bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying microscale drivers for fatigue failure via coupled synchrotron X-ray characterization and simulations
Authors: Gustafson Sven , Ludwig Wolfgang , Shade Paul , Naragani Diwakar , Pagan Darren , Cook Phil , Yildirim Can , Detlefs Carsten , Sangid Michael D.
Published: June 2020

During cyclic loading, localization of intragranular deformation due to crystallographic slip acts as a precursor for crack initiation, often at coherent twin boundaries. A suite of high-resolution synchrotron X-ray characterizations, coupled with a crystal plasticity simulation, was conducted on a polycrystalline nickel-based superalloy microstructure near a parent-twin boundary in order to understand the deformation localization behavior of this critical, 3D microstructural configuration. Dark-field X-ray microscopy was spatially linked to high energy X-ray diffraction microscopy and X-ray diffraction contrast tomography in order to quantify, with cutting-edge resolution, an intragranular misorientation and high elastic strain gradients near a twin boundary. These observations quantify the extreme sub-grain scale stress gradients present in polycrystalline microstructures, which often lead to fatigue failure.
The role of mPFC and MTL neurons in human choice under goal-conflict
Authors: Gazit Tomer , Gonen Tal , Gurevitch Guy , Cohen Noa , Strauss Ido , Zeevi Yoav , Yamin Hagar , Fahoum Firas , Hendler Talma , Fried Itzhak
Published: June 2020

Resolving approach-avoidance conflicts relies on encoding motivation outcomes and learning from past experiences. Accumulating evidence points to the role of the Medial Temporal Lobe (MTL) and Medial Prefrontal Cortex (mPFC) in these processes, but their differential contributions have not been convincingly deciphered in humans. We detect 310 neurons from mPFC and MTL from patients with epilepsy undergoing intracranial recordings and participating in a goal-conflict task where rewards and punishments could be controlled or not. mPFC neurons are more selective to punishments than rewards when controlled. However, only MTL firing following punishment is linked to a lower probability for subsequent approach behavior. mPFC response to punishment precedes a similar MTL response and affects subsequent behavior via an interaction with MTL firing. We thus propose a model where approach-avoidance conflict resolution in humans depends on outcome value tagging in mPFC neurons influencing encoding of such value in MTL to affect subsequent choice.
Synergism between IL7R and CXCR4 drives BCR-ABL induced transformation in Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Abdelrasoul Hend , Vadakumchery Anila , Werner Markus , Lenk Lennart , Khadour Ahmad , Young Marc , El Ayoubi Omar , Vogiatzi Fotini , Krämer Markus , Schmid Vera , Chen Zhengshan , Yousafzai Yasar , Cario Gunnar , Schrappe Martin , Müschen Markus , Halsey Christina , Mulaw Medhanie A. , Schewe Denis M. , Hobeika Elias , Alsadeq Ameera , Jumaa Hassan
Published: June 2020

Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is characterized by the expression of an oncogenic fusion kinase termed BCR-ABL1. Here, we show that interleukin 7 receptor (IL7R) interacts with the chemokine receptor CXCR4 to recruit BCR-ABL1 and JAK kinases in close proximity. Treatment with BCR-ABL1 kinase inhibitors results in elevated expression of IL7R which enables the survival of transformed cells when IL7 was added together with the kinase inhibitors. Importantly, treatment with anti-IL7R antibodies prevents leukemia development in xenotransplantation models using patient-derived Ph+ ALL cells. Our results suggest that the association between IL7R and CXCR4 serves as molecular platform for BCR-ABL1-induced transformation and development of Ph+ ALL. Targeting this platform with anti-IL7R antibody eliminates Ph+ ALL cells including those with resistance to commonly used ABL1 kinase inhibitors. Thus, anti-IL7R antibodies may provide alternative treatment options for ALL in general and may suppress incurable drug-resistant leukemia forms.
Large magnetoelectric coupling in multiferroic oxide heterostructures assembled via epitaxial lift-off
Authors: Pesquera D. , Khestanova E. , Ghidini M. , Zhang S. , Rooney A. P. , Maccherozzi F. , Riego P. , Farokhipoor S. , Kim J. , Moya X. , Vickers M. E. , Stelmashenko N. A. , Haigh S. J. , Dhesi S. S. , Mathur N. D.
Published: June 2020

Epitaxial films may be released from growth substrates and transferred to structurally and chemically incompatible substrates, but epitaxial films of transition metal perovskite oxides have not been transferred to electroactive substrates for voltage control of their myriad functional properties. Here we demonstrate good strain transmission at the incoherent interface between a strain-released film of epitaxially grown ferromagnetic La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 and an electroactive substrate of ferroelectric 0.68Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.32PbTiO3 in a different crystallographic orientation. Our strain-mediated magnetoelectric coupling compares well with respect to epitaxial heterostructures, where the epitaxy responsible for strong coupling can degrade film magnetization via strain and dislocations. Moreover, the electrical switching of magnetic anisotropy is repeatable and non-volatile. High-resolution magnetic vector maps reveal that micromagnetic behaviour is governed by electrically controlled strain and cracks in the film. Our demonstration should inspire others to control the physical/chemical properties in strain-released epitaxial oxide films by using electroactive substrates to impart strain via non-epitaxial interfaces.
Reconstruction of evolving nanostructures in ultrathin films with X-ray waveguide fluorescence holography
Authors: Jiang Zhang , Strzalka Joseph W. , Walko Donald A. , Wang Jin
Published: June 2020

Controlled synthesis of nanostructure ultrathin films is critical for applications in nanoelectronics, photonics, and energy generation and storage. The paucity of structural probes that are sensitive to nanometer-thick films and also capable of in-operando conditions with high spatiotemporal resolutions limits the understanding of morphology and dynamics in ultrathin films. Similar to X-ray fluorescence holography for crystals, where holograms are formed through the interference between the reference and the object waves, we demonstrated that an ultrathin film, being an X-ray waveguide, can also generate fluorescence holograms as a result of the establishment of X-ray standing waves. Coupled with model-independent reconstruction algorithms based on rigorous dynamical scattering theories, the thin-film-based X-ray waveguide fluorescence holography becomes a unique in situ and time-resolved imaging probe capable of elucidating the real-time nanostructure kinetics with unprecedented resolutions. Combined with chemical sensitive spectroscopic analysis, the reconstruction can yield element-specific morphology of embedding nanostructures in ultrathin films.
Economic use of plants is key to their naturalization success
Authors: van Kleunen Mark , Xu Xinyi , Yang Qiang , Maurel Noëlie , Zhang Zhijie , Dawson Wayne , Essl Franz , Kreft Holger , Pergl Jan , Pyšek Petr , Weigelt Patrick , Moser Dietmar , Lenzner Bernd , Fristoe Trevor S.
Published: June 2020

Humans cultivate thousands of economic plants (i.e. plants with economic value) outside their native ranges. To analyze how this contributes to naturalization success, we combine global databases on economic uses and naturalization success of the world’s seed plants. Here we show that naturalization likelihood is 18 times higher for economic than non-economic plants. Naturalization success is highest for plants grown as animal food or for environmental uses (e.g. ornamentals), and increases with number of uses. Taxa from the Northern Hemisphere are disproportionately over-represented among economic plants, and economic plants from Asia have the greatest naturalization success. In regional naturalized floras, the percentage of economic plants exceeds the global percentage and increases towards the equator. Phylogenetic patterns in the naturalized flora partly result from phylogenetic patterns in the plants we cultivate. Our study illustrates that accounting for the intentional introduction of economic plants is key to unravelling drivers of plant naturalization.
Connecting glass-forming ability of binary mixtures of soft particles to equilibrium melting temperatures
Authors: Nie Yunhuan , Liu Jun , Guo Jialing , Xu Ning
Published: June 2020

The glass-forming ability is an important material property for manufacturing glasses and understanding the long-standing glass transition problem. Because of the nonequilibrium nature, it is difficult to develop the theory for it. Here we report that the glass-forming ability of binary mixtures of soft particles is related to the equilibrium melting temperatures. Due to the distinction in particle size or stiffness, the two components in a mixture effectively feel different melting temperatures, leading to a melting temperature gap. By varying the particle size, stiffness, and composition over a wide range of pressures, we establish a comprehensive picture for the glass-forming ability, based on our finding of the direct link between the glass-forming ability and the melting temperature gap. Our study reveals and explains the pressure and interaction dependence of the glass-forming ability of model glass-formers, and suggests strategies to optimize the glass-forming ability via the manipulation of particle interactions.
Lithium-ion electrolytic substrates for sub-1V high-performance transition metal dichalcogenide transistors and amplifiers
Authors: Alam Md Hasibul , Xu Zifan , Chowdhury Sayema , Jiang Zhanzhi , Taneja Deepyanti , Banerjee Sanjay K. , Lai Keji , Braga Maria Helena , Akinwande Deji
Published: June 2020

Electrostatic gating of two-dimensional (2D) materials with ionic liquids (ILs), leading to the accumulation of high surface charge carrier densities, has been often exploited in 2D devices. However, the intrinsic liquid nature of ILs, their sensitivity to humidity, and the stress induced in frozen liquids inhibit ILs from constituting an ideal platform for electrostatic gating. Here we report a lithium-ion solid electrolyte substrate, demonstrating its application in high-performance back-gated n-type MoS2 and p-type WSe2 transistors with sub-threshold values approaching the ideal limit of 60 mV/dec and complementary inverter amplifier gain of 34, the highest among comparable amplifiers. Remarkably, these outstanding values were obtained under 1 V power supply. Microscopic studies of the transistor channel using microwave impedance microscopy reveal a homogeneous channel formation, indicative of a smooth interface between the TMD and underlying electrolytic substrate. These results establish lithium-ion substrates as a promising alternative to ILs for advanced thin-film devices.
Tuning reactivity of Fischer–Tropsch synthesis by regulating TiOx overlayer over Ru/TiO2 nanocatalysts
Authors: Zhang Yaru , Yang Xiaoli , Yang Xiaofeng , Duan Hongmin , Qi Haifeng , Su Yang , Liang Binglian , Tao Huabing , Liu Bin , Chen De , Su Xiong , Huang Yanqiang , Zhang Tao
Published: June 2020

The activity of Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) on metal-based nanocatalysts can be greatly promoted by the support of reducible oxides, while the role of support remains elusive. Herein, by varying the reduction condition to regulate the TiOx overlayer on Ru nanocatalysts, the reactivity of Ru/TiO2 nanocatalysts can be differentially modulated. The activity in FTS shows a volcano-like trend with increasing reduction temperature from 200 to 600 °C. Such a variation of activity is characterized to be related to the activation of CO on the TiOx overlayer at Ru/TiO2 interfaces. Further theoretical calculations suggest that the formation of reduced TiOx occurs facilely on the Ru surface, and it involves in the catalytic mechanism of FTS to facilitate the CO bond cleavage kinetically. This study provides a deep insight on the mechanism of TiOx overlayer in FTS, and offers an effective approach to tuning catalytic reactivity of metal nanocatalysts on reducible oxides.
Author Correction: Cellular census of human fibrosis defines functionally distinct stromal cell types and states
Authors: Layton Thomas B. , Williams Lynn , McCann Fiona , Zhang Mingjun , Fritzsche Marco , Colin-York Huw , Cabrita Marisa , Ng Michael T. H. , Feldmann Marc , Sansom Stephen N. , Furniss Dominic , Xie Weilin , Nanchahal Jagdeep
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Long lived second mode internal solitary waves in the Andaman Sea
Authors: Magalhaes J. M. , da Silva J. C. B. , Buijsman M. C.
Published: June 2020

Internal waves are density oscillations propagating along the ocean’s inner stratification, which are now acknowledged as a key constituent of the ocean’s dynamics. They usually result from barotropic tides, which flow over bottom topography, causing density oscillations to propagate along the pycnocline with a tidal frequency (i.e. internal tides). These large-scale waves propagate away from their forcing bathymetry and frequently disintegrate into nonlinear short-scale (higher-frequency) internal wave packets. Typically, short-scale internal wave observations in the ocean are associated with vertical structures (in the water column) of the lowest fundamental mode. Higher vertical modes have recently been documented as well, but these are commonly short-lived (up to a few hours). However, unprecedented satellite images showing long-lived short-scale mode-2 internal waves have now been documented in the Andaman Sea, and we report here the companion results of a non-hydrostatic and fully nonlinear numerical model. The simulations reproduce the waves’ main characteristics as observed in satellite imagery, and the results suggest a resonant coupling with a larger-scale mode-4 internal tide as an explanation for their long-lived character.
In-situ characterization of ultrathin nickel silicides using 3D medium-energy ion scattering
Authors: Tran Tuan Thien , Jablonka Lukas , Lavoie Christian , Zhang Zhen , Primetzhofer Daniel
Published: June 2020

Epitaxial ultrathin films are of utmost importance for state-of-the-art nanoelectronic devices, such as MOSFET transistors and non-volatile memories. At the same time, as the film thickness is reduced to a few nanometers, characterization of the materials is becoming challenging for commonly used methods. In this report, we demonstrate an approach for in-situ characterization of phase transitions of ultrathin nickel silicides using 3D medium-energy ion scattering. The technique provides simultaneously depth-resolved composition and real-space crystallography of the silicide films using a single sample and with a non-invasive probe. We show, for 10 nm Ni films on Si, that their composition follows a normal transition sequence, such as Ni-Ni2Si-NiSi. However, the transition process is significantly different for samples with initial Ni thickness of 3 nm. Depth-resolved crystallography shows that the Ni films transform from an as-deposited disordered layer to an epitaxial silicide layer at the temperature of ~290 °C, significantly lower than previously reported. The high depth resolution of the technique permits us to determine the composition of the ultrathin films to be 38% Ni and 62% Si.
Interferon-Dependent and Respiratory Virus-Specific Interference in Dual Infections of Airway Epithelia
Authors: Essaidi-Laziosi Manel , Geiser Johan , Huang Song , Constant Samuel , Kaiser Laurent , Tapparel Caroline
Published: June 2020

Many respiratory viruses cocirculate in the population and multiple infections are commonly reported. The clinical impact of coinfection is unclear and may vary depending on the viral couples involved. Using three-dimensional reconstituted human airway epithelia and clinical viral strains, we investigated the interaction between influenza virus (Flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus (RV). We showed that Flu and RSV interfere with RV replication, whereas RV does not interfere with either of these viruses. We then experimentally demonstrated that, when present, the interference is not related to a block of viral entry but rather to type I and type III interferon (IFN), the front-line antiviral defense of the respiratory mucosa. Consistent with this observation, we highlighted the differential sensitivity of each virus to IFNs, with RV being the only virus significantly inhibited by IFN-λ and the most sensitive to IFN-α. Finally, as type III IFN is of therapeutic interest due to its low proinflammatory profile, we also assessed and confirmed an inhibitory effect of IFN-λ in the context of persistent RV infections. The present work provides mechanistic clues concerning innate immunity involvement during respiratory virus interactions and confirms that IFN-λ is a promising candidate in the treatment of RV infections.
Robust detection of undifferentiated iPSC among differentiated cells
Authors: Sekine Keisuke , Tsuzuki Syusaku , Yasui Ryota , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Ikeda Kazuki , Hamada Yuki , Kanai Eriko , Camp J. Gray , Treutlein Barbara , Ueno Yasuharu , Okamoto Satoshi , Taniguchi Hideki
Published: June 2020

Recent progress in human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) technologies suggest that iPSC application in regenerative medicine is a closer reality. Numerous challenges prevent iPSC application in the development of numerous tissues and for the treatment of various diseases. A key concern in therapeutic applications is the safety of the cell products to be transplanted into patients. Here, we present novel method for detecting residual undifferentiated iPSCs amongst directed differentiated cells of all three germ lineages. Marker genes, which are expressed specifically and highly in undifferentiated iPSC, were selected from single cell RNA sequence data to perform robust and sensitive detection of residual undifferentiated cells in differentiated cell products. ESRG (Embryonic Stem Cell Related), CNMD (Chondromodulin), and SFRP2 (Secreted Frizzled Related Protein 2) were well-correlated with the actual amounts of residual undifferentiated cells and could be used to detect residual cells in a highly sensitive manner using qPCR. In addition, such markers could be used to detect residual undifferentiated cells from various differentiated cells, including hepatic cells and pancreatic cells for the endodermal lineage, endothelial cells and mesenchymal cells for the mesodermal lineage, and neural cells for the ectodermal lineage. Our method facilitates robust validation and could enhance the safety of the cell products through the exclusion of undifferentiated iPSC.
Interaction between multi-walled carbon nanotubes and propranolol
Authors: Nie Wenjie , Li Yani , Chen Leyuan , Zhao Zhicheng , Zuo Xin , Wang Dongdong , Zhao Lei , Feng Xinyue
Published: June 2020

Carbon nanotubes could accumulate in organism and have a negative impact on the structure and function of the ecosystem when they were discharged into environment. Furthermore, it will affect the migration and fate of pollutants in the water body. The study is mainly to explore the adsorption behavior and mechanism of beta-blocker on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Propranolol (PRO) was selected as the representative of beta-blocker. The effects of different environmental factors such as pH, ionic strength and humic acid (HA) on the adsorption process were investigated. The adsorption results were characterized by Zeta potential. At the same time, the effects of different types of drugs on the adsorption process were explored and the possible adsorption mechanisms were analyzed. The experimental results showed that the adsorption behavior was significantly different under different pH conditions. π-π EDA interaction, hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding were speculated to be the main adsorption mechanisms for PRO adsorption on MWCNTs.
Effect of an antioxidant supplement containing high dose lutein and zeaxanthin on macular pigment and skin carotenoid levels
Authors: Obana Akira , Gohto Yuko , Nakazawa Risa , Moriyama Takanobu , Gellermann Werner , Bernstein Paul S.
Published: June 2020

The effect of a high dose lutein/zeaxanthin supplement on macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and skin carotenoid (SC) levels in healthy subjects was investigated. This is a prospective, single-arm, open-label study. Subjects were 16 Japanese, age 26–57 years. Subjects took a supplement containing 20 mg/day of lutein, 4 mg/day of zeaxanthin, and other antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper) for 16 weeks. MPOD levels were measured by a two-wavelength autofluorescence imaging technique. SC levels were measured by reflection spectroscopy. Total volume of MPOD within 9° eccentricity significantly increased by week 8 and continued to increase until week 16 (p < 0.0001, two-way factorial ANOVA). The increase rate of MPOD was significantly higher in subjects with body mass index (BMI) less than 25 kg/m2 (n = 13) compared to those of 25 kg/m2 and higher (n = 3). SC levels increased significantly by week 4 and continued to increase until week 16 (p < 0.0001, two-way factorial ANOVA). All subjects completed the study without any serious adverse events. These results demonstrated the effectiveness of a high dose lutein/zeaxanthin supplement for MPOD volume and SC levels without serious adverse events.
Physics-guided probabilistic modeling of extreme precipitation under climate change
Authors: Kodra Evan , Bhatia Udit , Chatterjee Snigdhansu , Chen Stone , Ganguly Auroop Ratan
Published: June 2020

Earth System Models (ESMs) are the state of the art for projecting the effects of climate change. However, longstanding uncertainties in their ability to simulate regional and local precipitation extremes and related processes inhibit decision making. Existing state-of-the art approaches for uncertainty quantification use Bayesian methods to weight ESMs based on a balance of historical skills and future consensus. Here we propose an empirical Bayesian model that extends an existing skill and consensus based weighting framework and examine the hypothesis that nontrivial, physics-guided measures of ESM skill can help produce reliable probabilistic characterization of climate extremes. Specifically, the model leverages knowledge of physical relationships between temperature, atmospheric moisture capacity, and extreme precipitation intensity to iteratively weight and combine ESMs and estimate probability distributions of return levels. Out-of-sample validation suggests that the proposed Bayesian method, which incorporates physics-guidance, has the potential to derive reliable precipitation projections, although caveats remain and the gain is not uniform across all cases.
Quality of life in uncomplicated recurrent diverticulitis: surgical vs. conservative treatment
Authors: Justin Viktor , Uranues Selman , Rabl Hans , Fingerhut Abe
Published: June 2020

Elective sigmoid colectomy for recurrent uncomplicated diverticulitis remains controversial and is decided on an individual basis. Eighty patients treated conservatively (44 patients) or by elective surgery (36 patients) for recurrent uncomplicated diverticulitis were contacted and assessed for quality of life. The mean difference in quality of life scores was greater after surgery (overall + 2.14%, laparoscopic resection +4.95%, p = 0.36 and p = 0.11, respectively) as compared to conservative management. Female patients undergoing laparoscopic resection had statistically significantly higher quality of life scores than women treated conservatively (+8.98%; p = 0.049). Twenty-eight of 29 responding patients stated that they were highly satisfied and would have the operation done again. Elective sigmoidectomy is a valid treatment option for recurrent uncomplicated diverticulitis in terms of quality of life. Quality of life improved most if surgery was performed laparoscopically, especially in women.
Complete genome sequence of sixteen plant growth promoting Streptomyces strains
Authors: Subramaniam Gopalakrishnan , Thakur Vivek , Saxena Rachit K. , Vadlamudi Srinivas , Purohit Shilp , Kumar Vinay , Rathore Abhishek , Chitikineni Annapurna , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: June 2020

The genome sequences of 16 Streptomyces strains, showing potential for plant growth-promotion (PGP) activities in rice, sorghum, chickpea and pigeonpea, isolated from herbal vermicompost, have been decoded. The genome assemblies of the 16 Streptomyces strains ranged from 6.8 Mb to 8.31 Mb, with a GC content of 72 to 73%. The extent of sequence similarity (in terms of shared ortholog) in 16 Streptomyces strains showed 70 to 85% common genes to the closest publicly available Streptomyces genomes. It was possible to identify ~1,850 molecular functions across these 16 strains, of which close to 50% were conserved across the genomes of Streptomyces strains, whereas, ~10% were strain specific and the rest were present in various combinations. Genome assemblies of the 16 Streptomyces strains have also provided genes involved in key pathways related to PGP and biocontrol traits such as siderophores, auxin, hydrocyanic acid, chitinase and cellulase. Further, the genome assemblies provided better understanding of genetic similarity among target strains and with the publically available Streptomyces strains.
Human Adipocyte Conditioned Medium Promotes In Vitro Fibroblast Conversion to Myofibroblasts
Authors: El-Hattab Mariam Y. , Nagumo Yoshiaki , Gourronc Francoise A. , Klingelhutz Aloysius J. , Ankrum James A. , Sander Edward A.
Published: June 2020

Adipocytes and adipose tissue derived cells have been investigated for their potential to contribute to the wound healing process. However, the details of how these cells interact with other essential cell types, such as myofibroblasts/fibroblasts, remain unclear. Using a novel in-vitro 3D human adipocyte/pre-adipocyte spheroid model, we investigated whether adipocytes and their precursors (pre-adipocytes) secrete factors that affect human dermal fibroblast behavior. We found that both adipocyte and pre-adipocyte conditioned medium induced the migration of fibroblasts, but only adipocyte conditioned medium induced fibroblast differentiation into a highly contractile, collagen producing myofibroblast phenotype. Furthermore, adipocyte mediated myofibroblast induction occurred through a TGF-β independent mechanism. Our findings contribute to a better understanding on the involvement of adipose tissue in wound healing, and may help to uncover and develop fat-related wound healing treatments.
Extreme Hydro-Meteorological Events Influence to Water Quality of Small Rivers in Urban Area: A Case Study in Northeast Poland
Authors: Puczko Katarzyna , Jekatierynczuk-Rudczyk Elżbieta
Published: June 2020

This paper presents an impact of hydro-meteorological extreme events and urban catchment to water quality in small rivers in Białystok (Poland). The results from a five-year study have taken into account droughts, continuous precipitation, and storm precipitation causing flash floods. Extreme hydro-meteorological events has a different impact on the physical and chemical parameters of water. It was found that the largest change in water quality occurs on the 2nd day after the rainfall and changed concentration of some chemical parameters persists for a long time. The majority but, what’s important, not all of them are diluted after floods and concentrated after droughts. Flash flooding results in a large increase concentrations of DOC and selected forms of phosphorus. Higher values of EC, Eh, Mg2+, HCO3-, Cl-, SiO32-, NO3-N, TN were observed during drought compared to the average values from 2014–2018. A high degree of naturalness of the river valley and increased water retention results in a decreased concentration of NH4+-N, DOC and phosphorus forms. The buffer zone plays an important role in limiting the inflow of pollutants and nutrients from the catchment area. That is why it is worth undertaking restoration of river valleys in urban areas.
Role of PKC in the Regulation of the Human Kidney Chloride Channel ClC-Ka
Authors: Gerbino Andrea , De Zio Roberta , Russo Daniela , Milella Luigi , Milano Serena , Procino Giuseppe , Pusch Michael , Svelto Maria , Carmosino Monica
Published: June 2020

The physiological role of the renal ClC-Ka/ClC-K1 channels is to confer a high Cl- permeability to the thin Ascending Limb of Henle (tAL), which in turn is essential for establishing the high osmolarity of the renal medulla that drives water reabsorption from collecting ducts. Here, we investigated by whole-cell patch-clamp measurements on HEK293 cells co-expressing ClC-Ka (tagged with GFP) and the accessory subunit barttin (tagged with m-Cherry) the effect of a natural diuretic extract from roots of Dandelion (DRE), and other compounds activating PKC, such as ATP, on ClC-Ka activity and its membrane localization. Treatment with 400 µg/ml DRE significantly inhibited Cl- currents time-dependently within several minutes. Of note, the same effect on Cl- currents was obtained upon treatment with 100 µM ATP. Pretreatment of cells with either the intracellular Ca2+ chelator BAPTA-AM (30 μM) or the PKC inhibitor Calphostin C (100 nM) reduced the inhibitory effect of DRE. Conversely, 1 µM of phorbol meristate acetate (PMA), a specific PKC activator, mimicked the inhibitory effect of DRE on ClC-Ka. Finally, we found that pretreatment with 30 µM Heclin, an E3 ubiquitin ligase inhibitor, did not revert DRE-induced Cl- current inhibition. In agreement with this, live-cell confocal analysis showed that DRE treatment did not induce ClC-Ka internalization. In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that the activity of ClC-Ka in renal cells could be significantly inhibited by the activation of PKC elicited by classical maneuvers, such as activation of purinergic receptors, or by exposure to herbal extracts that activates a PKC-dependent pathway. Overall, we provide both new information regarding the regulation of ClC-Ka and a proof-of-concept study for the use of DRE as new diuretic.
Geophysical precursors of the July-August 2019 paroxysmal eruptive phase and their implications for Stromboli volcano (Italy) monitoring
Authors: Giudicepietro Flora , López Carmen , Macedonio Giovanni , Alparone Salvatore , Bianco Francesca , Calvari Sonia , De Cesare Walter , Delle Donne Dario , Di Lieto Bellina , Esposito Antonietta M. , Orazi Massimo , Peluso Rosario , Privitera Eugenio , Romano Pierdomenico , Scarpato Giovanni , Tramelli Anna
Published: June 2020

Two paroxysmal explosions occurred at Stromboli volcano in the Summer 2019, the first of which, on July 3, caused one fatality and some injuries. Within the 56 days between the two paroxysmal explosions, effusive activity from vents located in the summit area of the volcano occurred. No significant changes in routinely monitored parameters were detected before the paroxysmal explosions. However, we have calculated the polarization and the fractal dimension time series of the seismic signals from November 15, 2018 to September 15, 2019 and we have recognized variations that preceded the paroxysmal activity. In addition, we have defined a new parameter, based on RSAM estimation, related to the Very Long Period events, called VLP size, by means of which we have noticed significant variations through the whole month preceding the paroxysm of July 3. In the short term, we have analyzed the signals of a borehole strainmeter installed on the island, obtaining automatic triggers 10 minutes and 7.5 minutes before the July 3 and the August 28 paroxysms, respectively. The results of this study highlight mid-term seismic precursors of paroxysmal activity and provide valuable evidence for the development of an early warning system for paroxysmal explosions based on strainmeter measurements.
Eco-friendly magnetic activated carbon nano-hybrid for facile oil spills separation
Authors: Shokry Hassan , Elkady Marwa , Salama Eslam
Published: June 2020

This work focuses mainly on environmental concern and protection through providing beneficial use of waste biomass from water hyacinth to produce economical nano-magnetic adsorbent material-efficient for facile oil spill separation via an external magnetic field. The water hyacinth roots showed higher oil spills adsorption affinity of 2.2 g/g compared with 1.2 g/g for shoots. Nano-activated carbon was successfully extracted from the roots of water hyacinth after alkaline activation and followed by zinc chloride treatment before its carbonization. Nano-magnetite was induced into the activated carbonized nanomaterials to synthesized nano-magnetic activated carbon hybrid material (NMAC). X-ray diffraction elucidated the crystalline nature of both extracted activated carbon from water hyacinth and its magnetic hybrid material. Scanning electron microscopic micrographs implied the nano-size of both prepared activated carbon and the magnetite hybrid materials. The magnetic properties of the fabricated nano-magnetic activated carbon were evaluated using the vibrating sample magnetometer. The magnetic nano-hybrid material recorded a maximum oil adsorption affinity of 30.2 g oil/g. The optimum oil spill of 80% was established after 60 min in the presence of 1 g/L of magnetic nano-hybrid. The magnetic nano-hybrid material that absorbs oil spills was separated from the treatment media easily using an external magnetic field.
Hypolithic communities shape soils and organic matter reservoirs in the ice-free landscapes of East Antarctica
Authors: Mergelov Nikita , Dolgikh Andrey , Shorkunov Ilya , Zazovskaya Elya , Soina Vera , Yakushev Andrey , Fedorov-Davydov Dmitry , Pryakhin Sergey , Dobryansky Alexander
Published: June 2020

The soils of East Antarctica have no rhizosphere with the bulk of organo-mineral interactions confined to the thin microbial and cryptogamic crusts that occur in open or cryptic niches and are collectively known as biological soil crust (BSC). Here we demonstrate that cryptic hypolithic varieties of BSC in the Larsemann Hills of East Antarctica contribute to the buildup of soil organic matter and produce several types of continuous organogenous horizons within the topsoil with documented clusters of at least 100 m2. Such hypolithic horizons accumulate 0.06–4.69% of organic carbon (TOC) with isotopic signatures (δ13Corg) within the range of −30.2 – −24.0‰, and contain from 0 to 0.38% total nitrogen (TN). The properties of hypolithic organic matter alternate between cyanobacteria- and moss-dominated horizons, which are linked to the meso- and microtopography patterns and moisture gradients. The major part of TOC that is stored in hypolithic horizons has modern or centenary 14C age, while the minor part is stabilized on a millennial timescale through shallow burial and association with minerals. Our findings suggest that hypolithic communities create a “gateway” for organic carbon to enter depauperate soils of the Larsemann Hills and contribute to the carbon reservoir of the topsoil at a landscape level.
Author Correction: Zearalenone altered the cytoskeletal structure via ER stress– autophagy– oxidative stress pathway in mouse TM4 Sertoli cells
Authors: Zheng Wanglong , Wang Bingjie , Si Mengxue , Zou Hui , Song Ruilong , Gu Jianhong , Yuan Yan , Liu Xuezhong , Zhu Guoqiang , Bai Jianfa , Bian Jianchun , Liu ZongPing
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Arginyltransferase knockdown attenuates cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis through TAK1-JNK1/2 pathway
Authors: Singh Kanika , Gupta Ankit , Sarkar Ashish , Gupta Ishita , Rana Santanu , Sarkar Sagartirtha , Khan Sameena
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Different exercise training modalities produce similar endothelial function improvements in individuals with prehypertension or hypertension: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Pedralli Marinei L. , Marschner Rafael A. , Kollet Daniel P. , Neto Salvador G. , Eibel Bruna , Tanaka Hirofumi , Lehnen Alexandre M.
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Energy-efficient separation alternatives: metal–organic frameworks and membranes for hydrocarbon separation
Authors: Yang Lifeng , Qian Siheng , Wang Xiaobing , Cui Xili , Chen Banglin , Xing Huabin
Published: June 2020

The diversity of metal–organic frameworks enables the design of highly efficient adsorbents and membranes towards hydrocarbon separations for energy consumption mitigation.
Multiplex enumeration ofEscherichia coliandSalmonella enteritidisin a passive capillary microfluidic chip
Authors: Dogan Üzeyir , Kasap Esin Nagihan , Sucularlı Ferah , Yildirim Ender , Tamer Ugur , Cetin Demet , Suludere Zekiye , Boyaci Ismail Hakkı , Ertas Nusret
Published: June 2020

The concept of a capillary driven microfluidic chip to carry out the immunoassay for fluorescence detection of two target bacteria, namelyEscherichia coli(E. coli) andSalmonella enteritidis(S. enteritidis) in less than 60 min.
Concerted proton–electron transfer reactions of manganese–hydroxo and manganese–oxo complexes
Authors: Mayfield Jaycee R. , Grotemeyer Elizabeth N. , Jackson Timothy A.
Published: June 2020

Studies of MnIII–hydroxo and MnIV–oxo complexes that feature systematically perturbed ligand environments permit elucidation of structure–activity relationships that enhance our understanding of CPET processes in biological and synthetic systems.
Mitochondrion-targeting chemiluminescent ternary supramolecular assembly forin situphotodynamic therapy
Authors: Chen Lei , Chen Yong , Zhou Weilei , Li Jingjing , Zhang Yi , Liu Yu
Published: June 2020

A new ternary supramolecular system can locate at mitochondria and produce chemiluminescence forin situphotodynamic therapy.
Selective oxygenation of unactivated C–H bonds by dioxygenviathe autocatalytic formation of oxoiron(v) species
Authors: Chandra Bittu , De Puja , Sen Gupta Sayam
Published: June 2020

Iron complex catalyzed selective oxygenation of unactivated C–H bonds for a series of substrates by dioxygenviathe autocatalytic formation of oxoiron(v) species is reported.
Exploration of chiral diastereomeric spiroketal (SPIROL)-based phosphinite ligands in asymmetric hydrogenation of heterocycles
Authors: Sun Siyuan , Nagorny Pavel
Published: June 2020

New and readily available chiral SPIROL-based diphosphinite ligands (SPIRAPO) have been prepared and employed for iridium catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenations of quinolines, quinoxalines and 2H-1,4-bezoxazin-2-ones.
In vivo mRNA imaging based on tripartite DNA probe mediated catalyzed hairpin assembly
Authors: Wu Han , Zhou Wen-Jing , Liu Lan , Fan Ze , Tang Hao , Yu Ru-Qin , Jiang Jian-Hui
Published: June 2020

Herein, we develop a novel tripartite DNA probe to transport phosphorothioated substrate hairpins and an aptamer for the intramolecular CHA circuit, which achieves detection of a low amount of specific mRNA in living cells and mice.
Intermediate snapshot on the insertion reaction of isocyanates into the Zn–Cp* bond of dizincocene Cp*2Zn2
Authors: Li Bin , Wölper Christoph , Huse Kevin , Schulz Stephan
Published: June 2020

Heteroleptic Zn(i) complexes Cp*Zn–Zn(N(R)C(Cp*)O) with η4-coordinated tethered Cp* ligand represent snapshots of isocyanate insertion reactions into Zn–Cp* bonds. Their bonding nature was analysed by single crystal X-ray diffraction and computational calculations.
An unsymmetrical binuclear iminopyridine-iron complex and its catalytic isoprene polymerization
Authors: Wang Liang , Wang Xiaowu , Hou Hongbin , Zhu Guangqian , Han Zhenyu , Yang Weiying , Chen Xiao , Wang Qinggang
Published: June 2020

A series of chloride-bridged unsymmetrical Fe(ii)-HS/Fe(ii)-LS binuclear complexes has been developed, which can efficiently catalyze isoprene polymerization with 0.00025 mol% loading, delivering ultra-high molecular weight polymers.
Prismatic Ta3N5-composed spheres produced by self-sacrificial template-like conversion of Ta particles via Na2CO3 flux
Authors: Suzuki Sayaka , Ando Ryota , Matsui Yusaku , Isechi Katsunori , Yubuta Kunio , Teshima Katsuya
Published: June 2020

Ta3N5 crystals were grown from Na2CO3 flux using spherical Ta powders.
Initial growth of pentacene on a Si(111)--In surface
Authors: Suzuki Takayuki , Yagyu Kazuma , Tochihara Hiroshi
Published: June 2020

Pentacene crystals with a herring-bone arrangement are grown with the longer molecular axis being directed parallel to the surface.
Multilevel self-organization on anodized aluminium: discovering hierarchical honeycomb structures from nanometre to sub-millimetre scale
Authors: Pashchanka Mikhail
Published: June 2020

Novel hierarchical honeycomb-like structures on anodized aluminium with unprecedented scalability of pores from nanometre to sub-millimetre range open up new frontiers of multiscale spatial self-organization in electrochemistry.
On the structural stability and optical properties of germanium-based schwarzites: a density functional theory investigation
Authors: Tromer Raphael M. , Felix Levi C. , Woellner Cristiano F. , Galvao Douglas S.
Published: June 2020

Since graphene was synthesized the interest in building new 2D and 3D structures based on carbon allotropes has been growing every day.
Exploring the role of vacancy defects in the optical properties of LiMgPO4
Authors: Modak Pampa , Modak Brindaban
Published: June 2020

A systematic electronic structure calculation employing hybrid density functional theory has been carried out to explore the role of all possible vacancy defects in neutral and charged states in the optical properties of LiMgPO4.
Electron spin relaxation properties of atomic hydrogen encapsulated in octavinyl POSS cages
Authors: Mitrikas George , Menenakou Stavroula
Published: June 2020

The electron spin coherence of atomic hydrogen trapped in Vi8Si8O12cages exhibits a modest temperature dependence compared to methyl-containing cages due to the inhibited rotation about the carbon–carbon double bond.
Evolution of structural and magnetic properties of FePtCu alloy films on annealing of FePt/Cu multilayers
Authors: Basha M. A. , Bhatt Harsh , Kumar Yogesh , Prajapat C. L. , Gupta M. , Karki V. , Ghosh S. K. , Basu S. , Singh Surendra
Published: June 2020

Formation of FePtCu ternary alloys on annealing of FePt/Cu multilayers at 600 °C for 6.5 h.
The effects of the position of the ether oxygen atom in pyrrolidinium-based room temperature ionic liquids on their physicochemical properties
Authors: Yoshii Kazuki , Uto Takuya , Tachikawa Naoki , Katayama Yasushi
Published: June 2020

A joint computational and experimental approach uncovered that the position effect of the ether oxygen atom in pyrrolidinium-based room temperature ionic liquids on the physicochemical properties.
Correction: Materials space of solid-state electrolytes: unraveling chemical composition–structure–ionic conductivity relationships in garnet-type metal oxides using cheminformatics virtual screening approaches
Authors: Kireeva Natalia , Pervov Vladislav S.
Published: June 2020

Correction for ‘Materials space of solid-state electrolytes: unraveling chemical composition–structure–ionic conductivity relationships in garnet-type metal oxides using cheminformatics virtual screening approaches’ by Natalia Kireeva et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2017, 19, 20904–20918, DOI: 10.1039/c7cp00518k.
The role of photocatalysts in radical chains in homolytic aromatic substitution, radical addition to olefins, and nucleophilic radical substitution mechanisms
Authors: Yerien Damian E. , Barata-Vallejo Sebastián , Mora Flores Erwin W. , Postigo Al
Published: June 2020

Initiation, propagation and chain termination steps in oxidative and reductive quenching cycles for the photoinitiated perfluoroalkylation reaction of an olefin.
Enhanced catalyst selectivity in the direct synthesis of H2O2 through Pt incorporation into TiO2 supported AuPd catalysts
Authors: Gong Xiaoxiao , Lewis Richard J. , Zhou Song , Morgan David J. , Davies Thomas E. , Liu Xi , Kiely Christopher J. , Zong Baoning , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: June 2020

The introduction of low levels of Pt dopant into AuPd nanoparticles supported on TiO2 significantly enhances their catalytic performance for the direct synthesis of H2O2.
Single crystal growth of water-soluble metal complexes with the help of the nano-crystallization method
Authors: Alvarez Ricardo , Nievergelt Philipp P. , Slyshkina Ekaterina , Müller Peter , Alberto Roger , Spingler Bernhard
Published: June 2020

Let pipetting robots set up nano crystallization trials of water-soluble metal complexes in order to obtain single crystals!
Two ways of spin crossover in an iron(ii) coordination polymer associated with conformational changes of a bridging ligand
Authors: Książek Maria , Weselski Marek , Dreczko Agnieszka , Maliuzhenko Vladyslav , Kaźmierczak Marcin , Tołoczko Aleksandra , Kusz Joachim , Bronisz Robert
Published: June 2020

Structural phase transition in [Fe(bbtre)3](ClO4)2·2CH3CN (bbtre = 1,4-di(1-ethyl-1,2,3-triazol-5-yl)butane) plays the role of a switch, allowing spin crossover to be carried out in two ways.
Establishing reactivity descriptors for platinum group metal (PGM)-free Fe–N–C catalysts for PEM fuel cells
Authors: Primbs Mathias , Sun Yanyan , Roy Aaron , Malko Daniel , Mehmood Asad , Sougrati Moulay-Tahar , Blanchard Pierre-Yves , Granozzi Gaetano , Kosmala Tomasz , Daniel Giorgia , Atanassov Plamen , Sharman Jonathan , Durante Christian , Kucernak Anthony , Jones Deborah , Jaouen Frédéric , Strasser Peter
Published: June 2020

Establishing new reactivity map descriptor of TOF–SD for PGM-free Fe–N–C catalysts ORR activity.
Adsorption and advanced oxidation of diverse pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) from water using highly efficient rGO–nZVI nanohybrids
Authors: Masud Arvid , Chavez Soria Nita G. , Aga Diana S. , Aich Nirupam
Published: June 2020

Reduced graphene oxide-nanoscale zero valent iron (rGO–nZVI) nanohybrid, with tunable adsorption sites of rGO and unique catalytic redox activity of nZVI, perform enhanced removal of diverse PPCPs from water.
Ameliorative effects and molecular mechanisms of vine tea on western diet-induced NAFLD
Authors: Xie Kun , He Xi , Chen Keyu , Sakao Kozue , Hou De-Xing
Published: June 2020

VTP might prevent WD-induced NAFLD by balancing fatty acid oxidation and lipogenesis, hepatic oxidative stress, and the gut microbiome.
Efficient production of adipic acid from 2-methoxycyclohexanone by aerobic oxidation with a phosphotungstic acid catalyst
Authors: Hatakeyama Kosuke , Nakagawa Yoshinao , Tamura Masazumi , Tomishige Keiichi
Published: June 2020

A stable H3PW12O40 catalyst can selectively convert 2-methoxycyclohexanone to adipic acid and methanol with O2 as an oxidant in water.
Sonochemical production of nanoscaled crystalline cellulose using organic acids
Authors: Robles Eduardo , Izaguirre Nagore , Dogaru Bianca-Ioana , Popescu Carmen-Mihaela , Barandiaran Irati , Labidi Jalel
Published: June 2020

The present work deals with the production of cellulose nanoparticles through sonochemistry in various organic acidic media.
Upcycling of biowaste carbon and nutrients in line with consumer confidence: the “full gas” route to single cell protein
Authors: Matassa Silvio , Papirio Stefano , Pikaar Ilje , Hülsen Tim , Leijenhorst Evert , Esposito Giovanni , Pirozzi Francesco , Verstraete Willy
Published: June 2020

Coupling biowaste gas recovery with single cell protein production could foster future food safety and sustainability on a global scale.
Biocatalytic asymmetric ring-opening of dihydroisoxazoles: a cyanide-free route to complementary enantiomers of β-hydroxy nitriles from olefins
Authors: Zheng Daijun , Asano Yasuhisa
Published: June 2020

From alkenes and nitromethane, a cyanide-free pathway to synthesize chiral β-hydroxy nitriles via the enantioselective ring-opening of 5-sub-4,5-dihydroisoxazoles catalyzed by aldoxime dehydratases has been developed.