bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New organoruthenium metallates containing ferrocenecarboxalidine thiosemicarbazones and their nucleic acid/albumin binding and in vitro cytotoxicity
Authors: Sindhu Mathiyazhagan , Kalaivani Palaniappan , Prabhakaran Rathinasabapathi
Published: August 2020

A string of four new hetero binuclear Ru(III) complexes of ferrocenecarboxaldehyde‐4(N)‐substituted thiosemicarbazones were synthesized and characterized by various spectral (infrared, ultraviolet–visible, Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) and High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HR‐MS) techniques. The binding abilities of the ligands/complexes with nucleic acid (calf thymus DNA, CT‐DNA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) were analyzed by absorption and emission titration methods. The complexes exhibited better DNA binding affinity than their parent ligands. The interaction with CT‐DNA was found to be intercalative and with BSA static quenching mechanism was observed. All the synthesized Ru(III) complexes were subjected to study their in vitro cytotoxicity against MCF‐7 (human breast cancer) and HT‐29 (human colon cancer) cell lines. Among the four complexes, complex 3 [RuCp (FF‐etsc)PPh3]Cl exhibited the highest cytotoxicity in MCF‐7 cells and complex 4 [RuCp (FF‐ptsc)PPh3]Cl was the most active on HT‐29 cells.
NCC Pincer Ni (II) Complexes Catalyzed Hydrophosphination of Nitroalkenes with Diphenylphosphine
Authors: Yan Jing , Wang Yan‐Bing , Hou Senyao , Shi Linlin , Zhu Xinju , Hao Xin‐Qi , Song Mao‐Ping
Published: August 2020

An efficient NCC pincer Ni (II)‐catalyzed hydrophosphination of nitroalkenes with diphenylphosphine has been developed. Under the optimized conditions, both (hetero)aromatic and aliphatic nitroalkenes were well tolerated, irrespective of electronic effect, to provide the corresponding products in up to 99% yield.
The synthesis ofN‐containing heterocyclic compounds catalyzed by copper/L‐proline
Authors: Wu Fengtian
Published: August 2020

N‐containing heterocyclic compounds are one of the most important motifs prevalent in various bioactive natural products and pharmaceuticals. Given the significance ofN‐containing heterocyclic compounds, various synthetic strategies have been developed. Copper/ligand (abbreviated as [CuL])‐catalyzed cascade reaction is a powerful and efficient tool for the construction ofN‐containing heterocyclic compounds.L‐proline is one universal ligand and has been utilized in the copper‐catalyzed reactions. In this review, copper/L‐proline‐catalyzed tandem reaction to synthesize the five‐ and six‐membered compounds is emphatically introduced. By comparing the yields in the presence and absence of the ligand, the importance ofL‐proline is recorded. Moreover, the function ofL‐proline is expounded on the basis of the reaction mechanism from original article.
Olive Oil from “Sikitita” under Super‐High‐Density Planting System in California: Impact of Harvest Time and Crop Season
Authors: Polari Juan J. , Mori Mary , Wang Selina C.
Published: August 2020

“Sikitita” is a relatively new olive cultivar obtained from crossbreeding between “Picual” and “Arbequina” that can be trained into the super‐high‐density orchard system. The impact of harvest time and crop season (2017 and 2018) on fruit parameters, oil quality, and minor compounds was assessed for super‐high‐density “Sikitita” in California, USA. Maximum olive fruit oil content (~49% on a dry basis) was reached between the first and second weeks of November. Quality parameters were within limits for extra virgin classification for all harvest times during both crop seasons. While total phenols were affected by harvest time, crop year, and their interaction, total volatile content was mainly influenced by harvest time. Both phenolic and volatile compounds reached a maximum concentration by the first week of October, suggesting that harvesting at the beginning of October would lead to a richer oil in terms of minor components. However, oil yield can be maximized if the harvest takes place in November. Our results demonstrated fruit parameters, oil quality, and minor compounds of super‐high‐density “Sikitita” followed a similar pattern and reached comparable values in both years, despite an earlier maturation in 2018. “Sikitita” has potential as a viable cultivar for growers and processors who are looking to expand on the traditional super‐high‐density cultivars.
In Situ Observation and Physical–Chemical Characteristics of Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) Kernel Olein Crystals Obtained from Acetone Fractionation
Authors: Mahisanunt Busakorn , Hondoh Hironori , Klinkesorn Utai
Published: August 2020

Hard fat stocks containing highly saturated fats are a necessary ingredient for fabrication of trans‐free plastic fats. Crystal fractions obtained from the fractionation of fats naturally containing saturated fatty acids (SFA) may be a promising approach to produce the desired hard fat stocks. Influences of cooling rate (0.4, 2.0 and 10.0 °C·min−1) and fractionation temperature (15 and 20 °C) on the formation of solid fat crystals of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) kernel olein (RKOle) during acetone fractionation were examined using in situ observation with polarized light microscopy (PLM). The resulting stable crystals were then separated and characterized by their iodine values, fatty acid compositions, crystal polymorphism, solid fat index, and melting behavior. PLM results showed that cooling rate affected crystal formation. Entrained oil on the surface and number of small crystals increased at higher cooling rates of RKOle. Stable crystals were obtained at a cooling rate of 2.0 °C·min−1 and 6 hours, which had lower iodine value and contained more SFA with a higher amount of solid fat than incipient RKOle. Crystals fractionated at 20 °C were larger in size, fewer in number, and had less entrained oil compared to those fractionated at 15 °C. Their main polymorph was the β' form with a melting range comparable to common fully hydrogenated oils. Results suggested that RKOle crystals have potential for use as hard fat stocks for various purposes.
Potential Effect of Cavitation on the Physical Properties of Interesterified Soybean Oil Using High‐Intensity Ultrasound: A Long‐Term Storage Study
Authors: Lee Juhee , Youngs Jack , Birkin Peter , Truscott Tadd , Martini Silvana
Published: August 2020

The objective of this research was to evaluate if cavitation events generated during sonication (20 kHz, 216 μm amplitude, 10 s) are responsible for changes in physical properties of a fat with low levels of saturated fatty acids and if these changes are maintained during storage. The fat was crystallized at 24 and 34 °C and stored at 25 °C for up to 24 weeks. An increase in solid fat content and melting enthalpy was observed for sonicated samples crystallized at 34 °C and an increase in elasticity was observed for sonicated samples crystallized at 24 °C (P < 0.05). Hardness increased in sonicated samples crystallized at 24 and 34 °C (P < 0.05) after 60 min of crystallization and after 24 weeks storage. Elasticity of non‐sonicated samples crystallized at 24 °C decreased (P < 0.05) after storage at 25 °C for 48 h while it remained constant in sonicated samples. Sonicated samples had more, and smaller crystals compared to the non‐sonicated ones. No significant change was observed in physical properties of sonicated samples crystallized at 24 °C and 34 °C during the 24 weeks of storage. Sonication at 24 °C was less efficient at changing the physical properties of the fat compared to 34 °C; however, the number of subharmonic components generated during sonication at these two temperatures was not affected by crystallization temperature. These results suggest that changes in physical properties are associated with secondary effects of sonication such as bubble streamers rather than changes in cluster dynamics.
Patients With COVID‐19 Undergoing Cesarean Deliveries: Adapting the OR Suite and Perioperative Care to Prevent Transmission
Authors: Zou Kang , Chen Hong , Liu Yang
Published: August 2020

The novel coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 first appeared in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and led to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19), which quickly spread globally. Protocols for surgical patients with COVID‐19 were lacking, particularly for pregnant women undergoing cesarean deliveries. Perioperative nurses at Tongji Hospital in Wuhan retrospectively analyzed the perioperative nursing process, including OR preparation, intraoperative care, and OR cleanup, for women with COVID‐19 undergoing cesarean deliveries. Preparation involved altering the layout of the surgical suite, educating staff members, providing personal protective equipment, and creating new in‐house guidelines to help protect personnel and patients. This article describes how perioperative personnel strategized to prevent the transmission of COVID‐19 in the OR and presents a multiple‐case summary of six pregnant patients with COVID‐19 who underwent cesarean deliveries at Tongji Hospital in January and February 2020.
Numerical investigation of the performance of 3D‐helical passive micromixer with Newtonian fluid and non‐Newtonian fluid blood
Authors: Tokas Sulekh , Zunaid Mohammad , Ansari Mubashshir Ahmad
Published: August 2020

Mixing at microscales is purely governed by the diffusion mass transport phenomenon, which is a time‐consuming process requiring a prolonged length of the microchannel to obtain desired results. The present study proposes a novel three‐dimensional helical micromixer (TDHM) with a rectangular cross‐section to achieve splendid mixing performance within a short distance contrary to the simple T‐micromixer (STM). A thorough numerical investigation of mixing performance and fluid flow patterns has been conducted using the continuity, species transport, and the Navier–Stokes equations with Newtonian and non‐Newtonian fluid at a wide range of Reynolds number (0.2–320) and mass flow rate (0.00005–0.091 kg/h), respectively. Blood is selected as the non‐Newtonian fluid, and its rheological characteristics are numerically captured by implementing the Carreau–Yasuda model, whereas water is used to study mixing with the Newtonian fluid. At Re = 2, the mixing index of TDHM is 40. 5% more than that of the STM with water as the working fluid, whereas for blood, it is 34.3%, and thus, it was concluded that the TDHM gives much better performance at much less axial distance than that of the STM at all values of the Reynolds number and flow rates considered in the study. Therefore, TDHM can be utilized for various biomedical, chemical, and biochemical applications.
Visualization research on bubble in overflow sieve plate hot water tower
Authors: Bao Zebin , Wang Yifei , Yu Guangsuo , Wang Fuchen , Xiao Huixia
Published: August 2020

In this paper, an experimental apparatus was developed based on the evaporating water tower of the circuit bottom‐ash sluicing system. The formation and movement of single bubble that emerged from an orifice with 5 mm diameter in the middle of the tray were investigated by visual experiments, with water flow rates of 150, 200, and 250 L/h−1, steam flow rate of 5 kg/h−1, and nitrogen flow rates of 0.1632 and 0.32645 kg/h−1. The lifetime of bubbles was recorded by high‐speed camera, and the characteristics of bubble deformation and movement were determined by image processing software Image Pro‐plus. Results showed that the lifetime of bubbles was divided based on the pictures into three parts, namely, formation, region, and oscillation regions. Bubble deformation and movement were assessed in each part. The equivalent radius of bubbles increased rapidly in the first region because of gas influx and grew more slowly in the two latter regions. The aspect ratio of bubbles changed from large to small in the formation region but surged in the oscillation region. The vertical velocity of the centroid of steam bubbles increased at the beginning and then fluctuated. However, the vertical velocity of the centroid of nitrogen bubbles increased over time due to the lack of mass transfer. The hollow phenomenon was found in steam and mixture bubbles through condensation. The effect of noncondensable gases on transmission was also discussed. With increasing nitrogen ratio, the time of formation and oscillation regions decreased for the mixed gas bubbles, leading to the deterioration of heat transfer in the tower. This work provides theoretical guidance for evaporating hot water tower operation.
Self‐adhesive plasticized regenerated silk on poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) for bio‐piezoelectric force sensor and microwave circuit design
Authors: Bittolo Bon Silvia , Valentini Luca , Degli Esposti Micaela , Morselli Davide , Fabbri Paola , Palazzi Valentina , Mezzanotte Paolo , Roselli Luca
Published: August 2020

This study shows that regenerated silk (RS), a natural biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, can behave as a self‐adhesive thermoplastic material with multifunctional properties. In particular, Ca ions‐plasticized RS hybrids with gold nanorods have been produced. It has been found that at mild conditions of temperature and pressure, RS hybrids undergo to the loss of the β‐sheet content and forms a tough self‐adhesive material on poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) substrate. The structure‐dependent piezoelectricity of such RS adhesives on PHBV films was investigated and it was demonstrated that this forms a RS/PHBV piezoelectric sensor that can be used for the monitoring of force. The constitutive parameters (i.e., permittivity and loss tangent) of both PHBV and RS/PHBV were measured in view of their use as dielectric substrates in microwave circuit design. Being fully made of biodegradable and biocompatible materials, this self‐adhesive material can be used in tissue engineering for different applications.
Synthesis and characterization of poly(hexamethylene terephthalate/hexamethylene oxamide) alternating copolyamide (alt‐PA6T/62)
Authors: Gao Yuanbo , Yang Tingting , Wang Xueli , Xia Yumin , Zhu Bo , He Yong
Published: August 2020

As a representative polyoxamide, poly(hexamethylene oxamide) (PA62) has good comprehensive performance. However, the high Tm (330°C) creates an obstacle for processing. To improve the processability of PA62, poly(hexamethylene terephthalate/hexamethylene oxamide) alternating copolyamide (alt‐PA6T/62) was synthesized by hexamethylene diamine‐terminated 6T6‐diamine and dibutyl oxalate via solution/solid state polycondensation. Random copolyamide (ran‐PA6T/62) was also synthesized for comparison. The structure and properties of the copolymer were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) and the saturated water absorption test. The NMR results confirm the alternating structure of alt‐PA6T/62. The DSC and TGA results demonstrate that the novel alternating copolyamide alt‐PA6T/62 (Tm = 321°C, T5 = 420°C) exhibited better thermal properties than those of ran‐PA6T/62 (Tm = 294°C, T5 = 412°C). The saturated water absorption of alt‐PA6T/62 was found to be 3.2 wt%. These results revealed that the novel alt‐PA6T/62 had an alternating sequence distribution, showed a high melting point as well as good processability and thermal stability, and possessed low saturated water absorption and excellent dimensional stability.
Fluorescent polymer nanofibers based on polycaprolactone and dansyl derivatives for development of latent fingerprints
Authors: Mazzini Júnior Edu Grieco , de Almeida Cantalice Juliana Donato , de Assis Alexandro Mangueira Lima , Duarte de Freitas Johnnatan , Manzine Costa Ligia Maria , Santos Ribeiro Adriana
Published: August 2020

This work provides a convenient low‐cost strategy for fast fabrication of dansyl‐based fluorescent nanofibers for development of latent fingerprints aiming forensic applications. Polycaprolactone (PCL) and dansyl cadaverine (DnsCad) or dansylglycine (DnsGly) nanofibers are prepared by electrospinning technique and characterized by SEM, FTIR, thermal analysis, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The electrospun PCL/DnsCad and PCL/DnsGly nanofibers are fluorescent with greenish blue and yellowish green emission, respectively. Such nanofibers are useful for enhancement of the visual contrast of latent fingerprints on metallic surfaces when exposed to UV light. These findings are particularly important for development of latent fingerprints on cartridge cases.
Electrosynthesis of polyaniline‐based composite films and their electrochemical activity
Authors: Bumika Malliboyina , Mallick Manoj K. , Palai Akshaya K. , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: August 2020

Herein, we report the synthesis of organic–inorganic hybrids of polyaniline‐rGO‐ZnO (PRZ) ternary composite materials for a potential application in dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC). A facile all‐electrochemical method was adopted for the deposition of PRZ films on FTO‐coated glass substrate. The PRZ hybrid assembly was subsequently characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cyclic voltammetry, and photoelectrochemical measurements. Further, the morphological and elemental composition features of PRZ were monitored by field emission SEM and EDX, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectra suggest that the charge–transfer resistance for the ternary composite is distinctly decreased. The maximum conversion efficiency of DSSC with PRZ counter electrode reaches 2.84%, which is higher than that of polyaniline‐reduced graphene oxide (rGO) counter electrode. This ternary composite (PRZ) with organic–inorganic hybrid architecture showing an enhanced photoelectrochemical activity might be exploited in future as a promising material for application in next‐generation solar devices.
Effect of substituents in the A and B rings of chalcones on antiparasite activity
Authors: González Luis A. , Upegui Yulieth A. , Rivas Luis , Echeverri Fernando , Escobar Gustavo , Robledo Sara M. , Quiñones Wiston
Published: August 2020

Chalcones are a group of natural products with many recognized biological activities, including antiparasitic activity. Although a lot of chalcones have been synthetized and assayed against parasites, the number of structural features known to be involved in this biological property is small. Thus, in the present study, 21 chalcones were synthesized to determine the effect of substituents in the A and B rings on the activity against Leishmania braziliensis, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Plasmodium falciparum. The compounds were active against L. braziliensis in a structure‐dependent manner. Only one compound was very active against T. cruzi, but none of them had a significant antiplasmodial activity. The electron‐donating substituents in ring B and the hydrogen bonds at C‐2′ with carbonyl affect the antiparasitic activity.
Impact of iron‐rich scale in service lines on lead release to water
Authors: Bae Yeunook , Pasteris Jill D. , Giammar Daniel E.
Published: August 2020

Total iron and total lead concentrations were correlated in water that had stagnated in laboratory‐scale experiments with sections of 10 harvested lead service lines (LSLs) from Providence, Rhode Island. One of these sections had much greater lead release and pH decrease during stagnation, and the inner surface of this service line had a thick coating of iron oxide scale. The iron‐rich scale was composed of coarse‐grained iron oxides (lepidocrocite and magnetite) covered with a thin lead‐bearing layer (hydrocerussite). Complementary batch experiments with pure iron oxides found that their surfaces accelerated the oxidation of Pb(II) from hydrocerussite, which produced PbO2(s) and decreased the pH. While the findings presented are for LSLs from Providence, the co‐occurrence of iron oxides and lead corrosion products is widespread. The results highlight the importance of considering iron corrosion when evaluating processes that control lead concentrations in tap water.
Embrace board terms to ensure a diverse, engaged board
Authors: King Nicholas
Published: August 2020

In the nonprofit world, it's not uncommon for executive directors to lament a lack of board participation and, too often, a lack of diversity to boot. Yet, too many nonprofits continue to retain what some experts say are major contributors to both of these problems—open‐ended board terms.
Help board members become ‘ambassadors’ to maximize their fundraising impact
Authors: King Nicholas
Published: August 2020

For the typical nonprofit organization, having an engaged board of directors that generates fundraising revenue and helps to mobilize volunteers and spur event participation is critical to success. And, in most cases, board members are more than willing to help in these areas—contributing their time and resources personally, and helping the organization reach new audiences by accessing their networks of friends and business associates.
The importance of building diversity among boards, staff
Authors: King Nicholas
Published: August 2020

While there's a strong, stated interest in bolstering diversity among leadership, boards and staff at the nation's nonprofits, that interest hasn't necessarily found its way into practice at many organizations, according to a recent survey conducted by Nonprofit HR. The most recent data shows that barely half of nonprofits have the basics in place—such as a formal diversity statement, providing diversity training for staff or having formal policies in place to promote diversity in their organizations.
The bedrock of board effectiveness: A generational gearbox
Authors: Underwood Chuck
Published: August 2020

In the past, boards were composed of members of only one or two generations: the older, more experienced and presumably wiser business minds in their 60s and 70s. And, overwhelmingly, white and male.
Einkleben von Gewindestangen in Laubholz bei niedrigen Temperaturen
Authors: Ratsch Nils , Böhm Stefan , Myslicki Sebastian , Voß Morten
Published: August 2020

Eingeklebte Gewindestangen sind ein aus dem Holzbau nicht mehr wegzudenkender Anschlusstyp. Aktuell werden hierzu 2K‐Epoxide (EPX) und Polyurethane (PUR) verwendet. Diese haben jedoch zwei wesentliche Nachteile: Der Prozess der Aushärtung erstreckt sich, je nach Klebstoffsystem, über mehrere h bis hin zu 10 d. Zum anderen benötigen die zugelassenen Klebstoffe eine Mindestaushärtetemperatur von 18 °C. Beide Nachteile behindern den Einsatz geklebter Gewindestangen, insbesondere auf der Baustelle. In diesem Beitrag werden Untersuchungen zur Bewertung der Schnellhärtbarkeit von 2K‐EPX und 2K‐PUR im Holzbau vorgestellt. In den bisherigen Untersuchungen konnte eine generelle Machbarkeit der Schnellhärtung mittels Induktion im Bereich eingeklebte Gewindestangen im Holzbau unter Normklima (+23 °C, 50 % rel. LF) nachgewiesen werden. Diese Arbeit stellt Ergebnisse zur Schnellhärtbarkeit im Niedrigtemperaturbereich (+5 °C und –10 °C) vor und vergleicht die Ergebnisse mit Referenzproben, die bei +23 °C Raumtemperatur geklebt und ausgehärtet wurden. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass vor allem 2K‐EPX auch unter niedrigen Temperaturen schnell ausgehärtet werden können, jedoch gleichzeitig, welchen Einfluss die Schnellhärtung auf die Festigkeit des geklebten Verbunds ausübt.
Development of liver microtissues with functional biliary ductular network
Authors: Hafiz Ehab O. A. , Bulutoglu Beyza , Mansy Soheir S. , Chen Yibin , Abu‐Taleb Hoda , Soliman Somia A. M. , El‐Hindawi Ali A. F. , Yarmush Martin L. , Uygun Basak E.
Published: August 2020

Liver tissue engineering aims to create transplantable liver grafts that can serve as substitutes for donor's livers. One major challenge in creating a fully functional liver tissue has been to recreate the biliary drainage in an engineered liver construct through integration of bile canaliculi (BC) with the biliary ductular network that would enable the clearance of bile from the hepatocytes to the host duodenum. In this study, we show the formation of such a hepatic microtissue by coculturing rat primary hepatocytes with cholangiocytes and stromal cells. Our results indicate that within the spheroids, hepatocytes maintained viability and function for up to 7 days. Viable hepatocytes became polarized by forming BC with the presence of tight junctions. Morphologically, hepatocytes formed the core of the spheroids, while cholangiocytes resided at the periphery forming a monolayer microcysts and tubular structures extending outward. The spheroids were subsequently cultured in clusters to create a higher order ductular network resembling hepatic lobule. The cholangiocytes formed functional biliary ductular channels in between hepatic spheroids that were able to collect, transport, and secrete bile. Our results constitute the first step to recreate hepatic building blocks with biliary drainage for repopulating the whole liver scaffolds to be used as transplantable liver grafts.
BarcodingGO: A problem‐based approach to teach concepts related to environmental‐DNA and bioinformatics
Authors: Nunes Rhewter , de Bem Oliveira Ivone , de Araújo Dias Priscila , Bidinotto Alexandre Borges , de Campos Telles Mariana Pires
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we propose and describe a new approach, named BarcodingGO, to teach environmental DNA and bioinformatics concepts to undergraduate or graduate students in molecular biology‐related fields. The learning pipeline proposed here aims to solve a simulated environmental monitoring problem, in which a biodiversity survey of a particular region is needed to assess the impact of an environmental disaster. Biological surveys, in the context of environmental DNA studies, are performed by analyzing the DNA released by organisms living in a specific environment. We proposed a scenario in which quick response (QR) codes represented a given environmental DNA, and they were positioned in a scattered pattern across two regions of the classroom (representing pre and post scenarios for a particular environmental disaster). The QR codes redirect to a page that contained a fictional representation of an animal or a plant. Students then survey the region's biodiversity using QR code scanning applications on their cell phones by “capturing” these organisms as an analogy to the Pokémon GO game of the international Pokémon franchise. We believe this method (or even an adaptation of it) can be an essential tool to engage students in molecular biology classes. Moreover, this approach can help to teach how modern genomics and bioinformatics tools can be applied to solve real problems in conservation biology.
Increased EEG coherence in long‐distance and short‐distance connectivity in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Wang Jia , Wang Xiaomin , Wang Xuelai , Zhang Huiying , Zhou Yong , Chen Lei , Li Yutong , Wu Lijie
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and social interaction as well as repetitive behaviors. Alterations in function connectivity are widely recognized in recent electroencephalogram (EEG) studies. However, most studies have not reached consistent conclusions, which could be due to the developmental nature and the heterogeneity of ASD.

Methods

Here, EEG coherence analysis was used in a cohort of children with ASD (n = 13) and matched typically developing controls (TD, n = 15) to examine the functional connectivity characteristics in long‐distance and short‐distance electrode pairs. Subsequently, we explore the association between the connectivity strength of coherence and symptom severity in children with ASD.

Results

Compared with TD group, individuals with ASD showed increased coherence in short‐distance electrode pairs in the right temporal–parietal region (delta, alpha, beta bands), left temporal–parietal region (all frequency bands), occipital region (theta, alpha, beta bands), right central–parietal region (delta, alpha, beta bands), and the prefrontal region (only beta band). In the long‐distance coherence analysis, the ASD group showed increased coherence in bilateral frontal region, temporal region, parietal region, and frontal–occipital region in alpha and beta bands. The strength of such connections was associated with symptom severity.

Discussion

Our study indicates that abnormal connectivity patterns in neuroelectrophysiology may be of critical importance to acknowledge the underlying brain mechanism.
Association between BDNF rs6265 polymorphisms and postoperative cognitive dysfunction in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Xie Songhui , Yu Lu , Zhou Mingming , Liu Li , Lei Daoyun , Han Chao
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). In present study, we aimed to assess the possible association between POCD and BDNF rs6265 polymorphisms.

Methods

124 patients aged 60 years or older scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia and 25 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers were recruited. POCD was identified using a neuropsychological test battery administered preoperatively, 7 days, and 3 months after surgery. Genotyping of rs6265 was performed using polymerase chain reaction amplification and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.

Results

99 patients and 25 healthy controls were finally enrolled in the analysis. 29(29.3%) and 18(18.2%) of 99 patients had POCD at 7 days and 3 months after surgery, respectively. The patients carrying a G allele at the rs6265 locus showed a lower risk for POCD than an A allele carriers on postoperative 7 days, but not 3 months after surgery (OR = 0.67; 95% CI: 0.47–0.96; p = .017; OR = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.42–1.13; p = .14, respectively). The risk of POCD at 7 days following surgery was significantly lower in additive model (OR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.2–0.84; p = .015) and dominant model (OR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.13–0.96; p = .042).

Conclusion

We tentatively demonstrate that BDNF rs6265 polymorphisms might be associated with occurrence of POCD at 7 days after surgery and the A > G mutant at the rs6265 locus be likely a protective factor for early POCD in Chinese Han population.
Network of ictal head version in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Wang Yao , Wang Xiu , Sang Lin , Zhang Chao , Zhao Bao‐tian , Mo Jia‐jie , Hu Wen‐han , Shao Xiao‐qiu , Wang Feng , Ai Lin , Zhang Jian‐guo , Zhang Kai
Published: August 2020

Objective

Ictal head version is a common clinical manifestation of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). Nevertheless, the location of the symptomatogenic zone and the network involved in head version remains unclear. We attempt to explain these problems by analyzing interictal 18FDG‐PET imaging and ictal stereo‐electroencephalography (SEEG) recordings in MTLE patients.

Methods

Fifty‐eight patients with MTLE were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into version (+) and (−) groups according to the occurrence of versive head movements. The interictal PET data were compared among 18 healthy controls and the (+) and (−) groups. Furthermore, epileptogenicity index (EI) values and correlations with the onset time of head version were analyzed with SEEG.

Results

Intergroup comparisons showed that PET differences were observed in the middle temporal neocortex (MTN), posterior temporal neocortex (PTN), supramarginal gyrus (SMG), and inferior parietal lobe (IPL). The EI values in the SMG, MTN, and PTN were significantly higher in the version (+) group than in the version (−) group. A linear relationship was observed between head version onset and ipsilateral onset time in the SMG, orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), MTN, and PTN. A linear relationship was observed between EI, the difference between version onset and temporal neocortex onset, and the y‐axis of the MNI coordinate.

Conclusion

The generation of ictal head version contributes to the propagation of ictal discharges to the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) area. The network of version originates from a mesial temporal lobe structure, passes through the MTN, PTN, and SMG, and likely ends at the IPS.
Sustainability strategies by companies in the global coffee sector
Authors: Bager Simon L. , Lambin Eric F.
Published: August 2020

The coffee sector is facing several sustainability challenges. We ask whether addressing these is transforming the entire coffee sector or rather leading to market differentiation. Drawing on stakeholder theory and global value chain analysis, we analyse how the coffee sector approaches sustainability by examining the sustainability efforts of a random sample of 513 companies. We also identify the factors shaping the adoption of sustainability strategies. A third of companies report no commitment to sustainability, whereas another third report vague commitment. The final third of companies report tangible commitments to sustainability. Company characteristics and stakeholders affect the scope and type of sustainability strategy chosen. Large, risk‐aware companies tend to conduct ‘hands‐on’ governance, adopting internal sustainability practices along their value chain. Small, consumer‐facing companies and producers rely on ‘hands‐off’ governance, adopting external voluntary sustainability standards. Several sustainability issues remain underaddressed by most companies, including climate change and deforestation. We found indications of potential greenwashing by some companies. Addressing sustainability is not yet fully mainstreamed in the sector, though ambitious commitments by sustainability leaders and large actors signal increasing importance of sustainability as part of corporate social responsibility efforts. We observe market differentiation through sustainability with progressive companies adopting sustainability strategies that align with their stakeholders, depending on value chain characteristics. Our results indicate a notable reliance on internal sustainability practices. There is a need for common coffee sustainability indicators relevant for all actors along the value chain, which are consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals, and a transparent, mandatory reporting framework.
Bioconversion of ferulic acid into aroma compounds by newly isolated yeast strains of the Latin American biodiversity
Authors: Bettio Giulia , Zardo Luíza Caroline , Rosa Carlos Augusto , Záchia Ayub Marco Antônio
Published: August 2020

Nine yeast strains isolated from Latin American biodiversity were screened for ferulic acid (FA) consumption and conversion into aroma compounds such as vanillin, vanillic acid (VA), and 4‐vinylguaiacol (VG). Selected strains (Rhodotorula mucilaginosa UFMG‐CM‐Y3647, UFMG‐CM‐Y2190, UFMG‐CM‐Y665) were evaluated in flask experiments to investigate the influence of the pH media on bioconversion and a two‐step process was conducted to maximize the metabolites production. The effect of pH was found to be significantly important for FA bioconversion, as acidic conditions (pH < 6.0) improved VA accumulation, with highest production of 1.14 ± 0.02 and 1.25 ± 0.03 g/L shown by UFMG‐CM‐Y3647 and UFMG‐CM‐Y2190, respectively. The two‐step process favored 4‐VG production for most strains, being UFMG‐CM‐Y2190 the best producer, its cultures reaching 1.63 ± 0.09 g/L after 55 hr, showing a productivity of 29.59 ± 1.55 mg/(L·hr), as glucose affected the metabolites pool and redirected yeast metabolism. R mucilaginosa UFMG‐CM‐Y3647 was selected for scaled‐up cultivations in a 2‐L bioreactor, where pH‐controlled pH 5.5 and aeration of 2.5 vvm was found to be the best condition to improve VA productivity, attaining final concentrations of 1.20 ± 0.02 g/L−1 (78% molar yield) and a productivity of 40.82 ± 0.57 mg/(L·hr).
Is critical thinking happening? Testing content analysis schemes applied to MOOC discussion forums
Authors: O'Riordan Tim , Millard David E. , Schulz John
Published: August 2020

Learners’ progress within computer‐supported collaborative learning environments is typically measured via analysis and interpretation of quantitative web interaction measures. However, the usefulness of these “proxies for learning” is questioned as they do not necessarily reflect critical thinking—an essential component of collaborative learning. Research indicates that pedagogical content analysis schemes have value in measuring critical discourse in small scale, formal, online learning environments, but research using these methods on high volume, informal, Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) forums is less common. The challenge in this setting is to develop valid and reliable indicators that operate successfully at scale. In this study, we test two established coding schemes used for the pedagogical content analysis of online discussions in a large‐scale review of MOOC comment data. Pedagogical Scores are derived from manual ratings applied to comments by raters and correlated with automatically derived linguistic and interaction indicators. Results show that the content analysis methods are reliable, and are very strongly correlated with each other, suggesting that their specific format is not significant in this setting. In addition, the methods are strongly associated with the relevant linguistic indicators of higher levels of learning and have weaker correlations with other linguistic and interaction metrics. This suggests promise for further research using Machine Learning techniques, with the goal of providing realistic feedback to instructors, learners, and learning designers.
Education in times of crisis: Rapid transition to distance learning
Authors: Bojović Živko , Bojović Petar D. , Vujošević Dušan , Šuh Jelena
Published: August 2020

The COVID‐19 crisis is having a significant impact on the quality of life and future of young people; it can also lead to disruption in education. A disruption would pose a severe threat to the entire society in the postcrisis period. Therefore, educational institutions must respond quickly and ensure the continuity of the educational processes. Our research goal has been to develop and implement a model enabling a rapid transition from the traditional to the distance learning model in a state of emergency. Our focus has been on conceiving technical, organizational, and pedagogical changes that educational organizations need to implement to enable different interaction methods, ensure continuity, and provide high‐quality education. We have defined and implemented a model, which is described in detail in this paper, thus giving guidelines for a rapid transition to distance learning, which is not restricted to the crisis times only. We have evaluated our approach by monitoring the IT solutions and surveying students and teachers at the School of Computing, Union University of Belgrade. The results indicate the high satisfaction of these participants in the educational processes. They imply the acceptability of prolonged distance learning, if needed, and embrace the hybrid education model for the next generation of students.
Nutritional status and survival of 8247 cancer patients with or without diabetes mellitus—results from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Cong Minghua , Zhu Wenjie , Wang Chang , Fu Zhenming , Song Chunhua , Dai Zhong , Yao Keqing , Guo Zengqing , Lin Yuan , Shi Yingying , Hu Wen , Ba Yi , Li Suyi , Li Zengning , Wang Kunhua , Wu Jing , He Ying , Yang Jiajun , Xie Conghua , Song Xinxia , Chen Gongyan , Ma Wenjun , Luo Suxia , Chen Zihua , Ma Hu , Zhou Chunling , Wang Wei , Luo Qi , Shi Yongmei , Qi Yumei , Jiang Haiping , Guan Wenxian , Chen Junqiang , Chen Jiaxin , Fang Yu , Zhou Lan , Feng Yongdong , Tan Rongshao , Li Tao , Ou Junwen , Zhao Qingchuan , Wu Jianxiong , Deng Li , Lin Xin , Yang Liuqing , Xu Hongxia , Li Wei , Yu Lei , Shi Hanping ,   Investigation on Nutrition Status, Clinical Outcome of Common Cancers (INSCOC) Group
Published: August 2020

Background

The number of cancer patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is steadily rising. Little is known about the nutritional status of this population. This study characterized the nutritional status and survival of cancer patients with diabetes compared with those without diabetes.

Methods

A total of 8247 cancer patients were prospectively enrolled from 72 hospitals in China and followed until August 2019. A global estimation of the nutritional status was performed for each participant using standardized tools. The outcomes were cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

The incidence of diabetes was 7.6% in the whole population. In comparison with the non‐DM group, the DM group had greater body weight, but a similar fat‐free mass, a lower handgrip strength and a decreased Karnofsky performance score. A higher proportion of patients with diabetes were overweight/obese as indicated by BMI. The percentage of patients who were at risk of malnutrition (evaluated by PG‐SGA) was higher in the DM group (score ≥ 4, 56.7% vs 52.9%). Patients with DM showed a worse CSS (4‐year CSS, 62% vs 73%) and OS (4‐year OS 39% vs 52%). Diabetes was associated with an increased risk of both cancer‐specific (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.282, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.070‐1.536) and overall (HR = 1.206, 95% CI 1.040‐1.399) mortality.

Conclusions

Cancer patients with diabetes had a larger body mass but lower muscle strength, poorer performance status and higher incidence of malnourishment. Diabetes was associated with compromised survival. Tailored nutritional intervention is necessary for this subpopulation of patients.
The COVID‐19 Pandemic and Its Impact on Children in Domestic Violence Refuges
Authors: Øverlien Carolina
Published: August 2020

Key Practitioner Messages

The COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in negative consequences for children exposed to violence and abuse.

Domestic violence refuge staff were greatly concerned about children both living outside and inside refuges.

Domestic violence refuges have played a pivotal role during the COVID‐19 pandemic and should receive wider acknowledgement and greater support for their work.
Sports officials prepare to return to officiating during pandemic
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: August 2020

As eager as many college student‐athletes, coaches, staff, and fans may be for the return to competition, it can't happen unless sports officials also return to their highly critical roles.
Were coaches responsible for student‐athlete's injuries?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2020

The plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Molloy College, among others, due to injuries he allegedly sustained in an intercollegiate soccer match while a student‐athlete at the school. According to the plaintiff, he sustained a concussion during the first 10 minutes of the match when the soccer ball struck him in the head. Moreover, the plaintiff claimed the school's coaches and trainers allowed him to continue playing until he was replaced by another player in the final minutes of the match. The plaintiff argued he endured increased risk of injury when he was left in the match after suffering his head injury, which he claimed aggravated his injuries beyond the initial concussion.
Prepare to continue leading staff, student‐athletes in rapidly changing environment rife with challenges
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: August 2020

As Associate Professor and Undergraduate Program Coordinator of Sport Management at Eastern Michigan University, who also supervises student internships, Erica J. Zonder, J.D., M.S., usually spends the spring and summer talking to dozens of organizations that have internship pipelines and sending multiple emails per week to current and former students about opportunities. But, of course, circumstances have been far from typical for Zonder and everyone else involved with college athletics.
Potential small‐molecule drugs as available weapons to fight novel coronavirus (2019‐nCoV): A review
Authors: Rahimkhoei Vahid , Jabbari Nassrollah , Nourani Aynaz , Sharifi Sina , Akbari Ali
Published: August 2020

Since the new coronavirus known as 2019‐nCoV (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS‐CoV‐2) has widely spread in Wuhan, China, with severe pneumonia, scientists and physicians have made remarkable efforts to use various options such as monoclonal antibodies, peptides, vaccines, small‐molecule drugs and interferon therapies to control, prevent or treatment infections of 2019‐nCoV. However, no vaccine or drug has yet been confirmed to completely treat 2019‐nCoV. In this review, we focus on the use of potential available small‐molecule drug candidates for treating infections caused by 2019‐nCoV.
Increased ABCC2 expression predicts cisplatin resistance in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chen Yun , Zhou Hongying , Yang Sifu , Su Dan
Published: August 2020

Long‐term use of platinum‐based drugs can cause non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to develop extremely strong drug resistance. Increasing the drug dosage does not have better treatment effects and could lead to serious complications. High levels of drug resistance are considered to be characteristic of human tumours and are usually mediated by genes related to multidrug resistance. Multidrug resistance‐associated protein 2 (ABCC2), an ATP‐binding cassette multidrug resistance transporter, was found to be overexpressed in various human cancers. In this study, we found that ABCC2 was also upregulated in cisplatin (DDP)‐resistant A549 cells (A549/DDP). Functional studies demonstrated that ABCC2 knockdown reversed DDP resistance and promoted G1 phase arrest in A549/DDP cells, and PARP and caspase‐3 were activated in A549/DDP cells following ABCC2 knockdown. In vivo, ABCC2 knockdown enhanced the cytotoxicity of DDP to subcutaneous A549 tumours. Together, these results suggest that ABCC2 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for overcoming DDP resistance in NSCLC patients.

Significance of the study

In this study, we investigated the role of ABCC2 in cisplatin resistance of NSCLC cells. Our data show that ABCC2 expression was associated with resistance to cisplatin and that knockdown ABCC2 could reverse cisplatin resistance in NSCLC cells. Taken together, our study suggests that reducing the expression of ABCC2 could become an important strategy for enhancing the sensitivity of NSCLC cells to cisplatin.
Exploring Epigenetic Marks by Analysis of Noncovalent Interactions
Authors: Millan Judith , Lesarri Alberto , Fernández José A. , Martínez Rodrigo
Published: August 2020

Epigenetic marks are modest chemical modifications on DNA and histone proteins that regulate the activation or silencing of genes through modulation of the intermolecular interactions between the DNA strands and the protein machinery. The process is complex and not always well understood. One of the systems studied in greater detail is the epigenetic mark on H3K9: lysine 9 of histone 3. The degree of methylation or acetylation of this histone is linked to silencing or activation of the corresponding gene, but it is not clear which effect each mark has in gene expression. We shed light on this particular methylation process by using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. First, we built a model consisting of a DNA double strand containing three base pairs and a sequence of three amino acids of the histone's tail. Then, we computed the modulation introduced into the intermolecular interactions by each epigenetic modification: from mono‐ to trimethylation and acetylation. The calculations show that whereas acetylation and trimethylation result in a reduction of the DNA‐peptide interaction; non‐, mono‐, and dimethylation increase the intermolecular interactions. Such observations compare well with the findings reported in the literature, and highlight the correlation between the balance of intermolecular forces and biological properties, simultaneously advancing quantum‐mechanical studies of large biochemical systems at molecular level through the use of DFT methods.