bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonbreeding home‐range size and survival of lesser prairie‐chickens
Authors: Robinson Samantha G. , Haukos David A. , Plumb Reid T. , Lautenbach Joseph M. , Sullins Daniel S. , Kraft John D. , Lautenbach Jonathan D. , Hagen Christian A. , Pitman James C.
Published: October 2017

The lesser prairie‐chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus), a species of conservation concern with uncertain regulatory status, has experienced population declines over the past century. Most research on lesser prairie‐chickens has focused on the breeding season, with little research conducted during the nonbreeding season, a period that exerts a strong influence on demography in other upland game birds. We trapped lesser prairie‐chickens on leks and marked them with either global positioning system (GPS) satellite or very high frequency (VHF) transmitters to estimate survival and home‐range size during the nonbreeding season. We monitored 119 marked lesser prairie‐chickens in 3 study areas in Kansas, USA, from 16 September to 14 March in 2013, 2014, and 2015. We estimated home‐range size using Brownian Bridge movement models (GPS transmitters) and fixed kernel density estimators (VHF transmitters), and female survival using Kaplan–Meier known‐fate models. Average home‐range size did not differ between sexes. Estimated home‐range size was 3 times greater for individuals fitted with GPS satellite transmitters ( = 997 ha) than those with VHF transmitters ( = 286 ha), likely a result of the temporal resolution of the different transmitters. Home‐range size of GPS‐marked birds increased 2.8 times relative to the breeding season and varied by study area and year. Home‐range size was smaller in the 2013–2014 nonbreeding season ( = 495 ha) than the following 2 nonbreeding seasons ( = 1,290 ha and  = 1,158 ha), corresponding with drought conditions of 2013, which were alleviated in following years. Female survival () was high relative to breeding season estimates, and did not differ by study area or year ( = 0.73 ± 0.04 [SE]). Future management could remain focused on the breeding season because nonbreeding survival was 39–44% greater than the previous breeding season; however, considerations of total space needs would benefit lesser prairie‐chickens by accounting for the greater spatial requirements during the nonbreeding season. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Organic carbon, nutrient, and salt dynamics in saline soil and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) irrigated with treated municipal wastewater
Authors: Ganjegunte Girisha , Ulery April , Niu Genhua , Wu Yanqi
Published: October 2017

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of treated municipal wastewater irrigation on soil organic carbon (SOC), soil macronutrients, Na, Cl, and SO4 dynamics in soil as well as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) shoots under greenhouse conditions. Average SOC concentrations in upper 60 cm increased significantly from the prestudy level of 18 Mg ha−1 to between 21 and 23 Mg ha−1 at the end of the study (2009–2015) under different treatments. Annual average rate of increase for all four depths (upper 60 cm) ranged from 0.6 to 0.8 Mg ha−1 y−1. Nutrient concentration in soil samples was positively influenced by fertilizer application. N, P, and K concentrations in soil and switchgrass shoots were significantly positively correlated. On average, Alamo switchgrass cultivar under irrigated conditions removed 28.5 to 35.7 g N m−2, 2.52 to 3.48 g P m−2, and 29.6 to 38.4 g K m−2, and differences between freshwater and wastewater treatments were not significant. This indicated that wastewater irrigation did not result in excessive accumulation of nutrients in switchgrass tissue. Although salt constituents such as Na, Cl, and SO4 concentrations in soil increased over time as a result of wastewater irrigation, their concentration did not increase in switchgrass shoots, indicating a salt exclusion mechanism. The results of this greenhouse study indicated that the use treated municipal wastewater for irrigation can improve SOC contents of salt affected lands and extend the availability of freshwater in arid regions.
Three‐dimensional hydrodynamic and sediment transport modeling to test the sediment focusing hypothesis in upland lakes
Authors: Morales‐Marin L. A. , French J. R. , Burningham H. , Battarbee R. W.
Published: October 2017

Palaeolimnological studies rely on assumptions regarding the distribution and completeness of lake deposits that are not always fully supported by observations. In particular, the assumption that “focusing” of suspended sediments leads to preferential deposition in the deepest part of a lake is not always justified, especially in upland lakes subject to energetic wind forcing. Few studies have investigated the hydrodynamic controls on lake sediment focusing, especially the importance of wind‐driven currents in deep water. We combine a three‐dimensional numerical hydrodynamic and suspended sediment model (FVCOM) with a semi‐empirical wind wave model to investigate the potential mobility of bottom sediments in a small oligotrophic upland lake (Llyn Conwy, north Wales, UK). Exploratory simulations of wave‐ and current‐generated bottom stress and suspended sediment dynamics confirm the expected importance of wave‐generated bottom stresses in shallower waters (< 3 m depth) around the shore. Field survey shows that lake sediments are largely absent from this zone. This is consistent with peripheral wave action as a sediment focusing mechanism. In deeper water, wind‐driven currents become the dominant contributor to bottom stress. Strong wind forcing events drive an energetic circulation with peak bottom stresses that intermittently exceed any realistic erosion threshold over a large proportion of the lake at depths far below those at which waves can be effective. The spatial distribution of lake sediments, and the completeness of the sediment record, is thus determined by a complex interaction between wind‐driven circulation and bathymetry, rather than by bathymetry alone. Although our sediment dynamics simulations are purely exploratory, the results are consisted with survey results that show a patchy distribution of deep‐water accumulation. Some implications of these results for the selection of sediment coring locations and the interpretation of sediment records are considered.
Methane cold seeps as biological oases in the high‐Arctic deep sea
Authors: Åström Emmelie K. L. , Carroll Michael L. , Ambrose William G. , Sen Arunima , Silyakova Anna , Carroll JoLynn
Published: October 2017

Cold seeps can support unique faunal communities via chemosynthetic interactions fueled by seabed emissions of hydrocarbons. Additionally, cold seeps can enhance habitat complexity at the deep seafloor through the accretion of methane derived authigenic carbonates (MDAC). We examined infaunal and megafaunal community structure at high‐Arctic cold seeps through analyses of benthic samples and seafloor photographs from pockmarks exhibiting highly elevated methane concentrations in sediments and the water column at Vestnesa Ridge (VR), Svalbard (79° N). Infaunal biomass and abundance were five times higher, species richness was 2.5 times higher and diversity was 1.5 times higher at methane‐rich Vestnesa compared to a nearby control region. Seabed photos reveal different faunal associations inside, at the edge, and outside Vestnesa pockmarks. Brittle stars were the most common megafauna occurring on the soft bottom plains outside pockmarks. Microbial mats, chemosymbiotic siboglinid worms, and carbonate outcrops were prominent features inside the pockmarks, and high trophic‐level predators aggregated around these features. Our faunal data, visual observations, and measurements of sediment characteristics indicate that methane is a key environmental driver of the biological system at VR. We suggest that chemoautotrophic production enhances infaunal diversity, abundance, and biomass at the seep while MDAC create a heterogeneous deep‐sea habitat leading to aggregation of heterotrophic, conventional megafauna. Through this combination of rich infaunal and megafaunal associations, the cold seeps of VR are benthic oases compared to the surrounding high‐Arctic deep sea.
Aronszajn trees, square principles, and stationary reflection
Authors: Lambie‐Hanson Chris
Published: October 2017

We investigate questions involving Aronszajn trees, square principles, and stationary reflection. We first consider two strengthenings of introduced by Brodsky and Rinot for the purpose of constructing κ‐Souslin trees. Answering a question of Rinot, we prove that the weaker of these strengthenings is compatible with stationary reflection at κ but the stronger is not. We then prove that, if μ is a singular cardinal, implies the existence of a special ‐tree with a cf(μ)‐ascent path, thus answering a question of Lücke.
Algebraic semantics for the ‐fragment of and its properties
Authors: Słomczyńska Katarzyna
Published: October 2017

We study the variety of equivalential algebras with zero and its subquasivariety that gives the equivalent algebraic semantics for the ‐fragment of intuitionistic propositional logic. We prove that this fragment is hereditarily structurally complete. Moreover, we effectively construct the finitely generated free equivalential algebras with zero.
Ab‐Initio‐Based Kinetic Modeling to Understand RAFT Exchange: The Case of 2‐Cyano‐2‐Propyl Dodecyl Trithiocarbonate and Styrene
Authors: Desmet Gilles B. , De Rybel Nils , Van Steenberge Paul H. M. , D'hooge Dagmar R. , Reyniers Marie‐Françoise , Marin Guy B.
Published: October 2017

Ab‐initio‐calculated rate coefficients for addition and fragmentation in reversible‐addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of styrene with 2‐cyano‐2‐propyl dodecyl trithiocarbonate initiated by azobisisobutyronitrile allow the reliable simulation of the experimentally observed conversion, number average chain length, and dispersity. The rate coefficient for addition of a macroradical Ri to the macroRAFT agent RiX at 333 K (6.8 104 L mol−1 s−1) is significantly lower than to the initial RAFT agent R0X (3.2 106 L mol−1 s−1), mainly due to a difference in activation energy (15.4 vs 3.0 kJ mol−1), which causes the dispersity to spike in the beginning of the polymerization.
Vector field reconstruction via quaternionic setting
Authors: Wongsason Patcharee
Published: October 2017

We propose the reconstruction of the solenoidal part of a vector field supported in the unit ball in 3 dimensions by using cone beam data from a curve surrounding it, and this curve satisfies the Tuy's condition of order 3. We use the quaternionic inversion formula to decompose the solenoidal part of a vector field into 2 parts. To recover the first one, which is the main part of the solenoidal component, another definition of a cone beam transform containing both Doppler and transverse data will be introduced. The second part will be reconstructed by using information from the first part as in Katsevich and Schuster's work with less data.
Fractional model and solution for the Black‐Scholes equation
Authors: Duan Jun‐Sheng , Lu Lei , Chen Lian , An Yu‐Lian
Published: October 2017

This work presents a new model of the fractional Black‐Scholes equation by using the right fractional derivatives to model the terminal value problem. Through nondimensionalization and variable replacements, we convert the terminal value problem into an initial value problem for a fractional convection diffusion equation. Then the problem is solved by using the Fourier‐Laplace transform. The fundamental solutions of the derived initial value problem are given and simulated and display a slow anomalous diffusion in the fractional case.
On a numerical algorithm for the solution of the radial Loewner equation
Authors: Hotta Ikkei , Shimauchi Hirokazu
Published: October 2017

The Loewner partial differential equation provides a one‐parametric family of conformal maps on the unit disk. The images describe a flow of an expanding simply‐connected domain, called the Loewner flow, on the complex plane. In this paper, we present a numerical algorithm for solving the radial Loewner partial differential equation. The algorithm is applied to visualization of Loewner flows with the performance and precision. From the theoretical point of view, our algorithm is based on a recursive formula for determining coefficients of polynomial approximations. We prove that each coefficient converges to true values with reasonable regularity.
On the well‐posedness of a Volterra equation with applications in the Navier‐Stokes problem
Authors: de Andrade Bruno
Published: October 2017

This paper is dedicated to the study of a family of nonlinear Volterra equations coming from the theory of viscoelasticity. We analyze the existence of local mild solutions to the problem and their possible continuation to a maximal interval of existence. We also consider the problem of continuous dependence with respect to initial data.
Dynamical properties of a nonautonomous double pendulum model
Authors: Lampart Marek , Zapoměl Jaroslav
Published: October 2017

This research was motivated by a real technological problem of vibrations of bodies hanging on chains or ropes in tubes or spaces limited by walls or other bodies. The studied system has two degrees of freedom. It is formed by two pendulums moving between two walls. Its movement is governed by a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The results of the simulations shown that the system exhibits regular and chaotic movement. The simulations were performed for 3 excitation amplitudes and the range of the excitation frequencies between 1 and 30 rad s−1. The subject of the investigations was the determination of the character of the pendulums' motions and identification of their collisions with the sided walls.
Relative controllability in fractional differential equations with pure delay
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Debbouche Amar , Wang JinRong
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we study relative controllability of fractional differential equations with pure delay. Delayed Gram‐type matrix criterion and rank criterion for relative controllability are established with the help of the explicit solution formula. An example is given to illustrate our theoretical results.
Combining MFS and PGD methods to solve transient heat equation
Authors: Kpogan Kékéli , Tri Abdeljalil , Sogah Amen , Mathieu Norman , Zahrouni Hamid , Potier‐Ferry Michel
Published: October 2017

We propose in this article a numerical algorithm based on the combination of the method of fundamental solutions (MFS) and the proper generalized decomposition technique (PGD) to solve time‐dependent heat equation. The MFS is considered as a truly meshless technique well adapted for a wide range of physical problems and the PGD approach can be considered as a reduction technique based on the separated representation of the variable functions. The proposed study relates to a separation between the spatial and temporal coordinates. To show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, several examples are presented and compared to the reference results.
Violence at Verteba Cave, Ukraine: New insights into the Late Neolithic intergroup conflict
Authors: Madden G.D. , Karsten J.K. , Ledogar S.H. , Schmidt R. , Sokhatsky M.P.
Published: October 2017

Many researchers have pointed to the huge “megasites” and construction of fortifications as evidence of intergroup hostilities among the Late Neolithic Tripolye archaeological culture. However, to date, very few skeletal remains have been analysed for the types of traumatic injury that serve as direct evidence for violent conflict. In this study, we examine trauma on human remains from the Tripolye site of Verteba Cave in western Ukraine. The remains of 36 individuals, including 25 crania, were buried in the gypsum cave as secondary interments. The frequency of cranial trauma is 30–44% among the 25 crania, 6 males, 4 females, and 1 adult of indeterminate sex displayed cranial trauma. Of the 18 total fractures, 10 were significantly large and penetrating, suggesting lethal force. Over half of the trauma is located on the posterior aspect of the crania, suggesting that the victims were attacked from behind. Sixteen of the fractures observed were perimortem and 2 were ante‐mortem. The distribution and characteristics of the fractures suggest that some of the Tripolye individuals buried at Verteba Cave were victims of a lethal surprise attack. Resources were limited due to population growth and migration, leading to conflict over resource access. It is hypothesised that during this time of change, burial in this cave aided in development of identity and ownership of the local territory.
Insulin injections and exercise scheduling for individuals with diabetes: An optimal control model
Authors: Al Helal Zahra , Rehbock Volker , Loxton Ryan
Published: October 2017

The aim of this paper is to promote the development of new biological models and the application of optimization methods to these models. Fast and cheap computing power allows for the ready implementation of increasingly complex dynamic models in biology. However, these models are normally developed in isolation, and their highly coupled nature can make it difficult to incorporate features from one model into another. In addition, there are many recent advances in numerical optimal control, which have not yet been applied to biological models. In this paper, we illustrate how an existing biological model can be extended to incorporate features from other models, and we demonstrate that numerical optimal control techniques can readily determine optimal strategies for managing the resulting system. In particular, we develop a new composite dynamic model for the blood glucose regulatory system by incorporating the effects of exercise and insulin injections into an existing model with 8 state variables. We formulate an optimal control problem, in which the aim is to determine optimal injection times, optimal injection volumes, and an optimal exercise regime to regulate the blood glucose level. A numerical approach, based on the concept of control parameterization and a time‐scaling transformation, is then developed for solving the optimal control problem. Numerical results for 5 scenarios show that optimal treatment regimes can be readily determined via the proposed approach.
Directional diffusion of moisture into unidirectional carbon fiber/epoxy Composites: Experiments and modeling
Authors: Korkees Feras , Alston Sue , Arnold Cris
Published: October 2017

Water diffusion into composites in different directions was examined in this study with the aim of determining the best way of measuring diffusion coefficients and to provide values to compare with model predictions. Water absorption behavior of unreinforced epoxy resins and carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composite materials was investigated with long‐term exposure to different environmental conditions. Initial Fickian absorption was observed followed by a slower second stage that continues for at least 3.7 years. Fiber architecture was found to be an important aspect of controlling absorption, where water diffusion along fibers was observed to be about three times faster than across the fibers and about seven times faster than through the thickness. A three‐dimensional finite element computer model based on Fickian diffusion behavior was developed to predict the levels of moisture absorption under hot/humid environments. A multi‐scale modeling approach was used which allowed the results of simulations at the micro‐structural level to be used to predict the diffusivity in different directions. The modeled diffusion coefficients showed high dependency on the detailed micro‐structure. Experimental results provided a baseline for the validation of the model, and it was found that these data could be closely predicted using a reasonable micro‐structure characterization. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2305–E2315, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of mold opening on the properties of PLA samples obtained by foam injection molding
Authors: Volpe Valentina , De Filitto Martina , Klofacova Vera , De Santis Felice , Pantani Roberto
Published: October 2017

Foam injection molding is a process by which complex, thick parts with a cellular core and a compact solid skin can be manufactured. The addition of a physical blowing agent under high pressure allows the decrease of the viscosity and the glass transition temperature of the gas/polymer melt. These features of the foam injection molding are very beneficial for biodegradable polymers, in which the processability window is very narrow. In this study, morphology, rheological, and mechanical properties of parts with a complex shape, obtained by foam injection molding, were analyzed. In particular, two commercial grades of poly(lactic acid) having different rheological behavior were adopted to obtain foamed parts by injection molding process with nitrogen as a physical blowing agent. For both resins, the effect of the mold opening on morphology and mechanical properties was assessed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:475–484, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Polyaniline/zinc oxide nanocomposite as room‐temperature sensing layer for methane
Authors: Sen Tanushree , Mishra Satyendra , Sonawane S.S. , Shimpi Navinchandra G.
Published: October 2017

Methane detection in ambient condition has become essential as it is being increasingly used as compressed natural gas in many industrial processes and for domestic and transportation purposes. Hence, in this work, we report a room‐temperature methane sensor based on polyaniline/zinc oxide (PANI/ZnO) nanocomposite. The PANI/ZnO nanocomposite was prepared by chemical polymerization of aniline in the presence of ZnO nanoparticles. Electron microscopy results revealed the successful formation of nanocomposites with rod‐like ZnO nanoparticles embedded into the network of nanofibrillar PANI matrix. The PANI/ZnO nanocomposites exhibited a high response to methane at room temperature within a short response time of 20 s for a methane concentration (500 ppm) much lower than its flammability limit. Moreover, the humidity dependence of the sensor response was found to be very low. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1438–1445, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Culturally responsive practice and the role of school administrators
Authors: Minkos Marlena L. , Sassu Kari A. , Gregory Jess L. , Patwa Shamim S. , Theodore Lea A. , Femc‐Bagwell Michele
Published: October 2017

In recent years, student populations within public schools in the United States have become increasingly diverse, both culturally and linguistically, and are projected to continue to grow in diversity in the future. Consequently, educators must be prepared to support the needs and education of students with multicultural backgrounds who may differ from them. School administrators play an important role in creating safe, accepting school environments and guiding the education of diverse student populations. However, there is a need for additional guidance for school leaders in cultivating schools that promote equity for all students. Using the National Policy Board for Educational Administration (NPBEA) Professional Standards for Educational Leaders as a guiding framework, this paper provides practical suggestions regarding culturally responsive strategies and practices that school administrators might employ in leading diverse school communities.
Trials and tribulations of designing multitasking catalysts for olefin/thiophene block copolymerizations
Authors: Souther Kendra D. , Leone Amanda K. , Vitek Andrew K. , Palermo Edmund F. , LaPointe Anne M. , Coates Geoffrey W. , Zimmerman Paul M. , McNeil Anne J.
Published: October 2017

Block copolymers containing both insulating and conducting segments have been shown to exhibit improved charge transport properties and air stability. Nevertheless, their syntheses are challenging, relying on multiple post‐polymerization functionalization reactions and purifications. A simpler approach would be to synthesize the block copolymer in one pot using the same catalyst to enchain both monomers via distinct mechanisms. Such multitasking polymerization catalysts are rare, however, due to the challenges of finding a single catalyst that can mediate living, chain‐growth polymerizations for each monomer under similar conditions. Herein, a diimine‐ligated Ni catalyst is evaluated and optimized to produce block copolymer containing both 1‐pentene and 3‐hexylthiophene. The reaction mixture also contains both homopolymers, suggesting catalyst dissociation during and/or after the switch in mechanisms. Experimental and theoretical studies reveal a high energy switching step coupled with infrequent catalyst dissociation as the culprits for the low yield of copolymer. Combined, these studies highlight the challenges of identifying multitasking catalysts, and suggest that further tuning the reaction conditions (e.g., ancillary ligand structure and/or metal) is warranted for this specific copolymerization. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 132–137
High‐Fidelity Microstructural Characterization and Performance Modeling of Aluminized Composite Propellant
Authors: Kosiba Graham D. , Wixom Ryan R. , Oehlschlaeger Matthew A.
Published: October 2017

Image processing and stereological techniques were used to characterize the heterogeneity of composite propellant and inform a predictive burn rate model. Composite propellant samples made up of ammonium perchlorate (AP), hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB), and aluminum (Al) were faced with an ion mill and imaged with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and x‐ray tomography (micro‐CT). Properties of both the bulk and individual components of the composite propellant were determined from a variety of image processing tools. An algebraic model, based on the improved Beckstead‐Derr‐Price model developed by Cohen and Strand, was used to predict the steady‐state burning of the aluminized composite propellant. In the presented model the presence of aluminum particles within the propellant was introduced. The thermal effects of aluminum particles are accounted for at the solid‐gas propellant surface interface and aluminum combustion is considered in the gas phase using a single global reaction. Properties derived from image processing were used directly as model inputs, leading to a sample‐specific predictive combustion model.
Non‐linear Realizations and Higher Curvature Supergravity
Authors: Farakos F. , Ferrara S. , Kehagias A. , Lüst D.
Published: October 2017

We focus on non‐linear realizations of local supersymmetry as obtained by using constrained superfields in supergravity. New constraints, beyond those of rigid supersymmetry, are obtained whenever curvature multiplets are affected as well as higher derivative interactions are introduced. In particular, a new constraint, which removes a very massive gravitino is introduced, and in the rigid limit it merely reduces to an explicit supersymmetry breaking. Higher curvature supergravities free of ghosts and instabilities are also obtained in this way. Finally, we consider direct coupling of the goldstino multiplet to the super Gauss–Bonnet multiplet and discuss the emergence of a new scalar degree of freedom.
Metallisation of Boron‐Doped Polysilicon Layers by Screen Printed Silver Pastes
Authors: Mack Sebastian , Schube Joerg , Fellmeth Tobias , Feldmann Frank , Lenes Martijn , Luchies Jan‐Marc
Published: October 2017

In this work, we report on hole selective passivating contacts, which consist of a SiOx tunnel layer and an in situ boron‐doped 300 nm thick p+ polysilicon layer deposited by LPCVD. Using a SiNx:H capping layer, we show an extremely low dark saturation current density J0 of 1 fA cm−2 after contact firing. At the same time, we demonstrate that commercially available and screen‐printed fire through Ag pastes are capable of contacting the p+ polysilicon layer, with minimum contact resistance ρc = 2 mΩ cm2. We do find increased interface recombination below the metal contacts of around 250 fA cm−2, which represents a considerable advance compared to conventional screen printed metallisation on diffused junctions.
Invigoration of convection by an overrunning diabatically modified cloud‐top layer
Authors: Browning K. A. , Smart D. J.
Published: October 2017

This paper investigates the factors that invigorated an outbreak of warm‐sector convection which was instrumental in transporting high momentum downwards to give damaging surface winds. We have re‐examined a wintertime extratropical cyclone from the Fronts and Atlantic Storm‐Track EXperiment for which an earlier study had shown the warm‐sector convection to be in the form of a series of arc‐shaped rainbands. Using a 5 km grid version of the WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) model, we show that this convection was enhanced as a result of the properties of an airstream at the base of the dry intrusion that overran the shallow moist zone (SMZ) of the warm sector. This airstream, which we refer to as the Diabatically Modified Cloud‐Top Layer (DMCTL), is shown to have originated several hours earlier in part of an ana‐cold frontal cloud layer where a region of previously ascending air began systematically to descend. Air from the DMCTL descended from heights of 2–3 km to heights of 1–2 km over a roughly 5 h period during which sustained evaporation occurred and its potential temperature dropped by up to 5 °C. This substantially enhanced the convective instability where this airstream overran the SMZ, leading to vigorous boundary‐layer convection. The same region of evaporative cooling is also shown to have generated positive potential vorticity (PV) in the upper parts of the DMCTL, with values reaching about 3 PV units where it overran the SMZ. This layer of high PV, although we have not quantified its impact, may have increased the convective instability further by inducing differential advection below it. The cyclone in the present study later underwent frontal fracture and developed a cloud head but the processes diagnosed in this study were underway before the transition occurred.
Interpreting geometric preferences in π‐stacking interactions through molecular orbital analysis
Authors: Lutz Patricia B. , Bayse Craig A.
Published: October 2017

The preference of π‐stacking interactions for parallel‐displaced (PD) and twisted (TW) conformations over the fully eclipsed sandwich (S) in small π‐stacked dimers of benzene, pyridine, pyrimidine, 1,3,5‐trifluorobenzene, and hexafluorobenzene are examined in terms of enhancement of the inter‐ring density through mixing of the monomer orbitals (MOs). PD and/or TW conformations are consistent with a non‐zero “stack bond order” (SBO), defined in analogy to the bond order of conventional MO theory, as the difference in the occupation of bonding and antibonding π‐type dimer MOs. In the S conformation, the equal number of bonding and antibonding MOs cancel overall stack bonding character between the monomers for an SBO of zero and an overall repulsive interaction. PD from the S shifts the character of at least one antibonding combination of monomer π‐type MOs with nodes perpendicular to the coordinate for PD to bonding, leading to an attractive nonzero SBO. The inter‐ring density measured through the Wiberg bond index analysis shows an enhancement at the PD conformations consistent with greater interpenetration of the monomer densities. This intuitive bonding model for π‐stacking interactions is complementary to highly accurate calculations of π‐stacking energies and allows a predictive understanding of relative stability using cheaper quantum chemical methods.
Strontium carbonate precipitation as a sample preparation technique for isotope ratio analysis of Sr in mineral water and wine by quadrupole‐based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Dronov Michail , Koza Tim , Schwiers Alexander , Schmidt Torsten C. , Schram Jürgen
Published: October 2017

Rationale

The defined origin of food products is nowadays often seen as a marker of quality. Stontium (Sr) isotope ratio determination can be used to verify the origin of such food products and it has thus become an important technique. Wine samples in particular are often investigated using this technique. Sr isotopic ratio measurements are often disturbed by isobaric Rb interference, making a separation procedure necessary. In this investigation a very simple and effective procedure for the separation of Rb+ and Sr2+ ions for Sr isotope ratio determination in mineral water and wine samples was developed.

Methods

The classical Sr‐carbonate precipitation reaction for the separation of Sr2+ ions from highly soluble Rb+ ions was used. For liquid samples, such as mineral water or wine, a prior digestion is not required. This sample preparation procedure was successfully applied for Sr isotope measurements on a widely available quadrupole‐based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) device in combination with the Concentration‐Gradient‐Method (CGM).

Results

The separation achieved Sr/Rb concentration ratios of 50,000 to 150,000 in water and wine samples. The addition of Ca2+ ions to co‐precipitate with the traces of Sr improved the Rb separation and the reproducibility of isotope ratio determination to an uncertainty of ±0.4 ‰ (single standard deviation). This sample preparation approach achieved 2 to 6 times better Rb separation than the commonly applied ion‐exchange resin materials.

Conclusions

The quality of the separation is only limited by the number of precipitation repetitions. Moreover, the applicability of quadrupole‐based ICP‐MS for the characterisation of samples with respect to their origin by means of Sr isotope ratio determination was demonstrated.
Feasibility of desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for diagnosis of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: D'Hue Cedric , Moore Michael , Summerlin Don‐John , Jarmusch Alan , Alfaro Clint , Mantravadi Avinash , Bewley Arnaud , Gregory Farwell D. , Cooks R. Graham
Published: October 2017

Rationale

Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI‐MS) has demonstrated utility in differentiating tumor from adjacent normal tissue in both urologic and neurosurgical specimens. We sought to evaluate if this technique had similar accuracy in differentiating oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) from adjacent normal epithelium due to current issues with late diagnosis of SCC in advanced stages.

Methods

Fresh frozen samples of SCC and adjacent normal tissue were obtained by surgical resection. Resections were analyzed using DESI‐MS sometimes by a blinded technologist. Normative spectra were obtained for separate regions containing SCC or adjacent normal epithelium. Principal Component Analysis and Linear Discriminant Analysis (PCA‐LDA) of spectra were used to predict SCC versus normal tongue epithelium. Predictions were compared with pathology to assess accuracy in differentiating oral SCC from adjacent normal tissue.

Results

Initial PCA score and loading plots showed clear separation of SCC and normal epithelial tissue using DESI‐MS. PCA‐LDA resulted in accuracy rates of 95% for SCC versus normal and 93% for SCC, adjacent normal and normal. Additional samples were blindly analyzed with PCA‐LDA pixel‐by‐pixel predicted classifications as SCC or normal tongue epithelial tissue and compared against histopathology. The m/z 700–900 prediction model showed a 91% accuracy rate.

Conclusions

DESI‐MS accurately differentiated oral SCC from adjacent normal epithelium. Classification of all typical tissue types and pixel predictions with additional classifications should increase confidence in the validation model.
High‐precision determination of lithium and magnesium isotopes utilising single column separation and multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Bohlin Madeleine S. , Misra Sambuddha , Lloyd Nicholas , Elderfield Henry , Bickle Mike J.
Published: October 2017

Rationale

Li and Mg isotopes are increasingly used as a combined tool within the geosciences. However, established methods require separate sample purification protocols utilising several column separation procedures. This study presents a single‐step cation‐exchange method for quantitative separation of trace levels of Li and Mg from multiple sample matrices.

Methods

The column method utilises the macro‐porous AGMP‐50 resin and a high‐aspect ratio column, allowing quantitative separation of Li and Mg from natural waters, sediments, rocks and carbonate matrices following the same elution protocol. High‐precision isotope determination was conducted by multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC‐ICPMS) on the Thermo Scientific™ NEPTUNE Plus™ fitted with 1013 Ω amplifiers which allow accurate and precise measurements at ion beams ≤0.51 V.

Results

Sub‐nanogram Li samples (0.3–0.5 ng) were regularly separated (yielding Mg masses of 1–70 μg) using the presented column method. The total sample consumption during isotopic analysis is <0.5 ng Li and <115 ng Mg with long‐term external 2σ precisions of ±0.39‰ for δ7Li and ±0.07‰ for δ26Mg. The results for geological reference standards and seawater analysed by our method are in excellent agreement with published values despite the order of magnitude lower sample consumption.

Conclusions

The possibility of eluting small sample masses and the low analytical sample consumption make this method ideal for samples of limited mass or low Li concentration, such as foraminifera, mineral separates or dilute river waters.
Lupus pneumonitis presenting with high titre of anti‐Ro antibody
Authors: Chen Mei‐Chuan , Wu Yueh‐Lin , Lee Kai‐Ling , Lai Kevin S. , Chung Chi‐Li
Published: October 2017

Lupus pneumonitis carries high mortality and is a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, it is difficult to diagnose and is often mistaken as pneumonia, alveolar haemorrhage, or organizing pneumonia. Previous studies demonstrated that serum anti‐Ro antibodies are elevated more frequently in SLE patients with pneumonitis than in those without. We report a 21‐year‐old female who was newly diagnosed as having SLE with nephritis and who suddenly developed right lung opacity and rapidly progressed to severe hypoxaemia despite the use of broad‐spectrum antibiotics. The serum titre of anti‐Ro antibody was greater than 240 U/mL. She underwent lung biopsy and lupus pneumonitis was confirmed by the pathological findings. Subsequently, she showed a favourable response to plasma exchange, steroid pulse therapy, and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) treatment. For SLE patients with pulmonary infiltrates, high degree of clinical suspicion of lupus pneumonitis is required and measurement of serum anti‐Ro antibody may help to make the diagnosis.
Habitat fragmentation has interactive effects on the population genetic diversity and individual behaviour of a freshwater salmonid fish
Authors: Van Leeuwen Casper H.A. , Dalen Kristine , Museth Jon , Junge Claudia , Vøllestad L. Asbjørn
Published: October 2017

Sufficient genetic diversity can aid populations to persist in dynamic and fragmented environments. Understanding which mechanisms regulate genetic diversity of riverine fish can therefore advance current conservation strategies. The aim of this study was to investigate how habitat fragmentation interacted with population genetic diversity and individual behaviour of freshwater fish in large river systems. We studied a population of the long‐distance migratory, iteroparous freshwater salmonid European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) in south‐eastern Norway. Genotyping (n = 527) and radio‐tracking (n = 54) of adult fish throughout a 169‐km river section revealed three major migration barriers limiting gene flow and depleting genetic diversity upstream. Individuals from upstream areas that had dispersed downstream of barriers showed different movement behaviour than local genotypes. No natal philopatry was found in a large unfragmented river section, in contrast to strong fidelity to spawning tributaries known for individuals overwintering in lakes. We conclude that (a) upstream sub‐populations in fragmented rivers show less genetic variation, making it less likely for them to adapt to environmental changes; (b) fish with distinct genotypes in the same habitat can differ in their behaviour; (c) spawning site selection (natal philopatry) can differ between fish of the same species living in different habitats. Together this implies that habitat loss and fragmentation may differently affect individual fish of the same species if they live in different types or sections of habitat. Studying behaviour and genetic diversity of fish can unravel their complex ecology and help minimize human impact.
Formation of N‐Doped Carbon‐Coated ZnO/ZnCo2O4/CuCo2O4 Derived from a Polymetallic Metal–Organic Framework: Toward High‐Rate and Long‐Cycle‐Life Lithium Storage
Authors: Niu Ji‐Liang , Zeng Cheng‐Hui , Peng Hai‐Jun , Lin Xiao‐Ming , Sathishkumar Palanivel , Cai Yue‐Peng
Published: October 2017

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are very promising self‐sacrificing templates for the large‐scale fabrication of new functional materials owing to their versatile functionalities and tunable porosities. Most conventional metal oxide electrodes derived from MOFs are limited by the low abundance of incorporated metal elements. This study reports a new strategy for the synthesis of multicomponent active metal oxides by the pyrolysis of polymetallic MOF precursors. A hollow N‐doped carbon‐coated ZnO/ZnCo2O4/CuCo2O4 nanohybrid is prepared by the thermal annealing of a polymetallic MOF with ammonium bicarbonate as a pore‐forming agent. This is the first report on the rational design and preparation of a hybrid composed of three active metal oxide components originating from MOF precursors. Interestingly, as a lithium‐ion battery anode, the developed electrode delivers a reversible capacity of 1742 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at a current density of 0.3 mA g−1. Furthermore, the material shows large storage capacities (1009 and 667 mAh g−1), even at high current flow (3 and 10 A g−1). The remarkable high‐rate capability and outstanding long‐life cycling stability of the multidoped metal oxide benefits from the carbon‐coated integrated nanostructure with a hollow interior and the three active metal oxide components.
Finding an effective classification technique to develop a software team composition model
Authors: Gilal Abdul Rehman , Jaafar Jafreezal , Capretz Luiz Fernando , Omar Mazni , Basri Shuib , Aziz Izzatdin Abdul
Published: October 2017

Ineffective software team composition has become recognized as a prominent aspect of software project failures. Reports from results extracted from different theoretical personality models have produced contradicting fits, validity challenges, and missing guidance during software development personnel selection. It is also believed that the technique/s used while developing a model can impact the overall results. Thus, this study aims to (1) discover an effective classification technique to solve the problem and (2) develop a model for composition of the software development team. The model developed was composed of 3 predictors: team role, personality types, and gender variables; it also contained 1 outcome: team performance variable. The techniques used for model development were logistic regression, decision tree, and rough sets theory (RST). Higher prediction accuracy and reduced pattern complexity were the 2 parameters for selecting the effective technique. Based on the results, the Johnson algorithm (JA) of RST appeared to be an effective technique for a team composition model. The study has proposed a set of 24 decision rules for finding effective team members. These rules involve gender classification to highlight the appropriate personality profile for software developers. In the end, this study concludes that selecting an appropriate classification technique is one of the most important factors in developing effective models.
Toward Full Solution Processed Perovskite/Si Monolithic Tandem Solar Device With PCE Exceeding 20%
Authors: Fan Rundong , Zhou Ning , Zhang Lin , Yang Rong , Meng Yuan , Li Liwei , Guo Tie , Chen Yihua , Xu Ziqi , Zheng Guanhaojie , Huang Yuan , Li Liang , Qin Liang , Qiu Xiaohui , Chen Qi , Zhou Huanping
Published: October 2017

Recently, perovskite/Si devices have attracted enormous interest as an ideal technology for tandem cells, particularly due to the attributes from perovskite cell including low temperature processibility, tunable optical bandgap, and high open circuit voltage. Although solution process is considered to be cost effective and more widely adoptable for perovskite subcell, to the best of our knowledge, there has been no successful demonstration for the resulting high performance two‐terminal perovskite/Si cells. In this manuscript, solution process is employed to fabricate the key components in the two‐terminal perovskite/Si tandem solar cell, including tunneling junction and the perovskite absorber. The current density match between both cells is thoroughly studied by varing the perovskite bandgap from ≈1.55 to 1.69 eV. It was also revealed that the photovoltage modulation in the device is primarily associated to the band alignment over the perovskite and the tunneling materials. Therefore, a reverse scanned power conversion efficiency over 20% is demonstrated, the most efficient two‐terminal perovskite/Si device based on solution processed perovskite subcells.
Analysis of morphological variability in the clam shrimp Eosestheria middendorfii (Crustacea, Spinicaudata) from the Lower Cretaceous of China, and its implications for spinicaudatan taxonomy
Authors: Hethke Manja , Fürsich Franz T. , Morton Jacob D. , Jiang Baoyu
Published: October 2017

Unresolved taxonomic issues regarding spinicaudatans, clam shrimps that formed the most abundant faunal element in the lacustrine Barremian to Aptian Yixian Formation, have hampered palaeoecological and evolutionary interpretations of this key fossil group. Here, we analyse morphological variability in East Asian clam‐shrimp taxa by quantifying: (1) size and shape; and (2) ornamental features (radial lirae distances). Intergeneric variability was examined using 51 specimens of various East Asian Mesozoic taxa, 16 of which were chosen for a taxonomic revision of the 10 species described from the Yixian Formation of western Liaoning. Geometric morphometrics proved to be effective for the separation of genera, while the quantification of ornamental features was species‐diagnostic. Various authors have previously indicated the possibility that East Asian clam‐shrimp species have been split excessively, a criticism that has been confirmed by our analyses. According to our results, four of the ten species described from the Yixian Formation are valid, of which one might represent a junior synonym of Diestheria jeholensis; five taxon names represent junior synonyms of Eosestheria middendorfii (Jones), and one a nomen dubium. According to lirae distances and analysis of shape, Eosestheria fuxinensis, the original type species of Eosestheria, is synonymous with the type of Diestheria. Therefore, a new type species for Eosestheria is warranted and here fixed as E. middendorfii. This taxonomic revision questions the high level of clam‐shrimp diversity recognized within the Yixian Formation, and indicates that many of the species described in fact represent various ontogenetic stages of E. middendorfii.