bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Lightning and Precipitation Prediction of Severe Convection Using Lightning Data Assimilation With NCAR WRF‐RTFDDA
Authors: Wang Haoliang , Liu Yubao , Cheng William Y. Y. , Zhao Tianliang , Xu Mei , Liu Yuewei , Shen Si , Calhoun Kristin M. , Fierro Alexandre O.
Published: October 2017

In this study, a lightning data assimilation (LDA) scheme was developed and implemented in the National Center for Atmospheric Research Weather Research and Forecasting‐Real‐Time Four‐Dimensional Data Assimilation system. In this LDA method, graupel mixing ratio (qg) is retrieved from observed total lightning. To retrieve qg on model grid boxes, column‐integrated graupel mass is first calculated using an observation‐based linear formula between graupel mass and total lightning rate. Then the graupel mass is distributed vertically according to the empirical qg vertical profiles constructed from model simulations. Finally, a horizontal spread method is utilized to consider the existence of graupel in the adjacent regions of the lightning initiation locations. Based on the retrieved qg fields, latent heat is adjusted to account for the latent heat releases associated with the formation of the retrieved graupel and to promote convection at the observed lightning locations, which is conceptually similar to the method developed by Fierro et al. Three severe convection cases were studied to evaluate the LDA scheme for short‐term (0–6 h) lightning and precipitation forecasts. The simulation results demonstrated that the LDA was effective in improving the short‐term lightning and precipitation forecasts by improving the model simulation of the qg fields, updrafts, cold pool, and front locations. The improvements were most notable in the first 2 h, indicating a highly desired benefit of the LDA in lightning and convective precipitation nowcasting (0–2 h) applications.
Lateral hypothalamic activity indicates hunger and satiety states in humans
Authors: Talakoub Omid , Paiva Raquel R. , Milosevic Matija , Hoexter Marcelo Q. , Franco Ruth , Alho Eduardo , Navarro Jessie , Pereira José F. , Popovic Milos R. , Savage Cary , Lopes Antonio C. , Alvarenga Pedro , Damiani Durval , Teixeira Manoel J. , Miguel Euripides C. , Fonoff Erich T. , Batistuzzo Marcelo C. , Hamani Clement
Published: October 2017

Lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) local field potentials (LFPs) were recorded in a Prader–Willi patient undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) for obesity. During hunger, exposure to food‐related cues induced an increase in beta/low‐gamma activity. In contrast, recordings during satiety were marked by prominent alpha rhythms. Based on these findings, we have delivered alpha‐frequency DBS prior to and during food intake. Despite reporting an early sensation of fullness, the patient continued to crave food. This suggests that the pattern of activity in LHA may indicate hunger/satiety states in humans but attest to the complexity of conducting neuromodulation studies in obesity.
Synthesis of Diverse Nitrogen Heterocycles via Palladium‐Catalyzed Tandem Azide–Isocyanide Cross‐Coupling/Cyclization: Mechanistic Insight using Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Ansari Arshad J. , Pathare Ramdas S. , Maurya Antim K. , Agnihotri Vijai K. , Khan Shahnawaz , Roy Tapta Kanchan , Sawant Devesh M. , Pardasani Ram T.
Published: October 2017

A rapid and elegant tandem azide–isocyanide cross‐coupling/cyclization protocol has been developed based on a nitrene transfer reaction. The palladium‐catalyzed ligand‐free methodology led to the synthesis of three different heterocyclic scaffolds with excellent atom/step/redox economy. Studies based on first‐principles‐based quantum calculations and control experiments unraveled a concerted process of nitrene transfer reaction on isocyanides, ruling out the metallaaziridine intermediate reported earlier. This finding could pave the way for novel applications of nitrene transfer reactions to generate bioactive heterocycles.

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Asymmetric 1,6‐Conjugate Addition of para‐Quinone Methides for the Synthesis of Chiral β,β‐Diaryl‐α‐Hydroxy Ketones
Authors: Gao Yuan‐Yuan , Hua Yuan‐Zhao , Wang Min‐Can
Published: October 2017

A direct asymmetric 1,6‐conjugated addition of α‐hydroxy ketone to para‐quinone methides has been developed. It is an efficient approach to the synthesis of chiral β,β‐diaryl‐α‐hydroxy ketones. The reaction runs smoothly in the presence of ZnEt2 and nonracemic bis(diarylhydroxymethylpyrrolidinylmethyl)phenols (ProPhenols), and the desired products are obtained in good yields (up to 88%) and with high stereoselectivity (up to >99% ee and up to >99:1 dr). This reaction also can be run on a gram scale without impacting its enantioselectivity.

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Iodine‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Chalcogenophenes by the Reaction of 1,3‐Dienyl Bromides and Potassium Selenocyanate/Potassium Sulfide (KSeCN/K2S)
Authors: Maity Pintu , Ranu Brindaban C.
Published: October 2017

The methods available for the synthesis of chalcogenophenes, in general, are associated with drawbacks of harsh conditions, use of costly metals, broad applicability, tedious purification process and low yield. To avoid these drawbacks a transition metal‐free iodine‐catalyzed reaction of aryl‐susbstituted 1,3‐dienyl bromides with potassium selenocyanate/potassium sulfide (KSeCN/K2S) leading to the corresponding selenophenes and thiophenes has been developed. Iodine is relatively benign, less expensive and readily available. Several diversely substituted selenophenes and thiophenes have been obtained by this procedure in high yields. Using this procedure 2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)thiophene, a key intermediate for the synthesis of a melanin concentrating hormone receptor ligand involved in the treatment of eating disorders, weight gain, obesity, depression and anxiety has been synthesized. Although the reaction is one‐pot essentially it proceeds in two steps involving a selenocyanate/thiolate intermediate leading to the selenophene/thiophene. The simple operation, use of inexpensive reagents and a metal‐free process make this procedure more attractive for an easy access to substituted selenophenes and thiophenes.

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Ester Synthesis in Water: Mycobacterium smegmatis Acyl Transferase for Kinetic Resolutions
Authors: de Leeuw Nicolas , Torrelo Guzman , Bisterfeld Carolin , Resch Verena , Mestrom Luuk , Straulino Emanuele , van der Weel Laura , Hanefeld Ulf
Published: October 2017

The acyl transferase from Mycobacterium smegmatis (MsAcT) catalyses transesterification reactions in aqueous media because of its hydrophobic active site. Aliphatic cyanohydrin and alkyne esters can be synthesised in water with excellent and strikingly opposite enantioselectivity [(R);E>37 and (S);E>100, respectively]. When using this enzyme, the undesired hydrolysis of the acyl donor is an important factor to take into account. Finally, the choice of acyl donor can significantly influence the obtained enantiomeric excesses.

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3D‐foam‐structured nitrogen‐doped graphene‐Ni catalyst for highly efficient nitrobenzene reduction
Authors: Wang Zhiyong , Pu Yuan , Wang Dan , Shi Jie , Wang Jie‐Xin , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: October 2017

We report the preparation of a porous 3D‐foam‐structured nitrogen‐doped graphene‐Ni (NG/NF) catalyst and the evaluation of its performance in the reduction of nitrobenzene (NB) through detailed studies of the kinetics. The NG/NF catalyst showed a significantly higher reaction rate than pure Ni foam (NF). Moreover, the separation of the 3D‐foam‐structured catalyst from the products was more convenient than that of NG powdered catalysts. The obtained kinetics data fit well to the Langmuir‐Hinshelwood model, with an error ratio below 10%. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicated that the adsorption of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) on the NG/NF surface was stronger than that of NB, which strongly agreed with the kinetic parameters determined from the Langmuir‐Hinshelwood model. The excellent catalytic efficiency of the 3D‐foam‐structured catalyst combined with the knowledge of the kinetics data make this catalyst promising for application in larger scale nitrobenzene reduction. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 1330–1338, 2018
Coin pica‐induced gastric perforation resulting from ingestion of 1,894 coins, 8 kg in total: case report and review of published works
Authors: Sekiya Kosuke , Mori Shusuke , Otomo Yasuhiro
Published: October 2017

Case

Pica is common among patients with psychiatric disorders, but only a few cases regarding coin pica have been reported. A 51‐year‐old man with depression complaining of fatigue was found to have numerous coins in the esophagus and the stomach on X‐rays. He had a peritoneal sign and underwent an emergency laparotomy.

Outcome

The surgical findings showed perforation on the anterior wall of the gastric body and coins in the stomach, which were removed manually, followed by an omental patch. Residual coins in the esophagus were removed by endoscopy. The coins totaled 1,894, weighing 8,076 grams. The patient was then diagnosed as schizophrenic. He was asymptomatic for metal toxicity and was finally transferred to a psychiatric hospital.

Conclusion

This pica case is the first to show coin pica can lead to gastric perforation, and also reports the largest amounts of coins ingested by a person to date.
Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of γ‐Amino Acids Featuring Quaternary Stereocenters
Authors: Gómez José Enrique , Guo Wusheng , Gaspa Silvia , Kleij Arjan W.
Published: October 2017

The first general asymmetric synthesis of γ,γ‐disubstituted γ‐amino acids by copper‐catalyzed ring opening of nonstrained lactones with amines is reported. This approach features ample scope, operational simplicity, and wide functional‐group diversity. The catalytic process allows access to a series of highly functionalized enantioenriched γ‐amino acids featuring quaternary stereocenters with excellent enantiomeric ratios of up to 98:2 and excellent yields of up to 98 %.
New alginate foams: Box‐Behnken design of their manufacturing; fire retardant and thermal insulating properties
Authors: Vincent Thierry , Dumazert Loïc , Dufourg Ludivine , Cucherat Claire , Sonnier Rodolphe , Guibal Eric
Published: October 2017

A new method for preparing alginate foams with progressive release of copper in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS, foaming agent) has been designed. Copper acts as the ionotropic gelling agent through the reaction of copper carbonate with gluconolactone. The process does not require freeze‐drying contrarily to the conventional method used for preparing macroporous alginate foams. The new materials investigated in this study have remarkable thermal properties, including thermal conductivity lower than 0.041 W m−1 K−1 and low heat release (below 2 kJ g−1), which allows labeling these foams self‐extinguishing materials. An experimental design methodology, based on a Box‐Behnken plan with three parameters and three levels, is successfully used for evaluating the impact of the amounts of alginate, SLS, and copper carbonate on the productivity, apparent density, and shrinking at air‐drying. It yielded an optimization of the process for the manufacturing of light, and stable/rigid insulating and thermally stable materials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45868.
The possible clinical impact of risperidone on P‐glycoprotein‐mediated transport of tacrolimus: A case report and in vitro study
Authors: Watanabe Nao , Higashi Hiroki , Nakamura Saki , Nomura Keiko , Adachi Yuichi , Taguchi Masato
Published: October 2017

The authors encountered the case of an 8‐fold increase in the concentration/dose (C/D) ratio of tacrolimus (TAC) following the coadministration of voriconazole (VRCZ) in a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipient. The interaction observed was much greater than expected and the patient had also been treated with oral risperidone (RSP). It was hypothesized that cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A inhibition of the small intestine by voriconazole and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) inhibition of the small intestine by risperidone exerted a synergistic effect on the bioavailability of tacrolimus. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of risperidone on the P‐gp‐mediated transport of tacrolimus. The transcellular transport of P‐gp substrates was examined in Caco‐2 and P‐gp‐expressing renal epithelial LLC‐GA5‐COL150 cells. In Caco‐2 cells, the apical‐basal (A‐B) transport of rhodamine123 (Rh123) after a 120 min incubation was increased by 47.1%, whereas that in the B‐A direction was decreased by 61.7% in the presence of risperidone (100 μm). These results indicate that risperidone showed an inhibitory effect on the P‐gp‐mediated transport of Rh123. In LLC‐GA5‐COL150 cells, the A‐B transport of tacrolimus after 120 min incubation was increased by 21.7% in the presence of risperidone (100 μm), whereas that in the B‐A direction was decreased by 10.7%. These results suggest that risperidone was at least partly involved in the mechanism of the marked increase in the C/D ratio of tacrolimus. This case report provides new insights into the diversity of drug interactions of tacrolimus triggered by the combination of two concomitant drugs.
Contribution of equilibrative nucleoside transporter(s) to intestinal basolateral and apical transports of anticancer trifluridine
Authors: Takahashi Koichi , Yoshisue Kunihiro , Chiba Masato , Nakanishi Takeo , Tamai Ikumi
Published: October 2017

Trifluridine (FTD) exhibits anticancer activities after its oral administration despite its hydrophilic nature. It was previously reported that concentrative nucleoside transporter (CNT) 1 mediates the apical uptake of FTD in human small intestinal epithelial cells (HIECs). In the present study, FTD was also identified as a substrate for equilibrative nucleoside transporter (ENT) 1 and ENT2 in transporter gene‐transfected cells. An immunocytochemical analysis revealed that ENT1 was expressed at the basolateral and apical membranes of HIECs. Cellular accumulation increased in the presence of S‐(4‐nitrobenzyl)‐6‐thioinosine (NBMPR), an ENT selective inhibitor. Cytotoxicity in HIEC monolayers at low FTD concentrations was increased by NBMPR, and this may have been due to inhibition of the ENT‐mediated basolateral transport of FTD by NBMPR. These results suggest that ENTs reduce the intestinal cytotoxicity of FTD by facilitating its basolateral efflux. On the other hand, the intracellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of FTD in HIECs were decreased at higher concentrations of FTD by NBMPR, and this may have been due to the NBMPR inhibition of the apical uptake of FTD, which has been suggested to be mediated by CNTs and ENTs. In conclusion, ENTs were responsible for intestinal transepithelial permeation by mediating the basolateral efflux of FTD after its uptake by CNT1 from the apical side, resulting in decreases in its intracellular accumulation and intestinal toxicity in humans. Equilibrative nucleoside transporters may also partially contribute to the low‐affinity uptake of FTD across the apical membrane along with high‐affinity CNT1.
Comparative genomics and transcriptomics analysis‐guided metabolic engineering of Propionibacterium acidipropionici for improved propionic acid production
Authors: Guan Ningzi , Du Bin , Li Jianghua , Shin Hyun‐dong , Chen Rachel R. , Du Guocheng , Chen Jian , Liu Long
Published: October 2017

Acid stress induced by the accumulation of organic acids during the fermentation of propionibacteria is a severe limitation in the microbial production of propionic acid (PA). To enhance the acid resistance of strains, the tolerance mechanisms of cells must first be understood. In this study, comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses were conducted on wild‐type and acid‐tolerant Propionibacterium acidipropionici to reveal the microbial response of cells to acid stress during fermentation. Combined with the results of previous proteomic and metabolomic studies, several potential acid‐resistance mechanisms of P. acidipropionici were analyzed. Energy metabolism and transporter activity of cells were regulated to maintain pH homeostasis by balancing transmembrane transport of protons and ions; redundant protons were eliminated by enhancing the metabolism of certain amino acids for a relatively stable intracellular microenvironment; and protective mechanism of macromolecules were also induced to repair damage to proteins and DNA by acids. Transcriptomic data indicated that the synthesis of acetate and lactate were undesirable in the acid‐resistant mutant, the expression of which was 2.21‐fold downregulated. In addition, metabolomic data suggested that the accumulation of lactic acid and acetic acid reduced the carbon flow to PA and led to a decrease in pH. On this basis, we propose a metabolic engineering strategy to regulate the synthesis of lactic acid and acetic acid that will reduce by‐products significantly and increase the PA yield by 12.2% to 10.31 ± 0.84 g/g DCW. Results of this study provide valuable guidance to understand the response of bacteria to acid stress and to construct microbial cell factories to produce organic acids by combining systems biology technologies with synthetic biology tools.
Identification of absorbed constituents and in vivo metabolites in rats after oral administration of Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii by ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Feng Xinchi , Huo Xiaoguang , Liu Hongxia , Chai Liwei , Ding Liqin , Qiu Feng
Published: October 2017

The calyces of Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii (Chinese Lantern, JDL) are well‐known as traditional Chinese medicine owing to its various therapeutic effects. However, the bioactive constituents responsible for the pharmacological effects of JDL and their metabolites in vivo are still unclear to date. In this paper, an ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS/MS) method was established to identify absorbed constituents and in vivo metabolites in rat biological fluids after oral administration of JDL. Based on the proposed strategy, 33 compounds were observed in dosed rat biosamples. Twelve of 33 compounds were indicated as prototype components of JDL, and 21 compounds were predicted to be metabolites of JDL. Finally, the metabolic pathways were proposed, which were glucuronidation, sulfation, methylation and dehydroxylation for flavonoid constituents and sulfonation and hydroxylation for physalin consitituents. This is the first systematic study on the absorbed constituents and metabolic profiling of JDL and will provide a useful template for screening and characterizing the ingredients and metabolites of traditional Chinese medicine.
Simultaneous determination of usnic, diffractaic, evernic and barbatic acids in rat plasma by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry and its application to pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Wang Hanxue , Yang Tao , Cheng Xuemei , Kwong Sukfan , Liu Chenghai , An Rui , Li Guowen , Wang Xinhong , Wang Changhong
Published: October 2017

Usnea longissima Ach. (Usnea) is used in pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics. Evernic acid (EA), barbatic acid (BA), diffractaic acid (DA) and usnic acid (UA) are the most typical ingredients in U. longissima and exert a wide variety of biological functions. The study aimed to develop a sensitive method for simultaneous analysis of EA, BA, DA and UA in rat plasma and was applied to pharmacokinetic studies after consumption of UA and ethanol extract from U. longissima (UE). The samples were separated on a BEH C18 column by gradient elution with 0.5% formic acid in water and in methanol. The relative molecular masses of analytes were obtained in full‐scan range from 50.0 to 750.0 m/z under negative ionization mode by UPLC‐Q‐Exactive Orbitrap MS. All validation parameters, such as lower limit of quantitation, linearity, specificity, precision, accuracy, extraction recovery, matrix effect and stability, were within acceptable ranges and the method was appropriate for biological specimen analysis. The pharmacokinetic results indicated that the absolute bioavailabilities of UA after oral administration of UA and UE reached 69.2 and 146.9%, respectively. Compared with UA in UE, the relative bioavailability of DA, BA and EA reached 103.7, 10.4 and 0.7% after oral administration of UE.
l‐Dopa/carbidopa intestinal gel and subthalamic nucleus stimulation: Effects on cognition and behavior
Authors: Valldeoriola Francesc , Santacruz Pilar , Ríos José , Compta Yaroslau , Rumià Jordi , Muñoz José Esteban , Martí María José , Tolosa Eduardo
Published: October 2017

Objective

In Parkinson's disease (PD), effects on behavior and cognition of levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) and subthalamic stimulation (STN‐DBS) and their practical consequences remain controversial. This study was designed to analyze the possible effects of these therapies on cognition and behavior after 1 year follow‐up.

Methods

This was an open‐label, nonrandomized prospective study for pre‐ and postintervention analyses. Twenty‐four patients were considered eligible to be candidates for complex therapies such as STN‐DBS or LCIG; 23 patients treated with standard medication were included as controls. Several cognitive, behavioral, and motor scales were administered before and at 6 and 12 months after the intervention.

Results

Patients treated with LCIG experienced significant improvement in specific neuropsychological functions when compared with patients receiving STN‐DBS and conventional medical treatment after 1 year from the onset of the intervention. In this study, no significant cognitive or behavioral changes occurred in patients treated with subthalamic stimulation when compared to patients receiving conventional medical treatment at 1 year follow‐up.

Conclusions

Patients treated with LCIG may significantly improve some specific neuropsychological functions when compared with patients receiving STN‐DBS and with patients receiving conventional medical treatment after 1 year from the intervention; there are not significant cognitive or behavioral changes in patients treated with STN‐DBS when compared to PD patients receiving conventional medical treatment after 1 year from the intervention. The outcomes showed in the study can help to the selection of the appropriate candidates for STN‐DBS and LCIG.
Accelerating patient access to novel biologics using stable pool‐derived product for non‐clinical studies and single clone‐derived product for clinical studies
Authors: Munro Trent P. , Le Kim , Le Huong , Zhang Li , Stevens Jennitte , Soice Neil , Benchaar Sabrina A. , Hong Robert W. , Goudar Chetan T.
Published: October 2017

Cell cloning and subsequent process development activities are on the critical path directly impacting the timeline for advancement of next generation therapies to patients with unmet medical needs. The use of stable cell pools for early stage material generation and process development activities is an enabling technology to reduce timelines. To successfully use stable pools during development, it is important that bioprocess performance and requisite product quality attributes be comparable to those observed from clonally derived cell lines. To better understand the relationship between pool and clone derived cell lines, we compared data across recent first in human (FIH) programs at Amgen including both mAb and Fc‐fusion modalities. We compared expression and phenotypic stability, bioprocess performance, and product quality attributes between material derived from stable pools and clonally derived cells. Overall, our results indicated the feasibility of matching bioprocess performance and product quality attributes between stable pools and subsequently derived clones. These findings support the use of stable pools to accelerate the advancement of novel biologics to the clinic. © 2017 The Authors Biotechnology Progress published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:1476–1482, 2017
Cardiac tamponade occurred after endoscopic submucosal dissection: conservative management of the esophagopericardial fistula
Authors: Bona Davide , Saino Greta Isabella , Medda Massimo , Panizzo Valerio , Micheletto Giancarlo
Published: October 2017

Key Clinical Message

We describe the case of an esophagopericardial fistula generated after endoscopic submucosal dissection in a patient affected by a superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma immediately treated with percutaneous pericardial drainage and placement of a partially covered self‐expanding metal stent that has been removed using the stent‐in‐stent technique after 35 days.
Nickel‐Substituted Copper Hexacyanoferrate as a Superior Cathode for Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Wanfeng , Zhang Fang , Xiang Xingde , Zhang Xiucheng
Published: October 2017

Copper‐based hexacyanoferrates have received important interest as cathode candidates for aqueous sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), owing to the room‐temperature synthesis route, fast reaction kinetics, and high working potential. However, they suffer from insufficient cycling performance in medium aqueous electrolytes. Herein, a nickel‐substituted copper hexacyanoferrate (Na2Cu0.6Ni0.4[Fe(CN)6]) is reported as a superior cathode for aqueous SIBs, which is developed by studying the effect of Ni substitution on the electrochemical properties of Na2Cu1‐xNix[Fe(CN)6] (0≤x≤1) series. It exhibits a reversible capacity of 62 mAh g−1 and an average working potential of 0.62 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) at a current rate of 0.5 C. Even though being cycled at a high current rate of 10 C, it can achieve a discharge capacity of 56 mAh g−1 and render a capacity retention of 96 % after 1000 cycles. Relative to most previously reported cathode materials, the material shows superior overall performance including improved specific energy, outstanding high‐rate capability, and excellent cycling performance. This indicates that Na2Cu0.6Ni0.4[Fe(CN)6] is a promising cathode candidate for aqueous SIBs.
WO3 Mesoporous Nanobelts towards Efficient Photoelectrocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Song Kai , Gao Fengmei , Yang Weiyou , Wang Enyan , Wang Zhenxia , Hou Huilin
Published: October 2017

In the present work, we reported the exploration of photoanodes based on mesoporous WO3 nanobelts through a foaming‐assisted electrospinning strategy. The introduced polyvinylpyrrolidone in the raw solutions played a determining role on the formation of the nanobelts, enabling their fabrication in a controlled manner. The as‐fabricated mesoporous WO3 nanobelts exhibited a photocurrent density of 311 μA cm−2 and incident photon‐to‐current eﬃciency of 6.5 % at 350 nm and 1.2 V vs. Ag/AgCl under simulated sunlight illumination, which are 2.3 times to that of cylindrical nanofibers. Furthermore, our discovery confirmed that, in comparison to the conventionally cylindrical nanofibers, the nanobelts with a rectangular cross section could be a better candidate for constructing photoanodes with enhanced photoelectrochemical efficiency and stability.
Study of oil‐soluble and water‐soluble drag reducing polymers in multiphase flows
Authors: Alsurakji Ihab , Al‐Sarkhi Abdelsalam , Atiqullah Muhammad , Alhems Luai , El Nakla Meamer
Published: October 2017

Multiphase flow industrial applications require reduced frictional pressure drop (drag) and lower operating costs. Drag reducing polymers (DRPs), which do not require additional infrastructure, meet this requirement. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of water‐soluble polar ZETAG® 8165 and nonpolar oil‐soluble polyisobutylene (PIB) DRPs on pressure gradient and percentage drag reduction using two‐phase air‐water and air‐oil flows, and three‐phase air‐oil‐water flow. The conduit comprised a 22.5 mm I.D. and 2.48 m long horizontal pipe. The fluid flow pattern and DRP shear stability were also studied. The functional mechanism of DRP, not adequately addressed in the literature, was especially revisited. This work suggests that the resultant interaction between the DRP state and the external environment dictates its ability for dampening turbulent eddies, streamlining the velocity field, and eventually increasing the thickness of the laminar sublayer. The DRP state includes its chemical structure and hydrodynamic size. On the other hand, the external environment comprises fluid flow pattern, polarity, phase morphology, and intensity of turbulence. Hence, the functional mode of a DRP is more involved than what the literature usually reports. ZETAG® 8165, having longer branches and ion‐pairs around the backbone, showed less shear degradation than the fairly straight‐chain PIB. The effects of these structural differences were also well‐reflected in their varying abilities to transpose flow pattern, and reduce drag and pressure gradient. For a given DRP, the air flow rate promoted or demoted the DRP performance, depending on the experimental design.
Fluorescence Responses of the Protonation and Deprotonation Processes between Phenolate and Phenol within Rosamine
Authors: Yang Ling , Niu Jinyun , Zhan Yanhua , Xu Yujie , Sun Ru , Ge Jianfeng
Published: October 2017

Two rosamine‐based pH probes 1a and 1b with pyronine‐phenol skeleton were designed and synthesized by a simple one‐step reaction. pH titration experiments showed that probes 1a and 1b exhibit near OFF–ON fluorescence responses around 550–750 nm towards the hydrogen ions. The pKa of the probe 1a is 8.29, while that of the probe 1b increases to 12.1 because of the hydrogen bond inside it. Selective and competitive experiments indicated that both common ions and amino acids did not interfere their emission with hydrogen ions. Moreover, confocal fluorescent imaging showed that the probe 1a could be served as mitochondria biomarker in HeLa and Ges‐1 cells.
Layer‐by‐Layer Approach to Superhydrophobic Zeolite Antireflective Coatings
Authors: Zhang Jianan , Yu Jihong
Published: October 2017

Antireflection surfaces and coatings have attracted considerable interests because they can maximize light transmittance of the substrates. In this work, zeolite antireflective (ZAR) coatings are prepared via layer‐by‐layer (LBL) assembly of MFI‐type zeolite silicalite‐1 and polyelectrolyte. A micro‐ and macroporous hierarchical structure was obtained which contributes to the antireflective property of the zeolite coatings. The light transmittance of the coating on quartz can achieve as high as 99.3% at 650 nm. Furthermore, a superhydrophobic ZAR coating can be obtained by chemical modification with 1H,1H,2H,2H–perfluorooctyl‐triethoxysilane. This work demonstrates that zeolites are excellent candidates as high transparent superhydrophobic coatings.
Copper Catalyzed Asymmetric [4 + 2] Annulations of D‐A Cyclobutanes with Aldehydes
Authors: Hu Jiang‐Lin , Zhou Li , Wang Lijia , Xie Zuowei , Tang Yong
Published: October 2017

Copper catalyzed enantioselective [4 + 2] annulations of D‐A cyclobutanes and aldehydes have been developed. In the presence of a side arm modified chiral bisoxazoline (SaBOX) ligand, the [4 + 2] annulations proceeded smoothly with a broad substrate scope. 22 examples were studied, leading to the corresponding products with various functional groups in 41%–99% yields with >99/1 dr and 90%–96% ee. The resulting product with two ester groups was mono‐reduced, giving the corresponding product in excellent diastereoselectivity without loss of the enantiopurity.
Expression patterns of ion channels and structural proteins in a multimodal cell type of the avian optic tectum
Authors: Lischka Katharina , Ladel Simone , Luksch Harald , Weigel Stefan
Published: October 2017

The midbrain is an important subcortical area involved in distinct functions such as multimodal integration, movement initiation, bottom‐up, and top‐down attention. Our group is particularly interested in cellular computation of multisensory integration. We focus on the visual part of the avian midbrain, the optic tectum (TeO, counterpart to mammalian superior colliculus). This area has a layered structure with the great advantage of distinct input and output regions. In chicken, the TeO is organized in 15 layers where visual input targets the superficial layers while auditory input terminates in deeper layers. One specific cell type, the Shepherd's crook neuron (SCN), extends dendrites in both input regions. The characteristic feature of these neurons is the axon origin at the apical dendrite. The molecular identity of this characteristic region and thus, the site of action potential generation are of particular importance to understand signal flow and cellular computation in this neuron. We present immunohistochemical data of structural proteins (NF200, Ankyrin G, and Myelin) and ion channels (Pan‐Nav, Nav1.6, and Kv3.1b). NF200 is strongly expressed in the axon. Ankyrin G is mainly expressed at the axon initial segment (AIS). Myelination starts after the AIS as well as the distribution of Nav channels on the axon. The subtype Nav1.6 has a high density in this region. Kv3.1b is restricted to the soma, the primary neurite and the axon branch. The distribution of functional molecules in SCNs provides insight into the information flow and the integration of sensory modalities in the TeO of the avian midbrain.
Opposing expression gradients of calcitonin‐related polypeptide alpha (Calca/Cgrpα) and tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) in type II afferent neurons of the mouse cochlea
Authors: Wu Jingjing Sherry , Vyas Pankhuri , Glowatzki Elisabeth , Fuchs Paul Albert
Published: October 2017

Type II spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) are small caliber, unmyelinated afferents that extend dendritic arbors hundreds of microns along the cochlear spiral, contacting many outer hair cells (OHCs). Despite these many contacts, type II afferents are insensitive to sound and only weakly depolarized by glutamate release from OHCs. Recent studies suggest that type II afferents may be cochlear nociceptors, and can be excited by ATP released during tissue damage, by analogy to somatic pain‐sensing C‐fibers. The present work compares the expression patterns among cochlear type II afferents of two genes found in C‐fibers: calcitonin‐related polypeptide alpha (Calca/Cgrpα), specific to pain‐sensing C‐fibers, and tyrosine hydroxylase (Th), specific to low‐threshold mechanoreceptive C‐fibers, which was shown previously to be a selective biomarker of type II versus type I cochlear afferents (Vyas et al., ). Whole‐mount cochlear preparations from 3‐week‐ to 2‐month‐old CGRPα‐EGFP (GENSAT) mice showed expression of Cgrpα in a subset of SGNs with type II‐like peripheral dendrites extending beneath OHCs. Double labeling with other molecular markers confirmed that the labeled SGNs were neither type I SGNs nor olivocochlear efferents. Cgrpα starts to express in type II SGNs before hearing onset, but the expression level declines in the adult. The expression patterns of Cgrpα and Th formed opposing gradients, with Th being preferentially expressed in apical and Cgrpα in basal type II afferent neurons, indicating heterogeneity among type II afferent neurons. The expression of Th and Cgrpα was not mutually exclusive and co‐expression could be observed, most abundantly in the middle cochlear turn.
Artificial Photosynthetic Systems for CO2 Reduction: Progress on Higher Efficiency with Cobalt Complexes as Catalysts
Authors: Wang Feng
Published: October 2017

The conversion of CO2 into fuels or value‐added chemicals is currently a field of great research interest. Molecular cobalt catalysts have long been used as mediators of reductive transformations of CO2. In this Minireview, the cobalt complex‐based photocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic systems for CO2 reduction are discussed and summarized, alongside progress on the design of new molecular cobalt catalysts and their performance in photocatalysis.
Regulation of glycosaminoglycan biogenesis is critical for sensitive‐period‐dependent vocal ontogeny
Authors: Mencio Caitlin P. , My Tran Vy , Quintero Maritza V. , Koketsu Mamoru , Goller Franz , Kuberan Balagurunathan
Published: October 2017

In the brain, the extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a central role during neural development and thus modulates critical‐period regulated behavioral ontogeny. The major components of the ECM are glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) including chondroitin sulfate (CS). However, the specific roles of GAGs in behavioral development are largely unknown. It has been shown that xylosides affect the biological functions of GAGs through modulating GAG biosynthesis. Particularly, xylosides affect GAG biosynthesis through priming of GAG chains (priming activity), competing with endogenous core proteins that carry GAG initiation sites (decoy activity), or both. Using birdsong as our model, we investigated, for the first time, how xyloside‐mediated modulation of GAG biogenesis affects song development. Xylosides infused into motor cortex of juvenile birds alter song development by specifically affecting ontogeny of the stereotyped sequence rather than the acoustic structure of syllables. Further analyses reveal that observed changes can be attributed to the priming activity rather than the decoy activity of xylosides. Collectively, these results suggest that regulation of GAG biogenesis through chemical biology approaches may allow promising therapeutic interventions of critical‐period‐dependent central nervous system plasticity. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 1401–1412, 2017
Disruption of behavior and brain metabolism in artificially reared rats
Authors: Aguirre‐Benítez Elsa L. , Porras Mercedes G. , Parra Leticia , González‐Ríos Jacquelina , Garduño‐Torres Dafne F. , Albores‐García Damaris , Avendaño Arturo , Ávila‐Rodríguez Miguel A. , Melo Angel I. , Jiménez‐Estrada Ismael , Mendoza‐Garrido Ma. Eugenia , Toriz César , Diaz Daniel , Ibarra‐Coronado Elizabeth , Mendoza‐Ángeles Karina , Hernández‐Falcón Jesús
Published: October 2017

Early adverse life stress has been associated to behavioral disorders that can manifest as inappropriate or aggressive responses to social challenges. In this study, we analyzed the effects of artificial rearing on the open field and burial behavioral tests and on GFAP, c‐Fos immunoreactivity, and glucose metabolism measured in anxiety‐related brain areas. Artificial rearing of male rats was performed by supplying artificial milk through a cheek cannula and tactile stimulation, mimicking the mother's licking to rat pups from the fourth postnatal day until weaning. Tactile stimulation was applied twice a day, at morning and at night, by means of a camel brush on the rat anogenital area. As compared to mother reared rats, greater aggressiveness, and boldness, stereotyped behavior (burial conduct) was observed in artificially reared rats which occurred in parallel to a reduction of GFAP immunoreactivity in somatosensory cortex, c‐Fos immunoreactivity at the amygdala and primary somatosensory cortex, and lower metabolism in amygdala (as measured by 2‐deoxi‐2‐[18fluoro]‐d‐glucose uptake, assessed by microPET imaging). These results could suggest that tactile and/or chemicalstimulifrom the mother and littermates carry relevant information for the proper development of the central nervous system, particularly in brain areas involved with emotions and social relationships of the rat. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 1413–1429, 2017
Semi‐quantitative analysis of tramadol, dextromethorphan, and metabolites in decomposed skeletal tissues by ultra performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Cornthwaite H. M. , Labine L. , Watterson J. H.
Published: October 2017

The use of filtration/pass‐through extraction (FPTE) and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC–qTOF–MS) to detect tramadol (TRAM), dextromethorphan (DXM), and metabolites from skeletal remains is described. Rats (n=5) received 50 mg/kg tramadol and were euthanized by CO2 asphyxiation approximately 30 minutes post‐dose. Rats (n=4) received 75 mg/kg dextromethorphan and were euthanized by CO2 asphyxiation approximately 45 minutes post‐dose. Remains decomposed to skeleton outdoors and vertebral bones were collected. Bones were cleaned, dried, and pulverized to a fine powder. Bones underwent dynamic methanolic extraction followed by FPTE before analysis using UPLC–qTOF–MS. Recovery was at least 90% of maximal value within the first 10 minutes of methanolic extraction for all samples assayed. Analytical response was measured over the concentration range of 1–500 ng/mL, with precision and bias <20% in triplicate analyses of all calibrators, and a limit of detection of 1 ng/mL for TRAM, DXM, and all metabolites. The vertebral bone analyzed using this method detected TRAM, DXM, and their respective metabolites in all samples analyzed.
Climate change leads to increasing population density and impacts of a key island invader
Authors: McClelland Gregory T. W. , Altwegg Res , van Aarde Rudi J. , Ferreira Sam , Burger Alan E. , Chown Steven L.
Published: October 2017

The considerable threats of invasive rodents to island biodiversity are likely to be compounded by climate change. Forecasts for such interactions have been most pronounced for the Southern Ocean islands where ameliorating conditions are expected to decrease thermal and resource restrictions on rodents. Firm evidence for changing rodent populations in response to climate change, and demonstrations of associated impacts on the terrestrial environment, are nonetheless entirely absent for the region. Using data collected over three decades on sub‐Antarctic Marion Island, we tested empirically whether mouse populations have changed through time and whether these changes can be associated significantly with changing abiotic conditions. Changes in invertebrate populations, which have previously been attributed to mouse predation, but with little explicit demographic analysis, were also examined to determine whether they can be associated with changing mouse populations. The total number of mice on the island at annual peak density increased by 430.0% between 1979–1980 and 2008–2011. This increase was due to an advanced breeding season, which was robustly related to the number of precipitation‐free days during the non‐breeding season. Mice directly reduced invertebrate densities, with biomass losses of up to two orders of magnitude in some habitats. Such invertebrate declines are expected to have significant consequences for ecosystem processes over the long term. Our results demonstrate that as climate change continues to create ameliorating conditions for invasive rodents on sub‐Antarctic islands, the severity of their impacts will increase. They also emphasize the importance of rodent eradication for the restoration of invaded islands.
Population genomics of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus: insights into the recent worldwide invasion
Authors: Kotsakiozi Panayiota , Richardson Joshua B. , Pichler Verena , Favia Guido , Martins Ademir J. , Urbanelli Sandra , Armbruster Peter A. , Caccone Adalgisa
Published: October 2017

Aedes albopictus, the “Asian tiger mosquito,” is an aggressive biting mosquito native to Asia that has colonized all continents except Antarctica during the last ~30–40 years. The species is of great public health concern as it can transmit at least 26 arboviruses, including dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. In this study, using double‐digest Restriction site‐Associated DNA (ddRAD) sequencing, we developed a panel of ~58,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) based on 20 worldwide Ae. albopictus populations representing both the invasive and the native range. We used this genomic‐based approach to study the genetic structure and the differentiation of Ae. albopictus populations and to understand origin(s) and dynamics of the recent invasions. Our analyses indicated the existence of two major genetically differentiated population clusters, each one including both native and invasive populations. The detection of additional genetic structure within each major cluster supports that these SNPs can detect differentiation at a global and local scale, while the similar levels of genomic diversity between native and invasive range populations support the scenario of multiple invasions or colonization by a large number of propagules. Finally, our results revealed the possible source(s) of the recent invasion in Americas, Europe, and Africa, a finding with important implications for vector‐control strategies.
Quantitative response of leaf‐litter decomposition rate to water abstraction in a gradient: Implications for environmental flow management
Authors: Huang Wei , Liu Xiaobo , Peng Wenqi , Ma Wei , Zhang Jianmin
Published: October 2017

Water abstraction significantly impacts streams and rivers, in turn affecting ecosystem structure and function. Previous studies have mostly focused on the response of structural indicators (e.g., invertebrate community composition) to water abstraction but have often neglected the indicators of ecosystem processes (e.g., decomposition rates). In this study, we investigated the relationship of leaf‐litter decomposition rate (k) with flow reduction in a manipulated ecosystem experiment. The flow reduction rate across our experimental reaches was about 25%. The results showed that water diversion significantly reduced the discharge, width and depth of the stream, but did not affect water quality. The leaf‐litter decomposition rate varied from 0.001day‐1 to 0.026 day‐1 and decreased along with flow reduction. The results elucidate the impact of water abstraction on the decomposition of leaf‐litter in streams. A quantitative relationship between the flow rate (Q) and the decomposition rate (k), mathematically expressed as k = 0.0231 exp(ΔQ1.232), was derived. Furthermore, a framework was developed for setting the minimum environmental flow based on the assessment of river health by using leaf‐litter processing rates.
Highly Oriented Magnetic Film Composed of Ga‐Substituted ε‐Iron Oxide and the Angular Dependence of the Magnetic Hysteresis Loops
Authors: Yoshikiyo Marie , Namai Asuka , Imoto Kenta , Tokoro Hiroko , Ohkoshi Shin‐ichi
Published: October 2017

We report a magnetic film based on crystallographically oriented metal‐substituted ε‐iron oxide, ε‐Ga0.45Fe1.55O3. This film was prepared by mixing nanoparticles and a vehicle resin under an applied external magnetic field. Thea‐axis of the orthorhombic crystal structure with aPna21space group is oriented out of the plane of the film. The degree of orientation is very high with a Lotgering factor of 0.94. The angular dependence of the magnetic hysteresis loops at room temperature shows a rectangular hysteresis loop with a coercive field of 9.7 kOe and a magnetization of 30.4 emu g–1at 7 T (tesla) when the external field is along the out‐of‐plane direction with respect to the plane of the film, indicating that the easy axis corresponds to the crystallographica‐axis. To understand the origin of the high degree of orientation, we calculated the magnitude of the magnetic coupling between the ε‐Ga0.45Fe1.55O3magnetic nanoparticles based on the magnetic dipole–dipole interaction. The theoretical model considering uniaxial magnetic anisotropy reproduces the angular dependence of the magnetic loops well.
Efficient Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Sonogashira‐Coupled Perylene Monoimide Derivatives: Impact of Electron‐Donating Groups on Optoelectronic Properties
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Chandra Falguni , Sahoo Dhananjaya , Koner Apurba L.
Published: October 2017

An efficient microwave‐assisted Sonogashira‐coupling protocol for the synthesis of peri‐functionalized perylene monoimide dye derivatives was developed. This method was found to be significantly faster than the conventional coupling method and provided products with interesting optoelectronic properties in moderate to good yields. Electronic communication of the electron‐rich aryl and polyaryl groups with the perylene core through C≡C bonds was investigated.