bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facile carrier-assisted targeted mass spectrometric approach for proteomic analysis of low numbers of mammalian cells
Authors: Shi Tujin , Gaffrey Matthew J. , Fillmore Thomas L. , Nicora Carrie D. , Yi Lian , Zhang Pengfei , Shukla Anil K. , Wiley H. Steven , Rodland Karin D. , Liu Tao , Smith Richard D. , Qian Wei-Jun
Published: July 2018

There is an unmet technical challenge for mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic analysis of single mammalian cells. Quantitative proteomic analysis of single cells has been previously achieved by antibody-based immunoassays but is limited by the availability of high-quality antibodies. Herein we report a facile targeted MS-based proteomics method, termed cPRISM-SRM (carrier-assisted high-pressure, high-resolution separations with intelligent selection and multiplexing coupled to selected reaction monitoring), for reliable analysis of low numbers of mammalian cells. The method capitalizes on using “carrier protein” to assist processing of low numbers of cells with minimal loss, high-resolution PRISM separation for target peptide enrichment, and sensitive SRM for protein quantification. We have demonstrated that cPRISM-SRM has sufficient sensitivity to quantify proteins expressed at ≥200,000 copies per cell at the single-cell level and ≥3000 copies per cell in 100 mammalian cells. We envision that with further improvement cPRISM-SRM has the potential to move toward targeted MS-based single-cell proteomics.
Geographically-stratified HIV-1 group M pol subtype and circulating recombinant form sequences
Authors: Rhee Soo-Yon , Shafer Robert W.
Published: July 2018

Accurate classification of HIV-1 group M lineages, henceforth referred to as subtyping, is essential for understanding global HIV-1 molecular epidemiology. Because most HIV-1 sequencing is done for genotypic resistance testing pol gene, we sought to develop a set of geographically-stratified pol sequences that represent HIV-1 group M sequence diversity. Representative pol sequences differ from representative complete genome sequences because not all CRFs have pol recombination points and because complete genome sequences may not faithfully reflect HIV-1 pol diversity. We developed a software pipeline that compiled 6,034 one-per-person complete HIV-1 pol sequences annotated by country and year belonging to 11 pure subtypes and 70 CRFs and selected a set of sequences whose average distance to the remaining sequences is minimized for each subtype/CRF and country to generate a Geographically-Stratified set of 716 Pol Subtype/CRF (GSPS) reference sequences. We provide extensive data on pol diversity within each subtype/CRF and country combination. The GSPS reference set will also be useful for HIV-1 pol subtyping.
High-throughput computational X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Mathew Kiran , Zheng Chen , Winston Donald , Chen Chi , Dozier Alan , Rehr John J. , Ong Shyue Ping , Persson Kristin A.
Published: July 2018

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is a widely-used materials characterization technique. In this work we present a database of computed XAS spectra, using the Green's formulation of the multiple scattering theory implemented in the FEFF code. With more than 500,000 K-edge X-ray absorption near edge (XANES) spectra for more than 40,000 unique materials, this database constitutes the largest existing collection of computed XAS spectra to date. The data is openly distributed via the Materials Project, enabling researchers across the world to access it for free and use it for comparisons with experiments and further analysis.
Fifteen–year record of soil temperature at the Bear Brook Watershed in Maine
Authors: Patel Kaizad F. , Nelson Sarah J. , Spencer Cheryl J. , Fernandez Ivan J.
Published: July 2018

This paper describes a record of air and soil temperature collected from 2001 to 2016 in temperate forests at the Bear Brook Watershed in Maine (BBWM). BBWM is a long-term research site established to study the response of forest ecosystem function to various environmental disturbances, including chronic acidic deposition. Replicate HOBO data loggers were deployed in BBWM’s two forest types (coniferous and deciduous), to record temperatures at four positions: (1) air temperature, 100 cm above the forest floor; (2) surface organic soil, 2 cm below the forest floor surface; (3) mineral soil, 10 cm below the organic–mineral horizon interface; and (4) mineral soil, 25 cm below the organic–mineral horizon interface. Data were recorded every three hours, and these raw data were used to compute daily maximum, daily minimum, daily average, and monthly average values. This fifteen–year record represents one of the few readily–available soil temperature datasets in the region, and provides information on long-term changes in climatology, and seasonal and episodic weather patterns.
Au nanocluster-embedded chitosan nanocapsules as labels for the ultrasensitive fluorescence immunoassay of Escherichia coli O157:H7
Authors: Cheng Chang , Yang Lu , Zhong Miao , Deng Wenfang , Tan Yueming , Xie Qingji , Yao Shouzhuo
Published: July 2018

Ultrasensitive fluorescence immunoassay of Escherichia coli O157:H7 is described using Au nanocluster-embedded chitosan nanocapsules as labels.
Intracellular delivery and biodistribution study of CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein loaded bioreducible lipidoid nanoparticles
Authors: Li Yamin , Bolinger Justin , Yu Yingjie , Glass Zachary , Shi Nicola , Yang Liu , Wang Ming , Xu Qiaobing
Published: July 2018

A combinatorial library of cationic lipidoids were used as nanocarriers for intracellular delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complex.
Core–shell–shell cytocompatible polymer dot-based particles with near-infrared emission and enhanced dispersion stability
Authors: Shanks Hannah R. , Zhu Mingning , Milani Amir H. , Turton James , Haigh Sarah , Hodson Nigel W. , Adlam Daman , Hoyland Judith , Freemont Tony , Saunders Brian R.
Published: July 2018

Core–shell–shell particles with incorporated near-infrared polymer dots give high brightness, increased colloidal stability, and non-radiative resonance energy transfer.
Uranyl dication mediated photoswitching of a calix[4]pyrrole-based metal coordination cage
Authors: Lee Juhoon , Brewster James T. , Song Bo , Lynch Vincent M. , Hwang Inhong , Li Xiaopeng , Sessler Jonathan L.
Published: July 2018

A set of self-assembled tri- and tetrapodal metal coordination cage structures (cage-1 and cage-2, respectively) constructed from the uranyl dication (UO22+) and a dibenzoic acid functionalised cis-calix[4]pyrrole (1) are described.
Cu-Catalyzed switchable synthesis of functionalized pyridines and pyrroles
Authors: Ling Zheng , Xie Fang , Gridnev Ilya D. , Terada Masahiro , Zhang Wanbin
Published: July 2018

A switchable synthesis of functionalized pyridines and pyrroles via Cu-catalyzed cascade reactions with N-sulfonyl azadienes and alkynes.
A general two-step one-pot synthesis process of ynones from α-keto acids and 1-iodoalkynes
Authors: Zeng Xiaobao , Liu Chulong , Yang Weiguang , Wang Xingyong , Wang Xinyan , Hu Yuefei
Published: July 2018

A two-step one-pot synthesis process of ynones was developed by cycloaddition of α-keto acids and 1-iodoalkynes followed by a ring-opening reaction.
Li doped kagome spin liquid compounds
Authors: Jiang Wei , Huang Huaqing , Mei Jia-Wei , Liu Feng
Published: July 2018

We elucidate the unexpected insulating features of Li-doped QSL compounds by proposing a charge localization effect due to chemical bonding.
Integrating reduced graphene oxide with microwave-subcritical water for cellulose depolymerization
Authors: Mission Elaine G. , Quitain Armando T. , Hirano Yudai , Sasaki Mitsuru , Cocero Maria Jose , Kida Tetsuya
Published: July 2018

Subcritical water compensates for the loss of functionalities in reduced graphene oxide to facilitate high depolymerization rate of cellulose under microwave.
Geometric design of a Ni@silica nano-capsule catalyst with superb methane dry reforming stability: enhanced confinement effect over the nickel site anchoring inside a capsule shell with an appropriate inner cavity
Authors: Wang Changzhen , Qiu Yuan , Zhang Xiaoming , Zhang Yin , Sun Nannan , Zhao Yongxiang
Published: July 2018

Ni particles confined in sealed nano-capsule shells with anchoring effect demonstrate improved catalytic performance.
trans-1,2-Diaminocyclohexane-based sulfonamides as effective hydrogen-bonding organocatalysts for asymmetric Michael–hemiacetalization reaction
Authors: Dajek Maciej , Kowalczyk Rafał , Boratyński Przemysław J.
Published: July 2018

Simple sulfonamide organocatalysts deliver unparalleled efficiency in the asymmetric Michael–hemiacetalization cascade.
Highly efficient fluorescence sensing of phosphate by dual-emissive lanthanide MOFs
Authors: Cheng Yue , Zhang Huimin , Yang Bin , Wu Jie , Wang Yixiao , Ding Bin , Huo Jianzhong , Li Yan
Published: July 2018

A dual-emissive lanthanide MOF was developed as a self-calibrating fluorescent probe for sensitively and selectively detecting phosphate with the naked eye.
Syntheses, structures and magnetic properties of macrocyclic Schiff base-supported homodinuclear lanthanide complexes
Authors: Gao Feng , Zhang Yi-Quan , Sun Wang , Liu Huan , Chen Xiaoyu
Published: July 2018

Five macrocyclic Schiff base-supported homodinuclear lanthanide complexes were successfully designed and synthesized by template strategy. Theoretical analysis and magnetic measurements reveal dysprosium complex 1 behaves as a typical SMM with intramolecular ferromagnetic Dy3+⋯Dy3+ interaction.
Hydrothermal growth of ferrous hydroxide terephthalate as a new positive electrode material for supercapacitors
Authors: Ou Xiuling , Lei Shuijin , Zhang Xinlai , Wan Kun , Wang Yifan , Zhou Wei , Xiao Yanhe , Cheng Baochang
Published: July 2018

Ni-foam-supported ferrous hydroxide terephthalate is first prepared and applied in supercapacitors with high capacitance at a high mass loading level.
Encapsulating metal nanoparticles inside carbon nanoflakes: a stable absorbent designed from free-standing sandwiched composites
Authors: Lv Jing , Liang Xiaohui , Liu Wei , Chen Jiabin , Yang Zhihong , Ji Guangbin
Published: July 2018

A simple two-step method was used to achieve a stable free-standing sandwich shaped Ni/C nanoflakes absorber with higher conductive loss.
Surface and interface design for photocatalytic water splitting
Authors: Hu Yangguang , Gao Chao , Xiong Yujie
Published: July 2018

Surface and interface structures are considered as the critical parameters which can be engineered to improve the performance of catalysts. This Frontier article highlights our recent advances in surface and interface design toward photocatalytic water splitting.
Generation of stannabenzenes and their monomer–dimer equilibration
Authors: Mizuhata Yoshiyuki , Fujimori Shiori , Noda Naoya , Kanesato Shuhei , Tokitoh Norihiro
Published: July 2018

A combination of bulky aryl and t-butyl groups was found to suppress the dimerization of stannabenzene, giving a monomer/dimer equilibration mixture.
Imidazole derivatives as artificial water channel building-blocks: structural design influence on water permeability
Authors: Sun Zhanhu , Kocsis Istvan , Li Yuhao , Legrand Yves-Marie , Barboiu Mihail
Published: July 2018

A series of mono- and di-ureidoethylimidazole derivatives were tested as self-assembled supramolecular channels for water transport across a vesicle bilayer. Structural modifications of the selected compounds were related to permeability variation.
(−)-Epicatechin induced reversal of endothelial cell aging and improved vascular function: underlying mechanisms
Authors: Ramirez-Sanchez Israel , Mansour Christina , Navarrete-Yañez Viridiana , Ayala-Hernandez Marcos , Guevara Gustavo , Castillo Carmen , Loredo Maria , Bustamante Moises , Ceballos Guillermo , Villarreal Francisco J.
Published: July 2018

The consumption of cocoa products rich in (−)-epicatechin is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk and improved vascular function.
Catalytic conversion of biomass derivatives to lactic acid with increased selectivity in an aqueous tin(ii) chloride/choline chloride system
Authors: Bayu Asep , Yoshida Akihiro , Karnjanakom Surachai , Kusakabe Katsuki , Hao Xiaogang , Prakoso Tirto , Abudula Abuliti , Guan Guoqing
Published: July 2018

The catalytic activity and selectivity of SnCl2 for the conversion of biomass derivatives into LacA in the aqueous phase reaction system was found to be increased by the addition of choline chloride.
A high temperature reversible phase transition in a supramolecular complex of 15-crown-5 with tetraphenylboron sodium
Authors: Yuan Guo-Jun , Liu Shao-Xian , Tian Zheng-Fang , Ren Xiao-Ming
Published: July 2018

High temperature (391 K) reversible phase transition and large thermal hysteresis (19 K) was observed in 15-crown-5 clathrates: [Na(15-crown-5)][BPh4] (15-crown-5 = 1,4,7,10,13-pentaoxacyclopentadecane, NaBPh4 = sodium tetraphenylboron).
Mechanistic investigation of the sulfur precursor evolution in the synthesis of highly photoluminescent Cd0.15Zn0.85S quantum dots
Authors: Loghina Liudmila , Grinco Marina , Iakovleva Anastasia , Slang Stanislav , Palka Karel , Vlcek Miroslav
Published: July 2018

A comparison of four synthetic approaches for highly photoluminescent blue-emitting Cd0.15Zn0.85S QDs using (Z)-1-(octadec-9-enyl)-3-phenylthiourea as a source of sulfur.
Tsavoenones A–C: unprecedented polyketides with a 1,7-dioxadispiro[4.0.4.4]tetradecane core from the lichen Parmotrema tsavoense
Authors: Duong Thuc-Huy , Beniddir Mehdi A. , Genta-Jouve Grégory , Aree Thammarat , Chollet-Krugler Marylène , Boustie Joël , Ferron Solenn , Sauvager Aurélie , Nguyen Huu-Hung , Nguyen Kim-Phi-Phung , Chavasiri Warinthorn , Le Pogam Pierre
Published: July 2018

Three racemic polyketides with a novel scaffold are reported from the lichen Parmotrema tsavoense.
Integrating continuous flow synthesis with in-line analysis and data generation
Authors: Baumann Marcus
Published: July 2018

Continuous flow synthesis of fine chemicals has successfully advanced from an academic niche area to a rapidly growing field of its own that directly impacts developments and applications in industrial settings.
Well-aligned metal–organic framework array-derived CoS2 nanosheets toward robust electrochemical water splitting
Authors: Yao Na , Tan Tan , Yang Fulin , Cheng Gongzhen , Luo Wei
Published: July 2018

Highly open three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical architectures composed of two-dimensional (2D) CoS2 nanosheets grown on carbon cloth (CoS2 NS/CC) have been synthesized by vulcanizing well-aligned MOF-array precursors and further used as superior bifunctional electrocatalysts toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and overall water splitting under alkaline media.
Fluoronitroalkenes in tandem [4 + 1]/[3 + 2]-cycloaddition: one-pot three-component assembly of fluorinated bicyclic nitroso acetals
Authors: Motornov Vladimir A. , Tabolin Andrey A. , Novikov Roman A. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Nenajdenko Valentine G. , Ioffe Sema L.
Published: July 2018

Novel fluorinated bicyclic nitroso acetals were obtained in a highly regio- and diastereo-selective manner via tandem [4 + 1]/[3 + 2]-cycloaddition of fluoronitroalkenes.
Rhodium-catalyzed highly diastereoselective intramolecular [4 + 2] cycloaddition of 1,3-disubstituted allene-1,3-dienes
Authors: Han Yulin , Ma Shengming
Published: July 2018

RhCl(PPh3)3-catalyzed [4 + 2] intramolecular cycloaddition of allene-1,3-dienes afforded cis-fused [3.4.0]-bicyclic products with three chiral centers in good yields with excellent chemo- and diastereoselectivity.
Assessment of the mechanical properties of monolayer graphene using the energy and strain-fluctuation methods
Authors: Thomas Siby , Ajith K. M. , Lee Sang Uck , Valsakumar M. C.
Published: July 2018

Molecular statics and dynamics simulation for the elastic constants of graphene monolayer by the energy and the statistical fluctuation methods.
Surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization grafting from nanoporous cellulose gels to create hydrophobic nanocomposites
Authors: Cheng Dan , Wei Pingdong , Zhang Lina , Cai Jie
Published: July 2018

A cellulose-based nanocomposite was obtained by SI-ATRP with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) monomer and further hydrophobically functionalized with C7F15COCl to give a hydrophobic cellulose nanocomposite.
How to improve Nafion with tailor made annealing
Authors: Narducci Riccardo , Knauth Philippe , Chailan Jean-François , Di Vona Maria Luisa
Published: July 2018

A tailor-made annealing procedure was developed for Nafion in order to avoid a critical degradation of the mechanical properties associated with a decrease of the ionic conductivity.
Effect of dry water on methane separation and recovery from coal mine gas based on hydrate
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Li Chenwei , Wu Qiang , Zhang Baoyong
Published: July 2018

In the DW system, the gas–liquid interface area was enlarged by a factor of 847 in comparison with that in the static-water system.
Improvement of thermoelectric performance of copper-deficient compounds Cu2.5+δIn4.5Te8 (δ = 0–0.15) due to a degenerate impurity band and ultralow lattice thermal conductivity
Authors: Ren Ting , Ying Pengzhan , Cai Gemei , Li Xiaoyan , Han Zhongkang , Min Lei , Cui Jiaolin
Published: July 2018

Improvement of thermoelectric performance of copper-deficient compounds Cu2.5+δIn4.5Te8 (δ = 0–0.15) due to degenerate impurity band (IB) and ultralow lattice thermal conductivity.
Biomaterials from human bone – probing organic fraction removal by chemical and enzymatic methods
Authors: Mamede A. P. , Vassalo A. R. , Cunha E. , Gonçalves D. , Parker S. F. , Batista de Carvalho L. A. E. , Marques M. P. M.
Published: July 2018

The effectiveness of two defatting & deproteination processes of human bone were assessed by combined infrared and inelastic neutron scattering spectroscopies.
An exploratory study of teaching assistants’ motivation for inquiry-based teaching in an undergraduate laboratory context
Authors: Wheeler Lindsay B. , Chiu Jennifer L. , Maeng Jennifer L. , Bell Randy L.
Published: July 2018

Undergraduate science courses typically rely on teaching assistants (TAs) to teach introductory laboratory classes. However little research investigates how to support TAs to implement reform-based teaching in undergraduate settings, and in particular, what factors may influence TAs’ motivation to teach within reform-based instructional contexts. This qualitative study used an Expectancy-Value Theory (EVT) framework of motivation to explore: (1) TAs’ expectancy beliefs and subjective values of project-based inquiry laboratory contexts; (2) relationships among expectancy and subjective value of teaching and reported effort in teaching, and (3) factors (e.g., teaching beliefs, prior teaching and instructional experiences) that may relate to TAs’ motivation for teaching. Data sources included open-ended surveys and interviews of six purposefully selected TAs. Results revealed that TAs held varied views on their ability to be successful and their perceived value of teaching in an inquiry-based laboratory context. TAs’ beliefs and subjective value for teaching appeared to be informed by TAs’ prior experiences with inquiry and interactions with students. Results provide insight into what may motivate TAs to teach within inquiry-based undergraduate science settings. Results underscore the importance of reform-based instruction in undergraduate settings.
Metal–ligand pair anisotropy in a series of mononuclear Er–COT complexes
Authors: Hilgar J. D. , Bernbeck M. G. , Flores B. S. , Rinehart J. D.
Published: July 2018

A series of mononuclear erbium complexes demonstrates a pathway to preserving anisotropy for their use as magnetic building blocks.
Diastereoselective C–H carbonylative annulation of aliphatic amines: a rapid route to functionalized γ-lactams
Authors: Png Zhuang Mao , Cabrera-Pardo Jaime R. , Peiró Cadahía Jorge , Gaunt Matthew J.
Published: July 2018

A palladium(ii)-catalysed C(sp3)–H carbonylation of free(NH) secondary aliphatic amines to 2-pyrrolidinones is described.
A highly transparent and autonomic self-healing organogel from solvent regulation based on hydrazide derivatives
Authors: He Liu , Ran Xia , Li Jinxing , Gao Qiongqiong , Kuang Yanmin , Guo Lijun
Published: July 2018

A solvent-regulated BNB-t4 organogel demonstrates a high transparency and a great self-healing ability.
Highly dispersed Zn nanoparticles confined in a nanoporous carbon network: promising anode materials for sodium and potassium ion batteries
Authors: Yan Chunliu , Gu Xin , Zhang Li , Wang Ying , Yan Liting , Liu Dandan , Li Liangjun , Dai Pengcheng , Zhao Xuebo
Published: July 2018

Highly dispersed Zn nanoparticles confined in a nanoporous carbon network are evaluated as an anode for SIBs and PIBs for the first time.
A wide-bandgap polymer based on the alkylphenyl-substituted benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene unit with high power conversion efficiency of over 11%
Authors: Guo Xia , Li Wanbin , Guo Huan , Guo Bing , Wu Jingnan , Ma Wei , Zhang Maojie , Wong Wai-Yeung
Published: July 2018

A novel wide bandgap polymer PTZP with Eoptg of 2.01 eV was designed and synthesized. PSCs based on PTZP exhibited high PCE of 11.8%. PCEs of over 10% were obtained with an active layer thickness of 200 nm or an area of 0.81 cm2. PTZP was shown to be a promising conjugated polymer for the fabrication of efficient large area PSCs.
High-performance piezoelectric-energy-harvester and self-powered mechanosensing using lead-free potassium–sodium niobate flexible piezoelectric composites
Authors: Wu Mengjun , Zheng Ting , Zheng Haiwu , Li Jifang , Wang Weichao , Zhu Mingsai , Li Fengzhu , Yue Gentian , Gu Yuzong , Wu Jiagang
Published: July 2018

A flexible piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG) was fabricated based on a new inorganic piezoelectric KNN–BNZ–AS–Fe, which exhibited the great potential in energy harvesting and self-powered mechanosensing.
Bioinspired multi-responsive soft actuators controlled by laser tailored graphene structures
Authors: Deng Heng , Zhang Cheng , Su Jheng-Wun , Xie Yunchao , Zhang Chi , Lin Jian
Published: July 2018

Aligned laser induced graphene (LIG) functions as a stiff constraining element for multi-responsive soft actuators with programmable shape transformation.
The neurotoxicity induced by PM2.5 might be strongly related to changes of the hippocampal tissue structure and neurotransmitter levels
Authors: Li Qingzhao , Zheng Jiali , Xu Sheng , Zhang Jingshu , Cao Yanhua , Qin Zhenlong , Liu Xiaoqin , Jiang Chunyang
Published: July 2018

Objective: The complex components of PM2.5 including metal elements transported through the blood brain barrier could induce nervous system damage.
Timing during translation matters: synonymous mutations in human pathologies influence protein folding and function
Authors: Rauscher Robert , Ignatova Zoya
Published: July 2018

Ribosomes translate mRNAs with non-uniform speed. Translation velocity patterns are a conserved feature of mRNA and have evolved to fine-tune protein folding, expression and function. Synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (sSNPs) that alter programmed translational speed affect expression and function of the encoded protein. Synergistic advances in next-generation sequencing have led to the identification of sSNPs associated with disease penetrance. Here, we draw on studies with disease-related proteins to enhance our understanding of mechanistic contributions of sSNPs to functional alterations of the encoded protein. We emphasize the importance of identification of sSNPs along with disease-causing mutations to understand genotype–phenotype relationships.
Differential temporal inhibition of mitochondrial fission by Mdivi-1 exerts effective cardioprotection in cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Maneechote Chayodom , Palee Siripong , Kerdphoo Sasiwan , Jaiwongkam Thidarat , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: July 2018

Altered cardiac mitochondrial dynamics with excessive fission is a predominant cause of cardiac dysfunction during ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Although pre-ischemic inhibition of mitochondrial fission has been shown to improve cardiac function in I/R injury, the effects of this inhibitor given at different time-points during cardiac I/R injury are unknown. Fifty male Wistar rats were subjected to sham and cardiac I/R injury. For cardiac I/R injury, rats were randomly divided into pre-ischemia, during-ischemia, and upon onset of reperfusion group. A mitochondrial fission inhibitor, Mdivi-1 (mitochondrial division inhibitor 1) (1.2 mg/kg) was used. During I/R protocols, the left ventricular (LV) function, arrhythmia score, and mortality rate were determined. Then, the heart was removed to determine infarct size, mitochondrial function, mitochondrial dynamics, and apoptosis. Our results showed that Mdivi-1 given prior to ischemia, exerted the highest level of cardioprotection quantitated through the attenuated incidence of arrhythmia, reduced infarct size, improved cardiac mitochondrial function and fragmentation, and decreased cardiac apoptosis, leading to preserved LV function during I/R injury. Mdivi-1 administered during ischemia and upon the onset of reperfusion also improved cardiac mitochondrial function and LV function, but at a lower efficacy than when it was given prior to ischemia. Taken together, mitochondrial fission inhibition after myocardial ischemic insults still exerts cardioprotection by attenuating mitochondrial dysfunction and dynamic imbalance, leading to decreased infarct size and ultimately improved LV function after acute cardiac I/R injury in rats. These findings indicate its potential clinical usefulness.
Resilient adaptive optimal control of distributed multi‐agent systems using reinforcement learning
Authors: Moghadam Rohollah , Modares Hamidreza
Published: July 2018

This study presents a unified resilient model‐free reinforcement learning (RL) based distributed control protocol for leader‐follower multi‐agent systems. Although RL has been successfully used to learn optimal control protocols for multi‐agent systems, the effects of adversarial inputs are ignored. It is shown in this study, however, that their adverse effects can propagate across the network and impact the learning outcome of other intact agents. To alleviate this problem, a unified RL‐based distributed control frameworks is developed for both homogeneous and heterogeneous multi‐agent systems to prevent corrupted sensory data from propagating across the network. To this end, only the leader communicates its actual sensory information and other agents estimate the leader' state using a distributed observer and communicate this estimation to their neighbours to achieve consensus on the leader state. The observer cannot be physically affected by any adversarial input. To further improve resiliency, distributed control protocols are designed to attenuate the effect of the adversarial inputs on the compromised agent itself. An off‐policy RL algorithm is developed to learn the solutions of the game algebraic Riccati equations arising from solving the control problem. No knowledge of the agent's dynamics is required and it is shown that the proposed RL‐based control protocol is resilient against adversarial inputs.
Monetization of IoT data using smart contracts
Authors: Suliman Ahmed , Husain Zainab , Abououf Menatallah , Alblooshi Mansoor , Salah Khaled
Published: July 2018

In the era of the Internet of Things (IoT), smart connected devices have the ability to generate data that could be of interest to the public. This paves the way for an emerging market for monetized data exchanges, where IoT device owners can sell access to live data generated by their connected devices to interested users. Implementing a trusted, cost‐efficient, automatic monetization solution of IoT data can be a challenging problem and usually involves intermediaries and centralised governance and management. Blockchain and smart contracts introduce a secure and trusted platform to carry out transactions in a highly trusted, secure, decentralised manner. In this study, they present a blockchain‐solution and implementation using Ethereum smart contracts for monetizing IoT data with automated payment involving no intermediary. The authors discuss key aspects related to architectural design, entity relations, interactions among participants, logic flow, implementation and testing of the overall system functionality.
Selective finite‐states model predictive control of grid interfaced three‐level neutral point clamped photovoltaic inverter for inherent capacitor voltage balancing
Authors: Bonala Anil Kumar , Sandepudi Srinivasa Rao , Muddineni Vishnu Prasad
Published: July 2018

A selective finite states model predictive control is proposed for a grid interfaced three‐level neutral point clamped solar photovoltaic inverter. The proposed control approach eliminates the weighting factor selection for dc‐link capacitor voltage balancing and reduces the computational burden for real‐time implementation. The switching states required for the prediction and objective function optimisation are selected based on the position of reference voltage vector in the space vector plane, inverter current directions and the charge status of the dc‐link capacitors. As a result, the selection of optimal switching state is fast, easy to implement and eliminates the selection of weighting factor for capacitor voltage balancing. The feasibility of the proposed control approach is verified through simulation and laboratory‐scale experimentation. The results confirm that the proposed method attains the inherent dc‐link capacitor voltage balance and also retains the dynamic and steady‐state current tracking in comparison with the classical finite control‐set model predictive control.
Bidirectional DC–DC converter with series‐connected resonant tanks to realise soft switching
Authors: Zhang Chao , Gao Zhigang , Liao Xiaozhong
Published: July 2018

This study presents a new topology of a direct current (DC)–DC converter with series‐connected LLC resonant tanks to realise zero voltage switching and quasi‐zero current switching. Two LLC resonant tanks are connected in series on the low‐voltage side and complementarily implemented to balance the current in the transformers. Moreover, the transformers are connected in series to share the load voltage, thus, the size of each transformer can be reduced. A fully controlled H‐bridge on the high‐voltage side achieves bidirectional power transmission. The voltage stress on each power switch of the active H‐bridge is equal to the output voltage, rather than twice the conventional centre tapped topology. Besides, a high‐transformer ratio guarantees high‐DC voltage gain, which allows power supply under high‐voltage conditions. Furthermore, based on phase‐shift control, the output voltage can be regulated smoothly and continuously, and surplus power on the output side is transferred back to the power source automatically. The proposed converter can be applied as power supply cells in vehicles or motor‐controlled systems. Simulation with a 3000‐W prototype and laboratory experiments with a 90‐W prototype are carried out to verify the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed converter.
High step‐up DC–DC converter using one switch and lower losses for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Maalandish Mohammad , Hosseini Seyed Hossein , Jalilzadeh Tohid , Vosoughi Naser
Published: July 2018

In this study, a new non‐isolated high step‐up dc–dc converter using one switch and low‐voltage stress on semiconductors is presented for photovoltaic applications. The proposed converter consists of one switch in the input side (S), voltage multiplier units (D–C–L), one diode in the output side (Do) and one capacitor (Co). To achieve high‐voltage gain and power level, the proposed converter can be extended to n stages of voltage multiplier units. Hence, the output voltage level will be reasonably increased and the nominal value of power devices will be decreased. Therefore, the voltage stress across the power switch is decreasing for different duty cycles at high power levels. As a result, the efficiency of the proposed converter can be increased by using one switch with lower resistance rDS(on). To verify the carried mathematical analysis of the proposed converter and circuit implementation are validated through both the simulation and experimental results that accordance each other well. The experimental results of two prototypes (with n = 2, 3) in about 290 W operating at 33 kHz are provided.
Molecular line emission in NGC 4945, imaged with ALMA
Authors: Henkel C. , Mühle S. , Bendo G. , Józsa G. I. G. , Gong Y. , Viti S. , Aalto S. , Combes F. , García-Burillo S. , Hunt L. K. , Mangum J. , Martín S. , Muller S. , Ott J. , van der Werf P. , Malawi A. A. , Ismail H. , Alkhuja E. , Asiri H. M. , Aladro R. , Alves F. , Ao Y. , Baan W. A. , Costagliola F. , Fuller G. , Greene J. , Impellizzeri C. M. V. , Kamali F. , Klessen R. S. , Mauersberger R. , Tang X. D. , Tristram K. , Wang M. , Zhang J. S.
Published: July 2018

NGC 4945 is one of the nearest (D ≈ 3.8 Mpc; 1″ ≈ 19 pc) starburst galaxies. To investigate the structure, dynamics, and composition of the dense nuclear gas of this galaxy, ALMA band 3 (λ ≈ 3−4 mm) observations were carried out with ≈2″ resolution. Three HCN and two HCO+ isotopologues, CS, C3H2, SiO, HCO, and CH3C2H were measured. Spectral line imaging demonstrates the presence of a rotating nuclear disk of projected size 10″ × 2″ reaching out to a galactocentric radius of r ≈ 100 pc with position angle PA = 45° ± 2°, inclination i = 75° ± 2° and an unresolved bright central core of size ≲2″. The continuum source, representing mostly free-free radiation from star forming regions, is more compact than the nuclear disk by a linear factor of two but shows the same position angle and is centered 0.′′39 ± 0.′′14 northeast of the nuclear accretion disk defined by H2O maser emission. Near the systemic velocity but outside the nuclear disk, both HCN J = 1 → 0 and CS J = 2 → 1 delineate molecular arms of length ≳15″ (≳285 pc) on opposite sides of the dynamical center. These are connected by a (deprojected) ≈ 0.6 kpc sized molecular bridge, likely a dense gaseous bar seen almost ends-on, shifting gas from the front and back side into the nuclear disk. Modeling this nuclear disk located farther inside (r ≲100 pc) with tilted rings provides a good fit by inferring a coplanar outflow reaching a characteristic deprojected velocity of ≈50 km s−1. All our molecular lines, with the notable exception of CH3 C2H, show significant absorption near the systemic velocity (≈571 km s−1), within the range ≈500–660 km s−1. Apparently, only molecular transitions with low critical H2 density (ncrit ≲ 104 cm−3) do not show absorption. The velocity field of the nuclear disk, derived from CH3 C2H, provides evidence for rigid rotation in the inner few arcseconds and a dynamical mass of Mtot = (2.1 ± 0.2) × 108 M⊙ inside a galactocentric radius of 2.′′45 (≈45 pc), with a significantly flattened rotation curve farther out. Velocity integrated line intensity maps with most pronounced absorption show molecular peak positions up to ≈1.′′5 (≈30 pc) southwest of the continuum peak, presumably due to absorption, which appears to be most severe slightly northeast of the nuclear maser disk. A nitrogen isotope ratio of 14N/15N ≈ 200–450 is estimated. This range of values is much higher then previously reported on a tentative basis. Therefore, because 15N is less abundant than expected, the question for strong 15N enrichment by massive star ejecta in starbursts still remains to be settled.
Stellar populations of the central region of M 31
Authors: Saglia R. P. , Opitsch M. , Fabricius M. H. , Bender R. , Blaña M. , Gerhard O.
Published: July 2018

Aims.We continue the analysis of the data set of our spectroscopic observation campaign of M 31, whose ultimate goal is to provide an understanding of the three-dimensional structure of the bulge, its formation history, and composition in terms of a classical bulge, boxy-peanut bulge, and bar contributions.

Methods.We derive simple stellar population (SSP) properties, such as age metallicity andα-element overabundance, from the measurement of Lick/IDS absorption line indices. We describe their two-dimensional maps taking into account the dust distribution in M 31.

Results.We found 80% of the values of our age measurements are larger than 10 Gyr. The central 100 arcsec of M 31 are dominated by the stars of the classical bulge of M 31. These stars are old (11−13 Gyr), metal-rich (as high as [Z/H] ≈ 0.35 dex) at the center with a negative gradient outward and enhanced inα-elements ([α/Fe]≈ 0.28±0.01 dex). The bar stands out in the metallicity map, where an almost solar value of [Z/H] (≈0.02 ± 0.01 dex) with no gradient is observed along the bar position angle (55.7 deg) out to 600 arcsec from the center. In contrast, no signature of the bar is seen in the age and [α/Fe] maps, which are approximately axisymmetric, delivering a mean age and overabundance for the bar and boxy-peanut bulge of 10–13 Gyr and 0.25–0.27 dex, respectively. The boxy-peanut bulge has almost solar metallicity (−0.04 ± 0.01 dex). The mass-to-light ratio of the three components is approximately constant atM/LV≈ 4.4−4.7M⊙/L⊙. The disk component at larger distances is made of a mixture of stars, as young as 3–4 Gyr, with solar metallicity and smallerM/LV(≈3 ± 0.1M⊙/L⊙).

Conclusions. We propose a two-phase formation scenario for the inner region of M 31, where most of the stars of the classical bulge come into place together with a proto-disk, where a bar develops and quickly transforms it into a boxy-peanut bulge. Star formation continues in the bulge region, producing stars younger than 10 Gyr, in particular along the bar, thereby enhancing its metallicity. The disk component appears to build up on longer timescales.
Fused CLEAN deconvolution for compact and diffuse emission
Authors: Zhang L.
Published: July 2018

Context. CLEAN algorithms are excellent deconvolution solvers that remove the sidelobes of the dirty beam to clean the dirty image. From the point of view of the scale, there are two types: scale-insensitive CLEAN algorithms, and scale-sensitive CLEAN algorithms. Scale-insensitive CLEAN algorithms perform excellently well for compact emission and perform poorly for diffuse emission, while scale-sensitive CLEAN algorithms are good for both point-like emission and diffuse emission but are often computationally expensive. However, observed images often contain both compact and diffuse emission. An algorithm that can simultaneously process compact and diffuse emission well is therefore required.

Aims. We propose a new deconvolution algorithm by combining a scale-insensitive CLEAN algorithm and a scale-sensitive CLEAN algorithm. The new algorithm combines the advantages of scale-insensitive algorithms for compact emission and scale-sensitive algorithms for diffuse emission. At the same time, it avoids the poor performance of scale-insensitive algorithms for diffuse emission and the great computational load of scale-sensitive algorithms for compact emission in residuals.

Methods. We propose a fuse mechanism to combine two algorithms: the Asp-Clean2016 algorithm, which solves the computationally expensive problem of convolution operation in the fitting procedure, and the classical Högbom CLEAN (Hg-Clean) algorithm, which is faster and works equally well for compact emission. It is called fused CLEAN (fused-Clean) in this paper.

Results. We apply the fused-Clean algorithm to simulated EVLA data and compare it to widely used algorithms: the Hg-Clean algorithm, the multi-scale CLEAN (Ms-Clean), and the Asp-Clean2016 algorithm. The results show that it performs better and is computationally effective.
Analysis of problems during implementation of Lean Manufacturing elements
Authors: Ingaldi Manuela , Dziuba Szymon T. , Cierniak-Emerych Anna
Published: July 2018

Changes are inherent in activity of any enterprise. Several methods or concepts can be employed to introduce changes. One of the concept which has become popular recently and improves enterprise’s functioning is Lean Manufacturing. There are multiple techniques and tools which function within this method. Unfortunately, in the case of any changes, also in the case of implementation of Lean Manufacturing components, one can meet the resistance of employers and a number of technical and organizational problems. The aim of the paper is to collect and analyse information concerning the problems that occur during implementation of the Lean Manufacturing in Polish enterprises. The data were collected by means of a direct questionnaire survey. The results can be a suggestion for the enterprises which are planning to implement the Lean Manufacturing and indicate the problems they should be prepared for in the process.
Interpretive Structural Modeling of identified Barriers to Lean Implementation in SMEs
Authors: Shrimali Arvind Kumar , Soni Vimlesh Kumar , Pawar Shashank Singh
Published: July 2018

Lean practices are implemented in manufacturing companies and services to find hidden waste and attain continuous improvement. Various enterprises have experienced difficulties in the Lean implementation. Following the use of appropriate lean instruments and techniques, there are many other factors that affect success lean implementation process. Researchers have identified a huge number of barriers to implementation of Lean. Understanding the barriers and the interactions between them can be crucial to the success of lean implementation. Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) is one of the established methodologies to bring forward the interrelationships among parameters of an issue or a problem. Purpose- The purpose of this paper is to create the hierarchy of the various barriers to Lean Implementation according to their importance using the approach of ISM to facilitate Small and Medium enterprises (SMEs) across India. The study is specific to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from India.
Accreditation of research in the thermo-climatic chamber - various aspects
Authors: Gawlik Artur , Kucybała Piotr , Owczarek Danuta , Pobędza Janusz
Published: July 2018

One of the important aspects in the implementation of new products for production in the open field is the assessment of the impact of environmental conditions on their operation. Typically thermo-climatic research is carried out for such project. The laboratory of Techno-climatic Research and Heavy Duty Machines of Cracow University of Technology, equipped with a large-sized thermo-climatic chamber conducts this type of research. Bearing in mind the assurance of high quality of the conducted research, the quality management system (QMS) was developed and implemented. The article describes the requirements, scope and process of obtaining a Polish Centre for Accreditation (PCA) certificate.
Problems in waste management in the aspect of the secondary use of plastics from WEEE
Authors: Kapustka Katarzyna , Ziegmann Gerhard , Klimecka-Tatar Dorota
Published: July 2018

Waste of electrical and electronic equipment is one the fastest
growing waste streams in the EU, with some 9 million tonnes generated in 2005 and expected to grow to more than 12 million tonnes by 2020. Electrical and electronic products contain substances, which are valuable as well as often also critical. The main aim of the paper is presentation the methodological approach to identification of bromine or chlorine presence in components (in WEEE). This followed by assessment of strengths and weaknesses of the most popular methods. The main analysis for identification of bromine and chlorine in plastics have been presented.
Level of compliance with the requirements of corporate social responsibility in Czech enterprises
Authors: Hofbruckerová Zdenka , Halfarová Petra , Uherková Andrea
Published: July 2018

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) concept is focused on understanding and managing the impacts a company has on the world around it, and doing so as a part of core business activities. CSR contains three parts: Profit (economical part), People (social aspects - employees and stakeholders) and Planet (environment). The papers deal with basic features, objectives and outputs of CSR concept in practical life of Czech enterprises. The main aim of the research was to define if organizations referring themselves as socially responsible do implement activities of all the three pillars equally and integrate them into their day-to-day activities.
The influence of simultaneous action of the aggressive environment and loading on strength of RC beams
Authors: Selejdak Jacek , Khmil Roman , Blikharskyy Zinoviy
Published: July 2018

The article is devoted to an experimental research of the strength of reinforced concrete beams, and its dependence on a simultaneous influence of a corrosion environment and a loading factor. The tests have been carried out upon reinforced concrete specimens of 2100×200×100 mm size, with a regular reinforcement. The beams are of a span equaling to 1,9m with different reinforcing ratio of beams. The acid environment, namely 10 % H2SO4, was taken as a model of an aggressive environment. Reinforced concrete beams have been tested with and without the co-action of the aggressive environment and loading factor. Beams, which underwent a simultaneous action of the corrosive environment and loading, were loaded to a level 0.7 of its load-carrying capacity. The load-carrying capacity in aggressive environment in all the beams of all the series was achieved in 46-60 days. The influence of the simultaneous action of the aggressive environment and loading on the strength of reinforced-concrete beams has been described in the following work. It is necessary to note that the design code of Ukraine does not allow determining load carrying capacity of the beams affected by corrosion with simultaneous influence of loading with adequate accuracy. The analysis of experimental data has been done and the main directions of the design code’s correction have been formulated.
Quasi-optimization of the slender geometrically nonlinear supporting system with non-prismatic element under the specific load
Authors: Szmidla Janusz , Jurczyńska Anna
Published: July 2018

This paper is devoted to the issue of free vibrations of a geometrically nonlinear column with a nonprismatic element modelling the supporting structure subjected to the specific load. The boundary problem was formulated on the basis of the Hamilton’s principle and its solution was obtained using the Lindstedt - Poincare’s small parameter method (a perturbation method). Within the range of the kinetic criterion of the static equilibrium, an influence of the shape of a rod of variable crosssection on the values of free vibrations and the bifurcation load of the system was determined. Presented quasi-optimization issue has been reduced to defining the ranges of physical and geometrical parameters where an increase of the bifurcation load is the biggest in comparison with the reference system.
Arrangement of the foundations under the new hotel in Lviv
Authors: Kramarchuk Andrii , Ilnytskyy Borys , Lytvyniak Oksana
Published: July 2018

The paper discusses a renovation technique of a historic housing system used in Lviv. The technique presented involves an arrangement of foundations including conservation, as well as displaying exposed fragments of ancient buildings. The foundations of a hotel complex are accomplished owing to drilled injection piers. There are also full-scale tests of drilled injection piers on axial static pressed load which are carried out on the construction site.