bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Modeling, and Control of a New Manipulating Climbing Robot Through Infrastructures Using Adaptive Force Control Method
Authors: Boomeri V. , Tourajizadeh H.
Published: January 2020

In this paper, design, modeling, and control of a grip-based climbing robot are performed, which consists of a triangular chassis and three actuating legs. This robot can climb through any trusses, pipeline, and scaffolds structures and can perform any inspectional and operational tasks in the high height which decreases the falling danger of operation and increases the safety of the workers. The proposed robot can be substituted for the workers to decrease the risk of death danger and increase the safety of the operation. Since these kinds of infrastructures are truss shaped, the traditional wheel-based climbing robots are not able to travel through these structures. Therefore, in this paper, a grip-based climbing robot is designed to accomplish the climbing process through the trusses and infrastructures in order to perform inspecting and manipulating tasks. Hence, a proper mechanism for the mentioned robot is designed and its related kinematic and kinetic models are developed. Robot modeling is investigated for two different modes including climbing and manipulating phases. Considering the redundancy of the proposed robot and the parallel mechanism employed in it, the active joints are selected in a proper way and its path planning is performed to accomplish the required missions. Concerning the climbing mode, the required computed torque method (CTM) is calculated by the inverse dynamics of the robot. However, for the manipulation mode, after path planning, two controlling strategies are employed, including feedback linearization (FBL) and adaptive force control, and their results are compared as well. It is shown that the latter case is preferable since the external forces implemented on the end effector tool is not exactly predetermined and thus, the controller should adapt the robot with the exerted force pattern of the manipulator. The modeling correctness is investigated by performing some analytic and comparative simulation scenarios in the MATLAB and comparing the results with the MSC-ADAMS ones, for both climbing and manipulating phases. The efficiency of the designed controller is also proved by implementing an unknown force pattern on the manipulator to check its efficiency toward estimating the mentioned implemented forces and compensating the errors. It is shown that the designed robot can successfully climb through a truss and perform its operating task by the aid of the employed adaptive controller in an accurate way.
HOW DO DIFFERENT FORMS OF GLOSSING CONTRIBUTE TO L2 VOCABULARY LEARNING FROM READING?
Authors: Yanagisawa Akifumi , Webb Stuart , Uchihara Takumi
Published: January 2020

This meta-analysis investigated the overall effects of glossing on L2 vocabulary learning from reading and the influence of potential moderator variables: gloss format (type, language, mode) and text and learner characteristics. A total of 359 effect sizes from 42 studies (N= 3802) meeting the inclusion criteria were meta-analyzed. The results indicated that glossed reading led to significantly greater learning of words (45.3% and 33.4% on immediate and delayed posttests, respectively) than nonglossed reading (26.6% and 19.8%). Multiple-choice glosses were the most effective, and in-text glosses and glossaries were the least effective gloss types. L1 glosses yielded greater learning than L2 glosses. We found no interaction between language (L1, L2) and proficiency (beginner, intermediate, advanced), and no significant difference among modes of glossing (textual, pictorial, auditory). Learning gains were moderated by test formats (recall, recognition, other), comprehension of text, and proficiency.
Neutering in dogs and cats: current scientific evidence and importance of adequate nutritional management
Authors: Vendramini Thiago H. A. , Amaral Andressa R. , Pedrinelli Vivian , Zafalon Rafael V. A. , Rodrigues Roberta B. A. , Brunetto Marcio A.
Published: January 2020

Neutering or spaying is a commonly recommended veterinary procedure. However, veterinarians are often confronted with conflicting findings and differences in concepts regarding practice and proper nutritional management after the procedure. The objective of the present review was to bring to light the most recent literature, summarise it and discuss the findings focusing on the risks and benefits of neutering in dogs and cats, and to determine the appropriate nutritional management for these animals.
SYNONYMY OF BEGONIA KERALENSIS WITH BEGONIA BACHULKARII
Authors: Krishna N. , Pradeep A. K.
Published: January 2020

Begonia keralensis Pradeep, Sinj. Thomas & Britto and Begonia bachulkarii Aitawade, Kattuk. & S.R.Yadav were independently described recently from Nelliyampathy in Kerala, India, within two weeks of each other. The names are based on different types but represent the same taxon. Because Begonia bachulkarii is the earliest published name, Begonia keralensis is reduced to synonymy.
The impact of experience on how we perceive the rule of law
Authors: Arruñada Benito
Published: January 2020

Experience is a major source of knowledge. Could institutions be improved by eliciting the additional knowledge held by experienced individuals? I show here that in several areas of the law experienced individuals are more critical of institutional quality than inexperienced individuals. Moreover, performance indexes built with experienced subsamples substantially alter country rankings. Assuming no unmeasured confounders, more knowledge arguably leads experienced individuals to revise the more benign view held by the general population, composed mostly of inexperienced individuals. Moreover, experience is a stronger driver than alternative sources of knowledge, including education, which might therefore be reinforcing milder and, arguably, incorrect assessments of institutional quality. After observing how this ‘experience effect’ varies systematically across countries, I conclude by proposing that evaluations of institutional quality pay greater attention to experienced individuals and cautioning against basing inferences on assessments made by the general population.
Current Status of the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA)
Authors: Kremen William S. , Franz Carol E. , Lyons Michael J.
Published: January 2020

The Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA) is a longitudinal behavioral genetic study with a primary focus on cognitive and brain aging in men, particularly early identification of risk for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It comprises a subset of over 1600 twins from the Vietnam Era Twin Registry. Twins live all over the USA. Assessments began when participants were in their 50s. Follow-ups were conducted every 5–6 years, and wave 3 has been completed as of this writing. The age range of participants is narrow (about 10 years). An extensive neurocognitive test battery has added precision in assessing differences in middle-aged adults, and predicting progression to MCI. Young adult cognitive test data (at an average age of 20 years) provide a means of disentangling aging effects from longstanding differences. Genome wide genotyping and plasma assays of AD biomarkers from waves 1 and 3 were conducted in wave 3. These features make the VETSA ideal for studying the heterogeneity of within-individual trajectories from midlife to old age, and for early detection of risk factors for cognitive decline.
Ramp‐Like PM Accumulation Process and Z‐Less Similarity in the Stable Boundary Layer
Authors: Shi Yu , Hu Fei
Published: January 2020

Similar ramp‐like structures exist in the time variations of surface PM
accumulation during the four different heavy haze pollution processes in Beijing, from 3 November 2017 to 15 January 2018. Based on the ultrasonic anemometer observations at seven different altitudes on a 325 m tower, it is shown that turbulence momentum flux exchanges between different altitudes were very weak during the ramp period of PM
concentration. Turbulence at the higher altitude associated with strong wind shear, occasionally mixed downward toward the surface, showing upside‐down transportation of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), especially during the rapid removal stage of the pollution. This was different from the traditional upward TKE transportation above the surface. Vertical distribution of nondimensionalized standard deviation of the horizontal velocity, vertical velocity, and potential temperature in the stable boundary layer within the ramp‐like structure show obvious “z‐less” similarity, independent of
, and almost equal to constants (
/
3.9,
/
1.52, and
/
3.96).
N-acetylcysteine mitigates acute opioid withdrawal behaviors and CNS oxidative stress in neonatal rats
Authors: Ward Price , Moss Hunter G. , Brown Truman R. , Kalivas Peter , Jenkins Dorothea D.
Published: January 2020

Background

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a significant problem. Opioid withdrawal induces oxidative stress and disrupts glutamate and glutathione homeostasis. We hypothesized that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) administered during acute opioid withdrawal in neonatal rats would decrease withdrawal behaviors and normalize CNS glutathione and glutamate.

Methods

Osmotic minipumps with methadone (opioid dependent, OD) and saline (Sham) were implanted into Sprague Dawley dams 7 days prior to delivery. Pups were randomized to receive either naloxone plus saline or NAC (50–100 mg/kg), administered on postnatal day (PND) 7. We performed MR spectroscopy on PND6–7 before, 30 min, and 120 min after withdrawal. On PND7, we assessed withdrawal behaviors for 90 min after naloxone administration and summed scores during peak withdrawal period.

Results

Mean summed behavioral scores were significantly different between groups (χ2 (2) = 10.49, p = 0.005) but not different between NAC/NAL/OD and Sham (p = 0.14): SAL/NAL/OD = 17.2 ± 4.2 (n = 10); NAC/NAL/OD = 11.3 ± 5.6 (n = 9); Sham = 6.5 ± 0.6 (n = 4). SAL/NAL/OD pups had decreased glutathione at 120 min (p = 0.01), while NAC/NAL/OD pups maintained pre-withdrawal glutathione (p = 0.26).

Conclusion

In antenatal OD, NAC maintains CNS glutathione and mitigates acute opioid withdrawal in neonatal rats. This is the first study to demonstrate acute opioid withdrawal neurochemical changes in vivo in neonatal OD. NAC is a potential novel treatment for NAS.
Tensor-network approach for quantum metrology in many-body quantum systems
Authors: Chabuda Krzysztof , Dziarmaga Jacek , Osborne Tobias J. , Demkowicz-Dobrzański Rafał
Published: January 2020

Identification of the optimal quantum metrological protocols in realistic many particle quantum models is in general a challenge that cannot be efficiently addressed by the state-of-the-art numerical and analytical methods. Here we provide a comprehensive framework exploiting matrix product operators (MPO) type tensor networks for quantum metrological problems. The maximal achievable estimation precision as well as the optimal probe states in previously inaccessible regimes can be identified including models with short-range noise correlations. Moreover, the application of infinite MPO (iMPO) techniques allows for a direct and efficient determination of the asymptotic precision in the limit of infinite particle numbers. We illustrate the potential of our framework in terms of an atomic clock stabilization (temporal noise correlation) example as well as magnetic field sensing (spatial noise correlations). As a byproduct, the developed methods may be used to calculate the fidelity susceptibility—a parameter widely used to study phase transitions.
Efficient lateral-structure perovskite single crystal solar cells with high operational stability
Authors: Song Yilong , Bi Weihui , Wang Anran , Liu Xiaoting , Kang Yifei , Dong Qingfeng
Published: January 2020

The power conversion efficiency of perovskite polycrystalline thin film solar cells has rapidly increased in recent years, while the stability still lags behind due to its low thermal stability as well as the fast ion migration along the massive grain boundaries. Here, stable and efficient lateral-structure perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are achieved based on perovskite single crystals. By optimizing anode contact with a simple surface treatment, the open circuit voltage and fill factor dramatically increase and promote the efficiency of the devices exceeding 11% (0.05 to 1 Sun) compared to that of 5.9% (0.25 Sun) of the best lateral-structure single crystal PSCs previously reported. Devices show excellent operational stability and no degradation observed after 200 h continuous operation at maximum power point under 1 Sun illumination. Devices with scalable architectures are investigated by utilizing interdigital electrodes, which show huge potential to realize low cost and highly efficient perovskite photovoltaic devices.
Optically pumped colloidal-quantum-dot lasing in LED-like devices with an integrated optical cavity
Authors: Roh Jeongkyun , Park Young-Shin , Lim Jaehoon , Klimov Victor I.
Published: January 2020

Realization of electrically pumped lasing with solution processable materials will have a revolutionary impact on many disciplines including photonics, chemical sensing, and medical diagnostics. Due to readily tunable, size-controlled emission wavelengths, colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are attractive materials for attaining this goal. Here we use specially engineered QDs to demonstrate devices that operate as both a light emitting diode (LED) and an optically pumped laser. These structures feature a distributed feedback resonator integrated into a bottom LED electrode. By carefully engineering a refractive-index profile across the device, we are able to obtain good confinement of a waveguided mode within the QD medium, which allows for demonstrating low-threshold lasing even with an ultrathin (about three QD monolayers) active layer. These devices also exhibit strong electroluminescence (EL) under electrical pumping. The conducted studies suggest that the demonstrated dual-function (lasing/EL) structures represent a promising device platform for realizing colloidal QD laser diodes.
Enhanced JunD/RSK3 signalling due to loss of BRD4/FOXD3/miR-548d-3p axis determines BET inhibition resistance
Authors: Tai Fang , Gong Kunxiang , Song Kai , He Yanling , Shi Jian
Published: January 2020

BET bromodomain inhibitors (BETi), such as JQ1, have been demonstrated to effectively kill multiple types of cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanisms for BETi resistance remain largely unknown. Our evidences show that JQ1 treatment evicts BRD4 from the FOXD3-localized MIR548D1 gene promoter, leading to repression of miR-548d-3p. The loss of miRNA restores JunD expression and subsequent JunD-dependent transcription of RPS6KA2 gene. ERK1/2/5 kinases phosphorylate RSK3 (RPS6KA2), resulting in the enrichment of activated RSK3 and blockade of JQ1 killing effect. Dual inhibition of MEKs/ERKs or single EGFR inhibition are able to mimic the effect of JunD/RSK3-knockdown to reverse BETi resistance. Collectively, our study indicates that loss of BRD4/FOXD3/miR-548d-3p axis enhances JunD/RSK3 signalling and determines BET inhibition resistance, which can be reversed by targeting EGFR-MEK1/2/5-ERK1/2/5 signalling.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon formation chemistry in a plasma jet revealed by IR-UV action spectroscopy
Authors: Lemmens Alexander K. , Rap Daniël B. , Thunnissen Johannes M. M. , Willemsen Bryan , Rijs Anouk M.
Published: January 2020

Large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are the most abundant complex molecules in the interstellar medium; however, their possible formation pathways from small molecular species are still elusive. In the present work, we follow and characterize the formation of PAHs in an electrical discharge, specifically the PAH naphthalene in a molecular beam of argon. The fragments, products and reaction intermediates are unambiguously structurally identified by mass-selective IR-UV spectroscopy combined with quantum chemical calculations. This experiment provides evidence of the formation of larger PAHs containing up to four cyclic rings in the gas phase originating from a non-radical PAH molecule as a precursor. In addition to PAH formation, key resonance stabilized radical intermediates and intermediates containing di-acetylenic side groups are unambiguously identified in our experiment. We thereby not only reveal competing formation pathways to larger PAHs, but also identify intermediate species to PAH formation that are candidates for detection in radio-astronomy.
Propagation dynamics of spin excitations along skyrmion strings
Authors: Seki S. , Garst M. , Waizner J. , Takagi R. , Khanh N. D. , Okamura Y. , Kondou K. , Kagawa F. , Otani Y. , Tokura Y.
Published: January 2020

Magnetic skyrmions, topological solitons characterized by a two-dimensional swirling spin texture, have recently attracted attention as stable particle-like objects. In a three-dimensional system, a skyrmion can extend in the third dimension forming a robust and flexible string structure, whose unique topology and symmetry are anticipated to host nontrivial functional responses. Here we experimentally demonstrate the coherent propagation of spin excitations along skyrmion strings for the chiral-lattice magnet Cu2OSeO3. We find that this propagation is directionally non-reciprocal and the degree of non-reciprocity, as well as group velocity and decay length, are strongly dependent on the character of the excitation modes. These spin excitations can propagate over a distance exceeding 50 μm, demonstrating the excellent long-range ordered nature of the skyrmion-string structure. Our combined experimental and theoretical analyses offer a comprehensive account of the propagation dynamics of skyrmion-string excitations and suggest the possibility of unidirectional information transfer along such topologically protected strings.
Attenuation of TCR-induced transcription by Bach2 controls regulatory T cell differentiation and homeostasis
Authors: Sidwell Tom , Liao Yang , Garnham Alexandra L. , Vasanthakumar Ajithkumar , Gloury Renee , Blume Jonas , Teh Peggy P. , Chisanga David , Thelemann Christoph , de Labastida Rivera Fabian , Engwerda Christian R. , Corcoran Lynn , Kometani Kohei , Kurosaki Tomohiro , Smyth Gordon K. , Shi Wei , Kallies Axel
Published: January 2020

Differentiation and homeostasis of Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are strictly controlled by T-cell receptor (TCR) signals; however, molecular mechanisms that govern these processes are incompletely understood. Here we show that Bach2 is an important regulator of Treg cell differentiation and homeostasis downstream of TCR signaling. Bach2 prevents premature differentiation of fully suppressive effector Treg (eTreg) cells, limits IL-10 production and is required for the development of peripherally induced Treg (pTreg) cells in the gastrointestinal tract. Bach2 attenuates TCR signaling-induced IRF4-dependent Treg cell differentiation. Deletion of IRF4 promotes inducible Treg cell differentiation and rescues pTreg cell differentiation in the absence of Bach2. In turn, loss of Bach2 normalizes eTreg cell differentiation of IRF4-deficient Treg cells. Mechanistically, Bach2 counteracts the DNA-binding activity of IRF4 and limits chromatin accessibility, thereby attenuating IRF4-dependent transcription. Thus, Bach2 balances TCR signaling induced transcriptional activity of IRF4 to maintain homeostasis of thymically-derived and peripherally-derived Treg cells.
Control of locomotor speed, arousal, and hippocampal theta rhythms by the nucleus incertus
Authors: Lu Lihui , Ren Yuqi , Yu Tao , Liu Zhixiang , Wang Sice , Tan Lubin , Zeng Jiawei , Feng Qiru , Lin Rui , Liu Yang , Guo Qingchun , Luo Minmin
Published: January 2020

Navigation requires not only the execution of locomotor programs but also high arousal and real-time retrieval of spatial memory that is often associated with hippocampal theta oscillations. However, the neural circuits for coordinately controlling these important processes remain to be fully dissected. Here we show that the activity of the neuromedin B (NMB) neurons in the nucleus incertus (NI) is tightly correlated with mouse locomotor speed, arousal level, and hippocampal theta power. These processes are reversibly suppressed by optogenetic inhibition and rapidly promoted by optogenetic stimulation of NI NMB neurons. These neurons form reciprocal connections with several subcortical areas associated with arousal, theta oscillation, and premotor processing. Their projections to multiple downstream stations regulate locomotion and hippocampal theta, with the projection to the medial septum being particularly important for promoting arousal. Therefore, NI NMB neurons functionally impact the neural circuit for navigation control according to particular brains states.
Coordination assembly of 2D ordered organic metal chalcogenides with widely tunable electronic band gaps
Authors: Li Yanzhou , Jiang Xiaoming , Fu Zhihua , Huang Qingqing , Wang Guan-E. , Deng Wei-Hua , Wang Chen , Li Zhenzhu , Yin Wanjian , Chen Banglin , Xu Gang
Published: January 2020

Engineering the band gap chemically by organic molecules is a powerful tool with which to optimize the properties of inorganic 2D materials. The obtained materials are however still limited by inhomogeneous compositions and properties at nanoscale and small adjustable band gap ranges. To overcome these problems in the traditional exfoliation and then organic modification strategy, an organic modification and then exfoliation strategy was explored in this work for preparing 2D organic metal chalcogenides (OMCs). Unlike the reported organically modified 2D materials, the inorganic layers of OMCs are fully covered by long-range ordered organic functional groups. By changing the electron-donating ability of the organic functional groups and the electronegativity of the metals, the band gaps of OMCs were varied by 0.83 eV and their conductivities were modulated by 9 orders of magnitude, which are 2 and 107 times higher than the highest values observed in the reported chemical methods, respectively.
FBA Ecological Guild: Trio of Firmicutes-Bacteroidetes Alliance against Actinobacteria in Human Oral Microbiome
Authors: Li Wendy , Ma Zhanshan
Published: January 2020

In a pioneering study, Zaura et al. (2009) found that majority of oral microbes fall within the five phyla including, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria. Subsequent studies further identified a set of microbes that were commonly shared among unrelated individuals (i.e., core). However, these existing studies may have not been designed to investigate the interactions among various core species. Here by harnessing the power of ecological network analysis, we identified some important ecological guilds in the form of network clusters. In particular, we found that the strongest cluster is an alliance between Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes against Actinobacteria (FBA-guild). Within the guild, we further identified two sub-guilds, the Actinobacteria-dominant sub-guild (ASG) and Firmicutes-dominant allied with Bacteroidetes sub-guild (FBSG). Furthermore, we identified so-termed guard nodes in both sub-guilds, and their role may be to inhibit the peer sub-guild given they held competitive interactions only with the outside nodes only but held cooperative interactions only with the internal nodes, which we termed civilian nodes given that they only held cooperative interactions. We postulated that FBA-guild might be to do with protection of oral health against some opportunistic pathogens from Corynebacterium and Actinomyces, the two major genera of Actinobacteria (target of FB alliance).
Vectorial Proton Transport Mechanism of RxR, a Phylogenetically Distinct and Thermally Stable Microbial Rhodopsin
Authors: Kojima Keiichi , Ueta Tetsuya , Noji Tomoyasu , Saito Keisuke , Kanehara Kanae , Yoshizawa Susumu , Ishikita Hiroshi , Sudo Yuki
Published: January 2020

Rubrobacter xylanophilus rhodopsin (RxR) is a phylogenetically distinct and thermally stable seven-transmembrane protein that functions as a light-driven proton (H+) pump with the chromophore retinal. To characterize its vectorial proton transport mechanism, mutational and theoretical investigations were performed for carboxylates in the transmembrane region of RxR and the sequential proton transport steps were revealed as follows: (i) a proton of the retinylidene Schiff base (Lys209) is transferred to the counterion Asp74 upon formation of the blue-shifted M-intermediate in collaboration with Asp205, and simultaneously, a respective proton is released from the proton releasing group (Glu187/Glu197) to the extracellular side, (ii) a proton of Asp85 is transferred to the Schiff base during M-decay, (iii) a proton is taken up from the intracellular side to Asp85 during decay of the red-shifted O-intermediate. This ion transport mechanism of RxR provides valuable information to understand other ion transporters since carboxylates are generally essential for their functions.
Synthesis and Spectral Properties of Novel Singapore Green Analogues for Protease Detection
Authors: Bywaters Luke , Le Gresley Adam
Published: January 2020

Herein we describe the synthesis, characterisation and determination of fluorescence and photophysical properties of various novel analogues of the orphan fluorophore class Singapore Green. We equate the fluorescence properties of these novel fluorophores to their molecular structure and address the mechanisms through which their fluorescence is quenched and the effect this has on their quantum yields of fluorescence. Fluorescence quenching via acylation was also achieved, thereby providing conceptual proof of their utility as cores for future fluorescent probes. Additionally, we have produced and examined a number of unexpected acyl intermediates of variable photolytic stability. Furthermore, we have obtained proof of concept that the use of Singapore Greens for protease probe generation is feasible via demonstration of proteolytic cleavage of one of the acylated analogues.
Cardiac adaptation in hibernating, free-ranging Scandinavian Brown Bears (Ursus arctos)
Authors: Jørgensen Peter Godsk , Evans Alina , Kindberg Jonas , Olsen Lisbeth Høier , Galatius Søren , Fröbert Ole
Published: January 2020

During six months of annual hibernation, the brown bear undergoes unique physiological changes to adapt to decreased metabolic rate. We compared cardiac structural and functional measures of hibernating and active bears using comprehensive echocardiography. We performed echocardiography on 13 subadult free-ranging, anaesthetised Scandinavian brown bears (Ursus arctos) during late hibernation and in early summer. Mean heart rate was 26 beats per minute (standard deviation (SD): 8) during hibernation vs 71 (SD: 14) during active state. All left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic measures were decreased during hibernation: mean ejection fraction: 44.2% (SD: 6.0) active state vs 34.0 (SD: 8.1) hibernation, P = 0.001; global longitudinal strain: −11.2% (SD: 2.0) vs −8.8 (SD: 3.3), P = 0.03; global longitudinal strain rate: −0.82 (SD: 0.15) vs −0.41 (SD: 0.18), P < 0.001; septal e’: 9.8 cm/s (SD: 1.8) vs 5.2 (SD: 2.7), P < 0.001. In general, measures of total myocardial motion (ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain) were decreased to a lesser extent than measures of myocardial velocities. In the hibernating brown bear, cardiac adaptation included decreased functional measures, primarily measures of myocardial velocities, but was not associated with cardiac atrophy. Understanding the mechanisms of these adaptations could provide pathophysiological insight of human pathological conditions such as heart failure.
Association of glomerular DNA damage and DNA methylation with one-year eGFR decline in IgA nephropathy
Authors: Hayashi Kaori , Hishikawa Akihito , Hashiguchi Akinori , Azegami Tatsuhiko , Yoshimoto Norifumi , Nakamichi Ran , Tokuyama Hirobumi , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

Accumulation of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is linked to aging and age-related diseases. We recently reported the possible association of DNA DSBs with altered DNA methylation in murine models of kidney disease. However, DSBs and DNA methylation in human kidneys was not adequately investigated. This study was a cross-sectional observational study to evaluate the glomerular DNA DSB marker γH2AX and phosphorylated Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (pATM), and the DNA methylation marker 5-methyl cytosine (5mC) by immunostaining, and investigated the association with pathological features and clinical parameters in 29 patients with IgA nephropathy. To evaluate podocyte DSBs, quantitative long-distance PCR of the nephrin gene using laser-microdissected glomerular samples and immunofluorescent double-staining with WT1 and γH2AX were performed. Glomerular γH2AX level was associated with glomerular DNA methylation level in IgA nephropathy. Podocytopathic features were associated with increased number of WT1(+)γH2AX(+) cells and reduced amount of PCR product of the nephrin gene, which indicate podocyte DNA DSBs. Glomerular γH2AX and 5mC levels were significantly associated with the slope of eGFR decline over one year in IgA nephropathy patients using multiple regression analysis adjusted for age, baseline eGFR, amount of proteinuria at biopsy and immunosuppressive therapy after biopsy. Glomerular γH2AX level was associated with DNA methylation level, both of which may be a good predictor of renal outcome in IgA nephropathy.
Cell fibers promote proliferation of co-cultured cells on a dish
Authors: Shima Ai , Itou Akane , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: January 2020

This paper describes a co-culture method using cell fiber technology. Cell fibers are cell-laden hydrogel microfibers, in which cells are cultured three-dimensionally and allowed to reach more mature state than the conventional two-dimensional cell culture. Cells in the cell fibers are encapsulated by alginate shell. Only cellular secretome is released into the surrounding environment through the shell while the cells were retained by the fiber. With their high handleability and retrievability, we propose to use the cell fibers for co-culture to ensure steady supply of cellular secretome. We cultured mouse C2C12 myoblasts with mouse 3T3 fibroblasts encapsulated in the cell fibers for two days. The number of C2C12 cells increased proportionally to the number of co-cultured 3T3 fibers, suggesting that the secretome of 3T3 fibers promoted survival and proliferation of C2C12 cells. We believe that cell fiber technology is a useful tool for co-culturing cells, and it will contribute to both basic cell biology and tissue engineering with its unique features.
In Situ Analysis of Cellular Functional Molecules
Authors: Ju Huangxian , Tang Bo , Ding Lin
Published: January 2020

In recent years, in situ analysis of cellular functional molecules has attracted considerable interest as it can provide spatially or temporally resolved information of these essential molecules on/within living cells in a non-invasive way. In Situ Analysis of Cellular Functional Molecules introduces the tailor-made design of detection probes as well as schemes from a top-down perspective according to the unique characteristics of cellular functional molecules. The latest methodological developments, including enhancement of detection sensitivity and specificity, precision localization, implementation of dynamic tracking, and acquirement of quantitative functional information for various important functional molecules is discussed in detail. Written by leaders in the field, this book will provide a comprehensive overview to scientists in academia and professionals in industry working on different aspects of cellular analysis and cell biology.
Synthesis of nanoparticle-assembled Zn3(VO4)2 porous networks via a facile coprecipitation method for high-rate and long-life lithium-ion storage
Authors: Gu Yuanxiang , Han Yingjie , Hou Wenqi , Lan Huixia , Zhang Heng , Deng Xiaoyan , Wang Lei , Liu Jie
Published: January 2020

Nanoparticle-assembled Zn3(VO4)2 porous networks exhibited excellent electrochemical properties, including high reversible capacity, good cycling stability and excellent rate capability.
CO2-assisted fabrication of two-dimensional amorphous transition metal oxides
Authors: Liu Wei , Xu Qun , Zhou Yannan
Published: January 2020

This Frontier presents the recent developments and applications of two-dimensional (2D) amorphous transition metal oxides (TMOs) obtained by using supercritical CO2.
Colloidal characteristics, emulsifying activities, and interfacial properties of α-lactalbumin–chitosan electrostatic complexes: effects of mass ratio and pH
Authors: Liu Yuexiang , Fan Yuting , Wu Xuli , Lu Yujuan , Yi Jiang
Published: January 2020

Essential hydrophobic carrier properties of α-lactalbumin (α-LA) : chitosan (CHI) including mass ratio and pH have significant impacts on the characteristics, emulsifying activities, and interfacial properties of α-LA–CHI complexes.
A small-strain niobium nitride anode with ordered mesopores for ultra-stable potassium-ion batteries
Authors: Lee Jisung , Kim Seongseop , Park Jae-Hyuk , Jo Changshin , Chun Jinyoung , Sung Yung-Eun , Lim Eunho , Lee Jinwoo
Published: January 2020

Niobium nitride is first reported as an ultra-stable anode for KIBs. The superior electrochemical performance is attributed to large host for accommodating K ions with small-strain, and a high portion of the surface-controlled reaction.
Exploring Ni(Mn1/3Cr2/3)2O4 spinel-based electrodes for solid oxide cells
Authors: Duan Nanqi , Gao Minrui , Hua Bin , Li Meng , Chi Bo , Li Jian , Luo Jing-Li
Published: January 2020

The alkaline earth element- and cobalt-free Ni(Mn1/3Cr2/3)2O4 spinel is used to form composite electrodes with an oxygen ion conductive phase for symmetrical solid oxide cells, and applied successfully in both solid oxide fuel cell and solid oxide electrolysis cell modes.
Reducing trap density and carrier concentration by a Ge additive for an efficient quasi 2D/3D perovskite solar cell
Authors: Ng Chi Huey , Hamada Kengo , Kapil Gaurav , Kamarudin Muhammad Akmal , Wang Zhen , likubo Satoshi , Shen Qing , Yoshino Kenji , Minemoto Takashi , Hayase Shuzi
Published: January 2020

The incorporation of the GeI2 additive in novel quasi-2D/3D Sn perovskites suppresses Sn2+ oxidation and trap densities, thus enhancing the carrier dynamics of the perovskite materials.
Assessment of electrocatalytic activity through the lens of three surface area normalization techniques
Authors: Ren Hangjuan , Pan Ying , Sorrell Charles C. , Du Haiwei
Published: January 2020

Electrocatalytic activities of electrodes for water splitting are assessed via geometric area, BET surface area and ECSA normalisations.
Fiber-cap biosensors for SERS analysis of liquid samples
Authors: Credi Caterina , Bibikova Olga , Dallari Caterina , Tiribilli Bruno , Ratto Fulvio , Centi Sonia , Pini Roberto , Artyushenko Viacheslav , Cicchi Riccardo , Pavone Francesco Saverio
Published: January 2020

Versatile optical sensors were engineered to reversibly transform fiber-based photonic systems into SERS substrates for molecular probing of liquid samples.
An antioxidant self-healing hydrogel for 3D cell cultures
Authors: Yang Lei , Zeng Yuan , Wu Haibo , Zhou Chunwu , Tao Lei
Published: January 2020

An antioxidant self-healing hydrogel has been facilely prepared using the Biginelli reaction and then used for 3D cell culture.
IL-13-driven alterations in hepatic cholesterol handling contributes to hypercholesterolemia in a rat model of minimal change disease
Authors: Low Lauretta D. , Lu Liangjian , Chan Chang-Yien , Chen Jinmiao , Yang Henry H. , Yu Hanry , Lee Caroline G.L. , Ng Kar-Hui , Yap Hui-Kim
Published: January 2020

Circulating factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of minimal change disease (MCD), and may have direct effects on cholesterol metabolism. This study investigated the pathogenesis of hypercholesterolemia in an IL-13 overexpression rat model of MCD prior to the onset of proteinuria, so as to establish the direct contribution of IL-13, especially with regard to hepatic cholesterol handling. In this model of MCD, the temporal relationship between hypercholesterolemia and proteinuria was first identified. Plasma proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (Pcsk9) and liver ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 5 (Abcg5) were measured using ELISA. Liver Ldlr and liver X receptor alpha (Lxra) were quantified with Western blot. Abcg5-mediated cholesterol efflux in IL-13-stimulated rat primary hepatocytes was measured using taurocholate as cholesterol acceptor. The role of Lxra was validated using a luciferase assay in Lxre-luciferase-transfected IL-13-stimulated hepatocytes. IL-13-transfected rats developed hypercholesterolemia prior to proteinuria, with 35% of rats hypercholesterolemic but only 11% proteinuric by Day 20 (P = 0.04). These pre-proteinuric hypercholesterolemic rats showed elevations in total and LDL-cholesterol, but not hypertriglyceridemia or hepatic steatosis. The hypercholesterolemia was associated with increased hepatic Pcsk9 synthesis and enhanced circulating Pcsk9 levels, which correlated strongly with plasma total cholesterol (r = 0.73, P<0.001). The hypercholesterolemia was also contributed by decreased Abcg5 expression and activity, due to reduced Lxra expression. Lxra expression correlated with plasma total cholesterol levels (r = −0.52, P = 0.01), and overexpression of pLxra in rat hepatocytes abrogated the IL-13-mediated down-regulation of Lxre-driven gene expression. In conclusion, we have shown that IL-13 induced changes in hepatic cholesterol handling in a cytokine-induced rat model of MCD, resulting in hypercholesterolemia which can precede the onset of proteinuria.
(Letter to the Editor) Response to: protective role of peroxiredoxin-4 in heart failure
Authors: López-Andrés Natalia
Published: January 2020

We thank Ahmed et al. for their letter regarding our study ‘Galectin-3 down-regulates antioxidant peroxiredoxin-4 in human cardiac fibroblasts’ [1]. As emphasized by Ahmed et al., Prx-4 levels decrease [2] whereas MFN-2, OPA-1 and PGC-1α levels increase [3] in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Moreover, Gal-3 expression is also increased in DCM [4]. In our study, we showed in vitro that Gal-3 decreased Prx-4 without modifying MFN-2 or PGC-1α levels in human cardiac fibroblasts. Although cardiac Prx-4 decrease could be a direct consequence of Gal-3 effects on cardiac fibroblasts, we cannot exclude the possibility that other factors increase MFN-2, OPA-1 and PGC-1α levels in both cardiac fibroblasts or cardiomyocytes in the context of DCM. Further studies are needed to clarify the association between Prx-4 decrease and the increase in other mitochondrial proteins in DCM.
Auditory Detection Thresholds and Cochlear Resistivity Differ Between Pediatric Cochlear Implant Listeners With Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct and Those With Connexin-26 Mutations
Authors: Jahn Kelly N. , Bergan Molly D. , Arenberg Julie G.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The goal of this study was to evaluate differences in the electrode–neuron interface as a function of hearing loss etiology in pediatric cochlear implant (CI) listeners with enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) syndrome and in those with autosomal recessive connexin-26 mutations (DFNB1).

Method

Fifteen implanted ears (9 participants, 5 ears with EVA, 10 ears with DFNB1) were assessed. Single-channel auditory detection thresholds were measured using broad and spatially focused electrode configurations (steered quadrupolar; focusing coefficients = 0 and 0.9). Cochlear resistivity estimates were obtained via electrode impedances and electrical field imaging. Between-group differences were evaluated using linear mixed-effects models.

Results

Children with EVA had significantly higher auditory detection thresholds than children with DFNB1, irrespective of electrode configuration. Between-group differences in thresholds were more pronounced on apical electrodes than on basal electrodes. In the apex, electrode impedances and electrical field imaging values were higher for children with EVA than for those with DFNB1.

Conclusions

The electrode–neuron interface differs between pediatric CI listeners with DFNB1 and those with EVA. It is possible that optimal clinical interventions may depend, in part, on hearing loss etiology. Future investigations with large samples should investigate individualized CI programming strategies for listeners with EVA and DFNB1.
Entire process of surface discharge of GIS disc‐spacers under constant AC voltage
Authors: Zhao Chenhao , Tang Zhiguo , Zhang Liangen , Wu Deguan , Xia Hui , Li Hongyuan , Pan Kai
Published: January 2020

Surface contamination on the disc‐spacers is one of the main threats to the safe operation of gas insulated switchgear (GIS) insulation. The authors’ research has confirmed the phenomena of intermittent discharge of such defects under AC constant voltage and concluded that long‐intermittent discharge may be the cause of sudden flashover failure of GIS. To explore the characteristics of the process from the partial discharge (PD) inception to the breakdown of surface discharge under constant AC voltage, a 126 kV GIS test platform was built and long‐term uninterrupted detection was carried out in this study. By processing the discharge data of the entire process, distribution characteristics of phase‐resolved PD and N–V spectra and the trend of discharge repetition rate, discharge amplitude (maximum, mean, standard deviation) and discharge time interval (maximum, mean, standard deviation) were obtained. The results indicate that: there are two typical stages in the entire process of surface discharge under constant voltage and both discharge characteristics and risk of breakdown of those two stages are different obviously. Furthermore, based on the electro‐chemical aging theory and space charge effects, the long‐intermittent characteristics of solid insulation discharge are explained.
Derivation of parameters for 3748 FGK stars usingH-band spectra from APOGEE Data Release 14
Authors: Sarmento Pedro , Delgado Mena Elisa , Rojas-Ayala Bárbara , Blanco-Cuaresma Sergi
Published: January 2020

Context.The Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment (APOGEE) has observed theH-band spectra of over 200 000 stars withR ∼ 22 000.

Aims.The main motivation for this work is to test an alternative method to the standard APOGEE pipeline (APOGEE Stellar Parameter and Chemical Abundances Pipeline, ASPCAP) to derive parameters in the near-infrared for FGK dwarfs.

Methods.iSpec and Turbospectrum are used to generate synthetic spectra matching APOGEE observations and to determine the parameters throughχ2minimization.

Results.We present spectroscopic parameters (Teff, [M/H], logg,vmic) for a sample of 3748 main-sequence and subgiant FGK stars, obtained from their APOGEEH-band spectra.

Conclusions.We compare our output parameters with the ones obtained with ASPCAP for the same stellar spectrum, and find that the values agree within the expected uncertainties. A comparison with the optical samples California Planet Survey, High Accuracy Radial Velocity Planet Searcher – Guaranteed Time Observations, and PASTEL is also available, and median differences below 10 K forTeffand 0.2 dex for [M/H] are found. Reasons for these differences are explored. The fullH-band line list, the line selection for the synthesis, and the synthesized spectra are available at the CDS, as are the calculated parameters and their estimated uncertainties.
Research on Weight Optimization of Multi-Stage Cylindrical Gear Drive and Effect of Objective Function Form on Optimization Results
Authors: Han Lin , Liu Geng , Yang Xiaohui , Han Bing
Published: January 2020

The minimal weight design problem of multi-stage gear drive is always the key issue in engineering research. Generally, the weight of gear drive system is mainly made up by the weight of gears, shafts and gearbox. While, the weight of these three parts are mainly determined by the basic parameters and layout parameters of gears and shafts. Thus, a new optimization model for the optimization of basic parameters and layout parameters of cylindrical gear drives was proposed. To verify the applicability, the present model is applied to the weight optimization problem of a ZSY three-stage cylindrical gear reducer and solved by genetic algorithm. Meanwhile, three different formats of objective functions that can realize the object of weight optimization are applied to the optimization problem individually. Comparing their optimal results, the best fitting format of objective function has been found.
Aerodynamic and Stealth Integrated Design of DSI Inlet by Surrogate-Based Multi-Objective Optimization with EHVI Infill Criterion
Authors: Fan Huayu , Zhan Hao , Cheng Shixin , Mi Baigang
Published: January 2020

To deal with the problem of aerodynamic and stealth integrated optimization of DSI inlet, a multi-objective optimization study on aerodynamic and stealth of the DSI inlet is carry out which based on the deformation of the three-dimensional compression bump surface. The FFD parametric method is used to parameterize the bump surface; CFD calculation based on RANS equations is used to analyze the aerodynamic performance of the DSI inlet, large element physical optical method and uniform theory of diffraction are used to calculate RCS of the DSI inlet; And ASMOPSO algorithm with the Kriging surrogate model which based on the expect hyper-volume improvement infill criterion is adopted for integrated optimization design. The results of DSI inlet aerodynamic and stealth integrated optimization exhibit considerable improvement.
Joint Optimization of User Association and Resource Allocation for Millimeter-Wave Integrated Backhaul and Access Network
Authors: Ma Zhongyu , Li Bo , Yan Zhongjiang , Yang Mao
Published: January 2020

Since the millimeter wave integrated backhaul and access network(mm-Wave IBAN) can divide the resource ratio between the access and the backhaul link as needed, there is a huge advantage in the improvement of the utilization rate for 5G communication network. A joint optimization method of user association and resource allocation is proposed and implemented for the mm-Wave IBAN from the perspective of the maximization of the transmission traffic in the whole network. The joint optimization problem of the user association and the resource allocation is formulated as a combined non-convex optimization problem, and then the problem is decomposed into two sub-problems. The first sub-problem, which is aimed at the maximization of the whole access rate, is the problem of the user association under the condition of the match between the access rate and backhaul rate. The second sub-problem, which is aimed at the maximization of the whole traffic of the network, is the problem of the resources allocation between the access link and backhaul link. The artificial immune optimization algorithm (IOA) is used to solve the first sub-problem. After that, the optimal transmission resource ratio between the access link and backhaul link is obtained according to the differentiating of the expression for the whole traffic. The simulation results show that the proposed method has more gains in the improvement of the whole network traffic when compared with the user association mechanism based on the nearest distance.