bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameterized Algorithms for Book Embedding Problems
Authors: Bhore Sujoy , Ganian Robert , Montecchiani Fabrizio , Nöllenburg Martin
Published: April 2020

A $k$-page book embedding of a graph $G$ draws the vertices of $G$ on a line and the edges on $k$ half-planes (called pages) bounded by this line, such that no two edges on the same page cross. We study the problem of determining whether $G$ admits a $k$-page book embedding both when the linear order of the vertices is fixed, called ${\rm F{\small IXED}-O{\small RDER}~B{\small OOK}~T{\small HICKNESS}}$, or not fixed, called ${\rm B{\small OOK}~T{\small HICKNESS}}$. Both problems are known to be ${\sf NP}$-complete in general. We show that ${\rm F{\small IXED}-O{\small RDER}~B{\small OOK}~T{\small HICKNESS}}$ and ${\rm B{\small OOK}~T{\small HICKNESS}}$ are fixed-parameter tractable parameterized by the vertex cover number of the graph and that ${\rm F{\small IXED}-O{\small RDER}~B{\small OOK}~T{\small HICKNESS}}$ is fixed-parameter tractable parameterized by the pathwidth of the vertex order.
Artfutura 2006 – Parte II
Authors: Marín Antoni
Published: April 2020

Durante la tarde del sábado tuvieron lugar un conjunto de conferencias relacionadas con la animación digital. En la primera de ellas David Mellor, de Framestore CFC, comentó detalladamente algunas de las últimas producciones de la empresa.
Como segunda conferenciante se presentó Helen Brunsdon, de Aardman Animations, creadores de clásicos como Wallace y Gromit o Chicken Run, que hizo un recorrido iniciado en la clásica animación en plastilina en la que han trabajado durante años, hasta un nuevo trabajo en el que, manteniendo una estética similar, se adentran en el mundo de la animación digital en 3 D.
La tercera conferencia de la tarde corrió a cargo de Marc Miance, de Attitude Studio que presentó Renaissance. Se trata de un largometraje realizado mediante la técnica del motion capture.
La cuarta intervención de la tarde fue de Miguel Ángel Fuertes, uno de los grandes nombres de la animación española, que ha trabajado entre 1994 y 2004 en Industrial Light & Magic.
Finalmente Tommy Pallota hizo un recorrido casi personal de su investigación con la técnica de la rotoscopia. Presentó sus primeros trabajos en este campo y, partiendo de unos intentos primitivos, ilustró la evolución que le ha llevado hasta la producción de A Scanner Darkly, una de las obras de Phillip K. Dick.
Life-history features and oceanography drive phylogeographic patterns of the chitonAcanthochitonacf.rubrolineata(Lischke, 1873) in the northwestern Pacific
Authors: Ni Gang , Kim Taeho , Shin Youngheon , Park Jina , Lee Yucheol , Kil Hyun-Jong , Park Joong-Ki
Published: April 2020

Chitons are a group of marine mollusks (class Polyplacophora) characterized by having eight articulating shell plates on their dorsal body surface. They represent suitable materials for studying the spatiotemporal processes that underlie population differentiation and speciation in ocean environments. Here we performed population genetic analyses on the northwestern Pacific chitonAcanthochitonacf.rubrolineata(Lischke, 1873) using two mitochondrial gene fragments (COI and 16S) from 180 individuals sampled from 11 populations among the coastal waters of Korea, Japan, and China. The phylogenetic network uncovered a reticulated relationship with several sub-haplogroups for allA.cf.rubrolineatahaplotypes. SAMOVA analyses suggested the best grouping occurred at three groups (ΦCT = 0.151,P < 0.0001), which geographically corresponds to hydrographic discontinuity among the coastal regions of Korea, Japan, and China. The assumed limited dispersal ability ofA.cf.rubrolineata, coupled with northeasterly flowing, trifurcate warm currents, might have contributed to the genetic differentiation among the three groups. Meanwhile, a high level of within-group genetic homogeneity was detected, indicating extensive coastal currents might facilitate gene flow among the populations within each group. Bayesian skyline plots demonstrated significant population expansion after the Last Glacial Period (110-25 thousand years ago) for all studied populations except the Japan group. Together these results suggest that the present-day phylogeographic patterns ofA.cf.rubrolineataare strongly affected by the interplay of historical and/or contemporary oceanography and species-specific life-history features.
Synthetic dietary inulin, Fuji FF, delays development of diet-induced obesity by improving gut microbiota profiles and increasing short-chain fatty acid production
Authors: Igarashi Miki , Morimoto Miku , Suto Asuka , Nakatani Akiho , Hayakawa Tetsuhiko , Hara Kenjirou , Kimura Ikuo
Published: April 2020

Background

Dietary fiber, including inulin, promotes health via fermentation products, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), produced from the fiber by gut microbiota. SCFAs exert positive physiological effects on energy metabolism, gut immunity, and the nervous system. Most of the commercial inulin is extracted from plant sources such as chicory roots, but it can also be enzymatically synthesized from sucrose using inulin producing enzymes. Studies conducted on rodents fed with a cafeteria diet have suggested that while increasing plasma propionic acid, synthetic inulin modulates glucose and lipid metabolism in the same manner as natural inulin. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effects of a synthetic inulin, Fuji FF, on energy metabolism, fecal SCFA production, and microbiota profiles in mice fed with a high-fat/high-sucrose diet.

Methods

Three-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat/high-sucrose diet containing cellulose or Fuji FF for 12 weeks, and the effects on energy metabolism, SCFA production, and microbiota profiles were evaluated.

Results

Body weight gain was inhibited by Fuji FF supplementation in high-fat/high-sucrose diet-fed C57BL/6J mice by reducing white adipose tissue weight while increasing energy expenditure, compared with the mice supplemented with cellulose. Fuji FF also elevated levels of acetic, propionic and butyric acids in mouse feces and increased plasma propionic acid levels in mice. Moreover, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of fecal samples revealed an elevated abundance of Bacteroidetes and a reduced abundance of Firmicutes at the phylum level in mice supplemented with Fuji FF compared to those supplemented with cellulose. Fuji FF also resulted in abundance of the family Bacteroidales S24-7 and reduction of Desulfovibrionaceae in the feces.

Conclusion

Long term consumption of Fuji FF improved the gut environment in mice by altering the composition of the microbiota and increasing SCFA production, which might be associated with its anti-obesity effects.
Chitinase Production from Locally Isolated Bacillus cereus GS02 from Chitinous Waste Enriched Soil
Authors: Dukariya Garima , Kumar Anil
Published: April 2020

Background and Objective: Chitin is world’s second most abundant structural carbohydrate in nature and is found as a structural component in the cell wall of fungi and exoskeletons of invertebrates. During senescence, it is degraded by the enzyme, chitinase. In addition, chitinase has been exploited for various commercial applications such as control of insects and fungal pathogens in order to protect the crops, waste management, cosmetics and food industries. Chitinases have been found to be widely distributed in various organisms including viruses, animals, bacteria, fungi, higher plants and insects. In the present study, various soil samples enriched in chitinous waste were screened for the isolation of bacteria capable of producing chitinase.

Methodology: Chitinase producing bacteria were isolated using serial dilution plating technique onto different agar media. Primary and secondary screening were performed and the isolate producing maximum chitinase was selected for biochemical identification and 16s rRNA sequencing. The secretion of extracellular chitinase by this strain was optimized with respect to pH, temperature, incubation time, substrate concentration, carbon and nitrogen sources and inoculum size. All these components were optimized using OFAT (one factor at a time) approach.

Results: A total of 29 bacterial isolates were found exhibiting secretion of extracellular chitinase as determined using zones of clearance. Based on the area of zone of clearance, six isolates were selected for secondary screening and the most potent isolate was identified as Bacillus cereus. The maximum chitinase production by this strain was obtained at 37°C and pH 7.0 after 48 hours of incubation. The maximum chitinase secretion was observed on addition of 1% colloidal chitin and 0.05% yeast extract in the medium.
Pectin as a Rheology Modifier: Chemistry, Production, and Rheology
Authors: Chan Siew Yin , Owh Cally , Choo Wee Sim , Young David James , Loh Xian Jun , Li Peng , Huang Wei
Published: April 2020

Pectin is a diverse family of polysaccharides with an anionic backbone of α‐1,4‐linked
d
‐galacturonic acid (GalA) units. It has been widely used as an emulsifier, gelling agent, glazing agent, stabilizer, and thickener in food, pharmaceutical, personal care, and polymer applications. Commercial pectin is obtained through acid extraction from food waste such as apple pomace, citrus peel, and to a lesser extent, sugar beet pulp. Commercial pectin is classified according to degree of methylation (DM): high methoxy pectin (HMP) with DM > 50% and low methoxy pectin (LMP) with DM < 50%. In general, pectin solution exhibits Newtonian behavior at low shear rate and pseudoplastic behavior when the shear rate is increased. The pseudoplastic behavior of pectin solution is more pronounced with higher pectin concentration. HMP gels in the presence of co‐solute in acidic medium through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Alternatively, LMP gels in the presence of cation over a wide range of pH through ionic linkages, famously known as the “egg‐box” model. This review provides an overview of the chemistry, production, and rheology of pectin. In addition, the effect of modification and processing on the physicochemical properties of pectin and the application of pectin as a rheology modifier are discussed.
Defoliation frequency affects litter responses and nitrogen excretion by heifers in palisadegrass–forage peanut pastures
Authors: Gomes Fernanda de Kássia , Homem Bruno Grossi Costa , de Oliveira Michael David Batista Luaemar , Dubeux José Carlos Batista , Boddey Robert Michael , Bernardes Thiago Fernandes , Casagrande Daniel Rume
Published: April 2020

Legumes can contribute significantly to nitrogen (N) input in grazing systems. Grazing management is a critical factor affecting N cycling in mixed pastures, altering the legume N input as a result. This study assessed how defoliation frequency affects N cycling in rotationally stocked palisadegrass (Brachiaria brizantha) and forage peanut (Arachis pintoi) pastures. Treatments included four grazing management strategies, defined by the rest period interruption when the canopy reached 90 (90LI), 95 (95LI), and 100% (100LI) of photosynthetically active radiation interception (LI), and a fixed rest period of 42 d (42D). A 2‐yr experimental period was adopted. Existing litter was greater at 100LI (2208 vs. 1964 kg ha−1; average of 42D, 90LI, and 95LI, respectively). Greater defoliation frequency (42D and 90LI) resulted in increase of litter legume proportion, resulting in greater decomposition rate, lower litter half‐life (p < .001, and p = .015, respectively), and greater N cycling (91 vs. 64 kg ha−1 season−1). Less frequent defoliation (100LI) resulted in reduced total forage intake, proportion of legume intake, and lower N intake compared with other treatments (p = .007, p = .081, and p < .001, respectively). Greater defoliation frequency increased N cycling via litter, but did not affect excretion due to compensation with stocking rate. Defoliation frequency between 90 and 95% LI optimizes N cycling in palisadegrass‐forage peanut mixed pastures.
Radiation interception and leaf area index from foliage cover in diploid potato
Authors: Saldaña‐Villota Tatiana M. , Cotes‐Torres José Miguel
Published: April 2020

The leaf area index (LAI) is defined as the proportion of leaf area per unit of land area. It is also considered as an essential factor in the crop's ability to capture solar energy. Direct methods of LAI estimation involve significant areas of cultivation and individually measuring the total leaf area, which is not an accurate method to assess the LAI in diploid potato (Solanum phureja Juz. et Buk.) cultivars. The objective of this study was to evaluate a practical method for determining the fractional radiation interception and the LAI based on the fractional foliage cover in diploid potato cultivars found using digital photographs and applying open‐source software. Then, we compared the results of this method with the results obtained using a canopy analyzer. The results obtained allow us to estimate foliage and obtain the fractional radiation interception properly, and with these two variables, it is possible to make reasonable estimates of the LAI. It is common to model the LAI, and from this value estimate, the fractional radiation interception. We propose to model the architecture of the plant to know how the diploid potato plant covers the soil in a given space and how much radiation it intercepts, then estimate LAI. This method of estimation would be the closest to the cultivation conditions. Foliage cover depends on the architecture, and the crop simulation model would approximate the plant architecture and not just biomass production and yield.
Immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis: 2020 update on diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment
Authors: Gertz Morie A.
Published: April 2020

Disease Overview

Immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis is a clonal, nonproliferative plasma cell disorder in which fragments of immunoglobulin light or heavy chain are deposited in tissues. Clinical features depend on organs involved but can include heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, nephrotic syndrome, hepatic dysfunction, peripheral/autonomic neuropathy, and “atypical smoldering multiple myeloma or monoclonal gammopathy undetermined significance (MGUS).”

Diagnosis

Tissue biopsy stained with Congo red demonstrating amyloid deposits with apple‐green birefringence is required for diagnosis. Invasive organ biopsy is not required in 85% of patients. Verification that amyloid is composed of immunoglobulin light chains is mandatory. The gold standard is laser capture mass spectroscopy.

Prognosis

N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), serum troponin T, and difference between involved and uninvolved immunoglobulin free light chain (FLC) values are used to classify patients into four groups of similar size; median survivals are 94.1, 40.3, 14.0, and 5.8 months.

Therapy

All patients with a systemic amyloid syndrome require therapy to prevent deposition of amyloid in other organs and prevent progressive organ failure. Stem cell transplant (SCT) is preferred, but only 20% of patients are eligible. Requirements for safe SCT include systolic blood pressure >90 mmHg, troponin T < 0.06 ng/mL and serum creatinine ≤1.7 mg/dL. Nontransplant candidates can be offered cyclophosphamide‐bortezomib‐dexamethasone or daratumumab‐containing regimens as it appears to be highly active in AL amyloidosis.

Future Challenges

Delayed diagnosis remains a major obstacle to initiating effective therapy prior to the development of end‐stage organ failure.
Ein elektronenreiches cyclisches (Alkyl)(amino)carben auf Au(111)‐, Ag(111)‐ und Cu(111)‐Oberflächen
Authors: Bakker Anne , Freitag Matthias , Kolodzeiski Elena , Bellotti Peter , Timmer Alexander , Ren Jindong , Schulze Lammers Bertram , Moock Daniel , Roesky Herbert W. , Mönig Harry , Amirjalayer Saeed , Fuchs Harald , Glorius Frank
Published: April 2020

Die strukturellen Eigenschaften und das Bindungsmotiv eines stark σ‐elektronenschiebenden N‐heterocyclischen Carbens werden an verschiedenen Übergangsmetalloberflächen erforscht. Das untersuchte cyclische (Alkyl)(amino)carben (CAAC) erweist sich auf Oberflächen als mobil, und bei hoher Bedeckung konnten molekulare Inseln mit Nahordnung gefunden werden. Durch die Kombination von Rastertunnelmikroskopie (STM), Röntgenphotoelektronenspektroskopie (XPS) und Dichtefunktionaltheorie (DFT) zeigt unsere Studie, wie CAACs an die Oberfläche binden, was für das Verständnis heterogener Katalysatoren, die CAACs als Liganden tragen, von enormer Bedeutung ist.
A Free‐Radical Prompted Barrierless Gas‐Phase Synthesis of Pentacene
Authors: Zhao Long , Kaiser Ralf I. , Lu Wenchao , Ahmed Musahid , Evseev Mikhail M. , Bashkirov Eugene K. , Azyazov Valeriy N. , Tönshoff Christina , Reicherter Florian , Bettinger Holger F. , Mebel Alexander M.
Published: April 2020

A representative, low‐temperature gas‐phase reaction mechanism synthesizing polyacenes via ring annulation exemplified by the formation of pentacene (C22H14) along with its benzo[a]tetracene isomer (C22H14) is unraveled by probing the elementary reaction of the 2‐tetracenyl radical (C18H11.) with vinylacetylene (C4H4). The pathway to pentacene—a prototype polyacene and a fundamental molecular building block in graphenes, fullerenes, and carbon nanotubes—is facilitated by a barrierless, vinylacetylene mediated gas‐phase process thus disputing conventional hypotheses that synthesis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) solely proceeds at elevated temperatures. This low‐temperature pathway can launch isomer‐selective routes to aromatic structures through submerged reaction barriers, resonantly stabilized free‐radical intermediates, and methodical ring annulation in deep space eventually changing our perception about the chemistry of carbon in our universe.
Key Intermediate Species Reveal the Copper(II)‐Exchange Pathway in Biorelevant ATCUN/NTS Complexes
Authors: Kotuniak Radosław , Strampraad Marc J. F. , Bossak‐Ahmad Karolina , Wawrzyniak Urszula E. , Ufnalska Iwona , Hagedoorn Peter‐Leon , Bal Wojciech
Published: April 2020

The amino‐terminal copper and nickel/N‐terminal site (ATCUN/NTS) present in proteins and bioactive peptides exhibits high affinity towards CuII ions and have been implicated in human copper physiology. Little is known, however, about the rate and exact mechanism of formation of such complexes. We used the stopped‐flow and microsecond freeze‐hyperquenching (MHQ) techniques supported by steady‐state spectroscopic and electrochemical data to demonstrate the formation of partially coordinated intermediate CuII complexes formed by glycyl–glycyl–histidine (GGH) peptide, the simplest ATCUN/NTS model. One of these novel intermediates, characterized by two‐nitrogen coordination, t1/2≈100 ms at pH 6.0 and the ability to maintain the CuII/CuI redox pair is the best candidate for the long‐sought reactive species in extracellular copper transport.
Expanding the Versatility of Microbial Transglutaminase Using α‐Effect Nucleophiles as Noncanonical Substrates
Authors: Chio Tak Ian , Demestichas Breanna R. , Brems Brittany M. , Bane Susan L. , Tumey L. Nathan
Published: April 2020

The substrate promiscuity of microbial transglutaminase (mTG) has been exploited in various applications in biotechnology, in particular for the attachment of alkyl amines to glutamine‐containing peptides and proteins. Here, we expand the substrate repertoire to include hydrazines, hydrazides, and alkoxyamines, resulting in the formation of isopeptide bonds with varied susceptibilities to hydrolysis or exchange by mTG. Furthermore, we demonstrate that simple unsubstituted hydrazine and dihydrazides can be used to install reactive hydrazide handles onto the side chain of internal glutamine residues. The distinct hydrazide handles can be further coupled with carbonyls, including ortho‐carbonylphenylboronic acids, to form site‐specific and functional bioconjugates with tunable hydrolytic stability. The extension of the substrate scope of mTG beyond canonical amines thus substantially broadens the versatility of the enzyme, providing a new approach to facilitate novel applications.
Efficient Light‐Harvesting Antennae Resulting from the Dense Organization of Dyes into DNA Junctions through d‐Threoninol
Authors: Kashida Hiromu , Azuma Hidenori , Maruyama Ryoko , Araki Yasuyuki , Wada Takehiko , Asanuma Hiroyuki
Published: April 2020

Herein we report the construction of efficient light‐harvesting antennae by hybridization of DNA oligonucleotides containing high densities of fluorophores into DNA junctions through d‐threoninol. Six pyrene donors could be incorporated into each arm without self‐quenching. A perylene acceptor was located at the center of the junction. Antenna effects of a duplex and three‐ to eight‐way junctions were systematically compared. Six‐ and eight‐way junctions had the highest antenna effects, and their effective absorption coefficients were 8.5 times higher than that of perylene. Interestingly, even‐numbered junctions had higher efficiencies than odd‐numbered junctions. Nondenaturing gel analyses and fluorescence lifetime measurements demonstrated that the strong odd–even effects were derived from differences in the stability of junctions. The results presented will guide the design of efficient artificial photosynthetic systems.
Reflecting on three creative approaches to informed consent with children under six
Authors: Arnott Lorna , Martinez-Lejarreta Loreain , Wall Kate , Blaisdell Caralyn , Palaiologou Ioanna
Published: April 2020

In an era when children’s rights are paramount, there are still few practical examples to guide us when seeking informed consent from children. This article therefore makes a significant contribution to the field by examining three practical approaches to negotiating informed consent with young children under 6 years old. We draw on researcher field notes, images and observations from four research projects that employed creative methods for seeking informed consent from young children. We take a reflexive approach, considering how successful the three techniques have been in facilitating young children’s decision‐making around research participation. Our findings suggest that innovative approaches to informed consent create spaces for children to engage in dialogue and questioning about the research project. However, in order for the approaches to be meaningful, they need to be pedagogically appropriate to the maturity and capabilities of the children. We also demonstrate that, irrespective of the approach devised, researchers have a responsibility to ensure consent is continuously negotiated throughout the project through reflexive questioning.
Forster resonance energy transfer for studying nucleic acids denaturation: A chemical and biological sciences laboratory experiment
Authors: Carvalho Josué , Cruz Carla
Published: April 2020

The Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) melting assay intends to evaluate the unfolding, denaturation process of DNA secondary structures, and its stabilization using compounds known as DNA binders, some of which are highly specific for G‐quadruplex DNAs versus duplex DNAs. First, students determined the melting temperature (Tm) of DNA sequences double labeled with 5′‐FAM (fluorescein) and 3′‐TAMRA (tetramethylrhodamine) in the absence of DNA binders. Second, they determined the melting temperature of the DNAs in the presence of DNA binders by monitoring fluorescence. After completing this experiment, students understood that this method allows a semiquantitative analysis to test a variety of DNA binders against DNA secondary structures, and it can be used to rapidly identify the most promising drug candidates in the drug development stages at the basic research level.
Tuning Nano‐Nickel Catalyst Hydrogenation Aptitude by On‐the‐Fly Zirconium Doping
Authors: Zienkiewicz‐Machnik Małgorzata , Goszewska Ilona , Giziński Damian , Śrębowata Anna , Kuzmowicz Katarzyna , Kubas Adam , Matus Krzysztof , Lisovytskiy Dmytro , Pisarek Marcin , Sá Jacinto
Published: April 2020

The effect of nano‐Ni catalyst post‐synthetic Zr‐modification on hydrogenation reaction of 6‐methyl‐5‐hepten‐2‐one was investigated in a fixed bed continuous‐flow micro‐reactor to produce fine chemicals. The catalytic performance revealed that Zr‐doping achieved by surface organometallic chemistry approach modifies the natural aptitude of nickel to hydrogenate C=C bond, since the addition of small quantities of zirconium significantly increased the amount of unsaturated and saturated alcohols formed in 6‐methyl‐5‐hepten‐2‐one hydrogenation. Quantum chemical calculations revealed a stronger interaction between Zr←O=C that promotes the formation of C=C semihydrogenation product and enhances the probability of complete hydrogenation. The on‐the‐fly strategy presented herein enables for rapid optimization and understanding of catalytic processes.
Anion Recognition by Neutral Chalcogen Bonding Receptors: Experimental and Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Navarro‐García Encarnación , Galmés Bartomeu , Velasco María D. , Frontera Antonio , Caballero Antonio
Published: April 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Antonio Frontera at the Universitat de les Illes Balears and Antonio Caballero at the Universidad de Murcia. The image depicts one of the tellurophene based receptors described in this work. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201905786.
Synthesis of Symmetrical and Nonsymmetrical Polyenes by Iterative and Bidirectional Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Rivas Aurea , Areal Andrea , Mora Paula , Álvarez Rosana , de Lera Angel R.
Published: April 2020

Bifunctional unsaturated reagents designed to undergo palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions with complementary polyenyl connective fragments are highly useful for the undoubtedly challenging synthesis of polyenes. The current toolkit of building blocks for the bidirectional formation of Csp2−Csp2single bonds of polyenes includes homo‐bisfunctionalized reagents with equal or unequal reactivity (due to steric and/or electronic factors), and hetero‐bisfunctionalized counterparts containing either two different nucleophiles, two electrophiles or one of these functionalities and a latent nucleophile that can be unmasked when desired. The combination of these bifunctional linchpin reagents using tactics that modulate the reactivity of each terminus in order to achieve the required connection have streamlined the synthesis of polyenes of great complexity using (iterative) cross‐coupling methods for Csp2−Csp2bond formation. Reaction conditions for the Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions are mild and functional‐group‐tolerant, and therefore these protocols allow to construct the polyene structures using shorter unsaturated reactants with the desired geometries, since in general the products preserve the stereochemical information of the connected cross‐coupling partners.
Confined Interfacial Synthesis of Highly Crystalline and Ultrathin Graphdiyne Films and Their Applications for N2Fixation
Authors: Kan Xiaonan , Wang Danbo , Pan Qingyan , Wang Yannan , Xiao Yao , Liu Jian , Zhao Yingjie , Li Zhibo
Published: April 2020

Graphdiyne (GDY), as a new carbon allotrope, possessing both sp‐ and sp2‐hybridized carbon atoms, has attracted extensive attention due to great application potentials in various fields. To realize a fundamental understanding of the intrinsic properties of GDY, the controllable synthesis of ultrathin and highly crystalline GDY is necessary and challenging. Herein, a confined interfacial synthetic strategy towards highly crystalline ultrathin GDY at the water/oil/organogel interface, with greatly improved control over GDY structures, is reported. The morphology and chemical composition of GDY was characterized accordingly. After loading with gold, the as‐prepared hydrophobic Au/GDY system showed excellent performance in the nitrogen reduction reaction, reaching the highest yield of 4.15 μg cm−2 h−1with a Faraday efficiency of 1.95 %.
Multitarget Compounds for Bipolar Disorder: From Rational Design to Preliminary Pharmacokinetic Evaluation
Authors: Di Martino Rita Maria Concetta , Bottegoni Giovanni , Seghetti Francesca , Russo Debora , Penna Ilaria , De Simone Alessio , Ottonello Giuliana , Mandrup Bertozzi Sine , Armirotti Andrea , Bandiera Tiziano , Belluti Federica , Cavalli Andrea
Published: April 2020

Due to the complex and multifactorial nature of bipolar disorder (BD), single‐target drugs have traditionally provided limited relief with no disease‐modifying effects. In line with the polypharmacology paradigm, we attempted to overcome these limitations by devising two series of multitarget‐directed ligands endowed with both a partial agonist profile at dopamine receptor D3 (D3R) and inhibitory activity against glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK‐3β). These are two structurally unrelated targets that play independent, yet connected, roles in cognition and mood regulation. Two compounds (7 and 10) emerged as promising D3R/GSK‐3β multitarget‐directed ligands with nanomolar activity at D3R and low‐micromolar inhibition of GSK‐3β, thereby confirming, albeit preliminarily, the feasibility of our strategy. Furthermore, 7 showed promising drug‐like properties in stability and pharmacokinetic studies.
Neuroanatomical and neurophysiological mechanisms of acoustic and weakly electric signaling in synodontid catfish
Authors: Kéver Loïc , Bass Andrew H. , Parmentier Eric , Chagnaud Boris P.
Published: April 2020

To what extent do modifications in the nervous system and peripheral effectors contribute to novel behaviors? Using a combination of morphometric analysis, neuroanatomical tract‐tracing, and intracellular neuronal recording, we address this question in a sound‐producing and a weakly electric species of synodontid catfish, Synodontis grandiops, and Synodontis nigriventris, respectively. The same peripheral mechanism, a bilateral pair of protractor muscles associated with vertebral processes (elastic spring mechanism), is involved in both signaling systems. Although there were dramatic species differences in several morphometric measures, electromyograms provided strong evidence that simultaneous activation of paired protractor muscles accounts for an individual sound and electric discharge pulse. While the general architecture of the neural network and the intrinsic properties of the motoneuron population driving each target was largely similar, differences could contribute to species‐specific patterns in electromyograms and the associated pulse repetition rate of sounds and electric discharges. Together, the results suggest that adaptive changes in both peripheral and central characters underlie the transition from an ancestral sound to a derived electric discharge producing system, and thus the evolution of a novel communication channel among synodontid catfish. Similarities with characters in other sonic and weakly electric teleost fish provide a striking example of convergent evolution in functional adaptations underlying the evolution of the two signaling systems among distantly related taxa.
Photochemistry Relaunched
Authors: Bochet Christian G.
Published: April 2020

Christian G. Bochet
is a Professor at the University of Fribourg (Switzerland). He is a current member of the ChemPhotoChem Editorial Board.
Effect of ploidy level on guard cell length and use of stomata to discard diploids among putative haploids in maize
Authors: da Silva Hingrid Ariane , Scapim Carlos Alberto , Vivas Janieli Maganha Silva , do Amaral Antonio Teixeira , Pinto Ronald José Barth , Mourão Káthia Socorro Mathias , Rossi Robson Marcelo , Baleroni Alessandra Guedes
Published: April 2020

Guard cell (GC) length proved to be efficient in sorting diploids from haploids in doubled haploid development in maize (Zea mays L). It compensates for the weakness of widely used R1‐nj marker approach that showed low reliability in haploids identification from tropical genotypes. Guard cell length differs between haploid and diploid plants, and these differences were evaluated in the progeny of three different induction crosses obtained using Krasnodar haploid inducer. Epidermal impressions of the abaxial surface of leaves removed from the second, third, and fourth nodes (from base to apex) were collected and measured using an optical microscope. This was also conducted on the flowering phenotype. Guard cell length varied according to germplasm source, leaf stage, and ploidy level. Mean GC length ranged from 23.67 to 33.82 μm in haploids, and from 36.1 to 41.25 μm in diploids. Based on these differences in GC length at any of the chosen leaf stages (second, third, or fourth), diploid and haploid maize plants were successfully classified. Classification efficiency was found to be more closely related to germplasm source than leaf stage. Comparing GC length according to phenotype (haploid or diploid), GC limits for classification as a diploid plant (threshold points) were estimated and ranged from 29.74 to 34.49 μm, depending on germplasm source. The highest false discovery rate was 2.93% and false negative rate was 15.06%, indicating that classification based on GC length was reliable.
Conducting Redox Polymer as a Robust Organic Electrode‐Active Material in Acidic Aqueous Electrolyte towards Polymer–Air Secondary Batteries
Authors: Oka Kouki , Strietzel Christian , Emanuelsson Rikard , Nishide Hiroyuki , Oyaizu Kenichi , Strømme Maria , Sjödin Martin
Published: April 2020

Organic materials receive increasing attention as environmentally benign and sustainable electrode‐active materials. We present a conducting redox polymer (CRP) based on poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) with naphthoquinone pendant group, which is formed from a stable suspension of a trimeric precursor and an oxoammonium cation as oxidant. This suspension allows us to easily coat the polymer onto a current collector, opening up use of roll‐to‐roll processing or ink‐jet printing for electrode preparation. The CRP showed a full capacity of 76 mAh g−1 even at a high C rate of 100 C in acidic aqueous electrolyte. These properties make the CRP a promising candidate as anode‐active material; a polymer–air secondary battery was fabricated with the CRP as anode, a conventional Pt/C catalyst as cathode, and sulfuric acid aqueous solution as electrolyte. This battery yielded a discharge voltage of 0.50 V and showed good cycling stability with 97 % capacity retention after 100 cycles and high rate capabilities up to 20 C.
Catalytic and Atom‐Economic Glycosylation using Glycosyl Formates and Cheap Metal Salts
Authors: Yang Liang , Hammelev Christian H. , Pedersen Christian M.
Published: April 2020

Benzylated glycosyl formates have been synthesized in one step from the corresponding hemiacetal or orthoester with formic acid as the sole reagent. The glycosyl formates are used as glycosyl donors under catalytic conditions with cheap metal catalysts based on iron or bismuth. A 13C NMR spectroscopic method is developed and evaluated for screening reactions conditions, giving precise information on the selectivity, yield, and byproducts formed. The major side reaction is transesterification, which gives the formylated acceptor and regenerates the hemiacetal. By using this approach, catalyst loadings and solvents are optimized and the scope of the glycosylation is evaluated for a variety of glycosyl donors and acceptors. A proof of concept for a traceless glycosylation, utilizing a dual‐purpose iron catalyst that catalyzes both glycosylation and dehydrogenation of formic acid, is also provided.
Amplitude modulation and soliton formation of an intense laser beam interacting with dense quantum plasma: Symbolic simulation analysis
Authors: Das Chinmay , Chandra Swarniv , Ghosh Basudev
Published: April 2020

In this theoretical study, we investigate the amplitude modulation and envelop soliton formation in a dense plasma when such a plasma interacts with a strong laser beam. We have made use of the symbolic simulation technique to find the modulation instability of an electrostatic wave with higher orders of non‐linearity. We identified the range of wavenumber in which such non‐linearity is important. Furthermore, we have analysed the formation of envelope soliton of waves localized in space. The results obtained here will be helpful in interpreting different phenomena that arise in laser plasma interaction. The importance of the relativistic contribution of streaming particles is discussed alongside the parametric influences experienced by the plasma particles.
Using environmental DNA for detection of Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans in natural water
Authors: Spitzen ‐ van der Sluijs Annemarieke , Stark Tariq , DeJean Tony , Verbrugghe Elin , Herder Jelger , Gilbert Maarten , Janse Jöran , Martel An , Pasmans Frank , Valentini Alice
Published: April 2020

Rapid, early, and reliable detection of invasive pathogenic microorganisms is essential in order to either predict or delineate an outbreak, and monitor appropriate mitigation measures. The chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans is expanding in Europe, and infection with this fungus may cause massive mortality in urodelans (salamanders and newts). In this study, we designed and validated species‐specific primers and a probe for detection of B. salamandrivorans in water. In a garden pond in close proximity to the B. salamandrivorans index site in the Netherlands, B. salamandrivorans‐infected newts had been detected in 2015 and have been monitored since. In 2016 and 2017, no B. salamandrivorans was detected at this site, but in 2018 B. salamandrivorans flared up in this isolated pond which allowed validation of the technique in situ. We here present the development of an environmental DNA technique that successfully detects B. salamandrivorans DNA in natural waterbodies even at low concentrations. This technique may be further validated to play a role in B. salamandrivorans range delineation and surveillance in both natural waterbodies and in captive collections.
Multivalent and Multifunctional Calixarenes in Bionanotechnology
Authors: Baldini Laura , Casnati Alessandro , Sansone Francesco
Published: April 2020

The key features of calixarene derivatives as multivalent ligands for biomacromolecules and as multifunctional catalysts are reviewed herein. The ease of functionalization and the possibility to control the regio‐ and stereochemical disposition of multiple ligating units around a central core allow to obtain ligands with high affinity and selectivity especially for proteins and nucleic acids. The hydrophilic/lipophilic character can also be finely tuned, allowing to obtain monomeric hybrid derivatives or amphiphiles able to self‐assemble alone or in co‐formulation with lipids to give nanoparticles and liposomes that incorporate calixarenes. The knowledge acquired up to now sheds light on the future applications of calixarenes in bionanotechnology and nanomedicine.
Treatment preferences in fibromyalgia patients: A cross‐sectional web‐based survey
Authors: Valentini Elia , Fetter Eleonora , Orbell Sheina
Published: April 2020

Background

Therapeutic approaches to fibromyalgia (FM) are shifting towards a combined multi‐treatment approach to tackle the variety of symptoms experienced in FM. Importantly, little is known about FM patients' attitude towards the available treatments.

Methods

A cross‐sectional web survey obtained responses from 464 individuals who satisfied diagnostic criteria for FM. Respondents were asked to report which treatments they adopted in their past, present and intend to adopt in the future. They also rated their level of well‐being, depression, anxiety and pain catastrophizing.

Results

Data revealed a predominantly combined multi‐treatment approach in a sample characterized by middle‐aged, Caucasian women. Respondents reported pervasive use of pharmacological therapy but had also adopted non‐pharmacological treatment in the past. Future intentions clustered on alternative treatment or no treatment. Regression analyses revealed that pharmacological treatment in the past was predictive of both pharmacological and non‐pharmacological treatments in the present. However, use of non‐pharmacological treatment in the past was uniquely predictive of its reuse in the present and future. This pattern was also accounted for by individual differences in pain magnification and well‐being in the past.

Conclusions

Treatment preferences of FM individuals reveal an ambivalent combination of heavy reliance on pharmacological treatment with lower but consistent reliance on non‐pharmacological treatment for those individuals who used it in the past and present. This finding may inform longitudinal research into the relationship between pharmacological and non‐pharmacological treatment preference in FM patients, which could in turn inform guidelines for individualized therapeutic plans for clinicians.

Significance

Individuals with fibromyalgia reported the use of non‐pharmacological and pharmacological treatments in the past but a predominant use of a pharmacological approach overall. Patterns of treatment experienced in the past were differentially related to future preferences. Pharmacological treatment in the past was likely to lead to both pharmacological and non‐pharmacological choices in the present. However, non‐pharmacological treatment in the past was more likely to be chosen again in the present and future, but unlikely to lead to a pharmacological choice.
Direct Determination of Paracetamol in Environmental Samples Using Screen‐printed Carbon/Carbon Nanofibers Sensor – Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Sasal Agnieszka , Tyszczuk‐Rotko Katarzyna , Chojecki Michał , Korona Tatiana , Nosal‐Wiercińska Agnieszka
Published: April 2020

The paper describes the first electrochemical method (differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry, DPAdSV) using a screen‐printed sensor with a carbon/carbon nanofibers working electrode (SPCE/CNFs) for the direct determination of low (real) concentrations of paracetamol (PA) in environmental water samples. By applying this sensor together with DPAdSV, two linear PA concentration ranges from 2.0×10−9 to 5.0×10−8 mol L−1 (r=0.9991) and 1.0×10−7–2.0×10−6 mol L−1 ( r=0.9994) were obtained. For the accumulation time of 90 s, the limit of detection was 5.4×10−10 mol L−1. Moreover, the SPCE/CNFs sensor and the DPADSV procedure for PA determination are potentially applicable in field analysis. The process of PA adsorption at the SPCE/CNFs surface was investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and theoretical studies. In the theoretical study of the interaction of CNF and PA, the first species was modelled by graphene‐like clusters containing up to 37 rings. It was found that the preferable orientation of PA is parallel to the carbon surface with the binding energy of about −68 kJ/mol calculated by symmetry‐adapted perturbation theory (SAPT). Both the selectivity and the accuracy of the developed sensor for real sample analysis were also investigated using Polish river and sea samples.
Effect of fermentation and postcooking procedure on quality parameters and volatile compounds of beef jerky
Authors: Luo Yulong , Zhao Lihua , Xu Junqiang , Su Lin , Jin Zhimin , Su Rina , Jin Ye
Published: April 2020

In this study, jerky samples were prepared from seasoned beef with and without the addition of starter culture. They were then dried or fried and analyzed to identify the quality parameters and volatile flavor compounds. Samples (starter and control) were divided into drying (inoculated‐drying, I‐D; noninoculated‐drying, N‐D) and frying (inoculated‐frying, I‐F; noninoculated‐frying, N‐F) groups. Water activity (aw), lightness (L*), and redness (a*) values were significantly affected (p < .001) by the postcooking procedures (drying or frying). Hardness, chewiness, and resilience were significantly lower in the dried groups than in the fried groups (p < .05). The formation of volatile compounds was affected by cooking treatment, with the highest levels observed in the I‐F group. After frying, the most abundant flavor compounds in the I‐D and N‐D groups were terpenes and sulfur‐containing compounds, followed by aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and alcohols. The most common compounds among all groups were acetoin, D‐limonene, anethole, styrene, and tetramethylpyrazine. Overall, the jerky in the I‐F group had the best color and tenderness scores among all groups.
Analyzing situational awareness through public opinion to predict adoption of social distancing amid pandemic COVID‐19
Authors: Qazi Atika , Qazi Javaria , Naseer Khulla , Zeeshan Muhammad , Hardaker Glenn , Maitama Jaafar Zubairu , Haruna Khalid
Published: April 2020

COVID‐19 pandemic has affected over 100 countries in a matter of weeks. People's response toward social distancing in the emerging pandemic is uncertain. In this study, we evaluated the influence of information (formal and informal) sources on situational awareness of the public for adopting health‐protective behaviors such as social distancing. For this purpose, a questionnaire‐based survey was conducted. The hypothesis proposed suggests that adoption of social distancing practices is an outcome of situational awareness which is achieved by the information sources. Results suggest that information sources, formal (P = .001) and informal (P = 0.007) were found to be significantly related to perceived understanding. Findings also indicate that social distancing is significantly influenced by situational awareness, P = .000. It can, therefore, be concluded that an increase in situational awareness in times of public health crisis using formal information sources can significantly increase the adoption of protective health behavior and in turn contain the spread of infectious diseases.
Effects of gibberellic acid (GA3) application before anthesis on rachis elongation and berry quality and aroma and flavour compounds inVitis viniferaL. ‘Cabernet Franc’and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ grapes
Authors: Gao Xiao‐Tong , Wu Ming‐Hui , Sun Dan , Li Hui‐Qing , Chen Wei‐Kai , Yang Hang‐Yu , Liu Fan‐Qi , Wang Qiu‐Chen , Wang Yu‐Ya , Wang Jun , He Fei
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Gibberellic acid (GA3), a plant‐growth regulator, is often used to obtain enlarged table grape berries and induce seedlessness in them. However, the effects of GA3on rachis elongation and bunch compactness have seldom been reported in wine‐grape production. We assessed the effects of GA3spraying on wine‐grape inflorescences and bunches and their practical implications for viticulture in the Jiaodong Peninsula, China.

RESULTS

Various GA3concentrations were sprayed on field‐grownVitis viniferaL. ‘Cabernet Franc’ (CF) and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ (CS) grapevines before anthesis in the Jiaodong Peninsula, China, in 2015 and 2016. Inflorescence length during berry development was measured, and flavonoids and aroma compounds in the fruit were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), respectively. For both cultivars, 50 and 100 mg L−1GA3caused significant elongation of the rachis, whereas there was no significant effect on inflorescence growth and berry seed number. Anthocyanin, flavonol, and flavan‐3‐ol levels in mature berries were not significantly influenced by GA3spraying, whereas C13‐norisoprenoids were modified.

CONCLUSION

The application of 50‐100 mg L−1GA3prior to grapevine anthesis caused elongation of inflorescences and bunches, and eased cluster compactness in CF and CS, and no negative effects were observed on the yield and seed numbers. The concentration and composition of flavonoids and most aroma compounds were not influenced, except that the norisoprenoids were increased by 50 mg L−1GA3applications. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry