bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screen‐printed copper for front‐ and back‐side metallization of single‐ and multi‐crystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Dapei Giorgia , Papadimitropoulos Georgios , Varvitsiotis Dimitrios , Koustas Georgios , Vasilopoulou Maria , Davazoglou Dimitrios
Published: August 2015

The metallization of multi‐crystalline and single‐crystalline Si (m‐ and sc‐Si, respectively) photovoltaic (PV) solar cells was investigated by using copper screen print pastes designed for electronics packaging applications. For this purpose, Cu features were printed on m‐Si and sc‐Si silicon substrates using low pressure chemically vapor deposited (LPCVD) tungsten layers as adhesion promoters and barriers against Cu diffusion, and self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of (3‐mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) as adhesion promoters. It was found that pastes may be annealed at temperatures of the order of 600 °C, in primary vacuum and under reducing ambient to give acceptable Cu/Si contacts that pass the Scotch test and standard metallic strips may be soldered on them. Contacts of the form Cu/MPTMS/m‐Si were proved of limited lifetime; their study has shown that the Schottky barrier height was of the order of 0.45 eV. Screen‐printed Cu/LPCVD W/Si (substrate) contacts proved stable in time for sc‐Si but were found unstable for m‐Si. Cu was also printed on the Al layer used for the creation of the back‐surface field in industrial m‐Si PV cells by using SAMs of 11‐mercaptodouncyl phosphorus acid (MDTA) as adhesion promoters. The corresponding contacts did not affect the performance of cells and proved stable for a time period of the order of 1 month.
Growth of semipolar {20–21} GaN and {20–2–1} GaN for GaN substrate
Authors: Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Yamane Keisuke , Okada Narihito , Tadatomo Kazuyuki
Published: August 2015

In this article, we present a semipolar {20–21} GaN layer and {20–2–1} GaN layer for large GaN substrates. The {20–21} GaN layer was fabricated on {22–43} patterned sapphire substrates (PSSs) by metal‐organic vapor‐phase epitaxy (MOVPE) and hydride vapor‐phase epitaxy (HVPE). We found that the surface roughening and crack generation during the HVPE growth were suppressed by the formation of SiO2‐striped masks parallel to the c‐axis on the MOVPE‐grown {20–21} GaN template. Furthermore, we demonstrated millimeter‐thick crystal growth on a {20–21} GaN layer and a {20–2–1} GaN layer on a GaN substrate using HVPE. The dark‐spot density in the {20–2–1} GaN layer was approximately 9.6 × 106 cm−2 for 960 min growth. The dark‐spot density in the {20–2–1} GaN layer decreased more rapidly than that in the {20–21} GaN layer as growth thickness increased.
Large magnetoresistance of EuPtP1−xAsx
Authors: Sugishima Masaki , Wada Hirofumi , Mitsuda Akihiro , Kondo Akihiro , Kindo Koichi
Published: August 2015

High‐field magnetization and magnetoresistance of EuPtP1−xAsx with 0.55 ≤ x ≤ 0.70 have been studied. Large negative magnetoresistance associated with the field‐induced valence transition was observed. Based on the results, we discuss the nature of the valence transition caused by high magnetic fields. Besides, the compounds exhibit substantial negative magnetoresistance in the low field region below 10 T. It is found that the magnetoresistance is proportional to the square of magnetization. The origin of magnetoresistance in the low field region is also discussed.
Analysis of axial‐induction‐based wind plant control using an engineering and a high‐order wind plant model
Authors: Annoni Jennifer , Gebraad Pieter M. O. , Scholbrock Andrew K. , Fleming Paul A. , Wingerden Jan‐Willem van
Published: August 2015

Wind turbines are typically operated to maximize their performance without considering the impact of wake effects on nearby turbines. Wind plant control concepts aim to increase overall wind plant performance by coordinating the operation of the turbines. This paper focuses on axial‐induction‐based wind plant control techniques, in which the generator torque or blade pitch degrees of freedom of the wind turbines are adjusted. The paper addresses discrepancies between a high‐order wind plant model and an engineering wind plant model. Changes in the engineering model are proposed to better capture the effects of axial‐induction‐based control shown in the high‐order model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Engineering tailored nanoparticles with microbes: quo vadis?
Authors: Prasad Ram , Pandey Rishikesh , Barman Ishan
Published: August 2015

In the quest for less toxic and cleaner methods of nanomaterials production, recent developments in the biosynthesis of nanoparticles have underscored the important role of microorganisms. Their intrinsic ability to withstand variable extremes of temperature, pressure, and pH coupled with the minimal downstream processing requirements provide an attractive route for diverse applications. Yet, controlling the dispersity and facile tuning of the morphology of the nanoparticles of desired chemical compositions remains an ongoing challenge. In this Focus Review, we critically review the advances in nanoparticle synthesis using microbes, ranging from bacteria and fungi to viruses, and discuss new insights into the cellular mechanisms of such formation that may, in the near future, allow complete control over particle morphology and functionalization. In addition to serving as paradigms for cost‐effective, biocompatible, and eco‐friendly synthesis, microbes hold the promise for a unique template for synthesis of tailored nanoparticles targeted at therapeutic and diagnostic platform technologies. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2016, 8:316–330. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1363

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology
Molecular and cellular events involved in the completion of blastocyst implantation
Authors: Matsumoto Hiromichi , Fukui Emiko , Yoshizawa Midori
Published: August 2015

Blastocyst implantation is an interactive process between the embryo and the uterus. The synchronization of embryonic development with uterine differentiation to a receptive state is essential for a successful pregnancy. The period of uterine receptivity for implantation is limited. Although implantation involves the interaction of numerous signaling molecules, our understanding of the hierarchical mechanisms that coordinate with the embryo–uterine dialogue is not yet sufficient to prevent infertility caused by implantation failure. This review highlights our knowledge on uterine receptivity and hormonal regulation of blastocyst implantation in mice. We also discuss the adhesion molecules, cross‐linker proteins, extracellular proteins, and matricellular proteins involved in blastocyst implantation. Furthermore, our recent study reveals that selective proteolysis in an activated blastocyst is associated with the completion of blastocyst implantation after embryo transfer. A better understanding of uterine and blastocyst biology during the peri‐implantation period would facilitate further development of reproductive technology.
Israel and the Italian Communist Party (1948–2015): From fondness to enmity
Authors: De Martino Claudia
Published: August 2015

Based on a wide array of archival sources of the Communist Party of Italy (PCI), the article explores the historical relationship between the Party, Israel and the Jew and focuses on the real motivations behind the current divide between Israel and the European (Communist or former Communist) Left. The articles argues that Communism for Israel has not been lost for the presumed discriminatory attitude of the Jews in the Communist world, nor for historical growing Communist support of Palestinian guerrilla groups, but because of the increasing militarism and nationalism of the Zionist Left and the erosion of Communist and pacifist ideals.
OPTIMAL MIX BETWEEN PAY AS YOU GO AND FUNDING FOR PENSION LIABILITIES IN A STOCHASTIC FRAMEWORK
Authors: Devolder Pierre , Melis Roberta
Published: August 2015

This paper addresses the financing of public pensions in a stochastic environment. Traditionally, funded and unfunded pension schemes have been viewed as opposite solutions for the first pillar of public pensions. However, more recently countries as Sweden and Poland have explored mixed solutions that combine pay-as-you-go (PAYG) with funding mechanisms. The aims of this paper are to examine the rationality of such a combination using portfolio theory arguments and to find the optimal split of the contributions between the two systems. We first introduce the classical deterministic model leading to the well-known Samuelson–Aaron rule according to which diversification is never optimal. We then introduce different stochastic models in which the main processes (wage growth, population growth, financial rate of return) are random. In particular, we obtain conditions on parameters to justify diversification and explicit optimal sharing between PAYG and funding. We also introduce the possibility of investing in several financial assets and explore the impact of introducing systematic longevity risk.
Academic Institutions’ Critical Guidelines for Health Care Workers Who Deploy to West Africa for the Ebola Response and Future Crises
Authors: Cranmer Hilarie , Aschkenasy Miriam , Wildes Ryan , Kayden Stephanie , Bangsberg David , Niescierenko Michelle , Kemen Katie , Hsiao Kai-Hsun , VanRooyen Michael , Burkle Frederick M. , Biddinger Paul D.
Published: August 2015

The unprecedented Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in West Africa, with its first cases documented in March 2014, has claimed the lives of thousands of people, and it has devastated the health care infrastructure and workforce in affected countries. Throughout this outbreak, there has been a critical lack of health care workers (HCW), including physicians, nurses, and other essential non-clinical staff, who have been needed, in most of the affected countries, to support the medical response to EVD, to attend to the health care needs of the population overall, and to be trained effectively in infection protection and control. This lack of sufficient and qualified HCW is due in large part to three factors: 1) limited HCW staff prior to the outbreak, 2) disproportionate illness and death among HCWs caused by EVD directly, and 3) valid concerns about personal safety among international HCWs who are considering responding to the affected areas. These guidelines are meant to inform institutions who deploy professional HCWs. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:586–590)
Antibubbles and fine cylindrical sheets of air
Authors: Beilharz D. , Guyon A. , Li E. Q. , Thoraval M.-J. , Thoroddsen S. T.
Published: August 2015

Drops impacting at low velocities onto a pool surface can stretch out thin hemispherical sheets of air between the drop and the pool. These air sheets can remain intact until they reach submicron thicknesses, at which point they rupture to form a myriad of microbubbles. By impacting a higher-viscosity drop onto a lower-viscosity pool, we have explored new geometries of such air films. In this way we are able to maintain stable air layers which can wrap around the entire drop to form repeatable antibubbles, i.e. spherical air layers bounded by inner and outer liquid masses. Furthermore, for the most viscous drops they enter the pool trailing a viscous thread reaching all the way to the pinch-off nozzle. The air sheet can also wrap around this thread and remain stable over an extended period of time to form a cylindrical air sheet. We study the parameter regime where these structures appear and their subsequent breakup. The stability of these thin cylindrical air sheets is inconsistent with inviscid stability theory, suggesting stabilization by lubrication forces within the submicron air layer. We use interferometry to measure the air-layer thickness versus depth along the cylindrical air sheet and around the drop. The air film is thickest above the equator of the drop, but thinner below the drop and up along the air cylinder. Based on microbubble volumes, the thickness of the cylindrical air layer becomes less than 100 nm before it ruptures.
Confined turbulent entrainment across density interfaces
Authors: Shrinivas Ajay B. , Hunt Gary R.
Published: August 2015

In pursuit of a universal law for the rate of entrainment across a density interface driven by the impingement of a localised turbulent flow, the role of the confinement, wherein the environment is within the confines of a box, has to date been overlooked. Seeking to unravel the effects of confinement, we develop a phenomenological model describing the quasi-steady rate at which buoyant fluid is turbulently entrained across a density interface separating two uniform layers within the confines of a box. The upper layer is maintained by a turbulent plume, and the localised impingement of a turbulent fountain with the interface drives entrainment of fluid from the upper layer into the lower layer. The plume and fountain rise from sources at the base of the box and are non-interacting. Guided by previous observations, our model characterises the dynamics of fountain–interface interaction and the steady secondary flow in the environment that is induced by the perpetual cycle of vertical excursions of the interface. We reveal that the dimensionless entrainment flux across the interface $E_{i}$ is governed not only by an interfacial Froude number $\mathit{Fr}_{i}$ but also by a ‘confinement’ parameter ${\it\lambda}_{i}$, which characterises the length scale of interfacial turbulence relative to the depth of the upper layer. By deducing the range of ${\it\lambda}_{i}$ that may be regarded as ‘small’ and ‘large’, we shed new light on the effects of confinement on interfacial entrainment. We establish that for small ${\it\lambda}_{i}$, a weak secondary flow has little influence on $E_{i}$, which follows a quadratic power law $E_{i}\propto \mathit{Fr}_{i}^{2}$. For large ${\it\lambda}_{i}$, a strong secondary flow significantly influences $E_{i}$, which then follows a cubic power law $E_{i}\propto \mathit{Fr}_{i}^{3}$. Drawing on these results, and showing that for previous experimental studies ${\it\lambda}_{i}$ exhibits wide variation, we highlight underlying physical reasons for the significant scatter in the existing measurements of the rate of interfacial entrainment. Finally, we explore the implications of our results for guiding appropriate choices of box geometry for experimentally and numerically examining interfacial entrainment.
Extensional and shear flows, and general rheology of concentrated emulsions of deformable drops
Authors: Zinchenko Alexander Z. , Davis Robert H.
Published: August 2015

The rheology of highly concentrated monodisperse emulsions is studied by rigorous multidrop numerical simulations for three types of steady macroscopic flow, (i) simple shear ($\dot{{\it\gamma}}x_{2}$, 0 0), (ii) planar extension (PE) ($\dot{{\it\Gamma}}x_{1},-\dot{{\it\Gamma}}x_{2},0$) and (iii) mixed ($\dot{{\it\gamma}}x_{2}$, $\dot{{\it\gamma}}{\it\chi}x_{1}$, 0), where $\dot{{\it\gamma}}$ and $\dot{{\it\Gamma}}$ are the deformation rates, and ${\it\chi}\in (-1,1)$ is the flow parameter, in order to construct and validate a general constitutive model for emulsion flows with arbitrary kinematics. The algorithm is a development of the multipole-accelerated boundary-integral (BI) code of Zinchenko & Davis (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 455, 2002, pp. 21–62). It additionally incorporates periodic boundary conditions for (ii) and (iii) (based on the reproducible lattice dynamics of Kraynik–Reinelt for PE), control of surface overlapping, much more robust controllable surface triangulations for long-time simulations, and more efficient acceleration. The emulsion steady-state viscometric functions (shear viscosity and normal stress differences) for (i) and extensiometric functions (extensional viscosity and stress cross-difference) for (ii) are studied in the range of drop volume fractions $c=0.45{-}0.55$, drop-to-medium viscosity ratios ${\it\lambda}=0.25{-}10$ and various capillary numbers $\mathit{Ca}$, with 100–400 drops in a periodic cell and 2000–4000 boundary elements per drop. High surface resolution is important for all three flows at small $\mathit{Ca}$. Large system size and strains $\dot{{\it\gamma}}t$ of up to several thousand are imperative in some shear-flow simulations to identify the onset of phase transition to a partially ordered state, and evaluate (although still not precisely) the viscometric functions in this state. Below the phase transition point, the shear viscosity versus $\mathit{Ca}$ shows a kinked behaviour, with the local minimum most pronounced at ${\it\lambda}=1$ and $c=0.55$. The ${\it\lambda}=0.25$ emulsions flow in a partially ordered manner in a wide range of $\mathit{Ca}$ even when $c=0.45$. Increase of ${\it\lambda}$ to 3–10 shifts the onset of ordering to much smaller $\mathit{Ca}$, often outside the simulation range. In contrast to simple shear, phase transition is never observed in PE or mixed flow. A generalized five-parameter Oldroyd model with variable coefficients is fitted to our extensiometric and viscometric functions at arbitrary flow intensities (but outside the phase transition range). The model predictions compare very well with precise simulation results for strong mixed flows, ${\it\chi}=0.25$. Time-dependent PE flow is also considered. Ways to overcome the phase transition and drop breakup limitations on constitutive modelling are discussed.
Estimation of transient heat transfer and fluid flow for alloy solidification in a rectangular cavity with an isothermal sidewall
Authors: Plotkowski A. , Fezi K. , Krane M. J. M.
Published: August 2015

Transient scaling and integral analyses were performed to predict trends in alloy solidification in a rectangular cavity cooled by an isothermal sidewall. The natural convection fluid flow was approximated by a scaling analysis for a laminar boundary layer at the solidification front, and was coupled to scaling and integral analyses of the energy equation to predict the solidification behaviour of the system. These analyses predicted several relevant aspects of the solidification process, including the time required to extinguish the initial superheat and the maximum local solidification time as a function of the system parameters and material properties. These results were verified by comparison to numerical simulations for an Al–4.5 wt% Cu alloy for various initial and boundary conditions and cavity aspect ratios. The analysis was compared to previous attempts to analyse similar fluid flow and solidification processes, and the limitations of the assumptions used for this analysis were discussed.
Global Trade and Indian Politics: The German Dye Business in India before 1947
Authors: Lubinski Christina
Published: August 2015

This article analyzes the German dye business in India before 1947 as an example of expanding German-Indian commercial relationships. German dye manufacturers showed great interest in India's economic potential in the absence of discriminatory tariffs, while Indian elites were interested in non-British Western partners, which could support their struggle for industrial self-reliance. This particular alignment of interests facilitated cooperation and shows that the so-called European experience is more diverse than research has shown so far. The analysis highlights global trading networks beyond the political boundaries of formal empire and offers an alternative perspective on Indian business history, which reveals more competition between multinationals of different origins and more strategic choices available to Indians.
Structure building and thematic constraints in Bantu inversion constructions
Authors: MARTEN LUTZ , GIBSON HANNAH
Published: August 2015

Bantu inversion constructions include locative inversion, patient inversion (also called subject–object reversal), semantic locative inversion and instrument inversion. The constructions show a high level of cross-linguistic variation, but also a core of invariant shared morphosyntactic and information structural properties. These include: that the preverbal position is filled by a non-agent NP triggering verbal agreement, that the agent follows the verb obligatorily, that object marking is disallowed, and that the preverbal NP is more topical, and the postverbal NP more focal. While previous analyses have tended to concentrate on one inversion type, the present paper develops a uniform analysis of Bantu inversion constructions. Adopting a Dynamic Syntax perspective, we show how the constructions share basic aspects of structure building and semantic representation. In our analysis, cross-linguistic differences in the distribution of inversion constructions result from unrelated parameters of variation, as well as from thematic constraints related to the thematic hierarchy. With some modification, the analysis can also be extended to passives.
Peri-urban conservation in the Mondah forest of Libreville, Gabon: Red List assessments of endemic plant species, and avoiding protected area downsizing
Authors: Walters G. , Ngagnia Ndjabounda E. , Ikabanga D. , Biteau J. P. , Hymas O. , White L. J. T. , Ndong Obiang A.-M. , Ndong Ondo P. , Jeffery K. J. , Lachenaud O. , Stévart T.
Published: August 2015

Urban development is an increasing threat to the integrity of formerly remote protected areas, in some cases resulting in their downgrading, downsizing or degazetting. One-quarter of previously remote protected areas are now within 17 km of a city and thus face the threat of urbanization. Here we describe a case of avoided downgrading, downsizing and degazetting of a protected area in the Mondah forest of Gabon, north of Libreville. Since its creation in 1934 the Forêt Classée de la Mondah has been downsized regularly, losing 40% of its area over 80 years. During this time the forest surrounding the Forêt Classée was subject to usage for urban and peri-urban needs, including agriculture, sand extraction, collection of medicinal plants, ceremonies, and housing construction. In 2010 the area was threatened with further downsizing. The presence of narrowly endemic plant species in the area was suspected, and mapping and evaluation of these species was proposed in an effort to maintain the protected area boundaries. Botanical field work, including ex situ conservation measures and participant observation in nearby forest communities, was conducted; 24 endemic species, all threatened by urbanization, were evaluated using the criteria for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The borders of the protected area were maintained because of its role in maintaining irreplaceable habitat for threatened species. The area was renamed Raponda Walker Arboretum in 2012.
Depression and the risk of autoimmune disease: a nationally representative, prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Andersson N. W. , Gustafsson L. N. , Okkels N. , Taha F. , Cole S. W. , Munk-Jørgensen P. , Goodwin R. D.
Published: August 2015

Background.

Autoimmune diseases are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, yet the etiology remains unclear. Depression has been implicated as a risk factor for various immune-related disorders but little is known about the risk of autoimmune disease. This study examined the association between depression and the risk of autoimmune disease, and investigated the temporal and dose-response nature of these relationships.

Method.

A prospective population-based study including approximately 1.1 million people was conducted using linked Danish registries. Depression and autoimmune diseases were diagnosed by physicians and documented in medical records. In total, 145 217 individuals with depression were identified between 1995 and 2012. Survival analyses were used to estimate the relative risk of autoimmune disease among those with, compared to without, depression. Analyses were adjusted for gender, age, and co-morbid mental disorders.

Results.

Depression was associated with a significantly increased risk of autoimmune disease [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.25, 95% CI 1.19–1.31], compared to those without a history of depression. Results suggest a general increased risk of autoimmune diseases following the onset of depression during first year (IRR 1.29, 95% CI 1.05–1.58), which remained elevated for the ensuing 11 years and beyond (IRR 1.53, 95% CI 1.34–1.76). Findings did not support a dose-response relationship.

Conclusions.

Depression appears to be associated with an increased risk of a range of autoimmune diseases. Depression may play a role in the etiology of certain autoimmune conditions. If replicated, findings could highlight additional clinical implications in the treatment and management of depression. Future studies are needed to investigate the possible social, genetic, and neurobiological underpinnings of these relationships.
Seeing the Dao: conceptual metaphors and the philosophy of religion
Authors: HARRISON VICTORIA S.
Published: August 2015

This article suggests that different philosophical traditions have developed and matured around particular conceptual metaphors. It proposes that conceptual metaphor theory provides a useful tool with which to think about different world philosophical traditions, as it can reveal the deep structure of networks of ideas. Conceptual metaphors are not just linguistic devices; rather they organize whole networks of thought, experience, and activity. This idea is explored and special attention paid to the role of those conceptual metaphors that structure ways of thinking about knowledge within Western, Indian, and East Asian traditions. The article concludes with some reflections on the implications of this approach for inter-cultural philosophy of religion.
The modality of theism and probabilistic natural theology: a tension in Alvin Plantinga's philosophy
Authors: WUNDER TYLER
Published: August 2015

In Wunder (2013) I observed a probabilistic blunder in Plantinga (2011) and argued that correcting it, while noting Plantinga's acceptance of logically non-contingent theism, had negative consequences for many other of his probabilistic claims. Professor Plantinga kindly replied to my correspondence, but the fruits of that conversation could not be incorporated into Wunder (2013). This article will explain the blunder and summarize my earlier arguments before addressing Plantinga's main replies. I conclude that these replies fail to circumvent most of the problems observed earlier: perhaps most significantly, the Evolutionary Argument against Naturalism and theism's logical non-contingency still appear jointly to imply theism's necessary falsehood.
Phase 2 trial of ixazomib in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma not refractory to bortezomib
Authors: Kumar S K , LaPlant B , Roy V , Reeder C B , Lacy M Q , Gertz M A , Laumann K , Thompson M A , Witzig T E , Buadi F K , Rivera C E , Mikhael J R , Bergsagel P L , Kapoor P , Hwa L , Fonseca R , Stewart A K , Chanan-Khan A , Rajkumar S V , Dispenzieri A
Published: August 2015

This phase 2 trial was designed to evaluate ixazomib, an orally bioavailable proteasome inhibitor, in patients with myeloma who have limited prior exposure to bortezomib. Thirty-three patients with relapsed multiple myeloma were enrolled. Ixazomib was given at 5.5 mg weekly for 3 of 4 weeks. Dexamethasone was added for lack of a minor response (MR) by end of cycle 2 or lack of a partial response (PR) by end of cycle 4 or for disease progression at any time. Median age was 69 years; patients had a median of two prior therapies (range 1–7). A grade 3 or 4 adverse event considered at least possibly related to drug was seen in 19 (59%) and 6 (19%) patients, respectively. The most common adverse events were thrombocytopenia, fatigue, nausea and diarrhea. Dexamethasone was initiated in 22 (67%) patients, 17 for not reaching the desired response and 5 for progression. Response (⩾PR) to single agent was seen in five patients within four cycles of therapy including three patients with PR, one patient with complete response (CR) and one patient with stringent CR. Six additional patients with either an MR (2) or SD (4) achieved a PR after addition of dexamethasone, translating to an overall response rate of 34%.
IL‐7 induces clathrin‐mediated endocytosis of CD127 and subsequent degradation by the proteasome in primary human CD8 T cells
Authors: Faller Elliott M , Ghazawi Feras M , Cavar Marko , MacPherson Paul A
Published: August 2015

Interleukin‐7 (IL‐7), a key immunoregulatory cytokine, plays an essential role in peripheral T‐cell homeostasis and function. Signaling via the IL‐7 receptor is tightly regulated and we and others have shown IL‐7 provides negative feedback on its own signaling by downregulating expression of the IL‐7 receptor alpha‐chain (CD127) through both suppression of CD127 gene transcription and by internalization of existing CD127 proteins from the cell membrane. We show here for the first time in primary human CD8 T cells that upon stimulation with IL‐7, CD127 is internalized through clathrin‐coated pits, a process dependent on both lipid‐raft formation and the activity of dynamin. As visualized by confocal microscopy, CD127 shows increased co‐localization with clathrin within 5 min of IL‐7 stimulation and within 15–30 min is seen in multiple intracellular punctae co‐localizing with the early endosomal marker EEA1. By 2 h after addition of IL‐7, CD127 staining associates with the late endosomal marker RAB7 and with the proteasomal 20S subunit. By inducing receptor internalization and translocation from early endosomes to the proteasome, IL‐7 directly influences its receptor density on the cell surface and thus regulates the intensity of its own signaling cascades. Given the important role IL‐7 plays in T‐cell development, homeostasis and function, deciphering how expression of its receptor is controlled on the cell surface is essential in understanding how T‐cell activity can be regulated in different microenvironments and in response to different pathogens.
Common and rare variants associated with kidney stones and biochemical traits
Authors: Oddsson Asmundur , Sulem Patrick , Helgason Hannes , Edvardsson Vidar O. , Thorleifsson Gudmar , Sveinbjörnsson Gardar , Haraldsdottir Eik , Eyjolfsson Gudmundur I. , Sigurdardottir Olof , Olafsson Isleifur , Masson Gisli , Holm Hilma , Gudbjartsson Daniel F. , Thorsteinsdottir Unnur , Indridason Olafur S. , Palsson Runolfur , Stefansson Kari
Published: August 2015

Kidney stone disease is a complex disorder with a strong genetic component. We conducted a genome-wide association study of 28.3 million sequence variants detected through whole-genome sequencing of 2,636 Icelanders that were imputed into 5,419 kidney stone cases, including 2,172 cases with a history of recurrent kidney stones, and 279,870 controls. We identify sequence variants associating with kidney stones at ALPL (rs1256328[T], odds ratio (OR)=1.21, P=5.8 × 10−10) and a suggestive association at CASR (rs7627468[A], OR=1.16, P=2.0 × 10−8). Focusing our analysis on coding sequence variants in 63 genes with preferential kidney expression we identify two rare missense variants SLC34A1 p.Tyr489Cys (OR=2.38, P=2.8 × 10−5) and TRPV5 p.Leu530Arg (OR=3.62, P=4.1 × 10−5) associating with recurrent kidney stones. We also observe associations of the identified kidney stone variants with biochemical traits in a large population set, indicating potential biological mechanism.
Visualizing nanoscale 3D compositional fluctuation of lithium in advanced lithium-ion battery cathodes
Authors: Devaraj A. , Gu M. , Colby R. , Yan P. , Wang C. M. , Zheng J. M. , Xiao J. , Genc A. , Zhang J. G. , Belharouak I. , Wang D. , Amine K. , Thevuthasan S.
Published: August 2015

The distribution of cations in Li-ion battery cathodes as a function of cycling is a pivotal characteristic of battery performance. The transition metal cation distribution has been shown to affect cathode performance; however, Li is notoriously challenging to characterize with typical imaging techniques. Here laser-assisted atom probe tomography (APT) is used to map the three-dimensional distribution of Li at a sub-nanometre spatial resolution and correlate it with the distribution of the transition metal cations (M) and the oxygen. As-fabricated layered Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 is shown to have Li-rich Li2MO3 phase regions and Li-depleted Li(Ni0.5Mn0.5)O2 regions. Cycled material has an overall loss of Li in addition to Ni-, Mn- and Li-rich regions. Spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 is shown to have a uniform distribution of all cations. APT results were compared to energy dispersive spectroscopy mapping with a scanning transmission electron microscope to confirm the transition metal cation distribution.
TRIzol and Alu qPCR-based quantification of metastatic seeding within the skeleton
Authors: Preston Campbell J. , Mulcrone P. , Masood S. K. , Karolak M. , Merkel A. , Hebron K. , Zijlstra A. , Sterling J. , Elefteriou F.
Published: August 2015

Current methods for detecting disseminated tumor cells in the skeleton are limited by expense and technical complexity. We describe a simple and inexpensive method to quantify, with single cell sensitivity, human metastatic cancer in the mouse skeleton, concurrently with host gene expression, using TRIzol-based DNA/RNA extraction and Alu sequence qPCR amplification. This approach enables precise quantification of tumor cells and corresponding host gene expression during metastatic colonization in xenograft models.
Stabilisation of Fe2O3-rich Perovskite Nanophase in Epitaxial Rare-earth Doped BiFeO3 Films
Authors: Zhang Huairuo , Reaney Ian M. , Marincel Daniel M. , Trolier-McKinstry Susan , Ramasse Quentin M. , MacLaren Ian , Findlay Scott D. , Fraleigh Robert D. , Ross Ian M. , Hu Shunbo , Ren Wei , Mark Rainforth W.
Published: August 2015

Researchers have demonstrated that BiFeO3 exhibits ferroelectric hysteresis but none have shown a strong ferromagnetic response in either bulk or thin film without significant structural or compositional modification. When remanent magnetisations are observed in BiFeO3 based thin films, iron oxide second phases are often detected. Using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy, atomic resolution electron energy loss spectrum-mapping and quantitative energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis, we reveal the existence of a new Fe2O3-rich perovskite nanophase, with an approximate formula (Fe0.6Bi0.25Nd0.15)3+ Fe3+O3, formed within epitaxial Ti and Nd doped BiFeO3 perovskite films grown by pulsed laser deposition. The incorporation of Nd and Bi ions on the A-site and coherent growth with the matrix stabilise the Fe2O3-rich perovskite phase and preliminary density functional theory calculations suggest that it should have a ferrimagnetic response. Perovskite-structured Fe2O3 has been reported previously but never conclusively proven when fabricated at high-pressure high-temperature. This work suggests the incorporation of large A-site species may help stabilise perovskite-structured Fe2O3. This finding is therefore significant not only to the thin film but also to the high-pressure community.
Integrated analysis of miRNA/mRNA network in placenta identifies key factors associated with labor onset of Large White and Qingping sows
Authors: Li Huanan , Wu Bin , Geng Junnan , Zhou Jiawei , Zheng Rong , Chai Jin , Li Fenge , Peng Jian , Jiang Siwen
Published: August 2015

Labour onset is a very complex physiological process and its mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we obtained the mRNA and miRNA expression profiles from the placentas of four groups of sows: Qingping sows 112 days after insemination with signs of labour onset (QS), Qingping sows 114 days after insemination with signs of labour onset (QL), Large White sows 114 days after insemination with signs of labour onset (LL) and Large White sows 112 days after insemination without signs of labour onset (LN). A set of differentially expressed genes, including 2164 mRNAs and 39 miRNAs, were found. A DAVID analysis of these differentially expressed genes revealed their critical roles in response to hormone stimulus, immune response. Cytoscape Network analysis of the functional genes found node mRNAs and that the regulatory network between the node mRNAs and miRNAs was established. A comparison of the sequencing data from the shorter gestation period (QS) and the normal gestation period (QL) indicated that these genes were responsible for the quicker and more sensitive reaction to the regulation of labour onset. This research not only detected the key factors that were involved in labour onset but also provided useful information for the research of gynaecological diseases.
Optimal GHZ Paradox for Three Qubits
Authors: Ren Changliang , Su Hong-Yi , Xu Zhen-Peng , Wu Chunfeng , Chen Jing-Ling
Published: August 2015

Quatum nonlocality as a valuable resource is of vital importance in quantum information processing. The characterization of the resource has been extensively investigated mainly for pure states, while relatively less is know for mixed states. Here we prove the existence of the optimal GHZ paradox by using a novel and simple method to extract an optimal state that can saturate the tradeoff relation between quantum nonlocality and the state purity. In this paradox, the logical inequality which is formulated by the GHZ-typed event probabilities can be violated maximally by the optimal state for any fixed amount of purity (or mixedness). Moreover, the optimal state can be described as a standard GHZ state suffering flipped color noise. The maximal amount of noise that the optimal state can resist is 50%. We suggest our result to be a step toward deeper understanding of the role played by the AVN proof of quantum nonlocality as a useful physical resource.
Artificial biofilms establish the role of matrix interactions in staphylococcal biofilm assembly and disassembly
Authors: Stewart Elizabeth J. , Ganesan Mahesh , Younger John G. , Solomon Michael J.
Published: August 2015

We demonstrate that the microstructural and mechanical properties of bacterial biofilms can be created through colloidal self-assembly of cells and polymers and thereby link the complex material properties of biofilms to well understood colloidal and polymeric behaviors. This finding is applied to soften and disassemble staphylococcal biofilms through pH changes. Bacterial biofilms are viscoelastic, structured communities of cells encapsulated in an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) comprised of polysaccharides, proteins and DNA. Although the identity and abundance of EPS macromolecules are known, how these matrix materials interact with themselves and bacterial cells to generate biofilm morphology and mechanics is not understood. Here, we find that the colloidal self-assembly of Staphylococcus epidermidis RP62A cells and polysaccharides into viscoelastic biofilms is driven by thermodynamic phase instability of EPS. pH conditions that induce phase instability of chitosan produce artificial S. epidermidis biofilms whose mechanics match natural S. epidermidis biofilms. Furthermore, pH-induced solubilization of the matrix triggers disassembly in both artificial and natural S. epidermidis biofilms. This pH-induced disassembly occurs in biofilms formed by five additional staphylococcal strains, including three clinical isolates. Our findings suggest that colloidal self-assembly of cells and matrix polymers produces biofilm viscoelasticity and that biofilm control strategies can exploit this mechanism.
Sub-0.5 V Highly Stable Aqueous Salt Gated Metal Oxide Electronics
Authors: Park Sungjun , Lee SeYeong , Kim Chang-Hyun , Lee Ilseop , Lee Won-June , Kim Sohee , Lee Byung-Geun , Jang Jae-Hyung , Yoon Myung-Han
Published: August 2015

Recently, growing interest in implantable bionics and biochemical sensors spurred the research for developing non-conventional electronics with excellent device characteristics at low operation voltages and prolonged device stability under physiological conditions. Herein, we report high-performance aqueous electrolyte-gated thin-film transistors using a sol-gel amorphous metal oxide semiconductor and aqueous electrolyte dielectrics based on small ionic salts. The proper selection of channel material (i.e., indium-gallium-zinc-oxide) and precautious passivation of non-channel areas enabled the development of simple but highly stable metal oxide transistors manifested by low operation voltages within 0.5 V, high transconductance of ~1.0 mS, large current on-off ratios over 107 and fast inverter responses up to several hundred hertz without device degradation even in physiologically-relevant ionic solutions. In conjunction with excellent transistor characteristics, investigation of the electrochemical nature of the metal oxide-electrolyte interface may contribute to the development of a viable bio-electronic platform directly interfacing with biological entities in vivo.
Feline lungworms unlock a novel mode of parasite transmission
Authors: Colella Vito , Giannelli Alessio , Brianti Emanuele , Ramos Rafael Antonio Nascimento , Cantacessi Cinzia , Dantas-Torres Filipe , Otranto Domenico
Published: August 2015

Snail-borne lungworms exert an enormous toll on the health and welfare of animals and humans. Of these parasites, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior affect the respiratory tract of felids. These lungworms share both the ecological niche and the species of snail (Helix aspersa) acting as intermediate host. Recently, the ability of H. aspersa to shed infective third-stage larvae (L3s) of A. abstrusus and T. brevior in the environment has been demonstrated, matching previous knowledge of mode of transmission of zoonotic lungworms. Here, we evaluated, for the first time, the ability of A. abstrusus and T. brevior L3s to infect new, susceptible snail hosts following their release from experimentally infected molluscs and refer to this novel route of parasite transmission as intermediesis. The implications of snail-to-snail transmission in the epidemiology of snail-borne diseases are also discussed.
Wide mutation spectrum and frequent variant Ala27Thr of FBN1 identified in a large cohort of Chinese patients with sporadic TAAD
Authors: Guo Jun , Cai Lun , Jia Lixin , Li Xiaoyan , Xi Xin , Zheng Shuai , Liu Xuxia , Piao Chunmei , Liu Tingting , Sun Zhongsheng , Cai Tao , Du Jie
Published: August 2015

Genetic etiology in majority of patients with sporadic thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissections (STAAD) remains unknown. Recent GWAS study suggested common variant(s) in FBN1 is associated with STAAD. The present study aims to test this hypothesis and to identify mutation spectrum by targeted exome sequencing of the FBN1 gene in 146 unrelated patients with STAAD. Totally, 15.75% of FBN1 variants in STAAD were identified, including 5 disruptive and 18 missense mutations. Most of the variants were novel. Genotype-phenotype correlation analysis suggested that the maximum aortic diameter in the disruptive mutation group was significantly larger than that in the non-Cys missense mutation group. Interestingly, the variant Ala27Thr at −1 position, which is predicted to change the cleavage site of the signal peptidase of fibrillin-1, was detected in two unrelated patients. Furthermore, genotyping analysis of this variant detected 10 heterozygous Ala27Thr from additional 666 unrelated patients (1.50%), versus 7 from 1500 controls (0.47%), indicating a significant association of this variant with STAAD. Collectively, the identification of the variant Ala27Thr may represent a relatively common genetic predisposition and a novel pathogenetic mechanism for STAAD. Also, expansion of the mutation spectrum in FBN1 will be helpful in genetic counselling for Chinese patients with STAAD.
Transmitting information of an object behind the obstacle to infinity
Authors: Xu Bai Bing , Jiang Wei Xiang , Meng Ling Ling , Cui Tie Jun
Published: August 2015

We propose an illusion device that transforms a metallic cylinder into a Luneburg lens by using transformation optics. Such a transformed focusing lens guides electromagnetic waves to propagate around the central metallic cylinder smoothly and be focused on one spot and thus the information of an object behind the obstacle can be transmitted to infinity. In order to realize the required-anisotropic parameters with high permittivity and low permeability, we design embedded split-ring resonators (SRRs) to increase the permittivity of the traditional SRR structures. In experiments, we fabricate and measure the transformed lens and the tested results agree well with the numerical simulations and theoretical predictions. The proposed transformation lens can mimic some properties of Einstein gravitational lens because their wave propagation behaviors are very similar.
IL-33 released by alum is responsible for early cytokine production and has adjuvant properties
Authors: Rose II William A. , Okragly Angela J. , Patel Chetan N. , Benschop Robert J.
Published: August 2015

Human vaccines have used aluminium-based adjuvants (alum) for >80 years despite incomplete understanding of how alum enhances the immune response. Alum can induce the release of endogenous danger signals via cellular necrosis which elicits inflammation-associated cytokines resulting in humoral immunity. IL-33 is proposed to be one such danger signal that is released from necrotic cells. Therefore, we investigated whether there is a role for IL-33 in the adjuvant activity of alum. We show that alum-induced cellular necrosis results in elevated levels of IL-33 following injection in vivo. Alum and IL-33 induce similar increases in IL-5, KC, MCP-1, MIP-1α and MIP-1β; many of which are dependent on IL-33 as shown in IL-33 knockout mice or by using an IL-33-neutralizing recombinant ST2 receptor. Furthermore, IL-33 itself functions as an adjuvant that, while only inducing a marginal primary response, facilitates a robust secondary response comparable to that observed with alum. However, IL-33 is not absolutely required for alum-induced antibody responses since alum mediates similar humoral responses in IL-33 knockout and wild-type mice. Our results provide novel insights into the mechanism of action behind alum-induced cytokine responses and show that IL-33 is sufficient to provide a robust secondary antibody response independently of alum.
Does metal pollution matter with C retention by rice soil?
Authors: Bian Rongjun , Cheng Kun , Zheng Jufeng , Liu Xiaoyu , Liu Yongzhuo , Li Zhipeng , Li Lianqing , Smith Pete , Pan Genxing , Crowley David , Zheng Jinwei , Zhang Xuhui , Zhang Liangyun , Hussain Qaiser
Published: August 2015

Soil respiration, resulting in decomposition of soil organic carbon (SOC), emits CO2 to the atmosphere and increases under climate warming. However, the impact of heavy metal pollution on soil respiration in croplands is not well understood. Here we show significantly increased soil respiration and efflux of both CO2 and CH4 with a concomitant reduction in SOC storage from a metal polluted rice soil in China. This change is linked to a decline in soil aggregation, in microbial abundance and in fungal dominance. The carbon release is presumably driven by changes in carbon cycling occurring in the stressed soil microbial community with heavy metal pollution in the soil. The pollution-induced increase in soil respiration and loss of SOC storage will likely counteract efforts to increase SOC sequestration in rice paddies for climate change mitigation.