bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slovenska priporočila pri okužbi s parvovirusom B19 v nosečnosti
Authors: Osvald Avguštin Nina , Premru Sršen Tanja , Šajina Stritar Barbara , Mujezinović Faris
Published: March 2018

Parvovirus B19 (B19V) causes a mild disease called erythema infectiosum, also known as the fifh disease that aﬀects mostly children and young adults. The virus can be transferred to the fetus during pregnancy in 31 to 51 % of the cases and can cause severe anaemia, non-immune hydrops fetalis or fetal death due to inhibition of erythropoiesis. It also aﬀects the heart muscle, central nervous system, bones, and most likely can cause a subsequent arrest in children’s neurological development. It is estimated that 25–45 % of pregnant women are seronegative with a high risk of infection during pregnancy. A B19V infection in pregnant women is determined by detecting specific IgM and IgG antibodies, and in case of doubt, by using PCR method to detect viral DNA. Fetal infection with B19V is confirmed by detecting viral DNA in the amniotic fluid. In the case of either a suspected or confirmed fetal infection we monitor the fetus by ultrasound screening in a tertiary centre. We treat the fetus with an intrauterine transfusion at the first signs of anaemia or hydrops. To prevent fresh infections with B19V during pregnancy we should raise awareness amongst women and healthcare workers about the risks it poses for the fetus. The recommendations for management of women who are exposed to, are at risk of developing, or have developed B19V infection in pregnancy are published in this article.
Taking R to its limits: 70+ tips
Authors: Tsagris Michail , Papadakis Manos
Published: March 2018

R has many capabilities most of which are not known by many users, yet waiting to be discovered. For this reason we provide more tips on how to write really efficient code without having to program in C++, programming advice, and tips to avoid errors and numerical overflows. This is the first time, to the best of our knowledge, that such a long list of tips is provided. The tips are categorized, according to their use, for matrices, simple functions, numerical optimization, parallel computing, programming tips, general advice, etc.
A comparison between ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ dissections for the assessment of parity in Anopheles arabiensis and determination of sac stage in mosquitoes alive or dead on collection
Authors: Charlwood Jacques D , Tomás Erzelia VE , Kidane Amanuel , Mihreteab Selam , LeClair Corey
Published: March 2018

Background. The determination of parous rates in mosquitoes, despite numerous shortcomings, remains a tool to evaluate the effectiveness of control programs and to determine vectorial capacity in malaria vectors. Two dissection techniques are used for this. For one, the tracheoles of dried ovaries are examined with a compound microscope and in the other the follicular stalk of ovaries is examined, wet, with a stereomicroscope. The second method also enables the sac stage of parous insects (which provides information on the duration of the oviposition cycle) and mated status of insects to be determined. Despite widespread use the two techniques have not previously been compared. Methods We compared the two dissection techniques using Anopheles arabiensis, collected with a tent-trap in Eritrea. The paired ovaries were removed in water and one was examined by each method. From a separate set of dissections from Tanzania, we also determined if the sac stages of A. gambiae s.l. (83% of 183 identified by PCR being Anopheles arabiensis) that were alive on collection were different to those that died on collection and what the implications for vectorial capacity might be. Results 389 host-seeking, mosquitoes, from Furvela tent-traps in Eritrea and 1823 live and 1416 dead from Furvela tent-traps, CDC light-trap and window-trap collections were dissected from Tanzania. Seven per cent of the dry ovaries could not be classified due to granulation (yolk) in the ovariole that obscured the tracheoles. The sensitivity of the dry dissection was 92.74 % (C.I. 86.67-96.63%) and the specificity was 88.51 % (C.I. 79.88-94.35%) among the 211 ovaries that could be classified by the dry technique and compared to the ovaries dissected wet. In collections from Tanzania parous insects were more likely to die compared to nulliparous ones. The proportion of parous mosquitoes with ‘a’ sacs (indicative of recent oviposition) was significantly greater in insects that were dead (0.36) on collection in the morning compared to those that were alive (0.12) (Chi square 138.9259, p < 0.001). There was a preponderance of newly emerged virgin insects in the outdoor collection (Chi sq =8.8413, p= 0.003). Conclusions The examination of mosquito ovaries using transmitted light in a ‘wet’ dissection is a more useful and informative technique than examination of dry ovaries. In order to correctly estimate the duration of the oviposition cycle mosquitoes should be dissected as soon as possible after collection. Younger insects were more likely to attempt to feed outdoors rather than indoors.
Bacteria and viruses in Arctic Sea ice
Authors: Sazhin Andrey , Romanova Nadezhda , Kopylov Alexander , Zabotkina Elena
Published: March 2018

We studied vertical distribution of bacteria and viruses in different layers of the Arctic sea ice drilled at the North Pole. The sampled multi-year ice was characterized by uneven vertical distribution of bacterial abundance. This characteristic varied within the range of 8±1.2 ×103 to 95±2.6 ×103 cells ml-1. The average bacterial abundance was 28±2.9×103 cells ml-1. The layers with the maximal bacterial abundance were located in the intermediate and lower layers of the ice cores. The morphological composition of bacterial population of the multi-year ice was dominated by the cocci cells (63-92%). Bacterial population of the multi-year ice consisted of rather large cells with the mean cell volume of 0.14 μm3. Bacterial biomass varied from 0.5 to 5 mg C m-3 with the mean value 1.57±0.2 mg C m-3. The vertical distribution of bacterial biomass generally followed the pattern of bacterial abundance distribution. The maximal viral abundance was also located in the upper, intermediate and lower layers of the ice. The ratio of viral to bacterial abundance varied from 0.6 to 28, with the mean value 12.5. The average total number of phages attached to bacteria was 6.2 ×103 viral particles ml-1. The fraction of viruses attached to bacteria varied from 0.5 to 20.7%, with the mean value 7.1% of the total viral abundance. The number of bacterial cells with viral particles attached to them varied from 0.7 to 32×103 cells ml-1, with the mean value 8×103 cells ml-1. The number of viral particles located within bacterial cells varied from 2 to 21 particles per a bacterial cell. The minimum and maximum numbers of viruses located on bacterial cells varied from 1 to 6 viral particles per a bacterial cell. The mean viral capsid size varied from 42 to 83 nm. The frequency of visibly infected bacterial cells (FVIC) calculated for the upper, intermediate and lower layers of the ice was 0.92, 1.23 and 0.8% of the total viral abundance, respectively. The overall frequency of infected cells (FIC) calculated for the same layers was 6.3, 8.4 and 0.8% of the viral numbers, respectively, while the viral-mediated mortality of bacteria (VMB) was 7.1, 9.8 and 6.1 %, respectively. The average number of viral particles located within bacterial cells was 7.3 particles per a cell. Our data show that during the study period the rate of viral infection of bacterial cells and the viral-mediated mortality of bacterial cells in the multy-year ice of the North Pole were relatively low.
Primary molt in Psophia and simpler molt summary tables
Authors: Rohwer Sievert , Rohwer Vanya G
Published: March 2018

Molt summary tables reveal the sequence and mode of flight feather replacement and how these feathers are divided into independent replacement series. These tables are relatively new, and the first illustration for generating molt summary tables used a temperate passerine. But primary replacement in temperate passerines is far too simple to address the complexities of generating summary tables for:(i) species with primaries divided into more than one replacement series, (ii) species with stepwise primary replacement, (iii) species that do not replace all their flight feathers annually, and (iv) species for which flight feather replacement has been studied for the entire wing. Here, we review complications that arise in the development of molt summary tables and offer solutions that remove ambiguity both in the direction that molt proceeds through the wing and in the recognition of nodal and terminal feathers, which start and stop waves of feather replacement. We use these modified molt summary tables to describe the sequence of primary replacement in trumpeters, a group for which primary replacement is reported to be reverse that of most other birds, but for which there has never been a detailed study of primary replacement. Using the 80 specimens of Psophia crepitans at the American Museum of Natural History, we develop molt tables that show that the sequence of primary replacement is, indeed, proximal. Further, summary tables reveal that Psophia crepitans has its primaries divided into two replacement series, one beginning at outermost primary P10, and the other beginning at P3. One juvenile confirms these primaries as the beginning of the two replacement series in the wing of Psophia crepitans.
Ripening of bananas using Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth leaves
Authors: Nascimento Rivaildo C , Freire Oliveiros O , Domingos Ana Rosa S , Falcão Mirelly SS , Ribeiro Lylian S , Zanuncio José C , Ribeiro Wellington S
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Bananas are usually matured with carbide, a dangerous substance that can cause food poisoning. The objective was to test the empirical ripening banana method using Bowdichia virgilioides leaves compared to carbide. Material and Methods: Ripening tests were carried out using 'Pacovan' banana fruits with Bowdichia virgilioides leaves and carbide following the empirical method used by Borborema farmers, Paraíba, Brazil. Results: Bowdichia virgilioides leaves induced increased respiration and vitamin C production and reduced acidity, chlorophyll and pH in banana fruits. Leaves of B. virgilioides induce maturation of 'Pacovan' banana. Discussion: Exposure of the fruits to the ethylene produced by B. virgilioides leaves induced increased respiration and climacteric, resulting in banana ripening with better results than with carbide.
Healing of Gladioulus grandiflora corms under refrigeration and Fusarium oxysporum infection
Authors: Pedroza Cruz Renata R , Ribeiro Wellington S , Silva Silvanda M , Finger Fernando L , Zanuncio José C , Corrêa Elida B , Fugate Karen K
Published: March 2018

Background. The production and marketing of flower and ornamentals have increased in the world. However, about 50% of this production is lost due to injuries caused by precarious harvesting, transportation and storage, which facilitates tissue infection. The objective of this research was to characterize wound healing in refrigerated Gladioulus grandiflora corms and how this affects the entry and establishment of Fusarium oxysporum infection. Methods. Gladioulus grandiflora corms were injured and stored at 12 ± 4 °C and a relative humidity of 90 ± 5%. Phenolic compounds, tissue darkening (melanin formation), lignification, suberization, resistance to infection, loss of fresh mass and respiratory rate were evaluated during healing of G, grandiflora corms. Results. Injury to G. grandiflora corms caused cellular decompartmentalization and death, increasing the fresh mass losses and triggering oxidase activities by exposing enzymes to substrates and O2. Discussion. Cells adjacent to the wound underwent healing in a temporal sequence, starting with an increase in respiration rate, formation of carbon skeletons that increase the concentration of phenolic compounds used for the synthesis and deposition of lignin, melanin, and suberin in injured tissues. Conclusion. These processes resulted in G. grandiflora corm healing by accumulation of lignin, melanin and suberin in wounded tissues, which sealed corm against water loss and F. oxysporum entrance by the third day after injury.
Effects of environmental and anthropogenic landscape features on mule deer harvest in Nebraska
Authors: O'Connor Bryan , Fryda Nicolas J , Ranglack Dustin H
Published: March 2018

Understanding the habitat use of wildlife species is important for effective management. Nebraska has a variety of habitat types, with the majority being covered by rangeland and cropland. These habitat types likely influence the harvest of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) in Nebraska, but their specific effects are unknown. We modeled which environmental and anthropogenic landscape features influenced harvest densities. Spatial analysis in a Geographic Information System was used to determine the mean values of environmental and anthropogenic landscape features at the county level. We then used a generalized linear model to determine which of those factors influenced mule deer harvest from 2014-2016. We found that forest habitat, riparian habitat, road density, time integrated NDVI, and terrain roughness influence mule deer harvest in Nebraska. According to our model, mule deer show a significant preference for less forested, more rugged terrain (often rangelands), that are less fragmented and developed, based on harvest density. Understanding increased harvest densities of mule deer in rangeland habitats with increased roughness, decreased road density, and decreased urbanization can be beneficial for wildlife managers, allowing for more efficient allocation of efforts and expenses by managers for population management.
Protein complex similarity based on Weisfeiler-Lehman labeling
Authors: Stöcker Bianca K , Schäfer Till , Mutzel Petra , Köster Johannes , Kriege Nils , Rahmann Sven
Published: March 2018

Being able to quantify the similarity between two protein complexes is essential for numerous applications. Prominent examples are database searches for known complexes with a given query complex, comparison of the output of different protein complex prediction algorithms, or summarizing and clustering protein complexes, e.g., for visualization. While the corresponding problems have received much attention on single proteins and protein families, the question about how to model and compute similarity between protein complexes has not yet been systematically studied. Because protein complexes can be naturally modeled as graphs, in principle general graph similarity measures may be used, but these are often computationally hard to obtain and do not take typical properties of protein complexes into account. Here we propose a parametric family of similarity measures based on Weisfeiler-Lehman labeling. We evaluate it on simulated complexes of the extended human integrin adhesome network. Because the connectivity (graph topology) of real complexes is often unknown and hard to obtain experimentally, we use both known protein-protein interaction networks and known interdependencies (constraints) between interactions to simulate more realistic complexes than from interaction networks alone. We empirically show that the defined family of similarity measures is in good agreement with edit similarity, a similarity measure derived from graph edit distance, but can be much more efficiently computed. It can therefore be used in large-scale studies and simulations and serve as a basis for further refinements of modeling protein complex similarity.
Increased chemical acetylation of peptides and proteins in rats after daily ingestion of diacetyl analyzed by Nano-Lc-MS/MS
Authors: Jedlicka Leticia Dias Lima , Guterres Sheila Barreto , Balbino Aleksandro Martins , Neto Giuseppe Bruno , Landgraf Richardt Gama , Fernandes Liliam , Carrilho Emanuel , Bechara Etelvino José Henriques , Assuncao Nilson A
Published: March 2018

Background: Acetylation alters several protein properties including molecular weight, stability, enzymatic activity, protein-protein interactions, and other biological functions. Our previous findings demonstrating that diacetyl/peroxynitrite can acetylate L-lysine, L-histidine, and albumin in vitro led us to investigate whether diacetyl-treated rats suffer protein acetylation as well.

Methods: Wistar rats were administered diacetyl daily for 4 weeks, after which they were sacrificed, and their lung proteins were extracted to be analysed by Nano-LC-MS/MS (Q-TOF). A C18 reversed-phase column and gradient elution with formic acid/acetonitrile solutions from 2 to 50% over 150 min were used to separate the proteins. Protein detection was performed using a microTOF-Q II (QTOF) equipped with captive source and an electrospray-ionization source. The data from mass spectrometry were processed using a Compass 1.7 and analyzed using Protein Scape, software that uses Mascot algorithms to perform protein searches.

Results: A set of 3162 acetylated peptides derived from 351 acetylated proteins in the diacetyl-treated group was identified. Among them, 23 targeted proteins were significantly more acetylated in the diacetyl-treated group than in the PBS control. Protein acetylation of the group treated with 540 mg/kg/day of diacetyl was corroborated by Western blotting analysis.

Conclusions: These data support our hypothesis that diacetyl exposure in animals may lead to the generation of acetyl radicals, compounds that attach to proteins, affecting their functions and triggering adverse health problems.
Computational Tools for the Structural Characterization of Proteins and Their Complexes from Sequence‐Evolutionary Data
Authors: Preto Antonio J. , Almeida Jose G. , Schaarschmidt Joerg , Xue Li C. , Moreira Irina S. , Bonvin Alexandre M.J.J.
Published: March 2018

Structural characterization of proteins and their complexes is a fundamental part in understanding any biological phenomena. Yet, the experimental determination of the three‐dimensional (3D) structure of proteins and their complexes remains a challenging undertaking. In order to complement the experimental approaches, computational methods have been developed based on a variety of algorithms and models to fill the gap between the amount of sequences and structures. In this article, we review the most common methodological approaches currently used in the field, highlighting the ab initio structure prediction methods and methods for the prediction and structural modeling of protein–protein interfaces (PPIs). We particularly focus on the use of evolutionary information to guide the modeling process.
Heterostructural Graphene Quantum Dot/MnO2 Nanosheets toward High‐Potential Window Electrodes for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Jia Henan , Cai Yifei , Lin Jinghuang , Liang Haoyan , Qi Junlei , Cao Jian , Feng Jicai , Fei WeiDong
Published: March 2018

The potential window of aqueous supercapacitors is limited by the theoretical value (≈1.23 V) and is usually lower than ≈1 V, which hinders further improvements for energy density. Here, a simple and scalable method is developed to fabricate unique graphene quantum dot (GQD)/MnO2 heterostructural electrodes to extend the potential window to 0–1.3 V for high‐performance aqueous supercapacitor. The GQD/MnO2 heterostructural electrode is fabricated by GQDs in situ formed on the surface of MnO2 nanosheet arrays with good interface bonding by the formation of MnOC bonds. Further, it is interesting to find that the potential window can be extended to 1.3 V by a potential drop in the built‐in electric field of the GQD/MnO2 heterostructural region. Additionally, the specific capacitance up to 1170 F g−1 at a scan rate of 5 mV s−1 (1094 F g−1 at 0–1 V) and cycle performance (92.7%@10 000 cycles) between 0 and 1.3 V are observed. A 2.3 V aqueous GQD/MnO2‐3//nitrogen‐doped graphene ASC is assembled, which exhibits the high energy density of 118 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 923 W kg−1. This work opens new opportunities for developing high‐voltage aqueous supercapacitors using in situ formed heterostructures to further increase energy density.
Diarylboron‐Based Asymmetric Red‐Emitting Ir(III) Complex for Solution‐Processed Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diode with External Quantum Efficiency above 28%
Authors: Yang Xiaolong , Guo Haoran , Liu Boao , Zhao Jiang , Zhou Guijiang , Wu Zhaoxin , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: March 2018

Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) are one of the most promising technologies for future displays and lighting. Compared with the blue and green OLEDs that have achieved very high efficiencies by using phosphorescent Ir(III) complexes, the red OLEDs still show relatively low efficiencies because of the lack of high‐performance red‐emitting Ir(III) complexes. Here, three highly efficient asymmetric red‐emitting Ir(III) complexes with two different cyclometalating ligands made by incorporating only one electron‐deficient triarylboron group into the nitrogen heterocyclic ring are reported. These complexes show enhanced photoluminescence quantum yields up to 0.96 and improved electron transporting capacity. In addition, the asymmetric structure can help to improve the solubility of Ir(III) complexes, which is crucial for fabricating OLEDs using the solution method. The photoluminescent and oxidation–reduction properties of these Ir(III) complexes are investigated both experimentally and theoretically. Most importantly, a solution‐processed red OLED achieves extremely high external quantum efficiency, current efficiency, and power efficiency with values of 28.5%, 54.4 cd A−1, and 50.1 lm W−1, respectively, with very low efficiency roll‐off. Additionally, the related device has a significantly extended operating lifetime compared with the reference device. These results demonstrate that the asymmetric diarylboron‐based Ir(III) complexes have great potential for fabricating high‐performance red OLEDs.
Paper in Electronic and Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Ha Dongheon , Fang Zhiqiang , Zhitenev Nikolai B.
Published: March 2018

Paper, one of the oldest materials for storage and exchange of human's information, has been reinvented as a building component of electronic and optoelectronic devices over the past decades with successful demonstration of paper‐based or paper‐using devices. These recent achievements can meet the demand for lightweight, cost‐effective, and/or flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices with advanced functionality and reduced manufacturing costs. This article provides a review of electronic and optoelectronic devices relying on or making use of the unique properties achievable with paper‐based materials. Basic scientific/technical principles, quantitative comparisons of material, electronic and/or optical properties, and benefits for each paper‐based application are given. Application‐specific research challenges, future design considerations, and development directions are also discussed.
Effective and Selective Catalysts for Cinnamaldehyde Hydrogenation: Hydrophobic Hybrids of Metal–Organic Frameworks, Metal Nanoparticles, and Micro‐ and Mesoporous Polymers
Authors: Yuan Kuo , Song Tianqun , Wang Dawei , Zhang Xiaotao , Gao Xiong , Zou Ye , Dong Huanli , Tang Zhiyong , Hu Wenping
Published: March 2018

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as selectivity regulators for catalytic reactions have attracted much attention, especially MOFs and metal nanoparticle (NP) shelled structures, e.g., MOFs@NPs@MOFs. Nevertheless, making hydrophilic MOF shells for gathering hydrophobic reactants is challenging. Described here is a new and viable approach employing conjugated micro‐ and mesoporous polymers with iron(III) porphyrin (FeP‐CMPs) as a new shell to fabricate MIL‐101@Pt@FeP‐CMP. It is not only hydrophobic and porous for enriching reactants, but also possesses iron sites to activate C=O bonds, thereby regulating the selectivity for cinnamyl alcohol in the hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde. Interestingly, MIL‐101@Pt@FeP‐CMPsponge can achieve a high turnover frequency ( 1516.1 h−1), with 97.3 % selectivity for cinnamyl alcohol at 97.6 % conversion.
Brønsted Acid Enabled Nickel‐Catalyzed Hydroalkenylation of Aldehydes with Styrene and its Derivatives
Authors: Han Xing‐Wang , Zhang Tao , Zheng Yan‐Long , Yao Wei‐Wei , Li Jiang‐Fei , Pu You‐Ge , Ye Mengchun , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: March 2018

A Brønsted acid enabled nickel‐catalyzed hydroalkenylation of aldehydes and styrene derivatives has been developed. The Brønsted acid acts as a proton shuttle to transfer a proton from the alkene to the aldehyde, thereby leading to an economical and byproduct‐free coupling. A series of synthetically useful allylic alcohols were obtained through one‐step reactions from readily available styrene derivatives and aliphatic aldehydes in up to 88 % yield and with high linear selectivity.
The relevance of reproduction and recruitment to the conservation and restoration of keystone marine invertebrates: A case study of sublittoral Modiolus modiolus reefs impacted by demersal fishing
Authors: Fariñas‐Franco Jose M. , Roberts Dai
Published: March 2018

1. Biogenic reefs formed by bivalves are biodiversity hot spots that provide important ecosystem services, but are globally endangered. In Strangford Lough (Northern Ireland) the use of mobile fishing gear (MFG) has caused extensive damage to reefs formed by the horse mussel (Modiolus modiolus L.), leading to declines in their extent and condition.

2. Captive breeding and translocation have been proposed as potential restorative strategies for the remaining reefs, and thus the reproductive biology of M. modiolus as the keystone species needs to be described prior to attempting large‐scale ecological restoration.

3. Physiological condition and gametogenesis were studied in two sympatric M. modiolus subpopulations using direct gonad assessment methods. The size‐ and age‐frequency structure of the whole metapopulation were described to establish present or past recruitment events.

4. Although gonad condition remained high in each year for the two subpopulations studied, significant losses were recorded in one subpopulation. These observations are consistent with autumn and winter spawning, but were not recorded in reefs thought to be more damaged by MFG.

5. Length‐ and age‐frequency histograms showed a distinct bimodal distribution in all remnant M. modiolus subpopulations, which were dominated by mussels over 50 years old. Little or no successful recruitment has occurred in some subpopulations, where low reproductive output caused by declines in broodstock numbers might be preventing natural recovery.

6. A combined approach of strict protection of the remaining larval sources and active restoration through stock supplementation is recommended to address recruitment limitations and increase connectivity between remnant subpopulations.
Core–Shell NiO@Ni‐P Hybrid Nanosheet Array for Synergistically Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysis: Experimental and Theoretical Insights
Authors: Hao Shuai , Chen Ninghua , Liu Qin , Xie Ying , Fu Honggang , Yang Yingchun
Published: March 2018

Cost‐effective and highly‐efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction are crucial for electrolytic hydrogen production. Here, we report core–shell NiO@Ni‐P nanosheet arrays as a high‐performance 3D catalyst for water oxidation electrocatalysis. Such nanoarrays demand overpotentials of 292 and 350 mV to drive geometrical catalytic current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, with an activity superior to its NiO and Ni‐P counterparts. Notably, this catalyst also shows a high long‐term electrochemical durability with a Faradaic efficiency of 98.1 %. Density functional theory calculation reveals that the superior activity benefits from the synergistic effect between NiO and Ni‐P.
Fluorocarbon Separation in a Thermally Robust Zirconium Carboxylate Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Wanigarathna Darshika K. J. A. , Gao Jiajian , Liu Bin
Published: March 2018

Fluorocarbons have important applications in industry, but are environmentally unfriendly, and can cause ozone depletion and contribute to the global warming with long atmospheric lifetimes and high global warming potential. In this work, the metal–organic framework UiO‐66(Zr) is demonstrated to have excellent performance characteristics to separate fluorocarbon mixtures at room temperature. Adsorption isotherm measurements of UiO‐66(Zr) display high fluorocarbon sorption uptakes of 5.0 mmol g−1 for R22 (CHClF2), 4.6 mmol g−1 for R125 (CHF2CF3), and 2.9 mmol g−1 for R32 (CH2F2) at 298 K and 1 bar. Breakthrough data obtained for binary (R22/R32 and R32/R125) and ternary (R32/R125/R134a) mixtures reveal high selectivities and capacities of UiO‐66(Zr) for the separation and recycling of these fluorocarbon mixtures. Furthermore, the UiO‐66(Zr) saturated with R22 and R125 can be regenerated at temperatures as low as 120 °C with excellent desorption–adsorption cycling stabilities.
Postinfarction ventricular septal defect on catheterization table, challenging and unique occurrence at a community‐based hospital
Authors: Wahab Ahsan , Khan Hafiz , Khan Mahin , Changezi Hameem , Smith Susan
Published: March 2018

Key Clinical Message

Ventricular septal defect (VSD), one of the major mechanical complications of myocardial infarction, portends a severe threat to life and hence demands a high degree of suspicion, appropriate investigations, and emergent repair, particularly in cases of cardiogenic shock. Although the development of VSD in extensive or anterior infarction is not unexpected, its occurrence during cardiac catheterization frames a unique, challenging experience and creates a learning opportunity. We present a patient who developed postinfarction VSD during cardiac catheterization.
Nanocarbon‐Based Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Aqueous Li/Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Ronghua , Chen Zhen , Hu Ning , Xu Chaohe , Shen Zexiang , Liu Jilei
Published: March 2018

Rechargeable aqueous Li/Zn‐air batteries have become the most attractive energy storage devices because of their extremely high theoretical energy density, which enables electric vehicles to drive long range. However, current achievements still suffer from poor cycle life, low practical energy density, low round‐trip efficiency, and high manufacturing costs. One of the key challenges is the sluggish kinetics of oxygen electrochemistry during discharge and charge cycles. Thus, significant breakthroughs in design and synthesis of efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen redox reaction are highly demanded. Nanocarbons, especially heteroatoms doped nanocarbons, are potential oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts due to the reasonable balance between catalytic activity, durability, and cost. Importantly, by introduction of transition metal nanoparticles, spinel oxides, layered‐double hydroxides, perovskite oxides, and other metal oxides, the constructed nanocarbon‐based materials could deliver promising bifunctional ORR and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalytic properties, which could be employed as air‐cathode materials to improve energy storage performances, even to get commercialized. Here, an overview of the recent progress of nanocarbon‐based electrocatalysts as air‐cathode materials for rechargeable aqueous Li/Zn‐air batteries is provided, aiming to highlight the benefits and issues of nanocarbon‐based electrocatalysts as well as to outline the most promising results and applications so far.
Ordered Mesoporous Titania/Carbon Hybrid Monoliths for Lithium‐ion Battery Anodes with High Areal and Volumetric Capacity
Authors: Dörr Tobias S. , Fleischmann Simon , Zeiger Marco , Grobelsek Ingrid , de Oliveira Peter W. , Presser Volker
Published: March 2018

Free‐standing, binder‐free, and conductive additive‐free mesoporous titanium dioxide/carbon hybrid electrodes were prepared from co‐assembly of a poly(isoprene)‐block‐poly(styrene)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer and a titanium alkoxide. By tailoring an optimized morphology, we prepared macroscopic mechanically stable 300 μm thick monoliths that were directly employed as lithium‐ion battery electrodes. High areal mass loading of up to 26.4 mg cm−2 and a high bulk density of 0.88 g cm−3 were obtained. This resulted in a highly increased volumetric capacity of 155 mAh cm−3, compared to cast thin film electrodes. Further, the areal capacity of 4.5 mAh cm−2 represented a 9‐fold increase compared to conventionally cast electrodes. These attractive performance metrics are related to the superior electrolyte transport and shortened diffusion lengths provided by the interconnected mesoporous nature of the monolith material, assuring superior rate handling, even at high cycling rates.
Effectiveness of various isometric exercises at improving bone strength in cortical regions prone to distal tibial stress fractures
Authors: Florio C.S.
Published: March 2018

A computational model was used to compare the local bone strengthening effectiveness of various isometric exercises that may reduce the likelihood of distal tibial stress fractures. The developed model predicts local endosteal and periosteal cortical accretion and resorption based on relative local and global measures of the tibial stress state and its surface variation. Using a multisegment 3‐dimensional leg model, tibia shape adaptations due to 33 combinations of hip, knee, and ankle joint angles and the direction of a single or sequential series of generated isometric resultant forces were predicted. The maximum stress at a common fracture‐prone region in each optimized geometry was compared under likely stress fracture‐inducing midstance jogging conditions. No direct correlations were found between stress reductions over an initially uniform circular hollow cylindrical geometry under these critical design conditions and the exercise‐based sets of active muscles, joint angles, or individual muscle force and local stress magnitudes. Additionally, typically favorable increases in cross‐sectional geometric measures did not guarantee stress decreases at these locations. Instead, tibial stress distributions under the exercise conditions best predicted strengthening ability. Exercises producing larger anterior distal stresses created optimized tibia shapes that better resisted the high midstance jogging bending stresses. Bent leg configurations generating anteriorly directed or inferiorly directed resultant forces created favorable adaptations. None of the studied loads produced by a straight leg was significantly advantageous. These predictions and the insight gained can provide preliminary guidance in the screening and development of targeted bone strengthening techniques for those susceptible to distal tibial stress fractures.
Mechanochemical Reinforcement of Graphene Sheets into Alkyd Resin Matrix for the Development of Electrically Conductive Paints
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Karthikeyan , Pazhamalai Mr. Parthiban , Lim Jong Hwan , Choi Kyung Hyun , Kim Sang‐Jae
Published: March 2018

In this work, we are reporting the preparation of graphene‐based conductive paints using mechanochemically prepared graphene nanosheets as a conductive pigment and alkyd resin as the binder with non‐toxic additives. The surface morphology and intermolecular interactions between the graphene pigments and alkyd resin in the prepared graphene nanopaint are studied using field emission scanning electron microscope, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopic analysis, respectively. The formation of percolation pathways owing to the interconnected graphene sheets in the paint matrix resulted in an excellent conductive behavior of the as‐prepared graphene paint, thus ensuring its applications in conductive paint technology. Furthermore, Raman mapping analysis (including intensity maps and peak position maps) was used to understand the spatial distribution of graphene sheets in the alkyd resin matrix of the paint.
Generation and characterization of a mouse line carrying Reck‐CreERT2 knock‐in allele
Authors: Matsuzaki Tomoko , Wang Huan , Imamura Yukio , Kondo Shunya , Ogawa Shuichiro , Noda Makoto
Published: March 2018

Reck encodes a membrane‐anchored glycoprotein implicated in the regulation of extracellular metalloproteinases, Notch‐signaling, and Wnt7‐signaling and shown to play critical roles in embryogenesis and tumor suppression. Precise mechanisms of its actions in vivo, however, remain largely unknown. By homologous recombination, we generated a new Reck allele, ReckCreERT2 (MGI symbol: Reck). This allele is defective in terms of Reck function but expected to induce loxP‐mediated recombination in the cells committed to express Reck. Similarity in the expression patterns of the ReckCreERT2 transgene and the endogenous Reck gene was confirmed in five tissues. In the adult hippocampus, induction of Reck expression after transient cerebral ischemia could be demonstrated using this allele. These results indicate the utility of this Cre‐driver allele in further studies.
Advanced Oxidation Process using DC Corona Discharge over Water
Authors: MIICHI TOMOAKI , KANZAWA RYUYA
Published: March 2018

The characteristics of acetic acid decomposition were investigated by a negative dc corona discharge over water. The corona discharge is 4 mm away from the water surface. Hence, this method does not directly treat water using discharge plasma. During corona processing, oxygen or ozone was supplied to the reactor. The concentration of gaseous ozone over water in the reactor was measured by infrared spectroscopy. The optimal discharge treatment conditions were investigated by varying the gas flow rate. It was found that the decomposition rate of acetic acid increased when the gas flow rate was high at the same gaseous ozone concentration. Furthermore, as the gas flow rate increased, the concentration of the water vapor measured by infrared spectroscopy decreased. Our results indicate that the concentration of water vapor and ozone are important for water treatment using a dc corona discharge.
Modelling the effect of hydropeaking‐induced stranding mortality on Atlantic salmon population abundance
Authors: Hedger Richard D. , Sauterleute Julian , Sundt‐Hansen Line E. , Forseth Torbjørn , Ugedal Ola , Diserud Ola H. , Bakken Tor H.
Published: March 2018

Studies of hydropeaking‐induced stranding mortality on fish populations have been confined to analysis of empirical data and/or short‐term hydraulic‐habitat modelling of individual events and are thus limited as to how they may be used to infer long‐term effects in fish populations. In this study, the effects of stranding mortality on an Atlantic salmon population were simulated using an individual‐based Atlantic salmon population model with the objective of determining the sensitivity of population dynamics to stranding. It was found that density‐dependent mortality (an alternative source of mortality in juvenile Atlantic salmon) partially compensated for stranding mortality, acting as a negative feedback mechanism that dampened change in population abundance. Stranding caused a perturbation in population dynamics, and effects of individual stranding events persisted in time across the life stages of the population. Effects on population abundance depended on the time of year when stranding was applied, both because of intra‐annual changes in stranding mortality probability and because of intra‐annual changes in the ability of density‐dependent mortality to compensate for stranding mortality. We concluded that empirical measurements of stranding mortality have limited potential for inference of overall effects on the population, and a more dynamic modelling approach, incorporating system feedback, allows for a better modelling of the impact of stranding. Sensitivity analysis showed that population abundance was highly sensitive to density‐dependent mortality, and we suggest that this area should be prioritized for further research when investigating the effects of hydropeaking on rivers.
History, hydrology and hydraulics: Rethinking the ecological management of large rivers
Authors: Mallen‐Cooper Martin , Zampatti Brenton P.
Published: March 2018

Climatic extremes capture imaginations and provide a fundamental premise for biologists—that ecosystems are adapted to natural variability. Hence, understanding past extremes provides a template for contemporary ecological models and management. Nevertheless, myths can develop around historical climatic events, distorting perceptions of the past. The mythology of the Murray River in Australia is that over 100 years ago, it naturally “dried to a series of pools” in drought; therefore, the biota are flexible and adapted to hydrological variability and lentic habitats.

Analysis of historical and modelled hydrology and hydrodynamics, however, demonstrates that: (a) cease‐to‐flow events were not natural and were instead caused by multiple small‐scale irrigation diversions; and (b) the Murray River had widespread perennial lotic habitats. Within a generation, the spatial, temporal, and causal context was lost and with it, the links between preregulation hydrology and hydraulics, and river ecology.

From an intermittently lentic system, we propose an alternative model which integrates ecohydrology and ecohydraulics. Specifically, the model incorporates: (a) persistence of lotic in‐channel and lentic off‐channel refugia, even in droughts; and (b) a reliable spring flow pulse that increases hydrodynamic complexity, promotes longitudinal integrity of lotic conditions and replenishes low‐lying wetlands. The model helps explain the decline of lotic biota, suggesting that hydraulic change has had a greater impact on aquatic biodiversity than changes in hydrology.

Being mindful of historical conditions and considering spatio‐temporal ecohydraulics provides new opportunities for the rehabilitation of highly modified rivers and may assist the strategic development of large rivers, including for hydropower.
Dew formation characteristics at annual and daily scale in xerophyte shrub plantations at Southeast margin of Tengger desert, Northern China
Authors: Yan‐Xia Pan , Xin‐Ping Wang , Ya‐Feng Zhang , Rui Hu
Published: March 2018

Being a potential water source in arid and semiarid regions, it is important to quantify the amount of dew. The objective of this study was to determine the annual formation characteristics of dew and the influence of vegetation reconstruction on dew formation in a revegetated desert area. Effects of condensing surface types associated with different plant microhabitats were investigated. We found soil dew mainly depended on air water vapour near soil surface, and primarily formed at 0–3 cm soil layer. Dew formed on 128 days during a 1‐year experiment period could be divided into 2 different periods; the monthly dew yield and the number of dew formation days were highest from May to October, and the cumulative dew yield of July and August accounted for nearly 50% of the annual dew yield. Biological soil crusts facilitated dew formation, with annual dew accumulation of 15.3, 11.9, and 9.6 mm on moss crust, mixed crust, and dune sand, respectively. A longer daily dew production period was found on moss crusts than mixed crusts and dune sand. Plant microhabitats also influenced dew formation characteristics, less dew condense under plant canopies than on dune sand, but the daily dew production period was longer under plant canopies. The findings from this study will provide important and fundamental information to support accurate assessment of the relative importance of dew and rainfall in research on the hydrological cycle of this region, which will be a significant foundation for vegetation protection and ecological restoration in drought environments.
Seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile as a marine biomarker: a metabolomic and toxicological analysis
Authors: Toniolo Chiara , Di Sotto Antonella , Di Giacomo Silvia , Ventura Daniele , Casoli Edoardo , Belluscio Andrea , Nicoletti Marcello , Ardizzone Giandomenico
Published: March 2018

A human‐made environmental disaster due to the shipwrecked of Costa Concordia cruise vessel on the Tuscan Island of Giglio (Italy) coast and the possible pollutants release has been feared, so requiring the activation of removal operations and the monitoring of the marine environment. In the present study, the seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile was used as a bioindicator for the impact of the Costa Concordia accident on the marine and coastal habitat. Different P. oceanica samples were collected in the shipwrecked site under different light conditions. Using high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography, metabolic analysis of the samples was carried out in order to highlight possible changes in the secondary metabolism due to the permanent shading and the presence of pollutant traces. Moreover, sample mutagenicity, as a consequence of the possible absorption of environmental toxicants leaked by the wreck, was assessed by the Ames test. The results highlighted the permanence of the Concordia‐induced alteration in the plant secondary metabolites. However, absorption of chemical pollutants and carcinogens was not reported; this point was confirmed by the lack of mutagenic effects found for the samples tested. Our results clearly evidence that the environmental impact of Costa Concordia wreck and removal operations on P. oceanica was mainly due to the lack of light in the marine habitat. Present methodological approach, which combines metabolomic and genetic ecotoxicological analysis, could represent a suitable strategy to evaluate the impact of human disasters on the ecosystem and to monitor the environmental changes.
Wood production and biodiversity conservation are rival forestry objectives in Europe's Baltic Sea Region
Authors: Angelstam Per , Naumov Vladimir , Elbakidze Marine , Manton Michael , Priednieks Janis , Rendenieks Zigmars
Published: March 2018

The policy term green infrastructure highlights the need to maintain functional ecosystems as a foundation for sustainable societies. Because forests are the main natural ecosystems in Europe, it is crucial to understand the extent to which forest landscape management delivers functional green infrastructures. We used the steep west–east gradient in forest landscape history, land ownership, and political culture within northern Europe's Baltic Sea Region to assess regional profiles of benefits delivered by forest landscapes. The aim was to support policy‐makers and planners with evidence‐based knowledge about the current conditions for effective wood production and biodiversity conservation. We developed and modeled four regional‐level indicators for sustained yield wood production and four for biodiversity conservation using public spatial data. The western case study regions in Sweden and Latvia had high forest management intensity with balanced forest losses and gains which was spatially correlated, thus indicating an even stand age class distribution at the local scale and therefore long‐term sustained yields. In contrast, the eastern case study regions in Belarus and Russia showed spatial segregation of areas with forest losses and gains. Regarding biodiversity conservation indicators, the west–east gradient was reversed. In the Russian, Belarusian, and Latvian case study regions, tree species composition was more natural than in Sweden, and the size of contiguous areas without forest loss was larger. In all four case study regions, 54–85% of the total land base consisted of forest cover, which is above critical fragmentation thresholds for forest landscape fragmentation. The results show that green infrastructures for wood production and biodiversity conservation are inversely related among the four case study regions, and thus rival. While restoration for biodiversity conservation is needed in the west, intensified use of wood and biomass is possible in the east. However, a cautious approach should be applied because intensification of wood production threatens biodiversity. We discuss the barriers and bridges for spatial planning in countries with different types of land ownership and political cultures and stress the need for a landscape approach based on evidence‐based collaborative learning processes that include both different academic disciplines and stakeholders that represent different sectors and levels of governance.