bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Becoming and belonging in interdisciplinary PhD research
Authors: Gullbekk Eystein
Published: March 2020

PhD research has been depicted as a process of belonging and becoming. Through information-related activities, such as looking for, finding, avoiding or citing literature, PhD-students connect with people and texts that possess cognitive authority within their discipline or domain. It is assumed that supervisors in the discipline are the most important figures as regards the modelling of PhD-students scholarly identities. For instance, a widely cited textbook on doctoral writing states that “PhD students’ writing is shaped by discipline-specific conventions and protocols; by conversations with advisors who literally embody the discipline” (Kamler and Thomson, 2008, p. 508, cited in Gullbekk & Byström, 2019, p.20). The role of the library and the librarians may well be to facilitate discipline or domain specific information-related activities. In interdisciplinary environments however, PhD-students may experience a process of becoming without belonging and the domain-based cognitive authority of texts and authors may be negotiable.  

In this round-table, we will explore the role of the library in interdisciplinary PhD-research. First, we will familiarize ourselves with select views on interdisciplinarity and reflect on variations among the roundtable-participants’ interdisciplinary experiences. Second, and more importantly, we will discuss complexities that occur in scholarly communication in a multi-disciplinary research environment where the students write article-based dissertations. We will explore the role of supervisors, librarians included, in a particular case where students must draw on multiple fields or disciplines, where questions of the cognitive authority of texts and of PhD-students’ belonging emerge as somewhat contested.  

The case discussed in the round table is based on fieldwork conducted in an interdisciplinary department at a Scandinavian University. Participants may familiarize themselves with the case by reading the article Becoming a scholar by publication – PhD students citing in interdisciplinary argumentation (Gullbekk & Byström, 2019).
How to create and develop writing centres
Authors: Galtung Ingrid , Hambro Cathinka Dahl , Kavli Solveig
Published: March 2020

This roundtable addresses how three Norwegian writing centres – in different stages of their establishment and settled within different constitutional frames – handle staff policy and aims to facilitate academic writing to their main users; students and PhD candidates.

We will structure the discussion around four main themes that we juggle in our daily work: 

Using strategic plans to promote academic writing development and student throughput

Co-creating learning activities with and for MA students

Keeping up with the Library and Faculty

Strengthening and further developing academic writing in Higher Education

Attendees at the roundtable will be invited to discuss and participate in a dialogue on the way in which writing centres can improve the students’ and PhD candidates’ writing process; why we find teaching and preaching academic writing to be an important skill, and how we can co-create learning activities in libraries and writing centres with academic staff and students. We will also discuss the issue of legitimacy, and  what it takes to move writing centre activities from the periphery to the centre of the institution and its pedagogical mission. The audience will leave with ideas and inspirations on how to facilitate and build good writing centres in collaboration between staff, librarians and experienced students.
Velkomst og åpning
Authors: Raade Johanne
Published: March 2020

Innledning til RDA-kurs i FAIR forskingsdatakuratering 2020
Praktisk informasjon
Authors: Conzett Philipp
Published: March 2020

Praktisk informasjon om RDA-kurs i FAIR forskingsdatakuratering 2020
Comparative proteinuria management of different angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers for normotensive patients with CKD: a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: Ye Huizhen , Huo Zhihao , Ye Peiyi , Xiao Guanqing , Zhang Zhe , Xie Chao , Kong Yaozhong
Published: March 2020

Background

Both angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are blood pressure-lowering agents, but they are also being used to control proteinuria in early chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, clinically, some patients present merely proteinuria without hypertension. No guidelines pointed out how to select treatments for proteinuria in normotensive patients. Thus, we conducted a Bayesian network analysis to evaluate the relative effects of different kinds of ACEI or ARB or their combination on proteinuria and blood pressure reduction.

Methods

The protocol was registered in PROSPERO with ID CRD42017073721. A comprehensive literature database query was carried out systematically according to PICOS strategies. The primary outcome was reduction in proteinuria, and the secondary outcomes were eGFR reduction and blood pressure reduction. Random-effects pairwise and Bayesian network meta-analyses were used to estimate the effect of different regimens.

Results

A total of 14 RCTs with 1,098 patients were included in the analysis. All treatment strategies of ACEI, ARB or their combination had significantly greater efficacy in reducing proteinuria than placebo in normotensive CKD patients. The combination therapy of olmesartan+temocapril had the highest probability (22%) of being the most effective treatment to reduce proteinuria in normotensive CKD patients. Olmesartan and lisinopril ranked second (12%), and temocapril ranked third (15%) but reduced blood pressure less than placebo. For IgA nephropathy, the combination therapy of olmesartan+temocapril also had the highest probability (43%) of being the best antiproteinuric treatment, while enalapril had the highest probability (58%) of being the best antiproteinuric therapy for diabetic nephropathy.

Conclusions

The combination therapy of olmesartan plus temocapril appeared to be the most efficacious for reducing proteinuria in normotensive CKD patients and IgA nephropathy, but the clinical application should be balanced against potential harms. Temocapril can be an option when practitioners are searching for more proteinuria reduction but less blood pressure variation. In normotensive diabetic nephropathy, monotherapy with the ACEI enalapril seems to be the most efficacious intervention for reducing albuminuria. Future studies are required to give a more definitive recommendation.
Gut microbiome variation is associated to Multiple Sclerosis phenotypic subtypes
Authors: Reynders Tatjana , Devolder Lindsay , Valles‐Colomer Mireia , Van Remoortel Ann , Joossens Marie , De Keyser Jacques , Nagels Guy , D’hooghe Marie , Raes Jeroen
Published: March 2020

Objective

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a heterogenous, inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Microbiota alterations in MS versus healthy controls (HC) are observed, but results are inconsistent. We studied diversity, enterotypes, and specific gut microbial taxa variation between MS and HC, and between MS subgroups.

Methods

Amplicon sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA V4 region (Illumina MiSeq) was used to evaluate alpha and beta diversity, enterotypes, and relative taxa abundances on stool samples. MS subgroups were based on phenotype, disease course modifiers, and treatment status. Results were controlled for recently identified confounders of microbiota composition.

Results

Ninety‐eight MS patients and 120 HC were included. Microbial richness was lower in interferon‐treated (RRMS_I, N = 24) and untreated relapsing–remitting MS during relapse (RRMS_R, N = 4) when compared to benign (BMS, N = 20; Z = −3.07, Pcorr = 0.032 and Z = −2.68, Pcorr = 0.055) and primary progressive MS (PPMS, N = 26; Z = −2.39, Pcorr = 0.062 and Z = −2.26, Pcorr = 0.071). HC (N = 120) and active untreated MS (RRMS_U, N = 24) showed intermediate microbial richness. Enterotypes were associated with clinical subgroups (N = 218, χ2 = 36.10, P = 0.002), with Bacteroides 2 enterotype being more prevalent in RRMS_I. Butyricicoccus abundance was lower in PPMS than in RRMS_U (Z = −3.00, Pcorr = 0.014) and BMS (Z = −2.56, Pcorr = 0.031), lower in RRMS_I than in BMS (Z = −2.50, Pcorr = 0.034) and RRMS_U (Z = −2.91, Pcorr = 0.013), and inversely correlated with self‐reported physical symptoms (rho = −0.400, Pcorr = 0.001) and disease severity (rho = −0.223, P = 0.027).

Interpretation

These results emphasize the importance of phenotypic subcategorization in MS‐microbiome research, possibly explaining previous result heterogeneity, while showing the potential for specific microbiome‐based biomarkers for disease activity and severity.
Single Extracellular Vesicle Protein Analysis Using Immuno‐Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction Amplification
Authors: Ko Jina , Wang Yongcheng , Carlson Jonathan C. T. , Marquard Angela , Gungabeesoon Jeremy , Charest Alain , Weitz David , Pittet Mikael J. , Weissleder Ralph
Published: March 2020

There is a need for novel analytical techniques to study the composition of single extracellular vesicles (EV). Such techniques are required to improve the understanding of heterogeneous EV populations, to allow identification of unique subpopulations, and to enable earlier and more sensitive disease detection. Because of the small size of EV and their low protein content, ultrahigh sensitivity technologies are required. Here, an immuno‐droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (iddPCR) amplification method is described that allows multiplexed single EV protein profiling. Antibody–DNA conjugates are used to label EV, followed by stochastic microfluidic incorporation of single EV into droplets. In situ PCR with fluorescent reporter probes converts and amplifies the barcode signal for subsequent read‐out by droplet imaging. In these proof‐of‐principle studies, it is shown that multiplex protein analysis is possible in single EV, opening the door for future analyses.
All‐Dielectric Programmable Huygens' Metasurfaces
Authors: Leitis Aleksandrs , Heßler Andreas , Wahl Sophia , Wuttig Matthias , Taubner Thomas , Tittl Andreas , Altug Hatice
Published: March 2020

Low‐loss nanostructured dielectric metasurfaces have emerged as a breakthrough platform for ultrathin optics and cutting‐edge photonic applications, including beam shaping, focusing, and holography. However, the static nature of their constituent materials has traditionally limited them to fixed functionalities. Tunable all‐dielectric infrared Huygens' metasurfaces consisting of multi‐layer Ge disk meta‐units with strategically incorporated non‐volatile phase change material Ge3Sb2Te6 are introduced. Switching the phase‐change material between its amorphous and crystalline structural state enables nearly full dynamic light phase control with high transmittance in the mid‐IR spectrum. The metasurface is realized experimentally, showing post‐fabrication tuning of the light phase within a range of 81% of the full 2π phase shift. Additionally, the versatility of the tunable Huygen's metasurfaces is demonstrated by optically programming the spatial light phase distribution of the metasurface with single meta‐unit precision and retrieving high‐resolution phase‐encoded images using hyperspectral measurements. The programmable metasurface concept overcomes the static limitations of previous dielectric metasurfaces, paving the way for “universal” metasurfaces and highly efficient, ultracompact active optical elements like tunable lenses, dynamic holograms, and spatial light modulators.
A Trip to Oz and a Peak Behind the Curtain of Magnesium Batteries
Authors: Bonnick Patrick , Muldoon John
Published: March 2020

The introduction of the Li‐ion battery has revolutionized the electronics industry due to its high energy density. Magnesium batteries may have the potential to exceed the energy densities of Li‐ion batteries. Herein, the major advancements in magnesium electrochemistry and the challenges that must be overcome to realize a practical magnesium battery are discussed. So too are the controversial realities of current magnesium battery research and their implications.
Full‐Color Complex‐Amplitude Vectorial Holograms Based on Multi‐Freedom Metasurfaces
Authors: Deng Zi‐Lan , Jin Mingke , Ye Xuan , Wang Shuai , Shi Tan , Deng Junhong , Mao Ningbin , Cao Yaoyu , Guan Bai‐Ou , Alù Andrea , Li Guixin , Li Xiangping
Published: March 2020

Phase, polarization, amplitude, and frequency represent the basic dimensions of light, playing crucial roles for both fundamental light–material interactions and all major optical applications. Metasurfaces have emerged as a compact platform to manipulate these knobs, but previous metasurfaces have limited flexibility to simultaneous control them. A multi‐freedom metasurface that can simultaneously and independently modulate phase, polarization, and amplitude in an analytical form is introduced, and frequency multiplexing is further realized by a k‐space engineering technique. The multi‐freedom metasurface seamlessly combines geometric Pancharatnam–Berry phase and detour phase, both of which are frequency independent. As a result, it allows complex‐amplitude vectorial hologram at various frequencies based on the same design strategy, without sophisticated nanostructure searching of massive geometric parameters. Based on this principle, full‐color complex‐amplitude vectorial meta‐holograms in the visible are experimentally demonstrated with a metal–insulator–metal architecture, unlocking the long‐sought full potential of advanced light field manipulation through ultrathin metasurfaces.
Engineered Near‐Infrared Fluorescent Protein Assemblies for Robust Bioimaging and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Li Jingjing , Li Bo , Sun Jing , Ma Chao , Wan Sikang , Li Yuanxin , Göstl Robert , Herrmann Andreas , Liu Kai , Zhang Hongjie
Published: March 2020

Fluorescent proteins are investigated extensively as markers for the imaging of cells and tissues that are treated by gene transfection. However, limited transfection efficiency and lack of targeting restrict the clinical application of this method rooted in the challenging development of robust fluorescent proteins for in vivo bioimaging. To address this, a new type of near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent protein assemblies manufactured by genetic engineering is presented. Due to the formation of well‐defined nanoparticles and spectral operation within the phototherapeutic window, the NIR protein aggregates allow stable and specific tumor imaging via simple exogenous injection. Importantly, in vivo tumor metastases are tracked and this overcomes the limitations of in vivo imaging that can only be implemented relying on the gene transfection of fluorescent proteins. Concomitantly, the efficient loading of hydrophobic drugs into the protein nanoparticles is demonstrated facilitating the therapy of tumors in a mouse model. It is believed that these theranostic NIR fluorescent protein assemblies, hence, show great potential for the in vivo detection and therapy of cancer.
Yield component responses of biotechnology‐derived drought tolerant maize under controlled environment conditions
Authors: Fischer Joshua , Nemali Krishna , Raychaudhuri Aniruddha , Corbin Jeff , Shirrell Tom , O'Connor David , Barberis Laura , Klug Kelly , Li Xin , Singh Daljit , Zapata Fatima , Rogan Glennon J.
Published: March 2020

Drought stress is a prevalent environmental factor that results in significant yield losses for maize (Zea mays L.). Genetic improvements through modern breeding methods and the introduction of biotechnology‐derived traits have been used to improve tolerance to drought stress. Conducting yield efficacy trials in the field for plants that exhibit tolerance to abiotic stress poses several challenges, including the inability to control multiple unpredictable environmental stressors. Controlled environment conditions were tested to evaluate yield parameters commonly observed in the field for MON 87460 maize expressing the cold shock protein B (CspB) protein. Maize plants subjected to water‐limitation treatment in the controlled environment exhibited phenotypic characteristics of drought stress consistent with those observed under field conditions. MON 87460 exhibited significant relative increases in ear length, kernel number, and grain weight following water‐limitation treatment. These results demonstrate that the controlled environment is an alternate option for evaluating drought tolerance in maize.
Flooding and salinity reduces AC saltlander green wheatgrass and smooth bromegrass productivity
Authors: Gu Chen , Iwaasa Alan D. , Wall Ken , Gatzke Craig , Zhang Jun , Zhao Mengli
Published: March 2020

Flooding alone or with salinity occurs widespread in North America inhibiting plant productivity. Waterlogging refers to the saturation of the soil with water where the root system of plants are submerged, however, the ability of AC Saltlander green wheatgrass (Elymus hoffmannii Jensen & Asay, ACS) and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss., SB) to tolerate waterlogging or with salinity remains unknown. Two experiments were conducted in a phytotron to evaluate the effects and the recovery of ACS and SB following water receding. An incomplete Latin square design was used with six treatments [two species × three waterlogging durations (no waterlogging, 3 and 5 wk of waterlogging)]. Neither the 3 nor 5 wk of waterlogging had effects on forage yields, plant heights, or root biomass for ACS; while for SB all characteristics decreased in both duration treatments. Waterlogging combined with salinity further decreased forage productivity and root biomass for both ACS and SB. Both species resumed regrowth after the excess water receded, and their regrowth yields and nutritive values were similar in either waterlogging or salinity alone, although ACS regrowth yields were higher than SB after 3 and 5 wk of waterlogging with salinity. Therefore, ACS performed better than SB in areas that have the risk of spring waterlogging alone or with moderate salinity. The implication of this research is that waterlogging risks can be partially minimized by careful management.
Microtransplantation in older patients with AML: A pilot study of safety, efficacy and immunologic effects
Authors: Sung Anthony D. , Jauhari Shekeab , Siamakpour‐Reihani Sharareh , Rao Arati V. , Staats Janet , Chan Cliburn , Meyer Everett , Gadi Vijayakrishna K. , Nixon Andrew B. , Lyu Jing , Xie Jichun , Bohannon Lauren , Li Zhiguo , Hourigan Christopher S. , Dillon Laura W. , Wong Hong Yuen , Shelby Rebecca , Diehl Louis , de Castro Carlos , LeBlanc Thomas , Brander Danielle , Erba Harry , Galal Ahmed , Stefanovic Alexandra , Chao Nelson , Rizzieri David A.
Published: March 2020

Older AML patients have low remission rates and poor survival outcomes with standard chemotherapy. Microtransplantation (MST) refers to infusion of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells without substantial engraftment. MST has been shown to improve clinical outcomes compared with chemotherapy alone. This is the first trial reporting on broad correlative studies to define immunologic mechanisms of action of MST in older AML patients. Older patients with newly diagnosed AML were eligible for enrollment, receiving induction chemotherapy with cytarabine (100 mg/m2) on days 1‐7 and idarubicin (12 mg/m2) on days 1‐3 (7 + 3). MST was administered 24 hours later. Patients with complete response (CR) were eligible for consolidation with high dose cytarabine (HiDAC) and a second cycle of MST. Responses were evaluated according to standard criteria per NCCN. Immune correlative studies were performed. Sixteen patients were enrolled and received 7 + 3 and MST (median age 73 years). Nine (56%) had high‐risk and seven (44%) had standard‐risk cytogenetics. Ten episodes of CRS were observed. No cases of GVHD or treatment‐related mortality were reported. Event‐free survival (EFS) was 50% at 6 months and 19% at 1 year. Overall survival (OS) was 63% at 6 months and 44% at 1 year. Donor microchimerism was not detected. Longitudinal changes were noted in NGS, TCR sequencing, and cytokine assays. Addition of MST to induction and consolidation chemotherapy was well tolerated in older AML patients. Inferior survival outcomes in our study may be attributed to a higher proportion of very elderly patients with high‐risk features. Potential immunologic mechanisms of activity of MST include attenuation of inflammatory cytokines and emergence of tumor‐specific T cell clones.
Revisiting Indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole: Synthesis, Structures, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Zhao Mengna , Zhang Binghao , Miao Qian
Published: March 2020

Indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole presents a π‐skeleton with a remarkable electronic structure and interesting potential applications. It is, however, also associated with ambiguity and controversy. Herein, new derivatives of indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole are reported and they have enabled a comprehensive study on the electronic structure of indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole and the development of a new n‐type organic semiconductor. Experimental and computational studies show that indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole has a largely localized p‐benzoquinonediimine moiety and significant antiaromaticity. When substituted with (4‐silylethynyl)phenyl groups, the indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole exhibits one‐dimensional π–π stacking and functions as an n‐type organic semiconductor in solution‐processed field effect transistors.
Mediation of Cartilage Matrix Degeneration and Fibrillation by Decorin in Post‐traumatic Osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Qing , Han Biao , Wang Chao , Tong Wei , Wei Yulong , Tseng Wei‐Ju , Han Li‐Hsin , Liu X. Sherry , Enomoto‐Iwamoto Motomi , Mauck Robert L. , Qin Ling , Iozzo Renato V. , Birk David E. , Han Lin
Published: March 2020

Objective

To elucidate the role of decorin, a small leucine‐rich proteoglycan, in the degradation of cartilage matrix during the progression of post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Three‐month–old decorin‐null (Dcn−/−) and inducible decorin‐knockout (DcniKO) mice were subjected to surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) to induce post‐traumatic OA. The OA phenotype that resulted was evaluated by assessing joint morphology and sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) staining via histological analysis (n = 6 mice per group), surface collagen fibril nanostructure via scanning electron microscopy (n = 4 mice per group), tissue modulus via atomic force microscopy–nanoindentation (n = 5 or more mice per group) and subchondral bone structure via micro–computed tomography (n = 5 mice per group). Femoral head cartilage explants from wild‐type and Dcn−/− mice were stimulated with the inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) in vitro (n = 6 mice per group). The resulting chondrocyte response to IL‐1β and release of sGAGs were quantified.

Results

In both Dcn−/− and DcniKO mice, the absence of decorin resulted in accelerated sGAG loss and formation of highly aligned collagen fibrils on the cartilage surface relative to the control (P < 0.05). Also, Dcn−/− mice developed more salient osteophytes, illustrating more severe OA. In cartilage explants treated with IL‐1β, loss of decorin did not alter the expression of either anabolic or catabolic genes. However, a greater proportion of sGAGs was released to the media from Dcn−/− mouse explants, in both live and devitalized conditions (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In post‐traumatic OA, decorin delays the loss of fragmented aggrecan and fibrillation of cartilage surface, and thus, plays a protective role in ameliorating cartilage degeneration.
Histology and Embryology Education in China: The Current Situation and Changes Over the Past 20 Years
Authors: Cheng Xin , Chan Lap Ki , Li He , Yang Xuesong
Published: March 2020

In mainland China, histology and embryology (HE) are taught in one course as an essential component of medical curricula. The effectiveness of HE courses directly affects the quality of medical students. To determine the present situation and changes in HE teaching in Chinese medical schools, a nationwide survey was conducted among the HE departmental leaders. In total, 66 responses were included in the study, representing prominent Chinese mainland medical schools. The results revealed that most HE teachers have medical educational backgrounds; an increasing number of teaching staff with PhDs have joined the teaching staffs. A range of 71 to 90 HE curriculum contact hours is predominant. The ratio of theory to practice for HE contact hours is 1:1 at half of the surveyed medical schools. The numbers of students in each laboratory are less than 30 and from 31 to 60 at 23 and 36 medical schools, respectively. Virtual microscopy is employed in 40% of the surveyed medical schools. Didactic teaching is the most common strategy, although new teaching approaches are being employed gradually. During the past 20 years, both the total number of HE teachers and the number of HE teachers with medical educational backgrounds have been reduced in at least half of the surveyed schools. A total of 83.33% of the surveyed schools have reduced their HE contact hours. Almost half of the Chinese medical schools remained unchanged in both their ratio of theory to practice and the number of students in each laboratory. The data derived from this study help to understand the development of the HE discipline at Chinese medical schools.
Recent Advances in Sustainable Plastic Upcycling and Biopolymers
Authors: Sohn Yu Jung , Kim Hee Taek , Baritugo Kei‐Anne , Jo Seo Young , Song Hye Min , Park Se Young , Park Su Kyeong , Pyo Jiwon , Cha Hyun Gil , Kim Hoyong , Na Jeong‐Geol , Park Chulhwan , Choi Jong‐Il , Joo Jeong Chan , Park Si Jae
Published: March 2020

Advances in scientific technology in the early twentieth century have facilitated the development of synthetic plastics that are lightweight, rigid, and can be easily molded into a desirable shape without changing their material properties. Thus, plastics become ubiquitous and indispensable materials that are used in various manufacturing sectors, including clothing, automotive, medical, and electronic industries. However, strong physical durability and chemical stability of synthetic plastics, most of which are produced from fossil fuels, hinder their complete degradation when they are improperly discarded after use. In addition, accumulated plastic wastes without degradation have caused severe environmental problems, such as microplastics pollution and plastic islands. Thus, the usage and production of plastics is not free from environmental pollution or resource depletion. In order to lessen the impact of climate change and reduce plastic pollution, it is necessary to understand and address the current plastic life cycles. In this review, “sustainable biopolymers” are suggested as a promising solution to the current plastic crisis. The desired properties of sustainable biopolymers and bio‐based and bio/chemical hybrid technologies for the development of sustainable biopolymers are mainly discussed.
Deal with budget impacts on campus safety
Authors: Miles David
Published: March 2020

Having worked at a private university for most of my career in public safety, I can tell you from experience that one of the biggest issues we face is our budget. I am confident that all my colleagues from other universities, including state‐funded schools, have at some time had to deal with budget reductions.
Antimelanogenic Activity of Ocotillol‐Type Saponins from Panax vietnamensis
Authors: Minh Nguyen Hien , Truong Nguyen Huy , Win Nwet , Piow Wong Chin , Vu Huynh Kim Long , Hoang Nhat Nam , Do Kiep Minh , Thi Nguyen Hoai , Viet Ho Duc , Duc Nguyen Minh , Morita Hiroyuki
Published: March 2020

The ocotillol (OCT)‐type saponins have been known as a tetracyclic triterpenoid, possessing five‐ or six‐membered epoxy ring in the side chain. Interestingly, this type saponin was mostly found in Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv., Araliaceae (VG), hence making VG unique from the other Panax spp. Five OCT‐type saponins, majonoside R2, vina‐ginsenoside R2, majonoside R1, pseudoginsenoside RT4, vina‐ginsenoside R11, together with three protopanaxadiol (PPD)‐type saponins and four protopanaxatriol (PPT)‐type saponins from VG were evaluated for their antimelanogenic activity. All of isolates were found to be active. More importantly, the five OCT‐type saponins inhibited melanin production in B16‐F10 mouse melanoma cells, without showing any cytotoxicity. Besides ginsenoside Rd and ginsenoside Rg3 in PPD and notoginsenoside R1 in PPT‐type saponins, majonoside R2 was the most potent melanogenesis inhibitory activity in OCT‐type saponins. In this article, we highlighted antimelanogenic activity of OCT‐type saponins and potential structure–activity relationship (SAR) of ginsenosides. Our results suggested that OCT‐type saponins could be used as a depigmentation agent.
An appreciation of the prescience of Don Gilbert (1930–2011): master of the theory and experimental unravelling of biochemical and cellular oscillatory dynamics
Authors: Gilbert Kay , Hammond Kate D. , Brodsky Vsevolod Y. , Lloyd David
Published: March 2020

We review Don Gilbert's pioneering seminal contributions that both detailed the mathematical principles and the experimental demonstration of several of the key dynamic characteristics of life. Long before it became evident to the wider biochemical community, Gilbert proposed that cellular growth and replication necessitate autodynamic occurrence of cycles of oscillations that initiate, coordinate and terminate the processes of growth, during which all components are duplicated and become spatially re‐organised in the progeny. Initiation and suppression of replication exhibit switch‐like characteristics, that is, bifurcations in the values of parameters that separate static and autodynamic behaviour. His limit cycle solutions present models developed in a series of papers reported between 1974 and 1984, and these showed that most or even all of the major facets of the cell division cycle could be accommodated. That the cell division cycle may be timed by a multiple of shorter period (ultradian) rhythms, gave further credence to the central importance of oscillatory phenomena and homeodynamics as evident on multiple time scales (seconds to hours). Further application of the concepts inherent in limit cycle operation as hypothesised by Gilbert more than 50 years ago are now validated as being applicable to oscillatory transcript, metabolite and enzyme levels, cellular differentiation, senescence, cancerous states and cell death. Now, we reiterate especially for students and young colleagues, that these early achievements were even more exceptional, as his own lifetime's work on modelling was continued with experimental work in parallel with his predictions of the major current enterprises of biological research.
Guillain‐Barré syndrome in a man presenting with upper extremity monoplegia
Authors: Gowan Jacqueline Marie , Golla Abhinav , Liu Antonio
Published: March 2020

Outside academia, community and rural medical centers often rely on clinical signs and symptoms for early intervention, as means of gathering objective data may be unavailable, or the reliance of biological testing may take too long to return. Continued reporting of atypical presentations is therefore necessary for broadening clinical recognition of such cases.
Intracardiac ultrasound‐guided left bundle branch pacing in a bradycardia patient
Authors: Zhang Jiefang , Sun Yaxun , Zhang Zuwen , Jiang Chenyang , Fu Guosheng
Published: March 2020

Left bundle branch pacing was associated with narrower QRS in patients with pacemaker indications. LBBP guided by ICE improves the accuracy of LBBP, facilitates the lead localization, minimizes complications, and above all reduces radiation exposure time.
Recent Enzymatic Electrochemistry for Reductive Reactions
Authors: Cadoux Cécile , Milton Ross D.
Published: March 2020

Enzymatic electrochemistry is the coupling of oxidoreductase enzymes to electrodes, where electrons are transferred between the electrode and an enzyme's cofactor(s). In addition to enzymatic electrochemistry enabling mechanistic study [such as the determination of cofactor reduction potential(s)], enzymatic electrocatalysis also enables substrate reduction or oxidation by exploiting the catalytic properties of enzymes. This Minireview illustrates some recent examples, in which electrodes are coupled with enzymes that catalyze the reduction of substrates such as dinitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and protons (H+), performed by metalloenzymes such as nitrogenases, formate dehydrogenases and hydrogenases. We review some strategies to achieve electron transfer (such as mediated and direct electron transfer), as well as some key results of recent studies.
Enhanced Long Persistent Luminescence by Multifold Interpenetration in Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhu Cheng‐Yi , Fu Peng‐Yan , Mo Jun‐Ting , Ruan Jia , Pan Mei , Su Cheng‐Yong
Published: March 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with long persistent luminescence (LPL) have attracted widespread attention due to potential applications in displays, anticounterfeiting, and so on. However, MOFs often have large pore size, which restricts the formation of efficient inter‐ and intramolecular interactions to realize LPL. Herein, a new approach to achieving LPL in MOFs by multifold interpenetration of discrete frameworks is reported. By comparison between threefold‐ and twofold‐interpenetrating MOFs, it was found that the former, which have higher multiplicity and denser frameworks, can be endowed with enhanced inter‐ and intramolecular interactions, and thus enhanced LPL is obtained. Meanwhile, metal‐cluster and heavy‐halogen effects could also cause variations in LPL duration and color.
Monohydride‐Dichloro Rhodium(III) Complexes with Chiral Diphosphine Ligands as Catalysts for Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Olefinic Substrates
Authors: Higashida Kosuke , Brüning Fabian , Tsujimoto Nagataka , Higashihara Kenya , Nagae Haruki , Togni Antonio , Mashima Kazushi
Published: March 2020

We report full details of the synthesis and characterization of monohydride‐dichloro rhodium(III) complexes bearing chiral diphosphine ligands, such as (S)‐BINAP, (S)‐DM‐SEGPHOS, and (S)‐DTBM‐SEGPHOS, producing cationic triply chloride bridged dinuclear rhodium(III) complexes (1 a: (S)‐BINAP; 1 b: (S)‐DM‐SEGPHOS) and a neutral mononuclear monohydride‐dichloro rhodium(III) complex (1 c: (S)‐DTBM‐SEGPHOS) in high yield and high purity. Their solid state structure and solution behavior were determined by crystallographic studies as well as full spectral data, including DOSY NMR spectroscopy. Among these three complexes, 1 c has a rigid pocket surrounded by two chloride atoms bound to the rhodium atom together with one tBu group of (S)‐DTBM‐SEGPHOS for fitting to simple olefins without any coordinating functional groups. Complex 1 c exhibited superior catalytic activity and enantioselectivity for asymmetric hydrogenation of exo‐olefins and olefinic substrates. The catalytic activity of 1 c was compared with that of well‐demonstrated dihydride species derived in situ from rhodium(I) precursors such as [Rh(cod)Cl]2 and [Rh(cod)2]+[BF4]− upon mixing with (S)‐DTBM‐SEGPHOS under dihydrogen.
Green‐Light Activation of Push–Pull Ruthenium(II) Complexes
Authors: Moll Johannnes , Wang Cui , Päpcke Ayla , Förster Christoph , Resch‐Genger Ute , Lochbrunner Stefan , Heinze Katja
Published: March 2020

Synthesis, characterization, electrochemistry, and photophysics of homo‐ and heteroleptic ruthenium(II) complexes [Ru(cpmp)2]2+ (22+) and [Ru(cpmp)(ddpd)]2+ (32+) bearing the tridentate ligands 6,2’’‐carboxypyridyl‐2,2’‐methylamine‐pyridyl‐pyridine (cpmp) and N,N’‐dimethyl‐N,N’‐dipyridin‐2‐ylpyridine‐2,6‐diamine (ddpd) are reported. The complexes possess one (32+) or two (22+) electron‐deficient dipyridyl ketone fragments as electron‐accepting sites enabling intraligand charge transfer (ILCT), ligand‐to‐ligand charge transfer (LL'CT) and low‐energy metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) absorptions. The latter peak around 544 nm (green light). Complex 22+ shows 3MLCT phosphorescence in the red to near‐infrared spectral region at room temperature in deaerated acetonitrile solution with an emission quantum yield of 1.3 % and a 3MLCT lifetime of 477 ns, whereas 32+ is much less luminescent. This different behavior is ascribed to the energy gap law and the shape of the parasitic excited 3MC state potential energy surface. This study highlights the importance of the excited‐state energies and geometries for the actual excited‐state dynamics. Aromatic and aliphatic amines reductively quench the excited state of 22+ paving the way to photocatalytic applications using low‐energy green light as exemplified with the green‐light‐sensitized thiol–ene click reaction.
Aqueous‐Based Low‐Temperature Synthesis and Thin‐Film Properties of Oxysulfide BiCuOS Nanoparticles
Authors: Gamon J. , Haller S. , Giaume D. , Robert C. , Thomas C. M. , D'Alençon L. , Buissette V. , Le Mercier T. , Barboux P.
Published: March 2020

BiCuOS is a nontoxic p‐type semiconductor that is a promising candidate for photoelectric applications. The formation of thin films with a good electronic transport at the grain boundaries, while avoiding thermal treatment detrimental to its chemical stability is a challenge. We have developed a chemical method for the direct synthesis of stable colloidal suspensions of BiCuOS nanoparticles from soluble precursors. These colloidal solutions were stabilized with a catechol functionalized poly‐3‐hexylthiophene that allows easy spin‐coating deposition and favors electronic transport along the grain boundaries. Stacking of ZnO–BiCuOS layers were achieved, allowing preparation of n–p junctions. These act as rectifying diodes and are strongly photosensitive, with Iph/Idark=85 corresponding to an enhancement of the photocurrent of more than two orders of magnitude compared to that of BiCuOS alone. This energy‐efficient and low‐cost method is a further step in the development of new sulfide semiconductor devices.
Switching on the Fluorescence Emission of Polypyridine Ligands by Simultaneous Zinc(II) Binding and Protonation
Authors: Conti Luca , Giorgi Claudia , Valtancoli Barbara , Paoli Paola , Rossi Patrizia , Marchionni Andrea , Faggi Enrico , Bencini Andrea
Published: March 2020

The synthesis and characterization of the two new open‐chain ligands 1,15‐bis‐[6‐(2,2’‐bipyridyl)]‐2,5,8,11,14‐pentaaza‐octadecane (L1) and 1,15‐bis‐[2‐(1,10‐phenanthroline)‐9‐methyl]‐2,5,8,11,14‐pentaazaoctadecane (L2), both featuring a tetraethylenpentaamine chain linking via methylene bridges the 6 and 2 positions of two identical 2,2’‐bipyridyl (bpy) and 9‐methyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline (9‐methyl‐phen) moieties respectively, are reported. Their protonation and binding ability for Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+ and Pb2+ have been studied by coupling potentiometric titrations with UV‐vis absorption and fluorescence emission measurements in water. L1 and L2 afford stable mono‐ and dinuclear complexes, in which the metal ion is bound by a single bpy or 9‐methyl‐phen unit and the amine groups on the aliphatic chain. However, L1 displays a greater binding ability for Cu2+ and Zn2+ with respect to L2, the stability constants of the [ML1]2+ complexes being 21.8 (Cu2+) and 19.4 (Zn2+) log units vs 20.34 and 16.8 log. units for the corresponding L2 species. Among all the metal ions tested, only the Zn2+ complex with L2 features an enhanced fluorescence emission at neutral pH, thanks to the simultaneous binding of one Zn2+ ion and H+ ion(s), that inhibits any possible photoinduced electron transfer (PET) process from the amine donors to the excited phen moiety. Binding of a second metal switches off the emission again.
A diallel analysis of a maize donor population response to in vivo maternal haploid induction: II. Haploid male fertility
Authors: De La Fuente Gerald N. , Frei Ursula K. , Trampe Benjamin , Ren Jiaojiao , Bohn Martin , Yana Nicole , Verzegnazzi Anderson , Murray Seth C. , Lübberstedt Thomas
Published: March 2020

Doubled haploid (DH) lines are used in maize (Zea mays L.) breeding to accelerate the breeding cycle and create homogenous inbred lines in as little as two seasons. These pure inbred lines allow breeders to quickly evaluate new cross combinations. There are two important steps in creating DH lines: (a) generation and selection of haploid progeny, and (b) genome doubling to create fertile, diploid inbreds. Colchicine is widely used to artificially double genomes in haploid plants, which is hazardous, expensive, and time consuming. In this study, three public inbred lines—A427, A637, and NK778—were found to have substantial haploid male fertility (HMF). A six‐parent full diallel between these three HMF lines and three non‐HMF lines was created and HMF was scored. Diallel analysis revealed significant general combining ability (GCA) estimates of up to 17% for HMF, as well as significant specific combining ability (SCA) effects of up to 25%. No significant reciprocal effects were found. Haploid male fertility is promising to be incorporated into elite maize breeding programs to potentially overcome the need of using colchicine treatments for genome doubling. Colchicine aided doubling success rates varying from almost 0 to 30%. Haploid male fertility has an advantage over artificial genome doubling, in terms of both increased success rates and decreased costs for DH line production.
Incidence of stroke in the diabetic compared with the non‐diabetic population: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Kvitkina Tatjana , Narres Maria , Claessen Heiner , Metzendorf Maria‐Inti , Richter Bernd , Icks Andrea
Published: March 2020

People with diabetes have a largely increased risk of stroke compared with people without diabetes. Exact data on incidence of stroke in people with and without diabetes are important for improvements in preventive diabetes care, avoidance of fatal outcomes and as a solid basis for health policy and the economy. However, published data are conflicting, underlining the necessity for this systematic review of population‐based studies on incidence, relative risks (RRs) and changes in stroke rates over time. The purpose of our review is to evaluate the incidence of stroke in the diabetic population and its differences with regard to sex, ethnicity, age and regions; to compare the incidence rate (IR) in the diabetic and non‐diabetic populations and to investigate time trends. We will perform a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase and LILACS designed by an experienced information scientist. Two review authors will independently screen the abstracts and full texts of all references on the basis of inclusion criteria regarding types of study, types of population and the main outcome. Data extraction and assessment of risk of bias will be undertaken by two review authors working independently. We will assess IR or cumulative incidence (CumI) and RR of stroke comparing the diabetic and non‐diabetic populations. The attributable risk (AR = proportion of stroke among persons with diabetes that is attributable to diabetes) and the population attributable risk (PAR = proportion of stroke in the whole population that is attributable to diabetes) will be considered where available. In conclusion, this review will help to summarize the available evidence for incidence of stroke in the diabetic and nondiabetic population. The publication of this protocol will contribute to making the search strategy, methods, and assessment of reviews transparent and accessible for all involved professional groups.
A global assessment of the vulnerability of shellfish aquaculture to climate change and ocean acidification
Authors: Stewart‐Sinclair Phoebe J. , Last Kim S. , Payne Ben L. , Wilding Thomas A.
Published: March 2020

Human‐induced climate change and ocean acidification (CC‐OA) is changing the physical and biological processes occurring within the marine environment, with poorly understood implications for marine life. Within the aquaculture sector, molluskan culture is a relatively benign method of producing a high‐quality, healthy, and sustainable protein source for the expanding human population. We modeled the vulnerability of global bivalve mariculture to impacts of CC‐OA over the period 2020–2100, under RCP8.5. Vulnerability, assessed at the national level, was dependent on CC‐OA‐related exposure, taxon‐specific sensitivity and adaptive capacity in the sector. Exposure risk increased over time from 2020 to 2100, with ten nations predicted to experience very high exposure to CC‐OA in at least one decade during the period 2020–2100. Predicted high sensitivity in developing countries resulted, primarily, from the cultivation of species that have a narrow habitat tolerance, while in some European nations (France, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, and Spain) high sensitivity was attributable to the relatively high economic value of the shellfish production sector. Predicted adaptive capacity was low in developing countries primarily due to governance issues, while in some developed countries (Denmark, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom) it was linked to limited species diversity in the sector. Developing and least developed nations (n = 15) were predicted to have the highest overall vulnerability. Across all nations, 2060 was identified as a tipping point where predicted CC‐OA will be associated with the greatest challenge to shellfish production. However, rapid declines in mollusk production are predicted to occur in the next decade for some nations, notably North Korea. Shellfish culture offers human society a low‐impact source of sustainable protein. This research highlights, on a global scale, the likely extent and nature of the CC‐OA‐related threat to shellfish culture and this sector enabling early‐stage adaption and mitigation.
Orbital Decomposition of the Carbon Chemical Shielding Tensor in Gold(I) N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes
Authors: Izquierdo Maria A. , Tarantelli Francesco , Broer Ria , Bistoni Giovanni , Belpassi Leonardo , Havenith Remco W. A.
Published: March 2020

The good performance of N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs), in terms of versatility and selectivity, has called the attention of experimentalists and theoreticians attempting to understand their electronic properties. Analyses of the Au(I)–C bond in [(NHC)AuL]+/0 (L stands for a neutral or negatively charged ligand), through the Dewar–Chatt–Duncanson model and the charge displacement function, have revealed that NHC is not purely a σ‐donor but may have a significant π‐acceptor character. It turns out, however, that only the σ‐donation bonding component strongly correlates with one specific component of the chemical shielding tensor. Here, in extension to earlier works, a current density analysis, based on the continuous transformation of the current density diamagnetic zero approach, along a series of [(NHC)AuL]+/0 complexes is presented. The shielding tensor is decomposed into orbital contributions using symmetry considerations together with a spectral analysis in terms of occupied to virtual orbital transitions. Analysis of the orbital transitions shows that the induced current density is largely influenced by rotational transitions. The orbital decomposition of the shielding tensor leads to a deeper understanding of the ligand effect on the magnetic response properties and the electronic structure of (NHC)‐Au fragments. Such an orbital decomposition scheme may be extended to other magnetic properties and/or substrate‐metal complexes.