bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth, nutrient uptake and proximate composition of Rhodomonas sp. cultured using f/2 medium and agricultural fertilizers
Authors: Valenzuela-Espinoza E , Lafarga-De-La-Cruz F , Millán-Nuñez R , Núñez-Cebrero F
Published: August 2017

We determined the growth, nutrient (PO43–, NO3–, NH4+) uptake and proximate composition of Rhodomonas sp. cultured during seven days in batch culture using f/2 medium and agricultural fertilizers. The growth rate was similar with both media (µ = 0.37 and 0.38 day–1). Protein content in Rhodomonas sp. cultured with f/2 medium was higher than with agricultural fertilizers (10.7 and 8.96 pg cell–1, respectively). Carbohydrate and lipid contents decreased during the exponential growth phase and there were no significant differences (P = 0.027 and 0.08, respectively) between both experiments. Carbohydrate content was higher during the slow growth phase in cultures using f/2 medium, whereas lipid content showed little variation during the slow growth phase, but was higher in cells cultured using agricultural fertilizers. During the first five days, total phosphate uptake by Rhodomonas sp. was 39.9 µM (94.3%) in the f/2 medium and 40 µM (99%) in the agricultural fertilizer medium. A total of 667.3 µM of nitrate (72.2%) was consumed during the first four days in the f/2 medium, whereas in the agricultural fertilizer medium formulated with ammonium nitrate, ammonium uptake (418.1 µM, 78.7%) in the first three days was higher than nitrate uptake (37.7 µM, 7.3%); however, when ammonium concentration decreased to 1.83 µM, the nitrate uptake increased. In conclusion, the cellular quantity and quality of Rhodomonas sp. was similar when both media were used and agricultural fertilizers can be used in marine aquaculture programs.
Numerical simulation of the hydrodynamics of a port and effect of a wave-driven seawater pump
Authors: Flores-Vidal X , Ramírez-Aguilar I , Czitrom-Baus S
Published: August 2017

A three-dimensional numerical model was adapted to study the circulation, stratification and mixing patterns inside the port of El Sauzal. Salinity, temperature and density field data were measured, showing that density variations were mainly due to the temperature field with a very small contribution from salinity. The model simulated surface currents and the temperature field. The simulation was compared against field data showing that the model reproduces satisfactorily the circulation, stratification and mixing patterns. Surface circulation and vertical mixing were mainly forced by the tide, although winds greater than 6 m s–1 became the main forcing of vertical mixing and surface circulation. The surface currents traveled outside the port during ebb tide and vice versa during flood tide; however, with winds greater than 6 m s–1, the surface velocity followed the wind direction. When a discharge of 0.2 m3 s–1 was introduced into the system, the simulation showed an increase of 0.5 cm s–1 in the surface current velocity, during ebb tide. The vertical temperature structure increased as much as the discharge temperature (17.2ºC). This result verifies that a controlled discharge could improve circulation and mixing, reducing the residence time and improving the levels of oxygen in the water.
Presence of cytochrome P450 in the Caribbean corals Siderastrea siderea and Montastraea faveolata
Authors: García E , Ramos R , Bastidas C
Published: August 2017

Cytochrome P450 was detected in the animal tissue of the scleractinian corals Siderastrea siderea and Montastraea faveolata collected from a reef site on the west coast of Venezuela. The concentration of P450 in these species (0.4–2.1 nmol mg–1 of microsomal protein) was similar to the levels found in other marine invertebrates, but higher than previously reported for other organisms of the phylum Cnidaria. Maximum P450 content was detected in samples collected during the reproductive season of S. siderea. These results confirm the presence of a functional cytochrome P450 in two coral species. Its usefulness as a biomarker for environmental monitoring has to be further investigated.
Immunological responses and wound healing in the polychaete Eurythoe complanata (Annelida: Amphinomidae) exposed to copper
Authors: Zapata-Vívenes E , Nusetti OA , Marcano L , Esclapés MM , Arredondo L
Published: August 2017

Polychaetes exposed to 0.4 mg Cu+2 L–1 (2.14 mg CuSO4 5H2O L–1; 30% 96 h-LC50) for seven days and control individuals were divided into three groups: the first two were sensitized and non-sensitized with Micrococcus lysodeikticus, and the third was sensitized with heat-killed yeast. Lysozyme activity was tested in the first two groups and phagocytosis in the third one. Lysozyme was measured at 2 h and phagocytosis 15 min after immune sensitization. The effect of copper on wound healing was also examined in the polychaetes. For this, the polychaetes exposed and not exposed to copper were cut in two halves, and the body fragments were held in aquaria containing clean seawater, and the cicatrization was periodically observed. The lysozyme and phagocytosis responses were induced by the sensitization; however, these responses were inhibited after the metal exposure. On the other hand, 60–80% of the body fragments from the control group healed within four days, whereas the copper-treated individuals did not show cicatrization in the same period of time. In conclusion, the inhibition of the experimental activation of lysozyme and phagocytosis, and of wound healing in the polychaete Eurythoe complanata exposed to acute copper exposure, suggests the metal´  s potential toxicity on the physiological mechanisms that modulate the innate immunity in annelids, whose alteration could affect their tolerance to microbial infection.
Geochemical characterization of sediment cores from the continental shelf off the western rias area (NW Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Corredeira C , Araújo MF , Gouveia A , Jouanneau JM
Published: August 2017

The present work aims to understand the origin of sediments deposited in the Galician coastal zone and continental shelf. Selected sediment cores were studied using different geochemical approaches: grain-size measurements, carbonate determinations and elemental analyses. Chemical analyses were carried out by multielemental techniques: energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF) and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). The grain-size distribution demonstrated that samples collected off the rias (Vigo and Pontevedra) contain higher percentages of silt and clay. The carbonate enrichment measured in some sediment samples with different locations and granulometries seems to indicate that the sediments might have distinct origins: biological fluvial productivity in sediments off the rias and marine biogenic activities for the deeper continental shelf sediments. Chemical analyses made it possible to distinguish different elemental sources: lithogenic, anthropogenic and biogenic. The downcore profiles of the elemental composition showed signs of a recent continental contamination for Zn and to a lesser extent for As, although there are no signs of exportation to the adjacent continental shelf. Other elements that can indicate anthropogenic activities were present in low concentrations compared with reference values. The Zr distribution determined in sediments collected along a straight line off Vigo Ria increases westwards, indicating an absence of recent exportation of this element from the continent.
Chemical and mineralogical characterization of the sediments from the Mira, Ilhavo and Ovar channels of Aveiro Lagoon (Portugal)
Authors: Rocha Fernando , Silva Eduardo , Bernardes Cristina , Vidinha Jesus , Patinha Carla
Published: August 2017

The paleoenvironmental reconstruction of Aveiro Lagoon is being carried out based on the sedimentological, paleoecological, geochemical and mineralogical characterization of sediment samples collected systematically in the lagoon. This paper presents results concerning the changes in the chemical and mineralogical composition of the fine fraction (<63 µm) and the clay fraction (<2 µm) in sediment samples from Aveiro Lagoon, mainly collected from the lower intertidal plain and subtidal deposits located along the Mira, ÿlhavo and Ovar channels. A zonography of the lagoon was established based on the parameters analyzed. The results show that the surface and near-surface sediments of Aveiro Lagoon trap relatively large quantities of trace metals, such as Cu, Pb, Co, Ni, Cd, Zn, Fe, Mn and Cr, considered to be partially adsorbed, particularly on silty and clayey particles, and coprecipitated on Fe and Mn oxyhydroxide forms precipitated in the topmost layers of sediments. Series of statistically significant relationships were established between trace metal concentrations and clay content and semi-quantitatively determined clay mineral species in the sediments.
Fe, Zn, Cu and Cd concentrations in the digestive gland and muscle tissues of Octopus vulgaris and Sepia officinalis from two coastal areas in Portugal
Authors: Raimundo J , Pereira P , Vale C , Caetano M
Published: August 2017

Concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cu and Cd were measured in the mantle, arm and digestive gland of Octopus vulgaris (Cuvier, 1797) and in the mantle and digestive gland of Sepia officinalis (Linnaeus, 1758) captured at two sites on the Portuguese coast during 2001. The most abundant element was Zn, reaching 121 µg g–1 in muscle tissues; Fe and Cu presented a similar range of concentration, 5.4–81 µg g–1 and 3.3–72 µg g–1, respectively; and Cd varied between 0.010 and 3.3 µg g–1. Metal concentrations in the digestive gland were two and three orders of magnitude higher than those recorded in the mantle and arm. The relationship between metal concentration and body weight was found mainly in the digestive gland and rarely in the mantle and arm. The Cd:Zn and Cd:Cu ratios were particularly high in the digestive gland of the two species captured at the most contaminated site and presented positive linear relationships with the body weight. This suggests a progressive accumulation of Cd in the digestive gland of octopus and cuttlefish with growth, in comparison to the essential elements Zn and Cu.
A mussel watch in the Ria Formosa lagoon
Authors: Morgado ME , Bebbiano MJ
Published: August 2017

The present work analyzes the concentrations of various metals (Ag, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) in the edible part of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis from the Ria Formosa lagoon (Portugal). Mussels of a similar size (5–7 cm) were collected. The results indicate that the dispersion and accumulation of metals in mussels is influenced essentially by the sources of pollution and the bioavailability of the metal. The highest concentrations of Ag, Cu and Ni occurred in the mussels from sites 1, 6 and 7, which are mainly related to inputs from urban discharges. The highest concentrations of Cr were found in the mussels from sites 2 and 5, located near urban discharges and metallic structures. The highest concentrations of Pb were recorded in the mussels from site 9, associated with fuel from boats and diffuse inputs of this metal. The mussels at sites 3, 4 and 9 presented the highest concentrations of Zn and Cd, probably caused by physical and chemical processes that occur in the boundary between the lagoon and the ocean. The concentrations of Ag and Ni in the mussels of Ria Formosa are relatively low when compared to other geographical locations. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu and Pb accumulated in the mussels reveal low contamination. As for the concentration of Zn, the values in the Ria Formosa mussels are higher in the eastern part of the lagoon than in the western part, revealing signs of contamination by this metal.
Dilution and autodepuration processes in a coastal system affected by urban wastewater discharges: Case study of the Iro River estuary (southwestern Spain)
Authors: Acevedo-Merino A , Garrido-Pérez C , Nebot-Sanz E , Sales-Márquez D
Published: August 2017

Dilution and autodepuration processes in an estuary of strong tidal regimen affected by sewage from a wastewater treatment plant have been studied and identified. To differentiate between both processes, three evaluations were made during different seasons. Two tests were developed in parallel during each evaluation: characterization of the estuary and microcosm trials. In both tests, the evolution of diverse microbiological and physicochemical parameters were examined. From the microbiological results, T90 for the faecal coliform (FC) and faecal streptococci (FS) bacterial groups were obtained. In the estuary, dilution was identified as the most important microorganism reduction process, with T90 of 12.2–40.8 and 11.7–53.5 minutes for FC and FS, respectively. In the microcosm trials, salinity was the main autodepuration factor, with T90 of 3.1–42.6 and 4.6–54.8 hours for FC and FS, respectively. The FC group proved to be the most sensitive bacteria to autodepuration processes and FS the most adaptable to the adverse conditions of the aquatic environment.
Relationship between PCBs in suspended and settled sediments from a coastal lagoon
Authors: Barreira LA , Bebianno MJ , Mudge SM , Ferreira AM , Albino CI , Veriato LM
Published: August 2017

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener concentrations and organic matter content were determined in 84 samples of suspended and settled sediments collected from six different locations in the Ria Formosa lagoon (Portugal). Total PCB (tPCB) concentrations were higher in the suspended matter (1.00–39.80 ng g–1 dw) than in the sediments (0.10–2.10 ng g–1 dw) and, in general, the same was true for the organic matter. Partial least squares (PLS) analysis using the suspended sediments as signatures indicated that they better explained the settled sediment pattern compared to the reverse. This suggests a suspended sediment source outside the lagoon as source of these PCBs. PLS analysis also indicated that Aroclor 1242 best explained the congener pattern in the sediments, but lower fits were obtained for the suspended matter. The tri- and tetra-chlorinated biphenyls were the most abundant congeners (about 60% of tPCB), followed by the hexa- (20%), penta- (11%) and hepta + octa-chlorobiphenyls (9%). The principal congener differences between the suspended and settled sediments were for the smaller tri- and tetrachlorinated biphenyls, which were preferentially accumulated in the settled sediments. In contrast, congener 49 was significantly more abundant in the suspended phase and may be formed through the anaerobic UV degradation pathway either in suspension or on the surface of strongly anoxic sediments at low tide.
Optimal Control
Authors: Ito Kazufumi
Published: August 2017

Optimal control theory is concerned with the development of techniques that allow controlling physical phenomena described by dynamical systems in such a manner that a prescribed performance criterion is minimized. The main components of an optimal control problem are the mathematical model in the form of a differential equation, a description of how the control enters into this system, and a criterion describing the performance index. In the first section we explain some of the concepts in the optimal control theory by means of a classical example. Then, a general class of optimal control problems is introduced. Pontryagin principle and Lagrange multiplier theory are discussed for the necessary optimality condition and its applications to linear quadratic regulator (LQR) problem. Specific applications to the time optimal control and the minimum norm control problem are discussed in details. Dynamic programming principle and Hamilton Jacobi Bellman equation are presented for the optimal feedback synthesis and the corresponding viscosity solution method. LQR theory via Riccati equations and inverse Hamiltonian method as a fast solution technique for Riccati solution for large scale problems are also discussed. Lastly, we introduce numerical methods, i.e., time discretization method, semi‐smooth Newton method for non‐smooth problems, and a reduced order method for the construction of feedback synthesis.
Self‐Tuning Regulators
Authors: Wittenmark Björn
Published: August 2017

A self‐tuning regulator (STR) is a controller that automatically finds its parameters in the control law. Another name or synonym is self‐adjusting controllers. The STRs are a class of adaptive controllers used when the process to be controlled has constant but unknown parameters. However, the STRs can also be used in an adaptive context.
Excitation Control in Power Systems
Authors: Malik O. P.
Published: August 2017

Excitation system, an integral part of the synchronous generator, performs control and protection functions that include control of voltage and reactive power. Power system stability can also be enhanced by supplying additional signal through the excitation system. This function is performed by the power system stabilizer (PSS) that generates a control signal introduced as a supplementary input into the excitation system. Due to the nonlinear characteristics, wide operating conditions, and unpredictability of perturbations in a power system, the conventional fixed parameterPSSgenerally cannot maintain the same quality of performance under all operating conditions. To improve power system performance and stability, various approaches have been proposed. An overview of the development and successful implementation of various approaches, including adaptive PSSs based on analytical and artificial intelligence techniques, is provided.
Electric Power Generation and Transmission System
Authors: Ahmed Ashfaq
Published: August 2017

Electric power network is an interconnection of generation, transmission, and distribution systems. In the traditional grid, the generation was centralized to large power plants such as coal, nuclear, and hydroelectric. With the advancement of technology, renewable energy resources such as wind, solar, and biomass are becoming more popular and widespread. Renewable energy resources are small in capacity compared to coal and nuclear plants but are spread in the transmission and distribution system and located closer to the load centers. The transmission system is used to transfer electrical energy from generation to load centers. This system consists of transmission lines and the substations with transformers and other components used to maintain the voltages as well as the active and reactive power flow. Transmission lines are characterized based on their line resistance, inductance, and shunt capacitance. The power flow analysis is used to analyze the active and reactive power flow in the power system from generation to load centers. This article discusses different types of generation in the power system. Transmission line characteristics and power flow analysis techniques are also presented with the different technologies used for reactive power control.
Comb‐Like Polymers
Authors: Xu Hongxing , Wang Haixia , Li Shuqin , Li Jing , Wang Xinran , Shi Haifeng
Published: August 2017

Comb‐like polymers, as a kind of special graft polymers, have attracted interests due to their predetermined molecular structure and selected functionality. By controlling the structural composition of comb‐like polymers—such as the rigidity of polymer backbone, the length‐scale and the topological structure of the side chains—some interesting properties can be manipulated, and the transformation from passive to intelligent response is well approached. The incompatible polymeric main chain and side chain in comb‐like polymers contribute to novel hierarchical architectures and topologies, which exhibit various applications in textile, chemistry, proton conduction, waste treatment, and electronic fields. A deep understanding of the hierarchical structure and the assembled morphologies is helpful in achieving high‐performance functional materials used in the fabrication of microelectronic devices, microchip cooling, and so on. Herein, we review the recent progress on comb‐like polymers and highlight their fabrication, structure, and property, especially from the viewpoint of crystallization, phase transition, and thermal behavior.
Local ensemble transform Kalman filter for ionospheric data assimilation: Observation influence analysis during a geomagnetic storm event
Authors: Durazo Juan A. , Kostelich Eric J. , Mahalov Alex
Published: August 2017

We propose a targeted observation strategy, based on the influence matrix diagnostic, that optimally selects where additional observations may be placed to improve ionospheric forecasts. This strategy is applied in data assimilation observing system experiments, where synthetic electron density vertical profiles, which represent those of Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate/Formosa satellite 3, are assimilated into the Thermosphere‐Ionosphere‐Electrodynamics General Circulation Model using the local ensemble transform Kalman filter during the 26 September 2011 geomagnetic storm. During each analysis step, the observation vector is augmented with five synthetic vertical profiles optimally placed to target electron density errors, using our targeted observation strategy. Forecast improvement due to assimilation of augmented vertical profiles is measured with the root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) of analyzed electron density, averaged over 600 km regions centered around the augmented vertical profile locations. Assimilating vertical profiles with targeted locations yields about 60%–80% reduction in electron density RMSE, compared to a 15% average reduction when assimilating randomly placed vertical profiles. Assimilating vertical profiles whose locations target the zonal component of neutral winds (Un) yields on average a 25% RMSE reduction in Un estimates, compared to a 2% average improvement obtained with randomly placed vertical profiles. These results demonstrate that our targeted strategy can improve data assimilation efforts during extreme events by detecting regions where additional observations would provide the largest benefit to the forecast.
Empirical radiation belt models: Comparison with in situ data and implications for environment definition
Authors: de Soria‐Santacruz Pich Maria , Jun Insoo , Evans Robin
Published: August 2017

The empirical AP8/AE8 model has been the de facto Earth's radiation belts engineering reference for decades. The need from the community for a better model incubated the development of AP9/AE9/SPM, which addresses several shortcomings of the old model. We provide additional validation of AP9/AE9 by comparing in situ electron and proton data from Jason‐2, Polar Orbiting Environmental Satellites (POES), and the Van Allen Probes spacecraft with the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles from AE9/AP9 and with the model outputs from AE8/AP8. The relatively short duration of Van Allen Probes and Jason‐2 missions means that their measurements are most certainly the result of specific climatological conditions. In low Earth orbit (LEO), the Jason‐2 proton flux is better reproduced by AP8 compared to AP9, while the POES electron data are well enveloped by AE9 5th and 95th percentiles. The shape of the South Atlantic anomaly (SAA) from Jason‐2 data is better captured by AP9 compared to AP8, while the peak SAA flux is better reproduced by AP8. The <1.5 MeV inner belt electrons from Magnetic Electron Ion Spectrometer (MagEIS) are well enveloped by AE9 5th and 95th percentiles, while AE8 overpredicts the measurements. In the outer radiation belt, MagEIS and Relativistic Electron and Proton Telescope (REPT) electrons closely follow the median estimate from AE9, while AP9 5th and 95th percentiles generally envelope REPT proton measurements in the inner belt and slot regions. While AE9/AP9 offer the flexibility to specify the environment with different confidence levels, the dose and trapped proton peak flux for POES and Jason‐2 trajectories from the AE9/AP9 50th percentile and above are larger than the estimates from the AE8/AP8 models.
Metal–Organic Framework Derived Co3O4/TiO2/Si Heterostructured Nanorod Array Photoanodes for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Tang Rui , Zhou Shujie , Yuan Zhimin , Yin Longwei
Published: August 2017

A novel hierarchical structured photoanode based on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)‐derived porous Co3O4‐modified TiO2 nanorod array grown on Si (MOFs‐derived Co3O4/TiO2/Si) is developed as photoanode for efficiently photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation. The ternary Co3O4/TiO2/Si heterojunction displays enhanced carrier separation performance and electron injection efficiency. In the ternary system, an abnormal type‐II heterojunction between TiO2 and Si is introduced, because the conduction band and valence band position of Si are higher than those of TiO2, the photogenerated electrons from TiO2 will rapidly recombine with the photogenerated holes from Si, thus leading to an efficient separation of photogenerated electrons from Si/holes from TiO2 at the TiO2/Si interface, greatly improving the separation efficiency of photogenerated hole within TiO2 and enhances the photogenerated electron injection efficiency in Si. While the MOFs‐derived Co3O4 obviously improves the optical‐response performance and surface water oxidation kinetics due to the large specific surface area and porous channel structure. Compared with MOFs‐derived Co3O4/TiO2/FTO photoanode, the synergistic function in the MOFs‐derived Co3O4/TiO2/Si NR photoanode brings greatly enhanced photoconversion efficiency of 0.54% (1.04 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode) and photocurrent density of 2.71 mA cm−2 in alkaline electrolyte. This work provides promising methods for constructing high‐performance PEC water splitting photoanode based on MOFs‐derived materials.
Dual Near‐Infrared Two‐Photon Microscopy for Deep‐Tissue Dopamine Nanosensor Imaging
Authors: Bonis‐O'Donnell Jackson T. Del , Page Ralph H. , Beyene Abraham G. , Tindall Eric G. , McFarlane Ian R. , Landry Markita P.
Published: August 2017

A key limitation for achieving deep imaging in biological structures lies in photon absorption and scattering leading to attenuation of fluorescence. In particular, neurotransmitter imaging is challenging in the biologically relevant context of the intact brain for which photons must traverse the cranium, skin, and bone. Thus, fluorescence imaging is limited to the surface cortical layers of the brain, only achievable with craniotomy. Herein, this study describes optimal excitation and emission wavelengths for through‐cranium imaging, and demonstrates that near‐infrared emissive nanosensors can be photoexcited using a two‐photon 1560 nm excitation source. Dopamine‐sensitive nanosensors can undergo two‐photon excitation, and provide chirality‐dependent responses selective for dopamine with fluorescent turn‐on responses varying between 20% and 350%. The two‐photon absorption cross‐section and quantum yield of dopamine nanosensors are further calculated, and a two‐photon power law relationship for the nanosensor excitation process is confirmed. Finally, the improved image quality of the nanosensors embedded 2‐mm‐deep into a brain‐mimetic tissue phantom is shown, whereby one‐photon excitation yields 42% scattering, in contrast to 4% scattering when the same object is imaged under two‐photon excitation. The approach overcomes traditional limitations in deep‐tissue fluorescence microscopy, and can enable neurotransmitter imaging in the biologically relevant milieu of the intact and living brain.
Tailored Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanostructures: Synthesis, Modification, and Sensing Applications
Authors: Chen Lichan , Song Jibin
Published: August 2017

Various beneficial properties of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN) have been discovered during the promotion of its visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic activity for water splitting. These properties enable g‐CN working as a sensing signal transducer with multiple output modes. In this review, state‐of‐the‐art sensing applications of tailored g‐CN nanostructures in the recent years are presented. Initially, g‐CN nanoarchitectures featuring large surface areas, abundance of active sites, and high dispersity in water are presented along with their preparation methods. Then, sensing applications of these g‐CN nanoarchitectures are described in sequence of the immobilization of recognition elements; semiconductor and electron donating properties derive signaling transduction modes, and efficient approaches for improving sensing performances. The review is concluded with a summary and some perspectives on the challenges and future possibilities of this research field.
Vielfalt der Eichengallen
Authors: Petrischak Hannes
Published: August 2017

Vorwiegend im Spätsommer und Herbst fallen an Zweigen und Blättern von Eichen verschiedene Arten von Gallen auf, die von unterschiedlichen Gallwespen (Cynipidae) verursacht werden. Am bekanntesten sind die großen, runden Galläpfel. Aber auch in Linsen, Eichenrosen, Seidenknöpfen und anderen bizarren Gebilden wachsen die Larven der kleinen Hautflügler heran.
Volkszählung in der Zelle – wer bindet RNA?
Authors: Köster Tino
Published: August 2017

mRNAs und Proteine gehen in der Zelle oft eine Partnerschaft ein. Die neue „mRNA interactome capture“ Methode ermöglicht es, alle Proteine zu erfassen, die in der Zelle an mRNAs gebunden sind. Dazu werden RNA‐bindende Proteine und mRNAs in der Zelle quervernetzt. Isoliert man dann selektiv die mRNAs, fängt man gleichzeitig auch die an mRNAs gebundenen Proteine ein.
Amlodipine‐induced gingival enlargement
Authors: Koratala Abhilash , Jamalpur Indirakshi , Mogili Harikrishna Reddy
Published: August 2017

Key Clinical Message

The three most common classes of medications implicated in drug‐induced gum enlargement are anticonvulsives, calcineurin inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. Treatment primarily consists of withdrawing the offending agent whenever possible, in addition to maintaining good oral hygiene. Gingivectomy or flap surgery may be needed in resistant cases.
Facile Synthesis of Monodisperse Copper–Platinum Alloy Nanoparticles and Their Superb Catalysis in the Hydrolytic Dehydrogenation of Ammonia Borane and Hydrazine Borane
Authors: Karaca Tuğba , Sevim Melike , Metin Önder
Published: August 2017

Among the all emergent chemical hydrogen‐storage materials, B‐N‐H compounds, especially ammonia borane (AB) and hydrazine borane (HB), appear to be the most favorable ones owing to their advantageous features. However, hydrogen generation from these compounds in an efficient and controllable way is required for the development of new catalytic systems. We report herein a facile wet‐chemical synthesis of a new nanocatalyst, namely, monodisperse CuPt alloy nanoparticles (NPs) supported on Ketjen Black (KB‐CuPt), that exhibits unprecedented catalytic activity in the hydrolytic dehydrogenation of AB and HB with initial turnover frequencies (TOF) of 859 and 832 mol
 molPt−1 min−1, respectively, under ambient conditions. The reported TOF values are record among all Pt‐based catalysts that have been tested in both hydrolysis reactions hitherto. This study also includes detailed kinetics of the KB‐Cu68Pt32‐catalyzed hydrolytic dehydrogenation of both AB and HB studied on a variety of parameters.
Inherently Chiral Calixarenes: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Arnott Gareth E.
Published: August 2017

This article looks at the chemistry surrounding the concept of inherently chiral calixarenes (ICCs), whose synthesis and application have only recently being realised. One challenge in the area of ICC chemistry is the sheer breadth and scope for installing different aspects of inherent chirality. The aim of this article is not to cover every known method, but rather to give the reader an overview of the main themes that have emerged in this area, including more recent additions to the literature. This overview will also touch on the very limited reports on the applications of ICCs which give a glimpse into the potential these compounds may have in future studies.
The association between patient attitudes and values and the strength of consideration for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in a population‐based sample of breast cancer patients
Authors: Hawley Sarah T. , Griffith Kent A. , Hamilton Ann S. , Ward Kevin C. , Morrow Monica , Janz Nancy K. , Katz Steven J. , Jagsi Reshma
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Little is known about how the individual decision styles and values of breast cancer patients at the time of treatment decision making are associated with the consideration of different treatment options and specifically with the consideration of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM).

METHODS

Newly diagnosed patients with early‐stage breast cancer who were treated in 2013‐2014 were identified through the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries of Los Angeles and Georgia and were surveyed approximately 7 months after surgery (n = 2578; response rate, 71%). The primary outcome was the consideration of CPM (strong vs less strong). The association between patients' values and decision styles and strong consideration was assessed with multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Approximately one‐quarter of women (25%) reported strong/very strong consideration of CPM, and another 29% considered it moderately/weakly. Decision styles, including a rational‐intuitive approach to decision making, varied. The factors most valued by women at the time of treatment decision making were as follows: avoiding worry about recurrence (82%) and reducing the need for more surgery (73%). In a multivariate analysis, patients who preferred to make their own decisions, those who valued avoiding worry about recurrence, and those who valued avoiding radiation significantly more often strongly considered CPM (P < .05), whereas those who reported being more logical and those who valued keeping their breast did so less often.

CONCLUSIONS

Many patients considered CPM, and the consideration was associated with both decision styles and values. The variability in decision styles and values observed in this study suggests that formally evaluating these characteristics at or before the initial treatment encounter could provide an opportunity for improving patient clinician discussions. Cancer 2017;123:4547‐4555. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Improved impossible differential and biclique cryptanalysis of HIGHT
Authors: Azimi Seyyed Arash , Ahmadi Siavash , Ahmadian Zahra , Mohajeri Javad , Aref Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2017

HIGHT is a lightweight block cipher introduced in CHES 2006 by Hong et al as a block cipher suitable for low‐resource applications. In this paper, we propose improved impossible differential and biclique attacks on HIGHT block cipher both exploiting the permutation‐based property of the cipher's key schedule algorithm as well as its low diffusion. For impossible differential attack, we found a new 17‐round impossible differential characteristic that enables us to propose a new 27‐round impossible differential attack. The total time complexity of the attack is 2120.4 where an amount of 259.3 chosen plaintext‐ciphertext pairs and 2107.4 memory are required. We also instantiate a new biclique cryptanalysis of HIGHT, which is based on the new idea of splitting each of the forward and backward keys into 2 parts where the computations associated to each one are performed independently. The time complexity and data complexity of this attack are 2125.7 and 242, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the fastest biclique attack on full‐round HIGHT.
Cation‐ and Solvent‐Induced Supramolecular Aggregation Studies of Crown Ether‐Containing Dinuclear Alkynylgold(I) Isocyanide Complexes
Authors: Leung Frankie Chi‐Ming , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah
Published: August 2017

A series of crown ether‐based dinuclear bis(alkynyl)‐bridged gold(I) isocyanide complexes has been designed, synthesized, and characterized. The intramolecular Au···Au interactions of these complexes are used to bind potassium ions. Most of the bis(crown ether)‐containing gold(I) complexes are found to obey the 1:1 binding mode towards K+. Upon addition of K+ ions, the sandwich complex of crown ether can be formed, which brings the two gold(I) centers into close proximity, resulting in the switching on of the Au···Au interaction. The influence of the length of the bridging ligands between the two AuI centers has also been studied. Apart from the potassium ion‐induced intramolecular assembly, intermolecular Au···Au interactions of the crown ether‐containing dinuclear gold(I) complexes have also been demonstrated by varying the solvent composition.
Cyclisation To Form Small, Medium and Large Rings by Use of Catalysed and Uncatalysed Azide–Alkyne Cycloadditions (AACs)
Authors: Barlow Thomas M. A. , Tourwé Dirk , Ballet Steven
Published: August 2017

This microreview briefly summarises recent developments in cyclisation to afford small, medium and large rings (five to 30 members) by way of both catalysed and uncatalysed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (AAC). The standard AAC reactions – intramolecular Huisgen, CuAAC and RuAAC – are presented, as well as some of their contemporary variations. In addition, we present useful strategies for overcoming common problems encountered in these reactions.
Recent advances in microscale separation
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Wang Weiwei , Jia Mengqi , Liu Rangdong , Liu Qing , Xiao Han , Li Jing , Xue Yun , Wang Yan , Yan Chao
Published: August 2017

This review focuses on the recent advances on microscale separation technology, particularly on the new development on column and detection technologies in electrophoretic and chromatographic separation modes (i.e., CE, CEC, cLC, etc.). Representative examples illustrate also applications on the small molecules, peptides, proteins, polysaccharides, chiral and so on. 246 relevant articles are cited covering the literature published from 2013 to May 2017.
Enhanced performance of microbial fuel cell using carbon microspheres modified graphite anode
Authors: Liu Jianbo , Liu Yuanfeng , Feng Chang , Wang Zaizhao , Jia Tongtong , Gong Lei , Xu Likun
Published: August 2017

In the present work, dual‐chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) was constructed, in which anaerobic sludge was used as the inoculum and potassium ferricyanide as the electron acceptor. We have investigated the untapped potential of carbon microspheres modified graphite anode (CGA) fabricated by hydrothermal and calcinations method in the MFCs operation. The results showed that the CGA could be utilized as a novel and efficient MFC anode. The output power of the MFC involved with CGA is approximately 358 mW·m−2, which is 3.1 times of the counterpart MFC with graphite anode (GA). Furthermore, this MFC showed a 68% chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rate of the wastewater. Through further analysis, the CGA could improve the specific surface area and enhance the adsorption of microorganism, which could efficiently favor the electron transfer rate between the microorganism and external circuit, resulting in the increase of the electrochemical activity of MFC.
Evaluating water table response to rainfall events in a shallow aquifer and canal system
Authors: Zhang Meijing , Singh Harsh Vardhan , Migliaccio Kati W. , Kisekka Isaya
Published: August 2017

Shallow aquifers typically have greater hydrologic connectivity and response to recharge and changes in surface water management practices than deeper aquifers and are therefore often managed to reduce the risk of flooding. Quantification of the water table elevation response under different management scenarios provides valuable information in shallow aquifer systems to assess indirect influences of such modifications. The episodic master recession method was applied to the 15‐min water table elevation and NEXRAD rainfall data for 6 wells to identify water table response and individual rainfall events. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of rainfall, water table elevation, canal stage, site‐specific characteristics, and canal structure modification/water management practice on the fluctuations in water table elevations using multiple/stepwise multiple linear regression techniques. With the modification of canal structure and operation adjustment, significant difference existed in water table response in the southern wells due to its relative downstream position regarding the general groundwater flow direction and the structural modification locations. On average, water table response height and flood risk were lower after than before the structure modification to canals. The effect of rainfall event size on the height of water table response was greater than the effect of antecedent water table elevation and canal stage on the height of water table response. Other factors including leakance of the canal bed sediment, specific yield, and rainfall on i − 1 day had significant effects on the height of water table response as well. Antecedent water table elevation and canal stage had greater and more linear effects on the height of water table response after the management changes to canals. Variation in water table response height/rainfall event size ratio was attributed to difference in Sy, antecedent soil water content, hydraulic gradient, rainfall size, and run‐off ratio. After the structure modification, water table response height/rainfall event size ratio demonstrated more linear and proportional relationship with antecedent water table elevation and canal stage.
A clean self reduces bribery intent
Authors: Li Chao , Liu Li , Zheng Wenwen , Dang Jianning , Liang Yuan
Published: August 2017

The present research aimed at investigating the effect of physical cleanliness on bribery intent and the moderating role of personal need for structure (PNS) on this relationship. In Study 1, we used questionnaires to establish the correlation between bodily cleanliness and bribery intent. In Study 2, we examined the effect by priming sense of self‐cleanliness. Study 3 was conducted outside a public bath to test our finding that physical purity decreases bribery intent again; we further found that individuals with high PNS showed no reduction in bribery intent even after cleaning themselves. We thus connected physical cleanliness with the corruption field and improved our understanding of its underlying moderating mechanism.
Pmepa1 induced by RANKL‐p38 MAPK pathway has a novel role in osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Funakubo Noboru , Xu Xianghe , Kukita Toshio , Nakamura Seiji , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Kukita Akiko
Published: August 2017

Osteoclasts are multinucleated cells formed by fusion of preosteoclasts (POCs) derived from cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage. We have reported a culture system that supports the formation of POCs from stroma‐depleted rat bone marrow cells. Global gene expression analysis of this culture system identified genes highly expressed in POCs. Here, we have analyzed the expression and function of one of these highly expressed genes, prostate transmembrane protein androgen induced 1 (Pmepa1), a target of TGF‐β and binds Nedd4 ubiquitin ligase, which plays a role in intracellular trafficking. We show here that the expression of Pmepa1 was strongly induced by RANKL in mouse bone marrow macrophage and in the osteoclast precursor cell line RAW‐D. The expression of Pmepa1 was increased at 24 hr of culture, but was decreased at 72 hr. Pmepa1 protein was localized to intracellular vesicle membrnane of mononuclear cells, some of which were cathepsin‐K positive. RANKL‐induced expression of Pmepa1 was significantly reduced by inhibitors of p38 MAPK signaling. Pmepa1 siRNA suppressed the formation of osteoclasts in RAW‐D cells, and inhibited the expression of cathepsin K and c‐fos but not RANK. In addition, inhibition of Pmepa1 expression reduced the surface expression of RANK in RAW‐D cells induced by RANKL. These results demonstrate that Pmepa1 is induced by RANK‐p38 MAPK pathway signaling, and upregulates cell surface expression of RANK, suggesting that Pmepa1 plays a role in osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast signaling.
Effects of levan‐type fructan on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, diarrhoea scores, faecal shedding of total lactic acid bacteria and coliform bacteria, and faecal gas emission in weaning pigs
Authors: Lei Xin Jian , Kim Yong Min , Park Jae Hong , Baek Dong Heon , Nyachoti Charles Martin , Kim In Ho
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

The use of antibiotics as growth promoters in feed has been fully or partially banned in several countries. The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of levan‐type fructan on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal shedding of lactic acid bacteria and coliform bacteria, diarrhoea scores, and faecal gas emission in weaning pigs. A total of 144 weaning pigs [(Yorkshire × Landrace) × Duroc] were randomly allocated to four diets: corn–soybean meal‐based diets supplemented with 0, 0.1, 0.5, or 1.0 g kg−1 levan‐type fructan during this 42‐day experiment.

RESULTS

During days 0 to 21 and 0 to 42, average daily gain and average daily feed intake were linearly increased (P < 0.01) with increasing dietary levan‐type fructan inclusion. The apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, and gross energy were linearly increased (P < 0.001) with increasing dietary levan‐type fructan content. With increasing levels of levan‐type fructan, faecal lactic acid bacteria counts were linearly increased (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that dietary supplementation with increasing levan‐type fructan enhanced growth performance, improved nutrient digestibility, and increased faecal lactic acid bacteria counts in weaning pigs linearly. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Screening bioactive quality control markers of QiShenYiQi dripping pills based on the relationship between the ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography fingerprint and vascular protective activity
Authors: Zhuo Limeng , Peng Jingjing , Zhao Yunli , Li Dongxiang , Xie Xiuman , Tong Ling , Yu Zhiguo
Published: August 2017

Traditional Chinese medicine consists of complex phytochemical constituents. Selecting appropriate analytical markers of traditional Chinese medicine is a critical step in quality control. Currently, the combination of fingerprinting and efficacy evaluation is considered as a useful method for screening active ingredients in complex mixtures. This study was designed to develop an orthogonal partial least squares model for screening bioactive quality control markers of QishenYiqi dripping pills based on the fingerprint–efficacy relationship. First, the chemical fingerprints of 49 batches of QishenYiqi dripping pill samples were established by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector. Second, ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry was exploited to systematically investigate the 36 copossessing fingerprint components in QishenYiqi dripping pills. The vascular protective activity of QishenYiqi dripping pills was determined by using a cell counting kit‐8 assay. Finally, fingerprint–efficacy relationship was established by orthogonal partial least squares model. The results indicated that ten components exhibited strong correlation with vascular protective activity, and these were preliminarily screened as quality control markers. The present study provided a novel idea for the study of the pharmacodynamic material basis and quality evaluation of QishenYiqi dripping pills.