bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quasi‐Newtonian Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (QN‐ESEM) for Monitoring Material Dynamics in High‐Pressure Gaseous Environments
Authors: Zhu Jinlong , Zhang Lenan , Li Xiangyu , Wilke Kyle L. , Wang Evelyn N. , Goddard Lynford L.
Published: August 2020

Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) is a powerful technique that enables imaging of diverse specimens (e.g., biomaterials, chemical materials, nanomaterials) in a hydrated or native state while simultaneously maintaining micro‐to‐nanoscale resolution. However, it is difficult to achieve high signal‐to‐noise and artifact‐free secondary electron images in a high‐pressure gaseous environment due to the intensive electron‐gas collisions. In addition, nanotextured substrates can mask the signal from a weakly scattering sample. These drawbacks limit the study of material dynamics under extreme conditions and correspondingly our understanding in many fields. In this work, an imaging framework called Quasi‐Newtonian ESEM is proposed, which introduces the concepts of quasi‐force and quasi‐work by referencing the scattering force in light–matter interactions, to break these barriers without any hardware changes. It is shown that quasi‐force is a more fundamental quantity that has a more significant connection with the sample morphology than intensity in the strongly scattering regime. Experimental and theoretical studies on the dynamics of droplet condensation in a high‐pressure environment (up to 2500 Pa) successfully demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the framework and that the overwhelmed signal of interest in ESEM images can be reconstructed through information stored in the time domain, i.e., frames captured at different moments.
Mitochondrial energetic impairment in a patient with late‐onset glutaric acidemia Type 2
Authors: Xiao Changrui , Astiazaran‐Symonds Esteban , Basu Shrabani , Kisling Monisha , Scaglia Fernando , Chapman Kimberly A. , Wang Yudong , Vockley Jerry , Ferreira Carlos R.
Published: August 2020

Glutaric acidemia type 2 (GA2), also called multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, is an autosomal recessive disorder of fatty acid, amino acid, and choline metabolism resulting in excretion of multiple organic acids and glycine conjugates as well as elevation of various plasma acylcarnitine species (C4–C18). It is caused by mutations in the ETFA, ETFB, or ETFDH genes which are involved in the transfer of electrons from 11 flavin‐containing dehydrogenases to Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC). We report a patient who was originally reported as the first case with primary myopathic CoQ10 deficiency when he presented at 11.5 years with exercise intolerance and myopathy that improved after treatment with ubiquinone and carnitine. At age 23, his symptoms relapsed despite increasing doses of ubiquinone and he was shown to have biallelic mutations in the ETFDH gene. Treatment with riboflavin was started and ubiquinone was changed to ubiquinol. After 4 months, the patient recovered his muscle strength with normalization of laboratory exams and exercise tolerance. Functional studies on fibroblasts revealed decreased levels of ETFDH as well as of very long‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase and trifunctional protein α. In addition, the mitochondrial mass was decreased, with increased formation of reactive oxygen species and oxygen consumption rate, but with a decreased spared respiratory capacity, and decreased adenosine triphosphate level. These findings of widespread dysfunction of fatty acid oxidation and ETC enzymes support the impairment of a larger mitochondrial ETC supercomplex in our patient.
Visual detection and fruit selection by the mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata)
Authors: Sánchez‐Solano Karem G. , Morales‐Mávil Jorge É. , Laska Matthias , Melin Amanda , Hernández‐Salazar Laura T.
Published: August 2020

Howler monkeys (platyrrhini) have evolved routine trichromatic color vision independently from catarrhines, which presents an opportunity to test hypotheses concerning the adaptive value of distinguishing reddish from greenish hues. A longstanding hypothesis posits that trichromacy aids in the efficient detection of reddish‐ripe fruits, which could be an advantage for the detection of the nutritional content of the fruit, such as sugars. In the present study, we assessed fruit visual conspicuity and selection based on color and sucrose content by wild mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) on Agaltepec Island, Mexico. We used colorimetry to classify dietary fruits as cryptic (greenish) or conspicuous (reddish) against their background leaves. Species‐specific color models indicate that trichromatic howler monkeys should be more efficient in discriminating the conspicuous ripe fruits from leaves compared to detecting cryptic ripe fruits from leaves. We found howler monkeys consume more cryptic fruits compared to conspicuous fruits, and that they consume more unripe fruits than ripe fruits. The consumption (acceptance) of fruit was independent of sucrose content, and thus this disaccharide may not play an essential role in mantled howler food selection. Our findings suggest that routine trichromatic color vision may aid in the detection and discrimination of conspicuously colored fruits, but that the final decision whether to accept or reject a fruit probably involves the use of other senses in addition to vision.
Reflections on Untethered Philosophy, Settlements, and Nondisclosure Agreements
Authors: Aaron Marjorie Corman
Published: August 2020

During the innocent ‘80s and ‘90s, when the alternative dispute resolution movement was younger, and I was too, I read some, though surely not all, of the articles opposing the ADR movement for its encouragement of settlements via court‐based, community, and private dispute resolution processes (mainly mediation).
Decided, Granted, Denied: A Look At 2020's Supreme Court Arbitration Cases
Authors: Cameron Heather
Published: August 2020

It was a busy spring and summer for arbitration in the U.S. Supreme Court. And there's more to come this fall.
Perspective on the “African American participation in Alzheimer disease research: Effective strategies” workshop, 2018
Authors: Denny Andrea , Streitz Marissa , Stock Kristin , Balls‐Berry Joyce E. , Barnes Lisa L. , Byrd Goldie S. , Croff Raina , Gao Sujuan , Glover Crystal M. , Hendrie Hugh C. , Hu William T. , Manly Jennifer J. , Moulder Krista L. , Stark Susan , Thomas Stephen B. , Whitmer Rachel , Wong Roger , Morris John C. , Lingler Jennifer H.
Published: August 2020

The Washington University School of Medicine Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center's “African American Participation in Alzheimer Disease Research: Effective Strategies” Workshop convened to address a major limitation of the ongoing scientific progress regarding Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD): participants in most ADRD research programs overwhelmingly have been limited to non‐Hispanic white persons, thus precluding knowledge as to how ADRD may be represented in non‐white individuals. Factors that may contribute to successful recruitment and retention of African Americans into ADRD research were discussed and organized into actionable next steps as described within this report.
Advances in Functional Nanomaterials Science
Authors: Rahimi‐Iman Arash
Published: August 2020

Technologies employing nanomaterials, such as electronics, optoelectronics, nanobiotechnologies, quantum optics, and nanophotonics, are perceived as the key drivers of investigations on novel and functional materials and their nanostructures for various applications. It is well understood that the study of such materials and structures has been of great importance for the optimization and development of electrical and optical devices. From such devices, one does not only expect higher efficiencies, but also access to the development of completely new concepts, which are strongly demanded by modern information‐processing, quantum, or medical technologies, and sensing applications. In this context, a wide range of aspects such as the physics of novel materials, as well as materials engineering, characterization, and applications are summarized here. Novel materials, which can be used, for instance, for energy harvesting or light generation, as well as for future logic devices; material engineering, which can lead to improved device functionality and performance in optoelectronics; material physics, the study of which allows insight to be gained into optical and electrical properties of nanostructured systems and quantum materials; and technologies/devices, addressing progress on the application side of sophisticated material systems and quantum structures, are highlighted using representative examples.
Preparation of Nafion Membranes for Reproducible Ammonia Quantification in Nitrogen Reduction Reaction Experiments
Authors: Hanifpour Fatemeh , Sveinbjörnsson Arnar , Canales Camila Pía , Skúlason Egill , Flosadóttir Helga Dögg
Published: August 2020

This study highlights the importance of following a strict protocol for Nafion membrane pretreatment for electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction experiments. Atmospheric ammonia pollution can be introduced to the experimental setup through membranes and interpreted falsely as catalysis product from N2. The sources of ammonia contamination vary drastically between locations worldwide and even within the same location between days depending on temperature, wind direction, fertilizer use, and manure accumulation in its vicinity. The study shows that significant amounts of ammonium is accumulated in the membranes after commonly practiced pretreatment methods, where the amount depends on the ammonia concentration in the surrounding of the experiment. Therefore, we introduce a new pretreatment method which removes all the ammonium in the membrane. The membranes can be stored for several days but a short final step in the method needs to be carried out right before NRR experiments.
α‐Kationische Phosphole: Synthese und Anwendungen als Liganden
Authors: Johannsen Tim , Golz Christopher , Alcarazo Manuel
Published: August 2020

Eine Reihe von strukturell unterschiedlichen α‐kationischen Phospholen mit Cyclopropenium‐, Imidazolium‐ und Iminium‐Subsituenten wurde durch die Reaktion von Chlorophosphol 1 mit den entsprechenden stabilen Carbenen synthetisiert. Die Evaluierung der Donor‐Eigenschaften dieser Verbindungen zeigt, dass deren starker π‐Akzeptor‐Charakter deutlich von der Art des kationischen Substituenten abhängig ist. Zusätzlich wurde die Koordinationschemie dieser neuen Liganden mit AuI untersucht und deren einzigartigen elektronischen Eigenschaften in der Katalyse gezeigt. Interessanterweise waren auf α‐kationischen Phospholen basierende Katalysatoren nicht nur in der Lage, die gewählten Cycloisomerisierungsreaktionen zu beschleunigen, sondern auch bei mehreren möglichen Reaktionspfaden einen deutlich zu bevorzugen und so die Bildung unerwünschter Produktgemische zu verhindern.
Reactivity–Stereoselectivity Mapping for the Assembly of Mycobacterium marinum Lipooligosaccharides
Authors: Hansen Thomas , Ofman Tim P. , Vlaming Joey G. C. , Gagarinov Ivan A. , van Beek Jessey , Goté Tessa A. , Tichem Jacoba M. , Ruijgrok Gijs , Overkleeft Herman S. , Filippov Dmitri V. , van der Marel Gijsbert A. , Codée Jeroen D. C.
Published: August 2020

The assembly of complex bacterial glycans presenting rare structural motifs and cis‐glycosidic linkages is significantly obstructed by the lack of knowledge of the reactivity of the constituting building blocks and the stereoselectivity of the reactions in which they partake. We here report a strategy to map the reactivity of carbohydrate building blocks and apply it to understand the reactivity of the bacterial sugar, caryophyllose, a rare C12‐monosaccharide, containing a characteristic tetrasubstituted stereocenter. We mapped reactivity–stereoselectivity relationships for caryophyllose donor and acceptor glycosides by a systematic series of glycosylations in combination with the detection and characterization of different reactive intermediates using experimental and computational techniques. The insights garnered from these studies enabled the rational design of building blocks with the required properties to assemble mycobacterial lipooligosaccharide fragments of M. marinum.
Nitro and Other Electron Withdrawing Group Activated Ruthenium Catalysts for Olefin Metathesis Reactions
Authors: Kajetanowicz Anna , Grela Karol
Published: August 2020

Advanced applications of the Nobel Prize winning olefin metathesis reaction require user‐friendly and highly universal catalysts. From many successful metathesis catalysts, which belong to the two distinct classes of Schrock and Grubbs‐type catalysts, the subclass of chelating‐benzylidene ruthenium complexes (so‐called Hoveyda–Grubbs catalysts) additionally activated by electron‐withdrawing groups (EWGs) provides a highly tunable platform. In the Review, the origin of the EWG‐activation concept and selected applications of the resulting catalysts in target‐oriented synthesis, medicinal chemistry, as well as in the preparation of fine‐chemicals and in materials chemistry is discussed. Based on the examples, some suggestions for end‐users regarding minimization of catalyst loading, selectivity control, and general optimization of the olefin metathesis reaction are provided.
α‐Cationic Phospholes: Synthesis and Applications as Ancillary Ligands
Authors: Johannsen Tim , Golz Christopher , Alcarazo Manuel
Published: August 2020

A series of structurally differentiated α‐cationic phospholes containing cyclopropenium, imidazolium, and iminium substituents has been synthesized by reaction of chlorophosphole 1 with the corresponding stable carbenes. Evaluation of the donor properties of these compounds reveals that their strong π‐acceptor character is heavily influenced by the nature of the cationic group. The coordination chemistry of these newly prepared ligands towards AuI centers is also described and their unique electronic properties exploited in catalysis. Interestingly, α‐cationic phosphole containing catalysts were not only able to accelerate model cycloisomerization reactions, but also to efficiently discriminate between concurrent reaction pathways, avoiding the formation of undesired product mixtures.
Highly Selective Olefin Production from CO2 Hydrogenation on Iron Catalysts: A Subtle Synergy between Manganese and Sodium Additives
Authors: Xu Yao , Zhai Peng , Deng Yuchen , Xie Jinglin , Liu Xi , Wang Shuai , Ma Ding
Published: August 2020

Mn and Na additives have been widely studied to improve the efficiency of CO2 hydrogenation to valuable olefins on Fe catalysts, but their effects on the catalytic properties and mechanism are still under vigorous debate. This study shows that Fe‐based catalysts with moderate Mn and Na contents are highly selective for CO2 hydrogenation to olefins, together with low selectivities for both CO and CH4 and much improved space‐time olefin yields compared to state‐of‐the‐art catalysts. Combined kinetic assessment and quasi in situ characterizations further unveil that the sole presence of Mn suppresses the activity of Fe catalysts because of the close contact between Fe and Mn, whereas the introduction of Na mediates the Fe–Mn interaction and provides strong basic sites. This subtle synergy between Na and Mn sheds light on the importance of the interplay of multiple additives that could bring an enabling strategy to improve catalytic activity and selectivity.
Polymerized Small‐Molecule Acceptors for High‐Performance All‐Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Zhi‐Guo , Li Yongfang
Published: August 2020

All‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) have drawn tremendous research interest in recent years, due to their inherent advantages of good film formation, stable morphology, and mechanical flexibility. The most representative and most widely used n‐CP acceptor was the naphthalene diimide based D‐A copolymer N2200 before 2017, and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the all‐PSCs based on N2200 reached over 8% in 2016. However, the low absorption coefficient of N2200 in the near‐infrared (NIR) region limits the further increase of its PCE. In 2017, we proposed a strategy of polymerizing small‐molecule acceptors (SMAs) to construct new‐generation polymer acceptors. The polymerized SMAs (PSMAs) possess low band gap and strong absorption in the NIR region, which attracted great attention and drove the PCE of the all‐PSCs to over 15% recently. In this Minireview we explain the design strategies of the molecular structure of PSMAs and describe recent research progress. Finally, current challenges and future prospects of the PSMAs are analyzed and discussed.
Conformation and Aromaticity Switching in a Curved Non‐Alternant sp2 Carbon Scaffold
Authors: Zhu Chongwei , Shoyama Kazutaka , Würthner Frank
Published: August 2020

A curved sp2 carbon scaffold containing fused pentagon and heptagon units (1) was synthesized by Pd‐catalyzed [5+2] annulation from a 3,9‐diboraperylene precursor and shows two reversible oxidation processes at low redox potential, accompanied by a butterfly‐like motion. Stepwise oxidation produced radical cation 1.+ and dication 12+. In the crystal structure, 1 exhibits a chiral cisoid conformation and partial π‐overlap between the enantiomers. For the radical cation 1.+, a less curved cisoid conformation is observed with a π‐dimer‐type arrangement. 12+ adopts a more planar structure with transoid conformation and slip‐stacked π‐overlap with closest neighbors. We also observed an intermolecular mixed‐valence complex of 1⋅(1.+)3 that has a huge trigonal unit cell [(1)72(SbF6)54⋅(hexane)101] and hexagonal columnar stacks. In addition to the conformational change, the aromaticity of 1 changes from localized to delocalized, as demonstrated by AICD and NICS(1)zz calculations.
Enantio‐ and Regioselective NiH‐Catalyzed Reductive Hydroarylation of Vinylarenes with Aryl Iodides
Authors: He Yuli , Liu Chuang , Yu Lei , Zhu Shaolin
Published: August 2020

A highly enantio‐ and regioselective hydroarylation process of vinylarenes with aryl halides has been developed using a NiH catalyst and a new chiral bis imidazoline ligand. A broad range of structurally diverse, enantioenriched 1,1‐diarylalkanes, a structure found in a number of biologically active molecules, have been obtained with excellent yields and enantioselectivities under extremely mild conditions.
Comprehensive Behavioral Phenotyping of a 16p11.2 Del Mouse Model for Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Lynch Joseph F. , Ferri Sarah L. , Angelakos Christopher , Schoch Hannah , Nickl‐Jockschat Thomas , Gonzalez Arnold , O'Brien William Timothy , Abel Ted
Published: August 2020

The microdeletion of copy number variant 16p11.2 is one of the most common genetic mutations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Here, we describe our comprehensive behavioral phenotyping of the 16p11.2 deletion line developed by Alea Mills on a C57BL/6J and 129S1/SvImJ F1 background (Delm). Male and female Delm mice were tested in developmental milestones as preweanlings (PND2‐PND12), and were tested in open field activity, elevated zero maze, rotarod, novel object recognition, fear conditioning, social approach, and other measures during post‐weaning (PND21), adolescence (PND42), and adulthood (>PND70). Developmentally, Delm mice show distinct weight reduction that persists into adulthood. Delm males also have reduced grasp reflexes and limb strength during development, but no other reflexive deficits whereas Delm females show limb strength deficits and decreased sensitivity to heat. In a modified version of a rotarod task that measures balance and coordinated motor activity, Delm males, but not females, show improved performance at high speeds. Delm males and females also show age‐specific reductions in anxiety‐like behavior compared with WTs, but neither sex show deficits in a social preference task. When assessing learning and memory, Delm males and females show age‐specific impairments in a novel object or spatial object recognition, but no deficits in contextual fear memory. This work extends the understanding of the behavioral phenotypes seen with 16p11.2 deletion by emphasizing age and sex‐specific deficits; important variables to consider when studying mouse models for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Lay Summary

Autism spectrum disorder is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that causes repetitive behavior and impairments in social interaction and communication. Here, we assess the effects of one of the most common genetic alterations in ASDs, a deletion of one copy of 29 genes, using a mouse model. These animals show differences in behavior between males and females and across ages compared with control animals, including changes in development, cognition, and motor coordination. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1670–1684. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals LLC
Adding diversity to a board has never been more important
Authors: Barrett John , Buck Bryan
Published: August 2020

The world is a diverse place, and successful companies understand, respect and model that diversity within their leadership teams and throughout the organization.
Neue numerische Simulation für alte Holzkonstruktionen
Authors: Konopka Daniel , Stöcklein Josef , Kaliske Michael
Published: August 2020

Holz ist ein Werkstoff mit langer Tradition und breitem Anwendungsspektrum. Der Beitrag gibt einen Einblick in die Methodenentwicklung für die numerische Simulation historischer Kulturgüter aus Holz mit der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode. Die vorgestellten Ansätze sind konsistent auf alle Klassen von Holzstrukturen übertragbar. Die Materialeigenschaften von Holz sind grundsätzlich nichtlinear, skalen‐, richtungs‐, klima‐ und zeitabhängig. In Holzstrukturen tragen u. a. auch Klebfugen, Lackierungen und Furniere wesentlich zum klimaabhängigen Strukturverhalten bei. An Strukturbeispielen werden die Einflüsse des Materials, der mechanischen und insbesondere der klimatischen Beanspruchungen auf das zeitabhängige Strukturverhalten sowie die Ansätze der numerischen Simulation zur Bewertung des Tragverhaltens von Holzstrukturen mit aktuellen Modellen verdeutlicht. Der vorliegende Beitrag wurde am 18. Oktober 2019 im Rahmen des 23. Dresdner Baustatik Seminars präsentiert.
The effects of aerobic exercise on markers of maternal metabolism during pregnancy
Authors: McDonald Samantha M. , Strom Cody , Remchak Mary‐Margaret , Chaves Alec , Broskey Nicholas T. , Isler Christy , Haven Kelley , Newton Edward , DeVente James , Acosta‐Manzano Pedro , Aparicio Virginia A. , May Linda E.
Published: August 2020

Background

Optimal maternal metabolism during pregnancy is essential for healthy fetal growth and development. Chronic exercise is shown to positively affect metabolism, predominantly demonstrated in nonpregnant populations.

Objective

To determine the effects of aerobic exercise on maternal metabolic biomarkers during pregnancy, with expected lower levels of glucose, insulin, and lipids among exercise‐trained pregnant women.

Methods

Secondary data analyses were performed using data from two, longitudinal prenatal exercise intervention studies (ENHANCED by MOM and GESTAFIT). Exercisers completed 150 min of weekly moderate‐intensity exercise during pregnancy (24+ weeks) while nonexercisers attended stretching sessions. Pregnant women were 31–33 years of age, predominantly non‐Hispanic white, and “normal weight” body mass index. At 16 and 36 weeks of gestation, fasting blood samples were collected via fingerstick and venipuncture. Maternal glucose, insulin, insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoproteins (LDL), high‐density lipoproteins (HDL), and triglycerides (TG) were analyzed. ANCOVA analyses were performed to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise on markers of maternal metabolism in late pregnancy, controlling for baseline levels.

Results

Our sample included 12 aerobic exercisers and 54 nonexercising control groups. Significant between‐groups differences at 16 weeks of gestation were found for TG (92.3 vs. 121.2 mg/dl, p = .04), TC (186.8 vs. 219.6 mg/dl, p = .002), and LDL (104.1 vs. 128.8 mg/dl, p = .002). Aerobic‐trained pregnant women exhibited lower insulin levels in late pregnancy (β = −2.6 μIU/ml, 95% CI:−4.2, −0.95, p = .002) and a reduced increase in insulin levels from 16 to 36 week of gestation (β = −2.3 μIU/ml, 95% CI: −4.4, −0.2, p = .034) compared with nonexercising pregnant women. No statistically significant effects were observed for maternal HOMA‐IR, TC, LDL, HDL, TC:HDL, and TG in late pregnancy.

Conclusions

The observations of this study demonstrate that prenatal exercise may positively affect maternal insulin, with aerobic‐trained pregnant women exhibiting lower insulin levels in late pregnancy. Additionally, we found no appreciable effects of prenatal exercise on maternal lipids in late pregnancy.
Development of a Thai tool for assessing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia: A confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Phannarus Harisd , Muangpaisan Weerasak , Siritipakorn Pitiporn , Pianchob Sudarat , Supapueng Orawan
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The early recognition and management of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are important to inform treatment decisions. Current BPSD screening tools are time‐consuming and require advanced skills, limiting their application in routine clinical practice. An easier and quicker tool for use by nonphysician healthcare personnel is needed.

Methods

A 14‐item, Thai‐language, BPSD scoring system for dementia (BPSD‐T) was developed, based on clinical surveys and modifications after a pilot study. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), BPSD‐T, Thai Mental State Examination (TMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR), and Barthel Index were performed. BPSD‐T and NPI scores were compared, and test validity and reliability were analyzed.

Results

A total of 168 people with dementia (mean age, 80.7 ± 6.7 years) and their primary caregivers were recruited. A total of 105 (62.5%) subjects were diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and 31 (18.5%) with AD with small‐vessel disease. The Global CDR was 0.5–1 for 73.8% of subjects, and 2–3 for 26.2%. The BPSD‐T content validity index was 0.80–0.98, with high inter‐rater and test–retest reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis showed the goodness of fit of 5 clusters of BPSD‐T included a psychomotor syndrome (aggression, irritability, delusions, insomnia), an affective syndrome (apathy, repeating, anxiety, depression), a psychosis syndrome (misidentification, hallucinations), a behavior syndrome (hoarding, rummaging, wandering), and a euphoria syndrome (euphoria). Convergent validity showed a high correlation of the frequency score (r = 0.66) and caregiver distress score (r = 0.76) with the NPI. The BPSD‐T score was significantly higher with more severe dementia. The average completion time for the BPSD‐T (230.9 ± 65.5 s) was significantly less than that for NPI (506 ± 196.9 s; p < .001).

Conclusions

BPSD‐T is a quick, reliable, and valid test to evaluate BPSD from the common dementia subtypes and severity, with a good correlation with the NPI. Its application in routine clinical practice will enable earlier recognition, targeted intervention, improved quality of care, and reduced caregiver burden.
Learn ins and outs of managing COVID‐19 risk with liability waivers
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: August 2020

Athletics departments throughout the country have understandable concerns about student‐athletes’ potential exposure to COVID‐19, especially since individual medical outcomes can greatly vary. Although many individuals have fully recovered, others have not been so fortunate. However, according to numerous reports, even individuals as healthy as typical college student‐athletes have suffered prolonged complications and death. In addition, because the potential long‐term health consequences of COVID‐19 remain unknown, the lifelong impact and cost of exposure remain uncertain but could be significant.
Incorporation of Halogenated Amino Acids into Antibody Fragments at Multiple Specific Sites Enhances Antigen Binding
Authors: Hayashi Akiko , Haruna Ken‐ichi , Sato Haruna , Ito Kenichiro , Makino Chisato , Ito Takuhiro , Sakamoto Kensaku
Published: August 2020

Expansion of the amino‐acid repertoire with synthetic derivatives introduces novel structures and functionalities into proteins. In this study, we improved the antigen binding of antibodies by incorporating halogenated tyrosines at multiple selective sites. Tyrosines in the Fab fragment of an anti‐EGF‐receptor antibody 059–152 were systematically replaced with 3‐bromo‐ and 3‐chlorotyrosines, and simultaneous replacements at four specific sites were found to cause a tenfold increase in the affinity toward the antigen. Structure modeling suggested that this effect was due to enhanced shape complementarity between the antigen and antibody molecules. On the other hand, we showed that chlorination in the constant domain, far from the binding interface, of Rituximab Fab also increased the affinity significantly (up to 17‐fold). Our results showed that antigen binding is tunable with the halogenation in and out of the binding motifs.
Biochemical and Structural Characterization of an Unusual and Naturally Split Class 3 Intein
Authors: Hoffmann Simon , Terhorst Tobias M. E. , Singh Rohit K. , Kümmel Daniel , Pietrokovski Shmuel , Mootz Henning D.
Published: August 2020

Split inteins are indispensable tools for protein engineering because their ligation and cleavage reactions enable unique modifications of the polypeptide backbone. Three different classes of inteins have been identified according to the nature of the covalent intermediates resulting from the acyl rearrangements in the multistep protein‐splicing pathway. Class 3 inteins employ a characteristic internal cysteine for a branched thioester intermediate. A bioinformatic database search of non‐redundant protein sequences revealed the absence of split variants in 1701 class 3 inteins. We have discovered the first reported split class 3 intein in a metagenomics data set and report its biochemical, mechanistic and structural analysis. The AceL NrdHF intein exhibits low sequence conservation with other inteins and marked deviations in residues at conserved key positions, including a variation of the typical class‐3 WCT triplet motif. Nevertheless, functional analysis confirmed the class 3 mechanism of the intein and revealed excellent splicing yields within a few minutes over a wide range of conditions and with barely detectable cleavage side reactions. A high‐resolution crystal structure of the AceL NrdHF precursor and a mutagenesis study explained the importance and roles of several residues at the key positions. Tolerated substitutions in the flanking extein residues and a high affinity between the split intein fragments further underline the intein's future potential as a ligation tool.
Bioorthogonal Chemistry Enables Single‐Molecule FRET Measurements of Catalytically Active Protein Disulfide Isomerase
Authors: Chinnaraj Mathivanan , Barrios David A. , Frieden Carl , Heyduk Tomasz , Flaumenhaft Robert , Pozzi Nicola
Published: August 2020

Folding of newly synthesized proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum is assisted by several families of enzymes. One such family is the protein disulfide isomerases (PDIs). PDIs are oxidoreductases, capable of forming new disulfide bonds or breaking existing ones. Structural information on PDIs unbound and bound to substrates is highly desirable for developing targeted therapeutics, yet it has been difficult to obtain by using traditional approaches because of their relatively large size and remarkable flexibility. Single‐molecule FRET (smFRET) could be a powerful tool to study PDIs’ structure and dynamics under conditions relevant to physiology, but its implementation has been hindered by technical challenges of position‐specific fluorophore labeling. We have overcome this limitation by site‐specifically engineering fluorescent dyes into human PDI, the founding member of the family. Proof‐of‐concept smFRET measurements of catalytically active PDI demonstrate, for the first time, the feasibility of this approach, expanding the toolkit for structural studies of PDIs.
Discovery of Six Ramoplanin Family Gene Clusters and the Lipoglycodepsipeptide Chersinamycin**
Authors: Morgan Kelsey T. , Zheng Jeffrey , McCafferty Dewey G.
Published: August 2020

Ramoplanins and enduracidins are peptidoglycan lipid intermediate II‐binding lipodepsipeptides with broad‐spectrum activity against methicillin‐ and vancomycin‐resistant Gram‐positive pathogens. Targeted genome mining using probes from conserved sequences within the ramoplanin/enduracidin biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) was used to identify six microorganisms with BGCs predicted to produce unique lipodepsipeptide congeners of ramoplanin and enduracidin. Fermentation of Micromonospora chersina yielded a novel lipoglycodepsipeptide, called chersinamycin, which exhibited good antibiotic activity against Gram‐positive bacteria (1–2 μg/mL) similar to the ramoplanins and enduracidins. The covalent structure of chersinamycin was determined by NMR spectroscopy and tandem mass spectrometry in conjunction with chemical degradation studies. These six new BGCs and isolation of a new antimicrobial peptide provide much‐needed tools to investigate the fundamental aspects of lipodepsipeptide biosynthesis and to facilitate efforts to produce novel antibiotics capable of combating antibiotic‐resistant infections.
Telocytes are associated with tissue remodeling and angiogenesis during the postlactational involution of the mammary gland in gerbils
Authors: Sanches Bruno D. A. , Leonel Ellen C. R. , Maldarine Juliana S. , Tamarindo Guilherme H. , Barquilha Caroline N. , Felisbino Sérgio L. , Goés Rejane M. , Vilamaior Patricia S. L. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: August 2020

The postlactational involution of the mammary gland is a complex process. It involves the collapse of the alveoli and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, which in turn implies a complex set of interrelations between the epithelial, stromal, and extracellular matrix elements. The telocytes, a new type of CD34‐positive stromal cell that differs from fibroblasts in morphological terms and gene expression, were detected in the stroma of several tissues, including the mammary gland; however, their function remains elusive. The present study employed three‐dimensional reconstructions and immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and immunofluorescence techniques in histological sections of the mammary gland of the Mongolian gerbil during lactation and postlactational involution to evaluate the presence of telocytes and to investigate a possible function for these cells. By means of immunofluorescence assays for CD34 and c‐kit, major markers of telocytes, and also through morphological and ultrastructural evidences, telocytes were observed to surround the mammary ducts and collapsing alveoli. It was also found that these cells are associated with matrix metalloproteinase 9, which indicates that telocytes can play a role in extracellular matrix digestion, as well as vascular endothelial growth factor, a factor that promotes angiogenesis. Together, these data indicate that telocytes are a distinct cell type in the mammary gland and, for the first time, show that these cells possibly play a role in tissue remodeling and angiogenesis during the postlactional involution of the mammary gland.
Development of a method for determining oil absorption capacity in pulse flours and protein materials
Authors: Wang Ning , Maximiuk Lisa , Fenn Dora , Nickerson Michael T. , Hou Anfu
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives

The conventional method for determining oil absorption capacity (OAC) in pulse ingredients involves mixing a sample with excess oil, centrifuging the dispersion, and then calculating the amount of oil absorbed. However, there are issues associated with the conventional method such as loss of the less dense materials through oil decanting process and reabsorption of oil by samples after centrifugation. Therefore, the objective of this work was to develop a method that could eliminate those concerns for determining OAC.

Findings

A method for measuring OAC of flours or protein concentrates/isolates derived from pulses and soybeans was developed. The new method involved mixing 0.5 g sample with 1.5 ml canola oil intermittently for 20 min, centrifuging the inverted sample tubes at 600 ×g for 25 min, and measuring the amount of oil absorbed per gram of dry sample. Comparing to the conventional method, the new method used a lower sample to oil ratio (1:3 g/ml), and each test tubes were centrifuged upside down in an apparatus at a lower centrifugal force (600 ×g). A syringe barrel was used in the apparatus to hold a filter paper in place to prevent sample materials from draining out with the excess oil during centrifugation. Test efficiency increased due to combining steps of centrifugation and oil draining in the new method. Differences in OAC values determined by the new method were exhibited from various pulse and soybean materials.

Conclusions

Amounts of oil absorbed by flours and protein concentrates/isolates from pulses and soybeans could be measured by the new method without accounting for the extra free oil trapped in the samples. The new procedure showed good within‐laboratory reproducibility. More samples could be tested with the new method due to its simplified procedure. Flours and protein concentrates/isolates from pulses and soybeans with different OAC values could be separated from each other using the new method.

Significance and novelty

The method developed was simple and reliable and could be applied to a variety of pulse and soybean ingredients.
Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Gas, Oil, and Coal Power Plants in Pakistan by Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): A Review
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Imran , Benhelal Emad , Rafiq Sikander
Published: August 2020

The production of energy in Pakistan as a developing country mainly depends on consumption of fossil fuels, which are the main sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These emissions can be mitigated by implementing carbon capture and storage (CCS) in running plants. An overview of the current and future potentials of Pakistan for CCS is provided, indicating a great potential for this technology to capture CO2 emissions. The amine CO2 capture process as the most mature procedure is currently applied in many oil and gas companies in Pakistan, which can be employed to capture CO2 from other industries as well. Pakistan has a great CO2 storage potential in oil, gas, and coal fields and in saline aquifer as well as significant resources of Mg and Ca silicates suitable as feedstock in the carbon mineralization process. For further development and implementation of CCS technologies in Pakistan, economic and policy barriers as the main obstacles should be alleviated.
Hydrodynamic Performance of a Ring‐Style High‐Shear Impeller in Newtonian and Shear‐Thinning Fluids
Authors: Guadarrama-Pérez Román , Márquez-Baños Valaur E. , De La Concha-Gómez Aarón D. , Valencia-López José J. , Vengoechea-Pimienta Alejandra , Martínez de Jesús Gastón , Ramírez-Muñoz Jorge
Published: August 2020

Laminar mixing of Newtonian and shear‐thinning fluids induced by a Hockmeyer®‐type impeller was investigated. Two unbaffled tanks at three impellers off‐bottom clearances (c) were studied. Six geometric combinations, i.e., two d/T and three c/T, were examined where d and T are the impeller and tank diameters, respectively. Determination of the Metzner‐Otto constant (Ks) was undertaken. The effects of d/T, c/T, and fluid rheology on Ks, power demand, pumping, shear and viscous dissipation were analyzed. The evaluated geometric ratios and rheology do not significantly affect Ks and power demand, only the rheology had an impact on the remaining hydrodynamic parameters. Pumping was favored with the Newtonian fluid, and shear and viscous dissipation increased with the shear‐thinning fluid.
Extraction of Oil from Rosehip Seed: Kinetics, Thermodynamics, and Optimization
Authors: Milić Slavica M. , Kostić Milan D. , Milić Petar S. , Vučić Vesna M. , Arsić Aleksandra Č. , Veljković Vlada B. , Stamenković Olivera S.
Published: August 2020

Rosehip (Rosa canina L.) oil (RSO) was recovered from waste rosehip seeds by cold pressing as well as maceration and Soxhlet extraction using n‐hexane. The influence of the extraction temperature, the solvent‐to‐seed ratio (SSR), and the extraction time on RSO yield was examined for the maceration process. The extraction technique did not influence the fatty acid profile of the RSO. All process factors had a significant effect on the oil yield. The kinetics was described using the model involving instantaneous washing followed by diffusion. The RSO maceration was spontaneous, endothermic, and irreversible.
Partial least squares discrimination applied to a few samples dataset: A case for predicting the presence of pesticide in lettuce
Authors: de Souza Silvio José , Valderrama Patrícia , Consolin Filho Nelson , Pilau Eduardo Jorge , Coelho Tanamati Ailey Aparecida , Wentzell Peter D. , Março Paulo Henrique
Published: August 2020

To perform discriminant analysis through partial least squares (PLS‐DA), it is important to note that the smaller the set of samples and the higher the variable to sample ratio, the higher the chance of a too optimistic classification model. In this sense, it is necessary to use strategies to check for the possibility that the classification achieved is done by chance. In metabolomics studies, it is not uncommon to work with a reduced number of samples, in which discrimination approaches must be evaluated according to its reliability. Considering this issue, this study aimed to show a case study to deal with few samples using PLS‐DA to discriminate lettuce cultivated in the absence and presence of imidacloprid (IMI). The data were acquired by using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to a quadrupole‐time of flight mass spectrometry, and the model prediction ability was evaluated by permuting the classes. The performance of the PLS‐DA model built using all the variables reached 100% correct classification. Nonetheless, the reliability tests (Wilcoxon, sign test, and Rand t test) indicated that the model has been build choosing variables by chance. By using the variable importance in projection, it was possible to build a model with reliable specificity and sensitivity equals 1. The study showed the need to check the classification ability in PLS‐DA models through strategies such as variable selection and the permutation test in order to allow for the evaluation of the reliability of the results, even in cases in which the classification reaches 100% in the target.
A Serendipitous One‐Pot Cyanation/Hydrolysis/Enamide Formation: Direct Access to 3‐Methyleneisoindolin‐1‐ones
Authors: Banik Trisha , Kaliappan Krishna P.
Published: August 2020

A direct, one‐pot conversion of 2’‐haloacetophenones to 3‐methyleneisoindolin‐1‐one scaffolds using CuCN as the sole reagent without the need for moisture‐free or anaerobic conditions is reported. This serendipitously discovered transformation with a broad substrate scope provides a significantly different route towards these important scaffolds. The scope of the method has also been further extended towards the synthesis of three special scaffolds, which are analogous to various bio‐active drugs.
Emerging Organometallic Methods for the Synthesis of C‐Branched (Hetero)aryl, Alkenyl, and Alkyl Glycosides: C−H Functionalization and Dual Photoredox Approaches
Authors: Ghouilem Juba , de Robichon Morgane , Le Bideau Franck , Ferry Angélique , Messaoudi Samir
Published: August 2020

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalization and photoredox nickel dual catalysis have emerged as innovative and powerful avenues for the synthesis of C‐branched glycosides. These two concepts have been recently established and provide efficient and mild methods for accessing a series of valuable complex C‐branched glycosides of great interest. Herein, recent developments in the synthesis of C‐branched aryl/alkenyl/alkyl glycosides through these two approaches are highlighted.
π‐Extended Diaza[7]helicenes by Hybridization of Naphthalene Diimides and Hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronenes
Authors: Dusold Carolin , Sharapa Dmitry I. , Hampel Frank , Hirsch Andreas
Published: August 2020

The synthesis of an unprecedented, π‐extended hexabenzocorene (HBC)‐based diaza[7]helicene is presented. The target compound was synthesized by anortho‐fusion of two naphthalene diimide (NDI) units to a HBC‐skeleton. A combination of Diels–Alder and Scholl‐type oxidation reactions involving a symmetric di‐NDI‐tolane precursor were crucial for the very selective formation of the helical superstructure via a hexaphenyl‐benzene (HPB) derivative. The formation of the diaza[7]helicene moiety in the final Scholl oxidation is favoured, affording the symmetric π‐extended helicene as the major product as a pair of enantiomers. The separation of the enantiomers was successfully accomplished by HPLC involving a chiral stationary phase. The absolute configuration of the enantiomers was assigned by comparison of circular dichroism spectra with quantum mechanical calculations.
A Water‐Gated Organic Thin‐Film Transistor for Glyphosate Detection: A Comparative Study with Fluorescence Sensing
Authors: Sasaki Yui , Asano Koichiro , Minamiki Tsukuru , Zhang Zhoujie , Takizawa Shin‐ya , Kubota Riku , Minami Tsuyoshi
Published: August 2020

This work reports the design of a highly sensitive solid‐state sensor device based on a water‐gated organic thin‐film transistor (WG‐OTFT) for the selective detection of herbicide glyphosate (GlyP) in water. A competitive assay among carboxylate‐functionalized polythiophene, Cu2+, and GlyP was employed as a sensing mechanism. Molecular recognition phenomena and electrical double layer (EDL) (at the polymer/water interface) originated from the field‐effect worked cooperatively to amplify the sensitivity for GlyP. The limit of detection of WG‐OTFT (0.26 ppm) was lower than that of a fluorescence sensor chip (0.95 ppm) which is the conventional sensing method. In contrast to the previously reported insulated molecular wires to block interchain interactions, molecular aggregates under the field‐effect has shown to be effective for amplification of sensitivity through “intra”‐ and “inter”‐molecular wire effects. The opposite strategy in this study could pave the way for fully utilizing the sensing properties of polymer‐based solid‐state sensor devices.
A Reversible Hydrogen‐Bond Isomerization Triggered by an Abrupt Spin Crossover near Room Temperature
Authors: Jornet‐Mollá Verónica , Giménez‐Saiz Carlos , Yufit Dmitry S. , Howard Judith A. K. , Romero Francisco M.
Published: August 2020

The spin crossover salt [Fe(bpp)2](isonicNO)2⋅ 2.4 H2O (1⋅2.4 H2O) (bpp=2,6‐bis(pyrazol‐3‐yl)pyridine; isonicNO=isonicotinate N‐oxide anion) exhibits a very abrupt spin crossover at T1/2=274.4 K. This triggers a supramolecular linkage (H‐bond) isomerization that responds reversibly towards light irradiation or temperature change. Isotopic effects in the thermomagnetic behavior reveal the importance of hydrogen bonds in defining the magnetic state. Further, the title compound can be reversibly dehydrated to afford 1, a material that also exhibits spin crossover coupled to H‐bond isomerization, leading to strong kinetic effects in the thermomagnetic properties.