bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methyltransferase‐Like Protein 14 Attenuates Mitochondrial Antiviral Signaling Protein Expression to Negatively Regulate Antiviral Immunity via N6‐methyladenosine Modification
Authors: Qin Fei , Cai Baoshan , Zhao Jian , Zhang Lei , Zheng Yi , Liu Bingyu , Gao Chengjiang
Published: May 2021

Mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS) protein is the core signaling adaptor in the RNA signaling pathway. Thus, appropriate regulation of MAVS expression is essential for antiviral immunity against RNA virus infection. However, the regulation of MAVS expression at the mRNA level especially at the post transcriptional level is not well‐defined. Here, it is reported that the MAVS mRNA undergoes N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification through methyltransferase‐like protein 14 (METTL14), which leads to a fast turnover of MAVS mRNA. Knockdown or deficiency of METTL14 increases MAVS mRNA stability, and downstream phosphorylation of TBK1/IRF3 and interferon‐β production in response to RNA viruses. Compared to wild‐type mice, heterozygotes Mettl14+/− mice better tolerate RNA virus infection. The authors' findings unveil a novel mechanism to regulate the stability of MAVS transcripts post‐transcriptionally through m6A modification.
Nano‐Scale Complexions Facilitate Li Dendrite‐Free Operation in LATP Solid‐State Electrolyte
Authors: Stegmaier Sina , Schierholz Roland , Povstugar Ivan , Barthel Juri , Rittmeyer Simon P. , Yu Shicheng , Wengert Simon , Rostami Samare , Kungl Hans , Reuter Karsten , Eichel Rüdiger‐A. , Scheurer Christoph
Published: May 2021

Dendrite formation and growth remains a major obstacle toward high‐performance all solid‐state batteries using Li metal anodes. The ceramic Li(1+x)Al(x)Ti(2−x)(PO4)3 (LATP) solid‐state electrolyte shows a higher than expected stability against electrochemical decomposition despite a bulk electronic conductivity that exceeds a recently postulated threshold for dendrite‐free operation. Here, transmission electron microscopy, atom probe tomography, and first‐principles based simulations are combined to establish atomistic structural models of glass‐amorphous LATP grain boundaries. These models reveal a nanometer‐thin complexion layer that encapsulates the crystalline grains. The distinct composition of this complexion constitutes a sizable electronic impedance. Rather than fulfilling macroscopic bulk measures of ionic and electronic conduction, LATP might thus gain the capability to suppress dendrite nucleation by sufficient local separation of charge carriers at the nanoscale.
Ion‐Dipole Chemistry Drives Rapid Evolution of Li Ions Solvation Sheath in Low‐Temperature Li Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhenxing , Sun Zhenhua , Shi Ying , Qi Fulai , Gao Xuning , Yang Huicong , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Li Feng
Published: May 2021

Sluggish evolution of lithium ions’ solvation sheath induces large charge‐transfer barriers and high ion diffusion barriers through the passivation layer, resulting in undesirable lithium dendrite formation and capacity loss of lithium batteries, especially at low temperatures. Here, an ion‐dipole strategy by regulating the fluorination degree of solvating agents is proposed to accelerate the evolution of the Li+ solvation sheath. Ethylene carbonate (EC)‐based fluorinated derivatives, fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) and di‐fluoro ethylene carbonate (DFEC) are used as the solvating agents for a high dielectric constant. As the increase of the fluorination degree from EC to FEC and DFEC, the Li+‐dipole interaction strength gradually decreases from 1.90 to 1.66 and 1.44 eV, respectively. Consequently, the DFEC‐based electrolyte displays six times faster ion desolvation rate than that of a non‐fluorinated EC‐based electrolyte at −20 °C. Furthermore, LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2||lithium cells in a DFEC‐based electrolyte retain 91% original capacity after 300 cycles at 25 °C, and 51% room‐temperature capacity at −30 °C. By bridging the gap between the ion‐dipole interactions and the evolution of Li+ solvation sheath, this work provides a new technique toward rational design of electrolyte engineering for low‐temperature lithium batteries.
Monitoring Solid‐Phase Reactions in Self‐Assembled Monolayers by Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Scherrer Dominik , Vogel David , Drechsler Ute , Olziersky Antonis , Sparr Christof , Mayor Marcel , Lörtscher Emanuel
Published: May 2021

Nanopatterned surfaces enhance incident electromagnetic radiation and thereby enable the detection and characterization of self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs), for instance in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Herein, Au nanohole arrays, developed and characterized as SERS substrates, are exemplarily used for monitoring a solid‐phase deprotection and a subsequent copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition “click” reaction, performed directly on the corresponding SAMs. The SERS substrate was found to be highly reliable in terms of signal reproducibility and chemical stability. Furthermore, the intermediates and the product of the solid‐phase synthesis were identified by SERS. The spectra of the immobilized compounds showed minor differences compared to spectra of the microcrystalline solids. With its uniform SERS signals and the high chemical stability, the platform paves the way for monitoring molecular manipulations in surface functionalization applications.
A Scoping Review of Strategies Used to Implement the Surgical Safety Checklist
Authors: Ramírez-Torres Carmen Amaia , Pedraz-Marcos Azucena , Maciá-Soler Maria Loreto , Rivera-Sanz Félix
Published: May 2021

In 2007, the World Health Organization initiated the Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) as part of an initiative to improve patient outcomes. After publication of the SSC, perioperative nurses identified challenges with implementing it and questioned its effectiveness. We desired to summarize the state of the science on the effectiveness of strategies that perioperative personnel have used to implement and assess the SSC; therefore, we conducted a scoping review. We searched several databases and identified 28 articles that described the three key stages of SSC implementation (ie, before, during, and after). Half of the identified articles addressed intervention strategies and most articles provided strategies for SSC implementation. The literature also indicated that effective implementation occurred when there was adequate planning. Perioperative leaders should work with nurses when implementing the SSC and monitor its use after implementation to verify compliance and help prevent negative patient outcomes.
Clinical Issues—June 2021
Authors: deKay Karen , Wright Renae
Published: May 2021

THIS MONTH

Selecting an antiseptic skin preparation agent according to the patient’s skin pigmentation

Key words: preoperative patient skin antisepsis, surgical site marking pen, Fitzpatrick skin type scale, tinted antiseptic, ink visibility.

Developing a preoperative bathing protocol

Key words: preoperative bathing protocol, preoperative showering regimen, antiseptic soap, antiseptic solution, patient education.

Decolonizing health care personnel

Key words: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO), colonization, transmission, nasal decolonization.

Composition of bone cement and precautions for perioperative personnel

Key words: bone cement, absorption exposure, methyl methacrylate (MMA), occupational hazards, personal protective equipment (PPE).
Molecular dynamics study on thermal and mechanical properties of AOO modified DGEBA‐anhydride insulating materials for high voltage GIS
Authors: Zhao Yushun , Zhang Ziyang , Zhang Song , Dou Hongli , Yang Kerong , Yang Wei
Published: May 2021

Increases in rated voltage and power density of high voltage gas insulated switchgears (GIS) impose stringent requirements on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA)‐anhydride thermoset, which is widely used as insulation materials for high GIS, for higher mechanical and heat‐resistant properties. In this paper, 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl 3,4‐epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate (AOO) was copolymerized with DGEBA ‐anhydride system to increase the mechanical and thermal properties of the thermosets. Based on the molecular dynamics simulation method, the coefficient of thermal expansion, glass transition temperature (Tg), and modulus of AOO copolymer‐modified DGEBA‐anhydride thermosets were calculated. The AOO copolymer‐modified DGEBA‐anhydride thermosets specimens were further experimentally prepared and subjected to differential scanning calorimeter test, TGA test, tensile bending test, and dielectric test. The results of simulation and experiment simultaneously indicated that the Tg and modulus of the DGEBA‐anhydride thermoset are enhanced after AOO modification. This is mainly due to the decrease in free volume percentage and mean square displacement of the epoxy cross‐linked network structure after the introduction of AOO molecules, which makes the structure more compact and the cross‐link density increased. Additionally, the dielectric performances of the thermoset was enhanced by AOO. The excellent thermal, mechanical and dielectric properties of AOO modified DGEBA‐anhydride thermoset make it a promising application in the field of high voltage GIS.
Modification of advanced Takayanagi model for the modulus of nanoclay/polymer systems comprising the effectual networks of both nanoclay and interphase section
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: May 2021

The interphase section around clays establishes the network in clay/polymer systems. In this article, we focus on the effectual features of interphase net using clay properties and interphase/interfacial factors to progress the Takayanagi model for modulus of clay‐reinforced systems. The effectual loading of interphase district in the samples and the percolation onset define the portion of interphase area in the net. The forecasts of the model are associated to the experiential quantities of several examples and the roles of whole factors in the modulus are vindicated. The lowest crucial interfacial shear modulus (Sc) of 0.01 GPa produces the highest relative modulus (nanocomposite's modulus per matrix modulus) of 3.5, but a higher ''Sc'' than 0.04 GPa deteriorates the fortifying yield of clays in the specimens. Additionally, the full exfoliation of clay platelets and the highest interfacial shear modulus of 90 GPa recover the relative modulus to 3.5, while the clays cannot reinforce the polymer matrix when the number of clays in the stacks is higher than 3 or at interfacial shear modulus less than 25 GPa.
Synthesis and modification of silica‐based epoxy nanocomposites with different sol–gel process enhanced thermal and mechanical properties
Authors: Aziz Tariq , Mehmood Sahid , Haq Fazal , Ullah Roh , Khan Farman Ullah , Ullah Bakhtar , Raheel Muhammad , Iqbal Mudassir , Ullah Asmat
Published: May 2021

This research article describes the results of nano‐silica composites filled with different epoxy contents containing nano‐SiO2 particles from (5–25 wt%). Reinforcing hybrid composites enhance thermal and mechanical properties to achieve vital and sustainable products. Silica‐based nanocomposites with high purity were prepared and used for the surface modification of nanosized silica particles. The surface structure's composition and physical properties of modified nano‐SiO2 particles were characterized through Fourier transferred infrared spectrometer, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer, and scanning electron microscopic. Silica‐based nanocomposites were prepared by incorporating of modified nano‐SiO2 as an enhancing filler. The morphology of fracture surface and dynamic mechanical properties were investigated. Results showed that the silica‐based epoxy nanocomposites are bearing a long chain structure that could improve the compatibility of silica nanocomposites with epoxy resin and contribute to a better dispersion state in the matrix, which enhanced the overall performance of epoxy‐cured products.
Preparation of Porous Polymers Based on the Building Blocks of Cyclophosphazene and Cage‐like Silsesquioxane and Their Use as Basic Catalysts for Knoevenagel Reactions
Authors: Soldatov Mikhail , Wang Yiqi , Liu Hongzhi
Published: May 2021

Phosphazene‐containing porous materials are of a great interest due to their unique properties, caused by the synergetic presence of nitrogen and phosphorus atoms, and have found applications as adsorbents, basic catalysts, etc. On the other hand, cage‐like silsesquioxanes are ideal building blocks for the preparation of covalently‐linked porous materials. Here two new phosphazene‐functionalized organosilsesquioxane cage‐based porous polymers were synthesized successively by a Friedel‐Crafts reaction of hexapyrrolylcyclotriphosphazene with octavinylsilsesquioxane in the presence of AlCl3 and CF3SO3H as catalysts. The nature of acid catalysts barely influenced the character of pores due to the interaction of catalysts with basic nitrogen atoms of phosphazene units. The obtained polymers exhibited high efficiency as metal‐free catalysts for the Knoevenagel reaction. This work opens new perspectives in the use of porous polymers based on cage‐like organosiloxane compounds as basic catalysts for various reactions.
Assaying of Cu2+ with near‐infrared l‐cysteine‐capped CdSeTe/CdS quantum dots and its effect on cell imaging
Authors: Zhang Huan , Li Zhenzhen , Huang Huaying , Ouyang Si , Deng Yiqing , Zhao Qiang
Published: May 2021

Near‐infrared (NIR) core–shell CdSeTe/CdS quantum dots (QDs) modified with l‐cysteine were synthesized in aqueous solution. The QDs had a special NIR‐emitting spectrum, high fluorescence stability and low cytotoxicity. In addition, they exhibited an obvious fluorescence quenching when Cu2+ was present. An NIR nanosensor was prepared for rapidly, sensitively, and selectively determining Cu2+ in solution quantitatively and monitoring the changes in Cu2+ in cells with fluorescence imaging in a semiquantitative way. The linear relationship between the relative fluorescence intensity (F0/F) and the concentration of Cu2+ from 5.12 × 10−8 M to 2.56 × 10−5 M in solution was observed using an NIR fluorescence spectrophotometer with R2 equal to 0.9958. Moreover, in the experiment with the fluorescence microscope, F0/F versus the concentration of Cu2+ from 5.00 × 10−8 M to 7.68 × 10−6 M also showed a good linear relationship with R2 equal to 0.9817. Practical water sample ion detecting experiments had good accuracy and recovery rates. Cell experiments showed that the NIR imaging intensity of cells was inversely proportional to the concentration of copper ions, therefore NIR QDs have great potential for detection of metal ions in solution and in cells.
Sustainable development in small and medium enterprises: The role of entrepreneurial orientation in supply chain management
Authors: Silva Graça Miranda , Gomes Paulo J. , Carvalho Helena , Geraldes Vera
Published: May 2021

Organizations are under increased pressure to improve their sustainable performance through the adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have lagged behind larger corporations due to a number of factors. Chief among these factors is the lack of resources and capabilities. In this study, we investigate whether entrepreneurial orientation as a distinctive firm‐level resource contributes to the successful implementation of GSCM practices within SMEs. We use primary data obtained from 316 manufacturing SMEs and analyze the data by using a fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Our findings show four equifinal configurations of GSCM practices and the components of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) that lead to high environmental performance. Two practices, “eco‐design” and “internal environmental management”, are present in all configurations, with the latter being the single core condition. The components of EO are present in all the configurations. Three distinct configurations lead to the simultaneous achievement of high environmental performance and high economic performance. Some noticeable differences appear in these configurations: “internal environmental management” is no longer a core condition, instead external practices (“green purchasing,” “cooperation with customers including environmental requirements,” and “investment recovery”) and “risk‐taking” become core conditions. We exptrapolate our findings into a set of propositions that expand theory on the link between entrepreneurial orientation and sustainable performance. Our study provides insights for managers who seek to infuse entrepreneurial thoughts and actions into their green supply chain initiatives.
Design and evaluation of postural interactions between users and a listening virtual agent during a simulated job interview
Authors: Antonio Gómez Jáuregui David , Giraud Tom , Isableu Brice , Martin Jean‐Claude
Published: May 2021

Postural interaction is of major importance during job interviews. While several prototypes enable users to rehearse for public speaking tasks and job interviews, few of these prototypes support subtle bodily interactions between the user and a virtual agent playing the role of an interviewer. The design of our system is informed by a multimodal corpus that was previously collected. In this paper, we explain how we were inspired by these video recordings of human interviewers to build a library of motion‐captured movements that interviewers are most likely to display. We designed a fully automatic interactive virtual agent able to display these movements in response to the bodily movements of the user. Thirty‐two participants presented themselves to this virtual agent during a simulated job interview. We focused on the self‐presentation task of the job interview, the virtual agent being listening. Participants stood on a force platform that recorded the displacements of their center of pressure to assess the postural impact of our design. We also collected video recordings of their movements and computed the contraction index and the quantity of motion of their bodies. We explain the different hypotheses that we made concerning (1) the comparison between the performance of participants with human interviewers and the performance of participants with virtual interviewers, (2) the comparison between mirror and random postural behaviors displayed by a female versus a male virtual interviewer, and (3) the correlation between the participants' performance and their personality traits. Our results suggest that users perceive the simulated self‐presentation task with the virtual interviewer as threatening and as difficult as the presentation task with the human interviewers. Furthermore, when users interact with a virtual interviewer that mirrors their postures, these users perceive the interviewer as being affiliative. Finally, a correlation analysis showed that personality traits had a significant relation to the postural behaviors and performance of the users during their presentation.
Contribution of Bioactive Compounds to the Antioxidant Capacity of the Edible Mushroom Neolentinus lepideus
Authors: Quintero‐Cabello Karen P. , Palafox‐Rivera Patricia , Lugo‐Flores Marco A. , Gaitán‐Hernández Rigoberto , González‐Aguilar Gustavo A. , Silva‐Espinoza Brenda A. , Tortoledo‐Ortiz Orlando , Ayala‐Zavala J. Fernando , Monribot‐Villanueva Juan L. , Guerrero‐Analco José A.
Published: May 2021

Neolentinus lepideus is a fungus consumed by rural communities in Central America and Asia due to its rich flavor; however, little information on its chemical composition is available. With this in mind, the objective of this work was to determine the content of vitamin E and C, ergosterol, and phenolic compounds of this fungus, as well as its antioxidant capacity. The quantified bioactive compounds were two isoforms of vitamin E, highlighting α‐tocopherol (3370.35 mg/100 g dry weight, DW) and ergosterol (11.70 mg/100 g DW). The total phenolic content was 164.80 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g, and nine phenolic compounds were identified (protocatechuic, p‐hydroxybenzoic, caffeic, vanillic, ferulic, salicylic, p‐anisic, trans‐cinnamic acids, and scopoletin). The highest antioxidant capacity was detected in the lipophilic extract with TEAC (27688 μmoles Trolox equivalents/100 g). These results suggest that lipophilic compounds are among the main bioactive compounds in N. lepideus, and they might exhibit the highest radical scavenging properties in non‐polar extracts.
Ipsilateral transulnar artery approach catheterizations after failure of the radial approach—Are two sheaths in the same arm safe?
Authors: Zafirovska Biljana , Jovkovski Aleksandar , Vasilev Ivan , Taravari Hajber , Kitanoski Darko , Petkoska Danica , Paljoskovska Savetka , Kostov Jorgo , Ho Kalon K.L. , Kedev Sasko
Published: May 2021

Aims

To assess the safety and feasibility of ipsilateral transulnar access (TUA) after failure of radial access (TRA), with two sheaths placed in the radial and ulnar arteries (RA and UA) in the same arm.

Materials and Methods

All consecutive patients with TUA due to inability to cross from ipsilateral TRA in the period from March 2011 until September 2020 were included in the study. We examined clinical and procedure characteristics, access site bleeding and ischemic complications and failure mode of initial TRA. Patients were assessed by duplex ultrasound post‐procedure (at an average of 56 ± 31 months) and followed clinically (functional and pain assessment).

Results

In this period, out of 51,866 patients 112 (0.2%) had a transulnar artery approach due to inability to cross from ipsilateral radial approach. Mean age of patients was 65 ± 11 years with 44% females. Cause for crossover to ipsilateral TUA was inability to cross a RA anomaly in 107 (95%) patients, mostly due to the presence of a “360°” RA loop in 88 patients.

Type 3 and 4 EASY Score hematoma was present in 3 patients (2.6%). Six (5.3%) of the patients had new ipsilateral radial artery occlusion noted on duplex on follow up. There were no ulnar artery occlusions detected. There were no clinical or ischemic hand complications seen during a median 4.3 years of follow up.

Conclusion

Ipsilateral transulnar artery access following failed radial artery access crossing is safe and successful for coronary angiography and intervention with low rates of complications.
Prenatal‐onset INPPL1‐related skeletal dysplasia in two unrelated families: Diagnosis and prediction of lethality
Authors: Abumansour Iman Sabri , Iskandarani Radiah Mahmoud , Edrees Alaa , Javed Farrukh , Taher Fadwah , Hakeem Ghaidaa Farouk
Published: May 2021

This report describes two patients with INPPL1‐ related skeletal dysplasia diagnosed prenatally. A literature review is conducted to find out if high‐lethality is associated with particular pathogenic variants in INPPL1 gene. Prediction of lethality in the prenatal setting has an impact on perinatal management. Some frameshift variants in INPLL1 gene are uniquely observed in lethal cases; however, more patients are needed to confirm the correlation.
Levothyroxine sodium oral solution to control thyroid function in a patient with hypothyroidism and celiac disease
Authors: Asamoah Ernest
Published: May 2021

Implementing a gluten‐free diet and switching to the levothyroxine oral solution significantly improved malabsorptive and hypothyroid symptoms in a patient with hypothyroidism, Addison's disease, and celiac disease without the need to increase levothyroxine dosage.
Light‐Promoted Minisci Coupling Reaction of Ethers and Aza Aromatics Catalyzed by Au/TiO2 Heterogeneous Photocatalyst
Authors: Li Zhanchong , Wu Liangying , Guo Jiabao , Shao Yifei , Song Yang , Ding Yuzhou , Zhu Li , Yao Xiaoquan
Published: May 2021

In this paper, Au/TiO2 nanocomposite was synthesized and utilized as highly efficient and green photocatalyst for organic reactions. A sheet‐like anatase titanium dioxide material with a highly active (001) crystal plane was prepared via a solvothermal method. Gold nanoparticles were then loaded on the surface of TiO2 by a liquid‐phase reduction method to give an Au/TiO2 material with good photocatalytic activity. The Au/TiO2 nanocomposite was utilized as a photocatalyst to develop a light‐promoted Minisci oxidative coupling reaction of ether and aza aromatics by using oxygen as green oxidant and only catalytic amount of acid as additive. The protocol shows a good functional group tolerance as well as good to excellent yields for various substrates. With mechanistic studies, Au/TiO2 nanocomposite proved to be an efficient photocatalyst to activate C−H bond via a SEO approach of heteroatoms. Moreover, the solid semiconductor photocatalyst shows good recycling performance, could be easily recovered and reused without significant decrease in yield.
Amino Assisted Protonation for Carbon−Carbon Coupling During Electroreduction of Carbon Dioxide to Ethylene on Copper(I) Oxide
Authors: Deng Hongwei , Guo Chenyan , Shi Penghui , Zhao Guohua
Published: May 2021

The development of effective catalysts for the electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) to two‐carbon (C2) products is a practical approach to solve the energy crisis and stabilize the carbon cycle of the ecosystem. The production of electrocatalytic CO2RR with copper metal shows low selectivity and mainly generates one‐carbon (C1) products, hindering its wide practical application. The use of copper (I) oxide (Cu2O) in electrocatalysis has attracted intense research attention because it can more efficiently produce C2 products with high energy density such as ethylene (C2H4) and ethane (C2H6). We use an amino‐modified Cu2O catalyst (NH2−Cu2O) for electrocatalytic CO2RR to obtain significantly increased production of the CO and C2 products. Electrochemical in‐situ infrared spectroscopy analysis was used to detect the presence of the *COOH and *CHO reaction intermediates. Density functional theory calculations showed that the amino (−NH2) modification reduces the free energy of the *CO→*CHO reaction that is the rate‐determining step in C2H4 production. Our results show that amino modification can promote the protonation of *CO and *CHO carbon‐carbon coupling to produce C2H4. Thus, amino‐modified copper‐based catalysts are promising materials for application in electrocatalytic CO2RR to multi‐carbon products.
Schadstoffe in Museen
Authors: Schieweck Alexandra
Published: May 2021

Die Luftqualität in Innenräumen ist nicht nur für die menschliche Gesundheit und das Wohlergehen bedeutend, sondern ist auch für den Erhalt musealer Sammlungen von großer Relevanz. Chemische Verbindungen werden bauseitig durch Werkstoffe und Materialien, aber auch durch die Sammlungsgüter selbst in die Raumluft freigesetzt. Die Kenntnis von Materialemissionen, beeinflussender Parameter und chemischer Reaktionen ist daher wichtig, um Schadensbilder an Sammlungsgut erklären und die verursachenden Faktoren reduzieren zu können. Qualitätssichernde Maßnahmen stellen wichtige Werkzeuge dar, um für die Aufbewahrung von Sammlungsgut geeignete Materialien auszuwählen und eine niedrig belastete Luftqualität zu gewährleisten. Eine Dekontamination von mit bioziden Wirkstoffen belasteten Objekten ist nur eingeschränkt möglich, so dass der Umgang mit entsprechenden Exponaten sehr umsichtig erfolgen muss.
Science Education and computer literacy – bringing together, what belongs together?!
Authors: Banerji Amitabh , Thyssen Christoph , Pampel Barbara , Huwer Johannes
Published: May 2021

Informatische Bildung spielt eine immer zentralere Rolle in der Bildung einer Gesellschaft des 21. Jahrhunderts. Für den Chemieunterricht ergeben sich daraus zwei Aspekte: Einerseits können Konzepte der informatischen Bildung dabei helfen, chemie‐ und naturwissenschaftsspezifische Denk‐ und Arbeitsweisen zu fördern. Andererseits kann der Chemieunterricht einen Beitrag für die informatische Bildung leisten. Dieser Artikel geht auf beide Aspekte ein und versucht die gegenseitigen Vorteile der informatischen Bildung und der naturwissenschaftlichen Bildung im Chemieunterricht darzustellen.
Targeting the S100A2‐p53 Interaction with a Series of 3,5‐Bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene Sulfonamides: Synthesis and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Sun Jufeng , Ambrus Joey I. , Russell Cecilia C. , Baker Jennifer R. , Cossar Peter J. , Pirinen Melanie J. , Sakoff Jennette A. , Scarlett Christopher J. , McCluskey Adam
Published: May 2021

In silico approaches identified 1, N‐(6‐((4‐bromo‐ benzyl)amino)hexyl)‐3,5‐bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene sulfonamide, as a potential inhibitor of the S100A2‐p53 protein‐protein interaction, a validated pancreatic cancer drug target. Subsequent cytotoxicity screening revealed it to be a 2.97 μM cell growth inhibitor of the MiaPaCa‐2 pancreatic cell line. This is in keeping with our hypothesis that inhibiting this interaction would have an anti‐pancreatic cancer effect with S100A2, the validated PC drug target. A combination of focused library synthesis (three libraries, 24 compounds total) and cytotoxicity screening identified a propyl alkyl diamine spacer as optimal; the nature of the terminal phenyl substituent had limited impact on observed cytotoxicity, whereas N‐methylation was detrimental to activity. In total 15 human cancer cell lines were examined, with most analogues showing broad‐spectrum activity. Near uniform activity was observed against a panel of six pancreatic cancer cell lines: MiaPaCa‐2, BxPC‐3, AsPC‐1, Capan‐2, HPAC and PANC‐1. In all cases there was good to excellent correlation between the predicted docking pose in the S100A2‐p53 binding groove and the observed cytotoxicity, especially in the pancreatic cancer cell line with high endogenous S100A2 expression. This supports S100A2 as a pancreatic cancer drug target.
Successful pregnancy and fetal outcome following previous treatment with pembrolizumab for relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Le‐Nguyen Alexandre , Rys Ryan N. , Petrogiannis‐Haliotis Tina , Johnson Nathalie A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is one of the most frequently diagnosed neoplasms in young adults and is curable even in the relapse setting. Many patients seek advice regarding pregnancy once they have a sustained complete remission (CR). PD1 inhibitors are effective in inducing CRs in relapsed cHL, but little is known about their effects on pregnancy, fetal outcomes, or risk of relapse. The PD1/PDL1 axis is vital in the maintenance of pregnancy, allowing for fetal tolerance. This axis is also a key pathway by which Hodgkin Reed Sternberg cells escape immune surveillance. Thus, exposure to PD1 inhibitors in the context of a pregnant cHL survivor could potentially lead to maternal and fetal complications as well as increase the risk of relapse. Pregnancy and fetal outcomes following PD1 inhibitors have been reported in women with melanoma, but not cHL. Such data may help physicians counsel their patients on this topic.

Case

This case describes a 25‐year‐old woman who was diagnosed with advanced stage cHL that was treated with multiple courses of chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for primary refractory disease. She experienced a relapse eight months following ASCT and was treated with the PD1 inhibitor pembrolizumab. She completed a total of 21 cycles, achieving a CR after cycle five. After 2 years of sustained CR off pembrolizumab, she had an unassisted and uneventful pregnancy. She delivered a healthy baby boy with no significant complications. He reached his normal milestones in his first year. She remains in CR four years following her last dose of pembrolizumab, evoking the possibility of her being cured of cHL.

Conclusion

Successful pregnancies and fetal outcomes, while maintaining clinical remissions, are possible in women with relapsed cHL treated with pembrolizumab.
Consistency between patients and families in recognizing cancer chemotherapy side effects: A questionnaire survey
Authors: Horio Fukuko , Ikeda Tokunori , Arake Yurimi , Kawashima Nodoka , Eto Erina , Matsukura Makoto , Fujii Isao , Uchida Yuji
Published: May 2021

Background

Although the side effects of cancer chemotherapy impair a patient's quality of life, family members' awareness of side effects may relieve patient anxiety and distress.

Aim

We investigated whether patients and their families were consistent in recognizing the occurrence and severity of symptomatic side effects of chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Methods and results

This was a prospective observational study. We administered a questionnaire survey to patients and family members to assess the frequency of occurrence (1: never, 2: almost never, 3: sometimes, 4: frequently, 5: almost always, 6: unknown) and the degree of severity (1: mild, 2: moderate, 3: severe, 4: extremely severe, 5: unknown) of physical and psychological symptoms associated with cancer chemotherapy. Weighted Kappa and Cramer coefficients were used to assess consistency between the two groups. We surveyed 20 pairs of patients (5 men, 15 women) and their families (10 men, 10 women); 17 pairs lived together. The median age was 65.5 years (interquartile [IQR], 58.75, 69.25) for patients and 61.00 years (IQR, 47.25, 71.25) for family members. Of patients, 17 had solid cancer, and three had leukemia. Family members mostly recognized objectively visible symptoms such as hair loss and development of spots and keratinization. However, it was difficult for families to detect invisible subjective symptoms such as weakness, dysesthesia, depressed mood, and unarticulated anxiety.

Conclusions

The results indicated that recognition of invisible subjective symptoms in patients undergoing chemotherapy was difficult even for family members. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach in which various medical professionals actively communicate with both patients and families is important. Information sharing in collaboration with patients and families could increase understanding of the patient's condition and optimize patient care.
Virtual reality for the enhancement of emotion regulation
Authors: Colombo Desirée , Díaz‐García Amanda , Fernandez‐Álvarez Javier , Botella Cristina
Published: May 2021

In recent decades, a growing body of literature has focused on emotion regulation (ER), which refers to the ability to implement strategies in order to modulate emotional responses and reach desirable goals. To date, impaired ER (i.e., emotion dysregulation) has been identified as a transdiagnostic factor across a wide range of psychopathological conditions, which shows the importance of improving patients' ability to regulate negative and positive emotions in clinical practice. In addition to the increasing evidence showing its efficacy in the treatment of several clinical conditions, virtual reality (VR) has recently emerged as a potentially powerful tool for enhancing ER, thus breaking new ground in the development of cutting‐edge transdiagnostic interventions. In the present narrative review, we will provide an overview of the existing evidence about VR‐based interventions in the field of ER, emphasizing the promising findings and the barriers that still have to be addressed. To this aim, the available VR‐based literature will be analysed in relation to four categories of ER strategies: situational strategies, attentional strategies, cognitive strategies, and response modulation strategies. Furthermore, new emerging fields of research targeting innovative aspects of ER will be highlighted, including the use of VR to promote positive emotions and interpersonal ER skills. Besides, its cost‐effectiveness will be discussed, taking into account the costs for both developers (e.g., clinicians and researchers) and end‐users. Finally, future directions in this promising field of research will be outlined.
Current Developments in the Chemical Upcycling of Waste Plastics Using Alternative Energy Sources
Authors: Karimi Estahbanati M. R. , Kong Xin Ying , Eslami Ali , Soo Han Sen
Published: May 2021

The management of plastics waste is one of the most urgent and significant global problems now. Historically, waste plastics have been predominantly discarded, mechanically recycled, or incinerated for energy production. However, these approaches typically relied on thermal processes like conventional pyrolysis, which are energy‐intensive and unsustainable. In this Minireview, some of the latest advances and future trends in the chemical upcycling of waste plastics by photocatalytic, electrolytic, and microwave‐assisted pyrolysis processes are discussed as more environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional thermal reactions. We highlight how the transformation of different types of plastics waste by exploiting alternative energy sources can generate value‐added products such as fuels (H2 and other carbon‐containing small molecules), chemical feedstocks, and newly functionalized polymers, which can contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy.
Determination of buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine, naloxone, and their glucuronides in urine by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Mariottini Claudia , Gergov Merja , Ojanperä Ilkka
Published: May 2021

A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous quantification of buprenorphine (BUP), norbuprenorphine (NBUP), naloxone (NAL), and their glucuronide conjugates BUP‐G, NBUP‐G, and NAL‐G in urine samples was developed. The method, omitting a hydrolysis step, involved non‐polar solid‐phase extraction, liquid chromatography on a C18 column, electrospray positive ionization, and mass analysis by multiple reaction monitoring. Quantification was based on the corresponding deuterium‐labelled internal standards for each of the six analytes. The limit of quantification was 0.5 μg/L for BUP and NAL, 1 μg/L for NAL‐G, and 3 μg/L for NBUP, BUP‐G, and NBUP‐G. Using the developed method, 72 urine samples from buprenorphine‐dependent patients were analysed to cover the concentration ranges encountered in a clinical setting. The median (maximum) concentration was 4.2 μg/L (102 μg/L) for BUP, 74.7 μg/L (580 μg/L) for NBUP, 0.9 μg/L (85.5 μg/L) for NAL, 159.5 μg/L (1370 μg/L) for BUP‐G, 307.5 μg/L (1970 μg/L) for NBUP‐G, and 79.6 μg/L (2310 μg/L) for NAL‐G.
Changes in quality of life, depression, general anxiety, and heart‐focused anxiety after defibrillator implantation
Authors: Kindermann Ingrid , Wedegärtner Sonja Maria , Bernhard Benedikt , Ukena Julia , Lenski Denise , Karbach Julia , Schwantke Igor , Ukena Christian , Böhm Michael
Published: May 2021

Aims

The Anxiety‐CHF (Anxiety in patients with Chronic Heart Failure) study investigated heart‐focused anxiety (HFA, with the dimensions fear, attention, and avoidance of physical activity), general anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with heart failure. Psychological measures were assessed before and up to 2 years after the implantation of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) with or without cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT‐D).

Methods and results

One hundred thirty‐two patients were enrolled in this monocentric prospective study (44/88 CRT‐D/ICD, mean age 61 ± 14 years, mean left ventricular ejection fraction 31 ± 9%, and 29% women). Psychological assessment was performed before device implantation as well as after 5, 12, and 24 months. After device implantation, mean total HFA, HFA‐fear, HFA‐attention, general anxiety, and QoL improved significantly. Depression and HFA‐related avoidance of physical activity did not change. CRT‐D patients compared with ICD recipients and women compared with men reported worse QoL at baseline. Younger patients (<median of 63 years) had higher levels of general anxiety and lower levels of HFA‐avoidance at baseline than older patients. After 24 months, groups no longer differed from each other on these scores. Patients with a history of shock or anti‐tachycardia pacing (shock/ATP; N = 19) reported no improvements in psychological measures and had significantly higher total HFA and HFA‐avoidance levels after 2 years than participants without shock/ATP.

Conclusions

Anxiety and QoL improved after device implantation, and depression and HFA‐avoidance remained unchanged. HFA may be more pronounced after shock/ATP. Psychological counselling in these patients to reduce HFA and increase physical activity should be considered.
Heteroaliphatic Dimethylphosphine Oxide Building Blocks: Synthesis and Physico‐Chemical Properties
Authors: Fedyk Andrii , Slobodyanyuk Evgeniy Y. , Stotska Olha , Vashchenko Bohdan V. , Volochnyuk Dmitriy M. , Sibgatulin Dmitriy A. , Tolmachev Andrey A. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: May 2021

Scalable synthesis of saturated heterocyclic dimethyl phosphine oxides (derivatives of azetidine, pyrrolidine, piperidine, and morpholine) is disclosed. The key steps of the synthesis relied on the reactions of HP(O)Me2, i. e. the phospha‐Mannich (the Kabachnik‐Fields‐type) condensation with cyclic imines or monoprotected diamines, palladium‐catalyzed reactions of alkenyl halides or trifltates (generated from cyclic ketones), as well as base‐mediated nucleophilic substitution, Michael addition, or oxirane ring opening. It was shown that introducing the P(O)Me2 group into the saturated heterocyclic core had very strong impact on the compound's basicity: the corresponding α‐, β‐, and γ‐isomeric derivatives were by ca. 4, 2, and 1.6 pKa units less basic, respectively, as compared to the parent saturated heterocycle. Meanwhile, the P(O)Me2‐substituted compound was more basic than its SO2i‐Pr and SO2NMe2‐containing isosteres (by ca. 1.2 and 0.4 pKa units, respectively). It was also demonstrated that the P(O)Me2 group typically increased the compound's hydrophilicity and aqueous solubility. In particular, the LogP values for the corresponding derivatives were by ca. 1.4–1.7 and 0.6 units lower than for the non‐substituted counterpart and sulfonamide/sulfone isosteres, respectively. Finally, a potential of the synthesized building blocks to generate lead‐like three‐dimensional compound libraries was confirmed using the Nelson's LLAMA tool.
The mediating effect of pain catastrophizing on pain intensity: The influence of the timing of assessments
Authors: Rizzo Rodrigo R. N. , Lee Hopin , Cashin Aidan G. , Costa Leonardo O. P. , Gustin Sylvia M. , McAuley James H.
Published: May 2021

Background

Pain catastrophizing underpins several psychosocial theories of pain, but there is limited evidence to support the proposal that changes in pain catastrophizing cause changes in pain. Results from mediation analyses have conflicting results, and one reason for these might be the timing of the assessment of pain catastrophizing. This study aimed to test the effect of the timing of the assessment of pain catastrophizing on its mediating role on pain intensity.

Methods

Causal mediation analysis using data from a randomized controlled trial which included 100 participants with chronic low back pain. The trial found that clinical hypnosis, compared to pain education, reduced worst pain intensity and pain catastrophizing. In model 1, we used data from 2‐week follow‐up for pain catastrophizing and 3‐month follow‐up for pain. In model 2, we used data from 3‐month follow‐up for both pain catastrophizing and pain.

Results

The intervention had a significant average total effect on pain (−1.34 points, 95% CI −2.50 to −0.13). The average causal mediation effect was significant when pain catastrophizing, and pain were measured at the same time (−0.62 points, 95% CI −1.30 to −0.11) but not significant when pain catastrophizing and pain intensity were measured at different times (−0.10 points, 95% CI −0.42 to 0.09).

Conclusions

The timing of the assessment influenced the mediating role of pain catastrophizing on pain intensity. These results raise questions on the casual role that pain catastrophizing has on pain intensity. Psychosocial interventions such as clinical hypnosis can reduce pain intensity even when there has been no change in pain catastrophizing.
MRI‐Based Iron Phenotyping and Patient Selection for Next‐Generation Sequencing of Non–Homeostatic Iron Regulator Hemochromatosis Genes
Authors: Viveiros André , Schaefer Benedikt , Panzer Marlene , Henninger Benjamin , Plaikner Michaela , Kremser Christian , Franke André , Franzenburg Sören , Hoeppner Marc P. , Stauder Reinhard , Janecke Andreas , Tilg Herbert , Zoller Heinz
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

High serum ferritin is frequent among patients with chronic liver disease and commonly associated with hepatic iron overload. Genetic causes of high liver iron include homozygosity for the p.Cys282Tyr variant in homeostatic iron regulator (HFE) and rare variants in non‐HFE genes. The aims of the present study were to describe the landscape and frequency of mutations in hemochromatosis genes and determine whether patient selection by noninvasive hepatic iron quantification using MRI improves the diagnostic yield of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) in patients with hyperferritinemia.

Approach and Results

A cohort of 410 unselected liver clinic patients with high serum ferritin (defined as ≥200 μg/L for women and ≥300 μg/L for men) was investigated by HFE genotyping and abdominal MRI R2*. Forty‐one (10%) patients were homozygous for the p.Cys282Tyr variant in HFE. Of the remaining 369 patients, 256 (69%) had high transferrin saturation (TSAT; ≥45%) and 199 (53%) had confirmed hepatic iron overload (liver R2* ≥70 s−1). NGS of hemochromatosis genes was carried out in 180 patients with hepatic iron overload, and likely pathogenic variants were identified in 68 of 180 (38%) patients, mainly in HFE (79%), ceruloplasmin (25%), and transferrin receptor 2 (19%). Low spleen iron (R2* <50 s−1), but not TSAT, was significantly associated with the presence of mutations. In 167 patients (93%), no monogenic cause of hepatic iron overload could be identified.

Conclusions

In patients without homozygosity for p.Cys282Tyr, coincident pathogenic variants in HFE and non‐HFE genes could explain hyperferritinemia with hepatic iron overload in a subset of patients. Unlike HFE hemochromatosis, this type of polygenic hepatic iron overload presents with variable TSAT. High ferritin in blood is an indicator of the iron storage disease, hemochromatosis. A simple genetic test establishes this diagnosis in the majority of patients affected. MRI of the abdomen can guide further genetic testing.
Who pays the penalty? Implications of gender pay disparities within top management teams for firm performance
Authors: Yanadori Yoshio , Kulik Carol T. , Gould Jill A.
Published: May 2021

Despite the expected advantages of appointing women to corporate leadership roles, empirical evidence provides mixed support for the positive relationship between women's representation in the top management team (TMT) and subsequent firm performance. Considering the evidence that female TMT members are often paid less than their male colleagues, this study examines the implications of a gender pay disparity for the relationship between women's representation in the TMT and firm performance. Our analysis that draws on TMT pay data in public Australian firms demonstrates that gender pay disparities within TMTs negatively moderate the relationship between women's representation in the TMT and subsequent firm performance. Specifically, when female TMT members are paid less than their male colleagues, and this gender pay disparity is large, women's representation in the TMT is negatively associated with firm performance.