bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of DNA viruses in prostate cancer
Authors: Smelov Vitaly , Bzhalava Davit , Arroyo Mühr Laila Sara , Eklund Carina , Komyakov Boris , Gorelov Andrey , Dillner Joakim , Hultin Emilie
Published: April 2016

We tested prostatic secretions from men with and without prostate cancer (13 cases and 13 matched controls) or prostatitis (18 cases and 18 matched controls) with metagenomic sequencing. A large number (>200) of viral reads was only detected among four prostate cancer cases (1 patient each positive for Merkel cell polyomavirus, JC polyomavirus and Human Papillomavirus types 89 or 40, respectively). Lower numbers of reads from a large variety of viruses were detected in all patient groups. Our knowledge of the biology of the prostate may be furthered by the fact that DNA viruses are commonly shed from the prostate and can be readily detected by metagenomic sequencing of expressed prostate secretions.
Genome-wide identification of target genes for miR-204 and miR-211 identifies their proliferation stimulatory role in breast cancer cells
Authors: Lee Hyunkyung , Lee Seungyeon , Bae Hansol , Kang Han-Sung , Kim Sun Jung
Published: April 2016

MiR-204 and miR-211 (miR-204/211) share the same seed site sequence, targeting many of the same genes. Their role in cancer development remains controversial, as both cell proliferative and suppressive effects have been identified. This study aimed to address the relationship between the two structurally similar microRNAs (miRs) by examining their target genes in depth as well as to reveal their contribution in breast cancer cells. Genome-wide pathway analysis with the dysregulated genes after overexpression of either of the two miRs in MCF-7 breast cancer cell identified the “Cancer”- and “Cell signaling”-related pathway as the top pathway for miR-204 and miR-211, respectively. The majority of the target genes for both miRs notably comprised ones that have been characterized to drive cells anti-tumorigenic. Accordingly, the miRs induced the proliferation of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, judged by cell proliferation as well as colony forming assay. Tumor suppressors, MX1 and TXNIP, were proven to be direct targets of the miRs. In addition, a high association was observed between miR-204 and miR-211 expression in breast cancer tissue. Our results indicate that miR-204/211 serve to increase cell proliferation at least in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells by downregulating tumor suppressor genes.
Effect of different levels of nitrogen on rhizosphere bacterial community structure in intensive monoculture of greenhouse lettuce
Authors: Li Jian-Gang , Shen Min-Chong , Hou Jin-Feng , Li Ling , Wu Jun-Xia , Dong Yuan-Hua
Published: April 2016

Pyrosequencing-based analyses revealed significant effects among low (N50), medium (N80), and high (N100) fertilization on community composition involving a long-term monoculture of lettuce in a greenhouse in both summer and winter. The non-fertilized control (CK) treatment was characterized by a higher relative abundance of Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Chloroflexi; however, the average abundance of Firmicutes typically increased in summer, and the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes increased in winter in the N-fertilized treatments. Principle component analysis showed that the distribution of the microbial community was separated by a N gradient with N80 and N100 in the same group in the summer samples, while CK and N50 were in the same group in the winter samples, with the other N-level treatments existing independently. Redundancy analysis revealed that available N, NO3−-N, and NH4+-N, were the main environmental factors affecting the distribution of the bacterial community. Correlation analysis showed that nitrogen affected the shifts of microbial communities by strongly driving the shifts of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria in summer samples, and Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Acidobacteria in winter samples. The study demonstrates a novel example of rhizosphere bacterial diversity and the main factors influencing rizosphere microbial community in continuous vegetable cropping within an intensive greenhouse ecosystem.
The oxygen reduction reaction of ordered porous carbon-supported PtSn catalysts
Authors: Shen Chin-Tien , Wang Kuan-Wen , Tseng Chung-Jen , Lee Kan-Rong , Hsueh Yu-Jui
Published: April 2016

Before and after ADT, the stabilization stems from electronic modification effect of synergistic Sn and OPC addition.
Multifunctional Gd,Ce,Tb co-doped β-tricalcium phosphate porous nanospheres for sustained drug release and bioimaging
Authors: Zhu Genxing , Zhao Ruibo , Li Yaling , Tang Ruikang
Published: April 2016

Uniform Gd,Ce,Tb co-doped β-TCP porous nanospheres are prepared by a solvothermal method using (CH3O)3PO as the organic phosphorus source and they demonstrate multifunctional bioapplications.
Sensitive electrochemical determination of dopamine and uric acid using AuNPs(EDAS)–rGO nanocomposites
Authors: Vinoth Victor , Wu Jerry J. , Anandan Sambandam
Published: April 2016

AuNPs(EDAS) – rGO nanocomposites were prepared by a facile one step sonochemical synthesis process. Here, EDAS acts as an interlinker for anchoring gold on rGO and it also acts both as a reducing agent and a stabilizing agent. The AuNPs(EDAS) – rGO nanocomposites show excellent electro-catalytic activity towards oxidation of DA and UA. The AuNPs(EDAS) – rGO nanocomposites exhibit low detection limits, high sensitivity, it could be a potential candidate for sensing application and in biosensor technology in the future.
Perfluorooctyl bromide traces self-assembled with polymeric nanovesicles for blood pool ultrasound imaging
Authors: Li Hao , Wang Ping , Wang Xuan , Yin Tinghui , Zhou Guofu , Shuai Xintao , Zheng Rongqin
Published: April 2016

A novel perfluorooctyl bromide (PFOB)-loaded nanovesicle with a size of about 500 nm was prepared by self-assembly of an amphiphilic block copolymer, poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PEG-PDLLA), for blood pool ultrasound imaging.
Core–shell structured TiO2@polydopamine for highly active visible-light photocatalysis
Authors: Mao Wen-Xin , Lin Xi-Jie , Zhang Wei , Chi Zi-Xiang , Lyu Rong-Wen , Cao An-Min , Wan Li-Jun
Published: April 2016

This communication reports that the TiO2@polydopamine nanocomposite with a core–shell structure could be a highly active photocatalyst working under visible light.
Palladium-catalysed hydroamidocarbonylation of 1,3-dienes
Authors: Li Haoquan , Fang Xianjie , Jackstell Ralf , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: April 2016

A novel hydroamidocarbonylation reaction of 1,3-diene is developed. Starting from easily available 1,3-dienes, CO and amides, the facile and economic synthesis of a variety of β,γ-unsaturated imides is showcased. The developed catalyst system ([Pd(cinnamyl)Cl]2/Xantphos) is shown to be robust and selective under such reaction conditions.
Unravelling the effect of anchoring groups on the ground and excited state properties of pyrene using computational and spectroscopic methods
Authors: Kathiravan Arunkumar , Panneerselvam Murugesan , Sundaravel Karuppasamy , Pavithra Nagaraj , Srinivasan Venkatesan , Anandan Sambandam , Jaccob Madhavan
Published: April 2016

Anchoring groups play an important role in dye sensitized solar cells (DSCs).
The structure and in situ synthesis investigation of isomorphic mononuclear molecular metal phenylphosphonates
Authors: Wilke Manuel , Buzanich Ana Guilherme , Reinholz Uwe , Rademann Klaus , Emmerling Franziska
Published: April 2016

We describe a fast and effective synthesis for molecular metal phosphonates.
Single molecular catalysis of a redox enzyme on nanoelectrodes
Authors: Han Lianhuan , Wang Wei , Nsabimana Jacques , Yan Jia-Wei , Ren Bin , Zhan Dongping
Published: April 2016

Due to a high turnover coefficient, redox enzymes can serve as current amplifiers which make it possible to explore their catalytic mechanism by electrochemistry at the level of single molecules. On modified nanoelectrodes, the voltammetric behavior of a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) catalyzed hydroperoxide reduction no longer presents a continuous current response, but a staircase current response. Furthermore, single catalytic incidents were captured through a collision mode at a constant potential, from which the turnover number of HRP can be figured out statistically. In addition, the catalytic behavior is dynamic which may be caused by the orientation status of HRP on the surface of the electrode. This modified nanoelectrode methodology provides an electrochemical approach to investigate the single-molecule catalysis of redox enzymes.
Theory of electrostatic phenomena in water-filled Pt nanopores
Authors: Huang Jun , Zhang Jianbo , Eikerling Michael
Published: April 2016

The emerging field of nanoprotonics is concerned with controlling proton distribution and transport in nanoporous media. These phenomena, dictated by the surface charging properties of the host medium, are of vital importance in porous electrodes for fuel cells, electrolysers, supercapacitors and nanofluidic devices. In this theoretical study, we explore the interplay of the metal charging relation with the proton density and oxygen reduction activity in a water-filled nanopore with walls made of platinum. We exploit a non-monotonic charging behavior derived from a refined structural model of the Pt-solution interface. This charging relation replaces the oversimplified linear relation that has been widely used in practical applications. The water-filled pore, with one opening interfacing with a polymer electrolyte membrane as a proton source, always possesses negative surface charge in the potential range of 0–1.0 V (RHE). Therefore, its proton conductivity can be several orders higher than that of pure water. We obtain an analytical expression for the oxygen reduction activity of the nanopore and parameterize it using the polarization data of an ionomer-free thin-film Pt electrode. The structurevs.performance relation of the water-filled Pt nanopore is examined.
Myricetin ameliorates brain injury and neurological deficits via Nrf2 activation after experimental stroke in middle-aged rats
Authors: Wu Shuangchan , Yue Yuan , Peng Anlin , Zhang Lu , Xiang Jin , Cao Xiaoqin , Ding Hong , Yin Shanye
Published: April 2016

The aim of our study was to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of myricetin, a bioactive food compound, on brain injury and neurological deficits after ischemic stroke.
A mechanistic study on guanidine-catalyzed chemical fixation of CO2with 2-aminobenzonitrile to quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione
Authors: Li Weiyi , Yang Na , Lyu Yajing
Published: April 2016

Both basicity of TMG and acidity of the [TMGH]+guanidinium are crucial for a reaction.
Mechanical and tribological characteristics of carbon nanotube-reinforced polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/epoxy composites
Authors: Wang Huaiyuan , Wang Rui , Sun Liyuan , Liu Zhanjian , Zhu Yixing , Zhu Yanji
Published: April 2016

In this study, epoxy (EP) composites filled with different contents of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were fabricated by the solvent evaporation and curing method.
Systematical investigation of in vitro molecular interaction between fluorescent carbon dots and human serum albumin
Authors: Huang Shan , Qiu Hangna , Xie Jiangning , Huang Chusheng , Su Wei , Hu Baoqing , Xiao Qi
Published: April 2016

In vitromolecular interaction between fluorescent CDs and HSA was systematically investigated by multispectroscopic and electrochemical techniques.
Ru doping enhanced resistive switching behavior in InGaZnO thin films
Authors: Li Qin , Li Yanhuai , Gao Leiwen , Ma Fei , Song Zhongxiao , Xu Kewei
Published: April 2016

In this paper, ruthenium (Ru) doped InGaZnO (IGZO:Ru) thin films were deposited by magnetron co-sputtering and the resistive switching behaviors were investigated.
Integrating error-prone PCR and DNA shuffling as an effective molecular evolution strategy for the production of α-ketoglutaric acid byl-amino acid deaminase
Authors: Hossain Gazi Sakir , Shin Hyun-dong , Li Jianghua , Wang Miao , Du Guocheng , Liu Long , Chen Jian
Published: April 2016

l-Amino acid deaminases (LAADs; EC 1.4.3.2) belong to a family of amino acid dehydrogenases that catalyze the formation of α-keto acids froml-amino acids.
Simultaneous synthesis of a deep eutectic solvent and its application in liquid–liquid microextraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from aqueous samples
Authors: Farajzadeh Mir Ali , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza , Feriduni Behruz
Published: April 2016

New generation of solvents, named deep eutectic solvents, were simultaneously synthesized and used as an extraction solvent in a liquid–liquid microextraction method for the extraction and preconcentration of some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Control over the morphology and phase of MnOxformed in the modified Hummers' method and impact on the electrocapacitive properties of MnOx–graphite oxide composite electrodes
Authors: Sun Xiaoming , Liu Peng , Gu Yi , Rufford Thomas E. , Zhao X. S.
Published: April 2016

The controllable morphology and crystalline phase of manganese oxides formed in the Hummer's method have an impact on the electrocapacitive performance of the resulting composite materials.
Melt processability and thermomechanical properties of blends based on polyhydroxyalkanoates and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)
Authors: Larsson Matilda , Markbo Olivia , Jannasch Patric
Published: April 2016

Polyhydroxyalkanoates were first greatly stabilized by an acid wash, and then reaction extruded to produce blends with enhanced interfacial adhesion.
Thiophene-S,S-dioxidized indophenines as high performance n-type organic semiconductors for thin film transistors
Authors: Deng Yunfeng , Sun Bin , Quinn Jesse , He Yinghui , Ellard Jackson , Guo Chang , Li Yuning
Published: April 2016

Three thiophene-S,S-dioxidized indophenines with deep frontier energy levels are synthesized from isatins and thiophene, which exhibit n-type semiconductor performance with high electron mobility of up to 0.11 cm2 V−1 s−1 in thin film transistors.
Dual-channel NIR activatable theranostic prodrug for in vivo spatiotemporal tracking thiol-triggered chemotherapy
Authors: Ye Mingzhou , Wang Xiaohang , Tang Jianbin , Guo Zhiqian , Shen Youqing , Tian He , Zhu Wei-Hong
Published: April 2016

Real-time tracking of where, when, and how prodrugs are established. A novel theranostic prodrug based on the disulfide linkage with two distinct switchable near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence can precisely extract the prodrug release profilein vivothrough dual-channel fluorescent imaging for the first time.
Tandem generation of isocoumarins in hollow microporous organic networks: nitrophenol sensing based on visible light
Authors: Park Nojin , Ko Kyoung Chul , Shin Hee-Won , Lee Sang Moon , Kim Hae Jin , Lee Jin Yong , Son Seung Uk
Published: April 2016

Hollow microporous organic networks bearing isocoumarin moieties (H-IC-MONs) were preparedviaa tandem synthetic approach and applied to nitrophenol sensing using visible light.
Large-pore mesoporous Ca–Si-based bioceramics with high in vitro bioactivity and protein adsorption capability for bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Zhang Xingdi , Zeng Deliang , Li Nan , Jiang Xinquan , Liu Changsheng , Li Yongsheng
Published: April 2016

A new type of large pore mesoporous Ca–Si-based bioceramics demonstrates high in vitro bioactivity and protein adsorption capability.
The dual function of Cu-doped TiO2coatings on titanium for application in percutaneous implants
Authors: Zhang Lan , Guo Jiaqi , Huang Xiaoyan , Zhang Yanni , Han Yong
Published: April 2016

Compared with Ti, a microporous TiO2coating doped with 0.67 wt% Cu2+can improve the behaviors of fibroblasts and inhibit the adhesion and colonization ofS. aureus, simultaneously.
Mechanical force-induced luminescence enhancement and chromism of a nonplanar D–A phenothiazine derivative
Authors: Xue Pengchong , Ding Jipeng , Chen Peng , Wang Panpan , Yao Boqi , Sun Jiabao , Sun Jingbo , Lu Ran
Published: April 2016

A D–A phenothiazine derivative might change its fluorescence color from blue-green to yellow-green under mechanical force stimuli, accompanied by an emission enhancement.
HEY1 functions are regulated by its phosphorylation at Ser-68
Authors: López-Mateo Irene , Arruabarrena-Aristorena Amaia , Artaza-Irigaray Cristina , López Juan A. , Calvo Enrique , Belandia Borja
Published: April 2016

HEY1 (hairy/enhancer-of-split related with YRPW motif 1) is a member of the basic helix–loop–helix-orange (bHLH-O) family of transcription repressors that mediate Notch signalling. HEY1 acts as a positive regulator of the tumour suppressor p53 via still unknown mechanisms. A MALDI-TOF/TOF MS analysis has uncovered a novel HEY1 regulatory phosphorylation event at Ser-68. Strikingly, this single phosphorylation event controls HEY1 stability and function: simulation of HEY1 Ser-68 phosphorylation increases HEY1 protein stability but inhibits its ability to enhance p53 transcriptional activity. Unlike wild-type HEY1, expression of the phosphomimetic mutant HEY1-S68D failed to induce p53-dependent cell cycle arrest and it did not sensitize U2OS cells to p53-activating chemotherapeutic drugs. We have identified two related kinases, STK38 (serine/threonine kinase 38) and STK38L (serine/threonine kinase 38 like), which interact with and phosphorylate HEY1 at Ser-68. HEY1 is phosphorylated at Ser-68 during mitosis and it accumulates in the centrosomes of mitotic cells, suggesting a possible integration of HEY1-dependent signalling in centrosome function. Moreover, HEY1 interacts with a subset of p53-activating ribosomal proteins. Ribosomal stress causes HEY1 relocalization from the nucleoplasm to perinucleolar structures termed nucleolar caps. HEY1 interacts physically with at least one of the ribosomal proteins, RPL11, and both proteins cooperate in the inhibition of MDM2-mediated p53 degradation resulting in a synergistic positive effect on p53 transcriptional activity. HEY1 itself also interacts directly with MDM2 and it is subjected to MDM2-mediated degradation. Simulation of HEY1 Ser-68 phosphorylation prevents its interaction with p53, RPL11 and MDM2 and abolishes HEY1 migration to nucleolar caps upon ribosomal stress. Our findings uncover a novel mechanism for cross-talk between Notch signalling and nucleolar stress.
Return to Work and Social Communication Ability Following Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Douglas Jacinta M. , Bracy Christine A. , Snow Pamela C.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Return to competitive employment presents a major challenge to adults who survive traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study was undertaken to better understand factors that shape employment outcome by comparing the communication profiles and self-awareness of communication deficits of adults who return to and maintain employment with those who do not.

Method

Forty-six dyads (46 adults with TBI, 46 relatives) were recruited into 2 groups based on the current employment status (employed or unemployed) of participants with TBI. Groups did not differ in regard to sex, age, education, preinjury employment, injury severity, or time postinjury. The La Trobe Communication Questionnaire (Douglas, O'Flaherty, & Snow, 2000) was used to measure communication. Group comparisons on La Trobe Communication Questionnaire scores were analyzed by using mixed 2 × 2 analysis of variance (between factor: employment status; within factor: source of perception).

Results

Analysis yielded a significant group main effect (
p
= .002) and a significant interaction (
p
= .004). The employed group reported less frequent difficulties (self and relatives). Consistent with the interaction, unemployed participants perceived themselves to have less frequent difficulties than their relatives perceived, whereas employed participants reported more frequent difficulties than their relatives.

Conclusion

Communication outcome and awareness of communication deficits play an important role in reintegration to the workplace following TBI.
Basic analysis of false turn‐on phenomenon of power semiconductor devices with parasitic inductances
Authors: Umegami H. , Ishibashi H. , Nanamori K. , Hattori F. , Yamamoto M.
Published: April 2016

False turn‐on phenomenon is a critical problem in power converters. The key factor in the analysis of the phenomenon is the Cdv/dt. However, this factor is not so important any longer if parasitic inductances are taken into account. The mathematical analysis reported presents that the false turn‐on problem with parasitic inductances is characterised by two frequencies and four types of balancing factors. The peak gate oscillation voltage can also be evaluated in two different cases. These peak values are evaluated by comparing the mathematical results with simulation results by PSIM and the errors are 5.60 and 2.99%.
Fast transmit waveform design method for interference mitigation in simultaneous multibeam MIMO scheme
Authors: Shi Junnan , Jiu Bo , Liu Yuan , Yan Junkun , Liu Hongwei , Hu Liangbing
Published: April 2016

A fast transmit waveform design method for interference mitigation in simultaneous multibeam MIMO scheme is proposed. The method is aimed at generating a quasi‐optimal beampattern pointing at K targets simultaneously and suppressing J jammers with a set of transmission waveforms at the subpulse level. The subpulse waveforms are optimised by minimising the transmit power of synthesised beampattern at interference directions. Unlike the regular methods, only K subpulse waveforms with J weights are needed to design in this method, which can improve computational efficiency. Simulation results show the effectiveness and benefits of the proposed method.
Forecast aided measurements data synchronisation in robust power system state estimation
Authors: Khosravi Mohsen , Banejad Mahdi , Shandiz Heydar Toossian
Published: April 2016

Backbone of a real time monitoring and controlling operations in power systems is state estimation. The main goal of the paper is to use all useful data (collected by measurements) in the process of the robust state estimation. Data acquisition by Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) has an important role in providing an accurate robust forecasted estimator. Conventional measurements have much lower data transfer rate than the PMUs. On other hands, the number of received data from PMUs is fewer than the conventional measurements and due to this fact, the state of the system are not observable by only PMUs. This fact leads to use the benefits of all kind of measured data. Robustness of the proposed method is guaranteed by rejecting outlier (large amplitude error) by forecasting conventional measurements data and using robustness property of the Kalman filter against noise in data (small amplitude error). Moreover, the proposed estimator tracks dynamic behavior of system much faster than traditional methods. The proposed estimator has been implemented on the IEEE 9‐bus and the IEEE 118‐bus systems. Comparison results of the proposed algorithm with those of a traditional dynamic estimator proves the efficiency, accuracy and robustness of the proposed method against falsified data.
Impact of technical operational details on generation expansion in oligopolistic power markets
Authors: Nogales Adelaida , Wogrin Sonja , Centeno Efraim
Published: April 2016

Renewable generation technologies are expected to reach unprecedented penetration levels in a number of electric power systems. The increased deployment of these renewable technologies is changing the unit commitment of the rest of generation facilities, increasing the need for cycling. As a result, operation‐related issues and their costs become more relevant for an adequate analysis of generation expansion problems. In this study, the authors propose a generation expansion model including an oligopolistic market representation based on an equilibrium approach. It introduces key operation‐related constraints, such as minimum stable output, start‐ups and shut‐downs; and short‐term operating costs, such as commitment, start‐up and shut‐down costs. The proposed model furthermore considers the discrete nature of capacity investment decisions. The authors also propose a heuristic method for solving the arising equilibrium problem, by providing an efficient starting point to the diagonalisation process. This heuristic can lead to reductions of up to 90% in computational time. Finally, case studies are presented in order to illustrate the importance of considering both operational details and a market framework when making generation expansion planning decisions.
Predictive current control of distribution static compensator for load compensation in distribution system
Authors: Venkatraman Kandadai , Selvan Manickavasagam Parvathy , Moorthi Sridharan
Published: April 2016

Predictive control is an emerging alternative in the control of power converters because of its potential for achieving fast transient response and increased control accuracy. Research on this topic has increased in recent years owing to the availability of high speed digital controllers that can be used for the control of power electronic systems. This study proposes a predictive current control scheme for an improved topology of distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM) intended for load compensation. The proposed strategy derives the converter switching pulses using a cost function that defines the desired system behaviour. An improved DSTATCOM topology employing predictive current control algorithm tracks reference current effectively and makes source current sinusoidal and also in‐phase with voltage at the point of common coupling in both steady state and transient conditions. In addition, this scheme does not require any modulation technique. The control scheme has been implemented using field programmable gate array. Simulation and experimentation have been carried out to verify and validate the performance of the proposed scheme and the results are reported in this study.
Analysis and control of photovoltaic‐assisted three‐phase induction machine operating as single‐phase micro‐wind generator
Authors: Chatterjee Arunava , Chatterjee Debashis
Published: April 2016

An improved control methodology for off‐grid, three‐phase induction machine working as a single‐phase generator is presented in this study. A three‐phase machine made to work as a single‐phase generator has advantages of lower size and cost than their single‐phase equivalent in almost all ratings except in the lower fractional kilowatt (kW) ranges. The three‐phase windings are configured as isolated two equivalent phases in the proposed system for this purpose. The machine uses photovoltaic (PV)‐assisted single‐phase inverter to one of its two phases for variable excitation requirement to cater dynamic loads at different rotor speeds besides having a fixed capacitor to provide bulk excitation. A storage battery is used along with the PV panels to improve the reliability of the scheme during low or no insolation periods. A stator‐flux‐oriented control is implemented for regulating the terminal voltage within specified limit at a fixed frequency. The control strategy ensures fixed load voltage and fixed frequency even with perturbations of load or rotor speed. Different simulation results, verified by suitable experiments using a 1 kW, 415 V laboratory prototype, confirm the suitability of the proposed concept.
Strategic CBDR bidding considering FTR and wind power
Authors: Fang Xin , Li Fangxing , Hu Qinran , Wei Yanli
Published: April 2016

The independent system operators (ISOs) usually offer financial transmission right (FTR) as a financial instrument for electricity market participants to hedge against the transmission congestion cost. Meanwhile, the development of demand response (DR) provides load serving entities (LSEs) opportunities to perform coupon based demand response (CBDR) programs, and thus LSEs can behave as strategic bidders in the whole‐sale market by adjusting its demand level. In the existing approaches for modelling CBDR, the potential impact of FTR which leads LSEs to obtain the congestion compensation under a high load level is overlooked. Therefore, this study proposes a comprehensive strategic CBDR model in which the LSE's profit is maximised by providing CBDR to customers and the congestion compensation from the LSE bidder's FTR holding is also considered. The proposed model is formulated as a bi‐level optimisation problem with the LSE's net revenue maximisation as the upper level and the ISO's economic dispatch considering wind power uncertainty as the lower level problem. The bi‐level model is addressed with mathematic program with equilibrium constraints technique and mixed‐integer linear programming, which can be solved using available optimisation software tools. In addition, the case studies of an illustrative two bus system, the PJM 5‐bus system, and IEEE 39‐bus system verify the proposed method.
Propagation of overvoltages transferred through distribution transformers in electric networks
Authors: Florkowski Marek , Furgał Jakub , Kuniewski Maciej
Published: April 2016

The increasing requirements for improved reliability of electrical power devices and optimisation of dielectric insulation design means that the analysis of impact due to overvoltages is of high importance. This analysis should also consider propagation of overvoltages transferred through power transformer windings to other parts of the electrical network. Hazard levels of overvoltages affected the insulation systems of electrical devices are determined by wave propagation conditions of overvoltages as well as the protection level of applied overvoltages protection. The analysis of overvoltages transferred to low voltage networks is very important due to the increasing number of electrical devices and electronic apparatus with low resistance to overvoltages. This study presents a detailed analysis of the propagation of overvoltages transferred through distribution transformer windings, in typical medium and low‐voltage electrical networks. The analysis is based on simulation results carried out by the use of electromagnetic transients program–alternative transients program (EMTP–ATP). A high‐frequency model for transformers done on the basis of frequency characteristics of admittance measurements was used in simulations. Detailed analysis of influence of length of medium‐ and low‐voltage lines connected to the distribution transformers and metal oxide surge arresters on switching overvoltages transferred to low‐voltage networks are presented in the study.
Robust quadratic‐based BFS power flow method for multi‐phase distribution systems
Authors: Mahmoud Karar , Yorino Naoto
Published: April 2016

This study presents an efficient power flow method for analysing distribution systems. The proposed method utilises efficient quadratic‐based (QB) models for various components of distribution systems. The power flow problem is formulated and solved by a backward/forward sweep (BFS) algorithm. The proposed QBBFS method accommodates multi‐phase laterals, different load types, capacitors, distribution transformers, and distributed generation. The advantageous feature of the proposed method is robust convergence characteristics against ill conditions, guaranteeing lower iteration numbers than the existing BFS methods. The proposed method is tested and validated on several distribution test systems. The accuracy is verified using OpenDSS. Comparisons are made with other commonly used BFS methods. The results confirm the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed QBBFS at different conditions.
Optimal real power rescheduling of generators for congestion management using a novel ant lion optimiser
Authors: Verma Sumit , Mukherjee Vivekananda
Published: April 2016

Considering system uncertainties prevailing in the restructured power system, congestion management (CM) is a vital issue in power system operation and control. The objective of CM is to remove congestion in the lines while satisfying all the constraints with minimum congestion cost. This study proposes a generation rescheduling‐based approach for CM in electricity market using a novel ant lion optimiser (ALO) algorithm. ALO is a recently developed the nature‐inspired algorithm based on the hunting mechanism of antlions. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is tested on modified IEEE 30‐bus, modified IEEE 57‐bus and IEEE 118‐bus test systems. The security constraints like load bus voltage and line loading impact are incorporated in this study. To prove the validity of the proposed technique, the obtained results are compared to the results offered by various recent optimisation algorithms. The results show that the proposed ALO algorithm outperforms the other comparative algorithms. The proposed approach uses less number of fitness function evaluations, not traps into local minima and offers promising convergence characteristic. The proposed approach will ease the system operator to remove the contingency rapidly for secured and reliable operation of the power system under deregulated environment.
Green safety index representing traffic levels of service for online application
Authors: Chang Tang‐Hsien , Tseng Jen‐Sung , Ye Yuan‐Hsiang
Published: April 2016

The traditional roadway level of service (LOS) is based on the volume–capacity (V/C) ratio, which measures the volume of traffic. However, this approach does not follow the green transport trend, and it lacks the comprehensive concepts of time cost, environmental protection, and potential social cost of traffic safety. Given the international focus on the development of green economies and transport, this study examined freeways in Taiwan to establish three indicators: cost of travel delay, cost of incremental carbon emissions, and cost of potential accidents. Traffic data from the electronic toll collection system in Taiwan were collected and analysed according to three factors derived from different traffic volumes and travel speeds: time cost, pollution, and traffic safety. The results were integrated into a traffic green safety index to replace the overall evaluation standard for traditional freeway LOS. This index is intended for use in an online software application.
Design of microwave transistor amplifiers with optimum cascaded gain and noise
Authors: Corral Celestino A.
Published: April 2016

The design of microwave transistor amplifiers with optimum cascade noise and gain is described. By treating two stages at a time, the condition for the second stage's noise figure needed to satisfy the total cascaded gain and noise performance is derived. Two optimal solutions are possible: Minimum cascade noise figure or maximum available cascade power gain without increasing the cascade noise over that of the minimum noise design. A design example is submitted showing the effectiveness of the proposed method in optimising the gain and noise of cascaded amplifier stages. The approach can be extended to noise temperature and multiple cascaded stages including passive blocks without any loss of generality.
Hybrid single‐carrier‐based pulse width modulation scheme for single‐phase three‐level neutral‐point‐clamped grid‐side converters in electric railway traction
Authors: Wang Shunliang , Song Wensheng , Zhao Junhui , Feng Xiaoyun
Published: April 2016

AC traction power‐supply systems are vulnerable to the high‐order harmonics from grid‐side rectifiers, which are usually single‐phase three‐level neutral‐point‐clamped (NPC) converters. In this study, a dipolar single‐carrier‐based pulse width modulation (SCBPWM) scheme is first designed for the adopted NPC converter. Then, on the basis of the dipolar SCBPWM scheme, a novel hybrid SCBPWM scheme with both unipolar and dipolar modulation modes is proposed to improve high‐order harmonics and mitigate harmonic resonance. In addition, the voltage‐balancing task of the DC‐link capacitors of the NPC converter can be performed by fine adjustment of the separation coefficient in the hybrid SCBPWM. The salient features of the proposed scheme, as compared with the traditional unipolar double‐carrier‐based pulse width modulation, include: (1) lowered high‐order harmonics and total harmonic distortion of the line current; (2) only one carrier signal needed; and (3) voltage fluctuation suppression of the neutral point. Performance of the proposed hybrid SCBPWM scheme for the NPC converter is verified by experimental results.
Maximising power yield in a transformerless single‐phase grid connected inverter servicing two separate photovoltaic panels
Authors: Debnath Dipankar , Chatterjee Kishore
Published: April 2016

A single‐phase grid connected transformerless inverter for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is presented in this study. This inverter has the capability to extract maximum power from two separate PV panels operating under equal as well as mismatched meteorological conditions. The proposed inverter is based on the buck–boost principle, and hence, can tolerate a wide variation of voltage in both the PV panels. Further, due to the neutral point clamped structure of the inverter the neutral/ground terminal of grid is directly connected at the midpoint of two PV panels. This eliminates the flow of leakage current through the parasitic capacitances existing between the PV panels and the ground. The proposed inverter requires six switches and is free from shoot‐through fault. This inverter does not require sensing of grid current for its operation. The principle of operation of the inverter is presented. The control strategy devised for the inverter is provided. The theoretical analysis is supported through detailed simulation studies carried out on Matlab/Simulink platform. Exhaustive experimental results obtained from a scaled down laboratory prototype developed for the inverter are presented to confirm the validity of the scheme.
Adaptive noise cancellation based harmonic elimination in grid integrated photovoltaic system
Authors: Verma Arun Kumar , Jain Chinmay , Singh Bhim , Shahani Dilip Tekchand
Published: April 2016

In this study, an adaptive noise cancellation technique is applied to eliminate harmonics in a grid integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) system under non‐linear load. A neuron is used to extract a fundamental component from polluted load currents. The proposed system serves multiple functions, as improvement of power quality at point of common coupling including other connected non‐linear loads, extraction of maximum power from a given PV array and feeding extracted solar power into the distribution system. The multiple functionality at a time helps in fast recovery of cost of power converters. The proposed control algorithm is based on adaptive detection of fundamental component. The proposed control algorithm presents an improved sensitivity for fast load changes. This proposed two‐stage PV power generating system is designed, modelled and tested to provide the solutions of several power quality problems in three‐phase four‐wire distribution system.
Centroid features for classification of armed/unarmed multiple personnel using multistatic human micro‐Doppler
Authors: Fioranelli Francesco , Ritchie Matthew , Griffiths Hugh
Published: April 2016

This study analyses the use of human micro‐Doppler signatures collected using a multistatic radar system to identify and classify unarmed and potentially armed personnel walking within a surveillance area. The signatures were recorded in a series of experimental tests and analysed through short time Fourier transform followed by feature extraction and classification. Features based on singular value decomposition and on the centroid of the micro‐Doppler signature are proposed and their suitability for armed versus unarmed classification purposes discussed. It is shown that classification accuracy above 95% can be achieved using a single feature. Features based on the centroid of the signatures are shown to be also effective in cases where there are two people walking together in the same direction and at similar speed, and one of them may be armed or not, i.e. for targets not easily separable in range or in Doppler.
Ambiguities in target motion estimation for general SAR measurements
Authors: Garren David Alan
Published: April 2016

This study investigates the ability to invert synthetic aperture radar (SAR) measurement data in order to obtain unique estimates of the underlying motion parameters of targets within the imaged scene. In particular, this investigation reveals that ambiguities exist in estimating the kinematics parameters of surface targets for cases of general bistatic SAR collections. Specifically, the current study presents a detailed methodology for constructing any number of alternate target trajectories which yield the same set of SAR measurements as that corresponding to the true target motion. Additionally, the target trajectory ambiguities of the current investigation are shown to remain even if the radar system obtains bistatic range‐rate or Doppler measurements. Unambiguous kinematics estimates can be obtained only through additional constraints, as with assumptions that a given surface target lies on the one‐dimensional locus of a road. Thus, the ability to localise and estimate unambiguous target motion parameters relies on the energy intensity patterns of the transmission and reception beams of the radar system. Overall, the current analysis provides a simple, and yet powerful, exposition of the nature of target trajectory ambiguities in monostatic and bistatic SAR imagery.
Interactive cooperation and hierarchical operation of microRNA and transcription factor crosstalk in human transcriptional regulatory network
Authors: Gov Esra , Arga Kazim Yalcin
Published: April 2016

Transcriptional regulation of gene expression is an essential cellular process that is arranged by transcription factors (TFs), microRNAs (miRNA) and their target genes through a variety of mechanisms. Here, we set out to reconstruct a comprehensive transcriptional regulatory network of Homo sapiens consisting of experimentally verified regulatory information on miRNAs, TFs and their target genes. We have performed topological analyses to elucidate the transcriptional regulatory roles of miRNAs and TFs. When we thoroughly investigated the network motifs, different gene regulatory scenarios were observed; whereas, mutual TF‐miRNA regulation (interactive cooperation) and hierarchical operation where miRNAs were the upstream regulators of TFs came into prominence. Otherwise, biological process specific subnetworks were also constructed and integration of gene and miRNA expression data on ovarian cancer was achieved as a case study to observe dynamic patterns of the gene expression. Meanwhile, both co‐operation and hierarchical operation types were determined in active ovarian cancer and process‐specific subnetworks. In addition, the analysis showed that multiple signals from miRNAs were integrated by TFs. Our results demonstrate new insights on the architecture of the human transcriptional regulatory network, and here we present some lessons we gained from deciphering the reciprocal interplay between miRNAs, TFs and their target genes.
Energy utilization in fluctuating biological energy converters
Authors: Szőke Abraham , Hajdu Janos
Published: April 2016

We have argued previously [Szoke et al., FEBS Lett. 553, 18–20 (2003); Curr. Chem. Biol. 1, 53–57 (2007)] that energy utilization and evolution are emergent properties based on a small number of established laws of physics and chemistry. The relevant laws constitute a framework for biology on a level intermediate between quantum chemistry and cell biology. There are legitimate questions whether these concepts are valid at the mesoscopic level. Such systems fluctuate appreciably, so it is not clear what their efficiency is. Advances in fluctuation theorems allow the description of such systems on a molecular level. We attempt to clarify this topic and bridge the biochemical and physical descriptions of mesoscopic systems.
Hexagonal boron nitride and water interaction parameters
Authors: Wu Yanbin , Wagner Lucas K. , Aluru Narayana R.
Published: April 2016

The study of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) in microfluidic and nanofluidic applications at the atomic level requires accurate force field parameters to describe the water-hBN interaction. In this work, we begin with benchmark quality first principles quantum Monte Carlo calculations on the interaction energy between water and hBN, which are used to validate random phase approximation (RPA) calculations. We then proceed with RPA to derive force field parameters, which are used to simulate water contact angle on bulk hBN, attaining a value within the experimental uncertainties. This paper demonstrates that end-to-end multiscale modeling, starting at detailed many-body quantum mechanics and ending with macroscopic properties, with the approximations controlled along the way, is feasible for these systems.
Near infrared laser annealing of CdTe and in-situ measurement of the evolution of structural and optical properties
Authors: Simonds Brian J. , Misra Sudhajit , Paudel Naba , Vandewal Koen , Salleo Alberto , Ferekides Christos , Scarpulla Michael A.
Published: April 2016

The high performance of polycrystalline CdTe thin film solar cells is enabled by annealing in the presence of Cl. This process is typically carried out for tens of minutes resulting in reduction of defect states within the bandgap among other beneficial effects. In this work, we investigate laser annealing as a means of rapidly annealing CdTe using a continuous wave sub-bandgap 1064 nm laser. The partial transmission of the beam allows us to monitor the annealing process in-situ and in real time. We find that optoelectronic and structural changes occur through two distinct kinetic processes resulting in the removal of deep defects and twinned regions, respectively. A multilayer optical model including surface roughness is used to interpret both the in-situ transmission as well as ex-situ reflectivity measurements. These experiments demonstrate beneficial material changes resulting from sub-bandgap laser-driven CdCl2 treatment of CdTe in minutes, which is an important step towards accelerating the processing of the CdTe absorber layer.
Resonant transducers for solid-state plasma density modulation
Authors: Hallock Gary A. , Meier Mark A.
Published: April 2016

We have developed transducers capable of modulating the plasma density and plasma density gradients in indium antimonide. These transducers make use of piezoelectric drivers to excite acoustic pressure resonance at 3λ/2, generating large amplitude standing waves and plasma density modulations. The plasma density has been directly measured using a laser diagnostic. A layered media model shows good agreement with the experimental measurements.
Accurate prediction of hard-sphere virial coefficients B6 to B12 from a compressibility-based equation of state
Authors: Hansen-Goos Hendrik
Published: April 2016

We derive an analytical equation of state for the hard-sphere fluid that is within 0.01% of computer simulations for the whole range of the stable fluid phase. In contrast, the commonly used Carnahan-Starling equation of state deviates by up to 0.3% from simulations. The derivation uses the functional form of the isothermal compressibility from the Percus-Yevick closure of the Ornstein-Zernike relation as a starting point. Two additional degrees of freedom are introduced, which are constrained by requiring the equation of state to (i) recover the exact fourth virial coefficient B4 and (ii) involve only integer coefficients on the level of the ideal gas, while providing best possible agreement with the numerical result for B5. Virial coefficients B6 to B10 obtained from the equation of state are within 0.5% of numerical computations, and coefficients B11 and B12 are within the error of numerical results. We conjecture that even higher virial coefficients are reliably predicted.