Search

The pineal gland has evolved from a photoreceptive organ in fish to a neuroendocrine organ in mammals. This study integrated multiple daytime single‐cell RNA‐seq datasets from the pineal glands of zebrafish, rats, and monkeys, providing a detailed examination of the evolutionary transition at single‐cell resolution. We identified key factors responsible for the anatomical and functional transformation of the pineal gland. We retrieved and integrated daytime single‐cell transcriptomic datasets from the pineal glands of zebrafish, rats, and monkeys, resulting in a total of 22 431 cells after rigorous quality filtering. Comparative analysis was then conducted to elucidate the evolution of pineal cells, their photosensitivity, their role in melatonin production, and the signaling processes within the glands of these species. Our analysis identified distinct cellular compositions of the pineal gland in zebrafish, rats, and monkeys. Zebrafish photoreceptors exhibited comprehensive phototransduction gene expression, while specific genes, including transducin (Gngt1, Gnb3, and Gngt2) and phosducin (Pdc), were consistently present in mammalian pinealocytes. We found transcriptional similarities between the pineal gland and retina, underscoring shared evolutionary and functional pathways. Zebrafish displayed unique light‐responsive circadian gene activity compared to rats and monkeys. Key ligand‐receptor interactions were identified, especially involving MDK and PTN, influencing melatonin synthesis across species. Furthermore, we observed species‐specific GPCR (G protein‐coupled receptors) expressions related to melatonin synthesis and their alignment with retinal expressions. Our findings also highlighted specific transcription factors (TFs) and regulatory networks associated with pineal gland evolution and function. Our study provides a detailed analysis of the pineal gland's evolution from fish to mammals. We identified key transcriptional changes and controls that highlight the gland's functional diversity. Notably, we found significant ligand‐receptor interactions influencing melatonin synthesis and demonstrated parallels between pineal and retinal expressions. These insights enhance our understanding of the pineal gland's role in phototransduction, melatonin production, and circadian rhythms in vertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid crystal (LC) planar optical elements (POEs) based on photoalignment technology have emerged as a promising approach to manipulating light in various ways. Owing to the high diffraction efficiency, polarization sensitive, and simple fabrication process, LC POEs have found enormous applications in display and photonic devices. In this review, we analyze the Pancharatnam-Berry (PB) phase, polarization holography and photoalignment mechanism, and present a variety of applications in display and photonic devices including optically rewritable liquid crystal device, LC grating, LC lens, LC near-eye displays, LC encryption and LC robots. Although photoalignment-based LC POEs have greatly promoted the development of optics in academia and engineering, there are still many issues that need to be resolved, such as small field of view, uneven imaging quality, chromatic aberration, etc. Due to the ultrathin nature of LC POEs, they can be seamlessly integrated into modern displays, wearables, and many other systems. This review finally concludes with a summary and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the applications of LC POEs. It is believed that the developments introduced here can provide directions for future research, and present potential opportunities to encourage future research in the applications of LC POEs. • The working principles of LC, PB phase and photoalignment are introduced. • Applications of LC POEs in display and photonic devices are presented. • This article briefly sorts out and summarizes the latest results of LC POEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) is an effective technique, with unparalleled sensitivity, for the absolute quantification of target nucleic acids. However, current commercial ddPCR devices for detecting the gene chip are time consuming due to complex image stitching. To address this issue, we propose a universal concentration determination system and realize one-time gene chip imaging with high resolution. All the functional units are controlled by self-developed software using the PyQt5 module in Python. Without stitching technology, images of the ddPCR chip (28 mm × 18 mm) containing 20 000 independent 0.81 nL micro chambers can be obtained in less than 15 seconds, which saves about 165 seconds. A white laser light source (2 mW cm−2) was employed as a substitute for the mercury lamp. Its wavelength matches well with typical fluorescent dyes (e.g., HEX, ROX and Cy5), and thus it can strengthen the fluorescence intensity for weak signals. The results also demonstrated that the correlation coefficient for the measured concentration and theoretical value was above 99%, by testing the ddPCR products with COVID-19 virus. Such a system can greatly reduce the time required for image acquisition and DNA concentration determination, and thus is able to speed up the lab-to-application process for ddPCR technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spectra and dielectric properties of polymer-dispersed liquid crystal films doped with different concentrations of ZnO nanorods were studied. The scanning electron microscopy images show that doping ZnO nanorod concentration can increase the size of liquid crystal droplets to microscale. The absorption spectra of the films also show that the edge of the absorption band of the composite system moves towards high energy with the increase of the concentration of ZnO nanorods. On the other hand, the investigation results show that the dielectric constant and loss increase with the increase of doping concentration from 4 Hz-1 MHz. Further analysis of the Cole–Cole diagram fitted by Havriliak-Negami equation shows that there are three relaxation processes. The improvement of dielectric strength and relaxation frequency of nanocomposites was observed at low frequencies of 100 Hz. A threefold reduce in relaxation time for the doped sample (0.5 wt.%) was obtained compared with that of pure sample without doping. In addition, the studies show that the temperature has a great influence on the activation energy of materials, which have a slight increase (~5°C) in transition temperature of liquid crystals. Practically, in ethanol gas sensing experiment, the results show the value of permittivity increases and impedance decreases. Graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we use multicomponent mutual diffusion method to derive a one-dimensional non-local diffusion dynamic model to describe the diffusion kinetics of a dynamic holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal grating (H-PDLC) doped with nano-silver. The physical mechanism of diffusion between monomer and liquid crystal, monomer and nano-silver particles is analysed using this model. Using coupled-wave theory, the H-PDLC's diffraction efficiency curve with the expose time are simulated due to the vivid changing of effective refractive index modulation caused by the movement of concentration of each component with the expose time. Correspondingly, in the experiment, the diffraction efficiency of the grating is measured in real time, which shows the improvement for the holographic properties because of nano-silver doped H-PDLC. The simulation results have a good agreement with experimental data by fitting the corresponding parameters of the model. In addition, through comparing with simulation and experimental results with doping different concentrations of nano-silver particles, the recipe and diffraction characteristics of H-PDLC grating can be improved. Thus, the diffusion Kinetics model can be used to optimise the phase separation of the PDLC grating, and finally to improve the opto-electrical properties of H-PDLC gratings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a method to improve the wavelength-sensitivity of a volume holographic grating by mixing dual-photoinitiation dopants, namely, rose bengal (RB)/N-phenylglycine (NPG) system and methylene blue (MB)/p-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) system, which enable the fabrication of gratings upon both green and red light illumination. The RB/NPG green light photoinitiation system is chosen in combination with the red-active MB/PTSA system because RB and MB absorb light near 567 and 665 nm independently. In this case, the holographic gratings, recorded in polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, can be fabricated simultaneously by two different visible laser lights with an output wavelength of 532 and 632.8 nm. The electro-optical performances of the gratings exposed upon 532 and 632.8 nm have been implemented: the diffraction efficiencies (DE) are 75% and 57% respectively when the exposure time is optimised to 2 min and 17 min; the threshold voltage is approximately 2.9 V/μm. The enhanced wavelength-sensitivity of holographic gratings allows for the storage of three-dimensional (3D) images on the same hologram plate, and these 3D images are easily reconstructed by both red and green light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to meet the requirements of large screen projection displays, we propose an ultra-thin zoom projection lens with a small throw ratio (TR), ultra-short throw distance and large field-of-view (FOV) using a digital micromirror device as a spatial modulator. A refractive-reflective system is developed to correct the distortion and shorten the projection distance. The image size (diagonal, 16:9 aspect ratio) of the projector is 80-120 in. (2.032-3.048 m) with a TR of 0.22, TV distortion < 0.6%, root mean square (RMS) spot size < 1.1 mm, relative illumination > 85% and modulation transfer function > 0.4 at 0.55 lp/mm for all fields and zoom conditions. When the tolerance error is considered, the RMS value is less than 1.3 mm for all fields and zoom conditions. Finally, the projection lens is fabricated and tested according to the designed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to optically image cellular transmembrane voltages at millisecond-timescale resolutions can offer unprecedented insight into the function of living brains in behaving animals. Here, we present a point mutation that increases the sensitivity of Ace2 opsin-based voltage indicators. We use the mutation to develop Voltron2, an improved chemigeneic voltage indicator that has a 65% higher sensitivity to single APs and 3-fold higher sensitivity to subthreshold potentials than Voltron. Voltron2 retained the sub-millisecond kinetics and photostability of its predecessor, although with lower baseline fluorescence. In multiple in vitro and in vivo comparisons with its predecessor across multiple species, we found Voltron2 to be more sensitive to APs and subthreshold fluctuations. Finally, we used Voltron2 to study and evaluate the possible mechanisms of interneuron synchronization in the mouse hippocampus. Overall, we have discovered a generalizable mutation that significantly increases the sensitivity of Ace2 rhodopsin-based sensors, improving their voltage reporting capability. • Voltron2 is an improved version of the chemigenetic voltage indicator Voltron • A point mutation enhances the sensitivity of several rhodopsin-based sensors • Voltron2 was tested in vivo in flies, fish, and mice Abdelfattah et al. describe a point mutation that increases the sensitivity of voltage indicators. A new voltage indicator carrying that mutation (Voltron2) is found to have improved sensitivity over its predecessor. Voltron2 is validated in vivo and used to study the subthreshold activity of interneurons in the living mouse brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose the use of a varied-line-spacing (VLS) holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) Bragg grating as a switchable image splitter to generate a compatible three-dimensional (3D) stereogram and to increase the viewing angle of the observer. To fabricate the VLS grating, a cylindrical lens is adopted to form a cylindrical wave, which interferes with a plane wave, generating an H-PDLC grating with a continuously varying period. The proposed holographic optical element (HOE)-based image splitter comprises two VLS H-PDLC gratings. It can be attached on a designed pattern, with two rectangles taking the place of conventional liquid crystal display panel pixels, and can separate them into right and left viewing fields with a wider range. Experimental results show that the movement of the eyes of the observer can reach 37.6 mm. A theoretical simulation indicates that a shorter focal length of the cylindrical lens can yield a larger movement range. Switching between two-dimensional and 3D modes can be performed by applying an external alternating-current voltage at ~80 V. The contrast ratio of the diffracted images induced by crosstalk is greater than 60%, which indicates the feasibility of the proposed HOE for 3D image splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electrically tunable two-dimensional (2D) holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) grating with variable period was fabricated by inserting a cylindrical lens in a conventional holographic interference beam. The interference between the plane wave and cylindrical wave resulting in varying intersection angles on the sample, combined with dual exposure along directions perpendicular to each other, generates a 2D H-PDLC grating with varied period. We have identified periods varying from 3.109 to 5.158 µm across a 16 mm width, with supporting theoretical equations for the period. The period exhibits a symmetrical square lattice in a diagonal direction, with an asymmetrical rectangular lattice in off-diagonal locations. With the first exposure at 2 s and the second exposure at 60 s, the phase separation between the prepolymer and liquid crystal was most evident. The diffraction properties and optic-electric characteristics were also studied. The diffraction efficiency of first-order light was observed to be 13.5% without external voltage, and the transmission efficiency of non-diffracted light was 78% with an applied voltage of 100 V. The proposed method provides the capability of generating period variation to the conventional holographic interference path, with potential application in diffractive optics such as tunable multi-wavelength organic lasing from a dye-doped 2D H-PDLC grating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the electrically controlled tunable-focus characteristics of a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) lens doped with Ag nanoparticles (NPs). The design and simulation of a circular lens and cylindrical lens show that a good lens effect closely depends on the size of etched circular and rectangular holes. Our results show a good focusing effect for 0.5 and 1 mm diameter circular lenses and 1 × 5 mm and 0.5 × 2.5 mm cylindrical lenses. In addition, the measured focal length of the PDLC lens is consistent with the simulation results. The circular lens and cylindrical lens have good electrically controlled tunable-focus properties when the applied voltage is 100 V rms and 80 V rms , respectively. Moreover, incorporated Ag nanoparticles function to improve transmittance of the PDLC lens. The advantages of controlled flexibility, easy fabrication, and small size of such a PDLC lens have wide applications within imaging and three-dimensional displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parallel detection of fluorescence confocal microscopy (PDFCM) system based on Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) is reported in this paper in order to realize simultaneous multi-channel imaging and improve detection speed. DMD is added into PDFCM system, working to take replace of the single traditional pinhole in the confocal system, which divides the laser source into multiple excitation beams. The PDFCM imaging system based on DMD is experimentally set up. The multi-channel image of fluorescence signal of potato cells sample is detected by parallel lateral scanning in order to verify the feasibility of introducing the DMD into fluorescence confocal microscope. In addition, for the purpose of characterizing the microscope, the depth response curve is also acquired. The experimental result shows that in contrast to conventional microscopy, the DMD-based PDFCM system has higher axial resolution and faster detection speed, which may bring some potential benefits in the biology and medicine analysis. SCANNING 38:234-239, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the urgent needs of current optical system for tunable focus and achromatism, this paper presents a one-dimensional tunable cylindrical liquid crystal lens based on FPGA controlled liquid crystal cell, which can realize tunable focus and achromatic function in time domain. Based on the indium tin oxide (ITO) one-dimensional stripe electrode structure, the lens can realize the self-focusing function through controlling the order and amplitude of external voltage applying on each unit electrode stripe. Experimentally, we designed 128 stripes electrode on the liquid crystal lens within 10 mm × 10 mm. The experimental result shows that the focal length varying range is from 300 mm to infinite in 633 nm. What's more, this liquid crystal lens has the ability to realize the transverse achromatic function to obtain the almost same focal point for both 405 nm and 633 nm incident beam by computer- electrically- controlled method within the time domain. The new type of electrically controlled element has the characteristics of high efficiency and small volume, which will hopefully play an important role in microscopic imaging and color display system in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation and comparison of the characteristics of holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) gratings doped with Ag and Au nanoparticles (NPs) is presented. The experimental results show that the diffraction efficiency and electro-optical properties of holographic gratings are improved through the addition of Ag and Au NPs. It is notable that Ag NP-doped gratings have far superior performance than those containing Au NPs. Furthermore, we find that the diffraction efficiency improvement can be explained as being due to the surface plasmon resonance of the metal NPs embedded in the PDLC. We theoretically simulate the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) wavelengths of the Ag and Au NPs within the PDLC and find that the laser wavelength used to fabricate the holographic gratings is much closer to the SPR wavelength of Ag NPs than that of Au NPs. Atomic force microscopy images show that the phase separation of the Ag-doped grating is improved, and the grating structure is much smoother than those of the undoped samples and the Au NP-doped samples, because of the SPR properties of the Ag NPs in the PDLC microstructure during the holographic recording process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of silver nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in interface of phase separation of holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) gratings using Finite-Difference Time Domain method. We show that silver NPs exhibit double resonance peak at the interface, and these peaks are influenced by the angle of incident light. We observe a blue shift of the wavelength of resonance peak as the incident angle increases. However, the location of silver NPs at the interface has nearly no effect on the wavelength of resonance peak. Also we show near-field and far-field properties surrounding silver NPs and find that field distribution can be controlled through rotation of incident angle. Therefore, LSPR properties of silver NPs within H-PDLC gratings can be excited by appropriate wavelength and angle of the incident light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A four-channel frequency division multiplexed fluorescent microscope (FDMFM) modulated by holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) grating array is presented in this paper. The four-channel H-PDLC grating array is developed and employed to generate frequency modulation. Fluorescent signals at four different locations on a rat neural cell have been successfully modulated with four different frequencies, collected by a single high-sensitivity photodetector, such as photomultiplier tubes, and distinguished by taking the Fourier transform of the detected sum signal. The experimental and simulation results agree well. The new system offers the advantages of (1) multiple channel modulation capability, (2) no mechanical noise and (3) flexible and controllable modulation profile (e.g. square wave, triangular wave, etc.). Thus this four-channel FDMFM system can be very helpful for studying fast-changing transient events in biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photonic crystals (PCs) with infiltrating liquid crystals (LCs) have many potential applications because of their ability to continuously modulate the band-gaps. Using the plane-wave expansion method (PWM), we simulate the band-gap distribution of 2D honeycomb lattice PC with different pillar structures (circle, hexagonal and square pillar) and with different filling ratios, considering both when the LC is used as filling pillar material and semiconductors (, ) are used in the substrate, and when the semiconductors (, ) are pillar material and the LC is the substrate. Results show that unlike LC-based triangle lattice PC, optimized honeycomb lattice PC has the ability to generate absolute photonic band-gaps for fabricating optical switches. We provide optimization parameters for LC infiltrating honeycomb lattice PC structure based on simulation results and analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spinal substantia gelatinosa (SG; lamina II) is a major synaptic zone for unmyelinated (C) primary afferents. Whereas a substantial proportion of intrinsic SG neurones are GABAergic inhibitory, their relationship to afferent activity is unknown. In spinal cord slices from a transgenic mouse in which certain GABAergic lamina II neurones are labelled with green fluorescent protein (GFP), we compared primary afferent input with local efferent connections made by inhibitory SG neurones. Simultaneous whole-cell recordings from characterized neurones establish that inhibitory SG neurones receive monosynaptic input from a subset of unmyelinated primary afferents and connect to other lamina II cells that have input from a different set of afferents, permitting interactions between distinctive afferent messages. Certain lamina II inhibitory cells were found to connect to one another by reciprocal links. Inhibitory lamina II connections appear arranged to modulate activity from different sets of peripheral unmyelinated fibres through neural circuitry that includes disinhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new type grating, tilted holographic planar structured dichromated gelatin (DCG) grating with large refractive index modulation, is presented in this paper. The grating is inscribed by superposing two coherent laser beams from the front and the thin side surfaces, respectively. The relationship between the tilted angle and the three types of coupling modes is analyzed when coupling with fiber. Besides, the couple mode theory and experimental investigation are applied on major characteristics analysis of the radiation mode DCG grating of tilted angle 45°. Due to the tilted planar structured grating has large refractive index modulation, it not only offers convenience for connecting (or integrating) with other fiber or waveguide-based devices, but also provide some special characteristics such as low wavelength selectivity (which is required for some applications such as multiple spectrum biomedical imaging). Therefore, this unique grating device has a wide application in optical fields such as for the waveguide-based, parallel, multiple spectrum imaging system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Most spinal cord injury (SCI) patients suffer from chronic pain. Effective therapy for this pain is lacking, and the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The spinal superficial dorsal horn (SDH) contains neuronal circuits capable of modulating primary afferent information involved in pain processing. KCC2 is an isoform of the K+–Cl− cotransporter that contributes to the regulation of transmembrane anion gradient which plays a key role in shaping GABAA receptor-mediated signalling in the CNS. We tested the hypothesis that SCI causes down-regulation of KCC2 distal to the injury and contributes to the neuronal hyperresponsiveness and pain-related behaviours. SCI was a hemisection at T13 level of adult Sprague–Dawley rats. Spinal sagittal slices with attached dorsal roots (DR) were prepared from L4 to L6 level. The reversal potentials of GABA responses ( EGABA) and DR-evoked IPSPs and EPSPs of L4-6 SDH neurones in sham-operated and SCI rats were compared using gramicidin-perforated patch-clamp recordings. Here we report that thoracic SCI-induced down-regulation of KCC2 in the lumbar SDH parallels the development of allodynia. The subsequent changes of EGABA in SDH neurones attenuate the GABAA receptor-mediated inhibitory synaptic transmission. These changes cause certain normally subthreshold primary A and C fibre inputs to evoke action potential output in SDH neurones. We conclude that SCI induces KCC2 down-regulation and subsequent changes of EGABA in the SDH below the injury site. The resulting disinhibition unmasks normally ineffective SDH neuronal circuits and may contribute to the below-level central pain-related behaviours after incomplete SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influence of CuO nanorods on the dielectric properties of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) is studied in the 4 Hz–8 MHz frequency range. PDLC films doped with different concentrations of CuO nanorods were prepared by photopolymerization-induced phase separation. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images reveal that, the size of liquid crystal (LC) droplets in a polymer matrix is at the nanometer level. Besides, with the increasing of the concentration of CuO nanorods, the size of droplet can approach about 1 μm. The result indicates the doping of the CuO nanorods slows the polymerization rate of the PDLC and the size of the LC droplets becomes larger. Further analysis of the Cole-Cole plot fitted by the Havriliak-Negami (HN) equation shows that there are two relaxation processes in the low frequency and high frequency region of the PDLC doped with nanorods. With the nanorods concentration of 0.1 wt%, the electric conductivity of PDLC is increased >20 times and there is a saturation effect. Unlabelled Image • PDLC films doped with CuO nanorods were prepared by PIPS. • The surface morphology of PDLC doped with CuO nanorods was studied. • Dielectric relaxation spectroscopic studies of PDLC films doped with CuO nanorods. • Doping CuO nanorods into PDLC, the conductivity is increased by >20 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiological modulation of melanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R) signaling by MRAP2 proteins plays an indispensable role in appetite control and energy homeostasis in the central nervous system. Great interspecies differences of the interaction and regulation of melanocortin receptors by MRAP protein family have been reported in several diploid vertebrates but never been investigated in the tetrapod amphibian Xenopus laevis. Here, we performed phylogenetic and synteny‐based analyses to explore the evolutionary aspects of dual copies of X. laevis MC4R (xlMC4R) and MRAP2 (xlMRAP2) proteins. Our data showed that xlMRAPs directly interacted with xlMC4Rs on the cell surface as a functional antiparallel dimeric topology and pharmacological studies suggested a homology specific regulatory pattern of the melanocortin system in X. laevis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The melanocortin receptor accessory proteins (MRAP1 and MRAP2) are well‐known endocrine regulators for the trafficking and signalling of all five melanocortin receptors (MC1R–MC5R). The observation of MRAP2 on regulating several non‐melanocortin G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) has been sporadically reported, whereas other endogenous GPCR partners of the MRAP protein family are largely unknown. Methods: Here, we performed single‐cell transcriptome analysis and drew a fine GPCR blueprint and MRAPs‐associated network of two major endocrine organs, the hypothalamus and adrenal gland at single‐cell resolution. We also integrated multiple bulk RNA‐seq profiles and single‐cell datasets of human and mouse tissues, and narrowed down a list of 48 GPCRs with strong endogenous co‐expression correlation with MRAPs. Results: 36 and 46 metabolic‐related GPCRs were consequently identified as novel interacting partners of MRAP1 or MRAP2, respectively. MRAPs exhibited protein–protein interactions and varying pharmacological properties on the surface translocation, constitutive activities and ligand‐stimulated downstream signalling of these GPCRs. Knockdown of MRAP2 expression by hypothalamic administration of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) packed shRNA stimulated body weight gain in mouse model. Co‐injection of corticotropinreleasing factor (CRF), the agonist of corticotropin releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRHR1), suppressed feeding behaviour in a MRAP2‐dependent manner. Conclusions: Collectively, our study has comprehensively elucidated the complex GPCR networks in two major endocrine organs and redefined the MRAP protein family as broad‐spectrum GPCR modulators. MRAP proteins not only serve as a vital endocrine pivot on the regulation of global GPCR activities in vivo that could explain the composite physiological phenotypes of the MRAP2 null murine model but also provide us with new insights of the phenotyping investigation of GPCR–MRAP functional complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper proposes a holographic curved waveguide system for near-eye display. • An iterative algorithm is established based on angular spectrum theory to simulate the whole propagation process and analyze the behavior of light beam in the curved waveguide. • A phase compensation measures for overmodulation during beam propagation in the waveguide have been proposed. • Experiments have proven that the overmodulation can be diluted with the appropriate compensation phase over an effective distance. Generally, current type of waveguide used for near-eye displays is planar waveguide, which belongs to flat panel display. Compared to display system in three-dimensional space, flat panel display limits people's view of the 3-D world and is not conducive to the integration of virtual and reality. This paper proposes a holographic curved waveguide system for near-eye display. In order to analyze the propagation process of light beam in waveguide, an iterative algorithm is established based on angular spectrum theory to get the intensity distribution from each total internal reflection point. According to the simulation results and experimental phenomenon, we have developed phase compensation measures for overmodulation during beam propagation in the waveguide. The research shows that using curved waveguide can achieve beam transmission with less aberration after introducing an appropriate phase compensation in a distance, and it can also achieve beam transmission with lossless energy within a large radius range. Experiments have proven that the final coupling effect is basically consistent with the simulation results, this means that our proposal about curved waveguide has potential application value in near-eye display systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through the preparation of free radicals and nanocomposite materials technology, this article introduces the Cerium oxide (CeO 2) nanorods doped trimethylpropane triacrylate and epoxy resin to solve the poor performance of holographic photopolymer. Dielectric analysis and spectrum data show that the incorporation of CeO 2 nanorod can serve as an inhibitor to interfacial interaction with Irgacure 784, and it prolong polymerization time, inhibit the molecular weight of the polymer, and promote monomer conversion and diffusion. Further experiments of aging show that the optimized photopolymer material has anti-aging (∼2.8% decreased) properties. The mechanism of initiator photodegradation and polymer chain formation under different concentrations of CeO 2 are elucidated, which can affect the diffusion and chain formation of photopolymerization. CeO 2 nanorods can effectively improve monomer double bond conversion of photosensitive polymers and the diffusion of epoxy resin, which improve the diffraction efficiency (30% increased), the refractive index modulation and the polarization holography, achieve high sensitivity and low volume shrinkage (∼0.186%). By combining the types of initiators and the role of electron donor, CeO 2 nanorod can manipulate the decomposition of initiators and polymerization process, thereby affecting the generated optical modulation characteristics and the manufacturing of optical information storage devices. • The addition of CeO 2 nanorod can improve the holographic properties and monomer conversion of photopolymers. • Dielectric, FTIR and GPC analysis show that the effect of CeO 2 nanorods delay curing of the cross-linked network. • CeO 2 nanorods can serve as inhibitors to improve the index modulation and polarization properties. • The optimized photopolymer nanocomposite has anti-aging, high temperature resistance properties, and low volume shrinkage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a model developed for establishing the lowest possible driving voltage of Holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) based on the Maxwell–Wagner effect doped with specific nanotubes. The dependences of the turning point frequency on the doping concentration and the distribution of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are discussed. The MWCNTs can effectively adjust the relaxation frequency of grating, increase its LC droplet size, and decrease its dielectric permittivity. The diffraction efficiency and threshold voltage of the prepared switchable Bragg grating were found to reach 91% and 0.77 V μm−1, respectively, at 5 kHz. By comparing the results of experiments and simulations, we obtained the mass distribution ratio of MWCNTs in the LC and polymer regions. It was found that the MWCNTs diffuse into the LC regions during the polymerization process, and the use of a suitable driving frequency and doping concentration can minimize the driving voltage. This work provides a reference for studying the dynamic range optical tuning and polymerization kinetics of nanoparticles in switchable gratings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A complex gradient passivation strategy was first proposed for inverted PSCs. • In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 effectively passivates defect states in bulk perovskite layer. • In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 facilitates hole extraction by modulating interface energy level alignment. • The efficiency and stability of inverted PSCs are significantly improved. To address the interfacial and bulk defects and mismatched energy band alignment at perovskite/hole transport layr (HTL) interface in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs), here a novel In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 complex diffusion doping strategy was proposed to construct CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 :In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 composite layer for poly[bis(4-phenyl)(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)amine (PTAA)-based inverted PSCs. The In(tu) 3 Cl 3 effectively promotes the quality of perovskite films with larger perovskite crystal grains and flatter and denser surfaces. Both theoretical and experimental results reveal that the In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 can not only passivate interfacial and bulk defects in perovskite layer, but also form a spatial separation of photogenerated charges through CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 :In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 heterojunction interface, which effectively decreases the charge recombination and enhances charge separation and transport property in PSCs. Moreover, the In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 optimizes energy band alignment at perovskite/PTAA interface and creates a polarization electric field at the PTAA/In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 interface directing toward PTAA layer, which promotes the hole transfer from the CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 to the PTAA and increases the open-circuit voltage (V oc). As a consequence, optimized inverted PSCs with CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 :In(SCN 2 H 4) 3 Cl 3 layer achieve high efficiency of 21.25 % and also show a significantly improved long-term stability under different aging test conditions. Our work provides a valuable guide for designing efficient and stable inverted PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Developed photopolymers by introducing high-refractive-index epoxy resin and dyes. • Recorded transmission grating with more than 90 % DE and high transparency at 532 nm wavelength. • The dual-photoinitiator can synergistically improve the grating photosensitivity and have a low shrinkage rate. • Recorded grating displayed the resistance to degradation on aging and better storage stability. • Angle multiplexing and polarization holography prove the photopolymers have the ability of high-density data recording. The use of a composite photopolymer system together with a photoinitiator have a significant effect on the optical properties of a volume phase holographic grating. This paper reports on the performance of a low refractive index monomer combined with a high refractive index epoxy resin. Performance improvements include the compatibility between the cross-linked network structure of the matrix and the recording medium. The effects of the exposure conditions and the internal composition of the materials on holographic performance were investigated. The results showed that the optimal refractive index modulation depends on the ratio of the epoxy resin and the pre-polymerization temperature. The use of Irgacure 784 as a photoinitiator gave better performance than Rose Bengal (RB) in terms of diffraction efficiency (∼92.5 %), transmittance (∼98 %) and slight shrinkage (0.314 %) was observed. The use of a dual-photoinitiator gave improvements in the radical generation rate and the stability, permitted recordings at an exposure energy of 50 mJ/cm2 and afforded high sensitivity (3.9 × 10-2 cm2/J) as a result of the synergy between the two photoinitiators. In other words, due to the highly reactive Irgacure 784 and the inhibiting polymerization characteristics of RB, enhancement of holographic performance and good stability were realized. It was shown in the photocuring and aging experiments that the photopolymer possessed anti-aging properties. The photopolymer can record multiplexed images at 532 nm and polarization holograms, demonstrating that it has the capability to perform high-density data recording. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Vectorial properties of light have significant effects on the focusing properties, especially for the case of tightly focusing, where the requirements on the ratio of the longitudinal field to the traverse fields (RLT) are different for various applications, such as particle acceleration, micronano-fabrication, fluorescent imaging, determination of three dimensional orientation of individual molecules and so on. Here, utilizing inhomogeneous polarization modulation (IPM) method, we demonstrate how to adjust the numbers of focal spots, the RLT, and the depth of focus (DOF) in terms of requirements and create successfully single or multiple focal spots with dominant transverse or longitudinal fields and small size. In terms of this method, not only the asymmetry of the focal spot for linearly polarized illumination with IPM can be obviously decreased, but also its size is the same as that of the short axis of the elliptical focusing spot for the case without IPM. Moreover, it can not only produce the focal spot with dominant transverse field, low sidelobe, and size slightly smaller than that of the radial polarization, but also can realize the identical resolutions in the transverse direction. In addition, for a focal spot with dominant transverse or longitudinal field, both the subdiffraction sizes (0.4λ or 0.5λ) and the DOF of 6.92λ are also achieved. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a classic molecular marker of peptidergic primary somatosensory neurons. Despite years of research, it is unknown whether these neurons are required to sense pain or other sensory stimuli. Here, we found that genetic ablation of CGRPα-expressing sensory neurons reduced sensitivity to noxious heat, capsaicin, and itch (histamine and chloroquine) and impaired thermoregulation but did not impair mechanosensation or β-alanine itch—stimuli associated with nonpeptidergic sensory neurons. Unexpectedly, ablation enhanced behavioral responses to cold stimuli and cold mimetics without altering peripheral nerve responses to cooling. Mechanistically, ablation reduced tonic and evoked activity in postsynaptic spinal neurons associated with TRPV1/heat, while profoundly increasing tonic and evoked activity in spinal neurons associated with TRPM8/cold. Our data reveal that CGRPα sensory neurons encode heat and itch and tonically cross-inhibit cold-responsive spinal neurons. Disruption of this crosstalk unmasks cold hypersensitivity, with mechanistic implications for neuropathic pain and temperature perception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The dynamic gain equalizer consisting of gratings made of holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal is explored and the structure and principle presented. The properties of the holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal grating are analyzed in light of the rigorous coupled-wave theory. Experimental study is also conducted in which a beam of infrared laser was incident to the grating sample and an alternating current electric field applied. The electro-optical properties of the grating and the influence of the applied field were observed. The results of the experiment agree with that of the theory quite well. The design method of the dynamic gain equalizer with the help of numerical simulation is presented too. The study shows that holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal gratings have great potential to play a role in fiber optics communication. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, a method has been proposed for high efficiency unidirectional optical transmission diode at 1550 nm. We use a new composite structure, holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) grating-photonic crystal (PC), to realize it. There exists the directional band gap for the PC structure in 1550 nm. Therefore, it is possible to use the H-PDLC Bragg grating to shift the incident angle to a particular value to satisfy the condition so that the PC energy band can be moved from the pseudo-band gap to the passband to achieve the purpose of unidirectional transmission optical diode with high-efficiency. So that when the 1550 nm beam diffracted from the H-PDLC grating to incident the PC structure, it will transmit the composite structure almost totally, but it will be completely none reflected from PC surface. The simulation results show that the forward transmittance is 94.1% and the backward transmittance is near 0. At the same time, H-PDLC grating provide a method to adjust the transmittance of the composite structure diode with its electrically-controlled characteristics. This composite structure design provides another efficient method for the realization of all-optical diodes in the field of optical communication. • This paper proposes a H-PDLC Bragg grating-photonic crystal composite structure. • This structure achieves one-way transmission within a certain band range at 1550 nm. • This structure is simple and has high transmittance while high contrast. • H-PDLC grating can adjust the transmittance of this composite structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time- and vehicle-related variability of bladder and urethral rhabdosphincter (URS) activity as well as cardiorespiratory and blood chemistry values were examined in the acetic acid-induced bladder irritation model in α-chloralose-anesthetized female cats. Additionally, bladder and urethra were evaluated histologically using Mason trichrome and toluidine blue staining. Urodynamic, cardiovascular and respiratory parameters were collected during intravesical saline infusion followed by acetic acid (0.5%) to irritate the bladder. One hour after starting acetic acid infusion, a protocol consisting of a cystometrogram, continuous infusion-induced rhythmic voiding contractions, and a 5 min “quiet period” (bladder emptied without infusion) was precisely repeated every 30 minutes. Administration of vehicle (saline i.v.) occurred 15 minutes after starting each of the first 7 cystometrograms and duloxetine (1mg/kg i.v.) after the 8th. Acetic acid infusion into the bladder increased URS-EMG activity, bladder contraction frequency, and decreased contraction amplitude and capacity, compared to saline. Bladder activity and URS activity stabilized within 1 and 2 hours, respectively. Duloxetine administration significantly decreased bladder contraction frequency and increased URS-EMG activity to levels similar to previous reports. Cardiorespiratory parameters and blood gas levels remained consistent throughout the experiment. The epithelium of the bladder and urethra were greatly damaged and edema and infiltration of neutrophils in the lamina propria of urethra were observed. These data provide an ample evaluation of the health of the animals, stability of voiding function and appropriateness of the model for testing drugs designed to evaluate lower urinary tract as well as cardiovascular and respiratory systems function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]