bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acetylcholine
Authors: Oliver Devyn , Francis Michael M
Published: September 2020

From the discovery of ‘Vagusstoff’ (vagus substance) came a Nobel Prize and the sprouting of many neurological breakthroughs and insights into the chemical acetylcholine. Acetylcholine (ACh), a versatile synaptic compound, is evolutionarily conserved and present in all animals. The ancient role of acetylcholine in cell–cell communication and cellular modulation was expanded in metazoans to include neuron–neuron and neuro‐muscular signalling. ACh is widely expressed, present in the central nervous system (CNS), the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and in nonneuronal cells. Deficits in ACh‐mediated processes contribute to a variety of neuromuscular and neurodegenerative diseases, including myasthenia gravis and Alzheimer disease. Nicotine in tobacco products mimics acetylcholine's actions in the brain, causing nicotine dependence in smokers. The development of new experimental tools in the mammalian nervous system and studies of conserved mechanisms in invertebrate models have enhanced our understanding of acetylcholine function.

Key Concepts

Acetylcholine is an evolutionarily conserved signalling molecule.

Acetylcholine performs diverse functions in the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system and in nonneuronal cells.

Nicotine, toxins and insecticides target parts of acetylcholine pathways.

Dysfunctions in acetylcholine signalling underlie neuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis and are associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease.

Invertebrate model systems offer experimental strengths to address lingering questions about neuronal and non‐neuronal mechanisms of acetylcholine function.
Bacterial Plasmids
Authors: Thomas Christopher M , Summers David
Published: September 2020

Plasmids are nonessential genetic elements that can maintain accessory genetic information and facilitate infectious spread of the genes they carry. They regulate their own replication and transmission and were largely responsible for the proliferation of antibiotic resistance during the second half of the twentieth century.

Key Concepts

By definition, a plasmid is an autonomously replicating nonessential genetic element.

Plasmids are classified by the relatedness of their backbone functions which are responsible for replication, stable inheritance and transfer.

All plasmids encode a mechanism that inhibits plasmid replication when its copy number rises and the genes that achieve this can be inserted into a vector that can displace the plasmid by blocking its replication.

Natural plasmids have evolved a variety of systems to ensure that they are inherited stably including addiction systems that prevent growth of bacteria that lose the plasmid.

Many plasmids can spread from one bacterium to another by a replicative transfer process that donates a copy to the new cell while leaving at least one copy in the donor cell.

Plasmids can be pictured as cargo trains with the backbone functions represented as the engines that drive the system and different mobile DNA as the trucks that can join the engine and the phenotypic markers as the cargo carried by the trucks.
Phycology
Authors: Borowitzka Michael A
Published: September 2020

Phycology is the study of algae. However, just what algae are is difficult to define, because they belong to many different and diverse taxonomic groups and include both prokaryotic and eukaryotic representatives. Broadly speaking, the algae comprise all, mainly aquatic, plants and plant‐like chlorophyll
a
‐containing organisms that can use light energy to fix carbon from atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO
2
) and evolve oxygen, but which are not specialised land plants like mosses, ferns, coniferous trees and flowering plants. This is a negative definition, but it serves its purpose. Besides being a principal source of oxygen, algae are important primary producers in many, mainly aquatic, habitats. The prokaryotic Cyanobacteria are important as nitrogen fixers, converting N
2
to organic nitrogen. The algae are the source of a number of important commercial products and molecules and are also used in wastewater treatment, as animal feed and as fertilisers.

Key Concepts

Phycology is the study of algae.

The algae are a very diverse group of plants and plant‐like organisms, but which are not specialised land plants like mosses, ferns, coniferous trees and flowering plants.

The algae include both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.

Algae are key providers of oxygen on earth and are the basis of aquatic food webs.

Algae have a wide range of commercial applications.

Endosymbiosis has played an important part in the evolution of the algae.
Synapsida (Extinct Mammal Relatives)
Authors: Sues Hans‐Dieter
Published: September 2020

In the phylogenetic system, the Synapsida include Mammalia and all other amniotes more closely related to Mammalia than to Reptilia. The most characteristic feature is the presence of a single large opening behind the orbit on either side of the skull. This opening is small in basal synapsids but increases in size in later, more derived forms including mammals. Nonmammalian synapsids form an extensive series of taxa that are successively more closely related to mammals and thus are now often referred to as stem‐mammals or ancient mammal relatives. They range from the Late Carboniferous to the Early Cretaceous. Crown‐group mammals (which include all present‐day mammals) are first known from the Middle Jurassic. Synapsida and Reptilia are now considered two entirely distinct evolutionary lineages of Amniota with a common ancestor in the Carboniferous.

Key Concepts

Synapsida is one of the two principal groups of Amniota.

Synapsida comprises mammals and all extinct taxa more closely related to mammals than to reptiles including birds.

Synapsids form a distinct evolutionary lineage from reptiles.

There was a gradual evolutionary acquisition of mammal‐like features during synapsid evolution.

The ear bones of mammals developed from the bones at the back of the lower jaw in their antecedents.
Taste: Cellular Basis
Authors: Roper Stephen D
Published: September 2020

Taste buds are the peripheral end organs of the gustatory system. Several thousand of these sensory organs are distributed throughout the oral cavity. Each taste bud consists of up to 100 cells that detect food chemicals and transmit this information to sensory afferent fibres that connect taste buds to the hindbrain. Individual taste buds detect many compounds, including those that elicit sweet, salty, bitter, sour, umami and perhaps other perceptions. There is no taste map on the tongue. Sensory receptor cells in taste buds transduce taste stimuli using G protein‐coupled taste receptors and ion channels. Gustatory stimulation causes the taste bud cells to secrete neurotransmitters, including ATP and serotonin, that excite sensory afferent fibres as well as mediate cell–cell (paracrine) interactions within a taste bud. Taste information travels from the hindbrain to cortical centres where the signals are integrated with olfaction to generate perception of flavours.

Key Concepts

Taste buds respond to chemical compounds found in foods and beverages.

Taste buds consist of many cells that are dedicated to sensing multiple tastes, including sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami.

There is no taste map on the tongue.

Taste cells comprise a renewing cell population with taste cells having lifespans of 8–12 days.

There are 4 major types of cells in taste buds, each having a distinct function.

Gustatory stimulation causes taste bud cells to secrete ATP and serotonin.

Taste‐evoked ATP release is highly unusual: it is nonvesicular and involves secretion through large‐pore ion channels.

Cells within a taste bud communicate with each other during taste stimulation via paracrine synaptic interactions.

Gustatory signals transmitted to the brain cortex converge there with olfactory input to generate flavours.
Cell‐Free Vascular Grafts That Grow with the Host
Authors: Nasiri Bita , Row Sindhu , Smith Randall J. , Swartz Daniel D. , Andreadis Stelios T.
Published: September 2020

Cell‐free small diameter vascular grafts, based on small intestinal submucosa functionalized with heparin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are manufactured and implanted successfully into the arterial system of neonatal lambs, where they remain patent and grow in size with the host to a similar extent and with similar rate as native arteries. Acellular tissue engineered vessels (A‐TEVs) integrate seamlessly into the native vasculature and develop confluent, functional endothelium that affords patency. The medial layer is infiltrated by smooth muscle cells, shows no signs of calcification, and develops contractile function. The vascular wall undergoes remarkable extracellular matrix remodeling exhibiting elastin fibers and even inner elastic lamina within six months. Taken together, the results suggest that VEGF‐based A‐TEVs may be suitable for treatment of congenital heart disorders to alleviate the need for repeated surgeries, which are currently standard practice.
Fundamentals and Applications of FluidFM Technology in Single‐Cell Studies
Authors: Saha Prithwidip , Duanis‐Assaf Tal , Reches Meital
Published: September 2020

This review describes the potential of FluidFM technology and its implementation in studying the interface between a single cell (prokaryote or eukaryote) and a surface or a surrounding area. A combination of microfluidics with conventional atomic force microscope (AFM) makes this platform efficient to address challenges associated with various biomolecular systems and biophysical activities down to single‐cell levels. Upon regulating the pressure through a microchanneled cantilever via a pressure controller, a wide range of studies are feasible. These include isolating and displacing a single living cell to measure the cell‐substrate and intercellular adhesion forces, intracellular injection of biomolecules as drug delivery systems, extraction of cellular fluid for downstream analyses, and characterization of cell structures to obtain the mechanical properties. For single‐cell adhesion experiments, the irreversible chemical‐based cell immobolization in conventional AFM has been replaced with the reversible pressure‐controlled approach in this platform; this not only reduces the experiment time—it also helps in performing serial and rapid measurement with improved statistics. This approach also ensures the retention of cell viability after each experiment.
Surface Patterning of Hydrogel Biomaterials to Probe and Direct Cell–Matrix Interactions
Authors: Munoz‐Robles Brizzia G. , Kopyeva Irina , DeForest Cole A.
Published: September 2020

Due to their mechanical and structural similarity to native tissues, hydrogel biomaterials have gained tremendous popularity for applications in 3D tissue culture, therapeutic screening, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. Recent advances in pre‐ and post‐synthetic processing have afforded anisotropic manipulation of the biochemical, mechanical, and topographical properties of biocompatible gels, increasingly in a dynamic and heterogeneous fashion that mimics natural processes in vivo. Herein, the current state of hydrogel surface patterning to investigate cellular interactions with the surrounding matrix is reviewed, both in techniques utilized and biological findings explored, and the perspective on proposed future directions for the field is offered.
α‐Funktionalisierung von Ketonen durch metallfreie elektrophile Aktivierung
Authors: Zawodny Wojciech , Teskey Christopher J. , Mishevska Magdalena , Völkl Martin , Maryasin Boris , González Leticia , Maulide Nuno
Published: September 2020

Die durch Trifluormethansulfonsäureanhydrid vermittelte Aktivierung von Acetophenon führt zu außerordentlich elektrophilen Intermediaten, welche eine Vielzahl von Transformationen mit Nukleophilen eingehen können. Diese elektrophile Ketonaktivierung ermöglicht den Zugang zu α‐arylierten und α‐oxyaminierten Acetophenonen unter metallfreien Bedingungen in mittleren bis ausgezeichneten Ausbeuten und erweitert die Möglichkeiten zur Synthese von arylierten Morpholinen durch die Erzeugung von Vinylsulfoniumsalzen. Die Untersuchung der Reaktion am Computer bestätigte zudem das vorübergehende Vorhandensein von reaktiven Intermediaten, welche aus Vinyltrifluormethansulfonaten (Vinyltriflaten) enstehen, und die Rolle der Sauerstoffatome, welche in para‐Position des aromatischen Rings stehend diese stabilisieren.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Post‐Synthetic Modification of Interlocked Molecules
Authors: Waelès Philip , Gauthier Maxime , Coutrot Frédéric
Published: September 2020

Several strategies have been successfully utilised to obtain a wide range of interlocked molecules. However, some interlocked compounds are still not obtained directly and/or efficiently from non‐interlocked components because the requisites for self‐assembly cannot always be enforced. To circumvent such a synthetic problem, a strategy that consists of synthesizing an isolable and storable interlocked building block in a step that precedes its modification is an appealing chemical route to more sophisticated interlocked molecules. Synthetic opportunities and challenges are closely linked to the fact that the mechanical bond might greatly affect the reactivity of a functionality of the encircled axle, but that the interlocked architecture needs to be preserved during the synthesis. Hence, the mechanical bond plays a fundamental role in the strategy employed. This Review focuses on the challenging post‐synthetic modifications of interlocked molecules, sometimes through cleavage of the axle's main chain, but always with conservation of the mechanical bond.
Nanomotors Sense Local Physicochemical Heterogeneities in Tumor Microenvironments**
Authors: Dasgupta Debayan , Pally Dharma , Saini Deepak K. , Bhat Ramray , Ghosh Ambarish
Published: September 2020

The invasion of cancer is brought about by continuous interaction of malignant cells with their surrounding tissue microenvironment. Investigating the remodeling of local extracellular matrix (ECM) by invading cells can thus provide fundamental insights into the dynamics of cancer progression. In this paper, we use an active untethered nanomechanical tool, realized as magnetically driven nanomotors, to locally probe a 3D tissue culture environment. We observed that nanomotors preferentially adhere to the cancer‐proximal ECM and magnitude of the adhesive force increased with cell lines of higher metastatic ability. We experimentally confirmed that sialic acid linkage specific to cancer‐secreted ECM makes it differently charged, which causes this adhesion. In an assay consisting of both cancerous and non‐cancerous epithelia, that mimics the in vivo histopathological milieu of a malignant breast tumor, we find that nanomotors preferentially decorate the region around the cancer cells.
Closed Shell Iron(IV) Oxo Complex with an Fe–O Triple Bond: Computational Design, Synthesis, and Reactivity
Authors: Andris Erik , Segers Koen , Mehara Jaya , Rulíšek Lubomír , Roithová Jana
Published: September 2020

Iron(IV)‐oxo intermediates in nature contain two unpaired electrons in the Fe–O antibonding orbitals, which are thought to contribute to their high reactivity. To challenge this hypothesis, we designed and synthesized closed‐shell singlet iron(IV) oxo complex [(quinisox)Fe(O)]+ (1+; quinisox‐H=(N‐(2‐(2‐isoxazoline‐3‐yl)phenyl)quinoline‐8‐carboxamide). We identified the quinisox ligand by DFT computational screening out of over 450 candidates. After the ligand synthesis, we detected 1+ in the gas phase and confirmed its spin state by visible and infrared photodissociation spectroscopy (IRPD). The Fe–O stretching frequency in 1+ is 960.5 cm−1, consistent with an Fe–O triple bond, which was also confirmed by multireference calculations. The unprecedented bond strength is accompanied by high gas‐phase reactivity of 1+ in oxygen atom transfer (OAT) and in proton‐coupled electron transfer reactions. This challenges the current view of the spin‐state driven reactivity of the Fe–O complexes.
DNA Reaction–Diffusion Attractor Patterns
Authors: Dorsey Phillip James , Scalise Dominic , Schulman Rebecca
Published: September 2020

Living systems can form and recover complex chemical patterns with precisely sized features in the ranges of tens or hundreds of microns. We show how designed reaction–diffusion processes can likewise produce precise patterns, termed attractor patterns, that reform their precise shape after being perturbed. We use oligonucleotide reaction networks, photolithography, and microfluidic delivery to form precisely controlled attractor patterns and study the responses of these patterns to different localized perturbations. Linear and “hill”‐shaped patterns formed and stabilized into shapes and at time scales consistent with reaction–diffusion models. When patterns were perturbed in particular locations with UV light, they reliably reformed their steady‐state profiles. Recovery also occurred after repeated perturbations. By designing the far‐from‐equilibrium dynamics of a chemical system, this study shows how it is possible to design spatial patterns of molecules that are sustained and regenerated by continually evolving towards a specific steady state configuration.
Generation of Glycosyl Radicals from Glycosyl Sulfoxides and Its Use in the Synthesis ofC‐linked Glycoconjugates
Authors: Shang Weidong , Su Sheng‐Nan , Shi Rong , Mou Ze‐Dong , Yu Guo‐Qiang , Zhang Xia , Niu Dawen
Published: September 2020

We here report glycosyl sulfoxides appended with an aryl iodide moiety as readily available, air and moisture stable precursors to glycosyl radicals. These glycosyl sulfoxides could be converted to glycosyl radicals by way of a rapid and efficient intramolecular radical substitution event. The use of this type of precursors enabled the synthesis of various complexC‐linked glycoconjugates under mild conditions. This reaction could be performed in aqueous media and is amenable to the synthesis of glycopeptidomimetics and carbohydrate‐DNA conjugates.
Synthetisch biologisch getriebene Biosynthese von unnatürlichen Tropolon‐Sesquiterpenoiden
Authors: Schotte Carsten , Li Lei , Wibberg Daniel , Kalinowski Jörn , Cox Russell J.
Published: September 2020

Tropolon‐Sesquiterpenoide (TS) sind eine faszinierende Familie biologisch aktiver pilzlicher Meroterpenoide, die durch eine einzigartige intermolekulare Hetero‐Diels‐Alder (hDA)‐Reaktion zwischen Humulen und Tropolonen entstehen. Hier berichten wir über die kombinatorische Biosynthese einer Reihe beispielloser Analoga von Pycnidione 1 und Xenovulene A 2. In einem systematischen auf synthetischer Biologie basierendem Ansatz haben wir Gene aus drei Biosynthesegenclustern (Pycnidione 1, Xenovulene A 2 und Eupenifeldin 3) im pilzlichen Wirt Aspergillus oryzae NSAR1 rekombiniert. Das rationale Design der rekonstituierten Biosynthesewege ermöglichte die Kontrolle über die Anzahl der stattfindenden hDA‐Reaktionen, die chemische Natur der kondensierten Polyketideinheit (Tropolono‐ vs. Monobenzopyranyl) und den Hydroxylierungsgrad. Die Bildung unerwarteter Monobenzopyranylsesquiterpenoide wurde mithilfe von Isotopenfütterungsstudien untersucht und führte zur Entdeckung einer neuen und höchst ungewöhnlichen oxidativen Ringkontraktion.
Discovering the Elusive Global Minimum in a Ternary Chiral Cluster: Rotational Spectra of Propylene Oxide Trimer
Authors: Xie Fan , Fusè Marco , Hazrah Arsh S. , Jäger Wolfgang , Barone Vincenzo , Xu Yunjie
Published: September 2020

The chirality controlled conformational landscape of the trimer of propylene oxide (PO), a prototypical chiral molecule, was investigated using rotational spectroscopy and a range of theoretical tools for conformational searches and for evaluating vibrational contributions to effective structures. Two sets of homochiral (PO)3 rotational transitions were assigned and the associated conformers identified with theoretical support. One set of heterochiral (PO)3 transitions was assigned, but no structures generated by one of the latest, advanced conformational search codes could account for them. With the aid of a Python program, the carbon atom backbone and then the heterochiral (PO)3 structure were generated using 13C isotopic data. Excellent agreement between theoretical and experimental rotational constants and relative dipole moment components of all three conformers was achieved, especially after applying vibrational corrections to the rotational constants.
A Toroidal Zr70 Oxysulfate Cluster and Its Diverse Packing Structures
Authors: Øien‐Ødegaard Sigurd , Bazioti Calliope , Redekop Evgeniy A. , Prytz Øystein , Lillerud Karl Petter , Olsbye Unni
Published: September 2020

Herein, we report the discovery of a toroidal inorganic cluster of zirconium(IV) oxysulfate of unprecedented size with the formula Zr70(SO4)58(O/OH)146⋅x(H2O) (Zr70), which displays different packing of ring units and thus several polymorphic crystal structures. The ring measures over 3 nm across, has an inner cavity of 1 nm and displays a pseudo‐10‐fold rotational symmetry of Zr6 octahedra bridged by an additional Zr in the outer rim of the ring. Depending on the co‐crystallizing species, the rings form various crystalline phases in which the torus units are connected in extended chain and network structures. One phase, in which the ring units are arranged in layers and form one‐dimensional channels, displays high permanent porosity (BET surface area: 241 m2 g−1), and thus demonstrates a functional property for potential use in, for example, adsorption or heterogeneous catalysis.
Atropisomeric Hydrogen Bonding Control for CO2 Binding and Enhancement of Electrocatalytic Reduction at Iron Porphyrins
Authors: Gotico Philipp , Roupnel Loïc , Guillot Regis , Sircoglou Marie , Leibl Winfried , Halime Zakaria , Aukauloo Ally
Published: September 2020

The manipulation of the second coordination sphere for improving the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction has led to breakthroughs with hydrogen bonding, local proton source, or electrostatic effects. We have developed two atropisomers of an iron porphyrin complex with two urea functions acting as multiple hydrogen‐bonding tweezers to lock the metal‐bound CO2 in a similar fashion found in the carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (CODH) enzyme. The αα topological isomer with the two urea groups on the same side of the porphyrin provides a stronger binding affinity to tether the incoming CO2 in comparison to the αβ disposition. However, the electrocatalytic activity of the αβ atropisomer outperforms its congener with one of the highest reported turnover frequencies at low overpotential. The strong H/D kinetic isotope effect (KIE) observed for the αα system indicates the existence of a tight water hydrogen‐bonding network for proton delivery which is disrupted by addition of an acid source. The small H/D KIE for the αβ isomer and the enhanced electrocatalytic performance on addition of stronger acid indicate the free access of protons to the bound CO2 on the opposite side of the urea arm.
Tailoring Crystal Facets of Metal–Organic Layers to Enhance Photocatalytic Activity for CO2 Reduction
Authors: Yang Wei , Wang Hong‐Juan , Liu Rui‐Rui , Wang Jia‐Wei , Zhang Chao , Li Chao , Zhong Di‐Chang , Lu Tong‐Bu
Published: September 2020

It is common that different crystal facets in metal and metal oxide nanocrystals display different catalytic performances, whereas such phenomena have been rarely documented in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). Herein, we demonstrate for the first time that a nickel metal–organic layer (MOL) exposing rich (100) crystal facets (Ni‐MOL‐100) shows a much higher photocatalytic CO2‐to‐CO activity than the one exposing rich (010) crystal facets (Ni‐MOL‐010) and its bulky counterpart (bulky Ni‐MOF), with a catalytic activity up to 2.5 and 4.6 times more active than Ni‐MOL‐010 and bulky Ni‐MOF, respectively. Theoretical studies reveal that the two coordinatively unsaturated NiII ions with a close distance of 3.50 Å on the surface of Ni‐MOL‐100 enables synergistic catalysis, leading to more favorable energetics in CO2 reduction than that of Ni‐MOL‐010.
Enantioselective Total Synthesis of Andrographolide and 14‐Hydroxy‐Colladonin: Carbonyl Reductive Coupling and trans‐Decalin Formation by Hydrogen Transfer
Authors: Yang Lin , Wurm Thomas , Sharma Poudel Binit , Krische Michael J.
Published: September 2020

An enantioselective total synthesis of the labdane diterpene andrographolide, the bitter principle of the herb Andrographis paniculata (known as “King of Bitters”), was accomplished in 14 steps (LLS). Key transformations include iridium‐catalyzed carbonyl reductive coupling to form the quaternary C4 stereocenter, diastereoselective alkene reduction to establish the trans‐decalin ring, and carbonylative lactonization to install the α‐alkylidene‐β‐hydroxy‐γ‐butyrolactone.
Silver Single Atom in Carbon Nitride Catalyst for Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Jiang Xun‐Heng , Zhang Long‐Shuai , Liu Hai‐Yan , Wu Dai‐She , Wu Fei‐Yao , Tian Lei , Liu Ling‐Ling , Zou Jian‐Ping , Luo Sheng‐Lian , Chen Bing‐Bing
Published: September 2020

Single atom catalysts (SACs) with the maximized metal atom efficiency have sparked great attention. However, it is challenging to obtain SACs with high metal loading, high catalytic activity, and good stability. Herein, we demonstrate a new strategy to develop a highly active and stable Ag single atom in carbon nitride (Ag‐N2C2/CN) catalyst with a unique coordination. The Ag atomic dispersion and Ag‐N2C2 configuration have been identified by aberration‐correction high‐angle‐annular‐dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (AC‐HAADF‐STEM) and extended X‐ray absorption. Experiments and DFT calculations further verify that Ag‐N2C2 can reduce the H2 evolution barrier, expand the light absorption range, and improve the charge transfer of CN. As a result, the Ag‐N2C2/CN catalyst exhibits much better H2 evolution activity than the N‐coordinated Ag single atom in CN (Ag‐N4/CN), and is even superior to the Pt nanoparticle‐loaded CN (PtNP/CN). This work provides a new idea for the design and synthesis of SACs with novel configurations and excellent catalytic activity and durability.
Chromophore‐Assisted Proximity Labeling of DNA Reveals Chromosomal Organization in Living Cells
Authors: Ding Tao , Zhu Liyuan , Fang Yuxin , Liu Yangluorong , Tang Wei , Zou Peng
Published: September 2020

The spatial arrangement of chromosome within the nucleus is linked to genome function and gene expression regulation. Existing genome‐wide mapping methods often rely on chemically crosslinking DNA with protein baits, which raises concerns of artifacts being introduced during cell fixation. By genetically targeting a photosensitizer protein to specific subnuclear locations, we achieved blue‐light‐activated labeling of local DNA with a bioorthogonal functional handle for affinity purification and sequence identification through next‐generation sequencing. When applied to the nuclear lamina in human embryonic kidney 293T cells, it revealed lamina‐associated domains (LADs) that cover 37.6 % of the genome. These LADs overlap with heterochromatin hallmarks and are depleted with CpG islands. This simple labeling method avoids the harsh treatment of chemical crosslinking and is generally applicable to the genome‐wide high‐resolution mapping of the spatial chromosome organization in living cells.
Cross‐Coupling between Hydrazine and Aryl Halides with Hydroxide Base at Low Loadings of Palladium by Rate‐Determining Deprotonation of Bound Hydrazine
Authors: Wang Justin Y. , Choi Kyoungmin , Zuend Stephan J. , Borate Kailaskumar , Shinde Harish , Goetz Roland , Hartwig John F.
Published: September 2020

Reported here is the Pd‐catalyzed C–N coupling of hydrazine with (hetero)aryl chlorides and bromides to form aryl hydrazines with catalyst loadings as low as 100 ppm of Pd and KOH as base. Mechanistic studies revealed two catalyst resting states: an arylpalladium(II) hydroxide and arylpalladium(II) chloride. These compounds are present in two interconnected catalytic cycles and react with hydrazine and base or hydrazine alone to give the product. The selectivity of the hydroxide complex with hydrazine to form aryl over diaryl hydrazine was lower than that of the chloride complex, as well as the catalytic reaction. In contrast, the selectivity of the chloride complex closely matched that of the catalytic reaction, indicating that the aryl hydrazine is derived from this complex. Kinetic studies showed that the coupling process occurs by rate‐limiting deprotonation of a hydrazine‐bound arylpalladium(II) chloride complex to give an arylpalladium(II) hydrazido complex.
Synthesis and Properties of a Cyclohexa‐2,7‐anthrylene Ethynylene Derivative
Authors: Matsuki Hironori , Okubo Keisuke , Takaki Yuta , Niihori Yoshiki , Mitsui Masaaki , Kayahara Eiichi , Yamago Shigeru , Kobayashi Kenji
Published: September 2020

The synthesis of a cyclohexa‐2,7‐(4,5‐diaryl)anthrylene ethynylene (1) was achieved for the first time by using 1,8‐diaryl‐3,6‐diborylanthracene and 1,8‐diaryl‐3,6‐diiodoanthracene as key synthetic intermediates. Macrocycle 1 possesses a planar conformation of approximately D6h symmetry, because of the triple‐bond linker between the anthracene units at the 2,7‐positions. It was confirmed that macrocycle 1, bearing bulky substituents at the outer peripheral positions, behaves as a monomeric form in solution without π‐stacking self‐association. Macrocycle 1 has an inner‐cavity size that allows specific inclusion of [9]cycloparaphenylene ([9]CPP), but not [8]CPP or [10]CPP, through an aromatic edge‐to‐face CH‐π interaction.
Construction of inter‐chain polymers and the investigation into Friedel–Crafts alkylation of styrene–acrylonitrile copolymers with chloroprene rubber and characterization
Authors: Wei Xuefeng , Zhang Pengcheng , Cui Shen , Che Wei , Zhao Jiruo , Feng Ying
Published: September 2020

In this study, the Friedel–Crafts alkylation was realized in a solvent free processing of styrene–acrylonitrile copolymers/chloroprene rubber (SAN/CR) molten blending which contributes the formation of SAN‐co‐CR co‐polymers and improved compatibility between SAN and CR. The properties of several Lewis acid compounds were tested as catalysts among which AlCl3 was the most efficient. The effects of blending temperature and time on the co‐polymer formation in situ were also investigated. The methodology of weighing and Fourier transform infrared analyses indicated that the reaction degree increases with increasing blending temperature and time in the ranges of this study. The micro‐structures and reaction mechanisms of the resulted SAN‐co‐CR polymers and morphological structures of SAN/CR/AlCl3 blends were characterized as well by differential scanning calorimetry, FT‐IR spectra, GPC and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the inter‐facial reactions between SAN and CR have been effectively improved. Moreover, the inter‐chain structure of SAN‐co‐CR co‐polymers was proposed which is different from general grafting or blocking co‐polymers.
Synthesis and characterization of polypropylene glycol‐based novel organogels as effective materials for the recovery of organic solvents
Authors: Erdem Ahmet
Published: September 2020

In this study, novel hydrophobic organogels were successfully prepared via the aza‐Michael addition reaction method using diamino terminated polypropylene glycol and diphenylmethane bismaleimide as monomers, in the presence of a tri‐amino functional polypropylene glycol as a crosslinking agent. The chemical structures, surface morphology, and thermal stability of the synthesized organogels were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and solid‐state CPMAS 13C‐NMR, scanning electron microscope, and thermal gravimetric analysis technique, respectively. The effects of various parameters, such as the monomer ratio, amount of crosslinker, and as well as swelling properties of organogels by solvent absorption tests were studied. According to obtained results, the solvent uptake capacity increased with decreasing crosslinker ratio up to 30 wt%. The maximum solvent absorbency of the synthesized organogels were determined as 730%, 504%, 271%, 224%, 95%, and 17% for dichloromethane, tetrahydrofuran, benzene, acetone, gasoline and diesel oil, under optimum conditions, respectively. In addition, reusability of the organogels was evaluated for 10 cycles, depicting no significant loss in absorbance capacity. The fabricated organogels showed high solvent absorption efficiency with prospects as suitable material for the recovery of a wide range of organic solvents.
Dreams, djinn, and the evil eye: Interpreting the supernatural idiom of Yemenite Jewish immigration
Authors: Buse William
Published: September 2020

The lived experiences of immigration and transitional identity increasingly emerge as social challenges that urgently require greater understanding. With the mass emigration of Yemenite Jews out of Yemen to Israel undertaken 70 years ago, we now have an opportunity to assess the long‐term effects of this social phenomenon. A focus on the idiosyncratic supernatural productions of a representative sample of this population enable an innovative analysis through the application of tools from anthropology, psychology, and psychoanalysis. The proposed methods are a necessary supplement, and corrective, to those research projects that are solely dependent on the conscious, cognitively oriented participation of informants.
Development of novel indole‐linked pyrazoles as anticonvulsant agents: A molecular hybridization approach
Authors: Kerzare Deweshri R. , Menghani Sunil S. , Rarokar Nilesh R. , Khedekar Pramod B.
Published: September 2020

A series of 3‐{2‐[1‐acetyl‐5‐(substitutedphenyl)‐4,5‐dihydropyrazol‐3‐yl]hydrazinylidene}‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐indol‐2‐ones 24–43 was synthesized using an appropriate synthetic route and evaluated experimentally by the maximal electroshock test. These compounds were evaluated for antidepressant and antianxiety activities. The most active compound, 3‐{2‐[1‐acetyl‐5‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐4,5‐dihydropyrazol‐3‐yl]hydrazinylidene}‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐indol‐2‐one 25, exhibited an ED50 of 13.19 mmol/kg, a TD50 of 43.49 mmol/kg, and a high protective index of 3.29, compared with the standard drug diazepam. To get insights into the intermolecular interactions, molecular docking studies were performed at the active site of the GABAA receptor and the MAO‐A enzyme. Molecular docking studies are also in agreement with the pharmacological evaluation with potent compounds, exhibiting docking scores of −1.5180 and 0.7458 for the GABAA receptor and MAO‐A, respectively. The 3D‐QSAR analysis was carried out by Vlife MDS engine 4.3.1, and a statistically reliable model with good predictive power (r2 = 0.7523, q2 = 0.3773) was achieved. The 3D‐QSAR plots gave insights into the structure–activity relationship of these compounds, which may aid in the design of potent benzopyrrole derivatives as anticonvulsant agents. So, our research can make a great impact on those medicinal chemists who work on the development of anticonvulsant agents.
Isolated AGNs NGC 5347, ESO 438‐009, MCG‐02‐04‐090, and J11366‐6002: Swift and NuSTAR joined view1
Authors: Vasylenko Anatoliy A. , Vavilova Irina B. , Pulatova Nadiia G.
Published: September 2020

We present the spectral analysis with the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) of four isolated galaxies with active galactic nuclei selected from the 2MIG catalogue: NGC 5347, ESO 438‐009, MCG‐02‐09‐040, and IGR J11366‐6002. We also used the Swift/Burst Alert Telescope (BAT) data up to ∼150 keV for MCG 02‐09‐040, ESO 438‐009, and IGR J11366‐6002 as well as the Swift/XRT data in 0.3–10 keV energy band for NGC 5347, ESO 438‐009, and IGR J11366‐6002. All the sources appear to have the reflected spectrum component with different reflection fractions in addition to the primary power‐law continuum. We found that power‐law indices for these sources lie between 1.6 and 1.8. The spectra of two sources, NGC 5347 and MCG‐02‐09‐040, show the Fe Kα emission line. For both of these sources, the Fe Kα lines have a significant value of EW ∼1 keV. The X‐ray spectrum of NGC 5347 is best fitted by a pure reflection model with Ecut ∼ 117 keV and without the presence of any additional primary power‐law component. We also found that the X‐ray spectrum of MCG‐02‐09‐040 shows the presence of heavy neutral obscuration of NH ∼ 1024 cm−2. However, this provides a non‐physical value of reflection in the case with fitting by a simple reflection model. A more appropriate fit is obtained with adopting the physical Monte Carlo‐based model as BNTorus. It allowed us to determine the absorption value of NH ∼ 1.04 × 1024 cm−2 and reasonable power‐law index of Γ ≈ 1.63. Results for MCG‐02‐09‐040 are presented for the first time.
Lack of access to diverse talent is biggest impediment to board diversification
Authors: Dodds Amy
Published: September 2020

It is well known that board diversity has numerous benefits—unique viewpoints, stronger financial performance and better access to the community are just a few examples. However, many nonprofits report that they have yet to achieve the diverse representation on their boards they desire because of recruitment challenges. These are the findings from CariClub (cariclub.com), a company that pairs young professionals with nonprofits and foundations, which recently released the results of its first Accessing Diverse Board Candidates survey. The analysis surveyed 1,000 U.S. nonprofits to have a better understanding of how severe the lack of board diversification is, the reasons for the lack of diversity and what boards are willing to do to rectify the situation.
The Effects of Antioxidant Vitamins on Proinflammatory Cytokines and Some Biochemical Parameters of Power Plant Workers: A Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Bagheri Hosseinabadi Majid , Khanjani Narges , Norouzi Pirasteh , Faghihi‐Zarandi Ali , Darban‐Sarokhalil Davood , Khoramrooz Seyed Sajjad , Mirbadie Seyed Reza , Mirzaii Mehdi
Published: September 2020

Some epidemiological studies have suggested that exposure to extremely low‐frequency magnetic fields (ELF‐MFs) can affect the immune system. This study aimed to investigate the effects of antioxidant vitamin consumption on proinflammatory cytokines and biochemical parameters changes. In this randomized, controlled double‐blinded trial study, power plant workers exposed to ELF‐MFs were enrolled based on inclusion criteria. Ninety‐one eligible subjects were randomly divided into four groups: the first group (400 units of vitamin E/day), second group (1,000 mg of vitamin C/day), third group (400 units of vitamin E and 1,000 mg of vitamin C/day), and control group. The intervention was conducted for 3 months. Proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and biochemical parameters (fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL‐c], total protein, and albumin) were measured among the participants’ serums, before and after the intervention. The mean level of IL‐6 in all vitamin‐receiving groups, the mean level of IL‐1β in vitamin C and E&C groups, and the mean level of TNF‐α in the vitamin C group, decreased significantly after intervention. The arithmetic means of the effect sizes for IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α were 0.71, 0.57, and 0.2, respectively. The level of HDL‐c in the vitamin E and vitamin E&C groups and the level of triglyceride in the vitamin C group significantly increased after the intervention. Taking antioxidant vitamins can prevent an increase of proinflammatory cytokines induced by prolonged exposure to ELF‐MFs. Bioelectromagnetics. 2021;42:18–26. © 2020 Bioelectromagnetics Society
A Board Member's Work in Dismantling Systemic Racism
Authors: Elsbernd Cindy
Published: September 2020

Cindy Elsbernd is a governance and leadership coach for Emendable Consulting, LLC. She served two 4‐year terms on the Des Moines Public Schools Board of Directors in Des Moines, Iowa, where she was a board officer for six of those eight years. She is a member of the Council for Great City Schools' “Team Rogue,” a group of school board members and superintendents whose collective research and experience resulted in the development of the Student Outcomes Focused Governance© (SOFG) framework. She is a provisionally certified SOFG Coach and a graduate of Govern for Impact's Policy Governance© Proficiency Program. In this article, she discusses the examination of “white privilege” as the work of boards—white board members in particular—in dismantling systems that perpetuate oppression, suppression, and exclusion; and in developing policy and procedure that create organizational climate and culture for unconditional inclusion. She will be offering workshops for exploring white privilege later this fall.
Anatomical guide for botulinum neurotoxin injection: Application to cosmetic shoulder contouring, pain syndromes, and cervical dystonia
Authors: Yi Kyu‐Ho , Lee Hyung‐Jin , Choi You‐Jin , Lee Kangwoo , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: September 2020

Introduction

This study proposes an ideal botulinum toxin injection point of the trapezius muscle for shoulder line contouring, pain management, and functional impairment. This study describes the intramuscular nerve branching in the trapezius muscle, providing essential information for botulinum neurotoxin injection.

Method

A modified Sihler's method was performed on the trapezius muscles (16 specimens). The intramuscular arborization areas were elucidated regarding the external occipital protuberance superiorly, spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra inferiorly and acromion of the scapula.

Result

The intramuscular neural distribution for the superior, middle, and inferior regions of the trapezius muscle had the greatest arborized patterns in the horizontal 1/5–2/5 and vertical 2/10–4/10 sections, the horizontal 1/5–3/5 and vertical 4/10–5/10 sections, and the horizontal 1/5–2/5 and vertical 5/10–7/10 sections, respectively.

Discussion

We propose that BoNT treatments should be directed to the horizontal 1/5–2/5 and vertical 2/10–4/10 sections of the superior trapezius, the horizontal 1/5–3/5 and vertical 4/10–5/10 sections of the middle trapezius and the horizontal 1/5–2/5 and vertical 5/10–7/10 sections of the inferior trapezius. Additionally, injective treatment at the horizontal 2/5–3/5 and vertical 2/10–4/10 nerve entry points should be avoided to prevent nerve trunk damage causing paralysis. According to our guidelines, clinicians can ensure minimal dose injections and fewer adverse effects in botulinum neurotoxin injective treatment.
Context is key: Understanding the regulation, functional control, and activities of the p53 tumour suppressor
Authors: Moxley Anne H. , Reisman David
Published: September 2020

The p53 tumour suppressor is considered one of the most critical genes in cancer biology. By upregulating apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and DNA damage repair in normal cells, p53 prevents the propagation of cells with tumorigenic potential; therefore, mutations in p53 are associated with carcinogenic transformation and can be accompanied by the accumulation of a novel gain‐of‐function oncogenic protein, mutant p53. Although p53 is most often understood to utilize context‐dependent post‐translational modifications to achieve regulation of its many target genes, recent research has also sought to define other mechanisms of regulating p53 gene expression prior to translation and to understand how this alternative regulation of p53 may influence target gene expression and cellular outcome. This review attempts to summarize what is known about p53 regulation at the transcriptional, post‐transcriptional, and post‐translational levels while paying special attention to the ways in which context may influence p53 regulation and subsequent regulation of its target genes.
Giant laryngeal granuloma developed after a severely stressful life event
Authors: Ettori Jacopo , D'Onghia Alessandra , Pignataro Lorenzo , Cantarella Giovanna
Published: September 2020

Laryngeal granulomas are ascribed to laryngopharyngeal reflux, voice abuse, and endotracheal intubation, but their pathogenesis is controversial. A recurrent giant granuloma causing dyspnea occurred after a severe psychological stress and was successfully treated by surgery, steroid injection, and psychotherapy. This case highlights the role of psychological stress in granulomas pathogenesis.
Catalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Enhancement on Vertically Aligned MoS2 by Synergistic Addition of Silver and Palladium
Authors: Gerlitz Itai , Fiegenbaum‐Raz Mor , Bar‐Sadan Maya , Cohen Hagai , Ismach Ariel , Rosen Brian A.
Published: September 2020

Hybrid electrodes containing MoS2 with metals active for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are highly desirable as they can provide a cost‐effective and active route for producing hydrogen. It is well known that the technique used to facilitate such hybrid formation plays a critical role in the activity and stability of the electrode. Here we utilized a novel method for hybridization based on electron‐beam deposition of Ag, Pd, and Mo to make precursor films which, upon sulfurization, formed hybrid electrodes based on vertically aligned molybdenum disulfide (VA‐MoS2). We further modified the surface of these electrodes by exploiting galvanic replacement of palladium. Surprisingly, both hybridization techniques showed a synergistic effect between Pd and Ag, and enhanced activity was enabled by the presence of both metals. XPS, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and FIB‐EM were used to explore the root cause of the synergy. It appears that enhanced performance is based partially on the mutual solubility of Pd−Ag and the facile diffusion of Ag through the MoS2 film. Ag/VA‐MoS2 modified by galvanic replacement provided 10 mA/cm2 at 210 mV of overpotential and was stable for up to 4000 cycles, surpassing the stability of previously reported Pd/MoS2 hybrids, making these techniques of interest for future generations of hybrid HER electrodes based on MoS2.
Synthetically Versatile Nitrogen Acyclic Carbene Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Rúbio Guilherme M. D. M. , Keppler Bernhard K. , Chin Jia Min , Reithofer Michael R.
Published: September 2020

N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have received significant attention as gold nanoparticle stabilizers due to their strong binding affinity towards gold. However, their tunability is limited by the difficulty in obtaining nonsymmetric NHCs. In this regard, N‐acyclic carbenes (NACs) are attractive alternatives due to their high synthetic versatility, allowing easy tuning of their steric and electronic properties towards specific applications. This work reports the first series of stable and monodisperse NAC‐functionalized gold nanoparticles. These particles with sizes ranging 3.8 to 11.6 nm were characterized using NMR, UV/Vis and TEM. The nanoparticles display good stability at elevated temperatures and for extended periods both dried or dispersed in a medium, as well as in the presence of exogenous thiols. Importantly, these NAC‐stabilized gold nanoparticles offer a promising and versatile alternative to NHC‐stabilized gold nanoparticles.