bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alix is required during development for normal growth of the mouse brain
Authors: Laporte Marine H. , Chatellard Christine , Vauchez Victoria , Hemming Fiona J. , Deloulme Jean-Christophe , Vossier Frédérique , Blot Béatrice , Fraboulet Sandrine , Sadoul Rémy
Published: March 2017

Alix (ALG-2 interacting protein X) drives deformation and fission of endosomal and cell surface membranes and thereby intervenes in diverse biological processes including cell proliferation and apoptosis. Using embryonic fibroblasts of Alix knock-out mice, we recently demonstrated that Alix is required for clathrin-independent endocytosis. Here we show that mice lacking Alix suffer from severe reduction in the volume of the brain which affects equally all regions examined. The cerebral cortex of adult animals shows normal layering but is reduced in both medio-lateral length and thickness. Alix controls brain size by regulating its expansion during two distinct developmental stages. Indeed, embryonic surface expansion of the Alix ko cortex is reduced because of the loss of neural progenitors during a transient phase of apoptosis occurring between E11.5 and E12.5. Subsequent development of the Alix ko cortex occurs normally until birth, when Alix is again required for the post-natal radial expansion of the cortex through its capacity to allow proper neurite outgrowth. The need of Alix for both survival of neural progenitor cells and neurite outgrowth is correlated with its role in clathrin-independent endocytosis in neural progenitors and at growth cones. Thus Alix-dependent, clathrin independent endocytosis is essential for controlling brain size.
The protective effects of shikonin on hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury are mediated by the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Liu Tong , Zhang QingHui , Mo Wenhui , Yu Qiang , Xu Shizan , Li Jingjing , Li Sainan , Feng Jiao , Wu Liwei , Lu Xiya , Zhang Rong , Li Linqiang , Cheng Keran , Zhou Yuqing , Zhou Shunfeng , Kong Rui , Wang Fan , Dai Weiqi , Chen Kan , Xia Yujing , Lu Jie , Zhou Yingqun , Zhao Yan , Guo Chuanyong
Published: March 2017

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, which can result in severe liver injury and dysfunction, occurs in a variety of conditions such as liver transplantation, shock, and trauma. Cell death in hepatic I/R injury has been linked to apoptosis and autophagy. Shikonin plays a significant protective role in ischemia/reperfusion injury. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of shikonin on hepatic I/R injury and explore the underlying mechanism. Mice were subjected to segmental (70%) hepatic warm ischemia to induce hepatic I/R injury. Two doses of shikonin (7.5 and 12.5 mg/kg) were administered 2 h before surgery. Balb/c mice were randomly divided into four groups: normal control, I/R, and shikonin preconditioning at two doses (7.5 and 12.5 mg/kg). The serum and liver tissues were collected at three time points (3, 6, and 24 h). Shikonin significantly reduced serum AST and ALT levels and improved pathological features. Shikonin affected the expression of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase 3, caspase 9, Beclin-1, and LC3, and upregulated PI3K and p-Akt compared with the levels in the I/R group. Shikonin attenuated hepatic I/R injury by inhibiting apoptosis and autophagy through a mechanism involving the activation of PI3K/Akt signaling.
H2S regulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein stability by promoting microRNA-455-3p expression
Authors: Li Xing-Hui , Xue Wen-Long , Wang Ming-Jie , Zhou Yu , Zhang Cai-Cai , Sun Chen , Zhu Lei , Liang Kun , Chen Ying , Tao Bei-Bei , Tan Bo , Yu Bo , Zhu Yi-Chun
Published: March 2017

The aims of the present study are to determine whether hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is involved in the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) production, and to identify the role of microRNA-455-3p (miR-455-3p) during those processes. In cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), the expression of miR-455-3p, eNOS protein and the NO production was detected after administration with 50 μM NaHS. The results indicated that H2S could augment the expression of miR-455-3p and eNOS protein, leading to the increase of NO level. We also found that overexpression of miR-455-3p in HUVECs increased the protein levels of eNOS whereas inhibition of miR-455-3p decreased it. Moreover, H2S and miR-455-3p could no longer increase the protein level of eNOS in the presence of proteasome inhibitor, MG-132. In vivo, miR-455-3p and eNOS expression were considerably increased in C57BL/6 mouse aorta, muscle and heart after administration with 50 μmol/kg/day NaHS for 7 days. We also identified that H2S levels and miR-455-3p expression increased in human atherosclerosis plaque while H2S levels decreased in plasma of atherosclerosis patients. Our data suggest that the stability of eNOS protein and the NO production could be regulated by H2S through miR-455-3p.
Stk38 Modulates Rbm24 Protein Stability to Regulate Sarcomere Assembly in Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Liu Jing , Kong Xu , Lee Yew Mun , Zhang Meng Kai , Guo Li Yan , Lin Yu , Lim Teck Kwang , Lin Qingsong , Xu Xiu Qin
Published: March 2017

RNA-binding protein Rbm24 is a key regulator of heart development and required for sarcomere assembly and heart contractility. Yet, its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we link serine/threonine kinase 38 (Stk38) signaling to the regulation of Rbm24 by showing that Rbm24 phosphorylation and its function could be modulated by Stk38. Using co-immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry technique, we identified Stk38 as an endogenous binding partner of Rbm24. Stk38 knockdown resulted in decreased Rbm24 protein level in cardiomyocytes. Further studies using Stk38 kinase inhibitor or activator showed that Rbm24 protein stability was regulated in a kinase activity-dependent manner. Deficiency of Stk38 caused reduction of sarcomere proteins and disarrangement of sarcomere, suggesting that Stk38 is essential for Rbm24 to regulate sarcomere assembly. Our results revealed that Stk38 kinase catalyzes the phosphorylation of Rbm24 during sarcomerogensis and this orchestrates accurate sarcomere alignment. This furthers our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of cardiac sarcomere assembly in both physiologic and pathologic contexts, and uncovers a potential novel pathway to cardiomyopathy through modulating the Stk38/Rbm24 protein activity.
Hormone therapy at early post-menopause increases cognitive control-related prefrontal activity
Authors: Girard Romuald , Météreau Elise , Thomas Julie , Pugeat Michel , Qu Chen , Dreher Jean-Claude
Published: March 2017

Clinical data have been equivocal and controversial as to the benefits to the brain and cognition of hormone therapy (HT) in postmenopausal women. Recent reevaluation of the role of estrogens proposed that HT may effectively prevent the deleterious effects of aging on cognition, and reduces the risks of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, if initiated early at the beginning of menopause. Yet, little is known about the effects of HT on brain activation related to cognitive control, the ability to make flexible decisions in relation to internal goals. Here, we used fMRI to directly test for a modulation of sequential 17β estradiol (2 mg/day) plus oral progesterone (100 mg/day) on task switching-related brain activity in women at early postmenopause. The results showed that HT enhanced dorsolateral prefrontal cortex recruitment during task switching. Between-subjects correlation analyses revealed that women who engaged more the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex showed higher task switching performance after HT administration. These results suggest that HT, when taken early at the beginning of postmenopause, may have beneficial effect on cognitive control prefrontal mechanisms. Together, these findings demonstrate that HT can prevent the appearance of reduced prefrontal cortex activity, a neurophysiological measure observed both in healthy aging and early dementia.
Bio-inspired colorimetric film based on hygroscopic coloration of longhorn beetles (Tmesisternus isabellae)
Authors: Seo Han-bok , Lee Seung-Yop
Published: March 2017

Structure-dependent colour is caused by the interaction of light with photonic crystal structures rather than pigments. The elytra of longhorn beetles Tmesisternus isabellae appear to be iridescent green in a dry state and turn to red when exposed to humidity. Based on the hygroscopic colouration of the longhorn beetle, we have developed centimeter-scale colorimetric opal films using a novel self-assembly method. The micro-channel assisted assembly technique adopts both natural evaporation and rotational forced drying, enhancing the surface binding of silica particles and the packing density by reducing the lattice constant and structural defects. The fabricated large-scale photonic film changes its structural colour from green to red when exposed to water vapour, similarly to the colorimetric feature of the longhorn beetle. The humidity-dependent colour change of the opal film is shown to be reversible and durable over five-hundred cycles of wetting and drying.
Correction: Corrigendum: Ocular exposure to blue-enriched light has an asymmetric influence on neural activity and spatial attention
Authors: Newman Daniel P. , Lockley Steven W. , Loughnane Gerard M. , Martins Ana Carina P. , Abe Rafael , Zoratti Marco T. R. , Kelly Simon P. , O’Neill Megan H. , Rajaratnam Shantha M. W. , O’Connell Redmond G. , Bellgrove Mark A.
Published: March 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 27754; published online: 13 June 2016; updated: 23 March 2017 The Acknowledgements section in this Article is incomplete. “This study was supported by grants from the Australian Research Council (FT130101488; DP150100986). The authors thank Petra C van den Bogert for help with data collection”.
Correction: Corrigendum: Systemic regulation of L-carnitine in nutritional metabolism in zebrafish, Danio rerio
Authors: Li Jia-Min , Li Ling-Yu , Qin Xuan , Ning Li-Jun , Lu Dong-Liang , Li Dong-Liang , Zhang Mei-Ling , Wang Xin , Du Zhen-Yu
Published: March 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 40815; published online: 19 January 2017; updated: 23 March 2017 The original version of this Article contained an error in the spelling of the author Xuan Qin, which was incorrectly given as Xun Qin. This has now been corrected in the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Mechanistic Insights into the Anti-angiogenic Activity of Trypanosoma cruzi Protein 21 and its Potential Impact on the Onset of Chagasic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Teixeira Samuel Cota , Lopes Daiana Silva , Gimenes Sarah Natalie Cirilo , Teixeira Thaise Lara , da Silva Marcelo Santos , Brígido Rebecca Tavares e Silva , da Luz Felipe Andrés Cordero , da Silva Aline Alves , Silva Makswell Almeida , Florentino Pilar Veras , Tavares Paula Cristina Brígido , dos Santos Marlus Alves , Ávila Veridiana de Melo Rodrigues , Silva Marcelo José Barbosa , Elias Maria Carolina , Mortara Renato Arruda , da Silva Claudio Vieira
Published: March 2017

Chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC) is arguably the most important form of the Chagas Disease, caused by the intracellular protozoanTrypanosoma cruzi; it is estimated that 10–30% of chronic patients develop this clinical manifestation. The most common and severe form of CCC can be related to ventricular abnormalities, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, heart blocks, thromboembolic events and sudden death. Therefore, in this study, we proposed to evaluate the anti-angiogenic activity of a recombinant protein fromT. cruzinamed P21 (rP21) and the potential impact of the native protein on CCC. Our data suggest that the anti-angiogenic activity of rP21 depends on the protein’s direct interaction with the CXCR4 receptor. This capacity is likely related to the modulation of the expression of actin and angiogenesis-associated genes. Thus, our results indicate thatT. cruziP21 is an attractive target for the development of innovative therapeutic agents against CCC.
Sedation of mechanically ventilated adults in intensive care unit: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhongheng , Chen Kun , Ni Hongying , Zhang Xiaoling , Fan Haozhe
Published: March 2017

Sedatives are commonly used for mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units (ICU). However, a variety of sedatives are available and their efficacy and safety have been compared in numerous trials with inconsistent results. To resolve uncertainties regarding usefulness of these sedatives, we performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trials comparing sedatives in mechanically ventilated ICU patients were included. Graph-theoretical methods were employed for network meta-analysis. A total of 51 citations comprising 52 RCTs were included in our analysis. Dexmedetomidine showed shorter MV duration than lorazepam (mean difference (MD): 68.7; 95% CI: 18.2–119.3 hours), midazolam (MD: 10.2; 95% CI: 7.7–12.7 hours) and propofol (MD: 3.4; 95% CI: 0.9–5.9 hours). Compared with dexmedetomidine, midazolam was associated with significantly increased risk of delirium (OR: 2.47; 95% CI: 1.17–5.19). Our study shows that dexmedetomidine has potential benefits in reducing duration of MV and lowering the risk of delirium.
Flexible wire-shaped strain sensor from cotton thread for human health and motion detection
Authors: Li Yuan-Qing , Huang Pei , Zhu Wei-Bin , Fu Shao-Yun , Hu Ning , Liao Kin
Published: March 2017

In this work, a wire-shaped flexible strain sensor was fabricated by encapsulating conductive carbon thread (CT) with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer. The key strain sensitive material, CT, was prepared by pyrolysing cotton thread in N2 atmosphere. The CT/PDMS composite wire shows a typical piezo-resistive behavior with high strain sensitivity. The gauge factors (GF) calculated at low strain of 0–4% and high strain of 8–10% are 8.7 and 18.5, respectively, which are much higher than that of the traditional metallic strain sensor (GF around 2). The wire-shaped CT/PDMS composite sensor shows excellent response to cyclic tensile loading within the strain range of 0–10%, the frequency range of 0.01–10 Hz, to up to 2000 cycles. The potential of the wire senor as wearable strain sensor is demonstrated by the finger motion and blood pulse monitoring. Featured by the low costs of cotton wire and PDMS resin, the simple structure and fabrication technique, as well as high performance with miniaturized size, the wire-shaped sensor based on CT/PDMS composite is believed to have a great potential for application in wearable electronics for human health and motion monitoring.
“Breakthrough” osmosis and unusually high power densities in Pressure-Retarded Osmosis in non-ideally semi-permeable supported membranes
Authors: Yaroshchuk Andriy
Published: March 2017

Osmosis is the movement of solvent across a membrane induced by a solute-concentration gradient. It is very important for cell biology. Recently, it has started finding technological applications in the emerging processes of Forward Osmosis and Pressure-Retarded Osmosis. They use ultrathin and dense membranes supported mechanically by much thicker porous layers. Until now, these processes have been modelled by assuming the membrane to be ideally-semipermeable. We show theoretically that allowing for even minor deviations from ideal semipermeability to solvent can give rise to a previously overlooked mode of “breakthrough” osmosis. Here the rate of osmosis is very large (compared to the conventional mode) and practically unaffected by the so-called Internal Concentration Polarization. In Pressure-Retarded Osmosis, the power densities can easily exceed the conventional mode by one order of magnitude. Much more robust support layers can be used, which is an important technical advantage (reduced membrane damage) in Pressure-Retarded Osmosis.
Altered peripheral immune profiles in treatment-resistant depression: response to ketamine and prediction of treatment outcome
Authors: Kiraly D D , Horn S R , Van Dam N T , Costi S , Schwartz J , Kim-Schulze S , Patel M , Hodes G E , Russo S J , Merad M , Iosifescu D V , Charney D S , Murrough J W
Published: March 2017

A subset of patients with depression have elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, and some studies demonstrate interaction between inflammatory factors and treatment outcome. However, most studies focus on only a narrow subset of factors in a patient sample. In the current study, we analyzed broad immune profiles in blood from patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) at baseline and following treatment with the glutamate modulator ketamine. Serum was analyzed from 26 healthy control and 33 actively depressed TRD patients free of antidepressant medication, and matched for age, sex and body mass index. All subjects provided baseline blood samples, and TRD subjects had additional blood draw at 4 and 24 h following intravenous infusion of ketamine (0.5 mg kg−1). Samples underwent multiplex analysis of 41 cytokines, chemokines and growth factors using quantitative immunoassay technology. Our a priori hypothesis was that TRD patients would show elevations in canonical pro-inflammatory cytokines; analyses demonstrated significant elevation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6. Further exploratory analyses revealed significant regulation of four additional soluble factors in patients with TRD. Several cytokines showed transient changes in level after ketamine, but none correlated with treatment response. Low pretreatment levels of fibroblast growth factor 2 were associated with ketamine treatment response. In sum, we found that patients with TRD demonstrate a unique pattern of increased inflammatory mediators, chemokines and colony-stimulating factors, providing support for the immune hypothesis of TRD. These patterns suggest novel treatment targets for the subset of patients with TRD who evidence dysregulated immune functioning.
Application of machine/statistical learning, artificial intelligence and statistical experimental design for the modeling and optimization of methylene blue and Cd(ii) removal from a binary aqueous solution by natural walnut carbon
Authors: Mazaheri H. , Ghaedi M. , Ahmadi Azqhandi M. H. , Asfaram A.
Published: March 2017

We developed and constructed a novel model that could make reliable predictions on the adsorption of methylene blue dye and Cd2+ions from an aqueous medium.
Synthesis and structural characterization of electrochemically reversible bisferrocenes containing bis(acyl-thiourea)s: enantiomers and conformers
Authors: Duan Xin-E , Li Rui , Tong Hong-Bo , Li Ying-Qi , Bai Sheng-Di , Guo Yu-Jing , Liu Dian-Sheng
Published: March 2017

Enantiomeric and conformational isomers of chiral bisferrocenyl-modified bis(acyl-thiourea)s; their crystal packing and electrochemically reversible redox reaction properties.
Photoluminescence and optical nonlinearity of CdS quantum dots synthesized in a functional copolymer hydrogel template
Authors: Antony Jolly Vakayil , Pillai Jisha J. , Kurian Philip , Nampoori V. P. N. , Kochimoolayil George Elias
Published: March 2017

The acrylic acid content in the copolymer influences the size of the CdS QDs as well as the linear and nonlinear optical properties of the copolymer.
One-pot surface engineering of battery electrode materials with metallic SWCNT-enriched, ivy-like conductive nanonets
Authors: Yoo JongTae , Ju Young-Wan , Jang Ye-Ri , Gwon Ohhun , Park Sodam , Kim Ju-Myung , Lee Chang Kee , Lee Sun-Young , Yeon Sun-Hwa , Kim Guntae , Lee Sang-Young
Published: March 2017

A facile and versatile surface engineering method based on metallic single-walled carbon nanotube (mSWCNT)-enriched, ivy-like conductive nanonets (mSC nanonets) for electrode materials was presented.
Mimicking multivalent protein–carbohydrate interactions for monitoring the glucosamine level in biological fluids and pharmaceutical tablets
Authors: Dey Nilanjan , Bhattacharya Santanu
Published: March 2017

Easily synthesizable ESIPT probe for dual mode sensing of glucosamine in pure water.
4-Cyanopyridine, a versatile mono- and bidentate ligand. Crystal structures of related coordination polymers determined by X-ray powder diffraction
Authors: Zhao Haishuang , Bodach Alexander , Heine Miriam , Krysiak Yasar , Glinnemann Jürgen , Alig Edith , Fink Lothar , Schmidt Martin U.
Published: March 2017

4-Cyanopyridine (4-CNpy) as a monodentate ligand in single or double chains or as a bidentate ligand in two-dimensional networks.
Correction: Hypercrosslinked porous polymer materials: design, synthesis, and applications
Authors: Tan Liangxiao , Tan Bien
Published: March 2017

Correction for ‘Hypercrosslinked porous polymer materials: design, synthesis, and applications’ by Liangxiao Tan et al., Chem. Soc. Rev., 2017, DOI: 10.1039/c6cs00851h.
A magnetisation and Mössbauer study of triazole (M1−x2+Mx3+)M3+F5(Htaz)1−x(taz)x weberites (M = Fe, Co, Mn, Zn, Ga, V)
Authors: Albino M. , Clark L. , Lhoste J. , Payen C. , Grenèche J.-M. , Lightfoot P. , Maisonneuve V. , Leblanc M.
Published: March 2017

Several (M1−x2+Mx3+)M3+F5(Htaz)1−x(taz)x weberites, magnetically frustrated, exhibit negative magnetisations. 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry evidences a significant decrease of TN for vacuum-treated samples.
Visualisation of developmental ossification using trace element mapping
Authors: Anné Jennifer , Edwards Nicholas P. , van Veelen Arjen , Egerton Victoria M. , Manning Phillip L. , Mosselmans J. Fredrick W. , Parry Stephen , Sellers William I. , Buckley Michael , Wogelius Roy A.
Published: March 2017

Endochondral ossification is the process by which bone is deposited during development, growth and repair of the skeleton.
On–off–on fluorescence sensing of glutathione in food samples based on a graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4)–Cu2+strategy
Authors: Yang Chunlei , Wang Xiu , Liu Haiyun , Ge Shenguang , Yu Jinghua , Yan Mei
Published: March 2017

A novel fluorescence sensor based on a g-C3N4nanosheet–Cu2+system has been developed for rapid, sensitive and selective sensing of glutathione (GSH) in food samples.
Cyclic dipeptide based cell-penetrating peptidomimetics for effective DNA delivery
Authors: Madhu Chilakapati , Voshavar Chandrashekhar , Rajasekhar K. , Govindaraju Thimmaiah
Published: March 2017

A cyclic dipeptide as an unnatural amino acid employed in the preparation of novel cell penetrating peptidomimetics and their effective DNA delivery is demonstrated.
Effect of melt and solution electrospinning on the formation and structure of poly(vinylidene fluoride) fibres
Authors: Asai Hanako , Kikuchi Marina , Shimada Naoki , Nakane Koji
Published: March 2017

Linear laser melt electrospinning and conventional solution electrospinning.
Adamantyl derivatives and rearranged benzophenones from Garcinia xanthochymus fruits
Authors: Chen Yu , Gan Fei , Jin Shan , Liu Hui , Wu Shijun , Yang Wenting , Yang Guangzhong
Published: March 2017

Three new adamantyl derivatives and two new rearranged benzophenones from the fruits of G. xanthochymus displayed anti-proliferative activities.
Design, synthesis, and structural characterization of the first dithienocyclopentacarbazole-based n-type organic semiconductor and its application in non-fullerene polymer solar cells
Authors: Cao Qunfang , Xiong Wentao , Chen Huajie , Cai Guosheng , Wang Guo , Zheng Liping , Sun Yanming
Published: March 2017

A novel dithienocyclopentacarbazole-containing n-type organic semiconductor (DTCC–IC) was designed and synthesized as the acceptor for non-fullerene solar cells.
Diabetes confers in vitro calcific potential on serum which associates with in vivo vascular calcification
Authors: Patidar Ashish , Singh Dhruv K. , Thakur Shori , Winocour Peter , Farrington Ken , Baydoun Anwar R.
Published: March 2017

Although vascular calcification (VC) is prevalent in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Neither is it known whether T2DM confers calcific potential (CP) on serum, enabling it to induce VC outside the disease milieu. We, therefore, investigated the CP of serum from controls and subjects with T2DM with and without in vivo VC. Samples from 20 healthy controls and 44 age- and sex-matched patients with T2DM with modification of diet in renal disease estimated glomerular filtration rate (MDRD-4 eGFR) > 60 ml·min−1 were analysed for CP using rat aortic smooth muscle cells in vitro. CT scans of femoral arteries identified individuals with in vivo calcification. Serum from subjects with T2DM revealed significantly greater CP than controls. This was further enhanced in the presence of in vivo VC. Addition of β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) plus CaCl2 increased the CP of T2DM serum but not of controls. Along with age, CP was an independent predictor of the presence of VC. In receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis, CP was a significant predictor of femoral arterial VC (C-statistic 0.70: P=0.009). The distribution of CP was bimodal around a cutoff of 100 nmoles of Ca2+ protein mg−1, with a higher proportion of Type 2 diabetes subjects with in vivo calcification (T2DM+) sera above the cutoff value. This group also showed elevated levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and matrix Gla protein (MGP). Diabetes confers CP on the serum which is enhanced by the presence of in vivo VC. The CP acquired may be dependent on levels of OPG and MGP. These findings may be clinically relevant for early identification of individuals at risk of VC and for informing therapeutic strategies.
Wideband slotline antenna with frequency‐spatial steerable notch‐band in radiation gain
Authors: Wang Sheng‐Guang , Lu Wen‐Jun , Guo Chun‐Rui , Zhu Lei
Published: March 2017

Design approach of a novel wideband slotline antenna is proposed. An offset‐fed structure is applied to simultaneously excite the first three radiation modes within a slotline radiator, without introducing external less‐radiative resonant modes. By controlling the excitation of its full‐wavelength radiation mode, the proposed slotline antenna exhibits a frequency‐spatial steerable notch‐band characteristic in radiation gain within a wide‐impedance bandwidth.
Analysis and controller design for stand‐alone VSIs in synchronous reference frame
Authors: Ramezani Malek , Li Shuhui , Golestan Saeed
Published: March 2017

The common practice for controlling the stand‐alone voltage source inverters (VSIs) is to transform abc voltage and current signals to DC signals using the dq transformation, which makes it possible to control the new DC voltage and current signals just using simple proportional‐integral controllers with a zero steady‐state tracking error. However, the transformation causes coupling terms between d‐ and q‐axis components in both current control loops and voltage control loops, which deteriorate the dynamic and steady‐state performance of the control system. This study presents a step‐by‐step graphical analysis and design approach for a three‐phase stand‐alone VSI system in the dq reference frame, which provides a clear systematic decoupling process to design the inner‐ and outer‐loop current and voltage controllers, respectively. The closed‐loop d‐ and q‐axis output impedances of the stand‐alone VSI system by considering the coupling effects between axes are also formulated, modelled, and evaluated. The study investigates how the decoupling and compensating terms added in the current and voltage controllers affect the dynamic performance and output dq impedances of the VSI system. Simulation and hardware results verify the effectiveness of the graphic design and analysis strategy.
Mapping of accumulation of SeNPs in developing zebrafish embryos and larvae: a new method using SEM with energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer
Authors: Kalishwaralal Kalimuthu , Jeyabharathi Subhaschandrabose , Sundar Krishnan , Muthukumaran Azhaguchamy
Published: March 2017

Zebrafish embryos have been used as a popular and ideal model system for the study of drug delivery and nanotoxicology. In the present study, synthesised selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were characterised using scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectrometer. Early blastula stage (48 h post‐fertilisation) zebrafish embryos and larvae were treated with SeNPs, and SeNPs exposed embryos and larvae were fixed with 1% of formaldehyde and analysed for the accumulation of SeNPs in zebrafish. Here, a new method for studying SeNPs accumulation and surface distribution in zebrafish embryos and larvae using SEM‐EDX mapping is reported.
Hepatic Encephalopathy in Malaria or Artesunate Toxicity: A Dilemma in Diagnosis
Authors: Baliga Kiran , Keshav Murali , Baliga Santharam , Gopakumar K.
Published: March 2017

Malaria remains an overwhelming problem with around 214 million cases reported worldwide each year. It remains a major health problem in the tropical developing countries and India accounts for 70% of the total malaria incidence in the Southeast Asia region. Even though, artesunate, a novel drug used in the treatment of chloroquine-resistant cases of Plasmodium falciparum infection causes transient transaminitis (elevation of alanine and aspartate transaminases), hepatitis and hepatic encephalopathy are very rare. We encountered a child with falciparum malaria, who accidently ingested artesunate tablets (16 mg/kg) and developed hepatic encephalopathy with clinical and biochemical improvement in a matter of 4 to 5 days. There are only a few reports of children with malaria developing hepatic encephalopathy, with or without coinfection with hepatotropic viruses. Also, there are no reports of hepatic encephalopathy secondary to artesunate overdose, creating a dilemma in diagnosis and management.
A model for capillary rise in nano-channels with inherent surface roughness
Authors: Shen Anqi , Liu Yikun , Qiu Xiaohui , Lu Yongjun , Liang Shuang
Published: March 2017

This paper presents the results of an analytical model for the capillary rise in nano-channels considering the effect of inherent surface roughness. The model was derived using the classical Lucas-Washburn model and the momentum conservation equation, while considering the inherent surface roughness of an equivalent porous medium layer (PML). The calculated frictional resistance due to the PML reflects the friction of fluid flowing through nano-channels. The capillary imbibition in the nano-channels is in the range of low-Reynolds-number flow, and because of its low flow-rate, the inertia force can be ignored in this study. This analytical model was validated by comparing it with nano-capillary rise experiments and other simulated values such as the classical Lucas-Washburn (LW) model and the classical LW model with a 40% fluid viscosity increment. The analytical model produces the closest results to those obtained in the experiments, and it can explain the lower-than-expected (using the LW equation) height of capillary rise obtained in the experiments.
Direct observation of dramatically enhanced hole formation in a perovskite-solar-cell material spiro-OMeTAD by Li-TFSI doping
Authors: Namatame Miki , Yabusaki Masaki , Watanabe Takahiro , Ogomi Yuhei , Hayase Shuzi , Marumoto Kazuhiro
Published: March 2017

Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy of 2,2′,7,7′-tetrakis-(N,N-di-p-methoxyphenylamine)9,9′-spirobifluorene (spiro-OMeTAD) thin films and perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3)/spiro-OMeTAD layered films are reported. Clear ESR signals (g = 2.0030) were observed by adding a dopant lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Li-TFSI) to the spiro-OMeTAD thin films, which directly showed the spin (hole) formation in spiro-OMeTAD by the Li-TFSI doping. The number of spins in the spiro-OMeTAD thin film has increased by more than two orders of magnitude by the Li-TFSI doping under dark conditions, which demonstrates from a microscopic viewpoint that Li-TFSI has high doping effects for the spiro-OMeTAD thin films. Under simulated solar irradiation, the spin density in the spiro-OMeTAD thin films and the perovskite/spiro-OMeTAD layered films largely increased by the Li-TFST doping due to the formation of long-lived holes in spiro-OMeTAD. The transient responses of the number of photogenerated spins, Nspin, of the layered films upon the light irradiation showed the increase and the decrease in the Nspin due to the hole transfer and recombination at the perovskite/spiro-OMeTAD interface. The states of long-lived holes in the spiro-OMeTAD layers were analyzed using the simulation of the ESR spectra, which reveals the mobile photogenerated holes with a lifetime >10 μs.
MgGa2O4 spinel barrier for magnetic tunnel junctions: Coherent tunneling and low barrier height
Authors: Sukegawa Hiroaki , Kato Yushi , Belmoubarik Mohamed , Cheng P.-H. , Daibou Tadaomi , Shimomura Naoharu , Kamiguchi Yuuzo , Ito Junichi , Yoda Hiroaki , Ohkubo Tadakatsu , Mitani Seiji , Hono Kazuhiro
Published: March 2017

Epitaxial Fe/magnesium gallium spinel oxide (MgGa2O4)/Fe(001) magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) were fabricated by magnetron sputtering. A tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) ratio up to 121% at room temperature (196% at 4 K) was observed, suggesting a TMR enhancement by the coherent tunneling effect in the MgGa2O4 barrier. The MgGa2O4 layer had a spinel structure and it showed good lattice matching with the Fe layers owing to slight tetragonal lattice distortion of MgGa2O4. Barrier thickness dependence of the tunneling resistance and current-voltage characteristics revealed that the height of the MgGa2O4 barrier is much lower than that of an MgAl2O4 barrier. This study demonstrates the potential of Ga-based spinel oxides for MTJ barriers having a large TMR ratio at a low resistance area product.
On stability of ground states for finite crystals in the Schrödinger–Poisson model
Authors: Komech A. , Kopylova E.
Published: March 2017

We consider the Schrödinger–Poisson–Newton equations for finite crystals under periodic boundary conditions with one ion per cell of a lattice. The electrons are described by one-particle Schrödinger equation. Our main results are (i) the global dynamics with moving ions and (ii) the orbital stability of periodic ground state under a novel Jellium and Wiener-type conditions on the ion charge density. Under the Jellium condition, both ionic and electronic charge densities for the ground state are uniform.
Modeling and test of a kinaesthetic actuator based on MR fluid for haptic applications
Authors: Yang Tae-Heon , Koo Jeong-Hoi , Kim Sang-Youn , Kwon Dong-Soo
Published: March 2017

Haptic display units have been widely used for conveying button sensations to users, primarily employing vibrotactile actuators. However, the human feeling for pressing buttons mainly relies on kinaesthetic sensations (rather than vibrotactile sensations), and little studies exist on small-scale kinaesthetic haptic units. Thus, the primary goals of this paper are to design a miniature kinaesthetic actuator based on Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid that can convey various button-clicking sensations and to experimentally evaluate its haptic performance. The design focuses of the proposed actuator were to produce sufficiently large actuation forces (resistive forces) for human users in a given size constraint and to offer a wide range of actuation forces for conveying vivid haptic sensations to users. To this end, this study first performed a series of parametric studies using mathematical force models for multiple operating modes of MR fluid in conjunction with finite element electromagnetism analysis. After selecting design parameters based on parametric studies, a prototype actuator was constructed, and its performance was evaluated using a dynamic mechanical analyzer. It measured the actuator’s resistive force with a varying stroke (pressed depth) up to 1 mm and a varying input current from 0 A to 200 mA. The results show that the proposed actuator creates a wide range of resistive forces from around 2 N (off-state) to over 9.5 N at 200 mA. In order to assess the prototype’s performance in the terms of the haptic application prospective, a maximum force rate was calculated to determine just noticeable difference in force changes for the 1 mm stoke of the actuator. The results show that the force rate is sufficient to mimic various levels of button sensations, indicating that the proposed kinaesthetic actuator can offer a wide range of resistive force changes that can be conveyed to human operators.
Determination of bimetallic architectures in nanometer-scale catalysts by combining molecular dynamics simulations with x-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Timoshenko Janis , Keller Kayla R. , Frenkel Anatoly I.
Published: March 2017

Here we present an approach for the determination of an atomic structure of small bimetallic nanoparticles by combining extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and classical molecular dynamics simulations based on the Sutton-Chen potential. The proposed approach is illustrated in the example of PdAu nanoparticles with ca 100 atoms and narrow size and compositional distributions. Using a direct modeling approach and no adjustable parameters, we were able to reproduce the size and shape of nanoparticles as well as the intra-particle distributions of atoms and metal mixing ratios and to explore the influence of these parameters on the local structure and dynamics in nanoparticles.
High-space resolution imaging plate analysis of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light from tin laser-produced plasmas
Authors: Musgrave Christopher S. A. , Murakami Takehiro , Ugomori Teruyuki , Yoshida Kensuke , Fujioka Shinsuke , Nishimura Hiroaki , Atarashi Hironori , Iyoda Tomokazu , Nagai Keiji
Published: March 2017

With the advent of high volume manufacturing capabilities by extreme ultraviolet lithography, constant improvements in light source design and cost-efficiency are required. Currently, light intensity and conversion efficiency (CE) measurments are obtained by charged couple devices, faraday cups etc, but also phoshpor imaging plates (IPs) (BaFBr:Eu). IPs are sensitive to light and high-energy species, which is ideal for studying extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light from laser produced plasmas (LPPs). In this work, we used IPs to observe a large angular distribution (10°-90°). We ablated a tin target by high-energy lasers (1064 nm Nd:YAG, 1010 and 1011 W/cm2) to generate the EUV light. The europium ions in the IP were trapped in a higher energy state from exposure to EUV light and high-energy species. The light intensity was angular dependent; therefore excitation of the IP depends on the angle, and so highly informative about the LPP. We obtained high-space resolution (345 μm, 0.2°) angular distribution and grazing spectrometer (5-20 nm grate) data simultaneously at different target to IP distances (103 mm and 200 mm). Two laser systems and IP types (BAS-TR and BAS-SR) were also compared. The cosine fitting values from the IP data were used to calculate the CE to be 1.6% (SD ± 0.2) at 13.5 nm 2% bandwidth. Finally, a practical assessment of IPs and a damage issue are disclosed.
On the physical operation and optimization of the p-GaN gate in normally-off GaN HEMT devices
Authors: Efthymiou L. , Longobardi G. , Camuso G. , Chien T. , Chen M. , Udrea F.
Published: March 2017

In this study, an investigation is undertaken to determine the effect of gate design parameters on the on-state characteristics (threshold voltage and gate turn-on voltage) of pGaN/AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). Design parameters considered are pGaN doping and gate metal work function. The analysis considers the effects of variations on these parameters using a TCAD model matched with experimental results. A better understanding of the underlying physics governing the operation of these devices is achieved with a view to enable better optimization of such gate designs.
A cell-based clustering model for the reset statistics in RRAM
Authors: Sun Hao , Zhang Meiyun , Li Yu , Long Shibing , Liu Qi , Lv Hangbing , Suñé Jordi , Liu Ming
Published: March 2017

In this letter, the experimental reset voltage and current statistics in a Cu/HfO2/Pt RRAM device are found to deviate from the Weibull model in the high percentiles. A clustering model is developed for the reset statistics based on the cell-based model. The relationship between the parameters (Weibull slope, scale factor, and clustering factor) of the clustering model and on-state resistance is established. The modeling results are in good agreement with the experimental data of reset voltage and reset current statistics. Our model explains well why the tail bits of experimental data appear in the high percentiles. The implicit meaning of the scale factor of the clustering model is explored, which represents the threshold point that defects emerge to cluster.
A non-invasive photoacoustic and ultrasonic method for the measurement of glucose solution concentration
Authors: Zhao Siwei , Tao Wei , He Qiaozhi , Zhao Hui , Cao Wenwu
Published: March 2017

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease affecting nearly 400 million people worldwide. In order to manage the disease, patients need to monitor the blood glucose level by puncturing the finger several times a day, which is uncomfortable and inconvenient. We present here a potential non-invasive monitoring method based on the velocity of ultrasonic waves generated in glucose solution by the photoacoustic principal, which can recognize the glucose concentration down to 20mg/dL. In order to apply this method to warm bodies, we carefully designed the experiment and performed measurements from 30 °C to 50 °C to generate a set of calibration curves, which may be used by engineers to build devices. Most importantly, we have theoretically explained the relationship between the compressibility and the glucose concentration. Our results show that the compressibility of solution decreases with the glucose concentration, which clarified the controversy between theory and experiment results in the literature. The derived formula is generally validity, which can be used to nondestructively measure solution concentration for other types of solutions using photoacoustic principle.
A finite-volume fast diffusion-limited aggregation model for predicting the coagulation rate of mixed low-ionized system
Authors: Feng Yu , Wang Guang , Ruan Leidan , Du Ai
Published: March 2017

Accompanied with the changing of coagulation time, the micro-structure of aerogel can be controlled by adding Polyacrylic acid (PAA) into sol system. We simulate the process of particles aggregation contains attracting molecular chains based on diffusion-limited cluster aggregation (DLCA). Compared with the normal coagulation system, the coagulation rate of the system that contains attracting chains are sped up first and then slowed down. The results of the stimulation point out that the interaction between particles and chains not only accelerates the motion of particles, but also separates the region and constrains the clusters’ motion. These two effects are coexisting but the attracting interaction play a dominant role in the early state while the volume of chains has a dramatic influence on cluster’s motion in late states.
BORC/kinesin-1 ensemble drives polarized transport of lysosomes into the axon
Authors: Farías Ginny G. , Guardia Carlos M. , De Pace Raffaella , Britt Dylan J. , Bonifacino Juan S.
Published: March 2017

Significance

Lysosomes are found in all neuronal domains, including the soma, axon, and dendrites. How neurons are transported in these domains, however, remains poorly understood. In the present study, we show that a protein ensemble comprising BORC, Arl8, SKIP, and kinesin-1 specifically drives lysosome transport into the axon and not the dendrites. We also show that this mechanism of axonal lysosome transport is essential for maintenance of growth-cone dynamics and turnover of autophagosomes in the distal axon. These findings imply that transport of lysosomes into the axon and the dendrites occurs by different mechanisms, and demonstrate that BORC-regulated lysosome transport is critical for axonal functions.
Prion protein dynamics before aggregation
Authors: Srivastava Kinshuk Raj , Lapidus Lisa J.
Published: March 2017

Significance

The prion protein aggregates and causes neurodegenerative diseases in many mammalian species. The aggregated protein is transmissible to other organisms and species. Aggregation is believed to originate in cellular endosomes at low pH. We have measured reconfiguration of unfolded prion of two species under a variety of conditions and found a wide range of rates. At low pH the reconfiguration rate for hamster prion is in the middle of the measured range, but increases when an aggregation inhibitor is added. These results agree with a model in which aggregation is fastest when reconfiguration is about the same rate as bimolecular association, and suggest a new approach to finding drugs for prion diseases in which reconfiguration is altered to prevent aggregation.
Effectiveness of UNAIDS targets and HIV vaccination across 127 countries
Authors: Medlock Jan , Pandey Abhishek , Parpia Alyssa S. , Tang Amber , Skrip Laura A. , Galvani Alison P.
Published: March 2017

Significance

Despite extraordinary advances in the treatment of HIV, the global pandemic has yet to be reversed. We developed a mathematical model for 127 countries to evaluate Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) targets for expanding diagnosis and treatment of the infected, and partially efficacious HIV vaccination. Under the current levels of diagnosis and treatment, we estimated 49 million new HIV cases globally from 2015 to 2035. Achieving the ambitious UNAIDS target is predicted to avert 25 million of these new infections, with an additional 6.3 million averted by the 2020 introduction of a 50%-efficacy vaccine. Our study provides country-specific impacts of a partially effective HIV vaccine and demonstrates its importance to the elimination of HIV transmission globally.
Ultrathin dendrimer–graphene oxide composite film for stable cycling lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Liu Wen , Jiang Jianbing , Yang Ke R. , Mi Yingying , Kumaravadivel Piranavan , Zhong Yiren , Fan Qi , Weng Zhe , Wu Zishan , Cha Judy J. , Zhou Henghui , Batista Victor S. , Brudvig Gary W. , Wang Hailiang
Published: March 2017

Significance

The promise of lithium–sulfur batteries for future electric transportation and stationary energy storage is being limited by their poor cycling stability. Previous approaches to improvement often involve incorporating additional components with significant dead weight or volume in battery structures. We develop an ultrathin functionalized dendrimer–graphene oxide composite film which can be applied to virtually any sulfur cathode to alleviate capacity fading over battery cycling without compromising the energy or power density of the entire battery. The design provides a new strategy for confining lithium polysulfide intermediates and thus stabilizing lithium–sulfur batteries. It also brings a suitable platform for elucidating the underlying materials and surface chemistry.
Ena/VASP proteins regulate activated T-cell trafficking by promoting diapedesis during transendothelial migration
Authors: Estin Miriam L. , Thompson Scott B. , Traxinger Brianna , Fisher Marlie H. , Friedman Rachel S. , Jacobelli Jordan
Published: March 2017

Significance

T-cell trafficking is essential for the function of the adaptive immune system, and regulation of T-cell entry into tissues can be an effective therapy in diseases such as autoimmunity. However, the mechanisms regulating T-cell migration and trafficking are poorly understood. We have identified a key role for Ena/VASP (vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein) family cytoskeletal effectors selectively in activated T-cell trafficking to secondary lymphoid organs and to peripheral sites of inflammation. Ena/VASP deficiency in T cells causes a defect in α4 integrin function, which impairs transendothelial migration. Our work suggests that further studies of the Ena/VASP pathway in T cells could identify therapeutically useful ways to more selectively modulate α4 integrin activity and activated T-cell trafficking.