bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling heterogeneity in the pluripotent state: A promising strategy for improving the efficiency and fidelity of stem cell differentiation
Authors: Espinosa Angarica Vladimir , del Sol Antonio
Published: June 2016

Pluripotency can be considered a functional characteristic of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) populations and their niches, rather than a property of individual cells. In this view, individual cells within the population independently adopt a variety of different expression states, maintained by different signaling, transcriptional, and epigenetics regulatory networks. In this review, we propose that generation of integrative network models from single cell data will be essential for getting a better understanding of the regulation of self‐renewal and differentiation. In particular, we suggest that the identification of network stability determinants in these integrative models will provide important insights into the mechanisms mediating the transduction of signals from the niche, and how these signals can trigger differentiation. In this regard, the differential use of these stability determinants in subpopulation‐specific regulatory networks would mediate differentiation into different cell fates. We suggest that this approach could offer a promising avenue for the development of novel strategies for increasing the efficiency and fidelity of differentiation, which could have a strong impact on regenerative medicine.
Fluorescent carbon nanoparticles from Citrus sinensis as efficient sorbents for pollutant dyes
Authors: Adedokun Oluwaseun , Roy Anurag , Awodugba Ayodeji O. , Devi P. Sujatha
Published: June 2016

Here, we report a simple, green and economic process for the synthesis of highly fluorescent carbon nanoparticles (CPs) through low‐temperature carbonization of a fruit waste, Citrus sinensis peel. This approach allows the large‐scale production of aqueous CPs dispersions without any additives and post‐treatment processes. The as‐prepared CPs were of small particle size, exhibited bright blue fluorescence under UV irradiation (λmax = 365 nm) with excellent colloidal stability in water. The chemical composition, structure and morphology of the as‐prepared CPs were analyzed using various spectroscopic techniques such as X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and raman spectroscopy. The formed CPs were turbostratic in nature, with a large number of functional groups on the surface. We explored the adsorption characteristics of the formed CPs for wastewater treatment. Because of the negative surface of the CPs, as evident from the zeta value, it is possible to use them for selective adsorption of the cationic dye methylene blue from a mixture of dyes. The equilibrium adsorption isotherm revealed that the Langmuir model better describes the adsorption process than the Freundlich model. As‐prepared CPs rapidly adsorbed ~84% of the methylene blue within 1 min and can be regenerated and used repeatedly. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and evaluation of a digital module with guided peer feedback for student learning biotechnology and molecular life sciences, attitudinal change, and satisfaction
Authors: Noroozi Omid , Mulder Martin
Published: June 2016

This study aims to investigate the impacts of a digital learning module with guided peer feedback on students' domain‐specific knowledge gain and their attitudinal change in the field of biotechnology and molecular life sciences. The extent to which the use of this module is appreciated by students is studied as well. A pre‐test, post‐test design was used with 203 students who were randomly assigned to groups of three. They were asked to work on the digital module with the aim of exploring various perspectives, and the “pros and cons” on the topic of “Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).” The results suggest that the module can be used to foster students' domain‐specific knowledge gain and their attitudinal change. Furthermore, the module was evaluated positively in terms of students' motivation and satisfaction with the learning experiences. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 45(1):31–39, 2017.
Insights into the Interface Between the Electrolytic Solution and the Gold Core in Molecular Au25 Clusters
Authors: Antonello Sabrina , Dainese Tiziano , De Nardi Marco , Perotti Lorena , Maran Flavio
Published: June 2016

We used a large series of Au25(SCnH2n+1)180 clusters (n=2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18) to study the effect of n and the presence of electrolytes on the redox potentials. The electrochemical results were analyzed in the framework of concentric‐capacitor models that were previously proposed to describe larger monolayer‐protected clusters. We found that the average dielectric constant of the monolayer (ϵm) is significantly larger than that of the ligand chains. The effective value of ϵm depends on n and is the result of contributions from ligands, solvent, and electrolyte. As n increased, ϵm decreased until a virtually constant value was attained for sufficiently long ligands. The electrochemically calculated HOMO–LUMO energy gap, conversely, does not depend on n and, therefore, ϵm. This energy gap is, within error, the same as that obtained from the optical spectra of the same clusters.
Inherently Chiral Spider‐Like Oligothiophenes
Authors: Sannicolò Francesco , Mussini Patrizia R. , Benincori Tiziana , Martinazzo Rocco , Arnaboldi Serena , Appoloni Giulio , Panigati Monica , Quartapelle Procopio Elsa , Marino Valentina , Cirilli Roberto , Casolo Simone , Kutner Wlodzimierz , Noworyta Krzysztof , Pietrzyk‐Le Agnieszka , Iskierko Zofia , Bartold Katarzyna
Published: June 2016

The racemate of an inherently chiral “spider‐like” octathiophene monomer T83, in which chirality is generated by torsion in its backbone, was synthesized. The racemate was resolved into configurationally stable antipodes by HPLC on a chiral stationary phase. Electrooxidation of the enantiomers resulted in materials displaying high enantiorecognition ability towards the antipodes of some chiral probes. Moreover, the T83 racemate demonstrated great aptitude to stimulate formation of 3D rigid architectures if used as a cross‐linking monomer for molecular imprinting. This feature was exploited to devise a molecularly imprinted polymer‐based chemosensor selective for a thymine–adenine oligonucleotide.
Cadmium(II)–Triazole Framework as a Luminescent Probe for Ca2+ and Cyano Complexes
Authors: Wang Ying , Xu Ping , Xie Qiong , Ma Qing‐Qing , Meng Yan‐Hui , Wang Zi‐Wen , Zhang Shaowei , Zhao Xiao‐Jun , Chen Jun , Wang Zhong‐Liang
Published: June 2016

A bidentate ligand, 1‐{4‐[4‐(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)phenoxy]phenyl}‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole (TPPT), has been designed and synthesized. By using TPPT as a building block for self‐assembly with Cd(NO3)2⋅4 H2O and CdCl2⋅10.5 H2O, novel 1D double‐chain {[Cd(TPPT)(NO3)2]⋅3 H2O}n (1) and 2D (4,4) layer [Cd(TPPT)Cl2(H2O)]n (2) have been constructed. When 1 was employed as a precursor and exposed to DMF or N,N′‐dimethylacetamide (DMAC), the crystals of 1 dissolved and reassembled into two types of brown block‐shaped crystals of 1D double chains: {[Cd(TPPT)2(NO3)2]⋅DMF}n (1 a) and {[Cd(TPPT)2(NO3)2]⋅DMAC}n (1 b). The anion‐exchange reactions of complex 2 have also been investigated. After gently stirring crystals of 2 in CHCl3/C2H5OH/H2O containing NaBr, NaI⋅2 H2O, or NaOAc⋅3 H2O, the crystals retained their crystalline appearances. A remarkable single crystal to single crystal transformation was observed and 1D double chains of {[Cd(TPPT)Br2]⋅C2H5OH}n (2 a) and {[Cd(TPPT)2I2]⋅CHCl3}n (2 b), and 1D single chains of [Cd(TPPT)(H2O)2(CH3COO)2]n (2 c), can be obtained. Luminescent properties indicate that 1 shows excellent selectivity for Ca2+ and cyano complexes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a luminescent probe for Ca2+ based on triazole derivatives.
Host–Guest Chemistry between Perylene Diimide (PDI) Derivatives and 18‐Crown‐6: Enhancement in Luminescence Quantum Yield and Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Lasitha P. , Prasad Edamana
Published: June 2016

Perylene diimide (PDI) derivatives exhibit a high propensity for aggregation, which causes the aggregation‐induced quenching of emission from the system. Host–guest chemistry is one of the best‐known methods for preventing aggregation through the encapsulation of guest molecules. Herein we report the use of 18‐crown‐6 (18‐C‐6) as a host system to disaggregate suitably substituted PDI derivatives in methanol. 18‐C‐6 formed complexes with amino‐substituted PDIs in methanol, which led to disaggregation and enhanced emission from the systems. Furthermore, the embedding of the PDI⋅18‐C‐6 complexes in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) films generated remarkably high emission quantum yields (60–70 %) from the PDI derivatives. More importantly, the host–guest systems were tested for their ability to conduct electricity in PVA films. The electrical conductivities of the self‐assembled systems in PVA were measured by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and the highest conductivity observed was 2.42×10−5 S cm−1.
Specific Design of Titanium(IV) Phenolato Chelates Yields Stable and Accessible, Effective and Selective Anticancer Agents
Authors: Meker Sigalit , Braitbard Ori , Hall Matthew D. , Hochman Jacob , Tshuva Edit Y.
Published: June 2016

Octahedral titanium(IV) complexes of phenolato hexadentate ligands were developed and showed very high stability for days in water solutions. In vitro cytotoxicity studies showed that, whereas tetrakis(phenolato) systems are generally of low activity presumably due to inaccessibility, smaller bis(phenolato)bis(alkoxo) complexes feature high anticancer activity and accessibility even without formulations, also toward a cisplatin‐resistant cell line. An all‐aliphatic control complex was unstable and inactive. A leading phenolato complex also revealed: 1) high durability in fully aqueous solutions; accordingly, negligible loss of activity after preincubation for three days in medium or in serum; 2) maximal cellular accumulation and induction of apoptosis following 24–48 h of administration; 3) reduced impact on noncancerous fibroblast cells; 4) in vivo efficacy toward lymphoma cells in murine model; 5) high activity in NCI‐60 panel, with average GI50 of 4.6±2 μm. This newly developed family of TiIV complexes is thus of great potential for anticancer therapy.
Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed Intermolecular Allylic Dearomatization of Indoles by a Formal [4+2] Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Gao Run‐Duo , Xu Qing‐Long , Zhang Bo , Gu Yiting , Dai Li‐Xin , You Shu‐Li
Published: June 2016

Bridged indoline derivatives were synthesized by an intermolecular Pd‐catalyzed allylic dearomatization reaction of substituted indoles. The reaction between indoles and allyl carbonates bearing a nucleophilic alcohol side‐chain proceeds in a cascade fashion, providing bridged indolines in excellent enantioselectivity.
Iron‐Catalyzed Hydroboration: Unlocking Reactivity through Ligand Modulation
Authors: Espinal‐Viguri Maialen , Woof Callum R. , Webster Ruth L.
Published: June 2016

Iron‐catalyzed hydroboration (HB) of alkenes and alkynes is reported. A simple change in ligand structure leads to an extensive change in catalyst activity. Reactions proceed efficiently over a wide range of challenging substrates including activated, unactivated and sterically encumbered motifs. Conditions are mild and do not require the use of reducing agents or other additives. Large excesses of borating reagent are not required, allowing control of chemo‐ and regioselectivity in the presence of multiple double bonds. Mechanistic insight reveals that the reaction is likely to proceed via a highly reactive iron hydride intermediate.
Combustion characteristics of ultrafine gasified semi‐char in circulating fluidized bed
Authors: Ren Qiangqiang , Bao Shaolin
Published: June 2016

Coal fluidized bed gasification generates large amounts of semi‐char, which has a high carbon content. Effectively re‐burning semi‐char has become a promising way to improve overall conversion efficiency of coal gasification and use the residue carbon in the semi‐char. However, due to the ultrafine particle size (mean particle size ≈ tens of microns), nearly zero volatile content, and the graphitization structure of the semi‐char, the fluidization and combustion organization of semi‐char in a circulating fluidized bed (CFB) is difficult, leading to poor self‐sustained combustion stability and low combustion efficiency. The physicochemical properties of the semi‐char from an industrial CFB gasifier were studied. The combustion characteristics and activation energy of the semi‐char were tested using thermogravimetric analysis. The occurrence of sulphur and nitrogen in the semi‐char and fly ash after combustion were characterized with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). A re‐burning experiment was carried out in a 5 t/day CFB pilot facility. The key is to build a balance between sufficient residence time to burnout and a proper fluidization velocity for bed material cycle. The effects of residence time, preheating temperature, and the ratio of preheating air to fuel on the combustion efficiency and pollutant emission was studied. The balance between the preheating time and residence time in the furnace was discussed. Results show that it can reach stable combustion in a specially designed CFB furnace without auxiliary fuel and the combustion efficiency can be higher than 98 %.
Simple Engineering of Polymer–Nanoparticle Hybrid Nanocapsules
Authors: Sciortino Flavien , Casterou Gérald , Eliat Pierre‐Antoine , Troadec Marie‐Bérengère , Gaillard Cédric , Chevance Soizic , Kahn Myrtil L , Gauffre Fabienne
Published: June 2016

A general method to generate hybrid hollow capsules is reported. The process is based on the stabilization of solvent droplets by nanoparticles, in macroscopically miscible mixtures of tetrahydrofuran (THF) and water. After addition of a crosslinking polymer and removal of the solvent core, capsules of diameter ca 100 nm are obtained. This novel strategy does not require the use of block copolymers. In contrast, most methods reporting the formation of hybrid nanocapsules incorporate nanoparticles into block‐copolymer polymersomes or use nanoparticles tethered with block‐copolymers. The nanocapsules were characterized using a full set of techniques including nanoparticle tracking analysis, electron microscopy and liquid phase atomic force microscopy. Our results show that the vesicular shape of the nanocapsules is templated by the liquid droplets. Nanocapsules were prepared from quantum dots, gold nanoparticles, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and mixtures of particles. The entrapment of a fluorescent dye was also demonstrated. Thus, nanocapsules with dual properties (e.g., magnetic and fluorescent) are easily obtained. Interestingly, the magnetic nanocapsules enable magnetic resonance imaging contrast enhancement of tumors in vivo.
Comparative Protein Structure Modeling Using MODELLER
Authors: Webb Benjamin , Sali Andrej
Published: June 2016

Comparative protein structure modeling predicts the three‐dimensional structure of a given protein sequence (target) based primarily on its alignment to one or more proteins of known structure (templates). The prediction process consists of fold assignment, target‐template alignment, model building, and model evaluation. This unit describes how to calculate comparative models using the program MODELLER and how to use the ModBase database of such models, and discusses all four steps of comparative modeling, frequently observed errors, and some applications. Modeling lactate dehydrogenase from Trichomonas vaginalis (TvLDH) is described as an example. The download and installation of the MODELLER software is also described. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The GeneCards Suite: From Gene Data Mining to Disease Genome Sequence Analyses
Authors: Stelzer Gil , Rosen Naomi , Plaschkes Inbar , Zimmerman Shahar , Twik Michal , Fishilevich Simon , Stein Tsippi Iny , Nudel Ron , Lieder Iris , Mazor Yaron , Kaplan Sergey , Dahary Dvir , Warshawsky David , Guan‐Golan Yaron , Kohn Asher , Rappaport Noa , Safran Marilyn , Lancet Doron
Published: June 2016

GeneCards, the human gene compendium, enables researchers to effectively navigate and inter‐relate the wide universe of human genes, diseases, variants, proteins, cells, and biological pathways. Our recently launched Version 4 has a revamped infrastructure facilitating faster data updates, better‐targeted data queries, and friendlier user experience. It also provides a stronger foundation for the GeneCards suite of companion databases and analysis tools. Improved data unification includes gene‐disease links via MalaCards and merged biological pathways via PathCards, as well as drug information and proteome expression. VarElect, another suite member, is a phenotype prioritizer for next‐generation sequencing, leveraging the GeneCards and MalaCards knowledgebase. It automatically infers direct and indirect scored associations between hundreds or even thousands of variant‐containing genes and disease phenotype terms. VarElect's capabilities, either independently or within TGex, our comprehensive variant analysis pipeline, help prepare for the challenge of clinical projects that involve thousands of exome/genome NGS analyses. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Gastric mucormycosis: Diagnosis by imprint cytology
Authors: Tathe Shilpa P. , Dani Aarti A. , Chawhan Sanjay M. , Meshram Saroj A. , Randale Archana A. , Raut Waman K.
Published: June 2016

The fungi in the order of Mucorales commonly target diabetics and other immunocompromised hosts, producing fatal respiratory and or CNS infections. Gastrointestinal mucormycosis is uncommon and seldom diagnosed in living patients due to nonspecific clinical manifestations. We report a case of gastric mucormycosis in an immmunocompetent male patient, diagnosed by imprint cytology—a rare site and a rare setting. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second report of gastric mucormycosis being diagnosed on cytology. As the disease is rapidly progressive and often fatal, early diagnosis is critical to the patient survival. Imprint cytology or brush cytology is extremely useful for the rapid diagnosis of gastric mucormycosis as these organisms are morphologically distinct. Familiarity with the cytomorphology of these organisms assists in the correct diagnosis of this disease. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:820–822. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Position Sensorless Vector Control Method for IPMSM Drives Based on Vector Trajectory of Current Estimation Error
Authors: KIKUCHI TOSHIE , MATSUMOTO YASUSHI , CHIBA AKIRA
Published: June 2016

Interior permanent magnet synchronous motors (IPMSMs) position sensorless drives have been widely used in recent years. These drives should be able to handle low‐speed operation. Control methods of IPMSM based on current observers generally assume that the position error is sufficiently small. In this paper, the authors have proposed a new position estimation method based on vector trajectory of the current estimation error. This position estimation method consists of two parts. First, the sign of the position error is estimated based on the outer product of the current estimation error and the reference vector. Next, the amplitude of the position error is calculated from the intersection of two circles determined by motor parameters and the current estimation error. The proposed position sensorless method is implemented on a DSP controller, and the effectiveness of the proposed control method is confirmed experimentally.
A Study on the Power System Security under Future Uncertainties
Authors: OKUMOTO YOSHIHARU , YORINO NAOTO , SASAKI YUTAKA , ZOKA YOSHIFUMI , AKIYOSHI TOMIHISA , ISOYA TOMOHIRO
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we propose three applications to quantitatively evaluate N‐1 security with increased uncertainties. By using a robust dynamic security region (RDS), which is based on the concept of robust power system security (RS), the key region for judging the security and a new evaluation index for quantitative analysis, we can evaluate power system security as follows. (1) The calculation of the RDS at the time of yearly peak load demand can be recognized as the benchmark for the N‐1 security at present, and this method can be applied to the future power system with increased renewable energy resources (RES) such as PV. (2) We show the yearly declining trend for N‐1 security resulting from increased PV deployment year by year. (3) We calculate the necessary amount of additional power supply capacity, including conventional electric power generators or storage batteries, needed for maintaining the N‐1 security at the present level. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through simulations using a model system with three machines.
Experimental Verification of a Front‐to‐Front (FTF) System Consisting of Two Modular Multilevel Cascade Converters Based on Double‐Star Chopper Cells
Authors: OGUMA KOTA , SASONGKO FIRMAN , HAGIWARA MAKOTO , AKAGI HIROFUMI
Published: June 2016

This paper presents an experimental discussion on modular multilevel cascade converters based on double‐star chopper cells (MMCC‐DSCC). Hereinafter, a single MMCC‐DSCC is referred to simply as a “DSCC”. A couple of DSCCs are used to form a front‐to‐front (FTF) system capable of dc voltage matching and galvanic isolation between two dc grids. The FTF system can be considered as a dc–ac–dc power conversion system including an ac‐link high‐power transformer. The higher the ac‐link frequency, the smaller and lighter are the ac‐link transformer and dc capacitors. When the so‐called “phase‐shifted‐carrier PWM” is applied to the DSCC, theoretical analysis and computer simulation have confirmed that a ratio of the carrier frequency with respect to the ac‐link frequency can be reduced to 5/2. This paper designs, constructs, and tests a 400‐Vdc 10‐kW downscaled FTF system with a carrier frequency of 450 Hz and an ac‐link frequency of 180 Hz, where their ratio is 5/2. Experimental waveforms obtained from the downscaled system are compared with simulated ones obtained from a software package, PSCAD/EMTDC, under the same operating and circuit conditions. They agree well each other not only under steady states but also under transient states.
SO2 Activation by the Bis(guanidinato)silylene [iPrNC(NiPr2)NiPr]2Si: Formation of Neutral Six‐Coordinate Silicon(IV) Complexes with a Chelating Sulfito or Dithionito Ligand
Authors: Mück Felix M. , Baus Johannes A. , Bertermann Rüdiger , Tacke Reinhold
Published: June 2016

Activation of SO2 by the donor‐stabilized bis(guanidinato)silylene [iPrNC(NiPr2)NiPr]2Si (7) leads to the six‐coordinate sulfitosilicon(IV) complex 12 (obtained by treatment of 7 with 1.5 molar equivalents of SO2 in n‐hexane) or the six‐coordinate dithionitosilicon(IV) complex 13 (a co‐crystallizate of cis‐13 and trans‐13; obtained by treatment of 7 with a vast excess of liquid SO2). Compounds 12 and 13 were characterized by elemental analyses, crystal structure analyses, and multinuclear NMR spectroscopic studies in the solid state and in solution. The six‐coordinate silicon(IV) complexes 12, cis‐13, and trans‐13 represent very rare examples of main‐group element compounds with an O,O‐chelating sulfito or dithionito ligand.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Ordered Mesoporous NiSiAl Oxides for Catalyzing CO2 Reforming of CH4
Authors: Xiang Xianmei , Zhao Huahua , Yang Jian , Zhao Jun , Yan Liang , Song Huanling , Chou Lingjun
Published: June 2016

Ordered mesoporous NiSiAl composite oxides with an amorphous phase were prepared by an improved evaporation‐induced self‐assembly strategy. The silica was distributed homogeneously in the mesoporous skeleton and improved the ordered mesoporous structure of NiAl. Catalytic tests toward the CO2 reforming of CH4 indicated that the NiSiAl exhibited higher catalytic activity and stability over 100 h at 700 °C than NiAl. The enhanced performance results from the high thermal stability induced by Si doping, which hinders the Al2O3 phase transformation from amorphous to γ‐Al2O3; therefore, the uniform dispersion of the Ni nanoparticles is retained owing to the confinement effect of the ordered mesopores. The stabilized Ni nanoparticles reinforced the resistance of the catalyst to carbon deposition and, thus, boosted its durability. Notably, even under more stringent conditions (750 °C, 200 h), NiSiAl‐0.10 retained its amorphous Al2O3 structure and showed outstanding durability, almost without any deactivation.
Organocatalytic Stereoselective Addition of Aldehydes to Acylquinolinium Ions
Authors: Mengozzi Luca , Gualandi Andrea , Cozzi Pier Giorgio
Published: June 2016

A direct and simple activation of quinolines, without isolating unstable intermediates, or using isolated N,O‐acetals in the presence of Lewis or Brønsted acids, is described. The procedure is quite straightforward and allows the addition in a stereoselective manner of different aldehydes to various differently substituted quinolines. The desired products were obtained in 28–76 % yields, with dr values up to 83:17 in favor of the syn isomer, and up to 99 % ee. Studies towards the use of acetaldehyde were also performed with different catalysts and the addition was promoted affording the desired product in 62 % yield with 46 % ee. Finally, deprotection and chemical transformations of the enantioenriched adducts were performed.
Activation and Identification of NC‐1: A Cryptic Cyclodepsipeptide from Red Soil‐Derived Streptomyces sp. FXJ1.172
Authors: Liu Minghao , Liu Ning , Shang Fei , Huang Ying
Published: June 2016

Genome sequence analysis of a lasalocid‐producing strain, Streptomyces sp. FXJ1.172, which was isolated from red soil, indicated its great untapped biosynthetic potential for novel secondary metabolites. A lasalocid‐null mutant Streptomyces sp. FXJ1.172ΔlodS, was then constructed to make way for the cryptic biosynthetic pathways. Consequently, a novel cyclodepsipeptide, named NC‐1, was activated and isolated from the lasalocid abolished mutant strain cultivated in glucose‐yeast extract‐malt extract (GYM) medium supplemented with ferric ion. The planar‐ and stereo‐structures of NC‐1 were elucidated based on detailed analyses of MS, NMR, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data, revealing it as the first reported cyclodepsipeptide that is epoxidized at adjacent carbon atoms of the cinnamoyl fatty acid side chain. In assays of antimicrobial activity, NC‐1 exhibited moderate inhibition effects against Mycobacterium bovis bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG).
Ligand Control in Selective C–H Oxidative Functionalization Using Pd‐PEPPSI‐Type Complexes
Authors: Bolbat Ekaterina , Wendt Ola F.
Published: June 2016

To achieve high selectivity in directed C–H activation, an NHC ligand was introduced to a palladium catalyst. A range of Pd‐PEPPSI complexes were applied in the direct acetoxylation of 2‐phenylpyridine. The best catalyst was found to be the one based on a diisopropylphenyl‐substituted NHC ligand, and this was successfully used for the functionalization of sp2 as well as more challenging sp3 bonds for a broad variety of substrates. The explored method showed a highly improved selectivity compared to previously reported results with up to 96 % yield for the monoacetoxylated product. Kinetic studies show that sterics of the catalyst is less important in dictating conversion and selectivity; despite an induction period, it was shown that the catalyst is molecular in nature.
Highly Efficient and Practical Thiocyanation of Imidazopyridines Using an N‐Chlorosuccinimide/NaSCN Combination
Authors: Zhang Hailei , Wei Qian , Wei Shiqiang , Qu Jingping , Wang Baomin
Published: June 2016

A direct C–H thiocyanation of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines, and a practical sequential one‐pot condensation/C–H thiocyanation process, using a combination of N‐chlorosuccinimide/NaSCN for the synthesis of 3‐thiocyanatoimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines have been developed. The reactions are environmentally friendly, and easy to carry out. They use readily available starting materials and mild reaction conditions, show a wide functional group tolerance, and give good to excellent yields.
Copper(I)‐Promoted Synthesis of Highly Substituted and Functionalized Tetrahydrothiophenes
Authors: Ram Ram N. , Gupta Dharmendra Kumar , Soni Vineet Kumar
Published: June 2016

Copper(I)‐promoted 5‐exo halogen‐atom‐transfer radical cyclization of 2,2,2‐trihaloethylallyl sulfides gave highly functionalized tetrahydrothiophenes in good to high yields. Stereochemical aspects of the diastereomeric mixtures of products formed under different reaction conditions were evaluated, and single‐crystal diffraction analysis and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis were carried out. The synthetic application of α‐acetoxy tetrahydrothiophenes in the preparation of a dihydrothiophene has also been demonstrated.
B(C6F5)3‐Catalyzed Reduction of Aromatic and Aliphatic Nitro Groups with Hydrosilanes
Authors: Porwal Digvijay , Oestreich Martin
Published: June 2016

A transition‐metal‐free method for the hydrosilane reduction of aromatic and aliphatic nitro compounds to the corresponding amines is reported. Et3SiH is found to be the optimal reductant in this B(C6F5)3‐catalyzed deoxygenation. The functional‐group tolerance is, however, moderate.
Palladium‐Catalyzed C–S Bond Formation of Stable Enamines with Arene/Alkanethiols: Highly Regioselective Synthesis of β‐Amino Sulfides
Authors: Jiang Yaojia , Liang Gaohui , Zhang Cong , Loh Teck‐Peng
Published: June 2016

A direct and regiocontrolled thiolation method to access β‐amino sulfides through the palladium‐catalyzed C(sp2)–H functionalization of stable enamines was described. The reaction was realized under mild conditions by adding an external phosphine ligand to prevent poisoning of the palladium catalyst by the sulfuric reagents. A possible mechanism was proposed according to the obtained results. The DFT calculation results were consistent with the experiment data, which gave the E isomers of the β‐amino sulfides. The reaction was also performed on a gram scale and shows potential application in organic synthesis.
Electrochemically Triggered DNA Release from a Mixed‐brush Polymer‐modified Electrode
Authors: Masi Madeline , Gamella Maria , Guz Nataliia , Katz Evgeny
Published: June 2016

Single‐stranded DNA molecules were loaded on the mixed poly(N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA)/poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) brush covalently attached to an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode on a flexible support. The DNA deposition was performed at pH 5.0 when the polymer brush is positively charged due to protonation of tertiary amino groups in PDMAEMA, thus resulting in electrostatic attraction of the negatively charged DNA. By applying electrolysis at −1.0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl reference) electrochemical oxygen reduction resulted in the consumption of hydrogen ions and local pH increase in the vicinity of the electrode surface. The process resulted in the transition to negative charge of the mixed polymer‐brush due to dissociation of carboxylic groups of PMAA. This resulted in the electrostatic repulsion and release of the loaded DNA. The developed approach allows cyclic load‐release of the DNA with the significantly increased amount of the released DNA comparing with previously reported systems. Further options for the improvements of the system are discussed.
Rock slope failure in a recently deglaciated permafrost rock wall at Piz Kesch (Eastern Swiss Alps), February 2014
Authors: Phillips Marcia , Wolter Andrea , Lüthi Rachel , Amann Florian , Kenner Robert , Bühler Yves
Published: June 2016

In February 2014, a rock pillar with a volume of around 150 000  m3 collapsed at Piz Kesch in the Eastern Swiss Alps. A reconstruction of the conditions prior to the event and of the event itself is presented on the basis of different sources of data. The methods applied include photogrammetry, terrestrial laser scanning, structural geological analysis, examination of meteorological data, carbon‐14 (14C) dating of organic material in permafrost ice from a tension crack and numerical modelling of likely modes of failure. Despite a complete lack of in situ measurements in the rock wall prior to the event and of direct observations during the event, the available data allow the determination of the approximate timing of the event as well as the structural predisposition, the probable mode of failure and the timescale of several millennia involved in the triggering of the failure of the rock pillar. The interdisciplinary analysis of this event contributes towards understanding the complex interaction of processes involved in large rock slope failures currently occurring in warming mountain permafrost regions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supremes Affirm Supremacy Clause but Point Out Alternatives for States
Authors: Sabino Anthony Michael
Published: June 2016

Participants in the energy sector know full well that they have been very much in the public spotlight these days, what with the price of oil, calls for renewable energy, and so forth. But the energy sector should also know that no less an authority than the US Supreme Court has recently been paying a great deal of attention to the business of energy, particularly as to who may regulate it.
Importance of Selecting a Quality Demolition Contractor
Authors: Dowdell Chris
Published: June 2016

With the Environmental Protection Agency's recent passing of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standard and the decreasing price of natural gas, coal‐fired power plants in America are being forced to shut down at an alarming rate.
What Are EPA's Rules Really Worth?
Authors: McGuffey Carroll W. “Mack”
Published: June 2016

In recent years, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a slew of new rules intended to improve air quality and address climate change, many of which target the energy sector. The EPA has evaluated the costs and benefits of most of these rules—often to help justify its actions, sometimes to comply with the requirements of the Clean Air Act, and always to satisfy an executive order that requires a cost‐benefit analysis in the name of good government.
In‐situ‐Bestimmung von effektiven Scherparametern in rutschgefährdeten Schichten im Oberen Buntsandstein
Authors: Ernst Christian , Hecht Thomas , Witt Karl Josef
Published: June 2016

Zur Bemessung einer Einschnittsböschung in rutschgefährdeten Schichten des Oberen Buntsandsteins (Röt) im Grenzbereich zum überlagernden Unteren Muschelkalk wurden Labor‐ und Feldversuche zur Bestimmung der Scherfestigkeit in den kritischen Schichthorizonten durchgeführt. Die direkten Scherversuche im Feld bilden den typischen Grenzzustand des Gleitens auf prädestinierten Verwitterungshorizonten weit besser ab, als dreiaxiale Druckversuche an ungestörten Proben des geschichteten Gebirges. Die mit beiden Versuchsarten ermittelten Scherfestigkeiten sind als Grundlage für eine Langzeitbemessung abzumindern, da durch die Entlastung beim Auffahren des Einschnitts und durch den fortschreitenden Verwitterungsprozess der dominante Anteil der Kohäsion an der Scherfestigkeit stark abfällt. Der Beitrag beschreibt die spezifischen geologischen Standortbedingungen sowie die Durchführung und Auswertung sowohl der In‐situ‐Scherversuche als auch der Triaxialversuche. Im Ergebnis werden angemessene Werte der Langzeitscherfestigkeit abgeleitet.

In situ‐determination of the effective shear strength of landslide‐prone layers of the Upper Red Sandstone. The paper describes how the common limit state design of a rock slope can be reliable improved when the necessary strength parameter values are determined by field tests. For the design of a down cutting in slide prone layers of red sandstone in the transitional zone of the overlying shell limestone, laboratory and field tests were implemented in order to determine the shear strength within the critical range. The typical limit state for sliding on predestinated weathered layers deliver far better results with direct in situ shear tests, than with triaxial test on undisturbed samples of rock. The basis for a long term design are the shear strength determined with both test types, which has to be reduced, as the amount of the cohesion as part of the resistance might be reduced due to the reload during excavation and the progressive weathering process. The specific geological site conditions as well as the implementation and evaluation of the in situ shear tests and the triaxial tests are presented in the paper. As a result, appropriate values for the long term shear strength are proposed.
Graph Sharing Game and the Structure of Weighted Graphs with a Forbidden Subdivision
Authors: Gągol Adam , Micek Piotr , Walczak Bartosz
Published: June 2016

In the graph sharing game, two players share a connected graph G with nonnegative weights assigned to the vertices claiming and collecting the vertices of G one by one, while keeping the set of all claimed vertices connected through the whole game. Each player wants to maximize the total weight of the vertices they have gathered by the end of the game, when the whole G has been claimed. It is proved that for any class of graphs with an odd number of vertices and with forbidden subdivision of a fixed graph (e.g., for the class of planar graphs with an odd number of vertices), there is a constant such that the first player can secure at least the proportion of the total weight of G whenever . Known examples show that such a constant does no longer exist if any of the two conditions on the class (an odd number of vertices or a forbidden subdivision) is removed. The main ingredient in the proof is a new structural result on weighted graphs with a forbidden subdivision.
Nowhere‐Zero 5‐Flows On Cubic Graphs with Oddness 4
Authors: Mazzuoccolo Giuseppe , Steffen Eckhard
Published: June 2016

Tutte's 5‐flow conjecture from 1954 states that every bridgeless graph has a nowhere‐zero 5‐flow. It suffices to prove the conjecture for cyclically 6‐edge‐connected cubic graphs. We prove that every cyclically 6‐edge‐connected cubic graph with oddness at most 4 has a nowhere‐zero 5‐flow. This implies that every minimum counterexample to the 5‐flow conjecture has oddness at least 6.
Microwave‐Promoted Pd‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Dibenzofurans from Ortho‐Arylphenols
Authors: Schmidt Bernd , Riemer Martin
Published: June 2016

ortho‐Aryl phenols, synthesized via protecting group free Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of ortho‐halophenols and arene boronic acids, undergo a cyclization to dibenzofurans via oxidative C–H activation. The reaction proceeds under microwave irradiation in short reaction times using catalytic amounts of Pd(OAc)2 without additional ligands.
One‐pot Synthesis, Crystal structure, and Bioactivity of N‐Phenoxyacetyl‐2,4,5‐trisubstituted‐1,3‐oxazolidines
Authors: Fu Ying , Chen Wen‐Geng , Hou Yu‐Wen , Wang Bin , Zhao Li‐Xia , Ye Fei
Published: June 2016

N‐phenoxyacetyl‐1,3‐oxazolidine derivatives were synthesized by the cyclization and acylation with β‐amino alcohol, ketone, and phenoxyacetyl chloride as the starting materials. All compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI‐MS, and elemental analysis. The configuration of 4a was determined by X‐ray crystallography. The preliminary biological tests showed that all products could protect soybean against injury caused by 2,4‐D butylate to some extent.
Modulation of influenza A virus replication by microRNA‐9 through targeting MCPIP1
Authors: Dong Chunyan , Sun Xiaoning , Guan Zhenhong , Zhang Maolin , Duan Ming
Published: June 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a family of small non‐coding RNAs controlling translation and transcription of its target genes, play important roles in the regulation of various biological processes, including viral infection. Influenza A viruses (IAV) infection alters expression of cellular miRNAs, which in turn can modify the cellular environment to facilitate efficient virus replication. In this study, we showed that IAV infection significantly induced miR‐9 expression in A549 cells, which occurred earlier than drastic expression of viral matrix (M) and nucleoprotein (NP) genes. Overexpression of miR‐9 enhanced viral gene expression and production of infectious progeny, while knockdown of miR‐9 significantly inhibited IAV replication in A549 cells. Recent studies have revealed antiviral potential of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1‐induced protein 1 (MCPIP1), a PIN‐like RNase capable of targeting and degrading viral RNA. Subsequently, we comprehensively confirmed that MCPIP1 functionally inhibited viral M and NP genes expression and progeny production, and also was regulated by miR‐9 in A549 cells. Furthermore, MCPIP1 overexpression abrogated miR‐9‐induced IAV replication. Taken together, our findings indicate a new role of miR‐9 induction in IAV infection and suggest IAV may hijack cellular miR‐9 to benefit the viral life cycle. J. Med. Virol. 89:41–48, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Behavioral analysis of the huntingtin‐associated protein 1 ortholog trak‐1 in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Norflus Fran , Bu Jingnan , Guyton Evon , Gutekunst Claire‐Anne
Published: June 2016

The precise role of huntingtin‐associated protein 1 (HAP1) is not known, but studies have shown that it is important for early development and survival. A Caenorhabditis elegans ortholog of HAP1, T27A3.1 (also called trak‐1), has been found and is expressed in a subset of neurons. Potential behavioral functions of three knockout lines of T27A3.1 were examined. From its suspected role in mice we hypothesize that T27A3.1 might be involved in egg hatching and early growth, mechanosensation, chemosensation, sensitivity to osmolarity, and synaptic transmission. Our studies show that the knockout worms are significantly different from the wild‐type (WT) worms only in the synaptic transmission test, which was measured by adding aldicarb, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. The change in function was determined by measuring the number of worms paralyzed. However, when the T27A3.1 worms were tested for egg hatching and early growth, mechanosensation, chemosensation, and sensitivity to osmolarity, there were no significant differences between the knockout and WT worms. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amyloid‐β induces sleep fragmentation that is rescued by fatty acid binding proteins in Drosophila
Authors: Gerstner Jason R. , Lenz Olivia , Vanderheyden William M. , Chan May T. , Pfeiffenberger Cory , Pack Allan I.
Published: June 2016

Disruption of sleep/wake activity in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients significantly affects their quality of life and that of their caretakers and is a major contributing factor for institutionalization. Levels of amyloid‐β (Aβ) have been shown to be regulated by neuronal activity and to correlate with the sleep/wake cycle. Whether consolidated sleep can be disrupted by Aβ alone is not well understood. We hypothesize that Aβ42 can increase wakefulness and disrupt consolidated sleep. Here we report that flies expressing the human Aβ42 transgene in neurons have significantly reduced consolidated sleep compared with control flies. Fatty acid binding proteins (Fabp) are small hydrophobic ligand carriers that have been clinically implicated in AD. Aβ42 flies that carry a transgene of either the Drosophila Fabp or the mammalian brain‐type Fabp show a significant increase in nighttime sleep and long consolidated sleep bouts, rescuing the Aβ42‐induced sleep disruption. These studies suggest that alterations in Fabp levels and/or activity may be associated with sleep disturbances in AD. Future work to determine the molecular mechanisms that contribute to Fabp‐mediated rescue of Aβ42‐induced sleep loss will be important for the development of therapeutics in the treatment of AD. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Model‐based analysis of a dielectrophoretic microfluidic device for field‐flow fractionation
Authors: Mathew Bobby , Alazzam Anas , Abutayeh Mohammad , Stiharu Ion
Published: June 2016

We present the development of a dynamic model for predicting the trajectory of microparticles in microfluidic devices, employing dielectrophoresis, for Hyperlayer field‐flow fractionation. The electrode configuration is such that multiple finite‐sized electrodes are located on the top and bottom walls of the microchannel; the electrodes on the walls are aligned with each other. The electric potential inside the microchannel is described using the Laplace equation while the microparticles' trajectory is described using equations based on Newton's second law. All equations are solved using finite difference method. The equations of motion account for forces including inertia, buoyancy, drag, gravity, virtual mass, and dielectrophoresis. The model is used for parametric study; the geometric parameters analyzed include microparticle radius, microchannel depth, and electrode/spacing lengths while volumetric flow rate and actuation voltage are the two operating parameters considered in the study. The trajectory of microparticles is composed of transient and steady state phases; the trajectory is influenced by all parameters. Microparticle radius and volumetric flow rate, above the threshold, do not influence the steady state levitation height; microparticle levitation is not possible below the threshold of the volumetric flow rate. Microchannel depth, electrode/spacing lengths, and actuation voltage influence the steady‐state levitation height.
Europium(III) Catalysis for Reduction of Thionine Dye by Selenous Acid in Aqueous Sulfuric Acid Solutions: A Kinetic and Mechanistic Approach
Authors: Fawzy Ahmed
Published: June 2016

The catalytic effect of europium(III) on the reduction of thionine dye (Th) by selenous acid has been studied by spectrophotometry in aqueous sulfuric acid solutions at a constant ionic strength of 3.0 mol dm−3 and at different temperatures (283–313 K). A first‐order dependence with respect to both [Th] and [EuIII] was obtained, whereas the orders with respect to [SeIV] and [H+] were less than unity. Variation of ionic strength and dielectric constant of the reaction media did not affect the reaction rates. Probable mechanistic schemes for thionine reductions in both the absence and presence of europium(III) catalyst were proposed. The rate laws associated with the reaction mechanisms were derived, and the reaction constants were calculated. The activation parameters of the rate constants of the slow steps of both uncatalyzed and catalyzed reactions along with thermodynamic quantities of the equilibrium constants are computed and discussed.