bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief Exercises Affect Gene Expression in Circulating Monocytes
Authors: Wang D. , Cai F. , Ge J. , Yin L.
Published: July 2015

We aimed to give a systematic hypothesis on the functions of exercise on circulating monocytes by identifying a discrete set of genes in circulating monocytes that were altered by exercise. The microarray expression profile of GSE51835 was downloaded from gene expression omnibus (GEO) database for the identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using limma and affy packages in R language. Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed for DEGs, followed by the construction of co‐expression network and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. The top 10 nodes in PPI network were screened, and subnetwork was constructed for the key genes identification. Totally, 35 DEGs, including 2 upregulated genes and 33 downregulated genes, were identified. The enriched GO terms were mainly linked to immune response and defence response, and the enriched KEGG pathways were mainly associated with natural killer cell‐mediated cytotoxicity and graft‐versus‐host disease. Dual‐specificity phosphatase 2 (DUSP2) was identified as a key node in the co‐expression network. In the PPI network, CD247 module (CD247), chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4), granzyme B (GZMB) and perforin 1 (PRF1) were identified as key nodes. An important interaction, GZMB/PRF1, was detected. Five key genes, including DUSP2, CD247, CXCR4, GZMB and PRF1, and an interaction of GZMB/PRF1, were significant factors in the immune processes of circulating monocytes, which might be regulated by brief exercises, leading to the enhancement of immune function.
Functional Roles of N‐Linked Glycosylation of Human Matrix Metalloproteinase 9
Authors: Duellman Tyler , Burnett John , Yang Jay
Published: July 2015

Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) is a secreted endoproteinase with a critical role in the regulation of the extracellular matrix and proteolytic activation of signaling molecules. Human (h)MMP‐9 has two well‐defined N‐glycosylation sites at residues N38 and N120; however, their role has remained mostly unexplored partly because expression of the N‐glycosylation‐deficient N38S has been difficult due to a recently discovered single nucleotide polymorphism‐dependent miRNA‐mediated inhibitory mechanism. hMMP‐9 cDNA encoding amino acid substitutions at residues 38 (modified‐S38, mS38) or 120 (N120S) were created in the background of a miRNA‐binding site disrupted template and expressed by transient transfection. hMMP‐9 harboring a single mS38 replacement secreted well, whereas N120S, or a double mS38/N120S hMMP‐9 demonstrated much reduced secretion. Imaging indicated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention of the non‐secreted variants and co‐immunoprecipitation confirmed an enhanced strong interaction between the non‐secreted hMMP‐9 and the ER‐resident protein calreticulin (CALR). Removal of N‐glycosylation at residue 38 revealed an amino acid‐dependent strong interaction with CALR likely preventing unloading of the misfolded protein from the ER chaperone down the normal secretory pathway. As with other glycoproteins, N‐glycosylation strongly regulates hMMP‐9 secretion. This is mediated, however, through a novel mechanism of cloaking an N‐glycosylation‐independent strong interaction with the ER‐resident CALR.
Conjugate Heat Transfer Characteristics of a Highly Thermal-Loaded Film Cooling System in Hot and Multicomposition Gas Condition
Authors: Li Mingfei , Yin Hong , Ren Jing , Jiang Hongde
Published: July 2015

Radiation would be more important in turbine heat transfer due to higher temperature and multicomposition gas conditions in the future. The main goal of the current study is analyzing the characteristics of conjugate heat transfer considering radiation heat transfer, multicomposition gas, either with or without TBC coated. Both experimental and numerical studies were carried out. By comparing the experimental and the numerical results, it was concluded that the implemented thermal conduction/convection/radiation simulation method is valid for the cases studied. The results have shown that higher percentage of steam in the gas composition leads to higher temperature (lower normalized temperature) on the plate. With the percentage of steam in the hot gas increasing per 7%, the normalized temperature on the plate decreases about 0.02. The heat insulation effect of TBC is more obvious when the radiation effects are strong.
Optimizing the discharge voltage in magnetron sputter deposition of high quality Al-doped ZnO thin films
Authors: Meng Fanping , Peng Shou , Xu Genbao , Wang Yun , Ge Fangfang , Huang Feng
Published: July 2015

The role of negative ions in the sputter deposition of oxides can be termed negative in the sense that they typically cause radiation-induced structural damage during film growth. For magnetron sputtered Al-doped ZnO (AZO) films, efforts have been made to alleviate the radiation damage by decreasing the discharge voltage |Vd|, with ∼100 V being the lower limit explored. Here, the authors report initial results of depositing highly conductive and transparent AZO films by reducing |Vd| down to 40 V. The deposition was performed by sputtering an AZO target using dense magnetron discharges, in which an 81 MHz radio frequency power was superimposed onto a DC power applied to the cathode. The authors found an optimal |Vd| window within which high quality AZO films, with a <4 × 10−4 Ω cm resistivity, >30 cm2/(V s) Hall mobility, and >88% visible transmittance, were obtained at relatively high deposition rates (>30 nm/min). Based on the corresponding structural features, i.e., a full mass density coupled with a slight c-axis contraction along the out-of-plane direction, energetic negative ions were identified to have dominated in the structural evolution. The |Vd| window was then interpreted in terms of two competitive kinetic processes simultaneously caused by the energetic negative ions: void reduction via ballistic relocation of atoms as well as residual radiation-induced damage. The findings thus reveal a positive role (i.e., concomitant densification) played by the negative ions in growing high quality fully dense AZO films, which has been overshadowed by the excessive radiation damage induced by ions with relatively higher energies.
Risk of ‘leaky’ vaccines debated
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: July 2015

Controversial finding suggests they can speed the spread of deadly pathogens.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus panis DSM 6035
T
, First Isolated from Sourdough
Authors: Zhu Yixin , Fang Daiqiong , Shi Ding , Li Ang , Lv Longxian , Yan Ren , Yao Jian , Hua Dasong , Hu Xinjun , Guo Feifei , Wu Wenrui , Guo Jing , Chen Yanfei , Jiang Xiawei , Chen Xiaoxiao , Li Lanjuan
Published: July 2015

We report a draft genome sequence of
Lactobacillus panis
DSM 6035
T
, isolated from sourdough. The genome of this strain is 2,082,789 bp long, with 47.9% G+C content. A total of 2,047 protein-coding genes were predicted.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium europaeum Strain CSUR P1344
Authors: Phelippeau Michael , Croce Olivier , Robert Catherine , Raoult Didier , Drancourt Michel
Published: July 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of
Mycobacterium europaeum
strain CSUR P1344, a slowly growing mycobacterium of the
Mycobacterium simiae
complex and opportunistic respiratory tract colonizer and pathogen. This genome of 6,152,523 bp exhibits a 68.18% G+C content, encoding 5,814 predicted proteins and 74 RNAs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium lentiflavum CSUR P1491
Authors: Phelippeau Michael , Croce Olivier , Robert Catherine , Raoult Didier , Drancourt Michel
Published: July 2015

We announce the draft genome sequence of
Mycobacterium lentiflavum
strain CSUR P1491, a nontuberculous mycobacterium responsible for opportunistic potentially life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients. The genome described here comprises a 6,818,507-bp chromosome exhibiting a 65.75% G+C content, 6,354 protein-coding genes, and 75 RNA genes.
Transmission and Progression to Disease of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Phylogenetic Lineages in The Netherlands
Authors: Nebenzahl-Guimaraes Hanna , Verhagen Lilly M. , Borgdorff Martien W. , van Soolingen Dick
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to determine if mycobacterial lineages affect infection risk, clustering, and disease progression among
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
cases in The Netherlands. Multivariate negative binomial regression models adjusted for patient-related factors and stratified by patient ethnicity were used to determine the association between phylogenetic lineages and infectivity (mean number of positive contacts around each patient) and clustering (as defined by number of secondary cases within 2 years after diagnosis of an index case sharing the same fingerprint) indices. An estimate of progression to disease by each risk factor was calculated as a bootstrapped risk ratio of the clustering index by the infectivity index. Compared to the Euro-American reference,
Mycobacterium africanum
showed significantly lower infectivity and clustering indices in the foreign-born population, while
Mycobacterium bovis
showed significantly lower infectivity and clustering indices in the native population. Significantly lower infectivity was also observed for the East African Indian lineage in the foreign-born population. Smear positivity was a significant risk factor for increased infectivity and increased clustering. Estimates of progression to disease were significantly associated with age, sputum-smear status, and behavioral risk factors, such as alcohol and intravenous drug abuse, but not with phylogenetic lineages. In conclusion, we found evidence of a bacteriological factor influencing indicators of a strain's transmissibility, namely, a decreased ability to infect and a lower clustering index in ancient phylogenetic lineages compared to their modern counterparts. Confirmation of these findings via follow-up studies using tuberculin skin test conversion data should have important implications on
M. tuberculosis
control efforts.
Human Dendritic Cell Response Signatures Distinguish 1918, Pandemic, and Seasonal H1N1 Influenza Viruses
Authors: Hartmann Boris M. , Thakar Juilee , Albrecht Randy A. , Avey Stefan , Zaslavsky Elena , Marjanovic Nada , Chikina Maria , Fribourg Miguel , Hayot Fernand , Schmolke Mirco , Meng Hailong , Wetmur James , García-Sastre Adolfo , Kleinstein Steven H. , Sealfon Stuart C.
Published: July 2015

Influenza viruses continue to present global threats to human health. Antigenic drift and shift, genetic reassortment, and cross-species transmission generate new strains with differences in epidemiology and clinical severity. We compared the temporal transcriptional responses of human dendritic cells (DC) to infection with two pandemic (A/Brevig Mission/1/1918, A/California/4/2009) and two seasonal (A/New Caledonia/20/1999, A/Texas/36/1991) H1N1 influenza viruses. Strain-specific response differences included stronger activation of NF-κB following infection with A/New Caledonia/20/1999 and a unique cluster of genes expressed following infection with A/Brevig Mission/1/1918. A common antiviral program showing strain-specific timing was identified in the early DC response and found to correspond with reported transcript changes in blood during symptomatic human influenza virus infection. Comparison of the global responses to the seasonal and pandemic strains showed that a dramatic divergence occurred after 4 h, with only the seasonal strains inducing widespread mRNA loss.

IMPORTANCEContinuously evolving influenza viruses present a global threat to human health; however, these host responses display strain-dependent differences that are incompletely understood. Thus, we conducted a detailed comparative study assessing the immune responses of human DC to infection with two pandemic and two seasonal H1N1 influenza strains. We identified in the immune response to viral infection both common and strain-specific features. Among the stain-specific elements were a time shift of the interferon-stimulated gene response, selective induction of NF-κB signaling by one of the seasonal strains, and massive RNA degradation as early as 4 h postinfection by the seasonal, but not the pandemic, viruses. These findings illuminate new aspects of the distinct differences in the immune responses to pandemic and seasonal influenza viruses.
R5 Macrophage-Tropic HIV-1 in the Male Genital Tract
Authors: Bednar Maria M. , Hauser Blake M. , Ping Li-Hua , Dukhovlinova Elena , Zhou Shuntai , Arrildt Kathryn T. , Hoffman Irving F. , Eron Joseph J. , Cohen Myron S. , Swanstrom Ronald
Published: July 2015

The entry tropism of HIV-1 Env proteins from virus isolated from the blood and genital tract of five men with compartmentalized lineages was determined. The Env proteins isolated from the genital tract of subject C018 were macrophage-tropic proteins, while the remaining cloned
env
genes encoded R5 T cell-tropic proteins. The detection of a macrophage-tropic lineage of HIV-1 within the male genital tract strongly suggests that evolution of macrophage-tropic viruses can occur in anatomically isolated sites outside the central nervous system.
Theoretical investigation of dielectric properties of rare earth stillwellite compounds
Authors: Shaltaf R. , Khalifeh J.
Published: July 2015

Ab initio density functional calculations are performed to investigate the dielectric properties of LnBSiO 5 (Ln = Ce, Pr, Nd) with the stillwellite structure. The calculated structural parameters are found to agree well with existing experimental results. The three compounds possess insulating electronic structure with nearly isotropic high frequency dielectric permittivity tensors. On the other hand, the static dielectric permittivity tensors are found to be less isotropic. The anisotropy of static dielectric tensors are found to increase as the atomic number of the lanthanide increases.
The generation of accelerated electrons in the nanosecond discharge in the short interelectrode gap
Authors: Ashurbekov N. A. , Iminov K. O. , Taibov K. T. , Yusupova G. M.
Published: July 2015

Electrical, optical and polarization characteristics of nanosecond discharges in the short interelectrode gap have been experimentally researched. The conditions and mechanisms of accelerated electrons formation are established. The estimates of energy, the length of accelerated electrons run and electron beam generation efficiency in the investigated discharge are obtained. The formation of electron beams is confirmed by the studies of polarization of spontaneous discharge irradiation.
F(R)-gravity and inflation
Authors: Sebastiani Lorenzo , Myrzakulov Ratbay
Published: July 2015

In this short review, we revisit inflation in F(R)-gravity. We find several F(R)-models for viable inflation by applying some reconstruction techniques. A special attention is payed in the reproduction of the last Planck satellite data. The possible generalizations of Starobinsky-like inflation are found and discussed. The early-time acceleration is analyzed in a higher derivative quantum gravitational model which mainly reduces to F(R)-gravity.
ANALYZING THE RELATIVE INFLUENCE OF SUPPLY SIDE, DEMAND SIDE AND REGULATORY FACTORS ON THE SUCCESS OF COLLABORATIVE ENERGY INNOVATION PROJECTS
Authors: RESE ALEXANDRA , KUTSCHKE ANKE , BAIER DANIEL
Published: July 2015

The analysis of the importance of supply side and demand side factors with regard to innovative behavior is quite old. In this paper, these two categories are used to distinguish and examine the relevance of several success factors for collaborative innovation projects on the firm level in the German energy sector. The literature emphasizes that solving environmental problems requires extensive technological change. On the other hand, due to higher prices the market push is weaker. Regulatory factors are therefore designed to stimulate environmental innovations. The relative influence of these three categories on project performance is investigated on the basis of a sample of 128 German collaborative energy innovation projects in the development phase using a scale-based approach and structural equation modeling at the firm level. The results confirm the importance of supply side factors followed by demand side factors. In contrast to literary assumptions, R&D subsidies played no significant role.
On approximation measures of q-exponential function
Authors: Leinonen Leena , Leinonen Marko , Matala-aho Tapani
Published: July 2015

We shall present effective approximation measures for certain infinite products related to [Formula: see text]-exponential function [Formula: see text]. There are two main targets. First we shall prove an explicit irrationality measure result for the values [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Then, if we restrict the approximations of [Formula: see text] to rational numbers of the shape [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], we may replace Bundschuh’s irrationality exponent [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text]
A novel technology to produce microalgae biomass as feedstock for biofuel, food, feed and more
Authors: Zuckerman Ohad , Herzog Ra'anan , Sharon Yoni , Yehuda Elizabeth
Published: July 2015

While microalgae oil was perceived as the preferred feedstock to supply the inelastic global demand for biofuel, industry and academia attempts to create viable microalgae-oil production processes has not reach the desired goal yet. UniVerve Ltd. has developed an innovative technological process that provides a scalable, cost effective and sustainable solution for the production of microalgae-biomass. The oil, which can be extracted with off-the-shelf wet-extraction technologies and used as an excellent feedstock for all kinds of biofuel, is expected to be produced at up to US$50 per barrel. As the biomass also contains omega-3, proteins and other valuable biomaterials that can be commercialized in the food and feed markets, a microalgae farm can serve the biofuel, food and feed industries, which currently face an increasing lack of quality feedstock at an affordable price.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION FOR TOUCH-BASED INTERACTION OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Sultana Afroza
Published: July 2015

Understanding target acquisition tasks is particularly important for older adults aged 65 years and older, as some may find touch-based interfaces more challenging due to age-related declines in motor skills. This work aims to develop novel performance evaluation measures that can assess touch-based target selection difficulties of older adults. In addition, this study intends to explore real life unconstrained target selection tasks trajectories that are collected for a longer period of time to develop such performance evaluation measures.
an emotion regulation app for school inclusion of children with ASD
Authors: Fage Charles
Published: July 2015

The inclusion of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in mainstreamed environments is critically impeded by their difficulties in self-regulating their emotions. We present the design and evaluation of a tablet-based application dedicated to supporting children with ASD in self-regulating their emotions. This system relies on well-proven (paper-based) emotion-regulation interventions, made by therapists and parents. To identifying both the design principles and mainstreamed-environment constraints, we adopted a participatory design. Preliminary results are presented relative to five children with ASD (and five control ones) who have used our system during three months in mainstreamed schools. They suggest that not only is our system successfully used autonomously in mainstreamed classrooms, but it is also efficient in supporting children to self-regulate their emotions, allowing them to sustain mainstream inclusion.
Synthesis of Spherical Graphite Particles and Their Application as Cathode Material in Dual-Ion Cells
Authors: Heckmann Andreas , Meister Paul , Meyer Hinrich Wilhelm , Rohrbach Arno , Winter Martin , Placke Tobias
Published: July 2015

In this work, carbon spheres having an average particle diameter of 0.6 µm were prepared by a simple hydrothermal synthesis method using glucose as precursor. These carbon spheres were carbonized and graphitized at different temperatures, namely 1200 °C, 2100 °C, 2400 °C and 2800 °C, in order to study the impact of the carbon structural properties, i.e. particle morphology and degree of graphitization, on the TFSI- anion intercalation behavior into these graphitized carbons used as cathode material in dual-ion cells. The structural properties of the carbon spheres, such as particle size, surface morphology, specific surface area and crystallinity after heat-treatment are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and nitrogen adsorption measurements. Consequently, the structural characteristics are correlated to the electrochemical results for application as cathode material in dual-ion cells. In this context, a high degree of graphitization is mandatory to achieve a high reversible capacity.
Biomass Based Carbon Nanospheres as Electrode Materials in Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Arie Arenst Andreas , Kristianto Hans , Halim Martin , Lee Joong-Kee
Published: July 2015

Carbon nanospheres (CNSs) are classified as nanostructured carbon materials next to Fullerenes and Carbon Nanotubes and have shown good prospects for application as alternative anodes for Lithium Ion Battery (LIB). CNSs possess some remarkable characteristics such as high specific capacity and good rate capability as anode materials in LIB. In this work, the synthesis of carbon nano-spheres onto the surface of activated carbon support was carried out by thermal assisted catalytic pyrolysis technique and utilizing palm oil as renewable and eco-friendly carbon source. The structure and morphology of the resulting nano carbons are examined with X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and cyclic test of the carbon product as an anode material for lithium ion batteries are also investigated. From TEM observations, it can be shown that CNSs has turbostratic structure in the presence of Fe-metal catalyst. The CNSs have a stable cycle performance up to 100 cycles at a constant current density of 200 mA/g, showing its potential as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries.
(Invited) Impact of Indiumand Gallium Doping on the Photovoltaic Performance of CdSe Quantum Dot Hybrid Solar Cells
Authors: Scott Randall , Kirkeminde Alec , Gong Maogang , Totleben Jennifer , Ren Shenqiang , Tuinenga Christopher , Lewis Christopher , Luo Hongfu , Higgins Daniel , Chikan Viktor
Published: July 2015

Colloidal CdSe quantum dots show great promise for fabrication of hybrid solar cells with enhanced power conversion efficiency, yet controlling the doping on the atomic length scale is challenging. Here, we demonstrate that gallium-, indium-, tin-doped CdSe quantum dots show significantly improved conductivity and charge carrier density, and also temperature dependent behavior. Furthermore, the doped CdSe hybrid solar cells greatly enhance photocurrent and photovoltage, in which the gallium doped CdSe quantum dots and P3HT bi-layer heterojunction solar cells leads to a maximum power conversion efficiency of 2.0% at elevated temperatures under AM 1.5 solar illumination. All the doped samples exhibit inverted temperature dependent power conversion of the photovoltaic cells, which could be effectively utilized in solar concentrators. The approach presented can be applied to a wide range of doped quantum dots and polymer hybrids and is compatible with solution processing, thereby offering a general tactic for improving the efficiency of quantum dot based solar cells.
Indium Tin Oxide – Silicon Nanocrystal Nanocomposite Grown by Aerosol-Assisted Chemical Vapour Deposition
Authors: O'Brien S , Linehan K , Doyle H , Kingsley A , Ashfield C , Frank B , Xie L , Leifer K , Thony P , Perraud S , Pemble M E , Povey I. M
Published: July 2015

Nanocomposite films were grown by aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition in a single deposition process using a mixture of indium tin neodecanoate and ligand stabilized silicon nanocrystals dispersed in a solvent. Samples were analysed by HRTEM and silicon nanocrystals with a density of 1.2 x 1012 cm-2 were observed. From the reconstructed 3D tomogram, the averaged distance between the nearest nanoparticles is 8.3nm and the 3D density of nanoparticles is 1.6 x 1018 cm-3. These data show the versatility of aerosol-assisted CVD in achieving a high density of nanocrystals within a polycrystalline host-matrix, meeting the density and size distribution requirements for particle inclusion in active nanocomposites for photovoltaic applications.
Effect of Sulphur on Fe-20Cr-(Mn, Si) and Fe-20Ni-20Cr-(Mn, Si) Corrosion in CO2-H2O at 650°C
Authors: Yu Chun , Nguyen Thuan Dinh , Zhang Jianqiang , Young David John
Published: July 2015

Model alloys Fe-20Cr and Fe-20Cr-20Ni (wt.%) and these alloys doped with 0.5% Si or 2% Mn were exposed to Ar-20%CO2-20%H2O-(0%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 1.0%)SO2 gas mixtures at 650 °C. Alloys of Fe-20Cr-(2Mn) and Fe-20Cr-20Ni-(0.5Si) underwent breakaway oxidation in sulphur-free gases, forming thick iron-rich oxide scales and internal carbides. SO2 additions promoted the maintenance of protective chromia scale on Fe-20Cr-(2Mn) and Fe-20Cr-20Ni-(0.5Si) alloys, but had no benefit for the already high corrosion resistance of Fe-20Cr-0.5Si and Fe-20Cr-20Ni-2Mn alloys. The role of sulphur in retarding carburization is discussed with reference to its strong adsorption on oxide grain boundaries.
SAM Assisted Nickel-Boron Electroless Metallization of PDMS
Authors: Molazemhosseini Alireza , Ieffa Simona , Vena Pasquale , Magagnin Luca
Published: July 2015

All-wet metallization of polydimethylsiloxae (PDMS) was carried out through Nickel-phosphorous-boron (NiPB) electroless deposition. Self-assembled monolayers (SAM) of n-(2-aminoethyl) 3-aminopropyl-trimethoxysilane (AEAPTMS) was used to improve the metal thin film adhesion. PDMS surface modification was achieved by sodium hydroxide (1M) immersion followed by corona treatment. Surface roughness changes were examined by atomic force microscopy (AFM) before and after each step of surface modification, silanization and metallization. Glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES) confirmed the presence of the deposited layers and activated interface. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations of PDMS/NiPB interface indicated no detachment of NiPB. Samples with three lines of NiPB on PDMS (acting as counter, reference and working electrodes) were prepared for applying as an ethanol sensor. Surface area of the working electrode was 6×6mm2. A linear range up to 600ppm with 6.9 μA.ppm-1.cm-2 sensitivity was achieved for the sensor. Lower detection limit and the response time was 20ppm and 10s.
"Nano Necklace" Formed by Electroless Deposition of Metal on Polymer Nanofiber for Flexible Transparent Conducting Films
Authors: Shiratori Seimei , Takenaka Issei , Kyung Kyuhong , Bernasconi Roberto , Testa Andrea , Magagnin Luca
Published: July 2015

Flexible transparent thin films are strongly required for electronic devices, display or electric equipment. To obtain both transparency and flexibility, electroless deposition on the polymer nanofiber was carried out. As the result, we successfully obtained uniformly metalized nanofiber with 300nm in diameter by all wet process without using any vacuum process.
The Practical Method for Monitoring Additives in Copper Electroplating Baths Using the Chronopotentiometry Technique
Authors: Kosugi Masahiro , Okubo Toshikazu
Published: July 2015

Copper electroplating is one of the key technologies for printed circuit board production. Especially additive condition in electroplating baths for filling via holes is to be controlled more precisely. We developed the practical methods for monitoring additive condition in copper electroplating baths using the chronopotentiometry technique. Chronopotentiometry technique can be applied as the supplementary method for monitoring additive conditions. The time-potential curve is obtained by the chronopotentiometry measurement, which correlates to additive condition. We have been periodically obtaining the time-potential curves for monitoring the bath conditions of filling via holes in our FC-BGA plant since 2004. We are developing two new analysis methods to monitor additive conditions. For the both methods, time-potential curves are obtained and the analysis methods are different between the two. They are hopeful for monitoring additive condition of via hole filling to improve the analysis accuracy.
Solution-Processed Light-Emitting Dielectric Films and Their Applications in Transistors
Authors: Li Jing , Dong Guifang , Duan Lian , Wang Liduo
Published: July 2015

Organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) with light emission capability have attracted attention with the development of multifunctional devices.1,2 In order to achieve tunable area emission, we employed light-emitting ionic iridium complex (Ir(ppy)2pyim)PF6, as the dielectric material. Results demonstrated that when mixed with some polymer, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), the complex could form gate dielectric films for light emitting OFETs. At low drain voltage, the FETs behaved as a normal transistor and, at high drain voltage, a controllable area light emission could be successfully achieved. The brightness could be tuned by the potential differences between three electrodes (gate, source and drain electrodes).Our study verified that ionic light-emitting complexes have potential to be used in tunable area-emitting electronic devices.
(Invited) Fuel Cell Electrocatalysis in Acid and Alkaline Media: The Role of the Electrode Potential in Active Site Generation
Authors: Gottesfeld Shimshon
Published: July 2015

This paper addresses the full dependence of the rate of electrocatalytic processes on the electrode potential. It is shown here that, for a wide variety of electrocatalytic processes, the overall effect of the electrode potential on the rate of the process includes the “ignition” of the faradaic reaction by activation of a surface redox mediator. This role of the potential is expressed in the rate equation by a potential-dependent pre-exponential factor, explaining the common observation of a potential dependent dlogJ/dE. Description of this prevalent pattern, is followed by specific examples for electrocatalysts in acid and in alkaline fuel cells , including the case of bifunctional HOR catalysts in alkaline membrane fuel cells. It is concluded that for sufficient description of an electrcatalytic system, a minimal set of “descriptors” includes; (i) the potential of the relevant surface redox mediator, (ii) the activation energy of the faradaic process at an active site at E0
CELL and, (iii) the dependence on potential of coverage by deactivating surface species
Formic Acid Electrooxidation on a Au Electrode Studied by Potential Step and Fast Scan ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Jusys Zenonas , Jürgen Behm Rolf
Published: July 2015

The electrooxidation of formic acid on a Au film electrode in perchloric acid solution was investigated under controlled and continuous mass transport conditions, employing rapid scan in situ ATR-FTIR spectroscopy measurements with 25 ms time resolution. Comparison of the dynamics and the potential dependence of adsorbed spectator species (perchlorate) and of adsorbed bridge-bonded formates and evaluation of kinetic isotope effects on the reaction characteristics provides detailed information on the reaction mechanism.
Low Cost Fabrication of High Efficiency Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Ogundana Ifedayo Joseph , Foo Simon Y. , Yu Zhibin , Bhattacharya Indranil
Published: July 2015

This paper presents a spin-coating process that makes the fabrication of polymer solar cells a low-cost and viable alternative to the costly silicon-based solar cells. The low-cost fabrication process entails spin-coating the PEDOT:PSS conducting polymer and the donor-acceptor bulk heterojunction (BHJ) layer onto the PET/ITO substrate. A cathode layer is then coated on top of the BHJ layer and the PET flexible substrate coated with ITO is the anode, the cathode and anode are the terminals needed for the generation of electricity. Spin-coating process is generally used for deposition of thin film onto flat surface where the coating material is applied on the center of the substrate to be coated. A very small quantity of the anode transport layer and BHJ blend is applied for uniformly coating the flexible substrate.
Cross-Linked Electrospun Poly(ethylene oxide) Fiber Mats as Structured Polymer-Gel Electrolytes
Authors: Forbey Scott Joel , Divoux Gilles M. , Moore Kate E , Moore Robert B
Published: July 2015

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) containing pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA) was electrospun to yield fiber mats that were subsequently crosslinked by exposure to UV irradiation. These mats were then supplemented with lithium perchlorate and swollen with ethylene/dimethyl carbonates to generate a structured polymer-gel electrolyte for Li-polymer battery applications. The fibrous mats were found to be composed of a nonwoven collection of ca. 1μm diameter PEO fibers with up to 85% porosity. Following UV exposure, the mats were rendered insoluble by chemical crosslinking, yielding gel fractions in excess of 80%. Upon incorporation of a liquid lithium ion electrolyte, the swollen mats were shown to maintain the fiberous framework and exhibit conductivities as high as 1.2 × 10-2 S/cm at room temperature. In contrast, a control mat of electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) containing fibers of comparable dimensions and identical electrolyte loading was found to yield a conductivity of only 5 × 10-3 S/cm.
Fabrication of Polysaccharide-Based Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery Nanocarriers
Authors: Pang Suh Cem , Chin Suk Fun , Nadirah Ain , Tay Soon Hiang , Mohd Yazid Siti Nur Akmar
Published: July 2015

Polysaccharide-based nanoparticles have been developed as drug delivery nanocarriers for encapsulating and releasing optimum doses of drug at targeted sites over a predictable period of time. We have reported herein the successful loading of curcumin onto both native starch and starch-maleate nanoparticles prepared via in-situ nanoprecipitation in aqueous medium and water-in-oil emulsion, respectively. The physico-chemical characteristics of curcumin-loaded polysaccharide-based nanoparticles such as sizes, porosity, and hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity were subsequently optimized by tailoring synthesis parameters which include solvents, surfactants, cross-linkers, and polysaccharide precursors. Under optimum conditions, native starch nanoparticles with a mean diameter of 87 nm exhibited a maximum curcumin loading efficiency of 78%. Curcumin was observed to release from native starch nanoparticles at physiological pH in sustained and predictable manners over a period of 10 days. On the other hand, the diameter of curcumin-loaded starch-maleate nanoparticles varied between 30 nm and 110 nm and a mean diameter of 50 nm. The loading of curcumin onto starch-maleate nanoparticles occurred rapidly initially but declined gradually until the curcumin loading capacity of 15 mg/g was achieved within 12 hours. Curcumin-loaded starch-maleate nanoparticles exhibited a water solubility of 6.0 x 10-2 mg/mL, which was about 300 times higher than that of free curcumin. Increased water solubility coupled with desirable loading capacity and release kinetic profile of curcumin in polysaccharide-based nanoparticles should, in turn, lead to enhanced bioavailability of curcumin. The potential utility of native starch and starch-maleate nanoparticles as cost-effective polysaccharide-based drug delivery nanocarriers is therefore envisaged.
Low Work Function LaB6 Thin Films Prepared by Nitrogen Doped LaB6 Target Sputtering
Authors: Ishii Hidekazu , Takahashi Kentaro , Goto Tetsuya , Sugawa Shigetoshi , Ohmi Tadahiro
Published: July 2015

Sputtering deposition of LaB6 thin film was developed, and work function of the sputtered LaB6 film was investigated. It was found that the work function depends greatly on the nitrogen and the oxygen concentrations in the LaB6 sputtering target. Low work function of 2.4 eV was obtained in the case of nitrogen concentration of approximately 0.4%. At the same time, the oxygen concentration must be less than 1% to obtain low work function. In this condition, the it was found from the Hall measurement results that the sputtered LaB6 film exhibited both the highest electron mobility (1.5 cm2/Vs) and the highest electron density (3.3×1022 cm-3), suggesting that orderliness between atoms was improved at this condition, resulting in the realization of low work function.
Hydrogen sulfide: a novel gaseous signaling molecule and intracellular Ca2+ regulator in rat parotid acinar cells
Authors: Moustafa Amira , Habara Yoshiaki
Published: July 2015

In addition to nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is recognized as a crucial gaseous messenger that exerts many biological actions in various tissues. An attempt was made to assess the roles and underlying mechanisms of both gases in isolated rat parotid acinar cells. Ductal cells and some acinar cells were found to express NO and H2S synthases. Cevimeline, a muscarinic receptor agonist upregulated endothelial NO synthase in parotid tissue. NO and H2S donors increased the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). This was not affected by inhibitors of phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors, but was decreased by blockers of ryanodine receptors (RyRs), soluble guanylyl cyclase, and protein kinase G. The H2S donor evoked NO production, which was decreased by blockade of NO synthases or phosphoinositide 3-kinase or by hypotaurine, an H2S scavenger. The H2S donor-induced [Ca2+]i increase was diminished by a NO scavenger or the NO synthases blocker. These results suggest that NO and H2S play important roles in regulating [Ca2+]i via soluble guanylyl cyclase-cGMP-protein kinase G-RyRs, but not via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors. The effect of H2S may be partially through NO produced via phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt-endothelial NO synthase. It was concluded that both gases regulate [Ca2+]i in a synergistic way, mainly via RyRs in rat parotid acinar cells.
The impact of statins on biological characteristics of stem cells provides a novel explanation for their pleiotropic beneficial and adverse clinical effects
Authors: Izadpanah Reza , Schächtele Deborah J. , Pfnür Andreas B. , Lin Dong , Slakey Douglas P. , Kadowitz Philip J. , Alt Eckhard U.
Published: July 2015

Statins reduce atherosclerotic events and cardiovascular mortality. Their side effects include memory loss, myopathy, cataract formation, and increased risk of diabetes. As cardiovascular mortality relates to plaque instability, which depends on the integrity of the fibrous cap, we hypothesize that the inhibition of the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into macrophages would help to explain the long known, but less understood “non-lipid-associated” or pleiotropic benefit of statins on cardiovascular mortality. In the present investigation, MSCs were treated with atorvastatin or pravastatin at clinically relevant concentrations and their proliferation, differentiation potential, and gene expression profile were assessed. Both types of statins reduced the overall growth rate of MSCs. Especially, statins reduced the potential of MSCs to differentiate into macrophages while they exhibited no direct effect on macrophage function. These findings suggest that the limited capacity of MSCs to differentiate into macrophages could possibly result in decreased macrophage density within the arterial plaque, reduced inflammation, and subsequently enhance plaque stability. This would explain the non-lipid-associated reduction in cardiovascular events. On a negative side, statins impaired the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation potential of MSCs and increased cell senescence and apoptosis, as indicated by upregulation of p16, p53 and Caspase 3, 8, and 9. Statins also impaired the expression of DNA repair genes, including XRCC4, XRCC6, and Apex1. While the effect on macrophage differentiation explains the beneficial side of statins, their impact on other biologic properties of stem cells provides a novel explanation for their adverse clinical effects.
Blocking peripheral serotonin synthesis by telotristat etiprate (LX1032/LX1606) reduces severity of both chemical- and infection-induced intestinal inflammation
Authors: Kim Janice J. , Wang Huaqing , Terc Joshua D. , Zambrowicz Brian , Yang Qi M. , Khan Waliul I.
Published: July 2015

Mucosal inflammation is accompanied by an alteration in 5-HT. Intestinal 5-HT synthesis is catalyzed by tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (Tph1) and we have shown that mice deficient in this rate-limiting enzyme have reduced severity of intestinal inflammation in models of chemical-induced experimental colitis. Here, we investigated the effect of blocking peripheral 5-HT synthesis in generation of intestinal inflammation by a using peripheral Tph inhibitor, telotristat etiprate (LX1606), in models of intestinal inflammation. LX1606 was given orally either prophylactically or therapeutically to mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis or with infection with Trichuris muris. Severity of intestinal inflammation was measured by assessment of disease activity scores, histological damage, and MPO and inflammatory cytokine levels. LX1606 significantly reduced intestinal 5-HT levels and delayed onset and severity of DSS-induced acute and chronic colitis. This was associated with decreased MPO and proinflammatory cytokine levels compared with vehicle-treated controls. In the infection-induced inflammation model, treatment with LX1606 enhanced worm expulsion as well as increased IL-10 production and goblet cell numbers. LX1606-treated mice had significantly lower MPO and IL-1β levels compared with controls postinfection. Our results demonstrate that peripheral 5-HT plays an important role in intestinal inflammation and in the generation of immune responses. Pharmacological reduction of peripheral 5-HT may serve as a potential strategy for modulating various intestinal inflammatory disorders.
Attenuated sarcomere lengthening of the aged murine left ventricle observed using two-photon fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Nance Michael E. , Whitfield Justin T. , Zhu Yi , Gibson Anne K. , Hanft Laurin M. , Campbell Kenneth S. , Meininger Gerald A. , McDonald Kerry S. , Segal Steven S. , Domeier Timothy L.
Published: July 2015

The Frank-Starling mechanism, whereby increased diastolic filling leads to increased cardiac output, depends on increasing the sarcomere length ( Ls) of cardiomyocytes. Ventricular stiffness increases with advancing age, yet it remains unclear how such changes in compliance impact sarcomere dynamics in the intact heart. We developed an isolated murine heart preparation to monitor Ls as a function of left ventricular pressure and tested the hypothesis that sarcomere lengthening in response to ventricular filling is impaired with advanced age. Mouse hearts isolated from young (3–6 mo) and aged (24–28 mo) C57BL/6 mice were perfused via the aorta under Ca2+-free conditions with the left ventricle cannulated to control filling pressure. Two-photon imaging of 4-{2-[6-(dioctylamino)-2-naphthalenyl]ethenyl}1-(3-sulfopropyl)-pyridinium fluorescence was used to monitor t-tubule striations and obtain passive Ls between pressures of 0 and 40 mmHg. Ls values (in μm, aged vs. young, respectively) were 2.02 ± 0.04 versus 2.01 ± 0.02 at 0 mmHg, 2.13 ± 0.04 versus 2.23 ± 0.02 at 5 mmHg, 2.21 ± 0.03 versus 2.27 ± 0.03 at 10 mmHg, and 2.28 ± 0.02 versus 2.36 ± 0.01 at 40 mmHg, indicative of impaired sarcomere lengthening in aged hearts. Atomic force microscopy nanoindentation revealed that intact cardiomyocytes enzymatically isolated from aged hearts had increased stiffness compared with those of young hearts (elastic modulus: aged, 41.9 ± 5.8 kPa vs. young, 18.6 ± 3.3 kPa; P = 0.006). Impaired sarcomere lengthening during left ventricular filling may contribute to cardiac dysfunction with advancing age by attenuating the Frank-Starling mechanism and reducing stroke volume.
NAD(P)H oxidase subunit p47phox is elevated, and p47phox knockout prevents diaphragm contractile dysfunction in heart failure
Authors: Ahn Bumsoo , Beharry Adam W. , Frye Gregory S. , Judge Andrew R. , Ferreira Leonardo F.
Published: July 2015

Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) have dyspnea and exercise intolerance, which are caused in part by diaphragm abnormalities. Oxidants impair diaphragm contractile function, and CHF increases diaphragm oxidants. However, the specific source of oxidants and its relevance to diaphragm abnormalities in CHF is unclear. The p47phox-dependent Nox2 isoform of NAD(P)H oxidase is a putative source of diaphragm oxidants. Thus, we conducted our study with the goal of determining the effects of CHF on the diaphragm levels of Nox2 complex subunits and test the hypothesis that p47phox knockout prevents diaphragm contractile dysfunction elicited by CHF. CHF caused a two- to sixfold increase ( P < 0.05) in diaphragm mRNA and protein levels of several Nox2 subunits, with p47phox being upregulated and hyperphosphorylated. CHF increased diaphragm extracellular oxidant emission in wild-type but not p47phox knockout mice. Diaphragm isometric force, shortening velocity, and peak power were decreased by 20–50% in CHF wild-type mice ( P < 0.05), whereas p47phox knockout mice were protected from impairments in diaphragm contractile function elicited by CHF. Our experiments show that p47phox is upregulated and involved in the increased oxidants and contractile dysfunction in CHF diaphragm. These findings suggest that a p47phox-dependent NAD(P)H oxidase mediates the increase in diaphragm oxidants and contractile dysfunction in CHF.
A novel and sensitive assay for heme oxygenase activity
Authors: Iwamori Saki , Sato Emiko , Saigusa Daisuke , Yoshinari Kouichi , Ito Sadayoshi , Sato Hiroshi , Takahashi Nobuyuki
Published: July 2015

Heme oxygenase (HO) is a renoprotective protein in the microsome that degrades heme and produces biliverdin. Biliverdin is then reduced to a potent antioxidant bilirubin by biliverdin reductase in the cytosol. Because HO activity does not necessarily correlate with HO mRNA or protein levels, a reliable assay is needed to determine HO activity. Spectrophotometric measurement is tedious and requires a relatively large amount of kidney samples. Moreover, bilirubin is unstable and spontaneously oxidized to biliverdin in vitro. We developed a novel and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to quantify biliverdin to measure HO activity in mice. Biliverdin and its internal standard, a deuterated biliverdin-d4, have MS/MS fragments with m/z transitions of 583 to 297 and 587 to 299, respectively. We prepared lysates of mouse kidneys, and added excess hemin, NADPH, and bilirubin oxidase to convert all bilirubin produced to biliverdin. After 30-min incubation at 37 or 4°C, the samples were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The difference in the amount of biliverdin between the two temperatures is HO activity. Treating mice with cobalt protoporphyrin, which induces the expression of HO, increased HO activity as determined by biliverdin production. Measuring the production of biliverdin using LC-MS/MS is a more sensitive and specific way to determine HO activity than the spectrophotometric method and allows the detection of subtle changes in renal or other HO activity.