bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of vitamin D supplementation on N‐glycan branching and cellular immunophenotypes in MS
Authors: Bäcker‐Koduah Priscilla , Infante‐Duarte Carmen , Ivaldi Federico , Uccelli Antonio , Bellmann‐Strobl Judith , Wernecke Klaus‐Dieter , Sy Michael , Demetriou Michael , Dörr Jan , Paul Friedemann , Ulrich Brandt Alexander
Published: August 2020

Objective

To investigate the effect of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplementation on peripheral immune cell frequency and N‐glycan branching in patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Methods

Exploratory analysis of high‐dose (20 400 IU) and low‐dose (400 IU) vitamin D3 supplementation taken every other day of an 18‐month randomized controlled clinical trial including 38 RRMS patients on stable immunomodulatory therapy (NCT01440062). We investigated cholecalciferol treatment effects on N‐glycan branching using L‐PHA stain (phaseolus vulgaris leukoagglutinin) at 6 months and frequencies of T‐, B‐, and NK‐cell subpopulations at 12 months with flow cytometry.

Results

High‐dose supplementation did not change CD3+ T cell subsets, CD19+ B cells subsets, and NK cells frequencies, except for CD8+ T regulatory cells, which were reduced in the low‐dose arm compared to the high‐dose arm at 12 months. High‐dose supplementation decreased N‐glycan branching on T and NK cells, measured as L‐PHA mean fluorescence intensity (MFI). A reduction of N‐glycan branching in B cells was not significant. In contrast, low‐dose supplementation did not affect N‐glycan branching. Changes in N‐glycan branching did not correlate with cell frequencies.

Interpretation

Immunomodulatory effect of vitamin D may involve regulation of N‐glycan branching in vivo. Vitamin D3 supplementation did at large not affect the frequencies of peripheral immune cells.
Flexible and Insoluble Artificial Synapses Based on Chemical Cross‐Linked Wool Keratin
Authors: Shi Chenyang , Lan Jinling , Wang Jingjuan , Zhang Shuai , Lin Youhui , Zhu Shuihong , Stegmann Amy E. , Yu Rui , Yan Xiaobing , Liu Xiang Yang
Published: August 2020

Designing suitable material systems to construct artificial synapses and exploring novel synaptic functions is a crucial step toward the realization of efficient large‐scale bioinspired neuromorphic systems. In this work, flexible and insoluble bio‐memristor devices are fabricated by precisely engineering the molecular structures of wool keratin. This flexible Ag/keratin/indium tin oxide‐polyethylene naphthalate synaptic device possesses enhanced mechanical resistance, which is achieved by photo‐cross‐linking keratin molecules, and can withstand a bending radius of up to 1.2 mm. This device is promising for implantable applications because it is water‐resistant. When modulated by triangle‐wave DC voltages and pulsed voltages, this flexible electronic device emulates typical memristor characteristics and synaptic functions, including potentiation/depression, spike timing dependent plasticity, and long‐term/short‐term plasticity. Simulation results indicate that a memristor network made by this wool‐keratin based device has ≈95.8% memory learning accuracy and capability for pattern learning. Combined, these features prove that the cross‐linked wool‐keratin based device has potential in wearable and flexible neuron computing systems.
Effective Optimization of High Voltage Solid‐State Lithium Batteries by Using Poly(ethylene oxide)‐Based Polymer Electrolyte with Semi‐Interpenetrating Network
Authors: Homann Gerrit , Stolz Lukas , Neuhaus Kerstin , Winter Martin , Kasnatscheew Johannes
Published: August 2020

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are promising candidates for the realization of lithium metal batteries. However, the popular SPE based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) reveals a “voltage noise”‐failure during charge, for example, with high energy/high voltage electrodes like LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 (NMC622), which can be attributed to short‐circuits via penetrating Li dendrites. This failure disappears when integrating PEO‐based SPE in a semi interpenetrating network, which mainly consists of PEO units, as well. In this work, it is shown that this SPE allows performance improvement via elimination of the crystalline domains without significant sacrifice of mechanical integrity. Hence, a highly amorphous SPE can be obtained by a simple increase of plasticizing Li salts, which overall is beneficial, not only for the ionic conductivity, but also the homogeneity, while remaining mechanically stable and solid in its original shape even after storage at 60 °C for 7 days. These aspects are crucial for the performance of the modified SPE as they can suppress the failure‐causing Li dendrite penetration while the electrochemical aspects, that is, anodic stability, are rather unaffected by the modification and remain stable (4.6 V vs Li│Li+). Overall, this optimized SPE enables stable cycling performance in NMC622│SPE│Li cells, even at 40 °C operation temperature.
Bioinspired Surface with Superwettability for Controllable Liquid Dynamics
Authors: Zhou Shan , Jiang Lei , Dong Zhichao
Published: August 2020

Liquid dynamics on a solid surface, i.e., the impact, flow, or overflow, are ubiquitous in nature and cause multifaceted problems that affect daily life. Recent studies on the role of surface superwettability in controlling liquid dynamics have attracted much attention. The role of particular surface morphologies and surface chemical compositions in manipulating the liquid impact or transport dynamics has garnered diverse scientific interests and has encouraged the widespread use of surface wettabilities in practical applications. Herein, the recent progress according to the interaction method between the liquid and solid is classified and summarized. The crucial influence of surface wettabilities and structures on liquid dynamic behaviors and a critical survey of the mechanism behind these behaviors, along with emerging applications, challenges, and perspectives, are presented.
Recent Progress of Biomimetic Antifouling Surfaces in Marine
Authors: Yan Hao , Wu Qingshan , Yu Cunming , Zhao Tianyi , Liu Mingjie
Published: August 2020

Marine biofouling is defined as the accumulation of living organisms on surfaces submerged in seawater. The growth of aquatic organisms on the man‐made surfaces such as ships, buoys, sonar devices, and ocean infrastructures is regarded as a serious problem. Antifouling paints are developed to prevent the growth of biofouling by continually releasing biocides. In recent years, the outstanding antifouling performances discovered from natural creatures have motivated the development of new biomimetic antifouling approaches. In this progress report, the recent development of biomimetic antifouling surface is summarized. The main advantages and drawbacks of these systems are presented along with a brief introduction to their scientific basis. As the potential development of biomimetic coatings is still far from commercialization, some common yet hitherto neglected perspectives are discussed. It is believed that by selecting and combining the most effective antifouling mechanisms from nature, will bring a new era to nontoxic antifouling paints in the near future.
A Flexible Transient Biomemristor Based on Hybrid Structure HfO2/BSA:Au Double Layers
Authors: Li Xiangnan , Zhang Lei , Guo Rui , Chen Jingsheng , Yan Xiaobing
Published: August 2020

Biomemristors have attracted increasing attention in neuromorphic computing as artificial biosynapses for wearable and implantable electronic systems. So far, biomemristors have achieved a series of neural outstanding functions, such as long‐term enhancement and long‐term inhibition, spiking‐time‐dependent plasticity, and paired impulse promotion, which has further developed memristors in the field of neurobionics. However, there is a problem in conventional memristors regarding the growth position and nucleation dynamics of the conductive filaments since they cause unstable switching parameters. In this study, a new hybrid structure with HfO2/BSA:Au (bovine serum doped with nanogold) is designed to improve biomemristor performance. The Ag/HfO2/BSA:Au/Pt stacked devices show a reversible and excellent bipolar resistive switching behavior. Moreover, the device can faithfully emulate the apoptotic process of biological synapses. Also, the same structure is constructed on a polydimethylsiloxane flexible substrate to examine the biosynapse's functional performance under bending conditions. Finally, the memristor cell can be completely dissolved in deionized water. The hybrid biomemristor can open up a new route to improve the reliability of the biomemristor based on the overall device performance of the BSA:Au, which could significantly accelerate hybrid biomemristor practical applications in wearable, degradable, or implantable electronic systems.
Micro‐Schottky Junction‐Boosted Efficient Charge Transducing for Ultrasensitive NO2 Sensing
Authors: Wang Jinyong , Zhang Jun , Wang Wenfeng , Guo Yanan
Published: August 2020

The detection of ultralow NO2 for practical applications remains a significant challenge because the two critical characteristics of high sensitivity and good robustness are considerably unsatisfactory. Inspired by the classification of stimuli‐receiving and signal‐conveying for a stimuli‐responsive procedure of a neuron in organisms, an internal micro‐Schottky junction introduced into a chemiresistor is constructed as an efficient transduction strategy to boost the less concerned transducing stage for a further improvement in NO2 sensing performance. The SnO2 nanoflowers/reduced graphene oxide‐based chemiresistor achieves a response of 10.5 toward 10 ppt NO2, with a record‐breaking limit of detection of 0.73 ppt at room temperature as well as fast response and recovery times of 59 and 9 s at 10 ppt. Surprisingly, the sensor exhibits good robustness, including higher selectivity, long‐term stability, and process stability. A comprehensive analysis of the electrical properties and energy band of inorganic materials reveals that the ultrahigh sensitivity and faster response/recovery are primarily related to the efficient transducing ability arising from the rapid electron transport and signal‐amplifying effect contributed by micro‐Schottky junctions. The concept of affiliating the sensing material modulation to the recepting and transducing stages and considering comprehensively provides a novel insight into the enhancement of gas sensing performance.
Inkjet‐Printed Ternary Inverter Circuits with Tunable Middle Logic Voltages
Authors: Kim Bongjun
Published: August 2020

A multi‐valued logic (MVL) technology is considered to be a promising way to improve data processing capabilities with higher bit density. Unique negative transconductance characteristics in van der Waals (vdW) p‐n heterojunction‐based devices enabled recent demonstrations of MVL circuits. Herein, inkjet‐printed ternary inverters are presented for the first time by connecting anti‐ambipolar transistors, based on indium oxide/single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) heterojunctions, and SWCNT transistors. Inkjet printing allows systematic control of anti‐ambipolar transistor characteristics by forming vdW heterojunctions reliably. The anti‐ambipolar transistor characteristics are widely tuned by simply changing the number of SWCNT printing in heterojunction channels. Tunable middle logic voltages in ternary inverters are achieved by using the changes in anti‐ambipolar transistor characteristics. This work provides a guideline for tuning device characteristics of anti‐ambipolar transistors and ternary inverters.
Molecular diagnostic challenges for non‐retinal developmental eye disorders in the United Kingdom
Authors: Jackson Daniel , Malka Samantha , Harding Philippa , Palma Juliana , Dunbar Hannah , Moosajee Mariya
Published: August 2020

Overall, approximately one‐quarter of patients with genetic eye diseases will receive a molecular diagnosis. Patients with developmental eye disorders face a number of diagnostic challenges including phenotypic heterogeneity with significant asymmetry, coexisting ocular and systemic disease, limited understanding of human eye development and the associated genetic repertoire, and lack of access to next generation sequencing as regarded not to impact on patient outcomes/management with cost implications. Herein, we report our real world experience from a pediatric ocular genetics service over a 12 month period with 72 consecutive patients from 62 families, and that from a cohort of 322 patients undergoing whole genome sequencing (WGS) through the Genomics England 100,000 Genomes Project; encompassing microphthalmia, anophthalmia, ocular coloboma (MAC), anterior segment dysgenesis anomalies (ASDA), primary congenital glaucoma, congenital cataract, infantile nystagmus, and albinism. Overall molecular diagnostic rates reached 24.9% for those recruited to the 100,000 Genomes Project (73/293 families were solved), but up to 33.9% in the clinic setting (20/59 families). WGS was able to improve genetic diagnosis for MAC patients (15.7%), but not for ASDA (15.0%) and congenital cataracts (44.7%). Increased sample sizes and accurate human phenotype ontology (HPO) terms are required to improve diagnostic accuracy. The significant mixed complex ocular phenotypes distort these rates and lead to missed variants if the correct gene panel is not applied. Increased molecular diagnoses will help to explain the genotype–phenotype relationships of these developmental eye disorders. In turn, this will lead to improved integrated care pathways, understanding of disease, and future therapeutic development.
N−H and C−H Functionalization of Sulfoximine: Recent Advancement and Prospects
Authors: Ghosh Prasanjit , Ganguly Bhaskar , Das Sajal
Published: August 2020

Sulfoximine and its congeners are a versatile class of structural motifs widely found in a plethora of pharmaceutical compounds and crop protection industries due to their fascinating structural architecture. Former discoveries nicely demonstrates the synthetic routes of unmasked and various N‐functionalized sulfoximines but recent efforts from the synthetic community have divulged the applicability of sulfoximine analogue as reusable and transformable DG (directing group) to fabricate multifunctionalized (Het)arenes and enhance the bioactivities. Considering the synthetic potentiality and great influence of this scaffold, we provide a summary of N−H/C−H functionalization strategies of sulfoximine and application (as a directing group) with special emphasis on the mechanistic underpinnings. Additionally, we also hoped that this comprehensive review article (up to midst of 2020) will be useful for synthetic researchers and medicinal chemists and will inspire for further novel chemical transformations in this arena.
Pd‐Catalyzed Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling of 3‐Benzoyl Substituted Coumarins: Efficient Access to Indeno[2,1‐c]chromene‐6,7‐diones
Authors: Yang Ting , Ding Xingxing , Zhan Xuecheng , Weng Yiyi
Published: August 2020

Palladium‐catalyzed cross‐dehydrogenative coupling of 3‐benzoyl substituted coumarins through C−H activation is described to synthesize indeno[2,1‐c]chromene‐6,7‐diones. A broad range of indeno[2,1‐c]chromene‐6,7‐diones using this method could be easily achieved in moderate to good yields (up to 93%).
Big data and poverty governance under Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand's “social investment” policies
Authors: Staines Zoe , Moore Charlotte , Marston Greg , Humpage Louise
Published: August 2020

Surveillance and governance of the poor have been key foci for the critical social policy literature for some time, although scholarship regarding the role of big data in social policy – and how this might differ from previous forms of surveillance – is continuing to emerge. This article contributes to this literature by exploring the use of big data under Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand's social investment approaches. Both seek to replace social policy spending with “investment” expected to produce future fiscal returns; in the words of a former Aotearoa/New Zealand Prime Minister, they aim to do “more with less”. We argue that big data often provides a poor evidence base for social investment and can, instead, be better understood as part of a panoptic toolkit for poverty governance, mediating continuous surveillance, examination and normalisation of the body politic by enabling the discursive (re)construction of people's identities and subjectivities. This construction serves to exacerbate social inequalities and undermine the rights of ordinary citizens.
Metal‐Templated Design of Chemically Switchable Protein Assemblies with High‐Affinity Coordination Sites
Authors: Kakkis Albert , Gagnon Derek , Esselborn Julian , Britt R. David , Tezcan F. Akif
Published: August 2020

To mimic a hypothetical pathway for protein evolution, we previously tailored a monomeric protein (cyt cb562) for metal‐mediated self‐assembly, followed by re‐design of the resulting oligomers for enhanced stability and metal‐based functions. We show that a single hydrophobic mutation on the cyt cb562surface drastically alters the outcome of metal‐directed oligomerization to yield a new trimeric architecture, (TriCyt1)3.This nascent trimer was redesigned into second and third‐generation variants (TriCyt2)3and (TriCyt3)3with increased structural stability and preorganization for metal coordination. The three TriCyt variants combined furnish a unique platform to 1) provide tunable coupling between protein quaternary structure and metal coordination, 2) enable the construction of metal/pH‐switchable protein oligomerization motifs, and 3) generate a robust metal coordination site that can coordinate all mid‐to‐late first‐row transition‐metal ions with high affinity.
Redox‐Neutral TEMPO Catalysis: Direct Radical (Hetero)Aryl C−H Di‐ and Trifluoromethoxylation
Authors: Lee Johnny W. , Lim Sanghyun , Maienshein Daniel N. , Liu Peng , Ngai Ming‐Yu
Published: August 2020

Applications of TEMPO.catalysis for the development of redox‐neutral transformations are rare. Reported here is the first TEMPO.‐catalyzed, redox‐neutral C−H di‐ and trifluoromethoxylation of (hetero)arenes. The reaction exhibits a broad substrate scope, has high functional‐group tolerance, and can be employed for the late‐stage functionalization of complex druglike molecules. Kinetic measurements, isolation and resubjection of catalytic intermediates, UV/Vis studies, and DFT calculations support the proposed oxidative TEMPO./TEMPO+redox catalytic cycle. Mechanistic studies also suggest that Li2CO3plays an important role in preventing catalyst deactivation. These findings will provide new insights into the design and development of novel reactions through redox‐neutral TEMPO.catalysis.
The Effect of Functional Groups on the Electrocatalytic Activity of Carbon Nanotubes with Different Wall Numbers toward Carbohydrazide Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Wang Haining , Lv Zhaoqian , Zhang Jin , Xiang Yan , Lu Shanfu
Published: August 2020

Carbohydrazide could be applied as fuels for fuel cells to avoid the toxicity of hydrazine. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibit an improved electrocatalytic activity toward carbohydrazide oxidation reaction than other carbon materials like carbon black or multi‐layer graphene, however, the role of defects and functional groups of CNTs for the reaction is not clear. In this study, the electrocatalytic properties of CNTs toward the carbohydrazide oxidation reaction is investigated, which demonstrate that the content of carboxyl groups is crucial to the catalytic activity. The one with higher carboxyl groups exhibits an improved catalytic activity toward carbohydrazide oxidation reaction. Furthermore, density functional theory calculation reveals that the carboxyl groups could increase the adsorption of carbohydrazide molecules on CNTs, which benefits their catalytic activity.
A New Bias Site for Epigenetic Modifications: How Non‐Canonical GC Base Pairs Favor Mechanochemical Cleavage of DNA
Authors: Semyonov Denis A. , Eltsov Ilia V. , Nechipurenko Yury D.
Published: August 2020

Properties of non‐canonical GC base pairs and their relations with mechanochemical cleavage of DNA are analyzed. A hypothesis of the involvement of the transient GC wobble base pairs both in the mechanisms of the mechanochemical cleavage of DNA and epigenetic mechanisms involving of 5‐methylcytosine, is proposed. The hypothesis explains the increase in the frequency of the breaks of the sugar‐phosphate backbone of DNA after cytosines, the asymmetric character of these breaks, and an increase in break frequency in CpG after cytosine methylation. As an alternative hypothesis, probable implication of GC+ Hoogsteen base pairs is considered, which now exemplify the best‐studied non‐canonical GC base pairs in the DNA double helix. Also
see the video abstract here https://youtu.be/EUunVWL0ptw.
Crosstalk between Cell Adhesion Complexes in Regulation of Mechanotransduction
Authors: Zuidema Alba , Wang Wei , Sonnenberg Arnoud
Published: August 2020

Physical forces regulate numerous biological processes during development, physiology, and pathology. Forces between the external environment and intracellular actin cytoskeleton are primarily transmitted through integrin‐containing focal adhesions and cadherin‐containing adherens junctions. Crosstalk between these complexes is well established and modulates the mechanical landscape of the cell. However, integrins and cadherins constitute large families of adhesion receptors and form multiple complexes by interacting with different ligands, adaptor proteins, and cytoskeletal filaments. Recent findings indicate that integrin‐containing hemidesmosomes oppose force transduction and traction force generation by focal adhesions. The cytolinker plectin mediates this crosstalk by coupling intermediate filaments to the actin cytoskeleton. Similarly, cadherins in desmosomes might modulate force generation by adherens junctions. Moreover, mechanotransduction can be influenced by podosomes, clathrin lattices, and tetraspanin‐enriched microdomains. This review discusses mechanotransduction by multiple integrin‐ and cadherin‐based cell adhesion complexes, which together with the associated cytoskeleton form an integrated network that allows cells to sense, process, and respond to their physical environment.
Kinetic modeling of microbial growth, enzyme activity, and gene deletions: An integrated model of β‐glucosidase function in Cellvibrio japonicus
Authors: Hwang Jeanice , Hari Archana , Cheng Raymond , Gardner Jeffrey G. , Lobo Daniel
Published: August 2020

Understanding the complex growth and metabolic dynamics in microorganisms requires advanced kinetic models containing both metabolic reactions and enzymatic regulation to predict phenotypic behaviors under different conditions and perturbations. Most current kinetic models lack gene expression dynamics and are separately calibrated to distinct media, which consequently makes them unable to account for genetic perturbations or multiple substrates. This challenge limits our ability to gain a comprehensive understanding of microbial processes towards advanced metabolic optimizations that are desired for many biotechnology applications. Here, we present an integrated computational and experimental approach for the development and optimization of mechanistic kinetic models for microbial growth and metabolic and enzymatic dynamics. Our approach integrates growth dynamics, gene expression, protein secretion, and gene‐deletion phenotypes. We applied this methodology to build a dynamic model of the growth kinetics in batch culture of the bacterium Cellvibrio japonicus grown using either cellobiose or glucose media. The model parameters were inferred from an experimental data set using an evolutionary computation method. The resulting model was able to explain the growth dynamics of C. japonicus using either cellobiose or glucose media and was also able to accurately predict the metabolite concentrations in the wild‐type strain as well as in β‐glucosidase gene deletion mutant strains. We validated the model by correctly predicting the non‐diauxic growth and metabolite consumptions of the wild‐type strain in a mixed medium containing both cellobiose and glucose, made further predictions of mutant strains growth phenotypes when using cellobiose and glucose media, and demonstrated the utility of the model for designing industrially‐useful strains. Importantly, the model is able to explain the role of the different β‐glucosidases and their behavior under genetic perturbations. This integrated approach can be extended to other metabolic pathways to produce mechanistic models for the comprehensive understanding of enzymatic functions in multiple substrates.
Exploring neural and peripheral physiological correlates of simulator sickness
Authors: Tauscher Jan‐Philipp , Witt Alexandra , Bosse Sebastian , Schottky Fabian W. , Grogorick Steve , Castillo Susana , Magnor Marcus
Published: August 2020

This article investigates neural and physiological correlates of simulator sickness (SS) through a controlled experiment conducted within a fully immersive dome projection system. Our goal is to establish a reliable, objective, and in situ measurable predictive indicator of SS. SS is a problem common to all types of visual simulators consisting of motion sickness‐like symptoms that may be experienced while and after being exposed to a dynamic, immersive visualization. It leads to ethical concerns and impaired validity of simulator‐based research. Due to the popularity of virtual reality devices, the number of people exposed to this problem is increasing and, therefore, it is crucial to find reliable predictors of this condition before any symptoms appear. Despite its relevance and the several theories about its origins, SS cannot yet be quantitatively modeled and predicted. Our results indicate that, while neural correlates did not materialize, physiological measures may be a solid early indicator of oncoming SS.
Conservative approach for management of fractured maxillary central incisors in young adults
Authors: Tinoco Jose Villalobos , Jurado Carlos Alberto , Sayed Mohammed E. , Garcia Cortes Jose Obed , Kaleinikova Zinaida , Hernandez Alfredo , Alshabib Abdulrahman , Tsujimoto Akimasa
Published: August 2020

Ceramic restorations could be an acceptable treatment choice for fractured central incisors. A successful esthetic and conservative result to restore damaged anterior teeth can be obtained through proper evaluation, diagnostic wax‐up, guided minimal preparations, ceramic selection, and bonding protocols. Handcrafted glass‐based restorations can mimic contours and shape of natural teeth.
Stable High‐Pressure Methane Dry Reforming Under Excess of CO2
Authors: Ramirez Adrian , Lee Kunho , Harale Aadesh , Gevers Lieven , Telalovic Selvedin , Al Solami Bandar , Gascon Jorge
Published: August 2020

Dry reforming of methane (DRM), the conversion of carbon dioxide and methane into syngas, offers great promise for the recycling of CO2. However, fast catalyst deactivation, especially at the industrially required high pressure, still hampers this process. Here we present a comprehensive study of DRM operation at high pressure (7–28 bars). Our results demonstrate that, under equimolar CH4 : CO2 mixtures, coke formation is unavoidable at high pressures for all catalysts under study. However, under substoichiometric CH4 : CO2 ratios (1 : 3), a stable high pressure operation can be achieved for most catalysts with no sign of deactivation for at least 60 hours at 14 bars, 800 °C and 7500 h−1. In addition to the enhanced stability, under these conditions, the amount of CO2 abated per mol of CH4 fed increases by a 50 %.
Direct Observation of Dynamic Interactions between Orientation‐Controlled Nucleosomes in a DNA Origami Frame
Authors: Feng Yihong , Hashiya Fumitaka , Hidaka Kumi , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Endo Masayuki
Published: August 2020

The nucleosome is one of the most fundamental units involved in gene expression and consequent cell development, differentiation, and expression of cell functions. We report here a method to place reconstituted nucleosomes into a DNA origami frame for direct observation using high‐speed atomic‐force microscopy (HS‐AFM). By using this method, multiple nucleosomes can be incorporated into a DNA origami frame and real‐time movement of nucleosomes can be visualized. The arrangement and conformation of nucleosomes and the distance between two nucleosomes can be designed and controlled. In addition, four nucleosomes can be placed in a DNA frame. Multiple nucleosomes were well accessible in each conformation. Dynamic movement of the individual nucleosomes were precisely monitored in the DNA frame, and their assembly and interaction were directly observed. Neither mica surface modification nor chemical fixation of nucleosomes is used in this method, meaning that the DNA frame not only holds nucleosomes, but also retains their natural state. This method offers a promising platform for investigating nucleosome interactions and for studying chromatin structure.
The Synthesis and Mechanistic Considerations of a Series of Ammonium Monosubstituted H‐Phosphonate Salts
Authors: Lee Keng Lung , Feld Joey , Hume Paul , Söhnel Tilo , Leitao Erin
Published: August 2020

A series of ammonium monosubstituted H‐phosphonate salts were synthesized by combining H‐phosphonate diesters with amines in the absence of solvent at 80 °C. Variation of the ester substituent and amine produced a range of ionic liquids with low melting points. The products and by‐products were analyzed by spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques in order to get a better mechanistic picture of the dealkylation and formal dearylation observed. For dialkyl H‐phosphonate diesters, (RO)2P(O)H (R=alkyl), the reaction proceeds via direct dealkylation with the reactivity increasing in the order R=iPr<Et<Me corresponding to DFT calculated activation enthalpies of 22.6, 20.8, and 17.9 kcal mol−1. For the diphenyl H‐phosphonate diesters, (PhO)2P(O)H, the dearylation was found to proceed via phenol‐assisted formation of a 5‐coordinate intermediate, (PhO)3PH(OH), from which P(OPh)3 and water were eliminated. The presence of an equivalent of water then facilitated the formation of P(OH)2OPh and the amine, R'NH2, subsequently abstracted a proton from it to yield [(PhO)PH(O)O]‐[R'NH3]+.
Smart Shell‐by‐Shell Nanoparticles with Tunable Perylene Fluorescence in the Organic Interlayer
Authors: Stiegler Lisa M. S. , Klein Stefanie , Kryschi Carola , Neuhuber Winfried , Hirsch Andreas
Published: August 2020

A new series of shell‐by‐shell (SbS)‐functionalized Al2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) containing a perylene core in the organic interlayer as a fluorescence marker is introduced. Initially, the NPs were functionalized with both, a fluorescent perylene phosphonic acid derivative, together with the lipophilic hexadecylphosphonic acid or the fluorophilic (1 H,1 H,2 H,2H‐perfluorodecyl)phosphonic acid. The lipophilic first‐shell functionalized NPs were further implemented with amphiphiles built of aliphatic chains and polar head‐groups. However, the fluorophilic NPs were combined with amphiphiles consisting of fluorocarbon tails and polar head‐groups. Depending on the nature of the combined phosphonic acids and the amphiphiles, tuning of the perylene fluorescence can be accomplished due variations of supramolecular organization with the shell interface. Because the SbS‐functionalized NPs dispose excellent dispersibility in water and in biological media, two sorts of NPs with different surface properties were tested with respect to biological fluorescent imaging applications. Depending on the agglomeration of the NPs, the cellular uptake differs. The uptake of larger agglomerates is facilitated by endocytosis, whereas individualized NPs cross directly the cellular membrane. Also, the larger agglomerates were preferentially incorporated by all tested cells.
Canakinumab to reduce deterioration of cardiac and respiratory function in SARS‐CoV‐2 associated myocardial injury with heightened inflammation (canakinumab in Covid‐19 cardiac injury: The three C study)
Authors: Sheng Calvin C , Sahoo Debasis , Dugar Siddharth , Prada Robier Aguillon , Wang Tom Kai Ming , Abou Hassan Ossama K , Brennan Danielle , Culver Daniel A , Rajendram Prabalini , Duggal Abhijit , Lincoff A Michael , Nissen Steven E , Menon Venu , Cremer Paul C
Published: August 2020

Background

In patients with Covid‐19, myocardial injury and increased inflammation are associated with morbidity and mortality. We designed a proof‐of‐concept randomized controlled trial to evaluate whether treatment with canakinumab prevents progressive respiratory failure and worsening cardiac dysfunction in patients with SARS‐CoV2 infection, myocardial injury, and high levels of inflammation.

Hypothesis

The primary hypothesis is that canakiumab will shorten time to recovery.

Methods

The three C study (canakinumab in Covid‐19 Cardiac Injury, NCT04365153) is a double‐blind, randomized controlled trial comparing canakinumab 300 mg IV, 600 mg IV, or placebo in a 1:1:1 ratio in hospitalized Covid‐19 patients with elevations in troponin and C‐reactive protein (CRP). The primary endpoint is defined as the time in days from randomization to either an improvement of two points on a seven category ordinal scale or discharge from the hospital, whichever occurs first up to 14 days postrandomization. The secondary endpoint is mortality at day 28. A total of 45 patients will be enrolled with an anticipated 5 month follow up period.

Results

Baseline characteristics for the first 20 randomized patients reveal a predominantly male (75%), elderly population (median 67 years) with a high prevalence of hypertension (80%) and hyperlipidemia (75%). CRPs have been markedly elevated (median 16.2 mg/dL) with modest elevations in high‐sensitivity troponin T (median 21 ng/L), in keeping with the concept of enrolling patients with early myocardial injury.

Conclusions

The three C study will provide insights regarding whether IL‐1β inhibition may improve outcomes in patients with SARS‐CoV2 associated myocardial injury and increased inflammation.
Single‐session Comprehend, Cope, and Connect intervention in acute and crisis psychology: A feasibility and acceptability study
Authors: Bullock Jonathan , Whiteley Christopher , Moakes Kaylee , Clarke Isabel , Riches Simon
Published: August 2020

Comprehend, Cope, and Connect (CCC) is a third‐wave cognitive behavioural approach developed for acute mental health services. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility and acceptability of a newly developed, manualized single‐session CCC intervention delivered face‐to‐face with service users in acute and crisis psychology services in South London. The study adopted a within‐subjects pre‐post‐test design. Participants (N = 23) were recruited from five acute psychiatric wards and a crisis resolution home treatment team. Service users had a range of diagnoses of complex and severe mental health conditions, in particular mood, personality, and psychotic disorders. Feasibility data were gathered for number of times the CCC formulation was accepted, duration of CCC intervention, clinician adherence to manualised protocol, and frequency of goal‐based activity completion. Acceptability data on pre‐ and post‐CCC mood and post‐CCC helpfulness were self‐reported by participants. Findings indicated a significant increase in positive mood (large effect) and moderate–high helpfulness rating postintervention. Most participants reported goal‐based activity completion. There was high fidelity to the protocol, high percentage of acceptance of the formulation and formulation components completed, and frequent single‐session completion. Single‐session CCC appears feasible and acceptable in acute and crisis psychology services and yields formulation‐driven goal‐based activities intended to stabilize mental health crisis. High fidelity to formulation protocol suggests broader applications for single‐session CCC, for example, to support clinical staff to manage crisis situations in their work environment or to train nonpsychologist clinicians to deliver the intervention for service users. A randomized controlled trial of single‐session CCC would increase validity and generalisability of findings.
Octoploid zoysiagrass: Origin, stability, characteristics, and breeding behavior
Authors: Quesenberry Kenneth , Kenworthy Kevin , Buhlman Jamie , Chase Kathryn , Carter Zach , Benda Nicole
Published: August 2020

All known species of zoysiagrass are tetraploids (2n = 4x = 40) but octoploids have been reported. This research was conducted to evaluate ploidy variability from a stand of zoysiagrass where an 8xclone (E11) originated, and to characterize progeny from E11 and other ploidy variable clones. Clone ploidy was determined by flow cytometry and clones and progeny were assessed for aboveground and belowground morphological variability. Clone E11 was confirmed as 8xwith a G1 peak twice that of ‘SS‐500’ (Empire, Sod Solutions, Inc.). Among 31 clones from the field where E11 originated, 20 were tetraploid, but 11 showed two flow cytometry peaks of similar numbers of events – one at a 4xvalue like Empire and a second at an 8xvalue like E11. From the group of 11 clones, three clones (C62, C96, and C107) that initially had double peaks reverted back to the 4xlevel, two (C92 and C105) stabilized at 8x, and six (C4‐1, B10, C13, I31, C87, and C93) continued to show double peaks. Progeny from C62 and C96 were only 4x. Progeny from the E11, C92, and C105 were all 8xexcept for one 6xplant among eight progeny of C105. Progeny from two clones with double peaks (C4‐1 and C93) were only 8x. These results show that, with variable ploidy of histogenic layers, a progeny generation is needed to stabilize 8xlines. Morphology studies showed that E11 generally followed the expected trend of increased size of vegetative and floral parts and root morphology found with chromosome doubling.
Analysis of capacitance spread reduction techniques for 50‐Hz switched‐capacitor notch filters
Authors: Serra Hugo , Oliveira João Pedro , Paulino Nuno
Published: August 2020

This paper presents an overview of design techniques to reduce the capacitance spread of SC notch filters. Three of these techniques are used in the design of a 50‐Hz notch filter, intended for an internet of things (IoT) water management sensor node. In this application, due to the high sampling frequency required by the acquisition channel's ADC, the filter's Fs/fp ratio becomes excessively large, resulting in a capacitance spread of 3225.8, if a conventional SC implementation is used. Using charge division networks, with up to seven share/reset cycles, the filter's capacitance spread is reduced by a factor 12.9 and the total capacitance by 5.9, and a total power dissipation of approximately 262 μW, for a supply voltage of 0.9 V. Using capacitive T‐cell networks, the filter's capacitance spread is reduced by a factor 40.5 and the total capacitance by 14.2. Using partial charge transfer networks, the filter's capacitance spread is improved by a factor 41.6, and the total capacitance by 10.0. The filter's total power consumption, using the last two techniques, is approximately 11 μW.
OMIP‐069: Forty‐Color Full Spectrum Flow Cytometry Panel for Deep Immunophenotyping of Major Cell Subsets in Human Peripheral Blood
Authors: Park Lily M. , Lannigan Joanne , Jaimes Maria C.
Published: August 2020

PURPOSE AND APPROPRIATE SAMPLE TYPES

This 40‐color flow cytometry‐based panel was developed for in‐depth immunophenotyping of the major cell subsets present in human peripheral blood. Sample availability can often be limited, especially in cases of clinical trial material, when multiple types of testing are required from a single sample or timepoint. Maximizing the amount of information that can be obtained from a single sample not only provides more in‐depth characterization of the immune system but also serves to address the issue of limited sample availability. The panel presented here identifies CD4 T cells, CD8 T cells, regulatory T cells, γδ T cells, NKT‐like cells, B cells, NK cells, monocytes and dendritic cells. For each specific cell type, the panel includes markers for further characterization by including a selection of activation and differentiation markers, as well as chemokine receptors. Moreover, the combination of multiple markers in one tube might lead to the discovery of new immune phenotypes and their relevance in certain diseases. Of note, this panel was designed to include only surface markers to avoid the need for fixation and permeabilization steps. The panel can be used for studies aimed at characterizing the immune response in the context of infectious or autoimmune diseases, monitoring cancer patients on immuno‐ or chemotherapy, and discovery of unique and targetable biomarkers. Different from all previously published OMIPs, this panel was developed using a full spectrum flow cytometer, a technology that has allowed the effective use of 40 fluorescent markers in a single panel. The panel was developed using cryopreserved human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy adults (Table 1). Although we have not tested the panel on fresh PBMCs or whole blood, it is anticipated that the panel could be used in those sample preparations without further optimization. @ 2020 Cytek Biosciences, Inc. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Fine‐needle aspiration of parathyroid adenomas: Indications as a diagnostic approach
Authors: Suzuki Ayana , Hirokawa Mitsuyoshi , Kanematsu Risa , Tanaka Aki , Yamao Naoki , Higuchi Miyoko , Hayashi Toshitetsu , Kuma Seiji , Miya Akihiro , Miyauchi Akira
Published: August 2020

Background

We aimed to determine the indication of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) for parathyroid adenoma (PA)‐suspected nodules and the cytological features of PA, and to discuss the ancillary techniques for diagnostic confirmation.

Method

Clinical, cytological, and histological examinations of 15 PA patients (4.0% of all PA resected patients) were conducted through FNA on 16 nodules. We also examined the cytological preparations of 10 follicular neoplasms (FNs) and 10 poorly differentiated thyroid carcinomas (PDTCs).

Results

FNA was performed to detect PA in nine (56.3%) nodules. The remaining seven (43.8%) nodules underwent FNA for lesions considered as thyroid nodules or lymph nodes. The levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the aspiration needle washout fluid were observably high, except for that from one nodule with unsatisfactory FNA. Cytologically, the incidences of wedge pattern (86.7%) and salt and pepper chromatin (86.7%) in PAs were significantly higher than in FNs and PDTCs. In contrast, the appearance of colloid globules and nuclear grooves was less frequent than that of FNs and PDTCs. GATA‐3 expression was intense in all PAs that immunocytochemistry were performed. Histologically, capsular invasion and/or laceration, tumor seeding, granulation tissue, and fibrosis were observed.

Conclusions

When PA localization is unusual or inconclusive despite extensive imaging, FNA may be performed. We asserted that wedge pattern, salt and pepper chromatin, and the absence of colloid globules and nuclear grooves are diagnostic cytological indicators of PA rather than of FN or PDTC. We recommend PTH measurements using needle washout fluid for PA‐suspected nodules, and immunocytochemistry with the GATA‐3 antibody for cytologically PA‐suspected nodules.
Analytical profile of N‐ethyl‐N‐cyclopropyl lysergamide (ECPLA), an isomer of lysergic acid 2,4‐dimethylazetidide (LSZ)
Authors: Brandt Simon D. , Kavanagh Pierce V. , Westphal Folker , Stratford Alexander , Elliott Simon P. , Dowling Geraldine , Halberstadt Adam L.
Published: August 2020

Recent investigations have shown that N‐ethyl‐N‐cyclopropyl lysergamide (ECPLA) produces LSD‐like behavioral effects in mice, which suggests that it may act as a hallucinogen in humans. Although the use of ECPLA as a recreational drug has been limited, key analytical data that can be used to detect ECPLA are required for future forensic and clinical investigations. ECPLA is an isomer of (2′S,4′S)‐lysergic acid 2,4‐dimethylazetidide (LSZ), a lysergamide that emerged as a recreational drug in 2013. Several analytical approaches were examined, including single‐ and tandem mass spectrometry platforms at low and high resolution, gas‐ and liquid chromatography (GC, LC), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and GC condensed‐phase infrared spectroscopy (GC‐sIR). ECPLA and LSZ could be differentiated by NMR, GC‐sIR, GC, and LC‐based methods. The electron ionization mass spectra of ECPLA and LSZ contained ion clusters typically observed with related lysergamides such as m/z 150–155, m/z 177–182, m/z 191–197, m/z 205–208, and m/z 219–224. One of the significant differences in abundance related to these clusters included ions at m/z 196 and m/z 207/208. The base peaks were detected at m/z 221 in both cases followed by the retro‐Diels‐Alder fragment at m/z 292. Minor but noticeable differences between the two isomers could also be seen in the relative abundance of m/z 98 and m/z 41. Electrospray ionization mass spectra included lysergamide‐related ions at m/z 281, 251, 223, 208, 197, 180, and 140. LSZ (but not ECPLA) showed product ions at m/z 267 and m/z 98 under the conditions used.
Create admissions marketing materials that are inclusive, authentic
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: August 2020

Wanting to feel a bond with the people we're speaking with — that's why Tony Sarda thinks taking an inclusive approach when creating admissions marketing materials is important.
Understand practice, compliance issues of pandemic‐driven telework environment
Authors: Porter Michael
Published: August 2020

Through jarring, health‐crisis‐driven forced closures, the vast majority of employees for many colleges and universities began conducting their work from home. As institutions phase into the next academic year, ongoing telework arrangements and employment laws are likely to become more prominent administration challenges and legal risk areas.
What is cohort marketing and why is it needed now?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: August 2020

Last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned his Communist Party comrades to be prepared for unforeseen incidents (black swans) and uncontrollable rampages (gray rhinos) in the year to come.
The density characteristics of CO2 and alkane mixtures using PC‐SAFT EoS
Authors: Chi Yuan , Liu Shuyang , Jian Weiwei , Zhao Changzhong , Lv Junchen , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2020

The density of CO2 + crude oil mixtures is one of the most important parameters influencing CO2 diffusion and migration in oil reservoirs. However, it would be quite time consuming to obtain comprehensive density data for CO2 + alkane mixtures over a wide range of temperatures and pressures via experimental methods, therefore the development of a reliable model for predicting the densities of various CO2 + alkane mixtures with high accuracy is crucial. In this paper, the parameters (m, σ, and ε/k) in the perturbed‐chain statistical associating fluid theory (PC‐SAFT) Equation of State (EoS) were optimized by correlating density data of pure n‐alkanes from heptane to nonadecane (except undecane and hexadecane). For comparison, the G‐S PC‐SAFT and HTHP PC‐SAFT EoS(s) were also employed to fit the densities of these n‐alkanes, and the results demonstrated that the PC‐SAFT EoS with the optimized parameters in this study exhibited superior accuracy. Subsequently, by correlating density data of CO2 + alkane mixtures containing C7–C14 alkanes, the binary interaction parameter kij was optimized. Furthermore, for the first time, correlations between the optimized parameters (m, σ, ε/k, and kij) and alkane carbon number (n) were established. These correlations provided PC‐SAFT EoS with a good universality and scalability for density prediction. Using the parameters calculated from these correlations, the densities of hexadecane and saturated CO2 + alkane mixtures containing C10–C20 alkanes were successfully predicted with relatively high accuracy. This work provides a new way for modeling the thermodynamic properties of CO2 + alkane mixtures. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.