bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OS ALUNOS DO ENSINO MÉDIO E A UNIVERSIDADE: QUAIS AS SUAS EXPECTATIVAS?
Authors: Junior Rubens Zampar , Andrade Maria de Fátima Ramos , Aparício Ana Silvia Moço
Published: July 2021

O objetivo é investigar as expectativas e os dilemas que os alunos do Ensino Médio têm acerca do papel da universidade. Diante da perspectiva de conhecer estas variáveis e construir uma relação mais adequada entre os dois contextos – escola e universidade –, realizamos uma investigação descritivo-analítica, de natureza qualitativa. Os alunos responderam a questionários e, para a análise dos dados, recorremos à análise de conteúdo, de Laurence Bardin, como procedimento metodológico. As respostas foram categorizadas e interpretadas. Os resultados mostram ações que precisam ser executadas pelas instituições com vistas a dar apoio aos adolescentes, tanto no âmbito da conclusão dos estudos no Ensino Médio quanto para uma transição mais adequada para a universidade.
MODELAGEM MATEMÁTICA NA PERSPECTIVA DAS CRIANÇAS
Authors: Alves Lilia Cristina Dos Santos Diniz , Souza Elizabeth Gomes
Published: July 2021

Este artigo apresenta a constituição de uma atividade de Modelagem Matemática desenvolvida com crianças e na perspectiva delas, respeitando os seus modos de ser e estar no mundo. Esta pesquisa, de natureza qualitativa, é orientada teórico-metodologicamente pela concepção de criança substanciada principalmente em Walter Benjamin, Kohan e Sarmento. Na coleta de dados, recorreu-se a técnicas e instrumentos adequados à pesquisa com crianças, para abordar o tema violência dentro da proposta de Modelagem Matemática. Os participantes do estudo foram 16 crianças entre 5 e 8 anos de idade do 1.º ano dos anos iniciais do ensino fundamental de uma escola pública na cidade de Belém-PA. Os resultados apresentam momentos de uma atividade de Modelagem criados com as crianças e pelas crianças, configurando assim, uma Modelagem não fixa e sem etapas previamente definidas.
Loxapine in patient with clozapine-resistant psychosis
Authors: Erley Jennifer , Goldsborough Sarah , VandenBerg Amy , Audu Alexandra
Published: July 2021

Clozapine is recognized as the drug of choice for treatment-refractory schizophrenia, but use may be limited because of strict monitoring requirements and adverse effects including severe neutropenia, seizures, and myocarditis. Loxapine is a first-generation antipsychotic with similarities to clozapine in both structure and receptor binding. This case describes a 57-year-old male with a history of severe paranoid schizophrenia despite treatment with clozapine and other psychotropic agents, who experienced clinical improvement after a cross titration from clozapine to loxapine. Loxapine may be a reasonable alternative in patients with treatment-refractory schizophrenia who do not tolerate or respond to clozapine.
Evaluation of peripherin in biofluids of patients with motor neuron diseases
Authors: Sabbatini Daniele , Raggi Flavia , Ruggero Susanna , Seguso Mara , Mandrioli Jessica , Cagnin Annachiara , Briani Chiara , Toffanin Elisabetta , Gizzi Matteo , Fortuna Andrea , Bello Luca , Pegoraro Elena , Musso Giulia , Sorarù Gianni
Published: July 2021

Peripherin (PRPH), a type III intermediate filament, assembles with neurofilaments in neurons of the peripheral nervous system, including lower motor neurons (LMN). To evaluate the role of PRPH in LMN degeneration, we assessed PRPH and neurofilament light chain (NfL) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum of 91 patients with motor neuron diseases (MND) and 69 controls. Overall, we found PRPH to be more concentrated in serum than in CSF. Serum PRPH resulted significantly increased in MND patients but it was unrelated to CSF‐NfL or survival in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) subset. PRPH might represent a marker of LMN involvement.
Supercritical CO2‐Assisted SiOx/Carbon Multi‐Layer Coating on Si Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hernandha Rahmandhika Firdauzha Hary , Rath Purna Chandra , Umesh Bharath , Patra Jagabandhu , Huang Chih‐Yang , Wu Wen‐Wei , Dong Quan‐Feng , Li Ju , Chang Jeng‐Kuei
Published: July 2021

Supercritical CO2 (SCCO2), characterized by gas‐like diffusivity, low surface tension, and excellent mass transfer properties, is applied to create a SiOx/carbon multi‐layer coating on Si particles. Interaction of SCCO2 with Si produces a continuous SiOx layer, which can buffer Si volume change during lithiation/delithiation. In addition, a conformal carbon film is deposited around the Si@SiOx core. Compared to the carbon film produced via a conventional wet‐chemical method, the SCCO2‐deposited carbon has significantly fewer oxygen‐containing functional groups and thus higher electronic conductivity. Three types of carbon precursors, namely, glucose, sucrose, and citric acid, in the SCCO2 syntheses are compared. An eco‐friendly, cost‐effective, and scalable SCCO2 process is thus developed for the single‐step production of a unique Si@SiOx@C anode for Li‐ion batteries. The sample prepared using the glucose precursor shows the highest tap density, the lowest charge transfer resistance, and the best Li+ transport kinetics among the electrodes, resulting in a high specific capacity of 918 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1. After 300 charge–discharge cycles, the electrode retains its integrity and the accumulation of the solid electrolyte interphase is low. The great potential of the proposed SCCO2 synthesis and composite anode for Li‐ion battery applications is demonstrated.
Effect of Particle Size and Surface Chemistry of Photon‐Upconversion Nanoparticles on Analog and Digital Immunoassays for Cardiac Troponin
Authors: Brandmeier Julian C. , Raiko Kirsti , Farka Zdeněk , Peltomaa Riikka , Mickert Matthias J. , Hlaváček Antonín , Skládal Petr , Soukka Tero , Gorris Hans H.
Published: July 2021

Sensitive immunoassays are required for troponin, a low‐abundance cardiac biomarker in blood. In contrast to conventional (analog) assays that measure the integrated signal of thousands of molecules, digital assays are based on counting individual biomarker molecules. Photon‐upconversion nanoparticles (UCNP) are an excellent nanomaterial for labeling and detecting single biomarker molecules because their unique anti‐Stokes emission avoids optical interference, and single nanoparticles can be reliably distinguished from the background signal. Here, the effect of the surface architecture and size of UCNP labels on the performance of upconversion‐linked immunosorbent assays (ULISA) is critically assessed. The size, brightness, and surface architecture of UCNP labels are more important for measuring low troponin concentrations in human plasma than changing from an analog to a digital detection mode. Both detection modes result approximately in the same assay sensitivity, reaching a limit of detection (LOD) of 10 pg mL−1 in plasma, which is in the range of troponin concentrations found in the blood of healthy individuals.
Marine Fouling Characteristics of Biocomposites in a Coral Reef Ecosystem
Authors: Contardi Marco , Montano Simone , Galli Paolo , Mazzon Giulia , Mah'd Moh'd Ayyoub Amin , Seveso Davide , Saliu Francesco , Maggioni Davide , Athanassiou Athanassia , Bayer Ilker S.
Published: July 2021

Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems in the world. The diversity of life found in the habitats created by corals is so large that the reefs are known as the “rainforests of the sea.” Unfortunately, severe natural and anthropogenic changes such as ocean warming, acidification, coral diseases, and plastic pollution are extremely detrimental to this ecosystem. To enrich the ambient conditions of the corals and boost their growth, the potential of two biocomposites is evaluated based on biodegradable polyurethane and silicone matrices as scaffolds for the growth of oceanic organisms. Furthermore, their degradation is investigated within the coral reefs of Faafu Atoll, Republic of Maldives. The observations indicate that there are a significant number of organisms that settle and grow on these biocomposites in the Maldivian lagoon, both of an animal and photosynthetic nature. The biocomposites have the potential to become suitable scaffolds for diverse hard bottom fouling organisms. Moreover, the presence of coral larvae on the biocomposites suggests that during their biodegradation, these biocomposites can support the growth of organisms, generating a suitable environment for triggering the birth of new corals.
Ammonia volatilization from fertilizer sources on a loam soil in Idaho
Authors: Dari Biswanath , Rogers Christopher W
Published: July 2021

Optimizing crop N uptake while minimizing NH3 volatilization from N fertilizer sources is a critical part of agricultural best management practices. Urea is the most widely used N fertilizer but is also one of the most susceptible to losses as NH3. Fertilizer sources and additives can be used to reduce NH3 volatilization. Specifically, urease inhibitors [e.g., N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT)] can reduce NH3 volatilization from urea. A novel fused ammonium sulfate nitrate (ASN) product has recently been developed as another potential alternative N fertilizer source but has not been studied widely. A field study was performed to quantify NH3 volatilization from the newly available ASN fertilizer as compared with various N fertilizers (ammonium sulfate [AS] and urea) including urea treated with the urease inhibitor NBPT in an alkaline calcareous loam soil in Idaho. Further, we assessed NH3 volatilization from surface applied and incorporated N fertilizers from these various N sources. Untreated surface‐applied urea volatilized the highest amount of NH3, whereas incorporation of N fertilizers was effective in reducing volatilization as compared with untreated surface‐applied urea. Our study indicated that the N fertilizer sources (AS, ASN, and urea+NBPT) were equally effective in reducing NH3 volatilization when compared with surface‐applied urea. Our study will help refine N fertilizer management under multiple field situations and traditional management practices of crop producers in the western United States. Further, site‐years and study locations would be needed to provide evidence of the effectiveness of ASN in reducing NH3 volatilization under a wider range of soil and environmental conditions.
Replacing fallow with warm‐season annual crops in dryland wheat systems
Authors: Carr Patrick , Fordyce Simon Isaac , Lachowiec Jennifer , Bishop Sherry , Fryer Heather Kristen , Dahlhausen Sally
Published: July 2021

Rotating wheat (Triticum spp.) with fallow is a popular practice in the North American Great Plains, in spite of environmental degradation and economic inefficiencies. Two‐year crop sequences were established in four fields in central Montana to determine if grain yield could be maintained when wheat followed warm‐season annual crops compared with fallow in shallow (soil depth ≤650 mm) dryland soils. More than 15 warm‐season species along with three crop mixtures were managed as cover, forage, and grain or seed crops in the 1st year. Differences were not detected in volumetric soil water content (VWC) following fallow and warm‐season crops (P > .8). Wheat yield following fallow averaged 2.1 Mg ha–1 and was comparable following warm‐season broadleaf crops and grass‐broadleaf crop mixtures (2.0 Mg ha–1, P > .50), while trending downward slightly following grasses (1.9 Mg ha–1, P = .08). Previous crop management (cover, forage, and grain or seed crop) did not affect subsequent wheat yield (P = .98), but did affect wheat grain protein (P < .01). Wheat grain protein concentration was higher following fallow (124 g kg–1) than warm‐season grass and broadleaf crops, as well as mixtures (116 g kg–1), but was below the 132 g kg–1 threshold indicating N deficiency, regardless of previous‐year treatment. These results indicate that grain yield of wheat can be maintained following warm‐season annual crops compared with fallow in central Montana and similar semi‐arid environments with shallow soils, though soil N supplementation is needed to optimize grain yield and quality.
Overall survival after recurrence in stage I–III colorectal cancer patients in accordance with the recurrence organ site and pattern
Authors: Sawayama Hiroshi , Miyamoto Yuji , Hiyoshi Yukiharu , Ogawa Katsuhiro , Kato Rikako , Akiyama Takahiko , Kiyozumi Yuki , Yoshida Naoya , Baba Hideo
Published: July 2021

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the prognosis after recurrence in patients with stage I–III colon cancer (CC) and rectal cancer (RC).

Methods

Cancer recurred in 116 (15.2%) out of 763 patients with stage I–III colorectal cancer. The overall survival (OS) after recurrence was evaluated based on the recurrence organs and patterns.

Results

The first recurrence occurred in the lungs, livers, lymph nodes, and other sites in 32, 22, 12, and 2 patients, respectively. It was localized, disseminated, and involved two or more organs in 14, 9, and 25 patients, respectively. Patients with CC had a shorter OS after recurrence as compared to those with RC (P = .0103). Compared to other organ metastasis, liver metastasis was associated with an earlier recurrence (P = .0026) and shorter OS after recurrence (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.216; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.052–4.459; P = .0370). Lung metastasis was associated with a more favorable prognosis as compared to other organ recurrences (HR: 0.338; 95% CI: 0.135–0.741; P = .0057). One‐organ recurrence and oligometastasis were observed in 78.4% and 49.1% of the patients, respectively. The 5‐y OS rates of patients with one‐organ recurrence and oligometastasis were 47.5% and 71.7%, respectively. Invasive treatment was associated with a favorable prognosis (P < .0001).

Conclusions

Liver metastasis and dissemination were associated with a shorter OS after recurrence. Approximately 50% of the patients experienced oligometastasis, which was associated with a favorable prognosis. Hence, to improve patient prognosis it is better to perform invasive treatments when possible.
Comprehending Cornales: phylogenetic reconstruction of the order using the Angiosperms353 probe set
Authors: Thomas Shawn K. , Liu Xiang , Du Zhi‐Yuan , Dong Yibo , Cummings Amanda , Pokorny Lisa , Xiang Qui‐Yun (Jenny) , Leebens‐Mack James H.
Published: July 2021

Premise

Cornales is an order of flowering plants containing ecologically and horticulturally important families, including Cornaceae (dogwoods) and Hydrangeaceae (hydrangeas), among others. While many relationships in Cornales are strongly supported by previous studies, some uncertainty remains with regards to the placement of Hydrostachyaceae and to relationships among families in Cornales and within Cornaceae. Here we analyzed hundreds of nuclear loci to test published phylogenetic hypotheses and estimated a robust species tree for Cornales.

Methods

Using the Angiosperms353 probe set and existing data sets, we generated phylogenomic data for 158 samples, representing all families in the Cornales, with intensive sampling in the Cornaceae.

Results

We curated an average of 312 genes per sample, constructed maximum likelihood gene trees, and inferred a species tree using the summary approach implemented in ASTRAL‐III, a method statistically consistent with the multispecies coalescent model.

Conclusions

The species tree we constructed generally shows high support values and a high degree of concordance among individual nuclear gene trees. Relationships among families are largely congruent with previous molecular studies, except for the placement of the nyssoids and the Grubbiaceae‐Curtisiaceae clades. Furthermore, we were able to place Hydrostachyaceae within Cornales, and within Cornaceae, the monophyly of known morphogroups was well supported. However, patterns of gene tree discordance suggest potential ancient reticulation, gene flow, and/or ILS in the Hydrostachyaceae lineage and the early diversification of Cornus. Our findings reveal new insights into the diversification process across Cornales and demonstrate the utility of the Angiosperms353 probe set.
An artificial intelligence‐assisted diagnostic platform for rapid near‐patient hematology
Authors: Bachar Neta , Benbassat Dana , Brailovsky David , Eshel Yochay , Glück Dan , Levner Daniel , Levy Sarah , Pecker Sharon , Yurkovsky Evgeny , Zait Amir , Sever Cordelia , Kratz Alexander , Brugnara Carlo
Published: July 2021

Hematology analyzers capable of performing complete blood count (CBC) have lagged in their prevalence at the point‐of‐care. Sight OLO (Sight Diagnostics, Israel) is a novel hematological platform which provides a 19‐parameter, five‐part differential CBC, and is designed to address the limitations in current point‐of‐care hematology analyzers using recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision. Accuracy, repeatability, and flagging capabilities of OLO were compared with the Sysmex XN‐Series System (Sysmex, Japan). Matrix studies compared performance using venous, capillary and direct‐from‐fingerprick blood samples. Regression analysis shows strong concordance between OLO and the Sysmex XN, demonstrating that OLO performs with high accuracy for all CBC parameters. High repeatability and reproducibility were demonstrated for most of the testing parameters. The analytical performance of the OLO hematology analyzer was validated in a multicenter clinical laboratory setting, demonstrating its accuracy and comparability to clinical laboratory‐based hematology analyzers. Furthermore, the study demonstrated the validity of CBC analysis of samples collected directly from fingerpricks.
Size‐Controlled Formation of Polymer Janus Discs
Authors: Qiang Xiaolian , Franzka Steffen , Quintieri Giada , Dai Xuezhi , Wong Chin Ken , Gröschel André H.
Published: July 2021

A straightforward method is presented for the preparation of nano‐ to micrometer‐sized Janus discs with controlled shape, size, and aspect ratio. The method relies on cross‐linkable ABC triblock terpolymers and involves first the preparation of prolate ellipsoidal microparticles by combining Shirasu porous glass (SPG) membrane emulsification with evaporation‐induced confinement assembly (EICA). By varying the pore diameter of the SPG membrane, we produce Janus discs with controlled size distributions centered around hundreds of nanometers to several microns. We further transferred the discs to water by mild sulfonation of PS to polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSS) and verified the Janus character by subsequent labelling with cationic nanoparticles. Finally, we show that the sulfonated Janus discs are amphiphilic and can be used as efficient colloidal stabilizers for oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions.
Catalytic SNAr Hydroxylation and Alkoxylation of Aryl Fluorides
Authors: Kang Qi‐Kai , Lin Yunzhi , Li Yuntong , Xu Lun , Li Ke , Shi Hang
Published: July 2021

Nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) is a powerful strategy for incorporating a heteroatom into an aromatic ring by displacement of a leaving group with a nucleophile, but this method is limited to electron‐deficient arenes. We have now established a reliable method for accessing phenols and phenyl alkyl ethers via catalytic SNAr reactions. The method is applicable to a broad array of electron‐rich and neutral aryl fluorides, which are inert under classical SNAr conditions. Although the mechanism of SNAr reactions involving metal arene complexes is hypothesized to involve a stepwise pathway (addition followed by elimination), experimental data that support this hypothesis is still under exploration. Mechanistic studies and DFT calculations suggest either a stepwise or stepwise‐like energy profile. Notably, we isolated a rhodium η5‐cyclohexadienyl complex intermediate with an sp3‐hybridized carbon bearing both a nucleophile and a leaving group.
Hemicyanine‐Based Near‐Infrared Activatable Probes for Imaging and Diagnosis of Diseases
Authors: Zeng Ziling , Liew Si Si , Wei Xin , Pu Kanyi
Published: July 2021

Molecular activatable probes with near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence play a critical role in in vivo imaging of biomarkers for drug screening and disease diagnosis. With structural diversity and high fluorescence quantum yields, hemicyanine dyes have emerged as a versatile scaffold for the construction of activatable optical probes. This Review presents a survey of hemicyanine‐based NIR activatable probes (HNAPs) for in vivo imaging and early diagnosis of diseases. The molecular design principles of HNAPs towards activatable optical signaling against various biomarkers are discussed with a focus on their broad applications in the detection of diseases including inflammation, acute organ failure, skin diseases, intestinal diseases, and cancer. This progress not only proves the unique value of HNAPs in preclinical research but also highlights their high translational potential in clinical diagnosis.
A Neutral Beryllium(I) Radical
Authors: Czernetzki Corinna , Arrowsmith Merle , Fantuzzi Felipe , Gärtner Annalena , Tröster Tobias , Krummenacher Ivo , Schorr Fabian , Braunschweig Holger
Published: July 2021

The reduction of a cyclic alkyl(amino)carbene (CAAC)‐stabilized organoberyllium chloride yields the first neutral beryllium radical, which was characterized by EPR, IR, and UV/Vis spectroscopy, X‐ray crystallography, and DFT calculations.
Antibacterial properties of polyaniline derivatives
Authors: Andriianova Anastasiia N. , Latypova Lyaysan R. , Vasilova Liliya Ya. , Kiseleva Sofia V. , Zorin Vladimir V. , Abdrakhmanov Ildus B. , Mustafin Akhat G.
Published: July 2021

This work presents a detailed study on the effect of various functional groups both at the ortho position of the aromatic ring and in the amino group of PANI on the antibacterial properties of polymers against gram‐positive (Bacillus subtilis) and gram‐negative (Pseudomonas aureofaciens) microorganisms. It was found that incorporation of methyl, methoxy, or pentyl groups into the ortho‐position of PANI did not increase the antibacterial activity but in most cases causes a significant decrease in the antibacterial properties of functionally substituted polyanilines. At the same time, PANI derivatives modified by incorporation of pentyl groups into the amino group were found to be more efficient antibacterial compounds against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative microorganisms than the original polymer. It was also found that N‐substituted PANI derivatives manifest not only bactericidal but also bacteriostatic properties toward the test microorganisms. Varying the nature and position of the substituent allowed us to conclude that the synthesis of various N‐substituted PANI derivatives with a high degree of doping is the most promising approach to PANI modification for application in bacterial growth inhibition.
FDEM and ERT measurements for archaeological prospections at Nuraghe S'Urachi (West‐Central Sardinia)
Authors: Deiana Rita , Deidda Gian Piero , Cusí Enrique Díes , van Dommelen Peter , Stiglitz Alfonso
Published: July 2021

Nuraghe S'Urachi is a monumental architectural complex in West Central Sardinia that was probably first built in the Bronze Age and remained occupied continuously into the early Roman Imperial period. It has been the object of systematic and large‐scale archaeological investigations in three different phases since 1948 when the first excavations revealed a complex building within a massive defensive wall and multiple towers. Intermittent fieldwork between the 1980s and 2005 subsequently showed that the central nuraghe might comprise up to five principal towers. In 2013, a new collaborative research project, sponsored by Brown University and the Municipality of San Vero Milis, brought together a multidisciplinary research project to investigate this important archaeological site. In this framework, multi‐frequency and multi‐coil electromagnetic measurements (FDEM) and Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) were carried out in 2018, 2019, and 2020, over and close to the nuraghe towers, to gain a better understanding of the inner part of the main structure and to investigate the surrounding area that was intensively settled in Phoenician and Punic times. The preliminary results of the geophysical measurements provide new and interesting evidence that supports new hypotheses and suggests possible future archaeological and geophysical strategies to investigate the unexcavated part of the archaeological site of S'Urachi.
Recent Progress in High‐Performance Lithium Sulfur Batteries: The Emerging Strategies for Advanced Separators/Electrolytes Based on Nanomaterials and Corresponding Interfaces
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiao , Deng Nanping , Wei Liying , Yang Qi , Xiang Hengying , Wang Meng , Cheng Bowen , Kang Weimin
Published: July 2021

Lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries, possessing excellent theoretical capacities, low cost and nontoxicity, are one of the most promising energy storage battery systems. However, poor conductivity of elemental S and the “shuttle effect” of lithium polysulfides hinder the commercialization of Li−S batteries. These problems are closely related to the interface problems between the cathodes, separators/electrolytes and anodes. The review focuses on interface issues for advanced separators/electrolytes based on nanomaterials in Li−S batteries. In the liquid electrolyte systems, electrolytes/separators and electrodes system can be decorated by nano materials coating for separators and electrospinning nanofiber separators. And, interface of anodes and electrolytes/separators can be modified by nano surface coating, nano composite metal lithium and lithium nano alloy, while the interface between cathodes and electrolytes/separators is designed by nano metal sulfide, nanocarbon‐based and other nano materials. In all solid‐state electrolyte systems, the focus is to increase the ionic conductivity of the solid electrolytes and reduce the resistance in the cathode/polymer electrolyte and Li/electrolyte interfaces through using nanomaterials. The basic mechanism of these interface problems and the corresponding electrochemical performance are discussed. Based on the most critical factors of the interfaces, we provide some insights on nanomaterials in high‐performance liquid or state Li−S batteries in the future.
Novel switching signal selection for robust passive sampled‐data control of uncertain continuous switched time‐delay systems
Authors: Lien Chang‐Hua , Hou Yi‐You , Yu Ker‐Wei , Chang Hao‐Chin
Published: July 2021

In this paper, the robust passive sampled‐data controls of uncertain continuous switched time‐delay systems with linear fractional perturbations and aperiodic sampling are considered. By the proposed delay‐dependent linear matrix inequality (LMI)‐based criteria, the switching domains can be selected to design the switching signal and sampled‐data control. If switching signal is known, the feedback control can be designed by using the sampled state at each sampling instant. Some simulations are provided to verify the efficiency of the proposed results. Finally, some numerical examples are illustrated to show the main contribution of the proposed results.
The evolution of socio‐economic disparities in literacy skills from age 15 to age 27 in 20 countries
Authors: Borgonovi Francesca , Pokropek Artur
Published: July 2021

This study contributes to the literature by examining the evolution of socio‐economic disparities in literacy skills between age 15 and 27. It uses combined cross‐sectional data from the Programme for International Student Assessment and the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies in 20 countries and adopts a synthetic cohort approach. In the article we examine if there are differences in the evolution of socio‐economic disparities in literacy between the teenage years and young adulthood among high‐achieving students (90th percentile) and among low‐achieving students (10th percentile) and compare differences across education systems. We used parental education as an indicator of socio‐economic status. Findings indicate that on average, disparities in literacy skills observed at age 15 widen by 15% of a standard deviation by age 27. Such increase is determined by a more pronounced growth in achievement among individuals with tertiary educated parents than among individuals whose parents did not complete tertiary education. The increase in socio‐economic gaps between age 15 and 27 is more pronounced among low‐achieving students. The group that improves the most between age 15 and 27 is low‐achieving individuals with tertiary educated parents. We find that socio‐economic differences in educational attainment, NEET status and use of skills at home and in the workplace explain a large part of socio‐economic disparities in literacy achievement among young adults. Although countries with above‐average disparities at age 15 tend to also display above‐average disparities at age 27, we identify differences across countries.
Rapid and cost‐effective process based on insect larvae for scale‐up production of SARS‐COV‐2 spike protein for serological COVID‐19 testing
Authors: Smith Ignacio , Mc Callum Gregorio Juan , Sabljic Adriana Victoria , Marfia Juan Ignacio , Bombicino Silvina Sonia , Trabucchi Aldana , Iacono Ruben Francisco , Birenbaum Joaquín Manuel , Vazquez Susana Claudia , Minoia Juan Mauricio , Cascone Osvaldo , López María Gabriela , Taboga Oscar , Targovnik Alexandra Marisa , Wolman Federico Javier , Fingermann Matías , Alonso Leonardo Gabriel , Valdez Silvina Noemí , Miranda María Victoria
Published: July 2021

Serology testing for COVID‐19 is important in evaluating active immune response against SARS‐CoV‐2, studying the antibody kinetics, and monitoring reinfections with genetic variants and new virus strains, in particular, the duration of antibodies in virus‐exposed individuals and vaccine‐mediated immunity. In this study, recombinant S protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 was expressed in Rachiplusia nu, an important agronomic plague. One gram of insect larvae produces an amount of S protein sufficient for 150 determinations in the ELISA method herein developed. We established a rapid production process for SARS‐CoV‐2 S protein that showed immunoreactivity for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies and was used as a single antigen for developing the ELISA method with high sensitivity (96.2%) and specificity (98.8%). Our findings provide an efficient and cost‐effective platform for large‐scale S protein production, and the scale‐up is linear, thus avoiding the use of complex equipment like bioreactors.
Biodegradable and biocompatible graphene‐based scaffolds for functional neural tissue engineering: A strategy approach using dental pulp stem cells and biomaterials
Authors: Mansouri Negar , Al‐Sarawi Said , Losic Dusan , Mazumdar Jagan , Clark Jillian , Gronthos Stan , O'Hare Doig Ryan
Published: July 2021

Neural tissue engineering aims to restore the function of nervous system tissues using biocompatible cell‐seeded scaffolds. Graphene‐based scaffolds combined with stem cells deserve special attention to enhance tissue regeneration in a controlled manner. However, it is believed that minor changes in scaffold biomaterial composition, internal porous structure, and physicochemical properties can impact cellular growth and adhesion. The current work aims to investigate in vitro biological effects of three‐dimensional (3D) graphene oxide (GO)/sodium alginate (GOSA) and reduced GOSA (RGOSA) scaffolds on dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in terms of cell viability and cytotoxicity. Herein, the effects of the 3D scaffolds, coating conditions, and serum supplementation on DPSCs functions are explored extensively. Biodegradation analysis revealed that the addition of GO enhanced the degradation rate of composite scaffolds. Compared to the 2D surface, the cell viability of 3D scaffolds was higher (p < 0.0001), highlighting the optimal initial cell adhesion to the scaffold surface and cell migration through pores. Moreover, the cytotoxicity study indicated that the incorporation of graphene supported higher DPSCs viability. It is also shown that when the mean pore size of the scaffold increases, DPSCs activity decreases. In terms of coating conditions, poly‐
l‐lysine was the most robust coating reagent that improved cell‐scaffold adherence and DPSCs metabolism activity. The cytotoxicity of GO‐based scaffolds showed that DPSCs can be seeded in serum‐free media without cytotoxic effects. This is critical for human translation as cellular transplants are typically serum‐free. These findings suggest that proposed 3D GO‐based scaffolds have favorable effects on the biological responses of DPSCs.
Tris(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl) phosphine with Aluminum Oxide Incorporated Polyethylene Separator for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Oh Seong Ho , Lee Giseung , Yim Taeeun
Published: July 2021

Radical‐scavenging Al2O3‐tris(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl) phosphine (TMPP)‐functionalized polyethylene (PE) separator is modified by preparation of the Al2O3‐TMPP composites and embedding them onto the PE separator by dip‐coating process. Scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analyses indicate that Al2O3‐TMPP is well coated onto the PE separator. The Al2O3‐TMPP‐embedded PE separator exhibits a lower contact angle and higher electrolyte uptake than the bare PE separator, indicating a more hydrophilic surface is developed in the Al2O3‐TMPP‐embedded PE separator. The cell cycled with the Al2O3‐TMPP‐embedded PE separator exhibits stable cycling behavior after 150 cycles at high temperature (59.8%) while the cell cycled with a bare PE separator shows a continuous decrease in cycling retention (47.1%). The use of the Al2O3‐TMPP‐embedded PE separator is therefore an effective way to improve the cell cycling retention because it can effectively lower the radical concentration via a chemical scavenging process.
Composition Analysis of Grafted ABS and its Blend Copolymers Using a Combination of 1H NMR Spectroscopy and Nitrogen Element Analysis
Authors: Kim Sohyun , Yu Hyo‐Yeon , Jeong Chan Ho , Choi Eunjeong , Ahn Sangdoo
Published: July 2021

The composition analysis of the acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) copolymer was performed using a method combining elemental analysis and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The physicochemical properties of ABS are determined by the relative contents of the constituent monomers. However, because ABS undergoes a complicated microstructural change during the polymerization process, it is difficult to accurately analyze the relative contents using only a typical method. In this study, a combination of nitrogen elemental analysis and 1H NMR spectroscopy was proposed as an analytical method that can consider the effects of changes in the microstructures. This approach confirmed whether the ABS samples were close to meeting the specifications. In addition, the composition analyses of polylactic acid/ABS blends, polycarbonate/ABS blends, and a polyamide 6/ABS mixture sample indicate that the obtained results were consistent with the expected values, thereby demonstrating that this combined analytical approach can be applied to various types of ABS copolymer systems.
Cochleate Formulation Enhances the Stability of Lansoprazole in Acidic Condition
Authors: Goo Yoon Tae , Jin Chang Hwa , Kim Min Song , Han Sang Beom , Choi Young Wook
Published: July 2021

Lansoprazole (LSP)‐loaded cochleates were developed using dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) and cholesterol in the presence or absence of dicetyl phosphate (DCP). Cochleates containing DCP exhibited unique cylindrical morphologies, resulting in improved LSP loading and enhanced stability in an acidic environment. Thus, we suggest that the use of negatively charged components, such as DCP, is needed to formulate cochleates using a neutrally charged lipid such as DMPC.
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of perineural invasion of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Jingbo , Kang Rui , Tang Daolin
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignant disease with a unique tumor microenvironment surrounded by an interlaced network of cancer and noncancerous cells. Recent works have revealed that the dynamic interaction between cancer cells and neuronal cells leads to perineural invasion (PNI), a clinical pathological feature of PDAC. The formation and function of PNI are dually regulated by molecular (e.g., involving neurotrophins, cytokines, chemokines, and neurotransmitters), metabolic (e.g., serine metabolism), and cellular mechanisms (e.g., involving Schwann cells, stromal cells, T cells, and macrophages). Such integrated mechanisms of PNI not only support tumor development, growth, invasion, and metastasis but also mediate the formation of pain, all of which are closely related to poor disease prognosis in PDAC. This review details the modulation, signaling pathways, detection, and clinical relevance of PNI and highlights the opportunities for further exploration that may benefit PDAC patients.
Rational Design of Programmable Monodisperse Semi‐Synthetic Protein Nanomaterials Containing Engineered Disulfide Functionality**
Authors: Bhandari Pavankumar Janardhan , Sandanaraj Britto S.
Published: July 2021

The reversible nature of disulfide functionality has been exploited to design intelligent materials such as nanocapsules, micelles, vesicles, inorganic nanoparticles, peptide and nucleic acid nanodevices. Herein, we report a new chemical methodology for the construction redox‐sensitive protein assemblies using monodisperse facially amphiphilic protein‐dendron bioconjugates. The disulfide functionality is strategically placed between the dendron and protein domains. The custom designed bioconjugates self‐assembled into nanoscopic objects of a defined size dictated by the nature of dendron domain. The stimuli‐responsive behavior of the protein assemblies is demonstrated using a suitable redox trigger.
An Autophagy‐Disrupting Small Molecule Promotes Cancer Cell Death via Caspase Activation
Authors: Park Sang‐Hyun , Shin Insu , Kim Gun‐Hee , Ko Sung‐Kyun , Shin Injae
Published: July 2021

A novel autophagy inhibitor, autophazole (Atz), which promoted cancer cell death via caspase activation, is described. This compound was identified from cell‐based high‐content screening of an imidazole library. The results showed that Atz was internalized into lysosomes of cells where it induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP). This process generated nonfunctional autolysosomes, thereby inhibiting autophagy. In addition, Atz was found to promote LMP‐mediated apoptosis. Specifically, LMP induced by Atz caused release of cathepsins from lysosomes into the cytosol. Cathepsins in the cytosol cleaved Bid to generate tBid, which subsequently activated Bax to induce mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP). This event led to cancer cell death via caspase activation. Overall, the findings suggest that Atz will serve as a new chemical probe in efforts aimed at gaining a better understanding of the autophagic process.
Less‐invasive diagnosis of disseminated epithelioid glioblastoma harboring BRAF V600E mutation by cerebrospinal fluid analysis—A case report
Authors: Natsumeda Manabu , Kanemaru Yu , Kawaguchi Yukie , Umezu Hajime , Kakita Akiyoshi , Fujii Yukihiko
Published: July 2021

Spinal dissemination in epithelioid glioblastoma can be diagnosed by cerebrospinal fluid cytology and liquid biopsy to detect BRAF V600E mutation.
Improved Operation of Continuous Ozone Hydrate Production
Authors: Hatsugai Tomomi , Kiyokawa Hitoshi , Takeya Satoshi , Ohmura Ryo
Published: July 2021

In a previous study, we have experimentally demonstrated the continuous formation of O3+O2+CO2 hydrate. Here, improved results for the O3+O2+CO2 hydrate formation are reported. By forming O3+O2+CO2 hydrate at a low temperature and higher O3 gas concentration in the gas phase, the O3 concentration in the hydrates was increased to be 0.41 mass %, which was 1.6 times higher than our past record. One‐quarter reduction of the induction time for O3+O2+CO2 hydrate formation was also achieved by raising the initial volume ratio of CO2 in the feed gas in the range of 2–2.9 times that of our previous study. Also, the overall heat transfer coefficient during O3+O2+CO2 hydrate continuous formation was experimentally determined.
Yolk–shell nanoarchitecture for stabilizing a Ce2S3 anode
Authors: Hui Kanglong , Fu Jipeng , Liu Jie , Chen Yongjin , Gao Xiang , Gao Tian , Wei Qi , Li Chengyu , Zhang Hongjie , Tang Mingxue
Published: July 2021

Rare‐earth sulfides are of research interest for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to their abundant lithium intercalation sites and low redox voltage. However, their electrochemical performances are not satisfactory because of poor conductivity and volume change upon electrochemical cycling. Herein, nanoarchitectures of γ‐Ce2S3 encapsulated in a hollow mesoporous carbon nanosphere (Ce2S3@HMCS) are fabricated using the self‐template strategy combined with the in‐sphere sulfuration method and tested as an LIB anode. The void space between the Ce2S3 core and the outer layer of the carbon nanosphere has been properly designed and modulated to achieve excellent electrochemical performance in terms of electronic conductivity, reversibility, and rate capability. The reversible capacity of Ce2S3@HMCS is 2.6 times that of the pure Ce2S3 anode, which can gradually increase and maintain a capacity of 282 mAh·g−1 at a current density of 1 A·g–1, and a high Coulombic efficiency (~100%) can be achieved even after 1000 cycles. This good performance is attributed to the unique yolk–shell nanostructure with a highly crystallized and stable Ce3S2 core and volume expansion buffer space upon lithiation/delithiation. Ex situ X‐ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance results indicate that the lithiation of Ce2S3@HMCS is an intercalation process. This study represents an important advancement in precise structural design with in‐sphere sulfuration and sheds light on a potential direction for high‐performance lithium storage.
DNA‐Triggered Enhancement of Singlet Oxygen Production by Pyridinium Alkynylanthracenes
Authors: Fudickar Werner , Bauch Marcel , Ihmels Heiko , Linker Torsten
Published: July 2021

There is an ongoing interest in 1O2 sensitizers, whose activity is selectively controlled by their interaction with DNA. To this end, we synthesized three isomeric pyridinium alkynylanthracenes 2 o–p and a water‐soluble trapping reagent for 1O2. In water and in the absence of DNA, these dyes show a poor efficiency to sensitize the photooxygenation of the trapping reagent as they decompose due to electron transfer processes. In contrast, in the presence of DNA 1O2 is generated from the excited DNA‐bound ligand. The interactions of 2 o–p with DNA were investigated by thermal DNA melting studies, UV/vis and fluorescence spectroscopy, and linear and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Our studies revealed an intercalative binding with an orientation of the long pyridyl‐alkynyl axis parallel to the main axis of the DNA base pairs. In the presence of poly(dA : dT), all three isomers show an enhanced formation of singlet oxygen, as indicated by the reaction of the latter with the trapping reagent. With green light irradiation of isomer 2 o in poly(dA : dT), the conversion rate of the trapping reagent is enhanced by a factor >10. The formation of 1O2 was confirmed by control experiments under anaerobic conditions, in deuterated solvents, or by addition of 1O2 quenchers. When bound to poly(dG : dC), the opposite effect was observed only for isomers 2 o and 2 m, namely the trapping reagent reacted significantly slower. Overall, we showed that pyridinium alkynylanthracenes are very useful intercalators, that exhibit an enhanced photochemical 1O2 generation in the DNA‐bound state.
Construction of a Single‐Atom Nanozyme for Enhanced Chemodynamic Therapy and Chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Yong , Yao Mei , Han Wenxiu , Zhang Huairong , Zhang Shusheng
Published: July 2021

To fulfill the demand of precision and personalized medicine, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as a frontier in biomedical fields due to enzyme‐mimic catalysis. Herein, we present a biocompatible and versatile nanoagent consisting of single‐atom iron‐containing nanoparticles (SAF NPs), DOX and A549 cell membrane (CM). The designed porous iron‐based SACs originally served as a drug‐carrying nanoplatform to release DOX selectively in a tumor microenvironment (TME) for chemotherapy (CT) due to their high loading capacity (155 %) for DOX; this signifies that SACs are promising candidates for universal cargo delivery. Besides, the designed single‐atom nanoagent can perform like peroxidase, which effectively triggers an in situ tumor‐specific Fenton reaction to generate abundant toxic hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) selectively in the acidic TME for chemodynamic therapy (CDT). With the combination of CDT and CT, the constructed SAF NPs@DOX@CM nanoagent demonstrates better in vivo therapeutic performance than single‐pathway therapy. In the meantime, after modification with CM, SAF NPs@DOX@CM can achieve homologous binding to target tumor tissues and avoid early clearance. This study presents a type of multifunctional SACs for enhanced cancer treatment via the capacity of a drug carrier combined with the enzymatic therapies of single‐atom catalytic sites.
In Situ Synchrotron X‐ray Diffraction Studies of the Mechanochemical Synthesis of ZnS from its Elements
Authors: Petersen Hilke , Reichle Steffen , Leiting Sebastian , Losch Pit , Kersten Wolfgang , Rathmann Tobias , Tseng Jochi , Etter Martin , Schmidt Wolfgang , Weidenthaler Claudia
Published: July 2021

Invited for the cover of this issue is Claudia Weidenthaler and co‐workers at the Max‐Planck‐Institut für Kohlenforschung, Shenzhen University and Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron. The image depicts the X‐ray diffraction results showing the formation of ZnS and the subsequent phase transition from the hexagonal to the cubic modification. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202101260.
Validating cell‐free DNA from supernatant for molecular diagnostics on cytology specimens
Authors: Perrone Marie E. , Alvarez Rebeca , Vo Tawnie T. , Chung Moon‐Wook , Chhieng David C. , Paulson Vera A. , Colbert Brice G. , Q. Konnick Eric , Huang Eric C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Cytology specimens are often used for biomarker testing in the setting of neoplasia. On occasion, formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) cell blocks unfortunately may not yield sufficient material for testing. Recent studies have suggested that residual supernatant fluid from cell block preparation is a valuable source of DNA: both cellular and cell‐free DNA (cfDNA). In the present study, the use of cfDNA from supernatant is compared against DNA from FFPE materials.

Methods

cfDNA was extracted prospectively from residual supernatants of 30 cytology samples (29 neoplastic cases and 1 benign ascitic fluid from a patient with a history of melanoma). Samples were tested using clinically validated next‐generation–sequencing platforms and the results were compared with data from paired FFPE cell blocks in a real‐time prospective clinical setting. Thirteen samples were tested on an amplicon‐based assay (Solid Tumor Hotspot), and 17 samples were tested using a comprehensive capture‐based assay (UW‐Oncoplex).

Results

Neoplastic content was estimated by mutational variant allele fraction, with a mean content of 24.0% and 25.8% in supernatant and FFPE, respectively. The variant concordance between paired samples was 90%, and identical results were detected in both supernatant and FFPE samples in 74% of cases.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that cfDNA from supernatant is a viable alternative to FFPE cell blocks for molecular biomarker testing using both amplicon‐based and capture‐based assays with potential for decreasing additional tissue sampling and faster turnaround time.