bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONSIDERAÇÕES SOBRE A AVALIAÇÃO DO SURDO NA ESCOLA REGULAR
Authors: Corrêa Adriana Moreira de Souza , Pires Aparecida Carneiro
Published: July 2021

Este estudo objetivou identificar pressupostos, recursos e práticas de avaliação para surdos, a fim de refletir sobre as condições que otimizam esse processo. Para tanto, definimos como caminho metodológico a pesquisa exploratória, com base na análise documental e na revisão de literatura, fundamentando-nos em Brasil (1996, 2015), Libâneo (2007), Luckesi (2011), Hoffmann (2011, 2013), entre outros. Assim, apresentamos uma análise bibliográfica qualitativa, baseada na legislação que trata da avaliação pautada no aluno surdo e nos resultados de sete pesquisas que discutem recursos e estratégias com o intuito de aprimorar esse processo. Identificamos a necessidade de formação docente e a parceria de outros profissionais e demais membros da comunidade escolar em prol do desempenho do ensino na avaliação.
Evaluation of drug-drug interactions in hospitalized patients on medications for OUD
Authors: Berger Olivia , Rector Katherine , Meredith Jacqueline , Sebaaly Jamielynn
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Medications used to treat OUD have common metabolic pathways and pharmacodynamic properties that can lead to drug-drug interactions (DDIs) that may go unnoticed in the inpatient setting. The purpose of this study was to identify the frequency of DDIs between medications prescribed for OUD and commonly used inpatient medications.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of orders for buprenorphine, buprenorphine-naloxone, and methadone to identify potential DDIs. Adult inpatients with an order for one of these medications for OUD were included. Medication regimens were evaluated throughout the inpatient stay and on day of discharge for DDIs. DDIs were classified by severity and type of interaction (increased risk of QT prolongation, additive CNS effects/respiratory depression, and opioid withdrawal). The primary endpoint was the number of potential DDIs. Other endpoints included number of each classification/severity of DDI, duration of therapy of interacting medications, and modifications made to OUD medications because of DDIs.

Results

A total of 102 patients were included, with 215 inpatient interactions and 83 interactions at discharge identified. While inpatient, 85% of patients were on an interacting medication, and 46% of patients were on an interacting medication at discharge. The most common classification of DDI was additive CNS effects/respiratory depression (68.8% inpatient, 50.6% discharge), followed by QT prolongation (24.2% inpatient, 45.8% discharge). The majority of DDIs were classified as requiring close monitoring rather than contraindicated.

Discussion

There are opportunities to optimize the prescribing practices surrounding OUD medications in both the inpatient setting and at discharge to ensure patient safety.
Effect of cannabis use on PTSD treatment outcomes in veterans
Authors: Petersen Meagan , Koller Katherine , Straley Craig , Reed Ellen
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Researchers have found anandamide (an endocannabinoid) and cannabinoid type 1 receptor activation encourages extinction of aversive memories. Some theorize cannabinoids such as those in cannabis may provide a new treatment approach for PTSD, while others suggest it may worsen symptomology. The objective of the current study was to determine if cannabis use impacts the success of evidence-based intensive outpatient PTSD treatment in a veteran population.

Methods

A list of veterans enrolled in the Battle Creek Veterans' Affairs Medical Center outpatient PTSD Clinical Team Clinic between October 1st, 2008 and October 1st, 2016 was obtained, and a random sample was identified. Study participants were veterans aged 18 to 85 years, with at least 2 PTSD Checklist scores, and a diagnosis of PTSD. Data collected included mental health medications, type and number of evidence-based psychotherapy used, and presence of co-occurring behavioral health diagnoses. The cannabis use group was compared to the no-cannabis-use group, and differences in variables pertaining to the relative number of treatment successes and failures was evaluated for statistical and clinical significance.

Results

The majority of patients were white (87.1%) and male (95%). The success rate was similar between the cannabis and no-cannabis-use groups (51.9% and 51.4%, respectively).

Discussion

The current study did not show that a predominantly white male veteran sample diagnosed with PTSD differed in intensive PTSD treatment success or failure based on cannabis use.
Hyperammonemia in patients receiving valproic acid in the hospital setting: A retrospective review
Authors: McMorris Tressa , Chu Angela , Vu Lynn , Bernardini Amanda
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Valproic acid (VPA) is widely used for the treatment of epilepsy, migraine, and a variety of psychiatric conditions. The reported incidences of hyperammonemia induced by VPA use is variable. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the incidence of VPA-induced hyperammonemia in the general adult inpatient population.

Methods

Adult patients who received at least 1 dose of VPA and derivatives between June 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017 were included. Patients were excluded if they did not have VPA administered during their inpatient stay or if they had elevated ammonia levels (>33 μmol/L) prior to initiation of VPA. Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of liver cirrhosis were also excluded. The primary endpoint was the incidence of hyperammonemia. Secondary outcomes included symptoms of hyperammonemia, diagnosis of VPA-induced hyperammonemia, and treatment of VPA-induced hyperammonemia.

Results

A total of 162 patients were included in this study. A total of 33 (20.4%) patients were identified as having the primary outcome of hyperammonemia; 26 (16.0%) patients had symptoms of hyperammonemia, and 13 (8.0%) patients were diagnosed with VPA-induced hyperammonemia. Treatment modalities included administration of lactulose, levocarnitine, discontinuing VPA, or decreasing the VPA dose.

Discussion

The administration of VPA in the general adult inpatient population resulted in a 20.4% incidence of hyperammonemia, with a lower rate of diagnosed VPA-induced hyperammonemia. Clinicians should be encouraged to obtain ammonia levels in patients receiving VPA if symptoms of altered mental status or encephalopathy develop.
Increase in Cannabis Use Among Adults With Rheumatic Diseases: Results From a 2014–2019 United States Observational Study
Authors: Wipfler Kristin , Simon Teresa A. , Katz Patricia , Wolfe Frederick , Michaud Kaleb
Published: July 2021

Objective

Despite advances in treatments and outcomes among patients with rheumatic diseases, there is an unmet need in pain management. Cannabis has emerged as a potential opioid‐sparing alternative, with arthritic pain as a commonly cited reason for medicinal cannabis use. However, little is known, and we set out to understand patterns of cannabis use in a US‐wide rheumatic disease population.

Methods

The study included participants in FORWARD, The National Databank for Rheumatic Diseases. Participants were asked in 2014 and 2019 about their past and current cannabis use. Demographic characteristics, patient‐reported outcomes, medications, comorbidities, and diagnoses were compared between cannabis users and non‐users with t‐tests, chi‐square tests, logistic regression, and geographic assessment.

Results

Among 11,006 respondents, cannabis use increased from 6.3% in 2014 to 18.4% in 2019, with the greatest prevalence of use in states where cannabis use was legalized. Most users (74% and 62% in 2014 and 2019, respectively) reported that cannabis was effective in the relief of arthritis symptoms. Cannabis users were more likely to be taking weak opioids (odds ratio 1.2 [95% confidence interval 1.0, 1.5], P = 0.03), to have a history of smoking tobacco (odds ratio 1.7 [95% confidence interval 1.5, 2.1], P < 0.001), and had worse measures on all assessed patient‐reported outcomes.

Conclusion

Reported cannabis use in this cohort increased significantly between 2014 and 2019. Characteristics of users suggest that those who try cannabis are feeling worse symptomatically, and their pain management needs may not be adequately addressed by other therapies. The association between cannabis, opioids, and patient‐reported outcomes highlight areas for future work.
Strategic Defect Engineering of Metal–Organic Frameworks for Optimizing the Fabrication of Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: He Jie , Li Na , Li Zhi‐Gang , Zhong Ming , Fu Zi‐Xuan , Liu Ming , Yin Jia‐Cheng , Shen Zhurui , Li Wei , Zhang Jijie , Chang Ze , Bu Xian‐He
Published: July 2021

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have garnered enormous interest due to their remarkable catalysis activity. However, the exploitation of universal synthesis strategy and regulation of coordination environment of SACs remain a great challenge. Herein, a versatile synthetic strategy is demonstrated to generate a series of transition metal SACs (M SAs/NC, M = Co, Cu, Mn; NC represents the nitrogen‐doped carbon) through defect engineering of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). The interatomic distance between metal sites can be increased by deliberately introducing structural defects within the MOF framework, which inhibits metal aggregation and consequently results in an approximately 70% increase in single metal atom yield. Additionally, the coordination structures of metal sites can also be facilely tuned. The optimized Co SAs/NC‐800 exhibits superior activity and excellent reusability for the selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes, surpassing several state‐of‐art non‐noble‐metal catalysts. This study provides a new avenue for the universal fabrication of transition metal SACs.
Anchoring Single Copper Atoms to Microporous Carbon Spheres as High‐Performance Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zong Lingbo , Fan Kaicai , Wu Weicui , Cui Lixiu , Zhang Lili , Johannessen Bernt , Qi Dongchen , Yin Huajie , Wang Yun , Liu Porun , Wang Lei , Zhao Huijun
Published: July 2021

Although the carbon‐supported single‐atom (SA) electrocatalysts (SAECs) have emerged as a new form of highly efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts, the preferable sites of carbon support for anchoring SAs are somewhat elusive. Here, a KOH activation approach is reported to create abundant defects/vacancies on the porous graphitic carbon nanosphere (CNS) with selective adsorption capability toward transition‐metal (TM) ions and innovatively utilize the created defects/vacancies to controllably anchor TM–SAs on the activated CNS via TMNx coordination bonds. The synthesized TM‐based SAECs (TM‐SAs@N‐CNS, TM: Cu, Fe, Co, and Ni) possess superior ORR electrocatalytic activities. The Cu‐SAs@N‐CNS demonstrates excellent ORR and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) bifunctional electrocatalytic activities and is successfully applied as a highly efficient air cathode material for the Zn–air battery. Importantly, it is proposed and validated that the N‐terminated vacancies on graphitic carbons are the preferable sites to anchor Cu‐SAs via a Cu(NC2)3(NC) coordination configuration with an excellent promotional effect toward ORR. This synthetic approach exemplifies the expediency of suitable defects/vacancies creation for the fabrication of high‐performance TM‐based SAECs, which can be implemented for the synthesis of other carbon‐supported SAECs.
Borophene via Micromechanical Exfoliation
Authors: Chahal Sumit , Ranjan Pranay , Motlag Maithili , Yamijala Sharma S. R. K. C. , Late Dattatreya J. , Sadki El Hadi S. , Cheng Gary J. , Kumar Prashant
Published: July 2021

Borophene, the lightest among all Xenes, possesses extreme electronic mobility along with high carrier density and high Young's modulus. To accomplish device‐quality borophene, novel approaches of realization of monolayers need to be urgently explored. In this work, micromechanical exfoliation is discovered to result in mono‐ and few‐layered borophene of device quality. Borophene sheets are successfully fabricated down to monolayer thickness. Distinct crystallographic phases of borophene viz. XRD study reveals crystallographic phase transition from rhombohedral to several other eigen phases of borophene. The role of the destination substrates is held crucial in determining the final phase of the transferred sheet. The exfoliation energy is calculated by density functional theory. Molecular dynamics simulations are used to simulate the exfoliation process. Heterolayers of borophene, with black phosphorene (BP) or with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) atomic sheets, are found to result in photoexcited coupling quantum states. Gold‐coated borophene bestows promising anchoring capability for surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Successful demonstration of the electronic behavior of micromechanically exfoliated borophene and excitonic behavior of borophene‐based heterolayers will guide future generation devices not only in electronics and excitonics, but also in thermal management, electronic packaging, hydrogen storage, hybrid energy storage, and clean energy solutions.
Autonomous Microcapillary Drug Delivery System Self‐Powered by a Flexible Energy Harvester
Authors: Gabrielsson Erik O. , Jung Young Hoon , Han Jae Hyun , Joe Daniel Juhyung , Simon Daniel T. , Lee Keon Jae , Berggren Magnus
Published: July 2021

Implantable bioelectronic devices pave the way for novel biomedical applications operating at high spatiotemporal resolution, which is crucial for neural recording and stimulation, drug delivery, and brain–machine interfaces. Before successful long‐term implantation and clinical applications, these devices face a number of challenges, such as mechanical and operational stability, biocompatibility, miniaturization, and powering. To address two of these crucial challenges—miniaturization and powering—the development and characterization of an electrophoretic drug delivery device, manufactured inside fused quartz fibers (outer diameter of 125 µm), which is self‐powered by a flexible piezoelectric energy harvester, are reported. The resulting device—the first integration of piezoelectric charging with “iontronic” delivery—exhibits a high delivery efficiency (number of neurotransmitters delivered per charges applied) and a direct correlation between the piezoelectric charging and the amount delivered (number of dynamic bends versus pmols delivered).
Metal Ion‐Induced Assembly of MXene Aerogels via Biomimetic Microtextures for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding, Capacitive Deionization, and Microsupercapacitors
Authors: Ding Meng , Li Shuo , Guo Lu , Jing Lin , Gao Si‐Ping , Yang Haitao , Little Joshua M. , Dissanayake Thilini U. , Li Kerui , Yang Jie , Guo Yong‐Xin , Yang Hui Ying , Woehl Taylor J. , Chen Po‐Yen
Published: July 2021

Scaling the synergistic properties of MXene nanosheets to microporous aerogel architectures requires effective strategies to overcome the nanosheet restacking without compromising MXene's advantageous properties. Traditional assembly approaches of 3D MXene aerogels normally involve external binders/templates and/or additional functionalization, which sacrifice the electrical conductivities and electrochemical activities of MXene aerogels. Herein, inspired by the hierarchal scale textures of Phrynosoma cornutum, a crumple‐textured Ti3C2Tx MXene platform is engineered to facilitate Mg2+‐induced assembly, enabling conformal formation of large‐area Mg2+‐MXene aerogels without polymeric binders. Through a doctor blading technique and freeze drying, the Mg2+‐MXene aerogels are produced with customized shapes/dimensions, featuring high surface area (140.5 m2 g−1), superior electrical conductivity (758.4 S m−1), and high robustness in water. The highly conductive MXene aerogels show their versatile applications from macroscale technologies (e.g., electromagnetic interference shielding and capacitive deionization (CDI)) to on‐chip electronics (e.g., quasi‐solid‐state microsupercapacitors (QMSCs)). As CDI electrodes, the Mg2+‐MXene aerogels exhibit high salt adsorption capacity (33.3 mg g−1) and long‐term operation reliability (over 30 cycles), showing a superb comparison with the literature. Also, the QMSCs with interdigitated Mg2+‐MXene aerogel electrodes demonstrate high areal capacitances (409.3 mF cm−2) with superior power density and energy density compared with other state‐of‐art QMSCs.
Tuning Electrostatic Gating of Semiconducting Carbon Nanotubes by Controlling Protein Orientation in Biosensing Devices
Authors: Xu Xinzhao , Bowen Benjamin J. , Gwyther Rebecca E. A. , Freeley Mark , Grigorenko Bella , Nemukhin Alexander V. , Eklöf‐Österberg Johnas , Moth‐Poulsen Kasper , Jones D. Dafydd , Palma Matteo
Published: July 2021

The ability to detect proteins through gating conductance by their unique surface electrostatic signature holds great potential for improving biosensing sensitivity and precision. Two challenges are: (1) defining the electrostatic surface of the incoming ligand protein presented to the conductive surface; (2) bridging the Debye gap to generate a measurable response. Herein, we report the construction of nanoscale protein‐based sensing devices designed to present proteins in defined orientations; this allowed us to control the local electrostatic surface presented within the Debye length, and thus modulate the conductance gating effect upon binding incoming protein targets. Using a β‐lactamase binding protein (BLIP2) as the capture protein attached to carbon nanotube field effect transistors in different defined orientations. Device conductance had influence on binding TEM‐1, an important β‐lactamase involved in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Conductance increased or decreased depending on TEM‐1 presenting either negative or positive local charge patches, demonstrating that local electrostatic properties, as opposed to protein net charge, act as the key driving force for electrostatic gating. This, in turn can, improve our ability to tune the gating of electrical biosensors toward optimized detection, including for AMR as outlined herein.
Carbonyl Hypoiodites as Extremely Strong Halogen Bond Donors
Authors: Yu Shilin , Ward Jas S. , Truong Khai‐Nghi , Rissanen Kari
Published: July 2021

Neutral halogen‐bonded O−I−N complexes were prepared from in situ formed carbonyl hypoiodites and aromatic organic bases. The carbonyl hypoiodites have a strongly polarized iodine atom with larger σ‐holes than any known uncharged halogen bond donor. Modulating the Lewis basicity of the selected pyridine derivatives and carboxylates leads to halogen‐bonded complexes where the classical O−I⋅⋅⋅N halogen bond transforms more into a halogen‐bonded COO−⋅⋅⋅I−N+ ion‐pair (salt) with an asymmetric O−I−N moiety. X‐ray analyses, NMR studies, and calculations reveal the halogen bonding geometries of the carbonyl hypoiodite‐based O−I−N complexes, confirming that in the solid‐state the iodine atom is much closer to the N‐atom of the pyridine derivatives than its original position at the carboxylate O‐atom.
Fused‐Nonacyclic Multi‐Resonance Delayed Fluorescence Emitter Based on Ladder‐Thiaborin Exhibiting Narrowband Sky‐Blue Emission with Accelerated Reverse Intersystem Crossing
Authors: Nagata Masakazu , Min Hyukgi , Watanabe Erika , Fukumoto Hiroki , Mizuhata Yoshiyuki , Tokitoh Norihiro , Agou Tomohiro , Yasuda Takuma
Published: July 2021

Developing organic luminophores with unique capability of strong narrowband emission is both crucial and challenging for the further advancement of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). Herein, a nanographitic fused‐nonacyclic π‐system (BSBS‐N1), which was strategically embedded with multiple boron, nitrogen, and sulfur atoms, was developed as a new multi‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) emitter. Narrowband sky‐blue emission with a peak at 478 nm, full width at half maximum of 24 nm, and photoluminescence quantum yield of 89 % was obtained with BSBS‐N1. Additionally, the spin‐orbit coupling was enhanced by incorporating two sulfur atoms, thereby facilitating the spin‐flipping process between the excited triplet and singlet states. OLEDs based on BSBS‐N1 as a sky‐blue MR‐TADF emitter achieved a high maximum external electroluminescence quantum efficiency of 21.0 %, with improved efficiency roll‐off.
Deuterated Covalent Organic Frameworks with Significantly Enhanced Luminescence
Authors: Yuan Mengjia , Ma Fuyin , Dai Xing , Chen Lixi , Zhai Fuwan , He Linwei , Zhang Mingxing , Chen Junchang , Shu Jie , Wang Xiaomei , Wang Xia , Zhang Yugang , Fu Xiaobin , Li Zhenyu , Guo Chenglong , Chen Long , Chai Zhifang , Wang Shuao
Published: July 2021

Luminescent covalent organic frameworks (COFs) find promising applications in chemical sensing, photocatalysis, and optoelectronic devices, however, the majority of COFs are non or weakly emissive owing to the aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) or the molecular thermal motion‐based energy dissipation. Here, we report a previously unperceived approach to improve luminescence performance of COFs by introducing isotope effect, which is achieved through substitution of hydrogen from high‐frequency oscillators X‐H (X=O, N, C) by heavier isotope deuterium. Combining the “bottom‐up” and in situ deuteration methods generates the first deuterated COF, which exhibits an impressively 19‐fold enhancement in quantum yield over that of the non‐deuterated counterpart. These results are interpreted by theoretical calculations as the consequence of slower C/N‐D and OD⋅⋅⋅O vibrations that impede the nonradiative deactivation process. The proposed strategy is proved applicable to many other types of emissive COFs.
TEMPO Containing Radical Polymonothiocarbonate Polymers with Regio‐ and Stereo‐Regularities: Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrical Conductivity Studies
Authors: Bhat Gulzar A. , Rashad Ahmed Z. , Ji Xiaozhou , Quiroz Manuel , Fang Lei , Darensbourg Donald J.
Published: July 2021

We report the synthesis of a (2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxidanyl) (TEMPO) appended polymonothiocarbonates through the ring‐opening copolymerization of (4‐glycidyloxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl) (GTEMPO) in the presence of carbonyl sulfide under ambient conditions. We have prepared the atactic and isotactic versions of this polymer, using enantiopure R or S forms of the GTEMPO monomer in the latter instances. Cyclic voltammetry studies revealed both oxidation and reduction events that were characteristic of TEMPO radicals. Electrical conductivity of these polymers was measured as solid‐state films after annealing the samples above their glass transition temperatures. At room temperature the isotactic polymer shows much greater conductivity (ca. 10−4 S cm−1) than the atactic (ca. 10−7 S cm−1), attributed to the well‐defined stereochemistry and regulated charge transport pathway of isotactic polymer chains in contrast to the irregular structure of the atactic counterpart.
Diarylethene‐Based Photoswitchable Inhibitors of Serine Proteases
Authors: Babii Oleg , Afonin Sergii , Diel Christian , Huhn Marcel , Dommermuth Jennifer , Schober Tim , Koniev Serhii , Hrebonkin Andrii , Nesterov‐Mueller Alexander , Komarov Igor V. , Ulrich Anne S.
Published: July 2021

A bicyclic peptide scaffold was chemically adapted to generate diarylethene‐based photoswitchable inhibitors of serine protease Bos taurus trypsin 1 (T1). Starting from a prototype molecule—sunflower trypsin inhibitor‐1 (SFTI‐1)—we obtained light‐controllable inhibitors of T1 with Ki in the low nanomolar range, whose activity could be modulated over 20‐fold by irradiation. The inhibitory potency as well as resistance to proteolytic degradation were systematically studied on a series of 17 SFTI‐1 analogues. The hydrogen bond network that stabilizes the structure of inhibitors and possibly the enzyme–inhibitor binding dynamics were affected by isomerization of the photoswitch. The feasibility of manipulating enzyme activity in time and space was demonstrated by controlled digestion of gelatin‐based hydrogel and an antimicrobial peptide BP100‐RW. Finally, our design principles of diarylethene photoswitches are shown to apply also for the development of other serine protease inhibitors.
Selective hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol catalysed by ruthenium complexes containing phosphorus‐nitrogen ligands
Authors: Valdebenito Gonzalo , Parra‐Melipán Sebastián , López Vicente , Aranda Braulio , García Eryck , Vega Andrés , Negrete‐Vergara Camila , Moya Sergio A. , Aguirre Pedro
Published: July 2021

Two ruthenium (II) complexes containing heterobidentated phosphorous–nitrogen ligands were studied as homogeneous catalysts in the hydrogenation of furfural, a key step in the transformation of biomass to biofuels or renewable chemicals. The catalysts exhibited high percentages of conversion towards the formation of furfuryl alcohol. The studied ruthenium (II) complexes are able to maintain their catalytic activities in substrate/catalyst ratios ranging from 1000/1 to 6000/1. The reaction is sensitive to hydrogen pressure and the substrate concentration. The maximum conversion is achieved at a pressure of 40 bar and a substrate/catalyst ratio of 3000/1 (TOF 3000 h−1). In situ 1H‐NMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance) analysis suggests that the presence of a phosphorous–nitrogen ligand improves the catalytic activity of the complex by stabilizing the intermediate ruthenium‐dihydride, which is considered the active species in the hydrogenation reactions.
Poly(ester‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate) for digital light processing in biomedical applications
Authors: Risangud Nuttapol , Jiraborvornpongsa Noppakhate , Pasee Supasin , Kaewkong Pakkanun , Kunkit Nootcharee , Sungkhaphan Piyarat , Janvikul Wanida
Published: July 2021

Methacrylate‐containing polyesters exploited for digital light processing (DLP) are generally prepared through ring‐opening polymerization followed by photoactivation via methacrylation, which commonly requires the additional chemical and reaction workup. Herein, such a drawback is overcome by introducing a facile method of sequential addition of ester monomer and glycidyl methacrylate into the reaction. Two different hydroxyl beginning monomers, that is, ethylene glycol and glycerol, were utilized. The chemical structures and molecular weights of the resultant copolymers were analyzed using 1H‐NMR and ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy and size exclusion chromatography, respectively. The effects of the copolymer structures on the properties of both resins formulated with and without hydroxyapatite, for example, rheological behavior and printability, and DLP‐printed specimens, for example, mechanical property and cytotoxicity, were assessed. By controlling the beginning monomer to monomer feeding ratio from 1:6 to 1:14, the Mn values of the resultant copolymers fell in the range of 1.7 to 2.5 kDa. The DLP‐printed specimens possessed compressive moduli in the range of 10.20 ± 0.16 MPa and 18.65 ± 0.75 MPa. The cytotoxicity result suggested that the DLP‐printed specimens were noncytotoxic to porcine chondrocytes. Altogether, these methacrylate‐containing polyesters simply synthesized via a concise one‐pot reaction revealed great potential for DLP printing resins in biomedical applications.
Assessing common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) population structure in Mississippi Sound and coastal waters of the north central Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Vollmer Nicole L. , Rosel Patricia E. , Mullin Keith D. , Schwacke Lori H. , Garrison Lance P. , Balmer Brian C. , Barry Kevin , Martinez Anthony , Quigley Brian M. , Sinclair Carrie , Speakman Todd R. , Wicker Jesse , Wilcox Lynsey , Zolman Eric S.
Published: July 2021

Population structure of highly mobile marine organisms can be complex and difficult to study, but it is important to understand how populations partition themselves within their environment for accurate assessment of both natural and anthropogenic impacts and successful management. The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill negatively impacted common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) within Mississippi Sound and the surrounding north central Gulf of Mexico (GOMx); however, little was known about their underlying population structure in these waters. Thus, it was unclear how many demographically independent populations were affected by the spill.

Common bottlenose dolphin samples were collected throughout inshore waters of Mississippi Sound and coastal waters of the north‐central GOMx. Mitochondrial DNA control region sequence data and 19 nuclear microsatellite loci were analysed to determine how many populations are present and characterize their range throughout these waters.

Bayesian clustering and migration analyses identified two genetically distinct and demographically independent populations: one predominantly inhabiting Mississippi Sound and adjacent coastal waters, and a second population extending generally from offshore of Mobile Bay, Alabama, east along the Florida Panhandle. Neither of these populations align with the currently delineated management stocks previously used to estimate impacts from the oil spill on common bottlenose dolphins in this portion of the GOMx.

These results suggest that revisions may be necessary so that management stocks accurately represent the demographically independent populations present in these waters. Furthermore, better comprehension of underlying population structure will enhance impact assessments on common bottlenose dolphins and provide more appropriate baseline data to support future restoration and conservation objectives.
Dynamic use of coastal areas by bull sharks and the conciliation of conservation and management of negative human–wildlife interactions
Authors: Mourier Johann , Soria Marc , Blaison Antonin , Simier Monique , Certain Grégoire , Demichelis Angélique , Hattab Tarek
Published: July 2021

Knowledge about spatial and temporal variability in the distribution and abundance of predators is necessary to adapt measures to mitigate human–wildlife interactions.

Acoustic telemetry and network analyses were used to investigate the spatial ecology of bull sharks, the species responsible for most shark bites in Reunion Island, one of the world's shark bite hotspots.

The west coast of the island was not used uniformly by every individual, with size predicting the movements of sharks along the coast.

Node‐based metrics – closeness, node strength, and cumulated continuous residency times – derived from up to 181 monthly movement networks from 20 individuals, revealed that smaller sharks (<250 cm total length) primarily used the south‐west coast while larger individuals spent most of their time in the northern region with regular visits to multiple areas along the coast.

This study provides essential knowledge on bull shark behaviour and central areas used at different periods of the year, which correlates well with the dynamics of observed shark bites. Our approach provides a non‐invasive alternative to help predicting and anticipating human–shark conflicts and avoid shark culling programmes detrimental to the conservation of large predators such as sharks.
Metformin suppresses self‐renewal and stemness of cancer stem cell models derived from pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Zahra Maram H. , Afify Said M. , Hassan Ghmkin , Nawara Hend M. , Kumon Kazuki , Seno Akimasa , Seno Masaharu
Published: July 2021

Metformin exhibits anti‐cancer activities in various types of tumours while it is prescribed as the first‐line drug for type 2 diabetes. Since new evidence has recently suggested that metformin could target cancer stem cells (CSCs) and prevent their recurrence, repositioning of metformin could be considered as a candidate for anti‐CSC agent. In this study, we assessed the effect of metformin on the cancer stem cells developed from induced pluripotent stem cells. As the result, metformin significantly suppressed the self‐renewal ability of CSCs when assessed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethythiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and cell counting methods exhibiting the IC50 as approximately 20 mM, which suppressed tube formation by CSCs on Matrigel reducing the angiogenic potential of CSCs. Cell cycle analysis showed that metformin reduced the percentage of cells in the S phase increasing the percentage of cells in G0/G1 phase. Moreover, the tumorigenicity of CSCs was found to be attenuated when the cells were injected with metformin. From these results, we concluded that metformin could be promising for targeted therapy by repositioning the widely available drugs with safety.

Significance of the study

Metformin could target CSCs and prevent their recurrence, repositioning of metformin could be considered as a candidate for the anti‐CSC agent. In this paper, we assessed the effect of metformin on the CSCs developed from induced pluripotent stem cells. Here, we show that metformin suppresses the self‐renewal and tube formation abilities of CSCs. We also show that metformin reduces the percentage of cells in the S phase increasing the percentage of cells in G0/G1 phase. Moreover, the tumorigenicity of CSCs was found to be attenuated when grafted in vivo after treatment with metformin.
ETV4 transcriptionally activates HES1 and promotes Stat3 phosphorylation to promote malignant behaviors of colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yao Dan , Bao Zhongming , Qian Xu , Yang Yong , Mao Zhongqi
Published: July 2021

Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is the commonest type of colorectal cancer with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. ETS variant 4 (ETV4) is a member of the ETS transcription factors and is frequently involved in the progression of many cancers. This study focused on the relevance of ETV4 to the progression of COAD. ETV4 was highly expressed in the collected COAD tissues and acquired cells and indicated advanced Dukes staging in patients. Knockdown of ETV4 in COAD cells weakened proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) activity of cells. The downstream genes of ETV4 were predicted, and a Gene Ontology (GO) analysis was conducted to identify the key molecule involved. ETV4 bound to the promoter sequence of HES1 and activated its transcription. Further overexpression of HES1 restored the malignant behaviors of COAD cells. HES1 was also found to promote phosphorylation of Stat3. Similar results were reproduced in vivo where downregulation of ETV4 blocked the growth of xenograft tumors in nude mice. This study demonstrated that ETV4 encourages malignant development of COAD through activating HES1 transcription and Stat3 phosphorylation. This study may offer novel insights into COAD therapy.
Coexistence of periorbital lichen planus pigmentosus and pemphigus vulgaris: Report of an unusual case and a rare association
Authors: Mohaghegh Fatemeh , Talebzadeh Zahra , Bahraminejad Mahsa , Rezaei Mina
Published: July 2021

Lichen planus pigmentosus is a rare variant of lichen planus with different patterns and manifestations. The coexistence of LPP and PV suggests that there might be a relationship between these two conditions in terms of immunologic mechanisms.
The Role of Alkali Cation Intercalates on the Electrochemical Characteristics of Nb2CTX MXene for Energy Storage
Authors: Liao Liping , Wu Bing , Kovalska Evgeniya , Mazánek Vlastimil , Veselý Martin , Marek Ivo , Spejchalová Lucie , Sofer Zdeněk
Published: July 2021

The intercalation of cations into layered‐structure electrode materials has long been studied in depth for energy storage applications. In particular, Li+‐, Na+‐, and K+‐based cation transport in energy storage devices such as batteries and electrochemical capacitors is closely related to the capacitance behavior. We have exploited different sizes of cations from aqueous salt electrolytes intercalating into a layered Nb2CTx electrode in a supercapacitor for the first time. As a result, we have demonstrated that capacitive performance was dependent on cation intercalation behavior. The interlayer spacing expansion of the electrode material can be observed in Li2SO4, Na2SO4, and K2SO4 electrolytes with d‐spacing. Additionally, our results showed that the Nb2CTx electrode exhibited higher electrochemical performance in the presence of Li2SO4 than in that of Na2SO4 and K2SO4. This is partly because the smaller‐sized Li+ transports quickly and intercalates between the layers of Nb2CTx easily. Poor ion transport in the Na2SO4 electrolyte limited the electrode capacitance and presented the lowest electrochemical performance, although the cation radius follows Li+>Na+>K+. Our experimental studies provide direct evidence for the intercalation mechanism of Li+, Na+, and K+ on the 2D layered Nb2CTx electrode, which provides a new path for exploring the relationship between intercalated cations and other MXene electrodes.
Perylene‐Cy3 FRET System to Analyze Photoactive DNA Structures
Authors: Kawai Hayato , Doi Tetsuya , Ito Yuka , Kameyama Tatsuya , Torimoto Tsukasa , Kashida Hiromu , Asanuma Hiroyuki
Published: July 2021

We report a new Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) system for structural analyses of DNA duplexes using perylene and Cy3 as donor and acceptor, respectively, linked at the termini of a DNA duplex via D‐threoninol. Experimentally obtained FRET efficiencies were in good agreement with theoretical values calculated based on canonical B‐form DNA. Due to the relatively long Förster radius, this system can be used to analyze large DNA structures, and duplexes containing photo‐reactive molecules can be analyzed since perylene can be excited with visible light. The system was used to analyze a DNA duplex containing stilbene, demonstrating that in the region of the stilbene cluster the duplex adopts a ladder‐like structure rather than helical one. Upon photodimerization between stilbene residues, FRET efficiencies indicated the reaction does not disturb DNA duplex. This FRET system will be useful for analysis of photoreactions of nucleobases as well as a wide range of nucleic acid structures.
Walter Reppe Revival – Identification and Genesis of Copper Acetylides Cu2C2 as Active Species in Ethynylation Reactions
Authors: Bruhm Tobias , Abram Andrea , Häusler Johannes , Thomys Oliver , Köhler Klaus
Published: July 2021

More than six decades after proposing copper acetylide, Cu2C2, as catalytically active species in ethynylation reactions by Walter Reppe, the explosive species have been experimentally identified and investigated during catalysis in detail now. Taking into account specific safety precautions, unequivocal qualitative characterization was achieved by Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray powder diffraction of supported copper catalysts Cu/Bi/SiO2 during and after activation and catalysis in comparison to bulk Cu2C2 materials. Quantification of Cu2C2 succeeded by thermal analysis and Raman spectroscopy. Its formation in aqueous suspension is studied starting from copper(II) oxide catalysts including dissolution, reduction and precipitation steps. Copper acetylide formation can be correlated with catalytic performance in the ethynylation of formaldehyde to 1,4‐butynediol.
Chirality without Stereoisomers: Insight from the Helical Response of Bond Electrons
Authors: Xu Tianlv , Nie Xing , Li Shuman , Yang Yong , Früchtl Herbert , van Mourik Tanja , Kirk Steven R. , Paterson Martin J. , Shigeta Yasuteru , Jenkins Samantha
Published: July 2021

The association between molecular chirality and helical characteristics known as the chirality‐helicity equivalence is determined for the first time by quantifying a chirality‐helicity measure consistent with photoexcitation circular dichroism experiments. This is demonstrated using a formally achiral SN2 reaction and a chiral SN2 reaction. Both the achiral and chiral SN2 reactions possess significant values of the chirality‐helicity measure and display a Walden inversion, i. e. an inversion of the chirality between the reactant and product. We also track the chirality‐helicity measure along the reaction path and discover the presence of chirality at the transition state and two intermediate structures for both reactions. We demonstrate the need for the chirality‐helicity measure to differentiate between steric effects due to eclipsed conformations and chiral behaviors in formally achiral species. We explain the significance of this work for asymmetric synthetic reactions including the intermediate structures where the Cahn‐Ingold‐Prelog (CIP) rules cannot be used.
Valeric Biofuel Production from γ‐Valerolactone over Bifunctional Catalysts with Moderate Noble‐Metal Loading
Authors: Martínez Figueredo Karla G. , Virgilio Emanuel M. , Segobia Darío J. , Bertero Nicolás M.
Published: July 2021

SiO2‐Al2O3‐supported Ru, Ir and Pt‐based catalysts with moderate metal loading (1 %) were tested for the first time in the production of pentyl valerate (PV) in liquid phase from γ‐valerolactone, pentanol (in excess) and H2. The acidity of these bifunctional catalysts, plays a key role in the one‐pot process comprising two consecutive acid‐catalyzed reactions and a metal‐catalyzed one. Metal dispersion also shown to be relevant for the conversion of the pentyl pentenoate intermediate into PV by hydrogenation over the metal sites. Pt/SA catalyst with the highest surface acidity and metal dispersion reached optimal GVL conversion with a PV yield of 90.0 % after 10 h, exhibiting a PV productivity of 300 mmol/gM.h, i. e. a value between three and four times higher than the best result reported until now (91.8 mmol/gM.h). These findings highlight the potential that noble metal‐based catalyst with moderate metal loading have in the valorization of biomass‐derived platform molecules such as γ‐valerolactone.
Radiation‐hardened read‐decoupled low‐power 12T SRAM for space applications
Authors: Pal Soumitra , Divya Dodla , Ki Wing‐Hung , Islam Aminul
Published: July 2021

In advanced technology, static random‐access memory (SRAM) cells used in space are highly sensitive to charge variations caused by high‐energy particle strikes, which cause soft‐error. Therefore, it is imperative for an SRAM to withstand this harsh environment. However, 6T cells are unable to function reliably in such a place. In order to address this, a radiation‐hardened read‐decoupled 12T (RHRD12T) SRAM cell is proposed in this paper. The relative strength of RHRD12T is estimated by comparing it with other contemporary cells such as NS10T, PS10T, RHBD10T, QUATRO12T, QUCCE12T, and RHD12T on various major design metrics. Due to the read‐decoupled nature of RHRD12T, it shows the highest read stability. It also consumes the lowest hold power compared to all other considered cells, except NS10T. Moreover, RHRD12T exhibits the highest write ability due to the use of two extra access transistors and the poor driving ability of the internal nodes. In terms of write delay, RHRD12T shows an improvement of 1.02×/1.06×/1.07×/1.08× over NS10T/RHD12T/PS10T/RHBD10T at VDD = 1 V. Moreover, RHRD12T is capable of tolerating the highest amount of critical charge among all other comparison cells and is the least susceptible to single‐event upsets. All the aforementioned improvements are obtained at the cost of longer read delay.
Human augmentation of historical red pine fire regimes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Authors: Kipfmueller Kurt F. , Larson Evan R. , Johnson Lane B. , Schneider Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2021

The Border Lakes Region of Minnesota and Ontario has long been viewed as a fire‐dependent ecosystem. High‐severity fire in the region's near‐boreal forests has been a focus of ecological research and public fascination. However, the surface fire history within this transnational wilderness landscape has received more limited attention. We used an interdisciplinary, dendroecological approach to characterize the surface fire history of the region, assess potential drivers of historical surface fires, and document the ecological legacies of frequent fires within the red pine forests of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) in northern Minnesota. We used tree‐ring and fire atlas data to reconstruct multi‐century surface fire records for 101 sites and document age structure and composition at 32 sites across the BWCAW. Stratification of these sites relative to their proximity to a primary travel and trade corridor used first by Indigenous groups and later by Euro‐American fur traders through the late 1800s provided strong evidence of human augmentation of fires. The patterns of fire activity, fire–climate relationships, and forest development indicate that traditional landuse by Anishinaabeg (Ojibwe) increased rates of local surface fire and played an important role in shaping the landscape. The decline of traditional subsistence practices by the Border Lakes Anishinaabeg coincided with a sharp decline in surface fires and a period of abundant tree establishment. In the absence of repeat surface fires, many red pine sites have shifted in composition, increased in stem density, and grown vulnerable to forest‐type conversion through future high‐severity fire. These results highlight the need for active fire reintroduction to red pine forests of the Great Lakes Region and underscore the importance of collaboration and guidance from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers in this process. A blended knowledge approach to fire restoration that directly engages with Indigenous perspectives and cultural practices can perpetuate the distinctive character of the largest remaining tracts of long‐lived pine forest in the Great Lakes Region. Carefully developed fire restoration practices would enhance the visitor use experience within one of the most frequently visited wilderness areas in the United States while re‐engaging directly with Indigenous knowledge and traditional cultural practices.
Heart failure and promotion of physical activity before and after cardiac rehabilitation (HF‐aPProACH): a study protocol
Authors: Limpens Marlou A.M. , Gürgöze Muhammed T. , Lenzen Mattie J. , Roest Stefan , Voortman Trudy , Kavousi Maryam , ter Hoeve Nienke , Sunamura Madoka , den Uijl Iris , van der Spek Peter J. , Brugts Jasper J. , Manintveld Olivier C. , IJpma Arne S. , Boersma Eric
Published: July 2021

Aims

Lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity (PA), are a cornerstone of treatment of patients with chronic heart failure (HF). However, improving PA in HF patients is challenging, and low participation rates for cardiac rehabilitation (CR) as well as relapse to low PA levels after CR are major issues. We designed a randomized controlled trial to investigate if PA monitoring with motivational feedback before and after centre‐based CR in HF patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) will lead to a clinically meaningful increase in physical fitness.

Methods and results

A randomized controlled trial will be conducted in a sample of 180 HFrEF patients (New York Heart Association Class II/III) who are referred to 12‐week standard CR. Patients will be randomized (2:1) to (1) standard of care (SoC) plus wearing a PA monitoring device (Fitbit Charge 3) with personalized step goals, feedback and motivation or (2) SoC only. The intervention lasts ±7 months: 4–5 weeks before CR, 12 weeks during CR and 12 weeks after CR. Measurements will take place at three time points. The primary endpoint is the change in the distance in 6‐min walking test (6MWT) over the entire study period. Other endpoints include step count, grip strength, quality of life and all‐cause mortality or hospitalization.

Conclusions

HF‐aPProACH will provide novel information on the effectiveness of remote PA stimulation and feedback before, during and after standard CR using a commercially available device to improve physical fitness in HFrEF patients.