bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GAS5 protects against osteoporosis by targeting UPF1/SMAD7 axis in osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Li Ming , Xie Zhongyu , Li Jinteng , Lin Jiajie , Zheng Guan , Liu Wenjie , Tang Su'an , Cen Shuizhong , Ye Guiwen , Li Zhaofeng , Yu Wenhui , Wang Peng , Wu Yanfeng , Shen Huiyong
Published: October 2020

Osteoporosis is a common systemic skeletal disorder resulting in bone fragility and increased fracture risk. It is still necessary to explore its detailed mechanisms and identify novel targets for the treatment of osteoporosis. Previously, we found that a lncRNA named GAS5 in human could negatively regulate the lipoblast/adipocyte differentiation. However, it is still unclear whether GAS5 affects osteoblast differentiation and whether GAS5 is associated with osteoporosis. Our current research found that GAS5 was decreased in the bones and BMSCs, a major origin of osteoblast, of osteoporosis patients. Mechanistically, GAS5 promotes the osteoblast differentiation by interacting with UPF1 to degrade SMAD7 mRNA. Moreover, a decreased bone mass and impaired bone repair ability were observed in Gas5 heterozygous mice, manifesting in osteoporosis. The systemic supplement of Gas5-overexpressing adenoviruses significantly ameliorated bone loss in an osteoporosis mouse model. In conclusion, GAS5 promotes osteoblast differentiation by targeting the UPF1/SMAD7 axis and protects against osteoporosis.
Comparing local ancestry inference models in populations of two- and three-way admixture
Authors: Schubert Ryan , Andaleon Angela , Wheeler Heather E.
Published: October 2020

Local ancestry estimation infers the regional ancestral origin of chromosomal segments in admixed populations using reference populations and a variety of statistical models. Integrating local ancestry into complex trait genetics has the potential to increase detection of genetic associations and improve genetic prediction models in understudied admixed populations, including African Americans and Hispanics. Five methods for local ancestry estimation that have been used in human complex trait genetics are LAMP-LD (2012), RFMix (2013), ELAI (2014), Loter (2018), and MOSAIC (2019). As users rather than developers, we sought to perform direct comparisons of accuracy, runtime, memory usage, and usability of these software tools to determine which is best for incorporation into association study pipelines. We find that in the majority of cases RFMix has the highest median accuracy with the ranking of the remaining software dependent on the ancestral architecture of the population tested. Additionally, we estimate the O(n) of both memory and runtime for each software and find that for both time and memory most software increase linearly with respect to sample size. The only exception is RFMix, which increases quadratically with respect to runtime and linearly with respect to memory. Effective local ancestry estimation tools are necessary to increase diversity and prevent population disparities in human genetics studies. RFMix performs the best across methods, however, depending on application, other methods perform just as well with the benefit of shorter runtimes. Scripts used to format data, run software, and estimate accuracy can be found at https://github.com/WheelerLab/LAI_benchmarking.
An immunoinformatics approach for the design of a multi-epitope subunit vaccine for urogenital schistosomiasis
Authors: Onile Olugbenga S. , Fadahunsi Adeyinka I. , Adekunle Ameerah A. , Oyeyemi Bolaji F. , Anumudu Chiaka I.
Published: October 2020

Discovery of T and B memory cells capable of eliciting long-term immunity against schistosomiasisis is important for people in endemic areas. Changes in schistosomes environment due to developmental cycle, induces up-regulation of Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) which assist the parasite in coping with the hostile conditions associated with its life cycle. This study therefore focused on exploring the role of HSPs in urogenital schistosomiasis to develop new multi-epitope subunit vaccine against the disease using immunoinformatic approaches. The designed subunit vaccine was subjected to in silico antigenicity, immunogenicity, allergenicity and physicochemical parameters analysis. A 3D structure of the vaccine construct was predicted, followed by disulphide engineering for stability, codon adaptation and in silico cloning for proper expression and molecular protein–protein docking of vaccine construct in the vector against toll-like receptor 4 receptor, respectively. Consequently, a 493 amino acid multi-epitope vaccine construct of antigenicity probability of 0.91 was designed. This was predicted to be stable, non-allergenic in nature and safe for human use.
A basilosaurid archaeocete (Cetacea, Pelagiceti) from the Late Eocene of Oregon, USA
Authors: Uhen Mark D. , Taylor David
Published: October 2020

Background

Basilosaurid archaeocetes are known from the Late Eocene of virtually all coastlines bearing coeval marine rocks except the North Pacific Basin, until now. Here we report on three consecutive posterior thoracic vertebrae of a large, basilosaurid archaeocete from a Late Eocene horizon in the Keasey Formation in Oregon.

Methods

These vertebrae were morphologically and morphometrically compared to other vertebrae of similar age from around the world.

Results

The specimens were determined to be different from all currently named species of fossil cetacean, but most similar to those found in the Gulf Coast region of North America. These vertebrae represent the first confirmed specimen of a Late Eocene basilosaurid from the North Pacific. These and other basilosaurids known only from vertebrae are reviewed here in the context of Late Eocene paleoceanography and cetacean evolution.
A novel dual MEK/PDK1 inhibitor 9za retards the cell cycle at G0/G1 phase and induces mitochondrial apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Liu Rangru , Yu Zutao , Chen Zhuo , Liu Danqi , Huang Fengying , Li Qianbin , Hu Gaoyun , Yi Xinan , Li Xi , Zhou Honghao , Liu Zhaoqian
Published: October 2020

Background

A novel dual MEK/PDK1 inhibitor named 9za has been synthesized by our research team. Preliminary study showed that 9za possessed potent cytotoxicity and proapoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Nevertheless, the precise underlying mechanism is vague.

Methods

In this work, we adopted the MTT assay, the Cell Cycle Detection Kit, and the JC-1 staining assay to detect the cell viability, the cell cycle distribution and the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), respectively. Cell apoptosis was measured by the morphology observation under a light microscope, Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide (PI) apoptosis detection and the colorimetric TUNEL assay. Western blot was used to monitor the cell cycle-, apoptosis-related proteins and relevant proteins involved in the signaling pathways.

Results

The MTT assay demonstrated that 9za sharply decreased the viability of NSCLC cells. Cell cycle analysis revealed that low concentrations of 9za arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase , which was further confirmed by the decreased levels of Cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) and cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6). Additionally, morphological observations, Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide (PI) apoptosis analysis and TUNEL assays indicated that high concentrations of 9za induced cell apoptosis. Furthermore, the JC-1 staining assay revealed that the mitochondrial membrane potential was downregulated following 9za exposure. Western blot also showed that 9za markedly decreased the expression levels of total Bcl-2, Cytochrome C in the mitochondria and BCL2 associated X (BAX) in the cytoplasm. However, the levels of BAX in the mitochondria, Cytochrome C in the cytoplasm, active caspase-9, active caspase-3 and cleaved–PARP showed the opposite changes. Moreover, the dose-dependent decreased phosphorylation levels of PDK1, protein kinase B (Akt), MEK and extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) after 9za treatment verified that 9za was indeed a dual MEK/PDK1 inhibitor, as we expected. Compared with a single MEK inhibitor PD0325901 or a single PDK1 inhibitor BX517, the dual MEK/PDK1 inhibitor 9za could strengthen the cytotoxic and proapoptotic effect, indicating that the double blocking of the MEK and PDK1 signaling pathways plays stronger cell growth inhibition and apoptosis induction roles than the single blocking of the MEK or PDK1 signaling pathway in NSCLC cells. Our work elucidated the molecular mechanisms for 9za as a novel drug candidate against NSCLC.
The Influence of Tax Education on Obeying Tax Liability: A Statistical Methods and Results
Authors: Shamana Tizazu Toma , Alito Woldeselassie Azige
Published: October 2020

Backgrounds: In Ethiopia, taxpayers are categorized as small, medium or large depending on their business turnover or levels of income. Irrespective of one's category, taxpayers in Ethiopia, particularly Wolaita Sodo town are required to comply with VAT, TOT, Income Tax, Withholding Taxes and Customs duties in equal measure. Taxpayers will readily accept any new system introduced if they have ample knowledge to understand the system. Thus, education programs organized by custom and duty authority or public education institutions are required to enhance taxpayers' ability to understand the importance of tax on country's economic development and to increase their confidence in fulfilling their responsibilities as taxpayers. By considering the above issues, the researcher interested to investigate the influence of tax education on tax compliance attitude of taxpayers by conducting an experiment on the taxpayer in Wolaita Sodo town. The general objective of the study was to investigate the influence of tax education on tax compliance in Wolaita Sodo town.

Methods: The target population for the survey study was actual taxpayers who are subject for business income tax. Only unincorporated business taxpayers in Wolaiata Sodo town are used as participants in the survey study. The target total population is 11,278 business income taxpayers as of July 2017 which is categorized under A, B and C. Only 160 taxpayers were selected by using simple random sampling from Wolaiata Sodo town. Questions regarding employment income, business income, turn over tax, and excise and value-added taxes are asked. Respondents are also asked to state whether the direct cost of producing the income, such as the direct cost of manufacturing, purchasing and selling costs shall be deductible from gross income in calculating taxable business income. Before and after the experiment (tax education) respondents were asked to check whether they know basic taxation rules. And their marks scored for the 7 basic questions after and before tax education out of 50 marks are recorded.

Results: Majority of the respondents after attending the tax course scored high value regarding the tax knowledge. There is a great difference between the tax compliance attitude of these respondents before and after attending the tax course. Before attending the tax course, majority of respondents showed the plan of not complying with tax laws. But after attending the tax course, the majority of the respondents proves the identification of taxable and non-taxable income types. Generally, it resulted that the tax knowledge of respondents is improved after attending the tax course.
An Examination of Patients’ Knowledge of Health Delivery Services in Tertiary-bound Health Institution
Authors: John Micah, Damilola , Akinde . , Israel Sunday
Published: October 2020

Supply of health services in teaching hospital usually provides confidence among users and this explains high patronage. Yet the bureaucratic characteristic of the hospital is a major concern. This study was designed to explore in-patients’ knowledge of healthy services in a tertiary bound hospital and how this shaped patronage among users. Cross sectional design and multi stage sampling (purposive, random, systematic and accidental) was adopted. Some 420 sample, respondents were determined and used. Data were collected and analysed at quantitative and qualitative level, using statistics and text. Mean age of respondents was 42 years and 69.8% were married, while 44.0% were self employed. Respondents (98.8%) reported knowledge that patients had power to report health problems to medical officers which provide clear path for treatment. Similarly, 98.1% adequately know that medical doctors ultimately recommended treatment investigation or regimen. Although 96.1% abundantly distinguished the role of nurses and other paramedics in the teaching hospital, yet availability of equipment (97.1%), access to pharmacy (94.0%), clean hospital environment (95.0%), patients’ knowledge of treatment (79.0%) and confidence in quality of service contributed to unbroken patronage. Knowledge was rated high (55.7%), moderate (27.6%) and low (16.7%) and this was strongly because the hospital operated patient oriented goal and flexible communication system which incorporated patients’ inclusion. Desire to discontinue patronage and consultation was strongly reported by patients with low knowledge who perceived that vital information of their health investigation was concealed from them. Tertiary hospital must operate inclusive information system to improve health seeking behavior among users.
Influence of the Polymer Interphase Structure on the Interaction between Metal and Semicrystalline Thermoplastics
Authors: Chu Liangyong , Grouve Wouter J. B. , van Drongelen Martin , Guha Yash , de Vries Erik G. , Akkerman Remko , de Rooij Matthijn B.
Published: October 2020

It is demonstrated that a lamellar crystalline structure may form near the metal–polymer interface during the comolding of metal–thermoplastic joints. The influence of the crystalline morphology near the interface on the rupture behavior of the joint is studied experimentally. High‐resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR–SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and optical microscopy are used to characterize the microstructure of the metal–thermoplastic interface. The results show that a lamellar crystalline structure at the interface promotes cohesive failure, i.e., the crack runs in the polymer. Additional experiments show that a transcrystalline polymer structure at the interface results in failure at the interface. Herein, two methodologies have been developed to characterize the formation of the transcrystalline polymer interphase structure based on X‐ray diffraction and polarized light hot stage microscopy. The results show the importance of the polymer interphase structure for metal–thermoplastic interactions. Understanding of the formation of the polymer interphase and its influence on the interfacial bonding strength are vital for thermoplastic applications such as fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites, tool surface design for processing of thermoplastics, and their composites as well as for metal–polymer hybrid joints.
Anisotropic Mechanical Properties of Graphene Nanosheet–Reinforced Powder Metallurgy Nickel‐Based Superalloy
Authors: Gao Yu-Xi , Zou Jin-Wen , Wang Xiao-Feng , Yang Jie , Wang Hua-Ming
Published: October 2020

Herein, a graphene nanosheet (GNS)/nickel‐based superalloy matrix composite with certain orientated GNS is fabricated via the powder metallurgy method. The solution mixing method is applied to obtain a superalloy powder with embedded GNS. Well‐arranged GNS in the composite can be obtained by subsequent hot isostatic pressing, isothermal extrusion, and isothermal forging, which lead to anisotropic mechanical properties with ductility in radial and tangential direction better than in axial directions. Consequently, a moderate strength improvement (111–116 MPa at 0.1 wt% GNS) is achieved in the composite without losing its ductility in radial and tangential direction, while the elongation reduces from 21.0% to 15.7% in the axial direction. When the loads are perpendicular and parallel to the GNS alignment direction, respectively, two different interface failure modes of “GNS interlayer delamination” and “GNS pulled out” are caused, which result in the anisotropic mechanical behavior. This finding may provide a new perception in informing the strengthening behaviors of GNS‐reinforced FGH96 composite.
Self‐Deposition of 2D Molybdenum Sulfides on Liquid Metals
Authors: Wang Yifang , Mayyas Mohannad , Yang Jiong , Tang Jianbo , Ghasemian Mohammad B. , Han Jialuo , Elbourne Aaron , Daeneke Torben , Kaner Richard B. , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kourosh
Published: October 2020

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) play increasingly significant roles in research and future optoelectronics. However, the large‐scale deposition of 2D TMDs remains challenging due to sparse nucleation and substrate dependency. Liquid metals can offer effective solutions to meet these challenges due to their reactive, non‐polarized, and templating properties. Here, self‐deposition of 2D molybdenum sulfide is shown by introducing a molybdenum precursor onto the surface of a eutectic alloy of gallium and indium (EGaIn). EGaIn serves as an ultra‐smooth template and reducing agent for the precursor to form large‐scale planar molybdenum sulfides, which is transferrable to any substrate. The molybdenum sulfides form spontaneously on the surface of EGaIn, which has a sufficient potential to drive the cathodic reactions of the deposition process. A highly crystalline 2H‐MoS2 is obtained after a final annealing step. This work demonstrates a fundamentally new capability for the formation of large‐scale 2D TMDs.
Squeezing a Prism into a Surface: Emulating Bulk Optics with Achromatic Metasurfaces
Authors: Tsilipakos Odysseas , Kafesaki Maria , Economou Eleftherios N. , Soukoulis Costas M. , Koschny Thomas
Published: October 2020

Metasurfaces promise to replace bulky prisms and lenses with 2D surfaces, revolutionizing wavefront control with technologically significant advantages in size, weight, and planar fabrication. However, conventional implementations suffer from large chromatic aberrations and cannot sustain performance over practical bandwidths of real‐world signals because of the limited phase modulation margin available in a surface. How can an infinitely thin surface generate the arbitrarily large, broadband phase delay that bulk phase accumulation can provide? Here, equivalence between bulk optics and certain multiresonant metasurfaces is demonstrated, where phase delay arises from trains of multiple resonances in the effective sheet conductivities of the surface itself instead of accumulation of propagation phase. The fundamentally required electromagnetic surface conductivities of a purely achromatic metasurface are derived and general design rules for arbitrarily broadband beam steering and lensing are obtained. Both operation in transmission and reflection can be achieved in a unified way by proper alignment of the resonances, enabling 360° directionality. The arbitrary spectral bandwidth, dual reflection/transmission operation, and complete dispensability of propagation phase constitute a major advance in the state of the art of achromatic metasurfaces for wavefront manipulation.
Near‐Infrared Fluorescence from Silicon‐ and Nickel‐Based Color Centers in High‐Pressure High‐Temperature Diamond Micro‐ and Nanoparticles
Authors: Shames Alexander I. , Dalis Adamos , Greentree Andrew D. , Gibson Brant C. , Abe Hiroshi , Ohshima Takeshi , Shenderova Olga , Zaitsev Alexander , Reineck Philipp
Published: October 2020

Fluorescent color centers in diamond are invaluable room temperature quantum systems in fundamental scientific studies and vital for many emerging applications from inertial navigation to quantum sensing in biology. Yet, controlled production of specific color centers in synthetic diamond at scale remains challenging. Characteristics of silicon‐ and nickel‐based defects with strong fluorescence in the 700–950 nm spectral region formed in Si‐ and Ni‐doped diamond, created via high‐pressure high‐temperature synthesis in commercial quantities without irradiation, are reported. Using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy, the presence of defects including the negatively charged silicon‐vacancy (SiV−), silicon‐boron (SiB) and positively charged substitutional nickel center (Nis+) in micrometer‐sized particles is identified and quantified. The color centers’ optical properties are investigated via time‐resolved and steady‐state fluorescence spectroscopy below 10 K and at room temperature. In ensemble measurements, the particles show no detectable signals from nitrogen‐vacancy (NV−) defects. The particles’ relative fluorescence brightness is quantified and compared to particles containing ≈1 ppm NV− centers. It is demonstrated that the Nis+ center fluorescence characteristics are preserved in 50 nm nanoparticles. The work paves the way for the use of fluorescent nanodiamonds in the first near‐infrared biological window between 700 nm and 950 nm in biomedical applications.
Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of α‐Trifluoromethylacrylates from Trifluoroborylacrylates via Stereoretentive Radical Trifluoromethylation
Authors: Jos Swetha , Santos Webster L.
Published: October 2020

We report the synthesis of α‐trifluoromethylacrylates from α‐trifluoroborylacrylates via a stereoretentive radical trifluoromethylation with inexpensive reagents NaSO2CF3 and TBHP at room temperature. Under these conditions, a wide substrate scope afforded the (E)‐diastereomer exclusively in moderate to good yield. The utility of the reaction products is demonstrated in the synthesis of phenyl‐4H‐pyran, a potent and selective class of IKCa channel blockers.

magnified image
Formal Ring Contraction of Cyclic N‐Sulfonamides via C−N Bond Cleavage and α‐Amination by Oxidation of Halides
Authors: Nishiguchi Yuna , Tomizuka Akihiko , Moriyama Katsuhiko
Published: October 2020

An oxidative C−N bond cleavage reaction of substituted cyclic sulfonamides that proceeds via oxidation of bromide ion in hydrogen bromide solution was developed to furnish N‐sulfonamide‐protected acyclic amino ketones in high yields. The subsequent α‐amination of the amino ketones via the oxidation of iodide in tetrabutylammonium iodide provided 2‐acyl cyclic sulfonamides in good yields. The combination of these transformations involving the oxidation of halides resulted in a formal ring contraction of substituted cyclic amides.

magnified image
Preventing thrombosis in a COVID‐19 patient by combined therapy with nafamostat and heparin during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Doi Shunichi , Akashi Yoshihiro J. , Takita Mumon , Yoshida Hideki , Morikawa Daiki , Ishibashi Yuki , Higuma Takumi , Fujitani Shigeki
Published: October 2020

Background

Preventing thrombosis in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can be life‐saving in cases of coronavirus disease (COVID‐19); however, circuit thrombosis is a complication. This report describes a COVID‐19 patient treated with nafamostat and heparin to prevent circuit thrombosis during ECMO support.

Case presentation

A 63‐year‐old man was transferred to our hospital with respiratory failure due to COVID‐19 pneumonia. He was provided venous‐venous ECMO to maintain oxygenation. During ECMO support, occlusive circuit thrombosis developed despite systemic anticoagulation therapy with heparin. He was subsequently given combination therapy with nafamostat and heparin. Although the combination therapy could prevent circuit thrombosis, it was converted to heparin monotherapy because of hyperkalemia and hemothorax. After tracheostomy and a gradual improvement in oxygenation, ECMO was discontinued. He was transferred to another hospital for further rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Combination therapy with nafamostat and heparin can prevent circuit thrombosis during ECMO. However, bleeding can still develop with this combination therapy during ECMO.
Rational Assembly of Metallophilic Gold(I)–Lead(II) and Gold(I)–Gold(I) Puzzle Pieces
Authors: López‐de‐Luzuriaga José M. , Monge Miguel , Moreno Sonia , Olmos M. Elena , Rodríguez‐Castillo María
Published: October 2020

The assembly of two different building blocks, [{Au(C6F5)2}{PbCl(terpy)}] (terpy=2,2′:6′:2′′‐terpyridine) and [{Au(C6F5)2}2{Pb(terpy)}]n, acting as terminal or central pieces, respectively, gives rise to a decanuclear complex built via metallophilic and π‐stacking interactions in which the number of AuI⋅⋅⋅AuI and AuI⋅⋅⋅PbII contacts is finely controlled.
Controlled Dimerization and Bonding Scheme of Icosahedral M@Au12 (M=Pd, Pt) Superatoms
Authors: Ito Emi , Takano Shinjiro , Nakamura Toshikazu , Tsukuda Tatsuya
Published: October 2020

Targeted syntheses of MM′Au36(PET)24 (M, M′=Pd, Pt; PET=SC2H4Ph) were achieved by hydride‐mediated fusion reactions between [MAu8(PPh3)8]2+ and [M′Au24(PET)18]−. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis indicated that the products have bi‐icosahedral MM′Au21 cores composed of M@Au12 and M′@Au12 superatoms. Although the MM′Au21 superatomic molecules correspond to O2 in terms of the number of valence electrons (12 e), the distances between the icosahedrons were larger than that in the bi‐icosahedral Au23 core of Au38(PET)24 corresponding to F2 and the spin state was singlet. These counterintuitive results were explained by a “bent bonding model” based on tilted (non‐orthogonal) bonding interaction between the 1P superatomic orbitals of M@Au12 and M′@Au12 superatoms.
Controlling the Surface Oxidation of Cu Nanowires Improves Their Catalytic Selectivity and Stability toward C2+ Products in CO2 Reduction
Authors: Lyu Zhiheng , Zhu Shangqian , Xie Minghao , Zhang Yu , Chen Zitao , Chen Ruhui , Tian Mengkun , Chi Miaofang , Shao Minhua , Xia Younan
Published: October 2020

Copper nanostructures are promising catalysts for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 because of their unique ability to produce a large proportion of multi‐carbon products. Despite great progress, the selectivity and stability of such catalysts still need to be substantially improved. Here, we demonstrate that controlling the surface oxidation of Cu nanowires (CuNWs) can greatly improve their C2+ selectivity and stability. Specifically, we achieve a faradaic efficiency as high as 57.7 and 52.0 % for ethylene when the CuNWs are oxidized by the O2 from air and aqueous H2O2, respectively, and both of them show hydrogen selectivity below 12 %. The high yields of C2+ products can be mainly attributed to the increase in surface roughness and the generation of defects and cavities during the electrochemical reduction of the oxide layer. Our results also indicate that the formation of a relatively thick, smooth oxide sheath can improve the catalytic stability by mitigating the fragmentation issue.
Asymmetric Allylation by Chiral Organocatalyst‐Promoted Formal Hetero‐Ene Reactions of Alkylgold Intermediates
Authors: Dong Guizhi , Bao Ming , Xie Xiongda , Jia Shikun , Hu Wenhao , Xu Xinfang
Published: October 2020

An unprecedented catalytic asymmetric allylation of isatins and isatin‐derived ketimines is reported enabled by a gold and chiral organocatalyst cooperative catalysis strategy. This method offers expeditious access to chiral 2,5‐disubsituted alkylideneoxazolines containing vicinal stereogenic centers, mainly in optically pure form, and which are otherwise impossible to access. Mechanistic evidence reveals the presence of an alkylgold intermediate, and an X‐ray crystal structure of the allylgold species illuminates its unique stability and reactivity. An asymmetric formal hetero‐ene reaction of this gold intermediate, involving a dearomatization process, is enabled with assistance of a quinine‐derived squaramide catalyst. This novel discovery extends the synthetic applications of gold complexes and the versatility of gold catalysis.
Energetic Nitrogen‐Rich Polymers with a Tetrazene‐Based Backbone
Authors: Eymann John , Joucla Lionel , Jacob Guy , Raynaud Jean , Darwich Chaza , Lacôte Emmanuel
Published: October 2020

New energetic polymers were synthesized from monomers containing a trans‐2‐tetrazene unit. In contrast to traditional binders, such as inert hydroxytelechelic polybutadiene or glycidyl azide polymers—in which the energetic features are on the side chains—the energetic groups in the polytetrazenes are incorporated directly in the polymer backbone. Thermal analyses demonstrated that decomposition occurs at approximately 130 °C, regardless of the polymer structure. Glass‐transition temperatures ranged from −34.2 to 0.2 °C and could be lowered further (to −61 °C) with the help of a new diazidotetrazene energetic plasticizer. Interestingly, hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) enabled complete, room‐temperature depolymerization within 1 week. This depolymerization should enable the recycling of unused pyrotechnic compositions based on these new binders.
Ligand Control of Palladium‐Catalyzed Site‐Selective α‐ and γ‐Arylation of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones with (Hetero)aryl Halides
Authors: Yuen On Ying , So Chau Ming
Published: October 2020

This study describes the first palladium‐catalyzed, site‐selective α‐ and γ‐arylation of α,β‐unsaturated ketones with (hetero)aryl halides. A wide range of hetero(aryl)halides coupled with α,β‐unsaturated ketones, and transformation into the arylated products proceeded with excellent to good yields. The site selectivity of the reaction is switchable by simply changing the phosphine ligand to access either α‐arylated or γ‐arylated products in good to excellent yields by using a low catalyst loading, and the method demonstrates good functional‐group compatibility.
Low‐frequency ferroelectric switching studies in PVDF thin films across Cu or (Ag/Cu)/PVDF/Cu capacitor structures
Authors: Chikkonda Raghavendar , Ravindran Arun , Saikia Sumeer , Thankamani Sathyanathan Akhil Raman , Chelvane Arout , Subramanian Angappane , Kanakkappillavila Chinnayya James Raju , Gangineni Ramesh Babu
Published: October 2020

Ferroelectric switching dynamics of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) thin films in Cu or (Ag/Cu)/PVDF/Cu capacitors are explored by varying PVDF film thickness, applied electric field amplitude (4.35–87.5 MV/m) and frequency (100 mHz–200 Hz). Comprehending spontaneous polarization and its dependence upon interfaces, an electric field is critical for organic ferroelectric memory devices. In this article, quasi‐static current–voltage, and polarization–electric field measurements are used to explain the relationship between the coercive field, signal amplitude, and frequency. The observed coercivity enhancement at lower PVDF film thicknesses and with rising frequencies of the applied signal is discussed with Kolmogorov‐Avrami‐Ishibashi domain nucleation and growth model. The relation between domain growth and the top electrode layer is further discussed from the exponent parameters.
Using the NIH Toolbox to Assess Cognition in Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Solomon Marjorie , Gordon Andrew , Iosif Ana‐Maria , Geddert Raphael , Krug Marie K. , Mundy Peter , Hessl David
Published: October 2020

Despite the clinically significant impact of executive dysfunction on the outcomes of adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), we lack a clear understanding of its prevalence, profile, and development. To address this gap, we administered the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery to a cross‐sectional Intelligence Quotient (IQ) case‐matched cohort with ASD (n = 66) and typical development (TD; n = 66) ages 12–22. We used a general linear model framework to examine group differences in task performance and their associations with age. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify subgroups of individuals with similar cognitive profiles. Compared to IQ case‐matched controls, ASD demonstrated poorer performance on inhibitory control (P < 0.001), cognitive flexibility (P < 0.001), episodic memory (P < 0.02), and processing speed (P < 0.001) (components of Fluid Cognition), but not on vocabulary or word reading (components of Crystallized Cognition). There was a significant positive association between age and Crystallized and Fluid Cognition in both groups. For Fluid (but not Crystallized) Cognition, ASD performed more poorly than TD at all ages. A four‐group LPA model based on subtest scores best fit the data. Eighty percent of ASD belonged to two groups that exhibited relatively stronger Crystallized versus Fluid Cognition. Attention deficits were not associated with Toolbox subtest scores, but were lowest in the group with the lowest proportion of autistic participants. Adaptive functioning was poorer in the groups with the greatest proportion of autistic participants. Autistic persons are especially impaired on Fluid Cognition, and this more flexible form of thinking remains poorer in the ASD group through adolescence.

Lay Summary

A set of brief tests of cognitive functioning called the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery was administered to adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD; n = 66) and typical development (TD; n = 66) ages 12–22 years. Compared to TD, ASD showed poorer performance in inhibiting responses, acting flexibly, memorizing events, and processing information quickly (Fluid Cognition). Groups did not differ on vocabulary or word reading (Crystallized Cognition). Crystallized and Fluid Cognition increased with age in both groups, but the ASD group showed lower Fluid, but not Crystallized, Cognition than TD at all ages. A categorization analysis including all participants showed that most participants with ASD fell into one of two categories: a group characterized by poor performance across all tasks, or a group characterized by relatively stronger Crystallized compared to Fluid Cognition. Adaptive functioning was poorer for participants in these groups, which consisted of mostly individuals with ASD, while ADHD symptoms were lowest in the group with the greatest proportion of TD participants.
Intensified Downstream Processing of Monoclonal Antibodies Using Membrane Technology
Authors: Nadar Sathish , Shooter Gary , Somasundaram Balaji , Shave Evan , Baker Kym , Lua Linda H. L.
Published: October 2020

The need to intensify downstream processing of monoclonal antibodies to complement the advances in upstream productivity has led to increased attention toward implementing membrane technologies. With the industry moving toward continuous operations and single use processes, membrane technologies show promise in fulfilling the industry needs due to their operational flexibility and ease of implementation. Recently, the applicability of membrane‐based unit operations in integrating the downstream process has been explored. In this article, the major developments in the application of membrane‐based technologies in the bioprocessing of monoclonal antibodies are reviewed. The recent progress toward developing intensified end‐to‐end bioprocesses and the critical role membrane technology will play in achieving this goal are focused upon.
Endovascular embolization of a lower limb arteriovenous fistula using a vascular plug deployed with a through‐and‐through arteriovenous access
Authors: Grandi Alessandro , Melloni Andrea , Chiesa Roberto , Bertoglio Luca
Published: October 2020

A 66‐year‐old man was referred to our institution for a popliteal arteriovenous fistula (AVF). The patient presented with left lower limb edema associated with a pulsatile popliteal mass with bruit at auscultation, and no sign of lower limb ischemia. Relevant history included penetrating stabbing wound to that leg 50 years prior. A computed tomography scan demonstrated an AVF with a tract 10 mm in length and 6 mm in diameter at the level of the popliteal fossa. An AMPLATZER Vascular Plug III 12 mm (AVP ‐ AGA Medical Corporation, Minneapolis, MN) was initially deployed through a percutaneous femoral arterial access. Initial angiographic check showed inadequate sealing, so the plug was repositioned from the venous side of the AVF with a through‐and‐through arteriovenous access from the posterior tibial vein, achieving a correct sealing. At 24‐month follow‐up the patient does not present any complications from the procedure, and the AVF remains occluded.
Preparation of CoSnO3/CNTs/S and its Electrochemical Performance as Cathode Material for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Chen Jiale , Bian Zhengxu , Wu Mengrong , Gao Mingyue , Shi Jing , Duan Mengting , Guo Xingmei , Liu Yuanjun , Zhang Junhao , Kong Qinghong
Published: October 2020

To address low electrical conductivity of sulfur and “poly‐sulfide shuttle” for constructing sulfur hosts with excellent cyclic stability, CoSnO3/CNTs composites are successfully synthesized by combining CoSnO3 cubes and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via coprecipitation and annealing process. CoSnO3 cubes are bound by continuous carbon nanotube networks, with high specific surface area and vast mesoporous. CoSnO3 with multiple polar active sites has a strong chemical adsorption effect on lithium polysulfide, suppressing the shuttle effect. The carbon nanotubes have continuous conductive networks, which can provide physical confinement with polysulfides and good electrical conductivity. Through the effective combination of advantages of CoSnO3 and carbon nanotubes, CoSnO3/CNTs/S exhibits excellent sulfur storage performance. The maximum discharge capacity of CoSnO3/CNTs/S is 453.3 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.2 C. After 500 cycles, the discharge specific capacity is still 377.7 mAh g−1. The simple synthesis of CoSnO3/CNTs/S with long cycle life provides a new direction for the future LSBs cathode material research.
Naphthalenediimides with Cyclic Oligochalcogenides in Their Core
Authors: Shybeka Inga , Aster Alexander , Cheng Yangyang , Sakai Naomi , Frontera Antonio , Vauthey Eric , Matile Stefan
Published: October 2020

Naphthalenediimides (NDIs) are privileged scaffolds par excellence, of use in functional systems from catalysts to ion channels, photosystems, sensors, ordered matter in all forms, tubes, knots, stacks, sheets, vesicles, and colored over the full visible range. Despite this extensively explored chemical space, there is still room to discover core‐substituted NDIs with fundamentally new properties: NDIs with cyclic trisulfides (i.e., trisulfanes) in their core absorb at 668 nm, emit at 801 nm, and contract into disulfides (i.e., dithietes) upon irradiation at <475 nm. Intramolecular 1,5‐chalcogen bonds account for record redshifts with trisulfides, ring‐tension mediated chalcogen‐bond‐mediated cleavage for blueshifts to 492 nm upon ring contraction. Cyclic oligochalcogenides (COCs) in the NDI core open faster than strained dithiolanes as in asparagusic acid and are much better retained on thiol exchange affinity columns. This makes COC‐NDIs attractive not only within the existing multifunctionality, particularly artificial photosystems, but also for thiol‐mediated cellular uptake.
Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence from d10‐Metal Carbene Complexes through Intermolecular Charge Transfer and Multicolor Emission with a Monomer–Dimer Equilibrium
Authors: Cao Lei , Huang Shiqing , Liu Wei , Zhao Hongyan , Xiong Xiao‐Gen , Zhang Jian‐Ping , Fu Li‐Min , Yan Xiaoyu
Published: October 2020

A series of two‐coordinate AuIand CuIcomplexes (3 a,3 band5 a,5 b) are reported as new organometallic thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters, which are based on the carbene–metal–carbazole model with a pyridine‐fused 1,2,3‐triazolylidene (PyTz) ligand. PyTz features low steric hindrance and a low‐energy LUMO (LUMO=−1.47 eV) located over the π* orbitals of the whole ligand, which facilitates intermolecular charge transfer between a donor (carbazole) and an accepter (PyTz). These compounds exhibit efficient TADF with microsecond lifetimes. Temperature‐dependent photoluminescence kinetics of3 asupports a rather small energy gap between S1and T1(ΔE=60 meV). Further experiments reveal that there are dual‐emission properties from a monomer–dimer equilibrium in solution, exhibiting single‐component multicolor emission from blue to orange, including white‐light emission.
Liquid biopsy for lung cancer screening: Usefulness of circulating tumor cells and other circulating blood biomarkers
Authors: Hofman Paul
Published: October 2020

Screening for lung cancer has become a reality in certain countries, most notably the United States, but its implementation currently is under discussion and not established in many nations, including France. Screening for lung cancer currently is proposed using a low‐dose computed tomography scanner. However, this approach lacks sensitivity and specificity, and could be improved when combined with a blood test (so‐called “liquid biopsy”). Such tests attempt to detect biomarker (s) of early cancer development. Thus, numerous studies performed within the last few years have examined different blood components including circulating tumor cells and free DNA and other circulating elements such as microRNAs, exosomes, antibodies, and proteins. Recent studies have highlighted the value of seeking a signature for the methylation of circulating free DNA, which can be specific for certain solid tumors, including lung carcinoma. The current study describes some recent developments in the use of liquid biopsies for the detection of early‐stage lung cancers, even those that are not yet visible using a low‐dose computed tomography scanner.
Accurate Modelling of Group Electrostatic Potential and Distributed Polarizability in Dipeptides
Authors: Jabłuszewska Angelika , Krawczuk Anna , Dos Santos Leonardo H. R. , Macchi Piero
Published: October 2020

The front cover artwork is provided by the groups of Dr. Anna Krawczuk (Jagiellonian University, Poland), Prof. Leonardo H. R. Dos Santos (Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil) and Prof. Piero Macchi (Polytechnics of Milan, Italy). The image shows electrostatic potentials and distributed polarizabilities of dipeptides reconstructed from functional‐group methods based on quantum theory of atoms in molecules. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202000441.
Tackling the Mouse‐on‐Mouse Problem in Cochlear Immunofluorescence: A Simple Double‐Blocking Protocol for Immunofluorescent Labeling of Murine Cochlear Sections with Primary Mouse Antibodies
Authors: Bassiouni Mohamed , Stölzel Katharina , Smorodchenko Alina , Olze Heidi , Szczepek Agnieszka J.
Published: October 2020

The mouse is the most widely used animal model in hearing research. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescent staining of murine cochlear sections have, thus, remained a backbone of inner ear research. Since many primary antibodies are raised in mouse, the problem of “mouse‐on‐mouse” background arises due to the interaction between the anti‐mouse secondary antibody and the native mouse immunoglobulins. Here, we describe the pattern of mouse‐on‐mouse background fluorescence in sections of the postnatal mouse cochlea. Furthermore, we describe a simple double‐blocking immunofluorescence protocol to label mouse cochlear cryosections. The protocol contains a conventional blocking step with serum, and an additional blocking step with a commercially available anti‐mouse IgG blocking reagent. This blocking technique virtually eliminates the “mouse‐on‐mouse” background in murine cochlear sections, while adding only a little time to the staining protocol. We provide detailed instructions and practical tips for tissue harvesting, processing, and immunofluorescence‐labeling. Further protocol modifications are described, to shorten the duration of the protocol, based on the primary antibody incubation temperature. Finally, we demonstrate examples of immunofluorescence staining performed using different incubation times and various incubation temperatures with a commercially available mouse monoclonal primary antibody. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol: Tackling the Mouse‐on‐Mouse Problem in Cochlear Immunofluorescence: A Simple Double‐Blocking Protocol for Immunofluorescent Labeling of Murine Cochlear Sections with Primary Mouse Antibodies
The Doubly Excited State in Singlet Fission
Authors: Sandoval‐Salinas María E. , Casanova David
Published: October 2020

In recent years, a variety of studies have investigated in great depth the details of singlet fission mechanisms in terms of electronic energies and couplings. The nature and properties of the triplet‐pair intermediate state or the role of charge separated configurations (CT states) have been extensively explored with the help of theoretical models, ab initio calculations, and experimental characterization. On the other hand, much less is known about the involvement of the localized double electron excitation, that is the D state. In organic conjugated molecules, the D state can be typically described as the HOMO‐to‐LUMO promotion of two electrons, which makes it inactive to photoabsorption (dark state). In the present study, we tackle the possible roles of the D state by means of electronic structure calculations and the simulation of singlet fission dynamics. Our results suggest that, indeed, the D state can have a significant impact on singlet fission. On one hand, if it lies energetically below the optical exciton it is able to drive the system to singlet fission through direct coupling or via a CT‐mediated path. The D state can also act as a mediator in the formation of the triplet‐pair state from initial photoactivation. These results should motivate researchers in the field to include this state in their analysis, and help to clarify electronic mechanisms in singlet fission materials.
Investigation of the Effective Thermal Conductivity of Cell Stacks of Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Oehler Dieter , Bender Jonas , Seegert Philipp , Wetzel Thomas
Published: October 2020

Knowledge of the thermal transport properties of the individual battery components and their combination is required for the design of thermally optimized lithium‐ion batteries. Based on this, the limiting components can be identified and potentially improved. In this contribution, the microstructures of commercial porous electrode coatings, electrode stacks, and cell stacks are reconstructed based on experimentally determined structure parameters using a specifically developed structure generation routine. The effective thermal conductivity of the generated stacked structures is then determined by a numerical tool developed in‐house based on the finite‐volume method. The results are compared with an analytical model for fast accurate predictions which takes the morphological parameter sets and the geometry of the stacks into account. Both models are used to identify the system‐limiting components via selected simulation studies. Finally, the results of both models are compared with experimental data for commercial electrode stacks and common literature values for cell stacks.
Joint beacon frequency and beacon transmission power adaptation for internet of vehicles
Authors: Rawat Gopal Singh , Singh Karan
Published: October 2020

Internet of Vehicles (IoV) has emerged as a research field studied to improve vehicle connectivity while ensuring traffic safety. It uses vehicular ad hoc networks as communication technology. The vehicular communication achieves awareness among vehicles with the help of a periodic one‐hop broadcast of beacons. The highly dynamic vehicular environment poses challenges to a vehicular network in the IoV. The shared channel used for beacon transmission can get congested, leading to delay and beacon loss, resulting in the degradation of network performance and related applications. The proposed scheme proactively monitors the network, and with the help of local information adapts the transmission parameters. The proposed scheme is a joint beacon frequency and beacon transmission power adaptation (JFTP) based on the channel usage estimation and transmission parameter adaptation with the help of the adaptation fraction parameter. JFTP is a proactive and lightweight congestion control scheme. The performance analysis of JFTP is done through simulations confirming its effectiveness.