bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrasound Signal Detection and Back Azimuth Estimation Using Ground‐Coupled Airwaves on a Seismo‐Acoustic Sensor Pair
Authors: McKee Kathleen , Fee David , Haney Matthew , Matoza Robin S. , Lyons John
Published: July 2018

We present a new infrasonic signal detection and back azimuth determination technique that requires just one microphone and one three‐component seismometer. Ground‐coupled airwaves (GCAs) occur when an incident atmospheric acoustic wave impinges on the ground surface and is partially transmitted as a seismic wave. GCAs are commonly detected hundreds of kilometers away on seismic networks and are observed to have retrograde particle motion. Horizontally propagating acoustic waves and GCAs have previously been observed on collocated infrasound and seismic sensor pairs as coherent with a 90° phase difference. If the sensors are spatially separated, an additional propagation‐induced phase shift is present. The additional phase shift depends on the direction from which the acoustic wave arrives, as each back azimuth has a different apparent distance between the sensors. We use the additional phase shift, the coherence, and the characteristic particle motion on the three‐component seismometer to determine GCA arrivals and their unique back azimuth. We test this technique with synthetic seismo‐acoustic data generated by a coupled Earth‐atmosphere 3‐D finite difference code, as well as three seismo‐acoustic data sets from Mount St. Helens, Mount Cleveland, and Mount Pagan volcanoes. Results from our technique compare favorably with traditional infrasound array processing and provide robust GCA detection and back azimuth determination. Assuming adequate station spacing and sampling, our technique provides a new and robust method to detect infrasonic signals and determine their back azimuth, and may be of practical benefit where resources are limited and large sensor networks or arrays are not feasible.
Why Are Siberian Temperatures Plummeting While the Arctic Warms?
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: July 2018

The answer involves the intricacies of stratospheric circulation, which, if better represented in climate models, could help predict extreme weather events in Siberia and elsewhere.
IPIM Modeling of the Ionospheric F2 Layer Depletion at High Latitudes During a High‐Speed Stream Event
Authors: Marchaudon A. , Blelly P.‐L. , Grandin M. , Aikio A. , Kozlovsky A. , Virtanen I.
Published: July 2018

Our aim is to understand the effect of high‐speed stream events on the high‐latitude ionosphere and more specifically the decrease of the foF2 frequency during the entire day following the impact. First, we have selected one summertime event, for which a large data set was available: Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) and European Incoherent SCATter (EISCAT) radars, Tromsø and Sodankylä ionosondes, and the CHAllenging Minisatellite Payload (CHAMP) satellite. We modeled with the IPIM model (IRAP Plasmasphere Ionosphere Model) the dynamics of the ionosphere at Tromsø and Sodankylä using inputs derived from the data. The simulations nicely match the measurements made by the EISCAT radar and the ionosondes, and we showed that the decrease of foF2 is associated with a transition from F2 to F1 layer resulting from a decrease of neutral atomic oxygen concentration. Modeling showed that electrodynamics can explain short‐term behavior on the scale of a few hours, but long‐term behavior on the scale of a few days results from the perturbation induced in the atmosphere. Enhancement of convection is responsible for a sharp increase of the ion temperature by Joule heating, leading through chemistry to an immediate reduction of the F2 layer. Then, ion drag on neutrals is responsible for a rapid heating and expansion of the thermosphere. This expansion affects atomic oxygen through nonthermal upward flow, which results in a decrease of its concentration and amplifies the decrease of [O]/[N2] ratio. This thermospheric change explains long‐term extinction of the F2 layer.
Earthquakes and Tremor Linked to Seamount Subduction During Shallow Slow Slip at the Hikurangi Margin, New Zealand
Authors: Todd Erin K. , Schwartz Susan Y. , Mochizuki Kimihiro , Wallace Laura M. , Sheehan Anne F. , Webb Spahr C. , Williams Charles A. , Nakai Jenny , Yarce Jefferson , Fry Bill , Henrys Stuart , Ito Yoshihiro
Published: July 2018

Shallow slow slip events have been well documented offshore Gisborne at the northern Hikurangi subduction margin, New Zealand, and are associated with tectonic tremor downdip of the slow slip patch and increases in local microseismicity. Tremor and seismicity on the shallow subduction interface are often poorly resolved due to their distance from land‐based seismic and geodetic networks. To address this shortcoming, the Hikurangi Ocean Bottom Investigation of Tremor and Slow Slip experiment deployed 24 absolute pressure gauges and 15 ocean bottom seismometers on the seafloor above the Gisborne slow slip patch to investigate the spatial and temporal extent of slow slip and associated tremor and earthquake activity. We present a detailed spatiotemporal analysis of the seismic signatures of various interplate slip processes associated with the September/October 2014 Gisborne slow slip event. Tectonic tremor begins toward the end and continues after the geodetically constrained slow slip event and is localized in the vicinity of two subducted seamounts within and updip of the slow slip patch. The subsequent, rather than synchronous occurrence of tremor suggests that tremor may be triggered by stress changes induced by slow slip. However, Coulomb failure stress change models based on the slow slip distribution fail to predict the location of tremor, suggesting that seamount subduction plays a dominant role in the stress state of the shallow megathrust. This and the observed interplay of seismic and aseismic interplate slip processes imply that stress changes from slow slip play a secondary role in the distribution of associated microseismicity.
Interannual and Secular Variability of Larvae of Mesopelagic and Forage Fishes in the Southern California Current System
Authors: McClatchie Sam , Gao Jin , Drenkard Elizabeth J. , Thompson Andrew R. , Watson William , Ciannelli Lorenzo , Bograd Steven J. , Thorson James T.
Published: July 2018

We used univariate and multivariate spatiotemporal delta models to quantify changes in the distribution of ichthyoplankton in the southern California Current System from 1951 to 2016. We focus on mesopelagic species, because they are most abundant, and on northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax), Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax), and Pacific hake (Merluccius productus), because they are important commercial and forage fish species. Univariate models indicated that changes in the relative abundance, area occupied, center of gravity, and spatiotemporal variability of numerically dominant warm‐water and cool‐water‐associated mesopelagic ichthyoplankton show strong species‐specific differences. Multivariate models revealed that the warm‐water‐associated mesopelagic assemblage exhibits an increasing, nonmonotonic, secular trend of increasing relative abundance underlying interannual variability, suggesting a tropicalization of the southern California Current System. In contrast, the cool‐water‐associated mesopelagic assemblage shows mainly interannual variability, with little secular trend over the 65‐year period. Correlation matrices of the modeled ichthyoplankton densities showed that the spatial distributions of northern anchovy and Pacific hake are highly correlated with cool‐water mesopelagic ichthyoplankton, but Pacific sardine is spatially correlated with both warm‐ and cool‐water‐associated mesopelagic species. Declines of adult sardine, anchovy, and hake are occurring concurrently with tropicalization of the southern California Current System. The most parsimonious explanation for tropicalization of the ichthyoplankton is increased presence of Pacific Equatorial‐influenced Water in the inshore southern California region.
Surface Salinity Balance in the Tropical Pacific Off Mexico
Authors: Portela Esther , Beier Emilio , Barton Eric D. , Sánchez‐Velasco Laura
Published: July 2018

A simplified analytical model was used to solve the salinity balance equation and study the relative contributions of freshwater flux and salt advection to the salinity tendency between the Gulf of Tehuantepec and Cabo Corrientes (14–22°N). The model used climatological mixed‐layer salinity, satellite‐derived geostrophic velocity and evaporation minus precipitation data in a four‐domain scheme. The mean circulation derived from the model largely coincides with previous reports and suggests that, in the steady state, the Mexican Coastal Current is decoupled from the Tehuantepec region. The analysis of the time‐dependent variability showed that the salt advection can be largely explained by the annual variations of the alongshore velocity (corresponding with the Mexican Coastal Current) and an average salinity. At the seasonal scale, the salt advection and the freshwater flux have similar contributions to the resulting salinity tendency. Near Tehuantepec, due to a local salinity regime, the analytical model does not represent well the observations, while in Manzanillo and Zihuatanejo the agreement between the model and the observations is good in both amplitude and phase. The accuracy of the model in representing the observations is improved in the first third of the year by inclusion of the semiannual scale and the nonlinear processes in the equation of salt advection.
Versatility of ARD1/NAA10-mediated protein lysine acetylation
Authors: Vo Tam Thuy Lu , Jeong Chul-Ho , Lee Sooyeun , Kim Kyu-Won , Ha Eunyoung , Seo Ji Hae
Published: July 2018

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are chemical alterations that occur in proteins that play critical roles in various cellular functions. Lysine acetylation is an important PTM in eukaryotes, and it is catalyzed by lysine acetyltransferases (KATs). KATs transfer acetyl-coenzyme A to the internal lysine residue of substrate proteins. Arrest defective 1 (ARD1) is a member of the KAT family. Since the identification of its KAT activity 15 years ago, many studies have revealed that diverse cellular proteins are acetylated by ARD1. ARD1-mediated lysine acetylation is a key switch that regulates the enzymatic activities and biological functions of proteins and influences cell biology from development to pathology. In this review, we summarize protein lysine acetylation mediated by ARD1 and describe the biological meanings of this modification.
Multiobjective genetic training and uncertainty quantification of reactive force fields
Authors: Mishra Ankit , Hong Sungwook , Rajak Pankaj , Sheng Chunyang , Nomura Ken-ichi , Kalia Rajiv K. , Nakano Aiichiro , Vashishta Priya
Published: July 2018

The ReaxFF reactive force-field approach has significantly extended the applicability of reactive molecular dynamics simulations to a wide range of material properties and processes. ReaxFF parameters are commonly trained to fit a predefined set of quantum-mechanical data, but it remains uncertain how accurately the quantities of interest are described when applied to complex chemical reactions. Here, we present a dynamic approach based on multiobjective genetic algorithm for the training of ReaxFF parameters and uncertainty quantification of simulated quantities of interest. ReaxFF parameters are trained by directly fitting reactive molecular dynamics trajectories against quantum molecular dynamics trajectories on the fly, where the Pareto optimal front for the multiple quantities of interest provides an ensemble of ReaxFF models for uncertainty quantification. Our in situ multiobjective genetic algorithm workflow achieves scalability by eliminating the file I/O bottleneck using interprocess communications. The in situ multiobjective genetic algorithm workflow has been applied to high-temperature sulfidation of MoO3 by H2S precursor, which is an essential reaction step for chemical vapor deposition synthesis of MoS2 layers. Our work suggests a new reactive molecular dynamics simulation approach for far-from-equilibrium chemical processes, which quantitatively reproduces quantum molecular dynamics simulations while providing error bars.
Identification of MicroRNAs and Their Target Genes Associated with Ovarian Development in Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon) Using High-Throughput Sequencing
Authors: Zhao Chao , Fan Sigang , Qiu Lihua
Published: July 2018

Plenty of evidence showing that microRNAs (miRNAs) post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression and are involved in a wide range of biological processes. However, the roles of miRNAs in ovarian development process remain largely unknown in shrimp. In the present study, high-throughput sequencing of small RNAs was performed to find specific miRNAs that are involved in ovarian development process in Penaeus monodon. Two small RNA libraries were constructed from undeveloped (UNDEV group) and developed (DEV group) ovarian tissues in P. monodon. In total, 43 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified between the two groups (P ≤ 0.05, |log2 ratio| ≥1), and their expression profiles were validated by qRT-PCR. In order to further clarify the functional roles of these differentially expressed miRNAs during ovarian development process, target gene prediction was performed. In total, 4,102 target genes of 43 miRNAs were predicted, then clustered by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database; only four specific pathways related to ovarian development were obtained (P < 0.05). Dual-luciferase reporter assays and integrated expression analysis were also conducted to further clarify the interaction between the miRNAs and their target mRNAs. This study provides important information about the function of miRNAs involved in ovarian developmental stages in P. monodon.
Predictive value of the maximum serum creatinine value and growth rate in acute paraquat poisoning patients
Authors: Feng Meng-Xiao , Li Yu-Ning , Ruan Wei-Shuyi , Lu Yuan-Qiang
Published: July 2018

This retrospective and a single-center study evaluated the prognostic value of the maximum serum creatinine value (maxCr) and the maximum serum creatinine growth rate (Vmax) after paraquat (PQ) ingestion. One hundred and seventy-one patients with PQ poisoning were treated with a uniform protocol. Demographic variables, clinical manifestations, relevant laboratory data, maxCr and Vmax of all patients were recorded and calculated. The time after PQ ingestion of maxCr and Vmax were also recorded. Vmax and MaxCr exhibited statistically significant differences between the survivor (n = 53) and death (n = 118) groups. Vmax appeared earlier in the death group than the survivor group. Regard to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, Vmax had an AUC of 0.861 (95% CI, 0.801–0.921) and the optimal cut-off value of 6.21 μmol/(L·h) (sensitivity, 76.3%; specificity, 81.1%). MaxCr had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.821 (95% CI, 0.752–0.889) and the optimal cut-off value of 225.5 µmol/L (sensitivity, 82.2%; specificity, 67.9%). The comparison of the AUC in the two parameters showed no significant difference, but Vmax appeared earlier than maxCr. Based on binary logistic regression analysis, MaxCr and Vmax both showed strong predictive powers for evaluating the prognosis of acute PQ poisoning patients.
Poultry and beef meat as potential seedbeds for antimicrobial resistant enterotoxigenic Bacillus species: a materializing epidemiological and potential severe health hazard
Authors: Osman Kamelia M. , Kappell Anthony D. , Orabi Ahmed , Al-Maary Khalid S. , Mubarak Ayman S. , Dawoud Turki M. , Hemeg Hassan A. , Moussa Ihab M. I. , Hessain Ashgan M. , Yousef Hend M. Y. , Hristova Krassimira R.
Published: July 2018

AlthoughBacillus cereusis of particular concern in food safety and public health, the role of otherBacillusspecies was overlooked. Therefore, we investigated the presence of eight enterotoxigenic genes, a hemolytic gene and phenotypic antibiotic resistance profiles ofBacillusspecies in retail meat samples. From 255 samples, 124Bacillusisolates were recovered, 27 belonged toB.cereusand 97 were non-B.cereusspecies. Interestingly, the non-B.cereusisolates carried the virulence genes and exhibited phenotypic virulence characteristics as theB.cereus. However, correlation matrix analysis revealed theB.cereusgroup positively correlates with the presence of the geneshblA,hblC, andplc, and the detection of hemolysis (p < 0.05), while the otherBacillussp. groups are negatively correlated. Tests for antimicrobial resistance against ten antibiotics revealed extensive drug and multi-drug resistant isolates. Statistical analyses didn’t support a correlation of antibiotic resistance to tested virulence factors suggesting independence of these phenotypic markers and virulence genes. Of special interest was the isolation ofPaenibacillus alveiandGeobacillus stearothermophilusfrom the imported meat samples being the first recorded. The isolation of non-B.cereusspecies carrying enterotoxigenic genes in meat within Egypt, suggests their impact on food safety and public health and should therefore not be minimised, posing an area that requires further research.
Association between post-transplant uric acid level and renal allograft fibrosis: Analysis using Banff pathologic scores from renal biopsies
Authors: Kim Deok Gie , Kim Beom Seok , Choi Hoon Young , Lim Beom Jin , Huh Kyu Ha , Kim Myoung Soo , Jeong Hyeon Joo , Kim Yu Seun
Published: July 2018

Several experimental studies implicate uric acid in renal injury and fibrosis. The objective of this study was to examine the association between uric acid level and allograft fibrosis after kidney transplantation. 241 adult patients who underwent kidney transplantation between 2003 and 2014 were divided into three groups according to the sex specific tertiles of mean uric acid level within the first post-transplant year. The renal biopsies performed during 1 to 5 post-transplant year were analyzed to compare the degree of interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IF/TA). Mean interval between kidney transplantation and biopsy was similar between groups (23.7 ± 15.3 vs. 30.0 ± 18.6 vs. 27.5 ± 18.5 months, P = 0.072). The higher tertile uric acid level was, the more advanced grade of IF/TA was shown (P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified uric acid tertile was independent risk factor for severe IF/TA (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] was 3.16 [1.13–8.82] for tertile 2 and 3.70 [1.25–10.93] for tertile 3, versus tertile 1, respectively). Other independent factors were estimated glomerular filtration rate at 1year post-transplant (0.80 [CI 0.65–0.98]) and biopsy-proven rejection (2.34 [1.05–5.21]). Graft survival over 10 years was significantly lower in tertile 3 (P = 0.041). The results showed that higher uric acid level after kidney transplantation was associated with more severe IF/TA.
Evidence of Systematic Triggering at Teleseismic Distances Following Large Earthquakes
Authors: O’Malley Robert T. , Mondal Debashis , Goldfinger Chris , Behrenfeld Michael J.
Published: July 2018

Earthquakes are part of a cycle of tectonic stress buildup and release. As fault zones near the end of this seismic cycle, tipping points may be reached whereby triggering occurs and small forces result in cascading failures. The extent of this effect on global seismicity is currently unknown. Here we present evidence of ongoing triggering of earthquakes at remote distances following large source events. The earthquakes used in this study had magnitudes ≥M5.0 and the time period analyzed following large events spans three days. Earthquake occurrences display increases over baseline rates as a function of arc distance away from the epicenters. Thep-values deviate from a uniform distribution, with values for collective features commonly below 0.01. An average global forcing function of increased short term seismic risk is obtained along with an upper bound response. The highest magnitude source events trigger more events, and the average global response indicates initial increased earthquake counts followed by quiescence and recovery. Higher magnitude earthquakes also appear to be triggered more often than lower magnitude events. The region with the greatest chance of induced earthquakes following all source events is on the opposite side of the earth, within 30 degrees of the antipode.
Probing pairing symmetry in multi-band superconductors by quasiparticle interference
Authors: Dutt A. , Golubov A. A. , Efremov D. V. , Dolgov O. V.
Published: July 2018

We study momentum and energy dependencies of the quasiparticle interference (QPI) response function in multiband superconductors in the framework of the strong-coupling Eliashberg approach. Within an effective two-band model we study the s± and s++ symmetry cases, corresponding to opposite or equal signs of the order parameters in the bands. We demonstrate that the momentum dependence of the QPI function is strikingly different for s± and s++ symmetries of the order parameter at energies close to the small gap. At the same time, the QPI response becomes indistinguishable for both symmetries at higher energies around the large gap. This result may guide future experiments on probing pairing symmetry in iron pnictides as well as in other unconventional superconductors.
Nine isomorphous lanthanide–uranyl f–f bimetallic materials with 2-thiophenecarboxylic acid and terpyridine: structure and concomitant luminescent properties
Authors: Ridenour J. August , Cahill Christopher L.
Published: July 2018

Concomitant and semi-selective uranyl and lanthanide luminescence observed within a series of f–f bimetallic molecular materials (UO22+/Ln = Pr–Er).
Synergistic enhancement of Cs and Br doping in formamidinium lead halide perovskites for high performance optoelectronics
Authors: Li Qingxian , Liu Yucheng , Zhang Yunxia , Hu Mingxin , Yang Zhou , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: July 2018

Cs and Br doped FAPbI3 shows better phase stability as well as optoelectronic properties, furnishing it with good optoelectronic performance.
Radicals generated in alternating guanine–cytosine duplexes by direct absorption of low-energy UV radiation
Authors: Banyasz Akos , Martínez-Fernández Lara , Improta Roberto , Ketola Tiia-Maaria , Balty Clémence , Markovitsi Dimitra
Published: July 2018

Absorption of single photons with energy significantly lower than the ionization potential of DNA bases generates radicals decaying on the millisecond time-scale.
Synthesis, structures, and reactivity studies of cyclometalated N-heterocyclic carbene complexes of ruthenium
Authors: Liu Hsueh-Ju , Ziegler Micah S. , Tilley T. Don
Published: July 2018

Dehydrochlorination of Cp*Ru(IPr)Cl leads to an unusual C–C bond activation, yielding a cyclometalated Ru complex bearing an NHC-C(sp2) ligand. Reactivity studies of cyclometalated Ru complexes were explored.
Half-sandwich Os(ii) and Ru(ii) bathophenanthroline complexes: anticancer drug candidates with unusual potency and a cellular activity profile in highly invasive triple-negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Pracharova Jitka , Novohradsky Vojtech , Kostrhunova Hana , Štarha Pavel , Trávníček Zdeněk , Kasparkova Jana , Brabec Viktor
Published: July 2018

A half-sandwich Os(ii) bathophenanthroline complex is a potent agent against highly progressive, poorly treatable triple-negative breast cancer cells.
Recent developments and insights into the understanding of Na metal anodes for Na-metal batteries
Authors: Zhao Yang , Adair Keegan R. , Sun Xueliang
Published: July 2018

This literature review presents the recent development and deep insight into the understanding of Na metal anode for Na metal batteries.
Ternary non-fullerene polymer solar cells with 13.51% efficiency and a record-high fill factor of 78.13%
Authors: Nian Li , Kan Yuanyuan , Wang Haitao , Gao Ke , Xu Bo , Rong Qikun , Wang Rong , Wang Jing , Liu Feng , Chen Junwu , Zhou Guofu , Russell Thomas P. , Jen Alex K.-Y.
Published: July 2018

High PCEs and FFs are achieved in ternary non-fullerene PSCs by adding a strongly aggregating polymer into PBDB-T:IT-M and PBDB-T:ITIC.
Cucurbit[7]uril-based high-performance catalytic microreactors
Authors: Ren Xiaohe , Yu Ziyi , Wu Yuchao , Liu Ji , Abell Chris , Scherman Oren A.
Published: July 2018

Fabrication of cucurbit[n]uril-based catalytic microreactors through the immobilisation of metallic nanoparticles onto microchannels.
Cu dimer anchored on C2N monolayer: low-cost and efficient Bi-atom catalyst for CO oxidation
Authors: Li Fengyu , Chen Zhongfang
Published: July 2018

By means of density functional theory (DFT) computations, we systemically investigated CO/O2adsorption and CO oxidation pathways on a bi-atom catalyst, namely, a copper dimer anchored on a C2N monolayer (Cu2@C2N), and we compared it with its monometallic counterpart Cu1@C2N.
Synthesis of 6-(sulfonylmethyl)phenanthridines through a reaction of aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates, sulfur dioxide, and vinyl azides
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Li Yuewen , Qiu Guanyinsheng , Wu Jie
Published: July 2018

Synthesis of 6-(sulfonylmethyl)phenanthridines through a three-component reaction of aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates, a sulfur dioxide surrogate of DABCO·(SO2)2, and vinyl azides under metal- and additive-free conditions is achieved.
Arabidopsis calcineurin B-like proteins differentially regulate phosphorylation activity of CBL-interacting protein kinase 9
Authors: Yadav Akhilesh K. , Jha Saroj K. , Sanyal Sibaji K. , Luan Sheng , Pandey Girdhar K.
Published: July 2018

Calcium (Ca2+) is a versatile and ubiquitous second messenger in all eukaryotes including plants. In response to various stimuli, cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) is increased, leading to activation of Ca2+ sensors including Arabidopsis calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs). CBLs interact with CBL-interacting protein kinases (CIPKs) to form CBL–CIPK complexes and transduce the signal downstream in the signalling pathway. Although there are many reports on the regulation of downstream targets by CBL–CIPK module, knowledge about the regulation of upstream components by individual CIPKs is inadequate. In the present study, we have carried out a detailed biochemical characterization of CIPK9, a known regulator of K+ deficiency in Arabidopsis, with its interacting CBLs. The present study suggests that CIPK9 specifically interacts with four CBLs, i.e. CBL1, CBL2, CBL3 and CBL9, in yeast two-hybrid assays. Out of these four CBLs, CBL2 and CBL3, specifically enhance the kinase activity of CIPK9, while the CBL1 and CBL9 decrease it as examined by in vitro kinase assays. In contrast, truncated CIPK9 (CIPK9ΔR), without the CBL-interacting regulatory C-terminal region, is not differentially activated by interacting CBLs. The protein phosphorylation assay revealed that CBL2 and CBL3 serve as preferred substrates of CIPK9. CBL2– and CBL3–CIPK9 complexes show altered requirement for metal cofactors when compared with CIPK9 alone. Moreover, the autophosphorylation of constitutively active CIPK9 (CIPK9T178D) and less active CIPK9 (CIPK9T178A) in the presence of CBL2 and CBL3 was further enhanced. Our study suggests that CIPK9 differentially phosphorylates interacting CBLs, and furthermore, the kinase activity of CIPK9 is also differentially regulated by specific interacting CBLs.
Polymorphisms of the STAT4 gene in the pathogenesis of tuberculosis
Authors: Wu Shouquan , Wang Minggui , Wang Yu , Zhang Miaomiao , He Jian-Qing
Published: July 2018

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT4) gene encodes a transcription factor that transmits signals induced by several cytokines which play critical roles in the development of autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. In the present study, we have investigated the association between STAT4 polymorphisms and a predisposition to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). In the present study, a total of 209 cases of PTB, 201 subjects with latent TB infection (LTBI), and 204 healthy controls (HC) were included. Logistic regression analyses were used to calculate P-values, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for assessing the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and disease risk. We used Bonferroni correction to adjust the P-values. Genotyping was conducted using the improved multiplex ligase detection reaction (iMLDR) method. For the rs7574865 polymorphism, the GT genotype is less frequent in the LTBI group compared with HC (P=0.028, OR = 0.62; 95%CI: 0.40–0.95). In addition, the prevalence of the rs897200 CC genotype was lower in the PTB cases compared with LTBI individuals (P=0.039, OR = 0.54; 95%CI: 0.30–0.97). However, no SNPs within STAT4 were associated with PTB or LTBI after Bonferroni correction. Our study demonstrated that STAT4 variants were not related to LTBI and PTB.
Analysis of anti-osteoporosis function of chlorogenic acid by gene microarray profiling in ovariectomy rat model
Authors: Min Jun , Yuan Zhen , Zhang Qiao , Lin Sijian , Wang Kai , Luo Jun
Published: July 2018

The aim of the present study was to clarify the effect of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on estrogen deficiency-induced osteoporosis based on micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and potential mechanism of gene regulation via microarray profiling. Eighteen female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided randomly into sham-operated group, ovariectomy (OVX) plus saline vehicle group, and OVX plus CGA treatment group (CGA at 45 mg/kg/day). The loss of bone mass of the femoral metaphysis was evaluated by micro-CT to represent. Gene expression profiling was analyzed for bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) of OVX and OVXT groups. Bioinformatics analysis was used to find the potential pathways regulated by CGA. OVX-induced osteoporosis could decrease femur bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV), trabecula number (Tb.N), and trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) and increased the trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) and structure model index (SMI) in the rats. Gene microarray profiling showed 121 differentially expressed genes in collected BMSCs between OVX and OVXT groups were identified with a threshold of a two-fold change and P<0.05. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) was used to analyze the potential mechanism of CGA and we observed that many mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway associtated genes were altered, suggesting this pathway may play an important role. CGA improved bone quality by modifying the BMD and trabecular microarchitecture. Differential expression genes were screened by gene microarray profile and the results suggested MAPK pathway might participate in the process of OVX-induced bone remodeling.
Follow-Up on the Story Goodness Index for Characterizing Discourse Deficits Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Lindsey André , Hurley Erin , Mozeiko Jennifer , Coelho Carl
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The Story Goodness Index (SGI) is a hybrid analysis of narrative discourse combining 2 macrostructural measures: story grammar and story completeness. Initially proposed by Lê and colleagues (
Lê, Coelho, Mozeiko, & Grafman, 2011
), the SGI is intended to characterize the discourse performance of individuals with cognitive–communication disorders. In this study, the SGI was utilized to examine the discourse of 2 groups, one with closed head injuries and another with non–brain injured (NBI) peers. The intent of this study was to ascertain whether the SGI could differentiate the discourse performance of the 2 groups, as was previously reported for individuals with penetrating traumatic brain injury and an NBI comparison group (
Lê, Coelho, Mozeiko, Krueger, & Grafman, 2012
). Because of the retrospective nature of this study, the wordless visual narrative used to elicit discourse was different from the narrative used by
Lê and colleagues (2012)
.

Method

A retrospective analysis of discourse was performed on 55 individuals with a history of closed head injury and 47 NBI socioeconomically matched peers. During the initial assessment, participants were engaged in a narrative retell task. Each participant was shown a wordless picture story and then asked to retell the story to the examiner. Story narratives were reanalyzed for story grammar (organization) and completeness (critical content).

Results

A significant group difference was noted for the story grammar measure, but not for story completeness. Although the SGI plots depicted the heterogeneity in discourse performance of the 2 groups, a chi-square test of independence revealed no significant association between group membership and SGI quadrant.

Conclusions

Findings from this study were inconsistent with those of Lê and colleagues. The studies did not use identical SGI protocols; specifically, different picture stimuli were used to elicit the story retells. Therefore, this study cannot be considered a replication. The story used by Lê and colleagues was judged to be more complex, requiring more inference for story interpretation. Future studies should interpret findings within the context of the story stimuli presented.
Protection strategy for multi‐terminal high‐voltage direct current grids using SFCLs at converter station output
Authors: Leon Garcia William Ricardo , Bertinato Alberto , Tixador Pascal , Raison Bertrand , Luscan Bruno
Published: July 2018

This study proposes a non‐selective protection strategy for multi‐terminal high voltage direct current grids based on resistive‐type superconducting fault current limiters (SFCLs). Located at the output of AC/DC converters, the SFCL limits the current contribution from the AC grid in case of DC fault. With this approach, the fault clearing time constraint is relieved allowing the use of mechanical DC circuit breakers for fault current interruption. Furthermore, the breaking capability and energy dissipation requirements of the breaker are greatly reduced. To achieve a fast restoration of the DC grid, a redundant SFCL is introduced in parallel to those in operation, bypassing them when the fault is effectively suppressed. In addition, primary and back‐up protection schemes are described and tested using a three‐terminal bipolar high voltage direct current (HVDC) grid based on half‐bridge modular multilevel converters and cable transmission. Simulations are implemented in EMTP‐RV® to analyse and discuss performances of the proposed fault clearing strategy.
Possible ~1 hour quasi-periodic oscillation in narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy MCG–06–30–15
Authors: Gupta Alok C. , Tripathi Ashutosh , Wiita Paul J. , Gu Minfeng , Bambi Cosimo , Ho Luis C.
Published: July 2018

We found a possible ~1 h quasi-periodic oscillation (QPO) in a ~55 ks X-ray observation of the narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy MCG–06–30–15 made with the XMM-Newton EPIC/pn detector in the energy range 0.3–10 keV. We identify a total modulation of ~16% in the light curve and find a ≃3670 s quasi-period using Lomb-Scargle periodogram (LSP) and weighted wavelet Z-transform (WWZ) techniques. Our analyses of eight light curves of MCG–06–30–15, indicated the possible presence of an oscillation during one of them. The LSP indicates a statistically significant (≃3σ) QPO detection. A WWZ analysis shows that the signal at this possible roughly 3670 s period is present, and rather persistent, throughout the observation; however, a signal around 8735 s is more persistent. We briefly discuss models that can produce X-ray QPOs with such periods in narrow line Seyfert 1 galaxies, as both other claimed QPO detections in this class of AGN had very similar periods.
Project PHaEDRA: Preserving Harvard’s Early Data and Research in Astronomy
Authors: Bouquin Daina , Frey Katie , McEachern Maria , Damon James , Guarracino Daniel , McGrath Alex , Henneken Edwin , Smith Zrull Lindsay
Published: July 2018

The staff of Wolbach Library, in collaboration with partners at both the Smith-sonian Institution and Harvard University, has begun a complex digitization and transcriptioneffort aimed at making a large collection of historical astronomy research more findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR). This collection of material was originally produced from the mid-18th century through the early 20th century by researchers at the Harvard College Observatory and was recently re-discovered in the HCO Plate Stacks holdings. The team of professionals supporting the effort to make this century and a half old science FAIR have developed a novel, distributed workflow to ensure that people can engage critically with this material to the fullest extent possible. The project’s workflow is guided by the collections as data imperative conceptual frameworks and is now being referred to as Project PHaEDRA, or Preserving Harvard’s Early Data and Research in Astronomy.
Novel analysis methods of dynamic properties for vehicle pantographs
Authors: Wilk Andrzej
Published: July 2018

Transmission of electrical energy from a catenary system to traction units must be safe and reliable especially for high speed trains. Modern pantographs have to meet these requirements. Pantographs are subjected to several forces acting on their structural elements. These forces come from pantograph drive, inertia forces, aerodynamic effects, vibration of traction units etc. Modern approach to static and dynamic analysis should take into account: mass distribution of particular parts, physical properties of used materials, kinematic joints character at mechanical nodes, nonlinear parameters of kinematic joints, defining different parametric waveforms of forces and torques, and numerical dynamic simulation coupled with FEM calculations. In this work methods for the formulation of the governing equations of motion are presented. Some of these methods are more suitable for automated computer implementation. The novel computer methods recommended for static and dynamic analysis of pantographs are presented. Possibilities of dynamic analysis using CAD and CAE computer software are described. Original results are also presented. Conclusions related to dynamic properties of pantographs are included. Chapter 2 presents the methods used for formulation of the equation of pantograph motion. Chapter 3 is devoted to modelling of forces in multibody systems. In chapter 4 the selected computer tools for dynamic analysis are described. Chapter 5 shows the possibility of FEM analysis coupled with dynamic simulation. In chapter 6 the summary of this work is presented.
An influence of a complex modernization of the DC traction power supply on the parameters of an electric power system
Authors: Wojciechowski Jerzy , Lorek Krzysztof , Nowakowski Waldemar
Published: July 2018

Urban and suburban public transport constitute basics of functioning of modern, urbanized metropolises. It is a comfortable, economic and ecological means of transportation. Thus, a stable and fast growth of this solution. One of its components is the power supply system. It should allow functioning of the whole transportation system, maintaining the following criteria: energy efficiency and modernity. These criteria have contributed to creation and modernization of power supply systems. Where it comes to DC systems, such an investment includes: replacing 6-pulse rectifiers with 12-pulse rectifiers and raising rated supply voltage. In this article, the authors have presented research results, based on measurements of electrical energy parameters before and after a modernization of a suburban transportation traction system. These parameters have been divided into two groups. The first consists of parameters mentioned in the EN50160 norm. Another group consists of parameters not mentioned in the norm. What has been presented are waveforms and graphs showing these parameters. In the final part of the article a discussion on reasonability of introducing new, modernized traction power supply system for suburban transportation has been performed.
Electromagnetic processes of charging of on-board supercapacitor storage system during the regenerative braking mode of DC electric rolling stock with series-wound DC motors
Authors: Nikitenko Anatolii
Published: July 2018

The paper is dedicated to the task of improving of regenerative braking of a DC train with the series-wound DC traction motors. It is proposed the schematic solution for the trains with DC motors, which is based on the storing of recovered energy by the on-board supercapacitor storage system and extending the speed range of regenerative braking. The scheme is described by expressions which allowed to build the time dependences of main values. In addition, the experimental researches with the multiple-unit train were performed to find initial data for calculations and verification the results. The transient processes of charging are analyses for different cases of storage capacitances, residual voltages and initial speed of braking. It was proved, that the scheme allows to increase the value of recovered energy up to 40%, but its value strongly depends on the initial conditions and parameters of the system.
Energy storage system in traction vehicle
Authors: Wieczorek Maciej , Lewandowski Mirosław
Published: July 2018

The paper compares three different types of energy storage system (ESS) in a tramway. It was assumed that the tram has to travel without catenary for 5 km. Two homogeneous energy storage systems were designed to provide energy for the ride: the first made of lithium-ion batteries and the second made of supercapacitors. The third solution is a hybrid ESS (HESS) composed of both of the aforementioned technologies. The comparison was made in terms of weight, price and power consumption when driving with and without a catenary. Using a well-fitted energy management strategy, 50% lower HESS mass was achieved compared to the homogeneous ESSes. The estimated price of the HESS is 29% lower than the battery ESS and 59% from the supercapacitor ESS. A comparison of the energy consumption of the tram with and without the ESS is also presented, depending on the amount of energy absorbed by other vehicles on the same power section. It follows that the use of the ESS allows for significant energy savings for driving with the catenary.
Life cycle cost as a criterion in purchase of rolling stock
Authors: Raczyński Jan
Published: July 2018

The key parameter in assessing the economic viability of purchasing and operating rolling stock is the total cost incurred by the ordering party, starting from the preparation of the rolling stock purchase plan to the end of its operation, including its disposal. The methodology for calculating these life cycle costs (LCCs) has been developed especially in recent years based on the experience of the next-generation vehicle deployment. In Poland first vehicles purchase using the LCC method was carried out in few recent years - by PKP Intercity and by Lodz Agglomeration Railway. Despite the use of simplified criteria for the economic efficiency of vehicles, optimal offers were selected. This article describes examples of rolling stock purchase based on the low cost of life of the vehicle and the economic and operational results that have been achieved after several years of operation. Further possibilities for optimizing these costs were also indicated. Examples showing the proportion between the cost of vehicle purchase, its technical maintenance and its operation, where the electricity consumption is the main factor are given.
Stationary energy storage system in a 3 kV DC – the conception comparison
Authors: Jefimowski Włodzimierz
Published: July 2018

The paper presents the research results of a few different conception of stationary energy storage system in a 3 kV DC system. The most attention is focused on the comparison between two topologies of the ESS: energy storage system with supercapacitor and with supercapacitor and LFP battery. The variants are compared in terms of energy saving and peak power demand reduction. The implementation of ESS with SC results the decrease of active energy drawn from traction substation. Meanwhile the implementation of ESS with SC and LFP battery leads to achieving of two aims - decreasing of active energy consumption by maximization of regenerative energy utilization and reduction of 15 - min. peak power demand of traction substation.
Conditions for using of trams on railway tracks sections in agglomeration communication in Poland
Authors: Durzyński Zbigniew , Pachołek Marta , Cichy Rafał
Published: July 2018

At the beginning the justification for searching for an effective, energy-efficient mass communication system in agglomerations in Poland are described. One way of relieving the density of the means of communication on the streets of Polish cities is to extend the offer of tram transport by the partial use of railway networks. The literature is reviewed for already implemented two-system tram-train systems and presented solutions for a such tram system in Europe. It is described the technical and organizational problems related to implement the tram-train vehicle in Poland. How-ever, it is important to overcome the formal barriers related to the authorization of vehicle for placing in tram and railway service (new technical standards for this type vehicle). In order to indicate the scope of technical problems, in the further part of this paper it is made the comparisons by analysing the current regulations and standards of basic requirements for tram and passenger railway vehicle. At the end of paper, alternative measures are proposed to introduce tramtrain vehicles. That will influence the attractiveness of public transport in urban agglomerations.
Power supply of trams in Poland – current state and perspectives of development
Authors: Szeląg Adam , Maciołek Tadeusz
Published: July 2018

Sustainable development of agglomerations requires efficient and ecological transport systems, i.e. electrified transport. In order to achieve the required results of operation of electrified urban transport, especially energy efficiency, it is required to closely examine the existing power supply systems. The biggest share of urban traction systems in Poland belongs to tram systems (in 15 agglomerations and cities). Recent years have witnessed an increased interest in modernisation of the existing lines and construction of new ones. Enhancement of RAMS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety) and energy efficiency of supply systems is a necessary requirement, due to fact that new, modern tram rolling stock with higher power poses significant challenge for the existing, in many systems, old power supply infrastructure. Furthermore, due to low driving-range of autonomous vehicles equipped with batteries and a need of frequent charging of storage devices, catenary supplied urban transport will dominate in the areas of its use. In addition, it might be helpful in developing hybrid vehicles supplied both from a catenary and from energy storage devices (charged during run under catenary) on sections without catenary. The paper presents parameters characterizing tram power supply systems in Poland. The analyses carried out for many tram lines have shown that even at relatively low investments for modernisation of the tram power supply system, it is possible to obtain fast return (energy saving due to improvement of efficiency of recuperation and the resulting reduction of CO2emission). Other advantages of modernisations include: enhancement of standards in supply of modern trams with higher power and improvement of reliability due to the reduced risk of disturbances and damages.