bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifibrotic therapy by sustained release of low molecular weight heparin from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice
Authors: Saito Takashi , Kotani Takuya , Suzuki Koichi
Published: November 2020

Heparin and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) have recently been considered useful treatment tools for inflammation. Heparin has antifibrotic activity, mediated by cellular secretion of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). HGF has antifibrotic properties demonstrated in experimental models of lung, kidney, heart, skin, and liver fibrosis. The ability of LMWH for HGF secretion is similar to that of normal heparin. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is widely used for sustained drug release, because of its biocompatibility and low toxicity. LMWH-loaded PLGA microparticles are prepared by a conventional water-in-oil-in-water emulsion method. Interstitial pneumonia is a life-threatening pathological condition that causes respiratory failure when it progresses. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of LMWH-loaded PLGA microparticles in a mouse model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. The ratios of fibrotic area to total area were significantly lower in mice administered LMWH-loaded microparticles than in mice administered bleomycin alone. The microparticle administration did not further enhance the gene expression for inflammatory cytokines. In a cell culture study, HGF secretion by mouse and human lung fibroblasts was significantly increased by LMWH addition. We conclude that LMWH showed anti-inflammatory activity, through the effects of LMWH-loaded PLGA microparticles on cells at sites of inflammation.
Temperature-dependent optical and vibrational properties of PtSe2 thin films
Authors: Gulo Desman P. , Yeh Han , Chang Wen-Hao , Liu Hsiang-Lin
Published: November 2020

PtSe2 has received substantial research attention because of its intriguing physical properties and potential practical applications. In this paper, we investigated the optical properties of bilayer and multilayer PtSe2 thin films through spectroscopic ellipsometry over a spectral range of 0.73–6.42 eV and at temperatures between 4.5 and 500 K. At room temperature, the spectra of refractive index exhibited several anomalous dispersion features below 1000 nm and approached a constant value in the near-infrared frequency range. The thermo-optic coefficients of bilayer and multilayer PtSe2 thin films were (4.31 ± 0.04) × 10−4/K and (–9.20 ± 0.03) × 10−4/K at a wavelength of 1200 nm. Analysis of the optical absorption spectrum at room temperature confirmed that bilayer PtSe2 thin films had an indirect band gap of approximately 0.75 ± 0.01 eV, whereas multilayer PtSe2 thin films exhibited semimetal behavior. The band gap of bilayer PtSe2 thin films increased to 0.83 ± 0.01 eV at 4.5 K because of the suppression of electron–phonon interactions. Furthermore, the frequency shifts of Raman-active Eg and A1g phonon modes of both thin films in the temperature range between 10 and 500 K accorded with the predictions of the anharmonic model. These results provide basic information for the technological development of PtSe2-based optoelectronic and photonic devices at various temperatures.
Human perinatal stem cell derived extracellular matrix enables rapid maturation of hiPSC-CM structural and functional phenotypes
Authors: Block Travis , Creech Jeffery , da Rocha Andre Monteiro , Marinkovic Milos , Ponce-Balbuena Daniela , Jiménez-Vázquez Eric N. , Griffey Sy , Herron Todd J.
Published: November 2020

The immature phenotype of human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) is a major limitation to the use of these valuable cells for pre-clinical toxicity testing and for disease modeling. Here we tested the hypothesis that human perinatal stem cell derived extracellular matrix (ECM) promotes hiPSC-CM maturation to a greater extent than mouse cell derived ECM. We refer to the human ECM as Matrix Plus (Matrix Plus) and compare effects to commercially available mouse ECM (Matrigel). hiPSC-CMs cultured on Matrix Plus mature functionally and structurally seven days after thaw from cryopreservation. Mature hiPSC-CMs showed rod-shaped morphology, highly organized sarcomeres, elevated cTnI expression and mitochondrial distribution and function like adult cardiomyocytes. Matrix Plus also promoted mature hiPSC-CM electrophysiological function and monolayers’ response to hERG ion channel specific blocker was Torsades de Pointes (TdP) reentrant arrhythmia activations in 100% of tested monolayers. Importantly, Matrix Plus enabled high throughput cardiotoxicity screening using mature human cardiomyocytes with validation utilizing reference compounds recommended for the evolving Comprehensive In Vitro Proarrhythmia Assay (CiPA) coordinated by the Health and Environmental Sciences Institute (HESI). Matrix Plus offers a solution to the commonly encountered problem of hiPSC-CM immaturity that has hindered implementation of these human based cell assays for pre-clinical drug discovery.
Implications of historical height loss for prevalent vertebral fracture, spinal osteoarthritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Nakano Masaki , Nakamura Yukio , Suzuki Takako , Kobayashi Tsukasa , Takahashi Jun , Shiraki Masataka
Published: November 2020

We recently uncovered an association between spinal osteoarthritis and height loss that was independent of incident vertebral fracture. However, the optimal cut-off value of historical height loss (HHL) for discriminating spinal osteoarthritis has not been reported. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the implications of HHL for prevalent vertebral fracture, spinal osteoarthritis, and other co-morbidities in postmenopausal women from the Nagano Cohort Study. In total, 942 Japanese postmenopausal outpatients (mean age: 66.7 years) were investigated. HHL was estimated by arm span – body height difference. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed significant independent associations of HHL with prevalent vertebral fracture (odds ratio [OR] 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.55–2.29), spinal osteoarthritis (OR 1.57; 95% CI 1.31–1.88), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.34–2.28) after adjustment for other confounders. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of HHL was conducted to discriminate the prevalence of co-morbidities. The optimal cut-off value as defined by the Youden index for prevalent vertebral fracture, spinal osteoarthritis, and GERD was 4.95 cm (area under the curve [AUC] 0.740; 95% CI 0.704–0.776), 2.75 cm (AUC 0.701; 95% CI 0.667–0.735), and 5.35 cm (AUC 0.692; 95% CI 0.629–0.754), respectively. Better understanding of the above relationships and proposed cut-off values will be useful for improving the diagnosis, care management, and quality of life in elderly patients.
Hydroxyurea treatment is associated with reduced degree of oxidative perturbation in children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Vinhaes Caian L. , Teixeira Rozana S. , Monteiro-Júnior Jay A. S. , Tibúrcio Rafael , Cubillos-Angulo Juan M. , Arriaga María B. , Sabarin Adrielle G. , de Souza Amâncio J. , Silva Jacqueline J. , Lyra Isa M. , Ladeia Ana Marice , Andrade Bruno B.
Published: November 2020

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is the most common inherited hemolytic anemia worldwide. Here, we performed an exploratory study to investigate the systemic oxidative stress in children and adolescents with SCA. Additionally, we evaluated the potential impact of hydroxyurea therapy on the status of oxidative stress in a case–control study from Brazil. To do so, a panel containing 9 oxidative stress markers was measured in plasma samples from a cohort of 47 SCA cases and 40 healthy children and adolescents. Among the SCA patients, 42.5% were undertaking hydroxyurea. Multidimensional analysis was employed to describe disease phenotypes. Our results demonstrated that SCA is associated with increased levels of oxidative stress markers, suggesting the existence of an unbalanced inflammatory response in peripheral blood. Subsequent analyses revealed that hydroxyurea therapy was associated with diminished oxidative imbalance in SCA patients. Our findings reinforce the idea that SCA is associated with a substantial dysregulation of oxidative responses which may be dampened by treatment with hydroxyurea. If validated by larger prospective studies, our observations argue that reduction of oxidative stress may be a main mechanism through which hydroxyurea therapy attenuates the tissue damage and can contribute to improved clinical outcomes in SCA.
Prognostic significance of the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score in predicting postoperative complications in patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Dong Xue , Tang Shasha , Liu Wei , Qi Weilin , Ye Linna , Yang Xiaoyan , Ge Xiaolong , Zhou Wei
Published: November 2020

Preoperative immune-nutritional status is correlated with postoperative outcomes. The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score is a useful tool for predicting the postoperative outcomes of cancer surgery. This study aimed to evaluate whether the CONUT score could predict postoperative complications in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients. In total, 202 CD patients were eligible. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for postoperative complications. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to examine the cutoff value for predictors of postoperative complications. Among all the patients, 66 developed postoperative complications. The cut-off value of the CONUT score was 3.5 for complications. Eighty-one patients had a low CONUT score (< 3.5), and 121 patients had a high CONUT score (> 3.5). There was a significant difference in postoperative complications between the groups with low and high CONUT score (17.3% vs. 43.0%, p < 0.001). Patients with high CONUT score had low body mass index (BMI), more mild postoperative complications (p = 0.001) and a longer postoperative stay (p = 0.002). Postoperative complications were correlated with BMI, preoperative albumin, the preoperative CONUT score, and preoperative infliximab use. Then, the preoperative CONUT score was an independent risk factor for complications (OR 3.507, 95% CI 1.522–8.079, p = 0.003). ROC analysis showed that the CONUT score was a better predictor of postoperative complications in CD patients than albumin and the prognostic nutritional index. Thus, a preoperative CONUT score cut-off value of more than 3.5 could help to identify patients with a high possibility of malnutrition and postoperative complications.
Inhibition of red blood cell development by arsenic-induced disruption of GATA-1
Authors: Zhou Xixi , Medina Sebastian , Bolt Alicia M. , Zhang Haikun , Wan Guanghua , Xu Huan , Lauer Fredine T. , Wang Shu Chun , Burchiel Scott W. , Liu Ke Jian
Published: November 2020

Anemia is a hematological disorder that adversely affects the health of millions of people worldwide. Although many variables influence the development and exacerbation of anemia, one major contributing factor is the impairment of erythropoiesis. Normal erythropoiesis is highly regulated by the zinc finger transcription factor GATA-1. Disruption of the zinc finger motifs in GATA-1, such as produced by germline mutations, compromises the function of this critical transcription factor and causes dyserythropoietic anemia. Herein, we utilize a combination of in vitro and in vivo studies to provide evidence that arsenic, a widespread environmental toxicant, inhibits erythropoiesis likely through replacing zinc within the zinc fingers of the critical transcription factor GATA-1. We found that arsenic interacts with the N- and C-terminal zinc finger motifs of GATA-1, causing zinc loss and inhibition of DNA and protein binding activities, leading to dyserythropoiesis and an imbalance of hematopoietic differentiation. For the first time, we show that exposures to a prevalent environmental contaminant compromises the function of a key regulatory factor in erythropoiesis, producing effects functionally similar to inherited GATA-1 mutations. These findings highlight a novel molecular mechanism by which arsenic exposure may cause anemia and provide critical insights into potential prevention and intervention for arsenic-related anemias.
Differential type I interferon response and primary airway neutrophil extracellular trap release in children with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Grunwell Jocelyn R. , Stephenson Susan T. , Mohammad Ahmad F. , Jones Kaitlin , Mason Carrie , Opolka Cydney , Fitzpatrick Anne M.
Published: November 2020

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a heterogeneous condition characterized by the recruitment of large numbers of neutrophils into the lungs. Neutrophils isolated from the blood of adults with ARDS have elevated expression of interferon (IFN) stimulated genes (ISGs) associated with decreased capacity of neutrophils to kill Staphylococcus aureus and worse clinical outcomes. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are elevated in adults with ARDS. Whether pediatric ARDS (PARDS) is similarly associated with altered neutrophil expression of ISGs and neutrophil extracellular trap release is not known. Tracheal aspirate fluid and cells were collected within 72 h from seventy-seven intubated children. Primary airway neutrophils were analyzed for differential ISG expression by PCR, STAT1 phosphorylation and markers of degranulation and activation by flow cytometry. Airway fluid was analyzed for the release of NETs by myeloperoxidase-DNA complexes using an ELISA. Higher STAT1 phosphorylation, markers of neutrophil degranulation, activation and NET release were found in children with versus without PARDS. Higher NETs were detected in the airways of children with ventilator-free days less than 20 days. Increased airway cell IFN signaling, neutrophil activation, and NET production is associated with PARDS. Higher levels of airway NETs are associated with fewer ventilator-free days.
Comparison and verification of turbulence Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes closures to model spatially varied flows
Authors: Chipongo Kudzai , Khiadani Mehdi , Sookhak Lari Kaveh
Published: November 2020

The robustness and accuracy of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) models was investigated for complex turbulent flow in an open channel receiving lateral inflow, also known as spatially varied flow with increasing discharge (SVF). The three RANS turbulence models tested include realizable k–ε, shear stress transport k–ω and Reynolds stress model based on their prominence to model jets in crossflows. Results were compared to experimental laser Doppler velocimetry measurements from a previous study. RANS results in the uniform flow region and farther from the jet centreline were more accurate than within the lateral inflow region. On the leeward side of the jet, RANS models failed to capture the downward velocity vectors resulting in major deviations in vertical velocity. Among RANS models minor variations were noted at impingement and near the water surface. Regardless of inadequately predicting complex characteristics of SVF, RANS models matched experimental water surface profiles and proved more superior to the theoretical approach currently used for design purposes.
Regulatory (FoxP3+) T cells and TGF-β predict the response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Koh Jiae , Hur Joon Young , Lee Kyoung Young , Kim Mi Soon , Heo Jae Yeong , Ku Bo Mi , Sun Jong-Mu , Lee Se-Hoon , Ahn Jin Seok , Park Keunchil , Ahn Myung-Ju
Published: November 2020

Antitumor immune responses induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 have been used as therapeutic strategies in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients over the last decade. Favorable antitumor activity to immune checkpoint inhibitors is correlated with high PD-L1 expression, increased tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and decreased suppressive immune cells including Treg cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, or tumor-associated macrophages in various cancer types. In this study, we investigated the potential correlation between clinical outcomes and peripheral blood immune cell profiles, specifically focused on FoxP3+Treg cells, collected at baseline and one week after anti-PD-1 therapy in two independent cohorts of patients with NSCLC: a discovery cohort of 83 patients and a validation cohort of 49 patients. High frequencies of circulating Treg cells one week after anti-PD-1 therapy were correlated with a high response rate, longer progression-free survival, and overall survival. Furthermore, high levels of TGF-β and Treg cells were associated with favorable clinical outcomes. Our results suggest that higher levels of FoxP3+Treg cells and TGF-β can predict a favorable response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Evolution from adherent to suspension: systems biology of HEK293 cell line development
Authors: Malm Magdalena , Saghaleyni Rasool , Lundqvist Magnus , Giudici Marco , Chotteau Veronique , Field Ray , Varley Paul G. , Hatton Diane , Grassi Luigi , Svensson Thomas , Nielsen Jens , Rockberg Johan
Published: November 2020

The need for new safe and efficacious therapies has led to an increased focus on biologics produced in mammalian cells. The human cell line HEK293 has bio-synthetic potential for human-like production attributes and is currently used for manufacturing of several therapeutic proteins and viral vectors. Despite the increased popularity of this strain we still have limited knowledge on the genetic composition of its derivatives. Here we present a genomic, transcriptomic and metabolic gene analysis of six of the most widely used HEK293 cell lines. Changes in gene copy and expression between industrial progeny cell lines and the original HEK293 were associated with cellular component organization, cell motility and cell adhesion. Changes in gene expression between adherent and suspension derivatives highlighted switching in cholesterol biosynthesis and expression of five key genes (RARG, ID1, ZIC1, LOX and DHRS3), a pattern validated in 63 human adherent or suspension cell lines of other origin.
Potential effect of bio-surfactants on sea spray generation in tropical cyclone conditions
Authors: Vanderplow Breanna , Soloviev Alexander V. , Dean Cayla W. , Haus Brian K. , Lukas Roger , Sami Muhammad , Ginis Isaac
Published: November 2020

Despite significant improvement in computational and observational capabilities, predicting intensity and intensification of major tropical cyclones remains a challenge. In 2017 Hurricane Maria intensified to a Category 5 storm within 24 h, devastating Puerto Rico. In 2019 Hurricane Dorian, predicted to remain tropical storm, unexpectedly intensified into a Category 5 storm and destroyed the Bahamas. The official forecast and computer models were unable to predict rapid intensification of these storms. One possible reason for this is that key physics, including microscale processes at the air-sea interface, are poorly understood and parameterized in existing forecast models. Here we show that surfactants significantly affect the generation of sea spray, which provides some of the fuel for tropical cyclones and their intensification, but also provides some of the drag that limits intensity and intensification. Using a numerical model verified with a laboratory experiment, which predicts spray radii distribution starting from a 100 μm radius, we show that surfactants increase spray generation by 20–34%. We anticipate that bio-surfactants affect heat, energy, and momentum exchange through altered size distribution and concentration of sea spray, with consequences for tropical cyclone intensification or decline, particularly in areas of algal blooms and near coral reefs, as well as in areas affected by oil spills and dispersants.
Rich polymorphism in nicotinamide revealed by melt crystallization and crystal structure prediction
Authors: Li Xizhen , Ou Xiao , Wang Bingquan , Rong Haowei , Wang Bing , Chang Chao , Shi Baimei , Yu Lian , Lu Ming
Published: November 2020

Overprediction is a major limitation of current crystal structure prediction (CSP) methods. It is difficult to determine whether computer-predicted polymorphic structures are artefacts of the calculation model or are polymorphs that have not yet been found. Here, we reported the well-known vitamin nicotinamide (NIC) to be a highly polymorphic compound with nine solved single-crystal structures determined by performing melt crystallization. A CSP calculation successfully identifies all six Z′ = 1 and 2 experimental structures, five of which defy 66 years of attempts at being explored using solution crystallization. Our study demonstrates that when combined with our strategy for cultivating single crystals from melt microdroplets, melt crystallization has turned out to be an efficient tool for exploring polymorphic landscapes to better understand polymorphic crystallization and to more effectively test the accuracy of theoretical predictions, especially in regions inaccessible by solution crystallization.
Real-time characterization of mammalian cell culture bioprocesses by magnetic sector MS
Authors: Floris Patrick , Dorival-García Noemí , Lewis Graham , Josland Graham , Merriman Daniel , Bones Jonathan
Published: November 2020

Mammalian cell culture processes were characterized upon the analysis of the exhaust-gas composition achieved through the on-line integration of a magnetic sector MS analyser with benchtop bioreactors.
GAM-3: a zeolite formed from AlPO4-5viamultistep structural changes
Authors: Komura Kenichi , Aoki Hisakazu , Tanaka Kentaro , Ikeda Takuji
Published: November 2020

A new zeolite GAM-3 formed from a zeoliteviamultistep structural changes.
Charge transport in pyroprotein-based electronic yarns
Authors: Jeon Jun Woo , Jang Hyun-Seok , Jung Won Taek , Kim Byung Hoon
Published: November 2020

Temperature-dependent charge transport properties of pyroprotein-based electronic yarns fabricated from pyrolysis of commercial silk with different heat treatment temperatures were analyzed for the first time.
Theoretical investigation on graphene-supported single-atom catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction
Authors: Wang Xiting , Niu Huan , Liu Yuanshuang , Shao Chen , Robertson John , Zhang Zhaofu , Guo Yuzheng
Published: November 2020

TM atoms supported on the graphene sheet (TM@Grs) as promising CO2 catalysts were investigated by first-principles calculations. Cr-, Co- and Rh@Grs show remarkable performance with the low limiting potentials for CO2RR.
Impact of the synthetic approach on the magnetic properties and homogeneity of mixed crystals of tunable layered ferromagnetic coordination polymers
Authors: Wellm Carsten , Majcher-Fitas Anna M. , Rams Michał , Näther Christian
Published: November 2020

Different synthetic routes were applied to synthesize mixed crystals of [CoxNi1−x(NCS)2(4-tert-butylpyridine)2]n that finally results in homogeneous samples for which the critical temperature can be tuned as function of the Co : Ni ratio.
Zinc(ii) and copper(ii) complexes as tools to monitor/inhibit protein phosphorylation events
Authors: Mateus Pedro , Delgado Rita
Published: November 2020

A perspective on the advance of copper(ii) and zinc(ii) complexes of varied ligand architectures as binders of phosphorylated peptides/proteins and as sensors of phosphorylation reactions is presented.
A phytophotonic approach to enhanced photosynthesis
Authors: Kunz Larissa Y. , Redekop Petra , Ort Donald R. , R. Grossman Arthur , Cargnello Matteo , Majumdar Arun
Published: November 2020

Novel means of using photoluminescent materials to increase photosynthetic efficiency are proposed and evaluated.
Correction: Spruce milled wood lignin: linear, branched or cross-linked?
Authors: Balakshin Mikhail , Capanema Ewellyn Augsten , Zhu Xuhai , Sulaeva Irina , Potthast Antje , Rosenau Thomas , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: November 2020

Correction for ‘Spruce milled wood lignin: linear, branched or cross-linked?’ by Mikhail Balakshin et al., Green Chem., 2020, 22, 3985–4001, DOI: 10.1039/D0GC00926A.
Novel peptide-directed liposomes for targeted combination therapy of breast tumors
Authors: Zhang Kaiyue , Fang Xiaocui , You Qing , Lin Yuchen , Ma Lilusi , Xu Shilin , Ge Yangyang , Xu Haiyan , Yang Yanlian , Wang Chen
Published: November 2020

pLipo-DOX–ICG demonstrates active targeting behavior for delivery and controllable release of chemotherapeutic drugs to CXCR4-overexpressing tumor ccells.
Unravelling neurological disorders through metallomics-based approaches
Authors: de Jesus Jemmyson Romário , Arruda Marco Aurélio Zezzi
Published: November 2020

Understanding the biological process involving metals and biomolecules in the brain is essential for establishing the origin of neurological disorders, such as neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. From this perspective, this critical review presents recent advances in this topic, showing possible mechanisms involving the disruption of metal homeostasis and the pathogenesis of neurological disorders. We also discuss the main challenges observed in metallomics studies associated with neurological disorders, including those related to sample preparation and analyte quantification.
The radicalversusionic mechanisms of reduced cobalamin inactivation bytert-butyl hydroperoxide and hydrogen peroxide in aqueous solution
Authors: Salnikov Denis S. , Makarov Sergei V. , Koifman Oscar I.
Published: November 2020

It was demonstrated that antioxidants cannot protect reduced cobalamin against its modification by hydrogen peroxide.
Gold nanobipyramid-embedded silver–platinum hollow nanostructures for monitoring stepwise reduction and oxidation reactions
Authors: Xu Juan , Yun Qinru , Wang Changshun , Li Manman , Cheng Si , Ruan Qifeng , Zhu Xingzhong , Kan Caixia
Published: November 2020

Gold nanobipyramid-embedded AgPt hollow nanostructures were synthesized under different conditions (temperature and surfactant) and are a promising surface-enhanced Raman scattering probe for monitoring stepwise reduction and oxidation reactions.
Experimental signature of a topological quantum dot
Authors: Rider Marie S. , Sokolikova Maria , Hanham Stephen M. , Navarro-Cía Miguel , Haynes Peter D. , Lee Derek K. K. , Daniele Maddalena , Cestelli Guidi Mariangela , Mattevi Cecilia , Lupi Stefano , Giannini Vincenzo
Published: November 2020

Topological insulator nanoparticles (TINPs) host topologically protected Dirac surface states, just like their bulk counterparts.
Facile C–H iodination of electron deficient benzodithiophene-S,S-tetraoxide for the development of n-type polymers
Authors: Adhikari Santosh , Ren Yi Xin , Stefan Mihaela C. , Nelson Toby L.
Published: November 2020

A C–H iodination reaction of the electron-poor building block, benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b0]-dithiophene-1,1,5,5-tetraoxide has been reported. This facile functionalization has led to the development of two novel n-type donor–acceptor conjugated polymers.
Fred Wudl. A giant in π-conjugated materials
Authors: Zhang Qichun , Perepichka Dmitrii F. , Meng Hong , Chen Yongsheng
Published: November 2020

Qichun Zhang, Dmitrii F. Perepichka, Hong Meng and Yongsheng Chen introduce the Materials Chemistry Frontiers themed issue celebrating Professor Fred Wudl's 80th birthday.
Homo-condensation of acetophenones toward imidazothiones
Authors: Pham Phuc Hoang , Thien Nguyen Phuc Thai , Bui Thuy Thu , Tra Hien Nhat , Nguyen Tung Thanh , Son Phan Nam Thanh
Published: November 2020

Synthesis of imidazothiones from acetophenones is reported for the first time. The use of a wide range of functionalities and heterocycles was well tolerated.
Ce regulated surface properties of Mn/SAPO-34 for improved NH3-SCR at low temperature
Authors: Chen Qizhi , Yang Yong , Luo Hang , Liu Zuohua , Tong Zhangfa , Tao Changyuan , Du Jun
Published: November 2020

Ce modified MnOx/SAPO-34 was prepared and investigated for low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NOx with ammonia (NH3-SCR).
Lichen-like anchoring of MoSe2 on functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes: an efficient electrode for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Karade Swapnil S. , Nimbalkar Ajaysing S. , Eum Jeong-Hyun , Kim Hansung
Published: November 2020

Simple and scalable chemical synthesis approach to develop a MoSe2/MWCNTs composite thin film electrode for a highly efficient asymmetric supercapacitor cell.
Insight into the enhanced photocatalytic activity of Mo and P codoped SrTiO3from first-principles prediction
Authors: Wang Yueqin , Wang Jingyu , Lian Wei , Liu Yin
Published: November 2020

In this study, the synergistic effect of cation codoping (Mo and the cation P) on the band structure of SrTiO3is demonstrated to enhance its photocatalytic activity.
Relationship between surface hydrophobicity and flux for membrane separation
Authors: Kang Gil-Seon , Baek Youngbin , Yoo Ji-Beom
Published: November 2020

This study demonstrated that hydrophobic pore surfaces and hydrophilic membrane surfaces are more favorable in enhancing water flux, providing an important insight into the development of high performance membranes.
Synthesis and evaluation of new heteroaryl nitrones with spin trap properties
Authors: Barriga-González G. , Aliaga C. , Chamorro E. , Olea-Azar C. , Norambuena E. , Porcal W. , González M. , Cerecetto H.
Published: November 2020

A new series of heteroaryl nitrones were synthesized and evaluated as free radical traps due to the results showed in our previous report.
Towards more effective beryllium chelation: an investigation of second-sphere hydrogen bonding
Authors: Dais Tyson N. , Nixon David J. , Brothers Penelope J. , Henderson William , Plieger Paul G.
Published: November 2020

Secondary-sphere H-bonding is shown to strengthen the binding of tetra-dentate pyridyl-derived ligands towards beryllium.
From “S” to “O”: experimental and theoretical insights into the atmospheric degradation mechanism of dithiophosphinic acids
Authors: Wang Zhipeng , Zhang Yixiang , Liu Jingjing , Song Lianjun , Wang Xueyu , Yang Xiuying , Xu Chao , Li Jun , Ding Songdong
Published: November 2020

The oxidation behavior and mechanism of five typical DPAH ligands in the air was systematically studied through experimental and theoretical methods.
Investigating high school chemistry teachers’ assessment item generation processes for a solubility lab
Authors: Schafer Adam G. L. , Yezierski Ellen J.
Published: November 2020

Designing high school chemistry assessments is a complex and difficult task. Although prior studies about assessment have offered teachers guidelines and standards as support to generate quality assessment items, little is known about how teachers engage these supports or enact their own beliefs into practice while developing assessments. Presented in this paper are the results from analyzing discourse among five high school chemistry teachers during an assessment item generation activity, including assessment items produced throughout the activity. Results include a detailed description of the role of knowledge bases embedded within high school chemistry teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge and the processes used to enact these knowledge bases during planned formative assessment design. Implications for chemistry teacher professional development are posited in light of the findings as well as potential future investigations of high school chemistry teacher generation of assessment items.
Delocalization tunable by ligand substitution in [L2Al]n−complexes highlights a mechanism for strong electronic coupling
Authors: Arnold Amela , Sherbow Tobias J. , Bohanon Amanda M. , Sayler Richard I. , Britt R. David , Smith Allison M. , Fettinger James C. , Berben Louise A.
Published: November 2020

Organo-aluminum mixed-valent complexes combine properties of both organic and transition element mixed-valent compounds. This supports delocalized electronic structures that are structurally and electronically tunable.
Designed alpha-helical barrels for charge-selective peptide translocation
Authors: R. Smrithi Krishnan , Puthumadathil Neethu , Shaji Amina H. , Santhosh Kumar K. , Mohan Gayathri , Mahendran Kozhinjampara R.
Published: November 2020

Synthetic alpha-helix based pores for selective sensing of peptides have not been characterized previously.
A biocompatible stapling reaction for in situ generation of constrained peptides
Authors: Morewood Richard , Nitsche Christoph
Published: November 2020

A synthetically straightforward and biocompatible peptide-stapling strategy that can be used directly in biochemical assays to identify constrained enzyme inhibitors.
Colloidal three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks and their application as porous liquids
Authors: Mow Rachel E. , Lipton Andrew S. , Shulda Sarah , Gaulding E. Ashley , Gennett Thomas , Braunecker Wade A.
Published: November 2020

Colloidal COFs suspended in a bulky, size-excluded ionic liquid create a ‘porous liquid’ with enhanced gas uptake.
High-entropy alloys: emerging materials for advanced functional applications
Authors: Wang Xin , Guo Wei , Fu Yongzhu
Published: November 2020

Accompanied by enhancements in the ability to fabricate materials, alloy-based materials have advanced from binary alloy systems to complicated compositions along with affording newer applications, which accelerates the evolution of civilization.
Label-free SERS characterization of snake venoms by exploring the cysteine environs with bone-shaped gold nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Chia-Chi , Lai Yen-Shi , Wang Chih-Hsien , Chau Lai-Kwan , Chen Wenlung
Published: November 2020

A colorimetric pre-test and a fast SERS method are developed to detect proteins in their natural matrices, as demonstrated in the characterization and differentiation of two snake venoms.
A quantitative ratiometric fluorescent Hddb-based MOF sensor and its on-site detection of the anthrax biomarker 2,6-dipicolinic acid
Authors: Chen Xuan-Bo , Qi Cui-Xing , Xu Yu-Bin , Li Hong , Xu Ling , Liu Bing
Published: November 2020

Tb0.875Eu0.125-Hddb and its paper-based sensor are ratiometric fluorescent sensors for DPA with high sensitivity, selectivity, rapid response and durability.
Cyano-bridged perovskite [(CH3)3NOH]2[KM(CN)6], [M: Fe(iii), and Co(iii)] for high-temperature multi-axial ferroelectric applications with enhanced thermal and nonlinear optical performance
Authors: Rok Magdalena , Ciżman Agnieszka , Zarychta Bartosz , Zaręba Jan K. , Trzebiatowska Monika , Mączka Mirosław , Stroppa Alessandro , Yuan Shurong , Phillips Anthony E. , Bator Grażyna
Published: November 2020

Highly stable ferroelectrics with reversible high-temperature phase transitions and switchable nonlinear optical behaviour.
Efficient third harmonic generation from FAPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Rubino Andrea , Huq Tahiyat , Dranczewski Jakub , Lozano Gabriel , Calvo Mauricio E. , Vezzoli Stefano , Míguez Hernán , Sapienza Riccardo
Published: November 2020

Experimental evidence and characterization of nonlinear third harmonic generation from hybrid FAPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals embedded in a porous thin film demonstrate a new potential application of these semiconductors.
Circular RNA expression profiles in umbilical cord blood exosomes from normal and gestational diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Cao Minkai , Zhang Le , Lin Yu , Li Zhengying , Xu Jianjuan , Shi Zhonghua , Chen Zhong , Ma Jinqi , Wen Juan
Published: November 2020

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a novel member of endogenous noncoding RNAs with widespread distribution and diverse cellular functions. Recently, circRNAs have been identified for their enrichment and stability in exosomes. However, the roles of circRNAs from umbilical cord blood exosomes in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurrence and fetus growth remains poorly understood. In the present study, we used microarray technology to construct a comparative circRNA profiling of umbilical cord blood exosomes between GDM patients and controls. We found the exosome particle size was larger, and the exosome concentration was higher in the GDM patients. A total of 88,371 circRNAs in umbilical cord blood exosomes from two groups were evaluated. Of these, 229 circRNAs were significantly up-regulated and 278 circRNAs were significantly down-regulated in the GDM patients. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) biological pathway analyses demonstrated that circRNA parental genes involved in the regulation of metabolic process, growth and development were significantly enriched, which are important in GDM development and fetus growth. Further circRNA/miRNA interactions analysis showed that most of the exosomal circRNAs harbored miRNA binding sites, and some miRNAs were associated with GDM. Collectively, these results lay a foundation for extensive studies on the role of exosomal circRNAs in GDM development and fetus growth.
Low‐profile and low‐cost transmitarray antenna at 122 GHz based on unit‐cells with 1‐bit phase resolution
Authors: Frank M. , Lurz F. , Weigel R. , Koelpin A.
Published: November 2020

This Letter presents the design of a low‐profile and low‐cost transmitarray antenna operating at 122 GHz. The transmitarray design is based on unit‐cells with 1‐bit phase resolution. A single RO4350B substrate layer is used to form the unit‐cells resulting in a total thickness of 0.326 mm. A wideband shift in the transmission phase of is generated by rotating one metal layer of the unit‐cell by . The simulation of the transmitarray with elements and a feed distance of 35 mm shows a maximum directivity of 28 dBi at 122 GHz. Steering angles of and are investigated. Measurements of the fabricated transmitarrays are performed with an open waveguide and a package antenna as feed showing similar results but slightly different maximum relative gain values of 11.8 and 9.5 dB for the version. The measured main beam directions are in good agreement with the simulations and the design values.
Spiking neural P ant optimisation: a novel approach for ant colony optimisation
Authors: Ramachandranpillai R. , Arock M.
Published: November 2020

This Letter introduces an optimisation method that is based on parallelism to simulate the behaviour of foraging ants using spiking neural P (SN P) systems. The proposed method is designed by collaborating several SN P systems to obtain a polynomial time optimal solution. The complexity and reliability of the method have been verified. A theoretical analysis has been performed on the measures of complexity and proved the efficiency of the scheme.
Planetesimal formation at the gas pressure bump following a migrating planet
Authors: Shibaike Y. , Alibert Y.
Published: November 2020

Context. Many scenarios have been proposed to avoid known difficulties in planetesimal formation such as drift or fragmentation barriers. However, in these scenarios planetesimals in general only form at some specific locations in protoplanetary discs. On the other hand, it is generally assumed in planet formation models and population synthesis models that planetesimals are broadly distributed in the protoplanetary disc.

Aims. We propose a new scenario in which planetesimals can form in broad areas of these discs. Planetesimals form at the gas pressure bump formed by a first-generation planet (e.g. formed by pebble accretion) and the formation region spreads inward in the disc as the planet migrates.

Methods. We used a simple 1D Lagrangian particle model to calculate the radial distribution of pebbles in the gas disc perturbed by a migrating embedded planet. We consider that planetesimals form by streaming instability at the points where the pebble-to-gas density ratio on the mid-plane becomes larger than unity. In this work, we fixed the Stokes number of pebbles and the mass of the planet to study the basic characteristics of this new scenario. We also studied the effect of some key parameters, such as the gas disc model, the pebble mass flux, the migration speed of the planet, and the strength of turbulence.

Results. We find that planetesimals form in wide areas of protoplanetary discs provided the flux of pebbles is typical and the turbulence is not too strong. The planetesimal surface density depends on the pebble mass flux and the migration speed of the planet. The total mass of the planetesimals and the orbital position of the formation area strongly depend on the pebble mass flux. We also find that the profile of the planetesimal surface density and its slope can be estimated by very simple equations.

Conclusions. We show that our new scenario can explain the formation of planetesimals in broad areas. The simple estimates we provide for the planetesimal surface density profile can be used as initial conditions for population synthesis models.
Letter to the Editor
Authors: Farrag Ahmed , AlZahrani Eidan , Elsayed Walaa
Published: November 2020

Reply to the Letter to the Editor concerning “Cross-Cultural
Adaptation and Validation of the Arabic Version of the Intermittent and Constant
Osteoarthritis Pain Questionnaire” Sports Med Int Open 2020; 4(01):
E8–E12; DOI: 10.1055/a-1031-0947
Endovenöse Radiofrequenzablation
Authors: Fink Christine
Published: November 2020

Die Radiofrequenzablation (RFA) ist seit 1998 in Deutschland zugelassen und hat sich als schonende, minimalinvasive Methode zur Behandlung der Stammvarikose etabliert. Im Rahmen der RFA wird ein Behandlungskatheter in die betroffene Vene eingebracht und thermisch verschlossen. In diesem Artikel wird der Behandlungsablauf mittels einer detaillierten Schritt-für-Schritt-Anleitung mit Bebilderung der endovenösen thermalen Ablation dargestellt.
Tag-/Nachtvariabilität von Hustenereignissen bei interstitiellen Lungenerkrankungen
Authors: Berger M. , Wollsching-Strobel M. , Majorski D. , Magnet F. S. , Windisch W. , Schwarz S. B.
Published: November 2020

Einleitung Bei Patient*innen mit fibrosierenden Lungenerkrankungen ist neben der Dyspnoe eines der Hauptsymptome dieses Patient*innenkollektives ein trockener Husten. Unklar ist allerdings, wie die 24-Stunden-Variablität dieser Symptomatik ist und ob andere Auskultationsphänomene über den Tagesverlauf zu eruieren sind.

Methodik Bei Patient*innen mit fibrosierenden Lungenerkrankungen wurde eine Langzeitauskultation (LEOSound, Löwenstein Medical GmbH & Co. KG, Medizin-Elektronik, Bad Ems, Deutschland) über 24 Stunden durchgeführt. Dabei wurden sowohl Husten als auch Giemen erfasst. Wesentlich war die Betrachtung in 12-Stunden-Phasen (Tag und Nacht). Die Erfassung erfolgte in Epochen (mindestens ein Ereignis in 30 Sekunden).

Ergebnisse Insgesamt wurden 20 Patient*innen eingeschlossen (6 mit nichtspezifischer interstitieller Pneumonie und 14 mit idiopathischer pulmonaler Fibrose). Es wurden pro 24 Stunden im Mittel 166 Hustenepochen erfasst (Tag/Nacht 116/50; P < 0,001). Zudem wurden 203 Epochen von Giemen erfasst (Tag/Nacht 84/119; P = 0,273). Die Auskultationsphänomene waren weder mit den Werten der Spirometrie, der Ganzkörperplethysmografie noch der Diffusionskapazität korreliert.

Diskussion Die Studie zeigt das klinische Potenzial der Langzeitauskultation bei fibrosierenden Lungenerkrankungen. Insbesondere zeigt die Studie die Bedeutsamkeit des Symptoms Husten. Dabei zeigt sich eine Abnahme des Hustens in der Nacht im Vergleich zum Tag. Im Gegensatz dazu dokumentiert sich allerdings ein nächtlich verstärktes Giemen, dessen Bedeutung für die klinische Praxis noch unklar bleiben muss. Schließlich ergab sich kein Zusammenhang zwischen der Krankheitsschwere, gemessen an der Funktionsdiagnostik, und der Hustensymptomatik.
Labordiagnostik bei gastrointestinalen Tumoren
Authors: Kleber Marcus
Published: November 2020

Das kolorektale Karzinom (KRK) ist einer der häufigsten malignen Tumoren in Deutschland. Einer frühzeitigen Diagnostik kommt große Bedeutung zu. Goldstandard ist hier die Koloskopie. Die aktuelle S3-Leitlinie Kolorektales Karzinom empfiehlt zum KRK-Screening den fäkalen okkulten Bluttest. Für das Monitoring von Patienten vor und nach Tumorresektion werden die Messung des Carcinoembryonalen Antigens (CEA) und der Mikrosatellitenstabilität empfohlen. Für die Auswahl der korrekten Chemotherapie scheint derzeit eine Überprüfung des Mutationsstatus, mindestens des KRAS-Gens und des BRAF-Gens, sinnvoll zu sein. Eine Reihe an neuartigen Tumormarkern befindet sich momentan in der Entwicklung, hat jedoch noch nicht die Reife für eine mögliche Anwendung in der Routinediagnostik erreicht. Den schnellsten Weg in die breite Anwendung können Next-Generation-Sequencing-basierte genetische Tests finden.
JAK-Inhibitoren für die Behandlung hämatoonkologischer Erkrankungen
Authors: Steinbrunn Torsten , Zovko Josip , Kraus Sabrina
Published: November 2020

Die konstitutive Aktivierung des JAK-STAT-Signalwegs ist charakteristisch für die Pathogenese der myeloproliferativen Neoplasien, speziell der primären Myelofibrose, der Polycythaemia vera und der essentiellen Thrombozythämie. Die Einführung von oral verfügbaren JAK-Inhibitoren in die Klinik brachte einen entscheidenden Fortschritt für die pharmakologische Behandlung der Myelofibrose und der Polycythaemia vera, wenngleich damit noch keine Heilung verbunden ist. Im Vordergrund steht die Verbesserung der Lebensqualität der meist älteren Patienten durch Kontrolle krankheitsbedingter konstitutioneller Symptome, Reduktion einer bestehenden Splenomegalie und Vermeidung insbesondere von thromboembolischen Folgekomplikationen. Darüber hinaus kann die Therapie von Myelofibrose-Patienten mit JAK-Inhibitoren jedoch auch deren Krankheitsverlauf verlangsamen und ihr Gesamtüberleben verlängern. Der bislang einzige in Europa zugelassene JAK-Inhibitor Ruxolitinib hemmt die Isoformen JAK1 und JAK2 und besitzt sowohl antiinflammatorisches als auch antiproliferatives Potenzial. Damit zeigt dieser Inhibitor überdies eine gute Wirkung in der Therapie der Graft-versus-Host-Erkrankung nach allogener hämatopoetischer Stammzelltransplantation. Mit Fedratinib, Pacritinib und Momelatinib befinden sich derzeit 3 weitere vielversprechende JAK-Inhibitoren mit etwas unterschiedlichen Wirkprofilen in der klinischen Phase III-Testung. Diese zeigen auch bei Patienten mit unwirksamer oder unverträglicher Vorbehandlung mit Ruxolitinib Wirksamkeit, sodass eine kontinuierliche Weiterentwicklung der entsprechenden Therapiestrategien abzusehen ist.
Review and Consensus on Pharmacogenomic Testing in Psychiatry
Authors: Bousman Chad A. , Bengesser Susanne A. , Aitchison Katherine J. , Amare Azmeraw T. , Aschauer Harald , Baune Bernhard T. , Asl Bahareh Behroozi , Bishop Jeffrey R. , Burmeister Margit , Chaumette Boris , Chen Li-Shiun , Cordner Zachary A. , Deckert Jürgen , Degenhardt Franziska , DeLisi Lynn E. , Folkersen Lasse , Kennedy James L. , Klein Teri E. , McClay Joseph L. , McMahon Francis J. , Musil Richard , Saccone Nancy L. , Sangkuhl Katrin , Stowe Robert M. , Tan Ene-Choo , Tiwari Arun K. , Zai Clement C. , Zai Gwyneth , Zhang Jianping , Gaedigk Andrea , Müller Daniel J
Published: November 2020

The implementation of pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing in psychiatry remains modest, in part due to divergent perceptions of the quality and completeness of the evidence base and diverse perspectives on the clinical utility of PGx testing among psychiatrists and other healthcare providers. Recognizing the current lack of consensus within the field, the International Society of Psychiatric Genetics assembled a group of experts to conduct a narrative synthesis of the PGx literature, prescribing guidelines, and product labels related to psychotropic medications as well as the key considerations and limitations related to the use of PGx testing in psychiatry. The group concluded that to inform medication selection and dosing of several commonly-used antidepressant and antipsychotic medications, current published evidence, prescribing guidelines, and product labels support the use of PGx testing for 2 cytochrome P450 genes (CYP2D6, CYP2C19). In addition, the evidence supports testing for human leukocyte antigen genes when using the mood stabilizers carbamazepine (HLA-A and HLA-B), oxcarbazepine (HLA-B), and phenytoin (CYP2C9, HLA-B). For valproate, screening for variants in certain genes (POLG, OTC, CSP1) is recommended when a mitochondrial disorder or a urea cycle disorder is suspected. Although barriers to implementing PGx testing remain to be fully resolved, the current trajectory of discovery and innovation in the field suggests these barriers will be overcome and testing will become an important tool in psychiatry.