bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of endothelial A-type lamins in migration of T cells on and under endothelial layers
Authors: Song Kwang Hoon , Lee Jaehyun , Park HyoungJun , Kim Hye Mi , Park Jeehun , Kwon Keon Woo , Doh Junsang
Published: March 2016

Stiff nuclei in cell-dense microenvironments may serve as distinct biomechanical cues for cell migration, but such a possibility has not been tested experimentally. As a first step addressing this question, we altered nuclear stiffness of endothelial cells (ECs) by reducing the expression of A-type lamins using siRNA, and investigated the migration of T cells on and under EC layers. While most T cells crawling on control EC layers avoided crossing over EC nuclei, a significantly higher fraction of T cells on EC layers with reduced expression of A-type lamins crossed over EC nuclei. This result suggests that stiff EC nuclei underlying T cells may serve as “duro-repulsive” cues to direct T cell migration toward less stiff EC cytoplasm. During subendothelial migration under EC layers with reduced expression of A-type lamins, T cells made prolonged contact and substantially deformed EC nuclei, resulting in reduced speed and directional persistence. This result suggests that EC nuclear stiffness promotes fast and directionally persistent subendothelial migration of T cells by allowing minimum interaction between T cells and EC nuclei.
CpG methylation patterns of human mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Liu Baojing , Du Qingqing , Chen Lu , Fu Guangping , Li Shujin , Fu Lihong , Zhang Xiaojing , Ma Chunling , Bin Cong
Published: March 2016

The epigenetic modification of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is still in controversy. To clarify this point, we applied the gold standard method for DNA methylation, bisulfite pyrosequencing, to examine human mtDNA methylation status. Before bisulfite conversion, BamHI was used to digest DNA to open the loop of mtDNA. The results demonstrated that the linear mtDNA had significantly higher bisulfite conversion efficiency compared with circular mtDNA. Furthermore, the methylation values obtained from linear mtDNA were significantly lower than that of circular mtDNA, which was verified by SEQUENOM MassARRAY. The above impacts of circular structure were also observed in lung DNA samples but not in saliva DNA samples. Mitochondrial genome methylation of blood samples and saliva samples from 14 unrelated individuals was detected. The detected regions covered 83 CpG sites across mtDNA including D-loop, 12 S rRNA, 16 S rRNA, ND1, COXI, ND3, ND4, ND5, CYTB. We found that the average methylation levels of nine regions were all less than 2% for both sample types. In conclusion, our findings firstly show that the circular structure of mtDNA affects bisulfite conversion efficiency, which leads to overestimation of mtDNA methylation values. CpG methylation in human mtDNA is a very rare event at most DNA regions.
In situ Fabrication of α-Bi2O3/(BiO)2CO3 Nanoplate Heterojunctions with Tunable Optical Property and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Huang Yu , Wang Wei , Zhang Qian , Cao Jun-ji , Huang Ru-jin , Ho Wingkei , Lee Shun Cheng
Published: March 2016

Exploring the full potential use of heterojunction photocatalysts containing bismuth has attracted considerable interest in recent years. Fabrication of well-defined heterojunction photocatalysts with precise modulation of their chemical composition is crucial for tuning their optical properties and photocatalytic activity. In this study, we fabricated nanoplate α-Bi2O3/(BiO)2CO3 heterojunctions through in situ thermal treatment of (BiO)2CO3 nanoplates synthesized using a facile hydrothermal process. Characterization results showed that the as-prepared Bi2O3/(BiO)2CO3 heterojunctions possessed distinct crystal interface and exhibited pronounced structural and optical modulation, resulting in significant improvement of their photocatalytic activity for NO removal under simulated solar light irradiation compared with pristine (BiO)2CO3. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy showed that ⋅OH radicals were the major reactive species involved in NO degradation, which is consistent with the theoretical analysis. The heterojunction formation can not only broaden the light absorption range but also improve the charge separation of photo-induced electron–hole pairs. This study is an important advancement in the development of semiconductor heterojunctions towards achieving functional photocatalysts.
The conifer biomarkers dehydroabietic and abietic acids are widespread in Cyanobacteria
Authors: Costa Maria Sofia , Rego Adriana , Ramos Vitor , Afonso Tiago B. , Freitas Sara , Preto Marco , Lopes Viviana , Vasconcelos Vitor , Magalhães Catarina , Leão Pedro N.
Published: March 2016

Terpenes, a large family of natural products with important applications, are commonly associated with plants and fungi. The diterpenoids dehydroabietic and abietic acids are defense metabolites abundant in resin, and are used as biomarkers for conifer plants. We report here for the first time that the two diterpenoid acids are produced by members of several genera of cyanobacteria. Dehydroabietic acid was isolated from two cyanobacterial strains and its identity was confirmed spectroscopically. One or both of the diterpenoids were detected in the cells of phylogenetically diverse cyanobacteria belonging to four cyanobacterial ‘botanical orders’, from marine, estuarine and inland environments. Dehydroabietic acid was additionally found in culture supernatants. We investigated the natural role of the two resin acids in cyanobacteria using ecologically-relevant bioassays and found that the compounds inhibited the growth of a small coccoid cyanobacterium. The unexpected discovery of dehydroabietic and abietic acids in a wide range of cyanobacteria has implications for their use as plant biomarkers.
Influences of population density on polyandry and patterns of sperm usage in the marine gastropod Rapana venosa
Authors: Xue Dong-Xiu , Zhang Tao , Liu Jin-Xian
Published: March 2016

Polyandry is a common mating strategy in animals, with potential for sexual selection to continue post-copulation through sperm competition and/or cryptic female choice. Few studies have investigated the influences of population density on polyandry and sperm usage, and paternity distribution in successive broods of marine invertebrates. The marine gastropod Rapana venosa is ideal for investigating how population density influences the frequency of polyandry and elucidating patterns of sperm usage. Two different population density (12 ind/m3 and 36 ind/m3) treatments with two replications were set to observe reproductive behaviors. Five microsatellite markers were used to identify the frequency of multiple paternity and determine paternal contributions to progeny arrays in 120 egg masses. All of the mean mating frequency, mean number of sires and mean egg-laying frequency were higher at high population density treatment relative to low population density treatment, indicating population density is an important factor affecting polyandry. The last sperm donors achieved high proportions of paternity in 74.77% of egg masses, which supported the “last male sperm precedence” hypothesis. In addition, high variance in reproductive success among R. venosa males were detected, which might have an important influence on effective population size.
Extracellular polymer substances and the heterogeneity of Clostridium acetobutylicum biofilm induced tolerance to acetic acid and butanol
Authors: Zhuang Wei , Yang Jing , Wu Jinglan , Liu Dong , Zhou Jingwei , Chen Yong , Ying Hanjie
Published: March 2016

Extracellular polymer substances limited the transfer of harmful substances, and thus diluted their concentration in order to protect biofilm cells, enabling the maintenance of stability and increased tolerance to environmental stress.
Design and control of Lewis acid sites in Sn-substituted microporous architectures
Authors: Mohammed Khaled M. H. , Chutia Arunabhiram , Callison June , Wells Peter P. , Gibson Emma K. , Beale Andrew M. , Catlow C. Richard A. , Raja Robert
Published: March 2016

Modulation of tetrahedral Sn(iv) active sites in framework architectures influences the generation of Lewis and Brønsted acid sites in heterogeneous catalysts.
A few-layered Ti3C2nanosheet/glass fiber composite separator as a lithium polysulphide reservoir for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Lin Chong , Zhang Weikun , Wang Lei , Wang Zhenggong , Zhao Wen , Duan Wenhui , Zhao Zhigang , Liu Bin , Jin Jian
Published: March 2016

A few-layered Ti3C2nanosheet/glass fiber composite separator was designed and fabricated as a lithium polysulphide reservoir for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries.
An effective approach to improve the electrochemical performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathode by an MOF-derived coating
Authors: Li Siwu , Fu Xiaotao , Zhou Junwen , Han Yuzhen , Qi Pengfei , Gao Xing , Feng Xiao , Wang Bo
Published: March 2016

We report an effective surface modification for NCM-622, using MOF-derived alumina (MDA) coatings. The coated NCM-622 shows greatly enhanced performance: 214.6 and 196.5 mA h g−1 at 0.2C and 1C, respectively, with capacity retention of 92.7% after 100 cycles at 1C.
Positively charged armed nanoparticles demonstrate their precise delivery performance for effective treatment of chorioretinal diseases
Authors: Wei Wei , Zhu Dan , Wang Zhenhua , Ni Dezhi , Yue Hua , Wang Shuang , Tao Yong , Ma Guanghui
Published: March 2016

Positively charged armed nanoparticles can accumulate in the ocular fundus by utilizing the natural intraocular electrical field, and further penetrate into the fundus sub-layers by optimizing their charge density.
Development of gelatin nanoparticles conjugated with phytohemagglutinin erythroagglutinating loaded with gemcitabine for inducing apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Kuo Wei-Ting , Huang Jian-Yuan , Chen Min-Hua , Chen Ching-Yun , Shyong Yan-Jye , Yen Ko-Chung , Sun Yu-Jun , Ke Cherng-Jyh , Cheng Yung-Hsin , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: March 2016

Fluorescent gelatin nanoparticles (GNPs) conjugated with PHA-E and carried gemcitabine were synthesized by nanoprecipitation for targeting and treatment of NSCLC cells.
Mn-complex modified NaDyF4:Yb@NaLuF4:Yb,Er@polydopamine core–shell nanocomposites for multifunctional imaging-guided photothermal therapy
Authors: Liu Tianyun , Li Senzhi , Liu Yuxin , Guo Quanwei , Wang Lu , Liu Dongdong , Zhou Jing
Published: March 2016

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have been used as building blocks in the construction of multimodal contrast agents for theranostics, that is, the combination of diagnostics and therapies.
Influence of the protonation of pyridine nitrogen on pnicogen bonding: competition and cooperativity
Authors: Wei Yuanxin , Li Qingzhong , Li Wenzuo , Cheng Jianbo , McDowell Sean A. C.
Published: March 2016

Ab initio MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ calculations were performed to investigate the pnicogen-bonded complexes of PyZX2 (Py = pyridine, Z = P and As, X = H and F) and their protonated analogues.
Analysis of defect luminescence in Ga-doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Wenliang , Kitamura Shoichiro , Boffelli Marco , Marin Elia , Gaspera Enrico Della , Sturaro Marco , Martucci Alessandro , Pezzotti Giuseppe
Published: March 2016

Cathodoluminescence analysis in Ga-doped ZnO nanoparticles showed a strong dependence of defect-induced emissions on both dopant content and synthesis methods. The physical origin of all the sub-bands could be clarified, and related to sample composition and synthesis protocol.
Morphology-dependent performance of Zr–CeVO4/TiO2 for selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3
Authors: Zhao Xin , Huang Lei , Namuangruk Supawadee , Hu Hang , Hu Xiaonan , Shi Liyi , Zhang Dengsong
Published: March 2016

The morphology-dependent performance of Zr–CeVO4/TiO2 was demonstrated for the selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3.
K2Sn2ZnSe6, Na2Ge2ZnSe6, and Na2In2GeSe6: a new series of quaternary selenides with intriguing structural diversity and nonlinear optical properties
Authors: Zhou Molin , Li Chao , Li Xiaoshuang , Yao Jiyong , Wu Yicheng
Published: March 2016

New selenides K2Sn2ZnSe6, Na2Ge2ZnSe6, and Na2In2GeSe6 exhibit diverse structures and Na2In2GeSe6 possesses a moderate second harmonic generation response.
Voltage clustering in redox-active ligand complexes: mitigating electronic communication through choice of metal ion
Authors: Zarkesh Ryan A. , Ichimura Andrew S. , Monson Todd C. , Tomson Neil C. , Anstey Mitchell R.
Published: March 2016

Homoleptic bis(imino)acenaphthene complexes of aluminum, chromium, and gallium were synthesized, characterized and modeled to compare the orbital contributions of main group elements and transition metals in ligand-based redox events toward increasing energy density of battery electrolytes.
New sandwich-type lanthanide complexes based on closed-macrocyclic Schiff base and phthalocyanine molecules
Authors: Gao Feng , Feng Xiaowan , Yang Liu , Chen Xiaoyu
Published: March 2016

Two new sandwich-type lanthanide complexes simultaneously containing closed-macrocyclic Schiff base and phthalocyanine molecules were synthesized and structurally characterized. The magnetic studies reveal the corresponding dysprosium complex behaves as a typical SMM.
Low-voltage, high-brightness and deep-red light-emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) based on new ruthenium(ii) phenanthroimidazole complexes
Authors: Nemati Bideh Babak , Roldán-Carmona Cristina , Shahroosvand Hashem , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: March 2016

Light-Emitting Electrochemical Cells (LECs) with a simple device structure ITO/Ru complex/Ga:In were prepared by using heteroleptic ruthenium(ii) complexes containing phenanthroimidazole as π-extended ligand.
Solvothermal synthesis of wire-like SnxSb2Te3+x with an enhanced thermoelectric performance
Authors: Yang Heng Quan , Miao Lei , Liu Cheng Yan , Wang Xiao Yang , Peng Ying , Zhang Ai Juan , Zhou Xiao Yuan , Wang Guo Yu , Li Chao , Huang Rong
Published: March 2016

Wire-like SnxSb2Te3+x (x = 0.00–0.05) nanoparticles were synthesized using elemental precursors in EG. An enhanced power factor and reduced thermal conductivity were realized in the Sn0.02Sb2Te3.02 nanobulk sample as a result of the newly generated defect centers of (Sn′Sb + h˙).
Environmental genome of industrial products (EGIP): the missing link for human health
Authors: Overcash Michael
Published: March 2016

Environmental genome captures global emissions to air, water, and terrestrial systems from manufacturing products for society.
Efficient utilization of photogenerated electrons and holes for photocatalytic selective organic syntheses in one reaction system using a narrow band gap CdS photocatalyst
Authors: Ning Xiaofeng , Meng Sugang , Fu Xianliang , Ye Xiangju , Chen Shifu
Published: March 2016

Selective syntheses of aromatic aldehydes and anilines were realized in one coupled system under mild reaction conditions and their yields can be successfully achieved at the theoretical ratio.
Copper(i)-catalyzed sulfonylation of (2-alkynylaryl)boronic acids with DABSO
Authors: Mao Runyu , Zheng Danqing , Xia Hongguang , Wu Jie
Published: March 2016

The scaffold of benzo[b]thiophene 1,1-dioxides can be easily constructed through a copper(i)-catalyzed insertion of sulfur dioxide into (2-alkynylaryl)boronic acids. The reaction proceeds via insertion of sulfur dioxide and subsequent intramolecular 5-endo cyclization.
Energy revamping of solar panels through titania nanocomposite coatings; influence of aqueous silica precursor
Authors: Smitha V. S. , Vidya K. , Jayasankar M. , Peer Mohamed A. , Hareesh U. S. , Warrier K. G. K.
Published: March 2016

A novel, multifunctional, titania–silica–lanthanum phosphate (TSL) nanocomposite coating on solar panel modules was found to significantly increase the output voltage to ~15% under outdoor exposure leading to the energy revamping of solar panels.
Alternate cyclopolymer of diallylglutamic acid and sulfur dioxide
Authors: Jamiu Zakariyah A. , Ali Shaikh A.
Published: March 2016

The alternate cyclocopolymerization of a glutamic acid-based monomer and SO2led to a pH-responsive polydianionic electrolyte (PDE) which is used to construct a recyclable aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) and found to be an effective antiscalant.
Probing the interaction between cisplatin and the therapeutic monoclonal antibody trastuzumab
Authors: Lasorsa Alessia , Losacco Maurizio , Iacobazzi Rosa Maria , Porcelli Letizia , Azzariti Amalia , Natile Giovanni , Arnesano Fabio
Published: March 2016

Cisplatin binds to the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab preferentially to the Fc fragment, leaving the antigen binding region unaffected. The two drugs are co-administered in cancer therapy.
A graphene oxide–MgWO4 nanocomposite as an efficient catalyst for the thermal decomposition of RDX, HMX
Authors: Zu Yanqing , Zhang Yu , Xu Kangzhen , Zhao Fengqi
Published: March 2016

A GO–MgWO4 nanocomposite was prepared by a facile chemical method and characterized by XRD, IR, SEM, TEM, EDS and XPS.
Supercoiled fibres of self-sorted donor–acceptor stacks: a turn-off/turn-on platform for sensing volatile aromatic compounds
Authors: Sandeep Anjamkudy , Praveen Vakayil K. , Kartha Kalathil K. , Karunakaran Venugopal , Ajayaghosh Ayyappanpillai
Published: March 2016

Supercoiled fibres of self-sorted donor–acceptor assemblies that allow the sensing of nitroaromatics and aromatic amines using a “turn-off/turn-on” mechanism are reported.
Mechanistically informed predictions of binding modes for carbocation intermediates of a sesquiterpene synthase reaction
Authors: O'Brien T. E. , Bertolani S. J. , Tantillo D. J. , Siegel J. B.
Published: March 2016

Predicting the binding mode of carbocations produced in sesquiterpene synthase enzymes is not unlike finding a piece of hay in a haystack. A new method for tackling this problem is described.
Three-dimensional fusiform hierarchical micro/nano Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 with a preferred orientation (110) plane as a high energy cathode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Yu , Bai Ying , Wu Chuan , Qian Ji , Chen Guanghai , Liu Lu , Wang Hui , Zhou Xingzhen , Wu Feng
Published: March 2016

3D fusiform hierarchical micro/nano Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 with preferred orientation (110) plane is successfully synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method, where the voltage fading is efficiently suppressed, and the rate performance is improved.
Overcoming the chemical instability on exposure to air of Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes by coating with spinel LiMn1.9Al0.1O4
Authors: Oh Pilgun , Song Bohang , Li Wangda , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: March 2016

To overcome the chemical instability on exposure to air of Ni-rich materials, a heterostructure composed of a Ni-rich layered oxide core and a Mn-rich LiMn1.9Al0.1O4 shell is explored. The spinel coating alleviates the chemical instability leading to superior capacity retention even after air-storage.
Universal synthesis method for mixed phase TiO2(B)/anatase TiO2thin films on substrates via a modified low pressure chemical vapour deposition (LPCVD) route
Authors: Chimupala Yothin , Junploy Patcharanan , Hardcastle Trevor , Westwood Aidan , Scott Andrew , Johnson Benjamin , Brydson Rik
Published: March 2016

We present a universal synthesis method for mixed phase TiO2(B)/anatase thin films on any substrate.
Electroactive ion exchange materials: current status in synthesis, applications and future prospects
Authors: Du Xiao , Hao Xiaogang , Wang Zhongde , Guan Guoqing
Published: March 2016

The recent state of and challenges for the synthesis of electroactive ion exchange materials and their application in selective ion separation, supercapacitors and electrochemical ion sensors are reviewed and discussed.
Activated carbon fiber paper with exceptional capacitive performance as a robust electrode for supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Zifan , Han Yi , Zeng Yinxiang , Qie Yanlin , Wang Yichen , Zheng Dezhou , Lu Xihong , Tong Yexiang
Published: March 2016

Herein, a facile and available electrochemical activation approach has been developed to markedly boost the capacitive performance of carbon fiber paper (CFP).
A reversible fluorescent pH-sensing system based on the one-pot synthesis of natural silk fibroin-capped copper nanoclusters
Authors: Zhang Guomei , Xu Ting , Du Huizhi , Qiao Yunyun , Guo Xiaohong , Shi Lihong , Zhang Yan , Shuang Shaomin , Dong Chuan , Ma Huimin
Published: March 2016

A one-pot “green” synthesis of water soluble and pH-responsive natural silk fibroin (SF)-stabilized fluorescent copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) was reported without using any additional reducing agents.
Solution processed bulk heterojunction solar cells based on A–D–A small molecules with a dihydroindoloindole (DINI) central donor and different acceptor end groups
Authors: Sim Jangkeun , Lee Hyejeoung , Song Kihyoung , Biswas Subhayan , Sharma Abhishek , Sharma Ganesh D. , Ko Jaejung
Published: March 2016

The optimized devices after TSA treatment showed PCEs of 7.04% and 6.16% when employing DIN-IND : PC71BM (1 : 2) and DIN-CN : PC71BM (1 : 2), respectively.
Real‐time crash prediction on urban expressways: identification of key variables and a hybrid support vector machine model
Authors: Sun Jie , Sun Jian
Published: March 2016

The traffic safety on expressways is crucial for the efficient operation of the expressway system, and there is a close relationship between traffic states and crashes on expressways, and the occurrence of crashes may be influenced by the interaction of different combinations of traffic states upstream and downstream of the crash location. Based on the crash data and the corresponding traffic flow detector data collected on expressways in Shanghai, this study proposes a hybrid model combining a support vector machine (SVM) model with a k‐means clustering algorithm to predict the likelihood of crashes. The random forest (RF) model is employed to select the important and significant variables for model construction from the data of the traffic flow 5–10 min before the crash occurred. Then, the cross‐validation and transferability of different models (SVM model without variable selection, SVM model with variable selection, and hybrid SVM model with variable selection) are determined using 577 crashes and 5794 matched non‐crash events. The results show that the crash prediction model along with the four most important variables selected using the RF model can obtain a satisfactory prediction performance for crashes. With the combination of the clustering algorithm and SVM model, the accuracy of the crash prediction model can be as high as 78.0%. Moreover, the results of the transferability of the three different models imply that the variable selection and clustering algorithm both have an advantage for crash prediction.
Map‐matching algorithm applied to bicycle global positioning system traces in Bologna
Authors: Schweizer Joerg , Bernardi Silvia , Rupi Federico
Published: March 2016

A novel map‐matching algorithm is proposed, implemented and applied to global positioning system (GPS) traces which have been recorded by cyclists in Bologna, a medium‐sized city in the North of Italy. The algorithm has been developed to match geo‐referenced traces to a sequence of edges of a given road network model. Map‐matching for bike trips is particularly challenging as cyclists often use footpath or parks which are not necessarily represented by the road network model. The matching algorithm should smartly tolerate the lack of network information. The algorithm should also be fast and capable of processing thousands of GPS traces in a reasonable time. The proposed probability‐based method, which also exploits information on various network attributes, allows a reliable and fast map matching, even in dense street networks and with interrupted GPS data streams. In fact, one serious issue is to find a reliability measure which allows to verify the matched routes, without the knowledge of the real routes, as the available cyclist traces are anonymous. In addition to the reliability check, a sensitivity analyses with respect to the most relevant parameters has been conducted. The advantages of the proposed map‐matching algorithm are quantified through a direct comparison with a topology‐based map‐matching algorithm from literature.
Trajectory control for autonomous electric vehicles with in‐wheel motors based on a dynamics model approach
Authors: Li Boyuan , Du Haiping , Li Weihua
Published: March 2016

The trajectory control of autonomous vehicles is an area which has attracted much research recently because it can prevent accidents caused by driver errors and significantly improve road capacity. Overtaking is one of the most complex and challenging manoeuvres for road vehicles and the autonomous control of the vehicle during this manoeuvre can greatly improve vehicle safety. As the innovative four‐wheel independent steering (4WIS) and four‐wheel independent driving (4WID) electric vehicle can provide redundant control actuators, this study focuses on utilising 4WIS–4WID techniques and vehicle dynamics control to achieve better control of autonomous vehicles. This study first introduces the traditional two‐wheel proportional–integral–derivative (PID) steering control and two‐wheel sliding mode controller (SMC) driving control for autonomous vehicle control. Then based on these, the four‐wheel PID steering controller and four‐wheel SMC steering controller are proposed. A four‐wheel SMC driving controller and a four‐wheel combined yaw rate and longitudinal velocity SMC driving controller are also proposed. Simulation results prove that the best control performance can be achieved when the four‐wheel SMC steering controller and four‐wheel combined yaw rate and longitudinal velocity SMC driving controller are used together.
Rapid multi‐objective design optimisation of compact microwave couplers by means of physics‐based surrogates
Authors: Koziel Slawomir , Bekasiewicz Adrian , Kurgan Piotr , Bandler John W.
Published: March 2016

The authors introduce a methodology for fast multi‐objective design optimisation of miniaturised microwave couplers. The approach exploits the surrogate‐based optimisation paradigm with an underlying low‐fidelity model constructed from an equivalent circuit of the structure under consideration, corrected through implicit and frequency space mapping. A fast prediction tool obtained this way is subsequently optimised by a multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm to identify an initial approximation of the Pareto front, that is, a set of designs representing the best possible trade‐offs between conflicting objectives. The correction/optimisation of the surrogate is then iterated by design space confinement and segmentation based on a Pareto set representation obtained thus far in the process. This aims at improving the surrogate model accuracy in the vicinity of the Pareto‐optimal solutions. The technique is demonstrated by two design examples of compact rat‐race couplers. Experimental validation is also provided.
Broadband models for key equipment in high‐voltage DC converter stations
Authors: Jiao Chaoqun , Yao Aifen , Liu Xiang
Published: March 2016

In this study, the modelling methods are compared in terms of their accuracy and modelling simplicity for different types of components. And the principle of the equivalent circuit model is obtained from reference and is used in the proposed equivalent circuit models of other equipment of HVDC converter stations. Then, all the models are connected into an HVDC system, and simulations are conducted to verify the validity of the proposed model. A comparison with the traditional modelling method shows that the proposed method is more effective for studying entire HVDC converter stations, and is also better suited for equipment building and simulating. Simulation results show that the model is effective and acceptable.
Regular black hole solutions of the non-minimally coupled Y(R) F2 gravity
Authors: Sert Özcan
Published: March 2016

In this study, we investigate regular black hole solutions of the non-minimally coupled Y(R) F2 gravity model. We give two regular black hole solutions and the corresponding non-minimal model for both electrically or magnetically charged cases. We calculate all the energy conditions for these solutions.
Submicron R2Fe14B particles
Authors: Koylu-Alkan O. , Barandiaran J. M. , Salazar D. , Hadjipanayis G. C.
Published: March 2016

Mechanochemical synthesis of submicron R2Fe14B particles with R = Dy, Nd, Pr has been performed successfully via high energy ball milling of rare-earth oxides, iron oxide and boron oxide in the presence of a reducing agent (Ca) and a dispersant material (CaO), followed by annealing at 800 - 900 °C. In the R = Nd system, we were able to fabricate particles embedded in a CaO matrix with coercivity (Hc) of 10.3 kOe after annealing at 900 °C for 5 min. After washing off the dispersant, the Hc was decreased to below 1 kOe because of hydrogen absorption that leads to the formation of the hydrated R2Fe14BHx phase that has a lower anisotropy. Upon removal of the hydrogen the coercivity was increased to 3.3 kOe. The average size of the Nd2Fe14B particles increases from 100 nm in a sample synthesized at 800 °C to 158 nm at 900 °C. The isotropic Dy2Fe14B particles showed a higher coercivity of 21 kOe in washed samples after annealing at 900 °C for 5 min. An average size of 71 nm is measured in samples synthesized at 800 °C and 107 nm at 900 °C. Fitting the high field M(H) measurements in Nd2Fe14B to the law of approach to saturation gave values for the magnetocrystalline anisotropy for the washed sample 2.23 × 107 erg/cm3 and for the vacuum annealed sample 4.15 × 107 erg/cm3, both of which are lower than the bulk values. This would explain the lower values of Hc observed in the particles.
Micromagnetic simulation of the orientation dependence of grain boundary properties on the coercivity of Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets
Authors: Fujisaki Jun , Furuya Atsushi , Uehara Yuji , Shimizu Koichi , Ataka Tadashi , Tanaka Tomohiro , Oshima Hirotaka , Ohkubo Tadakatsu , Hirosawa Satoshi , Hono Kazuhiro
Published: March 2016

This paper is focused on the micromagnetic simulation study about the orientation dependence of grain boundary properties on the coercivity of polycrystalline Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets. A multigrain object with a large number of meshes is introduced to analyze such anisotropic grain boundaries and the simulation is performed by combining the finite element method and the parallel computing. When the grain boundary phase parallel to the c-plane is less ferromagnetic the process of the magnetization reversal changes and the coercivity of the multigrain object increases. The simulations with various magnetic properties of the grain boundary phases are executed to search for the way to enhance the coercivity of polycrystalline Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets.
Modulating the spin transport behaviors in ZBNCNRs by edge hydrogenation and position of BN chain
Authors: Ouyang Jun , Long Mengqiu , Zhang Xiaojiao , Zhang Dan , He Jun , Gao Yongli
Published: March 2016

Using the density functional theory and the nonequilibrium Green’s function method, we study the spin transport behaviors in zigzag boron-nitrogen-carbon nanoribbons (ZBNCNRs) by modulating the edge hydrogenation and the position of B-N nanoribbons (BNNRs) chain. The different edge hydrogenations of the ZBNCNRs and the different position relationships of the BNNRs have been considered systematically. Our results show that the metallic, semimetallic and semiconductive properties of the ZBNCNRs can be modulated by the different edge hydrogenations and different position relationships of BN chains. And our proposaled ZBNCNRs devices act as perfect spin-filters with nearly 100% spin polarization. These effects would have potential applications for boron-nitrogen-carbon-based nanomaterials in spintronics nano-devices.
Strong genetic differentiation among populations of the freshwater shrimp Caridina cantonensis in Hong Kong: implications for conservation of freshwater fauna in urban areas
Authors: Tsang Ling Ming , Tsoi Kwok Ho , Chan Simon Kin-Fung , Chan Tony King-Tung , Chu Ka Hou
Published: March 2016

Freshwater organisms generally exhibit strong genetic structuring. Although understanding the level and spatial distribution of genetic diversity is crucial for conservation management planning, such information has received little attention until recently in highly developed cities where local extinction attributed to habitat destruction and urbanisation is intense. We compared the genetic divergence in mitochondrial COI of the freshwater shrimp Caridina cantonensis collected from 32 sites in Hong Kong, to determine the connectivity among populations and the levels of genetic diversity of the shrimp. We found that shrimp from different streams are genetically highly differentiated and each stream always has its own unique haplotype groups, even though some of the streams are separated only by a few kilometres, indicating very limited gene flow across streams. Moreover, genetic diversity within each stream is very low, usually with a single haplotype dominating the entire population, and genetic differentiation was observed among tributaries from the same drainage. The high genetic diversity of these species over short distances has significant conservation implications because a substantial amount of biodiversity may have already been lost as a result of past development. Careful conservation planning is essential for future development in Hong Kong and other cities.
Effect of rice-husk biochar on selected soil properties in tropical Alfisols
Authors: Gamage D. N. Vidana , Mapa R. B. , Dharmakeerthi R. S. , Biswas A.
Published: March 2016

Despite the large number of studies on biochar and soil properties, few studies have investigated the effects of biochar in contrasting soils. A study was conducted including four rice-husk biochar rates (0%, 0.1%, 0.5% and 1%) to understand the effects on selected soil properties of two Alfisols (sand and sandy loam) in Sri Lanka. Significant changes in soil properties including increases in pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic carbon, water retention at field capacity and saturated hydraulic conductivity, and reduction in bulk density, were observed at higher rates of biochar (0.5% and 1%). Mean-weight-diameter increased only at 1% biochar application rate in sandy soil, whereas it significantly increased across all the rates in sandy loam soil over the control. Electrical conductivity showed no significant increase in either soil, indicating no threat of salinity. Biochar showed a potential for ameliorating acidity, especially in slightly acidic sandy soil. Soil aggregation and water flow improved markedly in sandy loam soil over sandy soil. Further, CEC and water retention of sandy soil had pronounced effects compared with sandy loam soil. Our study highlights the importance of soil type in determining the value of rice-husk biochar as a soil amendment to improve soil aggregation, water retention and flow and CEC.
Ultrasonic processing of molten and solidifying aluminium alloys: Overview and outlook
Authors: Eskin D. G.
Published: March 2016

Ultrasonic melt processing attracts since the 1930 a lot of interest both from academic researchers and industry. In the last 10 years the interest to ultrasonic melt processing grew with regard to understanding the underlying mechanisms of previously established effects, developing numerical models of ultrasonic cavitation and the development of nanocomposite technology. This review paper summarises the mechanisms involved in the ultrasonic melt processing, including cavitation, flows, nucleation, activation, fragmentation and their consequences for degassing, structure refinement and particle dispersion. Some typical mistakes made by researchers in performing experiments and in interpretation of the results are discussed. New advanced methods of studying ultrasonic treatment and phenomena are considered. The paper also gives an outlook to future developments and challenges.

This paper is part of a Themed Issue on Aluminium-based materials: processing, microstructure, properties, and recycling.
A Comparison of Circle Hook Size on Hooking Success, Deep Hooking Rate, and Postrelease Mortality of Hatchery-Reared Rainbow Trout
Authors: Sell Matthew T. , Kazyak David C. , Hilderbrand Robert H. , Heft Alan A. , Cooper Ryan M.
Published: March 2016

We investigated the effects of circle hook size and angling technique on hooking location, capture success, and postrelease mortality in salmonids by using hatchery-reared Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Fish were caught using a range of inline circle hook sizes (4, 6, 8, and 10) baited and fished both actively and passively. While hook size had no influence on capture rates, active fishing resulted in significantly higher capture rates. Very few mortalities (2%) were observed across angling methods or hook sizes during 72 h of postrelease monitoring. However, significantly more fish were deeply hooked with passive fishing. Contrary to claims by manufacturers and sportfishing entities, mounting evidence indicates that passively fished circle hooks have lower capture rates and might actually increase deep hooking in salmonids.

Received May 19, 2015; accepted November 12, 2015 Published online March 21, 2016
Effect of calcium on cell-wall degrading enzymes of Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Sasanuma Izumi , Suzuki Takuya
Published: March 2016

Effective anti-Botrytis strategies leading to reduce pesticides on strawberries are examined to provide the protection that is harmless to humans, higher animals and plants. Calcium treatments significantly inhibited the spore germination and mycelial growth of B. cinerea. The intracellular polygalacturonase and CMCase showed low activities in B. cinerea cultivated by medium containing calcium. On the other hand, calcium-stimulated β-glucosidases production occurred. Our findings suggest that the calcium treatments keep CMCase activity low and cause low activities of cell-wall degrading enzymes of B. cinerea in the late stage of growth.
Prevalence of Face Recognition Deficits in Middle Childhood
Authors: Bennetts Rachel J. , Murray Ebony , Boyce Tian , Bate Sarah
Published: March 2016

Approximately 2–2.5% of the adult population is believed to show severe difficulties with face recognition, in the absence of any neurological injury—a condition known as developmental prosopagnosia (DP). However, to date no research has attempted to estimate the prevalence of face recognition deficits in children, possibly because there are very few child-friendly, well-validated tests of face recognition. In the current study, we examined face and object recognition in a group of primary school children (aged 5–11 years), to establish whether our tests were suitable for children and to provide an estimate of face recognition difficulties in children. In Experiment 1 ( n = 184), children completed a pre-existing test of child face memory, the Cambridge Face Memory Test–Kids (CFMT-K), and a bicycle test with the same format. In Experiment 2 ( n = 413), children completed three-alternative forced-choice matching tasks with faces and bicycles. All tests showed good psychometric properties. The face and bicycle tests were well matched for difficulty and showed a similar developmental trajectory. Neither the memory nor the matching tests were suitable to detect impairments in the youngest groups of children, but both tests appear suitable to screen for face recognition problems in middle childhood. In the current sample, 1.2–5.2% of children showed difficulties with face recognition; 1.2–4% showed face-specific difficulties—that is, poor face recognition with typical object recognition abilities. This is somewhat higher than previous adult estimates: It is possible that face matching tests overestimate the prevalence of face recognition difficulties in children; alternatively, some children may “outgrow” face recognition difficulties.
The macrophage IRF8/IRF1 regulome is required for protection against infections and is associated with chronic inflammation
Authors: Langlais David , Barreiro Luis B. , Gros Philippe
Published: March 2016

IRF8 and IRF1 are transcriptional regulators that play critical roles in the development and function of myeloid cells, including activation of macrophages by proinflammatory signals such as interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Loss of IRF8 or IRF1 function causes severe susceptibility to infections in mice and in humans. We used chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and RNA sequencing in wild type and in IRF8 and IRF1 mutant primary macrophages to systematically catalog all of the genes bound by (cistromes) and transcriptionally activated by (regulomes) IRF8, IRF1, PU.1, and STAT1, including modulation of epigenetic histone marks. Of the seven binding combinations identified, two (cluster 1 [IRF8/IRF1/STAT1/PU.1] and cluster 5 [IRF1/STAT1/PU.1]) were found to have a major role in controlling macrophage transcriptional programs both at the basal level and after IFN-γ activation. They direct the expression of a set of genes, the IRF8/IRF1 regulome, that play critical roles in host inflammatory and antimicrobial defenses in mouse models of neuroinflammation and of pulmonary tuberculosis, respectively. In addition, this IRF8/IRF1 regulome is enriched for genes mutated in human primary immunodeficiencies and with loci associated with several inflammatory diseases in humans.
Identification of combinatorial and singular genomic signatures of host adaptation in influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes
Authors: Khaliq Zeeshan , Leijon Mikael , Belák Sándor , Komorowski Jan
Published: March 2016

Background

The underlying strategies used by influenza A viruses (IAVs) to adapt to new hosts while crossing the species barrier are complex and yet to be understood completely. Several studies have been published identifying singular genomic signatures that indicate such a host switch. The complexity of the problem suggested that in addition to the singular signatures, there might be a combinatorial use of such genomic features, in nature, defining adaptation to hosts..

Results

We used computational rule-based modeling to identify combinatorial sets of interacting amino acid (aa) residues in 12 proteins of IAVs of H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes. We built highly accurate rule-based models for each protein that could differentiate between viral aa sequences coming from avian and human hosts,. We found 68 combinations of aa residues associated to host adaptation (HAd) on HA, M1, M2, NP, NS1, NEP, PA, PA-X, PB1 and PB2 proteins of the H1N1 subtype and 24 on M1, M2, NEP, PB1 and PB2 proteins of the H3N2 subtypes. In addition to these combinations, we found 132 novel singular aa signatures distributed among all proteins, including the newly discovered PA-X protein, of both subtypes. We showed that HA, NA, NP, NS1, NEP, PA-X and PA proteins of the H1N1 subtype carry H1N1-specific and HA, NA, PA-X, PA, PB1-F2 and PB1 of the H3N2 subtype carry H3N2-specific HAd signatures. M1, M2, PB1-F2, PB1 and PB2 of H1N1 subtype, in addition to H1N1 signatures, also carry H3N2 signatures. Similarly M1, M2, NP, NS1, NEP and PB2 of H3N2 subtype were shown to carry both H3N2 and H1N1 HAd signatures.

Conclusions

To sum it up, we computationally constructed simple IF-THEN rule-based models that could distinguish between aa sequences of virus particles originating from avian and human hosts. From the rules we identified combinations of aa residues as signatures facilitating the adaptation to specific hosts. The identification of combinatorial aa signatures suggests that the process of adaptation of IAVs to a new host is more complex than previously suggested. The present study provides a basis for further detailed studies with the aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms providing the foundation for the adaptation process.
The competitiveness of the Uruguayan rural tourism sector and its potential to attract German tourists
Authors: Topolansky Barbe Federico , Gonzalez Triay Magdalena , Häufele Cornelia
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to assess the competitiveness of the Uruguayan rural tourism sector against its main competitors from Argentina and Brazil, as perceived by Uruguayan stakeholders on the supply side. The paper will also evaluate the potential of Uruguay as a rural tourism destination in attracting German tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

– Two different questionnaires were administered, one to Uruguayan rural tourism stakeholders and another one to potential German tourists in Germany.

Findings

– The findings indicate that the main strengths of Uruguayan rural tourism offer, compared to Argentina and Brazil, are the hospitality and friendliness of local people, the natural and cultural attractions and the country’s security and safety. Main weaknesses identified were the poor management of several destination components that are key to create a successful tourism destination and poor management of the “demand conditions” component of Dwyer and Kim’s (2003) integrated model.

Originality/value

– There is very limited research done on the competitiveness of Uruguay as a rural tourist destination in attracting foreign tourists (Mackinnon et al., 2009). The objective of this study is to partially fill this gap by assessing how competitive Uruguayan rural tourism is and evaluating whether Uruguay represents an attractive market for German tourists looking for agro tourism and farm holiday destinations. The German market was chosen because it is one of the top tourist-generating countries and one of the biggest spenders in international tourism (The World Tourism organization, 2010). Moreover, most tourists – from outside South America – selecting Uruguay as a tourist destination come from Germany, USA and Australia (Peralta, 2012).
Evaluation of the national higher education system’s competitiveness
Authors: Stonkiene Marija , Matkeviciene Renata , Vaiginiene Erika
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a model for the analysis of the competitiveness of the higher education system based on the application of M. E. Porter’s diamond model for researching the competitiveness of the national higher education system.

Design/methodology/approach

– For the research that is presented in the paper, several methods of theoretical research were used: induction, deduction and comparison.

Findings

– Application of the selected model provided factors for assessment of the performance of higher education institutions and their performance, as well as the ability of higher education institutions to monitor the environment and, depending on the changes in the environment, to introduce internal changes.

Originality/value

– The paper proposes a model for examining of the factors of competitiveness in the higher education system.
Impact of clusters on regional economic performance
Authors: Resbeut Mathieu , Gugler Philippe
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to examine the methodology used to identify clusters on the one hand and assess the economic impact that those may have on regions on the other hand.

Design/methodology/approach

– The influential work on “clusters”lead by Michael Porter since the 1990s has become a tool for promoting innovation and growth at national and regional level. Even if the theory has become very popular, a few empirical investigations were conducted since. In a recent study, Delgado, Porter and Stern developed a model to investigate the impact of cluster composition on the performance of regions in the USA. They find strong evidence that industries operating in a strong cluster environment perform better. The aim of this study is to improve the methodology used in evaluating the cluster environment and then to replicate their model and apply it to a highly competitive industry in Switzerland, namely, the precision goods sector. It enables to look closely at the importance of the microeconomic environment surrounding an industry at the regional level.

Findings

– In Switzerland, the precision industry forms a traded cluster in three different regions. The model then reveals that those regions perform better. The results show that industries located in or nearby regions with a strong cluster environment experience higher employment growth rates.

Originality/value

– It highlights the importance of the microeconomic environment even in small competitive countries.