bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of miRNA and gene expression profiles suggest a role for miRNAs in the pathobiological processes of acute Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Authors: Ferreira Ludmila Rodrigues Pinto , Ferreira Frederico Moraes , Laugier Laurie , Cabantous Sandrine , Navarro Isabela Cunha , da Silva Cândido Darlan , Rigaud Vagner Carvalho , Real Juliana Monte , Pereira Glaucia Vilar , Pereira Isabela Resende , Ruivo Leonardo , Pandey Ramendra Pati , Savoia Marilda , Kalil Jorge , Lannes-Vieira Joseli , Nakaya Helder , Chevillard Christophe , Cunha-Neto Edecio
Published: December 2017

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is endemic in Latin America. Its acute phase is associated with high parasitism, myocarditis and profound myocardial gene expression changes. A chronic phase ensues where 30% develop severe heart lesions. Mouse models of T. cruzi infection have been used to study heart damage in Chagas disease. The aim of this study was to provide an interactome between miRNAs and their targetome in Chagas heart disease by integrating gene and microRNA expression profiling data from hearts of T. cruzi infected mice. Gene expression profiling revealed enrichment in biological processes and pathways associated with immune response and metabolism. Pathways, functional and upstream regulator analysis of the intersections between predicted targets of differentially expressed microRNAs and differentially expressed mRNAs revealed enrichment in biological processes and pathways such as IFNγ, TNFα, NF-kB signaling signatures, CTL-mediated apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and Nrf2-modulated antioxidative responses. We also observed enrichment in other key heart disease-related processes like myocarditis, fibrosis, hypertrophy and arrhythmia. Our correlation study suggests that miRNAs may be implicated in the pathophysiological processes taking place the hearts of acutely T. cruzi-infected mice.
Microbial stress mediated intercellular nanotubes in an anaerobic microbial consortium digesting cellulose
Authors: John Martina , Trzcinski Antoine Prandota , Zhou Yan , Ng Wun Jern
Published: December 2017

The anaerobic digestion process is a multi - step reaction dependent on concerted activities such as exchange of metabolites among physiologically different microbial communities. This study investigated the impact of iron oxide nanoparticles on the anaerobic sludge microbiota. It was shown there were three distinct microbial phases following addition of the nanoparticles: microbial stress and cell death of approximately one log order of magnitude, followed by microbial rewiring, and recovery. Furthermore, it was noted that cellular stress led to the establishment of intercellular nanotubes within the microbial biomass. Intercellular nanotube - mediated communication among genetically engineered microorganisms and ad hoc assembled co - cultures have been previously reported. This study presents evidence of intercellular nanotube formation within an environmental sample – i.e., anaerobic sludge microbiota subjected to stress. Our observations suggested a mode of microbial communication in the anaerobic digestion process not previously explored and which may have implications on bioreactor design and microbial functions.
Application of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with chemometrics on postmortem interval estimation based on pericardial fluids
Authors: Zhang Ji , Li Bing , Wang Qi , Wei Xin , Feng Weibo , Chen Yijiu , Huang Ping , Wang Zhenyuan
Published: December 2017

Postmortem interval (PMI) evaluation remains a challenge in the forensic community due to the lack of efficient methods. Studies have focused on chemical analysis of biofluids for PMI estimation; however, no reports using spectroscopic methods in pericardial fluid (PF) are available. In this study, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (ATR) accessory was applied to collect comprehensive biochemical information from rabbit PF at different PMIs. The PMI-dependent spectral signature was determined by two-dimensional (2D) correlation analysis. The partial least square (PLS) and nu-support vector machine (nu-SVM) models were then established based on the acquired spectral dataset. Spectral variables associated with amide I, amide II, COO−, C-H bending, and C-O or C-OH vibrations arising from proteins, polypeptides, amino acids and carbohydrates, respectively, were susceptible to PMI in 2D correlation analysis. Moreover, the nu-SVM model appeared to achieve a more satisfactory prediction than the PLS model in calibration; the reliability of both models was determined in an external validation set. The study shows the possibility of application of ATR-FTIR methods in postmortem interval estimation using PF samples.
Fast polarization mechanisms in the uniaxial tungsten-bronze relaxor strontium barium niobate SBN-81
Authors: Buixaderas E. , Kadlec C. , Kempa M. , Bovtun V. , Savinov M. , Bednyakov P. , Hlinka J. , Dec J.
Published: December 2017

The high-frequency dielectric response of the uniaxial strontium barium niobate crystals with 81% of Sr has been studied from 1 kHz to 30 THz along the polarcaxis by means of several techniques (far infrared, time domain terahertz, high-frequency and low-frequency dielectric spectroscopies) in a wide temperature interval 20–600 K. Relaxor properties were observed in the complex dielectric response and four main excitations were ascertained below the phonon frequencies. These fast polarization mechanisms take place at THz, GHz and MHz ranges and show different temperature evolution. The central mode excitation in the THz range, related to anharmonic dynamics of cations, slightly softens from high temperatures and then hardens belowT ~ 400 K. Below the phase transition (atT~ 330 K) an additional microwave excitation appears near 10 GHz related to micro domain wall oscillations. The strongest relaxation appears in the GHz range and slows down on cooling according to the Arrhenius law. Finally, another relaxation, present in the MHz range at high temperatures, also slows down on cooling at least to the kHz range. These two relaxations are due to polar fluctuations and nanodomains dynamics. Altogether, the four excitations explain the dielectric permittivity maximum in the kHz range.
Tunable direct band gap photoluminescent organic semiconducting nanoparticles from lignite
Authors: B Manoj , Raj Ashlin M , Chirayil George Thomas
Published: December 2017

Fluorescent organic semiconducting dots (OSDs) with tunable particle size and surface functionality are synthesized from lignite by chemical oxidation method followed by ultra-sonication techniques and dialysis. The defects and oxygen functionalities play a vital role in the photoluminescent property of the synthesized nanoparticles along with quantum confinement effect. These nanomaterials are suitable for imaging and chemical sensing applications as there is no photobleaching and quenching even after a continuous UV exposure of 24 hours and storage of 2 years. The excellent excitation dependent luminescence of the synthesized carbon dots can be utilized for making a low-cost carbon-based sensor for Cu2+metal ions sensing. The OSDs show good ratiometric fluorescent sensing and can be used as a reliable probe for the detection of Cu2+ions. They exhibit excellent detection limit of copper ion in acidic solution to a very low concentration of 0.0089 nM. The fluorescent nanodots synthesized from such an abundant and cost-effective precursor exhibiting high copper ion sensitivity is being reported for the first time.
Attraction of Culex mosquitoes to aldehydes from human emanations
Authors: Leal Helena M. , Hwang Justin K. , Tan Kaiming , Leal Walter S.
Published: December 2017

Anecdotes related to preferential mosquito bites are very common, but to date there is no complete explanation as to why one out of two people systematically receives more mosquito bites than the other when both are equally accessible. Here we tested the hypothesis that two constituents of skin emanations, 6-methyl-5-heptan-2-one (6-MHO) and geranylacetone (GA), are natural repellents and may account for differential attraction in different ratios. We studied skin emanations from two human subjects, confirmed in behavioral assays that female southern house mosquitoes are significantly more attracted to subject A (attractant) than to subject N (non-attractant), and tested their 6-MHO/GA ratios in a dual-choice olfactometer. Although repelling at high doses, 6-MHO/GA mixtures were not active at the levels emitted by human skin. We found, however, differential attraction elicited by the aldehydes in the ratios produced by subjects A and N. When tested in a dose commensurate with the level released from human skin and in the ratio produced by subject A, the aldehyde mixture significantly attracted mosquitoes. By contrast, an aldehyde mixture at the same ratio released by subject N did not attract mosquitoes. We, therefore, hypothesized that aldehydes may play a role in the commonly observed differential attraction.
Phenylamino derivatives of tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine: hydrogen-bonded peroxodicopper complexes
Authors: Dahl E. W. , Dong H. T. , Szymczak N. K.
Published: December 2017

A series of copper complexes bearing new 6-substituted tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine ligands (LR) appended with NH(p-R-C6H4) groups (R = H, CF3, OMe) were prepared.
Particle anisotropy and crystalline phase transition in one-pot synthesis of nano-zirconia: a causal relationship
Authors: Tana Francesca , Serafini Andrea , Lutterotti Luca , Cigada Alberto , Variola Fabio , Bondioli Federica , De Nardo Luigi
Published: December 2017

The effects of experimental variables on zirconia nanocrystal growth are investigated, correlating the morphological transformations with phase composition in synthesized nanopowders.
On the origin of high-temperature phenomena in Pt/Al2O3
Authors: Lisitsyn Alexander S. , Yakovina Olga A.
Published: December 2017

This study shows a complex interplay between the adsorbate, metal particles and underlying support, which causes dynamic changes at the metal–support interface and governs the behavior and properties of highly-dispersed nanosystems.
A computational study of CO oxidation reactions on metal impurities in graphene divacancies
Authors: Tang Yanan , Chen Weiguang , Shen Zigang , Li Chenggang , Ma Dongwei , Dai Xianqi
Published: December 2017

Based on the density functional theory calculations, the formation geometry, electronic properties, and catalytic activity of metal impurities in divacancy graphene (M-DG, M = Mo, Fe, Co, and Ni) were systematically investigated.
Capillary-based integrated digital PCR in picoliter droplets
Authors: Chen Jinyu , Luo Zhaofeng , Li Lin , He Jinlong , Li Luoquan , Zhu Jianwei , Wu Ping , He Liqun
Published: December 2017

We have developed a capillary-based integrated droplet digital PCR system to realize absolute quantification.
Protic pyrazolium ionic liquids for efficient chemical fixation of CO2: design, synthesis, and catalysis
Authors: Zheng Danning , Wang Tengfei , Zhu Xinrui , Chen Ci , Ren Tiegang , Wang Li , Zhang Jinglai
Published: December 2017

Three new protic pyrazolium ILs, HTMPzBr, HMM3PzBr, and HMM5PzBr, have been synthesized to explore their catalytic activity for the coupling reaction of carbon dioxide and propylene oxide.
The effect of anthracene-based chalcone derivatives in the resazurin dye reduction assay mechanisms for the investigation of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial and fungal infection
Authors: Prakash Gopi , Boopathy Mani , Selvam Ramasamy , Johnsanthosh Kumar Samuel , Subramanian Kathavarayan
Published: December 2017

A novel series of anthracene-based chalcone derivatives were synthesized and evaluated in terms of their antibacterial and antifungal activities.
Anomalous dispersion of magnetic spiky particles for enhanced oil emulsions/water separation
Authors: Chen Hui-Jiuan , Hang Tian , Yang Chengduan , Liu Guishi , Lin Di-an , Wu Jiangming , Pan Shuolin , Yang Bo-ru , Tao Jun , Xie Xi
Published: December 2017

Surface nanospikes prevented particle aggregation in water without compromising surface hydrophobicity.
Quantitative characterization of the ionic mobility and concentration in Li-battery cathodes via low frequency electrochemical strain microscopy
Authors: Alikin D. O. , Romanyuk K. N. , Slautin B. N. , Rosato D. , Shur V. Ya. , Kholkin A. L.
Published: December 2017

We provide a viable quantitative approach for the probing of ionic concentration and diffusion coefficients at the nanoscale.
A novel organotrophic nitrate-reducing Fe(ii)-oxidizing bacterium isolated from paddy soil and draft genome sequencing indicate its metabolic versatility
Authors: Hu Min , Chen Pengcheng , Sun Weimin , Li Fangbai , Cui Jianghu
Published: December 2017

Physiological and genomic information of this strain provide preliminary evidence for nitrate-reduction coupled Fe(ii)-oxidation in microorganisms from paddy soil.
An injectablein situlipid phase transition system for sustained delivery of dabigatran etexilate with low burst release
Authors: Zhang Xuanmiao , Hu Mei , Wei Guangfei , Jia Mengdi , Gong Tao , Liu Ji
Published: December 2017

The first report of dabigatran exilate sustained release injection that exhibited great potential in controlling initial burst release.
A postsynthetic ion exchange method for tunable doping of hydroxyapatite nanocrystals
Authors: Chen Gaoyu , Zheng Xiaoyan , Wang Chong , Hui Junfeng , Sheng Xuexi , Xu Xiangxing , Bao Jianchun , Xiu Weijun , Yuwen Lihui , Fan Daidi
Published: December 2017

Hydroxyapatite nanocrystals were doped with various metal ions with tunable doping level and preserved morphology via a postsynthetic approach.
Air electrode based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) microflower/graphene composite for superior Li–O2batteries with excellent cycle performance
Authors: Yoon S. H. , Park Y. J.
Published: December 2017

A PEDOT microflower/graphene composite was introduced as a potential electrode material for Li–O2batteries with enhanced electrochemical performance.
Thermally induced bilayered crystals in a solution-processed polycrystalline thin film of phenylterthiophene-based monoalkyl smectic liquid crystals and their effect on FET mobility
Authors: Wu Hao , Iino Hiroaki , Hanna Jun-ichi
Published: December 2017

Herein, a series of asymmetric monoalkyl terthiophene derivatives, Ph-(Tp)3-Cn, (6 ≤ n ≤ 18), were synthesized to study the phase transition from monolayered crystal to bilayered crystal, leading to a significant increase of OFET mobility.
Holistic and dynamic metabolic alterations of traditional Chinese medicine syndrome in a toxic heat and blood stasis syndrome rat model
Authors: Xu Jing-Jing , Xu Feng , Shen Shu-Jie , Li Teng , Zhang Yi-Fan , Shang Ming-Ying , Li Yao-Li , Liu Guang-Xue , Wang Xuan , Cai Shao-Qing
Published: December 2017

Dynamic changes of the metabolic network during the evolution of a syndrome based on the toxic heat and blood stasis syndrome (THBSS) rat model have been elucidated for the first time.
Improving osteogenesis of PLGA/HA porous scaffolds based on dual delivery of BMP-2 and IGF-1viaa polydopamine coating
Authors: Zhang Jun , Li Jianan , Jia Guoliang , Jiang Yikun , Liu Qinyi , Yang Xiaoyu , Pan Su
Published: December 2017

To engineer bone tissue, an ideal biodegradable implant should be biocompatible, biodegradable, osteoinductive and osteoconductive.
A fluorescence switch sensor for detection of virginiamycin based on graphene oxide-supported carbon quantum dots and molecularly imprinted polymer
Authors: Li Shuhuai , Li Jianping , Luo Jinhui , Zhang Qun , Zhang Lianming
Published: December 2017

A fluorescence switch sensor was developed for the detection of virginiamycin, which was based on graphene oxide-supported carbon quantum dots (GO/C-dots) as the signal indicator and molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) as the recognition template.
New insights into the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic polymers by using fluorescent tagged carbohydrate-binding modules
Authors: Khatri Vinay , Meddeb-Mouelhi Fatma , Beauregard Marc
Published: December 2017

Modification of lignocellulosic polymers at the surface of wood fibers can easily be monitored using fluorescent probes (FTCM method). By applying FTCM, a simple and rapid method, biomass industries could substantially improve cost-effectiveness of production of biofuels and other lignocellulosic biomass-based products.
Customizing polyelectrolyte complex shapes through photolithographic directed assembly
Authors: de Silva Udaka K. , Choudhuri Kunal , Bryant-Friedrich Amanda C. , Lapitsky Yakov
Published: December 2017

Custom-shaped polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) are prepared through photolithography. These PECs can fold, unfold or dissolve in response to environmental cues.
Improved sodium-ion storage performance of Ti3C2TxMXenes by sulfur doping
Authors: Li Jiabao , Yan Dong , Hou Shujin , Li Yuquan , Lu Ting , Yao Yefeng , Pan Likun
Published: December 2017

A S-doped Ti3C2TxMXene was synthesized and applied as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries for the first time.
Controlling interpenetration through linker conformation in the modulated synthesis of Sc metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Marshall Ross J. , Lennon Ciaran T. , Tao Andi , Senn Hans M. , Wilson Claire , Fairen-Jimenez David , Forgan Ross S.
Published: December 2017

Linker conformation controls interpenetration in two structurally analogous scandium metal–organic frameworks, one of which can be defect engineered by coordination modulation to introduce hierarchical porosity.
Solution processed Li5AlO4 dielectric for low voltage transistor fabrication and its application in metal oxide/quantum dot heterojunction phototransistors
Authors: Sharma Anand , Chourasia Nitesh K. , Sugathan Anumol , Kumar Yogesh , Jit Satyabrata , Liu Shun-Wei , Pandey Anshu , Biring Sajal , Pal Bhola N.
Published: December 2017

Li5AlO4 dielectric for low voltage transistor: Its application in metal oxide/quantum dot heterojunction phototransistors.
Decentralised non‐linear SDRE observer–controller scheme for large‐scale power systems
Authors: Tummala Ayyarao S.L.V. , Bharani Chandra Kumar Pakki , Pulipaka V. Ramana Rao
Published: December 2017

An efficient controller design is essential to damp out the rotor speed oscillations for real‐life power systems during nominal and faulty conditions. This study presents a decentralised non‐linear state observer and controller scheme for power system stabilisers (PSS). Conventional PSS designs are based on linearised models of power system, which is then followed by gain scheduling to cover the complete operating region. Here, the authors propose a derivative‐free state‐dependent Riccati equation (SDRE) controller and observer scheme for the PSS. Unlike the conventional methods, the proposed scheme is directly based on non‐linear models and does not require linearised models. For the proposed SDRE scheme, the non‐linear power system model is first converted in state‐dependent coefficient form; then the SDRE controller is designed to achieve the desired performance. The SDRE observer is designed to estimate the states of the power systems based on output information; finally, the estimated states are fed back to the SDRE controller. The proposed combined SDRE observer–controller scheme is tested on a 68‐bus benchmark system and is compared with the conventional control scheme. Extensive simulations are performed to show the efficacy of the proposed scheme under nominal and faulty conditions.
Natural‐air‐cooled 5 kVA single‐phase GaN inverter with paralleled multilayer PCB magnetics
Authors: Meşe Hüseyin , Çadırcı Işık
Published: December 2017

In this study, a systematic approach to the design and development of a high‐efficiency, natural‐air‐cooled, single‐phase inverter with a multilayer high‐current printed‐circuit board (PCB) magnetics is presented. The size and efficiency of inverters implemented with the silicon transistor technology have almost reached a certain limit. The use of wide bandgap power semiconductors, such as the silicon carbide metal–oxide–semiconductor field‐effect transistor and the gallium nitride (GaN) enhancement‐mode (e‐mode) transistor not only pushes further the efficiency limits, but also shrinks the inverter size. A new approach is proposed here in order to obtain a high‐efficiency inverter which relies basically upon the derivation of analytical expressions for the inverter losses as a function of the inverter modulation index, for the optimum transistor and highest switching frequency pair selection, and the design of the output filter based on a paralleled, multilayer PCB magnetics. In the developed 5 kVA single‐phase full‐bridge inverter, GaN e‐mode transistors are used to minimise the inverter losses and to decrease the cooling requirement, and size of the system. The proposed systematic design approach has been verified on the implemented 5 kVA, 50 kHz, naturally‐cooled GaN inverter, with a power density of 2.7 W/cm3 (44.3 W/inch3), and a full‐load efficiency of 98%.
Improved BP neural network algorithm to wind power forecast
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wang Bo , Liu Chun , Wang Wei‐sheng
Published: December 2017

To constantly enhance the accuracy of wind power prediction and furthermore reduce the uncertainty of power grid dispatching, this study proposes an improved back propagation (BP) neural network algorithm. The original prediction method of BP neural network algorithm has been improved, and the traditional minimum square error (SE) perform function is abandoned. Maximum correntropy criteria (MCC) algorithm which is more conducive to deal with non‐Gaussian error and big noise is introduced, and a new perform function is created. Through the analysis of examples, the feasibility of MCC algorithm is verified. Comparing to the traditional mean SE (MSE) perform function, MCC perform function could drop the limit error of prediction, reduce root MSE and increase the correlation between forecasting power and real power. The most important is that the prediction accuracy is enhanced.
Comparison of centralised and distributed battery energy storage systems in LV distribution networks on operational optimisation and financial benefits
Authors: Qiao Zhi , Yang Jin
Published: December 2017

The integration of renewable energy sources and plug‐in electric vehicles (PEVs) into the existing low‐voltage (LV) distribution network at a high penetration level can cause reverse power flow, increased overall energy demand, network congestion, voltage rise/dip, transformer overloading and other operational issues. In this study, these potentially negative impacts caused by increasing penetration of distributed energy resources and PEVs are stochastically quantified based on a real practical 400 V distribution network as a case study. Battery energy storage (BES) is known to be a promising method for peak shaving and to provide network ancillary services. Two types of BES implementations aiming at distinctive charging and discharging targets without communication infrastructure or control centre are proposed and simulated. Optimisation results and potential financial profit of these two BES systems are compared and discussed in detail.
Phase-dependent noise in Josephson junctions
Authors: Sheldon Forrest , Peotta Sebastiano , Di Ventra Massimiliano
Published: December 2017

In addition to the usual superconducting current, Josephson junctions (JJs) support a phase-dependent conductance related to the retardation effect of tunneling quasi-particles. This introduces a dissipative current with a memory-resistive (memristive) character that should also affect the current noise. By means of the microscopic theory of tunnel junctions we compute the complete current autocorrelation function of a Josephson tunnel junction and show that this memristive component gives rise to both a previously noted phase-dependent thermal noise, and an undescribed non-stationary, phase-dependent dynamic noise. As experiments are approaching ranges in which these effects may be observed, we examine the form and magnitude of these processes. Their phase dependence can be realized experimentally as a hysteresis effect and may be used to probe defects present in JJ based qubits and in other superconducting electronics applications.
Release of Prometastatic Platelet-Derived Microparticles Induced by Breast Cancer Cells: A Novel Positive Feedback Mechanism for Metastasis
Authors: Zarà Marta , Guidetti Gianni , Boselli Daniela , Villa Chiara , Canobbio Ilaria , Seppi Claudio , Visconte Caterina , Canino Jessica , Torti Mauro
Published: December 2017

Circulating platelets and platelet-derived microparticles are regulators of cancer metastasis. In this study, we show that breast cancer cells induce platelet aggregation and lead to the release of platelet-derived microparticles. Although able to cause comparable aggregation, the highly aggressive MDA-MB-231 cells were more potent than the poorly aggressive MCF7 cells in inducing platelet-derived microparticles release, which was comparable to that promoted by thrombin. MDA-MB-231 cells were able to bind and internalize both MCF7- and MDA-MB-231-induced platelet-derived microparticles with comparable efficiency. By contrast, MCF7 cells did not interact with either type of platelet-derived microparticles. Upon internalization, only platelet-derived microparticles released by platelet stimulation with MDA-MB-231 cells, but not those released upon stimulation with MCF7 cells, caused activation of MDA-MB-231 cells and promoted the phosphorylation of selected signaling proteins, including p38MAPK and myosin light chain. Accordingly, MDA-MB-231-induced, but not MCF7-induced, platelet-derived microparticles dose-dependently stimulated migration and invasion of targeted MDA-MB-231 cells. These results identify a novel paracrine positive feedback mechanism initiated by aggressive breast cancer cell types to potentiate their invasive phenotype through the release of platelet-derived microparticles.
Serum Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Relation with Different Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Men with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Siddiqui Khalid , Al-Rubeaan Khalid , Nawaz Shaik , Aburisheh Khaled , Alaabdin Anas , Tolba Ibrahim
Published: December 2017

Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is demonstrated to be decreased in subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of SHBG in relation to MetS components among men with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This cross-sectional study was carried out among 429 Saudi T2D male patients aged >30 years. Metabolic syndrome was defined using International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, albumin, and lipid parameter were measured. Gonadal hormones, namely total testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and SHBG were determined using ELISA. The SHBG levels of the MetS group was significantly lower than non-MetS group 47.25±31.03 nmol/l vs. 56.55±37.84 nmol/l; p=0.013. As the MetS score increases, SHBG and HDL levels decrease while weight, BMI, waist circumference, SBP, DBP, FBG, HbA1c, TC, and TG levels increase. SHBG correlated with age, BMI, TG, HDL, TT, free testosterone, and bio-available testosterone. This is the first study that provides detailed analyses of SHBG with MetS components in male diabetic subjects. The mean serum SHBG levels gradually declined with the addition of MetS components in T2D men. TT, free testosterone, and bio-available testosterone remained independently associated with SHBG by multivariable regression analysis.
Equation of state of 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene up to 66 GPa
Authors: Plisson Thomas , Pineau Nicolas , Weck Gunnar , Bruneton Eric , Guignot Nicolas , Loubeyre Paul
Published: December 2017

The equation of state and the unit cell parameters of triamino-trinitrobenzene (TATB) have been measured up to 66 GPa by x-ray diffraction on multi-grain samples. A custom indexing of the diffraction pattern was implemented to enable an unambiguous assignment of the diffraction peaks. The structural data reveal a more isotropic response to compression above 10 GPa, indicating that the van der Waals forces are no more the dominant interplanar interactions. The unit cell parameters are compared with density functional theory calculations, including the empirical D2 correction for the van der Waals interactions. An excellent agreement is obtained up to 20 GPa and an increasing deviation above. The present determination of the TATB isothermal equation of state is reliable for detonation physics applications.
Comparison of the leading-edge timing walk in pulsed TOF laser range finding with avalanche bipolar junction transistor (BJT) and metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) switch based laser diode drivers
Authors: Hintikka Mikko , Hallman Lauri , Kostamovaara Juha
Published: December 2017

Timing walk error in pulsed time-of-flight based laser range finding was studied using two different types of laser diode drivers. The study compares avalanche bipolar junction transistor (BJT) and metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor switch based laser pulse drivers, both producing 1.35 ns current pulse length (full width at half maximum), and investigates how the slowly rising part of the current pulse of the avalanche BJT based driver affects the leading edge timing walk. The walk error was measured to be very similar with both drivers within an input signal dynamic range of 1:10 000 (receiver bandwidth of 700 MHz) but increased rapidly with the avalanche BJT based driver at higher values of dynamic range. The slowly rising part does not exist in the current pulse produced by the metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) based laser driver, and thus the MOS based driver can be utilized in a wider dynamic range.
Spherical wire arrays electrical explosion in water and glycerol
Authors: Rososhek A. , Efimov S. , Nitishinski M. , Yanuka D. , Tewari S. V. , Gurovich V. Tz. , Khishchenko K. , Krasik Ya. E.
Published: December 2017

The results of experiments and one-dimensional (1D) hydrodynamic (HD) simulations of electrical explosions of spherical Cu wire arrays in water and glycerol for various stored energy of the pulse generator and sphere diameters are presented and discussed. It was found that the convergence of the shock wave generated by an exploding spherical wire array in glycerol is significantly faster than in water. The resulting pressure in the vicinity of the implosion center is several times larger in glycerol than in water. Increasing the initially stored energy from 3.6 to 6.1 kJ (for identical array diameters) or decreasing the sphere diameter from 30 to 20 mm (for identical stored energy) leads to an increase in the pressure, temperature, and density in the vicinity of the implosion center. The pressure in a spherical volume of ∼0.2 mm in diameter at the origin of the sphere is estimated by 1D HD simulations to be in excess of 1012 Pa.
Electron detachment of hydrogen anion in collisions with hydrogen molecule studied by surface hopping classical trajectory calculations
Authors: Belyaev A. K. , Tiukanov A. S. , Toropkin A. I. , Alexandrovich O. V.
Published: December 2017

We employ the on-the-fly surface hopping classical trajectory algorithm to study the electron detachment process in low-energy H− + H2 collisions. The ground-state and the first-excited-state Local Complex Potentials (LCPs) calculated by the generalized diatomics-in-molecule method are used for the full three-dimensional nonadiabatic nuclear dynamics. Two kinds of nonadiabatic effects are taken into account: discrete-discrete transitions and discrete-continuous transitions. Discrete-discrete nonadiabatic transition probabilities are calculated by means of the adiabatic-potential-based formula within the Landau-Zener model for each individual trajectory computed along real parts of the LCPs. Discrete-continuous (electron detachment) nonadiabatic transition probabilities are calculated via quasi-stationary widths which are related to the imaginary parts of the LCPs of both the electronic states of the H3− anion. Two mechanisms of the electron detachment process are treated and discussed: the direct mechanism based on quasi-stationarity of the ground state and the indirect mechanism based on both nonadiabatic transitions from the ground state to the first excited state and quasi-stationarity of the excited state. It is shown that the direct mechanism prevails at low collision energies, while the indirect mechanism makes a substantial contribution at relatively high collision energies, roughly higher than 5 eV. At collision energies higher than 2 eV, the electron detachment probability has rather high values and this affects noticeably other inelastic processes in these collisions. The electron detachment cross section in H− + H2 collisions is calculated for the collision energy range from 1 to 100 eV and a reasonable agreement with available experimental data is obtained.
Composite Fe3O4–W(100) probes for scanning tunneling microscopy
Authors: Bozhko Sergey I. , Chekmazov Sergey V. , Usov Victor , Lübben Olaf , Ionov Andrey M. , Wu Han-Chun , Semenov Valery N. , Nesterova Maria E. , Krasnikov Sergey A. , Shvets Igor V.
Published: December 2017

A new two-step technique was developed to fabricate a composite probe for a Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM). The first step was to form a flat area on the W(100) surface of several hundred square nanometers or less in an area at the end of a single crystalline tungsten tip. The second step consisted of epitaxial growth of a nanoparticle on this flat area by molecular beam epitaxy. Both atomic resolution imaging on the MoO2/Mo(110) surface covered with Fe nanoclusters and magnetic contrast on Fe nanoclusters were obtained at T = 78 K as an indication of an excellent performance and stability of the composite STM probe. The developed technique of composite probes formation is very promising for the fabrication of probes with the required physical characteristics.
One-dimensional particle simulation of wave propagation and generation of second harmonic waves in a composite of plasma and metamaterial
Authors: Iwai Akinori , Sakai Osamu , Omura Yoshiharu
Published: December 2017

One-dimensional electromagnetic particle simulations are performed with the combination of the overdense plasma and the negative-permeability state (metamaterial). Transverse electromagnetic waves enter the plasma-metamaterial composite, and the waves propagate in it with a negative phase velocity and a positive group velocity. We confirm that the plasma-metamaterial composite has a negative refractive index. The dispersion relation of the composite has the propagation band under the plasma frequency, and we confirm this band by theoretical calculations with the kinetic effects and by particle simulations. When the phase velocity approaches the thermal velocity of the electrons, we find the damping of the transverse wave in the propagation band. The propagating transverse waves generate the propagating second harmonic waves throughout the composite. The intensities of the second harmonic waves are enhanced because the fundamental frequency waves are efficiently injected into the overdense plasma with the metamaterial since the refractive index is not imaginary but real with negative values.
Component investigation of ionization stages on tungsten unresolved transition array spectra for plasma diagnostics based on space-resolved extreme-ultra violet spectroscopy in large helical device
Authors: Liu Yang , Morita Shigeru , Huang Xianli , Oishi Tetsutarou , Goto Motoshi , Zhang Hongming
Published: December 2017

A series of experiments on tungsten spectroscopy has been carried out in a Large Helical Device with tungsten pellet injection to study the tungsten spectra. In particular, understanding of an unresolved transition array (UTA) is still insufficient, whereas the UTA is very important for the diagnostics and transport study of tungsten ions in edge plasmas of International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor. For the purpose, extreme-ultra violet (EUV) spectra of UTA observed in the wavelength range of 15 Å–70 Å are analyzed at two different wavelength intervals of 15–45 Å and 45–70 Å, which mainly consist of Δn = 1, 2 and Δn = 0 transitions for n = 4 partially ionized tungsten ions, respectively. At first, the UTA line intensity is analyzed against central electron temperature at the temperature recovery phase after the pellet injection to examine the presence of blended lines. Next, vertical profiles measured with two space-resolved EUV spectrometers are analyzed against electron temperature profiles for further precise investigation of the UTA spectra. For the analysis, local emissivity profiles are obtained from the measured vertical intensity profiles with the Abel inversion method based on magnetic surface structures calculated by the VMEC code. It is then possible to investigate the ionization stage of tungsten ions comprising the UTA. As a result, it is found that the wavelength intervals of 49.24 Å ≤ λ  ≤  49.46 Å, 48.81 Å ≤ λ  ≤  49.03 Å, and 47.94 Å ≤ λ  ≤  48.15 Å, which are identified as W27+, W26+, and W24+, respectively, are applicable to the tungsten diagnostics. The result of the line component analysis on the tungsten UTA is summarized in tables.
Crystallographic properties and electronic structure of V-doped AlN films that absorb near ultraviolet-visible-infrared light
Authors: Tatemizo N. , Imada S. , Miura Y. , Nishio K. , Isshiki T.
Published: December 2017

For highly efficient photoconversion devices, 3d-transition-metal-doped AlN is a candidate intermediate-band material. Here, we synthesized and investigated V-doped AlN (AlVN; V ≤ 11%) films. The optical absorption spectra of the films showed characteristic features including a peak in the infrared region and shoulders in the visible light region. These features remained essentially unchanged for the various V concentrations. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and V K-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements were carried out to clarify the crystallographic origin of the optical absorption features. The XRD profiles revealed that all films had a c-axis-oriented wurtzite structure. The TEM analyses supported the XRD results. The V K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure indicated that the V atoms in the AlN lattice were surrounded by N atoms with non-centrosymmetric conditions and had an oxidation state close to 3+. Extended XAFS (EXAFS) analyses implied that the V atoms had C3v symmetry. The results of ab initio lattice relaxation calculations for a model wurtzite structure of an Al35V1N36 supercell were consistent with the EXAFS data. Electronic structure calculations using this model showed that additional energy bands, mainly consisting of V d states, were formed in the band gap of AlN, and the Fermi level was between the additional bands. Hence, in the optical absorption spectra, the peak was explained by d-d transitions partially allowed thorough hybridization with the p component, and the shoulders were attributed to transitions from the valence band to the new bands in the band gap of AlN.
Atomically flat superconducting NbN thin films grown on SrTiO3 (111) by plasma-assisted MBE
Authors: Wang Guan-Yong , Zhu Zhen , Yang Xin-Yi , Dong Lu , Ma Hai-Yang , Sun Hao-Hua , Li Ai-Min , Guan Dan-Dan , Qian Dong , Liu Canhua , Li Yao-Yi , Jia Jin-Feng
Published: December 2017

Atomically flat superconducting NbN thin films have been grown on the SrTiO3 (111) substrate by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy for the first time. Using scanning tunneling microscopy and in situ reflection high energy electron diffraction, we investigate the surface structure of epitaxial NbN thin films on the SrTiO3 (111) substrate. The orientation [101¯]NbN//[112¯]STO is dominating at substrate temperature above 700 °C. The quality of the as-grown films can be further improved by annealing at elevated temperatures. The homogeneous spatial distribution of superconducting gaps and magnetic vortices further demonstrates the high quality of the NbN films.
Note: Modified anvil design for improved reliability in DT-Cup experiments
Authors: Hunt Simon A. , Dobson David P.
Published: December 2017

The Deformation T-Cup (DT-Cup) is a modified 6-8 multi-anvil apparatus capable of controlled strain-rate deformation experiments at pressures greater than 18 GPa. Controlled strain-rate deformation was enabled by replacing two of the eight cubic “second-stage” anvils with hexagonal cross section deformation anvils and modifying the “first-stage” wedges. However, with these modifications approximately two-thirds of experiments end with rupture of the hexagonal anvils. By replacing the hexagonal anvils with cubic anvils and, split, deformation wedge extensions, we restore the massive support to the deformation anvils that were inherent in the original multi-anvil design and prevent deformation anvil failure. With the modified parts, the DT-Cup has an experimental success rate that is similar to that of a standard hydrostatic 6-8 multi-anvil apparatus.
Analysis of electro-osmotic flow over a slightly bumpy plate
Authors: Lei Jie-Chao , Chen Yen-Sheng , Chang Chien C. , Wang Chang-Yi
Published: December 2017

The present study is aimed to investigate the effects of wavy roughness on electro-osmotic (EO) flow over a wavy plate. The waviness of the plate is modeled by the product of two cosinoidal functions, and the roughness (ε) is defined to be the ratio of the wavy amplitude to the Debye length. The effects are examined with respect to the roughness ε and different wave numbers (α and β) of the plate waviness. The analysis of the EO flow over the wavy plate is carried out for the applied electric potential, the potential for the electric double layer, as well as the EO flow velocity and pressure field under the Debye-Hückel approximation by using a boundary perturbation method. It is found that the velocity component along the direction of the applied electric field is modified by a second-order term of the roughness, though the same velocity component near the wavy wall exhibits periodic behaviors in phase with the plate waviness. The mean flow rate deficit (ε2μ2) due to the surface roughness presents a sophisticated dependence on the longitudinal wave number (α) and transverse wave number (β) of the plate waviness, yet the flow deficit is linear in α for small α at β = 0, and shows a long wavelength limit singularity at β = 0 for α ≠ 0.
Perspective: Acoustic metamaterials in transition
Authors: Wu Ying , Yang Min , Sheng Ping
Published: December 2017

Acoustic metamaterials derive their novel characteristics from the interaction between acoustic waves with designed structures. Since its inception seventeen years ago, the field has been driven by fundamental geometric and physical principles that guide the structure design rules as well as provide the basis for wave functionalities. Recent examples include resonance-based acoustic metasurfaces that offer flexible control of acoustic wave propagation such as focusing and re-direction; parity-time (PT)-symmetric acoustics that utilizes the general concept of pairing loss and gain to achieve perfect absorption at a single frequency; and topological phononics that can provide one-way edge state propagation. However, such novel functionalities are not without constraints. Metasurface elements rely on resonances to enhance their coupling to the incident wave; hence, its functionality is limited to a narrow frequency band. Topological phononics is the result of the special lattice symmetry that must be fixed at the fabrication stage. Overcoming such constraints naturally forms the basis for further developments. We identify two emergent directions: Integration of acoustic metamaterial elements for achieving broadband characteristics as well as acoustic wave manipulation tasks more complex than the single demonstrative functionality; and active acoustic metamaterials that can adapt to environment as well as to go beyond the constraints on the passive acoustic metamaterials. Examples of a successful recent integration of multi-resonators in achieving broadband sound absorption can be found in optimal sound-absorbing structures, which utilize causality constraint as a design tool in realizing the target-set absorption spectrum with a minimal sample thickness. Active acoustic metamaterials have also demonstrated the capability to tune bandgaps as well as to alter property of resonances in real time through stiffening of the spring constants, in addition to the PT symmetric acoustics that can achieve unprecedented functionalities. These emergent directions portend the transitioning of the field from the stage of novelty demonstrations to imminent applications of some acoustic metamaterials to select real-world problems, supported by an active research endeavor that continues to push the boundary of possibilities.
Janus modes of Hasegawa plasma waves in a streaming and tempestuous plasma pillar
Authors: Lee Myoung-Jae , Chung Kyu-Sun , Jamil M. , Rasheed A. , Jung Young-Dae
Published: December 2017

Janus modes of the damping and growing of Hasegawa plasma waves are studied in a plasma pillar containing the dissipation and the beam energy deposition caused by tempestuous electrons and streaming ions. We find that the Janus modes split into the upper- and the lower-modes. For the upper-mode, the imaginary part of the wave frequency is negative for any parameters so that the corresponding Hasegawa space-charge plasma wave is always damped away. We found that the damping rate of the upper-mode decreases with a reduction of the pillar radius and a raising of the degree of the harmonic-roots. However, for the lower-mode, called lower-Janus mode, the wave can be either damped away or growing, depending on the wave number, streaming velocity, and geometric factor. The lower-Janus mode can be a pure growing wave with a reduction of the pillar radius. Interestingly, this growing mode turns to damping as the wave number decreases.
Assessing the hazards of trace metals in different land use types around a coastal wetland nature reserve in China
Authors: Xu Lingqian , Jeelani Nasreen , Fang Shubo , An Shuqing , Hou Aixin
Published: December 2017

An understanding of trace metal pollution due to reclamation activities around Yancheng National Nature Reserve is important for the utilisation and management of the reserve and surrounding coastal and marine areas. In the present study, we evaluated the current state of Cu, Cd, Pb and Zn pollution (total concentrations and ecological risk), their potential hazard (availability index and desorption rate) and soil properties (cation exchange capacity, iron and manganese oxide content, soil organic matter, salinity and pH) in different land use types around this nature reserve. Although the current state of trace metal pollution was not severe, the potential hazards of these trace metals should not be ignored, especially for Cd because of its significantly higher availability index values in farmlands and aquaculture ponds than in natural habitats (by 33 and 32% of the total amount of Cd respectively). Thus, strict monitoring and environmentally responsible land reclamation management practices should be considered for these coastal areas.