bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the dynamic smoothing of mountains
Authors: Bonetti S. , Porporato A.
Published: May 2017

After their formation, mountainous landscapes gradually evolve toward smoother geometries controlled by the interplay of erosion and sedimentation. The statistical mechanical properties of this process and the link between topography and geology have remained largely unexplored. We analyze the slope statistics of different mountains worldwide, showing that landscape age is fingerprinted in their distribution tails. Data reveal a universal relaxation process, through an algebraic decay progressively replaced by an exponential one, with exponents described by a global monotonic function. We then investigate the dominant components of this dynamic smoothing using a landscape evolution model, showing that the time evolution of slope statistics results from a delicate balance between diffusive soil creep, noise, and advective river incision, with the relaxation phase mainly dominated by diffusion. Results may suggest ways to formulate reduced order topographic evolution models for geomorphological and climatological applications, and to explore similarities in surface evolution in different contexts.
Vertically uniform formation pathways of tropospheric sulfate aerosols in East China detected from triple stable oxygen and radiogenic sulfur isotopes
Authors: Lin Mang , Biglari Saman , Zhang Zhisheng , Crocker Daniel , Tao Jun , Su Binbin , Liu Lanzhong , Thiemens Mark H.
Published: May 2017

Sulfate aerosols (SO42−) in the continental outflow from East China significantly alter the atmospheric sulfur budget across the Pacific Rim, but its formation pathways, especially in the free troposphere (FT), remain poorly understood. Here we analyze stable oxygen (δ17O and δ18O) and radiogenic sulfur (35S) isotopes in SO42− collected at a mountain site in East China to investigate SO42− formation pathways at varying altitudes. We find that Δ17O (=δ17O‐0.52 × δ18O) in SO42− is not correlated with 35S (a direct measure of high‐altitude air masses). This pattern notably differs from the currently known 35S‐Δ17O relation. The result implies that the formation pathway of tropospheric SO42− in East China is vertically uniform, likely due to large emissions and active convection in this region. Our measurements provide unambiguous isotopic constraints for reducing uncertainties in modeling SO42− in the FT over East China, which greatly affects regional climate but current models fail to accurately estimate.
Image‐based modeling of granular porous media
Authors: Tahmasebi Pejman , Sahimi Muhammad , Andrade José E.
Published: May 2017

We propose a new method of modeling granular media that utilizes a single two‐ or three‐dimensional image and is formulated based on a Markov process. The process is mapped onto one that minimizes the difference between the image and a stochastic realization of the granular medium and utilizes a novel approach to remove possible unphysical discontinuities in the realization. Quantitative comparison between the morphological properties of the realizations and representative examples indicates excellent agreement.
Remote measurement of high preeruptive water vapor emissions at Sabancaya volcano by passive differential optical absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Kern Christoph , Masias Pablo , Apaza Fredy , Reath Kevin A. , Platt Ulrich
Published: May 2017

Water (H2O) is by far the most abundant volcanic volatile species and plays a predominant role in driving volcanic eruptions. However, numerous difficulties associated with making accurate measurements of water vapor in volcanic plumes have limited their use as a diagnostic tool. Here we present the first detection of water vapor in a volcanic plume using passive visible‐light differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS). Ultraviolet and visible‐light DOAS measurements were made on 21 May 2016 at Sabancaya Volcano, Peru. We find that Sabancaya's plume contained an exceptionally high relative water vapor abundance 6 months prior to its November 2016 eruption. Our measurements yielded average sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rates of 800–900 t/d, H2O emission rates of around 250,000 t/d, and an H2O/SO2 molecular ratio of 1000 which is about an order of magnitude larger than typically found in high‐temperature volcanic gases. We attribute the high water vapor emissions to a boiling‐off of Sabancaya's hydrothermal system caused by intrusion of magma to shallow depths. This hypothesis is supported by a significant increase in the thermal output of the volcanic edifice detected in infrared satellite imagery leading up to and after our measurements. Though the measurement conditions encountered at Sabancaya were very favorable for our experiment, we show that visible‐light DOAS systems could be used to measure water vapor emissions at numerous other high‐elevation volcanoes. Such measurements would provide observatories with additional information particularly useful for forecasting eruptions at volcanoes harboring significant hydrothermal systems.
Gibberellins and Seed Germination
Authors: Urbanova Terezie , Leubner‐Metzger Gerhard
Published: May 2017

Gibberellins (GA) promote seed germination, but they are not simple 'Go Ahead' (GA) molecules as the insight gained into the molecular mechanisms underlying their role in seeds appears to be complex. This chapter covers their central role in mediating the environmental and developmental control of seed germination, and how this differs from vegetative growth processes. Spatiotemporal patterns of GA metabolism and GID1‐type receptor signalling in the key seed compartments determine tissue interactions and germination timing in response to ambient environmental cues. Gibberellins are key players in seed temperature responses; during thermoinhibition they interact with other hormonal pathways. Allelochemicals such as myrigalone A inhibit seed germination by specific interference with GA metabolism and signalling. This reveals important ecophysiological roles for GAs in seeds and suggests that they are fundamental for studying species adaptation and interaction in natural and agricultural ecosystems upon climate change.
Gibberellins and Plant Vegetative Growth
Authors: Martínez Cristina , Espinosa‐Ruiz Ana , Prat Salomé
Published: May 2017

Gibberellins (GAs) control multiple developmental processes throughout the plant life cycle. GA action relies on the degradation of the DELLA repressors, which modulate the activity of several families of transcription factors. In recent years, our knowledge of DELLAs mode of action has increased exponentially, and a novel transcriptional activation function for these repressors has also been reported. Control of cell elongation by these hormones has been dissected at the molecular level, and a role of GAs in cell division has been definitely established. At the physiological level, important progress has been made towards understanding how GAs modulate different developmental processes and extensive cross‐talk interaction with other hormonal pathways, such as brassinosteroids, auxin, ethylene, or jasmonates could be unveiled. GA tissue‐specific distribution has been demonstrated, and the first GA transporters have been identified. Here, we discuss recent findings concerning the function of GAs in the control of shoot and root growth, and responses to stress during plant vegetative growth.
Long‐term dosimetric stability of multiple TomoTherapy delivery systems
Authors: Smilowitz Jennifer B. , Dunkerley David , Hill Patrick M. , Yadav Poonam , Geurts Mark W.
Published: May 2017

The dosimetric stability of six TomoTherapy units was analyzed to investigate changes in performance over time and with system upgrades. Energy and output were tracked using monitor chamber signal, onboard megavoltage computed tomography (MVCT) detector profile, and external ion chamber measurements. The systems (and monitoring periods) include three Hi‐Art (67, 61, and 65 mos.), two TomoHDA (31 and 26 mos.), and one Radixact unit (11 mos.), representing approximately 10 years of clinical use. The four newest systems use the Dose Control Stability (DCS) system and Fixed Target Linear Accelerator (linac) (FTL). The output stability is reported as deviation from reference monitor chamber signal for all systems and/or from an external chamber signal. The energy stability was monitored using relative (center versus off‐axis) MVCT detector signal (beam profile) and/or the ratio of chamber measurements at 2 depths. The clinical TomoHDA data were used to benchmark the Radixact stability, which has the same FTL but runs at a higher dose rate. The output based on monitor chamber data of all systems is very stable. The standard deviation of daily output on the non‐DCS systems was 0.94–1.52%. As expected, the DCS systems had improved standard deviation: 0.004–0.06%. The beam energy was also very stable for all units. The standard deviation in profile flatness was 0.23–0.62% for rotating target systems and 0.04–0.09% for FTL. Ion chamber output and PDD ratios supported these results. The output stability on the Radixact system during extended treatment delivery (20, 30, and 40 min) was comparable to a clinical TomoHDA system. For each system, results are consistent between different measurement tools and techniques, proving not only the dosimetric stability, but also these quality parameters can be confirmed with various metrics. The replacement history over extended time periods of the major dosimetric components of the different delivery systems (target, linac, and magnetron) is also reported.
Maximized Effective Energy Output of Contact‐Separation‐Triggered Triboelectric Nanogenerators as Limited by Air Breakdown
Authors: Zi Yunlong , Wu Changsheng , Ding Wenbo , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: May 2017

Recent progress in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has demonstrated their promising potential as a high‐efficiency mechanical energy harvesting technology, and plenty of effort has been devoted to improving the power output by maximizing the triboelectric surface charge density. However, due to high‐voltage air breakdown, most of the enhanced surface charge density brought by material/surface optimization or external ion injection is not retainable or usable for electricity generation during the operation of contact‐separation‐triggered TENGs. Here, the existence of the air breakdown effect in a contact‐separation mode TENG with a low threshold surface charge density of ≈40–50 µC m−2 is first validated under the high impedance external load, and then followed by the theoretical study of the maximized effective energy output as limited by air breakdown for contact‐separation‐triggered TENGs. The effects of air pressure and gas composition are also studied and propose promising solutions for reducing the air breakdown effect. This research provides a crucial fundamental study for TENG technology and its further development and applications.
Extrusion Bioprinting of Shear‐Thinning Gelatin Methacryloyl Bioinks
Authors: Liu Wanjun , Heinrich Marcel A. , Zhou Yixiao , Akpek Ali , Hu Ning , Liu Xiao , Guan Xiaofei , Zhong Zhe , Jin Xiangyu , Khademhosseini Ali , Zhang Yu Shrike
Published: May 2017

Bioprinting is an emerging technique for the fabrication of 3D cell‐laden constructs. However, the progress for generating a 3D complex physiological microenvironment has been hampered by a lack of advanced cell‐responsive bioinks that enable bioprinting with high structural fidelity, particularly in the case of extrusion‐based bioprinting. Herein, this paper reports a novel strategy to directly bioprint cell‐laden gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) constructs using bioinks of GelMA physical gels (GPGs) achieved through a simple cooling process. Attributed to their shear‐thinning and self‐healing properties, the GPG bioinks can retain the shape and form integral structures after deposition, allowing for subsequent UV crosslinking for permanent stabilization. This paper shows the structural fidelity by bioprinting various 3D structures that are typically challenging to fabricate using conventional bioinks under extrusion modes. Moreover, the use of the GPG bioinks enables direct bioprinting of highly porous and soft constructs at relatively low concentrations (down to 3%) of GelMA. It is also demonstrated that the bioprinted constructs not only permit cell survival but also enhance cell proliferation as well as spreading at lower concentrations of the GPG bioinks. It is believed that such a strategy of bioprinting will provide many opportunities in convenient fabrication of 3D cell‐laden constructs for applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and pharmaceutical screening.
Tunable Transfer of Molecules between Liquid Crystal Microdroplets and Control of Photonic Crystallinity in Isolated Microdroplets
Authors: Guo Jin‐Kun , Vij Jagdish K. , Song Jang‐Kun
Published: May 2017

Selective molecular transfer among living cells or organs is involved in all vital processes; however, the artificial molecule transfer technology, an innovative tool in optical devices and materials science, is still at an early stage of development. Here, this paper demonstrates the controlled in situ molecular transfer between the heterogeneous liquid crystal (LC) microdroplets in an LC emulsion. Chiral dopants can be transferred between nematic and cholesteric LC droplets, which are the receiver and supplier of chiral molecules, respectively, and a continuous phase with tunable solubility acts as the switchable transfer channel. The molecular transfer is visually monitored by the topological transition and the change in the photonic crystalline reflection colors of the LC droplets. These enable to continuously record and manipulate the topological evolution and structural color. This technology may be applicable to other systems in optical applications, materials science, and biology.
Optically Switchable Luminescent Hydrogel by Synergistically Intercalating Photochromic Molecular Rotor into Inorganic Clay
Authors: Liu Guoxing , Zhang Ying‐Ming , Xu Xiufang , Zhang Lu , Liu Yu
Published: May 2017

Photomodulated luminescent hydrogels are of great potential for construction of functional soft materials. Herein a simple yet effective approach, by synergistically intercalating the dithienylethene‐bridged bispyridinium dye into the inorganic clay of Laponite, is proposed to immobilize the dye's molecular conformation and then to activate the hydrogel's fluorescence emission. The incorporation with dithienylethene unit can not only increase the π‐conjugation of organic dye but also endow the obtained supramolecular hydrogel with desirable photoswitchable capability. It can be envisioned that this organic–inorganic hybrid hydrogel featuring reversible luminescence switching behavior, high water content, good transparency, and mouldability may offer a practical strategy to create more advanced intelligent materials.
Integrated Sustainable Wind Power Harvesting and Ultrahigh Energy Density Wire‐Shaped Supercapacitors Based on Vertically Oriented Nanosheet‐Array‐Coated Carbon Fibers
Authors: Shi Minjie , Yang Cheng , Song Xuefeng , Zhao Liping , Liu Jing , Zhang Peng , Gao Lian
Published: May 2017

Wind power harvesting in conjunction with supercapacitors (SCs) has attracted considerable attention. Nevertheless, the bottleneck in this field is how to develop SCs with low electrical resistance and high energy density. Herein, an ingenious strategy to integrate wind power harvesting and asymmetric wire‐shaped SCs (WSSCs) has been put forward for the first time. Remarkably, the asymmetric WSSCs are realized by using vertical FeOOH and CoNi2S4 nanosheet‐array‐coated flexible carbon fibers as negative and positive yarn electrodes, in which a vertically oriented and cross‐linked porous network, formed by electroactive nanosheet arrays, facilitates ionic diffusion and charge transport. Benefiting from an intriguing configuration, these asymmetric WSSCs, with superior flexibility and weavability, act as efficient energy storage devices, which exhibit low resistance, high volumetric energy density (3.2 mWh cm‐3), and strong durability (91.2% after 20 000 cycles). As a result, two serial WSSCs with a high voltage of 3 V can be effectively recharged, by harvesting a sustainable wind source, and repeatedly supplying power to the lamp without decline of electrochemical performance. Therefore, this work throws light on a new avenue for the development of sustainable energy harvesting and wearable energy storage.
Ultrasmall Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles with High Specificity for Targeted Cancer Cell Imaging
Authors: Feng Guangxue , Liu Jie , Liu Rongrong , Mao Duo , Tomczak Nikodem , Liu Bin
Published: May 2017

Fluorescent and biocompatible organic nanoparticles have attracted great interest in cancer detection and imaging, but the nonspecific cellular uptake has limited the detection specificity and sensitivity. Herein, the authors report the ultrasmall conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPNs) with bright far‐red/near‐infrared emission for targeted cancer imaging with high specificity. The sizes of the ultrasmall CPNs are around 6 nm (CPN6), while large CPNs show sizes around 30 nm (CPN30). Moreover, CPN6 exhibits largely improved fluorescence quantum yield (η) of 41% than CPN30 (25%). Benefiting from the ultrasmall size, bare CPN6 shows largely suppressed nonspecific cellular uptake as compared to CPN30, while cyclic arginine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (cRGD) functionalized CPN6 (cRGD‐CPN6) possesses excellent selectivity toward αvβ3 integrin overexpressed MDA‐MB‐231 cells over other cells in cell mixtures. The faster body clearance of CPN6 over CPN30 indicates its greater potentials as a noninvasive nanoprobe for in vivo and practical applications.
K‐Ion Batteries Based on a P2‐Type K0.6CoO2 Cathode
Authors: Kim Haegyeom , Kim Jae Chul , Bo Shou‐Hang , Shi Tan , Kwon Deok‐Hwang , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: May 2017

K‐ion batteries are a potentially exciting and new energy storage technology that can combine high specific energy, cycle life, and good power capability, all while using abundant potassium resources. The discovery of novel cathodes is a critical step toward realizing K‐ion batteries (KIBs). In this work, a layered P2‐type K0.6CoO2 cathode is developed and highly reversible K ion intercalation is demonstrated. In situ X‐ray diffraction combined with electrochemical titration reveals that P2‐type K0.6CoO2 can store and release a considerable amount of K ions via a topotactic reaction. Despite the large amount of phase transitions as function of K content, the cathode operates highly reversibly and with good rate capability. The practical feasibility of KIBs is further demonstrated by constructing full cells with a graphite anode. This work highlights the potential of KIBs as viable alternatives for Li‐ion and Na‐ion batteries and provides new insights and directions for the development of next‐generation energy storage systems.
Quinone Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Lithium/Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Yiwen , Zeng Ronghua , Nan Junmin , Shu Dong , Qiu Yongcai , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: May 2017

Organic electrode materials bring about new possibilities for the next generation green and sustainable lithium/sodium ion batteries (LIBs/SIBs) owing to their low cost, environmental benignity, renewability, flexibility, redox stability and structural diversity. However, electroactive organic compounds face many challenges in practical applications for LIBs/SIBs, such as high solubility in organic electrolytes, poor electronic conductivity, and low discharge potential as postive materials. Quinone organic materials are the most promising candidates as electrodes in LIBs/SIBs because of their high theoretical capacity, good reaction reversibility and high resource availability. While quinone electrode materials (QEMs) have so far received less attention in comparison with other organic electrode materials in secondary batteries. In this paper, an overview of the recent developments in the field of QEMs for LIBs/SIBs is provided, emphasizing on the modifications of the quinone compounds in solubility, electronic conductivity, and discharge plateaus. Finally, multifaceted modification approaches are analyzed, which can stimulate the practical applications of QEMs for LIBs/SIBs.
Biomimetic Spider‐Web‐Like Composites for Enhanced Rate Capability and Cycle Life of Lithium Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Bhattacharya Pallab , Kota Manikantan , Suh Dong Hoon , Roh Kwang Chul , Park Ho Seok
Published: May 2017

It is crucial to control the structure and composition of composite anode materials to enhance the cell performance of such anode materials for lithium ion batteries. Herein, a biomimetic strategy is demonstrated for the design of high performance anode materials, inspired by the structural characteristics and working principles of sticky spider‐webs. Hierarchically porous, sticky, spider‐web‐like multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) networks are prepared through a process involving ozonation, ice‐templating assembly, and thermal treatment, thereby integrating the networks with γ‐Fe2O3 particles. The spider‐web‐like MWCNT/γ‐Fe2O3 composite network not only traps the active γ‐Fe2O3 materials tightly but also provides fast charge transport through the 3D internetworked pathways and the mechanical integrity. Consequently, the composite web shows a high capacity of ≈822 mA h g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, fast rate capability with ≈72.3% retention at rates from 0.05 to 1 A g−1, and excellent cycling stability of >88% capacity retention after 310 cycles with a Coulombic efficiency >99%. These remarkable electrochemical performances are attributed to the complementarity of the 3D spider‐web‐like structure with the strong attachment of γ‐Fe2O3 particles on the sticky surface. This synthetic strategy offers an environmentally safe, simple, and cost‐effective avenue for the biomimetic design of high performance energy storage materials.
Social networks dynamics revealed by temporal analysis: An example in a non‐human primate (Macaca sylvanus) in “La Forêt des Singes”
Authors: Sosa Sebastian , Zhang Peng , Cabanes Guénaël
Published: May 2017

This study applied a temporal social network analysis model to describe three affiliative social networks (allogrooming, sleep in contact, and triadic interaction) in a non‐human primate species, Macaca sylvanus. Three main social mechanisms were examined to determine interactional patterns among group members, namely preferential attachment (i.e., highly connected individuals are more likely to form new connections), triadic closure (new connections occur via previous close connections), and homophily (individuals interact preferably with others with similar attributes). Preferential attachment was only observed for triadic interaction network. Triadic closure was significant in allogrooming and triadic interaction networks. Finally, gender homophily was seasonal for allogrooming and sleep in contact networks, and observed in each period for triadic interaction network. These individual‐based behaviors are based on individual reactions, and their analysis can shed light on the formation of the affiliative networks determining ultimate coalition networks, and how these networks may evolve over time. A focus on individual behaviors is necessary for a global interactional approach to understanding social behavior rules and strategies. When combined, these social processes could make animal social networks more resilient, thus enabling them to face drastic environmental changes. This is the first study to pinpoint some of the processes underlying the formation of a social structure in a non‐human primate species, and identify common mechanisms with humans. The approach used in this study provides an ideal tool for further research seeking to answer long‐standing questions about social network dynamics.
Extraction of honey from underground bee nests by central African chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes troglodytes) in Loango National Park, Gabon: Techniques and individual differences
Authors: Estienne Vittoria , Stephens Colleen , Boesch Christophe
Published: May 2017

A detailed analysis of tool use behaviors can disclose the underlying cognitive traits of the users. We investigated the technique used by wild chimpanzees to extract the underground nests of stingless bees (Meliplebeia lendliana), which represent a hard‐to‐reach resource given their highly undetectable location. Using remote‐sensor camera trap footage, we analyzed 151 visits to 50 different bee nests by 18 adult chimpanzees of both sexes. We quantified the degree of complexity and flexibility of this technique by looking at the behavioral repertoire and at its structural organization. We used Generalized Linear Mixed Models to test whether individuals differed in their action repertoire sizes and in their action sequencing patterns, as well as in their preferences of use of different behavioral elements (namely, actions, and grip types). We found that subjects showed non‐randomly organized sequences of actions and that the occurrence of certain actions was predicted by the type of the previous action in the sequences. Subjects did not differ in their repertoire sizes, and all used extractive actions involving tools more often than manual digging. As for the type of grip employed, the grip involving the coordinated use of hands and feet together was most frequently used by all subjects when perforating, and we detected significant individual preferences in this domain. Overall, we describe a highly complex and flexible extractive technique, and propose the existence of inter‐individual variation in it. We discuss our results in the light of the evolution of higher cognitive abilities in the human lineage.
A tale of agriculturalists and hunter‐gatherers: Exploring the thrifty genotype hypothesis in native South Americans
Authors: Reales Guillermo , Rovaris Diego L. , Jacovas Vanessa C. , Hünemeier Tábita , Sandoval José R. , Salazar‐Granara Alcibiades , Demarchi Darío A. , Tarazona‐Santos Eduardo , Felkl Aline B. , Serafini Michele A. , Salzano Francisco M. , Bisso‐Machado Rafael , Comas David , Paixão‐Côrtes Vanessa R. , Bortolini Maria Cátira
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To determine genetic differences between agriculturalist and hunter‐gatherer southern Native American populations for selected metabolism‐related markers and to test whether Neel's thrifty genotype hypothesis (TGH) could explain the genetic patterns observed in these populations.

Materials and Methods

375 Native South American individuals from 17 populations were genotyped using six markers (APOE rs429358 and rs7412; APOA2 rs5082; CD36 rs3211883; TCF7L2 rs11196205; and IGF2BP2 rs11705701). Additionally, APOE genotypes from 39 individuals were obtained from the literature. AMOVA, main effects, and gene‐gene interaction tests were performed.

Results

We observed differences in allele distribution patterns between agriculturalists and hunter‐gatherers for some markers. For instance, between‐groups component of genetic variance (FCT) for APOE rs429358 showed strong differences in allelic distributions between hunter‐gatherers and agriculturalists (p = 0.00196). Gene‐gene interaction analysis indicated that the APOE E4/CD36 TT and APOE E4/IGF2BP2 A carrier combinations occur at a higher frequency in hunter‐gatherers, but this combination is not replicated in archaic (Neanderthal and Denisovan) and ancient (Anzick, Saqqaq, Ust‐Ishim, Mal'ta) hunter‐gatherer individuals.

Discussion

A complex scenario explains the observed frequencies of the tested markers in hunter‐gatherers. Different factors, such as pleotropic alleles, rainforest selective pressures, and population dynamics, may be collectively shaping the observed genetic patterns. We conclude that although TGH seems a plausible hypothesis to explain part of the data, other factors may be important in our tested populations.
Many‐body localization in incommensurate models with a mobility edge
Authors: Deng Dong‐Ling , Ganeshan Sriram , Li Xiaopeng , Modak Ranjan , Mukerjee Subroto , Pixley J. H.
Published: May 2017

We review the physics of many‐body localization in models with incommensurate potentials. In particular, we consider one‐dimensional quasiperiodic models with single‐particle mobility edges. A conventional perspective suggests that delocalized states act as a thermalizing bath for the localized states in the presence of of interactions. However, contrary to this intuition there is evidence that such systems can display non‐ergodicity. This is in part due to the fact that the delocalized states do not have any kind of protection due to symmetry or topology and are thus susceptible to localization. A study of such incommensurate models, in the non‐interacting limit, shows that they admit extended, partially extended, and fully localized many‐body states. Non‐interacting incommensurate models cannot thermalize dynamically and remain localized upon the introduction of interactions. In particular, for a certain range of energy, the system can host a non‐ergodic extended (i.e. metallic) phase in which the energy eigenstates violate the eigenstate thermalization hypothesis (ETH) but the entanglement entropy obeys volume‐law scaling. The level statistics and entanglement growth also indicate the lack of ergodicity in these models. The phenomenon of localization and non‐ergodicity in a system with interactions despite the presence of single‐particle delocalized states is closely related to the so‐called “many‐body proximity effect” and can also be observed in models with disorder coupled to systems with delocalized degrees of freedom. Many‐body localization in systems with incommensurate potentials (without single‐particle mobility edges) have been realized experimentally, and we show how this can be modified to study the the effects of such mobility edges. Demonstrating the failure of thermalization in the presence of a single‐particle mobility edge in the thermodynamic limit would indicate a more robust violation of the ETH.

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DNA‐Filme mit der künstlichen Nucleobase Imidazol vermitteln Ladungstransfer in einer Silber(I)‐abhängigen Weise
Authors: Léon J. Christian , She Zhe , Kamal Ajar , Shamsi Mohtashim Hassan , Müller Jens , Kraatz Heinz‐Bernhard
Published: May 2017

Erstmals wurden DNA‐Filme mit künstlichen Nucleobasen sequenzabhängig auf den Ladungstransferwiderstand (RCT) der metallmodifizierten DNA hin untersucht. Das Imidazol‐Desoxyribonucleosid (Im) wurde als hochgradig AgI‐spezifisches Ligandosid zur Bildung von Im‐AgI‐Im‐Komplexen innerhalb der Doppelhelices genutzt. Dieser neue Typ positionsspezifisch metallmodifizierter DNA‐Film wurde mit UV‐, Circulardichroismus‐ (CD) und Röntgenphotoelektronenspektroskopie (XPS) charakterisiert. Die elektrochemischen Eigenschaften wurden mittels Elektronenimpedanzspektroskopie und elektrochemischer Rastermikroskopie untersucht. Zusammengenommen deuten die Experimente darauf hin, dass die Einlagerung von AgI in die DNA‐Filme zu einem reduzierten Elektronentransfer durch die Filme führt. Wir schlagen eine einfache Anordnung vor, die reversibel zwischen zwei verschiedenen Zuständen mit unterschiedlichem Ladungstransferwiderstand geschaltet werden kann.
Stabilizing Fluorine–π Interactions
Authors: Li Ping , Maier Josef M. , Vik Erik C. , Yehl Christopher J. , Dial Brent E. , Rickher Amanda E. , Smith Mark D. , Pellechia Perry J. , Shimizu Ken D.
Published: May 2017

A series of N‐arylimide molecular balances were designed to study and measure fluorine–aromatic (F–π) interactions. Fluorine substituents gave rise to increasingly more stabilizing interactions with more electron‐deficient aromatic surfaces. The attractive F–π interaction is electrostatically driven and is stronger than other halogen–π interactions.
The Effects of Two Different Exercise Programs on the Ultrastructural Features of the Sciatic Nerve and Soleus Muscle After Sciatic Crush
Authors: Bonetti Leandro Viçosa , Malysz Taís , Ilha Jocemar , Barbosa Silvia , Achaval Matilde , Faccioni‐Heuser Maria Cristina
Published: May 2017

Peripheral nerve injuries constitute a significant medical problem and the recovery is critically dependent on post‐injury treatment. In this study, following sciatic nerve crush, we investigated the effects of a 4‐week endurance training program (ET) and balance and coordination training program (BCT) on the ultrastructural features of the sciatic nerve and soleus muscle. The animals were randomly divided into Sham, non‐trained (NT), ET, and BCT groups each of which included three animals. Ultra‐thin cross and longitudinal sections (70–85 nm) were digitized and analyzed comparatively. The electron micrographic analysis of the sciatic nerve showed similar organelles features in the injury groups (myelin debris and swelling mitochondria). Nonetheless, the ET group presented better ultrastructural features as demonstrated by the greater predominance of rounded fibers and more defined organization in the myelinated axon bundles. In the soleus muscle's analyses, the injured groups demonstrated similar organelles' features (nucleus contained highly heterochromatic nuclei and smaller mitochondria). However, ET and BCT groups showed apparently enlarged myofibril cross‐sectional areas and less collagen around muscle fibers, although, the ET group displayed reduced intermyofibrillar spaces and more closely aligned myofilaments when compared with the BCT group. Based on electron micrographic analysis, our findings suggest the presence of ultrastructural differences between the Sham, NT, and the trained groups. Therefore, exercise type seems to be responsible for producing some different positive features in the trained groups, while ET seems to have a more pronounced influence on the ultrastructural features of the sciatic nerve and the soleus muscle after a crush injury. Anat Rec, 300:1654–1661, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
New Anti‐Seizure (Arylalkyl)azole Derivatives: Synthesis, In Vivo and In Silico Studies
Authors: Sari Suat , Dalkara Sevim , Kaynak Filiz Betül , Reynisson Jóhannes , Saraç Selma , Karakurt Arzu
Published: May 2017

(Arylalkyl)azoles are a class of antiepileptic compounds including nafimidone, denzimol, and loreclezole (LRZ). Nafimidone and denzimol are thought to inhibit voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSCs) and enhance γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐mediated response. LRZ, a positive allosteric modulator of A‐type GABA receptors (GABAARs), was reported to be sensitive to Asn265 of the β2/β3 subunit. Here, we report new N‐[1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)ethylidene]hydroxylamine esters showing anticonvulsant activity in animal models, including the 6‐Hz psychomotor seizure test, a model for therapy‐resistant partial seizure. We performed molecular docking studies for our active compounds using GABAAR and VGSC homology models. They predicted high affinity to the benzodiazepine binding site of GABAAR in line with the experimental results. Also, the binding mode and interactions of LRZ in its putative allosteric binding site of GABAAR is elucidated.
Social skills training for children with autism spectrum disorder using a robotic behavioral intervention system
Authors: Yun Sang‐Seok , Choi JongSuk , Park Sung‐Kee , Bong Gui‐Young , Yoo HeeJeong
Published: May 2017

We designed a robot system that assisted in behavioral intervention programs of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The eight‐session intervention program was based on the discrete trial teaching protocol and focused on two basic social skills: eye contact and facial emotion recognition. The robotic interactions occurred in four modules: training element query, recognition of human activity, coping‐mode selection, and follow‐up action. Children with ASD who were between 4 and 7 years old and who had verbal IQ ≥ 60 were recruited and randomly assigned to the treatment group (TG, n = 8, 5.75 ± 0.89 years) or control group (CG, n = 7; 6.32 ± 1.23 years). The therapeutic robot facilitated the treatment intervention in the TG, and the human assistant facilitated the treatment intervention in the CG. The intervention procedures were identical in both groups. The primary outcome measures included parent‐completed questionnaires, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), and frequency of eye contact, which was measured with the partial interval recording method. After completing treatment, the eye contact percentages were significantly increased in both groups. For facial emotion recognition, the percentages of correct answers were increased in similar patterns in both groups compared to baseline (P > 0.05), with no difference between the TG and CG (P > 0.05). The subjects’ ability to play, general behavioral and emotional symptoms were significantly diminished after treatment (p < 0.05). These results showed that the robot‐facilitated and human‐facilitated behavioral interventions had similar positive effects on eye contact and facial emotion recognition, which suggested that robots are useful mediators of social skills training for children with ASD. Autism Res 2017,. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1306–1323. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A systematic review and network meta‐analysis of immunotherapy and targeted therapy for advanced melanoma
Authors: da Silveira Nogueira Lima Joao Paulo , Georgieva Mina , Haaland Benjamin , de Lima Lopes Gilberto
Published: May 2017

Immune and BRAF‐targeted therapies have changed the therapeutic scenario of advanced melanoma, turning the clinical decision‐making a challenging task. This Bayesian network meta‐analysis assesses the role of immunotherapies and targeted therapies for advanced melanoma. We retrieved randomized controlled trials testing immune, BRAF‐ or MEK‐targeted therapies for advanced melanoma from electronic databases. A Bayesian network model compared therapies using hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and odds ratio (OR) for response rate (RR), along with 95% credible intervals (95% CrI), and probabilities of drugs outperforming others. We assessed the impact of PD‐L1 expression on immunotherapy efficacy. Sixteen studies evaluating eight therapies in 6849 patients were analyzed. For OS, BRAF‐MEK combination and PD‐1 single agent ranked similarly and outperformed all other treatments. For PFS, BRAF‐MEK combination surpassed all other options, including CTLA‐4‐PD‐1 dual blockade hazard ratio (HR: 0.56; 95% CrI: 0.33–0.97; probability better 96.2%), whereas BRAF single agent ranked close to CTLA‐4‐PD‐1 blockade. For RR, BRAF‐MEK combination was superior to all treatments including CTLA‐4‐PD‐1 (OR: 2.78; 1.18–6.30; probability better 97.1%). No OS data were available for CTLA‐4‐PD‐1 blockade at the time of systematic review, although PFS and RR results suggested that this combination could also bring meaningful benefit. PD‐L1 expression, as presently defined, failed to inform patient selection to PD‐1‐based immunotherapy. BRAF‐MEK combination seemed an optimal therapy for BRAF‐mutated patients, whereas PD‐1 inhibitors seemed optimal for BRAF wild‐type patients. Longer follow‐up is needed to ascertain the role of CTLA‐4‐PD‐1 blockade. Immunotherapy biomarkers remain as an unmet need.
Language as a cultural vessel in online servicescapes: Its impact on consumers' perceived risk, attitudes, and behavioural intentions
Authors: Alcántara‐Pilar Juan Miguel , Del Barrio‐García Salvador , Porcu Lucia , Crespo‐Almendros Esmeralda
Published: May 2017

Globalisation and the broader use of the Internet have led both academia and professionals to dedicate a great deal of attention to the analysis of the cultural differences that exist within a market and between different markets. Language emerges as a relevant issue in current marketing and communication management environments, especially in online servicescape. Following this premise, the current paper examines the role of language as a vessel of cultural values, namely, individualism and uncertainty avoidance, and its impact on consumer's perceived risk, attitudes, and behavioural intentions in online servicescape. To address this objective, an experimental design was performed. The sample comprised 491 Internet users from 2 different national cultures (British and Spanish). Users were asked to browse an experimental website in their native or first language, whereas the other half of the sample browsed in their second language (British subjects browsing in Spanish and vice versa). The unique contribution of this study lies in demonstrating that online information processing is moderated by the language by which users elaborate information and their cultural values in terms of the dimensions of individualism and uncertainty avoidance. The findings provide valuable insights into the role of language in international marketing strategies, as well as in multicultural and cross‐cultural integrated marketing communications. In this regard, marketers must acknowledge the symbolic cues of language and the competitive advantage that might derive from a strategic language choice to evoke emotions and forge attitudes that are consistent with brand and corporate values.
Runx2 alleviates high glucose‐suppressed osteogenic differentiation via PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Chen Yang , Hu Yun , Yang Lan , Zhou Jie , Tang Yuying , Zheng Leilei , Qin Pu
Published: May 2017

Hyperglycemia is one of the most important pathogenesis of diabetic osteopathy. Several lines of studies indicate Runx2 plays a critical role in the process of osteogenic differentiation. However, little studies have analyzed the effect of Runx2 on osteoblast differentiation of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) in high‐glucose condition. In this study, the effect of Runx2 on osteoblast differentiation in high‐glucose condition was evaluated by the expression of osteogenesis‐related maker including Runx2, ALP, OC, and OPN, as well as ALP staining, ALP activity, and Alizarin red S staining. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the protein expression levels of p‐AKT, AKT, p‐GSK3β, GSK3β, and β‐catenin. Immunofluorescence staining analysis was performed to detect subcellular localization of β‐catenin. Our results revealed that high glucose significantly inhibited osteogenic differentiation, hyperosmolarity did not cause a suppression. In addition, Runx2 could upregulate the expression of osteogenic‐related genes and increase matrix mineralization, while applying 10 µM PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 abolished the beneficial effect. Collectively, these results indicate that Runx2 alleviates high glucose‐induced inhibition of osteoblast differentiation by modulating PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β‐catenin pathway.
Transradial versus transfemoral ancillary approach in complex structural, coronary, and peripheral interventions. Results from the multicenter ancillary registry: A study of the Italian Radial Club
Authors: Cortese Bernardo , Rigattieri Stefano , Aranzulla Tiziana C. , Russo Filippo , Latib Azeem , Burzotta Francesco , Agostoni Pierfrancesco , Ielasi Alfonso , Tarantino Fabio , Sticchi Alessandro , Di Palma Gaetano , de Benedictis Mauro , Trani Carlo , Boccaletti Roberto , Miccoli Rosa , Valsecchi Orazio , Colombo Antonio
Published: May 2017

Objectives

to understand the role of a transradial (TR) secondary approach during complex percutaneous interventions.

Background

The value of the TR route for ancillary vascular approach has not been adequately validated in this setting, and there is scant data on its role in reducing bleeding complications.

Methods

In the present study we retrospectively included patients undergoing the following interventions requiring two vascular approaches at nine high‐volume centers in Italy: structural cardiac interventions, complex PCI, endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) and complex lower limb angioplasty. We compared procedural outcomes according to the type of ancillary vascular approach selected, namely TR or transfemoral/transbrachial (TF/TB). Primary endpoints of the study were procedural success and in‐hospital BARC grade 3–5 bleedings.

Results

We included 906 patients, 433 receiving TR and 473 TF/TB ancillary approaches. Baseline characteristics did not differ significantly. Patients underwent the following types of intervention: structural 50%, complex coronary PCI 37%, EVAR 11%, peripheral angioplasty 2%. Procedural success was similar (90% in TR and 92% TF/TB, P = NS). In‐hospital BARC 3/5 bleedings were more common in TF/TB group as compared to TR group (19.7% vs. 6.7%,P < 0.001). In TF/TB group we also observed a higher postprocedural hemoglobin drop (1.92 vs 1.13 g/dl, P = 0.008) and longer hospital stay as compared to TR group. Similar results were observed in a propensity score‐matched population of 450 patients.

Conclusions

In our study TR ancillary approach was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of major bleedings, without jeopardizing the success of complex structural, coronary, and peripheral percutaneous interventions.

The value of the transradial route for ancillary vascular approach during percutaneous interventions has not been adequately validated yet. We retrospectively included 906 patients, 433 receiving TR and 473 TF/TB ancillary approach at nine high‐volume centers for the following interventions: structural cardiac interventions, complex PCI, EVAR and complex peripheral angioplasty. Procedural success was similar, whereas in‐hospital BARC bleedings were more common in the transfemoral/brachial group. Similar results were observed in a propensity score‐matched population. In our study TR ancillary approach was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of major bleedings, without jeopardizing the success of complex interventions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Controllable Synthesis of CuxFe3−xO4@Cu Core–Shell Hollow Spherical Chains for Broadband, Lightweight Microwave Absorption
Authors: Wu Tong , Zhao Yanting , Li Yana , Wu Wenhua , Tong Guoxiu
Published: May 2017

CuxFe3−xO4@Cu (0<x<1.30) core–shell hollow spherical chains (HSCs) with tunable composition were prepared through magnetic‐field‐induced solvothermal and liquid‐phase reduction approach. The influence of [Cu2+] on composition, phase, morphology, and microstructure of the products was confirmed by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy analyses. Cu0 content, Cu2+ substitution, and crystal size in CuxFe3−xO4@Cu HSCs can be adjusted by changing [Cu2+]. Increasing [Cu2+] decreases the mean crystal size and increases the Cu0 content and Cu2+ substitution. The saturation magnetization (Ms) of CuxFe3−xO4@Cu HSCs linearly decreases, and the coercivity (Hc) varies in the Boltzmann mode. The microwave‐absorbing properties of CuxFe3−xO4@Cu HSCs decline first and then increase, and the sample with x=1.300 exhibits the optimal properties. Cu1.300Fe1.700O4@Cu HSCs with 44 wt % mass fraction obtain the minimum resonance loss (RL) of −45.1 dB at 3.44 GHz and the absorption bandwidth (RL≤−20 dB) of 9.9 GHz. Cu1.300Fe1.700O4@Cu HSCs exhibits stronger absorption, lighter weight, and a broader absorption band than the other samples. The improved absorption performance may be ascribed to the hollow/porous core–shell structures, Cu2+ substitution, and Cu0 shell with high conductivity, leading to enhanced permittivity, matching, and resonance absorption.