bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial ability and hemocompatibility of graphene functionalized germanium
Authors: Geng Hao , Dai Jiayun , Li Jinhua , Di Zengfeng , Liu Xuanyong
Published: November 2016

Germanium (Ge), as an elemental semiconductor material, has been an attractive candidate for manufacturing semiconductor microelectronic device. In the present investigation, to improve the biocompatibility of Ge-based device, graphene film is directly deposited on the Ge surface with different coverage area by controlling the growth time. Compared to bare Ge, the presence of graphene film entitles Ge with satisfactory antibacterial ability against Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus), and acceptable antibacterial ability against Escherichia coli (E. coli). Meanwhile, antibacterial efficiency closely correlates with coverage area of graphene film, and larger graphene coverage always leads to better antibacterial performance. The underlying mechanism is thought to be the integrative action of phospholipids disturbance and electron extraction at the interface between graphene and biomembrane. Meanwhile, the electron extraction action would further lead to the activation of platelet. This study might provide some new insights into the relationship between antibacterial ability and hemocompatibility based on graphene functionalized biomedical device.
Non-label immune cell state prediction using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ichimura Taro , Chiu Liang-da , Fujita Katsumasa , Machiyama Hiroaki , Yamaguchi Tomoyuki , Watanabe Tomonobu M. , Fujita Hideaki
Published: November 2016

The acquired immune system, mainly composed of T and B lymphocytes, plays a key role in protecting the host from infection. It is important and technically challenging to identify cell types and their activation status in living and intact immune cells, without staining or killing the cells. Using Raman spectroscopy, we succeeded in discriminating between living T cells and B cells, and visualized the activation status of living T cells without labeling. Although the Raman spectra of T cells and B cells were similar, they could be distinguished by discriminant analysis of the principal components. Raman spectra of activated T cells with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies largely differed compared to that of naïve T cells, enabling the prediction of T cell activation status at a single cell level. Our analysis revealed that the spectra of individual T cells gradually change from the pattern of naïve T cells to that of activated T cells during the first 24 h of activation, indicating that changes in Raman spectra reflect slow changes rather than rapid changes in cell state during activation. Our results indicate that the Raman spectrum enables the detection of dynamic changes in individual cell state scattered in a heterogeneous population.
Handspinning Enabled Highly Concentrated Carbon Nanotubes with Controlled Orientation in Nanofibers
Authors: Lee Hoik , Watanabe Kei , Kim Myungwoong , Gopiraman Mayakrishnan , Song Kyung-Hun , Lee Jung Soon , Kim Ick Soo
Published: November 2016

The novel method, handspinning (HS), was invented by mimicking commonly observed methods in our daily lives. The use of HS allows us to fabricate carbon nanotube-reinforced nanofibers (CNT-reinforced nanofibers) by addressing three significant challenges: (i) the difficulty of forming nanofibers at high concentrations of CNTs, (ii) aggregation of the CNTs, and (iii) control of the orientation of the CNTs. The handspun nanofibers showed better physical properties than fibers fabricated by conventional methods, such as electrospinning. Handspun nanofibers retain a larger amount of CNTs than electrospun nanofibers, and the CNTs are easily aligned uniaxially. We attributed these improvements provided by the HS process to simple mechanical stretching force, which allows for orienting the nanofillers along with the force direction without agglomeration, leading to increased contact area between the CNTs and the polymer matrix, thereby providing enhanced interactions. HS is a simple and straightforward method as it does not require an electric field, and, hence, any kinds of polymers and solvents can be applicable. Furthermore, it is feasible to retain a large amount of various nanofillers in the fibers to enhance their physical and chemical properties. Therefore, HS provides an effective pathway to create new types of reinforced nanofibers with outstanding properties.
Overexpression of SerpinE2/protease nexin-1 Contribute to Pathological Cardiac Fibrosis via increasing Collagen Deposition
Authors: Li Xuelian , Zhao Dandan , Guo Zhenfeng , Li Tianshi , Qili Muge , Xu Bozhi , Qian Ming , Liang Haihai , E Xiaoqiang , Chege Gitau Samuel , Wang Lu , Huangfu Longtao , Wu Qiuxia , Xu Chaoqian , Shan Hongli
Published: November 2016

Although increases in cardiovascular load (pressure overload) are known to elicit ventricular remodeling including cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis, the molecular mechanisms of pressure overload or AngII -induced cardiac interstitial fibrosis remain elusive. In this study, serpinE2/protease nexin-1 was over-expressed in a cardiac fibrosis model induced by pressure-overloaded via transverse aortic constriction (TAC) in mouse. Knockdown of serpinE2 attenuates cardiac fibrosis in a mouse model of TAC. At meantime, the results showed that serpinE2 significantly were increased with collagen accumulations induced by AngII or TGF-β stimulation in vitro. Intriguingly, extracellular collagen in myocardial fibroblast was reduced by knockdown of serpinE2 compared with the control in vitro. In stark contrast, the addition of exogenous PN-1 up-regulated the content of collagen in myocardial fibroblast. The MEK1/2- ERK1/2 signaling probably promoted the expression of serpinE2 via transcription factors Elk1 in myocardial fibroblast. In conclusion, stress-induced the ERK1/2 signaling pathway activation up-regulated serpinE2 expression, consequently led accumulation of collagen protein, and contributed to cardiac fibrosis.
Stimulus-induced Epileptic Spike-Wave Discharges in Thalamocortical Model with Disinhibition
Authors: Fan Denggui , Liu Suyu , Wang Qingyun
Published: November 2016

Epileptic absence seizure characterized by the typical 2–4 Hz spike-wave discharges (SWD) are known to arise due to the physiologically abnormal interactions within the thalamocortical network. By introducing a second inhibitory neuronal population in the cortical system, here we propose a modified thalamocortical field model to mathematically describe the occurrences and transitions of SWD under the mutual functions between cortex and thalamus, as well as the disinhibitory modulations of SWD mediated by the two different inhibitory interneuronal populations. We first show that stimulation can induce the recurrent seizures of SWD in the modified model. Also, we demonstrate the existence of various types of firing states including the SWD. Moreover, we can identify the bistable parametric regions where the SWD can be both induced and terminated by stimulation perturbations applied in the background resting state. Interestingly, in the absence of stimulation disinhibitory functions between the two different interneuronal populations can also both initiate and abate the SWD, which suggests that the mechanism of disinhibition is comparable to the effect of stimulation in initiating and terminating the epileptic SWD. Hopefully, the obtained results can provide theoretical evidences in exploring dynamical mechanism of epileptic seizures.
Identification of an infectious bronchitis coronavirus strain exhibiting a classical genotype but altered antigenicity, pathogenicity, and innate immunity profile
Authors: Lin Shu-Yi , Li Yao-Tsun , Chen You-Ting , Chen Ting-Chih , Hu Che-Ming J. , Chen Hui-Wen
Published: November 2016

Avian coronavirus infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) poses economic threat to the poultry industry worldwide. Pathogenic IBV 3575/08 was isolated from broilers vaccinated with the attenuated viral vaccine derived from a Taiwan strain 2575/98. In this study, extensive investigations were conducted on the genome sequences, antigenicity, pathogenicity, and host immune responses of several IBV strains in specific-pathogen-free chickens. Sequence analyses revealed that 3575/08 and 2575/98 shared high homology in their structural genes, but not in non-structural accessory proteins such as 3a, 3b and 5b. Despite a high degree of homology in their spike protein genes, cross neutralization test showed low cross protection between 3575/08 and 2575/98, suggesting distinct antigenicity for the two strains. Animal challenge experiments exhibited strong respiratory and renal pathogenicity for 3575/08. In addition, early and prolonged viral shedding and rapid viral dissemination were observed. Immune gene expression profiling by PCR array showed chickens infected with 3575/08 had delayed expression of a subset of early innate immune genes, whereas chickens infected with the wild-type or attenuated-type 2575/08 revealed quick gene induction and efficient virus control. In summary, this study reveals a new IBV strain, which harbors a known local genotype but displays remarkably altered antigenicity, pathogenicity and host defenses.
Highly Bendable In-Ga-ZnO Thin Film Transistors by Using a Thermally Stable Organic Dielectric Layer
Authors: Kumaresan Yogeenth , Pak Yusin , Lim Namsoo , kim Yonghun , Park Min-Ji , Yoon Sung-Min , Youn Hyoc-Min , Lee Heon , Lee Byoung Hun , Jung Gun Young
Published: November 2016

Flexible In-Ga-ZnO (IGZO) thin film transistor (TFT) on a polyimide substrate is produced by employing a thermally stable SA7 organic material as the multi-functional barrier and dielectric layers. The IGZO channel layer was sputtered at Ar:O2 gas flow rate of 100:1 sccm and the fabricated TFT exhibited excellent transistor performances with a mobility of 15.67 cm2/Vs, a threshold voltage of 6.4 V and an on/off current ratio of 4.5 × 105. Further, high mechanical stability was achieved by the use of organic/inorganic stacking of dielectric and channel layers. Thus, the IGZO transistor endured unprecedented bending strain up to 3.33% at a bending radius of 1.5 mm with no significant degradation in transistor performances along with a superior reliability up to 1000 cycles.
Generation of a sub-diffraction hollow ring by shaping an azimuthally polarized wave
Authors: Chen Gang , Wu Zhi-xiang , Yu An-ping , Zhang Zhi-hai , Wen Zhong-quan , Zhang Kun , Dai Lu-ru , Jiang Sen-lin , Li Yu-yan , Chen Li , Wang Chang-tao , Luo Xian-gang
Published: November 2016

The generation of a sub-diffraction optical hollow ring is of great interest in various applications, such as optical microscopy, optical tweezers, and nanolithography. Azimuthally polarized light is a good candidate for creating an optical hollow ring structure. Various of methods have been proposed theoretically for generation of sub-wavelength hollow ring by focusing azimuthally polarized light, but without experimental demonstrations, especially for sub-diffraction focusing. Super-oscillation is a promising approach for shaping sub-diffraction optical focusing. In this paper, a planar sub-diffraction diffractive lens is proposed, which has an ultra-long focal length of 600 λ and small numerical aperture of 0.64. A sub-diffraction hollow ring is experimentally created by shaping an azimuthally polarized wave. The full-width-at-half-maximum of the hollow ring is 0.61 λ, which is smaller than the lens diffraction limit 0.78 λ, and the observed largest sidelobe intensity is only 10% of the peak intensity.
Harnessing hyperthermostable lactonase from Sulfolobus solfataricus for biotechnological applications
Authors: Rémy Benjamin , Plener Laure , Poirier Laetitia , Elias Mikael , Daudé David , Chabrière Eric
Published: November 2016

Extremozymes have gained considerable interest as they could meet industrial requirements. Among these, SsoPox is a hyperthermostable enzyme isolated from the archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus. This enzyme is a lactonase catalyzing the hydrolysis of acyl-homoserine lactones; these molecules are involved in Gram-negative bacterial communication referred to as quorum sensing. SsoPox exhibits promiscuous phosphotriesterase activity for the degradation of organophosphorous chemicals including insecticides and chemical warfare agents. Owing to its bi-functional catalytic abilities as well as its intrinsic stability, SsoPox is appealing for many applications, having potential uses in the agriculture, defense, food and health industries. Here we investigate the biotechnological properties of the mutant SsoPox-W263I, a variant with increased lactonase and phosphotriesterase activities. We tested enzyme resistance against diverse process-like and operating conditions such as heat resistance, contact with organic solvents, sterilization, storage and immobilization. Bacterial secreted materials from both Gram-negative and positive bacteria were harmless on SsoPox-W263I activity and could reactivate heat-inactivated enzyme. SsoPox showed resistance to harsh conditions demonstrating that it is an extremely attractive enzyme for many applications. Finally, the potential of SsoPox-W263I to be active at subzero temperature is highlighted and discussed in regards to the common idea that hyperthermophile enzymes are nearly inactive at low temperatures.
Surface Modification of Halloysite
Authors: Huang Jing , Tang Zhenghai , Guo Baochun
Published: November 2016

As naturally occurring nanotubular clay, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) have found many important applications, such as reinforcement for polymers, sustained release of functional substances, immobilization of functional substances for catalysis or pollutant removal, etc. These applications are largely determined by the surface modification of HNTs, which is one of the key factors that govern the composite structure and functions. In this chapter, the modification chemistry and the state-of-the-art modification techniques for HNTs are summarized in detail. Broadly, these methods are categorized into covalent methods and non-covalent methods. Except for the commonly known silanization and wrapping via hydrogen bonding/electrostatic interaction, several interesting modifications, including controlled enlargement of the lumen and selective inside/outside modification of the lumen, are highlighted.
Halloysite Based Smart Hybrid Nanomaterials for the Solubilization of Hydrophobic Compounds in Aqueous Media
Authors: Cavallaro G. , Lazzara G. , Miloto S.
Published: November 2016

In this work, we describe the preparation and the characterization of hybrids based on surfactant–halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). The HNTs inner cavity selective surface modification generates inorganic micelles with a hydrophobic pocket and a cylindrical symmetry. The colloidal stability of surfactant–HNTs materials in water is reviewed showing the strategy and the mechanism to obtain stable dispersions in the low and the high concentration regime. The ability of these non-foaming surfactant to entrapping oils and gas is highlighted. Finally, the surfactant–HNTs hybrids possess biocompatibility features, are easy to separate and their preparation implies a low cost; they can be considered inorganic micelles suitable for industrial applications over a large scale.
Application of Clay Materials as Nanocontainers for Self-Healing Coatings
Authors: Shchukin Dmitry G. , Shchukina Elena
Published: November 2016

This chapter surveys the application of clay materials (in particular halloysites) in self-healing coatings. The release mechanisms of the encapsulated inhibitors are discussed and different shell/stopper compositions are demonstrated for smart response to the local environmental changes in the corroded/damaged area. In general, clay minerals have a loading capacity lower than common polymer capsules, and they do not have large versatility in controlling the release of corrosion inhibitors. However, they are mechanically and thermally robust, cheap and available in thousands of tons.
Flame Retardant Polymer–Halloysite Nanocomposites
Authors: Tang Zhenghai , Guo Baochun
Published: November 2016

The flame retardancy of polymers is an important issue in their practical applications. The use of various nanofillers as flame retardants in polymer matrices have drawn considerable attention. In this chapter, the flame retardancy of naturally occurring halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) towards polymer is first demonstrated and the underlying role of HNTs during combustion is highlighted. Then the factors related to the dispersion of HNTs, modification of HNTs, and structure of the nanocomposites that affect the flame retardancy properties of the polymer–HNTs nanocomposites are discussed. After that, the synergistic effects of the combination of HNTs with other flame retardant compounds (intumescent flame retardant system and other nanofillers) in improving the fire retardancy properties of the nanocomposites are reviewed. Finally, the flame retardancy of other clays (montmorillonite, vermiculite, sepiolite, kaolinite) in polymers and the comparison between HNTs and other clays are briefly illustrated.
Polymer–Halloysite Composite Membranes for Ultrafiltration and Proton Exchange Applications
Authors: Zhang Yatao , Wang Jingtao , Zhu Junyong , Liu Yahua , Liu Jindun
Published: November 2016

Significant progress has been achieved in recent years on the development of halloysite nanotubes with the purpose of improving the membrane performance. In this chapter, polymer–halloysite composite membranes for ultrafiltration and proton exchange applications were highlighted. Additionally, the challenges in the fabrication of halloysite nanotubes based on the membranes and future prospects are presented as well.
Halloysite–Dopamine Hybrid Nanotubes to Immobilize Biomacromolecules
Authors: Li Yifan , Zhao Yafei , Zhang Bing , Chen Rongfeng
Published: November 2016

Biomacromolecules, such as protein, DNA, and polysaccharide, have been widely employed for bio-catalyzed synthesis/decomposition, anti-cancer therapy, bio-sensors, biofuel cells, and so on. Immobilizing biomacromolecules onto solid supports is often necessary to improve the operational stability, dispersity and recyclability. Halloysite nanotube has been identified as a promising support for biomacromolecule immobilization, while it requires a facile and mild method to firmly attach biomacromolecules onto halloysites. In this chapter, the development and employment of halloysite−dopamine hybrid nanotubes for biomacromolecule immobilization are presented. Firstly, the state-of-the-art of halloysite nanotubes-based biomacromolecule immobilization is briefly reviewed, especially the existing problems. The second part mentions a versatile technique platform called “dopamine chemistry”, which is inspired by the marine mussel’s adhesion protein. Next, some examples in which the technique platform was employed to solve the problems of pristine halloysite nanotubes are encompassed, including the potential applications of halloysite−dopamine hybrid nanotubes for immobilizing other biomacromolecules. Finally, a summary of this chapter as well as the future perspectives regarding halloysite−dopamine hybrid nanotubes are included.
Halloysite Clay Nanotubes for Long Acting Controlled Release of Drugs and Proteins
Authors: Minullina Renata , Tully Joshua , Yendluri Raghuvara , Lvov Yuri
Published: November 2016

Tubule halloysite is a promising nanomaterial for functional clay composites. Not only does the addition of halloysite improve the mechanical properties of the composites, but the clay also has a hollow lumen that allows for functionalization of the matrix by the extended release and adsorption of practical molecules. Applications such as extended drug release, protein immobilization, anti-corrosion, and flame retardation are only some of the realized uses for this versatile nanotube. Molecules can be selectively adsorbed inside or outside of the tube by charge or by selective surface modification of the tubes. Various parameters such as calcination, pre-treatment with polymers, and acid-base selective etching can further extended the usefulness of the tubes by allowing minute control of porosity, adsorption capacity and release kinetics. On average, a molecule can be loaded at 5-15% (w/w) efficiency and released over a period of hours to days without any treatment. By adding stoppers to the tubes or embedding them into polymeric matrix, release can often be extended to weeks or months. The tubes are also biocompatible which enables their use in biomedical applications.
Oxygen vacancies at the Au/SrTiO3(001) interface: stabilities, electronic properties and effect on photocatalysis
Authors: Ma Xiangchao , Dai Ying , Li Mengmeng , Huang Baibiao
Published: November 2016

The interfacial conductivity of Au/STO depends strongly on both the position and concentration of oxygen vacancies in the interfacial region.
High quality sustainable Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) absorber layers in highly efficient CZTSe solar cells
Authors: Lai Fang-I , Yang Jui-Fu , Wei Yu-Ling , Kuo Shou-Yi
Published: November 2016

An evaporation-processed Cu2ZnSnSe4 thin film solar cell with a conversion efficiency of 7.18% was facilely fabricated in an environmentally benign selenium atmosphere.
Long, self-assembled molecular ladders by cooperative dynamic covalent reactions
Authors: Wei Tao , Furgal Joseph C. , Jung Jae Hwan , Scott Timothy F.
Published: November 2016

The dynamic covalent self-assembly of peptoid-based oligomers bearing n complementary functional groups yields molecular ladders with n covalent rungs.
Chitosan and imide-functional Fe3O4 nanoparticles to prepare new xanthene based poly(ether-imide) nanocomposites
Authors: Shabanian Meisam , Moghanian Hassan , Khaleghi Mahroo , Hajibeygi Mohsen , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Vahabi Henri
Published: November 2016

In this work a new series of multifunctional nanocomposites were synthesized based on a soluble poly(ether-imide).
A new parameter for the stimulation effect and its application in the prediction of the hormetic effect in chemical mixtures
Authors: Wang Ting , Lin Zhifen , Yin Chunsheng , An Qingqing , Zhang Xiaoxian , Wang Dali , Liu Ying
Published: November 2016

To study the prediction methods is important for chronic mixture toxicity at low concentration, particularly mixtures containing chemicals with hormetic effects because pollutants in the real environment exist at low-doses in the form of mixtures.
Co-processing of bio-oil from de-oiled Jatropha curcas seed cake with refinery gas–oil over sulfided CoMoP/Al2O3 catalyst
Authors: Poddar Mukesh Kumar , Rai Aditya , Maurya Mannar Ram , Sinha Anil Kumar
Published: November 2016

Schematic representation of Co-processing of bio-oil from de-oiled Jatropha curcas seed cake with refinery gas–oil over sulfided CoMoP/Al2O3 catalyst.
Investigation on mechanical, corrosion resistance and antibacterial properties of Cu-bearing 2205 duplex stainless steel by solution treatment
Authors: Zhao Jinlong , Yang Chunguang , Zhang Dawei , Zhao Ying , Khan M. Saleem , Xu Dake , Xi Tong , Li Xiaogang , Yang Ke
Published: November 2016

Solution treated 2205-Cu DSS with strong antibacterial performance against M. salsuginis showed appropriate mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
Molecular determinants of KA1 domain-mediated autoinhibition and phospholipid activation of MARK1 kinase
Authors: Emptage Ryan P. , Lemmon Mark A. , Ferguson Kathryn M.
Published: November 2016

Protein kinases are frequently regulated by intramolecular autoinhibitory interactions between protein modules that are reversed when these modules bind other ‘activating’ protein or membrane-bound targets. One group of kinases, the MAP/microtubule affinity-regulating kinases (MARKs) contain a poorly understood regulatory module, the KA1 (kinase associated-1) domain, at their C-terminus. KA1 domains from MARK1 and several related kinases from yeast to humans have been shown to bind membranes containing anionic phospholipids, and peptide ligands have also been reported. Deleting or mutating the C-terminal KA1 domain has been reported to activate the kinase in which it is found — also suggesting an intramolecular autoinhibitory role. Here, we show that the KA1 domain of human MARK1 interacts with, and inhibits, the MARK1 kinase domain. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we identify residues in the KA1 domain required for this autoinhibitory activity, and find that residues involved in autoinhibition and in anionic phospholipid binding are the same. We also demonstrate that a ‘mini’ MARK1 becomes activated upon association with vesicles containing anionic phospholipids, but only if the protein is targeted to these vesicles by a second signal. These studies provide a mechanistic basis for understanding how MARK1 and its relatives may require more than one signal at the membrane surface to control their activation at the correct location and time. MARK family kinases have been implicated in a plethora of disease states including Alzheimer's, cancer, and autism, so advancing our understanding of their regulatory mechanisms may ultimately have therapeutic value.
CXCR2 is involved in pulmonary intravascular macrophage accumulation and angiogenesis in a rat model of hepatopulmonary syndrome
Authors: Li Xujiong , Chen Yunxia , Chang Yongli , Li Shufen , Zhao Zhongfu , Zhang Huiying
Published: November 2016

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a lung complication in various liver diseases, with high incidence, poor prognosis and no effective non-surgical treatments in patients with hepatocirrhosis. Therefore, assessing HPS pathogenesis to explore proper therapy strategies is clinically relevant. In the present study, male Sprague–Dawley rats underwent sham operation or common bile duct ligation (CBDL). Two weeks post-surgery, the following groups were set up for 2 weeks of treatment: sham + normal saline, CBDL + CXCR2 antagonist SB225002, CBDL + tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) antagonist PTX and CBDL + normal saline groups. Liver and lung tissues were collected after mean arterial pressure (MAP) and portal venous pressure (PVP) measurements. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining (lung) and Masson staining (liver) were performed for pathological analyses. Finally, pulmonary tissue RNA and total protein were assessed for target effectors. The mRNA and protein levels of CXCR2 were significantly increased in the pulmonary tissue of CBDL rats. What's more, CXCR2 inhibition by SB225002 reduced the expression of CD68 and von Willebrand factor (vWf) in CBDL rats. Importantly, CXCR2 inhibition suppressed the activation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in CBDL rats. Antagonization of TNF-α with PTX down-regulated the expression of CXCR2. During HPS pathogenesis in rats, CXCR2 might be involved in the accumulation of pulmonary intravascular macrophages and angiogenesis, possibly by activating Akt and ERK, with additional regulation by TNF-α that enhanced pulmonary angiogenesis by directly acting on the pulmonary tissue. Finally, the present study may provide novel targets for the treatment of HPS.
Fast and robust binary descriptor using intensity rank binning
Authors: Park C. , Kim J. , Kweon I.S.
Published: November 2016

Binary descriptors have been shown to be computationally efficient while their recognition rate is poorer than that of floating‐point descriptors. A method of improving both the recognition rate and the speed of computation for thresholded intensity rank descriptor, one of the binary descriptors is proposed. In experiments, our descriptor shows better performance than other binary descriptors in terms of both the recognition rate and the speed of computation.
Convenient method of digital PI‐CDR lock‐detection for phase noise elimination and enhanced jitter tolerance
Authors: Li Tianyi , Xu Xiaodong , Yin Tao , Li Wei , Yang Haigang
Published: November 2016

A lock‐detector for the digital phase interpolator based clock and dada recovery circuit (PI‐CDR) is proposed. The simple method could commendably lock the PI‐control code when the CDR is locked, which eliminates the systematic phase noise of the recovered clock without reducing the jitter tolerance ability. The proposed architecture is implemented in 0.13 μm CMOS and occupies area of 0.18 mm2.
Fundamental transverse mode operation of a type‐II vertical‐external‐cavity surface‐emitting laser at 1.2 µm
Authors: Möller C. , Zhang F. , Fuchs C. , Berger C. , Rehn A. , Ruiz Perez A. , Rahimi‐Iman A. , Hader J. , Koch M. , Moloney J.V. , Koch S.W. , Stolz W.
Published: November 2016

The modal properties of a novel vertical‐external‐cavity surface‐emitting laser with (GaIn)As/Ga(AsSb)/(GaIn)As type‐II quantum wells are analysed. The device, emitting at a wavelength around 1175 nm, is operated in TEM00 mode and optimised for a high beam quality. The M2 factors are measured at various pump powers. An excellent beam quality is observed for up to 350 mW with an M2 < 1.2.
Tunable MEMS capacitor: influence of fluids
Authors: Habbachi N. , Boussetta H. , Boukabache A. , Kallala M.A. , Pons P. , Besbes K.
Published: November 2016

The effect of a dielectric liquid on the tunability of capacitor operating in RF domains is evaluated. The RF measurement shows a high variation of the resonant frequency accompanied with a low insertion loss. Moreover, the fluid positions between electrodes modify the capacitance value up to Tr = 6660% at 600 MHz. The quality factor decreases in response of water filling from Qmax = 51.9 when it is empty to Qmin = 1.49 when it is fully filled. According to the finite‐element method analysis, the change of the dielectric permittivity influences the capacitor performances. Essentially, the tuning range of the capacitance and the quality factor could reach, respectively: Tr = 7660% and Qmin = 35.
3D Dubins curves based path programming for mobile sink in underwater sensor networks
Authors: Cai Wenyu , Zhang Meiyan
Published: November 2016

Mobile data collection is one of research highlights for sparse three‐dimensional underwater sensor networks. Therein, optimal or near‐optimal cruise trajectory planning of mobile sink is very crucial. A 3D Dubins curves based continuous path programming algorithm (GA‐3DTSP in short) for underwater mobile sink with non‐holonomic constraints such as well‐known autonomous underwater vehicle is proposed. The objective of GA‐3DTSP algorithm is to trace sparsely deployed sensor nodes by mobile sink so as to achieve near‐optimal energy conservation efficiency. First, an extended 3D Dubins curve is proposed and the length calculation formulae for 3D Dubins curve are investigated. Furthermore, genetic algorithm is used to tackle this difficult NP‐complete problem of planning shortest paths in a heuristic manner. Finally, simulation results verify that the proposed GA‐3DTSP method can conserve cruise energy of mobile sink effectively.
Recasted models‐based hierarchical extended stochastic gradient method for MIMO nonlinear systems
Authors: Wang Dongqing , Mao Li , Ding Feng
Published: November 2016

For the identification of a class of nonlinear multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) Hammerstein systems with different types of coefficients: a matrix coefficient and scalar coefficients, it is difficult to parameterise such Hammerstein systems into an identification model to which the standard identification method can be easily applied to implement parameter estimation. By the matrix transformation and the over‐parametrisation idea, this study transforms an MIMO Hammerstein system with different types of coefficients into an over‐parametrisation regression identification model, and points out the aroused large computation problem. To overcome the large computational load of the over‐parametrisation method, by the matrix transformation and the hierarchical identification principle, this study recasts the MIMO Hammerstein system into two models, each of which is expressed as a regression form in the parameters of the nonlinear part or in the parameters of the linear part. Then a hierarchical extended stochastic gradient algorithm is presented to alternatively estimate the parameters of the nonlinear part and the parameters of the linear part. The simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithm can effectively identify the nonlinear MIMO Hammerstein system.
Finite control‐set model predictive current control of five‐phase permanent‐magnet synchronous machine based on virtual voltage vectors
Authors: Xue Cheng , Song Wensheng , Feng Xiaoyun
Published: November 2016

This study proposes a finite control‐set model predictive current control (FCS‐MPCC) scheme based on virtual voltage vectors for five‐phase permanent magnet synchronous machines, which aims to reduce the low‐order harmonic components of stator currents. In addition, comparing with traditional FCS‐MPCC algorithms, the proposed algorithm retains fast control dynamic response and brings several other benefits: such as smaller burden of calculation, approximate constant switching frequency in entire speed operation range and lower current harmonics, especially for three‐order harmonics. Furthermore, the one‐step delay compensate solution of the proposed FCS‐MPCC scheme in digital‐controller implementation is presented. Finally, a series of computer simulation and hardware‐in‐loop (HIL) experimental tests are adopted to compare the performances of the proposed FCS‐MPCC and two traditional FCS‐MPCC schemes. Simulation and HIL experimental results have verified the validity and effectiveness of the proposed FCS‐MPCC scheme using virtual voltage vectors.
Printed H‐plane horn antenna with loaded dielectric‐metal composite lens
Authors: Zong Hua , Liu Xi , Ma Xinru , Zhao Zhihua , Lin Shu
Published: November 2016

A printed H‐plane horn antenna with loaded composite E‐plane dielectric‐metal lens is proposed and analysed in this study. The loaded lens of this horn antenna, which is parallel fed through an Sub‐Miniature‐A coaxial connecter, is integrated on one printed substrate circuit board by utilising the substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) technique. To well illustrate the superiority of the proposed antenna, three types of antennas, namely an SIW H‐plane horn antenna without any load, an SIW H‐plane horn antenna only loaded with the dielectric slab, and the proposed SIW H‐plane horn antenna loaded with both dielectric slab and E‐plane metal lens (dielectric‐metal composite lens), are manufactured, measured and analysed. Compared with the horn antenna only with a loaded dielectric slab, the proposed antenna with dielectric‐metal composite lens achieves a higher gain of more than 2dB in the operating bandwidth. Besides, the antenna has a relatively lower profile and smaller size, which makes the proposed antenna more easily to be fed, integrated and form arrays.
Approach to detector design for statistical multiple‐input–multiple‐output radars using multi‐scan data
Authors: Sharify Soroush , Nayebi Mohammad Mahdi
Published: November 2016

This study considers the detector design and performance analysis in a statistical multiple‐input–multiple‐output radar. The authors studied this subject under some assumptions such as single point target, Swerling scattering models for radar cross‐section and Gaussian interference. The target is assumed to move in a piecewise linear trajectory and multi‐scan data is stored. So, the target cell may have changed during the time. A three‐dimensional data signal space is generated that involved in observations from multiple scans, then a generalised likelihood ratio test detector is derived that employs consecutive observations in a central unit. Then a sub‐optimum detector is introduced in which each pair of transmitters–receivers works separately and the central unit decides with a binary algorithm. The exact theoretical performances of both detectors are extracted and their qualities are compared. Numerical simulations verify all results.
Results of a New Treatment Concept for Concomitant Lesion of Medial Collateral Ligament in Patients with Rupture of Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Paul Jochen , Haenle Maximilian , Sailer Jannes , Pagenstert Geert , Wehren Lutz , Vogt Stephan , Majewski Martin , Blanke Fabian
Published: November 2016

Anteromedial knee injury with rupture of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and concomitant lesion of medial collateral ligament (MCL) is common in athletes. No standardized treatment concept can be found within the literature. This study presents results of a new treatment concept for concomitant MCL lesions in patients with ACL rupture. In this study, 67 recreational athletes with ACL injury and concomitant MCL lesion were treated according to a distinct treatment concept. Patients were classified in six different types of concomitant MCL lesion depending on grade of MCL lesion and presence of anteromedial rotatory instability (AMRI). Final classification and surgical indication were determined 6 weeks posttraumatic. All patients received ACL reconstruction. MCL was treated by surgical or conservative regime due to type of concomitant MCL lesion. International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), AMRI, and Lysholm scores were evaluated both preoperatively and after 6 weeks, 16 weeks, 12 months, and 18 months postoperatively. All patients could be uniquely classified and treated according to the introduced treatment concept. AMRI was verifiable in patients with grade II and III MCL lesions. All patients showed good to excellent clinical results at the follow-up examinations. In all 67 patients (100%), the findings were graded as normal or nearly normal according to the IKDC knee examination form. Lysholm score averaged 93.9 at final follow-up. The introduced treatment concept showed good results on short-term outcome and provides a sufficient treatment strategy for concomitant MCL lesions in athletes with ACL rupture.
Tuberculoid Granuloma in the Brainstem: Case Report
Authors: Ludwig Tobias , Rogerio Luiz , Reis Marcelo , de Almeida Leandro , Frizzon Gabriel , Finger Guilherme , Gallo Pasquale , Chaves Jennyfer
Published: November 2016

Meningitis or meningoencephalitis are the most common presentations of Koch bacilli infection on the central nervous system (CNS), especially in immunosuppressed patients, in whom the bacilli normally reaches the meninges and the cerebral parenchyma.. A least common pathological presentation is the tumoral growth pattern disease known as tuberculoma. This pathological entity is more common in the cerebral hemispheres and is rarely located in the brainstem. The present case report describes a case of a 55-year-old patient under regular antiretroviral therapy who was hospitalized with signs of brainstem and cerebellar disturbances. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed an exophytic lesion in the dorsal region of the pons. The patient underwent total resection of the lesion and the histopathologic analysis was consistent with a tuberculoma.
Computerized Cardiotocography Analysis: Comparison among Several Parental Ethnic Origins
Authors: Di Tommaso Mariarosaria , Martello Giulia , Kanninen Tomi , Perelli Federica , Iannuzzi Laura , Sisti Giovanni
Published: November 2016

Objective We speculate that genetic racial disparity exists in fetal life and can be detected by modern computerized cardiotocography (cCTG).

Methods This is a retrospective study comparing the results of the cCTG of pregnant patients at 37–42 weeks according to the parental ethnicity (black versus white). A cCTG was performed to analyze the variables of fetal heart rate (FHR). The cCTG variables analyzed were: percentage of signal loss; number of contractions; basal FHR; number of accelerations; number of decelerations; length of high variation episodes; short-term variability (STV); total trace duration time; and number of fetal active movements. Non-stress test (NST) parameters in the two groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney test for continuous data, and the Chi-square test for categorical variables.

Results We found a significantly lower number of active fetal movements (p = 0.007) and longer periods of low variation (p = 0.047) in the cCTG of black patients when compared with white patients.

Conclusions In conclusion, identifying the factors responsible for the variance in the objective analysis of CTG results is important to improve the outcomes of patients. Our study lends further evidence as to the importance of ethnicity in clinical cCTG interpretation.
Enstrophy-based proper orthogonal decomposition of flow past rotating cylinder at super-critical rotating rate
Authors: Sengupta Tapan K. , Gullapalli Atchyut
Published: November 2016

Spinning cylinder rotating about its axis experiences a transverse force/lift, an account of this basic aerodynamic phenomenon is known as the Robins-Magnus effect in text books. Prandtl studied this flow by an inviscid irrotational model and postulated an upper limit of the lift experienced by the cylinder for a critical rotation rate. This non-dimensional rate is the ratio of oncoming free stream speed and the surface speed due to rotation. Prandtl predicted a maximum lift coefficient as CLmax = 4π for the critical rotation rate of two. In recent times, evidences show the violation of this upper limit, as in the experiments of Tokumaru and Dimotakis [“The lift of a cylinder executing rotary motions in a uniform flow,” J. Fluid Mech. 255, 1–10 (1993)] and in the computed solution in Sengupta et al. [“Temporal flow instability for Magnus–robins effect at high rotation rates,” J. Fluids Struct. 17, 941–953 (2003)]. In the latter reference, this was explained as the temporal instability affecting the flow at higher Reynolds number and rotation rates (>2). Here, we analyze the flow past a rotating cylinder at a super-critical rotation rate (=2.5) by the enstrophy-based proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) of direct simulation results. POD identifies the most energetic modes and helps flow field reconstruction by reduced number of modes. One of the motivations for the present study is to explain the shedding of puffs of vortices at low Reynolds number (Re = 60), for the high rotation rate, due to an instability originating in the vicinity of the cylinder, using the computed Navier-Stokes equation (NSE) from t = 0 to t = 300 following an impulsive start. This instability is also explained through the disturbance mechanical energy equation, which has been established earlier in Sengupta et al. [“Temporal flow instability for Magnus–robins effect at high rotation rates,” J. Fluids Struct. 17, 941–953 (2003)].
Laser-assisted field evaporation of metal oxides: A time-dependent density functional theory study
Authors: Xia Yu , Li Zhibing
Published: November 2016

To understand laser-assisted field evaporation of semiconductors and insulators at the microscopic level, we study the time evolution of the electronic and atomic structure of a MgO cluster in high electrostatic fields subjected to strong laser pulses. We find that the critical laser intensity for evaporation decreases linearly as the electrostatic field strength increases. The optical absorption enhancement in high electrostatic field is confirmed by the redshift of the optical absorption spectra, the reduction of the energy gap, and the increase of the absorption cross section.
Detecting thermal rectification
Authors: Chiu Cheng-Li , Wu Chi-Hsun , Huang Bor-Woei , Chien Chiao-Ying , Chang Chih-Wei
Published: November 2016

Thermal rectification is a special heat transfer phenomenon that thermal conductance of a sample is higher in one direction than that in the reversed direction. Thermal rectifiers have been proposed to be the building blocks of phononic circuits, high performance thermoelectric devices, and energy-saving materials. Theoretically, thermal rectification has been suggested to be ubiquitous, occurring in wherever nonlinear interactions and broken inversion symmetry are present. However, currently available experimental methods have limited sensitivities and are unable to unravel the interesting effect in many systems. Here, by adopting the concept of nonlinear optics, we propose an improved experimental method to detect minuscule thermal rectification from large background thermal conductance. Experimentally, a SiC nanowire, a SiGe nanowire, and a multiwall BN nanotube are investigated and found their thermal rectification is smaller than 0.2% even after asymmetric mass-loading. The method would be very powerful in revealing interesting phonon properties of many materials.
Digenean trematode cysts within the heads of threatened Galaxiella species (Teleostei : Galaxiidae) from south-eastern Australia
Authors: Coleman R. A. , Hoffmann A. A.
Published: November 2016

The dwarf galaxias (Galaxiella pusilla) and little galaxias (Galaxiella toourtkoourt) are both threatened freshwater fish from south-eastern Australia. Occasionally populations have been found with enlarged heads associated with the accumulation of ‘white balls’, but the cause of these deformities has not previously been investigated. In this study, histopathology and molecular techniques were employed to identify cysts extracted from the heads of Galaxiella species across six populations. Histopathology and DNA sequences from both mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) and nuclear (ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1) regions identified the cysts as metacercariae of Apatemon gracilis (Rudolphi, 1819), a cosmopolitan digenean trematode species. Heavy infestations of trematode metacercariae within Galaxiella populations are of concern due to the potential to cause increased mortality associated with altered behaviour of the fish host that increases the likelihood of predation. Direct mortality from infestations is also possible, but not quantified in this study.
Evaluating early-warning indicators of critical transitions in natural aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Gsell Alena Sonia , Scharfenberger Ulrike , Özkundakci Deniz , Walters Annika , Hansson Lars-Anders , Janssen Annette B. G. , Nõges Peeter , Reid Philip C. , Schindler Daniel E. , Van Donk Ellen , Dakos Vasilis , Adrian Rita
Published: November 2016

Significance

Early-warning indicators (EWIs), statistical metrics of system resilience, have been hypothesized to provide advance warning of sudden shifts in ecosystems, or so-called “regime shifts.” Here we tested this hypothesis for four commonly used EWIs. We used empirical time series from five freshwater ecosystems with documented sudden, persistent transitions hypothesized to represent critical transitions. EWIs were detected in several of these long-term records, and in some cases several years before the transition; however, these EWIs varied in reliability, and agreement between indicators was low. Moreover, their applicability was strongly limited by the requirement for ecosystem-specific knowledge of transition-generating mechanisms and their drivers to choose relevant state variables for analysis.
Design principles for nonequilibrium self-assembly
Authors: Nguyen Michael , Vaikuntanathan Suriyanarayanan
Published: November 2016

Significance

Understanding the principles governing self-assembly remains an important problem in statistical mechanics. We find, surprisingly, that general design principles for this challenging problem can be obtained by applying ideas from the field of stochastic thermodynamics to nonequilibrium self-assembly problems. Our central results constrain the set of possible configurations achievable under a nonequilibrium drive.