bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Polar Indirect Circulation on Superrotation and Multiple Equilibrium in Long‐Term AGCM Experiments With an Idealized Venus‐Like Forcing: Sensitivity to Horizontal Resolution and Initial Condition
Authors: Yamamoto Masaru , Takahashi Masaaki
Published: February 2018

A simplified model setup has been used in atmospheric general circulation models (AGCMs), to clarify the fluid dynamical process of terrestrial planets. In the present work, the research aim is to ascertain the dynamical effects of polar indirect circulation on superrotation and multiple equilibrium states in Venus‐like planets. The model setup previously used for Venus AGCM intercomparison is applied to the Model for Interdisciplinary Research On Climate AGCM, and the horizontal resolution and initial conditions are altered in the long‐term experiments. The structures of general circulation and planetary‐scale waves in the T42 (Truncation wave number 42) experiment are similar to those in the T63 experiment. In the presence of the polar indirect circulation, the superrotational flow weakens in the cloud layer and its momentum is transported toward the lower atmosphere at high latitudes. In contrast, in the T21 experiment, because the polar indirect circulation is not fully resolved, the vertical momentum transport due to the indirect circulation is ineffective in the lower atmosphere, and thus, the cloud top superrotational flow becomes greater than those in the higher‐resolution experiments. The multiple equilibrium states caused by different initial zonal flows appear in the T21 experiments, although they are not seen in the experiments of T42 and higher. Thus, the polar indirect circulation in the Gierasch‐Rossow‐Williams mechanism weakens the superrotational flow in the cloud layer and breaks the steady state multiplicity of the general circulation.
Direct Numerical Simulation of Transverse Ripples: 1. Pattern Initiation and Bedform Interactions
Authors: Zgheib N. , Fedele J. J. , Hoyal D. C. J. D. , Perillo M. M. , Balachandar S.
Published: February 2018

We present results of coupled direct numerical simulations between flow and a deformable bed in a horizontally periodic, turbulent open channel at a shear Reynolds number of Reτ = 180. The feedback between the temporally and spatially evolving bed and the flow is enforced via the immersed boundary method. Using the near‐bed flow field, we provide evidence on the role of locally intense near‐bed vortical structures during the early stages of bed formation, from the emergence of quasi‐streamwise streaks to the formation of incipient bedform crestlines. Additionally, we take a new look at a number of defect‐related bedform interactions, including lateral linking, defect and bedform repulsion, merging, and defect creation, and show that the underlying mechanisms, in these flow‐aligned interactions, are very similar to each other. Consequently, the interactions are labeled differently depending on the geometry of interacting structures and the outcome of the interaction. In the companion paper, we compare our results to published experimental data and provide an extensive quantitative analysis of the bed, where we demonstrate the importance of neighboring structures, especially upstream neighbors, on bedform dynamics (growth/decay and speed) and wave coarsening. Video files of bed evolution are available in the supporting information.
Variance and Rate‐of‐Change as Early Warning Signals for a Critical Transition in an Aquatic Ecosystem State: A Test Case From Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Beck Kristen K. , Fletcher Michael‐Shawn , Gadd Patricia S. , Heijnis Henk , Saunders Krystyna M. , Simpson Gavin L. , Zawadzki Atun
Published: February 2018

Critical transitions in ecosystem states are often sudden and unpredictable. Consequently, there is a concerted effort to identify measurable early warning signals (EWS) for these important events. Aquatic ecosystems provide an opportunity to observe critical transitions due to their high sensitivity and rapid response times. Using palaeoecological techniques, we can measure properties of time series data to determine if critical transitions are preceded by any measurable ecosystem metrics, that is, identify EWS. Using a suite of palaeoenvironmental data spanning the last 2,400 years (diatoms, pollen, geochemistry, and charcoal influx), we assess whether a critical transition in diatom community structure was preceded by measurable EWS. Lake Vera, in the temperate rain forest of western Tasmania, Australia, has a diatom community dominated by Discostella stelligera and undergoes an abrupt compositional shift at ca. 820 cal yr BP that is concomitant with increased fire disturbance of the local vegetation. This shift is manifest as a transition from less oligotrophic acidic diatom flora (Achnanthidium minutissimum, Brachysira styriaca, and Fragilaria capucina) to more oligotrophic acidic taxa (Frustulia elongatissima, Eunotia diodon, and Gomphonema multiforme). We observe a marked increase in compositional variance and rate‐of‐change prior to this critical transition, revealing these metrics are useful EWS in this system. Interestingly, vegetation remains complacent to fire disturbance until after the shift in the diatom community. Disturbance taxa invade and the vegetation system experiences an increase in both compositional variance and rate‐of‐change. These trends imply an approaching critical transition in the vegetation and the probable collapse of the local rain forest system.
Productivity Contribution of Paleozoic Woodlands to the Formation of Shale‐Hosted Massive Sulfide Deposits in the Iberian Pyrite Belt (Tharsis, Spain)
Authors: Fernández‐Remolar David C. , Harir Mourad , Carrizo Daniel , Schmitt‐Kopplin Philippe , Amils Ricardo
Published: February 2018

The geological materials produced during catastrophic and destructive events are an essential source of paleobiological knowledge. The paleobiological information recorded by such events can be rich in information on the size, diversity, and structure of paleocommunities. In this regard, the geobiological study of late Devonian organic matter sampled in Tharsis (Iberian Pyrite Belt) provided some new insights into a Paleozoic woodland community, which was recorded as massive sulfides and black shale deposits affected by a catastrophic event. Sample analysis using TOF‐SIMS (Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer), and complemented by GC/MS (Gas Chromatrograph/Mass Spectrometer) identified organic compounds showing a very distinct distribution in the rock. While phytochemical compounds occur homogeneously in the sample matrix that is composed of black shale, the microbial‐derived organics are more abundant in the sulfide nodules. The cooccurrence of sulfur bacteria compounds and the overwhelming presence of phytochemicals provide support for the hypothesis that the formation of the massive sulfides resulted from a high rate of vegetal debris production and its oxidation through sulfate reduction under suboxic to anoxic conditions. A continuous supply of iron from hydrothermal activity coupled with microbial activity was strictly necessary to produce this massive orebody. A rough estimate of the woodland biomass was made possible by accounting for the microbial sulfur production activity recorded in the metallic sulfide. As a result, the biomass size of the late Devonian woodland community was comparable to modern woodlands like the Amazon or Congo rainforests.
Source Partitioning of Methane Emissions and its Seasonality in the U.S. Midwest
Authors: Chen Zichong , Griffis Timothy J. , Baker John M. , Millet Dylan B. , Wood Jeffrey D. , Dlugokencky Edward J. , Andrews Arlyn E. , Sweeney Colm , Hu Cheng , Kolka Randall K.
Published: February 2018

The methane (CH4) budget and its source partitioning are poorly constrained in the Midwestern United States. We used tall tower (185 m) aerodynamic flux measurements and atmospheric scale factor Bayesian inversions to constrain the monthly budget and to partition the total budget into natural (e.g., wetlands) and anthropogenic (e.g., livestock, waste, and natural gas) sources for the period June 2016 to September 2017. Aerodynamic flux observations indicated that the landscape was a CH4 source with a mean annual CH4 flux of +13.7 ± 0.34 nmol m−2 s−1 and was rarely a net sink. The scale factor Bayesian inversion analyses revealed a mean annual source of +12.3 ± 2.1 nmol m−2 s−1. Flux partitioning revealed that the anthropogenic source (7.8 ± 1.6 Tg CH4 yr−1) was 1.5 times greater than the bottom‐up gridded United States Environmental Protection Agency inventory, in which livestock and oil/gas sources were underestimated by 1.8‐fold and 1.3‐fold, respectively. Wetland emissions (4.0 ± 1.2 Tg CH4 yr−1) were the second largest source, accounting for 34% of the total budget. The temporal variability of total CH4 emissions was dominated by wetlands with peak emissions occurring in August. In contrast, emissions from oil/gas and other anthropogenic sources showed relatively weak seasonality.
Optimized Application of Biome‐BGC for Modeling the Daily GPP of Natural Vegetation Over Peninsular Spain
Authors: Sanchez‐Ruiz Sergio , Chiesi Marta , Fibbi Luca , Carrara Arnaud , Maselli Fabio , Gilabert María Amparo
Published: February 2018

A methodology for improving the application of Biome‐BGC in peninsular Spain was developed focusing on the optimization of the rooting depth (zroot), which is not available for the study area on a spatially distributed basis. The optimal zroot was identified by comparing daily gross primary production (GPP) simulations with varying zroot to GPP estimations from a production efficiency model previously optimized for and validated in the study area. The methodology was first tested in four eddy covariance (EC) sites representative of Mediterranean ecosystems and next applied at a regional scale to the whole study area. As a result, daily GPP simulated maps for the 2005–2012 period and an optimal zroot map were obtained. Optimal zroot in the four EC sites was shallower than the default one (100 cm) and led to better simulation results. Realistic, spatially distributed GPP estimates were obtained at regional scale. Withal, some discrepancies appeared both at local and regional scale emphasizing the difficulty to adequately simulate the site's water budget and the need for proper setting of inputs, including zroot for the correct functioning of Biome‐BGC. The performed optimization opens the door for using Biome‐BGC to simulate other main vegetation processes, such as net carbon fluxes, in the study area.
Particulate Organic Carbon Composition in Temperature Fronts of the Northeastern Arabian Sea during Winter
Authors: Krishna M. S. , Mukherjee J. , Dalabehera H. B. , Sarma V. V. S. S.
Published: February 2018

In order to understand the major sources of particulate organic carbon (POC) in the frontal zones and to examine their variability with space and time, a total of five temperature fronts of different ages was sampled in the northeastern Arabian Sea during winter. Compared to the nonfrontal regions, POC and chlorophyll‐a were higher within the coastal fronts, whereas chlorophyll‐a was lower within the open ocean front (T1). The variation of POC between coastal and open ocean fronts is attributed to the combined influence of variable vertical mixing, heterotrophic transformation and age of the front. Relatively depleted δ13CPOC and δ15NPN were observed within the fronts, suggesting that POC pool is contributed by in situ production supported by upwelling of nutrient‐rich water and zooplankton biomass. Elemental C:N ratios, POC:Chl‐a, δ13CPOC, and δ15NPN suggest that POC is mainly contributed from primary producers and heterotrophs in the study region. However, relative contributions from these two sources vary spatially from coastal to open ocean and with the age of the front. Stable Isotope Analysis in R (SIAR) model revealed that zooplankton biomass largely contributed to POC in the open ocean (60–80%) than phytoplankton (20–40%) and nearly equal contribution was observed in the coastal fronts (50–60% and 40–50%, respectively). This study, thus, demonstrates that dominant heterotrophy and autotrophy in the open ocean and coastal fronts and it is consistent with their biomasses. Predominant heterotrophy in the open ocean is attributed to deeper mixed layer resulting in upwelling of bacteria‐rich and phytoplankton‐poor water to surface leading to existence of microbial loop.
Atomic‐Scale Insight into Structure and Interface of Al2Y Phase in an Mg–Al–Y Alloy
Authors: Peng Z. Z. , Shao X. H. , Guo X. W. , Wang J. , Wang Y. J. , Ma X. L.
Published: February 2018

Atomic‐scale structure of Al2Y phase and its interface with magnesium matrix in an Mg–1Al–6.2Y (wt%) alloy have been investigated using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and density‐functional theory (DFT). Apart from micro‐sized Al2Y particles in the interior of grains or along grain boundaries, nano‐sized Al2Y lamella with a large aspect ratio precipitates within the grains. Y − enriched stacking faults are introduced at the lamellar Al2Y/Mg interface due to 0.07% lattice misfit between (022)Al2Y and Mg planes. The first‐principles simulation clarifies that Al2Y/Mg interface is energetically occupied by Al atoms other than Y atoms.
Composition and Impedance Heterogeneity in Oxide Electrode Cross‐Sections Detected by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Gilbert James A. , Maroni Victor A. , Cui Yanjie , Gosztola David J. , Miller Dean J. , Abraham Daniel P.
Published: February 2018

Lithium‐bearing layered transition metal oxides are the materials of choice for positive electrodes in high energy lithium‐ion cells being developed for electric vehicle applications. During electrochemical cycling, the loss of mobile lithium‐ions due to undesirable side reactions and an increase in cell resistance leads to a decline in the energy and power performance of the cells. This performance loss is often nonuniform across multiple cells, especially for those cycled at high voltages or high C‐rates. This nonuniformity results from inhomogeneous behavior in the battery electrodes, which can lead to localized areas that deteriorate faster than the neighboring regions. Raman spectroscopy is among the many techniques that are used to probe inhomogeneity in electrode behavior. Typically, Raman spectroscopy measurements on lithium‐ion cell electrodes are conducted in the top‐down mode, and at‐best produce an incomplete, surface biased account of electrode behavior. In contrast, micro‐Raman measurements conducted on ion‐milled electrode cross‐sections provide information from regions that span the full thickness of the electrode. Here, Raman spectroscopy data from pristine, aged, and relithiated/aged positive electrodes are reported. The spectral differences between oxide particles near the top‐surface and particles deeper into the aged electrodes clearly indicate compositional heterogeneities that arise during cell aging.
Crystal clear: Vibrational spectroscopy reveals intrabone, intraskeleton, and interskeleton variation in human bones
Authors: Gonçalves D. , Vassalo A. R. , Mamede A. P. , Makhoul C. , Piga G. , Cunha E. , Marques M. P. M. , Batista de Carvalho L. A. E.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Vibrational spectroscopy is a valuable tool for the study of burned skeletal remains. Nonetheless, most investigations have been focused on a limited number of samples as well as on faunal bones rather than human bones. Conclusions based on those investigations may lack representativeness, namely about the intrabone, intra‐ and interskeleton variability of several chemometric indices. We aimed to investigate this issue on a large sample of human bones.

Material and Methods

Powder samples were collected from 168 bones from four human skeletons. The sampling targeted 47 long bones, 72 short bones, and 49 tarsal bones as well as different bone regions in a total of 638 powder samples. Bones were experimentally burned in an electric muffle furnace for two hours to maximum temperatures ranging from 400°C to 1000°C. Another 623 burned samples were then collected totaling 1261 samples subjected to FTIR‐ATR analysis. The CI, BPI, C/C, and OH/P indices were calculated.

Results

An important intrabone, intra‐ and interskeleton variation was observed, especially for the BPI. The CI, C/C, and OH/P indices revealed much less variation so site‐specific sampling may not be as critical in these cases. Clear differences between our results and those from previous investigations were observed, namely on the temperature increment evolution of the CI and C/C indices.

Discussion

The relatively large heterogeneity, especially at the intrabone level, is possibly the consequence of microstructural bone differences. The dissimilarities observed between our investigation and other published studies are probably due to the fact that the samples used here came from human rather than faunal bones. Also, our samples were buried previously to the experimental burning so this may also partly explain our contrasting results, since previous research was mostly performed on fresh bone. Future inferences based on vibrational spectroscopy analyses should take into account the possible effect of all these sources.
Nocturnal behavior by a diurnal ape, the West African chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus), in a savanna environment at Fongoli, Senegal
Authors: Pruetz Jill D.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

I report on the nocturnal behavior of Fongoli chimpanzees in a savanna mosaic during different seasons and lunar phases and test the hypothesis that hot daytime temperatures influence activity at night. I predicted that apes would be more active at night during periods of greater lunar illuminosity given diurnal primates’ lack of visual specializations for low‐light conditions and in dry season months when water scarcity exacerbated heat stress.

Materials and Methods

I observed chimpanzees for 403 hrs on 40 nights between 2007 and 2013 and categorized their activity as social, movement, or vocalization. I scored their activity as occurring after moonrise or before moonset and considered the influence of moon phase (fuller versus darker phases) as well as season on chimpanzee nocturnal behavior in the analyses.

Results

Results indicate that apes were more active after moonrise or before moonset during fuller moon phases in the dry season but not the wet season. Most night‐time activity involved movement (travel or forage), followed by social behavior, and long‐distance vocal communication.

Discussion

Animals in highly seasonal habitats often exhibit thermoregulatory adaptations but, like other primates, chimpanzees lack physiological mechanisms to combat thermal stress. This study provides evidence that they may exhibit behaviors that allow them to avoid high temperatures in a savanna environment, such as feeding and socializing at night during the hottest time of year and in the brightest moon phases. The results support theories invoking thermal stress as a selective pressure for hominins in open environments where heat would constrain temporal foraging niches, and suggest an adaptability of sleeping patterns in response to external factors.
Amygdala‐stimulation‐induced apnea is attention and nasal‐breathing dependent
Authors: Nobis William P. , Schuele Stephan , Templer Jessica W. , Zhou Guangyu , Lane Gregory , Rosenow Joshua M. , Zelano Christina
Published: February 2018

Objective

Evidence suggests that disordered breathing is critically involved in Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). To that end, evaluating structures that are activated by seizures and can activate brain regions that produce cardiorespiratory changes can further our understanding of the pathophysiology of SUDEP. Past preclinical studies have shown that electrical stimulation of the human amygdala induces apnea, suggesting a role for the amygdala in controlling respiration. In this study, we aimed to both confirm these findings in a larger group of patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and also further explore the anatomical and cognitive properties of this effect.

Methods

Seven surgical TLE patients had depth electrodes implanted in the amygdala that were used to deliver electrical stimulation during functional mapping preceding resection. Real‐time respiratory monitoring was performed in each patient to confirm apnea.

Results

Our data confirm that amygdala stimulation reliably induces apnea (occurring in all 7 patients) and further suggest that apnea can be overcome by instructing the patient to inhale, and can be prevented entirely by breathing through the mouth before electrical stimulation. Finally, stimulation‐induced apnea occurred only when stimulating the medial‐most amygdalar contacts located in the central nucleus.

Interpretation

These findings confirm a functional connection between the amygdala and respiratory control in humans. Moreover, they suggest specific amygdalar nuclei may be critical in mediating this effect and that attentional state is critical to apnea mediated by amygdala activation—perhaps alluding to future development of strategies for the prevention of SUDEP. Ann Neurol 2018;83:460–471
Crystalline‐Sponge‐Based Structural Analysis of Crude Natural Product Extracts
Authors: Wada Naoki , Kersten Roland D. , Iwai Takahiro , Lee Shoukou , Sakurai Fumie , Kikuchi Takashi , Fujita Daishi , Fujita Makoto , Weng Jing‐Ke
Published: February 2018

Characterization of complex natural product mixtures to the absolute structural level of their components often requires significant amounts of starting materials and lengthy purification process, followed by arduous structure elucidation efforts. The crystalline sponge (CS) method has demonstrated utility in the absolute structure elucidation of isolated organic compounds at miniscule quantities compared to conventional methods. In this work, we developed a new CS‐based workflow that greatly expedites the in‐depth structural analysis of crude natural product extracts. Using a crude extract of the red alga Laurencia pacifica, we showed that CS affinity screening prior to compound isolation enables prioritization of analytes present in the extract, and we subsequently resolved the molecular structures of six sesquiterpenes with stereochemical clarity from around 10 mg crude extract. This study demonstrates a new chemotyping workflow that can greatly accelerate natural product discovery from complex samples.
Pollen sleuthing for terrestrial plant surveys: Locating plant populations by exploiting pollen movement
Authors: Campbell Lesley G. , Melles Stephanie J. , Vaz Eric , Parker Rebecca J. , Burgess Kevin S.
Published: February 2018

Premise of the Study

We present an innovative technique for sampling, identifying, and locating plant populations that release pollen, without extensive ground surveys. This method (1) samples pollen at random locations within the target species’ habitat, (2) detects species’ presence using morphological pollen analysis, and (3) uses kriging to predict likely locations of populations to focus future search efforts.

Methods

To demonstrate, we applied the pollen sleuthing system to search for artificially constructed populations of Brassica rapa in an old field. Population size varied from 0–100 flowers labeled with artificial pollen (paint pellets). After characterizing the landscape, we pan‐trapped 2762 potential insect vectors from random locations across the field and washed particulate matter from their bodies to assess artificial pollen abundance with a microscope.

Results

Population size greatly influenced artificial pollen detection success; following random pollen trap sampling and interpolation, ground surveys would be best focused on identified areas with high pollen density and low variation in pollen density. Sampling sites most successfully detected artificial pollen when they were located at higher elevations, near showy flowering plants that were not grasses.

Discussion

Detection of nascent populations using the proposed system is possible but accuracy will depend on local environmental factors (e.g., wind, elevation). Conservation and invasive species control programs may be improved by using this approach.
Anatomical Basis of Differences in Locomotor Behavior in Martens: AComparison of the Forelimb Musculature Between Two Sympatric Species of Martes
Authors: Böhmer Christine , Fabre Anne‐Claire , Herbin Marc , Peigné Stéphane , Herrel Anthony
Published: February 2018

Arboreal locomotion imposes selective pressures that may affect the evolution of the locomotor apparatus. The limbs have to be mobile to reach across discontinuities, yet at the same time need to be forceful to move against gravity during climbing. However, as intermediaries between the arboreal and terrestrial environment, semi‐arboreal mammals appear not extremely specialized and, thus, anatomical adaptations may be less evident than expected for arboreal climbers. Here, we present quantitative data on the muscle anatomy of the forelimbs (N = 14) of two closely related species of Mustelidae and relate the findings to their locomotor habits. The arboreal pine marten (Martes martes) and the more terrestrial stone marten (Martes foina) are the most similar sympatric carnivores in Europe, but distinctly differ in habitat selection and locomotor mode. Via dissections muscle architectural variables including muscle mass, pennation angle, and fiber length were measured and the physiological cross‐sectional area and maximum isometric force were estimated for each muscle. The results reveal that the force‐generating capacity of the limb flexor and retractor muscles and the excursion capability of the adductor muscles are greater in the pine marten compared to the stone marten. Since the two sympatric martens are very similar in terms of overall appearance, body size, intra‐limb proportions, phylogenetic relationships and predation behavior, the differences in forelimb musculature are interpreted to reflect the greater climbing ability of the pine marten. The functional properties appear to facilitate locomotion in a three‐dimensionally complex arboreal environment. Anat Rec, 301:449–472, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Einfluss von Wärmedämm‐Verbundsystemen auf die Schalldämmung von Außenwänden
Authors: Weber Lutz , Müller Simon , Kaltbeitzel Bernd
Published: February 2018

Wärmedämm‐Verbundsysteme (WDVS) verbessern die thermische Isolation der Gebäudehülle und liefern damit einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Einsparung von Heizenergie. Sie wirken sich jedoch außerdem in erheblichem Maße auf die akustischen Eigenschaften der Außenwände aus, wobei je nach Ausführung sowohl eine Verbesserung als auch eine Verschlechterung der Schalldämmung erfolgen kann. Deshalb wurden bereits vor etwa fünfzehn Jahren Planungswerkzeuge entwickelt, mit denen sich die Schalldämmung von Wänden mit WDVS zuverlässig vorherberechnen lässt. Die hierzu verwendeten Berechnungsmodelle sind bis heute im Einsatz. Da sich die Bauweise von Außenwänden infolge der verschärfen Anforderungen an den Wärmeschutz seither erheblich verändert hat, waren ergänzende Untersuchungen erforderlich, um die bestehenden Modelle an die aktuellen Bauweisen anzupassen. In dem Beitrag werden die Ergebnisse des hierzu durchgeführten Forschungsvorhabens beschrieben, wobei der derzeitige Wissenstand zur Schalldämmung von Wänden mit WDVS in einer Übersicht zusammengefasst und auch auf den akustischen Einfluss von WDVS im Kontext der baulichen Gesamtsituation sowie auf die Bedeutung von Spektrum‐Anpassungswerten für den baulichen Schallschutz eingegangen wird. Eine Übersicht über sämtliche zur Vorhersage der Schalldämmung erforderlichen Formeln erleichtert die praktische Anwendung der entwickelten Berechnungsverfahren.
Electrochemical Analysis of Carbon Nanosheet Catalyst on Silicon Photocathode for Hydrogen Generation
Authors: An Junghyun , Jin Kyoungsuk , Sim Uk , Nam Ki Tae
Published: February 2018

The development of efficient cocatalysts indicates one of the most significant topics for the commercialization of photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution. The design and preparation of carbon‐based catalysts is a significant research part for inexpensive, environment‐friendly, and durable catalysts that may replace previously developed noble metal catalysts. Nevertheless, the challenge associated with the previous carbon‐based catalysts, such as graphene and graphene‐based materials, lies in the complicated and inefficient synthetic processes. Here, we suggest a biomimetic carbon nanosheet (CNS) as a new platform of hydrogen evolution catalyst for photoelectrochemical cell systems. The CNS is synthesized from polydopamine, which is an adhesive protein secreted by mussels. Active reaction sites for the hydrogen evolution in the CNS boost its catalytic activity with controllability. This significant enhancement of the photoelectrochemical performance with long‐term stability emphasizes the new potential for the application of biomimetic materials as a hydrogen evolution reaction catalyst as well as a molecular precursor.
Ultrasonic‐assisted Solution‐Phase Synthesis and Property Studies of Hierarchical Layer‐by‐Layer Mesoporous CeO2
Authors: Zhao Pu Su , Gao Xiu Mei , Zhu Feng Xia , Hu Xin Ming , Zhang Li Li
Published: February 2018

Hierarchical layer‐by‐layer quadrangle CeO2 was prepared through ultrasonic‐assisted solution‐phase synthesis strategy using cerium oxalate as the precursor. The as‐prepared mesoporous CeO2 displayed a surface area of 98.7 m2 g−1 and pore diameters of 2.0–10.0 nm. The high‐resolution TEM image revealed that the layer structures of the CeO2 were made of numerous nanocrystal particles with the crystallite size of about 13–15 nm. High energy and cavitation of ultrasonic wave assists cerium oxalate precursor in building the layer‐by‐layer quadrangle staking. UV–vis absorption spectrum showed that the direct allowed transition bandgap energy for the as‐prepared CeO2 was 2.91 eV. Moreover, the CeO2 exhibited good photocatalytic property for degrading Rhodamine B solution under UV radiation.
Lecture capture use in engineering education: Influence of students’ social and behavioral factors and teachers’ perceptions
Authors: Rahman Anisur , Shah Mohammad Aminur Rahman , Chowdhury Sanaul Huq
Published: February 2018

This paper discusses the influence of students’ social and behavioral features on lecture capture use in the learning of engineering courses, as well as teachers’ perceptions of pedagogical changes and students’ performance. Results show that the students’ perceptions about lecture capture are highly positive in terms of improving learning and academic performance. With respect to behavioral factors like attention deficit, the study suggests that a significant number of students having difficulties in maintaining attention during lectures and rely on lecture capture for further understanding. With respect to social factors, variation in the use of lecture capture has also been observed between native and non‐native English speaking students, and in students with different levels of past experience in using lecture capture. Lecturers of these engineering courses have expressed optimism about using lecture capture, and have raised concerns about restrictive teaching styles, and the requirement for technological improvements and adequate training.
The role of mitochondria in the female germline: Implications to fertility and inheritance of mitochondrial diseases
Authors: Chiaratti Marcos Roberto , Garcia Bruna Martins , Carvalho Karen Freire , Machado Thiago Simões , Ribeiro Fernanda Karina da Silva , Macabelli Carolina Habermann
Published: February 2018

Mitochondria play a fundamental role during development of the female germline. They are fragmented, round, and small. Despite these characteristics suggesting that they are inactive, there is accumulating evidence that mitochondrial dysfunctions are a major cause of infertility and generation of aneuploidies in humans. In addition, mitochondria and their own genomes (mitochondrial DNA—mtDNA) may become damaged with time, which might be one reason why aging leads to infertility. As a result, mitochondria have been proposed as an important target for evaluating oocyte and embryo quality, and developing treatments for female infertility. On the other hand, mutations in mtDNA may cause mitochondrial dysfunctions, leading to severe diseases that affect 1 in 4,300 people. Moreover, very low levels of mutated mtDNA seem to be present in every person worldwide. These may increase with time and associate with late‐onset degenerative diseases such as Parkinson disease, Alzheimer disease, and common cancers. Mutations in mtDNA are transmitted down the maternal lineage, following a poorly understood pattern of inheritance. Recent findings have indicated existence in the female germline of a purifying filter against deleterious mtDNA variants. Although the underlying mechanism of this filter is largely unknown, it has been suggested to rely on autophagic degradation of dysfunctional mitochondria or selective replication/transmission of non‐deleterious variants. Thus, understanding the mechanisms regulating mitochondrial inheritance is important both to improve diagnosis and develop therapeutic tools for preventing transmission of mtDNA‐encoded diseases.
Patent Blue dye allergy and the deep inferior epigastric perforator free flap: a unique interaction
Authors: Kumar Shanesh , Dhillon Raminder , Shah Snehal , White Dean C. , Rozen Warren Matthew
Published: February 2018

Key Clinical Message

Patent Blue dye for sentinel lymph node biopsy is associated with systemic allergic response and generalized blue hue. We report a unique case of successful free flap transfer in this setting. Despite inotropic support and abnormal blue hue, allergic response does not preclude safe flap transfer and monitoring.
Detectability of concentration‐dependent factors by application of PCA. An indicator curve for the determination of important principal components and a post‐correction for transformation of principal components to factors
Authors: Németh Zsolt István , Rákosa Rita
Published: February 2018

A semi empirical model of light absorption for binary liquid mixtures, which includes linear, parabolic, and periodic terms of concentration‐dependent factors, has been developed and applied for investigating the revealability of the factors. Concentration‐dependent near infrared spectra of ethanol‐water mixtures and a two‐component model were decomposed by principal component analysis. Generated from the principal component analysis results and called the mean coefficient of determination, an indicator is introduced for separating the important or systematic principal components with deterministic information (factor PCs) from stochastic principal components originating from spectral noise (error PCs). Moreover, a post‐correction method is proposed to pull the concentration‐dependent factor effects out of the systematic principal components. The first PC of ethanol‐water NIR mixture spectra defines the contributions of clusters of both water and ethanol molecules in the solution to resultant absorbance signals. The second PC includes partial absorptions from ethanol‐water dimers and ethanol‐water‐ethanol trimers. The third PC is assumed to reflect concentration‐dependent restructuring of mixture structure.
Synthesis of EU‐1/ZSM‐48 Co‐Crystalline Zeolites from High‐Silica EU‐1 Seeds: Tailoring Phase Proportions and Promoting Long Crystalline‐Phase Stability
Authors: Zhang Yafei , Liu Yasheng , Sun Liyuan , Zhang Luoming , Xu Jun , Deng Feng , Gong Yanjun
Published: February 2018

A facile, specific, seed‐assisted strategy for the synthesis of EU‐1/ZSM‐48 co‐crystalline zeolites in the presence of hexamethonium ions (HM2+) has been developed. EU‐1/ZSM‐48 co‐crystalline zeolites with various phase proportions, with EU‐1 in the range of 25 wt %–86 wt %, were obtained by adding high‐silica EU‐1 seeds (SiO2/Al2O3 ratio of 300) and adjusting the synthesis parameters. Not only can the phase proportions of EU‐1/ZSM‐48 co‐crystalline zeolites be controlled, but also the stability period for co‐crystallization of the two phases can be extended through varying the amount of EU‐1 seeds and the HM2+ template. Moreover, with the increase of the EU‐1 proportion in the EU‐1/ZSM‐48 co‐crystalline, the framework SiO2/Al2O3 ratios of EU‐1 phase promotes steadily. Major differences in acidity and textural properties of the EU‐1/ZSM‐48 co‐crystalline zeolites (Coz) were found with varying phase proportions, due to their distinct topological structures, crystal morphology and asymmetry between the EU‐1 and ZSM‐48 phases. For instance, the EU‐1/ZSM‐48 zeolite containing 75 wt % of EU‐1 (Coz‐75) possesses specific acidity and mesoporous characteristics, showing an excellent catalytic activity and stability in n‐hexane cracking reaction. Compared to EU‐1, ZSM‐48, and a mechanical mix of the two zeolites (Mix‐75), Coz‐75 resulted in the highest hexane conversion and yields of light olefins, with a propylene yield, in particular, up to 38.3 wt %, which is 6.3 % more than that of the Mix‐75 sample.
Designed ether‐functionalized acidic ionic liquid catalyst for butyl acetate synthesis
Authors: Feng Xiantao , Zhang Cai , Liu Yunling , Zuo Xiaoyong , Shi Haoxiang
Published: February 2018

We design and synthesize 1‐(methoxyethyl)‐3‐methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate ionic liquid ([MOE‐MIM]HSO4). The ionic liquid is characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, HNMR, 13CNMR, and FTIR spectrum. The synthesis of butyl acetate is based on an orthogonal array experimental design (OA9 matrix). A high conversion rate of acetic acid of 97.72 % is obtained under optimal reaction conditions. In addition, [MOE‐MIM]HSO4 exhibits low solubility in butanol and is immiscible with butyl acetate, thereby making it easily separated from the products. After reuse for five cycles, the catalytic activity of [MOE‐MIM]HSO4 is nearly unchanged.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Risperidone Subcutaneous Implants in Stable Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Dammerman Ryan , Kim Sonnie , Adera Mathews , Schwarz Alex
Published: February 2018

A subcutaneous risperidone implant (RI) formulation was developed to improve medication adherence in schizophrenia. Two phase 1 studies were conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of RI in adult patients with schizophrenia. In study 1, all subjects were stable on 4 mg oral risperidone; subsequently, the first subject received 375 mg RI for 1 month, and the remaining subjects received 375 mg RI for 3 months. In study 2, all subjects were stable on oral risperidone 4 mg, 6 mg, or 8 mg and subsequently received RI 480 mg, 720 mg, or 960 mg, respectively, for 6 months. Blood samples were collected at prespecified time points. Various pharmacokinetic parameters were determined in both studies. In both studies risperidone total active moiety plasma concentrations following RI increased slowly, reached therapeutic levels within approximately 2 days, and remained relatively stable. In study 1, the average concentration for RI was 81.3% of the oral trough concentration and 27.5% of the oral peak concentration. In study 2, the steady‐state concentration for RI was comparable to the oral trough concentration of the corresponding dose. Patient disease status remained stable with no major safety issues. RI may represent an alternative formulation for schizophrenia treatment with a lower peak‐to‐trough plasma drug ratio than oral risperidone.
Computer‐Aided Design and Synthesis of 1‐{4‐[(3,4‐Dihydroxybenzylidene)amino]phenyl}‐5‐oxopyrrolidine‐3‐carboxylic Acid as an Nrf2 Enhancer
Authors: Kahremany Shirin , Babaev Ilana , Hasin Pinhas , Tamir Tigist Y. , Ben‐Zur Tali , Cohen Guy , Jiang Zhengyu , Weintraub Sagiv , Offen Daniel , Rahimipour Shai , Major M. Ben , Senderowitz Hanoch , Gruzman Arie
Published: February 2018

The design and synthesis of a novel nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) enhancer is reported. Using a structure‐based virtual screening approach, several commercially available compounds were identified as having high probability to interact with the Nrf2‐binding pocket in the Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1). Keap1 is an adaptor protein that recruits Nrf2 to a cullin‐3‐dependent ubiquitin ligase complex. The identified compounds were tested against rat pheochromocytoma PC‐12 cells for their cytoprotective activity, and one compound (SKT359126) demonstrated an Nrf2‐mediated cell‐protective effect. Based on the structure of SKT359126, 23 novel derivatives were synthesized and evaluated. Of the screened derivatives, 1‐{4‐[(3,4‐dihydroxybenzylidene)amino]phenyl}‐5‐oxopyrrolidine‐3‐carboxylic acid demonstrated better activity than the parent molecules in activating the Nrf2 transduction pathway in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. This compound represents a promising starting point for the development of therapeutics for the treatment of oxidative‐stress‐related diseases.
Novel Biomarkers of Drug‐Induced Kidney Injury
Authors: Redahan Lynn , Murray Patrick T.
Published: February 2018

There is an expanding body of literature regarding the utility of novel biomarkers in drug‐induced kidney injury (DIKI) and other forms of acute kidney injury (AKI). The authors could not thoroughly review this topic without referring to and acknowledging this work. Included is a list of additional articles (see Supplementary Reading List) that have been referenced, but not cited within the body of the text. These references have provided data used within this article and have allowed the authors to discuss the epidemiology of DIKI, its classification, the utility of specific biomarkers, and the impact that comorbid illness and medications can have on their levels.
Photoswitchable Azobenzene/Cyclodextrin Host‐Guest Complexes: From UV‐ to Visible/Near‐IR‐Light‐Responsive Systems
Authors: Wang Dongsheng , Zhao Weifeng , Wei Qiang , Zhao Changsheng , Zheng Yonghao
Published: February 2018

UV‐light‐responsive azobenzene (Azo)/cyclodextrin (CD) host‐guest complexes are attractive for designing smart stimuli‐responsive materials, and have been extensively investigated over the past three decades. However, when applied in biomedical fields, as a result of the harmfulness and poor penetrability of UV light to human tissue, Azo/CD host‐guest complexes responsive to light of longer wavelengths is required. In this Minireview, we reviewed the traditional UV‐light‐responsive Azo/CD host‐guest systems and developments to red‐shift the switching light to the visible or even to the near‐infrared (NIR) light region. “Indirect” methods, including upconversion and two‐photon processes, and “direct” methods to chemically modify Azo molecules for red‐shifting the inducing light were summarized and compared. In addition to biomedical applications, we provide an overview of the potential of visible/NIR‐light‐responsive Azo/CD host–guest complexes in the design of intelligent multifunctional supramolecular materials that function through orthogonal light control.
Proactive caching with content‐based pricing for cooperative femtocells in two‐tier heterogeneous networks
Authors: Karar Sandip , Das Barman Abhirup
Published: February 2018

With increase in the number of smart wireless devices, the demand for higher data rates also grows which puts immense pressure to the network. A vast majority of this demand comes from video files, and it is observed that only a few popular video files are requested more frequently during any specified time interval. Recent studies have shown that caching provides a better performance as it minimizes the network load by avoiding the fetching of same files multiple times from the server. In this paper, we propose to combine two ideas; proactive caching of files and content‐based pricing in macro‐femto heterogeneous networks. The femtocell access point (FAP) is allowed to manipulate its users' demand through content‐based pricing and serve the users' requests by proactively downloading suitable content into its cache memory which reduces the load of the femtocell. In addition, an incentive mechanism is also proposed which encourages the FAP to help macrocell users under its coverage zone by allowing access to its cached content and thereby reduces the macrocell load. The proposed content‐based pricing and proactive caching scheme for femtocells is modeled as a Stackelberg game among the macrocell base station and the FAP to jointly maximize both of their utilities. Performance analysis of the scheme is presented for a single femtocell scenario and compared with the conventional flat pricing‐based scheme via numerical examples. The results demonstrate significant reduction in network load using our proposed scheme.
How many individuals achieve symptom abstinence following psychological treatments for bulimia nervosa? A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Linardon Jake , Wade Tracey D.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

It is unclear how many patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) completely abstain from the core behavioral symptoms after receiving psychological treatment. The present meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to (a) estimate the prevalence of patients who abstain from binge eating and/or purging following all psychological treatments for BN, and (b) test whether these abstinence estimates are moderated by the type of treatment modality delivered, the definition of abstinence applied, and trial quality.

Method

Forty‐five RCTs were included, with 78 psychotherapy conditions. Pooled event rates were calculated using random effects models.

Results

At post‐treatment, the total weighted percentage of treatment‐completers who achieved abstinence was 35.4% (95% CI = 29.6, 41.7), while the total weighted percentage of abstinence for all randomized patients (intention‐to‐treat) was 29.9% (95% CI = 25.7, 33.2). Abstinence estimates were highest in trials that used behavioral‐based treatments (e.g., cognitive–behavioral therapy, behavior therapy). There was also evidence that guided self‐help interventions produced the lowest post‐treatment abstinence rates, but with no difference at follow‐up from clinician‐led treatments, and studies that used a shorter timeframe for defining abstinence (i.e., 14 days symptom‐free compared to 28‐days symptom‐free) produced the highest abstinence rates. Abstinence estimates at follow‐up for both the completer (34.6%; 95% CI = 29.3, 40.2) and intention‐to‐treat (28.6%; 95% CI = 25.1, 32.3) analyses were essentially the same as the post‐treatment estimates.

Discussion

Over 60% of patients fail to fully abstain from core BN symptoms even after receiving our most empirically‐supported treatments. The present findings highlight the urgency toward improving the effectiveness of psychological treatments for BN.
A Simple and Highly Selective Determination of Telmisartan at Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Modified Pyrolytic Graphite Surface
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Goyal Rajendra N.
Published: February 2018

A simple, facile, selective and cost effective electrochemical method is proposed for the determination of telmisartan (TMS); a drug used for hypertension. A sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) modified edge plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG) is prepared by simple immersion of EPPG in SDS solution at concentration greater than critical micelle concentration (CMC). The modified sensor exhibited superior sensing properties towards the oxidation of TMS. The modified surface was characterized by using the Energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The quantitative investigations of the TMS were performed by applying the square wave voltammetry. The micelles of SDS form a pseudo complex with cation radical of TMS and catalyse the oxidation. The proposed sensor shows the linear calibration plot in the concentration range of 5–100 μM with sensitivity 0.2983 μA/μM and the limit of the detection of the sensor was found to be 0.082 μM. The specificity of the developed sensor was also evaluated in the presence of commonly present interfering substances in biological samples. The amount of TMS excreted in urine of the patients undergoing treatment has also been determined. The proposed method can be effectively applied for the investigation of TMS in pharmaceutical formulations and biological samples.