bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A POPULATION OF LYCHNOPHORA ERICOIDES MART. (ARNICA) (ASTERACEAE) IS PRONE TO EXTINCTION IN A SAVANNA OF CENTRAL BRAZIL
Authors: Ribeiro-Silva S. , Medeiros M. B. , Lima V. V. F. , Giroldo A. B. , De Noronha S. E. , Resende F. O.
Published: July 2017

Lychnophora ericoides Mart. (Asteraceae), popularly known as arnica, is a plant species subjected to non-timber forest products extraction. Evidence is mounting that some local populations are on the brink of extinction. However, demographic studies of Lychnophora ericoides are rare. Therefore, as a step towards conservation, a remnant population of Lychnophora ericoides located in an area of the Cerrado (Brazilian Savanna) in Central Brazil was evaluated from 2010 through 2014. Disturbances such as wildfires and harvesting of Lychnophora ericoides were randomly distributed throughout the study period in this area. Four annual transition matrices (A1, A2, A3 and A4) were constructed, based on life stages. The main results of studies of population dynamics for this species are as follows: 1) population growth rates (λ) with 95% confidence intervals indicated a declining population in all periods from 2010 to 2014; 2) stochastic population growth rate considering the four matrices was < 1 with value λ = 0.358 and CI95% = (0.354–0.362); 3) survival with permanence at the same stage of reproductive adult individuals (46–80%) contributed most to population growth rate, based on elasticity analysis; 4) the population is much less likely to have increases in density, compared with reduction, for all intervals from 2010 to 2014, based on transient indices; 5) the low value of λ in the high-mortality year was caused by lower stasis of individuals in the seedling or sapling and juvenile life stages, as well as fecundity in the 2011–2012 and 2012–2013 intervals, as shown by a life table response experiment; and 6) 100% of the population will probably be extinct within 15 years. There is evidence that the main cause for local extinction of Lychnophora ericoides could be the effects of frequent wildfires. Based on these results, it is suggested that the time has come for significant conservation efforts to rescue this population, including monitoring, protection and education as the first steps towards protection of this vulnerable plant species.
Different Profiles, Different Choices: Mid-Nineteenth Century Hessians Who Emigrated to the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Wegge Simone A.
Published: July 2017

Before 1890, German emigrants were one of the largest European groups to emigrate overseas in the middle of the nineteenth century. Most of them settled in North America, but a handful of Germans landed in countries south of the equator. This article examines those who chose uncommon paths and settled in the Southern Hemisphere, focusing on Hessians who went to either Australia or South America. Those who emigrated to the Southern Hemisphere were quite different from the Hessians who moved to the United States. More striking, however, are the contrasting backgrounds of the Australian-bound versus the South American–bound groups: These two groups were comparable in size, but in terms of any identifying socioeconomic characteristic they were poles apart from each other. Those bound for Australia were poorer, less skilled, and more likely to use a multiyear migration strategy to get their family members across the ocean, typical of the ways of those bound for the United States. In contrast, those who went to South America were wealthier, more skilled, and mostly emigrated as intact families without the use of such migration networks. This work shows that the choice of destination mattered for individuals and that certain destinations attracted particular types of individuals and groups, reemphasizing the role of self-selection in the migration experience.
Investigation of common, low-frequency and rare genome-wide variation in anorexia nervosa
Authors:   Eating Disorder Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, Huckins L M , Hatzikotoulas K , Southam L , Thornton L M , Steinberg J , Aguilera-McKay F , Treasure J , Schmidt U , Gunasinghe C , Romero A , Curtis C , Rhodes D , Moens J , Kalsi G , Dempster D , Leung R , Keohane A , Burghardt R , Ehrlich S , Hebebrand J , Hinney A , Ludolph A , Walton E , Deloukas P , Hofman A , Palotie A , Palta P , van Rooij F J A , Stirrups K , Adan R , Boni C , Cone R , Dedoussis G , van Furth E , Gonidakis F , Gorwood P , Hudson J , Kaprio J , Kas M , Keski-Rahonen A , Kiezebrink K , Knudsen G-P , Slof-Op 't Landt M C T , Maj M , Monteleone A M , Monteleone P , Raevuori A H , Reichborn-Kjennerud T , Tozzi F , Tsitsika A , van Elburg A , Collier D A , Sullivan P F , Breen G , Bulik C M , Zeggini E
Published: July 2017

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder presenting with dangerously low body weight, and a deep and persistent fear of gaining weight. To date, only one genome-wide significant locus associated with AN has been identified. We performed an exome-chip based genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in 2158 cases from nine populations of European origin and 15 485 ancestrally matched controls. Unlike previous studies, this GWAS also probed association in low-frequency and rare variants. Sixteen independent variants were taken forward forin silicoandde novoreplication (11 common and 5 rare). No findings reached genome-wide significance. Two notable common variants were identified: rs10791286, an intronic variant inOPCML(P=9.89 × 10−6), and rs7700147, an intergenic variant (P=2.93 × 10−5). No low-frequency variant associations were identified at genome-wide significance, although the study was well-powered to detect low-frequency variants with large effect sizes, suggesting that there may be no AN loci in this genomic search space with large effect sizes.
Comparative conventional and phenomics approaches to assess symbiotic effectiveness of Bradyrhizobia strains in soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) to drought
Authors: Govindasamy Venkadasamy , George Priya , Aher Lalitkumar , Ramesh Shunmugiah V. , Thangasamy Arunachalam , Anandan Sivalingam , Raina Susheel Kumar , Kumar Mahesh , Rane Jagadish , Annapurna Kannepalli , Minhas Paramjit Singh
Published: July 2017

Symbiotic effectiveness of rhizobitoxine (Rtx)-producing strains of Bradyrhizobium spp. in soybean (cultivar NRC-37/Ahilya-4) under limited soil moisture conditions was evaluated using phenomics tools such as infrared(IR) thermal and visible imaging. Red, green and blue (RGB) colour pixels were standardized to analyse a total of 1017 IR thermal and 692 visible images. Plants inoculated with the Rtx-producing strains B. elkanii USDA-61 and USDA-94 and successive inoculation by B. diazoefficiens USDA-110 resulted in cooler canopy temperatures and increased canopy greenness. The results of the image analysis of plants inoculated with Rtx-producing strains were correlated with effective nodulation, improved photosynthesis, plant nitrogen status and yield parameters. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed the reliability of the phenomics approach over conventional destructive approaches in assessing the symbiotic effectiveness of Bradyrhizobium strains in soybean plants under watered (87.41–89.96%) and water-stressed (90.54–94.21%) conditions. Multivariate cluster analysis (MCA) revealed two distinct clusters denoting effective (Rtx) and ineffective (non-Rtx) Bradyrhizobium inoculation treatments in soybean. Furthermore, correlation analysis showed that this phenotyping approach is a dependable alternative for screening drought tolerant genotypes or drought resilience symbiosis. This is the first report on the application of non-invasive phenomics techniques, particularly RGB-based image analysis, in assessing plant-microbe symbiotic interactions to impart abiotic stress tolerance.
Resveratrol reverses the Warburg effect by targeting the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in colon cancer cells
Authors: Saunier Elise , Antonio Samantha , Regazzetti Anne , Auzeil Nicolas , Laprévote Olivier , Shay Jerry W. , Coumoul Xavier , Barouki Robert , Benelli Chantal , Huc Laurence , Bortoli Sylvie
Published: July 2017

Resveratrol (RES), a polyphenol found in natural foods, displays anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties potentially beneficial in cancers, in particular in the prevention of tumor growth. However, the rapid metabolism of resveratrol strongly limits its bioavailability. The molecular mechanisms sustaining the potential biological activity of low doses of resveratrol has not been extensively studied and, thus, needs better characterization. Here, we show that resveratrol (10 µM, 48 hr) induces both a cell growth arrest and a metabolic reprogramming in colon cancer cells. Resveratrol modifies the lipidomic profile, increases oxidative capacities and decreases glycolysis, in association with a decreased pentose phosphate activity and an increased ATP production. Resveratrol targets the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex, a key mitochondrial gatekeeper of energy metabolism, leading to an enhanced PDH activity. Calcium chelation, as well as the blockade of the mitochondrial calcium uniport, prevents the resveratrol-induced augmentation in oxidative capacities and the increased PDH activity suggesting that calcium might play a role in the metabolic shift. We further demonstrate that the inhibition of the CamKKB or the downstream AMPK pathway partly abolished the resveratrol-induced increase of glucose oxidation. This suggests that resveratrol might improve the oxidative capacities of cancer cells through the CamKKB/AMPK pathway.
Genomewide Analysis of Clp1 Function in Transcription in Budding Yeast
Authors: Al-Husini Nadra , Sharifi Ali , Mousavi Seyed Ahmad , Chitsaz Hamidreza , Ansari Athar
Published: July 2017

In budding yeast, the 3′ end processing of mRNA and the coupled termination of transcription by RNAPII requires the CF IA complex. We have earlier demonstrated a role for the Clp1 subunit of this complex in termination and promoter-associated transcription of CHA1. To assess the generality of the observed function of Clp1 in transcription, we tested the effect of Clp1 on transcription on a genomewide scale using the Global Run-On-Seq (GRO-Seq) approach. GRO-Seq analysis showed the polymerase reading through the termination signal in the downstream region of highly transcribed genes in a temperature-sensitive mutant of Clp1 at elevated temperature. No such terminator readthrough was observed in the mutant at the permissive temperature. The poly(A)-independent termination of transcription of snoRNAs, however, remained unaffected in the absence of Clp1 activity. These results strongly suggest a role for Clp1 in poly(A)-coupled termination of transcription. Furthermore, the density of antisense transcribing polymerase upstream of the promoter region exhibited an increase in the absence of Clp1 activity, thus implicating Clp1 in promoter directionality. The overall conclusion of these results is that Clp1 plays a general role in poly(A)-coupled termination of RNAPII transcription and in enhancing promoter directionality in budding yeast.
Aggravation of collagen-induced arthritis by orally administered Porphyromonas gingivalis through modulation of the gut microbiota and gut immune system
Authors: Sato Keisuke , Takahashi Naoki , Kato Tamotsu , Matsuda Yumi , Yokoji Mai , Yamada Miki , Nakajima Takako , Kondo Naoki , Endo Naoto , Yamamoto Reiko , Noiri Yuichiro , Ohno Hiroshi , Yamazaki Kazuhisa
Published: July 2017

Porhyromonas gingivalis, a causative bacterium of periodontitis, is implicated in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), mainly because of expressing peptidyl arginine deiminase (PAD) that generates RA-related autoantigens. However, compared with other periodontopathic bacteria, the precise role of P. gingivalis in RA is largely unknown. We found that orally administered P. gingivalis changed the gut microbiome with concomitant elevation of serum endotoxin and inflammatory markers, and impairment of the gut barrier function. Based on findings showing a relationship between gut microbiota and RA, we investigated whether the change of gut microbiota induced by P. gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia, another periodontopathic bacterium without PAD, is associated with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). DBA/1J mice were orally administered with or without bacteria followed by induction of CIA. P. gingivalis, but not P. intermedia, administration significantly aggravated arthritis with increased interleukin-17 levels in sera and culture supernatants, increased Th17 cell proportions among mesenteric lymphocytes, and a significant change in the gut microbiome. However, P. gingivalis administration did not elevate the level of anti-citrullinated protein antibody. These results suggest a unique role of P. gingivalis in the link between periodontitis and RA by affecting the gut immune system and the gut microbiota composition.
IL-4 as a Repurposed Biological Drug for Myocardial Infarction through Augmentation of Reparative Cardiac Macrophages: Proof-of-Concept Data in Mice
Authors: Shintani Yusuke , Ito Tomoya , Fields Laura , Shiraishi Manabu , Ichihara Yuki , Sato Nobuhiko , Podaru Mihai , Kainuma Satoshi , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Suzuki Ken
Published: July 2017

Recent research has shown that reparative (alternatively activated or M2) macrophages play a role in repair of damaged tissues, including the infarcted hearts. Administration of IL-4 is known to augment M2 macrophages. This translational study thus aimed to investigate whether IL-4 administration is useful for the treatment of myocardial infarction. Long-acting IL-4 complex (IL-4c; recombinant IL-4 mixed with anti-IL-4 monoclonal antibody as a stabilizer) was administered after coronary artery ligation in mice. It was observed that IL-4c administration increased accumulation of CD206+F4/80+ M2-like macrophages predominantly in the injured myocardium, compared to the control. Sorted cardiac M2-like macrophages highly expressed wide-ranging tissue repair-related genes. Indeed, IL-4c administration enhanced cardiac function in association with reduced infarct size and enhanced tissue repair (strengthened connective tissue formation, improved microvascular formation and attenuated cardiomyocyte hypertrophy). Experiments using Trib1−/− mice that had a depleted ability to develop M2 macrophages and other in-vitro studies supported that these IL-4-mediated effects were induced via M2-like macrophages. On the other hand, when administered at Day 28 post-MI, the effects of IL-4c were diminished, suggesting a time-frame for IL-4 treatment to be effective. These data represent proof-of-concept of efficacy of IL-4 treatment for acute myocardial infarction, encouraging its further development.
Early life-history predator-prey reversal in two cyprinid fishes
Authors: Šmejkal Marek , Baran Roman , Blabolil Petr , Vejřík Lukáš , Prchalová Marie , Bartoň Daniel , Mrkvička Tomáš , Kubečka Jan
Published: July 2017

Predator-prey relationships are often perceived simply as a situation in which a predator enhances its own fitness while reducing the fitness of its prey. However, this relationship may become reversed when the prey feeds on the juvenile predator stages. We investigated this phenomenon in a model asp (Leuciscus aspius; predator)-bleak (Alburnus alburnus; prey) relationship. The adhesive asp eggs are available for bleak predation after a spawning event for only tens of seconds before they adhere to the stones, where bleak do not forage. Gut content analysis demonstrated that eggs were utilized in high quantities, especially in the spawning peak of the asp reproductive season. Furthermore, using underwater video, we recorded the bleak feeding efficiency on naturally drifting asp eggs as the percentage of eggs eaten. Within the 40 cm egg trajectory captured by our cameras, total egg mortality was 21.2 ± 2.2% on average. The highest survival chances occurred among eggs drifting in aggregations, since the short drifting distance together with their aggregated distribution satiated bleak and part of the egg aggregation could attach to the spawning ground. This study emphasizes the potential efficiency of predator egg utilization by prey, which may have further consequences in predator-prey dynamics.
Corn-like, recoverable γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@TiO2 photocatalyst induced by magnetic dipole interactions
Authors: Wang Fang , Li Manhong , Yu Lifang , Sun Fan , Wang Zhuliang , Zhang Lifang , Zeng Hao , Xu Xiaohong
Published: July 2017

Corn-like, γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@TiO2 core/shell heterostructures were synthesized by a modified solvothermal reduction combined with a sol-gel method. SiO2 shells were first deposited on monodisperse Fe3O4 microspheres by a sol-gel method. Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 corn-like heterostructures were then obtained by sequential TiO2 coating, during which the magnetic dipolar interactions induced the anisotropic self-assembly process. After annealing at 350 °C, the crystalized TiO2 enhanced photocatalytic activity, while Fe3O4 was converted to γ-Fe2O3. The corn-like γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@TiO2 photocatalyst can be recycled and reused by magnet extraction. Despite the photocatalytic activity decreased with each cycle, it can be completely recovered by moderate heating at 200 °C.
Iterative reconstruction improves detection of in-stent restenosis by high-pitch dual-source coronary CT angiography
Authors: Yang Junjie , Yang Xiaobo , De Cecco Carlo N. , Duguay Taylor M. , Chen Zhiye , Tesche Christian , Schoepf U. Joseph , Chen Yundai
Published: July 2017

Recent studies demonstrated that sinogram affirmed iterative reconstructions (SAFIRE) can produce higher-resolution images with greater robustness for the reduction of various imaging artefacts. Eighty-five patients were prospectively evaluated and underwent a high-pitch spiral acquisition CT scan. In-stent noise, signal-to-noise ratio(SNR), stent-lumen attenuation increase ratio (SAIR), and subjective image quality score were measured and compared between the SAFIRE and Filter back projection (FBP) reconstructions. Conventional coronary angiography served as the standard of reference. In 159 evaluated stents, SAFIRE was superior to FBP with regards to in-stent noise, SNR, SAIR, and image quality score. On per-stent analysis, SAFIRE vs. FBP reconstruction yielded 85% vs. 85%sensitivity, 89% vs. 78%specificity, 73% vs. 57%positive predictive value, 95% vs. 94%negative predictive value, and 0.87 vs. 0.82 area under curve, although these improvements did not reach statistical significance (P > 0.05). However, in the subgroup of small diameter stents (≤3 mm; n = 95), specificity(82% vs. 62%), positive predictive value(66% vs. 50%) and area under curve (0.81 vs. 0.70) improved significantly (P < 0.05) with SAFIRE. SAFIRE image reconstruction can thus improve the evaluation for ISR, especially in smaller stents.
Flexible imidazolium macrocycles: building blocks for anion-induced self-assembly
Authors: Yang Yu-Dong , Sessler Jonathan L. , Gong Han-Yuan
Published: July 2017

This feature article summarises recent contributions of the authors in the area of flexible imidazolium macrocycle and related anion-induced supramolecular self-assembly.
A cascade enzymatic reaction activatable gemcitabine prodrug with an AIE-based intracellular light-up apoptotic probe for in situ self-therapeutic monitoring
Authors: Han Haijie , Teng Wenzhuo , Chen Tingting , Zhao Jue , Jin Qiao , Qin Zhihui , Ji Jian
Published: July 2017

A cascade enzymatic reaction activatable gemcitabine prodrug was designed as a theranostic platform for in situ self-therapeutic monitoring of pancreatic cancer cells.
A fully general time-dependent multiconfiguration self-consistent-field method for the electron–nuclear dynamics
Authors: Anzaki Ryoji , Sato Takeshi , Ishikawa Kenichi L.
Published: July 2017

A time-dependent multiconfiguration self-consistent-field method for a system consisting of arbitrarily different kinds and numbers of interacting fermions and bosons.
How active sites facilitate charge-transfer interactions of silver and gold clusters with TCNQ?
Authors: Chen Jing , Luo Zhixun , Yao Jiannian
Published: July 2017

Utilizing a strong electron acceptor molecule tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) as probe, we demonstrate how the electronic features and geometric sites determine charge-transfer interactions of noble metal clusters with organic molecules.
Analysis of metal elements by solution cathode glow discharge-atomic emission spectrometry with a modified pulsation damper
Authors: Wang Jinmei , Tang Pengfei , Zheng Peichao , Zhai Xiang
Published: July 2017

Solution-cathode glow discharge-atomic emission spectrometry (SCGD-AES) with a portable spectrometer was used to detect metal elements in solution.
Monodentate palladium(0)–[60]fullerene complexes of diphosphine ligands as efficient and sustainable nanocatalysts for the Mizoroki–Heck coupling reaction of aryl chlorides
Authors: Sabounchei Seyyed Javad , Hosseinzadeh Marjan , Zarepour-jevinani Morteza , Ghanbari Bahram
Published: July 2017

The present article combines fullerene chemistry with phosphine-based Pd catalytic systems to report new palladium(0)–[60]fullerenes as heterogeneous nanocatalysts for C–C bond transformations of aryl chlorides.
Metal-free-mediated synthesis of fulleropyrrolines by the reaction of [60]fullerene with β-substituted ethylamines
Authors: Xiang Jun-Jun , Huang Cheng , Wang Hui-Juan , Li Fa-Bao , Shi Ji-Long , Huang Yong-Shun , Liu Li , Liu Chao-Yang , Asiri Abdullah M. , Alamry Khalid A.
Published: July 2017

Reaction of [60]fullerene with β-substituted ethylamines under air conditions generated a series of scarce fulleropyrrolines with trisubstituted alkene functional groups in moderate yields.
Simultaneous determination of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2, and M1 in dairy products by high-performance liquid chromatography/fluorescence
Authors: Xing Yanan , Ouyang Qiaofeng , Wang Shaokun , Zhou Xiaoying
Published: July 2017

A fast and reliable method was established for the simultaneous detection of aflatoxins in dairy products by HPLC–FLD coupled with the optimized chromatographic conditions.
Preparation of dexamethasone-loaded calcium phosphate nanoparticles for the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Chen Ying , Li Jingchao , Kawazoe Naoki , Chen Guoping
Published: July 2017

Dexamethasone (DEX)-loaded biphasic calcium phosphate nanoparticles (BCP-NPs) are prepared by incorporation of DEX during or after the formation of BCP-NPs. The DEX-loaded BCP-NPs release DEX in a sustained manner and enhance the osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs.
Organic solar cells based on a Cu2O/FBT-TH4 anode buffer layer with enhanced power conversion efficiency and ambient stability
Authors: Guo Yaxiong , Lei Hongwei , Xiong Liangbin , Li Borui , Fang Guojia
Published: July 2017

We report conjugated polymer FBT-TH4 modified Cu2O as an organic–inorganic integrated hole transport material (HTM) for the first time. The optimized OSCs show a high power conversion efficiency of up to 9.56% based on a model PffBT4T-2OD:PC71BM system. Meanwhile, the HTM significantly improved the long-term stability of the OSCs.
Extra long electron–hole diffusion lengths in CH3NH3PbI3−xClxperovskite single crystals
Authors: Zhang Fengying , Yang Bin , Li Yajuan , Deng Weiqiao , He Rongxing
Published: July 2017

Both trap-state densities and energy levels affect carrier transfer, resulting in a maximum diffusion length of 380 μm in CH3NH3PbI3−xClx(x= 0.005).
The antifungal activity of the peptide, periplanetasin-2, derived from American cockroach Periplaneta americana
Authors: Yun JiEun , Hwang Jae-Sam , Lee Dong Gun
Published: July 2017

The cockroach, which is a household insect, is an established model organism in research. Periplanetasin-2, derived from the American cockroach Periplaneta americana, exerted potent antifungal effect against pathogenic fungi without causing hemolysis. Periplanetasin-2 induced oxidative stress by generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. Periplanetasin-2 also caused apoptosis by exposure of phosphatidylserine and fragmentation of DNA, exerted in a concentration-dependent manner. Hence, we investigated the mitochondrial apoptotic mechanism of periplanetasin-2 in Candida albicans. After treatment with periplanetasin-2, we observed mitochondrial depolarization and calcium accumulation. Moreover, we observed a decrease in cytosolic glutathione, and an increase in mitochondrial glutathione, indicating that periplanetasin-2 induced oxidative stress and high ROS production in the mitochondria. Because of this mitochondrial dysfunction, cytochrome c was released from the mitochondria into the cytosol, and caspase was activated in a time-dependent manner. In summary, the antifungal peptide periplanetasin-2 activates apoptotic signals in the mitochondria by induction of oxidative stress.
Interaction of misfolded proteins and mitochondria in neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Abramov Andrey Y. , Berezhnov Alexey V. , Fedotova Evgeniya I. , Zinchenko Valery P. , Dolgacheva Ludmila P.
Published: July 2017

The number of the people affected by neurodegenerative disorders is growing dramatically due to the ageing of population. The major neurodegenerative diseases share some common pathological features including the involvement of mitochondria in the mechanism of pathology and misfolding and the accumulation of abnormally aggregated proteins. Neurotoxicity of aggregated β-amyloid, tau, α-synuclein and huntingtin is linked to the effects of these proteins on mitochondria. All these misfolded aggregates affect mitochondrial energy metabolism by inhibiting diverse mitochondrial complexes and limit ATP availability in neurones. β-Amyloid, tau, α-synuclein and huntingtin are shown to be involved in increased production of reactive oxygen species, which can be generated in mitochondria or can target this organelle. Most of these aggregated proteins are capable of deregulating mitochondrial calcium handling that, in combination with oxidative stress, lead to opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Despite some of the common features, aggregated β-amyloid, tau, α-synuclein and huntingtin have diverse targets in mitochondria that can partially explain neurotoxic effect of these proteins in different brain regions.
Non‐linear recurrent ANN‐based LFC design considering the new structures of Q matrix
Authors: Nasiruddin Ibraheem , Sharma Gulshan , Niazi K.R. , Bansal R.C.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the design of a non‐linear recurrent artificial neural network (ANN) based load frequency control (LFC) of a two‐area power system interconnected via HVDC tie‐line in parallel with EHVAC line. The control design is based on the combination of robust LFC and optimisation of recurrent ANN so that designed LFC scheme is suitable to handle the diverse operating conditions of power system. The various structures of the state cost weighting matrix (Q), i.e. controllability and observability aspects which affect the dynamics of the power system are used for the LFC design. The feedback gains achieved by the implementation of robust LFC using the different structures of Q are used to effectively train the recurrent ANN‐based LFC design and its performance is analysed with and without system non‐linearity's for 1% step load disturbance in one of the control areas to show the superiority of one design over the others. The closed‐loop system eigenvalues obtained for the system ensure the system stability. Furthermore, the recurrent ANN‐based LFC performance is evaluated for the diverse system operating conditions and compared with multi‐layer perceptron (MLP) ANN‐based and conventional PI control schemes to demonstrate the effectiveness of proposed LFC design scheme.
Performance evaluation of digital filters in distribution static compensator for non‐linear loads
Authors: Chittora Prakash , Singh Alka , Singh Madhusudan
Published: July 2017

This study deals with the performance analysis of three digital filters viz. multiple complex coefficient filter (MCCF), moving average (MA) and Butterworth in distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM) for non‐linear loads. The filters are designed to extract the fundamental component of load current and tested in the closed‐loop control of DSTATCOM. The filters are used to extract fundamental signal from the non‐linear distorted source/load currents and all the lower‐order harmonics present in the non‐linear current drawn by the load. The performance of MCCF filter is compared to conventional filters such as Butterworth and MA filter. The detailed frequency response of MCCF is analysed. The magnitude and phase response plot of the MCCF suggest that this filter has unity gain and zero phase shift at fundamental frequency. All the three filters are implemented on a DSTATCOM for three‐phase, three‐wire distribution system. The DSTATCOM is implemented using a three‐phase voltage source converter controlled using dSPACE 1104 controller. The closed‐loop operation of DSTATCOM designed using MCCF is tested under steady state and dynamic system conditions. Simulation and experimental results are demonstrated with relevant waveforms under different load conditions.
Aneurysms of the Intracranial Segment of the Ophthalmic Artery Trunk: Case Report and Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Biraschi Francesco , Diana Francesco , Colonnese Claudio , Marenco Marco , Delfini Roberto , Peschillo Simone
Published: July 2017

Aneurysms arising from the ophthalmic artery trunk (OAT) are very rare, particularly in the artery's intracranial course. The onset of a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) from a ruptured OAT aneurysm in this segment is extremely rare. We present a case and discuss the anatomy, clinical significance, and therapeutic options for an aneurysm at this site. We also retrospectively analyzed the record of a patient with a ruptured aneurysm of the intracranial segment of the OAT and conducted a comprehensive and systematic review of the PubMed and Scopus databases for literature on this pathology. Only one case report of SAH from an aneurysm of the intracranial segment of the OAT was published in the literature. Only in our case was the intracranial OAT segment aneurysm discovered in the acute phase of SAH. Conventional angiography with three-dimensional acquisition may help detect aneurysms at this level. Detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the OAT is of paramount importance for both surgical and endovascular approaches. Surgical treatment is complex because of difficulties in accessing the orbital region and the risk of optic nerve and vascular injuries. Endovascular treatment, when feasible, could be a good alternative to reduce the risk of loss of vision related to surgical manipulation.
Giant Epidermoid Cyst: A Rare Cause of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Trindade Vinicius , Gomes Marcos , Santo Marcelo , Teixeira Manoel , Paiva Wellingson
Published: July 2017

Introduction Epidermoid tumors represent approximately 0.3 to 1.8% of all intracranial brain tumors. Only 1.5% of all intracranial epidermoid cysts (ECs) invade the brain and secondary epilepsy is extremely rare. Since August 2014, a 59-year-old male smoker had been presenting bad smell feelings, totaling four episodes with sudden onset and duration of 2 minutes. On September 2014, after a sense of smell episode, it evolved into loss of contact and automatic movements followed by generalized tonic–clonic movements. The brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extensive subtemporal lesion affecting anterior, middle, and posterior fossa with invasion of the choroidal fissure and projection to the temporal horn of the lateral ventricle. Pretemporal craniotomy with combined approaches, transsylvian and subtemporal, allowed for the excision of a white keratinized and softened lesion suggestive of EC.

Discussion The optimal surgical strategy in individuals with ECs and seizures is not established. The evaluation of the cause and risk–benefit must be held to choose the appropriate surgical strategy: lesionectomy, lobectomy, or amygdalohippocampectomy. In this case, a lesionectomy was performed due to an absence of evidence of involvement of hippocampus and amygdala.

Conclusion Epilepsy secondary to ECs is a rare association. Lesionectomy can be an option with good results without increasing the morbidity.
Remifentanil up2date – Teil 1
Authors: Bushuven Stefan , Kreuer Sascha , Kranke Peter
Published: July 2017

Remifentanil ist ein kurzwirksames, potentes Opioid mit guter Steuerbarkeit – und vor allem in der ambulanten Anästhesiologie nahezu unverzichtbar. Umso härter trifft uns die seit 2016 eingeschränkte Verfügbarkeit und Kontingentierung. Dieser Beitrag liefert einen Überblick über die Substanz, ihre Geschichte und pharmakologischen Eigenschaften.
A quantum fermion realisation of the finite dimensional spinor representation of Uq(osp(1|2n))
Authors: Yang Hengyun , Zhang Yang
Published: July 2017

The quantum supergroup Uq(osp(1|2n)) admits a finite dimensional spinor representation, which does not have a classical limit. We construct a realisation of this representation on the Fock space of q-fermions. We also generalise the construction to the infinite dimensional spinor representations of Uq(osp(2m+1|2n)) for m,n≥1 by using both quantum bosons and fermions. This leads to a new realisation different from those obtained before by other researchers.
Al transmon qubits on silicon-on-insulator for quantum device integration
Authors: Keller Andrew J. , Dieterle Paul B. , Fang Michael , Berger Brett , Fink Johannes M. , Painter Oskar
Published: July 2017

We present the fabrication and characterization of an aluminum transmon qubit on a silicon-on-insulator substrate. Key to the qubit fabrication is the use of an anhydrous hydrofluoric vapor process which selectively removes the lossy silicon oxide buried underneath the silicon device layer. For a 5.6 GHz qubit measured dispersively by a 7.1 GHz resonator, we find T1 = 3.5 μs and T2* = 2.2 μs. This process in principle permits the co-fabrication of silicon photonic and mechanical elements, providing a route towards chip-scale integration of electro-opto-mechanical transducers for quantum networking of superconducting microwave quantum circuits. The additional processing steps are compatible with established fabrication techniques for aluminum transmon qubits on silicon.
The nonlinear Schrödinger equation with generalized nonlinearities and PT-symmetric potentials: Stable solitons, interactions, and excitations
Authors: Yan Zhenya , Chen Yong
Published: July 2017

We investigate the nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation with generalized nonlinearities and complex non-Hermitian potentials and present the novel parity-time-(PT-) symmetric potentials for the NLS equation with power-law nonlinearities supporting some bright solitons. For distinct types of PT-symmetric potentials including Scarf-II, Hermite-Gaussian, and asymptotically periodic potentials, we, respectively, explore the phase transitions for the linear Hamiltonian operators. Moreover, we analytically find stable bright solitons in the generalized NLS equations with several types of PT-symmetric potentials, and their stability is corroborated by the linear stability spectrum and direct wave-propagation simulations. Interactions of two solitons are also explored. More interestingly, we find that the nonlinearity can excite the unstable linear modes (i.e., possessing broken linear PT-symmetric phase) to stable nonlinear modes. The results may excite potential applications in nonlinear optics, Bose-Einstein condensates, and relevant fields.
Graphitization of self-assembled monolayers using patterned nickel-copper layers
Authors: Yang Gwangseok , Kim Hong-Yeol , Kim Jihyun
Published: July 2017

Controlling the optical and electrical properties of graphene is of great importance because it is directly related to commercialization of graphene-based electronic and optoelectronic devices. The development of a spatially controlled layer-tunable and direct growth method is a favored strategy because it allows for the manipulation of the optical and electrical properties of graphene without complex processes. Here, patterned Ni on Cu layers is employed to achieve spatially thickness-tuned graphene because its thickness depends on the carbon solubility of catalytic metals. Transfer-free graphene is directly grown on an arbitrary target substrate by using self-assembled monolayers as the carbon source. The optical transmittance at a wavelength of 550 nm and the sheet resistance of graphene are adjusted from 65.0% and 2.33 kΩ/◻ to 85.8% and 7.98 kΩ/◻, respectively. Ambipolar behavior with a hole carrier mobility of 3.4 cm2/(V·s) is obtained from the fabricated device. Therefore, a spatially controlled layer-tunable and transfer-free growth method can be used to realize advanced designs for graphene-based optical and electrical devices.
Expert system for condition monitoring of power transformer using fuzzy logic
Authors: Ranga Chilaka , Chandel Ashwani Kumar , Chandel Rajeevan
Published: July 2017

The status of the health of a power transformer is determined by continuously monitoring the condition of its solid and liquid insulations. Appropriate condition monitoring assists in improving the service life of the transformers by initiating suitable actions based on their current health condition. In the present paper, a fuzzy logic model which utilizes the data gathered from various diagnostic tests has been proposed to determine the overall health index of power transformers. The proposed method also determines the individual health index of transformer oil and paper insulations. Furthermore, the model identifies the incipient faults present within the transformers and handles all situations corresponding to single or multiple faults. The proposed fuzzy model overcomes the shortcomings of conventional fault diagnostic methods which are based on dissolved gas analysis. Thirty transformer oil samples of Indian Railways collected from different traction sub-stations have been tested to prove the efficacy and reliability of the technique.
Momentum angular mapping of enhanced Raman scattering of single-walled carbon nanotube
Authors: Rai Padmnabh , Singh Tapender , Brulé Thibault , Bouhelier Alexandre , Finot Eric
Published: July 2017

We perform momentum mapping of the Raman scattering of individual single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) or thin ropes of SWNTs enhanced by surface plasmons sustained by either a linear chain of nanoantennas or flower-shaped nanoparticles. The momentum spectroscopy of Raman scattering of the carbon nanotube (CNT) demonstrates the direct verification of momentum selection rules and identifies the characteristic bands of the molecules or the nanomaterials under scrutiny. The characteristic vibrational signatures of the D, G−, and G bands provide an isotropic response in k-space irrespective of the arrangement of the enhancing platform. However, other dispersive or double resonance bands, such as D−, D+, D′, M, and iTOLA bands appear as a dipolar emission oriented towards the long axis of the CNT regardless of the CNT orientation but strongly depend on the patterning of enhancement of the electromagnetic field.
Neutral gas heating and ion transport in a constricted plasma flow
Authors: Ho Teck Seng , Charles Christine , Boswell Rod
Published: July 2017

Ion-neutral charge exchange collisions are demonstrated to be the dominant heating mechanism in a weakly ionised ∼1  Torr Ar capacitively coupled radiofrequency plasma flowing through a cylinder. In this rarefied regime, thermal conduction is ineffective. The neutral gas temperature is significantly higher in the plasma bulk than in the plasma sheath due to different plasma parameters and ion transport behaviours in these regions. This study is achieved in a computational fluid dynamics and plasma simulation, and is applicable to similar plasmas at different pressures and physical scales.
Automatized convergence of optoelectronic simulations using active machine learning
Authors: Rouet-Leduc Bertrand , Hulbert Claudia , Barros Kipton , Lookman Turab , Humphreys Colin J.
Published: July 2017

A fundamental problem of optoelectronic simulations is to achieve convergence. We use statistical analysis and machine learning to effectively guide the selection of the next device to be examined based upon the expected convergence of the simulation. This active learning strategy rapidly constructs a model that predicts Poisson-Schrödinger simulations of devices and that simultaneously produces fully converged simulations.
Impact of boron diffusion on oxynitrided gate oxides in 4H-SiC metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors
Authors: Cabello M. , Soler V. , Montserrat J. , Rebollo J. , Rafí J. M. , Godignon P.
Published: July 2017

An alternative gate oxide configuration is proposed to enhance the SiO2/SiC interface quality, enabling high mobility 4H-SiC lateral metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs). The gate oxide is prepared by the combination of rapid thermal oxidation in N2O ambient, boron diffusion into SiO2, and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of tetraethyl orthosilicate oxide. Capacitance-voltage (C-V) and conductance-voltage (G-V) measurements on fabricated capacitors reveal a reduction of both interface trap and near interface oxide trap densities. The fabrication of MOSFETs with very high field-effect mobility (μfe) values, up to 160 cm2/V s, is enabled. Several channel orientations, with respect to the wafer flat {112¯0}, have been studied to check μfe values and isotropy. Higher μfe values are obtained for a channel orientation of 90°. Boron distribution is studied by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and time of flight SIMS. We propose that the combination of boron and nitrogen induces changes in the structure of the gate oxide which are positive in terms of the SiO2/SiC interface quality.
Identifying early modern human ecological niche expansions and associated cultural dynamics in the South African Middle Stone Age
Authors: d’Errico Francesco , Banks William E. , Warren Dan L. , Sgubin Giovanni , van Niekerk Karen , Henshilwood Christopher , Daniau Anne-Laure , Sánchez Goñi María Fernanda
Published: July 2017

The archaeological record shows that typically human cultural traits emerged at different times, in different parts of the world, and among different hominin taxa. This pattern suggests that their emergence is the outcome of complex and nonlinear evolutionary trajectories, influenced by environmental, demographic, and social factors, that need to be understood and traced at regional scales. The application of predictive algorithms using archaeological and paleoenvironmental data allows one to estimate the ecological niches occupied by past human populations and identify niche changes through time, thus providing the possibility of investigating relationships between cultural innovations and possible niche shifts. By using such methods to examine two key southern Africa archaeological cultures, the Still Bay [76–71 thousand years before present (ka)] and the Howiesons Poort (HP; 66–59 ka), we identify a niche shift characterized by a significant expansion in the breadth of the HP ecological niche. This expansion is coincident with aridification occurring across Marine Isotope Stage 4 (ca.72–60 ka) and especially pronounced at 60 ka. We argue that this niche shift was made possible by the development of a flexible technological system, reliant on composite tools and cultural transmission strategies based more on “product copying” rather than “process copying.” These results counter the one niche/one human taxon equation. They indicate that what makes our cultures, and probably the cultures of other members of our lineage, unique is their flexibility and ability to produce innovations that allow a population to shift its ecological niche.
In situ heavy ion irradiation in ferritic/martensitic ODS steels at 500°C
Authors: Yao Zhongwen , Zhang Ken He , Zhou Zhangjian , Daymond Mark R. , Jublot-Leclerc Stephanie , Kaitasov Odile
Published: July 2017

Three different ferritic/martensitic oxide dispersion-strengthened steels (9Cr, 12Cr and 16Cr) were irradiated using dual beam ions (Kr+ and He+), with in situ transmission electron microscope observation. Helium was found to be essential in cavity nucleation and growth. The 9Cr alloy presented the lowest formation of cavities among the three irradiated steels, which is attributed to the presence of significant amounts of martensite. During the irradiation of 16Cr alloy with dual beam ions, cavity segregation to grain boundaries was observed at a relatively low dose ∼1 dpa, whereas it occurred at ∼2 dpa in 9Cr and 12Cr alloys. Nano-sized Y–Ti–O particles were stable during the entire irradiation to ∼8 dpa. The lattice defects were characterised and mainly consist of [Formula: see text] interstitial loops.
Laser additive manufacturing of M2 high-speed steel
Authors: Zhang Min , Chen Changjun , Qin Lanlan , Yan Kai , Cheng Guangping , Jing Hemin , Zou Tao
Published: July 2017

M2 high-speed steel samples were fabricated by laser additive manufacturing and tempered at different times at a temperature of 560°C. The microstructures of deposited samples were characterised by fine equiaxial grains, dendrites and inter-dendritic network-shape eutectic carbides and were composed of supersaturated martensite, retained austenite and M2C-type carbides. The content of retained austenite gradually decreased with increasing tempering times. Meanwhile, the micro-hardness of deposited samples was 688 ± 10 HV, while the first, second and third tempering times were 833 ± 13 Hv, 710 ± 6 Hv and 740 ± 7 Hv, respectively (standard deviations).Wear resistances of all samples showed an adhesive wear mechanism, and M2 HSS without tempering had a lower friction coefficient with an average of 0.52. M2 HSS after tempering twice at 560°C/2 h had a larger wear volume loss than others.
Comparing Otoliths and Scales as Structures Used to Estimate Ages of Largemouth Bass: Consequences of Biased Age Estimates
Authors: Tyszko Stephen M. , Pritt Jeremy J.
Published: July 2017

Management agencies often estimate the ages of Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides based on the examination of scales—a structure that is known to produce biased estimates—without knowing how the associated bias affects management decisions. We sought to understand the effects of this bias by comparing population metrics that were predicted using scale-derived and otolith-derived age data. We collected scales and otoliths from Largemouth Bass that were sampled during standard electrofishing surveys. The age of each fish was estimated independently by three separate readers using both scales and otoliths. We assessed the average coefficient of variation for scale-derived and otolith-derived age estimates, examined the bias of scale-derived age estimates, and estimated von Bertalanffy growth model parameters by using ages estimated from scales and otoliths. These parameter estimates were used in yield-per-recruit simulations that predicted yield and the percentage of individuals in the cohort surviving to 380 mm (proportional size distribution [PSD] 380) or to 470 mm (PSD 470) at several levels of natural mortality and fishing mortality. Otolith-derived age estimates were more precise; scale-derived age estimates showed significant positive bias for fish younger than age 6 and significant negative bias for fish older than age 6. Von Bertalanffy parameter estimates were significantly different when using ages estimated from scales and those estimated from otoliths. Modeling indicated that estimates of yield and PSD 380 resulting from the two structures were similar. However, the use of scale-derived ages resulted in underestimating the impact of fishing mortality on PSD 470 by as much as five times at low levels of natural mortality and fishing mortality. Our estimates of precision and bias were similar to other comparisons of scales and otoliths, and the results of our yield-per-recruit simulations are likely generally applicable for Largemouth Bass management. Trophy fishing is a common management objective, and managers relying on scale-based age data could be less likely to adopt the restrictive harvest regulations that are critical for producing trophy Largemouth Bass.

Received November 17, 2016; accepted June 22, 2017 Published online August 22, 2017