bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super modules-based active QR codes for smart trackability and IoT: a responsive-banknotes case study
Authors: Ramalho João F. C. B. , Correia Sandra F. H. , Fu Lianshe , Dias Lília M. S. , Adão Pedro , Mateus Paulo , Ferreira Rute A. S. , André Paulo S.
Published: June 2020

The general use of smartphones assigns additional relevance to QR codes as a privileged tool to the Internet of Things (IoT). Crucial for QR codes is the evolution to IoT-connected smart tags with enhanced storage capacity and secure accesses. Using the concept of super-modules (s-modules) built from adjacent spatial multiplexed modules with regular geometrical shapes, assisted by colour multiplexing, we modelled and design a single QR code with, at least, the triple storage capacity of an analogous size black/white QR code, acting as a smart-tag ensuring restrict access and trackability. The s-modules are printed using luminescent low-cost and eco-friendly inks based on organic-inorganic hybrids modified by lanthanides with multiplexed colour emission in the orthogonal RGB space. The access to the restrict information is attained only under UV irradiation and encrypted for secure transmission. The concept of active QR codes for smart trackability and IoT was materialised through the development of a free friendly-user mobile app.
Discharge profile of a zinc-air flow battery at various electrolyte flow rates and discharge currents
Authors: Abbasi Ali , Hosseini Soraya , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat , Cheacharoen Rongrong , Olaru Sorin , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, due to global warming stemming from excessive use of fossil fuel, there is considerable interest in promoting renewable energy sources. However, because of the intermittent nature of these energy sources, efficient energy storage systems are needed. In this regard, zinc-air flow batteries (ZAFBs) are seen as having the capability to fulfill this function. In flow batteries, the electrolyte is stored in external tanks and circulated through the cell. This study provides the requisite experimental data for parameter estimation as well as model validation of ZAFBs. Each data set includes: current (mA), voltage (V), capacity (mAh), specific capacity (mAh/g), energy (Wh), specific energy (mWh/g) and discharge time (h:min:s.ms). Discharge data involved forty experiments with discharge current in the range of 100–200 mA, and electrolyte flow rates in the range of 0–140 ml/min. Such data are crucial for the modelling and theoretical/experimental analysis of ZAFBs.
Evidence for a role of RUNX1 as recombinase cofactor for TCRβ rearrangements and pathological deletions in ETV6-RUNX1 ALL
Authors: Seitz V. , Kleo K. , Dröge A. , Schaper S. , Elezkurtaj S. , Bedjaoui N. , Dimitrova L. , Sommerfeld A. , Berg E. , von der Wall E. , Müller U. , Joosten M. , Lenze D. , Heimesaat M. M. , Baldus C. , Zinser C. , Cieslak A. , Macintyre E. , Stocking C. , Hennig S. , Hummel M.
Published: June 2020

T-cell receptor gene beta (TCRβ) gene rearrangement represents a complex, tightly regulated molecular mechanism involving excision, deletion and recombination of DNA during T-cell development. RUNX1, a well-known transcription factor for T-cell differentiation, has recently been described to act in addition as a recombinase cofactor for TCRδ gene rearrangements. In this work we employed a RUNX1 knock-out mouse model and demonstrate by deep TCRβ sequencing, immunostaining and chromatin immunoprecipitation that RUNX1 binds to the initiation site of TCRβ rearrangement and its homozygous inactivation induces severe structural changes of the rearranged TCRβ gene, whereas heterozygous inactivation has almost no impact. To compare the mouse model results to the situation in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) we analyzed TCRβ gene rearrangements in T-ALL samples harboring heterozygous Runx1 mutations. Comparable to the Runx1+/− mouse model, heterozygous Runx1 mutations in T-ALL patients displayed no detectable impact on TCRβ rearrangements. Furthermore, we reanalyzed published sequence data from recurrent deletion borders of ALL patients carrying an ETV6-RUNX1 translocation. RUNX1 motifs were significantly overrepresented at the deletion ends arguing for a role of RUNX1 in the deletion mechanism. Collectively, our data imply a role of RUNX1 as recombinase cofactor for both physiological and aberrant deletions.
Author Correction: Characterization of the most frequent ATP7B mutation causing Wilson disease in hepatocytes from patient induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Parisi Silvia , Polishchuk Elena V. , Allocca Simona , Ciano Michela , Musto Anna , Gallo Maria , Perone Lucia , Ranucci Giusy , Iorio Raffaele , Polishchuk Roman S. , Bonatti Stefano
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Magneto-plasmonic nanostars for image-guided and NIR-triggered drug delivery
Authors: Tomitaka Asahi , Arami Hamed , Ahmadivand Arash , Pala Nezih , McGoron Anthony J. , Takemura Yasushi , Febo Marcelo , Nair Madhavan
Published: June 2020

Smart multifunctional nanoparticles with magnetic and plasmonic properties assembled on a single nanoplatform are promising for various biomedical applications. Owing to their expanding imaging and therapeutic capabilities in response to external stimuli, they have been explored for on-demand drug delivery, image-guided drug delivery, and simultaneous diagnostic and therapeutic (i.e. theranostic) applications. In this study, we engineered nanoparticles with unique morphology consisting of a superparamagnetic iron oxide core and star-shaped plasmonic shell with high-aspect-ratio gold branches. Strong magnetic and near-infrared (NIR)-responsive plasmonic properties of the engineered nanostars enabled multimodal quantitative imaging combining advantageous functions of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic particle imaging (MPI), photoacoustic imaging (PAI), and image-guided drug delivery with a tunable drug release capacity. The model drug molecules bound to the core-shell nanostars were released upon NIR illumination due to the heat generation from the core-shell nanostars. Moreover, our simulation analysis showed that the specific design of the core-shell nanostars demonstrated a pronounced multipolar plasmon resonance, which has not been observed in previous reports. The multimodal imaging and NIR-triggered drug release capabilities of the proposed nanoplatform verify their potential for precise and controllable drug release with different applications in personalized medicine.
Novel keratinolytic enzymes, discovered from a talented and efficient bacterial keratin degrader
Authors: Huang Yuhong , Łężyk Mateusz , Herbst Florian-Alexander , Busk Peter Kamp , Lange Lene
Published: June 2020

Huge quantities of keratinaceous waste are a substantial and almost totally unexploited protein resource which could be upgraded for use as high value-added products by efficient keratinolytic enzymes. In this study, we found that Bacillus sp. 8A6 can efficiently degrade chicken feather after 24 h growth. According to phylogenetic analysis, the strain (formerly identified as Bacillus pumilus 8A6) belongs to the B. pumilus species clade but it is more closely related to B. safensis. Hotpep predicted 233 putative proteases from Bacillus sp. 8A6 genome. Proteomic analysis of culture broths from Bacillus sp. 8A6 cultured on chicken feathers or on a mixture of bristles and hooves showed high abundance of proteins with functions related to peptidase activity. Five proteases (one from family M12, one from family S01A, two from family S08A and one from family T3) and four oligopeptide and dipeptide binding proteins were highly expressed when Bacillus sp. 8A6 was grown in keratin media compared to LB medium. This study is the first to report that bacterial proteases in families M12, S01A and T3 are involved in keratin degradation together with proteases from family S08.
Stable solution of induced modulation instability
Authors: Guan Jingxin , Ren Zhanmei , Guo Qi
Published: June 2020

In this paper,we discussed the nonlinear evolution of modulation instability and the steady-state process of induced modulation instability in sine-oscillatory response nonlocal nonlinear media. With plane wave plus perturbation as initial conditions, we simulated the long-term evolution of modulation instability in the nonlocal nonlinear Schrodinger equation with sine-oscillatory response numerically. For the input of modulated wave, the approximate analytical solution of the stable solution of the equation is obtained under the assumption that only the fundamental wave and the first harmonic wave are present. For the input of modulated wave with arbitrary harmonic waves, we obtained the exact numerical solution of the stable solution of the induced modulation instability.
Satellite evidence for changes in the NO2 weekly cycle over large cities
Authors: Stavrakou T. , Müller J.-F. , Bauwens M. , Boersma K. F. , van Geffen J.
Published: June 2020

Anthropogenic activities, by far the largest source of NOx into the atmosphere, induce a weekly cycle of NO2 abundances in cities. Comprehensive analysis of the 2005–2017 OMI NO2 dataset reveals significant weekly cycles in 115 of the 274 cities considered. These results are corroborated by a full year of high-resolution TROPOMI NO2 observations. The OMI dataset permits us to identify trends in the weekly cycle resulting from NOx emissions changes. The data show a clear weakening of the weekly cycle over European and U.S. cities, an evolution attributed to the decline in anthropogenic emissions and the resulting growing importance of background NO2, whereas NO2 lifetime changes also play a minor role. In particular, the Sunday NO2 columns averaged over all U.S. cities are found to increase, relative to the weekly average, from 0.72 during 2005–2007 to 0.88 in 2015–2017. The opposite tendency is recorded in regions undergoing rapid emission growth. Multiyear simulations over the U.S. and the Middle East using the chemistry-transport model MAGRITTEv1.1 succeed in capturing the observed weekly cycles over the largest cities, as well as the observed long-term trends in the weekly cycle.
No relationship between the digit ratios (2D:4D) and salivary testosterone change: Study on men under an acute exercise
Authors: Kowal Marta , Sorokowski Piotr , Żelaźniewicz Agnieszka , Nowak Judyta , Orzechowski Sylwester , Żurek Grzegorz , Żurek Alina , Juszkiewicz Anna , Wojtycka Lidia , Sieniuć Wiktoria , Poniatowska Małgorzata , Tarnowska Karolina , Kowalska Kaja , Drabik Katarzyna , Łukaszek Patrycja , Krawczyk Krzysztof , Stefaniak Tadeusz , Danek Natalia
Published: June 2020

The digit ratio (2D:4D) is said to be a potential marker of exposure to prenatal sex steroids. Some studies suggest that the 2D:4D is also linked with the testosterone response to challenging situations due to organizational effect of prenatal hormonal milieu on adult endocrine functioning. However, up to date, there were only four studies (conducted on small samples) that examined the 2D:4D and the testosterone response to a challenging situation (i.e. physical exertion or aggressive context). Here, we examined the relationship between the 2D:4D and the testosterone change under an acute exercise among 97 men. We found that the digit ratios (the right 2D:4D, the left 2D:4D, and the right minus left 2D:4D) were neither predictors of pre-exercise testosterone, nor the change in testosterone level after a cycling task. Our results add a contradictory to previous studies evidence in a discussion on the links of the 2D:4D and the testosterone change.
Association of the methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase gene rs1801133 C677T variant with serum homocysteine levels, and the severity of coronary artery disease
Authors: Bouzidi Nadia , Hassine Majed , Fodha Hajer , Ben Messaoud Mejdi , Maatouk Faouzi , Gamra Habib , Ferchichi Salima
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to investigate whether the single nucleotide polymorphism C677T (rs1801133) of the methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene was associated with the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and circulating homocysteine (Hcy) levels in Tunisian population. 310 angiografically diagnosed CAD patients and 210 controls were enrolled in this study. The MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) polymorphism was genotyped, and the Hcy concentrations were measured. The severity of CAD was evaluated using the Gensini scoring system. Compared to the CC genotype, the TT genotype confers a higher risk for CAD severity with an OR = 9.07 and 95% CI = 3.78–21.8. The T allele was the predisposing allele for CAD and that it was probably associated with CAD severity. The area under the ROC curve for Hcy was 0.764 (95% CI 0.660 to 0.868, p = 0.001). The receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) for Hcy showed its useful prediction of CAD. Hcy levels were not significantly associated with CAD severity expressed by Gensini Score (GS). The MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) polymorphism influences circulating Hcy levels. The MTHFR C677T polymorphism and hyperhomocysteinemia could have an important role in the prediction of the presence and not the severity expressed by GS of CAD.
Subcarrier wave continuous variable quantum key distribution with discrete modulation: mathematical model and finite-key analysis
Authors: Samsonov E. , Goncharov R. , Gaidash A. , Kozubov A. , Egorov V. , Gleim A.
Published: June 2020

In this paper we report a continuous-variable quantum key distribution protocol using multimode coherent states generated on subcarrier frequencies of the optical spectrum. We propose a coherent detection scheme where power from a carrier wave is used as a local oscillator. We compose a mathematical model of the proposed scheme and perform its security analysis in the finite-size regime using fully quantum asymptotic equipartition property technique. We calculate a lower bound on the secret key rate for the system under the assumption that the quantum channel noise is negligible compared to detector dark counts, and an eavesdropper is restricted to collective attacks. Our calculation shows that the current realistic system implementation would allow distributing secret keys over channels with losses up to 9 dB.
Accuracy of Electrocardiography and Agreement with Echocardiography in the Diagnosis of Pediatric Left Atrial Enlargement
Authors: Ng Charis , Ahmad Attila , Budhram Dalton R. , He Mu , Balakrishnan Narayanaswamy , Mondal Tapas
Published: June 2020

Left atrial enlargement (LAE) is a marker for diastolic cardiac dysfunction. Echocardiograms are considered the gold-standard for diagnosis, but given their wider access and lower economic cost, electrocardiograms (ECGs) may be useful in identifying patients who would benefit from further investigation. This study investigates the utility of ECG criteria to diagnose LAE in pediatric patients. A retrospective chart review (n = 492) was conducted in patients whose echocardiograms demonstrated LAE by left atrial indexed diameter z-score ≥2.0 and/or increased left atrial to aortic root ratio at various cutoffs (≥1.4, ≥1.6, ≥1.8). ECG criteria studied included: (1) P wave ≥110 msec, (2) P mitrale ≥40 msec, in LII (3) terminal negative P wave deflection in lead V1 > 40 msec, and (4) P/PR segment >1.6 in lead II. Sensitivity, specificity, Cohen’s Kappa coefficient (κ), and ROC curves were calculated. A combination of P mitrale ≥40 msec and terminal negative P wave deflection in lead V1 > 40 msec yielded the greatest agreement (κ = 0.221, 95%CI 0.060–0.382), but all ECG criteria used to diagnose LAE had poor diagnostic value (AUC < 0.60). The present ECG criteria should not be used to diagnose LAE in the absence of an echocardiogram and findings should be considered in the context of clinical symptoms.
A nomogram to predict cadmium-induced renal tubular dysfunction
Authors: Wang Xinru , Chen Xin , He Weiming , Zhu Guoying , Jin Taiyi , Chen Xiao
Published: June 2020

Cadmium-induced renal dysfunction varies between individuals. It would be valuable to figure out those susceptible individuals or predict the risk of cadmium induced renal dysfunction. In the present study, we used a nomogram model to identify high-risk of cadmium-induced renal tubular dysfunction. 342 subjects living in low and moderately cadmium polluted areas were included in this study. The daily cadmium intake from food (FCd) was estimated using food survey. The cadmium in blood (BCd) and urine (UCd) were detected by using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Urinary β2Microglobulin (UBMG) was chosen as indicator of renal dysfunction. Logistic regression was used to select the independent risk factors for renal dysfunction. Bootstrap self-sampling and calibration curves were performed to quantify our modeling strategy. Age, sex, BCd and TCd were used to construct the nomogam in total population; age, BCd and TCd were adopted in women; age and BCd were used in men. The internal validation showed the C-index was 0.76 (95% 47 confidence interval (CI): 0.71–0.82) in total population, 0.74 (95% CI: 0.69–0.79) in men and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.72–0.84) in women. The area under the curve of the nomogram was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.71–0.83) in total population, 0.82(95% CI: 0.74–0.90) in women and 0.74(95% CI: 0.66–0.82) in men. Nomogram may be a rapid and simple risk assessment tool for predicting high-risk of renal tubular dysfunction in subjects exposed cadmium.
Author Correction: The transcriptional regulator NtrC controls glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase expression and polyhydroxybutyrate synthesis through NADPH availability in Herbaspirillum seropedicae
Authors: Sacomboio Euclides Nenga Manuel , Kim Edson Yu Sin , Ruchaud Correa Henrique Leonardo , Bonato Paloma , de Oliveira Pedrosa Fabio , de Souza Emanuel Maltempi , Chubatsu Leda Satie , Müller-Santos Marcelo
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Micro-Fabricated Presure Sensor Using 50 nm-Thick of Pd-Based Metallic Glass Freestanding Membrane
Authors: Van Toan Nguyen , Tuoi Truong Thi Kim , Tsai Yao-Chuan , Lin Yu-Ching , Ono Takahito
Published: June 2020

This paper reports on micro-fabricated pressure sensors based on a thin metallic glass membrane. The Pd66Cu4Si30 metallic glass material is deposited successfully by a sputter technique. An amorphous feature of the deposited film is confirmed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and the corresponding the selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The ultra-flat freestanding metallic glass membrane with 50 nm in thickness and 2 mm in circular diameter has been fabricated successfully. In addition, two kinds of micro-fabricated pressure sensor types, including itself membrane and additional metallic glass bar as piezoresistive sensing elements, are proposed and fabricated. A displacement of membrane can reach over 100 µm without any damage to membrane which is equivalent to over 0.7% of an elastic strain. Besides, the temperature coefficient of resistance of the Pd-based metallic glass thin film is extremely low 9.6 × 10−6 °C−1. This development of nano-thick metallic glass membrane possibly opens a new field of micro-fabricated devices with large displacement and enhanced sensing.
Effect of amniotic fluid stem cell transplantation on the recovery of bladder dysfunction in spinal cord-injured rats
Authors: Liang Ching-Chung , Shaw Sheng-Wen Steven , Ko Yu-Shien , Huang Yung-Hsin , Lee Tsong-Hai
Published: June 2020

The effects of human amniotic fluid stem cell (hAFSC) transplantation on bladder function and molecular changes in spinal cord-injured (SCI) rats were investigated. Four groups were studied: sham and SCI plus phosphate-buffered saline (SCI + PBS), human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells, and hAFSCs transplantation. In SCI + PBS rat bladders, cystometry showed increased peak voiding pressure, voiding volume, bladder capacity, residual volume, and number of non-voiding contractions, and the total elastin/collagen amount was increased but collagen concentration was decreased at days 7 and 28. Immunoreactivity and mRNA levels of IGF-1, TGF-β1, and β3-adrenoceptor were increased at days 7 and/or 28. M2 immunoreactivity and M3 mRNA levels of muscarinic receptor were increased at day 7. M2 immunoreactivity was increased, but M2/M3 mRNA and M3 immunoreactivity levels were decreased at day 28. Brain derived-neurotrophic factor mRNA was increased, but immunoreactivity was decreased at day 7. HEK293 cell transplantation caused no difference compared to SCI + PBS group. hAFSCs co-localized with neural cell markers and expressed BDNF, TGF-β1, GFAP, and IL-6. The present results showed that SCI bladders released IGF-1 and TGF-β1 to stimulate elastin and collagen for bladder wall remodelling, and hAFSC transplantation improved these changes, which involved the mechanisms of BDNF, muscarinic receptors, and β3-adrenoceptor expression.
Synthesis of diglycolic acid functionalized core-shell silica coated Fe3O4 nanomaterials for magnetic extraction of Pb(II) and Cr(VI) ions
Authors: Nawaz Tehreema , Zulfiqar Sonia , Sarwar Muhammad Ilyas , Iqbal Mudassir
Published: June 2020

Amine-terminated core-shell silica coated magnetite nanoparticles were functionalized with diglycolic acid for the first time to create acid moiety on the surface of the nanoparticles. The formation of magnetite nanoparticles was scrutinised through XRD, SEM, EDS, TEM, VSM and FTIR spectroscopy. The BET surface area of nano-sorbent was found to be 4.04 m2/g with pore size 23.68 nm. These nanomaterials were then utilized to remove the Pb(II) and Cr(VI) ions from their aqueous media and uptake of metal ions was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). A batch adsorption technique was applied to remove both ions at optimised pH and contact time with maximum adsorption efficiency for Pb(II) ions at pH 7 while for Cr(VI) ions at pH 3. Adsorption mechanism was studied using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms and equilibrium data fitted well for both the isotherms, showing complex nature of adsorption comprising both chemisorption as well as physio-sorption phenomena. The nanosorbents exhibited facile separation by applying external magnetic field due to the ferrimagnetic behaviour with 31.65 emu/g saturation magnetization. These nanosorbents were also found to be used multiple times after regeneration.
Photosynthetic and Chlorophyll Fluorescence Characteristics of Isodon rubescens (Hemsley) H. Hara
Authors: Zaiyou Jian , Xiuren Zhou , Jing Tian
Published: June 2020

The ecological and economic cultivation of Isodon rubescens is currently being carried out. The demand of I. rubescens for light intensity should be made clear to estimate whether the environmental conditions of an area are suitable for cultivating I. Rubescens and improve cultivation techniques. The photosynthetic and chlorophyll fluorescence characteristics of I. rubescens were determined with a Li-6400 photosynthesis system and PAM-2500 portable chlorophyll fluorescence apparatus. The results showed that there was no obvious midday depression of photosynthesis in I. rubescens leaves. The light compensation point and light saturation point of I. rubescens leaves were 21.83482 µmol·m−2·s−1 and 802.262 µmol·m−2·s−1, respectively. The CO2 compensation point and CO2 saturation point of I. rubescens leaves were 101.7199 µmol·mol−1 and 1674.514 µmol·mol−1, respectively. The maximal photochemical efficiency of photosystem II ((Fm-Fo)/Fm) in I. rubescens leaves reached 0.7. The electron transport rate of photosystem II in I. rubescens leaves reached 20 μmol electrons/(m2·s). I. rubescens can tolerate intense light above the light compensation point and utilize low light. I. rubescens leaves have a strong photoprotective capacity. I. rubescens can grow in both sunny and shady places. The most important factor affecting photosynthetic efficiency in I. rubescens leaves is the concentration of CO2 in air.
Predatory functional responses under increasing temperatures of two life stages of an invasive gecko
Authors: Haubrock Phillip J. , Cuthbert Ross N. , Veselý Lukáš , Balzani Paride , Baker Nathan Jay , Dick Jaimie T. A. , Kouba Antonín
Published: June 2020

The direct effects of temperature increases and differences among life-history might affect the impacts of native and invasive predators on recipient communities. Comparisons of functional responses can improve our understanding of underlying processes involved in altering species interaction strengths and may predict the effect of species invading new communities. Therefore, we investigated the functional responses of the mourning geckoLepidodactylus lugubris(Duméril & Bibron, 1836) to explore how temperature, body-size and prey density alter gecko predatory impacts in ecosystems. We quantified the functional responses of juvenile and adult geckos in single-predator experiments at 20, 23 and 26 °C. Both displayed saturating Type-II functional responses, but juvenile functional responses and the novel Functional Response Ratio were positively affected by temperature as juvenile attack rates (a) increased as a function of increased temperature. Handling times (h) tended to shorten at higher temperature for both predator stages. We demonstrate that the effects of temperature on functional responses of geckos differ across ontogeny, perhaps reflecting life-history stages prioritising growth and maturation or body maintenance. This indicates that temperature-dependent gecko predatory impacts will be mediated by population demographics. We advocate further comparisons of functional responses to understand the invasiveness and future predatory impacts of geckos, and other invasive species globally, as temperatures change.
Features of p53 protein distribution in the corneal epithelium and corneal tear film
Authors: Tendler Yevgeny , Panshin Alexander
Published: June 2020

Tumor suppressor protein p53 is the key factor in the regulation of cell proliferation. Its concentration is low in the cytoplasm of most cell types. However, in corneal epithelium cells, abnormally high p53 content is detected. The aim of the present study was to characterize p53 distribution in the corneal epithelium. For this purpose, immunohistochemistry, western blot analysis and electronic microscope examinations were performed. A low level of p53 was identified in the lens, iris and retina; by contrast, a significantly high concentration of this protein was observed in the corneal epithelium. In opposite, MDM2 was identified in the lens, iris and retina while it is completely absent in the corneal epithelium. In addition, we found a significant amount of exosomes and other microvesicles containing p53 in the corneal mucin layer. We thus hypothesize that a significantly high level of p53 was caused by a combination of absents of MDM2 in parallel with p53 microvesicles storage.
A feasibility study of conducting surveillance for swine pathogens in slurry from North Carolina swine farms
Authors: Bailey Emily S. , Borkenhagen Laura K. , Choi Jessica Y. , Greer Annette E. , Culhane Marie R. , Gray Gregory C.
Published: June 2020

Despite close contact between humans and animals on large scale farms, little to no infectious disease research is conducted at this interface. Our goal in this preliminary study was to explore if we could detect swine pathogens using a non-invasive, indirect approach through the study of swine slurry. From April to November 2018, 105 swine slurry samples were collected by farm personnel from waste pits at two sites on a swine farm in North Carolina. These samples were tested for DNA and RNA viruses using a real-time PCR and RT-PCR. Statistical analyses were performed to measure association between virus positive outcomes and potential predictors such as date of sample collection, weight of pigs, number of pigs in barn, temperature, and weather conditions. Overall, 86% of the samples had evidence of at least one of the targeted viruses. Ultimately, this study demonstrated the utility of conducting noninvasive surveillance for swine pathogens through the study of swine slurry. Such swine slurry surveillance may supplant the need to handle, restrain, and collect specimens directly from pigs thus providing an approach to emerging pathogen detection that appeals to the swine industry.
Incidence and seasonality of major ocular trauma: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Kwon Jin-woo , Choi Moon Young , Bae Jung Min
Published: June 2020

We designed this study to identify the epidemiological characteristics and trends of various types of ocular trauma in the population of the Republic of Korea. We conducted a nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional study using the Korean National Health Insurance claims database for January 2010 to December 2018. We compiled the monthly numbers of patients diagnosed with hyphema and those who received open reduction surgery due to orbital blowout fracture (BOF), primary closure of the cornea or sclera (PCCS), or intraocular foreign body (IOFB) removal. We obtained annual and monthly incidence rates, and differences according to age, sex, yearly trends, and seasonal variations. The incidence rate (per 100,000 person-years) was high in the order of hyphema (18.43), BOF (11.58), PCCS (1.99) and IOFB removal (0.39). Male predominance was evident in all types of major ocular trauma, but the age distribution varied with the type: hyphemas were most prevalent at 10–14 years of age, BOFs at 25–29 years of age, and open globe injuries (OGIs) at age 60 and older. Although all types of trauma showed significant seasonality, hyphemas (amplitude: 174.81) and BOFs (23.17) showed higher amplitudes compared to OGIs (PCCS: 11.96; IOFB removal: 6.72). While the incidence of blunt trauma injuries, including hyphemas and orbital BOFs, decreased steadily from 2010 to 2018, that of OGIs showed no remarkable change.
Nationwide patterns of hemorrhagic stroke among patients hospitalized with brain metastases: influence of primary cancer diagnosis and anticoagulation
Authors: Lee Victor , Jairam Vikram , Yu James B. , Park Henry S.
Published: June 2020

Brain metastases can contribute to a decreased quality of life for patients with cancer, often leading to malaise, neurologic dysfunction, or death. Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is an especially feared complication in patients with brain metastases given the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. We aim to characterize patients with cancer and brain metastases admitted to hospitals nationwide and identify factors associated with ICH. The 2016 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample (HCUP-NIS) was queried for all patients with cancer hospitalized with a diagnosis of brain metastases. Admissions with a primary or secondary diagnosis of ICH were further identified. Baseline differences in demographic, clinical, socioeconomic, and hospital-related characteristics between patients with and without ICH were assessed by chi-square, Mann–Whitney U, and ANOVA testing. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with ICH. Weighted frequencies were used to create national estimates for all data analysis. In 2016, a total 145,225 hospitalizations were associated with brain metastases, of which 4,145 (2.85%) had a concurrent diagnosis of ICH. Patients with ICH were more likely to have a longer length of stay (median 5 days vs 4 days, p < 0.001) and a higher cost of stay (median $14,241.14 vs $10,472.54, p  < 0.001). ICH was found to be positively associated with having a diagnosis of melanoma (odds ratio [OR] 5.01; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 3.50–7.61) and kidney cancer (OR 2.50; 95% CI 1.69–3.72). Patients on long-term anticoagulation had a higher risk of ICH (OR 1.49; CI 1.15–1.91). Approximately 3% of patients hospitalized with brain metastases also had a diagnosis of ICH, which was significantly associated with longer length of stay and cost. Patients with melanoma, kidney cancer, and on long-term anticoagulation had a higher risk of ICH. Physicians should consider the risks of anticoagulation carefully for patients with brain metastases, especially those with melanoma and kidney cancer.
Publisher Correction: Mutually suppressive roles of KMT2A and KDM5C in behaviour, neuronal structure, and histone H3K4 methylation
Authors: Vallianatos Christina N. , Raines Brynne , Porter Robert S. , Bonefas Katherine M. , Wu Michael C. , Garay Patricia M. , Collette Katie M. , Seo Young Ah , Dou Yali , Keegan Catherine E. , Tronson Natalie C. , Iwase Shigeki
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The role of hydrogen bond donor and water content on the electrochemical reduction of Ni2+ from solvents – an experimental and modelling study
Authors: Lukaczynska-Anderson Monika , Mamme Mesfin Haile , Ceglia Andrea , Van den Bergh Krista , De Strycker Joost , De Proft Frank , Terryn Herman , Ustarroz Jon
Published: June 2020

Water concentration and hydrogen bond donor have both a big influence in the coordination of Ni cations in deep eutectic solvents, and will therefore affect their electroreduction.
Evaporation of Ar/Kr mixtures on platinum surface: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Cai Shouyin , Li Qibin , Liu Chao , Zhang Lu
Published: June 2020

The evaporation of Ar/Kr mixtures on platinum surface at 150 K.
Probing the potential of metalla-N-heterocyclic carbenes towards activation of enthalpically strong bonds
Authors: Ghosh Bijoy , Phukan Ashwini K.
Published: June 2020

Density functional theory calculations predict that metalla-N-heterocyclic carbenes are ideal candidates for the activation of a range of small molecules.
Reversible and efficient SO2capture by a chemically stable MOF CAU-10: experiments and simulations
Authors: Zárate J. Antonio , Domínguez-Ojeda Eduardo , Sánchez-González Elí , Martínez-Ahumada Eva , López-Cervantes Valeria B. , Williams Daryl R. , Martis Vladimir , Ibarra Ilich A. , Alejandre José
Published: June 2020

CAU-10 is an efficient system for SO2adsorption, and its great recyclability is given by van der Waals interactions present within its pore.
Composition and photo-reactivity of organic matter from permafrost soils and surface waters in interior Alaska
Authors: Gagné Kristin R. , Ewers Sara C. , Murphy Carl J. , Daanen Ronald , Walter Anthony Katey , Guerard Jennifer J.
Published: June 2020

Yedoma permafrost soils are especially susceptible to abrupt thaw due to their exceptional thickness and high ice content.
Calculating limits of detection and defining working ranges for multi-signal calibration methods
Authors: Virgilio Alex , Silva Ana Beatriz S. , Nogueira Ana Rita A. , Nóbrega Joaquim A. , Donati George L.
Published: June 2020

Error propagation used to calculate LODs for MEC and MICal in MIP OES, ICP OES and ICP-MS determinations. Best trueness and precisions found for 0.1 < calibration slope < 0.9.
A low-cost and Li-rich organic coating on a Li4Ti5O12anode material enabling Li-ion battery cycling at subzero temperatures
Authors: Delaporte Nicolas , Chevallier Pascale , Rochon Sylviane , Lajoie Gilles , Daigle Jean-Christophe , Gariepy Vincent , Clément Daniel , Veillette René , Mathieu Marie-Claude , Provencher Manon , Trudeau Michel L. , Zaghib Karim
Published: June 2020

A Li4Ti5O12(LTO) anode material was coated with a Li-rich PTCLi4organic molecule using a spray-dryer technique to increase the Li-ion transfer at the electrode–electrolyte interface enabling battery cycling at sub-zero temperatures.
Bond states, moiré patterns, and bandgap modulation of two-dimensional BN/SiC van der Waals heterostructures
Authors: Bo Maolin , Li Hanze , Deng Anlin , Li Lei , Yao Chuang , Huang Zhongkai , Peng Cheng
Published: June 2020

This study aims to determine moiré patterns on the two-dimensional (2D) BN/SiC heterojunction at lattice strains of 5% and 7% and different incident angles, which can be applied to photoelectric detection technology.
Encapsulation of [bmim+][Tf2N−] in different ZIF-8 metal analogues and evaluation of their CO2 selectivity over CH4 and N2 using molecular simulation
Authors: Mohamed Amro M. O. , Krokidas Panagiotis , Economou Ioannis G.
Published: June 2020

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are candidate materials for the development of environmentally friendly gas separations. Ionic liquids can be encapsulated in the cages of ZIFs, resulting to hybrid materials with enhanced CO2-selectivity.
Lignin-based smart materials: a roadmap to processing and synthesis for current and future applications
Authors: Moreno Adrian , Sipponen Mika H.
Published: June 2020

Lignin-based smart materials are emerging into advanced material applications as stimuli-responsive actuators, sensors, controlled release systems, and more.
Effects of β-HgS on cell viability and intracellular oxidative stress in PC-12 cells
Authors: Geng Lujing , Xia Zhenghua , Yuan Lu , Li Cen , Zhang Ming , Du Yuzhi , Wei Lixin , Bi Hongtao
Published: June 2020

Traditional Tibetan medicines containing β-HgS have been used to treat chronic ailments for thousands of years. However, there has recently been speculation regarding the safety of these medicines due to their high mercury content. Although the toxic effect of β-HgS has been previously investigated in vivo, the mechanism underlying the toxicity of this compound remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the mechanism of β-HgS cytotoxicity via experiments performed on rat adrenal gland tumor cells (PC-12). Specifically, we analyze the viability and intracellular oxidative stress state of PC-12 cells treated with varying concentrations of β-HgS. For comparison purposes, the effects of MeHgCl and HgCl2, two Hg-based compounds, on ROS generation and MDA, GSH/GSSG, Nrf2, NQO-1, and HO-1 levels are also determined. It should be noted that we used the small-molecule thiols of cell culture medium, such as cysteine, to increase the solubility of β-HgS and prepare a β-HgS solution to treat PC-12 cells. The obtained results show that β-HgS inhibits cell viability at concentrations of 200–1000 ng Hg mL−1 (48 h treatment). In the concentration range of 200–600 ng Hg mL−1 (24 h treatment), the inhibitory effect of β-HgS is stronger than that of MeHgCl; however, this trend is reversed at higher concentrations (800–1000 ng mL−1) and longer exposure times (48 h). Moreover, β-HgS significantly promotes MDA, but has no appreciable influence on cell apoptosis and ROS generation in PC-12 cells, which suggests that its inhibitory effect on cell viability might be related to the stimulation of ROS-independent oxidative stress. Notably, β-HgS and HgCl2 significantly increase the GSH content, GSH/GSSG ratio, NQO-1 mRNA expression, and HO-1 protein expression in PC-12 cells, indicating that the antioxidant protection against these compounds is triggered by Nrf2 activation. HPLC-AFS analysis shows that in β-HgS and HgCl2 solutions, mercury exists in the same form of Hg2+, but the cytotoxicity of the former is greater. This is probably due to the additional oxidative damage induced by the S2− ion in β-HgS. In conclusion, β-HgS induces ROS-independent oxidative stress in PC-12 cells, and thus, is obviously cytotoxic. At the same time, it promotes the antioxidant capacity of cells by activating the Nrf2 pathway.
A hierarchical porous P-doped carbon electrode through hydrothermal carbonization of pomelo valves for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Huang Jing , Chen Jie , Yin Zhenyao , Wu Jinggao
Published: June 2020

Porous carbon materials are synthesized from pomelo valves by the hydrothermal activation of H3PO4 followed by simple carbonization.
A nanocomposite of NiFe2O4–PANI as a duo active electrocatalyst toward the sensitive colorimetric and electrochemical sensing of ascorbic acid
Authors: Navadeepthy D. , Thangapandian M. , Viswanathan C. , Ponpandian N.
Published: June 2020

A non-enzymatic, duo-active sensor using nickel ferrite/PANI (NF–PANI) nanocomposite based on peroxidase mimic and electrochemical methods for sensitive and selective detection of ascorbic acid.
Machine learning-driven new material discovery
Authors: Cai Jiazhen , Chu Xuan , Xu Kun , Li Hongbo , Wei Jing
Published: June 2020

This paper summarizes the ideas, operations and workflows of how machine learning has driven the discovery of new materials.
The development of a hemicyanine-based ratiometric CO fluorescent probe with a long emission wavelength and its applications for imaging COin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Zhang Yunyan , Kong Xiuqi , Tang Yonghe , Li Min , Yin Yaguang , Lin Weiying
Published: June 2020

A novel ratiometric fluorescent probe,Hcy-CO, with long-wavelength emission was developed for visualizing CO in living cells and zebrafish.
A NH4Cl–NaCl mixed salts assisted pyrolysis route for preparation of a high performance Fe/N/C oxygen reduction reaction catalyst
Authors: Hou Kun , Sun Zhen , Liu Yang , Guan Lunhui
Published: June 2020

A mixed salts NH4Cl + NaCl assisted pyrolysis approach is presented to prepare a highly efficient Fe/N/C electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction under both acidic and basic conditions.
Rational design of a hollow multilayer heterogeneous organic framework for photochemical applications
Authors: Wang Haihui , Zhu Xiaohui , Yang Yuling , Chen Chengyun , Lin Qianying , He Yu , Yin Xiaofei , Lu Chunhua , Yang Huanghao
Published: June 2020

The hollow PDA@g-C3N4/BPQD nanostructure was fabricated by the electrostatic bonding of positively charged g-C3N4 and negatively charged PDA which show a significant ability for photocatalytic H2 production and NIR triggered generation of ROS.
Recent advances of hollow-structured sulfur cathodes for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Huang Xia , Qiu Tengfei , Zhang Xinghao , Wang Lei , Luo Bin , Wang Lianzhou
Published: June 2020

This review summarises recent advances of hollow-structured sulfur cathodes for high performance lithium sulfur batteries, focusing on their synthesis, structure, electrochemical performance, advantages and challenges.
Aromatic vapor responsive molecular packing rearrangement in supramolecular gels
Authors: Cheng Qiuhong , Wang Zhuoer , Hao Aiyou , Xing Pengyao , Zhao Yanli
Published: June 2020

Aromatic vapor responsive hydrogels are prepared by crystal transformation of commercially available β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). Hydrogel composites coassembled by clay with β-CD show haze evolution toward aromatic vapor under heating–cooling treatment.
Recent advances in metal catalyzed or mediated cyclization/functionalization of alkynes to construct isoxazoles
Authors: Li Jianxiao , Lin Zidong , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: June 2020

This review summarized the recent developments in metal catalyzed or mediated cyclization/functionalization of alkynes to construct isoxazoles.
Electromagnetic and microwave absorption properties of iron pentacarbonyl pyrolysis-synthesized carbonyl iron fibers
Authors: Ge Chaoqun , Wang Liuying , Liu Gu , Xu Kejun , Wang Long , Zhang Lei , He Xuan
Published: June 2020

Carbonyl iron fibers synthesized at 300 °C exhibit a minimum RL of −58.1 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth of 5.66 GHz.
Comparative investigations ofin vitroandin vivobioactivity of titaniumvs.Ti–24Nb–4Zr–8Sn alloy before and after sandblasting and acid etching
Authors: Liu Xin , Niu Yumei , Xie Weili , Wei Daqing , Du Qing
Published: June 2020

To avoid the failure of clinical surgery due to “stress shielding” and the loosening of an implant, a new type of alloy, Ti–24Nb–4Zr–8Sn (TNZS), with a low Young's modulus acted as a new implant material in this work.
Heterogeneous semiconductor nanowire array for sensitive broadband photodetector by crack photolithography-based micro-/nanofluidic platforms
Authors: Zhou Qitao , Park Jun Gyu , Kim Taesung
Published: June 2020

The in situ growth of nanowires (NWs) into nano-/microelectromechanical systems (NEMS/MEMS) by solution processing is attractive for its relative simplicity and economic value.
Enzymatic synthesis of 2-hydroxy-4H-quinolizin-4-one scaffolds by integrating coenzyme a ligases and a type III PKS from Huperzia serrata
Authors: Wang Juan , Ding Ning , Wu Yun , Shi Xiaoping , Qi Bowen , Liu Xiao , Wang Xiaohui , Li Jun , Tu Pengfei , Shi Shepo
Published: June 2020

One-pot enzymatic synthesis of 2-hydroxy-4H-quinolizin-4-one scaffolds was developed by integrating three enzymes PcPCL, AtMatB, and HsPKS3.
Preparation and laser sintering of a thermoplastic polyurethane carbon nanotube composite-based pressure sensor
Authors: Zhuang Yu , Guo Yanling , Li Jian , Jiang Kaiyi , Yu Yueqiang , Zhang Hui , Liu Dakun
Published: June 2020

Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a desirable method for fabricating human motion detecting sensors as it can produce a complex shape with different materials that are machinable to specific applications.
Development of a telescoped synthesis of 4-(1H)-cyanoimidazole core accelerated by orthogonal reaction monitoring
Authors: Malig Thomas C. , Tan Yichen , Wisniewski Steven R. , Higman Carolyn S. , Carrasquillo-Flores Ronald , Ortiz Adrian , Purdum Geoffrey E. , Kolotuchin Sergei , Hein Jason E.
Published: June 2020

Telescoped synthesis enabled by reaction monitoring.
Enhanced alkaline hydrogen evolution performance of ruthenium by synergetic doping of cobalt and phosphorus
Authors: Hu Chun , Zhao Wei , Huang Fuqiang , Wang Jiacheng
Published: June 2020

The synergistic doping of Co and P into Ru could reduce the water dissociation barrier and optimize the hydrogen adsorption strength.
Trimetallic conductive metal–organic frameworks as precatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction with enhanced activity
Authors: Shi Xiaofei , Hua Rui , Xu Yulong , Liu Tong , Lu Guang
Published: June 2020

A strategy based on solvothermal synthesis and cation-exchange was developed to prepare the trimetallic FeCo0.6Ni0.4-CAT metal–organic framework (MOF) as the precatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction.
A bimetallic alloy anchored on biomass-derived porous N-doped carbon fibers as a self-supporting bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst for flexible Zn–air batteries
Authors: Niu Yanli , Teng Xue , Gong Shuaiqi , Chen Zuofeng
Published: June 2020

A bimetallic alloy anchored on bamboo stick-derived N-doped carbon fibers was developed as a self-supporting bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst for flexible Zn–air batteries.
Ultra-fast and ultra-long-life Li ion batteries with 3D surface-porous graphene anodes synthesized from CO2
Authors: Wang Lei , Deng Jie , Deng Juntao , Fei Yuhuan , Fang Yan , Hu Yun Hang
Published: June 2020

3D graphene with rich surface-pores was demonstrated an excellent anode material for Li-ion batteries.
Tuning proton dissociation energy in proton carrier doped 2D covalent organic frameworks for anhydrous proton conduction at elevated temperature
Authors: Chen Shuhui , Wu Yue , Zhang Ying , Zhang Wenxiang , Fu Yu , Huang Wenbo , Yan Tong , Ma Heping
Published: June 2020

The proton dissociation degrees and dielectric properties of proton carriers doped COFs with neutral, polar, Lewis base and positively charged sites are investigated to get better understanding of structure–conductivity relationship.
A carrier density dependent diffusion coefficient, recombination rate and diffusion length in MAPbI3 and MAPbBr3 crystals measured under one- and two-photon excitations
Authors: Ščajev Patrik , Miasojedovas Saulius , Juršėnas Saulius
Published: June 2020

Recombination, diffusion rates and diffusion length in MAPbI3 and MAPBr3 crystals in a wide carrier density range: experiment and theory.
A long persistent phosphorescent metal–organic framework for multi-level sensing of oxygen
Authors: Zhu Cheng-Yi , Wang Zheng , Mo Jun-Ting , Fan Ya-Nan , Pan Mei
Published: June 2020

A novel metal–organic framework (MOF) with long persistent luminescence (LPL) for multilevel oxygen detection is proposed.