turbulence onset on time and vertical resolution.
Know what to expect when attorneys come to your campus
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2015

ORLANDO, FLA. — Whether or not you think attorneys have a place in your institution's conduct system, wouldn't you love to know what those attorneys are actually thinking so you can better prepare for the inevitable?
Comparison of Measurement Systems for Sustainable Development at the National Level
Authors: Schoenaker Niels , Hoekstra Rutger , Smits Jan Pieter
Published: May 2015

Economic indicators, such as GDP, do not measure all dimensions of society's progress. Hundreds of alternative measurement systems have been proposed to measure sustainable development. This paper argues for harmonization of these methods, and facilitates this discussion by providing a detailed comparison of country‐level measures. The analysis includes 55 systems (12 composite indicators and 43 sustainable development indicator (SDI) sets). The analysis shows that SDI sets are more common than composite indicators. This paper also shows that composite indicators generally focus on environmental themes, while SDI sets are broader in scope through inclusion of more social themes. Overall, we find a great degree of agreement on the most popular indicators and themes in SDI sets. However, we do find that certain indicators are more prevalent in higher and lower income countries. The article emphasizes the need for harmonization of measurement systems, but also shows the importance of flexibility at the country level. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Synovial Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Meniscus Regeneration Augmented by an Autologous Achilles Tendon Graft in a Rat Partial Meniscus Defect Model
Authors: Ozeki Nobutake , Muneta Takeshi , Matsuta Seiya , Koga Hideyuki , Nakagawa Yusuke , Mizuno Mitsuru , Tsuji Kunikazu , Mabuchi Yo , Akazawa Chihiro , Kobayashi Eiji , Saito Tomoyuki , Sekiya Ichiro
Published: May 2015

Although meniscus defects and degeneration are strongly correlated with the later development of osteoarthritis, the promise of regenerative medicine strategies is to prevent and/or delay the disease's progression. Meniscal reconstruction has been shown in animal models with tendon grafting and transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs); however, these procedures have not shown the same efficacy in clinical studies. Here, our aim was to investigate the ability of tendon grafts pretreated with exogenous synovial-derived MSCs to prevent cartilage degeneration in a rat partial meniscus defect model. We removed the anterior half of the medial meniscus and grafted autologous Achilles tendons with or without a 10-minute pretreatment of the tendon with synovial MSCs. The meniscus and surrounding cartilage were evaluated at 2, 4, and 8 weeks (n = 5). Tendon grafts increased meniscus size irrespective of synovial MSCs. Histological scores for regenerated menisci were better in the tendon + MSC group than in the other two groups at 4 and 8 weeks. Both macroscopic and histological scores for articular cartilage were significantly better in the tendon + MSC group at 8 weeks. Implanted synovial MSCs survived around the grafted tendon and native meniscus integration site by cell tracking assays with luciferase+, LacZ+, DiI+, and/or GFP+ synovial MSCs and/or GFP+ tendons. Flow cytometric analysis showed that transplanted synovial MSCs retained their MSC properties at 7 days and host synovial tissue also contained cells with MSC characteristics. Synovial MSCs promoted meniscus regeneration augmented by autologous Achilles tendon grafts and prevented cartilage degeneration in rats. Stem Cells  2015;33:1927–1938
Berardinelli-Seip syndrome and achalasia: a shared pathomechanism?
Authors: van der Pol Rachel J. , Benninga Marc A. , Magré Jocelyne , Van Maldergem Lionel , Rotteveel Joost , van der Knaap Marjo S. , de Meij Tim G.
Published: May 2015

Berardinelli-Seip congenital lipodystrophy (BSCL) is an uncommon autosomal recessive disorder. Patients with BSCL present with a distinct phenotype since subcutaneous fat is largely lacking and musculature has become more prominent. During childhood, diabetes and acanthosis nigricans evolve and female patients may develop hirsutism. Different genes encoding this entity have been described. Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder, characterized by its distinct motility pattern with absent or incomplete lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxations. The exact cause of achalasia is yet unknown. Here, we describe a patient with achalasia in the context of BSCL, which might be linked by a shared pathophysiologic background, as evaluated in this case report.

Conclusion: In a BSCL patient presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms, a motility disorder of the gastrointestinal tract should be considered.

What is Known:• Berardinelli-Seip congenital lipodystrophy (BSCL) and achalasia are both disorders characterized by low prevalence.

What is New:• Co-existence of both diseases is described in this report. Linkage by a potential common pathophysiologic background is discussed in this paper.
Functional role of oppA encoding an oligopeptide-binding protein from Lactobacillus salivarius Ren in bile tolerance
Authors: Wang Guohong , Li Dan , Ma Xiayin , An Haoran , Zhai Zhengyuan , Ren Fazheng , Hao Yanling
Published: May 2015

Lactobacillus salivarius is a member of the indigenous microbiota of the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and some L. salivarius strains are considered as probiotics. Bile tolerance is a crucial property for probiotic bacteria to survive the transit through the GIT and exert their beneficial effects. In this work, the functional role of oppA encoding an oligopeptide transporter substrate-binding protein from L. salivarius Ren in bile salt tolerance was investigated. In silico analysis revealed that the oppA gene encodes a 61.7-kDa cell surface-anchored hydrophilic protein with a canonical lipoprotein signal peptide. Homologous overexpression of OppA was shown to confer 20-fold higher tolerance to 0.5 % oxgall in L. salivarius Ren. Furthermore, the recombinant strain exhibited 1.8-fold and 3.6-fold higher survival when exposed to the sublethal concentration of sodium taurocholate and sodium taurodeoxycholate, respectively, while no significant change was observed when exposed to sodium glycocholate and sodium glycodeoxycholate (GDCA). Our results indicate that OppA confers specific resistance to taurine-conjugated bile salts in L. salivarius Ren. In addition, the OppA overexpression strain also showed significant increased resistance to heat and salt stresses, suggesting the protective role of OppA against multiple stresses in L. salivarius Ren.
Anticancer activity of pyrithione zinc in oral cancer cells identified in small molecule screens and xenograft model: Implications for oral cancer therapy
Authors: Srivastava Gunjan , Matta Ajay , Fu Guodong , Somasundaram Raj Thani , Datti Alessandro , Walfish Paul G. , Ralhan Ranju
Published: May 2015

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients diagnosed in late stages have limited chemotherapeutic options, underscoring the great need for development of new anticancer agents for more effective disease management. We aimed to identify novel anticancer agents for OSCC using quantitative high throughput assays for screening six chemical libraries consisting of 5170 small molecule inhibitors. In depth characterization resulted in identification of pyrithione zinc (PYZ) as the most effective cytotoxic agent inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in OSCC cells in vitro. Further, treatment with PYZ reduced colony forming, migration and invasion potential of oral cancer cells in a dose‐dependent manner. PYZ treatment also led to altered expression of several key components of the major signaling pathways including PI3K/AKT/mTOR and WNT/β‐catenin in OSCC cells. In addition, treatment with PYZ also reduced expression of 14‐3‐3ζ, 14‐3‐3σ, cyclin D1, c‐Myc and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), proteins identified in our earlier studies to be involved in development and progression of OSCCs. Importantly, PYZ treatment significantly reduced tumor xenograft volume in immunocompromised NOD/SCID/Crl mice without causing apparent toxicity to normal tissues. Taken together, we demonstrate in vitro and in vivo efficacy of PYZ in OSCC. In conclusion, we identified PYZ in HTS assays and demonstrated in vitro and in vivo pre‐clinical efficacy of PYZ as a novel anticancer therapeutic candidate in OSCC.
Labor Unions, Adjuncts, and the Mission and Identity of Catholic Universities
Authors: Beyer Gerald J.
Published: May 2015

Catholic social teaching (CST) has long endorsed the right of all workers to unionize. However, many US Catholics exhibit an antiunion bias. In addition, Catholic institutions have engaged in union busting, thereby flouting CST. Focusing on the recent efforts of adjuncts to unionize at Catholic universities, this article argues that union busting jeopardizes the faith and conscience formation of students and undermines the evangelizing mission of Catholic universities. The article debunks the appeal to religious liberty by Catholic institutions to circumvent the National Labor Relations Board's injunctions to allow adjuncts to unionize. It also refutes the argument that the National Labor Relations Act imposes a style of collective bargaining contrary to the harmonious vision of labor relations in CST. Succinctly stated, the article contends there is no legitimate reason for Catholic universities to thwart the unionization efforts of adjuncts, particularly given the systematically unjust work conditions many of them face.
Kinship Online: Engaging ‘Cultural Praxis’ in a Teaching and Learning Framework for Cultural Competence
Authors: Riley Lynette , Howard-Wagner Deirdre , Mooney Janet
Published: May 2015

The article describes the teaching and learning framework that underpins a Kinship Online Module aimed at delivering online cross-cultural training at the university level. It is based on an existing workshop designed and presented to non-Aboriginal staff and students by Lynette Riley, a Wiradjuri and Gamilaroi woman from Dubbo and Moree. In doing so, this article reflects on the pedagogical framework and adopted learning environment, and describes how the project adopts a ‘cultural praxis’ approach that combines a social constructivist, problem-based immersive learning approach with five complementary pedagogical approaches. These principles underpin the designing of a program that embeds diverse Aboriginal knowledge into this online teaching resource.
Otto Toeplitz's 1927 Paper on the Genetic Method in the Teaching of Mathematics
Authors: Fried Michael N. , Jahnke Hans Niels
Published: May 2015

Argument

“The problem of university courses on infinitesimal calculus and their demarcation from infinitesimal calculus in high schools” (1927) is the published version of an address Otto Toeplitz delivered at a meeting of the German Mathematical Society held in Düsseldorf in 1926. It contains the most detailed exposition of Toeplitz's ideas about mathematics education, particularly his thinking about the role of the history of mathematics in mathematics education, which he called the “genetic method” to teaching mathematics. The tensions and assumptions about mathematics, history of mathematics, and historiography revealed in this piece dedicated to educational ideas are what make Toeplitz's text interesting in the study of historiography of mathematics. In general, the ways historiography of mathematics and teaching of mathematics, even without an immediate concern for history, are deeply entangled and, in our view, worth attention both in historical and educational research.
Disciplined by the Discipline: A Social-Epistemic Fingerprint of the History of Science
Authors: Vanderstraeten Raf , Vandermoere Frederic
Published: May 2015

Argument

The scientific system is primarily differentiated into disciplines. While disciplines may be wide in scope and diverse in their research practices, they serve scientific communities that evaluate research and also grant recognition to what is published. The analysis of communication and publication practices within such a community hence allows us to shed light on the dynamics of this discipline. On the basis of an empirical analysis ofIsis, we show how the process of discipline-building in history of science has led its practitioners to be socialized and sensitized in relatively strong intra-disciplinary terms – with minimal interdisciplinary openness.