bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ligand Rearrangements at Fe/S Cofactors: Slow Isomerization of a Biomimetic [2Fe‐2S] Cluster
Authors: Bergner Marie , Roy Lisa , Dechert Sebastian , Neese Frank , Ye Shengfa , Meyer Franc
Published: March 2017

Ligand exchange plays an important role in the biogenesis of Fe/S clusters, most prominently during cluster transfer from a scaffold protein to its target protein. Although in vivo and in vitro studies have provided some insight into this process, the microscopic details of the ligand exchange steps are mostly unknown. In this work, the kinetics of the ligand rearrangement in a biomimetic [2Fe‐2S] cluster with mixed S/N capping ligands have been studied. Two geometrical isomers of the cluster are present in solution, and mechanistic insight into the isomerization process was obtained by variable‐temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy. Combined experimental and computational results reveal that this is an associative process that involves the coordination of a solvent molecule to one of the ferric ions. The cluster isomerizes at least two orders of magnitude faster in its protonated and mixed‐valent states. These findings may contribute to a deeper understanding of cluster transfer and sensing processes occurring in Fe/S cluster biogenesis.
Supported Rhodium Catalysts for Ammonia–Borane Hydrolysis: Dependence of the Catalytic Activity on the Highest Occupied State of the Single Rhodium Atoms
Authors: Wang Liangbing , Li Hongliang , Zhang Wenbo , Zhao Xiao , Qiu Jianxiang , Li Aowen , Zheng Xusheng , Hu Zhenpeng , Si Rui , Zeng Jie
Published: March 2017

Supported metal nanocrystals have exhibited remarkable catalytic performance in hydrogen generation reactions, which is influenced and even determined by their supports. Accordingly, it is of fundamental importance to determine the direct relationship between catalytic performance and metal–support interactions. Herein, we provide a quantitative profile for exploring metal–support interactions by considering the highest occupied state in single‐atom catalysts. The catalyst studied consisted of isolated Rh atoms dispersed on the surface of VO2 nanorods. It was observed that the activation energy of ammonia–borane hydrolysis changed when the substrate underwent a phase transition. Mechanistic studies indicate that the catalytic performance depended directly on the highest occupied state of the single Rh atoms, which was determined by the band structure of the substrates. Other metal catalysts, even with non‐noble metals, that exhibited significant catalytic activity towards NH3BH3 hydrolysis were rationally designed by adjusting their highest occupied states.
A Structurally Characterized Organometallic Plutonium(IV) Complex
Authors: Apostolidis Christos , Walter Olaf , Vogt Jochen , Liebing Phil , Maron Laurent , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: March 2017

The blood‐red plutonocene complex Pu(1,3‐COT′′)(1,4‐COT′′) (4; COT′′=η8‐bis(trimethylsilyl)cyclooctatetraenyl) has been synthesized by oxidation of the anionic sandwich complex Li[Pu(1,4‐COT′′)2] (3) with anhydrous cobalt(II) chloride. The first crystal structure determination of an organoplutonium(IV) complex revealed an asymmetric sandwich structure for 4 where one COT′′ ring is 1,3‐substituted while the other retains the original 1,4‐substitution pattern. The electronic structure of 4 has been elucidated by a computational study, revealing a probable cause for the unexpected silyl group migration.
Self‐assembled Pd nanoparticle‐containing ionic liquid: Efficient and reusable catalyst for the Heck reaction in water
Authors: Zong Yingxiao , Wang Junke , An Pengli , Yue Guoren , Pan Yi , Wang Xicun
Published: March 2017

A self‐assembled Pd nanoparticle‐containing ionic liquid as metal–organic polymer was successfully prepared. The structure of the catalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared and 1H NMR spectroscopies, scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis. The catalyst was effectively employed in the palladium‐catalyzed Heck reaction in water as a green solvent. Moreover, due to its stability the catalyst can be recovered simply and effectively and reused nine times without much loss of activity.
Manganese(II) tetrasulfophthalocyanine covalently supported on natural silk: A new highly active catalyst for synthesis of benzoxazepine derivatives in water
Authors: Hezarkhani Zeinab , Faroghi Mohammad Tayeb , Shaabani Ahmad
Published: March 2017

Natural silk as a biodegradable, biocompatible, renewable, green and abundant biomaterial was used as a support for chemical immobilization of a water‐soluble manganese(II) complex with a phthalocyanine ligand possessing covalent binding ability. The prepared manganese(II) tetrasulfophthalocyanine complex supported on natural silk revealed efficient catalytic activity and reusability for the synthesis of benzoxazepine derivatives in water at room temperature.
Synthesis, characterization, cytotoxicity and computational studies of new phosphine‐ and carbodithioate‐based palladium(II) complexes
Authors: Nawaz Hamid , Waseem Amir , Zia‐ur‐Rehman  , Nafees Muhammad , Arshad Muhammad Nadeem , Rashid Umer
Published: March 2017

In quest of new metallo‐pharmaceuticals with enhanced anticancer activity, four new phosphine‐ and carbodithioate‐based Pd(II) complexes of the type [(R)CS2Pd(PR3)Cl] (where R = 4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)piperazine (1, 2), dibenzyl (3, 4); PR3 = diphenyl(p‐tolyl)phosphine (1, 3), tris(4‐tolyl)phosphine (2, 4)) were synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared and NMR (1H, 13C and 31P) spectroscopies and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The X‐ray diffraction data confirmed the pseudo square‐planar geometry ensuring bidentate coordination mode of carbodithioate ligands. Anticancer activity of the synthesized complexes and their ligands was assessed against human lung (A549), breast (MCF‐7) and prostate (PC3) carcinoma cells using MTT assay. All the tested compounds showed activity in micromolar range. In many cases, the cytotoxicity of the synthesized complexes was higher than or comparable to that of the standard drugs cisplatin and doxorubicin. Complex 3 emerged as the most promising compound with the lowest IC50 values of 4.83, 3.72 and 5.11 μM for A549, MCF‐7 and PC3 carcinoma cell lines, respectively. DNA binding studies were also carried out using UV–visible spectroscopy. We extended our investigations to explore the mechanism of anticancer activity using in silico tools. Based on the mechanism of action of standard drugs used, extensive docking studies were carried out on the three different biomolecular targets.
Novel nano molten salt tetra‐2,3‐pyridiniumporphyrazinato‐oxo‐vanadium tricyanomethanide as a vanadium surface‐free phthalocyanine catalyst: Application to Strecker synthesis of α‐aminonitrile derivatives
Authors: Baghery Saeed , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Safaiee Maliheh , Alonso Diego A. , Khoshnood Abbas
Published: March 2017

Efficient and recyclable novel nano tetra‐2,3‐pyridiniumporphyrazinato‐oxo‐vanadium tricyanomethanide, {[VO(TPPA)][C(CN)3]4}, as a vanadium surface‐free phthalocyanine‐based molten salt catalyst was successfully designed, produced and used for the Strecker synthesis of α‐aminonitrile derivatives through a one‐pot three‐component reaction between aromatic aldehydes, trimethylsilyl cyanide and aniline derivatives under neat conditions at 50 °C. This catalyst was well characterized using Fourier transform infrared, UV–visible, X‐ray photoelectron and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopies, X‐ray diffraction, scanning and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopies, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and thermogravimetric analysis. The catalyst can be simply recovered and reused several times without significant loss of catalytic activity.
Green synthesis of reduced graphene oxide/Fe3O4/Ag ternary nanohybrid and its application as magnetically recoverable catalyst in the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol
Authors: Thu Tran Viet , Ko Pil Ju , Nguyen To Van , Vinh Nguyen Thanh , Khai Doan Minh , Lu Le Trong
Published: March 2017

Materials having both magnetic and catalytic properties have shown great potential for practical applications. Here, a reduced graphene oxide/iron oxide/silver nanohybrid (rGO/Fe3O4/Ag NH) ternary material was prepared by green synthesis of Ag on pre‐synthesized rGO/Fe3O4. The as‐prepared rGO/Fe3O4/Ag NH was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, transmission electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. rGO sheets were covered with Fe3O4 (8–16 nm) and Ag (18–40 nm) nanoparticles at high densities. The mass percentages were 13.47% (rGO), 62.52% (Fe3O4) and 24.01% (Ag). rGO/Fe3O4/Ag NH exhibited superparamagnetic behavior with high saturated magnetization (29 emu g−1 at 12 kOe), and efficiently catalyzed the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) with a rate constant of 0.37 min−1, comparable to those of Ag‐based nanocatalysts. The half‐life of 4‐NP in the presence of rGO/Fe3O4/Ag NH was ca 1.86 min. rGO/Fe3O4/Ag NH could be magnetically collected and reused, and retained a high conversion efficiency of 94.4% after the fourth cycle. rGO/Fe3O4/Ag NH could potentially be used as a magnetically recoverable catalyst in the reduction of 4‐NP and environmental remediation.
Synthesis of poly(propylene imine) dendrimers via homogeneous reduction process using lithium aluminium hydride: Bioconjugation with folic acid and doxorubicin release kinetics
Authors: Golshan Marzieh , Salami‐Kalajahi Mehdi , Roghani‐Mamaqani Hossein , Mohammadi Maryam
Published: March 2017

The heterogeneous reduction process for synthesis of poly(propylene imine) (PPI) dendrimer has been replaced by a novel and homogeneous process. Accordingly, to prepare half generations, acrylonitrile was added to amine groups via Michael addition reaction. Then, nitrile groups were reduced via homogeneous hydrogenation using lithium aluminium hydride to synthesize fifth‐generation PPI dendrimers with ethylenediamine core. Also, peripheral primary amine groups were conjugated with folic acid (FA). Fourier transform infrared and 13C NMR spectroscopies and gel permeation chromatograph y were used to prove the synthesis of the various structures. Finally fifth‐generation and FA‐conjugated fifth‐generation PPI dendrimers were loaded with doxorubicin and exposed to environments with different pH values to examine the release properties of the structures. Also, drug release kinetics was investigated by fitting experimental data with various release models. The synthesized dendritic structures showed Higuchi model release behaviour due to better solubility of drug in release media with respect to dendrimer cavities.
Functional analysis of two polygalacturonase genes in Apolygus lucorum associated with eliciting plant injury using RNA interference
Authors: Zhang Wanna , Liu Bing , Lu Yanhui , Liang Gemei
Published: March 2017

Salivary enzymes of many piercing–sucking insects lead to host plant injury. The salivary enzymes, polygalacturonase (PGs), act in insect feeding. PG family genes have been cloned from the mirid bug Apolygus lucorum, a pest of cotton and other host crops in China. We investigated the function of two PG genes that are highly expressed in A. lucorum nymphs (PG3‐4) and adults (PG3‐5), using siRNA injection‐based RNA interference (RNAi). Accumulation of mRNA encoding both genes and their cognate proteins was significantly reduced (>60%) in experimental compared control green fluorescent protein (GFP) siRNA‐treated mirids at 48 h post injection. Injury levels of cotton buds were also significantly reduced after injecting saliva isolated from PG3‐4 and PG3‐5 siRNA‐treated A. lucorum. These results demonstrate that these two PG act in A. lucorum elicitation of plant injury.
Diclofenac‐Based Hydrazones and Spirothiazolidinones: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Kocabalkanlı Ayşe , Cihan‐Üstündağ Gökçe , Naesens Lieve , Mataracı‐Kara Emel , Nassozi Mebble , Çapan Gültaze
Published: March 2017

We report here the synthesis, structural characterization, and biological evaluation of novel diclofenac‐based hydrazone (4a–f) and spirothiazolidinone (5a–f, 6a–f) derivatives designed as potential antimicrobial agents. The compounds were evaluated in vitro for their antiviral activity against a wide spectrum of DNA and RNA viruses. They were further screened in vitro against different strains of bacteria and fungi. The hydrazone derivatives, 4a and 4c–f, were found to be active against herpesviruses (HSV‐1, HSV‐2, and HSV‐1 TK−), vaccinia virus, and Coxsackie B4 virus, with EC50 values between 6.6 µg/mL and 14.7 μg/mL, and the selectivity index values were greater than 10 for 4a and 4f. The newly synthesized compounds (4–6) were inactive against the bacterial and the fungal strains tested, at levels below 2500, 1250, or 625 μg/mL. Interestingly, the key intermediate 3 with a free hydrazide moiety displayed antifungal properties against Candida albicans and C. parapsilosis at MIC values of 4.88 µg/mL and 78.12 μg/mL, respectively.
Hierarchical parallel model for improving performance on differential evolution
Authors: Tardivo María Laura , Caymes‐Scutari Paola , Bianchini Germán , Méndez‐Garabetti Miguel
Published: March 2017

This paper presents a parallel distributed model for the Differential Evolution algorithm. The proposed model, Hierarchical Island‐Based Model for Differential Evolution, follows a double‐hierarchy master‐worker scheme and offers two parallelism levels. In this proposal, the processes are associated with certain cooperation hierarchy, allowing them to explore in a more comprehensive way the search space of the problem at hand. A comparative study with other algorithms from the state of art is also presented. The results show that Hierachical Island‐Based Model for Differential Evolution is a flexible model and achieves good performance in terms of results quality and computing time.
Assessing the performance portability of modern parallel programming models using TeaLeaf
Authors: Martineau Matthew , McIntosh‐Smith Simon , Gaudin Wayne
Published: March 2017

In this work, we evaluate several emerging parallel programming models: Kokkos, RAJA, OpenACC, and OpenMP 4.0, against the mature CUDA and OpenCL APIs. Each model has been used to port Tealeaf, a miniature proxy application, or mini app, that solves the heat conduction equation and belongs to the Mantevo Project. We find that the best performance is achieved with architecture‐specific implementations but that, in many cases, the performance portable models are able to solve the same problems to within a 5% to 30% performance penalty. While the models expose varying levels of complexity to the developer, they all achieve reasonable performance with this application. As such, if this small performance penalty is permissible for a problem domain, we believe that productivity and development complexity can be considered the major differentiators when choosing a modern parallel programming model to develop applications like Tealeaf.
Evaluation of DVFS techniques on modern HPC processors and accelerators for energy‐aware applications
Authors: Calore Enrico , Gabbana Alessandro , Schifano Sebastiano Fabio , Tripiccione Raffaele
Published: March 2017

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important for computing systems, in particular for large scale High Performance Computing (HPC) facilities. In this work, we evaluate, from a user perspective, the use of Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling techniques, assisted by the power and energy monitoring capabilities of modern processors to tune applications for energy efficiency. We run selected kernels and a full HPC application on 2 high‐end processors widely used in the HPC context, namely, an NVIDIA K80 GPU and an Intel Haswell CPU. We evaluate the available trade‐offs between energy‐to‐solution and time‐to‐solution, attempting a function‐by‐function frequency tuning. We finally estimate the benefits obtainable running the full code on an HPC multi‐GPU node, with respect to default clock frequency governors. We instrument our code to accurately monitor power consumption and execution time without the need of any additional hardware, and we enable it to change CPUs and GPUs clock frequencies while running. We analyze our results on the different architectures using a simple energy‐performance model and derive a number of energy saving strategies, which can be easily adopted on recent high‐end HPC systems for generic applications.
Aptamer entrapment in microfluidic channel using one‐step sol‐gel process, in view of the integration of a new selective extraction phase for lab‐on‐a‐chip
Authors: Perréard Camille , d'Orlyé Fanny , Griveau Sophie , Liu Baohong , Bedioui Fethi , Varenne Anne
Published: March 2017

There is a great demand for integrating sample treatment into μTASs. In this context, we developed a new sol‐gel phase for extraction of trace compounds in complex matrices. For this purpose, the incorporation of aptamers in silica‐based gel within PDMS/glass microfluidic channels was performed for the first time by a one‐step sol‐gel process. The effective gel attachment onto microchannel walls and aptamer incorporation in the polymerized gel were evaluated using fluorescence microscopy. A good gel stability and aptamer incorporation inside the microchannel was demonstrated upon rinsing and over storage time. The ability of gel‐encapsulated aptamers to interact with its specific target (either sulforhodamine B as model fluorescent target, or diclofenac, a pain killer drug) was assessed too. The binding capacity of entrapped aptamers was quantified (in the micromolar range) and the selectivity of the interaction was evidenced. Preservation of aptamers binding affinity to target molecules was therefore demonstrated. Dissociation constant of the aptamer‐target complex and interaction selectivity were evaluated similar to those in bulk solution. This opens the way to new selective on‐chip SPE techniques for sample pretreatment.
Harnessing diversity from ecosystems to crops to genes
Authors: Buchanan‐Wollaston Vicky , Wilson Zoe , Tardieu François , Beynon Jim , Denby Katherine
Published: March 2017

To feed humanity, while maintaining a stable and diverse biosphere, crop science needs to adapt to an open research environment where genetic resources and the data demonstrating the environments in which they are effective are freely shared. The challenge faced is to expand crop production on a reduced land area, due to environmental degradation caused by human encroachment and climate change, while maintaining biodiversity. Individual researchers are discovering alleles and genetic combinations that are effective in certain environments but not in others. These data and alleles are useful globally to speed progress in breeding for similar environments while not wasting time on ineffective genotypes. However, currently, there are significant barriers to the sharing of genetic resources and their underpinning data, which must be overcome if we are to sustain the planet for future generations.
A functional mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 signaling is indispensable for c‐Myc‐driven hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Liu Pin , Ge Mengmeng , Hu Junjie , Li Xiaolei , Che Li , Sun Kun , Cheng Lili , Huang Yuedong , Pilo Maria G. , Cigliano Antonio , Pes Giovanni M. , Pascale Rosa M. , Brozzetti Stefania , Vidili Gianpaolo , Porcu Alberto , Cossu Antonio , Palmieri Giuseppe , Sini Maria C. , Ribback Silvia , Dombrowski Frank , Tao Junyan , Calvisi Diego F. , Chen Ligong , Chen Xin
Published: March 2017

Amplification and/or activation of the c‐Myc proto‐oncogene is one of the leading genetic events along hepatocarcinogenesis. The oncogenic potential of c‐Myc has been proven experimentally by the finding that its overexpression in the mouse liver triggers tumor formation. However, the molecular mechanism whereby c‐Myc exerts its oncogenic activity in the liver remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) cascade is activated and necessary for c‐Myc‐dependent hepatocarcinogenesis. Specifically, we found that ablation of Raptor, the unique member of mTORC1, strongly inhibits c‐Myc liver tumor formation. Also, the p70 ribosomal S6 kinase/ribosomal protein S6 and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E‐binding protein 1/eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E signaling cascades downstream of mTORC1 are required for c‐Myc‐driven tumorigenesis. Intriguingly, microarray expression analysis revealed up‐regulation of multiple amino acid transporters, including solute carrier family 1 member A5 (SLC1A5) and SLC7A6, leading to robust uptake of amino acids, including glutamine, into c‐Myc tumor cells. Subsequent functional studies showed that amino acids are critical for activation of mTORC1 as their inhibition suppressed mTORC1 in c‐Myc tumor cells. In human hepatocellular carcinoma specimens, levels of c‐Myc directly correlate with those of mTORC1 activation as well as of SLC1A5 and SLC7A6. Conclusion: Our current study indicates that an intact mTORC1 axis is required for c‐Myc‐driven hepatocarcinogenesis; thus, targeting the mTOR pathway or amino acid transporters may be an effective and novel therapeutic option for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with activated c‐Myc signaling. (Hepatology 2017;66:167–181).
Monotherapy with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for multiple drug‐resistant chronic hepatitis B: 3‐year trial
Authors: Lim Young‐Suk , Lee Yung Sang , Gwak Geum‐Youn , Byun Kwan Soo , Kim Yoon Jun , Choi Jonggi , An Jihyun , Lee Han Chu , Yoo Byung Chul , Kwon So Young
Published: March 2017

Combination therapy has been recommended for the treatment of patients harboring multiple drug‐resistant hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, we recently demonstrated that monotherapy with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) for 48 weeks displayed noninferior efficacy to TDF plus entecavir (ETV) combination therapy in patients with HBV resistant to multiple drugs, including ETV and adefovir. Nonetheless, whether prolonged TDF monotherapy would be safe and increase the virologic response rate in these patients was unclear. Among 192 patients with HBV‐resistance mutations to ETV and/or adefovir, who were randomized to receive TDF monotherapy (n = 95) or TDF/ETV combination therapy (n = 97) for 48 weeks, 189 agreed to continue TDF monotherapy (TDF‐TDF group) or to switch to TDF monotherapy (TDF/ETV‐TDF group) and 180 (93.8%) completed the 144‐week study. Serum HBV DNA <15 IU/mL at week 48, the primary efficacy endpoint, was achieved in 66.3% in the TDF‐TDF group and 68.0% in the TDF/ETV‐TDF group (P = 0.80). At week 144, the proportion with HBV DNA <15 IU/mL increased to 74.5%, which was significantly higher compared with that at week 48 (P = 0.03), without a significant difference between groups (P = 0.46). By on‐treatment analysis, a total of 79.4% had HBV DNA <15 IU/mL at week 144. Transient virologic breakthrough occurred in 6 patients, which was due to poor drug adherence. At week 144, 19 patients who had HBV DNA levels >60 IU/mL qualified for genotypic resistance analysis, and 6 retained some of their baseline resistance mutations of HBV. No patients developed additional resistance mutations throughout the study period. Conclusion: TDF monotherapy was efficacious and safe for up to 144 weeks, providing an increasing rate of virologic response in heavily pretreated patients with multidrug‐resistant HBV. (Hepatology 2017;66:772–783).
Effect of participant physiques on increases in shank circumference for the two prolonged standing conditions
Authors: Chen Yi‐Lang , Wu Bing‐Ze , Huang Ding‐Hau
Published: March 2017

This study examined the effect of participant physique on the increase in shank circumference (ISC) for the 2‐hr standing. We recruited 20 healthy male participants (10 with normal body mass index (BMI) and 10 who were overweight) and examined their ISC every 20 min under two prolonged standing conditions (static and intermittent standing). Results showed that prolonged standing types, physiques, and sustained time significantly influence the ISC. The ISC during intermittent standing (mean = 0.38 cm) was significantly lower than that observed during static standing (mean = 0.52cm). That is, 1 min of relaxation after every 20 min of standing can effectively relieve the load on the participants’ shank during standing. The normal (BMI = 21.9) group exhibited a significantly higher ISC than the overweight group (BMI = 26.5) did. This increase was also reflected in the subjective discomfort rating results. The standing type may be more dominant than the worker's physique on the lower‐limb loading when performing prolonged standing tasks.
Effects of hexavalent chromium on performance, extracellular polymeric substances and microbial community structure of anaerobic activated sludge in a sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Liu Yao , Jin Ruofei , Liu Guangfei , Tian Tian , Zhou Jiti
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Bioremediation of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) was considered a promising and cost‐effective alternative to chemical and physical methods. However, Cr(VI) had toxic effects on microorganisms. This study focused on exploring the effects of different Cr(VI) concentrations on the performance of an anaerobic activated sludge reactor, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and microbial community structure.

RESULTS

Anaerobic sludge reduced and immobilized 100.0 mg L−1 Cr(VI) in 24 h. When the Cr(VI) concentration was increased from 0.0 to 50.0 mg L−1, the production of EPS was enhanced from 231.4 to 1262.9 mg g−1 VSS. With 80.0 mg L−1 Cr(VI) and 120.0 mg L−1 Cr(VI), EPS production was inhibited. Increase of Cr(VI) concentration changed the EPS components and had distinct effects on the functional groups of EPS. In addition, the increase of Cr(VI) stress reduced the abundance of most bacteria.

CONCLUSION

Low Cr(VI) concentrations had no effect on CODCr and NO3‐N removal, while 120.0 mg L−1 Cr(VI) seriously inhibited on CODCr, NO3‐N and Cr(VI) removal. This was due to the toxicity and electron competition ability of Cr(VI). High Cr(VI) concentrations (80.0 and 120.0 mg L−1) also inhibited EPS production. Cr(VI) reduction was closely related with EPS. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative gastrointestinal morphology of Tachyoryctes splendens (Rüppell, 1835) and Heliophobius emini, (Noack, 1894) two species of East African mole‐rats
Authors: Sahd Lauren , Pereira Daniella L. , Bennett Nigel C. , Kotzé Sanet H.
Published: March 2017

Tachyoryctes splendens (Northeast African mole‐rat) and Heliophobius emini (Emin's mole‐rat) are two African mole‐rats that represent separate allopatric rodent families namely Spalacidae and Bathyergidae respectively. While these species consume a similar diet of underground plant storage organs such as roots and tubers, T. splendens has been reported to additionally consume small amounts of aerial foliage. This study aims to provide detailed gross morphological and histological morphometric analyses of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of these two subterranean species. The formalin fixed gastrointestinal tracts of T. splendens (n = 9) and H. emini (n = 6) were photographed, weighed and measured. The length and basal surface areas were calculated for each anatomically distinct region. Representative histological samples were prepared and stained using Hematoxylin and Eosin. Microscopic luminal measurements were used to calculate a surface enlargement factor and the luminal surface area of each region. Tachyoryctes splendens had a large double chambered hemi‐glandular stomach with a macroscopically visible transition from keratinized stratified squamous epithelium to glandular epithelium. The cecum was large and the luminal surface revealed a single spiral fold. The ascending colon of T. splendens was arranged in a spiral, with two centripetal and two centrifugal windings. The descending colon was arranged in a single parallel loop, similar to H. emini. A narrow colonic groove was accompanied by V‐shaped folds on either side. Heliophobius emini had a simple glandular stomach, a large, haustrated cecum that displayed a cecal appendix and the descending colon was arranged in a single parallel loop. The internal aspect of the colon revealed a wide colonic groove extending from the ceco‐colic junction to distal colon. As both species originate from a similar geographical region and ingest very similar diets, it is likely that the differences in the GIT morphology are attributed to phylogeny as the species represent two different families of mole‐rats.
Duckling survival of mallards in Southland, New Zealand
Authors: Garrick Erin J. , Amundson Courtney L. , Seddon Philip J.
Published: March 2017

The southern portion of New Zealand's South Island is a productive area for mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) despite a notable lack of permanent or semi‐permanent wetlands. Most broods are reared in pastures that may or may not be flooded with ephemeral water. In recent years, there has been an increased conversion from continuous to sporadic grazing that has resulted in a functional change in the emergent and upland vegetation available for broods. In 2014, we investigated mallard duckling survival on different pastures relative to a suite of characteristics pertaining to the adult female, clutch, brood, weather, and habitat. We monitored 438 ducklings from 50 radio‐marked females to 30 days post‐hatch. Duckling survival was unaffected by pasture type but increased with duckling age, the presence of ephemeral water, and with greater distance from the nearest anthropogenic structure. Survival was lower for broods of second year (SY) females than for broods of after‐second year (ASY) females, in areas with more dense cover, and when ducklings moved, on average, greater daily distances. Cumulative 30‐day duckling survival ranged from 0.11 for ducklings of SY females without ephemeral water present to 0.46 for ducklings of ASY females with ephemeral water present. Therefore, increasing available seasonal water sources may increase duckling survival. Further, narrow, linear patches of dense cover present in our study could support a greater abundance of predators or increase their foraging efficiency. As such, managers could consider increasing patch sizes of dense cover to reduce predator efficiency, and employing predator removal in these areas to improve duckling survival. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
δ56Fe in seabird guano reveals extensive recycling of iron in the Southern Ocean ecosystem
Authors: Wing S. R. , Gault‐Ringold M. , Stirling C. H. , Wing L. C. , Shatova O. A. , Frew R. D.
Published: March 2017

Availability of iron limits productivity in the Southern Ocean where vast regions of high‐nitrogen low‐chlorophyll conditions are punctuated by hotspots of production surrounding the subAntarctic islands. Here, we compare patterns in accumulation of iron, as indicated by [Fe] and Fe : C (from Wing et al. ), with proxies for uptake of iron within food webs, as indicated by Fe : Al and δ56Fe within the subAntarctic Auckland Island ecosystem. We compare these proxies for dynamics of iron within egested material collected from six seabird species, representing three distinct foraging guilds. Fractions of biogenic iron, estimated from Fe : Al, were lowest in the coastal foraging guild (0.83 ± 0.01), and higher in the oceanic and predator guilds (0.94 ± 0.01 and 0.95 ± 0.01), consistent with high rates of biological recycling. The isotopic ratio of iron 56Fe/54Fe, reported as δ56Fe, is depleted in the heavy isotope 56Fe by recycling in the microbial loop, and is likely further depleted in 56Fe when taken up by animals within the food web. δ56Fe was most negative for the oceanic foraging group indicating intensive recycling (−1.16 ± 0.16‰), most positive in the coastal group where direct lithogenic sources of iron are more available (−0.14 ± 0.15‰), and intermediate in the predatory group, representing a mixture and possible fractionation within food webs (−0.37 ± 0.14‰). These data reveal strong contrasts in bioaccumulation and recycling of iron between coastal and oceanic food webs, and important interactions between marine food web structure and biogeochemical processes supporting productivity in the Southern Ocean.
Diamond‐based concept for combining beams at very high average powers
Authors: McKay Aaron , Spence David J. , Coutts David W. , Mildren Richard P.
Published: March 2017

Ever since the laser's invention, there has been great interest in increasing beam output power without detriment to its coherence. Despite great advances having been obtained through the use of a diverse range of approaches, steady‐state beam powers above ten kilowatts remain a significant challenge for solid‐state lasers due to the heightened impact of detrimental nonlinear effects such as thermal lensing. Multiplexing several lasers using beam combination represents a method for surpassing the power barriers of single lasers. Here we propose and demonstrate a novel approach to beam combination and power scaling based on Raman conversion in diamond. Power from multiple non‐collinear pump beams is efficiently transferred onto a single Stokes beam in a single‐pass amplifier. Using three mutually‐independent nanosecond pulsed beams from a free‐running‐linewidth 1064 nm laser, 69% of the total peak pump power of 6.7 kW was transferred onto a TEM00 Stokes seed pulse at 1240 nm in a 9.5 mm long diamond crystal. Compared to other beam combination techniques, diamond beam combination has advantages of relaxed constraints on pump beam mutual coherence, while enabling narrowband output. Thermal considerations for extending from low duty‐cycle to continuous wave operation and higher power levels are discussed.

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An alternative proof of lower bounds for the first eigenvalue on manifolds
Authors: Zhang Yuntao , Wang Kui
Published: March 2017

Recently, Andrews and Clutterbuck [1] gave a new proof of the optimal lower eigenvalue bound on manifolds via modulus of continuity for solutions of the heat equation. In this short note, we give an alternative proof of Theorem 2 in [1]. More precisely, following Ni's method (Section 6 of [5]), we give an elliptic proof of this theorem.
Facile and green methodology for surface‐grafted Al2O3 nanoparticles with biocompatible molecules: preparation of the poly(vinyl alcohol)@poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) nanocomposites
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Sadeghzadeh Rozita
Published: March 2017

The present work describes preparation of modified alumina with biocompatible, water soluble, and treating agents such as citric acid and ascorbic acid. Also, the influence of the modified nanoparticles (NPs) into the blend of poly(vinyl alcohol)@poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (50/50) matrix was studied. At first, citric acid and ascorbic acid as environmental friendly agents were grafted on the surface of Al2O3 NPs. Then, nanocomposites (NCs) with different amounts of modified Al2O3 NPs were prepared via a simple ultrasonic method. The characterizations of the molecular structure of the NCs specified that chemical and physical interactions happened between inorganic and organic counterparts. The mutual effect of modified NPs into the polymer matrix was investigated on the structural, interfacial interaction, thermal stability, and optical properties. The results from morphological characterization confirmed changes in morphology of poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) after loading NPs. Uniform dispersion of modified spherical Al2O3 NPs powders into the matrix of 50/50 polymers was detected by field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray. Adding M‐NPs into the polymer matrix expressively improved the thermal stability of NCs. Peaks in ultraviolet–visible spectra were shifted to the higher absorption. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetic and microwave absorption properties of PVB/Fe3O4 and PVB/NiFe2O4 composites
Authors: Akinay Yuksel , Hayat Fatih , Çakir Mustafa , Akin Emre
Published: March 2017

Electromagnetic and microwave absorbing properties of Polyvinylbutyral (PVB)/Fe3O4 and PVB/NiFe2O4 composites were investigated in the 1‐14 GHz. PVB/filler particles (Fe3O4 and NiFe2O4) composites were prepared with 90/10 mixture ratios via Ultrasonic Probe Sonicator method in solution. The complex permittivity (ε′ − jε′′) and permeability (μ′‐ jμ″) of the composites have been measured at different microwave frequencies in 1–14 GHz employing vector network analyzer (Keysight N9926A). The reflection loss (RL) of composites was calculated and evaluated using theory of the absorbing wall. It was found that, both composites exhibit the large reflection loss and broadband within the frequency range from 1 to 14 GHz for 3, 5, and 7 mm. However, the RL results show that, when the thickness is 7 mm, the minimum RL was found to be −22.9 dB (99% power absorption) at the frequency of 13.93 GHz. The Fe3O4/PVB and NiFe2O4/PVB composites have potential application for microwave and radar absorptions. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3418–3423, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis of hemithioindigo‐based chromopeptides by using the Tmb auxiliary in native chemical ligation studies
Authors: Kitzig S. , Rück‐Braun K.
Published: March 2017

The 4,5,6‐trimethoxy‐2‐mercaptobenzyl auxiliary was used in auxiliary‐based native chemical ligation reactions with Boc‐protected pHTI and mHTI ω‐amino acid thioesters 2a,b for the construction of small hemithioindigo (HTI)‐based chromopeptides 6a,b with a class 1 PDZ binding motif. While reversible tris(2‐carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP)‐HTI adduct formation required moderate use of access TCEP, the Na ascorbate concentration was broadly varied for optimization of the reaction conditions. In the studies presented, the mHTI ω‐amino acid thioester 2b proved to be slightly less reactive than the pHTI ω‐amino acid thioester 2a. Ligated products 5a–d were isolated in 35–81% yield, and also cleavage of the auxiliary proceeded smoothly, furnishing peptides 6a–d in 48–61% yield. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategic Intelligence: The Cognitive Capability to Anticipate Competitor Behavior
Authors: Levine Sheen S. , Bernard Mark , Nagel Rosemarie
Published: March 2017

Research summary:Pursuing sources of entrepreneurial and competitive advantage, researchers have been exploring cognition. We examine how cognitive capabilities affect competitive performance, drawing on two constructs rooted in psychology and economics. A familiar one is analytic skill, the ability to solve abstract problems. To that, we add strategic intelligence — the ability to anticipate competitors' behavior and preempt it. Using incentivized experiments, we measure the constructs in participants, then let them compete for cash in a highly competitive market. Although the market is designed to eliminate any advantages, whether from market structure or strategic resources, some profit much more than others. We trace performance differences to heterogeneity in analytic skill and strategic intelligence, and show how the two fuel superior performance, even against tough competition.

Managerial summary:Why do some entrepreneurs outperform others? How can companies succeed against tough competition? Certainly, some benefit from unique resources, such as patents, and others can winnow competition, as through mergers. But some have entered highly competitive markets, lacking obvious resources, yet managed to achieve impressive success: think Under Armour, Wal‐Mart or Home Depot. Here we test how advantage can stem from managerial cognition. We measure two kinds of cognitive skill in market participants, and then let them vie for cash in intensely competitive markets. Some end up with far more profit than others. Tracing the root of high performance, we find it is predicted by a combination of analytic skills, the ability to solve abstract problems, and strategic intelligence—ability to anticipate competitors' behavior and preempt it. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Resources

This article has earned an Open Data badge for making publicly available the digitally‐shareable data necessary to reproduce the reported results. The data is available athttp://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/P49YA. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science:https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
Large‐scale high‐resolution micro‐XRF analysis of histological structures in the skin of the pigeon beak
Authors: Falkenberg Gerald , Fleissner Gerta , Fleissner Guenther , Alraun Philipp , Boesenberg Ulrike , Spiers Kathryn
Published: March 2017

Histological analysis of biological structures in the avian beak is performed by means of large‐scalehigh‐resolutionmicro‐X‐ray fluorescence analysis using a Maia detector system. Element maps of S, K, Ca, Fe and Zn of square millimeter sizes show distinct cellular and subcellular tissue structures in semi‐thin sections with a resolution at the (sub‐)micrometer scale. Non‐destructive qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the respective trace elements can be performed on the tissue samples. The elemental maps are compared with conventional differential histological stainings of parallel sections. This method is discussed as a pre‐examination tool for subsequent analysis of selected structural sites by diffractive and spectroscopic X‐ray nanoprobe techniques and, after additional ultrasectioning, also by transmission electron microscopy. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seasonality of leaf litter and leaf area index data for various tree species in a cool‐temperate deciduous broad‐leaved forest, Japan, 2005–2014
Authors: Nagai Shin , Nasahara Kenlo Nishida , Yoshitake Shinpei , Saitoh Taku M.
Published: March 2017

This paper reports seasonal data regarding leaf litter for 14 deciduous broad‐leaved species and one evergreen coniferous species as well as leaf area index (LAI) data for the 14 deciduous broad‐leaved species in a cool‐temperate deciduous broad‐leaved forest in Japan. The seasonal leaf biomass of various tree species is important for accurately evaluating ecosystem functions such as photosynthesis and evapotranspiration under climate change. However, there is a lack of freely available, long‐term data. We collected litterfall every 1 to 4 weeks from September or October to November or December each year from 2005 to 2014 in Takayama, Japan (36°08′46″N, 137°25′23″E, 1420 m a.s.l.). After sorting the litter into leaves (according to species categories), stems + branches, and “other”, we dried and weighed the litter groups. We also collected seasonal leaf data (number of leaves and leaf length and width) for each broad‐leaved species, which we recorded every 1 to 4 weeks from April or May to October or November using multiple target shoots. To estimate the LAI in autumn for each deciduous broad‐leaved species, we used a semi‐empirical model of the vertical integration of leaf dry mass per unit leaf area. To estimate the LAI in spring and summer, we used the relationship between the LAI in autumn and the seasonal leaf data. Our data provide input, calibration, and validation parameters for determining LAI based on satellite remote‐sensing observations or radiative transfer models and for use in ecosystem models.
Bioactives, Aromatics and Sensory Properties of Cold‐Pressed and Hexane‐Extracted Lemon (Citrus Limon L.) Seed Oils
Authors: Guneser Buket Aydeniz , Yilmaz Emin
Published: March 2017

The objective of this study was to provide more essential data about the bioactive, aromatic volatile composition and sensory properties of lemon seed oils to possibly establish new application areas of this unexplored new oil. Furthermore, cold pressing and hexane extraction were compared. Catechin, eriocitrin, rutin, naringin, naringenin, hesperidin, neohesperidin and kaempherol as flavonoids, and gallic, syringic, tr‐ferulic, rosmaniric and tr‐2‐hydrocinnamic acids as phenolic acids were quantified in the oils. Naringin, gallic and syringic acids were significantly higher in the cold‐pressed sample. Around 30 different aromatic volatiles were identified in both samples, and, for the majority, the concentrations were higher in the cold‐pressed sample. It was observed that lemon seed oil is very aromatic, mostly characterized by citrus, herbal, terpenic, woody, and floral aroma descriptors. A panel evaluated the oils for sensory properties with 13 different definition terms (clarity, lemon peel, roasted, raw vegetable, grassy, bitter, astringent, waxy, nutty, fatty, spicy and throat‐catching). The oil was defined as very bitter, astringent, spicy and throat‐catching. In conclusion, lemon seed oil was found unsuitable for direct edible use, but might be preferable for its unique aroma and bioactive components for functional food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.
Existing and Future Educational Needs in Graduate and Postgraduate Education
Authors: Eardley Ian , Reisman Yacov , Goldstein Sue , Kramer Andrew , Dean John , Coleman Eli
Published: March 2017

Introduction

This review was designed to make recommendations on future educational needs, principles of curricular development, and how the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) should address the need to enhance and promote human sexuality education around the world.

Aim

To explore the ways in which graduate and postgraduate medical education in human sexuality has evolved and is currently delivered.

Methods

We reviewed existing literature concerning sexuality education, curriculum development, learning strategies, educational formats, evaluation of programs, evaluation of students, and faculty development. We reviewed literature relating to four main areas: (i) the current status of the international regulation of training in sexual medicine; (ii) the current delivery of education and training in sexual medicine; (iii) resident and postgraduate education in sexual medicine surgery; and (iv) education and training for allied health professionals.

Results

The main findings in these four areas are as follows. Sexual medicine has grown considerably as a specialty during the past 20 years, with many drivers being identified. However, the regulatory aspects of training, assessment, and certification are currently in the early stages of development and are in many ways lagging behind the scientific and clinical knowledge in the field. However, there are examples of the development of curricula with accompanying assessments that have attempted to set standards of education and training that might underlie the delivery of high-quality care to patients in sexual medicine. The development of competence assessment has been applied to surgical training in sexual medicine, and there is increasing interest in simulation as a means of enhancing technical skills training. Although the focus of curriculum development has largely been the medical profession, there is early interest in the development of standards for training and education of allied health professionals.

Conclusion

Organizations of professionals in sexual health, such as the ISSM, have an opportunity, and indeed a responsibility, to provide and disseminate learning opportunities, curricula, and standards of training for doctors and allied health professionals in sexual medicine.