bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contiguous US summer maximum temperature and heat stress trends in CRU and NOAA Climate Division data plus comparisons to reanalyses
Authors: Grotjahn Richard , Huynh Jonathan
Published: July 2018

Warming is a major climate change concern, but the impact of high maximum temperatures depends upon the air’s moisture content. Trends in maximum summertime temperature, moisture, and heat index are tracked over three time periods: 1900–2011, 1950–2011, and 1979–2011; these trends differ notably from annual temperature trends. Trends are emphasized from two CRU datasets (CRUTS3.25 and CRUTS4.01) and two reanalyses (ERA-20C and 20CRv2). Maximum temperature trends tend towards warming that is stronger over the Great Lakes, the interior western and the northeastern contiguous United States. A warming hole in the Midwest generally decreases in size and magnitude when heat stress trends are calculated because the region has increasing moisture. CRU and nearly all reanalyses find cooling in the northern high plains that is not found in NOAA Climate Division trends. These NOAA trends are captured better by CRUTS401. Moistening in the northeast amplifies the heat stress there. Elsewhere the moisture trends are less clear. Drying over northern Texas (after 1996) in CRUTS401 translates into decreasing heat stress there (less so in CRUTS325). Though other reanalyses are not intended for long-term trends, MERRA-2 and ERA-Interim match observed trends better than other reanalyses.
Whole genome SNP-associated signatures of local adaptation in honeybees of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Henriques Dora , Wallberg Andreas , Chávez-Galarza Julio , Johnston J. Spencer , Webster Matthew T. , Pinto M. Alice
Published: July 2018

The availability of powerful high-throughput genomic tools, combined with genome scans, has helped identifying genes and genetic changes responsible for environmental adaptation in many organisms, including the honeybee. Here, we resequenced 87 whole genomes of the honeybee native to Iberia and used conceptually different selection methods (Samβada, LFMM, PCAdapt, iHs) together within sillicoprotein modelling to search for selection footprints along environmental gradients. We found 670 outlier SNPs, most of which associated with precipitation, longitude and latitude. Over 88.7% SNPs laid outside exons and there was a significant enrichment in regions adjacent to exons and UTRs. Enrichment was also detected in exonic regions. Furthermore,in silicoprotein modelling suggests that several non-synonymous SNPs are likely direct targets of selection, as they lead to amino acid replacements in functionally important sites of proteins. We identified genomic signatures of local adaptation in 140 genes, many of which are putatively implicated in fitness-related functions such as reproduction, immunity, olfaction, lipid biosynthesis and circadian clock. Our genome scan suggests that local adaptation in the Iberian honeybee involves variations in regions that might alter patterns of gene expression and in protein-coding genes, which are promising candidates to underpin adaptive change in the honeybee.
Spontaneous formation of fluid escape pipes from subsurface reservoirs
Authors: Räss Ludovic , Simon Nina S. C. , Podladchikov Yury Y.
Published: July 2018

Ubiquitous observations of channelised fluid flow in the form of pipes or chimney-like features in sedimentary sequences provide strong evidence for significant transient permeability-generation in the subsurface. Understanding the mechanisms and dynamics for spontaneous flow localisation into fluid conductive chimneys is vital for natural fluid migration and anthropogenic fluid and gas operations, and in waste sequestration. Yet no model exists that can predict how, when, or where these conduits form. Here we propose a physical mechanism and show that pipes and chimneys can form spontaneously through hydro-mechanical coupling between fluid flow and solid deformation. By resolving both fluid flow and shear deformation of the matrix in three dimensions, we predict fluid flux and matrix stress distribution over time. The pipes constitute efficient fluid pathways with permeability enhancement exceeding three orders of magnitude. We find that in essentially impermeable shale (10−19 m2), vertical fluid migration rates in the high-permeability pipes or chimneys approach rates expected in permeable sandstones (10−15 m2). This previously unidentified fluid focusing mechanism bridges the gap between observations and established conceptual models for overcoming and destroying assumed impermeable barriers. This mechanism therefore has a profound impact on assessing the evolution of leakage pathways in natural gas emissions, for reliable risk assessment for long-term subsurface waste storage, or CO2 sequestration.
Weight loss and metabolic health effects from energy-restricted Mediterranean and Central-European diets in postmenopausal women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bajerska Joanna , Chmurzynska Agata , Muzsik Agata , Krzyżanowska Patrycja , Mądry Edyta , Malinowska Anna M , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: July 2018

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to examine the effect of two energy-restricted diets on body weight (BW), visceral fat (VF) loss, and the risk factors for metabolic syndrome. A total of 144 centrally obese postmenopausal women were assigned to the moderate in fat Mediterranean diet (MED) or to the Central European diet (CED), which is moderate in carbohydrates and high in dietary fiber (DF), for 16 weeks. BW, waist circumference and VF were significantly reduced by 8.8%, 7.0%, and 24.6%, respectively, over the trial (P < 0.001), with no difference between groups. A similar trend was seen for total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and blood pressure. Within each diet group, the more adherent participants lost significantly more BW than did their less adherent counterparts. VF was significantly reduced only in women who were more adherent to the CED, and the reduction in VF correlated with an increase in the proportion of DF. Short-term dietary treatment with the CED or the MED was associated with similar improvements in some anthropometric, lipid, and nonlipid parameters; however, adequate adherence to the prescribed diet is important in weight loss success and in achieving improvements in metabolic health.
Correction: Corrigendum: One Step Quantum Key Distribution Based on EPR Entanglement
Authors: Li Jian , Li Na , Li Lei-Lei , Wang Tao
Published: July 2018

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 28767; published online: 30 June 2016; updated: 18 July 2018 The Corrigendum published 25 April 2017 did not explain that the issue of entanglement swapping had been raised previously by Pathak and Thapliyal1.
Graphite nanoparticle as nanoquencher for 17β-estradiol detection using shortened aptamer sequence
Authors: Qi Xiaoli , Hu Hui , Yang Yuesuo , Piao Yunxian
Published: July 2018

Here a shortened aptamer was used as the recognition element and a graphite nanoparticle as the nanoquencher for constructing a FRET based aptasensor to detect 17β-estradiol.
Disposable fabric-based electrochemical sensors fabricated from wax-transfer-printed fluidic cells and stencil-printed electrodes
Authors: Downs Corey , Nejely Arianna , Fu Elain
Published: July 2018

Novel combination of wax transfer-printed channels and stencil-printed electrodes for the creation of robust and reproducible fabric-based electrochemical sensors.
Silver-catalyzed stereoselective formation of glycosides using glycosyl ynenoates as donors
Authors: Dong Xu , Chen Li , Zheng Zhitong , Ma Xu , Luo Zaigang , Zhang Liming
Published: July 2018

A silver-catalyzed glycosylation reaction is developed by employing a readily accessible and stable glycosyl ynenoate donor and is mostly high yielding.
Elastic flexibility tuning via interaction factor modulation in molecular crystals
Authors: Mishra Manish Kumar , Kadambi Sourabh B. , Ramamurty Upadrasta , Ghosh Soumyajit
Published: July 2018

We report the design of a series of nonhalogenated and halogenated molecular crystals with specific structural features, which are essential for pronounced elasticity.
An iridium complex-based probe for photoluminescence lifetime imaging of human carboxylesterase 2 in living cells
Authors: Yan Zihe , Wang Jinyu , Zhang Yanxin , Zhang Sichun , Qiao Juan , Zhang Xinrong
Published: July 2018

Human carboxylesterase 2 is detected and imaged in living cells using a photoluminescence lifetime probe for the first time.
Structural transition induced enhancement of magnetization and magnetoresistance in epitaxial (Pr0.5Ba0.5MnO3)1−x:(CeO2)x vertically aligned thin films
Authors: Cheng Sheng , Shen Lvkang , Ma Chunrui , Cheng Shaodong , Dai Yanzhu , Mi Shaobo , Liu Ming , Jia Chunlin
Published: July 2018

Structural transition induced enhancement of magnetization and magnetoresistance in (Pr0.5Ba0.5MnO3)1−x:(CeO2)x vertically aligned films.
In situ local assessment of laser irradiation-induced phase transformations in hexagonal MoO3 microrods
Authors: Almodóvar P. , Díaz-Guerra C. , Ramírez-Castellanos J. , González-Calbet J. M.
Published: July 2018

Different Mo oxides obtained on desired locations by laser irradiation of h-MoO3 microrods, as monitored by micro-Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy.
Single and twinned plates of 2D layered BiI3 for use as nanoscale pressure sensors
Authors: D. Prasad Muvva , Sangani L. D. Varma , Batabyal Sudip K. , Krishna M. Ghanashyam
Published: July 2018

Single and twinned plates of 2D layered BiI3 have been found to be piezoelectric and can be used as a nanoscale pressure sensor.
The influence of the secondary building linker geometry on the photochromism of naphthalenediimide-based metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Fu Chen , Wang Hai-Yu , Zhang Guo-Shuai , Li Li , Sun Ya-Nan , Fu Jia-Wei , Zhang Hong
Published: July 2018

The photochromism of three MOFs based on NDI chromophores is mainly induced by two kinds of non-covalent intermolecular interactions.
Enhancing sodium ionic conductivity in tetragonal-Na3PS4by halogen doping: a first principles investigation
Authors: Huang He , Wu Hong-Hui , Wang Xinjiang , Huang Baoling , Zhang Tong-Yi
Published: July 2018

The sodium ionic conductivity of t-Na3PS4can be significantly enhanced by introducing Na ion vacanciesviahalogen dopants.
On the simulation of vibrationally resolved electronic spectra of medium-size molecules: the case of styryl substituted BODIPYs
Authors: Fortino Mariagrazia , Bloino Julien , Collini Elisabetta , Bolzonello Luca , Trapani Mariachiara , Faglioni Francesco , Pedone Alfonso
Published: July 2018

Vibronic spectra of two BODIPY derivatives were computed using both Time-Independent (TI) and Time-Dependent (TD) formalisms including solvent and temperature effects with several DFT functionals.
Dynamics of the lignin glass transition
Authors: Vural Derya , Smith Jeremy C. , Petridis Loukas
Published: July 2018

Despite lignin being a heterogenous polyphenolic, its glass transition obeys well-established polymer theory concepts.
Examining the role of acceptor molecule structure in self-assembled bilayers: surface loading, stability, energy transfer, and upconverted emission
Authors: Zhou Yan , Ayad Suliman , Ruchlin Cory , Posey Victoria , Hill Sean P. , Wu Qiang , Hanson Kenneth
Published: July 2018

This report provides insights into the TTA-UC process with respect to the structure of the acceptor molecule in self-assembled bilayer films.
Experimental and theoretical exploration of magnetic exchange interactions and single-molecule magnetic behaviour of bis(η1:η2:μ2-carboxylate)GdIII2/DyIII2 systems
Authors: Ghosh Sagar , Mandal Shuvankar , Singh Mukesh Kumar , Liu Cai-Ming , Rajaraman Gopalan , Mohanta Sasankasekhar
Published: July 2018

This investigation demonstrates differences in SMM properties and nature of magnetic exchange in closely related DyIII2/GdIII2 compounds.
Improved sludge dewaterability using persulfate activated by humic acid supported nanoscale zero-valent iron: effect on sludge characteristics and reaction mechanisms
Authors: Li Hao , Song Lei , Han Baohong , Song Hongwei
Published: July 2018

Sludge dewatering was efficiently enhanced by nZVI/HA-PS conditioning, and nZVI/HA-PS exhibited the synergistic effect of advanced oxidization and skeleton building.
“Sweet” ionic liquid gels: materials for sweetening of fuels
Authors: Billeci Floriana , D'Anna Francesca , Gunaratne H. Q. Nimal , Plechkova Natalia V. , Seddon Kenneth R.
Published: July 2018

Ionic liquid gels, which are derived from renewable sugars, have been efficiently used as sorbent systems in desulfurisation of fuels.
Li- and Mn-rich layered oxide cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries: a review from fundamentals to research progress and applications
Authors: Pan Hongge , Zhang Shiming , Chen Jian , Gao Mingxia , Liu Yongfeng , Zhu Tiejun , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: July 2018

Li- and Mn-rich layered oxides (LMRO) have drawn much attention for application as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to their high-energy density of over 1000 W h kg−1.
Phase transition and molecular assembly structure of ellagic acid ester derivatives
Authors: Tokutomi Hisashi , Wu JianYun , Takeda Takashi , Hoshino Norihisa , Akutagawa Tomoyuki
Published: July 2018

Ellagic acid and its esters were examined in terms of phase transition, electronic structure, dielectric constant, and molecular assembly.
Palladium nanoparticles immobilized on halloysite nanotubes covered by a multilayer network for catalytic applications
Authors: Massaro Marina , Colletti Carmelo G. , Buscemi Gabriella , Cataldo Salvatore , Guernelli Susanna , Lazzara Giuseppe , Liotta Leonarda F. , Parisi Filippo , Pettignano Alberto , Riela Serena
Published: July 2018

Halloysite nanotubes were functionalized with bis-vinyl imidazolium salts and PdNPs to obtain an efficient catalyst for fine chemical synthesis.
A biomimetic surface with switchable contact angle and adhesion for transfer and storage of microdroplets
Authors: Gao Hanpeng , Liu Yan , Li Shuyi , Wang Guoyong , Han Zhiwu , Ren Luquan
Published: July 2018

The as-prepared superhydrophobic surface has a switchable contact angle and adhesion with good stability and corrosion resistance.
Diverse applications of TMB-based sensing probes
Authors: Huang Li , Cao Ying-Juan , Sun Xiang-Ying , Liu Bin , Shen Jiang-Shan
Published: July 2018

Two TMB derivatives, TMBS and TMBB, have been successfully synthesized and employed to develop dual-modal spectral sensing systems for detecting multi-targets including pH, CO2gas and glucose.
Diisopropylethylamine-triggered, highly efficient, self-catalyzed regioselective acylation of carbohydrates and diols
Authors: Ren Bo , Gan Lu , Zhang Li , Yan Ningning , Dong Hai
Published: July 2018

A diisopropylethylamine (DIPEA)-triggered, self-catalyzed, regioselective acylation of carbohydrates and diols is presented.
Cu(i)-Catalyzed stereoselective synthesis of trisubstituted Z-enol esters via interrupting the 1,3-O-transposition reaction
Authors: Zhang Changyuan , Chen Lianfen , Chen Kai , Wang Chuntao , Xu Zurong , Jiang Huanfeng , Zhu Shifa
Published: July 2018

An efficient Cu(i)-catalyzed stereoselective synthesis of trisubstituted Z-enol esters via interrupting the 1,3-O-transposition process is reported, which provided a convenient approach to highly functionalized Z-enol esters.
Half-metallicity of the (001), (111) and (110) surfaces of CoRuMnSi and interface half-metallicity of CoRuMnSi/CdS
Authors: Khalaf Al-zyadi Jabbar M. , Kadhim Ammar A. , Yao Kai-Lun
Published: July 2018

Recent studies have indicated that the quaternary Heusler alloy CoRuMnSi shows a half-metallic ferromagnetism (Kundu et al., Sci. Rep., 7, (2017), 1803).
Significant improvement in TiO2 photocatalytic activity through controllable ZrO2 deposition
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Patel Rajankumar L. , Liang Xinhua
Published: July 2018

The photocatalytic activity of ZrO2 deposited anatase TiO2 nanoparticles was evaluated based on the degradation of methylene blue solution under UV light.
ZnSe nanoparticles dispersed in reduced graphene oxides with enhanced electrochemical properties in lithium/sodium ion batteries
Authors: Cao Xi , Li Aijun , Yang Yang , Chen Jitao
Published: July 2018

ZnSe-rGO nanocomposite with ZnSe dispersed in reduced graphene oxides is studied as an anode for lithium and sodium ion batteries (LIBs/SIBs).
Structure transformation by sp2 hydrocarbon assisted carbon nanotube growth
Authors: Moon Sook Young , Kim Woo Sik , Kim Chung Soo
Published: July 2018

In this study, we investigated the effect of hydrocarbon species composition on carbon nanotube (CNT) growth using an iron catalyst by chemical vapor deposition.
Synthesis of switchable intelligent molecularly imprinted polymers with selective adsorption of ethyl carbamate and their application in electrochemical sensor analysis
Authors: Guo Ming , Zhang Xinge , Zheng Yilu , Huang Dinghai
Published: July 2018

A cyclodextrin aldehyde based molecularly imprinted polymer with thermally responsive Diels–Alder (DA) linkages of grafted furan-type dienes was polymerized. The synthesized DA-MIP has dienophile characteristics and the specific adsorption of ethyl carbamate (EC) can be switched on or off simply by thermal adjustment.
Xyloplains A–F, six new guaiane-type sesquiterpenoid dimers from Xylopia vielana
Authors: Xie Yang-Guo , Zhang Weiyue , Zhu Sheng-lan , Cheng Tao-fang , Wu Guo-jing , Muhammad Ishaq , Yan Shi-kai , Zhang Yan , Jin Hui-zi , Zhang Wei-dong
Published: July 2018

Six new guaiane dimers, xyloplains A–F (1–6), with connecting patterns via two direct C–C bonds (C-1 to C-3’, C-2 to C-1’), were isolated from the roots of Xylopia vielana. Their structures were determined by the NMR data, X-ray diffraction and circular dichroism experiments.
A green route for the cross-coupling of azide anions with aryl halides under both base and ligand-free conditions: exceptional performance of a Cu2O–CuO–Cu–C nanocomposite
Authors: Karimzadeh Morteza , Niknam Khodabakhsh , Manouchehri Neda , Tarokh Dariush
Published: July 2018

Ligand-free and base-free conditions were used for the preparation of aryl azides using the cross-coupling of sodium azide and aryl halides catalysed by Cu2O–CuO–Cu–C.
Correction: Enhanced biohydrogen production from nutrient-free anaerobic fermentation medium with edible fungal pretreated rice straw
Authors: Sheng Tao , Zhao Lei , Gao Lingfang , Liu Wenzong , Wu Guofeng , Wu Jieting , Wang Aijie
Published: July 2018

Correction for ‘Enhanced biohydrogen production from nutrient-free anaerobic fermentation medium with edible fungal pretreated rice straw’ by Tao Sheng et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 22924–22930.
RAFT polymer cross-coupling with boronic acids
Authors: Golf Hartwig , O'Shea Riley , Braybrook Carl , Hutt Oliver , Lupton David W. , Hooper Joel F.
Published: July 2018

A one step modification of RAFT polymers to give functionalised materials.
PDMS-coated hypercrosslinked porous organic polymers modified via double postsynthetic acidifications for ammonia capture
Authors: Kang Dong Won , Kang Minjung , Moon Minkyu , Kim Hyojin , Eom Sunhwi , Choe Jong Hyeak , Lee Woo Ram , Hong Chang Seop
Published: July 2018

Double postsynthetic acidifications of a hypercrosslinked polymer afforded record high NH3 adsorption capacity per surface area. Its PDMS coating provided an 40-fold enhancement of low-pressure NH3 adsorption capacity and hydrophobicity.
Nanowell-mediated two-dimensional liquid chromatography enables deep proteome profiling of <1000 mammalian cells
Authors: Dou Maowei , Zhu Ying , Liyu Andrey , Liang Yiran , Chen Jing , Piehowski Paul D. , Xu Kerui , Zhao Rui , Moore Ronald J. , Atkinson Mark A. , Mathews Clayton E. , Qian Wei-Jun , Kelly Ryan T.
Published: July 2018

Miniaturized multidimensional peptide separations can greatly increase the coverage in proteome profiling for trace samples.
A surfactant-assisted strategy to tailor Li-ion charge transfer interfacial resistance for scalable all-solid-state Li batteries
Authors: Zhou Chengtian , Samson Alfred Junio , Hofstetter Kyle , Thangadurai Venkataraman
Published: July 2018

An economical and simple technique to mitigate the solid electrolyte–lithium metal anode interfacial charge transfer resistance.
Nanoparticle-stabilised emulsions: droplet armouring vs. droplet bridging
Authors: Bizmark Navid , Ioannidis Marios A.
Published: July 2018

We speculate that the ability of small nanoparticles to stabilise emulsions via droplet bridging is controlled by the balance between an energy increase, due to the interaction between two oil–water interfaces in close proximity through surface forces, and an energy decrease due to the adsorption of a bridging particle on two oil–water interfaces.
AMPK blunts chronic heart failure by inhibiting autophagy
Authors: Li Yanhui , Wang Yan , Zou Man , Chen Cong , Chen Yili , Xue Ruicong , Dong Yugang , Liu Chen
Published: July 2018

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a serine/threonine protein kinase, has been shown to exert a protective effect against cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Our previous reports have demonstrated that AMPK can inhibit cardiac hypertrophy and block the development of heart failure by promoting autophagy. However, other investigators have demonstrated that overactive and dysregulated autophagy may also contribute to the onset and exacerbation of heart failure. Thus, a major goal of the present investigation is to explore how AMPK regulates autophagy in heart failure. First, heart failure was induced in mice by 4 weeks of pressure overload; AMPK activation was subsequently induced by injecting 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide 1-β-d-ribonucleotide (AICAR) after the establishment of chronic heart failure. We showed that AMPK activation significantly attenuated the progression of heart failure and improved cardiac function, which was accompanied by decreased autophagy levels in the failing hearts. Additionally, we demonstrated that the treatment with AICAR inhibited phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1) downstream effectors 4E-binding protein1 (4EBP1), and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K). A major action of AICAR was significantly to activate AKT (Ser473), the downstream substrate of mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2). In conclusion, the data suggest that AMPK improved cardiac function during the development of chronic heart failure by attenuating autophagy, potentially via mTORC2 activation and the downstream effects.
Multi‐attribute analysis on voltage sag insurance mechanisms and their feasibility for sensitive customers
Authors: Xiao Xian‐Yong , Chen Yun‐Zhu , Wang Ying , Ma Yuan‐Qian
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, more and more high‐tech enterprises pay great attention to the enormous losses and risks caused by voltage sag. There is an urgent desire for voltage sag insurance. However, a feasible insurance mechanism is not yet available. Relationships among stakeholders (customers, insurance institution, power utility and government) are studied based on the analysis of insurability of voltage sag loss risk, and three possible voltage sag insurance mechanisms are proposed. Multi‐objective two‐stage decision‐making method is introduced to combine the expectations of attributes of mechanisms for different stakeholders; the proposed method can simplify the fuzziness and the complexity of evaluating the process. This method combines the integrating scattered information into effective evaluation information, and it can reflect the recognition of different mechanisms by all the stakeholders objectively. This method can determine voltage sag insurance mechanisms, which are with the high feasibility to satisfy the requirement of all the stakeholders and to make sure all attributes are in good condition. Finally, the results of case studies for three high‐tech customers located in the high‐tech park have proved the correctness and rationality of the recommended insurance mechanism.
Evaluating the capability of distribution networks to maintain power quality and voltage level, case study: Alborz Electric Power Distribution Company
Authors: Jamshidieini Bahman , Rezaie Kamran , Fotuhi Firuzabad Mahmud
Published: July 2018

Distribution system operators that seek operational excellence are supposed to design and implement capable processes throughout their value stream and assess how well their real services match the design specifications. Process capability analysis is a critical stage in systematic and sophisticated quality engineering approaches such as six sigma, which are based on quantitative studies. The capability of a distribution network to maintain the power quality and voltage level within an acceptable range is one of the most important aspects of design and utilisation of electricity distribution network. Capability analysis has been successfully used in the previous studies to assess the quality of conformance in the power distribution network. However, these studies were limited to a voltage level and other aspects of quality such as total harmonic distortion were neglected. In addition, parametric methods were not available to overcome the problem of multimodality in voltage distribution, especially in the presence of distributed generation. In the current study, for the first time, a parametric approach based on decomposing complex distributions to a few Gaussian distributions by artificial bee colony optimisation were used for evaluating the capability of the distribution network to maintain voltage level and power quality indices in predefined ranges.
Incremental PMU placement considering reliability of power system network using analytical hierarchical process
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Tyagi Barjeev , Kumar Vishal , Chohan Sunita
Published: July 2018

This study presents a methodology for enhancing the observability of interconnected power network with the incorporation of component reliability for incremental phasor measurement units (PMUs) placement. Initially, multiple optimal solutions for complete observability have been determined with the use of genetic algorithm. An overall system reliability index has been proposed for the selection of the most suitable solution among the determined solutions. Furthermore, the ranking of the buses for PMU placement has been performed using the proposed reliability observability criteria. An index determined by series–parallel combinations of different components of the network has been used for this purpose. To achieve effective multi‐phasing of PMU placement analytical hierarchical process has been utilised. This strengthens the observability through most reliable buses during the initial phases. The proposed methodology is illustrated on IEEE 14‐bus and eastern region Indian power grid 90‐bus real system.
Image segmentation algorithm based on superpixel clustering
Authors: Cong Lin , Ding Shifei , Wang Lijuan , Zhang Aijuan , Jia Weikuan
Published: July 2018

The main task of image segmentation is to partition an image into disjoint sets of pixels called clusters. Spectral clustering algorithm has been developed rapidly in recent years and it has been widely used in image segmentation. The traditional spectral clustering algorithm requires huge amount of computation to process colour images with high resolution. While one possible solution is reducing image resolution, but it will lead to the loss of image information and reduce segmentation performance. To overcome the problem of traditional spectral clustering, an image segmentation algorithm based on superpixel clustering is proposed. Firstly, the algorithm uses the superpixel preprocessing technique to quickly divide the image into a certain number of superpixel regions with specific information. Then, the similarity matrix is used to provide the input information to the spectral clustering algorithm to cluster the superpixel regions and get the final image segmentation results. The experiment results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively improve the performance in image segmentation compared with the traditional spectral clustering algorithm, and finally the substantial improvement has been obtained in respect of computational complexity, processing time and the overall segmentation effect.
On multitrack fusion under unknown correlation
Authors: Bakr Muhammad Abu , Lee Sukhan
Published: July 2018

The recent proliferation of distributed sensor networks makes the multitrack fusion under unknown correlation highly significant. There have been two major approaches developed to date for the multitrack fusion under unknown correlation: an approach based on maximum mutual information and another based on the minimum overestimate of covariance intersection. Unfortunately, the former is applicable only to two tracks while the latter becomes ineffective for multiple tracks with excessive overestimation. This paper presents solutions for fusing an arbitrary number of tracks under unknown correlation. First, a maximum bound of cross‐covariance between two tracks of unknown correlation is computed analytically, such that the computed maximum bound is used for fusion with the fused track less conservative than the one provided by covariance intersection method. For more than two tracks, the above two‐track method can be sequentially applied for fusion. However, the sequential fusion results in a sequence‐dependent and suboptimal solution. Therefore, this paper presents several alternative solutions that provide a better trade‐off between optimality and consistency in fusion. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The association of the Hale sector boundary with RHESSI solar flares and active longitudes
Authors: Loumou K. , Hannah I. G. , Hudson H. S.
Published: July 2018

Context. The heliospheric magnetic field (HMF) is structured into large sectors of positive and negative polarity. The parts of the boundary between these sectors where the change in polarity matches that of the leading-to-following sunspot polarity in that solar hemisphere, are called Hale sector boundaries (HSB).

Aims. We investigate the flare occurrence rate near HSBs and the association between HSBs and active longitudes.

Methods. Previous work determined the times HSBs were at solar central meridian, using the detection of the HMF sector boundary crossing at the Earth. In addition to this, we use a new approach which finds the HSB locations at all times by determining them from potential field source surface (PFSS) extrapolations of photospheric magnetograms. We use the RHESSI X-ray flare list for comparison to the HSB as it provides accurate flare locations over 14 years, from February 2002 to February 2016, covering both Cycles 23 and 24. For the active longitude positions we use previously published work based on sunspot observations.

Results. We find that the two methods of determining the HSB generally agree and that 41% (Cycle 23) and 47% (Cycle 24) of RHESSI flares occur within 30° of the PFSS determined-HSB. The behaviour of the HSBs varies over the two Cycles studied, and as expected they swap in hemisphere as the Cycles change. The HSBs and active longitudes do overlap but not consistently. They often move at different rates relative to each other (and the Carrington solar rotation rate) and these vary over each Cycle. The HSBs provide a useful additional activity indicator, particularly during periods when active longitudes are difficult to determine.
Three-dimensional simulations of solar magneto-convection including effects of partial ionization
Authors: Khomenko E. , Vitas N. , Collados M. , de Vicente A.
Published: July 2018

In recent decades, REALISTIC three-dimensional radiative-magnetohydrodynamic simulations have become the dominant theoretical tool for understanding the complex interactions between the plasma and magnetic field on the Sun. Most of such simulations are based on approximations of magnetohydrodynamics, without directly considering the consequences of the very low degree of ionization of the solar plasma in the photosphere and bottom chromosphere. The presence of a large amount of neutrals leads to a partial decoupling of the plasma and magnetic field. As a consequence, a series of non-ideal effects, i.e., the ambipolar diffusion, Hall effect, and battery effect, arise. The ambipolar effect is the dominant in the solar chromosphere. We report on the first three-dimensional realistic simulations of magneto-convection including ambipolar diffusion and battery effects. The simulations are carried out using the newly developed MANCHA3Dcode. Our results reveal that ambipolar diffusion causes measurable effects on the amplitudes of waves excited by convection in the simulations, on the absorption of Poynting flux and heating, and on the formation of chromospheric structures. We provide a low limit on the chromospheric temperature increase owing to the ambipolar effect using the simulations with battery-excited dynamo fields.
An atlas of cool supergiants from the Magellanic Clouds and typical interlopers
Authors: Dorda Ricardo , Negueruela Ignacio , González-Fernández Carlos , Marco Amparo
Published: July 2018

We present an atlas composed of more than 1500 spectra of late-type stars (spectral types from G to M) observed simultaneously in the optical and calcium triplet spectral ranges. These spectra were obtained as part of a survey to search for cool supergiants in the Magellanic Clouds and were taken over four epochs. We provide the spectral and luminosity classification for each spectrum (71% are supergiants, 13% are giants or luminous giants, 4% are carbon or S stars, and the remaining 12% are foreground stars of lesser luminosities). We also provide a detailed guide for the spectral classification of luminous late-type stars, the result of the extensive classification work done for the atlas. Although this guide is based on classical criteria, we have put them together and re-elaborated them for modern CCD-spectra as these criteria were scattered among many different works and mainly conceived for use with photographic plate spectra. The result is a systematic, well-tested process for identifying and classifying luminous late-type stars, illustrated with CCD spectra of standard stars and the classifications of our own catalogue.
Giant burst of methanol maser in S255IR-NIRS3
Authors: Szymczak M. , Olech M. , Wolak P. , Gérard E. , Bartkiewicz A.
Published: July 2018

Context. High-mass young stellar objects (HMYSOs) can undergo accretion episodes that strongly affect the star evolution, the dynamics of the disk, and its chemical evolution. Recently reported extraordinary bursts in the methanol maser emission may be the observational signature of accretion events in deeply embedded HMYSOs.

Aims. We analyze the light curve of 6.7 GHz methanol masers in S255IR-NIRS3 during the 2015–2016 burst.

Methods. 8.5-yr monitoring data with an average sampling interval of 5 days were obtained with the Torun 32 m radio telescope. Archival data were added, extending the time series to ~27 yr.

Results. The maser emission showed moderate (25–30%) variability on timescales of months to years over ~23 yr since its discovery. The main burst was preceded by a 1 yr increase of the total flux density by a factor of 2.5, then it grew by a factor of 10 over ~0.4 yr and declined by a factor of 8 during the consecutive 2.4 yr. The peak maser luminosity was a factor of 24.5 higher than the pre-burst quiescent value. The light curves of individual features showed considerable diversity but indicated a general trend of suppression of the maser emission at blueshifted (<4.7 km s−1) velocities when the redshifted emission rapidly grew and new emission features appeared at velocities >5.8 km s−1. This new emission provided a contribution of about 80% to the maser luminosity around the peak of the burst. The duration of the burst at the extreme redshifted velocities of 7.1–8.7 km s−1 was from 0.9 to 1.9 yr, and its lower limit for the other features was ~3.9 yr.

Conclusions. The onset of the maser burst exactly coincides with that of the infrared burst estimated from the motion of the light echo. This strongly supports the radiative pumping scheme of the maser transition. The growth of the maser luminosity is the result of an increasing volume of gas where the maser inversion is achieved.
The inclusion structure of partially lossy queue monoids and their trace submonoids
Authors: Köcher Chris , Kuske Dietrich , Prianychnykova Olena
Published: July 2018

We model the behavior of a lossy fifo-queue as a monoid of transformations that are induced by sequences of writing and reading. To have a common model for reliable and lossy queues, we split the alphabet of the queue into two parts: the forgettable letters and the letters that are transmitted reliably. We describe this monoid by means of a confluent and terminating semi-Thue system and then study some of the monoid’s algebraic properties. In particular, we characterize completely when one such monoid can be embedded into another as well as which trace monoids occur as submonoids. Surprisingly, these are precisely those trace monoids that embed into the direct product of two free monoids – which gives a partial answer to a question raised by Diekert et al. at STACS 1995.
Hildegard – ein Mythos?
Authors: Hildegard Von Bingen
Published: July 2018

Historische Quellen legen die Vermutung nahe, dass Hildegard von Bingen vielmehr eigenwillige Denkerin als Universalgelehrte war. Ob Dinkelbier oder Hildegard-Fasten: Viele Nahrungsmittel, Konzepte und Rezepte werden fälschlicherweise Hildegard zugeschrieben. Kaum bekannt ist, dass sich Hildegard intensiv der Heilwirkung von Bäumen, zum Beispiel Esskastanie, Olive und Birne, widmete.
Expression of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha (PPARα) in Non-Somatotroph Pituitary Tumours and the Effects of PPARα Agonists on MMQ Cells
Authors: Polidoro Michela , Rotondi Sandra , Morace Roberta , Rostomyan Liliya , Colapietro Alessandro , Arcella Antonietta , Ventura Luca , Angelucci Adriano , Giangaspero Felice , Esposito Vincenzo , Beckers Albert , Jaffrain-Rea Marie-Lise
Published: July 2018

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) has been involved in the regulation of somatotroph tumour cells and may be targeted by different drugs, some of them are in current clinical use. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of PPARα in additional phenotypes of pituitary adenomas (PA), the relationship between PPARα and its potential molecular partner aryl hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein (AIP) in these tumours, and the effects of PPARα agonists on lactotroph cells. Seventy-five human PA – 57 non-functioning (NFPA) and 18 prolactinomas (PRL-PA) – were characterised for PPARα and AIP expression by real time RT-PCR and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the effects of fenofibrate and WY 14 643 on MMQ cells were studied in vitro. PPARα was expressed in a majority of PA. PPARα immunostaining was observed in 93.7% PRL-PA vs. 60.6% NFPA (p=0.016), the opposite being found for AIP (83.3% in NFPA vs. 43.7% in PRL-PA, p=0.003). PPARα expression was unrelated to gonadotroph differentiation in NFPA, but positively correlated with tumour volume in PRL-PA. Both drugs significantly reduced MMQ cell growth at high concentrations (100–200 μM). At the same time, despite modest stimulating effects on PRL secretion were observed, these were overcome by the reduction in cell number. In conclusion, PPARα is commonly expressed by PRL-PA and NFPA, regardless of AIP, and may represent a new target of PPARα agonists.
Assessment of Needs for Counseling After Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease – A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Kovacevic Alexander , Simmelbauer Andreas , Starystach Sebastian , Elsässer Michael , Sohn Christof , Müller Andreas , Bär Stefan , Gorenflo Matthias
Published: July 2018

Background Congenital heart disease is the most common cause of major congenital anomalies. After prenatal diagnosis effective counseling is crucial. However, little research has been undertaken in determining the most effective techniques.

Objectives To develop a questionnaire suitable to assess parental needs for counseling.

Material and Methods A questionnaire was developed by pediatric cardiologists, maternal-fetal-medicine specialists and sociologists. Likert scaled and open-ended questions are combined with socio-demographical data. The questionnaire was prospectively pilot-tested on 17 parents. We present first analyses of n=41 parents.

Results Response rate was 89.5%. The dependent variable “effective counseling” was measured in 5 dimensions (transfer of medical information, trust in medical staff, transparency of treatment process, coping resources and perceived situational control). The questionnaire’s internal consistency is high (Cronbach’s alpha>0.7). First analyses show that 44.7% perceived counseling as successful. Transfer of medical information seems difficult (36.6% success rate). Trust in medical staff was high with 75%.

Conclusions This newly developed tool measures counseling success in five dimensions. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended as methodological expertise is essential for constructing adequate tests. Preliminary data indicate that transfer of medical information is not easily achieved. Further analyses are needed to identify factors that determine counseling success.
Stadiengerechte Therapie der akuten Divertikulitis anhand der neuen Klassifikation der Divertikelkrankheit
Authors: Lock Johan , Schneider Patrick , Lang Stefanie , Wagner Eyleen , Pelz Jörg , Reibetanz Joachim , Germer Christoph
Published: July 2018

Hintergrund In den vergangenen Jahren gab es einen deutlichen Wandel in den Therapieempfehlungen der akuten Divertikulitis. Die stadiengerechte Therapie orientiert sich an der neuen Klassifikation der Divertikelkrankheit aus der aktuellen Leitlinie.

Patienten und Methode Erfasst wurden alle Patienten, die in den Jahren 2010 bis 2014 wegen einer akuten Divertikulitis im Universitätsklinikum Würzburg behandelt wurden. Einschlusskriterium für die Auswertung war das Vorhandensein einer Computertomografie zur Stadieneinteilung.

Ergebnisse Gut die Hälfte der untersuchten Patienten (n = 135, 52,9%) hatte bei Aufnahme eine akute unkomplizierte Divertikulitis, 112 (43,2%) wiesen eine gedeckte Perforation (Mikroabszess n = 63, 24,3%; bzw. Makroabszess n = 49, 18,9%), 12 Patienten (4,6%) eine freie Perforation auf. Bei insgesamt 150 (57,9%) Patienten war es der 1. Schub einer Divertikulitis, eine gedeckte (66,1%) oder eine freie Perforation (75,0%) trat dabei überdurchschnittlich häufig als Erstmanifestation auf. Knapp zwei Drittel (66,4%, n = 168) der Patienten wurden im Verlauf sigmareseziert.

Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung Trotz des Trends hin zu einer konservativen Therapie der akuten Divertikulitis bleibt die (elektive) Sigmaresektion nach wie vor ein zentraler Bestandteil in der Therapie über alle Stadien hinweg. Die Indikationsstellung ist jedoch heutzutage deutlich differenzierter und erfordert neben der individuellen Klassifikation der Entzündungssituation auch Kenntnisse über die individuelle krankheitsspezifische Prognose in Bezug auf Rezidivwahrscheinlichkeit und Lebensqualität.
Innovation und Evaluation in der Chirurgie
Authors: Probst Pascal , Mihaljevic Andre L. , Neudecker Jens , Diener Markus K.
Published: July 2018

Innovation und Evaluation werden in der Chirurgie häufig als Gegenspieler betrachtet. Vermeintlich hemme die Evaluation durch prospektive Studien die
Innovationskraft des einzelnen Chirurgen oder der Industrie. Dieser Artikel beleuchtet das Themengebiet der Evaluation durch Studien in der Chirurgie und zeigt
auf, inwiefern Evaluation hilft, Innovation zu fördern und dabei einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Verteilung der Ressourcen im Gesundheitswesen leistet. Nur im
Zusammenspiel zwischen Innovation und Evaluation kann sichergestellt werden, dass es nicht nur vorangeht, sondern auch die Richtung stimmt.
Delitpyrones: α-Pyrone Derivatives from a Freshwater Delitschia sp.
Authors: Rivera-Chávez José , El-Elimat Tamam , Gallagher Jacklyn , Graf Tyler , Fournier Jacques , Panigrahi Gati , Deep Gagan , Bunch Rick , Raja Huzefa , Oberlies Nicholas
Published: July 2018

In research focused on the discovery of new chemical diversity from freshwater fungi, a peak library was built and evaluated against a prostate cancer cell line, E006AA-hT, which was derived from an African American, as this population is disproportionately affected by prostate cancer. The chemical study of the bioactive sample accessioned as G858 (Delitschia sp.) led to the isolation of eight new α-pyrone derivatives (1 – 7, and 11), as well as the new 3S*,4S*-7-ethyl-4,8-dihydroxy-3,6-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one (15). In addition, the known compounds 5-(3-S-hydroxybutyl)-4-methoxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one (8), 5-(3-oxobutyl)-4-methoxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one (9), pyrenocine I (10), 5-butyl-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methoxy-2H-pyran-2-one (12), sporidesmin A (13), 6-ethyl-2,7-dimethoxyjuglone (14), artrichitin (16), and lipopeptide 15G256ε (17) were also obtained. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated using a set of spectroscopic (NMR) and spectrometric (HRMS) methods. The absolute configuration of the most abundant member of each subclass of compounds was assigned through a modified Mosherʼs ester method. For 15, the relative configuration was assigned based on analysis of 3
J values. Compounds 1, 2, 5 – 14, 16, and 17 were evaluated against the cancer cell line E006AA-hT under hypoxic conditions, where compound 13 inhibited cell proliferation at a concentration of 2.5 µM.
Palladium-Catalyzed Regioselective Coupling of Secondary Propargyl Carbonates and Ethyl 2-(pyridin-2-yl)acetate Derivatives: Facile Access to C-3 Benzylated Indolizines
Authors: Yang Yuzhu , Wu Ting , Fang Youlai
Published: July 2018

A palladium-catalyzed ligand controlled regioselective ­coupling reaction of secondary propargyl carbonates and ethyl 2-(pyridin-2-yl)acetate derivatives has been described, leading to C-3 benzyl­ated indolizines for the first time in moderate to good yields. DBFphos as the ligand is crucial to this high regioselective annulation reaction, and a plausible reaction mechanism has been proposed.
Dynamic Covalent Chemistry within Biphenyl Scaffolds: Effects from Endocyclic to Exocyclic Sulfonamides
Authors: You Lei , Ni Cailing , Wang Meng
Published: July 2018

There is unabated interest in developing new strategies for the control of atropisomers despite the rich history of atropisomerism. We recently introduced dynamic covalent reactions (DCRs) within biphenyl skeletons for the incorporation and chirality recognition of multiple classes of mononucleophiles. To expand the scope of this strategy, the sulfonamide unit was switched from an endocyclic to an exocyclic position, and the influence of the resulting DCRs on chiral induction was investigated. The intramolecular equilibrium between the open aldehyde and its cyclic hemiaminal favored the ring form, and excellent chirality transfer from the hemiaminal stereocenter to the helical twist of the biphenyl was revealed. The modulation of unique dual reactivity then allowed the realization of DCRs of a diverse set of amines and alcohols. The degree of chirality induction was further explored by employing chiral substrates, affording significant circular dichroism signals.
Sulfonamides as Amine Component in the Petasis-Borono Mannich Reaction: A Concise Synthesis of α-Aryl- and α-Alkenylglycine Derivatives­
Authors: Manolikakes Georg , Diehl Andreas , Ouadoudi Omar , Andreadou Eleni
Published: July 2018

A catalyst-free three-component synthesis of α-aryl- and α-alkenylglycine derivatives starting from glyoxylic acid, sulfonamides, and aryl- or alkenylboronic acids is described. This operationally simple method tolerates a broad range of functional groups and enables the generation of a wide array of α-amino acids. Sulfonamides were utilized as amine component in the classic Petasis reaction for the first time.