bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron Confinement at the Si/MoS2 Heterosheet Interface
Authors: Molle Alessandro , Lamperti Alessio , Rotta Davide , Fanciulli Marco , Cinquanta Eugenio , Grazianetti Carlo
Published: February 2016

The electronic band line‐up between a uniform 2D silicon layer and a MoS2 substrate is shown to result in a distortion of the MoS2 bands. This effect is reflected in the admittance and electrical transport responses measured from the field‐effect transistor incorporating the Si/MoS2 heterosheet interface and fabricated from MoS2 multilayer flakes on SiO2/Si++ substrates. In particular, the gate modulation of the capacitance curve and the observation of a double‐peak feature in the transconductance profile make evidence of the built‐in of two active channels in the transistor: one at the MoS2/SiO2 interface and the other at the Si/MoS2 heterosheet interface. The emergence of a gate modulated conductive channel at the Si/MoS2 heterosheet interface is rationalized in terms of an effective electron accumulation at the Si/MoS2 interface that is consistent with the electronic band bending deduced from high‐resolution synchrotron radiation photoemission spectroscopy.
Influence of Gas Mixture and Temperature on AP‐CVD Synthesis of Graphene on Copper Foil
Authors: Kostogrud Ilya A. , Trusov Konstantin V. , Smovzh Dmitry V.
Published: February 2016

The influence of methane and hydrogen concentration as well as temperature of synthesis on the number of layers, area of coverage, and quality of graphene formed by chemical vapor deposition on copper is studied in this paper. It is shown that methane concentration primarily affects the sample coverage area. The temperature determines the number of graphene layers and the defect rate of graphene planes. The influence of hydrogen concentration is complex: low hydrogen concentrations are insufficient to induce efficient decomposition of methane on the copper surface; high concentrations of hydrogen limit nucleation of graphene layers and the formed graphene structures are subject to etching.
Green Catalytic Process for Click Synthesis Promoted by Copper Oxide Nanocomposite Supported on Graphene Oxide
Authors: Reddy V. Hanuman , Reddy Y. V. Rami , Sridhar B. , Reddy B. V. Subba
Published: February 2016

The catalytic activity of graphene oxide supported copper oxide (CuO–GO) has been investigated in Click synthesis of 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives under green reaction conditions. In the context of green approach, water is used as solvent under ligand free and aerobic conditions at room temperature, with low catalyst loading (0.2 mol %) while ensuring the recovery and reusability of the catalyst. The catalyst affords excellent selectivity in formation of the desired products in good to excellent yields. Further, the work‐up procedure adopted here is clean and simple, while recycling the organic solvents that one used for work‐up procedure. It is proposed that the functional groups present on the GO surface are effective for preventing the aggregation of the catalytically active copper oxide species during the reaction. Moreover, the excellent performance of CuO–GO nanocomposite is ascribed to the excellent dispersity of the catalyst in water, hydrophilic nature of the GO for the accumulation of organic substrates in water and the “Breslow effect.”

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Three‐Component Synthesis of Pyrrole‐Related Nitrogen Heterocycles by a Hantzsch‐Type Process: Comparison between Conventional and High‐Speed Vibration Milling Conditions
Authors: Estévez Verónica , Sridharan Vellaisamy , Sabaté Sònia , Villacampa Mercedes , Menéndez J. Carlos
Published: February 2016

The use of solvent‐free, high‐speed vibration milling conditions has allowed the development of a one‐pot telescoped process for the synthesis of pyrroles starting from ketones, primary amines, and β‐dicarbonyl compounds and comprising an initial α‐iodination followed by an in situ three‐component Hantzsch‐type reaction. This method was compared with a solution‐based protocol from α‐iodoketones, primary amines, and β‐dicarbonyl compounds. Although both protocols were far more general than previous Hantzsch‐type pyrrole syntheses, the mechanochemical method was superior in that it afforded considerably higher yields in spite of comprising an additional step. The stereochemical integrity of the pyrroles obtained from chiral α‐aminoesters was maintained. This solvent‐free method was also used for the efficient preparation of ter‐ and quater‐aryl/heteroaryl frameworks containing two pyrrole units and a variety of fused pyrrole systems, including benzo[g]indoles, indeno[1,2‐b]pyrroles, indoles, and homoindoles.
Comparative analysis of dentognathic pathologies in the Dmanisi mandibles
Authors: Margvelashvili Ann , Zollikofer Christoph P.E. , Lordkipanidze David , Tafforeau Paul , Ponce de León Marcia S.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Due to the scarcity of the fossil record, in vivo changes in the dentognathic system of early Homo are typically documented at the level of individual fossil specimens, and it remains difficult to draw population‐level inferences about dietary habits, diet‐related activities and lifestyle from individual patterns of dentognathic alterations. The Plio‐Pleistocene hominin sample from Dmanisi (Georgia), dated to 1.77 million years ago, offers a unique opportunity to study in vivo changes in the dentognathic system of individuals belonging to a single paleodeme of early Homo.

Materials and Methods

We analyze dentognathic pathologies in the Dmanisi sample, and in comparative samples of modern Australian and Greenlander hunter‐gatherer populations, applying clinical protocols of dentognathic diagnostics.

Results

The Dmanisi hominins exhibit a similarly wide diversity and similar incidence of dentognathic pathologies as the modern human hunter‐gatherer population samples investigated here. Dmanisi differs from the modern population samples in several respects: At young age tooth wear is already advanced, and pathologies are more prevalent. At old age, hypercementosis is substantial.

Conclusions

Results indicate that dentognathic pathologies and disease trajectories are largely similar in early Homo and modern humans, but that the disease load was higher in early Homo, probably as an effect of higher overall stress on the dentognathic system. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:229–253, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanical and metabolic interactions in cortical bone development
Authors: Eleazer Courtney D. , Jankauskas Rimantas
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Anthropological studies of cortical bone often aim to reconstruct either habitual activities or health of past populations. During development, mechanical loading and metabolism simultaneously shape cortical bone structure; yet, few studies have investigated how these factors interact. Understanding their relative morphological effects is essential for assessing human behavior from skeletal samples, as previous studies have suggested that interaction effects may influence the interpretation from cortical structure of physical activity or metabolic status.

Material and Methods

This study assesses cross‐sectional geometric and histomorphometric features in bones under different loading regimes (femur, humerus, rib) and compares these properties among individuals under different degrees of metabolic stress. The study sample consists of immature humans from a late medieval Lithuanian cemetery (Alytus, 14th–18th centuries AD). Analyses are based on the hypothesis that metabolic bone loss is distributed within the skeleton in a way that optimizes mechanical competency.

Results

Results suggest mechanical compensation for metabolic bone loss in the cross‐sectional properties of all three bones (especially ribs), suggesting a mechanism for conserving adequate bone strength for different loads across the skeleton. Microscopic bone loss is restricted to stronger bones under high loads, which may mitigate fracture risk in areas of the skeleton that are more resistive to loading, although alternative explanations are examined.

Discussion

Distributions of metabolic bone loss and subsequent structural adjustments appear to preserve strength. Nevertheless, both mechanics and metabolism have a detectable influence on morphology, and potential implications for behavioral interpretations in bioculturally stressed samples due to this interaction are explored. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:317–333, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Connexin gap junction channels and chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Kim Raymond , Chang George , Hu Rebecca , Phillips Anthony , Douglas Richard
Published: February 2016

Background

Gap junction channels are formed by connexin (Cx) proteins. These channels facilitate communication between adjacent cells, and some have been implicated in acute and chronic inflammation. We investigated whether altered connexin expression could be associated with the inflammatory changes of the sinonasal mucosa that characterize chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Our aims were first to screen normal sinus mucosa to determine the expression profile of the connexin family of genes, and second to compare the level of expression of 3 key connexins (Cx26, Cx30, and Cx43) in CRS and normal sinus mucosa. These 3 connexins have been implicated in lower airway epithelial cell repair, as well as chronic and acute cutaneous wounds.

Methods

Sinus mucosa biopsies were taken from 11 patients with CRS undergoing sinus surgery and from 7 controls with normal sinuses undergoing transnasal pituitary surgery. Gene expression study of the connexin family was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Subsequent targeted quantitative analyses were done using quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) and fluorescent immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

A total of 16 different connexin genes were expressed in the normal mucosa including Cx26, Cx30, and Cx43. The qPCR demonstrated increased abundance of Cx26 (p = 0.005), Cx30 (p = 0.07), and Cx43 (p = 0.04) in CRS compared to control mucosa. IHC confirmed significantly higher levels of Cx43 in CRS (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The majority of the connexin family is expressed in normal sinus mucosa. Expression of 3 selected connexins was found elevated in CRS mucosa. Connexin gap junction modulation may offer a novel therapeutic target for CRS.
Mind “De GaPP”: in vitro efficacy of deferiprone and gallium‐protoporphyrin against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms
Authors: Richter Katharina , Ramezanpour Mahnaz , Thomas Nicky , Prestidge Clive A. , Wormald Peter‐John , Vreugde Sarah
Published: February 2016

Background

Biofilms are clusters of bacteria embedded in a protective matrix that frequently cause failure of medical treatments and increase the risk of recurrent infections. In particular, Staphylococcus aureus biofilms are associated with a series of chronic and nosocomial infections that are increasingly resistant to antibiotics. This study proposes a novel intervention strategy targeting the essential iron metabolism for bacterial growth, survival and pathogenesis using the compounds deferiprone (Def) and gallium‐protoporphyrin (GaPP).

Methods

S. aureus biofilms were challenged with Def/GaPP as single and dual treatments. In vitro anti‐biofilm efficacy was assessed by the AlamarBlue viability assay and confocal microscopy. In vitro cytotoxicity of the treatments was examined by the lactate dehydrogenase assay on mouse fibroblast (L929) and human bronchial epithelial cells (Nuli‐1).

Results

Def (20 mM) and GaPP (200 μg/mL) monotherapy for 2 hours showed 35% and 74% biofilm removal, respectively, whereas simultaneous Def/GaPP administration showed 55% biofilm removal. In contrast, the consecutive treatment (2 hours Def followed by 2 hours GaPP) achieved 95% biofilm removal. Cytotoxicity studies indicated no cell hazard in all treatments.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the in vitro efficacy of a novel treatment combination against S. aureus biofilms targeting the bacterial iron metabolism. The consecutive Def/GaPP treatment showed significantly enhanced biofilm efficacy than the individual compounds, while being not toxic to 2 cell lines. This novel treatment combination is a promising approach to combat S. aureus–associated biofilm infections having high potential for future clinical application.
Bifunktionale Sauerstoffelektroden durch Einbettung von Co@Co3O4‐Nanopartikeln in CNT‐gekoppelte Stickstoff‐dotierte Kohlenstoffpolyeder
Authors: Aijaz Arshad , Masa Justus , Rösler Christoph , Xia Wei , Weide Philipp , Botz Alexander J. R. , Fischer Roland A. , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Muhler Martin
Published: February 2016

Effiziente und reversible Sauerstoffelektroden für die Sauerstoffreduktion (oxygen reduction reaction, ORR) sowie die Sauerstoffentwicklung (oxygen evolution reaction, OER) sind entscheidend für die Energieumwandlung beispielsweise in regenerativen Brennstoffzellen und Metall‐Luft‐Batterien. Die Realisierung solcher Elektroden wird im Wesentlichen durch unzureichende Aktivität und Stabilität der Elektrokatalysatoren sowohl bei der Wasserspaltung als auch bei der Sauerstoffreduktion erschwert. Wir berichten über hochaktive bifunktionale Elektrokatalysatoren für Sauerstoffelektroden. Die Katalysatoren bestehen aus Co@Co3O4‐Kern‐Schale‐Nanopartikeln, die durch Pyrolyse einer Cobalt‐haltigen Metall‐organischen Gerüstverbindung (MOF; ZIF‐67) in einer reduktiven H2‐Atmosphäre mit anschließender kontrollierter oxidativer Kalzinierung in CNT‐gekoppelte N‐dotierte Kohlenstoffpolyeder eingebettet wurden. Die Katalysatoren liefern eine reversible Gesamtüberspannung von 0.85 V in 0.1 m KOH‐Lösung und übertreffen damit Pt/C, IrO2 und RuO2, sodass sie zu den bislang besten nicht auf Edelmetallen basierenden Elektrokatalysatoren für reversible Sauerstoffelektroden zählen.
Diastereoselective [3+2] Annulation of Aromatic/Vinylic Amides with Bicyclic Alkenes through Cobalt‐Catalyzed C−H Activation and Intramolecular Nucleophilic Addition
Authors: Gandeepan Parthasarathy , Rajamalli Pachaiyappan , Cheng Chien‐Hong
Published: February 2016

A highly diastereoselective method for the synthesis of dihydroepoxybenzofluorenone derivatives from aromatic/vinylic amides and bicyclic alkenes is described. This new transformation proceeds through cobalt‐catalyzed C−H activation and intramolecular nucleophilic addition to the amide functional group. Transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H activation reactions of secondary amides with alkenes usually lead to [4+2] or [4+1] annulation; to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a [3+2] cycloaddition is described in this context. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions and tolerates a wide range of functional groups. Mechanistic studies imply that the C−H bond cleavage may be the rate‐limiting step.
Catalytic Enantioselective Assembly of Homoallylic Alcohols from Dienes, Aryldiazonium Salts, and Aldehydes
Authors: Tao Zhong‐Lin , Adili Alafate , Shen Hong‐Cheng , Han Zhi‐Yong , Gong Liu‐Zhu
Published: February 2016

A highly selective multicomponent carbonyl allylation reaction of 1,3‐butadienes, aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates, and aldehydes has been established under the combined catalysis of palladium acetate and chiral anion phase transfer to render the favorable assembly of chiral Z‐configured homoallylic alcohols in high yields and with excellent levels of enantioselectivity.
Dual Genetic Encoding of Acetyl‐lysine and Non‐deacetylatable Thioacetyl‐lysine Mediated by Flexizyme
Authors: Xiong Hai , Reynolds Noah M. , Fan Chenguang , Englert Markus , Hoyer Denton , Miller Scott J. , Söll Dieter
Published: February 2016

Acetylation of lysine residues is an important post‐translational protein modification. Lysine acetylation in histones and its crosstalk with other post‐translational modifications in histone and non‐histone proteins are crucial to DNA replication, DNA repair, and transcriptional regulation. We incorporated acetyl‐lysine (AcK) and the non‐hydrolyzable thioacetyl‐lysine (ThioAcK) into full‐length proteins in vitro, mediated by flexizyme. ThioAcK and AcK were site‐specifically incorporated at different lysine positions into human histone H3, either individually or in pairs. We demonstrate that the thioacetyl group in histone H3 could not be removed by the histone deacetylase sirtuin type 1. This method provides a powerful tool to study protein acetylation and its role in crosstalk between post‐translational modifications.
Crystallographic Evidence for Direct Metal–Metal Bonding in a Stable Open‐Shell La2@Ih‐C80 Derivative
Authors: Bao Lipiao , Chen Muqing , Pan Changwang , Yamaguchi Takahisa , Kato Tatsuhisa , Olmstead Marilyn M. , Balch Alan L. , Akasaka Takeshi , Lu Xing
Published: February 2016

Endohedral metallofullerenes (EMFs) have novel structures and properties that are closely associated with the internal metallic species. Benzyl radical additions have been previously shown to form closed‐shell adducts by attaching an odd number of addends to open‐shell EMFs (such as Sc3C2@Ih‐C80) whereas an even number of groups are added to closed‐shell EMFs (for example Sc3N@Ih‐C80). Herein we report that benzyl radical addition to the closed‐shell La2@Ih‐C80 forms a stable, open‐shell monoadduct instead of the anticipated closed‐shell bisadduct. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction results show the formation of a stable radical species. In this species, the La−La distance is comparable to the theoretical value of a La−La covalent bond and is shorter than reported values for other La2@Ih‐C80 derivatives, providing unambiguous evidence for the formation of direct La−La bond.
High‐Throughput Measurement of Binding Kinetics by mRNA Display and Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Jalali‐Yazdi Farzad , Huong Lai Lan , Takahashi Terry T. , Roberts Richard W.
Published: February 2016

There is great demand for high‐throughput methods to characterize ligand affinity. By combining mRNA display with next‐generation sequencing, we determined the kinetic on‐ and off‐rates for over twenty thousand ligands without the need for synthesis or purification of individual members. Our results are reproducible and as accurate as those obtained with other methods of affinity measurement.
Experimental investigation of the rheological behaviors of polypropylene in a capillary flow
Authors: Meng Limin , Wu Daming , Kelly Adrian , Woodhead Mike , Liu Ying
Published: February 2016

The rheological characterization of polymer melts is strongly related to their material properties. In this study, we focused on the rheological behaviors of a polypropylene (PP) melt through a capillary die. With an advanced twin‐bore capillary rheometer with dies measuring 1.0, 0.5, and 0.25 mm in diameter, experiments were performed over a shear‐rate range of 3 × 102 to 5 × 103 s−1 at three temperatures, 210, 220, and 230 °C. The results demonstrate that the geometry dependence of the PP viscosity relied on the die diameter and the temperature of the PP melt. The viscosity values of the PP melt in the 0.25‐mm diameter die were higher than were those in the 0.5‐ and 1.0‐mm dies at 220 and 230 °C. However, the viscosity values in all of the tested dies were similar at 210 °C. The tendency for the viscosity to decrease as the temperature of the polymer melt increased weakened in the 0.25‐mm diameter die. As a result, the pressure applied to the PP melt in the 0.25‐mm diameter die increased; this caused a decrease in the free volume between molecules. On the basis of the Barus equation, the contribution of pressure to the changed viscosity in each die at each of the tested temperatures was calculated and was found to be as high as 32.86% in the 0.25‐mm die at 230 °C. Additionally, the effect of the wall slip on the geometry dependence of the PP viscosity in the tested dies was investigated with a modified Mooney method. The values of the slip velocity revealed that wall slip occurred only in the 0.25‐mm die at 210 °C. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43459.
Polythiophene nanoparticles in aqueous media
Authors: Kadac Kornelia , Nowaczyk Jacek
Published: February 2016

The article presents the data concerning the synthesis of polythiophene (PTh) nanoparticles in aqueous medium applying emulsion polymerization. The synthetic method was studied in variety of combinations of initiator and surfactant. It was found that application of potassium peroxydisulfate (KPS) as initiator and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as the surfactant gives the best product yields. The structure, morphology, and physicochemical properties have been analyzed showing that the resulting latex have conducting film forming properties. Resulting polymers were characterized via fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetry‐differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and electrochemical methods [e.g. current–voltage characteristics (I–V), activation energy of electric conductivity, and doping processes]. A mechanism of the polymerization reaction is also discussed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2016,133, 43495.
Electron beam sterilization of cyclo olefin polymer leads to polymer degradation and production of alkyl radicals
Authors: Kiminami Hideaki , Imae Yasufumi , Takahashi Eiji , Wei Hong , Oomura Satoshi , Abe Yoshihiko
Published: February 2016

We investigated the effects of electron‐beam (EB) sterilization on syringe barrels manufactured from cyclo olefin polymer (COP). The chemical structure of the polymer was determined by interpreting the 13C NMR and DEPT‐135 spectra of the COP resin. The antioxidants in the resin were identified by analyzing the liquid chromatography‐photo diode array‐mass spectrometry (LC‐PDA‐MS) data for the methanol extract of the resin and the gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) data for the supercritical methanol degradation products of the extract. NMR and LC‐PDA‐MS analyses revealed that EB sterilization produces degradation products in the COP main chain and reduces the quantity of the antioxidants in the COP resin. ESR spectra of the EB‐sterilized syringe barrels indicated the presence and location of alkyl radicals, which were generated in the COP main chain by EB sterilization. ESR analyses also indicated that the quantity of alkyl radicals decreased over time. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43498.
Stable isotope analyses reveal predation on amphibians by a globally invasive fish (Gambusia holbrooki)
Authors: Remon Jonathan , Bower Deborah S. , Gaston Troy F. , Clulow John , Mahony Michael J.
Published: February 2016

Biodiversity loss caused by invasive species is particularly problematic in freshwater ecosystems, which are among the world's most threatened habitats. Invasive fish such as the eastern mosquitofish, Gambusia holbrooki, have been implicated in the decline of amphibians, which suffer high extinction rates globally. Although G. holbrooki is one of the most studied freshwater fish, its diet shows wide geographic variation and its impact on amphibian populations remains unclear.

Stable isotopes 13C and 15N were used in 10 urban ponds in Sydney, Australia to compare the diet of G. holbrooki in January, April and May 2013 using a stable isotope mixing model.

Gambusia holbrooki was carnivorous and fed on invertebrates (24–39%), tadpoles (25–32%) and conspecifics (20–45%). In contrast to previous studies, primary producers were a negligible part of Gambusia holbrooki diet (<10%). Its diet in late autumn comprised a high proportion of conspecifics (up to 45%) owing to the depletion of other food sources before winter (metamorphosis of larvae).

This study provides evidence of high rates of predation on native tadpoles and invertebrates by a highly invasive fish. This knowledge should be incorporated into amphibian releases through head‐starting tadpoles or using soft releases where tadpoles are placed in predator‐free enclosures until larvae are large enough to avoid predation. Considering the dire conservation status of amphibians globally and the growing interest for invertebrates, it is suggested that stable isotopes are valuable to identify threats from predation in order to target conservation practice toward suitable priorities.

Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐Gallate Inhibits Ethanol‐Induced Apoptosis Through Neurod1 Regulating CHOP Expression in Pancreatic β‐Cells
Authors: Wu Tijun , Xiang Jie , Shan Wei , Li Mengxiao , Zhou Wenbo , Han Xiao , Chen Fang
Published: February 2016

Epiga‐llocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is one kind of polyphenol abundant extracted from green tea which has a potent antidiabetic activity. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating the protection procession of EGCG are still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of EGCG on pancreatic β‐cells exposed to ethanol and the possible underlying mechanisms. To observe the effect of EGCG, we assessed apoptosis in βTC‐6 and INS‐1 cells, which were in complete medium containing 60 mM ethanol, or coincubation with different concentration of EGCG. We also evaluated the roles of Neurod1 in CHOP expression and ethanol‐mediated damage through plasmid overexpression. Treatment with EGCG decreased CHOP expression and apoptosis, whereas its treatment increased Neurod1 expression in ethanol‐treated βTC‐6 and INS‐1 cells. Overexpression of Neurod1 caused the decrease of CHOP expression and apoptosis in ethanol‐treated cells. Furthermore, Neurod1 inhibited CHOP expression by deacetylation of Histone H4 at the CHOP gene promoter. In addition, EGCG partially restores the activity of Neurod1 binding to CHOP promoter in ethanol‐treated cells. In conclusion, EGCG protected β‐cell against ethanol‐induced β‐cell apoptosis by Neurod1 regulating CHOP expression. Anat Rec, 299:573–582, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bilateral Common Carotid Artery Occlusion in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: A Feasible Animal Model for Ocular Ischemic Syndrome
Authors: Wang Yacong , Fan Yuhua , Zhang Lihong , Wang Yi‐Xiang J. , Qi Wei , Liang Willmann , Wang Chunmei , T.W. Yew David , Ye Cunxi , Sha Ou
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of inducing ocular ischemic syndrome in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Hypertensive and normotensive Wistar–Kyoto rats had bilateral occlusion or sham surgery. They were divided into 4 groups: (1) hypertensive‐ischemia, (2) hypertensive‐sham, (3) normotensive‐ischemia, and (4) normotensive‐sham. Four months after the operation, the global changes of the eye and pupillary light reflex were assessed. Then each rat was perfused, and randomly one of the bulbuses oculi was prepared as retinal flat mounts for investigation of vascular changes. The opposite eyeball was prepared as a paraffin section for observation of the linear density of retinal ganglion cells and for thickness measurement. One hypertensive‐ischemia rat had a cataract in one eye and another rat in the same group had bulbus oculi collapse in one eye. The light reflex disappeared in 13.33% of hypertensive‐ischemia rats, and the rest of the hypertensive‐ischemia rats and normotensive‐ischemia rats had slow reflex. Compared with the respective controls, the peripheral retinal vascular network in hypertensive‐ischemia and normotensive‐ischemia rats was sparse; linear density of the retinal ganglion cells was significantly reduced; and the retinal thickness was reduced. Compared with normotensive‐ischemia rats, the hypertensive‐ischemia rats demonstrated more severe changes. After bilateral common carotic artery occlusion, the eyes of hypertensive rats developed various pathological changes similar to those of ocular ischemic syndrome. In conclusion, an animal model for ocular ischemic syndrome can be created by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Anat Rec, 299:806–814, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphometric Correlates of the Ovary and Ovulatory Corpora in the Bowhead Whale, Balaena mysticetus
Authors: Tarpley Raymond J. , Hillmann Daniel J. , George John C. , Zeh Judith E. , Suydam Robert S.
Published: February 2016

Gross morphology and morphometry of the bowhead whale ovary, including ovulatory corpora, were investigated in 50 whales from the Chukchi and Beaufort seas off the coast of Alaska. Using the presence of ovarian corpora to define sexual maturity, 23 sexually immature whales (7.6–14.2 m total body length) and 27 sexually mature whales (14.2–17.7 m total body length) were identified. Ovary pair weights ranged from 0.38 to 2.45 kg and 2.92 to 12.02 kg for sexually immature and sexually mature whales, respectively. In sexually mature whales, corpora lutea (CLs) and/or large corpora albicantia (CAs) projected beyond ovary surfaces. CAs became increasingly less interruptive of the surface contour as they regressed, while remaining identifiable within transverse sections of the ovarian cortex. CLs formed large globular bodies, often with a central lumen, featuring golden parenchymas enfolded within radiating fibrous cords. CAs, sometimes vesicular, featured a dense fibrous core with outward fibrous projections through the former luteal tissue. CLs (never more than one per ovary pair) ranged from 6.7 to 15.0 cm in diameter in 13 whales. Fetuses were confirmed in nine of the 13 whales, with the associated CLs ranging from 8.3 to 15.0 cm in diameter. CLs from four whales where a fetus was not detected ranged from 6.7 to 10.6 cm in diameter. CA totals ranged from 0 to 22 for any single ovary, and from 1 to 41 for an ovary pair. CAs measured from 0.3 to 6.3 cm in diameter, and smaller corpora were more numerous, suggesting an accumulating record of ovulation. Neither the left nor the right ovary dominated in the production of corpora. Anat Rec, 299:769–797, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ECDYSTEROID AND CHITINASE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE WESTERN TARNISHED PLANT BUG (Lygus hesperus) PRIOR TO MOLT INDICATE ROLES IN DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Brent Colin S. , Wang Meixian , Miao Yun‐Gen , Hull J. Joe
Published: February 2016

Vital physiological processes that drive the insect molt represent areas of interest for the development of alternative control strategies. The western tarnished plant bug (Lygus hesperus Knight) is a pest of numerous agronomic and horticultural crops but the development of novel control approaches is impeded by limited knowledge of the mechanisms regulating its molt. To address this deficiency, we examined the fundamental relationship underlying the hormonal and molecular components of ecdysis. At 27°C L. hesperus exhibits a temporally controlled nymph–adult molt that occurs about 4 days after the final nymph–nymph molt with ecdysteroid levels peaking 2 days prior to the final molt. Application of exogenous ecdysteroids when endogenous levels had decreased disrupted the nymphal–adult molt, with treated animals exhibiting an inability to escape the old exoskeleton and resulting in mortality compared to controls. Using accessible transcriptomic data, we identified 10 chitinase‐like sequences (LhCht), eight of which had protein motifs consistent with chitinases. Phylogenetic analyses revealed orthologous relationships to chitinases critical to molting in other insects. RT‐PCR based transcript profiling revealed that expression changes to four of the LhChts was coordinated with the molt period and ecdysteroid levels. Collectively, our results support a role for ecdysteroid regulation of the L. hesperus molt and suggest that cuticle clearance is mediated by LhCht orthologs of chitinases that are essential to the molt process. These results provide the initial hormonal and molecular basis for future studies to investigate the specific roles of these components in molting.
Micro‐photoluminescence of single living diatom cells
Authors: LeDuff Paul , Roesijadi Guritno , Rorrer Gregory L.
Published: February 2016

Diatoms are single‐celled microalgae that possess a nanostructured, porous biosilica shell called a frustule. This study characterized the micro‐photoluminescence (μ‐PL) emission of single living cells of the photosynthetic marine diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana in response to UV laser irradiation at 325 nm using a confocal Raman microscope. The photoluminescence (PL) spectrum had two primary peaks, one centered at 500–510 nm, which was attributed to the frustule biosilica, and a second peak at 680 nm, which was attributed to auto‐fluorescence of photosynthetic pigments. The portion of the μ‐PL emission spectrum associated with biosilica frustule in the single living diatom cell was similar to that from single biosilica frustules isolated from these diatom cells. The PL emission by the biosilica frustule in the living cell emerged only after cells were cultivated to silicon depletion. The discovery of the discovery of PL emission by the frustule biosilica within a single living diatom itself, not just its isolated frustule, opens up future possibilities for living biosensor applications, where the interaction of diatom cells with other molecules can be probed by μ‐PL spectroscopy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Possibility of using salivary ultra‐weak chemiluminescence as a biomarker for feelings of anxiety in hospital settings
Authors: Hiramatsu Mitsuo , Chida Kingo , Hashimoto Dai , Takamoto Hisayoshi , Honzawa Katsu , Okada Hiroyuki , Nakamura Kimitsugu , Takagi Kuniaki
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to assess whether a particular value of noninvasive salivary ultra‐weak chemiluminescence (UCL) could be used as a biomarker of psychological stress. Our study covered two groups. Group 1 comprised six healthy volunteers who stayed in a hospital for one night and group 2 comprised 15 patients with lung cancer and 24 patients with respiratory diseases other than lung cancer who were in hospital for an extended stay. First, we evaluated the UCL of saliva from six healthy volunteers before and after one night in hospital. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentrations were also measured. The integrated intensity value of UCL was correlated with the IgA concentration (correlation coefficient 0.90). Second, in the case of a long hospital stay, we found that the maximum salivary UCL intensities were higher in patients with lung cancer than in those with respiratory diseases other than lung cancer or in 28 healthy controls. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Review: The lord of the rings: Structure and mechanism of the sliding clamp loader
Authors: Kelch Brian A.
Published: February 2016

Sliding clamps are ring‐shaped polymerase processivity factors that act as master regulators of cellular replication by coordinating multiple functions on DNA to ensure faithful transmission of genetic and epigenetic information. Dedicated AAA+ ATPase machines called clamp loaders actively place clamps on DNA, thereby governing clamp function by controlling when and where clamps are used. Clamp loaders are also important model systems for understanding the basic principles of AAA+ mechanism and function. After nearly 30 years of study, the ATP‐dependent mechanism of opening and loading of clamps is now becoming clear. Here I review the structural and mechanistic aspects of the clamp loading process, as well as comment on questions that will be addressed by future studies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 532–546, 2016.
Genome‐scale metabolic modeling and in silico analysis of lipid accumulating yeast Candida tropicalis for dicarboxylic acid production
Authors: Mishra Pranjul , Park Gyu‐Yeon , Lakshmanan Meiyappan , Lee Hee‐Seok , Lee Hongweon , Chang Matthew Wook , Ching Chi Bun , Ahn Jungoh , Lee Dong‐Yup
Published: February 2016

Recently, the bio‐production of α,ω‐dicarboxylic acids (DCAs) has gained significant attention, which potentially leads to the replacement of the conventional petroleum‐based products. In this regard, the lipid accumulating yeast Candida tropicalis, has been recognized as a promising microbial host for DCA biosynthesis: it possess the unique ω‐oxidation pathway where the terminal carbon of α‐fatty acids is oxidized to form DCAs with varying chain lengths. However, despite such industrial importance, its cellular physiology and lipid accumulation capability remain largely uncharacterized. Thus, it is imperative to better understand the metabolic behavior of this lipogenic yeast, which could be achieved by a systems biological approach. To this end, herein, we reconstructed the genome‐scale metabolic model of C. tropicalis, iCT646, accounting for 646 unique genes, 945 metabolic reactions, and 712 metabolites. Initially, the comparative network analysis of iCT646 with other yeasts revealed several distinctive metabolic reactions, mainly within the amino acid and lipid metabolism including the ω‐oxidation pathway. Constraints‐based flux analysis was, then, employed to predict the in silico growth rates of C. tropicalis which are highly consistent with the cellular phenotype observed in glucose and xylose minimal media chemostat cultures. Subsequently, the lipid accumulation capability of C. tropicalis was explored in comparison with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, indicating that the formation of “citrate pyruvate cycle” is essential to the lipid accumulation in oleaginous yeasts. The in silico flux analysis also highlighted the enhanced ability of pentose phosphate pathway as NADPH source rather than malic enzyme during lipogenesis. Finally, iCT646 was successfully utilized to highlight the key directions of C. tropicalis strain design for the whole cell biotransformation application to produce long‐chain DCAs from alkanes. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 1993–2004. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrafiltration of highly concentrated antibody solutions: Experiments and modeling for the effects of module and buffer conditions
Authors: Binabaji Elaheh , Ma Junfen , Rao Suma , Zydney Andrew L
Published: February 2016

Although ultrafiltration is currently used for the concentration and formulation of nearly all biotherapeutics, obtaining the very high target concentrations for monoclonal antibody products is challenging. The objective of this work was to examine the effects of the membrane module design and buffer conditions on both the filtrate flux and maximum achievable protein concentration during the ultrafiltration of highly concentrated monoclonal antibody solutions. Experimental data were obtained using both hollow fiber and screened cassettes and in the presence of specific excipients that are known to alter the solution viscosity. Data were compared with predictions of a recently developed model that accounts for the complex thermodynamic and hydrodynamic behavior in these systems, including the effects of back‐filtration arising from the large pressure drop through the module due to the high viscosity of the concentrated antibody solutions. Model calculations were in good agreement with experimental data in hollow fiber modules with very different fiber length and in screened cassettes having different screen geometries. These results provide important insights into the key factors controlling the filtrate flux and maximum achievable protein concentration during ultrafiltration of highly concentrated antibody solutions as well as a framework for the development of enhanced ultrafiltration processes for this application. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:692–701, 2016
Activation Methods of Carbonaceous Materials Obtained from Agricultural Waste
Authors: Canales‐Flores Roberto A. , Prieto‐García Francisco
Published: February 2016

Activated carbons belong to the most widely used adsorbent materials. The utility of these materials mainly depends on their chemical surface and porous structure. The method of activation and the nature of the used precursor greatly influence the pore structure and surface functional groups of the activated carbon. Therefore, the main objective of current investigations is to develop or modify the activation method in an optimal manner using appropriate precursors. This review compiles the results of various studies on the synthesis of activated carbons from agricultural waste. Various activation methods, such as physical, chemical, physicochemical, and microwave activation, are discussed. The effects of carbonization and activation parameters, such as temperature, activating agent, and residence time, toward the properties of the activated carbon are reviewed.
Composition and Chemical Variability of Ivoirian Polyalthia oliveri Leaf Oil
Authors: Ouattara Zana A. , Boti Jean Brice , Ahibo Coffy Antoine , Bekro Yves‐Alain , Casanova Joseph , Tomi Félix , Bighelli Ange
Published: February 2016

The chemical composition of 45 essential oil samples isolated from the leaves of Polyalthia oliveri harvested in three Ivoirian forests was investigated by GC‐FID (retention indices measured on two columns of different polarities), and by 13C‐NMR, following a method developed in our laboratory. In total, 41 components were identified. The content of the main components varied drastically from sample to sample: (E)‐β‐caryophyllene (1.2 – 50.8%), α‐humulene (0.6 – 47.7%), isoguaiene (0 – 27.9%), alloaromadendrene (0 – 24.7%), germacrene B (0 – 18.3%), δ‐cadinene (0.4 – 19.3%), and β‐selinene (0.2 – 18.5%). The analysis of six oil samples selected in function of their chromatographic profiles is reported in detail. The 45 oil compositions were submitted to hierarchical cluster and principal components analysis, which allowed the distinction of three groups within the oil samples. The compositions of the oils from group I (15 samples) and II (12 samples) were dominated by (E)‐β‐caryophyllene and α‐humulene, respectively. Oil samples of group III (18 samples) needed to be partitioned into four subgroups III.1–III.4 whose compositions were dominated by alloaromadenrene, isoguaiene, germacrene B, and δ‐cadinene, respectively.
Composition and Chemical Variability of the Needle Oil from Pinus halepensis growing in Corsica
Authors: Nam Anne‐Marie , Tomi Félix , Gibernau Marc , Casanova Joseph , Bighelli Ange
Published: February 2016

The composition of oil samples isolated from needles of Pinus halepensis growing in three locations in Corsica (Saleccia, Capo di Feno, and Tre Padule) has been investigated by combination of chromatographic (GC with retention indices) and spectroscopic (MS and 13C‐NMR) techniques. In total, 35 compounds that accounted for 77 – 100% of the whole composition have been identified. α‐Pinene, myrcene, and (E)‐β‐caryophyllene were the major component followed by α‐humulene and 2‐phenylethyl isovalerate. Various diterpenes have been identified as minor components. 47 Oil samples isolated from pine needles have been analyzed and were differentiated in two groups. Oil samples of the first group (15 samples) contained myrcene (M = 28.1 g/100 g; SD = 10.6) and (E)‐β‐caryophyllene (M = 19.0 g/100 g; SD = 2.2) as major components and diterpenes were absent. All these oil samples were isolated from pine needles harvested in Saleccia. Oil samples of the second group (32 samples) contained mostly (E)‐β‐caryophyllene (M = 28.7 g/100 g; SD = 7.9), α‐pinene (M = 12.3 g/100 g; SD = 3.6), and myrcene (M = 11.7 g/100 g; SD = 7.3). All these oil samples were isolated from pine needles harvested in Capo di Feno and Tre Padule.
Chemical Composition of the Essential Oil and Diethyl Ether Extract of Trinia glauca (L.) Dumort. (Apiaceae) and the Chemotaxonomic Significance of 5‐O‐Methylvisamminol
Authors: Radulović Niko S. , Đorđević Miljana R. , Dekić Milan S. , Blagojević Polina D.
Published: February 2016

Analyses by GC, GC/MS, and NMR spectroscopy (1D‐ and 2D‐experiments) of the essential oil and Et2O extract of Trinia glauca (L.) Dumort. (Apiaceae) aerial parts allowed a successful identification of 220 constituents, in total. The major identified compounds of the essential oil were (Z)‐falcarinol (10.6%), bicyclogermacrene (8.0%), germacrene D (7.4%), δ‐cadinene (4.3%), and β‐caryophyllene (3.2%), whereas (Z)‐falcarinol (47.2%), nonacosane (7.4%), and 5‐O‐methylvisamminol (4.0%) were the dominant constituents of the extract of T. glauca. One significant difference between the compositions of the herein and the previously analyzed T. glauca essential oils (only two reports) was noted. (Z)‐Falcarinol was the major constituent in our case, whereas germacrene D (14.4 and 19.6%) was the major component of the previously studied oils. Possible explanations for this discrepancy were discussed. 5‐O‐Methylvisamminol, a (furo)chromone identified in the extract of T. glauca, has a limited occurrence in the plant kingdom and is a possible excellent chemotaxonomic marker (family and/or subfamily level) for Apiaceae.
A Genetically Encodable System for Sequence‐Specific Detection of RNAs in Two Colors
Authors: Kellermann Stefanie J. , Rentmeister Andrea
Published: February 2016

Multicolor readout is an important feature of RNA detection techniques aiming at the investigation of RNA localization. Several detection methods have been developed, however they require either transfection of cells with the probe or prior tagging of the target RNA. We report a fully genetically encodable system for simultaneous detection of two RNAs by using green and yellow fluorescence based on tetramolecular fluorescence complementation (TetFC). To obtain yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), substitution T203Y was introduced into one of the three non‐fluorescent GFP fragments; this was fused to different variants of the Homo sapiens Pumilio homology domain. Using different sets of fusion proteins we were able to discriminate between two closely related target RNAs based on the fluorescence signals at the respective wavelengths.
Direct Synthesis of TiO2‐Supported MoS2 Nanoparticles by Reductive Coprecipitation
Authors: van Haandel Lennart , Geus John W. , Weber Thomas
Published: February 2016

Molybdenum disulfide nanoparticles supported on titania were synthesized from aqueous solutions containing Ti and Mo precursor salts by an in situ redox reaction. The synthesis involves a redox process between Ti3+ and MoS42−, which proceeds readily under mild conditions in aqueous solution. Catalysts were made in a single step, yielding amorphous catalysts with high Mo content, or in two steps to obtain MoS2 supported on well‐defined TiO2 with lower Mo content. Catalysts obtained by single‐step reductive coprecipitation were highly active in the hydrodesulfurization of dibenzothiophene, exceeding the activity of an alumina‐supported Co–Mo reference. In contrast to alumina‐supported catalysts, the addition of Co as promoter did not enhance the catalytic activity of MoS2/TiO2 to the same extent (+30 %) as for alumina‐supported Co–Mo catalysts. Instead, a change in selectivity towards hydrogenolysis products at the expense of hydrogenation products was observed. It is suggested that Ti may act as a promoter for MoS2 in hydrogenation reactions.
Influence of the Interaction between a Tin Catalyst and an Accelerator on the Formose‐Inspired Synthesis of α‐Hydroxy‐γ‐butyrolactone
Authors: Yamaguchi Sho , Matsuo Takeaki , Motokura Ken , Miyaji Akimitsu , Baba Toshihide
Published: February 2016

In this study, we focused on the tin‐catalyzed transformation of formaldehyde into α‐hydroxy‐γ‐butyrolactone (HBL) in the presence of an α‐hydroxy carbonyl compound as the accelerator. The screening of various accelerators aided in clarifying the structural prerequisites of the accelerator for the formose‐inspired synthesis of HBL. To investigate the influence of the interactions between the tin metal and the accelerator on the catalytic activity, we performed a deuterium‐exchange experiment with α‐hydroxyacetophenone followed by in situ 119Sn NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption fine structure measurements. On the basis of the experimental results, we proposed a reaction mechanism to obtain HBL.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated Aromatic Substitution Reactions of Cyanoarenes with 4‐Alkyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridines through Double Carbon–Carbon Bond Cleavage
Authors: Nakajima Kazunari , Nojima Sunao , Sakata Ken , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: February 2016

The front cover artwork for Issue 06/2016 is provided by a collaboration between the Nishibayashi group at the University of Tokyo (Japan) and the Sakata group at Hoshi University (Japan). The image shows a photocatalyst, depicted as a luminescent jellyfish, that can cleave two distinct carbon−carbon bonds to form a new carbon−carbon bond. See the Communication itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201600037.