bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study of Extubation in Prone and Supine Position in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Spine Surgery in Prone Position
Authors: Singam Amol , Bajaj Radhika
Published: September 2021

Aim: In case of surgeries done in prone position, patients are rolled to supine during extubation which is associated with loss of monitoring and hemodynamic change. Also, incidence of coughing and bucking are noted. Several studies have shown that prone position extubation is associated with reduced frequency of coughing and monitor disconnection in prone position surgeries. The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of patients extubated in prone and supine posted for lumbar spine surgery.

Study Design: 60 patients varying from age 18 - 65 years and posted for lumbar spine surgery under general anaesthesia in prone position were randomly allocated to any one of the two groups Group P - In this group extubation was done in prone position at the end of surgery or Group S – In this group extubation was done in supine position at the end of surgery.

Place and Duration of Study: Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, DMIMS (DU), Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital (AVBRH), Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Sawangi (M), Wardha over the period of 1 year (2019 - 2020).

Methods: A double blinded randomized controlled comparative study was conducted on 60 patients with primary objective to measure incidence of coughing and severity of coughing in prone vs supine extubation. Patients were anesthetized with fentanyl, nitrous oxide, sevoflurane, and vecuronium. Neuromuscular blockade was reversed in prone position and all patients had spontaneous ventilation at the conclusion of surgery. At time 0, patients were randomly divided into group P or group S. Patients in the group S were then rolled over, while those in the prone position remained undisturbed. Frequency of cough, monitor disconnection and changes in heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were noted during extubation. Patient were extubated on purposeful behaviour and eye opening.

Results: Frequency of coughing was significantly less in prone patients in comparison to supine group (6 vs. 24 coughs) monitor disconnections dysconnectivity was also fewer (p < 0.001), little change in haemodynamics was noted during extubation. Time to extubation from time 0 was comparatively more in Group S. Airway rescue was not needed.

Conclusions: Extubation in prone position is associated with lesser frequency of coughing, disruption of monitors and significantly less hemodynamic changes as compared to supine position extubation he abstract should be concise and informative. It should not exceed 300 words in length. It should briefly describe the purpose of the work, techniques and methods used, major findings with important data and conclusions. Different sub-sections, as given below, should be used. No references should be cited in this part. Generally non-standard abbreviations should not be used, if necessary they should be clearly defined in the abstract, at first use.
Use of Cephalosporin Type Antimicrobials in Infection Wards in Tertiary Hospital in West India
Authors: Kothari Revati D. , Barde Anita , Bhide Harshavardhan , Deshpande Teja , Narkar Nimish S. , Tilak A. V.
Published: September 2021

Background: Antibiotic resistance is exponentially increasing worldwide. Irrational prescription of antibiotic treatment contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance. Appropriate antibiotic use is vital in reducing the mortality caused by bacterial infections. Third generation cephalosporins are now considered as the backbone of antibiotic therapy for treatment of serious infections including those in hospitalized patients. These drugs are the commonly prescribed ꞵ-lactam antibiotics even before culture sensitivity reports arrive. Generation of resistance has been a growing concern for all clinicians and must be avoided at all costs. This drug utilization study was undertaken to understand the growing resistance acquired by the organisms against cephalosporins caused due to the superfluous and unrestrained use of cephalosporins in the medical wards of our institution.

Objective: The study objectives were to assess:

The cephalosporins generation which was most commonly prescribed

The relevance of cephalosporins generations used in various diseases

The shift or addition of other antimicrobials upon failure of cephalosporins treatment

Methods: This was an observational study done amongst 350 patients admitted in infection wards of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune over a period of one year between January 2019 to December 2019 after obtaining institutional ethical clearance. Data was analyzed and values were presented descriptively in number and percentage form.

Results: Maximum usage of third generation cephalosporin was seen with ceftriaxone being the most commonly prescribed third generation cephalosporin in parenteral form (59.43%). Gender analysis revealed that males (60.28%) were prescribed more cephalosporins as compared to females (39.71%), whereas, frequent usage was seen in the age group 61 – 70 years. Bacteriological investigations were done in only 103 (29.42%) cases following which shift or addition of other antimicrobials was seen in 13 (3.71%) cases. Metronidazole was the most frequently co-prescribed with cephalosporins.

Conclusion: Our study revealed extensive usage of third generation cephalosporin and the treatment regimens implemented in majority of the cases were without prior culture sensitivity test leading to irrational prescribing. Our study, along with the various other studies, would help in taking the corrective measures to curb the unnecessary use of antibiotics, and framing the guidelines for the doctors prescribing them.
Editorial
Authors: Cunha Leandro Reinaldo da
Published: September 2021

Editorial da Revista Direito e Sexualidade
The circadian clock and diseases of the skin
Authors: Duan Junyan , Greenberg Elyse Noelani , Karri Satya Swaroop , Andersen Bogi
Published: September 2021

Organisms have an evolutionarily conserved internal rhythm that helps them anticipate and adapt to daily changes in the environment. Synchronized to the light–dark cycle with a period of around 24 hours, the timing of the circadian clock is set by light‐triggering signals sent from the retina to the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Other inputs, including food intake, exercise, and temperature, also affect clocks in peripheral tissues, including skin. Here, we review the intricate interplay between the core clock network and fundamental physiological processes in skin such as homeostasis, regeneration, and immune‐ and stress responses. We illustrate the effect of feeding time on the skin circadian clock and skin functions, a previously overlooked area of research. We then discuss works that relate the circadian clock and its disruption to skin diseases, including skin cancer, sunburn, hair loss, aging, infections, inflammatory skin diseases, and wound healing. Finally, we highlight the promise of circadian medicine for skin disease prevention and management.
The molecular mechanism of phytosphingosine binding to FFAR4/GPR120 differs from that of other fatty acids
Authors: Nagasawa Tomotaka , Horitani Masaki , Kawaguchi Shin‐ichi , Higashiyama Shigeki , Hama Yoichiro , Mitsutake Susumu
Published: September 2021

Free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4)/GPR120 comprises a receptor for medium‐ and long‐chain fatty acids. We previously identified phytosphingosine (PHS) as a novel ligand of FFAR4. Although many natural FFAR4 ligands have carboxyl groups, PHS does not, thus suggesting that binding to FFAR4 is driven by a completely different mechanism than other natural ligands such as α‐linolenic acid (ALA). To test this hypothesis, we performed docking simulation analysis using a FFAR4 homology model based on a protein model derived from the crystal structure of activated turkey beta‐1 adrenoceptor. The docking simulation revealed that the probable hydrogen bonds to FFAR4 differ between various ligands. In particular, binding was predicted between R264 of the FFAR4 and the oxygen of the carboxylate group in ALA, as well as between E249 of the FFAR4 and the oxygen of the hydroxy group at the C4‐position in PHS. Alanine substitution at E249 (E249A) dramatically reduced PHS‐induced FFAR4 activation but demonstrated a weaker effect on ALA‐induced FFAR4 activation. Kinetic analysis and Km values clearly demonstrated that the E249A substitution resulted in reduced affinity for PHS but not for ALA. Additionally, we observed that sphingosine, lacking a hydroxyl group at C4‐position, could not activate FFAR4. Our data show that E249 of the FFAR4 receptor is crucial for binding to the hydroxy group at the C4‐position in PHS, and this is a completely different molecular mechanism of binding from ALA. Because GPR120 agonists have attracted attention as treatments for type 2 diabetes, our findings may provide new insights into their development.
Isoflurane induces Art2‐Rsp5‐dependent endocytosis of Bap2 in yeast
Authors: Kozu Fumi , Shirahama‐Noda Kanae , Araki Yasuhiro , Kira Shintaro , Niwa Hitoshi , Noda Takeshi
Published: September 2021

Although general anesthesia is indispensable during modern surgical procedures, the mechanism by which inhalation anesthetics act on the synaptic membrane at the molecular and cellular level is largely unknown. In this study, we used yeast cells to examine the effect of isoflurane, an inhalation anesthetic, on membrane proteins. Bap2, an amino acid transporter localized on the plasma membrane, was endocytosed when yeast cells were treated with isoflurane. Depletion of RSP5, an E3 ligase, prevented this endocytosis and Bap2 was ubiquitinated in response to isoflurane, indicating an ubiquitin‐dependent process. Screening all the Rsp5 binding adaptors showed that Art2 plays a central role in this process. These results suggest that isoflurane affects Bap2 via an Art2‐Rsp5‐dependent ubiquitination system.
Using visual scene memory accuracy as a predictor of spatial navigation performance
Authors: Lovegrove Rhianna A. , Baumann Oliver
Published: September 2021

Spatial navigation is a fundamental cognitive function essential for daily life. Navigation skill assessment predominantly relies on self‐reports, with varying accounts regarding their validity. The current study aimed to determine whether performance on an objective visual scene memory recognition ability task could serve as a valid predictor of wayfinding navigation performance. A standardized sense of direction scale was used to compare the predictiveness of self‐report with the visual recognition test for objective navigation performance. Results from multiple regression analyses indicated that better performance on the visual, but not the verbal memory task significantly predicted wayfinding ability. Visual memory performance was also a better predictor of navigation performance than participants' self‐reported sense of direction. This study therefore suggests that the assessment of visual scene memory is a promising and ecologically valid way to predict everyday practical navigation ability—in addition to or instead of via the use of self‐reports.
Importance of Shared Treatment Goal Discussions in Rheumatoid Arthritis—A Cross‐Sectional Survey: Patients Report Providers Seldom Discuss Treatment Goals and Outcomes Improve When Goals Are Discussed
Authors: O’Neill Kelly D. , Marks Kathryne E. , Sinicrope Pamela S. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Symons Dana , Myasoedova Elena , Davis John M.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Treat‐to‐target (T2T) and shared decision‐making are valued features of current guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) management. Although T2T has demonstrated value for improving RA outcomes, implementation remains inconsistent and lacks standardization and procedures for including patient input. We sought to better understand the impact of shared decisions on T2T and how treatment goal discussions between patients and providers impact RA treatment improvement and satisfaction.

Methods

An anonymous, web‐based questionnaire was presented to United States residents aged 18 years or older with a self‐reported diagnosis of RA by a medical professional with 28 questions regarding socio‐demographics, RA disease activity (DA), diagnosis, treatments, outcomes, and goals. Analyses included descriptive statistics with χ2 and rank sum tests for comparisons.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 907 people (mean age of 58 years; mean 11 years since diagnosis; 90% female). The majority (571; 63%) did not discuss RA treatment goals with providers. Patients engaging in treatment goal discussions with their providers were three times more likely to be satisfied with their treatment plans. Patients discussing treatment goals with their providers were more likely to have improved DA levels and 68% more likely to reach remission.

Conclusion

A majority of patients with RA report having no treatment goal discussion with their providers; however, these discussions are associated with greater DA improvement and treatment satisfaction. Further research should seek understanding of how shared treatment goal discussions relate to successful RA management and explore the development of practical tools to implement them in regular clinic practice as part of a T2T regimen.
Effect of Training on Patient Self‐Assessment of Joint Counts in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tam Keith , Hazlewood Glen S. , Barber Claire E. H.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Patient self‐assessed joint counts, if accurate and reliable, could potentially serve as a useful clinical assessment tool in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This systematic review examines the effect of patient training on the inter‐rater reliability of joint counts between patients and clinicians.

Methods

The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL for articles that incorporated patient training and measured the reliability of patient self‐assessed joint counts in RA. Articles were included if they reported on the inter‐rater reliability between patient and clinician joint counts in both trained and untrained patients with RA. Data were extracted on characteristics of patients, structure and components of the training interventions, joint count reliability of patients with and without training, and patient feedback on training interventions. The relevant data were summarized and described.

Results

Multiple training methods have been studied (n = 5), including in‐person sessions run by rheumatologists and instructional videos on the joint examination. Overall, training improved the reliability of patient self–joint counts, with more marked improvement in reliability of swollen joint counts than tender joint counts. Patients had positive feedback when surveyed on their experiences with training.

Conclusion

Various training modalities (in‐person and video‐based) may be effective at improving reliability of patient self–joint counts. More research is needed on this topic, with potential areas for future research including 1) comparison between the efficacy of different modalities of training, and 2) impact of patient factors (education level and disease severity) on the efficacy of training.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Ti–Zr‐Based Alloy with Ultralow Young's Modulus and Excellent Biocompatibility
Authors: Kim Kyong Min , Al-Zain Yazan , Yamamoto Akiko , Daher Amirah H. , Mansour Ahmad T. , AlAjlouni Jihad M. , Aloweidi Abdelkarim S. , Al-Abbadi Mousa A. , Kim Hee Young , Miyazaki Shuichi
Published: September 2021

Recently, metastable β‐type Ti alloys have attracted attention as promising materials for medical implants due to low Young's modulus and superior biocompatibility. The former is dependent on texture developed during the thermomechanical process. Herein, new Ti–Zr–Nb–Sn–Mo alloys with ultralow Young's modulus and excellent biocompatibility are developed as promising materials for medical implants. The effect of Mo on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Ti–18Zr–5Nb–3Sn system is investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) results reveal that Mo acts as a β‐phase stabilizer. Moreover, mechanical behavior and recrystallization texture show strong composition dependence; the 2.5Mo alloy shows the lowest Young's modulus of 40 GPa. This is due to the formation of a recrystallization texture with strong Goss component of <001>. Corrosion behavior of the 2.5Mo alloy in the cell culture medium is similar to that of the commercially pure titanium (cp‐Ti), suggesting excellent corrosion resistance in the biological environment. Both murine fibroblasts and osteoblastic cells show good growth on the 2.5Mo alloy as the same level of that on the cp‐Ti. Implantation into rat subcutaneous tissue confirms no significant difference in the tissue reaction between the 2.5Mo alloy and the cp‐Ti.
Hydrogels Containing Gradients in Vascular Density Reveal Dose‐Dependent Role of Angiocrine Cues on Stem Cell Behavior
Authors: Ngo Mai T. , Barnhouse Victoria R. , Gilchrist Aidan E. , Mahadik Bhushan P. , Hunter Christine J. , Hensold Joy N. , Petrikas Nathan , Harley Brendan A. C.
Published: September 2021

Biomaterials that replicate patterns of microenvironmental signals from the stem cell niche offer the potential to refine platforms to regulate stem cell behavior. While significant emphasis has been placed on understanding the effects of biophysical and biochemical cues on stem cell fate, vascular‐derived or angiocrine cues offer an important alternative signaling axis for biomaterial‐based stem cell platforms. Elucidating dose‐dependent relationships between angiocrine cues and stem cell fate are largely intractable in animal models and 2D cell cultures. In this study, microfluidic mixing devices are leveraged to generate 3D hydrogels containing lateral gradients in vascular density alongside murine hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Regional differences in vascular density can be generated via embossed gradients in cell, matrix, or growth factor density. HSCs co‐cultured alongside vascular gradients reveal spatial patterns of HSC phenotype in response to angiocrine signals. Notably, decreased Akt signaling in high vessel density regions led to increased expansion of lineage‐positive hematopoietic cells. This approach offers a combinatorial tool to rapidly screen a continuum of microenvironments with varying vascular, biophysical, and biochemical cues to reveal the influence of local angiocrine signals on HSC fate.
Electrically Conductive Metal–Organic Framework Thin Film‐Based On‐Chip Micro‐Biosensor: A Platform to Unravel Surface Morphology‐Dependent Biosensing
Authors: Chen Xin , Dong Junjie , Chi Kai , Wang Liangjie , Xiao Fei , Wang Shuai , Zhao Yan , Liu Yunqi
Published: September 2021

Electrically conductive metal–organic frameworks (EC‐MOFs) are suitable for electrochemical sensing because of their unique structure and properties. Herein, an on‐chip electrochemical micro‐biosensor is designed to study the electrocatalytic interfaces, which are generally buried between the solid support and liquid electrolyte in conventional electrochemical sensing methods. The gas–liquid interfacial reaction method is used to obtain a Cu‐benzenehexathiol (Cu‐BHT) thin film with a flat up‐side surface and synaptic‐like structure on the bottom‐side surface. The effect of surface morphology on the film sensing performance is studied using the prepared Cu‐BHT film‐based on‐chip micro‐biosensor. The bottom‐side surface exhibited significantly higher H2O2 sensing performance than that of the smooth up‐side surface. The synaptic‐like structure has dense crystal defects (ts‐Cu), which act as nanozymes and play an important role in improving the H2O2 sensing performance. This study clarifies the role of crystal defects in Cu‐BHT sensing using the micro‐biosensor and allows the in‐situ study of electrochemical interface of EC‐MOF films during biosensing.
Multistate Tuning of Third Harmonic Generation in Fano‐Resonant Hybrid Dielectric Metasurfaces
Authors: Abdelraouf Omar A. M. , Anthur Aravind P. , Dong Zhaogang , Liu Hailong , Wang Qian , Krivitsky Leonid , Renshaw Wang Xiao , Wang Qi Jie , Liu Hong
Published: September 2021

Hybrid dielectric metasurfaces have emerged as a promising approach to enhancing near field confinement and thus high optical nonlinearity by utilizing low loss dielectric rather than relatively high loss metallic resonators. A wider range of applications can be realized if more design dimensions can be provided from material and fabrication perspectives to allow dynamic control of light. Here, tunable third harmonic generation (THG) via hybrid metasurfaces with phase change material Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) deposited on top of amorphous silicon metasurfaces is demonstrated. Fano resonance is excited to confine the incident light inside the hybrid metasurfaces, and an experimental quality factor (Q‐factor ≈ 125) is achieved at the fundamental pump wavelength around 1210 nm. Not only the switching between a turn‐on state of Fano resonance in the amorphous state of GST and a turn‐off state in its crystalline state are demonstrated, but also gradual multistate tuning of THG emission at its intermediate states. A high THG conversion efficiency of η = 2.9 × 10−6% is achieved, which is 32 times more than that of a GST‐based Fabry–Pèrot cavity under a similar pump laser power. Experimental results show the potential of exploring GST‐based hybrid dielectric metasurfaces for tunable nonlinear optical devices.
Emulsion‐Templated Poly(N‐Isopropylacrylamide) Shells Formed by Thermo‐Enhanced Interfacial Complexation
Authors: Sixdenier Lucas , Tribet Christophe , Marie Emmanuelle
Published: September 2021

The encapsulation of fragile biomacromolecules is crucial in many biotechnological applications but remains challenging. Interfacial complexation (IC) in water‐in‐oil emulsions proves to be an efficient process for the formation of protective polymer layers at the surface of capsule‐precursor water droplets. In this work, the enhancement of conventional IC by introducing thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) strands in the interfacial polymer layer is described. Surfactant‐polymer IC is implemented in water‐in‐fluorocarbon oil emulsions between a water‐soluble poly(L‐lysine)‐g‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) cationic copolymer (PLL‐g‐PNIPAM) and an oil‐soluble anionic surfactant. Fluorescence imaging demonstrates that the thermal collapse transition of PNIPAM strands, triggered by gentle heating, induces an enrichment of the polymer layer initially formed by IC. Spontaneous co‐precipitation of nanoparticles initially dispersed in the aqueous cores—with no specific treatment—is also achieved upon PNIPAM transition. This process is leveraged to irreversibly segregate these nanoparticles in the interfacial polymer layer, resulting in gel‐like mixed shells. Thermo‐enhancement of conventional IC is thus a promising approach for the straightforward formation, strengthening, and functionalization of capsule shells. As implemented in mild conditions, thermo‐enhanced IC is additionally compatible with the encapsulation of proteins, opening new opportunities for delivery systems of biomacromolecules.
Faster Diffusion of Oxygen Along Dislocations in (La,Sr)MnO3+δ Is a Space‐Charge Phenomenon
Authors: Börgers Jacqueline M. , Kler Joe , Ran Ke , Larenz Elizabeth , Weirich Thomas E. , Dittmann Regina , De Souza Roger A.
Published: September 2021

In displaying accelerated oxygen diffusion along extended defects, (La,Sr)MnO3+δ is an atypical acceptor‐doped perovskite‐type oxide. In this study, 18O/16O diffusion experiments on epitaxial thin films of La0.8Sr0.2MnO3+δ and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are combined to elucidate the origin of this phenomenon for dislocations: Does diffusion occur along dislocation cores or along space‐charge tubes? Transmission electron microscopy studies of the films revealed dislocations extending from the surface. 18O penetration profiles measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry indicated (slow) bulk diffusion and faster diffusion along dislocations. Oxygen tracer diffusivities obtained for temperatures 873 ≤ T [K] ≤ 973 were over two orders of magnitude higher for dislocations than for the bulk. The activation enthalpy of oxygen diffusion along dislocations, of (2.95 ± 0.21) eV, is surprisingly high relative to that for bulk diffusion, (2.67 ± 0.13) eV. This result militates against fast diffusion along dislocation cores. MD simulations confirmed no accelerated migration of oxide ions along dislocation cores. Faster diffusion of oxygen along dislocations in La0.8Sr0.2MnO3+δ is thus concluded to occur within space‐charge tubes in which oxygen vacancies are strongly accumulated. Reasons for and the consequences of space‐charge zones at extended defects in manganite perovskites are discussed.
Modular Type III Porous Liquids Based on Porous Organic Cage Microparticles
Authors: Kai Aiting , Egleston Benjamin D. , Tarzia Andrew , Clowes Rob , Briggs Michael E. , Jelfs Kim E. , Cooper Andrew I. , Greenaway Rebecca L.
Published: September 2021

The dispersion of particulate porous solids in size‐excluded liquids has emerged as a method to create Type III porous liquids, mostly using insoluble microporous materials such as metal–organic frameworks and zeolites. Here, the first examples of Type III porous liquids based on porous organic cages (POCs) are presented. By exploiting the solution processability of the POCs, racemic and quasiracemic cage microparticles are formed by chiral recognition. Dispersion of these porous microparticles in a range of size‐excluded liquids, including oils and ionic liquids, forms stable POC‐based Type III porous liquids. The flexible pairing between the solid POC particles and a carrier liquid allows the formation of a range of compositions, pore sizes, and other physicochemical properties to suit different applications and operating conditions. For example, it is shown that porous liquids with relatively low viscosities or high thermal stability can be produced. A 12.5 wt% Type III porous liquid comprising racemic POC microparticles and an ionic liquid, [BPy][NTf2], shows a CO2 working capacity (104.30 µmol gL−1) that is significantly higher than the neat ionic liquid (37.27 µmol gL−1) between 25 and 100 °C. This liquid is colloidally stable and can be recycled at least ten times without loss of CO2 capacity.
Multifunctional Molecular Design of a New Fulleropyrrolidine Electron Transport Material Family Engenders High Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Xing Zhou , Liu Fu , Li Shu‐Hui , Chen Zuo‐Chang , An Ming‐Wei , Zheng Shizhao , Jen Alex K.‐Y. , Yang Shihe
Published: September 2021

[6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester remains indispensable as the electron transport material (ETM) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs), but its synthesis involves complicated multisteps with low productivity. In contrast, the potential of synthesizing simpler fulleropyrrolidine derivatives has long been overlooked, and little has been understood regarding their structure‐dependent effects on photovoltaic (PV) performance. Herein, seven novel fulleropyrrolidine derivatives (F1–F7) are deliberately designed, synthesized, and comprehensively characterized in both solution and thin‐film states and subsequently investigated as ETMs for PSCs. Notably, the F4 delivers the highest power conversion efficiencies over 20% of devices, which surpass all reported fulleropyrrolidine ETMs due to its optimal photoelectric property. Moreover, the structure‐dependent effects of the fullerenes on PV parameters are uncovered, including solubility, intermolecular interaction, packing structure, and charge‐transfer ability, which can guide the future design of high‐performance and stable fullerene ETMs for PSCs.
pH‐Sensitive Molecular‐Switch‐Containing Polymer Nanoparticle for Breast Cancer Therapy with Ferritinophagy‐Cascade Ferroptosis and Tumor Immune Activation
Authors: Zuo Tiantian , Fang Tianxu , Zhang Jun , Yang Jie , Xu Rui , Wang Zhihua , Deng Huizi , Shen Qi
Published: September 2021

Ferritin internalized into tumor cells is degraded and releases iron ions via ferritinophagy. Iron ions participate in Fenton reaction to produce reactive oxygen species for lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. Inhibition of indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) decreases tryptophan elimination to induce T cells activation for tumor immunosuppression relief. The active tumor targeting nanoparticles containing ferritin and a pH‐sensitive molecular‐switch (FPBC@SN) are developed to utilize ferritinophagy‐cascade ferroptosis and tumor immunity activation for cancer therapy. FPBC@SN disintegrates in acidic cytoplasm and releases sorafenib (SRF) and IDO inhibitor (NLG919). SRF upregulates nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) to induce ferritin and endogenous iron pool degradation by ferritinophagy, then obtained iron ions participate in the Fenton reaction to produce lipid peroxide (LPO). Meanwhile, SRF blocks glutathione synthesis to downregulate glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) which can scavenge LPO as a different pathway from ferritinophagy to promote ferroptosis in tumor cells. NLG919 inhibits IDO to reduce tryptophan metabolism, so immunity in tumors is aroused to anti‐tumor. In vitro and in vivo experiments prove FPBC@SN inhibits tumor cell growth and metastasis, indicating the potential of FPBC@SN for breast cancer therapy based on the combination of ferritinophagy‐cascade ferroptosis and tumor immunity activation.
Atomically Dispersed High‐Density Al–N4 Sites in Porous Carbon for Efficient Photodriven CO2 Cycloaddition
Authors: Yang Qihao , Peng Huaitao , Zhang Qiuju , Qian Xu , Chen Xu , Tang Xuan , Dai Sheng , Zhao Jiajun , Jiang Kun , Yang Qiu , Sun Jian , Zhang Linjuan , Zhang Nian , Gao Honglin , Lu Zhiyi , Chen Liang
Published: September 2021

Highly active catalysts that can directly utilize renewable energy (e.g., solar energy) are desirable for CO2 value‐added processes. Herein, aiming at improving the efficiency of photodriven CO2 cycloaddition reactions, a catalyst composed of porous carbon nanosheets enriched with a high loading of atomically dispersed Al atoms (≈14.4 wt%, corresponding to an atomic percent of ≈7.3%) coordinated with N (AlN4 motif, Al–N–C catalyst) via a versatile molecule‐confined pyrolysis strategy is reported. The performance of the Al–N–C catalyst for catalytic CO2 cycloaddition under light irradiation (≈95% conversion, reaction rate = 3.52 mmol g−1 h−1) is significantly superior to that obtained under a thermal environment (≈57% conversion, reaction rate = 2.11 mmol g−1 h−1). Besides the efficient photothermal conversion induced by the carbon matrix, both experimental and theoretical analysis reveal that light irradiation favors the photogenerated electron transfer from the semiconductive Al–N–C catalyst to the epoxide reactant, facilitating the formation of a ring‐opened intermediate through the rate‐limiting step. This study not only provides an advanced Al–N–C catalyst for photodriven CO2 cycloaddition, but also furnishes new insight for the rational design of superior photocatalysts for diverse heterogeneous catalytic reactions in the future.
Monolayer Support Control and Precise Colloidal Nanocrystals Demonstrate Metal–Support Interactions in Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Goodman Emmett D. , Asundi Arun S. , Hoffman Adam S. , Bustillo Karen C. , Stebbins Jonathan F. , Bare Simon R. , Bent Stacey F. , Cargnello Matteo
Published: September 2021

Electronic and geometric interactions between active and support phases are critical in determining the activity of heterogeneous catalysts, but metal–support interactions are challenging to study. Here, it is demonstrated how the combination of the monolayer‐controlled formation using atomic layer deposition (ALD) and colloidal nanocrystal synthesis methods leads to catalysts with sub‐nanometer precision of active and support phases, thus allowing for the study of the metal–support interactions in detail. The use of this approach in developing a fundamental understanding of support effects in Pd‐catalyzed methane combustion is demonstrated. Uniform Pd nanocrystals are deposited onto Al2O3/SiO2 spherical supports prepared with control over morphology and Al2O3 layer thicknesses ranging from sub‐monolayer to a ≈4 nm thick uniform coating. Dramatic changes in catalytic activity depending on the coverage and structure of Al2O3 situated at the Pd/Al2O3 interface are observed, with even a single monolayer of alumina contributing an order of magnitude increase in reaction rate. By building the Pd/Al2O3 interface up layer‐by‐layer and using uniform Pd nanocrystals, this work demonstrates the importance of controlled and tunable materials in determining metal–support interactions and catalyst activity.
Polydopamine Nanobottles with Photothermal Capability for Controlled Release and Related Applications
Authors: Qiu Jichuan , Shi Yifeng , Xia Younan
Published: September 2021

Nanobottles refer to colloidal particles featuring a hollow body connected to a single opening on the surface. This unique feature makes them ideal carriers for the encapsulation and controlled release of various types of cargos. Here a facile route to the fabrication of uniform nanobottles made of polydopamine by leveraging swelling‐induced pressure is reported. When polystyrene spheres are coated with polydopamine and then incubated with a toluene/water emulsion, the polystyrene will be swollen to automatically poke a single hole in the shell because of the pressure inside the shell. After quenching the swelling with ethanol and then removing all the polystyrene with tetrahydrofuran, polydopamine nanobottles are obtained. The dimensions of the hollow body are determined by the polystyrene template, while the size of the opening can be tuned by varying the shell thickness. Through the opening, different types of cargos, including small molecules and biomacromolecules, can be easily loaded with a thermoresponsive material into the cavity. The cargos can be released in a controllable manner through direct heating or polydopamine‐enabled photothermal heating. In a proof‐of‐concept experiment, the polydopamine nanobottles are used for temperature‐controlled release of thrombin to trigger the formation of fibrin gels in situ.
Atomically Dispersed Ruthenium on Nickel Hydroxide Ultrathin Nanoribbons for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu , Wan Jiawei , Wang Jin , Zhang Qinghua , Gu Lin , Zheng Lirong , Wang Na , Yu Ranbo
Published: September 2021

Achieving highly efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline media is a great challenge. Single‐atom catalysts with high‐loading amount have attracted great interest due to their remarkable catalytic properties. Herein, by using nickel foam as the substrate, the authors design and precisely synthesize atomic ruthenium (Ru)‐loaded nickel hydroxide ultrathin nanoribbons (R‐NiRu) with a high atomic Ru loading amount reaching ≈7.7 wt% via a one‐step hydrothermal method. The presence of concentrated Cl− in the synthetic system is beneficial for constructing ultrathin nanoribbons, which, with abundant edge OH groups, make it easy to trap atomic Ru. Taking advantage of the synergy between atomic Ru and the nanoribbon morphology of nickel hydroxide, R‐NiRu exhibit a low overpotential of 16 mV for HER at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 40 mV dec−1 in aqueous 1.0 m KOH solution, which are superior to those of commercial Pt/C (overpotential of 17 mV at 10 mA cm−2, Tafel slope of 43 mV dec−1). Density functional theory (DFT) calculation results demonstrate that atomically dispersed Ru can significantly reduce the HER energy barrier. Moreover, R‐NiRu maintains exceptional stability after 5000 cyclic voltammetry cycles. This efficient and facile synthetic strategy provides a new avenue for designing efficient catalysts.
Ultrathin Covalent Organic Framework Membranes via a Multi‐Interfacial Engineering Strategy for Gas Separation
Authors: Ying Yunpan , Peh Shing Bo , Yang Hao , Yang Ziqi , Zhao Dan
Published: September 2021

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are promising membrane materials due to their high porosity, ordered arrangements, and high stability. However, the relatively large pore size and complicated membrane preparation processes of COFs limit their applications in sieving small gas molecules, even at a lab scale. Herein, a multi‐interfacial engineering strategy is proposed, that is, direct layer‐by‐layer interfacial reaction of two COFs (TpPa‐SO3H and TpTGCl) with different pore sizes to form narrowed apertures at the COF–COF interfaces atop a relatively large‐pore COF (COF‐LZU1) film. At 423 K, one fabricated 155 nm‐thick ultrathin COF membrane displays H2 permeance as high as 2163 gas permeation units (GPU) and a H2/CO2 selectivity of 26, transcending the 2008 Robeson upper bound. This strategy not only provides high‐performance membrane candidates for H2 separation, but also enlightens the interfacial engineering and pore engineering manipulation for other COFs, porous polymers, and their membranes.
High Energy Density Solid State Lithium Metal Batteries Enabled by Sub‐5 µm Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: He Fei , Tang Wenjing , Zhang Xinyue , Deng Lijun , Luo Jiayan
Published: September 2021

Solid‐state batteries (SSBs) are considered as the most promising next‐generation high‐energy‐density energy storage devices due to their ability in addressing the safety concerns from organic electrolytes and enabling energy dense lithium anodes. To ensure the high energy density of SSBs, solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) are required to be thin and light‐weight, and simultaneously offer a wide electrochemical window to pair with high‐voltage cathodes. However, the decrease of SSE thickness and delicate structure may increase the cell safety risks, which is detrimental for the practical application of SSBs. Herein, to demonstrate a high‐energy‐density SSB with sufficient safety insurance, an ultrathin (4.2 µm) bilayer SSE with porous ceramic scaffold and double‐layer Li+‐conducting polymer, is proposed. The fire‐resistant and stiff ceramic scaffold improves the safety capability and mechanical strength of the composite SSE, and the bilayer polymer structure enhances the compatibility of Li metal anode and high‐voltage cathodes. The 3D ceramic facilitates Li‐ion conduction and regulates Li deposition. Thus, high energy density of 506 Wh kg−1 and 1514 Wh L−1 is achieved based on LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cathodes with a low N/P ratio and long lifespan over 3000 h. High‐energy‐density anode‐free cells are further demonstrated.
Virus‐Mimic mRNA Vaccine for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Meng Chaoyang , Chen Zhe , Mai Junhua , Shi Qing , Tian Shaohui , Hinkle Louis , Li Jun , Zhang Zhe , Ramirez Maricela , Zhang Licheng , Xu Yitian , Zhang Jilu , Pan Ping‐Ying , Chen Shu‐Hsia , Li Hangwen , Shen Haifa
Published: September 2021

An effective therapeutic cancer vaccine should be empowered with the capacity to overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Here, the authors describe a mRNA virus‐mimicking vaccine platform that is comprised of a phospholipid bilayer encapsulated with a protein‐nucleotide core consisting of antigen‐encoding mRNA molecules, unmethylated CpG oligonucleotides and positively charged proteins. In cell culture, VLVP potently stimulated bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) to express inflammatory cytokines that facilitated dendritic cell (DC) maturation and promoted antigen processing and presentation. In tumor‐bearing mice, VLVP treatment stimulated proliferation of antigen‐specific CD8+T cells in the lymphatic organs and T cell infiltration into the tumor bed, resulting in potent anti‐tumor immunity. Cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF) analysis revealed that VLVP treatment stimulated a 5‐fold increase in tumor‐associated CD8+DCs and a 4‐fold increase in tumorinfiltrated CD8+T cells, with concurrent decreases in tumor‐associated bone marrow‐derived suppressor cells and arginase 1‐ expressing suppressive DCs. Finally, CpG oligonucleotide is an essential adjuvant for vaccine activity. Inclusion of CpG not only maximized vaccine activity but also prevented PD‐1 expression in T cells, serving the dual roles as a potent adjuvant and a checkpoint blockade agent.
2021 Update on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant for myelofibrosis: A review of current data and applications on risk stratification and management
Authors: Ali Haris , Bacigalupo Andrea
Published: September 2021

The number of patients with myelofibrosis (MF) undergoing an allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is increasing: in the analysis of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) the number of MF has increased from 515 in 2014 to 748 in 2018 . This reflects the fact that HSCT is currently the only curative treatment, capable of inducing prolonged disease‐free survival. Nevertheless, several problems prevent more patients from undergoing an allogeneic HSCT: we will be discussing indications for HSCT, comorbidities, splenomegaly, older age and disease phase. Donor type and stem cell source are less of a problem. Several transplant platforms exist, including different strategies for graft versus host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis, Age tailored conditioning regimens need to be implemented, to allow older and fragile patients to undergo an allogeneic HSCT.
Impact of the coronavirus pandemic on mental health and health care in adults with neurofibromatosis: Patient perspectives from an online survey
Authors: Wolters Pamela L. , Reda Stephanie , Martin Staci , Al Ghriwati Nour , Baker Melissa , Berg Dale , Erickson Gregg , Franklin Barbara , Merker Vanessa L. , Oberlander Beverly , Reeve Stephanie , Rohl Claas , Rosser Tena , Toledo‐Tamula Mary Anne , Vranceanu Ana‐Maria
Published: September 2021

The coronavirus pandemic increased anxiety and stress and prevented access to health care worldwide; it is unclear how COVID‐19 affected adults with a multisystem genetic disorder such as neurofibromatosis (NF). An anonymous online survey was distributed through an international registry and foundations to adults with NF (June–August 2020) to assess the impact of the pandemic on mental health and NF health care. Six hundred and thirteen adults (18–81 years; M = 45.7) with NF1 (77.8%), NF2 (14.2%), and schwannomatosis (7.8%) provided complete responses. Respondents rated moderate‐to‐high amounts of worry about the impact of COVID‐19 on their emotional (46.3%) and physical health (46.7%), and 54.8% endorsed moderate‐to‐high pandemic‐related stress. Adults with diagnosed/suspected mental health disorders or moderate‐to‐severe NF symptom impact as well as females endorsed higher COVID‐19 stress (ps < 0.01). Less than half who missed a doctor's appointment for their NF care (43.4%) used telehealth. Of these, 33.3% and 46.2% reported that telehealth met their needs to a moderate or high degree, respectively. Results indicated that subgroups of adults with NF experience higher COVID‐19‐related worries and stress and may need additional support. Furthermore, telehealth is under‐utilized and could help NF providers connect with patients, although improved delivery and patient training may facilitate expanded use of these services.
4′‐Selenonucleosides: Regio‐ and Stereoselective Synthesis of Novel Ribavirin and Acadesine Analogs as Anti‐Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Agents
Authors: Lee Hyejin , Jarhad Dnyandev B. , Lee Ahrim , Lee Choongho , Jeong Lak Shin
Published: September 2021

Intrigued by the biological activity of 2′‐C‐methylribofuranosyl nucleosides, and ribavirin/acadesine, based on the bioisosteric rationale between oxygen and selenium, we herein report a design and synthesis of the 2′‐C‐methyl‐4′‐seleno‐ribavirin and ‐acadesine as potential anti‐HCV agents. The 2′‐C‐methyl 4′‐selenoribavirin was synthesized in a regio‐ and stereoselective manner and completely characterized through 2D NMR and X‐ray crystallography. While the 2′‐C‐methyl 4′‐selenoacadesine has been efficiently synthesized by utilizing purine‐ring opening/degradation procedure via nucleophilic cleavage of N3−C2 bond of a purine by ethylenediamine (EDA) as the key step.
Advanced do‐not‐attempt‐resuscitation directives and emergency medical services for out‐of‐hospital cardiopulmonary arrest patients in Japan: a pilot study
Authors: Maruhashi Takaaki , Oi Marina , Asakuma Sadataka , Kotoh Rika , Shibuya Hirotaka , Kurihara Yutaro , Asari Yasushi
Published: September 2021

Aims

We investigated how do‐not‐attempt‐resuscitation (DNAR) orders are currently used, and we examined the emergency medical team responses for out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) cases in Japan.

Methods

The sample for this prospective study comprised all OHCA cases attended to by the Sagamihara Municipal Fire Department emergency medical services between May 30, 2019 and February 15, 2020. Data were recorded by the responding emergency medical team.

Results

There were 396 OHCA cases. The mean age was 75 ± 18 years, and individuals aged 65 years or older accounted for 80.6%. Approximately 70% of the patients had an underlying disease. A DNAR order was available in only 45 (11.4%) of the cases, of which 12 (26.7%) were written, 27 (60%) were verbally confirmed, and six (13.3%) were confirmed in some other way or both. The home physician was present and able to confirm the patient’s death in only one of the DNAR cases. In 43 (95.6%) of the cases, the emergency medical team carried out cardiopulmonary resuscitation despite a DNAR order; of them, a total of 17 (37.8%) patients were transported to a tertiary emergency hospital.

Conclusions

Our analyses indicate the under‐utilization of DNAR advance directives and advance care planning (which are important for better end‐of‐life care) in Japan. Currently, an emergency medical team could be required to attempt resuscitation against an individuals’ clear DNAR order. In the future, legal arrangements regarding the handling of DNAR directives on site may be required to respect patients’ wishes.
Plasmon‐Enhanced, Self‐Traced Nanomotors on the Surface of Silicon
Authors: Yang Jianhua , Zheng Jiapeng , Ai Ruoqi , Lai Yunhe , Chow Tsz Him , Shao Lei , Wang Jianfang
Published: September 2021

Light‐driven nanomotors have attracted much attention due to their potential applications. The movement of conventional nanomotors typically occurs in the solution phase, which limits their application fields. Utilizing visible light to drive nanomotors at the solid–liquid interface represents a grand challenge due to the large friction force between the nanomotor and the solid surface. Based on the attractive plasmon resonance of Au nanocrystals, for the first time, plasmon‐enhanced Au nanocrystal‐based nanomotors moving at the silicon–aqueous solution interface have been developed. Such nanomotors move with a clear trace engraved on the Si surface, representing an excellent and exceptional self‐traced nanomotor system. In addition, the nanomotor trace on the Si surface also provides a unique and promising approach to the fabrication of nanoscale Si patterns, which is central to many applications, including microelectronics, sensing, information storage, and optoelectronics.