bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B Lymphocyte–Specific Loss of Ric-8A Results in a Gα Protein Deficit and Severe Humoral Immunodeficiency
Authors: Boularan Cedric , Hwang Il-Young , Kamenyeva Olena , Park Chung , Harrison Kathleen , Huang Zhen , Kehrl John H.
Published: August 2015

Resistance to inhibitors of cholinesterase 8A (Ric-8A) is a highly evolutionarily conserved cytosolic protein initially identified in Caenorhabditis elegans, where it was assigned a regulatory role in asymmetric cell divisions. It functions as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Gαi, Gαq, and Gα12/13 and as a molecular chaperone required for the initial association of nascent Gα subunits with cellular membranes in embryonic stem cell lines. To test its role in hematopoiesis and B lymphocytes specifically, we generated ric8fl/flvav1-cre and ric8fl/flmb1-cre mice. The major hematopoietic cell lineages developed in the ric8fl/flvav1-cre mice, notwithstanding severe reduction in Gαi2/3, Gαq, and Gα13 proteins. B lymphocyte–specific loss of Ric-8A did not compromise bone marrow B lymphopoiesis, but splenic marginal zone B cell development failed, and B cells underpopulated lymphoid organs. The ric8fl/flmb1-cre B cells exhibited poor responses to chemokines, abnormal trafficking, improper in situ positioning, and loss of polarity components during B cell differentiation. The ric8fl/flmb1-cre mice had a severely disrupted lymphoid architecture and poor primary and secondary Ab responses. In B lymphocytes, Ric-8A is essential for normal Gα protein levels and is required for B cell differentiation, trafficking, and Ab responses.
Role of SHIP1 in Invariant NKT Cell Development and Functions
Authors: Anderson Courtney K. , Salter Alexander I. , Toussaint Leon E. , Reilly Emma C. , Fugère Céline , Srivastava Neetu , Kerr William G. , Brossay Laurent
Published: August 2015

SHIP1 is a 5′-inositol phosphatase known to negatively regulate the signaling product of the PI3K pathway, phosphatidylinositol (3–5)-trisphosphate. SHIP1 is recruited to a large number of inhibitory receptors expressed on invariant NK (iNKT) cells. We hypothesized that SHIP1 deletion would have major effects on iNKT cell development by altering the thresholds for positive and negative selection. Germline SHIP1 deletion has been shown to affect T cells as well as other immune cell populations. However, the role of SHIP1 on T cell function has been controversial, and its participation on iNKT cell development and function has not been examined. We evaluated the consequences of SHIP1 deletion on iNKT cells using germline-deficient mice, chimeric mice, and conditionally deficient mice. We found that T cell and iNKT cell development are impaired in germline-deficient animals. However, this phenotype can be rescued by extrinsic expression of SHIP1. In contrast, SHIP1 is required cell autonomously for optimal iNKT cell cytokine secretion. This suggests that SHIP1 calibrates the threshold of iNKT cell reactivity. These data further our understanding of how iNKT cell activation is regulated and provide insights into the biology of this unique cell lineage.
Proteolytic Cleavage of AMPKα and Intracellular MMP9 Expression Are Both Required for TLR4-Mediated mTORC1 Activation and HIF-1α Expression in Leukocytes
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Amorosa Louis F. , Coyle Susette M. , Macor Marie A. , Lubitz Sara E. , Carson Jeffrey L. , Birnbaum Morris J. , Lee Leonard Y. , Haimovich Beatrice
Published: August 2015

LPS-induced TLR4 activation alters cellular bioenergetics and triggers proteolytic cleavage of AMPKα and HIF-1α expression in leukocytes. In human leukocytes, and more specifically neutrophils, AMPKα cleavage yields 55- and 35-kDa protein fragments. In this study, we address the mechanism by which AMPKα is cleaved and its relevance to human health. Our data indicate that AMPKα cleavage is linked to MMP9 expression and that both are required for mammalian target of rapamycin complex-1 and S6K1 activation and HIF-1α expression in LPS-stimulated human and mice leukocytes. Three key observations support this conclusion. First, no changes in AMPKα and TLR4 signaling intermediates (mammalian target of rapamycin complex-1/S6 kinase 1/HIF-1α) were detected in LPS-stimulated MMP9-deficient mice leukocytes. Second, rMMP9 cleaved human AMPKα ex vivo, producing degradation products similar in size to those detected following LPS stimulation. Third, MMP9 inhibitors prevented AMPKα degradation and HIF-1α expression in LPS-activated human leukocytes, whereas AMPK activators blocked MMP9 and HIF-1α expression. Significantly, AMPKα degradation, MMP9, and TLR4 signaling intermediates were all detected in leukocytes from patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and patients following cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Plasma from these two patient cohorts induced AMPKα cleavage and TLR4 signaling intermediates in healthy donor leukocytes and either a TLR4 inhibitor or polymyxin prevented these outcomes. Detection of AMPKα degradation, MMP9 expression, and TLR4 signaling intermediates described in this study in leukocytes, the most readily available human cells for clinical investigation, may provide a powerful tool for further exploring the role of TLR4 signaling in human diseases and lead to identification of new, context-specific therapeutic modalities for precision medicine.
Parafibromin Is a Component of IFN-γ–Triggered Signaling Pathways That Facilitates JAK1/2-Mediated Tyrosine Phosphorylation of STAT1
Authors: Wei Jin , Lian Huan , Zhong Bo , Shu Hong-Bing
Published: August 2015

IFN-γ (also known as type II IFN) is a cytokine that is critically involved in antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. IFN-γ activates JAK1 and JAK2, which lead to the phosphorylation and activation of the transcription factor STAT1. Whether and how additional molecules are involved in the process are not fully clear. In this study, we identified parafibromin as an important component of the IFN-γ–triggered signaling pathways. Overexpression of parafibromin promoted IFN-γ–triggered phosphorylation of STAT1 at Tyr701, subsequent expression of downstream genes, and cellular antiviral response, whereas knockdown of parafibromin had opposite effects. Parafibromin interacted with JAK1/2, promoted the interactions of JAK1–JAK2 and JAK1/2–STAT1, and promoted tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1 by JAKs after IFN-γ stimulation. Our results reveal a previously uncharacterized role of parafibromin in mediating IFN-γ–triggered signaling and cellular effects.
Beta Estimation in Indian Stock Markets - Some Issues
Authors: Dash Mihir
Published: August 2015

This study examines the reliability of the OLS beta estimates in Indian stock markets by considering the residual characteristics of the market model regressions. The statistics used include the coefficient of determination (R2), the F-test for significance of the regression coefficient, the Durbin-Watson test for serial autocorrelation, the residual autocorrelation function, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests for normality of the residuals, the presence of outliers, and White’s test for heteroskedasticity.

The results of the study indicate some serious issues afflicting beta estimation in Indian stock markets, including: non-normality of stock returns and of residuals, extreme standardized residual values, heteroskedasticity, residual autocorrelation, and low R2. Thus, the simple market model is likely to result in biased estimates for beta in Indian stock markets.
The effects of carbon-in-ash on mercury capture from flue gas
Authors: Kim Kyung Man
Published: August 2015

Mercury, although only a trace element in coal, is an important pollutant because coal burning is increasing around the world for manufacturing and energy production. In addition, coal-fired plants are the largest anthropogenic source of mercury emission to the environment. Mercury capture mostly occurs under heterogeneous conditions between sorbent particles and gaseous mercury, and this study is mainly devoted to understanding the role of carbon-in-ash on mercury capture from flue gas. Coal flyash samples are characterized by loss-on-ignition (LOI) carbon content, surface area (BET) tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphology. Flyash sorbents are injected using an in-flight configuration and then mercury concentration is measured by Hg continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS). The unburned carbon in ash is found to be one main factor for capturing mercury. In addition, mercury capture increases when flyash samples have more surface area. Carbon in ash is also positively correlated with surface area within coal rank. This suggests that unburned carbon plays a formative or structural role in surface area increase on flyash. However, mercury uptake is shown to be relatively low when using flyash from high rank coal such as anthracite because of the small surface area coming from its non-porous structure. Therefore, when flyash is used as a sorbent for mercury capture, quantitative surface area should be compared and coal rank also should be considered. Carbon content in ash as mercury capture sorbents is a good indicator for mercury capture, but its surface area should also be considered for predicting mercury uptake.
Post-Holocaust Representations of Poland in Israeli Literature
Authors: Ronen Shoshana
Published: August 2015

The article discusses different images of Poland in post-Holocaust Hebrew literature. These texts portray journeys to Poland as a means of constructing a self-identity. Poland is a perfect place for such a search. It is the soil on which many Jews lived for centuries and where a large portion of the Jewish people was exterminated in World War II. Poland is, on the one hand, the place of origin and, on the other hand, the place where an entire civilization came to an end. The article distinguishes two main waves in journeys to Poland in Israeli literature. The first wave was the first encounter with Communist or Postcommunist Poland as it awakened to a new world. This wave was composed primarily of “second-generation” writers who were trying to construct their own identity and memory from the remnants of the destroyed Jewish world. For them, the journey to Poland was first and foremost a journey to the valley of death. The second wave was of Israeli writers who traveled to the same “void” as their predecessors, but they were fascinated by the memory of the absent Jews, which was constructed by Poles. They are distant from themselves, and they have a sense of irony as they observe the Polish reality around them. This Poland is different, democratic, and modern. The second-wave writers are not afraid to enter into a dialogue and interaction with Poles and they treat them as subjects, not as symbols of the “other”; but for first-wave writers, Poles were merely in the background, not partners for dialogue. However, in both waves the goal of the journey is to construct an identity by finding a link to the past that will establish a continuity: a continuity that offers the consolation of a complete story and therefore closure.
Sousa Mendes, Souza Dantas, and the Flight of Polish Refugees from France
Authors: Afonso Rui , Koifman Fábio
Published: August 2015

This article deals with two diplomats and the impact they had on the lives of Polish refugees trapped in France during the German invasion of May and June 1940. These individuals were the Portuguese consul-general in Bordeaux, Aristides de Sousa Mendes, and Brazil’s ambassador to France and to the Vichy government, Luiz Martins de Souza Dantas. Sousa Mendes was recalled to Portugal and left France in July 1940, after the French defeat and the subsequent partition of the country into the Occupied Zone and the Free Zone (Vichy France). Souza Dantas remained in the Free Zone and continued to help refugees. This article offers a comparison between the Portuguese and Brazilian refugee policies of the time, focusing on their discriminatory aspects. The disobedience and humanitarian actions of the two diplomats are also described, including numerous examples of the treatment of refugees, among them both famous and ordinary Poles. Some had left Poland recently, while others had emigrated to other European countries years before—but all were in danger. These two diplomats provided desperate people with the unauthorized visas they needed to escape France, at personal risk for their activities. The consequences for Sousa Mendes and Souza Dantas of their acts are also discussed.
Oboje (both-collective) Normative Grammar, the Polish National Corpus, Google, and Contemporary Standard Polish
Authors: Swan Oscar
Published: August 2015

This article examines the contemporary Polish usage of the collective numeral oboje/obydwoje (both)1 in order to highlight, on the example of this one word, used in the nominative case, differences that can arise between (a) what people should say according to authorities on correct usage; (b) what people actually do say according to the growing body of writing and speech contained both in the Polish National Corpus and in the search engine Google Search; and (c) what sorts of things are not always found in either (a) or (b) but, often enough, turn out to be what one wants to know. In the end, one needs to work things out for oneself by looking at both (a) and (b) and triangulating the two into (c)—that is, something that seems to make sense. In the course of this paper we will become better informed as to the use of the liczebnik zbiorowy (collective numeral) oboje in Contemporary Standard Polish, which departs substantially and in several ways from the way it is described in standard normative sources.
Proposal for Changes in the Financing System of the EU Budget Poland’s Position
Authors: Kawecka-Wyrzykowska Elżbieta
Published: August 2015

The present system of financing the budget of the European Union (EU) has been criticized for many years, and there are many good reasons for replacing a substantial share of the existing resources with EU taxes. The EU Commission has recently presented a proposal for two new EU taxes: a new value-added tax (VAT) and a foreign transactions tax (FTT). The main objective of this article is to review the Commission’s proposal to finance part of the EU budget through those new EU taxes and to assess the proposal from the point of view of Polish interests. The article begins with a brief characterization of the current system of EU resources and the main criticisms of it. Next, the proposal for the two new EU taxes (VAT and FTT) to supplement and modify the present resources of the EU budget is discussed, and its pros and cons are elaborated. Then Poland’s official position on both proposals is reviewed and assessed. The conclusions compare the pros and cons of the proposal from the point of view of Poland’s contributions to the EU budget.
Polygon Area and Perimeter
Authors: Bair Sherry L. , Cady Jo Ann
Published: August 2015

Solutions to a November 2014 Solve It problem are discussed, and the procedures used with problem solving are explored.
August 2015 Problems
Authors: Roscoe Matt , Pelikan Stephan
Published: August 2015

A monthly set of problems is aimed at a variety of ability levels.
Lacing Together Mathematics and Culture
Authors: Mirich Denise L. , Cavey Laurie O.
Published: August 2015

Native American students make moccasins while developing measurement concepts.
A Worked Example for Creating Worked Examples
Authors: McGinn Kelly M. , Lange Karin E. , Booth Julie L.
Published: August 2015

To reduce algebraic misconceptions in middle school, combine worked examples and self-explanation prompts.
Strategies to Support Students' Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Jung Hyunyi
Published: August 2015

To witness a spike in students' mathematical abilities, explore a model-eliciting activity.
Easy Absolute Values? Absolutely
Authors: Taylor Sharon E. , Mittag Kathleen Cage
Published: August 2015

When we ask algebra students to tell us about absolute value, we usually get an answer along the lines of “something that is always positive.” Students immediately question their answer when asked about the absolute value of zero (0). Sometimes our more advanced students say that it has a V-shaped graph or mention the piecewise definition. Despite the varied answers given by our students, seldom do we hear the answer “distance from 0.” However, using distance from 0 is the perfect way to help students understand absolute-value computations. Distance from 0 also provides a foundation for solving equations and inequalities.
How Much Do the Tiles Cost?
Authors: Quebec Fuentes Sarah , Quebec Rachael
Published: August 2015

In this month's problem, students are presented with a design composed of square and triangle tiles and the total cost of the tiles needed to make the design. They must determine the cost for one square and one triangle tile.
Our Zoo Field Trip
Authors: Leitze Annette Ricks , Brown Danae , Singer Bethany , Yoder Sarah M.
Published: August 2015

Field trips are a great way to expand the walls of your classroom and expose your students to real-life math. Using these problems, explore some of the math associated with a zoo field trip.
Order of Operations: The Myth and the Math
Authors: Bay-Williams Jennifer M. , Martinie Sherri L.
Published: August 2015

Six thought-provoking issues challenge misconceptions about this iconic topic.
An Inside Track: Fostering Mathematical Practices
Authors: Buchheister Kelley , Jackson Christa , Taylor Cynthia
Published: August 2015

Conversations from a second-grade class demonstrate how teachers can use mathematical games to emphasize key ideas from the Common Core's Standards for Mathematical Practice.
Early Addition: It Is in the Cards
Authors: Moomaw Sally
Published: August 2015

Consider these strategies in light of recent research indicating both positive and negative effects of using numerals with young children who are transitioning to addition.
The STEAM behind the Scenes
Authors: Smith Carmen Petrick , King Barbara , González Diana
Published: August 2015

There is a growing need for STEAM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) knowledge and skills across a wide range of professions (Brazell 2013). Yet students often fail to see the usefulness of mathematics beyond the classroom (Kloosterman, Raymond, and Emenaker 1996), and they do not regularly make connections between mathematics and other fields (Kleiman 1991). Further, many students determine that mathematics is only for certain types of people and decide against pursuing advanced studies (Boaler and Greeno 2000).
Jump! Jump!
Authors: Lynch Sararose , Becherer Katie , Taylor Alex
Published: August 2015

A quick, engaging activity, Jump Plate aids in the development of number sense, fluency, and flexibility with numbers. Students apply basic number concepts and operations as they jump from plate to plate.
Surface and airborne measurements of organosulfur and methanesulfonate over the western United States and coastal areas
Authors: Sorooshian Armin , Crosbie Ewan , Maudlin Lindsay C. , Youn Jong‐Sang , Wang Zhen , Shingler Taylor , Ortega Amber M. , Hersey Scott , Woods Roy K.
Published: July 2015

This study reports on ambient measurements of organosulfur (OS) and methanesulfonate (MSA) over the western United States and coastal areas. Particulate OS levels are highest in summertime and generally increase as a function of sulfate (a precursor) and sodium (a marine tracer) with peak levels at coastal sites. The ratio of OS to total sulfur is also highest at coastal sites, with increasing values as a function of normalized difference vegetation index and the ratio of organic carbon to elemental carbon. Correlative analysis points to significant relationships between OS and biogenic emissions from marine and continental sources, factors that coincide with secondary production, and vanadium due to a suspected catalytic role. A major OS species, methanesulfonate (MSA), was examined with intensive field measurements, and the resulting data support the case for vanadium's catalytic influence. Mass size distributions reveal a dominant MSA peak between aerodynamic diameters of 0.32–0.56 µm at a desert and coastal site with nearly all MSA mass (≥84%) in submicrometer sizes; MSA:non‐sea‐salt sulfate ratios vary widely as a function of particle size and proximity to the ocean. Airborne data indicate that relative to the marine boundary layer, particulate MSA levels are enhanced in urban and agricultural areas and also the free troposphere when impacted by biomass burning. Some combination of fires and marine‐derived emissions leads to higher MSA levels than either source alone. Finally, MSA differences in cloud water and out‐of‐cloud aerosol are discussed.
A modeling study of irrigation effects on global surface water and groundwater resources under a changing climate
Authors: Leng Guoyong , Huang Maoyi , Tang Qiuhong , Leung L. Ruby
Published: August 2015

This study investigates the effects of irrigation on global water resources by performing and analyzing Community Land Model 4.0 (CLM4) simulations driven by downscaled/bias‐corrected historical simulations and future projections from five General Circulation Models (GCMs). For each climate scenario, three sets of numerical experiments were performed: (1) a CTRL experiment in which all crops are assumed to be rainfed; (2) an IRRIG experiment in which the irrigation module is activated using surface water (SW) to feed irrigation; and (3) a PUMP experiment in which a groundwater pumping scheme coupled with the irrigation module is activated for conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater (GW) for irrigation. The parameters associated with irrigation and groundwater pumping are calibrated based on a global inventory of census‐based water use compiled by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). Our results suggest that irrigation could lead to two major effects: SW (GW) depletion in regions with irrigation primarily fed by SW (GW), respectively. Furthermore, irrigation depending primarily on SW tends to have larger impacts on low‐flow than high‐flow conditions, suggesting increased vulnerability to drought. By the end of the 21st century, combined effect of increased irrigation water demand and amplified temporal‐spatial variability of water supply may lead to severe local water scarcity for irrigation. Regionally, irrigation has the potential to aggravate/alleviate climate‐induced changes of SW/GW although such effects are negligible when averaged globally. Our study highlights the need to account for irrigation effects and sources in assessing regional climate change impacts.
Prevalence of Gout in the Adult Population of France
Authors: Bardin Thomas , Bouée Stéphane , Clerson Pierre , Chalès Gérard , Flipo René‐Marc , Lioté Frédéric , Perez Vincent , Poiraud Thierry , Schaeverbeke Thierry , Richette Pascal
Published: July 2015

Objective

To estimate adult gout prevalence in France.

Methods

We used a previously established phone questionnaire that allowed for classifying patients as gouty or nongouty by 2 logistic regression models and 1 classification and regression tree (CART) model, the sensitivity and specificity of which were all more than 80%. The full questionnaire was administered by phone to subjects who acknowledged present or past nontraumatic acute pain in a peripheral joint, the others being classified as nongouty. A random sample of adults residing in France was derived from the national telephone directory (home and mobile) by the quota method and further redressed to match the French population. The target size for the interview survey conducted in March and June 2013 was 10,000 participants.

Results

We interviewed 10,026 participants. All 3 models (2 logistic regression models and a CART model) converged to an estimated gout prevalence of 0.9%. This prevalence was lower than that estimated by self‐reporting only (3.7% [95% confidence interval 3.3–4.1]). The prevalence was higher for men than women and increased with age but did not differ by area of France.

Conclusion

Gout prevalence in the adult population of France in 2013 was estimated at 0.9%. Studies using self‐reporting only might overestimate the prevalence.
Long QT syndrome with craniofacial, digital, and neurologic features: Is it useful to distinguish between timothy syndrome types 1 and 2?
Authors: Diep Vinson , Seaver Laurie H.
Published: July 2015

Timothy syndrome (TS) is a rare genetic condition that associates long QT syndrome, structural heart defects, dysmorphic facial features, syndactyly, seizures, developmental delay, and autism. Timothy syndrome type 1 is caused by a recurrent de novo mutation (p.Gly406Arg) in exon 8A of the L‐type calcium channel gene CACNA1C. Timothy syndrome type 2 was originally reported to be associated with a more severe cardiac phenotype but without syndactyly. Timothy syndrome type 2 is caused by mutation in an alternatively spliced exon 8 of the CACNA1C gene. Other mutations in CACNA1C are also reported with long QT syndrome with and without syndromic features overlapping that described in Timothy syndrome. The purpose of this report is to describe the presentation, physical features and natural history of a 4‐year‐old girl with Timothy syndrome type 2 due to the recurrent p.Gly406Arg mutation in exon 8 of CACNA1C. She has similar facial features to Timothy syndrome type 1 without syndactyly. She is developmentally delayed without autism. She recently had her first episode of torsade de pointes associated with febrile illness and hypoglycemia. The findings in this case provide further information about the phenotype and natural history of CACNA1C exon 8 mutation and together with previously reported cases of Timothy syndrome question whether the clinical and molecular distinction between Timothy syndromes types 1 and 2 remains clinically useful. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and EPR/UV/Vis‐NIR Spectroelectrochemical Investigation of a Persistent Phosphanyl Radical Dication
Authors: Schwedtmann Kai , Schulz Stephen , Hennersdorf Felix , Strassner Thomas , Dmitrieva Evgenia , Weigand Jan J.
Published: July 2015

The reaction of the bis(imidazoliumyl)‐substituted PI cation [(2‐ImDipp)P(4‐ImDipp)]+ (10+) (2‐Im=imidazolium‐2‐yl; 4‐Im=imidazolium‐4‐yl; Dipp=2,6‐di‐isopropylphenyl) with trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (HOTf) or methyl trifluoromethylsulfonate (MeOTf) yields the corresponding protonated [(2‐ImDipp)PH(4‐ImDipp)]2+ (112+) and methylated [(2‐ImDipp)PMe(4‐ImDipp)]2+ (122+) dications, respectively. EPR/UV/Vis‐NIR spectroelectrochemical investigation of the low‐coordinated PI cation 10+ predicted a stable and “bottleable” P‐centered radical dication [(2‐ImDipp)P(4‐ImDipp)]2+. (132+.). The reaction of 10+ with the nitrosyl salt NO[OTf] yields the persistent phosphanyl radical dication 132+. as triflate salt in crystalline form. Quantum chemical investigation revealed an exceptional high spin density at the P atom.
Do Anti‐Bredt Natural Products Exist? Olefin Strain Energy as a Predictor of Isolability
Authors: Krenske Elizabeth H. , Williams Craig M.
Published: July 2015

Bredt’s rule holds a special place in the realm of physical organic chemistry, but its application to natural products chemistry—the field in which the rule was originally formulated—is not well defined. Herein, the use of olefin strain (OS) energy as a readily calculated predictor of the stability of natural products containing a bridgehead alkene is introduced. Schleyer first used OS energies to classify parent bridgehead alkenes into “isolable”, “observable”, and “unstable” classes. OS calculations on natural products, using contemporary forcefield methods, unequivocally predict all structurally verified bridgehead alkene natural products to be “isolable”. Thus, when one assigns the structure of a putative bridgehead alkene natural product, an OS in the “observable” or “unstable” ranges is a red flag for error.
A Simple and Efficient Preparation of High‐Purity Hydrogen Trioxide (HOOOH)
Authors: Strle Gregor , Cerkovnik Janez
Published: July 2015

A simple and efficient method allows the synthesis of solutions of high‐purity hydrogen trioxide (HOOOH), released in the low‐temperature methytrioxorhenium(VII) (MTO)‐catalyzed transformation of the ozonized polystyrene‐supported dimethylphenylsilane. High‐purity hydrogen trioxide solutions in diethyl ether, separated from the polymer and free of any reactants and by‐products, can be stored at −20 °C for weeks. By removing the solvent in vacuo, HOOOH could be isolated in highly pure form or transferred to other solvents, thus significantly extending the research perspectives of HOOOH for novel applications.
Das Hexacyanodiboran(6)‐Dianion [B2(CN)6]2−
Authors: Landmann Johannes , Sprenger Jan A. P. , Hailmann Michael , Bernhardt‐Pitchougina Vera , Willner Helge , Ignat'ev Nikolai , Bernhardt Eduard , Finze Maik
Published: July 2015

Diboran(6)‐Dianionen mit über Kohlenstoff an Bor gebundenen Substituenten sind sehr reaktiv, und dementsprechend wurden bisher nur wenige Beispiele beschrieben. Diboran(6)‐Derivate sind die einfachsten Verbindungen mit einer elektronenpräzisen B‐B‐σ‐Bindung, die sowohl von grundlegendem Interesse als auch von Bedeutung für die Materialwissenschaften sind. Wir berichten über das chemisch sehr stabile homoleptische Hexacyanodiboran(6)‐Dianion [B2(CN)6]2−. Es ist luftstabil und reagiert weder mit siedendem Wasser noch mit wasserfreiem Fluorwasserstoff. Seine Salze sind thermisch sehr robust; z. B. zersetzt sich (H3O)2[B2(CN)6] erst ab 200 °C. Das [B2(CN)6]2−‐Dianion ist 1) aus B(CN)32− und einem Oxidationsmittel, 2) aus [BF(CN)3]− und einem Reduktionsmittel oder 3) durch Reaktion von B(CN)32− mit [BHal(CN)3]− (Hal=F, Br) zugänglich. Die letztgenannte Reaktion verläuft über einen dreifach negativ geladenen Übergangszustand nach einem SN2‐Mechanismus.
Chiral Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity: Selective Membrane Permeation of Enantiomers
Authors: Weng Xilun , Baez José E. , Khiterer Mariya , Hoe Madelene Y. , Bao Zongbi , Shea Kenneth J.
Published: July 2015

Following its resolution by diastereomeric complexation, 5,5′,6,6′‐tetrahydroxy‐3,3,3′,3′‐tetramethyl‐1,1′‐spirobisindane (TTSBI) was used to synthesize a chiral ladder polymer, (+)‐PIM‐CN. (+)‐PIM‐COOH was also synthesized by the acid hydrolysis of (+)‐PIM‐CN. Following characterization, both (+)‐PIM‐CN and (+)‐PIM‐COOH were solvent cast directly into semipermeable membranes and evaluated for their ability to enable the selective permeation of a range of racemates, including mandelic acid (Man), Fmoc‐phenylalanine, 1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol (binol), and TTSBI. High ee values were observed for a number of analytes, and both materials exhibited high permeation rates. A selective diffusion–permeation mechanism was consistent with the results obtained with these materials. Their high permeability, processability, and ease of chemical modification offer considerable potential for liquid‐phase membrane separations and related separation applications.
Ein stabiler “Single‐site”‐Palladiumkatalysator für Hydrierungen
Authors: Vilé Gianvito , Albani Davide , Nachtegaal Maarten , Chen Zupeng , Dontsova Dariya , Antonietti Markus , López Núria , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: July 2015

Wir beschreiben die Herstellung und das Hydrierungsverhalten eines Einzelatom‐Palladiumkatalysators, geschaffen durch die Verankerung von Pd‐Atomen in den Mesoporen eines graphitischen Kohlenstoffnitridpolymers. Die Analyse des Materials bestätigt die atomare Dispersion der Palladium‐Phase über die komplette Probe. Gegenüber nanopartikelbasierten Vergleichskatalysatoren zeigte sich die hohe Aktivität und Selektivität deutlich bei Anwendung in der kontinuierlichen Drei‐Phasen‐Hydrierung von Alkinen und Nitroarenen in einem Durchflussreaktor. Dichtefunktionalrechnungen ermöglichten die Erarbeitung fundamentaler Erkenntnisse betreffend Materialstruktur und erlaubten, die hohe katalytische Aktivität und Selektivität auf die einfache Wasserstoffaktivierung und Kohlenwasserstoffadsorption auf den atomar verteilten Pd‐Strukturen zurückzuführen.
Cholesterol Hydroperoxides as Substrates for Cholesterol‐Metabolizing Cytochrome P450 Enzymes and Alternative Sources of 25‐Hydroxycholesterol and other Oxysterols
Authors: van Lier Johan E. , Mast Natalia , Pikuleva Irina A.
Published: July 2015

The interaction of the primary autoxidation products of cholesterol, namely 25‐ and 20ξ‐hydroperoxides, with the four principal cholesterol‐metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes is reported. Addition of cholesterol 25‐hydroperoxide to the enzymes CYP27A1 and CYP11A1 induced well‐defined spectral changes while generating 25‐hydroxycholesterol as the major product. The 20ξ‐hydroperoxides induced spectral shifts in CYP27A1 and CYP11A1 but glycol metabolites were detected only with CYP11A1. CYP7A1 and CYP46A1 failed to give metabolites with any of the hydroperoxides. A P450 hydroperoxide‐shunt reaction is proposed, where the hydroperoxides serve as both donor for reduced oxygen and substrate. CYP27A1 was shown to mediate the reduction of cholesterol 25‐hydroperoxide to 25‐hydroxycholesterol, a role of potential significance for cholesterol‐rich tissues with high oxidative stress. CYP27A1 may participate in the removal of harmful autoxidation products in these tissues, while providing a complementary source of 25‐hydroxycholesterol, a modulator of immune cell function and mediator of viral cell entry.
Pentafulvene for the Synthesis of Complex Natural Products: Total Syntheses of (±)‐Pallambins A and B
Authors: Ebner Christian , Carreira Erick M.
Published: July 2015

The first total syntheses of pallambins A and B are enabled by the use of pentafulvene in an unprecedented Diels–Alder reaction. After elaboration of the adduct through chemoselective cyclopropanation, strategic CH insertion affords the dense tetracyclic core of the natural products. 1,3‐Dipolar cycloaddition and palladium(II)‐catalyzed alkoxycarbonylation were leveraged for the construction of the hexacyclic scaffold en route to both natural products.
Reduced sedimentation of barium titanate nanoparticles in poly(vinylidene fluoride) films during solution casting by surface modification
Authors: Zhao Rongyan , Zhao Jun , Wang Lina , Dang Zhi‐Min
Published: July 2015

Reduced sedimentation of barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) nanoparticles during solution casting to prepare the BT/poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) films is systematically investigated by surface modification of the BT nanoparticles. The surface of BT nanoparticles is hydroxylated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or aminated by γ‐aminopropyl triethoxysilane (γ‐APS). It is found that the compatibility between the fillers and polymer matrix is remarkably improved by such surface treatments. As a result, the agglomeration and sedimentation of BT nanoparticles in the BT/PVDF composite films are significantly reduced, which is supported by morphology observation. Better dielectric properties such as higher dielectric constant, higher breakdown strength, and lower dielectric loss are also obtained for the composite films with surface‐modified fillers than those with raw fillers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42662.
Reversible and Selective Fluorescence Detection of Histidine Using a Naphthalimide‐Based Chemosensing Ensemble
Authors: Meng Qingtao , Jia Hongmin , Gao Xue , Wang Yue , Zhang Run , Wang Renjie , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: July 2015

We described a new ensemble‐approach‐based chemosensor, NCH‐Cu2+, for highly selective and reversible detection of histidine (His) in aqueous solution and live cells. The ligand NCH exhibited specific binding with Cu2+ ions over other metal ions, accompanied with a 92.2 % fluorescence quenching. The decomplexation of NCH‐Cu2+ ensemble by His led to the liberation of the fluorophore, NCH, and thus the fluorescence was recovered. The specific fluorescence enhancement of NCH‐Cu2+ towards His showed a good linearity with a detection of limit at 70 nm. Quantification of intracellular His at the single cell level was achieved by microscopy and flow cytometry. Besides the UV/Vis and emission titration, reversibility of the NCH‐Cu2+ towards His was further confirmed by imaging and cytometry analysis. In addition, microscopy studies revealed that NCH‐Cu2+ was distributed in the lysosome of live cells, where it could be employed as a fluorescent biosensor for imaging of His at subcellular level.
Bioreactor control improves bioprocess performance
Authors: Simutis Rimvydas , Lübbert Andreas
Published: July 2015

The performance of bioreactors is not only determined by productivity but also by process quality, which is mainly determined by variances in the process variables. As fluctuations in these quantities directly affect the variability in the product properties, combatting distortions is the main task of practical quality assurance. The straightforward way of reducing this variability is keeping the product formation process tightly under control. Purpose of this keynote is to show that there is enough evidence in literature showing that the performance of the fermentation processes can significantly be improved by feedback control. Most of the currently used open loop control procedures can be replaced by relatively simple feedback techniques. It is shown by practical examples that such a retrofitting does not require significant changes in the well‐established equipment. Feedback techniques are best in assuring high reproducibility of the industrial cultivation processes and thus in assuring the quality of their products. Many developments in supervising and controlling industrial fermentations can directly be taken over in manufacturing processes. Even simple feedback controllers can efficiently improve the product quality. It's the time now that manufacturers follow the developments in most other industries and improve process quality by automatic feedback control.
High‐Performance Fabric‐based Electrochemical Capacitors Utilizing the Enhanced Electrochemistry of PEDOT:PSS Hybridized with SnO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Minbaek , Bae Joonho
Published: July 2015

We present the highly enhanced capacitive performance of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hybridized with SnO2
nanoparticles. The hybridized composites of the conductive polymer and metal oxide nanoparticles (SnO2/PEDOT:PSS) were prepared by dispersing an SnO2
nanopowder in a solution of PEDOT:PSS in water. Fabric supercapacitors using the SnO2/PEDOT:PSS as electrodes exhibited excellent specific capacitances, stable charging–discharging, and low internal resistance. SnO2/PEDOT:PSS demonstrated higher capacitive properties than bare PEDOT:PSS, indicating that hybridization of PEDOT:PSS with SnO2
nanoparticles enhanced the overall performance of the device for electrochemical storage. The enhanced electrochemical behavior of SnO2/PEDOT:PSS is attributed to its higher Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) surface area and the pseudocapacitance of SnO2
nanoparticles. Our work demonstrates that PEDOT:PSS hybridized with SnO2
nanoparticles could be useful in applications for flexible and wearable energy storage devices.
How to Green the red Dragon: A Start‐ups' Little Helper for Sustainable Development in China
Authors: Steinz Henk J. , Van Rijnsoever Frank J. , Nauta Frans
Published: July 2015

This article qualitatively identifies and explains the barriers that foreign cleantech start‐ups can encounter when attempting to enter the Chinese market, as well as the possible strategies that can help overcome these barriers. We base our analysis on interviews with Chinese and foreign entrepreneurs and facilitators. To structure the analysis of such barriers, we use the components of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. We then explain the barriers using institutional theory. We demonstrate that they are caused either by the regulations in China or by the difference between Chinese and Western logics. We further recommend that cleantech entrepreneurs come prepared to China, remain flexible, associate themselves with reputable partners and take advice from those familiar with business in China. Cultural–cognitive barriers might be overcome by integrating the communities of foreign and Chinese start‐ups. Regulative barriers can be removed by the Chinese Government, but this conflicts with the logic of state control. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
An Open and Shut Case of Closed Questions: An Exploration of Joint Investigative Interview Training in Scotland
Authors: Goetzold Susanne
Published: July 2015

Children in Scotland who are subject to child protection interviews should be interviewed jointly by specially trained police officers and social workers who have attended training based on a national curriculum. This study, which was conducted in two Strands, explores the effectiveness of the training, focusing specifically on the free narrative phase of the interview. Strand A explores respondents' self‐evaluation, obtained through semi‐structured interviews with 16 participants, while Strand B comprises an analysis of 21 role‐play interviews. The findings show a considerable discrepancy between perceived practitioner confidence in ability and actual skill levels observed in role‐plays, where interviewers showed a persistent overuse of specific and closed questions, while neglecting the use of open prompts and open questions to encourage free narrative. The study concludes that the national curriculum is not as effective in preparing participants for the free narrative phase of the interview as perceived by participants. Possible reasons are explored. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘A considerable discrepancy between perceived practitioner confidence in ability and actual skill levels’

Key Practitioner Messages

Child protection interview staff were confident in their ability to conduct a free narrative phase in line with Scottish Government guidance.

The curriculum for joint investigative interview training in Scotland appears to be based on an overly optimistic view of baseline skills amongst police officers and social workers.

Greater attention may need to be given to ongoing support for both police officers and social workers involved in joint investigative interviews.

‘Greater attention may need to be given to ongoing support for both police officers and social workers’
Flexible Fiber Supercapacitor Using Biowaste‐Derived Porous Carbon
Authors: Senthilkumar S. T. , Selvan R. Kalai
Published: July 2015

The front cover artwork is provided by Dr. S. T. Senthilkumar and Dr. R. Kalai Selvan, Bharathiar University (Tamil Nadu, India). The image shows the conversion of dead leaves into porous carbons and their application in a fiber supercapacitor for wearable electronics. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.201500090.
Synthesis of Nanoporous Li4Ti5O12–TiO2 Composites for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion‐Battery Anodes
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Zhongyi , Xiao Xingcheng , Liu Dawei
Published: July 2015

This work reports the synthesis of Li4Ti5O12–TiO2 nanoporous composites through an effective, inexpensive, and easily scalable approach. The as‐synthesized products were calcined under a nitrogen atmosphere at 700, 750, or 800 °C. When used as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, the 750 °C nitrogen‐treated Li4Ti5O12–TiO2 sample showed significantly improved capacity as well as good rate capability and cycling stability compared with other samples. It delivered capacities of 220 and 213 mAh g−1 at a current density of 30 mA g−1 when tested at room temperature and 55 °C, respectively. It still had capacities of 184 and 197 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles, which was noticeably higher than the known theoretical capacity of pure Li4Ti5O12 (175 mAh g−1). The excellent electrochemical performance of the nitrogen‐treated nanoporous composites could be attributed to the improved morphology, dual phase crystal structure, and the presence of surface defects from nitrogen treatment.
Recognition of Artificial Nucleobases by E. coli Purine Nucleoside Phosphorylase versus its Ser90Ala Mutant in the Synthesis of Base‐Modified Nucleosides
Authors: Fateev Ilja V. , Kharitonova Maria I. , Antonov Konstantin V. , Konstantinova Irina D. , Stepanenko Vasily N. , Esipov Roman S. , Seela Frank , Temburnikar Kartik W. , Seley‐Radtke Katherine L. , Stepchenko Vladimir A. , Sokolov Yuri A. , Miroshnikov Anatoly I. , Mikhailopulo Igor A.
Published: July 2015

A wide range of natural purine analogues was used as probe to assess the mechanism of recognition by the wild‐type (WT) E. coli purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) versus its Ser90Ala mutant. The results were analyzed from viewpoint of the role of the Ser90 residue and the structural features of the bases. It was found that the Ser90 residue of the PNP 1) plays an important role in the binding and activation of 8‐aza‐7‐deazapurines in the synthesis of their nucleosides, 2) participates in the binding of α‐D‐pentofuranose‐1‐phosphates at the catalytic site of the PNP, and 3) catalyzes the dephosphorylation of intermediary formed 2‐deoxy‐α‐D‐ribofuranose‐1‐phosphate in the trans‐2‐deoxyribosylation reaction. 5‐Aza‐7‐deazaguanine manifested excellent substrate activity for both enzymes, 8‐amino‐7‐thiaguanine and 2‐aminobenzothiazole showed no substrate activity for both enzymes. On the contrary, the 2‐amino derivatives of benzimidazole and benzoxazole are substrates and are converted into the N1‐ and unusual N2‐glycosides, respectively. 9‐Deaza‐5‐iodoxanthine showed moderate inhibitory activity of the WT E. coli PNP, whereas 9‐deazaxanthine and its 2′‐deoxyriboside are weak inhibitors.
On Structural Features Necessary for Near‐IR‐Light Photocatalysts
Authors: Wang Gang , Huang Baibiao , Li Zhujie , Wang Zeyan , Qin Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaoyang , Dai Ying , Whangbo Myung‐Hwan
Published: August 2015

In the search for photocatalysts that can directly utilize near‐IR (NIR) light, we investigated three oxides Cu3(OH)4SO4 (antlerite), Cu4(OH)6SO4, and Cu2(OH)3Cl by photodecomposing 2,4‐dichlorophenol over them under NIR irradiation and by comparing their electronic structures with that of the known NIR photocatalyst Cu2(OH)PO4. Both Cu3(OH)4SO4 and Cu4(OH)6SO4 are NIR photocatalysts, but Cu2(OH)3Cl is not. Thus, in addition to the presence of two different CuOm and Cu′On polyhedra linked with CuOCu′ bridges, the presence of acceptor groups (e.g., SO4, PO4) linked to the metal oxygen polyhedra is necessary for NIR photocatalysts.
Designing Molecular Printboards: A Photolithographic Platform for Recodable Surfaces
Authors: Abt Doris , Schmidt Bernhard V. K. J. , Pop‐Georgievski Ognen , Quick Alexander S. , Danilov Denis , Kostina Nina Yu. , Bruns Michael , Wenzel Wolfgang , Wegener Martin , Rodriguez‐Emmenegger Cesar , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: August 2015

A light induced strategy for the design of β‐cyclodextrin (CD) based supramolecular devices is introduced, presenting a novel tool to fabricate multifunctional biointerfaces. Precision photolithography of a modified β‐CD was established on a light sensitive tetrazole surface immobilized on a bioinspired polydopamine (PDA) anchor layer via various shadow masks, as well as via direct laser writing (DLW), in order to craft any desired printboard design. Interfacial molecular recognition provided by light generated cavitate domains was demonstrated via spatially resolved encoding, erasing, and recoding of distinct supramolecular guest patterns. Thus, the light directed shaping of receptor monolayers introduces a powerful path to control supramolecular assemblies on various surfaces.