bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic analysis of the Arabidopsis TIR1/AFB auxin receptors reveals both overlapping and specialized functions
Authors: Prigge Michael J , Platre Matthieu , Kadakia Nikita , Zhang Yi , Greenham Kathleen , Szutu Whitnie , Pandey Bipin Kumar , Bhosale Rahul Arvind , Bennett Malcolm J , Busch Wolfgang , Estelle Mark
Published: February 2020

The TIR1/AFB auxin co-receptors mediate diverse responses to the plant hormone auxin. The Arabidopsis genome encodes six TIR1/AFB proteins representing three of the four clades that were established prior to angiosperm radiation. To determine the role of these proteins in plant development we performed an extensive genetic analysis involving the generation and characterization of all possible multiply-mutant lines. We find that loss of all six TIR1/AFB proteins results in early embryo defects and eventually seed abortion, and yet a single wild-type allele of TIR1 or AFB2 is sufficient to support growth throughout development. Our analysis reveals extensive functional overlap between even the most distantly related TIR1/AFB genes except for AFB1. Surprisingly, AFB1 has a specialized function in rapid auxin-dependent inhibition of root growth and early phase of root gravitropism. This activity may be related to a difference in subcellular localization compared to the other members of the family.
Svalbard and Conflict Management in a Changing Climate
Authors: Ash John
Published: February 2020

Conflict in the Arctic is nothing new, and Svalbard is a geographical confluence of factors that create the potential for inter-group violence. The purpose of this paper is to explore those factors, identifying approaches to the evaluation of their associated risk. The emphasis is on biomarine resources, which at present constitute the most likely focus for escalating disputes. Contributory factors, including the catalytic effects of climate change, will also be considered. Given the political progress that has been achieved recently, the most likely situation for an intense interstate conflict in the short term is one that spreads tothe Arctic, rather than one igniting within it. However, as the century progresses, dormant problems relating to the Svalbard archipelago will combine with environmental, economic and political trends to exacerbate conflict risk. Traditionally, armed conflict has been viewed as a phenomenon that cannot be predicted. This view is identified as dangerously misleading. Using a risk based approach and noting advances in analytical techniques, representative scenarios in which conflict may occur are examined and prospective methods of risk management identified.
Ethnomedicinal Information of Selected Members of Vitaceae with Special Reference to Kerala State
Authors: Joseph Rani , Varghese Scaria K.
Published: February 2020

An ethnobotanical exploration of selected Vitaceae members of Kerala state was conducted from September 2014 to December 2018. During the ethnobotanical surveys, personal interviews were conducted with herbal medicine practitioners, traditional healers, elder tribal people and village dwellers. Field studies were conducted at regular intervals in various seasons in different regions of Kerala. Some of the genus belonging Vitaceae have ethnomedicinal significance stated by herbal medicine practitioners and elder tribal persons. It is an urgent need for documenting these peculiar plant species before such valuable knowledge becomes inaccessible and extinct.
Estimating Economic Impacts of Sea Level Rise in Florianópolis (Brazil) for the Year 2100
Authors: Montanari Fernando , Polette Marcus , Queiroz Sandra Mara Pereira de , Kolicheski Mônica Beatriz
Published: February 2020

Florianópolis is a city bathed by the ocean for most of its limits, which makes it a vulnerable environment to the effects of sea level rise (SLR). Thus, estimating the economic impacts of SLR in Florianópolis for the year 2100 may serve as a basis for designing public policies. The SLR scenario in Florianópolis for the year 2100 was generated by using geoprocessing techniques. In order to design the urban growth, the CityCell model was used and the economic impacts were estimated with the Adaptive Regional Input-Output (ARIO) model. The area affected in Florianópolis by SLR comprised 13.4% of its territory. The modeling for the year 2100 showed that the city will have a small urban growth. The direct cost of SLR in 2100 is predicted to reach 13 billion reals and the total cost is estimated to be 63 billion reals in the same year.
The worked quartz vein at Cnoc Dubh, Uig parish, Isles of Lewis, Western Isles: presentation and discussion of a small prehistoric quarry
Authors: Ballin Torben
Published: February 2020

In 2002, an examination was carried out of a small quartz vein at the knoll of Cnoc Dubh, a few hundred metres from the southern shores of Loch Ceann Hulabhig on the Isle of Lewis (NGR NB 2318 2998). The vein proved to have been worked in prehistoric time, defining it as a quarry, and it was measured, photographed and characterized. In the present paper, the Cnoc Dubh quartz quarry is presented in detail, to allow comparison with other lithic quarries, and it is attempted to define attributes diagnostic of prehistoric exploitation, and to schematically describe the 'mining operations' by which the quartz was procured. As part of this process,quartz quarrying is compared to the procurement of other lithic and stone raw materials, mainly drawing on research from Scandinavia, Australia and the USA, and the location of quartz quarries in relation to prehistoric settlements is discussed. The average distance between quartz sources and Neolithic - Bronze Age sites on Lewis is then used to discuss ownership of, and access to, prehistoric quartz sources, as well as the possible exchange of quartz.
Excavation of a Bronze Age kerbed cairn at Olcote, Breasclete, Near Calanais, Isle of Lewis
Authors: Neighbour Tim , McSweeney Kathleen , Carter Stephen , Johnson Melanie , Warren Graeme , Milburn Paula , Church Michael
Published: February 2020

An archaeological excavation was carried out by the Centre for Field Archaeology (CFA) from October to December 1995 of a Bronze Age kerbed cairn at Olcote, Breasclete, Isle of Lewis (NGR: NB 2180 3475). The cairn was discovered by CFA during an evaluation of a dense scatter of worked and unworked quartz made by local archaeologists, Margaret and Ron Curtis. The remains lay in the path of the improvement of the single track road through Breasclete. A range of archaeological features and deposits was identified and recorded within the excavation trench. These fell into three groups on stratigraphic grounds: pre-cairn features, including pits, spade or cultivation marks and a buried ground surface; the cairn itself, including inner and outer kerbs, burnt peat deposits, a central cist and other features; and modern deposits which cut the cairn, including post-holes and field drains. Excavation and post-excavation were wholly funded by Historic Scotland.
The excavation of a mound and three cist burials at Ferndall, Rendall, Orkney
Authors: Duffy Paul , MacGregor Gavin , Pollard Tony , Miller Jennifer , Will Robert , Evans Caitlin , Ramsey Susan , McSwan Gillian , Seivewright Jill
Published: February 2020

As part of the Historic Scotland Human Remains Call Off Contract, Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division (GUARD) undertook an archaeological excavation of an artificial mound and associated cists containing human remains of mid-Bronze Age date, at Ferndale, Rendall, Orkney. The excavation identified the presence of two cists containing cremation burials (cist 004 and cist 010), and a third that contained a poorly preserved inhumation (cist 003). Cists 004 and 010 would appear to be related to an artificially created mound, and parallel a number of similar 'barrow' sites from Orkney. Cist 004 contained an inhumation and was of differing construction. It would appear to relate to a different phase and tradition of cist burials. Analysis of skeletal material from cist 004 identified the remains of an older adult male, a female of between 18 and 30 years of age and an infant of 15 months. The adult male was found to have suffered from a bone infection of the femur and showed evidence of poor dental health. The female had suffered from iron deficiency anaemia. The preservation of skeletal material in cists 010 and 003 allowed only the identification of a single adult inhumation of unknown age and sex from each cist. The individuals from cists 004 and 010 had been cremated shortly after death, and analysis of associated soil residues suggests that their remains were subsequently picked from the pyre and washed. Radiocarbon dates from the cremated remains from cists 004 and 010 place the use of these two cists and construction of the associated mound in the first quarter of the second millennium BC. These dates are comparable to other dated cist burials in artificial mounds from Orkney, although it would appear to be one of the earlier sites in the currently available list of dates. Regrettably, a date could not be obtained from the poorly preserved inhumation from cist 003.
Excavations at Maybury Park, Edinburgh (1990-2)
Authors: Moloney Colm , Lawson John , Sheridan Alison , Saville Alan , Hastie Mhairi , Dean Valerie , McGill Catherine , Johnson Daniel
Published: February 2020

This paper presents the results of a series of excavations carried out by the City of Edinburgh Council Archaeology Service between 1990 and 1992 in advance of the Edinburgh Park development. Following a programme of test excavations, seven areas were opened up for excavation. Three of these contained significant archaeology dating to the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages. The main findings included a Neolithic trackway, evidence for Bronze Age settlement and a large stone-built structure dating to the beginning of the first millennium AD.
Mesolithic and later sites around the Inner Sound, Scotland the work of the Scotland's First Settlers project 1998-2004
Authors: Hardy Karen , Wickham-Jones Caroline , MacSween Ann , Cressey Michael , Barrett James , Edwards Kevin , Ashmore Patrick , Heald Andrew , Finlay Nyree , Milner Nicky , Schulting Rick , Shiel Robert , Dawson Alastair , Dawson Susan , Austin Phil , Campbell Stuart , Newton Anthony , Parks Rachel , Isbister A , McAllan L , Green Fraser , Clarke Ann , Hunter Fraser
Published: February 2020

Scotland's First Settlers comprised a survey project to locate and examine sites relating to the earliest, Mesolithic, settlement of the Inner Sound, along the coastlands between Skye and the west coast of Scotland. Particular foci of interest included the existence and nature of midden sites, the use of rockshelters and caves, and the different types of lithic raw material in use. In addition, information relating to the human use of the area up to the present day was recorded. Fieldwork took place over five years between 1999 and 2004: the entire coastline of the Inner Sound together with its islands was walked; 129 new archaeological sites were recorded; 36 sites were shovel pitted; 44 test pitted; and one major excavation took place. Excavation at Sand has been particularly exciting as it has resulted in the analysis of a shell midden dating to the early-mid seventh millennium BC, the early Mesolithic of Scotland. This report comprises the results of survey and excavation work as well as detailed artefact reports, full information on ecofacts such as shell, and bone, and information on the development of the landscape and environment, including sea level change. Finally, the broad-scale coverage of the project has led to a number of discussion points that have much to offer further work, both within the area and further afield. Digital material associated with this project is available through Archaeology Data Service archive http://dx.doi.org/10.5284/1000285 Scotland's First Settlers
Recovery of Oils and Fats from Oilseeds and Fatty Materials
Authors: Miles David R.
Published: February 2020

A summary of many methods for removing fats and oils from a variety of oilseeds and fatty materials, starting with some early methods and arriving at modern state‐of‐the‐art methods. This article covers preparation, including cracking, flaking, cooking, and drying, and extrusion preparation. Hydraulic crushing is covered as well as screw pressing, both prepressing and full pressing. Many early and modern screw presses of different manufacture are described. Batch rendering systems for animal fats are described as well as the more efficient continuous systems for dry rendering and systems for slurry rendering using multiple effect evaporators. Digestive rendering is also presented. This article ends with a discussion of methods for obtaining oil from olives and from palm fruit.
Genetic Diversity of Cyprinid Herpesvirus 3 from Different Geographical Locations during 1999–2019 in the United States of America
Authors: Shahin Khalid , Soto Esteban , Martínez-López Beatriz , Barnum Samantha
Published: February 2020

Cyprinid herpesvirus 3, also known as koi herpesvirus (KHV), is an important pathogen in common and koi carp Cyprinus carpio, varieties. Two main genotypes of KHV have been reported worldwide that are associated with Asian and European origins. In the USA, outbreaks of KHV diseases have been reported in different states since the early 1990s; however, the diversity of KHV is unknown. In the current study, 67 DNA samples that were extracted from clinical cases of koi tissues that were submitted for diagnosis during KHV outbreaks from 10 different states in the USA from 1999 to 2019 were used to investigate their genetic diversity. The thymidine kinase gene was amplified, sequenced, and used for phylogenetic analysis. Our results showed that the KHV isolates that were collected from the different states were clustered in the two known KHV genogroups, where 31 isolates belonged to the Asian genotype branch and 36 to the European genotype branch. The spatiotemporal analysis demonstrated fluctuation of KHV genotypes in the USA, as the main KHV genotype that was detected in koi in the USA from 1999 to 2013 was the European genotype, whereas the Asian KHV genotype appeared to emerge in the USA in 2008, increasing in incidence until 2019. The current study provides evidence on the genetic diversity of KHV in the USA. Future studies that evaluate the virulence of these genetically diverse isolates is warranted to obtain a better understanding of the epidemiology of this re-emerging pathogen. This may provide an improved awareness of the current status of KHV and help to control the disease in the koi population in the USA.
A program of exercise, brain training, and lecture to prevent cognitive decline
Authors: Kouzuki Minoru , Kato Toshiaki , Wada‐Isoe Kenji , Takeda Shinya , Tamura Atsuhito , Takanashi Yuichi , Azumi Shintaro , Kojima Yoshinori , Maruyama Chikako , Hayashi Maki , Itou Michimi , Urakami Katsuya
Published: February 2020

Objective

We examined the benefits of a community‐based program combining physical exercise, cognitive training, and education on dementia and lifestyle habits.

Methods

This crossover open‐label trial included 141 community‐dwelling elderly people with suspected mild cognitive decline (MCD). Subjects were assigned to a 6‐month intervention‐first/6‐month observation‐second (INT‐OBS) group or an OBS‐INT group. The 6‐month intervention consisted of 2 h of physical exercise, cognitive training, and classroom study or rest once weekly. Primary outcome was change in Touch Panel‐type Dementia Assessment Scale (TDAS) score.

Results

TDAS score improved significantly during the intervention period compared with the observation period for all subjects (P < 0.05). Some physical functions also improved significantly during the intervention period compared with the observation period in the OBS‐INT group (P < 0.05).

Interpretation

This community‐based program improved both cognitive and physical function in elderly people with suspected MCD.
Electrochemistry Induced Giant and Reversible Deformation in Oxides
Authors: Meng Fanqi , Ji Yiru , Chen Sijing , Zhang Qinghua , Ge Chen , Li Jiankun , Gao Ang , Du Jianyu , Wang Jiaju , Su Dong , Yu Qian , Gu Lin
Published: February 2020

Electric‐field‐induced strain in piezoelectric materials, which has demonstrated broad applications, usually provides about 1% strain. A giant and reversible deformation as large as ≈5% in BiFeO3 thin film induced by electrochemistry is reported, where the large lattice change is induced by electrochemical reaction through absorption and desorption of oxygen. Prior to deformation, a precursor phase with projected Fe–Fe pairs is formed first under low voltage (1 V), and then a large lattice expansion is eventually achieved under a high voltage (≈18 V), which is reversible under negative voltage. It is found that the giant strain is due to the electrochemically induced migration of oxygen ion which leads to significant out‐of‐plane lattice expansion under positive voltage, resulting in the formation of a new oxygen‐deficient phase. Interestingly, the new oxygen‐deficient phase is capable of transforming back to the pristine structure by absorbing oxygen under negative voltage. The results provide a new route to realize giant and reversible deformation in oxides by oxygen migration.
Enabling Rapid Charging Lithium Metal Batteries via Surface Acoustic Wave‐Driven Electrolyte Flow
Authors: Huang An , Liu Haodong , Manor Ofer , Liu Ping , Friend James
Published: February 2020

Both powerful and unstable, practical lithium metal batteries have remained a difficult challenge for over 50 years. With severe ion depletion gradients in the electrolyte during charging, they rapidly develop porosity, dendrites, and dead Li that cause poor performance and, all too often, spectacular failure. Remarkably, incorporating a small, 100 MHz surface acoustic wave device (SAW) solves this problem. Providing acoustic streaming electrolyte flow during charging, the device enables dense Li plating and avoids porosity and dendrites. SAW‐integrated Li cells can operate up to 6 mA cm−2 in a commercial carbonate‐based electrolyte; omitting the SAW leads to short circuiting at 2 mA cm−2. The Li deposition is morphologically dendrite‐free and close to theoretical density when cycling with the SAW. With a 245 µm thick Li anode in a full Li||LFP (LiFePO4) cell, introducing the SAW increases the uncycled Li from 145 to 225 µm, decreasing Li consumption from 41% to only 8%. A closed‐form model is provided to explain the phenomena and serve as a design tool for integrating this chemistry‐agnostic approach into batteries whatever the chemistry within.
Color‐Selective Printed Organic Photodiodes for Filterless Multichannel Visible Light Communication
Authors: Strobel Noah , Droseros Nikolaos , Köntges Wolfgang , Seiberlich Mervin , Pietsch Manuel , Schlisske Stefan , Lindheimer Felix , Schröder Rasmus R. , Lemmer Uli , Pfannmöller Martin , Banerji Natalie , Hernandez‐Sosa Gerardo
Published: February 2020

Future lightweight, flexible, and wearable electronics will employ visible‐light‐communication schemes to interact within indoor environments. Organic photodiodes are particularly well suited for such technologies as they enable chemically tailored optoelectronic performance and fabrication by printing techniques on thin and flexible substrates. However, previous methods have failed to address versatile functionality regarding wavelength selectivity without increasing fabrication complexity. This work introduces a general solution for printing wavelength‐selective bulk‐heterojunction photodetectors through engineering of the ink formulation. Nonfullerene acceptors are incorporated in a transparent polymer donor matrix to narrow and tune the response in the visible range without optical filters or light‐management techniques. This approach effectively decouples the optical response from the viscoelastic ink properties, simplifying process development. A thorough morphological and spectroscopic investigation finds excellent charge‐carrier dynamics enabling state‐of‐the‐art responsivities >102 mA W−1 and cutoff frequencies >1.5 MHz. Finally, the color selectivity and high performance are demonstrated in a filterless visible‐light‐communication system capable of demultiplexing intermixed optical signals.
New Findings on an Old Question: Can Defect‐Free Graphene Monolayers be Superior Metal‐Ion Battery Anodes?
Authors: Wu Donghai , Yang Baocheng , Chen Houyang , Ruckenstein Eli
Published: February 2020

Graphene has numerous extraordinary properties and applications, ranging from water purification to energy storage. Previous studies identified that defect‐free graphene monolayers cannot be adopted as lithium‐ion battery anodes. Approaches, such as functionalization and introducing defects in graphene, have been employed to improve its performance in energy storage. However, defects in graphene boost dendrite growth, resulting in safety issues and fast power losses in batteries. Herein, by adopting state‐of‐the‐art first‐principles calculations, orbital theory, and transition state theory, it is found that defect‐free graphene monolayers are a promising potassium‐ion battery (KIB) anodes, however, they cannot be employed as lithium‐/sodium‐/magnesium‐/calcium‐/zinc‐/aluminum‐ion battery anodes. The evidence of adsorption energy and electron transfer indicates that van der Waals interactions dominate the adsorption of K atoms while delocalized electrons neutralize repulsion between K ions. The KIB anode delivers a high capacity of 1487.7 mA h g−1 and ultrafast charging/discharging rates. Transition state theory results demonstrate that its ultrahigh classic diffusion constants achieve 2.36 × 1011/1.55 × 109 s−1, its Wigner zero‐point‐energy‐/tunneling‐corrected diffusion constants approach 2.38 × 1011/1.56 × 109 s−1, and its low quantum‐mechanical tunneling effects are 0.67%/0.72% under the low/high concentration diffusion of K ions at room temperature. This work offers a more comprehensive understanding of defect‐free graphene.
Thermally Durable Nonfullerene Acceptor with Nonplanar Conjugated Backbone for High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Cho Hye Won , An Na Gyeong , Park Song Yi , Shin Yun Seop , Lee Woojin , Kim Jin Young , Song Suhee
Published: February 2020

A nonfullerene acceptor (NFA) with acceptor–donor–acceptor (A–D–A) architecture, i‐IEICO‐2F, based on 4,9‐dihydro‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene as an electron‐donating core and 2‐(6‐fluoro‐2,3‐dihydro‐3‐oxo‐1H‐inden‐1‐ylidene)‐propanedinitrile as electron‐withdrawing end groups, is designed and synthesized. i‐IEICO‐2F has a twist structure in the main conjugated chain, which causes blueshifted absorption and leads to harmonious absorption with a high bandgap donor. The bandgap of i‐IEICO‐2F compliments the bandgap of suitable wide bandgap donor polymers such as J52, leading to complete light absorption throughout the visible spectrum. Devices based on i‐IEICO‐2F exhibit optimized photovoltaic performance including an open‐circuit voltage of 0.93 V, a short‐circuit current density of 16.61 mA cm−2, and a fill factor of 73%, and result in a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.28%. The i‐IEICO‐2F‐based devices reach PCEs of >11% without using any additives or post‐treatments. Devices are found to be thermally stable and maintain 44% of their initial PCE after 184.5 h of continuous thermal annealing (TA) treatment at 150 °C. Based on UV, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and grazing incidence wide angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS) results, i‐IEICO‐2F devices show almost identical morphology and molecular orientation throughout the TA treatment and excellent stability compared to other IEICO derivatives.
Imaging Carrier Dynamics and Transport in Hybrid Perovskites with Transient Absorption Microscopy
Authors: Deng Shibin , Blach Daria D. , Jin Linrui , Huang Libai
Published: February 2020

In this review, the recent progress in using transient absorption microscopy to image charge transport and dynamics in semiconducting hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites is discussed. The basic principles, instrumentation, and resolution of transient absorption microscopy are outlined. With temporal resolution as high as 10 fs, sub‐diffraction‐limit spatial resolution, and excited‐state structural resolution, these experiments have provided crucial details on charge transport mechanisms that have been previously obscured in conventional ultrafast spectroscopy measurements. Morphology‐dependent mapping unveils spatial heterogeneity in carrier recombination and cooling dynamics. By spatially separating the pump and probe beams, carrier transport across grain boundaries has been directly visualized. Further, femtosecond temporal resolution allows for the examination of nonequilibrium transport directly, revealing extraordinarily long‐range hot carrier migration. The application of transient absorption microscopy is not limited to hybrid perovskites but can also be useful for other polycrystalline materials in which morphology plays an important role in carrier transport.
Delayed Premium Payment, Insurance Adoption, and Household Investment in Rural China
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Chen Kevin , Hill Ruth V.
Published: February 2020

We conduct a randomized controlled trial to examine the impacts of delayed premium payment on insurance uptake and the subsequent investment decisions among smallholder farmers in rural China. Our results show uptake among those with the delayed payment option is 10% higher than and three times as high as among those without the option. We also find a positive impact of delayed premium payment and insurance adoption on household investment in production, especially higher risk activities.
Randomized Controlled Trial of a Multilevel Intervention to Address Social Determinants of Refugee Mental Health
Authors: Goodkind Jessica R. , Bybee Deborah , Hess Julia Meredith , Amer Suha , Ndayisenga Martin , Greene R. Neil , Choe Ryeora , Isakson Brian , Baca Brandon , Pannah Mahbooba
Published: February 2020

Highlights

Multilevel strengths‐based intervention decreases refugee distress and improves protective factors.

Holistic focus on psychological, material, social, educational, and cultural needs is effective.

High recruitment/retention rates support importance of non‐stigmatizing universal interventions.

Refugee Well‐being Project (RWP) intervention reaches refugees unlikely to access formal mental health services.

RWP circumvents typical barriers to services (stigma, trust, linguistic/cultural appropriateness).
Complex interactions underlie racial disparity in the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease dementia
Authors: Xiong Chengjie , Luo Jingqin , Coble Dean , Agboola Folasade , Kukull Walter , Morris John C.
Published: February 2020

Introduction

We aim to determine racial disparities and their modifying factors in risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia among cognitively normal individuals 65 years or older.

Methods

Longitudinal data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set on 1229 African Americans (AAs) and 6679 whites were analyzed for the risk of AD using competing risk models with death as a competing event.

Results

Major AD risk factors modified racial differences which, when statistically significant, occurred only with older age among APOE ε4 negative individuals, but also with younger age among APOE ε4 positive individuals. The racial differences favored AAs among individuals with body mass index (BMI) < 30, but whites among individuals with a high BMI (≥ 30), and were additionally modified by sex, education, hypertension, and smoking status.

Conclusions

The presence, direction, and relative magnitude of racial disparity for AD represent an interactive function of major AD and cerebrovascular risk factors.
Synthesis of Diastereoenriched α‐Aminomethyl Enaminones via a Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Asymmetric aza‐Baylis‐Hillman Reaction of Chiral N‐Phosphonyl Imines
Authors: Liu Yangxue , Ahmed Sultan , Qin Xiao‐Yan , Rouh Hossein , Wu Guanzhao , Li Guigen , Jiang Bo
Published: February 2020

An effective chiral GAP methodology for preparing α‐aminomethyl enaminones through a (R)‐CSA‐catalyzed asymmetric aza‐Baylis‐Hillman reaction is reported. Excellent yields and high diastereoselectivity could be obtained under mild conditions and convenient GAP techniques. The confirmations of the absolute configuration of N‐phosphonyl imine and chiral enaminone by X‐ray diffraction provides an explicit explanation of the chirality mechanism for GAP chemistry.
ZIF‐8‐Nanocrystalline Zirconosilicate Integrated Porous Material for the Activation and Utilization of CO2 in Insertion Reactions
Authors: Srivastava Diksha , Rani Poonam , Srivastava Rajendra
Published: February 2020

The conversion of CO2 to useful chemicals, especially to atom economical products, is the best approach to utilize an excess of CO2 present in the atmosphere. In this study, a metal‐organic framework (ZIF‐8) is integrated with nanocrystalline zirconosilicate zeolite to develop an integrated porous catalyst for CO2 insertion reactions. The catalyst exhibits excellent activity for the CO2 insertion reaction of epoxide to produce cyclic carbonate in neat condition without the addition of any co‐catalyst. The catalyst is stable and recyclable during the cyclic carbonate synthesis. Further, the catalyst also exhibits very good activity in another CO2 insertion reaction to produce quinazoline‐2,4(1H, 3H)‐dione.
Bayesian optimal life‐testing plan under the balanced two sample type‐II progressive censoring scheme
Authors: Mondal Shuvashree , Bhattacharya Ritwik , Pradhan Biswabrata , Kundu Debasis
Published: February 2020

Joint progressive censoring schemes are quite useful to conduct comparative life‐testing experiment of different competing products. Recently, Mondal and Kundu (“A New Two Sample Type‐II Progressive Censoring Scheme,”Commun Stat‐Theory Methods; 2018) introduced a joint progressive censoring scheme on two samples known as the balanced joint progressive censoring (BJPC) scheme. Optimal planning of such progressive censoring scheme is an important issue to the experimenter. This article considers optimal life‐testing plan under the BJPC scheme using the Bayesian precision and D‐optimality criteria, assuming that the lifetimes follow Weibull distribution. In order to obtain the optimal BJPC life‐testing plans, one needs to carry out an exhaustive search within the set of all admissible plans under the BJPC scheme. However, for large sample size, determination of the optimal life‐testing plan is difficult by exhaustive search technique. A metaheuristic algorithm based on the variable neighborhood search method is employed for computation of the optimal life‐testing plan. Optimal plans are provided under different scenarios. The optimal plans depend upon the values of the hyperparameters of the prior distribution. The effect of different prior information on optimal scheme is studied.
FCX‐146, a potent allosteric inhibitor of Akt kinase in cancer cells: Lead optimization of the second‐generation arylidene indanone scaffold
Authors: Balasubramaniam Meenakshisundaram , Lakkaniga Naga Rajiv , Dera Ayed A , Fayi Majed Al , Abohashrh Mohammed , Ahmad Irfan , Chandramoorthy Harish C. , Nalini Ganesan , Rajagopalan Prasanna
Published: February 2020

Akt, a serine‐threonine protein kinase, is regulated by class‐I PI3K signaling. Akt regulates a wide variety of cell processes including cell proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis through serine/threonine phosphorylation of downstream targets including mTOR and glycogen‐synthase‐kinase‐3‐beta (GSK3β). Targeting cancer‐specific overexpression of Akt protein could be an efficient way to control cancer‐cell proliferation. However, the ATP‐competitive inhibitors are challenged by the highly conserved ATP binding site, and by competition with high cellular concentrations of ATP. We previously developed an allosteric inhibitor, 2‐arylidene‐4, 7‐dimethyl indan‐1‐one (FXY‐1) that showed promising activity against several lung cancer models. In this work, we designed a congeneric series of molecules based on FXY‐1 and optimized lead based on computational, in vitro assays. Computational screening followed by enzyme‐inhibition and cell‐proliferation assays identified a derivative (FCX‐146) as a new lead molecule with threefold greater potency than the parent compound. FCX‐146 increased apoptosis in HL‐60 cells, mediated in part through decreased expression of antiapoptotic Bcl‐2 protein and increased levels of Bax‐2 and Caspase‐3. Molecular‐dynamic simulations showed stable binding of FCX‐146 to an allosteric (i.e., noncatalytic) pocket in Akt. Together, we propose FCX‐146 as a potent second‐generation arylidene indanone compound that binds to the allosteric pocket of Akt and potently inhibits its activation.
The use of catechins in Chinese hamster ovary cell media for the improvement of monoclonal antibody yields and a reduction of acidic species
Authors: Toronjo‐Urquiza Luis , Acosta‐Martin Adelina E. , James David C. , Nagy Tibor , Falconer Robert J.
Published: February 2020

Catechin compounds have potential benefits for recombinant monoclonal antibody (Mab) production as chemical additives in cell culture media. In this study, four catechin compounds catechin (Cat), epicatechin (EC), gallocatechin‐gallate (GCG), and epigallocatechin‐gallate (EGCG) were added to cell culture media (at 50 μM) and their effects on the recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell culture, specific productivity, and Mab quality were assessed. The results indicate that the improvement of specific productivity was linked to cell growth inhibition. All catechins caused cell phase growth arrest by lowering the number of cells in the G1/G0 phase and increasing the cells in the S and G2/M phases. Late addition of the catechin resulted in a significantly higher final IgG concentration. Cat and EC caused an improvement in the final antibody titer of 1.5 ± 0.1 and 1.3 ± 0.1 fold, respectively. Catechins with a galloyl group (GCG and EGCG) arrested cell growth and reduced cell specific productivity at the concentrations tested. The Cat‐treated IgG was found to have reduced acidic species with a corresponding increase in the main peak.
Determination of Carbamates and Thiocarbamates in Water, Soil and Sediment of the Formoso River, TO, Brazil
Authors: Guarda Patricia M. , Pontes Antonina M. S. , de S. Domiciano Raquel , da S. Gualberto Larissa , B. Mendes Danylo , A. Guarda Emerson , da Silva José E. C.
Published: February 2020

Considering the increase in agricultural production in Brazil, the use of pesticides for this production, and that there are no studies on pesticides in the region, the presence of carbamates and thiocarbamates was investigated in different environmental compartments of the Formoso River, TO, Brazil, by UHPLC/MS/MS. The collections were made on the banks of this river, in the area of influence of the agricultural project. The active principles were not found in the soil and sediment samples, only the propoxur principle was found in the water, reaching values of up to 0.025 μg L−1. It was found that the biodiversity of the Tocantinense savannah is under threat, because even though only one of the substances surveyed, propoxur and its derivatives, has been detected, they are substances of high toxicity and tendency to contaminate surface and groundwater to varying degrees and irreversible damage to different species.
The long noncoding RNA LINC00341 suppresses colorectal carcinoma by preventing cell migration and apoptosis
Authors: Li Shuyuan , Chen Shuo , Wang Boxue , Zhang Lin , Su Yinan , Zhang Xipeng
Published: February 2020

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are ubiquitous transcripts that play key roles in regulating gene expression at the levels of transcription, RNA processing, and translation. Aberrant expression and mutations of lncRNAs represent a driving force behind oncogenesis and development of tumours. However, most of the lncRNAs are still being undiscovered, and conclusive experimental evidence for their functional relevance continues to be lacking for most malignancies. We have found that lncRNA long intergenic non–protein‐coding RNA 341 (LINC00341) is aberrantly downregulated by microarray‐based screenings on nonmetastatic and metastatic colorectal carcinoma (CRC) specimens; LINC00341 is a novel long intergenic non–protein‐coding RNA with unknown functions. LINC00341 overexpression restricts tumour growth and promotes its apoptosis. Instead, LINC00341 silencing accelerates CRC cell proliferation and migration. RNA‐pulldown assay identifies LINC00341 physically binds to HMGB2 and stabilizes the localization of HMGB2 in the cytoplasm. Notably, LINC00341 knockdown leads to the shift of HMGB2 into nuclear, in which it triggers epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) programming. Moreover, LINC00341 can also promote apoptosis.

Significance of the study

LncRNAs are ubiquitous transcripts that play key roles in regulating gene expression at the levels of transcription, RNA processing, and translation. Aberrant expression and mutations of lncRNAs represent a driving force behind oncogenesis and development of tumours. However, the function of lncRNA still needs further exploration. Our study has revealed a new noncoding RNA‐mediated regulatory network that highly likely protects colorectal carcinoma by preventing migration and apoptosis. The results will help further explore the molecular details about the progression of colorectal carcinoma and stimulate efforts to develop effective therapies.
MicroRNA‐93‐5p expression in tumor tissue and its tumor suppressor function via targeting programmed death ligand‐1 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Chen Yi‐Lin , Wang Gao‐Xiong , Lin Bei‐An , Huang Jing‐Shan
Published: February 2020

This work aimed to investigate miR‐93‐5p expression in tumor tissue and its in vitro effects in colorectal cancer (CRC) by targeting programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1). MiR‐93‐5p and PD‐L1 expression was detected in CRC and adjacent normal tissues by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. The correlation between miR‐93‐5p and PD‐L1 was validated by a dual‐luciferase reporter assay. HCT116 and SW480 cells were divided into blank, miR‐NC, miR‐93‐5p mimics, miR‐93‐5p inhibitor, PD‐L1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) and miR‐93‐5p inhibitor + PD‐L1 siRNA groups, and wound‐healing and transwell assays were performed to detect cell migration and invasion, respectively. Protein expression was measured by western blotting. The secretion of cytokines was detected in the CRC cell/T coculture models. MiR‐93‐5p was downregulated in CRC tissues with upregulated PD‐L1. In PD‐L1‐negative patients, miR‐93‐5p expression was increased compared with that in PD‐L1‐positive patients. MiR‐93‐5p and PD‐L1 expression levels were associated with the tumor differentiation, lymphatic metastasis, TNM, Duke's stage, and prognosis of CRC. PD‐L1 siRNA weakened the migration and invasion abilities via decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1), ‐2, and ‐9, and these effects were abolished by the miR‐93‐5p inhibitor. Additionally, anti‐PD‐L1 upregulated the expressions of interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and interferon γ (IFN‐γ) in the coculture of T cells with CRC cells, but downregulated the expressions of IL‐1β, IL‐10, and TGF‐β. However, these changes were partially reversed by miR‐93‐5p inhibition. miR‐93‐5p is expected to be a novel target for CRC treatment since it decreases the migration and invasion, as well as the immune evasion, of CRC cells via targeting PD‐L1.
Inhibition of RING1B alters lineage specificity in human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Desai Divya , Khanna Aparna , Pethe Prasad
Published: February 2020

Polycomb group (PcG) proteins are histone modifiers which are known to perform transcriptional repression and have been shown to be critical during murine embryonic development. PcGs are broadly characterized into polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) and 2 and (PRC2). RING1B, core catalytic unit of PRC1 performs H2AK119 monoubiquitination leading to transcriptional repression. We used human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line to study the fate of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) under inhibition of RING1B, as its role in human development is still to be completely explored. Embryoid bodies (EBs) were generated to differentiate hESCs using hanging drop method. PRT4165 (synthetic RING1B catalytic activity inhibitor) was added to undifferentiated and differentiated cells for 24 h. When we inhibited RING1B in undifferentiated cells, OCT4 levels remained unchanged indicating RING1B does not regulate pluripotency. The drug when added to differentiated cells led to decrease in the levels of RING1B, BMI1, and H2AK119ub1. Interestingly, we also report that the differentiated cells show an increased expression of neuroectodermal markers: SOX1 and PAX6 as well as expression of other neuroectodermal markers such as TUJ1, FOXG1, and NCAM. However, there was reduction in expression of endodermal (SOX17 and FOXA2) mesodermal marker BRACHYURY and TBX5 in treated EBs compared with control EBs. In summary, alteration of RING1B catalytic activity in hESCs during differentiation promotes neuroectodermal differentiation thus, we demonstrate critical role of RING1B in regulating neural differentiation. The strategy of inhibiting RING1B could be used to direct PSCs towards early neuronal fate.
Is familicide a distinct subtype of mass murder? Evidence from a Swiss national cohort
Authors: Frei Andreas , Ilic Andrea
Published: February 2020

Background

Familicide is defined as the killing of a whole family and, numerically, a form of “mass murder” (more‐or‐less three simultaneous killings). Switzerland has a lower rate of homicide than most other countries but a comparatively high share of homicides within the family.

Aim

The aim of this study is to describe a complete national sample of familicides and compare them with other types of mass murders in the country over the same period.

Methods

All cases of three or more unlawful homicides in one event in Switzerland between 1972 and 2015 were identified from court records and socio‐demographic, criminological, and psychological variables were extracted. Given small numbers, we rely on narrative comparisons.

Results

There were 20 familicides in the 43‐year study, with 82 victims between them as well as six felony‐associated mass murders accounting for 19 victims and nine public mass murders with 44 victims. Only one familicide was a woman; mean age was 39.5 years (range 19–57 years). Most were in employment. Only four had a prior psychiatric history. Nine had a history of violent or intrusive behaviour, but a prior criminal conviction was rare. In all but one case there was evidence of psychosocial stressors; eight men were facing separation from a spouse. Just over half used guns, but only three used army weapons. The main difference between the familicides and the other mass killers was the much higher rate of suicide among the familicides.

Conclusions

Familicides in Switzerland appear to be rare suicidal acts, generally carried out by previously successful and apparently stable middle‐aged men with often an inconspicuous psychiatric history or criminal record, differing considerably from other groups of mass killers. Expert responses, like the recently established multidisciplinary “threat management boards” in Switzerland, should bear in mind that the likely competent men involved may be good at covering their intent even from themselves.
Tearing into Takotsubo
Authors: McNeill Gwyneth , Gray William A.
Published: February 2020

Key Points

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection and Takotsubo syndrome are less common cardiovascular diseases that share similar clinical features.

The current study offers a promising association and mechanistic etiology between the disorders, but is limited by a small sample size.

Further research with a larger patient population is warranted.
Cardiac tamponade in the interventional era: A paradigm shift in etiology and outcomes
Authors: Goldstein James A.
Published: February 2020

Key Points

CT unrelated to percutaneous interventions: Slow effusion in compliant pericardium, with gradual hemodynamic manifestations allows controlled echo guided pericardiocentesis

CT complicating percutaneous interventions: Traumatic breach of cardiac anatomy, with abrupt hemorrhage into a noncompliant pericardium inducing profound hemodynamic compromise. Stabilization requires both “pericardial relief” and attention to the primary anatomic defect.

CT induced by percutaneous interventions typically occurs in patients with intrinsically infirm hearts (coronary, valvular, and myocardial disease), suffering comorbidities (elderly, kidney disease) that render them less able to tolerate hemodynamic compromise
Topiramate causing type II renal tubular acidosis: A case and review of the mechanism
Authors: Chahin Michael , Oye Monique , Jadeja Sonal , Sanders Kimberly , Reddy Pramod
Published: February 2020

Topiramate has a wide array of pharmacologic effects, including proximal renal tubular acidosis (RTA). Clinicians must be wary of the possibility for development of somnolence due to compensatory hyperventilation and cardiac dysrhythmias.
Chemical Looping Selective Oxidation of H2S using V2O5 Impregnated over Different Supports as Oxygen Carriers
Authors: Kane Tanushree , Guerrero Caballero Jesús , Löfberg Axel
Published: February 2020

Chemical looping concept is proposed to improve the efficiency of selective oxidation of H2S into elemental sulfur. V2O5 as an active oxygen carrier, is impregnated on different supports and exposed cyclically to reductant (H2S) and to oxidant (O2). Among all, TiO2 and SiO2 proved as better supports for V2O5 as they provided more formation of elemental sulfur than undesired SO2 in the reductant step. Results indicate that the support can either directly react and provide oxygen to the process like for CeO2 or indirectly affect the properties of the active phase, leading either into the improvement, as for TiO2 and SiO2, or worsening, as in case of Al2O3 and ZrO2. Oxygen carriers with partially reduced species, i. e., the combination of V5+ and V4+, show better performances than carriers containing mostly highly oxidized V5+ species. Interaction between the active phase and support plays a vital role for the controls of the formation of these partially reduced species.
Spectroscopic Signatures of Pressurized Carbon Dioxide in Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Spectroscopy of Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Fehr Samuel M. , Krossing Ingo
Published: February 2020

Using diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy to study surface species of reaction intermediates on heterogeneous catalysts requires particular precautions, when assigning IR bands to intermediates apparently resulting from the reaction of H2, CO, and CO2. In accordance with earlier work, it is shown that in the investigation of the heterogeneous methanol synthesis, several gas phase bands of CO2 were misassigned in previous studies as adsorbates on the catalyst surface. Thus, several combination bands and overtones of CO2 in the 2200–750 cm−1 range – notably those at 2130, 2112, 2107, 2094, 2077, ∼2056, 1933, ∼1920, ∼1079, ∼1050, ∼973, and ∼948 cm−1 – were already misinterpreted as adsorbates/intermediates. Some of these bands exhibit similar (low) intensities as surface species and are in the range of typical adsorbed CO or methoxy/methanol vibrations. Higher pressures and temperatures, which are necessary to study industrial catalysts by in situ IR spectroscopy, even amplify this effect. In addition, due to a Fermi resonance at a CO2 partial pressure above ∼10 bar, two further bands appear at 1388 and 1285 cm−1. This is also within the range typically associated with surface adsorbates. In order to avoid misassignments of IR bands for in situ or operando DRIFT spectroscopy, those occurring at CO2 pressures up to 30 bar in the widely used Praying MantisTM High Temperature Reaction Chamber are presented here and assigned to their origin as combination bands and overtones of gaseous CO2.