bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biphasic Regulation of Mesenchymal Genes Controls Fate Switches During Hematopoietic Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Hongtao , Wang Mengge , Wen Yuqi , Xu Changlu , Chen Xiaoyuan , Wu Dan , Su Pei , Zhou Wen , Cheng Tao , Shi Lihong , Zhou Jiaxi
Published: August 2020

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) or its reverse process mesenchymal‐epithelial transition (MET) occurs in multiple physiological and pathological processes. However, whether an entire EMT–MET process exists and the potential function during human hematopoiesis remain largely elusive. Utilizing human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)‐based systems, it is discovered that while EMT occurs at the onset of human hematopoietic differentiation, MET is not detected subsequently during differentiation. Instead, a biphasic activation of mesenchymal genes during hematopoietic differentiation of hPSCs is observed. The expression of mesenchymal genes is upregulated during the fate switch from pluripotency to the mesoderm, sustained at the hemogenic endothelium (HE) stage, and attenuated during hemogenic endothelial cell (HEP) differentiation to hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs). A similar expression pattern of mesenchymal genes is also observed during human and murine hematopoietic development in vivo. Wnt signaling and its downstream gene SNAI1 mediate the up‐regulation of mesenchymal genes and initiation of mesoderm induction from pluripotency. Inhibition of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling and downregulation of HAND1, a downstream gene of TGF‐β, are required for the downregulation of mesenchymal genes and the capacity of HEPs to generate HPCs. These results suggest that the biphasic regulation of mesenchymal genes is an essential mechanism during human hematopoiesis.
Nanoemulsion‐Loaded Capsules for Controlled Delivery of Lipophilic Active Ingredients
Authors: Chen Liang‐Hsun , Cheng Li‐Chiun , Doyle Patrick S.
Published: August 2020

Nanoemulsions have become ideal candidates for loading hydrophobic active ingredients and enhancing their bioavailability in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. However, the lack of versatile carrier platforms for nanoemulsions hinders advanced control over their release behavior. In this work, a method is developed to encapsulate nanoemulsions in alginate capsules for the controlled delivery of lipophilic active ingredients. Functional nanoemulsions loaded with active ingredients and calcium ions are first prepared, followed by encapsulation inside alginate shells. The intrinsically high viscosity of the nanoemulsions ensures the formation of spherical capsules and high encapsulation efficiency during the synthesis. Moreover, a facile approach is developed to measure the nanoemulsion release profile from capsules through UV–vis measurement without an additional extraction step. A quantitative analysis of the release profiles shows that the capsule systems possess a tunable, delayed‐burst release. The encapsulation methodology is generalized to other active ingredients, oil phases, nanodroplet sizes, and chemically crosslinked inner hydrogel cores. Overall, the capsule systems provide promising platforms for various functional nanoemulsion formulations.
2D Semiconductor Transistors with Van der Waals Oxide MoO3 as Integrated High‐κ Gate Dielectric
Authors: Holler Brian A. , Crowley Kyle , Berger Marie‐Hélène , Gao Xuan P. A.
Published: August 2020

The search for smaller electronic and optoelectronic devices is a leading research towards atomically thin graphene‐like 2D semiconductor materials. Due to the decreasing size and unique van der Waals (vdW) nature of these 2D semiconductors, there is an imperative need to find compatible gate dielectrics that can enable high gate coupling efficiency and seamless integration with these materials. One possible approach is to identify and utilize 2D vdW oxides with high dielectric constants, κ, similar to the integration of high‐κ dielectrics HfO2 and ZrO2. To this end, MoO3 is an attractive transition metal oxide candidate for gate dielectrics in 2D field effect transistors (FETs) due to its vdW structure in addition to its high dielectric constant measured in the bulk. This study demonstrates that as‐grown MoO3 has a high dielectric constant, κ, of ≈35 at room temperature at low frequencies by fabricating parallel plate capacitors from these thin flakes. Most importantly, mechanically exfoliated MoO3 nanoflakes are used to create heterostructures with WSe2 and a top‐gate WSe2/MoO3 heterostructure FET is demonstrated, showing the potential of MoO3 as a promising high‐κ 2D vdW gate dielectric.
The Effect of Teaching Nontechnical Skills in Advanced Life Support: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dewolf Philippe , Clarebout Geraldine , Wauters Lina , Van Kerkhoven Joke , Verelst Sandra
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of nontechnical skills (NTS) training on performance in advanced life support (ALS) simulation. Furthermore, we aimed to determine the ideal frequency of training sessions for an optimal retention and the value of debriefing.

Methods

A systematic search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, WoS, ERIC, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library conducted through August 1, 2018. All primary studies mentioning NTS in ALS education were included. Three reviewers independently extracted data on study design and outcome. The MERSQI approach was used to evaluate the overall quality of evidence.

Results

Of the 10,723 identified articles, 40 studies were included with a combined total of 3,041 participants, ranging from students to experts. Depending on the focus of the study, articles were categorized in NTS (n = 25), retention (n = 8), and feedback (n = 10). Incorporating NTS during ALS simulation showed significant improvements in timing for performing critical first steps. Furthermore, good leadership skills had a favorable effect on overall technical performance and teamwork during simulation improved team dynamics and performance. Finally, debriefing also had a beneficial effect on team performance. One particular type of debriefing does not appear to be superior to other types of debriefing.

Conclusion

Team simulation training resulted in improved NTS and a reduction in the time required to complete a simulated cardiac arrest. Therefore, a formal NTS program should be introduced into ALS courses. Feedback and repetitive practice are key factors to train NTS. The impact of training on team behaviors can persist for at least 3 to 6 months. In conclusion, understanding and improving NTS may help to create more effective teams. The effect on patient outcome requires further investigation.
Patient with an autosomal‐recessive MBTPS1‐linked phenotype and clinical features of Silver–Russell syndrome
Authors: Meyer Robert , Elbracht Miriam , Opladen Thomas , Eggermann Thomas
Published: August 2020

Pathogenic variants in the MBTPS1 gene encoding the Site 1 protease have been described so far only in one growth retarded patients with skeletal deformities, large ears, a triangular face reminiscent to Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS), and elevated blood lysosomal enzymes. We now report on the identification of a second adult patient homozygous for one of the two published pathogenic MBTPS1 variants (p.Asp365Gly) by Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), and a comparable phenotype. With this case, the association of pathogenic variants in MBTPS1 with a recognizable disorder could be confirmed, and the autosomal recessive inheritance is further established. As the variant was identified after a long diagnostic odyssey of the family, this example illustrates the need to apply WES in the diagnostic workup in case of growth retardation as early as possible. By compiling the clinical data of this new patient with those of the already reported patient, a better prognosis for future patients with MBTPS1 variants can be issued, and clinical management can be adjusted.
Epigenome‐wide analysis uncovers a blood‐based DNA methylation biomarker of lifetime cannabis use
Authors: Markunas Christina A. , Hancock Dana B. , Xu Zongli , Quach Bryan C. , Fang Fang , Sandler Dale P. , Johnson Eric O. , Taylor Jack A.
Published: August 2020

Cannabis use is highly prevalent and is associated with adverse and beneficial effects. To better understand the full spectrum of health consequences, biomarkers that accurately classify cannabis use are needed. DNA methylation (DNAm) is an excellent candidate, yet no blood‐based epigenome‐wide association studies (EWAS) in humans exist. We conducted an EWAS of lifetime cannabis use (ever vs. never) using blood‐based DNAm data from a case–cohort study within Sister Study, a prospective cohort of women at risk of developing breast cancer (Discovery N = 1,730 [855 ever users]; Replication N = 853 [392 ever users]). We identified and replicated an association with lifetime cannabis use at cg15973234 (CEMIP): combined p = 3.3 × 10−8. We found no overlap between published blood‐based cis‐meQTLs of cg15973234 and reported lifetime cannabis use‐associated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs; p < .05), suggesting that the observed DNAm difference was driven by cannabis exposure. We also developed a multi‐CpG classifier of lifetime cannabis use using penalized regression of top EWAS CpGs. The resulting 50‐CpG classifier produced an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.74 (95% CI [0.72, 0.76], p = 2.00 × 10−5) in the discovery sample and AUC = 0.54 ([0.51, 0.57], p = 2.87 × 10−2) in the replication sample. Our EWAS findings provide evidence that blood‐based DNAm is associated with lifetime cannabis use.
The turn to controls and the refinement of the concept of hereditary burden: The 1895 study of Jenny Koller
Authors: Kendler Kenneth S. , Klee Astrid
Published: August 2020

Throughout the 19th century, many alienists reported the proportion of their patients who were “hereditarily burdened,” meaning they had a positive family history for mental illness. The rates of such burden differed widely because different authors used divergent definition of illness and investigated different groups of relatives. Most importantly, no authors compared rates of burden with those seen in a nonpatient control group. The first such study in the history of psychiatric genetics was published in 1895, the doctoral dissertation of a Swiss physician Jenny Koller working under Auguste Forel. She obtained histories of a range of mental/neurologic disorders in the parents, aunts/uncles, grandparents and siblings of 370 hospitalized psychiatric patients and 370 controls. Rates of any hereditary burden were only modestly higher in cases (78%) than controls (59%). However, when examining individual syndromes, only major mental illness and eccentricities, but not apoplexy, nervous disorders or dementia, were more common in proband than control families. Furthermore, the rates of mental illness and eccentricities were substantially elevated in the first‐degree relatives of cases versus controls but not in the second‐degree relatives. Koller's study represented a major methodological advance in psychiatric genetics, helping to define which disorders coaggregated with major mental illness.
Distribution of maternal lineages in hunter‐gatherer societies of the southern coast of Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Authors: Crespo Cristian M. , Cardozo Darío G. , Tessone Augusto , Vázquez Martín , Kisielinski Caroline , Arencibia Valeria , Tackney Justin , Zangrando A. Francisco , Dejean Cristina B.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim of this work is to explore the maternal genetic diversity of hunter‐gatherers of the southern Tierra del Fuego, specifically the north coast of Beagle Channel, the Península Mitre, and Isla de los Estados through ancient mitochondrial DNA analysis.

Materials and Methods

The hypervariable regions 1 and 2 of the mitochondrial genome of five individuals from the north coast of Beagle Channel, six individuals from Península Mitre, and one individual from Isla de los Estados were analyzed. Through diversity statistics, Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA), and Median Joining networks analyses, maternal relationships in the region were evaluated and phylogenetic similarities between ancient and contemporary populations of Tierra del Fuego were determined.

Results

The mitochondrial DNA lineages from the ancient individuals analyzed reveals the presence of subclades C1b and D1g. Pattern of decreasing genetic diversity toward the South is observed. The AMOVAs performed found no statistically significant differences between individuals of the north coast of Beagle Channel and Península Mitre‐Isla de los Estados, and modern Yámana populations. Median joining network of haplotypes of clades C1 and D1g, show the same results.

Discussion

Ethnohistoric and ethnographic records of Península Mitre show that this region was occupied during the 19th century by Haush or Manekenk populations, although their biological, cultural, and subsistence characterization is unclear. We explore their maternal lineages and encounter low levels of genetic diversity and the absence of population differentiation with modern Yámana groups. We suggest that Península Mitre‐Isla de los Estado was part of the same hunting and gathering populations as those of the Beagle Channel.
Sahelian pastoralism from the perspective of variants associated with lactase persistence
Authors: Priehodová Edita , Austerlitz Frédéric , Čížková Martina , Nováčková Jana , Ricaut François‐Xavier , Hofmanová Zuzana , Schlebusch Carina M. , Černý Viktor
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Archeological evidence shows that first nomadic pastoralists came to the African Sahel from northeastern Sahara, where milking is reported by ~7.5 ka. A second wave of pastoralists arrived with the expansion of Arabic tribes in 7th–14th century CE. All Sahelian pastoralists depend on milk production but genetic diversity underlying their lactase persistence (LP) is poorly understood.

Materials and methods

We investigated SNP variants associated with LP in 1,241 individuals from 29 mostly pastoralist populations in the Sahel. Then, we analyzed six SNPs in the neighboring fragment (419 kb) in the Fulani and Tuareg with the −13910*T mutation, reconstructed haplotypes, and calculated expansion age and growth rate of this variant.

Results

Our results reveal a geographic localization of two different LP variants in the Sahel: −13910*T west of Lake Chad (Fulani and Tuareg pastoralists) and −13915*G east of there (mostly Arabic‐speaking pastoralists). We show that −13910*T has a more diversified haplotype background among the Fulani than among the Tuareg and that the age estimate for expansion of this variant among the Fulani (~8.5 ka) corresponds to introduction of cattle to the area.

Conclusions

This is the first study showing that the “Eurasian” LP allele −13910*T is widespread both in northern Europe and in the Sahel; however, it is limited to pastoralists in the Sahel. Since the Fulani haplotype with −13910*T is shared with contemporary Eurasians, its origin could be in a region encompassing the Near East and northeastern Africa in a population ancestral to both Saharan pastoralists and European farmers.
The ontogeny of termite gathering among chimpanzees in the Goualougo Triangle, Republic of Congo
Authors: Musgrave Stephanie , Lonsdorf Elizabeth , Morgan David , Sanz Crickette
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Acquiring tool‐assisted foraging skills can potentially improve dietary quality and increase fitness for wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). In contrast to chimpanzees in East and West Africa, chimpanzees in the Congo Basin use tool sets and brush‐tipped fishing probes to gather termites. We investigated the ontogeny of these tool skills in chimpanzees of the Goualougo Triangle, Republic of Congo, and compared it to that for chimpanzees at Gombe, Tanzania. We assessed whether chimpanzees acquired simple tool behaviors and single tool use before more complex actions and sequential use of multiple tool types.

Materials and Methods

Using a longitudinal approach, we scored remote video footage to document the acquisition of termite‐gathering critical elements for 25 immature chimpanzees at Goualougo.

Results

All chimpanzees termite fished by 2.9 years but did not manufacture brush‐tipped probes until an average of 4.3 years. Acquisition of sequential tool use extended into juvenility and adolescence. While we did not detect significant sex differences, most critical elements except tool manufacture were acquired slightly earlier by females.

Discussion

These findings contrast with Gombe, where chimpanzees learn to both use and make fishing probes between ages 1.5–3.5 and acquire the complete task by age 5.5. Differences between sites could reflect tool material selectivity and design complexity, the challenge of sequential tool behaviors, and strength requirements of puncturing subterranean termite nests at Goualougo. These results illustrate how task complexity may influence the timing and sequence of skill acquisition, improving models of the ontogeny of tool behavior among early hominins who likely used complex, perishable technologies.
APOE and dementia – resequencing and genotyping in 105,597 individuals
Authors: Rasmussen Katrine L. , Tybjærg‐Hansen Anne , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Frikke‐Schmidt Ruth
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The mechanism behind the strong association between the ɛ2/ɛ3/ɛ4 apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) polymorphism and Alzheimer's disease is not well‐characterized. Because low plasma levels of apoE associate with risk of dementia, genetic variants altering apoE levels in general may also associate with dementia.

Methods

The APOE gene was sequenced in 10,369 individuals, and nine amino acid–changing variants with frequencies ≥2/10,000 were further genotyped in 95,228 individuals. Plasma apoE levels were measured directly.

Results

Risk of all dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) increased with decreasing genetically determined apoE levels (P = 5 × 10−4 and P = 1 × 10−4 after APOE ɛ2/ɛ3/ɛ4 adjustment). Hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for all dementia and AD were 2.76 (1.39 to 5.47) and 4.92 (2.36 to 10.29) for the group with the genetically lowest apoE versus ɛ33.

Discussion

We found that genetically low apoE levels increase and genetically high levels decrease risk, beyond ɛ2/ɛ3/ɛ4. This underscores that dementia risk more likely relates to variants affecting levels of apoE.
PIK3R2/Pik3r2 Activating Mutations Result in Brain Overgrowth and EEG Changes
Authors: Shi Xiuyu , Lim Youngshin , Myers Abigail K. , Stallings Brenna L. , Mccoy Almedia , Zeiger Jordan , Scheck Joshua , Cho Ginam , Marsh Eric D. , Mirzaa Ghayda M. , Tao Tao , Golden Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Mutations in phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate 3‐kinase (PI3K) complex have been associated with a broad spectrum of brain and organ overgrowth syndromes. For example, mutations in phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase regulatory subunit 2 (PIK3R2) have been identified in human patients with megalencephaly polymicrogyria polydactyly hydrocephalus (MPPH) syndrome, which includes brain overgrowth. To better understand the pathogenesis of PIK3R2‐related mutations, we have developed and characterized a murine model.

Methods

We generated a knock‐in mouse model for the most common human PIK3R2 mutation, p.G373R (p.G367R in mice) using CRISPR/Cas9. The mouse phenotypes, including brain size, seizure activity, cortical lamination, cell proliferation/size/density, interneuron migration, and PI3K pathway activation, were analyzed using standard methodologies. For human patients with PIK3R2 mutations, clinical data (occipitofrontal circumference [OFC] and epilepsy) were retrospectively obtained from our clinical records (published / unpublished).

Results

The PI3K‐AKT pathway was hyperactivated in these mice, confirming the p.G367R mutation is an activating mutation in vivo. Similar to human patients with PIK3R2 mutations, these mice have enlarged brains. We found cell size to be increased but not cell numbers. The embryonic brain showed mild defects in cortical lamination, although not observed in the mature brain. Furthermore, electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings from mutant mice showed background slowing and rare seizures, again similar to our observations in human patients.

Interpretation

We have generated a PIK3R2 mouse model that exhibits megalencephaly and EEG changes, both of which overlap with human patients. Our data provide novel insight into the pathogenesis of the human disease caused by PIK3R2 p.G373R mutation. We anticipate this model will be valuable in testing therapeutic options for human patients with MPPH. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:1077–1094
Exotic Compositional Ordering in Manganese–Nickel–Arsenic (Mn‐Ni‐As) Intermetallics
Authors: Gonano Bruno , Fjellvåg Øystein Slagtern , Steciuk Gwladys , Saha Dipankar , Pelloquin Denis , Fjellvåg Helmer
Published: August 2020

In this work we benefited from recent advances in tools for crystal‐structure analysis that enabled us to describe an exotic nanoscale phenomenon in structural chemistry. The Mn0.60Ni0.40As sample of the Mn1−xNixAs solid solution, exhibits an incommensurate compositional modulation intimately coupled with positional modulations. The average structure is of the simple NiAs type, but in contrast to a normal solid solution, we observe that manganese and nickel segregate periodically at the nano‐level into ordered MnAs and NiAs layers with thickness of 2–4 face‐shared octahedra. The detailed description was obtained by combination of 3D electron diffraction, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and neutron diffraction. The distribution of the manganese and nickel layers is perfectly described by a modulation vector q=0.360(3) c*. Displacive modulations are observed for all elements as a consequence of the occupational modulation, and as a means to achieve acceptable Ni–As and Mn–As distances. This modulated evolution of magnetic MnAs and non‐magnetic NiAs‐layers with periodicity at approximately 10 Å level, may provide an avenue for spintronics.
On the Use of Differential Scanning Calorimetry for Thermal Hazard Assessment of New Chemistry: Avoiding Explosive Mistakes
Authors: Green Sebastian P. , Wheelhouse Katherine M. , Payne Andrew D. , Hallett Jason P. , Miller Philip W. , Bull James A.
Published: August 2020

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is increasingly used as evidence to support a favourable safety profile of novel chemistry, or to highlight the need for caution. DSC enables preliminary assessment of the thermal hazards of a potentially energetic compound. However, unlike other standard characterisation methods, which have well defined formats for reporting data, the current reporting of DSC results for thermal hazard assessment has shown concerning trends. Around half of all results in 2019 did not include experimental details required to replicate the procedure. Furthermore, analysis for thermal hazard assessment is often only conducted in unsealed crucibles, which could lead to misleading results and dangerously incorrect conclusions. We highlight the specific issues with DSC analysis of hazardous compounds currently in the organic chemistry literature and provide simple “best practice” guidelines which will give chemists confidence in reported DSC results and the conclusions drawn from them.
An α‐Cyclopropanation of Carbonyl Derivatives by Oxidative Umpolung
Authors: Bauer Adriano , Di Mauro Giovanni , Li Jing , Maulide Nuno
Published: August 2020

The reactivity of iodine(III) reagents towards nucleophiles is often associated with umpolung and cationic mechanisms. Herein, we report a general process converting a range of ketone derivatives into α‐cyclopropanated ketones by oxidative umpolung. Mechanistic investigation and careful characterization of side products revealed that the reaction follows an unexpected pathway and suggests the intermediacy of non‐classical carbocations.
Catalytic Enantioselective [2+2] Cycloaddition of α‐Halo Acroleins: Construction of Cyclobutanes Containing Two Tetrasubstituted Stereocenters
Authors: Zeng Lei , Xu Jingjing , Zhang Dongsheng , Yan Zhongliang , Cheng Guolin , Rao Weidong , Gao Lizhu
Published: August 2020

A catalytic enantioselective formal [2+2] cycloaddition between α‐halo acroleins and electronically diverse arylalkenes is described. In the presence of (S)‐oxazaborolidinium cation as the catalyst, densely functionalized cyclobutanes containing two vicinal tetrasubstituted stereocenters were produced in high yields and high diastereoselectivities with excellent enantioselectivities. Mechanistic studies revealed that the cis isomer could be transformed into the trans isomer via an enantiocontrolled process. A gram‐scale reaction of this catalytic method was used to demonstrate its synthetic potential.
General Principles for the Design of Visible‐Light‐Responsive Photoswitches: Tetra‐ortho‐Chloro‐Azobenzenes
Authors: Lameijer Lucien N. , Budzak Simon , Simeth Nadja A. , Hansen Mickel J. , Feringa Ben L. , Jacquemin Denis , Szymanski Wiktor
Published: August 2020

Molecular photoswitches enable reversible external control of biological systems, nanomachines, and smart materials. Their development is driven by the need for low energy (green‐red‐NIR) light switching, to allow non‐invasive operation with deep tissue penetration. The lack of clear design principles for the adaptation and optimization of such systems limits further applications. Here we provide a design rulebook for tetra‐ortho‐chloroazobenzenes, an emerging class of visible‐light‐responsive photochromes, by elucidating the role that substituents play in defining their key characteristics: absorption spectra, band overlap, photoswitching efficiencies, and half‐lives of the unstable cis isomers. This is achieved through joint photochemical and theoretical analyses of a representative library of molecules featuring substituents of varying electronic nature. A set of guidelines is presented that enables tuning of properties to the desired application through informed photochrome engineering.
Fullerenes as Key Components for Low‐Dimensional (Photo)electrocatalytic Nanohybrid Materials
Authors: Puente Santiago Alain R. , Fernandez‐Delgado Olivia , Gomez Ashley , Ahsan Md Ariful , Echegoyen Luis
Published: August 2020

An emerging class of heterostructures with unprecedented (photo)electrocatalytic behavior, involving the combination of fullerenes and low‐dimensional (LD) nanohybrids, is currently expanding the field of energy materials. The unique physical and chemical properties of fullerenes have offered new opportunities to tailor both the electronic structures and the catalytic activities of the nanohybrid structures. Here, we comprehensively review the synthetic approaches to prepare fullerene‐based hybrids with LD (0D, 1D, and 2D) materials in addition to their resulting structural and catalytic properties. Recent advances in the design of fullerene‐based LD nanomaterials for (photo)electrocatalytic applications are emphasized. The fundamental relationship between the electronic structures and the catalytic functions of the heterostructures, including the role of the fullerenes, is addressed to provide an in‐depth understanding of these emerging materials at the molecular level.
Anisotropic Protein Organofibers Encoded With Extraordinary Mechanical Behavior for Cellular Mechanobiology Applications
Authors: Ma Chao , Li Bo , Shao Baiqi , Wu Baiheng , Chen Dong , Su Juanjuan , Zhang Hongjie , Liu Kai
Published: August 2020

Hydrogels enable a variety of applications due to their dynamic networks, structural flexibility, and tailorable functionality. However, their mechanical performances are limited, specifically in the context of cellular mechanobiology. It is also difficult to fabricate robust gel networks with a long‐term durability. Thus, a new generation of soft materials showing outstanding mechanical behavior for mechanobiology applications is highly desirable. We combined synthetic biology and supramolecular assembly to prepare elastin‐like protein (ELP) organogel fibers with extraordinary mechanical properties. The mechanical performance and stability of the assembled anisotropic proteins are superior to other organo‐/hydrogel systems. Bone‐derived mesenchymal cells were introduced into the organofiber system for stem‐cell lineage differentiation. This approach demonstrates the feasibility of mechanically strong and anisotropic organonetworks for mechanobiology applications and holds great potential for tissue‐regeneration translations.
Anion Solvation Reconfiguration Enables High‐Voltage Carbonate Electrolytes for Stable Zn/Graphite Cells
Authors: Chen Zheng , Tang Yue , Du Xiaofan , Chen Bingbing , Lu Guoli , Han Xiaoqi , Zhang Yaojian , Yang Wuhai , Han Pengxian , Zhao Jingwen , Cui Guanglei
Published: August 2020

Conventional carbonate solvents with low HOMO levels are theoretically compatible with the low‐cost, high‐voltage chemistry of Zn/graphite batteries. However, the nucleophilic attack of the anion on carbonates induces an oxidative breakdown at high potentials. Here, we restore the inherent anodic stability of carbonate electrolytes by designing a micro‐heterogeneous anion solvation network. Based on the addition of a strongly electron‐donating solvent, trimethyl phosphate (TMP), the oxidation‐vulnerable anion‐carbonate affinities are decoupled because of the preferential sequestration of anions into solvating TMP domains around the metal cations. The hybridized electrolytes elevate the electrochemical window of carbonate electrolytes by 0.45 V and enable the operation of Zn/graphite dual‐ion cells at 2.80 V with a long cycle life (92 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles). By inheriting the non‐flammability from TMP and the high ion‐transport kinetics from the carbonate systems, this facile strategy provides cells with the additional benefits of fire retardancy and high‐power capability.
Sonocrystallization of a Palm‐Based Fat with Low Level of Saturation in a Scraped Surface Heat Exchanger
Authors: da Silva Thais Lomonaco Teodoro , Martini Silvana
Published: August 2020

Physical properties of fats are affected by the reduction of saturated fatty acids. One method for retaining desired properties is the use of high‐intensity ultrasound (HIU). The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of HIU power levels, pulse time, and position on the physical properties of a low‐saturated palm‐based fat crystallized in a scraped surface heat exchanger (SSHE). The sample was crystallized in a SSHE at 26 °C, using a 11 L hour−1 flow rate, and agitation of 344 rpm in the barrels and 208 rpm in the pin worker. HIU was applied using a 12.7 mm tip coupled to a water jacketed (26 °C) flow cell that was placed at the end of the SSHE process. Sonication conditions were 20%, 50%, or 80% amplitude using pulses (5 and 10 s) or continuous sonication. After choosing the best HIU condition, the position of the flow cell was changed to different positions within the SSHE: before the first barrel (HIU‐0), between the two barrels (HIU‐1), between the second barrel and the pin worker (HIU‐2), and after the pin worker (HIU‐3). The best sonication condition from the first set of experiments was when HIU was applied using 50% amplitude and 10 s pulses. This condition resulted in higher oil binding capacity (OBC) and storage modulus (G') compared to the non‐sonicated sample (OBC: 77% against 69.5%; G':154 kPa against 108 kPa). The best HIU position was HIU‐3 since no further agitation was applied. The lack of agitation after sonication induced secondary nucleation and generated a strong crystalline network.
A New Green Method for the Production Polyvinylchloride Plasticizers from Fatty Acid Methyl Esters of Vegetable Oils
Authors: Cherepanova Anna , Savel'ev Evgeniy , Alieva Leila , Kuznetsova Irina , Sapunov Valentin
Published: August 2020

The current work has shown the potentials for the aerobic oxidation of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) of vegetable oils in the production of polyvinylchloride (PVC) plasticizers with the exclusion of other reagents. The reaction mixtures contain epoxidized derivatives of FAME, and esters, with the quantity of the ester groups being higher than in the initial raw material. It was established that the increase in the additional ester groups resulting from the “aerobic” Baeyer‐Villiger (BV) reaction has a significantly positive influence on the plasticizing ability of the oxidized FAME mixtures for PVC when compared to the formation of epoxide compounds. The development of the technology for the production of PVC plasticizers proposed in this investigation provides an opportunity for resolving some of the environmental issues normally associated with the use of phthalate‐based plasticizers.
Representation of Women as Authors of Rheumatology Research Articles
Authors: Bagga Ekta , Stewart Sarah , Gamble Gregory D. , Hill Janine , Grey Andrew , Dalbeth Nicola
Published: August 2020

Objective

In academic medicine, journal article authorship is central to career advancement and promotion. This study aimed to examine the contemporary representation of women as first and senior authors of rheumatology original research articles.

Methods

The gender of the first and senior author, disease category, research design, and funding source were extracted from rheumatology original research articles published in high‐impact rheumatology and general medical journals between 2015 and 2019.

Results

The analysis included 7,651 original research articles. In total, 51.5% of the articles had women first authors (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 50.4–52.6%) and 35.3% had women senior authors (95% CI 34.2–36.4%). Women were significantly less likely to be first and senior authors of articles reporting randomized controlled trials compared with other clinical research designs (P < 0.001), and of articles reporting industry‐funded/industry‐initiated studies compared with studies not funded by industry (P ≤ 0.01). Of the articles reporting industry‐funded/industry‐initiated randomized controlled trials, women were first authors in 18.5% (95% CI 13.8–24.0%) and senior authors in 23.9% (95% CI 18.6–29.8%).

Conclusion

In rheumatology research articles, there is gender parity for first authorship, but women are underrepresented in senior authorship positions. Underrepresentation of women in authorship is particularly apparent in articles reporting randomized controlled trials, and especially those that are initiated by industry.
Do new research issues attract more citations? A comparison between 25 Scopus subject categories
Authors: Thelwall Mike , Sud Pardeep
Published: August 2020

Finding new ways to help researchers and administrators understand academic fields is an important task for information scientists. Given the importance of interdisciplinary research, it is essential to be aware of disciplinary differences in aspects of scholarship, such as the significance of recent changes in a field. This paper identifies potential changes in 25 subject categories through a term comparison of words in article titles, keywords and abstracts in 1 year compared to the previous 4 years. The scholarly influence of new research issues is indirectly assessed with a citation analysis of articles matching each trending term. While topic‐related words dominate the top terms, style, national focus, and language changes are also evident. Thus, as reflected in Scopus, fields evolve along multiple dimensions. Moreover, while articles exploiting new issues are usually more cited in some fields, such as Organic Chemistry, they are usually less cited in others, including History. The possible causes of new issues being less cited include externally driven temporary factors, such as disease outbreaks, and internally driven temporary decisions, such as a deliberate emphasis on a single topic (e.g., through a journal special issue).
Metal Nanoparticles‐Enhanced Biosensors: Synthesis, Design and Applications in Fluorescence Enhancement and Surface‐enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Yaraki Mohammad Tavakkoli , Tan Yen Nee
Published: August 2020

Metal nanoparticles (NP) that exhibit localized surface plasmon resonance play an important role in metal‐enhanced fluorescence (MEF) and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Among the optical biosensors, MEF and SERS stand out to be the most sensitive techniques to detect a wide range of analytes from ions, biomolecules to macromolecules and microorganisms. Particularly, anisotropic metal NPs with strongly enhanced electric field at their sharp corners/edges under a wide range of excitation wavelengths are highly suitable for developing the ultrasensitive plasmon‐enhanced biosensors. In this review, we first highlight the reliable methods for the synthesis of anisotropic gold NPs and silver NPs in high yield, as well as their alloys and composites with good control of size and shape. It is followed by the discussion of different sensing mechanisms and recent advances in the MEF and SERS biosensor designs. This includes the review of surface functionalization, bioconjugation and (directed/self) assembly methods as well as the selection/screening of specific biorecognition elements such as aptamers or antibodies for the highly selective bio‐detection. The right combinations of metal nanoparticles, biorecognition element and assay design will lead to the successful development of MEF and SERS biosensors targeting different analytes both in‐vitro and in‐vivo. Finally, the prospects and challenges of metal‐enhanced biosensors for future nanomedicine in achieving ultrasensitive and fast medical diagnostics, high‐throughput drug discovery as well as effective and reliable theranostic treatment are discussed.
Electrolytes for Lithium‐ and Sodium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Xu Chenxuan , Yang Yulu , Wang Huaping , Xu Biyi , Li Yutao , Tan Rou , Duan Xiaochuan , Wu Daxiong , Zhuo Ming , Ma Jianmin
Published: August 2020

High‐energy‐density batteries have attracted significant attention due to the huge demand in electric transportation in future. Metal‐based batteries, especially lithium metal batteries (LMBs) and sodium metal batteries (SMBs), have been hot research topics nowadays. The uncontrolled growth of metal dendrites has retarded the development of LMBs and SMBs. Various electrolytes have been explored to meet the demand of high‐performance metal‐based batteries, such as additives‐contained electrolytes, polymer electrolytes, and solid‐state electrolytes. To guide the development of electrolytes in LMBs and SMBs, we organize this roadmap to give out the status of present research and future challenges in this field. We also hope that the readers can get the knowledge and ideas from this roadmap.
In vitro and in silico anticancer evaluation of a medicinal mushroom, Ganoderma neo‐japonicum Imazeki, against human colonic carcinoma cells
Authors: Lau Meng‐Fei , Chua Kek‐Heng , Sabaratnam Vikineswary , Kuppusamy Umah Rani
Published: August 2020

Ganoderma neo‐japonicum is a well‐known medicinal mushroom in Asian countries. However, scientific validations on its curative activities are confined to cirrhosis and diabetes. In this study, the anticancer properties of G. neo‐japonicum were evaluated using cellular and computational models. The ethanolic extract (EtOH) with a promising inhibitory effect was fractionated into four different fractions: hexane (Hex), chloroform (Chl), butanol (Btn), and aqueous (Aq). The active fractions were then subjected to cell apoptosis assessment and phytochemical profiling. Molecular docking was conducted to elucidate the affinity of selected constituents towards antiapoptotic Bcl‐2 protein. The butanol fraction showed the highest antioxidant activities as well as total phenolic content. Both hexane and chloroform fractions exerted a potent cytotoxic effect on colonic carcinoma cells through the induction of apoptosis. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the chloroform fraction is terpenoid enriched whereas the hexane fraction comprises predominantly sterol constituents. Stellasterol and 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 3‐glycoside were demonstrated to have a high affinity towards Bcl‐2 protein. Overall, G. neo‐japonicum can be considered as a compelling therapeutic candidate for cancer treatment.
Entflechtung von Wachstum und Ressourcenverbrauch
Authors: Graf Jürgen
Published: August 2020

Unsere gesellschaftliche Verantwortung gegenüber unserer Umwelt verlangt ein grundsätzliches Umdenken im Bauwesen. Die bisherigen Bauweisen haben einen großen Anteil an den Umweltbelastungen wie Umweltverschmutzung, Verlust der Biodiversität und Klimawandel. Umweltverträgliches Bauen kann erreicht werden durch konsequente Einhaltung effizienter, konsistenter und suffizienter Bauweisen. Effizient zu bauen heißt Ressourcen und Energie zu sparen. Konsistent zu bauen bedeutet mit umweltverträglich hergestellten Bauprodukten aus nachwachsenden Ressourcen und in Kreislaufwirtschaft zu konstruieren. Die Rückbaubarkeit von Bauelementen und Bauteilen ist dabei für die Wiederverwendbarkeit unerlässlich. Suffizient zu bauen bedeutet Ressourcenverzicht durch die intelligente Nutzung von Gebäuden. Umweltverträgliches Bauen ist im Kern Abfallvermeidung durch zirkuläre Wertschöpfung und damit die Entflechtung von Wachstum und Ressourcenverbrauch. Die Umsetzung in die Baupraxis gelingt nur durch die konsequente Zusammenarbeit aller am Bau Beteiligten. Die Rahmenbedingungen dazu sind durch die Politik vorzugeben. Wissenschaftliche Forschungen und wirtschaftliche Entwicklungen standardisierter, katalogisierter Verbindungen, Bauelemente und Bauteile sind unerlässlich für den Erfolg von Abfallvermeidung. Anhand des konstruktiven Holzbaus wird die zirkuläre Wertschöpfung im Bauwesen aufgezeigt.
Exploratory analysis of machine learning approaches for surveillance of Zika‐associated birth defects
Authors: Lusk Richard , Zimmerman John , VanMaldeghem Kelley , Kim Suzanna , Roth Nicole M. , Lavinder James , Fulton Anna , Raycraft Meghan , Ellington Sascha R. , Galang Romeo R.
Published: August 2020

In 2016, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) established surveillance of pregnant women with Zika virus infection and their infants in the U.S. states, territories, and freely associated states. To identify cases of Zika‐associated birth defects, subject matter experts review data reported from medical records of completed pregnancies to identify findings that meet surveillance case criteria (manual review). The volume of reported data increased over the course of the Zika virus outbreak in the Americas, challenging the resources of the surveillance system to conduct manual review. Machine learning was explored as a possible method for predicting case status. Ensemble models (using machine learning algorithms including support vector machines, logistic regression, random forests, k‐nearest neighbors, gradient boosted trees, and decision trees) were developed and trained using data collected from January 2016–October 2017. Models were developed separately, on data from the U.S. states, non‐Puerto Rico territories, and freely associated states (referred to as the U.S. Zika Pregnancy and Infant Registry [USZPIR]) and data from Puerto Rico (referred to as the Zika Active Pregnancy Surveillance System [ZAPSS]) due to differences in data collection and storage methods. The machine learning models demonstrated high sensitivity for identifying cases while potentially reducing volume of data for manual review (USZPIR: 96% sensitivity, 25% reduction in review volume; ZAPSS: 97% sensitivity, 50% reduction in review volume). Machine learning models show potential for identifying cases of Zika‐associated birth defects and for reducing volume of data for manual review, a potential benefit in other public health emergency response settings.
Microparticles globally reprogram Streptomyces albus toward accelerated morphogenesis, streamlined carbon core metabolism, and enhanced production of the antituberculosis polyketide pamamycin
Authors: Kuhl Martin , Gläser Lars , Rebets Yuriy , Rückert Christian , Sarkar Namrata , Hartsch Thomas , Kalinowski Jörn , Luzhetskyy Andriy , Wittmann Christoph
Published: August 2020

Streptomyces spp. are a rich source for natural products with recognized industrial value, explaining the high interest to improve and streamline the performance of in these microbes. Here, we studied the production of pamamycins, macrodiolide homologs with a high activity against multiresistant pathogenic microbes, using recombinant Streptomyces albus J1074/R2. Talc particles (hydrous magnesium silicate, 3MgO·4SiO2·H2O) of micrometer size, added to submerged cultures of the recombinant strain, tripled pamamycin production up to 50 mg/L. Furthermore, they strongly affected morphology, reduced the size of cell pellets formed by the filamentous microbe during the process up to sixfold, and shifted the pamamycin spectrum to larger derivatives. Integrated analysis of transcriptome and precursor (CoA thioester) supply of particle‐enhanced and control cultures provided detailed insights into the underlying molecular changes. The microparticles affected the expression of 3,341 genes (56% of all genes), revealing a global and fundamental impact on metabolism. Morphology‐associated genes, encoding major regulators such as SsgA, RelA, EshA, Factor C, as well as chaplins and rodlins, were found massively upregulated, indicating that the particles caused a substantially accelerated morphogenesis. In line, the pamamycin cluster was strongly upregulated (up to 1,024‐fold). Furthermore, the microparticles perturbed genes encoding for CoA‐ester metabolism, which were mainly activated. The altered expression resulted in changes in the availability of intracellular CoA‐esters, the building blocks of pamamycin. Notably, the ratio between methylmalonyl CoA and malonyl‐CoA was increased fourfold. Both metabolites compete for incorporation into pamamycin so that the altered availability explained the pronounced preference for larger derivatives in the microparticle‐enhanced process. The novel insights into the behavior of S. albus in response to talc appears of general relevance to further explore and upgrade the concept of microparticle enhanced cultivation, widely used for filamentous microbes.
Is corporate environmental disclosure associated with firm value? A multicountry study of Gulf Cooperation Council firms
Authors: Gerged Ali Meftah , Beddewela Eshani , Cowton Christopher J.
Published: August 2020

Several studies have found a relationship between corporate social and environmental disclosure and firm value (FV) or accounting profitability. Where environmental disclosure has been the focus, though, only single‐country studies have been published, and most of the previous research concerns the developed world. This study examines the association between corporate environmental disclosure (CED) and FV in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where CED has been increasing from its previous low base. Findings from a multicountry sample of 500 firm‐year observations using a 55‐item unweighted environmental disclosure index suggest that CED is significantly and positively related to FV as measured by Tobin's Q (TBQ). The relationship is robust to using a weighted version of the disclosure index, individual countries and environmental disclosure subindices. Some evidence of a positive relationship between CED and return on assets is also found, but even where statistically significant, the relationship is much weaker than in the case of TBQ. For empirical and theoretical reasons, we recommend that future studies pay greater attention to market‐based proxies, if possible, when investigating the value relevance of CED in both developed and developing countries. Our results suggest that both managers and policymakers in GCC countries should take a positive view of expanded CED.