bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and Accurate Classification of Mixed Gases Using Machine Learning with Impedance Data
Authors: Lee Kookjin , Nam Sangjin , Kim Hyojun , Jeon Dae‐Young , Shin Dongha , Lim Hyeong‐Gyun , Kim Chulmin , Kim Doyoon , Kim Yeonsu , Byeon Sang‐Hoon , Kim Gyu‐Tae
Published: June 2020

An inexpensive and effective technique based on machine learning (ML) algorithms with impedance characterization to sense and classify mixed gases is presented. Specifically, this method demonstrates that ML algorithms can distinguish hidden and valuable feature information such as different gas molecules from surface‐charged activated carbon fibers. The feature information used for ML is obtained by measuring the impedance and fitting the measured values to an equivalent circuit model. The mixed gases are classified using such feature information to train various automatic classifiers. The collected data consist of the resistances and capacitances extracted from best fitting results in Cole–Cole plots, and they are 5D vectors. The data processed with unsupervised learning are clustered, evaluated with Silhouette scores, and then the unique hidden patterns of individual gases in the mixed gases are obtained. When the supervised ML algorithm, k‐nearest neighbor classifier, is used for the analytical features, all combinations of gases have 94% classification accuracy, demonstrating the superiority of the proposed technique.
Biaxial Strains Mediated Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis on Fenton Reaction Resistant L10‐PtZn Fuel Cell Cathode
Authors: Liang Jiashun , Zhao Zhonglong , Li Na , Wang Xiaoming , Li Shenzhou , Liu Xuan , Wang Tanyuan , Lu Gang , Wang Deli , Hwang Bing‐Joe , Huang Yunhui , Su Dong , Li Qing
Published: June 2020

PtM alloy catalysts (e.g., PtFe, PtCo), especially in an intermetallic L10 structure, have attracted considerable interest due to their respectable activity and stability for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, metal‐catalyzed formation of ·OH from H2O2 (i.e., Fenton reaction) by Fe‐ or Co‐containing catalysts causes severe degradation of PEM/catalyst layers, hindering the prospects of commercial applications. Zinc is known as an antioxidant in Fenton reaction, but is rarely alloyed with Pt owing to its relatively negative redox potential. Here, sub‐4 nm intermetallic L10‐PtZn nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized as high‐performance PEMFC cathode catalysts. In PEMFC tests, the L10‐PtZn cathode achieves outstanding activity (0.52 A mgPt−1 at 0.9 ViR‐free, and peak power density of 2.00 W cm−2) and stability (only 16.6% loss in mass activity after 30 000 voltage cycles), exceeding the U.S. DOE 2020 targets and most of the reported ORR catalysts. Density function theory calculations reveal that biaxial strains developed upon the disorder‐order (A1L10) transition of PtZn NPs would modulate the surface PtPt distances and optimize PtO binding for ORR activity enhancement, while the increased vacancy formation energy of Zn atoms in an ordered structure accounts for the improved stability.
2‐Thiopheneformamidinium‐Based 2D Ruddlesden–Popper Perovskite Solar Cells with Efficiency of 16.72% and Negligible Hysteresis
Authors: Dong Yixin , Lu Di , Xu Zhiyuan , Lai Hongtao , Liu Yongsheng
Published: June 2020

Formamidinium (FA)‐based 3D perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been widely studied and they show reduced bandgap, enhanced stability, and improved efficiency compared to MAPbI3‐based devices. Nevertheless, the FA‐based spacers have rarely been studied for 2D Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) perovskites, which have drawn wide attention due to their enormous potential for fabricating efficient and stable photovoltaic devices. Here, for the first time, FA‐based derivative, 2‐thiopheneformamidinium (ThFA), is successfully synthesized and employed as an organic spacer for 2D RP PSCs. A precursor organic salts‐assisted crystal growth technique is further developed to prepare high quality 2D (ThFA)2(MA)n−1PbnI3n+1 (nominal n = 3) perovskite films, which shows preferential vertical growth orientations, high charge carrier mobilities, and reduced trap density. As a result, the 2D RP PSCs with an inverted planar p‐i‐n structure exhibit a dramatically improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 7.23% to 16.72% with negligible hysteresis, which is among the highest PCE in 2D RP PSCs with low nominal n‐value of 3. Importantly, the optimized 2D PSCs exhibit a dramatically improved stability with less than 1% degradation after storage in N2 for 3000 h without encapsulation. These findings provide an effective strategy for developing FA‐based organic spacers toward highly efficient and stable 2D PSCs.
Recent Progress on Advanced Imaging Techniques for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Deng Zhe , Lin Xing , Huang Zhenyu , Meng Jintao , Zhong Yun , Ma Guangting , Zhou Yu , Shen Yue , Ding Han , Huang Yunhui
Published: June 2020

Lithium‐ion batteries are the most commercially successful electrochemical devices, extensively used in intelligent electronics, electric vehicles, grid energy storages, etc. However, there still needs to be further improvement of their performance such as in energy density, cyclability, rate capability, and safety. To do so, it is necessary to understand the detailed structural evolution progress inside the battery. Many advanced imaging techniques have been developed to directly monitor the status and get some key information inside the battery. For advanced imaging techniques, superhigh resolution, fully informative function, nondestruction of the sample, and in situ observation are required. This review introduces and discusses some recent important progress on a variety of advanced imaging techniques for battery research. These imaging techniques have enabled the visualization of sub‐micrometer level chemical valence distribution, evolution of solid‐electrolyte interface, Li dendrite growth, and trace amount of gassing, etc., which greatly promote the development of rechargeable batteries. Of particular note, a new ultrasonic imaging technique has been recently developed to monitor gas generation, the electrolyte wetting process, and the state of charge in the battery. Finally, a perspective is given on some future developments in the imaging techniques for Li‐ion batteries and other rechargeable batteries.
Opportunities and Reality of Aqueous Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Shin Jaeho , Choi Jang Wook
Published: June 2020

Despite the dominance of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) in today's battery market, they are not flawless. Accordingly, the battery community is striving to strengthen the global battery portfolio with alternative systems. One branch of this effort is research into aqueous rechargeable batteries (ARBs). The simplicity of this concept, as well as rising safety concerns in commercial LIBs, has attracted numerous ARB‐related investigations in the past decade. Such heightened interest calls for a critical assessment of the field, especially with respect to its current state and potential opportunities. This essay examines the reality of ARBs in terms of their current socio‐technological context, which has been formed through a long history of battery research and development, often intertwined with social demands of the time. Attention is directed toward rechargeable batteries, briefly discussing their history, chemistry, and applications. The emergence of LIBs and their quick rise to market dominance with the concurrent fall of primitive ARBs serves as context for evaluating the current reality for newly emerging ARBs. Assessing their current position in academia and the battery market allows us to identify future opportunities and hurdles for incorporating ARBs into the global battery portfolio.
A permeation model study of oxygen transport kinetics of BaxSr1‐xCo0.8Fe0.2O3‐δ
Authors: Zhu Yue , Cai Lili , Li Wenping , Cao Zhongwei , Li Hongbo , Jiang Heqing , Zhu Xuefeng , Yang Weishen
Published: June 2020

BaxSr1‐xCo0.8Fe0.2O3‐δ (BSCF) materials with different Ba doping amounts are widely applied as membranes for oxygen separation and electrodes in solid oxide cells. Different opinions were put forward about the effect of Ba contents on the oxygen transport kinetics. In this work, an oxygen permeation model was first used to investigate the effect of Ba content in BSCF (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7) on the oxygen transport kinetics. The permeation resistance constants were obtained separately through fitting the condition experimental data to the model. With the increase of Ba content, the interfacial oxygen exchange resistance constants of both sides decrease quickly and then increase slightly, while bulk diffusion resistance remains monotone decreasing. The improvement of oxygen permeation flux is mainly contributed by the enhancement of interfacial oxygen exchange kinetics. It is inferred that Ba element may play an important role in the interfacial oxygen reactions.
Design and Control of Bioinspired Millibots
Authors: Reghu Sheethal , You Hui , Seenivasan Kalaivani , Nishimura Shun , Taniike Toshiaki , Miyako Eijiro
Published: June 2020

In the last decade, there has been great progress in the field of smart materials and technologies for the development of bio‐inspired artificial insects. An insect‐mimetic functional nanocomposite, namely, millimeter‐sized robot (millibot), based on magnetite, zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8, and polytetrafluoroethylene is successfully prepared. The millibots are designed through a rational chemical design for controlling its multi‐functions by external light and magnetic field, which act as fuels. The millibots can be effectively loaded with CO2 gas and remotely controlled by photothermal energy for the release of CO2 molecules from the laser‐induced millibots to anesthetize fruit flies as a potential foreign enemy. A remote regulation of the photo‐ and magnetic field‐induced millibot dynamic locomotion is demonstrated. As a proof of principle, millibots equipped with a gelatin particle encapsulating rhodamine B are efficaciously used in the bio‐inspired spawning of an artificial insect. The materials and strategies could inspire new designs for the development of high‐performance biologically active insect‐type robots in the future.
Dynamical Fracture in Ice Ih as Modeled by TIP4P/Ice and mW Water Potentials
Authors: Moreira Pedro Augusto Franco Pinheiro
Published: June 2020

Fracture in ice Ih is simulated with molecular dynamics utilizing two potential fields, TIP4P/Ice and mW, and in different temperature conditions. The simulations produce propagating crack speeds over a large range of fracture energies. Terminal crack speed simulated with TIP4P/Ice potential can reach more than 200 m/s befitting experimental results. On the other hand, for mW potential, crack speed is around 5 m/s. The TIP4P/ice model suggests a brittle ice while mW potential describes a much more ductile material. The computational simulations are designed to permit direct comparison with experiments which can be performed in the hereafter. This comparison could provide a sensitive test to interatomic potentials.
One‐Pot Tandem Michael Addition/Enantioselective Conia‐Ene Cyclization Mediated by Chiral Iron(III)/Silver(I) Cooperative Catalysis
Authors: Horibe Takahiro , Sakakibara Masato , Hiramatsu Rin , Takeda Kazuki , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: June 2020

The first one‐pot tandem Michael addition/enantioselective Conia‐ene cyclization of N‐protected prop‐2‐yn‐1‐amines with 2‐methylene‐3‐oxoalkanoates promoted by chiral iron(III)/silver(I) cooperative catalysts has been developed. Alkyl 4‐methylenepyrrolidine‐3‐acyl‐3‐carboxylates, which can be transformed into β‐proline derivatives, are obtained in high yield with high enantioselectivity.
Total Syntheses of (−)‐Conidiogenone B, (−)‐Conidiogenone, and (−)‐Conidiogenol
Authors: Xu Bo , Xun Wen , Su Shaobin , Zhai Hongbin
Published: June 2020

Cyclopianes are novel diterpenes featuring a highly strained 6/5/5/5 tetracyclic core embedded with 6–8 consecutive stereocenters. The concise total syntheses of (−)‐conidiogenone B, (−)‐conidiogenone, and (−)‐conidiogenol have been accomplished in 14–17 steps. The present work features a HAT‐mediated alkene–nitrile cyclization to access the cis‐biquinane, a Nicholas/Pauson–Khand reaction to construct the linear triquinane, and a Danheiser annulation to afford the congested angular triquinane skeleton.
Electrospun mat of thermal‐treatment‐induced nanocomposite hydrogel of polyvinyl alcohol and cerium oxide for biomedical applications
Authors: More Namdev , Ranglani Deepak , Kharche Shubham , Kapusetti Govinda
Published: June 2020

Hydrogels are one of the most thought‐provoking formulations used widely for biomedical applications. In the present investigation, poly(vinyl) alcohol (PVA) and its cerium oxide (CO) composite‐based hydrogels were prepared by the combination of electrospinning and thermal processing technique. The partial crosslinking, along with time‐controlled heating (10 min), delivered PVA hydrogel. The mechanism was explained with Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, where the hydroxyl group disappeared in long‐duration (30 min) of heat treatment and they retain in lesser duration. The heat‐treated PVA transformed from amorphous to crystalline, since the Tg of PVA disappeared in 30 min heat treatment, while the Tg increased to 85°C (10 min heat treatment) from 70°C in PVA, suggested the full and partial crystallinity. The swelling and porosity studies reveal the hydrogel formation of heat‐treated PVA. Interestingly, CO reinforced PVA composites show better swelling with respect to heat‐treated PVA. Furthermore, CO reinforced PVA hydrogel demonstrated better biocompatibility platelet adhesion and accelerated wound healing competence.
Transmetalation in a Ce(III)‐phosphoester Crystalline Coordination Polymer with an Exceptionally High Selectivity for Yb(III) and Lu(III)
Authors: Tasaki‐Handa Yuiko , Tsuda Shiori , Shibukawa Masami , Saito Shingo
Published: June 2020

A novel crystalline coordination polymer containing Ce3+ and bis(4‐nitrophenyl) phosphate (L), CeL3, was synthesized and its unique transmetalation selectivities toward Yb3+ and Lu3+ in the lanthanide series were evaluated. The relatively large difference in transmetalation selectivity between the neighboring Tm3+ and Yb3+ species is noteworthy because the reactivities of heavy lanthanides are generally considerably similar. The structural strain of the polymeric framework is likely responsible for this unusual trend. Powder X‐ray diffraction analysis indicated that, in the cases of only Yb3+ and Lu3+, large differences in their ionic sizes compared to that of Ce3+ in the parent framework may induce a structural strain after solid solution formation, while cleavage of the relatively weak Ce−O bond allows the formation of new Yb−O and Lu−O bonds with the incoming Yb3+ and Lu3+, respectively. Structural phase transitions likely caused by the heterogeneous nucleation of the Yb‐ (or Lu‐) type phase were also observed.
Observer‐Based Sensor Attack Diagnosis for Cyber‐Physical Systems via Zonotope Theory
Authors: Zhang Xiangming , Zhu Fanglai
Published: June 2020

This paper investigates the attack detection, isolation and reconstruction problems for cyber‐physical systems (CPSs) under sensor attacks. We deal with all the issues in view of an overall system instead of every subsystem. To begin with, a Luenberger‐like observer is designed and a state interval estimation method is proposed based on the zonotope theory. And then, a sensor attack detection scheme is developed by using the interval estimation of the output error as the dynamic residual. Besides, the sensor detection method is modified to form a sensor attack isolation method to locate the exact subsystems suffering from sensor attacks. Moreover, by treating sensor attacks as part of the states, an augmented descriptor system is constructed and the state and sensor attack asymptotic estimation problems are discussed in detail. Finally, a simulation example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Detailed atmospheric ice accretion surface measurement using micro‐computed tomography
Authors: Velandia Juan S. , Bansmer Stephan E.
Published: June 2020

Surfaces exposed to atmospheric cold temperature and humid environments are prone to ice accretion. Airplanes, electrical power transmission cables, and wind turbines are typical examples for which icing has to be considered. The measurement of the resulting ice shapes is a challenging process. While macroscopic characteristics of the ice geometry can be observed using photography and optical scanning techniques, microscopic measurements are difficult to conduct because grooved surface partially occludes the geometry of chasms. To overcome this optical inaccessibility, we propose a method to carry out detailed high‐resolution measurements of the accretion surface with micro‐computed tomography. This approach provides a unique visualization of the empty spaces in the feather region. The information obtained by this technique can improve the understanding of ice accretion physics and its computational modeling.
Untersuchung der hygrothermischen Eigenschaften eines ökologischen Bodenaufbaus aus Lehm
Authors: Fischer Henriette , Salonen Tarja , Mitterböck Michael , Korjenic Azra
Published: June 2020

Der Einsatz von ökologischen Konstruktionen begegnet oft Hemmnissen aufgrund von Unsicherheiten bezüglich hygrothermischer Kennwerte in Planung und Ausführung. Speziell im erdberührten Bereich gibt es für Hochbauten wenig ökologische Alternativen zu konventionellen Fußbodenaufbauten aus Stahlbeton und erdölbasierter Abdichtung. In dieser Studie wurde ein Bodenaufbau, bestehend aus Glasschaumgranulat und drei verschiedenen Lehmschichten, auf seine hygrothermische Funktionsfähigkeit und Behaglichkeit im Innenraum untersucht und beurteilt. Dabei wurde der Bodenaufbau mittels Simulationen und In situ‐Monitoring analysiert. Der untersuchte Bodenaufbau ist hygrothermisch funktionstüchtig und stellt im Zusammenhang mit Streifenfundamenten eine diffusionsoffene, emissionsarme Alternative zu herkömmlichen Betonaufbauten im Hochbau dar.
Design and synthesis of two new terbium and europium complex‐based luminescent probes for the selective detection of zinc ions
Authors: Waheed Abdul , Abdel‐Azeim Safwat , Ullah Nisar , Oladepo Sulayman A.
Published: June 2020

Zinc plays a key role in many physiological processes and has implications for the environment. Consequently, detection of chelatable zinc ion (Zn2+) has attracted widespread interest from the research community. Lanthanide‐based luminescent probes offer particular advantages, such as high water solubility, long luminescence lifetimes and a large Stokes’ shift, over common organic dye‐based fluorescent sensors. Here, we report the synthesis of terbium and europium complex‐based probes, Tb‐1 and Eu‐1, for sensitive and selective detection of Zn2+ in water. These probes featured the incorporation of bis(2‐pyridylmethyl)]amine (DPA) receptor for Zn2+ chelation and the 1,4,7‐tris(carboxymethyl)‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane (DO3A) ring to chelate lanthanide (Ln3+). Tb‐1 and Eu‐1 displayed high selectivity for Zn2+ ions over a wide range of competing ions, with limits of detection of 0.50 ± 0.1 μM and 1.5 ± 0.01 μM, respectively. Density functional theory simulations were in good agreement with experimental observations, displaying high Zn2+ selectivity compared with most competing ions. In the competing ions experiments, the luminescence response of Tb‐1 and Eu‐1 was moderately quenched by some ions such as Cu2+, this was linked to the comparable binding abilities of these ions for the receptor of the probe.
Flipped learning: As a solution for course duration
Authors: Gürsoy Gülden , Orhan Göksün Derya
Published: June 2020

The present study was conducted to investigate solutions for the practical problem of theoretical instruction included in the course content of the Measurement and Evaluation Course, instructed for 3 hr weekly. The study was designed as an action research to improve the quality of the learning process in the course. First, it was attempted to extend the course hours without success. Then, the flipped learning (FL) method was used for 5 weeks. FL led to the expected impact and provided a solution to the research problem and most participants reported positive views on the method and the course. Based on the above‐mentioned findings, it could be suggested that the FL method could be a solution for the problem of the lack of sufficient time in the course; however, the findings could differ based on both group characteristics and adequacy of the course content.
Long‐term health‐related quality of life among men with prostate cancer in the Finnish randomized study of screening for prostate cancer
Authors: Talala Kirsi , Heinävaara Sirpa , Taari Kimmo , Tammela Teuvo L. J. , Kujala Paula , Stenman Ulf‐Håkan , Malila Nea , Auvinen Anssi
Published: June 2020

Background

The long‐term health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) impacts of PCa screening have not been adequately evaluated. We aimed to compare the generic and disease‐specific health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) among men with prostate cancer in the screening arm with the control arm of the PSA‐based prostate cancer screening trial in up to 15 years of follow‐up.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted within population‐based Finnish Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (FinRSPC). During 1996‐1999 80,458 men were randomized to the serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening arm (SA, N = 32 000) and the control arm (CA, N = 48 458). Men in the screening arm were screened at 4‐year intervals until 2007. HRQOL questionnaires were delivered to newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients in the screening and control arm 1996‐2006 (N = 5128) at the time of diagnosis (baseline), at 3‐month, 12‐month and 5, 10, and 15‐year follow‐up. Validated UCLA Prostate Cancer Index (UCLA‐PCI) and RAND 36‐Item Health Survey were used for HRQOL assessment. The data were analyzed with a random effects model for repeated measures.

Results

At baseline, men with prostate cancer in the screening arm reported better Sexual Function, as well as less Sexual and Urinary Bother. Long‐term follow‐up revealed slightly higher HRQOL scores in the screening arm in prostate cancer specific measures at 10‐year post diagnosis, but the differences were statistically significant only in Urinary Bother (UCLA‐PCI score 77.9; 95% CI 75.2 to 80.5 vs. 70.9; 95% CI 66.8 to 74.9 P = .005). The generic HRQOL scores were comparable between the trial arms. The overall differences in disease‐specific or generic HRQOL scores by trial arm did not vary during the follow‐up.

Conclusion

No major differences were observed in HRQOL in men with prostate cancer between the prostate cancer screening and control arms during five to 15‐year follow‐up.
Selective Recovery of Ammonia Nitrogen from Wastewaters with Transition Metal‐Loaded Polymeric Cation Exchange Adsorbents
Authors: Clark Brandon , Tarpeh William A.
Published: June 2020

Extracting valuable products from wastewaters with nitrogen‐selective adsorbents can offset energy‐intensive ammonia production, rebalance the nitrogen cycle, and incentivize environmental remediation. Separating nitrogen (N) as ammonium from other wastewater cations (e.g., K+, Ca2+) presents a major challenge to N removal from wastewater and N recovery as high‐purity products. High selectivity and capacity were achieved through ligand exchange of ammonia with ammine‐complexing transition metals loaded onto polymeric cation exchange resins. Compared to commercial resins, metal–ligand exchange adsorbents exhibited higher ammonia removal capacity (8 mequiv g−1) and selectivity (N/K+ equilibrium selectivity of 10.1) in binary equimolar solutions. Considering optimal ammonia concentrations (200–300 mequiv L−1) and pH (9–10) for metal–ligand exchange, hydrolyzed urine was identified as a promising candidate for selective TAN recovery. However, divalent cation exchange increased transition metal elution and reduced ammonia adsorption. Ultimately, metal–ligand exchange adsorbents can advance nitrogen‐selective separations from wastewaters.
Practical Guidelines for Collection, Manipulation and Inactivation of SARS‐CoV‐2 and COVID‐19 Clinical Specimens
Authors: Bain William , Lee Janet S. , Watson Alan M. , Stitt‐Fischer Molly S.
Published: June 2020

SARS‐CoV‐2 is a novel coronavirus that causes the acute respiratory disease—Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19)—which has led to a global health crisis. Currently, no prophylactics or therapies exist to control virus spread or mitigate the disease. Thus, the risk of infection for physicians and scientists is high, requiring work to be conducted in Biosafety Level‐3 (BSL‐3) facilities if virus will be isolated or propagated. However, inactivation of the virus can enable safe handling at a reduced biosafety level, making samples accessible to a diverse array of institutions and investigators. Institutions of all types have an immediate need for guidelines that outline safe collection, handling, and inactivation of samples suspected to contain active virus. Here we provide a practical guide for physicians and researchers wishing to work with materials from patients who are COVID‐19 positive or suspected positive. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Practical guidelines for the safe collection and handling of specimens collected from COVID‐19 and suspected COVID‐19 patients

Basic Protocol 2: Inactivating SARS‐CoV‐2
Study on the cost allocation method to maximize the benefit of e‐commerce enterprises in the cloud computing environment
Authors: Zhao Jinfang
Published: June 2020

Cloud computing is a brand‐new IT service delivery model. It is a key strategic technology and means to lead the innovation of the information industry in the future. It can effectively solve the dynamic demand and final cost of e‐commerce enterprise resources, and it can reduce costs for e‐commerce enterprises to improve management, promote information development, and achieve resource integration. It is a key factor in shaping and enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises. Fuzzy paradigm should be understood and used at the level of world view and methodology, and should be recognized that it has different forms and properties in different disciplines. Based on the cloud computing environment, this article proposes a task allocation model, taking into account the utility functions of different users, and maximizing the overall terminal benefits by assigning computational tasks on a large number of terminals to virtual machine instances. The simulation results show that the overall benefit of the terminal under this allocation model is significantly higher than that of the overall terminal under the centralized task allocation model.
Use of CRISPR/Cas9 for Targeted Mutagenesis in Sorghum
Authors: Char Si Nian , Lee Hyeyoung , Yang Bing
Published: June 2020

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) fulfills the demand for bioenergy resources and also provides substantial diet calories to the world's population. Therefore, many biological studies use sorghum as a research model for improvement of the domesticated food and bioenergy crops. Furthermore, leveraging genome editing systems in a plethora of grass plant species has been extensively studied with no exception in sorghum. However, a protocol that details the genome editing strategies using CRISPR/Cas9 and that combines an efficient tissue culture and transformation platform in sorghum based on Agrobacterium‐mediated DNA transfer has yet to be reported. This protocol outlines the steps and workflow from design of sorghum CRISPR target sites using BTx623 as a reference genome, construction of sorghum CRISPR/Cas9 plasmids, tissue culture, to Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation followed by genotyping of CRISPR/Cas9 induced mutants. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Construction of CRISPR/Cas9 expression vector to analysis of CRISPR‐edited plants

Basic Protocol 2: Stable transformation of sorghum

Support Protocol: Management of sorghum plants in a greenhouse
Integrative transcriptomic analysis of pancreatic islets from patients with prediabetes/type 2 diabetes
Authors: Mencucci María V. , Flores Luis E. , Gagliardino Juan J. , Abba Martín C. , Maiztegui Bárbara
Published: June 2020

Aim

To identify new transcriptomic alterations in pancreatic islets associated with metabolic dysfunctions in people with prediabetes (PD)/type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods

We collected information from public data repositories T2D related microarray datasets from pancreatic islets. We identified Differential Expressed Genes (DEGs) in non‐diabetic (ND) vs people with T2D in each study. To identify relevant DEGs in T2D, we selected those that varied consistently in the different studies for further meta‐analysis and functional enrichment analysis. DEGs were also evaluated at the PD stage.

Results

A total of seven microarray datasets were collected and analysed to find the DEGs in each study and meta‐analysis was performed with 245 ND and 96 T2D cases. We identified 55 transcriptional alterations potentially associated with specific metabolic dysfunctions in T2D. Meta‐analysis showed that 87% of transcripts identified as DEGs (48 out of 55) were confirmed as having statistically significant up‐ or down‐modulation in T2D compared to ND. Notably, nine of these DEGs have not been previously reported as dysregulated in pancreatic islets from people with T2D. Consistently, the most significantly enriched pathways were related to the metabolism and/or development/maintenance of β‐cells. Eighteen of the 48 selected DEGs (38%) showed an altered expression in islets from people with PD.

Conclusions

These results provide new evidence to interpret the pathogenesis of T2D and the transition from PD to T2D. Further studies are necessary to validate its potential use for the development/implementation of efficient new strategies for the prevention, diagnosis/prognosis and treatment of T2D.
DNA mini‐barcoding of leporids using noninvasive fecal DNA samples and its significance for monitoring an invasive species
Authors: Rodrigues Nayra T. , Saranholi Bruno H. , Angeloni Thais A. , Pasqualotto Nielson , Chiarello Adriano G. , Galetti Jr Pedro M.
Published: June 2020

Introduced in South America at the end of the 19th century, the European hare population has expanded dramatically and now represents a risk to native Brazilian forest rabbits. Monitoring the invasive Lepus europaeus and its coexistence with native Sylvilagus brasiliensis is a challenge that can be efficiently addressed by the use of molecular tools. This work describes a set of primers useful for amplifying three mini‐barcodes for the molecular identification of both invasive and native leporid species using degraded fecal DNA. In addition, tests in silico indicate that these mini‐barcodes can successfully amplify the DNA sequences of a number of leporids. These mini‐barcodes constitute a powerful tool for the monitoring and management of the invasive L. europaeus and the conservation of native rabbits.
“A cleaner break”: Genetic divergence between geographic groups and sympatric phenotypes revealed in ballan wrasse (Labrus bergylta)
Authors: Seljestad Gaute W. , Quintela María , Faust Ellika , Halvorsen Kim T. , Besnier François , Jansson Eeva , Dahle Geir , Knutsen Halvor , André Carl , Folkvord Arild , Glover Kevin A.
Published: June 2020

Capture and long‐distance translocation of cleaner fish to control lice infestations on marine salmonid farms has the potential to influence wild populations via overexploitation in source regions, and introgression in recipient regions. Knowledge of population genetic structure is therefore required. We studied the genetic structure of ballan wrasse, a phenotypically diverse and extensively used cleaner fish, from 18 locations in Norway and Sweden, and from Galicia, Spain, using 82 SNP markers. We detected two very distinct genetic groups in Scandinavia, northwestern and southeastern. These groups were split by a stretch of sandy beaches in southwest Norway, representing a habitat discontinuity for this rocky shore associated benthic egg‐laying species. Wrasse from Galicia were highly differentiated from all Scandinavian locations, but more similar to northwestern than southeastern locations. Distinct genetic differences were observed between sympatric spotty and plain phenotypes in Galicia, but not in Scandinavia. The mechanisms underlying the geographic patterns between phenotypes are discussed, but not identified. We conclude that extensive aquaculture‐mediated translocation of ballan wrasse from Sweden and southern Norway to western and middle Norway has the potential to mix genetically distinct populations. These results question the sustainability of the current cleaner fish practice.
A Search by NBO Analysis for Syndetic Donation in Known X‐ray Structures of Transition Metal Complexes with Close Aromatic Ring C–H···Metal Approaches
Authors: Sajjad M. Arif , Schwerdtfeger Peter , Harrison John A. , Nielson Alastair J.
Published: June 2020

Natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis obtained from density functional theory (DFT) calculations shows that where close approaches of aromatic ring C–H bond hydrogens to transition metal centers indicate an agostic interaction might be present, the angle the ring makes with the coordination plane and the metal···Cagostic separation can determine how significant are the agostic, syndetic (π or σ‐electron density in the vicinity of the agostic carbon interacting with a metal center) and back‐donations that are present. The study reveals that in the few X‐ray crystal structures that are known where agostic bonding is present, the interaction is weak, but the presence of syndetic donation is confirmed in the solid state but is small in magnitude. Agostic interactions present in a Co‐aminophosphane, and Ir and Ru 2‐phenylpyridine complexes show syndetic π‐donation components with NBO E(2) values of only 3.2, 2.1 and 2.1 kcal mol–1 respectively whereas a Rh tris‐triphenylphosphine cation shows minimal agostic donation and η2‐π‐donation and a Pd complex with two dicyclohexylbiphenylphosphine ligands has minimal agostic or syndetic components and appears to contain unusual aromatic ring rotations between the anagostic and agostic states. The work reinforces the multicomponent nature of agostic interactions involving aromatic rings.
Synthesis of 1,5‐Ring‐Fused Imidazoles from Cyclic Imines and TosMIC – Identification of in situ Generated N‐Methyleneformamide as a Catalyst in the van Leusen Imidazole Synthesis
Authors: Rudy Heinrich‐Karl A. , Mayer Peter , Wanner Klaus T.
Published: June 2020

Imidazoles fused with a cyclic system in 1,5‐position were synthesized via the van Leusen imidazole synthesis employing saturated aliphatic tricycles including an imine function in the base catalyzed cycloaddition reaction with p‐toluenesulfonyl‐methyl isocyanide (TosMIC). Thereby, N‐(tosylmethyl)formamide, a decomposition product of TosMIC, was found to act as a promoter of this reaction leading to considerably reduced reaction times and improved yields. Mechanistic studies revealed that N‐(tosylmethyl)formamide is transformed into N‐methyleneformamide acting as a catalyst in this reaction under the applied basic conditions. Being a Michael acceptor, the employed imines add to this compound, thus being transformed into iminium ions. The so formed intermediates facilitate the first step of the van Leusen imidazole synthesis, which is the addition of deprotonated TosMIC to the iminium subunit. N‐methyleneformamide is finally reformed during the overall reaction and can thus be considered as an organocatalyst of the studied cycloaddition reaction.
Synthesis of (+)‐Epoxydon, (–)‐Phyllostine, (–)‐RKTS 33, and (–)‐Parasitenone Featuring Selective Sulfonylation and Oxirane Ring Closure of Aldol Cyclization Products
Authors: Shui Feng , Jia Junhao , Yang Xing , Zhou Qin , Jiang Yimin , Chen Xiaochuan
Published: June 2020

Two new synthetic approaches to anhydrogabosines are developed from the polyoxygenated aldol cyclization intermediates, bearing different O‐protecting groups, which were transformed to various gabosine‐type cyclitols. Selective sulfonylation on the required hydroxyl group of the intermediates and the subsequent oxirane ring closure are employed as the key steps in both approaches, by which (+)‐epoxydon, (–)‐phyllostine, (–)‐RKTS 33, and (–)‐parasitenone were synthesized from δ‐d‐gluconolactone.
Polyenals and Polyenones in Aminocatalysis: A Decade Building Complex Frameworks from Simple Blocks
Authors: Pawar Tushar Janardan , Mitkari Suhas Balasaheb , Peña‐Cabrera Eduardo , Villegas Gómez Clarisa , Cruz Cruz David
Published: June 2020

Polyenals and polyenones are simple chemical compounds which can be constructed into large and complex structures by virtue of aminocatalysis. In the past eight years, new aminocatalytic activation modes based on trienamine, cross‐trienamine, tetraenamine, iminium ion, and vinylogous iminium ion intermediates have attracted great attention in the field of asymmetric synthesis. Key to the increasing focus is their inherent ability to allow functionalization of remote sites with excellent stereoselectivities. Moreover, methodologies involving one‐pot, cascade or multicomponent strategies have been developed through the combination of these new activation modes with classical activation modes. In the course of expanding the applicability of organocatalysis, polyenals and polyenones have been introduced as simple and novel substrates, which have enabled the discovery of new concepts for the synthesis of many diverse and complex privileged structures.
Effects of a person‐centred approach in a school setting for adolescents with chronic pain—The HOPE randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fors Andreas , Wallbing Ulrika , Alfvén Gösta , Kemani Mike K. , Lundberg Mari , Wigert Helena , Nilsson Stefan
Published: June 2020

Background

Chronic pain among adolescents is common but effective interventions applicable in a school setting are rare. Person‐centred care (PCC) is a key factor in improving health by engaging persons as partners in their own care.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, a total of 98 adolescents in secondary school or upper secondary school (aged 14 − 21 years) with chronic pain were randomly assigned to a PCC intervention or standard school healthcare. In the intervention group a pain management programme, based on a PCC approach, comprising four face‐to‐face sessions with a school nurse over a period of 5 weeks was added to standard school healthcare. The main outcome measure was self‐efficacy in daily activities (SEDA scale) and rating scales for pain intensity and pain impact were used as secondary outcome measures.

Results

At the follow‐up, no significant differences were found between the groups in the SEDA scale (p = .608) or in the rating scales for pain intensity (p = .261) and pain impact (p = .836). In the sub‐group analysis, a significant improvement in the SEDA scale was detected at the secondary school in favour of the PCC intervention group (p = .021).

Conclusion

In this pain management programme based on a PCC approach, we found no effect in the total sample, but the programme showed promising results to improve self‐efficacy in daily activities among adolescents at secondary school.

Significance

This study evaluates the effects of a pain management programme based on a PCC approach in a school setting addressing adolescents at upper secondary and secondary schools with chronic pain. No overall effects were shown, but results illustrate that the intervention improved self‐efficacy in adolescents at secondary school. Implementation of a PCC approach in a school setting may have the potential to improve self‐efficacy in daily activities for adolescents with chronic pain at secondary school.
Updated Multiple Linear Regression Models for Predicting Chronic Aluminum Toxicity to Freshwater Aquatic Organisms and Developing Water Quality Guidelines
Authors: DeForest David K. , Brix Kevin V. , Tear Lucinda M. , Cardwell Allison S. , Stubblefield William A. , Nordheim Eirik , Adams William J.
Published: June 2020

Multiple linear regression (MLR) models for predicting chronic aluminum toxicity to a cladoceran (Ceriodaphnia dubia) and a fish (Pimephales promelas) as a function of 3 toxicity-modifying factors (TMFs)—dissolved organic carbon (DOC), pH, and hardness—have been published previously. However, the range over which data for these TMFs were available was somewhat limited. To address this limitation, additional chronic toxicity tests with these species were subsequently conducted to expand the DOC range up to 12 mg/L, the pH range up to 8.7, and the hardness range up to 428 mg/L. The additional toxicity data were used to update the chronic MLR models. The adjusted R2 for the C. dubia 20% effect concentration (EC20) model increased from 0.71 to 0.92 with the additional toxicity data, and the predicted R2 increased from 0.57 to 0.89. For P. promelas, the adjusted R2 increased from 0.87 to 0.92 and the predicted R2 increased from 0.72 to 0.87. The high predicted R2 relative to the adjusted R2 indicates that the models for both species are not overly parameterized. When data for C. dubia and P. promelas were pooled, the adjusted R2 values were comparable to the species-specific models (0.90 and 0.88 for C. dubia and P. promelas, respectively). This indicates that chronic aluminum EC20s for C. dubia and P. promelas respond similarly to variation in DOC, pH, and hardness. Overall, the pooled model predicted EC20s that were within a factor of 2 of observed in 100% of the C. dubia tests and 94% of the P. promelas tests. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1724–1736. © 2020 SETAC
Fishing for Food: Quantifying Recreational Fisheries Harvest in Wisconsin Lakes
Authors: Embke Holly S , Douglas Beard T. , Lynch Abigail J , Vander Zanden M Jake
Published: June 2020

Recreational fisheries have high economic worth, valued at US$190 billion globally. An important, but underappreciated, secondary value of recreational catch is its role as a source of food. This contribution is poorly understood due to difficulty in estimating recreational harvest at spatial scales beyond a single system, as traditionally estimated from individual creel surveys. Here, we address this gap using 28-year creel surveys of ~300 Wisconsin inland lakes. We develop a statistical model of recreational harvest for individual lakes and then scale-up to unsurveyed lakes (3,769 lakes; 73% of statewide lake surface area). We generate a statewide estimate of recreational lake harvest of ~4,200 metric tons and an estimated annual angler consumption rate of ~1.1 kg, nearly equal to the total estimated United States per capita freshwater fish consumption. An important ecosystem service, recreational harvest makes significant contributions to human diets and plays an often-unheralded role in food security.
Determination of free amino acids, organic acids, and nucleotides in 29 elegant spices
Authors: Duan Wen , Huang Yan , Xiao Junfei , Zhang Yuyu , Tang Yizhuang
Published: June 2020

Spices can be used in cooking to enhance the flavor of food. In order to systematically summarize and discuss the flavor components of 29 elegant spices, the free amino acids, nucleotides, and organic acids in these spices were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Cluster analysis was carried out to classify the 29 elegant spices based on similar data. The results showed considerable variations in the total free amino acids (1.12‒31.59 g/kg), organic acids (9.63‒71.90 g/kg), and nucleotides (0.03‒2.72 g/kg) in the elegant spices. Nine of the amino acids, especially glutamic acid and arginine, were found to have a taste active value (TAV) greater than 1. The TAVs of the 5′‐nucleotides, succinic acid, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, and ascorbic acid were all >1. The equivalent umami concentration (EUC) of sweet marjoram was 83.69 g MSG/100 g. The 29 elegant spices were divided into two categories according to cluster analysis of the EUC. Oregano fell into one category, and the remaining 28 spices fell into the other category.
Neuroimaging studies within Cognitive Genetics Collaborative Research Organization aiming to replicate and extend works of ENIGMA
Authors: Koshiyama Daisuke , Miura Kenichiro , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Okada Naohiro , Matsumoto Junya , Fukunaga Masaki , Hashimoto Ryota
Published: June 2020

Reproducibility is one of the most important issues for generalizing the results of clinical research; however, low reproducibility in neuroimaging studies is well known. To overcome this problem, the Enhancing Neuroimaging Genetics through Meta‐Analysis (ENIGMA) consortium, an international neuroimaging consortium, established standard protocols for imaging analysis and employs either meta‐ and mega‐analyses of psychiatric disorders with large sample sizes. The Cognitive Genetics Collaborative Research Organization (COCORO) in Japan promotes neurobiological studies in psychiatry and has successfully replicated and extended works of ENIGMA especially for neuroimaging studies. For example, (a) the ENIGMA consortium showed subcortical regional volume alterations in patients with schizophrenia (n = 2,028) compared to controls (n = 2,540) across 15 cohorts using meta‐analysis. COCORO replicated the volumetric changes in patients with schizophrenia (n = 884) compared to controls (n = 1,680) using the ENIGMA imaging analysis protocol and mega‐analysis. Furthermore, a schizophrenia‐specific leftward asymmetry for the pallidum volume was demonstrated; and (b) the ENIGMA consortium identified white matter microstructural alterations in patients with schizophrenia (n = 1,963) compared to controls (n = 2,359) across 29 cohorts. Using the ENIGMA protocol, a study from COCORO showed similar results in patients with schizophrenia (n = 696) compared to controls (n = 1,506) from 12 sites using mega‐analysis. Moreover, the COCORO study found that schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (n = 211) and autism spectrum disorder (n = 126), but not major depressive disorder (n = 398), share similar white matter microstructural alterations, compared to controls. Further replication and harmonization of the ENIGMA consortium and COCORO will contribute to the generalization of their research findings.