bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure Shapes Dynamics and Directionality in Diverse Brain Networks: Mathematical Principles and Empirical Confirmation in Three Species
Authors: Moon Joon-Young , Kim Junhyeok , Ko Tae-Wook , Kim Minkyung , Iturria-Medina Yasser , Choi Jee-Hyun , Lee Joseph , Mashour George A. , Lee UnCheol
Published: April 2017

Identifying how spatially distributed information becomes integrated in the brain is essential to understanding higher cognitive functions. Previous computational and empirical studies suggest a significant influence of brain network structure on brain network function. However, there have been few analytical approaches to explain the role of network structure in shaping regional activities and directionality patterns. In this study, analytical methods are applied to a coupled oscillator model implemented in inhomogeneous networks. We first derive a mathematical principle that explains the emergence of directionality from the underlying brain network structure. We then apply the analytical methods to the anatomical brain networks of human, macaque, and mouse, successfully predicting simulation and empirical electroencephalographic data. The results demonstrate that the global directionality patterns in resting state brain networks can be predicted solely by their unique network structures. This study forms a foundation for a more comprehensive understanding of how neural information is directed and integrated in complex brain networks.
MEIS1 variant as a determinant of autonomic imbalance in Restless Legs Syndrome
Authors: Thireau Jérôme , Farah Charlotte , Molinari Nicolas , Bouilloux Fabrice , Torreilles Lucas , Winkelmann Juliane , Scholz Sabine , Richard Sylvain , Dauvilliers Yves , Marmigère Frédéric
Published: April 2017

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a genetically complex neurological disorder in which overlapping genetic risk factors may contribute to the diversity and heterogeneity of the symptoms. The main goal of the study was to investigate, through analysis of heart rate variability (HRV), whether in RLS patients the MEIS1 polymorphism at risk influences the sympathovagal regulation in different sleep stages. Sixty-four RLS patients with periodic leg movement index above 15 per hour, and 38 controls underwent one night of video-polysomnographic recording. HRV in the frequency- and time- domains was analyzed during nighttime sleep. All RLS patients were genotyped, and homozygotes for rs2300478 in the MEIS1 locus were used for further analysis. Comparison of the sympathovagal pattern of RLS patients to control subjects did not show significant differences after adjustments for confounding factors in frequency-domain analyses, but showed an increased variability during N2 and N3 stages in time-domain analyses in RLS patients. Sorting of RLS patients according to MEIS1 polymorphism reconfirmed the association between MEIS1 and PLMS, and showed a significant increased sympathovagal balance during N3 stage in those homozygotes for the risk allele. RLS patients should be considered differently depending on MEIS1 genotype, some being potentially at risk for cardiovascular disorders.
Influence of copper and potassium on the structure and carbidisation of supported iron catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis
Authors: Chernavskii Petr A. , Kazak Vladislav O. , Pankina Galina V. , Perfiliev Yurii D. , Li Tong , Virginie Mirella , Khodakov Andrei Y.
Published: April 2017

In silica supported iron Fischer–Tropsch catalysts, promotion with copper strongly enhances both hematite reduction and magnetite carbidisation, while potassium promotion hinders reduction of hematite to magnetite but enhances magnetite carbidisation in carbon monoxide.
A highly zinc-selective ratiometric fluorescent probe based on AIE luminogen functionalized coordination polymer nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Na , Zhang Qin , Xia Xin , Liang Mengyu , Zhang Shihong , Zheng Liyan , Cao Qiue , Ding Zhongtao
Published: April 2017

A highly zinc-selective ratiometric fluorescent probe was developed based on the cation exchange process of Tb-HDBB-CPNs with Zn2+.
Wasp-waisted behavior in magnetic hysteresis curves of CoFe2O4 nanopowder at a low temperature: experimental evidence and theoretical approach
Authors: Magno de Lima Alves Tibério , Amorim Bruno Ferreira , Morales Torres Marco Antonio , Bezerra Claudionor Gomes , Nóbrega de Medeiros Suzana , Gastelois Pedro Lana , Fernandez Outon Luis Eugenio , Augusto de Almeida Macedo Waldemar
Published: April 2017

We theoretically and experimentally investigated wasp-waisted magnetic hysteresis curves at a low temperature for CoFe2O4 nanopowders.
Automated development of an LC-MS/MS method for measuring multiple vitamin D metabolites using MUSCLE software
Authors: Jenkinson Carl , Bradbury James , Taylor Angela , Adams John S. , He Shan , Viant Mark R. , Hewison Martin
Published: April 2017

This study describes the application of Multi-platform Unbiased optimization of Spectrometry via Closed-Loop Experimentation (MUSCLE) software to automate the development of an LC-MS/MS method to measure multiple metabolites of vitamin D.
Efficient phosphine-mediated formal C(sp3)–C(sp3) coupling reactions of alkyl halides in batch and flow
Authors: Tran U. P. N. , Hock K. J. , Gordon C. P. , Koenigs R. M. , Nguyen T. V.
Published: April 2017

The Wittig-type chemical procedure is adapted to efficiently facilitate alkyl–alkyl coupling reactions in batch and flow.
Multistage torrefaction and in situ catalytic upgrading to hydrocarbon biofuels: analysis of life cycle energy use and greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Zaimes George G. , Beck Andrew W. , Janupala Rajiv R. , Resasco Daniel E. , Crossley Steven P. , Lobban Lance L. , Khanna Vikas
Published: April 2017

Well-to-wheel (WTW) life cycle assessment (LCA) of multistage torrefaction and in situ catalytic upgrading: overview of unit operations, modeling tools, and data sources.
Leaf parts from Greek artichoke genotypes as a good source of bioactive compounds and antioxidants
Authors: Petropoulos Spyridon A. , Pereira Carla , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: April 2017

Leaf blades had higher antioxidant activity and total phenolic compound content than midribs and petioles.
Pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidines as sigma-1 receptor ligands for the treatment of pain. Part 2: Introduction of cyclic substituents in position 4
Authors: Díaz José Luis , Corbera Jordi , Martínez Daniel , Bordas Magda , Sicre Cristina , Pascual Rosalia , Pretel Mª José , Marín Ana Paz , Montero Ana , Dordal Albert , Alvarez Inés , Almansa Carmen
Published: April 2017

A SAR study identified the 4-(1-methylpyrazol-5-yl) derivative, 12f, as a selective σ1R antagonist with a good ADMET profile and potent antinociception.
A new four-component reaction involving the Michael addition and the Gewald reaction, leading to diverse biologically active 2-aminothiophenes
Authors: Thomas Joice , Jana Sampad , Sonawane Mahendra , Fiey Bert , Balzarini Jan , Liekens Sandra , Dehaen Wim
Published: April 2017

A Gewald-four component reaction has been successfully developed for the synthesis of a series of compounds containing an indole and a 2-aminothiophene moiety separated by a methylene spacer having anti-proliferative activity.
A peculiar layered 12-fold cationic coordination compound LiInTi2O6: phase relations, crystal structure and color-tunable photoluminescence
Authors: Su Liu-Mei , Fan Xing , Cai Ge-Mei , Jin Zhan-Peng
Published: April 2017

Color-tunable white-lighting photoluminescence was achieved in a peculiar layered 12-fold cationic coordination host, LiInTi2O6.
A macro-porous graphene oxide-based membrane as a separator with enhanced thermal stability for high-safety lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liao Haiyang , Zhang Haiyan , Qin Gai , Li Zhenghui , Li Liuqing , Hong Haoqun
Published: April 2017

To develop a separator with remarkable thermal-resistance for high-safety lithium-ion batteries, a graphene-oxide-grafted, hyper-branched polyether macro-porous membrane without any polymer binder was designed and prepared using polystyrene nanoparticles as hard templates.
Electrochemical energy storage by aluminum as a lightweight and cheap anode/charge carrier
Authors: Eftekhari Ali , Corrochano Pablo
Published: April 2017

Metals such as Li, Na, Mg, etc. are the basis of promising rechargeable batteries, but Al has unique advantages: (i) the most abundant metal in the Earth's crust, (ii) trivalent charge carrier storing three times more charge with each ion transfer compared to Li, (iii) the volumetric capacity of the Al anode is four times higher than that of Li while their gravimetric capacities are similar, (iv) employing a metallic Al anode is not a big safety risk as it is for alkali metals.
Anti-solvent dependent device performance in CH3NH3PbI3 solar cells: the role of intermediate phase content in the as-prepared thin films
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Jianan , Yuan Yi , Dong Xiandui , Wang Peng
Published: April 2017

Our work highlights the intrinsic role of an intermediate phase in controlling the film quality of a solution processed organic–inorganic hybrid CH3NH3PbI3.
Insights into the reversibility of aluminum graphite batteries
Authors: Elia Giuseppe Antonio , Hasa Ivana , Greco Giorgia , Diemant Thomas , Marquardt Krystan , Hoeppner Katrin , Behm R. Jürgen , Hoell Armin , Passerini Stefano , Hahn Robert
Published: April 2017

Herein we report a novel study on the reaction mechanism of non-aqueous aluminum/graphite cell chemistry employing 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride:aluminum trichloride (EMIMCl:AlCl3) as the electrolyte.
On the chemically-assisted excitonic enhancement in environmentally-friendly solution dispersions of two-dimensional MoS2 and WS2
Authors: Fadil Dalal , Hossain Ridwan F. , Saenz Gustavo A. , Kaul Anupama B.
Published: April 2017

Terpineol leads to effective exfoliation and excitonic enhancement in solution dispersions of MoS2 and WS2, which also yields enhancement in electronic transport properties. Such dispersions are amenable to high-performance electronic and opto-electronic devices using manufacturable routes.
Effects of rhBMP-2 gene transfection to periodontal ligament cells on osteogenesis
Authors: Jian Cong-Xiang , Fan Quan-Shui , Hu Yong-He , He Yong , Li Ming-Zhe , Zheng Wei-Yin , Ren Yu , Li Chen-Jun
Published: April 2017

The present study aims to investigate the effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) on the osteogenesis of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. The expression vector of rhBMP-2 (pcDNA3.1-rhBMP-2) was established. PDL cells were obtained through the enzymatic digestion and tissue explant methods and verified by immunohistochemistry. Cells were classified into experimental (cells transfected with pcDNA3.1/rhBMP-2-EGFP), blank (cells with no transfection) and control group (cells transfected with empty plasmid). rhBMP-2 expression was assessed via Western blotting analysis. The mineralization ability, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and level of related osteogenic biomarkers were detected to evaluate the osteogenic characteristics of PDL cells. The rhBMP-2 expression vector (pcDNA3.1-rhBMP-2) was successfully established. Primary PDL cells displayed a star or long, spindle shape. The cultured cells were long, spindle-shaped, had a plump cell body and homogeneous cytoplasm and the ellipse nucleus contained two or three nucleoli. Cells displayed a radial, sheaf-like or eddy-like arrangement after adherence growth. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed that cells originated from mesenchymal opposed to epithelium. The experimental group exhibited an enhanced mineralization ability, higher ALP activity and increased expression of rhBMP-2 and osteogenic biomarkers (Runx2, collagen type I and osteocalcin) than the blank and control group. The present study demonstrated that rhBMP-2 transfection enhances the osteogenesis of PDL cells and provides a possibility for the application of rhBMP-2 expression products in dental disease treatment.
SerpinC1/Antithrombin III in kidney-related diseases
Authors: Lu Zeyuan , Wang Feng , Liang Mingyu
Published: April 2017

The gene SerpinC1 encodes a serine protease inhibitor named antithrombin III (ATIII). This protease demonstrates both anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory action. ATIII is the most important coagulation factor inhibitor, and even minor changes in ATIII can significantly alter the risk of thromboembolism. ATIII can also suppress inflammation via a coagulation-dependent or -independent effect. Moreover, apart from ATIII deficiency, ATIII and its gene SerpinC1 may also be related to many diseases (e.g. hypertension, kidney diseases). The present review summarizes how ATIII affects the progress of kidney disease and its mechanism. Further studies are required to investigate how ATIII affects renal function and the treatment.
Novel Morpheme Learning in Monolingual and Bilingual Children
Authors: Kaushanskaya Margarita , Gross Megan , Sheena Enanna , Roman Rachel
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to examine the utility of a novel morpheme learning task for indexing typical language abilities in children characterized by diverse language backgrounds.

Method

Three groups of 5- to 6-year-old children were tested: monolingual speakers of English, native speakers of Spanish who also spoke English (Spanish-L1 bilinguals), and native speakers of English who also spoke Spanish (English-L1 bilinguals). All children were taught a new derivational morpheme /ku/ marking part–whole distinction in conjunction with English nouns. Retention was measured via a receptive task, and sensitivity and reaction time (RT) data were collected.

Results

All three groups of children learned the novel morpheme successfully and were able to generalize its use to untaught nouns. Furthermore, language characteristics (degree of exposure and levels of performance on standardized measures) did not contribute to bilingual children's learning outcomes.

Conclusion

Together, the findings indicate that this particular version of the novel morpheme learning task may be resistant to influences associated with language background and suggest potential usefulness of the task to clinical practice.
Image compressive sensing reconstruction based on collaboration reduced rank preprocessing
Authors: Tan Yun , Hou Xingsong , Chen Zan , Yu Shihang
Published: April 2017

The problem of image compressive sensing (CS) preprocessing is considered. Currently, image CS reconstruction algorithms mainly consider the sparsity prior knowledge of original image. However, the change of the sparsity strength among the different images may degrade the efficiency of the reconstruction algorithms. Thus the idea of CS preprocessing is proposed to serve two purposes: strengthen the sparsity property of the CS measured image and make preprocessing and reconstruction algorithm matched. Specifically, the collaboration reduced rank (CRR) preprocessing is proposed based on non‐local sparsity and non‐local low‐rank regularisation reconstruction algorithm (NLR‐CS). Then a more efficient CRR‐NLR‐CS CS reconstruction method is proposed which utilises the CRR preprocessing and NLR‐CS. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Diagnosing and distinguishing rotor eccentricity from partial demagnetisation of interior PMSM based on fluctuation of high‐frequency d‐axis inductance and rotor flux
Authors: Liu Zijian , Huang Jin , Li Bingnan
Published: April 2017

An appropriate and complete mathematical modelling approach is developed for an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) with general eccentricity. The relationships between air‐gap eccentricity and simulated inductances in different coordinate frames are analysed in depth. Then, an analytical high‐frequency inductance model of the interior PMSM with rotor eccentricity is developed. Based on this model, an online diagnostic approach is proposed, which includes estimation of the high‐frequency d‐axis inductance and permanent magnet (PM) flux. Thus the rotor eccentricity and PM partial demagnetisation can be detected and distinguished. Experimental results validate the proposed theory and fault diagnosis approach. Finally, an effective and reliable eccentricity indicator is presented. It is shown that analysis of the essential sources of fault characteristics facilitates motor fault diagnosis.
Silver-Catalyzed Intramolecular C(5)–H Acyloxylation of 1,4-Di­substituted 1,2,3-Triazoles
Authors: Jiang Yubo , Liu Yaowen , Zhang Wensheng , Xie Kai
Published: April 2017

Silver-catalyzed direct lactonization of 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole acids through C(5)–H acyloxylation is reported. This method provides a concise and efficient pathway to synthesize lactone-fused triazole derivatives, which were obtained in good to excellent yields at room temperature.
A Rare Complication of Central Venous Catheter Extravasation in a Preterm Neonate: Hemidiaphragmatic Paralysis
Authors: Hobson C. , Dubillot D. , Lardy H. , Sirinelli D. , Saliba E. , Lopez E.
Published: April 2017

We report a case of a preterm neonate born at 26 weeks' of gestation diagnosed with unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis. This paralysis was a consequence of a phrenic nerve injury due to extravasation of hyperosmolar parenteral nutrition fluid in the upper thorax. Chest X-rays and ultrasonography confirmed the diagnosis. The neonate was treated with prolonged respiratory support and did not require surgical treatment. This report describes a case of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis as a complication of central venous catheter insertion. In neonates, spontaneous recovery of diaphragmatic paralysis is possible. This study concludes that recovery of extravasation injury-induced phrenic nerve palsy in the context of conservative management is possible.
Prolonged Course of Salmonella Pelvic Osteomyelitis in an Immunocompetent African American Child: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kumar Jessica , Jacobs Michael , Bauer Matthew
Published: April 2017

Salmonella pelvic osteomyelitis is an uncommon manifestation of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in children without risk factors such as hemoglobinopathies or immunodeficiency syndromes. Here we report a case of prolonged pelvic osteomyelitis in an immunocompetent child who remained culture negative and refractory to both antibiotic therapy and nonsurgical intervention for 7 months. Definitive microbiological diagnosis and treatment were only obtained after open surgical exploration with substantial debridement. We therefore recommend earlier consideration of aggressive surgical intervention in cases of pelvic osteomyelitis in which no organism is definitively implicated or symptoms continue despite prolonged courses of antibiotics, both for source control and definitive diagnosis.
Dedicated Barrett's surveillance sessions managed by trained endoscopists improve dysplasia detection rate
Authors: Ooi Joanne , Wilson Patrick , Walker Giles , Blaker Paul , DeMartino Sabina , O’Donohue John , Reffitt David , Lanaspre Effie , Chang Fuju , Meenan John , Dunn Jason
Published: April 2017

Background and study aim Barrett’s esophagus (BE)-associated dysplasia is an important marker for risk of progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and an indication for endoscopic therapy. However, BE surveillance technique is variable. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of dedicated BE surveillance lists on dysplasia detection rate (DDR).

Patients and methods This was a prospective study of patients undergoing BE surveillance at two hospitals – community (UHL) and upper gastrointestinal center (GSTT). Four endoscopists (Group A) were trained in Prague classification, Seattle protocol biopsy technique, and lesion detection prior to performing BE surveillance endoscopies at both sites, with dedicated time slots or lists. The DDR was then compared with historical data from 47 different endoscopists at GSTT and 24 at UHL (Group B) who had undertaken Barrett’s surveillance over the preceding 5-year period.

Results A total of 729 patients with BE underwent surveillance endoscopy between 2007 and 2012. There was no significant difference in patient age, sex, or length of BE between the two groups. There was a significant difference in detection rate of confirmed indefinite or low grade dysplasia and high grade dysplasia (HGD)/EAC between the two groups: 18 % (26 /142) Group A vs. 8 % (45/587) in Group B (P  < 0.001). Documentation of Prague criteria and adherence to the Seattle protocol was significantly higher in Group A.

Conclusion This study demonstrated that a group of trained endoscopists undertaking Barrett’s surveillance on dedicated lists had significantly higher DDR than a nonspecialist cohort. These findings support the introduction of dedicated Barrett’s surveillance lists.
Diagnostic error, overconfidence and self-knowledge
Authors: Cassam Quassim
Published: April 2017

According to the overconfidence hypothesis (OH), physician overconfidence is a major factor contributing to diagnostic error in medicine. This article argues that OH can be read as offering a personal, a sub-personal or a systemic explanation of diagnostic error. It is argued that personal level overconfidence is an “epistemic vice”. The hypothesis that diagnostic errors due to overconfidence can be remedied by increasing physician self-knowledge is shown to be questionable. Some epistemic vices or cognitive biases, including overconfidence, are “stealthy” in the sense that they obstruct their own detection. Even if the barriers to self-knowledge can be overcome, some problematic traits are so deeply entrenched that even well-informed and motivated individuals might be unable to correct them. One such trait is overconfidence. Alternative approaches to “debiasing” are considered and it is argued that overconfidence is blameworthy only if it is understood as a personal level epistemic vice rather than a sub-personal cognitive bias. This paper is published as part of a collection on self-knowledge in and outside of illness.
Modelling oxide formation and growth on platinum
Authors: Baroody Heather A. , Jerkiewicz Gregory , Eikerling Michael H.
Published: April 2017

We present a mathematical model of oxide formation and growth on platinum. The motivation stems from the necessity to understand platinum dissolution in the cathode catalyst layer of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. As is known, platinum oxide formation and reduction are strongly linked to platinum dissolution processes. However, a consistent model of the oxidation processes on platinum does not exist. Our oxide growth model links interfacial exchange processes between platinum and oxygen ions with the transport of oxygen ion vacancies via diffusion and migration. A parametric analysis is performed to rationalize vital trends in oxide growth kinetics. The rate determining step of oxide formation and growth is identified as the extraction of platinum atoms at the metal-oxide interface. A kinetic effect is observed while adjusting the potential when growing the oxide layer, and the solution indicates that a structural change occurs at high potentials, around 1.5 VRHE. The model compares well to experimental data for various materials from various sources.
Quantum interference of two photons emitted from a luminescence center in GaAs:N
Authors: Ikezawa Michio , Zhang Liao , Sakuma Yoshiki , Masumoto Yasuaki
Published: April 2017

The indistinguishability of photons emitted from a nitrogen luminescence center in GaAs is investigated by two-photon interference under nonresonant optical excitation. A clear dip is observed in a parallel polarization configuration for consecutively emitted two photons with a 2-ns time interval. The indistinguishability is approximately 0.24, and is found to be independent of the time interval between 2 ns and 4 ns. These results suggest the existence of a very fast dephasing mechanism within 2 ns.
Two-photon absorption spectroscopy of trans-stilbene, cis-stilbene, and phenanthrene: Theory and experiment
Authors: de Wergifosse Marc , Houk Amanda L. , Krylov Anna I. , Elles Christopher G.
Published: April 2017

Two-photon absorption (2PA) spectroscopy provides complementary, and sometimes more detailed, information about the electronic structure of a molecule relative to one-photon absorption (1PA) spectroscopy. However, our understanding of the 2PA processes is rather limited due to technical difficulties in measuring experimental 2PA spectra and theoretical challenges in computing higher-order molecular properties. This paper examines the 2PA spectroscopy of trans-stilbene, cis-stilbene, and phenanthrene by a combined experimental and theoretical approach. The broadband 2PA spectra of all three compounds are measured under identical conditions in order to facilitate a direct comparison of the absolute 2PA cross sections in the range 3.5-6.0 eV. For comparison, the theoretical 2PA cross sections are computed using the equation-of-motion coupled-cluster method with single and double substitutions. Simulated 2PA spectra based on the calculations reproduce the main features of the experimental spectra in solution, although the quantitative comparison is complicated by a number of uncertainties, including limitations of the theoretical model, vibronic structure, broadening of the experimental spectra, and solvent effects. The systematic comparison of experimental and theoretical spectra for this series of structurally similar compounds provides valuable insight into the nature of 2PA transitions in conjugated molecules. Notably, the orbital character and symmetry-based selection rules provide a foundation for interpreting the features of the experimental 2PA spectra in unprecedented detail.
Instability phenomenon of high-frequency vacuum arc discharge associated with anode activity
Authors: Inada Y. , Kamiya T. , Matsuoka S. , Kumada A. , Ikeda H. , Hidaka K.
Published: April 2017

Instability phenomena of high-frequency vacuum arcs with an ∼100-kHz current waveform and active anodes were observed by using high-speed photography and optical emission spectroscopy and analyzed with a conventional theoretical model. Our experimental and theoretical studies demonstrated that the instability mechanism for the transient vacuum arcs was completely different from that for the well-known quasi-stationary diffused arcs, where a cathode process predominantly contributes to the instability phenomena. In the case of the high-frequency vacuum arcs, the instability phenomena were mainly induced by a collaborative anode process operated by anode evaporation and anode voltage drop.
The position-dependent vortex dynamics in the asymmetric superconducting ring
Authors: He An , Xue Cun , Zhang Hong , Deng Qingtian , Zhou Y. H.
Published: April 2017

We study the position-dependence of vortex motion around asymmetric mesoscopic superconducting ring for the external current flowing from inner boundaries to outer boundaries based on time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau theory. The inner hole position can have a great impact on not only the vortex configuration but also the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics. Different from the vortex rotation in the symmetric structure, we demonstrate that vortices enter/exit from outer boundaries periodically and the formation of curved vortex channel strongly depend on the inner hole position. As the inner hole is close enough to the outer boundaries, vortices get deformed even at low applied current. Flux-flow state (i.e., slow-moving Abrikosov vortices) and phase-slip state (i.e., fast-moving vortices) coexist during a multiharmonic voltage oscillation. In this way, the vortex motion and critical current of the sample can be manipulated by the hole position. At the critical current corresponding to the abrupt jump in I-V curve, vortex motion becomes unstable and the vortices are trapped in the hole for the symmetric ring, while the vortices disappear at the outer boundaries for the asymmetric ring.
Broadening microwave absorption via a multi-domain structure
Authors: Liu Zhengwang , Che Renchao , Wei Yong , Liu Yupu , Elzatahry Ahmed A. , Dahyan Daifallah Al. , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: April 2017

Materials with a high saturation magnetization have gained increasing attention in the field of microwave absorption; therefore, the magnetization value depends on the magnetic configuration inside them. However, the broad-band absorption in the range of microwave frequency (2-18 GHz) is a great challenge. Herein, the three-dimensional (3D) Fe/C hollow microspheres are constructed by iron nanocrystals permeating inside carbon matrix with a saturation magnetization of 340 emu/g, which is 1.55 times as that of bulk Fe, unexpectedly. Electron tomography, electron holography, and Lorentz transmission electron microscopy imaging provide the powerful testimony about Fe/C interpenetration and multi-domain state constructed by vortex and stripe domains. Benefiting from the unique chemical and magnetic microstructures, the microwave minimum absorption is as strong as −55 dB and the bandwidth (<−10 dB) spans 12.5 GHz ranging from 5.5 to 18 GHz. Morphology and distribution of magnetic nano-domains can be facilely regulated by a controllable reduction sintering under H2/Ar gas and an optimized temperature over 450–850 °C. The findings might shed new light on the synthesis strategies of the materials with the broad-band frequency and understanding the association between multi-domain coupling and microwave absorption performance.
Kinetic effects during the interaction between high density microplasma and electromagnetic wave
Authors: Levko Dmitry , Raja Laxminarayan L.
Published: April 2017

The interaction between a high-density microplasma and a high-power electromagnetic wave is studied by a one-dimensional Particle-in-Cell Monte Carlo collision model coupled with Maxwell's equations. We find the value of the amplitude of the wave field above which a fully ionized plasma is generated on the picosecond time scale. This fully ionized plasma is obtained only in the skin layer, while the ionization degree of the plasma bulk is ∼20%. The simulation results show that such non-homogeneous distribution of the plasma and gas density influences significantly the heating of plasma electrons and time evolution of the electron energy probability function.
Hydrodynamic instability growth of three-dimensional modulations in radiation-driven implosions with “low-foot” and “high-foot” drives at the National Ignition Facility
Authors: Smalyuk V. A. , Weber C. R. , Robey H. F. , Casey D. T. , Chen K.-C. , Clark D. S. , Farrell M. , Felker S. , Field J. E. , Haan S. W. , Hammel B. A. , Hamza A. V. , Hoover D. , Kroll J. J. , Landen O. L. , MacPhee A. G. , Martinez D. , Nikroo A. , Rice N.
Published: April 2017

Hydrodynamic instability growth has been studied using three-dimensional (3-D) broadband modulations by comparing “high-foot” and “low-foot” spherical plastic (CH) capsule implosions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [E. M. Campbell et al., AIP Conf. Proc. 429, 3 (1998)]. The initial perturbations included capsule outer-surface roughness and capsule-mounting membranes (“tents”) that were similar to those used in a majority of implosions on NIF. The tents with thicknesses of 31-nm, 46-nm, and 109-nm were used in the experiments. The outer-surface roughness in the “low-foot” experiment was similar to the standard specification, while it was increased by ∼4 times in the “high-foot” experiment to compensate for the reduced growth. The ablation-front instability growth was measured using a Hydrodynamic Growth Radiography platform at a convergence ratio of ∼3. The dominant capsule perturbations, generated by the tent mountings, had measured perturbation amplitudes comparable to the capsule thickness with the “low-foot” drive. These tent perturbations were reduced by ∼3 to 10 times in implosions with the “high-foot” drive. Unexpectedly, the measured perturbations with initially thinner tents were either larger or similar to the measured perturbations with thicker tents for both “high-foot” and “low-foot” drives. While the measured instability growth of 3-D broadband perturbations was also significantly reduced by ∼5 to 10 times with the “high-foot” drive, compared to the “low-foot” drive, the growth mitigation was stronger than expected based on previous “growth-factor” results measured with two-dimensional modulations [D. T. Casey et al., Phys. Rev. E 90, 011102 (2014)]. One of the hypotheses to explain the results is based on the 3-D modulations of the oxygen content in the bulk of the capsule having a stronger effect on the overall growth of capsule perturbations than the outer-surface capsule roughness.
Structural properties of GeSn thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Zhang Z. P. , Song Y. X. , Zhu Z. Y. S. , Han Y. , Chen Q. M. , Li Y. Y. , Zhang L. Y. , Wang S. M.
Published: April 2017

GeSn thin films on Ge (001) with various Sn concentrations from 3.36 to 7.62% were grown by molecular beam epitaxy and characterized. The structural properties were analyzed by reciprocal space mapping in the symmetric (004) and asymmetric (224) planes by high resolution X-ray diffraction (XRD). The lateral correlation length (LCL) and the mosaic spread (MS) were extracted for the epi-layer peaks in the asymmetric (224) diffraction. With the increase of Sn concentration, the LCL reduces while the MS increases, indicating degrading crystalline quality. Dislocations were observed in the sample with 7.62% Sn concentration by transmission electron microscope, consistent with the strain relaxation found in XRD mapping. Besides, the surface morphologies were investigated.
Is systems research addressing the current and future needs of dairy farms?
Authors: Raedts P. J. M. , Garcia S. C. , Chapman D. F. , Edwards G. R. , Lane N. , Rawnsley R. P.
Published: April 2017

During the past decade, Australian and New Zealand dairy farmers have been increasingly exposed to volatility in milk prices, declining terms of trade, climate variability, changing regulation, and increasing consumer demand to demonstrate their ‘social licence to farm’. In response to the varying challenges, it is not surprising that we see significant diversity in dairy-farm systems in Australia and New Zealand. Despite much research effort to address these challenges at both the component and farm-system level, the evidence of adoption and dairy farming-system change over the past 5 years has been inconclusive. The present review explores how farmers and systems research have been affected and are responding, and whether systems research is developing research in the appropriate direction, proactively researching dairy-farming systems that are resilient, profitable and sustainable into the future, notwithstanding the increased volatility that dairy farms are experiencing. While much farm systems research in Australia and New Zealand has addressed the challenges associated with improving productivity and profitability, and the known challenges such as climate variability and improving environmental outcomes, there is need to fore-sight future risk, challenges and opportunities for dairy systems. It is also important that the system researchers explore alternative approaches such as working collaboratively with the known system experts, the dairy farmer, in a participatory environment to increase rate of knowledge transfer and adoption of positive research outcome.
Spontaneous emergence of catalytic cycles with colloidal spheres
Authors: Zeravcic Zorana , Brenner Michael P.
Published: April 2017

Significance

Biological systems inspire a new paradigm for material synthesis, aiming to design materials that emulate living systems, providing both functionality and self-replication. Colloidal particles endowed with specific interactions provide a particularly promising approach for realizing this vision. Here, we consider a set of colloidal spheres with specific, time-dependent interactions and demonstrate that the interactions can be designed so that clusters of particles create other clusters through templating reactions. Surprisingly, simple templating rules generically give rise to the production of a sea of clusters of various sizes. The sea of clusters grows exponentially in a catalytic cycle. This is a specific realization of Dyson’s notion of an exponentially growing metabolism, emerging naturally from a simple scheme.
Spinal motor neuron protein supersaturation patterns are associated with inclusion body formation in ALS
Authors: Ciryam Prajwal , Lambert-Smith Isabella A. , Bean Daniel M. , Freer Rosie , Cid Fernando , Tartaglia Gian Gaetano , Saunders Darren N. , Wilson Mark R. , Oliver Stephen G. , Morimoto Richard I. , Dobson Christopher M. , Vendruscolo Michele , Favrin Giorgio , Yerbury Justin J.
Published: April 2017

Significance

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder with wide clinical variability and a complex pathogenesis. One of the hallmarks of ALS is the presence of diverse inclusions formed by apparently disparate misfolded proteins, which are unrelated in sequence, structure, function, and localization. Many of these proteins, in addition, are not the usual interaction partners of the primary inclusion-forming ALS-related proteins (SOD1, TDP-43, and FUS). Here, we show that a common feature of these coaggregating proteins is their metastability to aggregation in spinal motor neurons. These results suggest that as protein homeostasis becomes progressively impaired in ALS, supersaturated proteins in an ALS-specific group fail to be maintained in their soluble states, leading to their presence in ALS-associated inclusions.
Serotonin neurons in the dorsal raphe mediate the anticataplectic action of orexin neurons by reducing amygdala activity
Authors: Hasegawa Emi , Maejima Takashi , Yoshida Takayuki , Masseck Olivia A. , Herlitze Stefan , Yoshioka Mitsuhiro , Sakurai Takeshi , Mieda Michihiro
Published: April 2017

Significance

Although the neurodegeneration of orexin (hypocretin)-producing neurons clearly causes the sleep disorder narcolepsy, the precise neural mechanisms by which orexin neurons prevent narcolepsy remain unclear. We previously demonstrated that orexin neurons inhibit cataplexy-like episodes—cataplexy is a cardinal symptom of narcolepsy, characterized by a sudden weakening of muscle tone—via serotonin neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). We thus used optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches to demonstrate that DRN serotonin neurons suppress cataplexy-like episodes by reducing the activity of the amygdala that plays an important role in emotional processing, as consistent with the fact that strong emotions often trigger cataplexy. We therefore propose that the orexin neuron–DRN serotonin neuron–amygdala pathway is a critical circuit for preventing cataplexy.
Life skills, wealth, health, and wellbeing in later life
Authors: Steptoe Andrew , Wardle Jane
Published: April 2017

Significance

Life skills such as persistence, conscientiousness, and control are important in early life. Our findings suggest that they are relevant in later life as well. Higher scores on five life skills (conscientiousness, emotional stability, determination, control, and optimism) were associated both cross-sectionally and longitudinally with economic success, social and subjective wellbeing, and better health in older adults. No single attribute was especially important; rather, effects depended on the accumulation of life skills. Our results suggest that fostering and maintaining these skills in adult life may be relevant to health and wellbeing at older ages.
Endotoxin-induced autocrine ATP signaling inhibits neutrophil chemotaxis through enhancing myosin light chain phosphorylation
Authors: Wang Xu , Qin Weiting , Xu Xiaohan , Xiong Yuyun , Zhang Yisen , Zhang Huafeng , Sun Bingwei
Published: April 2017

Significance

Neutrophil infiltration into infected tissues is a fundamental process of the innate immune response. Here we found that lipopolysaccharide was a potent stop signal for chemotactic neutrophil migration. Knockout of the ATP receptor (P2X1) in neutrophil-like differentiated HL-60 cells recovered neutrophil chemotaxis. Further observations showed that LPS-induced ATP release through connexin-43 hemichannels was responsible for the activation of the P2X1 and the subsequent calcium influx. Increased intracellular calcium stopped neutrophil chemotaxis by activating MLC through the MLCK-dependent pathway. These data identify a previously unknown function of LPS-induced autocrine ATP signaling in inhibiting neutrophil chemotaxis by enhancing MLC phosphorylation, which provides important evidence that stoppage of neutrophil chemotaxis at infectious foci plays a key role for the defense against invading pathogens.
Mechanosensation is evolutionarily tuned to locomotor mechanics
Authors: Aiello Brett R. , Westneat Mark W. , Hale Melina E.
Published: April 2017

Significance

This paper provides an analysis of the correlated evolution of limb biomechanics and mechanosensation. We found that in multiple independent evolutions of stiff fins there was concurrent evolution of increased mechanosensory afferent sensitivity to low amplitude bends, compared with the nerve responses of more flexible fins. These results indicate that sensory systems are tuned to fin mechanical properties, revealing that limb mechanics and the limb’s associated mechanosensory system are a new and important axis of structural and functional variation in locomotor systems. Further, we find high levels of parallelism between swimming behavior, fin shape, mechanics, and mechanosensation across a rich phylogeny of fishes, suggesting that neuromechanical tuning may be a general feature of evolution in neuromechanical systems.
The cryo-EM structure of YjeQ bound to the 30S subunit suggests a fidelity checkpoint function for this protein in ribosome assembly
Authors: Razi Aida , Guarné Alba , Ortega Joaquin
Published: April 2017

Significance

Ribosome assembly in
Escherichia coli
is an extremely efficient process owing to the existence of assembly factors. Recent work indicates that some of these factors aid in the folding of the decoding center. The cryo-EM structure presented here includes an assembly factor testing the decoding fidelity of the mature 30S subunit before the particle is released to the pool of actively translating ribosomes. This finding reveals that in addition to their role as an assembly factor, these factors also may have a checkpoint function in the context of the mature ribosomal subunit. Understanding their specific functions may help identify key steps of the ribosome assembly pathway that will serve as molecular targets for new antibiotics.
Enhanced hyperuniformity from random reorganization
Authors: Hexner Daniel , Chaikin Paul M. , Levine Dov
Published: April 2017

Significance

Particles in sheared suspensions rearrange due to collisions, until they find positions where they no longer collide. At this point, the system stops evolving. Above a critical density/strain, they can no longer find such an absorbing state, and activity never ceases. At this critical point, the systems are hyperuniform, with number fluctuations in a volume of size

ℓ
d

scaling as

<

δ

N
2

>

∼

ℓ
λ

,

λ

<
d

, slower than random (diffusive), where

<

δ

N
2

>

∼

ℓ
d

. Does hyperuniformity survive noise and thermal diffusion? We find that noise enhances the hyperuniformity toward the most uniform,

<

δ

N
2

>

∼

ℓ

d
−
1

near that of crystals. Practically, this provides a simple means of fabricating noncrystalline materials of arbitrary density and high homogeneity.
Dual optical control and mechanistic insights into photoswitchable group II and III metabotropic glutamate receptors
Authors: Levitz Joshua , Broichhagen Johannes , Leippe Philipp , Konrad David , Trauner Dirk , Isacoff Ehud Y.
Published: April 2017

Significance

The ability to manipulate signaling proteins with high spatiotemporal and genetic precision holds great promise for understanding the role of specific molecules in physiology and disease. In this study, we have provided mechanistic characterization of an optogenetic method for the control of G protein-coupled metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) using tethered photoswitches. This method provides substantial advantages, including improved labeling efficiency, photoswitch efficacy, and specificity. We harness this information to improve photoswitch efficacy, expand the approach throughout the mGluR family, thereby vastly expanding the toolbox, and design orthogonal photoswitches that permit dual optical control of multiple receptors. The engineering principles and approaches defined in this study should facilitate the extension of orthogonal photopharmacology to other signaling proteins.
Orexin-driven GAD65 network of the lateral hypothalamus sets physical activity in mice
Authors: Kosse Christin , Schöne Cornelia , Bracey Edward , Burdakov Denis
Published: April 2017

Significance

A century ago, it was noted that damage to the lateral hypothalamic (LH) brain area caused people to be motionless most of the time. Therefore, it is thought that this brain area emits essential signals for promoting physical activity. However, it remained a mystery what these signals are. Using newly developed genetic and deep-brain recording methods, we found that, unexpectedly, a critical signal for movement comes from a subset of LH cells that are molecularly distinct from neurons previously implicated in locomotion control. These movement-promoting cells were switched on by the local peptide orexin, a key signal of stress and hunger. These findings shed new light on deep-brain signals that maintain healthy levels of physical activity.
Enterococcus faecalisbacteriocin EntV inhibits hyphal morphogenesis, biofilm formation, and virulence ofCandida albicans
Authors: Graham Carrie E. , Cruz Melissa R. , Garsin Danielle A. , Lorenz Michael C.
Published: April 2017

Significance

Hospitalized patients are susceptible to serious infections that are rarely encountered by healthy people. Two of the most problematic causes areEnterococcus faecalisandCandida albicans, a bacterium and fungus, respectively. Both are members of our normal microbial communities, but cause significant mortality in immunocompromised individuals. The formation of biofilms—microbial communities that grow on biotic or artificial surfaces—is a common feature of these infections and presents a formidable barrier to their treatment. We show here thatE. faecalisproduces a small protein that is a potent inhibitor of the ability ofC. albicansto form biofilms and reduces fungal virulence in several models, raising the possibility that it might be developed as an antifungal agent.
Flicr
, a long noncoding RNA, modulates Foxp3 expression and autoimmunity
Authors: Zemmour David , Pratama Alvin , Loughhead Scott M. , Mathis Diane , Benoist Christophe
Published: April 2017

Significance

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are an essential population of immunoregulatory cells that play a central role in immune tolerance and the control of autoimmune disease, infections, and cancer. The transcription factor FoxP3 is the central orchestrator of Treg differentiation, stability, and function. Here we report the discovery of the noncoding RNA,
Flicr
, and its fine-tuning of FoxP3 expression through modification of chromatin accessibility, with marked consequences on the progression of autoimmune diabetes. Our findings add an important piece to the puzzle of Treg differentiation and stability, and how their function adapts to physiological circumstances.
Unusual active site location and catalytic apparatus in a glycoside hydrolase family
Authors: Munoz-Munoz Jose , Cartmell Alan , Terrapon Nicolas , Henrissat Bernard , Gilbert Harry J.
Published: April 2017

Significance

The location of the active site of enzymes with the same fold is invariably conserved. The β-propeller fold exemplifies this feature with all functions located at what is termed their anterior surface. Herein, however, we show that the active site of a glycoside hydrolase that adopts the β-propeller fold is located to the posterior surface of the α-
l
-rhamnosidase. The enzyme also displays a catalytic apparatus that utilizes a single histidine instead of the canonical pair of carboxylate residues deployed by the vast majority of glycoside hydrolases. The capacity to engineer catalytic functionality into the posterior surface of other family members provides insight into the evolution of this enzyme family.