bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-sensor data-driven methodology for all-sky passive microwave inundation retrieval
Authors: Takbiri Zeinab , Ebtehaj Ardeshir M. , Foufoula-Georgiou Efi
Published: June 2017

Abstract. We present a multi-sensor Bayesian passive microwave retrieval algorithm for flood inundation mapping at high spatial and temporal resolutions. The algorithm takes advantage of observations from multiple sensors in optical, short-infrared, and microwave bands, thereby allowing for detection and mapping of the sub-pixel fraction of inundated areas under almost all-sky conditions. The method relies on a nearest-neighbor search and a modern sparsity-promoting inversion method that make use of an a priori dataset in the form of two joint dictionaries. These dictionaries contain almost overlapping observations by the Special Sensor Microwave Imager and Sounder (SSMIS) on board the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) F17 satellite and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board the Aqua and Terra satellites. Evaluation of the retrieval algorithm over the Mekong Delta shows that it is capable of capturing to a good degree the inundation diurnal variability due to localized convective precipitation. At longer timescales, the results demonstrate consistency with the ground-based water level observations, denoting that the method is properly capturing inundation seasonal patterns in response to regional monsoonal rain. The calculated Euclidean distance, rank-correlation, and also copula quantile analysis demonstrate a good agreement between the outputs of the algorithm and the observed water levels at monthly and daily timescales. The current inundation products are at a resolution of 12.5 km and taken twice per day, but a higher resolution (order of 5 km and every 3 h) can be achieved using the same algorithm with the dictionary populated by the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) products.
Empirical prediction for travel distance of channelized rock avalanches in the Wenchuan earthquake area
Authors: Zhan Weiwei , Fan Xuanmei , Huang Runqiu , Pei Xiangjun , Xu Qiang , Li Weile
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Rock avalanches are extremely rapid, massive flow-like movements of fragmented rock. The travel path of the rock avalanches may be confined by channels in some cases, which are referred to as channelized rock avalanches. Channelized rock avalanches are potentially dangerous due to their difficult-to-predict travel distance. In this study, we constructed a dataset with detailed characteristic parameters of 38 channelized rock avalanches triggered by the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake using the visual interpretation of remote sensing imagery, field investigation and literature review. Based on this dataset, we assessed the influence of different factors on the runout distance and developed prediction models of the channelized rock avalanches using the multivariate regression method. The results suggested that the movement of channelized rock avalanche was dominated by the landslide volume, total relief and channel gradient. The performance of both models was then tested with an independent validation dataset of eight rock avalanches that were induced by the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, the Ms 7.0 Lushan earthquake and heavy rainfall in 2013, showing acceptable good prediction results. Therefore, the travel-distance prediction models for channelized rock avalanches constructed in this study are applicable and reliable for predicting the runout of similar rock avalanches in other regions.
A case of molar-incisor hypomineralization with genetic and environmental influences
Authors: Kello Erin
Published: June 2017

Background: Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) is a common childhood dental pathology. This paper describes a case with familial involvement and environmental risk factors. Case Description: A 35-year old female has yellowish-brown opacities present on central and lateral maxillary incisors, right and left maxillary canines, right and left maxillary first molars, and right and left maxillary second molars. A 33-year old male sibling has yellowish-brown opacities on the right and left central and lateral maxillary incisors. The male sibling’s fraternal twin does not have evidence of MIH. A maternal grandmother also had evidence of MIH, though involved teeth are not known. Practical Implications: MIH is a condition with both genetic and environmental components. Practitioners should consider both etiologies when patients present with the condition.
From Empire to Independence: Colonial Space in the Writing of Tutuola, Ekwensi, Beti, and Kane
Authors: Krishnan Madhu
Published: June 2017

This article examines the production of space in four early Anglophone and Francophone West African novels, reading Amos Tutuola's The Palm-Wine Drinkard (Nigeria, 1952), Cyprian Ekwensi's People of the City (Nigeria, 1954), Mongo Beti's Mission terminée (Cameroon, 1957), and Cheikh Hamidou Kane's L'Aventure ambiguë (Senegal, 1961) alongside broader social, political, and economic spatial discourses from the 1950s and 1960s. By so doing, the article unpacks the articulated correspondences between literary space and its wider materiality in ways that are both explicit and implicit. Drawing on insights from human geography, this essay explores the extent to which the distinct spatial programs of the British and French empires manifest within Anglophone and Francophone West African writing in the years leading to independence, ultimately arguing that the latter displays a range of discrepant, horizontal formulations in contrast to the more monolithic, vertical spatiality of the latter.
Strategies of Causation in Gichuka
Authors: Mbaka Nelly Karimi , Ireri Humphrey Kirimi
Published: June 2017

The cult of dignity is one of four stages in the development of society (with credit where due to Spencer). It is a devolution from its sister, the cult of honor. Whereas the latter introduces important institutions, the cult of dignity is a transition phase on the way to a normative dignity-based society during which individualism is excessive and its regulation defective where existing. This cult is knowable by the 1) structure of its offices; 2) the expected objective personality of its officers; 3) an ‘us v. them’ mindset, and 4) conduct that presupposes arrogance, narcissism or contempt (for victim, law and/or right).The paper also makes two assertions; first that stewardship rather than ethics is the proper label to describe the normative regulation of offices, and second, that the evolution to a dignity-based culture is the only apparent way to achieve a stewardship outlook that would stem the excesses inherent to the cult of dignity wherever found.
An Expert System for Local Flood Response Coordination and Training
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyin , Moynihan Gary , Ernest Andrew , Gutenson Joseph
Published: June 2017

Flood response is an essential component of flood management to rescue people, reduce property loss, and limit the impact to the environment. Effective flood response depends on a sound coordination structure with unified responsibilities, smooth communications, and scalable response plans. An efficient coordination system, including command and management structures, is built on a thorough understanding of the responsibilities and actions of each role for delivering the response core capabilities. Collecting, sharing, using, and handling the knowledge require great efforts in knowledge management. To further enhance such efforts, an expert system for local flood response coordination and training (LFRS) was developed and introduced in this paper. LFRS can help emergency managers construct scalable, flexible, and adaptable coordination structures and support educating flood response entities, such as individuals, communities, nongovernmental organizations, private sector entities, and local governments. The output of the prototype expert system contains two CSV formatted reports as well as prompt screens. The operational structure report hierarchically depicts the crisscross linkages among all responders, their primary functions, and contact information. Another report summarizes the responsibilities and actions of a certain role of flood responders from commanders to individuals.
14-3-3 Lambda Protein Affects Anthocyanin Production in Arabidopsis thaliana during Drought Stress
Authors: Nabbie Fizal , Smith Jordan , Hnatyshyn Serhiy , Warrack Bethanne , Gu Huidong , Merenich Daniel , Myers Kenneth , Peethambaran Bela
Published: June 2017

Plants evolve to adapt to environmental stresses, including changes at the genetic and molecular levels. For bioengineers to utilize genetic manipulation to build tolerance into crops, a better understanding of the mechanism is needed. Published studies have demonstrated that 14-3-3 Lambda (14-3-3 Lambda) protein affect the phenylpropanoid (Pp) biosynthetic pathway and alters production of flavonoids and downstream compounds of importance for stress tolerance. The 14-3-3 family of proteins binds to many different client proteins and serves as signaling scaffolds. In this study 14-3-3 Lambda knockout mutants were used to investigate changes in metabolite accumulation in the downstream Pp pathway. Amongst them are anthocyanins which are important antioxidants involved in a variety of plant functions including stress response. Investigating how drought stress influenced anthocyanin production identified nodes in the Pp pathway affected by 14-3-3 Lambda. A metabolomics analysis employing high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and metabolomics software was used to identify metabolites in 14-3-3 knockout which changed relative to wild-type A. thaliana (Columbia-0) during drought stress. The metabolites Cy-3-p-coumaurolysinapoylsophoroside-5-diglucoside, 3-caffeoylferuloylsophoroside- 5-succinoylglucoside, 3-caffeoylferuloylsophoroside-5-malonyldiglucoside, 3-feruloylsophoroside-5-succinoyl glucoside, petunidin-3,5-O-diglucoside and malvidin-3-O-p-coumarylmonoglucoside show significant differences in their profiles ranging from 18- to > 500-fold between the Col-0 and 14-3-3 Lambda knockout in wet and dry groups. The findings suggest that 14-3-3 Lambda interacts along the CHS, and CHI nodes, which in turn regulate the downstream production of specific anthocyanins. The interaction of 14-3-3 Lambda with CHS was confirmed using co-immunoprecipitation and co-localization studies. This study supports the hypothesis that manipulation of gene expression of 14-3-3 Lambda can lead to development of drought tolerance in plants.
Field Evaluation and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Detection of Potato Leaf Roll Virus, Potato Virus X and Potato Virus Y in Potato Germplasm
Authors: Anjum Romana , Khan M. Aslam , Olawale Kolawole Oluwaseun , Baber Raheel
Published: June 2017

Polerovirus: potato leaf roll virus (PLRV), Potyvirus: potato virus Y (PVY) and Potexvirus: potato virus X (PVX) is more destructive and well distributed throughout the Pakistan. Incidence has been reported to be as high as 90%, 25%, and ≥ 15%, respectively in the potato growing regions. To find out the source of resistance, twenty-nine virus free potato varieties were grown under field conditions with good agricultural practices. The disease severity of PLRV, PVY and PVX was recorded to determine the level of resistance of the potato varieties according to the disease rating scale. Infectivity and biological assay of all twenty-nine varieties were done in green house on potato, Datura stramonium, Nicotiana glutinosa and Physalis floridana. Non-inoculated plants were served as control. Leaf samples from potato varieties were collected for serological detection of PLRV, PVY and PVX by Double antibody sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (DAS-ELISA). Out of twenty nine varieties, none of the variety was resistant to PLRV although three varieties; Mirrato, 394021-120 and Orla were moderately resistant. Only FD 48-4 and TPS 9813 showed resistance to PVX and PVY. While FD 3-10, FD 9616 and FD 37-13 were moderately to PVX and PVY. Rest of the varieties was found susceptible to all three viruses.
In vitro Assessment of the Antioxidant Effect of Cunila microcephala Benth Infusion (Poejo) on Erythrocytes from Individuals with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Horn Roberta Cattaneo , Mori Natacha Cossettin , De Oliveira Juliana Sorraila , Moreira Paulo Ricardo , Coser Janaina , Zanella Janice De Fatima Pavan , Golle Diego Pascoal , Gelatti Gabriela Tassotti , Salazar Rodrigo Fernando dos Santos
Published: June 2017

The aim of the present study is to investigate in vitro antioxidant activity of Cunila microcephala Benth infusion (Poejo) in erythrocytes from individuals with HIV/AIDS. Erythrocytes were used from seventeen patients of both sexes, with HIV/AIDS, receiving antiretroviral therapy and the control group consisted of erythrocytes of HIV/AIDS free individuals belonging to both sexes. The erythrocytes were treated in vitro for an hour with infusions of Poejo at the following concentrations: 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 g/L After treatment, the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), carbonylated proteins (CPs), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured. A reduction in lipoperoxidation and protein carbonylation was observed after treatment with poejo tea at the concentrations of 5, 10, 25 and 50g/L. In addition, a reduction of GSH at such concentrations was observed. Poejo infusion appears to perform an antioxidant activity in lipid oxidation and in the protein carbonylation found in individuals with HIV/AIDS.
SPECIFICITY OF ORDNANCE SAFETY SUPERVISION IN TIMES OF PEACE AND HYBRID WARFARE
Authors: Terenowski Henryk , Jagiełło Witold
Published: June 2017

Abstract: The article presents an issue of security of munitions (combat assets, explosive ordnance) in different conditions of their use. The safety of the ordnance during peacetime is considered as safe and systematically surveyed use and elimination of factors causing its unintentional activation, and during the military conflicts and hybrid warfare the safety of using the ordnance is considered through the aspects of changeable conditions of use, intentional actions against the sites the ordnance is placed and such its distribution which can minimize the harmful impact of products of explosion to the environment. A question of ordnance left in the result of combat actions is signaled. Questions of safety threatened by using the ordnance for preparing improvised explosive devices are also presented.
AN OVERVIEW OF OPTICAL AND THERMOELECTRICAL SYSTEMS DETECTING MOVEMENT OF COMBUSTION ZONES IN SOLID EXPLOSIVES
Authors: Miszczak Maciej
Published: June 2017

In this contribution author did a general overview of works [1-7], in which he participated, describing non-invasive systems on detection of movement of combustion fronts in solid end-burning explosive materials – rocket propellants and pyrotechnic compositions - inserted into tube combustion chambers. The systems are used to measure linear burning velocity of tested explosives. Detecting systems, the author has contributed to as well, concerned the application of pyrolitic graphite (pyrographite) as structural and sensory material of combustive chambers and one of devices detecting the displacement of the burning front i.e. an IR or VIS camera or thermocouples. The review has been made in the background of other systems using optical detectors [8-12] or thermocouples [13-21].
Rewriting the Code of Life
Authors: Doudna Jennifer A. ,   The National Catholic Bioethics Center
Published: June 2017

DNA encodes the information necessary for life, but sometimes this code also leads to disease. Scientists have long envisioned the ability to change the DNA sequence in cells to correct disease-causing information. A technology known as CRISPR now enables precise rewriting of DNA sequences, offering unparalleled potential for altering the code of life in human beings as well as other organisms. CRISPR technology holds the promise of curing genetic disease and provides methods to reshape the biosphere for the benefit of human societies and the environment. However, along with these enormous opportunities come safety risks and ethical concerns. This article discusses the uses of CRISPR technology, its potential applications, and the actions we must take to prepare for future developments.
Healthier than Healthy
Authors: Austriaco Nicanor Pier Giorgio ,   The National Catholic Bioethics Center
Published: June 2017

How should we morally evaluate protocols to edit the human genome? In this essay, the author argues that the therapy–enhancement distinction commonly used in debates over genetic engineering is not a robust one. Using the example of lipid-lowering pharmacological interventions, he argues that a strong case can be made for the morality of therapeutic enhancements that blur the distinction between therapy and enhancement. He proposes, therefore, that the therapy–enhancement distinction should be replaced by a therapy–nontherapy distinction that acknowledges that some beneficial and morally acceptable therapies are enhancements. However, the benefits–burdens distinction should also be deployed, as it commonly is with other technologies that affect the human person, alongside the therapy–nontherapy distinction, to judge whether a particular technological intervention to edit an individual’s genome should be permitted or not. Gene editing to make patients healthier than healthy should be allowed.
Resisting the Temptation of Perfection
Authors: Tham Joseph ,   The National Catholic Bioethics Center
Published: June 2017

With the advance of CRISPR technology, parents will be tempted to create superior offspring who are healthier, smarter, and stronger. In addition to the fact that many of these procedures are considered immoral for Catholics, they could change human nature in radical and possibly disastrous ways. This article focuses on the question of human perfectionism. First, by considering the relationship between human nature and technology, it analyzes whether such advances can improve human nature in addition to curing diseases. Next, it looks at the moral and spiritual dimensions of perfection by analyzing the cardinal virtues. It argues that seeking perfection in the physical sense alone may not be prudent or wise and may produce greater injustices and weaken the human spirit in the long run. Understanding our true calling to perfection can help us resist the temptation of hubris to enhance the human race through technology.
Editing Out the Embryo
Authors: Jones David Albert ,   The National Catholic Bioethics Center
Published: June 2017

Two conferences on genome editing held in December 2015 offer a lens through which to contrast bioethics policies in the United Kingdom and the United States. The Progress Educational Trust, which has no parallel in the United States, hosted the London conference and illustrates the close collaboration between government departments, scientific bodies, funding organizations, and lobby groups in the United Kingdom. The rhetoric of responsible regulation used in the United Kingdom protects not the embryo, but the practice of embryo destruction, and advocates of embryo experimentation are eager to guide the debate about genome editing. It would be perilous for the international community to allow the United Kingdom to frame the debate in this way.
Caspase-8 contributes to angiogenesis and chemotherapy resistance in glioblastoma
Authors: Fianco Giulia , Mongiardi Maria Patrizia , Levi Andrea , De Luca Teresa , Desideri Marianna , Trisciuoglio Daniela , Del Bufalo Donatella , Cinà Irene , Di Benedetto Anna , Mottolese Marcella , Gentile Antonietta , Centonze Diego , Ferrè Fabrizio , Barilà Daniela
Published: June 2017

Caspase-8 is a key player in extrinsic apoptosis and its activity is often downregulated in cancer. However, human Caspase-8 expression is retained in some tumors, including glioblastoma (GBM), suggesting that it may support cancer growth in these contexts. GBM, the most aggressive of the gliomas, is characterized by extensive angiogenesis and by an inflammatory microenvironment that support its development and resistance to therapies. We have recently shown that Caspase-8 sustains neoplastic transformation in vitro in human GBM cell lines. Here, we demonstrate that Caspase-8, through activation of NF-kB, enhances the expression and secretion of VEGF, IL-6, IL-8, IL-1beta and MCP-1, leading to neovascularization and increased resistance to Temozolomide. Importantly, the bioinformatics analysis of microarray gene expression data derived from a set of high-grade human gliomas, shows that high Caspase-8 expression levels correlate with a worse prognosis.
ER retention is imposed by COPII protein sorting and attenuated by 4-phenylbutyrate
Authors: Ma Wenfu , Goldberg Elena , Goldberg Jonathan
Published: June 2017

Native cargo proteins exit the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in COPII-coated vesicles, whereas resident and misfolded proteins are substantially excluded from vesicles by a retention mechanism that remains unresolved. We probed the ER retention process using the proteostasis regulator 4-phenylbutyrate (4-PBA), which we show targets COPII protein to reduce the stringency of retention. 4-PBA competes with p24 proteins to bind COPII. When p24 protein uptake is blocked, COPII vesicles package resident proteins and an ER-trapped mutant LDL receptor. We further show that 4-PBA triggers the secretion of a KDEL-tagged luminal resident, implying that a compromised retention mechanism causes saturation of the KDEL retrieval system. The results indicate that stringent ER retention requires the COPII coat machinery to actively sort biosynthetic cargo from diffusible misfolded and resident ER proteins.
Comparison of AUDIT and CAGE questionnaires in screening for alcohol use disorders in elderly primary care outpatients
Authors: Clay Steven W.
Published: June 2017

Alcohol use disorders (AUD) can be destructive in the elderly because of drug interactions, higher blood alcohol levels per amount consumed, and limited functional reserve. However, physicians diagnose only about 30% of elderly with AUD. The objective of this study was to screen for AUD in rural elderly family medicine outpatients using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). A survey of all presenting patients aged 65 years or older who consented (N = 93) was done in four family practices in Southeast Ohio. Measurements included the CAGE and AUDIT questionnaires. On the AUDIT, 13 subjects (14.0%), [10 men, 3 women], screened positive for AUD, scoring 5 or more points, and seven subjects (7.5%) [six men, one woman] screened positive for AUD, scoring 8 or more points. On the CAGE, five men (5.4%) but no women screened positive (>2 affirmatives). The prevalence of AUD found in this survey (5.4% to 14.0%) is consistent with previous studies. Based on these findings, the AUDIT may be a useful screening instrument in the elderly population.
Comparing psychotic and affective disorders by musculoskeletal structural examination
Authors: PharmD, Jan Lei Iwata, , Rodos J. Jerry Rodos , Glonek Thomas , Habenight Ann L.
Published: June 2017

Groups of hospitalized patients with psychotic and affective disorders (N = 60) underwent musculoskeletal structural examination. Psychotic and affective disorders each tend to affect a different portion of the musculoskeletal system, with psychotic patients exhibiting increased musculoskeletal dysfunction in the lower extremities and affective-disorders patients exhibiting increased cervical and thoracic dysfunction. At the clinical level, the structural examination may be us~d to correlate psychiatric disorders with dysfunctional regions of the musculoskeletal system.
Characteristics of the initial stage and return stroke currents of rocket‐triggered lightning flashes in southern China
Authors: Zheng Dong , Zhang Yijun , Zhang Yang , Lu Weitao , Yan Xu , Chen Shaodong , Xu Liangtao , Huang Zhigang , You Jin , Zhang Rong , Su Zhiguo
Published: June 2017

This study investigates the initial stage (IS) and return stroke (RS) currents of 50 triggered lightning flashes (TLFs) that were conducted in southern China. The IS of the negative TLFs has a longer duration and larger average current, charge transfer, and action integral than those reported elsewhere, with geometric means (GMs) of 347.9 ms, 132.5 A, 45.1 C, and 10.0 × 103 A2 s, respectively. Two positive TLFs containing no RS have much greater average currents, charge transfers, and action integrals in the IS when compared with the negative TLFs. The RS has a greater peak current (17.2 kA; GM, same to below), charge transfer within 1 ms (1.3 C), and action integral within 1 ms (5.8 × 103 A2 s), and shorter 10% to 90% rise time (0.4 μs) than elsewhere. The peak current is prominently correlated with the rate of rise, charge transfer within 1 ms, and action integral within 1 ms. Furthermore, when the total duration of the RS and any following continuing currents is longer than 40 ms, the peak current, charge transfer within 1 ms, and action integral within 1 ms of the RS are seldom greater than 25 kA, 2.6 C, and 15 × 103 A2 s, respectively. It is indicated that TLFs containing RSs tend to have a longer duration but a smaller charge transfer during the IS than those without RS. The peak current of the RS is weakly correlated with its preceding silence period when there was no channel base current.
Production of cationic dyeable poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibers via nanotechnology
Authors: Tavanaie Mohammad Ali , Dastjerdi Roya , Sepehrian Nazanin , Ghasami Alireza
Published: June 2017

Nano‐titanium oxide/nano‐zinc oxide/poly(ethylene terephthalate) (nano‐TiO2/nano‐ZnO/PET) nanocomposite fibers were successfully prepared by a laboratory‐scale melt spinning process. The properties of pure and modified PET fibers including tensile (tenacity and elongation at break) and thermal properties, and the dyeability properties of cationic dyes with and without carrier were studied. The modified PET nanocomposite fiber containing 0.15 wt% nano‐titanium dioxide and 0.15 wt% nano‐zinc oxide showed the best cationic dye adsorption property, excellent washing fastness and good light fastness. Also, a significant effect on the dye adsorption of modified PET fibers was observed at boiling temperature due to the presence of carrier agent.
Effect of Electron‐Transport Material on Light‐Induced Degradation of Inverted Planar Junction Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Akbulatov Azat F. , Frolova Lyubov A. , Griffin Monroe P. , Gearba Ioana R. , Dolocan Andrei , Vanden Bout David A. , Tsarev Sergey , Katz Eugene A. , Shestakov Alexander F. , Stevenson Keith J. , Troshin Pavel A.
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a systematic study of the influence of electron‐transport materials on the operation stability of the inverted perovskite solar cells under both laboratory indoor and the natural outdoor conditions in the Negev desert. It is shown that all devices incorporating a Phenyl C61 Butyric Acid Methyl ester ([60]PCBM) layer undergo rapid degradation under illumination without exposure to oxygen and moisture. Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiling reveals that volatile products from the decomposition of methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) films diffuse through the [60]PCBM layer, go all the way toward the top metal electrode, and induce its severe corrosion with the formation of an interfacial AgI layer. On the contrary, alternative electron‐transport material based on the perylendiimide derivative provides good isolation for the MAPbI3 films preventing their decomposition and resulting in significantly improved device operation stability. The obtained results strongly suggest that the current approach to design inverted perovskite solar cells should evolve with respect to the replacement of the commonly used fullerene‐based electron‐transport layers with other types of materials (e.g., functionalized perylene diimides). It is believed that these findings pave a way toward substantial improvements in the stability of the perovskite solar cells, which are essential for successful commercialization of this photovoltaic technology.
Chimpanzee ankle and foot joint kinematics: Arboreal versus terrestrial locomotion
Authors: Holowka Nicholas B. , O'Neill Matthew C. , Thompson Nathan E. , Demes Brigitte
Published: June 2017

Objectives

Many aspects of chimpanzee ankle and midfoot joint morphology are believed to reflect adaptations for arboreal locomotion. However, terrestrial travel also constitutes a significant component of chimpanzee locomotion, complicating functional interpretations of chimpanzee and fossil hominin foot morphology. Here we tested hypotheses of foot motion and, in keeping with general assumptions, we predicted that chimpanzees would use greater ankle and midfoot joint ranges of motion during travel on arboreal supports than on the ground.

Methods

We used a high‐speed motion capture system to measure three‐dimensional kinematics of the ankle and midfoot joints in two male chimpanzees during three locomotor modes: terrestrial quadrupedalism on a flat runway, arboreal quadrupedalism on a horizontally oriented tree trunk, and climbing on a vertically oriented tree trunk.

Results

Chimpanzees used relatively high ankle joint dorsiflexion angles during all three locomotor modes, although dorsiflexion was greatest in arboreal modes. They used higher subtalar joint coronal plane ranges of motion during terrestrial and arboreal quadrupedalism than during climbing, due in part to their use of high eversion angles in the former. Finally, they used high midfoot inversion angles during arboreal locomotor modes, but used similar midfoot sagittal plane kinematics across all locomotor modes.

Discussion

The results indicate that chimpanzees use large ranges of motion at their various ankle and midfoot joints during both terrestrial and arboreal locomotion. Therefore, we argue that chimpanzee foot anatomy enables a versatile locomotor repertoire, and urge caution when using foot joint morphology to reconstruct arboreal behavior in fossil hominins.
Thermodynamics and structure of liquid surfaces investigated directly with surface analytical tools**
Authors: Andersson Gunther , Morgner Harald
Published: June 2017

Measuring directly the composition, the distribution of constituents as function of the depth and the orientation of molecules at liquid surfaces is essential for determining physicochemical properties of liquid surfaces. While the experimental tools that have been developed for analyzing solid surfaces can in principal be applied to liquid surfaces, it turned out that they had to be adjusted to the particular challenges imposed by liquid samples, e.g. by the unavoidable vapor pressure and by the mobility of the constituting atoms/molecules. In the present work it is shown, how electron spectroscopy and ion scattering spectroscopy have been used for analyzing liquid surfaces. The emphasis of this review is on using the structural information gained for determining the physicochemical properties of liquid surfaces.
Switching Between Giant Positive and Negative Thermal Expansions of a YFe(CN)6‐based Prussian Blue Analogue Induced by Guest Species
Authors: Gao Qilong , Chen Jun , Sun Qiang , Chang Dahu , Huang Qingzhen , Wu Hui , Sanson Andrea , Milazzo Ruggero , Zhu He , Li Qiang , Liu Zhanning , Deng Jinxia , Xing Xianran
Published: June 2017

The control of thermal expansion of solid compounds is intriguing but remains challenging. The effect of guests on the thermal expansion of open‐framework structures was investigated. Notably, the presence of guest ions (K+) and molecules (H2O) can substantially switch thermal expansion of YFe(CN)6 from negative (αv=−33.67×10−6 K−1) to positive (αv=+42.72×10−6 K−1)—a range that covers the thermal expansion of most inorganic compounds. The mechanism of such substantial thermal expansion switching is revealed by joint studies with synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray absorption fine structure, neutron powder diffraction, and density functional theory calculations. The presence of guest ions or molecules plays a critical damping effect on transverse vibrations, thus inhibiting negative thermal expansion. An effective method is demonstrated to control the thermal expansion in open‐framework materials by adjusting the presence of guests.
The First Step of the Oxidation of Elemental Sulfur: Crystal Structure of the Homopolyatomic Sulfur Radical Cation [S8].+
Authors: Derendorf Janis , Jenne Carsten , Keßler Mathias
Published: June 2017

The oxidation of elemental sulfur in superacidic solutions and melts is one of the oldest topics in inorganic main group chemistry. Thus far, only three homopolyatomic sulfur cations ([S4]2+, [S8]2+, and [S19]2+) have been characterized crystallographically although ESR investigations have given evidence for the presence of at least two additional homopolyatomic sulfur radical cations in solution. Herein, the crystal structure of the hitherto unknown homopolyatomic sulfur radical cation [S8].+ is presented. The radical cation [S8].+ represents the first step of the oxidation of the S8 molecule present in elemental sulfur. It has a structure similar to the known structure of [S8]2+, but the transannular sulfur⋅⋅⋅sulfur contact is significantly elongated. Quantum‐chemical calculations help in understanding its structure and support its presence in solution as a stable compound. The existence of [S8].+ is also in accord with previous ESR investigations.
Structural Basis for Expansion of the Genetic Alphabet with an Artificial Nucleobase Pair
Authors: Betz Karin , Kimoto Michiko , Diederichs Kay , Hirao Ichiro , Marx Andreas
Published: June 2017

Hydrophobic artificial nucleobase pairs without the ability to pair through hydrogen bonds are promising candidates to expand the genetic alphabet. The most successful nucleobase surrogates show little similarity to each other and their natural counterparts. It is thus puzzling how these unnatural molecules are processed by DNA polymerases that have evolved to efficiently work with the natural building blocks. Here, we report structural insight into the insertion of one of the most promising hydrophobic unnatural base pairs, the dDs–dPx pair, into a DNA strand by a DNA polymerase. We solved a crystal structure of KlenTaq DNA polymerase with a modified template/primer duplex bound to the unnatural triphosphate. The ternary complex shows that the artificial pair adopts a planar structure just like a natural nucleobase pair, and identifies features that might hint at the mechanisms accounting for the lower incorporation efficiency observed when processing the unnatural substrates.
β‐Co(OH)2 Nanosheets: A Superior Pseudocapacitive Electrode for High‐Energy Supercapacitors
Authors: Ulaganathan Mani , Maharjan Mr. Makhan , Yan Qingyu , Aravindan Vanchiappan , Madhavi Srinivasan
Published: June 2017

In this work, β‐Co(OH)2 nanosheets are explored as efficient pseudocapacitive materials for the fabrication of 1.6 V class high‐energy supercapacitors in asymmetric fashion. The as‐synthesized β‐Co(OH)2 nanosheets displayed an excellent electrochemical performance owing to their unique structure, morphology, and reversible reaction kinetics (fast faradic reaction) in both the three‐electrode and asymmetric configuration (with activated carbon, AC). For example, in the three‐electrode set‐up, β‐Co(OH)2 exhibits a high specific capacitance of ∼675 F g−1 at a scan rate of 1 mV s−1. In the asymmetric supercapacitor, the β‐Co(OH)2∥AC cell delivers a maximum energy density of 37.3 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 800 W kg−1. Even at harsh conditions (8 kW kg−1), an energy density of 15.64 Wh kg−1 is registered for the β‐Co(OH)2∥AC assembly. Such an impressive performance of β‐Co(OH)2 nanosheets in the asymmetric configuration reveals the emergence of pseudocapacitive electrodes towards the fabrication of high‐energy electrochemical charge storage systems.
Amorphous Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles as Active Water‐Oxidation Catalysts
Authors: Chen Zheng , Duan Zhiyao , Wang Zhiliang , Liu Xiaoyan , Gu Lin , Zhang Fuxiang , Dupuis Michel , Li Can
Published: June 2017

Artificial photosynthesis requires the practical use of efficient, robust, and economical water‐oxidation catalysts (WOCs) for chemical‐fuel production. The synthesis of amorphous cobalt oxide nanoparticles (ca. 2 nm) is reported as a WOC with a turnover frequency up to 8.6 s−1 in the photocatalytic Ru(bpy)32+–Na2S2O8 system (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridyl). This activity is unprecedented in heterogeneous cobalt‐based WOCs and is even comparable to that of a state‐of‐the‐art homogeneous cobalt‐based polyoxometalate catalyst. With the help of experimental and computational X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, the atomic structure of the synthesized amorphous cobalt oxide nanoparticles was characterized, and it consists of a one‐dimensional chain of dimeric edge‐sharing CoO6 octahedra. Theoretical calculations suggest that this structure was able to promote O−O bond coupling, unlike crystalline cobalt oxide WOCs, which led to the enhanced water‐oxidation activity.
A Surprising Failure Mechanism in Symmetric Supercapacitors at High Voltages
Authors: Borenstein Arie , Attias Ran , Hanna Ortal , Luski Shalom , Kaner Richard B. , Aurbach Doron
Published: June 2017

Ionic liquids (ILs) are attractive candidates for high‐voltage electrochemical energy storage systems, owing to their high electrochemical stability. Recently, a unique eutectic mixture of ILs was reported to demonstrate outstanding performance in supercapacitor systems at low temperatures. Yet, many publications using this or similar IL mixtures reported only a limited voltage or cyclability when utilizing them with practical activated carbon electrodes. With supercapacitors consisting of symmetric electrodes, in which voltages higher than 3 V are applied, fast capacity fading and activity termination are observed. In order to exceed the limit of 3 V for supercapacitors that use electrolyte solutions possessing wide electrochemical windows, we thoroughly investigated the (unexpected) failure mechanism, using several analytical methods. This is the most important aspect of the paper. By this, we discovered a pronounced difference in the electrochemical behavior of the negative and the positive electrodes, which has significant implications on the operation of full symmetric cells at high voltages. Finally, we propose a solution that enables stable operation of cells up to 3.4 V. By balancing the mass of the electrodes, we prevent high‐voltage failure and control the voltage split to use the full electrochemical window of each electrode and obtain a higher cell voltage of 3.4 V and an energy density higher than 40 Wh/kg (of the electrode materials). The most important aspect of this work was a rigorous study of the failure mechanism.
Self‐Assembly of Cyclohelicate [M3L3] Triangles Over [M4L4] Squares, Despite Near‐Linear Bis‐terdentate L and Octahedral M
Authors: Hogue Ross W. , Dhers Sébastien , Hellyer Ryan M. , Luo Jingwei , Hanan Garry S. , Larsen David S. , Garden Anna L. , Brooker Sally
Published: June 2017

Self‐assembly of 1:1:2 MII(BF4)2 (M=Zn or Fe), pyrazine‐2,5‐dicarbaldehyde (1) and 2‐(2‐aminoethyl)pyridine gave trimetallic triangle architectures rather than the anticipated tetrametallic [2×2] squares. Options for the nontrivial synthesis of 1 are considered, and synthetic details provided for both preferred routes. Rare cyclohelicate triangle architectures are observed for the pair of structurally characterized yellow‐brown [Zn3L3](BF4)6 and dark green [Fe3L3](BF4)6 complexes of the neutral bis‐terdentate Schiff base L. In order to form these pyrazine‐edged triangles, the octahedral metal ions—with all 6 N‐donors provided by the terdentate binding pockets of two L—are located 0.4–0.5 Å out of the plane of the bridging pyrazines, towards the center of the triangle. Density functional theory calculations confirm that simple particle counting entropic arguments, which predict triangles over squares, are correct here, with the triangles shown to be energetically favored over the corresponding squares. However, importantly, DFT analysis of these and related triangle versus square systems also show that vibrational contributions to entropy dominate and may significantly influence the preferred architecture, such that simple particle counting cannot in general be reliably employed to predict the observed architecture.
Conspecific density dependence and community structure: Insights from 11 years of monitoring in an old‐growth temperate forest in Northeast China
Authors: Kuang Xu , Zhu Kai , Yuan Zuoqiang , Lin Fei , Ye Ji , Wang Xugao , Wang Yunyun , Hao Zhanqing
Published: June 2017

Forest community structure may be influenced by seedling density dependence, however, the effect is loosely coupled with population dynamics and diversity in the short term. In the long term the strength of conspecific density dependence may fluctuate over time because of seedling abundance, yet few long‐term studies exist. Based on 11 years of seedling census data and tree census data from a 25‐ha temperate forest plot in Northeast China, we used generalized linear mixed models to test the relative effects of local neighborhood density and abiotic factors on seedling density and seedling survival. Spatial point pattern analysis was used to determine if spatial patterns of saplings and juveniles, in relation to conspecific adults, were in accordance with patterns uncovered by conspecific negative density dependence at the seedling stage. Our long‐term results showed that seedling density was mainly positively affected by conspecific density, suggesting dispersal limitation of seedling development. The probability of seedling survival significantly decreased over 1 year with increasing conspecific density, indicating conspecific negative density dependence in seedling establishment. Although there was variation in conspecific negative density dependence at the seedling stage among species and across years, a dispersed pattern of conspecific saplings relative to conspecific adults at the local scale (<10 m) was observed in four of the 11 species examined. Overall, sapling spatial patterns were consistent with the impacts of conspecific density on seedling dynamics, which suggests that conspecific negative density dependence is persistent over the long term. From the long‐term perspective, conspecific density dependence is an important driver of species coexistence in temperate forests.
Bayesian joint models with INLA exploring marine mobile predator–prey and competitor species habitat overlap
Authors: Sadykova Dinara , Scott Beth E. , De Dominicis Michela , Wakelin Sarah L. , Sadykov Alexander , Wolf Judith
Published: June 2017

Understanding spatial physical habitat selection driven by competition and/or predator–prey interactions of mobile marine species is a fundamental goal of spatial ecology. However, spatial counts or density data for highly mobile animals often (1) include excess zeros, (2) have spatial correlation, and (3) have highly nonlinear relationships with physical habitat variables, which results in the need for complex joint spatial models. In this paper, we test the use of Bayesian hierarchical hurdle and zero‐inflated joint models with integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA), to fit complex joint models to spatial patterns of eight mobile marine species (grey seal, harbor seal, harbor porpoise, common guillemot, black‐legged kittiwake, northern gannet, herring, and sandeels). For each joint model, we specified nonlinear smoothed effect of physical habitat covariates and selected either competing species or predator–prey interactions. Out of a range of six ecologically important physical and biologic variables that are predicted to change with climate change and large‐scale energy extraction, we identified the most important habitat variables for each species and present the relationships between these bio/physical variables and species distributions. In particular, we found that net primary production played a significant role in determining habitat preferences of all the selected mobile marine species. We have shown that the INLA method is well‐suited for modeling spatially correlated data with excessive zeros and is an efficient approach to fit complex joint spatial models with nonlinear effects of covariates. Our approach has demonstrated its ability to define joint habitat selection for both competing and prey–predator species that can be relevant to numerous issues in the management and conservation of mobile marine species.
Chromosomal distribution of interstitial telomeric sequences as signs of evolution through chromosome fusion in six species of the giant water bugs (Hemiptera,Belostoma)
Authors: Chirino Mónica G. , Dalíková Martina , Marec František R. , Bressa María J.
Published: June 2017

Tandem arrays ofTTAGGrepeats show a highly conserved location at the telomeres across the phylogenetic tree of arthropods. In giant water bugsBelostoma, the chromosome number changed during speciation by fragmentation of the single ancestral X chromosome, resulting in a multiple sex chromosome system. Several autosome–autosome fusions and a fusion between the sex chromosome pair and an autosome pair resulted in the reduced number in several species. We mapped the distribution of telomeric sequences and interstitial telomeric sequences (ITSs) inBelostoma candidulum(2n = 12 + XY/XX; male/female),B. dentatum(2n = 26 + X1X2Y/X1X1X2X2),B. elegans(2n = 26 + X1X2Y/X1X1X2X2),B. elongatum(2n = 26 + X1X2Y/X1X1X2X2),B. micantulum(2n = 14 + XY/XX), andB. oxyurum(2n = 6 + XY/XX) byFISHwith the (TTAGG)nprobes. Hybridization signals confirmed the presence ofTTAGGrepeats in the telomeres of all species examined. The three species with reduced chromosome numbers showed additional hybridization signals in interstitial positions, indicating the occurrence ofITS. From the comparison of all species here analyzed, we observed inverse relationships between chromosome number and chromosome size, and between presence/absence ofITSand chromosome number. TheITSdistribution between these closely related species supports the hypothesis that several telomere–telomere fusions of the chromosomes from an ancestral diploid chromosome number 2n = 26 + XY/XXplayed a major role in the karyotype evolution ofBelostoma. Consequently, our study provide valuable features that can be used to understand the karyotype evolution, may contribute to a better understanding of taxonomic relationships, and also elucidate the high plasticity of nuclear genomes at the chromosomal level during the speciation processes.
Seasonal variation in basal and plastic cold tolerance: Adaptation is influenced by both long‐ and short‐term phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Noh Suegene , Everman Elizabeth R. , Berger Christopher M. , Morgan Theodore J.
Published: June 2017

Understanding how thermal selection affects phenotypic distributions across different time scales will allow us to predict the effect of climate change on the fitness of ectotherms. We tested how seasonal temperature variation affects basal levels of cold tolerance and two types of phenotypic plasticity in Drosophila melanogaster. Developmental acclimation occurs as developmental stages of an organism are exposed to seasonal changes in temperature and its effect is irreversible, while reversible short‐term acclimation occurs daily in response to diurnal changes in temperature. We collected wild flies from a temperate population across seasons and measured two cold tolerance metrics (chill‐coma recovery and cold stress survival) and their responses to developmental and short‐term acclimation. Chill‐coma recovery responded to seasonal shifts in temperature, and phenotypic plasticity following both short‐term and developmental acclimation improved cold tolerance. This improvement indicated that both types of plasticity are adaptive, and that plasticity can compensate for genetic variation in basal cold tolerance during warmer parts of the season when flies tend to be less cold tolerant. We also observed a significantly stronger trade‐off between basal cold tolerance and short‐term acclimation during warmer months. For the longer‐term developmental acclimation, a trade‐off persisted regardless of season. A relationship between the two types of plasticity may provide additional insight into why some measures of thermal tolerance are more sensitive to seasonal variation than others.