bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoprecipitation Strategies to Isolate RIPK1/RIPK3 Complexes in Mouse Macrophages
Authors: Siokas Ioannis , Zhang Dingqiang , Poltorak Alexander , Muendlein Hayley , Degterev Alexei
Published: June 2021

A large protein complex, containing RIPK1, RIPK3, and caspase‐8 and known as Complex II, has emerged as one of the key mediators of cell death downstream from a range of innate immune triggers. This regulatory mechanism plays a prominent role in macrophages, where Complex II has been linked to apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis as well as the enhancement of inflammatory gene expression. Although core components of this complex are fairly well understood, more subtle proteomic changes that determine the direction of a response once the complex is assembled remain much less clear. In addition, Complex II components undergo a wealth of post‐translational changes that modify the functions of the complex components. This necessitates development of robust and efficient methods of isolating Complex II for further interrogation of its composition and the post‐translational modifications of its components. This article describes several methods that we have developed for Complex II isolation, which can be used to obtain complementary information about this signaling mechanism. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation of Complex II in necroptotic and pyroptotic macrophages using FADD immunoprecipitation

Basic Protocol 2: Isolation of the complexes formed by the conditionally expressed 3XFLAG‐RIPK1 protein

Alternate Protocol: Alternative methods of immunoprecipitation of RIPK1 and other Complex‐II‐related factors

Support Protocol: Generation of stable macrophage cell lines using lentiviral expression

Basic Protocol 3: Use of proximity labeling to identify necrosome components in the detergent‐insoluble fraction of the cell lysates
Effects of nitrogen deep placement coupled with straw incorporation on grain quality and root traits from paddy fields
Authors: Li Lin , Li Qiankun , Lin Zhihuan , Zhang Zheng , Tian Hua , Ashraf Umair , Alhaj Hamoud Yousef , Duan Meiyang , Tang Xiangru , Pan Shenggang
Published: June 2021

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of deep application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer and straw incorporation on grain yield and quality, nutrient accumulation, and root morphological and physiological traits in both rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars during 2019 and 2020. The experimental treatments were comprised of deep N fertilization with (DF+S) and without straw incorporation (DF) as well as broadcasting fertilization with (BF+S) and without straw return (BF). No fertilizer and no straw return treatment were taken as control. Results depicted that the DF+S and DF treatment significantly increased the grain yield by 46.4 and 42.2%, respectively, compared with BF. The DF+S also significantly increased total N accumulation by 37.9 and 44.0%, total phosphorus accumulation by 39.3 and 41.7%, total potassium accumulation by 63.6 and 73.3% for the cultivars Yuxiangyouzahn (YXYZ) and Wufengyou615 at maturity, respectively, compared with BF. Moreover, nutrient accumulation and grain yield of BF+S were slightly higher than BF. Straw incorporation resulted in better total root volume and total root length than no straw incorporation treatments in YXYZ, regardless of fertilizer application method. Root morphology traits are positively associated with other positive traits such as yield or nutrient uptake. The DF+S treatment also significantly increased the milled rice rate and remarkably reduced the chalkiness degree for both rice cultivars, compared to BF treatment. Overall, DF+S is recognized as the optimal method to improve rice productivity and quality with better nutrient acquisition.
Porphyrin Acceptors with Two Perylene Diimide Dimers for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Pan Xiaojie , Wu Jifa , Xiao Liangang , Yap Boonkar , Xia Ruidong , Peng Xiaobin
Published: June 2021

Three small‐molecule acceptors (Por‐PDI, TEHPor‐PDI, and BBOPor‐PDI) with different side chains were synthesized by using a porphyrin core as the electron‐donating unit and connecting electron‐withdrawing perylene diimide dimers via acetylene bridges. The bulk heterojunction organic solar cells based on the three acceptors and a polymer donor provided power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 3.68–5.21 % when the active layers were fabricated with pyridine additives. Though the synthesis of Por‐PDI is easier with fewer reaction steps and higher yields, the devices based on Por‐PDI showed the best performance with a PCE of 5.21 %. The more ordered intermolecular packing due to the reduced steric hindrance at the porphyrin core of Por‐PDI could contribute to the more balanced hole/electron mobilities, higher maximum charge generation rate, and less bimolecular recombination in Por‐PDI devices, which are beneficial for the higher PCE.
Circularly polarized dielectric resonator‐based multiple input multiple output antenna with pattern and polarization diversity for vehicular applications
Authors: Srivastava Komal , Dwivedi Ajay Kumar , Sharma Anand
Published: June 2021

In this article, a modified layout of cylindrical dielectric material‐based, resonator‐type multiple input multiple output antenna (MIMO) is presented. The beam tilting feature is achieved by using a conducting plate placed in the mid of two antenna elements. Dual frequency‐band operation, that is, 2.4–4.02 and 4.78–6.21 GHz is obtained by sourcing the ring DRA electromagnetically with asymmetric S‐shaped aperture via microstrip line. Dual CP waves are supported by the designed antenna within the operating frequency band, that is, 2.84–2.95 and 5.63–5.66 GHz. The two ports are placed in parallel. Some salient features of the designed antenna are (i) pattern diversity (θ = ±30° in XZ plane) is obtained between two parallel placed ports by applying conducting plate; (ii) polarization diversity is obtained by simply taking a mirror image of the proposed aperture. The most favorable value of diversity parameters of the suggested DR‐based MIMO antenna makes it satisfactory for smart transport and vehicular communication applications in the sub‐6‐GHz range.
SERDP: Signature‐based and energy‐efficient relay discovery protocol for Internet of Things in cellular networks
Authors: Çavdar Tuğrul , Kakız Muhammet Talha , Günay Faruk Baturalp , Ebrahimpour Nader
Published: June 2021

With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT), a large number of devices are expected to connect to the Internet over different networks due to various demands and characteristics of IoT devices (IoTDs). One of the networks that will connect IoTDs to the Internet is cellular networks. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) proposes a connectivity model for cellular networks in which IoTDs connect to the network via relay devices. In this model, discovering the relay devices is a challenging task due to energy budget constraints, mobility of devices, and collision of discovery messages. Since IoTDs are constrained devices, it is important that they perform discovery with the minimum energy consumption by intermittently sleeping and waking up. In this paper, we propose signature‐based and energy‐efficient relay discovery protocol (SERDP) using Zadoff–Chu sequences. Since Zadoff–Chu is a Constant Amplitude Zero Autocorrelation (CAZAC) sequence, we use the sequence for pointing the active slots of the devices within the proposed three‐stage original period structure. The probabilistic analysis and simulation results show that SERDP discovers more devices with less energy consumption as well as preventing collisions, as compared with the existing protocols.
Eating disorders treatment experiences and social support: Perspectives from service seekers in mainland China
Authors: Ma Ruofan , Zhang Manning , Oakman Jonathan M. , Wang Jiping , Zhu Siqi , Zhao Chendi , Hu Zhiyuan , Buchanan NiCole T.
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study explored treatment experiences and social support among individuals with eating disorders (EDs) in mainland China.

Method

Subscribers of a Chinese online social media platform (WeChat) focused on EDs were invited to complete a screening questionnaire that included the Eating Disorder Diagnostic Scale for the DSM‐5. Of the 116 questionnaire responses, 31 met inclusion criteria for follow‐up interviews. Individuals who never sought treatment were not eligible for follow‐up interviews, but provided brief explanations about why they did not seek treatment. All eligible participants (n = 31) completed a semi‐structured interview about their experiences with ED treatment and social support. Qualitative data from the interviews and survey responses regarding not seeking treatment were subjected to inductive data‐driven thematic analysis with deductive coding to illuminate treatment and social support experiences or reasons for not seeking treatment.

Results

Themes emerged from interviews revealed positive inpatient treatment experiences for anorexia nervosa, but negative outpatient treatment experiences, unaffordable care, and ineffective psychopharmacological treatments. Parents, friends, and partners were sources of social support, but participants largely felt misunderstood or blamed by these same entities. Shame, not recognizing ED as an illness, and financial constraints were listed as the primary reasons for not seeking treatment.

Discussion

The importance of hearing patients' perspectives, improving ED literacy in China, increasing knowledge of culturally specific manifestations of EDs, and developing culturally responsive services and dissemination of treatment resources are emphasized.
The trade‐off between investment in weapons and fertility is mediated through spermatogenesis in the leaf‐footed cactus bug Narnia femorata
Authors: Cavender Katelyn R. , Ricker Tessa A. , Lyon Mackenzie O. , Shelby Emily A. , Miller Christine W. , Moore Patricia J.
Published: June 2021

Males have the ability to compete for fertilizations through both precopulatory and postcopulatory intrasexual competition. Precopulatory competition has selected for large weapons and other adaptations to maximize access to females and mating opportunities, while postcopulatory competition has resulted in ejaculate adaptations to maximize fertilization success. Negative associations between these strategies support the hypothesis that there is a trade‐off between success at pre‐ and postcopulatory mating success. Recently, this trade‐off has been demonstrated with experimental manipulation. Males of the leaf‐footed cactus bug Narnia femorata use hind limbs as the primary weapon in male–male competition. However, males can drop a hind limb to avoid entrapment. When this autotomy occurs during development, they invest instead in large testes. While evolutionary outcomes of the trade‐offs between pre‐ and postcopulatory strategies have been identified, less work has been done to identify proximate mechanisms by which the trade‐off might occur, perhaps because the systems in which the trade‐offs have been investigated are not ones that have the molecular tools required for exploring mechanism. Here, we applied knowledge from a related model species for which we have developmental knowledge and molecular tools, the milkweed bug Oncopeltus fasciatus, to investigate the proximate mechanism by which autotomized N. femorata males developed larger testes. Autotomized males had evidence of a higher rate of transit amplification divisions in the spermatogonia, which would result more spermatocytes and thus in greater sperm numbers. Identification of mechanisms underlying a trade‐off can help our understanding of the direction and constraints on evolutionary trajectories and thus the evolutionary potential under multiple forms of selection.
Different life stage, different risks: Thermal performance across the life cycle ofSalmo truttaandSalmo salarin the face of climate change
Authors: Kärcher Oskar , Flörke Martina , Markovic Danijela
Published: June 2021

Extending assessments of climate change‐induced range shifts via correlative species distribution models by including species traits is crucial for conservation planning. However, comprehensive assessments of future distribution scenarios incorporating responses of biotic factors are poorly investigated. Therefore, the aim of our study was to extend the understanding about the combined usage of species traits data and species distribution models for different life stages and distribution scenarios. We combine global model predictions for the 2050s and thermal performances ofSalmo truttaandSalmo salarunder consideration of different life stages (adults, juveniles, eggs), timeframes (monthly, seasonally, yearly), and dispersal scenarios (no dispersal, free dispersal, restricted dispersal). We demonstrate that thermal performances of different life stages will either increase or decrease for certain time periods. Model predictions and thermal performances imply range declines and poleward shifts. Dispersal to suitable habitats will be an important factor mitigating warming effects; however, dams may block paths to areas linked to high performances. Our results emphasize enhanced inclusion of critical periods for species and proper dispersal solutions in conservation planning.
Role of Catalytic Materials on Conversion of Sulfur Species for Room Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Battery
Authors: Yang Zhenzhen , Xiao Ru , Zhang Xiaoyin , Wang Xin , Zhang Dong , Sun Zhenhua , Li Feng
Published: June 2021

Room temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na‐S) battery with high theoretical energy density and low cost has spurred tremendous interest, which is recognized as an ideal candidate for large‐scale energy storage applications. However, serious sodium polysulfide shutting and sluggish reaction kinetics lead to rapid capacity decay and poor Coulombic efficiency. Recently, catalytic materials capable of adsorbing and catalyzing the conversion of polysulfides are profiled as a promising method to improve electrochemical performance. In this review, the research progress is summarized that the application of catalytic materials in RT Na‐S battery. For the role of catalyst on the conversion of sulfur species, specific attention is focused on the influence factors of reaction rate during different redox processes. Various catalytic materials based on lightweight and high conductive carbon materials, including heteroatom‐doped carbon, metals and metal compounds, single‐atom and heterostructure, promote the reaction kinetic via lowered energy barrier and accelerated charge transfer. Additionally, the adsorption capacity of the catalytic materials is the key to the catalytic effect. Particular attention to the interaction between polysulfides and sulfur host materials is necessary for the exploration of catalytic mechanism. Lastly, the challenges and outlooks toward the desired design of efficient catalytic materials for RT Na‐S battery are discussed.
Sacubitril‐valsartan initiation in chronic heart failure patients impacts sleep apnea: the ENTRESTO‐SAS study
Authors: Jaffuel Dany , Nogue Erika , Berdague Philippe , Galinier Michel , Fournier Pauline , Dupuis Marion , Georger Frédéric , Cadars Marie‐Pierre , Ricci Jean‐Etienne , Plouvier Nathalie , Picard François , Puel Vincent , Mallet Jean‐Pierre , Suehs Carey M. , Molinari Nicolas , Bourdin Arnaud , Roubille François
Published: June 2021

Aims

Optimizing medical cardiac treatment for sleep apnoea (SA) in patients with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is an expert Grade C recommendation based on six studies encompassing a total of 67 patients only. Whether sacubitril–valsartan (SV), a cornerstone of HFrEF medical treatment, impacts SA is unknown and requires evaluation.

Methods and results

The ENTRESTO‐SAS trial is a six‐centre, prospective, open‐label real‐life cohort study (NCT02916160). Ambulatory patients eligible for SV (i.e. HFrEF adults who remain symptomatic despite optimal treatment) were evaluated before and after 3 months of SV (including nocturnal ventilatory polygraphy); 118 patients were final analysed [median age was 66 (IQ25–75: 56–73) years, 81.4% male, 36.5% New York Heart Association III–IV, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide level of 1564 (701–3376) ng/L, left ventricular ejection fraction of 30 (25–34)%, 60.7% ischaemic HFrEF, 97.5% initially treated with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers, 83.9% with beta‐blockers, 64.4% with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and 74.6% with diuretics]. Three groups were defined according to initial central/obstructive apnoea–hypopnoea indices (AHIs): G1 (n = 49, AHIcentral ≥ 5/h and AHIobstructive < 15/h); G2 (n = 27, AHIobstructive ≥ 15/h); and G3 (n = 42, AHIcentral < 5/h and AHIobstructive < 15/h). At 3 months, the AHI (main predefined outcome) decreased significantly by −7.10/h (IQ25–75: −16.10 to 0.40; P < 0.001) in G1 + G2 without positive airway pressure treatment (45 patients, median initial AHI of 24.20 (IQ25–75: 16.40–43.50)/h). Of these, 24.4% presented an AHI decrease ≥50% and 37.78% had a final AHI < 15/h (tendency for improvement from an initial value of 20%: P = 0.0574). For G1 patients (n = 37), AHI significantly decreased from a median of 22.90 (16.00–43.50)/h to 19.20 (12.70–31.10)/h (P = 0.002). For G2 patients (n = 8), AHI decreased from a median of 30.10 (26.40–47.60)/h to 22.75 (14.60–36.90)/h (statistically non‐significant, P = 0.059).

Conclusions

In this real‐life population, SV treatment for 3 months in SA patients is associated with a significant decrease in AHI. These results support the current guidelines that recommend first an optimization of the HFrEF treatment in patients with HFrEF and central SA. A potential positive airway pressure sparing effect merits further investigation.
Pequi Oil, a MUFA/Carotenoid‐Rich Oil, Exhibited Protective Effects against DSS‐Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Moreno Lauane G. , Evangelista‐Silva Paulo H. , Santos Edivânia C. , Prates Rodrigo P. , Lima Artenizia C. , Mendes Mateus F. , Ottone Vinícius O. , Ottoni Marcelo H. F. , Pereira Wagner F. , Melo Gustavo E. B. A. , Esteves Elizabethe A.
Published: June 2021

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) affect the gastrointestinal tract, and the imbalance of intestinal immune homeostasis can trigger them. Pequi oil (PO), a monounsaturated (MUFA) and carotenoid‐rich food with nutraceutical potential, could help reshape the intestinal immune response, ameliorating IBD outcomes. This study investigates the effects of a 28 days intake of PO on elements of the intestinal immune response of mice with DSS‐induced ulcerative colitis (disease activity index, colonic damage, inflammatory cells and markers). PO reduces body weight, colonic crypt and goblet cell losses and ameliorates diarrhea. In the colon, it increases γδT cells and secretory‐IgA and decreases CD8+T cells. In lymphoid organs, it reduces CD8+T cells. Moreover, it also reduces the IL‐17 and CRP in plasma. PO oil promotes a less cytotoxic response that may protect mice from immunological injuries caused by an IBD in the intestinal mucosa, improving the disease prognosis.

Practical applications: This study demonstrates that the intake of pequi oil contributes to the regulation of immune response and improves clinical and histological signs of DSS‐induced ulcerative colitis in mice. Its effects in cytotoxic cell reduction and other inflammatory markers and stimulation of regulatory cells, and preservation of mucus‐producing cells, provide news insights about the importance of the regular intake of this food to better prognosis of ulcerative colitis acute episodes. In addition, these findings encourage further studies with foods with a protective potential for the intestinal mucosa.
Effect of Steric Structure on the Mechanism of Antioxidant Activity of Alkyl Gallates in Soybean Oil Triacylglycerols—A Kinetic Approach
Authors: Delfanian Mojtaba , Sahari Mohammad Ali , Barzegar Mohsen , Ahmadi Gavlighi Hassan
Published: June 2021

From an interfacial phenomena standpoint, the effect of the alkyl chain length is evaluated on the mechanism of antioxidant activity of gallic acid ester derivatives (methyl, propyl, octyl, dodecyl, and stearyl gallates) in bulk phase oil. A combinational kinetic model is used to estimate the oxidation kinetic parameters, such as induction period, the maximum concentration of lipid hydroperoxides, and critical reverse micelle concentration. These kinetic parameters are estimated much better with the combinational model compared to the tangent method. The nonlinear behavior is observed for inhibitory activities of homologous series of antioxidants in soybean triacylglycerols. In terms of different kinetics parameters, including antioxidant effectiveness and activity, methyl gallate has the highest inhibitory effect during lipid peroxidation. Gallic acid and alkyl gallates are able to protect bulk oils against peroxidation (induction period > 336 h) in terms of the extent of their participation in the main reaction of chain termination and pro‐oxidative side reactions of chain initiation, and anti‐oxidative side reactions of chain propagation.

Practical Applications: This work explains the effect of the esterification in the inhibitory activity of alkyl gallates, mechanism action of alkyl gallates in bulk oil systems, antiradical potency as a function of the interfacial phenomena, and free radical chain mechanism, the impact of antioxidant activity on critical reverse micelle concentration of hydroperoxides. Moreover, in this study, it is confirmed that the combinational kinetic model can be employed as a reliable method for determining the oxidation kinetic parameters.
3D magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging reveals links between brain metabolites and multidimensional pain features in fibromyalgia
Authors: Lee Jeungchan , Andronesi Ovidiu C. , Torrado‐Carvajal Angel , Ratai Eva‐Maria , Loggia Marco L. , Weerasekera Akila , Berry Michael P. , Ellingsen Dan‐Mikael , Isaro Laura , Lazaridou Asimina , Paschali Myrella , Grahl Arvina , Wasan Ajay D. , Edwards Robert R. , Napadow Vitaly
Published: June 2021

Background

Fibromyalgia is a centralized multidimensional chronic pain syndrome, but its pathophysiology is not fully understood.

Methods

We applied 3D magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI), covering multiple cortical and subcortical brain regions, to investigate the association between neuro‐metabolite (e.g. combined glutamate and glutamine, Glx; myo‐inositol, mIno; and combined (total) N‐acetylaspartate and N‐acetylaspartylglutamate, tNAA) levels and multidimensional clinical/behavioural variables (e.g. pain catastrophizing, clinical pain severity and evoked pain sensitivity) in women with fibromyalgia (N = 87).

Results

Pain catastrophizing scores were positively correlated with Glx and tNAA levels in insular cortex, and negatively correlated with mIno levels in posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). Clinical pain severity was positively correlated with Glx levels in insula and PCC, and with tNAA levels in anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC), but negatively correlated with mIno levels in aMCC and thalamus. Evoked pain sensitivity was negatively correlated with levels of tNAA in insular cortex, MCC, PCC and thalamus.

Conclusions

These findings support single voxel placement targeting nociceptive processing areas in prior 1H‐MRS studies, but also highlight other areas not as commonly targeted, such as PCC, as important for chronic pain pathophysiology. Identifying target brain regions linked to multidimensional symptoms of fibromyalgia (e.g. negative cognitive/affective response to pain, clinical pain, evoked pain sensitivity) may aid the development of neuromodulatory and individualized therapies. Furthermore, efficient multi‐region sampling with 3D MRSI could reduce the burden of lengthy scan time for clinical research applications of molecular brain‐based mechanisms supporting multidimensional aspects of fibromyalgia.

Significance

This large N study linked brain metabolites and pain features in fibromyalgia patients, with a better spatial resolution and brain coverage, to understand a molecular mechanism underlying pain catastrophizing and other aspects of pain transmission. Metabolite levels in self‐referential cognitive processing area as well as pain‐processing regions were associated with pain outcomes. These results could help the understanding of its pathophysiology and treatment strategies for clinicians.
Interrogation of the perturbed gut microbiota in gouty arthritis patients through in silico metabolic modeling
Authors: Henson Michael A.
Published: June 2021

Recent studies have shown perturbed gut microbiota associated with gouty arthritis, a metabolic disease characterized by an imbalance between uric acid production and excretion. To mechanistically investigate altered microbiota metabolism associated with gout disease, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence data from stool samples of gout patients and healthy controls were computationally analyzed through bacterial community metabolic models. Patient‐specific community models constructed with the metagenomics modeling pipeline, mgPipe, were used to perform k‐means clustering of samples according to their metabolic capabilities. The clustering analysis generated statistically significant partitioning of samples into a Bacteroides‐dominated, high gout cluster and a Faecalibacterium‐elevated, low gout cluster. The high gout cluster was predicted to allow elevated synthesis of the amino acids D‐alanine and L‐alanine and byproducts of branched‐chain amino acid catabolism, while the low gout cluster allowed higher production of butyrate, the sulfur‐containing amino acids L‐cysteine and L‐methionine, and the L‐cysteine catabolic product H2S. By expanding the capabilities of mgPipe to provide taxa‐level resolution of metabolite exchange rates, acetate, D‐lactate and succinate exchanged from Bacteroides to Faecalibacterium were predicted to enhance butyrate production in the low gout cluster. Model predictions suggested that sulfur‐containing amino acid metabolism generally and H2S more specifically could be novel gout disease markers.
Chronic Reproductive Toxicity Thresholds for Northern Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus) Exposed to Perfluorohexanoic Acid (PFHxA) and a Mixture of Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS) and PFHxA
Authors: Dennis Nicole M. , Hossain Farzana , Subbiah Seenivasan , Karnjanapiboonwong Adcharee , Dennis Michael L. , McCarthy Chris , Heron Christopher G. , Jackson W. Andrew , Crago Jordan P. , Field Jennifer A. , Salice Christopher J. , Anderson Todd A.
Published: June 2021

Terrestrial toxicology data are limited for comprehensive ecotoxicological risk assessment of ecosystems contaminated by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) partly because of their existence as mixtures in the environment. This complicates logistical dose–response modeling and establishment of a threshold value characterizing the chronic toxicity of PFAS to ecological receptors. We examined reproduction, growth, and survival endpoints using a combination of hypothesis testing and logistical dose–response modeling of northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) exposed to perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) alone and to PFHxA in a binary mixture with perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) via the drinking water. The exposure concentration chronic toxicity value (CTV) representative of the lowest-observable–adverse effect level (LOAEL) threshold for chronic oral PFAS toxicity (based on reduced offspring weight and growth rate) was 0.10 ng/mL for PFHxA and 0.06 ng/mL for a PFOS:PFHxA (2.7:1) mixture. These estimates corresponded to an adult LOAEL average daily intake CTV of 0.0149 and 0.0082 µg × kg body weight–1 × d–1, respectively. Neither no-observable–adverse effect level threshold and representative CTVs nor dose–response and predicted effective concentration values could be established for these 2 response variables. The findings indicate that a reaction(s) occurs among the individual PFAS components present in the mixture to alter the potential toxicity, demonstrating that mixture affects avian PFAS toxicity. Thus, chronic oral PFAS toxicity to avian receptors represented as the sum of the individual compound toxicities may not necessarily be the best method for assessing chronic mixture exposure risk at PFAS-contaminated sites. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2601–2614. © 2021 SETAC
Collaborative Transmitters Management for Multi‐user Indoor VLC Systems
Authors: Younus Safwan Hafeedh
Published: June 2021

The main encounters face visible light communication (VLC) systems to provide high data rates for multiuser scenario are intersymbol interference (ISI) and cochannel interference (CCI). This work proposes delay adaptation technique (DAT) in conjunction with power adaptation technique (PAT) to improve the performance of the multiuser indoor VLC systems. The DAT is used to reduce the ISI while the PAT is utilized to reduce the CCI. To apply the DAT and PAT, each access point (AP) requires to share its information with the controller, which is responsible to manage the connection between user equipment (UEs) and APs. Therefore, each AP is given a control signal (an unmodulated unique tone signal). These control signals are utilized to set‐up the connection between APs and UEs (allocate each UE its best APs, which are APs that offer good connection links). Our proposed system performance is evaluated in a realistic room while considering the effect of diffuse reflections and CCI and using on‐off‐keying modulation. The results reveal that a remarkable improvement in the VLC system's performance with using DAT and PAD compared with the VLC system without using DAT and PAT.
The role of polyamines in regulating amino acid biosynthesis in rice grains
Authors: Xu Yunji , Jian Chaoqun , Li Ke , Tian Yinfang , Zhu Kuanyu , Zhang Weiyang , Wang Weilu , Wang Zhiqin , Yang Jianchang
Published: June 2021

Polyamines (PAs) are important endogenous plant growth regulators mediating the grain yield and quality in rice. This study was to clarify whether and how PAs regulate amino acid composition and content in milled rice. We grew three categories of rice cultivars differing in protein contents in the field and investigated the relationship of free‐PAs concentrations in filling grains with the activities of key enzymes involved in amino acid biosynthesis and with the amino acid contents of milled rice. Cultivars with higher concentrations of free‐Spermidine (Spd) and free‐Spermine (Spm) exhibited higher amino acid contents than the others. The concentrations of free‐Spd and free‐Spm were significantly and positively correlated with the contents of essential amino acids (EAAs), non‐essential amino acids (NEAAs), and total amino acids (TAAs) in milled rice, whereas the concentration of free‐Putrescine (Put) had no effect on these parameters. The concentrations of free‐Spd and free‐Spm were linearly associated with the activities of glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate synthetase (GOGAT), aspartate transaminase (AST), aspartate kinase (AK), and alanine transaminase (ALT), but only GOGAT, AST, and ALT were significantly and positively correlated with amino acid content. The application of exogenous Spd or Spm to panicles increased the activities of these key enzymes and amino acid contents, whereas the application of MGBG (an inhibitor of Spd and Spm synthesis) had the opposite effect. Applying Put had no significant effect on these traits. These results suggest that free‐Spd and free‐Spm enhance amino acid biosynthesis during grain filling in rice, primarily by improving the activities of GOGAT, AST, and ALT.
The impact of algorithmic trading on liquidity in futures markets: New insights into the resiliency of spreads and depth
Authors: Frino Alex , Gerace Dionigi , Behnia Masud
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the impact of algorithmic trading on the resiliency of bid‐ask spreads and market depth. We use a natural experiment provided by the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) for futures markets in 2012—the introduction of collocated facilities for FCM's. Previous research demonstrates that the change on the ASX in 2012 increased algorithmic trading and improved liquidity. We extend this study by documenting that the sensitivity of bid‐ask spreads and market depth to price volatility and trading activity declines after the introduction of co‐location. We also find that the speed of recovery of liquidity to large trades is more rapid after the introduction of colocated facilities. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that algorithmic trading reduces the time that limit orders are alive and the adjustment of quotes to new information and market volatility which in turn increases the resilience of liquidity.
World ocean annual mean absolute geostrophic velocity on marine geoid of EIGEN‐6C4 from WOA13
Authors: Chu Peter C.
Published: June 2021

This data set was established from two open sources: (a) geoid undulation (N) from EIGEN‐6C4, which is a static global combined gravity field model up to degree and order 2,190, and (b) ‘World ocean geostrophic velocity inverted from World Ocean Atlas 2013 with the P‐vector method’ (NCEI accession 0,121,576). With the given non‐positive values of N in the oceans, absolute geostrophic currents (u, v) are easily obtained on N with 1°×1° resolution from the second data set except the equatorial zone (5oS – 5oN) due to the non‐existence of the geostrophic balance. Altogether, the data set contains 15,868 (u, v) data pairs. The data set shows that the hypothetical situation that there would be no flow on the geoid does not exist.
Geological significance of the newly discovered Middle Permian ocean island basalt‐type gabbros in Ewulang, Nianqing‐Sumdo area, Tibet
Authors: Zhong Yao , Zhu Lidong , Yang Wenguang , Xie Long , Mai Yuanjun , Zhang Hongliang , Li Nan , Zhou Yu
Published: June 2021

Numerous research data have been obtained about the Sumdo Palaeo‐Tethys, but the reports on the occurrence of Permian Ocean islands are relatively scarce. Here, we present the zircon U–Pb geochronology, geochemistry, and in situ zircon Hf isotopic characteristics of the ocean island basalt (OIB)‐type gabbros from Ewulang in Nianqing‐Sumdo, Tibet. The zircon U–Pb age obtained from Ewulang OIB‐type gabbros is 263 Ma (the Middle Permian), representing the formation age of the gabbros. The geochemical characteristics of the samples show no contamination by crustal material. Meanwhile, all samples are enriched in light rare earths (LREEs) and large‐ionic lithophile elements (LILEs), which are similar to the typical OIB. In various geochemical discriminant diagrams, all samples fall into the fields of OIB and related tectonic settings, indicating that the rocks were formed in the oceanic island environment within the oceanic plate. Various geochemical indicators imply that the OIB‐type gabbros may originate from mantle plume and the in situ zircon εHf(t) values of Ewulang gabbros range from −0.34 to +4.30, suggesting that the magmas derived from an enriched mantle source. Combined with regional data and previous studies, this article further confirms that Sumdo Palaeo‐Tethys extends west to Nianqing‐Sumdo area and the Tangjia (Zhikong)‐Sumdo Palaeo‐Tethys was still an ocean basin with a certain scale during the Middle Permian.
The many ways astroglial connexins regulate neurotransmission and behavior
Authors: Mazaud David , Capano Anna , Rouach Nathalie
Published: June 2021

Astrocytes have emerged as major players in the brain, contributing to many functions such as energy supply, neurotransmission, and behavior. They accomplish these functions in part via their capacity to form widespread intercellular networks and to release neuroactive factors, which can modulate neurotransmission at different levels, from individual synapses to neuronal networks. The extensive network communication of astrocytes is primarily mediated by gap junction channels composed of two connexins, Cx30 and Cx43, which present distinct temporal and spatial expression patterns. Yet, astroglial connexins are also involved in direct exchange with the extracellular space via hemichannels, as well as in adhesion and signaling processes via unconventional nonchannel functions. Accumulating evidence indicate that astrocytes modulate neurotransmission and behavior through these diverse connexin functions. We here review the many ways astroglial connexins regulate neuronal activity from the molecular level to behavior.
Common abnormality of gray matter integrity in substance use disorder and obsessive‐compulsive disorder: A comparative voxel‐based meta‐analysis
Authors: Klugah‐Brown Benjamin , Jiang Chenyang , Agoalikum Elijah , Zhou Xinqi , Zou Liye , Yu Qian , Becker Benjamin , Biswal Bharat
Published: June 2021

The objective of the current study is to determine robust transdiagnostic brain structural markers for compulsivity by capitalizing on the increasing number of case‐control studies examining gray matter volume (GMV) alterations in substance use disorders (SUD) and obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). Voxel‐based meta‐analysis within the individual disorders and conjunction analysis were employed to reveal common GMV alterations between SUDs and OCD. Meta‐analytic coordinates and signed brain volumetric maps determining directed (reduced/increased) GMV alterations between the disorder groups and controls served as the primary outcome. The separate meta‐analysis demonstrated that SUD and OCD patients exhibited widespread GMV reductions in frontocortical regions including prefrontal, cingulate, and insular. Conjunction analysis revealed that the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) consistently exhibited decreased GMV across all disorders. Functional characterization suggests that the IFG represents a core hub in the cognitive control network and exhibits bidirectional (Granger) causal interactions with the striatum. Only OCD showed increased GMV in the dorsal striatum with higher changes being associated with more severe OCD symptomatology. Together the findings demonstrate robustly decreased GMV across the disorders in the left IFG, suggesting a transdiagnostic brain structural marker. The functional characterization as a key hub in the cognitive control network and casual interactions with the striatum suggest that deficits in inhibitory control mechanisms may promote compulsivity and loss of control that characterize both disorders.
Allogeneic stem cell transplant in non‐Hodgkin lymphomas: Still an indication?
Authors: Dreger Peter
Published: June 2021

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) used to play a defined role in the treatment of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). With the advent of modern targeted molecular therapies and immunotherapies, treatment standards at least for B‐cell lymphoma have undergone significant changes, thereby questioning the traditional role of alloHCT in these diseases. This paper attempts to describe the current place and the perspectives of alloHCT in the rapidly evolving treatment landscape of NHL.
What's new in peripheral T‐cell lymphomas
Authors: Luminari Stefano , Skrypets Tetiana
Published: June 2021

Peripheral T‐cell lymphomas (PTCLs) are a rare, heterogeneous group of hematological malignancies with extremely poor prognosis for almost all subtypes. The diverse clinicopathological features of PTCLs make accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and choice of optimal treatment strategies difficult. Moreover, the best therapeutic algorithms are still under debate due to the extrapolated approaches developed for B‐cell lymphomas and to the absence of few treatment protocol specifically developed for PTCLs. Some advances have been made with CD30 monoclonal antibody, mainly for anaplastic large‐cell lymphomas, with improvements in progression‐free survival and overall survival. Several new drugs are under evaluation in clinical trials, although not all the results are as encouraging as expected. In this review, we briefly present the most updated information on diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment strategies in PTCLs.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis: Version 2021
Authors: Gulati Nitya , Allen Carl E.
Published: June 2021

Children with Langerhnans cell histiocytosis (LCH) develop granulomatous lesions with characteristic clonal CD207+ dendritic cells that can arise as single lesions or life‐threatening disseminated disease. Despite the wide range of clinical presentations, LCH lesions are histologically indistinguishable based on severity of disease, and uncertain classification as an immune versus neoplastic disorder has historically challenged the development of optimal clinical strategies for patients with LCH. Recently, activating somatic mutations in MAPK pathway genes, most notably BRAFV600E, have been discovered in almost all cases of LCH. Further, the stage of myeloid differentiation in which the mutation arises defines the extent of disease and risk of developing LCH‐associated neurodegeneration. MAPK activation in LCH precursor cells drives myeloid differentiation, inhibits migration, and inhibits apoptosis, resulting in accumulation of resilient pathologic dendritic cells that recruit and activate T cells. Recurrent somatic mutations in MAPK pathway genes have also been identified in related histiocytic disorders: juvenile xanthogranuloma, Erdheim–Chester disease, and Rosai–Dorfman disease. New insights into pathogenesis support reclassification of these conditions as a myeloid neoplastic disorders. Continued research will uncover opportunities to identify novel targets and inform personalized therapeutic strategies based on cell of origin, somatic mutation, inherited risk factors, and residual disease.
New drugs and pharmacological interactions in real life
Authors: Stathis Anastasios
Published: June 2021

A high number of new drugs have entered clinical development and many of them have recently been approved for patients with lymphoid malignancies. The availability of new drugs offers additional treatment options, but it also requires particular attention for the emergence of adverse events. In addition, new drugs may also have interactions with other drugs, which could further increase the risk of toxicities or result in decreased efficacy. Here we review potential drug interactions for nonchemotherapy new drugs approved for patients with lymphoid malignancies.
Statistical analysis on the stratification effects of bioconvective EMHD nanofluid flow past a stretching sheet: Application in theranostics
Authors: Areekara Sujesh , Sabu Alappat Sunny , Mathew Alphonsa , Saravanan Balagangadharan
Published: June 2021

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are highly recognized for their diverse biomedical applications. The present study aims to numerically and statistically study the stratification effects of bioconvective electromagnetohydrodynamic flow past a stretching sheet using water‐based CNT. The current study, with applications ranging from biomedical imaging, targeted drug delivery, and cancer therapy, provides a theoretical perspective that is beneficial in biomedical engineering. The mathematically modeled system of partial differential equations is then transmuted into a system of ordinary differential equations using apposite transformations, which are then resolved numerically usingbvp5c(MATLAB built‐in function) algorithm. The impacts of influential parameters on concentration, velocity, microbial concentration, temperature, and physical quantities are illustrated with the aid of graphs and tables. Descending electric field parameter and ascending magnetic field parameter retard the velocity profile, which helps in improving the efficiency of targeted drug delivery and biomedical imaging. Further, statistical techniques, like, correlation, the slope of linear regression, probable error, and multiple linear regression, are employed in scrutinizing the consequence of influential parameters on physical quantities and an excellent agreement is observed between the numerical and statistical results. It is noted that the heat transfer rate is positively correlated with electric and magnetic field parameters.
The assessment of representational risk (ARR): Development and psychometric properties of a new coding system for assessing risk in the parent–infant relationship
Authors: Sleed Michelle , Isosävi Sanna , Fonagy Peter
Published: June 2021

There are few clinically valid tools that can be used to assess potential parent–infant relational risk. This study describes the development and initial validation of the assessment of representational risk (ARR) coding system to be applied to the parent development interview (Slade, A., Aber, J. L., Bresgi, I., Berger, B., & Kaplan, M. (2004). The Parent Development Interview – Revised. Unpublished protocol. New York, NY: The City University of New York.) for assessing potential risk in caregivers’ representations of their infant, themselves as parents, and their relationship. The ARR was developed and validated in three samples in England. A review of the literature informed the selection of 10 items. It had a three‐factor structure that was used to inform subscales: hostile, helpless, and narcissistic caregiving representations. The subscales and total risk scores showed good criterion validity for discriminating between high and low risk samples and good concurrent validity with measures of parental psychopathology and parent–infant interaction. The ARR is a potentially valuable coding system for identifying risk in early attachment relationships.
A flexible metallic TiC nanofiber/vertical graphene 1D/2D heterostructured as active electrocatalyst for advanced Li–S batteries
Authors: Zhang Yongshang , Zhang Peng , Zhang Shijie , Wang Zheng , Li Neng , Silva S. Ravi P. , Shao Guosheng
Published: June 2021

The realistic application of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries has been severely hindered by the sluggish conversion kinetics of polysulfides (LiPS) and inhomogeneous deposition of Li2S at high sulfur loading and low electrolyte/sulfur ratio (E/S). Herein, a flexible Li–S battery architecture based on electrocatalyzed cathodes made of interfacial engineered TiC nanofibers and in situ grown vertical graphene are developed. Integrated 1D/2D heterostructured electrocatalysts are realized to enable highly improved Li+ and electron transportation together with significantly enhanced affinity to LiPS, which effectively accelerate the conversion kinetics between sulfur species, and thus induce homogeneous deposition of Li2S in the catalyzed cathodes. Consequently, highly active electro‐electrocatalysts‐based cells exhibit remarkable rate capability at 2C with a high specific capacity of 971 mAh g−1. Even at ultra‐high sulfur loading and low E/S ratio, the battery still delivers a high areal capacity of 9.1 mAh cm−2, with a flexible pouch cell being demonstrated to power a LED array at different bending angles with a high capacity over 100 cycles. This work puts forward a novel pathway for the rational design of effective nanofiber electrocatalysts for cathodes of high‐performance Li–S batteries.