bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The occurrence and formation of monoterpenes in herbivore-damaged poplar roots
Authors: Lackus Nathalie D. , Lackner Sandra , Gershenzon Jonathan , Unsicker Sybille B. , Köllner Tobias G.
Published: December 2018

Volatiles are often released upon herbivory as plant defense compounds. While the formation of volatiles above-ground has been intensively studied, little is known about herbivore-induced root volatiles. Here, we show that cockchafer larvae-damaged roots of Populus trichocarpa and P. nigra release a mixture of monoterpenes, including (−)-α-pinene, (−)-camphene, (−)-β-pinene, p-cymene, and 1,8-cineole. Three terpene synthases, PtTPS16 and PtTPS21 from P. trichocarpa and PnTPS4 from P. nigra, could be identified and characterized in vitro. PnTPS4 was found to produce 1,8-cineole as sole product. PtTPS16 and PtTPS21, although highly similar to each other, showed different product specificities and produced γ-terpinene and a mixture of (−)-camphene, (−)-α-pinene, (−)-β-pinene, and (−)-limonene, respectively. Four active site residues were found to determine the different product specificities of the two enzymes. The expression profiles of PtTPS16, PtTPS21, and PnTPS4 in undamaged and herbivore-damaged poplar roots generally matched the emission pattern of monoterpenes, indicating that monoterpene emission in roots is mainly determined at the gene transcript level. Bioassays with Phytophtora cactorum (Oomycetes) revealed inhibitory effects of vapor-phase 1,8-cineole and (−)-β-pinene on the growth of this important plant pathogen. Thus herbivore-induced volatile monoterpenes may have a role in defense against pathogens that cause secondary infections after root wounding.
Ergosterol peroxide from marine fungus Phoma sp. induces ROS-dependent apoptosis and autophagy in human lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Wu Han-Ying , Yang Feng-Ling , Li Lan-Hui , Rao Yerra Koteswara , Ju Tz-Chuen , Wong Wei-Ting , Hsieh Chih-Yu , Pivkin Michael V. , Hua Kuo-Feng , Wu Shih-Hsiung
Published: December 2018

As part of our ongoing search for novel therapeutic structures from microorganism, the chemical examination of marine fungus Phoma sp. resulted in the isolation of ergosterol, ergosterol peroxide (EP), and 9,11-dehydroergosterol peroxide (DEP). The bioassay results demonstrated that the three isolates reduced the viability of various cancer cells, with EP being highest in human lung cancer cell line A549 cells. EP induced caspase-dependent apoptosis through mitochondrial damage in A549 cells. Additionally, EP-induced ROS generation and apoptosis were attenuated by ROS-generating enzymes inhibitors and antioxidant N-acetylcysteine, indicated that ROS played an important role in EP-mediated apoptosis in A549 cells. Furthermore, it was observed that EP induced ROS-dependent autophagy, which attenuated apoptosis in A549 cells. On the other hand, EP reduced the LPS/ATP-induced proliferation and migration of A549 cells through attenuated NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Additionally, EP showed synergistic cytotoxic effect with antitumor drug Sorafenib in A549 cell viability inhibition. Furthermore, Micro-Western Array and Western blot analyses demonstrated that the protein levels of EGFR, HSP27, MEK5, AKT1, mTOR, Smad2, Smad3, TAB1, NF-κB, and HIF1-α decreased, while the levels of p-p38α, p-ERK1/2, p-JNK, fibronectin and p27 increased. Collectively, the results of this study demonstrated that EP might be useful to develop a therapeutic candidate for lung cancer complications.
Learning to localise weakly-informative sound spectra with and without feedback
Authors: Zonooz Bahram , Arani Elahe , Opstal A. John Van
Published: December 2018

How the human auditory system learns to map complex pinna-induced spectral-shape cues onto veridical estimates of sound-source elevation in the median plane is still unclear. Earlier studies demonstrated considerable sound-localisation plasticity after applying pinna moulds, and to altered vision. Several factors may contribute to auditory spatial learning, like visual or motor feedback, or updated priors. We here induced perceptual learning for sounds with degraded spectral content, having weak, but consistent, elevation-dependent cues, as demonstrated by low-gain stimulus-response relations. During training, we provided visual feedback for only six targets in the midsagittal plane, to which listeners gradually improved their response accuracy. Interestingly, listeners’ performance also improved without visual feedback, albeit less strongly. Post-training results showed generalised improved response behaviour, also to non-trained locations and acoustic spectra, presented throughout the two-dimensional frontal hemifield. We argue that the auditory system learns to reweigh contributions from low-informative spectral bands to update its prior elevation estimates, and explain our results with a neuro-computational model.
Approaches and challenges in the synthesis of three-dimensional covalent-organic frameworks
Authors: Ma Xingjian , Scott Timothy F.
Published: December 2018

Covalent organic frameworks, cross-linked crystalline polymers constructed from rigid organic precursors connected by covalent interactions, have emerged as a promising class of nanoporous materials owing to their highly desirable combination of attributes, including facile chemical tunability, structural diversity, and excellent stability. Despite the distinct advantages offered by three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks, research efforts have predominantly focused on the more synthetically-accessible, two-dimensional variants. Here we present an overview of synthetic approaches to yield three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks, identify synthetic obstacles that have hindered progress in the field and recently-employed methods to address them, and propose alternative techniques to circumvent these synthetic challenges.
Electrochemical-digital immunosensor with enhanced sensitivity for detecting human salivary glucocorticoid hormone
Authors: Khan Muhammad S. , Dighe Ketan , Wang Zhen , Srivastava Indrajit , Schwartz-Duval Aaron S. , Misra Santosh K. , Pan Dipanjan
Published: December 2018

In this work, an ultra-sensitive electrochemical-digital sensor chip is devised for potential use as a digital stress analyzer for point-of-care testing (POCT) and preventive on-site recording of the hormone ‘cortisol’, a glucocorticoid class of steroid hormone present in the human saliva.
A diffusion NMR method for the prediction of the weight-average molecular weight of globular proteins in aqueous media of different viscosities
Authors: Arrabal-Campos Francisco M. , Aguilera-Sáez Luis M. , Fernández Ignacio
Published: December 2018

We have introduced for the first time, a non-viscosity dependent universal calibration curve (UCC) for the successful prediction of the weight-average molecular weights of globular proteins in the range of 8.5–66.2 kDa with no dependence on the solvent viscosity.
A one-pot modular assembly strategy for triple-play enhanced cytosolic siRNA delivery
Authors: Xie Daping , Du Junjie , Bao Moxyel , Zhou Anwei , Tian Chunli , Xue Lingjing , Ju Caoyun , Shen Jian , Zhang Can
Published: December 2018

Robust efficiency for cytosolic small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivery is of great importance for effective gene therapy.
A DNA arithmetic logic unit for implementing data backtracking operations
Authors: Zhong Weiye , Tang Weiyang , Tan Yun , Fan Jin , Huang Qichen , Zhou Danli , Hong Weimin , Liu Yizhen
Published: December 2018

A data backtracking operation was successfully realized by adding redundant modules to the circuit, greatly improving the system reliability.
A degradable low molecular weight monomer system with lower critical solution temperature behaviour in water
Authors: Zheng Bo , Luo Zheng , Deng Yan , Zhang Qiao , Gao Lingyan , Dong Shengyi
Published: December 2018

A small molecule system showing LCST was prepared and the degradation of the crown ether motif effectively altered the thermo-responsiveness.
A mono-metallic Pd(ii)-cage featuring two different polar binding sites
Authors: Escobar Luis , Villarón David , Escudero-Adán Eduardo C. , Ballester Pablo
Published: December 2018

A tetra-α super aryl-extended tetra-pyridyl calix[4]pyrrole self-assembles into a mono-Pd(ii) cage featuring two different and converging polar binding sites.
A ring-shaped hemoprotein trimer thermodynamically controlled by the supramolecular heme–heme pocket interaction
Authors: Oohora Koji , Kajihara Ryota , Fujimaki Nishiki , Uchihashi Takayuki , Hayashi Takashi
Published: December 2018

A thermodynamically controlled supramolecular assembling system of cytochrome b562 predominantly forms a ring-shaped trimer in dilute solution.
Effect of protein–protein interactions and solvent viscosity on the rotational diffusion of proteins in crowded environments
Authors: Nawrocki Grzegorz , Karaboga Alp , Sugita Yuji , Feig Michael
Published: December 2018

Slow-down of the rotational diffusion of villin in the presence of villin crowder in close proximity.
Theoretical study on the reaction mechanism of OH radical with Z(E)-CF3CHCHF
Authors: Xu Chao , Wang Chaoyang , Li Bo , Hu Linping , Gu Feng Long
Published: December 2018

The comprehensive transformation mechanism and kinetics of Z(E)-CF3CHCHF initiated by OH radicals were investigated by performing quantum chemical calculations.
Single tungsten atom supported on N-doped graphyne as a high-performance electrocatalyst for nitrogen fixation under ambient conditions
Authors: He Tianwei , Matta Sri Kasi , Du Aijun
Published: December 2018

A promising highly efficient and inexpensive W@N-doped graphyne electrocatalyst for N2 fixation has been predicted by first-principle calculation.
Correction: Comment on “Negative effective Li transference numbers in Li salt/ionic liquid mixtures: does Li drift in the “Wrong” direction?” by M. Gouverneur, F. Schmidt and M. Schönhoff, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, 20, 7470
Authors: Harris Kenneth R.
Published: December 2018

Correction for ‘Comment on “Negative effective Li transference numbers in Li salt/ionic liquid mixtures: does Li drift in the “Wrong” direction?” by M. Gouverneur, F. Schmidt and M. Schönhoff, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, 20, 7470’ by Kenneth R. Harris, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, 20, 30041–30045.
A novel type of organometallic 2-R-2,4-dihydro-1H-3,1-benzoxazine with R = [M(η5-C5H4)(CO)3] (M = Re or Mn) units. Experimental and computational studies of the effect of substituent R on ring-chain tautomerism
Authors: Oyarzo Juan , Bosque Ramón , Toro Patricia , Silva Carlos P. , Arancibia Rodrigo , Font-Bardía Mercè , Artigas Vania , Calvis Carme , Messeguer Ramon , Klahn A. Hugo , López Concepción
Published: December 2018

Novel 2-cyrhetrenyl and cymantrenyl-2,4-dihydro-1H-3,1-benzoxazines.
Role of 2nd sphere H-bonding residues in tuning the kinetics of CO2 reduction to CO by iron porphyrin complexes
Authors: Sen Pritha , Mondal Biswajit , Saha Dibyajyoti , Rana Atanu , Dey Abhishek
Published: December 2018

A series of iron porphyrins that vary only in the distal H-bonding network exhibit turnover frequencies (TOFs) ranging from 1.0 s−1 to 103 s−1.
Benzoic acid as a selector–modulator in the synthesis of MIL-88B(Cr) and nano-MIL-101(Cr)
Authors: Yang Ling , Zhao Tian , Boldog Ishtvan , Janiak Christoph , Yang Xiao-Yu , Li Qiang , Zhou Yan-Jia , Xia Yong , Lai Deng-Wang , Liu Yue-Jun
Published: December 2018

The concentration of benzoic acid was found to exercise efficient control over the formation of either MIL-101(Cr) or MIL-88B(Cr) under otherwise similar hydrothermal synthetic conditions.
Creation of MOFs with open metal sites by partial replacement of metal ions with different coordination numbers
Authors: Harada Yuki , Hijikata Yuh , Kusaka Shinpei , Hori Akihiro , Ma Yunsheng , Matsuda Ryotaro
Published: December 2018

Herein, we developed isostructural metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) [Cu1−xPdx(SiF6)(bpy)2] (bpy: 4,4′-bipyridine) (SIFSIX-1-CuPd-3, -5 and -10) containing open metal sites using a partial metal-replacement approach.
Electronic spectra of ions of astrochemical interest: from fast overview spectra to high resolution
Authors: Roithová Jana , Jašík Juraj , Del Pozo Mellado Jesus J. , Gerlich Dieter
Published: December 2018

Combining He-tagging in a cryotrap with a supercontinuum laser is an efficient way of identifying candidates for DIBs carriers.
Selective formylation or methylation of amines using carbon dioxide catalysed by a rhodium perimidine-based NHC complex
Authors: Lam Raphael H. , McQueen Caitlin M. A. , Pernik Indrek , McBurney Roy T. , Hill Anthony F. , Messerle Barbara A.
Published: December 2018

Selective formylation and methylation of amines using low pressure CO2 as a carbon source; mechanistic studies, time course and reaction scope.
Encapsulation and removal of aniline by di-cyclohexanocucurbit[6]uril
Authors: Zhang Mingli , Shi Hao , Meng Di , Chen Kai , Lin Rui-Lian , Sun Wen-Qi , Liu Jing-Xin
Published: December 2018

The binding behaviors of Cy2Q[6] and Cy6Q[6] with aniline, p-methylaniline, and p-phenyldiamine were investigated by various techniques, which suggests that Cy2Q[6] is a promising candidate for aniline removal because of its oval cavity.
Kinetic, isotherm and mechanism studies of organic dye adsorption on poly(4,4′-oxybisbenzenamine) and copolymer of poly(4,4′-oxybisbenzenamine-pyrrole) macro-nanoparticles synthesized by multifunctional carbon dots
Authors: Maruthapandi Moorthy , Luong John H. T. , Gedanken Aharon
Published: December 2018

The organic dye adsorption on POBBA and COP.
Development of rhodamine-based fluorescent probes for sensitive detection of Fe3+ in water: spectroscopic and computational investigations
Authors: Wu Zi-ying , Xu Zhong-yong , Yan Jin-wu , Li Yafang , Kou Qiuye , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2018

Four novel rhodamine-based fluorescent probes (RE1–RE4) were designed and synthesized for sensitive detection of Fe3+ in water.
Rhodium catalysed enantioselective synthesis of mono-(halo)-methyl-cyclopropanes
Authors: Schlinquer Claire , Huang Wei-Sheng , Chen Ling , Poisson Thomas , Pannecoucke Xavier , Charette André B. , Jubault Philippe
Published: December 2018

The catalytic asymmetric synthesis of mono-fluoro-, -chloro- and -bromomethyl-1,2-diaryl ester cyclopropanes is described.
Fabrication of microporous layer – free hierarchical gas diffusion electrode as a low Pt-loading PEMFC cathode by direct growth of helical carbon nanofibers
Authors: Sandström Robin , Ekspong Joakim , Annamalai Alagappan , Sharifi Tiva , Klechikov Alexey , Wågberg Thomas
Published: December 2018

We show that improved contact between each component in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) lead to improved Pt utilization.
Enantioselective Michael addition of malonates to α,β-unsaturated ketones catalyzed by 1,2-diphenylethanediamine
Authors: Wang Wei , Ye Ling , Shi Zhichuan , Zhao Zhigang , Li Xuefeng
Published: December 2018

1,2-Diphenylethanediamine could be directly utilized to promote the Michael addition of malonates and β-ketoesters to various α,β-unsaturated ketones.
Stability of the V and Co atomic wires: a first-principles study
Authors: Liu Shu-Lan , Wang Bao-Ru , Ma Qing-Min , Xie Zun
Published: December 2018

We employ DFT calculations with the PAW method to investigate the structural stability and electromagnetic characteristics of two infinite atomic wires made of vanadium (V) and cobalt (Co).
Supported binary CuOx–Pt catalysts with high activity and thermal stability for the combustion of NH3 as a carbon-free energy source
Authors: Kiritoshi Saaya , Iwasa Takeshi , Araki Kento , Kawabata Yusuke , Taketsugu Tetsuya , Hinokuma Satoshi , Machida Masato
Published: December 2018

Although NH3 has been thought to be a renewable and carbon-free energy source, the use of NH3 fuel is hindered by its high ignition temperature and N2O/NO production. To overcome these issues, NH3 combustion over CuOx/Pt/Al2O3 catalysts was performed.
Oligosaccharide synthesis on soluble high-molecular weight pHEMA using a photo-cleavable linker
Authors: Vartak Abhishek , Thanna Sandeep , Meyer Kyle , Dermanelian Miranda , Sucheck Steven J.
Published: December 2018

Oligosaccharide synthesis on organic solvent soluble, high molecular weight poly(2-hydroxyethylmethylacrylate) (pHEMA) is described.
Glucuronidation of [6]-shogaol, [8]-shogaol and [10]-shogaol by human tissues and expressed UGT enzymes: identification of UGT2B7 as the major contributor
Authors: He Liangliang , Xu Jinjin , Wang Qi , Zhang Yezi , Qin Zifei , Yu Yang , Qian Zhengming , Yao Zhihong , Yao Xinsheng
Published: December 2018

The glucuronidation pathways of shogaols ([6]-shogaol, [8]-shogaol and [10]-shogaol) were characterized in human tissues and recombinant human UDP-glucosyltransferases, and UGT2B7 was identified as the main contributor to their glucuronidation.
Durable flame retardant polyacrylonitrile fabric via UV-induced grafting polymerization and surface chemical modification
Authors: Ren Yuanlin , Jiang Lina , Tian Tian , Liu Xiaohui , Han Zhenbang
Published: December 2018

A durable flame retardant PAN fabric was prepared via UV-induced grafting polymerization and chemical modification. The flame retardant performance of the fabric was greatly improved.
Adsorption–desorption of CO2 on zeolite-Y-templated carbon at various temperatures
Authors: Gunawan Triyanda , Wijiyanti Rika , Widiastuti Nurul
Published: December 2018

A micro-mesoporous structure of ZTC was synthesized via an impregnation method, and the structure assisted in a faster CO2 adsorption–desorption equilibrium.
Enantioselective Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi allylation-lactonization for the syntheses of 3-substituted phthalides
Authors: Kumbhar Sharad V. , Chen Chinpiao
Published: December 2018

A chromium-catalyzed enantioselective Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi allylation of substituted (2-ethoxycarbonyl)benzaldehydes and subsequent lactonization to synthesize phthalides with an optimal enantioselectivity of 99%.
A molecular density functional theory approach to electron transfer reactions
Authors: Jeanmairet Guillaume , Rotenberg Benjamin , Levesque Maximilien , Borgis Daniel , Salanne Mathieu
Published: December 2018

Molecular density functional theory, an efficient computational tool, provides new insights into the study of electron transfer reactions in bulk and interfacial water.
Direct N–O bond formation via oxidation of amines with benzoyl peroxide
Authors: Banerjee Amit , Yamamoto Hisashi
Published: December 2018

A general, mild and efficient method for direct N–O bond formation starting from commercially available amines, benzoyl peroxide and Cs2CO3 without undesirable C–N bond (amide) formation.
Waterproof architectures through subcomponent self-assembly
Authors: Percástegui Edmundo G. , Mosquera Jesús , Ronson Tanya K. , Plajer Alex J. , Kieffer Marion , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: December 2018

Construction of metal–organic containers that are soluble and stable in water can be challenging – we present diverse strategies that allow the synthesis of kinetically robust water-soluble architectures via subcomponent self-assembly.
An indole-based aerogel for enhanced removal of heavy metals from water via the synergistic effects of complexation and cation–π interactions
Authors: Yang Peng , Yang Li , Wang Yan , Song Lixian , Yang Junxiao , Chang Guanjun
Published: December 2018

A novel indole-based aerogel (4-HIFA) has been obtained by the condensation of 4-hydroxyindole and formaldehyde via sol–gel technology, which proceeds easily by acid catalysis in one pot.
Self-healing and superwettable nanofibrous membranes for efficient separation of oil-in-water emulsions
Authors: Cai Yahui , Chen Dongyun , Li Najun , Xu Qingfeng , Li Hua , He Jinghui , Lu Jianmei
Published: December 2018

The development of a practical and efficient separation membrane is significant for the purification of emulsified oily wastewater; however, circumventing certain critical limitations such as low flux, membrane fouling and poor durability remains a challenge.
Vanadium dioxide–reduced graphene oxide binary host as an efficient polysulfide plague for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Li Sha , Cen Yuan , Xiang Qin , Aslam Muhammad Kashif , Hu Bingbing , Li Wei , Tang Ya , Yu Qi , Liu Yuping , Chen Changguo
Published: December 2018

Lithium–sulfur batteries are strongly expected to be the next-generation energy storage technology due to their superior theoretical specific capacity and energy density.
Nickel nanoparticles individually encapsulated in densified ceramic shells for thermally stable solar energy absorption
Authors: Ding Dawei , Liu Kai , Fan Qikui , Dong Bitao , Zhang Yang , Yin Yadong , Gao Chuanbo , Ding Shujiang
Published: December 2018

Encapsulation of nickel nanoparticles in densified silica nanoshells enhances the thermal stability of spectrally selective absorbers for high-temperature solar-thermal conversion systems.
Self-templated synthesis of hierarchical mesoporous SnO2 nanosheets for selective CO2 reduction
Authors: Han Na , Wang Yeyun , Deng Jun , Zhou Junhua , Wu Yunling , Yang Hui , Ding Pan , Li Yanguang
Published: December 2018

Mesoporous SnO2 nanosheets from the self-templated synthesis enables active and selective CO2 reduction to formate.
A synergistic antibacterial effect between terbium ions and reduced graphene oxide in a poly(vinyl alcohol)–alginate hydrogel for treating infected chronic wounds
Authors: Wang Yanan , Lu Yuhui , Zhang Jieyu , Hu Xuefeng , Yang Zeyu , Guo Yi , Wang Yunbing
Published: December 2018

A graphene and rare earth ion-containing hydrogel was developed to effectively promote the healing of infected chronic wounds without using antibiotics.
Dual-template cascade synthesis of highly multi-branched Au nanoshells with ultrastrong NIR absorption and efficient photothermal therapeutic intervention
Authors: Bian Kexin , Zhang Xuwu , Yang Mengxue , Luo Liyao , Li Lei , He Yuchu , Cong Cong , Li Xiaoling , Zhu Ruiyan , Gao Dawei
Published: December 2018

A universal dual-template cascade strategy for the synthesis of multi-branched gold nanoshells with ultrastrong NIR absorption for tumor photothermal therapy.
An inversion of magnetic field effects in electromer-based organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Yuan Peisen , Qiao Xianfeng , Yan Donghang , Ma Dongge
Published: December 2018

We investigate the magneto-conductance and magneto-electroluminescence effects in 4,4′-(cyclohexane-1,1-diyl)bis(N,N-di-p-tolylaniline) (TAPC)-based OLEDs.
Superconductivity and structural instability in layered BiS2-based LaO1−xBiS2
Authors: Chen Yongliang , Cui Yajing , Pham Anh , Wang Yu , Bhadbhade Mohan M. , Wang Ruilong , Su Yufeng , Hu Hailong , Wen Zhiwei , Cheng Cuihua , Tan Thiam Teck , Li Sean , Zhao Yong
Published: December 2018

A new BiS2-based superconductor was synthesized and its crystal structure was investigated.
miR-125 regulates PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in rheumatoid arthritis rats via PARP2
Authors: Liu Kai , Zhang Yingang , Liu Liang , Yuan Qiling
Published: December 2018

The present study aimed to explore miR-125 effects on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) development to provide a potential target for RA. Briefly, rat RA model was established (Model group) by injection of Freund’s Complete Adjuvant into the left hind toe. Normal rats injected with saline in the same location were set as Normal group. All rats’ secondary foot swelling degree, polyarthritis index score, spleen and thymus index were measured. Synovial tissues were subjected to Hematoxylin–Eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry. Synovial cells of each group were isolated and named as Normal-C group and Model-C group, respectively. Synovial cells of Model-C group further underwent cotransfection with miR-125 mimics and PARP2-siRNA (mimics+siPARP2 group) or with miR-125 negative control (NC) and PARP2-siRNA NC (NC group). Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot, luciferase reporter assay, ELISA, and MTT assay were performed. As a result, compared with Normal group, rats of Model group showed significantly higher secondary foot swelling degree, polyarthritis index score, spleen and thymus index (P<0.01). Down-regulated miR-125 and up-regulated PARP2 was found in synovial tissues of Model group when compared with Normal group (P<0.01). Synovial tissues of Model-C group exhibited severe hyperplasia and inflammatory cell infiltration. Luciferase reporter assay indicated that PARP2 was directly inhibited by miR-125. Compared with NC group, cells of mimics+siPARP2 group had significantly lower IL-1β, MMP-1 and TIMP-1 levels, absorbance value, and p-PI3K, p-Akt and p-mTOR relative expression (P<0.01 or P<0.05). Thus, miR-125 might attenuate RA development by regulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway via directly inhibiting PARP2 expression.
Image set compression for similar images with priorities
Authors: Sha Lina , Wu Wei , Li Bingbing
Published: December 2018

This Letter first proposes an algorithm for compressing the sets of the similar images with priorities. The proposed algorithm includes four modules, i.e. priority assigned, depth‐ and priority‐constrained minimum arborescence generation, disparity reduction, and residue coding. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can effectively compress the similar images with priorities, and achieves similar rate‐distortion performance to the state‐of‐the‐art image set compression algorithm which has no constraints of depth and priority.
Pricing user scheduling and precoding in relay‐assisted massive MIMO systems
Authors: Chen Xiang , Gong Feng‐Kui , Zhang Hang , Li Guo
Published: December 2018

A downlink user scheduling algorithm based on the pricing scheduling factor is proposed for the established relay‐assisted massive multiple input multiple output (MIMO) model, which represents the typical remote cell with multiple relays and a massive MIMO base station. Different from the traditional scheduling algorithms, the authors' proposed scheduling algorithm simultaneously takes account of the strength of the desired signal and interference, in which the proposed scheduling factor takes interference strength as the price to select appropriate users. An analysis on the optimal precoding vector is given by assuming each relay adopts equal gain transmission (EGT). According to the analysis, a non‐cooperative solution based on the phase difference of EGT is proposed to search the optimal transmission direction of EGT with low complexity. An analytical upper bound of system sum rate is also obtained. Simulation results indicate that the proposed scheduling algorithm has excellent sum rate performance and slight rate degradation compared with the brute‐force search algorithm.
Sensitivity‐based optimal reliability design of AC/UHVDC systems
Authors: Wu Zhengyang , Li Shenghu , Zhang Hao , Jiang Yitian , Li Zhuopeng
Published: December 2018

In this study, a sensitivity‐based optimal reliability design (ORD) model of the AC/UHVDC (ultra‐high‐voltage DC) system is proposed. The model can be used to adjust the reliability parameters of the replaceable AC equipments and UHVDC components to satisfy the pre‐specified system reliability while minimising the total cost. The corresponding sensitivities provide references to identify the non‐coherency equipments and to adjust the reliability parameters while avoiding the repeated calculation of the system reliability. To realise the proposed ORD model, the optimal power flow model considering the unbalanced operation mode of the UHVDC is proposed, and the incremental transition rate of the UHVDC is derived, thus to quantify the system reliability indices. Combined with the sensitivity model of the UHVDC itself, the state probability is used to connect the reliability indices at the system level and the UHVDC components’ parameters, obtaining a direct solution of the corresponding sensitivities. The numerical results based on the modified IEEE reliability test system (RTS) test system are provided to validate the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed models.
Decentralised optimal vehicle‐to‐grid coordination with forecast errors
Authors: Zou Suli , Ma Zhongjing , Yang Nan
Published: December 2018

Considering vehicle‐to‐grid (V2G) coordination schemes, plug‐in electric vehicles (PEVs) are expected to be an energy storage system (ESS) to smooth out the fluctuation of the intermittent renewable energy source (RES) and the power load profile. In this study, firstly the optimal coordination of PEVs minimising total costs is shown to possess the valley‐fill and peak‐shift property for any pair of adjacent instants. Due to the decoupling relationship among the admissible sets of coordination behaviours of all the PEVs in the modelling issue, a decentralised algorithm is proposed by applying the gradient projection method, such that the coordination behaviours of individual PEVs can be updated locally and simultaneously. It is proved that the convergence and optimality of the proposed method are guaranteed in case the step‐size parameter of the update procedure is in a certain region, and its performance does not rely on the shape of the net demand trajectory. Furthermore, a receding horizon‐based algorithm is presented to account for the forecast errors occurred in the predictions of PEV populations, RES productions and inelastic load profiles. The results developed in this study are demonstrated with numerical simulations and comparisons with other decentralised methods are also provided.
Integer quadratic programming model for dynamic VAR compensation considering short‐term voltage stability
Authors: Wu Liang , Guan Lin
Published: December 2018

Dynamic VAR compensation (DVC) planning is important in power system planning to enhance short‐term voltage stability. However, since its optimisations models include differential algebraic equations (DAEs), existing methods cannot directly solve the problem as that in the optimal power flow problem. In this study, the authors design an integer quadratic programming (IQP) model for the DVC planning problem which can simultaneously optimise the sites and size of DVCs. On the basis of the defined dynamic correlation indices, a quadratic programming objective function is defined to minimise the total investment of DVCs as well as to avoid redundant installation of DVCs on adjacent buses. Subsequently, sensitivity coefficients about the control effect of DVCs are introduced to form the linear inequations as the substitute for DAEs in constraints. Then, an iterative process is applied to solve the IQP. The proposed method is applied on a modified NE 39‐bus system and a real power grid. Comparisons to the existing methods are carried out to show its superiority in model complexity and solving efficiency.
High‐voltage pulse generator based on sequentially charged MMC‐SMs operating in a voltage‐boost mode
Authors: Elgenedy Mohamed A. , Darwish Ahmed , Ahmed Shehab , Williams Barry W. , McDonald Jim R.
Published: December 2018

Pulse forming networks and Marx generators are the classical rectangular waveform pulse generators (PGs). They are inflexible and their capacitors must be fully charged to the required voltage from 0 V before delivering each high‐voltage (HV) pulse. They are only able to generate unipolar pulses; if bipolar pulses are sought another generator fed from a negative supply voltage is added. Recently, several power electronics based PGs have been proposed. This study presents an HV power electronics based PG, which is based on half‐bridge modular multilevel converter (MMC) sub‐modules (SMs) charged sequentially in a voltage‐boost mode. Each SM capacitor and main switch form a boost converter with the charging input supply and inductor. As a result, all SM capacitors are charged to a voltage greater than the input. During the discharging process, the SM capacitors are connected in series, producing a rectangular HV pulse across the load. The proposed charging method allows a reduction in the converter footprint in comparison with recently proposed MMC sequentially charged PG topologies. Although only rectangular pulse waveforms are sought in this study, an SM‐capacitor voltage balance method allows multilevel pulse generation. The viability of the proposed converter is confirmed by MATLAB/Simulink simulation and scaled‐down experimentation.
Reliability and energy sharing analysis of a fault‐tolerant multilevel inverter topology
Authors: Jalhotra Manik , Sahu Lalit Kumar , Gautam Shivam Prakash , Gupta Shubhrata
Published: December 2018

Photovoltaic (PV) systems, especially which are installed in the remote areas, stand in need for a highly reliable system. A high failure rate of the semiconductor switches and capacitors yields a very low reliability of the inverters used in the PV system. Conventional two‐level inverters are replaced by multilevel inverters (MLIs) to effectively improve the output quality waveform. However, MLIs incorporate a high device count in their architecture which further impairs the reliability of the PV system. Recent research has focused on developing fault‐tolerant MLI topologies with reduced device count. However, the number of active devices and power losses, factors which are many of the times overlooked, are key in determining the reliability of the inverter. Here, the reliability of a novel fault‐tolerant MLI topology is evaluated bearing in mind the effect of power losses on the junction temperature. Equal (or best) voltage source utilisation characteristics help in maintaining the uniform charge of the batteries. The concept of reliability is evaluated mathematically. The fault tolerance and even source utilisation of the proposed topology is verified through the obtained experimental results.
Stator current harmonic elimination control for the high‐power synchronous motors with online implementation
Authors: Yuan Qingqing , Qian Jinyue , Wu Haodong , Yin Wenqian , Jiang Quan
Published: December 2018

In order to reduce the switching losses and improve the converter efficiency, the switching frequency of the semiconductor devices is usually kept low. However, the low switching frequency operation could lead to a severe harmonic distortion in the stator current and an undesirable modulation delay, which also affect the current control performance. Here, a stator current harmonic elimination control scheme has been studied for the electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM). First, extracting the stator current amplitudes of the fundamental and harmonic components by the sliding discrete Fourier transform (SDFT) algorithm. Then, these obtained current amplitudes will be taken as a part of the cost function for the current model predictive control strategy along with the switching losses and neutral point potential issues. For the further algorithm simplification and performance improvement, a reduced‐order processing has been also introduced to realise a simple digital implementation. Finally, simulation and experiments demonstrate that this kind of stator current control could realise a similar characteristic with the selective harmonic elimination along with an online implementation and nice dynamic performance.
Multi‐DFIG aggregated model based SSR analysis considering wind spatial distribution
Authors: Ma Junjie , Liu Fang , Jiang Lin , Wu Min , Li Yong , Wang Weiyu
Published: December 2018

This study investigates the impact of wind spatial distribution on sub‐synchronous resonance (SSR), considering wind speed difference and wind turbine division. For a doubly‐fed induction generator (DFIG) wind farm, two equivalent aggregated models, i.e. a one‐DFIG model and a multi‐DFIG model, are established and both simplified to impedance model for investigation. In one‐DFIG model, the SSR mechanism in DFIG wind farm, and the impact of wind speed on SSR are discussed. The concept of damping is introduced to explain how DFIG SSR current changes under the negative resistance of wind farm. Then, in multi‐DFIG model, DFIGs are divided into different groups based on their wind speed, and the interaction between DFIG groups is investigated. Simulations are used to validate the proposed analysis, and the results show that, multi‐DFIG model performances a higher accuracy when dealing with DFIG wind spatial distribution problems compared with one‐DFIG model.
Interval based robust chance constrained allocation of demand response programs in wind integrated power systems
Authors: Nikoobakht Ahmad , Aghaei Jamshid , Shafie‐khah Miadreza , Catalão João P.S.
Published: December 2018

This study presents an interval based robust chance constrained (IBRCC) optimisation model for allocating demand response program to effective buses of the power systems considering wind uncertainty and equipment failures. In the proposed formulation, an interval based robust approach is applied to evaluate the highest uncertainty spectrum of the wind power generation that the power system can tolerate. Accordingly, to cope with the uncertainty sources, chance‐based constraints are implemented. In the proposed IBRCC optimisation framework, the level of the optimal solution robustness is probabilistically maximised subject to a set of operational constraints. Besides, to facilitate the massive integration of uncertain wind generation and to mitigate congestion in the transmission grid, an efficient allocation, and scheduling scheme of demand response programs is proposed. The proposed model is evaluated on the IEEE 24 bus system.
Experimental and simulation study on space charge characteristics of epoxy resin filled with graphene oxide
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Chen George , Zhang Hongliang , Yan Jiaqi , Liu Peng , Peng Zongren
Published: December 2018

Graphene has attracted much attention due to its advanced properties. In previous work, the relationship between temperature and the conductivity of epoxy‐based nanocomposite filled with graphene oxide has been experimentally studied. To understand the charge transport behaviour, the space charge characteristics at different temperatures and field strengths are measured with an improved pulsed electroacoustic measurement system, which is designed for high‐temperature space charge measurement. From the measurement results, epoxy resin (ER) filled with multi‐layer graphene oxide (MGO/ER) shows suppressed charge migration while ER filled with single‐layer graphene oxide (SGO/ER) shows a hetero charge accumulation, which is assumed to be caused by the partial reduction of graphene oxide to graphene. Compared to pure ER, the apparent mobility of the nanocomposites is smaller while the trap depth and number of trapped charges are larger, which is probably caused by the introduction of traps. In the simulation, the relationship between mobility, trap depth, trap density and charge distribution are firstly studied. Then the calculated values of mobility and trap depth are given to the parameters to compare the simulated charge profiles with experiment results. The simulation results agree well qualitatively with the experimental results, giving some support for the proposed explanations.
A dynamical study of the Gefion asteroid family
Authors: Aljbaae S. , Souchay J. , Prado A. F. B. A. , Chanut T. G. G.
Published: December 2018

The Gefion asteroid family is a group of S-type asteroids located between the 8J:-3A and 5J:-2A mean-motion resonances. The 5J:-2A resonance seems to be responsible for the absence of the right side of the V-shape of this family. We aim in this work to present a detailed study on the Gefion family, motivated by the incompatibility found in previous family age estimations and the fact that this family could be seen as one of the most probable sources of L-chondrite meteorites. After eliminating all possible taxonomical and dynamical interlopers, we use a Monte Carlo method to analyze the semi-major axis evolution of several fictitious families under the influence of the Yarkovsky and Yarkovsky-O’Keefe-Radzievsky-Paddack (YORP) effects. We also perform simulations using symplectic integrators to account for the Yarkovsky effect (diurnal and seasonal versions) and the stochastic YORP effect. We make use of the distribution of the component of the ejection velocity field (vW) perpendicular to the orbital plane and the time dependence of the asymmetry of the distribution of the target function of a fictitious family generated with ejection velocity parameter 20+55−15m s−1to obtain an age estimate of 1030+19−67Myr. We find that 6.5% of asteroids from the Gefion family can reach orbits similar to particles in the current near-Earth objects space; 73% of them are among the Amors asteroids, and the remaining ones are among the Apollos. We only found 0.5% from the Gefion family reaching the Mars-crossing space.
Economic and environmental feasibility study of water hyacinth briquette in Cirata Reservoir
Authors: Akbari Tauny
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the economic and environmental feasibility of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) briquette. The economic feasibility was determined by the BCR, NPV, Payback Period, and BEP value. While the environmental feasibility was determined by the potential of water hyacinth briquette to control water hyacinth in Cirata Reservoir. Briquette A1P3 (the charcoal combinations of rice husk: water hyacinth 1:1 and the percentage of tapioca binder 5%.) was used in this research. The need of water hyacinth briquettes by a satay (tiny grilled chicken) seller and a grilled fish seller is greater than the need of charcoal and coconut shell charcoal. It shows that water hyacinth briquettes have a lower economic value than charcoal and coconut shell charcoal. A project of water hyacinth briquette processing is economically feasible with the assumption that all products sold because of the BCR value (1.1) > 1, and the NPV value (58,390,711) > 0, with Payback Period in 4.6 years and BEP 95,621.5 kg in 5 years. The use of water hyacinth briquettes by a satay and grilled fish trader at 20,949 kg briquettes/year has the potential to control water hyacinth in Cirata Reservoir of 0.02% per year.
The hotel’s responsibilities in actualizing environtmental justice: the study of CSR practice on 5-star hotel environmental conservation
Authors: Sumarsono Dicky , Sudardi Bani , Warto Warto , Abdullah Wakit
Published: December 2018

The activity of a company can create jobs, generate products, and encourage the economic growth. However in the other hand, it inflicts social problem and disruption of the environmental conservation. Hotel is built using material from selected natural resources. However, it reduces the beauty and the balance of other natural resources. Thus, the hotel has asocial responsibility to preserve the environment and to embody the social justice in the hospitality business. The stakeholder theory states that a company is not an entity that only operates for its own sake, but also has to provide benefits for its stakeholder. The social responsibility in the environmental justice of the hospitality industry in Surakarta city is directed at; (1) Community empowerment rather than environmental preservation, this is intended to branding the hotel companies, (2) The implementation of CSR activities as a manifestation of the environmental justice is carried out by hotel’s public relation itself rather than by the third parties, (3) The average of social responsibility nominal exceeds 2,5% of the statutory obligation because at the same time, the social responsibility is used for the development of the company’s image.
Economic inclusion of un-bankable micro-scale traders in Indonesian traditional market: learning from micro-scale traders in Islamic financial co-operative
Authors: Prasetyo Iwan , Dwianto Raphaella Dewantari
Published: December 2018

Central Bank in Indonesia has launched an inclusive economy strategy, whose aim includes people of low income and micro-scale business owner. Micro-scale traders in rural traditional market in Indonesia in general face the challenge of limited access to formal financial institution, since they are considered un-bankable. The difficulty of accessing capital from banking financial institutions becomes an obstacle to increasing the scale of their business. The situation often causes market micro-scale traders to fall into the practice of loan sharks. As an alternative, traditional market traders turn to Islamic microfinance co-op. This paper studies the case of micro-scale traders in a rural are in Central Java, in their relationship with a local Islamic Financial Cooperative (Syariah Baitul Maal Wat Tamwil) that provides financial products/services. Using qualitative approach, the findings field research conducted from 2016 until 2018 points out to the success of Islamic Financial Coop as an inclusive financial institution for the local micro-scale traders, which supports promotion of sustained economic growth and productivity, despite (or, because of) its traditional way of trust-building.
Analysis of marine and coastal resources sustainability in Benoa coastal bay reclamation site, Bali
Authors: Handadari Asri Setianingrum Kenyo , Pranowo Widodo Setiyo
Published: December 2018

There are more than 40 reclamation cases in Indonesia during these 10 years. The classical purpose of reclamation addressed for increasing the benefit of natural resources and community welfare, but in fact in some cases it contributes the environmental problem and social conflict. Benoa coastal bay is one of the proposed to be reclaimed by private sector and had declined by most local people. The aims of this research are analyzing the sustainability of marine and coastal resources in Benoa coastal bay reclamation site based on environmental dimension. This research is conducted using quantitative multi-dimensional scaling (MDS) approach for assessing the sustainability of marine and coastal resources. The assessment result shows that the reclamation will made the environmental less sustainability (49,88% out of 100%). Further consideration is needed if the reclamation is still planning to be implemented in Benoa coastal bay.
Fish assemblage structure in relation to seagrass bed in Tidung Kecil Island, Kepulauan Seribu
Authors: Hidayati Nurul , Suparmoko M.
Published: December 2018

Seagrass provides many ecosystem services that are of beneficial to humans, including its role as a nursery ground for some commercial fishes. This ecosystem role depends on the structural complexity of seagrass beds. Yet few studies in Indonesia sought to associate seagrass with fish. The aim of this paper is to determine fish community response to different seagrass bed density. This study was carried out in the coastal waters of Tidung Kecil Island, Kepulauan Seribu. The fish observation was conducted using underwater visual census in stationary point count. The result showed that there were 21 species and S. canaliculatus was dominantly found. Fish abundance and fish community diversity index were found to be higher in seagrass beds with high densities compared to the seagrass beds with low density. The results of this study underline seagrass density can impact upon associated fish. This study provides the contribution of seagrass for coastal fisheries as a nursery ground. It is a way to promote the seagrass ecosystem to the society, therefore it can be considered into coastal policy.
Spatio-temporal pattern of seagrass distribution and the relation with human activities in Banten Bay
Authors: Daud Muhammad , Pin Tjiong Giok , Handayani Tuty
Published: December 2018

Seagrass meadows are important ecosystem due to their structural and functions role as a place for various nutrient cycles, feeding area, and breeding for a variety of marine species. Increased human activity in the form of shipping, sand mining, reclamation, and the development of tourism sector is reported causing disturbed seagrass condition. Therefore, spasio-temporal monitoring of the seagrass condition is important to understand the relationship between the seagrass condition and the stresses from human activity. This research was conducted to analyze the change of seagrass distribution in Banten Bay and its relation with human activity using multi temporal Landsat data from 2008 to 2018. Landsat data is processed using Depth Invariant Index method and classified using Maximum Likelihood with field data. The results of this study indicate a reduction of 74,28 ha seagrass area in the Banten Bay from 2008 to 2018 due to increased human activity.