bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Variation of Tectonic Tremor Activity Before the Tohoku‐Oki Earthquake
Authors: Katakami Satoshi , Ito Yoshihiro , Ohta Kazuaki , Hino Ryota , Suzuki Syuichi , Shinohara Masanao
Published: October 2018

A slow slip event (SSE) and tectonic tremors occurred approximately 1.5 month prior to the occurrence of the 2011 Tohoku‐Oki earthquake near the Japan Trench. Although we cannot completely rule out other sources of noise near the observation site, slow earthquakes would demonstrate the nucleation of a fast slip event from prior slow earthquake activity. Here we report on tectonic tremor activity detected from short‐period ocean‐bottom seismometer (OBS) data with a modified frequency scanning method that allows robust tectonic tremor detection by incorporating information from multiple frequency passbands in order to suppress false detections. We have identified at least five tectonic tremor sequences on the OBS records from the end of January 2011 to just before the occurrence of the Tohoku‐Oki earthquake in March 2011. To reveal the spatial distributions of tectonic tremors before the Tohoku‐Oki earthquake, we then calculated tremor energy, with corrected site amplification, from the identified tectonic tremor time window at each OBS that detected tremors. Possible sources of tremors were distributed in trenchward side of the SSE fault prior to the main shock. These tremors could be modulated by SSE to take into account consistent timing between tremor and SSE term, and consistency of spatial locations between estimated tremor sources and SSE faults. This spatiotemporal pattern in tectonic tremor activity demonstrates a significant separation of occurrence sources between tectonic tremors and regular earthquakes.
A Numerical Study of Interannual Variability in the North Icelandic Irminger Current
Authors: Zhao Jian , Yang Jiayan , Semper Stefanie , Pickart Robert S. , Våge Kjetil , Valdimarsson Hedinn , Jónsson Steingrímur
Published: October 2018

The North Icelandic Irminger Current (NIIC) is an important component of the Atlantic Water (AW) inflow to the Nordic Seas. In this study, both observations and a high‐resolution (1/12°) numerical model are used to investigate the seasonal to interannual variability of the NIIC and its forcing mechanisms. The model‐simulated velocity and hydrographic fields compare well with the available observations. The water mass over the entire north Icelandic shelf exhibits strong seasonal variations in both temperature and salinity, and such variations are closely tied to the AW seasonality in the NIIC. In addition to seasonal variability, there is considerable variation on interannual time scales, including a prominent event in 2003 when the AW volume transport increased by about 0.5 Sv. To identify and examine key forcing mechanisms for this event, we analyzed outputs from two additional numerical experiments: using only the seasonal climatology for buoyancy flux (the momentum case) and using only the seasonal climatology for wind stress (the buoyancy case). It is found that changes in the wind stress are predominantly responsible for the interannual variations in the AW volume transport, AW fraction in the NIIC water, and salinity. Temperature changes on the shelf, however, are equally attributable to the buoyancy flux and wind forcing. Correlational analyses indicate that the AW volume transport is most sensitive to the wind stress southwest of Iceland.
Structure of the Deep Spillway in the Western Part of the Romanche Fracture Zone
Authors: Tarakanov Roman Y. , Morozov Eugene G. , van Haren Hans , Makarenko Nikolay I. , Demidova Tatiana A.
Published: October 2018

Structure of the deep spillway was studied on the basis of conductivity‐temperature‐depth, lowered acoustic Doppler current profiler, and mooring measurements in 2011–2014 in the Romanche fracture zone (22°27′–22°32′W). The spillway exists quasi‐permanently in the regime of hydraulic control overflow and consists of two flows in the layer θ < 1.20 °C (deeper than 4,150 m). The first flow enters the fracture from the south through a gap in the Southern Wall. The second flow is directed to the east along the narrow valley of the fracture. The sill depths of these passages are 4,570 and 4,430 m, respectively. The depths over the surrounding ridges are shallower than 4,100 m. Both flows descend to the local depression of the fracture with 5,000‐m depth. Bottom potential temperatures over both sills were 0.51 °C, and the measured velocities were 20–40 cm/s. When the flows descend down the slope, they accelerate in supercritical regime. Maximal measured velocities were up to 65 cm/s. Analysis of the 189‐day time series of velocities on the mooring deployed in the flow descending from the gap showed a very high level of fluctuation energy: 10 times greater than the energy of the barotropic tide at this point. The only energy source of these fluctuations is the available potential energy of the deep thermocline in the West Atlantic transforming to the kinetic energy of the deep spillway. The total transport of the bottom water below θ = 1.2 °C based on the lowered acoustic Doppler current profiler measurements is estimated at 0.29–0.35 Sv, which agrees with the predicted values.
MSK1 functions as a transcriptional coactivator of p53 in the regulation of p21 gene expression
Authors: Ahn Jihye , Lee Jin Gyeong , Chin Chuevin , In Suna , Yang Aerin , Park Hee-Sung , Kim Jaehoon , Park Jeong Hyeon
Published: October 2018

Mitogen- and stress-activated kinase 1 (MSK1) is a chromatin kinase that facilitates activator-dependent transcription by altering chromatin structure through histone H3 phosphorylation. The kinase activity of MSK1 is activated by intramolecular autophosphorylation, which is initially triggered by the activation of upstream mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), such as p38 and ERK1/2. MSK1 has been implicated in the expression of p21, a p53 target gene; however, the precise connection between MSK1 and p53 has not been clearly elucidated. Here, using in vitro and cell-based transcription assays, we show that MSK1 functions as a transcriptional coactivator of p53 in p21 expression, an action associated with MAPK-dependent phosphorylation of MSK1 and elevated kinase activity. Of special significance, we show that MSK1 directly interacts with p53 and is recruited to the p21 promoter, where it phosphorylates histone H3 in a p53-dependent manner. In addition, phosphomimetic mutant analysis demonstrated that negative charges in the hydrophobic motif are critical for serine 212 phosphorylation in the N-terminal kinase domain, which renders MSK1 competent for histone kinase activity. These studies suggest that MSK1 acts through a direct interaction with p53 to function as a transcriptional coactivator and that MSK1 activation by upstream MAPK signaling is important for efficient p21 gene expression.
Effects of tumor necrosis factor-α polymorphism on the brain structural changes of the patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Zhou Rubai , Wang Fan , Zhao Guoqing , Xia Weiping , Peng Daihui , Mao Ruizhi , Xu Jingjing , Wang Zuowei , Hong Wu , Zhang Chen , Wang Yong , Su Yousong , Huang Jia , Yang Tao , Wang Jijun , Chen Jun , Palaniyappan Lena , Fang Yiru
Published: October 2018

Single Nucleotide Polymorphic (SNP) variations of proinflammatory cytokines such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) have been reported to be closely associated with the major depressive disorder (MDD). However, it is unclear if proinflammatory genetic burden adversely affects the regional gray matter volume in patients with MDD. The aim of this study was to test whether rs1799724, an SNP of TNF-α, contributes to the neuroanatomical changes in MDD. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 144 MDD patients and 111 healthy controls (HC) well matched for age, sex and education were recruited from Shanghai Mental Health Center. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) followed by graph theory based structural covariance analysis was applied to locate diagnosis x genotype interactions. Irrespective of diagnosis, individuals with the high-risk genotype (T-carriers) had reduced volume in left angular gyrus (main effect of genotype). Diagnosis x genotype interaction was exclusively localized to the visual cortex (right superior occipital gyrus). The same region also showed reduced volume in patients with MDD than HC (main effect of diagnosis), with this effect being most pronounced in patients carrying the high-risk genotype. However, neither global nor regional network of structural covariance was found to have group difference. In conclusion, a genetic variation which can increase TNF-α expression selectively affects the anatomy of the visual cortex among the depressed subjects, with no effect on the topographical organization of multiple cortical regions. This supports the notion that anatomical changes in depression are in part influenced by the genetic determinants of inflammatory activity.
GSK3β: a plausible mechanism of cognitive and hippocampal changes induced by erythropoietin treatment in mood disorders?
Authors: Inkster Becky , Zai Gwyneth , Lewis Gemma , Miskowiak Kamilla W.
Published: October 2018

Mood disorders are associated with significant psychosocial and occupational disability. It is estimated that major depressive disorder (MDD) will become the second leading cause of disability worldwide by 2020. Existing pharmacological and psychological treatments are limited for targeting cognitive dysfunctions in mood disorders. However, growing evidence from human and animal studies has shown that treatment with erythropoietin (EPO) can improve cognitive function. A recent study involving EPO-treated patients with mood disorders showed that the neural basis for their cognitive improvements appeared to involve an increase in hippocampal volume. Molecular mechanisms underlying hippocampal changes have been proposed, including the activation of anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, pro-survival and anti-inflammatory signalling pathways. The aim of this review is to describe the potential importance of glycogen synthase kinase 3-beta (GSK3β) as a multi-potent molecular mechanism of EPO-induced hippocampal volume change in mood disorder patients. We first examine published associations between EPO administration, mood disorders, cognition and hippocampal volume. We then highlight evidence suggesting that GSK3β influences hippocampal volume in MDD patients, and how this could assist with targeting more precise treatments particularly for cognitive deficits in patients with mood disorders. We conclude by suggesting how this developing area of research can be further advanced, such as using pharmacogenetic studies of EPO treatment in patients with mood disorders.
Integrative analysis of transcriptomics and clinical data uncovers the tumor-suppressive activity of MITF in prostate cancer
Authors: Valcarcel-Jimenez Lorea , Macchia Alice , Martín-Martín Natalia , Cortazar Ana Rosa , Schaub-Clerigué Ariane , Pujana-Vaquerizo Mikel , Fernández-Ruiz Sonia , Lacasa-Viscasillas Isabel , Santos-Martin Aida , Loizaga-Iriarte Ana , Unda-Urzaiz Miguel , Hermanova Ivana , Astobiza Ianire , Graupera Mariona , Starkova Julia , Sutherland James , Barrio Rosa , Aransay Ana M. , Carracedo Arkaitz , Torrano Verónica
Published: October 2018

The dysregulation of gene expression is an enabling hallmark of cancer. Computational analysis of transcriptomics data from human cancer specimens, complemented with exhaustive clinical annotation, provides an opportunity to identify core regulators of the tumorigenic process. Here we exploit well-annotated clinical datasets of prostate cancer for the discovery of transcriptional regulators relevant to prostate cancer. Following this rationale, we identify Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) as a prostate tumor suppressor among a subset of transcription factors. Importantly, we further interrogate transcriptomics and clinical data to refine MITF perturbation-based empirical assays and unveil Crystallin Alpha B (CRYAB) as an unprecedented direct target of the transcription factor that is, at least in part, responsible for its tumor-suppressive activity in prostate cancer. This evidence was supported by the enhanced prognostic potential of a signature based on the concomitant alteration of MITF and CRYAB in prostate cancer patients. In sum, our study provides proof-of-concept evidence of the potential of the bioinformatics screen of publicly available cancer patient databases as discovery platforms, and demonstrates that the MITF-CRYAB axis controls prostate cancer biology.
The IICR and the non-stationary structured coalescent: towards demographic inference with arbitrary changes in population structure
Authors: Rodríguez Willy , Mazet Olivier , Grusea Simona , Arredondo Armando , Corujo Josué M. , Boitard Simon , Chikhi Lounès
Published: October 2018

In the last years, a wide range of methods allowing to reconstruct past population size changes from genome-wide data have been developed. At the same time, there has been an increasing recognition that population structure can generate genetic data similar to those produced under models of population size change. Recently, Mazet et al. (Heredity 116:362–371, 2016) showed that, for any model of population structure, it is always possible to find a panmictic model with a particular function of population size changes, having exactly the same distribution ofT2(the coalescence time for a sample of size two) as that of the structured model. They called this function IICR (Inverse Instantaneous Coalescence Rate) and showed that it does not necessarily correspond to population size changes under non-panmictic models. Besides, most of the methods used to analyse data under models of population structure tend to arbitrarily fix that structure and to minimise or neglect population size changes. Here, we extend the seminal work of Herbots (PhD thesis, University of London, 1994) on the structured coalescent and propose a new framework, the Non-Stationary Structured Coalescent (NSSC) that incorporates demographic events (changes in gene flow and/or deme sizes) to models of nearly any complexity. We show how to compute the IICR under a wide family of stationary and non-stationary models. As an example we address the question of human and Neanderthal evolution and discuss how the NSSC framework allows to interpret genomic data under this new perspective.
Lin−CCR2+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells overcome resistance to PD-1 blockade
Authors: Flores Catherine T. , Wildes Tyler J. , Drake Jeffrey A. , Moore Ginger L. , Dean Bayli DiVita , Abraham Rebecca S. , Mitchell Duane A.
Published: October 2018

Immune checkpoint blockade using anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibodies has shown considerable promise in the treatment of solid tumors, but brain tumors remain notoriously refractory to treatment. In CNS malignancies that are completely resistant to PD-1 blockade, we found that bone marrow-derived, lineage-negative hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSCs) that express C–C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2+) reverses treatment resistance and sensitizes mice to curative immunotherapy. HSC transfer with PD-1 blockade increases T-cell frequency and activation within tumors in preclinical models of glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. CCR2+HSCs preferentially migrate to intracranial brain tumors and differentiate into antigen-presenting cells within the tumor microenvironment and cross-present tumor-derived antigens to CD8+ T cells. HSC transfer also rescues tumor resistance to adoptive cellular therapy in medulloblastoma and glioblastoma. Our studies demonstrate a novel role for CCR2+HSCs in overcoming brain tumor resistance to PD-1 checkpoint blockade and adoptive cellular therapy in multiple invasive brain tumor models.
DRUG-seq for miniaturized high-throughput transcriptome profiling in drug discovery
Authors: Ye Chaoyang , Ho Daniel J. , Neri Marilisa , Yang Chian , Kulkarni Tripti , Randhawa Ranjit , Henault Martin , Mostacci Nadezda , Farmer Pierre , Renner Steffen , Ihry Robert , Mansur Leandra , Keller Caroline Gubser , McAllister Gregory , Hild Marc , Jenkins Jeremy , Kaykas Ajamete
Published: October 2018

Here we report Digital RNA with pertUrbation of Genes (DRUG-seq), a high-throughput platform for drug discovery. Pharmaceutical discovery relies on high-throughput screening, yet current platforms have limited readouts. RNA-seq is a powerful tool to investigate drug effects using transcriptome changes as a proxy, yet standard library construction is costly. DRUG-seq captures transcriptional changes detected in standard RNA-seq at 1/100th the cost. In proof-of-concept experiments profiling 433 compounds across 8 doses, transcription profiles generated from DRUG-seq successfully grouped compounds into functional clusters by mechanism of actions (MoAs) based on their intended targets. Perturbation differences reflected in transcriptome changes were detected for compounds engaging the same target, demonstrating the value of using DRUG-seq for understanding on and off-target activities. We demonstrate DRUG-seq captures common mechanisms, as well as differences between compound treatment and CRISPR on the same target. DRUG-seq provides a powerful tool for comprehensive transcriptome readout in a high-throughput screening environment.
Nanoscale metal-organic frameworks for mitochondria-targeted radiotherapy-radiodynamic therapy
Authors: Ni Kaiyuan , Lan Guangxu , Veroneau Samuel S. , Duan Xiaopin , Song Yang , Lin Wenbin
Published: October 2018

Selective delivery of photosensitizers to mitochondria of cancer cells can enhance the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT). Though cationic Ru-based photosensitizers accumulate in mitochondria, they require excitation with less penetrating short-wavelength photons, limiting their application in PDT. We recently discovered X-ray based cancer therapy by nanoscale metal–organic frameworks (nMOFs) via enhancing radiotherapy (RT) and enabling radiodynamic therapy (RDT). Herein we report Hf-DBB-Ru as a mitochondria-targeted nMOF for RT-RDT. Constructed from Ru-based photosensitizers, the cationic framework exhibits strong mitochondria-targeting property. Upon X-ray irradiation, Hf-DBB-Ru efficiently generates hydroxyl radicals from the Hf6 SBUs and singlet oxygen from the DBB-Ru photosensitizers to lead to RT-RDT effects. Mitochondria-targeted RT-RDT depolarizes the mitochondrial membrane to initiate apoptosis of cancer cells, leading to significant regression of colorectal tumors in mouse models. Our work establishes an effective strategy to selectively target mitochondria with cationic nMOFs for enhanced cancer therapy via RT-RDT with low doses of deeply penetrating X-rays.
Publisher Correction: Coherent modulation of the sea-level annual cycle in the United States by Atlantic Rossby waves
Authors: Calafat Francisco M. , Wahl Thomas , Lindsten Fredrik , Williams Joanne , Frajka-Williams Eleanor
Published: October 2018

The original version of this Article contained an error in the first sentence in the legend of Fig. 1, which incorrectly read ‘The first letter of ‘Hatteras’ should be capitalized, in both Figure 1a and 1b since Hatteras is a proper noun.’ The correct version removes this sentence. This has been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
The effect of the stress hormone cortisol on the metatranscriptome of the oral microbiome
Authors: Duran-Pinedo Ana E. , Solbiati Jose , Frias-Lopez Jorge
Published: October 2018

Imbalances of the microbiome, also referred to as microbial dysbiosis, could lead to a series of different diseases. One factor that has been shown to lead to dysbiosis of the microbiome is exposure to psychological stressors. Throughout evolution microorganisms of the human microbiome have developed systems for sensing host-associated signals such as hormones associated with those stressors, enabling them to recognize essential changes in their environment, thus changing their expression gene profile to fit the needs of the new environment. The most widely accepted theory explaining the ability of hormones to affect the outcome of an infection involves the suppression of the immune system. Commensal microbiota is involved in stressor-induced immunomodulation, but other biological effects are not yet known. Here we present the impact that cortisol had on the community-wide transcriptome of the oral community. We used a metatranscriptomic approach to obtain first insights into the metabolic changes induced by this stress hormone as well as which members of the oral microbiome respond to the presence of cortisol in the environment. Our findings show that the stress hormone cortisol directly induces shifts in the gene expression profiles of the oral microbiome that reproduce results found in the profiles of expression of periodontal disease and its progression.
Understanding the Stability of Salt-Inclusion Phases for Nuclear Waste-forms through Volume-based Thermodynamics
Authors: Moore Emily E. , Kocevski Vancho , Juillerat Christian A. , Morrison Gregory , Zhao Mingyang , Brinkman Kyle S. , Loye Hans-Conrad zur , Besmann Theodore M.
Published: October 2018

Formation enthalpies and Gibbs energies of actinide and rare-earth containing SIMs with silicate and germanate frameworks are reported. Volume-based thermodynamics (VBT) techniques complemented by density functional theory (DFT) were adapted and applied to these complex structures. VBT and DFT results were in closest agreement for the smaller framework silicate structure, whereas DFT in general predicts less negative enthalpies across all SIMs, regardless of framework type. Both methods predict the rare-earth silicates to be the most stable of the comparable structures calculated, with VBT results being in good agreement with the limited experimental values available from drop solution calorimetry.
Antagonistic and cooperative AGO2-PUM interactions in regulating mRNAs
Authors: Sternburg Erin L. , Estep Jason A. , Nguyen Daniel K. , Li Yahui , Karginov Fedor V.
Published: October 2018

Approximately 1500 RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) profoundly impact mammalian cellular function by controlling distinct sets of transcripts, often using sequence-specific binding to 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs) to regulate mRNA stability and translation. Aside from their individual effects, higher-order combinatorial interactions between RBPs on specific mRNAs have been proposed to underpin the regulatory network. To assess the extent of such co-regulatory control, we took a global experimental approach followed by targeted validation to examine interactions between two well-characterized and highly conserved RBPs, Argonaute2 (AGO2) and Pumilio (PUM1 and PUM2). Transcriptome-wide changes in AGO2-mRNA binding upon PUM knockdown were quantified by CLIP-seq, and the presence of PUM binding on the same 3′UTR corresponded with cooperative and antagonistic effects on AGO2 occupancy. In addition, PUM binding sites that overlap with AGO2 showed differential, weakened binding profiles upon abrogation of AGO2 association, indicative of cooperative interactions. In luciferase reporter validation of candidate 3′UTR sites where AGO2 and PUM colocalized, three sites were identified to host antagonistic interactions, where PUM counteracts miRNA-guided repression. Interestingly, the binding sites for the two proteins are too far for potential antagonism due to steric hindrance, suggesting an alternate mechanism. Our data experimentally confirms the combinatorial regulatory model and indicates that the mostly repressive PUM proteins can change their behavior in a context-dependent manner. Overall, the approach underscores the importance of further elucidation of complex interactions between RBPs and their transcriptome-wide extent.
A comprehensive anatomical map of the peripheral octopaminergic/tyraminergic system of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Pauls Dennis , Blechschmidt Christine , Frantzmann Felix , el Jundi Basil , Selcho Mareike
Published: October 2018

The modulation of an animal’s behavior through external sensory stimuli, previous experience and its internal state is crucial to survive in a constantly changing environment. In most insects, octopamine (OA) and its precursor tyramine (TA) modulate a variety of physiological processes and behaviors by shifting the organism from a relaxed or dormant condition to a responsive, excited and alerted state. Even though OA/TA neurons of the central brain are described on single cell level inDrosophila melanogaster, the periphery was largely omitted from anatomical studies. Given that OA/TA is involved in behaviors like feeding, flying and locomotion, which highly depend on a variety of peripheral organs, it is necessary to study the peripheral connections of these neurons to get a complete picture of the OA/TA circuitry. We here describe the anatomy of this aminergic system in relation to peripheral tissues of the entire fly. OA/TA neurons arborize onto skeletal muscles all over the body and innervate reproductive organs, the heart, the corpora allata, and sensory organs in the antennae, legs, wings and halteres underlining their relevance in modulating complex behaviors.
Correlated bursts in temporal networks slow down spreading
Authors: Hiraoka Takayuki , Jo Hang-Hyun
Published: October 2018

Spreading dynamics has been considered to take place in temporal networks, where temporal interaction patterns between nodes show non-Poissonian bursty nature. The effects of inhomogeneous interevent times (IETs) on the spreading have been extensively studied in recent years, yet little is known about the effects of correlations between IETs on the spreading. In order to investigate those effects, we study two-step deterministic susceptible-infected (SI) and probabilistic SI dynamics when the interaction patterns are modeled by inhomogeneous and correlated IETs, i.e., correlated bursts. By analyzing the transmission time statistics in a single-link setup and by simulating the spreading in Bethe lattices and random graphs, we conclude that the positive correlation between IETs slows down the spreading. We also argue that the shortest transmission time from one infected node to its susceptible neighbors can successfully explain our numerical results.
Oral formulation of DPP-4 inhibitor plus Quercetin improves metabolic homeostasis in type 1 diabetic rats
Authors: Miranda Pedro Henrique de A. , Lacerda Kissyla Christine Duarte , Araújo Carolina Morais , Barichello José Mario , Lima Wanderson Geraldo , Costa Daniela Caldeira
Published: October 2018

This study aimed to investigate the potential of an oral formulation (QV formulation) containing Quercetin and a Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor (DPP-4 inhibitor), Vildagliptin, in improving metabolic homeostasis in type 1 diabetes model. Female albino Fischer rats were divided into four groups: untreated control animals (C), untreated diabetic animals (D), diabetic animals treated with QV formulation (DQV), and diabetic animals treated with insulin (DI). Diabetes was induced by injection of alloxan (135 mg kg body mass)−1 and confirmed by glycemic test. After the 30-day treatment period, biochemical parameters were analyzed in the pancreas, liver, and serum. Histopathological changes in pancreatic tissue were examined by Hematoxyline & Eosin staining and the insulin content in the islet measured by immunohistochemistry with anti-insulin antibody. The glycogen content in the hepatocytes was quantified by Periodic Schiff Acid staining. The QV formulation reduced the glycemia, preserved the pancreatic architecture, increased insulin levels, furthermore ameliorated lipid profile and to promote higher survival rate of animals. Together, our data suggest that the QV formulation treatment was able to normalize metabolic homeostasis in type 1 diabetic rats.
Fidelity of CMIP5 multi-model mean in assessing Indian monsoon simulations
Authors: Mishra Saroj K. , Sahany Sandeep , Salunke Popat , Kang In-Sik , Jain Shipra
Published: October 2018

Considering the wide use of the multi-model mean (MMM) on the seasonal time scale, this work examines its fidelity in simulating some important characteristics of the Indian summer monsoon using Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) simulations. It is noted that the MMM captures the observed spatial pattern and annual cycle of surface air temperature to a great extent, but there are large biases in magnitude, particularly over north India. For precipitation, only the broad-scale features are captured and extreme large biases, of magnitude equal or higher than the seasonal mean precipitation, exist in the MMM. The simulation of trends in seasonal mean temperatures and precipitation is even less satisfactory than the climatological means. Several precipitation features, for example, low-to-moderate intensity precipitation events, orography-related rain bands, extreme events, are noted to improve with increasing resolution of the models, whereas, no such improvement is noted for temperatures. It is also noted that the improvement in CMIP5 MMM is marginal if compared with the best performing model from the group of models considered for analysis. There are several models that show similar skill as MMM, and therefore could be alternatively used for future projections. Moreover, using such individual models for Indian monsoon projections will also help us to understand the underlying mechanisms and processes by conducting targeted numerical experiments, which would otherwise be highly limited by approaches like MMM. Therefore, targeted efforts to improve some of these better models are required to gain more confidence in future projections of Indian monsoon.
Recent advances in single-cell analysis by mass spectrometry
Authors: Yin Lei , Zhang Zhi , Liu Yingze , Gao Yin , Gu Jingkai
Published: October 2018

Cells are the most basic structural units that play vital roles in the functioning of living organisms.
Organosoluble tetravalent actinide di- and trifluorides
Authors: Gotthelf Garret , Stuber Matthew A. , Kornienko Anna Y. , Emge Thomas J. , Brennan John G.
Published: October 2018

Soluble molecular actinide(iv) fluorides can be prepared in high yield via redox or metathesis reactions of silver fluorides with actinide compounds containing ancillary iodide or fluorinated thiolate ligands.
Synthesis of symmetrical and unsymmetrical triarylpyrylium ions via an inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reaction
Authors: Fathimath Salfeena C. T. , Basavaraja Basavaraja , Ashitha K. T. , Kumar V. Praveen , Varughese Sunil , Suresh Cherumuttathu H. , Sasidhar B. S.
Published: October 2018

One-pot, scalable synthesis of symmetrical and unsymmetrical 2,4,6-triarylpyrylium ions via a highly regioselective inverse electron demand Diels–Alder (IEDDA) reaction.
Cu(i)/{Nb6O19} catalyzed N-acylation of arylacetic acids with amines under aerobic conditions
Authors: Li Pei-He , Wang Zheng , Fu Hui , Dai Qi-Pu , Hu Chang-Wen
Published: October 2018

Employing a simple copper(i)/{Nb6O19} catalyst system, the reaction reported herein offers a facile process to give functionalized α-ketoamides from readily available arylacetic acids under aerobic conditions.
Increased stability of nitroxide radicals in ionic liquids: more than a viscosity effect
Authors: Wylie Luke , Seeger Zoe L. , Hancock Amber N. , Izgorodina Ekaterina I.
Published: October 2018

Experimental EPR and quantum chemical analyses show that ionic liquid solvents can stabilise radical through intermolecular interactions.
Branching pattern effect and co-assembly with lipids of amphiphilic Janus dendrimersomes
Authors: Yang Yan-Ling , Sheng Yu-Jane , Tsao Heng-Kwong
Published: October 2018

The influence of the branching patterns on the membrane properties of Janus dendrimers in water has been investigated by dissipative particle dynamics simulations.
Stereoselective synthesis of E-3-(arylmethylidene)-5-(alkyl/aryl)-2(3H)-furanones by sequential hydroacyloxylation-Mizoroki–Heck reactions of iodoalkynes
Authors: Muthusamy Gopinathan , Pansare Sunil V.
Published: October 2018

Stereoselective hydroacyloxylation of iodoalkynes with β-aryl cinnamic acids and subsequent Mizoroki–Heck reaction provides an efficient route to substituted 2(3H)-furanones.
Copper-catalyzed synthesis of 2-acylbenzo[b]thiophenes from 3-(2-iodophenyl)-1-arylpropan-1-ones and potassium sulfide under aerobic conditions
Authors: Zheng Zhilei , Chen Liang , Qian Cheng , Zhu Xiaoming , Yang Yuzhong , Liu Jianbing , Yang Yuan , Liang Yun
Published: October 2018

A method was developed for the synthesis of 2-acylbenzo[b]thiophenes via a copper-catalyzed sulfuration of 3-(2-iodophenyl)-1-arylpropan-1-ones with K2S.
Regioselective [3 + 2]-annulation of hydrazonyl chlorides with 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds for assembling of polysubstituted pyrazoles
Authors: Liu Kun , Shang Xinye , Cheng Yuyu , Chang Xiaoyong , Li Pengfei , Li Wenjun
Published: October 2018

The facile approach to polysubstituted pyrazoles from hydrazonyl chlorides and 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds has been developed. Hydrazonyl chlorides reacted with N-phenyl-3-oxobutanamides smoothly to afford a series of polysubstituted pyrazoles in 67–98% yields via the [3 + 2]-cycloaddition.
Giant polymersomes from non-assisted film hydration of phosphate-based block copolymers
Authors: Rideau Emeline , Wurm Frederik R. , Landfester Katharina
Published: October 2018

Polybutadiene-block-poly(ethyl ethylene phosphate) can reproducibly self-assemble in large number into giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) by non-assisted film hydration, representing a stepping stone for better liposomes – substitutes towards the generation of artificial cells.
Co-assembly of sugar-based amphiphilic block polymers to achieve nanoparticles with tunable morphology, size, surface charge, and acid-responsive behavior
Authors: Lin Yen-Nan , Su Lu , Smolen Justin , Li Richen , Song Yue , Wang Hai , Dong Mei , Wooley Karen L.
Published: October 2018

Co-assembly of glucose-based polymers is demonstrated as a simple strategy to control nanoparticle morphology, size, surface charge, and acid-responsive properties.
Respirometric activities of unacclimatizedEnterobacter aerogenesand mixed culture bacteria in sequencing batch reactor systems in response to acrylamide and its biodegradation products
Authors: Madmanang Romsan , He Zhen , Sriwiriyarat Tongchai
Published: October 2018

Acute effects of acrylamide and its biodegradation products on microbes from SBR wastewater treatment systems were revealed by respirometric activities.
Operating envelope of Haber–Bosch process design for power-to-ammonia
Authors: Cheema Izzat Iqbal , Krewer Ulrike
Published: October 2018

The Haber–Bosch process is viable for power-to-ammonia, as it can be operated for a wide range of the operating envelope while maintaining the process variables' operational, hydrogen feed intake and ammonia production flexibilities.
Convenient and sensitive colorimetric detection of melamine in dairy products based on Cu(ii)-H2O2-3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine system
Authors: Han Xue , Qin Zhixin , Zhao Mengyao , Song Jiajia , Qu Fei , Qu Fengli , Kong Rong-Mei
Published: October 2018

Convenient and sensitive colorimetric detection of melamine in dairy products based on a Cu(ii)-H2O2-3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine system was reported.
A new family of urea-based low molecular-weight organogelators for environmental remediation: the influence of structure
Authors: Peveler William J. , Packman Hollie , Alexander Shirin , Chauhan Raamanand R. , Hayes Lilian M. , Macdonald Thomas J. , Cockcroft Jeremy K. , Rogers Sarah , Aarts Dirk G. A. L. , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P. , Bear Joseph C.
Published: October 2018

Six analogous low molecular weight organogelators are comprehensively characterised to investigate the role of small structural modifications on performance.
Pharmacological inhibition of autophagy by 3-MA attenuates hyperuricemic nephropathy
Authors: Bao Jinfang , Shi Yingfeng , Tao Min , Liu Na , Zhuang Shougang , Yuan Weijie
Published: October 2018

Autophagy has been identified as a cellular process of bulk degradation of cytoplasmic components and its persistent activation is critically involved in the renal damage induced by ureteral obstruction. However, the role and underlying mechanisms of autophagy in hyperuricemic nephropathy (HN) remain unknown. In the present study, we observed that inhibition of autophagy by 3-methyladenine (3-MA) abolished uric acid-induced differentiation of renal fibroblasts to myofibroblasts and activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and Wnt signaling pathways in cultured renal interstitial fibroblasts. Treatment with 3-MA also abrogated the development of HN in vivo as evidenced by improving renal function, preserving renal tissue architecture, reducing the number of autophagic vacuoles, and decreasing microalbuminuria. Moreover, 3-MA was effective in attenuating renal deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and reducing renal epithelial cells arrested at the G2/M phase of cell cycle. Injury to the kidney resulted in increased expression of TGF-β1 and TGFβ receptor I, phosphorylation of Smad3 and TGF-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), and activation of multiple cell signaling pathways associated with renal fibrogenesis, including Wnt, Notch, EGFR, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). 3-MA treatment remarkably inhibited all these responses. In addition, 3-MA effectively suppressed infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes as well as release of multiple profibrogenic cytokines/chemokines in the injured kidney. Collectively, these findings indicate that hyperuricemia-induced autophagy is critically involved in the activation of renal fibroblasts and development of renal fibrosis and suggest that inhibition of autophagy may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for HN.
Modelling and comparison for low‐voltage broadband power line noise using LS‐SVM and wavelet neural networks
Authors: Zhao Xiongwen , Zhang Hui , Li Liang , Lu Wenbing , Ding Yi , Liu Junyu
Published: October 2018

This study is to construct the autoregressive models for the low‐voltage broadband power line communication (PLC) channel noise by two machine learning algorithms, namely the least square support vector machine (LS‐SVM) and wavelet neural networks. The main work is to compare the two classical machine learning algorithms and also compare them with the traditional Markovian–Gaussian method. To verify their availability and ability to adapt to the time‐variant PLC channels, noise measurements for low‐voltage PLC channels in indoor and outdoor scenarios are carried out. The accuracy and efficiency of the two models are studied and compared based on a large amount of measurement data. The results show that both of the noise models can simulate and adapt to the time‐variant low‐voltage broadband PLC channels very well. The LS‐SVM model is found to have shorter simulation time and higher accuracy. Moreover, the proposed noise models are also compared with the traditional Markovian–Gaussian model. The results show that both the proposed noise models exhibit higher accuracy and lower complexity, especially that the LS‐SVM is more appropriate to be applied as a noise generator in PLC link and network level simulations instead of the current Markovian–Gaussian model.
Functional interval observer for the linear systems with disturbances
Authors: Gu Da‐Ke , Liu Long‐Wen , Duan Guang‐Ren
Published: October 2018

A Luenberger‐like functional interval observer for the linear systems with time‐varying disturbances is developed in this study. First, as an extension of the definition of the general interval observer, a new definition of the functional interval observer is provided. Then the sufficient conditions for the existence of such an observer are introduced in terms of the properties of positive systems. Simultaneously, on the basis of the proposed existence conditions, the parametric design method of the interval observer for the linear functional of the states in the systems is presented by employing the solution of the Sylvester equations. Eventually, the correctness and efficiency of the obtained results are illustrated by a numerical example.
Design of multiple‐mode observer and multiple‐mode controller for switched positive linear systems
Authors: Liu Li‐Juan , Zhao Xudong
Published: October 2018

In this study, the design problem of multiple‐mode observer and multiple‐mode controller is studied for switched positive linear systems. By proposing a new design approach for a class of switched positive linear system, numerical conditions for the existence of multiple‐mode observer and multiple‐mode controller are presented by using linear programming approach. First, a multiple‐mode observer is designed such that the error system is exponentially stable. Next, a robust multiple‐mode interval observer is presented for uncertain switched positive systems with uncertain parameters. In the sequel, a multiple‐mode output‐feedback controller is designed such that the closed‐loop system is exponentially stable. Compared with the existing references, the design method can bring out lower computational burden. Finally, three examples are given to show the effectiveness of the authors' results.
Static output feedback control design for constrained linear discrete‐time systems using data cluster analysis
Authors: Dantas Amanda Danielle O. S. , Dantas André F. O. A. , Dórea Carlos E. T.
Published: October 2018

Methods for the design of static output feedback controllers for linear discrete‐time systems subject to state and control constraints, additive disturbance and measurement noise are proposed in this study. First, the authors show how the design can be performed through the construction of an output feedback controlled invariant set together with the solution of several multiparametric linear programming (mp‐LP) problems. This technique is commonly used to characterise the optimal control action as a piecewise affine (PWA) function over polyhedral regions. However, when applied to constrained multiple output systems, it may require high online computational cost and large memory capacity, due to the number of polyhedral regions resulting from the mp‐LP solution. Within this context, the authors present a new approach to compute a PWA static output feedback control law over a smaller number of polyhedral regions using the K q‐flat data cluster analysis algorithm. Optimisation problems to compute PWA sub‐optimal static output feedback control laws over an even smaller number of regions are also proposed, and illustrated by numerical examples.
2–40 GHz dual‐band dual‐polarised nested Vivaldi antenna
Authors: Chen Dong , Wang Kun , Zhu Weihua , Wang Liquan , Liu Zhigang , Wang Tailei , Gao Jianjun , Zhu Shouzheng
Published: October 2018

A dual‐band dual‐polarised nested Vivaldi antenna (DBDPVA) is proposed in this study. The antenna consists of two orthogonal dual‐band nested antenna elements. The dual‐band nested antenna element is achieved by nesting a 2–8 GHz double‐slot section outside of an 8–40 GHz double‐slot section on a common substrate. The dual‐band nested antenna element is designed through parametric studies. To realise dual‐polarised radiation, the feeding networks of the horizontal element are lengthened, and two complementary slots are cut in the substrate of horizontal element and a vertical element to arrange them in orthogonal crossed form. The measured −10 dB impedance bandwidths (S11) of the 2–8 GHz section and 8–40 GHz sections are ∼2–8 GHz and 8–40 GHz. The antenna elements have similar radiation characteristics after the crossed form arrangement. The measured maximum gain is higher than 4.6 dBi at 2–40 GHz and around 10 dBi at 6–35 GHz. The DBDPVA can be used in radio‐frequency simulation system to expand the bandwidth and polarisation diversity of the system.
Calculation methods of equivalent circuit parameters for a dual stator solid rotor axial flux induction motor
Authors: Hong Cencen , Huang Wenxin , Hu Zhenwei
Published: October 2018

This study proposes a novel dual stator solid rotor axial flux induction motor (DSSRAFIM) for flywheel energy storage system and the computational methods for its equivalent circuit parameters. The quasi‐one‐dimensional theory and the penetration depth method assume that the electromagnetic field distribution in the solid rotor is uniformly distributed, and they are appropriate for optimal design. The multi‐layer method takes the non‐linear permeability of the solid rotor into account, and it reduces the computational effort by simplifying the complicated computation into a transfer matrix. The two‐dimensional finite element method and the three‐dimensional finite element method can provide very accurate results, but they spend a large amount of computational effort. All these methods are improved, so that they are applicable to the DSSRAFIM. Also, these methods are verified by experimental test.
Performance analysis of epoxy nanocomposites due to water droplet‐initiated discharges under AC and DC voltages and localisation of discharges
Authors: Mishra Palash , Desai B.M. Ashwin , Sarathi Ramanujam , Imai Takahiro
Published: October 2018

Corona inception voltage (CIV) due to water droplet sitting over the surface of epoxy nanocomposite material depends on supply voltage frequency, the conductivity of water droplet and the contact angle of the test specimens. The contact angle of the specimen and CIV due to water droplet has a direct correlation. It is realised that the CIV is high under negative DC and the least under AC voltages. Surface charge accumulation studies indicate that the accumulated charge and its decay time constant reduces in the damage‐caused zone due to corona activity. The ultra‐high frequency (UHF) signal generated due to water droplet‐initiated corona activity has frequency content in the range of 0.8–1 GHz. The localisation of incipient discharges is demonstrated by using the non‐iterative technique and the cross recurrence plot (CRP) technique is used to estimate the time difference of arrival (TDOA) of UHF signals generated due to water droplet‐initiated discharge. Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) depicts the elemental composition and reveals the difference in plasma temperature and threshold fluence between all the test specimens. In short, the performance of ion trapping particle filled epoxy nanocomposite performance is found to be best followed by titania filled epoxy nanocomposite and the base epoxy resin.
Influence of geographic origin on post-stocking survival and condition of European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) in a small river
Authors: Turek Jan , Žlábek Vladimír , Velíšek Josef , Lepič Pavel , Červený Daniel , Randák Tomáš
Published: October 2018

The post-release survival and condition of 1+ year old European grayling Thymallus thymallus reared in a local (Husinec) and two 250–300 km distant, hatcheries (Pardubice and Hynčice) were evaluated by the recapture of tagged fish five months after release into the Blanice River, Czech Republic, the fish population of which was depleted by cormorant predation during several previous winters. The fish were marked using Visible Implant Elastomer tags and released into six sites along the river in May 2014: 100 locally sourced fish and 100 of a strain from a distant source per site. Significantly higher recapture of Husinec (33%) than Pardubice (20%) was found at one site but was offset by results in the remaining two sites into which they were stocked. Significantly higher site fidelity was shown by Husinec (12%) than Hynčice (7%) fish in the three sites. Lower initial weight and condition factor of the Husinec fish was equal to or higher than fish from the distant hatcheries at recapture. Some differences in final weight, length, and condition factor were found among groups regardless of release site. Lower recapture rate, growth, and condition were displayed in fish released into the three downstream sites (Husinec 1 and Hynčice). The results indicated the potential for successful use of non-autochthonous stock for grayling population recovery.