bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methane emissions from groundwater pumping in the USA
Authors: Kulongoski J. T. , McMahon P. B.
Published: March 2019

Atmospheric methane accumulation contributes to climate change, hence quantifying methane emissions is essential to assess and model the impacts. Here, we estimate methane emissions from groundwater pumping in the Los Angeles Basin (LAB), north-eastern Pennsylvania, and the Principal aquifers of the USA using the average concentrations of methane in groundwater and annual groundwater pumping volumes. High average methane concentrations, 44.1 mg/L, and extensive groundwater pumping, ~3.1 × 1011 L/a in the LAB, result in the annual emission of ~2.9 × 10−3 Tg of microbial methane. Ethane emissions in the LAB were 3.5 × 10−6 Tg/a. Lower methane emissions estimated for NE Pennsylvania, ~3.0 × 10−6 Tg/a, reflect lower methane concentrations and groundwater pumping, 0.7 mg/L and 4.27 × 109 L/a, respectively. Methane concentrations and groundwater withdrawals, 1.06 × 1014 L/a, across the USA enabled the estimation of the total emissions of methane from Principal aquifers (92% of total pumping) of 0.044 Tg/a in the year 2000, which represents a small percentage (~0.2%) of the total annual US methane emissions, but a previously unquantified flux in the global methane budget. Globally, groundwater-pumping methane emissions were estimated to be 0.53 Tg/a, 0.2% of global methane emissions, by adopting a global estimate for groundwater extraction, and an average methane concentration in older groundwater of 0.44 mg/L.
Understanding zeolite deactivation by sulfur poisoning during direct olefin upgrading
Authors: Harrhy Jonathan H. , Wang Aiguo , Jarvis Jack S. , He Peng , Meng Shijun , Yung Matthew , Liu Lijia , Song Hua
Published: March 2019

The presence of sulfur contaminants in bitumen derived crude oils can lead to rapid catalyst deactivation and is a major problem faced by downstream refiners. Whilst expensive hydrotreating steps may remove much of the sulfur content, it is important to understand how catalyst deactivation by sulfur poisoning occurs and how it may be mitigated. Here we report a mechanistic study of sulfur poisoning over a zeolite catalyst promoted with silver and gallium Lewis acids. Olefin upgrading, an essential process in the refinement of heavy oils, is used as a model reaction. Access to the zeolite inner pores is blocked by bulky, weakly adsorbed sulfur species. Pore access and thus catalyst activity is restored by increasing the reaction temperature. We also show that a simple alkaline treatment greatly improves both the sulfur tolerance and performance of the catalyst. These findings may enhance the rational design of heterogenous catalysts for olefin upgrading.
Tervalent phosphorus acid derivatives
Authors: Pereira Mariette M. , Carrilho Rui M. B. , Calvete Mário J. F.
Published: March 2019

This chapter covers the most relevant literature published during the year 2017, related to tervalent phosphorus acid derivatives. Some of the most relevant concepts are reported, regarding synthetic methodologies to halogenophosphorus compounds, phosphorus amides (aminophosphines, phosphoramidites and diamidophosphites), phosphorus esters (phosphinites, phosphonites and phosphites) and mixed phosphorus compounds bearing two different tervalent phosphorus moieties. A critical selection of their applications is briefly assessed, with an emphasis on the catalytic applications of ligands and metal complexes.
Phosphine chalcogenides
Authors: Keglevich G.
Published: March 2019

This chapter gives an account of the newer developments on the synthesis and reactivity of phosphine chalcogenides, mainly oxides and sulfides. A series of new synthetic methods for phosphine oxides is discussed, followed by preparations utilizing simple P-reagents such as P(iii)- and P(v)-chlorides, and >P(O)H species. Their additions to unsaturated substrates and P–C coupling reactions, involving interesting variations, represent a hot topic. The modification of P-chalcogenides including deoxygenations are also shown. Optically active phosphine oxides and their complexes also form a usual part of this chapter.
Improvement of the electrochemical and singlet fission properties of anthraquinones by modification of the diradical character
Authors: López-Carballeira Diego , Zubiria María , Casanova David , Ruipérez Fernando
Published: March 2019

Quantum chemistry is employed to estimate the effects that the structural modification of 1,5- and 9,10-anthraquinones produces in their electronic structure, in the pursuit of a common strategy to improve the electrochemical and singlet fission features on conjugated quinones.
Interactions between cyclic nucleotides and common cations: anab initiomolecular dynamics study
Authors: Cassone Giuseppe , Kruse Holger , Sponer Jiri
Published: March 2019

We present the first, to the best of our knowledge,ab initiomolecular dynamics (AIMD) investigation on three aqueous solutions where an abasic cyclic nucleotide model is solvated in the presence of distinct cations (i.e., Na+, K+and Mg2+).
Cobalt oxide–carbon nanocatalysts with highly enhanced catalytic performance for the green synthesis of nitrogen heterocycles through the Friedländer condensation
Authors: Godino-Ojer Marina , López-Peinado Antonio J. , Maldonado-Hódar Francisco J. , Bailón-García Esther , Pérez-Mayoral Elena
Published: March 2019

A novel series of eco-sustainable catalysts developed by supporting CoO nanoparticles on different carbon supports, highly efficient in the synthesis of quinolines and naphthyridines, through the Friedländer condensation.
Chemical characterization and bioactive properties of a coffee-like beverage prepared fromQuercus cerriskernels
Authors: Pinto Diana , Diaz Franco Santiago , Silva Ana Margarida , Cupara Snezana , Koskovac Marijana , Kojicic Ksenija , Soares Sónia , Rodrigues Francisca , Sut Stefania , Dall'Acqua Stefano , Oliveira M. Beatriz P. P.
Published: March 2019

In the present study, a coffee-like beverage was prepared fromQuercus cerrisseeds.
Direct observation of prion protein oligomer formation reveals an aggregation mechanism with multiple conformationally distinct species
Authors: Sang Jason C. , Lee Ji-Eun , Dear Alexander J. , De Suman , Meisl Georg , Thackray Alana M. , Bujdoso Raymond , Knowles Tuomas P. J. , Klenerman David
Published: March 2019

The aggregation of the prion protein (PrP) plays a key role in the development of prion diseases.
Light-driven control of the composition of a supramolecular network
Authors: Remón Patricia , González David , Li Shiming , Basílio Nuno , Andréasson Joakim , Pischel Uwe
Published: March 2019

All-photonic and reversible switching of the composition of a supramolecular network is enabled by employing a dithienylethene guest.
Switchable hydrogenation with a betaine-derived bifunctional Ir–NHC catalyst
Authors: Maji Babulal , Choudhury Joyanta
Published: March 2019

A bifunctional iridium catalyst based on the ‘uracil–abnormal NHC’ hybrid ligand platform was developed for switchable hydrogenation of quinoxalines.
Visible responses under high pressure in crystals: phenolphthalein and its analogues with adjustable ring-opening threshold pressures
Authors: Deng Xinyuan , Guo Hongwei , Meng Xiao , Wang Kai , Zou Bo , Ma Yuguo
Published: March 2019

Visible mechanochromism was triggered via the ring-opening reaction of phenolphthalein under high pressure. Different ring-opening threshold pressures and responsive colors were achieved by changing the substituent groups with different electronic effects.
Tunneling and thermoelectric characteristics of N-heterocyclic carbene-based large-area molecular junctions
Authors: Kang Seohyun , Park Sohyun , Kang Hungu , Cho Soo Jin , Song Hyunsun , Yoon Hyo Jae
Published: March 2019

Tunneling and thermoelectric characteristics of NHC-based large-area junctions were demonstrated for the first time.
Metal-free construction of contiguous quaternary stereocentres with a polycyclic framework
Authors: Lin Wei-Bin , Mou Yong , Lu Hai-Yan , Hu Zhi-Qiang , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: March 2019

A series of contiguous all-carbon quaternary stereocentres with an arene-annulated polycyclic framework were efficiently constructed by a metal-free acid-catalyzed method.
In situ formation of electronically coupled superlattices of Cu1.1S nanodiscs at the liquid/air interface
Authors: Maiti Sonam , Maiti Santanu , Maier Andre , Banerjee Rupak , Shen Chen , Murphy Bridget M. , Scheele Marcus , Schreiber Frank
Published: March 2019

We report on the in situ monitoring of the formation of conductive superlattices of Cu1.1S nanodiscs via cross-linking with semiconducting cobalt 4,4′,4′′,4′′′-tetraaminophthalocyanine (CoTAPc) molecules at the liquid/air interface by real-time grazing incidence small angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS).
Metallic and plasmonic MoO2 monocrystalline ultrathin mesoporous nanosheets for highly sensitive and stable surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Li Junfang , Bai Hua , Zhai Junfeng , Li Wentao , Fan Wenhao , Xi Guangcheng
Published: March 2019

2D monocrystalline mesoporous SERS substrates: general synthesis and SERS properties of metal oxide microspheres composed of monocrystalline ultrathin mesoporous nanosheets by a facile decompressing decomposition route is reported.
Defect-rich fluorographene nanosheets for artificial N2 fixation under ambient conditions
Authors: Zhao Jinxiu , Yang Jiajia , Ji Lei , Wang Huanbo , Chen Hongyu , Niu Zhiguo , Liu Qian , Li Tingshuai , Cui Ganglong , Sun Xuping
Published: March 2019

Defect-rich fluorographene behaves as a metal-free catalyst for the artificial conversion of N2 to NH3 at ambient conditions. In 0.1 M Na2SO4, it achieves a faradaic efficiency (FE) of 4.2% with an NH3 formation rate (RNH3) of 9.3 μg h−1 mgcat.−1 at −0.7 V vs. RHE, with strong long-term electrochemical durability.
Investigation of ECD conformational transition mechanism of GLP-1R by molecular dynamics simulations and Markov state model
Authors: Zhang Jintu , Bai Qifeng , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Shang Shuxia , An Xiaoli , Yao Xiaojun
Published: March 2019

As a member of the class B G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) can regulate the blood glucose level by binding to the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R).
On the involvement of d-electrons in superatomic shells: the group 3 and 4 transition metals
Authors: Gilmour J. T. A. , Gaston N.
Published: March 2019

Expansion of the role of partially localised d-electrons within the superatomic framework.
A complete series of uranium(iv) complexes with terminal hydrochalcogenido (EH) and chalcogenido (E) ligands E = O, S, Se, Te
Authors: Rosenzweig Michael W. , Hümmer Julian , Scheurer Andreas , Lamsfus Carlos Alvarez , Heinemann Frank W. , Maron Laurent , Mazzanti Marinella , Meyer Karsten
Published: March 2019

Theoretical and experimental examination of the bonding situation in uranium complexes bearing terminal hydrochalcogenido and chalcogenido ligands.
Catechin inhibits glycated phosphatidylethanolamine formation by trapping dicarbonyl compounds and forming quinone
Authors: Han Lipeng , Lin Qingna , Liu Guoqin , Han Dongxue , Niu Li , Su Dongxiao
Published: March 2019

Catechin inhibits glycated phosphatidylethanolamine formation by trapping dicarbonyl compounds and forming quinone.
Visible-light-induced metal and reagent-free oxidative coupling of sp2 C–H bonds with organo-dichalcogenides: synthesis of 3-organochalcogenyl indoles
Authors: Rathore Vandana , Kumar Sangit
Published: March 2019

Here, a unique visible-light-induced method for the organochalcogenation of the sp2 C–H bonds of indoles and aniline has been presented using diaryl dichalcogenides (S, Se, and Te) and oxygen as an oxidant avoiding a photocatalyst, base, catalyst, and reagent in acetone.
Modulation of starch nanoparticle surface characteristics for the facile construction of recyclable Pickering interfacial enzymatic catalysis
Authors: Qi Liang , Luo Zhigang , Lu Xuanxuan
Published: March 2019

Starch nanoparticles participating in the Pickering emulsion for recyclable interfacial enzymatic catalysis.
Droplet CAR-Wash: continuous picoliter-scale immunocapture and washing
Authors: Doonan Steven R. , Lin Melissa , Bailey Ryan C.
Published: March 2019

The CAR-Wash provides >100-fold dilution with >98% magnetic bead recovery for washing picoliter-scale droplets at 500 Hz.
A synergistic approach to enhance the photoelectrochemical performance of carbon dots for molecular imprinting sensors
Authors: Mao Lebao , Wang Xinyi , Guo Yun , Yao Linli , Xue Xiaojie , Wang Hang-Xing , Xiong Chengyi , Wen Wei , Zhang Xiuhua , Wang Shengfu
Published: March 2019

Rightly adjusting the energy level; optimization of intimate interfacial contact; extension of the light absorption range; and enhancement of charge-transfer efficiency.
A novel phase function describing light scattering of layers containing colloidal nanospheres
Authors: Wang Junxin , Xu Changgang , Nilsson Annica M. , Fernandes Daniel L. A. , Niklasson Gunnar A.
Published: March 2019

A novel empirical phase function gives an excellent approximation to the angular light scattering of a layer containing micro/nanoparticles.
Trivalent ion mediated abnormal growth of all-inorganic perovskite nanocrystals and their divergent emission properties
Authors: Dong Xunyi , Acheampong Tsiwah Emmanuel , Li Tan , Hu Junjie , Li Zixiong , Ding Yanxi , Deng Zhao , Chen Wenhui , Xu Like , Gao Peng , Zhao Xiujian , Xie Yi
Published: March 2019

Generating two complementary optical absorption and photoluminescence emission bands in CsPbBr3NCsviaa facile trivalent ion-mediated synthetic protocol.
Hot carriers in action: multimodal photocatalysis on Au@SnO2 core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Fu Xiaoqi , Li Guangfang Grace , Villarreal Esteban , Wang Hui
Published: March 2019

Au@SnO2 core–shell nanoparticles exhibit multimodal photocatalytic behaviors dictated by hot carriers derived from plasmonic intraband and d → sp interband transitions, respectively.
Metal–organic frameworks: a universal strategy towards super-elastic hydrogels
Authors: Liu Huaizhi , Peng Hao , Xin Yumeng , Zhang Jiuyang
Published: March 2019

We reported for the first time using metal–organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles as effective nanofillers to significantly enhance the mechanical performance of hydrogels. The MOF hydrogels have been developed for drug delivery materials with high loading capacity and much extended drug releasing profiles.
An electrocatalytic route for transformation of biomass-derived furfural into 5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone
Authors: Wu Haoran , Song Jinliang , Liu Huizhen , Xie Zhenbing , Xie Chao , Hu Yue , Huang Xin , Hua Manli , Han Buxing
Published: March 2019

An electrocatalytic route was developed for the first time for conversion of biomass-derived furfural to bioactive 5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone over CuS nanosheets using H2O as the oxygen source.
Correction: Lithium-containing biomaterials inhibit osteoclastogenesis of macrophages in vitro and osteolysis in vivo
Authors: Pan Chenhao , Chen Lei , Wu Ruoyu , Shan Haojie , Zhou Zubin , Lin Yiwei , Yu Xiaowei , Yan Liang , Wu Chengtie
Published: March 2019

Correction for ‘Lithium-containing biomaterials inhibit osteoclastogenesis of macrophages in vitro and osteolysis in vivo’ by Chenhao Pan et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2018, 6, 8115–8126.
Down-regulation of DANCR acts as a potential biomarker for papillary thyroid cancer diagnosis
Authors: Zhang Ke , Lv Jing , Peng Xiaowei , Liu Jianqiu , Li Cuilin , Li Jing , Yin Ningwei , Li Hui , Li Zhi
Published: March 2019

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to be dysregulated and play a crucial role in the progression of cancer. LncRNA DANCR has recently been revealed to be involved in tumorigenesis of numerous types of cancer, including osteosarcoma, gastric cancer, breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and colorectal cancer. However, the expression profiles and biological relevance of DANCR in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) have not yet been reported. In the present study, the expression level of DANCR in PTC tissues and adjacent normal tissues was detected by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR in PTC patients, and then we analyzed the association with clinical pathological characteristics of patients and DANCR expressions. These results demonstrated that the expression of DANCR was notably decreased in tumor tissues in comparison with adjacent normal tissues (P<0.001). Furthermore, the present study found that DANCR expression level was correlated to T grade (P<0.01) and TNM stage (P=0.017). The present study demonstrated that DANCR was associated with PTC aggressive clinical features and may serve as a diagnostic biomarker for detecting PTC patients.
LncRNA DANCR contributes to tumor progression via targetting miR-216a-5p in breast cancer: lncRNA DANCR contributes to tumor progression
Authors: Tao Weiyang , Wang Chunyang , Zhu Bifa , Zhang Guoqiang , Pang Da
Published: March 2019

Breast cancer, the most frequently occurring malignant tumor, has high mortality rate, especially triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). LncRNA-differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (lncRNA DANCR) has been found that its aberrant expression was associated with tumor progression and it was promising to be a potential target for cancer therapy. The goal of the present study was to explore the biological effects and underlying mechanism of DANCR in breast cancer. Our results showed that DANCR was up-regulated in TNBC tissues and breast cancer cells compared with normal breast tissues and cells, and higher DANCR level suggested poorer prognosis, implying that it was promising to be a novel biomarker used for TNBC diagnosis and prognosis. To better research the functions and mechanism of DANCR on breast cancer cells, we selected two cell lines used for next study: one TNBC cell line–MDA-MB-231 and one ER-positive breast cancer cell line–MCF-7. Further study indicated that DANCR overexpression significantly promoted cell proliferation and invasion in vitro and contributed to tumor growth in vivo. To deeply understand its molecular mechanism, miRNA-216a-5p was identified as a target of DANCR by bioinformatic analysis. Experiments demonstrated that miRNA-216a-5p interacted with DANCR and its inhibitor could weaken the influences induced by DANCR knockdown for cancer cells, including cell proliferation and invasion, and the expression of Nanog, SOX2, and OCT4. Therefore, DANCR might act as a tumor promoter by targetting miRNA-216a-5p, which might provide a potential therapy target for breast cancer treatment.
Prognostic significance of lncRNA DANCR expression in human cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Qin-Peng , Guo Jia
Published: March 2019

Several studies demonstrated that lncRNA differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (lncRNA DANCR) expression might have the potential capacity to predict the cancer prognosis; however, definite conclusion has not been obtained. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the prognostic value of lncRNA DANCR expression in cancers. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase were comprehensively searched for relevant studies. Studies meeting all inclusion standards were included into this meta-analysis. The analysis of overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), or clinicopathological features was conducted. Total 11 studies containing 1154 cancer patients were analyzed in this meta-analysis. The results showed, compared with low lncRNA DANCR expression, high lncRNA DANCR expression was significantly associated with shorter OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.85; 95% CI = 1.52–2.26; P<0.01) and DFS (HR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.43–2.32; P<0.01) in cancers. Besides, high lncRNA DANCR expression predicted deeper tumor invasion (P<0.01), earlier lymph node metastasis (P<0.01), earlier distant metastasis (P<0.01), and more advanced clinical stage (P<0.01) compared with low lncRNA DANCR expression in cancer populations. High lncRNA DANCR expression was associated with worse prognosis compared with low lncRNA DANCR expression in cancers. LncRNA DANCR expression could serve as a prognostic factor of human cancers.
Up-regulation of miRNA-148a inhibits proliferation, invasion, and migration while promoting apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by down-regulating RRS1
Authors: Zhang Ying , Sun Bingmei , Zhao Lianbin , Liu Zhengling , Xu Zonglan , Tian Yonghui , Hao Changhong
Published: March 2019

The purpose of the present study is to figure out the role of miRNA-148a (miR-148a) in growth, apoptosis, invasion, and migration of cervical cancer cells by binding to regulator of ribosome synthesis 1 (RRS1). Cervical cancer and adjacent normal tissues, as well as cervical cancer cell line Caski, HeLa, C-33A, and normal cervical epithelial cell line H8 were obtained to detect the expression of miR-148a and RRS1. Relationship between miR-148a and RRS1 expression with clinicopathological characteristics was assessed. The selected Caski and HeLa cells were then transfected with miR-148a mimics, miR-148a inhibitors or RRS1 siRNA to investigate the role of miR-148a and RRS1 on proliferation, apoptosis, colony formation, invasion, and migration abilities of cervical cancer cells. Bioinformatics information and dual luciferase reporter gene assay was for used to detect the targetting relationship between miR-148a and RRS1. Down-regulated miR-148a and up-regulated RRS1 were found in cervical cancer tissues and cells. Down-regulated miR-148a and up-regulated RRS1 are closely related with prognostic factors of cervical cancer. RRS1 was determined as a target gene of miR-148a and miR-148a inhibited RRS1 expression in cervical cancer cells. Up-regulation of miR-148a inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion while promoting apoptosis in Caski and HeLa cells. Our study suggests that miR-148a down-regulates RRS1 expression, thereby inhibiting the proliferation, migration, and invasion while promoting cell apoptosis of cervical cancer cells.
Polymorphisms inCLDN1are associated with age and differentiation of triple-negative breast cancer patients
Authors: Hu Aimin , Li Junyu , Ruan Shufang , Fan Ying , Liao Yuqian
Published: March 2019

Purpose: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogeneous disease. It is very important to explore novel biomarkers to better clarify the characteristics of TNBC. It has been reported that polymorphisms in claudin 1 (CLDN1) are associated with risk of several cancers. But till now, there is no report about these polymorphisms and TNBC. Patients and methods: Between January 2004 and December 2013, 267 patients with stage I–III primary TNBC were included in our study. We investigated the association between polymorphisms in CLDN1 gene and clinicopathological characteristics or survival of these patients. We used Haploview 4.2 software to identify Tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). MassARRAY MALDI-TOF System was used for genotyping. Results: We found that rs10513846 GA genotype was associated with older age [P=0.013, hazard ratios (HR) = 2.231, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.186–4.195]. Rs10513846 AA genotype carriers were more likely to develop grade 3 tumors (P=0.005, HR = 2.889, 95% CI: 1.389–6.007). And rs9283658 genotypes were also related to grade, more patients with grade 3 tumors were rs9283658 CC genotype carriers (P=0.023, HR = 0.446, 95% CI: 0.222–0.894). There was no association between polymorphisms in CLDN1 and survival of TNBC patients. After multivariate analysis, tumor size (P=0.021, HR = 3.146, 95% CI: 1.185–8.354) and lymph node status (P<0.001, HR = 10.930, 95% CI: 3.276–36.470) were demonstrated to be independent prognostic factors. Conclusion: We first demonstrated that polymorphisms in CLDN1 gene were associated with age and differentiation of TNBC patients.
Inhibition of acid sphingomyelinase activity ameliorates endothelial dysfunction in db/db mice
Authors: Jiang Meng , Huang Shanya , Duan Wang , Liu Qiaoshu , Lei Minxiang
Published: March 2019

Acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase) plays an important role in endothelial dysfunction. Here, we show that elevated aSMase activity and ceramide content were reduced by desipramine treatment in diabetic animals. The inhibitor of aSMase, desipramine, improved vascular dysfunction in db/db mice. High glucose (HG)-induced up-regulation of aSMase activity and ceramide levels were restored by treatment with aSMase siRNA or desipramine in endothelial cells. In addition, aSMase siRNA or desipramine treatment increased the release of nitric oxide (NO) and the phosphorylation of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) in diabetic mouse aortas and aortic endothelial cells with HG.

These results indicate that inhibition of aSMase/ceramide pathway improves endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation (EDR) largely through regulating the eNOS/NO pathway in diabetic animals.
NFKB1 gene rs28362491 polymorphism is associated with the susceptibility of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Jin Si-Yu , Luo Jun-Yi , Li Xiao-Mei , Liu Fen , Ma Yi-Tong , Gao Xiao-Ming , Yang Yi-Ning
Published: March 2019

The acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a complex disease where genetic and environmental factors are involved. NF-κB, a central regulator of inflammation, is involved in various inflammatory diseases. The aim of the present study was to explore the association between NFKB1 gene rs28362491 (-94ATTGins/del) polymorphism and ACS. A total of 778 ACS patients and 1112 healthy subjects were included in our study. The TaqMan SNP genotyping assays was used to analyze the rs28362491 polymorphism. The lesion extent of coronary artery was assessed by Gensini Score and lesion vessel number in ACS patients. For total and males, the frequencies of the mutant DD genotype and D allele were significantly higher in ACS patients than that in control subjects (total: DD genotype: 18.0 vs 14.1%, P=0.009, D allele: 43.0 vs 37.9%, P=0.002, males: DD genotype: 20.6 vs 15.3%, P=0.042, D allele: 44.2 vs 38.8%, P=0.013). After multivariate logistic regression analysis, we found that individuals with mutant DD genotype had 1.329-fold higher risk of ACS compared with individuals with ID and II genotypes. Moreover, ACS patients with DD genotype were worse stenosis of coronary artery compared with patients carrying II or ID genotype. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the mutant DD genotype of NFKB1 gene was associated with the risk and severity of ACS in Han population in Xinjiang, northwest of China.
Extensive mechanical tension promotes annulus fibrosus cell senescence through suppressing cellular autophagy
Authors: Zhao Liang , Tian Baofang , Xu Qing , Zhang Cunxin , Zhang Luo , Fang Haolin
Published: March 2019

Background: Mechanical load contributes a lot to the initiation and progression of disc degeneration. Annulus fibrosus (AF) cell biology under mechanical tension remains largely unclear.

Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate AF cell senescence under mechanical tension and the potential role of autophagy.

Methods: Rat AF cells were cultured and experienced different magnitudes (5% elongation and 20% elongation) of mechanical tension for 12 days. Control AF cells were kept static. Cell proliferation, telomerase activity, cell cycle fraction, and expression of senescence-related molecules (p16 and p53) and matrix macromolecules (aggrecan and collagen I) were analyzed to evaluate cell senescence. In addition, expression of Beclin-1 and LC3, and the ratio of LC3-II to LC3-I were analyzed to investigate cell autophagy.

Results: Compared with the control group and 5% tension group, 20% tension group significantly decreased cell proliferation potency and telomerase activity, increased G1/G0 phase fraction, and up-regulated gene/protein expression of p16 and p53, whereas down-regulated gene/protein expression of aggrecan and collagen I. In addition, autophagy-related parameters such as gene/protein expression of Beclin-1 and LC3, and the ratio of LC3-II to LC3-I, were obviously suppressed in the 20% tension group.

Conclusion: High mechanical tension promotes AF cell senescence though suppressing cellular autophagy. The present study will help us to better understand AF cell biology under mechanical tension and mechanical load-related disc degeneration.
Association between CYP3A4 gene rs4646437 polymorphism and the risk of hypertension in Chinese population: a case–control study
Authors: Wang Juan , Ji Hongliang , Jia Helei , Guan Dongsheng
Published: March 2019

Using a case–control design, we assessed the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of CYP3A4 gene rs4646437 polymorphism and the risk of hypertension in Chinese population. We recruited 450 hypertension patients from The First Clinical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine between June 2017 and May 2018. There was a significant difference in genotype distribution between case group and control group (χ2=18.169, P=0.000). The minor A allele was significantly higher in the case group than that in the control group (31.0 vs 24.8%, P=0.000, odds ratio [OR]=1.36, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.12–1.66). Significant differences were also observed in other gene models: the GA/AA genotype did not increase the risk of hypertension compared with GG genotype (OR=1.16, 95% CI: 0.90–1.49, P=0.259). Compared with GG/GA genotype, the AA genotype also increased the risk of hypertension (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.56–3.50, P=0.000). For additive model, the AA genotype was significantly associated with GG genotype (OR=2.25, 95% CI: 1.49–3.42, P=0.000). The same results were found for AA vs GA (OR=2.50, 95% CI: 1.60–3.89, P=0.000). For the allele genotype, the A allele frequency was significantly higher in the case group than that in the control group (31.0 vs 24.8%, P=0.002). The A allele of CYP3A4 rs4646437 was associated with an increased risk for hypertension (OR=1.36, 95% CI: 1.12–1.66, P=0.002). Our results revealed a possible genetic association between CYP3A4 gene rs4646437 and hypertension, and the AA genotype of rs4646437 increased the risk of hypertension in Chinese Han population, and this effect could be confirmed by multivariable analyses.
Stellar models and isochrones from low-mass to massive stars including pre-main sequence phase with accretion
Authors: Haemmerlé L. , Eggenberger P. , Ekström S. , Georgy C. , Meynet G. , Postel A. , Audard M. , Sørensen M. , Fragos T.
Published: March 2019

Grids of stellar models are useful tools to derive the properties of stellar clusters, in particular young clusters hosting massive stars, and to provide information on the star formation process in various mass ranges. Because of their short evolutionary timescale, massive stars end their life while their low-mass siblings are still on the pre-main sequence (pre-MS) phase. Thus the study of young clusters requires consistent consideration of all the phases of stellar evolution. But despite the large number of grids that are available in the literature, a grid accounting for the evolution from the pre-MS accretion phase to the post-MS phase in the whole stellar mass range is still lacking. We build a grid of stellar models at solar metallicity with masses from 0.8 M⊙ to 120 M⊙, including pre-MS phase with accretion. We use the GENEC code to run stellar models on this mass range. The accretion law is chosen to match the observations of pre-MS objects on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. We describe the evolutionary tracks and isochrones of our models. The grid is connected to previous MS and post-MS grids computed with the same numerical method and physical assumptions, which provides the widest grid in mass and age to date.
Electron Cyclotron collisionless interaction during EC-assisted tokamak start-up
Authors: Farina Daniela
Published: March 2019

In the initial phase of a plasma discharge with EC-assisted breakdown, the wave-particle interaction is nonlinear and wave trapping provides the mechanism for transition from a very low energy state to a much larger energy state. A Hamiltonian adiabatic approach provides the condition for the energy variation to occur in a rigorous way, together with quantitative estimate as a function of the wave frequency, harmonic number, polarisation and EC power and beam width, for the ﬁrst, and second cyclotron harmonic. The interaction is highly localized in space close to the EC resonance. The spatial proﬁle of the energy gain are reported together with the estimates of the width of the radial region where the interaction takes place in the case of a tokamak conﬁguration. The analysis provides a physics based description of the process as well as indications for an optimized experimental setup.
3D Full-Wave modelling and EC mode conversion in realistic plasmas
Authors: Aleynikov Pavel , Marushchenko Nikolai B.
Published: March 2019

The wave physics of O-X conversion in overdense W7-X plasma is discussed. For this study, a new 3D, cold plasma full-wave code has been developed. The code takes advantage of massive parallel computations with Graphics Processing Units (GPU), which allows for up to 100 times faster calculations than on a single-CPU. A 3D calculation of the O-X conversion is demonstrated. We discuss limitations of the mode conversion scenario within the capabilities of the existing ECRH system in W7-X, and demonstrate an optimised conversion scenario in which the launching antenna location is altered. The conversion eﬃciency of the optimised scenario is predicted to be >85%.
Top Launch for Higher Off-axis Electron Cyclotron Current Drive Efficiency
Authors: Chen Xi , Prater Ron , Petty Craig , Lohr John , Su David , Lao Lang , Chan Vincent
Published: March 2019

Efficient off-axis current drive is crucial for economic, steady-state tokamak fusion power plants. “Top Launch” electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) is one promising method for driving strong off-axis current to achieve the desired broad current profile for the Advanced Tokamak regime. New simulations show that by launching the electron cyclotron (EC) waves downwards (or upwards) nearly parallel to the resonance plane with a large toroidal steering, higher current drive efficiency can be obtained at large radii owing to the large Doppler shift, wave-particle interactions on HFS of the plasma, and the long absorption path. Implementations on CFETR and DIII-D are simulated identifying clear benefits and optimal configurations. The design of a prototype test being installed on DIII-D is presented, which will experimentally validate whether top launch ECCD can be an improved efficiency current drive technique for future fusion reactors.
Recent ECRH/ECCD experiments aiming for higher density and temperature operations in the LHD
Authors: Igami Hiroe , Kubo Shin , Shimozuma Takashi , Yoshimura Yasuo , Ii Tsujimura Toru , Kobayashi Sakuji , Mizuno Yoshinori , Takubo Hidenori , Tanaka Kenji , Yokoyama Masayuki , Seki Ryosuke , Yamada Ichihiro , Yasuhara Ryo , Tsuchiya Hayato , Ida Katsumi , Yoshinuma Mikiro , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Ohdachi Satoshi , Osakabe Masaki , Morisaki Tomohiro ,   LHD Experiment Group
Published: March 2019

In LHD, real-time control of the incident EC wave polarization and quick response microwave bolometer for monitoring the stray radiations have been developed for efficient and safe operation of the high power and long pulse ECRH/ECCD. As a high power ECRH/ECCD application aiming for high density, ECRH has been demonstrated up to 85% of the cutoff density by the fundamental X-mode excitation in HFS with use of a horizontal port antenna located in LFS. As another application aiming for high temperature, the effect of the control of the rotational transform with use of the ECCD on the sustainment of the e-ITB is investigated. It has been suggested that higher local electron energy confinement time is obtained inside the e-ITB with placing the m/n = 2/1 magnetic island near the edge of the e-ITB compared to the case when the 2/1 island is vanished in the plasma.
Overview of W7-X ECRH Results
Authors: Laqua H.P. , Baldzuhn J. , Braune H. , Bozhenkov S. , Brunner K.J. , Kazakov Ye.O. , Marsen S. , Moseev D. , Stange T. , Wolf R.C. , Zanini M. ,   Wendelstein7-X Team
Published: March 2019

In its second operation phase (OP1.2a) W7-X was equipped with full 3d island divertor and an upgraded ECRH-system of 10 gyrotrons with a total port through power of 7 MW. The combination of pellet fueling and high density ECRH enabled to explore density above 1 1020 m-3. In particular with the O2-polarisation combined with a multi-pass reflector tile system a density of up to 1.4 1020 m-3 was achieved. At slightly lower densities high core beta values and record values of the fusion tripple product of 0.66 1020 m-3 keVs for stellarators were reached. In addition routine plasma start-up and ECRH wall conditioning were performed. The island divertor enables to demonstrate the intrinsic steady state capabilities of W7-X, where stationary discharges of up to 30s were demonstrated being only limited by the heat capacity of the uncooled divertor. With the flexible ECRH launch system current density profile variations were used for MHD stability investigations. Here by fine-tuning of the ECCD profile different MHD activity could be triggered.
Side emissions during EC injection for PDI studies in FTU tokamak
Authors: Bruschi Alessandro , Alessi Edoardo , Baiocchi Benedetta , Bin William , D’Arcangelo Ocleto , Fanale Francesco , Figini Lorenzo , Galperti Cristian , Garavaglia Saul , Gittini Giuseppe , Granucci Gustavo , Grosso Giovanni , Lubyako Lev , Mazzotta Cristina , Mellera Vittoria , Moro Alessandro , Orsitto Francesco , Pallotta Fabrizio , Rocchi Giuliano , Simonetto Alessandro , Tartari Umberto , Tudisco Onofrio
Published: March 2019

The evidence of Parametric Decay Instabilities (PDI) excited by the ECH power injected in O-Mode has been explored in FTU Tokamak, using the Collective Thomson Scattering (CTS) diagnostic. The experiments show evidences to support the hypothesis of low-threshold excitation of waves generated by PDI mechanisms, formerly proposed in the case of 2nd harmonic X-mode injection in TEXTOR and ASDEX-U. Theoretical analysis predicts low-threshold parametric decay also for O-mode pump-wave injection, which can be injected in FTU at frequencies close to the first Harmonic EC resonance. Experiments were made at different magnetic fields, injecting the 140 GHz probe and observing the emission from the second antenna of the EC launcher in poloidally symmetric and asymmetric configurations, in presence of MHD islands. The signal is detected by the CTS radiometers, with a fast digitizer allowing the spectral reconstruction at very fine time and frequency scales. Different types of emissions are studied in detail, comparing them with the magnetic island rotation frequency in different plasma conditions. In order to locate the plasma volume originating the emissions, a new antenna and receiving line has been installed.
Observation and Modelling of the Onset of Parametric Decay Instabilities during Gyrotron Operation at ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Hansen S.K. , Nielsen S.K. , Stober J. , Rasmussen J. , Stejner M. ,   ASDEX Upgrade Team
Published: March 2019

We investigate parametric decay instabilities (PDIs) occurring for gyrotron radiation near the upper hybrid resonance at the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak. The PDIs are observed through anomalous millimeter-wave scattering which is recorded using the high-resolution, fast acquisition collective Thomson scattering system installed at ASDEX Upgrade, and an experiment in which such observations are made during a scan of the toroidal magnetic ﬁeld is performed. A previously published theoretical model is used to calculate the gyrotron power necessary to excite PDIs in the experiment; the theoretical model is capable of predicting whether or not PDIs will be observed at a given toroidal magnetic ﬁeld with a high degree of accuracy.
Beam tracing study for design and operation of two-pass electron cyclotron heating at ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Schubert Martin , Plaum Burkhard , Stober Jörg , Herrmann Albrecht , Kasparek Walter , Lechte Carsten , Leuterer Fritz , Monaco Francesco , Petzold Bernhard , Poli Emanuele , Vorbrugg Stefan , Wagner Dietmar
Published: March 2019

The electron cyclotron resonance heating system at ASDEX Upgrade (AUG) is currently being extended to eight similar Gyrotrons in total. Each Gyrotron operates at 105 and 140 GHz and is designed for up to 1 MW millimetre wave output power. A substantial part of the AUG program will focus on experimental conditions, where the plasma density may be above the X-2 cut-off density at 140 GHz. In order to cope with the high density, the heating system will operate in the O-2 mode scheme with potentially incomplete absorption in the first pass. Reflecting gratings installed into the heat shield on AUG’s inner column allow for a controlled second pass of the beam’s unabsorbed fraction. Thermocouple measurements serve to control the beam position on the grating. The beam geometry is being finalized for the launchers #1-4. Beam propagation is simulated with the TORBEAM code and previous high density experiments are used as a database. The geometry is optimized using three criteria: central deposition, high absorption and robustness of the beam dump after the second pass. The experimental conditions, and the plasma electron density in particular, may vary such that the Gaussian beam parameters of the incoming beam on the grating deviate from the design values. It is proposed to model the effect of the grating with an equivalent ellipsoidal mirror. Laboratory measurements are shown, which support this model.
Construction of an EBW Heating System for the MST RFP
Authors: Seltzman Andrew , Anderson Jay , Forest Cary
Published: March 2019

The first observation of rf heating in a reversed field pinch (RFP) using the electron Bernstein wave (EBW) has been demonstrated on Madison Symmetric Torus (MST). The design of the RF heating system used in this experiment is described. Klystron and antenna limitations are examined during launch into the plasma.
Advances in turbulence measurements using new Correlation ECE and nT-phase diagnostics at ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Freethy Simon J. , Görler Tobias , Creely Alex J. , Conway Garrard D. , Denk Severin S. , Happel Tim , Henniquin Pascale , Koenen Christian , White Anne E. ,   ASDEX Upgrade team
Published: March 2019

Guided by predictions from nonlinear gyrokinetic simulations, two new turbulence diagnostics were designed and installed at ASDEX Upgrade (AUG) to probe the fundamentals of ion-scale turbulent electron heat transport. The first, a 30-channel correlation ECE (CECE) radiometer (105-128 GHz, 2nd harmonic X-mode), introduces a novel channel comb arrangement. This allows measurements of high radial resolution profiles (0:5 < r/a < 0:8) of low-k (k⍬⍴s < 0:3) temperature fluctuation amplitudes, frequency spectra and radial correlation length profiles in unprecedented detail. The second diagnostic is formed by the addition of two W-band and one V-band X-mode reflectometers on the same line of sight as the CECE to enable measurements of the phase angle between turbulent density and temperature fluctuations. Historically, the radial alignment between reflectometer and radiometer has been a challenge due to the requirement that alignment is achieved within a radial correlation length (< 5 10 mm). This challenge is significantly alleviated by using the CECE channel comb arrangement and the maximal coherence between reflectometer and radiometer can be unambiguously captured. Measurements of these quantities have been made in an AUG L-mode plasma, at the same radial location and have provided simultaneous quantitative constraints on realistic gyrokinetic simulations [Physics of Plasmas 25, 055903 (2018)] using the gyrokinetic code GENE. Here we present diagnostic detail for this study.
Design of the Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imager Upgrade for measurement of the edge current density on MAST-U
Authors: Allen J.O. , Vincent C. H. , Vann R. G. L.
Published: March 2019

The Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imager (SAMI) has demonstrated the feasibility of 2D Doppler backscattering for measurement of the edge magnetic pitch angle on MAST and NSTX-U. The aim of SAMI-Upgrade (SAMI-U) is to build on this methodology to produce higher quality pitch angle data simultaneously in multiple spatial locations, enabling calculation of the edge current density. This movement from proof of principle to production quality necessitates several alterations to the design. There will be a fourfold increase in the number of antennas, as minimising the sidelobe level is key to ensuring maximum resolution in the reconstructed Doppler backscattered power map. SAMI-U will actively probe the plasma with two frequencies at the same time. These correspond to two diﬀerent backscattering locations in the edge plasma which allows the edge current density to be calculated from the measured magnetic field vector. Dual-polarised sinuous antennas will be used in the array as they are planar and broadband. Polarisation separation is necessary for diﬀerentiation between the O-and X-mode cut oﬀ surfaces, as their locations can be separated by up to a few centimetres. Due to spatial constraints many of the components will be placed on a PCB behind each antenna. FPGAs will be used to stream the high data throughput, over 16 GB s−1, into PC memory.
Assessment of ECH stray radiation levels at the W7-X Michelson Interferometer and Profile Reflectometer
Authors: Oosterbeek Johan. W. , Chaudhary Neha , Hirsch Matthias , Höfel Udo , Wolf Robert. C. ,   W7-X team
Published: March 2019

Electron Cyclotron Heating and Electron Cyclotron Current Drive are key components for heating and control in magnetically confined fusion plasmas. The high power microwaves are not always completely absorbed leading to stray radiation [1], [2]. At W7-X, the total injected microwave power can be up to 7.5 MW @140 GHz while the entire Electron Cyclotron Emission picked-up by an observer at the edge of the plasma is a fraction of a mW. In the situation of a Michelson Interferometer, the principle measurement is the entire ECE spectrum. Thus, any stray radiation is bound to enter the spectrum. In this work initial stray radiation measurements without filters at the location of two microwave receivers -the Michelson Interferometer and the Profile Reflectometer -are discussed. The data is used to dimension a notch filter to be used with the broad band Michelson Interferometer.
Integration of an Electron Cyclotron Imaging diagnostic system on the WEST tokamak
Authors: Sabot Roland , Nam Yoonbum , Brun Cyril , Elbèze Didier , Faisse Frédéric , Gargiulo Laurent , Kim Minwoo , Lee Woochang , Lotte Philippe , Park Hyeon K. , Yun Gunsu ,   WEST team
Published: March 2019

An Electron Cyclotron Emission Imaging (ECEI) diagnostic system for the WEST tokamak has been developed under the UNIST-WEST collaboration. This diagnostic system is designed to overcome accessibility and thermomechanical constraints for long pulse operation. The first O-mode channel will be installed in the first trimester of 2019 to probe the low field side (LFS) of the WEST plasma. Two large metallic reflective mirrors are installed inside the duct which is being used for maintenance access. They are suspended on a rail to facilitate mirror manipulation. The ex-vessel optical system (lens, detection array, etc.) is housed in a compact optical enclosure that fits in a tight free space between the port flange and tokamak access lobby. The design emphasized reproducibility of the precise alignment between in-vessel mirrors and optical enclosure since the both elements must be removed during shutdown period for maintenance access. The overall optical system was fully tested at UNIST last year. The test results demonstrated that the imaging optics can full access at any radial position on the LFS. The 2D beam pattern measurements were consistent with the design values.