bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significance of Surface Trivalent Manganese in the Electrocatalytic Activity of Water Oxidation in Undoped and Doped MnO2 Nanowires
Authors: Li Xiaopeng , Liu Jiong , Zhao Yonghui , Zhang Haojie , Du Fuping , Lin Chao , Zhao Tiejun , Sun Yuhan
Published: June 2015

The oxygen‐evolution reaction (OER) is a bottleneck reaction because of a significant overpotential loss in water electrolysis. Currently, MnO2‐based materials are promising candidates for OER electrocatalysts owing to their abundance and excellent properties. Herein, a hydrothermal method was used to prepare MnO2 nanowires with different diameters. Furthermore, an impregnation method was applied to dope MnO2 nanowires with Ca and Ag ions. Characterization by TEM, XRD, Raman, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 adsorption, and linear‐scanning voltammogram analysis were performed on these materials. It was found that the OER activity of as‐prepared and doped MnO2 nanowires is highly dependent on the fraction of surface trivalent manganese in MnO2 nanowires. Density functional theory calculations of doped MnO2 revealed the delicate change of the electronic properties of MnO2 nanowires after doping.
A Convoluted Polymeric Imidazole Palladium Catalyst: Structural Elucidation and Investigation of the Driving Force for the Efficient Mizoroki–Heck Reaction
Authors: Sato Takuma , Ohno Aya , Sarkar Shaheen M. , Uozumi Yasuhiro , Yamada Yoichi M. A.
Published: June 2015

MPPI‐Pd (7 mol ppm Pd), prepared from poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐N‐vinylimidazole) and (NH4)2PdCl4 by our molecular convolution method, promoted the Mizoroki–Heck reaction in water to give the corresponding coupling products with high yield and reusability. To clarify why the catalyst was so active, structural elucidation and temperature‐dependent absorption/discharge investigation were performed using X‐ray absorption fine structure analysis, Raman and far‐IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and DFT calculations, which provided the structure of cis‐PdCl2L2 (L=imidazole moiety). Moreover, the temperature‐dependent absorption and discharge of aryl iodides and water in MPPI‐Pd were observed with near‐IR spectroscopy and macroscopic observations. The efficient diffusion of organic substrates into the internal nanospaces in MPPI‐Pd and the following discharge of the water molecules at 80 °C should enhance the catalytic activity dramatically as the driving force of the reaction.
Application of Statistical Design to an Industrial‐Scale Dead‐End Ultrafiltration Process
Authors: Shams Mohamed Bin , Mumtaz Faisal , Murali Ashwin , Akbar Waseem , Al‐Bastaki Nader
Published: June 2015

An industrial‐scale dead‐end ultrafiltration system was optimized using statistically designed experiments. Given a certain level of pollutant, a two‐level full factorial design and a central composite design were used to optimize the filtrate production of a single 8‐inch industrial ultrafiltration membrane while manipulating the levels of four factors: feed pressure, backwash pressure, forward filtration time, and backwash time. Analysis of variance and residual analysis were used to validate and check the adequacy of the developed regression models. The optimal levels were later validated experimentally. The predicted filtrate production was in reasonable agreement with the experimental data.
Template‐Free Electrodeposition of Zinc Nanowires from an Ionic Liquid
Authors: Pulletikurthi Giridhar , Shapouri Ghazvini Maryam , Prowald Alexandra , Zein El Abedin Sherif , Endres Frank
Published: June 2015

The template‐free synthesis of zinc nanowires was achieved from Zn(TfO)2 in 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium trifluoromethylsulfonate ([Py1,4]TfO) at 125 °C. The electrodeposition process was evaluated by using cyclic voltammetry. The electrodeposited zinc was characterized by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction. SEM images indicated that the zinc deposits on gold contain nanowires of varying lengths, ranging from approximately 400 nm to 1.2 μm, whereas intertwined nanowire structures were observed on indium tin oxide (ITO) from the same solution. A similar kind of intertwined nanowire structure was also observed on both gold and ITO from ZnCl2/[Py1,4]TfO at the same temperature. The results show that zinc nanowire structures can be achieved from ionic liquids without a template at elevated temperatures.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 by M(CO)4(diimine) Complexes (M=Mo, W): Catalytic Activity Improved by 2,2′‐Dipyridylamine
Authors: Franco Federico , Cometto Claudio , Sordello Fabrizio , Minero Claudio , Nencini Luca , Fiedler Jan , Gobetto Roberto , Nervi Carlo
Published: June 2015

Tetracarbonyl complexes of low‐valent Group VI transition metals (Mo and W), containing diimine bidentate ligands, namely W(CO)4(4,6‐diphenyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine) (1), W(CO)4(6‐(2,6‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐4‐phenyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine) (2), Mo(CO)4(2,2′‐dipyridylamine) (3), and W(CO)4(2,2′‐dipyridylamine) (4), were synthesized and tested as homogeneous catalysts for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 in nonaqueous media. Cyclic voltammetry performed under a CO2 atmosphere, revealed that these complexes have significant catalytic activity in acetonitrile, and gas chromatographic measurements together with exhaustive electrolysis showed that CO is the major reduction product. Mechanistic insights were obtained by IR‐spectroelectrochemical measurements. The substantially different electrocatalytic performances obtained for the two classes of catalysts are compared and discussed.
Designing a New Class of Bases for Nucleic Acid Quadruplexes and Quadruplex‐Active Ligands
Authors: Bazzi Sophia , Novotný Jan , Yurenko Yevgen P. , Marek Radek
Published: June 2015

A new class of quadruplex nucleobases, derived from 3‐deazaguanine, has been designed for various applications as smart quadruplex ligands as well as quadruplex‐based aptamers, receptors, and sensors. An efficient strategy for modifying the guanine quadruplex core has been developed and tested by using quantum chemistry methods. Several potential guanine derivatives modified at the 3‐ or 8‐position or both are analyzed, and the results compared to reference systems containing natural guanine. Analysis of the formation energies (BLYP‐D3(BJ)/def2‐TZVPP level of theory, in combination with the COSMO model for water) in model systems consisting of two and three stacked tetrads with Na+/K+ion(s) inside the internal channel indicates that the formation of structures with 3‐halo‐3‐deazaguanine bases leads to a substantial gain in energy, as compared to the corresponding reference guanine complexes. The results cast light on changes in the noncovalent interactions (hydrogen bonding, stacking, and ion coordination) in a quadruplex stem upon modification of the guanine core. In particular, the enhanced stability of the modified quadruplexes was shown to originate mainly from increased π–π stacking. Our study suggests the 3‐halo‐3‐deazaguanine skeleton as a potential building unit for quadruplex systems and smart G‐quadruplex ligands.
Proton Order–Disorder Phenomena in a Hydrogen‐Bonded Rhodium–η5‐Semiquinone Complex: A Possible Dielectric Response Mechanism
Authors: Mitsumi Minoru , Ezaki Kazunari , Komatsu Yuuki , Toriumi Koshiro , Miyatou Tatsuya , Mizuno Motohiro , Azuma Nobuaki , Miyazaki Yuji , Nakano Motohiro , Kitagawa Yasutaka , Hanashima Takayasu , Kiyanagi Ryoji , Ohhara Takashi , Nakasuji Kazuhiro
Published: June 2015

A newly synthesized one‐dimensional (1D) hydrogen‐bonded (H‐bonded) rhodium(II)–η5‐semiquinone complex, [Cp*Rh(η5‐p‐HSQ‐Me4)]PF6 ([1]PF6; Cp*=1,2,3,4,5‐pentamethylcyclopentadienyl; HSQ=semiquinone) exhibits a paraelectric–antiferroelectric second‐order phase transition at 237.1 K. Neutron and X‐ray crystal structure analyses reveal that the H‐bonded proton is disordered over two sites in the room‐temperature (RT) phase. The phase transition would arise from this proton disorder together with rotation or libration of the Cp* ring and PF6− ion. The relative permittivity εb′ along the H‐bonded chains reaches relatively high values (ca., 130) in the RT phase. The temperature dependence of 13C CP/MAS NMR spectra demonstrates that the proton is dynamically disordered in the RT phase and that the proton exchange has already occurred in the low‐temperature (LT) phase. Rate constants for the proton exchange are estimated to be 10−4–10−6 s in the temperature range of 240–270 K. DFT calculations predict that the protonation/deprotonation of [1]+ leads to interesting hapticity changes of the semiquinone ligand accompanied by reduction/oxidation by the π‐bonded rhodium fragment, producing the stable η6‐hydroquinone complex, [Cp*Rh3+(η6‐p‐H2Q‐Me4)]2+ ([2]2+), and η4‐benzoquinone complex, [Cp*Rh+(η4‐p‐BQ‐Me4)] ([3]), respectively. Possible mechanisms leading to the dielectric response are discussed on the basis of the migration of the protonic solitons comprising of [2]2+ and [3], which would be generated in the H‐bonded chain.
[3+2] Redox‐Neutral Cycloaddition of Nitrocyclopropanes with Styrenes by Visible‐Light Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Chengfeng , Ren Xiang , Xie Hujun , Lu Zhan
Published: June 2015

The first nitro‐group‐initiated redox‐neutral [3+2] cycloaddition of nitrocyclopropanes with alkenes by using visible‐light‐absorbing transition‐metal complexes was reported. High diastereoselectivities were observed for two quaternary carbon centers on the ring and validated by DFT calculations. Spiro‐ or polycyclic structures can be constructed smoothly. Cyclic γ‐amino acid derivatives and polysubstituted cyclic amino alcohols can be obtained easily through reduction of the nitro group.
Octahedral Chiral‐at‐Metal Iridium Catalysts: Versatile Chiral Lewis Acids for Asymmetric Conjugate Additions
Authors: Shen Xiaodong , Huo Haohua , Wang Chuanyong , Zhang Bo , Harms Klaus , Meggers Eric
Published: June 2015

Octahedral iridium(III) complexes containing two bidentate cyclometalating 5‐tert‐butyl‐2‐phenylbenzoxazole (IrO) or 5‐tert‐butyl‐2‐phenylbenzothiazole (IrS) ligands in addition to two labile acetonitrile ligands are demonstrated to constitute a highly versatile class of asymmetric Lewis acid catalysts. These complexes feature the metal center as the exclusive source of chirality and serve as effective asymmetric catalysts (0.5–5.0 mol % catalyst loading) for a variety of reactions with α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds, namely Friedel–Crafts alkylations (94–99 % ee), Michael additions with CH‐acidic compounds (81–97 % ee), and a variety of cycloadditions (92–99 % ee with high d.r.). Mechanistic investigations and crystal structures of an iridium‐coordinated substrates and iridium‐coordinated products are consistent with a mechanistic picture in which the α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds are activated by two‐point binding (bidentate coordination) to the chiral Lewis acid.
Reversible Doping of a Dithienothiophene‐Based Conjugated Microporous Polymer
Authors: Bildirir Hakan , Osken Ipek , Ozturk Turan , Thomas Arne
Published: June 2015

Dithienothiophene (DTT) based conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) were synthesized by bulk and electrochemical oxidative polymerizations. Spectroelectrochemical measurements showed that DTT‐CMP can be reversibly oxidized and reduced, accompanied by a significant change of the absorption properties making the material interesting for electrochromic devices. Reversible doping and dedoping of the bulk polymer network was also observed using iodine and ammonia, respectively. Nitrogen gas sorption measurements of the neutral, doped, and dedoped polymer networks indicated the presence of iodide species within the pores, and the conductivity of the networks is highly increased upon doping with iodine. The introduction of the strong electron donor DTT into a conjugated porous network, and the ability for redox switching, make DTT‐CMPs interesting materials for organo(opto)electronic devices and sensors.
Spatially Controlled Out‐of‐Equilibrium Host–Guest System under Electrochemical Control
Authors: Krabbenborg Sven O. , Veerbeek Janneke , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: June 2015

Self‐assembly to create molecular and nanostructures is typically performed at the thermodynamic minimum. To achieve dynamic functionalities, such as adaptability, internal feedback, and self‐replication, there is a growing focus on out‐of‐equilibrium systems. This report presents the dynamic self‐assembly of an artificial host–guest system at an interface, under control by a dissipative electrochemical process using (electrical) energy, resulting in an out‐of‐equilibrium system exhibiting a supramolecular surface gradient. The gradient, its steepness, rate of formation, and complex surface composition after backfilling, as well as the surface compositions after switching between the different states of the system, are assessed and supported by modelling. Our method shows for the first time an artificial surface‐confined out‐of‐equilibrium system. The electrochemical process parameters provide not only control over the system in time, but also in space.
BF3·Et2O Promoted Sulfuration of Steroidal Sapogenins
Authors: Wang Jun , Wu Jingjing , Tian Weisheng
Published: June 2015

A reaction between steroidal sapogenins and hydrogen sulfide promoted by BF3·Et2O is described. The thiodiosgenin and thiotigogenin comprising a sulfur atom on the F ring can be easily afforded in one step under this mild reaction condition. Furthermore, a hypothetical mechanism is also shown.
Hydrogen Storage Materials for Mobile and Stationary Applications: Current State of the Art
Authors: Lai Qiwen , Paskevicius Mark , Sheppard Drew A. , Buckley Craig E. , Thornton Aaron W. , Hill Matthew R. , Gu Qinfen , Mao Jianfeng , Huang Zhenguo , Liu Hua Kun , Guo Zaiping , Banerjee Amitava , Chakraborty Sudip , Ahuja Rajeev , Aguey‐Zinsou Kondo‐Francois
Published: June 2015

One of the limitations to the widespread use of hydrogen as an energy carrier is its storage in a safe and compact form. Herein, recent developments in effective high‐capacity hydrogen storage materials are reviewed, with a special emphasis on light compounds, including those based on organic porous structures, boron, nitrogen, and aluminum. These elements and their related compounds hold the promise of high, reversible, and practical hydrogen storage capacity for mobile applications, including vehicles and portable power equipment, but also for the large scale and distributed storage of energy for stationary applications. Current understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the interaction of hydrogen with these light compounds is summarized, as well as basic strategies to meet practical targets of hydrogen uptake and release. The limitation of these strategies and current understanding is also discussed and new directions proposed.
Soluble flagellin coimmunization attenuates Th1 priming to Salmonella and clearance by modulating dendritic cell activation and cytokine production
Authors: Flores‐Langarica Adriana , Bobat Saeeda , Marshall Jennifer L. , Yam‐Puc Juan Carlos , Cook Charlotte N. , Serre Karine , Kingsley Robert A. , Flores‐Romo Leopoldo , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Henderson Ian R. , Toellner Kai M. , Cunningham Adam F.
Published: June 2015

Soluble flagellin (sFliC) from Salmonella Typhimurium (STm) can induce a Th2 response to itself and coadministered antigens through ligation of TLR5. These properties suggest that sFliC could potentially modulate responses to Th1 antigens like live STm if both antigens are given concurrently. After coimmunization of mice with sFliC and STm there was a reduction in Th1 T cells (T‐bet+IFN‐γ+ CD4 T cells) compared to STm alone and there was impaired clearance of STm. In contrast, there was no significant defect in the early extrafollicular B‐cell response to STm. These effects are dependent upon TLR5 and flagellin expression by STm. The mechanism for these effects is not related to IL‐4 induced to sFliC but rather to the effects of sFliC coimmunization on DCs. After coimmunization with STm and sFliC, splenic DCs had a lower expression of costimulatory molecules and profoundly altered kinetics of IL‐12 and TNFα expression. Ex vivo experiments using in vivo conditioned DCs confirmed the effects of sFliC were due to altered DC function during a critical window in the coordinated interplay between DCs and naïve T cells. This has marked implications for understanding how limits in Th1 priming can be achieved during infection‐induced, Th1‐mediated inflammation.
Transforming ecosystems: When, where, and how to restore contaminated sites
Authors: Rohr Jason R , Farag Aïda M , Cadotte Marc W , Clements William H , Smith James R , Ulrich Cheryl P , Woods Richard
Published: June 2015

Chemical contamination has impaired ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and the provisioning of functions and services. This has spurred a movement to restore contaminated ecosystems and develop and implement national and international regulations that require it. Nevertheless, ecological restoration remains a young and rapidly growing discipline and its intersection with toxicology is even more nascent and underdeveloped. Consequently, we provide guidance to scientists and practitioners on when, where, and how to restore contaminated ecosystems. Although restoration has many benefits, it also can be expensive, and in many cases systems can recover without human intervention. Hence, the first question we address is: “When should we restore contaminated ecosystems?” Second, we provide suggestions on what to restore—biodiversity, functions, services, all 3, or something else—and where to restore given expected changes to habitats driven by global climate change. Finally, we provide guidance on how to restore contaminated ecosystems. To do this, we analyze critical aspects of the literature dealing with the ecology of restoring contaminated ecosystems. Additionally, we review approaches for translating the science of restoration to on-the-ground actions, which includes discussions of market incentives and the finances of restoration, stakeholder outreach and governance models for ecosystem restoration, and working with contractors to implement restoration plans. By explicitly considering the mechanisms and strategies that maximize the success of the restoration of contaminated sites, we hope that our synthesis serves to increase and improve collaborations between restoration ecologists and ecotoxicologists and set a roadmap for the restoration of contaminated ecosystems. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:273–283. © 2015 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC

Key Points

We merge insights from ecological and economic theory and on-the-ground restoration activities to provide guidance on what endpoints should be targeted for restoration in contaminated ecosystems and when, where, and how to restore ecosystems degraded by contaminants. We encourage practitioners to consider restoration as early as possible (i.e., before injury or before remediation) and to restore both structural and functional endpoints. We also promote consideration of broader landscape and seascape contexts and new ideas and approaches that can overcome the scientific and financial limitations of restoration. We urge more reciprocal transfer of knowledge among theorist and practitioners and academics, industry, government, tribal organizations, NGOs and the public to improve the science of restoration.
Non‐clinical safety evaluation of repeated intramuscular administration of the AS15 immunostimulant combined with various antigens in rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Garçon N. , Silvano J. , Kuper C. F. , Baudson N. , Gérard C. , Forster R. , Segal L.
Published: June 2015

Combination of tumor antigens with immunostimulants is a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy. We assessed animal model toxicity of AS15 combined with various tumor antigens: WT1 (rabbits), or p501, dHER2 and recPRAME (cynomolgus monkeys), administered in seven or 20 dose regimens versus a saline control. Clinical and ophthalmological examinations, followed by extensive post‐mortem pathological examinations, were performed on all animals. Blood hematology and biochemistry parameters were also assessed. Antigen‐specific antibody titers were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Additional assessments in monkeys included electrocardiography and immunohistochemical evaluations of the p501 expression pattern. Transient increases in body temperature were observed 4 h or 24 h after injections of recPRAME + AS15 and dHER2 + AS15. Edema and erythema were observed up to 1 week after most injections of recPRAME + AS15 and all injections of dHER2 + AS15. No treatment‐related effects were observed for electrocardiography parameters. Mean fibrinogen levels were significantly higher in all treated groups compared to controls, but no differences could be observed at the end of the treatment‐free period. Transient but significant differences in biochemistry parameters were observed post‐injection: lower albumin/globulin ratios (p501 + AS15), and higher bilirubin, urea and creatinine (dHER2 + AS15). Pathology examinations revealed significant increases in axillary lymph node mean weights (recPRAME + AS15) compared to controls. A 100% seroconversion rate was observed in all treated groups, but not in controls. p501 protein expression was observed in prostates of all monkeys from studies assessing p501 + AS15. These results suggest a favorable safety profile of the AS15‐containing candidate vaccines, supporting the use of AS15 for clinical development of potential anticancer vaccines. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Applied Toxicology Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Ultrastructure of male reproductive system of Eurydema ventrale Kolenati 1846 (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Özyurt Nurcan , Candan Selami , Suludere Zekiye
Published: June 2015

The male reproductive system of Eurydema ventrale Kolenati 1846 is studied morphologically and histologically by using light, scanning and transmission electron microscopes. The reproductive system of the male E.ventrale consists of a pair of testis, a pair of vas deferens, a pair of seminal vesicles, accessory glands, a bulbus ejaculatorius, a pair of ectodermal sacs, and a ductus ejaculatorius. The testicular follicles have three different development zones (growth zone, maturation zone, and differentiation zone). The testes are connected to the seminal vesicles by the vas deferens that is a specialized in sperm storage. Sperm have an elongated head and a tail (flagellum) with an axonema and two mitochondrial derivatives. Vas deferens and seminal vesicles are fine, long, and cylindrical. The seminal vesicle is connected with bulbus ejaculatorius, which is balloon shaped and surrounded with accessory glands. The bulbus ejaculatorius is continuous with ductus ejaculatorius which is connected to the aedeagus. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:643–653, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of 3,4‐Fused γ‐Lactone‐γ‐Lactam Bicyclic Moieties as Multifunctional Synthons for Bioactive Molecules
Authors: Shaameri Zurina , Azib Nur Aini , Mohamat Mohd Fazli , Hamzah Ahmad Sazali
Published: June 2015

A short approach for the synthesis of 3,4‐fused γ‐lactone‐γ‐lactam bicyclic systems (1) in diastereomeric mixtures from chiral D‐alanine methyl ester hydrochloride is described. The key step towards lactonisation is the reduction of the carbonyl ketone of the 5R‐configured 3,5‐dimethylpyrrolidine‐2,4‐dione diastereomers (8) via sodium borohydride in the presence of hydrochloric acid. With the presence of ethyl acetyl functionality at C3‐position, ester hydrolysis of 8 occurred concomitantly with keto reduction leading to lactonisation and eventually affording the anticipated (3S,4S,5R), (3R,4R,5R), (3R,4S,5R) and (3S,4R,5R) bicyclic moieties. The formation of the fused systems was confirmed by mass spectroscopy (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses.
Systematic study of cell isolation from bovine nucleus pulposus: Improving cell yield and experiment reliability
Authors: Lee Juliana T. Y. , Cheung Kenneth M. C. , Leung Victor Y. L.
Published: June 2015

Differences in matrix compositions in human nucleus pulposus (NP) clinical samples demand different cell isolation protocols for optimal results but there is no clear guide about this to date. Sub‐optimal protocols may result in low cell yield, limited reliability of results or even failure of experiments. Cell yield, viability and attachment of cells isolated from bovine NP tissue with different protocols were estimated by cell counting, Trypan blue staining and cell culturing respectively. RNA was extracted from isolated cells and quantified by Nanodrop spectrometry and RT‐qPCR. Higher collagenase concentration, longer digestion duration and pronase pre‐treatment increased the cell yield. Cell viability remained high (<5% dead cells) even after 0.2% collagenase treatment for overnight. NP cells remained to have high ACAN, COL2A1, CDH2, KRT18, and KRT19 expression compared to muscle cells for different cell isolation conditions tested. Digestion by collagenase alone without the use of pronase could isolate cells from human degenerated NP tissue but clusters of cells were observed. We suggest the use of the disappearance of tissue as an indirect measure of cells released. This study provides a guide for researchers to decide the parameters involved in NP cell isolation for optimal outcome. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1743–1755, 2015.
Effects of Tillage Methods on Soil Carbon and Wind Erosion
Authors: Gao Yong , Dang Xiaohong , Yu Yi , Li Yubao , Liu Yang , Wang Ji
Published: June 2015

Current interest in soil‐conserving tillage in China has developed from the concern that Chinese agricultural land loses 73·8 Mg C annually. Previous research has shown that changing from conventional tillage to conservation tillage field management increases soil C sequestration. The aim of this study is to determine if no tillage with stubble retention can reduce soil carbon loss and erosion compared with conventional tillage for a cornfield in northern China. We found that soil organic C storage (kg m−2) under conservation tillage in the form of no post‐harvest tillage with stubble retention increased from 28% to 62% in the soil depths of 0–30 cm (p < 0·01) compared with the conventional tillage. Retaining post‐harvest stubble with a height of 30 cm and incorporating the stubble into the soil before seeding the next spring increased soil organic carbon the most. Carbon storage (kg ha−1) in aboveground and belowground biomass of the corn plants in seedling and harvest stages was significantly greater (p < 0·01) with stubble retention treatments than with conventional tillage. Carbon content in root biomass in all treatments with stubble retention was significantly greater than that with conventional tillage. Soil erosion estimates in the study area under conservation tillage with stubble retention was significantly lower than that under conventional tillage during the monitoring period. Given the complexities of agricultural systems, it is unlikely that one ideal farming practice is suitable to all soils or different climate conditions, but stubble retention during harvesting and incorporation of the stubble into soil in the next spring appears to be the best choice in the dry northern China where farmlands suffer serious wind erosion. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biomimetic Mussel Adhesive Inspired Anchor to Design ZnO@Poly(3‐Hexylthiophene) Hybrid Core@Corona Nanoparticles
Authors: Awada Hussein , Mezzasalma Leila , Blanc Sylvie , Flahaut Delphine , Dagron‐Lartigau Christine , Lyskawa Joël , Woisel Patrice , Bousquet Antoine , Billon Laurent
Published: June 2015

The functionalization of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles by poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) brush is completed by the combination of a mussel inspired biomimetic anchoring group and Huisgen cyclo‐addition “click chemistry.” Herein, the direct coupling of an azide modified catechol derivative with an alkyne end‐functionalized P3HT is described. This macromolecular binding agent is used to access core@corona ZnO@P3HT with a stable and homogeneous conjugated organic corona. Preliminary photoluminescence measurement proves an efficient electron transfer from the donor P3HT to the acceptor ZnO nanoparticles upon grafting, thus demonstrating the potential of such a combination in organic electronics.

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College Football Attendance: A Panel Study of the Football Championship Subdivision
Authors: Falls Gregory A. , Natke Paul A.
Published: June 2015

Panel data across 8 years for the Football Championship Subdivision are used to estimate regular season game‐day percent of capacity regression equations. Higher ticket prices reduce attendance (elasticity of −1.9). Better team performance, in the short and intermediate terms, and traditional rivalries increase percent of capacity used. Poor weather and higher travel costs decrease it. Fan interest wanes as a season progresses, but this is offset as a team wins more games. Games played on Saturdays, played against conference opponents, or played by teams from the Football Bowl Subdivision increase stadium utilization. Results provide some evidence for the uncertainty of outcome hypothesis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detrimental effects of electron beam irradiation on the cowpea bruchid Callosobruchus maculatus
Authors: Sang Wen , Speakmon Mickey , Zhou Lan , Wang Yu , Lei Chaoliang , Pillai Suresh D , Zhu‐Salzman Keyan
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Electron beam (eBeam) irradiation technology is an environmentally friendly, chemical‐free alternative for disinfesting insect pests of stored grains. The underlying hypothesis is that specific doses of eBeam will have defined detrimental effects on the different life stages. We evaluated the effects of eBeam exposure in a range of doses (0.03–0.12 kGy) on the development of the cowpea bruchid (Callosobruchus maculatus) at various stages of its life cycle.

RESULTS

Differential radiosensitivity was detected during egg development. Early and intermediate stages of eggs never hatched after exposure to a dose of 0.03 kGy, whereas a substantial portion of black‐headed (i.e. late) eggs survived irradiation even at 0.12 kGy. However, further development of the hatched larvae was inhibited. Although midgut protein digestion remained intact, irradiated larvae (0.06 kGy or higher) failed to develop into normal living adults; rather, they died as pupae or abnormally eclosed adults, suggesting a detrimental effect of eBeam on metamorphosis. Emerged irradiated pupae had shorter longevity and were unable to produce any eggs at 0.06 kGy or higher. At this dose range, eggs laid by irradiated adults were not viable. eBeam treatment shortened adult longevity in a dose‐dependent manner. Reciprocal crosses indicated that females were more sensitive to eBeam exposure than their male counterparts. Dissection of the female reproductive system revealed that eBeam treatment prevented formation of oocytes.

CONCLUSION

eBeam irradiation has very defined effects on cowpea bruchid development and reproduction. A dose of 0.06 kGy could successfully impede cowpea burchid population expansion. This information can be exploited for post‐harvest insect control of stored grains. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Electroluminescence enhancement in ultraviolet organic light‐emitting diode with graded hole‐injection and ‐transporting structure
Authors: Zhang Xiaowen , Mo Bingjie , You Fengjiao , Zhou Xiujuan , Liu Liming , Wang Honghang , Wei Bin
Published: June 2015

Electroluminescent intensity and external quantum efficiency (EQE) in ultraviolet organic light‐emitting diodes (UV OLEDs) have been remarkably enhanced by using a graded hole‐injection and ‐transporting (HIT) structure of MoO3/N,N ′‐bis(naphthalen‐1‐yl)‐N,N ′‐bis(phenyl)‐benzidine/MoO3/4,4′‐bis(carbazol‐9‐yl)biphenyl (CBP). The graded‐HIT based UV OLED shows superior short‐wavelength emis‐ sion with spectral peak of ∼410 nm, maximum electroluminescent intensity of 2.2 mW/cm2 at 215 mA/cm2 and an EQE of 0.72% at 5.5 mA/cm2. Impedance spectroscopy is employed to clarify the enhanced hole‐injection and ‐transporting capacity of the graded‐HIT structure. Our results provide a simple and effective approach for constructing efficient UV OLEDs. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spin Hall magnetoresistance in Nb/Y3Fe5O12 hybrids
Authors: Han J. H. , Wang Y. Y. , Yang Q. H. , Wang G. Y. , Pan F. , Song C.
Published: June 2015

We investigate the spin Hall magnetoresistance (SMR) in niobium (Nb) attached to Y3Fe5O12 near the superconducting critical temperature (Tc) of Nb. The SMR vanishes after cooling the sample below Tc, and recovers if the temperature is raised. When a magnetic field larger than the critical field of Nb is applied, the SMR re‐emerges with an enhanced magnitude even if the temperature is below Tc. The experimental results demonstrate that the SMR could be completely suppressed by the coupling between superconducting condensation and spin–orbit interaction in superconductors. In addition to the fundamental physics on the charge–spin interactions in superconductors, our work adds a different dimension to superconducting spintronics. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Understanding and detecting super‐extreme droughts in Southwest China through an integrated approach and index
Authors: Wang Lin , Chen Wen , Zhou Wen , Huang Gang
Published: June 2015

In the last decade, a series of super‐extreme droughts have swept across Southwest China (SWC). However, the essential features behind them are not yet fully understood and traditional drought indices as well as precipitation fail to describe them, due to the lack of a comprehensive treatment of drought. We propose an integrated metric, the Comprehensive Multiscalar Indicator (CMI), as a new criterion for super‐drought detection. Re‐examination of SWC droughts illuminates the essential feature of super‐drought events: a combination of multiple stresses on water resources, which highlights the utility of the CMI.
Diabatic Rossby waves in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Boettcher Maxi , Wernli Heini
Published: June 2015

Diabatic Rossby waves (DRWs) are a special type of low‐level cyclone with a self‐maintaining mechanism given an environment of moderate or strong baroclinicity and abundant moisture. Under certain conditions, these shallow cyclones associated with a cyclonic low‐level PV anomaly can serve as precursors for explosive cyclone intensification. The present study is the first to investigate DRWs in the Southern Hemisphere (SH). Two typical DRW case‐studies are presented and a sophisticated algorithm is used to detect DRWs in operational analysis data from 2001 to 2012. DRWs occur in all ocean basins and seasons with a maximum in summer. On average, about four DRWs are found per month and 12% intensify explosively. Thereby, they contribute 6% to the total set of explosively deepening extratropical cyclones in the SH. DRW tracks originate slightly closer to the Equator than normal extratropical cyclones, and they follow the convergence zones eastward and poleward. This results in a climatological DRW track density similar to a spiral, from the western South Pacific ending in the eastern South Indian Ocean, broken only by the Andes. Typical synoptic situations associated with DRW genesis are identified. The categories include (i) low‐level PV generation by upper‐level induced lifting, (ii) low‐level jet‐induced diabatic PV generation, and (iii) transformation of the low‐tropospheric PV anomaly from another system.
Diet Breadth and Variability in Sander spp. Inferred from Stable Isotopes
Authors: Fincel M. J. , Chipps S. R. , Graeb B. D. S. , Brown M. L.
Published: June 2015

We used stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen to evaluate trophic similarity between sauger Sander canadensis and walleye S. vitreus in three Missouri River impoundments characterized by unique differences in riverine habitat. Mean δ15N was similar for sauger and walleye in each reservoir ranging from 15.7 to 17.8‰ for sauger and 15.2 to 17.7‰ for walleye. However, mean δ13C was greater for sauger (−24‰) than for walleye (−25‰) in Lake Oahe (lacustrine habitat), where rainbow smelt Osmerus mordax is an important prey species for walleye. Variation in δ15N and δ13C values was similar between walleye and sauger in Lewis and Clark Lake (riverine habitat), but was greater for sauger than for walleye in Lake Oahe, implying that in pelagic environments, sauger exhibit a larger diet breadth and lower diet consistency compared with walleyes. Isotope analyses support observations from traditional gut content studies that diet overlap between sauger and walleye varies with environmental conditions and is more similar in riverine food webs than in large lakes and impoundments. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implementation of integral feedback control in biological systems
Authors: Somvanshi Pramod R. , Patel Anilkumar K. , Bhartiya Sharad , Venkatesh K. V.
Published: June 2015

Integral control design ensures that a key variable in a system is tightly maintained within acceptable levels. This approach has been widely used in engineering systems to ensure offset free operation in the presence of perturbations. Several biological systems employ such an integral control design to regulate cellular processes. An integral control design motif requires a negative feedback and an integrating process in the network loop. This review describes several biological systems, ranging from bacteria to higher organisms in which the presence of integral control principle has been hypothesized. The review highlights that in addition to the negative feedback, occurrence of zero‐order kinetics in the process is a key element to realize the integral control strategy. Although the integral control motif is common to these systems, the mechanisms involved in achieving it are highly specific and can be incorporated at the level of signaling, metabolism, or at the phenotypic levels. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2015, 7:301–316. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1307

This article is categorized under:

Biological Mechanisms > Cell Signaling

Analytical and Computational Methods > Dynamical Methods

Physiology > Organismal Responses to Environment
Multiple Osteochondroma of the Hand: Initial and Long-Term Follow-up Study
Authors: Woodside Julie Colantoni , Ganey Timothy , Gaston R. Glenn
Published: June 2015

Background

The purpose is to determine the location and type of osteochondromas in patients with multiple osteochondroma of the hand as well as the presence of shortening and angulation. Second, it aims to establish longitudinal data on the change in tumors.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients with multiple osteochondroma affecting the hand evaluating the location and type of tumors as well as the presence of shortening and angulation is done. We examined radiographs from final follow-up and analyzed them based on patient age at presentation (group I=ages 2–6; II=ages 7–10; III=ages 11–19), to determine changes over time and any differences in the number of tumors, location, and shortening and angulation.

Results

The most affected bones were the index and small finger metacarpals with an increase seen around the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints. The most shortening and angulation were seen on the ulnar side. Group II had the most tumors and the most bones with angulation. Twenty-three hands had longitudinal follow-up with an overall increase of 2.7 tumors per hand with a range of loss of 8 to gain of 16. There was an increase in the number of bones with angulation and shortening. Group I showed the largest increase in tumors, shortening, and angulation.

Conclusions

The ulnar side and bones around the MCP joints are affected most commonly. The largest change was seen as the patients went from young childhood into adolescence, which may be due to rapid growth during this time. This is the largest study of these patients with the longest longitudinal data.
Can Political Parties Evolve If the Political System Does Not?
Authors: Huhtanen Tomi
Published: June 2015

Political parties within democratic systems are facing enormous challenges. The democratic system and political parties have changed relatively little in the course of modern history. However, today's societies and economies are experiencing major changes due to globalisation and the disruptive power of the Internet. Traditional party politics and party activities are no longer as appealing as in the past. Thus political parties need to change to regain their appeal with voters. However, such changes are only possible to a certain extent: despite the fact that political parties have new tools available to them to communicate and organise their supporters, the political system defines the environment and limits within which they operate. Political parties can only evolve to a limited extent in an unchanging political system. The renewal of the political and democratic process has to include both the evolution of the existing political structures and finding innovative new ways in which to enhance political communication and mobilisation.
Percepciones juveniles de ciudadanía. El caso de Yucatán
Authors: Baños Ramírez Othón
Published: June 2015

Este trabajo constituye un acercamiento a la forma en que los jóvenes mexicanos perciben las nociones políticas que orientan su participación ciudadana. La conversación con los entrevistados revela que algunos valores como libertad, igualdad y solidaridad, los cuales están relacionados con la democracia, son visualizados como propios del sistema político de nuestro país. Sin embargo, estos jóvenes perciben al ciudadano y a la ciudadanía poco ligados con dichos valores o con las decisiones tomadas por la clase política. En consecuencia, mantienen la idea de que la obligación fundamental del ciudadano es participar en los procesos electorales. Otro horizonte de lucha política rara vez es contemplado.
El imaginario de la seguridad en la frontera sur de México a principios del siglo XXI
Authors: Rioja Leonardo
Published: June 2015

El presente artículo analiza el imaginario social de la seguridad basado en la Doctrina de Seguridad Nacional respecto a las representaciones de la política de seguridad del Estado mexicano en la frontera sur de México a principios del siglo xxi. En primer lugar, se realiza una disertación acerca de la Doctrina de Seguridad Nacional como una representación del imaginario político de la seguridad en el plano teórico. Después se lleva a cabo un análisis de algunas representaciones sobre la política de cooperación internacional en materia de seguridad sobre las acciones de política exterior de México para contener las amenazas provenientes del exterior en la frontera sur del país. Y por último, se destaca la efectividad de la construcción del imaginario político de la seguridad fronteriza de México y el imaginario político de la Doctrina de Seguridad Nacional adoptada por nuestro país, para representar la vulnerabilidad de la frontera sur.
Being, Flow and Knowledge in Māori Arts Education: Assessing Indigenous Creativity
Authors: Hindle Rawiri , Hynds Anne S. , Phillips Hazel , Rameka Lesley
Published: June 2015

This article reflects on issues of Indigenous creativity in Māori arts education, along with what we see as problematic tensions of the assessment of intangible elements. Our writing is motivated by a desire to start a global dialogue on Indigenous/Māori epistemologies, pedagogies and ontologies, and the contradictions and tensions that threaten these through global assessment drives within schools. We argue that current student assessment regimes are being increasingly influenced by international neoliberal agendas, which focus on universal, measurable outcomes. By critically exploring the assessment of creativity in the arts from a Māori perspective, we reflect on several contradictions and tensions in current assessment drives within schools. In particular, the intangible dimensions of being and flow and their connection to creativity are examined, and we conclude with recommendations for further work in this area.
Usage probability and subject–object asymmetries in Korean case ellipsis: Experiments with subject case ellipsis
Authors: LEE HANJUNG
Published: June 2015

Case ellipsis for subjects and objects in Korean exhibits several clear asymmetries that have not received a unified explanation. This paper provides a new, probability-based analysis of variable case marking that can account for three types of subject–object asymmetries noted in the literature in terms of asymmetries in the usage probability of the properties of argument NPs in their syntactic or discourse context. This account captures the key generalizations underlying the asymmetries that case ellipsis forwh-word subjects, subjects in OSV sentences and non-specific subjects is unacceptable, whereas case ellipsis for objects with similar properties is acceptable; it also explains why sentences with a subject NP not marked for case that have been predicted to be syntactically ill-formed by previous syntactic accounts are judged acceptable when the subject represents expected, predictable information in context. These results provide strong support for the view that native speakers’ knowledge of grammar includes not only some degree of knowledge of probabilistic information but also access to fine-grained predictability and probabilities.
Personalised nutrition: the role of new dietary assessment methods
Authors: Forster Hannah , Walsh Marianne C. , Gibney Michael J. , Brennan Lorraine , Gibney Eileen R.
Published: June 2015

Food records or diaries, dietary recalls and FFQ are methods traditionally used to measure dietary intake; however, advancing technologies and growing awareness in personalised health have heightened interest in the application of new technologies to assess dietary intake. Dietary intake data can be used in epidemiology, dietary interventions and in the delivery of personalised nutrition advice. Compared with traditional dietary assessment methods, new technologies have many advantages, including their ability to automatically process data and provide personalised dietary feedback advice. This review examines the new technologies presently under development for the assessment of dietary intakes, and their utilisation and efficacy for personalising dietary advice. New technology-based methods of dietary assessment can broadly be categorised into three key areas: online (web-based) methods, mobile methods and sensor technologies. Several studies have demonstrated that utilising new technologies to provide tailored advice can result in positive dietary changes and have a significant impact on selected nutrient and food group intakes. However, comparison across studies indicates that the magnitude of change is variable and may be influenced by several factors, including the frequency and type of feedback provided. Future work should establish the most effective combinations of these factors in facilitating dietary changes across different population groups.
LIFE AND DEATH
Authors: Binmore Ken
Published: June 2015

What is the value of a life? How should we regard death? This paper uses the methods of economics to defend some of the views of Epicurus against the utilitarian approach that welfare economics takes for granted.