bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect on the conformations of the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 due to mutation
Authors: Gupta Aayatti Mallick , Chakrabarti Jaydeb
Published: October 2022

The spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 mediates receptor binding and cell entry and is the key immunogenic target for virus neutralization and the present attention of many vaccine layouts. It exhibits significant conformational flexibility. We study the structural fluctuations of spike protein among the most common mutations that appeared in the variant of concerns (VOC). We report the thermodynamics of conformational changes in mutant spike protein with respect to the wild‐type from the distributions of the dihedral angles obtained from the equilibrium configurations generated via all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations. We find that the mutation causes the increase in distance between the N‐terminal domain and receptor binding domain, leading to an obtuse angle cosine θ distribution in the trimeric structure in spike protein. Thus, an increase in open state is conferred to the more infectious variants of SARS‐CoV‐2. The thermodynamically destabilized and disordered residues of receptor binding motif among the mutant variants of spike protein are proposed to serve as better binding sites for the host factor. We identify a short stretch of region connecting the N‐terminal domain and receptor binding domain forming a linker loop where many residues undergo stabilization in the open state compared to the closed one.
Carbon emissions trading and corporate green investment: The perspective of external pressure and internal incentive
Authors: Chen Jinyu , Geng Yuan , Liu Ran
Published: October 2022

The carbon emissions trading scheme (CETS) is an important institutional innovation that internalizes external costs caused by corporate carbon emissions and promotes firms to engage in green development. Based on a 2009–2019 sample of Chinese enterprises of heavily polluting industries listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) and Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE), this paper employs the difference‐in‐differences model to examine the effect of CETS on corporate green investment and discuss the moderating effects of external pressure and internal incentive. We find that the implementation of CETS significantly promotes corporate green investment, and this finding still holds after a series of robustness tests such as Propensity Score Matching‐Difference in Differences (PSM‐DID) method and alternative measure of green investment. The heterogeneity analysis indicates that the positive effect of CETS is stronger in large‐scale enterprises, state‐owned firms, and companies located in regions with strict environmental regulation. In addition, less local government intervention and more internal executive compensation incentive significantly enhance the positive impact of CETS on corporate green investment.
Mechano‐regulation of Wnt/β‐Catenin signaling to control paraxial versus lateral mesoderm lineage bifurcation
Authors: Strittmatter Tobias , Haellman Viktor , Argast Paul , Buchman Peter , Teixeira Ana Palma , Fussenegger Martin
Published: October 2022

Mechanical cues are involved in many biological processes, including embryonic development and patterning. For example, external mechanical forces (shear stress), lateral cell–cell interactions, and mechanical properties (stiffness and composition) of the extracellular matrix are thought to modulate Wnt signaling, which is a highly conserved pathway involved in regulating stem cell renewal, proliferation, and differentiation. In this work, we employed a customized higher‐throughput shear stress induction device for the controlled application of mechanical stress to study the effects of shear stress on the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) toward the three germ layers. We found that mechanical stress alters lineage commitment during ectoderm and mesoderm differentiation. We show that this effect correlates with reduced Wnt signaling, evaluated in terms of the promoter activity of an established TCF3‐responsive promoter. Whole transcriptome sequencing and pathway enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes between hiPSC‐derived mesoderm cells differentiated in the presence or absence of piston‐induced shear stress confirmed that Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is among the most affected developmental pathways. Furthermore, our results suggest that suitably programmed shear stress application could be used to selectively promote differentiation of hiPSCs to either lateral or paraxial mesoderm in commercially available media.
Synthesis and Theoretical Studies of Biologically Active Thieno Nucleus Incorporated Tri and Tetracyclic Nitrogen Containing Heterocyclics Scaffolds via Suzuki Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: Sain Shalu , Jaiswal Shivangi , Jain Sonika , Misra Namita , Srivastava Anamika , Jendra Ra , Kishore Dharma , Dwivedi Jaya , Wabaidur Saikh Mohammad , Islam Mohammad Ataul , Sharma Swapnil
Published: October 2022

A new series of thieno nucleus embellished trinuclear (19, 20) and tetranuclear (21–24) nitrogen heteroaryl have been synthesized by the Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction using bis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II) dichloride. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H‐NMR, 13CNMR and Mass spectral properties. In vitro antibacterial studies of the synthesized compound were conducted using broth microdilution assay employing Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative strains and half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined. The result showed that compound 20 possess best antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli with IC50 values of 60 μg mL−1 and 90 μg mL−1. Further to determine the mode of antibacterial action, compounds 20 and 21 were examined for in vitro bacterial dehydrogenase inhibitory assay. To understand the binding affinity of the synthesized compounds, the docking study was performed in the bacterial dehydrogenase enzyme by AutoDock Vina software and structure was confirmed by Discovery Studio Visualizer. All the synthesized compounds were docked in a good manner within the active sites of the bacterial dehydrogenase enzyme and exhibited good binding energies.
PdNi Nanoframework and Nanochain Catalysts with Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction Performance
Authors: Yang Yi , Soroka Inna L.
Published: October 2022

The development of Pt‐free nanocatalysts with enhanced electrocatalytic activity and durability is essential for the commercialization of fuel cells. Herein, we report a new class of active and durable PdNi nanocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in an alkaline medium. PdNi nanoframework (PdNi‐NF), consisting of interconnected ultrathin ridges was synthesized through a galvanic replacement reduction (GRR) strategy using Ni nanoparticles, obtained by radiolytic reduction, as seeds. PdNi nanochain (PdNi‐NC), composed of aggregated nanoparticles, was produced by one‐pot γ‐radiation induced reduction. It was found that the carbon‐supported PdNi‐NF catalysts exhibit higher ORR activity and enhanced durability compared to PdNi‐NC/C (PdNi‐NC on carbon), Pd‐NP/C (Pd nanoparticle on carbon), and commercial Pt/C catalysts. The superior activity of PdNi‐NF/C catalyst may originate from the nanoframework morphology that facilitates the O2 diffusion and the electronic effect induced by the sub‐surface PdNi alloy; the improved durability can be ascribed to the stable Pd‐enriched surface layer.
On the Origin of the Rate Enhancement by a R‐(+)‐1‐(1‐Naphthyl)‐Ethylamine‐Modified Pd(111) Model Catalyst for Methyl Pyruvate Hydrogenation
Authors: Bavisotto Robert , Roy Sree Pradipta , Tysoe Wilfred T.
Published: October 2022

Chiral modifiers of heterogeneous catalysts can function as activity promotors to minimize the influence of unmodified sites on the enantiomeric excess to obtain highly enantioselective catalysts. However, the origin on this effect is not well understood. It is investigated using a model catalyst of R‐(+)‐1‐(1‐naphthyl)‐ethylamine (R‐1‐NEA)/Pd(111) for the hydrogenation of methyl pyruvate (MP) to methyl lactate (ML). The activity of the model catalyst remains constant for multiple turnovers. No rate enhancement is found for R‐1‐NEA coverages below ∼0.5 monolayer (ML), but a significant increase is found at R‐1‐NEA coverages of ∼0.75 ML, with a rate approximately twice that of the unmodified catalyst. This is investigated using infrared spectroscopy to distinguish between MP monomers and dimers. MP titration experiments with hydrogen show a half‐order hydrogen pressure dependence, with the monomer reacting at twice the rate as the dimer. It is found that the dimer is the most abundant species on clean Pd(111), but the ratio of monomers to dimers increases as the R‐1‐NEA coverage increases due to surface crowding. The monomeric species is also found to be more stable on the crowded surface than on clean Pd(111); the chiral modifier also serves to stabilize the reactant. Finally, this model nicely explains the unusual 1‐NEA‐covergae dependence of the reactivity.
Synthesis and Catalysis of Anionic Amido Iron(II) Complexes
Authors: Chakraborty Uttam , Fedulin Andrey , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: October 2022

Low‐coordinate, open‐shell 3d metal complexes have attracted great attention due to their critical role in several catalytic transformations but have been notoriously difficult to prepare and study due to their high lability. Here, we report the synthesis of a heteroleptic tri‐coordinate amidoferrate that displays high catalytic activity in the regioselective hydrosilylation of alkenes.
Emotional anticipation of the school‐to‐work transition: A multigroup latent profile analysis
Authors: Parmentier Michaël , Pirsoul Thomas , Bouchat Pierre , Nils Frédéric
Published: October 2022

This study extends the investigation of future‐oriented emotions by investigating students’ emotional anticipation profiles at the prospect of the school‐to‐work transition. Among 2882 students, latent profile analysis revealed the emergence of four qualitative and quantitative distinct profiles. We also examined the profile similarity across gender, educational type, and the remaining time before the transition. Men and women exhibited both qualitative (i.e., profile shape and prevalence) and quantitative (i.e., levels of profile indicators) differences. However, we found no quantitative differences with regard to the educational type and the remaining time before the transition. To the best of our knowledge, this research is the first to document the complex interaction between anticipatory and anticipated emotions and the suitability of a person‐centered approach for investigating emotional experience, especially among men and women. It provides essential practical information for developing a preventive strategy regarding the emotional anticipation of the school‐to‐work transition.
Synthesis of a Highly Crystalline Amide‐Linked Covalent Organic Framework
Authors: Li Yuyao , Zhou Zhipeng , Hong Yuexian , Dong Xin , Yang Yonghang , Liang Zihao , Sun Junliang , Chen Xudong , Liu Wei , Zheng Zhikun
Published: October 2022

Comprehensive Summary

The dilemma for the synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is crystallinity and stability. Herein, we present the synthesis of a single‐crystalline amide‐linked COF, and demonstrate its excellent chemical as well as thermal stabilities. This study will inspire the synthesis of a wide spectrum of highly crystalline and stable COFs, promote their structure‐property investigations and boost their applications in selective gas adsorption, storage and separation.
Cell‐surface contacts determine volume and mechanical properties of human embryonic kidney 293 T cells
Authors: Dabbiru Venkata A. S. , Manu Emmanuel , Biedenweg Doreen , Nestler Peter , Pires Ricardo H. , Otto Oliver
Published: October 2022

Alterations in the organization of the cytoskeleton precede the escape of adherent cells from the framework of cell–cell and cell‐matrix interactions into suspension. With cytoskeletal dynamics being linked to cell mechanical properties, many studies elucidated this relationship under either native adherent or suspended conditions. In contrast, tethered cells that mimic the transition between both states have not been the focus of recent research. Using human embryonic kidney 293 T cells we investigated all three conditions in the light of alterations in cellular shape, volume, as well as mechanical properties and relate these findings to the level, structure, and intracellular localization of filamentous actin (F‐actin). For cells adhered to a substrate, our data shows that seeding density affects cell size but does not alter their elastic properties. Removing surface contacts leads to cell stiffening that is accompanied by changes in cell shape, and a reduction in cellular volume but no alterations in F‐actin density. Instead, we observe changes in the organization of F‐actin indicated by the appearance of blebs in the semi‐adherent state. In summary, our work reveals an interplay between molecular and mechanical alterations when cells detach from a surface that is mainly dominated by cell morphology.
Breast lesion identification and categorization using mammography screening based on combined convolutional recursive neural network framework with parameters optimized using multi‐objective seagull optimization algorithm
Authors: Sakthivel N. K. , Subasree S. , Alias Priya M Pachhaiammal , Tyagi Amit Kumar
Published: October 2022

In recent years, a number of learning methods have been adopted for classifying the mammogram images, which helps the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. The breast lesion identification and categorization using mammography screening based on combined convolutional neural network and recursive neural network (CRNN) framework with parameters optimized using multi‐objective seagull optimization algorithm (BLIC‐CRNN‐MOSOA) is proposed in this article. Initially, the unnecessary noise components are taken away from the mammogram images and the quality of the images are enhanced based on altered phase preserving dynamic range compression filtering approach. Then, the deep CRNN model with weight parameters optimized using multi‐objective seagull optimization algorithm is adopted for classifying the mammogram images into three categories: (i) normal, (ii) benign, and (iii) malignant masses. The proposed BLIC‐CRNN‐MOSOA approach is executed in MATLAB platform, and its performance is compared with other deep learning classification approaches. Then the simulation performance of the proposed BLIC‐CRNN‐MOSOA method attains higher accuracy 99.67%, 98.38%, and 97.45%, higher sensitivity 98.33%, 89.34%, and 88.96%, higher specificity 93.15%, 91.25%, and 92.88% compared with existing methods, like BLIC‐FrCN, BLIC‐ICS‐ELM, and BLIC‐DCNN‐BO. By this, the proposed method achieves higher classification accuracy with less misclassified error. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed method is more efficient than the other classification methods.
Salinity responses in 24 guar genotypes are linked to multigenic regulation explaining the complexity of tolerance mechanisms in planta
Authors: Sandhu Devinder , Pallete Andrew , William Maria , Ferreira Jorge F. S. , Kaundal Amita , Grover Kulbhushan K.
Published: October 2022

Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) is an economically important, drought‐tolerant legume crop affected by moderate to high salinity. Guar has various industrial applications, including gum extracted from seeds that is widely used in the oil and natural gas industries. In this investigation, we evaluated the salinity tolerance of different guar genotypes and their relation to genetic mechanisms regulating guar responses to salinity stress. We screened 24 guar genotypes in a greenhouse lysimeter system under control (electrical conductivity (EC) = 1.46 dS m−1) and high salinity (EC = 13.65 dS m−1) treatments. Both length and biomass of shoots were significantly affected by salinity compared to roots, indicating higher shoot than root sensitivity to salinity. Twenty‐four genotypes were classified based on salt tolerance index for each trait. Tissue ion analysis revealed that roots accumulated over 10‐fold higher Na than leaves, demonstrating that guar effectively regulated the root‐to‐shoot movement of Na+. However, higher Cl concentrations in leaves than roots indicated less regulatory control of Cl− movement. Based on the morphological traits and tissue ion analysis, six genotypes (PI 164486, PI 253186, PI 26152, PI 158125, PI 179926, and PI 263698) with different responses to salinity were selected for gene expression analysis. Expression patterns of different genes showed that a complex network of component traits, including Na+ exclusion, Cl− exclusion, and tissue tolerance, regulate salinity tolerance in guar. Hence, the genetic information about different component traits will benefit guar breeders in developing new varieties that are more tolerant to salinity than current ones.
Flow cytometry to detect bone marrow involvement by follicular lymphoma
Authors: Aren Mercè , Marce Silvia , Jurado Rebeca , Tapia Gustavo , Puigdefabregues Lluís , Raya Minerva , Cortes Montserrat , Garcia‐Caro Montse , Junca Jordi , Mozas Pablo , Viñets Esther , Cabezon Marta , Plensa Esther , Miljkovic Milos , Sancho Juan‐Manuel , Navarro José‐Tomas , Zamora Lurdes , Sorigue Marc
Published: October 2022

Background

High‐quality data on bone marrow involvement (BMI) assessed by flow cytometry (FC) in follicular lymphoma (FL) is lacking.

Aims

We set up a prospective protocol with a 10‐color tube and acquisition of 500.000 leukocytes on a Nav flow cytometer for evaluation of BMI in FL by FC.

Materials and methods

FC was compared with a combination of histopathology and IGH gene rearrangement, which were considered the gold standard. We also compared BMI by FC with PET.

Results

Fifty‐two patients were included (median 67 years, 54% female). BMI by FC was seen in 35 (67%), with a median involvement of 1.2% (interquartile range: 0.3%–7%) of leukocytes. Comparison with the gold standard revealed two false negatives and two false positives (potentially true involvement undetected by the gold standard). BMI by PET was seen in 14/46 (30%). Immunophenotype of FL in the bone marrow was highly heterogeneous. The most common phenotypic abnormality was dim expression of CD19 (>0.5 log loss in 30% of patients). CD10 was negative in 13 (37%) and incompletely positive (overlap with the negative population) in a further 8 (28%) while entirely positive only in 14 (48%). Other abnormalities (loss of CD20, gain or loss of CD79b, expression of CD43, and substantial loss of CD45) were rare. Computational analysis by means of FlowSOM confirmed the heterogeneous phenotype, with FL from different patients clustering in unrelated metaclusters.

Conclusion

BMI by FL was frequent and immunophenotype was heterogeneous. However, this protocol enabled detection of FL in bone marrow in the vast majority of patients with bone marrow involvement by the gold standard.
LoCaL: Link‐optimized cone‐assisted location routing in flying ad hoc networks
Authors: Kumar Sudesh , Raw Ram Shringar , Bansal Abhishek
Published: October 2022

Recently, flying ad hoc networks (FANETs) has become a core research area in wireless networks that involves multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is widely used in modern warfare for surveillance, monitoring and reconnaissance. The routing in FANETs poses a more significant challenge due to limited energy and frequent link disconnection between the UAVs. Consequently, an effective route is always required to ensure data transmission between UAVs. Therefore, this research proposes a link‐optimized cone‐assisted location (LoCaL) routing protocol for FANETs. The main goal of the proposed LoCaL is to enhance the link duration between the UAVs in which a source selects a forwarding UAV from a given set of neighbours by estimating the residual energy, link duration time and safety degree parameters. Proposed LoCaL provides better stability and less frequent route breaks between source and destination. Further, the mathematical formulation of the proposed approach is presented through the utility function to enhance the route stability by selecting all those relay UAVs in the cone‐shaped request zone, which reduces the routing overhead in discovering the route. Finally, the performance of the LoCaL has been presented through key indicators such as energy consumption, routing overhead, message delivery ratio, network lifetime and delay compared to the existing approaches.
Volumetric development of hippocampal subfields and hippocampal white matter connectivity: Relationship with episodic memory
Authors: Dick Anthony Steven , Ralph Yvonne , Farrant Kristafor , Reeb‐Sutherland Bethany , Pruden Shannon , Mattfeld Aaron T.
Published: October 2022

The hippocampus is a complex structure composed of distinct subfields. It has been central to understanding neural foundations of episodic memory. In the current cross‐sectional study, using a large sample of 830, 3‐ to 21‐year‐olds from a unique, publicly available dataset we examined the following questions: (1) Is there elevated grey matter volume of the hippocampus and subfields in late compared to early development? (2) How does hippocampal volume compare with the rest of the cerebral cortex at different developmental stages? and (3) What is the relation between hippocampal volume and connectivity with episodic memory performance? We found hippocampal subfield volumes exhibited a nonlinear relation with age and showed a lag in volumetric change with age when compared to adjacent cortical regions (e.g., entorhinal cortex). We also observed a significant reduction in cortical volume across older cohorts, while hippocampal volume showed the opposite pattern. In addition to age‐related differences in gray matter volume, dentate gyrus/cornu ammonis 3 volume was significantly related to episodic memory. We did not, however, find any associations with episodic memory performance and connectivity through the uncinate fasciculus, fornix, or cingulum. The results are discussed in the context of current research and theories of hippocampal development and its relation to episodic memory.
Enhanced condensation heat transfer by water/ethanol binary liquids on polydimethylsiloxane brushes
Authors: Li Shuai , Diaz Diego , Kappl Michael , Butt Hans‐Jürgen , Liu Jie , Hou Youmin
Published: October 2022

Enhancing heat transfer efficiency by liquid condensation plays a critical role in recovering and utilizing low‐grade heat. However, overall heat transfer efficiency is commonly limited by the inefficient vapor–liquid phase transition flux and enthalpy during liquid condensation. Here, we report that by introducing small amount of water into the phase‐change process of ethanol on a liquid‐like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) brush surface, the heat transfer coefficient is significantly enhanced, in particular, by more than one order of magnitude compared to the pure ethanol condensation. Such enhanced thermal performance is primarily due to the elaborate balance between promoting condensation, that is, nucleation and growth, and increasing latent heat by regulating components of water and ethanol, as well as the rapid droplet removal by condensing on the PDMS brushes. Note that the more stabilized dropwise condensation of the binary liquids, retained by accelerating the droplet coalescence velocity, beyond filmwise condensation ensures its significant effectivity under high heat flux.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders: A map of the systematic review evidence base
Authors: Kaidesoja Milla , Cooper Zafra , Fordham Beth
Published: October 2022

Objective

To map and examine the systematic review evidence base regarding the effects of cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) for eating disorders (EDs), especially against active interventions.

Method

This systematic review is an extension of an overview of CBT for all health conditions (CBT‐O). We identified ED‐related systematic reviews from the CBT‐O database and performed updated searches of EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PsychInfo in April 2021 and September 2022.

Results

The 44 systematic reviews included (21 meta‐analyses) were of varying quality. They focused on “high intensity” CBT, delivered face‐to‐face by qualified clinicians, in BN, BED and mixed, not specifically low‐weight samples. ED‐specific outcomes were studied most, with little consensus on their operationalization. The, often insufficient, reporting of sample characteristics did not allow assessment of the generalizability of findings. The meta‐analytic syntheses show that high intensity one‐to‐one CBT produces better short‐term effects than a mix of active controls especially on ED‐specific measures for BED, BN, and transdiagnostic samples. There is little evidence favoring group CBT or low intensity CBT against other active interventions.

Discussion

While this study found evidence consistent with current ED treatment recommendations, it highlighted notable gaps that need to be addressed. There were insufficient data to allow generalizations regarding sex and gender, age, culture and comorbidity and to support CBT in AN samples. The evidence for group CBT and low intensity CBT against active controls is limited, as it is for the longer‐term effects of CBT. Our findings identify areas for future innovation and research within CBT.

Public Significance

This study provides a comprehensive mapping and quality assessment of the current large systematic review research base regarding the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for eating disorders (EDs), with a focus on comparisons to other active interventions. By transcending the more limited scope of individual systematic reviews, this overview highlights the gaps in the current evidence base, and thus provides guidance for future research and clinical innovation.
Bats reduce insect density and defoliation in temperate forests: An exclusion experiment
Authors: Beilke Elizabeth A. , O'Keefe Joy M.
Published: October 2022

Bats suppress insect populations in agricultural ecosystems, yet the question of whether bats initiate trophic cascades in forests is mainly unexplored. We used a field experiment to test the hypothesis that insectivorous bats reduce defoliation through the top‐down suppression of forest‐defoliating insects. We excluded bats from 20 large, subcanopy forest plots (opened daily to allow birds access), each paired with an experimental control plot, during three summers between 2018 and 2020 in the central hardwood region of the United States. We monitored leaf area changes and insect density for nine to 10 oak or hickory seedlings per plot. Insect density was three times greater on seedlings in bat‐excluded versus control plots. Additionally, seedling defoliation was five times greater with bats excluded, and bats' impact on defoliation was three times greater for oaks than for hickories. We show that insectivorous bats drive top‐down trophic cascades, play an integral role in forest ecosystems, and may ultimately influence forest health, structure, and composition. This work demonstrates insectivorous bats' ecological and economic value and the importance of conserving this highly imperiled group of predators.
Sustainable Lignin‐Derived Carbon as Capacity‐Kinetics Matched Cathode and Anode towards 4.5 V High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Liu Fangyan , Lu Pengfei , Zhang Ying , Su Feng , Zhang Liangzhu , Zheng Shuanghao , Zhang Xiong , Su Fangyuan , Ma Yanwei , Wu Zhongshuai
Published: October 2022

The Li‐ion capacitors (LICs) develop rapidly due to their double‐high features of high‐energy density and high‐power density. However, the relative low capacity of cathode and sluggish kinetics of anode seriously impede the development of LICs. Herein, the precisely pore‐engineered and heteroatom‐tailored defective hierarchical porous carbons (DHPCs) as large‐capacity cathode and high‐rate anode to construct high‐performance dual‐carbon LICs have been developed. The DHPCs are prepared based on triple‐activation mechanisms by direct pyrolysis of sustainable lignin with urea to generate the interconnected hierarchical porous structure and plentiful heteroatom‐induced defects. Benefiting from these advanced merits, DHPCs show the well‐matched high capacity and fast kinetics of both cathode and anode, exhibiting large capacities, superior rate capability and long‐term lifespan. Both experimental and computational results demonstrate the strong synergistic effect of pore and dopants for Li storage. Consequently, the assembled dual‐carbon LIC exhibits high voltage of 4.5 V, high‐energy density of 208 Wh kg−1, ultrahigh power density of 53.4 kW kg−1 and almost zero‐decrement cycling lifetime. Impressively, the full device with high mass loading of 9.4 mg cm−2 on cathode still outputs high‐energy density of 187 Wh kg−1, demonstrative of their potential as electrode materials for high‐performance electrochemical devices.
Guideline for the extraction, isolation, purification, and structural characterization of polysaccharides from natural resources
Authors: Huang Xiaojun , Ai Chao , Yao Haoyingye , Zhao Chengang , Xiang Chunhong , Hong Tao , Xiao Jianbo
Published: October 2022

Polysaccharide is widely distributed in natural resources, and currently attracts scientists' attention for their various bio‐functions including immunomodulatory activity, hypoglycemic activity, hypolipidemic activity, antitumor activity, promoting effects on gastrointestinal function, and so on. The purity and structure characteristics of different polysaccharides greatly restrict the in‐depth study of their bioactivity mechanism. Therefore, this guideline will display the extraction, isolation, purification, and structural characterization of polysaccharides from natural resources. The extraction methods of acid‐soluble polysaccharides, water‐soluble polysaccharides, and alkaline soluble polysaccharides are included. Common purification methods like membrane filtration, alcohol precipitation, and column chromatographic separation are explained in detail. A comprehensive procedure for polysaccharide structural characterization is given from molecular weight and monosaccharide composition study to Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. Examples are added where necessary to help you better understand this guideline.
Targeting B cells and plasma cells in autoimmune diseases: From established treatments to novel therapeutic approaches
Authors: Merino‐Vico Ana , Frazzei Giulia , van Hamburg Jan Piet , Tas Sander W.
Published: October 2022

Autoimmune diseases are characterized by the recognition of self‐antigens by the immune system, which leads to inflammation and tissue damage. B cells are directly and indirectly involved in the pathophysiology of autoimmunity, both via antigen‐presentation to T cells and production of proinflammatory cytokines and/or autoantibodies. Consequently, B lineage cells have been identified as therapeutic targets in autoimmune diseases. B cell depleting strategies have proven beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), ANCA‐associated vasculitis (AAV), multiple sclerosis (MS), and a wide range of other immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). However, not all patients respond to treatment or may not reach (drug‐free) remission. Moreover, B cell depleting therapies do not always target all B cell subsets, such as short‐lived and long‐lived plasma cells. These cells play an active role in autoimmunity and in certain diseases their depletion would be beneficial to achieve disease remission. In the current review article, we provide an overview of novel strategies to target B lineage cells in autoimmune diseases, with the focus on rheumatic diseases. Both advanced therapies that have recently become available and more experimental treatments that may reach the clinic in the near future are discussed.
Small‐fibre damage is associated with distinct sensory phenotypes in patients with fibromyalgia and small‐fibre neuropathy
Authors: Leone Caterina , Galosi Eleonora , Esposito Nicoletta , Falco Pietro , Fasolino Alessandra , Di Pietro Giuseppe , Di Stefano Giulia , Camerota Filippo , Vollert Jan , Truini Andrea
Published: October 2022

Background

In this clinical and psychophysical study, we aimed to verify whether patients with fibromyalgia with and without small‐fibre pathology and patients with pure small‐fibre neuropathy share common sensory phenotypes.

Methods

Using an algorithm based on quantitative sensory testing variables, we grouped 64 consecutive patients with fibromyalgia (20 with small‐fibre pathology, 44 without) and 30 patients with pure small‐fibre neuropathy into different sensory phenotypes: sensory loss, thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical hyperalgesia and healthy phenotypes.

Results

We found that the frequency of the different sensory phenotypes differed markedly between patients with fibromyalgia and patients with small‐fibre neuropathy. In patients with fibromyalgia, with and without small‐fibre pathology, healthy and hyperalgesia phenotypes (both thermal and mechanical) were similarly represented, whilst sensory loss and mechanical hyperalgesia phenotypes were the most frequent phenotypes in patients with small‐fibre neuropathy.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that small‐fibre damage is associated with distinct sensory phenotypes in patients with fibromyalgia and in patients with small‐fibre neuropathy. The lack of phenotype differences between patients with fibromyalgia with and without small‐fibre pathology and the relatively high frequency of the healthy phenotype in these patients highlight a complex relationship between small‐fibre pathology and pain in patients with fibromyalgia.
In vitro and in vivo assessments of the genotoxic potential of 3‐chloroallyl alcohol
Authors: Redmond Aisling , Zhang Fagen , Cheng WanYun , Gollapudi B. Bhaskar
Published: October 2022

3‐Chloroallyl alcohol (3‐CAA) can be found in the environment following the application of plant protection products. 3‐CAA is formed in groundwater following the injection of 1,3‐dichloropropene, a fumigant used to control nematodes. 3‐CAA is also formed, in leafy crops, as a glycoside conjugate following application of the herbicide, clethodim. Human exposure may occur from groundwater used as drinking water or through dietary consumption. To characterize 3‐CAA's potential to cause genotoxicity in mammals, in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted. 3‐CAA was negative in an Ames test and positive in a mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay. 3‐CAA was negative in an acute in vivo CD‐1 mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay when administered up to a dose level of 125 mg/kg/day for two consecutive days. In a combined gene mutation assay and erythrocyte micronucleus assay, using transgenic Big Blue® Fischer 344 rats, 3‐CAA was administered via drinking water at targeted dose levels of 0, 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg/day for 29 days. Peripheral blood samples, collected at the end of treatment, were analyzed for micronucleus induction in reticulocytes using flow cytometry. Liver and bone marrow samples, collected 2 days after the termination of the treatment, were analyzed for the induction of mutations at thecIIlocus. 3‐CAA did not induce an increase in mutant frequency or micronuclei under the experimental conditions. In conclusion, the mutagenic response observed in the in vitro mouse lymphoma assay is not confirmed in the whole animal. 3‐CAA is not considered to pose a mutagenic risk.
Overlooked Invaders? Ecological Impacts of Non-Game, Native Transplant Fishes in the United States
Authors: Hartman Jordan H , Larson Eric R
Published: October 2022

Nonnative fishes can cause ecological impacts as invasive species, but identifying which nonnative species have harmful impacts is critical to prioritizing management and policy responses. Here, we characterized the state of knowledge on the impacts of a possibly overlooked group of invasive species in the United States: non-game native transplant (NGNT) fishes. We propose that NGNT fishes may be understudied relative to nonnative game fish and exotic species introduced from outside of the country. Only 14% of 220 freshwater NGNT fishes in the United States have been studied for possible negative impacts. We found that researchers have neglected to study impacts of many widespread NGNT species, and some regions with high NGNT species richness have had no studies of the impacts of any NGNT species. Genetic and ecosystem impacts of NGNT fishes have been particularly neglected relative to population and community impacts. We recommend that researchers and funding entities direct their attention to prospective impacts of the most widespread NGNT species in the least studied U.S. river basins to identify which of these fishes require prevention and management as invasive species.
Dissatisfaction of people with type 2 diabetes with the care received at a diabetes clinic in Ningbo, China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yu Jingjia , Li Jialin , Xu Miao , Li Li , Chattopadhyay Kaushik
Published: October 2022

Aim

The study aimed to assess the dissatisfaction of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with the care that they received at a diabetes outpatient clinic in Ningbo, China and to determine the associated factors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 406 adults with T2DM in 2020–2021. Those who were treated at the diabetes outpatient clinic for at least six consecutive months before the survey date were eligible. The Short Assessment of Patient Satisfaction scale was used to assess participants' dissatisfaction with the care that they received.

Results

Of the participants, 25.1% were not satisfied with the care that they received at the diabetes outpatient clinic in Ningbo. The odds of dissatisfaction were higher in physically active people compared to those who were not (odds ratio [OR]: 3.41; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.56–7.45) and those with >1–5 years of T2DM compared to ≤1 year (OR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.05–4.53).

Conclusion

A quarter of people with T2DM were dissatisfied with the care that they received at the diabetes outpatient clinic in Ningbo, China, and the factors associated with dissatisfaction were identified.
Deciding on fitness‐for‐purpose‐of models and of natural flood management
Authors: Beven Keith , Page Trevor , Hankin Barry , Smith Paul , Kretzschmar Ann , Mindham David , Chappell Nick
Published: October 2022

This article has taken a distributed modelling approach to examine the potential for hillslope storage bunds as a natural flood management (NFM) strategy to mitigate the effects of downstream flooding if deployed extensively in the 209 km2 River Kent catchment in Cumbria (UK). To do so, a novel invalidation approach has been taken to calibrate an ensemble of Dynamic Topmodel parameter sets considered as fit‐for‐purpose for the prediction of flood peaks. Only 67 realizations out of 100 000 survived evaluation at the peaks of ranked flood hydrographs including the notable 2005, 2009 and 2015 events, together with a process constraint on the minimum area contributing saturation overland flow in the largest storm of record. These 67 events were used as the baseline (before intervention results) to simulate the effect of introducing 1549 storage bunds to temporarily retain saturation overland flows in optimal hillslope locations. The analysis is extended to simulating the reduction of inundation and damage estimates by running the ensemble of Dyanmic Topmodel simulations as inputs to the distributed hydraulic model JFlow for the 2015 Storm Desmond event. Even given such a large number of interventions the effects on the flood peaks and damages in this case were relatively small. The results of the study emphasize the large amounts of storage required in any NFM scheme, with individual features large enough that they are not too quickly overwhelmed, in order to have a significant impact on flood hydrographs and consequent flood damages.
Dynamic connectedness between China's commodity markets and China's sectoral stock markets: A multidimensional analysis
Authors: Shao Liuguo , Zhang Hua , Chang Senfeng , Wang Ziyang
Published: October 2022

Considering the heterogeneity of China's different sectoral stock markets, this paper adopts the time‐domain spillover index model, extreme spillover index model, and frequency‐domain spillover model to analyse the spillover effects of China's commodity and sectoral stock markets under normal conditions, extreme conditions, and frequency‐domain conditions. The empirical results highlight three interesting and noteworthy aspects for investors and regulators: first, the spillover behaviours of China's sectoral stock markets reveal significant heterogeneity. The Energy, Materials, Industries, Optional, Consumption, Information, and PublicUtilities markets are net transmitters, while the Pharmaceutical, Finance, and Telecom ones are net receivers. Second, the spillover effects between China's commodity and sectoral stock markets are enhanced under extreme conditions and are approximately 18.49% higher than those under normal conditions, and there is asymmetry between left‐tail and right‐tail spillovers, which was observed during China's stock market crash. Finally, the spillover effect between China's commodity and sectoral stock markets is dominated by short‐term spillovers, and there is a positive correlation between short‐term and long‐term spillovers.
Intersectional community‐centered climate change curriculum is needed in health professional education
Authors: Barrere‐Cain Rio
Published: October 2022

Synopsis

Through an intersectional, action‐oriented, community‐centered curriculum, health professional students can, and should, be trained as advocates to address the health effects of climate change.
Sustained release of alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA racemase (AMACR) antibody‐conjugated and free doxorubicin from silica nanoparticles for prostate cancer cell growth inhibition
Authors: Aina Toyin , Salifu Ali A. , Kizhakkepura Sonu , Danyuo Yiporo , Obayemi John D. , Oparah Josephine C. , Ezenwafor Theresa C. , Onwudiwe Killian C. , Ani Chukwuemeka J. , Biswas Suchi S. , Onyekanne Chinyerem , Odusanya Olushola S. , Madukwe Jonathan , Soboyejo Winston O.
Published: October 2022

This article presents silica nanoparticles for the sustained release of AMACR antibody‐conjugated and free doxorubicin (DOX) for the inhibition of prostate cancer cell growth. Inorganic MCM‐41 silica nanoparticles were synthesized, functionalized with phenylboronic acid groups (MCM‐B), and capped with dextran (MCM‐B‐D). The nanoparticles were then characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, zeta potential analysis, nitrogen sorption, X‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis, before exploring their potential for drug loading and controlled drug release. This was done using a model prostate cancer drug, DOX, and a targeted prostate cancer drug, α‐Methyl Acyl‐CoA racemase (AMACR) antibody‐conjugated DOX, which attaches specifically to AMACR proteins that are overexpressed on the surfaces of prostate cancer cells. The kinetics of sustained drug release over 30 days was then studied using zeroth order, first order, second order, Higuchi, and the Korsmeyer–Peppas models, while the thermodynamics of drug release was elucidated by determining the entropy and enthalpy changes. The flux of the released DOX was also simulated using the COMSOL Multiphysics software package. Generally, the AMACR antibody‐conjugated DOX drug‐loaded nanoparticles were more effective than the free DOX drug‐loaded formulations in inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer cells in vitro over a 96 h period. The implications of the results are then discussed for the development of drug‐eluting structures for the localized and targeted treatment of prostate cancer.
Seed morphoanatomy of the genus PassifloraL. (Passifloraceae) by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy
Authors: de Jesus Silva Jailton , Souza Fernanda Vidigal Duarte , Junghans Tatiana Góes , da Silva Ledo Carlos Alberto , Rossi Mônica Lanzoni , de Souza Everton Hilo
Published: October 2022

Morphoanatomical analysis of seeds contributes to knowledge of the development of seedlings and identification of species, as well as supporting conservation studies. The conservation of the species belonging to the Passiflora genus is crucial due to of the threats to the genetic resources of these species. Thus, the objective of this study was to morphoanatomically characterize Passiflora seeds, verify possible injuries to the tissues after cryopreservation and thus contribute to the conservation strategies of the species of this genus. Initially, seeds of Passiflora coccinea, P. edulis, P. gibertii, P. maliformis, P. morifolia, P. setacea, P. suberosa, and P. tenuifila collected from the Passion Fruit Active Germplasm Bank of the Embrapa Cassava and Fruits research unit (Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura) were analyzed. Then, their length, width and thickness, shape of the base and tip, and ornamentations present on the body and edge of the seeds were evaluated. The seeds of the species were placed in cryotubes and immersed in liquid nitrogen to assess possible cryoinjuries. The tegument and tissues of the seeds were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The seeds had varied biometric data, with average values of 4.63 mm for length, 3.28 mm for width, and 1.51 mm for thickness. Six ornamentation types were observed: reticulate for the species P. coccinea; finely reticulate for P. edulis; foveolate reticulate for P. gibertii and P. setacea; alveolate reticulate for P. maliformis and P. tenuifila; coarsely reticulate for P. morifolia; and falsifoveolate reticulate for P. suberosa. Some seeds suffered tegument cracks due to the freezing in liquid nitrogen, but without physiological damages to the embryo and endosperm. The cryopreservation of the seeds in the presence of the tegument significantly reduced the cryoinjuries caused to the embryo. Cryopreservation can be promising for long‐term conservation of passion fruit seeds.