Search

Abstract IoT sensors are crucial for visualizing multidimensional and multimodal information and enabling future IT applications/services such as cyber-physical spaces, digital twins, autonomous driving, smart cities and virtual/augmented reality (VR or AR). However, IoT sensors need to be battery-free to realistically manage and maintain the growing number of available sensing devices. Here, we provide a novel sensor design approach that employs metasurfaces to enable multifunctional sensing without requiring an external power source. Importantly, unlike existing metasurface-based sensors, our metasurfaces can sense multiple physical parameters even at a fixed frequency by breaking classic harmonic oscillations in the time domain, making the proposed sensors viable for usage with limited frequency resources. Moreover, we provide a method for predicting physical parameters via the machine learning-based approach of random forest regression. The sensing performance was confirmed by estimating the temperature and light intensity, and excellent determination coefficients larger than 0.96 were achieved. Our study affords new opportunities for sensing multiple physical properties without relying on an external power source or requiring multiple frequencies, which markedly simplifies and facilitates the design of next-generation wireless communication systems.

Colibactin is a recently characterized pro-carcinogenic genotoxin produced by pks+ Escherichia coli. We hypothesized that cystic fibrosis (CF)-associated dysfunctional mucus structure increases the vulnerability of host mucosa to colibactin-induced DNA damage. In this pilot study, we tested healthy-appearing mucosal biopsy samples obtained during screening and surveillance colonoscopies of adult CF and non-CF patients for the presence of pks+ E. coli, and we investigated the possibility of detecting a novel colibactin-specific DNA adduct that has not been yet been demonstrated in humans. While CF patients had a lower incidence of pks+ E. coli carriage (~8% vs 29%, p = 0.0015), colibactin-induced DNA adduct formation was detected, but only in CF patients and only in those who were not taking CFTR modulator medications. Moreover, the only patient found to have colon cancer during this study had CF, harbored pks+ E. coli, and had colibactin-induced DNA adducts in the mucosal samples. Larger studies with longitudinal follow-up should be done to extend these initial results and further support the development of colibactin-derived DNA adducts to stratify patients and their risk.

Polymeric materials can boost their performances by strategically incorporating inorganic substances. Heat dissipators are a representative class of such composite materials, where inorganic fillers and matrix polymers contribute to high thermal conductivity and strong adhesion, respectively, resulting in excellent heat dissipation performance. However, due to the complex interaction between fillers and polymers, even slight differences in structural parameters, e.g. dispersion/aggregation degree of fillers and crosslink density of polymers, may significantly impact material performance, complicating the quality management and guidelines for material developments. Therefore, we introduce pyrolysis mass spectra (MS) as material descriptors. On the basis of these spectra, we construct prediction models using a data-driven approach, specifically focusing on thermal conductivity and adhesion, which are key indicators for heat dissipating performance. Pyrolysis-MS observes thermally decomposable polymers, which occupy only 0.1 volume fraction of the heat dissipators; nevertheless, the physical states of non-decomposable inorganic fillers are implicitly reflected in the pyrolyzed fragment patterns of the matrix polymers. Consequently, pyrolysis-MS provides sufficient information to construct accurate models for predicting heat dissipation performance, simplifying quality management by substituting time-consuming performance evaluations with rapid pyrolysis-MS measurements. Furthermore, we elucidate that higher crosslinking density of the matrix polymers enhances thermal conductivity. This data-driven method promises to streamline the identification of key functional factors in complex composite materials.

ABSTRACTIn small series, third-party fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been successful in decolonizing the gut from clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Less is known about the short- and long-term effects of FMT on larger panels of ARGs. We analyzed 226 pre- and post-treatment stool samples from a randomized placebo-controlled trial of FMT in 100 patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation or receiving anti-leukemia induction chemotherapy for 47 ARGs. These patients have heavy antibiotic exposure and a high incidence of colonization with multidrug-resistant organisms. Samples from each patient spanned a period of up to 9 months, allowing us to describe both short- and long-term effects of FMT on ARGs, while the randomized design allowed us to distinguish between spontaneous changes vs. FMT effect. We find an overall bimodal pattern. In the first phase (days to weeks after FMT), low-level transfer of ARGs largely associated with commensal healthy donor microbiota occurs. This phase is followed by long-term resistance to new ARGs as stable communities with colonization resistance are formed after FMT. The clinical implications of these findings are likely context-dependent and require further research. In the setting of cancer and intensive therapy, long-term ARG decolonization could translate into fewer downstream infections.

Abstract Most of previous photocatalysts contain metal species, thus exploring a metal-free photocatalyst is still challenging. A metal-free photocatalyst has an advantage for the development of economical and non-toxic artificial photosynthesis system and/or environmental purification applications. In this study, rhombohedral boron monosulfide (r-BS) was synthesized by a high-pressure solid-state reaction, and its photocatalytic properties were investigated. r-BS absorbed visible light, and its photocurrent action spectrum also exhibited visible light responsivity. The r-BS evolved hydrogen (H2) from water under ultraviolet (UV) as well as under visible light irradiation, and its internal quantum efficiency reached 1.8% under UV light irradiation. In addition to the H2 evolution reaction, the r-BS photocatalyst drove carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction and dye oxidation reactions under UV irradiation. Although bare r-BS was not so stable under strong light irradiation in water, cocatalyst modification improved its stability. These results indicate that r-BS is a new class of non-metal photocatalyst applicable for H2 production, CO2 reduction, and environmental purification reactions.

Abstract Encapsulated systems have been widely used in environmental applications to selectively retain and protect microorganisms. The permeable matrix used for encapsulation, however, limits the accessibility of existing analytical methods to study the behaviour of the encapsulated microorganisms. Here, we present a novel method that overcomes these limitations and enables direct observation and enumeration of encapsulated microbial colonies over a range of spatial and temporal scales. The method involves embedding, cross‐sectioning, and analysing the system via fluorescence in situ hybridization and retains the structure of encapsulants and the morphology of encapsulated colonies. The major novelty of this method lies in its ability to distinguish between, and subsequently analyse, multiple microorganisms within a single encapsulation matrix across depth. Our results demonstrated the applicability and repeatability of this method with alginate‐encapsulated pure (Nitrosomonas europaea) and enrichment cultures (anammox enrichment). The use of this method can potentially reveal interactions between encapsulated microorganisms and their surrounding matrix, as well as quantitatively validate predictions from mathematical models, thereby advancing our understanding of microbial ecology in encapsulated or even biofilm systems and facilitating the optimization of these systems.

Gram-negative bacterium Acinetobacter sp. Tol 5 exhibits high adhesiveness to various surfaces of general materials, from hydrophobic plastics to hydrophilic glass and metals, via AtaA, an Acinetobacter trimeric autotransporter adhesin Although the adhesion of Tol 5 is nonspecific, Tol 5 cells may have prefer materials for adhesion. Here, we examined the adhesion of Tol 5 and other bacteria expressing different TAAs to various materials, including antiadhesive surfaces. The results highlighted the stickiness of Tol 5 through the action of AtaA, which enabled Tol 5 cells to adhere even to antiadhesive materials, including polytetrafluoroethylene with a low surface free energy, a hydrophilic polymer brush with steric hindrance, and mica with an ultrasmooth surface. Single-cell force spectroscopy as an atomic force microscopy technique revealed the strong cell adhesion force of Tol 5 to these antiadhesive materials. Nevertheless, Tol 5 cells showed a weak adhesion force toward a zwitterionic 2-methacryloyloxyethyl-phosphorylcholine (MPC) polymer-coated surface. Dynamic flow chamber experiments revealed that Tol 5 cells, once attached to the MPC polymer-coated surface, were exfoliated by weak shear stress. The underlying adhesive mechanism was presumed to involve exchangeable, weakly bound water molecules. Our results will contribute to the understanding and control of cell adhesion of Tol 5 for immobilized bioprocess applications and other TAA-expressing pathogenic bacteria of medical importance.

Abstract In aging and aged countries, one of the main issues is to establish sufficient nursing homes for seniors. Japan, as one of the most rapidly aged countries, has been reforming nursing homes for the elderly since the 1990s and established a long‐term care insurance system. The purpose of this scoping review is to systematically map the evolution of researches for nursing homes in Japan since the 1990s, particularly with the post‐occupancy evaluation of the introduction of private rooms and small units. Forty‐three articles concerning privatization of rooms, shared spaces, and small unitization in nursing homes were extracted and analyzed. They were published between 1994 and 2021 in Journal of Architecture and Planning, AIJ Journal of Technology, JAABE, and JAR. The results revealed an evaluation of the privatized rooms mainly from the perspectives of residents' lives and care staffing, the effects and issues of the shared spaces introduced at the same time as private rooms, and the evaluation and issues on subsequent unit‐type floor plans. This study offers significant implications to Asian countries that will have aging and aged populations in the near future by summarizing Japan's experience in dealing with realistic and practical problems over the past 20 years.

Abstract Objective Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS) is a heritable disorder of connective tissue closely related to Marfan syndrome (MFS). LDS is caused by loss‐of‐function variants of genes that encode components of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling; nevertheless, LDS type 1/2 caused by TGFBR1/2 pathogenic variants is frequently found to have paradoxical increases in TGF‐β signaling in the aneurysmal aortic wall. Here, we present a Japanese LDS family having a novel SMAD3 variant. Methods The proband was tested via clinical, genetic, and histological analyses. In vitro analysis was performed for pathogenic evaluation. Results The novel heterozygous missense variant of SMAD3 [c.1262G>A, p.(Cys421Tyr)], located just upstream of the C‐terminal Ser423‐X‐Ser425 phosphorylation motif, was found in this instance of LDS type 3. This variant led to reduced phospho‐SMAD3 (Ser423/Ser425) levels and transcription activity in vitro; however, a paradoxical upregulation of TGF‐β signaling was evident in the aortic wall. Conclusions Our results revealed the presence of TGF‐β paradox in this case with the novel loss‐of‐function SMAD3 variant. The precise mechanism underlying the paradox is unknown, but further research is warranted to clarify the influence of the SMAD3 variant type and location on the LDS3 phenotype as well as the molecular mechanism leading to LDS3 aortopathy.

Abstract Lung transplantation (LT) is the only option for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) refractory to maximal medical therapy. However, some patients referred for LT could survive without LT, and its determinants remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate prognostic factors of severe PAH at the referral time. We retrospectively analyzed 34 patients referred for LT evaluation. The primary outcome was a composite of death or LT. Over a median follow-up period of 2.56 years, eight patients received LT and eight died. Compared with LT-free survival group, pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) was higher (p = 0.042), and the ratio of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to PASP (TAPSE/PASP) was lower (p = 0.01) in LT or death group. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve was 0.759 (95% confidence interval 0.589–0.929) for TAPSE/PASP to predict primary outcome, and the optimal cut-off value was 0.30 mm/mmHg (sensitivity 0.875 and specificity 0.667). In a multivariate analysis, TAPSE/PASP was independently associated with death or LT. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a better LT-free survival in patients with TAPSE/PASP ≧0.30 mm/mmHg than in those with

Abstract 2D materials have manifested themselves as key components toward compact integrated circuits. Because of their capability to circumvent the diffraction limit, light manipulation using surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) is highly‐valued. In this study, plasmonic photodetection using graphene as a 2D material is investigated. Non‐scattering near‐field detection of SPPs is implemented via monolayer graphene stacked under an SPP waveguide with a symmetric antenna. Energy conversion between radiation power and electrical signals is utilized for the photovoltaic and photoconductive processes of the gold‐graphene interface and biased electrodes, measuring a maximum photoresponsivity of 29.2 mA W−1. The generated photocurrent is altered under the polarization state of the input light, producing a 400% contrast between the maximum and minimum signals. This result is universally applicable to all on‐chip optoelectronic circuits.

ABSTRACT Woodchip bioreactors (WBRs) are used to remove nutrients, especially nitrate, from subsurface drainage. The nitrogen removal efficiency of WBRs, however, is limited by low temperatures and the availability of labile carbon. Bioaugmentation and biostimulation are potential approaches to enhance nitrate removal of WBRs under cold conditions, but their effectiveness is still unclear. Here, we clarified the effects of bioaugmentation and biostimulation on the microbiomes and nitrate removal rates of WBRs. As a bioaugmentation treatment, we inoculated WBR-borne cold-adapted denitrifying bacteria Cellulomonas cellasea strain WB94 and Microvirgula aerodenitrificans strain BE2.4 into the WBRs located at Willmar, MN, USA. As a biostimulation treatment, acetate was added to the WBRs to promote denitrification. Woodchip samples were collected from multiple locations in each WBR before and after the treatments and used for the microbiome analysis. The 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that the microbiomes changed by the treatments and season. The high-throughput quantitative PCR for nitrogen cycle genes revealed a higher abundance of denitrification genes at locations closer to the WBR inlet, suggesting that denitrifiers are unevenly present in WBRs. In addition, a positive relationship was identified between the abundance of M. aerodenitrificans strain BE2.4 and those of norB and nosZ in the WBRs. Based on generalized linear modeling, the abundance of norB and nosZ was shown to be useful in predicting the nitrate removal rate of WBRs. Taken together, these results suggest that the bioaugmentation and biostimulation treatments can influence denitrifier populations, thereby influencing the nitrate removal of WBRs. IMPORTANCE Nitrate pollution is a serious problem in agricultural areas in the U.S. Midwest and other parts of the world. Woodchip bioreactor is a promising technology that uses microbial denitrification to remove nitrate from agricultural subsurface drainage, although the reactor’s nitrate removal performance is limited under cold conditions. This study showed that the inoculation of cold-adapted denitrifiers (i.e., bioaugmentation) and the addition of labile carbon (i.e., biostimulation) can influence the microbial populations and enhance the reactor’s performance under cold conditions. This finding will help establish a strategy to mitigate nitrate pollution.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a life-threatening disease characterized by a progressive narrowing of pulmonary arterioles. Although VEGF is highly expressed in lung of patients with PH and in animal PH models, the involvement of angiogenesis remains elusive. To clarify the pathophysiological function of angiogenesis in PH, we compared the angiogenic response in hypoxia (Hx) and SU5416 (a VEGFR2 inhibitor) plus Hx (SuHx) mouse PH models using 3D imaging. The 3D imaging analysis revealed an angiogenic response in the lung of the Hx-PH, but not of the severer SuHx-PH model. Selective VEGFR2 inhibition with cabozantinib plus Hx in mice also suppressed angiogenic response and exacerbated Hx-PH to the same extent as SuHx. Expression of endothelial proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) increased along with angiogenesis in lung of Hx-PH but not SuHx mice. In pulmonary endothelial cell–specific Ppargc1a-KO mice, the Hx-induced angiogenesis was suppressed, and PH was exacerbated along with increased oxidative stress, cellular senescence, and DNA damage. By contrast, treatment with baicalin, a flavonoid enhancing PGC-1α activity in endothelial cells, ameliorated Hx-PH with increased Vegfa expression and angiogenesis. Pulmonary endothelial PGC-1α–mediated angiogenesis is essential for adaptive responses to Hx and might represent a potential therapeutic target for PH.

Abstract Tamm plasmon polariton (TPP) resonance can be excited within the stopband of a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) by combining a thin metal film. When exposured to hydrogen gas, the TPP resonance feature is redshifted for the TPPs structure with palladium (Pd) on the top, due to hydrogen‐induced palladium lattice expansion. By utilizing a DBR‐side TPP structure, near‐zero reflectance can be achieved, leading to more than 3 orders of magnitude changes in reflectance compared to metal‐side TPP structure. The proposed TPP hydrogen structure enables the detection with low H2 concentration from 0.5% to 4%. Comparing to the only Pd film, TPP sensor has increased the sensitivity about 100% at visible wavelengths.

Abstract Diastolic stiffness coefficient (β) and end‐diastolic elastance (Eed) are ventricular‐specific diastolic parameters. However, the diastolic function of right ventricle had not been investigated sufficiently due to the lack of established evaluation method. We evaluated the validity of these parameters calculated using only data of right heart catheterization (RHC) and assessed it in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) and cardiac amyloidosis. We retrospectively analyzed 46 patients with heart failure who underwent RHC within 10 days of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Right ventricular end‐diastolic volume and end‐systolic volume were calculated using only RHC data, which were found to be finely correlated with those obtained from CMR. β and Eed calculated by this method were also significantly correlated with those derived from conventional method using CMR. By this method, β and Eed were significantly higher in RCM with amyloidosis group than dilated cardiomyopathy group. In addition, the β and Eed calculated by our method were finely correlated with E/A ratio on echocardiography. We established an easy method to estimate β and Eed of right ventricle from only RHC. The method finely demonstrated right ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with RCM and amyloidosis.

Abstract Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressively life‐threatening disease that causes right heart failure (RHF). Renal dysfunction frequently complicates PAH with RHF and is associated with a worse prognosis. Renal replacement therapy (RRT) may be a therapeutic option, although its efficacy and safety are unclear. We describe a 30‐year‐old male with severe PAH who developed renal insufficiency and diuretic‐refractory volume overload complicated with RHF but was successfully managed with intermittent RRT via a subcutaneously fixed superficial artery for 4 years. RRT led to haemodynamic stability, which enabled us to carefully de‐titrate parenteral PAH drugs without worsening RHF. This case highlights that RRT may be a potential alternative for haemodynamic and volume control of refractory fluid retention complicated with RHF in severe PAH cases. Further studies are warranted to gain more insight into patient selection and the optimal timing of RRT in PAH patients with deteriorating RHF.

Fabry disease (FD) is an inherited disease caused by deficient α-galactosidase A activity that is characterized by the accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and globotriaosylsphingosine (lyso-Gb3). Although plasma lyso-Gb3 is a sensitive biomarker of FD, the correlation between its concentration and clinical symptoms remains unclear. To clarify the influence of plasma Gb3 and lyso-Gb3 in a symptomatic GlatmTg(CAG-A4GALT) FD mouse model, the total contents of Gb3, lyso-Gb3 and their analogs in various organs and plasma were determined in mice with early- (5-week-old) and late-stage (20-week-old) renal dysfunction. A marked increase in total Gb3 content in the heart, kidneys, spleen, liver, small intestine, lungs, brain, and plasma was observed in the 20-week-old mice compared to that in 5-week-old mice. In contrast, the increase in lyso-Gb3 was relatively small, and the total content in the lungs and plasma was unchanged. Lyso-Gb3 analogs {lyso-Gb3(−2) and lyso-Gb3(+18)} and Gb3 analogs {Gb3(−2) and Gb3(+18)} were observed in all organs and plasma at both ages, and the percentages of the analogs were unique to specific organs. The pattern of 37 Gb3 analogs/isoforms of liver Gb3 corresponded well with that of plasma Gb3. Although the analog pattern of plasma lyso-Gb3 did not resemble that of any organ lyso-Gb3, the relative content {lyso-Gb3: lyso-Gb3(−2)} in the sum of all organs corresponded well to that of the plasma at both ages. These data indicate that liver Gb3 may contribute to the plasma Gb3 level, while plasma lyso-Gb3 may be released from all organs, and the capacity of the plasma lyso-Gb3 pool may reach a maximum at an early stage of renal dysfunction.

Abstract Background Cryoconite granules are mineral–microbial aggregates found on glacier surfaces worldwide and are hotspots of biogeochemical reactions in glacier ecosystems. However, despite their importance within glacier ecosystems, the geographical diversity of taxonomic assemblages and metabolic potential of cryoconite communities around the globe remain unclear. In particular, the genomic content of cryoconite communities on Asia’s high mountain glaciers, which represent a substantial portion of Earth’s ice masses, has rarely been reported. Therefore, in this study, to elucidate the taxonomic and ecological diversities of cryoconite bacterial consortia on a global scale, we conducted shotgun metagenomic sequencing of cryoconite acquired from a range of geographical areas comprising Polar (Arctic and Antarctic) and Asian alpine regions. Results Our metagenomic data indicate that compositions of both bacterial taxa and functional genes are particularly distinctive for Asian cryoconite. Read abundance of the genes responsible for denitrification was significantly more abundant in Asian cryoconite than the Polar cryoconite, implying that denitrification is more enhanced in Asian glaciers. The taxonomic composition of Cyanobacteria, the key primary producers in cryoconite communities, also differs between the Polar and Asian samples. Analyses on the metagenome-assembled genomes and fluorescence emission spectra reveal that Asian cryoconite is dominated by multiple cyanobacterial lineages possessing phycoerythrin, a green light-harvesting component for photosynthesis. In contrast, Polar cryoconite is dominated by a single cyanobacterial species Phormidesmis priestleyi that does not possess phycoerythrin. These findings suggest that the assemblage of cryoconite bacterial communities respond to regional- or glacier-specific physicochemical conditions, such as the availability of nutrients (e.g., nitrate and dissolved organic carbon) and light (i.e., incident shortwave radiation). Conclusions Our genome-resolved metagenomics provides the first characterization of the taxonomic and metabolic diversities of cryoconite from contrasting geographical areas, highlighted by the distinct light-harvesting approaches of Cyanobacteria and nitrogen utilization between Polar and Asian cryoconite, and implies the existence of environmental controls on the assemblage of cryoconite communities. These findings deepen our understanding of the biodiversity and biogeochemical cycles of glacier ecosystems, which are susceptible to ongoing climate change and glacier decline, on a global scale. Video abstract

Abstract Imaging observations of OH airglow were performed at Meiji University, Japan (35.6° N, 139.5° E), from May 2018 to December 2019. Mountainous areas are located to the west of the imager, and westerly winds are dominant in the lower atmosphere throughout the year. Mountain waves (MWs) are generated and occasionally propagate to the upper atmosphere. However, only four likely MW events were identified, which are considerably fewer than expected. There are two possible reasons for the low incidence: (1) MWs do not propagate easily to the upper mesosphere due to background wind conditions, and/or (2) the frequency of MW excitation was low around the observation site. Former possibility is found not to be a main reason to explain the frequency by assuming typical wind profiles in troposphere and upper mesosphere over Japan. Thus, frequency and spatial distribution of orographic wavy clouds were investigated by analyzing images taken by the Himawari-8 geostationary meteorological satellite in 2018. The number of days when wavy clouds were detected in the troposphere around the observation site (Kanto area) was about a quarter of that around the Tohoku area. This result indicates that frequency of over-mountain flow which is thought to be a source of excitation of MWs is low in Kanto area. We also found that the angle between the horizontal wind direction in troposphere and the orientation of the mountain ridge is a good proxy for the occurrence of orographic wavy clouds, i.e., excitation of MWs. We applied this proxy to the topography around the world to investigate regions where MWs are likely to be excited frequently throughout the year to discuss the likelihood of "MW hotspots" at various spatial scale. Graphical Abstract

Abstract The exact occurrence frequency of noctilucent clouds (NLCs) in middle latitudes is significant information because it is thought to be sensitive to long-term atmospheric change. We conducted NLC observation from airline jets in the Northern Hemisphere during the summer 2019 to evaluate the effectiveness of NLC observation from airborne platforms. By cooperating with the Japanese airline All Nippon Airways (ANA), imaging observations of NLCs were conducted on 13 flights from Jun 8 to Jul 12. As a result of careful analysis, 8 of these 13 flights were found to successfully detect NLCs from middle latitudes (lower than 55° N) during their cruising phase. Based on the results of these test observations, it is shown that an airline jet is a powerful tool to continuously monitor the occurrence frequency of NLCs at midlatitudes which is generally difficult with a polar orbiting satellite due to sparse sampling in both temporal and spatial domain. The advantages and merits of NLC observation from jets over satellite observation from a point of view of imaging geometry are also presented.

Abstract A plasmonic nanostructure forming a metal‐semiconductor interface generates electric potential by optical illumination. Grounded plasmonic nanostructures can also generate electric potentials based on the recently demonstrated plasmoelectric effect that allows all metallic photoelectric devices to be fabricated and is capable of generating negative and positive potentials at off‐resonance by merely tuning the illumination wavelength. However, to date, the plasmoelectric effect has been observed only with gold and silver. In this study, the generation of plasmoelectric effect by zirconium nitride (ZrN) is experimentally demonstrated, which is a nonmetallic plasmonic material. The Kelvin probe force microscope measurements demonstrate that ZrN nanodisk arrays fabricated through e‐beam lithography and dry etching exhibit characteristic potential sign changes of the plasmoelectric potential. The features of the wavelength‐dependent potential shifts in the experiments agree with the numerical calculations. It is anticipated that the plasmoelectric effect can be observed in other non‐metallic plasmonic materials and these studies may lead to robust photoelectric devices working at off‐resonances.

Microbial nitrogen (N) cycling pathways are largely responsible for producing forms of N that are available for plant uptake or lost from the system as gas or leachate. The temporal dynamics of microbial N pathways in tropical agroecosystems are not well defined, even though they are critical to understanding the potential impact of soil conservation strategies. We aimed to 1) characterize temporal changes in functional gene associations across a seasonal gradient, 2) identify keystone genes that play a central role in connecting N cycle functions, and 3) detect gene co-occurrences that remained stable over time. Soil samples (n = 335) were collected from two replicated field trials in Rwanda between September 2020 and March 2021. We found high variability among N-cycle gene relationships and network properties that was driven more by sampling timepoint than by location. Two nitrification gene targets, hydroxylamine oxidoreductase and nitrite oxidoreductase, co-occurred across all timepoints, indicating that they may be ideal year-round targets to limit nitrification in rainfed agricultural soils. We also found that gene keystoneness varied across time, suggesting that management practices to enhance N-cycle functions such as the application of nitrification inhibitors could be adapted to seasonal conditions. Our results mark an important first step in employing gene networks to infer function in soil biogeochemical cycles, using a tropical seasonal gradient as a model system.

For any thermoelectric effects to be achieved, a thermoelectric material must have hot and cold sides. Typically, the hot side can be easily obtained by excess heat. However, the passive cooling method is often limited to convective heat transfer to the surroundings. Since thermoelectric voltage is proportional to the temperature difference between the hot and cold sides, efficient passive cooling to increase the temperature gradient is of critical importance. Here, we report simultaneous harvesting of radiative cooling at the top and solar heating at the bottom to enhance the temperature gradient for a transverse thermoelectric effect which generates thermoelectric voltage perpendicular to the temperature gradient. We demonstrate this concept by using the spin Seebeck effect and confirm that the spin Seebeck device shows the highest thermoelectric voltage when both radiative cooling and solar heating are utilized. Furthermore, the device generates thermoelectric voltage even at night through radiative cooling which enables continuous energy harvesting throughout a day. Planar geometry and scalable fabrication process are advantageous for energy harvesting applications.

Fabry disease is an X-linked disorder of α-galactosidase A (GLA) deficiency. Our previous interim analysis (1 July 2014 to 31 December 2015) revealed plasma globotriaosylsphingosine as a promising primary screening biomarker for Fabry disease probands. Herein, we report the final results, including patients enrolled from 1 January to 31 December 2016 for evaluating the potential of plasma globotriaosylsphingosine and GLA activity as a combined screening marker. We screened 5691 patients (3439 males) referred from 237 Japanese specialty clinics based on clinical findings suggestive of Fabry disease using plasma globotriaosylsphingosine and GLA activity as primary screening markers, and GLA variant status as a secondary screening marker. Of the 14 males who tested positive in the globotriaosylsphingosine screen (≥2.0 ng/mL), 11 with low GLA activity (GLA variants (four classic, seven late-onset) and one with normal GLA activity and no pathogenic variant displayed lamellar bodies in affected organs, indicating late-onset biopsy-proven Fabry disease. Of the 19 females who tested positive in the globotriaosylsphingosine screen, eight with low GLA activity displayed GLA variants (six classic, two late-onset) and five with normal GLA activity displayed a GLA variant (one classic) and no pathogenic variant (four late-onset biopsy-proven). The combination of plasma globotriaosylsphingosine and GLA activity can be a primary screening biomarker for classic, late-onset, and late-onset biopsy-proven Fabry disease probands.

Abstract Traditional hydropower generation is one of the most sustainable energy sources; however, the local environmental impact of hydroelectric dams and reservoirs is serious, and hydroelectric power requires high-cost turbines and generators. Because these installations utilize gravitational potential energy of massive volumes of falling water, this sort of hydropower generation is unsuitable for ubiquitous, small-scale energy production. Here, we report that wetting and evaporation of pure water from a tiny block of porous alumina generates electrical current in the direction of water transpiration. The current induced in microporous alumina is associated with mass transport of water accompanying ions that accumulate near the negatively charged surface of alumina pores. Without any pre-treatment or additives, once evaporation commences, a 3 × 3 cm2 piece of alumina can generate an open-circuit voltage as large as 0.27 V. The power generation scheme we propose here is simple, clean, and versatile, and it can be employed anywhere, as it utilizes only spontaneous capillary action of water and Coulombic interaction at the alumina-water interface, without requiring any input of heat or light.

Abstract Exciton–polariton coupling between transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) monolayer and plasmonic nanostructures generates additional states that are rich in physics, gaining significant attention in recent years. In exciton–polariton coupling, the understanding of electronic-energy exchange in Rabi splitting is critical. The typical structures that have been adopted to study the coupling are “TMD monolayers embedded in a metallic-nanoparticle-on-mirror (NPoM) system.” However, the exciton orientations are not parallel to the induced dipole direction of the NPoM system, which leads to inefficient coupling. Our proposed one-dimensional plasmonic nanogrooves (NGs) can align the MoS2 monolayers’ exciton orientation and plasmon polaritons in parallel, which addresses the aforementioned issue. In addition, we clearly reveal the maximum surface potential (SP) change on intermediate coupled sample by the photo-excitation caused by the carrier rearrangement. As a result, a significant Rabi splitting (65 meV) at room temperature is demonstrated. Furthermore, we attribute the photoluminescence enhancement to the parallel exciton–polariton interactions.

Abstract Low bone mineral density (BMD)—diagnosed as osteoporosis or osteopenia—has been reported as a new characteristic feature of Fabry disease; however, the mechanism underlying the development of low BMD is unknown. We previously revealed that a mouse model of Fabry disease [GlatmTg(CAG‐A4GALT)] exhibits impaired functioning of medullary thick ascending limb (mTAL), leading to insufficient Ca2+ reabsorption and hypercalciuria. Here, we investigated bone metabolism in GlatmTg(CAG‐A4GALT) mice without marked glomerular or proximal tubular damage. Low BMD was detected by 20 weeks of age via micro‐X‐ray‐computed tomography. Bone histomorphometry revealed that low BMD results by accelerated bone resorption and osteomalacia. Plasma parathyroid hormone levels increased in response to low blood Ca2+—not plasma fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF‐23) elevation—by 5 weeks of age and showed progressively increased phosphaturic action. Secondary hyperparathyroidism developed by 20 weeks of age and caused hyperphosphatemia, which increased plasma FGF‐23 levels with phosphaturic action. The expression of 1α‐hydroxylase [synthesis of 1α,25(OH)2D3] in the kidney did not decrease, but that of 24‐hydroxylase [degradation of 1α,25(OH)2D3] decreased. Vitamin D deficiency was ruled out as the cause of osteomalacia, as plasma 1α,25(OH)2D3 and 25(OH)D3 levels were maintained. Results demonstrate that secondary hyperparathyroidism due to mTAL impairment causes accelerated bone resorption and osteomalacia due to hyperphosphaturia and hypercalciuria, leading to low BMD in Fabry model mice.

One of the major challenges in detecting waterborne pathogens is the low concentration of the target bacteria in water. In this study, we applied the coagulation and foam concentration method to obtain DNA from water samples collected from upstream, near an estuary. The DNA samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to clarify the microbial community shifts and to identify potentially pathogenic bacteria. Bacterial communities changed as the river flowed downstream, most likely influenced by land use and human activities such as the discharge of wastewater-treatment plant effluent. Based on the 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, potentially pathogenic bacteria were detected with greater than 0.1% of their relative abundances. Among these, Yersinia ruckeri and Pseudomonas alcaligenes were widely detected in the river water. In addition, digital PCR (dPCR) was used to quantify major waterborne pathogens. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Shigella spp., and Campylobacter jejuni were all below the limit of detection. In contrast, general E. coli, which has the beta-D-glucuronidase gene (uidA) were detected by dPCR (copies/100 mL) at similar levels to those measured using the culture-based method (as colony forming units/100 mL). These results suggest that the coagulation and foam concentration method is useful for concentrating microbes and obtaining DNA from river water samples for environmental monitoring.

The quantity of grass-root exudates varies by season, suggesting temporal shifts in soil microbial community composition and activity across a growing season. We hypothesized that bacterial community and nitrogen cycle-associated prokaryotic gene expressions shift across three phases of the growing season. To test this hypothesis, we quantified gene and transcript copy number of nitrogen fixation (nifH), ammonia oxidation (amoA, hao, nxrB), denitrification (narG, napA, nirK, nirS, norB, nosZ), dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (nrfA), and anaerobic ammonium oxidation (hzs, hdh) using the pre-optimized Nitrogen Cycle Evaluation (NiCE) chip. Bacterial community composition was characterized using V3-V4 of the 16S rRNA gene, and PICRUSt2 was used to draw out functional inferences. Surprisingly, the nitrogen cycle genes and transcript quantities were largely stable and unresponsive to seasonal changes. We found that genes and transcripts related to ammonia oxidation and denitrification were different for only one or two time points across the seasons (p < 0.05). However, overall, the nitrogen cycling genes did not show drastic variations. Similarly, the bacterial community also did not vary across the seasons. In contrast, the predicted functional potential was slightly low for May and remained constant for other months. Moreover, soil chemical properties showed a seasonal pattern only for nitrate and ammonium concentrations, while ammonia oxidation and denitrification transcripts were strongly correlated with each other. Hence, the results refuted our assumptions, showing stability in N cycling and bacterial community across growing seasons in a natural grassland.

Increased transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling contributes to the pathophysiology of aortic aneurysm in Marfan syndrome (MFS). Recent reports indicate that a small but significant number of inflammatory cells are infiltrated into the aortic media and adventitia in MFS. However, little is known about the contribution of myeloid cells to aortic aneurysmal formation. In this study, we ablated the TGF-β type II receptor gene Tgfbr2 in myeloid cells of Fbn1C1039G/+ MFS mice (Fbn1C1039G/+;LysM-Cre/+;Tgfbr2fl/fl mice, hereinafter called Fbn1C1039G/+;Tgfbr2MyeKO) and evaluated macrophage infiltration and TGF-β signaling in the aorta. Aneurysmal formation with fragmentation and disarray of medial elastic fibers observed in MFS mice was significantly ameliorated in Fbn1C1039G/+;Tgfbr2MyeKO mice. In the aorta of Fbn1C1039G/+;Tgfbr2MyeKO mice, both canonical and noncanonical TGF-β signals were attenuated and the number of infiltrated F4/80-positive macrophages was significantly reduced. In vitro, TGF-β enhanced the migration capacity of RAW264.7 macrophages. These findings suggest that TGF-β signaling in myeloid cells promotes aortic aneurysmal formation and its inhibition might be a novel therapeutic target in MFS.

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and LPA1 receptor signaling play a crucial role in the initiation of peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain through the alternation of pain-related genes/proteins expression and demyelination. However, LPA and its signaling in the brain are still poorly understood. In the present study, we revealed that the LPA5 receptor expression in corpus callosum elevated after the initiation of demyelination, and the hyperalgesia through Aδ-fibers following cuprizone-induced demyelination was mediated by LPA5 signaling. These data suggest that LPA5 signaling may play a key role in the mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain following demyelination in the brain. Keywords: LPA5, Neuropathic pain, Multiple sclerosis

The relationship between the structural characteristics of hydrothermally synthesized ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles and the pH of the source solution used during the precursor preparation process was investigated. A pH of approximately 9 was the turning point between large and small crystallite-sized regimes, and between stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric compositions. This difference can likely be attributed to the formation process of ZnAl2O4, because the stabilities of the Zn2+ and Al3+ hydroxides in the source solution change at pH 9. Additionally, we compared the catalytic performance with regards to the decomposition of methylene blue for the nanoparticles made from source solution with pH 7 (NP7) and 10.5 (NP10.5). The smaller-sized NP7 did not show any catalytic performance; whereas, the larger NP10.5 accelerated the decomposition of methylene blue. The critical difference between NP7 and NP10.5 is the Zn2+ deficiency, rather than the particle size. This result is important for future investigations in order to improve the catalytic properties of ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles.

Vascular normalization in tumors may improve drug delivery and anti-tumor immunity. Angiogenesis inhibitors induce hypoxia, which may facilitate malignant progression; therefore, we investigated other methods to promote vascular maturation. Here, we show that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) enhances blood flow by promoting fine vascular networks, thereby improving vascular permeability and suppressing tumor growth when combined with anti-cancer drug treatment. Six different G protein-coupled receptors have been identified as LPA receptors (LPA1–6). In studies using mutant mice, we found that LPA4 is involved in vascular network formation. LPA4 activation induces circumferential actin bundling beneath the cell membrane and enhances linear adherens junction formation by VE-cadherin in endothelial cells. Therefore, we conclude that activation of LPA4 is a promising approach for vascular regulation.

Abstract Merging photonic structures and optoelectronic sensors into a single chip may yield a sensor‐on‐chip spectroscopic device that can measure the spectrum of matter. In this work, an on‐chip concurrent multiwavelength infrared (IR) sensor, which consists of a set of narrowband wavelength‐selective plasmonic perfect absorbers combined with pyroelectric sensors, where the response of each pyroelectric sensor is boosted only at the resonance of the nanostructured absorber, is proposed and realized. The proposed absorber, which is based on Wood's anomaly absorption from a 2D plasmonic square lattice, shows a narrowband polarization‐independent resonance (quality factor – Q of 73) with a nearly perfect absorptivity as high as 0.99 at normal incidence. The fabricated quad‐wavelength IR sensors exhibit four different narrowband spectral responses at normal incidence following the predesigned resonances in the mid‐wavelength infrared region that corresponds to the atmospheric window. The device can be applied for practical spectroscopic applications such as nondispersive IR sensors, IR chemical imaging devices, pyrometers, and spectroscopic thermography imaging.

For the full benefit of the silicon chip industry and to further shift the photoresponse cut-off wavelength of the silicon photodetectors, high-performance Ag-doped Si p-n photodiodes with an extended infrared photoresponsivity are constructed on the bulk silicon wafer by a facile thermal diffusion process at 550 °C for different annealing periods of 5, 10, and 15 minutes under an argon atmosphere. These Si-compatible p-n photodiodes revealed an obvious zero-bias room temperature photoresponsivity with a threshold photon energy at a longer wavelength compared to the photoresponsivity cut-off wavelength of the commercial Si photodiode of the Hamamatsu Photonics Co (model: S2281/-04). The photoresponsivity has decreased with the annealing time increase however; the detectivity has been improved by the significant drop in leakage current and noise power. The outcomes indicate that this study paves the way for developing cost-effective Si-compatible p-n junction photodiodes, with an obvious zero-biased room-temperature photoresponsivity of a comparable intensity and longer cut-off wavelength compared to the commercial Hamamatsu Si photodiode.

Woodchip bioreactor technology removes nitrate from agricultural subsurface drainage by using denitrifying microorganisms. Although woodchip bioreactors have demonstrated success in many field locations, low water temperature can significantly limit bioreactor efficiency and performance. To improve bioreactor performance, it is important to identify the microbes responsible for nitrate removal at low temperature conditions. Therefore, in this study, we identified and characterized denitrifiers active at low-temperature conditions by using culture-independent and -dependent approaches. By comparative 16S rRNA (gene) analysis and culture isolation technique, Pseudomonas spp., Polaromonas spp., and Cellulomonas spp. were identified as being important bacteria responsible for denitrification in woodchip bioreactor microcosms at relatively low temperature conditions (15°C). Genome analysis of Cellulomonas sp. strain WB94 confirmed the presence of nitrite reductase gene nirK. Transcription levels of this nirK were significantly higher in the denitrifying microcosms than in the non-denitrifying microcosms. Strain WB94 was also capable of degrading cellulose and other complex polysaccharides. Taken together, our results suggest that Cellulomonas sp. denitrifiers could degrade woodchips to provide carbon source and electron donors to themselves and other denitrifiers in woodchip bioreactors at low-temperature conditions. By inoculating these denitrifiers (i.e., bioaugmentation), it might be possible to increase the nitrate removal rate of woodchip bioreactors at low-temperature conditions.

LaO0.5F0.5BiS2 nanosheets were produced by ultrasonification. A slightly reddish colloidal suspension was obtained by ultrasonification of LaO0.5F0.5BiS2 powder in ethanol. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of the dried suspension indicated the nanosheet morphology of LaO0.5F0.5BiS2, and the electron diffraction spots indicated 4-fold symmetry. The thickness of the sheets was 2–6 nm, which corresponded to 2–4 unit cells of the c-axis of LaO0.5F0.5BiS2.

Current approach to identify sources of human pathogens is largely dependent on the cultivation and isolation of target bacteria. For rapid pathogen source identification, culture-independent strain typing method is necessary. In this study, we designed new primer set that broadly covers flaA short variable region (SVR) of various Campylobacter species, and applied the flaA SVR sequencing method to examine the diversity of Campylobacter spp. in geese fecal samples (n = 16) with and without bacteria cultivation. Twenty-three Campylobacter strains isolated from the 16 geese fecal samples were grouped similarly by conventional flaA restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method and by the flaA SVR sequencing method, but higher discriminant power was observed in the flaA SVR sequencing approach. For culture-independent flaA SVR sequencing analysis, we developed and optimized the sequence data analysis pipeline to identify as many genotypes as possible, while minimizing the detection of genotypes generated by sequencing errors. By using this pipeline, 51,629 high-quality flaA sequence reads were clustered into 16 operational taxonomic units (=genotypes) by using 98% sequence similarity and >50 sequence duplicates. Almost all flaA genotypes obtained by culture-dependent method were also identified by culture-independent flaA SVR MiSeq sequencing method. In addition, more flaA genotypes were identified probably due to high throughput nature of the MiSeq sequencing. These results suggest that the flaA SVR sequencing could be used to analyze the diversity of Campylobacter spp. without bacteria isolation. This method is promising to rapidly identify potential sources of Campylobacter pathogens.

Detection and genotyping of pathogenic RNA viruses in human and environmental samples are useful for monitoring the circulation and prevalence of these pathogens, whereas a conventional PCR assay followed by Sanger sequencing is time-consuming and laborious. The present study aimed to develop a high-throughput detection-and-genotyping tool for 11 human RNA viruses [Aichi virus; astrovirus; enterovirus; norovirus genogroup I (GI), GII, and GIV; hepatitis A virus; hepatitis E virus; rotavirus; sapovirus; and human parechovirus] using a microfluidic device and next-generation sequencer. Microfluidic nested PCR was carried out on a 48.48 Access Array chip, and the amplicons were recovered and used for MiSeq sequencing (Illumina, Tokyo, Japan); genotyping was conducted by homology searching and phylogenetic analysis of the obtained sequence reads. The detection limit of the 11 tested viruses ranged from 100 to 103 copies/μL in cDNA sample, corresponding to 101–104 copies/mL-sewage, 105–108 copies/g-human feces, and 102–105 copies/g-digestive tissues of oyster. The developed assay was successfully applied for simultaneous detection and genotyping of RNA viruses to samples of human feces, sewage, and artificially contaminated oysters. Microfluidic nested PCR followed by MiSeq sequencing enables efficient tracking of the fate of multiple RNA viruses in various environments, which is essential for a better understanding of the circulation of human pathogenic RNA viruses in the human population.

A subwavelength plasmonic absorber is an ideal platform for absorbing light locally at a desired wavelength. Here, we demonstrate wavelength-selective spin current generation by combining plasmonic absorbers with Pt/yttrium-iron-garnet spintronic devices. These devices are widely used for investigating spin-current phenomena, such as the spin Seebeck effect. At the resonance of the plasmonic absorber in the mid-infrared regime, enhanced spin-current signals are recorded. The observed light-induced spin current can be attributed to both the spin Seebeck effect and photo-spin-voltaic effect. Our results open new prospects for using plasmonic absorbers to bridge nanophotonics and spintronics in numbers of opto-spintronic applications.

Spectrally selective detection is of crucial importance for diverse modern spectroscopic applications such as multi-wavelength pyrometry, non-dispersive infrared gas sensing, biomedical analysis, flame detection, and thermal imaging. This paper reports a quad-wavelength hybrid plasmonic−pyroelectric detector that exhibited spectrally selective infrared detection at four wavelengths—3.3, 3.7, 4.1, and 4.5 μm. The narrowband detection was achieved by coupling the incident infrared light to the resonant modes of the four different plasmonic perfect absorbers based on Al-disk-array placed on a Al2O3−Al bilayer. These absorbers were directly integrated on top of a zinc oxide thin film functioning as a pyroelectric transducer. The device was fabricated using micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) technology to optimize the spectral responsivity. The proposed detector operated at room temperature and exhibited a responsivity of approximately 100−140 mV/W with a full width at half maximum of about 0.9−1.2 μm. The wavelength tunability, high spectral resolution, compactness and robust MEMS-based platform of the hybrid device demonstrated a great advantage over conventional photodetectors with bandpass filters, and exhibited impressive possibilities for miniature multi-wavelength spectroscopic devices.

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a compact design for membrane-supported wavelength-selective infrared (IR) bolometers. The proposed bolometer device is composed of wavelength-selective absorbers functioning as the efficient spectroscopic IR light-to-heat transducers that make the amorphous silicon (a-Si) bolometers respond at the desired resonance wavelengths. The proposed devices with specific resonances are first numerically simulated to obtain the optimal geometrical parameters and then experimentally realized. The fabricated devices exhibit a wide resonance tunability in the mid-wavelength IR atmospheric window by changing the size of the resonator of the devices. The measured spectral response of the fabricated device wholly follows the pre-designed resonance, which obviously evidences that the concept of the proposed wavelength-selective IR bolometers is realizable. The results obtained in this work provide a new solution for on-chip MEMS-based wavelength-selective a-Si bolometers for practical applications in IR spectroscopic devices.

Lymph nodes (LNs) are highly confined environments with a cell-dense three-dimensional meshwork, in which lymphocyte migration is regulated by intracellular contractile proteins. However, the molecular cues directing intranodal cell migration remain poorly characterized. Here we demonstrate that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) produced by LN fibroblastic reticular cells (FRCs) acts locally to LPA2 to induce T-cell motility. In vivo, either specific ablation of LPA-producing ectoenzyme autotaxin in FRCs or LPA2 deficiency in T cells markedly decreased intranodal T cell motility, and FRC-derived LPA critically affected the LPA2-dependent T-cell motility. In vitro, LPA activated the small GTPase RhoA in T cells and limited T-cell adhesion to the underlying substrate via LPA2. The LPA-LPA2 axis also enhanced T-cell migration through narrow pores in a three-dimensional environment, in a ROCK-myosin II-dependent manner. These results strongly suggest that FRC-derived LPA serves as a cell-extrinsic factor that optimizes T-cell movement through the densely packed LN reticular network.

The genome-wide expression profiles of Bradyrhizobium japonicum in response to soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) seed extract (SSE) and genistein were monitored with time at a low temperature (15°C). A comparison with the expression profiles of the B. japonicum genome previously captured at the common growth temperature (30°C) revealed that the expression of SSE preferentially induced genomic loci, including a large gene cluster encoding the type III secretion system (T3SS), were considerably delayed at 15°C, whereas most nodulation (nod) gene loci, including nodD1 and nodW, were rapidly and strongly induced by both SSE and genistein. Induction of the T3SS genes was progressively activated upon the elevation of temperature to 30°C and positively responded to culture population density. In addition, genes nolA and nodD2 were dramatically induced by SSE, concomitantly with the expression of T3SS genes. However, the deletion mutation of nodD2 but not nolA led to elimination of the T3SS genes expression. These results indicate that the expression of the T3SS gene cluster is tightly regulated with integration of environmental cues such as temperature and that NodD2 may be involved in its efficient induction in B. japonicum.

Thin films of SrTiO3 (STO) and Rh-doped SrTiO3 (Rh-STO) were synthesized by sol-gel method and loaded with Ag nanoparticles. Pristine STO films exhibited anodic photocurrent while Rh-STO exhibited cathodic photocurrent. An enhancement in the overall cathodic photocurrent is observed with Ag nanoparticle loading and an additional enhancement in the visible light range is seen from the incident photon-to-current efficiency spectrum due to synergetic effect of Rh doping and Ag loading in STO.

BACKGROUND: Neuropathic pain is a highly debilitating chronic pain following damage to peripheral sensory neurons and is often resistant to all treatments currently available, including opioids. We have previously shown that peripheral nerve injury induces activation of cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) in injured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons that contribute to tactile allodynia, a hallmark of neuropathic pain. However, lipid mediators downstream of cPLA(2) activation to produce tactile allodynia remain to be determined. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Here we provide evidence that platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a potential candidate. Pharmacological blockade of PAF receptors (PAFRs) reduced the development and expression of tactile allodynia following nerve injury. The expression of PAFR mRNA was increased in the DRG ipsilateral to nerve injury, which was seen mainly in macrophages. Furthermore, mice lacking PAFRs showed a reduction of nerve injury-induced tactile allodynia and, interestingly, a marked suppression of upregulation of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) expression in the injured DRG, crucial proinflammatory cytokines involved in pain hypersensitivity. Conversely, a single injection of PAF near the DRG of naïve rats caused a decrease in the paw withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimulation in a dose-dependent manner and an increase in the expression of mRNAs for TNFalpha and IL-1beta, both of which were inhibited by pretreatment with a PAFR antagonist. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that the PAF/PAFR system has an important role in production of TNFalpha and IL-1beta in the DRG and tactile allodynia following peripheral nerve injury and suggest that blocking PAFRs may be a viable therapeutic strategy for treating neuropathic pain.

In this paper, we demonstrate a facile far-field approach to quantify the near-field local density of optical states (LDOS) of a nanorod using CdTe quantum dot (QD) emitters tethered to the surface of the nanorods as beacons for optical read-outs. The radiative decay rate was extracted to quantify the LDOS; our analysis indicates that the LDOS of the nanorod enhances both the radiative and nonradiative decay of QDs, particularly the radiative decay of QDs at the end of a nanorod is enhanced by 1.17 times greater than that at the waist, while the nonradiative decay was enhanced uniformly over the nanorod. To the best of our knowledge, our effort constitutes the first to map the LDOS of a nanostructure via the far-field method, to provide clarity on the interaction mechanism between emitters and the nanostructure, and to be potentially employed in the LDOS mapping of high-throughput nanostructures.