bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training of Teachers of Secondary School Mathematics
Authors: Fehr Howard F.
Published: January 2021

The reports, research, and proposed curricula for the training of teachers of mathematics have been numerous within the last thirty years. Outstanding have been those by Archibald,1 Sueltz,2 and Turner,3 not only for the review of the training existing at the time of their report, but also for the proposed program they offer for future training.
The Teaching and Learning Processes in Mathematics
Authors: Betz William
Published: January 2021

A study of the reform movement in mathematics shows that during the first thirty years of its existence—roughly from 1893 to 1923—the reconstruction of mathematics was controlled mainly by mathematical leaders. Since then, the “educators” and administrators have increasingly dominated the scene.
Is Mathematics Out of This World?
Authors: Recht Albert W.
Published: January 2021

When we were teaching air crew mathematics during the war, I was interested in the response of students to this problem: “The temperature is now 7° above zero; yesterday at this time the temperature was 5° below zero. How many degrees warmer is it today than it was yesterday?” Invariably students would give the correct answer, 12°. Yet when you asked them to subtract —5 from +7 there was a great variety of answers, perhaps because they were trying to recall a rule about changing the sign (which sign?) and adding.
A Mathematics Course for any Student
Authors: Schmid John
Published: January 2021

The Commission on Post-War Plans in its first, report proposed three series of mathematics courses. The sequential courses would consist of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
The Art of Teaching: Notes on Impossible Problems in Elementary Mathematics
Authors: George O. A.
Published: January 2021

I was interested in the article “Impossible and Unsolved Problems in Elementary Mathematics,” by Roy Dubisch, in the October, 1948, issue of THe Mathematics Teacher. I quite agree with the author in admitting the instructional value of such problems.
Group Affiliation With the National Council
Authors: Charlesworth H. W.
Published: January 2021

This is the third in this series of articles. I shall assume that you have read the articles on affiliation in the October and November issues. As the Chairman of Affiliated Groups, appointed by the Board of Directors on March 30 of this year, I have been requested to present recommendations on reorganization of affiliation to the Board at the Chicago meeting next April. It is our desire that these recommendations come from the groups themselves. We hope to accomplish this through the means of the questionnaire that I sent out to affiliated groups in September and through the Delegate Assembly. Remember, if affiliation of your group is completed by March 1, 1950, you are entitled to send one delegate to the Delegate Assembly in Chicago next April.
Teacher Preparation for a New Era in Mathematics
Authors: Snader Daniel W.
Published: January 2021

The recent World War has ushered in what is destined to he a new era in education. The war has brought to a sharp focus the importance of mathematics as an integral part of the education of all youth. Our nation can ill afford to take the chance of reverting to its pre-war indifference to mathematics as a school subject. It is a dangerous matter to live in a scientific and technological age with-out taking the responsibility of preparing our youth for the realities which are in store for them. Mathematics is an integral part of the culture. Its importance in winning the war can not be denied. Its role in the future developments of our country, in winning and keeping the peace, is equally important.
Contests and Scholarships
Authors: Mayor J. R.
Published: January 2021

This month's report on contests includes a test sponsored for its own seniors by the high school's department of mathematics; a test for high school seniors from a number of schools, sponsored by a college; and a test for college freshmen sponsored by the college's honorary mathematics fraternity. These brief accounts describe one means that these schools have found to add to interest in the study of mathematics and to provide deserved recognition for achievement in this area. These three contests are fairly representative of contests in mathematics held throughout the country.
Using a “Calculator” to Develop Basic Understandings and Meanings in Arithmetic
Authors: Carr Alice Rose
Published: January 2021

In the past few years, many teachers have turned more and more to the use of concrete materials to develop with children an understanding of the number system and the processes involving number relationships. Too often the teacher has put the emphasis upon abstract manipulation of number symbols rather than upon the understanding of basic concepts which should precede the use of symbols. It is important that the child understand “why” he does “what” he does.
An Engineer Looks at Mathematics Teaching
Authors: Lee Everett S.
Published: January 2021

Your good president has asked me to speak to you on the subject “An Engineer Looks at Mathematics Teaching.” I was given this honor as I had been privileged to be with Professor Rankin at his Institute at Duke University for Teachers of Mathematics, where we have had such good times together. Through the contributions of Professor Rankin and his associates and through the contributions of your own National Council the work being done in mathematics throughout our land is enriched and a true concept of the proper place of mathematics in our educational program is obtained by all who have a responsibility in this field—teacher, principal, professor, and dean, together with all those who need and use mathematics in their daily living and work. This is everybody.
Mathematical Miscellanea
Authors: Jones Phillip S.
Published: January 2021

The department Miscellanea—Mathematical, Historical, Pedagogical reappears under a revised heading for a year's trial run as a clearing house for notes that are substantially mathematical in nature. Send along your trick problems, neat devices, pet mathematical peeves for all levels from kindergarten through junior college.
Mathematics Teachers Train Thrifty Citizens
Authors: Morse Jarvis M.
Published: January 2021

I am not a professional mathematician. You might consider me a practicing mathematician. Ever so many nights a week during the school year young Johnny, who is reviewing basic operations for Junior High, says, “Hey, Dad, are these things right?”
On Understanding Mathematical Methods
Authors: Engen H. Van
Published: January 2021

A recent article1 in The Mathematics Teacher has focused the attention of its readers on a misconception of mathematical methods which can have serious consequences, particularly if it becomes too firmly established in the mathematics classes of the secondary schools. These misconceptions tend to crop out both in lay circles and in some professional circles. They range all the way from conceiving of mathematics as being interested only in number—hence every mathematician is an arithmetician—to more subtle misconceptions such as a conception of proof which is more rigid than can be justified by modern mathematical methods. This misconception of mathematical proof arises from a frame of mind which produces such concepts as “abolute truth” or the abolute space coordinates of Newtonian origin. Proof as used in the mathematics of the 20th Century has no such connotations.
Topics of Interest to Mathematics Teachers: Mathematics and Art
Authors: Schaaf William L.
Published: January 2021

Claude Bragdon once observed that to some people, any juxtaposition of the idea of mathematics and the idea of art would seem far fetched. Devotees of modern non-objective painting apparently feel the same way. To he sure, artistic creations do not invariably stem from mathematical concepts, nor does the execution of works of art depend solely upon mathematical considerations. But basically, pure mathematics and creative art share certain common characteristics: both admit of unlimited use of the imagination; both are creations for the sake of creation; both are pure invention; both reveal abstract orderliness imposed by the human mind. And when the artist portrays reality, he takes into account the mathematical aspects of real objects, be they the works of man, or found in Nature.
Applications: Gears, gear teeth, and mathematics
Authors: Peck Lyman C.
Published: January 2021

Gears of clocks, watches, bicycles, and automobiles are constantly behind the scenes in our environment. Many youngsters are fascinated by the insides of a timepiece or of the differential of a car. To a certain extent, then, gears and gear wheels have universal appeal.
Devices for the Mathematics Classroom: A simple multiple purpose dynamic device
Authors: Ek Frances
Published: January 2021

This device is unique because of its simplicity and its possibilities. It consists of three narrow sticks of wood; two of these arc 8” long, and the other is 6” long.
Mathematics and the development of good citizens
Authors: Meehan Catherine
Published: January 2021

On page 23 of the Rotarian for August, 1953, there is an article, “Bold New Program in Our Schools,” describing a scheme for fostering good citizenship among young Americans. It is so newsworthy that Reader's Digest used it in its August, 1953, issue. Those who have found the time to read the article know that it claims “to teach youngsters to become active, informed, alert citizens in the same way they are taught to be good chemists—by laboratory practice.” Again, the social studies group has succeeded in making the public conscious of its efforts to teach citizenship!
Which way mathematics?: Mathematics for our time
Authors: Burington R. S.
Published: January 2021

Today we are living in an age when a strong mat hemal ics background is a necessity for many people. We are living in a rapidly changing age. In order to replenish and to provide for the present and future demands of our civilization, we must make provision for the strengthening and training in the mathematical sciences of many of our younger generation.
Which way mathematics?: Which way precollege mathematics?
Authors: May Kenneth O.
Published: January 2021

What type of drill should he used in mathematics classes? Can the nature of proof be taught in elementary algebra? What is the function of the problem in mathematics?
A comparative study of the effectiveness of lessons on the slide rule presented via television and in person
Authors: Anderson George R. , Meer Abram W. Vander
Published: January 2021

Much has been said and written concerning the educational importance of television. Perhaps greater interest has been shown in the general cultural impact of this new communications medium, but its potentialities for direct instruction have not been ignored. Public school systems, universities, and the armed services all have made some efforts in the direction of formalized instruction via television. In general, these efforts appear to have met with some success.
Points and Viewpoints: Which way mathematics?
Authors: Engen H. Van
Published: January 2021

A column of unofficial comment.
Use of Text Books in the Examination in Trigonometry
Authors: Van Ingen B. C.
Published: January 2021

In presenting this subject, I have attempted to get the opinion of representatives of three classes of people vitally interested in this change in the form of examination in trigonometry, viz., the instructor of trigonometry in the high school, the professors in the departments of mathematics in the colleges who build upon the preparation made by the high school pupil in this subject, and third the engineers who have had these courses in high school and college and have supplemented them by years of practical experience in putting into use these fundamental principles both personally and with assistants of less experience and of fresh book knowledge.
Discussion of Mr. Van Tuyl’s Paper
Authors: Schlauch W. S.
Published: January 2021

Mr. President: I have listened with a great deal of interest to the paper just read, because for the past year and more I have been investigating the mathematical calculations involved in business. Visits to such institutions as the National City Bank, The Columbia Knickerbocker Trust Co., The Seamen’s Bank for Savings, Spencer Trask and Company, fire and life insurance companies, exporting houses and department stores have revealed some interesting facts.
Mathematics Relays for High Schools
Authors: Koch Ernest H. , McCormick Thomas H.
Published: January 2021

One of the most hopeful signs for the advancement of secondary school education is reflected in the increased attention which is being given to the content and instruction of the first year in the high schools. To those who are concerned with this work it is always a source of interest and profit to note and measure the development of pupils during this formative period.
Mathematics and Psychology
Authors: Grove C. C.
Published: January 2021

In mental vision, upon the wall of a great hall, I see a clock with weights and pendulum exposed. An electric light is dependent before it, causing dark clear shadows on the wall—of the weights like inverted pine-cones, of the pendulum like a wicked one fleeing with none pursuing, faster and still faster, ever fainter, to the other end of the hall.
Pythagoras, PVC Pipes, and Pianos
Authors: Divis Danielle R. , Johnson Tyler
Published: January 2021

This practitioner article describes a lesson carried out in a high school classroom at the conclusion of a unit on exponential growth. Two teachers use a series of music-related activities to engage students in using and connecting multiple representations of exponential growth while exploring musical frequencies on a piano.
Problems to Ponder
Authors: Katt Susie , Korponic Megan
Published: January 2021

Problems to Ponder provides 28 varying, classroom-ready mathematics problems that collectively span PK–12, arranged in the order of the grade level. Individuals are encouraged to submit a problem or a collection of problems directly to mtlt@nctm.org. If published, the authors of problems will be acknowledged.
Hassle Exposure and Reactivity Links with Obesogenic Health Behaviors
Authors: Eck Kaitlyn M. , Quick Virginia , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol
Published: January 2021

Objectives: In this study, we explored associations between daily "hassles" (irritating inconveniences) and obesogenic health behaviors of college students. Methods: Students (N = 406, 62% female) completed a survey including the 5-point Brief College Student Hassle Scale
which quantifies hassles experienced in the last month in 9 domains (eg, preparing meals, exercising, adequate sleep) and hassle reactivity (ie, upset from hassles), with scores categorized as low (< 2.5), moderate (≥ 2.5 to ≤ 3.5), or high (> 3.5). Results: Females had
significantly (p < .05) greater hassles in all domains than males, except for work, personal relationships, and living environment. ANOVA revealed both sexes in the high hassle exposure groups tended to have poorer eating behaviors than the low hassle exposure group. Additionally, high
hassle exposure females and males slept less, and had poorer sleep quality, satisfaction with life, and physical and mental health than lower hassle exposure groups. Multiple linear regression analyses examining associations of hassle exposures and hassle reactivity with each health behavior,
adjusted for sex and body mass index, revealed all models were statistically significant, except fruit and vegetable intake. Conclusions: Lower hassle during college is associated with healthier weight-related behaviors and better health status. Future nutrition interventions targeting
college students may be strengthened by incorporating strategies for effectively coping with daily hassles.
Resultados del primer Sondeo de Rata de Agua, Arvicola sapidus Miller 1908, en España
Authors: Román Jacinto
Published: January 2021

The results of the first spanish southern water vole (Arvicola sapidus) survey are presented in this paper. The survey was carried out between March 19, 2011 and June 10, 2012 and 310 volunteers participated in it, of which almost half did so as companions. A total of 1,000 UTM grids of 10x10 km were selected a priori, with a uniform distribution throughout peninsular Spain. In each grid the observer chose three sampling points, with the following conditions: presence of favorable habitat, easy access and minimum distance between sampling points of 2,500 m. More than half of the grids were sampled by a single observer and 97% of the positive points were before 25 minutes of sampling. Data was obtained from 995 grids of the 1,000 initially planned. The presence of southern water vole was detected in 542 (54.5%) of grids: 218 with one positive point (40.2% of the positive ones), 174 with two (32.1%) and 150 with three (27.7%). The total number of points sampled was 2,914, of which 1,016 (34.9%) were positive.
Applications of two-dimensional materials in bio-sensors
Authors: Luo Shi , Wei Da-Peng , Wei Da-Cheng ,   State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China,   Laboratory of Molecular Materials and Devices, Department of Materials Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China,   Chongqing Key Laboratory of Multi-Scale Manufacturing Technology, Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
Published: January 2021

Since the discovery of graphene, a large number of two-dimensional (2D) materials have been found and studied. The charge carriers of 2D materials are restrained in a 1 nm physical space, which results in high sensitivity of charge carriers to chemical or electrical doping. It brings a technical innovation into a biosensing field. No matter what sensing mechanism the biosensor process is based on, it includes the process of detecting object recognition and signal transformation. The target recognition is normally realized by nano-bioprobes at the sensing interfaces of the devices. After the recognition, 2D materials at the biosensing interface can realize signal output. Constructing bioprobes and 2D materials at an atomic level at the biosensing interface can modulate the physical and chemical activity precisely in the process of sensing, which improves the sensing performances of devices. Here, we review the recent progress of constructing the 2D biosensing interfaces. Especially, we discuss various biosensing mechanisms and different nano-bioprobes. We also suggest the further research direction of this field.
Ipsilateral and Contralateral Torque Responses to Bilateral and Unilateral Maximal, Fatiguing, Isokinetic Leg Extensions
Authors: Neltner Tyler J. , Anders John Paul V. , Keller Joshua L. , Smith Robert W. , Housh Terry J. , Schmidt Richard J. , Johnson Glen O.
Published: January 2021

Background: Few studies have compared performance fatigability (PF) for bilateral versus unilateral isokinetic tasks. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine: Mode-specific testing responses to isokinetic fatigue, differences in PF between bilateral and unilateral leg extensions, and the effects of fatiguing, unilateral, dynamic leg extensions on contralateral isokinetic peak torque (PT) and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Methods: Eight men (mean ± SD: age= 22.5 ± 2.5 yr.) completed pre- and post-testing for PT and MVIC following 50 bilateral, unilateral right or left leg maximal, isokinetic leg extensions at 180°·s-1, on three separate days. Fatigue-induced decreases in PT and MVIC were used to quantify PF. The data were analyzed with a 4-way repeated measures ANOVA, follow up, and post-hoc analyses. Results: The results indicated that there were no differences (p > 0.05) in PF for the bilateral versus unilateral fatiguing tasks, decreases in PT (p < 0.001 - 0.016; d = 0.54 - 2.58) and MVIC (p < 0.001 - 0.006; η2p = 0.682 - 0.962) for the exercised legs during unilateral fatigue, and a contralateral increase (p = 0.007) in PT following the right leg fatiguing task. Conclusion: The results indicated that PT was more sensitive to fatiguing isokinetic tasks than was MVIC. In addition, there was a facilitation of PT in the contralateral leg following unilateral right leg fatigue. The differences in PT and MVIC testing may be attributable to the timing and/or relative contributions of peripheral and central fatigue.
A Comparison of the Effects of a Six-Week Traditional Squat and Suspended Load Squat Program in Collegiate Baseball Players on Measures of Athletic Performance
Authors: Thielen Samuel P. , Christensen Bryan K. , Bond Colin W. , Hackney Kyle J. , Moen Jeremiah T.
Published: January 2021

Background: Acute studies suggest that resistance training with an unstable load suspended from the barbell increases core muscle activation with negligible detrimental effects on phasic muscle activation and force production compared to traditional barbell loading, but the effect of a suspended load program on athletic performance is unclear. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of a six-week program where the back-squat was performed with a suspended load (SL) on vertical jump (VJ), change of direction ability (COD), single-leg balance, and one repetition maximum squat load (1RM). Methods: Thirty-two collegiate baseball players (20.4 ± 1.4 y, 86.0 ± 11.0 kg, 1.82 ± .065 m) were assigned to perform the back-squat with SL or traditional loading (CON). Additional exercises were done with traditional loading. Athletes completed VJ, T-tests to measure COD, star excursion balance test (SEBT) to measure single-leg balance, and 1RM PRE and POST program. A MANOVA was used to assess the dependent variables. Significance was set to p < .05. Results: Effect of group × time (p = .152) and group (p = .095) were not significant, indicating CON and SL had similar performance. Effect of time (p < .0001) was significant, suggesting POST performance improved relative to PRE. When groups were pooled, 1RM (p < .0001) and T-test (p = .038) improved, but VJ (p = .255) and SEBT (p = .167) did not improve. Conclusion: Performing squats with SL does not appear to be detrimental to development during a six-week program.
Response of Forty (40) High-Producing Cacao Genotypes to Cacao Swollen Shoot Disease
Authors: Trebissou Caudou I. , N’Guessan Roméo K. , Tahi Mathias G. , Aïdara Sékou , Akaffou Sélastique D. , N’Guetta Simon-Pierre A.
Published: January 2021

Aims: Cocoa swollen shoot is a dreaded viral disease that is prevalent in the producing areas of West Africa. In Côte d'Ivoire, it undermines the sustainability of cocoa farming. Integrated pest management based on the use of disease-resistant or disease-tolerant plant material remains a sustainable solution.

Place and Duration of Study: Integrated Pest Management Unit against Cocoa swollen shoot, Experimental greenhouse of Bouaflé, National Centre for Agronomic Research (CNRA).

Methodology: Forty elite genotypes of cocoa trees selected from different populations in the Reciprocal Recurrent Selection program of Cocoa in Côte d'Ivoire were evaluated against strain D of Cacao Swollen Shoot Virus (CSSV). Five seedlings of each genotype were infected by patch grafting and observed for 5 months.

Study Design: Plants are placed in a greenhouse in a completely random arrangement, with five repetitions.

Results: Three cocoa genotypes (C77, C87 and C96) were free of disease symptoms and eight genotypes (C77, C87, C96, C3, C12, C26, C53 and C98) had the lowest infection scores. The disease significantly affected plant development and growth.

Conclusion: Some genotypes selected within the Reciprocal Recurrent Selection program are promising for breeding against CSSV disease. These eight genotypes will be tested in a field environment to confirm their tolerance.
Trade, ancient Near East
Authors: Monroe Christopher M.
Published: January 2021

Trade encompasses a spectrum of economic activities, including reciprocal gifting, barter, redistribution, buying and selling, capitalistic or profit‐driven trade, mercantilism, and various combinations of these ideal‐types.
Cavalry, Greek
Authors: Bugh Glenn R.
Published: January 2021

For most of the Greek world, cavalry was a late development. It would play an auxiliary role in armies of the Classical period, advantaged by its mobility and elevated fighting platform, but limited in numbers by the high cost of maintaining and replacing a war horse. After being elevated to military prominence by Alexander the Great, cavalry would continue to play an integral role in the armies of the Successors and of the Greek cities until the coming of the Romans.
Perpetua
Authors: Lefkowitz Mary R.
Published: January 2021

Vibia Perpetua was martyred along with her slave Felicitas and other Christians, in the amphitheater at Carthage, on March 7, 203. Like other martyrs Perpetua was willing to cut herself off from her family on behalf of her religious beliefs and faced death with extraordinary courage
Philip, Gospel of
Authors: Marjanen Antti
Published: January 2021

Gospel of Philipis an early Christian, more specifically Valentinian, text, preserved in a single Coptic manuscript included in the Nag Hammadi Library.
Salt
Authors: Clarysse Willy
Published: January 2021

Salt is a regular necessity for both humans and animals. Humans need about 5 g and a cow up to 90 g a day, or about 2 and 30 kg a year, respectively. In fact, most societies use far more than that, certainly in hot climates (Roman soldiers received daily rations of 20 g). Only part of this is acquired from unsalted food. Moreover, before canning and artificial refrigeration, meat, fish, and cheese could only be preserved by salting. As a result, salt production and commerce were important activities from the Neolithic period onwards.
Elephants
Authors: Rance Philip
Published: January 2021

This article summarizes the role of the elephant in the Greco‐Roman world and neighboring cultures, from the early Hellenistic period to Late Antiquity, including zoological knowledge, the deployment of elephants in warfare and their significance in display, royal symbolism and diplomacy.
Letters, Hellenistic royal
Authors: Michels Christoph
Published: January 2021

The Hellenistic royal letters and decrees are important sources for the inner workings and ideologies of the Greco‐Macedonian (and Hellenized indigenous) monarchies. The letters are mainly attested through inscriptions set up by Greek cities and sanctuaries. Therefore they illustrate the delicate relationship between kings and cities.
Iudicium
Authors: Riggsby Andrew M.
Published: January 2021

A
iudicium
was a “trial” whether “private” (roughly civil) or “public” (roughly criminal). Over time the specific procedures in both categories evolved until both came to operate under a single form later in the imperial period.
Sagalassos (Sagalassus)
Authors: Waelkens Marc
Published: January 2021

Sagalassos emerged as a settlement during the late fifth century
bce
and developed as a “city” from ca. 200
bce
onwards. The site prospered mainly during the first to third centuries
ce
and was inhabited until the early thirteenth century.
Phlegraean Fields
Authors: Perrotta Annamaria , Scarpati Claudio
Published: January 2021

The Phlegraean Fields volcanic area has been active in the last 78,000 years. Two large calderas are associated with Plinian‐type activity. Intense uplift of several meters occurred before the last historical eruption (Monte Nuovo, 1538) and in recent times (1970–2 and in 1982–4).
Gallic War(Bellum Gallicum)
Authors: Nice Alexander
Published: January 2021

Caesar'sGallic War(Bellum Gallicum), written between 58 and 50bce,is an autobiographical, third‐person narrative of those campaigns. Seven books recount Caesar's actions from 58 to 52. An additional book by Caesar's legate, Aulus Hirtius (cos. 43), relates events from 51 and 50. While the Gallic War had an ostensibly propagandistic value for Caesar in promoting his image at Rome, it also offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the linguistic, rhetorical, and historical processes of one of Rome's most dynamic politicians and eminent intellectuals.
Daughter
Authors: Hallett Judith P.
Published: January 2021

Literary texts and material objects from classical antiquity indicate that the value accorded to female children and the behavioral possibilities for daughters within and beyond their own family circles varied according to social class, time, and locale.
Nanoparticle dispersion in porous media: Effects of hydrodynamic interactions and dimensionality
Authors: Mangal Deepak , Conrad Jacinta C. , Palmer Jeremy C.
Published: January 2021

We investigate the effect of steric and hydrodynamic interactions (HI) on quiescent diffusion and flow‐driven transport of finite‐sized nanoparticles through periodic 2D (two‐dimensional) and 3D (three‐dimensional) nanopost arrays using Stokesian dynamics simulations. We find that steric and HI hinder particle diffusivity under quiescent conditions and enhance longitudinal dispersion under flow. Moreover, the presence of HI leads to a power‐law increase in the longitudinal dispersion coefficient with Pe due to spatial variations in the fluid velocity. Lastly, our simulations reveal that longitudinal particle dispersion coefficients behave similarly in 2D and 3D when HI are included.
Color‐hierarchies in executive control of monkeys' behavior
Authors: Ghasemian Sadegh , Vardanjani Marzieh M. , Sheibani Vahid , Mansouri Farshad A.
Published: January 2021

Processing advantages for particular colors (color‐hierarchies) influence emotional regulation and cognitive functions in humans and manifest as an advantage of the red color, compared with the green color, in triggering response inhibition but not in response execution. It remains unknown how such color‐hierarchies emerge in human cognition and whether they are the unique properties of human brain with advanced trichromatic vision. Dominant models propose that color‐hierarchies are formed as experience‐dependent learning that associates various colors with different human‐made conventions and concepts (e.g., traffic lights). We hypothesized that if color‐hierarchies modulate cognitive functions in trichromatic nonhuman primates, it would indicate a preserved neurobiological basis for such color‐hierarchies. We trained six macaque monkeys to perform cognitive tasks that required behavioral control based on colored cues. Color‐hierarchies significantly influenced monkeys' behavior and appeared as an advantage of the red color, compared to the green, in triggering response inhibition but not response execution. For all monkeys, the order of color‐hierarchies, in response inhibition and also execution, was similar to that in humans. In addition, the cognitive effects of color‐hierarchies were not limited to the trial in which the colored cues were encountered but also persisted in the following trials in which there was no colored cue on the visual scene. These findings suggest that color‐hierarchies are not resulting from association of colors with human‐made conventions and that simple processing advantage in retina or early visual pathways does not explain the cognitive effects of color‐hierarchies. The discovery of color‐hierarchies in cognitive repertoire of monkeys indicates that although the evolution of humans and monkeys diverged in about 25 million years ago, the color‐hierarchies are evolutionary preserved, with the same order, in trichromatic primates and exert overarching effects on the executive control of behavior.
Defect‐Assisted Loading and Docking Conformations of Pharmaceuticals in Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Fu Yao , Kang Zhengzhong , Cao Weicheng , Yin Jinglin , Tu Yaoquan , Li Jianhua , Guan Hanxi , Wang Yiran , Wang Qi , Kong Xueqian
Published: January 2021

Understanding of drug–carrier interactions is essential for the design and application of metal–organic framework (MOF)‐based drug‐delivery systems, and such drug–carrier interactions can be fundamentally different for MOFs with or without defects. Herein, we reveal that the defects in MOFs play a key role in the loading of many pharmaceuticals with phosphate or phosphonate groups. The host–guest interaction is dominated by the Coulombic attraction between phosphate/phosphonate groups and defect sites, and it strongly enhances the loading capacity. For similar molecules without a phosphate/phosphonate group or for MOFs without defects, the loading capacity is greatly reduced. We employed solid‐state NMR spectroscopy and molecular simulations to elucidate the drug–carrier interaction mechanisms. Through a synergistic combination of experimental and theoretical analyses, the docking conformations of pharmaceuticals at the defects were revealed.
On the Redox Mechanism of Low‐Temperature NH3‐SCR over Cu‐CHA: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study of the Reduction Half Cycle
Authors: Hu Wenshuo , Selleri Tommaso , Gramigni Federica , Fenes Endre , Rout Kumar R. , Liu Shaojun , Nova Isabella , Chen De , Gao Xiang , Tronconi Enrico
Published: January 2021

Cu‐CHA is the state‐of‐the‐art catalyst for the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) of NOx in vehicle applications. Although extensively studied, diverse mechanistic proposals still stand in terms of the nature of active Cu‐ions and reaction pathways in SCR working conditions. Herein we address the redox mechanism underlying Low‐Temperature (LT) SCR on Cu‐CHA by an integration of chemical‐trapping techniques, transient‐response methods, operando UV/Vis‐NIR spectroscopy with modelling tools based on transient kinetic analysis and density functional theory calculations. We show that the rates of the Reduction Half‐Cycle (RHC) of LT‐SCR display a quadratic dependence on CuII, thus questioning mechanisms based on isolated CuII‐ions. We propose, instead, a CuII‐pair mediated LT‐RHC pathway, in which NO oxidative activation to mobile nitrite‐precursor intermediates accounts for CuII reduction. These results highlight the role of dinuclear Cu complexes not only in the oxidation part of LT‐SCR, but also in the RHC reaction cascade.
Amine‐to‐Azide Conversion on Native RNA via Metal‐Free Diazotransfer Opens New Avenues for RNA Manipulations
Authors: Krasheninina Olga A. , Thaler Julia , Erlacher Matthias D. , Micura Ronald
Published: January 2021

A major challenge in the field of RNA chemistry is the identification of selective and quantitative conversion reactions on RNA that can be used for tagging and any other RNA tool development. Here, we introduce metal‐free diazotransfer on native RNA containing an aliphatic primary amino group using the diazotizing reagent fluorosulfuryl azide (FSO2N3). The reaction provides the corresponding azide‐modified RNA in nearly quantitatively yields without affecting the nucleobase amino groups. The obtained azido‐RNA can then be further processed utilizing well‐established bioortho‐gonal reactions, such as azide‐alkyne cycloadditions (Click) or Staudinger ligations. We exemplify the robustness of this approach for the synthesis of peptidyl‐tRNA mimics and for the pull‐down of 3‐(3‐amino‐3‐carboxypropyl)uridine (acp3U)‐ and lysidine (k2C)‐containing tRNAs of an Escherichia coli tRNA pool isolated from cellular extracts. Our approach therefore adds a new dimension to the targeted chemical manipulation of diverse RNA species.
Oxidovanadium(IV/V) complexes bound with a ONS donor backbone: The search for therapeutic versatility in one class of compounds
Authors: Kongot Manasa , Chaudhary Riya , M S Pooja , Reddy Dinesh , Singh Vishal , Avecilla Fernando , Singhal Nitin Kumar , Kumar Amit
Published: January 2021

Among the multifarious approaches to treat health challenges such as microbial infections, cancers, and diabetes, metallotherapy is a very significant one. Many transition metal‐based candidates have been previously developed that displayed promising therapeutic interests. Vanadium is one such biologically important transition metal, and in the present work, we have developed potent bioactive vanadium complexes, namely, [{VVO(hpdbal‐smdt)}2μ‐O] (1), [VVO(hpdbal‐smdt)(bha)] (2), [VVO(hpdbal‐smdt)(cat)] (3), [VIVO(hpdbal‐smdt)(phen)] (4), and [VIVO(hpdbal‐smdt)(bipy)] (5), which were synthesized using a ONS donor‐based ligand, H2hpdbal‐smdt (H2L), and [VO(acac)2] alongside secondary ligands, benzohydroxamic acid (bha), catechol (cat), 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen), and 2,2′‐bipyridyl (bipy), respectively. The complexes were mainly characterized using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR),1H‐NMR,13C‐NMR, and infrared (IR) spectroscopy techniques. The ligand was additionally characterized using a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The compounds were tested for their therapeutic versatility, namely, glucose uptake activity, free radical scavenging activity, and growth inhibitory action towards resilient microbial strains and liver cancer cells. The oxo‐bridged dinuclear vanadium complex (1) showed promising growth inhibitory activity againstPseudomonas aeruginosabacterial species. Secondary ligand tethered compound (2) displayed notable toxicity against the human liver cancer cells. All complexes induced glucose uptake by the insulin‐resistant cells and exhibited moderate to high antioxidant potential. pH titration and interaction study of these complexes with bovine serum albumin were conducted to investigate solution stability and protein binding properties.
Zonisamide effects on sleep problems and depressive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Suzuki Keisuke , Fujita Hiroaki , Matsubara Takeo , Haruyama Yasuo , Kadowaki Taro , Funakoshi Kei , Watanabe Yuji , Hirata Koichi
Published: January 2021

Background

We aimed to evaluate the effect of zonisamide (ZNS) on motor symptoms and nonmotor symptoms such as depressive symptoms and sleep problems in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients with or without tremor.

Methods

We conducted a 3‐month, open‐label study to assess the effects of ZNS on motor symptoms, depressive symptoms and sleep problems. Twenty levodopa‐treated PD patients with motor fluctuation completed the study. Patients received 25–50 mg/day of ZNS and were assessed for the Japanese version of the Movement Disorder Society Revision of the Unified PD Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS) parts I, III, and IV, PD Sleep Scale (PDSS)‐2, Beck depression inventory‐2 (BDI‐II), and PD Questionnaire (PDQ‐8) at baseline and after 1, 2 and 3 months of treatment. Patients were categorized into the tremor group and nontremor group to assess changes in clinical parameters.

Results

At 3 months, the scores on the MDS‐UPDRS parts I, III and IV significantly improved and off‐time reduced compared to baseline. Additionally, the PDSS‐2 total score significantly decreased at 3 months. Although there were no significant differences in changes in UPDRS part I, III, or IV between the groups after ZNS treatment, the tremor group had significant improvements in PDSS‐2 at 3 months and BDI‐II at 1, 2 and 3 months compared with the nontremor group.

Conclusion

We showed the beneficial effects of ZNS on motor symptoms and sleep problems in levodopa‐treated PD patients with motor fluctuation. ZNS may be more effective for several nonmotor symptoms in PD patients with tremor compared with those without tremor.
Discovery of an Allosteric Ligand Binding Site in SMYD3 Lysine Methyltransferase
Authors: Talibov Vladimir O. , Fabini Edoardo , FitzGerald Edward A. , Tedesco Daniele , Cederfelt Daniela , Talu Martin J. , Rachman Moira M. , Mihalic Filip , Manoni Elisabetta , Naldi Marina , Sanese Paola , Forte Giovanna , Lepore Signorile Martina , Barril Xavier , Simone Cristiano , Bartolini Manuela , Dobritzsch Doreen , Del Rio Alberto , Danielson U. Helena
Published: January 2021

SMYD3 is a multifunctional epigenetic enzyme with lysine methyltransferase activity and various interaction partners. It is implicated in the pathophysiology of cancers but with an unclear mechanism. To discover tool compounds for clarifying its biochemistry and potential as a therapeutic target, a set of drug‐like compounds was screened in a biosensor‐based competition assay. Diperodon was identified as an allosteric ligand; its R and S enantiomers were isolated, and their affinities to SMYD3 were determined (KD=42 and 84 μM, respectively). Co‐crystallization revealed that both enantiomers bind to a previously unidentified allosteric site in the C‐terminal protein binding domain, consistent with its weak inhibitory effect. No competition between diperodon and HSP90 (a known SMYD3 interaction partner) was observed although SMYD3–HSP90 binding was confirmed (KD=13 μM). Diperodon clearly represents a novel starting point for the design of tool compounds interacting with a druggable allosteric site, suitable for the exploration of noncatalytic SMYD3 functions and therapeutics with new mechanisms of action.
Mixed Organometallic–Organic Hybrid Assemblies Based on the Diarsene Complex [Cp2Mo2(CO)4(μ,η2‐As2)], AgI Salts and N‐Donor Organic Molecules
Authors: Elsayed Moussa Mehdi , Shelyganov Pavel A. , Seidl Michael , Peresypkina Eugenia , Berg Nele , Gschwind Ruth M. , Balázs Gábor , Schiller Jana , Scheer Manfred
Published: January 2021

The reaction of the organometallic diarsene complex [Cp2Mo2(CO)4(η2‐As2)] (1) with Ag[Al{OC(CF3)3}4] (Ag[TEF]) yielded the AgI monomer [Ag(η2‐1)3][TEF] (2). This compound exhibits dynamic behavior in solution, which allows directed selective synthesis of unprecedented organometallic–organic hybrid assemblies upon its reaction with N‐donor organic molecules by a stepwise pathway, which is supported by DFT calculations. Accordingly, the reaction of 2 with 2,2′‐bipyrimidine (L1) yielded the dicationic molecular compound [{(η2‐1)2Ag}2(μ‐L1)][TEF]2 (3) or the 1D polymer [{(η2‐1)Ag}(μ‐L1)]n[TEF]n (4) depending on the ratio of the reactants. However, its reactions with the pyridine‐based linkers 4,4′‐bipyridine (L2), 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene (L3) and 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethyne (L4) allowed the formation of the 2D polymers [{(η2‐1)Ag}2(μ‐Lx)3]n[TEF]2n [Lx=L2 (5), L3 (6), L4 (7), respectively]. Additionally, this concept was extended to step‐by‐step one‐pot reactions of 1, [Ag(CH3CN)3][Al{OC(CF3)2(CCl3)}4] ([Ag(CH3CN)3][TEFCl]) and linkers L2–L4 to produce the 2D polymers [{(η2‐1)Ag}2(μ,Lx)3]n[TEFCl]2n [Lx=L2 (8), L3 (9), L4 (10), respectively].
A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐ and Positive‐Controlled, Three‐Way Crossover Study in Healthy Participants to Investigate the Effect of Savolitinib on the QTc Interval
Authors: Sahota Tarjinder , Dota Corina D. , Vik Torbjörn , Yan Weili , Verheijen Remy B. , Walker Stephen , Li Yan , Goldwater Ronald , Ghiorghiu Dana , Mellemgaard Anders , Ahmed Ghada F.
Published: January 2021

Savolitinib (AZD6094, HMPL‐504, volitinib) is an oral, bioavailable, selective MET‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor. This randomized, double‐blind, 3‐way, crossover phase 1 study of savolitinib versus moxifloxacin (positive control) and placebo‐evaluated effects on the QT interval after a single savolitinib dose. Healthy non‐Japanese men were randomized to 1 of 6 treatment sequences, receiving single doses of savolitinib 600 mg, moxifloxacin 400 mg, and placebo. The primary end point was time‐matched, placebo‐adjusted change from baseline in the QT interval corrected for the time between corresponding points on 2 consecutive R waves on electrocardiogram (RR) by the Fridericia formula (ΔΔQTcF). Secondary end points included 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) variables, pharmacokinetics, and safety. All 3 treatment periods were completed by 44 of 45 participants (98%). Baseline demographics were balanced across treatment groups. After a single savolitinib 600‐mg dose, the highest least‐squares mean ΔΔQTcF of 12 milliseconds was observed 5 hours postdose. Upper limits of the 2‐sided 90% confidence interval for ΔΔQTcF exceeded 10 milliseconds (the prespecified International Council for Harmonisation limit) 3‐6 hours postsavolitinib but otherwise remained less than the threshold. Savolitinib showed no additional effect on PR, QRS, QT, or RR intervals. A positive ΔΔQTcF signal from the moxifloxacin group confirmed study validity. Savolitinib was well tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse events. In this thorough QT/QTc study, QTcF prolongation was observed with a single savolitinib 600‐mg dose. ECG monitoring will be implemented in ongoing and future studies of savolitinib to assess the clinical relevance of the observed QT changes from this study.
Donor Functionalized Iron(II) N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes in Transfer Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Lopes Rita , Raya‐Barón Álvaro , Robalo M. Paula , Vinagreiro Carolina , Barroso Sónia , Romão Maria J. , Fernández Ignacio , Pereira Mariette M. , Royo Beatriz
Published: January 2021

Two piano‐stool iron(II) complexes bearing N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands outfitted with acetamide‐ and amine‐pendant arms [Cp*Fe(NHCR)(CO)I] {Cp* = η5‐tetramethylcyclopentadienyl; R = CH2CONEt2 (3), (CH2)2NEt2 (4)}, have been prepared and fully characterized. Their catalytic activity in transfer hydrogenation (TH) of ketones using iPrOH as a hydrogen source and catalytic amounts of base (LiOtBu) has been explored, along with that of previously reported [CpFe(NHCR)(CO)I] {R = nBu (5), (CH2)2OH (6), Et (7), and (CH2)3OH (8)} complexes containing hydroxyl and nonfunctionalized alkyl arms. Complex 3 displayed the highest catalytic activity of the whole series 3–8, reaching a TOF50 value of 533 h–1. NMR monitoring of the stoichiometric reaction of 3 with LiOtBu, allowed the identification of a new species 3' containing a deprotonated amidate moiety, which has been fully characterized by 1H, 13C, and 15N NMR. Finally, a green protocol for the reduction of ketones through TH using glycerol as a hydrogen source, under microwave irradiation in the presence of catalytic amounts of 3 and base has been developed.
Stochastic dominance algorithms with application to mutual fund performance evaluation
Authors: Venkataraman Sree Vinutha , Rao S. V. D. Nageswara
Published: January 2021

While the possibility for investment A to dominate investment B under the first‐ and second‐order stochastic dominance framework can be tested only at the points of jumps in the probabilities of the distributions, the comparison at interior points is also essential under third‐order, due to the non‐linearity in the difference in the third‐order stochastic dominance integral. Furthermore, it was established that the quantile approach used to test for the first‐ and second‐order dominance does not work under the third‐order. If these points are overlooked, it is possible to conclude that an investment is third‐order inefficient when it is actually efficient. Also, an inefficient investment may not be relegated to the inefficient set. In this work, to test for third‐order efficiency, we derive the expressions for the functions essential for testing the possibility of third‐order stochastic dominance at the interior points and arrive at their restrictions on the common grid of the pairwise investments under consideration. We also develop a program to determine the efficient funds and the funds superior and inferior to the benchmark indices at a fast pace. We find that the size of the efficient set reduces drastically under third‐order. Also, several funds are found to be superior to the indices under second‐ and third‐order.