bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projected Effects of Temperature and Precipitation Variability Change on Streamflow Patterns Using a Functional Flows Approach
Authors: Patterson Noelle K. , Lane Belize A. , Sandoval‐Solis Samuel , Persad Geeta G. , Ortiz‐Partida J. Pablo
Published: June 2022

Streamflow patterns are shifting with climate change, and these shifts pose increasing risk to freshwater ecosystems. These emerging changes must be linked with ecological functions of river systems to understand how climate change may affect freshwater biota. In this study we used a functional flows approach to analyze the ecological effects of changing streamflow patterns in snowmelt‐dominated watersheds of the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. Our climate change modeling method combined ensemble Global Climate Models (GCMs) and decision scaling methods to incorporate the effects of GCM‐projected changes in precipitation variability on streamflow patterns. Of climate parameters explored, air temperature causes the most change in functional flows, although precipitation variability compounds changes driven by air temperature. The greatest changes in ecologically‐relevant streamflow patterns manifest as longer and drier dry season conditions, earlier snowmelt recession, and higher‐magnitude peak flows. Although the directions of changes in functional flow metrics are largely consistent across models and watersheds, the magnitude of change depends strongly on human emissions levels. The analytical approach used in this study can serve as a model for integrating multiple approaches in hydroclimatic assessment of ecological change, and the results can help prioritize specific aspects of the flow regime for restoration efforts.
Improved Surface Mass Balance Closure in Ocean Hindcast Simulations
Authors: Harrison Matthew , Adcroft Alistair , Hallberg Robert , Sergienko Olga
Published: June 2022

Forced global ocean/sea‐ice hindcast simulations are subject to persistent surface mass flux estimation biases, for example, configurations with an explicit‐free surface may not take into account the seasonal storage of water on land when constraining sea level. We present a physically motivated surface mass flux closure, that results in: reduced watermass drift from initialization; improved Atlantic meridional overturning cirulation intensity; and more realistic rates of ocean heat uptake, in simulations using global ocean/sea‐ice/land (MOM6/SIS2/LM3) model configurations, forced with atmospheric reanalysis data. In addition to accounting for the land storage, the area‐integrated subpolar‐to‐polar (40°–90°N/S) surface mass fluxes are constrained, using a climatological estimate derived from the the CMIP6 historical ensemble, which helps to further improve hindcast performance. Simulations using MERRA‐2 and JRA55‐do forcing, subject to identical hydrologic constraints, exhibit similar reductions in drift.
Locally Relevant High‐Resolution Hydrodynamic Modeling of River Floods at the Regional Scale
Authors: Buttinger‐Kreuzhuber Andreas , Waser Jürgen , Cornel Daniel , Horváth Zsolt , Konev Artem , Wimmer Michael H. , Komma Jürgen , Blöschl Günter
Published: June 2022

This paper deals with the simulation of inundated areas for a region of 84,000 km2 from estimated flood discharges at a resolution of 2 m. We develop a modeling framework that enables efficient parallel processing of the project region by splitting it into simulation tiles. For each simulation tile, the framework automatically calculates all input data and boundary conditions required for the hydraulic simulation on‐the‐fly. A novel method is proposed that ensures regionally consistent flood peak probabilities. Instead of simulating individual events, the framework simulates effective hydrographs consistent with the flood quantiles by adjusting streamflow at river nodes. The model accounts for local effects from buildings, culverts, levees, and retention basins. The two‐dimensional full shallow water equations are solved by a second‐order accurate scheme for all river reaches in Austria with catchment sizes over 10 km2, totaling 33,380 km. Using graphics processing units (GPUs), a single NVIDIA Titan RTX simulates a period of 3 days for a tile with 50 million wet cells in less than 3 days. We find good agreement between simulated and measured stage–discharge relationships at gauges. The simulated flood hazard maps also compare well with local high‐quality flood maps, achieving critical success index scores of 0.6–0.79.
Study of the Air‐Sea Momentum Flux of the Coastal Marine Boundary Layer During Typhoons
Authors: Li Qilong , Cheng Xueling , Zeng Xiaodong , Zhou Guangqing , Huang Jian , Wu Lin , Zeng Qingcun
Published: June 2022

We analyzed the variations in the mean wind field, turbulence, and turbulent flux of three typhoons using observational data obtained from an offshore monitoring platform. The turbulent fluctuation intensity and friction velocity are found to increase with wind speed both before and after landfall with two different relationships as two distinct branches on the turbulence‐wind diagram. Turbulent fluctuation intensity is found to decrease with increasing wind speed during landfall because of the transition of land‐based turbulence to sea‐based turbulence. The relationships between the friction velocity and drag coefficient and the wind speed were similarly affected by whether the typhoon makes landfall, and the relative position of the landfall site of the typhoon to the observation site.
Matrix Approach to Land Carbon Cycle Modeling
Authors: Luo Yiqi , Huang Yuanyuan , Sierra Carlos A. , Xia Jianyang , Ahlström Anders , Chen Yizhao , Hararuk Oleksandra , Hou Enqing , Jiang Lifen , Liao Cuijuan , Lu Xingjie , Shi Zheng , Smith Benjamin , Tao Feng , Wang Ying‐Ping
Published: June 2022

Land ecosystems contribute to climate change mitigation by taking up approximately 30% of anthropogenically emitted carbon. However, estimates of the amount and distribution of carbon uptake across the world's ecosystems or biomes display great uncertainty. The latter hinders a full understanding of the mechanisms and drivers of land carbon uptake, and predictions of the future fate of the land carbon sink. The latter is needed as evidence to inform climate mitigation strategies such as afforestation schemes. To advance land carbon cycle modeling, we have developed a matrix approach. Land carbon cycle models use carbon balance equations to represent carbon exchanges among pools. Our approach organizes this set of equations into a single matrix equation without altering any processes of the original model. The matrix equation enables the development of a theoretical framework for understanding the general, transient behavior of the land carbon cycle. While carbon input and residence time are used to quantify carbon storage capacity at steady state, a third quantity, carbon storage potential, integrates fluxes with time to define dynamic disequilibrium of the carbon cycle under global change. The matrix approach can help address critical contemporary issues in modeling, including pinpointing sources of model uncertainty and accelerating spin‐up of land carbon cycle models by tens of times. The accelerated spin‐up liberates models from the computational burden that hinders comprehensive parameter sensitivity analysis and assimilation of observational data to improve model accuracy. Such computational efficiency offered by the matrix approach enables substantial improvement of model predictions using ever‐increasing data availability. Overall, the matrix approach offers a step change forward for understanding and modeling the land carbon cycle.
From Soils to Streams: Connecting Terrestrial Carbon Transformation, Chemical Weathering, and Solute Export Across Hydrological Regimes
Authors: Wen Hang , Sullivan Pamela L. , Billings Sharon A. , Ajami Hoori , Cueva Alejandro , Flores Alejandro , Hirmas Daniel R. , Koop Aaron N. , Murenbeeld Katie , Zhang Xi , Li Li
Published: June 2022

Soil biota generates carbon that exports vertically to the atmosphere (CO2) and transports laterally to streams and rivers (dissolved organic and inorganic carbon, DOC and DIC). These processes, together with chemical weathering, vary with flow paths across hydrological regimes; yet an integrated understanding of these interactive processes is still lacking. Here we ask: How and to what extent do subsurface carbon transformation, chemical weathering, and solute export differ across hydrological and subsurface structure regimes? We address this question using a hillslope reactive transport model calibrated using soil CO2 and water chemistry data from Fitch, a temperate forest at the ecotone boundary of the Eastern temperate forest and mid‐continent grasslands in Kansas, USA. Model results show that droughts (discharge at 0.08 mm/day) promoted deeper flow paths, longer water transit time, carbonate precipitation, and mineralization of organic carbon (OC) into inorganic carbon (IC) (∼98% of OC). Of the IC produced, ∼86% was emitted upward as CO2 gas and ∼14% was exported laterally as DIC into the stream. Storms (8.0 mm/day) led to carbonate dissolution but reduced OC mineralization (∼88% of OC) and promoted DOC production (∼12% of OC) and lateral fluxes of IC (∼53% of produced IC). Differences in shallow‐versus‐deep permeability contrasts led to smaller difference (<10%) than discharge‐induced differences and were most pronounced under wet conditions. High permeability contrasts (low vertical connectivity) enhanced lateral fluxes. Model results generally delineate hillslopes as active CO2 producers and vertical carbon transporters under dry conditions, and as active DOC producers and lateral carbon transporter under wet conditions.
Environmentally friendly Fe3+-activated near-infrared-emitting phosphors for spectroscopic analysis
Authors: Wang Jing
Published: June 2022

Highly efficient Fe3+-activated Sr2-yCay(InSb)1-zSn2zO6 broadband near-infrared-emitting phosphors with tunable emission from 885 to 1005 nm are developed as alternative for primarily studed toxic Cr3+-activated near-infrared-emitting phosphors for application in spectroscopy analysis.
Augmented pain inhibition and higher integration of pain modulatory brain networks in women with self-injury behavior
Authors: Lalouni Maria , Fust Jens , Bjureberg Johan , Kastrati Gránit , Fondberg Robin , Fransson Peter , Jayaram-Lindström Nitya , Kosek Eva , Hellner Clara , Jensen Karin B.
Published: June 2022

Individuals who engage in nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) have demonstrated insensitivity to pain compared with individuals without NSSI. Yet, the neural mechanisms behind this difference are unknown. The objective of the present study was to determine which aspects of the pain regulatory system that account for this decreased sensitivity to pain. In a case–control design, 81 women, aged 18–35 (mean [SD] age, 23.4 [3.9]), were included (41 with NSSI and 40 healthy controls). A quantitative sensory testing protocol, including heat pain thresholds, heat pain tolerance, pressure pain thresholds, conditioned pain modulation (assessing central down-regulation of pain), and temporal summation (assessing facilitation of pain signals) was used. Pain-evoked brain responses were assessed by means of fMRI scanning during thermal pain. NSSI participants showed a more effective central down-regulation of pain, compared to controls, assessed with conditioned pain modulation. The neural responses to painful stimulation revealed a stronger relation between nociceptive and pain modulatory brain regions in NSSI compared to controls. In line with previous studies, pressure and heat pain thresholds were higher in participants with NSSI, however, there were no correlations between pain outcomes and NSSI clinical characteristics. The augmented pain inhibition and higher involvement of pain modulatory brain networks in NSSI may represent a pain insensitive endophenotype associated with a greater risk for developing self-injurious behavior.
Proteins associated with future suicide attempts in bipolar disorder: A large-scale biomarker discovery study
Authors: Sandberg Johan V. , Hansson Caroline , Göteson Andreas , Joas Erik , Jakobsson Joel , Pålsson Erik , Landén Mikael
Published: June 2022

Suicide is a major cause of death worldwide. Several biological systems have been implicated in suicidal behavior but studies of candidate biomarkers have failed to produce clinically relevant biomarkers for suicide prediction. The objective of the present study was to identify novel candidate biomarkers for suicidal behavior. We used a nested case-control study design where a large cohort of patients with bipolar disorder (N = 5 110) were followed up to 8 years after blood sampling. We included patients that attempted suicide during follow-up (N = 348) and matched bipolar disorder patients from the same cohort who did not attempt suicide during the study period (N = 348) and analyzed a total of 92 proteins with a neuro exploratory multiplex panel. Using a multivariate classification algorithm devised to minimize bias in variable selection, we identified a parsimonious set of proteins that best discriminated bipolar disorder patients with and without prospective suicide attempts. The algorithm selected 16 proteins for the minimal-optimal classification model, which outperformed 500 models with permuted outcome (p = 0.0004) but had low sensitivity (53%) and specificity (64%). The candidate proteins were then entered in separate logistic regression models to calculate protein-specific associations with prospective suicide attempts. In individual analyses, three of these proteins were significantly associated with prospective suicide attempt (SCGB1A1, ANXA10, and CETN2). Most of the candidate proteins are novel to suicide research.
RING finger 138 deregulation distorts NF-кB signaling and facilities colitis switch to aggressive malignancy
Authors: Lu Yalan , Huang Rong , Ying Jianming , Li Xingchen , Jiao Tao , Guo Lei , Zhou Haitao , Wang Han , Tuersuntuoheti Amannisa , Liu Jianmei , Chen Qichen , Wang Yanhong , Su Luying , Guo Changyuan , Xu Fu , Wang Ziyi , Lu Yan , Li Kai , Liang Junbo , Huang Zhen , Chen Xiao , Yao Jinjie , Hu Hanjie , Cheng Xiaowen , Wan Yufeng , Chen Xinyan , Zhang Ning , Miao Shiying , Cai Jianqiang , Wang Linfang , Liu Changzheng , Song Wei , Zhao Hong
Published: June 2022

Prolonged activation of nuclear factor (NF)-кB signaling significantly contributes to the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). New therapeutic opportunities are emerging from targeting this distorted cell signaling transduction. Here, we discovered the critical role of RING finger 138 (RNF138) in CRC tumorigenesis through regulating the NF-кB signaling, which is independent of its Ubiquitin-E3 ligase activity involved in DNA damage response. RNF138−/− mice were hyper-susceptible to the switch from colitis to aggressive malignancy, which coincided with sustained aberrant NF-кB signaling in the colonic cells. Furthermore, RNF138 suppresses the activation of NF-кB signaling pathway through preventing the translocation of NIK and IKK-Beta Binding Protein (NIBP) to the cytoplasm, which requires the ubiquitin interaction motif (UIM) domain. More importantly, we uncovered a significant correlation between poor prognosis and the downregulation of RNF138 associated with reinforced NF-кB signaling in clinical settings, raising the possibility of RNF138 dysregulation as an indicator for the therapeutic intervention targeting NF-кB signaling. Using the xenograft models built upon either RNF138-dificient CRC cells or the cells derived from the RNF138-dysregulated CRC patients, we demonstrated that the inhibition of NF-кB signaling effectively hampered tumor growth. Overall, our work defined the pathogenic role of aberrant NF-кB signaling due to RNF138 downregulation in the cascade events from the colitis switch to colonic neoplastic transformation and progression, and also highlights the possibility of targeting the NF-кB signaling in treating specific subtypes of CRC indicated by RNF138-ablation.
MNK2 deficiency potentiates β-cell regeneration via translational regulation
Authors: Karampelias Christos , Watt Kathleen , Mattsson Charlotte L. , Ruiz Ángel Fernández , Rezanejad Habib , Mi Jiarui , Liu Xiaojing , Chu Lianhe , Locasale Jason W. , Korbutt Gregory S. , Rovira Meritxell , Larsson Ola , Andersson Olov
Published: June 2022

Regenerating pancreatic β-cells is a potential curative approach for diabetes. We previously identified the small molecule CID661578 as a potent inducer of β-cell regeneration, but its target and mechanism of action have remained unknown. We now screened 257 million yeast clones and determined that CID661578 targets MAP kinase-interacting serine/threonine kinase 2 (MNK2), an interaction we genetically validated in vivo. CID661578 increased β-cell neogenesis from ductal cells in zebrafish, neonatal pig islet aggregates and human pancreatic ductal organoids. Mechanistically, we found that CID661578 boosts protein synthesis and regeneration by blocking MNK2 from binding eIF4G in the translation initiation complex at the mRNA cap. Unexpectedly, this blocking activity augmented eIF4E phosphorylation depending on MNK1 and bolstered the interaction between eIF4E and eIF4G, which is necessary for both hypertranslation and β-cell regeneration. Taken together, our findings demonstrate a targetable role of MNK2-controlled translation in β-cell regeneration, a role that warrants further investigation in diabetes.
Differential regulation of degradation and immune pathways underlies adaptation of the ectosymbiotic nematode Laxus oneistus to oxic-anoxic interfaces
Authors: Paredes Gabriela F. , Viehboeck Tobias , Markert Stephanie , Mausz Michaela A. , Sato Yui , Liebeke Manuel , König Lena , Bulgheresi Silvia
Published: June 2022

Eukaryotes may experience oxygen deprivation under both physiological and pathological conditions. Because oxygen shortage leads to a reduction in cellular energy production, all eukaryotes studied so far conserve energy by suppressing their metabolism. However, the molecular physiology of animals that naturally and repeatedly experience anoxia is underexplored. One such animal is the marine nematode Laxus oneistus. It thrives, invariably coated by its sulfur-oxidizing symbiont Candidatus Thiosymbion oneisti, in anoxic sulfidic or hypoxic sand. Here, transcriptomics and proteomics showed that, whether in anoxia or not, L. oneistus mostly expressed genes involved in ubiquitination, energy generation, oxidative stress response, immune response, development, and translation. Importantly, ubiquitination genes were also highly expressed when the nematode was subjected to anoxic sulfidic conditions, together with genes involved in autophagy, detoxification and ribosome biogenesis. We hypothesize that these degradation pathways were induced to recycle damaged cellular components (mitochondria) and misfolded proteins into nutrients. Remarkably, when L. oneistus was subjected to anoxic sulfidic conditions, lectin and mucin genes were also upregulated, potentially to promote the attachment of its thiotrophic symbiont. Furthermore, the nematode appeared to survive oxygen deprivation by using an alternative electron carrier (rhodoquinone) and acceptor (fumarate), to rewire the electron transfer chain. On the other hand, under hypoxia, genes involved in costly processes (e.g., amino acid biosynthesis, development, feeding, mating) were upregulated, together with the worm’s Toll-like innate immunity pathway and several immune effectors (e.g., bactericidal/permeability-increasing proteins, fungicides). In conclusion, we hypothesize that, in anoxic sulfidic sand, L. oneistus upregulates degradation processes, rewires the oxidative phosphorylation and reinforces its coat of bacterial sulfur-oxidizers. In upper sand layers, instead, it appears to produce broad-range antimicrobials and to exploit oxygen for biosynthesis and development.
Insights for crystal mush storage utilizing mafic enclaves from the 2011–12 Cordón Caulle eruption
Authors: Winslow Heather , Ruprecht Philipp , Gonnermann Helge M. , Phelps Patrick R. , Muñoz-Saez Carolina , Delgado Francisco , Pritchard Matthew , Amigo Alvaro
Published: June 2022

Two distinct types of rare crystal-rich mafic enclaves have been identified in the rhyolite lava flow from the 2011–12 Cordón Caulle eruption (Southern Andean Volcanic Zone, SVZ). The majority of mafic enclaves are coarsely crystalline with interlocking olivine-clinopyroxene-plagioclase textures and irregular shaped vesicles filling the crystal framework. These enclaves are interpreted as pieces of crystal-rich magma mush underlying a crystal-poor rhyolitic magma body that has fed recent silicic eruptions at Cordón Caulle. A second type of porphyritic enclaves, with restricted mineral chemistry and spherical vesicles, represents small-volume injections into the rhyolite magma. Both types of enclaves are basaltic end-members (up to 9.3 wt% MgO and 50–53 wt% SiO2) in comparison to enclaves erupted globally. The Cordón Caulle enclaves also have one of the largest compositional gaps on record between the basaltic enclaves and the rhyolite host at 17 wt% SiO2. Interstitial melt in the coarsely-crystalline enclaves is compositionally identical to their rhyolitic host, suggesting that the crystal-poor rhyolite magma was derived directly from the underlying basaltic magma mush through efficient melt extraction. We suggest the 2011–12 rhyolitic eruption was generated from a primitive basaltic crystal-rich mush that short-circuited the typical full range of magmatic differentiation in a single step.
Conditioned taste aversion in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Lyu Hui , Mizunami Makoto
Published: June 2022

Conditioned taste aversion (CTA) is a form of classical conditioning in which animals associate the taste of a food with illness caused by toxin contained in the food. CTA in mammals is achieved with a long interval of up to several hours between food ingestion and illness induced by LiCl injection. Insects also exhibit CTA, but not much is known about its features. We investigated whether the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus exhibits CTA when ingestion of a sugar solution is followed by LiCl injection. Crickets that ingested sucrose solution 5–10 min before LiCl injection exhibited reduction of sucrose consumption tested 24 or 48 h after injection compared to that tested 24 h before injection. In contrast, crickets that ingested sucrose solution 5–10 min after LiCl injection or 1 h or 8 h before or after injection did not exhibit reduction of sucrose consumption, indicating that reduction of sucrose consumption by CTA training is pairing-specific. We conclude that CTA in crickets is similar to that in mammals in that one-trial pairing is sufficient to achieve memory retention for days, but it differs in that it is achieved with a relatively short interval (< 1 h) between food ingestion and toxin injection.
Examination of diverse iron-chelating agents for the protection of differentiated PC12 cells against oxidative injury induced by 6-hydroxydopamine and dopamine
Authors: Hašková Pavlína , Applová Lenka , Jansová Hana , Homola Pavel , Franz Katherine J. , Vávrová Kateřina , Roh Jaroslav , Šimůnek Tomáš
Published: June 2022

Labile redox-active iron ions have been implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders, including the Parkinson's disease (PD). Iron chelation has been successfully used in clinical practice to manage iron overload in diseases such as thalassemia major; however, the use of conventional iron chelators in pathological states without systemic iron overload remains at the preclinical investigative level and is complicated by the risk of adverse outcomes due to systemic iron depletion. In this study, we examined three clinically-used chelators, namely, desferrioxamine, deferiprone and deferasirox and compared them with experimental agent salicylaldehyde isonicotinoyl hydrazone (SIH) and its boronate-masked prochelator BSIH for protection of differentiated PC12 cells against the toxicity of catecholamines 6-hydroxydopamine and dopamine and their oxidation products. All the assayed chelating agents were able to significantly reduce the catecholamine toxicity in a dose-dependent manner. Whereas hydrophilic chelator desferrioxamine exerted protection only at high and clinically unachievable concentrations, deferiprone and deferasirox significantly reduced the catecholamine neurotoxicity at concentrations that are within their plasma levels following standard dosage. SIH was the most effective iron chelator to protect the cells with the lowest own toxicity of all the assayed conventional chelators. This favorable feature was even more pronounced in prochelator BSIH that does not chelate iron unless its protective group is cleaved in disease-specific oxidative stress conditions. Hence, this study demonstrated that while iron chelation may have general neuroprotective potential against catecholamine auto-oxidation and toxicity, SIH and BSIH represent promising lead molecules and warrant further studies in more complex animal models.
Magnetic order and disorder environments in superantiferromagnetic $$\hbox {NdCu}_{\mathbf{2}}$$ nanoparticles
Authors: Jefremovas E. M. , Svedlindh P. , Damay F. , Alba Venero D. , Michels A. , Blanco J. A. , Fernández Barquín L.
Published: June 2022

Magnetic nanoparticles exhibit two different local symmetry environments, one ascribed to the core and one corresponding to the nanoparticle surface. This implies the existence of a dual spin dynamics, leading to the presence of two different magnetic arrangements governed by different correlation lengths. In this work, two ensembles of $$\hbox {NdCu}_{2}$$

NdCu
2

nanoparticles with mean sizes of 18 nm and 13 nm have been produced to unravel the magnetic couplings established among the magnetic moments located within the core and at the nanoparticle surface. To this end, we have combined neutron diffraction measurements, appropriate to investigate magnetically-ordered spin arrangements, with time-dependent macroscopic AC susceptibility measurements to reveal memory and aging effects. The observation of the latter phenomena are indicative of magnetically-frustrated states. The obtained results indicate that, while the $$\hbox {Nd}^{3{+}}$$

Nd

3
+

magnetic moments located within the nanoparticle core keep the bulk antiferromagnetic commensurate structure in the whole magnetic state, the correlations among the surface spins give rise to a collective frustrated spin-glass phase. The interpretation of the magnetic structure of the nanoparticles is complemented by specific-heat measurements, which further support the lack of incommensurability in the nanoparticle state.
Global assessment of spatiotemporal variability of wet, normal and dry conditions using multiscale entropy-based approach
Authors: Sreeparvathy Vijay , Srinivas V. V.
Published: June 2022

In recent decades, human-induced climate change has caused a worldwide increase in the frequency/intensity/duration of extreme events, resulting in enormous disruptions to life and property. Hence, a comprehensive understanding of global-scale spatiotemporal trends and variability of extreme events at different intensity levels (e.g., moderate/severe/extreme) and durations (e.g., short-term/long-term) of normal, dry and wet conditions is essential in predicting/forecasting/mitigating future extreme events. This article analyses these aspects using estimates of a non-stationary standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index corresponding to different accumulation periods for 0.5° resolution CRU grids at globe-scale. Results are analyzed with respect to changes in land-use/landcover and geographic/location indicators (latitude, longitude, elevation) at different time scales (decadal/annual/seasonal/monthly) for each continent. The analysis showed an (i) increasing trend in the frequency/count of both dry and wet conditions and variability of dry conditions, and (ii) contrasting (decreasing) trend in the variability of wet conditions, possibly due to climate change-induced variations in atmospheric circulations. Globally, the highest variability in the wet and dry conditions is found during the Northern hemisphere's winter season. The decadal-scale analysis showed that change in variability in dry and wet conditions has been predominant since the 1930s and 1950s, respectively and is found to be increasing in recent decades.
Waveform changes of laser speckle flowgraphy in the temporal optic nerve head and peripapillary atrophy after trabeculectomy in open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Sasaki Makoto , Higashide Tomomi , Takeshima Satoshi , Takamatsu Yuki , Manbo Yoshimi , Udagawa Sachiko , Sugiyama Kazuhisa
Published: June 2022

A prospective study was conducted on 33 eyes of 33 patients with open-angle glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy to investigate hemodynamic changes in the temporal optic nerve head (ONH) and peripapillary atrophy (PPA) after trabeculectomy. Laser speckle flowgraphy of ONH and PPA was performed at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The waveforms of the mean blur rate in the tissue area (MT) in the temporal ONH, βPPA (with Bruch’s membrane), and γPPA (without Bruch’s membrane) were evaluated. Mean intra-ocular pressure (IOP) decreased from 19.1 ± 0.8 to 8.5–9.6 ± 0.7 mmHg at postoperative visits. The average MT in the βPPA region increased significantly at all postoperative time points, whereas those in the ONH and γPPA regions remained unchanged. The blowout score (BOS) increased significantly, and the resistivity index decreased significantly at all time points in all regions, which was associated with decreased IOP. The current study showed two novel findings: MT increased after trabeculectomy only in βPPA, where the choroid was present. IOP decrease-associated BOS increase occurred postoperatively in all regions, which indicates that IOP reduction may decrease vascular transmural pressure and contribute to stable blood flow uniformly, despite structural differences between the regions.
New site at Olduvai Gorge (AGS, Bed I, 1.84 Mya) widens the range of locations where hominins engaged in butchery
Authors: Stancampiano Lavinia M. , Sistiaga Ainara , del Val David Uribelarrea , Aramendi Julia , Baquedano Enrique , Mabulla Audax , Domínguez-Rodrigo Manuel , Magill Clayton R.
Published: June 2022

Outstanding questions about human evolution include systematic connections between critical landscape resources—such as water and food—and how these shaped the competitive and biodiverse environment(s) that our ancestors inhabited. Here, we report fossil n-alkyl lipid biomarkers and their associated δ13C values across a newly discovered Olduvai Gorge site (AGS) dated to 1.84 million years ago, enabling a multiproxy analysis of the distributions of critical local landscape resources across an explicit locus of hominin activity. Our results reveal that AGS was a seasonally waterlogged, largely unvegetated lakeside site situated near an ephemeral freshwater river surrounded by arid-adapted C4 grasses. The sparse vegetation at AGS contrasts with reconstructed (micro)habitats at the other anthropogenic sites at Olduvai Gorge, suggesting that central-provisioning places depended more heavily on water access than vegetation viz. woody plants as is often observed for modern hunter-gatherers. As hominins at AGS performed similar butchering activities as at other Bed I sites, our results suggest they did not need the shelter of trees and thus occupied a competitive position within the predatory guild.
Watching Parkinson’s disease with wrist-based sensors
Authors: Diao James A. , Raza Marium M. , Venkatesh Kaushik P. , Kvedar Joseph C.
Published: June 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) lacks sensitive, objective, and reliable measures for disease progression and response. This presents a challenge for clinical trials given the multifaceted and fluctuating nature of PD symptoms. Innovations in digital health and wearable sensors promise to more precisely measure aspects of patient function and well-being. Beyond research trials, digital biomarkers and clinical outcome assessments may someday support clinician-initiated or closed-loop treatment adjustments. A recent study from Verily Life Sciences presents results for a smartwatch-based motor exam intended to accelerate the development and evaluation of therapies for PD.
Lead removal at trace concentrations from water by inactive yeast cells
Authors: Stathatou Patritsia M. , Athanasiou Christos E. , Tsezos Marios , Goss John W. , Blackburn L. Camron , Tourlomousis Filippos , Mershin Andreas , Sheldon Brian W. , Padture Nitin P. , Darling Eric M. , Gao Huajian , Gershenfeld Neil
Published: June 2022

Traces of heavy metals found in water resources, due to mining activities and e-waste discharge, pose a global threat. Conventional treatment processes fail to remove toxic heavy metals, such as lead, from drinking water in a resource-efficient manner when their initial concentrations are low. Here, we show that by using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae we can effectively remove trace lead from water via a rapid mass transfer process, called biosorption, achieving an uptake of up to 12 mg lead per gram of biomass in solutions with initial lead concentrations below 1 part per million. Through spectroscopic analyses, we found that the yeast cell wall plays a crucial role in this process, with its mannoproteins and β-glucans being the key potential lead adsorbents. Furthermore, by employing nanomechanical characterization in the yeast biomass, we discovered that biosorption is linked to an increase in cell wall stiffness. These findings open new opportunities for using environmentally friendly and abundant biomaterials for advanced water treatment targeting emerging contaminants.
Synthesis of cyclic α-pinane carbonate – a potential monomer for bio-based polymers
Authors: Eze Valentine C. , Rehman Abdul , Patel Manthan , Ahmad Sajjad , Harvey Adam P.
Published: June 2022

Synthesis of α-pinane carbonate from an α-pinene derivative.
Solid phase wax coating of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to decrease its solubility profile as a ready to mix supplement
Authors: Madarshahian Sara , Enayati Mojtaba , Vinyes Parés Gerard , Ufheil Gerhard , Abbaspourrad Alireza
Published: June 2022

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) has significant health benefits. Wax coating is applied to granules, crystals, and powdered NAC to make it more palatable by delaying its release in water.
Intermolecular interactions in the solid-state structures of isoflavones: the relationship between supramolecular structure, torsion angle, and macroscopic properties
Authors: Sperlich Eric , Kelling Alexandra , Kwesiga George , Schmidt Bernd
Published: June 2022

The different macroscopic properties of closely related isoflavones were associated with the occurrence of intermolecular interactions and different torsion angles in the solid-state.
Combined computational/experimental investigation of new cocrystals of the drug bosentan
Authors: Barbas Rafael , Portell Anna , Hunter Christopher A. , Prohens Rafel , Frontera Antonio
Published: June 2022

This manuscript reports the discovery of new cocrystals of bosentan, a drug used in the treatment of pulmonary artery hypertension,viaa combined virtual/experimental cocrystal screening.
Electronic modulation of cobalt phosphide by lanthanum doping for efficient overall water splitting in alkaline media
Authors: Kim Daekyu , Yuan Yuan , Lee Lawrence Yoon Suk
Published: June 2022

The La-doping regulates the electronic structure of CoP, promoting its HER and OER activities. A La–CoP-based water electrolyzer requires a cell voltage of 1.608 V at 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline media, which outperforms a noble metal-based electrolyzer.
Effect of unwanted guest molecules on the stacking configuration of covalent organic frameworks: a periodic energy decomposition analysis
Authors: Wonanke A. D. Dinga , Addicoat Matthew A.
Published: June 2022

Periodic energy decomposition analysis shows the accuracy of GFN-xTB vs. PBE-D3/TZ2P for the PES of empty and guest-containing COF-1.
Structural correlations in highly asymmetric binary charged colloidal mixtures
Authors: Allahyarov Elshad , Löwen Hartmut , Denton Alan R.
Published: June 2022

An effective Gaussian-like attractive potential between the small macroions is detected in strongly asymmetric like charge macroion mixtures using primitive model simulations with explicit counterions.
GaN/MgI2 van der Waals heterostructure: a two-factor tunable photocatalyst for hydrogen evolution
Authors: Zhu Hua , Shen Yang , Fang Qianglong , Yang Xiaodong , Chen Liang , Xu Shiqing
Published: June 2022

The electronic and optical properties (band structure, electric field, absorption spectrum, and band edge positions) of GaN/MgI2 heterostructures can be tuned by different atomic top positions and different numbers of GaN layers.
Tailored anharmonic–harmonic vibrational profiles for fluorescent biomarkers
Authors: Nguyen Thi Minh Nghia , König Carolin
Published: June 2022

Combination of Franck–Condon factors from reduced-space anharmonic vibrational wave functions with an harmonic description of the remaining vibrational space enables accurate, yet feasible computation of vibrational line shapes of fluorescent dyes.
Computational mechanistic insights on Ag2O as a host for Li in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Priyadarshini C. Hepsibah , Sudha V. , Harinipriya S.
Published: June 2022

Schematic representation of the lithiation mechanism in Ag2O with one and two Li atoms per unit cell as evidenced from DFT study and MD simulations.
Desulfurization mechanism of thioether compounds in heavy oil on the (111) surface of inverse spinel Fe3O4
Authors: Li Chen , Zhao Mengmeng , Wang Xing , Fang Zheng , Chen Yanling , Bao Haifeng
Published: June 2022

The desulfurization of thioethers in heavy oil on the Fe3O4(111) surface follows an ER mechanism. It is a feasible reaction with a low energy barrier of 0.667 eV.
Pegylated metal-free and zinc(ii) phthalocyanines: synthesis, photophysicochemical properties andin vitrophotodynamic activities against head, neck and colon cancer cell lines
Authors: Akkoç Berkay , Samsunlu Taylan , Işık Şeyma , Özçeşmeci Mukaddes , Atmaca Göknur Yaşa , Erdoğmuş Ali , Serhatlı Müge , Hamuryudan Esin
Published: June 2022

PDT activities of water-soluble Pcs, which were synthesized and characterized in this study, were tested within vitrostudies on different cancer cell lines. According to the results, they are alternative structures in the PDT applications.
One-dimensional N-doped carbon nanofibers produced by pre-oxide treatment for effective lithium storage
Authors: Song Wei , Shi Ruina , Zhang Lixin , Gao Tiantian , Lian Wenhao , Liu Kankan , Niu Xueting , Wu Yuqi , Nie Kangrui
Published: June 2022

One-dimensional N-doped carbon nanofibers with a high level of nitrogen concentration were produced by electrospinning technology and subsequent pre-oxidation treatment to achieve effective lithium storage.
Review of metal oxides as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Du Jiakai , Li Qingmeng , Chai Jiali , Jiang Lei , Zhang Qianqian , Han Ning , Zhang Wei , Tang Bohejin
Published: June 2022

Lithium-ion batteries with a stable circulation capacity, high energy density and good safety are widely used in automobiles, mobile phones, manufacturing and other fields.
Best Papers from 2021 published in the Environmental Science journals of the Royal Society of Chemistry
Authors: Novak Paige J. , Donahue Neil M. , McNeill Kristopher , Vikesland Peter J.
Published: June 2022

The Editors-in-Chief of the Environmental Science journals introduce the Best Papers of 2021.
High photoluminescence quantum yield near-infrared emission from a lead-free ytterbium-doped double perovskite
Authors: Tran Minh N. , Cleveland Iver J. , Geniesse Joseph R. , Aydil Eray S.
Published: June 2022

Yb3+ ions substitute into Cs2AgBiBr6, specifically into the AgBr65− and/or BiBr63− octahedra, leading to a lead-free halide perovskite that converts UV and blue photons to near infrared photons with record 82.5% photoluminescence quantum yield.
Growing Co–Ni–Se nanosheets on 3D carbon frameworks as advanced dual functional electrodes for supercapacitors and sodium ion batteries
Authors: Gao Mingyue , Xue Yanchun , Zhang Yutang , Zhu Chengxing , Yu Haiwei , Guo Xingmei , Sun Shasha , Xiong Shenglin , Kong Qinghong , Zhang Junhao
Published: June 2022

The reasonable design of electrode materials is crucial for tuning the electrochemical performances of advanced energy storage systems.
Correction: Pd-Catalyzed alkynyl aryl iodide cyclization/alkylation with cyclobutanols
Authors: Zhou Ping-Xin , Yang Xiaozhe , Du Xueyan , Zhao Shujie , Wang Han , Tan Xinqiang , Wang Jia , Liang Yong-Min
Published: June 2022

Correction for ‘Pd-Catalyzed alkynyl aryl iodide cyclization/alkylation with cyclobutanols’ by Ping-Xin Zhou et al., Org. Chem. Front., 2022, 9, 2606–2611, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2QO00180B.
Doping-engineered biphenylene as a metal-free electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Hao Jinbo , Zhao Zhengqin , Chen Changcheng , Zhang Chunling , Li Long , Gao Shuli , Jia Baonan , Lu Pengfei
Published: June 2022

The optimal hydrogen evolution reaction can be achieved with P doping at the β-sites of BPN.
Double gradient composite dielectric with high energy density and efficiency
Authors: Shang Yanan , Feng Yu , Zhang Changhai , Zhang Tiandong , Lei Qingquan , Chi Qingguo
Published: June 2022

By reasonably adjusting two-dimensional filler double gradient distribution, the restrictive relationship between breakdown strength and dielectric constant is balanced, and the synergistic improvement of breakdown and polarization is realized.
An amyloid-like proteinaceous adsorbent for uranium extraction from aqueous medium
Authors: Yang Qingmin , Zhao Jian , Muhammad Arif , Qin Rongrong , Tian Juanhua , Li Ling , Zhang Qianhui , Chen Lixin , Yang Peng
Published: June 2022

A proteinaceous uranium ion adsorbent with good adsorption capacity, biocompatibility and enzymatic degradability has been simply prepared under aqueous conditions without using toxic additives through a phase transition process.
Composites of cross-linked perovskite/polymer with sodium borate for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Jo Bonghyun , Han Gill Sang , Yu Hyang Mi , Choi Jinheok , Zhu Jun , Ahn Tae Kyu , Namkoong Gon , Jung Hyun Suk
Published: June 2022

To solve facile degradation of perovskite absorbers, the anti-solvent dripping method with the polymer/alkali salt mixture is proposed, providing enhanced hydrogen-bond formation, thereby remarkably improving the device performance and stability.
Organic-conjugated polyanthraquinonylimide cathodes for rechargeable magnesium batteries
Authors: Ding Yiyuan , Chen Dong , Ren Xin , Cao Yuliang , Xu Fei
Published: June 2022

Polyanthraquinonylimides (PAQIs) are used as cathodes for rechargeable magnesium batteries. Large conjugated structure favors high capacity, stable cycling and good rate capability. PAQIs store Mg2+and deliver a power density of 2780 W kg−1.
Water-driven boost in the visible light photocatalytic performance of Cs2AgBiBr6 double perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Fan Qianqian , Wei Siying , Ma Jianzhong , Zhang Wenbo , Wen Lu
Published: June 2022

In this work, a unique Cs2AgBiBr6/BiOBr composite was found in water soaked Cs2AgBiBr6 NCs, which was further diagnosed as Z-type heterojunction to boost the photocatalytic process.
Modulating surface charges of bismuth tantalum oxychloride nanoplates for promoting photogenerated charge separation
Authors: Adenle Abraham , Shi Ming , Jiang Wenchao , Zeng Bin , Li Can , Li Rengui
Published: June 2022

Modulation of anisotropic facets and surface charge properties of semiconductor photocatalysts play significant roles in accelerating the photogenerated charge separation in heterogeneous photocatalysis.
A new class of battery-free, mechanically powered, piezoelectric Ca5Ga6O14:Tb3+ phosphors with self-recoverable luminescence
Authors: Hu Tao , Gao Yan , Wang Bo , Yu Ting , Wen Dawei , Cheng Yao , Zeng Qingguang
Published: June 2022

A new class of Ca5Ga6O14:Tb3+ mechanoluminescent phosphors with trap-independent, self-recoverable mechanoluminescence and a low mechanical stimulus threshold are reported, whose properties originate from piezoelectricity of the host with giant piezoelectric coefficients.
Putting xenon and nitrogen under pressure: towards new layered and two-dimensional nitrogen allotropes with crown ether-like nanopores
Authors: Wang Busheng , Guégan Frédéric , Frapper Gilles
Published: June 2022

Metastable xenon@polynitrogen compounds may be viable under pressure, and layered polynitrogen allotropes persist to ambient pressure and up to 600 K on decompression after the removal of noble gas.
A capture and inactivation system against pathogens in indoor air using copper nanoparticle decorated melamine sponge hybrid air filters
Authors: Le Van Cam Thi , Yoon Soyeong , Kang Eunsil , Sheraz Mahshab , Han Tae Uk , Anus Ali , Mai Hien Duy , Choi Sung-chan , Kim Seungdo
Published: June 2022

Development of a multifunctional and reusable air filter as a capture-and-disinfection system to kill pathogens in a single-pass air flow.
G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 4 causes renal angiotensin II type 2 receptor dysfunction by increasing its phosphorylation
Authors: Zhang Fuwei , Lei Lifu , Huang Juan , Wang Weiwei , Su Qian , Yan Hongjia , Chen Caiyu , Zheng Shuo , Ren Hongmei , Li Zhuxin , Jose Pedro A. , Hu Yijie , Si Liangyi , Zeng Chunyu , Yang Jian
Published: June 2022

Activation of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) induces diuresis and natriuresis. Increased expression or/and activity of G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 4 (GRK4) or genetic variants (e.g., GRK4γ142V) cause sodium retention and hypertension. Whether GRK4 plays a role in the regulation of AT2R in the kidney remains unknown. In the present study, we found that spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) had increased AT2R phosphorylation and impaired AT2R-mediated diuretic and natriuretic effects, as compared with normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. The regulation by GRK4 of renal AT2R phosphorylation and function was studied in human (h) GRK4γ transgenic mice. hGRK4γ142V transgenic mice had increased renal AT2R phosphorylation and impaired AT2R-mediated natriuresis, relative to hGRK4γ wild-type (WT) littermates. These were confirmed in vitro; AT2R phosphorylation was increased and AT2R-mediated inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase activity was decreased in hGRK4γ142V, relative to hGRK4γ WT-transfected renal proximal tubule (RPT) cells. There was a direct physical interaction between renal GRK4 and AT2R that was increased in SHRs, relative to WKY rats. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction of renal GRK4 decreased the renal AT2R phosphorylation and restored the impaired AT2R-mediated diuresis and natriuresis in SHRs. In vitro studies showed that GRK4 siRNA reduced AT2R phosphorylation and reversed the impaired AT2R-mediated inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase activity in SHR RPT cells. Our present study shows that GRK4, at least in part, impairs renal AT2R-mediated diuresis and natriuresis by increasing its phosphorylation; inhibition of GRK4 expression and/or activity may be a potential strategy to improve the renal function of AT2R.