bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zika virus targets the human thymic epithelium
Authors: Messias Carolina V. , Loss-Morais Guilherme , Carvalho Joseane Biso de , González Mariela N. , Cunha Daniela P. , Vasconcelos Zilton , Arge Luis W. P. , Farias-de-Oliveira Désio A. , Gerber Alexandra L. , Portari Elyzabeth A. , Ferreira Nilma , Raphael Lidiane M. S. , Bonaldo Myrna C. , Riederer Ingo , Lopes Moreira Maria E. , Cotta-de-Almeida Vinicius , Vasconcelos Ana T. R. , Mendes-da-Cruz Daniella A. , Savino Wilson
Published: January 2020

Previous work showed that the thymus can be infected by RNA viruses as HIV and HTLV-1. We thus hypothesized that the thymus might also be infected by the Zika virus (ZIKV). Herein we provide compelling evidence that ZIKV targets human thymic epithelial cells (TEC)in vivoandin vitro. ZIKV-infection enhances keratinization of TEC, with a decrease in proliferation and increase in cell death. Moreover, ZIKV modulates a high amount of coding RNAs with upregulation of genes related to cell adhesion and migration, as well as non-coding genes including miRNAs, circRNAs and lncRNAs. Moreover, we observed enhanced attachment of lymphoblastic T-cells to infected TEC, as well as virus transfer to those cells. Lastly, alterations in thymuses from babies congenitally infected were seen, with the presence of viral envelope protein in TEC. Taken together, our data reveals that the thymus, particularly the thymic epithelium, is a target for the ZIKV with changes in the expression of molecules that are relevant for interactions with developing thymocytes.
Native aggregation is a common feature among triosephosphate isomerases of different species
Authors: Rodríguez-Bolaños Mónica , Miranda-Astudillo Héctor , Pérez-Castañeda Edgar , González-Halphen Diego , Perez-Montfort Ruy
Published: January 2020

Triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) is an enzyme of the glycolysis pathway which exists in almost all types of cells. Its structure is the prototype of a motif called TIM-barrel or (α/β)8 barrel, which is the most common fold of all known enzyme structures. The simplest form in which TIM is catalytically active is a homodimer, in many species of bacteria and eukaryotes, or a homotetramer in some archaea. Here we show that the purified homodimeric TIMs from nine different species of eukaryotes and one of an extremophile bacterium spontaneously form higher order aggregates that can range from 3 to 21 dimers per macromolecular complex. We analysed these aggregates with clear native electrophoresis with normal and inverse polarity, blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, liquid chromatography, dynamic light scattering, thermal shift assay and transmission electron and fluorescence microscopies, we also performed bioinformatic analysis of the sequences of all enzymes to identify and predict regions that are prone to aggregation. Additionally, the capacity of TIM from Trypanosoma brucei to form fibrillar aggregates was characterized. Our results indicate that all the TIMs we studied are capable of forming oligomers of different sizes. This is significant because aggregation of TIM may be important in some of its non-catalytic moonlighting functions, like being a potent food allergen, or in its role associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Voluntary running does not reduce neuroinflammation or improve non-cognitive behavior in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Svensson Martina , Andersson Emelie , Manouchehrian Oscar , Yang Yiyi , Deierborg Tomas
Published: January 2020

Physical exercise has been suggested to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as well as ameliorate the progression of the disease. However, we recently published results from two large epidemiological studies showing no such beneficial effects on the development of AD. In addition, long-term, voluntary running in the 5xFAD mouse model of AD did not affect levels of soluble amyloid beta (Aβ), synaptic proteins or cognitive function. In this follow-up study, we investigate whether running could impact other pathological aspects of the disease, such as insoluble Aβ levels, the neuroinflammatory response and non-cognitive behavioral impairments. We investigated the effects of 24 weeks of voluntary wheel running in female 5xFAD mice (n = 30) starting at 2–3 months of age, before substantial extracellular plaque formation. Running mice developed hindlimb clasping earlier (p = 0.009) compared to sedentary controls. Further, running exacerbated the exploratory behavior in Elevated plus maze (p = 0.001) and anxiety in Open field (p = 0.024) tests. Additionally, microglia, cytokines and insoluble Aβ levels were not affected. Taken together, our findings suggest that voluntary wheel running is not a beneficial intervention to halt disease progression in 5xFAD mice.
Dynamic changes of Receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB expression in Circulating Tumor Cells during Denosumab predict treatment effectiveness in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Pantano Francesco , Rossi Elisabetta , Iuliani Michele , Facchinetti Antonella , Simonetti Sonia , Ribelli Giulia , Zoccoli Alice , Vincenzi Bruno , Tonini Giuseppe , Zamarchi Rita , Santini Daniele
Published: January 2020

Receptor-activator of nuclear-factor –κB-ligand (RANKL) and its receptor RANK have been recently identified as key players in breast cancer bone metastases. Since Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) are considered a crucial step of metastatic process, we explored RANK expression on CTCs in metastatic breast cancer (MBC), and the predictive value of RANK-positive CTCs in monitoring patients during treatment with denosumab (anti-RANKL antibody). To this purpose, we developed a novel CTC assay to quantify RANK-positive CTCs in forty-two bone MBC patients, candidates to denosumab treatment. Companion algorithms ΔAUC and Slope were developed, and correlated with time to first skeletal-related-events (SRE), time to bone metastasis progression and time to visceral metastasis progression. Twenty-seven patients had at least one CTC at baseline and, among these, nineteen (70%) had one or more RANK–positive CTCs. Notably, the baseline total CTCs, but not the RANK-positive, were associated with Time-to-first-SRE, Time-to-Bone-Metastasis-Progression and Time-to-Visceral-Metastasis-Progression. Conversely, during treatment monitoring, positive ΔAUC value, expression of RANK-positive CTCs persistence, correlated with longer Time-to-first-SRE (p = 0.0002) and Time-to-Bone-Metastasis-Progression (p = 0.0012). Furthermore, the early increase at second day, in RANK-positive CTCs (Positive-Slope) was associated with delay in time-to-first-SRE (p = 0.0038) and Time-to-Bone-Metastasis-Progression (p = 0.0024). We demonstrate, for the first time, the expression of RANK on CTCs in MBC patients and that the persistence of RANK expression determines denosumab effectiveness.
A serum metabolomics study of patients with nAMD in response to anti-VEGF therapy
Authors: Gao Yan , Teo Yi Chong Kelvin , Beuerman Roger W. , Wong Tien Yin , Zhou Lei , Cheung Chui Ming Gemmy
Published: January 2020

Intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) is the current standard of treatment for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), but there are no diagnostic tools to predict response of these therapies. We hypothesize that differences in baseline metabolic profiles of patients with nAMD may influence responsiveness to anti-VEGF therapy, and thus provide prognosticating information for these patients. A prospective study was performed on 100 patients with nAMD treated with anti-VEGF therapy. We classified patients into two groups: responders (n = 54) and non-responders (n = 46). The expression levels of glycerophosphocholine,LysoPC (18:2) and PS (18:0/20:4) were higher in non-responders and these findings were verified in the validation cohort, implicating that reductions in these three metabolites can be used as predictors for responsiveness to anti-VEGF therapy during the initial loading phase for patients with nAMD. Our study also provided new insights into the pathophysiological changes and molecular mechanism of anti- VEGF therapy for nAMD patients.
Publisher Correction: High-frequency oscillations in scalp EEG mirror seizure frequency in pediatric focal epilepsy
Authors: Boran Ece , Sarnthein Johannes , Krayenbühl Niklaus , Ramantani Georgia , Fedele Tommaso
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Enhanced mechanical and biological characteristics of PLLA composites through surface grafting of oligolactide on magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles
Authors: Kang Eun Young , Park Sung-Bin , Choi Bogyu , Baek Seung-Woon , Ko Kyoung-Won , Rhim Won-Kyu , Park Wooram , Kim Ik-Hwan , Han Dong Keun
Published: January 2020

Surface-modified magnesium hydroxide (MH) was incorporated to not only improve physico-mechanical properties but also enhance biological properties of Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) more effectively.
Development of mechanism-based antibacterial synergy between Fmoc-phenylalanine hydrogel and aztreonam
Authors: Gahane Avinash Yashwant , Singh Virender , Kumar Ashok , Kumar Thakur Ashwani
Published: January 2020

An AZT encapsulated Fmoc-F hydrogel produces a synergistic antibacterial effect against Gram-negative bacteria by increasing the cellular permeability of Fmoc-F.
Rapid preparation of highly transparent piezoresistive balls for optoelectronic devices
Authors: Tong Ruiping , Cai Ling , Chen Guangxue , Tian Junfei , He Minghui
Published: January 2020

Highly transparent piezoresistive balls are rapidly prepared for optoelectronic devices by photopolymerization of polymerizable deep eutectic solvents.
Low-toxicity carbon quantum dots derived from gentamicin sulfate to combat antibiotic resistance and eradicate mature biofilms
Authors: Li Peili , Liu Shuai , Cao Weiwei , Zhang Gaoke , Yang Xu , Gong Xuedong , Xing Xiaodong
Published: January 2020

Carbon quantum dots derived from gentamicin sulfate show low drug resistance, eradication of mature Staphylococcus aureus biofilm and low toxicity to mammalian cells.
A β-allyl carbamate fluorescent probe for vicinal dithiol proteins
Authors: Zhao Lanning , Bai Feifei , Chen Fan , Guo Menghuan , Gan Lu , Zhang Hong , Fang Jianguo
Published: January 2020

An unprecedented β-allyl carbamate fluorescent probe for vicinal dithiol proteins (VDPs) was developed. The favourable properties of the probe make it a useful tool for tracing the global changes of VDPs in living systems.
Cascade cycling of nicotinamide cofactor in a dual enzyme microsystem
Authors: Lv Rui , Lin Sen , Sun Shiyong , He Huichao , Zheng Fei , Tan Daoyong , Ma Biaobiao , He Meng
Published: January 2020

A functionalized microsystem capable of sustainable cascade cycling of NAD+/NADH via chemical signaling between spatially confined dual-enzyme and active membranes.
Synthesis routes of CeO2 nanoparticles dedicated to organophosphorus degradation: a benchmark
Authors: Trenque Isabelle , Magnano Greta Camilla , Bárta Jan , Chaput Frédéric , Bolzinger Marie Alexandrine , Pitault Isabelle , Briançon Stéphanie , Masenelli-Varlot Karine , Bugnet Matthieu , Dujardin Christophe , Čuba Václav , Amans David
Published: January 2020

Exposure to nerve agents, in military conflicts or terrorist acts, requires efficient decontamination systems. CeO2 nanoparticles appear efficient against organophosphorus compounds, thus we performed a benchmark on the available synthesis routes.
An electric double layer structure and differential capacitance at the electrode interface of tributylmethylammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide studied using a molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Katakura Seiji , Nishi Naoya , Kobayashi Kazuya , Amano Ken-ichi , Sakka Tetsuo
Published: January 2020

A molecular dynamics simulation at the electrode interface of a quaternary ammonium ionic liquid, tributylmethylammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide ([N1444+][TFSA−]), has been performed.
Interaction of hydantoin with solar wind minority ions: O6+ and He2+
Authors: Renoud Julie , Indrajith Suvasthika , Domaracka Alicja , Rousseau Patrick , Moretto-Capelle Patrick , Huber Bernd A. , Champeaux Jean-Philippe
Published: January 2020

Interactions between hydantoin and solar wind ions reveal a weak stability to charges, and show fragmentations involving hydrogen transfers.
How accurate are approximate quantum chemical methods at modelling solute–solvent interactions in solvated clusters?
Authors: Chen Junbo , Chan Bun , Shao Yihan , Ho Junming
Published: January 2020

In this paper, the performance ofab initiocomposite methods, and a wide range of DFT methods is assessed for the calculation of interaction energies of thermal clusters of a solute in water.
Self-assembly of new O- and S-heterocycle-based protective layers for copper in acid solution
Authors: Feng Li , Ren Xiaolei , Feng Yangyang , Tan Bochuan , Zhang Shengtao , Li Wenpo , Liu Jie
Published: January 2020

Two heterocycle-based indole self-assembly monolayers (SAMs) including O-heterocycle indole (FYBI) and S-heterocycle indole (TYBI) have been synthesized and investigated on copper corrosion inhibition.
Methanol to olefins over H-RUB-13 zeolite: regulation of framework aluminum siting and acid density and their relationship to the catalytic performance
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Sen , Shi Dezhi , Qin Zhangfeng , Wang Pengfei , Wang Guofu , Li Junfen , Dong Mei , Fan Weibin , Wang Jianguo
Published: January 2020

Incorporating boron promotes siting of more aluminum atoms at the sites accessible to MTO and then enhances the catalytic performance of H-RUB-13 in MTO.
Structurally characterized gallium–chrysin complexes with anticancer potential
Authors: Halevas Eleftherios , Mavroidi Barbara , Antonoglou Orestis , Hatzidimitriou Antonios , Sagnou Marina , Pantazaki Anastasia A. , Litsardakis George , Pelecanou Maria
Published: January 2020

Novel, first time crystallographically characterized complexes of Ga(iii) with the flavonoid chrysin with cytotoxic and ROS-generating activities.
A solid-spiking matrix matched calibration strategy for simultaneous determination of cadmium and chromium in sediments by isotope dilution laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Terán-Baamonde J. , Carlosena A. , Soto-Ferreiro R. M. , Andrade J. M. , Cantarero-Roldán A. , Muniategui-Lorenzo S.
Published: January 2020

New quantification of Cd and Cr in sediments by isotope dilution LA-ICPMS, significantly simplifies and shortens the isotope dilution step.
Predicting selectivity of paracellular pores for biomimetic applications
Authors: Rajagopal Nandhini , Durand Alejandro J. , Nangia Shikha
Published: January 2020

Systematic approach to predicting selectivity of paracellular pores for biomimetic applications.
In situ assembly of CQDs/Bi2WO6 for highly efficient photocatalytic degradation of VOCs under visible light
Authors: Liu Yangqing , Zhu Changjun , Sun Jingwen , Ge Yan , Song Fujiao , Xu Qi
Published: January 2020

A facile strategy of the assembly of CQD/Bi2WO6 hybrid materials, which exhibit highly efficient photocatalytic degradation of pollutants under visible light.
Exceptionally high NLO response and deep ultraviolet transparency of superalkali doped macrocyclic oligofuran rings
Authors: Sajid Hasnain , Ayub Khurshid , Mahmood Tariq
Published: January 2020

Cyclic oligofurans containing five and six furan rings (5CF & 6CF) doped with superalkalis are presented here as a new type of NLO material.
Construction of a tandem HZSM-5 with CuZnAl catalyst for alkylation of benzene with syngas
Authors: Gao Bize , Ding Chuanmin , Wang Junwen , Ding Guangyue , Dong Jinxiang , Ge Hui , Li Xuekuan
Published: January 2020

A bifunctional catalyst composed of ZSM-5 and Cu–Zn–Al shows an outstanding catalytic performance in the alkylation reaction of benzene with syngas.
Molecular recognition of methamphetamine by carboxylatopillar[5]arene: drug-dependent complexation stoichiometry and insights into medical applications
Authors: Silveira Eduardo V. , Wanderlind Eduardo H. , Masson Andrieli K. , Cordeiro Pâmella S. , Nascimento Vanessa , Affeldt Ricardo F. , Micke Gustavo A.
Published: January 2020

The molecular recognition of the carboxylatopillar[5]arene on methamphetamine showed interconversion between H2:G ⇋ H:G stoichiometries with dependence on drug concentration.
Microbubbles in combination with focused ultrasound for the delivery of quercetin-modified sulfur nanoparticles through the blood brain barrier into the brain parenchyma and relief of endoplasmic reticulum stress to treat Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Liu Yanan , Gong Youcong , Xie Wenjie , Huang Anlian , Yuan Xiaoyu , Zhou Hui , Zhu Xufeng , Chen Xu , Liu Jiawei , Liu Jie , Qin Xiuying
Published: January 2020

The delivery of drugs across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) effectively and safely is one of the major challenges in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Insights into DNA catalysis from structural and functional studies of the 8-17 DNAzyme
Authors: Cepeda-Plaza Marjorie , Peracchi Alessio
Published: January 2020

The review examines functional knowledge gathered over two decades of research on the 8-17 DNAzyme, focusing on three aspects: the structural requirements for catalysis, the role of metal ions and the participation of general acid-base catalysis.
Novel ultra-small Pd NPs on SOS spheres: a new catalyst for domino intramolecular Heck and intermolecular Sonogashira couplings
Authors: Lakshminarayana Bhairi , Vinodkumar T. , Satyanarayana G. , Subrahmanyam Ch.
Published: January 2020

We report a novel catalyst Pd/SOS that catalyzes the dual C–C bond forming coupling of an iodoarene moiety with an internal alkene and an external alkyne via an intramolecular Heck reaction, followed by an intermolecular Sonogashira reaction, respectively.
Combustion of lean methane over Co3O4 catalysts prepared with different cobalt precursors
Authors: Zheng Yifan , Yu Yueqin , Zhou Huan , Huang Wanzhen , Pu Zhiying
Published: January 2020

The effects of cobalt precursor on the microstructure, surface properties, reducibility and catalytic performance for methane combustion were investigated.
Gas circulation rate and medium exchange ratio as influential factors affecting ethanol production in carbon monoxide fermentation using a packed-bed reactor
Authors: Jang Nulee , Yasin Muhammad , Lee Mungyu , Kang Hyunsoo , Chang In Seop
Published: January 2020

A packed-bed reactor (PBR) which has recyclable internal gas and medium exchange functions for carbon monoxide (CO) fermentation was operated using an ethanol producing acetogen,Clostridium autoethanogenumDSM 10061.
Hybrid CdSe/CsPbI3 quantum dots for interface engineering in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ge Jing , Li Weixin , He Xuan , Chen Hui , Fang Wei , Du Xing , Li Yuxuan , Zhao Lei
Published: January 2020

Hybrid CdSe/CsPbI3 quantum dots (QDs) are selected for incorporation between the perovskite film and the hole transport layer (HTL).
Unification of lower and upper critical solution temperature phase behavior of globular protein solutions in the presence of multivalent cations
Authors: Begam Nafisa , Matsarskaia Olga , Sztucki Michael , Zhang Fajun , Schreiber Frank
Published: January 2020

Here we report that a unified LCST and UCST phase behavior in protein solutions can be achieved by tuning the concentration of multivalent salts.
Separator-free and concentrated LiNO3electrolyte cells enable uniform lithium electrodeposition
Authors: Rodriguez Rodrigo , Edison Ruth A. , Stephens Ryan M. , Sun Ho-Hyun , Heller Adam , Mullins C. Buddie
Published: January 2020

Imaging of lithium electrodepositions revealed that in the absence of a compressed porous separator, achievedviaa plastic washer, dendrite-free lithium was deposited from glyme solutions of 1 M LiNO3.
Increased activity in the oxygen evolution reaction by Fe4+-induced hole states in perovskite La1−xSrxFeO3
Authors: Shen Zechao , Zhuang Yongbin , Li Weiwei , Huang Xiaochun , Oropeza Freddy E. , Hensen Emiel J. M. , Hofmann Jan P. , Cui Meiyan , Tadich Anton , Qi Dongchen , Cheng Jun , Li Jun , Zhang Kelvin H. L.
Published: January 2020

Hole for faster OER: The hole state induced by Fe4+ promotes the OER process. It reduces the energy barrier for electron transfer at the interface and facilitates a faster electron transfer from reaction intermediates to the catalyst.
The effect of a vitamin B12 based catalyst on hydrogen peroxide oxidation reactions and the performance evaluation of a membraneless hydrogen peroxide fuel cell under physiological pH conditions
Authors: Ji Jungyeon , Chung Yongjin , Kwon Yongchai
Published: January 2020

A new anodic catalyst (CNT/VitB12) is introduced for promoting the hydrogen peroxide oxidation reaction (HPOR) and the performance of a membraneless hydrogen peroxide fuel cell (HPFC).
High-performance optoelectronic memory based on bilayer MoS2 grown by Au catalyst
Authors: Yang Fengyou , Chen Shengyao , Feng Huimin , Wang Cong , Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Shu , Zhou Zhican , Li Bo , Ma Lijun , Yang Haiguang , Xie Yong , Liu Qian
Published: January 2020

We develop a high-performance nonvolatile MoS2-based optoelectronic memory device based on a MoS2 bilayer grown by a Au catalyst.
Ruthenium doped Ni2P nanosheet arrays for active hydrogen evolution in neutral and alkaline water
Authors: Wei Chengbo , Fan Xiaoming , Deng Xue , Ma Linzheng , Zhang Xiao , Liu Qingyun , Guo Jinxue
Published: January 2020

A surface modulation method is developed via doping Ru onto the surface of a Ni2P nanosheet array supported on nickel foam to activate the Pt-like hydrogen evolution activity in alkaline solution and especially in neutral media.
Developing, Implementing, and Improving Assessment and Treatment Fidelity in Clinical Aphasia Research
Authors: Spell Leigh Ann , Richardson Jessica D. , Basilakos Alexandra , Stark Brielle C. , Teklehaimanot Abeba , Hillis Argye E. , Fridriksson Julius
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the development and implementation of a fidelity program for an ongoing, multifacility, aphasia intervention study and to explain how initial fidelity measures are being used to improve study integrity.

Method

A Clinical Core team developed and incorporated a fidelity plan in this study. The aims of the Clinical Core team were to (a) supervise data collection and data management at each clinical site, (b) optimize and monitor assessment fidelity, and (c) optimize and monitor treatment fidelity. Preliminary data are being used to guide ongoing efforts to preserve and improve the fidelity of this intervention study.

Results

Preliminary results show that specific recruitment strategies help to improve appropriate referrals and that accommodations to participants and their families help to maintain excellent retention. A streamlined and centralized training program assures the reliability of assessors and raters for the study's assessment and treatment protocols. Ongoing monitoring of both assessment and treatment tasks helps to maintain study integrity. Less-than-optimal interrater reliability data for the raters of some of the discourse measures guided the Clinical Core team to address the training and coding inconsistencies in a timely manner.

Conclusions

The creation of a Clinical Core team is instrumental in developing and implementing a fidelity plan for improved assessment and treatment fidelity. Intentional planning and assignment of study staff to implement and monitor ongoing fidelity measures assures that clinical data are reliable and valid. Ongoing review of the plan shows areas of strengths and weaknesses for continuing adjustments and improvement of study fidelity.
Comparative study on performance characteristics of PM and reluctance machines equipped with overlapping, semi‐overlapping, and non‐overlapping windings
Authors: Gundogdu Tayfun , Komurgoz Guven
Published: January 2020

In this study, the compatibleness/effectiveness of the proposed novel semi‐overlapping winding (NSW) topology has been investigated by implementing into different synchronous machine technologies, namely interior permanent‐magnet machine, synchronous reluctance machine (SynRM), permanent‐magnet assisted SynRM, and double‐salient reluctance machine. All considered machines have also been designed with different winding topologies; i.e. integer‐slot distributed winding, fractional‐slot concentrated winding (FSCW) in order to reveal the merits/demerits of the proposed NSWs. A comprehensive electromagnetic performance comparison has been presented. It has been validated that the proposed winding topology promises significant advantages; such as improved efficiency with substantially reduced total axial length, low eddy permanent magnet (PM) loss and low risk of irreversible magnet demagnetisation over conventional winding topologies. It has also been revealed that the implementation of proposed NSWs into the reluctance machines results with higher torque and power output than that of FSCWs.
Coordinated optimal dispatch of VPPs in unbalanced ADNs
Authors: Xu Tong , Wu Wenchuan , Wang Zhen‐Yi , Zhu Tao
Published: January 2020

To manage and control massive distributed energy resources (DERs) integrated into active distribution networks (ADNs), dispersed DERs are aggregated as virtual power plants (VPPs). This study introduces a distributed optimal dispatch strategy of VPPs considering operational constraints in unbalanced ADN. First, a practical multi‐VPP coordination optimal dispatch model considering P–Q coupling characteristics in unbalanced ADN is proposed. Then, the primal–dual interior‐point algorithm is employed to transform the original model into a Karush–Kuhn–Tucker equation, where afterwards distributed quasi‐Newton method is developed to solve the equation. Under the proposed distributed strategy, each VPP only communicates limited boundary information with utility grid. With the advantage of quasi‐second‐order information, the proposed method outperforms the popular distributed gradient‐based algorithm, alternating direction method of multipliers. The distributed method provides merits such as efficient calculation and privacy protection for multi‐VPP operation in ADN. Numerical tests evaluate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Hexagon raster‐based method for distribution network planning considering line routes and pole locations
Authors: Li Zihao , Wu Wenchuan , Zhang Boming , Tai Xue
Published: January 2020

Line routing is a critical issue in distribution network planning and conventional raster solutions for line routing have certain deficiencies. This study presents a new methodology for a distribution network planning problem based on a hexagonal raster in a geographic information system. Differing from the conventional square raster, the hexagonal raster‐based model involves less binary variables, but with the same arm length, and guarantees that the planning routes are arm‐connected. An iterative refining method is proposed to reduce the computational burden with the guaranteed resolution, in which a mixed‐integer linear programming problem is solved in each stage. The proposed model can simultaneously optimise electric line routes and pole positions, in contrast to conventional models where the poles are not considered. Numerical case studies illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach for distribution network planning.
Modelling heterogeneous traffic dynamics by considering the influence of V2V safety messages
Authors: Li Tenglong , Hui Fei , Zhao Xiangmo , Liu Ce , Ngoduy Dong
Published: January 2020

In recent years, more attention has been paid to the study of modelling heterogeneous traffic flow dynamics consisting of regular vehicles (RVs) and connected vehicles (CVs). However, the establishment of current mixed traffic flow models mostly lacks the support of field experimental data analysis results. In this study, a new heterogeneous car‐following model is presented on the basis of data mining results to study the impact of vehicle‐to‐vehicle (V2V) safety messages on traffic flow stability. The analytically critical stability criterion of this proposed heterogeneous model is obtained by linear stability analysis. Then, the effect of the market penetration rate (MPR) of CVs on heterogeneous traffic stability is investigated. Finally, simulation experiments are carried out under periodic boundary conditions to test the critical stability condition. Both the theoretical derivation and simulation experiment results show that the traffic flow stability can decline despite improvements in traffic safety in the case of considering only the safety information of the nearest‐neighbour leading vehicle. However, both the safety and stability of traffic flow can be enhanced by considering the V2V messages of more leading vehicles. Moreover, the heterogeneous traffic flow stability is improved with an increase in the MPR of CVs.
Current control based on limit cycle stability for photovoltaic arrays
Authors: Vazquez Erick , Vazquez Nimrod , Femat Ricardo
Published: January 2020

This study describes a current controller, based on a Lyapunov control law and a limit cycle oscillator (LCO) to provide stability into the grid‐connected photovoltaic (PV) system during grid faults. The current controller also ensures an efficient current injection and active power regulation. The proposed controller offers a high degree of immunity and robustness against perturbation on the grid, due to the three‐phase LCO – frequency locked loop (FLL) synchronisation technique. The LCO‐FLL is used to compute the positive and negative sequence components of the grid, which are used by a Lyapunov control law in order to control the injected currents into the grid. Moreover, the inverter input voltage is considered in the controller design. The control configuration is proved by two different strategies, balanced injected currents and constant active power in the presence of an unbalanced grid voltage. Simulation and experimental test results are presented to demonstrate the proficiency and performance of the proposed technique in grid‐connected PV systems.
Joint power and time width allocation in collocated MIMO radar for multi‐target tracking
Authors: Li Zhengjie , Xie Junwei , Zhang Haowei
Published: January 2020

Collocated multiple‐input multiple‐output radar can track multiple targets simultaneously by transmitting multiple orthogonal beams and adopting the digital beamforming technology. In this scenario, the authors propose a joint power and time width allocation approach, which combines a cognitive tracking model based on the posterior Cramér‐Rao lower bound (PCRLB) and the square‐root cubature Kalman filter. The aim of the optimisation model is to improve the velocity estimation accuracy by minimising the sum of the PCRLBs of the velocity of multiple targets, which are predicted based on the feedback information from the cognitive tracking model. However, there are two finite working resources in the optimisation model: the total transmit power of multiple beams and the total effective time width of each corresponding signal. The resource allocation problem can be transformed into a non‐convex optimisation problem, which can be converted into a standard convex optimisation problem by the linear relationship between the optimal power and the optimal time width. In this way, the joint power and time width allocation scheme is established as an adaptive closed‐loop system. Numerical results demonstrate that the velocity tracking accuracy can be improved efficiently by the proposed algorithm.
Security for smart cities
Authors: Toh Chai K.
Published: January 2020

Smart cities are evolving globally and many governments have invested large sums of monies to develop smart cities. This development is not a result of an overnight decision but rather, smart cities have evolved through a period of time, directly from earlier work on the digital city to ubiquitous city, green city, connected city, sustainable city, eco‐city etc. The present age sees the arrival of very high‐speed wireless 5G connectivity, fast GPU multi‐core‐based servers, big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics. Many of these new technologies have supported the development and realisation of smart cities. In this study, the authors present an outline of security for smart cities and provide a deeper understanding of what we meant by securing smart cities. They discuss the applicability of existing security methods of authentication, access control, encryption, firewalls, and their appropriateness to defending a smart city. Specifically, we cover the security of data, internet, water supply, electricity supply, city brain, and other critical city services and present the possible malicious attacks on a smart city and consequences. Finally, they discuss security best practices for smart cities.
Chemical abundances of 1111 FGK stars from the HARPS-GTO planet search sample
Authors: Costa Silva A. R. , Delgado Mena E. , Tsantaki M.
Published: January 2020

Context. Elemental abundances are of prime importance to help us reconstruct the origin and evolution of stars and galaxies in our Universe. Sulfur abundances have not been as heavily studied as other elements, so some details regarding their behaviour are still unclear.

Aims. We aim to investigate [S/Fe] ratios in stars of the solar neighbourhood in order to analyse the chemical evolution of sulfur and probe for possible differences in abundances of planet host and non-planet host stars.

Methods. We used the code MOOG to perform spectral synthesis and derive v sin i values and [S/Fe] ratios for 719 FGK stars with high-resolution (R ~ 115 000) and high-quality spectra from the HARPS-GTO programme. We found the best fit and corresponding parameter values by performing χ2 minimisation of the deviation between synthetic profiles and observational spectra.

Results. Our results reveal that sulfur behaves as a typical α-element, with low abundances in young thin disc stars and high abundances in old thick disc stars, following what was expected from our understanding of the Galactic chemical evolution (GCE). Nevertheless, further studies into the abundances of sulfur in very metal-poor stars are required as our sample only derived sulfur abundances of stars with metallicity as low as [Fe/H] = − 1.13 dex. High-α metal rich stars are more enhanced in sulfur compared to their thin disc counterparts at the same metallicity. We compare our results to GCE models from other authors in the [S/Fe] versus [Fe/H] plane. The [S/Fe]-age relationship is a good proxy for time, just as is the case with other α-elements. We report no differences in the abundances of sulfur between stars with and without planetary companions in the metallicity range [Fe/H] ≥−0.3 dex.
Three-dimensional reconstruction of multiple particle acceleration regions during a coronal mass ejection
Authors: Morosan D. E. , Palmerio E. , Pomoell J. , Vainio R. , Palmroth M. , Kilpua E. K. J.
Published: January 2020

Context. Some of the most prominent sources for particle acceleration in our Solar System are large eruptions of magnetised plasma from the Sun called coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These accelerated particles can generate radio emission through various mechanisms.

Aims. CMEs are often accompanied by a variety of solar radio bursts with different shapes and characteristics in dynamic spectra. Radio bursts directly associated with CMEs often show movement in the direction of CME expansion. Here, we aim to determine the emission mechanism of multiple moving radio bursts that accompanied a flare and CME that took place on 14 June 2012.

Methods. We used radio imaging from the Nançay Radioheliograph, combined with observations from the Solar Dynamics Observatory and Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory spacecraft, to analyse these moving radio bursts in order to determine their emission mechanism and three-dimensional (3D) location with respect to the expanding CME.

Results. In using a 3D representation of the particle acceleration locations in relation to the overlying coronal magnetic field and the CME propagation, for the first time, we provide evidence that these moving radio bursts originate near the CME flanks and that some are possible signatures of shock-accelerated electrons following the fast CME expansion in the low corona.

Conclusions. The moving radio bursts, as well as other stationary bursts observed during the eruption, occur simultaneously with a type IV continuum in dynamic spectra, which is not usually associated with emission at the CME flanks. Our results show that moving radio bursts that could traditionally be classified as moving type IVs can represent shock signatures associated with CME flanks or plasma emission inside the CME behind its flanks, which are closely related to the lateral expansion of the CME in the low corona. In addition, the acceleration of electrons generating this radio emission appears to be favoured at the CME flanks, where the CME encounters coronal streamers and open field regions.
A multiplicity study of transiting exoplanet host stars
Authors: Southworth J. , Bohn A. J. , Kenworthy M. A. , Ginski C. , Mancini L.
Published: January 2020

Context. Binarity is a widespread phenomenon around solar-type stars, including the host stars of transiting extrasolar planets.

Aims. We performed a detailed study of six transiting planetary systems with relatively bright stars close enough to affect observations of these systems. These contaminants were characterised in a companion work.

Methods. We used theoretical spectra to propagate the observed K-band light ratios into the optical passbands used to observe these systems. Light curves were analysed whilst taking the contaminating light and its uncertainty into account. We present and applied a method to correct the velocity amplitudes of the host stars for the presence of contaminating light.

Results. We determined the physical properties of six systems (WASP-20, WASP-70, WASP-8, WASP-76, WASP-2, and WASP-131) whilst accounting for contaminating light. In the case of WASP-20, the measured physical properties are very different for the three scenarios considered: ignoring binarity, planet transits brighter star, and planet transits fainter star. In the other five cases, our results are very similar to those obtained when neglecting contaminating light. We used our results to determine the mean correction factors to planet radius, ⟨XR⟩, mass, ⟨XM⟩, and density, ⟨Xρ⟩, caused by nearby objects. We find ⟨XR⟩ = 1.009 ± 0.045, which is smaller than literature values because we were able to reject the possibility that the planet orbits the fainter star in all but one case. We find ⟨XM⟩ = 1.031 ± 0.019, which is larger than ⟨XR⟩ because of the strength of the effect of contaminating light on the radial velocity measurements of the host star. We find ⟨Xρ⟩ = 0.995 ± 0.046: the small size of this correction is due to two effects: the corrections on planet radius and mass partially cancel; and some nearby stars are close enough to contaminate the light curves of the system but not radial velocities of the host star. These corrections can be applied to samples of transiting hot Jupiters to statistically remove biases due to light contamination.

Conclusions. We conclude that binarity of planet host stars is important for the small number of transiting hot Jupiters with a very bright and close nearby star, but it has only a small effect on population-level studies of these objects.
French grammars in England 1660‑1820
Authors: Coffey Simon
Published: January 2020

This paper presents an analysis of a corpus of grammars written for learning French in England from 1660 to 1820, a period sometimes referred to euphemistically as the “long century” which saw language teaching evolve in response to broader social and epistemological developments, namely the increased codification of vernacular grammar against a backdrop of scientific rationalism and, in England, the greater institutionalisation of school-based pedagogies. The aim of the analysis is twofold: firstly, to identify some key shifts in the formulation of content, specifically changes in overall structure and distribution of sections, including differences in grammatical nomenclature, and, secondly, to contextualise these developments by considering the changing role of the grammarian-teachers as demonstrated in the way they position themselves as authors to different publics.
Nucléaire et dessalement de l’eau de mer
Authors: Crampon Cécile
Published: January 2020

L’eau douce est vitale pour l’humanité. Pourtant, un nombre croissant de territoires dans le monde souffre de pénurie d’eau. Population croissante, épuisement des aquifères et changement climatique : la situation pourrait encore s’aggraver. Le dessalement de l’eau de mer apparaît comme une solution clé pour bon nombre de pays côtiers. Aujourd’hui, plus de 15 000 usines de dessalement (leur nombre a augmenté de 160 % ces dix dernières années) génèrent environ 75 millions de m3 par jour. Cependant, le dessalement de l’eau de mer est un processus énergivore, et presque toutes les usines de dessalement dépendent aujourd’hui des combustibles fossiles pour leurs besoins énergétiques.
Near-optimal solutions and tight lower bounds for the parallel machines scheduling problem with learning effect
Authors: Hidri Lotfi , Jemmali Mahdi
Published: January 2020

In this paper, the parallel machines scheduling problem with Dejong’s learning effect is addressed. The considered problem has a practical interest since it models real-world situations. In addition, this problem is a challenging one because of its NP-Hardness. In this work, a set of heuristics are proposed. The developed heuristics are categorized into two types. The first category is based on the dispatching methods, with new enhancement variants. The second type is more sophisticated and requires solving NP-Hard problems. Furthermore, several lower bounds are developed in order to assess the performance of the proposed heuristics. These lower bounds are based on solving the problem of the determination of the minimum average load under taking into account some observations. Among these observations, the existence of a limit position that the jobs are not allowed to exceed in any optimal schedule. Finally, an extensive experimental study is conducted over benchmark test problems, with up to 1500 jobs and 5280 instances. The obtained results are outperforming those proposed in the literature.
Radiological Monitoring of Modern Immunotherapy: A Novel Challenge for Interdisciplinary Patient Care
Authors: Lennartz Simon , Diederich Stefan , Doehn Christian , Gebauer Bernhard , Grünwald Viktor , Notohamiprodjo Mike , Sommer Wieland , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Persigehl Thorsten
Published: January 2020

Background Immunotherapy represents an effective therapeutic approach for many malignant diseases that were previously difficult to treat. However, since immunotherapy can lead to atypical therapy response patterns in the form of pseudo-progression or mixed responses and comprise an altered spectrum of adverse reactions, they present a new challenge for oncologic imaging. Detailed knowledge in this area is essential for oncologic clinical radiologists, since the radiological report is a cornerstone of response assessment, and increasingly influences therapy regimens and coverage by health insurances.

Method This white paper is based on an expert meeting in Frankfurt am Main and subsequent discussions between the authors. Based on the iRECIST criteria, it is intended to provide orientation for a response assessment of oncologic patients undergoing immunotherapy that can be applied in the clinical routine.

Results Radiological therapy monitoring outside clinical studies is subject to inherent limitations, but should be performed based on iRECIST criteria, according to the opinion of the expert panel. It should be taken into account that immunotherapies can in principle lead to pseudo-progression and autoimmunological side effects. Since radiological follow-up is currently the only method to accurately distinguish real progressive disease from pseudo-progression, clinically stable patients with disease progression under immunotherapy should undergo additional short-term follow-up imaging according to the suspected diagnosis. Biopsy should be used cautiously and predominately in curative settings.

Conclusion For response assessment of immunotherapy in clinical studies, the new iRECIST criteria were published in 2017. Outside studies, the application of iRECIST criteria in the clinical routine is subject to several limitations. The recommendations implied in these criteria can, however, be used in conjunction with the current literature as a guideline in clinical practice and outside studies.

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Das Genie beherrscht das Chaos
Authors: Hertlein Margit
Published: January 2020

Im dritten Teil unserer Artikelserie geht es um das Zeit- und Selbstmanagement. Was bin ich für ein Typ und wovon lasse ich mich leicht stressen? Lesen Sie, wie Sie als Führungskraft innehalten können und Prioritäten setzen.
Renal Sympathetic Denervation by Image-Guided Percutaneous Ethanol Injection – Histopathologic Characteristics, Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Freyhardt Patrick , Haage Patrick , Walter Anna , Aufmesser-Freyhardt Birgit , Guenther Rolf W. , Streitparth Florian
Published: January 2020

Purpose Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of chemical renal denervation by image-guided periarterial ethanol injection in pigs with emphasis on histopathological characteristics.

Materials and Methods Unilateral renal periarterial ethanol injection under general anesthesia was performed in 16 animals with the contralateral kidney serving as the control. All interventions were performed in an open MRI system under real-time multiplanar guidance. In 10 pigs an ethanol-carbostesin contrast agent mixture was injected with amounts of 5 ml (6 animals, group I) and 10 ml (4 animals, group II). 6 pigs (group III) were treated with 10 ml of an ethanol-polyacrylic (2 %) mixture. Four weeks after treatment, all animals underwent MRI including MRA. After euthanasia, macroscopic and histologic examination of the kidneys, renal arteries and periarterial tissue was performed to assess nerve injury and potential side effects. Furthermore, the norepinephrine concentration (RTNEC) in the renal tissue was determined as a surrogate parameter of efficacy.

Results Histologic signs of nerval degeneration with various degrees of severity and circumferential distribution were found in all groups. Injury depths ranged up to 7.6 mm. In groups II and III the nerve count was significantly lower on the treated side. Renal artery stenosis was not observed in any pig. In all pigs of group II treatment resulted in neural degeneration with a mean RTNEC reduction of 53 % (p < 0.02). In groups I and III significant changes in RTNEC were not observed.

Conclusion Image-guided percutaneous periarterial ethanol injection was efficient and safe for renal denervation. The detected variations in histologic outcome underlined the importance of the preclinical optimization of the technique in order to maximize treatment effects in humans.

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