bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epitaxial Core‐Shell Oxide Nanoparticles: First‐Principles Evidence for Increased Activity and Stability of Rutile Catalysts for Acidic Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Lee Yonghyuk , Scheurer Christoph , Reuter Karsten
Published: March 2022

Due to their high activity and favorable stability in acidic electrolytes, Ir and Ru oxides are primary catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in proton‐exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. For a future large‐scale application, core‐shell nanoparticles are an appealing route to minimize the demand for these precious oxides. Here, we employ first‐principles density‐functional theory (DFT) and ab initio thermodynamics to assess the feasibility of encapsulating a cheap rutile‐structured TiO2 core with coherent, monolayer‐thin IrO2 or RuO2 films. Resulting from a strong directional dependence of adhesion and strain, a wetting tendency is only obtained for some low‐index facets under typical gas‐phase synthesis conditions. Thermodynamic stability in particular of lattice‐matched RuO2 films is instead indicated for more oxidizing conditions. Intriguingly, the calculations also predict an enhanced activity and stability of such epitaxial RuO2/TiO2 core‐shell particles under OER operation.
Build the campus of the future with net‐zero energy emissions construction
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2022

The first net‐zero sustainable building in the entire University of Colorado system will be a renovated building housing campus safety and emergency management at the Colorado University, Anschutz Medical Campus.
Restricting faculty members’ expert testimony invites legal challenges
Authors: Porter Michael
Published: March 2022

A hallmark of higher education is faculty members’ remarkable expertise in their chosen fields. Most institutions rely on their faculty members’ reputation to attract students, research and grant funding, and other reputable faculty.
Phloem water isotopically different to xylem water: Potential causes and implications for ecohydrological tracing
Authors: Nehemy Magali F. , Benettin Paolo , Allen Scott T. , Steppe Kathy , Rinaldo Andrea , Lehmann Marco M. , McDonnell Jeffrey J.
Published: March 2022

The stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen in xylem water are often used to investigate tree water sources. But this traditional approach does not acknowledge the contribution of water stored in the phloem to transpiration and how this may affect xylem water and source water interpretations. Additionally, there is a prevailing assumption that there is no isotope fractionation during tree water transport. Here, we systematically sampled xylem and phloem water at daily and subdaily resolutions in a large lysimeter planted with Salix viminalis. Stem diurnal change in phloem water storage and transpiration rates were also measured. Our results show that phloem water is significantly less enriched in heavy isotopes than xylem water. At subdaily resolution, we observed a larger isotopic difference between xylem and phloem during phloem water refilling and under periods of tree water deficit. These findings contrast with the expectation of heavy‐isotope enriched water in phloem due to downward transport of enriched leaf water isotopic signatures. Because of previous evidence of aquaporin mediated phloem and xylem water transport and higher osmotic permeability of lighter hydrogen isotopologues across aquaporins, we propose that radial water transport across the xylem–phloem boundary may drive the relative depletion of heavy isotopes in phloem and their relative enrichment in xylem.
Satellite observed vegetation dynamics and drivers in the Namib sand sea over the recent 20 years
Authors: Qiao Na , Wang Lixin
Published: March 2022

Monitoring dryland vegetation trends and examining the drivers are of great importance to understand the dryland vegetation response to future climate changes. Recent findings through satellite data indicate that vegetation greenness has increased in several regions worldwide. These greening patterns are driven by human activities or combined human activities and environmental factors. However, the analyses of greenness trend for regions without direct human activities and shrub expansion in drylands are still lacking. To this end, this study investigates the vegetation trend across the Namib sand sea over March 2000 to December 2018 using monthly Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and examines several potential drivers including precipitation, temperature and atmospheric CO2 concentration. For the NDVI time series across the whole study region, a significant greening trend was found over March 2000 to September 2012 based on Mann–Kendall test but not over the whole study period. Structural equation modelling results indicated that precipitation and CO2 were the dominant drivers of greening. Temperature showed negative effects on vegetation greenness, indicating warming would reduce plant growth in the study region. Spatially, 75% of the region showed statistically significant greening over March 2000 to September 2012 and 39.30% for March 2000 to December 2018. The different vegetation trend results between the entire region and the pixel scale implied that location‐specific greening could be masked by an overall trend. Our study suggested that precipitation (especially the large episodic precipitation events) and CO2 are dominant drivers of the observed greening in the Namib. Our findings fill an important knowledge gap of vegetation dynamics in regions without direct human activities.
Outcomes in heart failure patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities with delirium
Authors: Lafo Jacob , Singh Mriganka , Jiang Lan , Correia Stephen , Madrigal Caroline , Clements Rachel , Wu Wen‐Chih , Erqou Sebhat , Rudolph James L.
Published: March 2022

Aim

Heart failure (HF) outcomes are disproportionately worse in patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNF) as opposed to home. We hypothesized that dementia and delirium were key factors influencing these differences. Our aim was to explore the associations of dementia and delirium with risk of hospital readmission and mortality in HF patients discharged to SNF.

Methods and results

The study population included Veterans hospitalized for a primary diagnosis of HF and discharged to SNFs between 2010 and 2015. Pre‐existing dementia was identified based on International Classification of Diseases‐9 codes. Delirium was determined using the Minimum Data Set 3.0 Confusion Assessment Method algorithm. Proportional hazard regression analyses were used to model outcomes and were adjusted for covariates of interest. Patients (n = 21 655) were older (77.0 ± 10.5 years) and predominantly male (96.9%). Four groups were created according to presence (+) or absence (−) of dementia and delirium. Relative to the dementia−/delirium− group, the dementia−/delirium+ group was associated with increased 30 day mortality [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 2.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.7, 3.0] and 365 day mortality (adjusted HR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.3, 1.7). Readmission was highest in the dementia−/delirium+ group after 30 days (HR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.0, 1.5). In the group with dementia (delirium−/dementia+), 30 day mortality (12.8%; HR = 0.7, 95% CI = 0.7, 0.8) and readmissions (5.3%; HR = 1.0, 95% CI = 0.8, 1.1) were not different relative to the reference group.

Conclusions

Delirium, independent of pre‐existing dementia, confers increased risk of hospital readmission and mortality in HF patients discharged to SNFs. Managing HF after hospitalization is a complex cognitive task and an increased focus on mental status in the acute care setting prior to discharge is needed to improve HF management and transitional care, mitigate adverse outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs.
Dronedarone for the treatment of atrial fibrillation with concomitant heart failure with preserved and mildly reduced ejection fraction: apost‐hocanalysis of theATHENAtrial
Authors: Vaduganathan Muthiah , Piccini Jonathan P. , Camm A. John , Crijns Harry J.G.M. , Anker Stefan D. , Butler Javed , Stewart John , Braceras Rogelio , Albuquerque Alessandro P.A. , Wieloch Mattias , Hohnloser Stefan H.
Published: March 2022

Aims

Limited therapeutic options are available for the management of atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF/AFL) with concomitant heart failure (HF) with preserved (HFpEF) and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF). Dronedarone reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with AF, but sparse data are available examining its role in patients with AF complicated by HFpEF and HFmrEF.

Methods and results

ATHENA was an international, multicentre trial that randomized 4628 patients with paroxysmal or persistent AF/AFL and cardiovascular risk factors to dronedarone 400 mg twice daily versus placebo. We evaluated patients with (i) symptomatic HFpEF and HFmrEF (defined as left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] >40%, evidence of structural heart disease, and New York Heart Association class II/III or diuretic use), (ii) HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) or left ventricular dysfunction (LVEF ≤40%), and (iii) those without HF. We assessed effects of dronedarone versus placebo on death or cardiovascular hospitalization (primary endpoint), other key efficacy endpoints, and safety. Overall, 534 (12%) had HFpEF or HFmrEF, 422 (9%) had HFrEF or left ventricular dysfunction, and 3672 (79%) did not have HF. Patients with HFpEF and HFmrEF had a mean age of 73 ± 9 years, 37% were women, and had a mean LVEF of 57 ± 9%. Over a mean follow‐up of 21 ± 5 months, dronedarone consistently reduced risk of death or cardiovascular hospitalization (hazard ratio 0.76; 95% confidence interval 0.69–0.84) without heterogeneity based on HF status (pinteraction >0.10). This risk reduction in the primary endpoint was consistent across the range of LVEF (as a continuous function) in HF without heterogeneity (pinteraction = 0.71). Rates of death, cardiovascular hospitalization, and HF hospitalization each directionally favoured dronedarone versus placebo in HFpEF and HFmrEF, but these treatment effects were not statistically significant in this subgroup.

Conclusions

Dronedarone is associated with reduced cardiovascular events in patients with paroxysmal or persistent AF/AFL and HF across the spectrum of LVEF, including among those with HFpEF and HFmrEF. These data support a rationale for a future dedicated and powered clinical trial to affirm the net clinical benefit of dronedarone in this population.
Suitability of Carbazolyl Hauser and Turbo‐Hauser Bases as Magnesium‐Based Electrolytes
Authors: Schüler Philipp , Sengupta Simon , Zaubitzer Steve , Fiesinger Florian , Dongmo Saustin , Görls Helmar , Wohlfahrt‐Mehrens Margret , van den Borg Matthias , Gaissmaier Daniel , Krieck Sven , Marinaro Mario , Jacob Timo , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: March 2022

Lithium‐ion batteries pose certain drawbacks and alternatives are highly demanded. Requirements such as low corrosiveness, electrochemical stability and suitable electrolytes can be met by magnesium‐ion batteries. Metalation of carbazole with Mg in THF in the presence of ethyl bromide yields the sparingly soluble Hauser base [(thf)3Mg(Carb)Br] (1) which shows a Schlenk‐type equilibrium with formation of [(thf)3Mg(Carb)2] and [(thf)4MgBr2]. A THF solution of 1 shows a low over‐potential and a good cyclability of electrodeposition/‐stripping of Mg on a Cu current collector. An improved performance is achieved with the turbo‐Hauser bases [(thf)(Carb)Mg(μ‐Br/X)2Li(thf)2] (X=Br (2) and Cl (3)) which show a significantly higher solubility in ethereal solvents. The THF solvation energies increase from (thf)xMgBr2 over (thf)xMg(Carb)Br to (thf)xMg(Carb)2 for an equal number x of ligated THF molecules.
Formation, Chemical and Optical Properties of 1,2,5‐Triphenylpentadienyl Cation Fixed in a Rigid Dibenzobarrelene Skeleton
Authors: Ishii Akihiko , Ebina Ryota , Nakata Norio
Published: March 2022

1,2,5‐Triphenylpentadienyl cation fused with a dibenzobarrelene skeleton was synthesized. The pentadienyl cation was persistent in the solution and characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies. The cation abstracts a hydride from Et2O at the 5‐position to give the 5‐H derivative together with acetaldehyde and ethene. The reaction with H2O provided the 5‐OH derivative and not the 1‐OH precursor. The hydride reduction of the pentadienyl cation with silanes or NaBH4 occurred at the 3‐ and 5‐positions, and the ratio was dependent on the bulkiness of reducing reagents. The cation in dichloromethane exhibited long‐wavelength absorptions at 678, 523, and 443 nm and an emission maximum at 729 nm with the emission quantum yield of 0.175, which are longer and larger than those of the referenced 1,5‐diphenylpentadienyl cation. TD‐DFT calculations show that the absorptions are due to the π‐π* excitations on 1,2,5‐triphenylpentadienyl and dibenzobarrelene benzene rings.
Comparing Halogen Atom Abstraction Kinetics for Mn(I), Fe(I), Co(I), and Ni(I) Complexes by Combining Electroanalytical and Statistical Modeling
Authors: Tang Tianhua , Friede Nathan C. , Minteer Shelley D. , Sigman Matthew S.
Published: March 2022

First‐row transition metal complexes have garnered attention due to their ability to activate aliphatic halides for catalytic cross‐coupling reactions. However, mechanistic investigation of these systems is challenging as a consequence of difficulties associated with preparing the relevant metal complexes and the resultant poor stability of such intermediates for subsequent analytical interrogation. In this context, we have developed a platform to rapidly measure kinetic data using electroanalytical methods, which facilitates a wide range of physical organic studies. As a result, we have investigated and compared the reaction of benzyllic halides with electrogenerated MnI(PyBox)Cl, FeI(Pyrox)OTf, CoI(Pyrox)Br, CoI(PyBox)Br, NiI(Phox)Br complexes. The experimental results support a unified inner‐sphere halogen atom abstraction mechanism for these different complexes while also providing the ability to directly compare through multivariate linear regression analyses the subtle differences imparted by metal/ligand combinations. The information gleaned by this study has implications why certain metal complexes are matched to oxidative addition processes relevant in catalytic processes.
Oxidative Cyclization of 4‐(2‐Mercaptophenyl)‐Substituted 4H‐1,2,4‐Triazolium Species to Tricyclic Benzothiazolium Salts
Authors: Ardón‐Muñoz Luis G. , Bolliger Jeanne L.
Published: March 2022

Herein we report a generally applicable method for the preparation of N‐substituted benzo[4,5]thiazolo[2,3‐c][1,2,4]triazol‐1‐ium salts from air stable precursors. This transformation features selective deprotection of a para‐methoxybenzyl protected thiol followed by C−H functionalization of the linked 1,2,4‐triazolium salts under oxidative conditions. Using this procedure, we synthesized a variety of tricyclic thiazolium salts which contain both electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating aromatic substituents as well as aliphatic substituents. Our approach also tolerates many functional groups including alkynes, alcohols, diols, amides, and polyethers.
Sensitive Electrochemical Determination of Baicalein Based on D‐Ti3C2Tx MXene/Fullerene Composite Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Kong Bo , Yang Xiang , Dai Huiqian , Wu Yu , Lu Hong‐Bing , Liu Wei , Liu Xiaoying
Published: March 2022

In this work, an electrochemical sensor was developed based on the delaminated titanium carbide nanosheet (d‐Ti3C2Tx) and fullerene (C60) composite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The composite materials d‐Ti3C2Tx/C60 were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The prepared modified electrode (d‐Ti3C2Tx/C60/GCE) exhibited commendable electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of baicalein. Under the optimum detection conditions, the detection of baicalin showed a wide linear range of 0.015–4.0 μM with a detection limit of 0.005 μM. In addition, the d‐Ti3C2Tx/C60/GCE showed good reproducibility, stability and anti‐interference. It was also successfully used for the determination of baicalin in the commercially available Shuanghuanglian oral liquid with satisfactory results.
On the Counter‐intuitive Heterogeneous Electron Transfer Barrier Properties of Alkanethiolate Monolayers on Gold: Smooth versus Rough Surfaces
Authors: Green John‐Bruce D. , Clarke Eamonn , Porter Marc D. , McDermott Christie A. , McDermott Mark T. , Zhong Chuan‐Jian , Bergren Adam Johan
Published: March 2022

Alkanethiolate monolayers formed on rough gold surfaces can, somewhat surprisingly, act as stronger barriers to heterogeneous electron transfer than those on smooth gold surfaces. This paper presents a possible explanation for this observation by constructing simple geometric models of a “rough” and “smooth” gold surface to examine how microscopic roughness differences can affect the nucleation/growth of the adlayer and size/density of structural defects. Expectedly, the number of defects predicted for adlayers formed on smooth gold is lower than any of those for rough gold. The counter‐intuitive result is that the sizes of a small portion of the defects in the adlayer on the smooth surface are larger than any of those found on the rough surface. The potential implications of these results are discussed.
Electrochemical Detection of Glucose and Lactate Dehydrogenase Using a Zwitterionic Phenazine Compound as an Electron Mediator for NADH Oxidation
Authors: Lee Kyuseok , Song Gyeoungsun , Kwon Jungwook , Kim Jihyeon , Yang Haesik
Published: March 2022

Phenazine compounds have been used as simple organic catalysts for the rapid oxidation of NADH. Although positively charged phenazine compounds are highly water‐soluble, their uncharged, reduced forms are not. We report the use of a zwitterionic phenazine compound, 3‐(1‐methoxyphenazin‐5‐ium‐5‐yl)propane‐1‐sulfonate (mPPS), as an organic catalyst and electron mediator for the electrochemical oxidation of NADH and detection of glucose and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). mPPS is highly stable in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4). Furthermore, the negatively charged, reduced form of mPPS is highly water‐soluble. The detection limits of glucose and LDH in artificial serum were approximately 0.02 mM and 2 ng/mL, respectively.
Reaffirmation: The critical partner to a resolution
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: March 2022

While 2020 and 2021 were incredibly difficult in many ways, I look back at 2021 with a particular amount of pride for a rather important personal achievement.
Focus on affordability, student support leads to enrollment growth
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2022

A few years ago, members of the board asked Ryan Smith, President of the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College in Ohio, what his biggest worry was. He told them he was concerned the institution would run out of space in the residence halls. At the time, Rio Grande had about 180 residents and capacity for 500 to live on campus.
Preparation and performance evaluation of hybrid polymer flocculants (PAC‐PAM), and comparison experiments with other flocculants
Authors: Yao Bin , Zhao Deyin , Guo Ji , Yan Chaozong , Zheng Cunchuan
Published: March 2022

Using the initiator system of potassium persulfate, a new PAC‐PAM organic–inorganic hybrid flocculant was synthesized. This flocculant is used in sewage disposal. When the dosage was 10 mg/L and initial turbidity was 160 NTU, the turbidity removal rate of the heterogeneous flocculant reached the highest point of 95.04%, the water treatment effect of the hybrid flocculant is higher than that of other flocculants. The optimal experimental conditions in this experiment were as follows: the ratio of AM monomer to PAC was 8:2, the mass fraction of the added initiator was 0.2 wt%, the reaction temperature was 50°C, the reaction time was 4 h, and the pH of the effluent was neutral or weakly basic. Under the same dosage and different initial turbidity, the turbidity removal effect of hybrid flocculant is better than compound flocculant and PAM or PAC. The results show that the hybrid flocculant is a new material, which is different from the compound flocculant. Moreover, the hybrid flocculant is almost non‐corrosive to the equipment and has the prospect of industrial application.
Pulse‐period – moment‐magnitude relations derived with wavelet analysis and their relevance to estimate structural deformations
Authors: Efthymiou Eleftheria , Makris Nicos
Published: March 2022

Motivated from the quadratic dependence of peak structural displacements to the pulse period, , of pulse‐like ground motions, this paper revisits the pulse‐period – moment‐magnitude (–) relations of ground motions generated from recorded near‐source ground motions with epicentral distances, 20 km. A total of 1260 ground motions are interrogated with wavelet analysis to identify energetic acceleration pulses (not velocity pulses) and extract their optimal period, , amplitude, , phase, and number of half‐cycles, . The interrogation of acceleration records with wavelet analysis is capable of extracting shorter‐duration distinguishable pulses with engineering significance, which override the longer near‐source pulses and they are not necessarily of random character. Our wavelet analysis identified 109 pulse‐like records from normal faults, 188 pulse‐like records from reverse faults and 125 pulse‐like records from strike‐slip faults, all with epicentral distances 20 km. Regression analysis on the extracted data concluded that the same – relation can be used for pulse‐like ground motions generated either from strike‐slip faults or from dip‐slip normal faults; whereas, a different – relation is proposed for dip‐slip reverse faults. The study concludes that for the same moment magnitude, , the pulse periods of ground motions generated from strike‐slip faults are on average larger than these from reverse faults — a result that is in agreement with findings from past investigations. Most importantly, our wavelet analysis on acceleration records produces – relations with a slope that is lower than the slopes of the – relations presented by past investigators after merely fitting velocity pulses. As a result, our proposed – relations yield lower values for larger‐magnitude earthquakes (say 6), allowing for the estimation of dependable peak structural displacements that scale invariably with .
Zum Erdruhedruckbeiwert nach Jáky
Authors: Hettler Achim , Vrettos Christos
Published: March 2022

Zur Berechnung des Erdruhedruckbeiwerts hat sich für horizontales Gelände unter Bodeneigengewicht und ohne Vorbelastung die empirische Näherungsformel nach Jáky durchgesetzt. In einer neueren Arbeit stellt Goldscheider auf Grundlage von theoretischen Untersuchungen und hochgenauen Quaderverformungsversuchen an Sand mit proportionalen Spannungs‐ und Verformungspfaden fest, dass der Vorschlag von Jáky durchgängig zu kleine Werte liefert. Es stellt sich die Frage nach den Auswirkungen auf die Nachweise der Standsicherheit und der Gebrauchstauglichkeit. Im Beitrag wird über die Ergebnisse der Diskussionen im Arbeitskreis „Baugruben“ sowie in dem für die DIN 4085 zuständigen Ausschuss berichtet und ein eigener Ansatz vorgestellt, der die Ergebnisse von Goldscheider genauer wiedergibt als der Ansatz nach Jáky.
Generation of Cyclopentadiene for Diels–Alder Reactions by Visible‐Light Irradiation of Iron Sandwich Complexes
Authors: Sokolov Alexey S. , Polezhaev Alexander V. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Perekalin Dmitry S.
Published: March 2022

Cyclopentadienes readily undergo fast and selective Diels–Alder reactions which can be used for conjugation of biomolecules and polymers. Herein we present a new method for the photochemical generation of cyclopentadienes by the visible light irradiation of the iron complexes [(C5H4R)Fe(arene)]+. This reaction proceeds at room temperature, in water, and in the presence of potentially interfering amino acids. Free cyclopentadiene is trapped by dienophiles to give the corresponding Diels–Alder adducts in 72–95 % yield.
iNAP: An integrated network analysis pipeline for microbiome studies
Authors: Feng Kai , Peng Xi , Zhang Zheng , Gu Songsong , He Qing , Shen Wenli , Wang Zhujun , Wang Danrui , Hu Qiulong , Li Yan , Wang Shang , Deng Ye
Published: March 2022

Integrated network analysis pipeline (iNAP) is an online analysis pipeline for generating and analyzing comprehensive ecological networks in microbiome studies. It is implemented in two sections, that is, network construction and network analysis, and integrates many open‐access tools. Network construction contains multiple feasible alternatives, including correlation‐based approaches (Pearson's correlation and Spearman's rank correlation along with random matrix theory, and sparse correlations for compositional data) and conditional dependence‐based methods (extended local similarity analysis and sparse inverse covariance estimation for ecological association inference), while network analysis provides topological structures at different levels and the potential effects of environmental factors on network structures. Considering the full workflow, from microbiome data set to network result, iNAP contains the molecular ecological network analysis pipeline and interdomain ecological network analysis pipeline (IDENAP), which correspond to the intradomain and interdomain associations of microbial species at multiple taxonomic levels. Here, we describe the detailed workflow by taking IDENAP as an example and show the comprehensive steps to assist researchers to conduct the relevant analyses using their own data sets. Afterwards, some auxiliary tools facilitating the pipeline are introduced to effectively aid in the switch from local analysis to online operations. Therefore, iNAP, as an easy‐to‐use platform that provides multiple network‐associated tools and approaches, can enable researchers to better understand the organization of microbial communities. iNAP is available at http://mem.rcees.ac.cn:8081 with free registration.
Thrombospondins in human aortic aneurysms
Authors: Plana Emma , Oto Julia , Medina Pilar , Herranz Raquel , Fernández‐Pardo Álvaro , Requejo Lucia , Miralles Manuel
Published: March 2022

Thrombospondins are a family of matricellular proteins with a multimeric structure that is known to be involved in several biological and pathological processes. Their relationship with vascular disorders has raised special interest recently. Aortic aneurysms are related to the impairment of vascular remodeling, in which extracellular matrix proteins seem to play an important role. Thus, research in thrombospondins, and their potential role in aneurysm development is progressively gaining importance. Nevertheless, studies showing thrombospondin dysregulation in human samples are still scarce. Although studies performed in vitro and in vivo models are essential to understand the molecular mechanisms and pathways underlying the disorder, descriptive studies in human samples are also necessary to ascertain their real value as biomarkers and/or novel therapeutic targets. The present article reviews the latest findings regarding the role of thrombospondins in aortic aneurysm development, paying particular attention to the studies performed in human samples.
A polyurethane‐based surgical adhesive for sealing blood vessel anastomoses—A feasibility study in pigs
Authors: Schulten Lisanne , Spillner Jan , Kanzler Stephanie , Teubner Andreas , Jockenhoevel Stefan , Apel Christian
Published: March 2022

Peri‐ and postoperative anastomotic leakage from blood vessel anastomosis is a common and potentially life‐threatening complication. As an adjunctive therapy providing an additional layer of safety, a new biodegradable, polyurethane‐based adhesive was developed. It consists of two components: an isocyanate‐functionalized prepolymer and an amino‐based curing agent. The adhesive was investigated in a porcine animal model to seal sutured blood vessel anastomoses of arteries, veins, aortas and prosthetic aortic graft replacements. The material‐determined properties of the adhesive like viscosity, processing and polymerization time as well as bonding strength were well suited for this application. The adhesive stopped perioperative suture‐line bleedings and stayed on all anastomoses until sacrifice. Hematological and serological inflammation marker assessments were unobtrusive. The histological evaluation showed a mild to moderate local tissue reaction to the adhesive constituting a physiological, non‐adverse tissue‐biomaterial interaction. The adhesive did not interfere with vascular wound healing. The adhesive demonstrated to be suitable to improve the outcome of cardiovascular surgeries by securing the classical sutured anastomoses in a fast, easy and safe manner. However, further studies are required to quantitatively evaluate efficacy in terms of anastomotic leakage prevention as well as long‐term tissue compatibility and degradation.
miR‐200a‐3p promoted cell proliferation and metastasis by downregulating SOX17 in non‐small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Wu Xu , Liu Haijun , Zhang Mingkang , Ma Jinzhu , Qi Shimei , Tan Qiuyu , Jiang Yuxin , Hong Yeting , Yan Liang
Published: March 2022

Lung cancer has high mortality and incidence rates in which non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the primary type of lung cancer that accounts for about 80%–85% of total patients. It has been demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are critical in the incidence and progression of tumors, while the role and inner mechanism of miR‐200a‐3p, one type of essential miRNAs, in NSCLC have yet to be revealed. Herein, we investigated the in vitro and vivo pro‐/antiproliferative influence of miR‐200a‐3p on NSCLC cells and utilized bioinformatic programs to further predict the SOX17 gene as miR‐200a‐3p's potential target. A double luciferase reporter gene experiment was performed to confirm that miR‐200a‐3p interacts with the SOX17 3ʹ‐UTR region specifically. On the basis of the results of Western blot and quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), miR‐200a‐3p impacted the posttranscriptional levels of SOX17 rather than influencing its mRNA expression. In the end, we found that overexpressed SOX17 can reverse miR‐200a‐3p's impact on NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis. Therefore, this study demonstrated that miR‐200a‐3p influences NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis by modulating the levels of SOX17.
KLF8 is activated by TGF‐β1 via Smad2 and contributes to ovarian cancer progression
Authors: Cherukunnath Aparna , Davargaon Ravichandra S. , Ashraf Rahail , Kamdar Urja , Srivastava Amit K. , Tripathi Prem P. , Chatterjee Nabanita , Kumar Sanjay
Published: March 2022

Krüppel‐like factor 8 (KLF8) is a transcription factor expressed abnormally in various cancer types and promotes oncogenic transformation. However, the role of KLF8 in ovarian cancer (OC) progression remains unclear. This study reports that transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1)/Smad2/KLF8 axis regulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and contributes to OC progression. We analyzed the KLF8 expression in OC cells and tissues, wherein a significant overexpression of KLF8 was observed. Increased KLF8 expressions were correlated with higher cell proliferation, EMT, migration, and invasion and conferred poor clinical outcomes in OC patients. Overexpressed KLF8 increases F‐actin polymerization and induces cytoskeleton remodeling of OC cells. Furthermore, a dissection of the molecular mechanism defined that TGF‐β1 triggers KLF8 through the Smad2 pathway and regulates EMT. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of Smad2 followed by TGF‐β1 treatment failed to activate KLF8 expression and induction of EMT. Using promoter‐luciferase reporter assays, we defined that upon TGF‐β1 activation, phosphorylated Smad2 binds and promotes the KLF8 promoter activity, and knockdown of Smad2 inhibits KLF8 promoter activation. Together, these results demonstrate that TGF‐β1 activates KLF8 expression by the Smad2 pathway, and KLF8 contributes to OC progression and may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating OC patients.
The Emotion Regulation Goals Scale: Advancing its psychometric properties using item response theory analysis
Authors: Brandão Tânia , Brites Rute , Hipólito João , Nunes Odete
Published: March 2022

Objective

Emotion goals are considered paramount for influencing the initiation, maintenance, and cessation of emotion regulation. Recently, some authors developed an instrument to assess emotion goals—the Emotion Regulation Goals Scale (ERGS).

Method

This study included two studies aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the ERGS in two Portuguese samples: 400 adults from the community (76% women; M age = 37.10) (Study 1) and 205 university students (80% women; M age = 21.72) (Study 2).

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) analysis were used to examine the psychometric properties of the ERGS in the two samples. The CFA confirmed the five‐factor structure of the 18‐item ERGS, but the analyses of both studies suggested the elimination of two items given their lower loadings/low discrimination.

Conclusions

A five‐factor structure with 16 items was proposed, with good reliability and with evidence of construct validity with relevant constructs.
Rhamnella gilgitica functionalized green synthesis of ZnONPs and their multiple therapeutic properties
Authors: Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Iqbal Javed , Israr Muhammad , Yaseen Tabassum , Zahra Syeda Anber , Shahbaz Amir , Rahdar Abbas , Raouf Blqees , Khan Shahid Ullah , Kanwal Sobia , Mahmood Tariq
Published: March 2022

In the recent years, green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) using plant extracts and phytochemicals has gained significant attention. In present research study, facile, green, and tunable ZnONPs were biosynthesized from Rhamnella gilgitica leaf aqueous extract as a strong reducing and stabilizing agents. The prepared ZnONPs@Rhamnella were characterized and validated using common nanotechnology techniques (UV–Vis, XRD, EDX, FT‐IR, SEM, TEM, DLS, and Raman) and revealed spherical morphology with particle size ~21 nm. The asynthesized ZnONPs were further evaluated for different biological applications. Strong antimicrobial efficacies were reported for ZnONPs using disc‐diffusion method and were capable of rendering significant antimicrobial potential. ZnONPs were evaluated against HepG2 (IC50: 18.40 μg/ml) and HUH7 (IC50: 20.59 μg/ml) cancer cell lines and revealed strong anticancer properties. Dose‐dependent MTT cytotoxicity assay was confirmed using Leishmania tropica “KWH23 strain” (promastigote: IC50: 26.78 μg/ml and amastigote: IC50: 29.57 μg/ml). Antioxidant activities (DPPH: 93.36%, TAC: 72.43%) were performed to evaluate their antioxidant potentials. Further, protein kinase and α‐amylase inhibition assays were determined. Biocompatibility assays were done using human RBCs and macrophages thus revealed biosafe and non‐toxic nature of ZnONPs@Rhamnella. In current experiment, we concluded that greenly orchestrated ZnONPs is an attractive, non‐toxic and ecofriendly candidate and showed potential biological activities. In future, different clinical trials and in vivo studies are necessary for the confirmation of these remedial properties of ZnONPs using different animal models.

Research Highlights

Greenly orchestrated ZnONPs were synthesized using Rhamnella gilgitica leaves broth.

Analytical techniques such as UV, SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, DLS, and Raman confirmed synthesis of ZnONPs.

Green ZnONPs determined strong antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and antioxidant potentials.

Significant enzyme inhibition and biocompatibility assays were investigated.
Efficacy and safety of favipiravir plus interferon‐beta versus lopinavir/ritonavir plus interferon‐beta in moderately ill patients with COVID‐19: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Hassaniazad Mehdi , Farshidi Hossein , Gharibzadeh Abdollah , Bazram Ali , Khalili Elham , Noormandi Afsaneh , Fathalipour Mohammad
Published: March 2022

Favipiravir (FVP), lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/RTV), and interferon‐beta (INF‐beta) are considered as potential treatments for COVID‐19. We examined the efficacy and safety of FVP and INF‐beta compared to LPV/RTV and INF‐beta combinations for the treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2. It was a single‐center randomized clinical trial. Eligible patients were randomized to receive FVP plus INF‐beta versus LPV/RTV plus INF‐beta. The primary endpoint was the viral clearance after seven days of randomization. ICU admission, length of stay (LOS) in hospital, in‐hospital mortality, and the incidence of adverse events were also measured. This trial was registered on the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20200506047323N3). Patients were randomly allocated to the FVP (n = 33) and LPV/RTV (n = 33) groups. The viral clearance on Day seven was not significantly different between the FVP (31.1%) and the LPV/RTV groups (16.1%). The rate of ICU admission and likewise the in‐hospital mortality in the FVP group (12.5% and 6.3%, respectively) were similar to the LPV/RTV groups (19.4% and 19.4%, respectively). The median LOS in the hospital was also not different (6.8 days [interquartile range; IQR = 5.0–11.0] in the FVP and (8.0 days [IQR = 5.5–12.5]) in LPV/RTV groups (p = 0.140). Adverse events were observed in 25.0% of FVP and 32.3% of LPV/RTV groups. The combination therapy with FVP did not exert a higher efficacy compared to the combination regimen of LPV/RTV. However, both treatment regimens demonstrated a mild profile of adverse events.
Clinical characteristics, neuroimaging findings, and neuropsychological functioning in attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder: Sex differences
Authors: Carucci Sara , Narducci Chiara , Bazzoni Marzia , Balia Carla , Donno Federica , Gagliano Antonella , Zuddas Alessandro
Published: March 2022

Recent clinical studies, in both children/adolescents and adults, have shown the extreme neuropsychological heterogeneity of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): specific neuropsychological deficits have been found only in a minority of individuals, with no direct correlation between discrete cognitive performances and the trajectory of clinical symptoms. Deficits in specific neuropsychological functions may be common in ADHD, but nevertheless no cognitive or neuropsychological profile may fully explain the disorder. Sex differences in the ADHD presentation, both at a neuropsychological and clinical level, also contribute to this clinical and neuropsychological heterogeneity. At a neuropsychological level, females with ADHD may show greater working memory problems, poorer vocabulary skills and worse visual spatial reasoning. Structural and functional imaging study also show discrete differences across sex; however, the great majority of clinical studies mainly or exclusively include male participants with insufficient data to draw firm conclusions on sex differences within the disorder. Here, we report the recent literature data, discussing still open research questions about the clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings, and neuropsychological functioning in ADHD with a focus on the impact of sex differences—a deeper insight in these unresolved issues may have relevant clinical and therapeutic implications for tailored, effective, and long‐lasting interventions.
Ring Homopolymers Prefer Crumpling into Odd‐Length Segments
Authors: Abou‐Jaoude Alexander , Goedde Christopher G. , Lichter Seth
Published: March 2022

By studying the collapse of a simple ring homopolymer devoid of solvent interactions and chemical heterogeneity, it is shown that segments with an odd number of low‐energy dihedral angles are unusually frequent. The prevalence of odd‐size segments is due to the greater decrease in end‐to‐end length as compared with crumpling to even‐size segments. These results suggest that the sizes of some conformational features of polymers may arise, not due to specific chemical interactions, but rather from generic characteristics of polymers.
In vivo and in silico screening for antimicrobial compounds from cyanobacteria
Authors: Strieth Dorina , Lenz Selina , Ulber Roland
Published: March 2022

Due to the emerging rise of multi‐drug resistant bacteria, the discovery of novel antibiotics is of high scientific interest. Through their high chemodiversity of bioactive secondary metabolites, cyanobacteria have proven to be promising microorganisms for the discovery of antibacterial compounds. These aspects make appropriate antibacterial screening approaches for cyanobacteria crucial. Up to date, screenings are mostly carried out using a phenotypic methodology, consisting of cyanobacterial cultivation, extraction, and inhibitory assays. However, the parameters of these methods highly vary within the literature. Therefore, the common choices of parameters and inhibitory assays are summarized in this review. Nevertheless, less frequently used method variants are highlighted, which lead to hits from antimicrobial compounds. In addition to the considerations of phenotypic methods, this study provides an overview of developments in the genome‐based screening area, be it in vivo using PCR technique or in silico using the recent genome‐mining method. Though, up to date, these techniques are not applied as much as phenotypic screening.
Microbial approaches for the assessment of toothpaste efficacy against oral species: A method comparison
Authors: Paqué Pune N. , Karygianni Lamprini , Kneubuehler Julien , Fiscalini Lorenzo , Wiedemeier Daniel B. , Müller Marcel , Attin Thomas , Thurnheer Thomas
Published: March 2022

Antibacterial properties of toothpastes enable chemical plaque control in limited‐access tooth regions that are mechanically not sufficiently reached by toothbrushes. Therefore, this study aimed to compare different microbial methods to assess antimicrobial toothpaste properties and evaluate different toothpastes in terms of their antibacterial efficacy against different oral microorganisms in an in vitro setting. Six toothpaste suspensions with varying antibacterial supplements were applied to a multispecies biofilm model (Actinomyces oris, Candida albicans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptococcus oralis, andStreptococcus mutans) as well as to each microorganism. A culture method was used to assess the anti‐biofilm effects and two different agar diffusion assays were performed for testing the antimicrobial effect on each microorganism. The measurements of the culture and diffusion analyses were statistically normalized and compared and toothpastes were ranked according to their antimicrobial efficacy. The results of both agar diffusion assays showed a high correlation across all tested species (Spearman correlation coefficientsρs > 0.95). The results of the multispecies biofilm model, however, substantially differed in its assessment of antibacterial properties (ρsranging from 0.22 to 0.87) compared to the results of both diffusion assays. Toothpastes with amine fluoride (with and without stannous fluoride), and toothpastes with triclosan resulted in the highest antimicrobial efficacy. Activated carbon supplements in toothpastes were comparable in their antimicrobial action to the negative control NaCl. The appropriate selection of a broad range of oral microorganisms seems crucial when testing the chemical impact of toothpaste and toothpaste supplements.
Genetically distant bacteriophages select for unique genomic changes in Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Johnson Cydney N. , Palacios Araya Dennise , Schink Viviane , Islam Moutusee , Mangalea Mihnea R. , Decurtis Emily K. , Ngo Tuong‐Vi C. , Palmer Kelli L. , Duerkop Breck A.
Published: March 2022

The human microbiota harbors diverse bacterial and bacteriophage (phage) communities. Bacteria evolve to overcome phage infection, thereby driving phage evolution to counter bacterial resistance. Understanding how phages select for genetic alterations in medically relevant bacteria is important as phages become established biologics for the treatment of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. Before phages can be widely used as standalone or combination antibacterial therapies, we must obtain a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms of phage infection and how host bacteria alter their genomes to become resistant. We performed coevolution experiments using a single Enterococcus faecalis strain and two distantly related phages to determine how phage pressure impacts the evolution of the E. faecalis genome. Whole‐genome sequencing of E. faecalis following continuous exposure to these two phages revealed mutations previously demonstrated to be essential for phage infection. We also identified mutations in genes previously unreported to be associated with phage infection in E. faecalis. Intriguingly, there was only one shared mutation in the E. faecalis genome that was selected by both phages tested, demonstrating that infection by two genetically distinct phages selects for diverse variants. This knowledge serves as the basis for the continued study of E. faecalis genome evolution during phage infection and can be used to inform the design of future therapeutics, such as phage cocktails, intended to target MDR E. faecalis.
Resin infusion process monitoring using graphene coated glass fabric sensors and infusible thermoplastic and thermoset matrices
Authors: Khan Tayyab , Ali Muhammad A. , Irfan Muhammad S. , Khan Kamran A. , Liao Kin , Umer Rehan
Published: March 2022

In this study, an online process monitoring system based on rGO coated glass fabric sensors was developed to monitor different stages of the resin infusion process. The developed sensors were able to monitor reinforcement compaction response, resin flow, race tracking, and resin cure when using thermoset resin and a novel low viscosity thermoplastic resin (i.e., Elium®). The coated glass fabric patches and strips were embedded at different locations within the laminate. The electrical resistance changes occurring within the embedded sensors during different stages of the manufacturing process were continuously monitored. The relative drop in overall resistance of the sensors upon contact with the resin systems was different for epoxy resin and Elium® resin due to differences in their electrical conductivity. It was found that the coating quality, dimensions, and spatial position of the sensors within the laminate and the type of resin system affected the performance of the sensors.
Electrically conductive nanocomposites produced by in situ polymerization of pyrrole in pre‐vulcanized natural rubber latex
Authors: Santim Ricardo Hidalgo , Sanches Alex Otávio , da Silva Michael Jonas , McMahan Colleen Marie , Malmonge José Antonio
Published: March 2022

Flexible conductive polymeric nanocomposites were produced by in situ polymerization of polypyrrole (PPy) in a natural rubber (NR) latex medium. Pre‐vulcanized and non‐pre‐vulcanized NR latex, with varying NR/pyrrole (Py) monomer ratio was studied. The resulting nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, DC electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties. The electrical conductivity increased as the NR/Py ratio decreased reaching a maximum of 1.0 × 10−2 S/cm for a vulcanized nanocomposite with NR/PY = 4 mass ratio. In terms of mechanical properties, it was observed that tensile strength at break (σatbreak) also increased with decreasing of NR/Py mass ratio, and for the same proportion of Py, the nanocomposites obtained from vulcanized latex presented higher strength. SEM analysis revealed that unlike non‐pre‐vulcanized latex, PPy nanoparticles tend to be distributed in the pre‐vulcanized matrix in circumferential patterns, with an average diameter of 1 micron, indicating that the rubber microparticles have been encapsulated by the conductive polymer. This engineered morphological structure has been shown to significantly influence the final properties of the nanocomposites, compared to those prepared from non‐vulcanized latex, changing not only the distribution of PPy in the matrix, but also changing the coalescence behavior of NR particles, as well as influencing the percolation threshold.