bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR ORGANIC FARMING AND AGRICULTURAL
PRODUCER GROUPS – ASSUMPTIONS AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS
Authors: Brodzińska Katarzyna
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate selected actions supported within the CAP in the context of ability to create
nested market which can facilitate the development of local economy. The research material consists of ARMA, ARR,
and AFQI data. A horizontal comparative analysis was applied for selected specifications of organic farming and
GAP for the year 2016, and a vertical comparative analysis for years 2004-2016. The analyses conducted show that
the support system for organic farming and GAP favours the development of rural areas to a limited extent, and it is
necessary to search for new system solutions. Decentralization of the financial support system for GAP as a part of
CAP could lead to the development of nested markets for both organic and conventional products.
THE EFFICIENCY ON INVESTMENTS OF CO2 EMISSION ABATEMENT.
A CASE STUDY OF PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY OF THE EUROPEAN FUNDS
FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF USE OF RES IN LUBELSKIE VOIVODSHIP
Authors: Gradziuk Piotr
Published: November 2017

The paper presents an assessment of economic efficiency of investment expenditures on the reduction of CO2 emissions by use of
renewable energy sources. The source data were obtain from the Department of Regional Operational Programme in the Marshal’s
Office for Lubelskie voivodeship in Lublin and the Department of European Funds in Ministry of Energy. Analyses show that in the
Lubelskie voivodeship the total value of completed renewable energy investments under investigated programmes and measures
amounted to 360.9 million PLN, in which 284.9 million PLN came from the funding. The largest amount of funds was allocated to
the installation of solar systems for the preparation of hot tap water (87.7%). The rest were spent on photovoltaics (4.6%), biomass
boiler rooms (4.2%) and biogas plants: agricultural (2.8%) and in sewage treatment plants (0,7%). The most effective in reduction
of CO2 were biomass-fired boilers (793 PLN/Mg CO2) and biogas plants (1,024-2,344 PLN/Mg CO2). The highest rates were
recorded for photovoltaic installations (6,193 PLN/Mg CO2) and solar collectors (4631 PLN/Mg CO2). The key factor affecting
these values were significant differences in the amount of produced energy and investment expenditures per unit of installed capacity.
DIVERSIFICATION OF ALCOHOL PRODUCTS CONSUMPTION IN EUROPE
Authors: Jałowiecki Piotr , Surtel Izabela
Published: November 2017

The paper presents the results of research on the differentiation of alcohol consumption in European
countries in the years 2000-2013. In the study period, the trend of consumption of alcoholic products from
the growing to the decreasing one was changed. This change was in the years 2007-2008 and is most likely
related to the financial crisis that has just started. The consumption of alcoholic beverages in Europe is
characterized by low levels of diversification over the period considered, which means that, despite the
aforementioned trend change, it was quite stable. The differentiation of consumption levels of alcoholic
beverages in individual countries was also assessed and classified in terms of their level.
COMPETITIVENESS OF POLISH AGRI-FOOD EXPORT ON WORLD
AND V4 MARKET
Authors: Rytko Anna
Published: November 2017

At work, an issue of the competitiveness of Polish agri-food exports was analysed. Purpose of the
study was to estimate the level of competitiveness of the Polish export commodity groups related to the
agri-food sector on the markets of the Visegrad Group countries and the world market and an indication
of the groups and markets with potential for development in the future as also those losing market shares.
In the framework of the implementation of the aim, it was decided to make the indicator analysis and
estimate the comparative advantage by using a RCA ratio and absolute advantage using AGE. Polish
export in the year 2015 measured indicator of RCA, was competitive on the world market in the case of
animals and products of animal origin and food and beverages. RCA < 1 was for plant and products of
plant origin. In the case of animals Polish exports grew at the same rate as world exports, in the case
of plants were large fluctuations in AGE. The best situation was in a group of food and beverages, where
AGE in most years were above zero.
CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE ASSESSMENT OF FARMERS
Authors: Syp Alina , Żukiewicz Artur
Published: November 2017

Agriculture is one of the major anthropogenic contributors to climate changes and, at the same
time, the one that can be seriously affected by the results of these changes, extreme weather conditions
in particular. This paper presents the perception of climate change and its potential influence on the
agricultural holdings of farmers, based on the survey conducted in łęczyński county (125 respondents).
According to the survey, 39% of farmers believe that both human activity and natural environmental
processes are equally responsible for climate changes. 37% of respondents claimed that climate changes
are caused by human activity, while 24% of the surveyed farmers attributed those changes to natural
environmental processes only. The vast majority of respondents is concerned that a possible consequence
to the occurring changes may be increased costs of agricultural production (69%) and lowered standards
of living (61%). The conducted survey proved high awareness of the need to protect the environment and
soil among the farmers. 73% of them considers environmental regulations to have a positive impact on
the agriculture and its future, but also to increase the work input of farmers and reduce their incomes.
THE NATURE AND OBJECTIVES OF NATIONAL AND REGIONAL SMART
SPECIALISATIONS IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Authors: Wiatrak Andrzej Piotr
Published: November 2017

The content of the article consists of the following issues: essence of intelligent specialization strategies,
characterization and analysis of national and regional smart specialization in the agricultural sector in
Poland and their evaluation. The aim of the article was to show the assumptions and requirements of
intelligent specialization and to present them on the example of the agricultural sector in Poland. The
observations – based on the analysis of relevant literature, selected documents of the EU (including
Poland) and the author’s own reflections – indicate that the basis of smart specialization is the potential of
regions, community involvement and the use of knowledge and public support. Intelligent specializations
in the agricultural sector most often include bio-economy, innovative technologies in the agricultural
sector and safe food.
Do traumático ao trauma: a lógica do presente permanente
Authors: Klautau Perla , Winograd Monah , Sollero-de-Campos Flavia
Published: November 2017

A partir do atendimento psicanalítico de pacientes portadores de lesões cerebrais, foi possível formular a hipótese de que, em muitos casos, o quadro psicopatológico que se instala após a percepção e a experiência das sequelas de adoecimentos neurológicos pode ser localizado em algum ponto entre a neurose traumática e as patologias narcísico-identitárias. Para fundamentar e ilustrar o desenvolvimento teórico dessa hipótese, apresentaremos um caso clínico no qual a compulsão à repetição é convocada como mecanismo de defesa: a experiência subjetiva de adoecimento neurológico é vivida como um golpe traumático que divide a vida entre um antes e um depois. A consequência disso é que os recursos para a elaboração psíquica são roubados, criando ou intensificando zonas psíquicas não integradas. Desse modo, é instalada uma temporalidade baseada em um presente permanente, isto é, num tempo que não fica para trás e tampouco fornece uma abertura para o que está por vir. 
Maternidade e novos modos de vida para a mulher contemporânea
Authors: Albertuni Patrícia Shalana , Stengel Márcia
Published: November 2017

Este artigo aborda os discursos da maternidade para mulheres que participam de blogs sobre este tema. Trata-se de pesquisa qualitativa, pautada na discussão da psicossociologia da família, que analisou posts redigidos pelas autoras e seus comentários escritos pelas leitoras de dois blogs públicos (Macetes de Mãe e Manual da Família Moderna), com base na análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Como resultado, obtiveram-se três categorias e, neste artigo, trataremos da primeira: novos modos de vida da mulher. A análise nos permitiu observar diversos modos de vida femininos e interpretá-los com base em autores como Badinter, Rocha-Coutinho, Woodward e outros. Ainda que a contemporaneidade permita a escolha por posições diversas, observamos que, em todos os casos, existem cobranças sociais, permanece a expectativa de que a mulher seja mãe e mantêm-se os discursos do mito da maternidade, o que compõe um cenário de sofrimento-angústia para a mulher, complexificando essa experiência feminina. 
Saúde no trabalho de fumicultores do rs: não adoece somente quem fuma, mas também quem planta
Authors: Silva Peixoto de Castro Laura , Kieling Monteiro Janine
Published: November 2017

Este artigo investigou as vivências de sofrimento e como os fumicultores lidam com adversidades no trabalho. Participaram do estudo 15 fumicultores de Dom Feliciano-RS. O instrumento empregado foi a técnica dos grupos focais. No exame dos dados, realizou-se a análise de conteúdo, definindo categorias a priori com base na abordagem teórica da psicodinâmica do trabalho dejouriana. O não reconhecimento, remuneração baixa e instável, condições laborais danosas e sobrecarga de trabalho foram destacados como elementos desencadeadores do sofrimento. Muitos trabalhadores, mesmo cientes da sua exploração, responsabilizam-se individualmente pela maioria dos seus atos: culpam-se por destinarem poucas horas ao descanso e lazer e por seu endividamento. Nesse cenário de precarização desencadeado pela organização do trabalho, os trabalhadores vivenciam desavenças familiares, drogadição, trabalho infantil e suicídio. Evidenciou-se que fumicultores precisam ter “voz” para que seja lançada sua crítica à sociedade e que se apropriem dessa construção reflexiva, a fim de ressignificar seu trabalho.
Fostering Productive Statistical Skepticism
Authors: Strachota Susanne , Reiten Lindsay
Published: November 2017

Numbers and statistical representations (e.g., graphs, charts, etc.) are often used to mislead people into believing an argument. For example, in fall 2014 Wisconsin was considering whether to raise the minimum wage. A radio commercial claimed, “Ninety-eight percent of the employers in this state are small-business owners….” The commercial suggested that the state's employers would face severe financial difficulties if the minimum wage were raised. We were struck by the misleading nature of this commercial: After all, ninety-eight percent of the employees in this state do not work for small-business owners.
Using GeoGebra to Help Students Understand the Inverse Cosine Function
Authors: Strayer Jeremy F. , Tessema Amdeberhan
Published: November 2017

GeoGebra is an extremely powerful tool for mathematics teaching and learning. In this article, we share how to create a GeoGebra worksheet that can be used to display dynamically changing quantities. This worksheet can support students as they make meaning of the inverse cosine function.
Exploring Triangles
Authors: Reiser Elana
Published: November 2017

This exploration, with activity sheets, engages students in mathematical argumentation and reasoning using triangles.
Mathematics on Thresholds: Kolams
Authors: Chahine Iman C. , Subramanian Umamaheswari
Published: November 2017

A real-world problem explores the geometry of kolams.
Post-It® Notes Art: Area and Perimeter
Authors: Bittman Erin , Moomaw Sally
Published: November 2017

When children in this third-grade classroom used twenty-five square sticky notes to design artwork, they predicted that all the perimeters would be the same. Surprise!
Multiple‐model multiple‐hypothesis filter with Gaussian mixture reduction
Authors: Eras‐Herrera W.Y. , Mesquita A.R. , Teixeira B.O.S.
Published: November 2017

We address the problem of state estimation for Markov jump nonlinear systems and present a modified version of the multiple‐model and multiple‐hypothesis (M3H) algorithm to suboptimally solve it. In such systems, the exact filter must track an exponentially increasing number of possible trajectories. Therefore, practical solutions must approximate the exact filter trading off filter precision for computational speed. In this contribution, we employ Gaussian mixture reduction methods in the merging of hypotheses of the original M3H. Thus, information from both the analog and digital states is used to merge the hypotheses, whereas only information from the digital state is employed in the original method. In our numerical results, we show that the proposed method outperforms the original M3H when increased precision constraints are imposed to the filter.
React‐on‐Demand (RoD) Fabrication of Highly Conductive Metal–Polymer Hybrid Structure for Flexible Electronics via One‐Step Direct Writing or Printing
Authors: Zhang Tengyuan , Li Junming , Liu Jin , Yang Jun
Published: November 2017

As a fast prototyping technique, direct writing of flexible electronics is gaining popularity for its low‐cost, simplicity, ultrahigh portability, and ease of use. However, the latest handwritten circuits reported either have relative low conductivity or require additional post‐treatment, keeping this emerging technology away from end‐users. Here, a one‐step react‐on‐demand (RoD) method for fabricating flexible circuits with ultralow sheet resistance, enhanced safety, and durability is proposed. With the special functionalized substrate, a real‐time 3D synthesis of silver plates in microscale is triggered on‐demand right beneath the tip in the water‐swelled polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coating, forming a 3D metal–polymer hybrid structure of ≈7 µm with one single stroke. The as‐fabricated silver traces show an enhanced durability and ultralow sheet resistance down to 4 mΩ sq−1 which is by far the lowest sheet resistance reported in literatures achieved by direct writing. Meanwhile, PVA seal small particles inside the film, adding additional safety to this technology. Since neither nanomaterials nor a harsh fabrication environment are required, the proposed method remains low cost, user friendly, and accessible to end users. With little effort, the RoD approach can be extended to various printing systems, offering a particle‐free, sintering‐free solution for high‐resolution, high‐speed production of flexible electronics.
Memristor with Ag‐Cluster‐Doped TiO2 Films as Artificial Synapse for Neuroinspired Computing
Authors: Yan Xiaobing , Zhao Jianhui , Liu Sen , Zhou Zhenyu , Liu Qi , Chen Jingsheng , Liu Xiang Yang
Published: November 2017

Memristor, based on the principle of biological synapse, is recognized as one of the key devices in confronting the bottleneck of classical von Neumann computers. However, conventional memristors are difficult to continuously adjust the conduction and dutifully mimic the biosynapse function. Here, TiO2 films with self‐assembled Ag nanoclusters implemented by gradient Ag dopant are employed to achieve enhanced memristor performance. The memristors exhibit gradual both potentiating and depressing conduction under positive and negative pulse trains, which can fully emulate excitation and inhibition of biosynapse. Moreover, comprehensive biosynaptic functions and plasticity, including the transition from short‐term memory to long‐term memory, long‐term potentiation and depression, spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity, and paired‐pulse facilitation, are implemented with the fabricated memristors in this work. The applied pulses with a width of hundreds of nanoseconds timescale are beneficial to realize fast learning and computing. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy observations clearly demonstrate that Ag clusters redistribute to form Ag conductive filaments between Ag and Pt electrode under electrical field at ON‐state device. The experimental data confirm that the oxides doped with Ag clusters have the potential for mimicking biosynaptic behavior, which is essential for the further creation of artificial neural systems.
Continuous Melt‐Drawing of Highly Aligned Flexible and Stretchable Semiconducting Microfibers for Organic Electronics
Authors: Zhao Yan , Gumyusenge Aristide , He Jiazhi , Qu Ge , McNutt William W. , Long Yuan , Zhang Hongyi , Huang Libai , Diao Ying , Mei Jianguo
Published: November 2017

A scalable and green approach to manufacture semiconducting microfibers from polymer melts has been demonstrated. The polymer chains are highly aligned along the microfiber's long axis direction and exhibit highly anisotropic optical properties. In addition, the polymer microfibers show good flexibility and stretchability with a yield point around 10% under a reversible stress and can be stretched up to 180% without breaking. These features are desired for future flexible, stretchable, and conformable electronics. The origin of this stretchability is studied with diketopyrrolopyrrole derivatives using different conjugation break spacers and side chains. In addition, stretchable conducting microfibers can be obtained by doping with FeCl3, which are further evaluated as organic conductors and source/drain electrodes in organic field‐effect transistors.
Construction of Complex Co3O4@Co3V2O8 Hollow Structures from Metal–Organic Frameworks with Enhanced Lithium Storage Properties
Authors: Lu Yan , Yu Le , Wu Minghong , Wang Yong , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: November 2017

A novel metal–organic‐framework‐engaged strategy is demonstrated for the preparation of multishelled Co3O4@Co3V2O8 hybrid nanoboxes. This strategy relies on the unique reaction of zeolitic imidazolate framework‐67 with the vanadium source of vanadium oxytriisopropoxide. Benefitting from the synthetic versatility, a series of nanostructures can be realized including triple‐shelled and double‐shelled Co3O4@Co3V2O8 nanoboxes and single‐shelled Co3V2O8 nanoboxes. When evaluated as electrode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, these unique hollow structures demonstrate remarkable lithium storage properties. For example, the triple‐shelled Co3O4@Co3V2O8 nanoboxes retain a high capacity of 948 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g−1.
Controllable Surface Reorganization Engineering on Cobalt Phosphide Nanowire Arrays for Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Xu Kun , Cheng Han , Lv Haifeng , Wang Jingyu , Liu Linqi , Liu Si , Wu Xiaojun , Chu Wangsheng , Wu Changzheng , Xie Yi
Published: November 2017

Developing highly efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts in alkaline media is considered significant and valuable for water splitting. Herein, it is demonstrated that surface reorganization engineering by oxygen plasma engraving on electocatalysts successfully realizes a dramatically enhanced alkaline HER activity. Taking CoP nanowire arrays grown on carbon cloth (denoted as CoP NWs/CC) as an example, the oxygen plasma engraving can trigger moderate CoOx species formation on the surface of the CoP NWs/CC, which is visually verified by the X‐ray absorption fine structure, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive spectrometer (EDS) mapping. Benefiting from the moderate CoOx species formed on the surface, which can promote the water dissociation in alkaline HER, the surface reorganization of the CoP NWs/CC realizes almost fourfold enhanced alkaline HER activity and a 180 mV decreased overpotential at 100 mA cm−2, compared with the pristine ones. More interestingly, this surface reorganization strategy by oxygen plasma engraving can also be effective to other electrocatalysts such as free‐standing CoP, Co4N, O‐CoSe2, and C‐CoSe2 nanowires, which verifies the universality of the strategy. This work thus opens up new avenues for designing alkaline HER electrocatalysts based on oxygen plasma engraving.
Spin Crossover Nanomaterials: From Fundamental Concepts to Devices
Authors: Molnár Gábor , Rat Sylvain , Salmon Lionel , Nicolazzi William , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: November 2017

Nanoscale spin crossover materials capable of undergoing reversible switching between two electronic configurations with markedly different physical properties are excellent candidates for various technological applications. In particular, they can serve as active materials for storing and processing information in photonic, mechanical, electronic, and spintronic devices as well as for transducing different forms of energy in sensors and actuators. In this progress report, a brief overview on the current state‐of‐the‐art of experimental and theoretical studies of nanomaterials displaying spin transition is presented. Based on these results, a detailed analysis and discussions in terms of finite size effects and other phenomena inherent to the reduced size scale are provided. Finally, recent research devices using spin crossover complexes are highlighted, emphasizing both challenges and prospects.
Discovery of 2D Anisotropic Dirac Cones
Authors: Feng Baojie , Zhang Jin , Ito Suguru , Arita Masashi , Cheng Cai , Chen Lan , Wu Kehui , Komori Fumio , Sugino Osamu , Miyamoto Koji , Okuda Taichi , Meng Sheng , Matsuda Iwao
Published: November 2017

2D anisotropic Dirac cones are observed in χ3 borophene, a monolayer boron sheet, using high‐resolution angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy. The Dirac cones are centered at the X and X′ points. The data also reveal that the hybridization between borophene and Ag(111) is very weak, which explains the preservation of the Dirac cones. As χ3 borophene has been predicated to be a superconductor, the results may stimulate further research interest in the novel physics of borophene, such as the interplay between Cooper pairs and the massless Dirac fermions.
Iridium(III)‐Catalyzed Regiocontrolled Direct Amidation of Isoquinolones and Pyridones
Authors: Das Debapratim , Samanta Rajarshi
Published: November 2017

Iridium(III)‐catalyzed highly regiocontrolled C3/C8 amidation of isoquinolones and C6 amidation of 2‐pyridones has been successfully accomplished with various azides. The optimized method is operationally simple with a broad substrate scope. The protocol has been found to be scalable.

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Unified Strategy to Access 6H‐Benzofuro[2,3‐b]indoles and 5,6‐Dihydroindolo[2,3‐b]indoles via UV Light‐Mediated Diradical Cyclization
Authors: Cheng Bin , Zu Bing , Li Yuntong , Zhai Shengxian , Xu Wei , Li Yun , Zhai Hongbin
Published: November 2017

A unified protocol for the construction of 6H‐benzofuro[2,3‐b]indoles and 5,6‐dihydroindolo[2,3‐b]indoles via UV light‐mediated diradical cyclization was developed and preliminary efforts were also made to functionalize at C10b position of 6H‐benzofuro[2,3‐b]indoles. This mild and facile strategy may have great potential in the syntheses of natural products and functional materials.

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High and Reversible Lithium Ion Storage in Self‐Exfoliated Triazole‐Triformyl Phloroglucinol‐Based Covalent Organic Nanosheets
Authors: Haldar Sattwick , Roy Kingshuk , Nandi Shyamapada , Chakraborty Debanjan , Puthusseri Dhanya , Gawli Yogesh , Ogale Satishchandra , Vaidhyanathan Ramanathan
Published: November 2017

Covalent organic framework (COF) can grow into self‐exfoliated nanosheets. Their graphene/graphite resembling microtexture and nanostructure suits electrochemical applications. Here, covalent organic nanosheets (CON) with nanopores lined with triazole and phloroglucinol units, neither of which binds lithium strongly, and its potential as an anode in Li‐ion battery are presented. Their fibrous texture enables facile amalgamation as a coin‐cell anode, which exhibits exceptionally high specific capacity of ≈720 mA h g−1 (@100 mA g−1). Its capacity is retained even after 1000 cycles. Increasing the current density from 100 mA g−1 to 1 A g−1 causes the specific capacity to drop only by 20%, which is the lowest among all high‐performing anodic COFs. The majority of the lithium insertion follows an ultrafast diffusion‐controlled intercalation (diffusion coefficient, DLi+ = 5.48 × 10−11 cm2 s−1). The absence of strong Li‐framework bonds in the density functional theory (DFT) optimized structure supports this reversible intercalation. The discrete monomer of the CON shows a specific capacity of only 140 mA h g−1 @50 mA g−1 and no sign of lithium intercalation reveals the crucial role played by the polymeric structure of the CON in this intercalation‐assisted conductivity. The potentials mapped using DFT suggest a substantial electronic driving‐force for the lithium intercalation. The findings underscore the potential of the designer CON as anode material for Li‐ion batteries.
Pd/C: An efficient and reusable catalyst for the synthesis of flavones via carbonylation of aryl halides
Authors: Lei Yizhu , Li Zhi , Wan Yali , Zhou Xiao‐Yu , Li Guangxing , Shi Kaiyi
Published: November 2017

This work describes an efficient and mild approach for the synthesis of flavones via catalytic carbonylation of aryl halides with 2‐hydroxyacetophenone using the commercial Pd/C as an efficient, heterogeneous and recyclable catalyst. Under balloon pressure of CO, 0.6 mol% Pd/C is sufficient for moderate yields of flavones for the carbonylation of aryl iodides under phosphine‐free conditions and aryl bromides in the presence of phosphine ligand. The catalyst is easily separable and shows significant recyclability. Moreover, the reaction mechanism was discussed, and a possible mechanism that contains two different cyclisation pathways was proposed.
Synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic activities of novel bentonite‐supported BiOCl–ZnO heterojunction (BiOCl–ZnO–Bentonite) under UV light
Authors: Vaizoğullar Ali İmran
Published: November 2017

Herein, we report the synthesis of a new composite catalyst immobilized on bentonite surface (BiOCl–ZnO–Bent). The samples were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, photoluminescence, and Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (UV‐Vis DRS) analyses. BiOCl were observed as nanosheets, whereas ZnO particles were nearly spherical (SEM images). Bentonite clay was used to increase the surface area of the samples. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area of Bi/Zn/Bent (50%) catalyst was lower than that of the ZnO–Bent and BiOCl–Bent. The prepared photocatalyst decomposed 10 mg L−1 of 3‐chlorophenol (3‐CP) within 180 min under UV light. Bi/Zn/Bent (50%) catalyst showed the highest photocatalytic activity. A proposed degradation mechanism for Bi/Zn/Bent (50%) composite is also discussed.
Tornado identification and forewarning with very high frequency windprofiler radars
Authors: Hocking Anna , Hocking Wayne K.
Published: November 2017

The ability of very high frequency (VHF) (~50 MHz) windprofilers to measure backscatter, winds and turbulence in the troposphere and the lower stratosphere gives them a unique perspective not available with many other remote sounding radar techniques. This capability has been utilized to study the environment of 31 tornadoes generated in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Canada over an 11‐year period. Tornadoes were mostly of Enhanced Fujita (EF) types EF0 to EF2, with one being EF3. Focus is on events which produced visible damage. Signals detected show characteristics demonstrating new informative—and potentially predictive—capabilities. A large enhancement in backscattered power immediately above the common volume of the radar and the tornadic supercell, reaching to the tropopause and beyond, when coupled with radar measurements of strong turbulence and wind speeds, provides good radar evidence of tornadic activity.
2RXS—The deepest and cleanest X‐ray all‐sky catalogue before eROSITA
Authors: Boller Th.
Published: November 2017

We have updated and improved the source catalog obtained from the ROSAT all‐sky survey. In this new version of the source catalog (Second ROSAT all‐sky survey, 2RXS), we have made a number of improvements, paying particular care to reduce spurious sources. The final catalog contains about 135,000 X‐ray sources, thereby providing the deepest and cleanest all‐sky survey to date. For each source, new data products, including spectra and light curves, were created, allowing to take full advantage of this catalog for new scientific explorations.
Cross‐tests of cosmic microwave background features in the primordial spectra
Authors: Sypsas S.
Published: November 2017

The recent Planck data on the power spectrum of temperature anisotropies of the cosmic microwave background marginally support deviations from the Λ Cold Dark Matter (CDM) model at several multipoles. With a view toward current and forthcoming observational surveys, we trace these features to other observables like the scalar bispectrum and the tensor power spectrum. A possible detection of such bumps in these channels would increase their statistical significance, shedding light on the ultraviolet mechanisms responsible for their appearance in the data.
Economic analysis of bioethanol and electricity production from sugarcane in South Africa
Authors: Petersen Abdul M. , Van der Westhuizen Willem A. , Mandegari Mohsen A. , Görgens Johann F.
Published: November 2017

An economic analysis for ethanol and electricity production in the sugarcane crushing industry in South Africa through first‐ and second‐generation technologies, and integration strategies was carried out. The analysis included capital allowances to upgrade the energy efficiencies of existing sugar mills, to allow co‐production of electricity, production of second‐generation ethanol from hemicellulose, and export of lignocellulose residues from these facilities. Methodologies included mass and energy balances in Aspen Plus® and economic models in MS Excel to determine the required selling prices for electricity, sugarcane residues and ethanol, for these investments. The required selling price for electricity for the sugarcane crushing industry was US$ 97/MWhr, while that of bagasse residues was US$ 90/ton. A first‐generation ethanol plant with electricity co‐generation from bagasse has an ethanol selling price of US$ 0.84/l, which was highly dependent of the cane price, and reduced significantly when second‐generation production from hemicelluloses of bagasse and trash was incorporated. The selling price of US$ 0.38/l for integrated second‐generation ethanol at a sugar mill was the lowest, but however, was highly dependent on technological efficiency. Standalone second‐generation ethanol was unfeasible due to the costs of the infrastructure needed to provide bagasse as a ­feedstock. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Stress degradation of edaravone: Separation, isolation and characterization of major degradation products
Authors: Baghel Madhuri , Rajput Sadhana J.
Published: November 2017

In the present study the International Conference on Harmonization‐prescribed stress degradation was carried out to study the degradation profile of edaravone. To establish a Quality by Design (QbD)‐assisted stability‐indicating assay, the reaction solutions in which different degradation products were formed were mixed. Plackett Burman and central composite design were used to screen and optimize experimental variables to resolve edaravone and its impurities with good peak symmetry using an RP C18 column. The method was validated according to International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. Seven unknown and two known degradation products were identified and characterized by LC‐MS/MS. Two major degradation products formed under thermal degradation were isolated and characterized as 4‐(4,5‐dihydro‐3‐methyl‐5‐oxo‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl‐4‐(4,5‐dihydro‐5‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)‐3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5(4H)‐one and 3‐hydroxy‐dihydro‐thiazolo[1‐(2‐methyl‐buta‐1,3dienyl)‐1‐phenylhydrazine]5‐one. The degradation pathways of degradants were proposed based on m/z values.
Dissipation, residues and risk assessment of spirotetramat and its four metabolites in citrus and soil under field conditions by LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Zhang Qingtao , Chen Yuling , Wang Shouyi , Yu Yurong , Lu Ping , Hu Deyu , Yang Zaihui
Published: November 2017

A modified Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe (QuEChERS) method for the simultaneous determination of spirotetramat and its four metabolite residues in citrus, peel, pulp and soil was developed and validated by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). The samples were extracted with acetonitrile (1%, glacial acetic acid, v/v) and purified using primary secondary amine and octadecylsilane. The limit of detection was 0.01–0.13 mg/kg, whereas that of quantification was 0.02–0.40 mg/kg for spirotetramat and its metabolites. The average recoveries of spirotetramat, spirotetramat‐enol, spirotetramat‐mono‐hydroxy, spirotetramat‐enol‐glucoside and spirotetramat‐ketohydroxy in all matrices were 73.33–107.91%, 75.93–114.85%, 76.44–100.78%, 71.46–103.19% and 73.08–105.27%, respectively, with relative standard deviations < 12.32%. The dissipation dynamics of spirotetramat in citrus and soil followed first‐order kinetics, with half‐lives of 2.3–8.5 days in the three sampling locations. The terminal residues of spirotetramat in four matrices at the three locations were measured below the 1.0 mg/kg maximum residue limit set by China, and residues were found to be concentrated on the peel. The risk assessment of citrus was evaluated using risk quotients. The risk quotient values were found to be significantly <1, suggesting that the risk to human health was negligible when using the recommended doses of spirotetramat in citrus. These results could provide guidance for the safe and proper application of spirotetramat in citrus in China.
Beating Bias in the Directed Evolution of Proteins: Combining High‐Fidelity on‐Chip Solid‐Phase Gene Synthesis with Efficient Gene Assembly for Combinatorial Library Construction
Authors: Li Aitao , Acevedo‐Rocha Carlos G. , Sun Zhoutong , Cox Tony , Xu Jia Lucy , Reetz Manfred T.
Published: November 2017

Saturation mutagenesis (SM) constitutes a widely used technique in the directed evolution of selective enzymes as catalysts in organic chemistry and in the manipulation of metabolic paths and genomes, but the quality of the libraries is far from optimal due to the inherent amino acid bias. Herein, it is shown how this fundamental problem can be solved by applying high‐fidelity solid‐phase chemical gene synthesis on silicon chips followed by efficient gene assembly. Limonene epoxide hydrolase was chosen as the catalyst in the model desymmetrization of cyclohexene oxide with the stereoselective formation of (R,R)‐ and (S,S)‐cyclohexane‐1,2‐diol. A traditional combinatorial PCR‐based SM library, produced by simultaneous randomization at several residues by using a reduced amino acid alphabet, and the respective synthetic library were constructed and compared. Statistical analysis at the DNA level with massive sequencing demonstrates that, in the synthetic approach, 97 % of the theoretically possible DNA mutants are formed, whereas the traditional SM library contained only about 50 %. Screening at the protein level also showed the superiority of the synthetic library; many highly (R,R)‐ and (S,S)‐selective variants being discovered are not found in the traditional SM library. With the prices of synthetic genes decreasing, this approach may point the way to future directed evolution.
Live‐Cell MicroRNA Imaging through MnO2 Nanosheet‐Mediated DD‐A Hybridization Chain Reaction
Authors: Ou Min , Huang Jin , Yang Xiaohai , He Xiaoxiao , Quan Ke , Yang Yanjing , Xie Nuli , Li Jing , Wang Kemin
Published: November 2017

Innovative techniques to visualize native microRNAs (miRNAs) in live cells can dramatically impact current research on the roles of miRNA in biology and medicine. Here, we report a novel approach for live‐cell miRNA imaging using a biodegradable MnO2 nanosheet‐mediated DD‐A FRET hybridization chain reaction (HCR). The MnO2 nanosheets can adsorb DNA hairpin probes and deliver them into live cells. After entering cells, the MnO2 nanosheets are degraded by cellular GSH. Then, the target miR‐21 triggers cascaded assembly of the liberated hairpin probes into long dsDNA polymers, which brings each two FAMs (donor) and one TAMRA (acceptor) into close proximity to generate significantly enhanced DD‐A FRET signals, which was discovered and proven by our previous report. We think the developed approach can serve as an excellent intracellular miRNAs detection tool, which promises the potential for biological and disease studies.
In‐hospital outcomes of transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement in end stage renal disease
Authors: Alkhalil Ahmad , Golbari Shervin , Song David , Lamba Harveen , Fares Anas , Alaiti Amer , Deo Salil , Attizzani Guilherme F. , Ibrahim Homam , Ruiz Carlos E.
Published: November 2017

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) who are at intermediate and high risk for surgery. Commercial use of TAVR has expanded to patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD).

Objectives

Compare in‐hospital outcomes of TAVR versus SAVR in ESRD patients requiring hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

ESRD patients on HD undergoing TAVR (n = 328) or SAVR (n = 697) between 2012 and 2014 were identified in the National Inpatient Sample (NIS). Propensity‐score matching method was used to minimize selection bias. Baseline characteristics and in‐hospital outcomes were compared.

Results

TAVR patients were older (75.3 vs. 61.6 years, P < 0.001) and had more comorbidities, including congestive heart failure (16.2% vs. 7.5%), diabetes mellitus (28.4% vs. 22.5%), chronic lung disease (27.7% vs. 20.4%), and peripheral vascular disease (35.1% vs. 21.2%). Propensity‐score matching yielded 175 pairs of patients matched on 30 baseline covariates. Overall in‐hospital mortality was high (9.9%) and similar between TAVR and SAVR (8% vs. 10.3%, P = 0.58). TAVR was associated with shorter length of stay (LOS) (8 vs. 14 days, P < 0.001), lower hospitalization cost ($276,448 vs. $364,280, P = 0.01), lower in‐hospital complications (60.6% vs. 76%, P = 0.003), and higher rate of home discharge (31.4% vs. 17.7%, P = 0.004) compared with SAVR.

Conclusions

Regardless of treatment modality, patients with AS on HD have high in‐hospital mortality. TAVR and SAVR have comparable in‐hospital mortality in this population. However, TAVR is associated with shorter LOS, lower hospitalization costs, lower in‐hospital complications, and higher rates of home discharge.
Electrochemical Conversion of Phthaldianilides to Phthalazin‐1,4‐diones by Dehydrogenative N−N Bond Formation
Authors: Kehl Anton , Gieshoff Tile , Schollmeyer Dieter , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: November 2017

The electrochemical synthesis of 6‐membered rings via anodic dianilide N−N coupling is challenging due to concurring benzoxazole co‐formation. The rigidity of the a phthalic acid backbone allows a novel access to phthalazin‐1,4‐diones by N−N bond formation using anodically generated amidyl radicals. Since conventional synthetic routes to phthalazin‐1,4‐diones require the use of toxic N,N′‐diarylhydrazines and generate reagent waste, a safer and more sustainable approach is required. Easy accessible starting materials, a broad scope of applicable functional groups, promising yields, and a very simple set‐up elevate this sustainable method.
Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of ω‐(Isothiocyanato)alkylphosphinates and Phosphine Oxides as Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Janczewski Łukasz , Psurski Mateusz , Świtalska Marta , Gajda Anna , Goszczyński Tomasz M. , Oleksyszyn Józef , Wietrzyk Joanna , Gajda Tadeusz
Published: November 2017

A series of 21 novel, structurally diverse ω‐(isothiocyanato)alkylphosphinates and phosphine oxides (ITCs) were designed and synthesized in moderate to good yields. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for in vitro antiproliferative activity using LoVo and LoVo/DX cancer cell lines. The biological activity of the synthesized compounds was higher than that of natural isothiocyanates such as benzyl isothiocyanate or sulforaphane. The antiproliferative activity of selected ITCs was also tested on selected cancer cell lines: A549, MESSA and MESSA/DX‐5, HL60 and HL60MX2, BALB/3T3, and 4T1. These compounds were assessed for their mechanism of action as inducers of cell‐cycle arrest and apoptosis. Ethyl (6‐isothiocyanatohexyl)(phenyl)phosphinate (71) was tested in vivo on the 4T1 cell line and demonstrated moderate antitumor activity, similar to that benzyl isothiocyanate and cyclophosphamide.
The Influence of Big (Clinical) Data and Genomics on Precision Medicine and Drug Development
Authors: Denny Joshua C. , Van Driest Sara L. , Wei Wei‐Qi , Roden Dan M.
Published: November 2017

Drug development continues to be costly and slow, with medications failing due to lack of efficacy or presence of toxicity. The promise of pharmacogenomic discovery includes tailoring therapeutics based on an individual's genetic makeup, rational drug development, and repurposing medications. Rapid growth of large research cohorts, linked to electronic health record (EHR) data, fuels discovery of new genetic variants predicting drug action, supports Mendelian randomization experiments to show drug efficacy, and suggests new indications for existing medications. New biomedical informatics and machine‐learning approaches advance the ability to interpret clinical information, enabling identification of complex phenotypes and subpopulations of patients. We review the recent history of use of “big data” from EHR‐based cohorts and biobanks supporting these activities. Future studies using EHR data, other information sources, and new methods will promote a foundation for discovery to more rapidly advance precision medicine.
Initial flow cytometric evaluation of the Clearllab lymphoid screen
Authors: Hedley B.D. , Cheng G. , Luider J. , Kern W. , Lozanski G. , Chin‐Yee I. , Lowes L.E. , Keeney M. , Careaga D. , Magari R. , Tejidor L.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Flow cytometric immunophenotyping (FCI) is an integral part in the diagnosis and classification of hematologic malignancies. FCI results also influence therapeutic decisions and disease prognosis. ClearLLab LS is a 12‐antibody 10‐color cocktail provided in dry format designed as a screen for patients suspected of having hematolymphoid disease.

Methods

A blinded comparison between ClearLLab LS, (CD8‐FITC, Kappa‐FITC,CD4‐PE, Lambda‐PE, CD19‐ECD, CD56‐PE‐Cy5.5, CD10‐PE‐Cy7, CD34‐APC, CD5‐APC‐A700, CD20‐APC‐A750, CD3‐PB, and CD45‐KrO), ClearLLab Reagents (five‐color, 17‐antibodies) and individual Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs), was conducted at four laboratories. Evaluation of ClearLLab LS was performed on 210 specimens, compared to the five‐color ClearLLab Reagents (IVD and CE‐IVD), and a subset (n = 167) to LDTs.

Results

ClearLLab LS showed good agreement to ClearLLab Reagents in detecting the absence (104/104) or presence (106/106) of abnormal populations. Of specimens with abnormal populations the ClearLLab LS agreed with the ClearLLab Reagent for neoplasm maturity assessment (70/70 mature and 36/36 immature). Out of 167 specimens with LDTs results, 86 contained abnormal population(s), ClearLLab LS detected 82 (95.3%) of cases. Of the 4 cases not detected by ClearLLab LS, 3 were plasma cell neoplasms and 1 was a mature T cell malignancy. Eighty‐one samples with no hematological malignancy as analyzed by LDT were also negative by ClearLLab LS (100% agreement). ClearLLab LS agreed with LDTs assessment of neoplasms' maturity (55/55 mature and 27/27 immature).

Conclusion

ClearLLab LS screening tube showed excellent agreement between ClearLLab Reagents and with LDT's. The presence of CD34 and CD10 in the tube allowed the detection of blast populations in several acute leukemias and myeloid neoplasms that were tested. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Adult functions for the Drosophila DHR78 nuclear receptor
Authors: Marxreiter Stefanie , Thummel Carl S.
Published: November 2017

Background: The Testicular Receptors 2 and 4 (TR2, TR4) comprise a small subfamily of orphan nuclear receptors. Genetic studies in mouse models have identified roles for TR4 in developmental progression, fertility, brain development, and metabolism, as well as genetic redundancy with TR2. Here we study the adult functions of the single Drosophila member of this subfamily, DHR78, with the goal of defining its ancestral functions in the absence of genetic redundancy. Results: We show that DHR78 mutants have a shortened lifespan, reduced motility, and mated DHR78 mutant females display a reduced feeding rate. Transcriptional profiling reveals a major role for DHR78 in promoting the expression of genes that are expressed in the midgut, suggesting that it contributes to nutrient uptake. We also identify roles for DHR78 in maintaining the expression of genes in the ecdysone and Notch signaling pathways. Conclusions: This study provides a new context for linking the molecular activity of the TR orphan nuclear receptors with their complex roles in adult physiology and lifespan. Developmental Dynamics 247:315–322, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Search and foraging behaviors from movement data: A comparison of methods
Authors: Bennison Ashley , Bearhop Stuart , Bodey Thomas W. , Votier Stephen C. , Grecian W. James , Wakefield Ewan D. , Hamer Keith C. , Jessopp Mark
Published: November 2017

Search behavior is often used as a proxy for foraging effort within studies of animal movement, despite it being only one part of the foraging process, which also includes prey capture. While methods for validating prey capture exist, many studies rely solely on behavioral annotation of animal movement data to identify search and infer prey capture attempts. However, the degree to which search correlates with prey capture is largely untested. This study applied seven behavioral annotation methods to identify search behavior from GPS tracks of northern gannets (Morus bassanus), and compared outputs to the occurrence of dives recorded by simultaneously deployed time–depth recorders. We tested how behavioral annotation methods vary in their ability to identify search behavior leading to dive events. There was considerable variation in the number of dives occurring within search areas across methods. Hidden Markov models proved to be the most successful, with 81% of all dives occurring within areas identified as search. k‐Means clustering and first passage time had the highest rates of dives occurring outside identified search behavior. First passage time and hidden Markov models had the lowest rates of false positives, identifying fewer search areas with no dives. All behavioral annotation methods had advantages and drawbacks in terms of the complexity of analysis and ability to reflect prey capture events while minimizing the number of false positives and false negatives. We used these results, with consideration of analytical difficulty, to provide advice on the most appropriate methods for use where prey capture behavior is not available. This study highlights a need to critically assess and carefully choose a behavioral annotation method suitable for the research question being addressed, or resulting species management frameworks established.