bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential and status of damage controlled forming processes
Authors: Hirt Gerhard , Tekkaya A. Erman , Clausmeyer Till , Lohmar Johannes
Published: January 2020

In modern process design of metallic components, the influence of the metal forming process on the component properties can be taken into account. However, damage occurring concurrent to forming cannot be accounted for yet. Due to the complex multi-scale, multi-mechanism nature of damage, it is very challenging to predict its evolution through any metal forming process chain. In order to enable such damage controlled forming processes in the future three research questions need to be addressed in detail: How are the mechanisms governing the damage initiation and evolution in metals best characterized? How can the damage mechanisms be described and the damage evolution be predicted using models? How do forming processes influence the damage evolution? Answering these questions and considering damage during process design will in the long term lead to improved lightweight components that do not require conventional safety factors, as their performance is already fully known.
From petrographic analysis to stereomicroscopic characterisation: a geoarchaeological approach to identify quartzite artefacts in the Cantabrian Region
Authors: Prieto Alejandro , Yusta Iñaki , Arrizabalaga Alvaro
Published: January 2020

Several isolated studies have tried to understand quartzite from an archaeological perspective by applying two different methodological approaches. The first one is based on non-destructive characterisation, aiming to understand human procurement and management of quartzite, without solid geoarchaeological criteria. The second characterised the material from archaeological sites using only petrographic or geochemical perspectives of a limited sample. Currently, both perspectives are unconnected, creating a methodological gap that needs to be solved to study the procurement and management of quartzite in greater depth. The present study, mainly methodological, will explore the gap between petrographic analysis and non-destructive characterisation. Doing so, we could fill this vacuum of information and generate a solid geoarchaeological basis to characterise not only a sample but complete assemblages. To this end, we analyse the lithic assemblages at El Arteu and El Habario, two Middle-Palaeolithic sites in the Cantabrian Region, northern Spain. We summarise the main results derived from petrographic analysis, but especially we will focus on non-destructive criteria to characterise the lithic surfaces of archaeological quartzite using stereoscope microscopy. This process allows us to understand the complete assemblage but also, through technological characterisation, understand the management of different quartzite petrogenetic types in both sites.
A critical review of development and demulsification mechanisms of crude oil emulsion in the petroleum industry
Authors: Raya Sofiah Atirah , Mohd Saaid Ismail , Abbas Ahmed Abdelazim , Abubakar Umar Abubakar
Published: January 2020

The need for efficient demulsification process to treat emulsions in the petroleum industry is well acknowledged. For decades, numerous researches have been conducted to examine mechanisms of emulsification and demulsification. Untreated emulsion has both technical and commercial implications in the industry, especially in terms of treatment facilities, refining and transportation. Effective treatment is needed to ensure optimum production of hydrocarbons. The present paper is to review reported works on the formation of petroleum emulsions, demulsification treatments, characteristics of fit-for-purpose demulsifiers as well as research trends in emulsion treatment. Crude oils are naturally combined with natural surfactants having high tendency to form stable emulsion. The stable emulsion must be treated well to meet industrial requirements since crudes with a high volume of stable emulsion have a less value. Therefore, fundamental studies on natural surfactants, which contribute to the emulsion stability, are analyzed for the effective separation of emulsions into oil and water. This would involve the assessment of various reported mechanisms for the emulsification and right formulation for effective demulsification.
Insights into Theranostic Properties of Titanium Dioxide for Nanomedicine
Authors: Hasanzadeh Kafshgari Morteza , Goldmann Wolfgang H.
Published: January 2020

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanostructures exhibit a broad range of theranostic properties that make them attractive for biomedical applications. TiO2 nanostructures promise to improve current theranostic strategies by leveraging the enhanced quantum confinement, thermal conversion, specific surface area, and surface activity. This review highlights certain important aspects of fabrication strategies, which are employed to generate multifunctional TiO2 nanostructures, while outlining post-fabrication techniques with an emphasis on their suitability for nanomedicine. The biodistribution, toxicity, biocompatibility, cellular adhesion, and endocytosis of these nanostructures, when exposed to biological microenvironments, are examined in regard to their geometry, size, and surface chemistry. The final section focuses on recent biomedical applications of TiO2 nanostructures, specifically evaluating therapeutic delivery, photodynamic and sonodynamic therapy, bioimaging, biosensing, tissue regeneration, as well as chronic wound healing.
Pseudo-elastic cavitation model: part I—finite element analyses on thin silicone adhesives in façades
Authors: Drass M. , Bois P. A. Du , Schneider J. , Kolling S.
Published: January 2020

This study investigates the structural behavior of adhesive bonds of glass and metal using thin, structural silicones in heavily constrained applications. This special type of connection may lead to triaxial stress conditions under axial loading, which can lead to dilatation failure due to the abrupt growth of cavities (cavitation effect). Cavitation failure leads to significant stress softening and loss of stiffness; however, it increases connection’s ductility. These material deformations should be considered when designing glass-metal connections. Therefore, a constitutive model is developed to account for cavitation in hyperelastic materials. The volumetric component of the model is equipped with a non-linear Helmholtz free energy function that accounts for isotropic void growth under hydrostatic loading. An energy coupling term is then added that numerically explicates strain energy under isochoric deformation, while also guaranteeing physical material behavior. The energy contribution is calculated internally by analysing the geometric evolution of inherent voids. The extended volumetric–isochoric split enables one to numerically calculate heavily constrained silicone joints under arbitrary deformation modes. Three-dimensional finite element calculations on uniaxial tension, bulge, and pancake tests validate the constitutive model. All experiments could be validated with one set of material parameters through numerical simulations. The numerical calculations were robust and efficient without any underlying mesh dependencies.
Evolution of auroral substorm as viewed from MHD simulations: dynamics, energy transfer and energy conversion
Authors: Ebihara Yusuke , Tanaka Takashi
Published: January 2020

An auroral substorm is a visual manifestation of large-scale, transient disturbances taking place in space surrounding the Earth, and is one of the central issues in the space plasma physics. While a number of studies have been conducted, a unified picture of the overall evolution of the auroral substorm has not been drawn. This paper is aimed to overview the recently obtained results of global magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) simulations in a context of a priori presence of anomalous resistivity leading to magnetic reconnection, and to illuminate what the global MHD simulation can sufficiently reproduce the auroral transients during the auroral substorm. Some auroral transients are found to be seamlessly reproduced by the MHD simulation, including complicated auroral structures moving equatorward during the growth phase, auroral brightening starting to appear near the equatorward border of the preexisting auroral arc, and an auroral surge traveling westward. Possible energy transfer and conversion from the solar wind to the Earth are also overviewed on the basis of the MHD simulation. At least, 4 dynamo regions appear sequentially in the course of the development of the auroral substorm. Although the MHD simulation reproduces some transients, further studies are needed to investigate the role of kinetic processes.
Postcoital Symptoms in a Convenience Sample of Men and Women
Authors: Burri Andrea , Hilpert Peter
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Postcoital dysphoria (PCD) is a condition characterized by inexplicable feelings of tearfulness, sadness, and/or irritability. Previous research has mostly focused on these 3 symptoms, failing to explore other symptoms that can occur after sexual activity.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to get a more in-depth understanding of postcoital symptom variety, to compare the type and frequency of these symptoms in men and women, and to explore the context in which they manifest.

Methods

A convenience sample of 223 women and 76 men filled in an online survey consisting of a list of 21 symptoms and a set of additional questions.

Main Outcome Measure

The study outcomes were obtained using a study-specific questionnaire to assess postcoital symptoms, consisting of a list of 21 symptoms that form 4 domains and 2 additional questions that assess personal and interpersonal distress.

Results

Of all participants, 91.9% reported any postcoital symptom over the past 4 weeks and 94.3% ever since they had been sexually active. The most common symptoms in women were mood swings and sadness, whereas in men, it was unhappiness and low energy. Men and women differed in the frequency of postcoital symptoms experienced ever since being sexually active, with women reporting more sadness, mood swings, frustration, and worthlessness. For 73.5% of individuals, the postcoital symptoms were present after consensual sexual intercourse, for 41.9%, after general sexual activity, and for 46.6% also, after masturbation. Of all participants, 33.9% said that they only experienced the symptoms after orgasm.

Clinical Implications

Postcoital symptoms are clearly more varied than previously suggested and are not related to classic “dysphoria” only. Hence, we propose to cease calling the phenomenon “postcoital dysphoria” and suggest to simply use the term “postcoital symptoms.”

Strength & Limitations

This is the first study ever to provide a more in-depth exploration of postcoital symptom variety. The sample was relatively small, and the representativeness and, therefore, generalizability of the results was limited, given that a convenience sample was used.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that postcoital symptoms are a multifaceted phenomenon which shows similar expression in men and women. The symptoms are clearly more varied not related to classic “dysphoria” only.
In Defence of Direct Obligations for Businesses Under International Human Rights Law
Authors: LÓPEZ LATORRE Andrés Felipe
Published: January 2020

This article presents three arguments on why businesses have direct obligations under existing international law. Nevertheless, in the present state of international law, the obligations of businesses are limited and wholly dependent on the state’s further action of implementation and enforcement. To reach this conclusion, the article asserts that businesses have partial legal personality in international law; that legal obligations and the enforcement model must be distinguished as two separate issues; and that human rights are requirements of justice that emanate from the dignity of each human person to any social actor, including businesses and other non-state actors. The article attempts to contribute to the debate about a binding instrument on business and human rights and presents an alternative understanding of international law that can assist domestic tribunals in applying international human rights standards to businesses as they carry out activities in their jurisdictions.
Super-Resolution Imaging Using a Novel High-Fidelity Antibody Reveals Close Association of the Neuronal Sodium Channel NaV1.6 with Ryanodine Receptors in Cardiac Muscle
Authors: Struckman Heather L. , Baine Stephen , Thomas Justin , Mezache Louisa , Mykytyn Kirk , Györke Sándor , Radwański Przemysław B. , Veeraraghavan Rengasayee
Published: January 2020

The voltage-gated sodium channel [pore-forming subunit of the neuronal voltage-gated sodium channel (NaV1.6)] has recently been found in cardiac myocytes. Emerging studies indicate a role for NaV1.6 in ionic homeostasis as well as arrhythmogenesis. Little is known about the spatial organization of these channels in cardiac muscle, mainly due to the lack of high-fidelity antibodies. Therefore, we developed and rigorously validated a novel rabbit polyclonal NaV1.6 antibody and undertook super-resolution microscopy studies of NaV1.6 localization in cardiac muscle. We developed and validated a novel rabbit polyclonal antibody against a C-terminal epitope on the neuronal sodium channel 1.6 (NaV1.6). Raw sera showed high affinity in immuno-fluorescence studies, which was improved with affinity purification. The antibody was rigorously validated for specificity via multiple approaches. Lastly, we used this antibody in proximity ligation assay (PLA) and super-resolution STochastic Optical Reconstruction Microscopy (STORM) studies, which revealed enrichment of NaV1.6 in close proximity to ryanodine receptor (RyR2), a key calcium (Ca2+) cycling protein, in cardiac myocytes. In summary, our novel NaV1.6 antibody demonstrates high degrees of specificity and fidelity in multiple preparations. It enabled multimodal microscopic studies and revealed that over half of the NaV1.6 channels in cardiac myocytes are located within 100 nm of ryanodine receptor Ca2+ release channels.
How Interior Immigration Enforcement Affects Trust in Law Enforcement
Authors: Wong Tom K. , Kang S. Deborah , Valdivia Carolina , Espino Josefina , Gonzalez Michelle , Peralta Elia
Published: January 2020

The day-to-day behaviors of undocumented immigrants are significantly affected when local law enforcement officials do the work of federal immigration enforcement. One such behavior, which has been widely discussed in debates over so-called sanctuary policies, is that undocumented immigrants are less likely to report crimes to the police when local law enforcement officials work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on federal immigration enforcement. However, the mechanism that explains this relationship of decreased trust in law enforcement has not yet been systematically tested. Do undocumented immigrants become less trusting of police officers and sheriffs when local law enforcement officials work with ICE on federal immigration enforcement? To answer this, we embedded an experiment that varied the interior immigration enforcement context in a survey (n = 512) drawn from a probability-based sample of undocumented immigrants. When local law enforcement officials work with ICE on federal immigration enforcement, respondents are statistically significantly less likely to say that they trust that police officers and sheriffs will keep them, their families, and their communities safe; will protect the confidentiality of witnesses to crimes even if they are undocumented; will protect the rights of all people equally, including undocumented immigrants; and will protect undocumented immigrants from abuse or discrimination.
On the Role of Turbulent Mixing Produced by Vertical Shear Between the Brazil Current and the Intermediate Western Boundary Current
Authors: Lazaneo Cauê Z. , Napolitano Dante C. , da Silveira Ilson C. A. , Tandon Amit , MacDonald Daniel G. , Ávila Rafael A. , Calil Paulo H. R.
Published: January 2020

An intensification of the vertical shear is observed below the surface mixed layer at 21°S due to the mutually opposing flows of the Brazil Current and the Intermediate Western Boundary Current. The propensity to develop turbulence and mixing due to vertical shear over intense stabilizing density gradients is an important characteristic of such environments. For the first time, microscale measurements were made in the Brazil Current‐Intermediate Western Boundary Current system, providing direct quantitative values of the turbulent fluctuations. Peaks of relative strong dissipation rates of turbulent kinetic energy (O(10
) W/kg) were observed close to the base of the surface mixed layer. On the other hand, prominent peaks of turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates of up to 2 orders of magnitude higher than the background were observed at deeper levels, where stratification begins to lose intensity. Analyzing such peaks, caused by intense vertical shear or weak stratification—and sometimes both—, allows a characterization of the local mixing processes and the role played by vertical exchanges of biogeochemical properties. Based on the estimated nitrate gradient and the vertical diffusivity, we show that turbulent mixing driven by vertical shear plays an important role in the supply of nitrate to the upper layer.
Climate Sensitivity of GFDL's CM4.0
Authors: Winton M. , Adcroft A. , Dunne J. P. , Held I. M. , Shevliakova E. , Zhao M. , Guo H. , Hurlin W. , Krasting J. , Knutson T. , Paynter D. , Silvers L. G. , Zhang R.
Published: January 2020

GFDL's new CM4.0 climate model has high transient and equilibrium climate sensitivities near the middle of the upper half of CMIP5 models. The CMIP5 models have been criticized for excessive sensitivity based on observations of present‐day warming and heat uptake and estimates of radiative forcing. An ensemble of historical simulations with CM4.0 produces warming and heat uptake that are consistent with these observations under forcing that is at the middle of the assessed distribution. Energy budget‐based methods for estimating sensitivities based on these quantities underestimate CM4.0's sensitivities when applied to its historical simulations. However, we argue using a simple attribution procedure that CM4.0's warming evolution indicates excessive transient sensitivity to greenhouse gases. This excessive sensitivity is offset prior to recent decades by excessive response to aerosol and land use changes.
Anti-VEGF therapy resistance in ovarian cancer is caused by GM-CSF-induced myeloid-derived suppressor cell recruitment
Authors: Horikawa Naoki , Abiko Kaoru , Matsumura Noriomi , Baba Tsukasa , Hamanishi Junzo , Yamaguchi Ken , Murakami Ryusuke , Taki Mana , Ukita Masayo , Hosoe Yuko , Koshiyama Masafumi , Konishi Ikuo , Mandai Masaki
Published: January 2020

Background

The mechanism of resistance development to anti-VEGF therapy in ovarian cancer is unclear. We focused on the changes in tumour immunity post anti-VEGF therapy.

Methods

The frequencies of immune cell populations and hypoxic conditions in the resistant murine tumours and clinical samples were examined. The expression profiles of both the proteins and genes in the resistant tumours were analysed. The impact of granulocyte–monocyte colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) expression on myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) function in the resistant tumours was evaluated.

Results

We found a marked increase and reduction in the number of Gr-1 + MDSCs and CD8 + lymphocytes in the resistant tumour, and the MDSCs preferentially infiltrated the hypoxic region. Protein array analysis showed upregulation of GM-CSF post anti-VEGF therapy. GM-CSF promoted migration and differentiation of MDSCs, which inhibited the CD8 + lymphocyte proliferation. Anti-GM-CSF therapy improved the anti-VEGF therapy efficacy, which reduced the infiltrating MDSCs and increased CD8 + lymphocytes. In immunohistochemical analysis of clinical samples, GM-CSF expression and MDSC infiltration was enhanced in the bevacizumab-resistant case.

Conclusions

The anti-VEGF therapy induces tumour hypoxia and GM-CSF expression, which recruits MDSCs and inhibits tumour immunity. Targeting the GM-CSF could help overcome the anti-VEGF therapy resistance in ovarian cancers.
Analysis of the genetic variants associated with circulating levels of sgp130. Results from the IMPROVE study
Authors:   on behalf of the IMPROVE study group, Bonomi Alice , Veglia Fabrizio , Baldassarre Damiano , Strawbridge Rona J. , Golabkesh Zahra , Sennblad Bengt , Leander Karin , Smit Andries J. , Giral Philippe , Humphries Steve E. , Tremoli Elena , Hamsten Anders , de Faire Ulf , Gigante Bruna
Published: January 2020

The genes regulating circulating levels of soluble gp130 (sgp130), the antagonist of the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis driven by interleukin 6, are largely unknown. Aims of the present study were to identify genetic loci associated with circulating sgp130 and to explore the potential association between variants associated with sgp130 and markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. The study is based on IMPROVE (n = 3703), a cardiovascular multicentre study designed to investigate the determinants of carotid intima media thickness, a measure of subclinical atherosclerosis. Genomic DNA was genotyped by the CardioMetaboChip and ImmunoChip. About 360,842 SNPs were tested for association with log-transformed sgp130, using linear regression adjusted for age, gender, and population stratification using PLINK v1.07. A p value of 1 × 10−5 was chosen as threshold for significance value. In an exploratory analysis, SNPs associated with sgp130 were tested for association with c-IMT measures. We identified two SNPs significantly associated with sgp130 levels and 24 showing suggestive association with sgp130 levels. One SNP (rs17688225) on chromosome 14 was positively associated with sgp130 serum levels (β = 0.03 SE = 0.007, p = 4.77 × 10−5) and inversely associated with c-IMT (c-IMTmean–maxβ = −0.001 SE = 0.005, p = 0.0342). Our data indicate that multiple loci regulate sgp130 levels and suggest a possible common pathway between sgp130 and c-IMT measures.
Dynamic MAIT cell response with progressively enhanced innateness during acute HIV-1 infection
Authors: Lal Kerri G. , Kim Dohoon , Costanzo Margaret C. , Creegan Matthew , Leeansyah Edwin , Dias Joana , Paquin-Proulx Dominic , Eller Leigh Anne , Schuetz Alexandra , Phuang-ngern Yuwadee , Krebs Shelly J. , Slike Bonnie M. , Kibuuka Hannah , Maganga Lucas , Nitayaphan Sorachai , Kosgei Josphat , Sacdalan Carlo , Ananworanich Jintanat , Bolton Diane L. , Michael Nelson L. , Shacklett Barbara L. , Robb Merlin L. , Eller Michael A. , Sandberg Johan K.
Published: January 2020

Mucosa-associated invariant T (MAIT) cell loss in chronic HIV-1 infection is a significant insult to antimicrobial immune defenses. Here we investigate the response of MAIT cells during acute HIV-1 infection utilizing the RV217 cohort with paired longitudinal pre- and post-infection samples. MAIT cells are activated and expand in blood and mucosa coincident with peak HIV-1 viremia, in a manner associated with emerging microbial translocation. This is followed by a phase with elevated function as viral replication is controlled to a set-point level, and later by their functional decline at the onset of chronic infection. Interestingly, enhanced innate-like pathways and characteristics develop progressively in MAIT cells during infection, in parallel with TCR repertoire alterations. These findings delineate the dynamic MAIT cell response to acute HIV-1 infection, and show how the MAIT compartment initially responds and expands with enhanced function, followed by progressive reprogramming away from TCR-dependent antibacterial responses towards innate-like functionality.
Heuristic recurrent algorithms for photonic Ising machines
Authors: Roques-Carmes Charles , Shen Yichen , Zanoci Cristian , Prabhu Mihika , Atieh Fadi , Jing Li , Dubček Tena , Mao Chenkai , Johnson Miles R. , Čeperić Vladimir , Joannopoulos John D. , Englund Dirk , Soljačić Marin
Published: January 2020

The inability of conventional electronic architectures to efficiently solve large combinatorial problems motivates the development of novel computational hardware. There has been much effort toward developing application-specific hardware across many different fields of engineering, such as integrated circuits, memristors, and photonics. However, unleashing the potential of such architectures requires the development of algorithms which optimally exploit their fundamental properties. Here, we present the Photonic Recurrent Ising Sampler (PRIS), a heuristic method tailored for parallel architectures allowing fast and efficient sampling from distributions of arbitrary Ising problems. Since the PRIS relies on vector-to-fixed matrix multiplications, we suggest the implementation of the PRIS in photonic parallel networks, which realize these operations at an unprecedented speed. The PRIS provides sample solutions to the ground state of Ising models, by converging in probability to their associated Gibbs distribution. The PRIS also relies on intrinsic dynamic noise and eigenvalue dropout to find ground states more efficiently. Our work suggests speedups in heuristic methods via photonic implementations of the PRIS.
Integrated single cell analysis of blood and cerebrospinal fluid leukocytes in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Schafflick David , Xu Chenling A. , Hartlehnert Maike , Cole Michael , Schulte-Mecklenbeck Andreas , Lautwein Tobias , Wolbert Jolien , Heming Michael , Meuth Sven G. , Kuhlmann Tanja , Gross Catharina C. , Wiendl Heinz , Yosef Nir , Meyer zu Horste Gerd
Published: January 2020

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protects the central nervous system (CNS) and analyzing CSF aids the diagnosis of CNS diseases, but our understanding of CSF leukocytes remains superficial. Here, using single cell transcriptomics, we identify a specific location-associated composition and transcriptome of CSF leukocytes. Multiple sclerosis (MS) – an autoimmune disease of the CNS – increases transcriptional diversity in blood, but increases cell type diversity in CSF including a higher abundance of cytotoxic phenotype T helper cells. An analytical approach, named cell set enrichment analysis (CSEA) identifies a cluster-independent increase of follicular (TFH) cells potentially driving the known expansion of B lineage cells in the CSF in MS. In mice, TFH cells accordingly promote B cell infiltration into the CNS and the severity of MS animal models. Immune mechanisms in MS are thus highly compartmentalized and indicate ongoing local T/B cell interaction.
Synaptic density marker SV2A is reduced in schizophrenia patients and unaffected by antipsychotics in rats
Authors: Onwordi Ellis Chika , Halff Els F. , Whitehurst Thomas , Mansur Ayla , Cotel Marie-Caroline , Wells Lisa , Creeney Hannah , Bonsall David , Rogdaki Maria , Shatalina Ekaterina , Reis Marques Tiago , Rabiner Eugenii A. , Gunn Roger N. , Natesan Sridhar , Vernon Anthony C. , Howes Oliver D.
Published: January 2020

Synaptic dysfunction is hypothesised to play a key role in schizophrenia pathogenesis, but this has not been tested directly in vivo.  Here, we investigated synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) levels and their relationship to symptoms and structural brain measures using [11C]UCB-J positron emission tomography in 18 patients with schizophrenia and 18 controls. We found significant group and group-by-region interaction effects on volume of distribution (VT). [11C]UCB-JVTwas significantly lower in the frontal and anterior cingulate cortices in schizophrenia with large effect sizes (Cohen’sd = 0.8-0.9), but there was no significant difference in the hippocampus. We also investigated the effects of antipsychotic drug administration on SV2A levels in Sprague-Dawley rats using western blotting, [3H]UCB-J autoradiography and immunostaining with confocal microscopy, finding no significant effects on any measure. These findings indicate that there are lower synaptic terminal protein levels in schizophrenia in vivo and that antipsychotic drug exposure is unlikely to account for them.
Haspin-dependent and independent effects of the kinase inhibitor 5-Iodotubercidin on self-renewal and differentiation
Authors: Karanika Eleftheria , Soupsana Katerina , Christogianni Anastasia , Stellas Dimitris , Klinakis Apostolos , Politou Anastasia S. , Georgatos Spyros
Published: January 2020

The kinase Haspin phosphorylates histone H3 at threonine-3 (H3T3ph), creating a docking site for the Chromosomal Passenger Complex (CPC). CPC plays a pivotal role in preventing chromosome misalignment. Here, we have examined the effects of 5-Iodotubercidin (5-ITu), a commonly used Haspin inhibitor, on self-renewal and differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Treatment with low concentrations of 5-ITu eliminates the H3T3ph mark during mitosis, but does not affect the mode or the outcome of self-renewal divisions. Interestingly, 5-ITu causes sustained accumulation of p53, increases markedly the expression of histone genes and results in reversible upregulation of the pluripotency factor Klf4. However, the properties of 5-ITu treated cells are distinct from those observed in Haspin-knockout cells generated by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, suggesting “off-target” effects. Continuous exposure to 5-ITu allows modest expansion of the ESC population and growth of embryoid bodies, but release from the drug after an initial treatment aborts embryoid body or teratoma formation. The data reveal an unusual robustness of ESCs against mitotic perturbants and suggest that the lack of H3T3ph and the “off-target” effects of 5-ITu can be partially compensated by changes in expression program or accumulation of suppressor mutations.
Author Correction: Multi-layer adaptation of group coordination in musical ensembles
Authors: Hilt Pauline M. , Badino Leonardo , D’Ausilio Alessandro , Volpe Gualtiero , Tokay Serâ , Fadiga Luciano , Camurri Antonio
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Phonological network fluency identifies phonological restructuring through mental search
Authors: Neergaard Karl David , Luo Jin , Huang Chu-Ren
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Challenges in reporting pathogenic/potentially pathogenic variants in 94 cancer predisposing genes - in pediatric patients screened with NGS panels
Authors: Chirita-Emandi Adela , Andreescu Nicoleta , Zimbru Cristian G. , Tutac Paul , Arghirescu Smaranda , Serban Margit , Puiu Maria
Published: January 2020

The benefit of reporting unsolicited findings in Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) related to cancer genes in children may have implications for family members, nevertheless, could also cause distress. We aimed to retrospectively investigate germline variants in 94 genes implicated in oncogenesis, in patients referred to NGS testing for various rare genetic diseases and reevaluate the utility of reporting different classes of pathogenicity. We used in silico prediction software to classify variants and conducted manual review to examine unsolicited findings frequencies in 145 children with rare diseases, that underwent sequencing - using a 4813 gene panel. The anonymized reanalysis revealed 18250 variants, of which 126 were considered after filtering. Six pathogenic variants (in BRCA1,BMPR1A,FANCA,FANCC,NBN genes) with cancer related phenotype and three unsolicited variants (in BRCA2,PALB2,RAD50 genes) were reported to patients. Additionally, three unsolicited variants in ATR, BLM (in two individuals), and FANCB genes presented potential cancer susceptibility, were not reported to patients. In retrospect, 4.8% (7/145) of individuals in our cohort had unsolicited NGS findings related to cancer. More efforts are needed to create an updatable consensus in reporting variants in cancer predisposing genes, especially for children. Consent process is crucial to inform of both value and risk of additional genetic information.
Sublethal and transgenerational effects of dinotefuran on biological parameters and behavioural traits of the mirid bug Apolygus lucorum
Authors: Lu Zengbin , Dong Song , Li Chao , Li Lili , Yu Yi , Men Xingyuan , Yin Shuyan
Published: January 2020

The mirid bug, Apolygus lucorum, has become a major pest of many crops and fruit trees since the widespread adoption of Bt cotton in northern China. Neonicotinoid insecticides, such as dinotefuran, applied to control this pest may show sublethal effects, but evidence for such effects is lacking. Here, we investigated the sublethal and transgenerational effects of dinotefuran on biological parameters and feeding behavioural traits of A. lucorum using the age-stage, two-sex life table and electrical penetration graphs (EPGs), respectively. The LC10 and LC30 of dinotefuran against 3rd-instar nymphs of A. lucorum were 14.72 and 62.95 mg L−1, respectively. These two concentrations significantly extended the development duration from 3rd-instar nymph to adult in parent generation (F0). LC30 also increased the oviposition period and male adult longevity and reduced nymphal survival rate in the F0. For offspring generation (F1), the egg duration, preadult duration, and total preoviposition period were significantly lower at LC10 than in the control, and the egg duration, duration of 4th-instar nymphs, preadult duration, oviposition period, and fecundity were also decreased at LC30. However, the four demographic parameters of F1 generation, namely, net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and mean generation time (T), were not affected by dinotefuran. The significant differences in the number of probes and duration of each of four feeding waveforms failed to be detected when A. lucorum nymphs treated by dinotefuran feed on Bt cotton plants without insecticide exposure. Overall, the dinotefuran concentrations tested here have sublethal, but no transgenerational impacts on A. lucorum.
Biopolymers as a sustainable solution for the enhancement of soil mechanical properties
Authors: Soldo Antonio , Miletić Marta , Auad Maria L.
Published: January 2020

Improving soil engineering properties is an inevitable process before construction on soft soil. Increasing soil strength with chemical stabilizing agents, such as cement, raises environmental concerns. Therefore, sustainable solutions are in high demand. One of the promising solutions is the usage of biopolymers. Five biopolymer types were investigated in this study: Xanthan Gum, Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan, Guar Gum, Chitosan, and Alginate. Their effect on the soil strength improvement was experimentally investigated by performing unconfined compression, splitting tensile, triaxial, and direct shear tests. All tests were performed with different biopolymer concentrations and curing periods. Additionally, in order to have an insight on the susceptibility to natural elements, plain soil, and biopolymer-treated specimens were exposed to real atmospheric conditions. The extensive experimental results showed that the soil strength tends to increase with the increase of biopolymer concentration and with the curing time. However, it was shown that the soil strength does not considerably change after a certain biopolymer concentration level and curing time. Furthermore, it has been observed that the biopolymer-treated specimens showed better resistance to the influence of the environmental conditions. In general, Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, and Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan showed the most dominant effect and potential for the future of sustainable engineering.
The clock gene Gigantea 1 from Petunia hybrida coordinates vegetative growth and inflorescence architecture
Authors: Brandoli Claudio , Petri César , Egea-Cortines Marcos , Weiss Julia
Published: January 2020

The gene GIGANTEA (GI) appeared early in land plants. It is a single copy gene in most plants and is found in two to three copies in Solanaceae. We analyzed the silencing of one GI copy, Petunia hybrida GI1 (PhGI1), by hairpin RNAs in Petunia in order to gain knowledge about its range of functions. Decreased transcript levels of PhGI1 were accompanied also by a reduction of PhGI2. They were further associated with increased time period between two consecutive peaks for PhGI1 and CHANEL (PhCHL), the orthologue of the blue light receptor gene ZEITLUPE (ZTL), confirming its role in maintaining circadian rhythmicity. Silenced plants were bigger with modified internode length and increased leaf size while flowering time was not altered. We uncovered a new function for PhGI1 as silenced plants showed reduction of flower bud number and the appearance of two flower buds in the bifurcation point, were normally one flower bud and the inflorescence meristem separate. Furthermore, one of the flower buds consistently showed premature flower abortion. Flowers that developed fully were significantly smaller as a result of decreased cell size. Even so the circadian pattern of volatile emission was unchanged in the silenced lines, flowers emitted 20% less volatiles on fresh weight basis over 24 hours and showed changes in the scent profile. Our results indicate a novel role of PhGI1 in the development of reproductive organs in Petunia. PhGI1 therefore represses growth in vegetative plant parts, maintains the typical cymose inflorescence structure, and inhibits premature flower abortion.
Observations of the warm-tongue circulation in the northern East China Sea
Authors: Lee Hojun , Lee Kyungjae , Nam SungHyun , Lee Jae-Hak
Published: January 2020

A subsurface thermohaline front semi-permanently formed in association with near-bottom cyclonic circulation in the northern East China Sea was newly found from detailed hydrographic data collected during two cruises in February 2017 (winter) and April 2018 (spring) along with supplementary satellite remote sensing and historical hydrographic data. An alternate intruding frontal structure in water properties was observed across the cyclonic circulation in both seasons as formed by two contrasting water masses—low-temperature and low-salinity (i.e., low spiciness) water transported by the East China Sea Current and high-temperature and high-salinity (i.e., high spiciness) water transported by the Tsushima Warm Current. Consistent structures were confirmed from current observations during the two cruises, historical hydrographic observations, and satellite altimetry-derived sea surface height and surface frontal structure, indicative of retroflection of the Cheju Warm Current as deemed by the seasonal development of thermal stratification in spring. Our results reveal significant heat and material exchanges between the open Pacific and the broad shelf, particularly via diapycnal mixing and cross-front transports associated with across-front flow and cyclonic circulation, in the northern East China Sea.
Cysteine-silver-gold Nanocomposite as potential stable green corrosion inhibitor for mild steel under acidic condition
Authors: Basik Megha , Mobin Mohammad , Shoeb Mohd
Published: January 2020

Cysteine based silver-gold nanocomposite (Cys/Ag-Au NCz) was synthesized, this was followed by its characterization using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cys/Ag-Au NCz was studied as novel green corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1M HCl solution at varying concentration and temperature using gravimetric, Potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), SEM, EDAX and FTIR. Weight loss, PDP and EIS studies confirmed Cys/Ag-Au NCz as efficient corrosion inhibitor at moderately low concentration. The maximum inhibition efficiency of 96 % was observed at 303 K at 300 ppm. Cys/Ag-Au NCz acted by affecting both anodic and cathodic processes and its adsorption on steel surface followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. EIS data displayed the existence of protective film at mild steel/solution interface in Cys/Ag-Au NCz inhibited system. SEM micrograph in presence of Cys/Ag-Au NCz inhibited acid solution displayed better morphology as compared to blank solution. The UV-Vis and FTIR data indicates good interaction between the Cys/Ag-Au NCz and steel surface.
Color and genesis of californite from Pakistan: insights from μ-XRF mapping, optical spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Lu Zhiyun , He Xuemei , Lin Chenlu , Liang Lin , Jin Xinyu , Guo Qingfeng
Published: January 2020

Four californite samples from Pakistan with yellowish-green, green and reddish-brown colors were investigated by combining the methods of μ-XRF mapping, XRD, Raman spectra, optical spectra, EPMA and XPS. The results show that the californite is composed mainly of microcrystalline vesuvianite and smaller amounts of clinochlore. Based on the distribution of the clinochlore, the californite can be divided into three types. The gem-quality californite is composed of microcrystalline vesuvianite and has a translucent appearance. The ordinary-quality californite contains microcrystalline vesuvianite as well as clinochlore, and it has an opaque appearance. The transitional-type has properties that are intermediate between those of gem- and ordinary-quality californite. Octahedrally coordinated iron and chromium in the clinochlore reduce the transparency and contribute to the opaque green and yellowish-green colors of the californite. At sites where there is no clinochlore, Cr3+ in the octahedrally coordinated site Y3 of the vesuvianite is mainly responsible for the green tone of the californite, Fe3+ and Mn3+ at the Y3 site contribute mainly to the yellowish-green and reddish-brown colors, respectively. The Fe2+ → Fe3+ charge transfer also occurs in vesuvianite and partly influences the appearance of the californite. The actual color of californite that lacks clinochlore is due to the synergy of Cr3+, Fe3+ and Mn3+ crystal field transfers at the octahedral site Y3 as well as the Fe2+ → Fe3+ charge transfer in the vesuvianite. Vesuvianite in the californite can be assigned to the P4/n space group, and the occurrence of clinochlore reflects the fact that the californite from Pakistan formed under medium-grade metamorphic conditions at temperatures of ~300–500 °C. The content of clinochlore provides a basis for grading the quality of the californite.
Endoplasmic reticulum-derived bodies enable a single-cell chemical defense in Brassicaceae plants
Authors: Yamada Kenji , Goto-Yamada Shino , Nakazaki Akiko , Kunieda Tadashi , Kuwata Keiko , Nagano Atsushi J. , Nishimura Mikio , Hara-Nishimura Ikuko
Published: January 2020

Brassicaceae plants have a dual-cell type of chemical defense against herbivory. Here, we show a novel single-cell defense involving endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-derived organelles (ER bodies) and the vacuoles. We identify various glucosinolates as endogenous substrates of the ER-body β-glucosidases BGLU23 and BGLU21. Woodlice strongly prefer to eat seedlings of bglu23 bglu21 or a glucosinolate-deficient mutant over wild-type seedlings, confirming that the β-glucosidases have a role in chemical defense: production of toxic compounds upon organellar damage. Deficiency of the Brassicaceae-specific protein NAI2 prevents ER-body formation, which results in a loss of BGLU23 and a loss of resistance to woodlice. Hence, NAI2 that interacts with BGLU23 is essential for sequestering BGLU23 in ER bodies and preventing its degradation. Artificial expression of NAI2 and BGLU23 in non-Brassicaceae plants results in the formation of ER bodies, indicating that acquisition of NAI2 by Brassicaceae plants is a key step in developing their single-cell defense system.
Human serum albumin as an intrinsic signal amplification amplifier for ultrasensitive assays of the prostate-specific antigen in human plasma
Authors: Yang Le , Zheng Jing , Zou Zhen , Cai Haiyan , Qi Peng , Qing Zhihe , Yan Qi , Qiu Liping , Tan Weihong , Yang Ronghua
Published: January 2020

Endogenous human serum albumin is used as an intrinsic signal amplification amplifier for ultrasensitive assays of disease biomarkers in blood tests.
High-performance natural-sunlight-driven Ag/AgCl photocatalysts with a cube-like morphology and blunt edges via a bola-type surfactant-assisted synthesis
Authors: Wang Nannan , Cheng Ke , Xu Zhong-Fei , Li Peng , Geng Guangwei , Chen Chuncheng , Wang Dongjun , Chen Penglei , Liu Minghua
Published: January 2020

Cube-like Ag/AgCl with blunt edges has been fabricated via a bola-type surfactant-assisted synthesis. Compared to the sphere-like Ag/AgCl produced using tadpole surfactant, the as-fabricated structures exhibit greatly boosted photocatalytic activity.
A spin–orbit coupling-induced two-dimensional electron gas in BiAlO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures
Authors: Pulikkotil J. J.
Published: January 2020

Both LaAlO3 and BiAlO3 are isostructural, isoelectronic and band insulators. Hence, first principles study using supercells are performed to determine the emergence of two-dimensional electron gas at the interface of BiAlO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures.
Over 17% efficiency ternary organic solar cells enabled by two non-fullerene acceptors working in an alloy-like model
Authors: Zhan Lingling , Li Shuixing , Lau Tsz-Ki , Cui Yong , Lu Xinhui , Shi Minmin , Li Chang-Zhi , Li Hanying , Hou Jianhui , Chen Hongzheng
Published: January 2020

An alloy-like model based on Y6 and its derivative BTP-M is constructed to fabricate ternary organic solar cells, leading to a best efficiency of 17.03%.
α-Lactalbumin and chitosan core–shell nanoparticles: resveratrol loading, protection, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Liu Yuexiang , Gao Luyu , Yi Jiang , Fan Yuting , Wu Xuli , Zhang Yuzhu
Published: January 2020

Resveratrol (RES)-loaded protein–polysaccharide nanoparticles were fabricated through simple electrostatic interactions with oppositely charged α-lactalbumin (ALA) and chitosan (CHI) with a mass ratio of 5 : 1 without the addition of NaCl at pH 6.5.
Hydrogels assembled from ovotransferrin fibrils and xanthan gum as dihydromyricetin delivery vehicles
Authors: Wei Zihao , Chen Yongsheng , Wijaya Wahyu , Cheng Yujia , Xiao Jie , Huang Qingrong
Published: January 2020

Novel ovotransferrin fibril–xanthan gum hydrogels were assembled to deliver dihydromyricetin effectively.
Fully bio-derived CO2 polymers for non-isocyanate based polyurethane synthesis
Authors: Dechent Sarah-Elisabeth , Kleij Arjan W. , Luinstra Gerrit A.
Published: January 2020

The synthesis of partly carbonated polybutadienes (PC-PBDs) was developed starting from partly epoxidized polybutadienes (PE-PBDs) and CO2 as renewable feedstock.
An asymmetric hot carrier tunneling van der Waals heterostructure for multibit optoelectronic memory
Authors: Chen Yuqian , Yu Jun , Zhuge Fuwei , He Yuhui , Zhang Qingfu , Yu Shiwen , Liu Kailang , Li Liang , Ma Ying , Zhai Tianyou
Published: January 2020

Novel optoelectronic memory is fabricated using a van der Waals heterostructure of PtS2/h-BN/graphene with asymmetric hot carrier tunneling barriers.
Hierarchical structure N, O-co-doped porous carbon/carbon nanotube composite derived from coal for supercapacitors and CO2 capture
Authors: Hao Jian , Wang Xiu , Wang Yanxia , Lai Xiaoyong , Guo Qingjie , Zhao Jiupeng , Yang Yu , Li Yao
Published: January 2020

The energy and environmental crises have forced us to search for a new green energy source and develop energy storage and environmental restoration technologies.
Magnetic field induced uniaxial alignment of the lyotropic liquid-crystalline PMMA-grafted Fe3O4 nanoplates with controllable interparticle interaction
Authors: Shen Chen , Matsubara Masaki , Yabushita Mizuho , Maki Sachiko , Muramatsu Atsushi , Kanie Kiyoshi
Published: January 2020

Lyotropic liquid-crystalline PMMA-grafted Fe3O4 nanoplates with controllable interparticle interaction showed a uniaxially aligned nematic columnar structure under an external magnetic field.