bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mission ImPOxable – or the unknown utilization of non-toxic poly(2-oxazoline)s as cryoprotectants and surfactants at the same time
Authors: Leiske Meike N. , Trützschler Anne-Kristin , Armoneit Sabine , Sungur Pelin , Hoeppener Stephanie , Lehmann Marc , Traeger Anja , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: November 2017

Polymeric nanoparticles are produced using hydrophilic poly(2-oxazoline)s (P(Ox)s) as particle stabilizers during preparation, purification and lyophilization as an all-in-one system.
CaF2:Eu films shine novel blue, white or red luminescence though adjustment of the valence state of Eu ions using the electro-deposition method
Authors: Jia Hong , Chen Zhi , Liu Zhongli , Zhao Jianguo , Ding Chaoliang , Yang Haifeng , Zhang Weiying , Liu Xiaofeng , Qiu Jianrong
Published: November 2017

Novel blue, white or red CaF2:Eu films obtained though adjustment of the valence state of Eu ions using the electro-deposition method at room temperature.
Unusual two-step sequential reversible phase transitions with coexisting switchable nonlinear optical and dielectric behaviors in [(CH3)3NCH2Cl]2[ZnCl4]
Authors: Liao Wei-Qiang , Gao Ji-Xing , Hua Xiu-Ni , Chen Xiao-Gang , Lu Yang
Published: November 2017

[(CH3)3NCH2Cl]2[ZnCl4] is a novel switchable nonlinear optical and switchable dielectric compound, which undergoes two reversible solid state phase transitions.
Correlations of EZH2 and SMYD3 gene polymorphisms with breast cancer susceptibility and prognosis
Authors: Ma Shao-Jun , Liu Yan-Mei , Zhang Yue-Lang , Chen Ming-Wei , Cao Wei
Published: November 2017

The aim of the present study was to investigate the correlation of enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and SET and MYND domain containing 3 (SMYD3) gene polymorphisms with breast cancer susceptibility and prognosis. A total of 712 patients with breast cancer and 783 healthy individuals were selected. Normal breast epithelial cells MCF-10A and breast cancer cells MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, T47D, and Bcap-37 were cultured. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism method was applied for genotyping. Reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting were used to examine EZH2 and SMYD3 expression in breast cancer tissues and cells. The risk factors and prognostic factors for breast cancer were estimated. The C allele of EZH2 rs12670401 (odds ratio (OR) =1.255, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.085–1.452), T allele of EZH2 rs6464926 (OR =1.240, 95% CI: 1.071–1.435), and three alleles of SMYD3 variable number of tandem repeats (VNTRs) (OR =1.305, 95% CI: 1.097–1.552) could increase susceptibility to breast cancer. Combined genotypes of EZH2 rs12670401 (TC + CC) and EZH2 rs6464926 (CT + TT) were associated with breast cancer susceptibility. Breast cancer tissues had higher EZH2 and SMYD3 expression. EZH2 rs12670401, EZH2 rs6464926, age of menarche, and menopausal status were associated with breast cancer susceptibility. Patients with TT genotype of EZH2 rs12670401 or with CC genotype of EZH2 rs6464926 had higher overall survival (OS). EZH2 rs12670401, EZH2 rs6464926, and clinical staging were independent prognostic factors for breast cancer. SMYD3 VNTR polymorphism exhibited no association with susceptibility and prognosis. EZH2 rs12670401 and rs6464926 polymorphisms, EZH2 and SMYD3 expression, clinical staging, lymph node metastasis, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) status, and metastasis may be correlated with breast cancer susceptibility and prognosis.
Protective effect of HTK solution on postoperative pulmonary function in infants with CHD and PAH
Authors: Li Jindong , Wu Yanhong , Tian Xudong , Wang Jiantang , Dong Mingfeng , Wang Anbiao , Ma Shengjun
Published: November 2017

Objective: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of pulmonary arterial perfusion (PAP) with Histidine–tryptophan–ketoglutarate (HTK) on lung protection in infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Methods: Fifty infant patients with CHD and PAH at our hospital from January, 2016 to February, 2017 were randomly divided into control group and HTK group. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), malondialdehyde (MDA), and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in serum were detected using ELISA Kit. Oxygen index (OI) and respiratory index (RI) were calculated at each time point. The time of postoperative mechanical ventilation and ICU stay was counted, and the right lower lung tissues in patients were taken for pathological examination.

Results: Compared with preanesthesia, the levels of IL-6, MDA, and ET-1 in the two groups were significantly increased after CPB, and their levels in HTK group were significantly lower than that in control group. Moreover, OI in control group decreased markedly and RI in control group increased significantly after CPB. Compared with control group, the postoperative mechanical ventilation time, postoperative ICU stay, and total hospital stay in HTK group were markedly short. In addition, inflammatory cells infiltration decreased and pulmonary interstitial showed mild edema in HTK group.

Conclusion: PAP with HTK could effectively reduce CPB-induced lung injury and improve lung function.
Lack of specificity of antibodies raised against CLN3, the lysosomal/endosomal transmembrane protein mutated in juvenile Batten disease
Authors: Nelson Tarah , Pearce David A. , Kovács Attila D.
Published: November 2017

Juvenile CLN3 (Batten) disease, a fatal, childhood neurodegenerative disorder, results from mutations in the CLN3 gene encoding a lysosomal/endosomal transmembrane protein. The exact physiological function of CLN3 is still unknown and it is unclear how CLN3 mutations lead to selective neurodegeneration. To study the tissue expression and subcellular localization of the CLN3 protein, a number of anti-CLN3 antibodies have been generated using either the whole CLN3 protein or short peptides from CLN3 for immunization. The specificity of these antibodies, however, has never been tested properly. Using immunoblot experiments, we show that commercially available or researcher-generated anti-CLN3 antibodies lack specificity: they detect the same protein bands in wild-type (WT) and Cln3−/− mouse brain and kidney extracts prepared with different detergents, in membrane proteins isolated from the cerebellum, cerebral hemisphere and kidney of WT and Cln3−/− mice, in cell extracts of WT and Cln3−/− mouse embryonic fibroblast cultures, and in lysates of BHK cells lacking or overexpressing human CLN3. Protein BLAST searches with sequences from peptides used to generate anti-CLN3 antibodies identified short motifs present in a number of different mouse and human proteins, providing a plausible explanation for the lack of specificity of anti-CLN3 antibodies. Our data provide evidence that immunization against a transmembrane protein with low to medium expression level does not necessarily generate specific antibodies. Because of the possible cross-reactivity to other proteins, the specificity of an antibody should always be checked using tissue samples from an appropriate knock-out animal or using knock-out cells.
Power allocation based on beamforming in cooperative cognitive radio networks with arbitrary number of secondary users
Authors: Askari Mohsen , Vakili Vahid Tabataba
Published: November 2017

In this study, a new beamforming and power allocation method for cooperative cognitive radio (CR) networks is proposed. The proposed method can be deployed in systems with one primary user (PU) and arbitrary number of secondary users (SUs). By using transmit beamforming in both PU and SUs, multiple transmission with limited interference effect in the receivers can be attained. SUs get permission to use the licenced spectrum in the price of enhancing the data rate of the PU. The problem investigated in this study is to maximise the weighted sum rate in the multiple‐input single‐output (MISO) cooperative CR networks. Transmit powers and interference temperature in the receivers are the constraints that must be satisfied. By the virtue of cooperation with SUs, data rate of the PU is another constraint that must not be less than a predefined value. Transmit/receive duality in MISO and single‐input multiple‐output systems are used to obtain the beamforming weights in the transmit antennas. By defining a specific optimisation problem, power portion of each SU in cooperative transmission will be found in the way that constraint on the data rate of the PU is fulfilled. Simulation results show that by using the cooperative method presented in this study, data rate of the PU is enhanced.
Non‐linear transceiver design for multiple‐input–multiple‐output interference channel with statistical channel state information error
Authors: Geng Xuan , An Bowen , Li Conggai , Liu Feng
Published: November 2017

This study focuses on robust Tomlinson–Harashima precoding transceiver design for multi‐cell multiple‐input–multiple‐output interference channel with statistical channel state information error. The objective is formulated to minimise the maximum per‐user mean square error (MSE) with per‐transmitter power constraint. Since the problem is not jointly convex, an approximated method is proposed. The authors optimise the receiver matrix to be minimum MSE form as well as derive the optimisation problems of transmitter matrix and feedback matrix to be second‐order cone programming, respectively. By use of the results, the three matrices are updated iteratively. The convergence of the proposed method is also proved. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme outperforms the robust linear transceiver in both MSE and bit error ratio.
Performance analysis of multi‐user scheduling in a spectrum sharing with OSTBC under correlated antennas in a cognitive radio system
Authors: Torabi Mohammad , Haccoun David
Published: November 2017

This study presents a performance analysis for a cognitive radio network with multi‐user scheduling in which a primary user can share its licenced spectrum with several secondary users (SUs), each employing Alamouti orthogonal space‐time block coding (OSTBC) with spatially correlated antennas over Rayleigh fading channels. Closed‐form formulae are obtained for the cumulative density function of the signal‐to‐noise‐ratio of SUs with multi‐user scheduling under correlated antennas. Closed‐form mathematical expressions are then derived for three important system performance metrics: the average channel capacity, outage probability, and the average bit error rate of the system. From the numerical results obtained from the derived mathematical expressions, the system performances with different parameters are studied, evaluated and compared showing the effects of spatial correlation on the performance of the system. It is observed that spatially correlated antennas can improve the average channel capacity of the cognitive radio system with user scheduling.
RTCP: reliable topology construction protocol of bluetooth hybrid single‐hop and multi‐hop networks
Authors: Yu Chih‐Min
Published: November 2017

In this work, a reliable topology construction protocol (RTCP) called Dual‐Ring Tree scatternet with a self‐routing algorithm is proposed for hybrid single‐hop/multi‐hop situations. To benefit from the advantages of the hybrid scenarios, a dual‐ring subnet is presented as a single‐hop solution for one dense area, while a tree‐shaped subnet is designed as a multi‐hop solution for other sparse areas. To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first time that such an algorithm has been presented to deal with the hybrid scenarios. Since the dual‐ring structure serves as the core network design, the resulting architecture demonstrates better fault tolerance capability than the conventional single ring networks do. In addition, a self‐routing protocol is introduced to efficiently deliver packets over the scatternet. Simulation results suggest that the RTCP scheme outperforms conventional Bluetooth hybrid ring tree (BlueHRT) and Bluetree methods in terms of routing performance and network survivability for Bluetooth ad hoc networks.
Blockchain‐based efficient privacy preserving and data sharing scheme of content‐centric network in 5G
Authors: Fan Kai , Ren Yanhui , Wang Yue , Li Hui , Yang Yingtang
Published: November 2017

Now, the authors’ life is full of vast amount of information, the era of information has arrived. So the content‐centric networks face severe challenges in dealing with a huge range of content requests, bringing protection and sharing concerns of the content. How to protect information in the network efficiently and securely for the upcoming 5G era has become a problem. The authors propose a scheme based on a blockchain to solve the privacy issues in content‐centric mobile networks for 5G. The authors implement the mutual trust between content providers and users. Besides, the openness and tamper‐resistant of the blockchain ledger ensure the access control and privacy of the provider. With the help of a miner, selected from users, the authors can maintain the public ledger expediently. Also, in return, the authors share the interesting data with low overhead, network delay and congestion, and then achieve green communication.
Spectral clustering for designing robust and reliable multi‐MG smart distribution systems
Authors: Hasanvand Saeed , Nayeripour Majid , Arefifar Seyed Ali , Fallahzadeh‐Abarghouei Hossein
Published: November 2017

Reliability has become a key design aspect in modern energy system's planning. Owing to the higher fault rate in power distribution systems (PDSs), comparing with generation and transmission systems, considering reliability in PDSs’ planning is very crucial. This study presents a novel robust approach to cluster the existing PDSs with intermittent distributed generators (DGs) into a set of reliable microgrids (MGs). For this purpose, first, a new reliability index is defined to evaluate the reliability of MGs in terms of real and reactive power adequacy as well as frequency and duration of interruptions. Then, the k ‐means algorithm, based on weighted graph partitioning method, is proposed for changing the system into a multi‐MG system. Furthermore, a modified version of particle swarm optimisation approach is proposed and the Silhouette technique is used to determine the optimal location and sizes of DGs as well as the number of MGs. The design and sensitivity analysis performed by the proposed multi‐objective optimisation algorithm on the well known IEEE 69‐bus distribution system show the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithms for constructing reliable MGs in modern PDSs.
Efficient fingerprint matching using GPU
Authors: Ghafoor Mubeen , Iqbal Shahzaib , Tariq Syed Ali , Taj Imtiaz A. , Jafri Noman M.
Published: November 2017

Graphical processing unit (GPU) has proven a beneficial tool in handling computationally intensive algorithms, by introducing massive parallelism in the calculations. In this study, an effective and low‐cost fingerprint identification (FI) solution is proposed that can exploit the parallel computational power of GPU proficiently. It is achieved by mapping a generalised minutia neighbour‐based novel encoding and matching algorithm on low‐cost GPU technology. The proposed solution achieves high accuracy in comparison with two open source matchers and it is shown to be scalable by comparing matching performance on different GPUs. The proposed GPU implementation employs multithreading and loop unrolling, which minimises the use of nested loops and avoids sequential matching of encoded minutia features. After a thorough and careful designing of data structures, memory transfers and computations, a GPU‐based fingerprint matching system is developed. It achieves on average 50,196 fingerprint matches per second on a single GPU. As compared to the sequential central processing unit implementation, the proposed system achieves a speed up of around 92 times, while maintaining the accuracy. The proposed system with matcher integrated on GPU can be considered as a good, low‐cost, robust and efficient solution for large‐scale applications of automated FI systems.
Defining high-resolution dredge fishing grounds with Automatic Identification System (AIS) data
Authors: Le Guyader Damien , Ray Cyril , Gourmelon Françoise , Brosset David
Published: November 2017

High resolution estimates of bottom towed fishing gears are needed to provide relevant information for natural resource management, impact assessment and maritime spatial planning. The use of satellite-based vessel monitoring system (VMS) data is constrained by data access restrictions as well as rather coarse data resolution. This study focuses on mapping dredge gear fishing grounds using fishing effort estimates at the métier level based on automatic identification system (AIS) data. The performance of the approach was evaluated in terms of correct discrimination between fishing and non-fishing activities for known fishing positions as well as appropriate error propagation. The test was conducted in the Bay of Brest (France) in partnership with a committee of local fishers. The results identified dredge fishing grounds for great scallop (Pecten maximus) in the western part of the Bay of Brest and provided high-resolution information for scientists and local decision makers on the spatial and temporal seasonal variability of fishing effort. The proposed method is semi-automatic and generic making it suitable for other applications.
Intuitionistic fuzzy DEA/AR and its application to flexible manufacturing systems
Authors: Singh Sanjeet
Published: November 2017

The concept of assurance region (AR) was proposed in Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) literature to restrict the ratio of any two weights within a given lower and upper bounds so as to overcome the difficulty of ignoring or relying too much on any of the input or output while calculating the efficiency. Further, AR approach was extended to handle fuzzy input/output data. But, available information is not always sufficient to define the impreciseness in the input/output data using classical fuzzy sets. Intuitionistic Fuzzy Set (IFS) is a generalized fuzzy set to characterize the impreciseness by taking into account degree of hesitation also. In this paper, intuitionistic fuzzy DEA/AR approach has been proposed to evaluate the efficiency where input/output data are represented as intuitionistic fuzzy. Based on the expected value approach, classical cross efficiency has also been generalized to rank the DMUs for the case of intuitionistic fuzzy data. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first attempt to propose assurance region approach (DEA/AR) in DEA with intuitionistic fuzzy input/output data. This approach is useful for the experts and decision makers when they are hesitant about defining the degree of membership/non-membership of fuzzy data. Results have been illustrated and validated using a case of flexible manufacturing systems (FMS).
A probabilistic method for cost minimization in a day-ahead electricity market considering wind power uncertainties
Authors: Dehghani H. , Faramarzi D. , Vahidi B. , Saeidi M.
Published: November 2017

During recent decades, using wind power as one of the most substantial renewable energy sources has been vastly intensified in power systems. Increasing wind power penetration in the power grid can have both detrimental and beneficial effects. Due to the uncertain nature of wind power, the system operator is faced with many challenges to make proper decisions for the electricity market. In this paper, a probabilistic method is proposed which not only effectively manages wind power sources along with other producers, but also takes the uncertain behavior of wind power in defined intervals into account. Using wind farm information in each hour, a new approach for calculating the probability density function (PDF) in uncertainty bounds is presented. By utilizing the calculated PDF two objective functions are proposed for minimizing the total expected cost during 24 h without and with considering consumers payments. The proposed objective functions have been minimized through a two-level optimization method using three different heuristic algorithms (Teaching-Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO), Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization and Gravitational Search Algorithm (PSO-GSA), and Ant Lion Optimization (ALO)) on an 8-bus sample transmission network. The results show the total expected cost has been decreased up to 20% in some scenarios. In addition, the proposed method can satisfy consumers by keeping their payments close to the lowest amount according to the different scenarios.
Technique for insulated and non-insulated metal liner X-pinch radiography on a 1 MA pulsed power machine
Authors: Atoyan L. , Shelkovenko T. A. , Pikuz S. A. , Hammer D. A. , Byvank T. , Greenly J. B. , Potter W. M.
Published: November 2017

Broadband, high resolution X-pinch radiography has been demonstrated as a method to view the instability induced small scale structure that develops in near solid density regions of both insulated and non-insulated cylindrical metallic liners. In experiments carried out on a 1-1.2 MA 100-200 ns rise time pulsed power generator, μm scale features were imaged in initially 16 μm thick Al foil cylindrical liners. Better resolution and contrast were obtained using an X-ray sensitive film than with image plate detectors because of the properties of the X-pinch X-ray source. We also discuss configuration variations that were made to the simple cylindrical liner geometry that appeared to maintain validity of the small-scale structure measurements while improving measurement quality.
The effects of Soret and Dufour, chemical reaction, Hall and ion currents on magnetized micropolar flow through co-rotating cylinders
Authors: Gajjela Nagaraju , Matta Anjanna , Kaladhar K.
Published: November 2017

The influence of cross diffusions, Hall and Ion slip of a dissipative magnetized micropolar fluid flow through an infinite concentric rotating vertical cylinders were investigated in addition to the first order chemical reaction. Cylinders are taken into account for Isothermal (constant temperature wall condition) and mixed gradient condition at inner cylinder, while convection cooling and constant wall concentration condition is taken at outer cylinder. The governing equations in cylindrical polar coordinates are coupled ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and are solved numerically with help of Shooting method with fourth order Runge Kutta method. A parametric study illustrating the influence of the emerging parameters on flow, heat and mass transfer components as well as on Skin Friction, Nusselt number and Sherwood number through graphical illustrations.
A magneto-optical study on magnetic flux expulsion and pinning in high-purity niobium
Authors: Köszegi J. , Kugeler O. , Abou-Ras D. , Knobloch J. , Schäfer R.
Published: November 2017

The magnetic flux trapped inside high-purity niobium samples after field cooling was investigated by indirect magneto-optical imaging using an indicator film. The detected magnetic field was compared with the field present during the phase transition, and the distribution of trapped flux was investigated. The measurements were performed on an untreated sample cut from an ingot and a sample that was heated at 1400 °C for 4 h. For untreated niobium, the trapped flux was found to be homogeneously distributed and almost all applied field during phase transition was trapped. In contrast, the heat treated niobium showed significantly reduced trapping. Neither did the grain boundaries play a major role as pinning centers nor did the crystal orientation influence the amount of trapped flux significantly, which is contrary to recent assumptions. However, niobium hydrides, which formed during the cool-down-stage to cryogenic temperatures, were found to enhance trapping considerably.
Moving towards the magnetoelectric graphene transistor
Authors: Cao Shi , Xiao Zhiyong , Kwan Chun-Pui , Zhang Kai , Bird Jonathan P. , Wang Lu , Mei Wai-Ning , Hong Xia , Dowben P. A.
Published: November 2017

The interfacial charge transfer between mechanically exfoliated few-layer graphene and Cr2O3 (0001) surfaces has been investigated. Electrostatic force microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy studies point to hole doping of few-layer graphene, with up to a 150 meV shift in the Fermi level, an aspect that is confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Density functional theory calculations furthermore confirm the p-type nature of the graphene/chromia interface and suggest that the chromia is able to induce a significant carrier spin polarization in the graphene layer. A large magnetoelectrically controlled magneto-resistance can therefore be anticipated in transistor structures based on this system, a finding important for developing graphene-based spintronic applications.
Standoff high energy laser induced oxidation spectroscopy (HELIOS)
Authors: Daigle J.-F. , Pudo D. , Théberge F.
Published: November 2017

High Energy Lasers (HELs) used for defense applications require operational distances ranging from few hundred meters to several kilometers. As the distance increases, the incident beam properties and, consequently, the anticipated effect delivered to the sample become less predictable. Therefore, the direct observation of the event induced by the laser can become an asset. In this paper, we propose a novel spectroscopic method that analyses in real time the spectral components present in the flames produced during the interaction of a HEL with a metallic piece at a long distance. This method was used on aluminum and carbon steel samples placed 200 m away from the laser system. It was discovered that the aluminum and iron oxides created as a by-product of the HEL reaction with the samples emitted clear fingerprint signatures that could be detected remotely using a spectroscopic receiver placed beside the HEL beam director. The real-time assessment of the laser-induced effect can be achieved by monitoring the temporal evolution of the oxide signatures, hence providing information to the operator about the reaction and the nature of the sample illuminated.
Mg shallow doping effects on the ac magnetic self-heating characteristics of γ-Fe2O3 superparamagnetic nanoparticles for highly efficient hyperthermia
Authors: Jang Jung-tak , Bae Seongtae
Published: November 2017

The effects of Mg doping on the magnetic and AC self-heating temperature rising characteristics of γ-Fe2O3 superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SPNPs) were investigated for hyperthermia applications in biomedicine. The doping concentration of nonmagnetic Mg2+ cation was systematically controlled from 0 to 0.15 at. % in Mgx-γFe2O3 SPNPs during chemically and thermally modified one-pot thermal decomposition synthesis under bubbling O2/Ar gas mixture. It was empirically observed that the saturation magnetization (Ms) and the out-of-phase magnetic susceptibility (χm″) of Mgx-γFe2O3 SPNPs were increased by increasing the Mg2+ cation doping concentration from 0.05 to 0.13 at. %. Correspondingly, the AC magnetically induced self-heating temperature (Tac,max) in solid state and the intrinsic loss power in water were increased up to 184 °C and 14.2 nH m2 kg−1 (Mgx-γFe2O3, x = 0.13), respectively, at the biologically and physiologically safe range of AC magnetic field (Happl × fappl = 1.2 × 109 A m−1 s−1). All the chemically and physically analyzed results confirmed that the dramatically improved AC magnetic induction heating characteristics and the magnetic properties of Mgx-γFe2O3 SPNPs (x = 0.13) are primarily due to the significantly enhanced magnetic susceptibility (particularly, χm″) and the improved AC/DC magnetic softness (lower AC/DC magnetic anisotropy) resulting from the systematically controlled nonmagnetic Mg2+ cation concentrations and distributions (occupation ratio) in the Fe vacancy sites of γ-Fe2O3 (approximately 12% vacancy), instead of typically well-known Fe3O4 (no vacancy) SPNPs. The cell viability and biocompatibility with U87 MG cell lines demonstrated that Mgx-γFe2O3 SPNPs (x = 0.13) has promising bio-feasibility for hyperthermia agent applications.
In-situ study of athermal reversible photocrystallization in a chalcogenide glass
Authors: Benekou Vasiliki , Strizik Lukas , Wagner Tomas , Yannopoulos Spyros N. , Greer A. Lindsay , Orava Jiri
Published: November 2017

The time-resolved Raman measurements reveal a three-stage mechanism of the photostructural changes in Ge25.0Ga9.5Sb0.5S65.0 (containing 0.5 at. % of Er3+) glass under continuous-above-bandgap illumination. These changes are reversible and effectively athermal, in that the local temperature rises to about 60% of the glass-transition temperature and the phase transitions take place in the glass/crystal and not in an equilibrium liquid. In the early stages of illumination, the glassy-network dimensionality changes from a predominantly 3-D to a mixture of 2-D/1-D represented by an increase in the fraction of edge-sharing tetrahedra and the emergence of homonuclear (semi)metallic bonds. This incubation period of the structural rearrangements, weakly thermally activated with an energy of ∼0.16 eV, facilitates a reversible photocrystallization. The photocrystallization rate in the glass is comparable to that achieved by thermal crystallization from supercooled liquid at large supercooling. Almost complete re-amorphization can be achieved in about an hour by reducing the incident laser-power density by a factor of ten. Glass-ceramic composites—with varying glass-to-crystal fraction—can be obtained by ceasing the illumination during re-amorphization. Microstructural imaging reveals photoinduced mass transport and the formation of columnar-porous structures. This shows the potential for a bond-specific engineering of glassy structures for photonic applications with a spatial resolution unachievable by thermal annealing.
Using quasi two-dimensional systems to understand large-scale vortical structures and dynamics
Authors: Hendricks-Sturrup Rachele
Published: November 2017

An experimental physicist, surveying the research, describes how quasi 2D flows on curved, thin liquid films provide insight into the macroscopic properties of turbulent flows.
The immunopeptidomic landscape of ovarian carcinomas
Authors: Schuster Heiko , Peper Janet K. , Bösmüller Hans-Christian , Röhle Kevin , Backert Linus , Bilich Tatjana , Ney Britta , Löffler Markus W. , Kowalewski Daniel J. , Trautwein Nico , Rabsteyn Armin , Engler Tobias , Braun Sabine , Haen Sebastian P. , Walz Juliane S. , Schmid-Horch Barbara , Brucker Sara Y. , Wallwiener Diethelm , Kohlbacher Oliver , Fend Falko , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Stevanović Stefan , Staebler Annette , Wagner Philipp
Published: November 2017

Significance

Despite the revolution in cancer therapy initiated by checkpoint inhibitors, durable clinical responses remain sporadic in many types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. Understanding which antigens are essentially presented by tumor cells and further able to be recognized by T cells provides a major step toward novel effective targeted immunotherapies. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed the immunopeptidomic landscape of ovarian carcinoma and compared it to variety of benign sources to identify antigens exclusively presented on tumor cells. With personalized therapies moving into the focus of clinical cancer therapy, we further present insights on how gene-expression analysis and immunohistochemistry can support antigen selection for individualized immunotherapy.
Effect of gaseous carbon dioxide on grain refinement in Mg-8Al alloy
Authors: Liu Yan , You Guoqiang , Gao Fan , Long Siyuan , Liu Qing , Shao Jun , Ao Sihai , Li Xiangguang
Published: November 2017

A Mg-Al alloy was treated with gaseous carbon dioxide (CO2) and a refining process, and the grain refinement at each stage was investigated. The results indicated that CO2 and the subsequent refining process affect the grain refinement in the Mg-Al alloy. Moreover, the average grain size decreased from 254 to 89 µm, and the microhardness increased from 59.7 to 66.0 HV upon the addition of 9 litres of CO2. Increasing the time of the subsequent refining process to 30 min further decreased the grain size and increased the microhardness. Based on scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses, the observed Al4C3 particles, which are attributed to the inoculation of CO2, are responsible for the grain refinement.

This paper is part of a thematic issue on Light Alloys.
Non-equilibrium effects on solid transition of solidification microstructure of deeply undercooled alloys
Authors: Hou Hua , Li Yuxing , Xu Xiaolong , Zhao Yuhong , Liu Feng
Published: November 2017

Integrated effects of undercooling and solute drag on recrystallisation mechanism of rapid solidification microstructure were investigated in highly undercooled Ni-Cu alloys. The equiaxed grained microstructures were prepared by fluxing method and subsequent quenching. Annealing the microstructures of the as-quenched alloys, substantial recrystallisation growth was observed. Applying solute trapping model of undercooled melt and solute drag model of solid-state transformation, it can be inferred that the microstructural evolution was dominated by nucleation and growth of recrystallisation process which is strongly dependent on the initial undercooling of the alloy melt and the solute drag force of the solid-state transition process.
Application of Bacillus sp. TAT105 to reduce ammonia emissions during pilot-scale composting of swine manure
Authors: Kuroda Kazutaka , Tanaka Akihiro , Furuhashi Kenich , Nakasaki Kiyohiko
Published: November 2017

Thermophilic ammonium-tolerant bacterium Bacillus sp. TAT105 grows and reduces ammonia (NH3) emissions by assimilating ammonium nitrogen during composting of swine feces. To evaluate the efficacy of a biological additive containing TAT105 at reducing NH3 emissions, composting tests of swine manure on a pilot scale (1.8 m3) were conducted. In the TAT105-added treatment, NH3 emissions and nitrogen loss were lower than those in the control treatment without TAT105. No significant difference was detected in losses in the weight and volatile solids between the treatments. Concentration of thermophilic ammonium-tolerant bacteria in the compost increased in both treatments at the initial stage of composting. In the TAT105-added treatment, bacterial concentration reached ~109 colony-forming units per gram of dry matter, several-fold higher than that in the control and stayed at the same level until the end. These results suggest that TAT105 grows during composting and reduces NH3 emissions in TAT105-added treatment.
Preparation and biological activities of anti-HER2 monoclonal antibodies with fully core-fucosylated homogeneous bi-antennary complex-type glycans
Authors: Tsukimura Wataru , Kurogochi Masaki , Mori Masako , Osumi Kenji , Matsuda Akio , Takegawa Kaoru , Furukawa Kiyoshi , Shirai Takashi
Published: November 2017

Recently, the absence of a core-fucose residue in the N-glycan has been implicated to be important for enhancing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity of immunoglobulin G monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Here, we first prepared anti-HER2 mAbs having two core-fucosylated N-glycan chains with the single G2F, G1aF, G1bF, or G0F structure, together with those having two N-glycan chains with a single non-core-fucosylated corresponding structure for comparison, and determined their biological activities. Dissociation constants of mAbs with core-fucosylated N-glycans bound to recombinant Fcγ-receptor type IIIa variant were 10 times higher than those with the non-core-fucosylated N-glycans, regardless of core glycan structures. mAbs with the core-fucosylated N-glycans had markedly reduced ADCC activities, while those with the non-core-fucosylated N-glycans had high activities. These results indicate that the presence of a core-fucose residue in the N-glycan suppresses the binding to the Fc-receptor and the induction of ADCC of anti-HER2 mAbs.
Ubiquitination of the PI3-kinase VPS-34 promotes VPS-34 stability and phagosome maturation
Authors: Liu Jinchao , Li Meijiao , Li Lin , Chen She , Wang Xiaochen
Published: November 2017

Apoptotic cells generated by programmed cell death are engulfed by phagocytes and enclosed within membrane-bound phagosomes. Maturation of apoptotic cell–containing phagosomes leads to formation of phagolysosomes where cell corpses are degraded. The class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) VPS-34 coordinates with PIKI-1, a class II PI3-kinase, to produce PtdIns3P on phagosomes, thus promoting phagosome closure and maturation. Here, we identified UBC-13, an E2 ubiquitin–conjugating enzyme that functions in the same pathway with VPS-34 but in parallel to PIKI-1 to regulate PtdIns3P generation on phagosomes. Loss of ubc-13 affects early steps of phagosome maturation, causing accumulation of cell corpses. We found that UBC-13 functions with UEV-1, a noncatalytic E2 variant, and CHN-1, a U-box–containing E3 ubiquitin ligase, to catalyze K63-linked poly-ubiquitination on VPS-34 both in vitro and in Caenorhabditis elegans. Loss of ubc-13, uev-1, or chn-1 disrupts ubiquitin modification of VPS-34 and causes significantly reduced VPS-34 protein levels. Our data suggest that K63-linked ubiquitin modification serves as a general mechanism to modulate VPS-34 stability in multiple processes.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 and Receptor Contribute Genetic Susceptibility to Hypertension in a Han Chinese Population
Authors: Yao Yingshui , Zhu Lijun , Fang Zhengmei , Yang Song , Chen Yanchun , Jin Yuelong , Zhao Xianghai , Zhao Hailong , Zhuang Qian , Chen Xiaotian , Shen Chong
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) have been suggested to mediate the pathophysiological response to elevated blood pressure. This study aims to evaluate the association of IGF-1 and IGF-1R with hypertension.

METHODS

Overall, 2,012 hypertensive cases and 2,210 controls were included in a case–control study, and 10 tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tagSNPs) were selected. The association of these SNPs with hypertension was further evaluated in a follow-up analysis and in an adolescent population.

RESULTS

A case–control study indicated that rs1815009 and rs2654981 in IGF-1R were significantly associated with hypertension, with odds ratios of 0.89 (P = 0.009) and 1.19 (P = 0.034), respectively, after adjusting for covariates. Stratification analyses revealed significant associations with hypertension (P < 0.05) for rs35767 in normal weight and obese populations; for rs2229765 in individuals <55 years of age and in overweight and nondrinking populations; and for rs2002880 in overweight and drinking populations. In a follow-up study, rs13379905 in IGF-1R was associated with hypertension incidence (hazard ratio, HR = 1.24, P = 0.042). This association was more significant in individuals with a hypertensive family history (HR = 2.10, P = 0.001). The association of rs13379905 with prehypertension and hypertension was further replicated in adolescent males (P = 0.005). Significant associations with hypertension incidence (P < 0.05) were observed for rs6219 in individuals <55 years of age and among those with obesity and a hypertensive family history as well as rs2002880 in obese individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that IGF-1R may contribute to the genetic susceptibility to hypertension, with BMI, age, and family history of hypertension all potentially modulating the genetic effects of IGF-1 on hypertension.
The heart regulates the endocrine response to heart failure: cardiac contribution to circulating neprilysin
Authors: Arrigo Mattia , Vodovar Nicolas , Nougué Hélène , Sadoune Malha , Pemberton Chris J , Ballan Pamela , Ludes Pierre-Olivier , Gendron Nicolas , Carpentier Alain , Cholley Bernard , Bizouarn Philippe , Cohen-Solal Alain , Singh Jagmeet P , Szymonifka Jackie , Latremouille Christian , Samuel Jane-Lise , Launay Jean-Marie , Pottecher Julien , Richards A Mark , Truong Quynh A , Smadja David M , Mebazaa Alexandre
Published: November 2017

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is accompanied by major neuroendocrine changes including the activation of the natriuretic peptide (NP) pathway. Using the unique model of patients undergoing implantation of the CARMAT total artificial heart and investigating regional differences in soluble neprilysin (sNEP) in patients with reduced or preserved systolic function, we studied the regulation of the NP pathway in HF.

Methods and results

Venous blood samples from two patients undergoing replacement of the failing ventricles with a total artificial heart were collected before implantation and weekly thereafter until post-operative week 6. The ventricular removal was associated with an immediate drop in circulating NPs, a nearly total disappearance of circulating glycosylated proBNP and furin activity and a marked decrease in sNEP. From post-operative week 1 onwards, NP concentrations remained overall unchanged. In contrast, partial recoveries in glycosylated proBNP, furin activity, and sNEP were observed. Furthermore, while in patients with preserved systolic function (n = 6), sNEP concentrations in the coronary sinus and systemic vessels were similar (all P > 0.05), in patients with reduced left-ventricular systolic function, sNEP concentration, and activity were ∼three-fold higher in coronary sinus compared to systemic vessels (n = 21, all P < 0.0001), while the trans-pulmonary gradient was neutral (n = 5, P = 1.0).

Conclusion

The heart plays a pivotal role as a regulator of the endocrine response in systolic dysfunction, not only by directly releasing NPs but also by contributing to circulating sNEP, which in turn determines the bioavailability of other numerous vasoactive peptides.
Outcomes of Operative Treatment for Adult Cervical Deformity: A Prospective Multicenter Assessment With 1-Year Follow-up
Authors: Ailon Tamir , Smith Justin S , Shaffrey Christopher I , Kim Han Jo , Mundis Gregory , Gupta Munish , Klineberg Eric , Schwab Frank , Lafage Virginie , Lafage Renaud , Passias Peter , Protopsaltis Themistocles , Neuman Brian , Daniels Alan , Scheer Justin K , Soroceanu Alex , Hart Robert , Hostin Rick , Burton Douglas , Deviren Vedat , Albert Todd J , Riew K Daniel , Bess Shay , Ames Christopher P ,   International Spine Study Group
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Despite the potential for profound impact of adult cervical deformity (ACD) on function and health-related quality of life (HRQOL), there are few high-quality studies that assess outcomes of surgical treatment for these patients.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of surgical treatment for ACD on HRQOL.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of surgically treated ACD patients eligible for 1-yr follow-up. Baseline deformity characteristics, surgical parameters, and 1-yr HRQOL outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Of 77 ACD patients, 55 (71%) had 1-yr follow-up (64% women, mean age of 62 yr, mean Charlson Comorbidity Index of 0.6, previous cervical surgery in 47%). Diagnoses included cervical sagittal imbalance (56%), cervical kyphosis (55%), proximal junctional kyphosis (7%) and coronal deformity (9%). Posterior fusion was performed in 85% (mean levels = 10), and anterior fusion was performed in 53% (mean levels = 5). Three-column osteotomy was performed in 24% of patients. One year following surgery, ACD patients had significant improvement in Neck Disability Index (50.5 to 38.0, P < .001), neck pain numeric rating scale score (6.9 to 4.3, P < .001), EuroQol 5 dimension (EQ-5D) index (0.51 to 0.66, P < .001), and EQ-5D subscores: mobility (1.9 to 1.7, P = .019), usual activities (2.2 to 1.9, P = .007), pain/discomfort (2.4 to 2.1, P < .001), anxiety/depression (1.8 to 1.5, P = .014).

CONCLUSION

Based on a prospective multicenter series of ACD patients, surgical treatment provided significant improvement in multiple measures of pain and function, including Neck Disability Index, neck pain numeric rating scale score, and EQ-5D. Further follow-up will be necessary to assess the long-term durability of these improved outcomes.
Human Brucellosis in Rural Uganda: Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, and Comorbidities at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, Kabale, Uganda
Authors: Dieckhaus Kevin D , Kyebambe Peterson S
Published: November 2017

Background

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, their products, or excreta such as urine or dung. Brucellosis is associated with significant morbidity in Southwestern Uganda, where cattle and goat rearing are a major economic industry. As in many settings in sub-Saharan Africa, diagnosis and management of brucellosis remain a challenge due to the presence of comorbidities and limitations in resources for diagnostic testing and therapy.

Methods

A chart review was conducted to characterize the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, comorbidities, and management of 101 patients treated for brucellosis at the Kabale Regional Referral Hospital from September 2002 to May 2010.

Results

Patients presented with substantial comorbidities. The most common manifestation of illness was osteoarticular, but disease manifestations were quite varied. A high rate of focal illness in this cohort (77%) was observed.

Conclusions

Clinicians in this setting should be cognizant of the varied presentations, comorbidities, and treatment options for this disease.
Bacillus cereus AR156 Activates Defense Responses to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato in Arabidopsis thaliana Similarly to flg22
Authors: Wang Shune , Zheng Ying , Gu Chun , He Chan , Yang Mengying , Zhang Xin , Guo Jianhua , Zhao Hongwei , Niu Dongdong
Published: November 2017

Bacillus cereus AR156 (AR156) is a plant growth–promoting rhizobacterium capable of inducing systemic resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we show that, when applied to Arabidopsis leaves, AR156 acted similarly to flg22, a typical pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP), in initiating PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI). AR156-elicited PTI responses included phosphorylation of MPK3 and MPK6, induction of the expression of defense-related genes PR1, FRK1, WRKY22, and WRKY29, production of reactive oxygen species, and callose deposition. Pretreatment with AR156 still significantly reduced P. syringae pv. tomato multiplication and disease severity in NahG transgenic plants and mutants sid2-2, jar1, etr1, ein2, npr1, and fls2. This suggests that AR156-induced PTI responses require neither salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, and ethylene signaling nor flagella receptor kinase FLS2, the receptor of flg22. On the other hand, AR156 and flg22 acted in concert to differentially regulate a number of AGO1-bound microRNAs that function to mediate PTI. A full-genome transcriptional profiling analysis indicated that AR156 and flg22 activated similar transcriptional programs, coregulating the expression of 117 genes; their concerted regulation of 16 genes was confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. These results suggest that AR156 activates basal defense responses to P. syringae pv. tomato in Arabidopsis, similarly to flg22.