bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spray-cast multilayer perovskite solar cells with an active-area of 1.5 cm2
Authors: Bishop James E. , Mohamad David K. , Wong-Stringer Michael , Smith Alex , Lidzey David G.
Published: August 2017

We utilise spray-coating under ambient conditions to sequentially deposit compact-TiO2, mesoporous-TiO2, CH3NH3PbI(3−x)Clx perovskite and doped spiro-OMeTAD layers, creating a mesoporous standard architecture perovskite solar cell (PSC). The devices created had an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 9.2% and a peak PCE of 10.2%; values that compare favourably with control-devices fabricated by spin-casting that had an average efficiency of 11.4%. We show that our process can be used to create devices having an active-area of 1.5 cm2 having an independently verified efficiency of 6.6%. This work demonstrates the versatility of spray-coating as well as its potential as a method of manufacturing low-cost, large-area, efficient perovskite devices.
Hyaluronic acid coatings as a simple and efficient approach to improve MSC homing toward the site of inflammation
Authors: Corradetti Bruna , Taraballi Francesca , Martinez Jonathan O. , Minardi Silvia , Basu Nupur , Bauza Guillermo , Evangelopoulos Michael , Powell Sebastian , Corbo Claudia , Tasciotti Ennio
Published: August 2017

A major challenge in regenerative medicine is to improve therapeutic cells’ delivery and targeting using an efficient and simple protocol. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are currently employed for the treatment of inflammatory-based diseases, due to their powerful immunosoppressive potential. Here we report a simple and versatile method to transiently overexpress the hyaluronic acid (HA) receptor, CD44, on MSC membranes, to improve their homing potential towards an inflammatory site without affecting their behavior. The effect of HA-coatings on murine MSC was functionally determined both, in vitro and in vivo as a consequence of the transient CD44 overexpression induced by HA. Data obtained from the in vitro migration assay demonstrated a two-fold increase in the migratory potential of HA-treated MSC compared to untreated cells. In an LPS-induced inflamed ear murine model, HA-treated MSC demonstrated a significantly higher inflammatory targeting as observed at 72 hrs as compared to untreated cells. This increased accumulation for HA-treated MSC yielded a substantial reduction in inflammation as demonstrated by the decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory markers and by the induction of a pro-regenerative environment.
CREB3L2-mediated expression of Sec23A/Sec24D is involved in hepatic stellate cell activation through ER-Golgi transport
Authors: Tomoishi Shotaro , Fukushima Shinichi , Shinohara Kentaro , Katada Toshiaki , Saito Kota
Published: August 2017

Hepatic fibrosis is caused by exaggerated wound healing response to chronic injury, which eventually leads to hepatic cirrhosis. Differentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to myofibroblast-like cells by inflammatory cytokines is the critical step in fibrosis. This step is accompanied by enlargement of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus, suggesting that protein synthesis and secretion are augmented in the activated HSCs. However, the process of rearrangement of secretory organelles and their functions remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we revealed that differentiation alters early secretory gene expression. We observed significant isoform-specific upregulation of the inner coat protein complex II (COPII) components, Sec23A and Sec24D, via the transmembrane bZIP transcription factor, CREB3L2/BBF2H7, during HSC activation. Moreover, knockdown of these components abrogated the activation, suggesting that Sec23A/Sec24D-mediated ER to Golgi trafficking is required for HSC activation.
Assessment of Three New Loci from Genome-wide Association Study in Essential Tremor in Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zhao Yuwen , Zhou Xiaoting , Li Kai , Yi Minhan , Guo Jifeng , Yan Xinxiang , Tang Beisha , Sun Qiying
Published: August 2017

Essential tremor (ET) is the most common tremor disorder. Evidences indicated that genetics plays an essential role in the researches of etiology. A new genome-wide association study (GWAS) from European population identified three novel loci in ET, which were rs10937625 in STK32B, rs17590046 in PPARGC1A, and rs12764057, rs10822974 and rs7903491 in CTNNA3. Due to the different genetic background in different population, we performed a case-control study to investigate these variants in a cohort of 533 subjects in Chinese population. We found a significant difference in the distributions of genotypes and alleles frequencies between ET and control groups of rs10937625 (genotype p = 0.037, OR = 0.69[0.48–0.98]; allele p = 0.033, OR = 0.82[0.69–0.99]) and rs7903491 (genotype p = 0.030, OR = 1.34[1.03–1.74]; allele p = 0.029, OR = 1.16[1.02–1.32]) after adjusted for age and gender. And no associations were detected between rs17590046 (genotype p = 0.794; allele p = 0.791), rs12764057 (genotype p = 0.337; allele p = 0.337), rs10822974 (genotype p = 0.102; allele p = 0.100) and ET in Chinese population individually. Our research supports that C allele of rs10937625 in STK32B is a protective factor and G allele of rs7903491 in CTNNA3 is a risk factor for ET in Chinese population.
Ultrathin polydopamine film coated gold nanoparticles: a sensitive, uniform, and stable SHINERS substrate for detection of benzotriazole
Authors: Ye Weichun , Huang Hong , Yang Weiwei , Wang Xiang , Ren Cuiling , Hu Qiushi , Li Yumin , Ren Bin
Published: August 2017

Gold@PDA nanoparticles utilized as a SHINERS substrate for the detection of benzotriazole with excellent sensitivity and stability.
Growth mechanism of AlN on hexagonal BN/sapphire substrate by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Wu Qingqing , Yan Jianchang , Zhang Liang , Chen Xiang , Wei Tongbo , Li Yang , Liu Zhiqiang , Wei Xuecheng , Zhang Yun , Wang Junxi , Li Jinmin
Published: August 2017

The growth mechanism and dislocation behavior of AlN on monolayer hBN materials without/with O2plasma treatment by MOCVD.
Total CCl4 guest alignment in a quasiracemic clathrate closely related to Dianin's compound
Authors: Frampton Christopher S. , Gall James H. , MacNicol David D.
Published: August 2017

In the trigonal CCl4quasiracemic clathrate, space group R3, formed from host components S-(−)-Dianin's compound, 4, and its (+)-2R,4R 2-nor methyl analogue, 2, the unprecedented complete ordering of a C–Cl bond of the guest with respect to the c-axial direction and the participation of an unexpected host conformation is reported for the first time.
Coating agent-induced mechanical behavior of 3D self-assembled nanocrystals
Authors: Çolak Arzu , Wei Jingjing , Arfaoui Imad , Pileni Marie-Paule
Published: August 2017

The Young's modulus of three-dimensional self-assembled Ag nanocrystals, as so-called supracrystals, is correlated with the type of coating agent as well as the nanocrystal morphology.
CO2 hydrogenation to higher hydrocarbons on K/Fe–Al–O spinel catalysts promoted with Si, Ti, Zr, Hf, Mn and Ce
Authors: Samanta A. , Landau M. V. , Vidruk-Nehemya R. , Herskowitz M.
Published: August 2017

Si and Zr species grafted on Fe–Al–O catalysts act as an inhibitor and promoter, respectively, in CO2 hydrogenation.
Technetium-99m based small molecule radiopharmaceuticals and radiotracers targeting inflammation and infection
Authors: Kniess Torsten , Laube Markus , Wüst Frank , Pietzsch Jens
Published: August 2017

99mTc-labeled antibiotics, antifungal drugs, antimicrobial peptides and COX-2 inhibitors are comprehensively reviewed.
The influence of metal centres on the exchange interaction in heterometallic complexes with oxalate-bridged cations
Authors: Androš Dubraja Lidija , Jurić Marijana , Torić Filip , Pajić Damir
Published: August 2017

A series of complexes with [{M(phen)2}2(μ-C2O4)]2+ cations (M = Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn) and bis(oxalate)chromium(iii) anions is synthesised. Magnetic exchange interactions mediated through oxalate bridge in the homodinuclear cations have been discussed.
Role of phytochemicals in the modulation of miRNA expression in cancer
Authors: Debnath Trishna , Deb Nath Narayan Chandra , Kim Eun-Kyung , Lee Kwang-Geun
Published: August 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are single-stranded non-coding endogenous RNAs. They act as tumour suppressors and oncogenes in tumorigenesis. Phytochemicals have a unique capability to regulate the expression of miRNAs in various cancers.
Kinetic study of navy blue photocatalytic degradation over Ag3PO4/BiPO4@MIL-88B(Fe)@g-C3N4 core@shell nanocomposite under visible light irradiation
Authors: Gholizadeh Khasevani Sepideh , Mohaghegh N. , Gholami M. R.
Published: August 2017

Herein, a novel quaternary Ag3PO4/BiPO4@MIL-88B(Fe)@g-C3N4 (AB@MIL-88B(Fe)@g-CN) nanocomposite with a core@shell structure is successfully fabricated in two simple steps.
Pioneering Investigators 2017
Authors: Harth Eva , Pentzer Emily
Published: August 2017

This themed issue of Polymer Chemistry highlights the work of pioneering investigators in the polymer chemistry field. Associate Editors Emily Pentzer and Eva Harth introduce the issue.
Identification of potential tubulin polymerization inhibitors by 3D-QSAR, molecular docking and molecular dynamics
Authors: Wang Tian Chi , Cheng Li Ping , Huang Xin Ying , Zhao Lei , Pang Wan
Published: August 2017

View of the correlation between experimental and predicted pIC50c values, and the compound 22c docked into the binding site of 3UT5.
Melatonin-enhanced biosynthesis of antimicrobial AgNPs by improving the phytochemical reducing potential of a callus culture of Ocimum basilicum L. var. thyrsiflora
Authors: Sumaira Sumaira , Khan Tariq , Abbasi Bilal Haider , Afridi Muhammad Siddique , Tanveer Faouzia , Ullah Ikram , Bashir Samina , Hano Christophe
Published: August 2017

We describe the synthesis of AgNPs usingOcimum basilicumL. var.thyrsifloraleaf derived callus extracts formed in response to thidiazuron alone and a combination of TDZ melatonin which act both as reducing and stabilizing agents.
Enhanced persistent properties of Mn2+ activated CaZnOS
Authors: Zheng Yinjian , Zhang Haiming , Zhang Haoran , Zhang Xuejie , Liu Yingliang , Lei Bingfu
Published: August 2017

The red emitting CaZnOS:Mn2+ long persistent phosphor was successfully prepared via a conventional high-temperature solid-state reaction method.
Production of acetic acid from ethanol over CuCr catalysts via dehydrogenation-(aldehyde–water shift) reaction
Authors: Xiang Ning , Xu Peng , Ran Nianbo , Ye Tongqi
Published: August 2017

An oxidant-free route for the production of acetic acid from ethanol.
A dual-functional NaLuF4:Yb3+/Er3+ material for enhancing photon harvesting in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Guo Haiyong , Hu Zhen , Zhao Li , Wan Li , Wu Yadan , Wang Shimin
Published: August 2017

A new strategy to improve the efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells by using the external near-infrared light harvesting and light-scattering dual-functional upconversion (UC) material NaLuF4:Yb3+/Er3+ is proposed.
Low-cost solution-processed digenite Cu9S5 counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Hu Maowei , Yu Ze , Li JiaJia , Jiang Xiaoqing , Lai Jianbo , Yang Xichuan , Wang Mei , Sun Licheng
Published: August 2017

Cu9S5 nanocrystalline film is fabricated by a solution-processed method with a low temperature post-treatment at 250 °C and it is further explored as a counter electrode (CE) material in DSSCs.
An in situ iodine-doped graphene/silicon composite paper as a highly conductive and self-supporting electrode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Cheng , Wu Mengqiang , Wang Sizhe , Yang Jian , Qin Jingang , Peng Zhi , Feng Tingting , Gong Feng
Published: August 2017

A highly conductive, highly flexible, self-supporting, and binder-free rGO/Si composite paper with superior electrochemical performance was obtainedvia in situiodine doping and used as electrodes for flexible LIBs.
Synthesis of the Src SH2 domain and its application in bioassays for mirror-image screening
Authors: Shu Keitou , Noguchi Taro , Honda Kaori , Kondoh Yasumitsu , Osada Hiroyuki , Ohno Hiroaki , Fujii Nobutaka , Oishi Shinya
Published: August 2017

Mirror-image screening systems for Src SH2 domain inhibitors were established using a synthetic Src SH2 domain.
Highly porous carbon nanofibers co-doped with fluorine and nitrogen for outstanding supercapacitor performance
Authors: Na Wonjoo , Jun Jaemoon , Park Jin Wook , Lee Gyeongseop , Jang Jyongsik
Published: August 2017

One-dimensional nitrogen and fluorine co-doped mesoporous carbon nanofibers (NFMCNFs) were fabricated for energy storage electrodes with high specific capacitance and long-term cycle stability.
A solution-processable copper(ii) phthalocyanine derivative as a dopant-free hole-transporting material for efficient and stable carbon counter electrode-based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Jiang Xiaoqing , Yu Ze , Li Hai-Bei , Zhao Yawei , Qu Jishuang , Lai Jianbo , Ma Wanying , Wang Dongping , Yang Xichuan , Sun Licheng
Published: August 2017

A solution-processable copper(ii) phthalocyanine derivative CuPc-TIPS has been explored as a dopant-free hole-transporting material in carbon counter electrode-based perovskite solar cells.
Facile and fast fabrication of iron-phosphate supported on nickel foam as a highly efficient and stable oxygen evolution catalyst
Authors: Zhong Dazhong , Liu Lin , Li Dandan , Wei Congcong , Wang Qiang , Hao Genyan , Zhao Qiang , Li Jinping
Published: August 2017

An Fe–Pi/NF catalyst for a highly efficient and stable oxygen evolution reaction is fabricated by a facile and fast method.
Na–Mn–O@C yolk–shell nanorods as an ultrahigh electrochemical performance anode for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Li Jiannian , Yu Jun , Amiinu Ibrahim Saana , Zhang Jie , Sheng Jinzhi , Kou Zongkui , Wang Zhe , Yu Qiang , Mai Liqiang , Mu Shichun
Published: August 2017

By virtue of its unique yolk–shell structure and composition, the as-built Na0.55Mn2O4·1.5H2O@C electrode endows LIBs with attractive electrochemical performances.
Clinical Characteristics in a Sample of Transsexual People
Authors: Lerri Maria Rita , Romão Adriana Peterson Mariano Salata , Santos Manoel Antônio dos , Giami Alain , Ferriani Rui Alberto , Lara Lúcia Alves da Silva
Published: August 2017

Purpose To assess the clinical characteristics of subjects with gender dysphoria (GD).

Method A cross-sectional study of adults with GD. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Sociodemographic data, clinical data and life habits were recorded.

Results Total of 44 subjects participated in the study: 36 (82%) trans women and 8 (18%) trans men. Forty-three (98%) of the GD patients had anxiety (36 [100%] trans women and 7 [87.5%] trans men), and 36 (82%) had depression (29 [80.5%] trans women and 7 [87.5%] trans men). Suicide had been attempted by 32 (73%) subjects. The rates of depression were lower among the subjects living with partners, parents, or other people than among those living alone (p = 0.03), and it was also lower among the subjects who were married compared to those who were dating or single (p = 0.03).

Conclusion Improving the relationship status may reduce the prevalence of depressive symptoms in GD patients. There was a high rate of attempted suicide in this sample.
Physical Activity during Pregnancy: Recommendations and Assessment Tools
Authors: Oliveira Cibele Santini de , Imakawa Thiago dos Santos , Moisés Elaine Christine Dantas
Published: August 2017

The literature that supports and recommends the practice of exercise during pregnancy is extensive.However, although a more complete research on ways to evaluate the physical activity performed by pregnant women has been perfomed, it is found that there is no gold standard and that the articles in the area are inconclusive. Thus, the objective of the present article is to review relevant aspects, such as, technique and applicability of the different methods for the assessment of physical activity during pregnancy to provide more reliable and safe information for health professionals to encourage their pregnant patients to engage in the practice of physical activity. This review concluded that all tools for the analysis of physical activity have limitations. Thus, it is necessary to establish the objectives of evaluation in an appropriate manner, as well as to determine their viability and cost-effectiveness for the population under study.
Ocular Changes During Pregnancy
Authors: Marcos-Figueiredo Pedro , Marcos-Figueiredo Ana , Menéres Pedro , Braga Jorge
Published: August 2017

Pregnancy is needed for the perpetuation of the human species, and it leads to physiological adaptations of the various maternal organs and systems. The eye, although a closed space, also undergoes some modifications, most of which are relatively innocuous, but they may occasionally become pathological. For women, pregnancy is a susceptibility period; however, for many obstetricians, their knowledge of the ocular changes that occur during pregnancy tends to be limited. For this reason, this is a important area of study as is necessary the development of guidelines to approach those changes. Of equal importance are the knowledge of the possible therapies for ophthalmological problems in this period and the evaluation of the mode of delivery in particular conditions. For this article, an extensive review of the literature was performed, and a summary of the findings is presented.
Hearing Disorders in Congenital Toxoplasmosis: A Literature Review
Authors: Corrêa Camila , Maximino Luciana , Weber Silke
Published: August 2017

Introduction Several studies show correlations between congenital toxoplasmosis and hearing loss, with a broad diversity of levels of hearing loss and specifications of hearing disorders.

Objective To describe the studies found in the literature regarding hearing disorders in congenital toxoplasmosis.

Data Synthesis A literature review was conducted on the Lilacs, SciELO, PubMed and Scopus databases by combining the following keywords: congenital toxoplasmosis and hearing. Based on this search strategy, 152 papers were found, the majority published on the Scopus and PubMed databases from 1958 to 2015. After the application of the inclusion criteria, 8 articles published between 1980 and 2015 were included in the present study.

Conclusion This review showed a moderate evidence of the association between hearing disorders and congenital toxoplasmosis, which is characterized by sensorineural hearing loss. However, there are gaps in the description of the specific characteristics of the type and level of hearing loss, or of other possible disorders involved in the auditory processing.
Immuntherapie von Hirntumoren
Authors: Roth Patrick , Weller Michael
Published: August 2017

Immuntherapeutische Behandlungsansätze bei Hirntumoren werden schon seit Jahrzehnten als potenziell hilfreich und attraktiv angesehen. Im Gegensatz zum erheblich gestiegenen Verständnis der immunologischen Grundlagen von Tumoren im Gehirn waren die klinischen Fortschritte jedoch lange Zeit vergleichsweise bescheiden. Diese Situation hat sich in den letzten Jahren grundlegend geändert, u. a. durch die Entwicklung neuartiger Vakzinierungskonzepte. Impfstoffe, die aus einem oder mehreren Peptiden bestehen, befinden sich in einem fortgeschrittenen Stadium der klinischen Entwicklung zur Behandlung von Gliomen. Im Rahmen individualisierter Konzepte wird zudem versucht, Vakzinen herzustellen, deren Zusammensetzung auf einer umfangreichen Analyse des Tumorgewebes basiert und somit tumor- bzw. patientenspezifisch ist. Parallel wird derzeit in der Neuroonkologie die Wirksamkeit von Immun-Checkpoint-Inhibitoren untersucht. Diese Medikamente interagieren mit Immunzellrezeptoren, z. B. CTLA-4 oder PD-1, bzw. den dazugehörigen Liganden und sorgen für stärkere und anhaltende Immunantworten, u. a. auch gegen Tumorzellen. Mittlerweile sind immer mehr Daten verfügbar, die nahelegen, dass diese Immuntherapeutika bei Hirnmetastasen wirksam sein können. Unklar ist aber noch, ob auch Patienten mit primären Hirntumoren, z. B. Glioblastomen, von diesem Therapieansatz profitieren. Mehrere Studien untersuchen derzeit den Einsatz von Immun-Checkpoint-Inhibitoren allein oder in Kombination mit Strahlen- bzw. Chemotherapie bei Patienten mit neu diagnostiziertem oder rezidiviertem Glioblastom. Die Ergebnisse der laufenden Studien werden zeigen, ob sich immuntherapeutische Behandlungsansätze in Zukunft als Ergänzung zu den bisher zur Verfügung stehenden Therapieoptionen in der Neuro-Onkologie etablieren können.
Kalziumhomöostase in der Multiplen Sklerose
Authors: Hundehege Petra , Epping Lisa , Meuth Sven
Published: August 2017

Kalzium ist als Signalmolkül entscheidend für nahezu alle zellulären Prozesse. Eine Störung der Kalziumhomöostase ist ursächlich für eine Vielzahl von pathologischen Zuständen. Dieser Übersichtsartikel fasst rezente Erkenntnisse über den Einfluss von Kalzium in der Multiplen Sklerose zusammen.
Variability in, and factors associated with, sizing of polyps by endoscopists at a large community practice
Authors: Elwir Saleh , Shaukat Aasma , Shaw Michael , Hughes John , Colton Joshua
Published: August 2017

Background and aims Accurate sizing of polyps at time of colonoscopy is critical for determining surveillance intervals. Endoscopists routinely over- or underestimate the size of polyps at colonoscopy. We evaluated the variability in sizing of polyps among multiple endoscopists, and the effect of patient and physician related factors on polyp size estimation in a large community-based practice.

Methods Adult patients who underwent a colonoscopy with polypectomy at five endoscopy centers in Minneapolis/St. Paul by one of 52 endoscopists in 2013 were included in this study. Association of patient, physician, and procedure related factors on polyp sizing was assessed.

Results In the study time frame, 38 624 colonoscopies were performed at five ambulatory endoscopy centers. Of these, 16 336 had one or more polyp removed with size information available, and were included in this analysis. There was significant inter-physician variation for estimating polyp sizes larger than 5 mm (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 0.13). Older patient age (OR 1.08, 95 %CI 1.06 – 1.11), and male physician gender (OR 1.92, 95 %CI 1.26 – 2.94) were associated with increased odds of physicians sizing polyps as larger in size. Surveillance procedures had a higher odds of larger polyp sizing compared to screening (OR 0.91, 95 %CI 0.86 – 0.97) and diagnostic procedures (OR 0.86, 95 %CI 0.78 – 0.94).

Conclusion In a large community setting, variation of polyp sizing estimates exists between physicians. Male physicians were more likely to size polyps as larger in size. Older patients and patients undergoing surveillance procedures were more likely to have polyps that were sized as larger in size.
Use of endocytoscopy for identification of sessile serrated adenoma/polyps and hyperplastic polyps by quantitative image analysis of the luminal areas
Authors: Ogawa Yushi , Kudo Shin-ei , Mori Yuichi , Ikehara Nobunao , Maeda Yasuharu , Wakamura Kunihiko , Misawa Masashi , Kudo Toyoki , Hayashi Takemasa , Miyachi Hideyuki , Katagiri Atsushi , Ishida Fumio , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: August 2017

Background and study aims Recent studies that used magnifying chromoendoscopy and endocytoscopy (EC) to investigate endoscopic features of sessile serrated adenoma/polyps (SSA/Ps) suggested that a dilated crypt opening was an important indicator of SSA/Ps. However, no studies to date have measured the actual extent of dilatation. Hence, we investigated retrospectively the luminal areas using EC to determine a cutoff value for differentiating SSA/Ps from hyperplastic polyps (HPs).

Patients and methods A total of 101 lesions, including 25 SSA/Ps, 66 HPs, and 10 normal mucosal samples, assessed by an integrated-type EC were collected. For each lesion, 1 image that showed the widest lumen was selected and the average area of the contiguous 3 lumens were calculated. The cutoff value differentiating SSAPs from HPs was determined by receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis.

Results The mean luminal areas of SSA/Ps and HPs were 4152 μm2 and 2117 μm2, respectively. ROC analysis found that a luminal area cutoff of 3068 μm2 had a sensitivity of 80.0 %, a specificity of 77.3 %, an accuracy of 78.0 %, and an area under the ROC curve of 0.865. Furthermore, a cutoff of ≥ 556 μm2 was found to accurately distinguish between HPs and normal mucosa (sensitivity 98.5 %, specificity 100 %, accuracy 98.7 %, and AUC 0.998).

Conclusions EC analysis of the luminal area is useful for differentiating between SSAPs and HPs. This approach could be adapted for computer-aided diagnosis of SSA/P.
A simple endoscopic scoring system to differentiate between duodenal adenoma and carcinoma
Authors: Kakushima Naomi , Yoshida Masao , Iwai Tomohiro , Kawata Noboru , Tanaka Masaki , Takizawa Kohei , Ito Sayo , Imai Kenichiro , Hotta Kinichi , Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Matsubayashi Hiroyuki , Ono Hiroyuki , Sasaki Keiko
Published: August 2017

Background and study aims Diagnosis of nonampullary duodenal low grade adenoma (Vienna classification category 3, VCL 3) and high grade adenoma/carcinoma (VCL 4 or higher) is important for clinical management decisions. However, there are no criteria based on which endoscopic diagnosis can differentiate between VCL3 and VCL4 or higher. This study aimed to establish simple diagnostic criteria to differentiate between VCL3 and VCL4 or higher.

Patients and methods This retrospective study included patients with superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (NADETs) who underwent tumor resection between June 2004 and November 2016 at a single cancer center hospital. Using patient demographics and endoscopic findings from 2004 to 2013, variables related to the final histology of VCL4 or higher were analyzed, and a predictive model was developed. Validation analysis was performed on patients treated between 2014 and 2016.

Results A total of 150 lesions in 134 patients were included. Lesion diameter, reddish color, depression, heterogeneous or no nodularity, and mixed or depressed macroscopic types were significantly predictive of VCL4 or higher. A predictive score model was developed and a score of 3 points was defined as an appropriate cutoff for predicting VCL4 or higher. In the validation analysis, the accuracy rate of VCL4 or higher diagnosis was 86 % when the score was ≥ 3 points. Scores between patients with VCL3 and VCL4 or higher were significantly different (P = 0.0004).

Conclusions A simple and useful endoscopic scoring system was developed to preoperatively differentiate between VCL3 and VCL4 or higher among superficial NADETs.
Observations of a helium-air gas-confined barrier discharge operated in diffuse mode
Authors: Wu Shuqun , Dong Xi , Mao Wenhao , Yue Yuanfu , Jiang Jun , Zhang Chaohai , Lu Xinpei
Published: August 2017

With ambient air instead of solid dielectric operating as the insulating layer, a diffuse helium/air gas-confined barrier discharge with a coaxial jet configuration is demonstrated for the first time. The effects of the helium gas flow rate, the diameter, and the vertical position of the helium gas flow on the breakdown characteristics of the diffuse mode are investigated. As the applied voltage increases, a diffuse plasma layer is first ignited within the helium gas column followed by a typical filamentary discharge bridging the whole gap. With the replacement of ambient air by N2 or O2 gas, the diffuse mode can be achieved with relatively lower breakdown voltage in the case of N2 gas while it is not observable in the case of O2 gas. The dynamics of the diffuse discharge show that the plasma front crosses the helium gas column vertically at an average velocity of ∼104 m/s, and then splits into two horizontally counter-propagating plasma fronts with the dark channel left behind.
Broadband planar multilayered absorbers tuned by VO2 phase transition
Authors: Peng Hao , Ji Chunhui , Lu Lulu , Li Zhe , Li Haoyang , Wang Jun , Wu Zhiming , Jiang Yadong , Xu Jimmy , Liu Zhijun
Published: August 2017

The metal-insulator transition makes vanadium dioxide an attractive material for developing reconfigurable optoelectronic components. Here we report on dynamically tunable broadband absorbers consisting of planar multilayered thin films. By thermally triggering the phase transition of vanadium dioxide, the effective impedance of multilayered structures is tuned in or out of the condition of impedance matching to free-space, leading to switchable broadband absorptions. Two types of absorbers are designed and demonstrated by using either the insulating or metallic state of vanadium dioxide at the impedance matched condition. The planar multilayered absorbers exhibit tunable absorption bands over the wavelength ranges of 5–9.3 μm and 3.9–8.2 μm, respectively. A large modulation depth up to 88% is measured. The demonstrated broadband absorbance tunability is of potential interest for reconfigurable bolometric sensing, camouflaging, and modulation of mid-infrared lights.
Brownian dynamics of a protein-polymer chain complex in a solid-state nanopore
Authors: Wells Craig C. , Melnikov Dmitriy V. , Gracheva Maria E.
Published: August 2017

We study the movement of a polymer attached to a large protein inside a nanopore in a thin silicon dioxide membrane submerged in an electrolyte solution. We use Brownian dynamics to describe the motion of a negatively charged polymer chain of varying lengths attached to a neutral protein modeled as a spherical bead with a radius larger than that of the nanopore, allowing the chain to thread the nanopore but preventing it from translocating. The motion of the protein-polymer complex within the pore is also compared to that of a freely translocating polymer. Our results show that the free polymer’s standard deviations in the direction normal to the pore axis is greater than that of the protein-polymer complex. We find that restrictions imposed by the protein, bias, and neighboring chain segments aid in controlling the position of the chain in the pore. Understanding the behavior of the protein-polymer chain complex may lead to methods that improve molecule identification by increasing the resolution of ionic current measurements.
Adaptive coarse graining method for energy transfer and dissociation kinetics of polyatomic species
Authors: Sahai A. , Lopez B. , Johnston C. O. , Panesi M.
Published: August 2017

A novel reduced-order method is presented for modeling reacting flows characterized by strong non-equilibrium of the internal energy level distribution of chemical species in the gas. The approach seeks for a reduced-order representation of the distribution function by grouping individual energy states into macroscopic bins, and then reconstructing state population using the maximum entropy principle. This work introduces an adaptive grouping methodology to identify and lump together groups of states that are likely to equilibrate faster with respect to each other. To this aim, two algorithms have been considered: the modified island algorithm and the spectral clustering method. Both methods require a measure of dissimilarity between internal energy states. This is achieved by defining “metrics” based on the strength of the elementary rate coefficients included in the state-specific kinetic mechanism. Penalty terms are used to avoid grouping together states characterized by distinctively different energies. The two methods are used to investigate excitation and dissociation of N2 (Σg+1) molecules due to interaction with N(Su4) atoms in an ideal chemical reactor. The results are compared with a direct numerical simulation of the state-specific kinetics obtained by solving the master equations for the complete set of energy levels. It is found that adaptive grouping techniques outperform the more conventional uniform energy grouping algorithm by providing a more accurate description of the distribution function, mole fraction and energy profiles during non-equilibrium relaxation.
Highly oscillatory waves in quasilinear hyperbolic-parabolic coupled equations
Authors: Meng Yiping , Wang Ya-Guang
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we study the Cauchy problem for a two-speed quasi-linear hyperbolic-parabolic coupled system in several space variables with highly oscillatory initial data and small viscosity. By means of nonlinear geometric optics, we derive the asymptotic expansions of oscillatory waves and deduce that the leading oscillation profiles satisfy quasilinear hyperbolic-parabolic coupled equations with integral terms, from which we obtain that the oscillations of the solutions to the hyperbolic-parabolic equations are propagated along the characteristics of the hyperbolic operators, and partial profiles of oscillations are dissipated by the parabolic effect of the system. Furthermore, by using the energy method in weighted spaces, we rigorously justify the asymptotic expansion and obtain the existence of the highly oscillatory solutions in a time interval independent of the wavelength. Finally, we use this general result to study the behavior of oscillatory waves in the one dimensional compressible viscous flows and in a two-dimensional hyperbolic-parabolic system.
Correlation electron cyclotron emission diagnostic in TCV
Authors: Fontana M. , Porte L. , Molina Cabrera P.
Published: August 2017

The correlation electron cyclotron emission diagnostic of tokamak à configuration variable has recently been upgraded. It now has the choice of three lines of sight: two horizontal lines placed on the low field side of the vessel, perpendicular to the magnetic field, and a dual-axis steerable antenna. The polarization of the radiation collected by the latter can be rotated using a universal polarizer situated in the transmission line. This line is also shared with a reflectometry system, allowing simultaneous measurements of temperature and density fluctuations in the same plasma volumes. When using this line, it is possible to choose between two dedicated front ends characterized by different local oscillator frequencies, adding flexibility in the choice of the plasma region to be studied. The intermediate frequency section is now equipped with six frequency tunable YIG filters allowing the study of turbulence properties in a wide range of radial positions. When studying fluctuations over the whole video bandwidth, the minimum detectable fluctuation level is δTe/Te∼0.5%. The new system has been used to measure electron temperature fluctuations over a large fraction of the plasma profiles in a series of plasmas with triangularity varying from 0.6 to −0.6 but comparable collisionality profiles.
Topology optimized and 3D printed polymer-bonded permanent magnets for a predefined external field
Authors: Huber C. , Abert C. , Bruckner F. , Pfaff C. , Kriwet J. , Groenefeld M. , Teliban I. , Vogler C. , Suess D.
Published: August 2017

Topology optimization offers great opportunities to design permanent magnetic systems that have specific external field characteristics. Additive manufacturing of polymer-bonded magnets with an end-user 3D printer can be used to manufacture permanent magnets with structures that had been difficult or impossible to manufacture previously. This work combines these two powerful methods to design and manufacture permanent magnetic systems with specific properties. The topology optimization framework is simple, fast, and accurate. It can also be used for the reverse engineering of permanent magnets in order to find the topology from field measurements. Furthermore, a magnetic system that generates a linear external field above the magnet is presented. With a volume constraint, the amount of magnetic material can be minimized without losing performance. Simulations and measurements of the printed systems show very good agreement.
Nanosecond laser-cluster interactions at 109−1012  W/cm2
Authors: Singh Rohtash , Tripathi V. K. , Vatsa R. K. , Das D.
Published: August 2017

An analytical model and a numerical code are developed to study the evolution of multiple charge states of ions by irradiating clusters of atoms of a high atomic number (e.g., Xe) by 1.06 μm and 0.53 μm nanosecond laser pulses of an intensity in the range of 109−1012 W/cm2. The laser turns clusters into plasma nanoballs. Initially, the momentum randomizing collisions of electrons are with neutrals, but soon these are taken over by collisions with ions. The ionization of an ion to the next higher state of ionization is taken to be caused by an energetic free electron impact, and the rates of impact ionization are suitably modelled by having an inverse exponential dependence of ionizing collision frequency on the ratio of ionization potential to electron temperature. Cluster expansion led adiabatic cooling is a major limiting mechanism on electron temperature. In the intensity range considered, ionization states up to 7 are expected with nanosecond pulses. Another possible mechanism, filamentation of the laser, has also been considered to account for the observation of higher charged states. However, filamentation is seen to be insufficient to cause substantial local enhancement in the intensity to affect electron heating rates.
Laser beam coupling with capillary discharge plasma for laser wakefield acceleration applications
Authors: Bagdasarov G. A. , Sasorov P. V. , Gasilov V. A. , Boldarev A. S. , Olkhovskaya O. G. , Benedetti C. , Bulanov S. S. , Gonsalves A. , Mao H.-S. , Schroeder C. B. , van Tilborg J. , Esarey E. , Leemans W. P. , Levato T. , Margarone D. , Korn G.
Published: August 2017

One of the most robust methods, demonstrated to date, of accelerating electron beams by laser-plasma sources is the utilization of plasma channels generated by the capillary discharges. Although the spatial structure of the installation is simple in principle, there may be some important effects caused by the open ends of the capillary, by the supplying channels etc., which require a detailed 3D modeling of the processes. In the present work, such simulations are performed using the code MARPLE. First, the process of capillary filling with cold hydrogen before the discharge is fired, through the side supply channels is simulated. Second, the simulation of the capillary discharge is performed with the goal to obtain a time-dependent spatial distribution of the electron density near the open ends of the capillary as well as inside the capillary. Finally, to evaluate the effectiveness of the beam coupling with the channeling plasma wave guide and of the electron acceleration, modeling of the laser-plasma interaction was performed with the code INF&RNO.
Study on moving filaments in honeycomb pattern in dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Cui Yiqian , Dong Lifang , Gao Xing , Wei Lingyan , Liu Weibo , Feng Jianyu , Pan Yuyang
Published: August 2017

We report on the study of moving filaments in a honeycomb pattern in a dielectric barrier discharge system using photomultipliers, a high-speed video camera, and a spectrometer. The honeycomb pattern bifurcates from the hexagonal super-lattice pattern with increasing voltage. It is found that the honeycomb framework is composed of filaments with irregular reciprocating motion, which indicates that the honeycomb framework results from statistical self-organization. The spatiotemporal dynamics show that the pattern consists of three different sub-lattices. The plasma parameters (molecular vibrational temperature and electron density) of the pattern, determined from the optical emission spectra, show that different sub-lattices are in different plasma states. Based on these measurements, the mechanism of the movement of filaments is analyzed briefly.
Green's function-based control-oriented modeling of electric field for dielectrophoresis
Authors: Gurtner Martin , Hengster-Movric Kristian , Hurák Zdeněk
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to obtain a reliable and simple mathematical model of dielectrophoretic force for model-based feedback micromanipulation. Any such model is expected to sufficiently accurately relate the voltages (electric potentials) applied to the electrodes to the resulting forces exerted on microparticles at given locations in the workspace. This model also has to be computationally simple enough to be used in real time as required by model-based feedback control. Most existing models involve solving two- or three-dimensional mixed boundary value problems. As such, they are usually analytically intractable and have to be solved numerically instead. A numerical solution is, however, infeasible in real time, hence such models are not suitable for feedback control. We present a novel approximation of the boundary value data for which a closed-form analytical solution is feasible; we solve a mixed boundary value problem numerically off-line only once, and based on this solution, we approximate the mixed boundary conditions by Dirichlet boundary conditions. This way, we get an approximated boundary value problem allowing the application of the analytical framework of Green's functions. The thus obtained closed-form analytical solution is amenable to real-time use and closely matches the numerical solution of the original exact problem.
Ultrafast atomic-scale visualization of acoustic phonons generated by optically excited quantum dots
Authors: Vanacore Giovanni M. , Hu Jianbo , Liang Wenxi , Bietti Sergio , Sanguinetti Stefano , Carbone Fabrizio , Zewail Ahmed H.
Published: August 2017

Understanding the dynamics of atomic vibrations confined in quasi-zero dimensional systems is crucial from both a fundamental point-of-view and a technological perspective. Using ultrafast electron diffraction, we monitored the lattice dynamics of GaAs quantum dots—grown by Droplet Epitaxy on AlGaAs—with sub-picosecond and sub-picometer resolutions. An ultrafast laser pulse nearly resonantly excites a confined exciton, which efficiently couples to high-energy acoustic phonons through the deformation potential mechanism. The transient behavior of the measured diffraction pattern reveals the nonequilibrium phonon dynamics both within the dots and in the region surrounding them. The experimental results are interpreted within the theoretical framework of a non-Markovian decoherence, according to which the optical excitation creates a localized polaron within the dot and a travelling phonon wavepacket that leaves the dot at the speed of sound. These findings indicate that integration of a phononic emitter in opto-electronic devices based on quantum dots for controlled communication processes can be fundamentally feasible.
Critical roles of mTORC1 signaling and metabolic reprogramming for M-CSF–mediated myelopoiesis
Authors: Karmaus Peer W.F. , Herrada Andrés A. , Guy Cliff , Neale Geoffrey , Dhungana Yogesh , Long Lingyun , Vogel Peter , Avila Julian , Clish Clary B. , Chi Hongbo
Published: August 2017

Myelopoiesis is necessary for the generation of mature myeloid cells during homeostatic turnover and immunological insults; however, the metabolic requirements for this process remain poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that myelopoiesis, including monocyte and macrophage differentiation, requires mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling and anabolic metabolism. Loss of mTORC1 impaired myelopoiesis under steady state and dampened innate immune responses against Listeria monocytogenes infection. Stimulation of hematopoietic progenitors with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) resulted in mTORC1-dependent anabolic metabolism, which in turn promoted expression of M-CSF receptor and transcription factors PU.1 and IRF8, thereby constituting a feed-forward loop for myelopoiesis. Mechanistically, mTORC1 engaged glucose metabolism and initiated a transcriptional program involving Myc activation and sterol biosynthesis after M-CSF stimulation. Perturbation of glucose metabolism or disruption of Myc function or sterol biosynthesis impaired myeloid differentiation. Integrative metabolomic and genomic profiling further identified one-carbon metabolism as a central node in mTORC1-dependent myelopoiesis. Therefore, the interplay between mTORC1 signaling and metabolic reprogramming underlies M-CSF–induced myelopoiesis.
1. The Development of European Integration
Authors: Craig Paul , de Búrca Gráinne
Published: August 2017

All books in this flagship series contain carefully selected substantial extracts from key cases, legislation, and academic debate, providing able students with a stand-alone resource. This chapter begins with analysis of the background to European integration. The focus then shifts to analysis of the Treaties and the principal Treaty revisions from the inception of the European Economic Community (EEC) to the present day. The EEC Treaty is examined, followed by the Single European Act, and the Maastricht, Amsterdam, and Nice Treaties. The discussion continues with examination of the failed Constitutional Treaty and the successful ratification of the Lisbon Treaty. The chapter concludes with analysis of the impact of the financial crisis, followed by an overview of theories European integration offered to explain its evolution.
4. Instruments and the Hierarchy of Norms
Authors: Craig Paul , de Búrca Gráinne
Published: August 2017

All books in this flagship series contain carefully selected substantial extracts from key cases, legislation, and academic debate, providing able students with a stand-alone resource. This chapter examines two related issues: the EU’s legal and non-legal instruments; and the hierarchy of norms. The EU has a number of legal and non-legal instruments that are used to attain Union objectives. The principal legal instruments are regulations, directives, and decisions. The hierarchy of norms refers to the idea that in a legal system there will be a vertical ordering of legal acts, with those in the lower rungs of the hierarchy being subject to legal acts of a higher status. There are currently five principal tiers to the hierarchy of norms in EU law, which are, in descending order: the constituent Treaties and Charter of Rights; general principles of law; legislative acts; delegated acts; and implementing acts. The chapter discusses the meaning of these different tiers.
5. Legislation and Decision-Making
Authors: Craig Paul , de Búrca Gráinne
Published: August 2017

All books in this flagship series contain carefully selected substantial extracts from key cases, legislation, and academic debate, providing able students with a stand-alone resource. This chapter, which discusses the process by which the EU enacts legislation and makes decisions, begins by considering the making of legislative acts. This includes the Treaty rules and practice concerning the initiation of the legislative process, and how the ordinary legislative procedure, in which the Council and EP act as co-legislators, has come to occupy centre stage. The focus then shifts to the making of delegated acts followed by an analysis of how implementing acts are made. The chapter concludes with discussion of democracy in the EU, and evaluates the extent to which the EU might be said to have a democracy deficit.