bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Mass Transfer Phenomena and Chemical Selectivity of Gas‐Liquid Reactions in Capillaries
Authors: Krieger Waldemar , Lamsfuß Jan , Zhang Wei , Kockmann Norbert
Published: August 2017

Gas‐liquid reactions in microreactors play an important role in scientific research and industry. Enhancing heat and mass transfer allows overcoming mass transfer limitations in gas‐liquid reactions. Mass transfer can be further increased by employing helically coiled capillaries, which induce Dean vortices and improve radial mixing. A colorimetric technique is proposed for gas‐liquid reactions in straight and helically coiled capillaries in order to visualize local mass transfer phenomena and concentration distributions. This method is based on the consecutive oxidation of leuco‐indigo carmine and enables noninvasive investigation of mass transfer and chemical selectivity in microchannels with high temporal and spatial resolution.
Cyclohexyl Bromide and Iodide: Direct Reduction at Vitreous Carbon Cathodes together with Nickel(I) Salen‐ and Cobalt(I) Salen‐Catalyzed Reductions in Dimethylformamide
Authors: Gerroll Benjamin H. R. , Bird Sean P. , Martin Erin T. , Mubarak Mohammad S. , Peters Dennis G.
Published: August 2017

Cyclic voltammetry and controlled‐potential (bulk) electrolysis have been used to study the direct electrochemical reduction of cyclohexyl bromide (1) and cyclohexyl iodide (2) at glassy carbon cathodes in dimethylformamide (DMF) containing 0.10 M tetramethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TMABF4). Direct reduction of 1 is a one‐step process that affords a carbanion intermediate, whereas 2 undergoes stepwise reduction to a radical and then a carbanion intermediate. Mixtures of cyclohexane, cyclohexene, and bicyclohexyl arise from bulk electrolyses of both 1 and 2. Catalytic reduction of 1 and 2 by nickel(I) salen and cobalt(I) salen electrogenerated at glassy carbon cathodes in DMF‐TMABF4 has been investigated with the aid of both cyclic voltammetry and bulk electrolysis. Products arising from these catalytic reductions are cyclohexane, cyclohexene, and bicyclohexyl, although significant amounts of unreduced 1 are found when cobalt(I) salen is utilized as the catalyst. Mechanistic aspects of the direct and catalyzed reductions of 1 and 2 are discussed.
Towards effective scheduling policies for many‐task applications: Practice and experience based on HTCaaS
Authors: Kim Jik‐Soo , Quang Bui , Rho Seungwoo , Kim Seoyoung , Kim Sangwan , Breton Vincent , Hwang Soonwook
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we conduct a comparative study of relatively simple yet effective scheduling policies for many‐task applications where multiple users with varying numbers of tasks are actively sharing a common system infrastructure. We have implemented three different scheduling mechanisms that can address fairness and user response time respectively in a common middleware stack called HTCaaS, which is a pilot‐job–based multi‐level scheduling system running on top of production‐level clusters. As a representative case of our many‐task applications, we have leveraged the virtual screening application, which is a computational technique used in drug discovery process to select the most promising candidate drugs for in vitro testing from millions of chemical compounds, which typically requires a substantial amount of computing resources and efficient processing of docking simulations. Our comparative experimental results of different scheduling policies show how we can effectively support multiple users in a shared resource environment by balancing between user satisfaction and overall system performance, provide guidelines to improve system utilization, and address additional technical challenges to support various many‐task applications.
Development of Molecularly Targeted Therapies to Treat Pediatric Malignancies
Authors: Stewart Clinton F. , Robinson Giles W.
Published: August 2017

Drugs and biologics developed to treat children with cancer have been historically developed in adults for adult indications. Although leading to many useful drugs and biologics to treat pediatric cancer, future development of molecularly targeted therapies (MTTs) should be directed toward pediatric tumors more specifically to maximize antitumor efficacy while minimizing acute morbidity and long‐term disability. This will put pediatric clinicians closer to the goal of cure for all children diagnosed with cancer.
When and How Can Real World Data Analyses Substitute for Randomized Controlled Trials?
Authors: Franklin Jessica M. , Schneeweiss Sebastian
Published: August 2017

Regulators consider randomized controlled trials (RCTs) as the gold standard for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of medications, but their costs, duration, and limited generalizability have caused some to look for alternatives. Real world evidence based on data collected outside of RCTs, such as registries and longitudinal healthcare databases, can sometimes substitute for RCTs, but concerns about validity have limited their impact. Greater reliance on such real world data (RWD) in regulatory decision making requires understanding why some studies fail while others succeed in producing results similar to RCTs. Key questions when considering whether RWD analyses can substitute for RCTs for regulatory decision making are WHEN one can study drug effects without randomization and HOW to implement a valid RWD analysis if one has decided to pursue that option. The WHEN is primarily driven by externalities not controlled by investigators, whereas the HOW is focused on avoiding known mistakes in RWD analyses.
Naphthalimide‐Containing Isomeric Urea Derivatives: Mechanoluminescence and Fluoride Recognition
Authors: Devi Kakali , Sarma Rupam J
Published: August 2017

Isomeric ortho, meta and para naphthalimide–urea derivatives ND‐2U, ND‐3U and ND‐4U were synthesized and characterized. Upon gentle mechanical stimulation, the weakly emissive ortho isomeric sample ND‐2U was transformed into a yellow‐green emissive material (λem=500 nm), with Δλ≈125 nm. The mechanoluminescent emission of this isomer could be “switched off” by exposing the sample to solvent vapour. Moreover, ND‐2U could respond to fluoride anions in solution with a dramatic enhancement of fluorescence at λ=446 nm. The sigmoidal nature of the binding isotherm suggested cooperative binding of fluoride to the ortho isomer. 1H NMR spectroscopic studies provided vital insights into the nature of ND‐2U/F−complexation, highlighting the role of the proximal 1,8‐naphthalimide motif.
Fast iterative WSVT algorithm in WNN minimization problem for multiuser massive MIMO channel estimation
Authors: Vanidevi M. , Selvaganesan N.
Published: August 2017

In this paper, channel estimation for multiuser massive MIMO system is addressed for the scenario, where the number of scatterers is small compared to the base station antennas and single antenna users in the cell. If the number of scatterers is limited, then the corresponding angle of arrivals are finite. Moreover, if all the users share the same angle of arrivals, then the correlation among the channel vector increases. Thus, the high‐dimensional channel is approximated to the low‐rank matrix. This rank minimization problem is formulated as the weighted nuclear norm problem and is estimated using iterative weighted singular value thresholding (IWSVT) algorithm. To increase the convergence rate, fast IWSVT algorithm is proposed and the performance is measured based on mean square error and uplink and downlink achievable sum‐rate. The simulation study shows that the proposed weighted nuclear norm minimization method with fast IWSVT algorithm performs better than the conventional least square and the nuclear norm minimization method for various finite scatterers in different signal‐to‐noise ratio levels.
Efficient multisecret sharing scheme using new proposed computational security model
Authors: Ghasemi Reza , Safi Ali , Hadian Dehkordi Massoud
Published: August 2017

A multisecret sharing (MSS) is a method for sharing a set of secrets among some participants. They can recover each of these secrets without endangering the other secrets. Two kinds of security models have been proposed for MSS schemes. These models are categorized into 2 types. The first security model is unconditional security. This approach decreases the efficiency of MSS schemes. Therefore, the second type of security, which is more relaxed, appeared. This approach is called computational security. In this paper, with 2 examples, we will show that the current definition of computational security does not satisfy all of our expectations from a secure MSS scheme. In fact, in these examples, recovering a secret leaks information to the other secrets while these schemes are considered secure in view of the computational security. After determining the shortcomings of the current security definition, we propose a new definition for computational security and present an MSS scheme that enjoys rigorous proof of security in terms of the new definition. In addition, a complete comparison in terms of share size, number of public values, and required operations for recovering a secret between our scheme and previous schemes indicates that the presented scheme is efficient.
Design tables for the utilisation factor α6,fi for the structural fire design of masonry according to DIN EN 1996‐1‐2/NA in the simplified calculation method
Authors: Hauer Markus
Published: August 2017

Easy‐to‐use verification equations are available for the verifications in the simplified calculation method. This applies also for the structural fire design of those masonry types for which a verification with the utilisation factor αfi is given in the National Annex DIN EN 1996‐1‐2/NA. In specific applications, however, a classification can only be made applying the utilisation factor α6,fi. In these cases, the verification for the structural fire design by calculation is considerably more complex than the mathematical verification of the structural design in the ”cold state“. The present paper shows how the design equation for α6,fi can be made significantly easier with regard to its application by reference to the design value of the vertical load bearing resistance in the simplified method. Moreover, an upper limit value for the utilisation factor α6,fi for the simplified method is summarised in tables.
Support identity expression to fully include LGBTQ students in campus life
Authors: Parks Rodney , Parrish Jesse
Published: August 2017

Today's colleges and universities increasingly recognize the value of diversity and inclusion as important components of community development. However, many campus cultures are just beginning to understand and support the fluidity that exists within the range of LGBTQ identities. Dolores G. Norton's theory of the dual perspective demonstrates that subcultures have unique values, traditions, beliefs, and dialects that often differ from dominant societal norms. The members of these subcultures are nonetheless expected to blend into the dominant culture, an expectation that sometimes has compromising effects on self‐worth.
Listen before you act
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: August 2017

Not long ago, I was in the audience to hear Michael Thurmond speak to a group of educators. Thurmond is the former commissioner of the Department of Labor of Georgia (1999–2011) and currently the chief executive officer of DeKalb County, Georgia. He asked the audience, “What is the most important characteristic of a leader?”
Know what to expect from the Trump administration
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2017

WASHINGTON, D.C. — “It's a mess out there. Any questions?” That's how Terry W. Hartle, senior vice president for government relations and public affairs at the American Council on Education, introduced his federal relations update at the Society for College and University Planning annual international conference.
The effect of nitrogen availability and water conditions on competition between a facultative CAM plant and an invasive grass
Authors: Yu Kailiang , D'Odorico Paolo , Carr David E. , Personius Ashden , Collins Scott L.
Published: August 2017

Abstract Plants with crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) are increasing their abundance in drylands worldwide. The drivers and mechanisms underlying the increased dominance of CAM plants and CAM expression (i.e., nocturnal carboxylation) in facultative CAM plants, however, remain poorly understood. We investigated how nutrient and water availability affected competition between Mesembryanthemum crystallinum (a model facultative CAM species) and the invasive C3 grass Bromus mollis that co‐occur in California's coastal grasslands. Specifically we investigated the extent to which water stress, nutrients, and competition affect nocturnal carboxylation in M. crystallinum. High nutrient and low water conditions favored M. crystallinum over B. mollis, in contrast to high water conditions. While low water conditions induced nocturnal carboxylation in 9‐week‐old individuals of M. crystallinum, in these low water treatments, a 66% reduction in nutrient applied over the entire experiment did not further enhance nocturnal carboxylation. In high water conditions M. crystallinum both alone and in association with B. mollis did not perform nocturnal carboxylation, regardless of the nutrient levels. Thus, nocturnal carboxylation in M. crystallinum was restricted by strong competition with B. mollis in high water conditions. This study provides empirical evidence of the competitive advantage of facultative CAM plants over grasses in drought conditions and of the restricted ability of M. crystallinum to use their photosynthetic plasticity (i.e., ability to switch to CAM behavior) to compete with grasses in well‐watered conditions. We suggest that a high drought tolerance could explain the increased dominance of facultative CAM plants in a future environment with increased drought and nitrogen deposition, while the potential of facultative CAM plants such as M. crystallinum to expand to wet environments is expected to be limited.
Tracing coco de mer's reproductive history: Pollen and nutrient limitations reduce fecundity
Authors: Morgan Emma J. , Kaiser‐Bunbury Christopher N. , Edwards Peter J. , Fleischer‐Dogley Frauke , Kettle Chris J.
Published: August 2017

Habitat degradation can reduce or even prevent the reproduction of previously abundant plant species. To develop appropriate management strategies, we need to understand the reasons for reduced recruitment in degraded ecosystems. The dioecious coco de mer palm (Lodoicea maldivica) produces by far the largest seeds of any plant. It is a keystone species in an ancient palm forest that occurs only on two small islands in the Seychelles, yet contemporary rates of seed production are low, especially in fragmented populations. We developed a method to infer the recent reproductive history of female trees from morphological evidence present on their inflorescences. We then applied this method to investigate the effects of habitat disturbance and soil nutrient conditions on flower and fruit production. The 57 female trees in our sample showed a 19.5‐fold variation in flower production among individuals over a seven‐year period. Only 77.2% of trees bore developing fruits (or had recently shed fruits), with the number per tree ranging from zero to 43. Flower production was positively correlated with concentrations of available soil nitrogen and potassium and did not differ significantly between closed and degraded habitat. Fruiting success was positively correlated with pollen availability, as measured by numbers and distance of neighboring male trees. Fruit set was lower in degraded habitat than in closed forest, while the proportion of abnormal fruits that failed to develop was higher in degraded habitat. Seed size recorded for a large sample of seeds collected by forest wardens varied widely, with fresh weights ranging from 1 to 18 kg.Synthesis: Shortages of both nutrients and pollen appear to limit seed production ofLodoiceain its natural habitat, with these factors affecting different stages of the reproductive process. Flower production varies widely amongst trees, while seed production is especially low in degraded habitat. The size of seeds is also very variable. We discuss the implications of these findings for managing this ecologically and economically important species.
Cumulative effects of fire and drought in Mediterranean ecosystems
Authors: Batllori Enric , De Cáceres Miquel , Brotons Lluís , Ackerly David D. , Moritz Max A. , Lloret Francisco
Published: August 2017

The occurrence of multiple disturbances can jointly affect the recovery capacity of ecosystems, potentially leading to changes in vegetation dynamics or loss of resilience. The effects of interacting disturbances on ecosystems are, however, not well understood. We use a model system based on Mediterranean‐type ecosystems (MTEs) to examine how the interplay between vegetation regeneration traits and compound, stochastic disturbances modulate ecosystem dynamics. We developed a state‐and‐transition simulation model including two tree species with contrasting regeneration strategies (seeder vs. resprouter) and a shrubland formation. We aim to assess potential compositional switches under contrasted scenarios of compound fire–drought regimes, and to characterize the cumulative effects of fire–drought (synergism vs. antagonism) relative to the effects of individual disturbance regimes. Our simulation results indicate that interaction between moderate fire and sporadic drought recurrence—as opposed to chronic dryness—can act as a strong mechanism generating highly heterogeneous landscapes in which different regeneration types coexist, as observed in MTEs. Resprouters dominated under individual, moderate disturbance regimes of fire or drought, whereas the interaction of the two disturbances promoted the long‐term coexistence of both tree regeneration strategies. However, shrubland expansion and persistence at the expanse of forests was favored by increases in drought recurrence and associated fire–drought interactions, highlighting the potential for important vegetation changes in MTEs under climate change. Overall, the cumulative effects of fire and drought can lead to distinct landscape configurations under moderate disturbance regimes that are otherwise only attained under high frequency of individual disturbances. At the ecosystem level, however, we suggest that disturbance‐induced vegetation dynamics can modify vegetation sensitivity and resilience to further disturbances precluding the prevalence of synergistic effects of the two disturbances.
Impact of RE's Anti‐Islanding on Power System Oscillatory Stability
Authors: KOMAMI SHINTARO , SAKATA TOMOAKI , YAMADA SEIJI
Published: August 2017

Although computer simulation is certainly a powerful tool for power system stability assessment, manual analysis is more helpful for understanding mechanism of unstable phenomena. Among unstable phenomena, oscillatory stability must be the most complex one. The paper analyzes the impact of recently developed Japanese RE's standard active anti‐islanding function named “frequency feedback with step injection” on power system oscillatory stability. Since active anti‐islanding makes islanded system unstable, it also makes stability of large interconnection worse. The question is how serious is the impact and how the impact can be mitigated. The paper presents a method for oscillatory stability analysis considering induction motor load, RE, and anti‐islanding function on RE so minutely as readers can reproduce. Analyses are performed as case studies on aggregated power sending and receiving systems in existing interconnection of Japan. The analyses results are verified by simulation results on the same case studies.
Photoactivatable CO‐Releasing Properties of {Ru(CO)2}‐Core Pyridylbenzimidazole Complexes and Reactivity towards Lysozyme
Authors: Mansour Ahmed M. , Shehab Ola R.
Published: August 2017

The photoinduced CO‐releasing properties of [RuLPy(CO)2Cl2] (1), [Ru(LPy2Bz‐ĸ2N1,N2)(CO)2Cl2] (2), and [Ru(LPy2Bz–Et‐ĸ3N1,N2,N3)(CO)2(Cl)]·PF6 (3) [LPy = 2‐(2‐pyridyl)benzimidazole, LPy2Bz = 2,6‐bis(benzimidazole‐2′‐yl)pyridine, and LPy2Bz–Et = 2,6‐bis(1‐ethyl‐benzimidazol‐2′‐yl)pyridine] in both DMSO and reduced myoglobin solution are reported. Complexes 1 and 2 release CO upon illumination at 365 nm. The bidentate chelation mode of LPy2Bz in 2 is changed into a meridional tridentate mode upon the ethylation of the benzimidazolic NH groups, 3. The extension of the conjugation system and the shift of the MLCT band into the visible region in 3 give rise to the RuII dicarbonyl complex capable of releasing CO at 468 nm. During illumination of 2, the chelation mode of LPy2Bz is changed from ĸ2N1,N2 to ĸ3N1,N2,N3, as monitored by solution NMR spectroscopic studies. The spectral properties were studied by TD‐DFT calculations. The interaction of 1–3 with hen‐egg‐white lysozyme, as a biocompatible carrier, has been studied by ESI‐MS and UV/Vis spectroscopy in the dark and upon illumination. Stable protein adducts containing the RuII(CO)2 moiety, capable of photoinduced release of CO, are formed.
Fast separation of enantiomers by capillary electrophoresis using a combination of two capillaries with different internal diameters
Authors: Šebestová Andrea , Petr Jan
Published: August 2017

The combination of capillaries with different internal diameters was used to accelerate the separation of enantiomers in capillary electrophoresis. Separation of R,S‐1,1′‐binaphthalene‐2,2′‐diyl hydrogen phosphate using isopropyl derivative of cyclofructan 6 was studied as a model system. The best separation conditions included 500 mM sodium borate pH 9.5 with 60 mM concentration of the chiral selector. Separation lasted approx. 1.5 min using the combination of 50 and 100 μm id capillaries of 9.7 cm and 22.9 cm, respectively. It allowed approx. 12‐fold acceleration in comparison to the traditional long‐end separation mainly due to the higher electroosmotic flow generated in the connected capillaries.
Follow 6 steps for evaluating refugee student credentials
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: August 2017

No transcripts, no diplomas, and very few documents that can validate a potential student's academic history — this is the situation you might face when working with a student who is a refugee.
Prepare for changes on campus by gaining insight into new generation of students
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: August 2017

Whether you think of those born after 1997 as “Generation Me,” “Generation We,” “Generation Z,” the “Homeland Generation,” the “Selfie Generation,” “Generation Instant Gratification,” “Generation Reality TV,” or “The Centennials,” it's time for campus professionals to prepare to engage with this latest generation of students hitting college campuses, according to Damon A. Williams, Ph.D.
Review 7 trends in higher education
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: August 2017

The last time I wrote for this publication about trends in higher education was February of this year. A lot has happened since then, both domestically and internationally, in higher education. So I thought it would be useful to take another look at some of the trends that are shaping higher education as the next academic year begins.
Enhancement of furfural formation from C5 carbohydrates by NaCl in a green reaction system of CO2–water–isopropanol
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Lin Haizhou , Wang Shurong
Published: August 2017

A novel green reaction system of CO2–water–isopropanol has been developed for the production of furfural (FF) from xylose. Initially, a simple CO2–water system was investigated, and the results showed that the formation of FF from xylose was greatly enhanced. CO2 at high pressure could increase the acidity of the reaction system, and thus the FF yield was improved. By raising the reaction temperature, the conversion of xylose was remarkably accelerated in the CO2–water–isopropanol system, leading to an acceptable conversion rate (94.41%) and FF yield (55.81%). Addition of an appropriate amount of NaCl further increased the yield to 69.20%. Other carbohydrates (arabinose and xylan) were also tested in the same reaction system and modest results were obtained.
Impaired microglia process dynamics post‐stroke are specific to sites of secondary neurodegeneration
Authors: Kluge Murielle G. , Kracht Laura , Abdolhoseini Mahmoud , Ong Lin Kooi , Johnson Sarah J. , Nilsson Michael , Walker Frederick R.
Published: August 2017

Stroke induces tissue death both at the site of infarction and at secondary sites connected to the primary infarction. This latter process has been referred to as secondary neurodegeneration (SND). Using predominantly fixed tissue analyses, microglia have been implicated in regulating the initial response at both damage sites post‐stroke. In this study, we used acute slice based multiphoton imaging, to investigate microglia dynamic process movement in mice 14 days after a photothrombotic stroke. We evaluated the baseline motility and process responses to locally induced laser damage in both the peri‐infarct (PI) territory and the ipsilateral thalamus, a major site of post‐stroke SND. Our findings show that microglia process extension toward laser damage within the thalamus is lost, yet remains robustly intact within the PI territory. However, microglia at both sites displayed an activated morphology and elevated levels of commonly used activation markers (CD68, CD11b), indicating that the standardly used fixed tissue metrics of microglial “activity” are not necessarily predictive of microglia function. Analysis of the purinergic P2Y12 receptor, a key regulator of microglia process extension, revealed an increased somal localization on nonresponsive microglia in the thalamus. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify a non‐responsive microglia phenotype specific to areas of SND post‐stroke, which cannot be identified by the classical assessment of microglia activation but rather the localization of P2Y12 to the soma.
Combination of cuprizone and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis to study inflammatory brain lesion formation and progression
Authors: Rüther Bernhard Josef , Scheld Miriam , Dreymueller Daniela , Clarner Tim , Kress Eugenia , Brandenburg Lars‐Ove , Swartenbroekx Tine , Hoornaert Chloé , Ponsaerts Peter , Fallier‐Becker Petra , Beyer Cordian , Rohr Sven Olaf , Schmitz Christoph , Chrzanowski Uta , Hochstrasser Tanja , Nyamoya Stella , Kipp Markus
Published: August 2017

Brain‐intrinsic degenerative cascades are a proposed factor driving inflammatory lesion formation in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. We recently described a model combining noninflammatory cytodegeneration (via cuprizone) with the classic active experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (Cup/EAE model), which exhibits inflammatory forebrain lesions. Here, we describe the histopathological characteristics and progression of these Cup/EAE lesions. We show that inflammatory lesions develop at various topographical sites in the forebrain, including white matter tracts and cortical and subcortical grey matter areas. The lesions are characterized by focal demyelination, discontinuation of the perivascular glia limitans, focal axonal damage, and neutrophil granulocyte extravasation. Transgenic mice with enhanced green fluorescent protein‐expressing microglia and red fluorescent protein‐expressing monocytes reveal that both myeloid cell populations contribute to forebrain inflammatory infiltrates. EAE‐triggered inflammatory cerebellar lesions were augmented in mice pre‐intoxicated with cuprizone. Gene expression studies suggest roles of the chemokines Cxcl10, Ccl2, and Ccl3 in inflammatory lesion formation. Finally, follow‐up experiments in Cup/EAE mice with chronic disease revealed that forebrain, but not spinal cord, lesions undergo spontaneous reorganization and repair. This study underpins the significance of brain‐intrinsic degenerative cascades for immune cell recruitment and, in consequence, MS lesion formation.
A systematic investigation on the structure, energy, aromaticity, and stability of substituted X5Y5C10 nanocages (X=B, Al, Ga, and Y=N, P, As)
Authors: Soleimani‐Amiri Somayeh
Published: August 2017

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are applied to devise highly doped Cs symmetry X5Y5C10 (X=B, Al, Ga, and Y=N, P, As) heterofullerenes where the substituents are completely linked to each other by means of strong X–Y bonds in equatorial position. The structural stabilities, geometry, and electronic properties of these systems are compared and contrasted at the B3LYP/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ, B3LYP/6‐311++G**, B3LYP/6‐311+G*, and B3PW91/6‐311+G* computational levels. Vibrational frequency analysis confirms that all of these nonsegregated nanocages are real minima. B5N5C10 immerges with the highest HOMO‐LUMO energy separation (2.18 eV). Hence, it is predicted to be the most chemically stable against electronic excitation. In contrast, Al5N5C10 that appears with the narrowest band gaps (1.13 eV), the highest conductivity, and the most charge transfer is the best candidate for hydrogen storage. Assuming the heat of atomization, B5N5C10 is expected to be the most thermodynamically stable heterofullerene. The nucleus‐independent chemical shift calculations at cage center and 1 Å above the cage center are exhibited the most negative value of NICS (0), NICS (1) (−28.08 and −37.80 ppm, respectively) and the most aromaticity for Ga5N5C10 heterofullerene.
A Physical‐Inorganic Approach for the Elucidation of Active Iron Species and Mechanism in Iron‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Carpenter Stephanie H. , Neidig Michael L.
Published: August 2017

Detailed studies of iron speciation and mechanism in iron‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions are critical for providing the necessary fundamental insight to drive new reaction development. However, such insight is challenging to obtain due to the prevalence of mixtures of unstable, paramagnetic organoiron species that can form in this chemistry. A physical‐inorganic research approach combining freeze‐trapped inorganic spectroscopic studies, organometallic synthesis and GC/kinetic studies provides a powerful method for studying such systems. Mössbauer, EPR and MCD spectroscopy enable the direct investigation of in situ formed iron species and, combined with GC analysis, the direct correlation of reactions of specific iron species to the generation of organic products. This review focuses on a description of the key methods involved in this physical‐inorganic approach, as well as examples of its application to investigations of iron‐SciOPP catalyzed cross‐coupling catalysis.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of nonpharmacological adjuvant interventions for patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatment
Authors: Chu Kun , Zhang Qing , Han Hedong , Xu Chen , Pang Wenjuan , Ma Yan , Sun Ningxia , Li Wen
Published: August 2017

Background

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is not always successful, yet places a high psychological burden on individuals.

Objectives

To assess whether nonpharmacological adjuvant interventions could improve outcomes among patients receiving ART.

Search strategy

Electronic databases were searched from inception to March 2017, using keywords such as “fertility treatment,” “emotional distress,” and “clinical pregnancy.”

Selection criteria

Reports of randomized controlled trials investigating the impact of nonpharmacological interventions on emotional disorders and the pregnancy rate in patients receiving ART published in any language were included.

Data collection and analysis

Data were extracted into a predesigned form. Psychological ratings were pooled using standardized mean differences (SMDs). Heterogeneity was assessed. The primary outcome measures were psychological ratings at baseline and after intervention.

Main results

Overall, 34 randomized controlled trials, with a total of 7213 patients, met the inclusion criteria. Nonpharmacological interventions reduced anxiety when compared with control interventions (SMD 0.25, 95% confidence interval 0.08–0.42; I2=85%), but they had no significant effects on depression and infertility distress.

Conclusions

Nonpharmacological interventions could improve the psychological outcomes of patients undergoing ART treatment.
A genetic variant in a homocysteine metabolic gene that increases the risk of congenital cardiac septal defects in Han Chinese populations
Authors: Xie Han‐Hui , Li Jiong , Li Pei‐Qiang , Zhang An‐An , Li Yi , Wang Yan‐Zhen , Xie Ding‐Xiong , Xie Xiao‐Dong
Published: August 2017

Elevated homocysteine levels are known to be a risk factor for congenital cardiac septal defects (CCSDs), but the mechanism underlying this effect is unknown. The genetic variants that were significantly associated with circulating homocysteine concentrations have been systematically identified through the genome‐wide association studies of one‐carbon core metabolites. To examine the role of the genome‐wide significant homocysteine related variants in the occurrence of CCSDs, we investigated the association between these variants and CCSDs in Han Chinese populations. Five variants of the genome‐wide significant homocysteine‐related genes were selected for analysis in two stages of case‐controlled studies with a total of 904 CCSD patients and 997 controls. SYT9 expression was detected in human cardiovascular tissue using qRT‐PCR. The intronic variant rs11041321 of the SYT9 gene was associated with an increased risk of developing CCSDs in both the separate and combined case‐controlled studies. Combined samples from the two stage cohorts had a significant elevation in CCSD risk for the T allele (OR = 1.43, P = 2.6 × 10−6), CT genotype and TT genotype (CT: OR = 1.30, TT: OR = 2.21; P = 1 × 10−4) compared with the wild‐type C allele and CC genotype, respectively. The risky T allele carriers exhibited decreased SYT9 mRNA expression, compared with wild‐type C allele carriers. The intronic SYT9 variant rs11041321, which exhibits a significant genome‐wide association with circulating homocysteine, was associated with the occurrence of CCSDs. This finding helps to characterize the unexpected role of SYT9 in homocysteine metabolism and the development of CCSDs, which further highlighted the interplay of diet, genetics, and human birth defects. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(9):700–705, 2017
Synthesis, binding ability, and cell cytotoxicity of fluorescent probes for l‐arginine detection based on naphthalene derivatives: Experiment and theory
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Yang , Chen Yanmei , Shang Xuefang , Ti Tongyu , Chen Hongli , Wang Tianyun , Zhang Jinlian , Xu Xiufang
Published: August 2017

Inspired by biological related parts, Schiff base derivatives and functional groups of chemical modification can provide efficient detection method of amino acids. Therefore, we have designed and prepared 4 compounds based on Schiff base derivatives involving ─NO2, ─OH, and naphthyl group. Results indicated that compound 4 containing 2 nitro groups showed strong sensitivity and high selectivity for arginine (Arg) among normal 18 kinds of standard amino acids (alanine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, arginine, glycine, serine, asparagine, phenylalanine, histidine, tryptophan, proline, lysine, glutamine, and cysteine). Theoretical investigation also approved the strong binding ability of compound 4 for Arg. In addition, compound 4 displayed high combining ability of Arg and low cytotoxicity of MCF‐7 cell in the 0 to 150 μg mL−1 of concentration range; it can be used for Arg in vivo detection of fluorescent probe.
Investigation of magnetoelectric multilayer laminate composites with series and parallel electrical connections
Authors: Yang G. , Talleb H. , Ren Z.
Published: August 2017

This paper investigates the performance of magnetoelectric composites composed of multilayer magnetostrictive and piezoelectric laminates in which the series and parallel electrical connections are applied. The multiphysics simulations have been performed according to the different longitudinal and transversal magnetization and polarization modes using a numerical model based on the finite element method and an analytical formulation based on the equivalent circuit model. The obtained results highlight the limitation of the analytical formulation to model the multilayer composites when an alternative opposing polarization between each neighboring piezoelectric layer is applied.
Passivity verification and enforcement—A review paper
Authors: Mahanta Protap Kumar , Yamin Nuzhat , Zadehgol Ata
Published: August 2017

Today's advanced high‐speed technology requires building behavioral models of systems, from measured/simulated data, with increasingly higher operating frequencies. Different research efforts have come to light in literature for macromodeling, based on such types of data. Ensuring passivity is one of the most fundamental issues affecting system macromodeling, because system‐level performance can be unstable if even a single component of the system becomes nonpassive. Thus, from the computer‐aided design perspective, generation and provision of macromodels, while preserving passivity, is a significant challenge. In this paper, we carefully review novel techniques of passive macromodeling as well as their passivity verification and enforcement, from the early days to the present. We critically review the prominent methods in literature developed for macromodeling, and for verification and enforcement of passivity, and emphasize on their strengths and shortcomings.
Neuroprotective potential of astroglia
Authors: Liu Beihui , Teschemacher A. G. , Kasparov Sergey
Published: August 2017

Astroglia are the homoeostatic cells of the central nervous system, which participate in all essential functions of the brain. Astrocytes support neuronal networks by handling water and ion fluxes, transmitter clearance, provision of antioxidants, and metabolic precursors and growth factors. The critical dependence of neurons on constant support from the astrocytes confers astrocytes with intrinsic neuroprotective properties. On the other hand, loss of astrocytic support or their pathological transformation compromises neuronal functionality and viability. Manipulating neuroprotective functions of astrocytes is thus an important strategy to enhance neuronal survival and improve outcomes in disease states. © 2017 The Authors Journal of Neuroscience Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Orthogonal strategy development using reversed macroporous resin coupled with hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography for the separation of ginsenosides from ginseng root extract
Authors: Wu Yajun , Liu Jingjing , Gu Su , Lin Li , Chen Yingzhuang , Ma Ming , Chen Bo
Published: August 2017

Ginsenosides have been widely conceded as having various biological activities and are considered to be the active ingredient of ginseng. Nowadays, preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography is considered to be a highly efficient method for ginseng saponins purification and preparation. However, in the process of practical application, due to the complex and varied composition of natural products and relatively simple pretreatment process, it is likely to block the chromatographic column and affect the separation efficiency and its service life. In this work, an orthogonal strategy was developed; in the first‐dimension separation, reverse‐phase macroporous resin was applied to remove impurities in ginseng crude extracts and classified ginseng extracts into protopanaxatriol and protopanaxadiol fractions. In the second‐dimension separation, the obtained fractions were further separated by a preparative hydrophilic column, and finally yielded 11 pure compounds. Eight of them identified as ginsenoside Rh1, Rg2, Rd, Rc, Rb2, Rb1, Rg1, and Re by standards comparison and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The purity of these ginsenosides was assessed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV detection.
Magnetic micro‐solid‐phase extraction based on magnetite‐MCM‐41 with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry for the determination of antidepressant drugs in biological fluids
Authors: Kamaruzaman Sazlinda , Sanagi Mohd Marsin , Yahaya Noorfatimah , Wan Ibrahim Wan Aini , Endud Salasiah , Wan Ibrahim Wan Nazihah
Published: August 2017

A new facile magnetic micro‐solid‐phase extraction coupled to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry detection was developed for the extraction and determination of selected antidepressant drugs in biological fluids using magnetite‐MCM‐41 as adsorbent. The synthesized sorbent was characterized by several spectroscopic techniques. The maximum extraction efficiency for extraction of 500 μg/L antidepressant drugs from aqueous solution was obtained with 15 mg of magnetite‐MCM‐41 at pH 12. The analyte was desorbed using 100 μL of acetonitrile prior to gas chromatography determination. This method was rapid in which the adsorption procedure was completed in 60 s. Under the optimized conditions using 15 mL of antidepressant drugs sample, the calibration curve showed good linearity in the range of 0.05–500 μg/L (r2 = 0.996–0.999). Good limits of detection (0.008–0.010 μg/L) were obtained for the analytes with good relative standard deviations of <8.0% (n = 5) for the determination of 0.1, 5.0, and 500.0 μg/L of antidepressant drugs. This method was successfully applied to the determination of amitriptyline and chlorpromazine in plasma and urine samples. The recoveries of spiked plasma and urine samples were in the range of 86.1–115.4%. Results indicate that magnetite micro‐solid‐phase extraction with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry is a convenient, fast, and economical method for the extraction and determination of amitriptyline and chlorpromazine in biological samples.
Patterns and drivers of deep chlorophyll maxima structure in 100 lakes: The relative importance of light and thermal stratification
Authors: Leach Taylor H. , Beisner Beatrix E. , Carey Cayelan C. , Pernica Patricia , Rose Kevin C. , Huot Yannick , Brentrup Jennifer A. , Domaizon Isabelle , Grossart Hans‐Peter , Ibelings Bastiaan W. , Jacquet Stéphan , Kelly Patrick T. , Rusak James A. , Stockwell Jason D. , Straile Dietmar , Verburg Piet
Published: August 2017

The vertical distribution of chlorophyll in stratified lakes and reservoirs frequently exhibits a maximum peak deep in the water column, referred to as the deep chlorophyll maximum (DCM). DCMs are ecologically important hot spots of primary production and nutrient cycling, and their location can determine vertical habitat gradients for primary consumers. Consequently, the drivers of DCM structure regulate many characteristics of aquatic food webs and biogeochemistry. Previous studies have identified light and thermal stratification as important drivers of summer DCM depth, but their relative importance across a broad range of lakes is not well resolved. We analyzed profiles of chlorophyll fluorescence, temperature, and light during summer stratification from 100 lakes in the Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network (GLEON) and quantified two characteristics of DCM structure: depth and thickness. While DCMs do form in oligotrophic lakes, we found that they can also form in eutrophic to dystrophic lakes. Using a random forest algorithm, we assessed the relative importance of variables associated with light attenuation vs. thermal stratification for predicting DCM structure in lakes that spanned broad gradients of morphometry and transparency. Our analyses revealed that light attenuation was a more important predictor of DCM depth than thermal stratification and that DCMs deepen with increasing lake clarity. DCM thickness was best predicted by lake size with larger lakes having thicker DCMs. Additionally, our analysis demonstrates that the relative importance of light and thermal stratification on DCM structure is not uniform across a diversity of lake types.
Flight planning: node‐based trajectory prediction and turbulence avoidance
Authors: Cheung Jacob C. H.
Published: August 2017

To tackle the ever‐growing demand for air travel, the aviation industry has expressed great interest in assessing the impact weather uncertainty has on flight planning. However, due to the opacity of commercial flight planning systems, there has been an absence of a suitable research platform which weather centres could use to test and convey advancements in numerical weather prediction (NWP) to benefit operational flight planning.

In this paper, a simple yet versatile trajectory prediction system that aims to bridge the gap between NWP centres and the industry is proposed. The proposed system is based on A*, a node‐based pathfinding approach which is simple to implement and configured to suit any requirements. Unlike analytical solutions, research findings from the proposed system can be readily implemented in commercial flight planning systems. An example of how clear air turbulence could have been considered before take‐off and avoided is presented.
Mutations in fetal genes involved in innate immunity and host defense against microbes increase risk of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM)
Authors: Modi Bhavi P. , Teves Maria E. , Pearson Laurel N. , Parikh Hardik I. , Haymond‐Thornburg Hannah , Tucker John L. , Chaemsaithong Piya , Gomez‐Lopez Nardhy , York Timothy P. , Romero Roberto , Strauss Jerome F.
Published: August 2017

Background

Twin studies have revealed a significant contribution of the fetal genome to risk of preterm birth. Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is the leading identifiable cause of preterm delivery. Infection and inflammation of the fetal membranes is commonly found associated with PPROM.

Methods

We carried out whole exome sequencing (WES) of genomic DNA from neonates born of African‐American mothers whose pregnancies were complicated by PPROM (76) or were normal term pregnancies (N = 43) to identify mutations in 35 candidate genes involved in innate immunity and host defenses against microbes. Targeted genotyping of mutations in the candidates discovered by WES was conducted on an additional 188 PPROM cases and 175 controls.

Results

We identified rare heterozygous nonsense and frameshift mutations in several of the candidate genes, including CARD6, CARD8, DEFB1, FUT2, MBL2, NLP10, NLRP12, and NOD2. We discovered that some mutations (CARD6, DEFB1, FUT2, MBL2, NLRP10, NOD2) were present only in PPROM cases.

Conclusions

We conclude that rare damaging mutations in innate immunity and host defense genes, the majority being heterozygous, are more frequent in neonates born of pregnancies complicated by PPROM. These findings suggest that the risk of preterm birth in African‐Americans may be conferred by mutations in multiple genes encoding proteins involved in dampening the innate immune response or protecting the host against microbial infection and microbial products.
A V‐band high dynamic range planar integrated power detector: Design and characterization process
Authors: Hannachi C. , Zouggari B. , Cojocaru Razvan I. , Djerafi T. , Tatu S. O.
Published: August 2017

In this paper, a high dynamic range V‐band power detector designed in thin film Miniature Hybrid Microwave Integrated Circuit (MHMIC) process is presented and characterized. The commercially available HSCH‐9161 millimeter‐wave zero bias GaAs Schottky diode is selected to manufacture the proposed power detector circuit, along with a broadband rectangular WR12 waveguide to microstrip transition, and an optimized microstrip impedance matching network. The design and characterization steps are described in detail to provide a consistent methodology to design high‐performance power detectors, while taking into account the accuracy, nonlinearity, and limitation of the measurement devices. The fabricated power detector prototype exhibits good input impedance matching (bandwidth of 3.8 GHz), high operational stability over 58.5–62 GHz frequency range, excellent sensitivity (−48 dBm), and high detection responsivity (peak of 8250 mV/mW at 61.2 GHz).