bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of a Ni correction with ion counter in the double spike analysis of Fe isotope compositions using a 57Fe/58Fe double spike
Authors: Finlayson V. A. , Konter J. G. , Ma L.
Published: October 2015

We present a new method capable of measuring iron isotope ratios of igneous materials to high precision by multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC‐ICP‐MS) using a 57Fe‐58Fe double spike. After sample purification, near‐baseline signal levels of nickel are still present in the sample solution, acting as an isobaric interference on 58 amu. To correct for the interference, the minor 60Ni isotope is monitored and used to subtract a proportional 58Ni signal from the total 58 amu beam. The 60Ni signal is difficult to precisely measure on the Faraday detector due to Johnson noise occurring at similar magnitude. This noise‐dominated signal is subtracted from the total 58 amu beam, and its error amplified during the double spike correction. Placing the 60Ni beam on an ion counter produces a more precise measurement, resulting in a near‐threefold improvement in δ56Fe reproducibility, from ±0.145‰ when measured on Faraday to 0.052‰. Faraday detectors quantify the 60Ni signal poorly, and fail to discern the transient 20Ne40Ar interference visible on the ion counter, which is likely responsible for poor reproducibility. Another consideration is instrumental stability (defined herein as drift in peak center mass), which affects high‐resolution analyses. Analyses experiencing large drift relative to bracketing standards often yield nonreplicating data. Based on this, we present a quantitative outlier detection method capable of detecting drift‐affected data. After outlier rejection, long‐term precision on individual runs of our secondary standard improves to ±0.046‰. Averaging 3–4 analyses further improves precision to 0.019‰, allowing distinction between ultramafic minerals.
Assessing the potential impacts of declining Arctic sea ice cover on the photochemical degradation of dissolved organic matter in the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas
Authors: Logvinova Christie L. , Frey Karen E. , Mann Paul J. , Stubbins Aron , Spencer Robert G. M.
Published: October 2015

A warming and shifting climate in the Arctic has led to significant declines in sea ice over the last several decades. Although these changes in sea ice cover are well documented, large uncertainties remain in how associated increases in solar radiation transmitted to the underlying ocean water column will impact heating, biological, and biogeochemical processes in the Arctic Ocean. In this study, six under‐ice marine, two ice‐free marine, and two ice‐free terrestrially influenced water samples were irradiated using a solar simulator for 72 h (representing ~10 days of ambient sunlight) to investigate dissolved organic matter (DOM) dynamics from the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. Solar irradiation caused chromophoric DOM (CDOM) light absorption at 254 nm to decrease by 48 to 63%. An overall loss in total DOM fluorescence intensity was also observed at the end of all experiments, and each of six components identified by parallel factor (PARAFAC) analysis was shown to be photoreactive in at least one experiment. Fluorescent DOM (FDOM) also indicated that the majority of DOM in under‐ice and ice‐free marine waters was likely algal‐derived. Measurable changes in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were only observed for sites influenced by riverine runoff. Losses of CDOM absorbance at shorter wavelengths suggest that the beneficial UV protection currently received by marine organisms may decline with the increased light transmittance associated with sea ice melt ponding and overall reductions of sea ice. Our FDOM analyses demonstrate that DOM irrespective of source was susceptible to photobleaching. Additionally, our findings suggest that photodegradation of CDOM in under‐ice waters is not currently a significant source of carbon dioxide (CO2) (i.e., we did not observe systematic DOC loss). However, increases in primary production and terrestrial freshwater export expected under future climate change scenarios may cause an increase in CDOM quantity and shift in quality throughout Arctic Ocean surface waters. As Arctic temperatures continue to warm and summer sea ice further declines, examination of the resulting enhanced photodegradation processes and their impacts on the interplay between primary production, carbon cycling, and surface ocean heating processes will be paramount.
Pathways of anaerobic organic matter decomposition in tundra soils from Barrow, Alaska
Authors: Herndon Elizabeth M. , Mann Benjamin F. , Roy Chowdhury Taniya , Yang Ziming , Wullschleger Stan D. , Graham David , Liang Liyuan , Gu Baohua
Published: October 2015

Arctic tundra soils store a large quantity of organic carbon that is susceptible to decomposition and release to the atmosphere as methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) under a warming climate. Anaerobic processes that generate CH4 and CO2 remain unclear because previous studies have focused on aerobic decomposition pathways. To predict releases of CO2 and CH4 from tundra soils, it is necessary to identify pathways of soil organic matter decomposition under the anoxic conditions that are prevalent in Arctic ecosystems. Here molecular and spectroscopic techniques were used to monitor biological degradation of water‐extractable organic carbon (WEOC) during anoxic incubation of tundra soils from a region of continuous permafrost in northern Alaska. Organic and mineral soils from the tundra active layer were incubated at −2, +4, or +8°C for up to 60 days to mimic the short‐term thaw season. Results suggest that, under anoxic conditions, fermentation converted complex organic molecules into simple organic acids that were used in concomitant Fe‐reduction and acetoclastic methanogenesis reactions. Nonaromatic compounds increased over time as WEOC increased. Organic acid metabolites initially accumulated in soils but were mostly depleted by day 60 because organic acids were consumed to produce Fe(II), CO2, and CH4. We conclude that fermentation of nonprotected organic matter facilitates methanogenesis and Fe reduction reactions, and that the proportion of organic acids consumed by methanogenesis increases relative to Fe reduction with increasing temperature. The decomposition pathways observed in this study are important to consider in numerical modeling of greenhouse gas production in the Arctic.
Women's and Feminist Activism inNorthernAfrica
Authors: Moghadam Valentine M.
Published: October 2015

A survey of women's rights activism in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia from the 1980s to the Arab Spring reveals an emphasis on legal equality through family law reform, collective action against fundamentalism and political Islam, advocacy to end violence against women, and lobbying to enhance women's political participation and social rights.
Bioinspired Oil Core/Silica Shell Nanocarriers with Tunable and Multimodal Functionalities
Authors: Jakhmola Anshuman , Vecchione Raffaele , Guarnieri Daniela , Belli Valentina , Calabria Dominic , Netti Paolo A.
Published: October 2015

The application of multimodal systems in the field of nanomedicine is advantageous as they can perform two or more tasks simultaneously. Here a robust approach is presented mimicking biogenic silica to design a multilayered nanocarrier system with a central oil core encapsulated within a polymer‐silica shell. The outermost silica shell has been deposited through a biosilicification process induced by poly‐L‐lysine molecules immobilized on the surface of emulsion droplets. This system can be simultaneously loaded with high amount of hydrophobic molecules or contrasting agents in the inner oil core, while the polymeric‐silica layers can be easily tagged with at least two different contrasting agents. Additionally, the zwitterionic nature of the silica precipitating peptide (poly‐L‐lysine) has been efficiently exploited to modulate and entirely reverse the surface charge of the nanocarrier without using any additional coating material. It has been demonstrated experimentally that the designed nanocapsular system is monodisperse, nontoxic, cargo protective, tunable in thickness, fluorescent, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) active so highly versatile for multiple applications in the field of drug delivery and in vivo imaging.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Domino Process: Synthesis of Symmetrical Diarylalkynes, cis‐ and trans‐Alkenes using Lithium Acetylide as a Synthon
Authors: Krishna Jonnada , Krishna Reddy Alavala Gopi , Satyanarayana Gedu
Published: October 2015

An efficient domino protocol has been developed for the synthesis of symmetrical diarylalkynes. Notably, the method was successful in the presence of a palladium catalyst without the support of a copper co‐catalyst. Significantly, the method enabled the use of the commercially available and cheap lithium acetylide ethylenediamine complex as a source of acetylene for the construction of dual CC bonds, with a wide range of compatibility towards various substituents of the aryl bromides/iodides. Significantly, this protocol was successfully applied to the synthesis of cis‐ and trans‐alkenes in a highly stereoselective manner in a sequential one‐pot process.

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Genetic differentials of child abuse: Is your case rare or real?
Authors: Shur Natasha , Carey John C.
Published: October 2015

The clinical geneticist can be called upon to play a role in the medical evaluation of children with clinical findings concerning for child abuse. This Introduction describes a case of suspected child abuse in an 8‐month‐old baby referred to clinical genetics to exclude osteogenesis imperfecta. The experience from this case raised medical and ethical considerations and prompted consideration of the role of the clinical geneticist in distinguishing rare mimics of child abuse from real cases. From this single case, and a discussion regarding similar cases, arose the idea of this issue in Seminars in Medical Genetics, Genetic Differentials of Child Abuse: Is Your Case Rare or Real? In thinking about child abuse from a clinical genetics perspective, we categorize clinical presentations into fractures, skin lesions, hemorrhage, growth disturbances, and concern for caregiver‐fabricated illness (previously known as Munchausen syndrome by proxy). In this Introduction, we also discuss recent questions regarding Ehlers–Danlos syndrome and infantile fractures and concerns about caregiver‐fabricated illness in the context of mitochondrial or other rare diseases. The goal is that this issue on child abuse and genetics will serve as a resource to help distinguish the rare causes from the real cases of child abuse, and those critical distinctions and correct diagnoses may be life‐saving for some infants and children. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Future linear colliders ‐ physics motivation and physics reach
Authors: Yamamoto Hitoshi
Published: October 2015

In this article, the physics reach of linear colliders in the new era opened by the discovery of the Higgs particle is reviewed. Important features that make the linear colliders attractive are summarized and their key performances are compared to those of the upgraded High‐Luminosity LHC.
Synthesis of [n]Cyclo‐5,15‐porphyrinylene‐4,4′‐biphenylenes Displaying Size‐Dependent Excitation‐Energy Hopping
Authors: Jiang Hua‐Wei , Tanaka Takayuki , Kim Taeyeon , Sung Young Mo , Mori Hirotaka , Kim Dongho , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: October 2015

A set of 5,15‐biphenylene‐bridged porphyrin wheels, namely, [n]cyclo‐5,15‐porphyrinylene‐4,4′‐biphenylenes [n]CPB, have been synthesized through the platination of 5,15‐bis(4‐(pinacolboranyl)phenyl) nickel(II) porphyrin and subsequent reductive elimination of PtII(cod)‐bridged cyclic porphyrin intermediates. The calculated strain energies for [3]CPB, [4]CPB, [5]CPB, and [6]CPB are 49.3, 32.9, 23.5, and 16.0 kcal mol−1, respectively. UV/Vis absorption spectra and cyclic voltammetry indicated characteristic ring‐size‐dependent absorption‐peak shifts and redox‐potential shifts, which presumably reflect the degree of strain in the π‐systems. Excitation‐energy hopping (EEH) times were determined to be 5.1, 8.0, 8.0, and 9.6 ps for [3]CPB, [4]CPB, [5]CPB, and [6]CPB, respectively, in a pump‐power‐dependent TA experiment.
Public and Private Values
Authors: Ariely Dan , Bracha Anat , L'Huillier Jean‐Paul
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we experimentally examine whether looking at other people's pricing decisions is a type of a decision rule that people over‐apply even when it is not applicable, as in the case of private‐value goods. In Study 1, we find evidence that this is indeed the case—individual valuation of a subjective experience under full information, elicited using incentive compatible mechanism, is highly influenced by values of others. In Study 2, we find that people expect to use this rule to some degree with respect to actual consumption of goods, especially goods with some public value (music), and less so for private‐value goods (noise). However, people expect to use the rule to a very large extent when they are required to express their valuation of a good using a dollar figure (Study 3). These results can shed light on price behavior as rigidities and rents. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Should you Sleep on it? The Effects of Overnight Sleep on Subjective Preference‐based Choice
Authors: Karmarkar Uma R. , Shiv Baba , Spencer Rebecca M. C.
Published: October 2015

Conventional wisdom and studies of unconscious processing suggest that sleeping on a choice may improve decision making. Although sleep has been shown to benefit several cognitive tasks, including problem solving, its impact on everyday choices remains unclear. Here we explore the effects of ‘sleeping on it’ on preference‐based decisions among multiple options. In two studies, individuals viewed several attributes describing a set of items and were asked to select their preferred item after a 12‐hour interval that either contained sleep or was spent fully awake. After an overnight period including sleep, individuals showed increases in positive perceptions of the choice set. This finding contrasts with previous research showing that sleep selectively enhances recall for negative information. In addition, this increase in positive recall did not translate into a greater desire to purchase their preferred item or into an overall benefit for choice satisfaction. Time‐of‐day controls were used to confirm that the observed effects could not be explained by circadian influences. Thus, we show that people may feel more positive about the choice options but not more confident about the choice after ‘sleeping on’ a subjective decision. We discuss how the valence of recalled choice set information may be important in understanding the effects of sleep on multi‐attribute decision making and suggest several avenues for future research. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidemiology and classification of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms using current coding criteria
Authors: Sandvik O M , Søreide K , Gudlaugsson E , Kvaløy J T , Søreide J A
Published: October 2015

Background

The lack of uniform criteria for coding of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasia (GEP-NEN) has hampered previous epidemiological studies. The epidemiology of GEP-NEN was investigated in this study using currently available criteria.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with GEP-NEN between January 2003 and December 2013 in a well defined Norwegian population of approximately 350 000 people were included. Age- and sex-adjusted incidence rates were calculated. The current 2010 World Health Organization criteria, European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society classification and International Union Against Cancer (UICC) classification were used.

Results

A total of 204 patients (114 male, 55·9 per cent) were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 61 (range 10–94) years. The annual overall crude incidence was 5·83 per 100 000 inhabitants, with an increasing trend (P = 0·033). The most frequent location was small intestine (60 patients, 29·4 per cent) followed by appendix (48 patients, 23·5 per cent) and pancreas (33 patients, 16·2 per cent). Grade 1 tumours were more common in gastrointestinal (100 patients, 58·5 per cent) than in pancreatic (9 patients, 27 per cent) NEN. According to the UICC classification, 77 patients (37·7 per cent) had stage I, 17 patients (8·3 per cent) stage II, 37 patients (18·1 per cent) stage III and 70 patients (34·3 per cent) had stage IV disease. No patient with stage I disease had grade 3 tumours; advanced tumour grade increased with stage.

Conclusion

A high crude incidence of GEP-NEN, at 5·83 per 100 000 inhabitants, was noted together with a significant increasing trend over time.
Patterns of recurrence in early-stage oesophageal cancer after chemoradiotherapy and surgery compared with surgery alone
Authors: Robb W B , Messager M , Dahan L , Mornex F , Maillard E , D'Journo X B , Triboulet J-P , Bedenne L , Seitz J-F , Mariette C
Published: October 2015

Background

Patterns of disease recurrence in patients with oesophageal cancer following treatment with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and surgery (nCRTS) or surgery alone are poorly reported. An understanding of patterns of disease recurrence is important for subsequent treatment planning.

Methods

An analysis was undertaken of patterns of disease recurrence from a phase III multicentre randomized trial (FFCD9901) comparing nCRTS with surgery alone in patients with stage I and II oesophageal cancer.

Results

Some 170 patients undergoing surgical resection were included in the study. R0 resection rates were similar in the two groups: 94 per cent following nCRTSversus 92 per cent after surgery alone (P = 0·749). After a median follow-up of 94·2 months, recurrent disease was found in 39·4 per cent of the overall cohort (31 per cent after nCRTSversus 47 per cent following surgery alone; P = 0·030). Locoregional recurrence was diagnosed in 41 patients (17 versus 30 per cent respectively; P = 0·047) and distant metastatic recurrence in 47 (23 versus 31 per cent respectively; P = 0·244). Metastatic recurrence was more frequent in patients with adenocarcinoma than in those with squamous cell cancer (40 versus 23·1 per cent respectively; P = 0·032). ypT0 N0 category was associated with prolonged time to mixed locoregional and metastatic recurrence (P = 0·009), and time to locoregional (P = 0·044) and metastatic (P = 0·055) recurrence. In multivariable analysis, node-positive disease predicted both locoregional (P = 0·001) and metastatic (P < 0·001) recurrence.

Conclusion

Locoregional disease control following nCRTS indicated a local field effect not related solely to completeness of resection. pN+ disease was strongly predictive of time to locoregional and metastatic disease recurrence.
Pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyrroles—From Unprecedented Solvatofluorochromism to Two‐Photon Absorption
Authors: Friese Daniel H. , Mikhaylov Alexander , Krzeszewski Maciej , Poronik Yevgen M. , Rebane Aleksander , Ruud Kenneth , Gryko Daniel T.
Published: October 2015

A combined experimental and theoretical study of the two‐photon absorption (2PA) properties of a series of quadrupolar molecules possessing a highly electron‐rich heterocyclic core, pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyrrole, is presented. In agreement with quantum‐chemical calculations, large 2PA cross‐section values, σ2PA≈102–103 GM (1 GM=1050 cm4 s photon−1), are observed at wavelengths of 650–700 nm, which correspond to the two‐photon allowed but one‐photon forbidden transitions. The calculations also predict that increased planarity of this molecule through removal of two N‐substituents leads to further increase in the σ2PA values. Surprisingly, the most quadrupolar pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyrrole derivative, containing two 4‐nitrophenyl substituents at positions 2 and 5, demonstrates a very strong solvatofluorochromic effect, with a fluorescence quantum yield as high as 0.96 in cyclohexane, whereas the fluorescence vanishes in DMSO.
Molecular Materials That Can Both Emit Light and Conduct Charges: Strategies and Perspectives
Authors: Liu Zitong , Zhang Guanxin , Zhang Deqing
Published: October 2015

Molecular materials with concomitant light‐emissive and semiconducting properties have received increasing attention in recent years. Such dual functional materials ensure the development of multifunctional devices (e.g., organic light‐emitting transistors) and the emergence of new technologies. However, owing to the fact that intermolecular interactions and dense packing have opposite effects on photoluminescence and charge‐carrier mobility, it is still rather challenging to rationally design high‐performance molecular materials that exhibit both semiconducting and light‐emissive properties. In fact, only a limited number of such dual functional materials are available, and most of their performances need to be further improved. In this concept article we discuss the design strategies and perspectives of this challenging area with the introduction of representative examples of such dual functional materials reported in recent years.
Origin, Mobilization and Distribution of Selenium in a Soil/Water/Air System: A Global Perspective With Special Reference to the Indian Scenario
Authors: Paikaray Susanta
Published: October 2015

Narrow tolerance limit of selenium (Se) brings serious concerns through deficiency as well as toxicity in the biological and environmental systems. Both geogenic and anthropogenic activities govern Se origin in nature, while its bioavailability is controlled by biogeochemical conditions and nature of Se species. Selenium hazards have drawn a special research interest globally, especially in USA, Canada and China, where large populations of aquatic life and human beings are being severely affected. Both Se deficiency and toxicity has been reported in India. Deficiency is shown to amplify arsenic (As) poisoning in As polluted regions. Industrial, mining, coal burns, and natural sources have been recognized as major causes of Se poisoning in soil, surface/groundwater and atmosphere. Besides local scale pollutions, the NW Indian state Punjab is known as the most alarmed region with >1000 ha of contaminated farm lands. Alkaline soil pH, cultivation of Se bioaccumulators, improper treatment of industrial effluents/emissions is responsible for Se mobilization and easy bioavailability. Acidification of soil pH, phytoremediation, application of excessive organic matters and sulfur‐rich minerals such as gypsum, changes in cultivation practices to non‐bioaccumulators, regulatory industrial effluent/emission treatment, and avoidance of Se‐rich fodders are considered to overcome Se‐toxicity, while Se supplements and/or Se‐rich fertilizers may resolve Se‐deficiency.
Branched Au Nanoparticles as Light‐Harvesting Antennae for Photosensitized Reactions
Authors: Kawawaki Tokuhisa , Asakura Akihiro , Tatsuma Tetsu
Published: October 2015

Branched Au nanoparticles (NPs) were developed as nanoantennae that can enhance photoelectrochemical reaction rates. The branched Au NP generates a strong oscillating electric field (i.e., optical near field) under light of various polarizations and incident angles. Here we prepare branched Au NPs by electrodeposition and coat them with a ZnO thin film at a relatively low temperature to improve the thermal and chemical stabilities of the NPs. The ZnO‐coated branched Au NPs are modified further with PbS NPs. The PbS‐sensitized photocurrents are enhanced even at 1300 nm by the branched Au NPs. The enhancement peak wavelength can be controlled in the 700–1300 nm range by changing the branch length.
Evolution and biogeography of the endemic Roucela complex (Campanulaceae: Campanula) in the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Crowl Andrew A. , Visger Clayton J. , Mansion Guilhem , Hand Ralf , Wu Hsin‐Hui , Kamari Georgia , Phitos Dimitrios , Cellinese Nico
Published: October 2015

At the intersection of geological activity, climatic fluctuations, and human pressure, the Mediterranean Basin – a hotspot of biodiversity – provides an ideal setting for studying endemism, evolution, and biogeography. Here, we focus on the Roucela complex (Campanula subgenus Roucela), a group of 13 bellflower species found primarily in the eastern Mediterranean Basin. Plastid and low‐copy nuclear markers were employed to reconstruct evolutionary relationships and estimate divergence times within the Roucela complex using both concatenation and species tree analyses. Niche modeling, ancestral range estimation, and diversification analyses were conducted to provide further insights into patterns of endemism and diversification through time. Diversification of the Roucela clade appears to have been primarily the result of vicariance driven by the breakup of an ancient landmass. We found geologic events such as the formation of the mid‐Aegean trench and the Messinian Salinity Crisis to be historically important in the evolutionary history of this group. Contrary to numerous past studies, the onset of the Mediterranean climate has not promoted diversification in the Roucela complex and, in fact, may be negatively affecting these species. This study highlights the diversity and complexity of historical processes driving plant evolution in the Mediterranean Basin.
Plasma kidney injury molecule‐1 in heart failure: renal mechanisms and clinical outcome
Authors: Emmens Johanna E. , ter Maaten Jozine M. , Matsue Yuya , Metra Marco , O'Connor Christopher M. , Ponikowski Piotr , Teerlink John R. , Cotter Gad , Davison Beth , Cleland John G. , Givertz Michael M. , Bloomfield Daniel M. , Dittrich Howard C. , Todd John , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Hillege Hans L. , Damman Kevin , van der Meer Peter , Voors Adriaan A.
Published: October 2015

Aims

Urinary kidney injury molecule‐1 (KIM‐1) is a marker of tubular damage and associated with worse outcome in heart failure (HF). Plasma KIM‐1 has not been described in HF.

Methods and results

In a renal mechanistic cohort of 120 chronic HF patients, we established the association between plasma KIM‐1, renal invasive haemodynamic parameters {renal blood flow ([131I]hippuran clearance) and measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR; [125I]iothalamate)} and urinary tubular damage markers. The association between plasma KIM‐1, plasma creatinine, and clinical outcome was further explored in a cohort of 2033 acute HF patients. Median plasma KIM‐1 was 171.5 pg/mL (122.8–325.7) in chronic (n = 99) and 295.1 pg/mL (182.2–484.2) in acute HF (n = 1588). In chronic HF, plasma KIM‐1 was associated with GFR (P < 0.001), creatinine, and cystatin C. Plasma KIM‐1 was associated with urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐d‐glucosaminidase (NAG), but not with other urinary tubular damage markers. Log plasma KIM‐1 predicted adverse clinical outcome after adjustment for age, gender, and GFR [hazard ratio (HR) 1.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07–3.53, P = 0.030]. Statistical significance was lost after correction for NT‐proBNP (HR 1.61, 95% CI 0.81–3.20, P = 0.175). In acute HF, higher plasma KIM‐1 levels were associated with higher creatinine, lower albumin, and presence of diabetes. Log plasma KIM‐1 predicted 60‐day HF rehospitalization (HR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03–1.55, P = 0.024), but not 180‐day mortality or 60‐day death or renal or cardiovascular rehospitalization.

Conclusions

Plasma KIM‐1 is associated with glomerular filtration and urinary NAG, but not with other urinary tubular damage markers. Plasma KIM‐1 does not predict outcome in chronic HF after correction for NT‐proBNP. In acute HF, plasma KIM‐1 predicts HF rehospitalization in multivariable analysis.
A CuI‐Based Metallo‐Supramolecular Gel‐Like Material Built from a Library of ­Oligomeric Ligands Featuring Exotopic 1,10‐Phenanthroline Units
Authors: Berrocal José Augusto , Albano Simone , Mandolini Luigi , Di Stefano Stefano
Published: October 2015

A 22‐membered cyclic alkene C1 incorporating an exotopic 1,10‐phenanthroline nucleus in the ring skeleton has been synthesized and subjected to ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) in dilute dichloromethane solution at varying monomer concentrations (cmon). The resultant libraries of macrocyclic oligomers were used as ligands for the generation of main‐chain metal–ligand oligomeric/polymeric complexes taking advantage of the strong affinity of 1,10‐phenanthroline derivatives for CuI. The formation of a gel‐like material only upon addition of [Cu(CH3CN)4]PF6 to the most concentrated library (cmon = 60 mM) was explained as arising from the presence of significant amounts of trimeric and higher oligomeric macrocycles Ci (i ≥ 3), acting as cross‐linking components.
High Performance Activated Carbon/Carbon Cloth Cathodes for Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Janicek A. , Gao N. , Fan Y. , Liu H.
Published: October 2015

Replacing precious metal catalysts by inexpensive activated carbon (AC) is a breakthrough in microbial fuel cell (MFC) cathode fabrication. In this study, AC powders made from bamboo, peat, coal, coconut, and hardwood sources are evaluated in terms of their electrochemical performance with carbon cloth as the base material. These ACs are characterized in terms of their conductivity, surface chemistry, surface area, and pore size distribution. The bamboo‐based AC demonstrates the highest potential for use as a catalyst for carbon cloth based cathode, reaching 10.6 A m−2 at 0V vs. Ag/AgCl and a loading of 25 mg cm−2. The maximum power density reached 3.3 W m−2 in CEA–MFCs. The high performance of the bamboo‐based AC cathode was possible due to the good conductivity and suitable surface chemistry of the bamboo AC and the high surface area of the base material. The hydrostatic pressure tolerance of the AC carbon cloth cathode is greater than 1.8 m, allowing for a more versatile cathode, suitable for use in many different reactor configurations.
Synthesis and biocompatibility assessment of sugarcane bagasse‐derived biogenic silica nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Authors: Athinarayanan Jegan , Periasamy Vaiyapuri Subbarayan , Alhazmi Mohammad , Alshatwi Ali A.
Published: October 2015

Sugarcane bagasse is a fibrous material and an excellent bioresource for biogenic silica. Moreover, sugarcane bagasse has low production costs and is a sustainable precursor for the synthesis of biogenic silica nanoparticles (BSNPs). In this study, we synthesized BSNPs using sugarcane bagasse. The acid pretreatment of sugarcane was carried out in an autoclave, which eliminates metal ions and promotes the hydrolysis of organic substances. Residues of the acid pretreatment were incinerated at different temperatures to determine the role of temperature on the formation of BSNPs. The crystalline nature and morphology of the prepared BSNPs were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction analysis and transmission electron microscopy. The X‐ray diffraction analysis result indicates that the prepared BSNPs have an amorphous nature. Transmission electron microscopy images confirmed that the BSNPs have an irregular shape with a porous morphology. The biocompatibility of BSNPs was studied by assessing their effect on human lung fibroblast cell viability, morphology, mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species, and gene expression. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays and microscopy studies suggested that BSNPs do not affect cell viability or morphology. BSNPs slightly affect the mitochondrial membrane potential at high doses. In addition, BSNPs decreased the percentage of human lung fibroblast cell in G1 and G2/M phases and increased the S population. These studies revealed that the BSNPs were biocompatible, indicating that they may be applicable for biomedical applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 340–349, 2017.
Catenanes: A molecular mechanics analysis of the (C13H26)2 Structure 13‐13 D2
Authors: Lii Jenn‐Huei , Allinger Norman L. , Hu Ching‐Han , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: October 2015

Molecular mechanics (MM4) studies have been carried out on the catenane (C13H26)2, specifically 13‐13D2. The structure obtained is in general agreement with second‐order perturbation theory. More importantly, the MM4 structure allows a breakdown of the energy of the molecule into its component classical parts. This allows an understanding of why the structure is so distorted, in terms of CC bonding and nonbonding interactions, van der Waals repulsion, CCC and CCH angle bending, torsional energies, stretch‐bend, torsion‐stretch, and bend–torsion–bend interactions. Clearly, the hole in 113‐membered ring is too small for the other ring to fit through comfortably. There are too many atoms trying to fit into the limited space at the same time, leading to large van der Waals repulsions. The rings distort in such a way as to enlarge this available space, and lower the total energy of the molecule. While the distortions are spread around the rings, one of the nominally tetrahedral CCC bond angles in each ring is opened to 147.9° by MM4 (146.8° by MP2). The stability of the compound is discussed in terms of the strain energy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nontotally symmetric trifurcation of an SN2 reaction pathway
Authors: Harabuchi Yu , Ono Yuriko , Maeda Satoshi , Taketsugu Tetsuya , Keipert Kristopher , Gordon Mark S.
Published: October 2015

A new type of reaction pathway which involves a nontotally symmetric trifurcation was found and investigated for a typical SN2‐type reaction, NC‐ + CH3X → NCCH3 + X‐ (X = F, Cl). A nontotally symmetric valley‐ridge inflection (VRI) point was located along the C3v reaction path. For X = F, the minimum energy path (MEP) starting from the transition state (TS) leads to a second‐order saddle point with C3v symmetry, which connects three product minima of Cs symmetry. For X = Cl, four product minima have been observed, of which three belong to Cs symmetry and one to C3v symmetry. The branching path from the VRI point to the lower symmetry minima was determined by a linear interpolation technique. The branching mechanism is discussed based on the reaction path curvature and net atomic charges, and the possibility of a nonotally symmetric n‐furcation is discussed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Atmospheric drought in Belgium – statistical analysis of precipitation deficit
Authors: Zamani Sepideh , Gobin Anne , Van de Vyver Hans , Gerlo Jeroen
Published: October 2015

The principle of return periods or frequencies of natural hazards is adopted in many countries as the basis of eligibility for the compensation of associated losses. For adequate risk management and eligibility in Belgium, hazard maps for drought events with a 20‐year return period are needed. The maximum precipitation deficit in the summer half‐year (1 April–30 September) was taken as a good indicator for atmospheric drought severity during a particular year. Precipitation deficit is calculated as a cumulative balance between precipitation and evapotranspiration for a free open water surface, short grass, deciduous forest and coniferous forest. Precipitation deficit maxima were modelled with the generalized extreme value (GEV) distribution. Mapping precipitation deficit return levels is based on a GEV distribution where the parameters vary smoothly in space as a function of altitude and distance to the sea. The final products are return level maps of extreme precipitation deficit, relevant for insurance companies providing cover for the forestry and agriculture sector.
Ferroelectric liquid crystals: Excellent tool for modern displays and photonics
Authors: Srivastava Abhishek K. , Chigrinov Vladimir G. , Kwok Hoi Sing
Published: October 2015

The ferroelectric liquid crystals, because of their fast electro‐optical response, are one of the most important classes of liquid crystals. Here, in this review, we have summarized the different electro‐optical modes for ferroelectric liquid crystals. Clark–Lagerwall effect (surface stabilized ferroelectric liquid crystal), deformed helix ferroelectric (DHF) effect, electrically suppressed helix (ESH) mode, DHF orientational Kerr effect, and ESH diffraction modes have been discussed. All of the crucial features, that is, optics, electro‐optics, dynamics, and their dependence on material parameters, operational regime, and applications, have been reviewed.
A meta‐population model to predict occurrence and recovery of wolves
Authors: Maletzke Benjamin T. , Wielgus Robert B. , Pierce D. John , Martorello Donald A. , Stinson Derek W.
Published: October 2015

Wolves (Canis lupis) have been recolonizing Washington since 2008. In an effort to guide recovery and management decisions for wolves, we created a spatially explicit meta‐population matrix model using vital rates based on empirical data from other states in the northwestern United States to estimate probability of occurrence, terminal extinction rates, and potential recovery time. We applied an existing habitat model for Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming to the Washington landscape to determine the extent of probable habitat. We then simulated an evenly distributed metapopulation based on average size of pack territories reported in central Idaho where average probability of occurrence exceeded 40%. Using the program RAMAS GIS, we created a female‐only, stage matrix model with dispersal using population metrics from central Idaho and northwestern Montana. Model simulations that begin in 2009 suggest Washington should reach its recovery goals in approximately 12 years (2021). We used the model to project recovery timeframes and the risk of declining below recovery objectives if management scenarios are considered during recovery. This model is also intended to be a versatile and adaptive tool for managers to project potential carrying capacity and the minimum viable population in the future when locally derived empirical data become available as wolves recolonize Washington. The model framework can be easily adapted to guide management decisions of wolves in other states (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Wyoming) or countries and it can also provide a way to identify recovery thresholds (quasi‐extinction) in other areas considered for recovery where no data are currently available. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Wildlife Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Adenoidal follicular T helper cells provide stronger B‐cell help than those from tonsils
Authors: Morris Matthew C. , Kozara Kevin , Salamone Frank , Benoit Margo , Pichichero Michael E.
Published: October 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The tonsils and adenoids are secondary lymphoid organs, where antigen processing and immune cell development occur to control bacterial colonization and infection in the upper respiratory tract. Both organs are abundant in follicular T helper cells (TFH), a subset of T cells specialized for promoting B‐cell development. There are no prior studies on differences between the immune cells of the tonsils and adenoids and whether the cells function differently.

Study Design

In vitro assays to assess cell phenotype of tonsils and adenoids from young children (median age = 40 months).

Methods

Mononuclear cells from tonsils and adenoids were cultured with or without 1 µg/mL Staphylococcus enterotoxin B (SEB) for 4 days. Cell phenotype and function were assessed by flow cytometry and multiplex enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

We found that in resting adenoids, TFH expressed higher CXCR5 and inducible costimulator but lower PD‐1 than those from the tonsils, and that adenoidal B cells expressed higher CD27. Upon polyclonal stimulation with SEB, both TFH and B cells from the adenoids proliferated to a greater extent, and culture supernatants contained higher levels of interleukin 21.

Conclusions

We conclude that the cells of the adenoid are disposed toward the provision of more robust B‐cell help than the tonsils.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:E80–E85, 2016
A Pedological Characterisation of Some Inland Wetlands and Ramsar Sites in Algeria
Authors: Aliat Toufik , Kaabeche Mohammed , Khomri Hana , Nouri Lilya , Neffar Souad , Chenchouni Haroun
Published: October 2015

This paper aims to characterise soils of 12 wetlands, of which ten are Ramsar sites, in the ecocomplex of wetlands of the Hauts Plateaux region in Northeast Algeria. Soil samples from every site were collected following the four cardinal directions, along a transect covering the peripheral vegetation belts, and from two depths of the surface horizon. Each soil sample was analysed to determine electrical conductivity, pH, total carbonates, gypsum, chlorides, bicarbonates, sulfates and the particle size. The soil texture and chemical facies (Cl–SO4–HCO3) of each site were identified and discussed. Changes in physicochemical parameters were tested according to the spatial features of sites (orientations, vegetation transects and sample depth). A great heterogeneity was found between soils of sampled sites. Indeed, soil physicochemical characteristics differed from one site to another and between belts of the natural vegetation within the same site. Overall, the study wetlands were characterised by salty to very salty soils (electrical conductivity = 3·46 ± 2·44 dS m−1), of neutral to alkaline pH (6·9–8·1), moderately calcareous (CaCO3 ranged between 15·7% and 33·7%) and little to extremely gypsiferous (gypsium varied from 2·1% to 39·4%). The dominant soil texture classes were medium textures (loam, sandy loam or silty clay loam). Chemically, chlorides (18·5 ± 16·3 Meq/100 g) and/or sulfates (16·5 ± 12·5 Meq/100 g) dominated soil solutions of these environments but with slight bicarbonate contents (0·6 ± 2·6 Meq/100 g). Moreover, there were poor correlations between physicochemical parameters, which indicates interactions between certain parameters under the effect of specific habitat conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of severe hailstorms and hail risk using weather radar data
Authors: Cică Roxana , Burcea Sorin , Bojariu Roxana
Published: October 2015

Severe storms that produce hail of significant amount or size carry a high risk, being responsible for damage at the ground. Hail spawned from these storms can affect crops, automobiles and buildings. A total of 52 hail events that occurred in May 2013 in southern Romania are used to investigate the relation between radar‐derived products and damage produced by hail. Two case studies are also presented to highlight the methodology used in this study.

Three‐dimensional single polarization weather radar data were used to derive composite reflectivity, echo top heights, vertically integrated liquid, vertically integrated liquid density and hail kinetic energy flux to detect the hail clouds. Time integration and spatial distribution of these radar products were produced in order to capture the swath, intensity and longevity of the hailstorms. Hail and damage reports were used to link the radar variables to the effects of hailstorms at the ground. Hail size information was arbitrarily broken down into bins of reported hail to investigate the relation between hail size and radar parameters. The results show that the areas where hail and damage were reported are well captured by the footprints and magnitude of the radar variables. The average values of the radar parameters corresponding to hail size bins increase with the increase of hail diameter. A steeper increasing trend characterizes the vertically integrated liquid density and hail kinetic energy flux. The results show a good agreement between weather radar data and surface reports.
Water vapour source identification for daily rain events at Ahmedabad in semi‐arid western India: wind trajectory analyses
Authors: Deshpande R. D. , Dave Medha , Padhya Virendra , Kumar Hrishikesh , Gupta S. K.
Published: October 2015

The Arabian Sea (AS), the Bay of Bengal (BOB) and continental recycling are three principal vapour sources identified for the rain events at Ahmedabad located in semi‐arid western India. In the present study, the 48 h backward wind trajectories, at 6 h intervals, converging at an altitude of 1.5 km above the ground, for 120 daily rain events during the monsoon seasons of 2005–2008, have been examined using HYsplit Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model. Temperature, relative humidity, altitude and rainfall along each trajectory were studied at hourly intervals. The temperature and relative humidity data were used to compute the absolute humidity (g m−3) of the air parcel at its location at hourly intervals. The relationship between the height of the air parcel, its relative humidity and rainfall along each trajectory was used to identify the vapour pick‐up region. The region around the maximum value of absolute humidity for each trajectory was designated as the dominant vapour pick‐up region for each rain event at Ahmedabad. In this manner, principal vapour source identification was unambiguously possible for 93.3% of all the 120 rain events. The fraction of total events and the fractions of total rainfall attributable to the three principal vapour sources, respectively, are: AS, 68.3 and 62.1%; BOB, 2.5 and 1.5%; recycled, 22.5 and 24.5%; mixed, 6.7 and 11.8%. Most of the rain events with recycled vapour contribution occur during the latter part of the monsoon season, namely during September.
Supermicrosurgical free sensate superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap for reconstruction of a soft tissue defect of the ankle in a 1‐year‐old child
Authors: Iida Takuya , Yamamoto Takumi , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Abe Naho , Tsuchiya Masato , Nemoto Naho , Watanabe Shoji
Published: October 2015

Although a superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap has recently been widely used owing to its various advantages, reports on its use in the pediatric population are limited. A case of a supermicrosurgical reconstruction of a soft tissue defect of the ankle associated with the congenital deficiency of the tibia using a free sensate SCIP flap in a 1‐year‐old child has been presented. The correction of the valgus deformity of the ankle resulted in a soft tissue defect, which required flap coverage. The lateral cutaneous branch of the intercostal nerve of the flap was coapted with the deep peroneal nerve for sensory recovery. Postoperative course was uneventful and the flap completely survived. The patient was able to ambulate independently at 7 months after surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the youngest case of a SCIP flap transfer in literature. This case showed that young age is not a contraindication for SCIP flap transfer. It is believed that the SCIP flap procedure may be a useful option for free flap reconstruction in children. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:254–258, 2016.
Proteomics in the genome engineering era
Authors: Vandemoortele Giel , Gevaert Kris , Eyckerman Sven
Published: October 2015

Genome engineering experiments used to be lengthy, inefficient, and often expensive, preventing a widespread adoption of such experiments for the full assessment of endogenous protein functions. With the revolutionary clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 technology, genome engineering became accessible to the broad life sciences community and is now implemented in several research areas. One particular field that can benefit significantly from this evolution is proteomics where a substantial impact on experimental design and general proteome biology can be expected. In this review, we describe the main applications of genome engineering in proteomics, including the use of engineered disease models and endogenous epitope tagging. In addition, we provide an overview on current literature and highlight important considerations when launching genome engineering technologies in proteomics workflows.