bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A iniciação docente em Educação Física: um estudo com egressos do programa PIBID/UNEB Campus XII
Authors: Cruz Marlon Messias Santana , Lisboa Lidiany Ferrera
Published: October 2020

O presente trabalho busca compreender como os fatores relacionados ao Programa institucional de bolsa de iniciação à docência (PIBID), desenvolvido na Universidade do Estado da Bahia (UNEB) Campus XII, incidem sobre a prática docente dos professores em início de carreira. O objetivo é averiguar as contribuições do PIBID para a definição da trajetória profissional docente, a fim de relatar reflexões sobre a permanência do professor de Educação Física no contexto escolar da rede pública de ensino. Para tanto, foram entrevistados egresso do curso de Educação Física que fizeram parte do programa PIBID/UNEB como bolsistas de Iniciação à Docência. O público alvo da pesquisa foram os professores nos primeiros anos da experiência docente. Através da análise dos dados foi possível perceber que que o PIBID, qualifica a formação inicial dos futuros professores de Educação Física, estimulando a permanência do licenciado no exercício da carreira. Assim, nas falas dos egressos, o PIBID é visto com fundamental importância para a formação docente dos acadêmicos que nele estão inseridos. E que através de suas articulações, o programa se torna imprescindível para aquele que deseja se preparar para ingressar profissionalmente no espaço escolar. Enfim, por meio de todo o estudo realizado e das sugestões pedagógicas apresentadas foi possível refletir sobre a influência que o PIBID tem na qualificação da formação e início da atuação docente. Sob essa perspectiva, o PIBID cumpre um importante papel na constituição do repertório de conhecimentos, crenças e fazeres necessários à atuação profissional docente.
PDSS2‐Del2, a new variant of PDSS2, promotes tumor cell metastasis and angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma via activating NF‐κB
Authors: Zeng Tingting , Tang Zhi , Liang Lili , Suo Daqin , Li Lei , Li Jiangchao , Yuan Yunfei , Guan Xin‐Yuan , Li Yan
Published: October 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the leading causes of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. Our previous study identified a novel alternative splicing variant of prenyl diphosphate synthase subunit 2 (PDSS2) in HCC characterized by a deletion of exon 2, named PDSS2‐Del2, which is devoid of the tumor‐suppressive function of full‐length PDSS2 (PDSS2‐FL). To better understand the clinical significance of PDSS2‐Del2, we performed a BaseScope™ assay on an HCC tissue microarray and found that positive staining for PDSS2‐Del2 predicted a worse overall survival in patients with HCC (P = 0.02). PDSS2‐Del2 levels correlated significantly with microvessel counts in HCC tumor tissues. Importantly, PDSS2‐Del2 overexpression functionally promoted HCC metastasis, as demonstrated by in vitro and in vivo migration assays. In vivo assays also demonstrated that PDSS2‐Del2 increased angiogenesis in xenografts. Furthermore, we discovered that elevated PDSS2‐Del2 expression in HCC tumor cells decreased fumarate levels and activated the canonical nuclear factor‐κB pathway. The epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and WNT/β‐catenin signaling pathways were also activated by overexpression. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a fumaric acid ester, effectively reduced the metastasis induced by PDSS2‐Del2 as observed with in vivo spleen‐liver metastasis animal experiments. DMF is a prescribed oral therapy for multiple sclerosis and it might be a potential treatment for metastasis of patients with HCC. Early clinical trials are needed to validate its potential in this context.
Automated treatment planning as a dose escalation strategy for stereotactic radiation therapy in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Cilla Savino , Ianiro Anna , Romano Carmela , Deodato Francesco , Macchia Gabriella , Viola Pietro , Buwenge Milly , Cammelli Silvia , Pierro Antonio , Valentini Vincenzo , Morganti Alessio G.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To assess the feasibility of automated stereotactic volumetric modulated arc therapy (SBRT‐VMAT) planning using a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) approach as a dose escalation strategy for SBRT in pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Twelve patients with pancreatic cancer were retrospectively replanned. Dose prescription was 30 Gy to the planning target volume (PTV) and was escalated up to 50 Gy to the boost target volume (BTV) using a SIB technique in 5 fractions. All plans were generated by Pinnacle3 Autoplanning using 6MV dual‐arc VMAT technique for flattened (FF) and flattening filter‐free beams (FFF). An overlap volume (OLV) between the PRV duodenum and the PTV was defined to correlate with the ability to boost the BTV. Dosimetric metrics for BTV and PTV coverage, maximal doses for serial OARs, integral dose, conformation numbers, and dose contrast indexes were used to analyze the dosimetric results. Dose accuracy was validated using the PTW Octavius‐4D phantom together with the 1500 2D‐array. Differences between FF and FFF plans were quantified using the Wilcoxon matched‐pair signed rank.

Results

Full prescription doses to the 95% of PTV and BTV can be delivered to patients with no OLV. BTV mean dose was >90% of the prescribed doses for all patients at all dose levels. Compared to FF plans, FFF plans showed significant reduced integral doses, larger number of MUs, and reduced beam‐on‐times up to 51% for the highest dose level. Despite plan complexity, pre‐treatment verification reported a gamma pass‐rate greater than the acceptance threshold of 95% for all FF and FFF plans for 3%‐2 mm criteria.

Conclusions

The SIB‐SBRT strategy with Autoplanning was dosimetrically feasible. Ablative doses up to 50 Gy in 5 fractions can be delivered to the BTV for almost all patients respecting all the normal tissue constraints. A prospective clinical trial based on SBRT strategy using SIB‐VMAT technique with FFF beams seems to be justified.
Light–Matter Interaction in Quantum Confined 2D Polar Metals
Authors: Nisi Katharina , Subramanian Shruti , He Wen , Ulman Kanchan Ajit , El‐Sherif Hesham , Sigger Florian , Lassaunière Margaux , Wetherington Maxwell T. , Briggs Natalie , Gray Jennifer , Holleitner Alexander W. , Bassim Nabil , Quek Su Ying , Robinson Joshua A. , Wurstbauer Ursula
Published: October 2020

This work is a systematic experimental and theoretical study of the in‐plane dielectric functions of 2D gallium and indium films consisting of two or three atomic metal layers confined between silicon carbide and graphene with a corresponding bonding gradient from covalent to metallic to van der Waals type. k‐space resolved free electron and bound electron contributions to the optical response are identified, with the latter pointing towards the existence of thickness dependent quantum confinement phenomena. The resonance energies in the dielectric functions and the observed epsilon near‐zero behavior in the near infrared to visible spectral range, are dependent on the number of atomic metal layers and properties of the metal involved. A model‐based spectroscopic ellipsometry approach is used to estimate the number of atomic metal layers, providing a convenient route over expensive invasive characterization techniques. A strong thickness and metal choice dependence of the light–matter interaction makes these half van der Waals 2D polar metals attractive for quantum engineered metal films, tunable (quantum‐)plasmonics and nano‐photonics.
Monoclinic Scheelite Bismuth Vanadate Derived Bismuthene Nanosheets with Rapid Kinetics for Electrochemically Reducing Carbon Dioxide to Formate
Authors: Ma Wenxiu , Bu Jun , Liu Zhenpeng , Yan Chen , Yao Yuan , Chang Ninghui , Zhang Hepeng , Wang Tao , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2020

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 to high‐value chemical feedstocks, such as formate, is one of the most promising ways to alleviate the greenhouse effect. Unfortunately, the exploration of electrocatalysts with high activity and selectivity over a wide potential window (especially low potential for high current density) still remains a grand challenge. In this study, the fabrication of bismuthene nanosheets using an in‐situ electrochemical transformation strategy of monoclinic scheelite BiVO4 flakes is demonstrated. Catalyzing the CO2 electroreduction in 1 m KHCO3 aqueous solution, the bismuthene nanosheets exhibit a dramatically high formate Faradaic efficiency (FE) of ≈97.4% and a very large current density of −105.4 mA cm−2 at −1.0 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. Significantly, over a record wide potential window of 750 mV from the initial −0.65 V to the applied minimum −1.4 V, the formate FEs of the bismuthene nanosheets are always higher than 90%, outperforming state‐of‐the‐art electrocatalysts. Both experimental and theoretical investigations reveal that, in comparison with •COOH and H• intermediates, the bismuthene nanosheets preferentially promote fast reaction kinetics towards HCOO•, which eventually accelerates the production of formate.
Semiconducting to Metallic Electronic Landscapes in Defects‐Controlled 2D π‐d Conjugated Coordination Polymer Thin Films
Authors: Ogle Jonathan , Lahiri Nabajit , Jaye Cherno , Tassone Christopher J. , Fischer Daniel A. , Louie Janis , Whittaker‐Brooks Luisa
Published: October 2020

Two‐dimensional coordination polymers (2DCPs) have been predicted to exhibit exotic properties such as superconductivity, topological insulating behavior, catalytic activity, and superior ion transport for energy applications; experimentally, these materials have fallen short of their expectation due to the lack of synthesis protocols that yield continuous, large crystallite domains, and highly ordered thin films with controllable physical and chemical properties. Herein, the fabrication of large‐area, highly ordered 2DCP thin films with large crystallite domains using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) approaches is described. It is demonstrated that defects and the packing motifs of 2DCP thin films may be controlled by adjusting the vapor–vapor and vapor–solid interactions of the metal and organic linker precursors during the CVD fabrication process. Such control allows for the fabrication of defects‐controlled 2DCP thin films that show either semiconducting or metallic behavior. The findings provide the first demonstration of tuning the electrical properties of sub 100 nm‐thick continuous 2DCP thin films by controlling their electronic landscape through defect engineering. As such, it is determined that large‐area, highly ordered 2DCP thin films may undergo a semiconducting to metallic transition that is correlated to changes in morphology, crystalline domain sizes, crystallite orientation, defect interactions, and electronic structure.
A Habituation Sensory Nervous System with Memristors
Authors: Wu Zuheng , Lu Jikai , Shi Tuo , Zhao Xiaolong , Zhang Xumeng , Yang Yang , Wu Facai , Li Yue , Liu Qi , Liu Ming
Published: October 2020

The sensory nervous system (SNS) builds up the association between external stimuli and the response of organisms. In this system, habituation is a fundamental characteristic that filters out irrelevantly repetitive information and makes the SNS adapt to the external environment. To emulate this critical process in electronic devices, a LixSiOy‐based memristor (TiN/LixSiOy/Pt) is developed where the temporal response under repetitive stimulation is similar to that of habituation. By connecting this synaptic device to a leaky integrate‐and‐fire neuron based on a Ag/SiO2:Ag/Au memristor, a fully memristive SNS with habituation is experimentally demonstrated. Finally, a habituation spiking neural network based on the SNS is built and its application in obstacle avoidance for robot navigation is successfully presented. The results provide that a direct emulation of the biologically inspired learning process by memristors could be a sound choice for neuromorphic hardware implementation.
CDK5 Inhibition Abrogates TNBC Stem‐Cell Property and Enhances Anti‐PD‐1 Therapy
Authors: Bei Yuncheng , Cheng Nan , Chen Ting , Shu Yuxin , Yang Ye , Yang Nanfei , Zhou Xinyu , Liu Baorui , Wei Jia , Liu Qin , Zheng Wei , Zhang Wenlong , Su Huifang , Zhu Wei‐Guo , Ji Jianguo , Shen Pingping
Published: October 2020

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, in which the higher frequency of cancer stem cells (CSCs) correlates with the poor clinical outcome. An aberrant activation of CDK5 is found to associate with TNBC progression closely. CDK5 mediates PPARγ phosphorylation at its Ser 273, which induces CD44 isoform switching from CD44s to CD44v, resulting in an increase of stemness of TNBC cells. Blocking CDK5/pho‐PPARγ significantly reduces CD44v+ BCSCs population in tumor tissues, thus abrogating metastatic progression in TNBC mouse model. Strikingly, diminishing stemness transformation reverses immunosuppressive microenvironment and enhances anti‐PD‐1 therapeutic efficacy on TNBC. Mechanistically, CDK5 switches the E3 ubiquitin ligase activity of PPARγ and directly protects ESRP1 from a ubiquitin‐dependent proteolysis. This finding firstly indicates that CDK5 blockade can be a potent strategy to diminish stemness transformation and increase the response to PD‐1 blockade in TNBC therapy.
Molecular Engineering and Morphology Control of Polythiophene:Nonfullerene Acceptor Blends for High‐Performance Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Qi , Qin Yunpeng , Li Miaomiao , Ye Long , Geng Yanhou
Published: October 2020

With the advances in organic photovoltaics (OPVs), the development of low‐cost and easily accessible polymer donors is of vital importance for OPV commercialization. Polythiophene (PT) and its derivatives stand out as the most promising members of the photovoltaic material family for commercial applications, owing to their low cost and high scalability of synthesis. In recent years, PTs, paired with nonfullerene acceptors, have progressed rapidly in photovoltaic performance. This Review gives an overview of the strategies in designing PTs for nonfullerene OPVs from the perspective of energy level modulation. A survey of the typical classes of nonfullerene acceptors designed for pairing with the benchmark PT, i.e., poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) is also presented. Furthermore, recent achievements in understanding and controlling the film morphology for PT:nonfullerene blends are discussed in depth. In addition to the effects of molecular weight and blend ratio on film morphology, the crucial roles of miscibility between PT and nonfullerene and processing solvent in determining film microstructure and morphology are highlighted, followed by a discussion on thermal annealing and ternary active layers. Finally, the remaining questions and the prospects of the low‐cost PT:nonfullerene systems are outlined. It is hoped that this review can guide the optimization of PT:nonfullerene blends and advance their commercial applications.
Causal relationships from legume crops to soil microbial properties relative to canola
Authors: Lupwayi Newton Z. , Schwinghamer Timothy D. , Tidemann Breanne D. , Kubota Hiroshi , Turkington T. Kelly , Khakbazan Mohammad , St. Luce Mervin
Published: October 2020

Legume crop rotational effects are usually studied in only the first subsequent non‐legume crop even though several consecutive crops usually follow a legume. We studied the effects of field pea (Pisum sativum L.), faba bean (Vicia faba L.), faba bean green manure (faba GM), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), canola (Brassica napus L.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), on soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), β‐glucosidase enzyme activity, and bacterial physiological diversity in three subsequent crops at four locations. Generalized linear modeling (SAS PROC GLIMMIX) indicated that, when canola is grown 3 yr after an initial canola crop in the rotation, MBC is 4–40% (Bonferroni‐adjusted limits at 95% confidence) greater than when faba bean is the initial crop. Path modeling (SAS PROC CALIS) confirmed the negative effect on MBC by faba bean (relative to canola) as an initial crop. According to Bonferroni‐adjusted limits at 95% confidence, where faba GM was the initial crop, β‐glucosidase activity was 2–24% greater than where faba bean was the initial crop and 0.4–21.8% greater than where wheat was the initial crop. Similarly, where lentil was the initial crop, β‐glucosidase activity was 2–23% greater than where pea was the initial crop and 3–5% greater than where wheat was the initial crop. Path modeling revealed direct causal relationships from faba GM and lentil to β‐glucosidase activity. The legume crop effects on soil microbial properties were: faba GM > lentil > pea > faba bean, but we did not observe diminishing effects of the initial legumes to consecutive subsequent crops.
Impact of R0 resection for synchronous peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer: A propensity score‐matched analysis of a multi‐institutional database
Authors: Kobayashi Hirotoshi , Kotake Kenjiro , Sugihara Kenichi
Published: October 2020

Aim

To investigate the usefulness of resection for synchronous peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer.

Methods

The patients who underwent surgery for stage IV colorectal cancer at 16 hospitals between 1991 and 2007 were enrolled in this study. The overall survival rates of patients with synchronous peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer with and without R0 resection were compared using a propensity score‐matched analysis.

Results

Among the 3965 patients with stage IV colorectal cancer, 1169 had synchronous peritoneal metastasis (28.5%). No patients received hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in this study. Among the 1169 patients, 783 had enough clinicopathologic information and went through further analysis. Out of 783 patients, 204 underwent R0 resection. A multivariate analysis revealed that severity of peritoneal metastasis according to the Japanese classification (P < .0001) and distant metastases (P < .0001) were independently associated with non‐R0 resection. In a propensity score‐matched analysis, 118 patients who underwent R0 resection were matched with 118 patients who did not undergo R0 resection. There was no significant difference in each parameter between patients with and without R0 resection. After matching, the overall survival in patients with R0 resection was better than that without R0 resection (median survival time: 28.8 months and 15.6 months, P < .0001).

Conclusion

The overall survival of patients with R0 resection for synchronous peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer was better than that without R0 resection even without HIPEC.
Rubinstein‐Taybi syndrome in Chinese population with four novel mutations
Authors: Yu Pui Tak , Luk Ho‐Ming , Lo Ivan F. M.
Published: October 2020

Rubinstein‐Taybi syndrome (RSTS, OMIM*180849) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder, characterized by distinctive facial features, short stature, broad and often angulated thumbs and halluces, with occasional congenital anomalies. Characteristic facial dysmorphic features include downslanting palpebral fissures, low hanging columella. RSTS is caused by pathogenic variants in two ubiquitously expressed and highly homologous genes, CREBBP (OMIM*600140) and EP300 (OMIM*600140). Clinical features were well reported especially in Caucasian ethnicity. We would like to report the clinical phenotype of RSTS in our Chinese population and highlight four novel mutations in CREBBP gene.
Intra‐operative diabetes insipidus associated with cervical spine traction during staged scoliosis surgery
Authors: Kong Kam Wa T. , McCarthy K. F.
Published: October 2020

A 15‐year‐old boy with cerebral palsy and epilepsy presented for a posterior spinal fusion as part of staged repair of thoracolumbar scoliosis. Total intravenous anaesthesia was induced and maintained with propofol, remifentanil and ketamine. Following prone positioning, cervical traction was applied. Polyuria developed intra‐operatively, from 4 to 18 ml.kg−1.h−1. There was a corresponding rise in plasma sodium concentration from 132 to 145 mmol.l−1. Haemodynamic stability was maintained with boluses of Hartmann's solution and a noradrenaline infusion. Given the possibility of diabetes insipidus due to reduced cerebral perfusion pressure, the cervical traction was removed. This initially showed a good response with a transient reduction in polyuria to 3 ml.kg−1.h−1 before rising to 8 ml.kg−1.h−1. Subsequently, a vasopressin infusion was started with normalisation of diuresis and plasma sodium concentration by the end of surgery. Diabetes insipidus is an endocrine disorder related to lack of production or insensitivity to vasopressin. In the peri‐operative period, it is mainly associated with pituitary surgery and rarely with spinal surgery. To the authors' knowledge, this is only the second report of diabetes insipidus associated with staged scoliosis surgery. Cervical traction should be considered as a potential cause of intra‐operative diabetes insipidus.
Synchronization of thermal properties and constituents in Nanocomposite: Manufacturing, characterization, adjustable properties
Authors: Al Mizan Rashed , Islam Md. Aminul
Published: October 2020

This is critical to maintain better thermal properties, especially thermal conductivity as well as low particle content along with organized particle dispersion in polymer nanocomposites. Thus, this study is designed to develop a nanocomposite containing a constant reinforcing load of binary particles (carbon and alumina) in the binary matrix of polypropylene (PP)/poly ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate (EVA). The samples were prepared through the melt blending and hot pressing technique. Compared to pure PP/EVA matrix, the nanocomposites showed a shift in Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy peak and absorption intensity, which proves better interaction of nanoparticles with the matrix. The Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis showed the nanocomposite having carbon (C) and alumina (A) relative ratio 2:3 offered even structure with better distribution of nanoparticles compared to other nanocomposites. Also, Differential scanning calorimetry and Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that alumina‐rich binary nanoparticles reinforced composites offer an efficient improvement in thermal behavior. Moreover, the nanocomposite containing high alumina relative ratio (C: A = 2:3) gives a sharp shift in thermal conductivity of 1.57 W/m‐k from 1.2 W/m‐k of carbon‐rich nanocomposite (C: A = 3:2) and 0.16 W/m‐k of pure PP/EVA. However, these relative properties emphasize the important role of this nanocomposite as a programmable thermal material.
Preparation and characterization of cellulose carbamate membrane with high strength and transparency
Authors: Xu Mengmeng , Li Tao , Zhang Shaojie , Li Wenlong , He Jianlong , Yin Cuiyu
Published: October 2020

In this study, cellulose carbamate was synthesized from alkali cellulose and urea by a low‐cost solid–liquid phase method. Cellulose carbamate was dissolved in cuprammonium solution to form a regenerated cellulose membrane with high strength and high transparency. The mass fraction of cellulose dissolved was greatly increased (up to 17%), and the thermal stability of cellulose was retained. The surface of the membrane is compact and there are regular microchannels in it. The factors influencing the transparency and mechanical properties of regenerated cellulose membrane were discussed by the range analysis of orthogonal experiment. The light transmittance is 95.50%, the breaking strength is 98.35 MPa, the elongation at break is 21.74%. The ability of heat preservation and moisture preservation of regenerated cellulose membrane was tested, and the effect was close to that of conventional polyethylene membrane. The membrane material has broad application prospects in packaging, food preservation, agriculture, and other fields.
Loss of natural coastline influences species diversity of anemonefish and host anemones in the Ryukyu Archipelago
Authors: Hayashi Kina , Tachihara Katsunori , Reimer James Davis
Published: October 2020

Anemonefish and host anemones are distributed in the shallow waters of coral reefs, and thus their existence may be affected by coastal development. The Ryukyu Archipelago includes the Okinawa and Sakishima Islands; the former has experienced extensive land reclamation and drainage in coastal areas while the latter still mostly contains natural coasts. To consider the layout of protected areas needed to conserve diversity of host anemones and anemonefish in the Ryukyu Archipelago, the community structure and coexistence mechanisms of anemones and anemonefish were compared between Okinawa and Sakishima Islands.

Six species of anemonefish and seven species of host anemone are distributed in both islands. Among 15 species‐pair interactions observed in six species of anemonefish in the Sakishima Islands, 14 were explained by the niche differentiation hypothesis and only one interaction was explained by the cohabitation hypothesis. In the Okinawa Islands, 13 interactions were explained by the niche differentiation hypothesis, one by the cohabitation hypothesis and one by the lottery hypothesis.

For both host anemones and anemonefish, β‐diversity in the Okinawa Islands was lower and had a more nested structure than that of the Sakishima Islands. β‐Diversity and its nestedness did not differ between the two regions excluding study sites adjacent to coastlines, suggesting that differences in the coastal environment affected the diversity of anemones and anemonefish in the Ryukyu Archipelago.

These results suggested that there is an urgent need to prioritize the conservation of reef edges, where species diversity is relatively higher than directly next to the terrestrial coastline in Okinawa Island. In the Sakishima Islands, where many natural coasts remain, a wider area from directly next to the coast out to the reef edge needs to be comprehensively protected to increase β‐diversity.
Integrale Bogenbrücke mit Zugband
Authors: Gaßner Georg , Kollegger Johann
Published: October 2020

Bogenbrücken mit mehreren Feldern werden seit jeher vor allem zur Überbrückung von breiten ebenen Tälern verwendet. Beim Ausfall eines Brückenfelds besteht bei derartigen Tragwerken allerdings die Gefahr eines fortschreitenden Versagens, wie es wohl unlängst beim Einsturz einer Brücke in Norditalien der Fall war. An der TU Wien wurde eine neue Technologie entwickelt, die ein derartiges Versagen verhindern kann. Durch den Einsatz eines zwischen den Bogenfußpunkten angeordneten Zugbands ergeben sich aber noch weitere Vorteile. Eine abschnittsweise Herstellung ohne aufwendige Bauhilfsmaßnahmen wird ermöglicht und bei feldweiser Verkehrsbelastung treten deutlich geringere Biegebeanspruchungen im Tragwerk auf, was eine schlanke Querschnittsgestaltung zulässt. Ästhetisch anspruchsvolle und materialsparende Bauwerke können somit errichtet werden. Die durch das Tragverhalten von Bogenkonstruktionen geschaffene Option zur integralen Ausbildung von sehr langen Tragwerken bringt zusätzlich wirtschaftliche Vorzüge. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird ein für wahrscheinlich erachtetes Einsturzszenario der Albiano Magra Brücke in Norditalien erläutert und anschließend die neu entwickelte Technologie vorgestellt. Neben den Vorteilen wird auf Besonderheiten der neuen Baumethode eingegangen. Der Wahl der Steifigkeit des Zugbands muss beim Entwurf besondere Beachtung geschenkt werden, weshalb diese im Zuge einer Parameterstudie untersucht wird. Abschließend werden mögliche Einsatzbereiche der neuen Technologie aufgezeigt.
Assessing the Combinatorial Chemo‐Photothermal Therapy Mediated by Sulfobetaine Methacrylate‐Functionalized Nanoparticles in 2D and 3D In Vitro Cancer Models
Authors: Mó Inês , Alves Cátia G. , de Melo‐Diogo Duarte , Lima‐Sousa Rita , Correia Ilídio J.
Published: October 2020

Combinatorial cancer therapies mediated by nanomaterials can potentially overcome the limitations of conventional treatments. These therapies are generally investigated using 2D in vitro cancer models, leading to an inaccurate screening. Recently, 3D in vitro spheroids have emerged in the preclinical testing stage of nanomedicines due to their ability to mimic key features of the in vivo solid tumors. Investigate the chemo‐photothermal therapy mediated by Doxorubicin and IR780 loaded sulfobetaine methacrylate functionalized nanoparticles, for the first time, using monolayers of cancer cells and spheroids. In the 2D cancer models, the nanomaterials’ mediated photothermal therapy, chemotherapy, and chemo‐photothermal therapy reduced cancer cells’ viability to about 58%, 29%, and 1%, respectively. Interestingly, when the nanomaterials’ mediated photothermal therapy is tested on 3D spheroids, no cytotoxic effect is noticed. In contrast, the nanostructures’ induced chemotherapy decreased spheroids’ viability to 42%. On the other hand, nanomaterials’ mediated chemo‐photothermal therapy diminished spheroids’ viability to 16%, being the most promising therapeutic modality. These results demonstrate the importance of using 3D spheroids during the in vitro screening of single/combinatorial therapies mediated by nanomaterials.
SDF‐1α gene‐activated collagen scaffold drives functional differentiation of human Schwann cells for wound healing applications
Authors: Laiva Ashang L. , O'Brien Fergal J. , Keogh Michael B.
Published: October 2020

Enhancing angiogenesis is the prime target of current biomaterial‐based wound healing strategies. However, these approaches largely overlook the angiogenic role of the cells of the nervous system. Therefore, we explored the role of a collagen‐chondroitin sulfate scaffold functionalized with a proangiogenic gene stromal‐derived factor‐1α (SDF‐1α)—an SDF‐1α gene‐activated scaffold on the functional regulation of human Schwann cells (SCs). A preliminary 2D study was conducted by delivering plasmids encoding for the SDF‐1α gene into a monolayer of SCs using polyethyleneimine‐based nanoparticles. The delivery of the SDF‐1α gene into the SCs enhanced the production of proangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Subsequently, we investigated the impact of SDF‐1α gene‐activated scaffold (3D) on the SCs for 2 weeks, using a gene‐free scaffold as control. The transfection of the SCs within the gene‐activated scaffold resulted in transient overexpression of SDF‐1α transcripts and triggered the production of bioactive VEGF that enhanced endothelial angiogenesis. The overexpression of SDF‐1α also caused transient activation of the transcription factor c‐Jun and supported the differentiation of SCs towards a repair phenotype. This was characterized by elevated expression of neurotrophin receptor p75NGFR. During this developmental stage, the SCs also performed an extensive remodelling of the basement matrix (fibronectin, collagen IV, and laminin) to enrich their environment with the pro‐neurogenic matrix protein laminin, revealing an enhanced pro‐neurogenic behavior. Together, this study shows that SDF‐1α gene‐activated scaffold is a highly bioinstructive scaffold capable of enhancing proangiogenic regenerative response in human SCs for improved wound healing.
Health promotion intervention for people with early‐stage dementia: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Testad Ingelin , Kajander Martine , Gjestsen Martha T. , Dalen Ingvild
Published: October 2020

Introduction

With the limited advancements in medical treatment, there is a growing need for supporting people with early‐stage dementia adjust to their diagnosis and improve their quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12‐week health promotion course for people with early‐stage dementia.

Methods

Quasi‐experimental, single group, pretest‐posttest design. A total of 108 persons with dementia participated in this study, and for each participant, a carer was interviewed. The 12‐week health promotion intervention consisted of 2‐hr sessions at weekly intervals. Outcome measures were cognition, measured by Mini‐Mental State Examination, personal, and instrumental activities of daily living (P‐ADL and I‐ADL), measured by Lawton and Brody's Physical Self‐Maintenance Scale and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, self‐rated health, measured by the European Quality of life Visual Analogue Scale, depressive symptoms, measured by the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia, and neuropsychiatric symptoms, measured by The Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Assessments were conducted at baseline and at follow‐up 1–2 months postintervention.

Results

The results demonstrate a small but statistically significant improvement in depressive symptoms (p = .015) and in self‐rated health (p = .031). The results also demonstrated a small statistically significant decline in the participants’ I‐ADL (p = .007). The participants’ cognitive function, P‐ADL, and neuropsychiatric symptoms were stable during the 4‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates promising results with regard to the benefit of attending a 12‐week health promotion intervention in promoting health and well‐being in people with early‐stage dementia. With the majority of participants with early‐stage dementia living at home without any healthcare services in a vulnerable stage of the condition, this study makes an important contribution to highlighting the need for, and benefit of, educational approaches for this population.
Role of densin‐180 in mouse ventral hippocampal neurons in 24‐hr retention of contextual fear conditioning
Authors: Kim Chong‐Hyun , Kim Seoyul , Kim Su‐Hyun , Roh Jongtae , Jin Harin , Song Bokyung
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Densin‐180 interacts with postsynaptic molecules including calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) but its function in learning and memory process has been unclear.

Methods

To investigate a role of hippocampal densin‐180 in contextual fear conditioning (CFC) learning and memory processes, knockdown (KD) of densin‐180 in hippocampal subareas was applied.

Results

First, ventral hippocampal (vHC) densin‐180 KD impaired single‐trial CFC (stCFC) memory one day later. stCFC caused freezing behaviors to reach the peak about one hour later in both control and KD mice, but then freezing was disappeared at 2 hr postshock in KD mice. Second, stCFC caused an immediate and transient reduction of vHC densin‐180 in control mice, which was not observed in KD mice. Third, stCFC caused phosphorylated‐T286 (p‐T286) CaMKIIα to change similarly to densin‐180, but p‐T305 CaMKIIα was increased 1 hr later in control mice. In KD mice, these effects were gone. Moreover, both basal levels of p‐T286 and p‐T305 CaMKIIα were reduced without change in total CaMKIIα in KD mice. Fourth, we found double‐trial CFC (dtCFC) memory acquisition and retrieval kinetics were different from those of stCFC in vHC KD mice. In addition, densin‐180 in dorsal hippocampal area appeared to play its unique role during the very early retrieval period of both CFC memories.

Conclusion

This study shows that vHC densin‐180 is necessary for stCFC memory formation and retrieval and suggests that both densin‐180 and p‐T305 CaMKIIα at 1 ~ 2 hr postshock are important for stCFC memory formation. We conclude that roles of hippocampal neuronal densin‐180 in CFC are temporally dynamic and differential depending on the pattern of conditioning stimuli and its location along the dorsoventral axis of hippocampal formation.
Clinical translation of choline and geranic acid deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Ko Justin , Mandal Abhirup , Dhawan Sunil , Shevachman Marina , Mitragotri Samir , Joshi Nitin
Published: October 2020

Choline geranate deep eutectic solvent/ionic liquid (CAGE) has shown several desirable therapeutic properties including antimicrobial activity and ability to deliver drugs transdermally in research laboratories. Here, we describe the first report of clinical translation of CAGE from the lab into the clinic for the treatment of rosacea, a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects the face. We describe the seven steps of clinical translation including (a) scale‐up, (b) characterization, (c) stability analysis, (d) mechanism of action, (e) dose determination, (f) GLP toxicity study, and (g) human clinical study. We describe the challenges and outcomes in these steps, especially those that uniquely arise from the deep eutectic nature of CAGE. Our translational efforts led to a 12‐week open‐label phase 1b cosmetic study with CAGE1:2 gel (CGB400) in mild–moderate facial rosacea in 26 patients where CGB400 exhibited a marked reduction in the number of inflammatory lesions. These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of CGB400 for treating rosacea as well as it provides insights into the translational journey of deep eutectic solvents, in particular CAGE, for dermatological applications.
Enzymatic Modification of Cellulose To Unlock Its Exploitation in Advanced Materials
Authors: Martinelli Andrea , Giannini Luca , Branduardi Paola
Published: October 2020

Nowadays natural biopolymers have a wide variety of uses in various industrial applications, such as food, adhesives and composite materials. Among them, cellulose has attracted the interest of researchers due to its properties: high strength and flexibility, biocompatibility and nontoxicity. Despite that, in many cases its practical use is limited because of poor solubility and/or an unsuitable hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance. In this context, enzymatic modification appears as a powerful strategy to overcome these problems through selective, green and environmentally friendly processes. This minireview discusses the different methods developed for the enzymatic modification of cellulose, emphasizing the type of reaction, the enzymes used (laccases, esterases, lipases, hexokinases, etc.), and the properties and applications of the cellulose derivatives obtained. Considering that cellulose is the most abundant natural polymer on Earth and can be derived from residual lignocellulosic biomass, the impact of its use in bio‐based process following the logic of the circular economy is relevant.
Micropuncture technique for femoral access is associated with lower vascular complications compared to standard needle
Authors: Ben‐Dor Itsik , Sharma Avinash , Rogers Toby , Yerasi Charan , Case Brian C. , Chezar‐Azerrad Chava , Musallam Anees , Forrestal Brian J. , Zhang Cheng , Hashim Hayder , Bernardo Nelson , Satler Lowell F. , Waksman Ron
Published: October 2020

Objectives

We compared access‐site complications with a Micropuncture 21‐gauge (G) needle to a standard 18G needle in patients undergoing femoral‐access percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Vascular access‐site complications are the most common complication after cardiac catheterization. These complications increase patient morbidity and mortality, along with healthcare costs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 17,844 consecutive patients undergoing PCI. Micropuncture access was used in 2344 patients and a standard 18G needle in 15,500 patients. Primary endpoints included vascular perforation or limb ischemia requiring repair, retroperitoneal bleeding, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula, groin hematoma (>4 cm).

Results

Patients undergoing PCI with Micropuncture were at higher risk: they were on anticoagulation (557 [23.7%] vs. 1,590 [10.2%], p < .001), used steroids more frequently (131 [5.6%] vs. 638 [4.1%], p < .001) and required the use of an intra‐aortic balloon pump more often (191 [(8.1%] vs. 896 [5.7%], p < .001). Overall, the access‐site complications rate was lower using Micropuncture (58 [2.5%]) versus standard needle (558 [3.6%], p = .005). The Micropuncture group had a significantly lower rate of hematoma than standard needle (32 [1.4%] vs. 309 [1.9%], p = .03). There was no significant difference in the rate of limb ischemia (1 [0.04%] vs. 12 [0.07%], p = .56), perforation (2 [0.08%] vs. 14 [0.09%], p = .93), retroperitoneal bleeding (3 [0.12%] vs. 18 [0.11%], p = .87), pseudoaneurysm (18 [0.76%] vs. 170 [1.09%], p = .14), and arteriovenous fistula (2 [0.08%] vs. 35 [0.22%], p = .16), comparing the Micropuncture group to a standard needle, respectively.

Conclusions

Femoral access using a Micropuncture reduced the rate of vascular complications with significant reduction in the rate of groin hematomas.
Ischemic and bleeding risk after complex percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with or without high bleeding risk
Authors: Yamamoto Ko , Shiomi Hiroki , Morimoto Takeshi , Takeji Yasuaki , Yoshikawa Yusuke , Natsuaki Masahiro , Watanabe Hirotoshi , Tada Tomohisa , Tazaki Junichi , Yamaji Kyohei , Tamura Toshihiro , Ando Kenji , Kadota Kazushige , Furukawa Yutaka , Nakagawa Yoshihisa , Kimura Takeshi
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To evaluate utility of the complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) criteria in real‐world practice.

Background

Applicability of procedural complexity criteria for risk stratification has not been adequately evaluated in real‐world practice.

Methods

Among 13,087 patients undergoing first PCI in the CREDO‐Kyoto registry cohort‐2, the study population consisted of 7,871 patients after excluding patients with acute myocardial infarction and those without stent implantation. Complex PCI was defined as PCI, which fulfills at least one of the followings: three vessels treated, > = 3 stents implanted, > = 3 lesions treated, bifurcation with two stents, >60 mm total stent lengths, and target of chronic total occlusion.

Results

The cumulative incidences of and adjusted risks for the primary ischemic (myocardial infarction/ischemic stroke), and bleeding (GUSTO moderate/severe) endpoints were significantly higher in patients with complex PCI (N = 2,777 [35%]) than in those with noncomplex PCI (N = 5,094 [65%]) (15.4% vs. 10.9%, log‐rank p < .001; odds ratio (OR): 1.53, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31–1.79, p < .001, and 11.9% vs. 9.9%, log‐rank p = .004; OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.05–1.46, p = .01). In the 30‐day landmark analysis, the higher risks of patients with complex PCI for ischemic and major bleeding events were only seen within 30 days after PCI (ischemic; within 30 days: HR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.79–2.69, p < .001; beyond 30 days: HR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.92–1.34, p = .26, and bleeding; within 30 days: HR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.13–2.16, p = .007; beyond 30 days: HR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.94–1.31, p = .22).

Conclusions

Patients with complex PCI as compared with patients with noncomplex PCI had a higher risk for both ischemic and bleeding events mainly within 30 days after PCI.
Rice paste viscosities and gel texture resulting from varying drying and tempering regimen
Authors: Graham‐Acquaah Seth , Siebenmorgen Terry J.
Published: October 2020

Background and objectives

Heated‐air drying followed by tempering (HAT) is effective for increasing rough rice drying rates without compromising head rice yield (HRY). However, relatively little is known about the specific nature of the effects of HAT regimens on end‐use properties of rice. This study determined the effects of drying air conditions (air temperature and relative humidity) and tempering durations on changes in rice paste viscosities and gel texture.

Findings

Rice paste viscosities and gel texture were not only dependent on drying air temperature but also on how long the rice was exposed to a given temperature during drying and tempering. Air relative humidity (rh) had an indirect effect on rice end‐use properties. Using different HAT regimens, peak viscosity was altered by 16%, final viscosity by 21%, breakdown by 24%, and setback by >500% compared with control samples. Gel strength was increased by approximately 40% with HAT regimens.

Conclusions

Heated‐air drying and tempering conditions must be carefully selected, not only to minimize HRY reductions but also to minimize variations in the functional properties of rice intended for specified end uses. Likewise, HAT regimens could be selected to produce desired properties for specified end uses.

Significance and novelty

Inconsistencies in rice flour functionality are a hindrance to an expansive use of rice in end‐use, gluten‐free product development. This study shows that drying, a critical postharvest operation, could introduce variations in rice flour quality, which also implies that HAT regimens could deliberately be utilized to produce flour for various end‐use applications.
Flexible yet Robust Framework of Tin(II) Oxide Carbodiimide for Reversible Lithium Storage
Authors: Lv Zhuoran , Dong Wujie , Jia Bingquan , Zhang Shaoning , Xie Miao , Zhao Wei , Huang Fuqiang
Published: October 2020

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) can become promising electrode materials for advanced lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), because their loosely packed porous structures may mitigate volume expansion and metal atom aggregation, which occur at the respective metal oxides. However, they suffer from poor electrical conductivity and irreversible structural degradation upon charge/discharge processes, which impede their practical utilization. Herein, we investigate MOF‐like Sn2O(CN2) as a new electrode material. The conductive yet flexible [N=C=N] linkers are tilted between [Sn4O] nodes and cross‐linked into a porous quasi‐layered structure. Such structure offers abundant channels for fast Li‐ion transport and tolerance of enormous volume expansion. Notably, anisotropic [N=C=N]2− arrays hardly migrate so that Sn0 nanodots are physically separated via robust [N=C=N]2− framework during discharge, thereby effectively preventing the formation of large Sn islands. Owing to the structural advantage, the Sn2O(CN2) electrode exhibits an initial Coulombic efficiency as high as ∼80 %. With the addition of graphite as conductive supporter, the electrode provides 978 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 even after 300 cycles. Such MOF‐like carbodiimides hold potential for the advanced electrodes in LIBs and other battery systems.
Photocontrolled DNA Origami Assembly by Using Two Photoswitches
Authors: Mishra Shubham , Park Soyoung , Emura Tomoko , Kumi Hidaka , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Endo Masayuki
Published: October 2020

Stimuli‐responsive switching molecules have been widely investigated for the purpose of the mechanical control of biomolecules. Recently developed arylazopyrazole (AAP) shows photoisomerization activity, displaying a faster response to light‐induced conformational changes and unique absorption spectral properties compared with those of conventionally used azobenzene. Herein, it is demonstrated that AAP can be used as a photoswitching molecule to control photoinduced assembly and disassembly of DNA origami nanostructures. An AAP‐modified DNA origami has been designed and constructed. It is observed that the repeated assembly and disassembly of AAP‐modified X‐shaped DNA origami and hexagonal origami with complementary strands can be achieved by alternating UV and visible‐light irradiation. Closed and linear assemblies of AAP‐modified X‐shaped origami were successfully formed by photoirradiation, and more than 1 μm linear assemblies were formed. Finally, it is shown that the two photoswitches, AAP and azobenzene, can be used in tandem to independently control different assembly configurations by using different irradiation wavelengths. AAP can extend the variety of available wavelengths of photoswitches and stably result in the assembly and disassembly of various DNA origami nanostructures.