bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconciling the ICE‐6G_C reconstruction of glacial chronology with ice sheet dynamics: The cases of Greenland and Antarctica
Authors: Stuhne G. R. , Peltier W. R.
Published: August 2015

We describe a theoretical and numerical framework that has been developed to investigate the compatibility of the ICE‐6G_C reconstruction of the glaciation histories of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets with the latest understanding of ice physics. The ICE‐6G_C reconstruction has been produced solely on the basis of the theory of the glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) process, and it has remained an issue as to whether such reconstructions of the time‐dependent thickness variations of grounded continental ice sheets were compatible with physics‐based ice mechanical considerations. Our analyses focus on the evolution over the last glacial cycle of these extent ice sheet complexes and demonstrate that the GIA‐inferred models are entirely consistent with such considerations when uncertainties in (net) mass balance history are taken fully into account.
Volumetric MRI data correlate to disease severity in metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Tillema Jan‐Mendelt , Derks Marloes G.M. , Pouwels Petra J. W. , de Graaf Pim , van Rappard Diane F. , Barkhof Frederik , Steenweg Marjan E. , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Wolf Nicole I.
Published: August 2015

Objective

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is an inherited lysosomal disorder due to a deficiency in arylsulfatase A with progressive demyelination and neurological decline. This retrospective MRI study investigated the extent of cortical involvement at time of diagnosis, and clinical correlates to both conventional and regional volumetric measures of brain involvement.

Methods

3D‐T1‐weighted MRI scans were used to determine cortical thickness and surface‐based cerebral cortical gray matter (GM) and cerebral white matter (WM) volume (GMV and WMV), WM lesions, thalamus, and cerebellum. MRI‐MLD severity scores were obtained from FLAIR images. Associations between clinical and imaging data were examined using correlation coefficients.

Results

Twenty patients with MLD (mean age 13.7 years, range 2–35) and 20 controls (mean age 13.9 years, range 2–40) were included. Compared with control subjects, late‐infantile, and juvenile patients (n = 14) had significantly diminished cerebral cortical GMV and thalamus volume (P < 0.05), but did not differ in WMV and cortical thickness. Adult patients (n = 6) showed significantly reduced GMV, WMV and cortical thickness (all P < 0.05). Regional analysis showed statistically significant cortical thinning in the cingulate gyrus and most pronounced thinning with age in the frontal lobe of MLD patients. Intelligence quotient (IQ) correlated with MRI‐MLD scores (r = −0.87, P < 0.001).

Interpretation

Significant cerebral cortical GMV loss is already present in early stages of MLD. IQ correlates with WM severity scores and lesion volume, but not with volumetric measures. In adult presentations, there is more pronounced global atrophy with GMV and WMV loss and accelerated cortical thinning, most prominently in the cingulate gyrus and frontal lobes.
Improvement in clinical outcome of FLT3 ITD mutated acute myeloid leukemia patients over the last one and a half decade
Authors: Badar Talha , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Nogueras‐Gonzalez Graciela M. , Borthakur Gautam , Garcia Manero Guillermo , Andreeff Michael , Konopleva Marina , Kadia Tapan M. , Daver Naval , Wierda William G. , Luthra Raja , Patel Keyur , Oran Betul , Champlin Richard , Ravandi Farhad , Cortes Jorge E.
Published: August 2015

AML with FLT3 ITD mutations are associated with poor outcome. We reviewed outcomes of patients with FLT3 ITD mutated AML to investigate trends over time. We analyzed 224 AML patients (excluding patients with core binding factor and acute promyelocytic leukemia) referred to our institution between 2000 and 2014. Patients were divided into five cohorts by era: 2000–2002 (Era 1, n = 19), 2003–2005 (Era 2, n = 41), 2006–2008 (Era 3, n = 53), 2009–2011 (Era 4, n = 55), and 2012–2014 (Era 5, n = 56) to analyze differences in outcome. The baseline characteristics were not statistically different across Eras. The response rate (CR/CRp) from Era 1‐5 was 68%, 49%, 72%, 73%, and 75%, respectively. The overall response rate (all Eras) with chemotherapy alone versus chemotherapy plus FLT3 inhibitor was 67% and 72.5%, respectively (P = 0.4). The median time to relapse was 6, 3.6, 7.9, 8.1 months and not reached from Eras 1 through 5, respectively (P = 0.001). The median OS has improved: 9.6, 7.6, 14.4, 15.7, and 17.8 month from Eras 1–5, respectively (P = <0.001). Stem cell transplant as a time‐dependent variable, showed better OS in the univariate analysis (HR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.39–0.84, P = 0.004) but did not retained its significance in multivariate analysis (HR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.50–1.13, P = 0.16). Our data suggest improvement in outcome of FLT3 ITD mutated AML patients over the last 15 years. This is probably due to improvement in treatment strategies, including but not limited to integration of FLT3 inhibitors and increased use of SCT. Am. J. Hematol. 90:1065–1070, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Versatile grasping ability in power‐grip actions by tufted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp.)
Authors: Truppa Valentina , Spinozzi Giovanna , Laganà Tiziana , Piano Mortari Eva , Sabbatini Gloria
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Capuchin monkeys are well known to have a high degree of manual dexterity. In this study, we assessed the variability of capuchin grasping actions involving power grips, i.e., manual actions in which the object is grasped between the palm and one or several parts of the fingers and that do not necessarily involve individually controlled finger movements. Planning abilities in executing actions were also evaluated.

Methods

Twenty tufted capuchins (Sapajus spp.) were tested in a task requiring individuals to grasp a dowel inserted into a vertical tube. We examined their grasping techniques, focusing on the following aspects: (i) the different hand postures made during grasping, (ii) the frequency of thumb use in opposition to the other fingers, (iii) the asymmetric use of the hands, and (iv) the configuration of the grasping action for the purpose of comfortably bringing the food to the mouth.

Results

Eight power‐grip variants were identified, with individual capuchins performing an average of more than five different grips. The use of the thumb in opposition to the other areas of the hand, as reported in studies of precision grips, also appears to be a common feature in power grips. No evidence of group‐level manual asymmetries was found. Adult capuchins were better than immature individuals in planning grasping actions in relation to following task demands.

Discussion

Overall, these findings clarify the extent to which manual dexterity and cognitive abilities can be expressed in the grasping tasks of highly manually skilled primate species. Am J Phys Anthropol 159:63–72, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reactive flame retardant with core‐shell structure and its flame retardancy in rigid polyurethane foam
Authors: Luo Fubin , Wu Kun , Li Yinwen , Zheng Jian , Guo Huilong , Lu Mangeng
Published: August 2015

With a shell of poly (methyl methacrylate‐co‐hydroxyl ethyl acrylate) (PMMA‐HA), microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (MHAPP) is prepared by in situ polymerization. The core‐shell structure of the reactive flame retardant (FR) is characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). The results of water leaching rate and water contact angle measurements show that ammonium polyphosphate (APP) is well coated by a hydrophobic shell. Due to the presence of active groups (–OH) and hydrophobic groups (–CH3) in shell, MHAPP exhibits better compatibility, flame retardancy, and water resistance compared with neat ammonium polyphosphate (APP) in rigid polyurethane foam (PU). Compression strength of PU/MHAPP with suitable loading is higher than that of PU/APP and PU, the reason is that the active groups in shell can improve the compatibility of MHAPP in PU composite. From thermal stability and residue analysis, it can be seen that the presence of reactive flame retardant shows positive effect on thermal stability of PU composite at high temperature, results also indicate that MHAPP can promote the carbonization formation efficiency of PU composite during combustion process compared with APP. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42800.
In situ thermal polymerization of an ionic liquid monomer for quasi‐solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Song Pingyuan , Gao Minda , Su Ying , Zhao Jie , Zou Guifu
Published: August 2015

In situ thermal polymerization of a model ionic liquid monomer and ionic liquids mixture to form gel electrolytes is developed for quasi‐solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells (Q‐DSSCs). The chemical structures and thermal property of the monomers and polymer are investigated in detail. The effect of iodine concentration on the conductivity and triiodide diffusion of the gel electrolytes is also investigated in detail. The conductivity and triiodide diffusion of the gel electrolytes increase with the increasing I2 concentration, while excessive I2 contents will decrease the electrical performances. Based on the in situ thermal polymeric gel electrolytes for Q‐DSSCs, highest power conversion efficiency of 5.01% has been obtained. The superior long‐term stability of fabricated DSSCs indicates that the cells based on in situ thermal polymeric gel electrolytes can overcome the drawbacks of the volatile liquid electrolyte. These results offer us a feasible method to explore new gel electrolytes for high‐performance Q‐DSSCs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42802.
Pre‐clinical assessment of the effectiveness of modified polyvalent antivenom in the neutralization of Naja naja venom toxicity
Authors: Kadali Renu , Kadiyala Gopi , Gurunathan Jayaraman
Published: August 2015

The potency of conventional antivenom (AV) conjugated to soy protein nanoparticles (NPs) (C‐AV) was compared with the free AV in neutralizing the systemic toxicity of Naja naja venom. The effective dose (ED50) of AV and C‐AV to neutralize the venom‐induced toxicity in mice was found to be 19.89 and 9.50 mg, respectively. The histopathological examination of heart, liver, and kidney indicated that the systemic toxicity induced by the venom was effectively neutralized by lower concentrations of C‐AV than compared with AV. In addition, C‐AV was found to be more effective in neutralizing the edema forming activity of N. naja venom compared with the AV. Thus, the results of this study indicate that the potency of commercially available AV could be improved by conjugating it to soy protein NPs.
N‐linked glycosylation of recombinant cellobiohydrolase I (Cel7A) from Penicillium verruculosum and its effect on the enzyme activity
Authors: Dotsenko Anna S. , Gusakov Alexander V. , Volkov Pavel V. , Rozhkova Aleksandra M. , Sinitsyn Arkady P.
Published: August 2015

Cellobiohydrolase I from Penicillium verruculosum (PvCel7A) has four potential N‐glycosylation sites at its catalytic module: Asn45, Asn194, Asn388, and Asn430. In order to investigate how the N‐glycosylation influences the activity and other properties of the enzyme, the wild type (wt) PvCel7A and its mutant forms, carrying Asn to Ala substitutions, were cloned into Penicillium canescens PCA10 (niaD‐) strain, a fungal host for production of heterologous proteins. The rPvCel7A‐wt and N45A, N194A, N388A mutants were successfully expressed and purified for characterization, whereas the expression of N430A mutant was not achieved. The MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry fingerprinting of peptides, obtained as a result of digestion of rPvCel7A forms with specific proteases, showed that the N‐linked glycans represent variable high‐mannose oligosaccharides and the products of their sequential enzymatic trimming, according to the formula (Man)0‐13(GlcNAc)2, or a single GlcNAc residue. Mutations had no notable effect on pH‐optimum of PvCel7A activity and enzyme thermostability. However, the mutations influenced both the enzyme adsorption ability on Avicel and its activity against natural and synthetic substrates. In particular, the N45A mutation led to a significant increase in the rate of Avicel and milled aspen wood hydrolysis, while the substrate digestion rates in the case of N194A and N388A mutants were notably lower relative to rPvCel7A‐wt. These data, together with data of 3D structural modeling of the PvCel7A catalytic module, indicate that the N‐linked glycans are an important part of the processive catalytic machinery of PvCel7A. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 283–291. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modeling and Virtual Screening of Antisense Peptides Targeting the Divergent Region of Tumor‐Associated MT1‐MMP Protein
Authors: Tan Bowen , Zhou Yijie , Song Zhilei , Peng Yinxuan , Wu Fang , Kang Yue , Liu Xiaomin , Zeng Li , Huang Tingting , Liu Zongying , Xiong Lili , Guo Zhiyun , Cui Jian , Mao Canquan
Published: August 2015

Membrane type‐1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP; also known as MMP14) is a key enzyme involved in tumor invasion and metastasis, and is a potential target for drug discovery for cancer therapy. However, till now there is no MT1‐MMP‐ or MMP‐based anticancer drugs in the market mainly because of the high conservation of the MMP family and also because there is no elucidated crystal structure for the mature MT1‐MMP. The modeling of the three‐dimensional structure of mature MT1‐MMP and the finding of MT1‐MMP targeted peptides by virtual screening are highly desired. In this study, the three‐dimensional structure of mature MT1‐MMP is constructed by homology and de novo modeling and later rationalized and optimized by molecular dynamics simulations. An antisense peptide library was constructed against the divergent sense peptide DEGTEEET in the specific region of MT1‐MMP, which was found by multiple alignment of the whole MMP family. The antisense peptide library was virtually screened against the constructed three‐dimensional model of MT1‐MMP. The top 20 novel peptides were further studied, which were found well docked with MT1‐MMP at the region of DEGTEEET, again confirming their specific binding to MT1‐MMP. Preliminary study of one of the top‐ranked peptide SFLLSPFV showed that it could inhibit the viabilities of MG63 and MDA‐MB‐231 tumor cells. We thus not only successfully modeled the three‐dimensional structure of mature MT1‐MMP but also provided a new way for the finding of peptide candidates targeting MT1‐MMP based on antisense peptide library.
Assessing similarity models for human‐motion retrieval applications
Authors: Valcik Jakub , Sedmidubsky Jan , Zezula Pavel
Published: August 2015

The development of motion capturing devices poses new challenges in the exploitation of human‐motion data for various application fields, such as computer animation, visual surveillance, sports, or physical medicine. Recently, a number of approaches dealing with motion data have been proposed, suggesting characteristic motion features to be extracted and compared on the basis of similarity. Unfortunately, almost each approach defines its own set of motion features and comparison methods; thus, it is hard to fairly decide which similarity model is the most suitable for a given kind of human‐motion retrieval application. To cope with this problem, we propose the human motion model evaluator, which is a generic framework for assessing candidate similarity models with respect to the purpose of the target application. The application purpose is specified by a user in form of a representative sample of categorized motion data. Respecting such categorization, the similarity models are assessed from the effectiveness and efficiency points of view using a set of space‐complexity, information‐retrieval, and performance measures. The usability of the framework is demonstrated by case studies of three practical examples of retrieval applications focusing on recognition of actions, detection of similar events, and identification of subjects. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combinatorial Strategies to find New Catalysts for Asymmetric Hydrogenation Based on the Versatile Coordination Chemistry of METAMORPhos Ligands
Authors: Terrade Frédéric G. , Kluwer Alexander M. , Detz Remko J. , Abiri Zohar , van der Burg Alida M. , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: August 2015

To extend the toolbox and find improved catalysts, anionic METAMORPhos ligands and neutral amino‐acid‐based ligands were used separately and in mixtures to form Rh complexes used in the asymmetric hydrogenation of eight industrially relevant substrates. Spectroscopic studies showed that under the catalytic conditions, the mononuclear complex with two different ligands (the heterocombination) is the main complex in solution if both the anionic and neutral ligands have the same chirality. If the neutral ligand and the anionic ligand have the opposite chirality at the P atom, monometallic and bimetallic heterocomplexes were detected by NMR spectroscopy and MS. For the majority of substrates evaluated in this study, higher enantioselectivities were obtained if the complexes used were based on the heterocombination of an anionic and a neutral ligand compared to respective homocombinations. After we found the initial leads, higher turnover numbers and enantioselectivities could be obtained easily by further exploring focused ligand libraries. The superior activity of the complexes based on the different ligands is highlighted by their robustness: significant divergence from a 1:1 ratio between the ligands does not lower the selectivity of the catalyst, although more of the competing homocomplexes are formed under these conditions.
Evolution of a Unified Strategy for Complex Sesterterpenoids: Progress toward Astellatol and the Total Synthesis of (−)‐Nitidasin
Authors: Hog Daniel T. , Huber Florian M. E. , Jiménez‐Osés Gonzalo , Mayer Peter , Houk Kendall N. , Trauner Dirk
Published: August 2015

Astellatol and nitidasin belong to a subset of sesterterpenoids that share a sterically encumbered trans‐hydrindane motif with an isopropyl substituent. In addition, these natural products feature intriguing polycyclic ring systems, posing significant challenges for chemical synthesis. Herein, the evolution of our stereoselective strategy for isopropyl trans‐hydrindane sesterterpenoids is detailed. These endeavors included the synthesis of several building blocks, enabling studies toward all molecules of this terpenoid subclass, and of advanced intermediates of our initial route toward a biomimetic synthesis of astellatol. These findings provided the basis for a second‐generation and a third‐generation approach toward astellatol that eventually culminated in the enantioselective total synthesis of (−)‐nitidasin. In particular, a series of substrate‐controlled transformations to install the ten stereogenic centers of the target molecule was orchestrated and the carbocyclic backbone was forged in a convergent fashion. Furthermore, the progress toward the synthesis of astellatol is disclosed and insights into some observed yet unexpected diastereoselectivities by detailed quantum‐mechanical calculations are provided.
Are beta‐blockers on the therapeutic horizon for ovarian cancer treatment?
Authors: Bunch Kristen P. , Annunziata Christina M.
Published: August 2015

Widely used medications for other disease processes, such as beta‐blockers used for the management of hypertension, may provide therapeutic potential in patients with cancer, perhaps by altering the tumor microenvironment. The article by Watkins et al in the current issue performed a comprehensive review of beta‐blocker use in women with ovarian cancer, and identified nonselective beta‐blockers associated with longer overall survival.
Ultrathin Mesoporous NiCo2O4 Nanosheet Networks as High‐Performance Anodes for Lithium Storage
Authors: Leng Xuning , Shao Yuan , Wei Sufeng , Jiang Zhonghao , Lian Jianshe , Wang Guoyong , Jiang Qing
Published: August 2015

Ultrathin mesoporous NiCo2O4 nanosheets were directly grown on Ni foams to form an efficient and reversible anode for lithium‐ion half‐cell batteries. Nanosheets with wrinkles, which were monolayers of 10 nm NiCo2O4 nanoparticles, were interconnected to build up a honeycomb‐like architecture that offered a large electrolyte contact area and good structural integrity. The firm attachment of the sheets on the foam endows the anode with good electrical conductivity and excellent mechanical stability. Electrochemical measurements confirm that the electrode has a better performance at reversible Li+ storage (specific capacity of 1170.1 mA h g−1 in the 50th cycle at 0.2 C) than the pasted electrode made of NiCo2O4 nanosheets powder.
Learn 7 ways Tennessee community colleges doubled completion rates
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2015

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — When Barack Obama unveiled his bill for America's College Promise in January 2015, one of the models upon which the proposal was based came from the example set by the Tennessee Board of Regents, a collection of 13 community colleges and six four‐year universities. Recognizing that by 2020, 65 percent of jobs in the United States will require some level of postsecondary education, Tennessee passed the Complete College Tennessee Act in 2010.
Draw on your existing skills as a new dean
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2015

When Judah Viola thinks about deans and mentors he has worked with, he can identify the qualities he values most: being willing to hear and listen and share their perspective; being open, honest and authentic; and bringing energy and passion to their work every day.
Exposing the structure of an Arctic food web
Authors: Wirta Helena K. , Vesterinen Eero J. , Hambäck Peter A. , Weingartner Elisabeth , Rasmussen Claus , Reneerkens Jeroen , Schmidt Niels M. , Gilg Olivier , Roslin Tomas
Published: August 2015

How food webs are structured has major implications for their stability and dynamics. While poorly studied to date, arctic food webs are commonly assumed to be simple in structure, with few links per species. If this is the case, then different parts of the web may be weakly connected to each other, with populations and species united by only a low number of links. We provide the first highly resolved description of trophic link structure for a large part of a high‐arctic food web. For this purpose, we apply a combination of recent techniques to describing the links between three predator guilds (insectivorous birds, spiders, and lepidopteran parasitoids) and their two dominant prey orders (Diptera and Lepidoptera). The resultant web shows a dense link structure and no compartmentalization or modularity across the three predator guilds. Thus, both individual predators and predator guilds tap heavily into the prey community of each other, offering versatile scope for indirect interactions across different parts of the web. The current description of a first but single arctic web may serve as a benchmark toward which to gauge future webs resolved by similar techniques. Targeting an unusual breadth of predator guilds, and relying on techniques with a high resolution, it suggests that species in this web are closely connected. Thus, our findings call for similar explorations of link structure across multiple guilds in both arctic and other webs. From an applied perspective, our description of an arctic web suggests new avenues for understanding how arctic food webs are built and function and of how they respond to current climate change. It suggests that to comprehend the community‐level consequences of rapid arctic warming, we should turn from analyses of populations, population pairs, and isolated predator–prey interactions to considering the full set of interacting species.
Syndecan‐1 identifies and controls the frequency of IL‐17‐producing naïve natural killer T (NKT17) cells in mice
Authors: Dai Hong , Rahman Ayesha , Saxena Ankit , Jaiswal Anil K , Mohamood Abdiaziz , Ramirez Lourdes , Noel Sanjeev , Rabb Hamid , Jie Chunfa , Hamad Abdel Rahim A
Published: August 2015

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells recognize glycolipids as antigens and diversify into NKT1 (IFN‐γ), NKT2 (IL‐4), and NKT17 (IL‐17) functional subsets while developing in the thymus. Mechanisms that govern the balance between these functional subsets are poorly understood due, partly, to the lack of distinguishing surface markers. Here we identify the heparan sulfate proteoglycan syndecan‐1 (sdc1) as a specific marker of naïve thymic NKT17 cells in mice and show that sdc1 deficiency significantly increases thymic NKT17 cells at the expense of NKT1 cells, leading to impairediNKT cell‐derived IFN‐γ, both in vitro and in vivo. Using surface expression of sdc1 to identify NKT17 cells, we confirm differential tissue localization and interstrain variability of NKT17 cells, and reveal that NKT17 cells express high levels of TCR‐β, preferentially use Vβ8, and are more highly sensitive to ɑ‐GalCer than to CD3/CD28 stimulation. These findings provide a novel, noninvasive, simple method for identification, and viable sorting of naïve NKT17 cells from unmanipulated mice, and suggest that sdc1 expression negatively regulates homeostasis iniNKT cells. In addition, these findings lay the groundwork for investigating the mechanisms by which sdc1 regulates NKT17 cells.
Novel Nonenzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide Sensor Based on Ag/Cu2O Nanocomposites
Authors: Qi Chengcheng , Zheng Jianbin
Published: August 2015

The nanocomposites of Ag nanoparticles supported on Cu2O were prepared and used for fabricating a novel nonenzymatic H2O2 sensor. The morphology and composition of the nanocomposites were characterized using the scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrum (EDX) and X‐ray diffraction spectrum (XRD). The electrochemical investigations indicate that the sensor possesses an excellent performance toward H2O2. The linear range is estimated to be from 2.0 μM to 13.0 mM with a sensitivity of 88.9 μA mM−1 cm−2, a response time of 3 s and a low detection limit of 0.7 μM at a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3. Additionally, the sensor exhibits good anti‐interference.
Capillary isoelectric focusing‐mass spectrometry: Coupling strategies and applications
Authors: Hühner Jens , Lämmerhofer Michael , Neusüß Christian
Published: August 2015

IEF on immobilized pH gradient strips is a widespread tool for protein separation, especially as first dimension in commonly utilized 2DE. In the latter arrangement, separations are based on two orthogonal molecular characteristics according to pI in the first and molecular weight in the second dimension. However, the approach is time consuming, quantification is difficult and MS can be applied only offline. Capillary IEF and related IEF techniques in combination with MS provide similar information. The major benefits are high mass resolution and mass accuracy, reproducibility, speed, automation, and quantification by using a high‐resolution mass spectrometer. However, online hyphenation of CIEF with MS is interfered by the ampholytes, acids, and bases needed for high‐resolution IEF. This review will give an overview about important coupling techniques, like low ampholyte concentration, interim separation by chromatography, or the use of a dialysis interface to separate the analytes from interfering substances. It is focused on strategies which allow sensitive MS detection of CIEF‐separated analytes. In addition, proteomic and biopharmaceutical applications of capillary IEF techniques combined with MS are briefly summarized.
ISSR marker‐based detection of genomic stability in Cassia occidentalis L. plantlets derived from somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Naz Ruphi , Anis Mohammad , Alatar Abdulrahman A.
Published: August 2015

An efficient in vitro technology has been designed for mass multiplication of Cassia occidentalis (coffee senna) through somatic embryogenesis. Genetic stability of both regenerants and mother plant was evaluated. Embryogenic calli were produced on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 20.0 μM 2,4‐dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4‐D). Induction of somatic embryos occurred after transfer of calli to medium with reduced concentration of 2,4‐D (10.0 μM) fortified with 1.0 μM abscisic acid (ABA). Subculturing of these embryos onto the maturation medium (1.5 μM 6‐benzyladenine + 1.0 μM ABA + 0.3 μM α‐naphthalene acetic acid) favored progression of the embryos through torpedo, heart‐shaped, and cotyledonary stages; one‐half MS medium was considered the best for conversion of cotyledonary stage embryos to young plantlets. The plantlets were acclimatized to autoclaved soil rite, after which they were transferred to the green house. Among the survived plantlets, 10 plants for each primer were randomly selected for inter‐simple sequence repeat (ISSR) analysis. Of the 10 primers tested, 5 produced reproducible and monomorphic bands, 2 led to minor variation with the appearance of unique bands, and the remaining 3 did not show any banding pattern. The majority of the regenerants had similar characteristics to the donor plant, suggesting genetic homogeneity of in vitro raised plants.
Characteristics of street dust inJianshengTown,ChongqingCity,China
Authors: Wang Long‐Tao , Zhao Jian‐Wei , Duan Bing‐Zheng , Zhu Duan‐Wei , Hua Yu‐Mei , Zhou Wen‐Bing , Liu Guang‐Long
Published: August 2015

Samples of typical street dust were collected from Jiansheng Town, Chongqing City and classified into four groups on the basis of particle size: 0–75, 75–150, 150–300, and 300–1000 μm. The pollutant content and heavy metal composition of the samples were investigated. The particles in the 0–75, 75–150, 150–300, and 300–1000 μm groups had mass fractions of 20.82% ± 8.86%, 24.68% ± 9%, 30.83% ± 9.76%, and 23.68% ± 15.56%, respectively. The highest concentration of nutritional pollutants was detected in the 300–1,000 µm group, with total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations of 3.07 ± 2.48, 0.64 ± 0.39, and 83.79 ± 65.28 g/kg, respectively. The lowest concentration of nutritional pollutants was observed in the 150–300 μm group, with TN, TP, and TOC concentrations of 1.78 ± 1.22, 0.51 ± 0.20, and 36.74 ± 24.64 g/kg, respectively. The nutritional pollutants presented similar mass fractions in the street dust samples with different particle sizes. Vegetation significantly affected the TOC content in the samples. The TOC content of the streets with rich vegetation was 1.90 ± 0.56 times that of the streets with less vegetation. The 150–300 µm group had the highest heavy metal mass percentage. Among the heavy metals detected in street dust, Cd, Cr, and Ni were mainly residuals; Cu and Pb were oxidizable; and Zn was mainly acid‐extractable. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 794–801, 2016
Experimental and numerical modeling of CO2 leakage in the vadose zone
Authors: Gasparini Andrea , Credoz Anthony , Grandia Fidel , Garcia David Angel , Bruno Jordi
Published: August 2015

This study presents the experimental and modeling results of CO2 injection and transport in the vadose zone performed in PISCO2 facilities at the ES.CO2 center in Ponferrada (North Spain). During 46 days of experiments, 62.10 kg of CO2 were injected through 16 micro‐injectors in a 35 m3 experimental unit filled with sandy material. Monitoring and mapping of surface CO2 flux were performed periodically to assess the evolution of CO2 migration through the soil and to the atmosphere. Numerical simulations were run using TOUGH2 code with EOS7CA research module considering two phases (gas and liquid) and three components (H2O, CO2, air). Two layers (sand, gravel) and atmosphere boundary were implemented taking into account heterogeneous soils, homogeneous soil, rainfall, temperature, and liquid saturation to allow a better understanding of CO2 behavior in the vadose zone. This combined experimental and modeling approach shows that CO2 leakage in the vadose zone quickly comes out through preferential migration pathways and spots with the ranges of fluxes in the ground/surface interface from 2.5 to 600 g·m−2·day−1. This gas channeling is mainly related to soil compaction and climatic perturbation. This has significant implications for design‐adapted detection and monitoring strategies of early leakage in commercial CO2 storage. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Differentiation of ovarian development and the evolution of fecundity in rapidly diverging exotic beetle populations
Authors: Macagno Anna L. M. , Beckers Oliver M. , Moczek Armin P.
Published: August 2015

Fecundity is a fundamental determinant of fitness, yet the proximate developmental and physiological mechanisms that enable its often rapid evolution in natural populations are poorly understood. Here, we investigated two populations of the dung beetle Onthophagus taurus that were established in exotic ranges in the early 1970s. These populations are subject to drastically different levels of resource competition in the field, and have diverged dramatically in female fecundity. Specifically, Western Australian O. taurus experience high levels of resource competition, and exhibit greatly elevated reproductive output compared to beetles from the Eastern US, where resource competition is minimal and female fecundity is low. We compared patterns of ovarian maturation, relative investment into and timing of egg production, and potential trade‐offs between ovarian investment and the duration of larval development and adult body size between populations representative of both exotic ranges. We found that the rapid divergence in fecundity between exotic populations is associated with striking differences in several aspects of ovarian development: (1) Western Australian females exhibit accelerated ovarian development, (2) produce more eggs, (3) bigger eggs, and (4) start laying eggs earlier compared to their Eastern US counterparts. At the same time, divergence in ovarian maturation patterns occurred alongside changes in (5) larval developmental time, and (6) adult body size, and (7) mass. Western Australian females take longer to complete larval development and, surprisingly, emerge into smaller yet heavier adults than size‐matched Eastern US females. We discuss our results in the context of the evolutionary developmental biology of fecundity in exotic populations. J. Exp. Zool. 323A: 679–688, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The genetic and developmental basis of an exaggerated craniofacial trait in East African cichlids
Authors: Concannon Moira R. , Albertson R. Craig
Published: August 2015

The evolution of an exaggerated trait can lead to a novel morphology that allows organisms to exploit new niches. The molecular bases of such phenotypes can reveal insights into the evolution of unique traits. Here, we investigate a rare morphological innovation in modern haplochromine cichlids, a flap of fibrous tissue that causes a pronounced projection of the snout, which is limited to a single genus (Labeotropheus) of Lake Malawi cichlids. We compare flap size in our focal species L. fuelleborni (LF) to homologous landmarks in other closely related cichlid species that show a range of ecological overlap with LF, and demonstrate that variation in flap size is discontinuous among Malawi cichlid species. We demonstrate further that flap development in LF begins at early juvenile stages, and scales allometrically with body size. We then used an F2 hybrid mapping population, derived via crossing LF to a close ecological competitor that lacks this trait, Tropheops “red cheek” (TRC), to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) that underlie flap development. In all, we identified four loci associated with variation in flap size, and for each the LF allele contributed to a larger flap. We next cross‐referenced our QTL map with population genomic data, comparing natural populations of LF and TRC, to identify divergent polymorphisms within each QTL interval. Candidate genes for flap development are discussed. Together, these data indicate a relatively simple and tractable genetic basis for this morphological innovation, which is consistent with its apparently sudden and saltatory evolutionary history. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 324B: 662–670, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Representations of Women in Microcredit Promotional Materials: The Case of Espoir Ecuador
Authors: Valencia‐Fourcans Lidia , Hawkins Roberta
Published: August 2015

In this paper, we explore the nature and practices of representations of women in microcredit promotional discourses. Based on the case of Espoir, a microcredit non‐governmental organization in Ecuador, we argue that the representations of women in microcredit promotional discourses have been reshaped increasingly by neoliberal configurations of power. These discourses reinforce the conceptualization of women as key actors in the development process—of their households and communities, and Ecuador as a nation. This conceptualization elicits conflicting and contradictory implications that may empower women but exacerbate neoliberal understandings of development that can undermine gender equality. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding guest and pressure‐induced porosity through structural transition in flexible interpenetrated MOF by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Kumari Gayatri , Patil N. R. , Bhadram Venkata Srinu , Haldar Ritesh , Bonakala Satyanarayana , Maji Tapas Kumar , Narayana Chandrabhas
Published: August 2015

Interpenetrating metal organic frameworks are interesting functional materials exhibiting exceptional framework properties. Uptake or exclusion of guest molecules can induce sliding in the framework making it porous or non‐porous. To understand this dynamic nature and how framework interaction changes during sliding, metal organic framework (MOF) 508 {Zn(BDC)( 4,4′‐Bipy)0.5 · DMF(H2O)0.5} was selected for study. We have investigated structural transformation in MOF‐508 under variable conditions of temperature, pressure and gas loading using Raman spectroscopy and substantiated it with IR studies and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Conformational changes in the organic linkers leading to the sliding of the framework result in changes in Raman spectra. These changes in the organic linkers are measured as a function of high pressure and low temperature, suggesting that the dynamism in MOF‐508 framework is driven by ligand conformation change and inter‐linker interactions. The presence of Raman signatures of adsorbed CO2 and its librational mode at 149 cm−1 suggests cooperative adsorption of CO2 in the MOF‐508 framework, which is also confirmed from DFT calculations that give a binding energy of 34 kJ/mol. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
All characteristic Raman markers of tyrosine and tyrosinate originate from phenol ring fundamental vibrations
Authors: Hernández Belén , Coïc Yves‐Marie , Pflüger Fernando , Kruglik Sergei G. , Ghomi Mahmoud
Published: August 2015

Raman data collected from free amino acid and peptide chains permit assignment of the seven markers located at approximately 1616, 1606, 1210, 1178, 850, 830, and 643 cm−1 to tyrosine. The effects induced by labile hydrogen deuteration, temperature, concentration, and protonation–deprotonation on these Raman markers were analyzed. Following closely a recent multiconformational analysis on phenylalanine, we could confirm the predominance of gauche‐/gauche‐ rotamers with respect to the side chain χ1/χ2 torsion angles in both tyrosine and tyrosinate. Calculated Raman spectra, based on the consideration of both implicit and explicit hydration models, have revealed the effect of hydrogen bonding of water molecules to the phenol ring hydroxyl group of tyrosine. A special attention has been paid to the 850/830 cm−1 tyrosine doublet, for which no intensity ratio inversion could be remarked when the phenol hydroxyl group acts as a hydrogen bond donor or acceptor. On the contrary, this intensity ratio appeared to be strongly dependent on the hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance of the interactions, in which the phenol ring is involved. Based on the present theoretical calculations, the components of the tyrosine doublet might originate from two independent fundamental modes of the phenol ring: one with an in‐plane character and the other with an out‐of‐plane character. As a consequence, the widely spread Fermi resonance‐based description of the tyrosine doublet appears to be unjustified. The latter interpretation simply results from the insufficiencies of the simple model compound used at that time for analyzing the vibrational features of a more complex molecular system such as tyrosine. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of a permethylated β‐cyclodextrin chiral stationary phase by one‐pot hydrosilylation and immobilization at the C2 position for chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Shi Yanyan , Ng Siu‐Choon , Wu Zhihua , Wang Yong
Published: August 2015

A novel cyclodextrin intermediate, mono‐2A‐allylcarbamido‐2A‐deoxy‐permethylated β‐cyclodextrin, was synthesized by reacting allylamine and newly prepared mono‐2A‐azido‐2A‐deoxy‐permethylated β‐cyclodextrin by the Staudinger reaction and anchored onto porous silica beads by a one‐pot hydrosilylation and immobilization procedure to afford a novel chiral stationary phase. This stationary phase acts as a new member of the previous chiral stationary phase series immobilized on the cyclodextrin C2 position. This stationary phase depicted enantiomeric separation abilities toward a series of bicyclic and tricyclic racemates under reversed‐phase conditions. The resolutions for hesperetin and naringenin achieved on the current phase reached 3.91 and 1.11, respectively, much higher than the previous permethylated β‐cyclodextrin with the linkage at the C6 position.
The Effect of Metal‐Ligand Affinity on Fe3O4_Supported Co–Rh Catalysts for Dicyclopentadiene Hydroformylation
Authors: Ma Yubo , Qing Shaojun , Li Nana , Zhang Letao , Li Shouzhu , Gao Zhixian , Li Hongyi , Eli Wumanjiang , Wang Tianfu
Published: August 2015

The catalytic performances of Co‐Rh/Fe3O4 catalysts modified with phosphine ligands (PPh3) and its analogues on dicyclopentadiene hydroformylation were evaluated. Among these catalysts, Co‐Rh/Fe3O4 modified with tris(p‐trifluoromethylphenyl)phosphine was determined to be effective for monoformyltricyclodecanes production, whereas Co‐Rh/Fe3O4 modified with PPh3 or tri‐p‐tolylphosphine was effective for the diformyltricyclodecanes production. To investigate the ligand effects, the complex catalyst system (Co‐Rh/Fe3O4 and phosphine ligand) was subjected to pretreatment with syngas and then characterized by thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA). It was determined that the threshold decomposition temperature reflected the corresponding Rh‐phosphine interaction strength, affecting the catalytic selectivity toward different products. A weak Rh‐phosphine interaction was desirable to produce monoformyltricyclodecanes with fast reaction kinetics, whereas a strong Rh‐phosphine complex was required for the synthesis of diformyltricyclodecanes. In addition to the selectivity rule shown in the PPh3 series, experiments with other ligands also demonstrated similar selectivity trends.
Kinetic Modeling of Ethylene Glycol Monoesterification
Authors: Pečar Darja , Goršek Andreja
Published: August 2015

The monoesterification of ethylene glycol under isothermal conditions was conducted using benzoic acid in methane‐sulfonic acid/Al2O3 as a catalyst. Using this reagent, glycol was selectively monoesterified with high yield. The reactions were performed within an automated batch reactor under equimolar conditions, constant rotational frequency of the stirrer, and within the temperature range from 65 to 85°C. The rate constant related to this reaction and to the corresponding reverse reaction, activation energy, and preexponential factor was derived from experimental data. It has been concluded that under these conditions the formation of dibenzoate was successfully prevented.
Asymptotic gauges: Generalization of Colombeau type algebras
Authors: Giordano Paolo , Luperi Baglini Lorenzo
Published: August 2015

We use the general notion of set of indices to construct algebras of nonlinear generalized functions of Colombeau type. They are formally defined in the same way as the special Colombeau algebra, but based on more general “growth condition” formalized by the notion of asymptotic gauge. This generalization includes the special, full and nonstandard analysis based Colombeau type algebras in a unique framework. We compare Colombeau algebras generated by asymptotic gauges with other analogous construction, and we study systematically their properties, with particular attention to the existence and definition of embeddings of distributions. We finally prove that, in our framework, for every linear homogeneous ODE with generalized coefficients there exists a minimal Colombeau algebra generated by asymptotic gauges in which the ODE can be uniquely solved. This marks a main difference with the Colombeau special algebra, where only linear homogeneous ODEs satisfying some restrictions on the coefficients can be solved.
Thermoresponsive Substrates Used for the Growth and Controlled Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Fan Xingliang , Nash Maria E. , Gorelov Alexander V. , Barry Frank P. , Shaw Georgina , Rochev Yury A.
Published: August 2015

This communication outlines the advances made in the development of thermoresponsive substrates for human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) expansion and subsequent controlled specific and multilineage differentiation from a previous study performed by this group. Previously, the development of an inexpensive and technically accessible method for hMSC expansion and harvesting was reported, using the solvent casting deposition method and thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide). Here, the logical continuation of this work is reported with the multipassage expansion of hMSCs with phenotypic maintenance followed by induced adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic differentiation. Interestingly, 1 μm thick solvent cast films are not only capable of hosting an expanding population of phenotypically preserved hMSCs similar to tissue culture plastic controls, but also the cells detached via temperature control better maintain their ability to differentiate compared to conventionally trypsinized cells. This approach to hMSC expansion and differentiation can be highly attractive to stem cell researchers where clinical therapies have seen a collective deviation away from the employment of animal derived products such as proteolytic trypsin.

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Maleimide Glycidyl Ether: A Bifunctional Monomer for Orthogonal Cationic and Radical Polymerizations
Authors: Klein Rebecca , Übel Fabian , Frey Holger
Published: August 2015

A novel bifunctional monomer, namely maleimide glycidyl ether (MalGE), prepared in a four‐step reaction sequence is introduced. This monomer allows for selective (co)polymerization of the epoxide group via cationic ring‐opening polymerization, preserving the maleimide functionality. On the other hand, the maleimide functionality can be copolymerized via radical techniques, preserving the epoxide moiety. Cationic ring‐opening multibranching copolymerization of MalGE with glycidol was performed, and a MalGE content of up to 24 mol% could be incorporated into the hyperbranched polymer backbone (Mn = 1000–3000 g mol−1). Preservation of the maleimide functionality during cationic copolymerization was verified via NMR spectroscopy. Subsequently, the maleimide moiety was radically crosslinked to generate hydrogels and additionally employed to perform Diels‐Alder (DA) “click” reactions with (functional) dienes after the polymerization process. Radical copolymerization of MalGE with styrene (Mn = 5000–9000 g mol−1) enabled the synthesis of a styrene copolymer with epoxide functionalities that are useful for versatile crosslinking and grafting reactions.

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