bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of multiconstellation satellite signal reception on performance of satellite‐based navigation under adverse ionospheric conditions
Authors: Paul Ashik , Paul Krishnendu Sekhar , Das Aditi
Published: March 2017

Application of multiconstellation satellites to address the issue of satellite signal outages during periods of equatorial ionospheric scintillations could prove to be an effective tool for maintaining the performance of satellite‐based communication and navigation without compromise in accuracy and integrity. A receiver capable of tracking GPS, Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), and Galileo satellites is operational at the Institute of Radio Physics and Electronics, University of Calcutta, Calcutta, India, located near the northern crest of the equatorial ionization anomaly in the Indian longitude sector. The present paper shows increased availability of satellites combining GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo constellations from Calcutta compared to GPS‐only scenario and estimates intense scintillation‐free (S4 < 0.6) satellite vehicle look angles at different hours of the postsunset period 19:00–01:00 LT during March 2014. A representative case of 1 March 2014 is highlighted in the paper and overall statistics for March 2014 presented to indicate quantitative advantages in terms of scintillation‐free satellite vehicle look angles that may be utilized for planning communication and navigation channel spatial distribution under adverse ionospheric conditions. The number of satellites tracked and receiver position deviations has been found to show a good correspondence with the occurrence of intense scintillations and poor user receiver‐satellite link geometry. The ground projection of the 350 km subionospheric points corresponding to multiconstellation shows extended spatial coverage during periods of scintillations (0.2 < S4 < 0.6) compared to GPS.
A joint active/passive physical model of sea surface microwave signatures
Authors: Plant William J. , Irisov Vladimir
Published: March 2017

Active and passive microwave signatures of the ocean can only depend on the ocean wave spectrum if bound and breaking waves are neglected. However, history has not been kind to attempts to explain both radiometer brightness temperatures (Tb) and normalized radar cross sections (σo) of the sea using the same ocean wave spectrum without bound and breaking waves. In this paper, we show that if bound and breaking waves are included in physical models of radiometer and scatterometer microwave signatures of the ocean, a single wave spectrum can explain both Tb and σo to reasonable accuracy. Bound waves are the roughness produced by gently breaking, or crumpling, waves that travel near the speed of the parent wave. Bound wave modeling is based on earlier work by Plant (1997) but using additional information about the slope probability distributions of the bound waves' parents. Breaking wave and foam modeling both build on the function Λ(cb) introduced by Phillips (1985), which describes the average length of breaking wavefronts on the ocean per unit area as a function of breaker velocity, cb. We model Λ(cb) as documented in Irisov and Plant (2016) where we show that the wave spectrum completely determines Λ(cb). We thus show here that the result of including bound and breaking waves in radiometer and scatterometer models of oceanic signatures is a much closer fit to data over a wide range of microwave frequencies and incidence angles using a single wave spectrum.
Overshoot‐free nonholonomic source seeking in 3‐D
Authors: Lin Jinbiao , Song Shiji , You Keyou , Krstic Miroslav
Published: March 2017

This paper studies the problem of steering a nonholonomic vehicle with a constant forward velocity to localize a source in 3‐D. Of two existing 3‐D source‐seeking strategies, one causes overshoots of the vehicle around the source while the other shows slow convergence rate in approaching the source. We propose a composite of these 2 control strategies to achieve a balanced performance by taking advantage of both strategies. Moreover, we prove local exponential stability for a static spherical signal map using averaging and describe the influence of the parameters using root locus method. Simulation results further validate the effectiveness and advantages of the combined strategy.
Adaptive finite‐time control for high‐order nonlinear systems with mismatched disturbances
Authors: Yang Hongjiu , Wang Yingjie , Yang Yana
Published: March 2017

In this paper, adaptive finite‐time control is addressed for a class of high‐order nonlinear systems with mismatched disturbances. An adaptive finite‐time controller is designed in which variable gains are adjusted to ensure finite‐time stabilization for the closed‐loop system. Chattering is reduced by a designed adaptive sliding mode observer which is also used to deal with the mismatched disturbances in finite time. The proposed adaptive finite‐time control method avoids calculating derivative repeatedly of traditional backstepping methods and reduces computational burden effectively. Three numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Ti/Ti3SiC2(/TiC) Bulk and Foam Composites by Pyrolysis of Polycarbosilane and TiH2 Mixtures
Authors: Molero Esther , Ferrari Begoña , Sanchez‐Herencia Antonio Javier , Gordo Elena , Colombo Paolo
Published: March 2017

A preceramic polymer, is mixed with TiH2 particles in different amounts and a MAX phase (Ti3SiC2) are produced by heating in inert atmosphere. Composites produced by mixing the reactive mixture with an excess of TiH2 powder, lead to Ti/Ti3SiC2/TiC bulk composites possessing greatly increased wear resistance and increased hardness in comparison to pure Ti. An emulsion‐based colloidal processing and foaming technique is implemented together to produce cellular Ti composite foams containing TiC and Ti3SiC2 ceramic phases. The addition of methylcellulose enabled to suitably control the viscosity of the aqueous TiH2 slurry and to produce stable foams with homogeneous morphology.
Diastereoselective Synthesis of Functionalized Angularly‐Fused Tetracycles via an Organocatalytic Quadruple Reaction Sequence
Authors: Chang Fu‐Jie , Gurubrahamam Ramani , Chen Kwunmin
Published: March 2017

An efficient diastereoselective strategy to access complex structural tetracycles was described through an organocascade quadruple reaction sequence between (E)‐2‐(3‐arylallylidene)‐1H‐indene‐1,3(2H)‐diones and β‐keto esters. The reaction proceeded through remote 1,6‐addition followed by sequential 1,4‐addition and aldol/aldol reactions to generate angularly‐fused carbocyclic motifs with favourable to excellent yields (up to 94%) and diastereoselectivities (up to >20:1 dr). An enantioselective organocascade approach was attempted to yield densely functionalized tetracycles containing seven chiral centres including a quaternary centre.

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Brown Adipose Tissue Bioenergetics: A New Methodological Approach
Authors: Calderon‐Dominguez María , Alcalá Martín , Sebastián David , Zorzano Antonio , Viana Marta , Serra Dolors , Herrero Laura
Published: March 2017

The rediscovery of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in humans and its capacity to oxidize fat and dissipate energy as heat has put the spotlight on its potential as a therapeutic target in the treatment of several metabolic conditions including obesity and diabetes. To date the measurement of bioenergetics parameters has required the use of cultured cells or extracted mitochondria with the corresponding loss of information in the tissue context. Herein, we present a method to quantify mitochondrial bioenergetics directly in BAT. Based on XF Seahorse Technology, we assessed the appropriate weight of the explants, the exact concentration of each inhibitor in the reaction, and the specific incubation time to optimize bioenergetics measurements. Our results show that BAT basal oxygen consumption is mostly due to proton leak. In addition, BAT presents higher basal oxygen consumption than white adipose tissue and a positive response to b‐adrenergic stimulation. Considering the whole tissue and not just subcellular populations is a direct approach that provides a realistic view of physiological respiration. In addition, it can be adapted to analyze the effect of potential activators of thermogenesis, or to assess the use of fatty acids or glucose as a source of energy.
Interdependent Diversities: Reflections on the Community‐Diversity Dialectic
Authors: Townley Greg
Published: March 2017

This commentary reflects on the Community‐Diversity Dialectic, summarizing its development and reviewing its impact on community psychology research and practice. Two contemporary examples are presented to illustrate both the possibilities of and challenges to bridging the gap between sense of community and diversity: the rise of the so‐called “alt‐right” on the one hand, and the popularity of Pokémon Go on the other. The article concludes with a brief discussion of Kurt Lewin's contributions to group dynamics theory, recommending that an emphasis on our interdependent fates and goals is paramount to reconciling the tensions between sense of community and diversity that persist in an increasingly complex multicultural world.
The final state of gravitational collapse in Eddington‐inspired Born‐Infeld theory
Authors: Tavakoli Yaser , Escamilla‐Rivera Celia , Fabris Júlio C.
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we address the implications when a homogeneous dust model is considered for a scenario of gravitational collapse in the context of Eddington‐inspired Born‐Infeld (EiBI) theory. In order to describe the dynamical evolution of the collapse, we present an effective equation, which constitutes the first order corrections, in EiBI coupling parameter κ, to Einstein's field equations. The geometry outside the collapsing object is derived by imposing the standard Darmois‐Israel junction conditions at the boundary surface of the dust. This induces an effective matter source in the outer region which gives rise to a non‐singular, non‐Schwarzschild geometry at the final state of the collapse. For this exterior geometry, we find the threshold of mass for the formation of the black hole. This provides a cut‐off over κ as .

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Synthesis of Air‐Stable Cyclopentadienyl Fe(CO)2 (Fp) Polymers by a Host–Guest Interaction of Cyclodextrin with Air‐Sensitive Fp Pendant Groups
Authors: Zhou Na , Peng Liao , Salgado Shehan , Yuan Jinying , Wang Xiaosong
Published: March 2017

Host–guest chemistry is used to address the challenge of the synthesis of air‐stable polymers containing air‐sensitive metal complexes. The complexation of the CpFe(CO)2 (Fp) pendent group with cyclodextrin (CD) molecules created air‐stable poly(Fp‐methylstyrene) P(CD/FpMSt). This CD complexation resulted in dimerization of the adjacent Fp groups, which was characterized by NMR, FTIR, and cyclic voltammetry (CV) analyses. P(CD/FpMSt) was soluble in DMSO and remained stable even the solution was exposed to air for months. The host–guest chemistry accounted for the improved stability, because the Fp groups decomposed upon removal of the CD molecules using competing guest molecules. The CD‐complexed polymer showed light‐trigged properties, including CO release and antimicrobial activity. Host–guest chemistry of air‐sensitive organometallic complexes is therefore a promising technique that can be used to broaden the scope of metal‐containing polymers (MCPs) with processable novel functions.
Metal‐Free Intermolecular Aminoarylation of Alkynes
Authors: Rabet Pauline T. G. , Boyd Scott , Greaney Michael F.
Published: March 2017

A metal‐free aminoarylation of internal alkynes is described, yielding tetrasubstituted enaminoates. The transformation proceeds in good to excellent yields through a tandem conjugate addition/Smiles rearrangement involving aryl and heteroaryl sulfonamides. Substrate scope is very broad under simple, user‐friendly conditions, and the reaction can be used to easily access biologically active phenethylamine derivatives.
An Efficient Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Dihydroartemisinic Aldehyde
Authors: Demiray Melodi , Tang Xiaoping , Wirth Thomas , Faraldos Juan A. , Allemann Rudolf K.
Published: March 2017

Artemisinin from the plant Artemisia annua is the most potent pharmaceutical for the treatment of malaria. In the plant, the sesquiterpene cyclase amorphadiene synthase, a cytochrome‐dependent CYP450, and an aldehyde reductase convert farnesyl diphosphate (FDP) into dihydroartemisinic aldehyde (DHAAl), which is a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of artemisinin and a semisynthetic precursor for its chemical synthesis. Here, we report a chemoenzymatic process that is able to deliver DHAAl using only the sesquiterpene synthase from a carefully designed hydroxylated FDP derivative. This process, which reverses the natural order of cyclization of FDP and oxidation of the sesquiterpene hydrocarbon, provides a significant improvement in the synthesis of DHAAl and demonstrates the potential of substrate engineering in the terpene synthase mediated synthesis of high‐value natural products.
Programmable Nanoassemblies from Non‐Assembling Homopolymers Using Ad Hoc Electrostatic Interactions
Authors: Zhuang Jiaming , Garzoni Matteo , Torres Diego Amado , Poe Ambata , Pavan Giovanni M. , Thayumanavan S.
Published: March 2017

Robust nanostructures were obtained from polymers that otherwise do not assemble by using a novel approach based on electrostatic self‐assembly. The essence of this strategy involves the use of divalent counterions to temporarily perturb the packing features of the ionic groups in a homopolymer, which results in a vesicle‐like structure that is captured in situ through a simple crosslinking reaction. The fidelity of the assembly has been tested for molecular transport across the nanomembrane, both for the molecules encapsulated in the lumen and for those trapped in the membrane itself. The membranes are addressable for robust multifunctionalization of their surfaces and for tunable transmembrane molecular transport.
Rationally Designed Carbon Nanodots towards Pure White‐Light Emission
Authors: Arcudi Francesca , Đorđević Luka , Prato Maurizio
Published: March 2017

We report a rational synthesis of carbon nanodots (CNDs) aimed at tailoring their emission, starting from a reasoned choice of organic precursors. To showcase the potential of this approach in a field such as optoelectronics, we designed experiments aimed at preparing materials that emit across the entire visible spectrum. Specifically, using precursors such as arginine, ethylenediamine, naphthalene dianhydride, and 2,6‐dibromonaphtalene dianhydride, in appropriate ratios, it was possible to obtain pure white‐light (0.33, 0.33; CIE coordinates) emitting carbon nanodots (WCNDs) through a one‐step microwave‐assisted synthesis and facile purification. The characterization and properties of this novel nanomaterial is discussed.
Decomposition characteristics of compound additive and effect of roasting atmosphere on vanadium extraction from stone coal
Authors: Zhao Yunliang , Kang Shichang , Wang Wei , Zhang Yimin , Song Shaoxian , Bao Shenxu
Published: March 2017

In this work, the decomposition characteristics of compound additive (NaCl and Na2SO4) were investigated by thermogravimetry–differential scanning calorimetry–mass spectrometry coupling techniques. The results showed that the decomposition of NaCl was prior to that of Na2SO4 and the chlorine was generated during roasting. When the chlorine concentration is more than 2%, the phenomenon of vanadium volatilization becomes obvious in the process of roasting of stone coal. However, the chlorine concentration is less than 50 p.p.m. for the compound additive roasting, which would not cause the vanadium emission. The oxygen concentration of more than 5% is sufficient for oxidizing V(III) in the stone coal to water soluble V(V). Copyright © 2017 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A random acrylate copolymer with epoxy‐amphiphilic structure as an efficient toughener for an epoxy/anhydride system
Authors: Zhao Fangqiao , Fei Xiaoma , Wei Wei , Ye Weitao , Luo Jing , Chen Yaxin , Zhu Ye , Liu Xiaoya
Published: March 2017

Toughening of epoxy resin by block copolymers containing an epoxy‐philic block and an epoxy‐phobic block is usually costly because of their complex preparation procedure. In this work, a novel, random epoxy‐amphiphilic copolymer (PHGEL), which combines an “epoxy‐philic” component and an “epoxy‐phobic” component, has been synthesized and evaluated as a potential toughening agent for a diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A–based epoxy thermoset (EP). The curing behavior of the EP/PHGEL system has been investigated, and the results show that the hydroxyl group on the PHGEL chain can slightly activate the curing reaction. The mechanical testing shows that the toughness of the epoxy resin is improved by 294% when 4 wt % of PHGEL is added. Simultaneously, the tensile strength, elongation at break, and glass‐transition temperature are also improved. In addition, the thermogravimetric analysis shows that PHGEL has no obvious effect on the thermal stability of the epoxy thermosets. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44863.
In situ preparation of graphene‐ZnO composites for enhanced graphite exfoliation and graphene‐nylon‐6 composite films
Authors: Hossain Muhammad Mohsin , Shima Hossain , Lee Insup , Hahn Jae Ryang
Published: March 2017

An effective method for the fabrication of graphene‐ZnO nanoparticle (GZN) composites has been developed. GZN composites with high electrical conductivity (18,607 S/m) are prepared in situ from graphite‐ZnO composites. The GZN composites also exhibit visible‐light absorption and enable the effective exfoliation of graphite. The presence of the ZnO nanoparticles assists the exfoliation of graphite and enables the preparation of solutions of highly dispersed and concentrated graphene sheets (2.7 mg/mL) that exhibit high electrical conductivity without reduction (40,404 S/m). A solution of graphene sheets was used to produce a graphene‐nylon‐6 film with an excellent Young's modulus (3 GPa) and a high tensile strength (109 MPa). An exclusive mechanism was proposed for the improvement of mechanical properties of the nylon‐6 composite film. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45034.
Swelling of polyethylene particles and its relation to sorption equilibria under gas‐phase polymerization conditions
Authors: Podivinská Martina , Jindrová Klára , Chmelař Josef , Kosek Juraj
Published: March 2017

The attempts to predict the swelling of semicrystalline polyolefins using equations of state have not been successful so far and the few conducted experimental investigations have been limited to a narrow range of samples and conditions. This article presents a systematic video‐microscopic study of the swelling induced in various grades of PE particles by the sorption of ethylene and co‐monomers (propylene, 1‐hexene) at condition relevant to gas‐phase polymerization. Based on experimental data for various PE densities, the swelling factor H was evaluated, which enables the prediction of PE swelling by ethylene. The swelling data were compared with the corresponding gravimetrically measured sorption isotherms. In the case of ethylene and propylene sorption, the swelling significantly influences the evaluation of sorption isotherms. Conversely, the effect of swelling was negligible for higher hydrocarbons. The observed impact of swelling on the sorption is discussed based on the evaluated partial molar volumes of penetrants. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45035.
Convenient approach to making nanocomposites based on a chitosan–poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) polymer matrix and a graphene nanofiller
Authors: Kholkhoev Bato Ch. , Bal'zhinov Sergei A. , Makotchenko Viktor G. , Fedorov Vladimir E. , Farion Ivan A. , Kozlova Maria N. , Timashev Petr S. , Burdukovskii Vitalii F.
Published: March 2017

Conducting, mechanically durable, elastic nanocomposite films were prepared with chitosan (CS) as the polymer matrix, graphene obtained from highly exfoliated graphite as the nanofiller, and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) as the stabilizer of the graphene sheets. The maximum graphene content in the composites without a loss of uniformity and other useful properties increased up to 4.0 wt %. The resulting composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, mechanical testing, and electrical conductivity testing to determine the effects of the addition of graphene on the morphology and mechanical and electrical properties of the CS–PVP–graphene nanocomposite films. In this study, we took an approach to making nanocomposites from the perspectives of green chemistry, environmental protection, regenerative medicine, and low cost. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45038.
An Immunohistochemical Approach to Identify the Sex of Young Marine Turtles
Authors: Tezak Boris M. , Guthrie Kathleen , Wyneken Jeanette
Published: March 2017

Marine turtles exhibit temperature‐dependent sex determination (TSD). During critical periods of embryonic development, the nest's thermal environment directs whether an embryo will develop as a male or female. At warmer sand temperatures, nests tend to produce female‐biased sex ratios. The rapid increase of global temperature highlights the need for a clear assessment of its effects on sea turtle sex ratios. However, estimating hatchling sex ratios at rookeries remains imprecise due to the lack of sexual dimorphism in young marine turtles. We rely mainly upon laparoscopic procedures to verify hatchling sex; however, in some species, morphological sex can be ambiguous even at the histological level. Recent studies using immunohistochemical (IHC) techniques identified that embryonic snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) ovaries overexpressed a particular cold‐induced RNA‐binding protein in comparison to testes. This feature allows the identification of females vs. males. We modified this technique to successfully identify the sexes of loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) hatchlings, and independently confirmed the results by standard histological and laparoscopic methods that reliably identify sex in this species. We next tested the CIRBP IHC method on gonad samples from leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea). Leatherbacks display delayed gonad differentiation, when compared to other sea turtles, making hatchling gonads difficult to sex using standard H&E stain histology. The IHC approach was successful in both C. caretta and D. coriacea samples, offering a much‐needed tool to establish baseline hatchling sex ratios, particularly for assessing impacts of climate change effects on leatherback turtle hatchlings and sea turtle demographics. Anat Rec, 300:1512–1518, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pyridinium‐Substituted TetraphenylethyleneEntailing Alkyne Moiety: Enhancement of Photosensitizing Efficiency and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: You Xue , Ma Huili , Wang Yuancheng , Zhang Guanxin , Peng Qian , Liu Libing , Wang Shu , Zhang Deqing
Published: March 2017

Apart from sensing and imaging, luminogens with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) are also interesting for photosensitizing. The photosensitizing behavior and bacteria‐killing performance of a pyridinium‐substituted tetraphenylethylene with an alkyne group (TPE‐A‐Py+) is reported herein. Interestingly, TPE‐A‐Py+ exhibits higher photosensitizing efficiency than TPE‐Py+ (without alkyne group) when I− was used as a counteranion. This is well explained by the fact that the ΔΕST between the excited singlet state (S1) and triplet state (T1) was lower for TPE‐A‐Py+ than for TPE‐Py+, according to theoretical calculations. Moreover, replacement of I− with other anions (PF6−, N(SO2CF3)2− and BPh4−) led to a decrease of photosensitizing efficiency for TPE‐A‐Py+. Notably, TPE‐A‐Py+ could be used as an efficient photosensitizer to photo‐inactivate ampicillin‐resistant (ampr) E. coli at low concentration under white‐light irradiation very quickly.
Magnesium and molecular crowding of the cosolutes stabilize the i‐motif structure at physiological pH
Authors: Saxena Sarika , Joshi Savita , Shankaraswamy J. , Tyagi Shikhar , Kukreti Shrikant
Published: March 2017

Most of the important genomic regions, especially the G,C rich gene promoters, consist of sequences with potential to form G,C‐tetraplexes on both the DNA strands. In this study, we used three C‐rich oligonucleotides (11Py, 21Py, and HTPy), of which 11Py and 21Py are located at various transcriptional regulatory elements of the human genome while HTPy sequence is a C‐rich strand of human telomere sequence. These C‐rich oligonucleotides formed i‐motif structures, verified by Circular Dichroism (CD), UV absorption melting experiments, and native gel electrophoresis. The CD spectra revealed that 11Py and 21Py form i‐motif structures at acidic pH values of 4.5 and 5.7 in the presence of 100 mM NaCl but remain unstructured at pH 7.0. However, 21Py can form stable i‐motif structure even at neutral pH in presence of 1 mM MgCl2. UV‐thermal melting studies showed stabilization of 21Py i‐motif at pH 5.7 in the presence of Na+ or K+ with increasing concentration of MgCl2 or CaCl2 from 1 to 10 mM. Significant shift in the CD peak of HTPy sequence was observed as the positive peak from 286 nm shifted to 276 nm while the negative peak from 265 to 254 nm. Further, inevitable necessity of 1 mM Mg2+ to form i‐motif structure at neutral pH was observed. Under similar ionic conditions and neutral pH, all the three C‐rich sequences were able to form stable i‐motif structures (11Py, 21Py) or altered i‐motif/homoduplex structures (HTPy) in the presence of MgCl2 and cell mimicking molecular crowding conditions of 40 wt% PEG 200. It is concluded that presence of Mg2+ ions and molecular crowding agents induce and stabilize i‐motif structures at physiological solution environment.
Cyanobacterial carbon metabolism: Fluxome plasticity and oxygen dependence
Authors: Wan Ni , DeLorenzo Drew M. , He Lian , You Le , Immethun Cheryl M. , Wang George , Baidoo Edward E. K. , Hollinshead Whitney , Keasling Jay D. , Moon Tae Seok , Tang Yinjie J.
Published: March 2017

Synechocystis sp. strain PCC 6803 has been widely used as a photo‐biorefinery chassis. Based on its genome annotation, this species contains a complete TCA cycle, an Embden‐Meyerhof‐Parnas pathway (EMPP), an oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (OPPP), and an Entner–Doudoroff pathway (EDP). To evaluate how Synechocystis 6803 catabolizes glucose under heterotrophic conditions, we performed 13C metabolic flux analysis, metabolite pool size analysis, gene knockouts, and heterologous expressions. The results revealed a cyclic mode of flux through the OPPP. Small, but non‐zero, fluxes were observed through the TCA cycle and the malic shunt. Independent knockouts of 6‐phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (gnd) and malic enzyme (me) corroborated these results, as neither mutant could grow under dark heterotrophic conditions. Our data also indicate that Synechocystis 6803 metabolism relies upon oxidative phosphorylation to generate ATP from NADPH under dark or insufficient light conditions. The pool sizes of intermediates in the TCA cycle, particularly acetyl‐CoA, were found to be several fold lower in Synechocystis 6803 (compared to E. coli metabolite pool sizes), while its sugar phosphate intermediates were several‐fold higher. Moreover, negligible flux was detected through the native, or heterologous, EDP in the wild type or Δgnd strains under heterotrophic conditions. Comparing photoautotrophic, photomixotrophic, and heterotrophic conditions, the Calvin cycle, OPPP, and EMPP in Synechocystis 6803 possess the ability to regulate their fluxes under various growth conditions (plastic), whereas its TCA cycle always maintains at low levels (rigid). This work also demonstrates how genetic profiles do not always reflect actual metabolic flux through native or heterologous pathways. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1593–1602. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic review of the role of biomarkers in diagnosing anastomotic leakage following colorectal surgery
Authors: Su'a B U , Mikaere H L , Rahiri J L , Bissett I B , Hill A G
Published: March 2017

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) following colorectal surgery can be difficult to diagnose owing to varying clinical presentations. This systematic review aimed to assess biomarkers as potential diagnostic tests for preclinical detection of AL.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. All published studies evaluating biomarkers, both systemic and peritoneal, in the context of AL following colorectal surgery were included. Studies were sought in three electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed and Embase) from January 1990 to June 2016.

Results

Thirty-six studies evaluated 51 different biomarkers in the context of AL after colorectal surgery. Biomarkers included markers of ischaemia and inflammation, and microbiological markers, and were measured in both peritoneal drain fluid and the systemic circulation. The most commonly evaluated peritoneal drain fluid biomarkers were interleukin (IL) 6, IL-10 and tumour necrosis factor. Significantly raised drain levels in the early postoperative period were reported to be associated with the development of AL. C-reactive protein, procalcitonin and leucocytes were the most commonly evaluated systemic biomarkers with significant negative and positive predictive values. Associated area under the curve values ranged from 0·508 to 0·960.

Conclusion

Peritoneal drain fluid and systemic biomarkers are poor predictors of AL after colorectal surgery. Combinations of these biomarkers showed improvement in predictive accuracy.
Incidence and anatomical variations of accessory navicular bone in patients with foot pain: A retrospective radiographic analysis
Authors: Kalbouneh Heba , Alajoulin Omar , Alsalem Mohammad , Humoud Noor , Shawaqfeh Jamil , Alkhoujah Mohammad , Abu‐Hassan Hana , Mahafza Waleed , Badran Darwish
Published: March 2017

The accessory navicular (AN) is an accessory ossicle anatomically located on the medial side of the foot, proximal to the navicular and continuous with the tibialis posterior tendon. It is occasionally a source of pain and local tenderness. Knowledge of the AN and its morphological variations can help identify the source of a patient's symptoms and prevent misinterpreting them as fractures. Foot radiographs from 1,240 patients who presented in two centers with chronic foot pain, or persistent pain developed after trauma, were retrospectively reviewed to determine the incidence and variations of the AN in relation to gender. The AN was found in 20.9% (259/1240). Among 259 feet with AN, Type 1 was identified in 25.4% (66/259), Type 2 in 42.4% (110/259) (20.0% (52/259) Type 2 A and 22.4% (58/259) Type 2B), and Type 3 in 32.0% (83/259). After 13 patients with incomplete medical records had been excluded, the remaining records showed that foot pain was associated with an AN in 10.6% of patients (26/246). In 1.2% of cases, two additional ossicles were found proximal to the navicular, possibly the result of multiple ossification centers that did not unite at the time of development. Patient symptomatology was related to the presence of an AN in 2% of patients with chronic foot pain. The AN could vary morphologically. Our data can enhance our diagnostic skills in detecting these ossicles. Clin. Anat. 30:436–444, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Public narratives on human mobility: Countering technocratic and humanitarian refugee narratives with a “one‐world” solidarity narrative
Authors: Mahendran Kesi
Published: March 2017

This article articulates a one‐world narrative, which reconfigures human mobility in dialogical response to the ideational borders of the European Union. Fifty‐two semi‐structured interviews, in Scotland and Sweden, bring participants, ranging from people with refugee status to the generationally nonmobile, into dialogue with the integration ideals of the European Union. Within this ideational space, participants employ I‐positional dialogical capacities such as “outsideness” and “multivoicedness” to articulate a postnational “one‐world” solidarity narrative (OWN). OWN is revealed as distinct from a posthuman “one‐earth” sustainability narrative, which was found to “border” and delimit mobility. Three dimensions of OWN, (a) borders as constructed; (b) citizen of the world; and (c) accidental nature of existence, together repoliticise depoliticised technocratic reasoning, culturalism, and the asymmetries of humanitarian narratives on refugees. In conclusion, articulating the public's dialogical capacities is key to moving beyond public opinion towards public dialogue on vexed political questions such as immigration.
Follow legal guidance for addressing liability issues arising from student‐athletes' injuries
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: March 2017

There appears to be an emerging trend of lawsuits arising out of injuries to college student‐athletes in practice sessions and competitions. The targets of the lawsuits range from other student‐athletes to coaches, trainers, teams, and universities. Although these types of cases have emerged from time to time in the past, the current wave of concussion‐related litigation and significant monetary settlements provide an interesting backdrop to their recent growth.
A heart within a heart
Authors: Carreras Edward T. , Barghash Maya , Givertz Michael M. , Bhatt Deepak L.
Published: March 2017

A 44‐year‐old man with a history of end‐stage dilated cardiomyopathy status‐post orthotopic cardiac transplant 14 years ago presented for coronary angiography in preparation for re‐operative tricuspid valve replacement. Coronary angiography revealed an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery, with a common coronary trunk arising from the right coronary cusp and bifurcating into right and left main coronary arteries. Interestingly, the right and left coronary arteries coursed to form the shape of a heart, hence, a heart within a heart! © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐Pressure Accelerated Enantioselective Addition of Indoles to Trifluoromethyl Ketones with a Low Loading of Chiral BINOL‐Derived Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Biedrzycki Michał , Kasztelan Adrian , Kwiatkowski Piotr
Published: March 2017

The effect of pressure (up to 10 kbar) on the Brønsted acid catalyzed enantioselective hydroxyalkylation of indoles with trifluoromethyl ketones was explored. The reaction was effectively accelerated at 9 kbar with a very low loading of a 1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol (BINOL) ‐derived phosphoric acid (0.05–0.2 mol % of TRIP) and provided the products with high enantioselectivity (84–98 % ee).
Hydrogen‐Free Gas‐Phase Deoxydehydration of 2,3‐Butanediol to Butene on Silica‐Supported Vanadium Catalysts
Authors: Kwok Kelvin Mingyao , Choong Catherine Kai Shin , Ong Daniel Sze Wei , Ng Joy Chun Qi , Gwie Chuandayani Gunawan , Chen Luwei , Borgna Armando
Published: March 2017

The gas‐phase deoxydehydration of 2,3‐butanediol to butene was investigated in a plug flow reactor over SiO2‐supported vanadium oxide, γ‐alumina, P/ZSM‐5, and MgO catalysts with acid/base sites of varying strengths. 5 wt % vanadium on SiO2 (i.e., 5V/SiO2) showed the best performance with 100 % conversion and up to 45.2 % butene selectivity. The combination of weak acid sites and polymeric VOx surface species provided the 5V/SiO2 catalyst with bifunctional capabilities to achieve both dehydration and transfer hydrogenation, which allowed it to catalyze the deoxydehydration of 2,3‐butanediol to butene even in the absence of H2. As 2,3‐butanediol is a common yet underutilized biomass product, this reaction may provide a viable route for a biomass‐to‐chemicals application for 2,3‐butanediol.
Large Eddy Simulation Investigation of an Industrial Cyclone Separator Fitted with a Pressure Recovery Deswirler
Authors: Misiulia Dzmitry , Andersson Anders Gustav , Lundström Tord Staffan
Published: March 2017

A cyclone fitted with a deswirler of original design has been investigated by means of large eddy simulation. Installation of the deswirler reduces significantly the positive static pressure near the wall as well as the negative static pressure in the central region. It also decreases the maximum tangential velocities in the main separation zone. The deswirler enables a substantial reduction of the backward flow at the gas outlet and a more uniform distribution of the axial velocities at the gas outlet. It also considerably reduces pressure losses in the vortex finder lowering the cyclone pressure drop by almost about one third but it deteriorates the collection efficiency of particles with diameters of less than 8 µm, thus increasing the cut size.
MoS2‐Nanosheet‐Decorated 2D Titanium Carbide (MXene) as High‐Performance Anodes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Yuting , Nie Ping , Jiang Jiangmin , Ding Bing , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: March 2017

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are a promising alternative to lithium‐ion batteries for large‐scale energy storage applications. The intriguing 2D transition‐metal carbides/carbonitrides, also called MXenes, are increasingly being investigated as anodes as for SIB applications, owing to the merits of their metallic conductivity, low diffusion barrier for Na+, and good mechanical properties. However, the issue of low specific capacity has proven to be a difficult challenge to overcome. Herein, we synthesize a composite of MoS2/Ti3C2Tx to improve the ion accessibility of MXene layers by increasing the interlayer space and boost its specific capacity, where the MoS2 nanosheets are intercalated between Ti3C2Tx layers through a hydrothermal route. When tested as a SIB anode, the MoS2/Ti3C2Tx composite yielded a high specific capacity of 250.9 mAh g−1 over 100 cycles. More remarkably, the MoS2/Ti3C2Tx electrode displayed an exceeding rate performance with a capacity of 162.7 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1.
A Miniaturized Flow Injection Analysis System for Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence−Based Assays
Authors: Neves Marta M. P. S. , González‐García María B. , Hernández‐Santos David , Fanjul‐Bolado Pablo
Published: March 2017

A new miniaturized flow injection analysis (FIA) system for developing electrochemiluminescence (ECL)‐based assays is presented. Novel thin‐layer flow−cell (TLFCL) screen‐printed carbon electrodes integrated in one‐channel flow cells were used as the electrode surface. These TLFCL electrodes, combined with miniaturized electrochemical and optical instrumentation, allowed a high degree of automation and simplicity of the assay. The performance of this high‐throughput flow system was corroborated with a proof‐of‐concept centered on H2O2 detection. For that purpose, an ECL transduction chemistry mechanism based on a electrochemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (ECL‐RET) donor−acceptor strategy, between an electro‐oxidized luminophore (luminol) to a fluorophore (fluorescein), in the presence of the analyte of interest, was carried out. The results showed that fluorescein ECL‐RET luminescent response increases the sensitivity of H2O2 detection by up to one order of magnitude, in comparison with a luminol−H2O2 fluorescein‐free assay. All experiments were performed in a decentralized, small‐sized, easy‐to‐use FIA system coupled to ECL detection instrumentation.
Geheimtinten
Authors: Ducci Matthias
Published: March 2017

Es wird die Entwicklung von Geheimtinten von der Antike bis in die Gegenwart exemplarisch beschrieben. Ein besonderer Fokus wird auf Rezepturen gelegt, die in ehemals als geheim eingestuften Dokumenten der CIA aufgeführt sind. Einige ausgewählte Tinten werden einem Praxistest unterzogen. Darüber hinaus werden weitere Geheimtinten vorgestellt, die mit Haushaltsprodukten hergestellt werden können. Abschließend werden aktuelle Forschungsergebnisse zur geheimen Nachrichtenübermittlung präsentiert.
Nickel Phosphide Nanorod Arrays Vertically Grown on Ni Foam as High‐Efficiency Electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Dou Xiandong , Liu Weijun , Liu Qing , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: March 2017

An electrocatalyst of nickel phosphide (Ni2P) nanorod arrays vertically grown on Ni foam composite (NNFC) was prepared successfully using NaH2PO2 as phosphorus source by means of a facile method of in situ phosphorization of Ni foam. The as‐prepared NNFC exhibits excellent HER performance with an onset overpotential of 100 mV, a small Tafel slope of only 55 mV/dec, and a low overpotential involving 200 mV at a current density of 10 mA•cm−2. Furthermore, the electrocatalyst was also demonstrated to possess high stability with a neglectable decrease in activity even after durability test for 25 h.
RNA‐binding proteins of the NXF (nuclear export factor) family and their connection with the cytoskeleton
Authors: Mamon L. A. , Ginanova V. R. , Kliver S. F. , Yakimova A. O. , Atsapkina A. A. , Golubkova E. V.
Published: March 2017

The mutual relationship between mRNA and the cytoskeleton can be seen from two points of view. On the one hand, the cytoskeleton is necessary for mRNA trafficking and anchoring to subcellular domains. On the other hand, cytoskeletal growth and rearrangement require the translation of mRNAs that are connected to the cytoskeleton. β‐actin mRNA localization may influence dynamic changes in the actin cytoskeleton. In the cytoplasm, long‐lived mRNAs exist in the form of RNP (ribonucleoprotein) complexes, where they interact with RNA‐binding proteins, including NXF (Nuclear eXport Factor). Dm NXF1 is an evolutionarily conserved protein in Drosophila melanogaster that has orthologs in different animals. The universal function of nxf1 genes is the nuclear export of different mRNAs in various organisms. In this mini‐review, we briefly discuss the evidence demonstrating that Dm NXF1 fulfils not only universal but also specialized cytoplasmic functions. This protein is detected not only in the nucleus but also in the cytoplasm. It is a component of neuronal granules. Dm NXF1 marks nuclear division spindles during early embryogenesis and the dense body on one side of the elongated spermatid nuclei. The characteristic features of sbr mutants (sbr10 and sbr5) are impairment of chromosome segregation and spindle formation anomalies during female meiosis. sbr12 mutant sterile males with immobile spermatozoa exhibit disturbances in the axoneme, mitochondrial derivatives and cytokinesis. These data allow us to propose that the Dm NXF1 proteins transport certain mRNAs in neurites and interact with localized mRNAs that are necessary for dynamic changes of the cytoskeleton.
Pyrrole‐Based Macrocyclic Small‐Molecule Inhibitors That Target Oocyte Maturation
Authors: Gunasekaran Pethaiah , Lee So‐Rim , Jeong Seung‐Min , Kwon Jeong‐Woo , Takei Toshiki , Asahina Yuya , Bang Geul , Kim Seongnyeon , Ahn Mija , Ryu Eun Kyung , Kim Hak Nam , Nam Ki‐Yub , Shin Song Yub , Hojo Hironobu , Namgoong Suk , Kim Nam‐Hyung , Bang Jeong Kyu
Published: March 2017

Polo‐like kinase 1 (PLK1) plays crucial roles in various stages of oocyte maturation. Recently, we reported that the peptidomimetic compound AB103‐8, which targets the polo box domain (PBD) of PLK1, affects oocyte meiotic maturation and the resumption of meiosis. However, to overcome the drawbacks of peptidic compounds, we designed and synthesized a series of pyrrole‐based small‐molecule inhibitors and tested them for their effects on the rates of porcine oocyte maturation. Among them, the macrocyclic compound (E/Z)‐3‐(2,16‐dioxo‐19‐(4‐phenylbutyl)‐3,19‐diazabicyclo[15.2.1]icosa‐1(20),6,17‐trien‐3‐yl)propyl dihydrogen phosphate (4) showed the highest inhibitory activity with enhanced inhibition against embryonic blastocyst formation. Furthermore, the addition of this compound to culture media efficiently blocked the maturation of porcine and mouse oocytes, indicating its ability to penetrate the zona pellucida and cell membrane. We investigated mouse oocytes treated with compound 4, and the resulting impairment of spindle formation confirmed PLK1 inhibition. Finally, molecular modeling studies with PLK1 PBD also confirmed the presence of significant interactions between compound 4 and PLK1 PBD binding pocket residues, including those in the phosphate, tyrosine‐rich, and pyrrolidine binding pockets. Collectively, these results suggest that the macrocyclic compound 4 may serve as a promising template for the development of novel contraceptive agents.
Fine‐tuning light sensitivity in the starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus) retina: Regional variation in photoreceptor cell morphology and opsin gene expression
Authors: Iwanicki Tom W. , Novales Flamarique Iñigo , Ausiό Juan , Morris Emily , Taylor John S.
Published: March 2017

Vertebrate color vision relies on the differential expression of visual pigment proteins (opsins) in cone photoreceptors of the retina. The diversity of opsins and their retinal expression patterns appear greatest for animals that experience variable light habitats, as is the case with flatfishes. Yet, opsin repertoires and expression patterns in this group of fishes are poorly described. Here, we unveil the visual opsin expression patterns of juvenile starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus) and describe the localization of cone types, their visual pigments and opsin expression. Juvenile starry flounder express eight opsins (Rh1, Sws1, Sws2A1, Sws2A2, Sws2B, Rh2A1, Rh2A2, Lws) and possess a corresponding number of photoreceptor visual pigments, with peak absorbance ranging from 369 to 557 nm. Retinal (vitamin A1) was the only chromophore detected in the retina. Intraretinal variation in opsin abundance consisted of greater expression of both RH2, and lesser expression of SWS1 and both SWS2A, opsin transcripts in the dorsal compared to the ventral retina. Overall cone density was greater in the dorsal retina which was also characterized by a larger proportion of unequal double cones compared with the ventral retina. Together, our results suggest that large opsin repertoires serve to optimize visual function under variable light environments by differential expression of opsin subsets with retinal location.
Optical and Magnetic Properties of Fe Nanoparticles Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser Ablation in Organic and Inorganic Solvents
Authors: Santillán Jesica M. J. , Muñetón Arboleda David , Coral Diego F. , Fernández van Raap Marcela B. , Muraca Diego , Schinca Daniel C. , Scaffardi Lucía B.
Published: March 2017

Magnetic nanoparticles have attracted much interest due to their broad applications in biomedicine and pollutant remediation. In this work, the optical, magnetic, and structural characteristics of colloids produced by ultrashort pulsed laser ablation of a solid Fe target were studied in four different media: HPLC water, an aqueous solution of trisodium citrate, acetone, and ethanol. Optical extinction spectroscopy revealed an absorption band in the UV region for all, in contrast to the results obtained with nanosecond lasers. Micro‐Raman spectroscopy showed that the samples are heterogeneous in their composition, with hematite, maghemite, and magnetite nanoparticles in all four solvents. Similar results were obtained by electron diffraction, which also found α‐Fe. Magnetic properties were studied by vibrating‐sample magnetometry, and showed nanoparticles in the superparamagnetic state. Under certain experimental conditions, submicrometer‐sized iron oxide nanoparticles agglomerate into fractal patterns that show self‐similar properties. Self‐assembled annular structures on the nanometer scale were also observed and are reported for the first time.
Why Are Dithienylethene‐Linked Biscobaltocenes so Hard to Photoswitch?
Authors: Escribano Alejandra , Steenbock Torben , Stork Conrad , Herrmann Carmen , Heck Jürgen
Published: March 2017

The front cover artwork was designed by Torben Steenbock in collaboration with Carmen Herrmann and Jürgen Heck. It shows an underground railway map symbolizing the great variety of excited‐state pathways upon photoexcitation, of which only one leads to the desired target. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cphc.201601146.