bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Charles De Koninck et la pensée spéculative contemporaine (Meillassoux, Grant, Garcia, Bergson)
Authors: Fradet Pierre-Alexandre
Published: April 2017

L’ambition de cet article est de tirer au clair le versant spéculatif de l’oeuvre de Charles De Koninck en la mettant en dialogue avec la pensée spéculative contemporaine. Pour ce faire, nous nous efforçons d’abord de synthétiser la manière dont Quentin Meillassoux et Iain Hamilton Grant (dont la relecture de Schelling n’est pas sans recouper certaines idées vitalistes de Bergson) réhabilitent la connaissance du réel lui-même, après quoi nous relevons différents points d’accord ou de désaccord entre ces auteurs et Charles De Koninck. Parmi les thèmes abordés en l’occurrence et qui recoupent tous la question du réel, figurent la différence entre l’en-soi et le pour-nous, le finalisme, l’indéterminisme et les alternatives que propose l’ontologie aux concepts de devenir et de substance (Tristan Garcia).
Underwater ROV as Inspection and Development Platform
Authors: Vukšić Marko , Josipović Slaven , Čorić Ante , Kraljević Ante
Published: April 2017

The successful business technical cooperation between the University of Split and the company PLOVPUT LLC yields a very usable, lightweight, maneuverable underwater Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). The ROV is capable of diving down to 150 m depth. It can carry different remote controlled sensors and tools, and resolve challenging tasks. Primarily ROV’s usage is to inspect underwater electrical installation. It is equipped with HD camera and LED lights. An umbilical cable is used to transfer data and electrical power from the surface to the underwater vehicle. The position control was realized using inexpensive PS2 joystick console. ROV’s development was mostly carried out by the students of the University of Split (UNIST). The mechanical and electrical subsystems were built and tested at UNIST laboratories. In this paper, ROV mechanical and electrical systems are outlined and basic subsystems are presented.
Information Model for Global Seaborne Shipping from 2010 to 2020
Authors: Vidučić Vinko , Bukljaš Skočibušić Mihaela , Žanić Mikuličić Jelena
Published: April 2017

The research has focused on the development of the global seaborne shipping market from 2010 to 2020. The analysis and assessment of the relevant variables of the model and the resulting growth rates have been aimed at a scientific formulation of the research findings and have been used to describe the most important theoretical principles governing the global seaborne shipping market over the defined period of time. The basic hypothesis has been confirmed through the direct growth rates of the selected model variables. In this way a scientific confirmation of the hypothesis has been provided: "On the basis of scientific insights into the global seaborne shipping market, it is possible to suggest a new information model for the development of the global seaborne shipping market for the period 2010 – 2020.
Axon tension regulates fasciculation/defasciculation through the control of axon shaft zippering
Authors: Šmít Daniel , Fouquet Coralie , Pincet Frédéric , Zapotocky Martin , Trembleau Alain
Published: April 2017

While axon fasciculation plays a key role in the development of neural networks, very little is known about its dynamics and the underlying biophysical mechanisms. In a model system composed of neurons grown ex vivo from explants of embryonic mouse olfactory epithelia, we observed that axons dynamically interact with each other through their shafts, leading to zippering and unzippering behavior that regulates their fasciculation. Taking advantage of this new preparation suitable for studying such interactions, we carried out a detailed biophysical analysis of zippering, occurring either spontaneously or induced by micromanipulations and pharmacological treatments. We show that zippering arises from the competition of axon-axon adhesion and mechanical tension in the axons, and provide the first quantification of the force of axon-axon adhesion. Furthermore, we introduce a biophysical model of the zippering dynamics, and we quantitatively relate the individual zipper properties to global characteristics of the developing axon network. Our study uncovers a new role of mechanical tension in neural development: the regulation of axon fasciculation.
Arabidopsis 14-3-3 epsilon members contribute to polarity of PIN auxin carrier and auxin transport-related development
Authors: Keicher Jutta , Jaspert Nina , Weckermann Katrin , Möller Claudia , Throm Christian , Kintzi Aaron , Oecking Claudia
Published: April 2017

Eukaryotic 14-3-3 proteins have been implicated in the regulation of diverse biological processes by phosphorylation-dependent protein-protein interactions. The Arabidopsis genome encodes two groups of 14-3-3s, one of which – epsilon – is thought to fulfill conserved cellular functions. Here, we assessed the in vivo role of the ancestral 14-3-3 epsilon group members. Their simultaneous and conditional repression by RNA interference and artificial microRNA in seedlings led to altered distribution patterns of the phytohormone auxin and associated auxin transport-related phenotypes, such as agravitropic growth. Moreover, 14-3-3 epsilon members were required for pronounced polar distribution of PIN-FORMED auxin efflux carriers within the plasma membrane. Defects in defined post-Golgi trafficking processes proved causal for this phenotype and might be due to lack of direct 14-3-3 interactions with factors crucial for membrane trafficking. Taken together, our data demonstrate a fundamental role for the ancient 14-3-3 epsilon group members in regulating PIN polarity and plant development.
Synaptic input sequence discrimination on behavioral timescales mediated by reaction-diffusion chemistry in dendrites
Authors: Bhalla Upinder Singh
Published: April 2017

Sequences of events are ubiquitous in sensory, motor, and cognitive function. Key computational operations, including pattern recognition, event prediction, and plasticity, involve neural discrimination of spatio-temporal sequences. Here, we show that synaptically-driven reaction-diffusion pathways on dendrites can perform sequence discrimination on behaviorally relevant time-scales. We used abstract signaling models to show that selectivity arises when inputs at successive locations are aligned with, and amplified by, propagating chemical waves triggered by previous inputs. We incorporated biological detail using sequential synaptic input onto spines in morphologically, electrically, and chemically detailed pyramidal neuronal models based on rat data. Again, sequences were recognized, and local channel modulation downstream of putative sequence-triggered signaling could elicit changes in neuronal firing. We predict that dendritic sequence-recognition zones occupy 5 to 30 microns and recognize time-intervals of 0.2 to 5 s. We suggest that this mechanism provides highly parallel and selective neural computation in a functionally important time range.
Inferior Mesenteric Artery Lymph Node Metastasis Is an Independent Prognostic Factor for Stage III Sigmoid Colon and Rectal Cancer
Authors: Inoue Akira , Hata Taishi , Takahashi Hidekazu , Haraguchi Naotsugu , Nishimura Junichi , Mizushima Tsunekazu , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki
Published: April 2017

It is unclear whether the number or distribution of lymph node metastases can provide a more accurate prognosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) lymph node metastasis (LNM) in sigmoid colon and rectal cancer. We included 188 patients who underwent curative resection for stage III sigmoid colon and rectal cancer between January 2001 and December 2012. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence of IMA-LNM (LNM-positive versus LNM-negative group). Clinicopathologic characteristics, 3-year recurrence-free survival and 5-year overall survival rates, and recurrence patterns were compared between the 2 groups. Of 188 patients, 9 patients (4.79%) were in the LNM-positive group. After curative resection, 3-year recurrence-free survival and 5-year overall survival rates were significantly lower in the LNM-positive group compared to the LNM-negative group (44.44% versus 69.98%, P = 0.016 for 3-year recurrence-free survival and 48.61% versus 81.73%, P = 0.018 for 5-year overall survival). Multivariate analysis revealed that the presence of IMA-LNM (P = 0.04), not the number of LNMs (P = 0.153), was an independent prognostic factor for recurrence-free survival. The para-aortic LNM rate was significantly higher in the LNM-positive group (P = 0.0078). IMA-LNM is an independent predictor of survival for stage III sigmoid colon and rectal cancer patients. Evaluation of IMA-LNM enables accurate estimation of patient prognosis and enhances appropriate postoperative therapy.
Dynamic topography and eustasy controlled the paleogeographic evolution of northern Africa since the mid‐Cretaceous
Authors: Barnett‐Moore N. , Hassan R. , Müller R. D. , Williams S. E. , Flament N.
Published: April 2017

Northern Africa underwent widespread inundation during the Late Cretaceous. Changes in eustasy do not explain the absence of this inundation across the remainder of Africa, and the timing and location of documented tectonic deformation do not explain the large‐scale paleogeographic evolution. We investigate the combined effects of vertical surface displacements predicted by a series of mantle flow models and eustasy on northern African paleoenvironmental change. We compare changes in base level computed as the difference between eustasy and long‐wavelength dynamic topography arising from sources of buoyancy deeper than 350 km to the evolution of paleoshorelines derived from two interpolated global data sets since the mid‐Cretaceous. We also compare the predicted mantle temperature field of these mantle flow models at present‐day to several seismic tomography models. This approach reveals that dynamic subsidence, related to Africa's northward motion away from the buoyant regions overlying the African large low shear velocity province, amplified sea level rise, resulting in maximum inundation of northern Africa during the Cenomanian and Turonian. By the Cenozoic, decreased magnitudes of dynamic subsidence, reflecting the reduced drawdown effects of slab material beneath northern Africa associated with the impact of the Africa‐Eurasia collision, combined with a comparatively pronounced progressive sea level fall resulted in ongoing region‐wide regression along coastal regions. The temporal match between our preferred model and the paleoshoreline data sets suggests that the paleogeographic evolution of this region since the Late Cretaceous has mainly been influenced by the interplay between eustasy and long‐wavelength dynamic topography arising from large‐scale, subduction‐driven, lower mantle convection.
Changes in floodplain inundation under nonstationary hydrology for an adjustable, alluvial river channel
Authors: Call B. C. , Belmont P. , Schmidt J. C. , Wilcock P. R.
Published: April 2017

Predicting the frequency and aerial extent of flooding in river valleys is essential for infrastructure design, environmental management, and risk assessment. Conventional flood prediction relies on assumptions of stationary flood distributions and static channel geometries. However, nonstationary flow regimes are increasingly observed and changes in flow and/or sediment supply are known to alter the geometry and flood conveyance of alluvial channels. Systematic changes in flows and/or channel geometry may amplify or attenuate the frequency and/or extent of flood inundation in unexpected ways. We present a stochastic, reduced complexity model to investigate such dynamics. The model routes a series of annual peak discharges through a simplified reach‐averaged channel‐floodplain cross section. Channel width, depth, and slope are permitted to adjust annually by a user‐specified fraction toward equilibrium geometries predicted based on each year's peak discharge and sediment supply. Modeled channel adjustments are compared with empirical observations for two rivers in Minnesota, USA that have experienced multiple large floods over the past 6 years. The model is then run using six hypothetical scenarios simulating nonstationary flow regimes with temporal adjustments in the mean and/or variance of the governing peak‐flow distributions. Each scenario is run repeatedly while varying parameters that control the amount of fractional adjustment that channel geometries can make annually. Results indicate that the intra‐annual mean horizontal width of floodplain inundation primarily depends on the governing peak‐flow distribution's coefficient of variation, but the intra‐annual frequency of floodplain inundation (i.e., the fraction of modeled years with inundation) primarily depends on the amount of channel adjustment permitted annually.
Study of field‐aligned current (FAC), interplanetary electric field component (Ey), interplanetary magnetic field component (Bz), and northward (x) and eastward (y) components of geomagnetic field during supersubstorm
Authors: Adhikari Binod , Dahal Subodh , Chapagain Narayan P.
Published: April 2017

A dominant process by which energy and momentum are transported from the magnetosphere to the ionosphere is known as field‐aligned current (FAC). It is enhanced during magnetic reconnection and explosive energy release at a substorm. In this paper, we studied FAC, interplanetary electric field component (Ey), interplanetary magnetic field component (Bz), and northward (x) and eastward (y) components of geomagnetic field during three events of supersubstorm occurred on 24 November 2001, 21 January 2005, and 24 August 2005. Large‐scale FAC, supposed to be produced during supersubstorm (SSS), has potentiality to cause blackout on Earth. We examined temporal variations of the x and y components of high‐latitude geomagnetic field during SSS, which is attributed to the FACs. We shall report the characteristics of high‐latitude northward and eastward components of geomagnetic field variation during the growth phase of SSS by the implementation of discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and cross‐correlation analysis. Among three examples of SSS events, the highest peak value of FAC was estimated to be ~19 μAm−2. This is shore up with the prediction made by Parks (1991) and Stasiewicz et al. (1998) that the FACs may vary from a few tens to several hundred μAm−2. Although this peak value of FACs for SSS event is much higher than the average FACs associated with regular substorms or magnetic storms, it is expedient and can be expect for SSS events which might be due to very high density solar wind plasma parcels (PPs) triggering the SSS events. In all events, during growth phase, the FAC increases to extremely high level and the geomagnetic northward component decreases to extremely low level. This represents a strong positive correlation between FAC and geomagnetic northward component. The DWT analysis accounts that the highest amplitude of the wavelet coefficients indicates singularities present in FAC during SSS event. But the amplitude of squared wavelet coefficient is found to be different from each other, which might be due to the solar wind PPs of different density triggering the SSS events. The cross‐correlation analysis suggests that the perturbation on geomagnetic northward component at high latitude during SSS strongly correlates with the fluctuation pattern of FAC density. Hence, the FAC is the primary sources for the eastward‐westward magnetic field perturbations at high latitude.
Impact of sea surface temperature on stratiform cloud formation over the North Sea
Authors: Fallmann Joachim , Lewis Huw , Castillo Juan M. , Arnold Alex , Ramsdale Steven
Published: April 2017

This study presents a numerical simulation assessing the effect of dynamical ocean–atmosphere coupling on the structure of the marine atmospheric boundary layer over the southern North Sea. Using a high‐resolution regional coupled ocean‐atmosphere prediction system, with a coupling frequency of 1 h, a diurnal variation of sea surface temperature simulated by the ocean model is applied to the atmosphere component. This results in a surface warming in the coupled compared to an atmosphere‐only run. Shallow convection initiated by heating of the lower atmosphere by a relatively warmer ocean surface leads local formation of low level clouds between 1300 h and 1700 h in the coupled run. The impact of these clouds in reflecting incoming solar radiation is demonstrated through a relative cooling of the sea surface temperature in the coupled simulation compared to an ocean‐only run forced by an atmosphere‐only run without representation of ocean‐atmosphere interactions.
Linear permeability evolution of expanding conduits due to feedback between flow and fast phase change
Authors: Wang Lichun , Cardenas M. Bayani
Published: April 2017

Conduits are ubiquitous and critical pathways for many fluids relevant for geophysical processes such as magma, water, and gases. Predicting flow through conduits is challenging when the conduit geometry coevolves with the flow. We theoretically show that the permeability (k) of a conduit whose walls are eroding due to fast phase change increases linearly with time because of a self‐reinforcing mechanism. This simple result is surprising given complex feedbacks between flow, transport, and phase change. The theory is congruent with previous experimental observations of fracture dissolution in calcite. Supporting computational fracture dissolution experiments showed that k only slightly increases until the dissolution front reaches the narrowest conduit constriction, after which the linear evolution of k manifests. The theory holds across multiple scales and a broad range of Peclet and Damkohler numbers and thus advances the prediction of dynamic mass fluxes through expanding conduits in various geologic and environmental settings.
Tearing of the mantle lithosphere along the intermediate‐depth seismicity zone beneath the Gibraltar Arc: The onset of lithospheric delamination
Authors: Heit Benjamin , Mancilla Flor de Lis , Yuan Xiaohui , Morales Jose , Stich Daniel , Martín Rosa , Molina‐Aguilera Antonio
Published: April 2017

The intermediate‐depth seismicity (IDS) beneath the Gibraltar Arc is enigmatic. So far, there is no general consensus on its relationship with the ongoing tectonic processes. We analyzed S wave receiver functions (SRFs) with data recorded by a dense N‐S seismic profile deployed across the Sierra Nevada in southern Spain. SRF piercing points at depths of the lithosphere‐asthenosphere boundary (LAB) sample an area of the IDS zone, providing an ideal opportunity to study the lithospheric structure at the IDS zone. We observe an abrupt change in the LAB depth along a profile from north to south across the northern branch of the IDS. The LAB depth changes from 90 to 100 km north of the IDS to ~130 km south of it. We propose that the IDS marks a tear in the Iberian mantle lithosphere along its entire length, implying an ongoing lithospheric delamination process that produces the seismicity at its onset.
Intensified dust storm activity and Valley fever infection in the southwestern United States
Authors: Tong Daniel Q. , Wang Julian X. L. , Gill Thomas E. , Lei Hang , Wang Binyu
Published: April 2017

Climate models have consistently projected a drying trend in the southwestern United States, aiding speculation of increasing dust storms in this region. Long‐term climatology is essential to documenting the dust trend and its response to climate variability. We have reconstructed long‐term dust climatology in the western United States, based on a comprehensive dust identification method and continuous aerosol observations from the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) network. We report here direct evidence of rapid intensification of dust storm activity over American deserts in the past decades (1988–2011), in contrast to reported decreasing trends in Asia and Africa. The frequency of windblown dust storms has increased 240% from 1990s to 2000s. This dust trend is associated with large‐scale variations of sea surface temperature in the Pacific Ocean, with the strongest correlation with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation. We further investigate the relationship between dust and Valley fever, a fast‐rising infectious disease caused by inhaling soil‐dwelling fungus (Coccidioides immitis and C. posadasii) in the southwestern United States. The frequency of dust storms is found to be correlated with Valley fever incidences, with a coefficient (r) comparable to or stronger than that with other factors believed to control the disease in two endemic centers (Maricopa and Pima County, Arizona).
Numerical and Experimental Investigations on the Growth of the Intermetallic Mg2Si Phase in Mg Infiltrated Si‐Foams
Authors: Wang Fei , Matz Alexander M. , Tschukin Oleg , Heimann Johann , Mocker Bettina S. , Nestler Britta , Jost Norbert
Published: April 2017

The present work explores the growing behavior of the intermetallic layer in the Mg‐Si system. Following achievements have been obtained in our investigation: (i) A complete wetting concept is proposed for the lateral spreading of the intermetallic layer. (ii) In contrast to the stoichiometric property for the intermetallic phase in the phase diagram, the authors show that concentration gradients are able to be established in the kinetic process. (iii) Contrary to the reported growth behavior, d ∝ t0.25–0.5 in other intermetallics, the authors find a transition from d ∝  to d ∝ t with an increase of the temperature, where d is the thickness of the intermetallic layer and t is the time.
Two‐Dimensional Semiconductors: From Materials Preparation to Electronic Applications
Authors: Liu Bilu , Abbas Ahmad , Zhou Chongwu
Published: April 2017

Two‐dimensional (2D) materials are layered materials featuring strong in‐plane covalent bonding and weak intra‐plane bonding, which allow them to be easily cleaved into atomically thin materials, and be stable in such thin forms. Initiated by graphene, there has been increasing research interest in the past few years in studying growth, electronic and optoelectronic applications, and many other applications of 2D materials. In this review, recent achievements in the controlled preparation of monolayer and few‐layer 2D semiconductors are summarized, with an emphasis on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs). General understanding for TMDC growth as well as approaches to grow large single crystalline TMDCs and wafer‐scale manufacturing of continuous TMDC films are discussed. In the second part, the focus is on applications of 2D semiconductors in electronics, where several key issues—including how to form good electrical contacts between electrodes and 2D semiconductors, charge carrier scattering mechanisms, and short‐channel effects—are discussed in detail. In the last section, the authors' perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the growth and electronic applications of 2D semiconductors is presented.
Control of Vicinal Stereocenters through Nickel‐Catalyzed Alkyl–Alkyl Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Mu Xin , Shibata Yu , Makida Yusuke , Fu Gregory C.
Published: April 2017

Vicinal stereocenters are found in many natural and unnatural compounds. Although metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions of unactivated alkyl electrophiles are emerging as a powerful tool in organic synthesis, there have been virtually no reports of processes that generate, much less control, vicinal stereocenters. In this investigation, we establish that a chiral nickel catalyst can mediate doubly stereoconvergent alkyl–alkyl cross‐coupling, specifically, reactions of a racemic pyrrolidine‐derived nucleophile with cyclic alkyl halides (as mixtures of stereoisomers) to produce vicinal stereocenters with very good stereoselectivity.
Application of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane to the stabilization and performance enhancement of poly(4‐methyl‐2‐pentyne) nanocomposite membranes for natural gas conditioning
Authors: Khosravi Arash , Vatani Ali , Mohammadi Toraj
Published: April 2017

The application of octatrimethylsiloxy polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanoparticles was investigated in the fabrication of novel reverse‐selective poly(4‐methyl‐2‐pentyne) (PMP) nanocomposite membranes for the separation of heavier hydrocarbons from methane. Generally, PMP and PMP–fumed silica (FS) nanocomposite membranes suffer severe physical aging with approximately 40% permeation flux reduction over 120 days. A straightforward strategy was introduced to suppress the physical aging of PMP and also to improve the thermal stability without compromising the selectivities and permeabilities through the incorporation of a functionalized POSS–FS binary filler system. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy proved productive interactions between the fillers and polymer, with a fair compatibility between them. Thermogravimetric analysis confirmed that the thermal stability of the neat PMP was enhanced by the incorporation of the fillers into the nanocomposites. The addition of POSS and FS led to improved operational performance, such as in the permeability and selectivity, over the neat PMP. The permeation stabilities of the PMP–POSS and PMP–FS–POSS nanocomposite membranes were clearly improved over a long time (120 days). The permeation data indicated that the PMP–3 wt % POSS–20 wt % FS nanocomposite membrane is promising for C3H8/N2 and C3H8/CH4 separation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45158.
Enantioselective Organocatalytic Synthesis of a Secoyohimbane‐Inspired Compound Collection with Neuritogenic Activity
Authors: Förster Tim , López‐Tosco Sara , Ziegler Slava , Antonchick Andrey P. , Waldmann Herbert
Published: April 2017

Natural products provide evolutionary validated core structures to inspire the synthesis of new compound collections endowed with neurite growth‐promoting activity. Rhynchophylline is the major component of Uncaria species, and has been used to treat neurological diseases in Chinese traditional medicine. Based on the structure of this spirocyclic secoyohimbane alkaloid, we developed a highly enantioselective and efficient organocatalyzed synthesis method to provide a tetracyclic secoyohimbane scaffold incorporating a quaternary and three tertiary stereogenic centers, in a one‐pot multistep reaction sequence. A compound collection of derived secoyohimbanes was synthesized and expanded by decorating the periphery of the basic scaffold with additional substituents to increase the diversity. Evaluation of the different subcollections of secoyohimbanes for modulation of neurite outgrowth in the SH‐SY5Y human cell line led to the discovery of new compounds that promote neurite outgrowth.
Sequence‐Specific Covalent Capture Coupled with High‐Contrast Nanopore Detection of a Disease‐Derived Nucleic Acid Sequence
Authors: Nejad Maryam Imani , Shi Ruicheng , Zhang Xinyue , Gu Li‐Qun , Gates Kent S.
Published: April 2017

Hybridization‐based methods for the detection of nucleic acid sequences are important in research and medicine. Short probes provide sequence specificity, but do not always provide a durable signal. Sequence‐specific covalent crosslink formation can anchor probes to target DNA and might also provide an additional layer of target selectivity. Here, we developed a new crosslinking reaction for the covalent capture of specific nucleic acid sequences. This process involved reaction of an abasic (Ap) site in a probe strand with an adenine residue in the target strand and was used for the detection of a disease‐relevant T→A mutation at position 1799 of the human BRAF kinase gene sequence. Ap‐containing probes were easily prepared and displayed excellent specificity for the mutant sequence under isothermal assay conditions. It was further shown that nanopore technology provides a high contrast—in essence, digital—signal that enables sensitive, single‐molecule sensing of the cross‐linked duplexes.
Polymer‐Supported Palladium(II) Carbene Complexes: Catalytic Activity, Recyclability, and Selectivity in C−H Acetoxylation of Arenes
Authors: Majeed Maitham H. , Shayesteh Payam , Wallenberg L. Reine , Persson Axel R. , Johansson Niclas , Ye Lei , Schnadt Joachim , Wendt Ola F.
Published: April 2017

Heterogeneous catalysts for selective oxidation of C−H bonds were synthesized by co‐polymerization of new N‐heterocyclic carbene‐palladium(II) (NHC‐PdII) monomers with divinylbenzene. The polymer‐supported NHC‐PdII‐catalysed undirected C−H acetoxylation of simple and methylated arenes as well as polyarenes, with similar or superior efficiency compared to their homogeneous analogues. In particular, the regioselectivity has been improved in the acetoxylation of biphenyl and naphthalene compared to the best homogeneous catalysts. The new polymer‐supported catalysts maintain the original oxidation state of PdII after repeated catalytic reactions, and exhibit no significant leaching of palladium. In addition, the new catalysts have been successfully recovered and reused without loss of activity over several cycles of reactions.
Enantioselective synthesis of (S)‐naproxen using immobilized lipase on chitosan beads
Authors: Gilani Saeedeh L. , Najafpour Ghasem D. , Heydarzadeh Hamid D. , Moghadamnia Aliakbar
Published: April 2017

S‐naproxen by enantioselective hydrolysis of racemic naproxen methyl ester was produced using immobilized lipase. The lipase enzyme was immobilized on chitosan beads, activated chitosan beads by glutaraldehyde, and Amberlite XAD7. In order to find an appropriate support for the hydrolysis reaction of racemic naproxen methyl ester, the conversion and enantioselectivity for all carriers were compared. In addition, effects of the volumetric ratio of two phases in different organic solvents, addition of cosolvent and surfactant, optimum pH and temperature, reusability, and inhibitory effect of methanol were investigated. The optimum volumetric ratio of two phases was defined as 3:2 of aqueous phase to organic phase. Various water miscible and water immiscible solvents were examined. Finally, isooctane was chosen as an organic solvent, while 2‐ethoxyethanol was added as a cosolvent in the organic phase of the reaction mixture. The optimum reaction conditions were determined to be 35 °C, pH 7, and 24 h. Addition of Tween‐80 in the organic phase increased the accessibility of immobilized enzyme to the reactant. The optimum organic phase compositions using a volumetric ratio of 2‐ethoxyethanol, isooctane and Tween‐80 were 3:7 and 0.1% (v/v/v), respectively. The best conversion and enantioselectivity of immobilized enzyme using chitosan beads activated by glutaraldehyde were 0.45 and 185, respectively.
Synthesis, Characterization and Electrochemical Properties of 4,5‐Diazafluoren‐9‐yl or Fluoren‐9‐yl Terminated Homobimetallic Ruthenium and Osmium Allenylidene, Alkynyl‐Allenylidene Complexes
Authors: Huang Jinbo , Zhou Xiaoxi , Zhao Qianyi , Li Shunhua , Xia Haiping
Published: April 2017

A variety of rigid ruthenium and osmium allenylidene [M1Cl(PΛP)2 = C = C(4,5‐diazafluoren‐9‐yl){M2(CHC(PPh3)CHC(PPh3)Cl2(PPh3)2}][PF6]3 (4a: M1=Os, M2=Os, PΛP=dppm; 4b: M1=Os, M2=Ru, PΛP=dppm; 4c: M1=Ru, M2=Os, PΛP=dppe; 4d: M1=Ru, M2=Ru, PΛP=dppe), ruthenium alkynyl‐allenylidene complexes trans‐[(dppe)2Ru(C≡CPh)Ru = C = C(R)][PF6] (6a: R = fluoren‐9‐yl; 6b: R = 4,5‐diazafluoren‐9‐yl), trans‐{(dppe)2[=C = C(fluoren‐9‐yl)]Ru(C ≡ C‐R‐C ≡ C)Ru[(=C = C(fluoren‐9‐yl)(dppe)2]} [PF6]2 (8a, R = 1,4‐phenylene; 8b, R = 1,3‐phenylene) terminated by 4,5‐diazafluoren‐9‐yl and fluoren‐9‐yl group have been prepared. These allenylidene complexes were derived from 9‐ethynyl‐9‐fluorenol and 9‐hydroxy‐9‐ethynyl‐4,5‐diazafluorene in the presence of cis‐OsCl2(dppm)2 and cis‐RuCl2(dppe)2. The respective products have been fully characterized by 1H, 13C, 31P NMR spectrometry, IR spectrometry, elemental analysis, and UV/Vis spectrophotometry. Moreover, electrochemical studies reveal that the dinuclear complexes display a quasi‐reversible redox behavior and a moderate electronic communication between the two metal centers in 8a. UV–vis studies show a remarkable absorption in the region (λmax = 300‐700 nm) for these complexes.
Synovial sarcoma metastatic to the parotid gland: A possible pitfall in salivary gland fine needle aspiration cytology. Report of a case with immunocytochemical and fluorescence in situ hybridization findings
Authors: Fulciniti Franco , Barizzi Jessica , Martin Vittoria , Tarallo Vittorio , Ermanni Stefano
Published: April 2017

We report one case of metastatic synovial sarcoma (SS) to the parotid gland in a 93‐year‐old male. The patient had undergone upper left pulmonary lobectomy with mediastinal lymphadenectomy for SS of the lung 5 years before. The cytopathologic presentation and the immunocytochemical findings on the FNA sample were suggestive of a spindle cell myoepithelioma, while a SYT rearrangement was identified by a FISH performed on a cytological smear of the lesion. The diagnosis was further confirmed also by positive immunocytochemical expression of TLE1 on a section from the obtained cell block. The cytologic and immunophenotypic findings are shortly discussed in view of the reported immunophenotypic inconsistency of SS and of its differential diagnosis with spindle cell myoepithelioma of the salivary glands.The importance of the recently described TLE1 staining and its close correlation to SYT rearrangement is briefly discussed.
Endometrial cells on Pap tests: ideal reporting is more complex than just finding the right age
Authors: Fischer Gabor , Haddad Maha , Cormier Karen
Published: April 2017

Background

The age for reporting normal endometrial cells (EMCs) on Pap tests was changed to ≥ 45 years in the latest Bethesda update (2014). This recommendation is solely based on age with no consensus on optimal reporting guidelines.

Methods

Pap tests with EMCs for women ≥40 years were retrieved from our Laboratory Information System (LIS). Patient age, last menstrual period (LMP) and available follow‐up histology were recorded. Follow‐up diagnoses were categorized as: no significant pathology, benign, hyperplasia ± atypia, or malignant. The Fisher's exact test was used to assess the association between categorical variables, p < .05 (two‐sided test) was considered significant.

Results

Of the 352 cases with EMCs, 155 had surgical follow‐up. They showed no malignancy in the 89 women between 40‐49 years, compared with five malignancies in the 66 women 50+ years (p = .016). The number of cases with significant pathology (hyperplasia and malignant) was 4 (40‐49 years) vs. 11 (50+ years) (p = 0.029). The LMP was inconsistently provided (57%) and women identified as postmenopausal on requisition comprised all the malignancies and half the hyperplasias.

Conclusion

Combined effort by pathologists and clinicians necessitates determining the best standardized clinicopathologic guidelines to report EMCs and appropriate follow‐up. Increasing the required age to ≥50 years would provide more optimal patient management; however, there are other considerations beyond age. Reporting EMCs in postmenopausal women is a reasonable alternative requiring consistent and accurate recording of LMP. Improving provided information for pathologists, determining reporting requirements for EMCs and standardizing clinical follow‐up should be a multidisciplinary effort. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:587–591. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The occhiolino (occ) mutant Zebrafish, a model for development of the optical function in the biological lens
Authors: Aose Masamoto , Linbo Tor H. , Lawrence Owen , Senoo Tadashi , Raible David W. , Clark John I.
Published: April 2017

Background: Zebrafish visual function depends on quality optics. An F3 screen for developmental mutations in the Zebrafish nervous system was conducted in wild‐type (wt) AB Zebrafish exposed to 3 mM of N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU). Results: Mutant offspring, identified in an F3 screen, were characterized by a small pupil, resulting from retinal hypertrophy or hyperplasia and a small lens. Deficits in visual function made feeding difficult after hatching at approximately 5–6 days postfertilization (dpf). Special feeding conditions were necessary for survival of the occhiolino (occ) mutants after 6 dpf. Optokinetic response (OKR) tests measured defects in visual function in the occ mutant, although electroretinograms (ERGs) were normal in the mutant and wt. Consistent with the ERGs, histology found normal retinal structure in the occ mutant and wt Zebrafish. However, lens development was abnormal. Multiphoton imaging of the developmental stages of live embryos confirmed the formation of a secondary mass of lens cells in the developing eye of the mutant Zebrafish at 3–4 dpf, and laminin immunohistochemistry indicated the lens capsule was thin and disorganized in the mutant Zebrafish. Conclusions: The occ Zebrafish is a novel disease model for visual defects associated with abnormal lens development. Developmental Dynamics 246:915–924, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A structural approach for understanding multispecies coexistence
Authors: Saavedra Serguei , Rohr Rudolf P. , Bascompte Jordi , Godoy Oscar , Kraft Nathan J. B. , Levine Jonathan M.
Published: April 2017

Although observations of species‐rich communities have long served as a primary motivation for research on the coexistence of competitors, the majority of our empirical and theoretical understanding comes from two‐species systems. How much of the coexistence observed in species‐rich communities results from indirect effects among competitors that only emerge in diverse systems remains poorly understood. Resolving this issue requires simple, scalable, and intuitive metrics for quantifying the conditions for coexistence in multispecies systems, and how these conditions differ from those expected based solely on pairwise interactions. To achieve these aims, we develop a structural approach for studying the set of parameter values compatible withn‐species coexistence given the geometric constraints imposed by the matrix of competition coefficients. We derive novel mathematical metrics analogous to stabilizing niche differences and fitness differences that measure the range of conditions compatible with multispecies coexistence, incorporating the effects of indirect interactions emerging in diverse systems. We show how our measures can be used to quantify the extent to which the conditions for coexistence in multispecies systems differ from those that allow pairwise coexistence, and apply the method to a field system of annual plants. We conclude by presenting new challenges and empirical opportunities emerging from our structural metrics of multispecies coexistence.
Low Carbon Governance in Multi‐level Structures: EU–India relations on energy and climate
Authors: Jörgensen Kirsten , Wagner Christian
Published: April 2017

Since 2000, the European Union (EU), a leader in global climate politics, has been looking for alternative avenues to enforce climate relations with other countries. Employing a multi‐level governance lens, this article focuses on the EU–India bilateral relations on energy and climate. The analysis finds strong opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation on low carbon development, a potential that has not yet been realized. The stimulating and accelerating impact that multi‐level reinforcement could have in the energy and climate relations between the EU and India has not been exploited by either side yet. The various forms of cooperation that include the national government and the states in India offer more room for linkages which might move the Indian/European climate cooperation ahead further. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Photocatalytic Activity of the Molecular Complexes of meso‐Tetraarylporphyrins with Lewis Acids for the Oxidation of Olefins: Significant Effects of Lewis Acids and meso Substituents
Authors: Mojarrad Aida G. , Zakavi Saeed
Published: April 2017

In continuing our studies on the photosensitizing ability of the 2,3‐dichloro‐5,6‐dicyano‐1,4‐benzoquinone (DDQ) molecular complex of meso‐tetraphenylporphyrin, we have studied the photocatalytic activity of tetracyanoethylene (TCNE) molecular complexes of a series of para‐ or ortho‐substituted meso‐tetraarylporphyrins (aryl = phenyl, 2‐methylphenyl, 4‐methylphenyl and 4‐methoxylphenyl) for the aerobic oxidation of olefins and compared the results with those of the DDQ counterparts and the free‐base porphyrins. Significantly higher catalytic performances were observed for the TCNE molecular complexes over a much shorter reaction time. This observation is in accord with the remarkably higher singlet‐oxygen quantum yield of the TCNE complexes (φΔ = 0.57–0.98) relative to that of the DDQ complexes (φΔ = 0.03–0.57) and the free‐base porphyrins (0.32–0.63). Also, the photocatalytic activity of the molecular complexes was found to be greatly influenced by the meso substituents. The involvement of a singlet‐oxygen mechanism in the oxidation reactions was confirmed by using 1,3‐diphenylisobenzofuran and 1,4‐benzoquinone as the singlet‐oxygen quencher and superoxide anion radical scavenger, respectively.
Highly Sensitive Choline Oxidase Enzyme Inhibition Biosensor for Lead Ions Based on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Magar Hend Samy , Ghica Mariana Emilia , Abbas Mohammed Nooredeen , Brett Christopher M. A.
Published: April 2017

The determination of lead ions by inhibition of choline oxidase enzyme has been evaluated for the first time using an amperometric choline biosensor. Choline oxidase (ChOx) was immobilized on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) through cross‐linking with glutaraldehyde. In the presence of ChOx, choline was enzymatically oxidized into betaine at –0.3 V versus Ag/AgCl reference electrode, lead ion inhibition of enzyme activity causing a decrease in the choline oxidation current. The experimental conditions were optimised regarding applied potential, buffer pH, enzyme and substrate concentration and incubation time. Under the best conditions for measurement of the lowest concentrations of lead ions, the ChOx/MWCNT/GCE gave a linear response from 0.1 to 1.0 nM Pb2+ and a detection limit of 0.04 nM. The inhibition of ChOx by lead ions was also studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, but had a narrower linear response range and low sensitivity. The inhibition biosensor exhibited high selectivity towards lead ions and was successfully applied to their determination in tap water samples.
Exploring Online Learning Data Using Fractal Dimensions
Authors: Guo Hongwen
Published: April 2017

Data collected from online learning and tutoring systems for individual students showed strong autocorrelation or dependence because of content connection, knowledge‐based dependency, or persistence of learning behavior. When the response data show little dependence or negative autocorrelations for individual students, it is suspected that students are randomly guessing the answers or that they are inconsistent in learning behavior. In addition, the global and local rates of correct responses may reflect students' proficiency in the learning process. This study shows that the dependence of online data may be characterized by the fractal dimension as a summary statistic locally and globally. The rate of correct responses and the global and local fractal dimensions of individual students' responses may indicate their learning behavior in short and long learning windows. The results may shed light on when individual students are experiencing difficulties in the learning process.
Treating fatty liver disease by modulating mitochondrial pyruvate metabolism
Authors: Colca Jerry R. , McDonald William G. , McCommis Kyle S. , Finck Brian N.
Published: April 2017

Modifying the entry of pyruvate into mitochondria may provide a unique approach to treat metabolic disease. The pharmacology of a new class of insulin sensitizers directed against a newly identified mitochondrial target may treat many aspects of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, including fibrosis. This commentary suggests treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis through a newly identified mechanism consistent with pathophysiology. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:193‐197)
Numerical simulation of agricultural sediment and pesticide runoff: RZWQM and PRZM comparison
Authors: Chen Huajin , Zhang Xuyang , Demars Christopher , Zhang Minghua
Published: April 2017

Agricultural sediment and pesticide runoff is a widespread ecological and human health concern. Numerical simulation models, such as Root Zone Water Quality Model (RZWQM) and Pesticide Root Zone Model (PRZM), have been increasingly used to quantify off‐site agricultural pollutant movement. However, RZWQM has been criticized for its inability to simulate sedimentation processes. The recent incorporation of the sedimentation module of Groundwater Loading Effects of Agricultural Management Systems has enabled RZWQM to simulate sediment and sediment‐associated pesticides. This study compares the sediment and pesticide transport simulation performance of the newly released RZWQM and PRZM using runoff data from 2 alfalfa fields in Davis, California. A composite metric (based on coefficient of determination, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency, index of agreement, and percent bias) was developed and employed to ensure robust, comprehensive assessment of model performance. Results showed that surface water runoff was predicted reasonably well (absolute percent bias <31%) by RZWQM and PRZM after adjusting important hydrologic parameters. Even after calibration, underestimation bias (−89% ≤ PBIAS ≤ −36%) for sediment yield was observed in both models. This might be attributed to PRZM's incorrect distribution of input water and uncertainty in RZWQM's runoff erosivity coefficient. Moreover, the underestimation of sediment might be less if the origin of measured sediment was considered. Chlorpyrifos losses were simulated with reasonable accuracy especially for Field A (absolute PBIAS ≤ 22%), whereas diuron losses were underestimated to a great extent (−98% ≤ PBIAS ≤ −65%) in both models. This could be attributed to the underprediction of herbicide concentration in the top soil due to the limitations of the instantaneous equilibrium sorption model as well as the high runoff potential of herbicide formulated as water‐dispersible granules. RZWQM and PRZM partitioned pesticides into the water and sediment phases similarly. According to model predictions, the majority of pesticide loads were carried via the water phase. On the basis of this study, both RZWQM and PRZM performed well in predicting runoff that carried highly adsorptive pesticides on an event basis, although the more physically based RZWQM is recommended when field‐measured soil hydraulic properties are available.