bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum albumin cysteine trioxidation is a potential oxidative stress biomarker of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Paramasivan Selvam , Adav Sunil S. , Ngan SoFong Cam , Dalan Rinkoo , Leow Melvin Khee-Shing , Ho Hee Hwa , Sze Siu Kwan
Published: April 2020

Metabolic disorders in T2DM generate multiple sources of free radicals and oxidative stress that accelerate nonenzymatic degenerative protein modifications (DPMs) such as protein oxidation, disrupt redox signaling and physiological function, and remain a major risk factor for clinical diabetic vascular complications. In order to identify potential oxidative biomarkers in the blood plasma of patients with T2DM, we used LC-MS/MS-based proteomics to profile plasma samples from patients with T2DM and healthy controls. The results showed that human serum albumin (HSA) is damaged by irreversible cysteine trioxidation, which can be a potential oxidative stress biomarker for the early diagnosis of T2DM. The quantitative detection of site-specific thiol trioxidation is technically challenging; thus, we developed a sensitive and selective LC-MS/MS workflow that has been used to discover and quantify three unique thiol-trioxidized HSA peptides, ALVLIAFAQYLQQC(SO3H)PFEDHVK (m/z 1241.13), YIC(SO3H)ENQDSISSK (m/z 717.80) and RPC(SO3H)FSALEVDETYVPK (m/z 951.45), in 16 individual samples of healthy controls (n = 8) and individuals with diabetes (n = 8). Targeted quantitative analysis using multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry revealed impairment of the peptides with m/z 1241.13, m/z 717.80 and m/z 951.45, with significance (P < 0.02, P < 0.002 and P < 0.03), in individuals with diabetes. The results demonstrated that a set of three HSA thiol-trioxidized peptides, which are irreversibly oxidatively damaged in HSA in the plasma of patients with T2DM, can be important indicators and potential biomarkers of oxidative stress in T2DM.
Author Correction: Mud volcanoes and the presence of PAHs
Authors: Remizovschi Alexei , Carpa Rahela , Forray Ferenc L. , Chiriac Cecilia , Roba Carmen-Andreea , Beldean-Galea Simion , Andrei Adrian-Ștefan , Szekeres Edina , Baricz Andreea , Lupan Iulia , Rudi Knut , Coman Cristian
Published: April 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Shut down of the South American summer monsoon during the penultimate glacial
Authors: Rodríguez-Zorro Paula A. , Ledru Marie-Pierre , Bard Edouard , Aquino-Alfonso Olga , Camejo Adriana , Daniau Anne-Laure , Favier Charly , Garcia Marta , Mineli Thays D. , Rostek Frauke , Ricardi-Branco Fresia , Sawakuchi André Oliveira , Simon Quentin , Tachikawa Kazuyo , Thouveny Nicolas
Published: April 2020

We analysed changes in mean annual air temperature (MAAT), vegetation and biomass burning on a long and continuous lake-peat sediment record from the Colônia basin, southeastern Brazil, examining the responses of a wet tropical rainforest over the last 180 ka. Stronger southern atmospheric circulation up to the latitude of Colônia was found for the penultimate glacial with lower temperatures than during the last glacial, while strengthening of the South American summer monsoon (SASM) circulation started during the last interglacial and progressively enhanced a longer wet summer season from 95 ka until the present. Past MAAT variations and fire history were possibly modulated by eccentricity, although with signatures which differ in average and in amplitude between the last 180 ka. Vegetation responses were driven by the interplay between the SASM and southern circulation linked to Antarctic ice volume, inferred by the presence of a cool mixed evergreen forest from 180 to 45 ka progressively replaced by a rainforest. We report cooler temperatures during the marine isotope stage 3 (MIS 3: 57-29 ka) than during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM: 23–19 ka). Our findings show that tropical forest dynamics display different patterns than mid-latitude during the last 180 ka.
A First Comprehensive Baseline of Hydrocarbon Pollution in Gulf of Mexico Fishes
Authors: Pulster Erin L. , Gracia Adolfo , Armenteros Maickel , Toro-Farmer Gerardo , Snyder Susan M. , Carr Brigid E. , Schwaab Madison R. , Nicholson Tiffany J. , Mrowicki Justin , Murawski Steven A.
Published: April 2020

Despite over seven decades of production and hundreds of oil spills per year, there were no comprehensive baselines for petroleum contamination in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) prior to this study. Subsequent to the 2010Deepwater Horizon(DWH) spill, we implemented Gulf-wide fish surveys extending over seven years (2011–2018). A total of 2,503 fishes, comprised of 91 species, were sampled from 359 locations and evaluated for biliary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations. The northern GoM had significantly higher total biliary PAH concentrations than the West Florida Shelf, and coastal regions off Mexico and Cuba. The highest concentrations of biliary PAH metabolites occurred in Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares), Golden Tilefish (Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps), and Red Drum (Sciaenops ocellatus). Conversely, biliary PAH concentrations were relatively low for most other species including economically important snappers and groupers. While oil contamination in most demersal species in the north central GoM declined in the first few years following DWH, more recent increases in exposure to PAHs in some species suggest a complex interaction between multiple input sources and possible re-suspension or bioturbation of oil-contaminated sediments. This study provides the most comprehensive baselines of PAH exposure in fishes ever conducted for a large marine ecosystem.
Changes in Water and Sewage Management after Communism: example of the Oder River Basin (Central Europe)
Authors: Marszelewski Włodzimierz , Piasecki Adam
Published: April 2020

This paper presents changes in water and sewage management in the cross-border Oder River basin in the period since the post-communist political and economic system transformation, including the period after Poland’s accession to the European Union. The Oder River basin, with an area of 124,000 km2, is the second largest basin in the Baltic Sea Basin, and therefore requires particular protection. It was emphasised that in the years 1989–2017, water withdrawal for production purposes considerably decreased (by 42%), as well as water withdrawal for exploitation of the water supply system (by 33%). The amount of sewage discharged to rivers was also reduced (by approximately 50%), and treatment technologies considerably improved. Changes in water and sewage management were presented in spatial form, i.e. by hydrographic regions of the Oder River basin. Particular attention was paid to changes in sewage management in cities. They involved among others the liquidation of mechanical treatment plants and a considerable increase in the number of cities with treatment plants with increased nutrient removal. The analysis of the effect of the changes in water and sewage management on the quality of the Oder River and Baltic Sea was also performed, and the rate of decrease in loads of contaminants most harmful to water ecosystems was determined. The role of European Union funds and national funds in the implementation of investments in the scope of water management was emphasised. Finally, attention was drawn to the need to intensify works for protecting waters in agricultural areas, which currently constitute the primary threat to their quality. Several top-priority tasks were also specified that should be implemented in the near future for the purpose of obtaining a good ecological state of waters in the Oder River basin pursuant to the Water Framework Directive.
Adherence to nine-month isoniazid for latent tuberculosis infection in healthcare workers: a prospective study in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Chung Sung Jun , Lee Hyun , Koo Gun Woo , Min Ji-Hee , Yeo Yoomi , Park Dong Won , Park Tai Sun , Moon Ji-Yong , Kim Sang-Heon , Kim Tae Hyung , Sohn Jang Won , Yoon Ho Joo
Published: April 2020

Poor adherence to medication can lead to treatment failure in healthcare workers (HWCs) with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) who are at high risk of developing active tuberculosis. However, the factors associated with non-completion of nine-month LTBI treatment with isoniazid (9 H) have not been well studied. We investigated the completion rate and factors affecting adherence to LTBI treatment with 9 H among HCWs. A prospective cohort study of 114 HCWs who were diagnosed with LTBI by QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube tests were performed in a single university hospital between June 2016 and December 2017. All patients received the 9 H LTBI treatment. At each visit, treatment adherence and development of adverse reactions to isoniazid were evaluated via a standard questionnaire. To evaluate the impact of the severity of hepatotoxicity on non-completion of LTBI treatment, we classified hepatotoxicity into two groups: severe hepatotoxicity was defined as alanine aminotransferase >3.0 times the upper normal limit (UNL) with symptoms or  = 5.0 times the UNL. Mild hepatotoxicity was defined as alanine aminotransferase>UNL, but not meet the definition of severe hepatotoxicity. Overall, 71 HCWs (62.3%) completed LTBI treatment with 9 H while 43 HCWs (37.7%) discontinued their treatment. Most discontinuation (81.4%, 35/43) occurred during the first three months of treatment. There were no significant differences in age, sex, occupation, or comorbidities between the HCWs who completed and those who discontinued LTBI treatment. However, HCWs who discontinued LTBI treatment had more hepatotoxicity than those who completed treatment (44.2% vs. 11.3%, P < 0.001). Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed that hepatotoxicity is the only factor significantly associated with discontinuation of 9 H LTBI treatment (unadjusted HR = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.62–5.46). In multivariable analysis, not only severe hepatotoxicity (adjusted HR = 7.99, 95% CI = 3.05–20.94) but also mild hepatotoxicity was significantly associated with discontinuation of LTBI treatment (adjusted HR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.05–5.21). The completion rate of 9 H LTBI treatment was 62.3% among HCWs. While age, sex, occupation, and pretreatment comorbidities were not associated with treatment completion, isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity significantly affected adherence.
Author Correction: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blocker monotherapy retard deterioration of renal function in Taiwanese chronic kidney disease population
Authors: Zheng Cai-Mei , Wang Jia-Yi , Chen Tzu-Ting , Wu Yun-Chun , Wu Yi-Lien , Lin Hsin-Ting , Chiu Sheng-Po , Chang Tian-Jong , Zheng Jing-Quan , Chu Nain-Feng , Lin Yu-Me , Su Sui-Lung , Lu Kuo-Cheng , Chen Jin-Shuen , Sung Fung-Chang , Lee Chien-Te , Yang Yu , Hwang Shang-Jyh , Wang Ming-Cheng , Hsu Yung-Ho , Chiou Hung-Yi , Kao Senyeong , Wu Mei-Yi , Lin Yuh-Feng
Published: April 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Trace elements and C and N isotope composition in two mushroom species from a mine-spill contaminated site
Authors: Gil-Martínez Marta , Navarro-Fernández Carmen M. , Murillo José M. , Domínguez María T. , Marañón Teodoro
Published: April 2020

Fungi play a key role in the functioning of soil in terrestrial ecosystems, and in particular in the remediation of degraded soils. The contribution of fungi to carbon and nutrient cycles, along with their capability to mobilise soil trace elements, is well-known. However, the importance of life history strategy for these functions has not yet been thoroughly studied. This study explored the soil-fungi relationship of two wild edible fungi, the ectomycorrhizalLaccaria laccataand the saprotrophVolvopluteus gloiocephalus. Fruiting bodies and surrounding soils in a mine-spill contaminated area were analysed. Isotope analyses revealedLaccaria laccatafruiting bodies were15N-enriched when compared toVolvopluteus gloiocephalus, likely due to the transfer of15N-depleted compounds to their host plant. Moreover,Laccaria laccatafruiting bodies δ13C values were closer to host plant values than surrounding soil, whileVolvopluteus gloiocephalusmatched the δ13C composition to that of the soil. Fungal species presented high bioaccumulation and concentrations of Cd and Cu in their fruiting bodies. Human consumption of these fruiting bodies may represent a toxicological risk due to their elevated Cd concentrations.
Spatiotemporal heterogeneity of social contact patterns related to infectious diseases in the Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Huang Yulin , Cai Xiaoshuang , Zhang Bing , Zhu Guanghu , Liu Tao , Guo Pi , Xiao Jianpeng , Li Xing , Zeng Weilin , Hu Jianxiong , Ma Wenjun
Published: April 2020

The social contact patterns associated with the infectious disease transmitted by airborne droplets or close contact follow specific rules. Understanding these processes can improve the accuracy of disease transmission models, permitting their integration into model simulations. In this study, we performed a large-scale population-based survey to collect social contact patterns in three cities on the Pearl River Delta of China in winter and summer. A total of 5,818 participants were face-to-face interviewed and 35,542 contacts were recorded. The average number of contacts per person each day was 16.7 considering supplementary professional contacts (SPCs). Contacts that occurred on a daily basis, lasted more than 4 hours, and took place in households were more likely to involve physical contact. The seasonal characteristics of social contact were heterogeneous, such that contact in the winter was more likely to involve physical contact compared to summer months. The spatial characteristics of the contacts were similar. Social mixing patterns differed according to age, but all ages maintained regular contact with their peers. Taken together, these findings describe the spatiotemporal distribution of social contact patterns relevant to infections in the Guangdong Province of China. This information provides important parameters for mathematical models of infectious diseases.
Nanodiamond phantoms mimicking human liver: perspective to calibration of T1 relaxation time in magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Sękowska Anna , Majchrowicz Daria , Sabisz Agnieszka , Ficek Mateusz , Bułło-Piontecka Barbara , Kosowska Monika , Jing Lina , Bogdanowicz Robert , Szczerska Małgorzata
Published: April 2020

Phantoms of biological tissues are materials that mimic the properties of real tissues. This study shows the development of phantoms with nanodiamond particles for calibration of T1 relaxation time in magnetic resonance imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a commonly used and non-invasive method of detecting pathological changes inside the human body. Nevertheless, before a new MRI device is approved for use, it is necessary to calibrate it properly and to check its technical parameters. In this article, we present phantoms of tissue with diamond nanoparticles dedicated to magnetic resonance calibration. The method of producing phantoms has been described. As a result of our research, we obtained phantoms that were characterized by the relaxation time T1 the same as the relaxation time of the human tissue T1 = 810.5 ms. Furthermore, the use of diamond nanoparticles in phantoms allowed us to tune the T1 value of the phantoms which open the way to elaborated phantoms of other tissues in the future.
Characterizing pollution and source identification of heavy metals in soils using geochemical baseline and PMF approach
Authors: Jiang Hui-Hao , Cai Li-Mei , Wen Han-Hui , Luo Jie
Published: April 2020

It is necessary to establish local geochemical baseline concentrations (GBCs) due to the lack or the inapplicability of regional background values in the study area. The establishment of GBCs of heavy metal (HM) in soil helps in making the accurate assessment of pollution, and then provides a basis for pollution control. Based on this, a case study was undertaken to study the GBCs of the Jiedong District, Guangdong Province, China. In this research, cumulative frequency distribution curves were utilized to determine the local GBCs in the subsoils. The determined GBCs of Cr, Hg, As, Pb, Ni, Cd, Cu, Zn, Co and V were 39.91, 0.072, 11.48, 47.62, 12.70, 0.17, 14.22, 64.54, 6.31, and 68.14 mg/kg, respectively. The average concentrations of Hg, As, Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn in the topsoils exceeded the corresponding baseline concentrations. In particular, the contents of Cd and Hg were 1.53 and 2.22 times higher than GBCs. According to this baseline criterion, enrichment factor (EF), pollution load index (PLI) and ecological risk index (RI) were applied to assessing HM pollution. EF and PLI suggested that most areas were under moderate contamination, while Hg and Cd pollution was more serious. And the RI values presented that the potential ecological risks were low in most parts of the study area. The possible origins of HMs were identified by combining positive matrix factorization with EF and geostatistics. Comprehensive analysis indicated that Hg and Cd were related to industrial activities, such as textile and garment processing, plastic and rubber production and metal manufacturing. Arsenic and part of Cu mainly came from agricultural activities, namely the use of pesticides, fertilizers and livestock manures. Lead and Zn were mainly attributed to traffic emissions. Chromium, Ni, V, Co, and part of Cu were originated from natural source controlled by parent materials. The corresponding contributions of these sources were 20.61%, 24.20%, 19.22% and 35.97%, respectively. This work provides information to prevent and control the soil HM pollution by proposing the efficient management of anthropogenic sources.
Preclinical immunotherapy with Cytokine-Induced Killer lymphocytes against epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Capellero S. , Erriquez J. , Melano C. , Mesiano G. , Genta S. , Pisacane A. , Mittica G. , Ghisoni E. , Olivero M. , Di Renzo M. F. , Aglietta M. , Sangiolo D. , Valabrega G.
Published: April 2020

Despite improvements in surgery and medical treatments, epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains the most lethal gynaecological malignancy. Aim of this study is to investigate the preclinical immunotherapy activity of cytokine-induced killer lymphocytes (CIK) against epithelial ovarian cancers, focusing on platinum-resistant settings. We generated CIKex vivostarting from human peripheral blood samples (PBMCs) collected from EOC patients. Their antitumor activity was testedin vitroandin vivoagainst platinum-resistant patient-derived ovarian cancer cells (pdOVCs) and a Patient Derived Xenograft (PDX), respectively. CIK were efficiently generated (48 fold medianex vivoexpansion) from EOC patients; pdOVCs lines (n = 9) were successfully generated from metastatic ascites; the expression of CIK target molecules by pdOVC confirmed pre and post treatmentin vitrowith carboplatin. The results indicate that patient-derived CIK effectively killed autologous pdOVCsin vitro. Such intense activity was maintained against a subset of pdOVC that survivedin vitrotreatment with carboplatin. Moreover, CIK antitumor activity and tumor homing was confirmedin vivowithin an EOC PDX model. Our preliminary data suggest that CIK are active in platinum resistant ovarian cancer models and should be therefore further investigated as a new therapeutic option in this extremely challenging setting.
The voltage-gated potassium channel Shaker promotes sleep via thermosensitive GABA transmission
Authors: Kim Ji-hyung , Ki Yoonhee , Lee Hoyeon , Hur Moon Seong , Baik Bukyung , Hur Jin-Hoe , Nam Dougu , Lim Chunghun
Published: April 2020

Genes and neural circuits coordinately regulate animal sleep. However, it remains elusive how these endogenous factors shape sleep upon environmental changes. Here, we demonstrate that Shaker (Sh)-expressing GABAergic neurons projecting onto dorsal fan-shaped body (dFSB) regulate temperature-adaptive sleep behaviors in Drosophila. Loss of Sh function suppressed sleep at low temperature whereas light and high temperature cooperatively gated Sh effects on sleep. Sh depletion in GABAergic neurons partially phenocopied Sh mutants. Furthermore, the ionotropic GABA receptor, Resistant to dieldrin (Rdl), in dFSB neurons acted downstream of Sh and antagonized its sleep-promoting effects. In fact, Rdl inhibited the intracellular cAMP signaling of constitutively active dopaminergic synapses onto dFSB at low temperature. High temperature silenced GABAergic synapses onto dFSB, thereby potentiating the wake-promoting dopamine transmission. We propose that temperature-dependent switching between these two synaptic transmission modalities may adaptively tune the neural property of dFSB neurons to temperature shifts and reorganize sleep architecture for animal fitness.
Dynamic nuclear polarization and ESR hole burning in As doped silicon
Authors: Järvinen J. , Zvezdov D. , Ahokas J. , Sheludiakov S. , Lehtonen L. , Vasiliev S. , Vlasenko L. , Ishikawa Y. , Fujii Y.
Published: April 2020

Electron decoupling effect on Overhauser DNP, solid effect DNP and spin diffusion are measured with EPR in As doped silicon.
To switch or not to switch – a machine learning approach for ferroelectricity
Authors: Neumayer Sabine M. , Jesse Stephen , Velarde Gabriel , Kholkin Andrei L. , Kravchenko Ivan , Martin Lane W. , Balke Nina , Maksymovych Peter
Published: April 2020

The introduced two-dimensional representation of two-parameter signal dependence allows for clear interpretation and classification of the measured signal upon using machine learning methods.
Structural characterization of fibrous synthetic hydrogels using fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Vandaele Johannes , Louis Boris , Liu Kaizheng , Camacho Rafael , Kouwer Paul H. J. , Rocha Susana
Published: April 2020

The structural features of the matrix surrounding the cells play a crucial role in regulating their behavior.
The fabrication of IMo6@iPAF-1 as an enzyme mimic in heterogeneous catalysis for oxidative desulfurization under O2 or air
Authors: Li Yue , Song Jian , Jiang Mengting , Bawa Mbage , Wang Xiaohong , Tian Yuyang , Zhu Guangshan
Published: April 2020

Na5[IMo6O24]·3H2O and a porous aromatic framework (iPAF-1) were used to build an off-the-shelf building material (IMo6@iPAF-1) to realize the highly efficient oxidation of organic sulfurs like oxygenase.
Rapid on-site and naked-eye detection of common nitro pesticides with ionic liquids
Authors: Kovida  , Sharma Vikas , Koner Apurba Lal
Published: April 2020

Rapid ‘in-field’ detection of environmentally hazardous organophosphorus and nitro-containing pesticides is highly essential due to the lethal effects caused by the inhibition of the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE).
Long-term delivery of alendronate through an injectable tetra-PEG hydrogel to promote osteoporosis therapy
Authors: Li Dawei , Zhou Jin , Zhang Mingming , Ma Yuanzheng , Yang Yanyu , Han Xue , Wang Xing
Published: April 2020

An alendronate-loaded tetra-PEG hydrogel, as an injectable and effective drug carrier, regulates the optimized release of therapeutic cargoes to promote osteoporosis therapy and bone regeneration.
Consecutive 5′- and 3′-amide linkages stabilise antisense oligonucleotides and elicit an efficient RNase H response
Authors: Epple Sven , Thorpe Cameron , Baker Ysobel R. , El-Sagheer Afaf H. , Brown Tom
Published: April 2020

The combination of amide coupling with standard oligonucleotide synthesis enables assembly of reduced charge chimeric gapmer antisense oligonucleotides that trigger an efficient RNase H response while improving serum lifetime and cellular uptake.
Unprecedented morphology control of gas phase cocrystal growth using multi zone heating and tailor made additives
Authors: O’Malley Ciarán , Erxleben Andrea , Kellehan Seamus , McArdle Patrick
Published: April 2020

Cocrystallization from the gas phase in the presence of tailor-made additives proceeds with highly effective morphology control.
A tetranuclear nickel cluster isolated in multiple high-valent states
Authors: Jacob Samuel I. , Douair Iskander , Wu Guang , Maron Laurent , Ménard Gabriel
Published: April 2020

An all Ni(iii) tetranuclear cluster is isolated. Metal-centered oxidations are proposed for it and its mixed-valent congeners, supported by crystallographic, spectroscopic, and computational methods.
Label-free and near-zero-background-noise photoelectrochemical assay of methyltransferase activity based on a Bi2S3/Ti3C2 Schottky junction
Authors: Fu Yamin , Ding Feng , Chen Jinhua , Liu Mengyue , Zhang Xiaohua , Du Cuicui , Si Shihui
Published: April 2020

Based on Bi2S3/Ti3C2 nanosheets, a label-free photoelectrochemical sensing platform with near-zero background noise was developed for M.SssI methyltransferase activity assay.
A nitroreductase-activatable near-infrared theranostic photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy under mild hypoxia
Authors: Zheng Jing , Liu Yongzhuo , Song Fengling , Jiao Long , Wu Yingnan , Peng Xiaojun
Published: April 2020

In this study, a near-infrared (NIR) theranostic photosensitizer was developed based on a heptamethine aminocyanine dye with a long-lived triplet state.
Biomineralized nanosilica-based organelles endow living yeast cells with non-inherent biological functions
Authors: Chang Yi , Liu Tingting , Liu Peng , Meng Lili , Li Shujun , Guo Yuming , Yang Lin , Ma Xiaoming
Published: April 2020

Constructing engineered yeast cells (EYCs) by building intracellular silica nanoparticles has been achieved based on a biomimetic strategy. The intracellular SiO2nanoparticles could act as artificial organelles to make living EYCs intelligent.
The different magnetic relaxation behaviors in [Fe(CN)6]3− or [Co(CN)6]3− bridged 3d–4f heterometallic compounds
Authors: Wang Ruirui , Wang Haili , Wang Juan , Bai Feifei , Ma Yue , Li Licun , Wang Qinglun , Zhao Bin , Cheng Peng
Published: April 2020

For the isomorphic tetranuclear 3d–4f compounds constructed by [M(CN)6]3− linking LnIII-Schiff-base units, the diamagnetic CoIII ions in the system could suppress QTM effectively and obtain a field-induced SMMs behavior.
Structural similarity in chiral-achiral multi-component crystals
Authors: Scowen Ian J. , Alomar Taghrid S. , Munshi Tasnim , Seaton Colin C.
Published: April 2020

Understanding the structural similarities between co-crystals formed with racemic mixture and enantiopure chiral components with an achiral co-former.
An X-shaped cyano–carbonyl interaction on the polar surface of (cyanoacetyl)hydrazones
Authors: Zhang Zhenfeng
Published: April 2020

An X-shaped CN⋯CO interaction, which plays a critical role in dictating the molecule conformation and crystal packing patterns, has been found to occur on the polar surface of (cyanoacetyl)hydrazones, and is rationalized by density functional theory calculations.
Monolayer Bi2Se3−xTex: novel two-dimensional semiconductors with excellent stability and high electron mobility
Authors: Liu Yifan , Xu Yuanfeng , Ji Yanju , Zhang Hao
Published: April 2020

The bandgaps for monolayers Bi2Se3, Bi2Se2Te and Bi2SeTe2 decrease under moderate strains ranging from −4% to 10%, and the predicted electron mobilities are high, reaching 2708 cm2 V−1 s−1 for Bi2SeTe2.
Robust spin manipulation in 2D organometallic Kagome lattices: a first-principles study
Authors: Wang Peng , Jiang Xue , Hu Jun , Wang Biao , Zhou Tingwei , Yuan Hongkuan , Zhao Jijun
Published: April 2020

Room temperature ferromagnetic spintronic materials are screened out in 2D metal organic frameworks with Kagome lattices.
Elucidation of the role of guanidinium incorporation in single-crystalline MAPbI3 perovskite on ion migration and activation energy
Authors: Mahapatra Apurba , Runjhun Rashmi , Nawrocki Jan , Lewiński Janusz , Kalam Abul , Kumar Pawan , Trivedi Suverna , Tavakoli Mohammad Mahdi , Prochowicz Daniel , Yadav Pankaj
Published: April 2020

We have studied the effect of guanidinium incorporation in a single-crystalline MAPbI3 perovskite on ion migration using temperature-dependent electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
Pressure-induced structural transformations and new polymorphs in BiVO4
Authors: Cheng Xuerui , Guan Jiwen , Jiang Liying , Zhang Huanjun , Wang Pan , Adeniyi Adebayo O. , Yao Yansun , Su Lei , Song Yang
Published: April 2020

BiVO4 exhibits a rich structural polymorphism under high pressure where both fergusonite- and zircon-type BiVO4 transform to scheelite and β-fergusonite structures upon compression.
A high-performance histidine-functionalized MWCNT-GONR/Co–Ni LDH flower cluster structural composite via a microwave synthesis for supercapacitors
Authors: Qiu Hengrui , Sun Xuejiao , An Shengli , Lan Dawei , Cui Jinlong , Zhang Yongqiang , He Wenxiu
Published: April 2020

A flower cluster structural histidine-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube-graphene oxide nanoribbon/Co–Ni LDH (His-MW/LDH) composite was synthesized via the microwave method.
Impacts of hydrogen bonding interactions with Np(v/vi)O2Cl4 complexes: vibrational spectroscopy, redox behavior, and computational analysis
Authors: Pyrch Mikaela M. , Bjorklund Jennifer L. , Williams James M. , Parr IV Daniel L. , Mason Sara E. , Leddy Johna , Forbes Tori Z.
Published: April 2020

Crystallization of neptunyl(v) tetrachlorides over neptunyl(vi) species occurs simultaneously with charge assisted hydrogen bonding in our solid state materials, which we explored by DFT calculations, cyclic voltammograms, and Raman spectroscopy.
Oxidative addition of activated aryl-carboxylates to Pd(0): divergent reactivity dependant on temperature and structure
Authors: Becica Joseph , Gaube Gregory , Sabbers William A. , Leitch David C.
Published: April 2020

Strong C–O bonds in pyrone and coumarin esters can undergo oxidative addition to Pd(0), with the reaction conditions and substrate structure controlling the outcome.
Distribution and leaching behavior of organophosphorus and brominated flame retardants in soil in Chengdu
Authors: Liao Ruoying , Jiang Jingyan , Li Yiwen , Gan Zhiwei , Su Shijun , Ding Sanglan , Li Zhi , Hou Lin
Published: April 2020

29 surface farmland soil samples were collected to investigate the spatial distribution and composition characteristics of 13 organophosphorus flame retardants, 11 polybrominated diphenyl esters and 8 novel brominated flame retardants.
Degradation of poly(ethylene terephthalate) catalyzed by metal-free choline-based ionic liquids
Authors: Liu Yachan , Yao Xiaoqian , Yao Haoyu , Zhou Qing , Xin Jiayu , Lu Xingmei , Zhang Suojiang
Published: April 2020

Glycolysis of PET is a prospective way for degradation of PET to its monomer bis(hydroxyethyl)terephthalate (BHET) which can be polymerized again to form new qualified PET materials, and hence provides possibilities for a permanent loop recycling.
ChemoselectiveO-formyl andO-acyl protection of alkanolamines, phenoxyethanols and alcohols catalyzed by nickel(ii) and copper(ii)-catalysts
Authors: Sonawane Rahul B. , Sonawane Swapnali R. , Rasal Nishant K. , Jagtap Sangeeta V.
Published: April 2020

A crucial chemoselectiveO-formyl andO-acyl protection of alkanolamines, phenoxyethanols, and alcohols in the presence of amines catalyzed by Ni(ii) and Cu(ii) complexes with 8-hydroxyquinoline in a homogeneous medium is achieved.
Fluorescence-based sorting of Caenorhabditis elegans via acoustofluidics
Authors: Zhang Jinxin , Hartman Jessica H. , Chen Chuyi , Yang Shujie , Li Qi , Tian Zhenhua , Huang Po-Hsun , Wang Lin , Meyer Joel N. , Huang Tony Jun
Published: April 2020

Acoustofluidic sorting of Caenorhabditis elegans in a high throughput manner.
A new polymer lab-on-a-chip (LOC) based on a microfluidic capillary flow assay (MCFA) for detecting unbound cortisol in saliva
Authors: T. U. Vinitha , Ghosh Sthitodhi , Milleman Alexander , Nguyen Thinh , Ahn Chong H.
Published: April 2020

A new polymer lab-on-a-chip with on-chip dried reagents for microfluidic capillary flow assay (MCFA) detection of unbound cortisol in saliva.
Selective oxidation of aniline into azoxybenzene catalyzed by Nb-peroxo@iron oxides at room temperature
Authors: Lima André L. D. , Fajardo Humberto V. , Nogueira André E. , Pereira Márcio C. , Oliveira Luiz C. A. , de Mesquita João Paulo , Silva Adilson C.
Published: April 2020

Nb-peroxo@iron oxides show high selectivity and activity in aniline conversion to azoxybenzene.
Synthesis of 3-halochromones with simple KX halogen sources enabled by in situ halide oxidation
Authors: Lin Yan , Wan Jie-Ping , Liu Yunyun
Published: April 2020

An in situ oxidation strategy for generating molecular halogen has been developed for the synthesis of 3-halochromones by employing simple potassium halides as halogen sources.
Detection of 3,4-diaminotoluene based on Sr0.3Pb0.7TiO3/CoFe2O4 core/shell nanocomposite via an electrochemical approach
Authors: Abou Hammad Ali B. , Elzwawy Amir , Mansour A. M. , Alam M. M. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Karim Mohammad Razaul , Rahman Mohammed M. , El Nahrawy Amany M.
Published: April 2020

We reported a scalable sol–gel method for the preparation of Sr0.3Pb0.7TiO3/CoFe2O4 core–shell magnetic nanocomposite with a finely controlled shell and evaluated its efficiency as an electrochemical sensor for the selective detection of 3,4-diaminotoluene.
Wafer-scale 2D PtTe2 layers for high-efficiency mechanically flexible electro-thermal smart window applications
Authors: Okogbue Emmanuel , Ko Tae-Jun , Han Sang Sub , Shawkat Mashiyat Sumaiya , Wang Mengjing , Chung Hee-Suk , Oh Kyu Hwan , Jung Yeonwoong
Published: April 2020

Wafer-scale 2D PtTe2 layers exhibit superior electro-thermal properties suitable for smart window applications.
In-MOF-derived ultrathin heteroatom-doped carbon nanosheets for improving oxygen reduction
Authors: Huang Qi , Guo Yuanyuan , Wang Xian , Chai Lulu , Ding Junyang , Zhong Li , Li Ting-Ting , Hu Yue , Qian Jinjie , Huang Shaoming
Published: April 2020

Two types of discrete complexes have been encapsulated in InOF-24 by impregnation method, and are then subjected to pyrolysis with a conversion to the porous carbon material (InFeCo@CNS900).
TEMPO catalyzed oxidative dehydrogenation of hydrazobenzenes to azobenzenes
Authors: Lv Haiping , Laishram Ronibala Devi , Yang Yong , Li Jiayan , Xu Dandan , Zhan Yong , Luo Yang , Su Zhimin , More Sagar , Fan Baomin
Published: April 2020

A metal-free direct oxidative dehydrogenation approach for the synthesis of azobenzenes from hydrazobenzenes has been developed by using TEMPO as an organocatalyst for the first time.
Post-polymerization modification of polymethacrylates enabled by keto–enol tautomerization
Authors: Easterling Charles P. , Coste Guilhem , Sanchez Jose E. , Fanucci Gail E. , Sumerlin Brent S.
Published: April 2020

We report a post-polymerization modification strategy to functionalize methacrylic copolymers through enol-ester transesterification.
An isocyanide ligand for the rapid quenching and efficient removal of copper residues after Cu/TEMPO-catalyzed aerobic alcohol oxidation and atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Szczepaniak Grzegorz , Piątkowski Jakub , Nogaś Wojciech , Lorandi Francesca , Yerneni Saigopalakrishna S. , Fantin Marco , Ruszczyńska Anna , Enciso Alan E. , Bulska Ewa , Grela Karol , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: April 2020

Three for the price of one: 1,4-bis(3-isocyanopropyl)piperazine allows for the removal of Cu impurities, can quench Cu-catalyzed reactions, and can prevent undesirable Glaser coupling.
Engineering plasticization resistant gas separation membranes using metal–organic nanocapsules
Authors: Wang Hongliang , Zhang Kexin , Ho Li Jerry Pui , Huang Jingyu , Yuan Biao , Zhang Chen , Yu Yi , Yang Yong , Lee Yongjin , Li Tao
Published: April 2020

Ultra-small metal–organic nanocapsules (MONCs) with open metal sites (OMSs) are used as multi-dentate nodes to form coordinative crosslinking networks with polymers.
Review and reproducibility of forming adsorbed layers from solvent washing of melt annealed films
Authors: Thees Michael F. , McGuire Jennifer A. , Roth Connie B.
Published: April 2020

Efforts to reproduce the “Guiselin’s experiment” procedure findshads(t) curves to be far less reliable than implied in the literature, being strongly dependent on solvent washing conditions, consistent with how adsorption in solution is understood.
Plasmonically driven photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity of a Pt-functionalized Au@CeO2 core–shell catalyst under visible light
Authors: Van Dao Dung , Nguyen Thuy T. D. , Le Thanh Duc , Kim Seung-Hyeon , Yang Jin-Kyu , Lee In-Hwan , Yu Yeon-Tae
Published: April 2020

Plasmonically driven photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity of a Pt-functionalized Au@CeO2 core–shell catalyst under visible light was insightfully investigated for the first time.
An iron-based polyanionic cathode for potassium storage with high capacity and excellent cycling stability
Authors: He Haiyan , Yao Wenjiao , Tunmee Sarayut , Zhou Xiaolong , Ji Bifa , Wu Nanzhong , Song Tianyi , Kidkhunthod Pinit , Tang Yongbing
Published: April 2020

KLi3Fe(C2O4)3@C is developed as a positive electrode for potassium-ion storage with high stability and long cyclability.
Identifying Raman modes of Sb2Se3 and their symmetries using angle-resolved polarised Raman spectra
Authors: Fleck Nicole , Hobson Theodore D. C. , Savory Christopher N. , Buckeridge John , Veal Tim D. , Correia Maria R. , Scanlon David O. , Durose Ken , Jäckel Frank
Published: April 2020

Vibrational symmetry assignments using Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory on oriented crystals also enabling orientation optimisation of thin films.
An efficient medium-bandgap nonfullerene acceptor for organic solar cells
Authors: Liu Qishi , Jin Ke , Li Wenting , Xiao Zuo , Cheng Ming , Yuan Yongbo , Shi Shengwei , Jin Zhiwen , Hao Feng , Yang Shangfeng , Ding Liming
Published: April 2020

A medium-bandgap nonfullerene acceptor IBCT was developed, delivering 11.26% and 15.25% power conversion efficiencies in single-junction and tandem solar cells, respectively.
π-Extended chalcogenoviologens with stable radical state enable enhanced visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution and static/dynamic electrochromic displays
Authors: Li Guoping , Song Ruitong , Ma Wenqiang , Liu Xu , Li Yushuo , Rao Bin , He Gang
Published: April 2020

π-Extended chalcogenoviologens with a stable radical state were synthesized and used in enhancing the visible-light-driven photochromism/hydrogen evolution and static/dynamic electrochromic displays.
Fluorinated porphyrin-based theranostics for dual imaging and chemo-photodynamic therapy
Authors: Zhang Huaibin , Bo Shaowei , Zeng Kai , Wang Jie , Li Yu , Yang Zhigang , Zhou Xin , Chen Shizhen , Jiang Zhong-Xing
Published: April 2020

A modular strategy facilitates the convenient and standardized preparation of multifunctional theranostics for cancer therapy.
Optically and electrically modulated printed carbon nanotube synaptic transistors with a single input terminal and multi-functional output characteristics
Authors: Shao Lin , Li Min , Wu Peisong , Wang Fang , Chen Shulin , Hu Weida , Wang Hua , Cui Zheng , Zhao Jianwen
Published: April 2020

A synaptic transistor with a single input terminal can mimick important high neural activities by modulating optical and electrical stimulations.
Commentary on: The potency of lncRNA MALAT1/miR-155 in altering asthmatic Th1/Th2 balance by modulation of CTLA4
Authors: Foronjy Robert
Published: April 2020

Asthma is a common, allergic respiratory disorder affecting over 350 million people worldwide. One of the key features of asthma is skewing of CD4+ cells toward Th2 responses. This promotes the production of cytokines like IL-4 that induce IgE production resulting in the hypersecretion of mucus and airway smooth muscle contraction. Understanding the factors that favor Th2 expansion in asthma would provide important insights into the underlying pathogenesis of this disorder. Asthma research has focused on signaling pathways that control the transcription of key asthma-related genes. However, increasing evidence shows that post-transcriptional factors also determine CD4+ cell fate and the enhancement of allergic airway responses. A recent paper published by Liang et al. (Bioscience Reports (2020) 40, https://doi.org/10.1042/BSR20190397) highlights a novel role for the long non-coding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in Th2 development in asthma. MALAT1 modulates several biological processes including alternative splicing, epigenetic modification and gene expression. It is one of the most highly expressed lncRNAs in normal tissues and MALAT1 levels correlate with poor clinical outcomes in cancer. The mechanisms of action of MALAT1 in tumor progression and metastasis remain unclear and even less is known about its effects in inflammatory disease states like asthma. The work of Liang et al. demonstrates heightened MALAT1 expression in asthma and further shows that this lncRNA targets miR-155 to promote Th2 differentiation in this disease. This insight sets the stage for future studies to examine how MALAT1 manipulation could deter allergic immune responses in asthmatic airways.
Circular RNA hsa_circ_0072309 inhibits non-small cell lung cancer progression by sponging miR-580-3p
Authors: Pang Wenguang , Huang Fengliu , Zhang Xin , Ye Min , Huang Yanming , Huang Xiufang , Pang Jingzhuo , Cai Chengjie , Wang Zheng
Published: April 2020

Objective: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) continues to top the list of cancer mortalities worldwide. Early diagnosis and therapeutic interventions targeting NSCLC is becoming the world’s significant challenge. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are emerging as a group of potential cancer biomarkers.

Materials and methods: Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was employed to examine the expression of circ_0072309 in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8), wound healing and Transwell assays were used to analyze cell proliferation, migration and invasion in A549 and H1299 cells. The relationship between circ_0072309 and miR-580-3 was analyzed by Luciferase reporter and RNA pull down assays.

Results: We screened circ_0072309 from Gene Expression Omnibus and found that circ_0072309 was lowly expressed in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. The transfection of circ_0072309-overexpressing vector significantly suppressed the cell proliferation, migration and invasion in A549 and H1299 cells. We predicted that miR-580-3p is a target of circ_0072309 by using publicly available bioinformatic algorithms Circinteractome tool and confirmed that circ_0072309 directly bound to miR-580-3p. Furthermore, the addition of miR-580-3p mitigated the blockage of cell proliferation, migration and invasion induced by circ_0072309.

Conclusions: These data showed that circ_0072309 inhibits the progression of NSCLC progression via blocking the expression of miR-580-3p. These findings revealed the anti-tumor role of circ_0072309 during the development of NSCLC and provided a novel diagnostic biomarker and potential therapy for NSCLC.
Tripartite motif containing 35 contributes to the proliferation, migration, and invasion of lung cancer cellsin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Zhang Jingtao , Xu Zihao , Yu Boyao , Xu Jiatang , Yu Bentong
Published: April 2020

The tripartite motif (TRIM) family is a family of proteins with highly conserved domains. Previous researches have suggested that the members of TRIM family proteins played a crucial role in cancer development and progression. Our study explored the relationship between TRIM35 and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The study showed that the expression of TRIM35 was increased in NSCLC samples, and patients with high expression of TRIM35 had a poor clinical prognosis. Overexpression of TRIM35 in NSCLC cell line H460 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, knockdown of TRIM35 produced an opposite result in A549 and H1299 cell lines. In vivo study further confirmed that overexpression of TRIM35 promoted tumor formation. The RNA-seq analysis suggested that TRIM35 might promote lung cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion by regulating cancer-associated functions and signaling pathways. Hence, we identified TRIM35 played a significant role in tumoral growth and was a potential diagnosis and prognosis target for lung cancer.
Fundamental Frequency Variations Across the Menstrual Cycle and the Use of an Oral Contraceptive Pill
Authors: Lã Filipa M. B. , Polo Nuria
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Concentrations of sex steroid hormones—estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone—have been associated with premenstrual and menstrual vocal symptoms. However, the extent to which these symptoms may be reflected on acoustical features of the voice is still debated. This study investigates variations in fundamental frequency (
f
o
) and related parameters in connected speech across phases of the menstrual cycle and during the use of a combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP).

Method

Electrolaryngographic recordings were made, and blood samples were collected at three different phases of the menstrual cycle—menstrual, follicular, and luteal—for placebo and OCP use. These two conditions were blindly and randomly allocated in the study. Speaking
f
o
(SFF), SFF standard deviation, SFF rate of change, SFF slope, maximum and minimum
f
o
, and
f
o
range were extracted for nine healthy females while reading a phrase from the Rainbow Passage. Concentrations of sex hormones were analyzed in serum. Nonparametric statistical tests were carried out to assess differences between phases and conditions.

Results

SFF, its standard deviation, and maximum
f
o
were significantly different between phases of the menstrual cycle for placebo use only. Menstrual phase showed the lowest values. Maximum and minimum
f
o
were significantly different between placebo and OCP use for menstrual and follicular phases, respectively.

Conclusions

Fluctuations in sex steroid hormones across the menstrual cycle alter
f
o
in speech more than a particular hormonal concentration. OCP use seems to have a stabilizing effect on the voice relative to
f
o
and related parameters in speech.
Near-infrared observations of the gas structure and kinematics in the circumnuclear region of NGC 1672
Authors: Fazeli Nastaran , Eckart Andreas , Busch Gerold , Yttergren Madeleine , Combes Françoise , Misquitta Persis , Straubmeier Christian
Published: April 2020

We present our near-infrared, integral-field spectroscopy observations of the central 550 × 550 pc2(10″ × 10″) of the local galaxy NGC 1672. Our aim is to investigate the morphology and kinematics of gas and stars to probe evidence for feeding and feedback phenomena. For this purpose the near-infrared wavelength regime and integral-field unit technique provide a vast amount of useful information. The narrow emission line ratios suggest that the galaxy hosts a low-luminosity active galactic nucleus. From theMBH − σ*relation, we find a black hole mass of a few 107 M⊙. The total reservoir of hot molecular and ionised gas is estimated, using flux of H2and Brγemission lines, to be 258M⊙and 2.3 × 106 M⊙respectively. The most striking feature in the emission line flux maps is the star-forming ring at a radius of ∼3″. The stellar and gaseous kinematics both show a rotation pattern in a disc that is blue-shifted in the north-west and red-shifted in the south-east. However, unlike the stellar kinematics, gas kinematics show various complexities, such as higher amplitudes in the central region (within the star-forming ring). The molecular gas velocity-field map shows deviations from pure disc motion in the form of an S-shaped zero-velocity line. In particular the position angle of the zero-velocity line changes in the central arcsecond, resembling the decoupled nuclear disc or molecular torus found in CO(3–2). There is an offset of 0.″5 between the nuclear continuum barycentre and kinematic centre of molecular gas towards the north-west. The velocity field of Brγemitting gas on the other hand, is highly red-shifted in the centre and offset from the continuum emission peak by about 1″. Investigating the spectra of this region we detect a doubled-horn Brγemission line in the nucleus and north-west. This region is also luminous in radio 3 cm emission connecting the nucleus to the star-forming ring.