bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An analysis of bimanual actions in natural feeding of semi‐wild chimpanzees
Authors: Forrester Gillian S. , Rawlings Bruce , Davila‐Ross Marina
Published: September 2015

Objective

The objective of the current study was to investigate the lateral dominance for a bimanually coordinated natural feeding behavior in semi‐wild chimpanzees.

Methods

Strychnos spp. fruit consumption behaviors in semi‐wild chimpanzees as an ecologically comparable feeding behavior to those found in cerebral lateralization studies of non‐primate species was investigated. Video recordings of 33 chimpanzees were assessed while they consumed hard‐shelled strychnos fruits. Statistical and descriptive measures of hand dominance to highlight lateralized patterns were explored.

Results

Statistical evaluation of feeding bouts revealed a group‐level right‐handed bias for bimanual coordinated feeding actions, however, few individuals were statistically lateralized. Descriptive analyses revealed that the majority of individuals were lateralized and possessed a right‐handed bias for strychnos feeding behavior.

Conclusions

The results provided empirical evidence in support of an early evolutionary delineation of function for the right and left hemispheres. The present findings suggest that great apes express an intermediate stage along the phylogenetic trajectory of human manual lateralization. Am J Phys Anthropol 159:85–92, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Odontogenic and rhinogenic chronic sinusitis: a modern microbiological comparison
Authors: Saibene Alberto Maria , Vassena Christian , Pipolo Carlotta , Trimboli Mariele , De Vecchi Elena , Felisati Giovanni , Drago Lorenzo
Published: September 2015

Background

Odontogenic sinusitis and sinonasal complications of dental disease or treatment (SCDDT) play a relevant, often underappreciated role in paranasal sinus infections. Treating SCDDT patients requires tailored medical and surgical approaches in order to achieve acceptable success rates. These approaches differ from common rhinogenic sinusitis treatment protocols mostly because of the different etiopathogenesis. Our study comprehensively evaluated microbiology and antibiotic resistance in SCDDT patients and compared findings with a control group of patients affected by rhinogenic sinusitis.

Methods

We performed microbiological sampling during surgery on 28 patients with SCDDT and 16 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Colonies were isolated, Gram‐stained, and the species identified using classic biochemical methods. These results were confirmed by DNA pyrosequencing, and then the resistance profile of each SCDDT isolate to various antibiotics was tested.

Results

Microbial growth was observed in all SCDDT patients, whereas samples from 60% of patients in the control group failed to yield any bacterial growth (p < 0.001). Anaerobes grew in 14% of SCDDT patients as compared to 7% of CRSwNP patients (p = 0.42). Of the isolates from SCDDT patients, 70% were susceptible to amoxicillin/clavulanate, whereas all isolates were susceptible to levofloxacin, teicoplanin, and vancomycin. Of the staphylococci identified, 80% were capable of producing beta‐lactamase.

Conclusion

Given the extent of microbiological contamination within the maxillary sinus of SCDDT patients, these infections should be regarded as a different class of conditions from rhinogenic sinusitis. Our findings support the need for different approaches in the treatment of SCDDT patients.
Topical cathelicidin (LL‐37) an innate immune peptide induces acute olfactory epithelium inflammation in a mouse model
Authors: Alt Jeremiah A. , Qin Xuan , Pulsipher Abigail , Orb Quinn , Orlandi Richard R. , Zhang Jianxing , Schults Austin , Jia Wanjian , Presson Angela P. , Prestwich Glenn D. , Oottamasathien Siam
Published: September 2015

Background

Cathelicidin (LL‐37) is an endogenous innate immune peptide that is elevated in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The role of LL‐37 in olfactory epithelium (OE) inflammation remains unknown. We hypothesized that: (1) LL‐37 topically delivered would elicit profound OE inflammation; and (2) LL‐37 induced inflammation is associated with increased infiltration of neutrophils and mast cells.

Methods

To test our hypothesis we challenged C57BL/6 mice intranasally with increasing concentrations of LL‐37. At 24 hours tissues were examined histologically and scored for inflammatory cell infiltrate, edema, and secretory hyperplasia. In separate experiments, fluorescently conjugated LL‐37 was instilled and tissues were examined at 0.5 and 24 hours. To test our last hypothesis, we performed tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) assays for neutrophil activity and immunohistochemistry for tryptase to determine the mean number of mast cells per mm2.

Results

LL‐37 caused increased inflammatory cell infiltrate, edema, and secretory cell hyperplasia of the sinonasal mucosa, with higher LL‐37 concentrations yielding significantly more inflammatory changes (p < 0.01). Fluorescent LL‐37 demonstrated global sinonasal epithelial binding and tissue distribution. Further, higher concentrations of LL‐37 led to significantly greater MPO levels with dose‐dependent increases in mast cell infiltration (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

LL‐37 has dramatic inflammatory effects in the OE mucosa that is dose‐dependent. The observed inflammatory changes in the olfactory mucosa were associated with the infiltration of both neutrophils and mast cells. Our biologic model represents a new model to further investigate the role of LL‐37 in OE inflammation.
A Zinc(II) Photocage Based on a Decarboxylation Metal Ion Release Mechanism for Investigating Homeostasis and Biological Signaling
Authors: Basa Prem N. , Antala Sagar , Dempski Robert E. , Burdette Shawn C.
Published: September 2015

Metal ion signaling in biology has been studied extensively with ortho‐nitrobenzyl photocages; however, the low quantum yields and other optical properties are not ideal for these applications. We describe the synthesis and characterization of NTAdeCage, the first member in a new class of Zn2+ photocages that utilizes a light‐driven decarboxylation reaction in the metal ion release mechanism. NTAdeCage binds Zn2+ with sub‐pM affinity using a modified nitrilotriacetate chelator and exhibits an almost 6 order of magnitude decrease in metal binding affinity upon uncaging. In contrast to other metal ion photocages, NTAdeCage and the corresponding Zn2+ complex undergo efficient photolysis with quantum yields approaching 30 %. The ability of NTAdeCage to mediate the uptake of 65Zn2+ by Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing hZIP4 demonstrates the viability of this photocaging strategy to execute biological assays.
Chiral Primary Amine/Palladium Dual Catalysis for Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation of β‐Ketocarbonyl Compounds with Allylic Alcohols
Authors: Zhou Han , Zhang Long , Xu Changming , Luo Sanzhong
Published: September 2015

An efficient dual catalytic system composed of a chiral primary amine and a palladium complex was developed to promote the direct asymmetric allylic alkylation (AAA) of β‐ketocarbonyl compounds. In particular, the synergistic dual catalytic system enabled the AAA reaction of challenging acyclic aliphatic ketones, such as β‐ketocarbonyl compounds and 1,3‐diketones.
Protein Electronic Conductors: Hemin–Substrate Bonding Dictates Transport Mechanism and Efficiency across Myoglobin
Authors: Raichlin Sara , Pecht Israel , Sheves Mordechai , Cahen David
Published: September 2015

Electron transport (ETp) across met‐myoglobin (m‐Mb), as measured in a solid‐state‐like configuration between two electronic contacts, increases by up to 20 fold if Mb is covalently bound to one of the contacts, a Si electrode, in an oriented manner by its hemin (ferric) group, rather than in a non‐oriented manner. Oriented binding of Mb is achieved by covalently binding hemin molecules to form a monolayer on the Si electrode, followed by reconstitution with apo‐Mb. We found that the ETp temperature dependence (>120 K) of non‐oriented m‐Mb virtually disappears when bound in an oriented manner by the hemin group. Our results highlight that combining direct chemical coupling of the protein to one of the electrodes with uniform protein orientation strongly improves the efficiency of ET across the protein. We hypothesize that the behavior of reconstituted m‐Mb is due to both strong protein–substrate electronic coupling (which is likely greater than in non‐oriented m‐Mb) and direct access to a highly efficient transport path provided by the hemin group in this configuration.
Radical Formation in the Gas‐Phase Ozonolysis of Deprotonated Cysteine
Authors: Khairallah George N. , Maccarone Alan T. , Pham Huong T. , Benton Timothy M. , Ly Tony , da Silva Gabriel , Blanksby Stephen J. , O'Hair Richard A. J.
Published: September 2015

Although the deleterious effects of ozone on the human respiratory system are well‐known, many of the precise chemical mechanisms that both cause damage and afford protection in the pulmonary epithelial lining fluid are poorly understood. As a key first step to elucidating the intrinsic reactivity of ozone with proteins, its reactions with deprotonated cysteine [Cys−H]− are examined in the gas phase. Reaction proceeds at near the collision limit to give a rich set of products including 1) sequential oxygen atom abstraction reactions to yield cysteine sulfenate, sulfinate and sulfonate anions, and significantly 2) sulfenate radical anions formed by ejection of a hydroperoxy radical. The free‐radical pathway occurs only when both thiol and carboxylate moieties are available, implicating electron‐transfer as a key step in this reaction. This novel and facile reaction is also observed in small cys‐containing peptides indicating a possible role for this chemistry in protein ozonolysis.
Herstellung mikrostrukturierter Polymerbürsten auf wiederbeschreibbaren Oberflächen durch Triazolindion‐Click‐Chemie
Authors: Roling Oliver , De Bruycker Kevin , Vonhören Benjamin , Stricker Lucas , Körsgen Martin , Arlinghaus Heinrich F. , Ravoo Bart Jan , Du Prez Filip E.
Published: September 2015

Triazolindion‐Click‐Chemie und Mikrokontaktchemie wurden kombiniert, um Polymerbürsten auf Oberflächen zu drucken, zu löschen und anschließend erneut anzubinden. Die mikrostrukturierten Polymerbürsten wurden auf Alken‐ und Indol‐Monoschichten gebildet, indem zuerst ein mit Triazolindion (TAD) substituierter Atomtransferradikalpolymerisationinitiator (ATRP‐TAD) auf die Monoschichten gedruckt und anschließend eine oberflächeninitiierte Polymerisation durchgeführt wurde. Der dynamische Charakter des Alder‐En‐Addukts von TAD und Indol erlaubte es, die Polymerbürsten bei erhöhten Temperaturen von der Oberfläche zu löschen, während die regenerierten Indol‐Monoschichten neu strukturiert wurden. Der Zyklus aus Schreiben und Löschen konnte vier Mal durchlaufen werden, wodurch die Robustheit der Methode bewiesen ist.
Biomimetische [2Fe‐2S]‐Cluster mit stark delokalisierten gemischtvalenten Eisenzentren
Authors: Yao Shenglai , Meier Florian , Lindenmaier Nils , Rudolph Robert , Blom Burgert , Adelhardt Mario , Sutter Jörg , Mebs Stefan , Haumann Michael , Meyer Karsten , Kaupp Martin , Driess Matthias
Published: September 2015

Eine vollständige Serie von biomimetischen [2Fe‐2S]‐Clustern [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2] (3, LDep=CH[CMeN(2,6‐Et2C6H3)]2), [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2K] (4), [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2][Bu4N] (5, Bu=n‐butyl) und [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2K2] (6) wurde hergestellt und charakterisiert. Das homovalente [2Fe(3+/3+)‐2S]‐Cluster 3 ist durch die Reaktion von [(LDepFe)2(μ‐H)2] 2 mit elementarem Schwefel zugänglich. Die chemische Reduktion von 3 mit einem Moläquivalent elementaren Kalium ergibt das Kontaktionenpaar K+[2Fe‐2S]− (4) in Form eines eindimensionalen Koordinationspolymers, das sich wiederum mit [Bu4N]Cl zum separierten Ionenpaar [Bu4N]+[2Fe‐2S]− (5) umsetzen lässt. Weitere Reduktion von 4 mit Kalium erlaubt den Zugang zum superreduzierten homovalenten [2Fe(2+/2+)‐2S]‐Cluster 6. Bemerkenswert hierbei ist, dass es sich bei den Komplexen 4 und 5 um [2Fe‐2S]‐Cluster mit einem jeweils stark delokalisierten Fe2+Fe3+‐Paar handelt, was durch 57Fe‐Mößbauer‐, Röntgenabsorptions‐ und Röntgenemissionsspektroskopie (XAS, XES) in Übereinstimmung mit DFT‐Rechnungen gesichert ist.
Stepwise Reduction of 9,10‐Bis(dimesitylboryl)anthracene
Authors: Zheng Yang , Xiong Jiao , Sun Yangyang , Pan Xiaobo , Wu Jincai
Published: September 2015

Stepwise reduction of 9,10‐bis(dimesitylboryl)anthracene afforded an radical anion and a dianion, accompanied by stepwise changes of the aromaticity of the anthracene moiety. The radical has a planar semiquinoidal structure, while the dianion has a puckered quinoidal structure. The alteration of the geometries of the 9,10‐bis(dimesitylboryl)anthracene upon reduction is rationalized by the nature of the bonding. These results have been confirmed by cyclic voltammetry, X‐ray crystallography, NMR, EPR, and UV‐vis‐NIR spectroscopy, as well as DFT calculations.
Rewritable Polymer Brush Micropatterns Grafted by Triazolinedione Click Chemistry
Authors: Roling Oliver , De Bruycker Kevin , Vonhören Benjamin , Stricker Lucas , Körsgen Martin , Arlinghaus Heinrich F. , Ravoo Bart Jan , Du Prez Filip E.
Published: September 2015

Triazolinedione (TAD) click reactions were combined with microcontact chemistry to print, erase, and reprint polymer brushes on surfaces. By patterning substrates with a TAD‐tagged atom‐transfer radical polymerization initiator (ATRP‐TAD) and subsequent surface initiated ATRP, it was possible to graft micropatterned polymer brushes from both alkene‐ and indole‐functionalized substrates. As a result of the dynamic nature of the Alder–ene adduct of TAD and indole at elevated temperatures, the polymer pattern could be erased while the regenerated indole substrate could be reused to print new patterns. To demonstrate the robustness of the methodology, the write–erase cycle was repeated four times.
Biomimetic [2Fe‐2S] Clusters with Extensively Delocalized Mixed‐Valence Iron Centers
Authors: Yao Shenglai , Meier Florian , Lindenmaier Nils , Rudolph Robert , Blom Burgert , Adelhardt Mario , Sutter Jörg , Mebs Stefan , Haumann Michael , Meyer Karsten , Kaupp Martin , Driess Matthias
Published: September 2015

A complete series of biomimetic [2Fe‐2S] clusters, [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2] (3, LDep=CH[CMeN(2,6‐Et2C6H3)]2), [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2K] (4), [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2][Bu4N] (5, Bu=n‐butyl), and [(LDepFe)2(μ‐S)2K2] (6), could be synthesized and characterized. The all‐ferric [2Fe‐2S] cluster 3 is readily accessible through the reaction of [(LDepFe)2(μ‐H)2] (2) with elemental sulfur. The chemical reduction of 3 with one molar equivalent of elemental potassium affords the contact ion pair K+[2Fe‐2S]− (4) as a one‐dimensional coordination polymer, which in turn reacts with [Bu4N]Cl to afford the separate ion pair [Bu4N]+[2Fe‐2S]− (5). Further reduction of 4 with potassium furnishes the super‐reduced all‐ferrous [2Fe‐2S] cluster 6. Remarkably, complexes 4 and 5 are [2Fe‐2S] clusters with extensively delocalized Fe2+Fe3+ pairs as evidenced by 57Fe Mössbauer, X‐ray absorption and emission spectroscopy (XAS, XES) and in accordance with DFT calculations.
Potato peeling costreams as raw materials for biopolymer film preparation
Authors: Rommi Katariina , Rahikainen Jenni , Vartiainen Jari , Holopainen Ulla , Lahtinen Panu , Honkapää Kaisu , Lantto Raija
Published: September 2015

Potato peel mass is a costream produced in large quantities by the food industry. Its availability and the presence of starch (46%), pectin, and cellulose make it a potential renewable raw material for polymer products. In this study, biopolymer films were produced from potato peel mass and glycerol. High‐pressure homogenization (HPH) and HPH combined with heat treatment were investigated as pretreatment technologies before film casting. HPH‐treated potato peel mass yielded biopolymer films with similar barrier and mechanical properties as films prepared from pure potato starch, including complete impermeability to grease. Additional heat treatment of the peel mass enhanced starch gelatinization, resulting in improved barrier properties and smoother surface topography of the films. Films with similar appearance and quality were also obtained from starch‐free potato peel mass, indicating that potato fiber rich in pectin and cellulose is likewise a suitable material for biopolymer film preparation after HPH treatment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 42862.
Similar substrate specificity of cynomolgus monkey cytochrome P450 2C19 to reported human P450 2C counterpart enzymes by evaluation of 89 drug clearances
Authors: Hosaka Shinya , Murayama Norie , Satsukawa Masahiro , Uehara Shotaro , Shimizu Makiko , Iwasaki Kazuhide , Iwano Shunsuke , Uno Yasuhiro , Yamazaki Hiroshi
Published: September 2015

Cynomolgus monkeys are used widely in preclinical studies as non‐human primate species. The amino acid sequence of cynomolgus monkey cytochrome P450 (P450 or CYP) 2C19 is reportedly highly correlated to that of human CYP2C19 (92%) and CYP2C9 (93%). In the present study, 89 commercially available compounds were screened to find potential substrates for cynomolgus monkey CYP2C19. Of 89 drugs, 34 were metabolically depleted by cynomolgus monkey CYP2C19 with relatively high rates. Among them, 30 compounds have been reported as substrates or inhibitors of, either or both, human CYP2C19 and CYP2C9. Several compounds, including loratadine, showed high selectivity to cynomolgus monkey CYP2C19, and all of these have been reported as human CYP2C19 and/or CYP2C9 substrates. In addition, cynomolgus monkey CYP2C19 formed the same loratadine metabolite as human CYP2C19, descarboethoxyloratadine. These results suggest that cynomolgus monkey CYP2C19 is generally similar to human CYP2C19 and CYP2C9 in its substrate recognition functionality. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two star‐shaped tetranuclear Ru(II) complexes containing uncoordinated imidazole groups: synthesis, characterization, photophysical and pH sensing properties
Authors: Cheng Feixiang , Yu Shiwen , He Chixian , Ren Mingli , Yin Hongju
Published: September 2015

Tetrapodal ligands H4L1 and H4L2 containing imidazole groups have been synthesized by the reaction of 1,10‐phenanthroline‐5,6‐dione with 1,2,4,5‐tetrakis[(4‐formylphenoxy)methyl]benzene and 1,2,4,5‐tetrakis[(3‐formylphenoxy)methyl]benzene, respectively, in presence of NH4OAc. Two star‐shaped complexes [{Ru(bpy)2}4(μ4‐H4L1)](PF6)8 and [{Ru(bpy)2}4(μ4‐H4L2)](PF6)8 (bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine) have been prepared by refluxing Ru(bpy)2Cl2·2H2O and each ligand in ethylene glycol. The deprotonated complexes [{Ru(bpy)2}4(μ4‐L1)](PF6)4 and [{Ru(bpy)2}4(μ4‐L2)](PF6)4 have been obtained by the reaction of sodium methoxide with [{Ru(bpy)2}4(μ4‐H4L1)](PF6)8 and [{Ru(bpy)2}4(μ4‐H4L2)](PF6)8, respectively, in methanol. The pH effects on the UV–vis light absorption and emission spectra of both complexes have been studied, and ground‐ and excited‐state ionization constants of both complexes have been derived. The photophysical properties of both complexes are strongly dependent on the solution pH. They act as proton‐induced off–on–off luminescent sensors through two successive deprotonation processes of imidazole groups, with a maximum on–off ratio of 8 in buffer solution at room temperature. Theoretical calculations for the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest occupied molecular orbital (LOMO) orbitals of bridging ligand are also presented for plausible explanations of the fluorescence changes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human whole‐blood culture system for ex vivo characterization of designer‐cell function
Authors: Schukur Lina , Geering Barbara , Fussenegger Martin
Published: September 2015

Encapsulated designer cells implanted into mice are currently used to validate the efficacy of therapeutic gene networks for the diagnosis and treatment of various human diseases in preclinical research. Because many human conditions cannot be adequately replicated by animal models, complementary and alternative procedures to test future treatment strategies are required. Here we describe a novel approach utilizing an ex vivo human whole‐blood culture system to validate synthetic biology‐inspired designer cell‐based treatment strategies. The viability and functionality of transgenic mammalian designer cells co‐cultured with primary human immune cells were characterized. We demonstrated that transgenic mammalian designer cells required adequate insulation from the human blood microenvironment to maintain viability and functionality. The biomaterial alginate‐(poly‐l‐lysine)‐alginate used to encapsulate the transgenic designer cells did neither affect the viability of primary granulocytes and lymphocytes nor the functionality of lymphocytes. Additionally, alginate‐encapsulated transgenic designer cells remained responsive to the release of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) from the whole‐blood culture upon exposure to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). TNF diffused into the alginate capsules, bound to the specific TNF receptors on the transgenic designer cells’ surface and triggered the expression of the reporter gene SEAP (human placental secreted alkaline phosphatase) that was rewired to the TNF‐specific signaling cascade. Human whole‐blood culture systems can therefore be considered as valuable complementary assays to animal models for the validation of synthetic circuits in genetically modified mammalian cells and may speed up preclinical research in a world of personalized medicine. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 588–597. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of 1,4‐Dihydropyridine Derivatives by Electrospray Ionization Ion‐Trap Time‐of‐Flight Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wei Qiang , Yan Guoquan , Li Qianrong
Published: September 2015

1,4‐Dihydropyridines provide the principal structural components for calcium channel blockers, which are usually studied by expeditious qualitative and quantitative analyses in pharmaceutical research and development. In this work, through the use of high‐resolution electrospray ionization ion‐trap time‐of‐flight multistage tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐IT‐TOF/MSn
), the accurate masses and fragmentation pathways of protonated derivatives (1–12) of 1,4‐dihydropyridine derivatives are determined and rationalized. All protonated molecules are further fragmented by loss of the neutral groups 4‐R1H, 3‐C2H4
, 5‐C2H4
, R2OH, or CO, yielding three fragmentation pathways with two different fragment nuclei of pyridine or 1,4‐dihydropyridine. During the formation process of the pyridine nucleus, one pathway is that product ions at m/z 224 or 252 are the common diagnostic masses in most compounds; the other pathway is that the product ions are obtained by the loss of R2OH. The 1,4‐dihydropyridine nucleus in three compounds arises from double C2H4
elimination. Simultaneously, this study supplies abundant special fragment information, which potentially provides a new method for structural studies of 1,4‐dihydropyridine derivatives.
Three‐dimensional printing of human skeletal muscle cells: An interdisciplinary approach for studying biological systems
Authors: Bagley James R. , Galpin Andrew J.
Published: September 2015

Interdisciplinary exploration is vital to education in the 21st century. This manuscript outlines an innovative laboratory‐based teaching method that combines elements of biochemistry/molecular biology, kinesiology/health science, computer science, and manufacturing engineering to give students the ability to better conceptualize complex biological systems. Here, we utilize technology available at most universities to print three‐dimensional (3D) scale models of actual human muscle cells (myofibers) out of bioplastic materials. The same methodological approach could be applied to nearly any cell type or molecular structure. This advancement is significant because historically, two‐dimensional (2D) myocellular images have proven insufficient for detailed analysis of organelle organization and morphology. 3D imaging fills this void by providing accurate and quantifiable myofiber structural data. Manipulating tangible 3D models combats 2D limitation and gives students new perspectives and alternative learning experiences that may assist their understanding. This approach also exposes learners to 1) human muscle cell extraction and isolation, 2) targeted fluorescence labeling, 3) confocal microscopy, 4) image processing (via open‐source software), and 5) 3D printing bioplastic scale‐models (×500 larger than the actual cells). Creating these physical models may further student's interest in the invisible world of molecular and cellular biology. Furthermore, this interdisciplinary laboratory project gives instructors of all biological disciplines a new teaching tool to foster integrative thinking. © 2015 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 43:403–407, 2015.
Influence of verapamil on pharmacokinetics of pristimerin in rats
Authors: Gao Xiaodong , Zhang Yongjie , Wang Yongdong , Zhang Yijie , Wang Yixin , Liu Shuya , Gao Xiaohong
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of verapamil on the pharmacokinetics of pristimerin in rats. A sensitive and reliable LC‐MS/MS method was developed and applied for the determination of pristimerin in rat plasma. The pharmacokinetics of orally administered pristimerin with and without verapamil pretreatment was investigated. The results indicated that, when the rats were pretreated with verapamil, the peak concentration of pristimerin increased from 189.13 to 277.53 ng/mL (46.7%), and the AUC0–t increased by approximately 82.0%. Additionally, the effects of verapamil on the absorption and metabolic stability of pristimerin were investigated using the Caco‐2 cell transwell model and rat liver microsomes. A markedly higher transport of pristimerin across the Caco‐2 cells was observed in the basolateral‐to‐apical direction and was abrogated in the presence of the P‐gp inhibitor, verapamil. These results indicated that P‐gp might be involved in the absorption of pristimerin. Of note, the metabolic half‐life of pristimerin was prolonged by the pretreatment with verapamil. In conclusion, verapamil could affect the pharmacokinetics of pristimerin, and it might work through increasing the absorption of pristimerin by inhibiting P‐gp, or through slowing down the metabolism of pristimerin in the rat liver. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel biomarker pipeline to probe the oxidation sites and oxidation degrees of hemoglobin in bovine erythrocytes exposed to oxidative stress
Authors: Zong Wansong , Wang Xiaoning , Yang Chuanxi , Du Yonggang , Sun Weijun , Xu Zhenzhen
Published: September 2015

Research on biomarkers for protein oxidation might give insight into the mechanistic mode of oxidative stress. In the work present here, a novel pipeline was established to probe the oxidation mechanism of bovine hemoglobin (Hb) with its oxidation products serving as the biomarkers. Reactive oxygen species generated by irradiation were used to mimic oxidative stress conditions to oxidize Hb in bovine erythrocytes. After Hb extraction and digestion, oxidized peptides in the tryptic fragments were assigned by comparison with the extracted ion chromatography spectra of native peptide from the control sample. Subsequent tandem mass spectrometry analysis of these peptides proved that oxidation was limited to partially exposed amino acid residues (α‐Phe36, β‐Met1, β‐Trp14, for instance) in Hb. Quantitation analysis on these oxidized peptides showed that oxidation degrees of target sites had positive correlations with the extended oxidation dose and the oxidation processes were also controlled by residues types. Compared with the conventional protein carbonyl assay, the identified oxidized products were feasibility biomarkers for Hb oxidation, indicating that the proposed biomarker pipeline was suitable to provide specific and valid information for protein oxidation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Amphiphilic BODIPY‐Porphyrin Conjugate: Intense Two‐Photon Absorption and Rapid Cellular Uptake for Two‐Photon‐Induced Imaging and Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Tao , Lan Rongfeng , Gong Longlong , Wu Baoyan , Wang Yuzhi , Kwong Daniel W. J. , Wong Wai‐Kwok , Wong Ka‐Leung , Xing Da
Published: September 2015

The new amphiphilic BODPY‐porphyrin conjugate BZnPP and its precursor BZnPH were synthesised, and their linear and two‐photon photophysical properties, together with their cellular uptake and photo‐cytotoxicity, were studied. This amphiphilic conjugate consists of a hydrophobic BODIPY moiety and a hydrophilic tetra(ethylene glycol) chain bridging a cationic triphenylphosphonium group to an amphiphilic porphyrin ZnP through acetylide linkers at its meso positions. A large two‐photon absorption cross‐section (σ=1725 GM) and a high singlet oxygen quantum yield (0.52) were recorded. Intense linear‐ and two‐photon‐induced red emissions were also observed for both BZnPP and BZnPH. Further in vitro studies showed that BZnPP exhibited very efficient cellular uptake and strong photocytotoxic but weak dark cytotoxic properties towards human breast carcinoma MCF‐7 cells. In summary, the two‐photon‐induced emission and the potent photo‐cytotoxicity of BZnPP make it an efficacious dual‐purpose tumour‐imaging and photodynamic therapeutic agent in the tissue‐transparent spectral windows.
Structural Modification of Ni/γ‐Al2O3 with Boron for Enhanced Carbon Resistance during CO Methanation
Authors: Kambolis Anastasios , Ferri Davide , Lu Ye , Yannopoulos Spyros N. , Pokrant Simone , Rentsch Daniel , Kröcher Oliver
Published: September 2015

Carbon deposition during CO methanation from biomass‐derived gas is a significant challenge in terms of catalyst lifetime. It results from the severe reaction conditions imposed by the presence of unsaturated hydrocarbons in the gasified feedstock. This work investigated the structure of boron‐modified Ni/Al2O3 catalysts exhibiting enhanced carbon resistance. As a consequence of B promoting the growth of Ni crystallites, the structure of the B‐modified catalyst was demonstrated to be different at the nanoscale, especially after calcination. The modified catalyst possesses larger Ni particles with porous regions in which B is present. The absence of carbidic and amorphous carbon species, which are considered critical for catalyst deactivation in low‐temperature processes, confirms that B effectively prevents carbon diffusion into Ni, which thus enhances the durability of the catalyst for CO methanation. These results may reveal a strategy of wider significance for developing catalysts with improved stability.
Wet‐Spun Bioelectronic Fibers of Imbricated Enzymes and Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Microelectrodes
Authors: Mateo‐Mateo Cintia , Michardière Anne‐Sophie , Gounel Sébastien , Ly Isabelle , Rouhana Jad , Poulin Philippe , Mano Nicolas
Published: September 2015

The electrical connection of enzymes and microelectrodes is usually achieved through the direct deposition of biomolecules at the electrode surface. Optimization of this interface can be achieved by using conductive nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, by adding shuttles of electrons, and/or by tuning the geometry of the electrode. However, immobilized enzymes remain essentially located at the outer surface of the electrode, thereby limiting the current density of the devices. A single‐step, scalable wet‐spinning approach that allows the fabrication of microfibers into which enzymes and carbon nanotubes are imbricated in the core of the fiber is reported in this work. The efficiency of these bioelectronics fibers is tested in the enzymatic reduction of O2 and glucose oxidation. The presented microelectrodes exhibit a significantly enhanced activity compared to surface‐coated microelectrodes, while preserving all of the advantages of microelectrodes in terms of miniaturization and spatiotemporal resolution.
Ultrafast Spectroscopy of Hydroxy‐Substituted Azobenzenes in Water
Authors: Steinwand Sabrina , Halbritter Thomas , Rastädter Dominique , Ortiz‐Sánchez Juan Manuel , Burghardt Irene , Heckel Alexander , Wachtveitl Josef
Published: September 2015

Ultrafast UV/Vis pump/probe experiments on ortho‐, meta‐ and para‐hydroxy‐substituted azobenzenes (HO‐ABs), as well as for sulfasalazine, an AB‐based drug, were performed in aqueous solution. For meta‐HO‐AB, AB‐like isomerisation behaviour can be observed, whereas, for ortho‐HO‐AB, fast proton transfer occurs, resulting in an excited keto species. For para‐HO‐AB, considerable keto/enol tautomerism proceeds in the ground state, so after excitation the trans‐keto species isomerises into the cis form. Aided by TD‐DFT calculations, insight is provided into different deactivation pathways for HO‐AB, and reveals the role of hydroxy groups in the photochemistry of ABs, as well as their acetylation regarding sulfasalazine. Hydroxy groups are position‐specific substituents for AB, which allow tuning of the timescale of thermal relaxation, as well as the amount and contribution of the keto species to photochemical processes.
Spacer‐Modulated Differentiation Between Self‐Assembly and Folding Pathways for Bichromophoric Merocyanine Dyes
Authors: Zitzler‐Kunkel André , Kirchner Eva , Bialas David , Simon Christian , Würthner Frank
Published: September 2015

We have synthesized a large series of bis(merocyanine) dyes with varying spacer unit and investigated in detail their self‐organization behavior by concentration‐ as well as solvent‐dependent UV/Vis spectroscopy. Our in‐depth studies have shown that the self‐organization of the present bis(merocyanine) dyes is subtly influenced by the nature of the spacer unit. The utilization of rigid spacers results in the formation of self‐associated bimolecular complexes with high binding strength, while flexible spacers drive the respective bichromophoric dyes to intramolecular folding. Our thorough investigations on the impact of alkyl spacer chain length on the folding tendency of the present series of bis(merocyanine) dyes revealed a biphasic behavior, that is, a steep increase of the folding tendency for the dyes containing C4 to C7 chains and then a gentle decrease for dyes with longer alkyl spacer chains as evidenced by free energy (ΔG) values for the folding of these dyes. Furthermore, analyses of aggregates’ optical properties based on exciton theory as well as quantum chemical calculations suggest a bimolecular aggregate structure for the dye possessing a rigid spacer and a rotationally twisted pleated structure for the bis(merocyanine) dyes having spacer units with less than seven carbon atoms, while the application of longer alkyl chain linkers (≥C7) provides enough flexibility to orient the chromophores in electrostatically most favored antiparallel fashion.
Metal‐Induced Thiophene Ring Opening and CC Bond Formation To Produce Unique Hexa‐1,3,5‐trienediyl‐Coupled Non‐Innocent Ligand Chelates
Authors: Ehret Fabian , Bubrin Martina , Záliš Stanislav , Priego José Luis , Jiménez‐Aparicio Reyes , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: September 2015

Ring opening of thiophenes containing an azo function in 2‐position and subsequent dimerization through CC coupling were observed on reaction with [Ru(acac)2(CH3CN)2] (acac=acetylacetonate) to produce two 1,3,5‐hexatriene‐linked redox‐active azothiocarbonyl chelate systems. Interaction of the non‐innocent chelate ligands and of the metals at a nanoscale distance of 1.45 nm via the conjugated hexatriene bridge was studied by magnetic and electron spectroscopic measurements in conjunction with DFT calculations, revealing four‐center magnetic interactions of this unique setting and weak intervalence coupling after reduction.
Standort‐ und Netzwerkplanung für modulare Containeranlagen in der Prozessindustrie
Authors: Clausen Uwe , Langkau Sven , Goedicke Ina , Lier Stefan
Published: September 2015

Der Einsatz mobiler Produktionseinheiten ermöglicht die Produktion in Kunden‐ oder Rohstoffnähe. In Abhängigkeit von den Bedarfen der einzelnen Kunden und deren geografischer Verteilung sind die Standorte zu ermitteln, an denen sich das Aufstellen und der Betrieb der mobilen Produktionseinheiten unter wirtschaftlichen und qualitativen Bewertungskriterien lohnt. Es wird ein entsprechendes Verfahren zur Entwicklung modularer Produktionsnetzwerke vorgestellt und dessen Anwendung anhand einer Fallstudie validiert.
How do you write and present research well? 2 –Replace 007 with an explicit agent
Authors: Patience Paul A. , Patience Gregory S. , Boffito Daria C.
Published: September 2015

Passive voice, active voice, agent and patient, subject and object: the agent acts on the patient in the active voice, which makes it clearer. Select the best active sentence.[11]

We measured the pressure periodically.

The pressure was measured periodically.

It was shown that the pressure varied periodically.

Pressure varied periodically.
Mixing performance comparison of milliscale continuous high‐shear mixers
Authors: Tamminen Jussi , Koiranen Tuomas
Published: September 2015

Mixing performance of two continuous flow millilitre‐scale reactors (volumes 9.5 mL and 2.5 mL) equipped with rotor‐stator mixers was studied. Cumulative residence time distributions (RTD) were determined experimentally using a step response method. Distributions were measured for both reactors by varying impeller speed and feed flow rate. The mixing effect was determined by measured RTDs. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were used to verify that the residence time distribution in the measurement outlet agreed with the outlet flow. The mixing power of both reactors was determined using a calorimetric method. The reactor inlet flow rate was found to affect mixing performance at 1–13 s residence times but the effect of impeller speed could not be noted. Both milliscale reactors are close to an ideal continuous stirred‐tank reactor (CSTR) at the studied impeller speed and flow rate ranges. The specific interfacial area was found to depend on the reactor inlet flow rate at constant impeller speed for the case of copper solvent extraction.
Energy‐Dispersive X‐Ray Fluorescence Spectrometric Determination of Phosphate in Water Samples via a 12‐Molybdophosphate–Crystal Violet Complex
Authors: Pytlakowska Katarzyna
Published: September 2015

A simple and eco‐friendly procedure for determining total phosphate content in water has been developed by combining a miniaturized ion‐associated complex‐based preconcentration method with energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF). The method is based on indirect determination of phosphorus using molybdenum present in the ion‐associated complex formed by 12‐molybdophosphate and crystal violet. Since phosphorus is determined indirectly, via fluorescent radiation of molybdenum, the difficulties stemming from low fluorescence yield and low energy of phosphorus radiation can be successfully overcome. A good mole ratio of phosphorus to molybdenum (1:12) and a sensitive Kα line of molybdenum make it possible to determine low phosphorus concentrations. Under optimized conditions, a good linearity (up to 2 μg mL−1 of phosphorus, r = 0.9991), and a detection limit of 1.3 ng mL−1 were achieved. The total relative standard deviation (RSD) for EDXRF determination of phosphorus, following precipitation of the ion‐associated complex and its dissolution in a microdrop of 1‐hexanol was 2.6%. The enrichment factor was 167. The developed method was used to determine total phosphate content in surface waters. The reliability of the proposed methodology was tested with the use of samples spiked with a known concentration of the determined element and by comparative inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry. The recovery (in the range of 93.5–97%) was satisfactory and indicates usefulness of the developed procedure.
Light Detection and Ranging for Implementing Water‐Oriented Forest Management in a Semiarid Sub‐Catchment (Valencia, Spain)
Authors: Manrique‐Alba Angela , del Campo Antonio D. , Gonzalez‐Sanchis María
Published: September 2015

Diminishing rainfall interception in semiarid forests may offset reductions of available water either for ecosystem or human needs under the climate change predictions. Forest managers should be aware of this issue and develop specific hydrology‐oriented silvicultural treatments. In this sense, relating forest–water processes to detailed forest structure information, as provided by light detection and ranging (LiDAR), is essential. In this study, low‐density LiDAR data are used to characterize forest structure and throughfall water. First, LiDAR was validated as an estimator of the forest structure variables (canopy cover, canopy height, and leaf area index) in a semiarid forest, with acceptable root mean square errors (6.2% cover, 0.4 m2 m−2 LAI and 0.7 m height). Secondly, the LiDAR‐derived variables were related to the measured throughfall by means of simple and multiple regression models. The best model included canopy cover and stand height, and improved upon previous results based on field measures from r2 = 0.76–0.95. Finally, the model was used to estimate the throughfall in the whole sub‐catchment, where very low or low throughfall (<74%) was identified in 47.5% of the area. Low‐density LiDAR was proved to be useful in guiding hydrology‐oriented silviculture to increase the amount of throughfall water.
Molecular cytopathology for thyroid nodules: A review of methodology and test performance
Authors: Nishino Michiya
Published: September 2015

Advances in the molecular characterization of thyroid cancers have fueled the development of genetic and gene expression‐based tests for thyroid fine‐needle aspirations. Collectively, these tests are designed to improve the diagnostic certainty of thyroid cytology. This review summarizes the early published experience with the commercially available versions of these tests: the Afirma Gene Expression Classifier, ThyGenX (formerly miRInform)/ThyraMIR, and ThyroSeq. Key differences in testing approaches and issues regarding test performance and interpretation are also discussed. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2016;124:14–27. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Investigation of the Qx–Qy Equilibrium in a Metal‐Free Phthalocyanine
Authors: Baeten Yannick , Fron Eduard , Ruzié Christian , Geerts Yves Henri , Van Der Auweraer Mark
Published: September 2015

Phthalocyanines (Pcs) have attracted a lot of interest as small molecules for organic electronics. However, some excited‐state properties of metal‐free phthalocyanines, as for example, the dynamics of the transition between the nondegenerate Qx and Qy states in a metal‐free phthalocyanine, have not been fully established. This effect results in a blue‐shifted shoulder with low intensity in the Pc fluorescence spectrum. This shoulder was suggested to be related to emission from the more energetic Qy state. By using ultrafast femtosecond transient absorption, we have found a clear equilibrium between the Qx and Qy state of metal‐free phthalocyanines in solution.
On the Origin of Water Flow through Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Su Jiaye , Yang Keda
Published: September 2015

The transport of water molecules through carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is of primary importance for understanding water‐mediated biological activities as well as for the design of novel nanoporous materials. Herein, we analyze the water flow through CNTs by using molecular dynamics simulations with the hope of finding basic parameters determining the flow value. Of particular interest is that a simple equation as a function of water diffusion, occupancy and CNT size, can well describe the water flow through CNTs with different sizes. Specifically, both the simulation and equation flow exhibit power law relations with the CNT diameter and length, where the two exponents are close to each other. The water occupancy and translocation time also demonstrate interesting relations with the CNT size. The water dipole orientations and density profiles are also sensitive to the change of CNT size. These results greatly enhance our knowledge on the nature of water flow through CNTs and are helpful in predicting the water flow of CNTs up to the experimental length scale.
Electroviscous Effects in Ceramic Nanofiltration Membranes
Authors: Farsi Ali , Boffa Vittorio , Christensen Morten Lykkegaard
Published: September 2015

Membrane permeability and salt rejection of a γ‐alumina nanofiltration membrane were studied and modeled for different salt solutions. Salt rejection was predicted by using the Donnan‐steric pore model, in which the extended Nernst–Planck equation was applied to predict ion transport through the pores. The solvent flux was modeled by using the Hagen–Poiseuille equation by introducing electroviscosity instead of bulk viscosity. γ‐Alumina particles were used for ζ‐potential measurements. The ζ‐potential measurements show that monovalent ions did not adsorb on the γ‐alumina surface, whereas divalent ions were highly adsorbed. Thus, for divalent ions, the model was modified, owing to pore shrinkage caused by ion adsorption. The ζ‐potential lowered the membrane permeability, especially for membranes with a pore radius lower than 3 nm, a ζ‐potential higher than 20 mV, and an ionic strength lower than 0.01 m. The rejection model showed that, for a pore radius lower than 3 nm and for solutions with ionic strengths lower than 0.01 m, there is an optimum ζ‐potential for rejection, because of the concurrent effects of electromigration and convection. Hence, the model can be used as a prediction tool to optimize membrane perm‐selectivity by designing a specific pore size and surface charge for application at specific ionic strengths and pH levels.
Drug‐induced progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: Lessons learned from contrasting natalizumab and rituximab
Authors: Vermeer NS , Straus SMJM , Mantel‐Teeuwisse AK , Hidalgo‐Simon A , Egberts ACG , Leufkens HGM , De Bruin ML
Published: September 2015

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) has been identified as a serious adverse drug reaction (ADR) of several immunomodulatory biologicals. In this study, we contrasted the reporting patterns of PML for two biologicals for which the risk was identified at different points in their lifecycle: natalizumab (before reapproval) and rituximab (nine years postapproval). We found that, apart from the differences in clinical characteristics (age, gender, indication, time to event, fatality), which reflect the diversity in context of use, PML reports for natalizumab were more complete and were received sooner after occurrence. This study serves as an important reminder that spontaneous reports should only be used with great caution to quantify and compare safety profiles across products over time. The observed variability in reporting patterns and heterogeneity of PML cases presents challenges to such comparisons. Lumping uncharacterized PML reports together without taking these differences into account may result in biased comparisons and flawed conclusions about differential safety.