bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new oil/membrane approach for integrated sweat sampling and sensing: sample volumes reduced from μL's to nL's and reduction of analyte contamination from skin
Authors: Peng R. , Sonner Z. , Hauke A. , Wilder E. , Kasting J. , Gaillard T. , Swaille D. , Sherman F. , Mao X. , Hagen J. , Murdock R. , Heikenfeld J.
Published: October 2016

Reported here is a new paradigm in sweat sampling and sensing, where sample volumes are dramatically reduced and where analyte contamination from the skin surface is mitigated.
Nitrogen-doped carbon dots as a fluorescence probe suitable for sensing Fe3+ under acidic conditions
Authors: Li Guangming , Lv Nan , Bi Wenzhi , Zhang Jilin , Ni Jiazuan
Published: October 2016

The N-CDs with primary amines and catechol groups on the surface serve as a fluorescence probe for sensing Fe3+ at low pH.
Cationic-exchange approach for conversion of two dimensional CdS to two dimensional Ag2S nanowires with an intermediate core–shell nanostructure towards supercapacitor application
Authors: Nair Nikila , Sankapal Babasaheb R.
Published: October 2016

A simple and facile chemical route for CdS, CdS/Ag2S and Ag2S nanowire surface architecture towards electrochemical supercapacitor application.
Effects of the incorporation of bithiophene instead of thiophene between the pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3-dione units of a bis(pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3-dione)-based polymer for polymer solar cells
Authors: Tamilavan Vellaiappillai , Kim Seungmin , Sung Ji Yeong , Lee Dal Yong , Cho Shinuk , Jin Youngeup , Jeong Junghyun , Park Sung Heum , Hyun Myung Ho
Published: October 2016

The effect of a connecting spacer unit on the properties of bis(pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3-dione)-based polymers was studied.
Preparation via flocculation of reduced graphene oxide/cationic polyacrylamide composites and their electrochemical properties
Authors: Wu Li-Li , Deng Fei-Rong , Zhang Chao-Can
Published: October 2016

We report a novel RGO/CPAM composite, fabricated on a gram scale, which has potential applications as an electrode material for use in supercapacitors.
A comparison of the oxidation of lignin model compounds in conventional and ionic liquid solvents and application to the oxidation of lignin
Authors: Yao Soledad G. , Meier Mark S. , Pace III Robert B. , Crocker Mark
Published: October 2016

The oxidation of lignin model compounds in ionic liquid solvents was investigated as a prelude to the oxidation of lignin in these solvents where the polymer is appreciably soluble.
Palladium(ii) tetrasulfophthalocyanine covalently immobilized on keratin protein grafted graphene oxide nanosheets as a new high-performance catalyst for C–C coupling reactions
Authors: Hezarkhani Zeinab , Shaabani Ahmad
Published: October 2016

Covalent immobilization of palladium(ii) tetrasulfophthalocyanine on keratin grafted graphene oxide nanosheets for catalytic application in C–C coupling reactions.
A highly sensitive and selective turn-on fluorescent probe for Pb(ii) ions based on a coumarin–quinoline platform
Authors: Wu Guangfu , Li Mingxin , Zhu Jieji , Lai King Wai Chiu , Tong Qingxiao , Lu Feng
Published: October 2016

A new fluorescent probeT1, which contained a coumarin fluorophore with a triazole substituted 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) receptor and a Schiff base spacer, was rationally designed and synthesized.
Structure-dependent electronic transition in a new type of π-electron delocalized multi-sulfur bis(dithiolene)nickel complex
Authors: Yu Qin , Ge Jing-Yuan , Lv Zhong-Peng , Wang Hai-Ying , Zuo Jing-Lin
Published: October 2016

Four new nickel bis(dithiolene) complexes were synthesized and characterized. The UV-vis-NIR spectra and DFT calculations indicate that their HOMO and LUMO energy levels are highly depended on the donating/withdrawing abilities of their substituents.
m-Cresol affects the lipid bilayer in membrane models and living neurons
Authors: Paiva T. O. , Bastos A. E. P. , Marquês J. T. , Viana A. S. , Lima P. A. , de Almeida R. F. M.
Published: October 2016

A preferential interaction ofm-cresol with high dipole-potential cholesterol/sphingomyelin-enriched lipid domains jeopardizes membrane integrity, explaining the toxicity ofm-cresol-containing insulin formulations.
Selective production of methanol by the electrochemical reduction of CO2 on boron-doped diamond electrodes in aqueous ammonia solution
Authors: Jiwanti Prastika K. , Natsui Keisuke , Nakata Kazuya , Einaga Yasuaki
Published: October 2016

The electrochemical reduction of CO2 was investigated in an aqueous ammonia solution using boron-doped diamond electrodes.
One-step synthesis of hierarchical Ni–Fe–Al layered double hydroxide with excellent sensing properties for NOx at room temperature
Authors: Hong Dahai , Zhang Jiawei , Rehman Afrasiab Ur , Gong Lihong , Zhou Jiao , Kan Kan , Li Li , Shi Keying
Published: October 2016

Hierarchical flower-like Ni–Al-layered and Ni–Fe–Al-layered double hydroxide intercalation compounds were synthesized and showed good sensing for NOx at room temperature.
Catalytic amination of diethylene glycol with tertiarybutylamine over Ni–Al2O3 catalysts with different Ni/Al ratios
Authors: Cheng Dongdong , Wang Zhenlu , Xia Yanyang , Wang Yumeng , Zhang Wenxiang , Zhu Wanchun
Published: October 2016

The catalytic amination of diethylene glycol (DEG) with tertiarybutylamine (TBA) to tertiarybutylaminoethoxyethanol (TBEE) was investigated on Ni–Al2O3 heterogeneous catalysts that were prepared using the co-precipitation method.
Reduced graphene oxide modified TiO2semiconductor materials for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Wei Liguo , Chen Shishan , Yang Yulin , Dong Yongli , Song Weina , Fan Ruiqin
Published: October 2016

An optimal amount of rGO modified TiO2semiconductor material could enhance the efficiency of DSSCs.
Enhanced adsorption of orthophosphate and copper onto hydrochar derived from sewage sludge by KOH activation
Authors: Spataru Ana , Jain Rohan , Chung Jae Wook , Gerner Gabriel , Krebs Rolf , Lens Piet N. L.
Published: October 2016

Hydrochar, produced by hydrothermal carbonization of sewage sludge, adsorbs orthophosphate to improve effluent quality, recover & reutilize phosphorous and positively impact sewage sludge management.
Structure-induced catalysis enhancement of Cu-amino catalysts for rapidly selective oxidation of sulfides in the presence of H2O2
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Hui , Yang Xu-Sheng , Zhang Qing-Qing , Wang Liang , He Ming-Yang , Chen Qun , Huang Xian-Feng
Published: October 2016

A Cu-amino coordination polymer promotes rapid sulfoxidation of benzyl phenyl sulfide toward the sulfoxide with high conversion and selectivity.
Study on the structural and electrocatalytic properties of Ba2+- and Eu3+-doped silica xerogels as sensory platforms
Authors: Raymundo-Pereira Paulo A. , Ceccato Diego A. , Junior Airton G. B. , Teixeira Marcos F. S. , Lima Sergio A. M. , Pires Ana. M.
Published: October 2016

This work reports on the sol–gel synthesis of barium- and europium-doped silica xerogel and its use as an electrocatalytic sensor.
TiO2-based photoanodes modified with GO and MoS2layered materials
Authors: Trenczek-Zajac Anita , Banas Joanna , Radecka Marta
Published: October 2016

MoS2/TiO2and GO/TiO2nanocomposites synthesizedviaelectrodeposition (GO, MoS2) with enhanced photocurrent response.
The shape memory, and the mechanical and thermal properties of TPU/ABS/CNT: a ternary polymer composite
Authors: Memarian F. , Fereidoon A. , Ghorbanzadeh Ahangari M.
Published: October 2016

Polymer blend nanocomposites based on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomer, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and multi-walled nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared via a simple melt blending process.
Oxidation mechanism of molecular oxygen over cyclohexene catalyzed by a cobaltl-glutamic acid complex
Authors: Wei Y. N. , Li H. , Yue F. , Xu Q. , Wang J. D. , Zhang Y.
Published: October 2016

We introduce a new strategy towards the cyclohexene oxidation reaction, which is driven by molecular oxygen with a cobalt(ii)/amine acid complex as the catalyst without any solvents.
Effect of pH and temperature on conformational equilibria and aggregation behaviour of curcumin in aqueous binary mixtures of ethanol
Authors: Bhatia Nidhi K. , Kishor Shyam , Katyal Nidhi , Gogoi Pankaj , Narang Payal , Deep Shashank
Published: October 2016

Conformational equilibria of curcumin, a potential therapeutic agent, can be modulated by changing pH, temperature and solvent composition.
Photochromic benzo[b]phosphole oxide with excellent thermal irreversibility and fatigue resistance in the thin film solid state via direct attachment of dithienyl units to the weakly aromatic heterocycle
Authors: Wu Nathan Man-Wai , Wong Hok-Lai , Yam Vivian Wing-Wah
Published: October 2016

Direct attachment of a photoactive bis-thienyl unit to benzo[b]phosphole oxide has led to a new photochromic compound that shows excellent performance in ambient thin film conditions.
Alginate microcapsules co-embedded with MSCs and anti-EGF mAb for the induction of hair cell-like cells in guinea pigs by taking advantage of host EGF
Authors: Zhong Cuiping , Shen Hongwei , Han Yu , Wang Shuo , Wang Ye , Xu Xining , Qiu Jianhua , Nie Hemin
Published: October 2016

The strategy of co-embedding rBMSCs and anti-EGF mAb in alginate microcapsules is a promising modality for the regeneration of hair cell-like cells.
Supramolecular hydrogelation with bile acid derivatives: structures, properties and applications
Authors: Zhang Meng , Strandman Satu , Waldron Karen C. , Zhu X. X.
Published: October 2016

Bile acid derivatives can form molecular hydrogels that may be useful for drug delivery, tissue engineering and nanotemplating.
Thermomechanical liquid crystalline elastomer capillaries with biomimetic peristaltic crawling function
Authors: Liu Xiyang , Kim Seong-Ku , Wang Xiaogong
Published: October 2016

LCE capillaries with biomimetic peristaltic function are fabricated for the first time to mimic the peristaltic crawling locomotion of earthworms.
Clarifying the preferential occupation of Ga3+ ions in YAG:Ce,Ga nanocrystals with various Ga3+-doping concentrations by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: He Xiaowu , Liu Xiaofang , You Congya , Zhang Yongzhe , Li Rongfeng , Yu Ronghai
Published: October 2016

Preferential substitution of Ga3+ ions for octahedral Al3+ ions in YAG:Ce,Ga nanophosphors enhances the luminescence properties of Ce3+ activators.
Photoexcited state properties of carbon dots from thermally induced functionalization of carbon nanoparticles
Authors: Hu Yin , Al Awak Mohamad M. , Yang Fan , Yan Sijia , Xiong Qingwu , Wang Ping , Tang Yongan , Yang Liju , LeCroy Gregory E. , Hou Xiaofang , Bunker Christopher E. , Xu Linxi , Tomlinson Nicholas , Sun Ya-Ping
Published: October 2016

Carbon dots prepared by using a hybrid approach are demonstrated for their photoexcited state properties and bactericidal activities.
Effects of PNDIT2 end groups on aggregation, thin film structure, alignment and electron transport in field-effect transistors
Authors: Matsidik Rukiya , Luzio Alessandro , Hameury Sophie , Komber Hartmut , McNeill Christopher R. , Caironi Mario , Sommer Michael
Published: October 2016

End group control: PNDIT2 with OH and tolyl chain termini are made and comparatively investigated.
Distributed topology processing solution for distributed controls in distribution automation systems
Authors: Zhu Zhengyi , Xu Bingyin , Brunner Christoph , Guise Laurent , Han GuoZheng
Published: October 2016

In the environment of active distribution network, more distributed control devices are deployed to enhance the system reliability and flexibility. The master station of the distribution automation system is required to transfer real‐time topology information to numerous field devices for implementing the distributed operations. To reduce the computational burden of the master station and to make it more autonomous for the distributed agents to utilise the topology information, this study proposes a fully distributed solution to topology processing for the distributed applications. It reduces the grid topology to an undirected graph, divides it into subgraphs and executes a distributed adaptation of graph connectivity algorithm to solve the problem. The algorithm uses the Lagrange multiplier method to optimise the subtask allocation and neighbour‐to‐neighbour communications to compute the graph connectivity. The configuration technique and the usage are presented to illustrate the distributed approach. The algorithm is applied in a fault location, isolation and service restoration scheme to demonstrate its effectiveness. It is compared with the centralised method to highlight the improved performances. Test results show that the algorithm can recognise changes in real‐time topology correctly and has significant advantages.
Power balancing control of a multi‐terminal DC constructed by multiport front‐to‐front DC–DC converters
Authors: Xiang Wang , Lin Weixing , Miao Lu , Wen Jinyu
Published: October 2016

This paper studies the power balancing control of a multi‐terminal high voltage direct current (HVDC) system constructed by a multiport front‐to‐front type DC–DC converter (MF2F). Dynamics of the inner AC circuit of the MF2F is analysed which points out the natural instability of the MF2F under un‐balanced power orders. To solve the instability problem, an inner power balance loop and an external power balance loop are proposed at each port of the MF2F. The inner balance loop ensures power balance inside the MF2F and the external balance loop ensures power balance between a port and its external DC system. Power balance control is also designed for external converters that are under constant power control. Limits of the integrators and the total output of the balance loops are specifically set to automatically disable the balance controllers in normal operation and automatically enable the balance controllers during power imbalance. To isolate the DC faults at external DC systems, self‐blocking modular multilevel converters are used at each port of the MF2F. Efficacy of the proposed power balancing control is verified by extensive simulations under AC faults and DC faults that cause un‐balanced power orders. The proposed controllers can be used as generic controllers for MF2F.
Conditional probability‐based interpretation of dissolved gas analysis for transformer incipient faults
Authors: Taha Ibrahim B.M. , Mansour Diaa‐Eldin A. , Ghoneim Sherif S.M. , Elkalashy Nagy I.
Published: October 2016

In this study, a conditional probability scheme is designed to diagnose transformer incipient faults based on the percentage of five dissolved gases (hydrogen (H2), methane (CH4), ethane (C2 H6), ethylene (C2 H4), and acetylene (C2 H2)) with respect to their summation. Based on the fault features, the point probabilities of each fault type occurrence and non‐occurrence are computed. Then, the conditional probability of certain fault occurrence is estimated to specify the probabilistic indication of each fault type occurrence. Multivariate normal probability density function is considered to point out the conditional probability of the fault occurrence. It is implemented in different scenarios to define the fault type (partial discharge, low energy discharge, high energy discharge, low thermal, medium thermal, and high thermal) where the best scenario is selected. The proposed technique has the merits of simplicity and ease of implementation. It is assessed through the analysis of 403 dissolved gas sample dataset collected from the Egyptian electric utility as well as from credited literatures. The proposed probabilistic technique is evaluated in comparison with other methods in literatures. Also, it is validated against uncertainty in DGA data up to 20%. The results reveal the ability and reliability of the proposed technique for transformer fault diagnosis.
Adaptive partitioning approach to self‐sustained smart grid
Authors: Jia Youwei , Lai Chun Sing , Xu Zhao , Chai Songjian , Wong Kit Po
Published: October 2016

Effective network partitioning becomes an essential step to realise self‐sustained smart grid, which serves as a prerequisite for ‘self‐healing’ enabled decentralised control. Splitting the power network (PN) into areas is the last resort to avoid the spread of disruption and to maintain as many network survivals as possible. This study aims to resolve the issue of multi‐objective PN partitioning by deploying a newly proposed hybrid approach concerning both real power balance and voltage profile. The proposed approach combines the Laplacian spectrum and self‐organising map, which adaptively attains self‐sustained network partitions on different operating conditions. The resultant partitions are characterised by the minimal intra‐area real power imbalance with a healthy voltage profile. The authors experimentally evaluate the partitioning effectiveness and computational efficiency in several case studies including on the New England 39‐bus, IEEE 118‐bus, and Polish 2383‐bus transmission systems.
Risk‐based medium‐term trading strategy for a virtual power plant with first‐order stochastic dominance constraints
Authors: Shabanzadeh Morteza , Sheikh‐El‐Eslami Mohammad‐Kazem , Haghifam Mahmoud‐Reza
Published: October 2016

Distribution systems of the future will definitely encompass numerous distributed energy resources, and thereby, the physical connection and commercial contribution among virtual power plants (VPPs) will be inevitable. Accordingly, this study proposes a methodology to address the trading strategies of a VPP in cooperation with its neighbouring VPPs. This cooperation is modelled based on some available cross‐regional contracts and the problem faced by the VPP is how to determine its bilateral contracting portfolio. To this end, a decision‐making framework for medium‐term self‐scheduling of a VPP with the aim of exercising arbitrage between two different trading floors, i.e. bilateral contracts and the electricity market, is presented. Moreover, an efficient risk management approach based on the concept of first‐order stochastic dominance constraints is used to enable informed decision making under different levels of uncertainty. The resulting model is formulated as a mixed‐integer linear programming problem that can be solved using off‐the‐shelf software packages. The efficiency of the proposed model is analysed through a detailed case study, and finally relevant conclusions are duly drawn.
Methodology for the analysis of voltage unbalance in networks with single‐phase distributed generation
Authors: Liao Huilian , Milanović Jovica V.
Published: October 2016

A sequence networks‐based methodology for investigating voltage unbalance in distribution networks with renewable generation is presented. The sequence networks are derived from the original asymmetrical three‐phase network, and then interconnected to study sequence voltages and unbalance propagation through the network. The approach enables to analyse the influence of line impedance, load demand and network topology on voltage unbalance caused by distributed generation in the network. The critical factors which impact the unbalance severity and the propagation mode are also identified. The approach is validated by comparing calculated sequence voltages with the results obtained by phase voltage‐based methodology.
Frequency support characteristics of grid‐interactive power converters based on the synchronous power controller
Authors: Zhang Weiyi , Remon Daniel , Rodriguez Pedro
Published: October 2016

Grid‐interactive converters with primary frequency control and inertia emulation have emerged and are promising for future renewable generation plants because of the contribution in power system stabilisation. This study gives a synchronous active power control solution for grid‐interactive converters, as a way to emulate synchronous generators for inerita characteristics and load sharing. As design considerations, the virtual angle stability and transient response are both analysed, and the detailed implementation structure is also given without entailing any difficulty in practice. The analytical and experimental validation of frequency support characteristics differentiates the work from other publications on generator emulation control. The 10 kW simulation and experimental frequency sweep tests on a regenerative source test bed present good performance of the proposed control in showing inertia and droop characteristics, as well as the controllable transient response.
Inguinal Hernia Development in Very Low-Birth-Weight Infants: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Isik Dilek , Bas Ahmet , Arslan Zehra , Demirel Nihal , Unal Sezin
Published: October 2016

Introduction The incidence and risk factors for inguinal hernia (IH) is not a thoroughly evaluated issue of preterms. Prematurity is the single most important risk factor. There exists no study in our country which reported the incidence of IH in preterms. The purpose of this study is to investigate the incidence and time of diagnosis of IH in very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants.

Patients and Methods This retrospective case–control study was conducted in Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Women's Health Training and Research Hospital and included discharged VLBW infants with gestational age less than 32 weeks. Control group included gender, birth weight, and gestational age matched VLBW infants without IH.

Results The incidence of IH was 10.1% in VLBW infants (70/693) and 16.1% in extremely low-birth-weight infants (19/174). Male/female ratio was found as 3.4:1. Most IH appeared as bilateral (40.0%). Time of diagnosis was 39 (37–42) weeks of postmenstrual age while 68.6% of infants were diagnosed after discharge. IH development increased by 2.3-folds by having respiratory distress syndrome and by 4.5 folds by achieving full enteral feeds on or after the 10th day.

Conclusion Preterms with respiratory distress syndrome and those reach full enteral feeding on or after the 10th day should be monitored carefully for IH development. Bearing in mind that a significant amount of IH cases exhibit symptoms after discharge, neonatologists should inform the parents of premature infants of the issue and close attention should be paid in postdischarge follow-up examinations.
Beschreibung eines mehrdimensionalen Gesundheitsprogramms für pflegende Angehörige
Authors: Hetzel C. , Baumann R. , Diekmann J. , Froböse I.
Published: October 2016

In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird das Konzept eines präventiv ausgerichteten Programms für pflegende Angehörige beschrieben sowie stresstheoretisch und in Qualitätskriterien eingeordnet. Das Programm kombiniert eine 4-tägige Gruppenintervention außerhalb der häuslichen Umgebung mit individueller professioneller Nachsorge vor Ort (Familiengesundheitspflege für Hochbelastete, häusliche Schulung für ein ausgewähltes Pflegethema). Es werden problem- und emotionsorientierte Strategien eingesetzt. Das Programm ist über die soziale Pflegeversicherung finanzierbar. Das 4-tägige Entlastungsangebot schließt eine Lücke in der Versorgung pflegender Angehöriger.
Characterisation of a BC501A compact neutron spectrometer for fusion research
Authors: Tardini G. , Gagnon-Moisan F. , Zimbal A.
Published: October 2016

The compact neutron spectrometer used at the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak is characterised to obtain its response matrix. This paper describes the characterisation procedure and the derived response matrix, based on a campaign at the PTB ion accelerator facility (PIAF) and on the subsequent time-of-flight (TOF) analysis of neutrons from a field with a broad energy distribution. The response of mono-energetic neutrons generated at the PIAF is used as reference for the TOF analysis. The detector’s response functions for spectrum deconvolution are obtained by Gaussian broadening of the simulated responses to fit the experimental ones, using a maximum-entropy ansatz. In this way, the response functions are smooth enough to ensure a reliable unfolding of pulse height spectra into neutron emission spectra, which provide information on the fast ion velocity distribution in neutral beam heated tokamak plasmas.
Magnetic, electronic, and optical properties of double perovskite Bi2FeMnO6
Authors: Ahmed Towfiq , Chen Aiping , Yarotski Dmitry A. , Trugman Stuart A. , Jia Quanxi , Zhu Jian-Xin
Published: October 2016

Double perovskite Bi2FeMnO6 is a potential candidate for the single-phase multiferroic system. In this work, we study the magnetic, electronic, and optical properties in BFMO by performing the density functional theory calculations and experimental measurements of magnetic moment. We also demonstrate the strain dependence of magnetization. More importantly, our calculations of electronic and optical properties reveal that the onsite local correlation on Mn and Fe sites is critical to the gap opening in BFMO, which is a prerequisite condition for the ferroelectric ordering. Finally, we calculate the x-ray magnetic circular dichroism spectra of Fe and Mn ions (L2 and L3 edges) in BFMO.
The GEMpix detector as new soft X-rays diagnostic tool for laser produced plasmas
Authors: Claps G. , Pacella D. , Murtas F. , Jakubowska K. , Boutoux G. , Burgy F. , Ducret J. E. , Batani D.
Published: October 2016

Laser produced plasmas lend to several interesting applications. The study of X-ray emission from this kind of plasmas is important not only to characterize plasmas itself but also to study the application of these particular plasmas as intense X-ray sources. In particular several emission configurations can be obtained using different kinds of targets and tuning the characteristics of the laser pulse delivered to the target. Typically, laser pulse duration ranges between a few tens of femtoseconds and tens of nanoseconds, with energies from few mJ to tens of kJ. X-ray photon emissions last for times comparable to the laser pulses and during this time a great number of photons can be emitted. The following paper presents a measure of the soft-X-ray emission on the ECLIPSE laser facility realized with a new triple-GEM gas detector (GEMpix). It is a hybrid gas detector with a C-MOS front-end electronics based on Medipix chips. In the present work, different targets have been used in order to test X-rays of different energies. In this paper, in particular, we present results obtained for copper and iron targets. GEMpix is able to realize a 2D imaging of the X-ray emission from plasma with a signal proportional to the energy released in the gas of the detector active volume. Then through a preliminary single photon equalization realized at the NIXT lab (ENEA), also the number of photons reaching the area of the detector has been estimated.
Contact geometric descriptions of vector fields on dually flat spaces and their applications in electric circuit models and nonequilibrium statistical mechanics
Authors: Goto Shin-itiro
Published: October 2016

Contact geometry has been applied to various mathematical sciences, and it has been proposed that a contact manifold and a strictly convex function induce a dually flat space that is used in information geometry. Here, such a dually flat space is related to a Legendre submanifold in a contact manifold. In this paper, contact geometric descriptions of vector fields on dually flat spaces are proposed on the basis of the theory of contact Hamiltonian vector fields. Based on these descriptions, two ways of lifting vector fields on Legendre submanifolds to contact manifolds are given. For some classes of these lifted vector fields, invariant measures in contact manifolds and stability analysis around Legendre submanifolds are explicitly given. Throughout this paper, Legendre duality is explicitly stated. In addition, to show how to apply these general methodologies to applied mathematical disciplines, electric circuit models and some examples taken from nonequilibrium statistical mechanics are analyzed.
Study on contribution of the asymmetric stress to the birefringence induced by an ultrashort single laser pulse inside fused silica glass
Authors: Najafi Somayeh , Massudi Reza , Ajami Aliasghar , Nathala Chandra S. R. , Husinsky Wolfgang , Arabanian Atoosa Sadat
Published: October 2016

Stress induced birefringence due to asymmetry in axial and radial directions that is generated because of the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with a transparent material is numerically studied. The coupled equations of nonlinear Schrodinger and plasma density evolution are solved to calculate the deposited energy density and initial temperature profile. Fourier's heat equation and the equations related to the thermo-elasto plastic model are solved to calculate the temperature evolution and distribution of induced displacement inside the material, respectively. Finally, by numerically calculating the distribution of the induced refractive index changes experienced by both axially and radially probe beams, induced stress birefringence is calculated for different characteristics of writing pulses. Furthermore, the induced stress birefringence is experimentally realized, and the effect of the energy of the writing pulse is investigated. To know how the induced refractive index changes and birefringence distributions depend on parameters of the writing pulse is crucial to obtain high performance guiding structures and polarization-sensitive as well as polarization-independent components.
Development of a spectroscopic technique for simultaneous magnetic field, electron density, and temperature measurements in ICF-relevant plasmas
Authors: Dutra E. C. , Koch J. A. , Presura R. , Angermeier W. A. , Darling T. , Haque S. , Mancini R. C. , Covington A. M.
Published: October 2016

Spectroscopic techniques in the visible range are often used in plasma experiments to measure B-field induced Zeeman splitting, electron densities via Stark broadening, and temperatures from Doppler broadening. However, when electron densities and temperatures are sufficiently high, the broadening of the Stark and Doppler components can dominate the emission spectra and obscure the Zeeman component. In this research, we are developing a time-resolved multi-axial technique for measuring the Zeeman, Stark, and Doppler broadened line emission of dense magnetized plasmas for Z-pinch and Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) accelerators. The line emission is used to calculate the electron densities, temperatures, and B-fields. In parallel, we are developing a line-shape modeling code that incorporates the broadening effects due to Stark, Doppler, and Zeeman effects for dense magnetized plasma. This manuscript presents the details of the experimental setup and line shape code, along with the results obtained from an Al iii doublet at the University of Nevada, Reno at Nevada Terawatt Facility. Future tests are planned to further evaluate the technique and modeling on other material wire array, gas puff, and DPF platforms.
Highly-stable and low-state-density Al2O3/GaN interfaces using epitaxial n-GaN layers grown on free-standing GaN substrates
Authors: Kaneki Shota , Ohira Joji , Toiya Shota , Yatabe Zenji , Asubar Joel T. , Hashizume Tamotsu
Published: October 2016

Interface characterization was carried out on Al2O3/GaN structures using epitaxial n-GaN layers grown on free-standing GaN substrates with relatively low dislocation density (<3 × 106 cm−2). The Al2O3 layer was prepared by atomic layer deposition. The as-deposited metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) sample showed a significant frequency dispersion and a bump-like feature in capacitance-voltage (C–V) curves at reverse bias, showing high-density interface states in the range of 1012 cm−1 eV−1. On the other hand, excellent C–V characteristics with negligible frequency dispersion were observed from the MOS sample after annealing under a reverse bias at 300 °C in air for 3 h. The reverse-bias-annealed sample showed state densities less than 1 × 1011 cm−1 eV−1 and small shifts of flat-band voltage. In addition, the C–V curve measured at 200 °C remained essentially similar compared with the room-temperature C–V curves. These results indicate that the present process realizes a stable Al2O3/GaN interface with low interface state densities.
The enhanced low resistance contacts and boosted mobility in two-dimensional p-type WSe2 transistors through Ar+ ion-beam generated surface defects
Authors: Kim Dahye , Du Hyewon , Kim Taekwang , Shin Somyeong , Kim Seonyeong , Song Minho , Lee ChangWon , Lee Jaeung , Cheong Hyeonsik , Seo David H. , Seo Sunae
Published: October 2016

We intentionally generated surface defects in WSe2 using a low energy argon (Ar+) ion-beam. We were unable to detect any changes in lattice structure through Raman spectroscopy as expected through simulation. Meanwhile, atomic force microscopy showed roughened surfaces with a high density of large protruding spots. Defect-activated Photoluminescence (PL) revealed a binding energy reduction of the W 4f core level indicating significant amounts of defect generation within the bandgap of WSe2 even at the lowest studied 300 eV ion-beam energy. The intensity ratio increase of direct PL peak demonstrated the decoupling of surface layers, which behave like consecutive defective monolayers. Electrical measurements after post-irradiation showed p-type ohmic contacts regardless of the ion-beam energy. The resulting ohmic contact contributed to an increased on/off current ratio, mobility enhancement of around 350 cm2V-1s-1 from a few cm2V-1s-1 in pristine devices and electron conduction suppression. Further increased ion-beam energy over 700 eV resulted in a high shift of threshold voltage and diminished subthreshold slope due to increased surface roughness and boosted interface scattering. The origin of the ohmic contact behavior in p-type WSe2 is expected to be from chalcogen vacancy defects of a certain size which pins the Fermi level near the valence band minimum. An optimized ion-beam irradiation process could provide solutions for fabricating ohmic contacts to transition metal dichalcogenides.
Rural health professionals‘ experiences in implementing advance care planning: a focus group study
Authors: Fletcher Sophie , Sinclair Craig , Rhee Joel , Goh Desiree , Auret Kirsten
Published: October 2016

Advance care planning (ACP) is described as an ongoing discussion between a patient, their family and healthcare professionals (HCPs) to understand a patient’s wishes for future health care. Legislation supporting ACP in Western Australia is relatively new and HCPs are still learning about the process and implementation. This study aimed to provide a rich description of rural health professionals’ perceptions and experiences with ACP within the context of their professional role and to identify systemic issues and training needs. Ten focus groups were conducted throughout 2014 with a total of 55 rural participants including general practitioners (n=15), general practice registrars (n=6), practice nurses (n=18), community nurses (n=4) and hospital nurses (n=12) in the south-western regions of Western Australia. Thematic analysis has identified the following themes regarding ACP: benefits to patients and families; professional roles in ACP; barriers and enablers; and systems for communicating ACP. HCPs have self-determined their roles in the ACP process, which currently leaves some components of the process unaccounted for, suggesting that collaboration between HCPs working together in a rural health setting and a standardised system for distributing these documents may assist with the implementation of ACP.
Reproductive dysfunction after mercury exposure at low levels: evidence for a role of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) 1 and GPx4 in male rats
Authors: Martinez Caroline S. , Peçanha Franck M. , Brum Daniela S. , Santos Francielli W. , Franco Jeferson L. , Zemolin Ana Paula P. , Anselmo-Franci Janete A. , Junior Fernando B. , Alonso María J. , Salaices Mercedes , Vassallo Dalton V. , Leivas Fábio G. , Wiggers Giulia A.
Published: October 2016

Mercury is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant and mercury contamination and toxicity are serious hazards to human health. Some studies have shown that mercury impairs male reproductive function, but less is known about its effects following exposure at low doses and the possible mechanisms underlying its toxicity. Herein we show that exposure of rats to mercury chloride for 30 days (first dose 4.6 µg kg–1, subsequent doses 0.07 µg kg–1 day–1) resulted in mean (± s.e.m.) blood mercury concentrations of 6.8 ± 0.3 ng mL–1, similar to that found in human blood after occupational exposure or released from removal of amalgam fillings. Even at these low concentrations, mercury was deposited in reproductive organs (testis, epididymis and prostate), impaired sperm membrane integrity, reduced the number of mature spermatozoa and, in the testes, promoted disorganisation, empty spaces and loss of germinal epithelium. Mercury increased levels of reactive oxygen species and the expression of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) 1 and GPx4. These results suggest that the toxic effects of mercury on the male reproductive system are due to its accumulation in reproductive organs and that the glutathione system is its potential target. The data also suggest, for the first time, a possible role of the selenoproteins GPx1 and GPx4 in the reproductive toxicity of mercury chloride.
Community deworming alleviates geohelminth-induced immune hyporesponsiveness
Authors: Wammes Linda J. , Hamid Firdaus , Wiria Aprilianto Eddy , May Linda , Kaisar Maria M. M. , Prasetyani-Gieseler Margaretta A. , Djuardi Yenny , Wibowo Heri , Kruize Yvonne C. M. , Verweij Jaco J. , de Jong Sanne E. , Tsonaka Roula , Houwing-Duistermaat Jeanine J. , Sartono Erliyani , Luty Adrian J. F. , Supali Taniawati , Yazdanbakhsh Maria
Published: October 2016

Significance

Chronic helminth infections are accompanied by profound immune regulation. In humans, helminth-induced immune reactivity has not been thoroughly investigated in trial settings. We assessed the effect of anthelmintic treatment on immune responses in a whole community in a placebo-controlled randomized controlled trial. We show increased immune responses to helminth-specific as well as unrelated antigens, in parallel with decreased expression of cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), which is a molecule involved in putting the brake on immune activation. Deworming seems to lead to decreased immunoregulation and increased immune responsiveness. These findings are of importance regarding the suboptimal vaccine responses in helminth-endemic areas and also in anticipating the future rise in inflammatory diseases when helminth infections are increasingly controlled.
Molecular lock regulates binding of glycine to a primitive NMDA receptor
Authors: Yu Alvin , Alberstein Robert , Thomas Alecia , Zimmet Austin , Grey Richard , Mayer Mark L. , Lau Albert Y.
Published: October 2016

Significance

Glycine-activated ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) encoded in ctenophore genomes are evolutionary precursors to NMDA receptors, which play important roles in synaptic plasticity. Ctenophore iGluRs feature a distinct interdomain salt bridge in the ligand-binding domain, a molecular lock, that thus far has not been found in iGluRs of other organisms. We use a combination of crystallographic, biochemical, electrophysiological, and computational approaches to elucidate the role of this molecular lock in a ctenophore iGluR. We find that perturbations to the lock can tune receptor kinetics and thermodynamics over very broad ranges. We also find that the strategic location of the lock may be the basis for the ligand-binding domain's extraordinarily high affinity for glycine.
Civil conflict sensitivity to growing-season drought
Authors: von Uexkull Nina , Croicu Mihai , Fjelde Hanne , Buhaug Halvard
Published: October 2016

Significance

Understanding the conflict potential of drought is critical for dealing effectively with the societal implications of climate change. Using new georeferenced ethnicity and conflict data for Asia and Africa since 1989, we present an actor-oriented analysis of growing-season drought and conflict involvement among ethnic groups. Results from naive models common in previous research suggest that drought generally has little impact. However, context-sensitive models accounting for the groups’ level of vulnerability reveal that drought can contribute to sustaining conflict, especially for agriculturally dependent groups and politically excluded groups in very poor countries. These results suggest a reciprocal nature–society interaction in which violent conflict and environmental shock constitute a vicious circle, each phenomenon increasing the group’s vulnerability to the other.
The CC domain structure from the wheat stem rust resistance protein Sr33 challenges paradigms for dimerization in plant NLR proteins
Authors: Casey Lachlan W. , Lavrencic Peter , Bentham Adam R. , Cesari Stella , Ericsson Daniel J. , Croll Tristan , Turk Dušan , Anderson Peter A. , Mark Alan E. , Dodds Peter N. , Mobli Mehdi , Kobe Bostjan , Williams Simon J.
Published: October 2016

Significance

Plants and animals use intracellular immunity receptors, known as nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors (NLRs), to defend themselves against invading microbes. In this study, we report the solution structure of the N-terminal coiled-coil (CC) domain from the wheat stem rust resistance protein Sr33. Remarkably, this structure differs substantially from the published crystal structure of the equivalent region from the orthologous barley powdery mildew resistance protein MLA10. Using a structural, biophysical, and functional approach, we compare the Sr33 CC domain with other structurally defined NLR CC domains. Collectively, this work redefines our current understanding of the structure and function of plant NLR CC domains, which has significant implications for future studies into this important class of defense receptors.
In-phase oscillation of global regulons is orchestrated by a pole-specific organizer
Authors: Janakiraman Balaganesh , Mignolet Johann , Narayanan Sharath , Viollier Patrick H. , Radhakrishnan Sunish Kumar
Published: October 2016

Significance

Although several studies have pointed towards the importance of the sigma factor, σ
54
, in regulating virulence, biofilm formation, and cell cycle control in α-proteobacteria, knowledge on its activators and their regulation is incomplete. In this study, we demonstrate that the activity of a highly conserved σ
54
-activator, TacA, is spatiotemporally coordinated with that of the master cell cycle transcriptional regulator A (CtrA) in
Caulobacter crescentus
. Remarkably, we find that the polar organizer/morphogen, SpmX, governs the in-phase oscillation of CtrA, via the cell fate-determining kinase DivJ, and TacA via a newly identified and conserved determinant, SpmY, which is recruited to the poles through SpmX. Most importantly, we show that the DUF2336 domain of SpmY is functionally conserved among the α-proteobacteria, revealing a possibly conserved mechanism to regulate TacA.
RNA polymerase II senses obstruction in the DNA minor groove via a conserved sensor motif
Authors: Xu Liang , Wang Wei , Gotte Deanna , Yang Fei , Hare Alissa A. , Welch Timothy R. , Li Benjamin C. , Shin Ji Hyun , Chong Jenny , Strathern Jeffrey N. , Dervan Peter B. , Wang Dong
Published: October 2016

Significance

Transcription addiction is a hallmark of cancer and a potential therapeutic target. RNA polymerase II (pol II) is responsible for synthesizing precursor mRNA in all eukaryotic cells and can be blocked by obstacles, such as DNA lesions and nucleosomes on the DNA template. In this study, we demonstrate that sequence-specific minor groove binding pyrrole-imidazole polyamides can sterically block an elongating polymerase at the targeted binding site. We find this blockage is persistent and cannot be rescued by transcription factor IIS. We further show pyrrole-imidazole polyamides are detected in the minor groove via two conserved residues in the Switch 1 region of pol II. Collectively, these results provide mechanistic insights on how a noncovalent minor groove binder can obstruct pol II elongation.
Twenty-four–nucleotide siRNAs produce heritable trans-chromosomal methylation in F1
Arabidopsis
hybrids
Authors: Greaves Ian K. , Eichten Steven R. , Groszmann Michael , Wang Aihua , Ying Hua , Peacock W. James , Dennis Elizabeth S.
Published: October 2016

Significance

We show that the changes in DNA methylation that occur in F1 hybrids of
Arabidopsis
are mostly dependent on the presence of 24-nt siRNAs at the locus. The methylation change at a locus results in the two alleles becoming similar to each other in methylation pattern. The methylation changes occur through the processes of trans-chromosomal methylation and trans-chromosomal demethylation. These altered methylation states can be inherited in the F2 generation and can be associated with changes in levels of gene activity, which may contribute to the phenotypic heterogeneity in the F2.
Dynamic translation regulation in
Caulobacter
cell cycle control
Authors: Schrader Jared M. , Li Gene-Wei , Childers W. Seth , Perez Adam M. , Weissman Jonathan S. , Shapiro Lucy , McAdams Harley H.
Published: October 2016

Significance

The
Caulobacter
cell cycle is controlled by a genetic circuit that dynamically regulates transcription of nearly 20% of the genome; however, the role of translational control of cell cycle progression is unexplored. To understand the contribution of translational regulation, we measured both mRNA and translation levels at multiple stages of the cell cycle. We found that cell cycle-dependent translational regulation is important for hundreds of genes and also that the positioning of regulatory proteins to a specific cell pole is coordinated by the timing of their synthesis. The cell cycle-regulatory pathway that controls translation rates is linked to the regulatory circuit that controls transcription rates of cell cycle-regulated genes.
Prolactin alters blood pressure by modulating the activity of endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Chang Albert S. , Grant Ruriko , Tomita Hirofumi , Kim Hyung-Suk , Smithies Oliver , Kakoki Masao
Published: October 2016

Significance

Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that controls changes in the breast to enable milk production after the baby is born. In some mothers with pregnancy-related high blood pressure (BP), the concentration of prolactin in the blood is higher than normal, but whether this causes the high BP or is a consequence of it is uncertain. To answer this question, we have generated experimental mice that produce prolactin in the liver when we feed them a substance, indole-3-carbinol (IC3), that is found in broccoli. When fed normal chow, the mice are well, but, when fed IC3, they develop high BP and heart problems. This suggests that pregnant women with abnormally high prolactin levels may need special attention.
Transient HIV-1 Gag–protease interactions revealed by paramagnetic NMR suggest origins of compensatory drug resistance mutations
Authors: Deshmukh Lalit , Louis John M. , Ghirlando Rodolfo , Clore G. Marius
Published: October 2016

Significance

Hydrolysis of group-specific antigen (Gag) polyprotein by protease is essential for the formation of infectious HIV-1 virions. In response to treatment with protease inhibitors, drug resistance mutations coevolve in protease and Gag, a significant number of which (known as compensatory mutations) lie outside the active site of protease and the Gag cleavage sites. We show, using paramagnetic NMR spectroscopy, that transient, sparsely populated encounter complexes are predominantly formed between the globular domains of Gag and protease at sites that correlate with the location of secondary drug resistance mutations. These results provide a structural basis for the origins of secondary mutations and suggest that transient encounter complexes play a significant role in guiding protease to the Gag cleavage sites.