bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solution structure of extracellular loop of human β4 subunit of BK channel and its biological implication on ChTX sensitivity
Authors: Wang Yanting , Lan Wenxian , Yan Zhenzhen , Gao Jing , Liu Xinlian , Wang Sheng , Guo Xiying , Wang Chunxi , Zhou Hu , Ding Jiuping , Cao Chunyang
Published: March 2018

Large-conductance Ca2+- and voltage-dependent K+ (BK) channels display diverse biological functions while their pore-forming α subunit is coded by a single Slo1 gene. The variety of BK channels is correlated with the effects of BKα coexpression with auxiliary β (β1-β4) subunits, as well as newly defined γ subunits. Charybdotoxin (ChTX) blocks BK channel through physically occluding the K+-conduction pore. Human brain enriched β4 subunit (hβ4) alters the conductance-voltage curve, slows activation and deactivation time courses of BK channels. Its extracellular loop (hβ4-loop) specifically impedes ChTX to bind BK channel pore. However, the structure of β4 subunit’s extracellular loop and the molecular mechanism for gating kinetics, toxin sensitivity of BK channels regulated by β4 are still unclear. To address them, here, we first identified four disulfide bonds in hβ4-loop by mass spectroscopy and NMR techniques. Then we determined its three-dimensional solution structure, performed NMR titration and electrophysiological analysis, and found that residue Asn123 of β4 subunit regulated the gating and pharmacological characteristics of BK channel. Finally, by constructing structure models of BKα/β4 and thermodynamic double-mutant cycle analysis, we proposed that BKα subunit might interact with β4 subunit through the conserved residue Glu264(BKα) coupling with residue Asn123(β4).
Carbamazepine, a beta-cell protecting drug, reduces type 1 diabetes incidence in NOD mice
Authors: Lee Jason T. C. , Shanina Iryna , Chu Yung Ning , Horwitz Marc S. , Johnson James D.
Published: March 2018

Pancreatic beta-cells are selectively destroyed by the host immune system in type 1 diabetes. Thus, drugs that preserve beta-cell mass and/or function have the potential to prevent or slow the progression of this disease. We recently reported that the use-dependent sodium channel blocker, carbamazepine, protects beta-cells from inflammatory cytokines in vitro. Here, we tested the effects of carbamazepine treatment in female non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice by supplementing LabDiet 5053 with 0.5% w/w carbamazepine to achieve serum carbamazepine levels of 14.98 ± 3.19 µM. Remarkably, diabetes incidence over 25 weeks, as determined by fasting blood glucose, was ~50% lower in carbamazepine treated animals. Partial protection from diabetes in carbamazepine-fed NOD mice was also associated with improved glucose tolerance at 6 weeks of age, prior to the onset of diabetes in our colony. Less insulitis was detected in carbamazepine treated NOD mice at 6 weeks of age, but we did not observe differences in CD4+ and CD8+ T cell composition in the pancreatic lymph node, as well as circulating markers of inflammation. Taken together, our results demonstrate that carbamazepine reduces the development of type 1 diabetes in NOD mice by maintaining functional beta-cell mass.
Mast Cells Exhibiting Strong Cytoplasmic Staining for IgE and High Affinity IgE Receptor are Increased in IgG4-Related Disease
Authors: Nishida Kenji , Gion Yuka , Takeuchi Mai , Tanaka Takehiro , Kataoka Tatsuki R. , Yoshino Tadashi , Sato Yasuharu
Published: March 2018

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease is characterized by elevated serum IgG4 levels and increased numbers of IgG4-positive cells. However, its pathogenesis is not fully understood. We previously suggested that mast cells may play an important role in IgG4-related disease. In this study, we confirmed the characteristics of mast cells in IgG4-related lymphadenopathy by using immunohistochemistry and dual immunofluorescence. We analyzed 23 cases of IgG4-related lymphadenopathy and compared them with 23 cases of non-specific lymphoid hyperplasia. The majority of patients with IgG4-related lymphadenopathy had cervical lesions with involvement of other organs. Immunohistologically, mast cells with strong cytoplasmic staining for immunoglobulin E and high affinity immunoglobulin E receptor were significantly increased in IgG4-related lymphadenopathy as compared to those in non-specific lymphoid hyperplasia (mean: 3.83 ± 3.99 cells per high power field and 7.14 ± 8.21 cells per high power field, respectively; P = 0.007 and P = 0.011). In addition, dual immunofluorescence assay showed that immunoglobulin E and high affinity immunoglobulin E receptor staining exhibited a cytoplasmic granular pattern in IgG4-related lymphadenopathy, suggesting internalization of the antibodies and receptors. Our findings showed that mast cell activation might be involved in the pathogenesis of IgG4-related disease.
Author Correction: The impact of the introduction of new recognition criteria for overwork-related cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: a cross-country comparison
Authors: Lin Ro-Ting , Lin Cheng-Kuan , Christiani David C. , Kawachi Ichiro , Cheng Yawen , Verguet Stéphane , Jong Simcha
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Resolving the complete genome of Kuenenia stuttgartiensis from a membrane bioreactor enrichment using Single-Molecule Real-Time sequencing
Authors: Frank Jeroen , Lücker Sebastian , Vossen Rolf H. A. M. , Jetten Mike S. M. , Hall Richard J. , Op den Camp Huub J. M. , Anvar Seyed Yahya
Published: March 2018

Anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing (anammox) bacteria are a group of strictly anaerobic chemolithoautotrophic microorganisms. They are capable of oxidizing ammonium to nitrogen gas using nitrite as a terminal electron acceptor, thereby facilitating the release of fixed nitrogen into the atmosphere. The anammox process is thought to exert a profound impact on the global nitrogen cycle and has been harnessed as an environment-friendly method for nitrogen removal from wastewater. In this study, we present the first closed genome sequence of an anammox bacterium, Kuenenia stuttgartiensis MBR1. It was obtained through Single-Molecule Real-Time (SMRT) sequencing of an enrichment culture constituting a mixture of at least two highly similar Kuenenia strains. The genome of the novel MBR1 strain is different from the previously reported Kuenenia KUST reference genome as it contains numerous structural variations and unique genomic regions. We find new proteins, such as a type 3b (sulf)hydrogenase and an additional copy of the hydrazine synthase gene cluster. Moreover, multiple copies of ammonium transporters and proteins regulating nitrogen uptake were identified, suggesting functional differences in metabolism. This assembly, including the genome-wide methylation profile, provides a new foundation for comparative and functional studies aiming to elucidate the biochemical and metabolic processes of these organisms.
The greening of Northwest Indian subcontinent and reduction of dust abundance resulting from Indian summer monsoon revival
Authors: Jin Qinjian , Wang Chien
Published: March 2018

The trends of both rainfall and circulation strength of the Indian summer monsoon has been reviving since 2002. Here, using observational data, we demonstrate a statistically significant greening over the Northwest Indian Subcontinent and a consequent decline in dust abundance due to the monsoon revival. The enhanced monsoonal rainfall causes an increase in soil moisture, which results in a significant greening in the Northwest Indian Subcontinent. These increases in rainfall, soil moisture, and vegetation together lead to a substantial reduction of the dust abundance in this region, especially the Thar Desert, as shown by a negative trend in satellite-retrieved aerosol optical depth. The monsoonal rainfall-induced trends in vegetation growth and dust abundance in the Northwest Indian Subcontinent have important implications for agriculture production and air quality given the projected increases and a westward expansion of the global summer monsoon rainfall at the end of this century.
Author Correction: Changes in regional heatwave characteristics as a function of increasing global temperature
Authors: Perkins-Kirkpatrick S. E. , Gibson P. B.
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Expressions of loss predict aggressive comments on Twitter among gang-involved youth in Chicago
Authors: Patton Desmond Upton , Rambow Owen , Auerbach Jonathan , Li Kevin , Frey William
Published: March 2018

Recent studies suggest social media shapes the transmission of firearm violence in high-poverty, urban neighborhoods. However, the exact pathways by which content on social media becomes threatening has not been studied. We consider a dataset of tweets by gang-involved Chicago youth that are coded for expressions of aggression and/or loss. Using a permutation test and mixed-effects log linear regression, we find that aggression and loss tweets do not occur randomly, and furthermore that in a 2-day window after loss expressions we find an increase in aggressive tweets. We discuss implications for intervention.
Acid- and reduction-sensitive micelles for improving the drug delivery efficacy for pancreatic cancer therapy
Authors: Wang Pu , Wang Jinxiu , Tan Haowen , Weng Shanfan , Cheng Liying , Zhou Zhipeng , Wen Shu
Published: March 2018

One of the major challenges in anticancer therapy is the poor penetration of anticancer drugs into tumors, especially in solid tumors, resulting in decreased therapeutic efficacy in vivo.
A genetically encoded 19F NMR probe for lysine acetylation
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhou Qing , Yang Guiwen , An Liguo , Li Fahui , Wang Jiangyun
Published: March 2018

An acetyllysine mimic (TFAcK) has been exploited for detecting the conformational changes of acetylated p53–protein/DNA interactions by genetic code expansion and 19F NMR.
Shining light on the antenna chromophore in lanthanide based dyes
Authors: Junker Anne Kathrine R. , Hill Leila R. , Thompson Amber L. , Faulkner Stephen , Sørensen Thomas Just
Published: March 2018

Lanthanide based molecular probes for bioimaging rely on the antenna effect; here we start unravelling the details of sensitized lanthanide luminescence.
Block copolymer derived 3-D interpenetrating multifunctional gyroidal nanohybrids for electrical energy storage
Authors: Werner J. G. , Rodríguez-Calero G. G. , Abruña H. D. , Wiesner U.
Published: March 2018

All necessary battery components are synthesized within a three-dimensionally periodic, co-continuous nanostructure and the first reversible charge–discharge characteristics are demonstrated.
Dietary supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich oils protects against visible-light-induced retinal damagein vivo
Authors: Deng Qianchun , Wang Yong , Wang Chengtao , Ji Baoping , Cong Renhuai , Zhao Lei , Chen Peng , Zang Xixi , Lu Feng , Han Fei , Huang Fenghong
Published: March 2018

Dietary ω-3 PUFA-rich oils protect against visible-light-induced retinal damage.
Synthesis of tetrahydro-1H-indolo[2,3-b]pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinolonesviaintramolecular oxidative ring rearrangement of tetrahydro-β-carbolines and their biological evaluation
Authors: Bathula Chandramohan , Roma-Rodrigues Catarina , Chauhan Jyoti , Fernandes Alexandra R. , Sen Subhabrata
Published: March 2018

Tetrahydro-1H-indolo[2,3-b]pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinolones are synthesizedviaa unique intramolecular oxidative ring rearrangement.
Rapid preparation of self-assembled CdTe quantum dots used for sensing of DNA in urine
Authors: Nejdl Lukas , Zelnickova Jaroslava , Vaneckova Tereza , Hynek David , Adam Vojtech , Vaculovicova Marketa
Published: March 2018

In this article, the authors report a systematic study of the self-assembly of CdTe quantum dots (QDs) stabilized by mercaptosuccinic acid (MSA) at laboratory temperature (25 °C) or after thermal treatment (90 °C).
Utilization of the fermentation residues of validamycin as a potential platform for seed treatment
Authors: Zhang Bo , Liao Shaowei , Ren Tianrui
Published: March 2018

Validamycin fermentation residue (VFR) is used as a pesticide carrier for seed treatment (FS). FS coated wheat seeds have higher germination and antibacterial rates and better protection against wheat powdery mildew than those treated with Raxil.
Numbers of cyanovinyl substitutes and their effect on phenothiazine based organic dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Chen Yung-Chung , Kuo Yuan-Tsung , Liang Chia-Jung
Published: March 2018

Phenothiazine based dyes (OMS1–3), comprising different conjugation lengths, numbers of electron deficient (cyanovinyl) moieties have been synthesized. OMS3 dye has two cyanovinyl moieties between phenothiazine core exhibits the best cell performance at 4.00%.
Template-free synthesis of vanadium sesquioxide (V2O3) nanosheets and their room-temperature sensing performance
Authors: Mounasamy Veena , Mani Ganesh Kumar , Ponnusamy Dhivya , Tsuchiya Kazuyoshi , Prasad Arun K. , Madanagurusamy Sridharan
Published: March 2018

Single-step growth of V2O3 nanosheets on glass substrates has been established for room-temperature ammonia sensing.
Ultrathin NiCo2Pxnanosheets strongly coupled with CNTs as efficient and robust electrocatalysts for overall water splitting
Authors: Huang Can , Ouyang Ting , Zou Ying , Li Nan , Liu Zhao-Qing
Published: March 2018

Optimized active Ni–Co bimetallic phosphide are decorated on high conductive carbon nanotubes to serve as the efficient overall water splitting catalyst. Benefiting from cooperation between synergy effects and multi-level structure, NiCo2Px/CNTs is capable of constituting water electrolyzer used as both anode and cathode.
Magnetic wood by in situ synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles via a microwave-assisted route
Authors: Segmehl Jana S. , Laromaine Anna , Keplinger Tobias , May-Masnou Anna , Burgert Ingo , Roig Anna
Published: March 2018

We present a microwave-assisted synthesis of superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SPIONs) for the hybridization and functionalization of wood.
Dynamic alterations of hepatocellular function by on-demand elasticity and roughness modulation
Authors: Uto K. , Aoyagi T. , DeForest C. A. , Ebara M.
Published: March 2018

Temporal elasticity and roughness modulation with temperature-responsive poly(ε-caprolactone) induced the alternation of hepatocellular function dynamically.
A porous triptycene-based covalent polymer stabilized binary metal sulfide for enhanced hydrogen evolution under visible light
Authors: Liang Qian , Cui Sainan , Xu Song , Yao Chao , MacLachlan Mark J. , Li Zhongyu
Published: March 2018

A novel triptycene-based covalent polymer (TCP) with a high surface area was constructed through the Suzuki coupling reaction.
PtAl truncated octahedron nanocrystals for improved formic acid electrooxidation
Authors: Xiong Yu , Xin Pingyu , Chen Wenxing , Wang Yu , Zhang Shaolong , Ren Hanlin , Rong Hongpan , Zheng Xusheng , Chen Chen , Peng Qing , Wang Dingsheng , Li Yadong
Published: March 2018

We prepared well-defined PtAl truncated octahedron alloy nanocrystals with a large density of surface defects, which exhibit enhanced electroactivity in FOR.
Ultrasmall Ru2P nanoparticles on graphene: a highly efficient hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalyst in both acidic and alkaline media
Authors: Liu Tingting , Wang Shuo , Zhang Qiuju , Chen Liang , Hu Weihua , Li Chang Ming
Published: March 2018

A Pt-free catalyst of ultrasmall Ru2P nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (Ru2P/RGO-20) shows remarkable HER catalytic activity under acidic and alkaline conditions, respectively, both superior to those of commercial Pt/C.
Methane activation over a boron nitride catalyst driven by in situ formed molecular water
Authors: Wang Yang , Zhao Liyang , Shi Lei , Sheng Jian , Zhang Weiping , Cao Xiao-Ming , Hu Peijun , Lu An-Hui
Published: March 2018

Boron nitride converts methane to valuable chemicals through a H2O-assisted O2 and CH4 synergetic mutual activation mechanism.
N- and S-donor leaving groups in triazole-based ruthena(ii)cycles: potent anticancer activity, selective activation, and mode of action studies
Authors: Riedl Christoph A. , Hejl Michaela , Klose Matthias H. M. , Roller Alexander , Jakupec Michael A. , Kandioller Wolfgang , Keppler Bernhard K.
Published: March 2018

The functionalization of cycloruthenated triazole arene complexes with N- or S-donors affords pH or redox-activatable complexes with high cytotoxic activities.
Predicting an unconventional facile route to metallaanthracenes
Authors: An Ke , Zhu Jun
Published: March 2018

DFT calculations reveal an unconventional facile route to metallaanthracenes caused by stabilisation of phosphonium substituents.
Shear dependent red blood cell adhesion in microscale flow
Authors: Kucukal Erdem , Little Jane A. , Gurkan Umut A.
Published: March 2018

Shear dependent adhesion of red blood cells is shown using a shear gradient microfluidic system that mimics human microvasculature.
Cardiac myoglobin participates in the metabolic pathway of selenium in rats
Authors: Hori Eriko , Yoshida Sakura , Fuchigami Takeshi , Haratake Mamoru , Nakayama Morio
Published: March 2018

We demonstrated that cardiac myoglobin participates in the selenium metabolism in rat hearts.
Physical stimuli-responsive liposomes and polymersomes as drug delivery vehicles based on phase transitions in the membrane
Authors: Deng Yangwei , Ling Jun , Li Min-Hui
Published: March 2018

Crystalline and liquid crystalline phases in the membrane lead to intriguing morphologies of vesicles for drug release upon physical stimulation.
Toward the oxidative deconstruction of lignin: oxidation of β-1 and β-5 linkages
Authors: Fang Zhen , Meier Mark S.
Published: March 2018

Production of monomers and other products from the oxidation of β-1 and β-5 lignin models.
Concerning the mechanism of iodine(iii)-mediated oxidative dearomatization of phenols
Authors: Harned Andrew M.
Published: March 2018

DFT calculations were performed in order to investigate two mechanistic pathways for the iodine(iii)-mediated oxidative dearomatization of phenols.
Co-initiated hyperbranched-polydendron building blocks for the direct nanoprecipitation of dendron-directed patchy particles with heterogeneous surface functionality
Authors: Hern F. Y. , Hill A. , Owen A. , Rannard S. P.
Published: March 2018

A synthetic strategy branched polymer building blocks that allow the rapid construction of patchy nanoparticles is presented. Hyperbranched polydendrons with mixtures of PEG and thiol-functional dendrons nanoprecipitate to form isolated zones that are imaged with gold nanoparticles.
Theoretical study on the mechanism and enantioselectivity of NHC-catalyzed intramolecular SN2′ nucleophilic substitution: what are the roles of NHC and DBU?
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Xu Hao , Bai Huining , Wei Donghui , Zhu Yanyan , Zhang Wenjing
Published: March 2018

A possible catalytic mechanism was proposed and studied in very detail by using the DFT method for a recently reported enantioselective intramolecular SN2′ substitution of aldehydes with trisubstituted allylic bromides.
Effect of conjugation and aromaticity of 3,6 di-substituted carbazoles on triplet energy and the implication of triplet energy in multiple-cyclic aromatic compounds
Authors: Woon Kai Lin , Ariffin Azhar , Ho Kar Wei , Chen Show-An
Published: March 2018

By alternating high aromaticity and reduced aromaticity in an extended fused π-system, a high triplet energy can be obtained.
Understanding GPCR recognition and folding from NMR studies of fragments
Authors: Marino Jacopo , Walser Reto , Poms Martin , Zerbe Oliver
Published: March 2018

Cotranslational protein folding is a vectorial process, and for membrane proteins, N-terminal helical segments are the first that become available for membrane insertion. Here fragments corresponding to these segments are investigated by NMR.
Direct and indirect hyperpolarisation of amines using parahydrogen
Authors: Iali Wissam , Rayner Peter J. , Alshehri Adel , Holmes A. Jonathan. , Ruddlesden Amy J. , Duckett Simon B.
Published: March 2018

Para-hydrogen achieves the hyperpolarisation of amines via SABRE.
Protein surface functionalisation as a general strategy for facilitating biomimetic mineralisation of ZIF-8
Authors: Maddigan Natasha K. , Tarzia Andrew , Huang David M. , Sumby Christopher J. , Bell Stephen G. , Falcaro Paolo , Doonan Christian. J.
Published: March 2018

The surface charge and chemistry of a protein determines its ability to facilitate biomimetic mineralisation.
Examining the chemical and structural properties that influence the sensitivity of energetic nitrate esters
Authors: Manner Virginia W. , Cawkwell Marc J. , Kober Edward M. , Myers Thomas W. , Brown Geoff W. , Tian Hongzhao , Snyder Christopher J. , Perriot Romain , Preston Daniel N.
Published: March 2018

The sensitivity of explosives is controlled by factors that span from intrinsic chemical reactivity to mesoscale structure, and has been a topic of extensive study for over 50 years.
Rubber materials from elastomers and nanocellulose powders: filler dispersion and mechanical reinforcement
Authors: Fumagalli Matthieu , Berriot Julien , de Gaudemaris Benoit , Veyland Anne , Putaux Jean-Luc , Molina-Boisseau Sonia , Heux Laurent
Published: March 2018

Rubber materials with well-dispersed fillers and large mechanical reinforcement have been obtained by melt-processing a diene elastomer matrix and tailored nanocellulose powders.
Stable methylammonium-intercalated 1T′-MoS2 for efficient electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Kwak In Hye , Kwon Ik Seon , Abbas Hafiz Ghulam , Jung Gabin , Lee Yeron , Park Jeunghee , Kang Hong Seok
Published: March 2018

Methylammonium-intercalated 1T′-phase MoS2 layered structures exhibit excellent stability as well as high catalytic activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction.
An ultrastable Zr-MOF for fast capture and highly luminescence detection of Cr2O72− simultaneously in an aqueous phase
Authors: Sun Xiaodong , Yao Shuo , Yu Chengyang , Li Guanghua , Liu Chunming , Huo Qisheng , Liu Yunling
Published: March 2018

A porous Zr-MOFs (JLU-MOF50) with exceptional stabilities has been synthesized. As a dual functional material, JLU-MOF50 displays not only a high trapping capacity and an adsorption rate, but also effective detecting performance for Cr2O72− in the aqueous phase.
Effective strategies for long-cycle life lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: He Yibo , Chang Zhi , Wu Shichao , Zhou Haoshen
Published: March 2018

Various efficient strategies for prolonging the cycle life of lithium–sulfur batteries.
Macrocyclic triphenylamine-based push–pull type polymer memristive material: synthesis and characterization
Authors: Zhang Bin , Wang Cheng , Wang Luxin , Chen Yu
Published: March 2018

A new push–pull type conjugated polymer PFFMT-based electronic device with a configuration of Al/PFFMT/ITO shows an interesting history-dependent memristive switching performance.
High performance Al3Sc alloy doped Al3Sc–Sb2Te chalcogenides for phase change memory application
Authors: Zhang Sifan , Wu Liangcai , Song Wenxiong , Zhou Xilin , Song Zhitang , Shi Jianjun , Zhang Jing , Feng Songlin
Published: March 2018

An Al3Sc alloy doped Al3Sc–Sb2Te chalcogenide was put forward to avoid oxidation of pure Sc and enhance data retention ability.
Role of the potassium/lysine cationic center in catalysis and functional asymmetry in membrane-bound pyrophosphatases
Authors: Artukka Erika , Luoto Heidi H. , Baykov Alexander A. , Lahti Reijo , Malinen Anssi M.
Published: March 2018

Membrane-bound pyrophosphatases (mPPases), which couple pyrophosphate hydrolysis to transmembrane transport of H+ and/or Na+ ions, are divided into K+,Na+-independent, Na+-regulated, and K+-dependent families. The first two families include H+-transporting mPPases (H+-PPases), whereas the last family comprises one Na+-transporting, two Na+- and H+-transporting subfamilies (Na+-PPases and Na+,H+-PPases, respectively), and three H+-transporting subfamilies. Earlier studies of the few available model mPPases suggested that K+ binds to a site located adjacent to the pyrophosphate-binding site, but is substituted by the ε-amino group of an evolutionarily acquired lysine residue in the K+-independent mPPases. Here, we performed a systematic analysis of the K+/Lys cationic center across all mPPase subfamilies. An Ala → Lys replacement in K+-dependent mPPases abolished the K+ dependence of hydrolysis and transport activities and decreased these activities close to the level (4–7%) observed for wild-type enzymes in the absence of monovalent cations. In contrast, a Lys → Ala replacement in K+,Na+-independent mPPases conferred partial K+ dependence on the enzyme by unmasking an otherwise conserved K+-binding site. Na+ could partially replace K+ as an activator of K+-dependent mPPases and the Lys → Ala variants of K+,Na+-independent mPPases. Finally, we found that all mPPases were inhibited by excess substrate, suggesting strong negative co-operativity of active site functioning in these homodimeric enzymes; moreover, the K+/Lys center was identified as part of the mechanism underlying this effect. These findings suggest that the mPPase homodimer possesses an asymmetry of active site performance that may be an ancient prototype of the rotational binding-change mechanism of F-type ATPases.
Modified turn algorithm based ground vehicle collision avoidance
Authors: Kim Y.H. , Park J.B. , Yoon T.S.
Published: March 2018

A modified turn algorithm based novel collision avoidance method for ground vehicles is proposed. Given two points in the plane, the proposed algorithm provides an effective path for collision avoidance in terms of curvature change. As this method alleviates sudden curvature changes and side‐slip of the vehicle, it improves the overall driving performance. Further, the non‐linear estimator for time‐to‐collision is introduced in order to improve the performance of collision avoidance. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed algorithm over the existing lane change algorithm.
Optimal weighted K‐nearest neighbour algorithm for wireless sensor network fingerprint localisation in noisy environment
Authors: Fang Xuming , Jiang Zonghua , Nan Lei , Chen Lijun
Published: March 2018

The weighted K‐nearest neighbour (WKNN) algorithm is widely applied to fingerprint positioning. However, the node position estimated by the WKNN algorithm is not optimal in a noisy environment. To obtain the optimised node location estimate, the authors propose an optimal WKNN (OWKNN) algorithm for wireless sensor network (WSN) fingerprint localisation in a noisy environment. The proposed OWKNN algorithm is composed of an adaptive Kalman filter (AKF) and a memetic algorithm (MA). First, the AKF is utilised to reduce the measurement noise of the received signal strength indication (RSSI) between the nodes in the WSN. Then, the MA is employed to optimise the calibration point weight for estimating the position of a target node in the WSN according to the filtered RSSI and a calibrated radio map. Finally, an optimal node location estimate is achieved based on the optimised weight. The extensive experimental results reveal that the localisation accuracy of the proposed algorithm is at least ∼50% higher than those of the state‐of‐the‐art fingerprint localisation algorithms regardless of the placement of the target node, number of beacon nodes, and size of the calibration cell.
Channel model proposal for indoor relay‐assisted power line communications
Authors: Wu Xiaolin , Zhu Bin , Rong Yue
Published: March 2018

Due to its tree‐like topology, the point‐to‐point (P2P) indoor power line communication (PLC) channel exhibits a similar broadcasting property as the wireless propagation channel shows. However, after relay nodes are introduced, the relay‐assisted PLC (RaPLC) channel shows some notable differences compared with its wireless counterpart. A lot of results about the relay‐assisted wireless channel can be found in the literature, but the work of modelling RaPLC channel has rarely been discussed in detail. As the first attempt to fill this gap, we apply the ABCD method to compute the channel transfer function (CTF) of the RaPLC channel. It has been clarified that, in general, the CTF of RaPLC channel cannot be obtained as a cascade of two independent P2P PLC sub‐channels located on two sides of the relay node. Also, it is shown that the challenge of generating CTF of the RaPLC channel can be transformed into a group of equivalent P2P PLC channel modelling tasks. Under the time‐division duplexing constraint, the relay node changes its working mode from the receiving phase to the transmitting phase, which shows that the RaPLC channel is abruptly time‐varying in nature. Following the hybrid bottom‐up approach, a statistical channel model with a simple six‐segment indoor power grid topology has been developed for simulation. Practical measurements and numerical examples verify our results.
Equivalent convex optimisation approach for green cognitive radio‐based cooperative networks
Authors: Soleimanpour‐moghadam Mohadese , Esmaeili Shima , Talebi Siamak
Published: March 2018

Ensuring total rate maximisation whilst keeping Greenhouse gas emission (GHGE) at a minimum in green cooperative cognitive radio networks is key to achieving maximum network quality. This study employs the multi‐objective lexicographic algorithm to a proposed multi‐objective optimisation problem scheme to deal with these conflicting objectives through two consecutive steps. The challenge posed by maximum throughput – a complex non‐convex optimisation problem – is first resolved through a mathematical manipulation resulting in a fractional programming model which is then converted to its simplified convex programming equivalent by applying the Charnes–Cooper transformation. Next, the GHGE minimisation issue is tackled effectively by applying a convex programming. Simulation results confirm that the proposed approach offers superior performance compared to well‐known schemes in terms of throughput gain and emission quality.
Joint DOD and DOA estimation for bistatic multiple‐input multiple‐output radar target discrimination based on improved unitary ESPRIT method
Authors: Gong Shu , Xiong Hailiang , Peng Meixuan , Ding Xuewen , Tang Huaibin
Published: March 2018

Target position estimation of radar system has attracted much attention. Researchers have proposed a variety of joint direction‐of‐departure (DOD) and direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation algorithms over the last few decades for this well‐known problem. However, traditional estimation algorithms require a pairing process between the DOD and DOA estimation. In this study, the authors propose an improved unitary estimation of signal parameters via rotational invariance technique (ESPRIT) algorithm for joint DOD and DOA estimation without a pairing operation. The waveforms are transmitted by an array with M sensors and received by two detached sub‐arrays with and sensors, respectively. Specifically, the proposed algorithm eliminates a pairing process via sharing the eigenvectors of DOD and DOA. Theoretical derivation demonstrates that the proposed algorithm requires less computational complexity than two‐dimensional multiple signal classification (MUSIC), reduced‐dimension MUSIC, and ESPRIT. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively enhance the accuracy of identifying and locating targets for the bistatic multiple‐input multiple‐output radar system.
Spectral efficiency analysis and pilot reuse factor optimisation for multi‐cell massive SC‐SM MIMO
Authors: Sun Yue , Wang Jintao , He Longzhuang , Pan Changyong , Ai Bo , Song Jian
Published: March 2018

As a combination of spatial modulation (SM) system and massive multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) system, massive SM aided MIMO (SM‐MIMO) system is recently proposed. In broadband scenarios, single‐carrier (SC) modulation is introduced to massive SM‐MIMO system, thus massive SC‐SM MIMO system is proposed for uplink multi‐user transmission over frequency‐selective fading channels. In this study, the uplink spectral efficiency (SE) of multi‐cell massive SC‐SM MIMO system is analysed, meanwhile the pilot contamination effect is taken into consideration. A tight SE lower bound of multi‐cell massive SC‐SM MIMO system is proposed with maximum ratio (MR) combining, which also takes into account the imperfect channel estimation, transmit antenna correlation and path loss. The tightness of the authors' proposed closed‐form SE lower bound is shown via simulation results. The optimal pilot reuse factor can be determined with different system configurations by simulations, and the pilot reuse factor that is larger than one is more suitable for less TAs and user equipments.
Multi‐level construction of polar‐coded single carrier‐FDMA based on MIMO antennas for coded cooperative wireless communication
Authors: Umar Rahim , Yang Fengfan , Xu HongJun , Mughal Shoaib
Published: March 2018

A multi‐level construction of polar‐coded single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC‐FDMA) with multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antennas scheme is proposed and its bit error rate performance over frequency selective Rayleigh fading channels has been evaluated. The existence of a parallel split in the design of multi‐level construction of polar code has enabled the authors to effectively extend the proposed scheme in coded cooperative scenarios. As in coded cooperation communication, the relay plays a crucial role in the design of communication system; therefore, an efficient selection criterion for reinforcing the bad channels has been adopted at the relay node. Moreover, the joint successive cancellation decoding is employed at the destination node. To check the efficacy in the performance of the proposed coded cooperative scheme, the authors have also upgraded the traditional nested polar‐coded cooperative scheme in the context of SC‐FDMA with MIMO antennas as a useful benchmark. Monte Carlo simulated results revealed that the proposed coded cooperative scheme have triumphed the conventional nested polar coded cooperative scheme based on SC‐FDMA system by gain of 0.5 dB under identical conditions. Moreover, the proposed cooperative schemes outperform their corresponding non‐cooperative counterpart schemes by the gain of 1 dB under identical conditions.
Modelling of interior‐mount LSPMSM under asymmetrical stator winding
Authors: Maraaba Luqman , Al‐Hamouz Zakariya , Milhem Abdulaziz , Abido Mohammad
Published: March 2018

Reliable and safe operation of electric motors in the industry is highly desirable. Accurate modelling is the first step in developing a diagnostic tool for different types of failures. This study presents a generalised dq‐model for interior‐mount line start permanent magnet synchronous motors under asymmetrical stator phase's windings. The presented dq‐model has been derived using winding theorem. Implementation and simulation of the derived dq‐model has been done using MATLAB/SIMULINK software. For validation purposes, interior‐mount line start permanent magnet synchronous motor (LSPMSM) under this fault condition is implemented using the JMAGTM‐finite‐element‐based software. The performance of a 1‐hp interior‐mount LSPMSM motor under different loading levels and stator winding asymmetric conditions has been investigated using the simulated MATLAB and JMAG models. Simulation results of MATLAB and JMAG are in very good agreement and show that under asymmetrical stator winding condition, oscillations are obvious in the torque characteristics of the motor. In addition, the torque experience high oscillations at a steady state due to the asymmetry between stator phases. Finally, investigating torque frequency spectrum showed that they can be good signatures in diagnosing asymmetrical stator winding faults in interior‐mount LSPMSM.
Overview of novel magnetically geared machines with partitioned stators
Authors: Zhu Zi Qiang
Published: March 2018

This study overviews recent development of a new class of magnetically geared machine topologies, i.e. partitioned stator (PS) machines. They are developed from magnetic gears and magnetically geared machines, as well as stator permanent magnet (PM) machines (switched flux, flux reversal, and doubly saliency PM), wound field, or hybrid PM and field winding machines. Based on the operating principle, i.e. magnetic gearing effect/air‐gap field modulation and flux switching by the salient rotor iron poles, various PS machine topologies are developed. All have features of two stators, two air‐gaps, and one segmented ferromagnetic rotor identical to a magnetic gear's modulating rotor. Their inherent relationships are revealed, while their electromagnetic performance is compared. Both PM and wound field PS machines are discussed, together with hybrid excited PS‐PM machines and Vernier machines. It shows that all of these PS machines share the same torque production principle and the differences are mainly in PM configurations and relative positions of two stators. All PS machines have higher torque density per copper loss compared with their counterparts of single‐stator machines. PS switched flux PM machines can produce the highest torque density per copper loss.
The mass and age of the first SONG target: the red giant 46 LMi
Authors: Frandsen S. , Fredslund Andersen M. , Brogaard K. , Jiang C. , Arentoft T. , Grundahl F. , Kjeldsen H. , Christensen-Dalsgaard J. , Weiss E. , Pallé P. , Antoci V. , Kjærgaard P. , Sørensen A. N. , Skottfelt J. , Jørgensen U. G.
Published: March 2018

Context.The Stellar Observation Network Group (SONG) is an initiative to build a worldwide network of 1m telescopes with high-precision radial-velocity spectrographs. Here we analyse the first radial-velocity time series of a red-giant star measured by the SONG telescope at Tenerife. The asteroseismic results demonstrate a major increase in the achievable precision of the parameters for red-giant stars obtainable from ground-based observations. Reliable tests of the validity of these results are needed, however, before the accuracy of the parameters can be trusted.

Aims.We analyse the first SONG time series for the star 46 LMi, which has a precise parallax and an angular diameter measured from interferometry, and therefore a good determination of the stellar radius. We use asteroseismic scaling relations to obtain an accurate mass, and modelling to determine the age.

Methods.A 55-day time series of high-resolution, high S/N spectra were obtained with the first SONG telescope. We derive the asteroseismic parameters by analysing the power spectrum. To give a best guess on the large separation of modes in the power spectrum, we have applied a new method which uses the scaling of Kepler red-giant stars to 46 LMi.

Results.Several methods have been applied: classical estimates, seismic methods using the observed time series, and model calculations to derive the fundamental parameters of 46 LMi. Parameters determined using the different methods are consistent within the uncertainties. We find the following values for the massM(scaling), radiusR(classical), age (modelling), and surface gravity (combining mass and radius):M= 1.09 ± 0.04M⊙,R= 7.95 ± 0.11R⊙aget= 8.2 ± 1.9 Gy, and logg= 2.674 ± 0.013.

Conclusions.The exciting possibilities for ground-based asteroseismology of solar-like oscillations with a fully robotic network have been illustrated with the results obtained from just a single site of the SONG network. The window function is still a severe problem which will be solved when there are more nodes in the network.
Case A and B evolution towards electron capture supernova
Authors: Siess L. , Lebreuilly U.
Published: March 2018

Context. Most super-asymptotic giant branch (SAGB) stars are expected to end their life as oxygen–neon white dwarfs rather than electron capture supernovae (ECSN). The reason is ascribed to the ability of the second dredge-up to significantly reduce the mass of the He core and of the efficient AGB winds to remove the stellar envelope before the degenerate core reaches the critical mass for the activation of electron capture reactions.

Aims. In this study, we investigate the formation of ECSN through case A and case B mass transfer. In these scenarios, when Roche lobe overflow stops, the primary has become a helium star. With a small envelope left, the second dredge-up is prevented, potentially opening new paths to ECSN.

Methods. We compute binary models using our stellar evolution code BINSTAR. We consider three different secondary masses of 8, 9, and 10 M⊙ and explore the parameter space, varying the companion mass, orbital period, and input physics.

Results. Assuming conservative mass transfer, with our choice of secondary masses all case A systems enter contact either during the main sequence or as a consequence of reversed mass transfer when the secondary overtakes its companion during core helium burning. Case B systems are able to produce ECSN progenitors in a relatively small range of periods (3 ≲ P(d) ≤ 30) and primary masses (10.9 ≤ M∕M⊙≤ 11.5). Changing the companion mass has little impact on the primary’s fate as long as the mass ratio M1∕M2 remains less than 1.4–1.5, above which evolution to contact becomes unavoidable. We also find that allowing for systemic mass loss substantially increases the period interval over which ECSN can occur. This change in the binary physics does not however affect the primary mass range. We finally stress that the formation of ECSN progenitors through case A and B mass transfer is very sensitive to adopted binary and stellar physics.

Conclusions. Close binaries provide additional channels for ECSN but the parameter space is rather constrained likely making ECSN a rare event.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Encephalitozoon cuniculi among domestic rabbits in central China
Authors: Wang Shuai , Yao Zhijun , Li Lingjuan , Pan Yaoqian , Li Pengju , Nan Xiaoxu , Xie Qing , Zhang Zhenchao
Published: March 2018

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are frequently reared for meat production in China. The aim of this study was to assess the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Encephalitozoon cuniculi, and risk factors of infection in domestic rabbits raised in Henan province, central China. 1,213 serum samples of domestic rabbits were collected and tested for anti-T. gondii and anti-E. cuniculi antibodies using a modified agglutination test (MAT) and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The serum positive rates of T. gondii and E. cuniculi were 128/1,213 (10.55%) and 235/1,213 (19.37%), respectively. Co-infection of T. gondii and E. cuniculi was demonstrated in 84 specimens; 44 rabbits were seropositive for T. gondii alone, while 151 rabbits were seropositive for E. cuniculi alone. The main risk factors simultaneously associated with T. gondii and E. cuniculi infection were the age of the rabbit, the type of food, and the rabbit rearing system. Serum positive rates of T. gondii and E. cuniculi among domestic rabbits were high, indicating the possibility of public health issues.
Do drowning and anoxia kill head lice?
Authors: Candy Kerdalidec , Brun Sophie , Nicolas Patrick , Durand Rémy , Charrel Remi N. , Izri Arezki
Published: March 2018

Chemical, physical, and mechanical methods are used to control human lice. Attempts have been made to eradicate head lice Pediculus humanus capitis by hot air, soaking in various fluids or asphyxiation using occlusive treatments. In this study, we assessed the maximum time that head lice can survive anoxia (oxygen deprivation) and their ability to survive prolonged water immersion. We also observed the ingress of fluids across louse tracheae and spiracle characteristics contrasting with those described in the literature. We showed that 100% of lice can withstand 8 h of anoxia and 12.2% survived 14 h of anoxia; survival was 48.9% in the untreated control group at 14 h. However, all lice had died following 16 h of anoxia. In contrast, the survival rate of water-immersed lice was significantly higher when compared with non-immersed lice after 6 h (100% vs. 76.6%, p = 0.0037), and 24 h (50.9% vs. 15.9%, p = 0.0003). Although water-immersed lice did not close their spiracles, water did not penetrate into the respiratory system. In contrast, immersion in colored dimeticone/cyclomethicone or colored ethanol resulted in penetration through the spiracles and spreading to the entire respiratory system within 30 min, leading to death in 100% of the lice.
Tuberculous lumbar spinal epidural abscess in a young adult (case report)
Authors: Hasan Ghazwan Abdulla , Kani Saif Mohammed , Alqatub Ahmed
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Spinal Epidural abscess (SEA) is an uncommon pathology that needs an urgent intervention to decompress the pressure on the spinal epidural sac, cord, and roots. The authors report a rare case of a young adult with lumbar spinal epidural tuberculous abscess occupying the spinal canal from L2–L5 vertebrae with extesion to the posterior paraspinal muscles and presenting with bilateral progressive lower limb weakness.  

Case report: A 42 years old male teacher presented with a 15-day history of progressive difficulty to walking and bilateral lower limb weakness associated with fever, malaise and later on urinary incontinence. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan revealed a paraspinal intermuscular abscess and an abscess occupying the spinal canal compressing the dural sac from L2–L4/5, without any signs of vertebral involvement. Surgery was done by a posterior midline incision. Pus was evacuated from multiple pockets through the paraspinal muscle layers. Laminectomy for L3/4, and hemilaminectomy for L2/3, and L4/5 were performed. Pus and bone specimens were negative for acid-fast bacilli. However, both histopathological studies and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing confirmed the presence of tuberculosis (TB). The patient received TB antibiotics, and a follow-up MRI scan at 2 months showed complete evacuation of the abscess. However, signs of L5 spondylitis were evident. No further surgery was needed as there was no vertebral collapse or neural compression and the patient's clinical condition was improving. He had normal right lower limb power and sensation and grade 4+ motor power of the left lower limb. Bowels and bladder function was normal.

Conclusion: Isolated tuberculous spinal epidural abscess is a rare disease and should be treated urgently with evacuation and decompression. Signs of spondylitis or spondylodiscitis may appear later and therefore long follow up is recommended in tuberculous cases presenting with an isolated epidural abscess.