bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular detection of giant snakeheads, Channa micropeltes (Cuvier, 1831), one of the most troublesome fish species
Authors: Osathanunkul Maslin , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: May 2021

A lack of reliable tools for determining the presence and distribution of fish species can impede understanding of predator–prey interactions and fishery management. Conventional fish survey methods are invasive, and can be size or species selective. Combining netting and electrofishing is a current method used to monitor fish species in Phayao Lake (Kwan Phayao), Thailand. However, the methods are inefficient and time-consuming. Recently, locals who rely on inland fisheries in Kwan Phayao expressed their deep concerns about the giant snakehead, Channa micropeltes (Cuvier, 1831) destroying other fish there. The giant snakehead prey on many commercially important fish species, as the prey species is reduced, negative effects on both biodiversity and the fishery sector could follow. Here, an eDNA-based survey was developed to detect the presence of the giant snakehead. Water samples were collected from six sites within Kwan Phayao and 17 sites in Ing River where water flowed into and out of Kwan Payao. The eDNA of the giant snakehead was detected in water samples from all collection sites using the developed qPCR assay with various concentrations. The eDNA was shown here to be a sensitive and reliable tool for fish surveillance so there will be a better chance for developing an effective management strategy.
The impact of atmospheric oxidation on hygroscopicity and cloud droplet activation of inorganic sea spray aerosol
Authors: Rosati Bernadette , Christiansen Sigurd , Dinesen Anders , Roldin Pontus , Massling Andreas , Nilsson E. Douglas , Bilde Merete
Published: May 2021

Sea spray aerosol (SSA) contributes significantly to natural aerosol particle concentrations globally, in marine areas even dominantly. The potential changes of the omnipresent inorganic fraction of SSA due to atmospheric ageing is largely unexplored. In the atmosphere, SSA may exist as aqueous phase solution droplets or as dried solid or amorphous particles. We demonstrate that ageing of liquid NaCl and artificial sea salt aerosol by exposure to ozone and UV light leads to a substantial decrease in hygroscopicity and cloud activation potential of the dried particles of the same size. The results point towards surface reactions on the liquid aerosols that are more crucial for small particles and the formation of salt structures with water bound within the dried aerosols, termed hydrates. Our findings suggest an increased formation of hydrate forming salts during ageing and the presence of hydrates in dried SSA. Field observations indicate a reduced hygroscopic growth factor of sub-micrometre SSA in the marine atmosphere compared to fresh laboratory generated NaCl or sea salt of the same dry size, which is typically attributed to organic matter or sulphates. Aged inorganic sea salt offers an additional explanation for such a measured reduced hygroscopic growth factor and cloud activation potential.
Phenotypical predictors of pregnancy-related restless legs syndrome and their association with basal ganglia and the limbic circuits
Authors: Chechko Natalia , Lefort-Besnard Jeremy , Goecke Tamme W. , Frensch Markus , Schnakenberg Patricia , Stickel Susanne , Bzdok Danilo
Published: May 2021

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) in pregnancy is a common disorder with a multifactorial etiology. A neurological and obstetrical cohort of 308 postpartum women was screened for RLS within 1 to 6 days of childbirth and 12 weeks postpartum. Of the 308 young mothers, 57 (prevalence rate 19%) were identified as having been affected by RLS symptoms in the recently completed pregnancy. Structural and functional MRI was obtained from 25 of these 57 participants. A multivariate two-window algorithm was employed to systematically chart the relationship between brain structures and phenotypical predictors of RLS. A decreased volume of the parietal, orbitofrontal and frontal areas shortly after delivery was found to be linked to persistent RLS symptoms up to 12 weeks postpartum, the symptoms' severity and intensity in the most recent pregnancy, and a history of RLS in previous pregnancies. The same negative relationship was observed between brain volume and not being married, not receiving any iron supplement and higher numbers of stressful life events. High cortisol levels, being married and receiving iron supplements, on the other hand, were found to be associated with increased volumes in the bilateral striatum. Investigating RLS symptoms in pregnancy within a brain-phenotype framework may help shed light on the heterogeneity of the condition.
Cholinergic calcium responses in cultured antennal lobe neurons of the migratory locust
Authors: Bergmann Gregor A. , Bicker Gerd
Published: May 2021

Locusts are advantageous organisms to elucidate mechanisms of olfactory coding at the systems level. Sensory input is provided by the olfactory receptor neurons of the antenna, which send their axons into the antennal lobe. So far, cellular properties of neurons isolated from the circuitry of the olfactory system, such as transmitter-induced calcium responses, have not been studied. Biochemical and immunocytochemical investigations have provided evidence for acetylcholine as classical transmitter of olfactory receptor neurons. Here, we characterize cell cultured projection and local interneurons of the antennal lobe by cytosolic calcium imaging to cholinergic stimulation. We bulk loaded the indicator dye Cal-520 AM in dissociated culture and recorded calcium transients after applying cholinergic agonists and antagonists. The majority of projection and local neurons respond with increases in calcium levels to activation of both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. In local interneurons, we reveal interactions lasting over minutes between intracellular signaling pathways, mediated by muscarinic and nicotinic receptor stimulation. The present investigation is pioneer in showing that Cal-520 AM readily loads Locusta migratoria neurons, making it a valuable tool for future research in locust neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and neurodevelopment.
Acute toxicity analysis of an inhibitor of BCL2, Disarib, in rats
Authors: Sharma Shivangi , Varsha Kontham Kulangara , Ray Ujjayinee , Siddiqua Humaira , Jose Anjana Elizabeth , Muninarasimaiah Sridhar , Raghavan Sathees C. , Choudhary Bibha
Published: May 2021

Apoptosis or programmed cell death is a highly regulated process, which eliminates unwanted and damaged cells. Inhibition of apoptosis is a hallmark of cancer cells. BCL2 family proteins are known to play a vital role in the regulation of apoptosis. Overexpression of BCL2, an antiapoptotic protein, provides the advantage of prolonged survival to cancer cells. Over the years, several BCL2 inhibitors have been investigated extensively for their anticancer potential. However, most of them were abolished before clinical use due to their side effects. Previously, we had identified and characterized a novel BCL2 inhibitor, Disarib, with the potential to eliminate tumor cells in a BCL2 specific manner leading to reduction in tumor burden in multiple mouse models. Notably, a head-to-head comparison of Disarib to ABT199, the only FDA approved BCL2 inhibitor revealed that Disarib is as potent as ABT199. Recent studies using mice revealed that Disarib did not invoke significant side effects in mice. In the present study, we have investigated the acute toxicity of Disarib in Wistar rats. The bioavailability studies following exposure of Disarib in Wistar rats revealed its maximum availability in serum at 24 h following oral administration. Acute toxicity analysis revealed that even a dose as high as 2000 mg/kg of Disarib did not cause significant toxicity in rats. There was no significant variation in blood parameters or kidney and liver functions following administration of Disarib. Histological analysis of different tissues from Disarib treated groups revealed standard architecture with no observable cellular damage. Importantly, exposure to Diasrib did not result in genotoxicity as determined by micronucleus assay. Further, solubility assays revealed that besides DMSO, Disarib is also soluble in alcohol. While the high acidic condition can increase the solubility of Disarib, even a lower percentage of alcohol with acidic conditions can improve its solubility. Thus, the toxicological profile in the current study revealed no significant side effects when Disarib was administered orally to rats.
Genesis and influencing factors of the colour of chrysoprase
Authors: Jiang Yuansheng , Guo Ying
Published: May 2021

The genesis and influencing factors of the colour of chrysoprase were studied based on the results of transmission electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence, ultraviolet–visible and Raman spectroscopies. The results show that under a 6504-K fluorescent lamp, chrysoprase colour is divided into the grades of fancy, fancy intense and fancy deep. The lightness of chrysoprase is affected mainly by its chromium content, the chroma is affected by its nickel content and the hue angle is affected by the sum of its chromium and ferrum contents. The colour of chrysoprase is related significantly to the transmission window that occurs between the two main bands centred at 380 and 660 nm and the absorption peaks at 380 and 660 nm in the ultraviolet–visible spectrum. Chrysoprase with low crystallinity has more nickel and a higher chroma. The inclusions that cause the chrysoprase colour have been identified as pimelite.
Long-term kidney function of patients discharged from hospital after an intensive care admission: observational cohort study
Authors: Haines Ryan W. , Powell-Tuck Jonah , Leonard Hugh , Crichton Siobhan , Ostermann Marlies
Published: May 2021

The long-term trajectory of kidney function recovery or decline for survivors of critical illness is incompletely understood. Characterising changes in kidney function after critical illness and associated episodes of acute kidney injury (AKI), could inform strategies to monitor and treat new or progressive chronic kidney disease. We assessed changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and impact of AKI for 1301 critical care survivors with 5291 eGFR measurements (median 3 [IQR 2, 5] per patient) between hospital discharge (2004–2008) and end of 7 years of follow-up. Linear mixed effects models showed initial decline in eGFR over the first 6 months was greatest in patients without AKI (− 9.5%, 95% CI − 11.5% to − 7.4%) and with mild AKI (− 12.3%, CI − 15.1% to − 9.4%) and least in patients with moderate-severe AKI (− 4.3%, CI − 7.0% to − 1.4%). However, compared to patients without AKI, hospital discharge eGFR was lowest for the moderate-severe AKI group (median 61 [37, 96] vs 101 [78, 120] ml/min/1.73m2) and two thirds (66.5%, CI 59.8–72.6% vs 9.2%, CI 6.8–12.4%) had an eGFR of < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 through to 7 years after discharge. Kidney function trajectory after critical care discharge follows a distinctive pattern of initial drop then sustained decline. Regardless of AKI severity, this evidence suggests follow-up should incorporate monitoring of eGFR in the early months after hospital discharge.
d-Cystine di(m)ethyl ester reverses the deleterious effects of morphine on ventilation and arterial blood gas chemistry while promoting antinociception
Authors: Gaston Benjamin , Baby Santhosh M. , May Walter J. , Young Alex P. , Grossfield Alan , Bates James N. , Seckler James M. , Wilson Christopher G. , Lewis Stephen J.
Published: May 2021

We have identified thiolesters that reverse the negative effects of opioids on breathing without compromising antinociception. Here we report the effects of d-cystine diethyl ester (d-cystine diEE) or d-cystine dimethyl ester (d-cystine diME) on morphine-induced changes in ventilation, arterial-blood gas chemistry, A-a gradient (index of gas-exchange in the lungs) and antinociception in freely moving rats. Injection of morphine (10 mg/kg, IV) elicited negative effects on breathing (e.g., depression of tidal volume, minute ventilation, peak inspiratory flow, and inspiratory drive). Subsequent injection of d-cystine diEE (500 μmol/kg, IV) elicited an immediate and sustained reversal of these effects of morphine. Injection of morphine (10 mg/kg, IV) also elicited pronounced decreases in arterial blood pH, pO2 and sO2 accompanied by pronounced increases in pCO2 (all indicative of a decrease in ventilatory drive) and A-a gradient (mismatch in ventilation-perfusion in the lungs). These effects of morphine were reversed in an immediate and sustained fashion by d-cystine diME (500 μmol/kg, IV). Finally, the duration of morphine (5 and 10 mg/kg, IV) antinociception was augmented by d-cystine diEE. d-cystine diEE and d-cystine diME may be clinically useful agents that can effectively reverse the negative effects of morphine on breathing and gas-exchange in the lungs while promoting antinociception. Our study suggests that the d-cystine thiolesters are able to differentially modulate the intracellular signaling cascades that mediate morphine-induced ventilatory depression as opposed to those that mediate morphine-induced antinociception and sedation.
Comparison of the triglyceride glucose index and blood leukocyte indices as predictors of metabolic syndrome in healthy Chinese population
Authors: Lin Hai-Yan , Zhang Xiu-Juan , Liu Yu-Mei , Geng Ling-Yun , Guan Li-Ying , Li Xiao-Hong
Published: May 2021

Triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and inflammatory markers are reported to have a positive association with metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, no previous study has assessed the value of TyG index and inflammatory markers as predictors of metabolic syndrome in the same study. This study looks at the comparison of the triglyceride index and blood leukocyte indices as predictors of metabolic syndrome in the Chinese population. The study cohort involved 1542 Chinese population without metabolic syndrome. The subjects underwent comprehensive routine health examination in 2011 and returned for a follow-up examination in 2016. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to Chinese Diabetes Society criteria, using body mass index for the replacement of waist circumference. TyG index, total leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were measured. Adjust d logistic models were used to assess the relationship between TyG index, blood leukocyte indices, and incident MetS. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to determine the predictive value of TyG index and blood leukocyte indices for MetS. Results from multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that, in the adjusted model, the subjects with the highest quartile of TyG index and neutrophils had a 3.894- and 1.663-fold increased incidence of MetS (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.027), respectively. No significant association was observed between total leukocytes, lymphocytes, NLR with incident MetS. ROC analysis showed that the AUC of TyG index and neutrophils were 0.674 and 0.568 for incident MetS, respectively. TyG index rather than blood leukocyte indices may have the strongest predictive value in MetS development over a 5-year period.
Thermoelectric transports in pristine and functionalized boron phosphide monolayers
Authors: Li Min-Shan , Mo Dong-Chuan , Lyu Shu-Shen
Published: May 2021

Recently, a new monolayer Group III–V material, two-dimensional boron phosphide (BP), has shown great potential for energy storage and energy conversion applications. We study the thermoelectric properties of BP monolayer as well as the effect of functionalization by first-principles calculation and Boltzmann transport theory. Combined with a moderate bandgap of 0.90 eV and ultra-high carrier mobility, a large ZT value of 0.255 at 300 K is predicted for two-dimensional BP. While the drastically reduced thermal conductivity in hydrogenated and fluorinated BP is favored for thermoelectric conversion, the decreased carrier mobility has limited the improvement of thermoelectric figure of merit.
Comparison of auditory sensations in patients who underwent cataract phacoemulsification surgery in the first and second eye
Authors: Konopińska Joanna , Ługowska Dorota , Mariak Zofia , Obuchowska Iwona
Published: May 2021

To compare subjective auditory sensations of patients during the first and second eye cataract surgeries. Consecutive patients who underwent phacoemulsification of the first eye (group I) and second eye (group II) completed questionnaires designed to evaluate their auditory sensations in the operating room including background music, sound of working equipment, staff conversations, and surgeon’s voice. This study included 124 patients in group I and 76 patients in group II. Patients most often heard nursing staff’s conversations (91.9% and 96%, respectively, p > 0.05), surgeon’s voice (87.9% and 86.8%, respectively, p > 0.05), and music (70.9% and 75%, respectively, p > 0.05). Music was the most pleasant experience (78.2% and 78.9%, respectively, p > 0.05). The sound of the working phacoemulsifier was the most undesirable sound (20.2% and 15.8%, respectively, p > 0.05). Patients in group II more often indicated that none of the sounds required elimination (69.7% and 52.6%, respectively, p = 0.013) or that staff conversations should be eliminated (13.2% and 3.1%, respectively, p = 0.005). The most desirable sounds during phacoemulsification include music and the surgeon’s voice regarding the procedure. The most unpleasant sound was that that of phacoemulsifier. The commonest sounds to be eliminated in groups I and II included those of equipment and staff conversations.
Homopeptide and homocodon levels across fungi are coupled to GC/AT-bias and intrinsic disorder, with unique behaviours for some amino acids
Authors: Wang Yue , Harrison Paul M.
Published: May 2021

Homopeptides (runs of one amino-acid type) are evolutionarily important since they are prone to expand/contract during DNA replication, recombination and repair. To gain insight into the genomic/proteomic traits driving their variation, we analyzed how homopeptides and homocodons (which are pure codon repeats) vary across 405 Dikarya, and probed their linkage to genome GC/AT bias and other factors. We find that amino-acid homopeptide frequencies vary diversely between clades, with the AT-rich Saccharomycotina trending distinctly. As organisms evolve, homocodon and homopeptide numbers are majorly coupled to GC/AT-bias, exhibiting a bi-furcated correlation with degree of AT- or GC-bias. Mid-GC/AT genomes tend to have markedly fewer simply because they are mid-GC/AT. Despite these trends, homopeptides tend to be GC-biased relative to other parts of coding sequences, even in AT-rich organisms, indicating they absorb AT bias less or are inherently more GC-rich. The most frequent and most variable homopeptide amino acids favour intrinsic disorder, and there are an opposing correlation and anti-correlation versus homopeptide levels for intrinsic disorder and structured-domain content respectively. Specific homopeptides show unique behaviours that we suggest are linked to inherent slippage probabilities during DNA replication and recombination, such as poly-glutamine, which is an evolutionarily very variable homopeptide with a codon repertoire unbiased for GC/AT, and poly-lysine whose homocodons are overwhelmingly made from the codon AAG.
Author Correction: The influence of different sample preparation on mechanical properties of human iliotibial tract
Authors: Fischer Benjamin , Kurz Sascha , Höch Andreas , Schleifenbaum Stefan
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Androgen receptor and its splice variant, AR-V7, differentially induce mRNA splicing in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Rana Manjul , Dong Jianrong , Robertson Matthew J. , Basil Paul , Coarfa Cristian , Weigel Nancy L.
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Sequential production of gametes during meiosis in trypanosomes
Authors: Peacock Lori , Kay Chris , Farren Chloe , Bailey Mick , Carrington Mark , Gibson Wendy
Published: May 2021

Meiosis is a core feature of eukaryotes that occurs in all major groups, including the early diverging excavates. In this group, meiosis and production of haploid gametes have been described in the pathogenic protist, Trypanosoma brucei, and mating occurs in the salivary glands of the insect vector, the tsetse fly. Here, we searched for intermediate meiotic stages among trypanosomes from tsetse salivary glands. Many different cell types were recovered, including trypanosomes in Meiosis I and gametes. Significantly, we found trypanosomes containing three nuclei with a 1:2:1 ratio of DNA contents. Some of these cells were undergoing cytokinesis, yielding a mononucleate gamete and a binucleate cell with a nuclear DNA content ratio of 1:2. This cell subsequently produced three more gametes in two further rounds of division. Expression of the cell fusion protein HAP2 (GCS1) was not confined to gametes, but also extended to meiotic intermediates. We propose a model whereby the two nuclei resulting from Meiosis I undergo asynchronous Meiosis II divisions with sequential production of haploid gametes.
Ionic polaron in a Bose-Einstein condensate
Authors: Astrakharchik Grigory E. , Ardila Luis A. Peña , Schmidt Richard , Jachymski Krzysztof , Negretti Antonio
Published: May 2021

The presence of strong interactions in a many-body quantum system can lead to a variety of exotic effects. Here we show that even in a comparatively simple setup consisting of a charged impurity in a weakly interacting bosonic medium the competition of length scales gives rise to a highly correlated mesoscopic state. Using quantum Monte Carlo simulations, we unravel its vastly different polaronic properties compared to neutral quantum impurities. Moreover, we identify a transition between the regime amenable to conventional perturbative treatment in the limit of weak atom-ion interactions and a many-body bound state with vanishing quasi-particle residue composed of hundreds of atoms. In order to analyze the structure of the corresponding states, we examine the atom-ion and atom-atom correlation functions which both show nontrivial properties. Our findings are directly relevant to experiments using hybrid atom-ion setups that have recently attained the ultracold regime.
Late Holocene canyon-carving floods in northern Iceland were smaller than previously reported
Authors: van der Bilt Willem G. M. , Barr Iestyn D. , Berben Sarah M. P. , Hennekam Rick , Lane Timothy , Adamson Kathryn , Bakke Jostein
Published: May 2021

Catastrophic floods have formed deep bedrock canyons on Earth, but the relationship between peak discharge and bedrock erosion is not clearly understood. This hinders efforts to use geological evidence of these cataclysmic events to constrain their magnitude – a prerequisite for impact assessments. Here, we combine proxy evidence from slackwater sediments with topographic models and hydraulic simulations to constrain the Late Holocene flood history of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river in northern Iceland. We date floods to 3.5, 1.5 and 1.35 thousand years ago and confirm that flow peaks during these events were at most a third of previous estimates. Nevertheless, exposure ages suggests that nearby knickpoints retreated by more than 2 km during these floods. These findings support a growing consensus that the extent of bedrock erosion is not necessarily controlled by discharge and that canyon-carving floods may be smaller than typically assumed.
Metal-free photocatalytic hydrosilylation of olefins in the presence of photoinitiators
Authors: Yu Zehao , Dai Zinan , Bai Ying , Li Jiayun , Yan Yan , Peng Jiajian
Published: May 2021

Photocatalytic hydrosilylation of olefins.
Nanoscopic interactions of colloidal particles can suppress millimetre drop splashing
Authors: Thoraval Marie-Jean , Schubert Jonas , Karpitschka Stefan , Chanana Munish , Boyer François , Sandoval-Naval Enrique , Dijksman J. Frits , Snoeijer Jacco H. , Lohse Detlef
Published: May 2021

The presence of nanoparticles in a millimetric liquid drop impacting on a solid surface can suppress splashing at higher impact velocities. This mechanism is affected by the nanoparticles concentration and the coating molecules at their surface.
A facile aptasensor based on polydopamine nanospheres for high-sensitivity sensing of T-2 toxin
Authors: Guo Ting , Wang Changchang , Zhou Hongyuan , Zhang Yuhao , Ma Liang , Wang Shuo
Published: May 2021

A facile aptasensor based on PDANSs and FAM-aptamer was constructed for the rapid and high sensitive detection of T-2. PDANSs are introduced as quenchers due to excellent fluorescence quenching ability, dispersibility and biocompatibility.
Correction: In vivo modulation of ubiquitin chains by N-methylated non-proteinogenic cyclic peptides
Authors: Rogers Joseph M. , Nawatha Mickal , Lemma Betsegaw , Vamisetti Ganga B. , Livneh Ido , Barash Uri , Vlodavsky Israel , Ciechanover Aaron , Fushman David , Suga Hiroaki , Brik Ashraf
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘In vivo modulation of ubiquitin chains by N-methylated non-proteinogenic cyclic peptides’ by Joseph M. Rogers et al., RSC Chem. Biol., 2021, 2, 513–522, DOI: 10.1039/D0CB00179A.
Photoactivatable fluorophores for durable labelling of individual cells
Authors: Kashima Hiroki , Kamiya Mako , Obata Fumiaki , Kojima Ryosuke , Nakano Shotaro , Miura Masayuki , Urano Yasuteru
Published: May 2021

Photoactivatable SPiDERs can fluorescently label cells upon light irradiation, and the fluorescent signal is durable and compatible with immunostaining.
Six CoIIcoordination polymers exhibiting UV-light-driven photocatalysis for the degradation of organic dyes
Authors: Lu Xue , Zhao Ying , Wang Xiu-Li , Liu Guo-Cheng , Xu Na , Lin Hong-Yan , Wang Xiang
Published: May 2021

Six different CoIIcoordination polymers based on a new bis-pyridyl-bis-amide and polycarboxylates were obtained, showing photocatalytic activity for organic dyes.
Contrasting the EXAFS obtained under air and H2 environments to reveal details of the surface structure of Pt–Sn nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Haoliang , Nassr Abu Bakr Ahmed Amine , Celorrio Verónica , Gianolio Diego , Hardacre Christopher , Brett Dan J. L. , Russell Andrea E.
Published: May 2021

Details of the surface structure of bimetallic catalysts, essential in heterogeneous and electro-catalysis, obtained by analysis of EXAFS data under different atmospheres.
Tuning up the photovoltaic performances upon the utility of diketopyrrolopyrrole in PEO-based gel polymer electrolytes
Authors: Kumar Sanath , Panigrahi Pranshula , Mohanty S. , Nayak S. K. , Palai Akshaya Kumar
Published: May 2021

Schematic illustration of the electron transfer mechanism taking place in the fabricated DSSC with PEO/DPP-H/PC/TPAI/KI/I2 gel electrolyte.
Ferrocenylated 1,3,5-triphenylbenzenes for the electrochemical detection of various cations or anions
Authors: Kasprzak Artur , Kasprzak Natalia , Kowalczyk Agata , Nowicka Anna M.
Published: May 2021

Triferrocene derivatives of 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene were synthesized and applied for the electrochemical detection of various anions and cations.
Introduction to CO2 utilisation
Authors: Yu Da-Gang , He Liang-Nian
Published: May 2021

Liang-Nian He and Da-Gang Yu introduce the themed collection on CO2 utilisation.
Preparation of “pomegranate”-like QD/SiO2/poly(St-co-MAA) fluorescent nanobeads in two steps to improve stability and biocompatibility
Authors: Xu Qianrui , Wang Yang , Gao Pengcheng , Jiang Yong
Published: May 2021

Fluorescent nanobeads are widely used due to their advantages of visualization, sensitivity and the quantitative measurement of target analytes.
Correction: g-C3N4@Ce-MOF Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyzed cascade aerobic oxidative functionalization of styrene
Authors: Karimi Meghdad , Sadeghi Samira , Gavinehroudi Reza Ghahremani , Mohebali Haleh , Mahjoub Alireza , Heydari Akbar
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘g-C3N4@Ce-MOF Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyzed cascade aerobic oxidative functionalization of styrene’ by Meghdad Karimi et al., New J. Chem., 2021, 45, 6671–6681, DOI: 10.1039/D1NJ00120E.
Gold cluster-loaded dendritic nanosilica: single particle luminescence and catalytic properties in the bulk
Authors: Mohanty Jyoti Sarita , Maity Ayan , Ahuja Tripti , Chaudhari Kamalesh , Srikrishnarka Pillalamarri , Polshettiwar Vivek , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: May 2021

A single particle luminescence imaging using the hybrid material, DFNS@AuQCBSA.
ZIF-8 derived hollow carbon to trap polysulfides for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Rana Masud , Kim Jeonghum , Peng Lingyi , Qiu He , Kaiser Rejaul , Ran Lingbing , Hossain Md. Shahriar A. , Luo Bin , Gentle Ian , Wang Lianzhou , Knibbe Ruth , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: May 2021

The commercial application of Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) is impeded by the shuttle effect. We report zinc (Zn) and nitrogen (N) co-doped ZIF-8 derived hollow carbon (ZHC) as a promising separator coating for LSBs to control the shuttle effect.
Optimizing supramolecular fluorescent materials with responsive multi-color tunability toward soft biomimetic skins
Authors: Si Muqing , Shi Huihui , Liu Hao , Shang Hui , Yin Guangqiang , Wei Shuxin , Wu Shuangshuang , Lu Wei , Chen Tao
Published: May 2021

A robust supramolecular fluorescent soft material with both multi-color tunability and room-temperature self-healing features is presented, and further applied to the construction of soft biomimetic camouflage and display skins for commercial robots.
DNA nanostructure-based nucleic acid probes: construction and biological applications
Authors: Wang Dong-Xia , Wang Jing , Wang Ya-Xin , Du Yi-Chen , Huang Yan , Tang An-Na , Cui Yun-Xi , Kong De-Ming
Published: May 2021

In recent years, DNA has been widely noted as a kind of material that can be used to construct building blocks for biosensing, in vivo imaging, drug development, and disease therapy because of its advantages of good biocompatibility and programmable properties.
Strategic molecular design of closo-ortho-carboranyl luminophores to manifest thermally activated delayed fluorescence
Authors: You Dong Kyun , So Hyunhee , Ryu Chan Hee , Kim Mingi , Lee Kang Mun
Published: May 2021

The first example of a closo-o-carboranyl compound demonstrating thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) nature in solution is shown, and a strategic molecular design of a closo-o-carboranyl luminophore to exhibit TADF is proposed.
Conformational changes during the reaction cycle of plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase in the autoinhibited and activated states
Authors: Saffioti Nicolás A. , de Sautu Marilina , Riesco Ana Sol , Ferreira-Gomes Mariela S. , Rossi Juan Pablo F. C. , Mangialavori Irene C.
Published: May 2021

Plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA) transports Ca2+ by a reaction cycle including phosphorylated intermediates. Calmodulin binding to the C-terminal tail disrupts autoinhibitory interactions, activating the pump. To assess the conformational changes during the reaction cycle, we studied the structure of different PMCA states using a fluorescent probe, hydrophobic photolabeling, controlled proteolysis and Ca2+-ATPase activity. Our results show that calmodulin binds to E2P-like states, and during dephosphorylation, the hydrophobicity in the nucleotide-binding pocket decreases and the Ca2+ binding site becomes inaccessible to the extracellular medium. Autoinhibitory interactions are disrupted in E1Ca and in the E2P ground state whereas they are stabilized in the E2·Pi product state. Finally, we propose a model that describes the conformational changes during the Ca2+ transport of PMCA.
Surveillance video motion segmentation based on the progressive spatio‐temporal tunnel flow model
Authors: Zhang Yunzuo , Li Wenxuan , Yang Panliang
Published: May 2021

Motion segmentation is the first and important step of surveillance video summarisation, and traditional motion segmentation methods usually process all video data, which seriously affects the real‐time performance of video synopsis. To address this issue, a novel method of surveillance video motion segmentation based on the progressive spatio‐temporal tunnel (STT) flow model is proposed in this letter. Unlike traditional video segmentation methods, the proposed one only analyses the pixels on the circular sampling lines of video frames. Initially, the circular progressive STT is established by sampling pixels progressively. Subsequently, the progressive STT is expanded to form an STT expansion diagram and the STT expansion diagram is modelled as progressive STT flow. Finally, surveillance video motion fragments are segmented according to the progressive STT flow model. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the existing state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of time consumption. This is accomplished with a comparable motion segmentation precision.
Detecting ultra-high-energy cosmic ray anisotropies through harmonic cross-correlations
Authors: Urban Federico R. , Camera Stefano , Alonso David
Published: May 2021

We propose an observable for ultra-high-energy cosmic ray (UHECR) physics: the harmonic-space cross-correlation power spectrum between the arrival directions of UHECRs and the large-scale cosmic structure mapped by galaxies. This cross-correlation has not yet been considered in the literature, and it permits a direct theoretical modelling of the main astrophysical components. We describe the expected form of the cross-correlation and show how, if the distribution of UHECR sources traces the large-scale cosmic structure, it could be easier to detect with current data than the UHECR auto-correlation. Moreover, the cross-correlation is more sensitive to UHECR anisotropies on smaller angular scales, it is more robust to systematic uncertainties, and it could be used to determine the redshift distribution of UHECR sources, making it a valuable tool for determining their origins and properties.
Expected performances of the PROBA-3/ASPIICS solar coronagraph: Simulated data
Authors: Shestov S. V. , Zhukov A. N. , Inhester B. , Dolla L. , Mierla M.
Published: May 2021

Context.The Association of Spacecraft for Polarimetric and Imaging Investigation of the Corona of the Sun (ASPIICS) is a novel externally occulted solar coronagraph that will be launched on board the Project for On-Board Autonomy (PROBA-3) mission in 2023. The external occulter will be placed on the first satellite ∼150 m ahead of the second satellite, which will carry an optical instrument. During 6 hours per orbit, the satellites will fly in a precise formation and will constitute a giant externally occulted coronagraph. The large distance between the external occulter and the primary objective will allow observations of the white-light solar corona starting from extremely low heights of ∼1.1 R⊙.

Aims.Developing and testing of algorithms for the scientific image processing requires understanding of all the optics-related and detector-related effects of the coronagraph, development of appropriate physical and numerical models, and preparation of simulated images that include all these effects. At the same time, an analysis of the simulated data gives valuable information about the performance of the instrument, the suitable observation regime, and the amount of telemetry.

Methods.We used available physical models of the instrument and implemented them as a software to generate simulated data. We analyzed intermediate and complete simulated images to obtain a better understanding of the performance of ASPIICS, in particular, to predict its photometric sensitivity, effect of noise, suitable exposure times, etc.

Results.The proposed models and algorithms are used not only to create the simulated data, but also to form the basis for the scientific processing algorithms to be applied during on-ground ASPIICS data processing. We discuss the possible effect of noise and the uncertainty of the calibration factors on the accuracy of final data, and propose suitable exposure times.
On the size distribution of spots within sunspot groups
Authors: Mandal Sudip , Krivova Natalie A. , Cameron Robert , Solanki Sami K.
Published: May 2021

The size distribution of sunspots provides key information about the generation and emergence processes of the solar magnetic field. Previous studies of size distribution have primarily focused on either the whole group or individual spot areas. In this paper we investigate the organisation of spot areas within sunspot groups. In particular, we analysed the ratio (R) of the area of the biggest spot (Abig_spot) inside a group, to the total area of that group (Agroup). We used sunspot observations from Kislovodsk, Pulkovo, and Debrecen observatories, together covering solar cycles 17–24. We find that at the time when the group area reaches its maximum, the single biggest spot in a group typically occupies about 60% of the group area. For half of all groups, R lies in the range between roughly 50% and 70%. We also find R to change with Agroup, such that R reaches a maximum of about 0.65 for groups with Agroup ≈ 200 μHem and then remains at about 0.6 for larger groups. Our findings imply a scale-invariant emergence pattern, providing an observational constraint on the emergence process. Furthermore, extrapolation of our results to larger sunspot groups may have a bearing on the giant unresolved starspot features found in Doppler images of highly active Sun-like stars. Our results suggest that such giant features are composed of multiple spots, with the largest spot occupying roughly 55–75% of the total group area (i.e., the area of the giant starspots seen in Doppler images).
French trainers’ beliefs on problems and computing
Authors: Cabassut Richard , Simard Arnaud
Published: May 2021

We present an exploratory research based on an online questionnaire to better understand the French trainers’ beliefs on problems and computing from grades 1 to 3 of primary school. We explain the French context of the new 2016 curriculum and of the 2018 report on mathematics teaching that motivates the content and the interest of the questionnaire. The results show trainers’ heterogeneity although some beliefs are dominant. A cluster analysis proposes three trainer’s types that could help to organize the training on teaching of problems and computing. This research could go on with paragons’ semi-directed interviews.
Difficultés de la transition du lycée à l’université : Cas de l’enseignement des mathématiques au Maroc
Authors: Nachit Brahim , Harraq Jamal , Hattaf Khalid
Published: May 2021

La transition lycée - université est un moment difficile pour les étudiants poursuivant des études scientifiques ; particulièrement en mathématiques, c’est un problème délicat, reconnu à l’échelle internationale. La question de l’amélioration de la transition entre l’enseignement au lycée et l’enseignement à l’université concernant l’enseignement des mathématiques, ne date pas d’aujourd’hui, elle a été abordée par plusieurs mathématiciens et didacticiens. Le but de cette recherche est d’identifier et d’interpréter les difficultés des étudiants en mathématiques à la transition lycée – université. L’analyse des travaux dirigés et des cours de la première année scientifique, l’analyse des manuels de mathématiques de la dernière année du lycée et l’entretien semi-directif avec des professeurs de l’université, ont permis d’identifier les difficultés des étudiants de la première année universitaire et de déterminer les continuités et les ruptures dans les pratiques et modes d’enseignement de mathématiques, entre la dernière année du lycée et la première année des études supérieures et en particulier celle de l’université marocaine. Des recommandations ont été proposées pour prendre en charge certaines difficultés repérées lors de l’enseignement-apprentissage des mathématiques en première année universitaire, aider les élèves à préparer leur passage vers l’enseignement supérieur et diminuer le taux d’échec.
Caractérisation des raisonnements des élèves Marocains de 11 à 13 ans dans la résolution de problèmes algébriques
Authors: Abouhanifa Said
Published: May 2021

Cette étude vise la caractérisation des différents types de raisonnements des élèves selon leur degré d’analycité et la nature du registre de représentation sémiotique. Pour cela, nous avons administré un questionnaire formé de cinq problèmes de comparaison à un échantillon comportant 518 élèves marocains de 23 classes, qui appartiennent à 19 établissements scolaires de la 6e primaire et du secondaire collégial. Nous avons exploité dans notre cadre d’analyse, la grille développée par Squalli et al, (2020) [1]. Les résultats dégagés laissent apparaître que les élèves de notre échantillon mettent en évidence des catégories de raisonnement analytique et à tendance analytique bien que peu figurées sont également présentes, essentiellement chez les élèves des classes de 6e année primaire.
La place de la modélisation dans l’enseignement de l’algèbre élémentaire: Pratiques institutionnelles et pratiques enseignantes dans le système éducatif tunisien
Authors: Ben Nejma Sonia
Published: May 2021

Considérant l’évolution du curriculum d’enseignement des mathématiques vers une approche de la discipline par la modélisation, nous nous intéressons ici, aux contraintes de l’implantation de cette démarche dans l’enseignement secondaire tunisien. Cette question est abordée à travers deux dimensions des pratiques enseignantes, une dimension institutionnelle qui se base sur une analyse des praxéologies mathématiques développées par l’institution autour de la modélisation, notamment, dans le domaine de l’algèbre élémentaire, au cycle secondaire, et une dimension professionnelle qui est approchée par les pratiques déclaratives des enseignants, selon les points de vue, épistémologique, fonctionnel et organisationnel. Les analyses sont conduites dans le cadre de la Théorie Anthropologique du Didactique et s’inspirent du modèle proposé par Blum et Leiss. L’articulation de ces deux dimensions des pratiques permet de mieux comprendre la logique d’action des enseignants et les obstacles rencontrés dans la mise en oeuvre de cette démarche au niveau des pratiques effectives.
Identification de quelques difficultés d’enseignement–apprentissage des concepts d’électricité au cycle collégial marocain
Authors: Raissouni Mohammed Rabih , Abid Mohammed , Chakir El Mahjoub
Published: May 2021

Le but de ce travail est de dévoiler quelques difficultés de l’enseignement–apprentissage des concepts d’électricité enseignés au cycle collégial marocain et notamment les concepts d’intensité du courant électrique (I) et de la tension électrique (U). Notre étude exploratoire se fonde sur les résultats recueillis auprès d’un échantillon constitué de deux types de groupes: 1) Les apprenants de la 1èreet 2èmeannée collégiale pour savoir à quel point ils maitrisent ces deux concepts ; 2) les enseignants des sciences physiques du cycle collégial, pour identifier les difficultés rencontrées lors de l’enseignement de ces concepts. Les résultats de ce travail montrent que les apprenants du collège ont des difficultés cognitives et perceptives relatives aux concepts d’intensité et tension électriques. De plus la plupart des enseignants questionnés déclarent que les difficultés majeures qu’ils rencontrent ont une relation avec le concept lui-même, la communication avec les élèves ou l’absence des séances de travaux pratiques.
Les connaissances des enseignants universitaires algériens sur la notion de modèle scientifique
Authors: Houatis Djamel
Published: May 2021

Dans les activités du physicien, les ensembles indissociables théorie et modèle, expérimentation et modélisation sont omniprésents. La question de passage du concret à l’abstrait, de l’expérimentation à sa traduction formalisée passe obligatoirement par la prise en compte de “modèles”. Cette composante pour un physicien est devenue très courante dans son discours scientifique, à tel point qu’il est devenu difficile à contourner. Dans cette étude, nous allons interroger un échantillon d’enseignants universitaires en exercice sur leurs conceptions et leurs utilisations des modèles. La grille d’analyse de nos résultats est basée sur des thèmes centraux préalablement sélectionnés. Les résultats de cette étude peuvent être pris en compte dans la conception des programmes afin de guider les enseignants à choisir une démarche appropriée d’enseignementapprentissage permettant de conduire leurs apprenants à la construction des modèles et à la pratique d’une activité de modélisation.
L’apprentissage collaboratif: Une forme de recherche collective reconfigurée par l’usage des TIC?
Authors: Baudrit Alain
Published: May 2021

L’apprentissage collaboratif est une forme d’activité collective dont on peut trouver les origines notamment chez Dewey [1] qui préconisait la pratique d’enquête (practical inquiry) au sein de l’institution scolaire. Confrontés à des situations incertaines ou problématiques, les élèves réunis en groupes peuvent ainsi explorer, expérimenter ou rechercher ensemble, ce qui peut les amener à faire des découvertes en matière de savoirs ou de connaissances. Réalisable en présentiel, ce type d’activité collective l’est également à distance grâce à l’usage des TIC (Technologies de l’Information et de la Communication). Est-ce que ces dernières sont de nature à reconfigurer une telle activité? Si oui, dans quels sens? Est-il possible d’envisager des formes d’hybridation (combinaison de dispositifs en présentiel et à distance) en termes d’apprentissages ou d’acquisitions de connaissances? Ces questions sont examinées sur la base de travaux réalisés dans les domaines de l’éducation et de la formation.
Retracted article: Elaboration d'un dispositif d'évaluation diagnostique de l'organisation administrative et pédagogique d'un établissement d'enseignement
Authors: Eseghir Abdelhak , Berbar Hicham , Latifi Mohamed , Hattaf Khalid , Achtaich Naceur
Published: May 2021

The Guest Editors of the proceedings are issuing an editorial concern for this Article. Shortly after publication of this Article in May 2021, the Publisher was alerted by one of the authors Hicham Berbar that he never approved to be listed in the current Authors list. Furthermore, the Author points out that the published paper is a very similar copy to his 2018 PFE report defended at the “Centre de formation des inspecteurs de l’enseignement” (CFIE). The Publisher and the guest editors confirm that Hicham Berbar scientific concern should be addressed. Therefore, this article has been withdrawn from publication.
On the multi-species Boltzmann equation with uncertainty and its stochastic Galerkin approximation
Authors: Daus Esther S. , Jin Shi , Liu Liu
Published: May 2021

In this paper the nonlinear multi-species Boltzmann equation with random uncertainty coming from the initial data and collision kernel is studied. Well-posedness and long-time behavior – exponential decay to the global equilibrium – of the analytical solution, and spectral gap estimate for the corresponding linearized gPC-based stochastic Galerkin system are obtained, by using and extending the analytical tools provided in [M. Briant and E.S. Daus,Arch. Ration. Mech. Anal.3(2016) 1367–1443] for the deterministic problem in the perturbative regime, and in [E.S. Daus, S. Jin and L. Liu,Kinet. Relat. Models12(2019) 909–922] for the single-species problem with uncertainty. The well-posedness result of the sensitivity system presented here has not been obtained so far neither in the single species case nor in the multi-species case.