bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Development of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIFs) Derived Porous Carbon Based Materials as Electrocatalysts
Authors: Cheng Ningyan , Ren Long , Xu Xun , Du Yi , Dou Shi Xue
Published: July 2018

Development of effective, stable, and economic electrocatalysts is critical for further implementation of fuel cells, water electrolysis, and metal–air batteries in clean energy conversion technologies. As a subfamily of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) possess the characteristics of both MOFs and zeolites, showing highly porous structures, large surface area, and open catalytic active sites. This review presents materials design strategies for constructing improved electrocatalysts based on ZIF precursors/templates, with special emphasis on the varieties of derivatives, controllable building of active sites, the construction of macroscopic structure, and the favored electrocatalytic reactions based on these materials. These ZIF‐derived N‐doped carbon‐based composites or compounds have exhibited remarkable activity and stability for a broad electrocatalysis application, displaying great potential to replace noble‐metal‐based catalysts. The challenges and perspectives regarding ZIF‐derived electrocatalysts are also discussed for better development of ZIF‐derived electrocatalysts.
Temporal patterns of chimpanzee loud calls in the Issa Valley, Tanzania: Evidence of nocturnal acoustic behavior in wild chimpanzees
Authors: Piel Alex K.
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Much is known about chimpanzee diurnal call patterns, but far less about night‐time vocal behavior. I deployed a passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) system to assess 24‐hr temporal acoustic activity of wild, unhabituated chimpanzees that live in a woodland mosaic habitat similar to hominin landscapes from the Plio‐Pleistocene. A primary aim was to apply findings to our broader understanding to chimpanzee 24‐hr activity patterns, and what implications this may have for reconstructing hominin adaptations to similarly hot, dry, and open landscapes. I also tested whether chimpanzees conform to the acoustic adaptation hypothesis, and produce loud calls during periods of optimal sound transmission.

Methods

Nine custom‐made solar‐powered acoustic transmission units (SPATUs) recorded continuously for 250 days over 11 months in the Issa Valley, western Tanzania. I complemented acoustic data with environmental data from weather stations as well as behavioral data collected on chimpanzee nest group sizes to assess the relationship between party size and calling.

Results

Chimpanzees called at all hours of the day and night in both wet and dry seasons, and night and day calls exhibited parallel rates/month, although twilight calls were produced significantly more in the dry, compared to the wet season. Calls were more likely during warmer temperatures and lower humidity. Call rate was positively associated with (nest) party size and counter‐calls exhibited no temporal variation in their origins (similar vs. adjacent valleys).

Conclusions

Chimpanzees were acoustically active throughout the 24‐hr cycle, although at low rates compared to diurnal activity, revealing night‐time activity in an ape otherwise described as diurnal. Chimpanzee loud calls partially, and weakly, conformed to the acoustic adaptation hypothesis and likely responded to social, rather than environmental factors. Call rates accurately reflect grouping patterns and PAM is demonstrated to be an effective means of remotely assessing activity, especially at times and from places that are difficult to access for researchers.
Exploration of the Synthetic Potential of Electrophilic Trifluoromethylthiolating and Difluoromethylthiolating Reagents
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Yang Jin‐Dong , Zheng Hanliang , Xue Xiao‐Song , Mayr Herbert , Cheng Jin‐Pei
Published: July 2018

The electrophilicity parameters (E) of some trifluoromethylthiolating and difluoromethylthiolating reagents were determined by following the kinetics of their reactions with a series of enamines and carbanions with known nucleophilicity parameters (N, sN), using the linear free‐energy relationship log k2=sN(N+E). The electrophilic reactivities of these reagents cover a range of 17 orders of magnitude, with Shen and Lu's reagent 1 a being the most reactive and Billard's reagent 1 h being the least reactive electrophile. While the observed electrophilic reactivities (E) of the amido‐derived trifluoromethylthiolating reagents correlate well with the calculated Gibbs energies for heterolytic cleavage of the X−SCF3 bonds (Tt+DA), the cumol‐derived reagents 1 f and 1 g are more reactive than expected from the thermodynamics of the O−S cleavage. The E parameters of the tri/difluoromethylthiolating reagents derived in this work provide an ordering principle for their use in synthesis.
Design, Synthesis and Antibacterial Evaluation of 1‐[(1R,2S)‐2‐Fluorocyclopropyl]ciprofloxacin‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5(4H)‐thione Hybrids
Authors: Gao Yang , Na Lu‐Xin , Xu Zhi , Zhang Shu , Wang A‐Peng , Lü Kai , Guo Hui‐Yuan , Liu Ming‐Liang
Published: July 2018

A new class of 1‐[(1R,2S)‐2‐fluorocyclopropyl]ciprofloxacin (CPFX)‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5(4H)‐thione hybrids 6a – 6o was designed, synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro antibacterial activities against a panel of clinically important drug‐sensitive and drug‐resistant Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative pathogens. Our results revealed that all hybrids 6a – 6o had great potency against the tested strains, especially Gram‐negative pathogens. The synthesized hybrids were more potent than the parent 1‐[(1R,2S)‐2‐fluorocyclopropyl]CPFX (1) and comparable to CPFX and levofloxacin against the majority of the tested pathogens, worth to be further investigated.
An in Vitro–Selected DNAzyme Mutant Highly Specific for Na+ under Slightly Acidic Conditions
Authors: Ma Lingzi , Liu Juewen
Published: July 2018

Sodium is one of the most common metal ions in biology; however, DNA‐based sodium probes have only been reported recently. A Na+‐specific RNA‐cleaving DNAzyme named NaA43 is active with Na+ alone. In this work, we were using Co(NH3)63+ as the intended metal cofactor for in vitro selection, but obtained a mutant of the NaA43 DNAzyme. The mutant was named NaH1, and differs from NaA43 by only two nucleotides. NaA43 has an optimal pH of 7.0, whereas the optimal pH for NaH1 is 6.0. This difference might be due to our selection having been performed at pH 6.0. NaH1 also displays an excellent selectivity for sodium relative to other competing monovalent ions, as well as a fast catalytic rate of (0.11±0.01) min−1 with 50 mm Na+. At low Na+ concentrations, the selected DNAzyme exhibited a higher cleavage rate than NaA43 and thus a tighter apparent Kd of (12.0±1.6) mm Na+. Furthermore, the NaH1 DNAzyme was engineered into a fluorescent Na+ biosensor by attaching a fluorophore/quencher pair to the DNAzyme with a detection limit of 223 μm Na+. Preliminary work on detection of Na+ in serum was demonstrated as well. This study provides a useful mutant that works in a slightly acidic environment, which might be useful for sensing Na+ in acidic in vivo environments.
Gastrointestinal tract metastasis of mandibular diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Yucesoy Turker , Kilic Erdem , Ocak Hakan , Alkan Alper , Deniz Kemal
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Not only diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma is a malignancy, but also is initially and orally diagnosed in early stages. However, it could be misdiagnosed with other oral pathologies. However yet, early diagnosis is still crucial for the prognosis, morbidity, and mortality in such cases. Additionally, whole‐body scanning with positron emission tomography/computed tomography should be performed for diagnosis and treatment process.
Highly Selective SSZ‐13 Zeolite Hollow Fiber Membranes by Ultraviolet Activation at Near‐Ambient Temperature
Authors: Yang Shaowei , Kwon Yeon Hye , Koh Dong‐Yeun , Min Byunghyun , Liu Yujun , Nair Sankar
Published: July 2018

Zeolitic membranes synthesized using organic structure‐directing agents (SDAs) require an activation step to remove the SDA and open their porosity. Activation is typically achieved by high‐temperature (>673 K) calcination. This process has multiple disadvantages, including coke formation due to incomplete removal of the SDA as well as the formation of cracks and other defects due to differential thermal expansion of the membrane layer and the underlying support material. Here we report that high‐performance hollow fiber membranes of the small‐pore (0.38 nm) zeolite SSZ‐13 can be produced via UV irradiation to decompose and remove the SDA. Remarkably, UV irradiation allowed complete removal of the bulky SDA (trimethyladamantylammonium hydroxide) from the pores at near‐ambient conditions, whereas membranes activated by calcination exhibited severe cracking. The UV‐activated SSZ‐13 membranes showed excellent H2/C3H8 and CO2/CH4 mixture selectivities (up to 810 and 110 whereas the conventionally activated membranes showed poor selectivity (<5). The combined demonstration of hollow fiber membrane synthesis and low‐temperature membrane activation of small‐pore zeolite membranes is a significant step in the effort to create reliable, scalable, and low‐cost fabrication processes for zeolite membranes for gas separations.
Macroalgal feedbacks and substrate properties maintain a coral reef regime shift
Authors: Johns Kerryn A. , Emslie Michael J. , Hoey Andrew S. , Osborne Kate , Jonker Michelle J. , Cheal Alistair J.
Published: July 2018

Coral reefs are among the world's most diverse and productive ecosystems, yet they are also one of the most threatened. The combined effects of local human activities and climate change have led to corals being replaced by macroalgae in various tropical settings, lessening the ecological, social, and economic value of these reefs. Once established, macroalgal regimes are maintained by a range of physical, chemical, and biological feedback mechanisms that suppress the settlement, survival, growth, and hence recovery of coral populations. Our understanding of these feedbacks has come largely from small‐scale experimental studies, but their relative importance in sustaining a regime shift has rarely been examined in situ. We investigated the role of macroalgae in limiting coral recovery on an inshore reef on Australia's Great Barrier Reef that shifted to macroalgal dominance in 2001. Coral recruitment on terracotta tiles in habitats with low cover of macroalgae at the regime‐shifted reef and at comparable habitats at an adjacent coral‐dominated reef was similar, suggesting that neither larval supply nor reef‐wide “avoidance” by coral larvae was contributing to the lack of coral recovery at the regime‐shifted reef. However, within the regime‐shifted reef, recruitment of corals on tiles, and their survival in the first two months post‐settlement, was substantially lower in habitats characterized by dense beds of the brown macroalga Lobophora than in habitats just meters away that were relatively free of macroalgae. Despite the negative effects of Lobophora on recruitment and early recruit survival, there was no effect of Lobophora on the persistence of juvenile corals (1–50 mm diameter). Juvenile coral persistence in beds of Lobophora (50%) was comparable to that in neighboring habitats free of Lobophora (60%) over nine months. Rather, the persistence of juvenile corals was lowest (10%) in unconsolidated rubble habitat, where photographs of fixed quadrats showed that, over nine months, rubble substrate had been redistributed. Our results highlight two bottlenecks to coral recovery; inhibition of coral recruitment and recruit survival by macroalgae, and reduced juvenile coral persistence in patches of loose rubble substrate. Importantly, these processes appear to be habitat‐specific and are unlikely to constrain coral recovery at a reef‐wide scale.
Using metabolic and thermal ecology to predict temperature dependent ecosystem activity: a test with prairie ants
Authors: Prather Rebecca M. , Roeder Karl A. , Sanders Nathan J. , Kaspari Michael
Published: July 2018

As ecosystems warm, ectotherm consumer activity should also change. Here we use principles from metabolic and thermal ecology to explore how seasonal and diel temperature change shapes a prairie ant community's foraging rate and its demand for two fundamental resources: salt and sugar. From April through October 2016 we ran transects of vials filled with solutions of 0.5% NaCl and 1% sucrose. We first confirm a basic prediction rarely tested: the discovery rate of both food resources accelerated with soil temperature, but this increase was typically capped at midday due to extreme surface temperatures. We then tested the novel prediction that sodium demand accelerates with temperature, premised on a key thermal difference between sugar and sodium: sugar is stored in cells, while salt is pumped out of cells proportional to metabolic rate, and hence temperature. We found strong support for the resulting prediction that recruitment to NaCl baits accelerates with temperature more steeply than recruitment to 1% sucrose baits. A follow up experiment in 2017 verified that temperature‐dependent recruitment to sucrose concentrations of 20% (mimicking rich extrafloral nectaries), while noisy, was still only half as temperature dependent as recruitment recorded for 0.5% NaCl. These results demonstrate how ecosystem warming accelerates then curtails the work done by a community of ectotherms, and how the demand and use of fundamental nutrients can be differentially temperature dependent.
Functional groups differ in trait means, but not in trait plasticity to species richness in local grassland communities
Authors: Roscher Christiane , Schumacher Jens , Lipowsky Annett , Gubsch Marlén , Weigelt Alexandra , Schmid Bernhard , Buchmann Nina , Schulze Ernst‐Detlef
Published: July 2018

Despite growing interest in incorporating intraspecific variation of functional traits in community‐level studies, it remains unclear whether species classified into functional groups based on interspecific trait differences are similar regarding their variation in trait expression in response to varying plant diversity and composition in local communities. In a large biodiversity experiment (Jena Experiment) designed on a trait‐based a priori definition of functional groups (grasses, legumes, small herbs, tall herbs), we studied means, extent of variation (coefficient of variation across communities) and plasticity to increased plant diversity (slopes over a logarithmic species richness ranging from 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 to 60 species) for nine functional traits. Species means and extent of variation in traits related to nitrogen (N) acquisition and N use differed among functional groups and were more similar in phylogenetically closely related species than expected by chance. Species in the same functional group showed a weak phylogenetic signal and varied widely in means and extent of variation in traits related to shoot architecture and to a smaller extent in leaf traits related to carbon acquisition. This indicated that functional groups were less distinguishable in light than in nitrogen acquisition strategies. The direction and degree of trait plasticity to increasing species richness did not show a phylogenetic signal and were not different among functional groups, but varied largely among species within functional groups. Correlation structures in trait means, extent of trait variation and trait plasticity revealed functional tradeoffs in the acquisition of nitrogen and light across species. While correlations between trait means and extent of trait variation varied from trait to trait (positive, negative or unrelated), trait means and trait plasticity were mostly unrelated. Our results suggest that the concept of functional groups is viable, but context‐specific trait measurements are required to improve our understanding about the functional significance of intraspecific trait variation and interspecific trait differences in local plant communities.
Three‐Stage Crystallization: an Effective Way to Reduce the Crystal Size and Improve the Catalytic Performance of SAPO‐34 for MTO
Authors: Luo Mingjian , Wang Dakang , Fu Yadong , Mao Guoliang , Wang Baohui
Published: July 2018

SAPO‐34 crystals were prepared via a high‐low‐high temperature crystallization procedure with triethylamine (TEA) as template. Three‐stage crystallization is beneficial for the nucleation while the growth of grains is inhibited and small size crystals are formed. The lifetime of three‐stage samples was prolonged for the conversion of methanol to light olefins (MTO).
A Straightforward Sequential Approach for the Enantioselective Synthesis of Optically Active α‐Arylmethanol‐1,2,3‐Triazoles
Authors: Andrade Floyd C. D. , Pugnal Lucas V. B. L. , Betim Hugo L. I. , Vani Jéssica F. , Zukerman‐Schpector Julio , Schwab Ricardo S.
Published: July 2018

Herein we describe a compelling sequential methodology for obtaining optically active α‐arylmethanols‐1,2,3‐triazoles. The approach is based on the enantioselective alkynylation of aldehydes followed by a one‐pot two‐step desilylation/CuI‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition (CuAAC), providing the corresponding products with excellent yields and high levels of enantioselectivity. Furthermore, the click chemistry can be performed without affecting the enantiomeric excess. The application of the reaction has been demonstrated in the synthesis of a 1,2,3‐triazole analog of antihistaminic and anticholinergic drug (R)‐orphenadrine.
Wada asymmetry in patients with drug‐resistant mesial temporal lobe epilepsy: Implications for postoperative neuropsychological outcomes
Authors: Sever Ryan W. , Vivas Andrew C. , Vale Fernando L. , Schoenberg Mike R.
Published: July 2018

Objective

This study reports neuropsychological outcomes based on preoperative Wada testing in patients with drug‐resistant mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE).

Methods

Patient records were retrospectively reviewed as part of a larger database. Patients with a diagnosis of TLE based on seizure semiology and long‐term surface video–electroencephalography (EEG) were identified. These patients underwent preoperative and postoperative testing including advanced imaging (magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), Wada testing, and neuropsychological assessment. Decrements in neuropsychological function were noted in comparison of pre‐ and postoperative studies. Patients had regular follow‐up in the multidisciplinary epilepsy clinic to assess seizure outcomes. All participants had Engel class I/II outcome following selective amygdalohippocampectomy (AH) via the inferior temporal gyrus (ITG) approach.

Results

Forty‐eight patients with electrographic and clinical semiology consistent with unilateral mTLE were identified. Left mTLE was identified in 28 patients (58.3%), whereas 20 patients (41.7%) had right mTLE. Language‐dominant hemisphere resections were performed on 23 patients (47.9%) (all left‐sided surgery), whereas 25 (52.1%) had language nondominant resection (all right‐sided and five left‐sided surgery). Twenty‐two participants (45.8%) showed no Wada memory asymmetry (No‐WMA), whereas 26 (54.2%) exhibited Wada memory asymmetry (WMA). Postoperatively, analysis of variance (ANOVA) found that the No‐WMA group exhibited a decline in verbal memory, but average scores on measures of nonverbal reasoning, general intelligence, and mood improved. Alternatively, patients with WMA did not show declines in memory postoperatively, and also exhibited improved nonverbal reasoning and general intelligence. Neither group exhibited reliable decline in verbal fluency or visual confrontation naming.

Significance

Wada procedures for predicting surgical outcome from elective temporal surgery have been criticized and remain an area of active debate. However, decades of data across multiple epilepsy centers have demonstrated the value of Wada for reducing unanticipated neuropsychological adverse effects of surgical treatment. These data show that no Wada memory asymmetry increases the risk for neuropsychological decline following ITG approach for selective AH for drug‐resistant mTLE.
Changes in patterns of neural activity underlie a time‐dependent transformation of memory in rats and humans
Authors: Sekeres Melanie J. , Winocur Gordon , Moscovitch Morris , Anderson John A. E. , Pishdadian Sara , Martin Wojtowicz J. , St‐Laurent Marie , McAndrews Mary Pat , Grady Cheryl L.
Published: July 2018

The dynamic process of memory consolidation involves a reorganization of brain regions that support a memory trace over time, but exactly how the network reorganizes as the memory changes remains unclear. We present novel converging evidence from studies of animals (rats) and humans for the time‐dependent reorganization and transformation of different types of memory as measured both by behavior and brain activation. We find that context‐specific memories in rats, and naturalistic episodic memories in humans, lose precision over time and activity in the hippocampus decreases. If, however, the retrieved memories retain contextual or perceptual detail, the hippocampus is engaged similarly at recent and remote timepoints. As the interval between the timepoint increases, the medial prefrontal cortex is engaged increasingly during memory retrieval, regardless of the context or the amount of retrieved detail. Moreover, these hippocampal‐frontal shifts are accompanied by corresponding changes in a network of cortical structures mediating perceptually‐detailed as well as less precise, schematic memories. These findings provide cross‐species evidence for the crucial interplay between hippocampus and neocortex that reflects changes in memory representation over time and underlies systems consolidation.
Are there major differences in the attitudes and service quality of standard and seasonal employees? An empirical examination and implications for practice
Authors: Guillaume Paul , Sullivan Sherry E. , Wolff Hans‐Georg , Forret Monica
Published: July 2018

Despite the increased use of seasonal employees by organizations, few studies have been completed on the attitudes and service quality of seasonal office workers. Using Lautsch's classification model, we analyzed the organizational context in which the standard and seasonal workers in this study were employed. Hypotheses were developed based upon the organizational analysis and social exchange theory. Results from archival data obtained from a web‐based organizational survey of 205 clerical and professional workers indicated contrary to expectations, standard and seasonal employees did not significantly differ in terms of perceptions of overall job conditions, perceived organizational support (POS), or job engagement. However, seasonal employees did report significantly fewer opportunities to work on challenging tasks, less comfortable physical working conditions, and less job security than the standard workers. As predicted, standard employees reported significantly higher levels of service quality performance than seasonal employees. Additionally, job engagement mediated the relationship between POS and service quality for both the standard and seasonal employees. Implications for managing seasonal employees are discussed.
A comparison between radial basis function (RBF) and adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to model the free convection in an open round cavity
Authors: Akbari E. , Karami A. , Ashjaee M.
Published: July 2018

This study demonstrates the capability of radial basis function (RBF) and adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to model and predict the free convection heat transfer in an open round cavity. In fact, the effects of the Rayleigh number (Ra) and ratio of the nonconductor barrier distance from the bottom of the cavity to the cavity diameter (H/D), on the free convection in the cavity, are modeled via the RBF and ANFIS models. To start modeling, sufficient data are gathered. Here, data are experimentally generated using a Mach‐Zehnder interferometer. In the next step, the RBF and ANFIS models are trained. According to the results, there is an optimum ratio (H/D), in which the heat transfer is maximum. This maximum value increases by increasing the Rayleigh number (Ra). Moreover, based on the results obtained by the RBF and ANFIS, the predicted results for the convection heat transfer are in good agreement with similar ones obtained experimentally. The mean relative errors of the training, testing, and checking data for the RBF model were found as 0.1348%, 1.1972%, and 2.4967%, respectively. Moreover, for the ANFIS model, the error values were 0.0731%, 0.9110%, and 1.9144%, which shows that RBF and ANFIS can predict the results precisely.
Risk of Kaposi sarcoma after solid organ transplantation in the United States
Authors: Cahoon Elizabeth K. , Linet Martha S. , Clarke Christina A. , Pawlish Karen S. , Engels Eric A. , Pfeiffer Ruth M.
Published: July 2018

Due to treatment with immunosuppressive medications, solid organ transplant recipients have elevated risk for Kaposi sarcoma (KS), which is caused by human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8). Other risk factors for KS are poorly understood. We linked the United States solid organ transplant registry with 17 population‐based cancer registries to ascertain KS incidence among 244,964 transplant recipients from 1987–2014. To compare incidence rates of KS according to patient and transplant characteristics, we calculated incidence rate ratios (IRRs) using Poisson regression. To compare associations of KS with other skin cancers occurring before or within 12 months of KS diagnosis, we computed odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using conditional logistic regression. All statistical tests were two‐sided. We identified 163 KS cases during follow‐up. Among transplant recipients, we found significantly increased risk of KS associated with male sex (IRR = 1.87; 95%CI:1.32,2.71), nonwhite race (IRR = 2.67; 95%CI:1.92,3.72), non‐US citizenship (IRR = 2.10; 95%CI:1.19,3.47), lung transplant (IRR = 2.22; 95%CI:1.03,4.24, vs. kidney), and older age at transplant. KS risk decreased significantly with time since transplant and recent calendar year, however, no specific induction or maintenance medication was associated with KS. KS incidence was not significantly associated with ambient ultraviolet radiation (IRR = 1.32 95%CI:0.87,2.02, tertile 3 vs. 1). KS incidence has decreased in recent calendar years. In a cross‐sectional sample, we found cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma was associated with KS (OR = 4.83; 95%CI:1.30,14.69). KS risk factors included those potentially associated with HHV8 infection and increased immunosuppression. Our findings suggest that transplant recipients with a non‐KS skin cancer may also be at high KS risk.
Identification and characterization of stress degradation products of sumatriptan succinate by using LC/Q‐TOF‐ESI‐MS/MS and NMR: Toxicity evaluation of degradation products
Authors: Udutha Suresh , Shankar Gajji , Borkar Roshan M. , Kumar Katragunta , Srinivasulu G. , Guntuku Lalitha , Naidu V. G. M. , Srinivas Ragampeta
Published: July 2018

Sumatriptan succinate, a selective 5‐HT1B receptor agonist, was subjected to forced degradation studies as per to International Conference on Harmonization‐specified conditions. The drug exclusively showed its degradation under basic, photolytic, and oxidative stress conditions, whereas it was found to be stable under acidic, thermal, and neutral conditions. Eight (DP‐1 to DP‐8) degradation products were identified and characterized by UPLC‐ESI/MS/MS experiments combined with accurate mass measurements. The effective chromatographic separation was achieved on Hibar Purospher STAR, C18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column using mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid and methanol at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/minute in gradient elution method. It is noteworthy that 2 major degradation products DP‐3 and DP‐7 were isolated using preparative HPLC and characterized by advanced NMR experiments. The degradation pathway of the sumatriptan was established, which was duly justified by mechanistic explanation. In vitro cytotoxicity of isolated DPs was tested on normal human cells such as HEK 293 (embryonic kidney cells) and RWPE‐1 (normal prostate epithelial cells). This study revealed that they were nontoxic up to 100 μm concentration. Further, in silico toxicity of the drug and its degradation products was determined using ProTox‐II prediction tool. This study revealed that DP‐4 and DP‐8 are predicted for immune toxicity. Amine oxidase A and prostaglandin G/H synthase 1 are predicted as toxicity targets for DP‐3, DP‐4, and DP‐6 whereas DP‐1 and DP‐2 are predicted for amine oxidase A target.
Global snow zone maps and trends in snow persistence 2001–2016
Authors: Hammond John C. , Saavedra Freddy A. , Kampf Stephanie K.
Published: July 2018

Seasonal snow is a critical component of the surface energy balance and hydrologic cycle, yet global maps of seasonal snow boundaries are not readily available. Snow persistence (SP), the fraction of a year that snow is present on the ground, is an easily globally observed snow metric that can be used to map snow zones globally. Here we map snow zones across the globe using SP calculated from the MODIS10A2 product; evaluate how SP relates to precipitation, temperature, and climate indices; and examine trends in annual SP for 2001–2016. In the Northern Hemisphere, intermittent, seasonal, and permanent snow zones occupy a far greater percent (63%) of the land surface than in the Southern Hemisphere (<5%) where the low snow zone dominates (>95%). SP is most variable from year to year near the snow line, which has a relatively consistent decrease in elevation with increasing latitude across all continents. At lower elevations, SP is typically best correlated with temperature, whereas precipitation has greater relative importance for SP at high elevations. SP is best correlated with the North Atlantic Oscillation in all continents except South America, where the Southern Annular Mode is a stronger influence, and Africa, where the strongest correlation is with the Oceanic Niño Index. Areas with decreasing SP trends cover 5.8% of snow zone areas, whereas those with increasing trends cover 1.0% of this area. The largest areas of declining SP are in the seasonal snow zones of the Northern Hemisphere. Trend patterns vary within individual regions, with elevation, and on windward‐leeward sides of the mountains. This study supplies a framework for comparing snow between regions, highlights areas with snow changes, and can facilitate analyses of why snow changes vary within and between regions.
Dosimetry in a mammography phantom using TLD‐300 dosimeters
Authors: Muñoz I. D. , Gamboa‐deBuen I. , Avila O. , Brandan M. E.
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the photon field effective energy (Eeff) distribution and percentage depth‐dose (PDD) within a mammography phantom by the analysis of the CaF2:Tm (TLD‐300) thermoluminescent (TL) glow curve. The experimental procedure involves the use of TLD‐300 to determine with single dosimeter exposures both the relative dose and the beam quality.

Methods

TLD‐300 chips were exposed to x rays from a GE Senographe 2000D mammography unit at the surface and different depths within a BR12 phantom. X‐ray beams were generated with Mo/Mo, Mo/Rh, and Rh/Rh anode/filter combinations and voltages between 25 and 34 kV. Glow curves were deconvoluted into component peaks and the high‐ to low‐temperature ratio (HLTR) was evaluated. The photon field Eeff was obtained from the HLTR values using a calibration curve determined previously. PDD was established from the peak 5 TL signal (TLSP5) at depths between 0.0 and 3.5 cm inside the phantom. Taking into account the differences in density and composition between CaF2:Tm and breast tissue, an energy‐dependent correction factor (β(E)) was applied to TLSP5. Measurements were compared with radiation transport Monte Carlo (MC) simulations performed with PENELOPE‐2008.

Results

A typical 5% change in the HLTR from the phantom top surface to 3.5 cm depth was measured, which corresponds to a 2.2 keV increase in photon field Eeff. Values of the β(E) correction factor were 0.33 and 0.13 for Eeff equal to 15.1 and 22.5 keV, respectively. This strong energy dependence of β(E) is mostly due to the differences in fluence attenuation between CaF2 and breast tissue. According to PDD measurements, dose decreased to half the surface value at depths between 0.7 and 1.0 cm for Mo/Mo/25 and Rh/Rh/34 beams, respectively. Values of PDD, less than 10% at 3.5 cm depth, would have been overestimated by about 3.5% (a large relative error) if an energy‐independent correction factor had been assumed. Mean differences between experiments and MC simulations were 0.8 keV and 1.2% in the determination of Eeff and PDD, respectively.

Conclusion

The TLD‐300 glow curve was used to accurately measure the photon field Eeff and PDD within a mammographic phantom. This work has demonstrated that Eeff and dose can be established simultaneously by using solely TLD‐300.
Sequential kriging‐based closure approximations for flow‐induced fiber orientation and prediction of composite stiffness
Authors: Zhao Jian , Cheng Gengdong
Published: July 2018

Orientation tensor has been widely applied to predict the orientation state of the fibers in injection molding simulations. Unfortunately, calculating the second‐order orientation tensor needs to know the four‐order orientation tensor, thus requiring a closure approximation. Developing an efficient and accurate closure has been a challenging subject. This article develops a sequential Kriging‐based closure (KRI) approximation. We constructed the Kriging approximation of fourth‐order orientation tensor in terms of the second‐order orientation tensor. The maximization of expected improvement adds the second‐order orientation tensors to improve the accuracy of the closure. Results demonstrate that the prediction of the KRI closure to accurately predict fiber orientation and fiber‐reinforced composites stiffness is more accurate than the Hybrid, Orthotropic, and Natural closure for majority of the flows in industrial manufacturing processes. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1748–1761, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Developing Safe Lathing Parameters for PBX 9501
Authors: Woodrum Randall B. , Barnett David H. , Dickens James C. , Neuber Andreas A.
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the work performed on dry‐lathing PBX 9501 to gather and analyze cutting force as well as temperature data during the machining process. The data is compared to present USA federal‐regulation‐constrained machining limits of high explosives. The effects of machining parameters depth of cut, surface meters per minute, and feed per revolution on cutting force and cutting interface were evaluated. Cutting tools of tip radius 0.013 cm and 0.127 cm were tested to determine the effect of the tool shape on the machining process. Empirically, a pronounced dependence of the maximum tool temperature on the depth of cut and surface meters per minute was found, while the dependence on the feed per revolution was found much weaker. It is elucidated that rapid, shallow cuts optimize machining time for a billet of PBX 9501 while minimizing temperature increase and cutting force.
Environmental degradation and inclusive human development in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Asongu Simplice A. , Odhiambo Nicholas M.
Published: July 2018

In the light of challenges to sustainable development in the post‐2015 development agenda, this paper assesses how increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions affect inclusive human development in 44 countries in sub‐Saharan Africa for the period 2000–2012. The following findings are established from Fixed Effects and Tobit regressions: first, unconditional effects and conditional impacts are respectively positive and negative from CO2 emissions per capita, CO2 emissions from liquid fuel consumption, and CO2 intensity. This implies a Kuznets‐shaped curve because of consistent decreasing returns; and second, the corresponding net effects are consistently positive. The following findings are apparent from Generalized Method of Moments regressions: first, unconditional effects and conditional impacts are respectively negative and positive from CO2 emissions per capita, CO2 emissions from liquid fuel consumption, and CO2 intensity. This implies a U‐shaped curve because of consistent increasing returns; and second, the corresponding net effects are overwhelmingly negative. Based on the robust findings and choice of best estimator, the net effect of increasing CO2 emissions on inclusive human development is negative. Policy implications are discussed.
Green supplier selection for sustainable development of the automotive industry using grey decision‐making
Authors: Jiang Peng , Hu Yi‐Chung , Yen Ghi‐Feng , Tsao Shu‐Ju
Published: July 2018

Sustainable development is a common global theme of the 21st century. Global environmental issues have attracted increasing public attention in recent years. As one of the most important industries in Taiwan, the automotive industry needs to implement green supply chain management to comply with current trends, and the selection of suppliers of green parts is particularly important in this regard. Supplier selection is a classic case of multiple‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM). A traditional method, called the decision‐making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL)‐based analytical network process (ANP) (DANP), is appropriate to solve the problem of supplier selection. This study proposes a novel variant of DANP, called grey DANP, to effectively reduce the huge problem arising from pairwise comparisons. An empirical study was used to demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed grey DANP. It contributes to finding the key factors of selecting green suppliers for Taiwan's automotive industry, including technology, delivery time, environmental management system and pollution control. The cause–effect relationships among key factors indicate that the environmental management system should be given more attention by manufacturers in the selection of green suppliers.
ETFE‐Großkissendach über dem Lilienthalhaus in Braunschweig
Authors: Schäffer Michael , Stimpfle Bernd
Published: July 2018

Am Forschungsflughafen Braunschweig wurde als erster Bauabschnitt des neuentstehenden Lilienthal‐Quartiers ein Verwaltungs‐ und Dienstleitungsgebäude fertiggestellt. Das viergeschossige Lilienthalhaus mit seinem gekrümmt dreiecksförmigen Grundriss besitzt ein Atrium in der selben Form. Vom Architekt und Bauherrn war für die Atriumüberdachung eine leichte, innovative Konstruktion gewünscht, die möglichst viel Tageslicht in den Innenbereich leitet.

Diese Aufgabe wurde mit einem dreilagigen ETFE‐Großkissen gelöst. Die obere und untere nur 250 µm dicke ETFE‐Folie wird jeweils mit einem rautenförmigen Netz aus Edelstahlseilen gestützt. Die Folie übernimmt die Tragwirkung innerhalb der Seilrauten, die Weiterleitung der Kräfte zum Rand wird dann von den Seilen übernommen. Ein umlaufendes Randrohr sammelt dort die Kräfte, die über Streben zur Massivbaudecke geleitet werden. Die gesamte Atriumüberdachung ist geneigt und integriert den auf dem obersten Stockwerk aufgesetzten Besprechungsraum – die Skylounge. Die so entstehenden umlaufenden Fassadenflächen sind ebenfalls mit ETFE‐Folienkissen bespannt.
Digitaler Formschluss – Zahn‐Steckverbindungen für komplexe Stahlbauknoten
Authors: Lienhard Julian , Walz Arnold
Published: July 2018

Der Stahlbau ermöglicht weite architektonische Gestaltungsspielräume, wie sie im Leichtbau bereits erfolgreich umgesetzt werden. Durch die immer komplexeren Anforderungen an die Gebäudehülle und den gleichzeitigen Trend zu freien Formen steigen auch die Anforderungen an die Konstruktionsprinzipien des Stahlbaus, hin zu digital beschreibbaren und geometrisch flexiblen Fügeprinzipien. In diesem Kontext wird im vorliegenden Aufsatz eine Steckverbindung als formschlüssiges Fügeprinzip vorgestellt, die sich besonders gut in eine digitale Wertschöpfungskette komplexer Stahlbauten integrieren lässt.
Seeking efficiency with carnivore survey methods: A case study with elusive martens
Authors: Moriarty Katie M. , Linnell Mark A. , Thornton Jamie E. , Watts G. Wesley
Published: July 2018

Obtaining reliable information on species distributions is often the first step in conservation. Distribution information can be used to focus survey efforts to estimate population size and examine drivers of occupancy or other population parameters. We compared detection rates and survey costs for 2 techniques (remote cameras and scent detection teams) used to evaluate distribution of a rare carnivore, Humboldt subspecies of Pacific marten (Martes caurina humboldtensis). We used remote cameras at randomly placed sites in coastal Oregon, USA, to compare camera set type (baited, unbaited), bait height (<0.5 m, 1.37 m), and bait types (chicken and lure, cat food) for a 21‐day survey period during winter (27 Jan–12 Apr) and summer (04 Jul–14 Oct) 2015. When a marten was detected, we completed an additional survey within 25 m. Scent detection teams (human handler and dog) performed area‐constrained searches for scat deposited. We used a Bayesian occupancy model to compare detection probabilities for baited camera treatments. We detected martens at 26 sites, and offset stations detected martens at 15 of 24 sites (62.5%). Survey‐level detection probability for martens (the probability of detecting ≥1 marten during a survey) was high for the camera survey during summer and winter (estimates ranged from 60% to 99% and 33% to 82%, respectively), and similar for all treatments. We surveyed 50 sites with both remote cameras and scent detection teams 25 April–25 May 2015. Of 33 sites with ≥1 marten detection, 36.4% of units had a marten detected only by scent detection teams, 30.3% only by remote camera, and 33.3% by both techniques. When the objective was marten detection, survey costs were less for scent detection teams. For identifying individual martens and their sex, cameras paired with hair snares were more cost‐efficient. Scent detection teams provided a complementary method to baited remote cameras for assessing distribution. Using multiple techniques provided an opportunity to quantify limitations of survey methods. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
A Three‐dimensional DyIII‐based Metal‐organic Framework: Smart Drug Carrier and Anti‐lung Cancer Activity
Authors: Liu Feng‐Ji , Xu Bing‐Mei
Published: July 2018

A 3D lanthanide metal‐organic framework (MOF) with the formula [Dy2(L)2(H2O)2]n (1) (H3L = biphenyl‐3,4′,5‐tricarboxylic acid) was synthesized under solvothermal conditions and structurally characterized by elemental analysis, powder X‐ray diffraction analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Compound 1 features a 3D porous framework based on 1D rod‐shaped DyIII‐carboxylate chains. The efficient encapsulation and controllable release of an anticancer drug (5‐Fu) make it a promising drug delivery host. Furthermore, the GCMC simulation was used to probe the drug‐framework interaction at the atomic lever. The in vitro anti‐lung cancer activity of 1 and 5‐Fu loaded 1a were also evaluated using MTT assay.
Caregiving, intellectual disability, and dementia: Report of the Summit Workgroup on Caregiving and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Heller Tamar , Scott Haleigh M. , Janicki Matthew P. ,   Pre‐Summit Workgroup on Caregiving and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, Heller Tamar , Esbensen Anna , Fazio Sam , Yoshizaki‐Gibbons Hailee , Hartley Dean H. , Janicki Matthew P. , Jokinen Nancy , Kallmyer Beth , Keller Seth , Magana Sandy , Marsack Christina , McCallion Philip , Perkins Elizabeth , Putnam Michelle , Qualls Sara , Rader Rick , Roberto Karen , Scott Haleigh M. , Wheeler Barbara
Published: July 2018

Introduction

A specially commissioned working group produced a report on caregiving, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), and dementia for the National Institutes of Health–located National Research Summit on Care, Services, and Supports for Persons with Dementia and Their Caregivers.

Methods

Experts in caregiving, dementia, and IDDs examined the current state of research, policy, and practice related to caregiving and supports; identified the similarities and dissimilarities between IDD‐related care and services and the general population affected by dementia; and considered how these findings might contribute to the conversation on developing a dementia care research and services development agenda.

Results

Five major areas related to programs and caregiving were assessed: (1) challenges of dementia; (2) family caregiving interventions; (3) supportive care settings; (4) effects of diversity; and (5) bridging service networks of aging and disability.

Discussion

Recommendations included increasing supports for caregivers of adults with IDDs and dementia; increasing research on community living settings and including caregivers of persons with IDDs in dementia research; acknowledging cultural values and practice diversity in caregiving; increasing screening for dementia and raising awareness; and leveraging integration of aging and disability networks.
More than Elections: Rural Support and Regime Stability in Africa
Authors: Rabinowitz Beth S.
Published: July 2018

It is generally recognized that rural constituents are critical for winning elections. Development economists also recognize the importance of pro-agricultural policies to economic growth. Yet, little attention has been paid to the effect of rural politics on regime stability. Against conventional wisdom, this article argues that leaders who supportruralareas andsuppressurban demands are better able to stabilize the state and avoid coups. Because Ghana was able to politically stabilize after a period of state decay and five coups, the article presents an in-depth analysis of the tactical decisions made by the Ghanaian head of state who presided over these changes, John Jerry Rawlings. Using process-tracing, the study illustrates the importance of rural coalitions to stability and regime success.
The contact hypothesis re-evaluated
Authors: PALUCK ELIZABETH LEVY , GREEN SETH A. , GREEN DONALD P.
Published: July 2018

This paper evaluates the state of contact hypothesis research from a policy perspective. Building on Pettigrew and Tropp's (2006) influential meta-analysis, we assemble all intergroup contact studies that feature random assignment and delayed outcome measures, of which there are 27 in total, nearly two-thirds of which were published following the original review. We find the evidence from this updated dataset to be consistent with Pettigrew and Tropp's (2006) conclusion that contact “typically reduces prejudice.” At the same time, our meta-analysis suggests that contact's effects vary, with interventions directed at ethnic or racial prejudice generating substantially weaker effects. Moreover, our inventory of relevant studies reveals important gaps, most notably the absence of studies addressing adults' racial or ethnic prejudices, an important limitation for both theory and policy. We also call attention to the lack of research that systematically investigates the scope conditions suggested by Allport (1954) under which contact is most influential. We conclude that these gaps in contact research must be addressed empirically before this hypothesis can reliably guide policy.