bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biologics update: IL‐17 inhibitors
Authors: Sheth Samip , Wu Jashin J. , Han George Z.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Psoriasis is an immune‐mediated, multifactorial, systemic disease that has undergone a translational research revolution in the past two decades. As our understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis has improved, the interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) pathway has been elucidated as a key driver of chronic inflammation in psoriasis, which contributes to disease onset and progression. Biologic therapies targeting IL‐17 and its receptor have been developed to attenuate the IL‐17 pathway in patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. This review includes a discussion on the IL‐17 pathway and biologics targeting IL‐17 in clinical trials and practice for the treatment of psoriasis.

Objectives

The primary objective of this manuscript is to present safety and efficacy data from clinical trials released in 2018–2021 on IL‐17 therapies for the treatment of psoriasis. An update on the IL‐17 pathway will also be presented to inform the therapeutic development of IL‐17 biologics.

Methods

Review of randomized controlled trials on the efficacy and safety of current and upcoming IL‐17 biologics via an electronic literature search on PubMed, The Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Results

A total of five IL‐17 biologics were included: secukinumab, ixekizumab, broadalumab, ustekinumab, and sonelokimab. The latest clinical trial safety and efficacy data are presented.

Conclusion

The introduction of biologic IL‐17 therapies into clinical practice has ushered in a new era of treatment for psoriasis. With a greater understanding of the IL‐17 pathway and new IL‐17 biologics in clinical trials, physicians, and patients will have a greater number of options for more aggressive, targeted management of psoriasis.
Insulin action and secretion independent of traditional risk factors predict new‐onset type 2 diabetes in Iraqi and Swedish born citizens – The MEDIM cohort study
Authors: Pikkemaat Miriam , Larsson Lönn Sara , Bennet Louise
Published: October 2021

Aims

Our aim was to study the incidence of type 2 diabetes in a population‐based cohort of Swedish and Iraqi born individuals, focussing on traditional risk factors, insulin action, insulin secretion and ethnicity.

Materials and Methods

The cohort consisted of 1164 Iraqi and 693 Swedish‐born citizens. We investigated the association between new‐onset type 2 diabetes and the predictors including lifestyle factors, metabolic risk markers, country of birth, insulin sensitivity and secretion assessed by Matsuda index with Cox regression.

Results

Eighty‐nine individuals were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes with a mean follow‐up of 7.5 years. Both lower insulin sensitivity (ISI, HR 0.02 [0.01–0.08]) as well as insulin secretion (CIR, HR 0.13 [0.07–0.24]) at baseline predicted type 2 diabetes onset, independent of traditional risk factors. Our results were not modified by country of birth. Regarding traditional risk factors, WHR (1.05 [1.00–1.09]), blood glucose (3.27 [2.35–4.55]), LDL/HDL (1.46 [1.20–1.78]) and diastolic blood pressure (1.04 [1.00–1.07]) predicted diabetes incidence in the full model.

Conclusions

Both impaired insulin sensitivity index and corrected insulin response predicted type 2 diabetes onset, independent of traditional risk factors. We conclude that insulin secretion and action might be useful additional predictors for type 2 diabetes in populations of European and Middle Eastern ethnicities.
Diverse demographic factors influence apparent juvenile survival in a migratory songbird
Authors: White Emma M. , Perlut Noah G. , Travis Steven E. , Strong Allan M.
Published: October 2021

To better understand the dynamics of avian populations and their role in population trends, we require an in‐depth understanding of the factors influencing the survival of adults and juveniles. However, assessing survival in juveniles is often challenging, especially in small, migratory species where individuals typically disperse from the study area and are not available for recapture in subsequent years. Bobolinks (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) are a long‐distance migrant that exhibits natal philopatry in at least one population, allowing for more comprehensive juvenile survival analyses than in many other long‐distance avian migrants. Using a 17‐yr dataset from two sites representing a Vermont population of Bobolinks, we used Program MARK to assess factors influencing apparent juvenile survival, including factors related to nesting timing, nest attempt number, the philopatric behaviors of relatives, body mass, brood size, and agricultural management scheme. Our top models indicated that nest attempt number and whether or not a nest mate also survived and returned to breed locally were important factors explaining variation in apparent survival in juvenile Bobolinks. Specifically, juveniles from first nest attempts that fledged earlier in the season, with siblings that did not survive and return to breed locally, showed higher apparent survival. Factors such as site and the philopatric behavior of females associated with nests also appeared in top‐ranking models, while factors such as body mass and brood size did not. These results indicate the importance of providing high‐quality breeding habitat to birds early in the season when juvenile survival is greatest and indicate that individuals may be utilizing inbreeding avoidance strategies. These results provide new insight into the ecological and agricultural management factors influencing survival in migratory species that use managed habitats and underscore the importance of integrating juvenile survival data into current management schemes to better support this and other declining species.
Predicting burrowing crab impacts on salt marsh plants
Authors: Walker Janet B. , Grosholz Edwin D. , Long Jeremy D.
Published: October 2021

Burrowing animals profoundly influence plant communities, and changes in the burrower and plant communities together with changing abiotic parameters can shift the influence of burrowers on plants. However, we lack an ability to predict when, where, and how burrowers will influence vegetation. To begin to understand how naturally, varying environmental conditions influence the impacts of burrowers, we need to examine how burrower impacts on marsh plants differ across sites differing in environmental conditions. We manipulated crab presence for multiple years and measured the responses of the dominant plants, Pacific cordgrass (Spartina foliosa) and perennial pickleweed (Sarcocornia pacifica), at three sites in northern California and two sites in southern California. Southern California (Point Conception, CA, to the U.S.–Mexico border) experiences higher air and water temperatures, lower precipitation, and higher porewater salinity levels. Combining data from these field studies with laboratory studies allowed us to generate predictions about burrowing crab effects in salt marshes. Our models included (1) an estimate of grazing pressure on marsh plants by the dominant burrowing crab (Pachygrapsus crassipes) and (2) several soil biogeochemical measurements. Crab effects varied from strongly positive to strongly negative and depended upon estimated crab grazing pressure and edaphic conditions (salinity, ammonium, and nitrate). Relative to crabs at other sites, crabs enhanced cordgrass at sites with intermediate levels of ammonium and extreme salinities. The dependence of crab effects on edaphic conditions suggests that projected interannual variability in temperature, precipitation, and nutrients could lead to more temporally variable impacts of crabs on cordgrass. Understanding the environmental controls on these interactions will help promote cordgrass productivity and stabilize salt marsh ecosystems.
Investigating the relationship between serum uric acid to high‐density lipoprotein ratio and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Yazdi Farzaneh , Baghaei Mohammad Hassan , Baniasad Amir , Naghibzadeh‐Tahami Ahmad , Najafipour Hamid , Gozashti Mohammad Hossein
Published: October 2021

Aims

This study aimed to determine a parameter to more easily diagnose metabolic syndrome and predict its probability of occurrence in high‐risk individuals.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, data related to the study population in the Kerman Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factor Study (KERCADRS) were examined. Subjects were divided into two groups with and without metabolic syndrome, and the relevant factors such as the ratios of uric acid to high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) (UHR) in these two groups were compared, and the best cut‐off point was determined.

Results

Data related to 817 people including 96 people with metabolic syndrome and 721 people without metabolic syndrome were analysed. The mean UHR was significantly higher in patients with metabolic syndrome (14.76 ± 6.33%) compared with those without metabolic syndrome (10.0 ± 3.10%) (p < .001). People with high UHR are 2.9 times more at risk of metabolic syndrome and the best cut‐off point was 9.50% with 86% sensitivity and 55% specificity.

Conclusions

According to our study, UHR is also helpful in diagnosing metabolic syndrome and can also be used to screen people at risk for metabolic syndrome.
Predictive value of plasma volume status for contrast‐induced nephropathy in patients with heart failure undergoing PCI
Authors: He Chen , Zhang Sicheng , He Haoming , You Zhebin , Lin Xueqin , Zhang Liwei , Chen Jiankang , Lin Kaiyang
Published: October 2021

Aims

Contrast‐induced nephropathy remains a common complication of coronary procedure and increases poor outcomes, especially in patients with heart failure. Plasma volume expansion relates to worsening prognosis of heart failure. We hypothesized that calculated plasma volume status (PVS) might provide predictive utility for contrast‐induced nephropathy in patients with heart failure undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods and results

We enrolled 441 patients with heart failure undergoing elective PCI from 2012 to 2018. Pre‐procedural estimated PVS by the Duarte's formula (Duarte‐ePVS) and Kaplan–Hakim formula (KH‐ePVS) were calculated for all patients. CIN was defined as an absolute serum creatinine (SCr) increase ≥0.5 mg/dL or a relative increase ≥25% compared with the baseline value within 48 h of contrast medium exposure. We assessed the association between PVS and CIN in patients with heart failure undergoing elective PCI. In 441 patients, 28 (6.3%) patients developed CIN. The median Duarte‐ePVS was 4.44 (3.87, 5.13) and the median KH‐ePVS was −0.03 (−0.09, 0.05). The best cutoff values for Duarte‐ePVS and KH‐ePVS to predict CIN were 4.64 (with 78.6% sensitivity and 61.7% specificity) and 0.04 (with 64.5% sensitivity and 75.5% specificity), respectively. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, KH‐ePVS > 0.04 [odds ratio (OR) 2.685, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.012–7.123, P = 0.047] remained significantly associated with CIN whereas Duarte‐ePVS was not.

Conclusions

Pre‐procedural KH‐ePVS is an independent risk factor for CIN in patients with heart failure undergoing elective PCI. The best cutoff point of KH‐ePVS for predicting CIN was 0.04.
Ruthenium (II) Complexes Bearing Heteroleptic Terpyridine Ligands: Synthesis, Photophysics and Solar Energy Conversion
Authors: Jain Nimisha , Mary Angelina , Manjunath Vishesh , Sakla Rahul , Devan Rupesh S. , Jose D. Amilan , Naziruddin Abbas Raja
Published: October 2021

Heteroleptic ruthenium (II) complexes featuring donor functionalized phenyl‐terpyridine (ph‐tpy) and a monocarboxylic‐(ph‐tpy)/(tpy) are synthesized and characterized. Reactions of ruthenium (II) precursors at 80 °C favored heteroleptic complexes formation over the homoleptic side products. Visible light excitation of these complexes resulted in the metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) transitions. The inter‐planar torsional angle between the atoms of donor functionalized phenyl ring and the central pyridine (py) of the tpy core strongly influences visible light absorption and photovoltaic properties. The lower inter‐ring py‐ph torsion in the acceptor end of the MLCT structures and its increase in the oxidized doublets could prevent the back electron transfer. The ruthenium atom and the acceptor functionalized tpy host the triplet‐MLCT spin density. Ambient temperature excited‐state decay followed the energy gap law and occurred in the order of a few nanoseconds. Herein, we evaluate the photosensitizing ability of these complexes via a combined experimental and computational approach.
One‐Pot Mitsunobu Protocol to Access Ketene S,S‐/N,S‐Acetals at Room Temperature
Authors: Saha Priya , Ansari Monish Arbaz , Shukla Gaurav , Singh Maya Shankar
Published: October 2021

With unique chemical reactivity, α‐oxoketene S,S‐ and N,S‐acetals have attracted enormous attention in the past decades, whereas limited reports exist for their synthesis via eco‐compatible protocols. Herein, we developed a one‐pot protocol for symmetrical and unsymmetrical α‐oxoketene S,S‐/N,S‐acetals through chemoselective alkylation of α‐enolic dithioesters using Mitsunobu chemistry at room temperature. The operationally simple and user‐friendly mild protocol tolerates a wide range of alcohols and α‐enolic dithioesters/β‐ketothioamides. Short reaction time, good yields, highly selective C−S functionalization, and E/Z‐stereoselectivity are imperative characteristics of this strategy.
Sediment‐ecological connectivity in a large river network
Authors: Kemper John T. , Thaxton Richard D. , Rathburn Sara L. , Friedman Jonathan M. , Mueller Erich R. , Scott Michael L.
Published: October 2021

Sediment eroded from the headwaters of a large basin strongly influences channels and ecosystems far downstream, but the connection is often difficult to trace. Disturbance‐dependent riparian trees are thought to rely primarily on floods for formation of the sand bars necessary for seedling establishment, but pulses of sediment should also promote formation of such features. In order to expand understanding of the role of sediment connectivity in governing ecological processes, here we explore the hypothesis that cottonwood forest along the Green and Yampa Rivers in Utah and Colorado are dominated by trees established a century ago during a period of extensive channel migration caused by significant headwater erosion. Analysis of historical documents and aerial photographs suggests that three key tributaries of the Yampa River underwent significant historical erosion from roughly 1880 to 1940. Average width and depth of tributaries with defined arroyos increased two to six times from historical surveys, resulting in the export of ~30 million metric tons of sediment, sizably increasing the sediment load and channel migration rate of the Yampa and Green Rivers. Establishment of major portions of several downstream cottonwood forests occurred during this period of historical erosion, increased sediment loads, and heightened channel migration rates, and the area of forest dating to that time is much greater than can be explained by high flows alone. Viewed collectively, our findings suggest tributary erosion played a vital role in successful downstream forest establishment, a link we contend is best illustrated through a sediment‐ecological connectivity framework. Broadly, this framework facilitates consideration of linkages between morphological and ecological processes at the watershed‐scale. Development and utilization of a watershed‐scale sediment‐ecological connectivity perspective highlights the value of sediment as a critical ecological resource to be managed jointly with flow to ensure the maintenance of vital riverine ecosystems.
Lnc‐MEG3 inhibits invasion, migration, and epithelial– mesenchymal transition of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by regulating sequestosome 1
Authors: Zhou Caifeng , Cao Huiling , Meng Xinyu , Zhang Qiyao
Published: October 2021

Background

Long non‐coding RNAs regulate malignant behaviors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). We aim to investigate the roles and mechanisms of long non‐coding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 (lnc‐MEG3) in NPC.

Methods

The expression levels of lnc‐MEG3 and sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) in NPC tissues and cell lines were detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Cell invasion and migration abilities were evaluated using transwell and wound healing assays, respectively.

Results

Downregulated lnc‐MEG3 expression and upregulated SQSTM1 expression were found in NPC tissues and cells. Overexpression of lnc‐MEG3 inhibited invasion, migration, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in NPC cells. Overexpression of lnc‐MEG3 reduced the expression level of SQSTM1, and SQSTM1 expression was inversely correlated with lnc‐MEG3 level in NPC tissues. Besides, overexpression of SQSTM1 reversed the effects of lnc‐MEG3 overexpression. Moreover, knockdown of lnc‐MEG3 enhanced NPC progression while its effects were eased by SQSTM1 silence.

Conclusion

Lnc‐MEG3 inhibits malignant behaviors by regulating SQSTM1 expression. It may serve as a therapeutic target to treat NPC.
Taurolithocholic acid but not tauroursodeoxycholic acid rescues phagocytosis activity of bone marrow‐derived macrophages under inflammatory stress
Authors: Wu Siyu , Romero‐Ramírez Lorenzo , Mey Jörg
Published: October 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes cell death and consequently the breakdown of axons and myelin. The accumulation of myelin debris at the lesion site induces inflammation and blocks axonal regeneration. Hematogenous macrophages contribute to the removal of myelin debris. In this study, we asked how the inflammatory state of macrophages affects their ability to phagocytose myelin. Bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDM) and Raw264.7 cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) or interferon gamma (IFNγ), which induce inflammatory stress, and the endocytosis of myelin was examined. We found that activation of the TLR4‐NFκB pathway reduced myelin uptake by BMDM, while IFNγ‐Jak/STAT1 signaling did not. Since bile acids regulate lipid metabolism and in some cases reduce inflammation, our second objective was to investigate whether myelin clearance could be improved with taurolithocholic acid (TLCA), tauroursodeoxycholic acid or hyodeoxycholic acid. In BMDM only TLCA rescued myelin phagocytosis, when this activity was suppressed by LPS. Inhibition of protein kinase A blocked the effect of TLCA, while an agonist of the farnesoid X receptor did not rescue phagocytosis, implicating TGR5‐PKA signaling in the effect of TLCA. To shed light on the mechanism, we measured whether TLCA affected the expression of CD36, triggering receptor on myeloid cells‐2 (TREM2), and Gas6, which are known to be involved in phagocytosis and affected by inflammatory stimuli. Concomitant with an increase in expression of tumour necrosis factor alpha, LPS reduced expression of TREM2 and Gas6 in BMDM, and TLCA significantly diminished this downregulation. These findings suggest that activation of bile acid receptors may be used to improve myelin clearance in neuropathologies.
Glucose 6‐P dehydrogenase delays the onset of frailty by protecting against muscle damage
Authors: Arc‐Chagnaud Coralie , Salvador‐Pascual Andrea , Garcia‐Dominguez Esther , Olaso‐Gonzalez Gloria , Correas Angela G. , Serna Eva , Brioche Thomas , Chopard Angele , Fernandez‐Marcos Pablo J. , Serrano Manuel , Serrano Antonio L. , Muñoz‐Cánoves Pura , Sebastiá Vicente , Viña Jose , Gomez‐Cabrera Mari Carmen
Published: October 2021

Background

Frailty is a major age‐associated syndrome leading to disability. Oxidative damage plays a significant role in the promotion of frailty. The cellular antioxidant system relies on reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) that is highly dependent on glucose 6‐P dehydrogenase (G6PD). The G6PD‐overexpressing mouse (G6PD‐Tg) is protected against metabolic stresses. Our aim was to examine whether this protection delays frailty.

Methods

Old wild‐type (WT) and G6PD‐Tg mice were evaluated longitudinally in terms of frailty. Indirect calorimetry, transcriptomic profile, and different skeletal muscle quality markers and muscle regenerative capacity were also investigated.

Results

The percentage of frail mice was significantly lower in the G6PD‐Tg than in the WT genotype, especially in 26‐month‐old mice where 50% of the WT were frail vs. only 13% of the Tg ones (P < 0.001). Skeletal muscle transcriptomic analysis showed an up‐regulation of respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation (P = 0.009) as well as glutathione metabolism (P = 0.035) pathways in the G6PD‐Tg mice. Accordingly, the Tg animals exhibited an increase in reduced glutathione (34.5%, P < 0.01) and a decrease on its oxidized form (−69%, P < 0.05) and in lipid peroxidation (4‐HNE: −20.5%, P < 0.05). The G6PD‐Tg mice also showed reduced apoptosis (BAX/Bcl2: −25.5%, P < 0.05; and Bcl‐xL: −20.5%, P < 0.05), lower levels of the intramuscular adipocyte marker FABP4 (−54.7%, P < 0.05), and increased markers of mitochondrial content (COX IV: 89.7%, P < 0.05; Grp75: 37.8%, P < 0.05) and mitochondrial OXPHOS complexes (CII: 81.25%, P < 0.01; CIII: 52.5%, P < 0.01; and CV: 37.2%, P < 0.05). Energy expenditure (−4.29%, P < 0.001) and the respiratory exchange ratio were lower (−13.4%, P < 0.0001) while the locomotor activity was higher (43.4%, P < 0.0001) in the 20‐month‐old Tg, indicating a major energetic advantage in these mice. Short‐term exercise training in young C57BL76J mice induced a robust activation of G6PD in skeletal muscle (203.4%, P < 0.05), similar to that achieved in the G6PD‐Tg mice (142.3%, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Glucose 6‐P dehydrogenase deficiency can be an underestimated risk factor for several human pathologies and even frailty. By overexpressing G6PD, we provide the first molecular model of robustness. Because G6PD is regulated by pharmacological and physiological interventions like exercise, our results provide molecular bases for interventions that by increasing G6PD will delay the onset of frailty.
H19X‐encoded miR‐322(424)/miR‐503 regulates muscle mass by targeting translation initiation factors
Authors: Liang Rui , Shen Xiaopeng , Wang Fan , Wang Xin , DesJarlais Alex , Syed Anam , Saba Raymond , Tan Zhi , Yu Fang , Ji Xuan , Shrestha Shreesti , Ren Yinghong , Yang Jin , Park Yoonjung , Schwartz Robert J. , Soibam Benjamin , McConnell Bradley K. , Stewart M. David , Kumar Ashok , Liu Yu
Published: October 2021

Background

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a debilitating complication of many chronic diseases, disuse conditions, and ageing. Genome‐wide gene expression analyses have identified that elevated levels of microRNAs encoded by the H19X locus are among the most significant changes in skeletal muscles in a wide scope of human cachectic conditions. We have previously reported that the H19X locus is important for the establishment of striated muscle fate during embryogenesis. However, the role of H19X‐encoded microRNAs in regulating skeletal mass in adults is unknown.

Methods

We have created a transgenic mouse strain in which ectopic expression of miR‐322/miR‐503 is driven by the skeletal muscle‐specific muscle creatine kinase promoter. We also used an H19X mutant mouse strain in which transcription from the locus is interrupted by a gene trap. Animal phenotypes were analysed by standard histological methods. Underlying mechanisms were explored by using transcriptome profiling and validated in the two animal models and cultured myotubes.

Results

Our results demonstrate that the levels of H19X microRNAs are inversely related to postnatal skeletal muscle growth. Targeted overexpression of miR‐322/miR‐503 impeded skeletal muscle growth. The weight of gastrocnemius muscles of transgenic mice was only 54.5% of the counterparts of wild‐type littermates. By contrast, interruption of transcription from the H19X locus stimulates postnatal muscle growth by 14.4–14.9% and attenuates the loss of skeletal muscle mass in response to starvation by 12.8–21.0%. Impeded muscle growth was not caused by impaired IGF1/AKT/mTOR signalling or a hyperactive ubiquitin–proteasome system, instead accompanied by markedly dropped abundance of translation initiation factors in transgenic mice. miR‐322/miR‐503 directly targets eIF4E, eIF4G1, eIF4B, eIF2B5, and eIF3M.

Conclusions

Our study illustrates a novel pathway wherein H19X microRNAs regulate skeletal muscle growth and atrophy through regulating the abundance of translation initiation factors, thereby protein synthesis. The study highlights how translation initiation factors lie at the crux of multiple signalling pathways that control skeletal muscle mass.
Quality Control of Magnetic Resonance Elastography Using Percent Measurable Liver Volume Estimation
Authors: Ballard David H. , Ludwig Daniel R. , Fraum Tyler J. , Salter Amber , Narra Vamsi R. , Shetty Anup S.
Published: October 2021

Background

Although studies have described factors associated with failed magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), little is known about what factors influence usable elastography data.

Purpose

To identify factors that have a negative impact on percent measurable liver volume (pMLV), defined as the proportion of usable liver elastography data relative to the volume of imaged liver in patients undergoing MRE.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

A total of 264 patients (n = 132 males, n = 132 females; mean age = 57 years) with suspected or known chronic liver disease underwent MRE paired with a liver protocol MRI.

Field strength/Sequence

MRE was performed on a single 1.5 T scanner using a two‐dimensional gradient‐recalled echo phase‐contrast sequence with a passive acoustic driver overlying the right hemiliver.

Assessment

Stiffness maps (usable data at 95% confidence) and liver contours on magnitude images of the MRE acquisition were manually traced and used to assess mean stiffness and pMLV. Hepatic fat fraction and R2* values were also calculated. The distance from the acoustic wave generator on the skin surface to the liver edge was measured. Two radiologists performed the MR analyses with 50 overlapping cases for inter‐reader analysis.

Statistical Tests

Linear regression was performed to identify factors significantly associated with pMLV. Intraclass correlation was performed for inter‐reader reliability.

Results

pMLV was 31% ± 20% (range 0%–86%). Complete MRE failure (i.e. pMLV = 0%) occurred in 10 patients (4%). Multivariate linear regression identified higher hepatic fat fraction, R2*, BMI, and driver‐to‐liver surface distance; male sex; and lower mean liver stiffness was significantly independently associated with lower pMLV. Intraclass correlation for pMLV was 0.96, suggestive of excellent reliability.

Data Conclusion

Higher fat fraction, R2*, BMI, driver‐to‐liver surface distance, male sex, and lower mean liver stiffness were associated with lower pMLV. Optimization of image acquisition parameters and driver placement may improve MRE quality, and pMLV likely serves as a diagnostic utility quality control metric.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Transanal excision with adjuvant therapy for pT1N0 rectal tumors with high‐risk features offers equivalent survival to radical resection: A National Cancer Database analysis
Authors: Hrebinko Katherine A. , Reitz Katherine M. , Mohammed Maryam K. , Nassour Ibrahim , Watson Andrew R. , Cunningham Kellie E. , Medich David S. , Celebrezze James P. , Holder‐Murray Jennifer M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Current guidelines favor transabdominal radical resection (RR) over transanal local excision (TAX) followed by adjuvant therapy (TAXa) for pT1N0 rectal tumors with high‐risk features. Comparison of oncologic outcomes between these approaches is limited, although the former is associated with increased postoperative morbidity. We hypothesize that such treatment strategies result in equivalent long‐term survival.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the National Cancer Database (2010–2016) to identify patients with pT1N0 rectal adenocarcinoma with high‐risk features who underwent TAX or RR for curative intent. The primary outcome was 5‐year overall survival (OS), evaluated with log‐rank and Cox‐proportional hazards testing.

Results

A total of 1159 patients (age 67.4 ± 12.9 years; 56.6% male; 83.3% White) met study criteria, of which 1009 (87.1%) underwent RR and 150 (12.9%) underwent TAXa. Patients undergoing TAXa had shorter lengths of stay (RR = 6.5 days, TAXa = 2.7 days, p < 0.001). The 5‐year OS was equivalent between groups. TAX without adjuvant therapy was associated with an increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio 1.81, 95% confidence interval 1.17–2.78, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

This is the largest study to demonstrate equivalent 5‐year OS between TAXa and RR for T1N0 rectal cancer with high‐risk features. These findings may guide the development of prospective, randomized trials and influence changes in practice recommendations for early‐stage rectal cancer.
Almost surely exponential stability of semi‐Markovian switched singular stochastic systems with mode‐dependent ranks
Authors: Hu Zenghui , Mu Xiaowu
Published: October 2021

This paper investigated the almost surely exponential stability (ES a.s.) for semi‐Markovian switched singular stochastic systems (SSSSs) with mode‐dependent ranks, in which the derivative matrices Ei have different ranks. Due to the constraint of consistent initial conditions, state jumps may occur at switching instants in switched singular systems. Some more general conditions for the existence and uniqueness of the solution of semi‐Markovian SSSSs with mode‐dependent ranks are given together with a detailed analysis of state jumps. Based on the equivalent systems transformation and multiple Lyapunov functions method, novel conditions of ES a.s. are presented for addressed systems. An example is given to explain the effectiveness of developed results.
Using suicide notes to understand suicide among cancer patients: A mixed‐method study
Authors: Men Yu Vera , Yeung Cheuk Yui , Lam Tai‐Chung , Fai Yip Paul Siu , Emery Clifton R.
Published: October 2021

Background

Cancer patients are at risk of suicide. However, no studies have used suicide notes to investigate their expressed reasons for suicide. The objectives of this study were to compare the characteristics between note leavers and non‐leavers among cancer suicide cases and to understand the patterns in expressed reasons for suicide using suicide notes.

Method

Suicide cases (2012–2017) were identified from the Hong Kong Coroner's Court reports, which provide detailed information as well as the content of suicide notes. Bivariate tests and multiple logistic regression were performed to compare the characteristics of note leavers and non‐leavers among suicide cases with cancer. Thematic analysis was performed on suicide notes to extract themes of expressed reasons for suicides by cancer status and age group.

Results

Among cancer suicide cases and compared to non‐leavers, note leavers were younger, more likely to be male, use non‐violent suicide methods, have better housing conditions, and live alone. Suffering from physical disease was a major theme identified among cancer note leavers across all age groups. Young and middle‐aged non‐cancer note leavers had various themes identified. Physical illness was the major theme for elderly non‐cancer note leavers.

Conclusions

Cancer note leavers had unique characteristics and suffering from physical illness was the major expressed reason identified in the suicide notes. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to the mental as well as the physical needs of patients. Improving quality of life and regaining control of life are vital for suicide prevention among cancer patients.
Proteomic profiles of Zika virus‐infected placentas bearing fetuses with microcephaly
Authors: Quiñones‐Vega Mauricio , Velásquez Erika , Sosa‐Acosta Patricia , Melo Adriana , Garcez Patrícia P. , Nogueira Fábio C.S. , Domont Gilberto B.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Zika virus (ZIKV) transmission to the fetus during pregnancy could enable a collection of severe fetal malformations like microcephaly (MC), termed Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS). The mechanisms involved in ZIKV transplacental transmission are not fully understood.

Experimental Design

Here we aim to identify in placental tissues the deregulated proteins associated with ZIKV‐induced MC using label‐free proteomics.

Results

We found proteins associated with DNA damage and gene expression inhibition up‐regulated in infected placentas with no MC fetuses (Z+) compared to the control group (Ctr). Actin filament organization and the immune response were also found deregulated in the Z+ group. In ZIKV‐positive placentas bearing fetuses with MC (MC+) was detected an increase in T cell activation, indicating an elevated immune response. A comparison between MC+ and Z+ groups showed a higher abundance of proteins related to endocytosis and autophagy in MC+, suggesting a higher transcytosis of vesicles with ZIKV particles across the maternal‐fetal interface.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our results suggest that higher expression of integrins in MC+ might be associated with high internalization of the virus since these proteins are known as virus receptors. Similarly, an increased immune response in the placenta and higher infiltration of the virus to the fetus could contribute to the neurological malformation of the CZS.
Intrinsic Electric Field and Excellent Photocatalytic Solar‐to‐Hydrogen Efficiency in 2D Janus Transition Metal Dichalcogenide
Authors: Liu Xiaoqing , Kang Wei , Zhao Jinghong , Wang Yan , Wang Wei , Wang Lin , Fang Liang , Chen Qian , Zhou Miao
Published: October 2021

By using systematic first‐principles calculations, the stability and electronic properties of 2D Janus transition metal dichalcogenides with intrinsic electric field for photocatalytic applications are investigated. A total of 18 MXY (M = V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W; X/Y = S, Se, Te) have been considered, in which nine structures are found to be stable, as indicated by phonon spectra and molecular dynamics simulations. By comparing the type and size of bandgap, carrier mobility of electrons/holes, and vacuum level difference of X/Y surfaces, the following three candidates are successfully obtained: CrSSe, MoSSe, and WSSe, which show promising photocatalytic activity toward water splitting. In particular, the computed conduction band edge of one surface is much higher than the redox potential of H+/H2, and valence band edge of the other surface is significantly lower than the oxidation potential of H2O/O2, which is beneficial for maximized performance. As a direct‐bandgap semiconductor, 2D CrSSe exhibits excellent visible‐infrared light absorption capability, and the predicted solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency reaches an unprecedented level of 30%. These results not only provide physical insights into the design of novel 2D structures, but also shed light on their future implementation for photocatalytic water splitting and other important energy‐related applications.
An Ultrahigh Performance Enzyme‐Free Electrochemical H2O2 Sensor Based on Carbon Nanopores Encapsulated Ultrasmall Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Tingting , Chen Qian , Wang Yi , Long Yan , Jiang Yanshu , Fan Guangyin
Published: October 2021

Small metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) that possess abundant accessible active areas and optimal geometric/electronic structures show great promise in electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) but remain a synthetic challenge. Herein, a simple adsorption‐annealing synthetic strategy is employed for ultrasmall Co3O4 NPs using the confinement of carbon nanopores in porous carbon (PC). The characterization results indicate that Co3O4 NPs with an ultrafine diameter of 3.01 nm are well distributed on PC (Co3O4/PC−H) with high density because of the carbon nanopore confinement of the support. The achieved Co3O4/PC−H can be used as an excellent electrocatalyst for H2O2 detection, with a high sensitivity of 332 μA mM−1 cm−2, a low detection limit of 1.2 μM, and an excellent linear detection ranges from 0.04 to 20 mM. This catalyst can also be employed for sensing H2O2 in real samples. The large specific surface area and unique morphology and structure of Co3O4/PC−H contribute to the high performance for H2O2 detection. Provided herein is a facile but efficient strategy for the synthesis of enzyme‐free electrochemical H2O2 sensor for analytical applications.
An Overview of Silver‐Catalyzed Mannich Reactions
Authors: Neetha Mohan , Saranya Padinjare Veetil , Philip Rose Mary , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: October 2021

Mannich reactions are one among the most investigated reactions in organic chemistry. Recently, silver‐catalyzed Mannich reactions have gained much recognition owing to the efficiency of silver catalysis. The review encompasses the various strategies towards silver‐catalyzed Mannich reactions and cases literature up to 2021.
Design, Synthesis and Photoluminescence Sensing Property of a Ni‐Organic Material Achieved from 2,6‐Di(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl) Naphthalene and Carboxylic Acid Ligands
Authors: Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Jin Heng‐Hui , Liu Ran‐Ran , Wang Zhi‐Ping , Huang Hui‐Hui
Published: October 2021

A new metal‐organic framework (MOF) compound, [Ni(L)(IDC)(H2O)] ⋅ 0.5 L (1), (H2IDC=4,4′‐iminodibenzoic acid), was synthesized by solvothermal reaction of 2,6‐di(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)naphthalene (L) and dicarboxylic acid ligands with nickel salt. The results of single crystal diffraction show that the framework belongs to the P21/c space group and has a unique infinite one‐dimensional (1D) chain structure. They are further linked together through imidazole interaction and finally form a three‐dimensional (3D) structure. The crystal structure was characterized by Powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), infrared spectra (IR) and elemental analyses (EA). Meanwhile, the thermal stability and luminescence properties of the crystal were tested. It was found that 1 could recognize acetone molecules by luminescence quenching. It has proved itself an efficient sensor for acetone at low con‐centration.
Facile, Label‐Free, Non‐Enzymatic Electrochemical Nanobiosensor Platform as a Significant Step towards Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Gangwar Rahul , Subrahmanyam Challapalli , Vanjari Siva Rama Krishna
Published: October 2021

The paper proposes a low‐cost, facile methodology to develop a non‐enzymatic glucose sensor by utilizing the inherent affinity of Boronic Acid moieties towards glucose along with the enhanced electrochemical activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The AuNPs were electrochemically deposited onto the surface of the indigenous carbon paste wire electrodes to enhance both the active area and the kinetics of the electrodes, thereby increasing the sensitivity of the detection. The sensitivity and limit of detection of the proposed biosensor, as established using Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), was found to be 0.0254 [(μA/(mg/dL))/mm2] and 0.085 mg/dL, respectively. The interference and selectivity studies with the most common interference species, such as acrylic acid, uric acid, and salicylic acid, plasma, NaCl, and KCl, carried out resulted in negligible interference. The bio‐electrodes also showed excellent stability and shelf‐life, making them a potential candidate for non‐enzymatic glucose monitoring.
β‐Ketoesters: An Overview and It's Applications via Transesterification
Authors: Rao Gullapalli. B. Dharma , Anjaneyulu Bendi , Kaushik Mahabir. P. , Prasad Mailavaram. R.
Published: October 2021

The transesterification process has attained more significant importance in synthesizing a variety of commercial and non‐commercial β‐ketoesters using alcohols and variety of acetoacetates. β‐Ketoesters have been considered essential synthons in synthetic organic chemistry because of electrophilic and nucleophilic reactive sites and are used as key intermediates in synthesizing the diversity of complex drug molecules. This review provides an overview of the synthesis of β‐ketoesters, various reaction mechanisms, substrate scope, and diverse applications in the bio‐diesel industry and the pharmaceutical industry to synthesize novel drug molecules via transesterification transformation.
Diimides and Aminomethane Based Multifunctional Organic Crystals: Photochromism, Electrochromism, and Application as Cathode in Lithium Battery
Authors: Wu Debo , Zhu Yudie , Jia Wansheng , Ran Youyuan , Wang Li
Published: October 2021

Organic electrode materials evoked wide attention due to the abundance of raw materials. Incorporating redox‐active units into organic electrode materials could expand the functionality of this class of materials. In this work, three organic crystals of OC‐1, OC‐2 and OC‐3 were synthesized based on the reaction between aminomethane and pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA), 1,4,5,8‐naphthalenete‐tracarboxylicdianhydride (NTCDA), and 3,4,9,10‐perylene‐tetracarboxylicacid‐dianhydride (PTCDA), respectively. The crystals were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analyses, infrared spectra and cyclic voltammetry measurements. The results showed that the three crystals exhibited photochromic and electrochromic properties simultaneously due to the generation of free radicals. In addition, these crystals were also investigated as cathode materials for lithium‐ion battery. The resulting battery showed that the first discharge capacities of OC‐1, OC‐2, and OC‐3 could reach to 81.5 %, 93 %, and 87 % of their corresponding theoretical capacities.
Humidity‐Induced Defect‐Healing of Formamidinium‐Based Perovskite Films
Authors: Meng Ke , Wang Chunwu , Qiao Zhi , Zhai Yufeng , Yu Runze , Liu Ning , Gao Rong , Chen Bin , Pan Li , Xiao Mingyue , Chen Gang
Published: October 2021

Formamidinium (FA)‐based perovskite material holds great potential to deliver highly efficient commercial solar cells. However, the FA‐based perovskite films are commonly processed under a strictly controlled environment, which would eventually hinder their way to commercialization. Herein, a systematic study is conducted to investigate the sequential deposition of FA‐based perovskite films that are annealed under ambient conditions. Unexpectedly, the films prepared in low humidity condition possess less pinholes and defects and exhibit better device performances than those prepared in the moisture‐free condition. A series of in situ and ex situ investigations are conducted which reveal defects in perovskite films are continuously healed during the film annealing process under the humid condition. This extraordinary effect is attributed to the interaction between water molecules and perovskite. The current study should shed light on the ambient fabrication of FA‐based perovskite solar cells and foster their real‐world applications.
In‐Depth Mechanism Understanding for Potassium‐Ion Batteries by Electroanalytical Methods and Advanced In Situ Characterization Techniques
Authors: Liu Xi , Tong Yong , Wu Yuanji , Zheng Jiefeng , Sun Yingjuan , Li Hongyan
Published: October 2021

The advancement of potassium ion batteries (PIBs) stimulated by the dearth of lithium resources is accelerating. Major progresses on the electrochemical properties are based on the optimization of electrode materials, electrolytes, and other components. More significantly, the prerequisites for optimizing these key compositions are in‐depth and comprehensive exploration of electrochemical reaction processes, including the evolution of morphology and structure, phase transition, interface behaviors, and K+ movement, etc. As a result, the obtained K+ storage mechanism via analyzing aforementioned reaction processes sheds light on furthering practical application of PIBs. Typical electrochemical analysis methods are capable of obtaining physical and chemical characteristics. The advent of in situ electrochemical measurements enables dynamic observation and monitoring, thereby gaining extensive insights into the intricate mechanism of capacity degradation and interface kinetics. By coupling with these powerful electrochemical characterization techniques, inspiring works in PIBs will burgeon into wide realms of energy storage fields. In this review, some typical electroanalytical tests and in situ hyphenated measurements are described with the main concentration on how these techniques play a role in investigating the potassium storage mechanism for PIBs and achieving encouraging results.
Defect Engineering in Photocatalytic Methane Conversion
Authors: Ma Jun , Long Ran , Liu Dong , Low Jingxiang , Xiong Yujie
Published: October 2021

With the rapid increase in the discovered reserves of methane, tremendous efforts have been devoted to the conversion of methane into value‐added chemicals. However, current methane conversion technologies require extensive energy consumption (i.e., high temperature and pressure) due to the high stability of methane molecules. Recently, photocatalytic methane conversion has emerged as a potential answer for the above limitation because it can produce reactive intermediates for C—H bond activation by utilizing solar energy as the sole energy input and allow the methane conversion to proceed under mild conditions. Yet, its conversion efficiency remains relatively low mainly due to scarce active sites and rapid photogenerated charge carrier recombination. In this regard, defect engineering, which can create enormous active sites for methane activation and modulate the electronic structure of photocatalyst, has been extensively utilized for photocatalytic methane conversion. In this review, the fundamentals and advantages of various defects along with their preparation strategies are first summarized. Then, recent advances in defect‐mediated photocatalytic methane conversion are highlighted. Finally, the challenges and opportunities on defect‐mediated photocatalytic methane conversion are presented. This review is expected to provide a timely overview of the state‐of‐the‐art development of the defect‐mediated photocatalytic methane conversion toward its practical application.
Chitosan‐Based Smart Polymeric Hydrogels and Their Prospective Applications in Biomedicine
Authors: Rasool Atta , Rizwan Muhammad , Islam Atif , Abdullah Huda , Shafqat Syed Salman , Azeem Muhammad Khalid , Rasheed Tahir , Bilal Muhammad
Published: October 2021

With increasing scientific research, knowledge, and socioeconomic awareness, research, and industrial communities are now much more interested in biopolymers‐based composite materials with multifaceted functionalities. Biopolymers are easily obtainable, economical, non‐hazardous, and abundant. Several natural and synthetic polymers have been used to prepare hydrogels, microbeads, and microfibers for controlled drug release. Due to marvelous properties, chitosan has been widely explored for medical and pharmaceutical applications. In recent years, considerable attention has been paid to the chitosan‐based hydrogels for biomedical applications, especially for transplantation, and for improving interfacial interactions for the living tissues. Hydrogels can be synthesized by co‐polymerization, condensation, and cross‐linking. This review spotlights recent advances in physicochemical characteristics, modification strategies, and smart blended hydrogels for an array of biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. The whole discussion reveals that among all the biopolymers, chitosan is the finest carrier for biomedical applications.