bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rurality and dietary patterns: associations in a UK cohort study of 10-year-old children
Authors: Morris Tim T , Northstone Kate
Published: September 2014

Objective

Despite differences in obesity and ill health between urban and rural areas in the UK being well documented, very little is known about differences in dietary patterns across these areas. The present study aimed to examine whether urban/rural status is associated with dietary patterns in a population-based UK cohort study of children.

Design

Dietary patterns were obtained using principal components analysis and cluster analysis of 3 d diet records collected from children at 10 years of age. Rurality was obtained from the 2001 UK Census urban/rural indicator at the time of dietary assessment. General linear models were used to examine the relationship between rurality and dietary pattern scores from principal components analysis; multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the association between rurality and dietary clusters.

Setting

The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), South West England.

Subjects

Children (n5677) aged 10 years (2817 boys and 2860 girls).

Results

After adjustment, increases in rurality were associated with increased scores on the ‘health awareness’ dietary pattern (β=0·35; 95 % CI 0·14, 0·56;P<0·001 for the most rural compared with the most urban group) and lower scores on the ‘packed lunch/snack’ dietary pattern (β=−0·39; 95 % CI −0·59, −0·19;P<0·001 for the most rural compared with the most urban group). The odds ratio for participants being in the ‘healthy’ compared with the ‘processed’ dietary cluster for the most rural areas was 1·61 (95 % CI 1·05, 2·49;P=0·02) compared with those in the most urban areas.

Conclusions

There is evidence to suggest that differences exist in dietary patterns between rural and urban areas. Similar results were found using two different methods of dietary pattern analysis, showing that children residing in rural households were more likely to consume healthier diets than those in urban households.
A palliative care hotline for multiple sclerosis: A pilot feasibility study
Authors: Knies Andrea K , Golla Heidrun , Strupp Julia , Galushko Maren , Schipper Sabine , Voltz Raymond
Published: September 2014

Objective:

Research findings suggest that patients severely affected by multiple sclerosis benefit from palliative care. Our objectives were to (1) implement a pilot palliative care counseling hotline for severely affected multiple sclerosis patients and their caregivers in order to connect them to palliative care, and (2) evaluate its preliminary feasibility through a pilot study.

Method:

The hotline was designed in cooperation with the local state association of the German Multiple Sclerosis Society and based on a review of the literature. The initial study setting for the hotline was the broader region of the cities Cologne and Bonn in Germany. The hotline was introduced through a magazine published by the German Multiple Sclerosis Society and leaflets sent to local healthcare providers. Calls were conducted using a semistructured interview guide and documented by a standardized case report form. Measures to assess feasibility were both quantitative (e.g., number of calls) and qualitative (e.g., criteria for eligibility for palliative care).

Results:

During its pilot year, the hotline received 18 calls. Some 15 callers were included in the analysis, and 10 of these 15 were deemed eligible for palliative care due to such criteria as medical characteristics, care or nursing conditions, caregiver strain, and concerns regarding death and dying. Access to palliative care services could be provided for all 10 callers.

Significance of results:

Based on our pilot feasibility study, the hotline seems to be a valuable service for patients severely affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) and their caregivers in order to gain information about and access to palliative care. It will be extended on a nationwide scale through a grant of the German Multiple Sclerosis Society. Awareness of the hotline needs to be enhanced in order to attract and support a significant number of new callers.
Current dilemmas in the assessment of suffering in palliative care
Authors: Krikorian Alicia , Román Juan Pablo
Published: September 2014

Objective:

Although relief from suffering is essential in healthcare and palliative care, few efforts have aimed at defining, operationalizing, and developing standards for its detection, assessment, and relief. In order to accurately explore and identify factors that contribute to suffering, more attention needs to be focused on quality assessment and measurement, not only for assessment purposes but also to test the effectiveness of interventions in relieving suffering. The scope of the present paper is to discuss the strategies that aid in the detection and assessment of the suffering experience in patients with chronic illnesses and/or in palliative care settings, and the dilemmas commonly encountered regarding the quality of available assessment measures.

Method:

A general description of instruments available for suffering assessment is provided. Matters regarding the accuracy of the measures are discussed. Finally, some dilemmas regarding the quality of the measures to screen for and assess suffering are presented.

Results:

There have been some achievements toward adequate suffering assessment. However, a more robust theoretical background is needed, and empirical evidence aimed at supporting it is required. In addition, further examination of the psychometric characteristics of instruments in different populations and cultural contexts is needed.

Significance of results:

An interesting number of assessment measures are now available for use in the palliative care setting, employing innovative approaches. However, further examination and validation in different contexts is required to find high-quality tools for detection of suffering and assessment of the results of intervention.
Causality and regularity in a ‘creative world’
Authors: WITT ULRICH
Published: September 2014

With its ability to incessantly create new actions and innovations the economy presents itself as an open, evolving (self-transforming) system. In their ‘economics for a creative world’ Koppl et al. (2014) try to account for the features of that system and discuss methodological consequences for its analysis. Claiming that ‘ . . . novelty and innovation are uncaused’ and that ‘ . . . no laws entail the evolution of the econosphere’ they hold that fundamental scientific principles do not apply. In the present comment it will be argued that both claims are difficult to defend. Causality and law-like hypotheses also apply to novelty and innovation.
An analytical simplified model to characterize focused aperture antennas
Authors: García-Pino Antonio
Published: September 2014

This paper presents an analytical model to characterize the radiation pattern of focused aperture antennas. The model is based on the classic parabolic on pedestal distribution for amplitude, but in this work the focusing phase term is considered and applied in the Fresnel region. The model is useful for millimeter and submillimeter wave imaging radar systems that usually work in the Fresnel region of the antenna. Analytical closed expressions are developed to predict the available resolution (transversal beamwidth) and operating range (axial beamwidth) of such systems. The effects of the first- and second-order phase distributions on the aperture have also been also studied in order to show the scanning effect, the axial refocusing, and the astigmatic beam degradation.
Cdk5-mediated phosphorylation of RapGEF2 controls neuronal migration in the developing cerebral cortex
Authors: Ye Tao , Ip Jacque P. K. , Fu Amy K. Y. , Ip Nancy Y.
Published: September 2014

During cerebral cortex development, pyramidal neurons migrate through the intermediate zone and integrate into the cortical plate. These neurons undergo the multipolar–bipolar transition to initiate radial migration. While perturbation of this polarity acquisition leads to cortical malformations, how this process is initiated and regulated is largely unknown. Here we report that the specific upregulation of the Rap1 guanine nucleotide exchange factor, RapGEF2, in migrating neurons corresponds to the timing of this polarity transition. In utero electroporation and live-imaging studies reveal that RapGEF2 acts on the multipolar–bipolar transition during neuronal migration via a Rap1/N-cadherin pathway. Importantly, activation of RapGEF2 is controlled via phosphorylation by a serine/threonine kinase Cdk5, whose activity is largely restricted to the radial migration zone. Thus, the specific expression and Cdk5-dependent phosphorylation of RapGEF2 during multipolar–bipolar transition within the intermediate zone are essential for proper neuronal migration and wiring of the cerebral cortex.
Polymer–graphite composite: a versatile use and throw plastic chip electrode
Authors: Perween Mosarrat , Parmar Dilip B. , Bhadu Gopala Ram , Srivastava Divesh N.
Published: September 2014

We report an efficient plastic chip electrode (PCE) fabricated from a composite of graphite and poly(methyl methacrylate) by a simple solution casting method and promoted as an economically inexpensive, multipurpose disposable electrode for various applications.
Electrochemical immunosensors, genosensors and phagosensors for Salmonella detection
Authors: Liébana Susana , Brandão Delfina , Alegret Salvador , Pividori María Isabel
Published: September 2014

This review discusses the current state of the artSalmonelladetection methods. In this perspective, emphasis is given to the recent developments in biosensors, in particular electrochemical immunosensors, genosensors and phagosensors.
Microscale patterning of hydrogel stiffness through light-triggered uncaging of thiols
Authors: Mosiewicz Katarzyna A. , Kolb Laura , van der Vlies André J. , Lutolf Matthias P.
Published: September 2014

A chemical scheme to control the stiffness of a synthetic hydrogel in space, time and intensity was developed to recapitulate the dynamic properties of natural extracellular matrices.
Self-assembly of lipidated pseudopeptidic triazolophanes to vesicles
Authors: Haridas V. , Bijesh M. B. , Chandra Ajeet , Sharma Sakshi , Shandilya Ashutosh
Published: September 2014

We have transformed the amino acid serine to 32-membered lipidated cyclophanes employing CuAAc reaction. These serine-based lipidated triazolophanes assemble to sturdy and robust vesicles.
Metal ion promoted tautomerization and C–N bond cleavage: conversion of catechol to a p-benzoquinone derivative
Authors: Saha Pinaki , Saha Roy Amit , Weyhermüller Thomas , Ghosh Prasanta
Published: September 2014

Metal ion promoted conversion of catechol to a p-quinone derivative is reported.
Base-cleavable microarrays for the characterization of DNA and RNA oligonucleotides synthesized in situ by photolithography
Authors: Lietard Jory , Kretschy Nicole , Sack Matej , Wahba Alexander S. , Somoza Mark M. , Damha Masad J.
Published: September 2014

DNA and RNA oligonucleotides synthesized in situ on microarrays were cleaved, collected and characterized by LC-MS.
Pyridynes and indolynes as building blocks for functionalized heterocycles and natural products
Authors: Goetz Adam E. , Shah Tejas K. , Garg Neil K.
Published: September 2014

This feature article showcases the use of pyridynes and indolynes to construct functionalized heterocycles and complex natural products.
Native point defects in CuIn1−xGaxSe2: hybrid density functional calculations predict the origin of p- and n-type conductivity
Authors: Bekaert J. , Saniz R. , Partoens B. , Lamoen D.
Published: September 2014

Starting from first-principles calculations, many experimental observations such as photoluminescence spectra, charge carrier densities and freeze-out can be explained.
Cu(ii)–alkyl amine complex mediated hydrothermal synthesis of Cu nanowires: exploring the dual role of alkyl amines
Authors: Ravi Kumar D. V. , Kim Inhyuk , Zhong Zhaoyang , Kim Kyujin , Lee Daehee , Moon Jooho
Published: September 2014

The complex formation of Cu2+ ions with alkyl amines is a prerequisite for Cu nanowire synthesis. Slow reduction of this complex allows for the generation of twinned seeds, which are later grown into nanowires.
Oxygen nonstoichiometry, defect structure and oxygen diffusion in the double perovskite GdBaCo2O6−δ
Authors: Tsvetkov D. S. , Ananjev M. V. , Eremin V. A. , Zuev A. Yu. , Kurumchin E. Kh.
Published: September 2014

The values of the oxygen self-diffusion coefficient measured by the dc-polarization technique completely coincide with those of the oxygen tracer diffusion coefficient.
Fusion of photodynamic therapy and photoactivated chemotherapy: a novel Ru(ii) arene complex with dual activities of photobinding and photocleavage toward DNA
Authors: Chen Yongjie , Lei Wanhua , Jiang Guoyu , Hou Yuanjun , Li Chao , Zhang Baowen , Zhou Qianxiong , Wang Xuesong
Published: September 2014

A Ru(ii) arene complex displays DNA binding, DNA cleavage, and fluorescence imaging upon visible light illumination.
Formation of bis(2-pyridylcarbonyl)aminate by oxidation of ethylbis(2-pyridylmethyl)amine on the trichloridoruthenium(iii) complex
Authors: Nagao Hirotaka , Shimura Naoto , Yonezawa Haruka
Published: September 2014

Oxidation of the facial-type trichloridoruthenium(iii) complex bearing ethylbis(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (ebpma), fac-[RuIIICl3(ebpma)], with (NH4)2[CeIV(NO3)6] in acetonitrile afforded a ruthenium(iii) complex having bis(2-pyridylcarbonyl)aminato (bpca), [RuIIICl2(NCCH3)(bpca)]. The bpca moiety showed interactions with cations such as protons.
Half sandwich ruthenium(ii) hydrides: hydrogenation of terminal, internal, cyclic and functionalized olefins
Authors: Bagh Bidraha , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: September 2014

Ruthenium(ii) complexes 2b–e with the general formula RuCl2(p-cymene)(NHC) were reacted with Et3SiH to generate a series of ruthenium(ii) hydrides 5b–e. These compounds 5b–e are effective catalysts for the hydrogenation of terminal, internal and cyclic and functionalized olefins.
Deterministic modelling of carbon nanotube near-infrared solar cells
Authors: Bellisario Darin O. , Jain Rishabh M. , Ulissi Zackary , Strano Michael S.
Published: September 2014

We investigate the optimal design of carbon nanotube near-IR solar cells, revealing a narrow density, thickness, and nanotube orientation space of maximum efficiency.
Solar powered biohydrogen production requires specific localization of the hydrogenase
Authors: Burroughs Nigel J. , Boehm Marko , Eckert Carrie , Mastroianni Giulia , Spence Edward M. , Yu Jianfeng , Nixon Peter J. , Appel Jens , Mullineaux Conrad W. , Bryan Samantha J.
Published: September 2014

Subcellular localization of the cyanobacterial hydrogenase is under physiological control and is crucial for photosynthetic hydrogen production.
On-line separation and preconcentration of hexavalent chromium on a novel mesoporous silica adsorbent with determination by solution-cathode glow discharge-atomic emission spectrometry
Authors: Ma Jiaxian , Wang Zheng , Li Qing , Gai Rongyin , Li Xiaohong
Published: September 2014

A simple, low cost, and accurate speciation analysis method based on on-line SPE and SCGD-AES was developed for the determination of hexavalent chromium in aqueous samples.
Patterned adhesive enables construction of nonplanar three-dimensional paper microfluidic circuits
Authors: Kalish Brent , Tsutsui Hideaki
Published: September 2014

This paper details a method of fabricating nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic circuits utilizing patterned aerosol adhesives.
1000-fold sample focusing on paper-based microfluidic devices
Authors: Rosenfeld Tally , Bercovici Moran
Published: September 2014

We present a novel paper-based analytical device for isotachophoretic sample focusing, enabling processing of a 30 μL sample and a 1000-fold increase in peak concentration in several minutes.
Light beams with selective angular momentum generated by hybrid plasmonic waveguides
Authors: Liang Yao , Wu Han Wen , Huang Bin Jie , Huang Xu Guang
Published: September 2014

We report an integrated compact technique that can “spin” and “twist” light on a silicon photonics platform, with the generated light beams possessing both spin angular momentum (SAM) and orbital angular momentum (OAM).
Scalarane sesterterpenes from Thorectidae sponges as inhibitors of TDP-43 nuclear factor
Authors: Festa Carmen , Cassiano Chiara , D'Auria Maria Valeria , Debitus Cécile , Monti Maria Chiara , De Marino Simona
Published: September 2014

The chemical analysis of two Thorectidae sponges led to the isolation of five new scalarane derivatives along with fifteen known compounds. Their binding capability to TDP-43 was assessed by bio-physical techniques and resulted in the identifications of potent inhibitors.
An intermolecular C–H functionalization method for the synthesis of 3-hydroxy-2-oxindoles
Authors: Chen Jinsen , Song Chao , Chen Pei , Zhu Jin
Published: September 2014

An intermolecular C–H functionalization with a denitrosation-triggered cyclization method is developed for the synthesis of 3-hydroxy-2-oxindoles.
Palladium and copper-catalyzed ligand-free coupling of phenylhydrazines in water
Authors: Chauhan Parul , Ravi Makthala , Singh Shikha , Raju Kanumuri S. R. , Bajpai Vikas , Kumar Brijesh , Wahajuddin Wahajuddin , Yadav Prem. P.
Published: September 2014

An efficient methodology for the synthesis of biaryls via Pd/Cu catalyzed coupling of unprotected phenylhydrazines in water is reported.
Combination of hematin and PEDOT via 1-pyrenebutanoic acid: a new platform for direct electrochemistry of hematin and biosensing applications
Authors: Yu X. H. , Kong J. M. , Han X. J. , Zhang X. J.
Published: September 2014

In this work, we prepare a novel platform based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and 1-pyrenebutanoic acid (PBA). PEDOT is a conductive material of heteroatom doping, which can connect with PBA through π–π stacking.
Nanosheet-based 3D hierarchical ZnO structure decorated with Au nanoparticles for enhanced electrochemical detection of dopamine
Authors: Fang Linxia , Huang Kejing , Zhang Baoling , Liu Bing , Liu Yujie , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: September 2014

A novel sensor based on well-dispersed Au nanoparticles on a nanosheet-based three-dimensionally hierarchical ZnO matrix was fabricated to sensitively detect DA.
Controllable synthesis of Cu2O hierarchical nanoclusters with high photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Lun , Ying Pengzhan , Yu Bing , Wu Ling , Wang Jieru , Gu Xiuquan , Chen Shanliang , Zhou Rui , Ni Zhonghai
Published: September 2014

Cu2O hierarchical nanoclusters which are made up of many 2–7 nm grains were synthesized and have high photocatalytic activity.
Thermo-mechanical and surface properties of POSS reinforced structurally different diamine cured epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Sethuraman K. , Prabunathan P. , Alagar M.
Published: September 2014

In the present study three structurally different diamines namely bisphenol-A based ether diamine, octane diol based ether diamine, and capron based diamine were synthesized and characterized using FT-IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectra.
Real-time monitoring of the drying of extruded granules in a fluid-bed dryer using audible acoustic emission chemometrics
Authors: Aoki Hisayoshi , Hattori Yusuke , Otsuka Makoto
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was an attempt to adapt the audible acoustic emission (AAE) sound measurement method for the on-line monitoring of the fluid-bed drying process of pharmaceutical granules.
Ruthenium oxide-based nanocomposites with high specific surface area and improved capacitance as a supercapacitor
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Liu Hui , Tan Qiangqiang , Yang Jun
Published: September 2014

A solvothermal approach and a mutual oxidation–reduction strategy were demonstrated for the synthesis of RuO2-based nanocomposites for supercapacitors.
Antifouling behaviours of PVDF/nano-TiO2 composite membranes revealed by surface energetics and quartz crystal microbalance monitoring
Authors: Wang Qiaoying , Wang Zhiwei , Zhang Jie , Wang Jie , Wu Zhichao
Published: September 2014

Introducing nano-TiO2 improved the interaction energy between the membrane surface and foulant; however, aggregation of nano-TiO2 facilitated foulant adsorption on pore walls.
[60]Fullerenyl amino acids and peptides: a review of their synthesis and applications
Authors: Jennepalli Sreenu , Pyne Stephen G. , Keller Paul A.
Published: September 2014

This review reports on the latest progress in the synthesis of fullerenyl amino acids and related derivatives, and categorises the molecules into functional types for different uses: these include directly attached fullerenyl amino acids, fullerenyl N- and C-capping amino acids, and those amino acids in which the [60]fullerene group is attached to the amino acid side chain.
High efficiency photocatalytic conversion of CO2 with H2O over Pt/TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Yan , Lai Qinghua , Zhang Fan , Shen Xiaodong , Fan Maohong , He Yiming , Ren Shenqiang
Published: September 2014

Pt/TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by a solvothermal method and used for high efficiency photocatalytic CO2 conversion.
Fabrication conditions for efficient organic photovoltaic cells from aqueous dispersions of nanoparticles
Authors: Bag Monojit , Gehan Timothy S. , Renna Lawrence A. , Algaier Dana D. , Lahti Paul M. , Venkataraman D.
Published: September 2014

We report the processing conditions for fabricating efficient organic solar cells from aqueous dispersions of conjugated polymer nanoparticles.
Designing BODIPY-based probes for fluorescence imaging of β-amyloid plaques
Authors: Sozmen Fazli , Kolemen Safacan , Kumada Henri-Obadja , Ono Masahiro , Saji Hideo , Akkaya Engin U.
Published: September 2014

Styryl-congutated BODIPY dyes which are structurally similar to known Aβ peptide binding dyes, were designed and synthesized.
Fabrication of a visible light detector based on a coaxial polypyrrole/TiO2 nanorod heterojunction
Authors: Zheng Wenji , Li Xiangcun , Dong Chunxu , Yan Xiaoming , He Gaohong
Published: September 2014

The visible light detector based on coaxial polypyrrole/TiO2 nanorods composite exhibits high responsivity up to 0.45 A W−1, impressive stability and excellent linear dependence of photoresponse on visible light intensity.
Characterization and corrosion behavior of Co and Co–P coatings electrodeposited from chloride bath
Authors: Ezhilselvi V. , Seenivasan H. , Bera Parthasarathi , Anandan Chinnasamy
Published: September 2014

Co–P coatings with low and high phosphorous contents are electrodeposited using direct current (DC) and pulse current (PC) methods from cobalt chloride baths.
Au–Pd alloy catalyst with high performance for hydrogen generation from formic acid-formate solution at nearly 0 °C
Authors: Wu Shuang , Yang Fan , Sun Pingchuan , Chen Tiehong
Published: September 2014

By reduction of mixed noble metal precursors in aqueous phase under ice-water bath conditions, well dispersed Au–Pd alloy nanoparticles supported on carbon black were facilely prepared and exhibited high activity for hydrogen generation from formic acid-formate solution even at nearly 0 °C.
Heterogeneous catalysis of transesterification of jatropha curcas oil over calcium–cerium bimetallic oxide catalyst
Authors: Teo Siow Hwa , Rashid Umer , Taufiq-Yap Yun Hin
Published: September 2014

A series of heterogeneous basic catalysts (mixed oxides of Ca and Ce) with different molar ratios were synthesized via a conventional co-precipitation process using a highly alkaline carbonate salt.
Molecular recognition of nucleic acids by nucleolipid/dendrimer surface complexes
Authors: Arteta Marianna Yanez , Berti Debora , Montis Costanza , Campbell Richard A. , Clifton Luke A. , Skoda Maximilian W. A. , Soltwedel Olaf , Baglioni Piero , Nylander Tommy
Published: September 2014

Functionalization of dendrimer layers with nucleolipids allows selective molecular recognition of nucleic acids.
Roughness-controlled copper nanowires and Cu nanowires–Ag heterostructures: synthesis and their enhanced catalysis
Authors: Sun Yang , Zhang Fengying , Xu Li , Yin Zhilei , Song Xinyu
Published: September 2014

Cu nanowires–Ag heterostructures are prepared using the as-prepared rough Cu wires as “substrate”, which exhibit an excellent catalytic activity.
Highly sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for Ag+ based on a Eu3+ post-functionalized metal–organic framework in aqueous media
Authors: Hao Ji-Na , Yan Bing
Published: September 2014

A new class of lanthanide luminescent MOFs was generated by postsynthetic modification encapsulating Eu3+ into the pores of MIL-121 (Eu3+@MIL-121). More significantly, the robust Eu3+@MIL-121 shows fast response and high sensitivity to Ag+ ions in aqueous solution, due to a great enhancement in the Eu-luminescence.
Folic acid-modified laponite nanodisks for targeted anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Wu Yilun , Guo Rui , Wen Shihui , Shen Mingwu , Zhu Meifang , Wang Jianhua , Shi Xiangyang
Published: September 2014

Folic acid-modified laponite nanodisks can be used as an efficient platform for targeted delivery of doxorubicinviaa receptor-mediated pathway.
Self-assembly of LaF3:Yb,Er/Tm nanoplates into colloidal spheres and tailoring their upconversion emissions with fluorescent dyes
Authors: Bao Longyi , You Huiling , Wang Limin , Li Lei , Qiao Ru , Zhang Yong , Zhong Yijun , Xiong Yujie , Li Zhengquan
Published: September 2014

Mesoporous colloidal spheres consisting of LaF3:Yb,Er/Tm nanoplates are developed, showing tunable upconversion emissions under NIR excitation through dye loading.
Doc2b serves as a scaffolding platform for concurrent binding of multiple Munc18 isoforms in pancreatic islet β-cells
Authors: Ramalingam Latha , Lu Jingping , Hudmon Andy , Thurmond Debbie C.
Published: September 2014

Biphasic glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) from pancreatic β-cells involves soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein-attachment protein receptor (SNARE) protein-regulated exocytosis. SNARE complex assembly further requires the regulatory proteins Munc18c, Munc18-1 and Doc2b. Munc18-1 and Munc18c are required for first- and second-phase GSIS respectively. These distinct Munc18-1 and Munc18c roles are related to their transient high-affinity binding with their cognate target (t-)SNAREs, Syntaxin 1A and Syntaxin 4 respectively. Doc2b is essential for both phases of GSIS, yet the molecular basis for this remains unresolved. Because Doc2b binds to Munc18-1 and Munc18c via its distinct C2A and C2B domains respectively, we hypothesized that Doc2b may provide a plasma membrane-localized scaffold/platform for transient docking of these Munc18 isoforms during GSIS. Towards this, macromolecular complexes composed of Munc18c, Doc2b and Munc18-1 were detected in β-cells. In vitro interaction assays indicated that Doc2b is required to bridge the interaction between Munc18c and Munc18-1 in the macromolecular complex; Munc18c and Munc18-1 failed to associate in the absence of Doc2b. Competition-based GST–Doc2b interaction assays revealed that Doc2b could simultaneously bind both Munc18-1 and Munc18c. Hence these data support a working model wherein Doc2b functions as a docking platform/scaffold for transient interactions with the multiple Munc18 isoforms operative in insulin release, promoting SNARE assembly.
New functional and structural insights from updated mutational databases for complement factor H, Factor I, membrane cofactor protein and C3
Authors: Rodriguez Elizabeth , Rallapalli Pavithra M. , Osborne Amy J. , Perkins Stephen J.
Published: September 2014

aHUS (atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome), AMD (age-related macular degeneration) and other diseases are associated with defective AP (alternative pathway) regulation. CFH (complement factor H), CFI (complement factor I), MCP (membrane cofactor protein) and C3 exhibited the most disease-associated genetic alterations in the AP. Our interactive structural database for these was updated with a total of 324 genetic alterations. A consensus structure for the SCR (short complement regulator) domain showed that the majority (37%) of SCR mutations occurred at its hypervariable loop and its four conserved Cys residues. Mapping 113 missense mutations onto the CFH structure showed that over half occurred in the C-terminal domains SCR-15 to -20. In particular, SCR-20 with the highest total of affected residues is associated with binding to C3d and heparin-like oligosaccharides. No clustering of 49 missense mutations in CFI was seen. In MCP, SCR-3 was the most affected by 23 missense mutations. In C3, the neighbouring thioester and MG (macroglobulin) domains exhibited most of 47 missense mutations. The mutations in the regulators CFH, CFI and MCP involve loss-of-function, whereas those for C3 involve gain-of-function. This combined update emphasizes the importance of the complement AP in inflammatory disease, clarifies the functionally important regions in these proteins, and will facilitate diagnosis and therapy.
Comparison of Verilog‐A compact modelling strategies for spintronic devices
Authors: Jabeur K. , Bernard‐Granger F. , Di Pendina G. , Prenat G. , Dieny B.
Published: September 2014

Magnetic random access memory based on magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) is among the most attractive technologies of emerging non‐volatile memories. However, the integration of spin‐based devices in integrated circuits is still hindered by a lack of established standard electrical simulator models. Many of such models have been proposed during the past decade which can be classified into two categories: the first ones are based on the physical Landau‐Lifshitz‐Gilbert (LLG) equation describing real‐time MTJ magnetic switching dynamics; the second one uses analytical expressions for switching thresholds derived from the LLG equation. The aim of this reported work was to investigate for the first time the capability of each strategy to fulfil the need of industrial standard electrical simulation tools and pave the path towards a standard industrial model. Multi‐simulator compatibility, efficient runtime, accuracy and reliability are the three main assets of a device model. It is shown that using the Cadence® tools suite with the Spectre® simulator, the LLG modelling strategy overcomes the analytical approach in terms of accuracy and speed with a 7× faster runtime. Both models require nearly the same hardware memory resources.
Miniaturised branch‐line coupler with ultra‐wide high suppression stopband
Authors: Zong B.F. , Wang G.M. , Zhang C.X. , Wang Y.W.
Published: September 2014

A compact branch‐line coupler with an ultra‐wide upper stopband is proposed based on a new type of transmission line. Consistent numerical and measurement results of the coupler are shown. The proposed branch‐line coupler operating at 0.875 GHz exhibits a stopband from 2.8 to 12.9 GHz with suppression levels better than −20 dB. The occupied size of the proposed branch‐line coupler is only 17.6% that of a conventional one operating at the same frequency.
Athermal silicon optical interposers with quantum dot lasers operating from 25 to 125°C
Authors: Urino Y. , Hatori N. , Akagawa T. , Shimizu T. , Okano M. , Ishizaka M. , Yamamoto T. , Okayama H. , Onawa Y. , Takahashi H. , Shimura D. , Yaegashi H. , Nishi H. , Fukuda H. , Yamada K. , Miura M. , Fujikata J. , Akiyama S. , Baba T. , Usuki T. , Noguchi Y. , Noguchi M. , Imai M. , Hirayama N. , Saitou S. , Yamagishi M. , Takahashi M. , Saito E. , Okamoto D. , Mori M. , Horikawa T. , Nakamura T. , Arakawa Y.
Published: September 2014

Interposers for inter‐chip interconnects should perform stably under high‐temperature conditions and rapid temperature change due to the heat generated by mounted large‐scale integration (LSI) chips. Athermal silicon optical interposers integrated with quantum dot lasers and other temperature‐insensitive components on a single silicon substrate are demonstrated, and error‐free data links at 12.5 Gbit/s operating from 25 to 125°C are achieved without any bias adjustment. Since maximum junction temperatures in most LSIs have been below 125°C now and will be in the future, the interposers are tolerant of heat generated by LSIs, and are suitable for inter‐chip interconnects.
Maximum penetration level of distributed generation in consideration of voltage fluctuations based on multi‐resolution model
Authors: Sheng Wanxing , Zhao Shanshan , Song Xiaohui , Meng Xiaoli
Published: September 2014

To maintain the safe and stable operation of power system with the interconnection of distributed generation (DG), the urgent need arises to determine the maximum penetration level of DG. Voltage fluctuation, which is especially affected by the stochastic nature of renewable generation and load, has a significant impact on DG penetration. Thus in this study a two‐dimensional multi‐resolution model, which can demonstrate the impact of renewable generation and load on voltage fluctuation, is proposed. Then an analytical methodology based on the proposed model is presented to determine the maximum penetration level, without violating the limits of voltage fluctuation. Finally, all of them are applied to the IEEE 34 node test feeder, and simulation results show that the maximum penetration level will be lower if the stochastic variations of DG and load are more severe. Therefore the proposed method is a useful solution to the determination of DG penetration, and the multi‐resolution model can greatly simplify the process of calculating and analysing.
Area voltage control analysis in transmission systems based on clustering technique
Authors: Dodo Amadou Moustapha , Mehrjerdi Hasan , Lefebvre Serge , Saad Maarouf , Asber Dalal
Published: September 2014

This study proposes a secondary voltage control based on a systematic approach that decomposes a transmission system network into several areas. Network decomposition and pilot buses selection are fundamental in area voltage control. The proposed decomposition approach is hierarchical with two levels of decomposition. The first level is based on the clustering analysis; at this level, the appropriate number of areas is determined. Only several buses (named as control buses) are assigned to each area at this level. The aim of the second level is to assign the remaining buses (named as load buses) to a given area among the already obtained areas in the first level. Buses classification at this level is based on proximity analysis. The control uses reactive power compensation at critical buses, as well as at pilot buses to eliminate voltage violation resulting from disturbances at these buses. For pilot buses selection, a pilot index is proposed. The critical buses are determined based on the sensitivity factors. The IEEE 39‐bus and IEEE 118‐bus are used to illustrate the performance of the proposed approach.
Privacy – aware average speed monitoring system for vehicular ad‐hoc networks
Authors: Alcaide Almudena , Palomar Esther , Fuentes José M. , González‐Manzano Lorena
Published: September 2014

In this study, the authors introduce a highly dynamic and manageable average speed monitoring system. They define a privacy preserving security protocol in which vehicles hold a pseudonymous non‐traceable private digital identity. Vehicle's identity is kept undisclosed for as long as the average speed over a designated road section does not exceed the specified limit. During the protocol execution, non‐refutable evidences are built for vehicles and authorities, for future disputes. Finally, the security properties of the protocol are formally proven using BAN logic and, a metric is defined to measure the reliability and feasibility of the author's proposal.
Novel ultra‐wideband multi‐user receiver for transportation systems communication
Authors: Okassa M'foubat Anicet , Elbahhar Fouzia , Tatkeu Charles
Published: September 2014

Ultra‐wideband (UWB) technology can offer very efficient solutions for various vehicular communication applications. The authors propose to use this technique to establish vehicle‐to‐vehicle and vehicle‐to‐infrastructure communications. In fact, compared to traditional carrier‐based technology, UWB is a carrierless system that implements new paradigms in terms of signal generation and reception. Thus, designing a UWB communication system requires the understanding of a mechanism which allows us to have wide bandwidth and very low transmitted powers used jointly to provide a reliable radio link. UWB offers potential transceiver systems with very simple implementations. Two approaches have emerged, which meet all the communication requirements: impulse and multi‐band systems. The present work relies on the first approach. So, the authors propose to use orthogonal functions called modified Gegenbauer functions (MGF) in the UWB system. Different scenarios are studied and compared in the scope of a system offering communication for subway trains. The authors propose a new receiver for the MGF‐UWB communication system. To evaluate the performances of the proposed communication system, the bit error rate values are calculated and analysed in the presence of multi‐user interference, considering synchronous and asynchronous cases. This study shows that this new receiver offers the required performance, for our UWB communication in transport systems, better than the performance obtained using a conventional receiver.
Generic inertia emulation controller for multi‐terminal voltage‐source‐converter high voltage direct current systems
Authors: Zhu Jiebei , Guerrero Josep M. , Hung William , Booth Campbell D. , Adam Grain P.
Published: September 2014

A generic inertia emulation controller (INEC) scheme for multi‐terminal voltage‐source‐converter (VSC)‐based high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems is proposed in this study. The INEC can be incorporated in any grid‐side VSC station, allowing the multi‐terminal HVDC (MTDC) terminal to contribute an inertial response to connected AC systems during system disturbances, in a fashion similar to synchronous generators. The DC‐link capacitors within the MTDC are utilised by the INEC scheme to exchange stored energy with the AC system by varying the overall DC voltage level of the MTDC network within a safe and pre‐defined range. A theoretical treatment of the INEC algorithm and its implementation and integration within a conventional VSC control system are presented, and the impact on the total DC capacitance required within the MTDC network to ensure that DC voltages vary within an acceptable range is discussed. The proposed INEC scheme is validated using a MATLAB/SIMULINK model under various changes in demand and AC network faults. The model incorporates a multi‐machine AC power system connected to a MTDC transmission system with multiple converter‐interfaced nodes. The effectiveness of the INEC in damping post‐fault oscillations and in enhancing AC grid frequency stability is also investigated.
Consensus‐based multiple‐model Bayesian filtering for distributed tracking
Authors: Battistelli Giorgio , Chisci Luigi , Fantacci Claudio , Farina Alfonso , Graziano Antonio
Published: September 2014

This study addresses distributed state estimation of jump Markovian systems and its application to tracking of a manoeuvring target by means of a network of heterogeneous sensors and communication nodes. Two novel consensus‐based multiple‐model filters are presented. Simulation experiments in a tracking case study, involving a strongly manoeuvring target and a sensor network characterised by weak connectivity, demonstrate the superiority of the proposed distributed multiple‐mode filters with respect to existing solutions.
Analogue network coding‐aided game theoretic medium access control protocol for energy‐efficient data dissemination
Authors: Antonopoulos Angelos , Bastos Joaquim , Verikoukis Christos
Published: September 2014

In this study, a novel medium access scheme based on analogue network coding for data dissemination in wireless networks is presented. Following our previous work, where energy‐efficient medium access strategies based on game theory have been introduced, we propose a medium access control protocol that exploits to the maximum the recent advances in network coding (NC) domain to enhance the system performance. In particular, ZigZag decoding techniques are applied to resolve the data packet collisions, whereas random linear NC is employed to eliminate the need for exchanging control packets. The proposed protocol, evaluated by both analytical and simulation results, is proven to improve the energy efficiency in the network without compromising the provided quality of service.
DTV protection regions for spectrum sharing
Authors: Faruk Nasir , Surajudeen‐Bakinde Nazmat Toyin , Kolade Olabanji , Ayeni Adeseko Aborisade , Adediran Yinusa Ademula
Published: September 2014

In this Letter, the authors propose a technique that allows a secondary user (SU) to reuse the spectrum allocated to TV broadcast system. The approach is based on protection view point and an SU is allowed to transmit outside the noise limited contour (grade B contour) with additional protection margin. An algorithm was developed that predicts the grade B contour and makes a decision on the availability of the spectrum. The keep‐out distance was obtained using the existing path loss models and a model developed based on field strength measurements conducted in the very high frequency (VHF) and ultra high frequency (UHF) broadcast frequencies. Results of simulation indicate that the extra margin does not follow a linear curve as expected, but strongly depends on the operating frequency and terrain profile of the area. In addition, the measured model's prediction deviates significantly from the other models' prediction.
Design of a full‐band polariser used in WR‐22 standard waveguide for satellite communications
Authors: Hwang Soon‐mi , Lee Kwan‐hun
Published: September 2014

This paper studies design of a full‐band waveguide polariser using iris for satellite communications. Operation theory and design parameters of a full‐band polariser are introduced, and a systematic design method has been proposed. The performance of the polariser is analysed using the well‐known commercial electromagnetic simulation software high‐frequency structure simulator. Using the proposed method, a full‐band polariser operating in WR‐22 waveguide band (33–50 GHz) is designed, fabricated and tested. Measurements of the fabricated polariser show that the phase difference is <10° as a reference point by 90°, the axial ratio is <1.3 dB, insertion loss is <0.1 dB and return loss is >25 dB in the required overall band.
Advantages of flattened electrode in bottom contact single-walled carbon nanotube field-effect transistor
Authors: Setiadi Agung , Akai-Kasaya Megumi , Saito Akira , Kuwahara Yuji
Published: September 2014

We fabricated single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) field-effect transistor (FET) devices on flattened electrodes, in which there are no height difference between metal electrodes and the substrate. SWNT-FET fabricated using bottom contact technique have some advantages, such that the SWNTs are free from electron irradiation, have direct contact with the desired metal electrodes, and can be functionalized before or after deposition. However, the SWNTs can be bent at the contact point with the metal electrodes leading to a different electrical characteristic of the devices. The number of SWNT direct junctions in short channel length devices is drastically increased by the use of flattened electrodes due to strong attractive interaction between SWNT and the substrate. The flattened electrodes show a better balance between their hole and electron mobility compared to that of the non-flattened electrodes, that is, ambipolar FET characteristic. It is considered that bending of the SWNTs in the non-flattened electrode devices results in a higher Schottky barrier for the electrons.
The work functions of Au/Mg decorated Au(100), Mg(001), and AuMg alloy surfaces: A theoretical study
Authors: Dubecký Matúš , Dubecký František
Published: September 2014

A plane-wave density functional theory is used to predict the work functions of Au/Mg decorated Au(100), Mg(001), and stochiometric AuMg alloy surfaces. We find, that irrespective of the details, all Au/Mg systems containing Mg on the surface reveal the Mg-dominated work functions, i.e., significantly shifted toward the work function of clean Mg(001) surface. The reported analyses suggest, that this general trend stems from a strong charge transfer from Mg to Au and consequent enhancement of a surface dipole. The calculated properties of the AuMg alloy well agree to the experiment. The reported results may readily find applications in Au/Mg/AuMg surface physics and technology of metal/semiconductor contacts.
Fluid description of multi-component solar partially ionized plasma
Authors: Khomenko E. , Collados M. , Díaz A. , Vitas N.
Published: September 2014

We derive self-consistent formalism for the description of multi-component partially ionized solar plasma, by means of the coupled equations for the charged and neutral components for an arbitrary number of chemical species, and the radiation field. All approximations and assumptions are carefully considered. Generalized Ohm's law is derived for the single-fluid and two-fluid formalism. Our approach is analytical with some order-of-magnitude support calculations. After general equations are developed, we particularize to some frequently considered cases as for the interaction of matter and radiation.
Non-Markovian effects in the first-passage dynamics of obstructed tracer particle diffusion in one-dimensional systems
Authors: Forsling Robin , Sanders Lloyd P. , Ambjörnsson Tobias , Lizana Ludvig
Published: September 2014

The standard setup for single-file diffusion is diffusing particles in one dimension which cannot overtake each other, where the dynamics of a tracer (tagged) particle is of main interest. In this article, we generalize this system and investigate first-passage properties of a tracer particle when flanked by identical crowder particles which may, besides diffuse, unbind (rebind) from (to) the one-dimensional lattice with rates koff (kon). The tracer particle is restricted to diffuse with rate kD on the lattice and the density of crowders is constant (on average). The unbinding rate koff is our key parameter and it allows us to systematically study the non-trivial transition between the completely Markovian case (koff ≫ kD) to the non-Markovian case (koff ≪ kD) governed by strong memory effects. This has relevance for several quasi one-dimensional systems. One example is gene regulation where regulatory proteins are searching for specific binding sites on a crowded DNA. We quantify the first-passage time distribution, f (t) (t is time), numerically using the Gillespie algorithm, and estimate f (t) analytically. In terms of koff (keeping kD fixed), we study the transition between the two known regimes: (i) when koff ≫ kD the particles may effectively pass each other and we recover the single particle result f (t) ∼ t−3/2, with a reduced diffusion constant; (ii) when koff ≪ kD unbinding is rare and we obtain the single-file result f (t) ∼ t−7/4. The intermediate region displays rich dynamics where both the characteristic f (t) – peak and the long-time power-law slope are sensitive to koff.
The threshold for hydrodynamic behaviour in solids under extreme compression
Authors: Bourne N. K.
Published: September 2014

Shock waves are known to display structure within their fronts. At lower stress amplitudes, elastic waves precede an inelastic rise to the final pressure whilst under more extreme loading there is a single inelastic shock to peak stress. These regimes are conventionally termed weak and strong shock behaviour and the transition stress between the two is called the weak shock limit (WSL) here. Shock speeds in an amorphous glass and a FCC metal are shown to change discontinuously as pulses of increasing peak pressure exceed this limit. Further this work correlates the stress at the WSL with the theoretical strength of ca. 40 solids and shows different dependence for close-packed and open structures in metals, polymers, ceramics, and ionic solids.