bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The application of thermophilic DNA primase TtDnaG2 to DNA amplification
Authors: Zhao D. , Chen Xiuqiang , Li Kuan , Fu Yu V.
Published: October 2017

For DNA replication in vivo, DNA primase uses a complementary single-stranded DNA template to synthesize RNA primers ranging from 4 to 20 nucleotides in length, which are then elongated by DNA polymerase. Here, we report that, in the presence of double-stranded DNA, the thermophilic DNA primase TtDnaG2 synthesizes RNA primers of around 100 nucleotides with low initiation specificity at 70 °C. Analysing the structure of TtDnaG2, we identified that it adopts a compact conformation. The conserved sites in its zinc binding domain are sequestered away from its RNA polymerase domain, which might give rise to the low initiation specificity and synthesis of long RNA segments by TtDnaG2. Based on these unique features of TtDnaG2, a DNA amplification method has been developed. We utilized TtDnaG2 to synthesize RNA primers at 70 °C after 95 °C denaturation, followed by isothermal amplification with the DNA polymerase Bst3.0 or phi29. Using this method, we successfully amplified genomic DNA of a virus with 100% coverage and low copy number variation. Our data also demonstrate that this method can efficiently amplify circular DNA from a mixture of circular DNA and linear DNA, thus providing a tool to amplify low-copy-number circular DNA such as plasmids.
Pulsed sputtering epitaxial growth of m-plane InGaN lattice-matched to ZnO
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi , Ohta Jitsuo , Fujioka Hiroshi
Published: October 2017

m-Plane GaN and InGaN films were grown on m-plane ZnO substrates at ~350 °C by pulsed sputtering deposition. It was found that the critical thickness of the m-plane GaN films grown on ZnO lies between 25 and 62 nm, whereas 180-nm-thick m-plane In0.12Ga0.88N can be coherently grown on ZnO substrates, which is explained well by theoretical calculations based on an energy-balance model. The coherently grown m-plane InGaN on ZnO exhibited narrow X-ray rocking curves compared with the m-plane GaN grown on ZnO. These results demonstrate the benefit of lattice-matched ZnO substrates for epitaxy of high-quality nonpolar InGaN films.
Dynamic mRNA and miRNA expression analysis in response to hypoxia and reoxygenation in the blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala)
Authors: Sun Shengming , Xuan Fujun , Ge Xianping , Zhu Jian , Zhang Wuxiao
Published: October 2017

Adaptation to hypoxia is a complex process involving various pathways and regulation mechanisms. A better understanding of the genetic influence on these mechanisms could permit selection for hypoxia-sensitive fish. To aid this understanding, an integrated analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression was performed in Megalobrama amblycephala under four acute hypoxia and reoxygenation stages. A number of significantly differentially-expressed miRNAs and genes associated with oxidative stress were identified, and their functional characteristics were revealed by GO function and KEGG pathway analysis. They were found to be involved in HIF-1 pathways known to affect energy metabolism and apoptosis. MiRNA-mRNA interaction pairs were detected from comparison of expression between the four different stages. The function annotation results also showed that many miRNA-mRNA interaction pairs were likely to be involved in regulating hypoxia stress. As a unique resource for gene expression and regulation during hypoxia and reoxygenation, this study could provide a starting point for further studies to better understand the genetic background of hypoxia stress.
An exact solution for the free-vibration analysis of functionally graded carbon-nanotube-reinforced composite beams with arbitrary boundary conditions
Authors: Shi Zeyu , Yao Xiongliang , Pang Fuzhen , Wang Qingshan
Published: October 2017

We present an exact method to model the free vibration of functionally graded carbon-nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) beams with arbitrary boundary conditions based on first-order shear deformation elasticity theory. Five types of carbon nanotube (CNT) distributions are considered. The distributions are either uniform or functionally graded and are assumed to be continuous through the thickness of the beams. The displacements and rotational components of the beams are expressed as a linear combination of the standard Fourier series and several supplementary functions. The formulation is derived using the modified Fourier series and solved using the strong-form solution and the weak-form solution (i.e., the Rayleigh–Ritz method). Both solutions are applicable to various combinations of boundary constraints, including classical boundary conditions and elastic-supported boundary conditions. The accuracy, efficiency and validity of the two solutions presented are demonstrated via comparison with published results. A parametric study is conducted on the influence of several key parameters, namely, the L/h ratio, CNT volume fraction, CNT distribution, boundary spring stiffness and shear correction factor, on the free vibration of FG-CNTRC beams.
Rabies virus modifies host behaviour through a snake-toxin like region of its glycoprotein that inhibits neurotransmitter receptors in the CNS
Authors: Hueffer Karsten , Khatri Shailesh , Rideout Shane , Harris Michael B. , Papke Roger L. , Stokes Clare , Schulte Marvin K.
Published: October 2017

Rabies virus induces drastic behaviour modifications in infected hosts. The mechanisms used to achieve these changes in the host are not known. The main finding of this study is that a region in the rabies virus glycoprotein, with homologies to snake toxins, has the ability to alter behaviour in animals through inhibition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors present in the central nervous system. This finding provides a novel aspect to virus receptor interaction and host manipulation by pathogens in general. The neurotoxin-like region of the rabies virus glycoprotein inhibited acetylcholine responses of α4β2 nicotinic receptors in vitro, as did full length ectodomain of the rabies virus glycoprotein. The same peptides significantly altered a nicotinic receptor induced behaviour in C. elegans and increased locomotor activity levels when injected into the central nervous system of mice. These results provide a mechanistic explanation for the behavioural changes in hosts infected by rabies virus.
Revealing hidden complexities of genomic rearrangements generated with Cas9
Authors: Boroviak Katharina , Fu Beiyuan , Yang Fengtang , Doe Brendan , Bradley Allan
Published: October 2017

Modelling human diseases caused by large genomic rearrangements has become more accessible since the utilization of CRISPR/Cas9 in mammalian systems. In a previous study, we showed that genomic rearrangements of up to one million base pairs can be generated by direct injection of CRISPR/Cas9 reagents into mouse zygotes. Although these rearrangements are ascertained by junction PCR, we describe here a variety of unanticipated structural changes often involving reintegration of the region demarcated by the gRNAs in the vicinity of the edited locus. We illustrate here some of this diversity detected by high-resolution fibre-FISH and conclude that extensive molecular analysis is required to fully understand the structure of engineered chromosomes generated by Cas9.
Oxidized g-C3N4/polyaniline nanofiber composite for the selective removal of hexavalent chromium
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Barakat M. A. , Alseroury F. A.
Published: October 2017

Nanomaterials with selective adsorption properties are in demand for environmental applications. Herein, acid etching and oxidative decomposition of melon units of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was performed to obtain the oxidized graphitic carbon nitride (Ox-g-C3N4) nanosheets. Ox- g-C3N4 nanosheets were further decorated on the polyaniline nanofiber (Ox-g-C3N4/Pani-NF). Ox-g-C3N4/Pani-NF was well characterized and further applied for a selective removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) form aqueous solution. The zeta potential analysis indicate that the surface of Ox-g-C3N4/Pani-NF was positively charged which could be beneficial to bind anionic Cr(VI) ions electrostatically. In addition, nitrogen and oxygen containing functional groups exist on the Ox-g-C3N4/Pani-NF were mainly responsible for adsorption of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solution. Moreover, the adsorption of Cr(VI) ions was also dependent on solution pH, reaction temperature and initial concentration of Cr(VI) ions. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of Ox-g-C3N4/Pani-NF for Cr(VI), calculated from Langmuir isotherm was 178.57 mg/g at pH = 2 and 30 °C. The activation energy (Ea = −20.66 kJ/mol) and the enthalpy change (ΔH° = −22.055 kJ/mol) validate the role of physical forces in adsorption of Cr(VI). These results demonstrate that Ox-g-C3N4/Pani-NF can be used as a potential adsorbent for environmental remediation applications.
Evaluation of water quality based on a machine learning algorithm and water quality index for the Ebinur Lake Watershed, China
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Zhang Fei , Ding Jianli
Published: October 2017

The water quality index (WQI) has been used to identify threats to water quality and to support better water resource management. This study combines a machine learning algorithm, WQI, and remote sensing spectral indices (difference index, DI; ratio index, RI; and normalized difference index, NDI) through fractional derivatives methods and in turn establishes a model for estimating and assessing the WQI. The results show that the calculated WQI values range between 56.61 and 2,886.51. We also explore the relationship between reflectance data and the WQI. The number of bands with correlation coefficients passing a significance test at 0.01 first increases and then decreases with a peak appearing after 1.6 orders. WQI and DI as well as RI and NDI correlation coefficients between optimal band combinations of the peak also appear after 1.6 orders with R2 values of 0.92, 0.58 and 0.92. Finally, 22 WQI estimation models were established by POS-SVR to compare the predictive effects of these models. The models based on a spectral index of 1.6 were found to perform much better than the others, with an R2 of 0.92, an RMSE of 58.4, and an RPD of 2.81 and a slope of curve fitting of 0.97.
An eQTL variant of ZXDC is associated with IFN-γ production following Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen-specific stimulation
Authors: Jabot-Hanin Fabienne , Cobat Aurélie , Feinberg Jacqueline , Orlova Marianna , Niay Jonathan , Deswarte Caroline , Poirier Christine , Theodorou Ioannis , Bustamante Jacinta , Boisson-Dupuis Stéphanie , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Alcaïs Alexandre , Hoal Eileen G. , Delacourt Christophe , Schurr Erwin , Abel Laurent
Published: October 2017

There is a large inter-individual variability in the response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. In previous linkage analyses, we identified a major locus on chromosome region 8q controlling IFN-γ production after stimulation with live BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin), and a second locus on chromosome region 3q affecting IFN-γ production triggered by the 6-kDa early secretory antigen target (ESAT-6), taking into account the IFN-γ production induced by BCG (IFNγ-ESAT6BCG). High-density genotyping and imputation identified ~100,000 variants within each linkage region, which we tested for association with the corresponding IFN-γ phenotype in families from a tuberculosis household contact study in France. Significant associations were replicated in a South African familial sample. The most convincing association observed was that between the IFNγ-ESAT6BCG phenotype and rs9828868 on chromosome 3q (p = 9.8 × 10−6 in the French sample). This variant made a significant contribution to the linkage signal (p < 0.001), and a trend towards the same association was observed in the South African sample. This variant was reported to be an eQTL of the ZXDC gene, biologically linked to monocyte IL-12 production through CCL2/MCP1. The identification of rs9828868 as a genetic driver of IFNγ production in response to mycobacterial antigens provides new insights into human anti-tuberculosis immunity.
Molecular Tilting Alignment on Ag@C Nanocubes Monitored by Temperature-Dependent Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Wang Yinong , Sun Yinghui , Chen Di , Zhang Xiaofang , Guo Lin , Wang Rongming
Published: October 2017

Core@shell Ag@C nanocubes (NCs) with a cubic silver core (~60 nm of side length) and a coating of ultrathin amorphous carbon (~4 nm) have been synthesized on a large scale by a one-pot hydrothermal method. The carbon layer not only protects the Ag@C nanocubes from oxidation under hydrothermal condition, but also stabilizes the structure of Ag cores. Considering that optical properties of nanostructured metals strongly depend on the temperature for SERS measurement, in this work we systemically investigate the relationship between the orientation of molecules adsorbed on Ag@C NCs and temperature by SERS spectra. Results suggest that the adsorbed 4-MBA molecules prefer a flat orientation on the NC surface with temperature decreasing. In addition, Ag@C NCs after one-year storage in water still maintain high SERS-active capability. Our synthesized Ag@C NCs with excellent and stable optical properties can be potentially applied in the field of sensor and ultrasensitive spectral analysis.
Renal iron accumulation occurs in lupus nephritis and iron chelation delays the onset of albuminuria
Authors: Marks Eileen S. , Bonnemaison Mathilde L. , Brusnahan Susan K. , Zhang Wenting , Fan Wei , Garrison Jered C. , Boesen Erika I.
Published: October 2017

Proteins involved in iron homeostasis have been identified as biomarkers for lupus nephritis, a serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We tested the hypothesis that renal iron accumulation occurs and contributes to renal injury in SLE. Renal non-heme iron levels were increased in the (New Zealand Black x New Zealand White) F1 (NZB/W) mouse model of lupus nephritis compared with healthy New Zealand White (NZW) mice in an age- and strain-dependent manner. Biodistribution studies revealed increased transferrin-bound iron accumulation in the kidneys of albuminuric NZB/W mice, but no difference in the accumulation of non-transferrin bound iron or ferritin. Transferrin excretion was significantly increased in albuminuric NZB/W mice, indicating enhanced tubular exposure and potential for enhanced tubular uptake following filtration. Expression of transferrin receptor and 24p3R were reduced in tubules from NZB/W compared to NZW mice, while ferroportin expression was unchanged and ferritin expression increased, consistent with increased iron accumulation and compensatory downregulation of uptake pathways. Treatment of NZB/W mice with the iron chelator deferiprone significantly delayed the onset of albuminuria and reduced blood urea nitrogen concentrations. Together, these findings suggest that pathological changes in renal iron homeostasis occurs in lupus nephritis, contributing to the development of kidney injury.
Fragmentation transitions in a coevolving nonlinear voter model
Authors: Min Byungjoon , Miguel Maxi San
Published: October 2017

We study a coevolving nonlinear voter model describing the coupled evolution of the states of the nodes and the network topology. Nonlinearity of the interaction is measured by a parameter q. The network topology changes by rewiring links at a rate p. By analytical and numerical analysis we obtain a phase diagram in p,q parameter space with three different phases: Dynamically active coexistence phase in a single component network, absorbing consensus phase in a single component network, and absorbing phase in a fragmented network. For finite systems the active phase has a lifetime that grows exponentially with system size, at variance with the similar phase for the linear voter model that has a lifetime proportional to system size. We find three transition lines that meet at the point of the fragmentation transition of the linear voter model. A first transition line corresponds to a continuous absorbing transition between the active and fragmented phases. The other two transition lines are discontinuous transitions fundamentally different from the transition of the linear voter model. One is a fragmentation transition between the consensus and fragmented phases, and the other is an absorbing transition in a single component network between the active and consensus phases.
Uroplakin traffic through the Golgi apparatus induces its fragmentation: new insights from novel in vitro models
Authors: Višnjar Tanja , Chesi Giancarlo , Iacobacci Simona , Polishchuk Elena , Resnik Nataša , Robenek Horst , Kreft Marko , Romih Rok , Polishchuk Roman , Kreft Mateja Erdani
Published: October 2017

Uroplakins (UPs) play an essential role in maintaining an effective urothelial permeability barrier at the level of superficial urothelial cell (UC) layer. Although the organization of UPs in the apical plasma membrane (PM) of UCs is well known, their transport in UCs is only partially understood. Here, we dissected trafficking of UPs and its differentiation-dependent impact on Golgi apparatus (GA) architecture. We demonstrated that individual subunits UPIb and UPIIIa are capable of trafficking from the endoplasmic reticulum to the GA in UCs. Moreover, UPIb, UPIIIa or UPIb/UPIIIa expressing UCs revealed fragmentation and peripheral redistribution of Golgi-units. Notably, expression of UPIb or UPIb/UPIIIa triggered similar GA fragmentation in MDCK and HeLa cells that do not express UPs endogenously. The colocalization analysis of UPIb/UPIIIa-EGFP and COPI, COPII or clathrin suggested that UPs follow constitutively the post-Golgi route to the apical PM. Depolymerisation of microtubules leads to complete blockade of the UPIb/UPIIIa-EGFP post-Golgi transport, while disassembly of actin filaments shows significantly reduced delivery of UPIb/UPIIIa-EGFP to the PM. Our findings show the significant effect of the UPs expression on the GA fragmentation, which enables secretory Golgi-outpost to be distributed as close as possible to the sites of cargo delivery at the PM.
Denervation-related alterations and biological activity of miRNAs contained in exosomes released by skeletal muscle fibers
Authors: De Gasperi Rita , Hamidi Sayyed , Harlow Lauren M. , Ksiezak-Reding Hanna , Bauman William A. , Cardozo Christopher P.
Published: October 2017

Exosomes are vesicles released by many eukaryotic cells; their cargo includes proteins, mRNA and microRNA (miR) that can be transferred to recipient cells and regulate cellular processes in an autocrine or paracrine manner. While cells of the myoblast lineage secrete exosomes, it is not known whether skeletal muscle fibers (myofibers) release exosomes. In this study, we found that cultured myofibers release nanovesicles that have bilamellar membranes and an average size of 60–130 nm, contain typical exosomal proteins and miRNAs and are taken up by C2C12 cells. miR-133a was found to be the most abundant myomiR in these vesicles while miR-720 was most enriched in exosomes compared to parent myofibers. Treatment of NIH 3T3 cells with myofiber-derived exosomes downregulated the miR-133a targets proteins Smarcd1 and Runx2, confirming that these exosomes have biologically relevant effects on recipient cells. Denervation resulted in a marked increase in miR-206 and reduced expression of miRs 1, 133a, and 133b in myofiber-derived exosomes. These findings demonstrate that skeletal muscle fibers release exosomes which can exert biologically significant effects on recipient cells, and that pathological muscle conditions such as denervation induce alterations in exosomal miR profile which could influence responses to disease states through autocrine or paracrine mechanisms.
Structural decomposition of decadal climate prediction errors: A Bayesian approach
Authors: Zanchettin Davide , Gaetan Carlo , Arisido Maeregu Woldeyes , Modali Kameswarrao , Toniazzo Thomas , Keenlyside Noel , Rubino Angelo
Published: October 2017

Decadal climate predictions use initialized coupled model simulations that are typically affected by a drift toward a biased climatology determined by systematic model errors. Model drifts thus reflect a fundamental source of uncertainty in decadal climate predictions. However, their analysis has so far relied on ad-hoc assessments of empirical and subjective character. Here, we define the climate model drift as a dynamical process rather than a descriptive diagnostic. A unified statistical Bayesian framework is proposed where a state-space model is used to decompose systematic decadal climate prediction errors into an initial drift, seasonally varying climatological biases and additional effects of co-varying climate processes. An application to tropical and south Atlantic sea-surface temperatures illustrates how the method allows to evaluate and elucidate dynamic interdependencies between drift, biases, hindcast residuals and background climate. Our approach thus offers a methodology for objective, quantitative and explanatory error estimation in climate predictions.
Metabolic Signatures in Response to Abscisic Acid (ABA) Treatment in Brassica napus Guard Cells Revealed by Metabolomics
Authors: Zhu Mengmeng , Assmann Sarah M.
Published: October 2017

Drought can severely damage crops, resulting in major yield losses. During drought, vascular land plants conserve water via stomatal closure. Each stomate is bordered by a pair of guard cells that shrink in response to drought and the associated hormone abscisic acid (ABA). The activation of complex intracellular signaling networks underlies these responses. Therefore, analysis of guard cell metabolites is fundamental for elucidation of guard cell signaling pathways. Brassica napus is an important oilseed crop for human consumption and biodiesel production. Here, non-targeted metabolomics utilizing gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) were employed for the first time to identify metabolic signatures in response to ABA in B. napus guard cell protoplasts. Metabolome profiling identified 390 distinct metabolites in B. napus guard cells, falling into diverse classes. Of these, 77 metabolites, comprising both primary and secondary metabolites were found to be significantly ABA responsive, including carbohydrates, fatty acids, glucosinolates, and flavonoids. Selected secondary metabolites, sinigrin, quercetin, campesterol, and sitosterol, were confirmed to regulate stomatal closure in Arabidopsis thaliana, B. napus or both species. Information derived from metabolite datasets can provide a blueprint for improvement of water use efficiency and drought tolerance in crops.
Rheumatoid arthritis and risk for Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis and a Mendelian Randomization study
Authors: Policicchio Stefania , Ahmad Aminah Noor , Powell John Francis , Proitsi Petroula
Published: October 2017

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have been observed to be at a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Clinical trials have showed no relationship between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use and AD. The aim of this study was to establish if there is a causal link between RA and AD. A systematic literature review on RA incidence and its link to AD was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines. Eight case-control and two population-based studies were included in a random effects meta-analysis. The causal relationship between RA and AD was assessed using Mendelian Randomization (MR), using summary data from the largest RA and AD Genome Wide Association (GWA) and meta-analysis studies to date using a score of 62 RA risk SNPs (p < 5 * 10−8) as instrumental variable (IV). Meta-analysis of the literature showed that RA was associated with lower AD incidence (OR = 0.600, 95% CI 0.46–0.77, p = 1.03 * 10−4). On the contrary, MR analysis did not show any evidence of a causal association between RA and AD (OR = 1.012, 95% CI 0.98–1.04). Although there is epidemiological evidence for an association of RA with lower AD incidence, this association does not appear to be causal. Possible explanations for this discrepancy could include influence from confounding factors such as use of RA medication, selection bias and differential RA diagnosis.
Modulation of electronic transport properties in armchair phosphorene nanoribbons by doping and edge passivation
Authors: Guo Caixia , Wang Tianxing , Xia Congxin , Liu Yufang
Published: October 2017

The electronic structures and transport properties of group IV atoms (C, Si, Ge)-doped armchair phosphorene nanoribbons (APNRs) are investigated using first-principles calculations, considering different edge passivation. The results show that the C, Si, Ge dopants can induce the transition occur from semiconductor to metal in the APNRs. The negative differential resistance (NDR) behavior in the doped APNR system is robust with respect to the doping concentration and edge passivation type. However, their current peak positions and peak-to-valley ratio (PVR) values are correlated with doping concentration and edge passivation type. In particular, for the C, Si-doped APNRs, the low bias NDR behavior with the PVR (105–108) can be observed when doping concentration is low in the APNRs with the F and H edge passivation. These results may play an important role for the fabrication of future low power consumption nano-electronic devices.
Overall water splitting by photoelectrochemical cells consisting of (ZnSe)0.85(CuIn0.7Ga0.3Se2)0.15photocathodes and BiVO4photoanodes
Authors: Higashi Tomohiro , Kaneko Hiroyuki , Minegishi Tsutomu , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Zhong Miao , Kuang Yongbo , Hisatomi Takashi , Katayama Masao , Takata Tsuyoshi , Nishiyama Hiroshi , Yamada Taro , Domen Kazunari
Published: October 2017

Integrated photoelectrodes with striped structure facilitated the in-plane diffusion of reactants and achieved the water splitting efficiency of 1.0% without stirring of electrolyte.
Neutron diffraction and gravimetric study of the iron nitriding reaction under ammonia decomposition conditions
Authors: Wood Thomas J. , Makepeace Joshua W. , David William I. F.
Published: October 2017

In situ neutron diffraction of the ammonia decomposition reaction over iron shows the catalyst to be Fe or Fe4N depending on the conditions.
Comparative density functional theory–density functional tight binding study of fullerene derivatives: effects due to fullerene size, addends, and crystallinity on band structure, charge transport and optical properties
Authors: Pal Amrita , Wen Lai Kai , Jun Chia Yao , Jeon Il , Matsuo Yutaka , Manzhos Sergei
Published: October 2017

Comparative DFT–DFTB study of multiple derivatives of C60 and C70 with different addends, in molecular and solid state.
Carbon-sulphur cross coupling reactions catalyzed by nickel-based coordination polymers based on metalloligands
Authors: Kumar Gulshan , Hussain Firasat , Gupta Rajeev
Published: October 2017

This work illustrates two Ni2+based coordination polymers and their utilization as reusable and heterogeneous catalysts for the C–S cross coupling reactions between assorted aromatic halides with thiophenol, cyclohexanethiol and ethanethiol.
Frontiers in spectroscopic techniques in inorganic chemistry
Authors: Dey Abhishek
Published: October 2017

Welcome to this issue of Dalton Transactions featuring the themed issue “Frontiers in spectroscopic techniques in inorganic chemistry”.
Divalent metal ions control activity and inhibition of protein kinases
Authors: Knape Matthias J. , Ballez Mike , Burghardt Nicole C. , Zimmermann Bastian , Bertinetti Daniela , Kornev Alexandr P. , Herberg Friedrich W.
Published: October 2017

Metals like Zn2+and Mn2+can assist in the catalytic cycle of a protein kinase by facilitating substrate binding and phosphotransfer, however, in contrast to Mg2+they also hamper product release.
Determining molecular orientationviasingle molecule SERS in a plasmonic nano-gap
Authors: Marshall Addison R. L. , Stokes Jamie , Viscomi Francesco N. , Proctor John E. , Gierschner Johannes , Bouillard Jean-Sebastien G. , Adawi Ali M.
Published: October 2017

Through combining single molecule SERS measurements, DFT and FDTD calculations, the molecular orientation within the plasmonic nano-gap is recovered.
Dipole-induced exchange bias
Authors: Torres Felipe , Morales Rafael , Schuller Ivan K. , Kiwi Miguel
Published: October 2017

The discovery of dipole-induced exchange bias (EB), switching from negative to positive sign, is reported in systems where the antiferromagnet and the ferromagnet are separated by a paramagnetic spacer (AFM–PM–FM).
Carbon dots: promising biomaterials for bone-specific imaging and drug delivery
Authors: Peng Zhili , Miyanji Esmail H. , Zhou Yiqun , Pardo Joel , Hettiarachchi Sajini D. , Li Shanghao , Blackwelder Patricia L. , Skromne Isaac , Leblanc Roger M.
Published: October 2017

Bone-related diseases and dysfunctions are heavy burdens on our increasingly aged society. In this study, carbon dots have been introduced as highly promising biomaterials for bone-related bioimaging and drug delivery due to their high affinity and specificity bone-binding properties.
Enzymatic monoesterification of symmetric diols: restriction of molecular conformations influences selectivity
Authors: Tomer Sanjiv O. , Soni Hemant P.
Published: October 2017

High percentage yield with selectivity for a monoester over a diester, easier product isolation and environmental sustainability are the key features of this protocol.
Synthesis, characterization, and thermal and surface properties of co- and terpolymers based on fluorinated α-methylstyrenes and styrene
Authors: Walkowiak-Kulikowska Justyna , Szwajca Anna , Gouverneur Véronique , Ameduri Bruno
Published: October 2017

Conventional bulk radical co- and terpolymerizations of α-fluoromethylstyrene (FMST) or/and α-trifluoromethylstyrene (TFMST) with styrene (ST) initiated by α,α′-azobis(isobutyronitrile) (AIBN) are presented.
A programmable soft chemo-mechanical actuator exploiting a catalyzed photochemical water-oxidation reaction
Authors: Yuan P. , McCracken J. M. , Gross D. E. , Braun P. V. , Moore J. S. , Nuzzo R. G.
Published: October 2017

A mechanistic investigation is described for an actuatable bilayer polymeric device in which a covalently-linked photo-active catalyst drives systemic pH gradients, effecting reversible and cyclic mechanical transformation across the interfacial boundary.
Generalization of Perceptual Learning of Degraded Speech Across Talkers
Authors: Huyck Julia Jones , Smith Rachel H. , Hawkins Sarah , Johnsrude Ingrid S.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

We investigated whether perceptual learning of noise-vocoded (NV) speech is specific to a particular talker or accent.

Method

Four groups of listeners (
n
= 18 per group) were first trained by listening to 20 NV sentences that had been recorded by a talker with either the same native accent as the listeners or a different regional accent. They then heard 20 novel NV sentences from either the native- or nonnative-accented talker (test), in a 2 × 2 (Training Talker per Accent × Test Talker per Accent) design.

Results

Word-report scores at test for participants trained and tested with the same (native- or nonnative-accented) talker did not differ from those for participants trained with 1 talker per accent and tested on another.

Conclusions

Learning of NV speech generalized completely between talkers. Two additional experiments confirmed this result. Thus, when listeners are trained to understand NV speech, they are not learning talker- or accent-specific features but instead are learning how to use the information available in the degraded signal. The results suggest that people with cochlear implants, who experience spectrally degraded speech, may not be too disadvantaged if they learn to understand speech through their implant by listening primarily to just 1 other talker, such as a spouse.
Simultaneously generating multiple chirped microwave waveforms using an arrayed waveguide Sagnac interferometer
Authors: Moslemi P. , Chen L.R. , Rochette M.
Published: October 2017

Simultaneously generating two independently tunable chirped microwave waveforms based on optical spectral shaping and wavelength‐to‐time mapping with an arrayed waveguide Sagnac interferometer that incorporates linearly chirped fibre Bragg gratings are demonstrated.
Prediction‐based approach to output consensus of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems with delays
Authors: Tan Chong , Yin Xiao , Liu Guo‐Ping , Huang Jinjie , Zhao Yun‐Bo
Published: October 2017

The output consensus of multi‐agent systems is investigated, where constant communication delay is present and the dynamics of the agents are heterogeneous. Based on the networked predictive control scheme, the distributed consensus protocol with dynamic output feedback controller is designed, and the sufficient conditions of the output consensus are obtained. Numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Interactive teaching–learning optimiser for parameter tuning of VSC‐HVDC systems with offshore wind farm integration
Authors: Yang Bo , Yu Tao , Zhang Xiaoshun , Huang Linni , Shu Hongchun , Jiang Lin
Published: October 2017

This study proposes a novel interactive teaching–learning optimiser (ITLO) for voltage source converter based high voltage direct current (VSC‐HVDC) systems with offshore wind farm integration. Conventional vector control strategy is adopted, in which the parameters of eight proportional–integral loops are optimally tuned to achieve a reliable and satisfactory control performance under various operation conditions. Multiple classes are employed to realise a wider exploration compared with that of original teaching–learning based optimisation. Moreover, a small world network is incorporated for an interactive learning among the teachers or students from different classes, such that a deeper exploitation can be resulted in. Hence, ITLO can effectively avoid a local optimum due to the appropriate trade‐off between explorations and exploitations. Three case studies are carried out, such as active and reactive power tracking, short‐circuit fault at power grid, and offshore wind farm connection. Simulation results verify the effectiveness and advantages of ITLO over that of existing meta‐heuristic optimisation algorithms.
Multiscale adaptive regularisation Savitzky–Golay method for speckle noise reduction in ultrasound images
Authors: Sa‐ing Vera , Vorasayan Pongpat , Suwanwela Nijasri C. , Auethavekiat Supatana , Chinrungrueng Chedsada
Published: October 2017

Speckle noise is one of the major artefacts in ultrasound images. The denoising faces the trade‐off between noise suppression and structural preservation. In this study, multiscale adaptive regularisation Savitzky–Golay (MARSG) method, the new filter for removing speckle noise, is proposed. The proposed method combines the benefit of the multiscale analysis and the outstanding noise removing capability of Savitzky–Golay (SG) filter. The Laplacian pyramid is employed to separate an image into the noise, texture and object layers. Adaptive regularisation Savitzky–Golay (ARSG) filter is developed as the denoising filter in the noise and the texture layers. The denoising of the ARSG filter is adaptively adjusted in order to preserve the edges of objects in the image. The experiments on the synthetic and ultrasound images demonstrated that MARSG method offered better balance between noise removal and structural preservation than non‐linear multiscale wavelet diffusion, feature‐enhanced speckle reduction and regularised SG filter.
Improved colour‐to‐grey method using image segmentation and colour difference model for colour vision deficiency
Authors: Zhang Liang , Xu Qing , Zhu Guangming , Song Juan , Zhang Xiangdong , Shen Peiyi , Wei Wei , Shah Syed Afaq Ali , Bennamoun Mohammed
Published: October 2017

Colour vision deficiency (CVD) is a genetic condition that has troubled people for a long time. This study proposes an improved colour‐to‐grey method for CVD using image segmentation and a colour difference model. In this method, the colour image is first segmented using a region growing method so that each region corresponds to one colour. Next, the colour difference is computed between arbitrary segmented region pairs. Finally, the greyscale image is obtained by minimising a target function. Experimental results show that compared with state‐of‐the‐art colour‐to‐grey methods, the proposed algorithm can improve the E‐score by about 10.99%.
Optimisation design of medium frequency transformer for the offshore dc grid based on multi‐objective genetic algorithm
Authors: Zhang Liang , Zhang Dan , Shui Henghua , Yuan Yubo , Pei Qian , Zhu Jihong
Published: October 2017

A DC/DC converter is a vital component for offshore DC grids, in which a medium frequency transformer (MFT) is the main element. Therefore, it is necessary to optimise the core material and the design method so that the loss of the MFT would be reduced. In this study, the multi‐objective genetic algorithm is proposed, by which two MFTs with different core materials are both optimised. The magnetic flux density of the transformer core and the current density of the windings are introduced as the optimised variables. Also, the key equations for transformer design are put forward as the objective functions. Moreover, with constant iteration of the process of segmentation, parallel selection, mergence, recombination and variation, the Pareto optimal solution is determined. Furthermore, to verify the optimisation results, the temperature field and electric strength of the amorphous alloy MFT are calculated and simulated by finite‐element analysis. Finally, a MFT prototype with an amorphous alloy core is built, and the experiment is carried out.
Power electronic interface with de‐coupled control for wind‐driven PMSG feeding utility grid and DC load
Authors: Jenisha Charles Maria , Ammasaigounden Nanjappagounder , Kumaresan Natarajan , BhagyaSri Kadi
Published: October 2017

A wind energy conversion system employing dq control has been proposed for extracting maximum power from a wind‐driven permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) and feeding it to a three‐phase utility grid. The controller consists of a diode bridge rectifier, a dc–dc boost converter and a voltage source inverter (VSI). The grid synchronisation is achieved by controlling the VSI at the grid side. Besides supplying power to the ac grid, the proposed scheme also feeds a local dc load, as the dc link voltage is maintained constant. To evaluate the performance of proposed scheme, MATLAB/Simulink based model is tested under varying wind speeds. A proportional–integral controller is used for varying the duty ratio of the dc–dc converter to maintain the output dc voltage constant. The decoupled control algorithm for independent control of real and reactive power fed to the grid is implemented using dSPACE DS1103 controller. A steady‐state analysis has been developed for predicting the value of duty cycle as well as the reference current for maximum power point tracking at a given wind velocity or rotor speed of PMSG. Experiments have been carried out on a 48 V, 750 W, 500 rpm PMSG and the test results are furnished to validate the developed scheme.
Signal demodulation research of a frequency output resonant gyroscope based on instantaneous frequency analysis
Authors: Zhao Chen , Fan Shangchun , Sun Jinhao , Cao Le
Published: October 2017

Signal demodulation method of a frequency output resonant gyroscope is studied in this study. It has been a major problem of frequency micro gyroscopes. The detection elements of frequency gyroscopes are two double‐ended tuning forks (DETF). The vibratory response of DETF is a periodic signal modulated by both amplitude and frequency. According to the characteristic that the amplitude and frequency of the gyro signal vary continuously with time, the signal demodulation algorithm is designed based on instantaneous frequency analysis. Hilbert transform is used to solve the instantaneous frequency. The algorithm is programmed in digital signal processor (DSP) and a test circuit board is made. Experimental test demonstrates that the demodulation circuit has a high precision and linearity, and the correlation coefficient between input signals and demodulation results achieves as much as 0.99999998. The demodulation method is proved to be feasible. This study provides a new train of thought for the study of the signal demodulation method of frequency micro gyroscopes and brings a new direction for the signal analysis of resonant sensors.
Robust Gaussian particle filter based on modified likelihood function
Authors: Li Kailong , Chang Lubin
Published: October 2017

This study develops a robust Gaussian particle filter (RGPF) based on modifying the likelihood function by Huber's M‐estimation theory. In the developed RGPF, the innovations are reweighted based on the Huber's cost function, resulting in a modified likelihood function which is then used to update the weights of the involved particles. In the normal case, the developed RGPF has a comparable performance in terms of accuracy with the original GPF and better filtering consistency. When there are outliers and contaminated distributions in the measurements, the RGPF can outperform the GPF in terms of both accuracy and consistency. The validity of the developed algorithm is demonstrated through numerical simulation studies.
Endovascular Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm with Complete Iliac Occlusion: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Ibrahim M. , Tanga Christopher , Epstein David , Franz Randall
Published: October 2017

In patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and complete iliac occlusion, endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) using a bifurcated stent graft has clear advantages over aortouniiliac stent grafts. Bifurcated stent grafts had improved hemodynamic flow and increased primary and secondary patency rates compared with aortouniiliac stent grafts. The use of aortouniiliac stent grafts with femorofemoral crossover bypass is associated with complications including infection of the prosthesis, steal phenomenon, and the associated difficulties for further endovascular access at the site of the femoral anastomosis. Recanalization of occluded iliac arteries at the time of EVAR avoids the complications mentioned above. We report three cases of patients with AAA and iliac occlusion who were successfully treated with iliac recanalization at the time of EVAR.
Meningioma with Intra- and Peritumoral Abscess
Authors: Sannareddy Rajesh , Lath Rahul , Padua Michelle de , Ranjan Alok
Published: October 2017

The association of meningioma with intra- and peritumoral brain abscess is rare. All cases reported in literature had some focus of infection in the body. We report a 56-year-old man with well-controlled diabetes mellitus found to have a space-occupying lesion upon evaluation for headache, vomiting, and clumsiness of right upper limb. Perioperatively, pus was found intra- and perilesionally around a thick, capsulated, dural-based, vascular lesion. Histopathology was suggestive of meningioma, and Escherichia coli was isolated upon culture.
European Reference Networks: Share, Care, and Cure—Future or Dream?
Authors: Anzelewicz Stefan , Petersen Claus , Czauderna Piotr , Wijnen Rene
Published: October 2017

European Reference Networks (ERNs) are virtual networks that involve healthcare providers across Europe. The aim of ERNs is to tackle complex or rare diseases and conditions that necessitate highly specialized treatment, knowledge and resources.

This article summarizes the concept of European Reference Networks in the European Union, legislation and policy behind ERNs from the standpoint of pediatric surgical specialty. There are seven ERNs in which pediatric surgeons are involved, four of which are being discussed, namely ERN PaedCan, eUROGEN ERN, ERN RARE-LIVER and ERNICA. ERNs program is a step towards improving health care quality, reducing access inequalities, and increasing overall medical experience and knowledge but its final impact is yet to be determined.
Interdisziplinäre Therapie der Lungentuberkulose
Authors: Pfannschmidt Joachim , Schönfeld Nicolas
Published: October 2017

Die chirurgische Therapie der Lungentuberkulose war seit der breiten Verfügbarkeit effektiver Antibiotika nur noch in seltenen Fällen indiziert. Die zunehmende Problematik multiresistenter Tuberkulosestämme in den letzten 2 Jahrzehnten hat die Bedeutung chirurgischer Therapieverfahren jedoch erneut in den Fokus gerückt. Ziel dieser Arbeit ist die Darstellung der wesentlichen Indikationskriterien zur chirurgischen Behandlung im interdisziplinären Konzept mit den heutigen Möglichkeiten der tuberkulostatischen Therapie.
Vitamin B3 in der kosmetischen Dermatologie
Authors: Bayerl C.
Published: October 2017

Niacinamid ist der neue Trend bei den zellprotektiven Substanzen. Oral wird die Einnahme von 2 × 500 mg täglich empfohlen. Topisch wird die Substanz in 2 %-iger oder 5 %-iger Konzentration eingesetzt. Es blockiert die Hemmwirkung der UV-Strahlung auf die ATP-Produktion, fördert die DNA-Reparatur, reduziert aktinische Keratosen und Hyperpigmentierungen und minimiert auch topisch die UV-bedingte Immunsuppression.
Photodynamische Therapie – neue Wege, kritische Abwägung
Authors: Kurzen H.
Published: October 2017

In den letzten Jahren gewinnt die photodynamische Therapie (PDT) an Bedeutung in der Behandlung des chronischen Lichtschadens. Im Vordergrund steht die Behandlung der Feldkanzerisierung und damit von bösartigen, oberflächlichen epidermalen Karzinomen (aktinische Keratosen). Als Nebeneffekt wurde immer wieder ein positiver Effekt auf das Gesamterscheinungsbild und damit ein kosmetischer Effekt beschrieben. Untermauert wird dies durch Untersuchungen zur epidermalen Dicke und aktinischen Elastose nach PDT. In Kombination mit fraktionierten ablativen Lasern oder dem Mikroneedling kann eine synergistische Wirkungsverstärkung erzielt werden. Komplexe Behandlungsschemata, die PDT mit IPL, Farbstoff-Laser sowie Mikroneedling oder Mikrodermabrasion kombinieren, werden sowohl in der eigentlichen Verjüngungsbehandlung, jedoch auch zur Therapie der Akne oder auch infektiöser Hauterkrankungen eingesetzt. Die alleinige kosmetische Anwendung der PDT auf nicht sonnengeschädigter Haut steht auch aufgrund der hohen Kosten und besserer Konkurrenzmethoden nicht im Vordergrund.
Ästhetische Behandlungen mit Fillern und das Management von Nebenwirkungen
Authors: Barsch M. , Buhren B. , Gerber P.
Published: October 2017

Medizinisch-ästhetische Behandlungen sind für die tägliche dermatologische Praxis von zunehmender Bedeutung. Als zentraler Bestandteil eines multimodalen Therapiekonzeptes sind dermale und Volumenfiller aus der modernen ästhetischen Therapie nicht mehr wegzudenken. Wegweisende Erkenntnisse zum Alterungsprozess des Gesichtes und zur Sicherheit und Spezifika der verschiedenen Typen von Füllstoffen der vergangenen Jahre bieten heute differenzierte Anwendungsmöglichkeiten von Volumenaugmentation bis hin zu Hydratation oder Kollageninduktion. Gleichsam sind aber auch der Markt an verfügbaren Injektionsprodukten und die verschiedenen Indikationen und Injektionstechniken nahezu unüberschaubar. Schließlich werden wir in der Praxis immer wieder mit Komplikationen nach unsachgemäßer Anwendung oder den Langzeitkomplikationen von in Deutschland längst nicht mehr verfügbaren Füllstoffen konfrontiert und auch bei regelhafter Injektion sind Nebenwirkungen nicht ausgeschlossen. Die vorliegende Arbeit soll einen Überblick über die am Markt verfügbaren aber auch relevanten historischen bzw. obsoleten Filler und ferner über mögliche Komplikationen und deren Management geben. Ferner finden sich persönliche Bewertungen zu besonderen Indikationen bzw. Injektionstechniken.
Aus der Rücken- in die Seitenlage
Authors: Muesse André , Vehma Stefanie , Brutscher Petra , Eppler Sonja
Published: October 2017

Transfers erleichtern In diesem Beitrag der Reihe Kinästhetik geht es um
die verfeinerte Durchführung alltäglicher Transfers mit besonderer pflegerischer
Relevanz. Am Beispiel des Transfers aus der Rücken- in die Seitenlage soll
gezeigt werden, wie grundlegendes Bewegungsverständnis im Sinne von Kinästhetik
im pflegerischen Alltag leicht umgesetzt werden kann, um Bewegung zu fördern und
körperliche Belastungen zu reduzieren. So erfolgt Entwicklungsförderung im
Handling von Anfang an.