bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Fluorinated Imidazole[4,5f][1,10]phenanthroline Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of Liver Cancer Cell Proliferation by Inducing Apoptosis via DNA Damage
Authors: Bai Ming‐Jun , Liu Ning‐Zhi , Zhou Yu‐Ling , Liu Jie , Zou Jun , Tan Wei‐Jun , Huang Xiao‐Ting , Mei Wen‐Jie
Published: October 2021

Phenanthroline derivatives containing fluorinated imidazole ring are effective anti‐neoplastic agents. Herein, a series of four fluorinated imidazole[4,5f][1,10]phenanthroline derivatives were synthesized and investigated as potential inhibitors to fight against the growth of liver cancer cells. The in vitro antitumor activity of targeted compounds have been evaluated by using MTT assay, and results showed that compound 4 (2‐(2,3‐difluorophenyl)‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐f][1,10]phenanthroline) exhibited excellent inhibitory effect against the growth of various tumor cells, particularly for HepG2 cells, with IC50 value of approximately 0.29 μM. This result has been further confirmed by colony formation assay, showing that compound 4 suppressed the proliferation of HepG2 cells. Moreover, cell apoptosis (AO/PI dual staining and flow cytometry) analyses as well as comet assay showed that compound 4 may induce apoptosis of HepG2 cells through triggering DNA damage. Furthermore, the in vivo anti‐tumor activity were evaluated on zebrafish bearing HepG2 cells showed that compound 4 can observably block the growth of liver cancer cells. All in together, these compounds, particularly compound 4, may be developed as a potential agent to treat liver cancer in the future.
Identification of equine in vitro metabolites of seven non‐steroidal selective androgen receptor modulators for doping control purposes
Authors: Cutler Charlotte , Viljanto Marjaana , Taylor Polly , Hincks Pamela , Biddle Simon , Van Eenoo Peter
Published: October 2021

Selective androgen receptor modulators, SARMs, are a large class of compounds developed to provide therapeutic anabolic effects with minimal androgenic side effects. A wide range of these compounds are available to purchase online and thus provide the potential for abuse in sports. Knowledge of the metabolism of these compounds is essential to aid their detection in doping control samples. In vitro models allow a quick, cost‐effective response where administration studies are yet to be carried out. In this study, the equine phase I metabolism of the non‐steroidal SARMs GSK2881078, LGD‐2226, LGD‐3303, PF‐06260414, ACP‐105, RAD‐140 and S‐23 was investigated using equine liver microsomes. Liquid chromatography coupled to a QExactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer allowed identification of metabolites with high resolution and mass accuracy. Three metabolites were identified for both GSK2881078 and LGD‐2226, four for LGD‐3303 and RAD‐140, five for PF‐06260414, twelve for ACP‐105 and ten for S‐23. The equine metabolism of GSK‐2881078, LGD‐2226, LGD‐3303 and PF‐06260414 is reported for the first time. Although the equine metabolism of ACP‐105, RAD‐140 and S‐23 has previously been reported, the results obtained in this study have been compared with published data.
Historical Maps provide insight into a century and a half of habitat change in Fijian coasts
Authors: Lawson Katherine N. , Letendre Haleigh , Drew Joshua A.
Published: October 2021

Meaningful conservation goals require setting baselines derived from long‐term ecological records and information that is rare in many regions of the world. Historical data allow us to shift baselines back in time in order to strengthen conservation outcomes in the future.

To explore how different histories of land use and development influenced coastal ecosystems in two Fijian cities (Suva and Savusavu), we compared a series of historical navigational charts. These charts recorded change in coral reef area and coastal mangrove forests, as well as expansions of hardened shorelines. We used geographic information systems (GIS) to georeference and make quantitative comparisons starting in 1,840 in Suva and 1876 in Savusavu.

Our findings show that, despite increasing urbanization in the capital Suva, available coral reef habitat has not significantly changed in over 150 years, but development has hastened a nearly 50% loss of mangroves. Meanwhile, in the smaller city of Savusavu, coral habitats suffered significant loss in area and an increase in patchiness. As in Suva, shoreline hardening increased in Savusavu, but this change was not accompanied by a loss of mangroves.

Nautical charts provided hitherto unavailable information on the long‐term loss and alteration of coastal habitats in Fiji. Historical ecology allows scientists to combat shifting baseline syndrome and set measured standards for conservation objectives.
Intraseasonal predictability of natural phytoplankton population dynamics
Authors: Agarwal Vitul , James Chase C. , Widdicombe Claire E. , Barton Andrew D.
Published: October 2021

It is difficult to make skillful predictions about the future dynamics of marine phytoplankton populations. Here, we use a 22‐year time series of monthly average abundances for 198 phytoplankton taxa from Station L4 in the Western English Channel (1992–2014) to test whether and how aggregating phytoplankton into multi‐species assemblages can improve predictability of their temporal dynamics. Using a non‐parametric framework to assess predictability, we demonstrate that the prediction skill is significantly affected by how species data are grouped into assemblages, the presence of noise, and stochastic behavior within species. Overall, we find that predictability one month into the future increases when species are aggregated together into assemblages with more species, compared with the predictability of individual taxa. However, predictability within dinoflagellates and larger phytoplankton (>12 μm cell radius) is low overall and does not increase by aggregating similar species together. High variability in the data, due to observational error (noise) or stochasticity in population growth rates, reduces the predictability of individual species more than the predictability of assemblages. These findings show that there is greater potential for univariate prediction of species assemblages or whole‐community metrics, such as total chlorophyll or biomass, than for the individual dynamics of phytoplankton species.
Structural and Magnetic Studies on Lanthanide Bis(benzoxazol‐2‐yl)methanides
Authors: Lüert Daniel , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar
Published: October 2021

We describe the syntheses, solid‐state structures, and magnetic properties of lanthanide(III)‐tris(bis(heterocyclo)methanides) [(THF)M{(NCOC6H4)2CH}3], with M=Tb (1), Dy (2), Ho (3), and Er (4), respectively. The corresponding lanthanide bis(trimethylsilyl)amides have been prepared as starting materials to deprotonate the neutral bis(benzoxazol‐2‐yl)methane ({NCOC6H4}2CH2) at the central methylene bridge to generate the monoanionic ligand. In the course of this investigations the hitherto unknown holmium tris(bis(trimethylsilyl)amide) is communicated in here. X‐ray diffraction data of 1–4 demonstrate an almost planar ligand with metal coordination in an N,N'‐chelating fashion. Different to their d‐metal analogous the magnetic data of the f‐metal complexes presented here show no single‐molecule magnet (SMM) properties.
In Situ Growth of Ni–Zn–Fe Layered Double Hydroxide on Graphene Aerogel: An Advanced Two‐in‐One Material for Both the Anode and Cathode of Supercapacitors
Authors: Mousavi Mir F. , Rahmanifar Mohammad S. , Noori Abolhassan , Dadashpour Elaheh , Shabangoli Yasin
Published: October 2021

The push toward high‐performance supercapacitors calls for the development of efficient pseudocapacitive negative electrode materials that can better match the high capacitance of the typical positive electrodes. Herein, a facile and one‐pot hydrothermal approach for the in situ growth of the nickel–zinc–iron layered double hydroxide (LDH) onto the graphene aerogel (GA) substrate is introduced. Proper selection of the metal precursors with prominent pseudocapacitive behavior over a wide potential range coupled with the excellent double‐layer capacitive and charge transport properties of the GA network results in an LDH–GA nanocomposite that displays outstanding supercapacitive performances as both negative (387 F g−1, 101 mA h g−1, at 1.0 A g−1) and positive (1235 F g−1, 103 mA h g−1) electrodes. An aqueous LDH–GA//LDH–GA device with a wide voltage window (1.55 V) that demonstrates a significantly enhanced specific capacitance (304 F g−1 at 1.0 A g−1), outstanding specific energy (95 W h kg−1), appreciable specific power (81 kW kg−1), along with 88% retention of the initial capacitance after 10 000 cycles, is also fabricated. The superior supercapacitive performance of the Ni–Zn–Fe LDH–GA nanocomposite over both negative and positive voltage ranges opens a promising pathway toward manufacturing high‐energy supercapacitors for state‐of‐the‐art applications.
Evaluation of in vitro antioxidant activity of okra mucilage and its antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effect in alloxan‐induced diabetic mice
Authors: Uddin Zim A.F.M Irfan , Khatun Jannatara , Khan Mohammad Forhad , Hossain Md. Altaf , Haque Mohammad Mozibul
Published: October 2021

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a traditionally important vegetable herb used to treat numerous illnesses, including diabetes mellitus, in many rural parts of Bangladesh and the South Asian subcontinent. However, the scientific evidence for the aforementioned properties has not been adequately validated. Hence, the aim of this study was to explore the antidiabetic, antilipidemic activity of okra mucilage powder, and to compare its effectiveness with the isolated peel–seed of okra after mucilage extraction in Swiss albino mice. After extraction, both mucilage and peel–seed were made into powder. In addition, crude protein, mineral contents, and in vitro antioxidant activity of mucilage and peel–seed powder were assessed. After acute toxicity test, methanolic extracts of both powders were administered to alloxan‐induced diabetic mice for 3 weeks. Blood glucose levels were assessed weekly. Finally, blood samples were collected on day 21 to estimate blood glucose level, total protein (TP), and lipid profile levels. Okra mucilage powder showed less amount of protein, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and iron compared with peel–seed powder. In terms of antioxidant activity, the IC50 value and total phenolic content were found higher in okra mucilage powder in contrast to peel–seed powder. However, total flavonoid content was higher in peel–seed powder than mucilage powder. Three‐week administration of mucilage and peel–seed suspensions at a dose of 150 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg significantly (p < .05) reversed the abnormal changes of bodyweights, water consumption, feed consumption, and fasting blood glucose levels of diabetic subjects. Cholesterol, triglycerides, low‐density lipoproteins, high‐density lipoproteins, and total protein were found to be significantly (p < .05) improved after mucilage and peel–seed treatment. Thus, Okra can be recommended as a potential source of antidiabetic drug candidate for the effective management of diabetes mellitus and its complications.
Inhibition of monoamine oxidase B prevents reactive astrogliosis and scar formation in stab wound injury model
Authors: Chun Heejung , Lim Jiwoon , Park Ki Duk , Lee C. Justin
Published: October 2021

Reactive astrocytes manifest molecular, structural, and functional alterations under various pathological conditions. We have previously demonstrated that the reactive astrocytes of the stab wound injury model (STAB) display aberrant cellular gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) content and tonic GABA release, whereas the active astrocytes under enriched environment (EE) express high levels of proBDNF. However, the role of monoamine oxidase B (MAO‐B) in reactive astrogliosis and hypertrophy still remains unknown. Here, we investigate the role of MAO‐B, a GABA‐producing enzyme, in reactive astrogliosis in STAB. We observed that the genetic removal of MAO‐B significantly reduced the hypertrophy, scar formation, and GABA production of reactive astrocytes, whereas the MAO‐B overexpression under glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter enhanced the levels of GFAP and GABA. Furthermore, we found that one of the by‐products of the MAO‐B action, H2O2, but not GABA, was sufficient and necessary for the hypertrophy of reactive astrocytes. Notably, we identified two potent pharmacological tools to attenuate scar‐forming astrogliosis—the recently developed reversible MAO‐B inhibitor, KDS2010, and an H2O2 scavenger, crisdesalazine (AAD‐2004). Our results implicate that inhibiting MAO‐B activity has dual beneficial effects in preventing astrogliosis and scar‐formation under brain injury, and that the MAO‐B/H2O2 pathway can be a useful therapeutic target with a high clinical potential.
Advances in Stereoselective Iron(II)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Sulfilimines with N‐Mesyloxycarbamates
Authors: Lai Calvine , Lebel Hélène
Published: October 2021

A stereoselective amination of thioethers to access sulfilimines using N‐mesyloxycarbamates in a catalytic system composed of iron chloride (II) and a pyridine oxazoline (PyOX) ligand, has been developed. The reaction proceeds with modest to good yields and selectivities (up to 86 : 14 d.r. and 72 : 28 e.r.). Selectivity was controlled by both the structure of the chiral ligand and the amination reagent.
Towards value‐based healthcare: Establishing baseline pharmacy care costs for diabetes management
Authors: Alibrahim Abdullah , Abdulsalam Yousef , Al Mutawa Salma , Behbehani Hashem , Alhuwail Dari , Al Jenaei Saud
Published: October 2021

The prevalence of diabetes has increased by three folds over the last 20 years, and the global cost of diabetes mellitus surpassed one trillion US Dollars (USD) or 1.8% of the global GDP in 2015. Generally, prescription medication to treat complications of diabetes makes up nearly 30% of diabetes medical expenditures. To facilitate value‐based decision‐making at national and organizational levels, we analyzed the cost drivers of pharmacy services in a diabetes care institute by developing a flexible costing model that accounts for pharmaceuticals and labour costs of pharmacy processes. We calculated the direct pharmaceutical costs and the indirect labour costs at the activity level from electronic health records and observational data. On average, the cost of pharmacy services over 1 year was equivalent to 1246 USD per diabetes patient. Approximately 98% of the pharmacy costs were pharmaceutical costs, while 2% were attributable to labour. The flexible costing model and cost estimates are essential for value‐based comparisons of interventions and care redesign. The outlined costing framework and findings carry implications nationally and organizationally to accelerate the path towards value‐based healthcare delivery and provider reimbursement schemes through agile cost estimation, efficiency improvements, and higher value of care.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in liver transplant recipients in an era of routine prophylaxis
Authors: Andreasen Philip B. , Rezahosseini Omid , Møller Dina L. , Wareham Neval E. , Thomsen Magda T. , Houmami Ranya , Knudsen Andreas D. , Knudsen Jenny , Kurtzhals Jørgen A. L. , Rostved Andreas A. , Pedersen Christian R. , Rasmussen Allan , Nielsen Susanne D.
Published: October 2021

Background

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is an opportunistic infection in organ transplant recipients that may be prevented by antibiotic prophylaxis. We aimed to investigate the incidence rate (IR) of PCP and the related hospitalization and mortality rates in liver transplant recipients in an era of routine prophylaxis.

Methods

We included all adult liver transplant recipients transplanted at Rigshospitalet between January 1, 2011 and October 1, 2019. Microbiology data were obtained from the Danish Microbiology Database (MiBa), a national database containing all data from all Departments of Clinical Microbiology in Denmark receiving samples from both hospitals and general practices. According to local guidelines, PCP prophylaxis was initiated 1 week posttransplantation and discontinued after 6 months or sooner in patients experiencing side effects.

Results

We included 343 liver transplant recipients with 1153 person‐years of follow‐up (PYFU), of which 269 (78%) received PCP prophylaxis during the first 6 months posttransplantation. Seven (2%) recipients were diagnosed with PCP during follow‐up. In the first 6 months posttransplantation and in 269 transplant recipients who received prophylaxis there were zero PCP events while the IR was 32 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.9–148) per 1000 PYFU in 74 recipient who did not receive prophylaxis. During 7th to 12th month posttransplantation the IR was 20 (95% CI: 5.5–53) per 1000 PYFU. All seven (100%) recipients diagnosed with PCP were hospitalized, however none died.

Conclusions

PCP was not detected in liver transplant recipients while on prophylaxis. Though, it worth mentioning that two out of the seven PCP patients received high‐dose prednisolone before the PCP event. All liver transplant recipients with PCP were hospitalized, but none died. Randomized clinical trials to determine the optimal duration of prophylaxis are warranted.
Viscoelastic properties' characterization of corneal stromal models using non‐contact surface acoustic wave optical coherence elastography (SAW‐OCE)
Authors: Zhang Yilong , Zhou Kanheng , Feng Zhengshuyi , Feng Kairui , Ji Yubo , Li Chunhui , Huang Zhihong
Published: October 2021

Viscoelastic characterization of the tissue‐engineered corneal stromal model is important for our understanding of the cell behaviors in the pathophysiologic altered corneal extracellular matrix (ECM). The effects of the interactions between stromal cells and different ECM characteristics on the viscoelastic properties during an 11‐day culture period were explored. Collagen‐based hydrogels seeded with keratocytes were used to replicate human corneal stroma. Keratocytes were seeded at 8 × 103 cells per hydrogel and with collagen concentrations of 3, 5 and 7 mg/ml. Air‐pulse‐based surface acoustic wave optical coherence elastography (SAW‐OCE) was employed to monitor the changes in the hydrogels' dimensions and viscoelasticity over the culture period. The results showed the elastic modulus increased by 111%, 56% and 6%, and viscosity increased by 357%, 210% and 25% in the 3, 5 and 7 mg/ml hydrogels, respectively. To explain the SAW‐OCE results, scanning electron microscope was also performed. The results confirmed the increase in elastic modulus and viscosity of the hydrogels, respectively, arose from increased fiber density and force‐dependent unbinding of bonds between collagen fibers. This study reveals the influence of cell‐matrix interactions on the viscoelastic properties of corneal stromal models and can provide quantitative guidance for mechanobiological investigations which require collagen ECM with tuneable viscoelastic properties.
HIV service delivery in the time of COVID‐19: focus group discussions with key populations in India
Authors: Pollard Rose , Gopinath Usha , Reddy Yeruva A. , Kumar Bogam R. , Mugundu Parthasarathy , Vasudevan Canjeevaram K. , Srikrishnan Aylur K. , Singh Aditya , McFall Allison M. , Mayer Kenneth H. , Mehta Shruti H. , Solomon Sunil S.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

There are limited data on the impact of COVID‐19‐associated disruptions and novel HIV service delivery strategies among key populations (KPs) in low‐ and middle‐income countries. In March 2020, in response to COVID‐19, the Government of India revised HIV service delivery policies to include community antiretroviral therapy (ART) distribution and multi‐month dispensing (MMD) of ART for all people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Methods

To assess the acceptability of these adaptations and impact of the pandemic among KPs, we conducted focus groups in November–December 2020 with purposively sampled men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSWs) and transgender women (TGW) in Telangana and Maharashtra. Seven discussions were conducted. Topics included HIV service access, risk behaviours, economic security and feedback to ensure service continuity. Inductive coding identified themes across topics.

Results

Forty‐four individuals aged 20–49 years participated in discussions (13 MSM; 16 FSW; and 15 TGW). Twenty‐four participants self‐identified as living with HIV. People not living with HIV reported challenges in accessing HIV antibody testing at hospitals due to travel restrictions and fear of contracting COVID‐19. Participants accessed HIV antibody testing using transportation arranged by community‐based organizations after lockdowns eased. PLHIV reported uninterrupted ART refills and generally consistent adherence; however, there were experiences of delayed CD4 and HIV RNA testing. Participants shared appreciation for MMD as it saved time, money, and reduced exposure to COVID‐19. Participants expressed gratitude for home deliveries which enabled ART access, yet shared concerns about home‐based services causing confidentiality breaches with family/neighbours. Participants voiced preferences for community‐based service provision due to proximity, convenient hours, and welcoming environments compared to public hospitals. Other requests included support for income, employment, nutrient‐rich food and more accessible mental health, HIV, and other health services.

Conclusions

COVID‐19 restrictions had a greater impact on access to HIV antibody, CD4, and RNA testing services compared to ART access. High acceptance of MMD and community‐based services support the continued role of differentiated service delivery models to improve KP access to HIV antibody, CD4, RNA testing services, convenient ART retrieval, and integrated services beyond HIV, which may be critical for survival and wellbeing.
Changes in HIV treatment differentiated care uptake during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Zambia: interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Jo Youngji , Rosen Sydney , Sy Karla Therese L. , Phiri Bevis , Huber Amy N. , Mwansa Muya , Shakwelele Hilda , Haimbe Prudence , Mwenechanya Mpande M. , Lumano‐Mulenga Priscilla , Nichols Brooke E.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Differentiated service delivery (DSD) models aim to improve the access of human immunodeficiency virus treatment on clients and reduce requirements for facility visits by extending dispensing intervals. With the advent of the COVID‐19 pandemic, minimising client contact with healthcare facilities and other clients, while maintaining treatment continuity and avoiding loss to care, has become more urgent, resulting in efforts to increase DSD uptake. We assessed the extent to which DSD coverage and antiretroviral treatment (ART) dispensing intervals have changed during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Zambia.

Methods

We used client data from Zambia's electronic medical record system (SmartCare) for 737 health facilities, representing about three‐fourths of all ART clients nationally. We compared the numbers and proportional distributions of clients enrolled in DSD models in the 6 months before and 6 months after the first case of COVID‐19 was diagnosed in Zambia in March 2020. Segmented linear regression was used to determine whether the outbreak of COVID‐19 in Zambia further accelerated the increase in DSD scale‐up.

Results and discussion

Between September 2019 and August 2020, 181,317 clients aged 15 or older (81,520 and 99,797 from 1 September 2019 to 1 March 2020 and from 1 March to 31 August 2020, respectively) enrolled in DSD models in Zambia. Overall participation in all DSD models increased over the study period, but uptake varied by model. The rate of acceleration increased in the second period for home ART delivery (152%), 2‐month fast‐track (143%) and 3‐month MMD (139%). There was a significant reduction in the enrolment rates for 4‐ to 6‐month fast‐track (−28%) and “other“ models (−19%).

Conclusions

Participation in DSD models for stable ART clients in Zambia increased after the advent of COVID‐19, but dispensing intervals diminished. Eliminating obstacles to longer dispensing intervals, including those related to supply chain management, should be prioritized to achieve the expected benefits of DSD models and minimize COVID‐19 risk.
Current and future treatment approaches for Barth syndrome
Authors: Thompson Reid , Jefferies John , Wang Suya , Pu William T. , Takemoto Clifford , Hornby Brittany , Heyman Andrea , Chin Michael T. , Vernon Hilary J.
Published: October 2021

Barth Syndrome is an X‐linked disorder of mitochondrial cardiolipin metabolism caused by pathogenic variants in TAFAZZIN with pleiotropic effects including cardiomyopathy, neutropenia, growth delay, and skeletal myopathy. Management requires a multidisciplinary approach to the organ‐specific manifestations including specialists from cardiology, hematology, nutrition, physical therapy, genetics, and metabolism. Currently, treatment is centered on management of specific clinical features, and is not targeted toward remediating the underlying biochemical defect. However, two clinical trials have been recently undertaken which target the mitochondrial pathology of this disease: a study to examine the effects of elamipretide, a cardiolipin targeted agent, and a study to examine the effects of bezafibrate, a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) agonist. Treatments to directly target the defective TAFAZZIN pathway are under development, including enzyme and gene therapies.
Norovirus outbreak amid COVID‐19 in the United Kingdom; priorities for achieving control
Authors: Yasmin Farah , Ali Syed Hasan , Ullah Irfan
Published: October 2021

Norovirus, an enteric virus primarily responsible for gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide, is currently causing outbreaks around the United Kingdom during the COVID‐19 pandemic. With an already exhausted health care system, the significant burden norovirus can have on the National Health Service, including economic and social burdens, is immense and cannot be tolerated. Primary challenges and priorities to be focused on due to the increase in norovirus outbreaks include a further depletion of health care services, increase cases in schools, nurseries, and care facilities, underreporting of the cases, and no effective vaccine being available. Therefore, it is essential to increase awareness about norovirus and its transmission in public, take necessary precautions, and increase reporting of cases. This article discusses the impact norovirus has during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and the challenges, and recommendations to achieve control before it reaches epidemic levels.
A review of nutritional profile and processing of faba bean (Vicia faba L.)
Authors: Dhull Sanju Bala , Kidwai Mohd. Kashif , Noor Rashed , Chawla Prince , Rose Pawan Kumar
Published: October 2021

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.), a nutritious leguminous cool tolerant crop, is widely cultivated throughout the world. China, Ethiopia, the United Kingdom, Australia, and France are the main producers of faba beans. In recent years, interest has been growing in health and nutritional benefits of faba beans and developments of different foods enriched with biomolecules with improved functionality, nutrition value, and health benefits. Faba beans are rich source of lysine rich proteins, carbohydrate, minerals, vitamins, and numerous bioactive compounds. It is also a good source of l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐DOPA), which is a precursor of dopamine and can be potentially utilized for Parkinson's disease treatment. The seeds of faba beans can be consumed dry, roasted, soaked, cooked, frozen, or canned. However, a number of antinutritional factors such as phytic acid, trypsin inhibitors, saponins, vicin and convicine (favism‐inducing compounds), lectins, and condensed tannins negatively affect the biological value of faba beans resulting in its underutilization. For expanding the utilization of faba beans in human nutrition, the removal of these antinutrients is necessary. A number of methods including dehulling, soaking, germination, fermentation, and heat processing (cooking, boiling, extrusion, and autocalving) have been used individually or in combination to eliminate or destroy the antinutritional factors in faba beans. This comprehensive review covers global production, nutritional profile, and processing of faba beans and its utilization in various product developments.
Nonlinear Optics in Multipass Cells
Authors: Hanna Marc , Guichard Florent , Daher Nour , Bournet Quentin , Délen Xavier , Georges Patrick
Published: October 2021

The fundamental principles and experimental implementations of multipass cells used as a platform for nonlinear optics are reviewed. Embedding a nonlinear medium in a multipass cell allows for a distribution of the nonlinearity over large interaction distances, while the beam goes through multiple foci, conferring on the beam a robustness with respect to spatio‐spectral coupling effects. Most of the research so far has been focused on temporal compression based on self‐phase modulation, with excellent performances especially in terms of energy scaling and throughput. However, other nonlinear phenomena and functions are being increasingly investigated, such as supercontinuum generation, spectral compression, or Raman scattering. Nonlinear optics experiments in multipass cells bear some similarities with the work done in optical fibers over several decades, while allowing straightforward energy scaling potential, and unlocking engineering possibilities through the design of the cell mirrors, geometry, and nonlinear medium.
A Diagnostic Test Meta‐Analysis Evaluating Imaging‐Based and Blood Biomarker–Based Assessment Tools for Fibrosis After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Ng Cheng Han , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Lim Xiong Chang , Yong Jie Ning , Syn Nicholas , Soon Gwyneth Shook Ting , Huang Daniel Q. , Xiao Jieling , Lim Grace En Hui , Lim Wen Hui , Tan Eunice Xiang Xuan , Dan Yock Young , Noureddin Mazen , Siddiqui Mohammad Shadab , Muthiah Mark D.
Published: October 2021

Early detection of liver graft fibrosis is crucial for risk stratification to identify patients for liver biopsy and timely treatment. However, diagnostic accuracy of noninvasive tests (NITs) remains unclear. Thus, this study sought to evaluate diagnostic accuracy of NITs in assessing liver allograft fibrosis and compare the differences in specificities and sensitivities among NITs. Medline and Embase databases were searched to include articles on diagnostic tests in liver transplantation (LT) patients with fibrosis. A meta‐analysis on diagnostic test accuracy was conducted in a random‐effects model. Sensitivities and specificities among the diagnostic tests were compared, and threshold values were calculated where applicable. A total of 25 articles were included. Vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) met the minimum diagnostic accuracy requirements, yielding sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratios of 0.9 (CI, 0.8‐1.0), 0.9 (CI, 0.8‐1.0), and 379.6 (CI, 45.8‐1728.7), respectively. In the threshold assessment, the optimal cutoff was 9.30 kPa with a sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve of 0.7 (CI, 0.5‐0.9), 0.9 (CI, 0.8‐0.9), and 0.9 (CI, 0.8‐0.9), respectively. For significant fibrosis, acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) was superior to FibroTest (LabCorp [Burlington, NC]) and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) in sensitivity. VCTE was superior to FibroTest in specificity. For advanced fibrosis, ARFI was superior to the Fibrosis‐4 Index (FIB‐4) in sensitivity. VCTE was superior to the AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI), MRE, and FIB‐4 in specificity. In cirrhosis, VCTE was superior to APRI in specificity (P = 0.004) with comparable sensitivity. This study demonstrates the potential of VCTE and ARFI as diagnostic tools for fibrosis in LT recipients compared with blood‐based NITs, which were shown to be less optimal.
Reduced Platelet Adhesion for Blended Electrospun Meshes with Low Amounts of Collagen Type I
Authors: Sameti Mahyar , Clarke Kai , Dewan Prerona , Washington Kenyatta S. , Talebzadeh Somayeh , Liao Yi , Bashur Chris A.
Published: October 2021

A clinically approved, tissue engineered graft is needed as an alternative for small‐diameter artery replacement. Collagen type I is commonly investigated for naturally derived grafts. However, collagen promotes thrombosis, currently requiring a graft pre‐seeding step. This study investigates unique impacts of blending low collagen amounts with synthetic polymers on scaffold platelet response, which would allow for viable acellular grafts that can endothelialize in vivo. While platelet adhesion and activation are confirmed to be high with 50% collagen samples, low collagen ratios surprisingly exhibit the opposite, anti‐thrombogenic effect. Different platelet interactions in these blended materials can be related to collagen structure. Low collagen ratios show homogenous distribution of the components within individual fibers. Importantly, blended collagen scaffolds exhibit significant differences from gelatin scaffolds, including retaining percentage of collagen after incubation. These findings correlate with functional benefits including better endothelial cell spreading on collagen versus gelatin blended materials. This appears to differ from the current paradigm that processing with harsh solvents will irreversibly denature collagen into less desirable gelatin, but an important distinction is the interaction between collagen and synthetic materials during processing. Overall, excellent anti‐thrombogenic properties of low collagen blends and benefits after grafting show promise for this vascular graft strategy.
Oxygen‐Tolerant RAFT Polymerization Catalyzed by a Recyclable Biomimetic Mineralization Enhanced Biological Cascade System
Authors: Yuan Bolei , Huang Tingting , Wang Xinghuo , Ding Yi , Jiang Lin , Zhang Yunhe , Tang Jun
Published: October 2021

An enzyme cascade system including glucose oxidase (GOx) and iron porphyrin (DhHP‐6) is encapsulated in a metal–organic framework called zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) through one‐step facile synthesis. The composite (GOx&DhHP‐6@ZIF‐8) is then used to initiate oxygen‐tolerant reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization for different methacrylate monomers, such as 2‐diethylaminoethyl methacrylate, 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (Mn = 500 g mol−1). The composite shows the robustness toward solvent and temperatures, all polymerizations using above monomers and catalyzing by GOx&DhHP‐6@ZIF‐8 exhibits high monomer conversion (>85%) and narrow molar mass dispersity (<1.3). Besides, acrylic and acrylamide monomers such as 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate and N,N‐dimethylacrylamide are also carried to demonstrate the broad applicability. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance characterization and chain extension experiments confirm the retaining end groups of the resultant polymers, which is a significant feature of living polymerization. More importantly, the process of recycling the composite through a centrifuge is simplistic, and the composite still maintains similar activity compared to the original composites after five times. This low‐cost and easily separated composite catalyst represents a versatile strategy to synthesize well‐defined functional polymers suitable for industrial‐scale production.
Recent Advances in Diversity‐Oriented Polymerization Using Cu‐Catalyzed Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Lee In‐Hwan , Bang Ki‐Taek , Yang Hee‐Seong , Choi Tae‐Lim
Published: October 2021

Diversification of polymer structures is important for imparting various properties and functions to polymers, so as to realize novel applications of these polymers. In this regard, diversity‐oriented polymerization (DOP) is a powerful synthetic strategy for producing diverse and complex polymer structures. Multicomponent polymerization (MCP) is a key method for realizing DOP owing to its combinatorial features and high efficiency. Among the MCP methods, Cu‐catalyzed MCP (Cu‐MCP) has recently paved the way for DOP by overcoming the synthetic challenges of the previous MCP methods. Here the emergence and progress of Cu‐MCP, its current challenges, and future perspectives are discussed.
Farmer identities influence wildlife habitat management in the US Corn Belt
Authors: Dixon Adam P. , Arbuckle J. Gordon , Ellis Erle C.
Published: October 2021

Farmer wildlife management practices are critical to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem functions across intensively used agricultural landscapes. Policies and initiatives aimed at encouraging these practices have generally focused on economic incentives, with limited effectiveness.

Farmer identity theory addresses the emergence of norms, values and perceptions in farm management and can contribute to the development of policies and initiatives that engage more effectively with farmers and farming communities.

Here we evaluate linkages between farmer identity and wildlife habitat management practices in the intensively farmed US state of Iowa.

We conducted an exploratory factor analysis using data from a survey of over 1,300 Iowa farmers that asked their opinions on what constitutes ‘a good farmer’. We use logistic regression to model relationships between farmer identity factor scores and contextual variables against participation in a set of habitat management practices.

Four ‘good farmer’ identity types were identified and labelled as productivist, soil conservationist, wildlife conservationist and civic‐minded. Logistic regression results indicated that these farmer identity types have highly divergent responses to wildlife habitat management practices among Iowa farmers. Recreational factors may supplement identity and are also influential towards habitat production on farms.

We conclude that farmer identity theory offers a critical link between social and ecological processes on Iowa farms. The research presented here quantitatively associates farmer identity theory with wildlife habitat management, increasing our understanding of how wildlife habitat practices and individual‐level farmer identities interact.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Quantitative proteomic analysis of hepatic tissue in allotetraploid hybridized from red crucian carp and common carp identified crucial proteins and pathways associated with metabolism and growth rate
Authors: Yan Yujie , Wang Junting , Dong Xiaoping , Cai Yisheng , Wang Yude , Ren Li , Zhang Chun , Tao Min , Luo Kaikun , Zeng Yong , Liu Shaojun
Published: October 2021

Allotetraploid is a new species produced by distant hybridization between red crucian carp (Carassius auratus red var., abbreviated as RCC) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio L., abbreviated as CC). There is a significant difference in growth rate between allotetraploid and its parents. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is largely unknown. In this study, to find direct evidence associated with metabolism and growth rate in protein level, we performed quantitative proteomics analysis on liver tissues between allotetraploid and its parents. A total of 2502 unique proteins were identified and quantified by SWATH‐MS in our proteomics profiling. Subsequently, comprehensive bioinformatics analyses including gene ontology enrichment analysis, pathway and network analysis, and protein–protein interaction analysis (PPI) were conducted based on differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between allotetraploid and its parents. The results revealed several significant DEPs involved in metabolism pathways in liver. More specifically, the integrative analysis highlighted that the DEPs ACSBG1, OAT, and LDHBA play vital roles in metabolism pathways including “pentose phosphate pathway,” “TCA cycle,” and “glycolysis and gluconeogenesis.” These could directly affect the growth rate in fresh water fishes by regulating the metabolism, utilization, and exchange of substance and energy. Since the liver is the central place for metabolism activity in animals, we firstly established the comprehensive and quantitative proteomics knowledge base for liver tissue from freshwater fishes, our study may serve as an irreplaceable reference for further studies regarding fishes’ culture and growth.
Host‐mediated attenuation of gut sucrase in mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi impaired its parthenogenetic reproduction on Indian mustard Brassica juncea
Authors: Dhatwalia Deepa , Aminedi Raghavendra , Kalia Vinay , Pande Veena , Bhattacharya Ramcharan
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

The nefarious hemipteran mustard aphid (Lipaphis erysimi) inflicts colossal yield losses in Brassica crops including Indian mustard (Brassica juncea). Lack of an accessible resistance source has been the primary impediment in breeding varietal resistance against aphids. In recent years, in planta RNAi‐mediated resistance has been demonstrated in model plants as a potential tool for protection against insect pests. However, translational application in crop species is imperative for critical assessment of this technology in breeding effective resistance.

RESULTS

The essential role of sucrase 1 (SUC1) in mitigating osmotic pressure imposed by sucrose‐rich phloem sap inside the insect gut is corroborated by its expression pattern in L. erysimi. Transgenic lines of Indian mustard were developed expressing SUC1 hairpin RNA for its host‐mediated delivery into the infesting aphids. The expression of the dsRNA encoding cassette, and generation of siRNA molecules in transgenic B. juncea lines were verified by quantitative reverse transcription (RT)‐PCR, stem‐loop RT‐PCR and Northern hybridization. Rearing of L. erysimi on the transgenic lines resulted in 22–40% reduction in aphid fecundity. The observed retardation in aphid reproduction was coherent with the detection of SUC1‐specific siRNA molecules and attenuation of the SUC1 transcript level in L. erysimi fed on the transgenic lines.

CONCLUSION

Augmenting varietal resistance can substantially reduce usage of toxic agrochemicals in crop protection. This attempt was the first successful demonstration of host‐mediated RNAi of an aphid gene in any Brassica crop. It paves the way for more rigorous attempt of engineering RNAi‐based resistance against aphids in Brassica crops. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Au‐Free Ohmic Contacts and Their Impact on Sub‐Contact Charge Carrier Concentration in AlGaN/GaN Heterostructures
Authors: Garbe Valentin , Schmid Alexander , Seidel Sarah , Abendroth Barbara , Stöcker Hartmut , Doering Philipp , Meyer Dirk C. , Heitmann Johannes
Published: October 2021

The impact of an Au‐free Ti/Al/Ti/TiN (20/100/20/80 nm) ohmic contact metallization on an Al0.21Ga0.79N/GaN heterostructure is investigated. Using the transfer length method and Hall measurements, the sheet resistance and the carrier concentration below the contact are analyzed, depending on the post‐deposition annealing temperature. It is shown that with increasing annealing temperature, the carrier density below the contact is enhanced. This is caused by the contact formation mechanism, leading to an extremely low contact end resistance to the sub‐contact region of 0.04 Ω mm. However, while the sub‐contact semiconductor resistance is low, the contact (front) resistance to the device channel is 0.74 Ω mm after annealing at 900 °C, indicating a depletion of the sub‐contact 2D electron gas because of alloy formation.
A parameter‐free exponential control chart based on Kullback‐Leibler information for time‐between‐events monitoring
Authors: Chang Yu‐Ching , Wu Yi‐Cheng
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes a Kullback‐Leibler information (KLI) control chart for monitoring the occurrence rate of a process that follows an exponential distribution. The chart is designed for detecting a decrease, an increase, or both in the occurrence rate. Due to the skewness of the plotted statistic, the performance of the chart is investigated separately when the occurrence rate is estimated by the maximum likelihood estimator, the uniformly minimum variance unbiased estimator, and the minimum mean squared error estimator. The KLI chart is effective for a wide range of shifts of the occurrence rate. Its performance is slightly behind cumulative sum (CUSUM) and exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) charts around sizes of shift where these two charts are optimized. It outperforms these two charts elsewhere. The relative mean index (RMI) values show that the KLI chart has better overall performance. A backward empirical sequential test is used for the plotted statistic of the chart. It is shown equivalent to the cumulative sum scheme and the change point method for the generalized likelihood ratio chart in terms of run length. The use of KLI chart does not require any design parameter other than the control limit.
Building greener motorhomes: How dual‐purpose technical and relational capabilities affect component and full product innovation
Authors: Parmigiani Anne , Irwin Jennifer , Lahneman Brooke
Published: October 2021

Research Summary

This study investigates how dual‐purpose technical and relational capabilities influence two types of product innovation: component and full product. We consider product modification, manufacturing, supplier relationship, and customer relationship capabilities, analyzing their interactions and interrelationships through an inductive study set in the motorhome industry. We find patterns between capabilities and types of product innovations and then use a descriptive qualitative comparative analysis to refine and explore the nuances of these relationships, uncovering combinations of capabilities that enable and inhibit different types of product innovation. We thus provide empirical evidence for how dual‐purpose capabilities are deployed dynamically, in that skills can be used in both the normal course of business and to create something new.

Managerial Summary

Firms strive to innovate and create new full products and new components. Skills related to innovation include product modification, manufacturing, supplier management, and customer relations, all of which are also important for normal activities. While an adequate level of these capabilities can support the day‐to‐day business, a superior level is required to innovate. Our study of the motorhome industry indicates that supplier management is most important for component innovation and manufacturing expertise is most critical for full product innovation. However, we also find that a lack in some capabilities can be compensated for by superior capabilities in other areas, which could be important in situations of scarce resources and shows different possible paths toward product innovation.
Novel machine learning framework for thermal conductivity prediction by crystal graph convolution embedded ensemble
Authors: Sun Yajing , Hu Wenping
Published: October 2021

With the advent of the big data era, artificial intelligence technology has penetrated and deeply affected our daily life. In addition, data‐based machine learning algorithms have been applied to physics, chemistry, material science, and other basic science fields. However, the scarcity of data sets is known as the main obstacle to its development. Mining effective information from the limited data samples and building an appropriate machine learning algorithms framework are the major breakthroughs. For solid materials, the intrinsic properties are closely related to their atomic composition and relative positions, namely crystal structures. Here, inspired by the emerging of graph convolution neural network and material crystal graph, we proposed an integrated algorithms framework embedded crystal graph to train and predict the lattice thermal conductivities of crystal materials. This machine learning algorithms framework showed superior learning and generalization ability. In addition, not only in predicting thermal conductivities, but our framework also has great performance in predicting other phonon or electron‐related properties. This strategy provided a new approach in the design of machine learning framework, which indicated the great potential for the application of machine learning in material science.