bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Affective, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes from a resident personal finance curriculum pilot project
Authors: Shappell Eric , Ahn James , Park Yoon Soo , McKillip Ryan , Ernst Michael , Pirotte Matthew , Tekian Ara
Published: May 2021

Background

The transition to residency marks a significant shift in the financial circumstances of medical trainees. Despite existing resources, residents still cite uncertainty in this domain. A personal finance curriculum is needed to close this educational gap and improve the financial well‐being of trainees.

Methods

The curriculum was developed using Kern's framework. Two needs assessments informed the consensus development of goals and objectives, educational strategies, and assessments. Course material was hosted online for asynchronous review and complemented by two 1‐hour webinars. The curriculum was piloted at one institution. Participants completed (1) knowledge assessments before and after the intervention, (2) a survey of reactions to the curriculum, and (3) an assessment of financial behavioral changes after the intervention.

Results

Thirty‐seven residents (37/49, 76%) enrolled in the curriculum. Among participants, 20 (20/37, 54%) completed the curriculum. Most participants agreed or strongly agreed that the content was relevant (20/20, 100%) and clearly presented (19/20, 95%) and that they would recommend the curriculum to other residents (20/20, 100%). Performance on the knowledge assessment improved 21% after the intervention (mean ± SD = pretest 57% ± 17%, posttest = 78% ± 12%; p < 0.001). Most residents (17/20, 85%) also reported behavioral changes including setting new financial goals (12/20, 60%), taking new action toward financial planning (11/20, 55%), and changing financial habits (6/20, 30%). There were no direct financial costs incurred in the implementation of this pilot.

Conclusions

This is a successful pilot of a virtual personal finance curriculum with positive outcomes data. Addressing this problem at scale will require buy‐in from educators around the country to deliver this information to residents that may not otherwise seek it out. Future study should assess curricular outcomes in other settings and the durability of acquired knowledge and behavioral changes over time.
Perish or prosper: Trade patterns for highly perishable seafood products
Authors: Asche Frank , Straume Hans‐Martin , Vårdal Erling
Published: May 2021

In recent years trade with highly perishable agricultural products like fresh fish, berries, and cut flowers has increased substantially. The perishability of these products appears to challenge conventional wisdom when it comes to food trade, which emphasizes the importance of large shipments to reduce transportation costs. In this paper, gravity models and several margins of trade are estimated for the trade with fresh salmon, a highly perishable product. The results indicate that increased geographical distance have a larger negative effect than what is generally reported in the literature. Most interestingly, the number of exporters and the shipment frequency increase while there is little impact on shipment size when trade increase. Hence, freshness and possibly avoidance of losses by not selling products by the expiration date seem to be emphasized rather than economies of scale in transportation. [EconLit Citations: F14, Q22].
A fundamental equation of state for the calculation of thermodynamic properties of chlorine
Authors: Thol Monika , Herrig Stefan , Span Roland , Lemmon Eric W.
Published: May 2021

A fundamental equation of state is presented for the calculation of thermodynamic properties of chlorine. It is expressed in terms of the Helmholtz energy with the independent variables temperature and density. Based on the available experimental data from the literature, the equation is valid from the triple point temperature 172.17–440 K with a maximum pressure of 20 MPa. The quality of the equation is evaluated by comparisons with experimental measurements. Since the equation was developed in part for use in mixture models relevant for carbon capture and storage applications, special focus was also given to correct extrapolation behavior.
Genetic screening of children with marrow failure. The role of primary Immunodeficiencies
Authors: Miano Maurizio , Grossi Alice , Dell'Orso Gianluca , Lanciotti Marina , Fioredda Francesca , Palmisani Elena , Lanza Tiziana , Guardo Daniela , Beccaria Andrea , Ravera Silvia , Cossu Vanessa , Terranova Paola , Giona Fiorina , Santopietro Michelina , Cappelli Enrico , Ceccherini Isabella , Dufour Carlo
Published: May 2021

The differential diagnosis of marrow failure (MF) is crucial in the diagnostic work‐up, since genetic forms require specific care. We retrospectively studied all patients with single/multi‐lineage MF evaluated in a single‐center to identify the type and incidence of underlying molecular defects. The diepoxybutane test was used to screen Fanconi Anemia. Other congenital MFs have been searched using Sanger and/or Next Generation Sequencing analysis, depending on the available tools over the years. Between 2009–2019, 97 patients (aged 0–32 years‐median 5) with single‐lineage (29%) or multilineage (68%) MF were evaluated. Fifty‐three (54%) and 28 (29%) were diagnosed with acquired and congenital MF, respectively. The remaining 16 (17%), with trilinear (n=9) and monolinear (n=7) MF, were found to have an underlying primary immunodeficiency (PID) and showed clinical and biochemical signs of immune‐dysregulation in 10/16 (62%) and in 14/16 (87%) of cases, respectively. Clinical signs were also found in 22/53 (41%) and 8/28 (28%) patients with idiopathic and classical cMF, respectively. Eight out of 16 PIDs patients were successfully transplanted, four received immunosuppression, two did not require treatment, and the remaining two died. We show that patients with single/multi‐lineage MF may have underlying PIDs in a considerable number of cases and that MF may represent a relevant clinical sign in patients with PIDs, thus widening their clinical phenotype. An accurate immunological work‐up should be performed in all patients with MF, and PID‐related genes should be considered when screening MF in order to identify disorders that may receive targeted treatments and/or appropriate conditioning regimens before transplant.
Mechanismus der Aren‐limitierten, nicht‐dirigierten C‐H‐Aktivierung von Arenen mit Palladium**
Authors: Wedi Philipp , Farizyan Mirxan , Bergander Klaus , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , van Gemmeren Manuel
Published: May 2021

Kürzlich wurden Palladium‐Katalysatoren entdeckt, die eine nicht‐dirigierte C‐H‐Aktivierung von Arenen ermöglichen, ohne dass ein Überschuss des Aren‐Substrats erforderlich ist, sodass Methoden entwickelt werden konnten, die die Modifikation fortgeschrittener Syntheseintermediate ermöglichen. Der Schlüssel zum Erfolg war die Verwendung zweier komplementärer Liganden, einer N‐Acylaminosäure und eines N‐Heterozyklus. Detaillierte experimentelle und computergestützte mechanistische Studien zur mittels zweier kooperativer Liganden ermöglichten C‐H‐Aktivierung von Arenen haben uns zur Identifizierung der katalytisch aktiven Spezies und eines Übergangszustandsmodells geführt, das die außergewöhnliche Aktivität und Selektivität dieser Katalysatoren erklärt. Diese Erkenntnisse dürften für die weitere Methodenentwicklung unter Verwendung dieser leistungsstarken Katalysatorklasse von großem Nutzen sein.
(Cyclopentadienone)iron Complexes: Synthesis, Mechanism and Applications in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Akter Monalisa , Anbarasan Pazhamalai
Published: May 2021

(Cyclopentadienone)iron tricarbonyl complexes are catalytically active, inexpensive, easily accessible and air‐stable that are extensively studied as an active pre‐catalyst in homogeneous catalysis. Its versatile catalytic activity arises exclusively due to the presence of a non‐innocent ligand, which can trigger its unique redox properties effectively. These complexes have been employed widely in (transfer)hydrogenation (e. g., reduction of polar multiple bonds, Oppenauer‐type oxidation of alcohols), C−C and C−N bond formation (e. g., reductive aminations, α‐alkylation of ketones) and other synthetic transformations. In this review, we discuss the remarkable advancement of its various synthetic applications along with synthesis and mechanistic studies, until February 2021.
Micro‐droplet Trapping and Manipulation: Understanding Aerosol Better for a Healthier Environment
Authors: Chang Yuan‐Pin , Devi Yanita , Chen Chun‐Hu
Published: May 2021

Understanding the physicochemical properties and heterogeneous processes of aerosols is key not only to elucidate the impacts of aerosols on the atmosphere and humans but also to exploit their further applications, especially for a healthier environment. Experiments that allow for spatially control of single aerosol particles and investigations on the fundamental properties and heterogeneous chemistry at the single‐particle level have flourished during the last few decades, and significant breakthroughs in recent years promise better control and novel applications aimed at resolving key issues in aerosol science. Here we propose graphene oxide (GO) aerosols as prototype aerosols containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and GO can behave as two‐dimensional surfactants which could modify the interfacial properties of aerosols. We describe the techniques of trapping single particles and furthermore the current status of the optical spectroscopy and chemistry of GO. The current applications of these single‐particle trapping techniques are summarized and interesting future applications of GO aerosols are discussed.
Nonprofit solutions for the post‐pandemic world
Authors: Schwan‐Rosenwald Elizabeth
Published: May 2021

Oftentimes overburdened and under‐resourced to begin with, many nonprofits were hit with a multi‐level blow at the start of the pandemic: a sharp increase in demand amidst volunteer fall off, resource constraints and difficulties accessing their constituents to provide essential services and resources. Some have not been able to survive these conditions and have been forced to close permanently. Those that remain are in a precarious position, financially and capacity‐wise.
Ragone Plots for Electrochemical Double‐Layer Capacitors
Authors: Vicentini Rafael , Aguiar João Pedro , Beraldo Renato , Venâncio Raissa , Rufino Fernando , Da Silva Leonardo M. , Zanin Hudson
Published: May 2021

The Ragone plot (RP) compares devices in energy and power density characteristics, helping engineers decide on a specific energy storage system for technological applications. RP would contrast the performance of several technologies together under similar boundary conditions. Unfortunately, that is not what is happening for electrochemical double‐layer capacitors (EDLCs) because conditions for calculating energy and power are not standardized in the literature, resulting in severe discrepancies in the obtained values. With this widespread misconception, RP may become an unreliable tool for characterizing EDLCs. An intervention in this vital issue now becomes necessary. To put action on that, a rational strategy for dealing with measurements needed for EDLCs and calculations to prepare a reliable RP is reported here. This manuscript presents a step‐by‐step procedure to provide a correct RP. Also, simple theoretical demonstrations of how to get each fundamental equation are presented. In general, this work contributes as a guide to obtain reliable RPs for EDLCs.
Flagellar export apparatus and ATP synthetase: Homology evidenced by synteny predating the Last Universal Common Ancestor
Authors: Matzke Nicholas J. , Lin Angela , Stone Micaella , Baker Matthew A. B.
Published: May 2021

We report evidence further supporting homology between proteins in the F1FO‐ATP synthetase and the bacterial flagellar motor (BFM). BFM proteins FliH, FliI, and FliJ have been hypothesized to be homologous to FO‐b + F1‐δ, F1‐α/β, and F1‐γ, with similar structure and interactions. We conduct a further test by constructing a gene order dataset, examining the order offliH,fliI, andfliJgenes across the phylogenetic breadth of flagellar and nonflagellar type 3 secretion systems, and comparing this to published surveys of gene order in the F1FO‐ATP synthetase, its N‐ATPase relatives, and the bacterial/archaeal V‐ and A‐type ATPases. Strikingly, thefliHIJgene order was deeply conserved, with the few exceptions appearing derived, and exactly matching the widely conserved F‐ATPase gene orderatpFHAG, coding for subunits b‐δ‐α‐γ. The V/A‐type ATPases have a similar conserved gene order. Our results confirm homology between these systems, and suggest a rare case of synteny conserved over billions of years, predating the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA).
MiRNAs in early brain development and pediatric cancer
Authors: Prieto‐Colomina Anna , Fernández Virginia , Chinnappa Kaviya , Borrell Víctor
Published: May 2021

The size and organization of the brain are determined by the activity of progenitor cells early in development. Key mechanisms regulating progenitor cell biology involve miRNAs. These small noncoding RNA molecules bind mRNAs with high specificity, controlling their abundance and expression. The role of miRNAs in brain development has been studied extensively, but their involvement at early stages remained unknown until recently. Here, recent findings showing the important role of miRNAs in the earliest phases of brain development are reviewed, and it is discussed how loss of specific miRNAs leads to pathological conditions, particularly adult and pediatric brain tumors. Let‐7 miRNA downregulation and the initiation of embryonal tumors with multilayered rosettes (ETMR), a novel link recently discovered by the laboratory, are focused upon. Finally, it is discussed how miRNAs may be used for the diagnosis and therapeutic treatment of pediatric brain tumors, with the hope of improving the prognosis of these devastating diseases.
Preparation and luminescence properties of ZnWO4:Eu3+,Tb3+ phosphors
Authors: Zou Hong‐Yu , Wang Xi‐Gui
Published: May 2021

A series of ZnWO4:Eu3+,Tb3+ phosphors was prepared using a co‐precipitation method at room temperature. The structures and luminescence properties of the materials were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and UV–vis light, differential thermal analysis–thermogravimetric analysis, fluorescence spectra and the calculated Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage (CIE) coordinates. The results showed that the material had a monoclinic structure and the P2/c group was determined using XRD. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the existence of W–O, Zn–O bonds, and Zn–O–W groups in WO6 and ZnO6 octahedra. In the excitation spectrum, there was an overlap of the broad band charge transfer bands belonging to O2−→W6+ and O2−→Eu3+ or O2−→Tb3+ transitions in the range 200–325 nm, and excitation bands between 350 and 500 nm belonged to the characteristic absorption bands for Eu3+ and Tb3+. Therefore, the phosphor can be used as a single component tunable phosphor in light‐emitting diodes.
Resolving the base of the pyramid inclusion paradox through supplier development
Authors: Brix‐Asala Carolin , Seuring Stefan , Sauer Philipp C. , Zehendner Axel , Schilling Lara
Published: May 2021

Resulting from divergent business environments between actors, the integration of the base of the pyramid (BoP) into formal supply chain (SC) structures is often hampered by institutional voids, which can result in the emergence of paradoxical situations. This paper analyzes the potential of supplier development (SD) for addressing the BoP inclusion paradox. The study develops a framework based on the assumption that SD enables the development of capabilities and supplier performance, which is especially relevant when operating in BoP contexts. Seventy‐two semi‐structured interviews stemming from two case studies of (a) a local dairy and (b) an international certified pineapple SCs with BoP involvement provide empirical insights into the theoretical framework. Paradox resolution strategies (temporal separation, spatial separation, and synthesis) are related to (direct and indirect) SD practices. The proposed framework and results show that indirect SD can be used as temporal and spatial separation, but not as synthesis strategy. Contrastingly, direct SD can be used as temporal separation and synthesis. The BoP context needs direct SD to address two sustainability goals simultaneously: the social dimension of BoP inclusion and the economic dimension of formal and efficient SCs. This research extends the discussion on paradoxes in sustainability management to SCs, especially to BoP SCs. It is relevant to show that BoP inclusion is neither a sole win‐win nor trade‐off scenario. Resulting paradoxical situations can be addressed by SD, thereby moving to sustainable supply chain management (SSCM).
The effect of forgiveness psychoeducation on forgiveness and life satisfaction in high school students
Authors: Çelik Eyüp , Ertürk Kafiye
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to obtain preliminary evidence of whether a forgiveness psychoeducation programme increases the level of forgiveness and life satisfaction. The independent variable of this study is the forgiveness psychoeducation, and the dependent variables are forgiveness and life satisfaction. This research was carried out using pretest–post‐test control group design. Data were collected with the Heartland Forgiveness Scale and Satisfaction with Life Scale. The sample of the study consists of 22 students aged 16–17, 11 (8 girls and 3 boys) in the experimental group and 11 (7 girls and 4 boys) in the control group. The effect of the experimental procedure applied in the study on the level of forgiveness and life satisfaction was tested with a two‐factor mixed ANOVA for mixed measurements. The main effects of the group and measurement factors and the common effect of the group X measurement were determined with this method. The research results showed that the forgiveness psychoeducation programme increases the level of forgiveness and life satisfaction in high school students, and this increase did not change in the trial test. Furthermore, at the end of the psychoeducation programme, the students shared that they experienced more positive emotions while evaluating their achievements regarding the process, that they could express the people and experiences they had difficulty in forgiving in the group and that the group guided them to forgive this person and their experiences.
3‐2‐1 vision keeps student‐athletes, coaches focused
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2021

When Meg Stevens began leading the athletics department at Averett University in Virginia eight years ago, she wanted to provide student‐athletes and coaches with a clear understanding of her expectations. So she presented her “3‐2‐1” philosophy, which the department has been embracing as their vision ever since. She explained that philosophy as follows:
Coordination‐Induced N−H Bond Splitting of Ammonia and Primary Amine of CuI−MOFs
Authors: Gao Kuan , Huang Chao , Qiao Yan , Wang Shasha , Wu Jie , Hou Hongwei
Published: May 2021

We report a porous three‐dimensional anionic tetrazolium based CuI−MOF 1, which is capable of cleaving the N−H bond of ammonia and primary amine, as well as the O−H bond of H2O along with spontaneous H2 evolution. In the gas‐solid phase reaction of 1 with ammonia and water vapor, CuI−MOF 1 was gradually oxidized to NH2−CuII−MOF and OH−CuII−MOF, through single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal (SCSC) structural transformations, which was confirmed by XPS, PXRD and X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction. Density functional theory (DFT) demonstrated that CuI−MOF could lower N−H bond dissociation free energy of ammonia through coordination‐induced bond weakening and promote H2 evolution by the reduction potential of 1. To our knowledge, this is the first example of MOFs that activate ammonia and amine in gas‐solid manner.
Hierarchical Architectures Based on Ru Nanoparticles/Oxygen‐Rich‐Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Ding Ruifu , Lin Longjie , Pei Chengang , Yu Xu , Sun Qijun , Park Ho Seok
Published: May 2021

Highly active and durable electrocatalysts are essential for producing hydrogen fuel through the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, a uniform deposition of Ru nanoparticles strongly interacting with oxygen‐rich carbon nanotube architectures (Ru‐OCNT) through ozonation and hydrothermal approaches has been designed. The hierarchical structure of Ru‐OCNT is made by self‐assembly of oxygen functionalities of OCNT. Ru nanoparticles interact strongly with OCNT at the Ru/OCNT interface to give excellent catalytic activity and stability of the Ru‐OCNT, as further confirmed by density functional theory. Owing to the hierarchical structure and adjusted surface chemistry, Ru‐OCNT has an overpotential of 34 mV at 10 mA cm−2 with a Tafel slope of 27.8 mV dec−1 in 1 M KOH, and an overpotential of 55 mV with Tafel slope of 33 mV dec−1 in 0.5 M H2SO4. The smaller Tafel slope of Ru‐OCNT than Ru‐CNT and commercial Pt/C in both alkaline and acidic electrolytes indicates high catalytic activity and fast charge transfer kinetics. The as‐proposed chemistry provides the rational design of hierarchically structured CNT/nanoparticle electrocatalysts for HER to produce hydrogen fuel.
Asymmetric Total Synthesis of Oxazolomycins B and C
Authors: Song Yeonghun , Kim Jae Hyun , Kim Young Chan , Kim Sanghee
Published: May 2021

Efforts towards the first total synthesis of (−)‐oxazolomycin B and (+)‐oxazolomycin C from the intermediate of our previous synthesis of (+)‐neoxazolomycin are reported. The syntheses were achieved in a longest linear sequence of 25 steps from the amino acid serine in 3.6 and 2.7 % overall yields, respectively. The efficiency of our approach is derived from silyl triflate‐mediated reductive oxazolidine ring‐opening and Fürstner's Ru‐catalyzed hydrosilylation and protodesilylation reactions. The obtained spectra and optical rotations were in good agreement with those of natural products, thus confirming the structures.
A Proton‐Responsive Pyridyl(benzamide)‐Functionalized NHC Ligand on Ir Complex for Alkylation of Ketones and Secondary Alcohols
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , U Din Reshi Noor , Patra Kamaless , Bhattacherya Arindom , Kunnikuruvan Sooraj , Bera Jitendra K.
Published: May 2021

A Cp*Ir(III) complex (1) of a newly designed ligand L1 featuring a proton‐responsive pyridyl(benzamide) appended on N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) has been synthesized. The molecular structure of 1 reveals a dearomatized form of the ligand. The protonation of 1 with HBF4 in tetrahydrofuran gives the corresponding aromatized complex [Cp*Ir(L1H)Cl]BF4 (2). Both compounds are characterized spectroscopically and by X‐ray crystallography. The protonation of 1 with acid is examined by 1H NMR and UV‐vis spectra. The proton‐responsive character of 1 is exploited for catalyzing α‐alkylation of ketones and β‐alkylation of secondary alcohols using primary alcohols as alkylating agents through hydrogen‐borrowing methodology. Compound 1 is an effective catalyst for these reactions and exhibits a superior activity in comparison to a structurally similar iridium complex [Cp*Ir(L2)Cl]PF6 (3) lacking a proton‐responsive pendant amide moiety. The catalytic alkylation is characterized by a wide substrate scope, low catalyst and base loadings, and a short reaction time. The catalytic efficacy of 1 is also demonstrated for the syntheses of quinoline and lactone derivatives via acceptorless dehydrogenation, and selective alkylation of two steroids, pregnenolone and testosterone. Detailed mechanistic investigations and DFT calculations substantiate the role of the proton‐responsive ligand in the hydrogen‐borrowing process.
Preparation of Butadienylpyridines by Iridium‐NHC‐Catalyzed Alkyne Hydroalkenylation and Quinolizine Rearrangement
Authors: Azpíroz Ramón , Greger Ingo , Oro Luis A. , Passarelli Vincenzo , Castarlenas Ricardo , Pérez‐Torrente Jesús J.
Published: May 2021

Iridium(I) N‐heterocyclic carbene complexes of formula Ir(κ2O,O’‐BHetA)(IPr)(η2‐coe) [BHetA=bis‐heteroatomic acidato, acetylacetonate or acetate; IPr=1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazolin‐2‐carbene; coe=cyclooctene] have been prepared by treating Ir(κ2O,O’‐BHetA)(η2‐coe)2 complexes with IPr. These complexes react with 2‐vinylpyridine to afford the hydrido‐iridium(III)‐alkenyl cyclometalated derivatives IrH(κ2O,O’‐BHetA)(κ2N,C‐C7H6N)(IPr) through the iridium(I) intermediate Ir(κ2O,O’‐BHetA)(IPr)(η2‐C7H7N). The cyclometalated IrH(κ2O,O’‐acac)(κ2N,C–C7H6N)(IPr) complex efficiently catalyzes the hydroalkenylation of aromatic and aliphatic terminal alkynes and enynes with 2‐vinylpyridine to afford 2‐(4R‐butadienyl)pyridines with Z,E configuration as the major reaction products (yield up to 89 %). In addition, unprecedented (Z)‐2‐butadienyl‐5R‐pyridine derivatives have been obtained as minor reaction products (yield up to 21 %) from the elusive 1Z,3gem‐butadienyl hydroalkenylation products. These compounds undergo a thermal 6π‐electrocyclization to afford bicyclic 4H‐quinolizine derivatives that, under catalytic reaction conditions, tautomerize to 6H‐quinolizine to afford the (Z)‐2‐(butadienyl)‐5R‐pyridine by a retro‐electrocyclization reaction.
Hyperpolarized 13C Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Fumarate Metabolism by Parahydrogen‐induced Polarization: A Proof‐of‐Concept in vivo Study
Authors: Stewart Neil J. , Nakano Hitomi , Sugai Shuto , Tomohiro Mitsushi , Kase Yuki , Uchio Yoshiki , Yamaguchi Toru , Matsuo Yujirou , Naganuma Tatsuya , Takeda Norihiko , Nishimura Ikuya , Hirata Hiroshi , Hashimoto Takuya , Matsumoto Shingo
Published: May 2021

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Dr. Neil J. Stewart, Prof. Hiroshi Hirata, and Dr. Shingo Matsumoto (Hokkaido University, Japan) as well as Dr. Takuya Hashimoto (Chiba University, Japan). The image shows hyperpolarized 13C fumarate metabolism to hyperpolarized 13C malate, which is released into the extracellular space in regions of necrotic cell death, where the cell membrane is disrupted. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202001038.
Assessing Protein Synthesis and Degradation Rates in Arabidopsis thaliana Using Amino Acid Analysis
Authors: Ishihara Hirofumi , Moraes Thiago A. , Arrivault Stéphanie , Stitt Mark
Published: May 2021

Plants continually synthesize and degrade proteins, for example, to adjust protein content during development or during adaptation to new environments. In order to estimate global protein synthesis and degradation rates in plants, we developed a relatively simple and inexpensive method using a combination of 13CO2 labeling and mass spectrometry–based analyses. Arabidopsis thaliana plants are subjected to a 24‐hr 13CO2 pulse followed by a 4‐day 12CO2 chase. Soluble alanine and serine from total protein and glucose from cell wall material are analyzed by gas chromatography time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (GC‐TOF‐MS) and their 13C enrichment (%) is estimated. The rate of protein synthesis during the 13CO2 pulse experiment is defined as the rate of incorporation of labeled amino acids into proteins normalized by a correction factor for incomplete enrichment in free amino acid pools. The rate of protein degradation is estimated as the difference between the rate of protein synthesis and the relative growth rate calculated using the 13C enrichment of glucose from cell wall material. Degradation rates are also estimated from the 12CO2 pulse experiment. The following method description includes setting up and performing labeling experiments, preparation and measurement of samples, and calculation steps. In addition, an R script is provided for the calculations. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Setting up the 13CO2 labeling system and stable isotope labeling of Arabidopsis thaliana rosette leaves

Basic Protocol 2: Extraction of soluble amino acids for GC‐TOF‐MS analysis

Basic Protocol 3: Preparation of amino acids from total protein for GC‐TOF‐MS analysis

Basic Protocol 4: Preparation of sugars from cell wall material for GC‐TOF‐MS analysis

Basis Protocol 5: GC‐TOF‐MS analysis of 13C‐labeled samples and estimation of 13C enrichment (%)

Basis Protocol 6: Estimation of protein synthesis and degradation rates
Agrobacterium‐Mediated Transformation of Setaria viridis, a Model System for Cereals and Bioenergy Crops
Authors: Finley Todd , Chappell Hal , Veena Veena
Published: May 2021

Setaria viridis is an emerging model system for the genetic and molecular characterization of cereals and bioenergy crops. Here, we describe a detailed procedure for genetic transformation of the S. viridis accession line ME034V‐1. This method utilizes callus generated from mature seeds for infection with Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain AGL1 to regenerate hygromycin‐resistant stable transgenic plants. It takes approximately 7 weeks to generate callus from mature seeds, 11‐17 weeks from infection to the regeneration of transgenic lines, and an additional 3‐4 weeks for plant growth in the greenhouse for seed collection. The protocol as presented consistently results in transformation frequency of approximately 25% for the generation of transgenic plants, with fewer escapes and higher survivability in soil for optimal seed collection. © 2021 Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Generation of S. viridis (Accession ME034V‐1) callus from mature seeds

Basic Protocol 2: Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation of callus to generate transgenic plants

Basic Protocol 3: Plantlet transplantation in soil, plant growth in greenhouse, and seed collection

Support Protocol: Preparation of Agrobacterium culture for infection
SHIRPA as a Neurological Screening Battery in Mice
Authors: Lalonde Robert , Filali Mohammed , Strazielle Catherine
Published: May 2021

The SmithKline, Harwell, Imperial College, Royal Hospital, Phenotype Assessment (SHIRPA) is a rapid battery of tests comprising 42 measurements of motor activity, coordination, postural control, muscle tone, autonomic functions, and emotional reactivity, as well as reflexes dependent on visual, auditory, and tactile modalities. Individual scores in SHIRPA are sensitive in detecting phenotypes of several experimental models of neural disease, especially cerebellar degeneration and Alzheimer disease, and combined subscores have been useful in estimating the impact of vascular anomalies and exposure to infectious agents. In cerebellar degeneration, weak forelimb grip, impaired wire maneuver and air righting, and negative geotaxis appear as prevalent features. Most of the measures in the battery are susceptible to change after gene modifications or physiological alterations. SHIRPA can be used both in adult mice and mice in the preweaning period to screen for sensorimotor function and emotional reactivity, not selective attention or memory. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC

This article was corrected on 28 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol: Step‐by‐step procedure for SHIRPA
Waste to Wealth: Chemical Recycling and Chemical Upcycling of Waste Plastics for a Great Future
Authors: Chen Huan , Wan Kun , Zhang Yayun , Wang Yanqin
Published: May 2021

The linear approach to resource utilization has led to the accumulation of waste plastic in the environment for decades. Unfortunately, both traditional mechanical recycling and incineration have faced their bottlenecks that have always resulted in quality deterioration and value recovery failures. Recently, chemical recycling and upcycling processes, including the conversion of plastics into their virgin monomers, liquid fuels, or chemical feedstocks to produce value‐added products, have been identified as the most promising strategy for recovering value from waste plastics. However, these methods are often cost prohibitive and relying on stringent conditions compared to current recycling methods. Accordingly, this Minireview summarizes recent trends and achievements in the chemical recycling and upcycling of waste plastics. We highlight three research topics: depolymerization of plastics into monomers; degradation of plastics into liquid fuels and waxes; and conversion of plastics into hydrogen, fine chemical feedstocks, and value‐added functional materials. Indeed, chemical recycling and upcycling is a bright path to a circular and environmentally friendly plastic economy.
Automatisierter Bau von Kalksandstein‐Mauerwerk mit Seilrobotern
Authors: Roske Thomas , Lipowsky Justus , Palzer Ulrich , Eden Wolfgang , Schäfers Martin , Lemmen Patrik , Heidel Robin , Boumann Roland , Spengler Arnim , Bruckmann Tobias
Published: May 2021

Seilroboter stellen einen innovativen und vielversprechenden Ansatz bei der Digitalisierung und Automatisierung im Mauerwerksbau dar. Zudem verfügen sie über das Potenzial, die Verarbeitung von Mauersteinen zu revolutionieren. Denn der Einsatz von Seilrobotern eröffnet die Möglichkeit, große Bauvolumina auch bei komplexen Geometrien und reduziertem Personaleinsatz in kürzester Zeit zu errichten. Damit steigt perspektivisch nicht nur die Produktivität in den Bauunternehmen, es wird auch dem Mangel an qualifizierten Fachkräften entgegengewirkt und das Image der Branche insgesamt verbessert.

An der praktischen Umsetzung der Digitalisierung und Automatisierung im Mauerwerksbau mittels Seilroboter arbeitet seit dem 1. Februar 2019 die Forschungsvereinigung Kalk‐Sand e.V. gemeinsam mit dem Lehrstuhl für Mechatronik und dem Institut für Baubetrieb und Baumanagement der Universität Duisburg‐Essen sowie dem IAB – Institut für Angewandte Bauforschung Weimar gGmbH.

Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Einblick in die Realisierung eines Funktionsmusters eines Seilroboters inklusive einer Bemörtelungseinrichtung, mit dem das automatisierte Mauern anhand eines eingeschossigen Mustergebäudes demonstriert werden soll.
Study focuses on transition to college for students with ADHD
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2021

College students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder received, on average, grades that were half a grade below their peers, and this deficit persisted for all four years of their enrollment. That finding comes from the largest and most comprehensive study of the experience of college students with ADHD, recently published in the Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology.
Cascading effects: insights from the U.S. Long Term Ecological Research Network
Authors: Bahlai Christie A. , Hart Clarisse , Kavanaugh Maria T. , White Jeffrey D. , Ruess Roger W. , Brinkman Todd J. , Ducklow Hugh W. , Foster David R. , Fraser William R. , Genet Hélène , Groffman Peter M. , Hamilton Stephen K. , Johnstone Jill F. , Kielland Knut , Landis Douglas A. , Mack Michelle C. , Sarnelle Orlando , Thompson Jonathan R.
Published: May 2021

Ecosystems across the United States are changing in complex and unpredictable ways and analysis of these changes requires coordinated, long‐term research. This paper is a product of a synthesis effort of the U.S. National Science Foundation funded Long‐Term Ecological Research (LTER) network addressing the LTER core research area of “populations and communities.” This analysis revealed that each LTER site had at least one compelling “story” about what their site would look like in 50–100 yr. As the stories were prepared, themes emerged, and the stories were group into papers along five themes: state change, connectivity, resilience, time lags, and cascading effects. This paper addresses the cascading effects theme and includes stories from the Bonanza Creek (boreal), Kellogg Biological Station (agricultural and freshwater), Palmer (Antarctica), and Harvard Forest (temperate forest) LTER sites. We define cascading effects very broadly to include a wide array of unforeseen chains of events that result from a variety of actions or changes in a system. While climate change is having important direct effects on boreal forests, indirect effects mediated by fire activity—severity, size, and return interval—have large cascading effects over the long term. In northeastern temperate forests, legacies of human management and disturbance affect the composition of current forests, which creates a cascade of effects that interact with the climate‐facilitated invasion of an exotic pest. In Antarctica, declining sea ice creates a cascade of effects including declines in Adèlie and increases in Gentoo penguins, changes in phytoplankton, and consequent changes in zooplankton populations. An invasion of an exotic species of lady beetle is likely to have important future effects on pest control and conservation of native species in agricultural landscapes. New studies of zebra mussels, a well‐studied invader, have established links between climate, the heat tolerance of the mussels, and harmful algal blooms. Collectively, these stories highlight the need for long‐term studies to sort out the complexities of different types of ecological cascades. The diversity of sites within the LTER network facilitates the emergence of overarching concepts about trophic interactions as an important driver of ecosystem structure, function, services, and futures.
An Acyclic Diaminocarbene Complex of Platinum Formed by Desulfurization of 1,3‐Bis(3‐methylpyridin‐2‐yl)thiourea
Authors: Bulak Ece , Dogan Ilknur , Varnali Tereza , Schwederski Brigitte , Gunal Sule Erol , Lönnecke Peter , Bubrin Martina , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: May 2021

The reaction of the ambidentate ligand 1,3‐bis(3‐methylpyridin‐2‐yl)thiourea (1) with [PtCl2(dmso)2] in dichloromethane led to formation of a poorly soluble compound 2, characterized as a conventional chelate complex [PtCl2(1)]=2. Reaction in methanol resulted in desulfurization to produce a fluorescing cationic diaminocarbene−platinum(II) complex 3, the structure of which was elucidated by X‐ray crystallography, mass spectrometry and NMR. Experimental findings were supported by DFT calculations.
Free Fatty Acids Reduction in Waste Cooking Oil by Rhodosporidium toruloides and Simultaneous Carotenoids, Lipids, and PAL Enzyme Production in a Two‐Phase Culture System
Authors: Lee Jaslyn Jie Lin , Li Aaron , Lyu Xiaomei , Kim Jae Jung , Chen Wei Ning
Published: May 2021

Waste cooking oil (WCO) is a problematic waste product that contains free fatty acids (FFAs), preventing it from being valorized easily as biodiesel and poses an environmental hazard if incorrectly disposed. The use of WCO as a carbon source for Rhodosporidium toruloides (R. toruloides) using a two‐phase culture system is developed. The normal growth of R. toruloides when cultured in WCO (OD600 52) reveals its ability to use a hydrophobic substrate as the carbon source compared to glucose (OD600 51.9). Interestingly, the extracellular lipase activity when R. toruloides is grown on WCO is 14.4 U mL−1 compared to when grown on glucose (2.4 U mL−1). Additionally, FFA levels in WCO are reduced from 2% to 0.2% at end of fermentation, suggesting that R. toruloides can consume FFA. Furthermore, higher yield of beneficial products: β‐carotene (4.57 µg mL−1), torularhodin (4.2 µg mL−1), fatty acids (1 mg mL−1), and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL) enzyme (0.12 µmol mg−1) are produced when WCO is the carbon source, compared to glucose (4.1 µg mL−1 β‐carotene, 3.0 µg mL−1 torularhodin, 1 mg mL−1 of fatty acids, and 0.096 µmol mg−1 PAL enzyme). This is a first study that shows R. toruloides can grow on hydrophobic carbon source.
Antioxidant and Biological Activities of Novel Structured Monoacylglycerol Derivatives with Phenolic Acids
Authors: Gandhi Bhukya , Juliya Johny , Dileep Veeragoni , Uma Rajeswari Batchu , Misra Sunil , Kaki Shiva Shanker
Published: May 2021

Novel structured monoacylglycerol (MAG)‐based phenolic lipids are synthesized from11‐bromoundecanoic acid, phenolic acids, and solketal. Selected phenolic acids namely 4‐hydroxy benzoic, vanillic, syringic, cinnamic, p‐coumaric, sinapic, 4‐fluorocinnamic, 4‐hydroxyphenyl acetic acid, 3‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl) propanoic and dihydrocaffeic acids are employed for the synthesis of ten novel MAG‐based phenolic lipids. The synthesized phenolic lipids are characterized by FT‐IR, NMR, and mass spectra analysis. All the compounds are evaluated for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. MAG derivative 8g of sinapic acid exhibits excellent antioxidant activity in both DPPH assay and inhibition of lipid oxidation assay. MAG derivative 8f bearing p‐coumaric acid shows good antimicrobial activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacterial strains with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 6.25 µm mL−1. All the synthesized compounds are found to exhibit cytotoxicity against B16, DU145, and CHO cell lines, while sinapic and p‐coumaric acid derivatives exhibit better activities compared to other derivatives.
Propargyl Radicals in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Muresan Marcus , Subramanian Hariharaputhiran , Sibi Mukund P. , Green James R.
Published: May 2021

The appearance of propargyl radicals as synthetic intermediates has increased in recent years from a structural curiosity to a frequent occurrence. This minireview covers the synthetically relevant organic chemistry involving the intermediacy of propargyl radicals. The review is organized by the process employed in radical generation, including H‐atom abstraction, propargyl‐X homolyses, radical addition to enynes, reduction of polar C=X bonds, reductions of stable carbocations, and metal‐mediated coupling reactions. The relevant mechanisms of generation and reaction are discussed, as are applications in syntheses of target molecules of interest.
Dietary supplementation with N‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid‐enriched fish oil promotes wound healing after ultraviolet B‐induced sunburn in mice
Authors: Meng Fanxing , Qiu Jiayi , Chen Houjie , Shi Xiaojun , Yin Meifang , Zhu Meishu , Yang Guang
Published: May 2021

N‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFA) can alleviate ultraviolet B (UVB)‐induced skin cancers, but their effects on sunburn and upcoming wound healing remain controversial. This study aimed to explore the impact of n‐3 PUFA‐enriched fish oil (n‐3 PUFA‐FO) on UVB‐induced sunburns and subsequent healing. Sixty C57BL/6 female mice were divided into two groups. The treated group mice were fed n‐3 PUFA‐FO for the entire duration of the experiment. Mice in the control group were fed a standard diet. After two weeks of n‐3 PUFA‐FO feeding, mice were exposed to UVB for 20 min and sacrificed 20 d later. Skin photodamage and lesion area were recorded during wound healing. Epidermal lesion thickness was quantified in hematoxylin and eosin‐stained skin sections. Inflammation and macrophage polarization were assessed by qRT‐PCR. Oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activity were quantified using specific ELISA kits. N‐3 PUFA‐FO feeding decreased UVB photodamage and accelerated wound healing progression, both of which were coupled with less intense inflammation and increased macrophage M2 phenotype polarization. Furthermore, n‐3 PUFA‐FO brought about a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels but increased the activity of catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GP), without changing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. N‐3 PUFA‐FO protects against UVB‐induced skin photodamage and promotes wound healing by modulating macrophage phenotypic polarization and antioxidant enzyme activities. N‐3 PUFA‐FO could be a novel therapeutic approach for both the prevention and treatment of sunburns.
Reimagining Hydropower and Green Hydrogen
Authors: Russo Thomas N.
Published: May 2021

The US, European Union, and other countries that have set net‐zero carbon emission targets and participate in the Paris Accord are placing big bets on wind and solar to produce green hydrogen (H2). Here in the US lawmakers and policy makers seem to have overlooked hydropower as a source of renewable energy even though it accounts for 52 percent of the nation's renewable electricity generation and 7 percent of total electricity generation. For example, indigenous communities and environmental groups are opposed to hydropower because of its impacts on fish, wildlife, and water quality.
Penalized linear mixed models for structured genetic data
Authors: Reisetter Anna C. , Breheny Patrick
Published: May 2021

Many genetic studies that aim to identify genetic variants associated with complex phenotypes are subject to unobserved confounding factors arising from environmental heterogeneity. This poses a challenge to detecting associations of interest and is known to induce spurious associations when left unaccounted for. Penalized linear mixed models (LMMs) are an attractive method to correct for unobserved confounding. These methods correct for varying levels of relatedness and population structure by modeling it as a random effect with a covariance structure estimated from observed genetic data. Despite an extensive literature on penalized regression and LMMs separately, the two are rarely discussed together. The aim of this review is to do so while examining the statistical properties of penalized LMMs in the genetic association setting. Specifically, the ability of penalized LMMs to accurately estimate genetic effects in the presence of environmental confounding has not been well studied. To clarify the important yet subtle distinction between population structure and environmental heterogeneity, we present a detailed review of relevant concepts and methods. In addition, we evaluate the performance of penalized LMMs and competing methods in terms of estimation and selection accuracy in the presence of a number of confounding structures.
Genetic, epigenetic, and post‐transcriptional basis of divergent tissue regenerative capacities among vertebrates
Authors: Khyeam Sheamin , Lee Sukjun , Huang Guo N.
Published: May 2021

Regeneration is widespread across the animal kingdom but varies vastly across phylogeny and even ontogeny. Adult mammalian regeneration in most organs and appendages is limited, while vertebrates such as zebrafish and salamanders are able to regenerate various organs and body parts. Here, we focus on the regeneration of appendages, spinal cord, and heart—organs and body parts that are highly regenerative among fish and amphibian species but limited in adult mammals. We then describe potential genetic, epigenetic, and post‐transcriptional similarities among these different forms of regeneration across vertebrates and discuss several theories for diminished regenerative capacity throughout evolution.
The influence of facility volume on patient treatments and survival outcomes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Goshtasbi Khodayar , Abiri Arash , Lehrich Brandon M. , Haidar Yarah M. , Tjoa Tjoson , Kuan Edward C.
Published: May 2021

Background

This study evaluates the influence of facility case‐volume on nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treatments and overall survival (OS).

Methods

The 2004–2015 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with NPC receiving definitive treatment.

Results

A total of 8260 patients (5‐year OS: 63.4%) were included. The 1114 unique facilities were categorized into 854 low‐volume (treating 1–8 patients), 200 intermediate‐volume (treating 9–23 patients), and 60 high‐volume (treating 24–187 patients) facilities. Kaplan–Meier log‐rank analysis demonstrated significantly improved OS with high‐volume facilities (p < 0.001). On cox proportional‐hazard multivariate regression after adjusting for age, sex, income, insurance, comorbidity index, histology, AJCC clinical stage, and treatment type, high‐volume facilities were associated with lower mortality risk than low‐volume (HR = 0.865, p = 0.019) and intermediate‐volume facilities (HR = 0.916, p = 0.004). Propensity score matching analysis confirmed this association (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Higher facility volume was an independent predictor of improved OS in NPC, suggesting a possible survival benefit of referrals to high‐volume medical centers.