bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Snow depths’ impact on soil microbial activities and carbon dioxide fluxes from a temperate wetland in Northeast China
Authors: Wang Xue , Bai Xueyuan , Ma Liang , He Chunguang , Jiang Haibo , Sheng Lianxi , Luo Wenbo
Published: May 2020

Snow depth may have a complex influence on carbon cycling in winter. Here we set up a field experiment to investigate how different snow depths (0 cm, 60 cm, 90 cm) influenced carbon dioxide (CO2) in a wetland. The mean ± standard error of CO2 emissions under snow addition treatments (60 cm and 90 cm snow depths) were 0.92 ± 0.16 g·cm−2·s−1 and 0.53 ± 0.16 g·cm−2·s−1, respectively, compared with snow removal treatment (0 cm snow depth), 0.11 ± 0.05 g·cm−2·s−1. In general, snow addition increased CO2 fluxes significantly. As snow depths increased, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and bacterial diversities increased drastically. More important, the community of bacteria differed under different treatments. Firmicutes, which can resist dehydration and extremely low temperatures, was widely distributed in the snow removal treatment, where it sustained soil biochemical processes. Overall, our study indicates that snow cover counteracts the negative effects on soil microbial activities caused by low temperatures and could play a critical role in winter carbon cycling in wetlands.
Ionisation processes and laser induced periodic surface structures in dielectrics with mid-infrared femtosecond laser pulses
Authors: Tsibidis George D. , Stratakis Emmanuel
Published: May 2020

Irradiation of solids with ultrashort pulses and laser processing in the mid-Infrared (mid-IR) spectral region is a yet predominantly unexplored field with a large potential for a wide range of applications. In this work, laser driven physical phenomena associated with processes following irradiation of fused silica (SiO2) with ultrashort laser pulses in the mid-IR region are investigated in detail. A multiscale modelling approach is performed that correlates conditions for formation of perpendicular or parallel to the laser polarisation low spatial frequency periodic surface structures for low and high intensity mid-IR pulses (not previously explored in dielectrics at those wavelengths), respectively. Results demonstrate a remarkable domination of tunneling effects in the photoionisation rate and a strong influence of impact ionisation for long laser wavelengths. The methodology presented in this work is aimed to shed light on the fundamental mechanisms in a previously unexplored spectral area and allow a systematic novel surface engineering with strong mid-IR fields for advanced industrial laser applications.
Cultural familiarity and musical expertise impact the pleasantness of consonance/dissonance but not its perceived tension
Authors: Lahdelma Imre , Eerola Tuomas
Published: May 2020

The contrast between consonance and dissonance is vital in making music emotionally meaningful. Consonance typically denotes perceived agreeableness and stability, while dissonance disagreeableness and a need of resolution. This study addresses the perception of consonance/dissonance in single intervals and chords with two empirical experiments conducted online. Experiment 1 explored the perception of a representative sample of intervals and chords to investigate the overlap between the seven most used concepts (Consonance, Smoothness, Purity, Harmoniousness, Tension, Pleasantness, Preference) denoting consonance/dissonance in all the available (60) empirical studies published since 1883. The results show that the concepts exhibit high correlations, albeit these are somewhat lower for non-musicians compared to musicians. In Experiment 2 the stimuli’s cultural familiarity was divided into three levels, and the correlations between the key concepts of Consonance, Tension, Harmoniousness, Pleasantness, and Preference were further examined. Cultural familiarity affected the correlations drastically across both musicians and non-musicians, but in different ways. Tension maintained relatively high correlations with Consonance across musical expertise and cultural familiarity levels, making it a useful concept for studies addressing both musicians and non-musicians. On the basis of the results a control for cultural familiarity and musical expertise is recommended for all studies investigating consonance/dissonance perception.
Features of soil behavior in the near-fault zones during the 2011 Tohoku mega-thrust earthquake Mw 9
Authors: Pavlenko Olga V.
Published: May 2020

Soil behavior is studied during the Tohoku earthquake, where abnormally high accelerations > 1 g were recorded. Based on vertical array records, models of soil behavior are constructed at 28 sites in northern Honshu (Tohoku region). They are compared with previously studied models of soil behavior in southern Tohoku and Kanto regions, where shock waves were identified as possible causes of the recorded high accelerations. Shear moduli did not reduce during strong motion at many sites, and the behavior of softer and denser soils was similar to a large extent. The nonlinearity of soil response during the Tohoku earthquake was weaker than that observed earlier during the 1995 Kobe and 2000 Tottori earthquakes (Mw ~6.7–6.8). Instead, a widespread soil hardening was found, most expressed at stations recorded the highest PGAs. To explain the observed features of soil behavior, two possible mechanisms are suggested, such as, 1) shock wave fronts generated by rupture propagation along the fault plane induce soil hardening and high PGAs; 2) soil compaction and hardening is a soil response to long-lasting dynamic loadings during the earthquake. Most likely we may expect similar effects of soil hardening and generation of high PGAs during other mega-thrust earthquakes in future.
Complete genome sequence of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus lugdunensis strain and characteristics of its staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec
Authors: Shibuya Rie , Uehara Yuki , Baba Tadashi , Teruya Kuniko , Satou Kazuhito , Hirano Takashi , Kirikae Teruo , Hiramatsu Keiichi
Published: May 2020

Symptoms of Staphylococcus lugdunensis infection are often similar to those of Staphylococcus aureus infection, including skin and soft-tissue lesions, bacteremia and infective endocarditis. Despite the severity of these infections, S. lugdunensis is regarded as a less important pathogen than drug-resistant S. aureus. To investigate its ability to cause infectious diseases, a methicillin-resistant S. lugdunensis (MRSL) strain JICS135 was isolated from a patient with bacteremia and subjected to whole genome sequencing. Similar to most strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), this MRSL strain possessed the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) located close to the origin of replication. However, the SCCmec in this MRSL strain, with three ccr complexes, was structurally unique and currently untypable. Moreover, the SCCmec of this MRSL strain was found to carry two genes encoding microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMM)-like proteins accompanied by glycosyl transferases, one of which may have been derived from S. aureus and the other from S. epidermidis, indicating that this MRSL evolved to carry virulence factors from other staphylococci. The emergence of this strain, the first MRSL strain whose genome has been sequenced completely, may be of public concern.
Loss of the conserved PKA sites of SIK1 and SIK2 increases sleep need
Authors: Park Minjeong , Miyoshi Chika , Fujiyama Tomoyuki , Kakizaki Miyo , Ikkyu Aya , Honda Takato , Choi Jinhwan , Asano Fuyuki , Mizuno Seiya , Takahashi Satoru , Yanagisawa Masashi , Funato Hiromasa
Published: May 2020

Although sleep is one of the most conserved behaviors, the intracellular mechanism regulating sleep/wakefulness remains unknown. We recently identified a protein kinase, SIK3, as a sleep-regulating molecule. Mice that lack a well-conserved protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylation site, S551, showed longer non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and increased NREMS delta density. S551 of SIK3 is conserved in other members of the SIK family, such as SIK1 (S577) and SIK2 (S587). Here, we examined whether the PKA phosphorylation sites of SIK1 and SIK2 are involved in sleep regulation by generating Sik1S577A and Sik2S587A mice. The homozygous Sik1S577A mice showed a shorter wake time, longer NREMS time, and higher NREMS delta density than the wild-type mice. The heterozygous and homozygous Sik2S587A mice showed increased NREMS delta density. Both the Sik1S577A and Sik2S587A mice exhibited proper homeostatic regulation of sleep need after sleep deprivation. Despite abundant expression of Sik1 in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, the Sik1S577A mice showed normal circadian behavior. Although Sik2 is highly expressed in brown adipose tissue, the male and female Sik2S587A mice that were fed either a chow or high-fat diet showed similar weight gain as the wild-type littermates. These results suggest that PKA-SIK signaling is involved in the regulation of sleep need.
Author Correction: Severe Decline of Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Associates with Progressive Cognitive Deterioration in the Elderly: A Community-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Yu-Chi , Weng Shuo-Chun , Liu Jia-Sin , Chuang Han-Lin , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Tarng Der-Cherng
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Adaptation to transients disrupts spatial coherence in binocular rivalry
Authors: Naber Marnix , Stuit Sjoerd , De Kloe Yentl , Van der Stigchel Stefan , Paffen Chris L. E.
Published: May 2020

When one eye is presented with an image that is distinct from the image presented to the other eye, the eyes start to rival and suppress each other’s image. Binocular rivalry leads to perceptual alternations between the images of each eye, during which only one of the images is perceived at a time. However, when the eyes exert weak and shallow suppression, participants tend to perceive both images intermixed more often. A recent study proposed that the precedence of mixed percepts positively correlates with the degree of adaptation to conflict between the eyes. However, this study neglected the role of visual transients, which covaried with the degree of conflict in the stimulus design. Here we report that not the conflict between the eyes but prolonged and repeated observations of strong visual transients cause participants to report more mixed percepts. We conclude that visual transients, such as sudden changes in contrast, draw attention, strengthen both eyes’ image representations, and facilitate the adaptation to interocular suppression, which consequentially disrupts the spatial coherence in binocular rivalry. This finding is relevant to virtual- and augmented reality for which it is crucial to design stereoscopic environments in which binocular rivalry is limited.
Cytogenetic mechanisms of unisexuality in rock lizards
Authors: Spangenberg Victor , Arakelyan Marine , Cioffi Marcelo de Bello , Liehr Thomas , Al-Rikabi Ahmed , Martynova Elena , Danielyan Felix , Stepanyan Ilona , Galoyan Eduard , Kolomiets Oxana
Published: May 2020

Darevskia rock lizards is a unique complex taxa, including more than thirty species, seven of which are parthenogenetic. In mixed populations of Darevskia lizards, tri- and tetraploid forms can be found. The most important issues in the theory of reticulate evolution of Darevskia lizards are the origin of parthenogenetic species and their taxonomic position. However, there is little data on how meiosis proceeds in these species. The present work reports the complex results of cytogenetics in a diploid parthenogenetic species – D. unisexualis. Here we detail the meiotic prophase I progression and the specific features оf mitotic chromosomes organization. The stages of meiosis prophase I were investigated by immunocytochemical analysis of preparations obtained from isolated primary oocytes of D. unisexualis in comparison with maternal species D. raddei nairensis. It has been shown that in D. unisexualis at the leptotene-zygotene stages the axial elements and the synaptonemal complex (SC) form typical “bouquets”. At the pachytene-diplotene stage, 18 autosomal SC-bivalents and thickened asynapted sex Z and w univalents were observed. The presence of SYCP1 protein between the lateral elements of autosomal chromosomes proved the formation of assembled SCs. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) on the mitotic metaphase chromosomes of D. unisexualis was carried out using the genomic DNA isolated from the parental species D. raddei nairensis and D. valentini. In the pericentromeric regions of half of the mitotic chromosomes of D. unisexualis, specific regions inherited from maternal species have been found. Following our results, we suggest a model for diploid germ cells formation from diploid oocytes without premeiotic duplication of chromosomes in the oogenesis of diploid parthenogenetic lizards D. unisexualis. Taken as a whole, our findings confirm the hybrid nature of D. unisexualis and shed light on heterozygosity and automixis in diploid parthenogenetic forms.
Helicobacter pylori was not detected in oral squamous cell carcinomas from cohorts of Norwegian and Nepalese patients
Authors: Pandey Sushma , Follin-Arbelet Benoit , Pun Chin Bahadur , Gautam Dej K. , Johannessen Anne Christine , Petersen Fernanda Cristina , Costea Daniela Elena , Sapkota Dipak
Published: May 2020

Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection is an established causative agent for gastric cancer. Although the oral cavity is a part of the gastrointestinal system, the presence and possible causative role of HP in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a subject of controversy. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate HP infection in two cohorts of OSCC patients with different demographic characteristics, lifestyles and habitual risk factors. A total of 242 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded OSCC specimens from two different patient cohorts (Norway, n = 171 and Nepal, n = 71) were used to examine HP using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Two different HP specific genes (23S rRNA and ureA) were used for TaqMan-based qPCR, and for subsequent verification using HP specific RIDAGENE HP kit and SYBR Green based qPCR. All of the OSCC specimens from both cohorts were found to be negative for HP infection with IHC and qPCR, although the positive control specimens tested positive. Our findings suggest that HP is absent in the examined OSCC cohorts, irrespective of race, lifestyle and habitual risk factors. This indicates that, in contrast to gastric cancer, HP is an unlikely contributing factor for OSCC pathogenesis.
Second line anti-retroviral therapy failure in a pediatric cohort of an Ethiopian tertiary hospital: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Alemayehu Tinsae , Abebe Workeabeba
Published: May 2020

Sub-Saharan Africa carries the largest burden of pediatric HIV infection. The success of second line anti-retroviral treatment and related factors among African children is not well-defined. Objectives: We aimed to identify the rate and determinants of second line anti-retroviral treatment failure among children and adolescents on follow-up at an Ethiopian tertiary teaching hospital. A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa. Structured forms were used to collect socio-demographic, clinical and diagnostic data. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were used to describe the magnitude of the problem and its associations. A total of 76 children and adolescents taking second line anti-retroviral treatment were analyzed (mean age: 16.1 years). Failure of therapy was seen in 14/76 while four were eligible for a switch to third line anti-retrovirals. Mean duration on second line treatment till virologic failure was diagnosed was 17.6 months while mean viral load upon requiring a third line regimen was 82,131.3 copies/ml. Second line antiretroviral treatment virologic failure was significantly associated with the age of the child or adolescent. A high rate of virologic failure exists among the study population. Findings underline need for provision of third line anti-retroviral drugs in Ethiopia. Challenges for delivering a standard care were irregular viral load testing and delayed initiation of second line treatment after failure of first line regimens.
A machine learning approach predicts future risk to suicidal ideation from social media data
Authors: Roy Arunima , Nikolitch Katerina , McGinn Rachel , Jinah Safiya , Klement William , Kaminsky Zachary A.
Published: May 2020

Machine learning analysis of social media data represents a promising way to capture longitudinal environmental influences contributing to individual risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Our objective was to generate an algorithm termed “Suicide Artificial Intelligence Prediction Heuristic (SAIPH)” capable of predicting future risk to suicidal thought by analyzing publicly available Twitter data. We trained a series of neural networks on Twitter data queried against suicide associated psychological constructs including burden, stress, loneliness, hopelessness, insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Using 512,526 tweets from N = 283 suicidal ideation (SI) cases and 3,518,494 tweets from 2655 controls, we then trained a random forest model using neural network outputs to predict binary SI status. The model predicted N = 830 SI events derived from an independent set of 277 suicidal ideators relative to N = 3159 control events in all non-SI individuals with an AUC of 0.88 (95% CI 0.86–0.90). Using an alternative approach, our model generates temporal prediction of risk such that peak occurrences above an individual specific threshold denote a ~7 fold increased risk for SI within the following 10 days (OR = 6.7 ± 1.1, P = 9 × 10−71). We validated our model using regionally obtained Twitter data and observed significant associations of algorithm SI scores with county-wide suicide death rates across 16 days in August and in October, 2019, most significantly in younger individuals. Algorithmic approaches like SAIPH have the potential to identify individual future SI risk and could be easily adapted as clinical decision tools aiding suicide screening and risk monitoring using available technologies.
Long non-coding RNA LASSIE regulates shear stress sensing and endothelial barrier function
Authors: Stanicek Laura , Lozano-Vidal Noelia , Bink Diewertje Ilse , Hooglugt Aukie , Yao Wenjie , Wittig Ilka , van Rijssel Jos , van Buul Jaap Diederik , van Bergen Anke , Klems Alina , Ramms Anne Sophie , Le Noble Ferdinand , Hofmann Patrick , Szulcek Robert , Wang ShengPeng , Offermanns Stefan , Ercanoglu Meryem Seda , Kwon Hyouk-Bum , Stainier Didier , Huveneers Stephan , Kurian Leo , Dimmeler Stefanie , Boon Reinier Abraham
Published: May 2020

Blood vessels are constantly exposed to shear stress, a biomechanical force generated by blood flow. Normal shear stress sensing and barrier function are crucial for vascular homeostasis and are controlled by adherens junctions (AJs). Here we show that AJs are stabilized by the shear stress-induced long non-coding RNA LASSIE (linc00520). Silencing of LASSIE in endothelial cells impairs cell survival, cell-cell contacts and cell alignment in the direction of flow. LASSIE associates with junction proteins (e.g. PECAM-1) and the intermediate filament protein nestin, as identified by RNA affinity purification. The AJs component VE-cadherin showed decreased stabilization, due to reduced interaction with nestin and the microtubule cytoskeleton in the absence of LASSIE. This study identifies LASSIE as link between nestin and VE-cadherin, and describes nestin as crucial component in the endothelial response to shear stress. Furthermore, this study indicates that LASSIE regulates barrier function by connecting AJs to the cytoskeleton.
An electrochemical aptasensor for ATP based on a configuration-switchable tetrahedral DNA nanostructure
Authors: Jing Cheng , Chen Haohan , Cai Rongfeng , Tian Yaping , Zhou Nandi
Published: May 2020

A novel electrochemical aptasensor for ATP was developed based on an aptamer-embedded configuration-switchable tetrahedral DNA nanostructure (TDN) and the formation of a G-quadruplex.
Simple and fast ultrasound-assisted method for mineral content and bioaccessibility study in infant formula by ICP OES
Authors: Fioravanti Maria Isabel Andrekowisk , Milani Raquel Fernanda , de Paiva Esther Lima , Morgano Marcelo Antônio
Published: May 2020

Infant formula (IF) constitutes the sole source of mineral intake for infants who are only fed IF.
Noncovalent passivation of supported phosphorene for device applications: from morphology to electronic properties
Authors: Lorenzoni Andrea , Baldoni Matteo , Besley Elena , Mercuri Francesco
Published: May 2020

Simulations suggest efficient routes for the non-covalent passivation of supported phosphorene with alkanes, highlighting strategies to prevent surface degradation phenomena.
Configuration mixing upon reorganization of dihedral angle induces rapid intersystem crossing in organic photoredox catalyst
Authors: Kim Hwon , Scholes Gregory D.
Published: May 2020

A long excited state lifetime is a desirable quality of photocatalysts because it enables a higher probability of energy or electron transfer from the photocatalyst to a substrate.
EXAFS investigations of temperature-dependent structure in cobalt-59 molecular NMR thermometers
Authors: Ozvat Tyler M. , Sterbinsky George E. , Campanella Anthony J. , Rappé Anthony K. , Zadrozny Joseph M.
Published: May 2020

EXAFS spectroscopy was used to study the temperature-dependent molecular structures of a series of cobalt-59 NMR thermometers.
Color modulation by selective excitation activated defects and complex cation distribution in Zn1−xMgxAl2O4nanocrystals
Authors: Jain Megha , Manju  , Kumar Manish , Lee Hyun Hwi , Won Sung Ok , Chae Keun Hwa , Vij Ankush , Thakur Anup
Published: May 2020

Correlation of luminescence with complex cation distribution and stimulated defects in Zn1−xMgxAl2O4nanocrystals upon Mg addition.
Zero-concentration quenching: a novel Eu3+ based red phosphor with non-layered crystal structure for white LEDs and NaSrY(MoO4)3:Sm3+ based deep-red LEDs for plant growth
Authors: Rajendran Marikumar , Vaidyanathan Sivakumar
Published: May 2020

Oxide based highly efficient narrow band red emitting phosphors are still a bottleneck in white LED applications.
A comprehensive investigation of gluten free bread dough rheology, proving and baking performance and bread qualities by response surface design and principal component analysis
Authors: Ren Yi , Linter Bruce R. , Linforth Robert , Foster Tim J.
Published: May 2020

Gluten free, dough rheology, dilution effect, response surface method, principal component analysis.
Protection against developing type 2 diabetes by coffee consumption: assessment of the role of chlorogenic acid and metabolites on glycaemic responses
Authors: Williamson Gary
Published: May 2020

Coffee chlorogenic acids do not affect carbohydrate digestion directly, but modulate glucose absorption/utilisation, the latter through endogenous/gut microbiota metabolites.
Key issues facing electrospun carbon nanofibers in energy applications: on-going approaches and challenges
Authors: Nie Guangdi , Zhao Xinwei , Luan Yaxue , Jiang Jiangmin , Kou Zongkui , Wang John
Published: May 2020

Recent advances in the on-going approaches for activating electrospun carbon nanofibers and addressing the key issues faced are critically examined in connection with their electrochemical performance as supercapacitor electrodes.
Characterization in aqueous medium of an FMN semiquinone radical stabilized by the enzyme-like microenvironment of a modified polyethyleneimine
Authors: Chevalier Yoan , Lock Toy Ki Yvette , Herrero Christian , le Nouën Didier , Mahy Jean-Pierre , Goddard Jean-Philippe , Avenier Frédéric
Published: May 2020

The elusive flavin semiquinone intermediate found in flavoproteins such as cryptochromes has been obtained in aqueous solution by single electron reduction of the natural FMN cofactor using sodium ascorbate.
Synthesis of paenipeptin C′ analogues employing solution-phase CLipPA chemistry
Authors: Tong Juliana T. W. , Kavianinia Iman , Ferguson Scott A. , Cook Gregory M. , Harris Paul W. R. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: May 2020

Thiol–ene CLipPA reaction of a vinyl ester and thiolated peptide for generation of an S-lipidated paenipeptin C′ analogue with broad spectrum antibacterial activity.
Graft modification of cold water-soluble starch via nitroxide-mediated polymerisation
Authors: Fritz Alexander T. , Cazotti Jaime C. , Garcia-Valdez Omar , Smeets Niels M. B. , Dubé Marc A. , Cunningham Michael F.
Published: May 2020

Graft modification of cold water-soluble starch with synthetic polymer was conducted using nitroxide-mediated polymerisation.
A silicone elastomer with optimized and tunable mechanical strength and self-healing ability based on strong and weak coordination bonds
Authors: Tian Ming , Zuo Hongli , Wang Jie , Ning Nanying , Yu Bing , Zhang Liqun
Published: May 2020

A self-healable silicone elastomer is fabricated based on the synergistic effect of strong and weak coordination bonds.
Asymmetric N-alkylation of indoles with isatins catalyzed by N-heterocyclic carbene: efficient synthesis of functionalized cyclic N,O-aminal indole derivatives
Authors: Wang Chengyuan , Li Zhuopeng , Zhang Jiong , Hui Xin-Ping
Published: May 2020

Enantioselective N-alkylation of indole-2-formaldehydes with isatins catalyzed by NHCs is described for efficient synthesis of functionalized cyclic N,O-aminal indole derivatives.
Synthesis and properties of a temperature-sensitive hydrogel based on physical crosslinking via stereocomplexation of PLLA-PDLA
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Wu Jie , Wang Zhidan , Song Fei , Gao Wenli , Liu Shouxin
Published: May 2020

A synthetic route to amphiphilic conetwork (APCN) gels was developed and involved (1) ring-opening polymerization synthesis of the macromonomer, and (2) radical polymerization of stereocomplex of the synthesized macromonomers with MEO2MA, OEGMA to form the APCN gels.
Perspectives on plasma-assisted synthesis of N-doped nanoparticles as nanopesticides for pest control in crops
Authors: Pho Quoc Hue , Losic Dusan , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Tran Nam Nghiep , Hessel Volker
Published: May 2020

Green plasma-based technology production of N-doped NPs for a new agri-tech revolution in pest control.
Pre-service chemistry teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge for integrated STEM development with LESMeR model
Authors: Aydin-Gunbatar Sevgi , Ekiz-Kiran Betul , Oztay Elif Selcan
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to examine pre-service teachers’ (PST) personal and declarative pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) for integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through a 13 week training course. A new model based on research-based practices was proposed. The model includes Learn, Experience, Study with Mentors, and Reflection on own development and learning, and the acronym LESMeR has been coined as the name for this model. The data were collected through Content Representation (CoRe) as pre- and post-lesson plans, semi-structured interviews conducted after the training, and reflection papers written on a weekly basis. Inductive and deductive data analyses were employed. Results revealed that all participants started the training with a topic-specific PCK (PCK A). None of the participants’ pre-CoRe included essential features of integrated STEM. However, after the training, eight participants were able to balance among STEM disciplines, and integrated at least two STEM disciplines; this was coded as PCK for integrated STEM (PCK C). Five PSTs showed PCK for integrated STEM development to some extent but they were unable to achieve balance among STEM disciplines; this was coded as transitional PCK (PCK B). Results revealed that PCK for integrated STEM development requires considerable time and support. Implications are provided for integrated STEM education.
A photo zipper locked DNA nanomachine with an internal standard for precise miRNA imaging in living cells
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Yue , Zhang Xiaobo , Li Yuyi , He Yuling , Liu Ying , Ju Huangxian
Published: May 2020

A photo zipper locked DNA nanomachine with an internal standard is presented, preventing nonspecific activation and providing efficient intracellular miRNA imaging.
Exploiting clock transitions for the chemical design of resilient molecular spin qubits
Authors: Giménez-Santamarina Silvia , Cardona-Serra Salvador , Clemente-Juan Juan M. , Gaita-Ariño Alejandro , Coronado Eugenio
Published: May 2020

We employ a python computational tool to compare 3 relevant case studies with increasingly complex ground states: vanadyl complexes, Ho(iii) square antiprisms and Ho(iii) cubic structures.
Ru-catalyzed isomerization of ω-alkenylboronates towards stereoselective synthesis of vinylboronates with subsequent in situ functionalization
Authors: Ho Guo-Ming , Segura Lucas , Marek Ilan
Published: May 2020

A regio- and stereoselective ruthenium-catalyzed isomerization of ω-alkenyl boronates into stereodefined di- and trisubstituted alkenylboronate derivatives is reported.
Self-assembly of finite-sized colloidal aggregates
Authors: Jana Pritam Kumar , Mognetti Bortolo Matteo
Published: May 2020

Multibody interactions lead to the self-assembly of finite-sized colloidal aggregates with a controllable morphology.
Europium based coordination polyelectrolytes enable core–shell–corona micelles as luminescent probes
Authors: Wei Cheng , Ding Peng , Nie Xiran , Cohen Stuart Martien A. , Wang Junyou
Published: May 2020

Europium based anionic coordination polyelectrolytes incorporated in the CSC micelles enable micelles to perform as luminescent probes for selective and quantitative detection of copper (Cu2+) and sulfide (S2−) ions.
Rates of transesterification in epoxy–thiol vitrimers
Authors: Gablier Alexandra , Saed Mohand O. , Terentjev Eugene M.
Published: May 2020

The vitrimers based on the epoxy–thiol ‘click’ chemistry are investigated, reporting the role of different spacers and substitutes. The correlation between the rubber modulus and the elastic–plastic transition is established.
Multifunctional nanostructures of Au–Bi2O3 fractals for CO2 reduction and optical sensing
Authors: Tran-Phu Thanh , Daiyan Rahman , Fusco Zelio , Ma Zhipeng , Rahim Lina Raihana Abd , Kiy Alexander , Kluth Patrick , Guo Xuyun , Zhu Ye , Chen Hongjun , Amal Rose , Tricoli Antonio
Published: May 2020

Three-dimensional (3D) fractal structure of Au–Bi2O3 is fabricated and shows excellent multifunctional performance towards CO2 reduction and optical gas sensing.
Proton exchange membranes containing densely sulfonated quinquephenylene groups for high performance and durable fuel cells
Authors: Long Zhi , Miyake Junpei , Miyatake Kenji
Published: May 2020

SPAF–QP with highly hydrophobic perfluoroalkylene and densely sulfonated quinquephenylene units is designed to achieve high proton conductivity, fuel cell performance, catalyst utilization, and excellent durability under practical operating conditions.
Trace of molecular doping in metal–organic frameworks: drastic change in the electronic band structure with a preserved topology and porosity
Authors: Liu Hai-Xiong , Liu Ting-Ting , Huang Tao , Fang Zhi-Bin , Li Lan , Yin Qi , Cao Rong , Gong Xue-Qing , Liu Tian-Fu
Published: May 2020

The band gap of MOFs was engineered through molecular doping. The new method is applicable to various types of MOFs and dopants, presenting an easy and general strategy to broaden the potential application scope of MOF materials.
Mussel cuticle-mimetic ultra-tough, self-healing elastomers with double-locked nanodomains exhibit fast stimuli-responsive shape transformation
Authors: Zhao Pengchao , Yin Chao , Zhang Yu , Chen Xiaoyu , Yang Boguang , Xia Jiang , Bian Liming
Published: May 2020

Multi-phased, ultra-tough, and self-healing elastomers containing rigid double-locked hydrophobic nanodomains reinforced by iron–catechol complexes exhibit fast stimuli-responsive shape changing.
A construction strategy of ferroelectrics by the molten salt method and its application in the energy field
Authors: Fu Jing , Hou Yudong , Liu Xuepeng , Zheng Mupeng , Zhu Mankang
Published: May 2020

The critical issues and the recent progress of molten salt preparation of ferroelectrics and their application in the energy field.
Structure:function relationships for thermal and light-induced spin-crossover in isomorphous molecular materials
Authors: Kulmaczewski Rafal , Trzop Elzbieta , Collet Eric , Vela Sergi , Halcrow Malcolm A.
Published: May 2020

The complicated light-induced spin state trapping behaviour of a family of isomorphous solvate crystals reflects reorientation of the lattice solvent during the spin-transition (white = high-spin, brown = low-spin).
Monochromatic red electroluminescence from a homodinuclear europium(iii) complex of a β-diketone tethered by 2,2′-bipyrimidine
Authors: Ilmi Rashid , Sun Weidong , Dutra José D. L. , Al-Rasbi Nawal K. , Zhou Liang , Qian Peng-Cheng , Wong Wai-Yeung , Raithby Paul R. , Khan Muhammad S.
Published: May 2020

A new bright red emitting complex [Eu(btfa)3bpm]2 has been synthesized. The photophysical properties were analyzed and it was utilized as an emitter to fabricate red OLEDs.
An elliptic expansion of the potential field source surface model
Authors: Kruse M. , Heidrich-Meisner V. , Wimmer-Schweingruber R. F. , Hauptmann M.
Published: May 2020

Context. The potential field source surface model is frequently used as a basis for further scientific investigations where a comprehensive coronal magnetic field is of importance. Its parameters, especially the position and shape of the source surface, are crucial for the interpretation of the state of the interplanetary medium. Improvements have been suggested that introduce one or more additional free parameters to the model, for example, the current sheet source surface model.

Aims. Relaxing the spherical constraint of the source surface and allowing it to be elliptical gives modelers the option of deforming it to more accurately match the physical environment of the specific period or location to be analyzed.

Methods. A numerical solver is presented that solves Laplace’s equation on a three-dimensional grid using finite differences. The solver is capable of working on structured spherical grids that can be deformed to create elliptical source surfaces.

Results. The configurations of the coronal magnetic field are presented using this new solver. Three-dimensional renderings are complemented by Carrington-like synoptic maps of the magnetic configuration at different heights in the solar corona. Differences in the magnetic configuration computed by the spherical and elliptical models are illustrated.
Asymptotic Hölder regularity for the ellipsoid process
Authors: Arroyo Ángel , Parviainen Mikko
Published: May 2020

We obtain an asymptotic Hölder estimate for functions satisfying a dynamic programming principle arising from a so-called ellipsoid process. By the ellipsoid process we mean a generalization of the random walk where the next step in the process is taken inside a given space dependent ellipsoid. This stochastic process is related to elliptic equations in non-divergence form with bounded and measurable coefficients, and the regularity estimate is stable as the step size of the process converges to zero. The proof, which requires certain control on the distortion and the measure of the ellipsoids but not continuity assumption, is based on the coupling method.
La levure modèle et outil… aussi pour la recherche thérapeutique
Authors: Bach Stéphane , Colas Pierre , Blondel Marc
Published: May 2020

La levure a été utilisée de façon empirique pendant des millénaires pour la panification et la fermentation des sucres en alcool. C’est seulement à partir de 1857 que Louis Pasteur décrit le microorganisme à l’origine de ces deux activités agroalimentaires majeures. Dès lors, les souches de levure ont pu être sélectionnées et modifiées sur une base rationnelle pour optimiser leurs usages agroalimentaires, permettant ainsi l’essor de la levure comme modèle biologique eucaryote. Cette utilisation a conduit à de très nombreuses découvertes de biologie cellulaire fondamentale. Depuis une vingtaine d’années, la levure est également utilisée comme modèle et outil pour la santé humaine. Ces approches s’étendent de la production de molécules thérapeutiques à la recherche de candidats-médicaments et de sondes chimiques, en passant par la mise au point de tests diagnostiques et la découverte de nouvelles cibles thérapeutiques. Cette utilisation de la levure en chémobiologie fait l’objet de la présente revue.
Les neuropilines
Authors: Dumond Aurore , Demange Luc , Pagès Gilles
Published: May 2020

Une angiogenèse exacerbée est une des caractéristiques («hallmarks») du cancer, définies par Hanahan et Weinberg1. Cependant, le ciblage de la voie de signalisation du VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) ou de ses récepteurs a montré ses limites thérapeutiques. Après un bénéfice thérapeutique indéniable pour les patients, les tumeurs récidivent après quelques mois, et deviennent généralement métastatiques et incurables. Les neuropilines 1 et 2 (NRP1, 2) dont l’activité a été décrite initialement dans le système nerveux, stimulent de nombreuses fonctions impliquées dans l’agressivité tumorale, notamment la prolifération cellulaire, l’angiogenèse et la lymphangiogenèse, ainsi que la tolérance immunitaire. Ainsi, une surexpression de NRP1 ou 2 dans de nombreuses tumeurs, est corrélée à une survie courte des patients. Cette revue a pour objectif de décrire les mécanismes d’action impliqués dans la stimulation de NRP1 et NRP2 et de faire le point sur les stratégies thérapeutiques en études précliniques ou en essais de phase précoces chez des patients atteints de différents cancers.
Céramides, acteurs cruciaux dans le développement de l’insulino-résistance et du diabète de type 2
Authors: Tan-Chen Sophie , Bourron Olivier , Hajduch Éric
Published: May 2020

L’insulino-résistance, qui caractérise le diabète de type 2 et l’obésité, est due à une diminution de l’action de l’insuline sur ses tissus cibles (foie, tissu adipeux, muscles squelettiques). Il est maintenant bien documenté qu’au niveau de ces tissus, l’accumulation ectopique d’acides gras, et en particulier de métabolites dérivés de ces acides gras, comme les céramides, joue un rôle crucial dans l’altération du message insulinique. Cette revue décrit le rôle majeur joué par les céramides dans le développement de l’insulino-résistance des tissus périphériques.
Le numérique au service de l’ETP : à propos d’un programme polypathologies
Authors: Lafitte Pascale , Lince-Barrere Karine , Marchand Martial , Cohen Jean David
Published: May 2020

Introduction :  En France, les programmes d’ETP mono-affection se développent, en même temps qu’augmente le nombre de patients atteints de polypathologies nécessitant une polymédication. L’ETP doit alors s’orienter vers l’apprentissage de compétences transversales en plus des compétences spécifiques à chaque pathologie. Objectif : Pour répondre aux besoins éducatifs croissant des patients polypathologiques, une UTEP a collaboré avec des étudiantes de Master Création numérique de l’ESPE de Toulouse pour la création d’outils pédagogiques numériques dans le cadre d’un programme « ETP Polypathologie et Polymédication ». Description : Une partie des ressources a été confiée au groupe d’étudiantes dans le cadre d’un module « projet collectif ». Quant à l’autre partie, elle a été confiée à une étudiante dans le cadre de son stage individuel. Elles ont choisi des logiciels et des applications gratuites et faciles d’utilisation pour que l’équipe d’ETP puisse par la suite se les approprier afin d’apporter des modifications ou créer de nouvelles ressources. Résultats : À partir de certains objectifs pédagogiques préalablement identifiés comme pouvant être conduits à l’aide d’outils numériques, plusieurs activités interactives ont été conçues. Conclusion : Les outils numériques ainsi créés sont utilisés en collectif ou en individuel avec les patients, toujours animés par des professionnels de santé.
Platelets in Thrombo-Inflammation: Concepts, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Burkard Philipp , Vögtle Timo , Nieswandt Bernhard
Published: May 2020

Platelets are anucleate cells known for their essential function in hemostasis and formation of thrombi under pathologic conditions. In recent years, strong evidence emerged demonstrating the critical involvement of platelets in inflammatory processes including acute ischemic stroke (AIS), which is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Recanalization of the occluded brain artery to reconstitute cerebral blood flow is the primary goal in the treatment of stroke patients. However, despite successful reperfusion many patients show progression of infarct sizes, a phenomenon referred to as ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/RI). Cerebral I/RI involves both thrombotic as well as inflammatory pathways acting in concert to cause tissue damage, defining AIS as a prototypic thrombo-inflammatory disease. Currently used antiplatelet drugs applied to AIS patients eventually increase the risk of partially life-threatening hemorrhages, making more targeted pharmacological intervention necessary. Experimental evidence indicates that inhibition of platelet surface receptors that regulate initial platelet adhesion and activation might be suitable targets in thrombo-inflammatory settings, while inhibitors of platelet aggregation are not. In this review, we will summarize the recent developments in elucidating the role of the main platelet receptors in AIS and discuss their potential as pharmaceutical targets. Furthermore, we will also briefly discuss the important platelet-triggered intrinsic coagulation pathway with the pro-inflammatory kallikrein–kinin system in the context of ischemic stroke.
Rectus sternalis muscle - a rare anatomical variant
Authors: Shankar Veena Vidya , Rajan Rahe , Nanjundaiah Komala , Chowdapurkar Sheshgiri
Published: May 2020

The Rectus Sternalis muscle is an unusual muscle that is observed on the anterior chest wall. The origin of this muscle is a highly debated variation of the pectoral musculature. We report a case of an abnormal vertically placed muscle - The rectus sternalis muscle, on the right medial side of the anterior chest wall of a male cadaver aged about 80 years. The abnormal presence of this muscle can be misdiagnosed as a breast mass on a routine mammogram. The advantage is its role in reconstruction flap surgeries. Hence knowledge of such an anatomical variant should be kept in mind during diagnostic investigations and surgical procedures.
Study of congenital talipes equinovarus cases and its radiological correlation
Authors: Baruah Prabahita , Choudhury Pradipta Ray , Talukdar K. L
Published: May 2020

Background and aims : congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) or club foot is one of the most common congenital orthopaedic anomalies and is increasing day by day with the growing millions of this country. However, it still continues to challenge the skills of the surgeons as it has a notorious tendency to relapse. Part of the reason behind its relapse is the failure to recognize the underlying pathoanatomy. Again the controversy regarding the radiographic parameter which best represents the deformity of club foot still continues. However, the talocalcaneal angle in both AP (anterior-posterior) and lateral view is considered as the best parameter to diagnose a case of CTEV radio graphically. The aim of the study is to study the cases of CTEV and their radiological correlation. Materials and methods : Sixty cases of CTEV attending the orthopaedic OPD, Gauhati Medical College were taken for study. Clinical history, photographs and radiographs (X-rays) of these cases were taken. Results and observations : out of 60, 63.3% cases were male, 43.3% cases were bilateral, 36.04% cases showed the talocalcaneal angle (AP view) ranging 260 - 300. Conclusion : The talocalcaneal angles, in both, AP (anterior-posterior) and a lateral view, in a normal foot is more than 35 degrees, but in CTEV these are reduced. Functional anatomy of CTEV is a prerequisite for achieving an aligned and supple foot with a good prognostic value.
Percutaneous Embolization of Biliary Leaks: A Systematic Interdisciplinary Review and Proposal for a New Classification
Authors: Schmitz Daniel , Mutignani Massimiliano , Neumann Ulf Peter , Wielpütz Mark Oliver , Hagenmüller Friedrich , Rudi Jochen , Chang De-Hua
Published: May 2020

Objectives Biliary leak can be treated by percutaneous biliary embolization. The aim of this systematic interdisciplinary review was to analyze available reports on percutaneous embolization of biliary leak.

Methods We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach to perform literature database search. The following terms were systematically analyzed: type of embolic agent, success rates, embolization-related adverse events, cause of biliary leak, fistula connection type, anatomic bile duct variants, and access routes.

Results Of 713 publications identified, 45 reports with 101 patients were included. Six temporary and 4 permanent embolic agents were used in 55/101 (54.5%) and 46/101 (45.5%) patients; combined in 18/101 patients (17.8%). Bile leak was successfully embolized in 97/101 (96.0%) patients, in 48/101 (47.5%) patients after repeated procedures with the same agent, and in 4/101 (3.9%) patients after a failed embolization with other agents: isolated bile duct fistula (n = 2), intrahepatic fistula after liver resection, and biliary-bronchial fistula. Five types of biliary leak were associated with the following success rates: (A) common bile duct (CBD) or cystic duct: 4/4 (100%); (B) intrahepatic bile duct (IHBD), communicating with CBD: 16/18 (88.9%); (C) isolated IHBD: 49/51 (96%); (D) CBD or cystic duct, bile duct system (BDS) not accessible by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): 7/7 (100%); and (E) IHBD, communicating with CBD, BDS not accessible by ERCP: 9/9 (100%).

Conclusions Embolization was highly successful without clear preference for one embolic agent. A new classification of biliary leak is proposed to direct nonsurgical treatments.
Room-temperature crystallization of amorphous silicon by near-UV femtosecond pulses
Authors: Pan Ci-Ling , Chen Kuan-Wen , Wang Yi-Chao , Kao Shih-Hsuan , Wu Pohsun
Published: May 2020

Near ultraviolet (λ ≈ 400 nm) femtosecond laser annealing (400 nm-FLA) in a scanning mode was employed to crystallize amorphous silicon (a-Si) films at room temperature. The average grain size of polycrystalline silicon annealed was studied as a function of the incident laser fluence and beam overlap or the number of laser shots irradiated. In general, the grain size can be enlarged by either increasing the beam overlap at a fixed laser fluence or increasing the laser fluence for a fixed number of laser shots. An apparent threshold for the onset of rapid enlargement of grain size was observed for processing at ∼90% overlap and fluences above 25 mJ/cm2. A maximum grain size of ∼280 nm was attained at a laser fluence of 30 mJ/cm2 and overlap of 93.75%, beyond which the grain size attained was smaller, and eventually, ablation was observed at an overlap of 97.5% and higher. These trends and observed surface morphology of annealed samples suggest that the crystallization mechanism is like sequential lateral solidification, similar to 800 nm-FLA and excimer laser annealing. Raman spectroscopic studies show that the degree of crystallization achieved with 400 nm-FLA is even higher than that of 800 nm-FLA. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopic images indicate that the 100 nm-thick a-Si film is not fully crystallized. This can be explained by the much shorter penetration depth of 400 nm light than that of 800 nm light in a-Si.