bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the cardioprotective potential of extracellular vesicles – a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wendt Sebastian , Goetzenich Andreas , Goettsch Claudia , Stoppe Christian , Bleilevens Christian , Kraemer Sandra , Benstoem Carina
Published: October 2018

Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death worldwide, demanding new treatments and interventions. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) came in focus as important carriers of protective molecules such as miRNAs and proteins which might contribute to e.g. improved cardiac function after myocardial infarction. EVs can be secreted from almost every cell type in the human body and can be transferred via the bloodstream in almost every compartment. To provide an all-encompassing overview of studies investigating these beneficial properties of EVs we performed a systematic review/meta-analysis of studies investigating the cardioprotective characteristics of EVs. Forty-three studies were investigated and catalogued according to the EV source. We provide an in-depth analysis of the purification method, size of the EVs, the conducted experiments to investigate the beneficial properties of EVs as well as the major effector molecule encapsulated in EVs mediating protection. This study provides evidence that EVs from different cell types and body fluids provide cardioprotection in different in vivo and in vitro studies. A meta-analysis was performed to estimate the underlying effect size. In conclusion, we demonstrated that EVs from different sources might serve as a promising tool for treating cardiovascular diseases in the future.
Establishment of a dual-wavelength spectrophotometric method for analysing and detecting carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Takeuchi Dan , Akeda Yukihiro , Sugawara Yo , Sakamoto Noriko , Yamamoto Norihisa , Shanmugakani Rathina Kumar , Ishihara Takuma , Shintani Ayumi , Tomono Kazunori , Hamada Shigeyuki
Published: October 2018

The spread of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) is an increasing global public health concern. The development of simple and reliable methods for CPE detection is required in the clinical setting. This study aimed to establish a dual-wavelength measurement method using an ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer to rapidly quantify imipenem hydrolysis in bacterial cell suspensions. The hydrolytic activities of 148 strains including various CPE strains (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, and Enterobacter aerogenes containing the blaIMP, blaKPC, blaNDM, blaOXA, and blaVIM genes) were measured and analysed. A cut-off value was obtained for differentiation between CPE and non-CPE strains, and the method had high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (100%) within 60 min. Our system has potential clinical applications in detecting CPE.
Synthesis, characterization and in vitro biological evaluation of two matrine derivatives
Authors: Cheng Xingan , Ye Jingmin , He Huiqing , Liu Zhanmei , Xu Chunbao , Wu Bo , Xiong Xialing , Shu Xugang , Jiang Xuhong , Qin Xiangjing
Published: October 2018

Matrine is a traditional Chinese medicine and botanical pesticide with broad biological activities, including pharmacological and agricultural activities. In present work, two matrine derivatives have been successfully synthesized via introducing indole and cyclohexylamino to 13 position of matrine, respectively, with sophocarpine as starting material, and structurally characterized via infrared spectroscopy(IR), MS, 1 H NMR, 13 C NMR and X-ray crystal diffraction. The results of the in vitro biological activity tests showed that these two matrine derivatives exhibited even better activities against human cancer cells Hela229 and insect cell line Sf9 from Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) than that of parent matrine, suggesting that the heterocyclic or cyclic group can dramatically increase the biological activity of matrine. It is worth to mention that 13-indole-matrine could possibly inhibit the growth of insect cells or human cancer cells by inducing cell apoptosis. The results of the present study provide useful information for further structural modifications of these compounds and for exploring new, potent anti-cancer agents and environment friendly pesticides.
Combination of immune checkpoint blockade with DNA cancer vaccine induces potent antitumor immunity against P815 mastocytoma
Authors: Lopes Alessandra , Vanvarenberg Kevin , Kos Špela , Lucas Sophie , Colau Didier , Van den Eynde Benoît , Préat Véronique , Vandermeulen Gaëlle
Published: October 2018

DNA vaccination against cancer has become a promising strategy for inducing a specific and long-lasting antitumor immunity. However, DNA vaccines fail to generate potent immune responses when used as a single therapy. To enhance their activity into the tumor, a DNA vaccine against murine P815 mastocytoma was combined with antibodies directed against the immune checkpoints CTLA4 and PD1. The combination of these two strategies delayed tumor growth and enhanced specific antitumor immune cell infiltration in comparison to the corresponding single therapies. The combination also promoted IFNg, IL12 and granzyme B production in the tumor microenvironment and decreased the formation of liver metastasis in a very early phase of tumor development, enabling 90% survival. These results underline the complementarity of DNA vaccination and immune checkpoint blockers in inducing a potent immune response, by exploiting the generation of antigen-specific T cells by the vaccine and the ability of immune checkpoint blockers to enhance T cell activity and infiltration in the tumor. These findings suggest how and why a rational combination therapy can overcome the limits of DNA vaccination but could also allow responses to immune checkpoint blockers in a larger proportion of subjects.
Frequencies of poor metabolizer alleles of 12 pharmacogenomic actionable genes in Punjabi Sikhs of Indian Origin
Authors: Sanghera Dharambir K. , Bejar Cynthia , Sapkota Bishwa , Wander Gurpreet S. , Ralhan Sarju
Published: October 2018

Diversity in drug response is attributed to both genetic and non-genetic factors. However, there is paucity of pharmacogenetics information across ethnically and genetically diverse populations of India. Here, we have analyzed 21 SNPs from 12 pharmacogenomics genes in Punjabi Sikhs of Indian origin (N = 1,616), as part of the Sikh Diabetes Study (SDS). We compared the allele frequency of poor metabolism (PM) phenotype among Sikhs across other major global populations from the Exome Aggregation Consortium and 1000 Genomes. The PM phenotype of CYP1A2*1 F for slow metabolism of caffeine and carcinogens was significantly higher in Indians (SDS 42%, GIH [Gujarati] 51%, SAS [Pakistani] 45%) compared to Europeans 29% (pgenotype = 5.3E-05). Similarly, South Asians had a significantly higher frequency of CYP2C9*3 (12% SDS, 13% GIH, 11% SAS) vs. 7% in Europeans (pgenotype = <1.0E-05) and ‘T’ allele of CYP4F2 (36%) SDS, (43%) GIH, 40% (SAS) vs. (29%) in Europeans (pgenotype = <1.0E-05); both associated with a higher risk of bleeding with warfarin. All South Asians –the Sikhs (0.36), GIH (0.34), and SAS (0.36) had a higher frequency of the NAT2*6 allele (linked with slow acetylation of isoniazid) compared to Europeans (0.29). Additionally, the prevalence of the low activity ‘C’ allele of MTHFR (rs1801131) was highest in Sikhs compared to all other ethnic groups [SDS (44%), GIH (39%), SAS (42%) and European (32%) (pgenotype = <1.0E-05)]. SNPs in MTHFR affect metabolism of statins, 5-fluorouracil and methotrexate-based cancer drugs. These findings underscore the need for evaluation of other endogamous ethnic groups of India and beyond for establishing a global benchmark for pre-emptive genotyping in drug metabolizing genes before beginning therapeutic intervention.
Collective behavior of oscillating electric dipoles
Authors: Olmi Simona , Gori Matteo , Donato Irene , Pettini Marco
Published: October 2018

We investigate the dynamics of a population of identical biomolecules mimicked as electric dipoles with random orientations and positions in space and oscillating with their intrinsic frequencies. The biomolecules, beyond being coupled among themselves via the dipolar interaction, are also driven by a common external energy supply. A collective mode emerges by decreasing the average distance among the molecules as testified by the emergence of a clear peak in the power spectrum of the total dipole moment. This is due to a coherent vibration of the most part of the molecules at a frequency definitely larger than their own frequencies corresponding to a partial cluster synchronization of the biomolecules. These results can be verified experimentally via spectroscopic investigations of the strength of the intermolecular electrodynamic interactions, thus being able to test the possible biological relevance of the observed macroscopic mode.
Impact of pulmonary emphysema on exercise capacity and its physiological determinants in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Smith Benjamin M. , Jensen Dennis , Brosseau Marc , Benedetti Andrea , Coxson Harvey O. , Bourbeau Jean
Published: October 2018

Exercise limitation is common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We determined the impact of pulmonary emphysema on the physiological response to exercise independent of contemporary measures of COPD severity. Smokers 40–79 years old with COPD underwent computed tomography, pulmonary function tesing, and symptom-limited incremental exercise testing. COPD severity was quantified according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) by spirometry (GOLD 1–4); and symptom burden and exacerbation risk (GOLD A-D). Emphysema severity was quantified as the percent lung volume <−950 Hounsfield units. Regression models adjusted for age, gender, body size, smoking status, airflow limitation, symptom burden and exacerbation risk. Among 67 COPD subjects (age 67 ± 8 years; 75% male; GOLD 1–4: 11%, 43%, 30%, 16%), median percent emphysema was 11%, and peak power output (PPO) was 61 ± 32 W. Higher percent emphysema independently predicted lower PPO (−24 W per 10% increment in emphysema; 95%CI −41 to −7 W). Throughout exercise, higher percent emphysema predicted 1) higher minute ventilation, ventilatory equivalent for CO2, and heart rate; and 2) lower oxy-hemoglobin saturation, and end-tidal PCO2. Independent of contemporary measures of COPD severity, the extent of pulmonary emphysema predicts lower exercise capacity, ventilatory inefficiency, impaired gas-exchange and increased heart rate response to exercise.
Withaferin A inhibits Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Kyakulaga Al Hassan , Aqil Farrukh , Munagala Radha , Gupta Ramesh C.
Published: October 2018

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and in the United States. Despite recent advancements in treatment approaches, metastasis remains a major therapeutic challenge in lung cancer and explains the extremely poor prognosis. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a complex process of cellular reprogramming has become an attractive drug target because it plays a crucial role in the metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In the present study, we examined the effects of withaferin A (WFA), a plant-derived steroidal lactone on EMT in human NSCLC cell lines. First, we demonstrated that WFA displayed time- and concentration-dependent cytotoxicity on A549 and H1299 NSCLC cells. Then, cells were exposed to ≤ 0.5 µM WFA for ≤ 4 h to minimize cytotoxicity and determined its effects on EMT, cell adhesion, motility, migration, and invasion. EMT induction was performed by culturing cells in serum-free media containing TGFβ1 (5 ng/mL) and TNFα (25 ng/mL) for 48 h. We observed that pretreatment of cells with WFA inhibited cell adhesion, migration, and invasion of A549 and H1299 cells. Using western blot, immunofluorescence, and qRT-PCR analysis, we demonstrated that WFA suppressed TGFβ1 and TNFα-induced EMT in both cell lines. Mechanistically, WFA suppressed the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2/3 and NF-κB in A549 and H1299 cells. Together, our study provides additional evidence demonstrating the inhibitory effects of WFA on EMT induction in NSCLC cells and further demonstrates the therapeutic potential of WFA against the metastasis in NSCLC.
OsARD4 encoding an acireductone dioxygenase improves root architecture in rice by promoting development of secondary roots
Authors: Ramanathan Valarmathi , Rahman Hifzur , Subramanian Saravanan , Nallathambi Jagadeeshselvam , Kaliyaperumal Ashokkumar , Manickam Sudha , Ranganathan Chandrababu , Muthurajan Raveendran
Published: October 2018

This study was aimed at unravelling the molecular basis of root growth behavior in a drought-tolerant upland rice genotype, Nootripathu. Root tips of Nootripathu were found to possess shorter root caps and a greater number of dividing cells, favoring faster elongation compared to shallow-rooted IR20. Width and length of cortical cells in the roots of rapidly growing Nootripathu were found to be two to three times higher than IR20. Evaluation of shallow-rooted IR20, deep-rooted Nootripathu and their Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) for root characteristics revealed the presence of genetic variation for root traits among RILs. 2D-PAGE analysis of proteins in roots of IR20, Nootripathu and bulks of extreme RILs differing in root traits resulted in the identification of proteins co-segregating with root growth behavior and co-localized with QTLs for root traits. A putative candidate gene, OsARD4, encoding an “acireductone dioxygenase” was validated for its role in modulating the root growth pattern through genetic transformation. Transgenic ASD16 rice plants engineered for the overexpression of OsARD4 exhibited root growth characteristics similar to those of Nootripathu, including faster radical emergence, more rapid elongation of primary roots, early initiation of crown/lateral roots, and higher root biomass than the non-transgenic plants.
Negative Magnetoresistance in Nanotwinned NiMnGa Epitaxial Films
Authors: Golub V. O. , Chernenko V. A. , Apolinario A. , Aseguinolaza I. R. , Araujo J. P. , Salyuk O. , Barandiaran J. M. , Kakazei G. N.
Published: October 2018

Magnetic shape memory alloys are under intensive investigation due to their unusual physical properties, such as magnetic shape memory effect, magnetic field induced superelasticity, direct and inverse magnetocaloric effect etc., promising for novel applications. One of the intriguing properties of these materials in a single phase state is a giant magnetoresistance. Here we report the remarkable results about the magnetoresistive properties of epitaxial films of Ni52.3Mn26.8Ga20.9 magnetic shape memory alloy in the temperature range of 100–370 K, well below the martensitic transformation temperature. It was found that the formation of non-collinear magnetic structure due to a nanotwinning of the film results in electron scattering on such a structure and noticeable negative magnetoresistance in the entire investigated temperature range.
The transcriptomic response of Streptococcus pneumoniae following exposure to cigarette smoke extract
Authors: Manna Sam , Waring Alicia , Papanicolaou Angelica , Hall Nathan E. , Bozinovski Steven , Dunne Eileen M. , Satzke Catherine
Published: October 2018

Exposure to cigarette smoke is a risk factor for respiratory diseases. Although most research has focused on its effects on the host, cigarette smoke can also directly affect respiratory pathogens, in some cases enhancing virulence. Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia worldwide, however data on the effects of cigarette smoke on the pneumococcus are sparse. Using RNA-seq, we show that pneumococci exposed to cigarette smoke extract in a concentrated acute exposure in vitro model initiate a ‘survival’ transcriptional response including the upregulation of detoxification enzymes, efflux pumps and osmoregulator transporters, as well as the downregulation of fatty acid and D-alanyl lipoteichoic acid biosynthesis genes. Except for the downregulation of the pneumolysin gene, there were no changes in the expression of major virulence factors following exposure to cigarette smoke. Compared to unexposed pneumococci, smoke-exposed pneumococci did not exhibit any changes in viability, adherence, hydrophobicity or cell lysis susceptibility. In this study, we demonstrate that pneumococci adapt to acute noxious cigarette smoke exposure by inducing a gene expression signature that allows the bacteria to resist its harmful effects.
Quantification of ash sedimentation dynamics through depolarisation imaging with AshCam
Authors: Esse Ben , Burton Michael , Varnam Matthew , Kazahaya Ryunosuke , Wallace Paul A. , Von-Aulock Felix , Lavallée Yan , Salerno Giuseppe , Scollo Simona , Coe Hugh
Published: October 2018

Even modest ash-rich volcanic eruptions can severely impact a range of human activities, especially air travel. The dispersal of ash in these eruptions depends critically on aggregation and sedimentation processes – however these are difficult to quantify in volcanic plumes. Here, we image ash dynamics from mild explosive activity at Santiaguito Volcano, Guatemala, by measuring the depolarisation of scattered sunlight by non-spherical ash particles, allowing the dynamics of diffuse ash plumes to be investigated with high temporal resolution (>1 Hz). We measure the ash settling velocity downwind from the main plume, and compare it directly with ground sampled ash particles, finding good agreement with a sedimentation model based on particle size. Our new, cost-effective technique leverages existing technology, opening a new frontier of integrated ash visualisation and ground collection studies which could test models of ash coagulation and sedimentation, leading to improved ash dispersion forecasts. This will provide risk managers with improved data quality on ash location, reducing the economic and societal impacts of future ash-rich eruptions.
Production of value-added chemicals from glycerol using in vitro enzymatic cascades
Authors: Li Zhong , Yan Jinxin , Sun Jinkai , Xu Ping , Ma Cuiqing , Gao Chao
Published: October 2018

The large surplus of glycerol derived from the expanding biofuel industry raises economic and environmental concerns regarding disposal. In vitro synthetic biology is emerging as a useful biomanufacturing platform while the conversion of glycerol is rarely investigated. Here we develop a thermostable in vitro synthetic biosystem consisting of three enzymatic cascades for the biotransformation of glycerol into valuable chemicals with different degrees of reduction. Condensation of glycerol, phenol, and ammonium into l-tyrosine is achieved using four enzymes without the assistance of NAD+/NADH-related redox reactions. Production of chemicals with high degrees of reduction (e.g., optically pure l-lactate and d-lactate) is also verified through coupling with an NADH-regeneration system. The biotransformation of glycerol and ammonium into l-serine is achieved using four enzymes with self-sufficient NADH recycling.
Mechanical Systems for Energy Storage – Scale and Environmental Issues. Pumped Hydroelectric and Compressed Air Energy Storage
Authors: Evans David J. , Carpenter Gideon , Farr Gareth
Published: October 2018

This chapter introduces large-scale utility (bulk) energy storage in the form of pumped hydroelectric and compressed air energy storage. Both are mechanical energy storage technologies, converting electrical energy into potential energy, and both fall into the category of grid-scale energy management. Brief reviews and discussions relating to the general operational aspects and the legislative and environmental aspects of the two storage types are provided in the context of UK development. Both storage technologies offer the potential for better integration and penetration of renewable electricity sources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Electrical Storage
Authors: Shao Han , Narayanasamy Padmanathan , Razeeb Kafil M. , Lynch Robert P. , Rhen Fernando M. F.
Published: October 2018

Short-duration fluctuations of electricity supply and demand can cause instability in electricity grids and utility systems. These fluctuations are usually corrected using fast response time electrical energy storage devices that have high power and low storage capacity, hence they are never noticed by the end user. This chapter covers basic aspects of the most important electrical energy storage devices in this category, including supercapacitors and supercapatteries, superconducting magnetic energy storage devices, flywheels and synchronous condensers. Their fast response times and high efficiencies, particularly when storing energy for short durations, makes these devices very suitable for the continuous stabilisation of energy systems. Furthermore, the coupling of these devices to dc and ac electrical networks can provide natural instantaneous responses that stabilise such systems.
Smart Energy Systems
Authors: Paardekooper Susana , Lund Rasmus , Lund Henrik
Published: October 2018

Smart energy systems are a concept to support the design of coherent and sustainable energy supply strategies. A smart energy system is a combination of the currently isolated energy sectors, such as electricity, heating and transport, and it includes three smart energy grid infrastructures, namely the electricity, thermal and gas grids. These grids connect the energy resources with the demands, energy production, energy storage and interconnection points. When these grids and sectors are analysed in detail and assessed as one coherent energy system, a number of synergies can be identified across the sectors, which an approach that considers only one or two sectors could not have done. The two studies ‘IDA's Energy Vision 2050’ and ‘Smart Energy Europe’ are used as case studies to demonstrate and discuss the potential of the smart energy approach. In these studies, different storage options are considered and analysed, and generally it is found that hydroelectric storage, batteries in electric vehicles, thermal storage in district heating systems and storage of renewable electrofuels are important and provide a cost-efficient flexibility to the overall energy system. However, large-scale batteries on the grid level and stationary batteries in buildings are not found feasible in an energy system perspective.
Life-cycle Analysis for Assessing Environmental Impact
Authors: Hottenroth Heidi , Peters Jens , Baumann Manuel , Viere Tobias , Tietze Ingela
Published: October 2018

In this chapter, stationary energy storage systems are assessed concerning their environmental impacts via life-cycle assessment (LCA). The considered storage technologies are pumped hydroelectric storage, different types of batteries and heat storage. After a general introduction to the method of LCA, some methodological implications for energy storage systems and the selection of impact indicators are outlined. Subsequently, the environmental impacts of different energy storage options are assessed in three case studies. The first case study compares pumped hydroelectric storage and utility-scale battery storage applying a screening LCA. Both of the two following case studies are based on an island micro grid application and follow a stepwise approach. The starting point is a pair of cost-optimal energy scenarios – one with and the other without use of stationary battery storage. First, based on the given operational parameters, the environmental performance of different lithium-ion batteries is assessed. This allows the identification of the most appropriate battery chemistry for this specific application (case study 2). Applying these results, the battery-using energy system scenario is compared in terms of environmental performance with an alternative scenario without battery use in order to determine the contribution of energy storage within the whole energy system (case study 3). Under the given modelling assumptions, the use of battery storage results in increased environmental impacts in the majority of the assessed categories, both in comparison with pumped hydroelectric storage (case study 1) and in comparison with the standard small-scale energy system without battery storage (case study 3). Regarding heat storage, the underlying case study shows a low relevance of environmental impacts within the energy system.
Synthesis of monofunctional platinum(iv) carboxylate precursors for use in Pt(iv)–peptide bioconjugates
Authors: Śmiłowicz Dariusz , Metzler-Nolte Nils
Published: October 2018

Herein we present platinum(iv) bioconjugates with polyarginine peptides as prospective prodrug delivery systems. A reliable method for the asymmetrical oxidation of Pt(ii) precursors is described, and the cytotoxicity of the resulting Pt(iv) complexes and their peptide bioconjugates is investigated.
Determination of the viscoelastic properties of a single cell cultured on a rigid support by force microscopy
Authors: Garcia Pablo D. , Garcia Ricardo
Published: October 2018

Understanding the relationship between the mechanical properties of living cells and physiology is a central issue in mechanobiology.
Direct defluorinative amidation–hydrolysis reaction of gem-difluoroalkenes with N,N-dimethylformamide, and primary and secondary amines
Authors: Wang Biyun , Zhao Xianghu , Liu Qingyun , Cao Song
Published: October 2018

A novel and efficient method for the synthesis of arylacetamides by the reactions of gem-difluoroalkenes with N,N-dialkylformamides, and primary and secondary amines with the assistance of KOtBu and water was developed.
High-temperature magnetic blocking and magneto-structural correlations in a series of dysprosium(iii) metallocenium single-molecule magnets
Authors: Randall McClain K. , Gould Colin A. , Chakarawet Khetpakorn , Teat Simon J. , Groshens Thomas J. , Long Jeffrey R. , Harvey Benjamin G.
Published: October 2018

Subtle changes in ligand substitution result in substantial changes in molecular structure and magnetic properties in a series of dysprosium(iii) metallocenium salts.
Controlled defects to link wetting properties to surface heterogeneity
Authors: Lhermerout Romain , Davitt Kristina
Published: October 2018

Contact angle hysteresis and dynamics are measured on surfaces covered with nano-sized defects of known size, shape and density.
Two-dimensional few-layer group-III metal monochalcogenides as effective photocatalysts for overall water splitting in the visible range
Authors: Cui Yu , Peng Lei , Sun Liping , Qian Qi , Huang Yucheng
Published: October 2018

Using first-principles calculations, the photocatalytic performances of two dimensional (2D) few-layer group-III metal monochalcogenides MXs (M = Ga, In; X= S, Se) towards overall water splitting reaction are systematically investigated.
Standing wave spectrometer with semi-transparent organic detector
Authors: Jovanov Vladislav , Donfack Patrice , Müller Arne , Materny Arnulf , Knipp Dietmar , Wagner Veit
Published: October 2018

Optical properties of organic materials such as polymer–fullerene mixtures enable realization of semi-transparent photodetectors with superior design and features for standing wave spectrometer applications.
Biocompatibility studies on cerium oxide nanoparticles – combined study for local effects, systemic toxicity and genotoxicity via implantation route
Authors: Kalyanaraman V. , Naveen Sangeetha Vasudevaraj , Mohana N. , Balaje R. M. , Navaneethakrishnan K. R. , Brabu B. , Murugan S. S. , Kumaravel T. S.
Published: October 2018

Cerium oxide nanoparticles showed negligible local effects, low systemic toxicity and genotoxicity via implantation route.
Power‐efficient error‐resilient network‐on‐chip router using selective error correction code scheme
Authors: Li C.‐L. , Kim Y.‐W. , Lee Y.S. , Han T.H.
Published: October 2018

In this Letter, a new error‐resilient router design for network‐on‐chips (NoCs) is proposed to effectively address various transient errors considering power efficiency and implementation complexity. To cope with the most probable error conditions, a selective error correction code (ECC) is embraced in router design, which combines an optimised double‐bit error‐correcting Bose–Chaudhuri–Hocquenghem (BCH) code and a single‐bit error‐correcting Hamming code. To reduce the inherent delay overhead of the BCH code, the parallel BCH coding scheme is designed and implemented into the proposed router. Furthermore, the associated ECC controller is designed for switching into an appropriate ECC mode without an additional delay at runtime. The proposed router is synthesised using 28 nm CMOS technology. Experimental results with a variety of common error conditions show that the proposed method improves the average latency by up to 13.8% and achieves up to 11.5% power reduction with the area increase of 5.7%, when compared to the conventional error correction scheme.
Active distribution network load flow analysis through non‐repetitive FBS iterations with integrated DG and transformer modelling
Authors: Verma Rishabh , Sarkar Vaskar
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study is to identify and eliminate unnecessary iteration loops in the load flow analysis of an active distribution network so as to improve its overall computational efficiency. The number of iteration loops is minimised through the integrated modelling of a distributed generator (DG) and the associated coupling transformer. The DG bus is not preserved in the load flow calculation and the aforementioned DG‐transformer assembly is represented in the form of a voltage‐dependent negative load at the point of connection to the main distribution network. Thus, the iteration stage that is involved in indirectly preserving the DG in the form of a voltage source or negative constant power load can be eliminated. This, in turn, eliminates the need for multiple rounds of forward–backward sweeps (FBS) iterations to determine the bus voltages. The power characteristics of the DG‐transformer assembly are thoroughly investigated through a carefully performed case study so as to assess the general convergence performance of the proposed load flow algorithm. Furthermore, extensive comparative studies are carried out to verify the computational efficiency attained via the proposed DG modelling in the load flow analysis of an active distribution network.
Survey of connected automated vehicle perception mode: from autonomy to interaction
Authors: Wei ShangGuan , Yu Du , Lin Guo Chai , Dan Liu , Wei Shu Wang
Published: October 2018

For enhancing the intelligence of urban traffic, connected automated vehicle (CAV) is recognised as the leading technology in the near future. With on‐board sensors and communication devices, status of the vehicles can be obtained to better coordinate the traffic. However, the limited environmental perception range cannot lead to the best efficiency of the global urban traffic. In this study, a three‐step evolution strategy of the CAV perception mode is proposed, from autonomous perception to interactive perception to networked perception. Key technologies in these three steps are studied. In autonomous perception, vehicle positioning and dynamic target tracking approaches are proposed. In interactive perception, a reliable multi‐mode information exchange mechanism is studied. Finally, a new traffic big data storage and advanced analytics solution in networked perception is introduced. Related experiments about the above key issues are designed, implemented, and verified based on the hardware platform, open source dataset, and cloud platform, respectively. The results show that the positioning distance root mean square achieves 3.9 m, object tracking speed reaches 30fps, and communication average packet loss rate is 2%. As can be seen from testing and simulation results, our proposed approaches can meet technical requirements and support environment perception mode evolution of CAV.
Magnetic properties of a long-lived sunspot
Authors: Schmassmann M. , Schlichenmaier R. , Bello González N.
Published: October 2018

Context. In a recent statistical study of sunspots in 79 active regions, the vertical magnetic field component Bver averaged along the umbral boundary is found to be independent of sunspot size. The authors of that study conclude that the absolute value of Bver at the umbral boundary is the same for all spots.

Aims. We investigate the temporal evolution of Bver averaged along the umbral boundary of one long-lived sunspot during its stable phase.

Methods. We analysed data from the HMI instrument on-board SDO. Contours of continuum intensity at Ic = 0.5Iqs, whereby Iqs refers to the average over the quiet sun areas, are used to extract the magnetic field along the umbral boundary. Projection effects due to different formation heights of the Fe I 617.3 nm line and continuum are taken into account. To avoid limb artefacts, the spot is only analysed for heliocentric angles smaller than 60°.

Results. During the first disc passage, NOAA AR 11591, Bver remains constant at 1693 G with a root-mean-square deviation of 15 G, whereas the magnetic field strength varies substantially (mean 2171 G, rms of 48 G) and shows a long term variation. Compensating for formation height has little influence on the mean value along each contour, but reduces the variations along the contour when away from disc centre, yielding a better match between the contours of Bver = 1693 G and Ic = 0.5Iqs.

Conclusions. During the disc passage of a stable sunspot, its umbral boundary can equivalently be defined by using the continuum intensity Ic or the vertical magnetic field component Bver. Contours of fixed magnetic field strength fail to outline the umbral boundary.
Principal component analysis of sunspot cycle shape
Authors: Takalo Jouni , Mursula Kalevi
Published: October 2018

Aims. We study the shape of sunspot cycles using the Wolf sunspot numbers and group sunspot numbers of solar cycles 1–23. We determine the most typical “model” cycles and the most asymmetric cycles, and test the validity of the two Waldmeier rules: the anti-correlation between cycle height and the length of its ascending phase (rule 1), and between cycle height and the length of the preceding cycle (rule 2).

Methods. We applied the principal component analysis to sunspot cycles and studied the first two components, which describe the average cycle shape and cycle asymmetry, respectively. We also calculated their autocorrelation in order to study their recurrence properties.

Results. The best model cycles for Wolf numbers are SC12, SC14, and SC16, the successive even cycles from a long period of rather low overall solar activity. We find that the model cycles in eight different analyses using both sunspot series are almost exclusively even cycles. Correspondingly, the most asymmetric cycles are odd cycles. We find that both Waldmeier rules are valid for the whole Wolf number series of 23 cycles. Waldmeier rule 2 is also valid for group number series although its significance is weaker. Waldmeier rule 1 is not significant for the original group number series, but becomes significant for the proxy series. For separate centuries, Waldmeier rules are not always valid for Wolf numbers and very rarely for group numbers.

Conclusions. The preference of even cycles as model cycles supports the Gnevyshev-Ohl rule and the related 22-year alternation of cycle amplitudes and intensities, with even cycles on average being 10–15% lower than odd cycles. Our results also offer a new interpretation for the Gnevyshev gap. In addition to being a local depression of solar activity, the Gnevyshev gap is a separatrix that divides cycles into two parts whose relative intensities determine the cycle asymmetry. The Gnevyshev gap is the zero value time of PC2, located approximately 33–42% into the cycle after its start.
First high-resolution look at the quiet Sun with ALMA at 3mm
Authors: Nindos A. , Alissandrakis C. E. , Bastian T. S. , Patsourakos S. , De Pontieu B. , Warren H. , Ayres T. , Hudson H. S. , Shimizu T. , Vial J.-C. , Wedemeyer S. , Yurchyshyn V.
Published: October 2018

We present an overview of high-resolution quiet Sun
observations, from disk center to the limb, obtained with the Atacama Large millimeter and sub-millimeter Array (ALMA) at 3 mm. Seven quiet-Sun regions were observed at a resolution of up to 2.5″ by 4.5″. We produced both average and snapshot images by self-calibrating the ALMA visibilities and combining the interferometric images with full-disk solar images. The images show well the chromospheric network, which, based on the unique segregation method we used, is brighter than the average over the fields of view of the observed regions by ∼305 K while the intranetwork is less bright by ∼280 K, with a slight decrease of the network/intranetwork contrast toward the limb. At 3 mm the network is very similar to the 1600 Å images, with somewhat larger size. We detect, for the first time, spicular structures, rising up to 15″ above the limb with a width down to the image resolution and brightness temperature of ∼1800 K above the local background. No trace of spicules, either in emission or absorption, is found on the disk. Our results highlight the potential of ALMA for the study of the quiet chromosphere.
Large-sized theropod Spinosaurus: an important component of the carnivorous dinosaur fauna in southern continents during the Cretaceous
Authors: Candeiro Carlos Roberto A. , Gil Lívia Motta , de Castro Pedro Ernesto Pontes
Published: October 2018

The Early Cretaceous of North Africa has Spinosaurinae dinosaur remains such as Spinosaurus recorded in Algeria (Guir Basin, Kem Kem beds), Egypt (Bahariya Formation), Morocco (Kem Kem beds), and Tunisia (Ain El Guettar Formation). Until now, three possible Spinosaurus species were identified: Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, Spinosaurus sp. and Spinosaurus “B”. The occurrence of this genus in the Albian-Cenomanian rocks of Africa suggests that the temporal and geographic distribution of these spinosaurines is the largest one among all genera and species of megapredators from the middle Cretaceous of Africa. The fossil record of Spinosaurus from the Albian to the Cenomanian shows a 20 million year persistence of this genus in Gondwanan ecosystems.
Numerical Investigation of Acoustics Performance of Low- Pressure Ducted Axial Fan by Using Different Turbulence Models
Authors: Bacak Aykut , Pinarbasi Ali
Published: October 2018

In this article, capacity and acoustics parameters of low pressure ducted axial fan is numerically investigated with Realizable k-epsilon, k-w SST and DES turbulence models by using computational fluid dynamics software. One slice of six bladed axial fan operating at 3000 RPM is simulated periodically as low pressure ducted axial ventilation fan. Simulations are run for operating point on the performance curve for each turbulence models. Investigation of acoustics parameters are obtained Ffowcs-Williams Hawkings acoustic model to calculate sound pressure levels for related frequencies. Numerical results are compared with the experimental results provided from blade manufacturer company.
Risk Analysis of Ports in Maritime Industry in Turkey using FMEA Based Intuitionistic Fuzzy TOPSIS Approach
Authors: Şenel Mine , Şenel Bilgin , Havle Celal Alpay
Published: October 2018

Today, international trade is extremely important for countries' economies. It is possible to show the ship's transport as one of the most important execution channels of this trade. International commercial maritime transport subject to many rules and regulations carries many risks in processes such as loading, handling and unloading. Commercial ports are the places where these risks are seen intensely. From this point, many risk components in terms of the process in the port, one of the international commercial port in Turkey, based on a risk analysis is tried to be evaluated in this study. Especially, loading and unloading processes are focused with the directions of industrial experts. The main dimensions of the risks in the port are determined via expert opinions, and the sub-criteria of these dimensions are revealed. In this way, a generic model is proposed based on failure mode and effect analysis and the model is digitized using intuitionistic fuzzy TOPSIS. Interpretations are made in the direction of the obtained analysis results.
Some New Characterizations Of Parallel Translation Surface According To Bishop Frame With Timelike M1In Minkowski 3-Space
Authors: Altay Suroǧlu Gülden
Published: October 2018

In this paper we consider parallel translation surfaces, which are generated by spacelike curves, according to Bishop frame with timelike M1in Minkowski 3- space. Then, we obtain some characterizations of these surface.
Investigation of Earthquake Behaviour of Construction System and Materials in Traditional Turkish Architecture
Authors: Yardımlı Seyhan , Dal Murat , Mıhlayanlar Esma
Published: October 2018

In this study, it is aimed to present a point of view regarding the behaviour of construction systems implemented in traditional Turkish architecture against earthquakes. In the scope of the study, examples of civil architecture were considered and their structures were evaluated as building elements such as foundation, wall and flooring. Traditional Turkish architecture construction systems can be evaluated in two parts. One of them is the wooden carcass system and the other is the unreinforced masonry system. In the wooden carcass system, the carrier is the load bearing elements used in horizontal and vertical directions. Intermediate parts (strut, diagonal etc.) are placed between these elements to form triangles. The triangles (strut, diagonal) used in the wooden skeleton system comprise highly resistant forms against earthquakes. Moreover, due to the internal structure and physical properties of the wood, which is the skeleton material, the flexibility that it maintains can meet the lateral loads of earthquakes. The second construction system which is the system addressed in this application, is the unreinforced masonry system. In this system, the loadbearing system itself is the walls, which are not resistant to lateral loads. In order to provide this flexibility beams (hatıllar) are installed at certain intervals. After the wall is built to a certain height, a different material is laid allowing a plane of movement on the wall. Thus, when the wall is exposed to a lateral load, it escapes from the planes where the beams (hatıllar) are present, and is protected against large damages by absorbing the earthquake load. In order to establish that the foundation of the structure can withstand earthquakes by movement, wood is placed at the lower part of the foundation above a layer of sand ensuring lateral movement and flexibility of the building. In traditional buildings the slabs are connected to the building walls with beams (hatıllar). Through the agency of the beams (hatıllar) formed at the connection points, the slabs can act as a mass so that they can meet the earthquake load. Allowing the structure to move makes it resistant to earthquakes, seismic isolators are used for this purpose by absorbing the earthquake load and moving the foundation of the structure.
Differentiation of Using Flattening Filter Free Energy in Vmat Plans for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Çelen Yonca Yahşi , Evcin Atilla
Published: October 2018

It is aimed to compare the values of conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), monitor unit (MU) of volumetrically adjusted arthritis therapy (VMAT) plans using 10 prostate cancer patients with flattened filter (FF) and without flattening filter (FFF). In the study, treatment plans were prepared using 6 FF and 6 FFF in the Eclipse (ver.13.6) treatment planning system with Varian Trilogy Linear Accelerator. When planning was completed, CI averaged 0.87, HI averaged 0.44 and MU values were found to be 591 ± 26.8, 650 ± 33.06, respectively. When the PTV coverage, CI, HI and MU comparisons were made as a result of planning, there was no significant difference when comparing VMAT plans in FFF and FF energies. When we compare the MU values, the MU increase is seen when the straightening filter is removed. In both energy modes, good homogeneity in PTV was achieved with conventional francitation and close dose rates. No significant advantages and disadvantages of the unfiltered energy mode were observed in the assessment of plan quality in terms of CI, HI.
GNSS availability monitoring method for railway transport
Authors: Demyanov Vladislav , Shurygin Boris , Imarova Olga
Published: October 2018

The article studies relevant problem of real time monitoring - the availability of the required GNSS navigation characteristics, which is required for railway rolling stock traffic automation. As prototypes, the main approaches to monitoring the availability of the required navigation characteristics of WAAS EGNOS wide area differential systems users were analyzed. It was shown that the use of the total probability of violation of the required navigation characteristics without decomposition of an equivalent range error is an appropriate approach for building the algorithm for monitoring the availability of navigation support for transport applications. The method of monitoring the availability of required navigation characteristics was proposed for automated railway traffic control tasks.
Linear structure taxonomy with the account of environmental polystructures impact
Authors: Bobrova Tatyana , Vorobyev Valeriy
Published: October 2018

One of the specific features of transportation facilities design is the necessity to account changing environmental conditions in considerable distances along the track. The purpose of the study is theoretical substantiation of structural decomposition of linear structures based on the degree of uniformity of environmental factors effect on the geotechnical system of an object. A new approach to linear road zoning is suggested on the basis of comprehensive assessment of multidimensional spatial data on the environment. Theory of pattern recognition is used as a classification tool. Linear structure taxonomy, as a part of this theory, is based on hierarchical agglomerative clustering algorithms which provide consequential merge of operating territorial units into uniform linear complexes. Application of taxonomy methods is considered for automated tasks solving on various levels of roads information modeling: when designing structures, organizing construction and operating a facility.
Estimation of the life cycle cost of the upper railway track structure
Authors: Karpuschenko Nikolai , Trukhanov Pavel
Published: October 2018

The length of tracks with excess tonnage was 14% in the territory of the Russian Federation in 2007, and it reached 20% by 2017. Removal of these restrictions is possible due to modernization of the upper railway track structure (URTS) with increasing its durability and lowering of the life cycle cost (LCC). The purpose of the study is building the LCC estimation model. This model includes the structure of the URTS, the categories and elements of the costs for its maintenance, identification (estimation) of costs, algorithms for their calculation. The average annual LCC of 1 km of the URTS includes the cost of reconstruction, maintenance, intermediate repairs, elimination of consequences of road failures and disposal in the form of the return value of old URS elements. The developed methodology was tested on the actual data of one of the sections of the West Siberian Infrastructure Directorate. The analysis of the obtained data made it possible to conclude that the adopted model of calculating the LCC of URTS adequately displays the categories and elements of the costs for maintenance of the railway track, their specific share in the LCC.