bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Structured and Directional Residuals for Fault Detection and Isolation on Permanent‐Magnet DC Motor with Amplifier
Authors: Antic Sanja , Djurovic Zeljko , Kvascev Goran
Published: February 2016

Sensors and actuators are physical components often subjected to non‐permissible or unexpected deviations from nominal operating conditions. This paper discusses the application of additive fault detection and isolation (FDI) methods developed for linear and stationary systems on a nonlinear non‐stationary system consisting of an electronic amplifier with a DC motor. A temperature‐dependent viscous friction coefficient, as well as the non‐linearity induced by dry friction, makes the system nonlinear. Residuals were designed using two fundamental residual‐enhancement approaches: synthesis of structured residuals and synthesis of directional residuals. A comparative analysis of the results was performed applying four different techniques for residual transformation synthesis. The paper proposes suitable filtering and translation of the structured and directional residuals that enhance FDI, performance. A limiting factor in the application of directional residuals, relating to the number of different faults, which may have independent directions during FDI, is illustrated. The entire procedure is demonstrated on a simple model of a permanent‐magnet DC motor with a suitable amplifier. This laboratory system is often encountered in electrical engineering laboratories, and accordingly, the results can be used as useful educational material for student training in FDI. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An efficient multi‐gateway‐based three‐factor user authentication and key agreement scheme in hierarchical wireless sensor networks
Authors: Das Ashok Kumar , Sutrala Anil Kumar , Kumari Saru , Odelu Vanga , Wazid Mohammad , Li Xiong
Published: February 2016

User authentication in wireless sensor network (WSN) plays a very important role in which a legal registered user is allowed to access the real‐time sensing information from the sensor nodes inside WSN. To allow such access, a user needs to be authenticated by the accessed sensor nodes as well as gateway nodes inside WSNs. Because of resource limitations and vulnerability to physical capture of some sensor nodes by an attacker, design of a secure user authentication in WSN continues to be an important and challenging research area in recent years. In this paper, we propose a new three‐factor user authentication scheme based on the multi‐gateway WSN architecture. Through the widely‐accepted Burrows–Abadi–Needham logic, we prove that our scheme provides the secure mutual authentication. We then present the formal security verification of our proposed scheme using AVISPA tool, which is a powerful validation tool for network security applications, and show that our scheme is secure. In addition, the rigorous informal security analysis shows that our scheme is also secure against possible other known attacks including the sensor node capture attack. Furthermore, we present the additional functionality features that our scheme offers, which are efficient in communication and computation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonparametric estimation of the rediscovery rate
Authors: Lee Donghwan , Ganna Andrea , Pawitan Yudi , Lee Woojoo
Published: February 2016

Validation studies have been used to increase the reliability of the statistical conclusions for scientific discoveries; such studies improve the reproducibility of the findings and reduce the possibility of false positives. Here, one of the important roles of statistics is to quantify reproducibility rigorously. Two concepts were recently defined for this purpose: (i) rediscovery rate (RDR), which is the expected proportion of statistically significant findings in a study that can be replicated in the validation study and (ii) false discovery rate in the validation study (vFDR). In this paper, we aim to develop a nonparametric approach to estimate the RDR and vFDR and show an explicit link between the RDR and the FDR. Among other things, the link explains why reproducing statistically significant results even with low FDR level may be difficult. Two metabolomics datasets are considered to illustrate the application of the RDR and vFDR concepts in high‐throughput data analysis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stories of Non‐Becoming: Non‐Issues, Non‐Events and Non‐Identities in Asexual Lives
Authors: Scott Susie , McDonnell Liz , Dawson Matt
Published: February 2016

In contrast to conventional models of positively “becoming” an identity through social interaction, this article explores the inverse, negational process of “non‐becoming,” whereby actors start but do not continue along an identity career trajectory. Through cumulative attrition, interactions and encounters at key moments create an overall pattern of non‐progression. Using asexuality as an example, we identify three main trajectory stages of non‐awareness, communicative negation and non‐consolidation, each involving interactional contingencies. With a wider applicability to other repudiated identities, this model shows how even negational symbolic social objects (non‐issues, non‐events, and non‐identities) are constituted through social interaction.
Synthesis, Structure, and Fluorescent Properties of Lanthanide Complexes Based on 8‐Hydroxyquinoline‐7‐carboxylic Acid
Authors: Sun Changyan , Zhao Peiying , Wei Meiju , Chang Zhidong , Li Wenjun
Published: February 2016

The lanthanide complex [Eu3(8‐HQCA)3(COOH)(OH)2(H2O)3]n·nH2O (8‐HQCA = 8‐hydroxyquinoline‐7‐carboxylic acid) was synthesized and characterized. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction shows that the trinuclear structures are linked by ligands to form 2D layers. The results of DFT calculation shows that energy can be transferred effectively from the ligand to EuIIIions. A series of heteronuclear complexes {[(Eu1–xYx)3(8‐HQCA)3(COOH) (OH)2(H2O)3]n·nH2O (x= 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8)} were synthesized and their luminescent properties were studied. The results showed that the doping of YIIIions could change the fluorescent intensity of the EuIIIcomplex, but could not change their positions.
Surface Parameters and Biological Activity of N‐(3‐(Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonio) Propyl) Alkanamide Chloride Cationic Surfactants
Authors: Shaban Samy M. , Aiad Ismail , Ismail Abdallah R.
Published: February 2016

Three cationic surfactants containing amide groups were prepared by quaternization of dimethylaminopropylamine with benzyl chloride. FTIR and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy were used to confirm the chemical structure of the prepared cationic surfactants. The surface parameters were estimated using surface tension measurements at three different temperatures. The prepared cationic surfactant showed a lower CMC than conventional cationic surfactants. Thermodynamic parameters of adsorption and micellization depend mainly of alkyl chain length and temperature. The adsorption process is more favorable than micellization. The biological activity of the three surfactants was estimated using inhibition zone showing that amidoamine cationic surfactants have good activity and the surfactants C12Bn is the most effective one.
Active Polysubstance Abuse Concurrent with Surgery as a Possible Newly Identified Infection Risk Factor in Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Placement Based on a Retrospective Analysis of Health and Socioeconomic Factors
Authors: Balen Alejandra , Gross Martin S. , Phillips Elizabeth A. , Henry Gerard D. , Munarriz Ricardo
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Since the introduction of inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs), risk of infection has decreased. However, concurrent substance abuse has not been investigated in prosthetic urology.

Aims

To determine whether substance abuse would stand out as a relevant risk factor for infection in patients undergoing IPP implantation.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted on charts from the past 12 years at our institution, where a single surgeon completed 602 primary IPP surgeries, with only 12 cases (2%) resulting in postoperative infection. Five of these patients (42%) were actively misusing at least one substance at the time of operation (ie, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, other illicit substances, and prescription narcotics). Substance abuse was identified in the medical chart by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code or by clear documentation by a provider. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the probability of infection as a function of demographic, physical, and treatment variables.

Main Outcome Measures

Logistic regression analysis was used to determine statistically significant correlations between risk factors and IPP infection.

Results

Polysubstance abuse, poorly controlled blood sugar, and homelessness at the time of procedure positively correlated with postoperative infection. Use of the mummy wrap correlated with decreased infection.

Conclusion

Active polysubstance abuse, poor glycemic control, and homelessness increase infection risk at IPP implantation. We encourage other implanters to discuss active polysubstance abuse with their patients and to tread cautiously because of the increased risk of infection.
Fewer Tropical Cyclones Form After Volcanic Eruptions
Authors: Sullivan Cody
Published: February 2016

Volcanic eruptions aren't all bad—in some cases, they can lower the frequency of tropical cyclones in the North Atlantic by emitting sulfate aerosols.
Does El Niño Intensity Affect Precipitation in California?
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: February 2016

Modeling experiments demonstrate that strong El Niños greatly increase odds for wet winters over California's principal watersheds compared to impacts of weak and moderate El Niños.
Attenuation of the programmed cell death-1 pathway increases the M1 polarization of macrophages induced by zymosan
Authors: Chen W , Wang J , Jia L , Liu J , Tian Y
Published: February 2016

Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) is a member of the CD28 superfamily that delivers negative signals on interaction with its 2 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2. We assessed the contribution of the PD-1 pathway to regulating the polarization of macrophages that promote inflammation induced by zymosan. We found that PD-1−/− mice developed robust peritonitis with more abundant infiltration of M1 macrophages, accompanied by higher levels of pro-inflammation factors, especially monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) compared with wild-type controls ex vivo and in vitro. Our results indicated that PD-1 deficiency promotes M1 rather than M2 polarization of macrophages by enhancing the expression of p-STAT1/p-NF-κB p65 and downregulating p-STAT6. We found that PD-1 engagement followed by zymosan stimulation might primarily attenuate the phosphorylation of tyrosine residue in PD-1 receptor/ligand and the recruitment of SHP-2 to PD-1 receptor/ligand, leading to the reduction of M1 type cytokine production.
Chlamydia trachomatis from Australian Aboriginal people with trachoma are polyphyletic composed of multiple distinctive lineages
Authors: Andersson Patiyan , Harris Simon R. , Smith Helena M. B. Seth , Hadfield James , O’Neill Colette , Cutcliffe Lesley T. , Douglas Fiona P. , Asche L. Valerie , Mathews John D. , Hutton Susan I. , Sarovich Derek S. , Tong Steven Y. C. , Clarke Ian N. , Thomson Nicholas R. , Giffard Philip M.
Published: February 2016

Chlamydia trachomatis causes sexually transmitted infections and the blinding disease trachoma. Current data on C. trachomatis phylogeny show that there is only a single trachoma-causing clade, which is distinct from the lineages causing urogenital tract (UGT) and lymphogranuloma venerum diseases. Here we report the whole-genome sequences of ocular C. trachomatis isolates obtained from young children with clinical signs of trachoma in a trachoma endemic region of northern Australia. The isolates form two lineages that fall outside the classical trachoma lineage, instead being placed within UGT clades of the C. trachomatis phylogenetic tree. The Australian trachoma isolates appear to be recombinants with UGT C. trachomatis genome backbones, in which loci that encode immunodominant surface proteins (ompA and pmpEFGH) have been replaced by those characteristic of classical ocular isolates. This suggests that ocular tropism and association with trachoma are functionally associated with some sequence variants of ompA and pmpEFGH.
BTG2 bridges PABPC1 RNA-binding domains and CAF1 deadenylase to control cell proliferation
Authors: Stupfler Benjamin , Birck Catherine , Séraphin Bertrand , Mauxion Fabienne
Published: February 2016

While BTG2 plays an important role in cellular differentiation and cancer, its precise molecular function remains unclear. BTG2 interacts with CAF1 deadenylase through its APRO domain, a defining feature of BTG/Tob factors. Our previous experiments revealed that expression of BTG2 promoted mRNA poly(A) tail shortening through an undefined mechanism. Here we report that the APRO domain of BTG2 interacts directly with the first RRM domain of the poly(A)-binding protein PABPC1. Moreover, PABPC1 RRM and BTG2 APRO domains are sufficient to stimulate CAF1 deadenylase activity in vitro in the absence of other CCR4–NOT complex subunits. Our results unravel thus the mechanism by which BTG2 stimulates mRNA deadenylation, demonstrating its direct role in poly(A) tail length control. Importantly, we also show that the interaction of BTG2 with the first RRM domain of PABPC1 is required for BTG2 to control cell proliferation.
Organic–inorganic supramolecular solid catalyst boosts organic reactions in water
Authors: García-García Pilar , Moreno José María , Díaz Urbano , Bruix Marta , Corma Avelino
Published: February 2016

Coordination polymers and metal-organic frameworks are appealing as synthetic hosts for mediating chemical reactions. Here we report the preparation of a mesoscopic metal-organic structure based on single-layer assembly of aluminium chains and organic alkylaryl spacers. The material markedly accelerates condensation reactions in water in the absence of acid or base catalyst, as well as organocatalytic Michael-type reactions that also show superior enantioselectivity when comparing with the host-free transformation. The mesoscopic phase of the solid allows for easy diffusion of products and the catalytic solid is recycled and reused. Saturation transfer difference and two-dimensional 1H nuclear Overhauser effect NOESY NMR spectroscopy show that non-covalent interactions are operative in these host–guest systems that account for substrate activation. The mesoscopic character of the host, its hydrophobicity and chemical stability in water, launch this material as a highly attractive supramolecular catalyst to facilitate (asymmetric) transformations under more environmentally friendly conditions.
Directed evolution of G protein-coupled receptors in yeast for higher functional production in eukaryotic expression hosts
Authors: Schütz Marco , Schöppe Jendrik , Sedlák Erik , Hillenbrand Matthias , Nagy-Davidescu Gabriela , Ehrenmann Janosch , Klenk Christoph , Egloff Pascal , Kummer Lutz , Plückthun Andreas
Published: February 2016

Despite recent successes, many G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) remained refractory to detailed molecular studies due to insufficient production yields, even in the most sophisticated eukaryotic expression systems. Here we introduce a robust method employing directed evolution of GPCRs in yeast that allows fast and efficient generation of receptor variants which show strongly increased functional production levels in eukaryotic expression hosts. Shown by evolving three different receptors in this study, the method is widely applicable, even for GPCRs which are very difficult to express. The evolved variants showed up to a 26-fold increase of functional production in insect cells compared to the wild-type receptors. Next to the increased production, the obtained variants exhibited improved biophysical properties, while functional properties remained largely unaffected. Thus, the presented method broadens the portfolio of GPCRs accessible for detailed investigations. Interestingly, the functional production of GPCRs in yeast can be further increased by induced host adaptation.
In vivo detection of small tumour lesions by multi-pinhole SPECT applying a 99mTc-labelled nanobody targeting the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Krüwel Thomas , Nevoltris Damien , Bode Julia , Dullin Christian , Baty Daniel , Chames Patrick , Alves Frauke
Published: February 2016

The detection of tumours in an early phase of tumour development in combination with the knowledge of expression of tumour markers such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an important prerequisite for clinical decisions. In this study we applied the anti-EGFR nanobody 99mTc-D10 for visualizing small tumour lesions with volumes below 100 mm3 by targeting EGFR in orthotopic human mammary MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 and subcutaneous human epidermoid A431 carcinoma mouse models. Use of nanobody 99mTc-D10 of a size as small as 15.5 kDa enables detection of tumours by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging already 45 min post intravenous administration with high tumour uptake (>3% ID/g) in small MDA-MB-468 and A431 tumours, with tumour volumes of 52.5 mm3 ± 21.2 and 26.6 mm3 ± 16.7, respectively. Fast blood clearance with a serum half-life of 4.9 min resulted in high in vivo contrast and ex vivo tumour to blood and tissue ratios. In contrast, no accumulation of 99mTc-D10 in MDA-MB-231 tumours characterized by a very low expression of EGFR was observed. Here we present specific and high contrast in vivo visualization of small human tumours overexpressing EGFR by preclinical multi-pinhole SPECT shortly after administration of anti-EGFR nanobody 99mTc-D10.
Pharmacological BACE1 and BACE2 inhibition induces hair depigmentation by inhibiting PMEL17 processing in mice
Authors: Shimshek Derya R. , Jacobson Laura H. , Kolly Carine , Zamurovic Natasa , Balavenkatraman Kamal Kumar , Morawiec Laurent , Kreutzer Robert , Schelle Juliane , Jucker Mathias , Bertschi Barbara , Theil Diethilde , Heier Annabelle , Bigot Karine , Beltz Karen , Machauer Rainer , Brzak Irena , Perrot Ludovic , Neumann Ulf
Published: February 2016

Melanocytes of the hair follicle produce melanin and are essential in determining the differences in hair color. Pigment cell-specific MELanocyte Protein (PMEL17) plays a crucial role in melanogenesis. One of the critical steps is the amyloid-like functional oligomerization of PMEL17. Beta Site APP Cleaving Enzyme-2 (BACE2) and γ-secretase have been shown to be key players in generating the proteolytic fragments of PMEL17. The β-secretase (BACE1) is responsible for the generation of amyloid-β (Aβ) fragments in the brain and is therefore proposed as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Currently BACE1 inhibitors, most of which lack selectivity over BACE2, have demonstrated efficacious reduction of amyloid-β peptides in animals and the CSF of humans. BACE2 knock-out mice have a deficiency in PMEL17 proteolytic processing leading to impaired melanin storage and hair depigmentation. Here, we confirm BACE2-mediated inhibition of PMEL17 proteolytic processing in vitro in mouse and human melanocytes. Furthermore, we show that wildtype as well as bace2+/− and bace2−/− mice treated with a potent dual BACE1/BACE2 inhibitor NB-360 display dose-dependent appearance of irreversibly depigmented hair. Retinal pigmented epithelium showed no morphological changes. Our data demonstrates that BACE2 as well as additional BACE1 inhibition affects melanosome maturation and induces hair depigmentation in mice.
Characterization of triclosan metabolism in Sphingomonas sp. strain YL-JM2C
Authors: Mulla Sikandar I. , Wang Han , Sun Qian , Hu Anyi , Yu Chang-Ping
Published: February 2016

Triclosan (TCS) is one of the most widespread emerging contaminants and has adverse impact on aquatic ecosystem, yet little is known about its complete biodegradation mechanism in bacteria. Sphingomonas sp, strain YL-JM2C, isolated from activated sludge of a wastewater treatment plant, was very effective on degrading TCS. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the conditions like temperature and pH. From RSM, the optimal TCS degradation conditions were found to be 30 °C and pH 7.0. Under optimal conditions, strain YL-JM2C completely mineralized TCS (5 mg L−1) within 72 h. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that 2,4-dichlorophenol, 2-chlorohydroquinone and hydroquinone are three main by-products of TCS. Furthermore, stable isotope experimental results revealed that the 13C12-TCS was completely mineralized into CO2 and part of heavier carbon (13C) of labeled TCS was utilized by strain YL-JM2C to synthesize fatty acids (PLFAs). Cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) and degradation test results suggested that the strain could enhance degradation capacity of TCS through increasing CSH. In addition, the bacterium also completely degraded spiked TCS (5 mg L−1) in wastewater collected from the wastewater treatment plant. Hence, these results suggest that the strain has potential to remediate TCS in the environment.
Molecular Recognition by Templated Folding of an Intrinsically Disordered Protein
Authors: Toto Angelo , Camilloni Carlo , Giri Rajanish , Brunori Maurizio , Vendruscolo Michele , Gianni Stefano
Published: February 2016

Intrinsically disordered proteins often become structured upon interacting with their partners. The mechanism of this ‘folding upon binding’ process, however, has not been fully characterised yet. Here we present a study of the folding of the intrinsically disordered transactivation domain of c-Myb (c-Myb) upon binding its partner KIX. By determining the structure of the folding transition state for the binding of wild-type and three mutational variants of KIX, we found a remarkable plasticity of the folding pathway of c-Myb. To explain this phenomenon, we show that the folding of c-Myb is templated by the structure of KIX. This adaptive folding behaviour, which occurs by heterogeneous nucleation, differs from the robust homogeneous nucleation typically observed for globular proteins. We suggest that this templated folding mechanism may enable intrinsically disordered proteins to achieve specific and reliable binding with multiple partners while avoiding aberrant interactions.
Akermanite bioceramics promote osteogenesis, angiogenesis and suppress osteoclastogenesis for osteoporotic bone regeneration
Authors: Xia Lunguo , Yin Zhilan , Mao Lixia , Wang Xiuhui , Liu Jiaqiang , Jiang Xinquan , Zhang Zhiyuan , Lin Kaili , Chang Jiang , Fang Bing
Published: February 2016

It is a big challenge for bone healing under osteoporotic pathological condition with impaired angiogenesis, osteogenesis and remodeling. In the present study, the effect of Ca, Mg, Si containing akermanite bioceramics (Ca2MgSi2O7) extract on cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and angiogenic factor expression of BMSCs derived from ovariectomized rats (BMSCs-OVX) as well as the expression of osteoclastogenic factors was evaluated. The results showed that akermanite could enhance cell proliferation, ALP activity, expression of Runx2, BMP-2, BSP, OPN, OCN, OPG and angiogenic factors including VEGF and ANG-1. Meanwhile, akermanite could repress expression of osteoclastogenic factors including RANKL and TNF-α. Moreover, akermanite could activate ERK, P38, AKT and STAT3 signaling pathways, while crosstalk among these signaling pathways was evident. More importantly, the effect of akermanite extract on RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis was evaluated by TRAP staining and real-time PCR assay. The results showed that akermanite could suppress osteoclast formation and expression of TRAP, cathepsin K and NFATc1. Thein vivoexperiments revealed that akermanite bioceramics dramatically stimulated osteogenesis and angiogenesis in an OVX rat critical-sized calvarial defect model. All these results suggest that akermanite bioceramics with the effects of Mg and Si ions on osteogenesis, angiogenesis and osteoclastogenesis are promising biomaterials for osteoporotic bone regeneration.
Quantum gates by periodic driving
Authors: Shi Z. C. , Wang W. , Yi X. X.
Published: February 2016

Topological quantum computation has been extensively studied in the past decades due to its robustness against decoherence. One way to realize the topological quantum computation is by adiabatic evolutions—it requires relatively long time to complete a gate, so the speed of quantum computation slows down. In this work, we present a method to realize single qubit quantum gates by periodic driving. Compared to adiabatic evolution, the single qubit gates can be realized at a fixed time much shorter than that by adiabatic evolution. The driving fields can be sinusoidal or square-well field. With the sinusoidal driving field, we derive an expression for the total operation time in the high-frequency limit and an exact analytical expression for the evolution operator without any approximations is given for the square well driving. This study suggests that the period driving could provide us with a new direction in regulations of the operation time in topological quantum computation.
Quantitative imaging of gold nanoparticle distribution in a tumor-bearing mouse using benchtop x-ray fluorescence computed tomography
Authors: Manohar Nivedh , Reynoso Francisco J. , Diagaradjane Parmeswaran , Krishnan Sunil , Cho Sang Hyun
Published: February 2016

X-ray fluorescence computed tomography (XFCT) is a technique that can identify, quantify and locate elements within objects by detecting x-ray fluorescence (characteristic x-rays) stimulated by an excitation source, typically derived from a synchrotron. However, the use of a synchrotron limits practicality and accessibility of XFCT for routine biomedical imaging applications. Therefore, we have developed the ability to perform XFCT on a benchtop setting with ordinary polychromatic x-ray sources. Here, we report our postmortem study that demonstrates the use of benchtop XFCT to accurately image the distribution of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) injected into a tumor-bearing mouse. The distribution of GNPs as determined by benchtop XFCT was validated using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. This investigation shows drastically enhanced sensitivity and specificity of GNP detection and quantification with benchtop XFCT, up to two orders of magnitude better than conventional x-ray CT. The results also reaffirm the unique capabilities of benchtop XFCT for simultaneous determination of the spatial distribution and concentration of nonradioactive metallic probes, such as GNPs, within the context of small animal imaging. Overall, this investigation identifies a clear path toward in vivo molecular imaging using benchtop XFCT techniques in conjunction with GNPs and other metallic probes.
Prevalence of Corneal Astigmatism and Anterior Segmental Biometry Characteristics Before Surgery in Chinese Congenital Cataract Patients
Authors: Lin Duoru , Chen Jingjing , Liu Zhenzhen , Wu Xiaohang , Long Erping , Luo Lixia , Lin Zhuoling , Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Li , Chen Hui , Liu Jinchao , Chen Weirong , Lin Haotian , Liu Yizhi
Published: February 2016

The prevalence and the distribution characteristics of corneal astigmatism (CA) and anterior segment biometry before surgery in Chinese congenital cataract (CC) patients are not completely understood. This study involved 400 CC patients from the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center enrolled from February 2011 to August 2015. Data on CA, keratometry, central corneal thickness (CCT) and anterior chamber depth (ACD) were measured by the Pentacam Scheimpflug System. The mean age of patients was 54.27 months, and the ratio of boys to girls was 1.53:1. The mean CA was 2.03 diopters (D), and 39.25% of subjects had CA values ≥2 D. The most frequent (71.8%) diagnosis was with-the-rule astigmatism. Oblique astigmatism was present in 16.2% of cases, and 12% of cases had against-the-rule astigmatism. The mean keratometry measurement of cataractous eyes in bilateral patients was significantly larger than that in unilateral patients. Girls had a larger mean keratometry but a thinner CCT than did boys. The CA, CCT, and ACD of cataractous eyes were significantly larger than those of non-cataractous eyes in unilateral patients. The CA, mean keratometry, CCT, and ACD in CC patients varied with age, gender, and laterality. Fully understanding these characteristics may help inform guidelines and treatment decisions in CC patients.
Compressive Spectral Method for the Simulation of the Nonlinear Gravity Waves
Authors: Bayındır Cihan
Published: February 2016

In this paper an approach for decreasing the computational effort required for the spectral simulations of the fully nonlinear ocean waves is introduced. The proposed approach utilizes the compressive sampling algorithm and depends on the idea of using a smaller number of spectral components compared to the classical spectral method. After performing the time integration with a smaller number of spectral components and using the compressive sampling technique, it is shown that the ocean wave field can be reconstructed with a significantly better efficiency compared to the classical spectral method. For the sparse ocean wave model in the frequency domain the fully nonlinear ocean waves with Jonswap spectrum is considered. By implementation of a high-order spectral method it is shown that the proposed methodology can simulate the linear and the fully nonlinear ocean waves with negligible difference in the accuracy and with a great efficiency by reducing the computation time significantly especially for large time evolutions.
Fresh-frozen Complete Extensor Mechanism Allograft versus Autograft Reconstruction in Rabbits
Authors: Chen Guanyin , Zhang Hongtao , Ma Qiong , Zhao Jian , Zhang Yinglong , Fan Qingyu , Ma Baoan
Published: February 2016

Different clinical results have been reported in the repair of extensor mechanism disruption using fresh-frozen complete extensor mechanism (CEM) allograft, creating a need for a better understanding of fresh-frozen CME allograft reconstruction. Here, we perform histological and biomechanical analyses of fresh-frozen CEM allograft or autograft reconstruction in an in vivo rabbit model. Our histological results show complete incorporation of the quadriceps tendon into the host tissues, patellar survival and total integration of the allograft tibia, with relatively fewer osteocytes, into the host tibia. Vascularity and cellularity are reduced and delayed in the allograft but exhibit similar distributions to those in the autograft. The infrapatellar fat pad provides the main blood supply and the lowest cellularity is observed in the patellar tendon close to the tibia in both the allograft and autograft. The biomechanical properties of the junction of quadriceps tendon and host tissues and those of the allograft patellar tendon are completely and considerably restored, respectively. Therefore, fresh-frozen CEM allograft reconstruction is viable, but the distal patellar tendon and the tibial block may be the weak links of the reconstruction. These findings provide new insight into the use of allograft in repairing disruption of the extensor mechanism.
Evaluation of Parameters for High Efficiency Transformation of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Yildirim Suleyman , Thompson Mitchell G. , Jacobs Anna C. , Zurawski Daniel V. , Kirkup Benjamin C.
Published: February 2016

Acinetobacter baumannii is an emerging, nosocomial pathogen that is poorly characterized due to a paucity of genetic tools and methods. While whole genome sequence data from several epidemic and environmental strains have recently become available, the functional characterization of genes is significantly lagging. Efficient transformation is one of the first steps to develop molecular tools that can be used to address these shortcomings. Here we report parameters allowing high efficiency transformation of A. baumannii. Using a multi-factorial experimental design we found that growth phase, voltage, and resistance all significantly contribute to transformation efficiency. The highest efficiency (4.3 × 108 Transformants/μg DNA) was obtained at the stationary growth phase of the bacterium (OD 6.0) using 25 ng of plasmid DNA under 100 Ohms resistance and 1.7 kV/cm voltage. The optimized electroporation parameters reported here provide a useful tool for genetic manipulation of A. baumannii.
Elucidation of the surface characteristics and electrochemistry of high-performance LiNiO2
Authors: Xu Jing , Lin Feng , Nordlund Dennis , Crumlin Ethan J. , Wang Feng , Bai Jianming , Doeff Marca M. , Tong Wei
Published: February 2016

Phase pure LiNiO2was prepared using a solid-state method and the optimal synthesis conditions led to a remarkably high capacity of 200 mA h g−1with excellent retention.
Efficient continuous synthesis of high purity deep eutectic solvents by twin screw extrusion
Authors: Crawford D. E. , Wright L. A. , James S. L. , Abbott A. P.
Published: February 2016

Mechanochemical synthesis has been applied to the rapid synthesis of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs), including Reline 200 (choline chloride : urea, 1 : 2), in a continuous flow methodology by Twin Screw Extrusion (TSE).
Lithium ion intercalation of 3-D vertical hierarchical TiO2 nanotubes on a titanium mesh for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Xin Yanmei , Cheng Yuxiao , Zhou Yuyan , Li Zhenzhen , Wu Hongjun , Zhang Zhonghai
Published: February 2016

A lithium ion intercalation strategy is employed for significantly enhancing the photoelectrochemical water splitting performance on 3-dimensional vertical hierarchical top-porous-bottom-tubular TiO2 nanotubes on a fabricable titanium mesh.
New insights into aromatic pathways of carbachlorins and carbaporphyrins based on calculations of magnetically induced current densities
Authors: Benkyi Isaac , Fliegl Heike , Valiev Rashid R. , Sundholm Dage
Published: February 2016

The aromatic pathways of carbaporphyrins and carbachlorins that are based on magnetically induced current density DFT-GIMIC calculations are presented and discussed.
Aromatic character of planar boron-based clusters revisited by ring current calculations
Authors: Pham Hung Tan , Lim Kie Zen , Havenith Remco W. A. , Nguyen Minh Tho
Published: February 2016

The planarity of small boron-based clusters is the result of an interplay between geometry, electron delocalization, covalent bonding and stability.
Spin rectification by orbital polarization in Bi-bilayer nanoribbons
Authors: Jin Kyung-Hwan , Jhi Seung-Hoon
Published: February 2016

We investigate the edge states of quantum spin-Hall phase Bi(111) bilayer nano-ribbons (BNRs) and their spin-rectifying effect using first-principles calculations and the non-equilibrium transport method.
Rationally rewiring the connectivity of the XylR/Pu regulatory node of the m-xylene degradation pathway in Pseudomonas putida
Authors: de las Heras Aitor , Martínez-García Esteban , Domingo-Sananes Maria Rosa , Fraile Sofia , de Lorenzo Víctor
Published: February 2016

Rational rewiring of the components of the sigma-54 dependent promoterPuenables transcriptional output to reach its physiological limit.
Synthesis of novel 2-d carbon materials: sp2carbon nanoribbon packing to form well-defined nanosheets
Authors: Liu Xiaofeng , Fechler Nina , Antonietti Markus , Willinger Marc Georg , Schlögl Robert
Published: February 2016

The conversion of simple glucose in a salt flux results in functional carbon materials which contain larger quantities of N and S as edge termination of nanoribbons, packed to well defined sheets.
Interfacial separation and electrochemical delamination of CVD grown multilayer graphene for recyclable use of Cu powder
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Liu Zhihong , Monne Mahmuda Akter , Wang Shuangyue , Yu Qingkai , Chen Maggie Yihong
Published: February 2016

Graphene flakes (<5 layers) are produced by CVD and electrochemical delamination. Isolated graphite without sintering, cu powder with graphene is separated water.
Microwave assisted non-solvothermal synthesis of metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Blanita Gabriela , Borodi Gheorghe , Lazar Mihaela D. , Biris Alexandru-Radu , Barbu-Tudoran Lucian , Coldea Ioan , Lupu Dan
Published: February 2016

Microwave-assisted non-solvothermal synthesis of HKUST-1.
Transamidation of primary carboxamides, phthalimide, urea and thiourea with amines using Fe(OH)3@Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles as an efficient recyclable catalyst
Authors: Arefi Marzban , Heydari Akbar
Published: February 2016

The highly efficient transamidation of primary amides, phthalimide, urea and thiourea with amines catalyzed by magnetic Fe3O4@Fe(OH)3 nanoparticles is described.
Li4Ti5O12/hollow graphitized nano-carbon composites as anode materials for lithium ion battery
Authors: Fan Liping , Tan Xin , Yu Tao , Shi Zhiqiang
Published: February 2016

Li4Ti5O12/hollow graphitized nano-carbon composites (LTO/HGCs) have been synthesized by a hydrothermal reaction using hollow graphitized nano-carbon as a conductive agent, and the composites were calcined at 750 °C for 12 h.
Cellular uptake and intracellular fate of protein releasing bacterial amyloids in mammalian cells
Authors: Seras-Franzoso Joaquin , Sánchez-Chardi Alejandro , Garcia-Fruitós Elena , Vázquez Esther , Villaverde Antonio
Published: February 2016

Bacterial Inclusion Bodies (IBs) are amyloidal protein deposits that functionally mimic secretory granules from the endocrine system.
Achiral flexible liquid crystal trimers exhibiting chiral conglomerates
Authors: Sasaki Haruna , Takanishi Yoichi , Yamamoto Jun , Yoshizawa Atsushi
Published: February 2016

The liquid crystal trimers form an achiral ground-state conformation in the nematic phase; however, by intermolecular interactions between cores they adopt a twisted chiral conformation to exhibit the spontaneous mirror symmetry breaking in the low-temperature DC phase.
The synthesis of anthradithiophene-based liquid crystals and their applications in organic thin film transistors
Authors: Liau Wei-Lung , Lee Tien-Hsin , Chen Jiun-Tai , Hsu Chain-Shu
Published: February 2016

High mobility organic thin film transistor (OTFT) devices using anthradithiophene-based organic semiconductors have been developed.
Stabilization of plasmon resonance in Cu2−xS semiconductor nanoparticles
Authors: Georgieva Zheni N. , Tomat Marshall A. , Kim Christian , Plass Katherine E.
Published: February 2016

Tetrathiomolybdate prevents the spontaneous and oxygen-induced change in copper vacancy concentration that alters near-IR absorption in copper sulphide nanoparticles.
Dynamic nuclear polarization in a magnetic resonance force microscope experiment
Authors: Issac Corinne E. , Gleave Christine M. , Nasr Paméla T. , Nguyen Hoang L. , Curley Elizabeth A. , Yoder Jonilyn L. , Moore Eric W. , Chen Lei , Marohn John A.
Published: February 2016

Microwave-assisted dynamic nuclear polarization in a magnetic field gradient using magnetic resonance force microscopy.
Relaxation behavior of shear-induced crystallization precursors in isotactic polypropylene containing sorbitol-based nucleating agents with different nucleating abilities
Authors: Fan Jiashu , Zhang Qinglong , Hu Dingding , Ren Qilin , Feng Jiachun
Published: February 2016

Sorbitol-based nucleators could stabilize the shear-induced crystallization precursors in iPP and the stabilization effect increased with their nucleating ability.
Local electric fields and molecular properties in heterogeneous environments through polarizable embedding
Authors: List Nanna Holmgaard , Jensen Hans Jørgen Aagaard , Kongsted Jacob
Published: February 2016

Effective external field effects in spectroscopies of molecules in heterogeneous environments,i.e., the implications of the additional environment polarization induced by the probing electromagnetic field, can be significant and depart remarkably from the simple Onsager picture.
Neutral copper(i) complexes featuring phosphinesulfonate chelates
Authors: Vazart F. , Savel P. , Latouche C. , Barone V. , Camerel F. , Roisnel T. , Fillaut J.-L. , Akdas-Kilig H. , Achard M.
Published: February 2016

The reaction of diphenylphosphinobenzenesulfonic acid with copper(i) oxide resulted in the formation of the new neutral dimeric copper(i) complex {Cu2(DPPBS)2·(MeOH)2}.
A green and efficient approach to selective conversion of xylose and biomass hemicellulose into furfural in aqueous media using high-pressure CO2 as a sustainable catalyst
Authors: Morais Ana Rita C. , Matuchaki Maria Daniela D. J. , Andreaus Jürgen , Bogel-Lukasik Rafal
Published: February 2016

A novel approach to produce furfural from lignocellulosic biomass with green solvents without the use of mineral acids or heterogeneous catalysts.
Well-defined gold nanoparticle@N-doped porous carbon prepared from metal nanoparticle@metal–organic frameworks for electrochemical sensing of hydrazine
Authors: Yang Juan , Zhao Faqiong , Zeng Baizhao
Published: February 2016

Schematic diagram of the preparation of Au@NPC and its application to the determination of hydrazine.
Moisture induced isotopic carbon dioxide trapping from ambient air
Authors: Das Sankar , Ghosh Chiranjit , Jana Subhra
Published: February 2016

Clay based solid adsorbents comprised of several viable amines have been developed to capture isotopic CO2 from the ambient air, keeping an eye on the moisture induced CO2 adsorption.
A switchable peroxidase mimic derived from the reversible co-assembly of cytochrome c and carbon dots
Authors: Essner Jeremy B. , McCay Richard N. , Smith II Chip J. , Cobb Stephen M. , Laber Charles H. , Baker Gary A.
Published: February 2016

We describe a straightforward tactic to boost the inherently low peroxidase-like activity of the heme-protein equine cytochrome c following its electrostatic assembly onto the carbon nanodot surface.
Intellectual property core protection of control data flow graphs using robust watermarking during behavioural synthesis based on user resource constraint and loop unrolling factor
Authors: Sengupta A. , Bhadauria S.
Published: February 2016

A novel robust watermarking methodology for intellectual property core protection of control data flow graphs during behavioural synthesis based on user specified resource constraints and loop unrolling factor is proposed. The proposed methodology incorporates robust multi‐variable signature encoding scheme for securing against typical attacks such as false claim of ownership and tampering. Some of the features of the watermarking include greater robustness, lower embedding cost, lower storage overhead, fault tolerance and faster encoding/decoding. Experimental results suggest that the watermarked solution generated by the proposed approach produces lower embedding cost than previous approaches, as well as is more secured due to its multi‐variable signature encoding rules.
Carrier synchronisation for multiband RF interconnect (MRFI) to facilitate chip‐to‐chip wireline communication
Authors: Li Y. , Cho W.‐H. , Du Y. , Du J. , Huang P.‐T. , Lee S.J. , Chang M.‐C.F.
Published: February 2016

A hardware‐efficient carrier synchronisation technique for multiband RF interconnect system is proposed. This method takes full advantage of the wireline channel's quasi‐invariant nature for achieving both energy/cost‐efficient system designs. For instance, now easily decouple quadrature signals’ phase and magnitude errors by using 1‐bit analogue‐to‐digital converter (ADC), which saves substantial power and area than that of conventional methods where the ADC with high‐speed/resolution is necessary. Furthermore, the algorithm can be carried out by using a simple finite‐state machine and no baseband processor is required. Simulation and measurement results show that quasi‐ideal carrier synchronisation can be achieved with the proposed method.
Adaptive recursive inverse‐based control algorithm for shunt active power filter
Authors: Badoni Manoj , Singh Alka , Singh Bhim
Published: February 2016

A new adaptive control technique is proposed for a three‐phase shunt active power filter (SAPF) in this study. The proposed control algorithm is based on recursive inverse theory which is used here to extract weighted values corresponding to fundamental active and reactive power components of load currents. This adaptive control algorithm possesses advantages over other control algorithms in terms of its reduced computational complexity, fast weight convergence and robust performance in distorted environment. The SAPF is used to mitigate current related power quality problems such as harmonics, reactive power and load unbalancing in both modes of power factor correction and voltage regulation. The performance of proposed control algorithm of SAPF is demonstrated through simulation results in Matlab/Simulink environment, which are validated with test results obtained on the developed experimental prototype of SAPF in the laboratory.
Solution to short‐term frequency response of wind farms by using energy storage systems
Authors: Liu Ju , Wen Jinyu , Yao Wei , Long Yao
Published: February 2016

The increasing high penetration of wind power is bringing a serious challenge to the frequency regulation of power system, for wind turbine generators are unable to naturally contribute to system frequency response. To address this problem, this study proposes a control strategy to compensate the lack of short‐term frequency response ability of wind farms (WFs) by the energy storage system (ESS). First, the rated power and capacity of the ESS, which is installed at the point of common coupling of the WF to make it have similar short‐term frequency response ability to that of synchronous generators, are determined. The theoretical minimum rated power of the ESS should be about 5% rated power of the WF, only if the active power output of the ESS is controlled as its rated power during the whole inertial response process. Then, a fuzzy logic controller is designed for the ESS so that the required rated power of the ESS could reach its theoretical minimum value as closer as possible. Simulation results of a simplified practical power system show that WFs with the proposed strategy could response to the frequency change rapidly and support short‐term frequency control effectively under various disturbances.
Optimisation for offshore wind farm cable connection layout using adaptive particle swarm optimisation minimum spanning tree method
Authors: Hou Peng , Hu Weihao , Chen Zhe
Published: February 2016

The wind farm layout optimisation problem is similar to the classic mathematical problem of finding the minimum spanning tree (MST) of a weighted undirected graph. Due to the cable current‐carrying capacity limitation, the cable sectional area should be carefully selected to meet the system operational requirement and this constraint should be considered during the MST formulation process. Hence, traditional MST algorithm cannot ensure a minimal cable investment layout. In this study, a new method to optimise the offshore wind farm cable connection layout is presented. The algorithm is formulated based on the concept of MST and further improved by adaptive particle swarm optimisation algorithm. Since the location of the offshore substation (OS) has a significant impact on both the layout formulation and total cost of cables, the optimised location of OS is expected to be found together with the optimised cable connection layout. The proposed method is compared with the MST and dynamic MST methods and simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.