bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐Eddy Simulation of a katabatic jet along a convexly curved slope: 2. Evidence of Görtler vortices
Authors: Brun Christophe
Published: May 2017

This paper is the second part of a study of katabatic jet along a convexly curved slope with a maximum angle of about 35.5°. Large‐Eddy Simulation (LES) is performed with a special focus on the outer‐layer shear of the katabatic jet. In the first part, a basic statistical quantitative analysis of the flow was performed. Here a qualitative and quantitative description of vortical structures is used to gain insight in the present 3‐D turbulent flow. It is shown that Görtler vortices oriented in the streamwise downslope direction develop in the shear layer. They spread with a specific mushroom shape in the vertical direction up to about 100 m height. They play a main role with respect to local turbulent mixing in the ground surface boundary layer. The present curved slope configuration constitutes a realistic model for alpine orography. This paper provides a procedure based on local turbulence anisotropy to track Görtler vortices for in situ measurements, which has never been proposed in the literature.
Formation mechanisms for self‐organized kilometer‐scale shoreline sand waves
Authors: Falqués Albert , Ribas Francesca , Idier Déborah , Arriaga Jaime
Published: May 2017

The feedbacks between morphology and waves through sediment transport are investigated as a source of kilometer‐scale shoreline sand waves. In particular, the observed sand waves along Srd. Holmslands Tange, Denmark, are examined. We use a linear stability model based on the one‐line approximation, linking the bathymetry to the perturbed shoreline. Previous models that consider the link by shifting the equilibrium profile and neglecting the curvature of the depth contours predict a positive feedback only if the offshore wave incidence angle (θc) is above a threshold, θc≃42°. Considering curvilinear depth contours and using a linearly decaying perturbation in bed level, we find that θc can vary over the range 0–90° depending on the background bathymetric profile and the depth of closure, Dc. Associated to the perturbed wave refraction, there are two sources of instability: the alongshore gradients in wave angle, wave angle mechanism, and the alongshore gradients in wave energy induced by wave crest stretching, wave energy mechanism. The latter are usually destabilizing, but the former are destabilizing only for large enough Dc, steep foreshores, and gently sloping shorefaces. The critical angle comes out from the competition between both mechanisms, but when both are destabilizing, θc=0. In contrast with earlier studies, the model predicts instability for the Holmslands Tange coast so that the observed sand waves could have emerged from such instability. The key point is considering a larger Dc that is reasonably supported by both observations and wave climate, which brings the wave angle mechanism near the destabilizing threshold.
Bed load transport and boundary roughness changes as competing causes of hysteresis in the relationship between river discharge and seismic amplitude recorded near a steep mountain stream
Authors: Roth Danica L. , Finnegan Noah J. , Brodsky Emily E. , Rickenmann Dieter , Turowski Jens M. , Badoux Alexandre , Gimbert Florent
Published: May 2017

Hysteresis in the relationship between bed load transport and river stage is a well‐documented phenomenon with multiple known causes. Consequently, numerous studies have interpreted hysteresis in the relationship between seismic ground motion near rivers and some measure of flow strength (i.e., discharge or stage) as the signature of bed load transport. Here we test this hypothesis in the Erlenbach stream (Swiss Prealps) using a metric to quantitatively compare hysteresis in seismic data with hysteresis recorded by geophones attached beneath steel plates within the streambed, a well‐calibrated proxy for direct sediment transport measurements. We find that while both the geophones and seismometers demonstrate hysteresis, the magnitude and direction of hysteresis are not significantly correlated between these data, indicating that the seismic signal at this site is primarily reflecting hysteresis in processes other than sediment transport. Seismic hysteresis also does not correlate significantly with the magnitude of sediment transport recorded by the geophones, contrary to previous studies' assumptions. We suggest that hydrologic sources and changes in water turbulence, for instance due to evolving boundary conditions at the bed, rather than changes in sediment transport rates, may sometimes contribute to or even dominate the hysteresis observed in seismic amplitudes near steep mountain rivers.
Altitude‐dependent influence of snow cover on alpine land surface phenology
Authors: Xie Jing , Kneubühler Mathias , Garonna Irene , Notarnicola Claudia , De Gregorio Ludovica , De Jong Rogier , Chimani Barbara , Schaepman Michael E.
Published: May 2017

Snow cover impacts alpine land surface phenology in various ways, but our knowledge about the effect of snow cover on alpine land surface phenology is still limited. We studied this relationship in the European Alps using satellite‐derived metrics of snow cover phenology (SCP), namely, first snow fall, last snow day, and snow cover duration (SCD), in combination with land surface phenology (LSP), namely, start of season (SOS), end of season, and length of season (LOS) for the period of 2003–2014. We tested the dependency of interannual differences (Δ) of SCP and LSP metrics with altitude (up to 3000 m above sea level) for seven natural vegetation types, four main climatic subregions, and four terrain expositions. We found that 25.3% of all pixels showed significant (p < 0.05) correlation between ΔSCD and ΔSOS and 15.3% between ΔSCD and ΔLOS across the entire study area. Correlations between ΔSCD and ΔSOS as well as ΔSCD and ΔLOS are more pronounced in the northern subregions of the Alps, at high altitudes, and on north and west facing terrain—or more generally, in regions with longer SCD. We conclude that snow cover has a greater effect on alpine phenology at higher than at lower altitudes, which may be attributed to the coupled influence of snow cover with underground conditions and air temperature. Alpine ecosystems may therefore be particularly sensitive to future change of snow cover at high altitudes under climate warming scenarios.
Editorial: Thanking the JGR Space Physics reviewers of 2016
Authors: Liemohn Michael W. , Wang Yuming , Rodger Alan , Kepko Larry , Balikhin Michael
Published: May 2017

The Journal of Geophysical Research Space Physics Editors wish to whole‐heartedly thank the 1602 scientists that invested their time, expertise, and effort in service to the journal and the research community by conducting 3997 reviews in 2016.
Della Proteins: Master Regulators of Gibberellin‐Responsive Growth and Development
Authors: Thomas Stephen G. , Blázquez Miguel A. , Alabadí David
Published: May 2017

In flowering plants, DELLA proteins (DELLAs) have emerged as the master transcriptional regulators that are responsible for repressing all aspects of gibberellin (GA)‐dependent growth and development. Although we now have a good understanding of how GAs relieve the growth repression exerted by DELLAs, our understanding of the mechanisms through which these proteins act has only started to emerge in the last few years. It has become apparent that DELLAs physically associate with a myriad of proteins, including transcription factors, altering their activities and promoting the transcriptional changes that control GA‐responsive growth and development. Fascinatingly, the role of DELLAs does not appear to revolve exclusively around transcriptional control, with a recent report demonstrating that they are directly involved in the reorientation of microtubules in the
Arabidopsis
hypocotyl. These recent observations add a further dimension to a remarkable class of regulatory proteins.
Interactions Between Gibberellins and Other Hormones
Authors: Ross John J. , Miraghazadeh Asemeh , Beckett Amelia H. , Quittenden Laura J. , McAdam Erin L.
Published: May 2017

In this chapter we discuss interactions between the gibberellins (GAs) and other plant hormones. Auxin and ethylene exert strong effects on GA levels, and at least some of the physiological responses to auxin are mediated by increased GA content. Abscisic acid (ABA) and GA appear to negatively regulate each other's levels in seeds, consistent with their antagonistic effects on germination. It has been suggested that several non‐GA hormones affect the stability of DELLAs, the key signalling proteins that are destabilised by GAs. However, it appears that the reported effects of these additional hormones on DELLA stability are either mediated by changes in GA content, or have not yet been confirmed. Recent papers provide evidence that DELLAs physically interact with transcriptional regulators from the signalling pathways of the brassinosteroids, ethylene, jasmonic acid and ABA. This may represent a physiologically significant way in which GAs interact with other signalling pathways, and helps to explain how DELLAs, which lack a conserved DNA binding domain, can regulate gene transcription.
Gibberellins and Plant Reproduction
Authors: Plackett Andrew R.G. , Wilson Zoe A.
Published: May 2017

The involvement of the phytohormone gibberellin (GA) in land plant reproductive processes is ancient, but is best understood in flowering plants (angiosperms). GA acts in angiosperms to promote the transition from vegetative to reproductive development, and subsequent development of both male (stamen) and female (pistil) floral organs. Coordinating growth between these organs to promote successful fertilisation is a key regulatory function of GA. Its functions in female development are not well understood, but in stamens a number of downstream regulatory pathways have been determined. GA signalling directly regulates processes both in pollen development and in the surrounding anther tissues, particularly the tapetum. Female fertility also requires GA, which, while incompletely understood, regulates both pistil and ovule development. GA is a crucial trigger of fruit development upon fertilisation, and subsequently contributes to both the development of viable seeds and of fruiting structures.
Septic Arthritis in Emergency Departments in the US: A National Study of Health Care Utilization and Time Trends
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A. , Yu Shaohua
Published: May 2017

Objective

To assess the health care utilization and emergency department (ED) charges for septic arthritis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of ED visits with septic arthritis as the primary diagnosis using the US Nationwide Emergency Department Sample data from 2009–2012. We examined ED charges, hospitalization, and associated time trends. Multivariable models were adjusted for demographics (age, sex, insurance status, residence, and household income), comorbidity, and hospital characteristics to assess factors associated with ED charges and hospitalization.

Results

Septic arthritis was responsible for 16,382 ED visits in 2012 in the US, which constituted 0.01% of all ED visits. The number of ED visits was stable from 2009–2012. Total ED charges were $34.6, $30.6, and $36.9 million in 2009, 2010, and 2012, respectively, and mean ED charges were $2,149, $1,866, and $2,257, respectively. The majority of the patients with an ED visit for septic arthritis were hospitalized: 82%, 83%, and 84% in 2009, 2010, and 2012, respectively. Metropolitan residence and western US location were associated with higher ED charges, and the highest income quartile, renal failure, or osteoarthritis were associated with lower ED charges. Female sex, metropolitan residence, metropolitan teaching hospital status, and medical comorbidity (diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease, gout, osteoarthritis, renal failure, and heart failure) were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization.

Conclusion

Comorbidities were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization after an ED visit for septic arthritis, but not higher ED charges. No time trends in ED visit incidence, ED charges, or hospitalization rate for septic arthritis from 2009–2012 were noted.
Electrospun Nanofibrous Silk Fibroin Membranes Containing Gelatin Nanospheres for Controlled Delivery of Biomolecules
Authors: Song Jiankang , Klymov Alexey , Shao Jinlong , Zhang Yang , Ji Wei , Kolwijck Eva , Jansen John A. , Leeuwenburgh Sander C. G. , Yang Fang
Published: May 2017

Development of novel and effective drug delivery systems for controlled release of bioactive molecules is of critical importance in the field of regenerative medicine. Here, oppositely charged gelatin nanospheres are incorporated into silk fibroin nanofibers through a colloidal electrospinning technique. A novel fibrous nano‐in‐nano drug delivery system is fabricated without the use of any organic solvent. The distribution of fluorescently labeled gelatin A and B nanospheres inside the nanofibers can be fine‐tuned by simple adjustment of the weight ratio between the nanospheres and the relative feeding rate of core and shell solutions containing nanospheres by using single and coaxial nozzle electrospinning, respectively. Incorporation of vancomycin‐loaded gelatin B nanospheres into the silk fibroin nanofibrous membranes results in a more sustained release of vancomycin, compared to the gelatin nanospheres free membranes. In addition, these membranes exhibit excellent and prolonged antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, these membranes support the attachment, spreading, and proliferation of periodontal ligament cells. These results suggest that the beneficial properties of gelatin nanospheres can be exploited to improve the biological functionality of electrospun nanofibrous silk fibroin membranes.
Time‐Dependent Mechanical Response of APbX3 (A = Cs, CH3NH3; X = I, Br) Single Crystals
Authors: Reyes‐Martinez Marcos A. , Abdelhady Ahmed L. , Saidaminov Makhsud I. , Chung Duck Young , Bakr Osman M. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G. , Soboyejo Wole O. , Loo Yueh‐Lin
Published: May 2017

The ease of processing hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite (HOIPs) films, belonging to a material class with composition ABX3, from solution and at mild temperatures promises their use in deformable technologies, including flexible photovoltaic devices, sensors, and displays. To successfully apply these materials in deformable devices, knowledge of their mechanical response to dynamic strain is necessary. The authors elucidate the time‐ and rate‐dependent mechanical properties of HOIPs and an inorganic perovskite (IP) single crystal by measuring nanoindentation creep and stress relaxation. The observation of pop‐in events and slip bands on the surface of the indented crystals demonstrate dislocation‐mediated plastic deformation. The magnitudes of creep and relaxation of both HOIPs and IPs are similar, negating prior hypothesis that the presence of organic A‐site cations alters the mechanical response of these materials. Moreover, these samples exhibit a pronounced increase in creep, and stress relaxation as a function of indentation rate whose magnitudes reflect differences in the rates of nucleation and propagation of dislocations within the crystal structures of HOIPs and IP. This contribution provides understanding that is critical for designing perovskite devices capable of withstanding mechanical deformations.
Up‐Conversion Fluorescent Labels for Plastic Recycling: A Review
Authors: Gao Guojun , Turshatov Andrey , Howard Ian A. , Busko Dmitry , Joseph Reetu , Hudry Damien , Richards Bryce S.
Published: May 2017

The demand for more efficient and complete sorting techniques for plastic waste is growing, and one possible solution isbased on fluorescent labeling. Novel fluorescent labels based on trivalent lanthanide (Ln3+) activated inorganic up‐conversion (UC) materials offer a promising technological solution for plastic recycling. UC is a nonlinear, anti‐Stokes process of combining two or more low energy near‐infrared (NIR) photons to obtain the emission of a single higher energy photon. While Ln3+ based UC materials possess one key disadvantage –low quantum yield, they also exhibit many unique features, such as high signal/noise ratio, tailored emission color, long photo‐luminescent lifetime, and low toxicity. These unique features endear them for a diverse range of applications and offer many new opportunities. Herein, we review the recent advances in the Ln3+ activated inorganic micro‐sized UC materials from the perspective of tailoring UC emission color and intensity for plastic recycling applications.
Polyelectrolyte‐Enrobed Cancer Cells in View of Personalized Immune‐Therapy
Authors: Lybaert Lien , Ryu Keun Ah , De Rycke Riet , Chon Alfred C. , De Wever Olivier , Vermaelen Karim Y. , Esser‐Kahn Aaron , De Geest Bruno G.
Published: May 2017

Targeting the immune system with a personalized vaccine containing cues derived from the patient's malignancy might be a promising approach in the fight against cancer. It includes neo‐antigens as well as nonmutated tumor antigens, preferentially leading to an immune response that is directed to a broader range of epitopes compared to strategies involving a single antigen. Here, this paper reports on an elegant method to encapsulate whole cancer cells into polyelectrolyte particles. Porous and nonaggregated microparticles containing dead cancer cells are obtained by admixing mannitol and live cancer cells with oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, dextran sulfate (anionic polysaccharide), and poly‐l‐arginine (cationic polypeptide) prior to atomization into a hot air stream. It shows that the polyelectrolyte‐enrobed cancer cells, upon redispersion in phosphate buffered saline buffer, are stable and do not release cell proteins in the supernatant. In vitro experiments reveal that the particles are nontoxic and strongly increase uptake of cell lysate by dendritic cells. In vitro assessment of antigen presentation by dendritic cells reveal the potential of the polyelectrolyte‐enrobed cancer cells as promotors of antigen cross‐presentation. Finally, it is demonstrated that the immunogenicity can be enhanced by surface adsorption of a polymer‐substituted TLR7‐agonist.
Elimination of Lateral Resistance and Current Crowding in Large‐Area LEDs by Composition Grading and Diffusion‐Driven Charge Transport
Authors: Kivisaari Pyry , Kim Iurii , Suihkonen Sami , Oksanen Jani
Published: May 2017

Gallium nitride based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are presently fundamentally transforming the lighting industry, but limitations in the materials and fabrication methods of LEDs introduce substantial challenges to their future development. Among the remaining key bottlenecks of GaN LEDs are the resistive losses and current crowding that strongly increase the heat generation at high powers. In this work the authors show how a new design paradigm based on diffusion‐driven charge transport (DDCT) and selective‐area growth (SAG) of GaN can be used to reduce the resistive losses of LEDs below the level achievable with presently available structures. The authors carry out full device simulations and demonstrate SAG of both n‐ and p‐doped GaN on device templates with InGaN quantum wells that can be excited using DDCT. The results indicate that especially when combined with material composition grading, the new approach offers the possibility to substantially reduce the resistive heating in high‐power LEDs.
Emerging 3D‐Printed Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices: A Critical Review
Authors: Tian Xiaocong , Jin Jun , Yuan Shangqin , Chua Chee Kai , Tor Shu Beng , Zhou Kun
Published: May 2017

Three‐dimensional (3D) printing, a layer‐by‐layer deposition technology, has a revolutionary role in a broad range of applications. As an emerging advanced fabrication technology, it has drawn growing interest in the field of electrochemical energy storage because of its inherent advantages including the freeform construction and controllable 3D structural prototyping. This article focuses on the topic of 3D‐printed electrochemical energy storage devices (EESDs), which bridge advanced electrochemical energy storage and future additive manufacturing. Basic 3D printing systems and material considerations are described to provide a fundamental understanding of printing technologies for the fabrication of EESDs. The performance metrics of 3D‐printed EESDs are then given and the related performance optimization strategies are discussed. Next, the recent advances of 3D‐printed EESDs, including sandwich‐type and in‐plane architectures, are summarized. Conclusions and future perspectives with some unique challenges and important directions are then discussed. It can be expected that, with the help of 3D printing technology, the development of advanced electrochemical energy storage systems will be greatly promoted.
Numerical simulation of solvent and water assisted electrical heating of oil sands including aquathermolysis and thermal cracking reactions
Authors: Hassanzadeh Hassan , Rabiei Faradonbeh Moosa , Harding Thomas
Published: May 2017

Simulations of bitumen recovery using solvent‐ and water‐assisted electrical heating of oil sands are presented to evaluate the process and to study gas generation. Aquathermolysis and thermal cracking and dissolution of acid‐gases in water are included. Steam‐assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) is also simulated for comparison. Results show that gas generation negatively impacts SAGD. However, in electrical heating dissolution of gases into solvent weakens their negative impact. Results indicate that SAGD generates a larger gas volume than electrical heating. In both processes, methane is found to be the major species in the produced gas and H2S concentration can reach high values. While the effect of acid–gas solubility in water on oil recovery is not evident its effect on generated gas volume is significant. Simulation results demonstrate that electrical heating is more energy efficient than SAGD. These results find application in design of experiments and pilot and field‐scale implementation of the process. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 63: 4243–4258, 2017
PLXNA1 developmental encephalopathy with syndromic features: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Park Kaylee , Seltzer Laurie E. , Tuttle Emily , Mirzaa Ghayda M. , Paciorkowski Alex R.
Published: May 2017

Developmental encephalopathies constitute a broad and genetically heterogeneous spectrum of disorders associated with global developmental delay, intellectual disability, frequent epilepsy, and other neurofunctional abnormalities. Here, we report a male presenting with infantile onset epilepsy and syndromic features resembling Dubowitz syndrome identified to have a de novo PLXNA1 variant by whole exome sequencing. This constitutes the second report of PLXNA1 sequence variation associated with early onset epilepsy, and the first to expand on the clinical features of this emerging disorder. This reports suggests that nonsynonymous de novo sequence variations in PLXNA1 are associated with a novel human phenotype characterized by intractable early onset epilepsy, intellectual disability, and syndromic features.
Intramolecular Cross‐Linking: Addressing Mechanochemistry with a Bioinspired Approach
Authors: Levy Avishai , Wang Feng , Lang Arad , Galant Or , Diesendruck Charles E.
Published: May 2017

Many of the attractive properties in polymers are a consequence of their high molecular weight and therefore, scission of chains due to mechanochemistry leads to deterioration in properties and performance. Intramolecular cross‐links are systematically added to linear chains, slowing down mechanochemical degradation to the point where the chains become virtually invincible to shear in solution. Our approach mimics the immunoglobulin‐like domains of Titin, whose structure directs mechanical force towards the scission of sacrificial intramolecular hydrogen bonds, absorbing mechanical energy while unfolding. The kinetics of the mechanochemical reactions supports this hypothesis, as the polymer properties are maintained while high rates of mechanochemistry are observed. Our results demonstrate that polymers with intramolecular cross‐links can be used to make solutions which, even under severe shear, maintain key properties such as viscosity.
A Long‐Range Acting Dehydratase Domain as the Missing Link for C17‐Dehydration in Iso‐Migrastatin Biosynthesis
Authors: Zhang Bo , Xu Zhengren , Teng Qihui , Pan Guohui , Ma Ming , Shen Ben
Published: May 2017

The dehydratase domains (DHs) of the iso‐migrastatin (iso‐MGS) polyketide synthase (PKS) were investigated by systematic inactivation of the DHs in module‐6, ‐9, ‐10 of MgsF (i.e., DH6, DH9, DH10) and module‐11 of MgsG (i.e., DH11) in vivo, followed by structural characterization of the metabolites accumulated by the mutants, and biochemical characterization of DH10 in vitro, using polyketide substrate mimics with varying chain lengths. These studies allowed us to assign the functions for all four DHs, identifying DH10 as the dedicated dehydratase that catalyzes the dehydration of the C17 hydroxy group during iso‐MGS biosynthesis. In contrast to canonical DHs that catalyze dehydration of the β‐hydroxy groups of the nascent polyketide intermediates, DH10 acts in a long‐range manner that is unprecedented for type I PKSs, a novel dehydration mechanism that could be exploited for polyketide structural diversity by combinatorial biosynthesis and synthetic biology.
Sulfone–Metal Exchange and Alkylation of Sulfonylnitriles
Authors: Yang Xun , Nath Dinesh , Gau Michael R. , Steward Omar W. , Fleming Fraser F.
Published: May 2017

The first general sulfone–metal exchange is described. Treating substituted 2‐pyridylsulfonylacetonitriles with either BuLi or Bu3MgLi generates metalated nitriles that efficiently intercept a variety of electrophiles to afford quaternary nitriles. The 2‐pyridylsulfone is critical for the sulfone–metal exchange because chelation anchors the organometallic proximal to the electrophilic, tetrasubstituted sulfone to override complex‐induced deprotonation. Alkylating commercial 2‐pyridinesulfonylacetonitrile with mild bases, either K2CO3 or DBU, and subsequent sulfone–metal exchange and alkylation rapidly assembles quaternary nitriles by three alkylations, only one of which requires an organometallic reagent.
Enhancing Light Absorption and Charge Transfer Efficiency in Carbon Dots through Graphitization and Core Nitrogen Doping
Authors: Martindale Benjamin C. M. , Hutton Georgina A. M. , Caputo Christine A. , Prantl Sebastian , Godin Robert , Durrant James R. , Reisner Erwin
Published: May 2017

Single‐source precursor syntheses have been devised for the preparation of structurally similar graphitic carbon dots (CDs), with (g‐N‐CD) and without (g‐CD) core nitrogen doping for artificial photosynthesis. An order of magnitude improvement has been realized in the rate of solar (AM1.5G) H2 evolution using g‐N‐CD (7950 μmolH2 (gCD)−1 h−1) compared to undoped CDs. All graphitized CDs show significantly enhanced light absorption compared to amorphous CDs (a‐CD) yet undoped g‐CD display limited photosensitizer ability due to low extraction of photogenerated charges. Transient absorption spectroscopy showed that nitrogen doping in g‐N‐CD increases the efficiency of hole scavenging by the electron donor and thereby significantly extends the lifetime of the photogenerated electrons. Thus, nitrogen doping allows the high absorption coefficient of graphitic CDs to be translated into high charge extraction for efficient photocatalysis.
Inhibiting Polysulfide Shuttle in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries through Low‐Ion‐Pairing Salts and a Triflamide Solvent
Authors: Shyamsunder Abhinandan , Beichel Witali , Klose Petra , Pang Quan , Scherer Harald , Hoffmann Anke , Murphy Graham K. , Krossing Ingo , Nazar Linda F.
Published: May 2017

The step‐change in gravimetric energy density needed for electrochemical energy storage devices to power unmanned autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and enable low‐cost clean grid storage is unlikely to be provided by conventional lithium ion batteries. Lithium–sulfur batteries comprising lightweight elements provide a promising alternative, but the associated polysulfide shuttle in typical ether‐based electrolytes generates loss in capacity and low coulombic efficiency. The first new electrolyte based on a unique combination of a relatively hydrophobic sulfonamide solvent and a low ion‐pairing salt, which inhibits the polysulfide shuttle, is presented. This system behaves as a sparingly solvating electrolyte at slightly elevated temperatures, where it sustains reversible capacities as high as 1200–1500 mAh g−1 over a wide range of current density (2C–C/5, respectively) when paired with a lithium metal anode, with a coulombic efficiency of >99.7 % in the absence of LiNO3 additive.
Manganese(I)‐Catalyzed Regioselective C−H Allenylation: Direct Access to 2‐Allenylindoles
Authors: Lu Qingquan , Greßies Steffen , Klauck Felix J. R. , Glorius Frank
Published: May 2017

A MnI‐catalyzed regioselective C−H allenylation is reported that allows a broad range of 2‐allenylindoles to be synthesized regioselectively on a gram scale under simple conditions. Notably, a highly efficient chirality transfer was observed (up to 93 % ee) in this transformation. This procedure was further found to allow, for the first time, the direct preparation of ketones by MnI‐catalyzed C−H activation. Mechanistic investigations revealed that the precoordination of the oxygen atom to the manganese center as well as the congested tertiary carbon atom in the propargylic carbonates play a crucial role.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Regioselective Synthesis of 3‐Arylindoles from N‐Ts‐Anilines and Styrenes
Authors: Youn So Won , Ko Tae Yun , Jang Young Ho
Published: May 2017

A Pd‐catalyzed intermolecular oxidative annulation between N‐Ts‐anilines and styrenes was developed. This method offers a straightforward and robust approach to a wide range of 3‐arylindoles using readily available starting materials with good functional‐group tolerance and high regioselectivity and efficiency. Further elaboration of the products obtained from this process provided access to highly functionalized and structurally diverse indoles, for example, 3‐(indol‐3‐yl)carbazoles, 1,9‐dihydropyrrolo‐[2,3‐b]carbazoles, and 3′‐aryl‐3,5′‐biindoles.
Ion‐Tagged Oligonucleotides Coupled with a Magnetic Liquid Support for the Sequence‐Specific Capture of DNA
Authors: Clark Kevin D. , Varona Marcelino , Anderson Jared L.
Published: May 2017

The isolation of specific nucleic acid sequences is a major bottleneck in molecular diagnostics. Magnetic beads/particles are typically used as solid supports for the capture of DNA targets to improve sample throughput but aggregate over time resulting in lower capture efficiency and obstruction of liquid handling devices. Herein, we describe a particle‐free approach to sequence‐specific DNA extraction using a magnetic liquid support and ion‐tagged oligonucleotide (ITO) probes. ITO conjugates were synthesized with the highest yields ever achieved for the radical thiol‐ene coupling of a substrate and oligonucleotide. In addition to distinguishing nucleotide mismatches, the ITO and magnetic liquid‐based approach was more sensitive than a commercial magnetic bead‐based method for the capture of target DNA from a pool of interfering genomic DNA.
Efficient Generation of Lactic Acid from Glycerol over a Ru‐Zn‐CuI/Hydroxyapatite Catalyst
Authors: Jiang Zhiwei , Zhang Zhanrong , Wu Tianbin , Zhang Pei , Song Jinliang , Xie Chao , Han Buxing
Published: May 2017

The biodiesel production process generates a significant amount of glycerol as a byproduct. A drive to add value has attracted worldwide attention, with the aim of improving the overall effectiveness and profitability of biodiesel production. Herein, we report hydroxyapatite (HAP)‐supported Ru‐Zn‐CuI (Ru‐Zn‐CuI/HAP) as effective catalysts for the transformation of glycerol to lactic acid (LA).The catalysts were characterized by using different techniques. The effects of catalyst composition, reaction time, and temperature on the conversion and product distribution were investigated. It was revealed that Ru nanoparticles of less than 2 nm were dispersed uniformly on HAP. CuI could effectively inhibit the cleavage of C−C bonds, which led to improved yields of LA. Under optimized conditions, the yield of LA could reach 70.9 % over Ru‐Zn‐CuI/HAP. Furthermore, the catalyst could be reused at least four times without an obvious loss of activity or selectivity.
Abdominal Wall Defects in Greenland 1989–2015
Authors: Bugge Merete , Drachmann Gitte , Kern Peder , Budtz–Jørgensen Esben , Eiberg Hans , Olsen Britta , Tommerup Niels , Nielsen Inge‐Merete
Published: May 2017

Background

In the last decades, an increasing rate of gastroschisis but not of omphalocele has been reported worldwide. Greenland is the world's largest island, but 80% is covered by an ice cap, it has a small population of around 56,000 peoples (as of 2016). The occurrence of abdominal wall defects has never been investigated in Greenland.

Methods

The present study is based on data retrieved from three nationwide and two local registries in the Greenlandic health care system over 27 years (1989–2015).

Results

We identified 33 infants with abdominal wall defects born in the study time period. All cases were reclassified to 28 cases of gastroschisis, four cases of omphalocele, and there was 1 infant in the indeterminate group. The point prevalence at birth for gastroschisis increased significantly from 8 to 35 (average 10.7) per 10,000 liveborn and ‐stillborn infants. Mothers below 20 years of age represented 23% of all cases and the prevalence for this group was 17 per 10,000 liveborn and stillborn. Perinatal mortality for infants with gastroschisis was high (18%), and 1 year survival was 71%. For omphalocele, the prevalence varied from 8 to 11 per 10,000 liveborn and stillborn infants. There was no increasing rate in the period, further highlighting an etiological difference between gastroschisis and omphalocele.

Conclusion

This study confirms the increasing prevalence of gastroschisis in Greenland in the period from 1989 to 2015. The average was 10.7 per 10,000 liveborn and ‐stillborn infants and, to the best of our knowledge, this is the highest prevalence ever reported. Birth Defects Research 109:836–842, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel Xp22.13 microdeletion in Nance‐Horan syndrome
Authors: Accogli Andrea , Traverso Monica , Madia Francesca , Bellini Tommaso , Vari Maria Stella , Pinto Francesca , Capra Valeria
Published: May 2017

Background

Nance‐Horan syndrome (NHS) is a rare X‐linked developmental disorder characterized by congenital cataract, dental anomalies and facial dysmorphisms. Notably, up to 30% of NHS patients have intellectual disability and a few patients have been reported to have congenital cardiac defects. Nance‐Horan syndrome is caused by mutations in the NHS gene that is highly expressed in the midbrain, retina, lens, tooth, and is conserved across vertebrate species. Although most pathogenic mutations are nonsense mutations, a few genomic rearrangements involving NHS locus have been reported, suggesting a possible pathogenic role of the flanking genes.

Methods

Here, we report a microdeletion of 170,6 Kb at Xp22.13 (17.733.948‐17.904.576) (GRCh37/hg19), detected by array‐based comparative genomic hybridization in an Italian boy with NHS syndrome.

Results

The microdeletion harbors the NHS, SCLML1, and RAI2 genes and results in a phenotype consistent with NSH syndrome and developmental delay.

Conclusion

We compare our case with the previous Xp22.13 microdeletions and discuss the possible pathogenetic role of the flanking genes. Birth Defects Research 109:866–868, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alanine scan of the opioid peptide dynorphin B amide
Authors: Joshi Anand A. , Murray Thomas F. , Aldrich Jane V.
Published: May 2017

To date structure‐activity relationship (SAR) studies of the dynorphins (Dyn), endogenous peptides for kappa opioid receptors (KOR), have focused almost exclusively on Dyn A with minimal studies on Dyn B. While both Dyn A and Dyn B have identical N‐terminal sequences, their C‐terminal sequences differ, which could result in differences in pharmacological activity. We performed an alanine scan of the non‐glycine residues up through residue 11 of Dyn B amide to explore the roles of these side chains in the activity of Dyn B. The analogs were synthesized by fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl (Fmoc)‐based solid phase peptide synthesis and evaluated for their opioid receptor affinities and opioid potency and efficacy at KOR. Similar to Dyn A the N‐terminal Tyr1 and Phe4 residues of Dyn B amide are critical for opioid receptor affinity and KOR agonist potency. The basic residues Arg6 and Arg7 contribute to the KOR affinity and agonist potency of Dyn B amide, while Lys10 contributes to the opioid receptor affinity, but not KOR agonist potency, of this peptide. Comparison to the Ala analogs of Dyn A (1–13) suggests that the basic residues in the C‐terminus of both peptides contribute to KOR binding, but differences in their relative positions may contribute to the different pharmacological profiles of Dyn A and Dyn B. The other unique C‐terminal residues in Dyn B amide also appear to influence the relative affinity of this peptide for KOR versus mu and delta opioid receptors. This SAR information may be applied in the design of new Dyn B analogs that could be useful pharmacological tools.
Engineering Brevibacterium flavum for the production of renewable bioenergy: C4–C5 advanced alcohols
Authors: Su HaiFeng , Lin JiaFu , Wang YuanHong , Chen Qiao , Wang GuangWei , Tan FuRong
Published: May 2017

Biosynthesis of advanced biofuels by engineered non‐natural microorganisms has been proposed to be the most promising approach for the replacement of dwindling fossil fuel resources. Brevibacterium flavum (Bf) is a model brevibacterium aerobe which lacks basic and applied research that could enable this species to produce biofuels. There are no reports regarding engineering this microorganism to produce advanced alcohols before. Here, for the first time, we developed the bacterium as a novel biosynthetic platform for advanced alcohols production via the mutagenesis and engineering to produce 2‐ketoacids derived alcohols. In order to enhance the strain's capability of producing advanced alcohols, we preferentially improved intrinsic metabolism ability of the strain to obtain improved expression host (IEH) via generating mutagenesis libraries by whole cell mutagenesis (WCM). The IEH was determined via screening out the mutant strain with the highest production of branched‐chain organic acids (BCOA) using high throughput screening method.. Subsequently, a novel vector system for Bf was established, and the corresponding biosynthetic pathway of directing carbon flux into the target advanced alcohols was recruited to make the bacterium possess the capability of producing advanced alcohols and further enhance the production using the IEH. Specifically, we generated bioengineered strains that were able to synthesize up to the highest 5362 and 4976 mg/L isobutanol, 1945 and 1747 mg/L 2‐methyl‐1‐butanol (2 MB), and 785.34 and 781 mg/L 3‐methyl‐1‐butanol (3 MB) from pure glucose and duckweed substrates, respectively. Our findings confirmed the feasibility and potential of using Bf as a novel biosynthetic platform to generate advanced biofuels with glucose and inexpensive renewable feedstock‐duckweed as a fermentation substrate. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1946–1958. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrafiltration behavior of monoclonal antibodies and Fc‐fusion proteins: Effects of physical properties
Authors: Baek Youngbin , Singh Nripen , Arunkumar Abhiram , Borys Michael , Li Zheng J. , Zydney Andrew L.
Published: May 2017

Ultrafiltration (UF) is used for the final concentration and formulation of essentially all antibody‐based therapeutics including both monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and Fc‐fusion proteins. The objective of this study was to quantitatively compare the filtrate flux behavior for two highly purified mAbs and an Fc‐fusion protein under identical flow and buffer conditions. Filtrate flux data were obtained using a Pellicon 3 tangential flow filtration cassette over a wide range of transmembrane pressures and bulk protein concentrations. Independent experimental measurements were performed to evaluate the protein osmotic pressure and solution viscosity. The maximum achievable protein concentration was directly correlated with the solution viscosity, which controls the pressure drop and extent of back‐filtration in the cassette. The filtrate flux data were analyzed using a recently developed model that accounts for the effects of intermolecular interactions and transmembrane pressure gradients on the extent of concentration polarization. These results provide important insights into the factors controlling the filtrate flux during the UF of concentrated protein solutions and an effective framework for the design/analysis of UF processes for the formulation of antibody‐based therapeutics. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 2057–2065. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Casting epPCR (cepPCR): A simple random mutagenesis method to generate high quality mutant libraries
Authors: Yang Jianhua , Ruff Anna J. , Arlt Marcus , Schwaneberg Ulrich
Published: May 2017

During the last decade, directed evolution has become a standard protein engineering strategy to reengineer proteins for industrial applications under high stress conditions (e.g., high temperature, extreme pH, ionic liquids, or organic solvents). The most commonly employed method for diversity generation to improve biocatalysts for these properties is random mutagenesis by error‐prone polymerase chain reaction (epPCR). However, recent reports show that epPCR often fails to produce >70% of beneficial positions/amino acid exchanges which improve enzyme properties such as organic solvent or ionic liquid resistance. In this report, bsla (543 bp, small lipase gene from Bacillus subtilis) was divided into three fragments (147, 192, 204 bp). Each fragment was subjected to an epPCR with a high mutation load (22, 31, and 33 mutations per kb) in order to increase the number of identified beneficial positions while maintaining a fraction of active population which can efficiently be screened in agar plate or microtiter plate format. The use of this “casting epPCR” process termed as (cepPCR), doubles the number of identified beneficial positions (from 14% to 29%), when compared to standard epPCR for the BSLA enzyme model. A further increase to 39% of beneficial positions is obtainable through combination of cepPCR with the transversion biased sequence saturation mutagenesis (SeSaM) method. Furthermore, sequencing of up to 600 mutations per fragment provided valuable insights into the correlation of total throughput and number of identified beneficial positions as well as how an efficient balance of screening efforts to obtainable results can be achieved in directed evolution campaigns. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1921–1927. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long noncoding RNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and suicide risk in Chinese patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Cui Xuelian , Niu Wei , Kong Lingming , He Mingjun , Jiang Kunhong , Chen Shengdong , Zhong Aifang , Li Wanshuai , Lu Jim , Zhang Liyi
Published: May 2017

Background

WHO stated that nearly one million people commit suicide every year worldly, and 40% of the suicide completer suffered from depression. The primary aim of this study was to explore the association between long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and suicide risk of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

Using Human LncRNA 3.0 microarray profiling which includes 30,586 human lncRNAs and RT‐PCR, six down‐regulated lncRNAs were identified differentially expressed in MDD patients. According to suicidal ideation and suicidal attempt, the suicide risk of MDD patients was classified into suicidal ideation versus no suicidal ideation groups, and past attempt versus no past attempt groups, respectively. The expression of six lncRNAs in MDD patients and controls were examined by RT‐PCR.

Results

The expression of six lncRNAs had significant differences between no suicidal ideation, suicidal ideation, and controls; corresponding lncRNAs associated with suicidal attempt had remarkable differences between no past attempt, past attempt, and controls. Additionally, only the expression of lncRNAs in suicidal ideation group and past attempt group markedly declined compared with controls.

Conclusions

This study indicated that the expression of six down‐regulated lncRNAs had a negative association with suicide risk in MDD patients, and the expression of lncRNAs in PBMCs could have the potential to help clinician judge the suicide risk of MDD patients to provide timely treatment and prevent suicide.
Abnormal amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations and functional connectivity of resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging in patients with leukoaraiosis
Authors: Cheng Rongchuan , Qi Honglin , Liu Yong , Zhao Shifu , Li Chuanming , Liu Chen , Zheng Jian
Published: May 2017

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the cerebral function deficits in patients with leukoaraiosis (LA) and the correlation with white matter hyperintensity (WMH) using functional MRI (fMRI) technology.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with LA and 30 volunteers were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent structural MRI and resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI) scanning. The amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations (ALFF) of rs‐fMRI signals for the two groups was compared using two‐sample t tests. A one‐sample t test was performed on the individual z‐value maps to identify the functional connectivity of each group. The z values were compared between the two groups using a two‐sample t test. Partial correlations between ALFF values and functional connectivity of the brain regions that showed group differences and Fazekas scores of the WMH were analyzed.

Results

Compared with the control group, the LA group showed a significant decrease in the ALFF in the left parahippocampal gyrus (PHG) and an increased ALFF in the left inferior semi‐lunar lobule and right superior orbital frontal gyrus (SOFG). The patients with LA showed an increased functional connectivity between the right insular region and the right SOFG and between the right calcarine cortex and the left PHG. After the effects of age, gender, and years of education were corrected as covariates, the functional connectivity strength of the right insular and the right SOFG showed close correlations with the Fazekas scores.

Conclusion

Our results enhance the understanding of the pathomechanism of LA. Leukoaraiosis is associated with widespread cerebral function deficits, which show a close correlation with WMH and can be measured by rs‐fMRI.