bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Updating the MEDALUS‐ESA Framework for Worldwide Land Degradation and Desertification Assessment
Authors: Ferrara Agostino , Kosmas Constantinos , Salvati Luca , Padula Antonietta , Mancino Giuseppe , Nolè Angelo
Published: January 2020

The environmentally sensitive area (ESA) methodology (originally proposed in the framework of MEDALUS–Mediterranean Desertification and Land Use—a series of international cooperation research projects funded by the European Union) is used worldwide to identify 'sensitive areas' that are potentially threatened by land degradation and desertification (LDD). The distinctive outcome of this approach is a multidimensional index (the ESA index) composed of partial indicators of climate, soil, vegetation, and management quality that are derived from the elaboration of 15 elementary variables. In this study, we propose (a) a major update of the ESA methodology, as presented in the MEDALUS project, for global LDD assessment, (b) a global map of ESAs to LDD, and (c) a global environmentally critical factors map. The results of the updated ESA framework confirm the efficiency and applicability of the ESA methodology in different worldwide areas, allowing for the harmonization of regional/country level studies and applications, and the more efficient use of global level datasets. In this study, we provide examples for analysis of LDD patterns and processes at a global level, as well as for identification of the main risk factors over time and space. Global‐ESA and global‐environmentally critical factors maps also support regional‐scale knowledge on LDD processes and sustainable land management practices for LDD mitigation. High‐resolution illustrative maps and other information are available on a dedicated website (http://web.unibas.it/global-esa/).
Identification of six novel variants in Waardenburg syndrome type II by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Ren Shumin , Chen Xiaojie , Kong Xiangdong , Chen Yibing , Wu Qinghua , Jiao Zhihui , Shi Huirong
Published: January 2020

Background

Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is a dominantly inherited, genetically heterogeneous auditory‐pigmentary syndrome characterized by nonprogressive sensorineural hearing loss and iris discoloration. This study aimed to investigate the underlying molecular pathology in Chinese WS families.

Methods

A total of 13 patients with Waardenburg syndrome type II (WS2) from six unrelated Chinese families were enrolled. We investigated the mutation profile of genes related to congenital deafness in these families through a targeted sequencing technology and validated the candidate variants by Sanger sequencing.

Results

We identified six novel variants in microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MITF) and SRY‐box 10 (SOX10), which were predicted to be disease causing by in silico analysis. Our results showed that mutations in SOX10 and MITF are two major causes of deafness associated with WS, and de novo mutations were frequently found in probands with SOX10 mutations but not in those with MITF mutations.

Conclusion

Results showed that targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) enabled us to detect disease‐causing mutations with high accuracy, stability, speed and throughput. Our study extends the pathogenic mutation spectrum of MITF and SOX10.
The earliest double dog deposit in the Palaeolithic record: The case of the Azilian level of Grotte‐abri du Moulin (Troubat, France)
Authors: Boudadi‐Maligne Myriam , Mallye Jean‐Baptiste , Ferrié Jean‐Georges , Costamagno Sandrine , Barshay‐Szmidt Carolyn , Deguilloux Marie‐France , Pémonge Marie‐Hélène , Barbaza Michel
Published: January 2020

It is now largely accepted that the wolf was the first animal to be domesticated during Pleistocene time. Although the exact timing of this event is still the subject of considerable debate, it is generally agreed upon that dogs lived side‐by‐side with humans for at least the last 15,000 years. Recent discoveries from the “Grotte‐abri du Moulin” (Troubat, France) provide crucial new information as to our understanding of the relationships between humans and dogs during prehistory. The site produced a deep stratigraphic sequence demonstrating that the cave was occupied from the Middle Magdalenian (ca. 17.5 ky cal BP) to the Sauveterrian period (ca. 9.5 ky cal BP). Faunal remains from layer 6, attributed to the Azilian culture, included a small Canis. The biometric study of these remains is fully consistent with their attribution to the dog (Canis familiaris). A total of 147 dog remains were isolated and represent a minimum of two individuals. These remains were recovered from a restricted space, and several skeletal elements remained in anatomical connection or in loose connection. The most labile elements were only slightly dispersed, and there is no evidence of human or carnivore modification on these bones. Direct radiocarbon dates obtained from a complete tibia demonstrate the dog remains to be contemporaneous with the Azilian occupation of the cave. The Grotte‐abri du Moulin evidence represents, therefore, the earliest known occurrence of an intentional double dog deposit and evidence for a particularly close relationship between Azilian groups and their dogs.
Construction of superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic polydopamine‐modified h‐BN/poly(arylene ether nitrile) composite membrane for stable oil‐water emulsions separation
Authors: Zhang Guiyuan , Zhan Yingqing , He Shuangjiang , Zhang Lianhong , Zeng Guangyong , Chiao Yu‐Hsuan
Published: January 2020

Oil/water emulsion separation in harsh environments remains a big challenge. Herein, a double layered nanofibrous composite membrane was developed by assembly of polydopamine‐modified hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN‐PDA) onto a poly(arylene ether nitrile) (PEN) nanofibrous mat. Owing to the synergistic effect of a h‐BN‐PDA skin layer and a PEN nanofibrous mat supporting layer, as‐prepared composite membrane exhibited high thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic property. Consequently, the PEN composite membrane showed good antifouling performance and a high rejection ratio (>99.0%) for various oil/water emulsions. After 10 cycles, the separation flux of PEN composite membrane still reached 588.1 L/m2 h under the operating pressure of 0.04 MPa. Furthermore, the PEN composite membrane could still achieve high separation efficiency and high flux in high‐temperature (65 °C) and strongly corrosive conditions (pH = 1‐13). Therefore, the stable and efficient h‐BN‐PDA/PEN composite membrane showed potential application for treating oily wastewater in harsh environments.
A Theoretical Study on the Fluorescence Signal Sensing of a colorimetric ClO‐ chemosensor
Authors: Bai Tianxin , Chu Tianshu
Published: January 2020

Detection of reactive oxygen species by optical signal sensing is of great interesting to the chemical and medical world. In this paper, the fluorescence signal sensing process of a colorimetric ClO‐ chemosensor (S‐BODIPY) has been investigated through DFT/TDDFT calculations. The relative free energy (ΔG = 23.46 kcal/mol) suggests that the oxidation process of the chemosensor by the analyte would have a favorable reaction rate, accounting for a rapid response speed, and the large binding energy of 35.3 kcal/mol supports a good selectivity of the chemosensor for ClO‐. The calculated vertical excitation energies of S‐BODIPY (1.93 eV) and its oxidation product SO‐BODIPY (2.01 eV) agree well with the experimental emission data (2.00 and 2.11 eV, respectively). The absorption spectra and 1H NMR spectra have also been computed and analyzed showing reasonably good agreement with experimental ones. The fluorescence signal sensing mechanism is verified to be associated with the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), that is, the relatively weak ICT process in SO‐BODIPY than that in S‐BODIPY has caused the observable blueshift in both the absorption and emission spectra after the detection of ClO‐.
Surface modification of calcium sulfate whisker using thiol‐ene click reaction and its application in reinforced silicone rubber
Authors: Chen Ying , Ding Yu , Dong Yajie , Liu Yuetao , Ren Xiu , Wang Bo , Gao Chuanhui
Published: January 2020

The hemihydrate calcium sulfate whisker (HCSW) was modified by γ‐(methacryloxy)propyl trimethoxy silane (KH570) and trimethylolpropane tris(3‐mercaptopropionate) via wet modification and thiol‐ene click reaction, and then the unmodified and modified HCSW were added into α, ω‐dihydroxy polysiloxane (DPS) matrix to prepare silicon rubber composites. After the dual‐surface modification, the surface of HCSW was transformed to hydrophobic, the hydration of whisker was obviously improved, and the whisker dispersed more evenly in the polymer. The mechanical properties, dynamic mechanical properties, and the medium resistance of the silicone rubber composite were compared. The tensile test shows that the silicone rubber shows better mechanical properties after adding the modified whiskers, among which HCSW‐KH570‐SH has the most significant reinforcement effect. Moreover, DPS/HCSW‐KH570‐SH shows the best medium resistance in toluene, gasoline, and water. The addition of modified whiskers can improve the storage modulus of silicone rubber significantly, while DMA and DSC show that the addition of modified whiskers can reduce the glass transition temperature of silicone rubber. The bound rubber indicates that the interface interaction between HCSW‐KH570‐SH and silicone rubber is the best.
Quantification of glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid from microbiome reactor fluids
Authors: Fritz‐Wallace Katarina , Engelmann Beatrice , Krause Jannike L. , Schäpe Stephanie S. , Pöppe Judith , Herberth Gunda , Rösler Uwe , Jehmlich Nico , von Bergen Martin , Rolle‐Kampczyk Ulrike
Published: January 2020

Rationale

Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides and it is suspected to affect the intestinal microbiota through inhibition of aromatic amino acid synthesis via the shikimate pathway. In vitro microbiome bioreactors are increasingly used as model systems to investigate effects on intestinal microbiota and consequently methods for the quantitation of glyphosate and its degradation product aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) in microbiome model systems are required.

Methods

An optimized protocol enables the analysis of both glyphosate and AMPA by simple extraction with methanol:acetonitrile:water (2:3:1) without further enrichment steps. Glyphosate and AMPA are separated by liquid chromatography on an amide column and identified and quantified with a targeted tandem mass spectrometry method using a QTRAP 5500 system (AB Sciex).

Results

Our method has a limit of detection (LOD) in extracted water samples of <2 ng/mL for both glyphosate and AMPA. In complex intestinal medium, the LOD is 2 and 5 ng/mL for glyphosate and AMPA, respectively. These LODs allow for measurement at exposure‐relevant concentrations. Glyphosate levels in a bioreactor model of porcine colon were determined and consequently it was verified whether AMPA was produced by porcine gut microbiota.

Conclusions

The method presented here allows quantitation of glyphosate and AMPA in complex bioreactor fluids and thus enables studies of the impact of glyphosate and its metabolism on intestinal microbiota. In addition, the extraction protocol is compatible with an untargeted metabolomics analysis, thus allowing one to look for other perturbations caused by glyphosate in the same sample.
Rapid quantification of tenofovir in umbilical cord plasma and amniotic fluid in hepatitis B mono‐infected pregnant women during labor by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Li Siying , He Daqiang , Wang Yuqing , Jiang Huidi , Zhou Hui , Jin Jie , Lin Nengming
Published: January 2020

Rationale

Tenofovir (TFV) is a first‐line antiviral agent against hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is recommended for the prevention of mother‐to‐infant transmission of HBV. To study the distribution of TFV in umbilical cord plasma and amniotic fluid of HBV‐infected pregnant women, a rapid and sensitive method for TFV determination was developed and validated.

Methods

The quantification method was developed using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). The analytes were separated on an Acquity UPLC HSS T3 column under gradient elution with methanol and 0.01% ammonia solution in 10 mM ammonium acetate/water. This is the first reported method for the determination of TFV using alkaline rather than acidic mobile phases. Linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of quantification, specificity and stability were assessed.

Results

Detection of TFV was achieved within 4 min. The calibration curves for TFV quantification showed excellent linearity in the range of 1–500 ng/mL. The intra‐ and interbatch precision and accuracy ranged from −4.35% to 6.92%. This method was successfully applied to determination of samples from 50 HBV mono‐infected women undergoing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate therapy. The mean concentrations of TFV in the umbilical cord and amniotic fluid samples were 29.2 (4.6–86) and 470.9 (156–902) ng/mL, respectively, which showed a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.5299, P<0.001).

Conclusions

A simple, rapid but sensitive bioanalytical method to determine TFV concentration in both umbilical cord plasma and amniotic fluid using LC/MS/MS was developed and applied to HBV‐infected women during labor who were undergoing TDF therapy, which will help us understand the efficacy and safety of tenofovir during pregnancy.
Simulation of unidirectional ion ejection in linear ion traps with asymmetric radiofrequency voltage
Authors: Zhang Yingjun , Wu Haiyan , Rujiao Yao , Qian Jie , Ge Saijin , Ma Qiang , Bai Hua , Xiao Yu , Li Xiaoxu
Published: January 2020

Rationale

Linear ion traps with simplified structure have been widely used in miniaturized mass spectrometers. However, linear ion traps usually have low ion detection efficiency when used in a miniaturized mass spectrometer, in which only one ion detector can be installed. To solve this problem, an asymmetric radiofrequency (RF) voltage was applied to introduce asymmetric electric fields in the trapping volume of linear ion traps, which would lead to unidirectional ion ejection.

Methods

An asymmetric RF voltage was applied on both half‐round‐rod electrode and triangular electrode linear ion traps, and their performances including unidirectional ion ejection efficiency and mass resolution were evaluated using computer simulation. The relationship between asymmetric RF voltage difference δ and internal electric field distribution was investigated, and the impact of δ and resonance excitation signal frequency on the unidirectional ion ejection efficiency and mass resolution was also explored.

Results

A unidirectional ion ejection efficiency of around 83% and a mass resolution of over 2700 were achieved with δ = 7% in both half‐round‐rod electrode and triangular electrode linear ion traps.

Conclusions

By applying an asymmetric RF voltage, the ion detection efficiency could be significantly improved without any change to the structures of existing linear ion traps. This method provides a simple and general solution for improving the ion detection efficiency and sensitivity of miniaturized linear ion trap mass spectrometers.
Risk Identification: A Corpus‐Assisted Study of Websites of Government Agencies
Authors: Boholm Max , Boholm Åsa
Published: January 2020

Government agencies have a key role in the regulation, management, and communication of risk. This paper explores how seven Swedish government agencies in the policy fields of (i) chemicals, (ii) civil contingencies, (iii) energy, (iv) environmental protection, (v) food, (vi) housing and buildings, and (vii) traffic identify risks on their websites. The relational theory of risk is used as an analytical tool to unpack risk identification. An analytical distinction is made between “risk objects,” that is, potentially harmful objects, and “objects at risk,” that is values at stake. The articulation of risk objects and objects at risk on government agencies’ websites is explored by using corpus linguistic techniques that reveal lexical and grammatical patterns of the word “risk.” The agencies identify an extensive assembly of risk objects of various kinds. The sets of risks identified are rather idiosyncratic and there is limited overlap between agencies. The identification of objects at risk is less varied and idiosyncratic than the identification of risk objects, were the agencies appear to be more in agreement. The findings are discussed in relation to the scope of risk identification; institutional explanations, and in terms of conditions for inter‐agency collaboration, identified as a key feature of effective risk governance.
Mordenite‐Type Zeolite from Waste Coal Fly Ash: Synthesis, Characterization and Its Application as a Sorbent in Metal Ions Removal
Authors: Lankapati Henilkumar M. , Lathiya Dharmesh R. , Choudhary Lalita , Dalai Ajay K. , Maheria Kalpana C.
Published: January 2020

Coal fly ash is a waste, obtained from the combustion of coal in thermal power plants. Fly ash is harmful and its disposal is the major issue from an environmental point of view. As fly ash contains silica and alumina, it is thought of interest to use it for the synthesis of porous material like zeolite. In this work, the focus is on the utilization of fly ash for the synthesis of Mordenite type zeolite and its application in the toxic metals removal from aqueous solution. Coal fly ash based Mordenite type zeolite (FZSH) was synthesized by seed assisted hydrothermal synthetic method using fly ash as a source of silica and alumina instead of using pure silica and alumina. The resultant material was characterized by various techniques, such as SEM‐EDX, XRD, TGA, FT‐IR, solid state NMR, BET surface area, etc. The XRD patterns confirm the presence of Mordenite phase in the FZSH zeolite. The sorption behavior of Pb2+ and Cd2+ towards commercial Mordenite and FZSH Mordenite type zeolite is investigated and compared. Percentage uptake obtained using FZSH and commercial Mordenite zeolite sorbent was found quite similar. The kinetic and thermodynamic studies reveal the favourable and spontaneous nature of the sorption.
Dynamic Passivation in Perovskite Quantum Dots for Specific Ammonia Detection at Room Temperature
Authors: Huang Hui , Hao Mingwei , Song Yilong , Dang Song , Liu Xiaoting , Dong Qingfeng
Published: January 2020

Perovskite structured CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, or I) quantum dots (QDs) have attracted considerable interest in the past few years due to their excellent optoelectronic properties. Surface passivation is one of the main pathways to optimize the optoelectrical performance of perovskite QDs, in which the amino group plays an important role for the corresponding interaction between lead and halide. In this work, it is found that ammonia gas could dramatically increase photoluminescence of purified QDs and effectively passivate surface defects of perovskite QDs introduced during purification, which is a reversible process. This phenomenon makes perovskite QDs a kind of ideal candidate for detection of ammonia gas at room temperature. This QD film sensor displays specific recognition behavior toward ammonia gas due to its significant fluorescence enhancement, while depressed luminescence in case of other gases. The sensor, in turn‐on mode, shows a wide detection range from 25 to 350 ppm with a limit of detection as low as 8.85 ppm. Meanwhile, a fast response time of ≈10 s is achieved, and the recovery time is ≈30 s. The fully reversible, high sensitivity and selectivity characteristics make CsPbBr3 QDs ideal active materials for room‐temperature ammonia sensing.
Über den Einfluss der Torsionssteifigkeit von Längssteifen bei Beulfeldern unter biaxialen Druckspannungen
Authors: Pourostad Vahid , Heidt Matthias , Knödel Peter , Kuhlmann Ulrike , Ummenhofer Thomas
Published: January 2020

Bei der Montage von Stahl‐ und Stahlverbundbrücken im Taktschiebeverfahren sind die schlanken Stegbleche des Überbaus temporär einer biaxialen Druckbeanspruchung ausgesetzt. Neben den Längsspannungen infolge des Biegemoments tritt am Verschublager gleichzeitig eine einseitige Querdruckbelastung auf, sodass der Bauzustand oft bemessungsrelevant wird. Für längsversteifte Stegbleche ist in Deutschland für eine analytisch gestützte Bemessung die Methode der reduzierten Spannungen nach DIN EN 1993‐1‐5 zu verwenden. Jüngere Untersuchungen hatten für den Fall einachsiger Druckbeanspruchungen festgestellt, dass das Nachweisformat für längsausgesteifte Beulfelder unter Berücksichtigung der Torsionssteifigkeit geschlossener Steifen bei der Bestimmung der kritischen Beulspannung zu unsicheren Ergebnissen führt. Deswegen wurde im November 2018 in den Nationalen Anhang zu DIN EN 1993‐1‐5 aufgenommen, dass die Torsionssteifigkeit in diesen Fällen zu vernachlässigen ist. Im Oktober 2019 wurde auch die Hauptnorm DIN EN 1993‐1‐5 entsprechend ergänzt. Im Rahmen einer Masterarbeit wurde in einer numerischen Parameterstudie untersucht, inwiefern sich die hohe Torsionssteifigkeit geschlossener Steifen gegenüber offenen Querschnitten auf die Versagenslast und ‐form eines Stegblechs unter mehrachsiger Druckbeanspruchung auswirkt. Die Traglasten aus der Parameterstudie werden herangezogen, um sie den Ergebnissen nach dem Verfahren aus DIN EN 1993‐1‐5 gegenüberzustellen und Empfehlungen für die Bemessung zu entwickeln.
Can Fluid Interaction Influence the Critical Mass for Taxis-Driven Blow-up in Bounded Planar Domains?
Authors: Winkler Michael
Published: January 2020

In a bounded planar domain $\varOmega $
Ω
with smooth boundary, the initial-boundary value problem of homogeneous Neumann type for the Keller-Segel-fluid system
$$\begin{aligned} \left \{ \textstyle\begin{array}{l@{\quad }l} n_{t} + \nabla \cdot (nu) = \Delta n - \nabla \cdot (n\nabla c), & x\in \varOmega , \ t>0, \\ 0 = \Delta c -c+n, & x\in \varOmega , \ t>0, \end{array}\displaystyle \right . \end{aligned}$$

{

n
t

+
∇
⋅
(
n
u
)
=
Δ
n
−
∇
⋅
(
n
∇
c
)
,

x
∈
Ω
,

t
>
0
,

0
=
Δ
c
−
c
+
n
,

x
∈
Ω
,

t
>
0
,

is considered, where $u$
u
is a given sufficiently smooth velocity field on $\overline {\varOmega }\times [0,\infty )$

Ω
‾

×
[
0
,
∞
)
that is tangential on $\partial \varOmega $
∂
Ω
but not necessarily solenoidal.

It is firstly shown that for any choice of $n_{0}\in C^{0}(\overline {\varOmega })$

n
0

∈

C
0

(

Ω
‾

)
with $\int _{\varOmega}n_{0}<4\pi $

∫
Ω

n
0

<
4
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, this problem admits a global classical solution with $n(\cdot ,0)=n_{0}$
n
(
⋅
,
0
)
=

n
0

, and that this solution is even bounded whenever $u$
u
is bounded and $\int _{\varOmega}n_{0}<2\pi $

∫
Ω

n
0

<
2
π
. Secondly, it is seen that for each $m>4\pi $
m
>
4
π
one can find a classical solution with $\int _{\varOmega}n(\cdot ,0)=m$

∫
Ω

n
(
⋅
,
0
)
=
m
which blows up in finite time, provided that $\varOmega $
Ω
satisfies a technical assumption requiring $\partial \varOmega $
∂
Ω
to contain a line segment.

In particular, this indicates that the value $4\pi $
4
π
of the critical mass for the corresponding fluid-free Keller-Segel system is left unchanged by any fluid interaction of the considered type, thus marking a considerable contrast to a recent result revealing some fluid-induced increase of critical blow-up masses in a related Cauchy problem in the entire plane.
Bother Associated with Climacturia After Radical Prostatectomy: Prevalence and Predictors
Authors: Salter Carolyn A. , Bach Phil Vu , Miranda Eduardo , Jenkins Lawrence C. , Benfante Nicole , Schofield Elizabeth , Nelson Christian J. , Mulhall John P.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Orgasm-associated incontinence, climacturia, is one of the lesser studied radical prostatectomy (RP) complications. Little is known about patient bother related to this condition, specifically, its prevalence and predictors.

Aim

To ascertain the prevalence and predictors of patient bother associated with climacturia.

Methods

Patients presenting for the evaluation of sexual dysfunction after RP at a single center were queried on various domains of sexual dysfunction. This included orgasmic dysfunction and sexual incontinence (including climacturia and arousal incontinence). Patients were specifically asked about the frequency and amount of climacturia. In addition, questions addressed patient bother and the perceived bother of their partners. Descriptive statistics were used for patient characteristics. A t-test was used for comparing the frequency of patient and partner bother, and the Pearson correlation test compared relationships between bother and predictors. Multivariable analysis was conducted to define predictors of climacturia-associated bother.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measures was the prevalence and predictors of climacturia-associated patient bother and perceived partner bother.

Results

Climacturia was reported by 23% of 3,207 consecutive men analyzed. Bother of any degree was experienced by 45% of these patients, and 14% reported partner bother related to this condition. Patient bother was associated with perceived partner bother (P < .001) and inversely correlated with relationship duration (P < .001). The overall frequency and quantity of climacturia were also predictive (P < .001 for both). In the adjusted model, all of these factors remained significant.

Clinical Implications

Given the prevalence of this condition and the bother associated with it, this complication should be discussed with patients preoperatively.

Strength & Limitations

Strengths include a large study population and specific questions on climacturia-associated bother. Limitations include the fact that it is a single-center study and no direct partner questioning occurred.

Conclusion

Climacturia and its associated bother are common after RP. The predictors of patient bother include perceived partner bother, shorter relationship duration, and increasing frequency and quantity of climacturia.
Elaborating dependent (co)pattern matching: No pattern left behind
Authors: COCKX JESPER , ABEL ANDREAS
Published: January 2020

In a dependently typed language, we can guarantee correctness of our programmes by providing formal proofs. To check them, the typechecker elaborates these programs and proofs into a low-level core language. However, this core language is by nature hard to understand by mere humans, so how can we know we proved the right thing? This question occurs in particular for dependent copattern matching, a powerful language construct for writing programmes and proofs by dependent case analysis and mixed induction/coinduction. A definition by copattern matching consists of a list of clauses that are elaborated to a case tree, which can be further translated to primitive eliminators. In previous work this second step has received a lot of attention, but the first step has been mostly ignored so far. We present an algorithm elaborating definitions by dependent copattern matching to a core language with inductive data types, coinductive record types, an identity type, and constants defined by well-typed case trees. To ensure correctness, we prove that elaboration preserves the first-match semantics of the user clauses. Based on this theoretical work, we reimplement the algorithm used by Agda to check left-hand sides of definitions by pattern matching. The new implementation is at the same time more general and less complex, and fixes a number of bugs and usability issues with the old version. Thus, we take another step towards the formally verified implementation of a practical dependently typed language.
Secondary Flows and Vortex Structure Associated With Isolated and Interacting Barchan Dunes
Authors: Bristow N. R. , Blois G. , Best J. L. , Christensen K. T.
Published: January 2020

The three‐dimensional, crescentic morphology of a barchan dune induces secondary flows and a complex vortex structure in its wake. In scenarios where barchans are in close proximity to each other, the flow modifications introduced by the wake of the upstream barchan are important for understanding the morphodynamics of the downstream barchan. The results herein detail the flow structure in a plane normal to the mean flow (cross‐plane) through stereo particle image velocimetry measurements in a refractive‐index‐matching flow facility, utilizing solid, fixed‐bed barchan models. Spatial distributions of streamwise‐oriented swirling motions and Reynolds shear stress components reveal distinct flow regimes in the wake region of an isolated barchan: flow downstream of the horn tips and flow in the separated shear layer closer to the centerline. Streamwise rollers appear downstream of the horns, and measurements upstream demonstrate their origin on the stoss side of the dune in the form of a horseshoe vortex. Flow downstream of the separated shear layer in the wake embodies features consistent with that of hairpin vortices shed from the arched crestline of the barchan. These structures constitute the induction of secondary flows in the flow that, in the case of barchans in close proximity with a lateral offset, are preferentially amplified in accordance with local topography. Further analysis reveals the spatial scales and turbulent stresses associated with these structures, which are discussed in the context of larger fields of bedforms and the formation of protodunes.
TGF-β1/IL-11/MEK/ERK signaling mediates senescence-associated pulmonary fibrosis in a stress-induced premature senescence model of Bmi-1 deficiency
Authors: Chen Haiyun , Chen Hongjie , Liang Jialong , Gu Xin , Zhou Jiawen , Xie Chunfeng , Lv Xianhui , Wang Rong , Li Qing , Mao Zhiyuan , Sun Haijian , Zuo Guoping , Miao Dengshun , Jin Jianliang
Published: January 2020

To study whether TGF-β1/IL-11/MEK/ERK (TIME) signaling mediates senescence-associated pulmonary fibrosis (SAPF) in Bmi-1-deficient (Bmi-1−/−) mice and determines the major downstream mediator of Bmi-1 and crosstalk between p16INK4a and reactive oxygen species that regulates SAPF, phenotypes were compared among 7-week-old p16INK4a and Bmi-1 double-knockout, N-acetylcysteine (NAC)-treated Bmi-1−/−, Bmi-1−/−, and wild-type mice. Pulmonary fibroblasts and alveolar type II epithelial (AT2) cells were used for experiments. Human pulmonary tissues were tested for type Ι collagen, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), p16INK4a, p53, p21, and TIME signaling by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results demonstrated that Bmi-1 deficiency resulted in a shortened lifespan, ventilatory resistance, poor ventilatory compliance, and SAPF, including cell senescence, DNA damage, a senescence-associated secretory phenotype and collagen overdeposition that was mediated by the upregulation of TIME signaling. The signaling stimulated cell senescence, senescence-related secretion of TGF-β1 and IL-11 and production of collagen 1 by pulmonary fibroblasts and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of AT2 cells. These processes were inhibited by anti-IL-11 or the MEK inhibitor PD98059. NAC treatment prolonged the lifespan and ameliorated pulmonary dysfunction and SAPF by downregulating TIME signaling more than p16INK4a deletion by inhibiting oxidative stress and DNA damage and promoting ubiquitin-proteasome degradation of p16INK4a and p53. Cytoplasmic p16INK4a accumulation upregulated MEK/ERK signaling by inhibiting the translocation of pERK1/2 (Thr202/Tyr204) from the cytoplasm to the nucleus in senescent fibroblasts. The accumulation of collagen 1 and α-SMA in human lungs accompanied by cell senescence may be mediated by TIME signaling. Thus, this signaling in aging fibroblasts or AT2 cells could be a therapeutic target for preventing SAPF.
Biological impact of lead from halide perovskites reveals the risk of introducing a safe threshold
Authors: Li Junming , Cao Hai-Lei , Jiao Wen-Bin , Wang Qiong , Wei Mingdeng , Cantone Irene , Lü Jian , Abate Antonio
Published: January 2020

Regulations currently in force enable to claim that the lead content in perovskite solar cells is low enough to be safe, or no more dangerous, than other electronics also containing lead. However, the actual environmental impact of lead from perovskite is unknown. Here we show that the lead from perovskite leaking into the ground can enter plants, and consequently the food cycle, ten times more effectively than other lead contaminants already present as the result of the human activities. We further demonstrate that replacing lead with tin represents an environmentally-safer option. Our data suggest that we need to treat the lead from perovskite with exceptional care. In particular, we point out that the safety level for lead content in perovskite-based needs to be lower than other lead-containing electronics. We encourage replacing lead completely with more inert metals to deliver safe perovskite technologies.
Reaction scope and mechanistic insights of nickel-catalyzed migratory Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling
Authors: Li Yuqiang , Luo Yixin , Peng Long , Li Yangyang , Zhao Binzhi , Wang Wang , Pang Hailiang , Deng Yi , Bai Ruopeng , Lan Yu , Yin Guoyin
Published: January 2020

Cross-coupling reactions have developed into powerful approaches for carbon–carbon bond formation. In this work, a Ni-catalyzed migratory Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling featuring high benzylic or allylic selectivity has been developed. With this method, unactivated alkyl electrophiles and aryl or vinyl boronic acids can be efficiently transferred to diarylalkane or allylbenzene derivatives under mild conditions. Importantly, unactivated alkyl chlorides can also be successfully used as the coupling partners. To demonstrate the applicability of this method, we showcase that this strategy can serve as a platform for the synthesis of terminal, partially deuterium-labeled molecules from readily accessible starting materials. Experimental studies suggest that migratory cross-coupling products are generated from Ni(0/II) catalytic cycle. Theoretical calculations indicate that the chain-walking occurs at a neutral nickel complex rather than a cationic one. In addition, the original-site cross-coupling products can be obtained by alternating the ligand, wherein the formation of the products has been rationalized by a radical chain process.
Structural insight into small molecule action on Frizzleds
Authors: Kozielewicz Paweł , Turku Ainoleena , Bowin Carl-Fredrik , Petersen Julian , Valnohova Jana , Cañizal Maria Consuelo Alonso , Ono Yuki , Inoue Asuka , Hoffmann Carsten , Schulte Gunnar
Published: January 2020

WNT-Frizzled (FZD) signaling plays a critical role in embryonic development, stem cell regulation and tissue homeostasis. FZDs are linked to severe human pathology and are seen as a promising target for therapy. Despite intense efforts, no small molecule drugs with distinct efficacy have emerged. Here, we identify the Smoothened agonist SAG1.3 as a partial agonist of FZD6with limited subtype selectivity. Employing extensive in silico analysis, resonance energy transfer- and luciferase-based assays we describe the mode of action of SAG1.3. We define the ability of SAG1.3 to bind to FZD6and to induce conformational changes in the receptor, recruitment and activation of G proteins and dynamics in FZD–Dishevelled interaction. Our results provide the proof-of-principle that FZDs are targetable by small molecules acting on their seven transmembrane spanning core. Thus, we provide a starting point for a structure-guided and mechanism-based drug discovery process to exploit the potential of FZDs as therapeutic targets.
Understanding the friction of atomically thin layered materials
Authors: Andersson David , de Wijn Astrid S.
Published: January 2020

Friction is a ubiquitous phenomenon that greatly affects our everyday lives and is responsible for large amounts of energy loss in industrialised societies. Layered materials such as graphene have interesting frictional properties and are often used as (additives to) lubricants to reduce friction and protect against wear. Experimental Atomic Force Microscopy studies and detailed simulations have shown a number of intriguing effects such as frictional strengthening and dependence of friction on the number of layers covering a surface. Here, we propose a simple, fundamental, model for friction on thin sheets. We use our model to explain a variety of seemingly contradictory experimental as well as numerical results. This model can serve as a basis for understanding friction on thin sheets, and opens up new possibilities for ultimately controlling their friction and wear protection.
A first principles method to determine speciation of carbonates in supercritical water
Authors: Pan Ding , Galli Giulia
Published: January 2020

The determination of the speciation of ions and molecules in supercritical aqueous fluids under pressure is critical to understanding their mass transport in the Earth’s interior. Unfortunately, there is no experimental technique yet available to directly characterize species dissolved in water at extreme conditions. Here we present a strategy, based on first-principles simulations, to determine ratios of Raman scattering cross-sections of aqueous species under extreme conditions, thus providing a key quantity that can be used, in conjunction with Raman measurements, to predict chemical speciation in aqueous fluids. Due to the importance of the Earth’s carbon cycle, we focus on carbonate and bicarbonate ions. Our calculations up to 11 GPa and 1000 K indicate a higher concentration of bicarbonates in water than previously considered at conditions relevant to the Earth’s upper mantle, with important implications for the transport of carbon in aqueous fluids in the Earth’s interior.
Synthesis of difluoromethylated allenes through trifunctionalization of 1,3-enynes
Authors: Taj Muhammad Munira , Jiao Yihang , Ye Changqing , Chiou Mong-Feng , Israr Muhammad , Zhu Xiaotao , Li Yajun , Wen Zhenhai , Studer Armido , Bao Hongli
Published: January 2020

Organofluorine compounds have shown their great value in many aspects. Moreover, allenes are also a class of important compounds. Fluorinated or fluoroalkylated allenes might provide an option as candidates for drug and material developments, as allenes allow a great number of valuable transformations. Herein, we report a metal-free synthesis of difluoromethylated allenes via regioselective trifunctionalization of 1,3-enynes. This method proceeds through double C–F bond formation with concomitant introduction of an amino group to the allene. Synthetic applications are conducted and preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that a two-step pathway is involved. DFT calculations revealed an unusual dibenzenesulfonimide-assisted fluorination/fluoroamination with NFSI. In addition, kinetic reaction study revealed the induction period of both major and side products to support the proposed reaction mechanism. This work offers a convenient approach for the synthesis of a range of difluoromethylated allenes and is also a rare example of trifunctionalization of 1,3-enynes.
Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from conversion of peat swamp forest to oil palm plantation
Authors: Cooper Hannah V. , Evers Stephanie , Aplin Paul , Crout Neil , Dahalan Mohd Puat Bin , Sjogersten Sofie
Published: January 2020

Conversion of tropical peat swamp forest to drainage-based agriculture alters greenhouse gas (GHG) production, but the magnitude of these changes remains highly uncertain. Current emissions factors for oil palm grown on drained peat do not account for temporal variation over the plantation cycle and only consider CO2 emissions. Here, we present direct measurements of GHGs emitted during the conversion from peat swamp forest to oil palm plantation, accounting for CH4 and N2O as well as CO2. Our results demonstrate that emissions factors for converted peat swamp forest is in the range 70–117 t CO2 eq ha−1 yr−1 (95% confidence interval, CI), with CO2 and N2O responsible for ca. 60 and ca. 40% of this value, respectively. These GHG emissions suggest that conversion of Southeast Asian peat swamp forest is contributing between 16.6 and 27.9% (95% CI) of combined total national GHG emissions from Malaysia and Indonesia or 0.44 and 0.74% (95% CI) of annual global emissions.
GOODD, a global dataset of more than 38,000 georeferenced dams
Authors: Mulligan Mark , van Soesbergen Arnout , Sáenz Leonardo
Published: January 2020

By presenting the most comprehensive GlObal geOreferenced Database of Dams to date containing more than 38,000 dams as well as their associated catchments, we enable new and improved global analyses of the impact of dams on society and environment and the impact of environmental change (for example land use and climate change) on the catchments of dams. This paper presents the development of the global database through systematic digitisation of satellite imagery globally by a small team and highlights the various approaches to bias estimation and to validation of the data. The following datasets are provided (a) raw digitised coordinates for the location of dam walls (that may be useful for example in machine learning approaches to dam identification from imagery), (b) a global vector file of the watershed for each dam.
The Chieti Affective Action Videos database, a resource for the study of emotions in psychology
Authors: Di Crosta Adolfo , La Malva Pasquale , Manna Claudio , Marin Anna , Palumbo Rocco , Verrocchio Maria Cristina , Cortini Michela , Mammarella Nicola , Di Domenico Alberto
Published: January 2020

The Chieti Affective Action Videos (CAAV) is a new database designed for the experimental study of emotions in psychology. The main goal of the CAAV is to provide a wide range of standardized stimuli based on two emotional dimensions: valence and arousal. The CAAV is the first database to present emotional stimuli through videos of actions filmed and developed specifically for experimental research. 444 young adults were recruited to evaluate this database, which consisted of a sub-set of 90 actions filmed in four versions, for a total of 360 videos. The four versions differ based on the gender of the main actor (male or female) and in the perspective in which each action was shot (first-person or third-person). CAAV validation procedure highlighted a distribution of different stimuli based on valence and arousal indexes. The material provided by CAAV can be used in future experimental studies investigating the role of emotions, perception, attention, and memory in addition to the study of differences between gender and perspective taking.
Enzyme activities during Benzo[a]pyrene degradation by the fungus Lasiodiplodia theobromae isolated from a polluted soil
Authors: Cao Huimin , Wang Cuiping , Liu Haibin , Jia Weili , Sun Hongwen
Published: January 2020

The enzyme activities of the fungus Lasiodiplodia theobromae (L. theobromae) were studied during degradation of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP). The L. theobromae was isolated from a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contaminated soil collected from the Beijing Coking Plant in China and can potentially use BaP as its sole carbon source with a degradation ratio of up to 53% over 10 days. The activities of lignin peroxidase (LiP) and laccase (LAC) could be detected during BaP biodegradation; while manganese peroxidase (MnP) was not detected. Both glucose and salicylic acid enhanced BaP biodegradation slightly. In contrast, the coexistence of phenanthrene (PHE) inhibited BaP degradation. These metabolic substrates all enhanced the secretion of LiP and LAC. The addition of Tween 80 (TW-80) enhanced BaP biodegradation as well as the LiP and LAC activities. At the same time, TW-80 was degraded by the L. theobromae. In addition, the L. theobromae was compared to Phanerochaete chrysosporium (P. chrysosporium), which is a widely studied fungus for degrading PAH. P. chrysosporium was unable to use BaP as its sole carbon source. The activities of LiP and LAC produced by the P. chrysosporium were less than those of the L. theobromae. Additionally, the four intermediates formed in the BaP biodegradation process were monitored using GC-MS analysis. Four metabolite concentrations first increased and then decreased or obtained the platform with prolonged BaP biodegradation time. Therefore, this study shows that the L. theobromae may be explored as a new strain for removing PAHs from the environment.
Aerobic capacity predict skeletal but not cardiac muscle damage after triathlon – the Iron(WO)man study
Authors: Danielsson Tom , Carlsson Jörg , Siethoff Lasse ten , Ahnesjö Jonas , Bergman Patrick
Published: January 2020

This study examines the association between aerobic capacity and biomarkers of skeletal- and cardiac muscle damage among amateur triathletes after a full distance Ironman. Men and women (N = 55) were recruited from local sport clubs. One month before an Ironman triathlon, they conducted a 20 m shuttle run test to determine aerobic capacity. Blood samples were taken immediately after finishing the triathlon, and analyzed for cardiac Troponin T (cTnT), Myosin heavy chain-a (MHC-a), N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), Creatin Kinas (CK), and Myoglobin. Regression models examining the association between the biomarkers and aerobic capacity expressed in both relative terms (mLO2*kg−1*min−1) and absolute terms (LO2*min−1) controlled for weight were fitted. A total of 39 subjects (26% females) had complete data and were included in the analysis. No association between aerobic capacity and cardiac muscle damage was observed. For myoglobin, adding aerobic capacity (mLO2*kg−1*min−1) increased the adjusted r2 from 0.026 to 0.210 (F: 8.927, p = 0.005) and for CK the adjusted r2 increased from -0.015 to 0.267 (F: 13.778, p = 0.001). In the models where aerobic capacity was entered in absolute terms the adjusted r2 increased from 0.07 to 0.227 (F: 10.386, p = 0.003) for myoglobin and for CK from -0.029 to 0.281 (F: 15.215, p < 0.001). A negative association between aerobic capacity and skeletal muscle damage was seen but despite the well-known cardio-protective health effect of high aerobic fitness, no such association could be observed in this study.
Describing the fecal metabolome in cryogenically collected samples from healthy participants
Authors: Trošt Kajetan , Ahonen Linda , Suvitaival Tommi , Christiansen Nina , Nielsen Trine , Thiele Maja , Jacobsen Suganya , Krag Aleksander , Rossing Peter , Hansen Torben , Dragsted Lars Ove , Legido-Quigley Cristina
Published: January 2020

The chemical composition of feces plays an important role in human metabolism. Metabolomics and lipidomics are valuable tools for screening the metabolite composition in feces. Here we set out to describe fecal metabolite composition in healthy participants in frozen stools. Frozen stool samples were collected from 10 healthy volunteers and cryogenically drilled in four areas along the specimen. Polar metabolites were analyzed using derivatization followed by two-dimensional gas chromatography and time of flight mass spectrometry. Lipids were detected using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry. 2326 metabolic features were detected. Out of a total of 298 metabolites that were annotated we report here 185 that showed a technical variation of x < 30%. These metabolites included amino acids, fatty acid derivatives, carboxylic acids and phenolic compounds. Lipids predominantly belonged to the groups of diacylglycerols, triacylglycerols and ceramides. Metabolites varied between sampling areas, some were broadly homogeneous, others varied 80%. A LASSO-computed network using metabolites present in all areas showed two main clusters describing the system, DAG lipids and phenyllactic acid. In feces from healthy participants, the main groups detected were phenolic compounds, ceramides, diacylglycerols and triacylglycerols.