bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Highly Elastic Scaffolds Produced by Melt Electrowriting of Poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone)
Authors: Sanchez Diaz Raquel , Park Jong‐Ryul , Rodrigues Leona L. , Dalton Paul D. , De‐Juan‐Pardo Elena M. , Dargaville Tim R. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractA rapid and efficient system to adapt commercially available polymers for melt electrowriting (MEW) for the fabrication of micro‐fibrous scaffolds is introduced. Poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) is currently the gold standard for MEW due to its low melt viscosity and its use in tissue regeneration. While several other polymers have been used for MEW, they involve small‐scale custom synthesis meaning beyond PCL there is a scarcity of commercial polymers suitable for MEW. Furthermore, PCL has a long degradation time and lacks the elasticity needed for many applications. Poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (PLCL) is an elastic polymer with relatively fast degradation profile and is commercially available in high purity. Its high melt viscosity, however, makes it incompatible with MEW at normal operating temperatures. Rather than modifying the MEW machine, this study uses a simple pre‐treatment of PLCL to tailor the melt viscosity. This treatment involves heating PLCL at 150 °C for 24–48 h to enable MEW printing into scaffolds at 110 °C with fiber diameters 14–40 µm. Scaffolds maintained their elasticity after the thermal degradation process, becoming the first PLCL low‐temperature MEW scaffolds. Moreover, this approach can be readily adapted by any MEW user without manipulating the polymer beyond the thermal treatment in an oven.
Recent Advances in Cobalt‐Catalyzed, Directing‐Group‐Assisted C−H Bond Amidation Reactions
Authors: Sunny Sereena , Karvembu Ramasamy 
Published: July 2021

AbstractC−N bond formation reactions have garnered a lot of interest in recent years due to the predominance of nitrogen‐containing compounds in most pharmacological medications. Since traditional approaches have several limitations, the transition metal‐catalyzed C−H amidation/amination process has arisen as a more atom‐friendly option. Because there are so many distinct kinds of C−H bonds in organic molecules, selective amidation of C−H bonds has always been a challenge. In this scenario, the directing‐group‐assisted C−H amidation has received considerable attention, especially with inexpensive metal cobalt, due to its unique properties and efficiency. We summarize recent developments in cobalt‐catalyzed directing‐group‐aided C−H bond amidation reactions in this review. We briefly discuss the evolution of directing group preferences and their function in the site selection.magnified image
Phosphine‐Free Manganese(II)‐Catalyst Enables Acceptorless Dehydrogenative Coupling of Alcohols with Indoles
Authors: Yadav Vinita , Balaraman Ekambaram , Mhaske Santosh B. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractHerein, an air‐stable, molecularly defined NNN−Mn(II) pincer complex catalyzed acceptorless dehydrogenative coupling of alcohols with indoles is reported. A wide variety of symmetrical and unsymmetrical bis(indolyl)methane derivatives as well as some structurally important products such as Vibrindole A, Turbomycin B alkaloid, Antileukemic, and Anticancer agents were synthesized. Mechanistic studies illustrate the importance of the NH moiety in the complex and the crucial role of metal‐ligand cooperation during catalysis.magnified image
Cascade Reaction of α, β‐Unsaturated Ketones and 2‐Aminoaryl Alcohols for the Synthesis of 3‐Acylquinolines by a Copper Nanocatalyst
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wang Chen , Tong Yixin , Ling Yong , Zhou Changjian , Xiong Biao 
Published: July 2021

Abstract3‐Acylquinolines possess widespread applications in functional chemicals. However, the convenient and selective synthesis of such important substructures has to date remained a challenge. Herein, we report a method to access 3‐acylquinolines from α, β‐unsaturated ketones and 2‐aminoaryl alcohols in one pot with a copper nanocatalyst supported on nitrogen‐silica‐doped carbon (Cu/N−SiO2−C). Mechanistically, the construction of the product involves a cascade procedure including radical‐type oxidation of 2‐aminoaryl alcohols, aza‐Michael addition and annulation. This developed protocol proceeds with merits of mild reaction conditions, good functional group tolerance, earth‐abundant and reusable copper catalyst, easily available stocks and O2 as the sole oxidant, which provides an alternative way for the sustainable synthesis of quinoline derivatives.magnified image
C(sp3)−C(sp3) Bond Formation via Electrochemical Alkoxylation and Subsequent Lewis Acid Promoted Reactions
Authors: López Enol , van Melis Carlo , Martín Raúl , Petti Alessia , de la Hoz Antonio , Díaz‐Ortíz Ángel , Dobbs Adrian P. , Lam Kevin , Alcázar Jesús 
Published: July 2021

AbstractA two‐step transition metal‐free methodology for the C(sp3)−C(sp3) functionalisation of saturated N‐heterocyclic systems is disclosed. First, aminal derivatives are generated through the anodic oxidation of readily accessible carboxylic acids. Then, in the presence of BF3 ⋅ OEt2, iminium ions are unmasked and rapidly alkylated by organozinc reagents under flow conditions. Secondary, tertiary and quaternary carbon centers have been successfully assembled using this methodology. Such an approach is especially relevant to drug discovery since it increases C(sp3)‐functionalities rapidly within a molecular framework. As proof of concept, our methodology was applied to derivatization of peptides and an API.magnified image
Cyclodextrin‐Assisted Delivery of Azobenzene Photoswitches for Uniform and Long‐Term Restoration of Light Responses in Degenerated Retinas of Blind Mice
Authors: Cao Kevin J. , Lyons Elijah F. , Smith Benjamin E. , Denlinger Bristol L. , Ma Hong , Shirian Jonathan D. , Kramer Richard H. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractAzobenzene photoswitches are promising drug candidates for bestowing light sensitivity onto retinal neurons after photoreceptors degenerate in blinding disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A potent photoswitch, BENAQ, targets a subset of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), interacting with voltage‐gated ion channels to enable light‐triggered action potential firing. In mouse models of RP, injection of BENAQ into the vitreous of the eye photosensitizes RGCs to non‐damaging wavelengths and intensities of light. While the concentration required to elicit light responses is non‐toxic, effective drug delivery to the retina in vivo has remained a serious challenge. BENAQ aggregates near the injection site, causing non‐uniform photosensitization with a half‐life of 7 days, too transient for therapeutic vision restoration. Here, cyclodextrins are used to encapsulate BENAQ via host–guest chemistry to increase solubility and improve retinal delivery. SBE‐CD, a sulfobutylether β‐cyclodextrin, envelops the aromatic moieties of BENAQ to form a stable complex that dramatically enhances photosensitization, prolonging light responses to a half‐life of 31 days. SBE‐CD also ensures dispersal of BENAQ, resulting in uniform photosensitization across the retina. Hence the host–guest interaction between SBE‐CD and BENAQ overcomes limitations of intraocular delivery, guiding how photoswitches may be formulated as a possible treatment for human blindness.
Current and future agronomic perspectives on rainfed soybean production systems in South Africa
Authors: Haarhoff Stephanus J. , Swanepoel Pieter A. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractAlternative crop and soil management practices can offer additional tools to address current soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield gaps in South Africa. Despite recent genetic advancements and the introduction of novel weed management strategies, soybean yield remained static. Inconsistent rainfall patterns, high temperatures, and soil compaction have been limiting soybean productivity. Uncertainty exists among farmers regarding optimal nitrogen fertilizer management due to inconsistent yield responses and likely due to a shortage of locally generated scientific information. The benefits provided by including soybean in a maize (Zea mays L.) monoculture production system has been identified, however, crop rotation effects on yield in combination with newly introduced agronomic practices such as no‐tillage and crop residue retention are inconsistent. Modern germplasm offers several opportunities to improve water use efficiency by limiting water‐stress conditions during the reproductive growth stages when yield components are highly sensitive. The introduction of less rigorous soil tillage practices alongside greater residue retention can lessen surface runoff and evaporation losses. Scientifically evaluated research is crucially needed to advance the understanding of current soybean yield gaps and to facilitate the development of tailored management practices to address farm‐specific challenges while beneficial soil and crop conditions are taken advantage of.
Single‐Cell Imaging of m6A Modified RNA Using m6A‐Specific In Situ Hybridization Mediated Proximity Ligation Assay (m6AISH‐PLA)
Authors: Ren Xiaojun , Deng Ruijie , Zhang Kaixiang , Sun Yupeng , Li Yue , Li Jinghong 
Published: July 2021

AbstractN6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification—the most prevalent mammalian RNA internal modification—plays key regulatory roles in mRNA metabolism. Current approaches for m6A modified RNA analysis limit at bulk‐population level, resulting in a loss of spatiotemporal and cell‐to‐cell variability information. Here we proposed a m6A‐specific in situ hybridization mediated proximity ligation assay (m6AISH‐PLA) for cellular imaging of m6A RNA, allowing to identify m6A modification at specific location in RNAs and image m6A RNA with single‐cell and single‐molecule resolution. Using m6AISH‐PLA, we investigated the m6A level and subcellular location of HSP70 RNA103‐m6A in response to heat shock stress, and found an increased m6A modified ratio and an increased distribution ratio in cytoplasm under heat shock. m6AISH‐PLA can serve in the study of m6A RNA in single cells for deciphering epitranscriptomic mechanisms and assisting clinical diagnosis.
Synthesis of 1‐aminoalkyl‐2‐naphthols derivatives using an engineered copper‐based nanomagnetic catalyst (Fe3O4@CQD@Si (OEt)(CH2)3NH@CC@N3@phenylacetylene@Cu)
Authors: Akbarpour Tahereh , Khazaei Ardeshir , Yousefi Seyf Jaber , Sarmasti Negin 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn the present study, a molecular level engineered‐based method was used to synthesis a copper‐based nanomagnetic catalyst (Fe3O4@CQD@Si (OEt)(CH2)3NH@CC@N3@phenylacetylene@Cu). The as‐synthesized catalyst was characterized using different techniques, including infrared (IR), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and EDX elemental mapping, induced coupled plasma (ICP), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The Fe3O4 nanoparticles surface were protected using carbon quantum dots (CQDs) instead of conventional SiO2. The activity of the as‐synthesized catalyst was evaluated in the synthesis of 1‐aminoalkyl‐2‐naphthols derivatives. The solvent‐free condition with low reaction time and high reaction yield is the results of the prepared catalyst. How the reaction was triggered by the catalyst was determined by the IR. The as‐synthesized catalyst provides an 87.5% reaction yield after five cycles. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), EDX, TEM, TGA, and mapping analyses were taken to examine the stability of the recovered catalyst. All elements, especially Cu with 2.4 wt%, are present in the recovered catalyst. These findings provide strong evidence for the stability of the as‐synthesized novel copper‐based heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst. The effect of temperature and the amount of the catalyst (optimum reaction condition) were determined using a systematic approach, namely, the design of experiment (DOE).
Facile fabrication of porous magnetic covalent organic frameworks as robust platform for multicomponent reaction
Authors: Azizi Najmedin , Heidarzadeh Fatemeh , Farzaneh Fezeh 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe design of cheap yet efficient nanoporous magnetic catalysts for the environmentally benign process's widespread application is an extremely attractive, challenging chemical research field. A novel porous magnetic covalent organic framework was prepared by the condensation reaction of melamine and terephthaladehyde on the surface of 3,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde coated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles COF@Fe3O4 under hydrothermal conditions for the first time. The high surface area magnetic COF could exhibit superior catalytic activity for sustainable synthesis of trisubstituted and tetrasubstituted imidazoles and pyrroles in good to excellent yields in PEG as solvent under environmentally friendly, ambient conditions and making the overall process economical, efficient, and green. The retrievable catalyst in PEG is general and applicable to a broad substrate scope and functional group compatibility. The structure and morphology of the COF@Fe3O4 were characterized by FTIR, XRD, EDX, and SEM spectroscopy. The COF@Fe3O4 magnetic catalyst was recovered by an external magnet and used for several cycles without significant catalytic activity loss.
Regular monitoring and targeted removals can control lionfish in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas
Authors: Kleitou Periklis , Rees Sian , Cecconi Francesco , Kletou Demetris , Savva Ioannis , Cai Leda L. , Hall‐Spencer Jason M. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

A lack of biosecurity in the Suez Canal has combined with global warming and other human pressures to cause abrupt changes in the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout this region an influx of species is influencing the outcome of efforts to protect and restore nature.
Despite calls for targeted removals of invasive species from protected areas, there is limited information about the effectiveness of this course of action from both an ecological and a socio‐economic perspective. In this study, coordinated removals of lionfish (Pterois miles) by volunteers/scuba divers at three marine protected sites in Cyprus were conducted.
The removal efficiency was monitored using visual‐census surveys and citizen science data. Removals significantly decreased lionfish numbers but long‐term suppression of lionfish would require monitoring and repetition of removals when necessary, since population recovery was sometimes rapid.
Citizen science yielded the data needed to understand lionfish population changes and guide the timing of removal events, but was characterized by large variation and potential outliers, highlighting the need for large sample sizes.
Questionnaire surveys were used to assess the social impact of participation in lionfish removals; these showed that involvement had a strong positive impact on knowledge about lionfish and motivation to support marine conservation activities – the divers were even willing to pay extra to remove lionfish.
Management reforms would be needed to capitalize on this societal motivation, and enable effective lionfish removals by scuba divers, coordinated by competent authorities. The EU aims to protect at least 30% of the marine waters by 2030. Removal events could help shield selected conservation sites from the adverse effects of lionfish and at the same time help establish links with local communities, strengthening the sustainable use of marine systems both at corporate and at societal levels.
Exploring the use of virtual laboratory simulations before, during, and postCOVID‐19 recovery phase: An Animal Biotechnology case study
Authors: Yap Wei Hsum , Teoh Ming Li , Tang Yin Quan , Goh Bey‐Hing 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis study presents an evaluation of integrating virtual laboratory simulations in assessment design of a biotechnology course at Taylor's University in Malaysia before, during and post‐COVID recovery phases. The purpose was to investigate how virtual laboratory simulations were integrated as part of the assessments of a practical‐embedded course—the aim being to evaluate students' acceptance and perception of using virtual simulation. A total of 46 students, across three different study cohorts (August 2019, March 2020, and August 2020) were evaluated different educational aspects of using virtual laboratory cases in a 4‐week course within Animal Biotechnology. Overall, students regarded virtual laboratory simulation useful as part of their learning, and there is a significant increase in the level of acceptance before, during and post‐COVID recovery phases. The study showed that across the different study cohorts, students perceived their confidence level in laboratory skills have been enhanced and that they can apply the skills in real‐life situation. Interestingly, students (March and August 2020 cohort) who have not been exposed to the related laboratory session still perceived that the simulated activity provides clear explanation and realistic experience. Furthermore, it had been highlighted across the study cohorts that the quiz questions helped to enhance their understanding on the underlying principles of the laboratory techniques. The overall conclusion of this study was that structured simulation‐based activities which provide clear instructions and explanation would support significant improvements in students learning.
Association between diabetes mellitus and risk of Parkinson's disease: A prisma‐compliant meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Wei , Tang Jianfeng 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundPrevious studies showed inconsistent results regarding associations between diabetes mellitus (DM) and risk of Parkinson's disease (PD). The study aimed to make a meta‐analysis to clarify whether DM is a risk factor for PD.MethodsWe searched for articles regarding the effect of DM on risk of PD and published before July 2020 with search terms as follows: (“diabetes mellitus” OR “diabetes”) AND (“Parkinson's disease” OR “PD”) in the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. We used STATA 12.0 software to compute multivariate odds ratio (OR) or relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) regarding the association between DM and risk of PD.ResultsThe present study finally included 7 case–control studies (including 26,654 PD patients) and 9 cohort studies (including 3,819,006 DM patients) exploring the association between DM and risk of PD. The meta‐analysis indicated that DM was related to elevated risk of PD (OR/RR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.03–1.28, I2 = 92.4%, p < .001). Subgroup study showed that DM was associated with higher risk of PD in cohort studies (RR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.15–1.45, I2 = 93.9%, p < .001), whereas no significant association was indicated between DM and risk of PD in case–control studies (OR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.51–1.09, I2 = 82.3%, p < .001). Sensitivity analysis showed no changes in the direction of effect when any one study was excluded from all meta‐analyses. In addition, Begg's test, Egger's test, and funnel plot showed no significant risks of publication bias.ConclusionIn conclusion, we have tried to determine whether prior onset of DM may contribute to the risk of developing PD. More and more large‐scale prospective studies should be conducted to evaluate the relationship between DM and PD.
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats as an advanced treatment for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Mehmood Arshad , Ali Wajid , Din Zaheer Ud , Song Shuang , Sohail Muhammad , Shah Wahid , Guo Jiangyuan , Guo Ruo‐Yi , Ilahi Ikram , Shah Suleman , Al‐Shaebi Fadhl , Zeb Liaqat , Asiamah Ernest Amponsah , Al‐Dhamin Zaid , Bilal Hazrat , Li Bin 
Published: July 2021

AbstractRecently, genome‐editing technology like clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 has improved the translational gap in the treatments mediated through gene therapy. The advantages of the CRISPR system, such as, work in the living cells and tissues, candidate this technique for the employing in experiments and the therapy of central nervous system diseases. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a widespread, disabling, neurodegenerative disease induced by dopaminergic neuron loss and linked to progressive motor impairment. Pathophysiological basis knowledge of PD has modified the PD classification model and expresses in the sporadic and familial types. Analyses of the earliest genetic linkage have shown in PD the inclusion of synuclein alpha (SNCA) genomic duplication and SNCA mutations in the familial types of PD pathogenesis. This review analyzes the structure, development, and function in genome editing regulated through the CRISPR/Cas9. Also, it explains the genes associated with PD pathogenesis and the appropriate modifications to favor PD. This study follows the direction by understanding the PD linking analyses in which the CRISPR technique is applied. Finally, this study explains the limitations and future trends of CRISPR service in relation to the genome‐editing process in PD patients' induced pluripotent stem cells.
Wake‐up strokes are linked to obstructive sleep apnea and worse early functional outcome
Authors: Haula Tuuli‐Maria , Puustinen Juha , Takala Mari , Holm Anu 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackground and AimsPresence of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) and especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a known risk factor for ischemic stroke. Additionally, SDB effects negatively on recovery after stroke. Up to one fourth of strokes are present on awakening. The link between OSA and wake‐up stroke (WUS) has been suggested. We aim to determine the association between OSA and WUS in a Finnish stroke unit cohort.Material and MethodsAn observational prospective longitudinal study consisted of 95 TIA (transient ischemic attack) and mild to moderate stroke patients referred to a Stroke Unit in Finland. Respiratory polygraphy was performed within 72 h of hospital admission. Patients were classified into WUS and non‐WUS, and functional outcome measures (mRS, rehabilitation, hospitalization time) were collected. Functional outcomes and prevalence of OSA were compared between non‐WUS and WUS.ResultsOSA (AHI > 15/h) was more frequent among WUS than non‐WUS (71% and 36%, respectively, p = 0.009). Functional outcome measured with mRS was worse in patients with WUS than non‐WUS on registration day and at hospital discharge (p = 0.001). Need for rehabilitation in WUS was 43% of cases compared to 23% of non‐WUS (p = 0.067). Hospitalization time was longer (5–15days) in 55% of WUS and 41% of non‐WUS patients (p = 0.261).ConclusionModerate‐to‐severe OSA is related to WUS compared to non‐WUS. In addition, WUS have worse short‐term outcomes measured in mRS. Further studies are needed to determine if OSA is causally linked to WUS.