bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partitioning N2O emissions within the U.S. Corn Belt using an inverse modeling approach
Authors: Chen Zichong , Griffis Timothy J. , Millet Dylan B. , Wood Jeffrey D. , Lee Xuhui , Baker John M. , Xiao Ke , Turner Peter A. , Chen Ming , Zobitz John , Wells Kelley C.
Published: August 2016

Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions within the US Corn Belt have been previously estimated to be 200–900% larger than predictions from emission inventories, implying that one or more source categories in bottom‐up approaches are underestimated. Here we interpret hourly N2O concentrations measured during 2010 and 2011 at a tall tower using a time‐inverted transport model and a scale factor Bayesian inverse method to simultaneously constrain direct and indirect agricultural emissions. The optimization revealed that both agricultural source categories were underestimated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) inventory approach. However, the magnitude of the discrepancies differed substantially, ranging from 42 to 58% and from 200 to 525% for direct and indirect components, respectively. Optimized agricultural N2O budgets for the Corn Belt were 319 ± 184 (total), 188 ± 66 (direct), and 131 ± 118 Gg N yr−1 (indirect) in 2010, versus 471 ± 326, 198 ± 80, and 273 ± 246 Gg N yr−1 in 2011. We attribute the interannual differences to varying moisture conditions, with increased precipitation in 2011 amplifying emissions. We found that indirect emissions represented 41–58% of the total agricultural budget, a considerably larger portion than the 25–30% predicted in bottom‐up inventories, further highlighting the need for improved constraints on this source category. These findings further support the hypothesis that indirect emissions are presently underestimated in bottom‐up inventories. Based on our results, we suggest an indirect emission factor for runoff and leaching ranging from 0.014 to 0.035 for the Corn Belt, which represents an upward adjustment of 1.9–4.6 times relative to the IPCC and is in agreement with recent bottom‐up field studies.
An important missing source of atmospheric carbonyl sulfide: Domestic coal combustion
Authors: Du Qianqian , Zhang Chenglong , Mu Yujing , Cheng Ye , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Chengtang , Song Min , Tian Di , Liu Pengfei , Liu Junfeng , Xue Chaoyang , Ye Can
Published: August 2016

Carbonyl sulfide (COS), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions generated from prevailing domestic coal stoves fueled with raw bituminous coal were studied under alternation cycles of flaming and smoldering combustion. The measurements in the laboratory and the farmer's house indicated that COS and CO emissions mainly occurred under the condition of flame extinguishment after coal loading, whereas SO2 emissions were mainly generated through combustion with flame. The COS emission factors for the domestic stoves in the laboratory and the farmer's house were recorded as 0.57 ± 0.10 g COS kg−1 and 1.43 ± 0.32 g COS kg−1, being approximately a factor of 50 and 125 greater than that generated from coal power plants, respectively. Based on the COS emission factors measured in this study, COS emission from only domestic coal combustion in China would be at least 30.5 ± 5.6 Gg S yr−1 which was 1 magnitude greater than the current COS estimation from the total coal combustion in China.
Changes in surface aerosol extinction trends over China during 1980–2013 inferred from quality‐controlled visibility data
Authors: Li Jing , Li Chengcai , Zhao Chunsheng , Su Tianning
Published: August 2016

Pollution in China has been attracting extensive attention both globally and regionally, especially due to the perceptually worsening “smog” condition in recent years. We use routine visibility measurements from 1980 to 2013 at 272 World Meteorological Organization stations in China to assess the temporal changes in the magnitude and the sign of pollution trends. A strict and comprehensive quality control procedure is enforced by considering several issues not typically addressed in previous studies. Two methods are used to independently estimate the trend and its significance level. Results show that, in general, a strong increase in aerosol extinction coefficient over the majority of China is observed in the 1980s, followed by a moderate decrease in the 1990s, another increase in the 2000s, and a shift to decrease since around 2006 for some regions. Seasonally, winter and fall trends appear to be the strongest, while summer has the lowest trend.
Current sheet flapping motions in the tailward flow of magnetic reconnection
Authors: Wu Mingyu , Lu Quanming , Volwerk Martin , Vörös Zoltán , Ma Xuanye , Wang Shui
Published: August 2016

The feature and origin of current sheet flapping motions are one of most interesting issues of magnetospheric dynamics. In this paper we report the flapping motion of the current sheet detected in the tailward flow of a magnetic reconnection event on 7 February 2009. This flapping motion with frequency about 12 mHz was accompanied by magnetic turbulence. The observations by the tail‐elongated fleet of five Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms probes indicate that these flapping oscillations were rather confined within the tailward flow than were due to a global process. This flapping motion could be due to the instability driven by the free energy associated with the ion temperature anisotropy in the tailward flow. Our observations indicate that the flapping motion in the tailward flow could have a different generation mechanism with that in the earthward flow.
Size characteristics of chromophoric dissolved organic matter in the Chukchi Sea
Authors: Lin Hui , Chen Min , Zeng Jian , Li Qi , Jia Renming , Sun Xiuwu , Zheng Minfang , Qiu Yusheng
Published: August 2016

With the Arctic warming, terrestrial input plays a more important role in carbon cycle in the Arctic Ocean than before. Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) as a tracer of terrestrial dissolved organic matter (tDOM) becomes more valuable in elucidating the source and compositions of DOM. Although measurements of DOM in the Arctic Ocean have been widely reported, characteristics of high molecular weight colloids are still poorly understood. In this study, the bulk absorbance and size fractograms of CDOM were measured in the Chukchi Seas using an asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation (AF4) coupled online with UV‐vis detectors. Both CDOM a254, absorption coefficient at 254 nm, and the integrated UV254 (from AF4 UV‐vis detector) of three colloidal fractions (1–10, 10–100, and >100 kDa) significantly correlated with the fraction of meteoric water (fmw) calculated from δ18O in seawater, which indicates that the CDOM was mainly derived from terrestrial input and a254 is a potential tracer of tDOM in the Chukchi Sea. Compared with the larger colloidal fractions (10–100 and >100 kDa), the smaller colloidal fraction (1–10 kDa) showed a stronger correlation with the fmw, suggesting the smaller colloids were of mostly terrigenous origin. Values of field measured spectral slope at 275–295 nm (s275–295), a tDOM proxy, were significantly lower than the model‐estimated s275–295 calculated from the MODIS Aqu satellite remote sensing data, which indicated that terrestrial input of CDOM derived from model calculation was likely underestimated in the Chukchi Sea.
Lagrangian pathways of upwelling in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Viglione Giuliana A. , Thompson Andrew F.
Published: August 2016

The spatial and temporal variability of upwelling into the mixed layer in the Southern Ocean is studied using a 1/10
ocean general circulation model. Virtual drifters are released in a regularly spaced pattern across the Southern Ocean at depths of 250, 500, and 1000 m during both summer and winter months. The drifters are advected along isopycnals for a period of 4 years, unless they outcrop into the mixed layer, where lateral advection and a parameterization of vertical mixing are applied. The focus of this study is on the discrete exchange between the model mixed layer and the interior. Localization of interior‐mixed layer exchange occurs downstream of major topographic features across the Indian and Pacific basins, creating “hotspots” of outcropping. Minimal outcropping occurs in the Atlantic basin, while 59% of drifters outcrop in the Pacific sector and in Drake Passage (the region from 140
W to 40
W), a disproportionately large amount even when considering the relative basin sizes. Due to spatial and temporal variations in mixed layer depth, the Lagrangian trajectories provide a statistical measure of mixed layer residence times. For each exchange into the mixed layer, the residence time has a Rayleigh distribution with a mean of 30 days; the cumulative residence time of the drifters is 261 ± 194 days, over a period of 4 years. These results suggest that certain oceanic gas concentrations, such as CO2 and 14C, will likely not reach equilibrium with the atmosphere before being resubducted.
Summer atmospheric circulation anomalies over the Arctic Ocean and their influences on September sea ice extent: A cautionary tale
Authors: Serreze Mark C. , Stroeve Julienne , Barrett Andrew P. , Boisvert Linette N.
Published: August 2016

Numerous studies have addressed links between summer atmospheric circulation patterns and interannual variability and the downward trend in total September Arctic sea ice extent. In general, low extent is favored when the preceding summer is characterized by positive sea level pressure (SLP) anomalies over the central Arctic Ocean north of Alaska. High extent is favored when low pressure dominates. If such atmospheric patterns could be predicted several months out, these links provide an avenue for improved seasonal predictability of total September extent. We analyze detrended September extent time series (1979–2015), atmospheric reanalysis fields, ice age and motion, and Atmospheric Infrared Sounder data, to show that while there is merit to this summer circulation framework, it has limitations. Large departures in total September extent relative to the trend line are preceded by a wide range of summer circulation patterns. While patterns for the four years with the largest positive departures in September extent have below average SLP over the central Arctic Ocean, they differ markedly in the magnitude and location of pressure and air temperature anomalies. Differences in circulation for the four years with the largest negative departures are equally prominent. Circulation anomalies preceding Septembers with ice extent close to the trend also have a wide range of patterns. In turn, years (such as 2013 and 2014) with almost identical total September extent were preceded by very different summer circulation patterns. September ice conditions can also be strongly shaped by events as far back as the previous winter or spring.
On the Origin of Hysteresis in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Yiliang , Shen Heping , Walter Daniel , Jacobs Daniel , Duong The , Peng Jun , Jiang Liangcong , Cheng Yi‐Bing , Weber Klaus
Published: August 2016

The origin of hysteresis behavior is probed in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with simultaneous measurements of cell open circuit voltage (Voc) and photoluminescence intensity over time following illumination of the cell. It is shown, for the first time, that the transient changes in terminal voltage and luminescent intensity do not follow the relationship that would be predicted by the generalized Plank radiation law. A mechanism is proposed based on the presence of a resistive barrier to majority carrier flow at the interface between the perovskite film and the electron or hole transport layer, in combination with significant interface recombination. This results in a decoupling of the internal quasi‐Fermi level separation and the externally measured voltage. A simple numerical model is used to provide in‐principle validation for the proposed mechanism and it is confirmed that mobile ionic species are a likely candidate for creating the time‐varying majority carrier bottleneck by its reduced conductivity. The findings show that the Voc of PSCs may be lower than the limit imposed by the cell luminescence efficiency, even under steady‐state conditions.
Aggregation Induced Enhancement of Linear and Nonlinear Optical Emission from a Hexaphenylene Derivative
Authors: Duan Yulong , Ju Chenggong , Yang Guang , Fron Eduard , Coutino‐Gonzalez Eduardo , Semin Sergey , Fan Chencheng , Balok Ryan S. , Cremers Jonathan , Tinnemans Paul , Feng Yaqing , Li Yuliang , Hofkens Johan , Rowan Alan E. , Rasing Theo , Xu Jialiang
Published: August 2016

The discovery of the phenomenon known as aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) has opened the door to a variety of brilliant organic solid‐state light‐emitting materials. While AIE is well established in linear optics, the development of AIE luminogens (AIEgens) with highly efficient nonlinear optical (NLO) effects remains relatively unexplored. Particularly, second‐order NLO requires the AIEgens to be organized in a non‐centrosymmetric fashion, and such examples are rarely reported. Here, an AIEgen, 2,7‐di([1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)‐fluorenone (4‐DBpFO), is designed and synthesized by introducing a carbonyl group onto the backbone of p‐hexaphenylene. The restricted rotation of the compound upon aggregation results in a dramatic enhancement of the linear optical emission when forming self‐assemblies. Furthermore, introducing the carbonyl group drives the formation of hydrogen bonded molecular chains, which are attached by the zigzag CH⋅⋅⋅π interactions in a non‐centrosymmetric way. As a result, the dipole of each individual molecule contributes accumulatively to a macroscopic dipole of the formed 4‐DBpFO microcrystals. This leads to a highly efficient second harmonic generation with very high laser damage treshold. This AIEgen, whose optical response is greatly enhanced in both linear and nonlinear optical regimes upon the formation of well‐defined self‐assemblies, has potential applications in next generation photonic circuits.
Impregnation and Swelling of Wood with Salts: Ion Specific Kinetics and Thermodynamics Effects
Authors: Barbetta Aurelio , Fratzl Peter , Zemb Thomas , Bertinetti Luca
Published: August 2016

The effects of salt impregnation are studied within wood cell walls, occurring upon soaking from concentrated salt solutions. Osmotic deswelling is in some cases followed by ion specific swelling linked to Hofmeister effects. Taking into account microstructure, this study models the free energy changes associated with the ions and water uptake at molecular, colloidal, and macroscopic mechanical scales, to show that slow swelling until osmotic equilibrium originates from charge separation of the salt diffused into wood cell wall material. Kinetic effects as well as mechanical effects linked to transfer of species and swelling of the interstitial matrix between cellulose crystals are discussed. Predictions by minimal models taking into account nonelectrostatic ion complexation allow to estimate the order of magnitude of the nonelectrostatic binding free energy of adsorbed chaotropic anions and complexed divalent cations to be 8 and 10 kJ mole–1, respectively.
A candidate transacting modulator of fetal hemoglobin gene expression in the Arab—Indian haplotype of sickle cell anemia
Authors: Vathipadiekal Vinod , Farrell John J. , Wang Shuai , Edward Heather L. , Shappell Heather , Al‐Rubaish A.M. , Al‐Muhanna Fahad , Naserullah Z. , Alsuliman A. , Qutub Hatem Othman , Simkin Irene , Farrer Lindsay A. , Jiang Zhihua , Luo Hong‐Yuan , Huang Shengwen , Mostoslavsky Gustavo , Murphy George J. , Patra Pradeep K. , Chui David H.K. , Alsultan Abdulrahman , Al‐Ali Amein K. , Sebastiani Paola , Steinberg Martin H.
Published: August 2016

Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels are higher in the Arab–Indian (AI) β‐globin gene haplotype of sickle cell anemia compared with African‐origin haplotypes. To study genetic elements that effect HbF expression in the AI haplotype we completed whole genome sequencing in 14 Saudi AI haplotype sickle hemoglobin homozygotes—seven selected for low HbF (8.2% ± 1.3%) and seven selected for high HbF (23.5% ± 2.6%). An intronic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in ANTXR1, an anthrax toxin receptor (chromosome 2p13), was associated with HbF. These results were replicated in two independent Saudi AI haplotype cohorts of 120 and 139 patients, but not in 76 Saudi Benin haplotype, 894 African origin haplotype and 44 AI haplotype patients of Indian origin, suggesting that this association is effective only in the Saudi AI haplotype background. ANTXR1 variants explained 10% of the HbF variability compared with 8% for BCL11A. These two genes had independent, additive effects on HbF and together explained about 15% of HbF variability in Saudi AI sickle cell anemia patients. ANTXR1 was expressed at mRNA and protein levels in erythroid progenitors derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and CD34+ cells. As CD34+ cells matured and their HbF decreased ANTXR1 expression increased; as iPSCs differentiated and their HbF increased, ANTXR1 expression decreased. Along with elements in cis to the HbF genes, ANTXR1 contributes to the variation in HbF in Saudi AI haplotype sickle cell anemia and is the first gene in trans to HBB that is associated with HbF only in carriers of the Saudi AI haplotype. Am. J. Hematol. 91:1118–1122, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of thermal crosslinking on the properties of sulfonated poly(phenylene sulfone)s as proton conductive membranes
Authors: Zhang Yaojian , Kim Je‐Deok , Miyatake Kenji
Published: August 2016

The synthesis and characterization of crosslinked aromatic polymer membranes with high ion exchange capacity (IEC) values are reported. Through aromatic nucleophilic substitution polycondensation and the subsequent sulfonation reaction, the highly sulfonated polymers SPPSU‐2S and SPPSU‐4S with high molecular weight (Mn = 138–145 kDa, Mw = 200–279 kDa) and well‐defined structures were synthesized. By solution casting and thermal annealing treatment, flexible crosslinked membranes with high solvent insolubility were obtained. The membranes exhibited mechanical and chemical stability as confirmed by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and conductivity measurement. The crosslinked SPPSU‐4S membrane with IEC = 3.20 meq/g showed the highest proton conductivity of 0.163 S/cm at 120 °C, 90% RH, and improved thermal stability compared with its precursor (uncrosslinked) membrane. The results show that simple annealing method could improve significantly membranes properties of highly sulfonated aromatic polymers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44218.
Steric and Electronic Effects of Bidentate Phosphine Ligands on Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Zhang Pan , Ni Shao‐Fei , Dang Li
Published: August 2016

The reactivity difference between the hydrogenation of CO2 catalyzed by various ruthenium bidentate phosphine complexes was explored by DFT. In addition to the ligand dmpe (Me2PCH2CH2PMe2), which was studied experimentally previously, a more bulky diphosphine ligand, dmpp (Me2PCH2CH2CH2PMe2), together with a more electron‐withdrawing diphosphine ligand, PNMeP (Me2PCH2NMeCH2PMe2), have been studied theoretically to analyze the steric and electronic effects on these catalyzed reactions. Results show that all of the most favorable pathways for the hydrogenation of CO2 catalyzed by bidentate phosphine ruthenium dihydride complexes undergo three major steps: cis–trans isomerization of ruthenium dihydride complex, CO2 insertion into the Ru−H bond, and H2 insertion into the ruthenium formate ion. Of these steps, CO2 insertion into the Ru−H bond has the lowest barrier compared with the other two steps in each preferred pathway. For the hydrogenation of CO2 catalyzed by ruthenium complexes of dmpe and dmpp, cis–trans isomerization of ruthenium dihydride complex has a similar barrier to that of H2 insertion into the ruthenium formate ion. However, in the reaction catalyzed by the PNMePRu complex, cis–trans isomerization of the ruthenium dihydride complex has a lower barrier than H2 insertion into the ruthenium formate ion. These results suggest that the steric effect caused by the change of the outer sphere of the diphosphine ligand on the reaction is not clear, although the electronic effect is significant to cis–trans isomerization and H2 insertion. This finding refreshes understanding of the mechanism and provides necessary insights for ligand design in transition‐metal‐catalyzed CO2 transformation.
“Is voice a marker for Autism spectrum disorder? A systematic review and meta‐analysis”
Authors: Fusaroli Riccardo , Lambrechts Anna , Bang Dan , Bowler Dermot M. , Gaigg Sebastian B.
Published: August 2016

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) tend to show distinctive, atypical acoustic patterns of speech. These behaviors affect social interactions and social development and could represent a non‐invasive marker for ASD. We systematically reviewed the literature quantifying acoustic patterns in ASD. Search terms were: (prosody OR intonation OR inflection OR intensity OR pitch OR fundamental frequency OR speech rate OR voice quality OR acoustic) AND (autis* OR Asperger). Results were filtered to include only: empirical studies quantifying acoustic features of vocal production in ASD, with a sample size >2, and the inclusion of a neurotypical comparison group and/or correlations between acoustic measures and severity of clinical features. We identified 34 articles, including 30 univariate studies and 15 multivariate machine‐learning studies. We performed meta‐analyses of the univariate studies, identifying significant differences in mean pitch and pitch range between individuals with ASD and comparison participants (Cohen's d of 0.4–0.5 and discriminatory accuracy of about 61–64%). The multivariate studies reported higher accuracies than the univariate studies (63–96%). However, the methods used and the acoustic features investigated were too diverse for performing meta‐analysis. We conclude that multivariate studies of acoustic patterns are a promising but yet unsystematic avenue for establishing ASD markers. We outline three recommendations for future studies: open data, open methods, and theory‐driven research. Autism Res 2017, 10: 384–407. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is engaging in evidence‐informed practice in education rational? What accounts for discrepancies in teachers' attitudes towards evidence use and actual instances of evidence use in schools?
Authors: Brown Chris , Zhang Dell
Published: August 2016

Whilst beneficial, the consistent and regular use of evidence to improve teaching and learning in schools is proving difficult to achieve in practice. This paper attempts to shed new light on this issue by examining the applicability of a model of rational behaviour as it relates to the notion of evidence‐informed practice (EIP). Specifically, exploring the question: ‘if EIP is rational behavior, why aren't all teachers engaged in it?’, we examine whether the beliefs and perspectives of teachers in relation to EIP, align with their evidence‐use behaviours. We then assess what factors (if any) prevent teachers/schools who wish to engage in EIP from doing so. To examine beliefs, instances of, and barriers to evidence use, we employ a Gradient Boosted Tree predictive model to analyse data from a survey of 696 practitioners in 79 schools. Our findings suggest that, should they wish to increase EIP within their schools, school leaders need to: 1) promote the vision for evidence‐use (i.e. actively encourage its use); 2) illustrate how research and evidence can be effectively employed to enhance aspects of teaching and learning; and 3) establish effective learning environments, in which learning conversations around the use of evidence, can flourish. Simultaneously we caution that evidence use will never be fully or meaningfully realised unless school leaders prioritise EIP as a school commitment. Simultaneously, it is unlikely that such prioritisation will occur until EIP forms part of any education system's accountability regime.
Determination of pholcodine in syrups and human plasma using the chemiluminescence system of tris(1,10 phenanthroline)ruthenium(II) and acidic Ce(IV)
Authors: Delouei Nastaran Jafari , Mokhtari Ali , Jamali Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2016

Pholcodine is an opiate derivative drug which is widely used in pediatric medicine. In this study, a chemiluminescence (CL) method is described that determines pholcodine in human plasma and syrup samples. This method is based on the fact that pholcodine can greatly enhance the weak CL emission of reaction between tris(1,10 phenanthroline)ruthenium(II), Ru(phen)32+, and acidic Ce(IV). The CL mechanism is described in detail using UV–vis light, fluorescence and CL spectra. Effects of chemical variables were investigated and under optimum conditions, CL intensity was proportional to the pholcodine concentration over the range 4.0 × 10−8 to 8.0 × 10−6 mol  L−1. The limit of detection (LOD) (S/N = 3) was 2.5 × 10−8 mol  L−1. Percent of relative standard deviations (%RSD) for 3.0 × 10−7 and 3.0 × 10−6 mol  L−1 of pholcodine was 2.9 and 4.0%, respectively. Effects of common ingredients were investigated and the method was applied successfully to the determination of pholcodine in syrup samples and human plasma.
Sexism within anatomy as perceived by professional anatomists and in comparison with the perceptions of medical students
Authors: Morgan Susan , Plaisant Odile , Lignier Baptiste , Moxham Bernard J.
Published: August 2016

Two hundred and eight professional anatomists responded to a questionnaire inviting them to address the possibility that social/gender factors hinder the dispassionate representation of anatomy. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from Cardiff University. The results of the survey provided comparisons with the attitudes of medical students that have previously been reported (Morgan et al., 2014). Although a few differences were discerned between females and males in our surveys and between anatomists and medical students, overall our findings suggest that, while both professional anatomists and medical students recognize the importance of gender issues and do not wish to associate with sexism, most are unaware of the possible negative aspects of sexism within anatomy. We recommend that teachers of anatomy should become more aware of the possibility of adverse effects on professional matters relating to equality and diversity issues. Clin. Anat. 29:892–910, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Catalyst‐Free Difunctionalization of Activated Alkenes in Water: Efficient Synthesis of β‐Keto Sulfides and Sulfones
Authors: Wang Huamin , Wang Guangyu , Lu Qingquan , Chiang Chien‐Wei , Peng Pan , Zhou Jiufu , Lei Aiwen
Published: August 2016

Difunctionalization of activated alkenes, a powerful strategy in chemical synthesis, has been accomplished for direct synthesis of a series of β‐keto sulfides and β‐keto sulfones. The transformation, mediated by O2, proceeds smoothly in water and without any catalyst. Prominent advantages of this method include mild reaction conditions, purification simplicity, and gram‐scale synthesis, underlining the practical utility of this methodology.
Efficacy of Rhizobia for Improving Photosynthesis, Productivity, and Mineral Nutrition of Maize
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Baqir , Zahir Zahir Ahmad , Asghar Hafiz Naeem , Mubaraka Rafia , Naveed Muhammad
Published: August 2016

Rhizobia respond differently for improving physiology, nutrition, and yield of maize under field conditions. Therefore, in the present study, maize seeds (cv. Neelum) were inoculated with Rhizobium phaseoli (strains RS‐1 and RS‐3) and Mesorhizobium ciceri (strains RS‐8 and RS‐12) and sown in fields (sites 1 and 2) having sandy clay loam soil. Plants inoculated with RS‐3 showed significant increases in plant height, fresh biomass, cob yield, grain yield, grain P, and shoot K contents, as compared to control at both sites. Whereas RS‐1 inoculated plants showed increases in the photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, water use efficiency, mesophyll conductance, and intrinsic/photosynthetic water use efficiency compared with control. RS‐8 inoculated plants showed highest 1000 grain weight, sub‐stomatal conductance and relative water content compared to control. However, the highest amount of crude protein, N in shoot/grain and shoot K contents were recorded due to RS‐12 inoculation as compared to un‐inoculated control. The findings of the experiments clearly demonstrated higher potential of RS‐1 and RS‐3 species over RS‐8 and RS‐12 for improving growth, physiology, and yield of maize plants under field conditions which might be due to a specific compatibility of RS‐1 and RS‐3 with maize cultivar Neelum, as the strength of association is determined by type and species of plant/bacteria and growth conditions.
Neon‐Bearing Ammonium Metal Formates: Formation and Behaviour under Pressure
Authors: Collings Ines E. , Bykova Elena , Bykov Maxim , Petitgirard Sylvain , Hanfland Michael , Paliwoda Damian , Dubrovinsky Leonid , Dubrovinskaia Natalia
Published: August 2016

The incorporation of noble gas atoms, in particular neon, into the pores of network structures is very challenging due to the weak interactions they experience with the network solid. Using high‐pressure single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, we demonstrate that neon atoms enter into the extended network of ammonium metal formates, thus forming compounds Nex[NH4][M(HCOO)3]. This phenomenon modifies the compressional and structural behaviours of the ammonium metal formates under pressure. The neon atoms can be clearly localised within the centre of [M(HCOO)3]5 cages and the total saturation of this site is achieved after ∼1.5 GPa. We find that by using argon as the pressure‐transmitting medium, the inclusion inside [NH4][M(HCOO)3] is inhibited due to the larger size of the argon. This study illustrates the size selectivity of [NH4][M(HCOO)3] compounds between neon and argon insertion under pressure, and the effect of inclusion on the high‐pressure behaviour of neon‐bearing ammonium metal formates.
Multifunctional Mixed Micelles for Efficient Docetaxol Delivery for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Pei , He Wenxiu , Zhang Huiyuan , Huang Chunzhi , Zhao Dujuan , Luan Yuxia
Published: August 2016

The objective of this study was to build mixed micelles based on two functional co‐polymers, including the redox‐sensitive polymer–drug conjugate methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(γ‐benzyl l‐glutamate)‐disulfide‐docetaxel (PEG–PBLG‐SS‐DTX) and the actively targeting methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)–folic acid (PEG–FA), for enhanced target specificity and improved anticancer efficiency of docetaxel (DTX). The spherical PEG–PBLG‐SS‐DTX/PEG–FA mixed micelles prepared by the dialysis method revealed a narrowly distributed size at 129.7±2.1 nm with low polydispersity of 0.10±0.02. Furthermore, the critical micelle concentration of the mixed micelles was 5.08 μg mL−1, indicating excellent self‐assembly ability in water and stability against dilution in blood circulation. The in vitro release study revealed that the conjugated DTX was rapidly released in response to dl‐dithiothreitol (DTT), a reducing agent. Only 12.3 % of DTX was released from the mixed micelles after 120 h in the absence of DTT. However, the accumulative release of DTX dramatically accelerated and reached more than 40 % in 120 h after addition of DTT. The in vitro cytotoxicity, cellular uptake and cell apoptosis experiments on the mixed micelles were performed using MTT assay, fluorescence inverted microscopy and flow cytometric analysis, and 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) staining, respectively, on folate receptor (FR)‐negative A549 and FR‐positive MCF‐7 cells. The mixed micelles could be taken up efficiently by MCF‐7 cells by FR‐mediated endocytosis compared with PEG–PBLG‐SS‐DTX micelles. Furthermore, remarkable cytotoxicity and cell apoptosis were identified for the mixed micelles against MCF‐7 cells, which was consistent with the results of the cellular uptake study. On the basis of these results, the redox‐sensitive PEG–PBLG‐SS‐DTX/PEG–FA mixed micelles using FA as a targeting ligand revealed prominent antitumor efficiency and might be a latent drug carrier for cancer chemotherapy.
Analysis of a balanced analog multiplier for an arbitrary number of signed inputs
Authors: Hong Brian , Hajimiri Ali
Published: August 2016

We present an extension of the double‐balanced current‐commutating analog multiplier (also known as the Gilbert cell) that enables the multiplication of an arbitrary number of signed differential input voltages. A general analysis of the circuit for an arbitrary device nonlinearity is provided, and simulations on a bulk CMOS process as well as measurement results of a discrete bipolar implementation are reported. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychosocial Well‐being of Siblings of Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: van Langenberg Tanja , Sawyer Susan M. , Le Grange Daniel , Hughes Elizabeth K.
Published: August 2016

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is often first diagnosed in the adolescent years. The treatment with the greatest evidence during this time is family‐based treatment (FBT). In FBT, siblings are expected to attend treatment sessions; however, sibling well‐being during this time has not been well researched. This study aimed to explore sibling well‐being when the ill child was initially diagnosed with AN and after FBT had been completed.

Method

Eighty‐five parents and 55 siblings of adolescents with AN completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at diagnosis. In addition, 88 parents and 46 siblings completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire after finishing treatment.

Results

Mothers and fathers reported siblings to have lower levels of conduct problems in comparison with population norms. Mothers also reported lower levels of prosocial behaviours. Siblings reported higher levels of emotional difficulties and hyperactivity in comparison with their peers. There were no differences in reported psychosocial well‐being of siblings between diagnosis and following FBT.

Conclusions

Siblings of adolescents with AN have poorer psychosocial adjustment than their peers, both before and after FBT. Clinicians and parents are encouraged to be aware of sibling difficulties and seek additional support if required. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Vertical Articulation of Cut Scores Across the Grades: Current Practices and Methodological Implications in the Light of the Next Generation of K–12 Assessments
Authors: Kannan Priya
Published: August 2016

Federal accountability requirements after the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 and the need to report progress for various disaggregated subgroups of students meant that the methods used to set and articulate performance standards across the grades must be revisited. Several solutions that involve either a priori deliberations or post‐hoc adjustments have been offered over the years. In this paper, I provide a methodological review of the alternative cut‐score articulation methods, including some novel solutions (e.g., using predictive methods) that have been proposed in the context of the next‐generation K–12 assessments. In systematically evaluating these methods, I focus on the psychometric challenges they might present and the practical feasibility of their operational implementation. In addition, results from a survey of several state departments of education help to provide information on the prevalence of these methods across the states. Overall, this review shows that none of the alternative methods is completely free of limitation; yet, each method provides solutions that are appropriate for addressing certain methodological and practical requirements. Therefore, in the context of the next‐generation assessments and the need to identify students who are on track to being college and career ready, practitioners are advised to consider a combination of methods and cautioned against overreliance on any single method.
Effects of Beach Nourishment and the Influence of Irrigation Water Discharge on Byunsan Beach, West Coast, Korea
Authors: Choi Jin‐Yong , Park Jun‐Yong , Choi Jung‐Hoon , Lee Jeong‐Min
Published: August 2016

Byunsan Beach located on the west coast of Korea has been undergoing significant erosion in recent years during and after the construction of a large tidal embankment, the Saemanguem Dike, mostly because of the blocking of the sand supply from rivers. To reduce and prevent beach erosion, the Korean government decided to carry out beach nourishment in May 2012 just before the summer season. In order to monitor the performance of beach nourishment, precise measurements of beach morphology were taken 21 times during a 1‐year period from May 2012 to April 2013 by using a RTK‐GPS system. The result showed that the beach nourishment preserved the beach effectively, based on the fact that most of the additional sand remained on the beach after 1 year. Although a local part of the beach was severely eroded by a heavy volume of irrigation discharge during the summer rainy spell, it recovered within a short period of time. As a major erosional event the whole area of the beach experienced massive erosion in a strong cyclone, Typhoon Sanba, in September 2012, but the beach recovered rapidly after the typhoon. Sediment accumulation also took place during the winter season, retaining the sand and aiding recovery of the beach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimation of Runoff Ratios of Pesticide Residue from Paddy Fields Using the RICEWQ Model
Authors: Jin So‐Hyun , Choi Dong‐Ho , Yoon Kwang‐Sik , Choi Woo‐Jung , Shim Jae‐Han
Published: August 2016

Runoff ratios, of losses by runoff to applied amounts, of pesticides butachlor, oxadiazone, chlorpyrifos‐me, diazinon, 2,4‐D and carbaryl were estimated using the RICEWQ model in certain paddy fields. To reflect the actual water management by farmers, the water balance of a paddy field in Korea was monitored. A hydrology submodel was calibrated with observed field data. Laboratory incubation tests were conducted and the decaying pesticide concentrations monitored. Parameters for the pesticide submodel were determined by using incubation test results after calibration. The RICEWQ model simulated runoff and concentrations of the pesticide using the calibrated hydrologic and pesticide submodels under a conventional pesticide application scenario. The runoff ratio of each pesticide was estimated based on simulation results. When the application date of the pesticide was varied up to 7 days, the runoff ratios of butachlor, oxadiazone, chlorpyrifos‐me, diazinon, 2,4‐D and carbaryl varied between 13.1 ~ 17.5, 1.2 ~ 1.4, 0.57 ~ 0.66, 12.0 ~ 20.5, 21.9 ~ 28.9 and 12.7 ~ 14.3%, respectively. In general, pesticides with a longer half‐life and a lower soil‐water partitioning coefficient for organic compounds (Koc) resulted in a higher runoff ratio. The simulation results showed that proper application practice and drainage management are to be recommended to reduce the runoff ratio of pesticides. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shoulder arthritis secondary to rotator cuff tear: A reproducible murine model and histopathologic scoring system
Authors: Zingman Alissa , Li Hiayan , Sundem Leigh , DeHority Becca , Geary Michael , Fussel Theron , Mooney Robert , Zuscik Michael , Elfar John
Published: August 2016

Untreated rotator cuff tears can progress to a distinct form of shoulder arthritis, and the mechanism of this progression is poorly understood. Biomechanical, molecular and genetic factors may be at play, and a reliable animal model is needed to enable further research. The purpose of this study was to create a reproducible model of posttraumatic shoulder arthritis in the mouse, and to develop a scoring system for this model to enable future research on interventions, the role of various gene products, and the development of therapies to alter the natural course of the disease. Forty‐five mice underwent operative ligation of the rotator cuff tendons and were followed for 45 weeks following surgery, with free cage activity post‐operatively. Mice were sacrificed at various intervals from 2 to 45 weeks post‐injury and histopathologic scoring was developed and tested by blinded reviewers using both quantitative computational analysis of coronal sections of the shoulder joint and semi‐quantitative grading. The scoring system revealed a progressive, time‐dependent set of tissue changes in the shoulder joint with features similar to human cuff tear arthropathy including acetabularization of the acromion and femoralization of the humeral head. This model establishes that osteoarthritis of the shoulder is distinct from osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, with different stages of degeneration and unique histopathologic features. Using the novel grading procedure and quantitative assessments presented here, future research using this model will enable investigators to test established and novel therapies and evaluate the role of inflammatory factors and gene products in shoulder arthritis. This study provides a reproducible mouse model of shoulder arthritis following isolated injury to the rotator cuff which elucidates characteristics of cuff tear arthropathy and provides a scoring system and venue for future research. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:506–514, 2017.
Intensification of Upland Agriculture in Thailand: Development or Degradation?
Authors: Bruun Thilde Bech , de Neergaard Andreas , Burup Maria Libach , Hepp Catherine Maria , Larsen Marianne Nylandsted , Abel Christin , Aumtong Supathida , Magid Jakob , Mertz Ole
Published: August 2016

The large scale conversion of extensive swidden agriculture to intensive market oriented production of maize in upland areas of South East Asia is a cause of environmental concern. This study investigates how intensive maize cultivation affects soil quality in an upland area of Northern Thailand by comparing commonly used indicators of soil quality in soils from maize fields used at various intensities. Relations between these indicators and concentration of permanganate oxidizable carbon (Pox‐C) – a low cost proxy for soil quality – are also examined. The extent, type and drivers of land use changes between 2002 and 2012 are investigated by classification of high resolution satellite images, interviews, participatory mapping and questionnaires. We document a widespread change from traditional swidden agriculture to intensive cultivation of maize that is mainly brought about by economcic and political drivers. We show that the concentration of Pox‐C in the top soil of the maize fields is closely related to common indicators of soil quality and to farmers' perceptions of soil quality. Most of the other soil quality indicators are negatively – albeit not significantly – related to intensity of maize cultivation. There is a strong negative correlation between intensity of maize cultivation and concentration of Pox‐C in the upper 5 cm of the soil where the Pox‐C concentration declines with a rate of 40 mg year under maize−1. We conclude that Pox‐C is a sensitive indicator of effects of land use intensity on the soil and a useful integrative measure of soil quality. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TMPRSS2‐ERG gene fusion is rare compared to PTEN deletions in stage T1a prostate cancer
Authors: Fisher Kurt W. , Zhang Shaobo , Wang Mingsheng , Montironi Rodolfo , Wang Lisha , Baldrige Lee A. , Wang Jonas Y. , MacLennan Gregory T. , Williamson Sean R. , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , Cheng Liang
Published: August 2016

T1a prostate cancers (cancer found incidentally in transurethral resection, <5% of the tissue) are indolent tumors of the transition zone. The overexpression of ERG and the inactivation of PTEN have been shown to be important drivers of carcinogenesis in large series of prostate cancer, but the genetics of transition zone tumors have not been well characterized. We evaluated the status of ERG and PTEN in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue using immunohistochemical and FISH analysis in 54 T1a transition zone tumors. The protein expression of ERG was determined using a rabbit monoclonal antibody and nuclear staining was scored as positive or negative. The genomic status of ERG was determined using three colored FISH using an ERG‐TMPRSS2 tri‐color probe set. The protein expression of PTEN was determined using a rabbit monoclonal antibody and cytoplasmic, and nuclear staining was scored as positive or negative. The genomic status of PTEN was determined using dual color FISH with a PTEN probe and a CEP10 probe. We found ERG rearrangement in 2 of 54 tumors (4%), one with protein overexpression by immunohistochemistry. PTEN inactivation was seen in 13 of 54 tumors (24%). Nine of the 13 PTEN alleles were inactivated by hemizygous deletion. No homozygous PTEN deletion was observed. PTEN deletion and ERG rearrangement were mutually exclusive. ERG rearrangement was rare compared to peripheral zone tumors and to PTEN inactivation in T1a transition zone tumors. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of an adverse events reporting form for Korean folk medicine
Authors: Park Jeong Hwan , Choi Sun‐Mi , Moon Sujeong , Kim Sungha , Kim Boyoung , Kim Min‐Kyeoung , Lee Sanghun
Published: August 2016

Purpose

We developed an adverse events (AEs) reporting form for Korean folk medicine.

Methods

The first version of the form was developed and tested in the clinical setting for spontaneous reporting of AEs. Additional revisions to the reporting form were made based on collected data and expert input.

Results

We developed an AEs reporting form for Korean folk medicine. The items of this form were based on patient information, folk medicine properties, and AEs. For causality assessment, folk medicine properties such as classification, common and vernacular names, scientific name, part used, harvesting time, storage conditions, purchasing route, product licensing, prescription, persons with similar exposure, any remnant of raw natural products collected from the patient, and cautions or contraindications were added.

Conclusions

This is the first reporting form for AEs that incorporates important characteristics of Korean folk medicine. This form would have an important role in reporting adverse events for Korean folk medicine. © 2016 The Authors. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Fabrication of biomimetic gecko toe pads and their characterization
Authors: Estrada A. S. Adriana , Lin Hong‐Ru
Published: August 2016

The mimicking and fabrication of gecko toe pads structures can lead to limitless applications. In this study, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and polycaprolactone (PCL) nano‐fibers are fabricated using a porous membrane as template. The surface characteristics and physical properties of the samples yield different geometries, which determine the wetting and adhesive properties of the fabricated samples. Oriented and wave‐like shapes fibers present the Gecko effect, thanks to their ability to comply and hydrophobic asperities that uphold the water droplet when the wetting properties were tested. The samples are also found to be self‐cleaning due to their high contact angles and low contact angle hysteresis. Adhesion tests results prove that the samples are high reversible adhesion with the ability to stick to smooth surface in a dry and underwater environment. The adhesion on the samples can be enhanced with a double fibril layer or buckling property. They adhere better when the surface is not hydrophilic. By behaving in similar way as the real geckos, the results of this study show that the fabricated samples effectively present the Gecko effect. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:283–290, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers