bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency-phase analysis of resting-state functional MRI
Authors: Goelman Gadi , Dan Rotem , Růžička Filip , Bezdicek Ondrej , Růžička Evžen , Roth Jan , Vymazal Josef , Jech Robert
Published: March 2017

We describe an analysis method that characterizes the correlation between coupled time-series functions by their frequencies and phases. It provides a unified framework for simultaneous assessment of frequency and latency of a coupled time-series. The analysis is demonstrated on resting-state functional MRI data of 34 healthy subjects. Interactions between fMRI time-series are represented by cross-correlation (with time-lag) functions. A general linear model is used on the cross-correlation functions to obtain the frequencies and phase-differences of the original time-series. We define symmetric, antisymmetric and asymmetric cross-correlation functions that correspond respectively to in-phase, 90° out-of-phase and any phase difference between a pair of time-series, where the last two were never introduced before. Seed maps of the motor system were calculated to demonstrate the strength and capabilities of the analysis. Unique types of functional connections, their dominant frequencies and phase-differences have been identified. The relation between phase-differences and time-delays is shown. The phase-differences are speculated to inform transfer-time and/or to reflect a difference in the hemodynamic response between regions that are modulated by neurotransmitters concentration. The analysis can be used with any coupled functions in many disciplines including electrophysiology, EEG or MEG in neuroscience.
Novel methicillin resistance gene mecD in clinical Macrococcus caseolyticus strains from bovine and canine sources
Authors: Schwendener Sybille , Cotting Kerstin , Perreten Vincent
Published: March 2017

Methicillin-resistant Macrococcus caseolyticus strains from bovine and canine origins were found to carry a novel mecD gene conferring resistance to all classes of β-lactams including anti-MRSA cephalosporins. Association of β-lactam resistance with mecD was demonstrated by gene expression in S. aureus and deletion of the mecD-containing island in M. caseolyticus. The mecD gene was located either on an 18,134-bp M. caseolyticus resistance island (McRImecD-1) or a 16,188-bp McRImecD-2. Both islands were integrated at the 3′ end of the rpsI gene, carried the mecD operon (mecD-mecR1m-mecIm), and genes for an integrase of the tyrosine recombinase family and a putative virulence-associated protein (virE). Apart from the mecD operon, that shared 66% overall nucleotide identity with the mecB operon, McRImecD islands were unrelated to any mecB-carrying elements or staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec. Only McRImecD-1 that is delimitated at both ends by direct repeats was capable of circular excision. The recombined excision pattern suggests site-specific activity of the integrase and allowed identification of a putative core attachment site. Detection of rpsI-associated integrases in Bacillus and S. aureus reveals a potential for broad-host range dissemination of the novel methicillin resistance gene mecD.
Structure-Activity Relationship in TLR4 Mutations: Atomistic Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Residue Interaction Network Analysis
Authors: Anwar Muhammad Ayaz , Choi Sangdun
Published: March 2017

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a vital innate immune receptor present on cell surfaces, initiates a signaling cascade during danger and bacterial intrusion. TLR4 needs to form a stable hexamer complex, which is necessary to dimerize the cytoplasmic domain. However, D299G and T399I polymorphism may abrogate the stability of the complex, leading to compromised TLR4 signaling. Crystallography provides valuable insights into the structural aspects of the TLR4 ectodomain; however, the dynamic behavior of polymorphic TLR4 is still unclear. Here, we employed molecular dynamics simulations (MDS), as well as principal component and residue network analyses, to decipher the structural aspects and signaling propagation associated with mutations in TLR4. The mutated complexes were less cohesive, displayed local and global variation in the secondary structure, and anomalous decay in rotational correlation function. Principal component analysis indicated that the mutated complexes also exhibited distinct low-frequency motions, which may be correlated to the differential behaviors of these TLR4 variants. Moreover, residue interaction networks (RIN) revealed that the mutated TLR4/myeloid differentiation factor (MD) 2 complex may perpetuate abnormal signaling pathways. Cumulatively, the MDS and RIN analyses elucidated the mutant-specific conformational alterations, which may help in deciphering the mechanism of loss-of-function mutations.
A new urease-inhibiting formulation decreases ammonia volatilization and improves maize nitrogen utilization in North China Plain
Authors: Li Qianqian , Cui Xiaoqing , Liu Xuejun , Roelcke Marco , Pasda Gregor , Zerulla Wolfram , Wissemeier Alexander H. , Chen Xinping , Goulding Keith , Zhang Fusuo
Published: March 2017

Overuse of urea, low nitrogen (N) utilization, and large N losses are common in maize production in North China Plain (NCP). To solve these problems, we conducted two field experiments at Shangzhuang and Quzhou in NCP to test the ability of a newly developed urease inhibitor product Limus® to decrease NH3 volatilization from urea applied to maize. Grain yield, apparent N recovery efficiency (REN) and N balance when using urea applied with or without Limus were also measured over two maize growing seasons. Cumulative NH3 loss in the two weeks following urea application without Limus ranged from 9–108 kg N ha−1, while Limus addition significantly decreased NH3 loss by a mean of 84%. Urea with Limus did not significantly increase maize yields (P < 0.05) compared with urea alone. However, a significant 11–17% improvement in REN with Limus was observed at QZ. The use of urea-N plus Limus would permit a reduction in N applications of 55–60% compared to farmers’ practice and/or further 20% N saving compared with optimized urea-N rate (150 kg N ha−1, based on N requirement by target yield of 7.5 t ha−1), and would achieve the same maize yields but with significantly decreased NH3 loss and increased N utilization.
The δ30Si peak value discovered in middle Proterozoic chert and its implication for environmental variations in the ancient ocean
Authors: Ding T. P. , Gao J. F. , Tian S. H. , Fan C. F. , Zhao Y. , Wan D. F. , Zhou J. X.
Published: March 2017

The silicon isotope composition of chert has recently been used to study the historic evolution of the global ocean. It has been suggested that Precambrian cherts have much higher δ30Si values than Phanerozoic cherts do and that the former show an increasing trend from 3.5 to 0.85 Ga, reflecting a decrease in ocean temperatures. However, cherts have various origins, and their isotopic compositions might be reset by metamorphic fluid circulation; thus, different types of cherts should be distinguished. Here, we present a new set of δ30Si data for cherts from early and middle Proterozoic carbonate rocks from Northern China. We found that cherts of 1.355–1.325 Ga show a peak range of 2.2–3.9‰. Based on these results, we propose that from the Archean to the middle Proterozoic, there was a drastic decrease in silicon content and an increase in the δ30Si value in ocean water due to a temperature decrease and biological activity increase. After that period, the silicon content of the ocean was limited to a low level by a high degree of biological absorption, and their δ30Si values varied in a small range around a significantly lower value.
Restricted Use of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agent is Safe and Associated with Deferred Dialysis Initiation in Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Pan Szu-Yu , Chiang Wen-Chih , Chen Ping-Min , Liu Heng-Hsiu , Chou Yu-Hsiang , Lai Tai-Shuan , Lai Chun-Fu , Chiu Yen-Ling , Lin Wan-Yu , Chen Yung-Ming , Chu Tzong-Shinn , Lin Shuei-Liong
Published: March 2017

The effect of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) on dialysis initiation in advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients is not clear. We retrospectively analyzed the outcome of dialysis initiation in a stage 5 CKD cohort with ESA reimbursement limited to the maximal standardized monthly ESA dose equivalent to epoetin beta 20,000 U by the National Health Insurance program. Totally 423 patients were followed up for a median of 1.37 year. A time-dependent Cox regression model, adjusted for monthly levels of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and hemoglobin, was constructed to investigate the association between ESA and outcome. The standardized monthly ESA dose in ESA users was 16,000 ± 3,900 U of epoetin beta. Annual changes of hemoglobin were −0.29 ± 2.19 and −0.99 ± 2.46 g/dL in ESA users and ESA non-users, respectively (P = 0.038). However, annual eGFR decline rates were not different between ESA users and non-users. After adjustment, ESA use was associated with deferred dialysis initiation (hazard ratio 0.63, 95% confidence interval 0.42–0.93, P = 0.021). The protective effect remained when the monthly ESA doses were incorporated. Our data showed that restricted use of ESA was safe and associated with deferred dialysis initiation in stage 5 CKD patients.
Melanosomal formation of PMEL core amyloid is driven by aromatic residues
Authors: Hee Jia Shee , Mitchell Susan M. , Liu Xinran , Leonhardt Ralf M.
Published: March 2017

PMEL is a pigment cell protein that forms physiological amyloid in melanosomes. Many amyloids and/or their oligomeric precursors are toxic, causing or contributing to severe, incurable diseases including Alzheimer’s and prion diseases. Striking similarities in intracellular formation pathways between PMEL and various pathological amyloids including Aβ and PrPSc suggest PMEL is an excellent model system to study endocytic amyloid. Learning how PMEL fibrils assemble without apparent toxicity may help developing novel therapies for amyloid diseases. Here we identify the critical PMEL domain that forms the melanosomal amyloid core (CAF). An unbiased alanine-scanning screen covering the entire region combined with quantitative electron microscopy analysis of the full set of mutants uncovers numerous essential residues. Many of these rely on aromaticity for function suggesting a role for π-stacking in melanosomal amyloid assembly. Various mutants are defective in amyloid nucleation. This extensive data set informs the first structural model of the CAF and provides insights into how the melanosomal amyloid core forms.
Homogeneous spectral spanning of terahertz semiconductor lasers with radio frequency modulation
Authors: Wan W. J. , Li H. , Zhou T. , Cao J. C.
Published: March 2017

Homogeneous broadband and electrically pumped semiconductor radiation sources emitting in the terahertz regime are highly desirable for various applications, including spectroscopy, chemical sensing, and gas identification. In the frequency range between 1 and 5 THz, unipolar quantum cascade lasers employing electron inter-subband transitions in multiple-quantum-well structures are the most powerful semiconductor light sources. However, these devices are normally characterized by either a narrow emission spectrum due to the narrow gain bandwidth of the inter-subband optical transitions or an inhomogeneous broad terahertz spectrum from lasers with heterogeneous stacks of active regions. Here, we report the demonstration of homogeneous spectral spanning of long-cavity terahertz semiconductor quantum cascade lasers based on a bound-to-continuum and resonant phonon design under radio frequency modulation. At a single drive current, the terahertz spectrum under radio frequency modulation continuously spans 330 GHz (~8% of the central frequency), which is the record for single plasmon waveguide terahertz lasers with a bound-to-continuum design. The homogeneous broadband terahertz sources can be used for spectroscopic applications, i.e., GaAs etalon transmission measurement and ammonia gas identification.
The Making of the Andrea Wave and other Rogues
Authors: Donelan Mark A. , Magnusson Anne-Karin
Published: March 2017

Unexpectedly large ocean waves or ‘rogues’ are sometimes claimed to be the cause of damage to ships at sea and to offshore structures. While wind-driven wave models are capable of predicting the average characteristics of waves, the maximum height of rogues that may occur is yet unknown. Rogues form in the open ocean through the addition of elemental wave trains or groups and, infrequently, with many elements coming together in phase, producing rogues. Here we perform directional analyses on one of the steepest rogues ever recorded: the Andrea wave. We find that the Andrea wave was close to the breaking-limited height. Analysis of the 72 twenty minute records on the day of the Andrea wave yields encounter return periods of about 21 days for maximally steep waves, while less steep rogues occur about twice daily. An explicit formula is given for the encounter probability, based on the target area. This work answers the critical questions regarding rogues in the design and operation of ships and offshore structures: how high can rogues be and how frequently they occur.
Critical increase in Na-doping facilitates acceptor band movements that yields ~180 meV shallow hole conduction in ZnO bulk crystals
Authors: Parmar Narendra S. , Yim Haena , Choi Ji-Won
Published: March 2017

Stable p-type conduction in ZnO has been a long time obstacle in utilizing its full potential such as in opto-electronic devices. We designed a unique experimental set-up in the laboratory for high Na-doping by thermal diffusion in the bulk ZnO single crystals. SIMS measurement shows that Na concentration increases by 3 orders of magnitude, to ~3 × 1020 cm−3 as doping temperature increases to 1200 °C. Electronic infrared absorption was measured for Na-acceptors. Absorption bands were observed near (0.20–0.24) eV. Absorption bands blue shifted by 0.04 eV when doped at 1200 °C giving rise to shallow acceptor level. NaZn band movements as a function of doping temperature are also seen in Photoluminescence emission (PL), Photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and UV-Vis transmission measurements. Variable temperature Hall measurements show stable p-type conduction with hole binding energy ~0.18 eV in ZnO samples that were Na-doped at 1200 °C.
A tale of four kingdoms – isoxazolin-5-one- and 3-nitropropanoic acid-derived natural products
Authors: Becker Tobias , Pasteels Jacques , Weigel Christiane , Dahse Hans-Martin , Voigt Kerstin , Boland Wilhelm
Published: March 2017

The occurrence, structural diversity, (bio-)synthesis, properties and detoxification mechanisms of isoxazolinone- and 3-nitropropanoic acid-derived natural compounds are reviewed.
Cellular and cell-free studies of catalytic DNA cleavage by ruthenium polypyridyl complexes containing redox-active intercalating ligands
Authors: Griffith Cynthia , Dayoub Adam S. , Jaranatne Thamara , Alatrash Nagham , Mohamedi Ali , Abayan Kenneth , Breitbach Zachary S. , Armstrong Daniel W. , MacDonnell Frederick M.
Published: March 2017

Yellow foci show time dependent DNA double strand breaks in the nuclei of H358 cells treated with IC50 concentration of [(phen)2Ru(tatpp)Ru(Phen)2]Cl4.
Self-wrapping of an ouzo drop induced by evaporation on a superamphiphobic surface
Authors: Tan Huanshu , Diddens Christian , Versluis Michel , Butt Hans-Jürgen , Lohse Detlef , Zhang Xuehua
Published: March 2017

We provide an advanced understanding of the evaporation process of ouzo (multi-component) drops.
Selective gas adsorption and fluorescence sensing response of a Zn(ii) metal–organic framework constructed by a mixed-ligand strategy
Authors: Liu Xiao-Jing , Wang Xi , Xu Jia-Li , Tian Dan , Chen Rong-Ying , Xu Jian , Bu Xian-He
Published: March 2017

By means of a mixed-ligand strategy, a novel metal–organic framework was obtained, which remarkably exhibits bi-functional properties, i.e., selective gas adsorption of CO2 over CH4 and fluorescence sensing response for nitrobenzene.
NHC adducts of tantalum amidohalides: the first example of NHC abnormally coordinated to an early transition metal
Authors: Petrov Pavel A. , Sukhikh Taisiya S. , Sokolov Maxim N.
Published: March 2017

The first abnormally coordinated NHC complex of an early transition metal, [(aIMes)TaCl2(NMe2)3], is prepared.
Effect of fiber length and dispersion on properties of long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites based on poly(butylene terephthalate)
Authors: Zhang Daohai , He Min , Qin Shuhao , Yu Jie
Published: March 2017

Long glass fiber reinforced poly(butylene terephthalate) (LGF/PBT) composites with different original glass fiber lengths were prepared using a impregnation device designed by the authors.
Solvent evaporation induced self-assembly of graphene foam for thermally conductive polymers
Authors: Ma Jingbo , Zhou Xufeng , Ding Shiyun , Liu Zhaoping
Published: March 2017

Graphene foam prepared by evaporation induced self-assembly is effective to significantly improve the thermal conductivity of epoxy.
(Phosphanyl)phosphaketenes as building blocks for novel phosphorus heterocycles
Authors: Hansmann Max M. , Ruiz David A. , Liu Liu Leo , Jazzar Rodolphe , Bertrand Guy
Published: March 2017

Although BH3 simply coordinates the endocyclic P of (phospholidino)phosphaketene 1Dipp, the bulkier B(C6F5)3 gives rise to a zwitterionic diphosphirenium, which is a novel type of 2π-electron aromatic system as shown by the calculated NICS values.
Optimizing side chains for crystal growth from water: a case study of aromatic amide foldamers
Authors: Hu Xiaobo , Dawson Simon J. , Mandal Pradeep K. , de Hatten Xavier , Baptiste Benoit , Huc Ivan
Published: March 2017

A systematic approach to endow aromatic molecular architectures with both crystal growth ability from, and solubility in, water.
The sleeping beauty kissed awake: new methods in electron microscopy to study cellular membranes
Authors: Chlanda Petr , Krijnse Locker Jacomine
Published: March 2017

Electron microscopy (EM) for biological samples, developed in the 1940–1950s, changed our conception about the architecture of eukaryotic cells. It was followed by a period where EM applied to cell biology had seemingly fallen asleep, even though new methods with important implications for modern EM were developed. Among these was the discovery that samples can be preserved by chemical fixation and most importantly by rapid freezing without the formation of crystalline ice, giving birth to the world of cryo-EM. The past 15–20 years are hallmarked by a tremendous interest in EM, driven by important technological advances. Cryo-EM, in particular, is now capable of revealing structures of proteins at a near-atomic resolution owing to improved sample preparation methods, microscopes and cameras. In this review, we focus on the challenges associated with the imaging of membranes by EM and give examples from the field of host–pathogen interactions, in particular of virus-infected cells. Despite the advantages of imaging membranes under native conditions in cryo-EM, conventional EM will remain an important complementary method, in particular if large volumes need to be imaged.
A saga of cancer epigenetics: linking epigenetics to alternative splicing
Authors: Narayanan Sathiya Pandi , Singh Smriti , Shukla Sanjeev
Published: March 2017

The discovery of an increasing number of alternative splicing events in the human genome highlighted that ∼94% of genes generate alternatively spliced transcripts that may produce different protein isoforms with diverse functions. It is now well known that several diseases are a direct and indirect consequence of aberrant splicing events in humans. In addition to the conventional mode of alternative splicing regulation by ‘cis’ RNA-binding sites and ‘trans’ RNA-binding proteins, recent literature provides enormous evidence for epigenetic regulation of alternative splicing. The epigenetic modifications may regulate alternative splicing by either influencing the transcription elongation rate of RNA polymerase II or by recruiting a specific splicing regulator via different chromatin adaptors. The epigenetic alterations and aberrant alternative splicing are known to be associated with various diseases individually, but this review discusses/highlights the latest literature on the role of epigenetic alterations in the regulation of alternative splicing and thereby cancer progression. This review also points out the need for further studies to understand the interplay between epigenetic modifications and aberrant alternative splicing in cancer progression.
Male infertility-linked point mutation reveals a vital binding role for the C2 domain of sperm PLCζ
Authors: Nomikos Michail , Stamatiadis Panagiotis , Sanders Jessica R. , Beck Konrad , Calver Brian L. , Buntwal Luke , Lofty Morgan , Sideratou Zili , Swann Karl , Lai F. Anthony
Published: March 2017

Sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) is widely considered to be the physiological stimulus that evokes intracellular calcium (Ca2+) oscillations that are essential for the initiation of egg activation during mammalian fertilisation. A recent genetic study reported a male infertility case that was directly associated with a point mutation in the PLCζ C2 domain, where an isoleucine residue had been substituted with a phenylalanine (I489F). Here, we have analysed the effect of this mutation on the in vivo Ca2+ oscillation-inducing activity and the in vitro biochemical properties of human PLCζ. Microinjection of cRNA or recombinant protein corresponding to PLCζI489F mutant at physiological concentrations completely failed to cause Ca2+ oscillations and trigger development. However, this infertile phenotype could be effectively rescued by microinjection of relatively high (non-physiological) amounts of recombinant mutant PLCζI489F protein, leading to Ca2+ oscillations and egg activation. Our in vitro biochemical analysis suggested that the PLCζI489F mutant displayed similar enzymatic properties, but dramatically reduced binding to PI(3)P and PI(5)P-containing liposomes compared with wild-type PLCζ. Our findings highlight the importance of PLCζ at fertilisation and the vital role of the C2 domain in PLCζ function, possibly due to its novel binding characteristics.
Bacillus subtilis and surfactin inhibit the transmissible gastroenteritis virus from entering the intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Hu Weiwei , Zhu Liqi , Yang Qian
Published: March 2017

Intestinal epithelial cells are the targets for transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) virus (TGEV) infection. It is urgent to develop a novel candidate against TGEV entry. Bacillus subtilis is a probiotic with excellent anti-microorganism properties and one of its secretions, surfactin, has been regarded as a versatile weapon for most plant pathogens, especially for the enveloped virus. We demonstrate for the first time that B. subtilis OKB105 and its surfactin can effectively inhibit one animal coronavirus, TGEV, entering the intestinal porcine epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2). Then, several different experiments were performed to seek the might mechanisms. The plaque assays showed that surfactant could reduce the plaque generation of TGEV in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, after incubation with TGEV for 1.5 h, B. subtilis could attach TGEV particles to their surface so that the number of virus to bind to the host cells was declined. Furthermore, our data showed that the inhibition of B. subtilis was closely related to the competition with TGEV for the viral entry receptors, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and aminopeptidase N (APN) protein. In addition, Western blotting and apoptosis analysis indicated that B. subtilis could enhance the resistance of IPEC-J2 cells by up-regulating the expression of toll-like receptor (TLR)-6 and reducing the percentage of apoptotic cells. Taken together, our results suggest that B. subtilis OKB105 and its surfactin can antagonize TGEV entry in vitro and may serve as promising new candidates for TGEV prevention.
VLSI Architecture of Full‐Search Variable‐Block‐Size Motion Estimation for HEVC Video Encoding
Authors: Cheeckottu Vayalil Niras , Kong Yinan
Published: March 2017

Motion estimation (ME) is the most computationally intensive task in video encoding. This study proposes a full‐search variable‐block‐size ME for the high‐efficiency video coding or H.265 specification. The proposed method reduces memory requirements to a large extent by following a Morton order for data reading and a sum of absolute differences reuse strategy. The data bandwidth demand is also diminished by broadcasting data into multiple processing elements. This ME accelerator supports variable‐block‐size prediction blocks ranging from to , and is reconfigurable in various search ranges for a trade‐off between performance and area. The proposed method for very‐large‐scale integration (VLSI) architecture is synthesized with 32 nm technology, and is capable of real‐time encoding of ultra‐high‐definition (4K‐UHD, at 30 Hz) video with a search range of 64 pixels in both horizontal and vertical directions, operating at a frequency of 282 MHz.
Simulation study of FACTS devices based on AC–AC modular multilevel hexagonal chopper
Authors: Li Peng , Adam Grain Philip , Holliday Derrick , Finney Stephen Jon , Williams Barry Wayne
Published: March 2017

This study proposes a new range of flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) device based on direct AC–AC conversion, where the modular multilevel AC hexagonal chopper (M2AHC) is employed. The M2AHC is operated in quasi‐two‐level mode; and the heterodyne modulation is used to decouple voltage amplitude regulation from the phase‐shift; thus, independent control of active and reactive powers is achieved. Then, a family of FACTS devices based on M2AHC that offers voltage, active power and reactive power flow control as both shunt and series compensators is analysed. The use of AC cell capacitors instead of DC capacitors in M2AHC makes its footprint much smaller and lighter than conventional AC–DC or DC–AC voltage source converter‐based FACTS devices; hence, high reliability and extended service‐life could be expected. The system modelling and controller design of the proposed FACTS devices are illustrated in a unified reference frame, considering different control modes, transient and unbalanced conditions. Simulation results are used to verify the feasibility of the proposed M2AHC‐based FACTS device. These FACTS devices will be preferred over conventional counterpart for confined spaced applications such as the grid access of large‐scale offshore wind farms and resolution of loop flow in megacities.
Asymmetries on red giant branch surfaces from CHARA/MIRC optical interferometry
Authors: Chiavassa A. , Norris R. , Montargès M. , Ligi R. , Fossati L. , Bigot L. , Baron F. , Kervella P. , Monnier J. D. , Mourard D. , Nardetto N. , Perrin G. , Schaefer G. H. , ten Brummelaar T. A. , Magic Z. , Collet R. , Asplund M.
Published: March 2017

Context. Red giant branch (RGB) stars are very bright objects in galaxies and are often used as standard candles. Interferometry is the ideal tool to characterize the dynamics and morphology of their atmospheres.

Aims. We aim at precisely characterising the surface dynamics of a sample of RGB stars.

Methods. We obtained interferometric observations for three RGB stars with the MIRC instrument mounted at the CHARA interferometer. We looked for asymmetries on the stellar surfaces using limb-darkening models.

Results. We measured the apparent diameters of HD 197989 (ϵ Cyg) = 4.61 ± 0.02 mas, HD 189276 (HR 7633) = 2.95 ± 0.01 mas, and HD 161096 (β Oph) = 4.43 ± 0.01 mas. We detected departures from the centrosymmetric case for all three stars with the tendency of a greater effect for lower logg of the sample. We explored the causes of this signal and conclude that a possible explanation to the interferometric signal is the convection-related and/or the magnetic-related surface activity. However, it is necessary to monitor these stars with new observations, possibly coupled with spectroscopy, in order to firmly establish the cause.
Minimax regression estimation for Poisson coprocess
Authors: Cadre Benoît , Klutchnikoff Nicolas , Massiot Gaspar
Published: March 2017

For a Poisson point process X, Itô’s famous chaos expansion implies that every square integrable regression function r with covariate X can be decomposed as a sum of multiple stochastic integrals called chaos. In this paper, we consider the case where r can be decomposed as a sum of δ chaos. In the spirit of Cadre and Truquet [ESAIM: PS 19 (2015) 251–267], we introduce a semiparametric estimate of r based on i.i.d. copies of the data. We investigate the asymptotic minimax properties of our estimator when δ is known. We also propose an adaptive procedure when δ is unknown.
Iron-Catalyzed Carbenoid Insertion into C(sp3)–H Bonds
Authors: Zhu Shou-Fei , Cheng Qing-Qing , Yang Ji-Min , Xu Huan
Published: March 2017

An iron-catalyzed carbenoid insertion into C–H bonds of alkanes was developed with high activity (turnover numbers up to 690 in a gram-scale experiment) and chemoselectivity. This non-heme iron-catalyzed C(sp3)–H insertion reaction provides an efficient strategy for C–H functionalization.
Filamentary probe on the COMPASS tokamak
Authors: Kovarik K. , Duran I. , Stockel J. , Seidl J. , Adamek J. , Spolaore M. , Vianello N. , Hacek P. , Hron M. , Panek R.
Published: March 2017

This paper describes a new filamentary probe recently introduced on the COMPASS tokamak. It allows the measurement of electrostatic and magnetic properties of the filaments and their changes in dependence on distance from the separatrix in the region between a divertor and midplane. The probe head is mounted on a manipulator moving the probe radially on a shot-to-shot basis. This configuration is suitable for the long term statistical measurement of the plasma filaments and the measurement of their evolution during their propagation from the separatrix to the wall. The basics of the filamentary probe construction, the evolution of the plasma parameters, and first conditional averages of the plasma filaments in the scrape-off layer of the COMPASS tokamak during the L-mode regime are presented.
Photon counting with photon number resolution through superconducting nanowires coupled to a multi-channel TDC in FPGA
Authors: Lusardi N. , Los J. W. N. , Gourgues R. B. M. , Bulgarini G. , Geraci A.
Published: March 2017

The paper presents a system for measuring photon statistics and photon timing in the few-photon regime down to the single-photon level. The measurement system is based on superconducting nanowire single photon detectors and a time-to-digital converter implemented into a programmable device. The combination of these devices gives high performance to the system in terms of resolution and adaptability to the actual experimental conditions. As a case of application, we present the measurement of photon statistics for coherent light states. In this measurement, we make use of 8th order single photon correlations to reconstruct with high fidelity the statistics of a coherent state with average photon number up to 4. The processing is performed by means of a tapped-delay-line time-to-digital converter architecture that also hosts an asynchronous-correlated-digital-counter implemented in a field programmable gate array device and specifically designed for performance optimization in multi-channel usage.
Developing a static solar concentrator module with free-form mirror design for indoor illumination
Authors: Allen Whang Jong-Woei , Lin Chia-Min , Chou Chun-Han , Hsieh Jin-Jie , Chang Cheng-Ming
Published: March 2017

The use of a solar concentrator for indoor illumination has been investigated in this study. Two solar concentrator modules, with one using plane mirrors and the other employing a free-form mirror design, were designed, developed, and tested. A modular structure was proposed for ease of installation. In both modules, mirrors are used to reflect the collected sunlight to its destination. Simulation results show that the free-form mirror design has better day-lighting system performance than the plane mirror version at three targeted times of the day. The resulting reflection efficiency of the solar concentrator module which uses the free-form mirror design was 40.64%, 39.18%, and 52.38% at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 13:00 PM, respectively.
Composite targets in HiPIMS plasmas: Correlation of in-vacuum XPS characterization and optical plasma diagnostics
Authors: Layes Vincent , Monje Sascha , Corbella Carles , Schulz-von der Gathen Volker , von Keudell Achim , de los Arcos Teresa
Published: March 2017

In-vacuum characterization of magnetron targets after High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HiPIMS) has been performed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Al-Cr composite targets (circular, 50 mm diameter) mounted in two different geometries were investigated: an Al target with a small Cr disk embedded at the racetrack position and a Cr target with a small Al disk embedded at the racetrack position. The HiPIMS discharge and the target surface composition were characterized in parallel for low, intermediate, and high power conditions, thus covering both the Ar-dominated and the metal-dominated HiPIMS regimes. The HiPIMS plasma was investigated using optical emission spectroscopy and fast imaging using a CCD camera; the spatially resolved XPS surface characterization was performed after in-vacuum transfer of the magnetron target to the XPS chamber. This parallel evaluation showed that (i) target redeposition of sputtered species was markedly more effective for Cr atoms than for Al atoms; (ii) oxidation at the target racetrack was observed even though the discharge ran in pure Ar gas without O2 admixture, the oxidation depended on the discharge power and target composition; and (iii) a bright emission spot fixed on top of the inserted Cr disk appeared for high power conditions.
Theoretical and experimental investigations of acoustic waves in embedded fluid-solid multi-string structures
Authors: Liu Yang , D'Angelo Ralph M. , Sinha Bikash K. , Zeroug Smaine
Published: March 2017

Current acoustic measurements provide viable inspection for single cased wells, yet their interpretation for complicated multi-string wellbores where, for instance, two or more nested steel strings are deployed, is largely hampered by a lack of knowledge of the measured acoustic wave fields. This letter reports on theoretical and experimental investigations of the acoustic wave propagation in fluid-filled double string systems. Experimental measurements show excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions by a Sweeping Frequency Finite Element Method. The results lead to the identification of acoustic signatures that are crucial for an effective diagnosis of cement conditions in double-string cased wellbores.
Formation of self-organized domain structures with charged domain walls in lithium niobate with surface layer modified by proton exchange
Authors: Shur V. Ya. , Akhmatkhanov A. R. , Chuvakova M. A. , Dolbilov M. A. , Zelenovskiy P. S. , Lobov A. I.
Published: March 2017

We have studied the self-organized dendrite domain structures appeared as a result of polarization reversal in the uniform field in lithium niobate single crystals with the artificial surface layer created by proton exchange. We have revealed the self-organized sub-micron scale dendrite domain patterns consisting of domain stripes oriented along the X crystallographic directions separated by arrays of dashed residual domains at the surface by scanning probe microscopy. Raman confocal microscopy allowed visualizing the quasi-regular dendrite domain structures with similar geometry in the vicinity of both polar surfaces. The depth of the structure was about 20 μm for Z+ polar surface and 70 μm for Z− one. According to the proposed mechanism, the dendrite structure formation at the surface was related to the ineffective screening of the residual depolarization field. The computer simulation of the structure formation based on the cellular automata model with probabilistic switching rule proved the eligibility of the proposed scheme, the simulated dendrite domain patterns at various depths being similar to the experimental ones.
Multi-directional electromagnetic vibration energy harvester using circular Halbach array
Authors: Qiu Jing , Liu Xin , Hu Zhenwen , Chang Qijie , Gao Yuan , Yang Jin , Wen Jing , Tang Xiaosheng , Hu Wei
Published: March 2017

In this paper, a multi-directional electromagnetic vibration energy harvester (EVEH) using the circular Halbach array (HA) is presented based on the Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. The circular HA is a specific arrangement of permanent magnets which could concentrate the magnetic field inside the circular array by a certain rule, while reduce the magnetic field outside the circular array to almost zero at the same time. The HA could break through the limitation of the related published vibration energy harvesters that could work in only one single direction. Thus, it could optimize the collecting efficiency. The experimental results show that the presented harvester could generate considerable electric output power in all vibrating directions. An optimal output power is 9.32 mW at a resonant frequency of 15.40 Hz with an acceleration of 0.5 g (with g=9.8 m/s2) across a 700-turn coil in the vibrating direction of 90°, which is 1.53 times than the minimum optimal one in the direction of 45°. The EVEH using the circular HA could work in all directions and generate considerable electric output power, which validates the feasibility of the EVEH that works in all directions and is beneficial for improving the practical application.
The effect of annealing temperature on the magnetic anisotropy in Co ultrathin film on MgO(001) substrate
Authors: Zhang Yong-Sheng , He Wei , Tang Jin , Ahmad Syed Sheraz , Zhang Wei , Li Yan , Zhang Xiang-Qun , Cheng Zhao-Hua
Published: March 2017

Co epitaxial thin films with 2.5nm thickness were prepared on single-crystal MgO(001) substrates and annealed at different temperatures. The contribution of each interface of the MgO/Co/Cu trilayer to the in-plane magnetic anisotropy (IMA) was studied by changing interfacial coupling through annealing. The structure was measured by low energy electron diffraction (LEED), and the magnetic properties were measured using the anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) measurements and the longitudinal Magneto-optical Kerr effect magnetometer (MOKE). We found that the magnetic anisotropy of the as-deposited one shows superposition of a two-fold symmetry with a weak four-fold contribution caused by the stress of the interface between Co/Cu, which is along the easy axis [-110]. After annealing at 200°C, the symmetry of magnetic anisotropy was changed from uniaxial magnetic anisotropy (UMA) into four-fold symmetry due to the significant increasing of four-fold magnetocrystalline anisotropy. When the films were annealed above 300°C, the damage of the MgO/Co interface additionally decreased the IMA to isotropy. Meanwhile, the coercivity raised from 45Oe (without annealing) to 1200Oe (annealed at 400°C) along the easy axis direction. Our experimental results prove that the Co/Cu interface and the MgO/Co interface play an essential role in manipulating the four-fold and the UMA in the system.
Fe-Si-B-P-C-Cu nanocrystalline soft magnetic powders with high B
s and low core loss
Authors: Takahashi T. , Yoshida K. , Shimizu Y. , Setyawan A. D. , Bito M. , Abe M. , Makino A.
Published: March 2017

The magnetic properties of Fe-Si-B-P-C-Cu nanocrystalline powders were investigated. Fe-Si-B-P-C-Cu powders with a mostly amorphous structure were prepared by an atomization method. The atomized powders were annealed in inert gas atmosphere for nanocrystallization. The Fe84.8Si0.5B9.4P3.5C1Cu0.8 nanocrystalline powder exhibits high Bs of 1.76T, which is appreciably higher than that of conventional Fe-based amorphous powders (1.3 - 1.5 T) and close to that of Fe3.5Si4.5Cr (1.86T) crystalline one. The magnetic loss of toroidal core made of the Fe84.8Si0.5B9.4P3.5C1Cu0.8 nanocrystalline powder is also the lowest compared to that of amorphous and crystalline counterparts. This result indicates that Fe-Si-B-P-C-Cu nanocrystalline powders could contribute in efficiency-improvement as well as miniaturization of soft-magnetic cores.
Whole-tract digestibility and nitrogen-use efficiency of partial mixed rations with and without canola meal
Authors: Russo V. M. , Marett L. C. , Wright M. M. , Auldist M. J. , Wales W. J.
Published: March 2017

Increasing the crude protein (CP) concentration of a ration fed to grazing dairy cows by adding canola meal can increase milk production. The present study investigated the effect of extra CP intake on nitrogen-use efficiency and the fate of the additional dietary nitrogen (N). Sixteen spring-calved rumen fistulated cows were housed in metabolism stalls for a 9-day period and offered one of the following four treatment diets: (1) 8 kg DM/cow.day of fresh perennial ryegrass (PRG) supplemented with 12 kg DM/cow.day of a partial mixed ration (PMR) comprising oaten hay, crushed maize and wheat grain (PMR 8); (2) 12 kg DM/cow.day of fresh-cut PRG and 12 kg DM/cow.day of PMR (PMR 12); (3) the same as for PMR 8 cows, except some wheat in the PMR was replaced with canola meal (PMR+C 8); and (4) the same as the PMR 12 cows, except some wheat in the PMR was replaced with canola meal (PMR+C 12). The PMR and the PMR+C diets were iso-energetic, but the canola meal provided extra CP. Crude protein intake was 14.4%, 14.8%, 16.8% and 17.4% DM for PMR 8, PMR 12, PMR+C 8 and PMR+C 12 respectively. The addition of canola meal increased DM intake (P < 0.05) from 20.4 to 21.6 kg/day and increased N intake (P < 0.001) from 478 to 590 g/day. Nitrogen digestibility increased (P < 0.05) from 67% to 71%, nitrogen-use efficiency decreased (P < 0.05) from 37% to 32% and urinary-N output increased (P < 0.01) from 118 to 160 g/day, indicating that the additional CP fed resulted in additional N surplus. Energy-corrected milk yield for the experimental period was 34 ± 3.1 kg/cow.day (mean ± s.d.); however, due to the low number of cows, the ability to rigorously assess the effects on milk production was limited.
Pasture productivity and quality of Urochloa brizantha cultivar Marandu evaluated at two grazing intervals and their impact on milk production
Authors: Moura A. M. , Tomich T. R. , Pereira L. G. R. , Teixeira A. M. , Paciullo D. S. C. , Jayme D. G. , Machado F. S. , Gomide C. A. M. , Campos M. M. , Chaves A. V. , Gonçalves L. C.
Published: March 2017

The present study aimed to evaluate two rotational stocking intervals (GI) over three consecutive grazing periods on forage productivity, crude protein and neutral detergent fibre of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu pastures, and the subsequent impact on milk production. Grazing treatments were (1) fixed rest period at 30 days (30-FG) and (2) grazing interval when canopy was intercepting 95% photosynthetically active radiation (95-LI). Eighteen multiparous Holstein × Zebu cows (548 ± 61.0 kg bodyweight, BW) and 70 ± 18.1 days in milk were used. Experiment lasted for 99 days (i.e. 33 days per period). Nine cows with similar milk production and BW were randomly allocated to each GI treatment balanced on milk production and BW. The adjustment of carrying capacity per paddock was made aiming to achieve a post-grazing residual height of 20 cm. For this, additional dry Holstein × Zebu cows (averaging 550 kg BW) were added and removed from the paddocks according put-and-take technique. Data were statistically analysed considering field sites as block (n = 2), GI (30-FG vs 95-LI), periods (three consecutive) and interaction GI × periods. Interactions occurred between GI and periods for pre- and post-grazing height (P ≤ 0.05). Greater pre-grazing height was observed for 30-FG (P < 0.01), but post-grazing height was greater (P < 0.01) for 30-FG only in the third period. GI for treatment 30-FG was ~6 days longer (P = 0.01) than that for 95-LIand light interception was greater (2%) for 30-FG. Total forage, stem and dead material mass per area were greater (P < 0.01) for 30-FG than 95-LI. However, stocking rate was 11.3% greater (P = 0.02) for 95-LI than 30-FG. In the pre-grazing period, 95-LI had greater (P < 0.01) proportion of leaves and a greater leaf : stem ratio, whereas neutral detergent fibre concentration tended to be lower (P = 0.08) and crude protein concentration greater (P < 0.01) in 95-LI than in 30-FG. Daily milk productivity per area and its components were 16–28% greater (P < 0.01) for 95-LI than for 30-FD. These results suggest that GI of Marandu grass determined by light interception at 95% (95-LI) enabled the reduction of GI, improved forage nutritive value and increased milk productivity compared with a fixed 30 days (30-FG) of rest.
Preparing Australian fisheries for the critical decade: insights from the past 25 years
Authors: Hobday Alistair J. , Cvitanovic Christopher
Published: March 2017

The impacts of climate change on marine fish and fisheries are evident around Australia, and responding to these challenges over the next decade is critical for continued sustainability. Recent years have seen the rise of climate and fishery research; however, looking further into the past can inform future approaches to fishery research, management and monitoring. We assess the progress over 25 years, on the basis of a set of recommendations made at the first Australian workshop addressing climate concerns for fisheries. The nine workshop recommendations are still relevant today, and although monitoring efforts have been significant and knowledge has accumulated rapidly, implementation of management and policy responses have lagged. We suggest that this is because societal and fisher awareness of climate change have lagged, in part because climate change has not been considered the most pressing issue over this time. To successfully respond to the climate-change challenges to Australian fisheries over the next decade, a concerted effort directed at a wide range of stakeholders to foster support for climate-ready fishery policies and programs is needed.
Novel combinatorial screening identifies neurotrophic factors for selective classes of motor neurons
Authors: Schaller Sébastien , Buttigieg Dorothée , Alory Alysson , Jacquier Arnaud , Barad Marc , Merchant Mark , Gentien David , de la Grange Pierre , Haase Georg
Published: March 2017

Significance

Neurotrophic factors are endogenous survival factors for developing neurons during their programmed cell death, and represent therapeutic candidates in several neurodegenerative diseases. Studies in the developing spinal cord suggest that neurotrophic factors promote the survival of motor neurons in a combinatorial manner. To better understand this, we systematically assayed pairwise combinations of neurotrophic factors (NTFs) on highly standardized motor neuron cultures prepared by a unique FACS technique. Our data unravel potent additivity of three neurotrophic factors due to their specific survival effects on distinct classes of motor neurons innervating different targets. Further analyses are required to better understand combinatorial NTF effects in adulthood and to define optimized NTF combinations for degenerative motor neuron diseases.