Mitochondrial connexin43 and mitochondrial K channels modulate triggered arrhythmias in mouse ventricular muscle.

Connexin43 (Cx43) exits as hemichannels in the inner mitochondrial membrane. We examined how mitochondrial Cx43 and mitochondrial K channels affect the occurrence of triggered arrhythmias. To generate cardiac-specific Cx43-deficient (cCx43) mice, Cx43 mice were crossed with α-MHC (Myh6)-cre mice.

Improving the strength and toughness of macroscale double networks by exploiting Poisson's ratio mismatch.

We propose a new concept that utilizes the difference in Poisson's ratio between component materials as a strengthening mechanism that increases the effectiveness of the sacrificial bond toughening mechanism in macroscale double-network (Macro-DN) materials. These Macro-DN composites consist of a macroscopic skeleton imbedded within a soft elastic matrix. We varied the Poisson's ratio of the reinforcing skeleton by introducing auxetic or honeycomb functional structures that results in Poisson's ratio mismatch between the skeleton and matrix.

Macroscale Double Networks: Design Criteria for Optimizing Strength and Toughness.

The double network concept, based on the fracture of sacrificial bonds, has been revolutionary toward the creation of robust soft materials. Based on the essence of double network hydrogels, macroscale, three-dimensional printed rigid sacrificial networks are embedded within silicone rubber stretchable matrices. Preferential fracture of the sacrificial network results in a ∼60 time increase in stiffness and a ∼50% increase in the work of extension compared with the neat matrix.

Empirical refinements applicable to the recording of fish sounds in small tanks.

Many underwater bioacoustical recording experiments (e.g., fish sound production during courtship or agonistic encounters) are usually conducted in a controlled laboratory environment of small-sized tanks.