bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron tomography and fractal aspects of MoS2 and MoS2/Co spheres
Authors: Ramos Manuel , Galindo-Hernández Félix , Arslan Ilke , Sanders Toby , Domínguez José Manuel
Published: September 2017

A study was made by a combination of 3D electron tomography reconstruction methods and N2adsorption for determining the fractal dimension for nanometric MoS2and MoS2/Co catalyst particles.DFTmethods including Neimarke-Kiselev’s method allowed to determine the particle porosity and fractal arrays at the atomic scale for the S-Mo-S(Co) 2D- layers that conform the spherically shaped catalyst particles. A structural and textural correlation was sought by further characterization performed by x-ray Rietveld refinement and Radial Distribution Function (RDF) methods, electron density maps, computational density functional theory methods and nitrogen adsorption methods altogether, for studying the structural and textural features of spherical MoS2and MoS2/Co particles. Neimark-Kiselev’s equations afforded the evaluation of a pore volume variation from 10 to 110 cm3/g by cobalt insertion in the MoS2crystallographic lattice, which induces the formation of cavities and throats in between of less than 29 nm, with a curvature radiusrk < 14.4 nm; typical large needle-like arrays having 20 2D layers units correspond to a model consisting of smooth surfaces within these cavities. DecreasingDP,DB,DIandDMvalues occur when Co atoms are present in the MoS2laminates, which promote the formation of smoother edges and denser surfaces that have an influence on the catalytic properties of the S-Mo-S(Co) system.
CB1 Receptor Activation on VgluT2-Expressing Glutamatergic Neurons Underlies Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)-Induced Aversive Effects in Mice
Authors: Han Xiao , He Yi , Bi Guo-Hua , Zhang Hai-Ying , Song Rui , Liu Qing-Rong , Egan Josephine M. , Gardner Eliot L. , Li Jing , Xi Zheng-Xiong
Published: September 2017

Cannabis can be rewarding or aversive. Cannabis reward is believed to be mediated by activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors (CB1Rs) on GABAergic neurons that disinhibit dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying cannabis aversion in rodents. In the present study, CB1Rs are found not only on VTA GABAergic neurons, but also on VTA glutamatergic neurons that express vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VgluT2). We then used Cre-Loxp transgenic technology to selectively delete CB1Rs in VgluT2-expressing glutamatergic neurons (VgluT2-CB1−/−) and Cre-dependent viral vector to express light-sensitive channelrhodopsin-2 into VTA glutamatergic neurons. We found that photoactivation of VTA glutamatergic neurons produced robust intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) behavior, which was dose-dependently blocked by DA receptor antagonists, but enhanced by cocaine. In contrast, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the major psychoactive component of cannabis, produced dose-dependent conditioned place aversion and a reduction in the above optical ICSS in VgluT2-cre control mice, but not in VgluT2-CB1−/− mice. These findings suggest that activation of CB1Rs in VgluT2-expressing glutamate neurons produces aversive effects that might explain why cannabinoid is not rewarding in rodents and might also account for individual differences in the hedonic effects of cannabis in humans.
Chromophore Renewal and Fluorogen-Binding Tags: A Match Made to Last
Authors: Pimenta Frederico M. , Chiappetta Giovanni , Le Saux Thomas , Vinh Joëlle , Jullien Ludovic , Gautier Arnaud
Published: September 2017

Fluorogen-binding tags, which activate the fluorescence of a specific chromophore (so-called fluorogen) upon reversible binding, have recently been proposed as a way of reducing photobleaching via fluorogen renewal. However, no generic methodology has been proposed to systematically analyze the photodamage of the fluorogen and the protein tag. Using Y-FAST (Yellow Fluorescence-activating and Absorption-Shifting Tag) as a case study we propose here a generic experimental and theoretical approach to assess how fluorogen renewal reduces the apparent photobleaching rate of a fluorogen-binding tag. Y-FAST has its apparent photobleaching rate greatly reduced by fluorogen renewal and its photostability is mainly limited by oxidation of specific residues in the protein scaffold by reactive oxygen species generated by the bound fluorogen. This study sets the groundwork for the optimization of fluorogenic systems, helping guide rational improvements to their photostability.
The Impact of Self-Reported Sleep on Caesarean Delivery in Women Undergoing Induction of Labour: A Prospective Study
Authors: Teong Aimee Chuin Ai , Diong Annabella Xinhui , Omar Siti Zawiah , Tan Peng Chiong
Published: September 2017

216 women admitted for labour induction were recruited to evaluate sleep duration and other sleep measures on Caesarean delivery risk. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Berlin (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), Epworth Sleepiness Scale, International Restless Leg Syndrome, Insomnia Symptom Questionnaires were applied. Short sleep duration was defined as reported night sleep length in the previous month below the study population median of 6 hours. After binomial analysis, Caesarean delivery after labour induction is associated with short sleep duration (RR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-2.9, P = 0.018), nulliparity, Bishop Score, prepregnant BMI and birth weight at P < 0.05. After adjustment for nulliparity, Bishop Score, prepregnant BMI and birth weight, short sleep duration remains independently predictive of Caesarean delivery AOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1-5.0, P = 0.026. Women at high risk for OSA has a non-significant result on binomial analysis, RR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0-2.7, P = 0.073. In a sensitivity analysis which includes OSA in the multivariable logistic regression model, OSA’s predictive effect is attenuated AOR 1.2, 95% CI 0.4-3.2, P = 0.782 whilst short sleep duration remains significant AOR 2.3 95% CI 1.0-5.1, P = 0.039. Other evaluated sleep measures are not predictive of Caesarean delivery.
Ethanol-triggered Lipophagy Requires SQSTM1 in AML12 Hepatic Cells
Authors: Wang Lin , Zhou Jun , Yan Shengmin , Lei Guangsheng , Lee Chao-Hung , Yin Xiao-Ming
Published: September 2017

Ethanol-induced hepatic lipophagy plays an important cytoprotective role against liver injury, but its mechanism is not fully determined. In the present study, ethanol-induced lipophagy was studied in an immortalized mouse hepatocyte line, AML12. We found that ethanol treatment elevated lipid content in these cells, which could be regulated by autophagy. To determine the potential mechanism, we investigated the role of a key adaptor molecule SQSTM1/p62. SQSTM1 can bind to LC3 on autophagosomes and ubiquitinated molecules on cargos, thus facilitating the autophagic engulfment of the cargo. We found that both LC3 and SQSTM1 could colocalize with lipid droplets (LDs) following ethanol treatment. Colocalization of LC3 with LDs was significantly inhibited by SQSTM1 knockdown, which also reduced ethanol-induced lipid elevation. In addition, increased ubiquitin signals were found to colocalize with SQSTM1 on LDs in response to ethanol. Moreover, the SQSTM1 signal was colocalized with that of perilipin1, a major protein on LDs. Finally, perilipin1 knockdown significantly altered ethanol-induced lipophagy. Taken together, these data support a model in which autophagosomes were directed to the LDs via SQSTM1, which bound to ubiquitinated proteins, possibly including perilipin 1, on LDs. This study provides a potential mechanistic explanation to how ethanol induces lipophagy in hepatocytes.
The impact of long-term oceanic warming on the Antarctic Oscillation in austral winter
Authors: Hao Xin , He Shengping , Wang Huijun , Han Tingting
Published: September 2017

Increasing greenhouse gas concentration and ozone depletion are generally considered two important factors that affect the variability of the Antarctic Oscillation (AAO). Here, we find that the first leading mode of sea surface temperature (SST) variability (rotated empirical orthogonal functions) shows a long-term upward trend from 1901 to 2004 and is closely related to the AAO index that is obtained using the observationally constrained reanalysis data. Further, regressions of the sea level pressure and the 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies, against the principle component associated with the long-term SST anomalies, display a seesaw behavior between the middle and high latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere in austral winter, which is similar to the high polarity of the AAO. The circulation responses to the long-term oceanic warming in three numerical models are consistent with the observed results. This finding suggests that the long-term oceanic warming is partly responsible for the upward trend of the AAO in austral winter. The thermal wind response to the oceanic warming in South Indian and South Atlantic Ocean may be a possible mechanism for this process.
Discovery of a Low Toxicity O-GlcNAc Transferase (OGT) Inhibitor by Structure-based Virtual Screening of Natural Products
Authors: Liu Yubo , Ren Yang , Cao Yu , Huang Huang , Wu Qiong , Li Wenli , Wu Sijin , Zhang Jianing
Published: September 2017

O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) plays an important role in regulating numerous cellular processes through reversible post-translational modification of nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins. However, the function of O-GlcNAcylation is still not well understood. Cell permeable OGT inhibitors are needed to manipulate O-GlcNAcylation levels and clarify the regulatory mechanism of this modification. Here, we report a specific natural-product OGT inhibitor (L01), which was identified from a structure-based virtual screening analysis. L01 inhibited O-GlcNAcylation both in vitro and in cells without significantly altering cell surface glycans. Molecular dynamics and site-directed mutagenesis indicated a new binding mechanism in which L01 could interact with Asn557 near the UDP binding pocket of OGT. This residue may contribute to the specificity of L01. Furthermore, as a specific OGT inhibitor, L01 produced low toxicity in cellular and zebrafish models. The identification of L01 validates structure-based virtual screening approaches for the discovery of OGT inhibitors. L01 can also serve as a chemical tool to further characterize O-GlcNAcylation functions or a new molecular core for structure-activity relationship studies to optimize the biochemical potencies.
Endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of GluA2/3 AMPARs in response to oxygen/glucose deprivation in hippocampal but not cortical neurons
Authors: Koszegi Zsombor , Fiuza Maria , Hanley Jonathan G.
Published: September 2017

Global cerebral ischemia results in oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) and consequent delayed cell death of vulnerable neurons, with hippocampal CA1 neurons more vulnerable than cortical neurons. Most AMPA receptors (AMPARs) are heteromeric complexes of subunits GluA1/GluA2 or GluA2/GluA3, and the presence of GluA2 renders AMPARs Ca2+-impermeable. In hippocampal CA1 neurons, OGD causes the synaptic expression of GluA2-lacking Ca2+-permeable AMPARs, contributing to toxic Ca2+ influx. The loss of synaptic GluA2 is caused by rapid trafficking of GluA2-containing AMPARs from the cell surface, followed by a delayed reduction in GluA2 mRNA expression. We show here that OGD causes endocytosis, lysosomal targeting and consequent degradation of GluA2- and GluA3-containing AMPARs, and that PICK1 is required for both OGD-induced GluA2 endocytosis and lysosomal sorting. Our results further suggest that GluA1-containing AMPARs resist OGD-induced endocytosis. OGD does not cause GluA2 endocytosis in cortical neurons, and we show that PICK1 binding to the endocytic adaptor AP2 is enhanced by OGD in hippocampal, but not cortical neurons. We propose that endocytosis of GluA2/3, caused by a hippocampal-specific increase in PICK1-AP2 interactions, followed by PICK1-dependent lysosomal targeting, are critical events in determining changes in AMPAR subunit composition in the response to ischaemia.
Molecular imaging using an anti-human tissue factor monoclonal antibody in an orthotopic glioma xenograft model
Authors: Takashima Hiroki , Tsuji Atsushi B. , Saga Tsuneo , Yasunaga Masahiro , Koga Yoshikatsu , Kuroda Jun-ichiro , Yano Shigetoshi , Kuratsu Jun-ichi , Matsumura Yasuhiro
Published: September 2017

Nuclear medicine examinations for imaging gliomas have been introduced into clinical practice to evaluate the grade of malignancy and determine sampling locations for biopsies. However, these modalities have some limitations. Tissue factor (TF) is overexpressed in various types of cancers, including gliomas. We thus generated an anti-human TF monoclonal antibody (mAb) clone 1849. In the present study, immunohistochemistry performed on glioma specimens using anti-TF 1849 mAb showed that TF expression in gliomas increased in proportion to the grade of malignancy based on the World Health Organization (WHO) classification, and TF was remarkably expressed in necrosis and pseudopalisading cells, the histopathological hallmarks of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Furthermore, in both fluorescence and single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging studies, anti-TF 1849 IgG efficiently accumulated in TF-overexpressing intracranial tumours in mice. Although further investigation is required for a future clinical use of immuno-SPECT with 111In-labelled anti-TF 1849 IgG, the immuno-SPECT may represent a unique imaging modality that can visualize the biological characteristics of gliomas differently from those obtained using the existing imaging modalities and may be useful to evaluate the grade of malignancy and determine sampling locations for biopsies in patients with glioma, particularly GBM.
Nitric oxide-activatable gold nanoparticles for specific targeting and photo-thermal ablation of macrophages
Authors: Park Junghong , Pramanick Swapan , Kim Jinhwan , Lee Jihyun , Kim Won Jong
Published: September 2017

Nitric oxide-activatable gold nanoparticles can be utilized as a useful NO sensing tool and a photo-thermal agent for specific inflammation-associated macrophages.
General optimization procedure towards the design of a new family of minimal parameter spin-component-scaled double-hybrid density functional theory
Authors: Roch Loïc M. , Baldridge Kim K.
Published: September 2017

A general optimization procedure towards the development and implementation of a new family of minimal parameter spin-component-scaled double-hybrid (mSD) density functional theory (DFT) is presented.
Enhancing thermoelectric performance of Cu2Se by doping Te
Authors: Zhu Yong-Bin , Zhang Bo-Ping , Liu Yong
Published: September 2017

Owing to the excellent electrical properties and inherently complex crystal structure, Cu2Se has been considered as a promising thermoelectric (TE) material.
Synthesis of metastable chromium carbide nanomaterials and their electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Schmuecker Samantha M. , Clouser Dale , Kraus Theodore J. , Leonard Brian M.
Published: September 2017

Using a low temperature salt flux method, 5 phases of chromium carbide were synthesized including rare phases CrC and Cr2C.
Atomic spectrometry update: review of advances in the analysis of metals, chemicals and materials
Authors: Carter Simon , Fisher Andy , Gibson Bridget , Marshall John , Russell Ben , Whiteside Ian
Published: September 2017

This review covers advances in the analysis of advanced materials, metals, fuels and lubricants, nanostructures, ceramics, refractories, organic and inorganic chemicals, catalysts and nuclear materials by a range of techniques including X-ray, ICP, LIBS, mass spectrometry, synchrotron-based techniques, plus non-destructive and ablation surface techniques.
Principles and methods used to grow and optimize crystals of protein–metallodrug adducts, to determine metal binding sites and to assign metal ligands
Authors: Russo Krauss Irene , Ferraro Giarita , Pica Andrea , Márquez José A. , Helliwell John R. , Merlino Antonello
Published: September 2017

Examples from the literature and experience in our own laboratory on the characterization of the interactions between biological macromolecules and metal-based drugs are provided.
Gradient in defect density of ZnO nanorods grown by cathodic delamination, a corrosion process, leads to end-specific luminescence
Authors: Iqbal Danish , Sarfraz Adnan , Erbe Andreas
Published: September 2017

The luminescence from both ends of a ZnO nanorod grown via a corrosion process is significantly different.
Umbelliferone–oxindole hybrids as novel apoptosis inducing agents
Authors: Nagarsenkar Atulya , Guntuku Lalita , Prajapti Santosh Kumar , Guggilapu Sravanthi Devi , Sonar Rajkiran , Vegi Ganga Modi Naidu , Babu Bathini Nagendra
Published: September 2017

Synthesis and biological evaluation of umbelliferone–oxindole hybrids as novel apoptosis inducing agents.
Extreme tuning of wetting on 1D nanostructures: from a superhydrophilic to a perfect hydrophobic surface
Authors: Ali A. A. , Haidar A. , Polonskyi O. , Faupel F. , Abdul-Khaliq H. , Veith M. , Aktas O. C.
Published: September 2017

The tuning of wetting over an extreme range, from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic, was demonstrated on 1D Al/Al2O3 nanostructures.
Nonmetallic carbon monoxide releasing molecules (CORMs)
Authors: Abeyrathna Nawodi , Washington Kenyatta , Bashur Christopher , Liao Yi
Published: September 2017

Recent progress on nonmetallic carbon monoxide releasing molecules (CORMs) is reviewed.
Synthetically useful variants of industrial lipases from Burkholderia cepacia and Pseudomonas fluorescens
Authors: Yoshida Kazunori , Ono Masakazu , Yamamoto Takahiro , Utsumi Takashi , Koikeda Satoshi , Ema Tadashi
Published: September 2017

The double mutants of industrial lipases, LPS_L287F/I290A and LAK_V287F/I290A, exhibited high catalytic activity and enantioselectivity for originally poor substrates.
Copper promoted N-alkylation of sulfoximines with alkylboronic acid under mild conditions
Authors: Gupta Surabhi , Chaudhary Priyanka , Muniyappan Nalluchamy , Sabiah Shahulhameed , Kandasamy Jeyakumar
Published: September 2017

The copper meditatedN-alkylation of sulfoximines using alkylboronic acid is reported. The reactions provide excellent yields in a short span of time under mild conditions.
A copper(i)-catalyzed asymmetric Mannich reaction of glycine Schiff bases with isatin-derived ketimines: enantioselective synthesis of 3-substituted 3-aminooxindoles
Authors: Zhu Jing-Yan , Yang Wu-Lin , Liu Yang-Zi , Shang Shao-Jing , Deng Wei-Ping
Published: September 2017

We have developed a copper/Ph-Phosferrox-catalyzed asymmetric Mannich reaction of Schiff bases with isatin-derived ketimines to prepare 3-substituted 3-aminooxindoles with excellent results.
Bimodal counterpropagating-responsive sensing material for the detection of histamine
Authors: Wu Zhengzong , Xu Enbo , Jiao Aiquan , Jin Zhengyu , Irudayaraj Joseph
Published: September 2017

A dual-mode system for simultaneous fluorescence and SERS sensing of histamine.
High-throughput lipidomics enables discovery of the mode of action of huaxian capsule impacting the metabolism of sepsis
Authors: Liang Qun , Zhu Yongzhi , Liu Han , Li Bingbing , Zhang Ai-Hua
Published: September 2017

Severe sepsis (SS) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the intensive care unit and requires rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Arbitrary alignment-angle control method of electrospun fibers: potential for a stretchable electrode material
Authors: Youn Doo-Hyeb , Yeon Changbong , Choi Jin Sik , Park Nae-Man , Lee Inyeal , Kim Gil-Ho , Yun Sun Jin
Published: September 2017

This paper presents a method by which it is possible to control the align-angle arbitrarily from vertical to horizontal demonstrating a mechanical stretch of as much as 120%. Fibers are aligned directly onto the sample surface.
Second-order nonlinear optical switching with a record-high contrast for a photochromic and thermochromic bistable crystal
Authors: Xing Xiu-Shuang , Sa Rong-Jian , Li Pei-Xin , Zhang Ning-Ning , Zhou Zhong-Yuan , Liu Bin-Wen , Liu Jie , Wang Ming-Sheng , Guo Guo-Cong
Published: September 2017

The first bistable NLO crystalline compound with both photo- and heat-induced SHG-switching behavior shows a record-high photoinduced SHG-switching contrast.
Hydrogen generation from methanol at near-room temperature
Authors: Shen Yangbin , Zhan Yulu , Li Shuping , Ning Fandi , Du Ying , Huang Yunjie , He Ting , Zhou Xiaochun
Published: September 2017

We successfully designed an effective strategy to fully convert methanol to hydrogen for at least 1900 min (∼32 h) at near-room temperature.
Liquid-crystal order during synthesis affects main-chain liquid-crystal elastomer behavior
Authors: Traugutt N. A. , Volpe R. H. , Bollinger M. S. , Saed M. O. , Torbati A. H. , Yu K. , Dadivanyan Natalia , Yakacki C. M.
Published: September 2017

This study presents the first direct comparison of the influence of liquid-crystal order during synthesis on the thermo-mechanical behaviors of main-chain liquid-crystal elastomers (LCEs) in thiol–acrylate networks.
Wrinkled labyrinths in critical demixing ferrofluid
Authors: Wilke Natalia , Bugase Jonas , Treffenstädt Lisa-Marie , Fischer Thomas M.
Published: September 2017

Wrinkles of two length scales forms in a critical ferrofluid mixture that decomposes into two phases under the application of an external magnetic field.
Rehealable imide–imine hybrid polymers with full recyclability
Authors: Lei Xingfeng , Jin Yinghua , Sun Hongliang , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2017

Mechanically strong yet rehealable and recyclable thermosets were achieved through hybridization of rigid imide moieties and dynamic imine linkages.
Tuning the A-site cation composition of FA perovskites for efficient and stable NiO-based p–i–n perovskite solar cells
Authors: Hu Chen , Bai Yang , Xiao Shuang , Zhang Teng , Meng Xiangyue , Ng Wai Kit , Yang Yinglong , Wong Kam Sing , Chen Haining , Yang Shihe
Published: September 2017

Cation mixing has proved to be effective in stabilizing the high-temperature phase of formamidinium (FA)-based perovskites, affording high-performance n–i–p perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
Sustainable antireflection using recoverable nanopattern arrays
Authors: Park Juhyuk , Youn Jae Ryoun , Song Young Seok
Published: September 2017

This research proposes a unique antireflection (AR) strategy which is to infuse shape recovery ability into nanopattern arrays for obtaining high sustainability of the AR nanostructures.
Construction of GaN/Ga2O3 p–n junction for an extremely high responsivity self-powered UV photodetector
Authors: Li Peigang , Shi Haoze , Chen Kai , Guo Daoyou , Cui Wei , Zhi Yusong , Wang Shunli , Wu Zhenping , Chen Zhengwei , Tang Weihua
Published: September 2017

A self-powered ultraviolet photodetector with an extremely high responsivity (54.43 mA W−1) was fabricated by constructing p–n junction of GaN/Ga2O3 films.
Sb-Doped ZnO microwires: emitting filament and homojunction light-emitting diodes
Authors: He Gaohang , Jiang Mingming , Li Binghui , Zhang Zhenzhong , Zhao Haifeng , Shan Chongxin , Shen Dezhen
Published: September 2017

Individual Sb-doped p-type ZnO (ZnO:Sb) microwires have been synthesized, and could be used to construct wavelength-tuning emitting filaments in the visible region. Meanwhile, ZnO:Sb microwires are applied to fabricate homojunction ultraviolet light-emitting diodes.
Escherichia coli and Neisseria gonorrhoeae UvrD helicase unwinds G4 DNA structures
Authors: Shukla Kaustubh , Thakur Roshan Singh , Ganguli Debayan , Rao Desirazu Narasimha , Nagaraju Ganesh
Published: September 2017

G-quadruplex (G4) secondary structures have been implicated in various biological processes, including gene expression, DNA replication and telomere maintenance. However, unresolved G4 structures impede replication progression which can lead to the generation of DNA double-strand breaks and genome instability. Helicases have been shown to resolve G4 structures to facilitate faithful duplication of the genome. Escherichia coli UvrD (EcUvrD) helicase plays a crucial role in nucleotide excision repair, mismatch repair and in the regulation of homologous recombination. Here, we demonstrate a novel role of E. coli and Neisseria gonorrhoeae UvrD in resolving G4 tetraplexes. EcUvrD and N. gonorrhoeae UvrD were proficient in unwinding previously characterized tetramolecular G4 structures. Notably, EcUvrD was equally efficient in resolving tetramolecular and bimolecular G4 DNA that were derived from the potential G4-forming sequences from the genome of E. coli. Interestingly, in addition to resolving intermolecular G4 structures, EcUvrD was robust in unwinding intramolecular G4 structures. These data for the first time provide evidence for the role of UvrD in the resolution of G4 structures, which has implications for the in vivo role of UvrD helicase in G4 DNA resolution and genome maintenance.
CRISPR-based tools for plant genome engineering
Authors: Volpi e Silva Nathalia , Patron Nicola J.
Published: September 2017

Molecular tools adapted from bacterial CRISPR (clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeat) adaptive immune systems have been demonstrated in an increasingly wide range of plant species. They have been applied for the induction of targeted mutations in one or more genes as well as for directing the integration of new DNA to specific genomic loci. The construction of molecular tools for multiplexed CRISPR-mediated editing in plants has been facilitated by cloning techniques that allow multiple sequences to be assembled together in a single cloning reaction. Modifications of the canonical Cas9 protein from Streptococcus pyogenes and the use of nucleases from other bacteria have increased the diversity of genomic sequences that can be targeted and allow the delivery of protein cargos such as transcriptional activators and repressors. Furthermore, the direct delivery of protein–RNA complexes to plant cells and tissues has enabled the production of engineered plants without the delivery or genomic integration of foreign DNA. Here, we review toolkits derived from bacterial CRISPR systems for targeted mutagenesis, gene delivery and modulation of gene expression in plants, focusing on their composition and the strategies employed to reprogramme them for the recognition of specific genomic targets.
Smart two‐dimensional material‐based time modulated array for RFID applications
Authors: Aldrigo Martino , Masotti Diego , Dragoman Mircea
Published: September 2017

In this study, the authors present an original way to combine two promising technologies: time‐modulated arrays (TMAs) and two‐dimensional (2D) materials. The potentialities of TMAs are strongly enhanced by the exploitation of 2D‐based radiators, in particular, molybdenum disulphide (MoS2). The great ON/OFF ratio of MoS2 under the application of low bias voltages (up to 5 V in the case of monolayer materials) would allow creating antenna arrays with switching properties, i.e. selecting just a few of the array elements to radiate. This would represent a further degree of freedom in beam‐forming for wireless engineering applications. The proposed 2D‐TMA finds an application in high‐frequency RFID technology combined with wireless sensor networks. Throughout the study, the authors will show the benefits obtained from merging TMAs and 2D materials technology; furthermore, the authors will provide some experimental results on multi‐layer MoS2 characterisation and a theoretical prediction of the link budget performance in a RFID link. Both simulation and material measurement results are encouraging, opening the path to further research in high‐performance sensing networks that exploit the most innovative results in the domain of materials engineering.
Supercapacitor‐assisted low dropout regulator technique: a new design approach to achieve high‐efficiency linear DC–DC converters
Authors: Gunawardane Kosala , Kularatna Nihal
Published: September 2017

Approximate efficiency of a linear regulator is given by the ratio of regulated output voltage to input voltage. Higher voltage difference between the input and the output means a lower efficiency due to heavy losses in the series power semiconductor. Supercapacitor‐assisted low dropout regulator (SCALDO) is an emerging linear DC–DC converter technique, where a supercapacitor (SC) is used to reduce the voltage drop across the series transistor in a linear regulator where the SC acts as a lossless dropper. The circuit operates at a very low frequency decided by the size of the SC. An efficiency multiplication factor such as 1.33, 2, or 3 is achieved depending on the configuration. This study presents the essentials of its generalised theory, few prototype implementations, and a discussion on SCALDO properties. Typical efficiencies of 12–5 and 5–1.2 V linear regulators are around 42 and 24%, respectively. When SCALDO prototypes are built, the authors achieve respective end‐to‐end efficiencies of 79–81 and 58–73%. A loss analysis summary and further developments of the novel technique are also provided, in addition to a discussion to indicate that this is not a variation of the switched capacitor converters.
New inclination changing eclipsing binaries in the Magellanic Clouds
Authors: Juryšek J. , Zasche P. , Wolf M. , Vraštil J. , Vokrouhlický D. , Skarka M. , Liška J. , Janík J. , Zejda M. , Kurfürst P. , Paunzen E.
Published: September 2017

Context. Multiple stellar systems are unique laboratories for astrophysics. Analysis of their orbital dynamics, if well characterized from their observations, may reveal invaluable information about the physical properties of the participating stars. Unfortunately, there are only a few known and well described multiple systems, this is even more so for systems located outside the Milky Way galaxy. A particularly interesting situation occurs when the inner binary in a compact triple system is eclipsing. This is because the stellar interaction, typically resulting in precession of orbital planes, may be observable as a variation of depth of the eclipses on a long timescale.

Aims. We aim to present a novel method to determine compact triples using publicly available photometric data from large surveys. Here we apply it to eclipsing binaries (EBs) in Magellanic Clouds from OGLE III database. Our tool consists of identifying the cases where the orbital plane of EB evolves in accord with expectations from the interaction with a third star.

Methods. We analyzed light curves (LCs) of 26121 LMC and 6138 SMC EBs with the goal to identify those for which the orbital inclination varies in time. Archival LCs of the selected systems, when complemented by our own observations with Danish 1.54-m telescope, were thoroughly analyzed using the PHOEBE program. This provided physical parameters of components of each system. Time dependence of the EB’s inclination was described using the theory of orbital-plane precession. By observing the parameter-dependence of the precession rate, we were able to constrain the third companion mass and its orbital period around EB.

Results. We identified 58 candidates of new compact triples in Magellanic Clouds. This is the largest published sample of such systems so far. Eight of them were analyzed thoroughly and physical parameters of inner binary were determined together with an estimation of basic characteristics of the third star. Prior to our work, only one such system was well characterized outside the Milky Way galaxy. Therefore, we increased this sample in a significant way. These data may provide important clues about stellar formation mechanisms for objects with different metalicity than found in our galactic neighborhood.
The GTC exoplanet transit spectroscopy survey
Authors: Parviainen H. , Pallé E. , Chen G. , Nortmann L. , Murgas F. , Nowak G. , Aigrain S. , Booth A. , Abazorius M. , Iro N.
Published: September 2017

Aims. We set out to study the atmosphere of WASP-80b, a warm inflated gas giant with an equilibrium temperature of ~800 K, using ground-based transmission spectroscopy covering the spectral range from 520 to 910 nm. The observations allow us to probe the existence and abundance of K and Na in WASP-80b’s atmosphere, existence of high-altitude clouds, and Rayleigh-scattering in the blue end of the spectrum.

Methods. We observed two spectroscopic time series of WASP-80b transits with the OSIRIS spectrograph installed in the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC), and use the observations to estimate the planet’s transmission spectrum between 520 nm and 910 nm in 20 nm-wide passbands, and around the K I and Na I resonance doublets in 6 nm-wide passbands. We jointly model three previously published broadband datasets consisting of 27 light curves, prior to a transmission spectroscopy analysis in order to obtain improved estimates of the planet’s orbital parameters, average radius ratio, and stellar density. The parameter posteriors from the broadband analysis are used to set informative priors on the transmission spectroscopy analysis. The final transmission spectroscopy analyses are carried out jointly for the two nights using a divide-by-white approach to remove the common-mode systematics, and Gaussian processes to model the residual wavelength-dependent systematics.

Results. We recover a flat transmission spectrum with no evidence of Rayleigh scattering or K I or Na I absorption, and obtain an improved system characterisation as a by-product of the broadband- and GTC-dataset modelling. The transmission spectra estimated separately from the two observing runs are consistent with each other, as are the transmission spectra estimated using either a parametric or nonparametric systematics model. The flat transmission spectrum favours an atmosphere model with high-altitude clouds over cloud-free models with stellar or sub-stellar metallicities.

Conclusions. Our results disagree with the recently published discovery of strong K I absorption in WASP-80b’s atmosphere based on ground-based transmission spectroscopy with FORS2 at VLT.
The Correlation Between Circulating Betatrophin and Insulin Resistance in General Population: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xu Jinling , Lin Yanyan , Zhou Hui , Zhao Linshuang , Xiang Guangda
Published: September 2017

Many inconsistent findings are reported on the correlation between circulating betatrophin and insulin resistance in the different population. The aim of this analysis was to explore the correlation between the level of betatrophin and insulin resistance in the general population. The databases of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (inception to October 26, 2016) were searched without language restrictions for publications that reported studies on associations between betatrophin and insulin resistance in adults. Subgroup analyses were performed to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity. The pooled effect size was calculated using a random-effects model. Twenty-five studies were included in this meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed that betatrophin was positively and significantly correlated with insulin resistance (r=0.16, 95% CI: 0.08–0.25). When all participants were divided into DM, GDM, and Non-DM groups, this association was also significant in T2DM, GDM, and Non-DM participants (T2DM: r=0.09, 95% CI: 0.01–0.17; I
2=45.1%; GDM: r=0.39, 95% CI: 0.24–0.55; I
2=0.0%; non-DM: r=0.15, 95% CI: 0.04–0.26; I
2=89.3%), and it was obvious that heterogeneity existed in Non-DM group (I
2=89.3%, p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that gender, serum sample and ELISA kits for full-length betatrophin had significant influence on the association between betatrophin and insulin resistance. In conclusion, the level of circulating betatrophin is positively associated with insulin resistance in the general population, especially in T2DM and GDM patients. Gender, serum sample, and ELISA kits for full-length betatrophin may affect this association. More large-scale studies are needed to determine whether improving insulin resistance concomitantly declines betatrophin levels in different diseases.
Hopping and Landing Performance in Male Youth Soccer Players: Effects of Age and Maturation
Authors: Read Paul , Oliver Jon , De Ste Croix Mark , Myer Gregory , Lloyd Rhodri
Published: September 2017

Quantifying hopping and landing performances can assist coaches in identifying young male soccer players who may be at increased risk of injury. The influence of chronological age and maturation on these measures in this population is unknown. Single leg hop for distance (SLHD) and 75% horizontal hop and stick landing force (75%Hop) were examined in a cross-sectional sample (N=400) of elite male youth soccer players. Between-group differences for both chronological age (U11–U18) and stage of maturation (pre-, circa- or post-peak height velocity (PHV)) were analyzed. Absolute 75%Hop increased with both age and maturation. Apart from the U18s, pre-PHV and U11–U12 players displayed the greatest relative landing forces compared to all other groups (p<0.001; d=0.56–0.93). Absolute and relative SLHD were greatest in the U18s and post-PHV players (p<0.001; d=0.35–2.04). A trend showed increased SLHD with each consecutive age group although a reduction in performance was identified in the U13s (d=0.50–0.59). High volumes of accumulated soccer participation in the U18s may lead to altered landing strategies indicative of high injury risk. A temporary reduction in hop performance in the U13s may also be linked to a period of adolescent awkwardness.
Training der oberen Extremitäten mit einem Roboterball bei Schlaganfallpatienten
Authors: Neuendorf Tilo , Zschäbitz Daniel , Nitzsche Nico , Schulz Henry
Published: September 2017

Hintergrund Technik-gestützte Bewegungstherapie kann dazu beitragen, die charakteristischen Symptome der oberen Extremitäten infolge eines Schlaganfalls durch die Fähigkeit der neuronalen Reorganisation zu rehabilitieren. Der Roboterball „Sphero 2.0“ wurde als potenziell geeignetes innovatives Exergaming-Instrument festgestellt und zum ersten Mal in der Neurorehabilitation angewendet.

Ziel der Arbeit Das entwickelte Therapiekonzept mit dem Roboterball soll erprobt und mögliche Effekte auf motorische Parameter geprüft werden. Patientenangaben sollen dazu beitragen, den Einsatz in der Rehabilitation zu testen sowie Auswirkungen einer mehrwöchigen Anwendung zu überprüfen. Außerdem wird die technische Eignung des Roboterballs bewertet.

Methoden Zwölf Schlaganfallpatienten (62,3 ± 11,8 Jahre, 170,8 ± 10,9 cm, 82,5 ± 16,6 kg, 6,37 ± 5,53 Monate post-stroke) trainierten an 24 Einheiten in 12 Wochen zweimal pro Woche für 45 min mit dem Roboterball. Bisherige Therapiemaßnahmen wurden ergänzt. Vor und nach der Intervention wurden Greifkraft, unilaterale Geschicklichkeit, Krankheitsempfinden, kognitiver Status sowie Technikaffinität getestet.

Ergebnisse 10 Patienten konnten die Intervention abschließen und erzielten signifikante Verbesserungen der Greifkraft (p = 0,007, d = 0,51) und der unilateralen Geschicklichkeit (p = 0,002, d = 0,44) bei reduziert wahrgenommenen Krankheitsbeschwerden (p = 0,002, d = −1,12). Der Roboterball wurde mit 92,3 ± 2,5 von maximal 100 Punkten als exzellent bewertet.

Diskussion Sehr stark und schwach betroffene Patienten scheinen von den allgemein positiven Ergebnissen weniger zu profitieren als moderat eingeschränkte. Konkrete Verbesserungen im Alltag tragen zur hohen Motivation für das Training mit dem Roboterball bei. Die Therapieinhalte können variabel gestaltet und bei unterschiedlich stark betroffenen Anwendern erfolgreich angewendet werden. Die Ergebnisse sollten im nächsten Schritt mit weiteren Patienten im Crossover-Design überprüft werden.
Behandlung von Hodentumoren im klinischen Stadium I
Authors: Schrader Mark , Zengerling Friedemann
Published: September 2017

Die Therapie von Hodentumoren im klinischen Stadium I hat sich in den letzten Jahren stark verändert. Generell ist in diesem Stadium eine
zunehmende Therapiereduktion zu verzeichnen. Einige Autoren fordern sogar, die adjuvante Therapie im klinischen Stadium I der Tumoren ganz
zu verlassen. Dieses Vorgehen wird bei Keimzelltumoren durch eine Reihe von Studien unterstützt, die eine exzellente Überlebensrate im
Rahmen einer „Surveillance only“-Strategie zeigen. Dieses Vorgehen hat jedoch auch Grenzen und erscheint nicht für alle Patienten
gleichermaßen geeignet.

Der Artikel gibt einen Überblick über aktuelle Behandlungsstrategien und diskutiert die möglichen Indikationen für eine adjuvante Therapie
bei Hodentumoren im klinischen Stadium I.
Parametrized optical functions of strontium barium niobate crystals in the vacuum ultraviolet spectral range
Authors: Dorywalski Krzysztof , Andriyevsky Bohdan , Piasecki Michał , Kityk Iwan
Published: September 2017

Complex optical function ε(E) = ε1(E) + iε2(E) components parallel ε∥(E) and perpendicular ε⊥(E) to the optic axis are determined in the photon energy range E = 2–10 eV for SrxBa1–xNb2O6 single crystals with the composition parameters x = 0.40, 0.50, 0.61, 0.65, and 0.75. The spectra are obtained from the evaluation of the ellipsometric data using a relevant optical model which takes into account the optical anisotropy of the crystal and surface imperfection of the measured specimens. We report the parameters necessary to construct the optical function for each studied composition. Additionally, the energies of electronic inter-band transitions are obtained from the analysis in terms of standard analytical line shapes.
A method for positioning the focal spot location of two photon polymerization
Authors: Zheng Xu , Cheng Kai , Zhou Xiaoqin , Lin Jieqiong , Jing Xian
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we proposed a method to determine the focal spot location of two photon polymerization. Four spiral squares with eleven lines were fabricated in four corners of a 200 μm × 200 μm square area. The cutting location of these lines changed continuously. The first layer of structure to be processed could be accurately positioning in any position of this 200 μm × 200 μm square area by observing and analyzing the processing results of the four spiral squares. With this method, the height of microstructure to be processed could be accuracy controlled. Four meshing gears were successfully fabricated with the average deviation of 2.30% in height.
A visco-hyperelastic model characterizing the electromechanical behavior of nonhomogeneous soft material
Authors: Chang Mengzhou , Wang Zhenqing , Liang Wenyan
Published: September 2017

In this work, a model is proposed extending the basic concept of particle of continuum mechanics combining the distribution of polymer chain. Particularly, the general mechanical behavior of complex system, including complex geometry of interface and material defect, can be described by the local distribution of polymer chain. Furthermore, the local density of the polymer chain derived from the Gaussian statistics has been introduced and related to the electromechanical behavior. When the system is in thermodynamic equilibrium, the free surface charge density is modified according to the external voltage and deformation. The total stress field, which includes the electrical effect, has emerged as a function of deformation and time history. Eventually, the model is fitted to experimental data available in the literature.
Interaction of wave with a body floating on a wide polynya
Authors: Li Z. F. , Shi Y. Y. , Wu G. X.
Published: September 2017

A method based on wide spacing approximation is proposed for the interaction of water wave with a body floating on a polynya. The ice sheet is modelled as an elastic plate and fluid flow is described by the velocity potential theory. The solution procedure is constructed based on the assumption that when the distance between two disturbances to the free surface is sufficiently large, the interactions between them involve only the travelling waves caused by the disturbances and the effect of the evanescent waves is ignored. The solution for the problem can then be obtained from those for a floating body without an ice sheet and for an ice sheet/free surface without a floating body. Both latter solutions have already been found previously and therefore there will be no additional effort in solution once the wide spacing approximation formulation is derived. Extensive numerical results are provided to show that the method is very accurate compared with the exact solution. The obtained formulations are then used to provide some insightful explanations for the physics of flow behaviour, as well as the mechanism for the highly oscillatory features of the hydrodynamic force and body motion. Some explicit equations are derived to show zero reflection by the polynya and peaks and troughs of the force and excited body motion. It is revealed that some of the peaks of the body motion are due to resonance while others are due to the wave characters in the polynya.
Annealed Ag contacts to MoS2 field-effect transistors
Authors: Abraham Michael , Mohney Suzanne E.
Published: September 2017

Silver contacts to few-layer (5 to 14 layers thick) MoS2 have been studied before and after annealing. Annealing was found to be critical for reducing the contact resistance but did not degrade the operation of field-effect transistors that are part of the test structure. The contact resistance for the as-deposited samples was in the range of 0.8–3.5 kΩ μm. On the other hand, the contact resistance was reduced to 0.2–0.7 kΩ μm, evaluated at a constant sheet resistance of 32 kΩ/□, after annealing at 250 or 300 °C. The reduced contact resistance is attributed to diffusion of Ag into the MoS2 and doping, as supported by further electrical characterization of the contacts and devices.
Generation of high-field narrowband terahertz radiation by counterpropagating plasma wakefields
Authors: Timofeev I. V. , Annenkov V. V. , Volchok E. P.
Published: September 2017

It is found that nonlinear interaction of plasma wakefields driven by counterpropagating laser or particle beams can efficiently generate high-power electromagnetic radiation at the second harmonic of the plasma frequency. Using a simple analytical theory and particle-in-cell simulations, we show that this phenomenon can be attractive for producing high-field (∼10 MV/cm) tunable terahertz radiation with a narrow line width. For laser drivers produced by existing petawatt-class systems, this nonlinear process opens the way to the generation of gigawatt, multi-millijoule terahertz pulses which are not presently available for any other generating schemes.
Ponderomotive perturbations of low density low-temperature plasma under laser Thomson scattering diagnostics
Authors: Shneider Mikhail N.
Published: September 2017

The ponderomotive perturbation in the interaction region of laser radiation with a low density and low-temperature plasma is considered. Estimates of the perturbation magnitude are determined from the plasma parameters, geometry, intensity, and wavelength of laser radiation. It is shown that ponderomotive perturbations can lead to large errors in the electron density when measured using Thomson scattering.
Stochastic approach to irreversible thermodynamics
Authors: Nicolis Grégoire , De Decker Yannick
Published: September 2017

An extension of classical irreversible thermodynamics pioneered by Ilya Prigogine is developed, in which fluctuations of macroscopic observables accounting for microscopic-scale processes are incorporated. The contribution of the fluctuations to the entropy production is derived from a generalized entropy balance equation and expressed in terms of the fluctuating variables, via an extended local equilibrium Ansatz and in terms of the probability distributions of these variables. The approach is illustrated on reactive systems involving linear and nonlinear steps, and the role of the distance from equilibrium and of the nonlinearities is assessed.